Leading global toy company Mattel introduced a plastic fashion doll named “Barbie” in 1959. Who would have known that 65 years after its launch, Barbie would become a force of nature? From a simple doll, it soon became a cultural and social phenomenon to the point that today Barbie is one of the most celebrated and beloved brands. The Barbie craze is at fever pitch throughout the world.

Here’s some exciting news for all ardent fans of Barbie in Canada. Mattel is bringing Barbie’s ’57 Chevy Corvette for the first time to the Canadian International in 2024, which will be held from February 16 to 25 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Inspired by the doll’s iconic pink Corvette in 2023’s blockbuster Barbie movie, Barbie’s ’57 Chevy Corvette will be the centre of the Mattel display. The stunning convertible, complete with its eye-catching pink paint job and a curvaceous retro silhouette, is ready to head to Barbie Land.

The life-sized Corvette features a 283 cubic-inch V8 engine. Action Vehicle Engineering. developed the interior, including the dashboard, instrument cluster, unique upholstery on the seats, door panels and carpets. One11Ink created the bespoke wrap. Captivatingly, Mattel is also set to feature life-size versions of four classic Hot Wheels toy cars ― the Deora II, the 1967 Chevrolet Camaro and both the green and grey Loop Coupes.

“We are excited to welcome Mattel back to the show with Barbie and Hot Wheels, two beloved brands with an appeal that spans generations,” said Jason Campbell, general manager of the AutoShow. “Showcasing full-sized versions inspired by some of their iconic cars is a chance for adults to reconnect with their childhood and share that passion with their children.”

Deora II, one of four “Garage of Legends” cars, is one of Hot Wheels’ most distinctive designs, created as a tribute to the innovative spirit and uniqueness of the original Hot Wheels in honour of the stunt brand’s 35th anniversary. The original Deora, one of the original 16 Hot Wheels, made its debut in 1968.

At the display attendees can also see the 1967 Chevrolet Camaro. Despite being Hot Wheels’ first vehicle produced in 1:64 scale, the classic design is still larger than life. Two variants of the vehicle were produced for the 2017 Hot Wheels commercial, “The Drive” ― one intended for interior shots and the other for high-performance action sequences. The last on the list are Loop Coupes, which were designed are designed to defy gravity. Professional drivers raced two life-size Hot Wheels cars through the Hot Wheels Double Dare Loop, in a stunt that broke the Guinness World Record for fastest automobiles ever built.

This show will be a treat for all Hot Wheels and Barbie lovers. Donna Polimac, senior manager of marketing for Mattel, said, “Barbie and Hot Wheels are both beloved brands that have ignited passion and imagination across generations. We are thrilled for the AutoShow to be the first Canadian pit stop to welcome a vehicle inspired by Barbie’s legendary Corvette! Most importantly, for all car lovers, car collectors and guests alike, to reengage with the toys they love through a new lens and for young children to be reminded they can dream of becoming anything.”

And that’s not all ― a life-sized Barbie Box that visitors can enter and celebrate the Barbie way of life will also be a part of the Barbie exhibit. Mattel will also be giving out limited-edition die-cast cars, available only during the event, to some lucky Hot Wheels buyers at the AutoShow’s Toys“R”Us pop-up shop. If you are an avid lover of Barbie or Hot Wheels, the 2024 Canadian International AutoShow This year’s AutoShow in downtown Toronto the best place to experience your two favourite brands!

The post A treat for all Barbie lovers Barbie’s ’57 Chevy Corvette Heading To Canada For The First Time appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

Waking up in the morning only to find an empty driveway where your car used to be is a feeling that never fades. Your mind scrambles as you attempt to figure out how this could have happened and why. When you ultimately come to grips with the fact that a stranger or a group of strangers felt confident enough to trespass onto your property and steal your vehicle, it leaves you feeling helpless, frustrated and, most of all, violated.

Guess what? You are not alone. If you are a resident of Vaughan or the York Region, then likely a family member, a colleague or a dear friend has had this happen to them.

According to crime statistics compiled by the York Regional Police (YRP), the year-to-date incidence of theft of motor vehicles is up 78.2 per cent from last year, from 715 to 1,274 vehicles stolen. Of note, keyless ignition vehicles are now the prime targets of car thieves. That is why Mayor Steven Del Duca of Vaughan and his constituents announced a plan to distribute 13,000 Faraday pouches to Vaughan residents.

HOW IT’S STOLEN …
1. Vehicle order is placed.
2. Crews scout communities.
3. Vehicle is found and residence is staked out.
4. Vehicle is stolen and delivered to transport crew.
5. Tracker and plate are removed and loaded onto a transport truck.
6. Delivered to a warehouse to be loaded onto cargo containers.
7. Shipped to Africa and Europe.
8. Unloaded and sold by crime groups.

Across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Hamilton area communities, we have seen not only brazen methods such as kicking down front doors to steal the keys commonly placed near the front entrance, but also sophisticated technological methods known as “relay attacks,” wherein these criminals use vulnerabilities in keyless fobs to steal vehicles swiftly. They can read the radio frequency of the key fobs in a house and relay that frequency to a car on the driveway, tricking the car into thinking the key fob is next to or in the vehicle. The entire process takes only minutes.

The newly released Faraday pouches are designed to block thieves from reading radio frequencies in car key fobs.

Mayor Del Duca says, “The fob protectors are the first tangible initiative we have done for the city to help provide our residents with a tool to prevent auto theft.”

While some see the launch of the fob protectors to be a swift response, is it really?

More importantly, why is Vaughan the hot-spot target area for auto theft?

“Because it is a target-rich environment,” says York Regional Police Deputy Chief Alvaro Almeida. The seasoned officer with 35 years of law enforcement experience believes that due to York Region’s affluence, particularly in the southern region, there is a higher ratio of the desired vehicles for thieves. “The more affluent the community, the more targeted they are as opposed to thieves driving into smaller areas where the target vehicles are not as plentiful,” says Deputy Chief Almeida.

While affluence is a factor, vulnerability goes hand in hand with being unaware.

“The biggest danger is when the public is uneducated and unaware of these risks, which is why we’ve posted many public messages, both on our YouTube channel and in our community safety data portal, to slow down these criminals,” says Deputy Chief Almeida.

Another question is why certain makes of cars are being targeted, i.e., Dodge, Lexus, Toyota and Land Rover. To answer why these are among the most frequently stolen vehicles according to the YRP, consider where they are headed.

The YRP has reported that a large percentage of these vehicles are being stolen for international export. In other words, this is a big business with serious money to be made.

There is an international demand for certain vehicles and the ports are receiving these vehicles, which are being purchased by organized crime groups.

“THE POLICE ARE DOING AN INCREDIBLE JOB, BUT THE MAJORITY OF ALL THESE CRIMINALS ARE REPEAT OFFENDERS. WE NEED STRONGER PENALTIES AND WE NEED TO FIX THE BROKEN BAIL SYSTEM.”

“Another important consideration is it’s easy to procure parts in certain countries where they end up. Especially for gas vehicles, which is why there are not a lot of hybrid vehicles being stolen,” says Deputy Chief Almeida.

In response to international demand for stolen vehicles, Mayor Del Duca says, “We have begun an advocacy campaign with the federal and provincial governments geared toward helping us by increasing the number of inspections at the borders for exports.”

Yes, the YRP has relationships with foreign law enforcement agencies, but what is the extent of that relationship?

“Our investigations’ focus is on what we can establish here and whom we can bring to justice in Canada. We may be able to provide intel to a foreign partner and say, ‘One of your citizens has a criminal organization that’s involved in importing stolen vehicles from North America,’ but nothing can be done to force the investigation further. They are vested in protecting their citizens,” says Deputy Chief Almeida.

So, as vehicle owners, we must take matters into our own hands. What can we do to better protect ourselves and our vehicles before they leave our driveways, let alone are shipped halfway across the world?

Joe Formusa, from the popular Instagram account , a volunteer member of York Regional Police and a community safety consultant dedicated to providing crime prevention tips and statistics to residents across the GTA, says, “When it comes to crime, there’s no single solution. The Faraday bags are great. But that’s one of 25 different things we should be doing. When it comes to crime, the more layers and hurdles you have in place to prevent crime, the better.”

Understanding your own responsibility to protect your property and taking the necessary measures will significantly increase your chances of not becoming a victim of auto theft. The responsibility to protect our homes with fire alarms and fire extinguishers is no different from the responsibility to protect our vehicles.

For Formusa, you are better off being proactive than reactive. “Everybody needs to do their part.”

This means locking all doors and windows, installing exterior lights that are on all night, security cameras that monitor all access points of your residence, staying tuned in to community warnings from the police, using a steering wheel lock and, arguably the most essential, setting up a perimeter motion alarm system.

“Knowing when criminals are there is critical. Perimeter motion detection is a device that notifies you instantly when there’s motion on your property. Before they even get to your vehicle or your doors, you’re going to be notified that they’re there. This is critical because you could set off your car or home alarm and call 911 while the crime is in progress. Reporting a crime in progress is treated differently than reporting it hours after. They will prioritize their response,” says Formusa.

Roughly six months ago, Formusa found himself in that exact situation. As a result of a home renovation, one of his cars had to be parked on the driveway instead of in its usual spot in the garage. He was notified by his perimeter motion detection system that somebody was in his driveway. He called 911 and set off his alarms, the trespasser ran and was arrested by the police soon after. The problem is, most times, these thieves are released the next morning and are soon back on the street doing the same thing.

In May 2023, investigators with the YRP, in conjunction with Peel Regional Police and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), began an investigation of a car theft ring operating out of the York Region and were able to identify three suspects.

After the three were arrested, upon the execution of eight search warrants the police discovered they had uncovered a multimillion-dollar car theft operation. Thirty-one stolen vehicles were recovered, valued at $2.8 million. Police also seized $30,000 in cash, police scanner devices, key re-programmers and more than 100 master keys.

The three men are now facing more than 80 charges, including motor vehicle theft. One of the suspects was out on bail for charges related to a vehicle theft at the time of their arrest, according to police.

“The police are doing an incredible job, but the majority of all these criminals are repeat offenders. We need stronger penalties, and we need to fix the broken bail system. Don’t you think somebody who has been arrested multiple times for the same crime should be denied bail at that point?” says Formusa.

Mayor Del Duca recently wrote to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau calling on the federal government to urgently modernize Canada’s bail system to ensure that dangerous offenders are kept off our streets for committing crimes ranging from gun violence to home break-ins and auto thefts.

“The solution to this problem is a whole-system approach that involves our judicial system and involves our politicians getting on board. It is not a police issue alone. Even the auto and the insurance industry understand they have a role in this,” says Deputy Chief Almeida.

The fact of the matter is we see the police arrest them and then the system releases them. The relatively low penalties that these thieves face under the current conditions in the courts do not deter them from going back out and committing the same crime. If a comprehensive plan of action is needed for the entire justice system — that is, at the provincial and municipal levels — then what are we waiting for?

Auto theft will worsen if we delay the changes that need to be made. Enough is enough.

The post Where The F@#% Is My Car? appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

The ultimate test of the handling and manoeuvrability of any high-performance vehicle is how it handles on ice and snow, and in January Mercedes-Benz staged the most exciting test drive on a racetrack made of ice in Gimli, Man., the very heart of Canada’s frozen north.

In the middle of deepest and darkest winter, Gimli wind chills can reach -40 C. That at is where dangerous cold lives, an environment few encounter on this planet, where the snow squeaks, the ice is like concrete and poured liquid freezes before it hits the ground. It was the ideal location for the custom-built racetrack, created on a frozen lake. The thickness of the ice on this lake reaches three feet, which is safe enough to park a commercial airliner and perfect for testing the handling of Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG vehicles featuring 4MATIC all-wheel drive.

The Mercedes 4MATIC all-wheel drive features a four-wheel drive system designed to increase traction in slippery conditions and maximize vehicle handling through winter storms and around tight corners. Its fully integrated technology reacts instantly to any driving scenario, with each wheel responding individually for advanced driving control. This more advanced system comes with reliable quality and engineering to ensure the superior performance you would expect Mercedes-Benz to deliver.

The custom-built racetrack featured multiple twists and turns, becoming almost a frozen Le Mans. Through this exclusive test drive, Mercedes- Benz 4MATIC proved its worth and innovative engineering, with drivers reporting expert handling, traction and the ability to manoeuvre these extreme conditions of tight corners and slippery surfaces.

It’s doubtful whether regular drivers will ever encounter such ultimate winter driving conditions, but in proving its gripping control in such an extreme environment, the Mercedes- Benz 4MATIC all-wheel drive system certainly demonstrates great confidence that it can handle whatever Old Man Winter may choose to throw our way.

The post Mercedes-benz 4matic All-wheel Drive Proves Itself In Winter’s Toughest Conditions appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

The Hyundai Palisade puts the “you” in a premium luxury SUV. That is, you and up to seven others, with generous and flexible configurations for up to eight passengers through three rows of seating in Hyundai’s largest-ever vehicle to date. The Palisade has 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 87 cubic feet with both rows folded down.

The Palisade is available in base SE, mid-level SEL, upscale SEL-Plus, the luxury Limited and top-of-the-line Ultimate. Each Palisade trim level offers standard features such as one-touch second-row seat access, and select trim levels offer a leather-wrapped steering wheel and transmission knob, power sunroof and dual moonroof with shade, full-colour Heads-Up Display, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Sirius XM Satellite Radio and HD Radio, as well as fun features like an in-vehicle intercom, eight USB ports and up to 14 cup holders.

Powering all Palisade models is a 3.8-L Atkinson Cycle Gasoline Direct Injection V-6 engine with Idle Stop and Go. As expected from Hyundai, the Palisade features the latest in next-generation automotive technology to make driving safer and more efficient, including Safe Exit Assist, which prevents children and pets from accidentally being locked inside the vehicle by using audio and visual alerts.

The Palisade also features Cross-Traffic Alert with Collison-Avoidance Assist, Forward Collison-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control and Blind Spot Collison Avoidance Assist, as well as the BlueLink in-vehicle telematics system and active noise cancellation.

Whether you need a vehicle to carry the team to the game or to spend a family day enjoying the countryside, Hyundai Palisade is the next-generation luxury SUV that should make every test-drive list.

The post Hyundai Palisade – Making a Big Impression as the Next-Generation SUV appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

What happens when you take the luxury of a Bentley mixed with the sportiness of a Maserati? You get the incredible compact luxury sport sedan — the Genesis G70.

The company just announced the all-new advancements for the 2020 vehicle lineup, including wheel designs and upgrades, as well as higher performance engine options.

Speaking of wheel upgrades, the new G70 will feature 19-inch wheels for all-season usage, while revamping the previous graphite pantone 18-inch base with a silver coat. In previous editions, the 19-inch wheel was only used during the warm summer months, but now the vehicle sports the larger bases, creating an opulent component.

Brand-loyal customers will also be pleased, as Genesis has announced the vehicle’s new 3.3T Prestige version of the G70. This variant gladly marries the twin-turbocharged 3.3-Litre V-6 engine and the 3.3T Sport edition, creating a luxurious sport car. This new edition will contain a napa leather interior that customers can enjoy, choosing from five colour options.

For those wanting even more options and power, the G70 is available in two different powertrains, including a 2-L turbocharged I4. This variant features a four-cylinder engine, 252-horsepower and a strong torque of 260 pounds per foot.

2020 Genesis G70 Powertrain Options

G70 2.0T Advanced: eight-speed automatic transmission

G70 2.0T Sport: six-speed manual transmission

G70 2.0T Elite: eight-speed automatic transmission

G70 2.0T Prestige: eight-speed automatic transmission

G70 3.3T Prestige: eight-speed automatic transmission

G70 3.3T Sport: eight-speed automatic transmission

The second option is the 3.3-L twin-turbocharged V-6 boasting 365-hp and 376 pounds per foot of torque. This variant creates an advanced power-to-weight ratio and tops out at a top speed of 270 kilometres per hour (168 miles per hour), controlled by an all- wheel-drive, eight-speed automatic transmission.

Both guarantee the classy and sporty Genesis driving experience.

The 2020 Genesis G70 starts at a low $42,000 and comes with the renowned Genesis at Home Concierge Service. This service is specific to Genesis customers, as it comes with complimentary scheduled maintenance, Genesis Connected Services, map and digital updates and more.

To learn more about Genesis and the 2020 G70, visit the company’s website at

The post Genesis G70 – Introducing the 2020 Lineup appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

Luxury, fashion-forward and class. These are the perfect words to describe Lincoln Motor Company’s newest midsize sport utility vehicle (SUV) and its 2019 edition, the Lincoln Nautilus. This latest model, which includes Ford’s newest technology bundle option, the Co-Pilot360, adds to the brand’s lineup of luxury vehicles and joins the ranks of the MKC, Continental, Navigator and MKZ.

The Nautilus sports Lincoln’s newest turbocharged engine, which features technological advancements such as direct injection and dual variable camshaft timing. These evolutions in the company’s engine options provide strength in performance and ability, incorporating a 335-horsepower (hp) output, along with 380 lb.-ft. of torque in the 2.7-Litre engine. The smaller 2-L, four-cylinder engine distributes 250-hp, and both options include an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Nautilus allows for drivers to accomplish 12.0 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres for highway driving.

Lincoln has also stepped up its internal driving technology features such as its Blind Spot Information detection system, which assists drivers by alerting them of oncoming vehicles while changing lanes and of vehicle proximity while driving and parking. Similar to other automotive manufacturers, the company has implemented emergency braking to create a safe environment by reducing collisions, as well as systems to keep vehicles in the centre of the lane while oncoming traffic approaches. Additional technology featured in the Nautilus are 4G Wi-Fi connectivity, wireless charging spots, touchscreen adaptivity (including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for ease of use) and the Lincoln-specific Revel® sound system.

This new model in the Lincoln repertoire has also brought forth an element of comfort with class. Not only does the exterior of the SUV exude approachability through the swift lines intricately cut into the design, but comfort can also be felt while in the vehicle itself, thanks to the Ultra Comfort seats for the driver and “co-pilot.” These seats feature 22 adjustment options, including lower-back massages, heating and air conditioning.

The interior design of the Nautilus, the Lincoln Black Label Gala edition, is inspired by the fashionable New York Met Gala. This can be seen in the rich royal colours of the carmine and onyx leather. Passengers will also catch glimpses of the Nouveau Armor aluminum accents, adding notes of class in the darker areas. Two additional options for owner personalization are available: Chalet and Thoroughbred, both intrinsically deep in hues and rich in heritage. Along with the beautifully toned attributes, passengers will be able to view each and every skyline during their drive, courtesy of the panoramic Vista Roof.

Visit the Lincoln website to learn more about the Lincoln Nautilus and the entire Lincoln Motor Company lineup.

GENERAL SPECS
Engine & transmission: twin-turbocharged V-6
Power: 335-hp
Torque: 380 lb.-ft.
Fuel economy: 12.0 L/100 km (city) 9.6 L/100 km (highway)

www.lincoln.com

Written By Shaun Melady

The post Lincoln Introduces Its Newest Midsize SUV: The 2019 Nautilus appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

Every generation has its own spirit, and every next generation reshapes that spirit into its own vision of the future. For those who live life in the fast lane, meet the 2019 Acura RDX, the all-new generation of Acura, bringing its industry-leading passion, performance and power to yet another level.

With bold, aggressive lines in its styling and low in its stance, the 2019 Acura RDX features a 272-horsepower, turbocharged VTEC 2.0-L direct injection engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, and the next generation of super-handling, torque-vectoring All Wheel Drive to command and control every corner.

A driver-centric command centre features an all-new next-generation True Touchpad Interface (TTI) with a 10.2-inch centre display, making the in-car experience more personal, responsive, intuitive and interactive than ever.

The 2019 Acura RDX supports Apple CarPlay and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, connecting you without delay to all of your smart devices. It even features an all-new natural-language voice recognition system to eliminate endless repetition of commands.

The exterior features the distinctive Diamond Pentagon grille and an unsurpassed lighting system with LED lighting, including seven LED lamps per headlight and identifiable “dragon tail” rear lighting.

This power, performance and technology are enveloped in a luxurious cockpit-style interior, with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and rich available leather seats and brushed aluminum and burl wood cabin finishes and accents. The ultra-wide panoramic moonroof extends into the backseat, bringing you and your passengers even closer to the stars.

Guests of Maple Acura in Vaughan got to experience the all-new redesigned 2019 Acura RDX first-hand at the official launch party on July 19. With cocktails, catered food, music and surprises, it was a fun-filled evening for all who attended.

MAPLE ACURA
111 Auto Vaughan Dr., Vaughan, Ont.
905-832-1277

photos by 2018 Honda North America

The post The All-New 2019 Acura RDX: Luxury within Power and Performance appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

Test Driven and Experienced by Yena Yoo

Driving out to Whispering Springs, we had the opportunity to truly test out this incredible vehicle.

Although many of us may not be accustomed to driving a car this size it becomes natural very quickly — in fact, we came to relish the amount of space that the Navigator provides. With seating for up to seven passengers this car is perfect for big and small families, and with two rows of folding-down seats you’d be hard-pressed to find something you can’t fit in the back.

This luxury SUV has incredible features, like the panoramic Vista Roof, that outshine what’s available in other large SUVs. The interior itself was beyond our wildest expectations. With 12 different power outlets, a wireless charging pad in the middle console and a Wi-Fi hot spot, you won’t find yourself disconnected from civilization, even if you’re off on a camping trip.

The seats have also been revamped to heighten the interior. In the rear Lincoln has included tilt-and-slide functionality to make it easier to get into the backseat and in the front you can opt for Perfect Position Seats with Active Motion Massage — something we really enjoyed using on our drive out to Whispering Springs!

When we drove the Navigator we were even able to have information, like the time, the temperature and your current speed displayed on the windshield, thanks to the heads-up display. This helps alleviate the need to glance down or around the car. It can even show you directions if you’ve input a location into the map. This was really helpful in navigating our way up to the retreat.

Upon arriving, it was as though we’d come across a hidden gem in the forest. As the trees cleared in front of us it felt like we were in a fairytale as we saw the expansive property ahead. We were taken aback by the view! The lodge-inspired Guest Pavilion, a pool and hot tub, a fire pit and the Guest Lounge and Bar are luxurious amenities we certainly didn’t expect.

Whispering Springs was an oasis of relaxation in the forest. After arriving, we were escorted to our own private luxury tent on a secluded site. Not only was it spacious, comfortable and fully furnished, but it also came equipped with running water and electricity, making it a home away from home. The balcony attached to our tent allowed us to truly appreciate the stunning views surrounding us as we sat each morning with our coffee.

We were also provided with our own gourmet breakfast basket each morning, full of delectable pastries and breakfast treats. As the day progressed we were given a personalized itinerary that included activities like outdoor yoga, massages and pedal boating. As the day came to a close we were treated to a gourmet dinner made from the finest ingredients as well as live music and s’mores around the campfire.

During the day, the retreat’s location also gave us the opportunity to test out some of the Navigator’s other features. For example, the SUV’s six Drive Modes, which are designed to help you with different terrains and driving conditions. Whether you select “slippery” or “deep climb” the Navigator will ensure a smooth ride all with one turn of a knob.

The same way that Whispering Springs bridges the gap between camping and comfort, the Lincoln Navigator has broken down the barrier between driving and comfort.

The Lincoln brand is focused on customization, uniqueness and personalization, and the expansive array of features in the 2018 Lincoln Navigator Reserve means you can create the car you’ve always dreamed of. This innovative and stylish vehicle is definitely one to watch.

The post Lincoln Navigator appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

Just last year the company opened the Porsche Sport Driving School, and this year have re-named it the Porsche Track Experience. “The main difference this year is that they’ve established higher levels,” says Patrick Saint-Pierre, the Public Relations Manager at Porsche Cars Canada Ltd. “A lot of people came in last year and actually would like to go to the next level, so they really want to hone their driving skills [and] the new programs within the program allow for that.”

Now along with the Warm-Up training that runs for half a day and their Precision program that runs for two days, you can also attend two-day programs for Performance and Master training.

Porsche Cars Canada Ltd. hosted an exclusive event for media representatives to come get a taste of what’s on offer with their new and improved experience. City Life’s very own co-founder and creative director, Fernando Zerillo, was in attendance.

This event not only provided the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, but it gave participants the opportunity to sit inside some of Porsche’s renowned vehicles and give them a spin around the track at the Driver Development Track at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.

“Track experience is about experiencing what a sports car [really is], what you can do with it, how you can heighten your driving capabilities,” says Marc Ouayoun, president and CEO of Porsche Cars Canada Ltd. The goal of this program is to allow drivers to attain their own goals while enhancing their driving skills, even in their day-to-day life.

Drivers were able to go through various simulations that will help them hone their driving capabilities. For instance a skid-pad exercise where plastic was put over top of the back tires, simulating ice, as well as a precision course that has drivers got through a slalom style course and then drive straight ahead towards a very precious braking area in which they had to stop the car.

Driving is not all about going fast and making a mark, it is also about understanding your vehicle and what it can do as well as your own capabilities. “Testing the limits of your car and the driver can really help you out of some unpleasant, and even dangerous, road situations,” says Zerillo. “It’s not always about speed… we practiced best braking and avoiding techniques.”

Porsche is re-defining what it means to drive a car, as they not only provide luxury vehicles but also give their drivers an outlet through which they can truly be in touch with that car.

The post Porsche Track Experience appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

2017 Honda Civic Type R

This is the car you buy when you land your first big job. Honda calls their Civic Type R “a race car for the road,” and rightfully so. This Civic looks like it should be in the lineup of the next Fast and Furious movie with its black and red aluminum-alloy wheels and triple-centre exhausts that capture the soul of the speedway while controlling the exhaust tone. The skirt package, consisting of front, side and rear spoilers and a red-hot style line, was inspired by the modern racetrack. It has an aggressive rear wing spoiler which is aimed to keep the Civic Type R grounded by producing downforce for better handling and control. Under the hood you’ll find a 2.0-Litre, 16-valve VTEC turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque and a 6-speed manual transmission that has rev-match control — this is arguably one of the best Civics the brand has come out with in years. Honda didn’t just aim to make heads turn when you pull into the parking lot at work; safety was just as much of a priority as style. Some of the better interior features are the multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines and driver-assisted technology. Navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a 540-watt/12-speaker stereo are all standard, making this the perfect vehicle for the millennial that doesn’t plan to settle down anytime soon.

CL Young professional approval rating  (4/5)

General Specs

• 4 doors
• 4 passengers
• front-wheel drive
• 10.6/8.3-Litre/
• 100 kilometres city/hwy
• 2.0-L Direct Injection
• DOHC VTEC turbocharged
• 16-valve 4-cylinder engine
• 306 horsepower
• 295 lb-ft torque

2017 Honda Pilot Touring

This three-row, all-wheel-drive crossover might just be the reason most parents are switching from minivans to SUVs. It has great functionality, thanks to the versatile interior, and is a smooth and steady ride. With its light off-road ability and the capacity to tow 2,268 kg, you’ve basically got a more attractive, taller and tougher minivan.

CL Young family approval rating (5/5)

General Specs

• 4 doors
• 7 passengers
• all-wheel drive
• 12.4/9.3-L/100 km city/hwy
• 3.5-L, 24-valve,Direct Injection, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine
• 280 hp
• 262 lb-ft torque

2018 Acura TLX

So, you’re finally past the minivan stage because the kids are older, but they aren’t quite off your hands yet … Enter the Acura TLX. It’s sophisticated for a professional like yourself and has comfy seating and space for your teenagers. With its new sporty look and classy presence, the TLX is definitely the car you want to drive next.

CL Young business executive approval rating (3.5/5)

General Specs

• • 4 doors
  • 5 passengers
  • front or all-wheel drive
  • 10.0/7.1-L/100 km city/hwy
  • 2.4-L, 16-valve, Direct Injection DOHC, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine
  • 206 hp
  • 182 lb-ft torque

  The post Keys to My Rides — Honda Civic Type R, Honda Pilot Touring & Acura TLX appeared first on City Life Toronto Lifestyle Magazine.

  ]]> /auto/2017-honda-civic-type-r-2018-acura-tlx-honda-pilot-touring/feed/ 0