NEW RIDES YOU CAN ACTUALLY AFFORD IN 2019
‘Bread-and-butter’ models are on the way this year
JIL MCINTOSH As much as people love the idea of speed or luxury, it’s the everyday “bread-and-butter” cars that are the most common on our roads. Here are some of the new models, most starting at under $30,000, that we’ll be seeing in 2019.
HONDA INSIGHT
The Insight has a long history as a quirky little hybrid, but comes back for 2019 as a conventionally styled sedan. It’s powered by a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine mated with an electric motor that produces 197 pound-feet of torque. Combined, the engine and motor make 151 horsepower. The battery recharges with regenerative braking and the driver can select the level. The two trim levels are priced at $27,990 and $31,950.
HYUNDAI ELANTRA GT N LINE
Hyundai now uses an N badge for its true performance vehicles, while “sport-enhanced” cars fall under the N Line name. The first to use it is the Elantra GT hatchback, where the N Line replaces the outgoing Sport trim and includes unique exterior and interior design cues, such as a lower front spoiler and sport seats. The 1.6-L turbo engine still makes 201 hp — but compared to the Sport, the N Line has a stiffer chassis and shocks, quicker steering ratio and larger front brakes. Pricing runs from $27,199 to $30,699.
2019 KIA FORTE
This third-generation Forte is larger than its predecessor and has more passenger and cargo space. It uses a 2.0-L engine with 147 hp and has some fuel-saving technology up its sleeve. The six-speed manual can be optioned instead with a new continuously variable transmission (CVT), the first designed and built in house by Kia, and with adaptive logic for better performance on acceleration. Pricing starts at $16,495 and standard features include an eight-inch touch screen, Android Auto and driver-assist features.
2019 MAZDA3
New styling divides the Mazda3’s two models: The sedan matures and smooths out, while the hatchback has a sportier appearance. The big news is that all-wheel drive will be available. The new model features Mazda’s Skyactiv technology, including engine and transmission optimization and lightweight construction for improved fuel efficiency. We won’t get the diesel offered in some markets; instead, it will launch with a 2.5-L gas engine that deactivates two cylinders under light load to save fuel. Later on, we’ll get a new high-tech 2.0-L Skyactiv-X engine, which combines a gas engine’s spark ignition with compression ignition similar to that of a diesel. Mazda said to expect a 20 to 30 per cent improvement in fuel economy.
2019 NISSAN ALTIMA
Nissan points straight at the crossover segment by equipping all versions of the all-new Altima with all-wheel drive. It will come in three trim levels, from $27,998 to $35,998. The new 2.5-L engine makes 182 hp and is mated to a CVT. The AWD primarily powers the front wheels, but can send up to 50 per cent of power to the rear wheels as needed. All but the base trim include ProPilot Assist, which can follow traffic and stay in its own lane. It isn’t a substitute for driving it yourself, but it’s a step toward autonomous cars.
2020 SUBARU CROSSTREK HYBRID
Subaru is putting its first plug-in hybrid system in the Crosstrek crossover. It uses a 2.0-L engine mated to electric motors, along with a CVT and, of course, all-wheel drive. When it’s fully charged, it provides an estimated 27 km of electric-only driving. For some commuters, that may be enough to run on battery only for most driving. Once that stored charge runs out, the Crosstrek reverts to conventional hybrid operation, running on gasoline or electric as needed and recharging its battery through regenerative braking. This new Crosstrek will also feature unique-to-thehybrid styling cues. This one will definitely top $30,000, but we’ll know more when pricing is announced closer to launch.
2020 TOYOTA COROLLA
Toyota’s popular sedan will ride on a new platform with new styling, more fuel efficiency and the model’s first hybrid system for North America. Lower trim grades use the carried-over 1.8-L engine, while the XSE and SE get an all-new 2.0-L direct-injection engine making 169 hp. There are also two new transmissions: a six-speed manual and an automatic CVT. The Corolla Hybrid mates the 1.8 L with two motor generators, producing a combined 121 hp and running on gasoline, electricity or a combination of both, depending on driving conditions. Fuel efficiency is estimated at under 5.0 L/100 km. All Corolla models will include such active safety features as adaptive cruise control. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
2019 TOYOTA RAV4
Toyota’s popular sport ute morphs into its fifth generation, including a hybrid model. A longer wheelbase provides more rear legroom. Pricing starts at $27,990. The new RAV4 uses a 2.5-L engine making 203 hp, mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, resulting in a combined rating of 7.8 L/100 km. Multi-Terrain Select can be used to optimize driving in such conditions as mud or snow.
2019 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
Not a hello, but a goodbye: The Bug leaves us once again, heading out the door with a Wolfsburg Edition in coupe and convertible, starting at $24,475. The editions include unique colours, 17-inch wheels, chrome accents, a sunroof on the coupe and an option package adds such items as bi-xenon headlamps, sport seats and diamond-stitched leather upholstery. If you’ve always wanted a Beetle, consider this your last chance to get one new.