Trail Swag Reports: 2013 Canadian International Auto Show
We went to the 2013 Canadian International Auto Show to see which auto manufacturers were embracing the outdoors. The Auto Show runs until February 24th, so if you are in the market for a new vehicle, be sure to head to the show to see all the manufacturers in one location.
While at the show, be sure to follow the sound of the tweeting birds, past the Eco-Drive showcase, to the Ontario Parks Rest Area. While catching your breath at the picnic tables between looking at vehicles, be sure to pick up the brand new 2013 Ontario Parks Guide.
Volkswagen
Volkswagen paired up the 2013 Tiguan with 4MOTION All-wheel drive system and optional sport suspension package with carrier bars ($341) and a bicycle carrier ($155). Be sure to try their interactive website to customize your own Tiguan to see what it would look like with not only your favourite colour, but "toys" such as canoe, kayak, and camping gear.
John White from Volkswagen presented the Cross Coupe which is a Diesel/Electric hybrid which provides power (516 lb-ft of torque) and efficiency (1.8 l/100 km). The Cross Coupe has an Off-Road mode which provides electrical all-wheel drive. The world-wide premiere will be this March at the Geneva International Motor Show.
Suzuki
Suzuki showed off a Cervelo S5 atop their 2013 Grand Vitara JLX-L. The Grand Vitara with 4WD, has a multi roof rack ($210.95) and bicycle rack ($162.95). The roof rails are standard across the JX, JLX and JLX-L models.
The 2013 SX4 Crossover JX CVT iAWD had a multi roof rack ($179.95) and a lockable ski/snowboard module (pair of 6) ($145.95). The roof rails come with the JA iAWD and JX iAWD models.
Honda
Jeep
Chrysler's Reid Bigland unveiled the Jeep 2014 Grand Cherokee which is built in Detroit and has a new 8-speed transmission. For the first time, the Cherokee has a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine which delivers 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. It's Selec-Terrain system gives you an option for five different driving conditions including offering a sport mode. All 2014 Grand Cherokees equipped with Off-road groups are Trail Rated meaning that they are designed to perform in many different outdoor conditions (traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation and water fording).
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi's RVR Crossover was displayed with a mountain bike (upright mount - $218.39. Fork mount - $184.77) and kayak.
Subaru
Subaru's 2013 XV Crosstrek sported both a Gary Fisher and Devinci bicycle. Subaru offers three different bicycle carriers (upright ($190), fork mount ($199.95), and hitch mount ($250)) as well as a ski/snowboard carrier ($195) and a Kayak stacker ($190).
Watch our interview with Subaru's VP of Product Planning, Ted Lalka as we ask him to tell us about Subaru's features for the outdoor enthusiast.
Smart
Smart were offering custom options for their eBike. Choose between the eBike rack bag ($147.50), seat ($28.50) and helmet ($147.50).
Ford
This is the 2013 Ford Escape with it's aerodynamic design and 4WD system. The hands-free liftgate feature gives you easy access to pack the 1920 L of space with your camping gear.
