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From Clarke Motorsports Communications/First Draft Media

It was a typical springtime Saturday night - the 18th of May to be precise - when Canada's Toughest Third of a Mile Oval waved the first green flag that would kick-off a new season of action.  From the initial turn of the opening lap, it has been a memorable campaign at Peterborough Speedway.

Long hours and hard work during the off-season by owner/promoter J.P. Josiasse and his team brought new corporate marketing partners and division sponsors into the fold and helped create a renewed sense of enthusiasm at the tight bullring on Mount Pleasant Road, west of the Liftlock City.

Heading into the final point paying event of the year - Saturday, August 24th - a number of positions are still up for grabs in the Battlefield Equipment Rental Four Fun, Peterborough Hyundai Mini Stock, Moi Parry Spring Service Renegade Truck, Paul Davis Systems Thunder Car and Vanguard Self Storage Late Model divisions.

One of the leading contenders for a 2013 championship is Orono, Ontario's Craig Graham.

Mentoring his teenaged son Brandt during the 2012 season at Kawartha Speedway rekindled the desire to compete for the veteran campaigner.  A pair of early season main event victories in the Late Model division and some strong runs throughout the year has the driver of the No. 98 P.J. Larkin Salvage/ Hot Rod Swag/ Motorhead Canada/ SJM Improvements/ L.A. Signs Chevrolet looking to take home the honours at the season finale.

The OSCAAR Outlaw Super Late Models - for a 50 lap main event - will also be on hand to close out this year's schedule.

Pit gates will open at 2pm for the Saturday, August 24th show, with the spectator grandstands unlocked at 4pm.  The night's first qualifying heat takes the green flag at 6pm. 

Fans can follow Peterborough Speedway on Facebook or Twitter and find the full schedule details and latest track news at www.peterboroughspeedway.com.

Remember the road course at the Indianapolis Speedway that used to host the Formula One circus? Well the Indycar Series is planning to use it once again to hold a race early in May.

According to reports, an IndyCar road race at IMS is looking more and more likely and the circuit use by Grand-Am and MotoGP could be tested in September by some IndyCar squads.

Indianapolis officials confirmed that a feasibility test will be held either Sept. 4 or Sept. 6 with an eye toward staging a race to kick off Indianapolis 500 festivities next May.

Grand-Am racing at IMS (Photo: Grand-Am.com)

A still undecided number of Indycar teams will be on hand to test both of the IMS configurations, clockwise (used by F1 and Grand-Am) and counter-clockwise directions (used by MotoGP). 

Either way, changes to the infield portion of the track are expected to make the circuit faster and more exciting.

The early-May event could stage a double-feature competition involving both a United SportsCar Racing and IndyCar events.  

From GMM

Dr Helmut Marko backtracked on Tuesday, revealing Red Bull will in fact not finalise its 2014 driver lineup this weekend in Belgium.

Earlier, amid reports the world champion team has decided to promote Daniel Ricciardo to replace the Le Mans-bound Mark Webber, Marko told Germany's Sport Bild that "we will make an announcement at Spa".

But on Tuesday, the Austrian was quoted by SID news agency: "We will express ourselves when the time comes, and that will definitely not be at Spa."

When will we know who is replacing Mark Webber? (Photo: Red Bull Racing)

24 hours ago, Kimi Raikkonen's manager Steve Robertson said talks with Red Bull had ended.  Reports suggested the 2007 world champion is now more likely to return to Ferrari in 2014.

Marko did not want to comment.

"What we will do will be the best for the team, in the medium term," said team owner Dietrich Mateschitz's right-hand man.

From GMM

Organisers of the Singapore Formula 1 grand prix will finally remove the controversial 'Singapore sling' chicane.

The slow and unusual chicane, featuring high and harsh kerbs for the left-right-left flick, has been consistently criticised by drivers and teams since the sport arrived at the now highly-popular night race venue in 2008.

The infamous "sling" chicane (Photo: WRi2)

Speed Week correspondent Mathias Brunner reports this week that Turn 10 of the Marina Bay street circuit will now be a simple left-hand corner.

The report also said the layout at key sections including turns 1-2, 5-8 and along the esplanade will be resurfaced in order to make the track less bumpy.

This year's Singapore grand prix will be held on 22 September.

Top of the heap
Certain brands transcend all others based solely on their history, one rife with exploits that must be sustained in the present via newer and greater ones. If a brand is well-played, like Range Rover, it will grow into something more.

The Range Rover went from an off-road “machine” to a status symbol when the second generation arrived in 1994. By 2002, the Big Rover became a bonafide über luxo SUV, essentially the ultimate expression of panache on four tall wheels.

The new ">2013 Range Rover takes it one step farther with a more refined shape, all the content from previous generations and more, as well as power -- but now with less weight to lug around. This Range Rover Supercharged is the poster boy for the better things in life and the poshest way to cover any kind of terrain quickly -- the perfect car for a Mafia Boss.


What is a Range Rover?
The 2013 Range Rover is the range-topping product from the firm that sells some of the finest and most capable SUVs in the world: Land Rover.

Introduced in 1970, the Range Rover set the standard by which all other SUVs (regular or luxury) are measured. The bar has always been very high where even some of the big-budget carmakers are unable to match it on road or off.

The Range Rover is now in its fourth generation and shares its namesake with the Sport (new model arrives shortly) and the compact Evoque.

The 2013 Range Rover is the range-topping product from the firm that sells some of the finest and most capable SUVs in the world: Land Rover. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Technicalities
The new 2013 Range Rover gets its Supercharged moniker from its twin vortex force-fed 5.0L V8. The result is a ground-shaking 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque.

The Big Rover comes with Range Rover's highly sophisticated Terrain Response 2 Auto system that works the full-time intelligent 4WD. The entire system features a 50/50 torque split and a two-speed transfer box.

An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard and may be controlled via wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The base 2013 Range Rover Supercharged retails for $114,750. The top line Autobiography goes for $144,000.

The new 2013 Range Rover gets its Supercharged moniker from its twin vortex force-fed 5.0L V8. The result is a ground-shaking 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Miranda Lightstone)

Driving the Range Rover
As anyone would expect, being at the helm of a Range Rover -- the Range Rover -- is quite an event. After pressing the start button, the Drive Select Rotary Shifter rises from the centre console, is turned to D, and the earth becomes a playground.

The electronic air suspension ascends from its Access height to reach its normal setting and immediately the Big Rover demonstrates uncanny poise. The ride comfort is supreme, the feeling of invincibility, intoxicating. From the command position, the driver feels in control and safe. Despite the 21” wheels, the 2013 Range Rover hovers over all civilized terrains.

Even with its massive power and ability to reach 100km/h in 5.3 seconds, the suspension and drivetrain are never overwhelmed. Progress and response are mind-numbing as the surrounding landscape turns to a blur. The 2,330 kg (5,137 lbs) girth all but disappears from the conscious mind as the transmission powers seamlessly through its gears.

If I may fault the electric power steering for its constant over-assistance, I cannot say the same for its massive vented disc brakes. Their force matches that of the engine.

The 2013 Range Rover is not a small vehicle and therefore its manoeuvrability is limited. The steering radius of 12.3 meters is large, but decent for its size. The available Park Assist and Vision Assist packages do help.

With a near even mix of city and highway driving, I averaged 18.5L/100 km.

After pressing the start button, the Drive Select Rotary Shifter rises from the centre console, is turned to D, and the earth becomes a playground. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and out of the Range Rover
As I've stated, the 2013 Range Rover is an event and it all begins the moment we take a look at it. Standing regally on its gorgeous wheels, draped in Fuji White, the Big Rover makes a stately statement while mum's the word.

The new more fluidic bodylines remove some of the Range Rover's previous rugged angles, but the final result is stunning.

The drama further increases as we climb aboard. The materials, fit, and grand black lacquer finish and contrasting interior colours of the tester make the cabin a hard place to leave.

The large front seats, fully adjustable with massaging function, are supremely cosseting. The rear bench is also power-operated and comfortable. These, and ventilated seats all round, are part of the Front & Rear Seat Climate Comfort pack.

The standard level of kit in the 2013 Range Rover is huge; however, selecting the optional 825-Watt Meridian Premium sound system makes the experience that much better.

The rear bench is power-operated and comfortable. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the Range Rover
As the Godfather of the luxury SUV, the 2013 Range Rover Supercharged can take them all on. On any given day, not only the day of the owner's daughter's wedding, it can take on the likes of the Mercedes GL- and G-Class, the Porsche Cayenne, and practically laughs in the face of the Cadillac Escalade.

The Range Rover is a status symbol and looks up to no other.

From GMM

Kimi Raikkonen's manager is not ruling out a return to Ferrari for the 2007 world champion.

On Monday, Steve Robertson admitted talks with Red Bull about Raikkonen replacing the Le Mans-bound Mark Webber had been "unsuccessful".

But the 33-year-old Finn, who currently drives for Lotus, has also been linked with a return to Ferrari, despite the Italian team having replaced him with Fernando Alonso with a year to run on his contract at the end of 2009.

Asked if Ferrari is an option, manager Robertson told the BBC: "Until they confirm their seats, my job is to speak to all the teams and see what's available."

Robertson also told Brazil's O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper on Monday that Raikkonen has more than one alternative to Lotus for 2014.

"I'm not worried," he said, "because we have other options -- plural."

Kimi Raikkonen, Lotus E21 (Photo: WRi2)

Brazilian correspondent Livio Oricchio said Red Bull's Christian Horner pushed hard to sign Raikkonen, but Dr Helmut Marko ultimately got his way.

Marko reportedly convinced team owner Dietrich Mateschitz that Red Bull should take young Australian Daniel Ricciardo, because it better balances the lineup alongside the likely reigning quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel.

Ricciardo's signing also proves the worth of the Red Bull junior team Toro Rosso, and gives the next rising youngster, Antonio Felix da Costa, his 2014 debut.

Meanwhile, a post on Twitter by Ferrari's Fernando Alonso might be seen as a return of fire, after Luca di Montezemolo publicly criticised the Spaniard's outbursts in the wake of the recent Hungarian grand prix.

Reverting to the wisdom of the Samurai, Alonso said: "The warrior that uses the sword when insulted cannot be considered brave.

"Brave man does not flinch, because he has higher goals."

From GMM

Deputy boss Claire Williams insists she is "happy" with the Oxfordshire based team's budget for 2014.

Her comments come amid reports many teams on the grid, like Sauber and even the title-charging Lotus, are struggling to survive.

"Our finances are open for everyone to see," Williams, referring to the Grove team's listing on the Frankfurt stock exchange, is quoted by Brazil's Totalrace.

"We have a healthy budget and have done a good job on the business side to ensure that we are in as competitive a situation as possible for next year," she insisted.

Photo: Williams F1 Team

The daughter of team founder and boss Sir Frank Williams, however, said the fact Williams is in a healthy situation does not mean F1 should not do more to level the playing field.

"Williams has always embraced controls in spending," said Williams, "since they began to be implemented in 2009.

"It is very important for the sport.

"We are an independent team and so we can't afford to see costs increase when there is already such discrepancy in terms of (team) budgets.

"We must ensure that we can all compete more equally," she added.

2014 Volkswagen Passat

We were not predisposed to like the current-generation Passat when it came out for the 2012 model year.

New For 2014

The biggest news for the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is the demise of the 2.5-liter I-5 and a new 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder in its place. There is almost no change in power (it makes the same 170 hp and ekes out 7 more lb-ft of torque, to 184 lb-ft), and there is also now electrically assisted power steering. VW's OnStar-like Car-Net connectivity system is now available from the Wolfsburg Edition (which continues on from 2013 with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking brake, and shift knob) and up, as is the interface for iPods and the like. Certain Passat SE models get keyless access with push-button starting, new "Bristol" eighteen-inch wheels, and two-tone seats. All models except the S trims also receive a backup camera.

2014 Volkswagen Passat | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us

2014 Volkswagen Passat

We were not predisposed to like the current-generation Passat when it came out for the 2012 model year.

New For 2014

The biggest news for the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is the demise of the 2.5-liter I-5 and a new 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder in its place. There is almost no change in power (it makes the same 170 hp and ekes out 7 more lb-ft of torque, to 184 lb-ft), and there is also now electrically assisted power steering. VW's OnStar-like Car-Net connectivity system is now available from the Wolfsburg Edition (which continues on from 2013 with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking brake, and shift knob) and up, as is the interface for iPods and the like. Certain Passat SE models get keyless access with push-button starting, new "Bristol" eighteen-inch wheels, and two-tone seats. All models except the S trims also receive a backup camera.

2014 Volkswagen Passat | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us

2014 Volkswagen Passat

We were not predisposed to like the current-generation Passat when it came out for the 2012 model year.

New For 2014

The biggest news for the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is the demise of the 2.5-liter I-5 and a new 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder in its place. There is almost no change in power (it makes the same 170 hp and ekes out 7 more lb-ft of torque, to 184 lb-ft), and there is also now electrically assisted power steering. VW's OnStar-like Car-Net connectivity system is now available from the Wolfsburg Edition (which continues on from 2013 with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking brake, and shift knob) and up, as is the interface for iPods and the like. Certain Passat SE models get keyless access with push-button starting, new "Bristol" eighteen-inch wheels, and two-tone seats. All models except the S trims also receive a backup camera.

2014 Volkswagen Passat | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us

2014 Volkswagen Passat

We were not predisposed to like the current-generation Passat when it came out for the 2012 model year.

New For 2014

The biggest news for the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is the demise of the 2.5-liter I-5 and a new 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder in its place. There is almost no change in power (it makes the same 170 hp and ekes out 7 more lb-ft of torque, to 184 lb-ft), and there is also now electrically assisted power steering. VW's OnStar-like Car-Net connectivity system is now available from the Wolfsburg Edition (which continues on from 2013 with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking brake, and shift knob) and up, as is the interface for iPods and the like. Certain Passat SE models get keyless access with push-button starting, new "Bristol" eighteen-inch wheels, and two-tone seats. All models except the S trims also receive a backup camera.

2014 Volkswagen Passat | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us

2014 Volkswagen Passat

We were not predisposed to like the current-generation Passat when it came out for the 2012 model year.

New For 2014

The biggest news for the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is the demise of the 2.5-liter I-5 and a new 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder in its place. There is almost no change in power (it makes the same 170 hp and ekes out 7 more lb-ft of torque, to 184 lb-ft), and there is also now electrically assisted power steering. VW's OnStar-like Car-Net connectivity system is now available from the Wolfsburg Edition (which continues on from 2013 with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking brake, and shift knob) and up, as is the interface for iPods and the like. Certain Passat SE models get keyless access with push-button starting, new "Bristol" eighteen-inch wheels, and two-tone seats. All models except the S trims also receive a backup camera.

2014 Volkswagen Passat | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us

2014 Volkswagen Passat

We were not predisposed to like the current-generation Passat when it came out for the 2012 model year.

New For 2014

The biggest news for the 2014 Volkswagen Passat is the demise of the 2.5-liter I-5 and a new 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder in its place. There is almost no change in power (it makes the same 170 hp and ekes out 7 more lb-ft of torque, to 184 lb-ft), and there is also now electrically assisted power steering. VW's OnStar-like Car-Net connectivity system is now available from the Wolfsburg Edition (which continues on from 2013 with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking brake, and shift knob) and up, as is the interface for iPods and the like. Certain Passat SE models get keyless access with push-button starting, new "Bristol" eighteen-inch wheels, and two-tone seats. All models except the S trims also receive a backup camera.

2014 Volkswagen Passat | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us

Porsche was the first automaker to sell all their models in the United States with standard anti-lock brakes and driver- and passenger-side airbags.

Porsche was the first automaker to sell all their models in the United States with standard anti-lock brakes and driver- and passenger-side airbags.

Reynolds and Reynolds has acquired IMN Inc. to expand the branded newsletters that Reynolds' dealer customers use to stay in touch with car buyers and shoppers.Terms of the deal were undisclosed.

GM named Delphi executive Steve Kiefer head of global powertrain operations -- a post that has been vacant for more than two years. He will report to Mary Barra, GM's executive vice president of global product development.

Mitsubishi has just announced pricing for its 2014 Mirage, not to be confused with the

Mitsubishi has just announced pricing for its 2014 Mirage, not to be confused with the

Video game creator Codemasters' newest pair of racing simulators, and#8220;