Auto News 5

All Hallow's Eve arrives tomorrow night, and in light of the scariest night of the year (besides the fateful spring day Matt St-Pierre breaks out his shorts for the warmer season), I got to thinking about the creepiest cars currently on the road.

Creepiness on the road is all about fear-inducing presence, either with a horror-movie scream from the exhaust or a demon-like look that can't be ignored (or forgotten). The Daimler Double Six comes to mind when I think satanic, scary rides. Sure, Christine was scary and Knight Rider may have been for the bad guys, but I'm talking production cars here: these are goosebump-inducing rides that weren't bred for the big screen, they were built to sit in your driveway (and scare your neighbour's kids).

They definitely don't make 'em like they used to. The likes of the Rolls-Royce Phantom Jonckheere are long since gone, but there are a few modern models that send shivers up my spine whenever I see them cruising down the street - and I know children are screaming somewhere in complete terror.

Nissan Quest

Photo: Sébastien D'Amour

I'm shocked that something so monstrous was allowed to leave Nissan's production plant. It's as if they either didn't look at the sketches at all, or purposefully agreed that making the ugliest, most offensive-looking minivan was a goal. And it's not just ugly, it's creepy. Minivans usually bring to mind families and weekend getaways, but the Quest makes me think of dark alleys, forboding music and dense fog on a dark night. Not cool.

Acura ZDX

Photo: Philippe Champoux

Perhaps it's the Acura's pointy, evil little face that gets my hair to stand on end, but there's definitely something about this vehicle that gets under my skin. In black paint, the ZDX looks ready to latch on and never let go, and not in a nice way. Narrowed headlights give the ZDX a serpentine facade that undoubtedly makes some jittery. No wonder there aren't many on the road...

Dodge Charger SRT8

Photo: Dodge

Perhaps this car is extra scary for me because they are the ride of choice for our men in blue. Tricked out with black push bars, the cop's Dodge Chargers aren't just intimidating, they're downright scary when spotted in your rearview (even if the lights aren't on). While our law enforcers do not have SRT8 models, when one such model stalks the roads, other motorists cower in fear as the 6.4L 8-cylinder howels. Like a murderer stalking its next victim, the Dodge Charger is the stuff of nightmares.

Ford Mustang GT500

Photo: Sébastien D'amour

It's not so much about this Mustang's looks that'll have you quaking in your boots, but more about the sheer aural presence it garners on the road. When we had the pleasure of cowering in its wake here at Auto123, the moment it roared to life a collective shiver was felt amongst all in its viscinity. There's something inherently scary about piloting a car that's trying to harness in 631 horses all trying to break free from the rear wheels at the same time. The 5.8L V8 makes such a tremendous sound when it barks to life, it brings to mind thoughts of sawed-off shotguns and Deliverance-type scenarios.

As I hand out candy to the kiddies on tomorrow's spookiest of nights (well, second spookiest), I wonder if I'm actually glad cars like the Buick GNX, Alfa Romeo Montreal and Buick Roadmaster Station Wagon don't exist anymore. Sure, serial killers and vampires have fewer cars to choose from nowadays, but does that just mean we've gone soft as a nation of consumers? Or are creepy cars on the rise again with the likes of the above currently on the roads today?

From GMM

Sahara Force India has added fuel to speculation it is considering Sebastien Buemi or Adrian Sutil to replace the Sauber-bound Nico Hulkenberg in 2013.

Officially, the Silverstone based team says it has not been told that German Hulkenberg is leaving, but other insiders consider it a done deal.

Nico Hulkenberg, Sahara Force India. (Photo: WRi2)

Team owner Vijay Mallya this week admitted 2011 driver Adrian Sutil is one potential candidate to replace Hulkenberg, while Red Bull's Dr Helmut Marko named Force India as a possible employer for current reserve driver Sebastien Buemi in 2013.

Otmar Szafnauer, Force India's chief operating officer, would not be drawn on the speculation, but he did hint that the team is not simply in the market for a 'pay driver'.

"If we do lose Hulkenberg to Sauber," he told the Swiss newspaper Blick, "then we have a list of some names. We do not need a driver with millions; we need the fastest one."

From GMM

Rubens Barrichello is refusing to give up on his formula one career.

After 19 consecutive seasons on the grid, the Brazilian veteran finally bowed out at the end of last year, when Williams signed countryman Bruno Senna to replace him.

Rubens Barrichello at Indianapolis in 2012. (Photo: LAT for IndyCar)

40-year-old Barrichello rescued his open-wheeler career in the US-based Indycar series, but he has told Brazil's Arena Sportv this week that he considers F1's door to be still open.

"I had 19 years of great excitement and pure adrenaline," he said. "For me, I would have been there (in 2012). You can never say never. Michael Schumacher and Kimi Raikkonen went back."

Rubens Barrichello at his last F1 grand prix with Williams, in Brazil in 2011. (Photo: WRi2)

"I think in life you have to have the dream of wanting to improve every day, so I cannot say no. When I saw Raikkonen come back I thought he would have the same difficulties as Schumacher, but he had a sensational year. He is third in the championship. He has not fought for wins but he got six podiums. I say this because I didn't stop and go to a completely different category; I've been more active. Physically and mentally, I would be prepared (for F1)," added Barrichello.

You can only do so much with big, heavy, super-powerful luxury SUVs. Even though Land Rover produces some of the toughest, roughest and lavishly equipped trucks for the well-heeled, trying to gain a broader (read: younger) clientele is quite a challenge.


Decisions had to be made. Some people occupying corner offices in Land Rover's headquarters probably resisted the idea to create a smaller, more environmentally friendly model, but it was all in vain. Some hardcore LR fans were probably insulted when Landr Rover introduced the LRX Concept on the auto show circuit.

However, the press and the public's reaction was unanimous: Land Rover couldn't back out now. And so, the Evoque was born.

Drop-dead gorgeous
And what a design! The 2012 Land Rover Evoque is simply stunning -- a masterpiece on wheels -- and a vehicle that pulls your attention away from anything you're doing, whether you're walking down the street, sitting on a terrace or behind the wheel of your own vehicle, which you'll instantly deem ungainly.

We award extra brownie points to LR for producing the three-door version of the Evoque. Besides our test vehicle, I saw only two other Coupés on the road, but plenty of five-door Evoques. Still, it's great that the customer gets a choice of body styles.

The production Evoque Coupé looks virtually identical to the concept, including the “bumperless” rear end, the slim greenhouse and the evil front fascia. From any angle, this crossover is simply breathtaking.

Superb interior finish
The Range Rover Evoque's cockpit design isn't as adventurous as the sheet metal's. However, it boasts a quality craftsmanship you'd expect in the bigger Range Rover models.

The two-tone leather seats in our tester are magnificent, not to mention very comfortable and supportive. Climbing into the back seat of the 2012 Range Rover Evoque is smiliar to your average compact coupe, however, once seated you'll find adequate head and legroom. The panoramic sunroof fills the cabin with light, providing rear-seat occupants with an airier environment.

In general, the 2012 Evoque's ergonomics are well thought out, but there are a couple of aspects that bug me (without being dealbreakers): The engine start button is unnaturally too high; the climate control rotary dials aren't fat enough; and I can't imagine trying to use them with gloves on; the infotainment and navigation system's touchscreen display button layout isn't very intuitive; and the slim windows obviously limit outward rear visibility.

Despite the relative smallness of the 2012 Range Rover Evoque, you get 550 litres of cargo space with the rear seat in place, and up to 1,350 litres with the seatbacks folded down. That's for the Coupé; the five-door Evoque boasts 1,445 litres of max cargo volume, so you don't lose much by choosing the version with two fewer doors.

Once seated you'll find adequate head and legroom. (Photo: Land Rover)

Quick and efficient
Unlike the other Range Rover models who rely on big, old V8s, the Evoque gets a powertrain that represents the mindset of a younger consumer base who cares (somewhat) about fuel economy and the environment.

The 2012 Range Rover Evoque's turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0L 4-cylinder engine produces 240 hp as well as 251 lb-ft of torque that peaks at just 1,750 rpm. The only transmission offered is a 6-speed automatic with wheel-mounted paddle shifters. You don't get the earth-scorching rush of a 510-hp Range Rover Supercharged, but this sensible crossover is still pretty quick, with a 0-100 km/h time of 7.6 seconds.

Land Rover's Terrain Response four-wheel drive system allows the driver to choose between several driving modes with the simple touch of a button. Our tester also featured the $1,400 Adaptive Dynamics suspension for enhanced on-road handling. The Evoque is no rock-climber, though, which is out of step with the rest of the brand's product lineup. Who really goes off-roading in their luxury trucks,(http://www.auto123.com/en/news/off-roading-in-luxury-vehicles?artid=148478) anyway?

Fuel economy is something new for Land Rover, and in that regard the 2012 Evoque performs way better than its family members. Our average over the course of the week was 11.5L/100km which is not bad at all, although a little far away from the official ratings of 10.9/6.9L/100km city/highway.

The 2012 Range Rover Evoque is powered by a turbo 2.0L engine that produces 240 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Matt St-Pierre)

An affordable Range Rover
The 2012 Range Rover Evoque is offered in three trim levels: Pure, Prestige and Dynamic. The base, five-door Evoque Pure starts out at $46,995 before tacking on options and trim upgrades. However, our Coupé Dynamic model carried an as-tested sticker of $66,400.

In the same price range, you can get yourself one of many luxury crossovers such as a Mercedes-Benz GLK or an Audi Q5; yet none are as exhilarating to look at as the Range Rover Evoque. As we see it right now, Land Rover has succeeded in its mission for recognition from a wider customer base.

From GMM

Niki Lauda has now started his new job at Mercedes, insisting his presence does not endanger the Brackley based team's current boss, Ross Brawn.

Officially, the Austrian great's role is to ensure a better link between the racing team in the UK, and the German carmaker's headquarters in Stuttgart.

"The job has already begun," Lauda told Bild newspaper. "I have a lot of contact with Ross Brawn. I want to learn what the problems are."

Ross Brawn, Mercedes AMG. (Photo: WRi2)

The 63-year-old revealed he has already been to Mercedes' Brackley factory three times, giving fuel to speculation he might soon replace Brawn, three years after the Michael Schumacher project is acknowledged to have failed.

But Lauda insists he has a "great relationship" with Briton Brawn.

Asked if Brawn's job has ever been in doubt, Lauda answered: "Never. It's not even been discussed. Ross has not been in danger and he never will be. He's the boss."

"I'm just the head of the supervisory board. I just have to look at everything and ask 'What are the strengths, what are the weaknesses?'" added Niki Lauda.

From GMM

With Mark Webber a massive 73 points behind his teammate but so far refusing to play a subordinate role to Sebastian Vettel, the 'team orders' issue remains a pertinent one as Red Bull pushes for another drivers' title.

Australian Webber said in India that he has no intention of "pulling over" for the sister RB8, despite rumours a specific points gap laid out in his contract now requires him to support Vettel's charge.

When asked about the issue by SID news agency ahead of this weekend's third-last race of the season in Abu Dhabi, Dr Helmut Marko answered: "We have always said that we appeal to the reason of our drivers.

"And they have in recent weeks demonstrated that they work constructively together, remembering that they must do nothing that is at the expense of the team," he added.

Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber. (Photo: WRi2)

However, on the record, Webber insists he is driving primarily for himself.

Is that just a reluctance to show weakness?

"Racers have a certain intelligence," Niki Lauda told Bild newspaper. "That was the same for me. If I had no chance to win the title, I was motivated to help my teammate."

"Webber is not going to say that, because he obviously doesn't want to show any weakness. But unless sheer hatred prevails, which isn't the case at Red Bull, you would rather see your own team win than someone else," added the triple world champion.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner is quoted by Welt newspaper: "Both of our drivers are experienced enough to know what is at stake for the team."

President Barack Obama's campaign said it will air an Ohio television ad that rebuts what outside observers call a false impression left by Republican challenger Mitt Romney about Chrysler Group LLC moving Jeep production to China.

Reynolds and Reynolds, a leading provider of business management software for auto dealers in North America and Europe, is exploring a sale to private equity that could fetch around $5 billion, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Ultimate Fantasy 6: Track Time, Anytime

Having your own racetrack.

As automotive fantasies go, what could be better than having your very own racetrack, where you can do as many laps as you want, whenever you want? Where the only other cars on the track are those you invite? And, for the ultimate in convenience, why not have it next door to your house? Because aesthetics count, too, you'd select a scenic location with views all around. Your house would be a beautifully renovated, 150-year-old Dutch colonial with an adjacent restored barn. To hold all the toys, a modern museum building would be ideal, with a 5000-square-foot pole barn as the working garage space. That's exactly what Alan Wilzig has created for himself on 275 acres in New York's Columbia County.

Photo Gallery: Ultimate Fantasy 6: Track Time, Anytime - Automobile Magazine

Photo Gallery: Ultimate Fantasy 6: Track Time, Anytime - Automobile Magazine

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BMW of North America said it will recall 45,500 of its 7 series luxury sedans from model years 2005-2008 to correct a flaw that could cause a parked vehicle to roll away.

GM and Ford, struggling to reverse growing losses in Europe, will each post plunging third-quarter profits this week as they take different paths to fixing their operations in that economically ravaged region

As the Atlantic's largest-ever tropical storm hit the East Coast, auto dealers closed showrooms, moved cars to higher ground and calculated the effect on October sales.

Spoiler alert: racing results ahead!

Production at GM's Oshawa, Ontario, plant could shut down later today as a strike at Lear cut off supplies of seats used in vehicles assembled there, the Canadian Auto Workers said.

Videos 29 Oct, 2012

Steve Fowler travelled to Morocco to put the all-new Range Rover through its paces

Chrysler Group's third-quarter net profit rose 80 percent to $381 million on strong sales of cars and light trucks in North America.

Ford plunged for the second straight year in Consumer Reports' survey of auto reliability and now ranks near the bottom of the annual scorecard. The Ford brand finished 27th out of the 28 brands; Lincoln fell to 26th from 14th.

News 30 Oct, 2012

The Hot Wheels Chevrolet Camaro has debuted at the SEMA tuning event

Pictures 30 Oct, 2012

Fiat-controlled Chrysler has boosted third quarter 2012 net profit 80% year on year to $381m from $212m a year ago after sales rose 18% to $15.5bn. Operating profit grew 46% to $706m.