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The 2014 Toyota Corolla is set to hit Canadian showrooms next week, at a starting price of $ 15,995. The long list of improvements includes LED headlights, wheel-mounted controls, electric windows and door locks as well as Bluetooth connectivity.

The 2014 Corolla is available in four models:

• CE: from $15,995 with choice of 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission;
• LE: starts at $19,500 ,CVTi-S transmission;
• S: MSRP of $19,215, choice of 6-speed manual or CVTi-S transmission;
• LE ECO: from $20,250, new model, equipped with ecological drive mode indicator.

Photo: Toyota

Toyota may well be planning a hatchback version of the popular Corolla in order to attract younger buyers, which is a category of buyers that the Japanese manufacturer has trouble conquering.

"Nothing is official at this poin", confirms 2014 Corolla Chief Engineer, Shinici Yasui. He mentionned that Toyota is paying close attention to the opinions and tastes of younger buyers, who are reviving the hatchback market. A three or five-door Corolla could gain widespread popularity among these buyers.

Although the 2014 Corolla launch is merely weeks away, Yasui claims that ‘' the idea of a hatchback version isn't yet dead and buried''.

Toyota expects the average 2014 Corolla buyer to be around 50-years old. The manufacturer would like to seduce buyers under the age of 35.

Source : thedetroitbureau.com

Photo: Sébastien D'Amour

Google's driverless cars, which have been cruising along public roads in several American states for the past few months, may well be part of a fleet of taxicabs. The Internet giant is planning to use their autonomous vehicles as taxis in order to increase public awareness.

Google approached a number of automotive manufacturers in an attempt to form partnerships, but interest was lacking, as most manufacturers have spent considerable amounts in the development of similar technologies.

Google has thus decided to move on, and autonomous taxicabs seem to be the way to go. These vehicles, which can operate in a defined territory without driver assistance, could transport commuters in their daily drives, such as going to work.

Google, along with a number of autonomous vehicle developers, claim that in the next few years, driverless technology will actually make these autonomous vehicles safer to ride than conventional vehicles with drivers, and could, in the long run, decrease the need for consumers to possess their own vehicles.

Source : auto.lapresse.ca

Photo: Wikipedia

Technology that's both advanced and outdated
There are quite a few little CT 200h hybrids roaming around; designed to please those who can get by with the compact format and those who are willin to opt for luxury over Toyota's legendary rationality.

Unlike the Prius, design has the upper hand over practicality, and the quality fit and finish exude perfection. The CT 200h's engine offers smooth and efficient transitions between gas and electric power, in spite of the fact that its uses older nickel metal hydride (NiMh) batteries.

So, what gives? The infotainment system is a throwback from the ‘90s! I definitely expected more from the folks at Lexus.

What is a Lexus CT 200h?
A hybrid that eases the pain at the pump. The build quality and finish are world-class. On the other hand, the standard equipment list is quite sparse, and the many available options quickly add up.


2013 Lexus CT 200h F Sport Price and Specs
The 1.8L 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine is hooked up to a 60kW permanent-magnet electric motor that offers a full EV mode. Together, they produce 134 horsepower.

Lexus uses nickel metal hydride battery technology. Toyota claims that this choice is motivated by reliability. The price, as they are more affordable than lithium-ion batteries, is also an important factor behind this choice.

The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT) is not for everyone. Personally, I was not inconvenienced by its operation. You must keep in mind that these types of transmissions are noisier than conventional gearboxes.

This combination of technologies in the 2013 Lexus CT 200h F Sport helped me squeeze out 5.9L/100 km during the test period.

The MSRP starts at $31,450, while the Touring and Premium packages add $2,000 and $5,050 to the total, respectively. The F Sport Package brings the grand total to $37,400. For $ 39,650, you can benefit from the optional Technology Package

The 1.8L 4-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine is hooked up to a 60kW permanent-magnet electric motor that offers a full EV mode. Together, they produce 134 horsepower. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the 2013 Lexus CT 200h F Sport
Lexus scored some serious points with the CT 200h, and struck out on a few minor issues as well. Let's start with the strong points: the transition between the gas-powered engine and the electric motor is seamless.

In fact, this is a good example of the overall smoothness of this vehicle, which is exactly why it eventually may become annoying in the long run. My test vehicle was the ‘'F Sport'' model. In spite of the fact that it has a sportier suspension, the 2013 Lexus CT 200h F Sport lacked grip. The 134-hp engine is easily overwhelmed. I personally think that driving enjoyment, even in a hybrid (and even more so a Lexus hybrid), is what counts most!

Rear visibility is limited. This minor issue is mitigated by the integrated rear-view mirror backup camera, which I appreciated. This setup is, for me, a much more natural and precise system than the popular cameras that change proportions, thus changing perception.

The Lexus CT 200h's braking system also stands out. It is diametrically opposed to the Jetta Hybrid Turbo that I tested a few weeks back. It is precise, predictable, and natural. The regenerative braking system can be felt, but this is both normal and not too disruptive.

My test vehicle was the ‘'F Sport'' model. In spite of the fact that it has a sportier suspension, the 2013 Lexus CT 200h F Sport lacked grip. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Lexus CT 200h F Sport
I like the looks of this diminutive Japanese car. All curves, it exudes both luxury and youth. This allows Lexus to target markets that are completely different from that of the LS, for example.

What about the F Sport? It enhances the 2013 Lexus CT 200h's styling. It sports unique front and rear spoilers, a three-spoke steering wheel, sport pedals, and aluminum-alloy 17” F Sport wheels.

The well-designed cabin is spoiled by an archaic infotainment system. I never managed to connect to Bluetooth. This is totally unacceptable in this day and age. There is a satellite radio function, without a display! A complete aberration.

This is in addition to a series of poorly designed controls, in particular the seat control buttons that are straight out of the ‘90s. The heated seats didn't feel particularly heated, or maybe the heat is too subtle for my liking. This is a common caveat throughout the Toyota/Lexus lineup.

The rear seats are snug, but comfortable, just don't expect enough trunk volume for a week's vacation for four.

The rear seats are snug, but comfortable. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the 2013 Lexus CT 200h F Sport
The choice of hybrids keeps growing, but the selection of compact luxury hybrids is quite limited.

The Acura ILX Hybrid and Volkswagen Jetta Turbo Hybrid are among the main choices. Both the Jetta and Golf TDI are low-fuel consumption choices that you may also consider exploring.

Here is the schedule of the maiden Chevrolet Silverado 250, the only Canadian round of the 2013 NASCAR Camping World truck series.

The race will be held this weekend on Canadian Tire Motorsport Park near Bowmanville, Ontario, and previously better known as Mosport.

Photo: Getty Images for NASCAR

Chevrolet Silverado 250 schedule

Friday, August 30th, 2013
7:00 am - 9:00 pm Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Registration
11:30 am - 1:30 pm NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Practice
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Lunch
2:30 pm - 6:00 pm NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Practice

Saturday, August 31st, 2013
7:00 am - 4:00 pm Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Registration
8:45 am - 9:15 am Canadian Touring Car Championship Qualifying
9:30 am - 10:30 am NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Practice
10:40 am - 11:50 am NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Practice
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Final Practice
1:10 pm - 2:00 pm NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Final Practice
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Lunch
3:00 pm - 3:30 pm Canadian Touring Car Championship Race #1
4:00 pm - 4:20 pm NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Qualifying - Group #1
4:30 pm - 4:50 pm NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Qualifying - Group #2
5:05 pm NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Qualifying

Sunday, September 1st, 2013
7:00 am - 3:00 pm Canadian Tire Motorsport Park Registration
9:45 am - 10:15 am Canadian Touring Car Championship Qualifying
10:30 am NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Driver Introductions
11:00 am - 12:45 pm Pinty's presents the Clarington 200 (NASCAR Canadian Tire Series) 200 km
12:45 pm - 1:30 pm Lunch
1:30 pm NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Driver Introductions
2:00 pm Chevrolet Silverado 250 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Race (64 Laps)
4:45 pm - 5:15 pm Canadian Touring Car Championship Race #2

Photo: Getty Images for NASCAR

From GMM

Amid Bernie Ecclestone's claims the race will not take place next year, work on the street circuit in New Jersey is still taking place.

"As far as we are concerned, the race is still on," West New York mayor Felix Roque is quoted by nj.com.

He said construction crews are "working diligently on Boulevard East, getting curbs and sidewalks done ... they are out there today".

Earlier, F1 chief executive Ecclestone said the 2014 race is no longer "on the cards" due to organisers' financial problems.

But a race spokesman hit back by insisting preparations are on track, and Ecclestone later answered "no, no" when asked if he had ruled out adding New Jersey to next year's calendar.

An unnamed team boss told Speed Week Ecclestone, 82, might simply be up to his old games, insisting "it's not the first time we've heard words like these".

"I would not write off the race in New Jersey," he added.

Sebastian Vettel, in 2012, on the future New Jersey track, in front of the Manhattan buildings. (Photo: Red Bull Racing)

Another local mayor, Weehawken's Richard Turner, said he also doubted the reports that say the race is definitely off.

"No one from F1 down to (promoter) Mr (Leo) Hindery has said the race was off," said Turner. "The way they negotiate details seems to be in the public."

Richard Turner said he was waiting for September 24, when the first 2014 calendar will be officially published by the FIA.

"We'll see then if we are on the schedule," he added.

Meanwhile, the state government has announced a smaller than usual loss - $50 million - for this year's Australian grand prix.

But neither side of politics - the government or the opposition - is promising to renew Melbourne's race contract beyond 2015.

"Generally the driver of all government activity on this will be we will only sign a new contract if it represents good value for money," minister Louise Asher told reporters on Wednesday.

August 28th, 1937, is the official date of the birth of the Toyota Motor Corporation, although the family company's origins go back to 1897, when Sakichi Toyoda started building his first mechanical knitting looms. These machines immediately gained worldwide notoriety.

Sakichi's son, Kiichiro Toyoda, obtained his father's permission to launch an automotive subsidiary in 1933. The Toyoda A1 was built in 1935, bearing striking similarities to the American products of the period. The successful G1 truck prototype, built that same year, was immediately put into mass production.

Toyota switched over to the Toyota name in 1936. Why? In Japanese Toyoda is comprised of 10 characters, while Toyota is only made up of 8, which happens to be a lucky number for the Japanese. The company's first logo was thus born. A year later, Kiichiro Toyoda launches the Toyota Motor Corporation.

The toll of WWII almost sank the company, but they managed to survive over the next few decades to become a formidable player in the automotive industry, as they have grown into the world's largest automotive manufacturer. Production, which was almost completely halted after the 2011 tsunami that hit Northeast Japan, topped the 9.75 million mark in 2012 (Toyota, Lexus, Hino, Daihatsu included).

In its latest web edition, UK's Black Book analyses Greenpeace protests that marred the Grand Prix of Belgium at Spa-Francorchamps, an event fully sponsored by oil giant Shell.

According to the well informed sports business magazine, Shell is one of the major spenders in Formula One, paying around US$30 million per year to sponsor Ferrari, with whom it has a contract up until the end of 2015 and, since 2011, investing a multi-million dollar sum with Formula One itself to title sponsor the Belgian Grand Prix.

The oil company can't have been too impressed with the security arrangements at the picturesque Belgian road course on Sunday, which allowed Greenpeace to infiltrate the grandstand and Shell-branded podium to protest at the company's arctic drilling activities.

'Arctic Oil? Shell No!' read a banner unfurled on the grandstand after Greenpeace micro gliders landed on the roof in the hour before the race.

More banners, controlled remotely, were revealed on the podium as the national anthems rang out, reportedly having been placed there up to two weeks earlier. They were swiftly removed by Formula One's podium manager, Alex Molina out of sight of the world feed television broadcast, which turned a blind eye. Hugh Mitchell, Shell International's chief human resources and corporate officer, presented the trophy to the winning constructor as planned.

“I can certainly respect the technology, sportsmanship and innovation that are at the heart of the Formula One Grand Prix,” wrote Kumi Naidoo, the executive director of Greenpeace in a blog post.

“But what I can't respect is what the sponsor of the event, Shell, is doing to the Arctic.”

Photo: WRi2

An accompanying video of the podium ceremony, shot from the grandstand and later posted by Greenpeace, added: ‘Banner material: €50. Four car radio antennas: €88. Embarrassing Shell on its biggest PR day of the year? Priceless.

What next for Spa?
There will be arguments over the success or failure the protest, given the lack of TV impact, but this was the most serious security breach at a Grand Prix since Neil Horan, dressed as a priest, ran along the track at the 2003 British Grand Prix.

Circuit officials from Spa-Francorchamps should, at the very least, expect a call from world motorsport's governing body, the FIA, an organisation which once banned Jerez from staging races following political interference in the podium ceremony in 1997.

Black Book mentions that the Belgian F1 race has always walked a financial tightrope, despite being one of the most popular races amongst fans. With more venues than races seemingly available in the next couple of years - Russia on the horizon, a New Jersey race still not dead, Austria returning next year and Mexico City emerging over the weekend as a potential race host in 2014 or 2015 - it was the worst possible time to have failed to meet the sport's high venue standards.

Pros and Cons
Pros
It's always better when there are more -- passengers, that is. This is especially true onboard an Aston Martin. The immediately recognizable four-seat Rapide is the successor to the Lagonda that was first introduced in the mid-‘70s.

The operative word is exclusivity. With no more than 2,000 built in one year, and the possibility that these number will drop well below 1,000 units, the odds of crossing another Rapide on your daily commute is very remote. As well, its styling will never go out of style and no one will ever question your choice.

Cons
The Brits, like the Italians, are known for creating beautiful “things” but not reliable “things” that don't always do what they're supposed to, like start. For that, consider a German like a Porsche.


Price
Is that of the average Canadian house. The 2013 Aston Martin Rapide and Rapide S are truly fully customizable cars.

Fuel Economy
The tank holds 90.5 litres of fuel. Fuel consumption is rated a 21.4L city/10.1L highway per 100 km.

Improvements and changes
In total, eight body panels were redesigned, including the bonnet. The new engine sits 19 mm lower in the chassis, and as such, required some surrounding physical adjustments. Another new feature is the rear integrated spoiler which flips up and smooths exterior airflow.

Exterior styling
The 2013 Aston Martin Rapide hit showroom floors as a 2010 car, and for the 2013 model year has received a tasteful facelift that, in part, was necessary because of the arrival of the all-new AM11 V12 engine.
Regardless of the angle, the Rapide strikes a chord with those who love and appreciate beautiful things.

Inside
The cabin is slathered in the finest Bridge of Weir hides, real glass and carbon fiber. It is wonderful, well-crafted, and assembled with precision.

Powertrain
The Aston Martin Rapide S is driven by a powerful 6.0L V12. This all-new AM11 engine provides this Aston Martin with 550 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque. The only available transmission is a rear mid-mounted “Touchtronic 2” 6-speed automatic transaxle with a limited slip differential.

This all-alloy quad overhead cam, 48-valve, front mid-mounted engine uses CNC-machined combustion chambers and hollow camshafts; techie bits lifted directly from their GT race car program. Its power is sufficient to catapult the near 2,000 kg (4,400 lb) car to 100 km/h in as little as 4.9 seconds.

Safety
All manners of airbags and electronic nannies are standard on the 2013 Aston Martin Rapide.

Comparables
Porsche Panamera, Bentley Continental Flying Spur, Audi S8, Jaguar XJ, Maserati Quattroporte

Photo: Aston Martin

Pros and Cons
Pros
The 2013 Maserati Quattroporte is fresh off a complete makeover that has brought the car's styling into the modern age. The trident that adorns the car's impressive grille is a sign of sophistication and excellent taste. This Italian luxury flagship is a symbol of worldly elegance and is now available with AWD, a sign that it is now ripe for the world market at large.

Cons
Reliability issues are a given with these high-priced exotic Italian cars.


Price
Base price for the 2013 Maserati Quattroporte starts in the vicinity of $130,000.

Exterior styling
The new longer Maserati Quattroporte is an evolved and modernized car over the previous model. From the famous, recognizable and now larger front grille, the car's muscular curves, sitting atop standard 19” wheels, now promise power to go along with Italian elegance.

The distinctive headlights are literally part of the front fenders that are also adorned by the famous three air vents located between the front door and wheel.

The rear end features LED taillights that are immediately noticeable as are the brushed steel trapezoidal tailpipes. The integrated rear spoiler adds a touch of aerodynamics to what is decidedly a beautiful car.

Inside
The cabin is slathered in the finest leathers. The lounge atmosphere that reigns inside the car is amplified by extreme luxury and soft surfaces. The interior is highly customizable through a number of different colour combinations.

As an exotic, the Quattroporte features every desirable option and piece of technology. The car's ergonomics are graceful and functional. The dashboard is highlighted by the Maserati Touch Control 8.4” display. The seats are supremely comfortable and rearseat legroom is limo-like.

Cargo capacity
The 2013 Maserati Quattroporte boot has a useable volume of 530 litres.

Powertrain
The Maserati Quattroporte S is powered by a twin-turbo 3.0L V6. It produces 410hp and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque. It reaches 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. The S Q4, with AWD, shaves 0.2 seconds off that mark.

The Maserati Quattroporte GTS is powered by a twin-turbo 3.8L V8. This engine provides the car with 530hp and 524 lb-ft (710 Nm) of torque in overboost. The tonne is reached in 4.7 seconds.

Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Safety
All manners of airbags and electronic nannies are standard on the 2013 Maserati Quattroporte.

Comparables
Porsche Panamera, Audi A8, Jaguar XJ, Aston Martin Rapide

2013 Maserati Quattroporte (photo: Maserati)

From wrc.com

Here's what Citroen's Dani Sordo had to say about taking the first World Rally Championship victory of his career.

Q: Dani, congratulations! How does it feel to finally get the result you have dreamed of for so long?
Dani Sordo: “I am felling really well after my first win. We didn't start well, but things improved after we changed the set-up. In bad conditions we had to fight a little bit more and in the end we finally won.”

Q: A fantastic battle, especially today when you started in the lead by 0.8 seconds. Were you nervous this morning?
DS: “No, it was quite okay. In the first stage, we were a little bit faster than Thierry Neuville. Then we had to wait for one hour doing nothing before the next stage. That was a little bit long, to be honest. In the last stage, it was interesting, but it was nice.”

Photo: Citroën Racing

Q: You have spent the majority of your career with the Citroën team, does it feel good to take the first win with them?
DS: “It was an emotional one, of course. A lot of people were there, close friends and family. Many people were very happy for my win. I knew that the team and Mikko (Hirvonen) were supporting me as well. You feel that people are supporting you, that is always nice.”

Q: What was the feeling when you crossed the finish line and realised you had done enough to win?

DS: “It was a very good feeling. In the middle of the stage, I wasn't nervous, but Thierry (Neuville) was pushing like hell, so it was really close. After we crossed the line, we saw the message in the car that Thierry was driving slowly. Then it was already looking good, but we weren't sure. We had to wait for the confirmation and it was a relief when it finally came.”

Photo: Citroën Racing

Q: Was there any pressure on your shoulders to do well here?
DS: “No, it wasn't a lot of pressure. On tarmac, we were confident we could do well. I was more scared about the set-up, because we didn't do a lot of testing here, but we made some good changes and after that, the car was really good.”

Q: How much will this help you to secure a drive for next year?

DS: “I don't know, but I am really happy with the victory. If it helps me for next year, then it is good, but if not, so be it. Having this victory is just very nice.”

I've just returned from a trip to Monterey, California where I was fortunate enough to drive the brand new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray on some of the best roads I've ever been on -- and I don't mean because the surface was smooth and pretty, I mean because of their challenging aspect and stunning landscape and horizons.

While we didn't get to traverse the Pacific Coast Highway, we did experience some wild mountainous roads with long sweeping turns, tight right-angled corners and endlessly strung together s-curves that had me giddy behind the wheel of the ‘Vette.

Why bring all of this up? Well, the Stringray launch coincided with a very important automotive weekend in Monterey, California. The Pebble Beach Councours d'Elegence and RM Auction were just ramping up while we were there, and the cars lining the streets and driving on them was just ridiculous. From Lamborghini Miuras (yes, there was more than one) to a custom-made convertible Cadillac Escalade (a rather unfortunate creation, actually), the vehicles in Monterey were every car-junky's dream come true.

I always say Montreal is a driver's city; we love our cars and we love to drive. We may be aggressive on the road, but that's because we have no patience for those not as enamoured with their time behind the wheel; and I think Californians may just be the same. With such glorious expanses of road at their disposal, how could they not be?

On one section of our drive itinerary, we were asked to take a highway no-doubt used by countless commuters on a daily basis as part of their daily trek to and from work. Lined with gorgeous, older-than-sin trees, undulating through valleys and with glimpses of the Pacific Ocean appearing every now and then, I was in awe. Why couldn't my commute to work look like that?!

The idea of going for a Sunday cruise at home means finding water and trying to follow it for as long as one can in a car. The idea of a cruise in California could mean any number of things, and for that reason alone I think Cali drivers hold the crown when it comes to a love of cars and everything to do with them.

With companies like Tesla and Singer based in California, Mazda Raceway nestled near Monterey, the Pacific Coast Highway stretching its length and events like Pebble Beach... the automotive associations are endless. California may be known for its wine, plastic surgery and Hollywood, but I think it should also be known for its love affair with the automobile.

And for that reason, I also need to devise a plan that has me living in or near Monterey with a view of the ocean, a vintage Mini in the driveway, and access to Mazda Raceway whenever I want to track-test my press vehicles.

A girl can dream, can't she?

Photo: Miranda Lightstone

From GMM

Mercedes has perhaps the very best driver pairing in formula one.

That is not the claim of a figure like Ross Brawn, Toto Wolff or Niki Lauda, but of the German team's arch championship rival Sebastian Vettel.

The reigning world champion, and runaway 2013 points leader, was asked by Bild to consider this year's field and name the ideal driver duo.

"Hamilton and Rosberg," he told the German newspaper.

"They push as well as harmonise one another very well," added the Red Bull driver.

Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. (Photo: Mercedes AMG F1 Team)

Vettel's comments might be interpreted as just the latest sign that he does not get along well with his own teammate, the departing Mark Webber.

But the 26-year-old insists that "people on the outside" have always had the wrong impression about Red Bull's current lineup.

"Our relationship is completely professional," said Vettel.

As for all the media hype about Webber's successor, the German said the eventual choice won't make much of a difference to him.

"As a fan, perhaps I'm interested. But in the end I will always want to get to the finish before the others -- whether they're in a red or a black or even the same-coloured car," Sebastian Vettel smiled.

A Guinness Record was set at the Sharjah Airport, in the United Arab Emirates, last August 22nd, as a Nissan Patrol pulled an airplane weighing 170.9 tons across a distance of 50 metres. The SUV was completely unmodified for the task. The preceding record consisted of a 155 ton Boeing 747 which was pulled by a Volkswagen Touareg.

The "Nissan Patrol Challenge", which was launched in 2012, asked participants to submit ideas as to how to use the SUV. Participants were eligible to win a trip to Japan. The Nissan Patrol is based on the Infiniti QX and is sold mainly in the Middle-East.

Photo: Nissan

Every Lamborghini enjoys the status of “rolling legend” the moment they launch. As the first cars roll off the assembly line, critics and enthusiasts cannot wait to see the latest from Sant'Agata.

The now-replaced Murciélago's output escalated from 580 horsepower to 670. For the Aventador, Lamborghini wasted no time nor expenses in the power department as its 6.5L V12 produces no less than 700 horsepower and 507 lb-ft of torque.


Managing all that pavement-rippling muscle is the ISR gearbox or Independent Shifting Rod. The 7-speed tranny features rods operated by hydraulic actuators, which accomplish virtually parallel gear changes. According to Lamborghini, the overlapping allows shifts to occur 50% more quickly than in a double-clutch sequential.

In addition, the driver can choose between three operating modes: comfort-oriented Strada, dynamic Sport and track-calibrated Corsa, the latter including a launch mode for nosebleed blastoffs. You can use the wheel-mounted paddle shifters or leave the ISR to swap its own gears.

Speaking of blastoffs, the all-wheel drive Aventador crushes the 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds. The car also has a top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).

The Aventador rides on a slightly longer wheelbase than the Murciélago and is barely longer, but loses an inch in width, while height is unchanged. Front and rear tires are sized at 255/35ZR19 and 335/30ZR20, respectively.

The Lambo flagship also benefits from carbon-ceramic brakes, dual front, side and knee airbags, traction and electronic stability control, bi-xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a rearview camera, front and rear park sensors as well as electronically controlled rear spoiler and side air intakes.

Inside, you'll find a leather-trimmed cockpit with navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port with iPod integration, an onboard computer, power and heated seats with four upholstery options including bicolour leather or Alcantara, climate control, and keyless entry and start. The steering wheel can be wrapped in suede or perforated leather, your choice.

Photo: Lamborghini

The Aventador sports a sleek, wedge-shaped body that takes styling cues from the very rare and expensive Reventón, including the extrusive air intake ducts beneath the headlights and symmetrical creases all around as well as over the roofline. The engine is neatly exposed under a transparent hood, while a variety of paint colours and finishes (solid, metallic, pearl effect, and matte) are available. The scissor doors remain as a throwback to the Countach.

An even sleeker Roadster version is also available. The weight penalty for the Roadster over the regular fixed roof Aventador is only 50 kg or 110 lbs. The roof panels -- two of them -- each weighing 6 kg are easily stowed under the front bonnet. Acceleration times are only mildly affected, however, the top speed remains unaffected.

Pricing of the Lamborghini Aventador starts at $400,000.

Quebec race car driver, Marc-Antoine Camirand will drive the No. 88 Chevrolet in this weekend's Clarington 200 held at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.

Round 10 of this year's NASCAR Canadian Tire series will be held on the 2.459-mile difficult road course.

Camirand, a veteran road racer impressed the onlookers when he qualified third on the grid for the Juliawine.com 100 at the recent Grand Prix of Trois-Rivieres, driving White Motorsport's No. 88 Chevrolet.

Brandon White was satisfied with the performance of Camirand and started talks to run him in other races.

Camirand will be sponsored by two companies of the region of Trois-Rivieres: Elitech Sport Evasion and Stereo Plus.

2014 Dodge Dart

A competitive player in the compact-sedan segment.

New For 2014

Minor updates abound for the 2014 Dodge Dart, even though the compact sedan was all-new for 2013. The range-topping Dart GT model debuted in late 2013 with a new 2.4-liter I-4 engine and a traditional six-speed automatic; the 1.4-liter turbo feels just as powerful (despite a 24-hp deficiency), but the automatic makes the driving experience much more enjoyable compared with the clunky dual-clutch automatic transmission that's offered with the turbo. The 2.4-liter is also now standard on all 2014 Dart models except for the base Dart SE and the fuel-sipping Dart Aero. The front seats have also been resculpted for better comfort, and the dashboard material has a new texture that's less reflective.

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2014 Dodge Durango

Despite the major cosmetic overhaul for 2014, much of the Durango stays the same.

New For 2014

Like the Jeep Grand Cherokee with which the Durango shares its platform, mechanicals, and technology, the three-row Dodge received a comprehensive update for 2014. Most noticeable are the revised front and rear fascias, which now use copious amounts of LEDs, including hockey-stick-shaped front running lights and Dodge's "racetrack" taillights. Inside, the Durango has a new gauge cluster with a seven-inch TFT screen and a cleaner center stack with larger buttons and an optional 8.4-inch touchscreen (a five-inch touchscreen is standard). Under the skin, the Durango loses its antiquated five-speed automatic in exchange for a new eight-speed unit found elsewhere in Chrysler's lineups; the new transmission is controlled through a rotary knob on the center console, like that found in the 2013–2014 Ram 1500. There is also a new trim level -- Durango Limited -- which includes standard heated leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and the larger touchscreen.

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2014 Dodge Dart

A competitive player in the compact-sedan segment.

New For 2014

Minor updates abound for the 2014 Dodge Dart, even though the compact sedan was all-new for 2013. The range-topping Dart GT model debuted in late 2013 with a new 2.4-liter I-4 engine and a traditional six-speed automatic; the 1.4-liter turbo feels just as powerful (despite a 24-hp deficiency), but the automatic makes the driving experience much more enjoyable compared with the clunky dual-clutch automatic transmission that's offered with the turbo. The 2.4-liter is also now standard on all 2014 Dart models except for the base Dart SE and the fuel-sipping Dart Aero. The front seats have also been resculpted for better comfort, and the dashboard material has a new texture that's less reflective.

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2014 Lotus Evora

Launched in the 2010 model year, the Evora carries on for 2014 with a 3.5-liter twin-cam V-6 rated 276 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

New For 2014

Lotus made no mechanical changes to the Evora for '14. There are five new colors, and the '13's mishmash of trim levels has been rationalized. Trim levels are now (1) the standard car, with all-black cloth and leather; (2) Premium, with full leather in a single, monotone color; (3) Premium Sport, with four interior colors available; and (4) Premium Suedetex, with suedelike accents. Lotus also plans to make its track-only Elise Cup model available in the U.S., although details won't be available until late in the year, so expect shipments to begin in early 2014.

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