The Polestar brand may be relatively new, but its heritage is steeped in Swedish design and engineering. Polestar has been making waves with its clean, minimalist vehicles that deliver powerful performance. Enter the Polestar 3, the brand’s first foray into the premium electric SUV market, a segment already populated by heavyweights.

The Polestar 3 makes a strong first impression with its sleek yet muscular design. Its sharp lines and athletic stance will likely turn heads on the streets of Toronto or Vancouver. The Scandinavian minimalist aesthetic is in full force, with an elegance to its simplicity and just enough character to give it presence.

Inside, the cabin feels like a premium lounge, outfitted with sustainable yet high end materials that reflect Polestar’s eco-conscious philosophy. The design is clean, with a focus on technology that integrates seamlessly. The large 14.5-inch touchscreen, running Google’s Android Automotive system, is one of the highlights of the interior.

Under the hood, the Polestar 3 comes equipped with a dual-motor setup, producing around 500 horsepower in the Performance trim. This makes for brisk acceleration—expect 0-100 km/h in just under 5 seconds.

The adaptive air suspension ensures a smooth ride over rough roads, and when set to sportier settings, the Polestar 3 tightens up, offering a more engaging driving experience. Those who like bit of fun behind the wheel, such as on the winding roads outside Whistler, will find plenty to like.

Polestar estimates up to 506 km of range on a full charge, very competitive for the segment. For those commuting or running errands around town, the all-new Polestar 3 strikes a balance between practicality and style. Prices start at just over $85K.

The 2024 E450 4MATIC marks a significant evolution in Mercedes-Benz’s renowned E-Class lineup, embracing a blend of classic luxury and modern tech-forward features. The sedan offers an ideal mix of comfort and driving engagement, appealing to those seeking refinement with a touch of dynamic capability.

At the heart of the E450 is a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system, generating 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The mild-hybrid’s integrated starter generator adds an additional 20 horsepower and 148 lb-ft boost, ensuring smooth power delivery across the RPM range. The 9-speed automatic transmission pairs seamlessly with the all-wheel-drive system, delivering a composed yet engaging driving experience.

On the road, the E450 excels with a remarkably smooth and composed ride. Notably, even without the optional adaptive air suspension or rear-wheel steering, the ride quality is refined, bordering on the opulence usually found in Mercedes’ flagship S-Class models. It’s a quiet, comfortable cruiser, ideal for long commutes or weekend escapes, whispering luxury at every turn.

Mercedes-Benz has also packed the 2024 E450 with cutting-edge tech. The 14.4-inch infotainment display and 12.3-inch instrument cluster deliver a rich visual experience, though some may find the sheer volume of digital controls overwhelming at first. Features like augmented reality navigation, a 21-speaker Burmester sound system, massage seats, and advanced driver assistance systems, enhance the driving experience. However, some of the tech elements, such as the interior webcam or the dual-screen setup for the front passenger, may be more for the wow factor.

While its competitors may offer sharper driving dynamics, the E450 excels in delivering a serene, tech-savvy, and luxurious experience that few can match.

Hyundai has fully reimagined the 2024 Santa Fe Hybrid, giving it a striking boxy design that sets it apart from more conservatively styled SUVs in its class. The redesign isn’t just cosmetic—it also adds functionality, including a third-row option, a practical boon for families needing occasional extra seats without committing to a larger vehicle like the Palisade.

The hybrid features a 1.6-litre turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a 6-speed auto. Producing a combined 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, this setup offers smooth acceleration and seamless transitions between gas and electric power. So much so that I preferred it over the more powerful turbocharged non-hybrid Santa Fe.

During real-world testing, the Santa Fe Hybrid delivered impressive fuel economy, achieving an observed average of 6.3 L/100 km—exceeding official estimates.

Inside, the Santa Fe emphasizes usability and comfort, with dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard and there are practical touches like multiple USB-C ports, a floating centre console with storage, and generous cargo capacity add to its appeal. Hyundai’s focus on refinement extends to the cabin layout, with high quality and hard-wearing materials which should hold up over time.

Compared to other hybrid rivals, the Santa Fe delivers a similar experience at a more attractive price point, making it a well-rounded option for those looking for a stylish, fuel-efficient family SUV.

The all-new 2024 Honda Civic Type R builds on its predecessor with subtle but impactful refinements, delivering an even sharper driving experience and a more grown-up design.

Featuring a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 engine producing 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with VTEC, it is paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. The Type R doesn’t disappoint, with precise gear changes and a level of driver engagement rivaling performance cars costing a lot more. Despite its FWD setup, it remains one of the quickest and most responsive hot hatches in the world.

On the road, the Type R offers a thrilling yet accessible driving experience. Its chassis is tuned for agility, with communicative steering and impressive grip. The adaptive suspension is firm but not punishing, making it suitable for both spirited drives and everyday use. Thanks to the hatchback, it’s surprisingly practical, offering comfortable seating for four adults and ample cargo space, a rarity in this segment. The ride can feel a bit stiff for those accustomed to luxury vehicles, and road noise is noticeable at highway speeds—though that’s part of the charm for driving purists.

Inside, the Type R embraces sportiness with red accents, bolstered seats, and a driver-centric layout. Key features include rev matching, a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 12-speaker Bose audio system. These amenities complement the performance-focused nature of the car, making it both engaging and comfortable to live with.

With a starting price just over $50K, the Civic Type R offers a unique value proposition, competing with the likes of the Toyota GR Corolla and Volkswagen Golf R. It delivers a well-rounded package for enthusiasts who want high performance without sacrificing practicality. For those seeking an exhilarating yet livable car with the reliability of a Honda, the Civic Type R remains a top choice.

The 2024 Range Rover SV represents the pinnacle of luxury SUVs, targeting those who demand unparalleled comfort, performance, and exclusivity. Aimed at affluent professionals, the Range Rover SV goes far beyond the standard model, blending British elegance with a powerful V8 engine, plush interiors, and cutting-edge technology.

Under the hood, the SV is equipped with a twin-turbocharged mild hybrid V8, producing 607 hp, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. Despite its size, the SV remains agile thanks to four-wheel steering and adaptive air suspension, providing a supple ride on highways and Range Rover’s legendary off-roading capabilities. However, its mass makes cornering a challenge, and it is more at home gliding over rough roads than tackling tight corners at speed.

Inside, the cabin is nothing short of opulent. High-quality materials and exclusive satin-finished ceramics adorn every surface. Rear passengers are treated to Executive Class Comfort Plus seating, complete with massage functions, a reclining footrest, and a champagne fridge. This attention to detail underscores the SV’s focus on delivering a first-class experience for all occupants.

Driving the Range Rover SV is a serene experience. The V8’s power is muffled by excellent soundproofing, a reminder that the SV prioritizes comfort above all. Highway cruising is where this SUV shines, offering a soft ride, luxurious comfort, and enough tech features to keep every passenger entertained and comfortable.

At over $300,000 CAD, this SUV competes with the Bentley Bentayga and Rolls Royce Cullinan, delivering a similar level of luxury at a slightly lower price point.

The 2024 GMC Hummer EV Pickup is an audacious statement of power and performance in the rapidly expanding EV truck market. It’s a 9,000-pound behemoth that redefines what electric vehicles can do, boasting up to 1,000 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a staggering 0-100 km/h time of around 3 seconds, a feat usually reserved for high-end sports cars. The “Watts to Freedom” launch control hilariously feels likes a rollercoaster.

Driving the Hummer EV is both thrilling and unconventional. It feels surprisingly agile for its size, with four-wheel steering significantly helping with maneuverability. The Crab Walk feature, while designed for off-roading, is surprisingly useful for entering or exiting parallel parking spots.

Off-road, the Hummer excels thanks to adjustable air suspension, 35-inch all-terrain tires, and a host of cameras and skid plates to protect the underbody. Whether tackling tough terrains or urban streets, the Hummer EV is capable but remains a hulking presence.

Inside, the cabin reflects its rugged exterior with an industrial yet tech-forward design. Large screens and innovative video graphics dominate. There is no short of personality with this EV, which makes it absolutely fun to live with. Despite its futuristic tech, the truck does have a few compromises, for example, the cargo bed is usable, but relatively normal for a vehicle of this size.

For drivers a taste for adventure and a willingness to embrace bold, cutting-edge styling and technology, the Hummer EV Pickup is more than just a truck—it’s a lifestyle statement.