Coming Soon to Image Honda: 2014 Honda Odyssey

Image Honda is excited to announce that the 2014 Honda Odyssey will be arriving at our dealership sometime next month!  As we have previously mentioned in our blog, the Odyssey underwent a minor model change and is full of interior and exterior design upgrades.  New features like the “HondaVac” make this stunning model a must have.  Two new trims have been added to the Odyssey line up this year: the SE trim and the EX-L-Navi trim, giving the consumer a total of seven trim options.286946_635637346449297_1103444555_o

 

Whether you choose the base line model or the top-of-the line Touring model, Honda guarantees luxury for everyone with their standard features:

  • New colour availability, and interior pattern change
  • New 17″ and 18″ alloy wheels
  • 6-speed automatic transmission with Grade Logic control
  • Text message function
  • Expanded view driver’s mirror
  • LED taillight bars
  • One-touch turn signals

If you are looking for that little bit extra, we suggest that you take a look at the EX, EX-L RES, EX-L-Navi and Touring models that provide even more exceptional technology.

  • LaneWatch – Blind spot display
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Proximity key entry system and push button start
  • HondaVac in-car vacuum system (TOURING TRIM ONLY)
  • Power folding mirrors (TOURING TRIM ONLY)1008576_635637326449299_1228641143_o

As you can see, this incomparable vehicle provides you with options that are exclusive to the Honda Odyssey.  Please make sure you stay connected to Image Honda and Hamilton Auto Blog regarding arrival dates and other information.  As always, if you have any questions, please contact us at 905-561-4100 today!

By: Amy Cochren

Credit: Honda Canada

GM tops benchmark J.D. Power Quality Study

Exciting news!  General Motors has won 8 best vehicle awards in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey, with all GM brands ranking above the industry average this year! Topping the chart at number 2 is GMC, followed by Chevrolet, who jumped 10 spots from last year to land at number 5. Cadillac tied for 13th and Buick came in at 15.  What is even more exciting is that GMC and Chevrolet are the only two non-luxury brands to make the top 5. David Sargent, vice president of the global automotive practice at J.D. Power and author of the study said, “GM has the best quality of any corporation in the study, the first time it’s been on top.”  To us the dealer, this is solid confirmation, based on the opinions of General Motors customers, that we are producing the highest quality vehicles out there!

JD Power Quality Survey

This annual survey, now in its 27th year, closely measures the number of problems on 2013 vehicles reported after 90 days from purchase and ran from February to May of this year.   This survey had many updates, including more consumer feedback with particular focus to newer technologies such as: lane departure warning, navigation and voice activated systems.

As Chevrolet, Buick and GMC continue to improve the quality of their 2014 models, competitors such as Ford continue to experience a slump as they struggle with the quality of their technologies.  This year, they fell to 27 in the survey from the 5th spot last year.

These are exciting times for General Motors and Queenston Chevrolet Buick GMC.  We are proud of our product and thrilled about all the advancements in our award winning line-up.  If you are interested in any of our vehicles or have any questions, please visit us at http://www.queenstonchev.com.

By: Amy Cochren

Credit: GM Canada, autos.jdpower.com

Understanding Ontario’s New Drive Clean Test

drive_cleanOn January 1, 2013, Ontario’s Drive Clean program initiated a new test that reads your car’s computer history to ensure your vehicle meets Ontario’s emission standards and detects problems that often lead to poor performance or poor fuel economy.  Performed on cars, trucks, SUV’s and mini-vans from the model year 1998 or newer, the Government states this new test is 20% more effective in reducing pollutants then the previous one.

About Drive Clean:

Drive Clean is Ontario’s mandatory vehicle emissions inspection program.

Before taking the new Drive Clean test, there is some important information you need to know in order to ensure your vehicle is ready.  If your battery has recently been disconnected or your vehicle has been repaired, you could fail the test, as your vehicles built-in computer may not be readable. You can typically reset your vehicle’s computer with a day or two of normal highway driving to ensure it is ready for the Drive Clean test.  To learn more about the Drive Clean test visit www.driveclean.com

The Government also suggest taking your vehicle through a ‘generic drive-cycle’:

Step 1: Make sure the vehicle has been parked for eight hours without a start.

Step 2: Start the engine and let it idle in Drive for two-and-a-half minutes with the Air Conditioning (A/C) and rear defroster on.

Step 3: Turn the A/C and rear defroster off. Drive the vehicle for 10 minutes at highway speeds.

Step 4: Drive the vehicle for 20 minutes in stop- and-go traffic.

Step 5: Your drive cycle is complete. You can now go in for your test.

The cost for the test is a standard $35 – you must pass the emissions test in order to renew your license sticker, so it is important to not leave it to the last minute.  If you fail, you will receive a reduced price if you return to our dealership within 120 days of having your first one completed with us.  Our certified technicians will go over your test with you and explain the results, as well as discuss any necessary repairs you may need in order to pass on the re-test.

Conditional Pass:

In some instances, we may give what is called a conditional pass.  This is given to individuals whose vehicle requires extensive emissions-related repairs.  In order to receive this, you must have had your emissions related repairs done at an accredited Drive Clean facility and you must have spent up to the Repair Cost Limit of $450.  This pass can only be used to renew your license plates and cannot be used to transfer ownership.  If you have any questions concerning a conditional pass, please speak with our service advisors.

If you would like to schedule a Drive Clean appointment with us or if you have any questions, please visit us at www.queenstonchev.com or www.imagehonda.com

By: Amy Cochren

Credit: Ontario Drive Clean www.driveclean.com