Judges Stories

Jeff Wilson had this to say about the Subaru Forester on AutoGuide: “Subaru could have dramatically overhauled the Forester with a radical look, taking it in an entirely new direction the way some of the competitors try to reinvent their models with every new generation. Instead, as one of the company’s volume sellers, the new Forester receives measured change to a format that has worked for the brand throughout the previous five generations. The previous model’s bright, spacious interior, useful cargo hold, and engaging performance continue to define the Forester, while also benefitting from improved comfort, driveability, and arguably appearance. …

Jil McIntoshhad this to say about the 2025 Mazda CX-70 GT on driving.ca: “Beyond that, Mazda’s signature is its fun-to-drive handling. It’s obviously a commuter sport-ute and not a sports car, but it’s responsive and it feels solid rather than heavy. On a curve or a rough road, it can apply a smidgen of brake pressure to one wheel, stabilizing the rear suspension so the vehicle retains its composure. The steering is nicely-weighted, the turning circle is very tight, and overall, it’s very good from behind the wheel.” SUV Review: 2025 Mazda CX-70 GT – Reviews | Driving

Jil McIntosh had this to say about the Nissan Kicks on autotrader.ca: “Very little in this entry-level segment of crossovers actually feels like it these days, as automakers adapt to safety and efficiency requirements, and add the technology consumers want. The 2025 Nissan Kicks faces numerous competitors, and they’re all regularly updated to stay relevant. Still, for its features and performance, this new Kicks looks like it should easily hold its own.” 2025 Nissan Kicks First Drive Review | AutoTrader.ca

Graham Heaps had this to say about the Kia EV9 on Traction Life: “The EV9 fills a gap in the market. For now, the VinFast VF9, Rivian R1S, and Volvo EX90 are the only three-row EV alternatives. The Kia is the lowest-priced and most mainstream of the foursome, and many will be drawn to its distinctive, chunky styling.” Here’s How the Kia EV9 AWD Handles Family Road Trips

Jay Kana had this to say about the Fiat 500e on Modern Motoring:

Matthew Guy had this to say about the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N on Driving.ca: “The name Hyundai is said to have its roots in the Korean word ‘hyeondae’, an expression used when one is talking about ‘the present age’. In the automotive world, it doesn’t get any further towards the present age than an electric vehicle — especially one with 641 horsepower and the sort of tactile lariness gearheads like to find in sporty cars.” 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Review Canada – Reviews | Driving

Jeff Wilson had this to say about the Hyundai Santa Fe on autotrader.ca: “While its new macho styling may be polarizing to some, and its new off-road-oriented trim overreaches somewhat, there is no question the bigger and bolder 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe is appreciably better than the model it replaces. The Santa Fe continues to offer a lot of features and value for the dollar, as it has always done, but now it also delivers more space, technology, and style. For adventures that don’t stray too far from the beaten path, the new Hyundai Santa Fe is a fantastic choice.” …

Jay Kana & Stephanie Wallcraft had this to say about the BMW i4 on Modern Motoring:

Dan Heyman had this to say about the Toyota GR Corolla on Auto123.com: “The real question is this: How well does this performance Corolla stack up against the likes of the Honda Civic Type R, or even the Volkswagen Golf R. Having only driven the latter, I can tell you that the Corolla is more on-the-nose, its every response laying claim to being a performance model. It’s more of an assault on the senses, but it’s no smoke and mirrors. This is a proper performance car, and one of the more thrilling compacts we’ve seen in Canada in some time, …