The new 2022 Porsche Cayenne Platinum Edition provides classy satin-silver trim elements with the model’s usual sporty styling.
Porsche just announced the return of its special Cayenne Platinum Edition, available to order now and for delivery this summer. The Platinum Edition was last offered in the previous-generation Cayenne from 2016 to 2018, and like that version the new iteration combines a classy character details with the model’s usual sporty demeanour.
While the old version only came in one body style, the new Platinum Edition is now available as both a standard Cayenne and the sportier Cayenne Coupe, plus its an option with all three different V6-powered models, including 335-hp entry-level, 455-hp E-Hybrid, and 405-hp S trims.
Platinum Edition adds a luxe satin-silver motif as well as extra features
The Cayenne Platinum Edition’s interior gets unique textured aluminum inlays.
Setting the Platinum Edition apart from regular models, are satin-finish Platinum painted front fascia air intake slats, headlight bezels, 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, “PORSCHE” lettering on the centre strip of the rear LED taillights, and model designation just below. The Platinum Edition also features gloss-black side window trim and a similar treatment on the sport exhaust tips.
A full palette of exterior colours is available for the Platinum Edition, including solid white and black, plus metallics like Black, Carrara White, Mahogany, Moonlight Blue, and Chalk, the latter grey hue falling into the pricier “special colour” category.
This attractive dash-top clock comes standard with the Platinum Edition.
An aluminum door sill featuring “Platinum Edition” script greets driver and passengers upon entering Platinum Edition models, while additional bright metalwork includes exclusive textured aluminum inlays and yet more satin-silver accents, while Chalk-coloured seat belts provide a final touch.
Additional Platinum Edition standard features include LED headlamps with Porsche’s active cornering-capable Dynamic Light System (PDLS), as well as a set of eight-way-powered front leather sport seats, plus embossed Porsche crests on both the front and rear headrests. What’s more, Platinum Edition models get an analogue clock atop the dash, a surround-sound audio system by renowned stereo-maker Bose, ambient backlighting, rear privacy glass, and possibly best of all, a large panoramic sunroof overhead.
Platinum Edition priced to make it a popular upgrade
All outboard headrests are stamped with the Porsche crest.
The 2022 Platinum Edition starts at $92,800 for the entry-level Cayenne model, although getting the upgrade package with the same engine in the Cayenne Coupe is only $97,500, which means the latter option is just $8,800 more than the $13,600 being asked for this special trim with the regular Cayenne. Almost the exact same spread repeats for E-Hybrid Platinum Edition variants, which start at $109,100 for the regular Cayenne and $109,100 for the Cayenne Coupe, representing an identical $13,600 spread, while the upgraded version of the electrified Coupe starts at $110,500 for an $8,900 difference from its base variant. At the top of the Platinum Edition range, the upgrades to the Cayenne S start at $109,300, representing a $12,500 increase from the regular S, whereas adding the package to the Cayenne S Coupe pushes the price up to $112,000, for a $7,700 price bump.
The Cayenne Platinum Edition adds a whole host of premium features.
Those not willing to wait until summer for the new Platinum Edition may want to check for an alternative trim with their local Porsche retailer, because Porsche Canada currently has new 2022 Cayenne models available with factory leasing and financing rates from zero percent. Make sure to check out our 2022 Porsche Cayenne Canada Prices page for details, plus remember to download our free app from the App Store in order to have all CarCostCanada info with you when you need it most.
The 2023 Macan T might just have the best handling in the Macan line-up, thanks to lightweight four-cylinder power.
If you see an italicized “T” on the backside of a Macan in the near future, you might want to think twice about racing it through a winding country backroad.
Recently revealed for the 2023 model year, the new Macan T is a specially tuned version of the base Macan, with a focus on cornering agility. It benefits from less weight over the front wheels thanks to the base model’s 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which was bumped up to 261 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque for 2022, so it just might be the best handling Macan in the lineup, even when compared to the mighty 434-hp GTS.
New Macan T optimizes handling over straight-line power
Plenty of unique trim details set the Macan T apart.
Splitting the difference between GTS and base is the Macan S, which puts out 348 hp, while zero to 100 km/h performance times are (from quickest to slowest) the GTS at 4.5 seconds, the S at 4.8 seconds, the T at 6.2 seconds and the base model at 6.5 seconds. Of note, base models can be equipped with Porsche’s Sport Chrono package, which knocks 0.2 seconds off the straight-line sprint, this upgrade standard with the new Macan T. The new model is plenty fast too, with a top track speed of 232 km/h, both take-off and high-speed performance benefiting from Porsche’s seven-speed dual-clutch automated PDK transmission, which is standard with all Macan trims.
Of note, the Sport Chrono package replaces the regular dash-top clock with a lap timer/stopwatch, while a helpful steering wheel-mounted Sport Response button makes it easy to switch between drive modes, some of which abbreviate gearbox shift increments for a sportier feel and quicker performance.
At-the-limit cornering control is the Macan T’s specialty
Grey Agate metallic trim highlight key components, such as the side mirrors.
Specific to handling, the Macan T benefits from a 15-mm lower suspension and the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system as standard too, while those that upgrade to the automaker’s adaptive air suspension lose another 10 mm of ride height while gaining even sharper handling capability, not to mention a better ride quality.
Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive comes standard too, par for the course with the Macan, although it features additional rear torque bias for more agility through fast-paced corners. Aiding the latter are more rigid front anti-roll bars, as well as unique chassis tuning that Porsche claims to be “the perfect suspension for the vehicle and powertrain.” Lastly, at least for suspension mechanics, Macan T buyers can opt for Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, which has been retuned for improved performance when pushed hard through curves.
Styling updates complete Macan T transformation
Special 20-inch Macan S wheels look sharp.
Of course, Porsche couldn’t just upgrade the Macan T’s performance without making some design tweaks, so therefore it features some unique Agate Grey metallic trim pieces in key areas, particularly to the front fascia, the mirror caps, the side blades (that also feature a scripted “Macan T” trim designation), the rooftop spoiler, and the rear bumper, while high-gloss black outer window trim and exhaust pipe finishers add to its sporty appeal. Rounding out the package, literally, are 20-inch dark titanium Macan S alloy wheels, while 13 plain, metallic and special exterior colours allow buyers’ individual personalities to shine through.
If you see this “T” on the backside of a Macan, don’t attempt to race it through a curving backroad.
Inside, the same “Macan T” script brands a set of black aluminum door sill plates, while a multifunction GT steering wheel boasts a heatable leather-clad rim (which can optionally be wrapped in Race-Tex), and heated eight-way power-adjustable sport seats featuring grey pin-striping over Sport-Tex fabric centre panels, plus front headrests with embossed Porsche crests, add to the unique character of this performance-oriented model. The Macan T’s exclusive upholstery is in fact based on the Black leather package, which also includes silver contrast stitching on the seat bolsters, headrests, and steering wheel.
Notably, the Macan was refreshed partway through 2021 for the current 2022 model year. It featured updated exterior styling plus a slightly renewed interior, the latter particularly focused on the centre stack and console, which gets a larger 10.9-inch touchscreen complete with a fully-networked Porsche Communication Management (PCM) infotainment system, as well as touch-sensitive glass-look interface for selecting other key functions.
Macan T to be priced between entry-level Macan and Macan S
“Macan T” script highlights the black aluminum door sills.
When it arrives in early spring, the 2023 Macan T will be priced somewhere between the 2022 entry-level Macan, which starts at $58,500, and the 2022 Macan S, which can be had from $70,600 (the 2022 Macan GTS starts at $85,500). This will make this T trim line the most affordable performance-tuned Macan, and interestingly the first non-sports car to wear “T” branding.
Important as well, especially during our inflationary times, the new Macan T should benefit from similar fuel-efficiency to today’s base model, which is rated at 12.2 L/100km city, 10.2 highway and 11.3 combined. This compares well to V6-powered Macans that achieve claimed ratings of 13.1, 9.6 and 11.5 (S) and 13.5, 10.5 and 12.2 (GTS) respectively.
Zero percent lease and financing rates available from Porsche
The new 2022 BMW i4 promises to do clear battle with the Tesla Model 3.
With an expectation of 40 percent of North American new car buyers moving to full-electric mobility by 2030, BMW is setting out on a path to electrify 25 global models, half of which will be fully electric. Not all will be heading across the Atlantic, or the Pacific with respect to the Chinese-made iX3 crossover SUV that won’t yet be sold in North American markets, but we can expect to receive our fair share.
For starters, Canadians will be the recipients of BMW’s new 2022 i4 sport sedan and iX crossover SUV later this year. The former joins the German automaker’s D-segment 4 Series family, while the latter is positioned alongside the popular X5 mid-size crossover SUV, so therefore they target the popular Tesla Model 3 and Model X respectively. The two electric models share underpinnings too, thanks to BMW’s versatile Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform that also supports everything from their tiny 2 Series subcompact models to their executive-class 7, X7 and 8 Series models.
The i4 has style on its side, particularly from its rear end design.
The i4 shares its body style with the 4 Series Gran Coupe four-door liftback. It starts at $54,990 (sans incentives, freight, and fees), and will be available in two trims, including the eDrive40 and M50 xDrive. The less eDrive40 version features a single rear-wheel drive (RWD) electric motor capable of 335 hp, while the $72,990 M50 gets both front and rear motors for an all-wheel drivetrain (AWD) capable of 516 hp. Both i4 trims utilize BMW’s 83.9-kWh battery.
BMW promises range of 340 km on a single full charge with the i4 eDrive40, not to mention a 5.7-second sprint time from standstill to 100 km/h, whereas the M50 xDrive can sprint from zero to 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds and has the battery life to drive up to 510 km after a full charge. This means the i4 comes close to matching the aforementioned Tesla Model 3’s best-possible 576 km range.
BMW will offer one iX trim for 2022, and another two for 2023.
Notably, the near identically sized, yet more conservatively styled BMW 3 Series line continues to offer its 330e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) trim for 2022, which is a less expensive hybrid alternative Tesla doesn’t provide.
Similarly, BMW offers the X3 xDrive30e PHEV to Canadian buyers, but as noted at the onset of this article, the more advanced iX3 EV won’t testing the resolve of Tesla’s Model Y in Canada, at least not yet. This said, BMW follows up its compact X3 hybrid with a plug-in hybrid version of its larger mid-size X5, dubbed xDrive45e PHEV.
Not everyone will fall in love with the iX’ styling, but it looks to be very practical and nicely equipped.
The mid-size iX, on the other hand, is a full-electric that provides two-row, mid-size roominess for up to five passengers and plenty of cargo. BMW Canada will make three iX trims available, named xDrive40, xDrive50 and M60, with all incorporating standard front and rear motors for AWD.
To clarify, the xDrive50 is the only iX trim available for 2022, which means both xDrive40 and M60 models will be arriving later this year as 2023 models. The iX xDrive40, which will start at just $79,990 (plus freight and fees), puts out 322 hp, can hit 100 km/h from standstill in just 6.1 seconds, and has 340 km of range, should be very popular, although Canadians tend to buy more fully equipped models, so the 2022 xDrive50, which starts at $89,990, should be a hit due to 516 hp, a sprint time of 4.6 seconds to 100 km/h, and 521 km of range on a single charge. Finally, the top-tier M60 can be had from $121,750, features 610-hp for a 100-km/h dash of just 3.8 seconds, plus the ability to drive for up to 450 km on a single charge.
Both i4 and iX (shown) interiors promise high levels of luxury.
Additionally, unlike most electronic devices (including many EVs), BMW’s new battery electric vehicles won’t suffer from much battery degradation. This means its models’ various claimed range estimates should stand up over time. BMW claims, in fact, that its i4 and iX batteries will last the life of each vehicle, or specifically up to 1,500 full charge cycles, which is the equivalent of 500,000 km.
BMW X5 owners should find the 2022 iX xDrive50 a good BEV alternative.
We have full pricing and trim information for the 2022 i4 plus 2022 and 2023 iX here on CarCostCanada, as well as the ability to configure each model’s options. Additionally, CarCostCanada members regularly receive information about manufacturer rebates, factory financing, and lease rate deals. Both the i4 and iX are currently being offered with in-house financing/lease rates from 4.49 percent, while members also receive dealer invoice pricing that can be critical when negotiating your best deal. Learn how the CarCostCanada system works, and make sure to download our free app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store too.
The M50 adds BMW M performance and style to the i4 package.
Money in mind, all BMW i4 trims are eligible for provincial zero-emission incentives in BC, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Yukon and the Northwest Territories, while the base i4 eDrive40 also qualifies for the national iZEV rebate program.
Expect to see the new i4 and iX on Canadian roads soon, as it will start arriving at BMW Canada dealers in March.
BMW Ultimate – Reserve the BMW iX and i4 now! (0:15):
The Power of Action: Meet The First-Ever BMW iX & BMW i4 | BMW USA (0:06):
The Power of Action: Meet The First-Ever BMW iX & BMW i4 | BMW USA (0:15):
The Power of Action: Meet The First-Ever BMW iX & BMW i4 | BMW USA (0:30):
[ SPACE ] by BMW: BMW iX & i4 | BMW USA (1:12):
Introducing the BMW i4 M50: The All-Electric BMW M | BMW USA (2:54):
The First-Ever BMW i4 | The All-Electric Car | BMW USA (0:44):
The BMW Concept i4: New Electric Car | BMW USA (2:01):
The 2022 BMW i4 Models: BMW Review & Walk-Around | BMW USA (2:07):
The Electric Mood of the 2022 BMW iX | BMW USA (3:35):
Creating the BMW iX: Behind the Scenes, Episode 1 | BMW USA (2:11):
Creating the BMW iX: Behind the Scenes, Episode 2 | BMW USA (2:11):
Creating the BMW iX: Behind the Scenes, Episode 3 | BMW USA (2:25):
The All-Electric SAV: 2022 BMW iX Walk Around & Review | BMW USA (2:22):
Pioneer of a New Age: The Panoramic Eclipse Roof: The 2022 BMW iX | BMW USA (0:54):
Toyota has completely redesigned its full-size Sequoia, shown here in new top-tier Capstone trim.
Toyota just revealed its totally redesigned third-generation Sequoia, which will go on sale this summer as a 2023 model.
The new Sequoia is once again based on the Tundra pickup truck, a vehicle that was all-new last year for this 2022 model year. The 2023 Sequoia shares some styling elements with its more utility-oriented partner, but is for the most part its own design.
To be specific, the new Sequoia’s grille isn’t as bold, and arguably better for it. It shares more cues with the highly popular Tacoma, plus the RAV4, and doesn’t visually stray too far away from the Highlander and new Corolla Cross either. No doubt the new Sequoia’s look hints at the upcoming 4Runner, an SUV we should also see in updated form this year.
The new Sequoia can tow up to 9,000 lbs.
All in all, the new Sequoia looks tough and rugged, yet refined enough for both dad and mom. Flowing rearward from the big, bold grille is a hood that domes powerfully at centre, and further features heavy-duty, matte plastic, louvre-like garnishes on its rear corner edges when upgraded with “TRD PRO” trim. In fact, the latter trim makes itself known on the sides of those garnishes, in place of smaller, chromed “i FORCE MAX” signage in the same spot for other trims. Visually separating the new Capstone trim line are chrome embellishments on the doors above the rocker panels. Those sides are now more deeply sculpted than before, while the Sequoia’s rear styling certainly won’t offend traditional SUV buyer’s tastes.
Most should be pleased with the new Sequoia’s styling, not to mention its 4×4 prowess.
A total of five trims will be available upon launch, including TRD Off-Road, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro and Capstone, the latter introduced with the latest Tundra. Capstone represents an even more luxurious level above Platinum, boasting a unique black and white motif inside, much of which is covered with high-quality semi-aniline leather, while Toyota has improved soundproofing as well.
Incidentally, the i-Force Max engine, which is available as an option in the new Tundra, comes standard with the Sequoia. What’s more, it isn’t a V8, but a 3.5-litre hybrid V6 capable of a whopping 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. It feeds all that muscle down to a four-wheel drive system through a 10-speed automatic gearbox that comes fitted with Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes.
The Sequoia’s rear design is simple, clean and inoffensive.
The hybrid component is a generator motor positioned between the internal combustion portion of the drivetrain and the transmission. This is a well-tested solution, so we can expect Toyota’s legendary hybrid reliability and longevity included with this powertrain’s improved fuel economy.
Being that all Sequoia trims will get the same engine, performance differences come down to the suspension. Some will be optimized for handling and comfort, while others will prioritize off-road capability, but all should provide ample handling chops and overall stability to keep all that engine power in check on when the road starts to wind.
Each trim level gets its own design details.
To achieve the new Sequoia’s manoeuvrability, the already improved Tundra chassis design received fine tuning, particularly to the independent front suspension setup and rack-mounted electronic power steering system, that latter reportedly enhancing feel. A multi-link rear suspension has also been added, improved over the previous Sequoia’s, while buyers can also add an adaptive variable suspension to the mix, which includes Comfort, Sport S, Sport S+ and Custom settings to the Drive Mode Select system’s menu. A height-adjustable air suspension with load levelling is optional too, this feature particularly helpful when loading and unloading.
The new standard 3.5-litre hybrid V6 makes towing easier thanks to 437 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque.
Hauling in mind, the new Sequoia is now capable of towing up to 9,000 lbs (4,080 kg) of trailer, which is nearly 22-percent more weight than today’s version. Backing this up (literally) is a Tow Tech Package that was first offered with the new Tundra, featuring a Trailer Backup Guide and Straight Path Assist, the latter automatically using the steering system to keep the trailer straight when reversing. The power mirrors also include powered extensions for seeing around the sides of wider loads.
Standard Sequoia features include a heated steering wheel and front seats, Toyota’s breathable Softex leatherette upholstery, a large panoramic sunroof, 18-inch wheels, and the TSS 2.5 suite of safety features.
Upper trims, like this TRD Pro, feature a large 14-inch centre touchscreen.
A 14-inch centre touchscreen is available, improving the Sequoia’s digital experience with features like a Panoramic View Monitor to ease parking, while a digital display rear view mirror is available as well, as is a colourful digital driver’s display.
The new 2023 Sequoia’s interior is laid out much like the outgoing model. It comes standard with three rows including a middle bench, with second-row captain’s chairs being optional. New is a third row that not only reclines, but slides back and forth up to 150 mm (6.0 in), while a handy adjustable hard-shell parcel shelf improves cargo area flexibility. It can be expanded to cover the rear seatbacks when folded, resulting in a completely flat loading floor. The shelf can be fitted back into the floor for carrying taller cargo, or alternatively it acts as a cargo cover when raised higher.
A large panoramic sunroof comes standard.
As far as sales go, Toyota is likely looking to loyal 4Runner, Highlander, and of course Sequoia owners as buyers for the new SUV, plus ex-Land Cruiser owners in the U.S. News about the new model will definitely cause some buzz here in Canada, but Sequoia sales have been so few and far between that it may take some time to raise awareness.
Toyota Canada sold 418 Sequoias last year, which was less than half of its all-time Canadian high of 912 unit-sales in 2010. Comparison to General Motors’ Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon success hardly seems relevant at this point, with the two brands’ collective deliveries totalling 15,307 units, or roughly 36.5 times as many full-size SUVs than Toyota. On a more positive note (to Toyota), that’s a lot of market share for the Japanese brand to nibble away at, and this new Sequoia should make a significant dent.
An adjustable cargo shelf provides a flat loading floor.
Something domestic SUV shoppers should consider is retained value, which was highest for the Sequoia in the Canadian Black Book’s “Full-size Crossover-SUV” category, while Toyota’s largest SUV also owned the top “Large SUV/Crossover” spot with Vincentric’s Best Value in Canada Awards. Additionally, the Sequoia earned a best-possible position in J.D. Power and Associate’s 2021 Initial Quality Study.
We should expect to see more Sequoias on the road starting this summer.
2023 Toyota Sequoia Overview | Toyota (7:07):
2023 Toyota Sequoia | Undeniable Capability, Unmistakable Presence | Toyota (2:17):
The new MDX Type S promises much better performance the regular version.
If you purchased a brand new, fully-loaded Acura MDX last year, you would’ve paid a maximum of $69,400, plus freight, fees and taxes, or about $1,100 less than the much more advanced MDX Sport Hybrid when last available in 2020. Now, however, two new trims are pushing the 2022 MDX’ price up to and beyond the $80k threshold, but nevertheless we think a lot of Canadian luxury utility buyers will be willing to part with $10k more in order to take home the sportier Type S variant.
The new 2022 Acura MDX Type S, which is now available from $79,000 (or $81,500 including destination fees), adds a number of key upgrades that are well worth the extra cost. Specifically, the Type S gets a more potent engine good for 65 additional horsepower and 87 lb-ft of extra torque, which results in a grand total of 355 hp and 345 lb-ft of twist, while the performance-focused family hauler also features an Active Exhaust system in order to make it sound as fast as it is.
This badge means there’s 355 hp and 345 lb-ft of torque behind the grille.
There’s no change in engine displacement, but the 10-speed automatic transmission connected to that 3.0-litre V6 has been beefed up inside, plus enhanced with quicker shifting gear increments, and rev-matched downshifts. What’s more, a performance-tuned version of the Japanese luxury brand’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system optimizes the uprated high-performance rubber underneath.
Those tires are special self-sealing all seasons, wrapping around a set of 21-inch twinned five-spoke alloys boasting black-painted pockets, and visible through those rims are aggressive Brembo brakes that incorporate big 363-mm front discs with four-piston fixed calipers.
Unique wheels frame a big set of Brembo brakes, aiding stopping power.
Acura’s first-ever adaptive air suspension helps maintain stability under braking as well as mid-corner, thanks to three unique damping profiles exclusive to the MDX Type S. The brand’s Integrated Dynamics System was improved as well, with special Sport+ and ride height-increasing Lift modes. As exciting as all this sounds, let’s not forget the three-row crossover SUV is a family-first shuttle after all, a point Acura wanted to keep clear by mentioning in their press release that even this sporty Type S will provide “a smooth, comfortable ride.”
Special quilted leather upholstery enhance the Type S’ interior.
Type S buyers wanting more luxury can ante up for the Ultra Package that, for $4,000 more includes 16-way powered front seats with nine massage settings, plus quilted leather upholstery, and a 1,000-watt ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system boasting 25 speakers that include LED-illuminated door speakers, high-performance PrecisionDrive carbon-fibre speakers, and CenterParquet. This package increases the price of the MDX Type S by $4,000 to $83,000 (or $85,500 with destination), which is well into German luxury SUV territory.
As far as external visuals go, the 2022 MDX Type S receives a modified front fascia featuring an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille design for enhanced engine cooling, while an exclusive front splitter sets the front lower section apart from lesser MDX trims. Additionally, the rear diffuser gets the Type S treatment too, thanks to four exhaust outlets.
Built in East Liberty, Ohio, the 2022 MDX Type S is joined by the TLX Type S sport sedan and NSX Type S mid-engine sports car in the 2022 Acura lineup. We should also expect to see a Type S variant of the upcoming Integra sport sedan, which will be replacing the ILX later this year.
Buying a car, even if it’s not your first, is a big decision. You have a lot to think about and you want to make sure you don’t forget anything. Most of all, you want to make sure you pay the right price for what you really need.
Making the right decision can be easier and save you thousands of dollars just by using CarCostCanada. In fact, they offer free price reports that help most Canadians negotiate when buying a new car. Canadians across the country are now sharing their stories to show how anyone can save thousands of dollars on their next new car purchase by using CarCostCanada’s services.
This week, let’s take a look at Mike’s story and find out how he saved over $5,000 on his new Audi S4 with CarCostCanada’s free price report.
Saving more even on a high end car
Mike is a 28 year old active man from Toronto, Ontario. He works in finance and is often on the road meeting new clients. However, he also enjoys playing baseball on the weekends and getting together with friends for a beer after work. Mike is single, has no children.
Following a recent promotion, Mike wanted a new car to match his success. So, to make sure he was making the right decision, Mike decided to shop around with the help of CarCostCanada. A friend of his told him about the online price reports of CarCostCanada and said it would not only help him find the perfect car, but also save him a lot of money.
Getting the best price on a new car in 3 easy steps
In 3 easy steps, he was able to build his price report online. First, he built and priced his new car using CarCostCanada’s free report tool, just as he would have done on the manufacturer’s website.
Once the price report was generated, he obtained the best price formula for his specific model by taking the dealer cost minus the incentive plus the dealer margin to see what the best possible price would be.
Finally, the tool helped him find the nearest dealer and meet with one of their professional representatives to get the best price and an exceptional buying experience.
Mike was looking for a car that would make a good impression when he met new clients and went out with his friends. He decided to go with the Audi S4, the car of his dreams, which is a young and good looking car, just like him.
Finally, in the process of buying his new car, Mike was able to save over $5000.
About CarCostCanada
Since 1999 we have provided Canadian New Car Buyers with access to our proprietary Dealer Invoice Price Reports.
Complementing the Dealer Invoice Price Reports, we also have an in-house team of automotive professionals with over an accumulated 100 years of experience and a Canada-Wide New Car Dealer Network.
The 911 has earned highest retained value in its Premium Sporty Car segment for two years running.
No matter whether on the road or at the track, Porsche makes a habit of performing at the front of the pack. After the sports car brand managed to attain the highest position possible in the Canadian Black Book (CBB) “2021 Overall Brand Award – Luxury” category for three consecutive years, it once again achieved the top spot in the latest 2021 study.
Porsche actually scores well in all of its categories, with the Panamera retaining the highest percentage of any competitor in its Prestige Luxury Car segment, a feat it’s attained for the past eight years. Similarly, the Macan, which earned the highest score in its Compact Luxury Crossover division yet again, has owned this position for three years in a row, while the legendary 911 has been on top of the Premium Sporty Car class for two years as of the 2021 CBB study.
The Panamera, shown here in 2021 GTS trim, has won its Prestige Luxury Car class for eight years in a row.
“We are honoured and delighted to accept the Overall Brand Award – Luxury as well as three model accolades from Canadian Black Book this year,” noted Marc Ouayoun, President and CEO, Porsche Cars Canada, Ltd. “Consumers have many available choices in the market and we welcome these recognitions, which provide an additional reason to consider the brand. These outstanding acknowledgments by the leading authority highlight strong value retentions which ultimately benefit the customer.”
The Canadian Black Book study ranks vehicles on the retained percentage of their manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) after four years. Holding on to a high value means that ownership will cost less when it comes time for reselling or trading in for a new model, so this is a very important metric.
The Macan, pictured in GTS trim, has outranked all Compact Luxury Crossover category rivals in retained value for three years consecutively.
Although four years since its second-gen redesign, the Enclave still looks good, even in base Essence trim.
As the years start to stack up and there’s more of them behind you than ahead, to hear you’re aging gracefully is quite the compliment. Such could be said of Buick’s current Enclave, a three-row crossover SUV that’s now been with us in its current second-generation form for four years. Certainly, that’s not long by human standards, but it’s a full product cycle in automotive years, albeit not compared to the first-generation Enclave that, despite a mid-cycle refresh in 2013, lasted for an entire decade.
The SUV being reviewed here was as up-to-date as possible when being tested, but as it happens, 2021 is the Enclave’s last model year before getting a fairly comprehensive makeover. Its underpinnings will remain the same, but its styling will look a lot fresher, and not unlike the much sleeker and more modern looking second-gen Chinese-market version that’s been available since last year.
Long and accommodating, all Enclave trims provide impressive roominess in all seating positions, plus plenty of cargo space.
Sure, you can wait for a 2022, which actually gets reduced by $300 at the base level, but there’s opportunity to take advantage of end-of-lifecycle savings if you choose a 2021 over the new 2022 model, so as long as you don’t need to have the latest and greatest styling, the outgoing Enclave is still one very attractive family hauler. It’s also a very affordable one, at least when comparing it to longstanding luxury brands that it more or less competes against. To be clear, three-row SUV buyers won’t likely be shopping the Enclave against BMW’s X7 or Mercedes’ GLS, simply because their price points are nowhere near each other.
There’s nothing particularly unique about the Enclave’s rear design, but it’s certainly not offensive.
A base Enclave Essence starts at $48,398, or $51,398 with as-tested all-wheel drive. That’s similar pricing to fully loaded alternatives from Honda, Hyundai, Kia or Toyota, which arguably offer more features (and sometimes more luxury) for the money, but none of these rise up to $70k, which is possible when adding all the options to the Enclave Avenir. That’s around where a base Audi Q7 starts, and plenty of other premium-branded three-row SUVs, although an equivalent entry-level GLS will set you back an astonishing $101,900, just a bit less than what you’ll need to pay for the least expensive X7, which starts at $102,900.
A $1,495 Sport Touring upgrade package adds this sporty black mesh grille.
This in mind, Buick, and its Enclave fall into the entry-level luxury sector, along with competitors like the $48,995 Infiniti QX60, $56,405 Acura MDX, and possibly the $59,700 three-row Lexus RX 350 L (which is only meant for small kids in the third row), although if we’re moving all the way up to the $60k starting point, we should probably include GM’s own Cadillac XT6 that rides on the same stretched C1XX platform (more or less) as the Enclave (and the Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia), yet starts at $57,998. Everything else in this class retails over the $60,000 threshold, and while that’s about where the aforementioned Enclave Avenir can be had ($62,298), this Enclave Essence is the model Buick gave me to test, and therefore targets a different entry-level luxury client.
LED headlamps come standard across the Enclave line.
I don’t know if that last exercise was done more for my own clarification of where Buick fits into the scheme of luxury things, or as a way for you to come to grips with the same, but in any case, it’s good to understand that Buick fills an important niche in the middle of the automotive class hierarchy, and its relatively strong sales more or less prove that reality.
Despite only offering five models (the 2020 Regal Sportback of which has already been sent off to that great four-door sedan graveyard in the sky—it’s a five-door really, as its trunk is actually a hatch), Buick managed to rank sixth amongst premium brands in Canada thanks to 15,957 units being sold last year, which puts it only 755 sales behind Acura, plus more than twice as much as Lincoln (7,155) and almost three times as many deliveries as Infiniti after a particularly gutting year. What’s more, as of Q2 2021’s close, Buick’s 8,277 delivery total had already blasted past Acura’s rather sluggish 7,465 tally, although Cadillac’s XT6 appears to be on a roll with 8,402 examples out the door, so therefore Buick maintains its sixth position.
These sporty machine-finished 20-inch alloys with black-painted pockets come with the optional ST package.
The Enclave wasn’t quite as strong in its mid-size three-row luxury SUV category last year as the Buick brand, but amongst dedicated premium three-row family haulers it ranked seventh out of 11 competitors with 1,773 deliveries (I’m not including Bentley’s Bentayga on this list for obvious reasons). This said, so far this year it’s doing a bit better with 1,270 units down the road already, placing it ahead of Mercedes’ GLS (1,148), Lincoln’s Aviator (926), and Infiniti’s QX60 (687) that’s getting an even more dramatic redesign for 2022.
Nice chrome faux “door hinge” garnishes add to the Enclave’s upscale appearance.
Cadillac’s XT6 (973) lagged a bit behind the Enclave over the first six months of this year, as did BMW’s X7 (522), Lexus’ GX (161), and Land Rover’s Discovery (103), which seems to be getting killed by the new Defender (1,057). Tally all this up and it’s easy to understand why the Buick brand and this Enclave model are so important to General Motors (a total of 3,264 combined Enclave and XT6 sales puts GM close to Acura’s MDX), but after factoring in their even greater strength in the U.S. and yet stronger presence in China, this information might also help build confidence that Buick isn’t about to leave our market anytime soon—unfortunately I can’t confirm that for Infiniti.
Sharp looking taillights get spliced by sharp blade-like bright metal trim, while that tiny “ST” badge refers to this example’s Sport Touring package.
The upcoming 2022 Enclave refresh should further improve the model’s sales when it arrives later this year, as long as Buick doesn’t dump any leftover 2021s on the market before the new one gets here. The fact Buick is only offering customers up to $1,000 in additional incentives is a good sign they have inventories in check, but stay tuned to CarCostCanada for any further discount info. Also, take note that CarCostCanada members who purchased a new 2021 Enclave saved an average of $2,625 thanks to knowing the SUV’s dealer invoice price before negotiating their best deal, which means it’s a good idea to find out how their very affordable membership works, and how easy it is to use from anywhere via their free app that can be downloaded from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.
Even the base Enclave’s interior should cause pause to anyone questioning whether this SUV deserves premium status.
As for the 2021 Enclave Essence being reviewed here, my tester was not only upgraded with AWD, but also received a stylish $1,495 Sport Touring upgrade package that includes a sporty black mesh grille, glossed-black Pitch Dark Night lower accent trim, and 20-inch alloys instead of the standard 18s. This gets added to a base model that also features automatic on/off LED headlamps and heated power-folding exterior mirrors, on the outside, plus proximity access to get you inside.
The Enclave’s driver positioning should be good for all body types, while its cockpit layout is easy to use and filled with standard features.
Once seated, pushbutton ignition gets the engine going, while additional standard features include an auto-dimming centre mirror, a 4.2-inch colour multi-information display within the gauge cluster, an 8.0-inch touchscreen at dash-central, integrating Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, a universal garage door opener, a powered tilt and telescopic steering column, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, a Safety Alert driver’s seat that uses vibrations to warn, perforated leather seat upholstery, three-way heatable and ventilated powered front seats with four-way lumbar support, two-position driver memory, three-zone auto HVAC with a set of rear controls, heatable second-row captain’s chairs resulting in seven-passenger capability (a bench for the second row resulting in a total of eight occupants is available), a power-folding 60/40-split third row, a hands-free powered liftgate, a 120-volt power outlet, remote start, etcetera.
The primary gauge cluster works as it needs to and is pleasantly designed, but it lacks the tech offered by most rivals.
All Enclaves include the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package of advanced driver assistance and safety technologies as standard too, which includes a Following Distance Indicator, Forward Collision Alert, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking and Front Pedestrian Braking, as well as Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Side Blind Zone Alert with Lane Change Alert, front and rear Park Assist, and IntelliBeam auto high beam assist headlights.
The Enclave’s centre stack is intelligently laid out, and the infotainment system is top-notch.
Believe me, I never once felt like I was slumming it in this Buick, even in its base trim. Actually, standard features like cloth-wrapped A, B and C pillars gave it a true premium feel, as did better-than-average soft composite materials on top of the dash and atop the front and rear side window sills. It’s also impressive across the front of the instrument panel, and the lower section of that IP ahead of the front passenger, which extends below the infotainment touchscreen and along the right side of the lower console. Buick made a point of stitching nicely padded leatherette on the sides of that centre stack and lower console, the left side of which is padded further to protect the driver’s inner knee from chafing, while this pampering surface treatment extends down to the armrest as well. These areas were done out in a particularly attractive caramel brown in my tester, perfectly matching the seats and door inserts that were also stitched, the former also featuring perforated leather inserts.
The infotainment system’s graphics are easy to understand, this “page” showing the tri-zone climate control system’s functions.
Additionally, the seat surface leather is suppler than some others at the Enclave Essence’s price point too, plus those aforementioned heated front cushions warm up to near therapeutic levels. Warmth in mind, the climate control interface, while appearing a bit rudimentary, did its job well, and while it could be a bit more upscale to look at my eyes were more easily pulled toward the centre display overtop, which has to be one of the simplest to use in the segment.
The Enclave’s standard 9-speed automatic transmission is ultra-smooth, as expected, but also surprisingly sporty.
I generally like General Motors’ infotainment systems, and while I appreciate Chevrolet’s more colourful Apple-inspired interface even more than this classier design from Buick, they both work identically and utilize a full colour palette for graphically stimulating controls. I found this latest version responded to inputs quickly, which was particularly notable when jiggling the navigation map around with my fingertips. I should also note that GM’s navigation/GPS system has never once led me astray either, so a big hand to the automaker’s tech department that does infotainment very well. Important also, the rearview camera was clear and its moving guidelines useful, while the standard Bose audio system was very good.
Comfort yes, but the base front seats’ lateral support aren’t up to the SUV’s handling capability.
As for the Enclave’s primary gauge cluster, it’s not very enticing. The chrome trimmed analogue dials are ok, these placed bookending another set of chrome-edged gas and engine temp meters above, but the tiny square multi-information display kind of looks like an aftermarket add-on. This comes at a time that competitors are arriving with fully digital clusters that show virtual gauges one minute and giant maps the next. Some brands are even including rear-facing camera monitors in their clusters, so Buick needs to up the ante in this respect. Fortunately, even this base Enclave’s steering wheel is excellent, with high-quality leather and an impressively sporty feel, while the spokes’ switchgear well-made and works as it should.
The standard second-row captain’s chairs are a step up from the optional bench.
Looking up to the overhead console could be summed up as a trip back to yesteryear too, although it’s functional and happily includes a sunglasses holder, as well as LED reading lights and switches for the universal remote, OnStar, SOS, plus more. You won’t find a power sunroof button, as this base trim doesn’t include a sunroof, and I have to say it’s weird not seeing a sunroof in a roof this large.
Nevertheless, I found it easy to find an ideal driving position thanks to a manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel with loads of rearward reach, while the seats were comfortable, although without much lateral support, therefore if you’re looking to use this Enclave to snake through fast-paced corners, you’ll probably want to find something other than the steering wheel to hold on to. This is only worth mentioning because the Enclave handles well, partially due to the 20-inch wheel and 255/55 tire upgrade noted earlier, so it might be a good idea for performance fans to look upstream to a fancier trim line in order to find more aggressive seat bolstering.
Getting into the third row is ultra-easy thanks to innovative second-row captain’s chairs that pop up and move right out of the way.
Similarly, the Enclave Essence model’s second-row captain’s chair backrests are almost totally flat, although rear passengers can fold down their individual centre armrests to hang on. The second-row seats are mostly comfortable, however, with good legroom when slid all the way rearward. Those in the second row will also appreciate the previously mentioned rear climate control panel on the backside of the front console, which includes seat warming switchgear. This is where you can also find a set of USB chargers, but oddly no air vents. Don’t worry, though, as these are intelligently integrated within the roof, as are another set of vents for third-row passengers, and likewise for the LED reading lamps.
If you regularly use a third row, the Enclave should be high on your list as the rearmost seat is roomy.
It’s easy to flip the second-row seats up and out of the way for getting into the very back, only necessitating a mild pull on a handle atop the backrest, while another lever below flips them down for storage. Before getting into cargo capacity, rear occupants enjoy separate USB charging ports, not to mention fairly large rear quarter windows for good outward visibility. I found the third-row seats comfortable too, not to mention reasonably roomy. Buick left good space for legs and feet, especially when the second-row seats are pulled slightly forward.
As for cargo, they fold down relatively flat, as does the second row, providing more storage capacity than most of their peers. In fact, I was able to load up a double-wide Ikea Pax wardrobe inside, including its rather bulky glass sliding door system, with room left over. By the numbers, the Enclave can manage up to 2,764 litres of what-have-you behind the front seats, 1,642 litres aft of the second row, and 668 litres in back of the third row.
This vantage point shows how much legroom is offered to rear passengers, not to mention the large rear quarter windows.
Even when loaded up with gear the Enclave was no slouch off the line, its 3.6-litre V6 making a healthy 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque for plenty of straight-line performance. It’s conjoined to a nine-speed autobox that not only aids fuel economy with a fairly good rating of 13.0 L/100km city, 9.1 highway and 11.2 combined with FWD, or a respective 13.6, 9.6 and 11.8 in as-tested AWD, partially thanks to standard idle start/stop technology, but it also provides wonderfully smooth shift up and down the range.
Then again, engaging manual mode and its steering wheel-mounted paddles transform this calm, sedate traveler into a much sportier canyon carver, or at least it was much more enjoyable than I initially expected. BMW doesn’t even go so far as to hold the X5 or X7 engine’s redlines before upshifting, so a big hand for Buick’s engineers that give the Enclave such strong performance. The V6 also makes a nice growl at full throttle, although I wouldn’t take that to mean it’ll outshine those BMWs as far as engine auditory tracks go.
Compared to most three-row rivals, this is a lot of dedicated cargo space.
I think ride quality will matter more to most Buick buyers than all-out performance, however, and to that end the Enclave’s driver and many passengers will be nicely isolated from exterior elements no matter the speeds being traveled or environment outside. Although I found there was more wind buffeting on the highway than expected. It wasn’t the side windows (I checked), but it may be something specific to my test model’s door seals. Buick prides itself in providing near tomblike silent interiors, so it could also be possible that more of Buick’s “Quiet Tuning” technologies get added to upper trims. Either way, make sure you look for this on your test drive.
How’s that for total cargo volume? The Enclave provides one of the most accommodating interiors in its class.
Even if the Enclave Essence is a bit noisier at highway speeds than it should be, it’s hard to argue against its sub-$50k price point. That it competes so well against others that cost thousands more should be taken into consideration, but then again it also gets out-muscled for features and refinement by some newcomers in the volume-branded mainstream category. This is a very competitive market segment, and the upcoming 2022 Enclave should address some of my minor complaints.
On that note, I don’t think any of my grumblings should put you off testing a 2021 Enclave, and at least comparing it to its rivals, especially when factoring in Buick’s enviably high ranking in J.D. Power and Associates’ 2021 Vehicle Dependability Study, where it sits fifth overall and just third amongst luxury brands.
The new 2022 Buick Enclave should find universal appeal from a styling perspective, especially in top-line Avenir trim.
Buick recently unveiled its refreshed 2022 Enclave, and one glance should be all that fans of the brand need in order to trade up to the new model. To be clear, the refresh is more about evolution than revolution, with the majority of styling updates pulled over from its predecessor.
The second-generation Enclave arrived on the scene in 2017 as a 2018 model, unless you’re reading this from China where a unique version appeared two years later for the 2020 model year. The two designs seem to have been melded into one for this 2022 Enclave, which is a very good thing for those who appreciate elegant conservatism over edgy modernity.
That’s one big new grille, although it still comes across as classy, which is important for the brand’s more conservative clientele.
As most in this camp with agree, the outgoing 2021 Enclave was already a very good-looking mid-size crossover SUV, with its Chinese alternate arguably being even more attractive. Changes made to this mid-cycle update include a larger grille for even greater premium presence, new headlights and tail lamps for yet more visual fluidity at its backside, and sharpened bumpers front to rear in order to increase visual width. It all results in even more luxury appeal, which Buick will hope lures in would-be shoppers that might otherwise be coaxed away from imported three-row luxury utilities.
Expect even higher quality finishings inside the 2022 Enclave, not to mention some updated design details.
Away from such lofty heights, the renewed 2022 Enclave’s standard Driver Confidence Plus suite of advanced driver’s assistance and safety technologies include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, rear parking assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beam assistance.
Behind the 2022 Enclaves larger grille, the same 310 hp 3.6-litre V6 joins up with a nine-speed automatic transmission to drive all four wheels, with no powertrain option available. A fully independent suspension provides good road-holding and, most importantly in this class, a comfortable ride, although the top-line Enclave Avenir comes with a more sophisticated adaptive suspension.
The Enclave has always been spacious in all of its three rows, especially when compared to three-row luxury rivals such as Lexus’ RX 350 L.
Buick is offering factory leasing and financing rates from zero percent on the 2022 model, although so far the General Motors brand isn’t advertising the updated Enclave on their retail website, so contact your local dealer to see if you can order one. As for the outgoing 2021 model, our 2021 Buick Enclave Canada Prices page is currently showing up to $1,000 in additional incentives for new buyers, while CarCostCanada members were saving an average of $2,916 at the time of writing.
Porsche commissioned Bill Nye The Science Guy to explain complicated Porsche Taycan technology in simple, everyday terms.
The new Porsche Taycan is one of the more technologically advanced EVs currently available, but this doesn’t mean the only people capable of understanding how it works are electrical engineers.
In order to simplify the science, Porsche hired Bill Nye The Science Guy, a popular TV personality, to explain all the key technology, which resulted in a five-part short-format video series. Each episode, which span just under a single minute to one-and-a-half minutes long, focus in on technologies that differentiate the Taycan from its competitors, such as its 800-volt battery, uniquely innovative aerodynamic design, regenerative braking system, two-speed transmission, and repeatable performance.
Bill Nye uses graphics and humour to bring electrical engineering to the masses.
The YouTube series, dubbed “Bill Nye Explains The All-Electric Taycan,” was filmed at the Porsche Experience Center in Los Angeles, California. The entertaining host uses simple terms and silly antics to clarify otherwise complicated subject matter, resulting in a series that’s ideal for all ages.
The Taycan, which arrived on the electric scene only last year, is already available in two unique body unique styles and four individual trims, including 4, 4S, Turbo and Turbo S. The sleek Taycan four-door coupe can be had in three of the just-noted trims, including 4S, Turbo and Turbo S, whereas the more recently introduced Taycan Cross Turismo also has a base trim. Additionally, the Cross Turismo can be upgraded with an Off-road Design package that increases ride height while adding more aggressive styling enhancements.
Check out all five short-format videos below.
Top-level Taycan Turbo S trim can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in only 2.8 seconds, thanks to its 750-hp twin-electric-motor power unit, while standard AWD means that all four performance tires grip the road below, especially helpful in inclement weather or when off-road.
Porsche is now offering the 2021 Taycan with factory leasing and financing rates from zero-percent, so be sure check out our 2021 Porsche Taycan Canada Prices page to learn more. We also provide our CarCostCanada members with dealer invoice pricing that could save you thousands when purchasing your next new vehicle, so learn how our system works, and remember to download our free CarCostCanada app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store, so you can have all of this valuable information at your fingertips when you need it most.
Here are the five “Bill Nye Explains The All-Electric Taycan” videos:
Bill Nye Explains the All-Electric Taycan: Two-Speed Transmission (1:11):
Bill Nye Explains the All-Electric Taycan: 800 Volts (1:17):
Bill Nye Explains the All-Electric Taycan: Regenerative Braking (0:52):
Bill Nye Explains the All-Electric Taycan: Aerodynamics (1:14):
Bill Nye Explains the All-Electric Taycan: Repeat Performance (1:34):
