Teaser_Issue 25_Vicarious_2025 Spring Issue

A MECHANICAL CONCERTO 2025 Porsche 911 GT3

DRIVER'S SEAT 2025 Defender OCTA

FIRST RIDE 2025 Ducati Panigale V2S

DISCOVERED Jaguar Land Rover Classics

DISCOVER UNPARALLELED LUXURY IN THE HEART OF TORONTO

Embark on a journey of bespoke experiences, curated specially for you. Indulge in breathtaking views from your private abode, dine at award-winning restaurants & bars, rejuvenate with wellness therapies at Spa myBlend and soak in the quiet luxury of tailor-made services at the exclusive Club Lounge. An amalgamation of elegance and indulgence, The Ritz‑Carlton, Toronto is your ideal getaway.

Visit The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto Website

Drive Stress Away with Probiome

PHOTO : MICHAEL BASILE

Power Your Gut, Calm Your Mind!

44% REDUCTION IN STRESS

✓ Cutting Edge Probiotic ✓ Trusted by Professionals ✓ Backed by Science

Scan for more info. HealthSourceSupplements.com/Probiome

Quality. Excellence. Beyond Medicine.™ biomedicine.com | 1.800.665.8308

CONTENTS

Editor In Chief Contributors

PIN HIGH Golf As Life 30

DRIVER'S SEAT 2025 Defender OCTA

DISCOVERED Jaguar Land Rover Classics

ROADSIDE CHIC

PIN HIGH

DRIVE

FIRST DRIVE 2025 Audi A6/S6 e-tron FIRST DRIVE 2025 Porsche 911 GT3

ADVENTURE DRIVE On The Homestretch

FEATURED SUV 2025 Lexus LX700h Overtrail+

60 RIDE

Cabot Cliffs (Inverness, Nova Scotia, Canada)

FIRST RIDE 2025 Ducati Panigale V2S FIRST RIDE 2025 Krämer GP2-890RR

DISCOVER

DISCOVERED 35 Years of Lexus

DISCOVERED Centro Lamborghini

COVER PHOTO 2025 PORSCHE 911 GT3

DISCOVERED The Great Winter Escape DISCOVERED Utah Off the Beaten Path

Its 4.0-litre engine barks to life and then howls towards its 9,000 rpm redline before the first turn at Ricardo Tormo. Go to page 44 to read the full review!

OUR TEAM EDITOR IN CHIEF JEFF VOTH

100 GAME CHANGERS

The Trucking Company

106 FEATURED REGION

jvoth@vicariousmag.com EDITOR AT LARGE MATTHEW NEUNDORF mneundorf@vicariousmag.com SENIOR EDITOR DAN HEYMAN dheyman@vicariousmag.com TRAVEL EDITOR JESSICA JEAN MARTIN SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER KRISTIN PITMAN CONTRIBUTORS

Exploring New York City

114 FROM THE TABLE

Chef Hunter Guindon

116 CORKSCREW

Wine And Spirits

120 THE NEW FACE OF CIGAR CULTURE A Tobacconist's Perspective

124 GEAR UP! 127 TIME ZONE 132 BUILDING SPEED

BRIAN MAKSE CARMEN ELIA DAN HEYMAN EDWARD NARRACA EMILY ATKINS HUNTER GUINDON IAIN CRAWFORD JEFF VOTH JEFF WILSON JESSICA JEAN MARTIN

Part 1: She's A Brick- Car Part 2: Passing down a LEGO-cy

138 POWER BROKERS

Standard Of The World

144 TRAVEL EDITOR'S LETTER 145 NEXT TIME IN VICARIOUS

KRISTIN PITMAN LINDI DELPORT MARK HACKING MATT BUBBERS MATTHEW GUY MATTHEW KEITH MICHAEL LORÉ SCOTT PATRICK COWAN TOVI DELPORT DESIGN & LAYOUT JENNIFER ELIA NEWSSTAND DIRECTOR CRAIG SWEETMAN ADVERTISING INQUIRIES advertising@trqmedia.com PUBLISHER TRQ MEDIA INC.

82 DISCOVERED Centro Lamborghini

EDITOR IN CHIEF

JEFF VOTH

“I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” – Robert Louis Stevenson

THERE’S A TIME AND PLACE FOR everything—but sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do is tune out the noise and focus on what truly moves us. In a world that feels like it's shifting under our feet, with opinions flying fast and facts often trailing behind, it’s easy to get swept up in the chaos. But maybe it’s time to zoom out, breathe in, and see the road for what it really is: an open invitation to explore. Take the automotive world right now. If you listened to the chatter, you might think the electric vehicle revolution has short- circuited and stalled on the side of the road. The truth? Not even close. Despite the headlines, EV sales are accelerating— not slowing down. In Canada alone, sales jumped 12% in Q3 of 2024 compared to the previous year. The electrification journey is far from over; in fact, it's just picking up speed. I've been on the ground, attending launch after launch, and it's clear: automakers are doubling down. They're not walking away—they're all in, reshaping the road ahead with bold, electrified visions. But let’s not pretend it’s a one-way street. The internal combustion engine isn’t waving the white flag just yet. Far from it. Engineers and enthusiasts alike are finding new ways to push gas-powered performance to greater heights, chasing cleaner, more efficient power without compromising the thrill of the drive. So don’t buy into the all-or-nothing mindset— there’s room on the road for more than one kind of journey. At Vicarious , we live for the moments when machines meet meaning. We celebrate the beauty of design, the power of innovation, and above all, the freedom to move. But here’s the thing—we don’t

“At Vicarious, we live for the moments when machines meet meaning. We celebrate the beauty of design, the power of innovation, and above all, the freedom to move. ”

do this just for the love of cars and bikes (though we do love them). We do it because these machines are passports to adventure. They’re built to be driven, not locked away behind velvet ropes. They’re meant to take us out of our everyday ruts and into something wild, something freeing, something unforgettable. That’s why this issue is brimming with stories that will ignite your sense of wanderlust. From the icy extremes of Antarctica with the TransGlobal Car Expedition, to the scorching tarmac where the new Porsche 911 GT3 comes alive, to knee-dragging thrills aboard Ducati’s Panigale V2S. Senior Editor Dan Heyman travels to the legendary home of the raging bull to assemble a new Lamborghini Revuelto. We’ll even take your taste buds on a ride to Prince Edward Island, where Chef Hunter Guindon is redefining coastal cuisine at The Table. So, whatever the headlines say, here’s what we believe: the future is still wide open. The best way to face uncertainty is to hit the road, chase the horizon, and make memories along the way. Adventure isn’t just a destination—it’s a way of seeing the world. Let’s go.

UNPLUG. GET OUT.

This is the Outlander PHEV. It drives fully electric. But it also has a backup gas engine. So you get the range and the efficiency to drive your ambition.

CONTRIBUTORS

JEFF WILSON

MATT BUBBERS

Jeff Wilson is a producer with Emmy-nominated production company Echo Bay Media, known for travel productions like Departures, Descending, Into The Rising Sun, and Over the Horizon, enjoyed around the world on Travel Channel, National Geographic, Netflix and Discovery to name a few. The team’s adventures have enabled Jeff to experience Sudan, Djibouti, remote islands in Papua, and motorcycling across the Jordanian desert, although producing a culinary series in a 12th century French chateau was decidedly more comfortable. Jeff’s passion for travel is only surpassed by his love of machines and he’s spent the past dozen years sharing his award-winning photography and writing about cars, trucks and motorcycles in several notable online and print publications. When not behind the camera or keyboard, Jeff’s happiest behind the handlebars of a motorcycle, or the wheel of a sports car, exploring places he’s never been before, checking out the local culture and cuisine.

Matt Bubbers is a car critic and columnist who, for the last decade, has covered cars, culture, public policy, the auto industry and the (increasingly electric) future of transportation for The Globe and Mail and Sharp magazine. His work has also appeared in variety of publications throughout the U.S. and Canada, including CAA , Hagerty , Sotheby’s , Jalopnik , AutoTrader , Autoweek and, of course, here at VICARIOUS . His story about tracing the route of the Targa Florio through Sicily was nominated for a National Magazine Award in 2013. This job takes him to far-flung places to drive far-flung exotic cars, often around racetracks or over sand dunes or across frozen lakes. When not travelling on assignment, he’s at home with his family in Toronto, trying but mostly failing to maintain a garage full of needy old cars and an impulsively-purchased motorcycle. Yes, he knows he has the best job in the world and no, he doesn’t have a favourite car.

KRISTIN PITMAN

Kristin is the Social Media Manager for VICARIOUS Magazine, and the creator of The Delilah Blog - a lifestyle blog that has successfully grown a social media following across multiple platforms (IG: @thedelilahblog, TT: @kristin.pitman). Having these platforms has afforded her the opportunity to work with many different automotive companies over the years, and given her the hunger to learn (and drive) more. She is equally comfortable driving a manual transmission or the latest automatic tech. Kristin has a Bachelor of Music with a minor in English and a Master of Theological Studies. She and her husband Dave have two young kids, which gives her a unique perspective as she experiences and writes about each vehicle from that lens.

MARK HACKING

Mark Hacking is an award-winning editor/writer/ photographer with over 25 years’ experience working with leading publications around the world. His byline has appeared in Architectural Digest , Azure , Departures , enRoute , Forza , The Globe and Mail , Intersection , Luxury Magazine , Montecristo , NUVO , Robb Report and the Toronto Star . Mark has also competed in a range of motorsports over the past 20 years. He finished on the class podium at Targa Newfoundland three consecutive times from 2004-06. In 2011, he raced at the Nürburgring Nordschleife with the factory Aston Martin team. In 2013, he became the first journalist to race in the Ferrari Challenge, finishing third in class in both outings. In 2019, he was the first journalist in the world to race in the Jaguar I-PACE eTrophy, the first- ever all-electric production car race series.

JESSICA JEAN MARTIN Jessica Jean Martin is a seasoned writer and photographer whose love for travel began in childhood, exploring diverse destinations throughout Europe and as far as Venezuela, and Morocco with her family. This early exposure to different cultures ignited a lifelong passion for globetrotting, which she now combines with her interior design background, drawing inspiration from every corner of the world. Writing and photography for national newspapers and magazines, with assignments taking her across the globe. She has a particular talent for capturing the essence of places and people through her lens, bringing the stories of her adventures to life for her readers. Always eager for the next adventure, whether by plane, train, or automobile, she has made unforgettable memories in places like China and Vietnam. With a growing bucket list and a love for animating the locations she visits through vivid storytelling and photography, she continues to explore new horizons, eager to share new experiences with her family and readers alike.

EMILY ATKINS

Emily is happiest behind the wheel, preferably of something quick. A journalist since the age of about 8, she's been writing about cars for 15 years, funding her passion for racing. Emily competes whenever she can and has racked up numerous road racing championship trophies in her beloved #17 1994 Eurospec M3. Her journalism career has spanned three continents and numerous subject areas including logistics, waste management and insurance claims, but the best parts have been writing about cars for (among others) the Globe and Mail , Toronto Star , Automotive News Canada , CAA , Fleet Management magazine and Canadian Automotive Fleet magazine , and of course, VICARIOUS ! Emily lives in eastern Ontario and when she's not at the wheel or writing, she spends her free time singing in her band or outdoors skiing, cycling, kayaking and taking photos of the natural world.

DRIVER'S SEAT

2025 DEFENDER OCTA THE MOST AMBITIOUS DEFENDER EVER

Story

Mark Hacking

DRIVER'S SEAT

IF YOUR OBJECTIVE IS TO showcase the most dynamically capable Land Rover Defender in history, it’s critical to plan some earthshaking adventures. So, when word arrived that the new Defender OCTA would be launched in South Africa, it seemed as if an epic experience was on the horizon. In retrospect, after some 600 kilometres of driving, much of it off-road, it was a case of mission accomplished. The organizational team at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) managed to provide ample evidence of the capabilities of this super-SUV, giving attendees the chance to test out many of the vehicle’s drive modes. Here’s what the launch event consisted of. First of all, we set out on the drive north of Cape Town towards a place called Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, a 7,486-hectare slice of heaven nestled in the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains. While the first part of this 250-odd kilometre drive is on pavement, the entire second half is on dirt-and-gravel roads. Now, a well-kept and unpaved road is no challenge whatsoever for any vehicle in the Land Rover line-up, let alone a Defender, let alone the most capable Defender in history. While the guide in the lead car instructed us to select the Grass/Gravel/ Snow drive mode for this stretch of the drive, I’ve no doubt at all that leaving the Terrain Response System in auto mode would’ve worked fine. We hammer along these roads at a decent clip. Speed limits are 80 km/h in most spots. There’s little traffic to contend with, but the ruts and loose dirt are significant every so often. The Defender OCTA is incredibly surefooted, so all of the drama is reserved for the occasional mini-slide that’s quickly corrected by the on-board computer. There are huge clouds of dust to contend with, especially as the speeds rise and the wind blows in an unfavourable direction; this is the only real challenge encountered during this first stage of the drive. The Defender OCTA is the fastest and most powerful Defender in the line-up. It’s

powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre mild-hybrid V8, sourced from BMW. This engine creates 626 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h time of four seconds. With the most highway-friendly of three different sets of tires available, the OCTA can hit a top speed of 250 km/h. It’s very fast, especially for a large SUV that can also work wonders when the pavement ends. When that very thing happens, the OCTA counters with the 6D Dynamics suspension system with hydraulically interlinked components. This same suspension system is used in the latest Range Rover Sport SV, where it creates an incredible breadth of capability— essentially, it’s a luxury off-road SUV that can also lay down competitive lap times on your average racetrack. For the OCTA, breadth of capability is again the objective, but it’s instead engineered more for high-speed prowess on unpaved surfaces. Other features unique to this mighty Defender include a raised ride height (plus 28 mm over a regular Defender 110), wider track (plus 68 mm), extended wheel arches, aluminum underbody protection, and revised front and rear bumpers. These features create a better approach angle, improved departure angle, increased wading capability and increased resistance to tight scrapes. Once we arrive at Bushmans Kloof, the driving becomes more adventurous. We tackle some sections of steep and jagged rock, nothing too extreme and certainly nothing beyond the capabilities of the vehicle. What these sections demonstrate, really, is how utterly unstoppable the OCTA is, regardless of the angle of attack. In a different section of the massive reserve, co-drivers jump on-board and guide us around a closed course that skirts a small body of water. Here, we’re instructed to press and hold the diamond- shaped button at the bottom of the steering wheel, which triggers the OCTA drive mode, unleashing the full potential of the V-8 and preloading a special off-road launch control system.

"We hammer along these roads at a decent clip. Speed limits are 80 km/h in most spots. There’s little traffic to contend with, but the ruts and loose dirt are significant every so often."

DRIVER'S SEAT

the braking system is capable of shedding pace with equal alacrity, the tires locking and unlocking expertly to dig into the soft ground. This is important because, in the corners, the OCTA will, understandably, understeer if you carry too much speed. Nothing on the course proves insurmountable, though, which underlines the fact that this SUV is engineered for some serious fun. On the drive event, we learn that, starting in 2026, Land Rover will compete in the famous Dakar Rally, using a vehicle based on the Defender OCTA. This vehicle will compete in Group T2, a class for production-based 4x4 vehicles, against the likes of the Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Land Cruiser. The final challenge of the drive event is particularly apt, given the Dakar news. We drive to a location called the Dunes, a dried-out lake some 10 km from Lambert’s Bay on the Atlantic Ocean. The Dunes has been transformed into a 250-hectare playground where owners of off-road vehicles are given free rein to tackle the sand in an eco-friendly fashion. In preparation for this challenge, the Land Rover technicians drop tire pressures by 20 psi at each corner to ensure there’s better traction available. We also select the Sand mode in the Terrain Response System and set off in pursuit of adventure. Long story short, the Defender OCTA is an absolute tractor. At various points in the dunes, becoming stuck seems an absolute certainty. The SUV slides sideways around the tighter corners, wheels spinning madly, digging in too deep when the opposite would have been the preferred response. But the resolute traction created by the all-wheel drive system pulls the OCTA out time and time again. First impressions are complete, then. My recommendation: fit the Defender OCTA with those racing harnesses, weld in a roll cage, add a fire extinguisher or two and you’re ready to tackle the Dakar Rally right now. The 2025 Land Rover Defender OCTA is now available for order across Canada.

This mode also encompasses a traction control setting with minimal intervention and a special ABS program that allows for some wheel lock to shorten braking distances. The braking system, by the way, includes 400 mm front discs and six opposed Brembo calipers, the kind of stuff typically reserved for supercars. The closed course is tight and the obstacles are significant, including two ditches that warrant double-caution warnings. (In rally racing, a double-caution is the second-most serious level of threat; it indicates an obstacle that could break a car in two.) With only two laps at our disposal, it’s impossible to gauge exactly how fast the OCTA could be when driven at full chat. Here’s what we did learn, though. Acceleration on loose sand is impressive, sending the Defender forward with impressive speed. Once underway,

"The Dunes has been transformed into a 250-hectare playground where owners of off-road vehicles are given free rein to tackle the sand in an eco-friendly fashion."

DISCOVERED

JAGUAR LAND ROVER CLASSICS HISTORY TAKES A FRONT SEAT

DRIVING A CLASSIC LAND ROVER

Story

| Dan Heyman

IF YOU HAVE EVEN A PASSING interest in cars – or the world of business, it must be said – or even if you don’t, chances are you’ve been hearing a little about Jaguar lately. The classic British brand whose models were called “the most beautiful car in the world” by none other than Mr. Enzo Ferrari himself recently announced that it was going through a massive paradigm shift into the world of the battery-electric vehicle. At the time of writing, there are no plans to make any gas-powered Jags going forward. Here's the thing, though; what of the world of classic Jaguars and Land Rovers? Those much-loved roadsters, coupes and four-wheelers that were the bastion of the British car industry for decades – as Jaguar moves in to this electrified future with the likes of the wild Type 00 concept, what’s being done to preserve their memory? Well, quite a lot, actually.

"...as Jaguar moves in to this electrified future with the likes of the wild Type 00 concept, what’s

being done to preserve their memory?"

In 2017 – ostensibly with the brand’s future in mind – Jaguar opened Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) Classic; a no-holds barred deep bow to all things classic JLR. Don’t be fooled by JLR Classic’s industrial- ish environs just outside their HQ in Coventry, England – the famous gates to the Ferrari factory in Maranello, this is not -- because inside this complex of low, single-story white buildings is the epicentre of Jaguar’s history. As soon as you step through the similarly nondescript double doors into the facility, you’re hit with it: there’s the requisite Jag and Landie memorabilia (books, bags, hats, LEGO sets) but this is more a showroom than a lobby, with a kaleidoscope of Defenders standing in formation on your left. To the right sits not an original XKSS (the roadgoing version of the Le Mans-winning D-Type racer) but a continuation model – which is an important designation. In 1957, a fire at Jaguar’s Browns Lane factory consumed nine of the 25 D-Types that were slated to get the road car conversion. Of course, you may be able to consume the materials, but no fire can consume a number and the VINs were preserved, allowing Jaguar to make these “Continuation” versions while keeping their original VINs. The one on display is owned by Jaguar and labelled Continuation Car Zero e.g. the first one they completed. Indeed, keeping everything Jaguar Land Rover Classic does as close to original as possible is an integral part of the game. “It’s not like we take all the old bits and throw them away,” said Rich Cotton, Product Marketing Lead at Jaguar Land Rover Classic Works. “We try to use as much of the original car as possible. At the price point these vehicles are, it's necessary we do that.” The “price point” Cotton’s referring to? Well, it’s definitely a case of “if you have to ask…” but nevertheless: think high six figures, sometimes landing over the seven-figure mark. The same meticulous attention to detail happens with the Land Rover department as well – those kaleidoscopic Defenders that greeted us upon arrival? They’ve all been built using donor vehicles and parts –

DISCOVERED

just 30 per year -- but have also been given a once-over to make them more tractable in the modern world. New ZF eight-speed gearboxes, New V8s, special wheels and interior touches are all the order of the day. To the naked eye, they are all classic Defenders but with a showroom sheen not seen for quite some time. Speaking of showroom quality: I will admit that my visions of a workshop in a facility entitled “Jaguar Land Rover Classics” were somewhat more spartan than what’s actually going on here. The lighting, the white walls and floors, the pristine lifts, cranes and tools without a spec of dust on them remind much more of Maranello than the Midlands. It’s one thing to see these vehicles displayed nicely up front, but to walk through here and see them on lifts and rolling roads and jacks in all their naked glory is a real treat. Look closely, and you may even see some things that haven’t quite been released; for now, all the Defender models have hard tops but I could have sworn I saw one with a cloth top just over there… What’s really interesting here is the confluence of what JLR has done over the years. It’s a rare thing to walk through a workshop and see an E-Type’s hood at one station, a Defender’s door at another and oh look! There’s an ultra-rare 1-of-300 XE SV Project 8 models leaving the body shop there and what looks like a Defender-based Bowler CSP Prototype making its way out of the rear of the shop and wait a minute… rear of the shop? What do we have here? Well, what we have here can only be described as a warehouse crammed with all things Jaguar, Land Rover, Range Rover and Swallow Sidecar Company, which would become “Jaguar” in 1945. Jaguar Land Rover doesn’t really have a company museum as such – an argument could be made for the British Motor Museum nearby, but we digress – so this is essentially as close as you’re going to get to anything “factory spec” or “official”. Defenders of all eras and body styles (including a cab-over military version);

"It’s one thing to see these vehicles displayed nicely up front, but to walk through here and see them on lifts and rolling roads and jacks in all their naked glory is a real treat."

Jaguar E-Types and XKEs and that car’s replacement, the XJ-S , Formula E race cars, Range Rovers, any number of XK120s 140s and 150s and my personal favourite, up there on the tops shelf: Bond cars – but not just any Bond cars. We’re not talking resto’d and machine gunne’d versions of 007’s Aston Martin DB5 – this is a JLR facility, and other brands need not apply -- or even bad guy Zao’s XKR from Die Another Day. Oh no; we’re talking something much grittier than that. You see, many of the cars used in the films not just by the main characters, but even by henchmen or tertiary characters were essentially loaned to the studio by JLR and when the shoot was over wouldn’t you know it? Many of those that survived came back. That’s why there’s a trifecta of Land Rovers with bashed in bumpers; they had crashed on-set. Or what about Mr. Hink’s (the one played by Dave Bautista) C-X75 supercar

concept? Oh, it’s here all right and with the burn marks – BURN MARKS – to prove it. Oh, and just for good measure there’s a pristine C-X75 parked just below and behind it. Incredible. It all serves to show how deep-seated Jaguar’s roots are, how conscious the brand is of its imprint on cars, on trucks and SUVs, on Britain, the world and indeed, on Hollywood. No matter what happens going forward, JLR Classic is here to show it sees no reason that it will ever be forgot.

ADVERTISMENT

Unlock the Potential of Your EV: Why ERANGE Tires are the Ideal Choice for Your EV Journey

A S ELECTRIC VEHICLES (EVS) performance. Among these components, tires stand out as a fundamental factor influencing not only the driving experience but also the range and overall enjoyment of driving your EV. Let’s delve into four reasons why ERANGE tires emerge as the superior option for EV owners compared to traditional all-season tires. 1. OPTIMIZED ROLLING RESISTANCE ERANGE tires are specifically engineered to minimize rolling resistance, a key factor in enhancing the efficiency of EVs. By reducing the energy required to keep the tires rolling, ERANGE tires contribute to extending the vehicle's range on a single charge. This optimization translates into tangible benefits for EV owners, offering the potential for longer journeys and reduced energy consumption, ultimately leading to cost savings over time. 2. ENHANCED TRACTION AND STABILITY The unique tread design and compound formulation of ERANGE tires provide superior continue to revolutionize the automotive industry, every component plays a crucial role in maximizing their efficiency and traction and stability, particularly important for EVs that deliver instant torque to the wheels. With precise grip and handling characteristics, ERANGE tires offer confident performance in various road conditions, including wet and dry surfaces. This enhanced traction not only ensures a safer driving experience but also maximizes the vehicle's efficiency by minimizing energy loss through slippage. 3. REDUCED NOISE POLLUTION EVs are celebrated for their quiet and smooth driving experience, and ERANGE tires complement

this characteristic by significantly reducing road noise compared to traditional all-season tires. The advanced engineering of ERANGE tires minimizes tire noise, contributing to a more serene driving environment for both occupants and bystanders. This reduction in noise pollution aligns with the sustainable ethos of EVs, enhancing the overall driving experience while minimizing the environmental impact. 4. TAILORED FOR EV PERFORMANCE Unlike conventional all-season tires, ERANGE tires are specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of electric vehicles. From the composition of the rubber compounds to the tread pattern optimization, every aspect of ERANGE tires are meticulously crafted to complement the performance characteristics of EVs. This tailored approach ensures optimal efficiency, range, and longevity, providing EV owners with a tire solution that maximizes the potential of their vehicles. As the automotive industry transitions towards electrification, the importance of choosing the right tires for electric vehicles becomes increasingly apparent. ERANGE tires emerge as the optimal choice for EV owners, offering a combination of performance, efficiency, and sustainability that surpasses traditional all-season tires. By investing in ERANGE tires, EV owners can unlock the full potential of their vehicles, enjoying extended range, enhanced traction, and a quieter driving experience while reducing their environmental impact. Make the switch to ERANGE tires and embark on a journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future on the road. For more information or to find your tires, visit ERANGETIRE.COM.

ROADSIDE CHIC

WHERE TO STAY

ROADSIDE CHIC is all about finding those hidden gems, the places that provide a perfect balance of comfort, luxury, exceptional service, and the opportunity to do as much or as little as you want. Spring delivers the promise of warm days ahead as thoughts turn from snowy days towards new growth, fresh air and a return to spending more time outside. Two exceptional cities feature in this issue of Roadside Chic. Dubai is taking the lead as a destination of choice for travellers looking to experience the best of what the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has to offer. Toronto remains one of the best cities in North America to enjoy a truly multi-cultural setting with plenty to see and experience, plus some of Canada’s finest dining and entertainment opportunities. Here are several of our current favourites certain to put a little spring in your travelling step.

Story: Lindi Delport Photography: Tovi Delport

Shangri-la Dubai Dubai, a city in the middle east that never sleeps. An oasis of never ending possibilities in the centre of the desert. There are so many choices of entertainment, accommodation and experiences. At the top of an endless list of luxury options you will find Shangri-la Dubai. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Dubai, this magnificent hotel is centrally located and nothing is too far out of reach. Boasting 302 luxury rooms with fantastic views of downtown Dubai and the Arabian Gulf, guests are certain to be spoiled for choice. The style of every room makes for a modern, luxurious feel but with beautiful original local artwork that pays homage to Dubai’s heritage.

personal preference. Enjoy your meal in the magnificent dining room mirroring the authentic souk. Shangri-la Dubai is home to seven restaurants and bars. Enjoy delectable pastries in the lobby lounge, or High Tea elegance over the weekends. Savour the taste of modern Vietnam at Hoi An. A fusion of authentic and complex flavours, produced by an entirely Vietnamese Kitchen, it will leave you wanting to try everything on the menu. The Tiger Prawn Ravioli must be mentioned as one of the most pleasing dishes you will ever have. If you’ve never enjoyed a Michelin Star recommended dining experience, book your table at Shang Palace, the signature restaurant for Shangri-La Hotels worldwide. Shangri-la Dubai is everything you’d expect from a 5 Star hotel, but special mention needs to be made of the warm and wonderful staff. From valet parking, to the check-in counter, to the dining rooms, each and every member of the staff will welcome you with a smile and readiness to assist in any need. In Dubai, the biggest challenge is deciding what experiences will make it on to your itinerary. With Shangri-la, accommodation is one less thing to think about.

The outdoor swimming pool is the star with beautiful sunbeds and staff ready to make your experience the most relaxing and luxurious yet. Enjoy a spritzer at Ikandy Ultralounge in the sun while taking in the majesty of the Burj Khalifa in full view. Upgrade to become a Horizon club member and enjoy private access to the terrace with evening cocktails and breathtaking views of the city skyline. If extra perks like breakfast and priority check in/check-out still isn’t enough to convince you, the indoor infinity pool on the 42nd floor overlooking the city’s tallest building most certainly will. If you are a lover of international cuisine, or have a picky eater in your company, you will find it all at Shangri-la Dubai. From breakfast to dinner, Dune’s Café offers an unending list of local and international dishes. With multiple live cooking stations, you are guaranteed a fantastic dining experience, catered to your

Sheikh Zayed Road, United Arab Emirates www.shangri-la.com/dubai/shangrila

“The style of every room makes for a modern, luxurious feel but with beautiful original local artwork that pays homage to Dubai’s heritage.”

ROADSIDE CHIC

Windsor Arms Hotel Nestled in Toronto's chic Yorkville neighbourhood, the Windsor Arms Hotel is a delightful blend of historic charm and modern luxury. From the moment you step through its grand stone entrance, you're transported into a world where timeless elegance meets contemporary comfort. The hotel's lobby is a testament to classic sophistication. High ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers cast a warm glow over the space, while plush seating arrangements invite guests to relax and soak in the ambiance. The tasteful decor, featuring rich wood paneling and elegant artwork, sets the tone for a refined stay. Culinary delights await at the Windsor Arms. The Gatsby restaurant offers a diverse menu that caters to various palates, serving comfort foods alongside an impressive selection of local craft beers and a 500 label wine list. For those seeking a traditional experience, the Tea Room provides daily afternoon tea services in a luxurious setting, complete with a grand fireplace and restored tiled flooring.

Story: Jeff Voth Photography: Iain Crawford

"High ceilings adorned with intricate

chandeliers cast a warm glow over the space, while

plush seating arrangements

invite guests to relax and soak in the ambiance."

"Served in the opulent Tea Room, guests can indulge in a selection of finely crafted sandwiches, scones, and pastries, accompanied by an extensive tea menu."

Each of the 28 luxury suites is a sanctuary of comfort and style. Spacious layouts feature separate living areas, cozy fireplaces, and large windows that bathe the rooms in natural light. Guests can enjoy amenities such as Nespresso coffeemakers, Molton Brown toiletries, and even musical instruments like guitars or baby grand pianos, adding a unique touch to the stay. A highlight of the Windsor Arms experience is the afternoon tea. Served in the opulent Tea Room, guests can indulge in a selection of finely crafted sandwiches, scones, and pastries, accompanied by an extensive tea menu. The serene atmosphere, coupled with attentive service, makes it a must-try tradition. For relaxation, the hotel's spa features an indoor saltwater pool that exudes vintage charm. The pool area, complete with a fireplace and wicker seating, offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city outside. Guests can also enjoy a range of spa treatments or unwind in the well- equipped gym. Staying at the Windsor Arms places you in the heart of Toronto's cultural scene. A short stroll leads to the Royal Ontario Museum, designer boutiques, and an array of dining options. Whether you're here for the arts, shopping, or culinary adventures, the hotel's prime location serves as the perfect launching pad. The Windsor Arms Hotel offers a luxurious and intimate escape, combining historic elegance with modern amenities, ensuring a memorable stay in Toronto.

18 St. Thomas Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada www.windsorarmshotel.com

PIN HIGH

GOLF AS LIFE

Story I

Michael LoRé

GOLF ISN’T JUST A GAME. Nor is it solely a sport. It’s a lifestyle. It’s an obsession. It’s a way of life. From its earliest roots in Scotland to today’s technology-backed iterations, golf represents something unique to each person who has ever picked up a club. Golf can offer a much-needed reprieve from the modern-day rat race. It can provide valuable quality time among family and friends. It can scratch a competitive itch, especially for former athletes. It can be a never-ending quest for perfection. Ultimately, golf is the great equalizer. Whether your annual salary is $3 million or $30,000, you’re a famous actor or kindergarten teacher, or are from Toronto or Timbuktu, golf doesn’t discriminate. Golf is man vs. nature. Nothing more. Nothing less. I first started playing in high school, not only because I wasn’t good at baseball, but because I knew golf would be a

valuable tool later in life, regardless of what profession I got into. Hardly a new or unique perspective, I’m glad I picked up that old set of Spalding Executives from my friend’s father and began my life-long relationship with golf. Like many, the game has periodically come in and out of my life, but it’s always there in the background. Golf triumphantly returned to the forefront for me personally and professionally over recent years. Golf granted us an escape from so much uncertainty during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and we haven’t looked back. As spring arrives in 2025, golf is more popular than ever. Not only is the game growing, but it’s evolving and changing. Your stereotypical golfer of yesteryear is now the minority, with influences injected into the sport, culture and fashion from far beyond the clubhouse. Golf is cool. Golf is young. Golf is diverse. Sure, some still believe golf should be played at a country

"Whether your annual salary is $3 million or $30,000, you’re a famous actor or kindergarten teacher, or are from Toronto or Timbuktu, golf doesn’t discriminate."

ABOUT MICHAEL LORÉ Michael LoRé is an award-winning journalist based in New York City. With more than 15 years of experience as a writer and editor, Michael has worked for daily newspapers, pro sports teams/leagues and online media startups. Having covered anything and everything from the World Series to surfing in Bali, Michael has honed his focus to covering and promoting the two sports he played growing up and is most passionate about: soccer and golf. A better writer than athlete, Michael’s work can be seen in publications including: The Guardian, PGATOUR.com, GOLF. com, Forbes SportsMoney, MyGolfSpy, Robb Report, Kingdom

Magazine, Essential Golf, AZ Golf Insider, and Travel + Leisure . During his time covering golf, Michael has interviewed some of the game’s biggest stars includ- ing Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Michelle Wie West, Justin Thomas, Xander Schauffele, Annika Sorenstam, Collin Morikawa, Lydia Ko and Bryson DeChambeau. Even more fortunate to travel the world to play some of the best courses on the planet, Michael has hacked it up at St. Andrews, Pinehurst, TPC Sawgrass, Cabot Cape Breton, Bay Hill and Kapalua.

club with tucked in collared shirts and stiff khakis, but opportunities created by venues including Topgolf, Five Iron and PopStroke are introducing millions of non-golfers to the sport in once-unimaginable ways. One side isn’t right, nor is the other wrong. Your relationship to golf is just that—yours—and it may differ from someone else’s. At the end of the day, we’re all trying our hardest to conquer the unconquerable, one stroke at a time. Cabot Cape Breton (Inverness, Nova Scotia, Canada) Despite boarding the shuttle with weary eyes, I couldn’t help but fight off fatigue as we embarked on the three-hour journey from Halifax to Inverness. While I definitely dozed off here and there, I was eagerly anticipating arriving at our final destination: Cabot Cape Breton. Upon arriving, we were treated to a cacophony of colours and endless ocean vistas that distinguish the resort. Featuring two 18-hole courses, a 10-hole short course called The Nest, 72 rooms at the Cabot Links Lodge, 19 golf villas, 30 homes and three on-site restaurants, Cabot Cape Breton is a Canadian links golf paradise.

Overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Cabot is divided into two courses: Cabot Cliffs and Cabot Links. Ranked No. 52 on Golf Digest’s top 100 courses in the world for 2023-24, Cabot Cliffs is a recent masterpiece from Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. The 6,835-yard track alternates between big dunes at the southern end and cliffs at the northern that rise more than 100 feet above the water. Initially hesitant about our 2 p.m. tee time, it actually worked out perfectly as we came down the final stretch, playing holes 16-18 along the water with the setting sun on the horizon. At 176 yards from the tips, the par-3 16th offers an awe-inspiring-yet- nerve-wracking tee shot across a rocky abyss as golfers debate attacking the pin or playing more conservatively to the left, though the ball still rolls favourably toward the green thanks to the slope. As if that wasn’t enough, the 331-yard par-4 17th features a blind uphill tee shot that

Photos feature Cabot Cliffs

"The 6,835-yard track alternates between big dunes at the southern end and cliffs at the northern that rise more than 100 feet above the water."

PIN HIGH

Cabot Links

looks longer than you’d think. Like on 16, a favourable slope can help provide additional carry toward the green, even setting some up for a cheeky Texas wedge or putter approach. After surviving the wind and elements at Cliffs, the following day we tried our best at Cabot Links, a 6,860-yard, par 70 stretching between the sea and village of Inverness, with each hole offering an eye-catching ocean view. With five holes directly adjacent to the beach, Canada’s first authentic links course transports you from the Great White North to the Home of Golf without the transatlantic flight to Scotland. Open May to October, this walking- only resort is no better display of why Nova Scotia is Latin for New Scotland. Driving down the fairway in pursuit of our tee shots, we witnessed an attendant seemingly coming out of nowhere from our peripherals. Were we playing too slow? Did we do something wrong? While I’m learning Spanish on Duolingo, I’m definitely not conversational. … But after Finca Cortesin (Casares, Malaga, Spain)

a cordial greeting, the man handed us a white bag … full of locally sourced fruit. Later during the round, we encountered him again, this time being offered a cup of chicken soup broth which was a lifesaver the following day when we replayed the course in the rain. I’ve played at courses across the U.S. and abroad but have never been offered fresh fruit or soup during a round. But that’s the kind of unique hospitality offered at Finca Cortesin, which makes guests and golfers feel at home by highlighting local fare. Opened March 2006, Finca Cortesin is an independent luxury golf, hotel and spa destination spanning 532 acres in Casares, Spain, between Marbella and Sotogrande. Less than an hour’s drive from Málaga Airport, Finca Cortesin’s 18-hole course is a reflection of the retreat’s tranquil environment. Limited to 100 rounds per day at 12-minute intervals with the first tee time at 8:24 a.m., Finca doesn’t want overcrowded clubhouses, locker rooms or pro shops—it was built for you to enjoy golf and the surroundings at your own pace. Home to the now-defunct Volvo World Match Play Championship from 2009-12,

"But that’s the kind of unique hospitality offered at Finca Cortesin, which makes guests and golfers feel at home by highlighting local fare."

Finca Cortesin returned to global golf prominence as host of the 2023 Solheim Cup, which is celebrated from signage, placards and other memories throughout the clubhouse and course. A good mix of risk-reward holes, Finca Cortesin eases you into the round with wide fairways on the first few holes, though precision is needed for approach shots around the greens. The first real test comes on the 333-yard 4th where long hitters can attempt to go for the green by cutting part of the lake as more conservative players can safely lay up in the fairway to the right. The signature 13th offers a wide fairway as bunkers and local Acebuches (wild olive

trees) flank the green for a picturesque approach, regardless of where your ball stops rolling. With views of the Estepona Mountains, inviting fairways, elevation changes aplenty and pleasant hospitality, Finca Cortesin is a must-play in Southern Spain, though it will cost a pretty penny as rates range from $370-445 depending on the season. Boasting more than 320 days of sunshine each year and average temperatures around 65 degrees, it’s no surprise the region is called Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun), though as home to 70+ courses, it could be called Costa del Golf as well.

PAIRED FOR THE COURSE WHAT’S NEW IN GOLF APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES

PIN HIGH

Lululemon ShowZero Polo The brand

PXG Wildcat Club Line Golf is hard and intimidating, especially for beginners. Whether you’re inspired to pick up the game from watching the Tour, TGL or content creators, finding the perfect starter set can be

initially known for women’s leggings and activewear continues to expand its products, especially in the golf space. After signing Min Woo Lee as an ambassador last

year, Lululemon welcomed Max Homa to the family prior to the 2025 PGA Tour season. Featuring the brand’s ShowZero technology, this polo virtually eliminates the appearance of sweat on the outside, while keeping you cool and dry on the inside. Available in seven colours, including Goodnight Plum worn by Lee and a bunch of his fans at the WM Phoenix Open, this slim fit polo is designed to help you cook in style on and off the course.

overwhelming. Rather than going to Golf Town or a PGA Tour Superstore and just grabbing something off the shelf, the PXG Wildcat club line was designed specifically for novice and occasional golfers. Available for purchase individually or as a set, these clubs were engineered to make golf more enjoyable by offering 16 degrees of loft on the driver and enhanced forgiveness on mishits with irons.

Reebok Question Reebok triumphantly returned to golf in December by signing 2024 U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and his Crushers GC LIV team. While DeChambeau will be the face

PGA Tour 2K25 We’re headed off the course and into the living room, basement, garage, man cave or whenever you play video games with PGA Tour 2K25, the latest iteration of the series from 2K. Play as your favourite male or female pros,

of Reebok Golf’s apparel and footwear offerings, including Nano Golf, their new performance golf shoe, former NBA MVP Allen Iverson may have overshadowed DeChambeau by announcing the upcoming Question golf shoe. Paying homage to his Reebok basketball shoe from his playing days, this spikeless golf shoe features a red toe bowling aesthetic and “Q” on the heel. Release date and price are still to be answered.

creators and celebrities or create your own golfer in this game that’s a hit with novice and diehards alike. Expanding upon the offerings of the biennial franchise, 2K25 gives users the opportunity to test their skills for the first time ever at the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club, 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club, The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush Golf Club, and even the Old Course at St. Andrews.

Boutique 28-room hotel offering an intimate escape in Toronto’s most prestigious neighbourhood Signature British-style Afternoon Tea, served daily in our Tea Rooms Unwind in our Spa and enjoy the serene saltwater pool, eucalyptus steam room & sauna

Experience Timeless Luxury in the Heart of Yorkville

(416) 971-9666

18 St Thomas St

info@windsorarmshotel.com

ROAD TEST 2025 JAGUAR F-PACE SVR 575 EDITION PHOTOGRAPHY | IAIN CRAWFORD

GO ONLINE TO READ THE FULL REVIEW

FIRST DRIVE 2025 AUDI A6 E-TRON & S6 E-TRON FIRST DRIVE 2025 PORSCHE 911 GT3 ADVENTURE DRIVE ON THE HOMESTRETCH FEATURED SUV 2025 LEXUS 700H OVERTRAIL +

FIRST DRIVE

2025 AUDI A6 E-TRON & S6 E-TRON A MASTERCLASS IN MINIMALIST LUXURY

Story

Jeff Voth

FIRST DRIVE

THE ISLAND OF TENERIFE —where the roads snake through lush forests, wind around dormant volcanoes, and open up to breathtaking coastal views—is the perfect backdrop to test a pair of all-new electric executive sedans from Audi: the 2025 A6 e-tron and its feistier sibling, the S6 e-tron. It’s a place where you can truly stretch a car’s legs—or in this case, its electrons. At first glance, the A6 e-tron and S6 e-tron look like they’ve been sculpted by a team of engineers with a deep love for both wind tunnels and sci-fi movies. Smooth, flowing lines, an illuminated front grille that feels like it should be greeting you with a “Welcome, Commander” message, and a stance that says, “Yes, I’m electric, but I still mean business.” The A6 e-tron is the more refined, grand-tourer of the duo, while the S6 e-tron cranks up the aggression with larger wheels, sharper aero elements, and enough road presence to make supercar owners do

a double-take. Both models sit on Audi’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE), which they share with the Porsche Macan EV— so yes, there’s some serious engineering muscle beneath that sleek sheet metal. Launching the A6 e-tron onto Tenerife’s coastal roads is like pressing fast-forward on real life. Even the base model with its dual-motor setup offers a hearty 422 horsepower (456 hp with launch control), while the S6 e-tron laughs in the face of restraint, pushing out up to 543 hp (available with launch control) with instant torque that makes passing slower traffic almost too easy (sorry, rental Volkswagen Polos). Despite its size, the A6 e-tron glides through corners with surprising agility, the low-slung battery pack keeping it firmly planted. The steering is precise but not overly talkative—classic Audi. The S6, however, turns everything up a notch. More power, a sportier suspension tune, and rear-

"At first glance, the A6 e-tron and S6 e-tron look like they’ve been sculpted by a team of engineers with a deep love for both wind tunnels and sci-fi movies."

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43