AutoTrader Canada serves as the official digital platform for Canada's foremost marketplace dedicated to the acquisition and divestment of new and pre-owned vehicles. Leveraging a combined quarter-century of automotive journalism experience, expert hosts Jodi and Dan provide accessible, unbiased insights into the automotive landscape. Their content aims to demystify car-related topics for both the average driver and the dedicated enthusiast.
This distributor offers a comprehensive suite of automotive content, including in-depth reviews and test drives spanning a wide spectrum of vehicles from electric cars and trucks to iconic models like the Mustang. Additionally, viewers will find practical advice tailored for car owners, prospective buyers, and sellers, all designed to simplify the complexities of the automotive world for Canadians.
This distributor offers a comprehensive suite of automotive content, including in-depth reviews and test drives spanning a wide spectrum of vehicles from electric cars and trucks to iconic models like the Mustang. Additionally, viewers will find practical advice tailored for car owners, prospective buyers, and sellers, all designed to simplify the complexities of the automotive world for Canadians.
2022 Kia Niro EV Review: Underrated Electric
The 2022 Kia Niro EV is presented as a disarmingly approachable and user-friendly electric vehicle that has unfortunately toiled in obscurity. The reviewer highlights its conventional design, making it feel like a normal car, and praises its abundance of physical controls for HVAC and infotainmen...
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Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 93: Cars to Look Forward to in 2026
In Episode 93 of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi and Sébastien preview a compelling lineup of vehicles slated for 2026. The discu... moression highlights a significant year for automotive innovation, particularly for EVs, with a predicted shift towards more affordable and technologically advanced models. Key vehicles discussed include the next-generation BMW 3 Series, expected to feature a new 'Neue Klasse' platform offering substantial range improvements, and the revived Honda Prelude, which blends hybrid efficiency with Type R performance components, though its practicality as a 2+2 coupe is questioned. The episode also touches on the upcoming Honda Zero series EV, promising affordability, and the new Toyota RAV4, emphasizing its hybrid-only strategy and local Canadian production. Mazda's CX-5 is noted for its improved infotainment and hybrid option, while the Toyota C-HR returns as a full EV with impressive range. The Mitsubishi Outlander is recognized for its underrated PHEV and upcoming EV variant. The Polestar 4 stands out for its innovative design, including the lack of a rear window, and a strong focus on holistic sustainability. The hosts express optimism for 2026, anticipating a year of exciting advancements and increased accessibility in the EV market. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 92: Is This Illegal or Are You a Jerk?
In this episode of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Sébastien and Jodi delve into common driving behaviors to determine if they are ill... moreegal or merely impolite. They address a range of scenarios, from reversing on highways and driving on shoulders to lingering in the left lane and parking in EV charging spots. The discussion highlights that while many actions are discouraged and can lead to tickets, the legality often depends on provincial laws and police discretion. A key takeaway is that actions like driving on the shoulder or blocking EV chargers are strongly discouraged due to safety and fairness concerns, with clear penalties in place. The episode also touches on the complexities of e-bike regulations and the importance of considerate driving for community well-being. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 91: We’re Back with Another Road Rage Rants Episode!
In this episode of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi and Sébastien dive into their accumulated 'road rage rants,' highlig... morehting a significant increase in stressful and unsafe driving behaviors. They discuss numerous incidents, from aggressive maneuvering and improper lane usage to blocking charging stations and general disregard for traffic laws. A Sirius XM study revealing that 35% of commuters find their journeys worse and 41% stressful underscores the growing problem. The hosts emphasize that while some situations are humorous in retrospect, the underlying issues are dangerous and have serious consequences. They advocate for increased patience, emotional regulation, and consideration for other road users to create a safer and less stressful driving environment. The episode serves as a cathartic release for viewers who can relate to these common frustrations, reinforcing the need for better driving etiquette. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 90: Is the EV Era Over?
In Episode 90 of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi Lai and Sébastien Bell delve into the recent, often contradictory, news surround... moreing the electric vehicle (EV) industry. They discuss significant setbacks, including Stellantis discontinuing the Ram REV 1500 and shelving the Gladiator 4xe, Porsche scaling back its EV plans for a new large SUV, and Acura axing the ZDX after just one year. The hosts attribute these moves to a global slowdown in EV demand, particularly in lucrative markets like China, and shifting political landscapes, such as the rollback of CAFE penalties in the US. While acknowledging the challenges and the sensationalized title, they firmly believe the EV era is not over but is experiencing temporary headwinds. They emphasize that EVs remain a crucial solution for climate change, highlighting the need for continued investment in charging infrastructure and incentives, and criticizing political decisions that hinder progress. The episode also touches on the Nissan Ariya's discontinuation in the US and the ongoing debate about e-fuels versus direct electrification. less
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 vs VinFast VF 9 Comparison Test: The Good Goes Up Against the Great
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 emerges as the superior choice in a comparison against the VinFast VF 9, particularly excelling in packaging, efficiency, and user... more-friendliness. While both are large, three-row electric crossovers, the Ioniq 9 demonstrates a significantly better utilization of interior space, offering more comfortable third-row seating and cargo capacity despite similar exterior dimensions. The reviewer highlights the Ioniq 9's superior range, with projections exceeding 670 km, and its faster charging capability (up to 350 kW). The driving dynamics are also praised for being more refined and smoother than the VF 9. User interface and controls are a strong point for the Ioniq 9, featuring intuitive physical buttons and readily accessible settings, contrasting with the VF 9's more complex touchscreen-dependent system. Practicality is further enhanced by thoughtful family-friendly features and easier third-row access. The VF 9, while not a bad EV, suffers from a less refined ride, a larger turning circle, inconsistent regenerative braking, and lower-quality cameras, making it feel less polished and a generation behind. Despite the high price point for both vehicles, the availability of more affordable Ioniq 9 trims makes it a more compelling and well-rounded option. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 89: Ram Brings Back the V8: Are We Going Backwards?
In this episode of AutoTrader's 'Own the Road,' hosts Dan and Jodi delve into the controversial decision by Ram to bring back the Hemi ... moreV8 for the 2025 model year, reversing their earlier plan to replace it with the Hurricane inline-six. The hosts express strong disapproval of Ram's decision and the language used in their press release, viewing it as a capitulation to a vocal minority and a step backward in the pursuit of more sustainable transportation. They highlight that the Hurricane engine was superior in terms of power, efficiency, and smoothness, yet Ram's backtrack, framed as 'listening to customers,' is seen as a panicked, reactionary move driven by plummeting sales rather than genuine customer advocacy. The discussion broadens to touch upon greenwashing by automakers, the complexities of geopolitical resource sourcing for EVs, and the politicization of climate change, ultimately concluding that resurrecting the V8 is not the way forward for the industry. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 88: What's Happening to the EV Mandates?
This episode of AutoTrader's 'Own the Road' podcast, hosted by Dan and Jodi, delves into the significant news regarding the Canadian go... morevernment's reassessment of its electric vehicle (EV) mandate. The hosts provide background on the mandate, discuss its implications for infrastructure, and explore the potential consequences of delaying, rather than canceling, the policy. A key point of discussion revolves around the economic impact, particularly the prospect of importing cheaper EVs. The episode aims to clarify what the future holds for Canadian car shoppers and the domestic automotive industry in light of these policy shifts. While the video focuses on policy and market dynamics rather than specific vehicle reviews, it offers valuable insights for consumers navigating the evolving EV landscape. less
2025 VinFast VF 9 Review: A Big Improvement, But Still Wide of the Mark
The 2025 VinFast VF 9 represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, the VF 8, showcasing VinFast's commitment to refinement. The rev... moreiewer highlights the unique styling, improved ride quality on the highway, and a respectable real-world average energy consumption of around 22 kWh/100 km, which is better than its official figures suggest. The dual-motor AWD system provides ample power (402 hp, 457 lb-ft torque), though its 0-100 km/h time of under 7 seconds is considered slow for an EV. Key criticisms include a frustrating and overly complicated user interface, particularly for adjusting basic settings like steering column and drive modes, which reset after each drive. The synthetic leather upholstery is not breathable, and the climate control system defaults to the third row even when unoccupied and is quite loud. The lane-keep assist is described as jarring, and the regenerative braking system requires immediate application of mechanical brakes to prevent rolling. While the "Plus" trim offers many features like massaging seats, their execution is found to be loud and ineffective. Ultimately, the reviewer concludes that despite the improvements, the VF 9's biggest hurdle is its excessive price point, making it a difficult recommendation. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 86: How/Why Do We Review Cars?
This episode of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader' features the entire editorial team discussing their car review process. The hosts emphasize t... moreheir journalistic backgrounds and commitment to providing unbiased, consumer-focused advice to Canadians. They highlight the importance of making car information simple and accessible, avoiding overly technical jargon that might alienate readers. Key takeaways include the team's dedication to objectivity, their rigorous 10-category review format (styling, power, driving feel, fuel economy, comfort, practicality, user-friendliness, safety, features, and value), and their preference for reviewing mainstream vehicles that matter to the majority of consumers over exotic cars. They also touch upon the challenges of reviewing, such as limited time with press vehicles and the importance of personal experience over hearsay, particularly regarding reliability. The episode underscores the team's professional ethics, treating press cars with care and reporting honestly, even when it means criticizing a vehicle, to protect consumers. less
2025 Volvo EX90 Review: Put it Back in the Oven, This One's Not Done Baking Yet!
The 2025 Volvo EX90 presents a compelling vision of a flagship electric SUV, boasting a handsome design, a luxurious and practical interior crafted fr... moreom sustainable materials, and a powerful, smooth, and efficient dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain. The reviewer highlights its impressive acceleration, rapid charging capabilities, and sophisticated air suspension that glides over rough roads. Safety is a major focus, with advanced lidar sensors and driver monitoring systems designed to prevent accidents and ensure occupant well-being. However, the EX90 falls short of expectations due to significant software glitches, including a frozen infotainment screen and a black screen requiring multiple resets. Furthermore, several hyped-up technological features, such as bidirectional charging, are not yet ready for market. The user interface, particularly for features like adaptive cruise control and the key system, is criticized for being unintuitive and requiring the user manual. Despite its strengths, the high price point exacerbates the disappointment over unfinished features and software issues, leaving the reviewer to conclude that the EX90, while fundamentally good, is not yet the groundbreaking vehicle it was promised to be. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 83: How to Make Public EV Charging Better
In Episode 83 of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi and Dan delve into the persistent challenges of public EV charging infrastructur... moree and propose actionable improvements. While acknowledging global efforts and advancements, they highlight ongoing frustrations with inconsistent app functionality, payment methods, and charger reliability. A significant point of contention is the rollout of the North American Charging Standard (NACS), particularly the incompatibility of older Tesla Superchargers with non-Tesla vehicles, despite automakers advertising broad access. The hosts advocate for standardized payment systems, akin to gas stations, and improved user experience through better signage, lighting, and amenities at charging locations. They also touch upon the issue of non-EVs occupying charging spots. The episode concludes with a viewer question about Tesla tariffs, reinforcing the current advantage of Tesla's charging network for long-distance travel despite broader industry shifts. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader Episode 80: Answering Your Most Asked Question: Lease, Buy, or Finance?
In Episode 80 of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Dan and Jodi tackle the crucial decision of how to acquire a vehicle: lease, finance,... more or buy outright. They break down the complexities of each method, emphasizing the current economic climate with new car prices averaging over $60,000 and used cars over $34,000. Leasing is presented as an option for those who desire new vehicles frequently, highlighting its fixed residual value but cautioning about mileage limits and condition requirements. Financing is described as the path to ownership, with a strong warning against excessively long terms (84-96 months) that can lead to negative equity. Buying outright is acknowledged as the simplest but least common method due to the high capital required. The hosts stress the importance of negotiating the total purchase price, not just monthly payments, and advise viewers to consider their personal financial situation and lifestyle when making this significant decision. The episode also features an 'Ask an Expert' segment where a listener shares a positive experience with their Rivian R1T, praising its efficiency and features, and discussing the impact of EV incentives. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 78: Could Tariffs Actually Decimate Canada's Auto Industry?
This episode of AutoTrader's 'Own the Road' delves into the complex and rapidly evolving impact of U.S.-imposed tariffs on Canada'... mores automotive industry. Hosts Jodi Lai and Sebastian Bell highlight the significant disruption these tariffs cause, affecting everything from parts manufacturing to vehicle assembly and consumer pricing. They discuss the historical context, including the crucial Autopact, and explain why shifting production is incredibly difficult and costly due to decades of integrated North American manufacturing. The episode emphasizes the existential threat tariffs pose to Canadian auto jobs and production, with concerns that the U.S. is attempting to repatriate manufacturing at Canada's expense. While acknowledging the difficulties, the hosts explore potential future strategies, including diversifying trade partners and potentially offering incentives to companies like BYD to build in Canada. The overall tone is realistic and concerned, underscoring the systemic nature of the issue and its profound implications for the Canadian economy. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 77: The Hottest Takes from Our Car-Loving Friends
This episode of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader' dives into controversial automotive 'hot takes' from industry friends, rather than ... morea traditional vehicle review. Hosts Jodi Lai and Dan Ilika discuss opinions ranging from cars being too fast and the G-Wagen's impracticality to the perceived uselessness of remote start and the over-sizing of modern trucks. The discussion also touches on subjective takes like Audi's design language, the ethics of hypercars, and the necessity of manual transmissions in modern vehicles. A significant portion is dedicated to the growing reliance on vehicle safety systems and technology, with some guests arguing that 'the smarter they make cars, the stupider they make humans.' The episode highlights the divisive nature of automotive opinions and encourages viewer participation. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 76: Do EVs Need Incentives to be Successful?
In Episode 76 of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi Lai and Dan Ilika delve into the critical role of EV incentives in the success o... moref electric vehicles. The discussion is prompted by the recent depletion of federal and Quebec provincial EV incentive programs. The hosts highlight the controversy surrounding Tesla dealerships claiming a significant amount of incentive money just before the federal program ran out, leading to an investigation. Their core argument is that, in the current market, EVs cannot succeed without incentives due to their higher purchase price compared to gasoline vehicles and underdeveloped charging infrastructure. They cite examples from New Zealand, Germany, and Ontario, where the removal of incentives led to sharp declines in EV sales, underscoring the significant impact these programs have. The episode also tackles misinformation surrounding EVs, particularly concerning battery production and environmental impact, with the hosts emphasizing that, over their lifecycle, EVs are significantly better for the environment than internal combustion engine vehicles. They advocate for a collective effort, including government support and infrastructure development, to normalize EV adoption. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 75: Tariff Talk
In this episode of AutoTrader's 'Own the Road,' hosts Jodi Lai and Dan Ilika delve into the complex and dynamic issue of automotive tar... moreiffs and their potential impact on Canadian car buyers. The discussion highlights the deep economic integration between Canada and the US, making it difficult to isolate the effects of tariffs. They explain that consumers will ultimately bear the cost, with estimates suggesting an average increase of $6,000 per new vehicle if a 25% tariff is imposed, and potentially much higher for trucks. The hosts also explore the challenges of identifying 'Canadian-made' vehicles due to intricate supply chains. While acknowledging the desire to support local manufacturing, they question the viability of this if tariffs make these vehicles prohibitively expensive. The episode touches on the broader implications for the automotive industry, including potential job losses and the disruption to 'just-in-time' manufacturing, suggesting this situation could be more damaging than the pandemic's impact. A brief overview of vehicles currently assembled in Canada is provided, including Toyota RAV4s (non-hybrid), Lexus NX and RX (non-hybrid), Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Charger Daytona EV, Honda Civic and CR-V (non-hybrid), and the Chevrolet Silverado and BrightDrop EV. The episode concludes with a call for a return to stable trade relations, emphasizing that economic chaos benefits no one. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 74: Prediction for Cars That Won't Last
In Episode 74 of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi Lai and Dan Ilika delve into their predictions for vehicles likely to be discont... moreinued. The discussion touches on various factors leading to discontinuation, including underperforming sales and shifting market trends, particularly the evolving sentiment around EVs. They highlight the disappearance of affordable cars under $20,000 and express skepticism about the long-term viability of models like the Nissan Versa and Dodge Charger Daytona, despite the latter's impressive performance. The hosts also analyze the challenges faced by EVs like the Kia EV6 GT and Mazda MX-30 in the Canadian market due to pricing and range limitations, contrasting them with more successful models. The conversation also explores the premium SUV segment, questioning the market positioning of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Genesis GV80 Coupe. Finally, they address a listener's positive experience with the Audi Q4 e-tron, acknowledging its strengths while reiterating the persistent issue of inadequate charging infrastructure in Canada. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 72: Am I the Jerk? Part 4
In this episode of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi and Sebastien delve into Reddit's 'Am I the A-hole' subreddit, ... moreapplying their automotive expertise to listener-submitted dilemmas. The first case involves a sibling offering to help pay for a college car, only for the sister and parents to purchase a $65,000 Jeep instead of the agreed-upon $25-30k used vehicle. The hosts strongly side with the sibling, deeming the parents' decision financially irresponsible and the sibling justified in backing out of their commitment due to the significant overstep. The second scenario discusses a homeowner having a neighbor's cars towed from their new garage, with the hosts agreeing the neighbor was the primary jerk for unauthorized parking but suggesting the homeowner could have handled the situation with less immediate escalation. Finally, they address a man who called his girlfriend's car personification 'weird and embarrassing,' leading to their breakup. The hosts unequivocally label the boyfriend the jerk, highlighting his hypocrisy and lack of appreciation for his girlfriend's kindness and unique personality. less
Own the Road, Episode 71: AutoTrader Awards: The Best Vehicles to Buy in 2025
In Episode 71 of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi Lai and Dan Ilika unveil the winners of the 2025 AutoTrader Awards, selected by ... morea panel of 20 Canadian automotive journalists. The awards emphasize vehicles that raise the bar and are confidently recommendable, rather than solely focusing on the newest models. Key winners highlighted include the Ford F-150 for Best Full-Size Truck, the Ford Maverick for Best Compact/Mid-Size and Overall Truck, and the Toyota Sienna for Best Minivan, notably reintroducing an optional fridge. In the green vehicle category, the Kia EV9 dominated, winning Best Mainstream EV, Best Overall Green Vehicle, and Best Overall SUV, marking the first time an EV has won the latter. The Subaru Crosstrek and Outback retained their titles for Best Subcompact SUV and Best Compact SUV, respectively, praised for their practicality, value, and standard all-wheel drive. The Porsche 911 secured Best Premium Performance Car, with a nod to its new hybrid technology. The hosts also debated the classification of vehicles like the Subaru Outback and Crosstrek, with a consensus leaning towards them being crossovers despite their wagon-like appearance. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 69: 2024 Year-End Wrapup
This year-end wrap-up episode of AutoTrader's 'Own the Road' features hosts Jodi Lai and Dan Ilika discussing the automotive landscape ... moreof 2024. They note a surprising slowdown in electrification, with brands like Volvo and Audi adjusting their EV strategies. The discussion touches on the polarizing Tesla Cybertruck, which they dub the 'Cyber Yuck,' criticizing its design, perceived flaws, and the cult of personality around Elon Musk. The hosts also lament the lack of affordable EVs, particularly the discontinuation of the Chevrolet Bolt, which they argue is a significant blow to EV adoption. On a more positive note, Jodi highlights the VW ID. Buzz as her favorite drive for its joy-inducing nature, while Dan praises the Honda Integra Type S for its surprising performance. The Dodge Hornet plug-in hybrid is singled out as the most disappointing vehicle of the year due to poor execution. Looking ahead, they express excitement for the Hyundai Ioniq 7 and the Porsche 911 GT3, while also praising the Toyota Crown Signia as a well-executed, albeit not perfect, vehicle. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 67: What Does AI Mean for Your Car?
This episode of AutoTrader's 'Own the Road' podcast, hosted by Dan and Jodi, delves into the multifaceted impact of Artificial Intellig... moreence (AI) on the automotive industry. The discussion covers AI's current applications in vehicles, focusing on areas like data security, connected car technology, and voice assistants. A significant portion of the conversation addresses the implications of AI in automotive safety, including the complex issue of liability when AI systems are involved in accidents. The hosts also touch upon the role of AI in journalism and the ethical considerations surrounding its use. While the episode provides a broad overview of AI's presence and future potential in cars, it does not focus on a specific vehicle review or test drive, instead offering a high-level discussion of technological trends. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 66: Could EVs Be Over Before They Start?
In this episode of 'Own the Road with AutoTrader,' hosts Jodi Lai and Dan Ilika tackle the pressing question of the EV industry's futur... moree, addressing concerns that the electric revolution might be stalling. They debunk the notion that EVs are over, emphasizing the significant global investment and continuous technological improvements in battery chemistry and efficiency. The discussion highlights the crucial role of government regulations, such as the 2035 mandate, in driving the transition, while acknowledging the recent dip in consumer interest due to factors like affordability and macroeconomic conditions. The hosts critique the media's often misleading portrayal of EV financial losses, explaining them as R&D investments. They also explore the complexities of plug-in hybrids, questioning their role as a potential loophole and advocating for clearer strategies from automakers. The episode concludes by stressing the need for corporate responsibility, particularly in fleet electrification, and reassures listeners that government mandates do not equate to confiscation of existing gasoline vehicles. less
2024 Audi Q4 E-Tron Review: Small Update, Big Difference
The 2024 Audi Q4 e-tron receives a mid-cycle refresh that brings notable improvements in range and charging speed, making it a more compelling alterna... moretive to rivals like the Tesla Model Y, especially for those seeking a premium experience. The reviewer highlights Audi's signature upscale feel, quiet and smooth ride, and solid build quality as key advantages over competitors, emphasizing a sense of luxury not found in Teslas. However, the Q4 e-tron is not without its drawbacks. Its price can escalate significantly with options, and it still lacks a full one-pedal driving mode, a feature common in many EVs. While the estimated range has increased, it still falls short of the Model Y's figures. The reviewer also expresses dissatisfaction with the unintuitive gear selector slider and the auto on/off seat function. Despite these points, the Q4 e-tron's standard features like heated seats and climate control, along with the optional augmented reality display, contribute to a refined ownership experience. less
Own the Road with AutoTrader, Episode 63: What Would the Perfect Infotainment System Be Like?
In this episode of AutoTrader's 'Own the Road,' hosts Jodi Lai and Dan Ilika delve into the critical topic of automotive infotainment s... moreystems and smartphone connectivity. They highlight the current struggles automakers face in creating intuitive and safe systems, contrasting them with the seamless experience users expect from their personal devices. The discussion emphasizes the importance of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for providing familiar interfaces and essential functions like navigation and messaging, while also noting their inconsistencies and the potential for distraction. A significant portion of the episode critiques General Motors' move away from these standard integrations in favor of Google's built-in system, questioning the stated safety rationale and suggesting licensing or cost-saving motives. The hosts advocate for a return to user-friendly, smartphone-mirroring systems, with a particular fondness for a physical 'home button' and the muscle memory it enables for physical controls. They also touch upon the drawbacks of touch-capacitive panels and the importance of automakers leveraging tech expertise rather than reinventing the wheel. less