Auto News 5

Porsche unveiled its Macan, the brand's first compact SUV. The Macan is expected to become the automaker's top-selling model and help boost annual sales to 200,000 units by 2018.

Jaguar released pictures and details of its F-Type coupe. The range-topping R version will get a 5.0-liter supercharged V-8 engine that makes 550 hp.

From Team Stange press release

Team Stange announced Wednesday the signing of Canadian native Maryeve Dufault as their driver for the 2014 ARCA Racing Series season.

Dufault is scheduled to pilot the No. 46 HotTVBrands.com Ford Fusion in all of the scheduled ARCA Racing Series presented by Menards events at tracks nationwide.

Maryeve Dufault, Team Stange (Photo: Team Stange)

“This is a great opportunity for me and a great team that has been formed for 2014 ARCA season,” explained Dufault.

“I am very appreciative of the people that John (Stange) is bringing together for the No. 46 HotTVbrands.com car. There are some amazing guys that are running this program who bring a lot of knowledge and success to the table. I'm looking forward to a great season with Team Stange.”

Team Stange, which was formed in 2004 by John Stange and his wife Ashely, is preparing for its' first season in ARCA racing.

Stange purchased the nine-time ARCA championship winning team and equipment of Larry Clement Racing at the end of the 2013 season and started making plans to field his team for 2014.

“2014 is going to be a great year for Team Stange Racing,” said John Stange.

“I have been involved in racing in one way or another my entire life and it is so exciting when you have those times when things come together like they have for Team Stange. We're building a strong team and will give Maryeve competitive equipment and hopefully that combination will put the No. 46 at the front of the field.”

In the integral role of crew chief/consultant for the No. 46, Team Stange has tapped veteran Larry Moore of Palatka, Florida.

Moore is one of the most successful short-track drivers in history with more than 500 race wins and experience at 356 different tracks. When he hung up his helmet as a racer, he began building a successful reputation as a crew chief/consultant for various ARCA, NASCAR Nationwide Series, CRA and dirt late model teams. Moore has more than 35 victories as a crew chief and is looking forward to adding to that number in 2014 with Maryeve and Team Stange.

Compact cars are big business in the Canadian marketplace. Virtually every mainstream automaker offers a used compact model for shoppers to consider. Used compacts are big business in the used car marketplace, too. The promise of fuel-efficient operation, easy-to-drive dynamics, and relatively low asking prices are all to thank.

If you're considering an affordable, fuel-efficient used compact as your next ride, be sure to check out our list of the draws and common issues with some of the used-car scene's most popular compact products.

Remember: If you're uncertain of the condition of the model you're considering, your favourite mechanic will be glad to help.

Further, remember that the little 4-cylinder engines in most of the models listed below have a timing belt that requires replacement at set intervals. As failure of this belt can result in catastrophic engine damage, be sure to determine where the timing belt sits within its life cycle on the model you're considering.

2006 to 2011 Honda Civic

2009 Honda Civic (Photo: Matthieu Lambert)

The Draw: Honda's Civic has long been the Canadian market's elemental compact car. Look for sedan and coupe body styles, a long list of standard safety gear, and the promise of reliable long-term performance and value that have defined the model for decades. Owners rave about build quality, gas mileage, trouble-free operation, and overall comfort and refinement. All models are 4-cylinder, front-wheel drive, making the shopping process easy.

What to Check: Pay close attention to the suspension on this generation of Civic. Listen for any unwelcomed sounds as you travel over bumps at various speeds and angles. Popping or clunking typically indicates a worn-out suspension component. Though rare, there have been a few reports of blown head gaskets. Engine oil in the coolant supply, or vice versa, are good indicators of a bad head gasket. Shoppers are advised to check the condition and levels of all fluids, regardless. Be sure tires and brakes are up to spec, and bring the VIN number to your local Honda dealer to determine if any outstanding recall work needs to be performed.

2009 Honda Civic engine (Photo: Matthieu Lambert)

Continue reading Popular Used Compact Cars

Hybrid vehicle sightings are no longer a rare occurrence. As fuel prices rise, so too do their sales numbers. Be they plug-in or not, hybrid vehicles that offer less-than-100km autonomy in cold-weather conditions seem to be, for now, the ideal solution in reducing both fuel consumption and greenhouse gases.

Hybrid Winter-Readiness: More or Less Expensive?

As far as winter-readiness goes, what are the recommendations for these dual-engined vehicles that combine both internal-combustion and electric motor? We could easily jump to the conclusion that the complexity of their engineering requires specific, expensive maintenance requirements. Nothing could be farther from the truth. How can this be? Let's take a closer look at the hybrid system and find out.

Sharing the Load
Hybrid vehicles shut down combustion engine operation when we come to a complete stop, thus interrupting gas production. Once we release the brake pedal, the electric motor supplies the power for propulsion before eventually handing over operations to the combustion engine, which also handles battery-recharging duties.

Brisk acceleration requires that the engines work in tandem to produce the necessary power. Deceleration and activation of the braking system engages the alternators in the regenerative-braking system, which helps recharge the battery.

Slow-traffic mobility is handled by the electric motor, which propels the vehicle until the moment that the battery requires recharging. The motors will then work in tandem to share the task.

It's important to keep in mind that the combustion engine is inoperative in traffic or at a complete stop. This saves engine wear and tear. Does this logic also apply to other components such as the exhaust system? If the engine operates less frequently, shouldn't the engine oil last longer? The regenerative braking system slows down the vehicle and reduces the strain on brakes. Maybe this will also cut down on brake maintenance and replacement.

As far as hybrid-vehicle transmissions are concerned, most manufacturers opted for what is referred to as CVTs (Continuously Variable Transmission). As there are no gears, there is almost no maintenance.

Savings in the 25% to 40% Range
Many manufacturers recommend maintenance intervals in the 5,000km to 6,000km range. For example, Toyota Prius maintenance intervals are 8,000km apart. These recommendations need to be followed in order to respect warranty obligations. Once the warranty is over, one can easily and safely perform hybrid maintenance at 15,000km intervals or once a year thus pocketing savings in the 25% to 40% range.

Photo: Toyota

What's new?
The true beauty of all Porsche vehicles is that they may appear to change so little from year to year, and yet beneath that sensual body that has essentially stayed the same, a myriad of upgrades and enhancements have been made to make it that much better. The same is true of the 2014 iteration of the Porsche 911 Turbo. What was already a stunning and powerful vehicle on both the road and the track is now even more so thanks to a selection of upgrades and improvements.

First and foremost, the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo has greater engine power and an improved PDK transmission that is also now standard. Used for the very first time in a road car, the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo features the new Porsche Active Aerodynamics and also has new rear-axle steering.

From the outside, the 2014 911 Turbo is wider and they now offer two-tone 20” wheels.


Interior
There are no significant changes to the interior of the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo. Standard Porsche looks and amenities are on offer, and as always a wide arrange of options are available so you can fully customize your 911 Turbo from wood to aluminum to wood or even carbon.

Powertrain
The 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo features a 3.8L boxer twin-turbo engine with variable turbine geometry in the rear. Power is up from the previous model and sits at the 520 horsepower mark now, while torque is at 487 lb-ft. Despite the increase in power, the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo manages to be 16% more fuel efficient, helped by the PDK system that enables an auto start/stop function that activates earlier during coasting. Porsche has the 2014 911 Turbo fuel efficiency number at 9.7L/100km for it and Turbo S.

Porsche has also introduced a new all-wheel drive with electro-hydraulic control. This, in combination with the engine and transmission allows the 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo (equipped with an optional Sport Chrono Package) to sprint from 0-100km/hr in just 3.2 seconds.

In short
The 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo is essentially an improvement upon something that was already pretty darn good. If you didn't want one before (first, you're crazy), you'll surely want one now.

Photo: Porsche

From GMM

Vitaly Petrov has admitted he could switch to the German touring car series DTM in 2014.

The Russian has been looking to return to formula one, having lost his Caterham seat at the end of last season.

"I have contacted Mercedes to find out their situation (regarding DTM)," Petrov told the Russian publication Championat. "I also know the situation in BMW. You could even say that I have the budget for DTM."

The two Canadian drivers fighting in DTM. (Photo: DTM)

Vitaly Petrov, 29, said arranging his return to F1 is more of a "headache", but insists the pinnacle of motor racing remains his top priority.

However, Championat said Petrov is also set to imminently test a rally car.

Asked what his chances are of a return to F1 for 2014, he answered: "Basically the same as before. I am talking and waiting.

"Obviously the Williams seat is gone, but I am still talking with three teams," revealed Petrov.

Summary
The Kia Soul cannot deny its Track'ster concept heritage. The inspired interior and superior ground clearance give it a definite leg up on the competition. However, the base 2014 Soul engine has dropped from 138 hp to 130 compared to the 2013 version. Kia is promising an all-electric version of the Soul for 2014.


Price
Pricing for the 2014 Soul has not been released at time of publishing.

Fuel Economy
Not available at this time.

Latest Improvements

• Stiffer, longer, wider chassis;
• Increased passenger compartment and cargo capacity;
• Enhanced soundproofing;
• Superior handling;
• Slimmer A-pillars (20mm) improve forward visibility.

Exterior Styling
Its unique styling is hard to miss. The slimmer, discreet front grille design and floating body-coloured insert that flows to the rear hatch were borrowed directly from the Track'ster concept. Available options include LED front marker and rear taillights.

Interior Design
The instrument panel and center console of the 2014 Soul benefit from the use of soft-touch materials and tasteful black piano-finish inserts. The Track'ster' spherical design theme is well represented: sculpted circles and inserts surround the inner door-locks, window controls, gear-shift lever and push-button start. The door-mounted speakers match the ‘'floating'' tweeters that are mounted above.

Drivetrain
The base Soul is powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC 4-cylinder all-aluminum direct-injection (GDI) engine that produces 130 hp. A 2.0 liter GDI engine that produces164 hp is also available.

Cargo Capacity
555 liters of cargo room is available behind the rear seatback, while more than 1,511 liters is available behind the front seats.

Comparable Models
Nissan Juke, Nissan cube, Scion xB, Scion xD, Toyota Matrix

Photo: Kia

Latest upgrades
The 2014 Volvo XC60 benefits from a few minor upgrades, including an all-new infotainment system. The headlights, front bumper and grille, as well the exhaust system have also all gone under the knife.


Price
The base Volvo XC60, powered by a normally aspirated 3.2-liter engine, starts at $39,950. Three additional versions round out the lineup: the Premier, at $44,100, the Premier Plus, at $45,700, and the Platinum, which starts at $49,000.

The R-Design version starts at $54,500. Exclusive features include sport suspension and 20-inch wheels, among others. The Premier Plus version starts at $56,100 while the Platinum version starts at $59,400.

Fuel Economy
The 6-cylinder engine consumes 11.2 L/100 km city and 7.8 L/100 km highway. The turbocharged engine is rated at 12.1 L/100 km city and 8.5 L/100 km highway.

Exterior Styling
The front and rear styling of this crossover reinforce its racy image. The aerodynamic shape and high ground clearance underscore its superior all-road capability. The sculpted rear end adds an elegant styling touch.

Drivetrain
A 3.3-liter inline 6-cylinder engine producing 240 hp and 236 lb-ft torque propels the front-wheel drive 2014 Volvo XC60. All-wheel drive aficionados benefit from the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that delivers 300 hp and 325 lb-ft torque.

Both engines are mated to an adaptive 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission. The R-Design version turbocharged engine can deliver up to 325 hp.

Cargo Capacity
Different seat configurations offer between 872 and 1909 liters of cargo capacity.

Safety
This sedan is equipped with six airbags, a pedestrian detection system and side impact protection. Options include adaptive cruise control, collision warning with full auto-brake and lane departure warning. Volvo remains an automotive-safety leader.

Comparable Models
Acura RDX, Audi Q5, BMW X3, Infiniti EX35, Land Rover LR2, Mercedes-Benz Classe GLK

Photo: Volvo

We met with Derrick Walker, IndyCar President, Operations & Competition, during our stay at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas last weekend to talk about the sensitive issue of driver safety in the IndyCar series.

Last May, Hulman and Company Chief Executive Officer, Mark Miles, and Walker announced the intent to see Arie Luyendyk's four-lap (236.986 mph) and one-lap (237.498 mph) qualification records surpassed.

“The goal is to challenge those speed records during the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500 in 2016,” said the IMS press release.

Following Dario Franchitti's crash in Houston that ended his career, and Dan Wheldon's tragic crash on the Las Vegas oval in 2011, we thought it was kind of a strange idea to yet again increase the speed of Indy cars.

Dario Franchitti's crash in Houston. (Caption: IZOD IndyCar)

“First of all, there is no mandate to make the car go faster,” Walker told us in the F1 paddock.

“The cars will go quicker just because of engine development. We have not been mandating it in terms of speeds we should be reaching. We can estimate it or predict what it might be. No, we have not been asked to increase the speeds of the cars,” Walker added.

Following these frightening crashes, something needed to be done.

“We are looking at some changes for safety, which may impact speed. As soon as we're 100% certain that it's the right thing to do, we'll implement them as quickly as we can -- maybe 2014, maybe 2015. We're always looking for improvements in safety,” Walker explained.

“Motorsport has always been dangerous. We're talking about race cars that go fast. In Dario's case, the car did its job. He survived. He was injured, but he survived. The fencing is an approved fence by the FIA. I don't think they've seen a crash just like that. So, there will be improvements implemented for that kind of fencing, I'm very certain of that,” the former IndyCar team owner said to Auto123.com.

We also asked what areas of the car need to be improved?

“I would say that there are three main areas that we're focused on right now. We need to finish that research before we decide the right thing to do. That's why I will not tell you what sections we're looking at. The thing you can't do is make changes, then compromise and make it worse,” Walker declared.

“What we need to do with experienced and knowledgeable people is quietly look at the options and understand how to make the sport safer. It is a process that all racing series of that level should be doing. We are certainly no exception. Driver safety and track safety are considerations for us. We work hand-in-hand with the FIA. They have a huge amount to knowledge in this area, so we lean on their guidance and recommendations. There's a lot to be done and very little time. We're going as quickly as we can,” Walker concluded.

From GMM

Paul di Resta has admitted he might consider a move to America's premier IndyCar series for 2014.

We reported last week that the retirement of the Scot's famous cousin, Dario Franchitti, could have opened up the top Ganassi seat for di Resta in 2014.

After three years in F1 with the Silverstone based team, 27-year-old di Resta is struggling to hang onto his Force India seat.

The highly rated Nico Hulkenberg, the team incumbent Adrian Sutil, and also the possibly Carlos Slim-backed McLaren refugee Sergio Perez, are all more seriously linked with the Sahara Force India race seats for next season.

Paul di Resta said F1 remains his top priority, but he is also not ruling out continuing his career elsewhere.

"I built a good reputation in DTM," he is quoted by the Guardian newspaper, "and there are other opportunities in a few other series."

Photo: IndyCar

Referring to IndyCar and his cousin Franchitti, di Resta continued: "I've always been slightly concerned about the safety of it, but sitting down and looking at it logically, it's a serious option to look elsewhere because of the success he has had."

It remains to be seen if Perez is really a contender for di Resta's Force India seat.

The Mexican says he may not be interested in staying in formula one beyond this season if it is with a small team.

"Yes, McLaren is helping me find a place," he is quoted by France's L'Equipe, "but it is not easy to find something that motivates me enough to stay in F1."

The all-new and highly anticipated Porsche Macan officially made its world debut today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. As Porsche's first-ever compact SUV with a sports car-like driving experience, the Macan will go on sale in Canada next spring starting at $54,300 in S trim, and $82,200 in Turbo trim.

Photo: Porsche

The Porsche Macan features headlights and taillights that are reminiscent of the 918 Spyder hybrid supercar. Another highlight is the presence of “side blades” at the bottom of the front and rear doors. These are finished in Lava Black on Macan S, painted in body colour on Macan Turbo, and can be specified in genuine carbon as an option.

The Porsche Macan S offers standard 18'' wheels while 19'' wheels are standard for the Macan Turbo. A wide range of wheels (up to 21'' in size) are available on all models.

As for motivation, the Macan S exploits a new 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers 340 horsepower, accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, and burns 8.7-9.0L/100km. The 3.6L variant in the Macan Turbo produces 400 horsepower and propels the vehicle to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds, with an average fuel consumption of 8.9-9.2L/100km.

Photo: Porsche

The interior of the Porsche Macan comes standard with a multifunction sport steering wheel (also reminiscent of the 918 Spyder), a 7'' HD touchscreen, and leather sport seats in Turbo trim.

Options include:
• 545-watt Bose and 1,000-watt Burmester audio systems;
• Dark Burl Walnut or Carbon interior finishes;
• Lane departure warning and lane change assist systems;
• Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Porsche Active Safe (PAS).

Circle December 5th on your calendar, folks: The all-new, sixth-generation 2015 Ford Mustang will finally make its debut -- some five months ahead of its 50th anniversary.

Using social media channels including Instagram, Ford will launch the new Mustang simultaneously in Dearborn (Mich.), New York, Los Angeles, Barcelona, Shanghai, and Sydney.

No technical specs have been released so far, but expect major changes and a design inspired from the Evos concept that premiered at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show.

In the meantime, you can check out www.mustanginspires.com for pictures taken by Mustang fans all over the world.

Photo: Mustang

Another vehicle making its anticipated debut today at the Los Angeles Auto Show is the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado. The redesigned midsize pickup truck will be available in three trim levels -- WT, LT, and Z71 -- as well as with three powertrains including a 193-horsepower 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, a 302-horsepower 3.6L V6, and a 2.8L Duramax turbodiesel (output TBD).

2015 Chevrolet Colorado. (Photo: Chevrolet)

In addition, buyers will have a choice of three configurations:
Extended cab with a 6' bed;
Crew cab with a 5' bed;
Crew cab with a 6' bed.

With the tailgate down, the 6' bed allows hauling of 8' long items. Meanwhile, the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado's towing capacity amounts to 6,700 lbs (3,039 kg).

The exterior design features a gunmetal grille surround, projector headlamps, and unique 17'' aluminum wheels. For hauling duties, the new Colorado offers a standard CornerStep rear bumper design (pioneered on the 2014 Silverado), an available EZ Lift-and-Lower tailgate, 13 standard tie-down locations throughout the bed for use with optional, movable cargo tie-down rings, as well as standard bed rail and tailgate protectors.

2015 Chevrolet Colorado. (Photo: Chevrolet)

The cabin of the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado includes an upright instrument panel with large instruments and a 3.4'' driver information centre (similar to the Silverado), a centre console with a floor-mounted shifter and an open area at the front for easier phone charging, plus a sculpted headliner that enhances headroom.

As for technologies, the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado can be equipped with an 8'' touchscreen, a navigation system, next-generation OnStar and MyLink enhancements with gesture recognition and natural language voice recognition, not to mention advanced safety systems such as forward collision alert and lane departure warning.

Prices for the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado will be announced later.

Today marked the world premiere of the new 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Scheduled to hit the market next spring, this powerful and fuel-efficient luxury sedan combines a 3.5L V6 engine (rated at 310 horsepower) with three electric motors (including two in the rear). With a net output of 377 horsepower, it sprints from 0-100 km/h in V8-like times while offering 4-cylinder fuel economy.

The 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD is the first Acura vehicle to feature an electronic gear selector, which replaces the conventional shift lever with an efficiently packaged push-button array that allows the driver to easily select the desired drive mode -- Park, Drive, or Reverse.

Photo: Acura

The very spacious and upscale interior of the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD includes head-up display, the AcuraLink cloud-based connected car system, and a 14-speaker surround sound system. A large, 8'' colour screen combines audio/information and navigation functions while providing access to an array of customizable features. An additional 7'' colour On Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD) touchscreen is also positioned within easy reach.

The 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD comes with many standard safety features such as:
• Multi-angle rearview camera;
• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS);
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW);
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS);
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow;
• Blind Spot Information (BSI) system.

With a longer wheelbase and wider side glass than competitors, the 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid SH-AWD also sports Jewel Eye LED headlights and LED taillights, while its advanced body structure makes extensive use of high-strength steel and aluminum.

Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix will mark the last Formula 1 race for Cosworth, putting an end to a brilliant era.

Cosworth was founded in 1958 in Great Britain by Mike Costin and Keith Duckworth.

Their first Formula 1 engine, the acclaimed DFV came to life in 1966 when Colin Chapman, Lotus Cars founder and principal of Team Lotus, persuaded Ford to bankroll Duckworth's design for a new lightweight three-litre F1V8 engine.

The original Ford Cosworth DFV (Photo: WRI2)

The DFV won on its first outing, at the 1967 Dutch Grand Prix in the hands of Jim Clark, fitted to a Lotus 49. From 1968, the Ford Cosworth DFV was available for purchase to any F1 team that wished it.

The DFV is the second winningest engine in F1 behind Ferrari, having claimed 176 victories.

Cosworth then produced several other F1 engines to match the current regulations such as the V6 Ford turbo, the HB, the Zetec-R, the CR series and the CA series.

In 2004, American millionaires Kevin Kalkhoven and Gerald Forsythe purchased the Cosworth and Pi Group companies from Ford.

The Cosworth-powered Marussia, US Grand Prix in Austin (Photo: René Fagnan)

The Cosworth CA2013 will power the Marussias of Jules Bianchi and Max Chilton for the last time Sunday at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

Statistics* of the original Cosworth company (1967-2004):
567 Grands Prix
38 seasons
68 constructors
323 drivers
176 victories
139 pole positions
160 fastest laps
535 podiums
4,336.50 points
7.65 pts / GP
114.12 pts / season
10,695 laps in the lead
49,290 km in the lead
260,847 laps completed
1,227,648 km covered
Claimed drivers' world championship in 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1978, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1994

Statistics* of the new Cosworth company (2005-2013):
113 Grands Prix
6 seasons
8 constructors
37 drivers
1 pole position
1 fastest lap
127 points
1.12 pts / GP
21.17 pts / season
5 laps in the lead
25 km in the lead
25,162 laps completed
127,905 km covered

* Statistic provided by Statsf1.com

My entire week behind the wheel of the 2013 Land Rover LR4 I felt as if I was keeping a feral cat trapped in a garage, and not because it was so raucous and chaotic on the road, but because I was keeping it from its wild nature, it's natural habit: the great outdoors.

Sure, the LR4 is a lumbering luxurious people mover, but it's also a rough-and-tough off-roader -- and that's the true beauty of a Land Rover.

Once again I was reminded how quickly I'd drop the many dollars needed to own one of these British brutes after my time behind the wheel.


What is a Land Rover LR4?
Capable, courteous, and cautiously beautiful, the Land Rover LR4 has remained throughout its four generations a luxurious off-roader for the high-class and well-off of the world.

As utilitarian as it is amenity-laden, the Land Rover LR4 is the go-to vehicle of well-to-do country dwellers in need of an off-roader that's just as welcome at the country club as it is on the back roads. And that's the true beauty of the LR4, because it truly is as comfortable in either location.

Capable, courteous, and cautiously beautiful, the Land Rover LR4 has remained throughout its four generations a luxurious off-roader for the high-class and well-off of the world. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

2013 Land Rover LR4 Price and Specs
The 2013 Land Rover LR4 is available in three trim levels (base, HSE and HSE LUX); the Land Rover LR4's base price is $59,490. The top of the line HSE LUX model jumps to the $70,790 mark.

Across the line, all 2013 Land Rover LR4 models are equipped with an LR-V8 5.0L engine good for 375 horsepower. A 6-speed CommandShift transmission handles the power. With its 2-speed transfer gearbox, and Land Rover's 4-Corner Electronic Air Suspension and Terrain Response, the LR4 truly is built to handle whatever you throw its way.

All 2013 Land Rover LR4 models are equipped with an LR-V8 5.0L engine good for 375 horsepower. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the 2013 Land Rover LR4
It doesn't matter if you're traversing the urban sprawl to pick up the kids at school or fighting through the muddy back roads to get to your secluded cottage for the weekend; the 2013 Land Rover LR4 will do each (and more) with aplomb.

The LR4 really can do anything. There are few, if any, luxury SUVs I'd take through mid-car levels of water, but I've done it in the LR4. In the same vein, if I were to choose a vehicle to pull up to a party in, I'd choose the LR4, too. It's the ideal blend of class and crass.

There's no denying this is a massive vehicle (if I don't engage “load height” for entry and exit, it can be quite the sight to see), but it doesn't feel huge when you're behind the wheel. Of course, all-around cameras help in stickier parking-lot situations where size can be an issue, but otherwise, the 2013 Land Rover LR4 is a pleasure to drive.

It's not about speed or agility in this behemoth, but more about poise, grace and ability -- all of which it has in spades.

It doesn't matter if you're traversing the urban sprawl to pick up the kids at school or fighting through the muddy back roads to get to your secluded cottage for the weekend; the 2013 Land Rover LR4 will do each with aplomb. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Land Rover LR4
I'm a huge fan of the new Landie face. Designers did a great job updating the off-roader to modern standards, without losing its rugged heritage-inspired look. True, the '13 Landie is as boxy as ever, but I think that's just perfect. That's what a Land Rover is supposed to look like -- leave the fancy looks for the Ranges.

Decked out in white with black satin grille, Land Rover badging and 19” alloy wheels, my tester was quite the looker. I love the black-on-white look and think it adds a certain youthful look to the LR. This isn't an SUV that will appeal to the masses due to its purposeful exterior poise, but I love it.

Inside, the 2013 Land Rover LR4 received some key upgrades with soft-touch materials, mood lighting and unique rear seat combinations (35:30:35 available). Some might not realize it, but the LR4 is actually the “least luxurious” along with the LR2. The Range Rovers are the silver-spoon Landies in the family, while the LRs are there to do a job, and do it well. That's not the say the interior isn't comfy, because it so is.

Of course, Land Rover's onboard entertainment system is a constant source of contention for me. Fingers crossed they'll change it one day soon...

Inside, the 2013 Land Rover LR4 received some key upgrades with soft-touch materials, mood lighting and unique rear seat combinations. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the 2013 Land Rover LR4
Sixty-five years of experience in the world of off-roading kinda makes you untouchable, however, the Land Rover LR4 isn't alone in its luxurious abilities. In fact, I'd say it has a formidable opponent in the Mercedes-Benz GL 350 BlueTEC simply because the Merc offers a diesel powerplant where the Land Rover doesn't.

From press release

Takuma Sato has been announced by Formula E organizers as one of the drivers who will assist with the development work of the new zero emission car over the coming months, together with current test driver Lucas di Grassi.


Sato remains one of Japan's most well-known drivers securing a podium (US GP) and nine points finishes during the 2004 F1 season with BAR.

The 36-year-old switched to IndyCar in 2010 and this season scored his maiden victory at the Long Beach Grand Prix on his way to 17th overall.

Photo: FIA FE

“I am very excited to be a part of the Driver's Programme for the development of the Formula E cars,” Sato who will be one of several top drivers used to help develop the SRT_01E. 

“This series provides a huge potential for the future of motor racing and electric cars.

“I am sure that these fascinating new innovative multimedia contents will excite the new fans who will be watching this new series.

“I am very much looking forward to driving the test car this coming winter.”

Japanese Formula E team Super Aguri was also recently announced as one of the 10 teams that will take part in the inaugural season.

Four-time ALMS champion Level 5 Motorsport has confirmed two Prototype Challenge entries ahead of the inaugural season of the United SportsCar Championship (USCC).

The PC class features one-make Le Mans-style racing based on Oreca's FLM09 chassis. Level 5 plans on running two brand new cars in 2014.

“Level 5 has proven that it is well capable of winning races and championships in the class and we feel that we can bring our experience, expertise and resources needed for customers to succeed in this competitive form of racing,” said Level 5 team manager David Stone.

The Madison, Wisconsin-based organization, keen on attracting drivers to the series, started prospecting for drivers last weekend during a shakedown test for USCC teams at Sebring. Level 5 is and offers multiple options.

“We're very flexible as far as future options are concerned,” added Stone.

“(Owner) Scott (Tucker)'s ultimate goal for Level 5 from the beginning was to build a world-class organization that could support the best sports car drivers as customers. And that's exactly what we have done.”

Dodge will turn 100 in 2014, so the company decided to celebrate the milestone with 100th Anniversary editions of the Charger and Challenger. Both will arrive in U.S. showrooms during the first quarter.

Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary Editions. (Photo: Dodge)

As the world's only four-door muscle car, the Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Edition is based on the Charger SXT Plus. It comes with a choice of two engines including a 300-horsepower Pentastar V6 and a 370-horsepower HEMI V8.

Meanwhile, the Dodge Challenger 100th Anniversary offers the same engines, but with a 5-horsepower gain.

The 100th Anniversary Edition models are available with an all-new and exclusive High Octane Red Pearl Coat paint. They feature 20'' alloy wheels, a red or black Nappa leather interior, Uconnect with 8.4'' display, and ''100th Anniversary'' emblems on the dashboard and front seats.

Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Editions. (Photo: Dodge)

Dodge says the Charger and Challenger 100th Anniversary Editions will require a premium of $2,200 and $2,500 USD, respectively.

Canadian availability remains a mystery. We'll keep you updated if and when an announcement is made.