Consumer Information
The Association represents B.C.’s new car dealers doing business in over 50 communities around the province and is seen as a reliable and credible source of information related to the motoring public.
Car Buzz
Photos and words by Andrew Ling – TechDriven.ca
Are you thinking of getting a new vehicle? Stay up-to-date on the latest concepts, electric vehicles, capable off-roading trucks and SUVs, cars, and more—offering greater range, fuel efficiency, and safety technology. A selection of models as featured in the NCDA’s Signals publication are shown below.
2025 Mercedes-AMG GT63 Coupe
Mercedes-AMG’s GT63 Coupe continues its super-car DNA to a brand new model, combining an AMG handcrafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with newly available 4Matic+ all-wheel drive and rear-axle steering for sharp agility.
The ride is surprisingly composed for such an aggressive machine, with the low-profile tires and performance chassis delivering feast and finesse rather than harshness. Inside you’ll find newly optional rear seats (though best suited for kids) and a cockpit rich in technology and luxury. That said, fuel consumption is as voracious as the exhaust note, as befits a sports car.
If you’re after an everyday-able all-season halo car that still thrills, the GT63 Coupe hits that rare sweet spot of exotic looks with usable year-round performance.
2026 Volvo EX90 Twin
Volvo’s all-electric flagship is a markedly larger, more premium three-row SUV that signals the brand’s full-tilt approach to EVs. It picks up where the XC90 leaves off. Clearly built to impress, it brings Scandinavian design elegance, high-grade materials, cutting-edge tech and, soon, an 800-volt architecture for faster charging. A re-imagined “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlamp design and vertical tail lamps still tie in those quintessential Volvo styling elements.
Complementing its large battery pack with almost 500 km of range, the dual-motor configuration offers strong performance, smooth ride quality and a minimalist cabin that suits premium aspiration. Early models’ ownership experience may have required patience, but software and connectivity refinements are still arriving. For buyers focused on the long term, the EX90 stands out as a great option within the three-row luxury EV market.
2026 Acura MDX Type S
The MDX Type S elevates the three-row SUV category with driver-focused features: a 355 hp turbocharged V6, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, Brembo brakes and Acura’s first-ever air suspension system for this model. Inside, the 12.3-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive carries over, replacing the old trackpad interface and modernizing the cabin experience and usability.
The ride and handling are more refined than you might expect in a seven-seat SUV and the 31-Speaker B&O Stereo can be enjoyed in the quiet cabin. Our Ultra Blue test car’s exterior colour sure made it stand out! Though smaller than full-sized body-on-frame rivals it still accommodates seven comfortably and manoeuvres well in tighter parking situations.
For shoppers who need family capacity but appreciate sporty character, the MDX Type S strikes a strong balance.
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9
Hyundai’s flagship EV for the three-row class brings impressive credentials: a generous 500+ km electric range, modern architecture, refined interior and competitive pricing that punches above its premium-market neighbours.
Its retro-modern styling makes it look smaller than it is, and smart packaging allows for plenty of quiet comfort inside for seven. The 800-volt architecture and NACS charge port is compatible with the 350-kw DC fast chargers, allowing for 10-80 per cent charge in about 24 mins. In a Canadian context, where winter range and charger access matter, the Ioniq 9 offers real appeal.
With strong value, thoughtful execution and performance that backs up the ambition, it’s a compelling choice in the growing large-EV arena.
2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
The Tacoma TRD Pro commands attention with its aggressive styling, wide stance, and off-road hardware that lives up to its name. Under the hood, the new 2.4-litre i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain produces an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful Tacoma yet. Power delivery feels strong and immediate.
The ride quality is surprisingly composed thanks to new suspension tuning and adaptive dampers, allowing the TRD Pro to feel comfortable on pavement while remaining poised off-road. The IsoDynamic seats help absorb impacts, though their design reduces rear seat legroom compared to other trims.
With pricing climbing into near full-size truck territory, it’s not cheap, but resale values for the Tacoma remain exceptional. Between its performance credentials, refined ride, and head-turning looks, this TRD Pro stands apart from the more overlanding-focused Trailhunter and will undoubtedly be a magnet for loyal fans and new buyers alike.
Helpful Consumer Resources
Discounts Available Through Your Insurance
The NCDA worked with ICBC to make vehicles equipped with factory-installed autonomous emergency braking (AEB) eligible for a 10% discount as AEB has been statistically shown to help prevent crashes. AEB is a safety feature that uses technology to anticipate when a vehicle is about to have a front-end collision and automatically engages the brakes without the driver’s action. The advanced safety technology discount applies to your basic and some optional coverages, as well as fleet and commercial non-fleet polices that meet the eligibility requirements.
Questions Regarding BC Auto Industry Regulator
The Vehicle Sales Authority (VSA) is an independent, non-profit regulatory agency that oversees the retail sales of personal-use motor vehicles in British Columbia. The VSA licenses motor vehicle dealerships, salespeople, broker agents, broker agent representatives, and wholesalers. Additionally, the VSA provides licensing courses and continuing education for VSA licensees, offers consumer information and assistance, investigates consumer complaints and provides dispute resolution, and undertakes compliance action as needed.
Vehicle Protection Matters!
Mechanical Breakdown Protection, often referred to as an extended warranty, is an option for consumers who want to avoid paying for costly unexpected vehicle repairs. Options are available for consumers buying a used vehicle or who want to extend the comprehensive coverage on a new vehicle. The best plans available offer complete protection, or what is known as exclusionary coverage, meaning that other than a defined list of exceptions, everything else is covered. They also include emergency roadside assistance, towing, trip interruption and rental vehicle benefits so you are never stranded as the result of a breakdown.
Environmental Leadership by BC’s New Car Dealers
The Program has been paused as of May 15, 2025 until further notice and is not accepting new applications.
Securing Your Vehicle from Theft
Have you secured your car with the 9PM routine? The Integrated Municipal Provincial Auto Crime Team (IMPACT) based in Surrey, BC develops innovative strategies to reduce auto crime in British Columbia – and currently operates four major initiatives: the Bait Car program, Automated License Plate Recognition, the stolen vehicle Enforcement Team, and public awareness. IMPACT operates and manages the Bait Car Program for the Greater Vancouver area, Vancouver Island, the BC Interior, and the North; it’s the largest Bait Car fleet in North America.
Class-Leading Vehicle History Reports
CARFAX Canada is Canada’s definitive source of automotive information, delivering vehicle history, appraisal and valuation. Drawing on billions of data records from thousands of unique sources, its products enable used vehicle buyers and sellers to make informed decisions. Formerly known as CARPROOF Corporation, CARFAX Canada is dedicated to transparency, and is trusted to provide impartial and comprehensive information to dealerships, vehicle manufacturers, consumers, major auctions, governments, insurance providers and police agencies.
Helpful Vehicle Owner Tips
Thanks to our partners at Carfax Canada, this section of articles from Driving Insights is an information series designed to provide resources and help consumers with their vehicle purchase and ownership experience.
For additional information related to vehicle purchase and ownership, please contact the New Car Dealers Association of BC.
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