PEI's Most Loved Centennial Auto Group Models
February 16 2022, Centennial Auto Group
One of our favourite things about Prince Edward Island are the people who live here. We might do things a little differently than others, but we’re also kind, generous, and passionate people. We know what we like (or in this case, what we love), and we stick to it. And when it comes to vehicles, this sentiment only gets stronger.
So just in time for Islander Day, we’re taking a look at what Centennial Auto Group vehicles Islanders love most! From road-ready staples to recent additions, it’s clear PEI has been seized by SUVs and there’s no end in sight. Follow along as we shine a spotlight on 2021’s best-selling models and find out what’s in store for 2022.
2021 Honda CR-V
Centennial Honda
The Honda CR-V is by far the longest-running nameplate on our list. Originally released in 1997, the first CR-V had only one trim level - LX. Equipped with a 2.0-litre straight-four B20B engine capable of delivering up to 126 horsepower and 133 lb.-ft. of torque, the CR-V was introduced as a "comfortable runabout vehicle," and even came fully equipped with a functional folding picnic table.
Almost a quarter of a century later, the 2021 Honda CR-V is still a “comfortable runabout vehicle,” with a few more bells and whistles and a lot more capability tucked under the hood. Honda has since expanded its CR-V lineup which now includes six different trim levels featuring a 1.5-litre, 16-valve, Direct Injection, DOHC, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, and can tow up to 1,500 lbs.
Honda’s CR-V may not be getting many updates for the 2022 model year (AWD will come standard on the 2022 Honda CR-V Touring), but we certainly have a lot to look forward to in 2023, when Honda will be releasing Canada’s first Hybrid CR-V and a redesign for its next generation models (sneak a peek here).
2021 Kia Seltos
Centennial Kia of Summerside
Next up is the newest vehicle on the market, the Kia Seltos. Following its North American debut in 2021, the Seltos was an instant hit here on PEI. Islanders loved its blend of affordability, luxuriousness, and functionality.
Upon its release, the 2021 Kia Seltos had five different trim levels to choose from, an available 1.6-litre Turbo GDI engine generating 175 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. This subcompact SUV is also capable of towing an impressive 2,000 lbs of cargo!
For the 2022 model year, Kia went all out on the Seltos’ standard equipment. They’ve added plenty of driver-assistance features including automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlamps, a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen is now standard on more of the Seltos's trim levels (EX Premium + SX Turbo), and all but the LX trim levels will come with automatic climate control and remote start. The 2022 Kia Seltos SX even comes with a flat-bottomed, D-shaped steering wheel and a new optional Sofino Burgundy Leather interior colour scheme.
2021 Mazda CX-5
Centennial Mazda
Hitting Canadian highways for the first time less than a decade ago, the Mazda CX-5 has been a favourite among Islanders since 2013. The CX-5 was the first model to feature Mazda's full suite of Skyactiv technologies as well as their Kodo design language. In 2013, the Mazda CX-5 came with a SKYACTIV-G 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder engine, and put out 155 horsepower and 150 lb.-ft. of torque.
After eight years of innovation, the 2021 Mazda CX-5 family has almost doubled in size, now featuring five trim levels to choose from. Engine displacement has increased 25% thanks to an available 2.5L Inline 4-cylinder T engine, while horsepower and torque have gone up 21% and 24% respectively, coming in at 187 horsepower and 186 lb.-ft. of torque.
As it turns out, the CX-5 only gets better with age. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 adds a new Sport Design trim between the existing GT and Signature trim levels, and every vehicle in Canada's Mazda CX-5 lineup will come standard with i-Activ all-wheel drive. The CX-5 also features a new wheel design and redesigned seats that provide greater stability in corners for the 2022 model year.
2021 Nissan Rogue
Centennial Nissan
Last but certainly not least, finally a vehicle Islanders and come-from-awayers can agree on: the Nissan Rogue. When the Rogue debuted in 2008 it had two trim levels, and was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine that delivered 170 horsepower and 175 lb.-ft. of torque. In its 13 years on the market, the Rogue has been a consistent top-performer for the brand, with almost 30,000 models sold in Canada in the last year alone.
The 2021 Nissan Rogue has five available trim levels, and comes with a 2.5-litre, DOHC, inline, 4-cylinder engine. Maxing out at 181 horsepower and 181 lb.-ft. of torque, the Rogue has earned its reputation as a reliable ride with top-tier fuel efficiency.
New for 2022, the Nissan Rogue boasts the best fuel economy of any gas-engine SUV in its class, and has an available all-new, 1.5-litre variable compression Turbo engine that generates 201 horsepower and 225 lb.-ft. of torque – an increase of 11% and 24% respectively over last year’s Rogue. The 2022 Nissan Rogue also comes with an optional Xtronic transmission, which drives a better acceleration feel and enhanced fuel economy.