There is no striving industry that is not on the web nowadays. Just take a look at giants like Amazon and Alibaba. Wouldn’t you agree that they have profoundly transformed shopping? As people are turning…

Shopping for tires online is the “smart” move

There is no striving industry that is not on the web nowadays. Just take a look at giants like Amazon and Alibaba. Wouldn’t you agree that they have profoundly transformed shopping? As people are turning in masses to online shopping for buying even the most ordinary items. It is somewhat surprising that when it comes to buying tires, a lot of people don’t think of online shopping.

In fact, shopping online for tires has so many advantages that once you purchase online, you’ll never buy again from a tire shop!

Online is cheaper

The first thing that jumps out when it comes to online shopping is that it is simply cheaper. In fact, depending on the type of tires you are looking for, you could save between 50$ and 200$. How is that possible, you may ask? Essentially because of two factors: volume and fixed costs.

So, what do we mean by volume? Websites that offer tires sell a lot of them, sometimes even more than car dealerships or specialized shops. The bigger the volume of tires sold on that website, the bigger the discount they can negotiate with the tire manufacturers. Of course, if the website pays less for its tires, so does the customer!

Fixed costs are a bit trickier to understand. In business, a fixed cost is a cost that stays the same, regardless of the quantity of a product you sell. Fixed costs include electricity, rent, water fees, etc. Basically, everything that has nothing to do with tires! Since online stores don’t have to receive clients, and other types of goods, their buildings don’t have to be pretty or welcoming to customers, or capable of receiving a huge variety of stuff. Therefore, they save a lot of money on fixed costs, which means the customer is saving money, in the end.

Online, there are more options!

You like to shop and compare tire models? Shopping online is for you! Online tire shops order their tires directly from the suppliers. If you are looking for a particular tire model, the website can order it in for you. And yes, some traditional shops will do it as well.

However, since most traditional shops have to share their warehouse space between a lot of different products, they can’t keep a big or diverse inventory. Tires websites on the other hand, have the capacity and will have a much bigger inventory. Why? Because 100% of their space is dedicated to storing tires. So, if you are looking for a particular model, chances are that the website will have it in inventory, since it can store so much more.

Online, there is no pressure!

If you go to a car dealership or a traditional store for your tires, there are good chances that the salesman will try to push a particular product on you. Why? Because they have special promotional incentives with certain manufacturers, and in the end, you might not even get the right tire model for your car.

Online, there is no such partnership. You go there, you enter the year, make and model of your vehicle, and you’ll see every type of tire available for your car! You’ll finally be able to shop peacefully, finding the right tire model for you, without any pressure from a salesman.

Still skeptical about online shopping for tires? Go take a look at the low prices we mention for yourself! See all the summer tires deal here at 4Tires.ca or visit other Canadian online website.

Few electric cars have caused as much excitement as the Porsche Mission E, but consider for a moment that one of the German brand’s current hybrids makes 680 horsepower and enthusiasm about an upcoming…

All-electric Porsche Mission E to be renamed Taycan in production trim

2015 Porsche Mission E Concept
Porsche just announced the upcoming all-electric sports car based on the 2015 Porsche Mission E Concept will be called the Taycan. (Photo: Porsche)

Few electric cars have caused as much excitement as the Porsche Mission E, but consider for a moment that one of the German brand’s current hybrids makes 680 horsepower and enthusiasm about an upcoming EV makes perfect sense. 

The hybrid in question is the plug-in Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid that puts 680 net horsepower and 626 combined lb-ft of torque through four wheels via an eight-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox on its way from standstill to 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds before a terminal velocity of 310 km/h (192.6 mph). It’s the most powerful production Panamera ever made, and is only 20 horsepower shy of the most formidable Porsche ever, the 911 GT2 RS. And you thought the 608-horsepower 918 Spyder was Porsche’s most potent hybrid? 

2015 Porsche Mission E Concept
We can only hope the 600-plus horsepower production Taycan will be as attractive as the Mission E Concept. (Photo: Porsche)

With such an electrified legacy to call upon, thoughts of an all-new fully electric Porsche sports car should cause Elon Musk and his leagues of Tesla faithful to quiver in fear, but first they’ll need to learn how to pronounce the new production model’s name: Taycan. 

In a recent release, Porsche clarifies that its “Mission E” concept study isn’t as much a car as it is a name designed to describe the brand’s complete electric offering. This was previously inferred in March of this year when Porsche introduced its Mission E Cross Concept, a crossover-style version of the original 2015 Mission E with a Panamera Sport Turismo style body that Porsche promises to bring to market as well. While we have yet to learn the name of this futuristic electrified SUV, the first of the real-world Mission E offerings will be the Taycan four-door coupe, with series production starting next year. 

2018 Porsche Mission E Cross Concept
The 2018 Mission E Cross Concept electric crossover SUV helps us to understand that “Mission E” refers to a family of EVs. (Photo: Porsche)

The rough translation of Taycan is “lively young horse” says Porsche, a theme chosen from the Porsche crest that has featured the image of a leaping horse since 1952. 

“Our new electric sports car is strong and dependable; it’s a vehicle that can consistently cover long distances and that epitomizes freedom”, explains Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG. 

In sync with the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, Porsche promises the Taycan will be capable of zero to 100km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, with 200 km/h arriving in less than twelve seconds. 

Such performance will be possible due to a pair of synchronous motors developing more than 600 combined horsepower, while its maximum range will be greater than 500 km in accordance with the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). 

2015 Porsche Mission E Concept
Taycan means “lively young horse” says Porsche, a theme chosen from the Porsche crest. (Photo: Porsche)

Reports are pegging the strongest Taycan closer to Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid’s net horsepower, while two additional power outputs will also be available starting at just over 400 horsepower and another in the mid-500 horsepower range. 

What’s more, the new Taycan will be built off of a unique EV platform architecture dubbed J1, with its lithium-ion battery built right into the floor. 

Additionally, a Mission E photo showing the charge port reveals an 800-volt capability, which if hooked up to corresponding supercharger would mean that 400 km (250 miles) of electricity could be pumped into the Taycan’s battery pack in a mere 15 minutes. 

Now we’ll just have to wait and see how closely the upcoming Taycan resembles the Mission E prototype. We certainly hope Porsche manages to keep true to the concept car’s design roots.

Larger, roomier, faster, more efficient, higher tech, more luxurious, more refined and arguably better looking, the 2019 Acura RDX hits the road this week at just $43,990 plus freight and fees, only adding…

All-new 2019 RDX arrives at Acura Canada retailers from $43,990

2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
The 2019 RDX, shown here in sporty A-Spec trim, goes on sale at Acura Canada retailers this week. (Photo: Acura)

Larger, roomier, faster, more efficient, higher tech, more luxurious, more refined and arguably better looking, the 2019 Acura RDX hits the road this week at just $43,990 plus freight and fees, only adding $1,000 to the price of the outgoing model that enjoyed a very long and successful run. 

“The 2019 Acura RDX is a pure expression of Precision Crafted Performance. This is a development philosophy that puts the driver at the centre of it all,” said Emile Korkor, Brand Leader, Acura Canada. “Our goal from the beginning has been to deliver a perfect balance of engineering, performance, design and luxury to create a truly uncompromising and joyful experience.” 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
Top-line Platinum Elite trim shows a classier side of the new RDX’ personality. (Photo: Acura)

Acura brings the 2019 RDX to the Canadian market with five trim levels, including an unnamed base model, the $46,490 Technology, $49,990 Elite, $50,290 A-Spec, and finally the top-line $54,990 Platinum Elite. 

No matter the trim, the new 2019 RDX relieves the old 3.5-litre V6 in place of a much more efficient 16-valve, DOHC turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with direction injection and, of course, VTEC. Output is rated at 272 horsepower, which is down 7 horsepower from the old V6, but more importantly for an SUV torque is up 28 lb-ft to 280. The end result sees the new 2019 RDX with the strongest base horsepower and torque in the compact luxury SUV class. 

2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
A-Spec trim replaces chrome details with glossy black, adds black 20-inch alloys, and fills out the rear bumper with a sporty diffuser. (Photo: Acura)

The RDX performance advantage is partially due to a low-inertia mono-scroll turbocharger that promotes a wider, fatter torque curve resulting in 40 percent more low-end torque than the outgoing engine, while dual variable timing cams do their part as well. 

Connecting the new engine to the standard torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is an all-new 10-speed automatic transmission with performance-enhancing Grade Logic Control. The new transmission uses Acura’s unique pushbutton gear selector, which is now more fully integrated within the centre console than ever before. Shifting is automatic, or for a more hands-on experience you can shift its gears manually via standard steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
The new RDX looks distinctive no matter the trim. (Photo: Acura)

Also standard, Acura’s Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) lets you to choose between Snow, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes to enhance electric power steering feel and Drive-by-Wire throttle response. 

With a smaller displacement engine and four more forward gears it only makes sense that emissions and fuel economy have made gains too, the latter rated at 11.0 L/100km in the city, 8.6 on the highway and 9.9 combined for all trims but the A-Spec that gets an estimate of 11.3, 9.1 and 10.3 respectively, these numbers comparing favourably against last year’s claimed fuel economy rating of 12.4 city, 8.7 highway and 10.7 combined. 

2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
The new RDX gets Acura’s now trademark Diamond Pentagon grille, which first appeared on the refreshed MDX, then the updated TLX and RLX. (Photo: Acura)

The new drivetrain’s efficiency improvements are further aided by a new idle stop-start system that automatically shuts the engine down when it would otherwise be idling and then immediately reboots it when ready to go. 

Standard with 19-inch alloy wheels and available with 20s as part of the sportiest A-Spec package just noted, the new 2019 RDX rides on a totally new Acura-exclusive platform architecture featuring electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, a fully independent MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension system with 30 mm front and 23 mm rear stabilizer bars. Additionally, the top-line Platinum Elite model receives an Active Damper System to further enhance performance and comfort. 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
Non-A-Spec trims get chrome detailing for a classy premium touch. (Photo: Acura)

As noted, the new RDX is longer, wider and taller than the model it replaces, its dimensions measuring 4,744 mm (186.8 inches) in length, with a 2,750-mm (108.3-inch) wheelbase, 1,900 mm (74.8 inches) in width, with 1,631- and 1,643-mm (64.2- and 64.7-inch) front and rear tracks, and 1,668 mm (65.7 inches) in height. 

This makes the 2019 model 78 mm (3.1 inches) longer than the outgoing RDX, with a 65-mm (2.5-inch) gain in wheelbase that should make a big difference to rear seat roominess, while it’s also 46 mm (1.8 inches) wider for added shoulder and hip space, not to mention a wider track for improved handling, whereas it’s only 31 mm (1.2 inches) taller, improving headroom yet not upsetting manoeuvrability by increasing the centre of gravity. Despite the new SUV’s increased size it’s only gained 86 kilos (189 lbs) of curb weight, so the aforementioned performance gains should still be easy to feel. 

2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
Like with the previous generation and all new Acura models, full LED headlamps come standard. (Acura)

More importantly the 2019 RDX’ increase in size makes for a more comfortable, more useful utility, with maximum cargo volume behind its 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks growing by 142 litres (5.0 cubic feet) to 881 litres (31.1 cubic feet), while the new model offers 82 additional litres (2.9 cubic feet) of luggage space when the second-row is folded flat, at 2,260 litres (79.8 cubic feet). 

That cabin is not only roomier and more comfortable, it’s also been upgraded with higher quality premium finishings, says Acura, with more high-grade soft-touch synthetics, particularly on the instrument panel, doors and centre console, plus hand-wrapped, stitched leather surfaces as well as real open-pore Olive Ash hardwood or genuine brushed aluminum inlays, depending on trim levels. 

2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
The standard taillights feature full LEDs too. (Photo: Acura)

Critical to the acceptance of any new vehicle are digital interfaces, the new RDX anteing up with a large standard 10.2-inch display featuring Apple CarPlay (but no Android Auto, which is interesting being that the entire operating system is Android-based—evidently Android Auto is to be introduced later pending updates), Siri Eyes Free, SMS text message and email functionality, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Wi-Fi tethering, AcuraLink Subscription Services, HD and satellite radio, Bluetooth streaming audio, connectivity via two front USB charging ports (plus two optional USB ports in the rear), AM/FM/MP3/WMA audio with nine speakers including a subwoofer, plus more. Acura has eschewed a more traditional tablet-style touchscreen for a lower console-mounted True Touchpad Interface, which Acura promises is very intuitive. 

2019 Acura RDX A-Spec
The A-Spec interior can be had in this bright and sporty red and black theme. (Photo: Acura)

Along with the impressive load of standard equipment already mentioned, the base RDX continues Acura’s value theme by including standard full low and high beam LED “Jewel Eye” auto-on/off headlights with automatic high beam control, plus LED daytime running lights, LED brake lights and LED taillights, while additional standard highlights include a remote engine starter, proximity keyless access, pushbutton ignition, an acoustic windshield, active noise control, ambient lighting, a 7.0-inch colour TFT multi-information display within the primary gauge cluster, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, dual-zone automatic climate control, a HomeLink garage door opener, a multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, side mirrors with driver recognition, reverse gear tilt-down and integrated LED turn indicators, a standard auto-dimming rearview mirror, 12-way powered front seats including powered lumbar support and four-way adjustable headrests, two-position memory for the driver’s seat and side mirrors, a large panoramic moonroof, a powered tailgate, a capless fueling system, and more. 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
Or possibly something a little classier is more to your liking, the Platinum Elite featuring real hardwood trim. (Photo: Acura)

Also standard is an extensive suite of active and passive safety features including Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Road Departure Mitigation, and Lane Keeping Assist, while all the usual active and passive safety equipment are joined by front knee airbags, hill start assist and tire pressure monitoring. 

Opting for Tech trim means that your RDX will receive yet more safety features including Blind Spot Information with a Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, and traffic sign recognition, while Tech trim also includes front and rear parking sensors, navigation, voice recognition, and a 12-speaker ELS Studio audio upgrade with the rear USB ports noted earlier. 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
The new RDX promises the latest technology no matter the trim. (Photo: Acura)

Upgrading to A-Spec trim includes the aforementioned styling and performance improvements as well as LED fog lights, power-folding side mirrors, a heatable steering wheel, metal sport pedals, unique Alcantara and leather-trimmed upholstery with contrast stitching and seat piping, ventilated front seats, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system. 

The move up to Elite trim means a step back to the 12-speaker audio system and the removal of ventilated front seats and LED fog lamps, but it adds headlamp washers, auto-dimming side mirrors, perimeter/approach puddle lights, perforated leather upholstery, and heated rear outboard seats. 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
A 10.2-inch infotainment display comes standard, featuring Apple CarPlay and plenty of other features. (Photo: Acura)

Lastly, Platinum Elite trim adds back the LED fog lamps, ventilated front seats and 16-speaker 3D stereo, while also including adaptive cornering headlights, a colour head-up display that projects key information onto the windshield ahead of the driver, a surround view parking monitor, a rear camera washer, 16-way powered front seats including lumbar support, thigh extensions and side bolsters, the genuine Olive Ash hardwood trim mentioned earlier, complete with contrast stitching and seat piping, and metallic cargo area garnishes. 

Of course, exterior styling will be key to sales success, and to that end the 2019 RDX is the first model to fully incorporate the Acura Precision Concept design language. We’ve seen the new grille gracing the front of the larger MDX luxury SUV, the TLX sport sedan, and the brand’s flagship RLX luxury sedan, but these were dramatic mid-cycle updates, not wholesale redesigns. 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
No matter the trim, this massive panoramic sunroof comes standard. (Photo: Acura)

The Diamond Pentagon grille appears identical in shape if not size to those already in use by the TLX and RLX, both of which were slightly bolder and more pronounced than the MDX variant, but the lower front fascia of the prototype pulls cues from the Japanese brand’s larger SUV, particularly the pointed body-colour strike-through found hovering above each corner vent. They’re much larger and point in the opposite direction, while these, along with the horizontal row of LED fog lamps just below, flow more naturally into the centre portion of the fascia than the MDX’ vertical stack. Overall, the new RDX lower fascia design works well, particularly how it wraps around the sides of the bumper. 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
A longer wheelbase means rear seat roominess and comfort is increased over the previous generation. (Photo: Acura)

Likewise, a more expressive set of headlamps wrap more fully around the sides of the new model’s front fenders before following the curvature of the front wheel cutouts upward to where they finalize at the hood line. Those fenders are rounder and more organically shaped, flowing naturally into more fluidly sculpted door panels, with the arcing greenhouse culminating at the centre point of the rear quarter window instead of the base. 

The top corner of the new RDX rear design forms a visual “X” where extended chrome window trim butts up against body-colour rooftop and side panels plus glossy black rear window trim extensions, resulting in a unique take on current floating roof trends, while the multi-angled LED taillights look fresh, modern and harmonious with the rest of the design. 

2019 Acura RDX Platinum Elite
The RDX cargo compartment in larger too, both with the 60/40-split rear seatbacks upright and when they’re folded flat. (Photo: Acura)

Lastly, the front and rear bumpers differ depending on trim level, with base and luxury models getting splashes of chrome around the corner vents up front and a matte black apron in the back, and A-Spec trim receiving gloss-black for the former details and a diffuser-style design between the exhaust pipes. 

“The all-new RDX delivers a powerful statement about who we are and where we are headed as a brand,” commented Jon Ikeda, vice president and general manager of Acura, when the RDX Prototype was introduced at the North American International Auto Show earlier this year. “For our customers, the new RDX is a quantum leap forward in design, style and performance, with luxury features and technology that will elevate their ownership experience.” 

The 2019 RDX is now available at your local Acura retailer.

Nissan knows a thing or two about SUVs. In fact, the Japanese brand offers more sport utilities than any other mainstream volume brand.  Nissan currently offers six unique SUV models to Canadian new…

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD Road Test

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The Nissan Qashqai doesn’t show any changes for 2018, but that’s ok because it’s winning over more Canadian subcompact SUV buyers than any of its rivals. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Nissan knows a thing or two about SUVs. In fact, the Japanese brand offers more sport utilities than any other mainstream volume brand. 

Nissan currently offers six unique SUV models to Canadian new car buyers, which amazingly is one model more than Toyota, Ford, Chevy or even Jeep currently had available at the time of writing, plus many more than other rivals. What’s more, its experience building SUVs goes back nearly seven decades. Therefore it only makes sense they’d come up with a solid entry-level model to back up that good name. 

If you previously perused my 2017 Qashqai SL AWD road test you’d already know I’ve become a fan, and I must say this 2018 Qashqai S FWD had me even more enamoured. It’s the Nissan Micra of SUVs, and I mean that in plenty of good ways. The Qashqai is inexpensive, comfortable, solidly built, reasonably well equipped, economical, and plenty of fun to drive, which is exactly the type of small SUV that first-time or fixed-income buyers need. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The little Qashqai offers larger dimensions than most of its competitors, plus a roomier interior. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Proof of this is in the pudding, or more specifically in sales numbers that do a fairly good job of showing a vehicle’s popularity, providing dealers in respective markets can allocate enough to sell. I’m guessing that Nissan Canada’s retailers haven’t experienced much in the way of Qashqai shortages as the new model has quickly jumped into first place with 3,748 units sold over the initial three months of 2018. That number makes it 414 examples more successful than the Subaru Crosstrek, plus a shocking 993 deliveries more impressive than the longtime bestselling Honda HR-V that was down 16.7 percent over the same quarter, which as you can see was also eclipsed by the little Subie SUV that saw its Q1 2018 year-over-year sales rise by a shocking 121.4 percent. Not a bad start to the year for either SUV. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The base model doesn’t get fog lamps or alloy rims, but these wheel covers look quite realistic from a distance. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The numerous keys to the new Qashqai’s success include attractive styling, strong performance, an efficient powertrain, interior comfort and quality, practicality, and generous features for the money, that last point especially true being that the Qashqai S FWD being reviewed here starts at just $19,998 plus freight and fees, as found on CarCostCanada.com (where you can access the most accurate retail pricing including invoice pricing and rebate info), making it the most affordable SUV in Canada—at least until the $17,998 Nissan Kicks arrives this summer. See what I mean about it being the Micra of SUVs? 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
A nice clean taillight design finishes the Qashqai’s rear styling off nicely. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Of course, the Kicks will soon take over that mantle in both price and size. The Qashqai is actually a bit larger than the class average despite its value proposition. It measures 4,379 millimetres (172.4 inches) from nose to tail, with a 2,647-mm (104.2-inch) wheelbase in between, while it spans 1,836 mm (72.3 inches) in width and reaches 1,587 mm (62.5 inches) from the base of its tires to the uppermost point of the roof. 

As you might imagine that extra size creates more space for driver and passengers, plus it provides the most cargo space of all when the seats are laid flat at 1,730 litres (61.1 cubic feet). Its 648-litres (22.9 cubic-foot) capacity with the seats upright is impressive as well, albeit only second in the segment behind the aforementioned HR-V. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The Qashqai’s cabin is finished to a higher level than its sub-$20k price might suggest. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Changing gears, both figuratively and literally, a key reason my Qashqai S FWD started below $20k was its standard six-speed manual transmission. You can get the same SUV with a fully automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT), but it pushes the price up $2,700 to $22,698. The CVT comes standard in the Qashqai’s two upper trims, SV and SL, so if you want the manual you’ll need to stick with the bargain basement S FWD model. Alternatively if you want AWD you’ll need to accept the CVT, that model starting at $24,898. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
Yes, that’s a flat-bottomed sport steering wheel in a base Qashqai. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The SUV I just spent a week with is the base Qashqai S FWD, optioned out with $135 Gun Metallic grey paint. Dealer added accessories aside, that’s it for extras. Still, the Qashqai S was quite livable thanks to a healthy list of standard features that includes heated power-adjustable side mirrors, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, variable intermittent wipers, air conditioning, a 5.0-inch colour infotainment display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone connectivity and audio streaming, text message read and response capability, Siri Eyes Free, four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio, heatable front seats, 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks, a cargo cover, six cargo area tie-down hooks, tire pressure monitoring with Easy Fill Tire Alert, all the expected passive and active safety features, plus more. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
A large colour multi-information display sits between electroluminescent primary gauges. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Walking around this stylish little SUV shows that Nissan only skimped on the wheels, 16-inch steel rims on 215/65 all-season rubber being normal for base models in this class. Nevertheless the silver metallic covers look surprisingly convincing from a distance, while I was even more impressed by the bright chromed grille and side window surrounds, the equally dazzling LED daytime running lights within the projector headlamps, the ultra-slim LED turn signals integrated into the body-colour side mirror housings, the body-colour door handles, body-colour rooftop spoiler, and the SUV’s overall classy appearance in its aforementioned coat of metallic grey. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The centre stack is nicely laid out with plenty of functionality. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Click the substantive switchblade-style key fob, open the door and you’re immediately greeted by a higher level of refinement than anyone could possibly expect for this pauper’s price. The front door uppers are padded and covered with high-quality premium leather-like synthetic, this premium-like surface treatment finishing off the entire dash-top as well. Additionally, the door and centre armrest get comfortable, padded, woven cloth armrests featuring contrast grey stitching, while the seat upholstery receives a similar treatment for the bolsters and an attractive wavy pattern in black and grey for the inserts. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
This 5.0-inch display is not a touchscreen, but its backup camera worked well. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The front and rear doors open nice and wide, making access easy. The little SUV’s height advantage over a car helps in this respect too, and I have to say Nissan does driver’s seats better than a number of others in this class as well. Despite being a base model without the SL’s powered actuation or adjustable lumbar support it was inherently comfortable, with good lower back support and excellent side bolstering. 

Setting up a good driver’s position was easy, and while this might be expected this day and age, peoples’ varying body types are often overlooked. For instance, my longer legs and shorter torso means that I need more telescopic reach than some others, and a few brands aren’t too generous in this respect. Such is not a problem with the Qashqai, allowing me to fit in ideally. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
This is a convenient spot for large smartphones, with good connectivity. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The steering wheel isn’t wrapped in leather, but it’s comfortably thick and padded just the same, plus it’s shaped as if it’s pulled out of a sports car with nicely carved thumb spats and a flat bottom no less, while a cool looking metallic silver trimmed dual lower spoke flows up to visually support the two spokes just above, the one on the left side filled with high-quality audio and multifunction display buttons, and the spoke on the right receiving a simpler assortment of phone controls. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The six-speed shifter is more impressively finished than most will expect. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Framed behind the steering wheel is highly legible chrome-trimmed electroluminescent primary gauge cluster centered by a large colour TFT multi-information display, which once again is something only expected on a higher trim level, while a quick glance over to the piano black lacquer surfaced and chrome-adorned centre stack shows a small yet useful display audio system. It’s not a touchscreen, which made it a bit difficult for navigating between smartphone playlists and podcasts, but it was serviceable enough. 

The same can be said for the nicely laid out manual HVAC interface that sits just below, while the knobs and buttons here and everywhere else were tight fitting and well damped. Still, if this example’s heater wasn’t broken the Qashqai has the worst heating system I’ve experienced in a very long time. You’ve got to crank the temperature dial all the way to the three o’clock position to even make the cabin lukewarm, and if you twist it one notch more it’ll get uncomfortably hot. There was no happy medium. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The Qashqai provides a really well laid out cabin. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Nissan provides a USB charge port, aux plug and a 12-volt charger at the base of the centre stack, just above a tray for your cell phone, which sits right next to a chrome-trimmed electromechanical parking brake. Two-way seat heater rocker switches are positioned toward the rear of the lower console, flanking a deep bin that’s ideal for a larger smartphone. Of course, dual cupholders are integrated within the lower console too, as is a storage compartment under the centre armrest, and once again it’s all put together well and looks more upscale than the Qashqai’s entry-level price should allow for. 

Nissan also houses a handy console overhead, featuring a felt-lined sunglasses holder and LED reading lights for both front occupants. Even the sunvisors are finished nicely, including the lidded vanity mirrors. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The driver’s seat is inherently comfortable. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

It’s normal for taller, larger drivers to shy away from the subcompact SUV class, but I think they should give the Qashqai a try, as there’s a lot of room available in every direction. The same goes for front and rear passengers, with the back compartment providing more than enough space for my medium-build five-foot-eight frame when sitting behind a driver’s seat that was set up for my height. In fact, I had about five inches remaining ahead of my knees plus loads of space to move my feet around while wearing boots. Additionally, there was about four inches left above my head and another five or so next to my shoulder and hips. I’m not going to say the rear seats were as comfortable as those up front, because that would be difficult to match, but they certainly were supportive, and even provided some side bolstering. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
The rear seating area is quite spacious for the class. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Back in the driver’s seat, the six-speed manual transmission lever is as nicely finished as the previously noted steering wheel, with a black lacquer trimmed shift knob, a leather-like boot, and a satin silver and black lacquered surround. Again, this could be in a premium sports car, let alone a bargain-basement subcompact SUV. 

Even more importantly it’s a well-sorted gearbox too, complemented by a free revving 16-valve, DOHC, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine making 141 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque. Off-the-line performance is pretty good if you get deep enough into the throttle and let the revs climb before shifting, but of course that’s not the best way to save fuel. Go easy and it’ll pay you back with a claimed 10.0 L/100km in the city, 8.1 on the highway and 9.2 combined, which seems pretty decent until seeing that the same FWD setup with the CVT gets an estimated 8.8 city, 7.3 highway and 8.1 combined. Even the AWD CVT combination does better at 9.0 city, 7.5 highway and 8.4 combined, but I certainly couldn’t complain despite Vancouver’s high pump prices. 

2018 Nissan Qashqai S FWD
Cargo volume is class-leading with the seats down. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Once the Qashqai gets up to speed it’s thoroughly engaging and fun to fling through the corners, feeling a lot more like a compact hatchback then anything traditionally SUV-like. Of course, it’s aforementioned ride height advantage and subsequent good view of the road ahead and surrounding area reminds that it’s indeed an SUV, while its expansive greenhouse leaves almost no blind spots at all, but it still drives like a little sports car in comparison to most utilities. 

With such a willing engine that’s certainly fun to take to its limit, and a shifter that slips so easily into each gear, plus clutch take-up that’s just as easy and light yet positive and engaging, speed can ramp up quickly. Fortunately the Qashqai’s steering is direct and responsive too, while the little SUV’s high-speed stability is actually very good for such a small vehicle thanks to that relatively long wheelbase mentioned earlier. Likewise, braking is excellent, the Qashqai coming standard with ABS-enhanced four-wheel discs that only had to stop 1,425 kilos (3,142 lbs) of as-tested curb weight, resulting in good all-round performance that delivers way more enjoyment then its paltry price should. 

That last point pretty well sums up the entire vehicle too, being that the 2018 Nissan Qashqai delivers way more of everything expected of an SUV priced so reasonably. No wonder it’s leading its class in sales.

Honda’s new design language has fully taken shape in the latest Accord, this popular midsize model fully redesigned from the ground up for 2018. It’s the longest, leanest, sportiest Accord yet,…

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring Road Test

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
Thanks to a stunning redesign the 2018 Honda Accord was the only high-volume car in its class to grow sales last year. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Honda’s new design language has fully taken shape in the latest Accord, this popular midsize model fully redesigned from the ground up for 2018. It’s the longest, leanest, sportiest Accord yet, and follows many of the current Civic four-door’s coupe-like styling cues, but to my eyes it’s much more pleasingly orchestrated. 

This near top-tier version of the Accord’s ritziest Touring trim line has a bit more chrome than all lower grades, excepting the EX-L, which not only brightens the leading edge of the grille and hood before striking through the swept-back wrap-around headlights as done with all models, not to mention the upper portion of the side window surrounds and the slightly angular albeit mostly ovoid tailpipes in back, but also garnishes the otherwise body-colour door handles as well as the extended rocker mouldings below the doors, the latter metal brightwork sweeping upward to each corner of the rear bumper. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
The new Accord has a distinct four-door coupe-like profile, and a thoroughly unique design front to back. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The headlights dazzle as well. Their trademark jewel-like vertical pattern signifies standard LEDs, albeit just for low beam use in all trims but Touring that gets full low and high beam LED clusters. Their outer edges are surrounded in LED signature driving lights, with all but base models visually supported by a narrow set of LED fog lamps integrated within the lower fascia below. Additionally, wafer thin LED turn signals get fitted to the side mirror housings of all trims above the same base LX. The LED taillights are standard, plus their dramatic yet elegant C-like shape is completely unique in an industry that oftentimes isn’t too creative. The lower portions aren’t just reflectors either, but join the upper sections by lighting up with LEDs to provide a stylish nighttime statement. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
Many of the new Accord’s design cues have been pulled from the highly successful Civic, although the sum of the parts appears more refined in this newer package. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Honda has taken the Accord’s new-edge design inside as well, toning the drama down slightly albeit still delivering a stylish, high-tech experience. For instance, the standard primary gauge package includes a partially configurable 7.0-inch colour TFT display in place of the usual mechanical tachometer, and it’s so realistic I actually thought the entire cluster was analogue when first sliding behind the wheel. In fact, about 60 percent of the left-side cluster is a high-resolution multi-information display that defaults to a tachometer, but otherwise can be used for myriad functions. The right-side speedometer spins via conventional means, while the temperature and fuel indicators to each side are separate backlit gauges. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
LED headlamps are standard, but this Touring example gets full high and low beam LEDs. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Looking back, the outgoing Accord included twin digital displays to each side of an analogue speedometer, with a small multi-info display at centre, and while this was bright and colourful, especially in the Accord Hybrid Touring model last tested, this new design provides a larger more useful digital display. 

Likewise, Honda has simplified its main centre stack-mounted infotainment system too, with its previous two-screen approach now reduced to one single 8.0-inch touch capacitive display. This makes sense on so many levels, especially cost, but also from a user experience perspective as the new system is much easier to live with. It starts with a newer more advanced touchscreen featuring most peoples’ preferred tablet-style gloss finish, which improves contrast levels and depth of colour, while graphics now mimic Apple’s colourful iPhone/iPad interface, resulting in a simple layout that’s easy on the eyes. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
Believe it or not, this isn’t the Sport model. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

On that note it incorporates standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, Siri Eyes Free compatibility, plus you can modulate many of the system’s applications via smartphone/tablet-style tap, pinch and/or swipe gesture controls. 

Smartphones in mind, I think most will agree that CarPlay works better than Android Auto, but Android fans with the latest gear can feel good about the availability of NFC (Near Field Communication), which comes standard on all trims above base (look for the stylized “N” on the dash trim ahead of the front passenger), making connectivity easier than ever. The rest of us will need to make do with standard HandsFreeLink, which gave me and my cheap but serviceable Huawei GR5 no issue. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
These big, beautiful 19-inch alloys come as part of Touring trim. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The standard parking monitor was clear and bright, plus offered multiple angles to choose from, while dynamic guidelines made slotting into a parking spot easier. Interestingly, Honda doesn’t include an overhead parking monitor as part of its top-line offering, but instead provides a digital version that lights up coloured warnings when getting too close to an object, this working in conjunction with audible beeps from my Touring trimmed model’s front and rear parking sensors. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
The Accord’s LED taillight design is completely unique in the industry. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Touring trim also adds satellite-linked navigation with detailed mapping, a system that’s worked brilliantly in previous Honda models and still does in the new infotainment system, while Honda’s bilingual voice recognition is more capable of understanding my miscellaneous utterings than average, or at least it was in English (my French is so bad it would’ve no doubt send us in the wrong direction). 

Touring models also include a wireless charging pad within a lidded bin at the base of the centre stack, this also filled with a 2.5-amp USB charging port and a 12-volt plug, while there’s a second USB charging port in the storage bin under the centre armrest, plus in EX-L trims and above you’ll get two more USB ports on the backside of the front console for rear passengers. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
This is by far the best Accord interior to date. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Now that we’re talking Touring features, a shortlist of exclusive items not yet mentioned include ambient door handle lighting, rain-sensing wipers, a head-up display that projects key info onto the windshield ahead of the driver, Blind Spot Information (BSI) with a Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, ventilated front seats, HD radio, an AT&T Wi-Fi hotspot, HondaLink Subscription Services (such as Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Auto Collision Notification, Emergency Call, a Personal Data Wipe, Remote Start, Security Alarm Alert, Stolen Vehicle Locator Service, Find My Car, Remote Lock and Unlock, Geofence Alert, Speed Alert, Destination by Voice, Personal Concierge, etc), plus more. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
Sharp contemporary styling, high quality and the latest technology make for a serious mid-size contender. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

In addition, unique features the Touring model shares with the Accord Sport include 19-inch alloy wheels on 235/40 all-seasons (base Accords get 17-inch rims and rubber), a Sport mode (when the Sport comes with an automatic transmission that’s standard with EX-L and Touring trims), and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters (ditto). 

Additional items pulled up to the Touring from lesser trims include an electromechanical parking brake, remote engine start, an ECON mode, a front wiper de-icer, an acoustic windshield, Active Noise Control (ANC), a heatable leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel (the heated part not available with the new 2018 Toyota Camry), a leather shift knob, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an overhead sunglasses holder, a HomeLink garage door opener, a powered moonroof, heated front and rear outboard seats, a driver attention monitor, a 12-way powered driver’s seat with memory, a four-way powered front passenger’s seat, perforated leather upholstery, 452-watt AM/FM/MP3/WMA/satellite audio with 10 speakers including a subwoofer, Bluetooth streaming audio, SMS text message and email reading capability, Wi-Fi tethering, the HondaLink Assist Automatic Emergency Response System, tire pressure monitoring, hill start assist, all the usual active and passive safety features including front knee airbags, convenient capless refueling, and the list goes on. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
Analogue or digital? Actually it’s both, with about 60 percent of the gauge cluster made from a TFT display. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

I purposely left a number of items from the last list of features because I wanted to highlight some of the most impressive kit pulled up from the base model, particularly proximity access with pushbutton ignition and filtered dual-zone automatic climate control, items not normally seen so low in the trim level hierarchy. 

Even better, the Accord’s standard Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance systems includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), auto high beams, and traffic sign recognition, plus when upgrading to the automatic transmission Adaptive Cruise Control comes along for the ride. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
The centre stack is a breath of fresh air for those who prefer simple, elegant solutions to complex problems. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

This is an impressive safety-first attitude from Honda Canada, and is no doubt partially responsible for its IIHS Top Safety Pick status (when upgrading to those full LED headlamps mentioned earlier) and best-possible five-star NHTSA rating, but it’s probably also why the base Accord’s price has mushroomed by $1,900 from $24,690 to $26,590 plus freight and fees, plus might also account for the redesign model’s slight drop in sales volume since taking over from the outgoing car. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
The multi-angle parking camera includes an overhead graphic with coloured warning alerts when nearing obstacles. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Normally a fresh new model, especially one so attractive and obviously improved overall, provides an initial bump in retail activity, but not so for the 2018 Accord. To be clear, Canadian market year-over-year Accord sales grew by 4.2 percent during calendar year 2017, but it all happened in just five of the first eight months. The last four months of mostly new 2018 Accord availability saw deliveries slide by 26.1 percent, while the first four months of calendar year 2018 saw Accord sales down once again, albeit only by 8.3 percent. Of course, many factors can cause such a slowdown, from a retail price increase as mentioned, to fewer fleet sales, not to mention overall market conditions (the Canadian new car market only grew by 1.2 percent during Q1 of 2018, compared to 9.4 percent over the first three months of 2017), but either way this new Accord hasn’t provided the upward swing in sales momentum that a new model usually does. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
All of the infotainment graphics are excellent, and its functions work faster and more effectively than previous Honda systems. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

To the Accord’s credit, neither has the new Camry that saw its 2017 sales drop by 7 percent last year, although it’s seen a slight gain of 2.5 percent so far this year, while the third-place Ford Fusion drove off the proverbial cliff with Canadian sales down by 32.5 percent through 2017, plus a further 5.8 percent over the first four months of 2018. The fourth place Chevrolet Malibu experienced similar results with a 2017 year-over-year sales downturn of 29 percent, while the fifth-place Hyundai Sonata “only” fell by 23 percent. The Nissan Altima and Kia Optima didn’t lose as much, but merely because they didn’t have as far to fall, leaving the Volkswagen Passat as the only mid-size sedan to join the Accord with positive year-over-year gains in 2017. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
This dual-zone auto climate control system is standard, and beautifully organized. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

The new Accord certainly doesn’t suffer from a quality perspective, with the entire dash top made from high-grade soft-touch synthetic, as are the front door uppers, while rich padded leatherette gets used for the door inserts and armrests, plus premium levels of stitched leatherette padding are added to each side of the lower console, which covers enough area to protect the driver and front passenger’s knees. Additionally, the faux woodgrain and metal inlays are denser and more realistic than in previous Accords, giving the new car higher end appeal. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
At the base of the centre stack is a lidded bin filled with smartphone charging and connectivity hardware. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

All of the switchgear is superb too, with the door window controls finished in a lovely metallic edging, as is the toggle for the powered mirrors and the surrounds for the memory seats. The same metal can be found throughout the rest of the cabin, whether we’re talking buttons, knobs and rockers like the those found on the auto HVAC interface and electromechanical parking brake lever, or just the trim around the rest of the centre stack and lower console, or for that matter the steering wheel which is beautifully shaped and covered in wonderfully soft stitched leather, not to mention backed by a set of satin silver finished paddle shifters. All of the steering wheel switchgear is extremely upscale too, matching many premium sector players. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
If you see this automatic shift lever in a 2018 Accord, take note that it’s fitted with Honda’s new 1.5-litre turbo and CVT combination. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Most should find the interior design appealing, if not quite as creatively designed as the aforementioned Camry. I certainly found it more comfortable than its archrival, with a driver’s seat you sit within instead of on top of, and as part of that a lower front squab that nicely cups under the hamstrings for better support, plus greater reach from the telescopic steering wheel for improved ergonomics. Still, while the old Accord fit me like a glove, my long-legged, short torso body type forced my arms to reach too far to the steering wheel. It wasn’t as dramatic a stretch as the Camry, but more steering column adjustment would be better. 

On the positive, the driver’s seatback provides true four-way powered lumbar support for up and down control instead of just two-way in and out adjustment like the Toyota, not to mention the much pricier Lexus ES that isn’t as comfortable as the Accord for my body type either, while I found the side bolsters did a good job of holding me in place during hard cornering. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
That tiny white speck on the left side of the impressively finished faux wood inlay is an “N” signifying NFC, or Near Field Communication. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

While an ideal opportunity to segue into driving dynamics, I can’t forget about those in back that are similarly supported by ideally shaped outboard seats featuring excellent lower back bolstering and well designed cushions under the legs. Legroom is incredibly generous too, with enough space left over to fully stretch out when the front seat was positioned for my five-foot-eight medium-build frame. I had ample side-to-side space too, plus headroom was more than ample for my height and would be for folks that are many inches taller, while a comfortable centre armrest and three-way outboard seat warmers added to my Touring model’s luxury. This said the heatable seats took a long time to warm up, both in back and up front. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
If these seats were in an Acura we’d be impressed. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

As you might expect the trunk is nicely carpeted, is large at 473 litres (16.7 cubic feet), and features the usual 60/40 split for longer cargo, but I still wish Honda would incorporate a more useful 40/20/40 three-way division, or at least a centre pass-through for families who ski. 

Now that I’m grumbling, I was a bit disappointed there was no panoramic sunroof either, not that they’re normally included in this class, but the Accord just looks so upscale I expected it. Other shortcomings include incandescent reading lights instead of LEDs, and a lack of padded soft-touch door uppers in the rear. Again, not many competitors provide the same level of luxury in back as up front, but it would’ve been a nice nod to near premium buyers who prefer flying under the radar when driving their luxury ride. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
We know we’re spoiled, but where’s our massive panoramic sunroof? (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

On more of an annoyance note, I’ve become so familiar with touch-sensitive controls from Honda that I kept pressing the “HOME” graphic on the left top portion of the infotainment display instead of the narrow button just below. The same setup is used for all of the other functions, and being that these buttons are not lit up it’s an easier mistake to make at night. I’m not sure why Honda didn’t just go with touch-capacitive switchgear to each side of the screen, being that we’re all so used to it from our smartphones and tablets. As it is, most of us only struggle with touch-sensitive slider-style volume and tuning controls, which Honda has thankfully done away with by adding nice big rotating dials, but I personally would’ve appreciated touch controls for everything else. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
The rear passenger compartment comes close to matching the refinement and comfort of the one up front. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

Those familiar with Honda’s top-line Odyssey or Pilot and therefore looking for an unorthodox set of gear selector buttons on the lower console will need to move up to top-tier Accord Sport 2.0 or Touring 2.0 trims, which not only feature a state-of-the-art 10-speed automatic transmission connecting to those buttons but also a turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-litre four-cylinder good for 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Instead, my tester featured a more conventional gear lever actuating a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which in turn found motivation from a 1.5-litre turbo-four with 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox comes standard and can also be had on both Sport trims, but I’ve got to imagine the take-rate on this won’t be high. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
Even large rear seat passengers should be extremely comfortable. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

My CVT-equipped tester also had a Sport mode as noted earlier, and it really helped the smaller engine accelerate quickly. What’s more, despite the transmission being a CVT shifts were quite crisp, while it held its chosen gear between intervals and responded well to DIY paddle-shift actuation. At the same time it’s a wonderfully smooth transmission that’s ideal for this type of large mid-size sedan. 

While pleasantly surprised by how well the base engine and CVT performed, the Accord’s agility around corners was expected, as the popular sedan has long been one of the segment’s best handlers. This said I like the way the new model drives on the open highway better than the outgoing car, particularly its seemingly effortless cruising capability once lifting off the throttle, its lack of kinetic drag shocking. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
The Accord provides a big, roomy trunk. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

This is especially good for fuel economy, the model I tested having a highly efficient 8.2 L/100km city, 6.8 highway and 7.6 combined rating with ECON button engaged, making it the second-most miserly 2018 Accord available, the stingiest being the base LX model with the CVT that gets a claimed 7.9, 6.3 and 7.2 respectively. Of note, the LX and Sport 1.5 with the six-speed manual are rated at 8.9 city, 6.7 highway and 7.9 combined, the Sport 2.0 with the same transmission is claimed to get 10.7, 7.3 and 9.2, whereas the Sport and Touring with the 2.0 and 10-speed auto are good for 10.4, 7.4 and 9.1. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
We’d like to see Honda join the Europeans by offering more convenient 40/20/40 split rear seatbacks. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

So how does it compare to the outgoing Accord? Last year’s naturally aspirated 2.4-litre four, CVT combo was good for 9.2 L/100km city, 6.9 highway and 8.2 combined when configured similarly to my 2018 tester, so they’ve made big progress, while the previous manual was only capable of 10.4, 7.4 and 9.0 respectively. 

How about that Camry I’ve mentioned a number of times? The Accord’s chief rival gets 8.5, 6.1 and 7.4 when mated up to its base four-cylinder, eight-speed auto model, which kind of splits the difference between Honda’s manual and CVT model. 

Despite losing market share in recent years (sales have slipped by 6.6 percent since 2015 and fallen by more than 47 percent since its Canadian high of 25,814 units in 2004), it’s been a good year for the new Accord thanks to earning the 2018 North American Car of the Year award in January, the Automobile Journalist Association of Canada’s 2018 Canadian Car of the Year award, one of three 2018 ALG Residual Value awards won by Honda (the other two were for the Fit and Odyssey) and more, but unfortunately trophies don’t satisfy shareholders. 

2018 Honda Accord 1.5T Touring
Backyard mechanics are clearly out of bounds in here, with even the new Accord’s less potent 1.5T a sophisticated bit of kit. (Photo: Karen Tuggay, Canadian Auto Press)

To put smiles back on their faces the Accord will need to keep holding its own while the potentially even more profitable Honda Pilot crawls up and out of the less popular portion of the mid-size SUV segment, where much of the market gains are being made. I’m not going to tell Honda how to run its business, but I’m willing to guess if they were to design a Pilot to look as good as this Accord they’d go a long way toward rectifying the situation. 

Yes, the 2018 Honda Accord is one fine looking mid-size sedan that deserves its recent uptick in popularity. If you appreciate the sleeker, sportier styling of a four-door coupe-like sedan and enjoy the more engaging driving dynamics brought about by being closer to the ground, not to mention the benefits of fuel economy this type of lighter weight vehicle allows, I recommend the new Accord over its peers. In my opinion the Accord is the mid-size sedan to own.