2020 Acura RDX
Sporty RDX scores high with consumers

It has been a year since Acura introduced its third generation RDX compact luxury SUV and the desirable new features that attracted buyers then have now become solid selling points - great styling, sporty performance and a spacious, well-appointed interior. In fact, the new RDX has been so successful Acura didn’t mess with it for 2020. The only change is the addition of a new exterior colour: Platinum White.

The only engine offered continues to be a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder that churns out 272 horsepower and 280 poundfeet of torque. It is enough power to deliver impressive acceleration and smooth cruising performance, thanks to the 10-speed automatic transmission, which makes the most efficient use of that output. Acura’s excellent SH-AWD (Super Handling All- Wheel Drive) system is standard equipment across the lineup.

The interior design has a high-quality look, with premium materials and a solid build, enhanced by a full range of convenience and advanced technology features as standard equipment. Behind the second row of seats, there is plenty of room for cargo, while overhead there is a panoramic sunroof.

The RDX has earned top marks for safety. The 2020 edition has been given a perfect five-star rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, while the 2019 model was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

AT A GLANCE

PRICE: Starting at $46,196

POWERTRAIN: 2.0-litre, 16-valve, direct injection, DOHC, VTEC® turbocharged 4-cylinder; 10-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic Control and paddle shifters

POWER/TORQUE: 272 hp/280 lb.-ft.

FUEL CONSUMPTION L/100 KM: 11.0 city, 8.6 highway, 9.9 combined

2021 Toyota Venza
Stylish new Venza features fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain

The 2021 Toyota Venza sets a new standard for mid-size crossovers, delivering sedan-like driving comfort plus the versatility of an all-wheel-drive utility vehicle. It also takes fuel efficiency to a new level in the segment with a gas/electric hybrid system as the sole powertrain offering.

Toyota’s electronic on-demand all-wheel drive is also standard equipment. This highly efficient system maximizes the advantages of the hybrid powertrain by using a separate rear-mounted electric motor, instead of the conventional transfer case, to power the rear wheels. It works seamlessly, distributing up to 80 percent of the torque output to the rear wheels when needed.

Inside the well-appointed cabin, there is plenty of space for up to five persons and their things. There is 1,027 litres of cargo space behind the second row of seating. The hybrid system’s new compact lithium-ion battery pack is small enough to fit under the rear seats, so it doesn’t take up any cargo or passenger space.

The Venza’s standard safety package includes eight airbags and Toyota’s Star Safety System featuring enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, anti-lock braking and Smart Stop technology. Standard wheel/tire packages start with 18-inch, multi-spoke, two-tone alloy wheels for the Venza LE trim, while the XLE and Limited are fitted with 19-inch multi-spoke super chrome finished alloy wheels.

AT A GLANCE

PRICE: TBA

POWERTRAIN: Gas/electric hybrid: DOHC 2.5-litre four-cylinder with VVT-I and three electric motors; electronically controlled CVT, electronic all-wheel drive.

POWER: 219 net hp

FUEL CONSUMPTION L/100 KM: 5.9 (est.)