| MORE TEST FEST COVERAGE |
| Pick-Up | Nov 15, 2006 |
| SUV / CUV over $60,000 | Nov 14, 2006 |
| SUV / CUV $35,000 - $60,000 | Nov 13, 2006 |
| SUV / CUV under $35,000 | Nov 11, 2006 |
| Convertible | Nov 10, 2006 |
| Sport / performance car over $50,000 | Nov 9, 2006 |
| Sport / performance car under $50,000 | Nov 8, 2006 |
| Prestige car over $75,000 | Nov 7, 2006 |
| Luxury car under $50,000 | Nov 6, 2006 |
| Family car over $30,000 | Nov 5, 2006 |
| Family car $22,000 - $30,000 | Nov 4, 2006 |
| Small car over $18,000 | Nov 3, 2006 |
| The most coveted parking space in the country | Nov 1, 2006 |
| Writers' predictions for the best new cars of 2007 | Nov 1, 2006 |
This category represents one of the most important markets in Quebec for automakers. This year, there were five new vehicles to evaluate. The manufacturers had sent mid- and high-end models they believe customers like best. Here they are in alphabetical order, with my impressions for each of them:
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| (Photo: Honda) |
The
Honda Fit LX with manual gearbox appealed to me because of its road grip, handling, comfort and build quality. The driving position could be improved. The rear seats and the cargo area are obvious strengths.
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| (Photo: Hyundai) |
Hyundai Accent GS Premium with autobox. The test car was a 3-door hatchback (the only 3-door model in this category), which didn't help in terms of easy access and passenger comfort. The ride is comfortable, the traction is decent and the list of features is interesting. These are the highlights.
 |
| (Photo: Nissan) |
The
Nissan Versa hatchback with 4-speed automatic transmission (not the continuously variable one) made a strong impression with regards to handling and passenger comfort. However, the ergonomics of the driving position and controls could be improved.
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| (Photo: General Motors) |
The
Pontiac Wave Wi is a practical, urban sedan. Nothing really stands out or really disappoints, except the lack of ABS brakes. Because it is more spacious than the others, the Wave does not handle as well.
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| (Photo: Toyota) |
The
Toyota Yaris sedan with 4-speed automatic transmission will have to improve to keep up with its rivals. Sure, the car is spacious and has a trunk, but the drivetrain is disappointing: noisy engine, slow transmission. It is however comfortable and stable. The instruments should be more oriented toward the driver, even if they're located on top of the center stack. The pedals should also be revised. Quality and reliability are no longer enough to beat the competition.
