Cruising under the Sun

The ideal vehicle is one you can enjoy at work or play. Keeping in mind the much-deserved summer season, we’re confident that these three rides are just what’s needed to unleash some enjoyment.The Mazda MX-5, Chevrolet Camaro, and Audi TTS are a triad of ideal, multi-purpose sports cars to take you anywhere under the sun.

Mazda MX-5
There’s a reason why the Miata – a car that’s been around for 20 years – remains a leading hallmark in the saga of roadsters. For two decades, its vibrant good looks and speedy personality have kept the sports car at the top of its game. And the same can be said today with the third generation MX-5. Carrying on Mazda’s long-standing tradition, it’s a personal favourite of many enthusiasts for its lightweight body – ideal to zip around city streets and country roads.

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The 4-cylinder MX-5 comes packed with 167-horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. A coveted sport mode gives the option of a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters on the GS and GT models. Available Bilstein shocks work together with the Dynamic Stability Control for a more riveting ride. On the outside, Miata fans will appreciate the rounded air-intake and front fog lights, combined with a silver-tipped dual exhaust and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Chevrolet Camero
Anyone who has a passion for the 1960’s muscle mobiles can appreciate the beauty of the Camaro. Stemming from a lineage of pony cars – known then as a series of performance-enhanced sports coupes – it first embodied everything a true roadside experience should. The all-new Camaro is no exception. Making its debut as a concept model in the 2007 blockbuster hit Transformers, the eye-catching beast is finally back to burn rubber again.

A standard 3.6-litre, V-6 engine pumps out a whopping 304-hp. But if you have that itching need for speed, an upgraded 6.2-L, V-8 is sure to please, delivering 400-hp speed as soon as the pedal hits the metal. A sleek body brings back nostalgia for its 1967 predecessor, with a few noteworthy upgrades. The V-8 optional Active Fuel Management brings a modernized touch, alongside a premium Boston Acoustic nine-speaker sound system.

Audi 2009 TTS
Here’s a unique little toy that has always spoken for itself. Audi’s roadster turned heads from day one, when the TT was unveiled for the first time at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show. Its curvy and somewhat futuristically smooth body paved the way for sports car designs in the automotive industry everywhere. But more than eye candy, the roadster delivers pristine performance and quality European craftsmanship – something mirrored in the latest TTS.

The six-speed S-tronic transmission and quarto all-wheel-drive is what makes the TTS’ 2.0 TFSI engine, with 265-hp so special. Whether you go for the coupe or the convertible roadster, rest assured you’ll get to where you’re going fast. The TTS will leap to 100 kilometres an hour in a startling 5.4 seconds. The whole encounter boasts style as drivers discover the S-line’s Alcantara leather bucket seats and hand-stitched,
three-spoke steering wheel. Also included in TTS upgrades are its grey dials, white needle design, and ergonomically outfitted gear knob.

No matter what’s on the summer agenda, the TTS, Camaro, and MX-5 each bring some robust, yet refined character to the picnic table. After all, reaching the finish line is only as important as savouring the season-inspired moment.

www.audi.ca
www.gm.ca
www.mazda.ca