Comparo: 2014 Chevrolet Impala versus 2013 Toyota Avalon

Story and photos by John LeBlanc It’s been more than 50 years since large sedans were the go-to choice for family transportation in Canada. Since then, the introduction of the minivan, the sports utility vehicle (SUV) and the multi-functional crossover utility vehicle (CUV) have meant big four-door sedans sales have been limited to the high-end […]

Road Test: 2013 Toyota Avalon Limited Premium

Story and photos by John LeBlanc About half a century ago (before the minivan, the SUV or the crossover existed), full-sized sedans met the family transportation needs for the majority of Canadian households. Today, however, big four-doors are just a blip on new car sales charts.

Dear John: Large, family sedans

By John LeBlanc While some parents use the excuse of having children to go out and buy a large people mover — like a minivan or crossover — this month’s Dear John letter is asking for advice on buying a new family sedan.

2010 in Review: Most Boring New Car I Drove

By John LeBlanc Toyota can blame all they want its current recall crisis for its poor sales performance (down 20.5 per cent in Canada this year in a market that’s up 13.6 per cent). But stodgy product, like the “new” 2011 Avalon sedan I drove this summer, is also at the top of the list […]

Top 10s: Grandfather cars

By John LeBlanc You — or someone you may know — may have a reached a point in your driving life where style, performance or the latest in engineering just don’t matter anymore. Welcome to the little known auto segment called Grandpa cars. Mainly large, serene driving, conservative sedans, these cars are perfect for your […]