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Summary
The distinguished, sporty style and high-quality fit and finish make the 2014 Chrysler the cream of the luxury sport-sedan crop. Available in several popular versions, it's the vehicle of choice for a wide variety of customers.


Price (base)

• 300 Touring: $34,925
• 300S: $38,295
• 300C: $39,295
• 300C Luxury Series: $41,295
• 300 SRT: $49,395

Under the Hood
The 2014 Chrysler 300 is delivered with a standard Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 VVT engine that produces 292 hp. Two V8 options include a 5.7-liter 363 hp V8 HEMI and a 6.4-liter 470 hp V8 HEMI. The V6 is mated to a standard 8-speed automatic transmission with an all-wheel drive option also available. The V8 engines are matched to a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy (city/highway)

• 6-cylinder: 10.9/6.4 L/100 km and 11.4/7.3 L/100 km (AWD)
• V8 5.7 L: 14.1/7.8 L/100 km and 13.5/8.0 L/100 km (AWD)
• V8 6.4 L: 15.0/8.7 L/100 km

Exterior Styling
The 2014 Chrysler 300 has an aggressive stance, body-coloured door handles, chrome grille, LED headlights and a choice of 17 to 20-inch wheels.

Interior Styling
The spacious cabin is covered in refined, quality soft-touch materials and is equipped with ambient LED lighting, a leather-covered steering wheel and superior soundproofing. Luxurious Nappa leather seating is standard on the 300C and available as an option in the remaining versions.

Technology
A sophisticated infotainment system, humidity sensor, Sirius satellite radio as well as pushbutton stop/start are just a small sample of the numerous technological features available in the 2014 Chrysler 300. A Harman/Kardon or Beats Audio system, as well as navigation package can also be added to this model.

Safety
The 300 is equipped with seven airbags, including side curtains and passenger knee protection in addition to electronic stability control. Available safety options include:

• Adaptive forward lighting system for improved visibility;
• Adaptive cruise control;
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection;
• Park View backup camera.

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

Photo: Chrysler

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

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.

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 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.

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

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.

Porsche next year will test the patience of sports car enthusiasts again when it begins selling the Macan, a compact crossover that likely will shift the majority of Porsche's volume from sports cars to people-haulers.

Pictures See all 19 pictures 20 Nov, 2013

News 20 Nov, 2013

The Nissan IDx concept has been revealed at the Tokyo show, a retro coupe to rival the Toyota GT-86

Jaguar priced the base F-Type coupe at $65,895, including shipping -- $4,000 less than the convertible that went on sale in May.

Despite some nascent signs of a plateau, a panel of auto executives said they anticipate U.S. light-vehicle sales to exceed 16 million units in 2014. Top executives from Kia, Mazda and Toyota said they expect U.S.

When

News 20 Nov, 2013

2016 BMW 5 Series hits the road and our spies catch it testing at BMW's R&D base in Munich

News 20 Nov, 2013

Toyota version to be badged as Lexus with styling cues from LF-LC concept

Car sales are leading housing starts in driving America's economic recovery, but housing starts are catching up and adding momentum, a leading economist said Tuesday. And a J.D.

The head of Audi's Munich design studio, Achim Badstuebner, is leaving to join Mercedes-Benz. Badstuebner will lead exterior design at Mercedes starting Jan. 1, said Gorden Wagener, Daimler's chief designer.

The head of Audi's Munich design studio, Achim Badstuebner, is leaving to join Mercedes as head of exterior design.

Ford, trying to satisfy customer demands for more in-car technology, said technology companies must work in more open and flexible ways for Internet 'connected-car' features to be as seamless as smartphone apps.

Masa-michi Kogai, the new CEO of Mazda Motor Corp., has set what looks like an impossibly high bar for reintroducing the company's rotary engine.