Our top 5 from TestFest 2021

Christmas came early again this year for auto journalists at the annual TestFest organized by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). After an obligatory year off in 2020, the 2021 event was a test-driving marathon with 49 new models at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (Mosport for short), located just northeast of Toronto. Our automotive expert Jesse Caron put 19 vehicles through their paces in the span of 2 days. Here are 5 that made a big impression.

Acura TLX Type S

The first Acura Type S since 2008 fully lives up to its sporty pedigree. The fun starts under the hood with a new 355 horsepower turbo V6 that feels even more powerful behind the wheel. The power and sonics of this engine are a real treat for old-school car buffs at a time when whisper-quiet EVs are taking the industry by storm. The vehicle’s impeccable performance on the Mosport driver development track confirms that the double wishbone front suspension, torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system, and low-ratio steering are a match made in heaven. The 20-inch wheels make for a slightly less comfortable ride compared to the standard TLX, but not enough to compromise the fun. In terms of drawbacks, the TLX Type S does lack some of the prestige of its German competitors and features one of the industry’s most baffling infotainment systems. But at $60,000 it seems like a steal for drivers who want performance and luxury in a potentially reliable sedan.

Ford Bronco

At last: the real “big Bronco.” Designed to compete with the iconic Jeep Wrangler, the Bronco got off to a rocky start with production delays and hardtop quality issues. The Badlands model we tested had no obvious assembly or construction flaws. The finish was actually a bit better than in our previous ride, the Wrangler Rubicon 392. The Bronco also seemed more spacious, especially in the trunk. Plus it offered a more ergonomic driving position, a more comfortable ride, superior stability, and better soundproofing. But the Wrangler still comes out on top off-road due to its smaller footprint and the simplicity of its 4WD drivetrain.

Genesis GV70

The GV70 is the second crossover from Genesis and it lands squarely in the very competitive compact luxury SUV segment. Its sleek and striking exterior and unique, sophisticated cabin are eye‑catching. Plus, the 3.5T Sport Plus version we drove was on par with its German competitors in terms of power, handling, and refinement. It comes with a generous warranty, 5 years of at-home service, and good predicted reliability. All for $10,000 less than its European rivals.

Jeep Grand Cherokee L

It’s been 10 years since the Grand Cherokee got a makeover. For this new generation, Stellantis (formerly FiatChrysler Automobiles) designed an all-new platform that makes a clean break with the architecture it inherited when Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep merged with Mercedes-Benz. For the first time ever, Jeep is offering the Grand Cherokee with three rows of seats in the L version we test drove. The first thing that struck us was the lavish, welcoming interior. The ride is quiet and smooth, at least with the optional air suspension. The 5.2m chassis provides a reasonable amount of space in the third row, though not quite as much as in a minivan. The handling seemed lighter than the Ford Explorer or even the Chevrolet Traverse, but a full test drive is needed to confirm. The forthcoming 4xe plug-in hybrid won’t be available with the longer wheelbase, but it will make up for the lack of innovation in the engine department (the V6 and V8 engines haven’t seen an update in ages).

Toyota Tundra

Here’s another vehicle that was due for an overhaul. Apart from a few partial redesigns, not much had changed with the Tundra since 2007! But patience has once again been rewarded: the 2022 model introduces the truck version of Toyota’s global architecture and features coil-spring rear suspension, electric power steering, and a 10-speed transmission. That’s right folks, the Tundra has finally been modernized—including under the hood, where a twin-turbo V6 has replaced the previous model’s V8. It’s similar to the approach Ford took 10 years ago with the F-150 and should be an improvement on the V8’s insatiable thirst for gas. And if the 6.5L/100km consumption shown on the trip computer after our 20km test drive is any indication, the hybrid option should deliver even better performance in the mileage department. That figure needs to be verified under our usual test-drive conditions, but it certainly reignites interest in this truck. The interior has also gotten a makeover, although it’s still not quite as luxurious as its high-end American rivals.