Acura’s Mood Roads is a hit at the Sundance Film Festival, in Park City, Utah.

Mood Roads offers attendees a full-sensory virtual driving experience, using brainwave technology to tap into 30 of the driver’s emotional, cognitive and physical inputs to create a unique environment with landscape, color and music changing in real time to reflect the driver’s moods.

This first-of-its kind application is designed to showcase the emotional elements of a virtual drive experience using bio-sensory feedback. Guests enter a spherical motion simulator equipped with a performance driver’s seat and 30 biometric sensors, measuring 24 integration points including the user’s brainwaves, heartbeat and facial expressions. Once buckled in, guests embark on a journey customized in real time as landscape, color, music and speed all change based on the driver’s mood as interpreted by the biometric sensors.

Mood Roads takes each guest down a virtual road in an abstract environment, bringing to life the road’s curves, twists and turns through the motion simulator, all responding in real-time to the driver’s emotional, cognitive and physical inputs. The visual journey is viewed by the driver as a large projection on the inside of the sphere, accompanied by music specifically composed for differing experiences and other sound effects inspired by Acura vehicles, including the NSX supercar. It is a highly personal 90-second journey with no two experiences being identical.

“The Sundance Film Festival is both a platform for groundbreaking filmmaking and a showcase of innovative film technology, and the Acura Mood Roads experience offers the tech-minded audience a unique merging of automotive and virtual technology they have never experienced before,” said Jon Ikeda, vice president & general manager of Acura.

keith [dot] morgan [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca

by Hayley Thomas

“The pleasure of cruising the coastline was amplified by the views offered from the RDX’s raised stance.”

Exploring beautiful British Columbia for the first time should enjoyed in the comfort and views offered by a high-end sport-utility vehicle.

Having recently moved to the province from Nova Scotia, it was time for my parents to make their first trek to this side of the country, so the pressure was on to find an appropriate vehicle to show off my new ‘home’.

A 2015 Acura RDX was available in the media fleet: Its 273-horsepower, 3.5 litre V-6 engine, along with a 6-speed automatic transmission, persuaded me it would get us where we needed to go.

Hayley Thomas, Driveway Contributor

Hayley Thomas, Driveway Contributor

My parents, Nadine and George Thomas, started their trip in Vancouver, in the heart of the city. On the first evening I offered to take them for a drive around town to show them the hot spots. The RDX offers soft leather seats featuring 8-way power adjustability, coupled with a very sleek and stylish exterior, which incorporates an aerodynamic efficient body. To say we felt cool driving it through the city, with music pumping from the 360-watt audio system, is an understatement.

Within a few days, we were on our way to explore Salt Spring Island. At this point, it was time for my father to get his hands on the wheel to see what the RDX was “really made of.”

Our joint verdict is the RDX offers great handling with an agile yet secure feel – the vehicle integrates Amplitude Reactive Dampers that analyze the driver’s input against the road conditions to adjust the drive to the road you’re travelling.

Like most dads, mine never needs directions. However, when we were on our way to the Saturday Market we “somehow” ended up on a dead-end back road. Luckily, the GPS navigation system gave my mum a much-needed break from map reading. The system has the ability to pinpoint your location almost anywhere in North America, and is equipped with two options of relaying your route: either by voice or a real-time moving map. This feature is a sure-fire way of ensuring you get to where you need to go, while removing any second-guessing from the equation.

We continued our adventures on Vancouver Island from Nanaimo through the Vancouver Island mountain ranges. At this point, I once again took over driving without the hassle of re-setting my seat preferences; the settings were conveniently programmed into the seat position memory. Once back on the road I really put the pedal to the metal – the acceleration was brisk and delivered plenty of power. With that much power, typically comes a hefty bill at the gas station and not because of all the ice cream sandwiches purchased there. However, a comparison check shows the RDX offers fuel efficiency is rivalled by very few luxury SUVs. Given the often-steep gas prices we see these days, the RDX’s fuel economy on average is 10.6 litres/100 km, allowing motorists to enjoy summer drives guilt-free.

The pleasure of cruising the coastline was amplified by the views offered from the RDX’s raised stance. Driving as the sun dipped below the horizon meant it was time to open the moonroof. The moonroof is easily operated with a one-touch power mechanism along with a visor that actively reduces the vibrations and noise associated with having a window open, allowing for a smooth and noise-free ride.

Last, but certainly not least, I had long been awaiting my parents’ arrival with the anticipation of finally properly learning how to parallel park. Much to my surprise, the Acura RDX provides all of the tools required to successfully complete this complex and sometimes dangerous (when I’m behind the wheel) task. The vehicle includes a multi-angle rear-view camera along with reverse tilt dual mirrors that provide curb views. I can now parallel park in the city without chagrin – hold onto your curbside parking spots, fellow motorists.


 

2015 Acura RDX

Base price: $41,390

Price as tested, Tech edition: $44,390 – plus $1,995 freight & pdi

“Drinking and driving don’t mix but for this Okanagan wine fan, the reward came at day’s end…”
(more…)

“Credit must go to Acura for making a new, totally different kind of car.”

Acura has replaced two cars in its fleet with just one – gone are the (old) TLX and TL, replaced by the TLX.

This car is offered with a wide array of engine and transmission choices in front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD). The price starts at $34,990 and runs up to $49,642, which means it will appeal to a wide range of buyers.

The TLX is based on the Honda Accord and comes with a base 4-cylinder engine with FWD and all-wheel steering. This model also comes with an all-new 8-speed duel clutch automatic. Then the V6 equipped cars can be ordered with FWD and all wheel steering or AWD. This is where it gets confusing; the AWD cars come with a different, 9-speed automatic.

Looks

To be honest, taking two cars and mashing them into one is beyond confusion.

The length of the TLX is shorter than both the older cars but the wheelbase is longer than the TLX and the same as the old TL. Acura has stuck with the shield grille design that has received much criticism over the years. However, it toned down the blunt and edgy look of the grille and incorporated tasty looking duel LED headlamps, yet another signature of the brand.

The front and rear overhangs are nice and tight making this car look compact and athletic. Wheel sizes range from 17-inches to 18-inches depending on the trim level. All models come with a rear view camera and higher trim levels are fitted with a cross-traffic monitoring system that alerts the driver of incoming traffic when backing out of a parking spot.

Inside

Acura and Honda are moving towards a two-screen centre console for radio and entertainment information and navigation and backup camera capabilities. This looks first rate but it can take a while to master the quirks of the system.

The rest of the cabin is covered in soft-touch materials, first rate fit and finish and a sporty design that is eye catching. Cars equipped with the optional 9-speed transmission get a different shift controller in the between the seats. This is unique take on something that has been working perfectly well for decades. Sometimes change for change sake is not better. The rear of the TLX isn’t the biggest in the mid-size class; cars like the VW Passat dwarf the legroom in the TLX. The base model comes with faux leather and heated front seats. A tech package is optional and it includes a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats, features that come standard on the Tech package V6 model.

Drive

The base engine is a 2.4L direct injection 4-cylinder with 206hp and all the power goes to the front wheels though an all-new 8-speed duel clutch automatic. In addition FWD models of both the base 4-cylinder and V6 equipped cars gets Acura’s Precision All Wheel Steering (PAWS) system as standard equipment. This actually turns the rear wheels, ever so slightly, for slow speed maneuvering or high-speed stability. The V6 is a 290hp 3.5L unit with an optional AWD system that replaces the PAWS system. This model also gets ta different 9-speed ZF automatic that is shared other automakers like Chrysler and Range Rover. This is the car I test drove and it radically changes the character of the TLX compared to the old TL AWD. The transmission wants to shift to the highest gear possible to conserve fuel but the downside is the more sedate driving experience. The more powerful 3.7L found in the TL is no longer offered. The TLX feels solid and capable but very different from the older cars it replaces. Don’t expect more of the same; this is a whole new product.

Verdict

Credit must go to Acura for making a new, totally different kind of car. The TLX is nothing like the cars it replaces, which is good and bad. There is certainly a lot packed into all trim levels and at a price that is attractive but sometimes change has one yearning for the good old days. The 4-cylinder cars provide a gateway into the premium experience but buyers might want to try the beautiful V6 equipped Honda Accord as a reference; it might actually be a better buy. The V6 cars, especially the AWD model is not nearly as responsive as the old car. It doesn’t feel as solid or as performance oriented as the last car and the 9-speed automatic can feel very busy at times. The biggest problem will be telling customers what this car is. There are so many different engine, transmission and packages that it could confuse the customer.

Contact: zack [dot] spencer [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca


 

The Lowdown

Power: 2.4L 4-cylinder with 209hp or 3.5L V6 with 290hp

Fill-up: 11.2L/7.5L/100km (city/highway V6 AWD)

Sticker price: $34,990-$49,642

“If you are in the market for a fantastic, very well-equipped small SUV with plenty of luxury touches then the RDX should be on your list.”

When one manufacturer comes out with a vehicle, you can be sure that the other manufacturers will match the equipment and price, almost to the dollar with their own products.

There are exceptions to every rule and the Acura RDX is one of those exceptions. The value that this entry-level premium SUV offers is so good, it is hard to find a vehicle that can compete on price, features and overall ease of use. Based on the hot-selling Honda CR-V, Acura takes what is good about that vehicle and transforms it into an Acura, full of luxury touches, more power and refinement that makes it the best value in the hyper competitive compact luxury SUV space.

Looks 

With every great deal there is usually one area that lets down the overall package and in the case of the RDX it is exterior styling. The Acura grille is less intrusive than the previous model but it might be rather bland. Wheel sizes are kept to 18-inches, even the optional sport wheels are only 18-inches. The rest of the RDX is inoffensive but not striking either. The size and shape is perfect for most buyers looking for a compact SUV, with large easy to use doors. The RDX is sold in only two trim levels; the base is $41,390, almost dollar-for-dollar the same starting price as all other small luxury SUVs. It is the optional Tech package that makes this a steal. Fully loaded, the RDX Tech is just $3000 more at $44,390.

Inside

Acura takes the CR-V’s selling points like a roomy cabin, flat rear floor, automatic folding rear seats and pumps up the features. The dash is nicely arranged with much higher trim and finish on the dash, doors and armrests. Standard features include heated leather seats, power moon roof, push button start and a multi angle rearview camera. The Tech package adds an 8-inch centre screen with voice activated navigation, a power tailgate, duel climate control and an upgraded stereo system, for just $3000 more. Try and find these features in one of the competitive German of Japanese vehicles for just over $44,000. It doesn’t exist. Acura and Honda are moving towards a two-screen centre console, the RDX is still sold with a single screen and this makes the operation much simpler. The new systems are eye catching but simplicity over flash has a place.

Drive

With manufacturers racing to include smaller turbocharged engines with eight and nine speed automatics, the RDX is still sold with a trusty 3.5L V6 and a proven 6-speed automatic. Take notice, this might not be the case with the next model so buying this simpler RDX might be a good buy. The 273hp engine is very quick off the line; it cruises with ease and passes without hesitation. In real world highway and city driving the RDX returned 13L/100km just slightly worse than the 12L used in the CR-V. All wheel drive (AWD) comes standard on all models but it is a simpler system than the previous model. The suspension is less aggressive than the past model too. This has all been done to produce a ride that will appeal to a wide range of buyers. In everyday driving, the laid-back approach is welcome but the powerful engine always makes the commute fun.

Verdict

Some good news, the rumour mill is grinding out potential new updates for the 2016 model year including a refreshed front end and interior tweaks. Stay tuned. As it stands, the RDX is a bargain in the small luxury SUV space but this Acura model almost needs an edge because the brand doesn’t have the same badge-appeal as the German makers and even Lexus. This RDX competes in the luxury space but many potential buyers don’t perceive Acura to be true luxury, more premium than luxury. This is the same battle Lincoln is facing. If you are in the market for a fantastic, very well equipped small SUV with plenty of luxury touches then the RDX should be on your list. Get past the badge-appeal and find out for yourself what this vehicle has to offer.

Contact: zack [dot] spencer [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca

**********

The Lowdown

Power: 3.5L V6 with 273hp

Fill-up: 12.1L/8.7L/100km (city/highway)

Sticker price: $$41,390-$44,390

“In recent years, compact cars have heavily featured but there was none of significance launched here…”
(more…)

“Heck, even funnyman Jerry Seinfeld couldn’t miss the Acura NSX reveal as he sat in the front row awaiting its presence…”

**********

Detroit, Michigan.

Within moments of pulling out of a parking lot in the 2015 Cadillac CTS 3.6L AWD, its pristine crimson coat was soiled by the elements. And of course, salt, dirt, grime and all that isn’t amazing about winter in Toronto.

Nevertheless, its smooth and comfortable ride didn’t disappoint along the arduous and incredibly four-plus-hour drive to Detroit, Michigan for the 2015 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS.)

I would soon trade in the coziness of heated leather seats – and steering wheel – for a pair of not-so-cozy leather shoes and roam the showfloor to check out what’s hot, cool and what sparkles amidst the industry’s top cars. It would only make sense to start with Cadillac’s latest offering when it comes to their “V” series cars.

At the Los Angeles Auto Show in late 2014, we met the ATS-V – the smaller brother of the mid-sized four-door I drove to Motown. Now, get ready for a performance sedan that will knock your socks off.

Cadillac CTS-V

Arriving late in the summer of 2015, the 2016 Cadillac CTS-V is ready to take on its German competitors (like the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG) with a whopping 640 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque.

The all-new third generation sedan is the most power-endowed product the brand has ever created.

But aside from power, you’ll have the luxury of the third generation Magnetic Ride Control to not only blast you through the corners with grace and poise, but with the comfort of being able to drive it around town, or between cities/countries without sacrificing an enjoyable ride. Road or track, I’ll take this one for a spin any day.

Acura NSX

Perhaps one of the most anticipated reveals of the last few years from the Japanese automaker, Acura, comes in the form of the NSX. The acronym, which stands for New Sports eXperience, rolled out onto the stage to a frenzy of flashes from the crowd. Heck, even funnyman, Jerry Seinfeld, couldn’t miss the reveal as he sat in the front row awaiting its presence.

While pricing hasn’t been released yet, it’ll likely be north of $150K.

But, for that price, you get a vehicle that not only delivers gargantuan power, but one that is hybridized thanks to an all-new power unit. That unit is a twin-turbocharged, 75-degree DOHC V6 engine with a 9-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and three-electric motor Sport Hybrid system. Not to mention Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), so it’s a perfect supercar for all seasons.

Chevrolet Volt

Speaking of electric motors, Chevrolet gave us a preview of the 2016 Volt. With a longer EV range and a lighter body, not to mention a new design, this plug-in hybrid is sure to win even more hearts over. Highlights include an EV range of up to 80 km, a new two-motor drive unit, which is now up to 12 percent more efficient and 45 kg (100 lb) lighter than the first-generation drive unit, and a new 1.5L range extender, designed to use regular unleaded fuel, offering a GM-estimated combined fuel consumption rating of 5.7L/100km.

AS Lexus NXB Concept Bike

Lexus NXB Concept Bike

Completely changing gears, atop one of Lexus’ sparking vehicle at their stand was a concept bike that caught my eye. Not only because it was totally out of place at an auto show, but also because it looks so cool. NXB stands for Neo Xtreme Bike and comes with a Lexus original carbon frame, carbon wheels and a KYB inverted suspension up front. Even if it never is ridden, I still like the idea of a zero-emissions commute on something as interesting as this concept.

Chevrolet Bolt EV Concept

For a zero emissions commute that doesn’t require muscles but rather a motor, the Chevrolet Bolt EV Concept is another step in the brand’s commitment to the electrification of automobiles.

It’s still a concept, but it embodies the philosophy of giving drivers over 300 kilometres of range out of one charge, without charging a premium for it.

The concept’s technological prowess can be linked with an App in which you can control various vehicular functions like starting the car from your smartphone. Additionally, it even incorporates the concept of automatic park-and-retrieval technology, which enables the driver to exit the vehicle and tell the Bolt EV concept to park itself – and when errands are completed, the Bolt EV concept can be summoned to return to the owner’s location. Sounds ideal to me!

Contact: alexandra [dot] straub [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca

“If you are in the market for a fantastic, very well equipped small SUV with plenty of luxury touches then the RDX should be on your list…”

When one manufacturer comes out with a vehicle, you can be sure that the other manufacturers will match the equipment and price, almost to the dollar with their own products.

There are exceptions to every rule and the Acura RDX is one of those exceptions. The value that this entry-level premium SUV offer is so good, it is hard to find a vehicle that can compete on price, features and overall ease of use. Based on the hot-selling Honda CR-V, Acura takes what is good about that vehicle and transforms it into an Acura, full of luxury touches, more power and refinement that makes it the best value in the hyper competitive compact luxury SUV space.

Looks 

With every great deal there is usually one area that lets down the overall package and in the case of the RDX it is exterior styling. The Acura grille is less intrusive than the previous model but it might be rather bland. Wheel sizes are kept to 18-inches, even the optional sport wheels are only 18-inches. The rest of the RDX is inoffensive but not striking either. The size and shape is perfect for most buyers looking for a compact SUV, with large easy to use doors. The RDX is sold in only two trim levels; the base is $41,390, almost dollar-for-dollar the same starting price as all other small luxury SUVs. It is the optional Tech package that makes this a steal. Fully loaded, the RDX Tech is just $3,000 more at $44,390.

Inside

Acura takes the CR-V’s selling points like a roomy cabin, flat rear floor, automatic folding rear seats and pumps up the features. The dash is nicely arranged with much higher trim and finish on the dash, doors and armrests. Standard features include heated leather seats, power moon roof, push button start and a multi angle rearview camera. The Tech package adds an 8-inch centre screen with voice activated navigation, a power tailgate, duel climate control and an upgraded stereo system, for just $3,000 more. Try and find these features in one of the competitive German of Japanese vehicles for just over $44,000. It doesn’t exist. Acura and Honda are moving towards a two-screen centre console, the RDX is still sold with a single screen and this makes the operation much simpler. The new systems are eye catching but simplicity over flash has a place.

Drive

With manufacturers racing to include smaller turbocharged engines with eight and nine speed automatics, the RDX is still sold with a trusty 3.5L V6 and a proven 6-speed automatic. Take notice, this might not be the case with the next model so buying this simpler RDX might be a good buy. The 273hp engine is very quick off the line; it cruises with ease and passes without hesitation. In real world highway and city driving the RDX returned 13L/100km just slightly worse than the 12L used in the CR-V. All wheel drive (AWD) comes standard on all models but it is a simpler system than the previous model. The suspension is less aggressive than the past model too. This has all been done to produce a ride that will appeal to a wide range of buyers. In everyday driving, the laid-back approach is welcome but the powerful engine always makes the commute fun.

Verdict

Some good news, the rumour mill is grinding out potential new updates for the 2016 model year including a refreshed front end and interior tweaks. Stay tuned. As it stands, the RDX is a bargain in the small luxury SUV space but this Acura model almost needs an edge because the brand doesn’t have the same badge-appeal as the German makers and even Lexus. This RDX competes in the luxury space but many potential buyers don’t perceive Acura to be true luxury, more premium than luxury. This is the same battle Lincoln is facing. If you are in the market for a fantastic, very well equipped small SUV with plenty of luxury touches then the RDX should be on your list. Get past the badge-appeal and find out for yourself what this vehicle has to offer.

Contact: zack [dot] spencer [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca


 

The Lowdown

Power: 3.5L V6 with 273hp

Fill-up: 12.1L/8.7L/100km (city/highway)

Sticker price: $$41,390-$44,390

“Customers may not have asked for an aluminum body, instead of steel, but there’s solid reasoning behind this change…”

BM - Carbon Fibre BMW i3

Steel is out and aluminum is the new lightweight “in” material for auto body panels.

Hang on a minute, maybe it’s Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Plastic? These two materials, plus a very different type of hybrid, are entries for the 2015 AJAC Best New Innovative Auto Technology Award.


Ford – F150 Aluminum Body

“If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses,” is a quote attributed to Henry Ford, founder of the Ford Motor Company.

The Ford F150 has been the best-selling in truck sold in Canada for the last four years. Customers may not have asked for an aluminum body, instead of steel, but there’s solid reasoning behind this change.

Aluminum reduces body weight by 40-to-50 per cent. It’s more resistant to corrosion issues and it’s 100 per cent recyclable. In addition to fuel efficiency benefits, a lighter vehicle also has positive influences on braking, handling, ride and acceleration.

A special heat treatment, developed by Ford, nearly doubles (compared to steel) the strength of the military grade aluminum (magnesium) alloy body panels used in the new F150, making them more resistant to dents. Much of the raw aluminum also comes from Canada, as does a good portion of the secondary processing.

Ford’s experience with aluminum body parts actually goes all the way back to the 1915 Model T. In 2009 it secretly built an aluminum body F150, for test purposes, and Ford engineers have also been able to draw from experience in developing current production vehicles such as the all-aluminum body Jaguar XJ.


BMW Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Plastic

The BMW i3 and i8 are two new all-electric vehicles with ultra-light-weight bodies made from Carbon Fibre-Reinforced Plastic (CFRP). It’s a man-made material that’s extremely strong and it’s about 30 per cent lighter than aluminum. This is the first time that the entire body of a production car has been made with a carbon fiber compound.

CFRP is a composite material consisting of carbon fiber surrounded by a plastic matrix (resin). It’s completely resistant to corrosion and is expected to have a substantially longer useful life than metal. It also remains stable under all climatic conditions, according to BMW, even when it’s exposed to large temperature fluctuations.
Carbon Fiber is not a new material to auto racing enthusiasts, where its exceptional strength and light weight make if an ideal body material. CFRP has also been used to make trunk lids, roofs and even drive-shafts in the sporty M Series models by BMW. The main drawback to using carbon fiber in mainstream production vehicles, however, has been its cost, which brings up a Pacific Northwest connection,

All of the carbon fiber use in i3 and i8 comes from a new production plant in Moses Lake, Washington State. In fact, BMW has plans to triple capacity in Moses Lake and make it the world’s largest carbon fiber production plant. More and more BMW models are expected to include components made with CFRP and large-scale production is expected to reduce unit costs.


Honda/Acura – Sport Hybrid SH-AWD

The hybrid edition of the new Acura RLX includes the first-ever electronic (torque vectoring) Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system used in a production hybrid vehicle. This RLX is also the most powerful Acura production model ever built. Combined peak output is 377 horsepower and peak torque to the front wheels is 273 lb-ft at 4,700 rpm. Yet, its fuel consumption is incredibly low, at just 8.0/ 7.5/ 7.7 L/100km (city/highway/combined).

The hybrid powertrain includes three electric motors, one up front and two in the rear, and they all provide both power assist and regenerative charge to a battery pack. The gas engine is a 3.5-litre, 310-horsepower V6 with Variable Cylinder Management that’s linked with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Acura’s super-handling all-wheel-drive uses “torque vectoring” to create a yaw moment that helps the RLX turn effortlessly. It functions like an enhanced differential that sends more power to the outside rear wheel during cornering. And, like magic, you’re a much better and smoother driver. The RLX’s sophisticated hybrid system can also allows it run strictly on battery power with the rear motors driving the vehicle.
The 2015 AJAC Best New Auto Safety Technology Award will be announced at the Montreal Auto Show on January 15, 2015.

Contact: bob [dot] mchugh [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca

“It’s a sportier and more luxurious Honda Civic as it shares most major parts, other than engines…”

The Acura CSX was made in Canada and only sold in Canada. Essentially it’s a sportier and more luxurious Honda Civic as it shares most major parts, other than engines. So, an owner not only gets the renowned reliability, fuel efficiency and functionality of a Civic, but also a higher level of performance and luxury… very nice! (more…)

COMMENTS
POPULAR
TAGS
  • Recent Comments

    • Andrew Ross { Enjoyed your Forest of Bowland in the BMW X5M, particularly the photo of the BMW in front of the main part of Stonyhurst College where... }
    • Davd Randall { Bantam designed the Jeep, not Willy's or Ford. The American military gave the original Bantam prototype to Willys and Ford to copy. There is plenty... }
    • Elliott Parodi { All Escalades come with a 6.2-lilter V8 engine that produces 420 horsepower. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission offered and drives the rear wheels.... }
    • Ev { Alexandra is an excellent journalist. }