Auto News 5

Adapted from GMM

As Honda officially announced its return to Formula 1 from 2015, Tokyo-born former Honda driver Takuma Sato has ruled out a return to F1 in the near future, insisting he is committed to the IZOD IndyCar Series.

Takuma Sato, BAR-Honda in 2005. (Photo: WRi2)

"Formula one isn't the only racing," the 36-year-old told NBC. "My first focus is to win races here, win the (Indy) 500 and win the championship."

German-language Speed Week, however, said it could be a totally different story for the newly-departed and formerly Toyota-backed Japanese Kamui Kobayashi.

It will be interesting to see if Honda's contract with McLaren will require the team to run a Japanese driver.

Takuma Sato cruising to victory in Long Beach, last month. (Photo: LAT/IndyCar)

Pros and Cons*
Pros
The interior of the 2013 Infiniti M features high-grade materials and well-integrated, ergonomic technology. Agile on the road, the Infiniti M also offers a good selection of powertrains, including AWD.

Cons
However, the car suffers from reduced rear visibility, costly option packages and a slightly diminished look - it is not yet in the same league as its German competition.


Price
The M37, equipped with a 6-cylinder engine, starts at $52,500, which shoots to at least $55,000 for AWD (M37x). This model includes a push-button smart key and a power sunroof.

Equipped with sport suspension, a navigation system, sport seating and 20-inch aluminum alloy wheel rims, the M37 Sport AWD is available for $63,500.

The M56, which features a V8 powertrain, is offered at $66,300 while the AWD M56x is available for $68,800. Both these prices include a navigation system and Bose audio system.

Starting at $73,500, the M56 Sport has all the equipment of a M37 Sport, but it's equipped with a V8 engine.

A hybrid version is available for $67,400.

Fuel Economy
The M37 is rated at 7.6 L/100 km in the city and 11.4 L/100 km on the highway. In four-wheel drive, its ratings climb to 8.3 L/100 km - city and 12 L/100 km - highway.

The M56's fuel consumption is rated at 8 L/100 km for the city and 12.9 L/100 km on the highway. With AWD, it's an additional 0.5 L/100 km.

Exterior Styling
Thanks to its pronounced curves, its distinctive, horizontal-lamelle grille and pronounced hood, this sedan is easily identifiable as a member of the Infiniti series. With tapered headlights and a domed rear, the Infiniti M has a classic presence.

Drivetrain
The basic powertrain includes a 3.7-litre, V6 engine which delivers 330 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque.

The sedan is also available with a 5.6-litre, V8 engine. Yielding 420 hp and 417 lb-ft of torque, the engine is coupled with a 7-speed transmission with manual mode for either the two rear wheels or on all four wheels.

The hybrid model is equipped with a 3.5-litre, V6 engine along with its electric engine.

Cargo Capacity
The trunk provides 422 litres of storage space, a little more than the Acura TL or the Audi A6.

Safety
Along with six airbags, electronic brake force distribution, vehicle dynamic control and a traction control system are a few of the 2013 Infiniti M's safety features sure to give drivers some peace of mind.

Comparable Models
Acura TL, Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Cadillac XTS, Jaguar XF, Lexus GS, Lincoln MKS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Volvo S80

Photo: Infiniti

*References
Crépault Michel, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montréal Transcontinental, 2012, p.322
Duquet Denis, Le guide de l'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions de l'Homme, 2012, p.342
www.infiniti.ca

According to what we have learned, Buddy Rice won't be attempting to qualify for the upcoming Indianapolis 500 in a third entry for Sam Schmidt Motorsports; the veteran having decided that the conditions weren't optimal for him.

Rice had agreed to drive the 34th entry on the 97th edition of the Indianapolis 500 roster.

Howver, the veteran driver changed his mind when he learned that, instead of being able to practice all week along with all the other drivers, he would only run the short program; Bump Day, Carb Day and Race Day.

“I appreciated Sam's effort and Honda was willing to take the risk if they needed 33 cars but I don't want to do a Bump Day program just to fill the field,” Said Rice. “I'd love to run Indy but only in the right way.” 


Katherine Legge or Jay Howard could be in the frame for that third car. 


Pros and Cons*
Pros
Its long list of standard features and alluring design are very impressive. Available options are way beyond what one would expect from a vehicle in this category. The dynamic ride and generous trunk opening are among the multitude of features and advantages that are standard in the 2013 Kia Rio sedan.

Cons
The engine is easily overburdened (especially in ECO mode) and the interior sound level is high. An options list that can quickly get out of hand and inflate the final price as well as the limited cabin space are definite liabilities.


Price
The base model LX starts at $15,350 and comes with a centre console as standard with stow-away armrest, steering-mounted audio controls, AUX and USB ports as well as 15-inch wheels and body-coloured outer door handles.

The LX+, with an MSRP of $16,850 is equipped with standard steering wheel mounted speed control, Bluetooth, foglights and heated front seats.
ECO-ACTIVE automatic transmission raises the total to $18,150 while the combination of idle stop/start and 15-inch alloy wheels brings the price up to $18,950.

At $18,850, the EX version comes equipped with standard backup camera, mirror-integrated LED signal lights, UVO infotainment system, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlight control, leather steering and shifter knob as well as a power sunroof. An extra $1,300 is required for the ECO-ACTIVE transmission.

The SX UVO is the most generously-equipped model with a refrigerated glove box, ECO-ACTIVE automatic transmission, chrome exhaust tips, LED signal and tail lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, leather seats, sport suspension, and heated steering. Optional navigation system brings the total to $ 23,350.

Fuel Economy
The fuel economy ratings of the 1.6 4-cylinder engine are an estimated 6.9 L/100 km city and 5.3 L/100 km highway.

In ECO mode these numbers fall to 6.8 L/100 km city and 5.4 L/100 km highway.

Exterior Styling
The Kia Rio Sedan was completely redesigned in 2012. The four door Kia Rio sports an upfront signature grille with some neat yellow highlights added to accentuate the oversized headlights.

Drivetrain
The only available engine is a 1.6 litre 4-cylinder that produces 138 hp and 123 lb-ft torque. It can be matched to either a manual or automatic 6-speed transmission.

Cargo Capacity
There is an available 387 litres of trunk space, which is 25 more than the Ford Fiesta.

Safety
Protection for the Rio Sedan occupants is provided by six airbags, ABS brakes and reinforced chassis.

Comparable Models
">Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, Nissan Versa.

Photo: Kia

*References
Rufiange Daniel, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montréal Transcontinental, 2012, p.342
Lefrançois Éric L'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.336
Morin Alain, Le guide de l'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions de l'Homme, 2012, p.362
http://www.kia.ca

From GMM

McLaren on Thursday opened the door for Jenson Button to lead the charge for the new works Honda partnership beginning in 2015.

Button's existing contract does not extend that far, and so when the 33-year-old was mentioned and quoted in Thursday's official statement, it did not say if the Briton would still be in the cockpit.

But McLaren's managing director Jonathan Neale said on Thursday: "I was just laughing with Jenson about it.

"Jenson will drive here as long as he wants to. He fits our values and our culture really well. He's here with the workforce this morning and it's more a question of hoping he will still be here in 2015," he added.

2013 McLaren drivers, Jenson Button and Sergio Perez. (Photo: WRi2)

Jonathan Neale said the Honda deal is essentially a "works" one, but clarified that there is no exclusivity -- meaning the Japanese manufacturer could sign customer teams.

"All manufacturers and engine suppliers coming into formula one know that they do so with an expectation that, should they be required, they are prepared to supply more than one team," he said.

Neale said McLaren is currently "the only team working with Honda", but rumours suggest Sauber and Lotus have made enquiries to the Japanese marque about price.

Pros and Cons*

Pros
Crisp, comfortable ride, stylish instrument panel, and numerous standard features are just a few of the many attributes of the 2013 Ford Focus.

Cons
Limited trunk space in the sedan version, complex controls, lack of a 6th speed for the manual transmission and an option list that makes the final invoice disappointingly high. Its excess weight has a negative effect on the fuel consumption.

Photo: Ford

Price
The 2013 Ford Focus sedan starts at $17,649. The SE version of this sedan sells for $19,599 and the Titanium version starts at $25,799.

The 5-door SE hatchback is available for a MSRP of $20,499. The Titanium 5-door starts at $26,699.

Fuel Economy
Fuel economy ratings of 7.5 L/100 km city and 5.2 L/ 100km highway are reported.

Exterior Styling
The fluid lines of the Focus give it a friendly demeanor. Both sedan and hatchback versions are easily identifiable with their unique bumpers, triangular air intake inlets and slim/tapered headlights.

Drivetrain
A 2.0 litre 4-cylinder engine pumps out 160 hp and 146 lb-ft torque and is matched to either a manual 5-speed or 6-speed automatic transmission (optional in S and SE versions, standard equipment in the Platinum) that power the front wheels.

Cargo Capacity
The sedan can hold up to 374 litres in its trunk while the hatchback offers 674 litres (trunk), and up to 1,269 litres (with seats lowered).

Safety
Six airbags and a number of active safety features assure peace of mind for the 2013 Ford Focus occupants.

Comparable Models
Chevrolet Cruze, Dodge Dart, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Mazda 3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, Suzuki SX4, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf/Jetta

Photo: Ford

*References
Joubert Antoine, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montréal Transcontinental, 2012, p.250
Duval Jacques, L'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.250
Fillion Nadine, Le guide de l'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions de l'Homme, 2012, p.280
ford.ca

Let's review Honda' first Formula 1 engine produced in 1964, almost 50 years ago.

By the early '60s, Honda had established itself as a very successful motorcycle manufacturer and wanted to try their luck on four wheels. Similarly, Honda was making successful racing motorcycles, and had the idea to graduate to F1.

Honda V12 Formula 1 engine (Photo: WRI2)

The first Honda engine that contested an F1 Grand Prix was pretty innovative, using the technology developed in motorcycle racing.

It was a radical little normally aspired V12 at 60 degrees of just 1495cc (just 92 cu. In.), with needle roller crankshaft bearings. It was located behind the driver's shoulder and mounted transversally, which was really unusual.



Each piston had a bore of 58.1mm and a stroke of 47.0mm. The engine head had four valves per cylinder activated by double overhead cams. The V12 could produce 220 horsepower at 11,500 rpm. Literature suggests that the little Honda engine was even safe to 14,000 rpm.

It used 12 Keihin carburetors, one for each cylinder, later to be replaced by low pressure fuel injection a little later.

American sports car racing-specialist Ronnie Bucknum drove the RA 271 car in 1964, contesting three Grands Prix and having to retire in all of them.

Ronnie Bucknum, Honda RA271 (Photo: WRI2)

Pros and Cons*
Pros
Luxurious interior, numerous standard features, ideal 50/50 front to rear weight distribution, precise steering and smooth ride are all good arguments in the 2013 Chrysler 300's favour.

Cons
Its excess weight, unsupportive seats and primitive all-wheel drive system disappoint.


Price
The base Touring model starts at $34,245.

The rear-wheel drive S starts at $38,245 and comes with optional all-wheel drive, which raises the price to $40,445.

For $39,245 buyers can get a V8-equipped 300C, which is also available with all-wheel drive at $41,445.

The 300C Luxury starts at $41,245, while the all-wheel drive version has a MSRP of $43,445.

Fuel Economy
The V6 rear-wheel drive/ 8-speed automatic transmission combination consumes 10.9 L/100 km city and 6.4 L/100 km highway. The addition of all-wheel drive brings the fuel consumption ratings into the 11.4 L/100 km city/7.3 L/100 km range.

V8 fuel consumption ratings are a reported 13.5 L/100 km city and 8 L/100 km highway, while the addition of all-wheel drive raise them to14.4 L/100 km and 8.5 L/100 km respectively.

Exterior Styling
This elegantly hunkered-down sedan, with its chrome grille, high beltline, and lowered roof is a definite head turner.

Drivetrain
The Pentastar V6 delivers 292 hp and 260 lb-ft torque, and the S model squeezes 8 more horses for a total of 300 hp from this same engine. The Pentastar V6 can be matched to either 5 or 8-speed automatic transmission. It comes in both two and all-wheel drive.

The available 363 hp 394 lb-ft torque V8 is mated to a 5-speed automatic which propels either the two rear wheels or all four.

Cargo Capacity
The 2013 Chrysler 300 offers 462 litres of trunk space.

Safety
This model is equipped with seven airbags and over 70 additional standard safety features.

Comparable Models
Acura TL, Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Impala, Dodge Charger, Ford Taurus, Hyundai Genesis, Nissan Maxima, Toyota Avalon

Photo: Chrysler

Highlights*
The 2013 Subaru Outback boasts good towing capacity and more ground clearance than most of its competitors. Engine selection, renowned all-wheel drive technology, and pleasant driving dynamics make this Japanese wagon/crossover a great package that's equal parts comfort and utility.

Lowlights*
The manual transmission lacks precision. Also, the quality of plastics in the 3.6R models fails to match the higher price.

Pricing
The 2013 Subaru Outback 2.5i starts at $28,495. The PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) option requires an extra $2,000. Prepare to shell out $31,095 for the Touring Package (dual-zone climate control, power sunroof, etc.), and $36,295 for the Limited Package (leather seats, multimedia interface, etc.).

Meanwhile, the Outback 3.6R retails for a base MSRP of $34,495. Adding the Limited Package brings the price to $38,495 -- or $39,995 with the available EyeSight system, which features four different types of assistance to aid drivers in traffic.

Photo: Subaru

Fuel consumption
Here, the numbers range from 8.6L/100km city and 6.5L/100km highway with the 4-cylinder and CVT combination to 11.8L/100km city and 8.2L/100km highway with the 6-cylinder engine.

New for 2013
The front grille and bumper, headlights and fog lights have all been restyled for 2013. The Subaru Outback also benefits from chassis and steering upgrades that improve handling, a more luxuriously equipped cabin, as well as a slightly more powerful, yet more fuel-efficient, 4-cylinder engine.

Styling
Subaru has found the right mix of sportiness, sophistication, and utility when it comes to exterior styling. The latest revisions give this ultra-capable wagon a sportier, more rugged, and more powerful look, the company insists.

Powertrain
Under the hood of the 2013 Subaru Outback is a standard 2.5L 4-cylinder BOXER engine that now produces 173 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, through either a 6-speed manual transmission or a Lineartronic CVT.

Looking for more juice? Then consider the larger, 3.6L 6-cylinder BOXER engine, which cranks out 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque with the help of a 5-speed autobox available with the 3.6R model.

In all cases, Subaru's symmetrical full-time AWD system comes standard to enhance grip.

Photo: Subaru

Cargo capacity
The 2013 Subaru Outback has a 972-litre trunk. Fold the rear seats, and you can load up to 2,019 litres of cargo.

Safety
Six airbags, whiplash-reducing front seats, Vehicle Dynamics Control, and ABS brakes all helped the 2013 Subaru Outback earn a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Let's not forget the aforementioned EyeSight system, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management, plus Lane Departure and Sway Warning.

Competitors
Audi A4 Allroad, Honda Crosstour, Toyota Venza, Volvo XC70


*Based on expert reviews.
Guay Jean-François, L'auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.516
Charette Benoit, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montreal Transcontinental, 2012, p.550
www.subaru.ca

Set to go on sale in Canada this summer, the all-new 2014 Lexus IS will start at $37,300 and offer no fewer than 22 trim levels, including 10 with an F SPORT package.

The 2014 Lexus IS 250 boasts a 204-horsepower 2.5L V6 engine, while the IS 350 gets a 3.5L V6 that produces 306 horsepower.

F SPORT models will be available with G-AI control, actively matching gear changes to G-forces generated during cornering. An 8-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission derived from the acclaimed IS F can also be had.

Pricing goes as follows:

The Lexus IS 250 RWD (starting MSRP $37,300) is available in five packages, including two F SPORT packages (starting MSRP $40,300);

The Lexus IS 250 AWD (starting MSRP $39,900) is available in six packages, including three F SPORT packages (starting MSRP $42,900);

The Lexus IS 350 RWD (starting MSRP $44,500) is available in four packages, including two F SPORT packages (starting MSRP $45,650);

The Lexus IS 350 AWD (starting MSRP $44,000) is available in seven packages, including three F SPORT packages (starting MSRP $47,500).

Photo: Alexandra Straub

German car manufacturer, Audi has won the classic endurance race of the 24 Hours of Le Mans 11 times over the past 14 years. The Audi cars have always run faster despite the reductions of engine output due to the regulations.

Audi engineers worked hard to increase the aerodynamic efficiency of the LMP car.

With the innovative micro-tube radiator, Audi managed to make a major step ahead. The conventional aluminum louver-finned radiator that creates high aerodynamic drag is now a thing of the past.

Photo: Audi Motorsport

The coolant in the R18 e-tron quattro flows through a system made up of more than 11,000 small tubes per radiator, and the radiators no longer require fins. These radiators can be freely configured. With the same radiator size, the pressure drop of the airflow can be reduced by more than 25 percent. Alternatively, with pressure conditions remaining the same, the size of the radiator can be reduced accordingly.

“The lap times reflect the significance of the strides that have been made in aerodynamics,” emphasizes Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich.

Photo: Audi Motorsport

“Of course there are many other influencing factors - the powertrain, the tires, the chassis, the ultra-lightweight design or the distribution of weight. To name just one example for the sake of comparison: In 2006, the fastest race lap at Le Mans was 3m 31.211s. The R10 TDI back then had 12 cylinders, 5.5 liters of displacement and, delivering more than 650 hp, was our most powerful LMP race car. Six years later, the best lap time was 3m 24.189s. Our cars had become more than seven seconds faster. But the V6 TDI engine of the Audi R18 ultra in 2012 was only allowed to have a displacement of 3.7 liters and delivered around 510 hp. A major share of these advances is owed to optimized aerodynamics. This year, we're competing with a long-tail body that we expect to deliver further advantages for Le Mans,” Dr. Ullrich explained.

Pros and Cons*
Pros
The 2013 Buick Regal benefits from a widely- acclaimed design, excellent road handling, comfortable seats, beautiful interior fit and finish and also from the fact that it is among the rare breed of sedans which offer a manual 6-speed transmission.

Cons
Caveats include an options list which quickly inflates the price, lack of rear-seat headroom, insipid 2.4-litre engine and questionable resale value.


Price

The eAssist-equipped base model starts at $36,845.

The Buick Regal Turbo 1SP and 1SR both start at $37,450.

The Regal GS has a MSRP of $41,455.

Fuel Economy
Fuel economy ratings for the 2.4 litre engine are rated at 8.3 L/100 km city and 5.4 L/100 km highway.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and manual transmission combination consumes an estimated 10.5 L/100 km and 11.1 L/100 km city and between 6.2 L/100 km and 7.4 L/100 km highway when equipped with the regular or high-output turbocharged engine option, respectively.

The automatic transmission brings these totals to 11.0 L/100 km and 11.4 L/100 km city and between 6.9 L/100 km and 7.4 L/100 km highway.

Exterior Styling
This modern sedan has fluid, contemporary lines with a semi-circle front grille and elegant rear tail light moulding that make it unique.

Drivetrain
The base 2.4-litre engine is equipped with eAssist electric drive and produces 182 hp and 172 lb-ft torque. It delivers this power to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.

An optional 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that produces 220 hp and 260 lb-ft torque is also available.

The GS model is equipped with a variant of this same turbocharged engine that produces 270 hp and 295 lb-ft torque that can be mated to either a manual or automatic 6-speed transmission delivering the power to the front wheels.

Cargo Capacity
The eAssist model offers 314 litres of cargo space while the turbocharged versions offer 402 litres.

Safety
The 2013 Buick Regal is equipped with no less than eight airbags.

Comparable Models
Acura TSX, Lincoln MKZ, Lexus ES, Nissan Maxima, Volkswagen CC, Volvo S60

Photo: Buick

*References
Rufiange Daniel, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montréal Transcontinental, 2012, p.152
Duval Jacques, L'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.159
www.gm.ca

Four motorsport categories will be in action to support Formula 1 during the weekend of the Grand Prix of Canada in Montreal, June 7, 8 and 9.

A total of eight races are on the agenda for a busy weekend.

Challenge Coupe Porsche GT3.

Ferrari Challenge, Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge, Canadian Touring Car Championship and Formula Tour 1600 are the four series that will each present two races after their respective practice and qualifying sessions.

Sunday the 9th will be extremely busy with the CTCC at 9 am, the Formula Tour 1600 at 9:45 am, the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge at 10:30 am and then Ferrari Challenge at 11;15 am. The Formula 1 race will begin at 2 pm.

CTCC, Honda. (Photo: Touringcar.ca)

Fans who would like to get tickets to attend the Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada should communicate without further delay with the ticket service of the Grand Prix du Canada at 514 350-0000 or 1-855-790-1245, every day of the week, between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Tickets can also be ordered on secured websites www.circuitgillesvilleneuve.ca or www.admission.com.

How's that for a model launch: Mercedes-Benz yesterday had the all-new S-Class flown in directly from its birthplace in Stuttgart for its world premiere at Airbus in Finkenwerder on board an Airbus A300-600 DHL cargo plane. Around 750 international guests from the worlds of politics, industry and media attended the event.

"Rather than being about safety or aesthetics, power or efficiency, comfort or dynamism, our aspirations were 'the best or nothing' in every respect. No other car stands for the Mercedes-Benz brand promise more than the S-Class," said Dr Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

From the ENERGIZING massage function of the rear seats to the new Burmester high-end 3D surround sound system, the new S-Class is said to be the true embodiment of a modern luxury sedan, complete with nothing but high-grade materials. It's also the first car in the world to dispense with conventional electric bulbs and exclusively use energy-saving LED technology both inside and outside.

Speaking of efficiency, the new Mercedes-Benz S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID burns only 4.4 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres. And this will soon be followed by the S 500 Plug-In HYBRID, the first S-Class to achieve under 4.0L/100km.

Prices and release dates will be announced later.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz

Porsche has released the first pictures of the production 918 Spyder hybrid two-seater and confirmed that total output won't be 718 horsepower as previously announced, but rather 887 horsepower. It combines a mid-mounted 4.6L V8 engine with an electric motor and decoupler on the rear axle, plus an electric motor, decoupler, and transmission on the front axle.

Weighing 1,685 kg (1,640 kg with the Weissach package), the Porsche 918 Spyder boasts a carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP) monocoque, two-piece Targa roof, and fixed roll-over protection system. It can sprint from 0-100 km/h in a ridiculous 2.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 340 km/h.

In full electric mode, the Porsche 918 Spyder offers a range of 25 kilometres or so, 0-100km/h acceleration in seven seconds, and a max speed of 150 km/h. The lithium-ion battery fully charges in less than seven hours using a 110V outlet, less than two hours using a 240V outlet, or less than 30 minutes with 400V power.

Great news: The 918 Spyder will act as the gene pool for the Porsche sports cars of the future.

Photo: Porsche

Pros and Cons*
Pros
Excellent build quality, numerous storage options and its smooth, quiet ride are just some of the strong points of the 2013 Cadillac SRX.

Cons
Poor lateral seat support, sluggish transmission, unproven reliability, restricted rear visibility and excess weight are some of the sorer points.


Price
The base SRX has a MSRP of $40,495.

The SRX Leather Collection starts at $43,595 to which an additional $3,000 is required for all-wheel drive.

The all-wheel drive SRX Luxury Collection model starts at $50,295.

The SRX Performance Collection model and Premium Collection models start at $53,795 and $55,795 respectively.

Fuel Economy
The V6 engine consumes an estimated 12.7 L/100 km city and 8.3 L/100 km highway for a combined 10.7 L/100 km rating.

Exterior Styling
This slim-downed version has an angular, chiseled overall appearance. There is a total absence of curves and rounded angles in this remarkably-designed luxury crossover.

Drivetrain
Under the hood of this SRX is a 3.6 litre V6 that develops 308 hp and 265 lb-ft torque that drive either the two front wheels or all four through a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Cargo Capacity
There is an available 844 litres of cargo room with five passengers which can be expanded to 1,730 litres when lowering the rear seat.

Safety
The Cadillac SRX is equipped with six airbags, traction and stability control along with numerous optional safety features.

Comparable Models
Acura MDX, Audi Q7, BMW X5, Infiniti FX, Lexus RX, Lincoln MKX, Mercedes-Benz Classe M, Volkswagen Touareg, Volvo XC90

Photo: Cadillac

*References
Laguë Philippe, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montréal Transcontinental, 2012, p.162
Lachapelle Marc, Le guide de l'auto 2013, Montréal, Les éditions de l'Homme, 2012, p.200
www.gm.ca

Mazda's on a roll
The completely redesigned 2014 Mazda6 is a stunner. There is no other way to describe the automotive physical specimen that sat silently parked in front of my house each morning of my test week.

The silence was fleeting as the moment the engine burst to life, the birds would scatter from the trees and passersby would turn in confusion. Seconds later, the engine would settle and the blissful driving experience delivered by the new Mazda6 commenced.

Mazda has hit a cycle with the 2014 Mazda6 as it caters to efficiency, performance, styling, and value. Mazda's on a roll for the 2014 model year.


What is a Mazda6?
The 2014 Mazda6 competes in one of the toughest segments in North America. In the U.S., midsize sedans still hold the top spot with the largest slice of the sales pie. In Canada, this category regularly finds itself in the top biggest sellers. In other words, the Mazda6 has its work cut out for it.

In essence, the new Mazda6 has become the brand's flagship car and for a number of reasons. Not only does it carry the brand's latest KODO design language and direction, but it is also built as a showcase for SKYACTIV technology; much like the 2014 CX-5, but meant for a larger audience.

Technicalities
The 2014 Mazda6 features one engine, regardless of trim and it is Mazda's SKYACTIV-G 2.5L 4-cylinder. The impressive piece of machinery pumps out 184 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. To it can be mated a 6-speed manual gearbox (a rarity in 2013) or, alternatively, a 6-speed automatic.

Currently, and probably for good as the wagon will probably sadly never come, the Mazda6 is available as a sedan and in three different trims. Prices range from $24,495 for a base GX all the way to $34,195 for the as-tested GT with automatic transmission and Technology Package.

The 2014 Mazda6 features one engine, regardless of trim and it is Mazda's SKYACTIV-G 2.5L 4-cylinder. The impressive piece of machinery pumps out 184 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the Mazda6
Once past the aural assault of the cold start, the 2014 Mazda6 drive as good as its exterior shell suggests. This is a rare treat for testers like me as I often find myself with a car that's all show, no go. The opposite can also be true.

Much like the CX-5, the transmission is especially good and it makes sense; both are identically geared, only the final drive differs. This translates to brisk acceleration and proper and clean up- and downshifts.

Some may protest the lack of a more powerful engine choice, but the 2.5L is plenty strong. Thanks to the transmission, passing manoeuvres are brisk as is acceleration from a dead stop.

Taking the 2014 Mazda6 out on the road is a good experience. The suspension expertly marries comfort and sporty handling. The rigid chassis plays a strong role in making this midsize sedan ride as well as it does. It positively rivals all other Japanese offerings in the segment, possibly surpassing all of them.

As for steering, the “conventional” (non-electric) variable-assist power assistance is pleasant and well calibrated. Where the brakes are concerned, they too perform admirably well.

The suspension expertly marries comfort and sporty handling. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and out of the Mazda6
I believe I've already made it abundantly clear here (and everywhere online) that the 2014 Mazda6 is honk-worthy hot. My evaluated GT sports the large (yet necessary) 19” alloy wheels that further add a layer of dynamism to the car's slippery shape.

The cabin is more of the same: Elegance and modernism blend to near perfection. In fact, there's a German quality to it where the level of seriousness is reminiscent of Volkswagen. Similarly, there's a beautiful flow to each of the dashboard's components mimicking the flow of the exterior body panels.

The off-white leather, black plastics and Soul Red Mica exterior make for a luxury car-like allure.

The front seats are quite comfortable, as is the rear bench. For the driver, the 2014 Mazda6 offers up a sporty driving position that works well with the thick-ish, 3-spoke steering wheel and the mounted shifter paddles.

i-ACTIVSENSE is Mazda-speak for all manner of active and passive safety features. Optional and part of the Technology Package ($2,000) with the GT trim it includes:

• Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC)
• Forward Obstruction Warning (FOW) which works with the MRCC
• Smart City Brake Support (SCBS)

There's a beautiful flow to each of the dashboard's components mimicking the flow of the exterior body panels. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the Mazda6
The 2014 Mazda6 is not in a league of its own. If ever there was a time for Mazda to introduce such a fine car, it was now. The 2013 Honda Accord and Volkswagen Passat are impressive in their own right, offering quality and efficiency. While other midsize sedans may sell in greater numbers than the latter, these two have currently established the bar.

Had Mazda unleashed a lesser version of the 6, they would have found themselves in the same position as the last time around. The previous Mazda6 was nice, but that was it; however, this version is amazing and will definitely fare much better.

Production of the Toyota Yaris in France started last week for export to the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. It's actually the first-ever Europe-built Toyota model exported to North America.

The assembly plant is located in Onnaing, near Valenciennes.

“With Quebec accounting for 65% of Yaris' Canadian sales, a warm welcome will be assured for this ‘Made-in-France' vehicle,” said Seiji Ichii, President and CEO of Toyota Canada Inc.

As a result, Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF) will now export its vehicles to more than 40 countries around the world, including South Africa, Egypt, Canada and the U.S.

Photo: Toyota

The DTM organizers will introduce a new light system to indicate which cars are shod on Hankook option tires.

The soft option tires have been introduced this season in order to improve the show on track, butduring the opening round in Hockenheim, it was difficult to identify which cars were running on option tires.

The option tires were initially marked with a yellow stripe, but it was still very difficult to see that mark when the cars were out on the track. In Brands Hatch, a LED system will indicate which cars are running on the soft compound.

A blue LED, located on each side of the car -- similar to the lights that indicate the number of pit stops already made -- will be activated when the car runs on option tires, and will be turned off when the car will run on the standard, harder tires.

Hankook option tire. (Photo: DTM)

The new Mercedes-Benz S class is 100kg lighter than the model it will replace and its greenest variant will emit less CO2 than a Smart ForTwo.