New year promises to be one of innovation and improvements

The new year is a great time to make resolutions and a few improvements in your life, such as hitting the gym more often, eating better, taking a course or learning a new skill.

Many businesses also take advantage of the new year to launch new and improved products and services.

In the auto industry, the new year starts early. Many 2015 cars and trucks have been for sale for weeks now at dealerships across the province, giving buyers the opportunity to purchase the latest makes and models.

This year is shaping up to be another great year for drivers looking for a new vehicle.

“If you like cars and trucks, you’re going to love 2015,” declared Edmunds.com in a recent column outlining its choice for the 17 best new cars of 2015.

It cites examples such as the all-new Jaguar’s XS sedan and improvements to the classic Ford F150, which includes new engine options and an aluminum body.

Subaru is also coming out with some updated models, including the WRX, which Edmumds.com describes as “stiffer, lower, longer (in wheelbase) and more powerful” than previous models.

Tesla Motors’ highly anticipated crossover SUV Model X is expected to be available later this year.

“After our experience with the Model S, we expect the Model X to be more of the same: groundbreaking, innovative, fraught with technology and remarkably refined,” says Edmunds.com.

“Others (like just about everything from GM on this list) deserve acknowledgment for either risk-taking or simple segment leadership,” Edmunds. com says.

According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), 2015 is a big year for new truck launches and sedans. It also cites the new Ford F-150 as well as GM’s launch of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, which are said to be geared to a younger demographic.

“The most significant 4-door launches of 2015 come from Chrysler with its new 200 line of mid-size sedans, while Hyundai remakes its Genesis rear-drive model and offers allwheel drive for the first time in a car,” says KBB on its website.

In-car features are also seeing major improvements each year, including new technology to help make driving safer and more convenient.

While consumers are enjoying what’s new for 2015, manufacturers are already working on new makes and models for 2016.

That includes the latest developments in smart and connected technology in the automotive sector. Auto enthusiasts can learn more at the upcoming Vehicle Intelligence Marketplace, launched by the Consumer Electronics Association, taking place in Las Vegas Jan. 6-9.

It’s the first of a number of exciting auto industry events taking place in the coming weeks, including the North American International Auto Show in Detroit later this month and of course the Vancouver International Auto Show March 24-29.

This year’s Vancouver show is expected to be one of the biggest yet. You don’t want to miss it! For more details and ticket information visit: http:// vancouverinternationalautoshow.com