Fall 2005 - OpenRoad Driver

In this issue11 1622 26 Features11 Auto Show ReviewDetroit to Frankfurt16 Where the Road Takes YouThe Road Less Travelled Profiles22 Lexus IS26 Toyota Avalon, Toyota Yaris29 Honda Civic31 Hyundai Sonata32 Lexus RX 400h33 Acura CSX........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Regulars2 Publisher’s Note3 The Customers Always Write5 Concepts & Coming SoonToyota FJ Cruiser, Lexus LF-X,Acura RD-X30 The OpenRoad ExperienceNews from our dealerships34 Pre Owned at OpenRoad35 In the Community36 Customer ProfileMeet master sushi chefHidekazu Tojo38 Life on Four Wheels40 Ask the ExpertsService & Technical tips43 RacingYour ticket to the track44 Parting ShotOpenRoad driver |

Share your thoughts...TheCustomersAlwaysWrite Letter of the monthBuilding loyalty onecustomer at a time...I would like to take this opportunityto express my deepest appreciationfor Assistant Service ManagerCameron Ma. He’s gone above andbeyond the regular call of duty withregards to the way he has treated meas a customer with my IS300. I’mso pleased with his service, he’s the#1 reason that I’m dealing with PortMoody Lexus, and will continue todo so in the future.James M.OpenRoad Lexus CustomerThe first, but not thelast ToyotaService before and after the sale formy Prius has been top notch. Myfamily has been a Chrysler family forthe past 25 years, and this is the firstToyota any of us have purchased. Imust say that I am impressed withthe level of customer service yourparts and service department offersalong with the amenities for thewaiting area. When the next familymember is ready to purchase a car,you can be sure that it’ll most likelybe a Toyota from your Port Moodylocation, and we’ll be looking forKenneth Lee as he was the one whogreatly helped me out with the Prius!Daniel L.OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody CustomerGreat service androom to bootI would like to thank Ken Dyckfor his approach to sales. He wasfriendly, informative, and stuck tothe facts. We leased a Corolla andit is wonderful. My wife and I areboth six feet tall and there is plentyof room. The trunk is huge for thatsize of car, which we need becausewe travel to many, many Irish dancecompetitions and shows. Ourthirteen year old daughter loves ittoo. Thank you very much for a greatdealership, selling a great product.Victor S.OpenRoad Toyota Richmond CustomerOpinions from thedriver’s seat… and theback seatI have a Lexus GX 470. It is awonderful and amazing SUV. I lovedriving it even though I drive it allthe time I don’t get bored by it. It isan excellent SUV and thank you forletting me have the chance to have itin my life.Navresh T.Richmond Lexus CustomerUnbeknownst to this customer hisdaughter also sent her thoughts:I love our new Lexus. It’s a verycomfortable SUV to sit in. I lovethe DVD player that’s in it and I likethe navigation screen. The DVDplayer is great when you’re goingsomewhere far.KudosThe service is always great!!!David C.OpenRoad Toyota Richmond CustomerThe service at OpenRoad is excellent.Keep it up.Joseph B.OpenRoad Toyota Richmond CustomerA warm welcome...Your Sales Staff &Service Personnelare a pleasure to deal with. TodayI brought my car in for service andfound your people most congenial.You are most fortunate to havepeople of this caliber on your staff.Thank you again for the attentionand good service.Cecil D.Richmond Lexus CustomerYour Service guysare the best...especially Anke Minty. She is thereason why I come to RichmondLexus.Dr. P.Richmond Lexus CustomerFirst new carJim & I would like to thank you andyour friendly and expert team atOpenRoad for all the help in gettingme on the road in my first new carever! What a feeling – I am veryhappy with the car and have beendriving it all over the place in thelast 2 days. Sean, your friendly andprofessional manner served to calmsome unsteady nerves. I wish you allthe best in the years ahead.Teresa S.OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody CustomerComing throughI wanted to thank Hector from thePart Department for helping mewhen I needed it most. I purchasedmy two cars from Middlegate Hondaseveral years ago but I lost my keysand needed help. He promptly andswiftly helped my after asking thenecessary questions. Thank youHector for the Legendary Service!Peter T.Middlegate Honda CustomerWe like mail...Send feedback on OpenRoad Driver or anyOpenRoad Auto Group related topic to:info@openroadcanada.comPlease include “Driver” in the subject lineOpenRoad driver |

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Concepts & Coming SoonToyota FJ CruiserInspired by the past...with a twistWay back in the early 1960s before anyone had coinedthe term “SUV,” the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 wasmaking a name for itself anywhere the going gotreally tough, way off the beaten path.That model was sold for a quarter century until 1983, and20 years later, when Toyota showed a concept for a new shortwheelbaseLand Cruiser at the Auto Show in Detroit, mostpeople figured it was only a matter of time before it reachedproduction.Last spring, Toyota confirmed that the FJ Cruiser would belaunched in early 2006, and fans of small, tough trucks are goingto love it. The FJ Cruiser was developed as a basic, capable andaffordable off-roader aimed specifically at young buyers withactive outdoor lifestyles.The new FJ will pay homage to the old model with numerousretro touches. The wide grille with the Toyota badging is themost obvious, joined by the upright windshield, white roof andwrap-around rear quarter windows.The tough and straightforward theme of the FJ Cruiser isextended to the interior with a cabin designed specifically forbasic functionality and flexible utility. The instrument panelfeatures an exterior colour trim, and the faceplate with roundinset instrumentation communicates a mechanical appearance.The five-passenger FJ Cruiser rides on a modified 4Runnerplatform and features 17-inch steel wheels and four-wheel discbrakes. Power comes from a 4.0-litre V6 engine, generating 245horsepower and 282 lb-ft. of torque. It is paired with a five-speedautomatic transmission on both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations andan available six-speed manual on 4x4 models. Gerry FrechetteOpenRoad driver |

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Concepts & Coming SoonAcura RD-XTake performance and handling,add functionality and stirThe unveiling of the Acura RD-XConcept at the North AmericanInternational Auto Show in Detroitearly this year marked the advent of thefirst small crossover-SUV for Acura, and ithas since been announced that it will goon sale in 2006.The RD-X has a combination ofattributes that is much in demand thesedays – the performance of a sports sedanwith the all-wheel drive capability andfunctional utility of an SUV.The primary means by which theseseemingly contradictory goals are metby the RD-X is via the Super HandlingAll-Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) systemcurrently found only in the RL luxurysedan. For those who might not befamiliar with it, SH-AWD distributestorque not only between the front andrear wheels, but also between the left andright rear wheels. The result is superiortraction on all surfaces and in all weatherconditions, as well as increased corneringprecision.Beyond this, we know little of themechanical specification of the RD-X,although one can confidently expect it tobe equipped with one of Acura’s smoothand potent V6 engines.The RD-X Concept did, however,showcase all manner of interior features,and most of them are likely to make itinto production. Shift indicators showinga “+” and “-” are linked to the steeringwheel-mounted paddle shifters, allowingthe driver to track shifts, up and down. Aneight-inch colour LCD screen dominatesthe centre of the instrument panel anddisplays information on the NavigationSystem. Navigation, audio, dual climatecontrol and other features are controlledusing the Interface Dial mounted in thecentre of the instrument panel below thedisplay. Gerry FrechetteOpenRoad driver |

OpenRoad driver |

Concepts & Coming SoonLexus LF-XSetting the pace for the futureof Lexus designThe new Lexus design language,seen already on the new GS andIS models, is called L-Finesse,and it includes innovation, confidence,dynamic posture, intriguing eleganceand the infusion of technology as its coreparameters.One of the next Lexus vehicles to speakthis language will be one that representsa segment – the large, luxury crossoverSUV – that has not yet been seen inLexus showrooms. The concept versionof the LF-X was first shown at the TokyoMotor Show in 2003, and Canadianshad a chance to see it at the Toronto andVancouver shows early this year.Modern technology will allow theproduction version of LF-X, whichwill likely have a different name, to bealmost all things to all people. Lexus’objective was to look beyond the currentSUV formulas and build a vehicle thatexpresses strong emotional stylingwith high levels of performance, utility,comfort and luxury.Powering the LF-X is the silky-smoothV8 from the GS430 sport sedan. The 300horsepower outputted by the 4.3-litreengine will be put to the ground through afive-speed automatic and all-wheel drive.Intended to evoke the sophistication,functionality and luxurious comfort ofan executive jet, the LF-X’s interior isremarkably clean and uncluttered with adriver-oriented feel. The instrument paneluses advanced technology to allow driversto customize displays and information totheir needs. Keeping with current trends,the LF-X has three rows of seating andDVD entertainment system.The production version of LF-X isexpected to reach OpenRoad Lexusshowrooms in 2006. Gerry FrechetteOpenRoad driver |

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Feature2005Auto Shows in Review Detroit to Frankfurtby Trevor HofmannThe auto industry is becoming more competitive with eachpassing month, let alone every year. Nowhere is this moreevident than at the auto shows that dot the globe.OpenRoad driver |11

Feature2005 Auto Shows in ReviewIT’S AN EXTREMELY FULL CALENDAR.Whether you are talking about the January shows in L.A. andDetroit, February in Chicago and Toronto, March in Geneva andNew York, April in Vancouver, May in Seoul, June in London or,most recently, Frankfurt.Detroit, home of the North American International AutoShow, is one of the world’s most significant shows, and easilythe most important to Canadians. Why? Pretty well everyCanadian model is first shown in Detroit, unless, like theprevious Echo Hatchback and Acura EL, the model is notavailable in the U.S. The same scenario plays out for the new2006 Yaris just introduced in Frankfurt (see page 26). Thethree- and four-door versions now replace both the hatch andfour-door Echo, although this time around a three-door versionwill be available stateside in model year 2007. The upcoming“Detroit is easily the most important show to Canadians.”OpenRoad driver |12

Feature2005 Auto Shows in ReviewLexus divisionknocked everyone off their feetwith its gorgeous LF-A sport coupe.Acura EL replacement, dubbed CSX (seepage 33), will continue to be a Canadianexclusive.Detroit introduced a bevy of newmodels, as well as a wide assortment ofinteresting concept cars. Of the latter,Acura showed the efficiently packagedRS-X compact sport utility, a subtlydisguised version of a future modelexpected next year. Toyota impressed theautomotive press with its FT-SX Conceptcrossover, a stylish example of where thispopular new vehicle niche may go, but itsLexus division knocked everyone off theirfeet with its gorgeous LF-A sport coupe,the most daring example of the brand’sedgy L-Finesse design language to date.Honda waited until February’sChicago show to unveil its sporty SiConcept, what we now know as the allnewCivic Si coupe. Hyundai chose thesame event launch its elegantly stylishPortico concept, which introducessome design elements expected in anupcoming midsize crossover model.Probably more important to mostCanadian consumers, Detroit alsowitnessed the all-new Hyundai Sonatamid-size sedan (see page 31), ToyotaAvalon (see page 26) full-size sedan,Lexus GS luxury sedan, and HondaRidgeline mid-size pickup unveilings,all now available and among the mostcompetitive models in their respectivemarket segments. OpenRoad driver |13

Feature2005 Auto Shows in Review1/3 AdGeneva introduced the gorgeousnew Lexus IS (see page 22), currentlyin launch stage and already developingan enthusiast following. The handsomeHyundai Grandeur, a model that wasshown as the Azera to North Americanconsumers in New York, was on thesame stage as the new Accent sedan.This sporty little model will, like itsToyota Yaris rival, change perceptionsabout the subcompact class when itsoon becomes available.While most people who live outsideof the world’s largest cities may neverhave enjoyed the excitement and fanfarethat surround a major automotive show,Vancouver’s International Auto Showcontinues to offer a surprising numberof new model introductions as well asa full assortment of concept cars ondisplay. Make sure to get out and enjoyit when all the automakers once againconverge on BC Place stadium nextApril.OpenRoad driver |14

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FeatureWhere the Road Takes YoutheRoadby John Leeless travelledB.C. is crowded with busy tourist-trail attractionsthat many locals have visited several times over.While familiarity can certainly breed contemptwhen it comes to planning a day out – exceptfor those of us happy to line up at the CapilanoSuspension Bridge and pretend it’s our firsttime – there’s a clutch of rewarding, lesser-knownarea destinations just waiting to be discovered.These drive-worthy, off-the-beaten-path gemspromise some unexpectedly engaging excursionsfor those who think they’ve seen all there is tosee in their own backyard.OpenRoad driver |16

FeatureWhere the Road Takes YouAvisit to what may be the region’s best-keptmuseum secret is highly recommended forlocal adventurers. Langley Airport is the unlikelyhome of the Canadian Museum of Flight,a meticulously well-preserved celebration ofaviation history that expertly caters to bothplane-spotting geeks and those with a less insular interest inflying. Turn left at the hulking silver Dakota airplane out frontand you’re met by a forest of colourful historic planes. Theseinclude vintage jets like the fang-toothed DH 100 Vampire andseveral camouflage-patterned warplanes. The most celebrated ofthese is a rare 1940s Canadian-made Handley-Page Hampdenbomber, complete with several cramped gun positions that runalong its body like transparent blisters.A nearby hangar – an important shelter spot on rainy days –is bursting at the seams with display cases, information panelsand a wild and wacky assortment of aircraft: you’ll have to makeseveral circuits of this open-plan room to make sure you catchexhibits like the ultralight helicopter that’s little more than aflying armchair and a lacquered wooden glider that resemblesan airborne chocolate egg. Among the more serious exhibits aredisplays recounting Canada’s wartime aviation contribution andthe sad history of the AVRO Arrow jet fighter program.Airplanes are a vital cross-Canada transportation modetoday but their pre-eminent role was once taken by the railroad.The pioneering Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) created agoldmine of development wherever it built its stations, forgingtowns from forested landscapes that had existed untouchedsince creation. When Port Moody was named the CPR’s westernterminus in 1879, it grew rapidly into the city that existstoday. The story of the area’s rail-fuelled social and economicdevelopment is colourfully recalled at the charming Port MoodyStation Museum.This pretty 1905 red-painted station building housesinformative displays on the region’s original Coast Salishinhabitants, as well as a recreated 19th-century kitchen andparlour complex and a fascinating photo collection uncoveringPort Moody’s frontier days. Nostalgic visitors will also enjoydisplays of familiar Tetley Tea, Mackintosh Toffee and RowntreeCocoa packages as well as generation-defining toys like die-castfire trucks and a “Shaky Scotty” mechanical dog.Along with several interactive displays for kids, there’s plentyto please the train buffs, including a model of the first CPR trainto arrive here in 1886 – it was one minute late following its 137-hour trip from Montreal. The original, high-ceilinged stationwaiting room has also been preserved and is lined with heritagerailway posters. Visitors can even clamber aboard a 1920s traincarriage parked outside, complete with a cosy wood-lined sleepercabin and a surprisingly capacious ladies powder room.While trains illustrate coal’s dominance as the leading powersource of their era, hydro electricity was also developing as an OpenRoad driver |17

FeatureWhere the Road Takes YouWhere to find themalternative energy source at the time – asa trip to the fascinating Power Houseat Stave Falls, Mission indicates. Ratherthan being a stuffy mothballed industrialsite, this clever interpretativecentre in a former 1912 BCHydro power plant mixeshistory, science and dozens ofkid-friendly interactive games.A vivid movie presentationexplains what it was like tolive and work here in the early20th-century before sparkingvisitors’ imaginations witha kaleidoscope of hands-onexperiments. A quiz gameillustrates how little mostof us know about the generation ofelectricity and a button-laden alternativeenergy section displays the nuts andbolts of wind power, fuel cells and solarenergy. It’s the old Generator Hall thatimpresses most, though, with its giantCloverdaleis also agood spot tobrowse forcollectibleslike tradingcards, comicbooks andunusualantiques...turbine and generator units cleaned andready for action.Action of a different kind is thekeyword over in Cloverdale, wherea decades-old Sundayshopping tradition stilldraws thousands of keeneyed,bargain-huntingBC residents. CloverdaleFlea Market has gained ajustifiable reputation as thebest bazaar in the West dueto its winning combinationof professional and amateurtraders working hundredsof stalls.While it’s still agreat place to pick-up cheap consumernecessities like batteries and brandedrazor blades, Cloverdale is also a goodspot to browse for collectibles liketrading cards, comic books and unusualantiques – I spotted a collection of• Canadian Museum of FlightHangar 3, 5333 216th Street, Langley.Open daily. Admission is adults $5,seniors and students $4 and under-6s free. For info, call 604-532-0035 orvisit www.canadianflight.org• Port Moody Station Museum2734 Murray Street, Port Moody. Opendaily. Admission is free (donationswelcome). For info, call 604-939-1648or visit www.vcn.bc.ca/pmmuseum• Power House at Stave Falls31338 Dewdney Trunk Road, Mission.Open daily (by appointment onlyfrom mid-October to mid-May).Admission is adults $5, seniorsand students $4 and under-5s free.For info, call 604-462-222 or visitwww.bchydro.com/recreation/mainland/mainland5361.html• Cloverdale Flea MarketCloverdale Fairgrounds.Open every Sunday. For info,call 604-856-1100• Kuan Yin Temple9160 Steveston Highway, Richmond.Open daily. Admission is free.For info, call 604-274-2822 or visitwww.buddhisttemple.ca• Maplewood Farm405 Seymour River Place, NorthVancouver. Open daily, exceptMondays off-season. Admission isadults $3.50, under-16s and seniors $2and under-18-months free.For info, call 604-929-5610 or visitwww.maplewoodfarm.bc.caYour businessis personalAs a business owner, your day doesn’t end when you leave theoffice. Your personal and business matters are connected. That’s whywe have a dedicated group who can assist you with your strategy,tax and succession planning and other matters relating to your familyand business. No matter the size of your company, our team ofadvisors can help you overcome obstacles, achieve your goals androll out your plan for the future. At PwC over 60% of our clients areprivate companies, like yours.Contact our Private Company Services Practice:Eric Andreweric.s.andrew@ca.pwc.com604 806 7500Visit our Web site at www.pwc.com/caOpenRoad driver |18© 2005 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Canada. “PricewaterhouseCoopers” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Canada, an Ontario limited liability partnership, or, as the context requires,the network of member firms of PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited, each of which is a separate and independent legal entity.

FeatureWhere the Road Takes Youvintage Art Deco teapots on my visit. Crafts are also onprominent display throughout the year and you’ll be luckyif you can walk away without buying seasonal specialslike decorated Halloween corn cobs and locally-producedChristmas wreaths.Although much of the trading activity takes placeoutside, there are also several cavernous indoor halls forthose frequent drizzly “Wet Coast” days. Some of thesecovered stalls specialize in souvenirs, and savvy touristshave been known to leave with armfuls of maple leafT-shirts for families and friends back home.While Cloverdale’s bustling temple of capitalism isa firm favourite, there are other temples in the LowerMainland that are a little more tranquil. Richmond’s KuanYin Temple is one of Canada’s finest traditional-styleChinese buildings and it opens its doors to thousands ofBuddhist and non-Buddhist visitors every year. Modelled onthe architecture of Beijing’s Forbidden City, the complex’smain structure is its sumptuous Gracious Hall. Decoratedwith deep red and gold exterior walls and topped with a OpenRoad driver |19

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FeatureWhere the Road Takes Yougently-flaring roof of orange porcelaintiles, the interior is illuminated by colourfulsculptures, breathtaking murals and severalintricate embroidered wall hangings.Don’t miss the collection of exquisiteChinese paintings and antiquities ondisplay here and be sure to drop by thecalm-inducing classical garden, completeIt’s also worthsaving room fora lip-smackingvegetarian lunchwith an impressive array of elderly bonsaitrees. Outside the garden, the groundssurrounding the temple house dozensof carefully-pruned trees and intricatesculptures. It’s also worth saving roomfor a lip-smacking vegetarian lunch atthe complex’s dedicated cafeteria.While good vegetarian food cantemporarily sway the minds of themost dedicated carnivores, a visit toNorth Vancouver’s Maplewood Farmmight make the transition permanent.Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year,this five-acre community favourite hasintroduced generations of city-slickingvisitors to the cuddly side of pastoral lifewith its 200 highly-approachable birdsand domestic animals.There’s nothing high-tech aboutthis attraction and that’s its charm.Kids can ride ponies and get up-closeand-personalwith cows, fluffy chicksand African pygmy goats – includinga cute new buck and doe pair born inMarch. The rabbits – many housed in adedicated “Rabitat” area -- are availablefor petting to wide-eyed visitors who canalso check-in with the “Goat Hill Gang,”a gaggle of curious but friendly animalswho like to interact.Staffed by volunteers, the farm isalways a hive of activity so there’s plentyto see. Rainy days are also part of theplanning at Maplewood and indoorrespites can be found throughout thefacility – the tropical greenhouse isparticularly recommended on cold dayssince it also provides a deep infusion ofwarmth for chilled visitors.OpenRoad driver |21

New CarPROFILE2006 LexusIS 250/350ShakingUp theStatusQuoThe excitementsurrounding Lexus’ new compact ISsport/luxury sedan is unlike anythingthe brand has ever experienced to date.Internet message boards are filled withenthusiastic prospective owners claimingto have cancelled orders of competitiveGerman rivals after viewing photos ofthe new Lexus. With many of those samebuyers thrilled with their decision to swapallegiances now that news of the model’sstellar performance is surfacing.It should come as no surprise thatattractive styling sells cars. Where theoutgoing IS, which debuted four yearsago, became popular among enthusiastsdue to its entertaining driving dynamicsand full assortment of features, thebends, folds and creases that madeup its body panels didn’t combine intoanything quite as alluring as those of the2006 version.Under the new model’s sculpted hoodis a choice of two engines, the base IS250 getting an all-new 2.5-litre, 24-valveDOHC V6 with an impressive 204-horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, routedto the rear wheels via a six-speed manualtransmission or 6-speed automatic. Thismodel is available with all-wheel drivetoo, opening up Lexus to an entirely newgroup of entry-luxury buyers. The top-lineOpenRoad driver |22

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New CarPROFILE2006 LexusIS 250/350IS 350 comes with asophisticated306-horsepower3.5-litre V6,featuring 277 lb-ftof torque.With the highest output in its class,the much more expensive Audi S,BMW M, Cadillac V and Mercedes-Benz AMG variants aside, the new IS350 should ensure loyal IS fans look nofurther when trading up to a new car.Any premium compact buyer will thinktwice before paying more for a lessreliable European model.The IS 350 comes standard with adriver adaptable six-speed automaticthat, when in “Power” mode has beendesigned to hold gears longer and spinto redline when enthusiastic driving isdetected. Also appealing to sport-orienteddrivers are paddle-shifters ideally placedbehind the ergonomically designedsteering wheel, which should help itsowner achieve an estimated sprint fromzero to 100 km/h in only 5.5 seconds.Incidentally, the IS 250 completes the taskin a competitive 8.5 seconds.Its double wishbone front suspensionand multi-link rear suspension setupOpenRoad driver |24

Any premium compact buyer willthink twice before paying more fora less reliable European model...The Specs IS 250/350• Price Range:IS 250 RWD from $36,300IS 250 AWD from $41,900IS 350 RWD from $48,900• Body Type: 4-door sedan• Layout: front engine, RWD(optional AWD)• Engine: 204-hp, 185 lb-ft of torque,2.5L, 24-valve, DOHC V6• Engine: 306-hp, 277 lb-ft of torque,3.5L, 24-valve, DOHC V6• Transmission: 6-spd manual(optional 6-spd automatic with manualmode)• Performance: 0 - 100 km/hIS250 7.9 sec /IS250AWD 8.2 sec /IS3505.6 sec• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS,EBD, BA• Curb Weight (est. IS 250 RWD):1567 kg (3,455 lbs)• Dimensions (L/W/H/WB):4,575 / 1,800 / 1,425 / 2,730 mm (180.1/ 70.9 / 56.1 / 107.4 in)• Seating Capacity: 5• Cargo Volume: 378 L (13.3 cu ft)Further info: www.lexus.cashould take to the corners well, whileelectronic driver aids, such as electric“drive-by-wire” power steering, VSC stabilitycontrol, and many others, should keep anyoverzealous enthusiasm under control.Of course, four-wheel disc brakes withABS and EBD are standard, as is a fullassortment of safety features, such asdriver and front passenger frontal airbags,side-impact and curtain-type airbags.The tactile quality of its interioris equal to the superbly craftedLexus GS, with high-end matte, softtouchplastics, burnished metals,and glossy woods combining foran extremely upscale environment.Keyless entry with a push-buttonstarter is standard, while a large,touch-screen LCD display acts as themain control interface for climate andaudio functions. The unique, althoughcontroversial chronograph instrumentcluster in the original IS has beenreplaced with a more straightforwardOptitron gauge package, which shouldappeal to more drivers.The doors feel substantial and shutwith vault-like precision, and like thebrand’s larger GS and LS sedans, silenceexterior noise to the point that onlypurposely audible mechanical melodiesseep through the firewall.Inside, the new IS is larger than theold one, especially noticeable to rearseat passengers. It’s an impressivestep forward in a category longdominated by European brands, andone that should see Lexus’ overallfortunes rise. Trevor HofmanNOpenRoad driver |25

New CarPROFILE2006 ToyotaAvalonAn Entirely NewApproach to Full-Size LuxuryToyota’s all-new Avalon, which cameto market earlier this year as a late2005 model, gives all competitors athorough lesson on how to build an entrylevelbrand luxury car. It’s large, which isimportant in this class, stylish in an elegantlyconservative fashion, and featuresLexus-like interior and exterior build-quality.The seats are large and well padded,although they still manage to supportsmaller occupants even during aggressivemaneuvers. Its fully-automated climatecontrol system is easy to use, and 12-speaker, rear subwoofer-equipped JBLaudio system featuring a six-disc dashmountedCD changer, cassette and AM/FM radio, sounds sensational. A DVD-based navigation system is also available,and works wonders.Under the hood is a new 280-horsepower, 24-valve DOHC 3.5-litreV6 with 260 lb-ft of torque connectingthrough to the front wheels via a fivespeedautomatic transmission withmanual-mode actuation. Refined yes,but it’s also plenty fast, with virtuallyno torque-steer even at full throttle.It continues such performance sedancharacteristics with impressive handling,wonderful stability during high-speedtouring and short, controlled braking.In the end, despite its availableperformance and accommodating size,the slippery Avalon, featuring a dragcoefficient of only 0.29, manages a thrifty11.0 L/100 km in the city and 7.3 on thehighway. And that’s real-world luxurytoday’s consumer can afford to enjoy.Trevor HofmanNNew CarPROFILE2006 ToyotaYarisChanging Perceptionsabout theSubcompact ClassYaris? What’s that? You might aswell get familiar with the namenow, as you’re going to hear a lot moreabout it for a very long time. While otherautomakers designate their cars withnames of mammals, places and whathave-youin order to conjure up a positiveassociative image, Toyota often createsall-new names that mean nothing at first,such as Tercel, Corolla, or Camry, butsoon become synonymous with qualityand reliability.The name Yaris has long beenassociated with such attributes inEurope, where it has represented thesubcompact model known here as theEcho Hatchback, and now that ToyotaCanada is adopting a new global strategyfor small cars the Yaris is here. Andwith the name comes a car that willcertainly change perceptions aboutthe entire subcompact category. It’sbuilt using Toyota’s large car methods,resulting in a solid little package thatdelivers a surprisingly comfortable ride,terrific handling, sporty acceleration andcommendable high-speed stability.Its monoform European styling isexpressive while its interior layout isefficient, high in quality, comfortable,and larger inside than it appears fromthe outside. Power comes from a 106-horsepower 1.5-litre four-cylinder routedto the front wheels through a five-speedmanual or four-speed automatic, whileABS brakes are optional.Trevor HofmanNOpenRoad driver |26

The Specs AVALON• Price Range (MSRP):$39,00 - $46,825• Body Type: 4-door sedan• Layout: front engine, FWD• Engine: 268 hp, 248 lb-ft torque,24-valve, DOHC, 3.5L V6• Transmission: 5-spd auto withmanual mode• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABSwith EBD (optional Brake Assist)• Curb Weight: (min - max): 1,583 -1,615 kg (3,490 - 3,560 lbs)• Fuel Economy: (city/hwy): 10.8 /7.2 L/100 km• Cargo Volume (trunk): 408 L(14.4 cu ft)• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000comprehensive - 60/100,000powertrainThe Specs Yaris• Model Range:3-dr CE/RS, 5-dr LE/RS• Price Range (base – 3-dr to 5 dr RSMSRP): $13,580 - $19,815• Body Type: 3-door, 5-door• Layout: FWD• Engine: 106-hp, 1.5L, 16-valve,DOHC I-4• Transmission: 5-spd manual(opt. 4-spd auto)• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum(opt. ABS)• Safety: front airbags• warrAnty (mo/km): 36/60,000km comprehensive; 60/100,000 kmpowertrainOpenRoad driver |27

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New CarPROFILE2006 HondaCivicBetter in Every WayCanada’s best selling car is better inevery way for 2006. It looks fabulous,combines satisfying performance withhigh levels of refinement, and achievessuperb fuel economy.Once again a sedan and coupe model isavailable for 2006, the former featuring theoption of a hybrid drivetrain and the latterable to be optioned out in sporty Si trim.Like the Si, base Civics get a larger,improved engine, now making 140-hp.That means the new car’s accelerationis brisker, but not at the expense of fueleconomy. Its estimated city/highwayrating is 7.8 / 5.7 L/100 km!The ride, while smoother over unevenpavement, is sportier than the outgoingCivic, managing corners with less body leanand braking in a more controlled manner.During the Civic’s full-line introductionin Chicago, Honda rented out a privateracetrack that proved to be an idealtesting facility for the new Si. Of course,the boost from its 197-hp 16-valve, DOHCfour-cylinder and six-speed manualgearbox is intoxicating, but that drivetrainis also backed up by a car that handlestight corners at high-speed with stunningcompetence. Its stability at even higherspeeds is also impressive, while wind androad noise is low for this class.This is not only true for the Si, but alsofor the other models in the Civic lineup.While all trim levels offer a larger, morecomfortable interior, I was especiallyimpressed with the updated Civic Hybrid,which is smooth, quiet and overall adream on the open highway, acceleratingquickly via its efficient continuouslyvariable transmission.Its interior is a futuristic display ofcomplex surfaces, not unlike the regularCivic in layout but featuring more metallikesurfaces combined with the alreadyhigher-than-average quality plasticsfound in every Civic, giving the Hybrid atechnically advanced interior to match itssophisticated drivetrain.Every Civic gets the unique dualbinnacle instrument cluster, whichincludes one in the traditional locationbehind the steering wheel and the otheratop the dash directly below the driver’sline of sight when looking at the roadahead. This allows for quick referencingof primary controls without compromisingsafety.All switchgear is also extremelyhigh-grade for the compact segment,especially the buttons, dials and knobsthat make up the integrated audio andHVAC interfaces within the centre stack.The new Civic, in its many variations,continues a long tradition of besting itscompetitors in the compact class.Trevor HofmanNThe Specs CIVIC• Model Range:DX, DX-G, LX, EX, Hybrid• Price Range (base – Hybrid MSRP):$16,800 - $25,800• Body Type: 4-door, 5-pass; 2-door,5-pass• Layout: FWD• Engine: 140-hp, 1.8L, 16-valve,SOHC I-4 (opt. 85-hp, 1.4L, SOHCI-4 gasoline-electric hybrid; opt. 197-hp,1.8L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4)• Transmission: 5-spd manual(opt. 5-spd auto, CVT)• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum, ABS(opt. disc/disc, ABS)• Safety: front and side curtain airbags• warrAnty(mo/km): 60/100,000 kmcomprehensiveOpenRoad driver |29

News from ourDealerships...OpenRoadExperience RL serviceexcellence awardRichmond Lexus has received theprestigious Award of Excellencebestowed by Lexus Canada. Theaward recognizes the entire teamat Richmond Lexus for theircombined efforts to achieve highservice standards.Record settingPort Moody celebrates 25 years and arecord year. Not to be outdone by itssister store in Richmond, OpenRoadToyota Port Moody is on pace for arecord year in 2005.Summer heatcontinues...August was hot at OpenRoad ToyotaRichmond. With the help of ourvalued customers, we delivered apace-setting 332 cars, to make thedealership number one in Canada.Our customers enthusiasm hasn’tstopped, at the end of September andOctober our Richmond store continuedto enjoy top spot in the nation.Change ofAddress...OpenRoad Hyundai is lookingforward to moving into their newhome in the Richmond Auto Mall.Early in 2006 OpenRoad Hyundaiwill make the move in next doorto Richmond Lexus. The team atHyundai look forward to servingcustomers at their new location.Congratulationsto North Shore AcuraThe Service Department won the2004 Acura Service Guild Award forLifetime Owner Loyalty. Accordingto Mark Chambers, Service Manager,“We are also tracking to also repeat thisaccomplishment for the year 2005.”Hat trick forOpenRoadOpenRoad Service Advisors provedtheir knowledge at the ToyotaNational Skills Challenge. DeanMacLean and Say Phin Lim ofOpenRoad Toyota won gold andsilver respectively while BrianVoth won bronze. Congratulationsto all three, their knowledge andexperience enables them to provide abetter experience for our customers.Finding culture ina car dealership?OpenRoad Lexus was pleasedto sponsor two events in thecommunity. Chocolate, Port andMore was held October 15 as partof the annual Tri-Cities ChocolateFestival. OpenRoad Lexus welcomedthe Port Moody Arts Council andtheir supporters for their annualfundraiser on November 18 foran evening of music, food andcelebration. ConsumersChoice...OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody isproud to receive the ConsumersChoice Award for 2004/2005 in theautomotive sector.Instant OnlineService Informationfor Toyota OwnersFrom a personal, password-protectedhomepage on the www.toyota.cawebsite, Toyota owners can nowsee information on their vehicleincluding Extended Care Policycoverage, service history andrecommended maintenance. Ownersare also given the ability to respondelectronically to surveys, requestservice appointments and updatetheir contact information online.Current owners can register on theToyota website by clicking on theClub Toyota link, if their vehicle isfrom the 1996 model year or later.OpenRoad driver |30

New CarPROFILE2006 HyundaiSonataValue WithoutCompromiseHyundai has improved the 2006Sonata so thoroughly that only thename remains the same. The midsizemodel is all about refinement, with asuperb ride, impressive handling, extremelysmooth 4- and 6-cylinder engines, superb fitand finish inside and out, plus high qualitymaterials in the spacious cabin.It looks good too. Less formal than theoutgoing model, the new Sonata boaststhe stance of a premium sport sedan yetstill manages to portray elegance fromevery angle.The front wheels do the pulling via a 162-hp 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine in base trimand 235-hp 3.3-litre V6 in upper trim levels,while a five-speed manual or optional fourspeedautomatic shifts the entry engine,and a velvety-smooth five-speed unit withmanual mode connects to the V6.A full assortment of luxury,convenience and safety features, startingat an unbelievably low $21,900, topsout with power actuated leather seats,automatic climate control, poweradjustable foot pedals, an auto dimmingrearview mirror, a traction and stabilitycontrol system, premium audio, andmore for only $28,000.Its expected top-tier reliability– Consumer Reports magazine ratedlast year’s Sonata the most reliable caravailable in North America – makes thenew model a midsize value leader.Trevor HofmanNThe Specs SONATA• Model Range:GL, GL V6, GLS V6• Price Range (base – GLS V6 MSRP):$21,900 - $26,600• Body Type: 4-door, 5-pass• Layout: FWD• Engine: 162-hp, 2.4L, 16-valve,DOHC I-4 (opt. 235-hp, 3.3L, DOHC V6)• Transmission: 5-spd manual(opt. 4-spd auto, 5-spd auto)• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc(opt. ABS)• Mileage (estimated city/hwy):9.6 / 6.3 L/100 km• Safety: front and side curtain airbags• warrenty(mo/km): 60/100,000 kmcomprehensiveOpenRoad driver |31

New CarPROFILE2006 LexusRX 400hElectrifyingPerformanceLexus’ parent company Toyotaplans to power twenty-five percentof its two-nameplate Canadian lineupwith its industry-leading hybrid-electricdrivetrains by 2010, and eventuallyoffer Hybrid Synergy Drive as optionalequipment on all of its cars, vans, trucksand crossovers. If the new RX 400h is anexample of what’s in store, saying no tospending a little more on the innovativefuel saving technology will becomeextremely difficult.The 400h’s 3.3-litre V6, combinedwith twin electric motors, deliversV8 power to match zero to 100 km/hsprints with BMW’s X5 4.4i, for lessmoney than most premium automakerscharge to move from a V6 up to a V8.What’s more, it gets the added benefitof compact car fuel economy and thepeace of mind that comes from knowingthe car you’re driving doesn’t spewout anywhere near as many harmfulemissions as other SUVs.Added to the hybrid package isevery luxury feature available on theconventional RX 330 and then some.It’s an enjoyable vehicle to drive, withsurprising acceleration, especiallyduring highway passing maneuvers,tremendous agility in the corners, and alevel of refinement synonymous with theLexus name. Trevor HofmanNOpenRoad driver |32

The Specs RX 400h• Price Range (base MSRP):$62,200 – $69,700• Body Type: 5-door, 5-pass• Layout: Front gas engine plus front& rear electric motors/AWD• Engine: 268-hp, 3.3L, 24-valve,DOHC V6 with two hybrid electricmotors• Transmission: Electronicallycontrolled Continuously VariableTransmission (ECVT)• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS• Mileage (estimated city/hwy): 7.5/8.1 L/100 kms• Safety: front and side curtain airbags• warrAnty(mo/km): 48/80,000comprehensive; 60/110,000 powertrainNew CarPROFILE2006 AcuraCSXFuel EfficientLuxury is Rightfor the TimesThe CSX will replace the popular ELnameplate in Acura’s 2006 lineup,and by doing so, becomes Canada’s leastexpensive entry-level premium model.“Acura’s new CSX sedan is designedas a gateway product to Acura’s family ofsix luxury vehicles, from the RSX sportscoupe to the RL luxury-performancesedan,” commented Jim Miller, executivevice president, Honda Canada.While no photos are yet available,Acura has released a few details thatshould be of interest.Under the hood is a 155-horsepower2.0-litre four-cylinder featuring i-VTEC“intelligent” valve-control, whichcombines VTEC (Variable Valve Timingand Lift Electronic Control) with VTC(Variable Timing Control). The i-VTECsystem improves performance across abroader powerband while reducing fuelconsumption and lowering emissions.Acura states that the new CSX’ssuspension has been “tuned for aperformance-oriented feel”, so expectnimble handling. The CSX will alsofeature drive-by-wire throttle control,four-wheel disc brakes and a lightweightspeed-sensitive electric power steering(EPD) system for what Acura assures willbe “sporty driving performance”.Acura also promises its CSX willfeature a “wide range of distinctive luxuryand convenience features”, plus a “fullcompliment of standard safety features”,which are to include Honda’s newAdvanced Compatibility Engineered (ACE)body structure for improving frontalcollision safety with vehicles of “differingsize”.Expect it to arrive in showrooms laterthis fall. Trevor HofmanNThe Specs CSX• Price Range (MSRP):$25,400 - $31,900• Body Type: 4-door, 5-pass• Layout: FWD• Engine: 155-hp, 2.0L, 16-valve,SOHC I-4• Transmission: 5-spd manual(opt. 5-spd auto)• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS• Mileage (estimated city/hwy):7.8 / 5.7 L/100 km• Safety: front and side curtain airbags• warrAnty(mo/km): 60/100,000 kmcomprehensiveOpenRoad driver |33

Pre Owned at OpenRoad Auto GroupMemories begin,and new ones aremade, wheneverowning and drivingan automobile.When you buy a preowned vehicle fromOpenRoad Auto Group we back it withour Used Car Buyer Protection Plan.OpenRoad Used Car Buyer ProtectionPlan includes:• 3 day/300 KM Money Back Guarantee– you can return for any reason within theperiod and you’ll get a full refund – noquestions asked!• 153 point safety and mechanicalinspection by a factory trained technician• 90 day/5000 KM Powertrain Warranty(or balance of factory warranty) – we willreplace any of the parts within the periodin the event of breakdown• 30 Day/2000 KM Exchange Guarantee:bring the vehicle back in the samecondition in which it was purchased, andit can be applied towards the purchase ofany other used vehicle on our lot.• Clean Title Guarantee: we guaranteethat every used OpenRoad vehicle we sellis free of all liens and encumbrances.• Current Air Care inspection: weguarantee that all cars purchased at anyOpenRoad dealership have been Air Carecertified.• ICBC Collision Damage Check: AllOpenRoad used vehicles undergo anICBC check which details prior damagesin excess of $2000, helping you make abetter purchase decision.Other services offered:• Helpful Business Office personnel forall your financing needs• Trade Ins Welcome• Professional appraisers on staff forvehicle evaluations• ICBC insurance services available on siteA unique vehicle in ourPreowned Department:Here is a unique opportunity to check outOpenRoad Toyota-Richmond newest acquisition- the 1990 Toyota Sera, which was originally soldin Japan and the U.K. as a concept (only 16,000Sera’s were produced between March, 1990 andDecember, 1995). Indeed, an upcoming desiredcollectible worldwide!Photography: Dean SandersonOpenRoad driver |34

OpenRoadin the Community OpenRoad Supportsthe Eagle Ridge HospitalFoundationOpenRoad Toyota Port Moody heldtheir second annual Community Dayon September 17 in support of theEagle Ridge Hospital Foundation. Theweather co-operated and many peoplecame to enjoy the festivities. Activitiesincluded face painting, balloonanimals, stunt bike shows by TrialsinBike Store. Other sponsors thatgenerously donated time and suppliesfor the event were M&M Meat Shopin Maple Ridge, Starbucks, DairyQueen and the Port Moody RotaryChapter. The raffle of a one year leaseof a Toyota Corolla was awarded toAl Olson of Coquitlam and the eventraised $1500 for the Foundation.Richmond FlatlandsRace sponsored byOpenRoad ToyotaRichmondOnce again OpenRoad ToyotaRichmond sponsored the RichmondFlatlands race in 2005. Despite thetorrential rains, 400 runners came outfor their ‘best time of the year’.Congratulations...to the Flatlands Race Coordinator(and OpenRoad Toyota Associate)Chris Dalhuisen for his nomination forthe Community Spirit Award to honourvolunteers in the City of Richmond.Chris has tirelessly volunteered withthe Flatlands race along with KajaksTrack and Field Club.EvergreenFoundationsupport by ToyotaToyota continues to supportthe Evergreen Foundation’sefforts to create greenspace in the community.Most recently J. N. BurnettSecondary School was arecipient of a grant.OpenRoad driver |35

CustomerProfileOpenRoad driver |36By Kimi Nomura & Ben Hudson Photography: Dean SandersonTojoStyle!Hidekazu Tojo is the ownerand head chef of the worldfamous Tojo’s restaurant– certainly one of the bestJapanese restaurants inVancouver – possibly one ofthe best in the world. He’salso the owner of a new2006 Toyota HighlanderHybrid.What sets Tojo’s fare apart from thecompetition is his vast knowledge ofJapanese cuisine, an uncanny ability tosource the freshest cuts of meat and seafood,and a life long devotion to culinary creativity.During his rigorous apprenticeshipin Japan, Tojo learned a healthy respectfor hard-work, precision, quality, andcustomer service. As a stunningly successfulrestaurateur he’s learned that fantasticproducts and happy, healthy customers arecritical to sustainable success.Environmental sustainability is alsoimportant to Tojo. He strongly believes inthe value of sourcing local products andhe complies with the Canadian fishingrestrictions. He follows the guidelines of theFarmed and Dangerous Campaign outlinedby the Coastal Alliance for AquacultureReform which asks restaurant owners andchefs not to serve farmed, over-fished orendangered species of fish.In light of Tojo’s dedication to qualityproducts, outstanding customer service, andenvironmental sustainability, choosing anew 2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid fromOpenRoad Toyota seemed to be a perfectlynatural selection. A truly environmentallyfriendly mid-size SUV that’s a far cry Tojo’sfirst vehicle, a 1972 Datsun 510.We caught up with Tojo a few weeks afterpurchasing his new vehicle from OpenRoadToyota. We asked him a few questions abouthis life, his restaurant, and he shared an ideawith us about a parallel parking feature wehad never considered.

So, have you had a chance to take yournew Highlander Hybird on any road trips?Only a few short trips here and there. Acouple of weeks ago I took it out on thehighway to see my friend’s property inAbbotsford. I was impressed by performanceon the highway – very quiet andsmooth.What do you like most about yourHighlander Hybrid?It looks good, and it’s very comfortable todrive. It’s fuel efficient, quiet, and well tobe honest, I like everything.What type of music do you listen to whenyou’re driving?I like classic, soft music.Your restaurant is reputed to serve someof the best Japanese food in Vancouver,some say Canada, some even say theworld. With such a great reputation youmust get some pretty famous customers.Who was your most memorable celebrityto visit your restaurant? Or favourite?There are lots. Mel Gibson, HarrisonFord, Matt Damon, many famous peopleWhen you first came to Vancouver, wereyou worried that Japanese food might notcatch on?No, I’m always a positive thinker.I read on your website that you had a longand very intense apprenticeship at a veryfine restaurant in Osaka. You must havelearned a lot.Yes, I worked at a very traditional, highendrestaurant for many years. It taughtme a tremendous amount. I would work16 hour days. Our shopping started atfour or five in the morning. I trained veryhard earning a low wage and workinglong hours. It was hard work but it hasproven to be very good for me, I learnedso much, not only about fish, but withmeat, everything – how to cook, how totalk to customers, and patience too.If somebody has never experienced Tojo’s,how would you describe your restaurantand its cuisine?Japanese food has a lot of variety. It’s notonly raw fish. I would start them off easy.Our cuisine is made with mostly localown creations. Many people say, ‘Oh youhave a very traditional way.’ Yes, I usetraditional techniques but in my own way.It’s Tojo’s style – delicious and healthy.It’s easy to make food that tastes good, buthealthy too, not so easy. If you use garlic,butter, and cream it tastes good. But it’snot healthy.I think most people would agree thatsushi is pretty healthy. What is a commonmisconception about sushi, or a littleknown fact about sushi?Most people, especially those from NorthAmerica, think sushi is just raw fish. It isnot. Some fish we cannot eat raw, we mustcook…Like fugu the poisonous blowfish?Yes.Do you ever serve fugu here?In 1971, we had a lot of Japanese businesspeople here. And fugu is most popular inthe Osaka area. They would always ask me toserve fugu. I have a fugu license so in 1972to 1974, we served fugu. The most poisonousparts are the brain, blood, and liver.‘It was hard work but it has proven to be very good for me.’have enjoyed my restaurant. RobinWilliams, Morgan Freeman, KevinBacon and many powerful politiciansand business people too. But I appreciateevery one of my customers and each istreated with utmost respect.I understand that when you first cameto Vancouver not many people had everexperienced authentic Japanese foodbefore, let alone sushi.I came to Vancouver in 1971 and atthat time, Japanese food was not verypopular. Some people had tried tempuraor sukiyaki – lots of popular dishes butnot sushi. Only a handful of CaucasiansI knew of in Vancouver ate sushi andusually only tuna sashimi. Most of myfirst customers were more traditionalJapanese people, so I began to experimentwith new creations – the inside outCalifornia roll and my original, B.C. roll.Wow, you invented the California Roll ?Yes that is true. Tojo-maki became knownas the California Rollingredients and produce. Then we createit to my own style.Yes, your personal style is really what setsyour restaurant apart. I’ve heard you knowover 2000 recipes. Do you write themdown or keep them all in your head?Good food is just like music. Thisinstrument here, this instrument there,then you put it all together. Seasonality isalso very important. In the summertimewe serve summer products, and in thewinter when it’s cold people like hotdishes. But most of all, people are alwayslooking for something new. I love tocreate new dishes.With your tremendous success,what do you consider your greatestaccomplishment?I think it’s my original dishes. I lovecreating dishes that nobody else hasthought of. When I first started over 25years ago my friends told me that it wouldbe impossible to have my own dishes.Now, most of the food I serve are myDid anybody ever die?No!That’s a relief. Dead customers areprobably pretty bad for business and therestaurant business is pretty competitivein Vancouver isn’t it?I love competition and we work veryhard to be competitive and exciting toour customers. Vancouver has manyexceptional places to dine so I mustcompare myself to those too. Not only atJapanese restaurants.So, I know you just bought a newHighlander Hybrid, but what would yourdream car be?An H2 fuel cell car. But my real dreamis to find a car that I can parallel parkwithout having to back in. Just gosideways right into the space. My dreamcar will park sideways automatically.Perhaps we should tell engineers anddesigners at Toyota about your idea?Yes, then we could all park Tojo style!OpenRoad driver |37

Life on4 WheelsBrian Voth remembers hisold faithful family car...“Good riddance”I thought aloud.The time had finallycome to partwith my little red1989 Honda.I had owned her since new, and sheserved me well throughout the last16 years, but time had taken its toll.The cherry red paint leeched away, theblack bumpers now a milky grey. Coldmornings were especially difficult now,where I would say a little prayer beforeturning the key, hoping for a favorableresponse. I knew the time had come tomove on to something new.I decided to give her one final washbefore placing my ad in the local paper.As I stood in the driveway, wash bucketin hand, I started to realize how muchthis car has meant to me. I rememberedthe many summer camping trips it tookus on, and the endless work commutes;driving with the windows down, ona hot July day, singing along with myfavorite song on the radio; the dent onthe bumper from when my young sonwas making his first failed attempt atriding his bike. I remember wiping histears away, and then watching him rideback down the driveway, laughing thenext instant. I bought it during my firstyear of college, with money saved fromnumerous odd jobs. As the years passedby, it became the vehicle that took mychildren to school, soccergames and the like. Lookinside and you can stillspot the indentationsthe booster seats hadleft behind. I realizedthat over time, mycar had become morethan metal and fourtires. It became a part ofthe family that I relied onday in and day out.Soon after I placed the carfor sale, a young man came to look atit. The young man explained he was amechanic and wanted to buy a “fixerupper” and this was just what he waslooking for. He gave me the eighthundreddollars asking price, so I toldhim I would let him keep the bungeechords that held up the front bumper.... my sixteenyear old sonasks me if he can“take it for a burn”.We compromise andgo together for a driveto get a burger at thedrive through.We shook hands and he drove awayhappy with his purchase. I smiled as Iwatched the one working taillight fade inthe distance.A week later, I am the proud ownerof a brand new minivan. The silver paintsparkles in the sun, not a single dent orrust spot to fret about. It seems like anew friend I don’t know a lotabout yet, but look forwardto creating many newmemories with. Thisnext chapter begins asmy sixteen year old sonasks me if he can “takeit for a burn”.We compromise andgo together for a drive toget a burger at the drivethrough. “Cool Ride Dad,but I would have preferred asports car” my son joked. Sure enougha new chapter had begun. And strangelyenough, I somehow look forward to thenext dent in that bumper.Brian VothBrian Voth is the Assistant ServiceManager at OpenRoad Toyota RichmondOpenRoad driver |38© The New Yorker Collection 2004 Sam Gross from cartoonbank.com. All Rights Reserved.

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Ask the ExpertsOur Panel of Service AdvisorsAnswers Your Questions.The Panel: Garry Basran, Jonathan Jaehrlich, Ed Prasad, Robert Fry - Middlegate Honda,Dean MacLean - OpenRoad Toyota Port Moody, Brian Voth - OpenRoad Toyota RichmondQ I recently got a small rock chip on mywindshield while driving on the highway. It ispretty small so I was thinking about just leavingit. Any opinions?A Yes. Get it fixed as soon as possible! There is a good chancethat small chip can expand to a large crack if left unattended.A chip can be repaired inexpensively, but a crack would requirethe entire windshield be replaced.Q At my last oil change, I was told my air filterwas dirty and needed replacement. Can I waituntil my next service?A I would not advise waiting until the next service. Thefunction of your air filter is to stop airborne contaminantsfrom getting into your engine. A clogged air filter will notallow enough air into the combustion chambers resulting ina “rich condition” (i.e. not enough air and too much gas). Thefinal result will be lack of power, rough running, and excessivefuel consumption.Q I haven’t washed my car for a couple ofmonths and now I notice paint damage wheresome bird droppings were. Can this be easilyfixed?A Unfortunately not. Bird droppings are acidic, and actuallyeat through the protective coating and the paint itself. Thelonger it sits, the more damage is done. You likely will requirethose areas to be repainted. It is advised to clean thesedroppings off as soon as you see them to avoid costly damage.Do not use a dry cloth or napkin as you can scratch the paintwhile cleaning.Q I hit a curb on a slippery corner while drivingand now my car seems to pull to the right, andmy steering wheel isn’t centred. Should I have itchecked out?A Definitely. What has happened is your vehicle is now outof alignment. Depending on the severity of the impact, youmay also have sidewall tire damage, a bent rim and worse case,possible bent suspension components. Hopefully, if you didn’thit too hard, a simple alignment should fix your problem. (seeAlignment box, facing page)QUIZ OUR PANEL...direct your questions to info@openroadcanda.cominclude “Ask the Experts” in the subject lineOpenRoad driver |40

Ask the ExpertsQ Do I need to install 4 snowtires or is 2 ok?A The short answer is yes.A front wheel drive car with winter tireson the front wheels only would havedecent straight line traction howeverbraking and turning is going to be ahandful. If you don’t have good tractionon the rear of the vehicle you are aptto have pre-mature lock-up of the rearwheels and a tendency to skid whenbraking or turning.Q Why do I get a mustysmell when I turn on my airconditioning or blower fan?A When the air conditioner is used,either during cooling or to defog thewindows, a small amount of water vaporwill condense on the cooling fins of theevaporator under the dash. These waterdroplets, along with small particles of dirtin the air, will cause a build up of mold ormildew on the evaporator, which will giveyou the musty odor. A variety of effectivedisinfectant sprays can be applied via theexterior air inlet vent to alleviate the odor.Q Why is it necessary tochange the brake fluid?A Brake fluid will slowly absorb watermoisture, which can cause corrosion tothe insides of the brake components,leading to costly repairs.Q Why do I have a brakevibration or pulsation whenbraking at highway speeds?A If the problem is with the brakesystem, the vibration is most likely aresult of thickness variation in the rotor.As pads squeeze a rotor that is not ofuniform thickness, their effectivenessfluctuates — grabbing the thick spots andslipping over the thin. This in turn is feltas a pulsation in the pedal.Wheel Alignmentor Wheel balancing?Awheel alignment is often confusedwith wheel balancing.The two really have nothing to dowith each other except that theyboth affect vehicle handling and ridequality. If a wheel is out of balanceit will cause a vibration that is feltin the steering and/or through theseat. If the alignment is out it canresult in excessive tire wear andsteering problems. Driving over apothole or a hard bump into a curbcan put the wheels out of alignment.On newer vehicles with a moreadvanced suspension a 4-wheelalignment is performed and threebasic angles are checked at each ofthe 4 wheels, the camber, caster andtoe. The camber is the angle of thewheel when viewed from the frontof the vehicle (i.e. the top of wheelleaning toward or away from thecar). The caster is the forward orbackward tilt of the steering pivotswhen viewed from the side of thevehicle. Both the camber and thecaster are not adjustable on manyfront wheel drive cars and if foundto be out may indicate worn ordamaged component(s). The toeis the difference in the distancebetween the front of the tires and theback of the tires and is an adjustableparameter on most vehicles.Incorrectly inflated tires, brakeor steering problems and even rutsor the normal crown in the road canalso cause similar symptoms to thoseassociated with a miss-aligned vehicle.A properly aligned vehicle willreduce tire wear and help maintainstability while driving, cornering andbraking, especially in unpredictableroad conditions. A good courseof maintenance is to have thealignment checked once a year andanytime new tires are installed.OpenRoad driver |41

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The Racing PageYOUR TICKET TO THETrackSo you want to go racing, do you?You figure you are a very gooddriver, and you have the needfor speed but are smart enough not toindulge it on the street. You know you’llnever be a pro driver, but you just havethat competitive urge that you want todeal with from time-to-time.Well, you are in luck, because there isa good race driver training program righthere in the Lower Mainland of B.C.The Sports Car Club of B.C. (SCCBC)runs the road racing program at MissionRaceway Park east of Vancouver, andevery season, they hold two DriverTraining programs, from which manyof the drivers racing at the track havegraduated. You can be one of them.SCCBC’s Ray Stec filled us in onthe program. “It starts with a five-hourclassroom session on the basic theory ofracing. The next weekend is the on-trackportion, with two full days of instructionstarting with basic exercises, culminatingin high-speed lapping sessions.”You don’t need to already own a racecar to take the course. “Your car shouldbe a good, road-worthy street car,” Steccontinues. “It will be put through itspaces, so you might go through a set ofbrake pads, and you’ll put some wear onyour tires as well.”The next SCCBC Driver Trainingcourse will be in March, check theclub’s website [www.sccbc.net] for allthe details.By the way, if you end up not goingracing after taking the course, you willhave at least improved your regular streetdriving. And there is nothing wrong withthat. Gerry Frechette© The New Yorker Collection 2002 Michael Maslinfrom cartoonbank.com. All Rights Reserved.OpenRoad driver |43

ThePartingShotChristian Chia preparesto take on the field at theAsian Formula Renault.OpenRoad driver |44

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