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We're now in the thick of winter, and it's pretty damn cold -- at least from where I stand. The roads are covered in hard-packed snow and a bit of ice, making them awfully slippery.

The perfect setting for rally races!

Since it requires tortuous roads in remote locations, this sport remains auto racing's lesser child. Not many people indeed want to venture into the backcountry to attend races on less-than-accessible roads in freezing temperatures.

Personally, though, rallying is the most intricate, most demanding and possibly the purest form of auto racing.

Rally drivers need to put the pedal to the metal while showing enough smarts not to fly off the road and crash -- and that's with near-production cars. Yep, all rally cars must be street-legal and registered, even the most exotic ones that compete in the WRC and are worth over a half-million dollars each.

Photo: Peugeot Sport

Unlike closed-circuit races like in Formula 1 and NASCAR, rallying demands to be fast on any type of terrain (asphalt, gravel, snow, ice, or dirt), in any type of weather (heat, cold, rain, etc.)

These highly gifted drivers have an incredible knack for anticipating what lies ahead and improvising on the spot. They manage to decipher the environment and predict the level of traction even before they start to brake in a corner.

I had the opportunity to attend a few basic lessons in the art of rally driving, and I can assure you that maintaining control of a car in such difficult conditions is no picnic. I have tremendous respect for rally drivers who keep flirting with the laws of physics at every turn, not to mention the trees, ditches and spectators all around!

Are they the best in the world? Is nine-time WRC champion Sebastien Loeb a more skilled driver than Sebastian Vettel (three F1 titles), Jimmie Johnson (five NASCAR titles), or Tom Kristensen (eight victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans)? No one will ever know for certain.

However, one fact speaks for itself: Rally drivers who try their luck on the track usually fare a lot better than track specialists who go out and compete in rallies. So, yeah, I think they're the best on the planet.

What's your take?

From GMM

Adrian Newey has revealed a secret of his success at Red Bull -- the team lets him get on with the job of designing formula one cars in peace.

"For me, here it's ideal," he is quoted by Speed Week. "I want to manage as little as possible, and spend as much time as possible thinking about the car."

"At Red Bull that's fundamentally different than when I was with McLaren," the Briton added.

Newey, however, acknowledges that he would have enjoyed some more time to stew over the RB9; the new Red Bull with which Sebastian Vettel will charge for an ultra-rare fourth consecutive drivers' title.

Mark Webber, Red Bull RB9. (Photo: WRi2)

Adrian Newey admits it is a "small miracle" that the RB9 was able to be unveiled at all this week at Jerez, due to Red Bull having to push last year's development right to the end of the title charge.

"This is also one of the reasons why the RB9 is an evolution," he acknowledged.

Finally, Newey gave a sobering analysis of the amount of input Vettel and his experienced teammate Mark Webber have in the design of a new car.

"Not so much. Basically, we know by now exactly what Seb and Mark want from a racing car," he smiled.

If you're even slightly savvy about commercial vehicles, you're probably up on the fact that Nissan's launching products to compete with Chevrolet, Ford, Mercedes and the like currently available. They've even set up some 44 Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealerships across Canada.

The latest model to drive Nissan's dip into the Canadian commercial vehicle market is called the NV200 and it took its official first bow at the Montreal Auto Show last month. It's no surprise that Nissan chose Montreal for the NV200's Canadian debut, given the strong European consumer presence in Montreal, and the strongly European character of the model itself. In fact, NV200 won the title of “European Van of the Year” in 2010.


"There is an increasing need for a 'right-sized' van that optimizes cargo space while offering the best possible fuel economy and an affordable price -- the exact sweet spots of the innovative new Nissan NV200," said Judy Wheeler, Director of Marketing at Nissan Canada. "Businesses today, both large and small, are also looking for vehicles that represent their brands in the best light: smart, innovative, and professional."

The Nissan NV200 is the third commercial vehicle offering from the Japanese automaker in Canada, following the NV Cargo and NV Passenger vans which launched last year.

Though new to Canada, the NV200 is already in service in more than 40 countries around the globe. For North American duty, engineers extended the body by 200 millimeters, enabling a 3.5 cubic meter cargo capacity, despite a small external footprint.

Numerous interior storage solutions, including a laptop-friendly pocket in the centre console, are also present. A backup camera, Bluetooth, navigation and pre-wiring for GPS-based telematics systems will also be offered. All models will be powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and CVT transmission.

Look for the NV200 at Nissan Commercial Vehicle dealers later this year.

Photo: Nissan

From GMM

Marussia parted with Timo Glock because a backmarker team needs every million.

That is the claim of Pat Symonds, the former Renault 'crash-gate' conspirator who - after serving his F1 ban - is now openly in charge of the 2013 Marussia MR02.

Devoid of many sponsors, the new red and black car will be raced this year by wealthy Max Chilton and Luiz Razia, who replaced German Glock at the last minute.

"For Red Bull, one million has little effect," Symonds is quoted by Auto Motor und Sport. "For us it's different."

Marussia has openly admitted it ousted the salaried Glock because it needed a driver to bring significant sponsorship.

Timo Glock will race the 2013 DTM championship with BMW. (Photo: BMW Motorsport)

"I have to take my hat off to Timo," said Symonds, referring to the 30-year-old who has switched to DTM with BMW. "He understood our situation and told us that if his leaving can help 100 jobs, then he will make room for another driver."

Still, Pat Symonds regrets that Glock had to go.

"He is an excellent driver; with his experience and feedback he helped a lot with the development of the car," he said. "And he was excellent in difficult conditions. On a dry track, he was three to five tenths in front of (Charles) Pic (in 2012). But in difficult conditions, such as the last race in Brazil, it was one and a half seconds."

Martin Whitmarsh, the McLaren boss who this week admitted he tried and failed to help former team driver Heikki Kovalainen stay in F1, said the current 'pay driver' situation is "a shame" for F1.

"It is exciting for those guys who can afford it, but in my opinion this is the top of motor sport," he is quoted by the Dutch magazine Formule1.

"For some teams it's difficult to survive, that's for sure," he acknowledged.

From GMM

Ferrari on Friday denied rumours Fernando Alonso is nursing an injury.

Most suspect that the Spaniard is sitting out the Jerez test this week so that the new F138 car can be 'shaken down' by Felipe Massa and Pedro de la Rosa ahead of Alonso's debut on the much more representative Barcelona track.

But one or two whispers in the Jerez paddock this week suggested Alonso may have injured a rib whilst karting last month.

Fernando Alonso jogging in Dubai this week. (Photo: Twitter Fernando Alonso)

However, as the double world champion is currently running and cycling in Dubai and happily posting photos to Twitter to prove it, a Ferrari spokesperson said on Friday: "It's obvious how hard Fernando is training at the moment."

"This rumour (about the injury) is utter nonsense and totally untrue," Ferrari added.

Fernando Alonso biking in Dubai this week. (Photo: Twitter Fernando Alonso)

From GMM

Kimi Raikkonen has split with his wife of eight years.

When a McLaren driver, the Finn married former Miss Scandinavia Jenni Dahlman in 2004.

The Finnish entertainment magazine 7 Paivaa reports that they have split.

"It's true, they have grown in different directions," confirmed the now Lotus driver's personal assistant Ridu Kuvaja, according to Finnish daily Ilta Sanomat.

Kimi and Jenni Raikkonen. (Photo: Facebook)

The newspaper said Jenni moved out of their EUR 30 million home in Switzerland several weeks ago.

Broadcaster MTV3 reports that divorce could be "expensive" for Raikkonen, given his estimated fortune of more than EUR 120 million, including a portfolio of properties.

From GMM

Peter Sauber has urged Robin Frijns, the Swiss F1 team's new reserve driver, to find a race cockpit in another series for 2013.

Recently, Dutchman Frijns - the new Formula Renault 3.5 champion - was interpreted as having criticised the Hinwil based team for not giving him "much to do" in 2013 as he prepares to serve as reserve driver.

Robin Frijns wants to race in 2013. (Photo: Renault)

Team co-owner and founder Peter Sauber reacted: "As far as I understand, some quotes were taken out of context. From our side, it was clear from the outset that he will not be driving on Fridays," he insisted.

"But at the same time, it is absolutely in our interest that he races in 2013, simply to stay fresh as a race driver. This is being worked on," Sauber told Speed Week.

"I really like Robin," the 69-year-old continued. "He has won in every series in which he has competed. He is a great talent and I am happy that we have him with us."

Sauber team boss Monisha Kaltenborn hinted recently that Robin Frijns is seeking to combine his new F1 role with a seat in GP2.

Austin, TX - I landed in the land of Longhorns bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to take on whatever the Lone Star State had to throw my way... No, I lie; I arrived tired and crabby from a long day of travelling, but as I walked the grounds of the gorgeous Travaasa Resort nestled at the top of a hill on the outskirts of Austin, Texas, I came upon the reason I was there, sitting pretty amongst the gnarled Texas Live Oak trees: the brand new 2014 Mazda6 and my mood lifted.

Brand new from nose to tail, the 2014 Mazda6 is something to behold, and not just because of its stunning good looks. Take a gander under the hood and you'll be just as pleasantly surprised and eager to get behind the wheel soon after. While I'm very much looking forward to a longer drive in the Mazda6, after traversing the winding, undulating, sweeping roads around Austin, Texas, I can assure you that Mazda are quite serious about developing a car with their “driver” customers in mind.


Nipped, tucked, facelifted, lipoed and ready to face the world
From nose to tail and on the side, the 2014 Mazda6 truly is “all new.” Mazda went to great lengths to perfect the overall look of the Mazda6, with the knowledge that they were developing and working on a model that was, and will continue to be, a flagship car for Mazda.

As the second car in Mazda's lineup to feature their KODO design language, there's no denying this sedan is a looker. With a front end that's got some serious attitude and presence parked or on the move, the 2014 Mazda6 front grille features an updated, much more sophisticated take on the wide, gaping opening found on the Mazda6s of the past. The angles are sharp, and yet the lines flow smoothly from nose to tail. Muscular shoulders sit atop 17” (or 19” on the topline GT trim), and a sharply raking roofline down the back elicits thoughts of a coupe.

While I'm not completely sold on the rear just yet, I can see it starting to grow on me. The “I mean business” look continues back there too, with the furrowed chrome brow sitting low and hard across the taillights.

With colours like Soul Red (fabulous, by the way), Blue Reflex and Snowflake White Pearl, the 2014 Mazda6 may only offer a total of nine model codes in the lineup (one of the smallest), but there are enough colour/trim/packages available to find a Mazda6 to call your own.

Mazda went to great lengths to perfect the overall look of the Mazda6, with the knowledge that they were developing and working on a model that was, and will continue to be, a flagship car for Mazda. (Photo: Miranda Lightstone)

From the base GX up to the GT, the interior is sophisticated and well laid out. Roomy in the front, with only a slight headroom issue in the back (thanks to that cool, coupe-like look) the 2014 Mazda6 has all the makings of a comfortable, family sedan.

Options include the norm such as black or white leather trim is available (yes, white leather), power-adjusted seats, navigation system, and SiriusXM satellite radio. To note: Mazda's Technology package should be called the “safety package” instead since it features all the fancy nannies: Smart City Brake Support, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, High Beam Control, Forward Obstruction Warning, and Lane Departure Warning.

From the base GX up to the GT, the interior is sophisticated and well laid out. (Photo: Mazda)

Zoom-zoom in the Texan sun
Alright, now the part you've all been waiting for: How does the 2014 Mazda6 drive? As the very first Mazda car to feature entirely all SKYACTIV technology, the Mazda6 is a flagship for more than one reason. Available as a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic (of note: both transmissions are offered at the same price on the Mazda6 as the Japanese automaker believes drivers should drive what they want to drive, at no extra cost to them).

Let me say, the 2.5L I4 (which stretches across all three trim levels, GX, GS and GT) which puts out 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque is absolutely fantastic. Responsive, reactive and ready to perform whenever the need arises, Mazda has a fantastic product in their SKYACTIV engines and transmission. Fuel efficiency numbers are also quite good with the 6AT able to reach the 5.1L/100km mark on highways.

While I enjoyed driving the manual a great deal (and appreciated the precise shifts offered by the gearbox and easy-to-use clutch), I had just as much fun (if not a little more) with the automatic transmission that's just as eager to please. Kickdowns offer a throaty snarl out the rear and you're given a glimpse into why Mazda believes the 2014 Mazda6 is a driver's car. That nagging lag between shifts in sport mode 6ATs is pleasantly short and barely noticeable.

We were told that the Mazda6 development team focused on integrating a great deal of “Jinba-ittai” into the performance of the new model. What is that, you might ask? Well, a loose translation references a relationship between horse and rider as one. And while driving the 2014 Mazda6 isn't quite the same as hacking through the woods on my horse, I can see the integration of the mindset in the drive.

Let me say, the 2.5L I4 which puts out 184 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque is absolutely fantastic. (Photo: Miranda Lightstone)

That dirty word... Diesel
Yup, that's right. There will be a diesel variant of the 2014 Mazda6 arriving shortly, as well. Featuring the SKYACTIV-D engine, this diesel-sucking Japanese vehicle will help Mazda target who they believe to be their main competition, the VW Passat.

I did not drive the diesel variant of the 2014 Mazda6 while I was in Austin, so cannot comment on the performance, however, I am eager to try it and so happy to hear that diesel is very much on its way to North America -- finally.

Priced to kill...
Alright, so for all this fancy SKYACTIV, KODO, fun-in-the-sun driveability, what are you going to have to dish out for the 2014 Mazda6? For a base GS model you'll start at the $24,595 mark; and for a top of the line GT decked out with a Technology Package you'll skim the $34,195 line. All in all, the 2014 Mazda6 is priced to adequately take on the competition, and with a diesel in the wings it's very likely going to crush quite a few along the way.

The revolutionary Deltawing car is powered by a Mazda engine, now that Nissan has withdrawn from the project.

The Deltawing project, headed by Dan Gurney, team Highcroft and Don Panoz, became reality last season, when the car made its racing debuts at Le Mans 24 Hours. This season, the Deltawing will run in the American Le Mans Series, in a class of its own.

Photo: Highcroft

But Nissan wanted out of the project, so the people behind the DeltaWing switched to a Mazda MZR engine, developed by Elan Technologie.

Mazda, however, will solely act as an engine supplier, not as a partner like Nissan used to.

The 2013 Nissan Frontier, which is now on sale across Canada, starts at $20,898 and offers an average price drop of $4,300 across all trims and models.

MSRPs for the 2013 Nissan Frontier include:
2013 Frontier King Cab 2.5 M5 4x2: $20,898
2013 Frontier King Cab 2.5 A5 4x2: $22,218
2013 Frontier King Cab 4.0 A5 4x2: $23,898
2013 Frontier King Cab 4.0 M6 4x4: $25,898
2013 Frontier King Cab 4.0 A5 4x4: $27,218
2013 Frontier Crew Cab 4.0 A5 4x2: $27,698
2013 Frontier Crew Cab 4.0 M6 4x4: $29,698
2013 Frontier Crew Cab 4.0 A5 4x4: $31,018

Photo: Nissan

The Toyota Fun Vii, a concept that originally made its debut at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Show, will appear for the first time in Canada next week at Toronto's Canadian International Auto Show.

The Fun Vii (which stands for “Vehicle, interactive, internet”) is a very futuristic three-seat electric car, with the body serving as a gigantic tablet. Users can change the colour, broadcast messages and pictures, etc.

Likewise, the interior features a highly customizable environment, one where users can select the information they want to have displayed -- and how -- to suit their preferences and mood.

The Fun Vii also boasts a blind spot monitor and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication systems.

Photo: Toyota

The completely redesigned Kia Forte 5-Door made its debut yesterday at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. Longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, it really fits the hot hatch mould from across the Atlantic.

“The Forte 5-Door infuses European-inspired styling with the functionality and practicality of a hatchback, while also providing impressive performance with an all-new 1.6L turbo gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine,” said Robert Staffieri, Marketing Director at Kia Canada Inc.

The Kia Forte 5-Door is available in two trim levels. The EX features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine that produces 173 horsepower, while the sportier SX gets a 1.6L turbocharged unit rated at 201 horsepower.

Full specifications for the Kia Forte 5-Door, including prices and fuel economy ratings, will be announced closer to its launch this summer.

Photo: Kia

Kia yesterday unveiled its new Cross GT concept at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show.

This boldly styled, powerful-looking premium crossover shares bloodlines with the 2014 Kia Sorento, but appears even more imposing. It was penned in Irvine, California, by the same design studio that created the Track'ster, KV7 and Soul'ster concepts, and most recently the all-new production 2014 Kia Forte sedan.

Featuring rear-hinged rear doors, the Kia Cross GT easily accommodates four passengers and their cargo. A multipanel panoramic sunroof with hexagonal glass inserts lets daylight into the cabin and enhances the vehicle's upscale looks.

As for motivation, the Kia Cross GT uses a parallel hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.8L V6 with a flat electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Together, they generate 500 lb-ft of torque and 400 horsepower, while allowing an all-electric range of 20 miles (32 km).

Photo: Kia

Kimi Räikkönen (Lotus E21) went quicker than everybody else today, testing ahead of the 2013 Formula 1 season in Jerez, Spain.

Exhaust system of the Lotus E21 (Photo: WRi2)

The Finn completed a total of 123 laps over the two days he was behind the wheel of the new Lotus, which turn out to be the last two of the four-day test in Jerez.

Jules Bianchi, Force India VJM06 (Photo: WRi2)

Second fastest Friday was Jules Bianchi, the Force India reserve driver who is still trying to secure the vacant race seat at the Silverstone-based team.

Triple world champion Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull RB9) posted the third fastest lap of the day, without a single hitch to report.

Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes W04 (Photo: WRi2)

Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes W04), who was limited by brake failures to only 15 laps Wednesday, got another go at his new car, recording a total of 145 laps. His best time was the sixth fastest of day, putting him just in front of Sergio Pérez, who replaced him at McLaren.

The Mexican was seventh fastest aboard McLaren's MP4-28.

Exhaust system of the McLaren MP4-28 (Photo: WRi2)

In the Ferrari F138, new development driver Pedro de la Rosa took over from Felipe Massa. The 41-year-old completed 50 laps.

The next pre-season test is to be held February 19-22, in Barcelona, Spain

Jean-Éric Vergne, Toro Rosso STR8 (Photo: WRi2)

Winter testing, Jerez, Spain, Day 4*
1. Kimi Raikkonen, Lotus, 1:18.148, 83 laps
2. Jules Bianchi, Force India, 1:18.175, 56 laps
3. Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull, 1:18.565, 96 laps
4. Esteban Gutierrez, Sauber, 1:18.669, 142 laps
5. Jean-Eric Vergne, Toro Rosso, 1:18.760, 92 laps
6. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes, 1:18.905, 145 laps
7. Sergio Perez, McLaren, 1:18.944, 98 laps
8. Valtteri Bottas, Williams, 1:19.851, 92 laps**
9. Pedro de la Rosa, Ferrari, 1:20.316, 51 laps
10. Charles Pic, Caterham, 1:21.105, 109 laps
11. Luiz Razia, Marussia, 1:21.226, 82 laps
12. Paul di Resta, Force India, 1:23.435, 49 laps

Aggregate times
1. Felipe Massa, Ferrari, 1:17.879, 227 laps
2. Kimi Raikkonen, Lotus, 1:18.148, 123 laps
3. Jules Bianchi, Force India, 1:18.175, 56 laps
4. Romain Grosjean, Lotus, 1:18.218, 149 laps
5. Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull, 1:18.565, 198 laps
6. Esteban Gutierrez, Sauber, 1:18.669, 252 laps
7. Jean-Eric Vergne, Toro Rosso, 1:18.760, 177 laps
8. Nico Rosberg, Mercedes, 1:18.766, 162 laps
9. Jenson Button, McLaren, 1:18.861, 120 laps
10. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes, 1:18.905, 160 laps
11. Sergio Perez, McLaren, 1:18.944, 179 laps
12. Paul di Resta, Force India, 1:19.003, 240 laps
13. Daniel Ricciardo, Toro Rosso, 1:19.134, 153 laps
14. James Rossiter, Force India, 1:19.303, 61 laps
15. Mark Webber, Red Bull, 1:19.338, 174 laps
16. Nico Hulkenberg, Sauber, 1:19.502, 178 laps
17. Valtteri Bottas, Williams, 1:19.851, 178 laps **
18. Pedro de la Rosa, Ferrari, 1:20.316, 51 laps
19. Pastor Maldonado, Williams, 1:20.693, 155 laps **
20. Charles Pic, Caterham, 1:21.105, 166 laps
21. Luiz Razia, Marussia, 1:21.226, 113 laps
22. Max Chilton, Marussia, 1:21.269, 107 laps
23. Giedo van der Garde, Caterham, 1:21.311, 152 laps

*Unofficial timing
**Using 2012 car

Subaru will unveil a new crossover concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. Called “VIZIV” (Vision for Innovation), it will embody Subaru's future design direction and technological approach.

All we have to chew on for now is a picture of the front grille and left headlight. Expect more details and full shots to come after the launch on March 5th.

In addition to the VIZIV, Subaru will showcase its all-new 2014 Forester, as well as the first Outback to combine a diesel-powered 2.0L boxer engine with a Lineartronic CVT.

Photo: Subaru

This is a true story, and the people involved will swear by it. Years ago, a family friend owned a

The U.S. Department of Energy, taking another step to help make electric vehicles more popular, has teamed up with automakers and several other companies to boost the number of office-based charging stations tenfold within the next five years.

We bring you the details on a pair of new VW Beetles and the refreshed Toyota Tundra from the

It's not uncommon for racing and music to collide (think Lynyrd Skynyrd jamming out on the infield stage at Indianapolis Motor Speedway before the Indy 500 or the Grateful Dead's "New Speedway Boogie").

PSA/Peugeot-Citroen took second-half writedowns of 4.13 billion euros ($5.53 billion), reflecting the falling value of assets as the region's auto sales sink a sixth straight year.