Auto News 5

General Motors CEO Dan Akerson told Automotive News that his successor should be a "change agent" who can guard against any complacency that could allow the automaker to slip back into bad habits.

Instead of the Los Angeles or Tokyo Auto Show, Lincoln chose to hold a separate event in the Big Apple to introduce the production version of its all-new MKC, which initially appeared in concept form earlier this year in Detroit.

As the brand's first compact luxury CUV, the 2015 Lincoln MKC will enter the assembly plant in the second quarter of 2014 ahead of its summer release. It will rival the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLK.

Lincoln MKC 2015. (Photo: Lincoln)

Combining the refinement of a premium sedan with the practicality of a sporty SUV, the 2015 Lincoln MKC features HID headlamps with signature LED accents. Once parked, sensing your approach (up to 8.8 feet away), the MKC's door-handle pockets glow in the colour of your vehicle, and a welcome light illuminates the ground.

Inside the five-passenger cabin of the 2015 Lincoln MKC, you'll find aluminum accents, genuine wood trim, soft-touch materials, and leather upholstery. Key features include a shifter with start/stop button, MyLincoln Touch with SYNC, an 8'' touchscreen, and a 14-speaker THX II premium sound system.

Meanwhile, the 2015 Lincoln MKC comes standard with all-wheel drive and a 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine that produces 240 horsepower. Another EcoBoost unit, this one rated at 275 horsepower, is optionally available.

From GMM

Stepping straight into a top F1 team is a "massive risk" for a rookie, Jenson Button said on Thursday.

The continuing McLaren driver was referring to the British team's decision to replace Sergio Perez with the new Formula Renault 3.5 champion Kevin Magnussen.

Jenson Button admitted he was surprised to hear of McLaren's decision to give him a new teammate for the second consecutive year, having said recently he thinks Mexican Perez deserved to stay in 2014.

"It's one of those positions where it could light up your career or put an end to your career very early if things don't go well," the 2009 world champion told reporters in Austin.

"It's a massive risk to be put in the deep end, if you like, with a team that should be fighting for a title. But if a driver is willing to take that risk, he has a lot of confidence in himself and his ability," added Button.

Kevin Magnussen. (Photo: McLaren F1 Team)

The news has put Perez, just 23, in a difficult position with just two races left to run in 2013.

But, even though McLaren's decision might end his F1 career altogether, Perez has been reasonably polite about the team through the media so far.

McLaren, meanwhile, has paid kind tribute to Perez's contribution and talent.

"Perez thanked McLaren as though they have done him a favour," said a frustrated Michael Schmidt, the highly respected correspondent for Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

"And McLaren has praised Perez in a way that makes you wonder why in the world they're separating. It's dishonest," said Schmidt.

"A bit more honesty would be appropriate. McLaren should say why his contract is not being renewed, and Perez should be allowed to say what he thinks about the late notice. If they're both just singing each other's praises, they treat us - the fans - like we're stupid," added Schmidt.

In fact, Perez acknowledged on Thursday that McLaren's late call could leave him without a seat in 2014, and perhaps also 2015.

"Probably I will leave formula one and find something else for a year or two," he told F1's official website.

Perez denied McLaren's call is related to his Mexican backing, but there is no denying that the driver market is being severely affected by commercial considerations ahead of the 2014 season.

The F1-departing Mark Webber on Thursday said it is an "unhealthy" situation for F1.

One example is Sahara Force India. Adrian Sutil has been hinting for a few weeks now that his 2014 contract is signed and sealed, although announced.

He said on Thursday: "It's good to have a contract, but if someone comes along with 30 million, then a contract doesn't have much value."

Ram is currently recalling 48,517 pickup trucks in Canada due to a steering issue.

On certain 2008-2012 Ram 2500 and 3500 4x4, Ram 3500 cab chassis, and 2008 Ram 1500 Mega Cab 4x4 vehicles, the left outer tie rod ball stud could fracture, potentially resulting in a loss of vehicle control and a crash.

Ram dealers will install a redesigned left outer tie rod assembly to fix the problem.

Source: Transport Canada

Dodge RAM 1500. (Photo: Dodge)

You might be surprised to see the badge on the front of this car, but trust me; this is most definitely a Kia, and a damn good one. Kudos to Kia for really stepping up their game and releasing products that are both well-designed and outfitted with quality materials -- oh, and fun to drive.

I'm truly impressed with the Kia Sorento SX. Sure, my tester was the top-of-the-line model, but even in base trim the amenities and engine this midsize SUV comes with are sure to please. Kia has come a long way over the years and the Sorento is proof of all the hard work and progress they've made. If you've not looked at Kia in a while, I highly recommend you do.


What is a Kia Sorento?
Only released in the 21st Century, the Kia Sorento is “new to the SUV game,” so to speak. First appearing in 2002, the first Sorento sported a traditional truck setup (body-on-frame). It was truly an SUV. Since then, and now well into its second generation, the Kia Sorento has morphed into the mid-size CUV we know today, redesigned as a crossover (car-based) as its competition is.

With three rows available and as many amenities as its German counterparts costing tens of thousands more, the Kia Sorento is a worthy consideration for any family in the market for a practical, affordable midsize CUV.

Only released in the 21st Century, the Kia Sorento is “new to the SUV game,” so to speak. (Photo: Daniel Pronovost)

2014 Kia Sorento SX Price and Specs
The beauty of the Kia Sorento (in my humble opinion) is the fact that even in base trim it comes nicely equipped with the creature comforts (heated front seats/mirrors, power door locks, Bluetooth, all-wheel drive, LED front positioning lights) for under $30k. Yes, read that again. Under $30,000 (taxes and delivery excluded).

Now, my 2014 Kia Sorento SX was the top-tier model, loaded to the gills with everything Kia has to offer including 19” wheels, aesthetic upgrades, panoramic sunroof, Infinity premium audio system, heated and cooled front seats, 8” touchscreen up front, and a Blindspot detection system (to name a few). With all those bits and bobs added on to an already good base product, my tester tipped the scales at a reasonable $40,595.

Should you want to add third-row seating, that price raises to $41,795. Again, totally worth everything this vehicle has to offer.

The beauty of the Kia Sorento (in my humble opinion) is the fact that even in base trim it comes nicely equipped with the creature comforts. (Photo: Daniel Pronovost)

Driving the 2014 Kia Sorento SX
I didn't expect the 2014 Kia Sorento SX to drive the way it did: This thing is quite fast! Equipped with a 3.3L V6 GDI engine, the Sorento pushes out 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, this midsize SUV can definitely go. The engine is quick to respond to throttle response with little to no lag.

The 2014 Sorento feels spritely and light on its wheels, with direct steering. The suspension is also pleasantly comfortable even over rougher patches of tarmac. It's still able to stick to corners with only minimal body roll.

The driving position in the 2014 Kia Sorento is also spot-on. Visibility is great thanks to the design of the cabin and windows, and the blind spot indicators help alleviate any midsize SUV fears when changing lanes or manoeuvring parking lots.

Equipped with a 3.3L V6 GDI engine, the Sorento pushes out 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Daniel Pronovost)

Inside and Out of the 2014 Kia Sorento SX
There's no denying the Kia Sorento's good looks from the outside. The CUV segment remains as competitive as ever as the three-rowed behemoths become ever-more fuel efficient and affordable. So, it often comes down to a looks and amenities game. In that case, the Sorento is bound to come out on top.

Decked out in chrome details with a futuristic design from nose to tail, the 2014 Kia Sorento has definitely come a long way over the years. What was once a boxy, non-descript SUV is now a modern, attractive accessory for any family in the market for a three-row vehicle.

Inside, the good looks continue and the amenities abound: Leather seating with faux wood trim, fully electric power-adjustable seats, as well as a heated steering wheel (absolute bliss in our cooler months), digital speedometer and an uber easy-to-use HMI touchscreen system are just a few of the many gadgets this CUV boasts.

Rear space is plentiful and the second row even reclines.

Inside, the good looks continue and the amenities abound. (Photo: Daniel Pronovost)

Comparing the 2014 Kia Sorento SX
I would say Kia has the market in terms of pricing; however, they have some serious competition in the Hyundai Santa Fe XL in terms of amenities, practicality and pricing. Sure, Acura has the MDX (for a premium price), and you could look to the Germans but you'll pay thousands more for the same kit.

From press release

Sebastien Ogier won four of today's six speed tests in the second and longest leg of Wales Rally GB to build a 20.1sec lead over team-mate Jari-Matti Latvala.

After a commanding win in the opening Hafren test by almost 10sec, the Frenchman was fastest on all three afternoon tests in a Volkswagen Polo R.

Thierry Neuville, second after the opening leg in a Ford Fiesta RS, could not live with the pair and is 62.6sec off the lead in third.

Sebastien Ogier, VW Polo R (Photo: VW)

“It was more slippery this afternoon than this morning and it was hard to stay on the driving line. But we used the lines quite well,” explained Ogier, who had the benefit of following Latvala in the tests and seeing his braking points.

Latvala made a cautious start but ended the morning by winning his favourite Myherin test. His confidence surged and a softer set-up on his Polo R encouraged him further.

“I really pushed hard and there wasn't much left to give. I found it hard at the beginning where it was very slippery but I got a good feeling as things went on. Maybe I just took too long to wake up,” said Latvala, who almost pushed too hard and was fortunate to escape a high-speed moment in the final stage.

Neuville followed his usual strategy of perfecting his pace notes in the morning loop, but admitted there was no more speed to find this afternoon.

“I did my best and I think I drove very well. But there was so little traction on the slippery stones,” explained the Belgian.

Qatar M-Sport Fiesta RS team-mates Mads Ostberg and Evgeny Novikov are split by just 3.7sec in fourth and fifth, but they are more than 90sec off the lead. Ostberg regretted altering his car's set-up this afternoon while Novikov lived with a daylong problem affecting the launch control at stage starts.

Andreas Mikkelsen is sixth in another Polo R, just 1.1sec behind Novikov, with Martin Prokop's Fiesta RS in seventh, more than three minutes adrift. Leading WRC 2 runners Elfyn Evans and Mark Higgins are eighth and tenth, with Dani Sordo sandwiched between them in ninth.

Sordo, saddled with a five minute penalty before last night's start, was fastest on the second stage and climbed 36 places in his Citroen DS3.

Robert Kubica rolled his DS3 out of seventh in the opening stage and Mikko Hirvonen compounded a disastrous rally for the factory Citroen squad by rolling his similar car out of fourth two stages later after a pace note error. Hirvonen will not restart tomorrow.

On November 15th, 1977, Ford built its 100 millionth vehicle in the U.S. at the Mahwah assembly plant in New Jersey. The milestone car was a 1978 Ford Fairmont Sedan, which replaced the outgoing Maverick.

The Fairmont was initially available in several body styles, with a choice of 4- to 8-cylinder engines. The most popular model turned out to be the Fairmont Sporty Coupe with its quadruple headlights. It was renamed Fairmont Futura Sport in 1979.

The Fairmont range ended four years later, just as the 1984 Ford Tempo made its debut.

Sources: Safran Arts and Wikipedia

Ford Fairmont 1978. (Photo: Ford)

From GMM

Two respected F1 figures have rounded on Sergio Perez's attitude, as it emerges the Mexican is fighting for his future.

With Perez dropped by McLaren after just one season, the British team's former long-time manager Jo Ramirez said the 23-year-old's big weakness is his "arrogance".

"The syndrome of becoming an F1 driver went to his head very fast," Ramirez, a former advisor to Perez and a fellow Mexican, told Cancha newspaper.

"Checo grew a lot as a driver during the last three years in F1, but unfortunately he didn't grow as a person at the same rate," he added.

Sergio Perez. (Photo: McLaren F1 Team)

Another well-connected figure, the respected correspondent for Brazilian newspaper O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper, agrees.

"The relationship between the Mexican and McLaren never took off," said journalist Livio Oricchio.

"Formula one is not just about commitment; it's more than that. It's interaction, working together, two sides committed to the same goals; winning and losing together. Perez is not the kind of man who does that," he said.

Oricchio said his sources not only at McLaren, but also at Perez's former team Sauber, confirm that Perez "has an arrogant attitude".

And that attitude, Livio Oricchio added, is disliked by many.

"I've interviewed him a few times, even this year," he explained. "He doesn't look in your eyes and wants it to be over. In his working groups it is no different.

"In summary, human relationships have so much to do with success in formula one. Without it, you go nowhere," said Oricchio.

From GMM

Lewis Hamilton will tackle the last two grands prix of the season with a new Mercedes chassis.

After a series of modest results for the 2008 world champion recently, the Brackley based team investigated Hamilton's problem and found a "large crack" in his chassis, Germany's Auto Motor und Sport reports.

"This might explain Hamilton's disappointing race results," said the correspondent Michael Schmidt.

Lewis Hamilton won the inaugural grand prix in Austin a year ago for McLaren, but on Thursday admitted he is unlikely to repeat that feat in 2013.

"Vettel has been half a minute in front in the last races," the Briton is quoted as saying, "so it's hard to imagine we're going to be in front of him suddenly.

"My plan is to qualify in front of him, then I can try my best to stay ahead of him in the race," added Hamilton.

Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes W04. (Photo: WRi2)

Given Hamilton's recent struggles, however, Nico Rosberg on Thursday said he was determined to chase down the 16 point deficit to his Mercedes teammate in the remaining two grands prix of 2013.

"It's very important to be ahead of Lewis in the end," the German is quoted by the SID news agency, "because your teammate is always your most important comparison.

"So I'd rather be in front than behind," Rosberg smiled.

In fact, with Kimi Raikkonen now out of action, Rosberg said he would also like to leapfrog the Finn in the drivers' standings, for third overall.

"Third is still mathematically possible," he said, "so that's the goal. The last two races were good, so I want to continue like that."

Like Lewis Hamilton, however, Nico Rosberg sees Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel as too dominant to challenge for another race win.

"Red Bull is just too fast in all respects," he said, "especially Sebastian. He's on another planet."

From GMM

Sauber on Thursday insisted it has paid an overdue electricity bill.

The Swiss business newspaper Handelszeitung reported this week that the canton of Zurich has filed a new EUR 44,000 claim against Sauber for the unpaid bill.

It was just the latest sign that Sauber's financial problems are still far from resolved, despite the supposed 'Russian rescue deal' involving potential 2014 driver Sergey Sirotkin.

Referring to the electricity bill, team boss Monisha Kaltenborn told Swiss radio SRF1: "The invoice was paid on Thursday morning in accordance with the payment schedule."

However, Handeslzeitung said the electricity bill was actually just one of a whopping 57 debt claims made against Sauber, totalling almost EUR 500,000.

Kaltenborn admitted Sauber is in a "challenging situation", but insisted the team is "on track" and going "step by step" towards a brighter future.

Nico Hulkenberg, Sauber C32. (Photo: WRi2)

She also said the earlier unpaid Nico Hulkenberg has received money recently.

"We talked about it with him and clarified the situation," said Kaltenborn. "A payment was made."

On November 20th, Subaru will unveil the Legacy Concept that foreshadows the sixth generation of its midsize sedan.

As 2014 marks the 25th anniversary of the Legacy, Subaru designers went in a sportier styling direction, shown by these renderings. The larger wheel arches house 21'' alloys, the hex-shaped grille is derived from the VIZIZ Concept, the front and rear lights boast a distinctive look, and the Ocean Silver Metallic paint gives the Legacy Concept a striking appearance.

Subaru also promises plenty of room to carry four passengers, as well as a focus on technology.

No technical specs have been released so far. Come back next week to learn more about the Subaru Legacy Concept.

Photo: Subaru

From press release

ABT Sportsline, led by Team Principal Hans-Jürgen Abt, has today reached an agreement that will see it become the seventh team and the only German outfit to enter the new FIA Formula E Championship - competing under the banner ‘Audi Sport ABT Formula E Team'.

The outfit, from Germany's Allgäu region, will race under the name of Audi Sport ABT Formula E Team, based on the name used in its successful commitment as an Audi factory team in the popular international touring car series DTM.

Photo: FIA Formula E

Head of Audi Motorsport Dr Wolfgang Ullrich commented: “We've been watching this new project of the FIA with great interest and are delighted that ABT Sportsline as one of our close and long-standing partners will be involved right from the beginning. We're keeping our fingers crossed for the squad on tackling this new challenge and are planning to support its commitment with drivers from our factory line-up if required.”

The agreement was signed by Hans-Jürgen Abt and Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E Holdings, in Kempten, Germany. Audi Sport ABT Formula E Team will now be put forward to the FIA for final approval as the seventh outfit to enter the new global electric race series. They join IndyCar outfits Andretti Autosport and Dragon Racing, Asia's China Racing and Super Aguri and fellow European squads Drayson Racing and e.dams.

With five titles to its credit in the DTM alone ABT Sportsline is one of the most successful German teams, which has achieved victories and titles in GT and endurance racing as well. The commitment in Formula racing now also marks a return to the outfit's early days. At the beginning of the 1990s, ABT scored its initial successes in Formel ADAC and Formula Three. One of the drivers back then was the subsequent Formula One and DTM star Ralf Schumacher.

A limited edition of the Fiat 500 that celebrates the 57th anniversary of the original 1957 "Nuova" Cinquecento (New 500) will be launched in the U.S. next spring.

The ''1957 Edition'' is based on the Fiat 500L. It will be available in three classic colours including Bianco (white), Verde Chiaro (light green), or exclusive Celeste (celestial blue) paired with a signature Bianco painted roof and mirror caps.

The Fiat 500 ''1957 Edition'' 2014. (Photo: Fiat)

The Fiat 500 ''1957 Edition'' also features an exclusive 16'' vintage wheel design with a wide chromed lip, body-coloured accent, and large centre cap with historic "FIAT" emblem. Inside is is an Avorio (ivory) interior environment contrasted by premium Marrone (brown) leather seats. For added contrast, Grigio (grey) door panels feature a unique Avorio inner panel, while Marrone door armrests and shift boot (with manual transmission) are colour-keyed to the leather seats.

No word yet on Canadian availability.

Red Bull Racing's Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber dominated Friday's second free practice session for the United States Grand Prix on Friday au Circuit of the Americas.

However, it was Ferrari's Fernando Alonso who emerged fastest in the shortened first free practice session.

First fog and then problems with the trackside medical helicopter were to blame, causing a 40-minute delay. The cars took to the track for just 15 minutes before the session was red flagged, this time as a replacement helicopter was found. Eventually, the session resumed for 45 minutes.

Fernando Alonso, Ferrari (Photo: René Fagnan)

Alonso set the fastest time in 1m38.343, beating the surprising Jenson Button in a McLaren by 0.028s.

The Spaniard two-time world champion was sporting visible strapping during the session, a consequence of his back injury he suffered in Abu Dhabi.

Jenson Button, McLaren (Photo: René Fagnan)

Valtteri Bottas of Williams was third fastest ahead of Esteban Gutierrez in a Sauber, with Mercedes AMG pair Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton fifth and sixth.

Felipe Massa (Ferrari), Mark Webber (Red Bull), Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber) and Pastor Maldonado (Williams) completed the top 10.

Kimi Raikkonen's replacement au Lotus, Heikki Kovalainen ranked 13th.

Next year's Toro Rosso driver, Russian Daniil Kvyat was 17th, one spot in front of Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull Racing who ran with a heavy fuel load.

Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull Racing (Photo: René Fagnan)

American driver Alexander Rossi was 19th in the faster of the two Caterhams.

However, Button was hit with a three-place grid penalty for overtaking under red flag conditions during practice.

Red Bull Racing returns to the front
It was sunny and warm for FP2, and Sebastian Vettel set a time of 1m37.305 on medium Pirelli tires.

His teammate Mark Webber ranked second in front of the two Mercedes of Rosberg and Hamilton.

Heikki Kovalainen, Lotus (Photo: René Fagnan)

The surprise of the day came undoubtedly from F1 race returnee and Lotus new driver, Heikki Kovalainen who was 5th quickest. The Finn quickly adapted to the Lotus E21 despite not having tested it at all beforehand. He outpaced his teammate Romain Grosjean who classified 8th.

Sauber had its drivers, Esteban Gutierrez and Nico Hulkenberg in 6th and 7th places, respectively.

Button was 9th in the McLaren, one place in front of Alonso.

Mac Chilton spun his Marussia due to brake problems. The marshals took a very long time to recover the car and take it out of the circuit, causing a lengthy localised yellow.

Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes AMG (Photo: René Fagnan)

US Grand Prix, Austin, Friday 1st practice session*:
1 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari F138) - 1'38"343 - 16 laps
2 - Jenson Button (McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes) - 1'38"371 - 25
3 - Valtteri Bottas (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'38"388 - 17
4 - Esteban Gutierrez (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'38"532 - 18
5 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes W04) - 1'38"657 - 21
6 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes W04) - 1'38"979 - 21
7 - Felipe Massa (Ferrari F138) - 1'39"005 - 17
8 - Mark Webber (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'39"083 - 17
9 - Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'39"158 - 17
10 - Pastor Maldonado (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'39"200 - 15
11 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'39"238 - 13
12 - Sergio Perez (McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes) - 1'39"256 - 17
13 - Heikki Kovalainen (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'39"487 - 18
14 - Adrian Sutil (Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'39"699 - 15
15 - Paul Di Resta (Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'39"836 - 15
16 - Daniel Ricciardo (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'39"863 - 19
17 - Daniil Kvyat (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'40"065 - 20
18 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'40"662 - 21
19 - Alexander Rossi (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'41"399 - 21
20 - Max Chilton (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'41"605 - 19
21 - Charles Pic (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'42"054 - 19
22 - Rodolfo Gonzalez (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'43"716 - 17

US Grand Prix, Austin, Friday 2nd practice session*:
1 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'37"305 - 35 laps
2 - Mark Webber (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'37"420 - 37
3 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes W04) - 1'37"785 - 38
4 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes W04) - 1'37"958 - 38
5 - Heikki Kovalainen (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'38"073 - 41
6 - Esteban Gutierrez (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'38"229 - 40
7 - Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'38"254 - 40
8 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'38"255 - 33
9 - Jenson Button (McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes) - 1'38"269 - 34
10 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari F138) - 1'38"461 - 33
11 - Adrian Sutil (Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'38"719 - 31
12 - Felipe Massa (Ferrari F138) - 1'38"938 - 37
13 - Sergio Perez (McLaren MP4-28-Mercedes) - 1'38"941 - 31
14 - Daniel Ricciardo (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'39"246 - 28
15 - Paul Di Resta (Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'39"410 - 34
16 - Valtteri Bottas (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'39"512 - 37
17 - Jean-Eric Vergne (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'39"579 - 36
18 - Pastor Maldonado (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'39"784 - 33
19 - Charles Pic (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'40"376 - 39
20 - Giedo Van der Garde (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'40"563 - 35
21 - Max Chilton (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'46"226 - 31
22 - Jules Bianchi (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'47"009 - 20
*Unofficial timing

From GMM

Fernando Alonso on Thursday got the all-clear to race in Austin.

The Spaniard has had several medical checks since the Abu Dhabi grand prix, where a violent ride over the kerbs left him with back pain.

He got the all-clear from his own doctors in Spain earlier this week, but also needed the official green light from the FIA ahead of the US grand prix.

So on Thursday, whilst skipping his media duties at the Austin circuit, he stopped in at the medical centre for tests.

The Ferrari driver gave the waiting reporters a 'thumbs-up' when he walked out of the doors and back into his car for the ride back to the hotel.

"Happy to have the 'ok' from doctors and race this weekend," he told his Twitter followers. "Last day to recover and do my best to help the team!"

Ferrari confirmed that Alonso's FIA tests on Thursday "all proved positive".

"However, as he is not yet in perfect shape, the team decided he should have a further day's rest today (Thursday) so as to help his recovery as much as possible," the Italian team added.

Fernando Alonso, Ferrari. (Photo: WRi2)

The correspondent for the Spanish sports newspaper AS, Manuel Franco, said Alonso is still coping with pain and dizziness, but is "improving day by day".

Had Fernando Alonso needed to sit out Austin, the most likely candidate to replace him would have been Marussia's Jules Bianchi.

"I am part of the Ferrari academy," the Frenchman told RMC Sport, "so I think that if they have a (driver) problem, they can call me.

"It's a good thing that Ferrari thought of me," added Bianchi.

From press release

Sebastien Ogier won two of Thursday's three stages to lead Wales Rally GB by 3.2sec from Thierry Neuville as cars returned to the rally base in Deeside after a short and sharp opening leg.

Following the start in Conwy, Ogier stamped his authority on the rally by winning the Gwydyr and Penmachno tests in his Volkswagen Polo R. However, Neuville hit back in Clocaenog to post fastest time in his Ford Fiesta RS.

Heavy rain and strong winds on Thursday morning brought testing conditions in qualifying but Ogier was fastest. The Frenchman, wary of just how slippery the gravel tracks in the north Wales forests would be from first in the start order, opted to start second and it paid dividends.

Sebastien Ogier, Volkswagen Polo-R WRC. (Photo: WRC)

Neuville flirted with disaster in the opening stage when he slid into a ditch and then hit a huge rock in the second stage which flung his car into the air.

Jari-Matti Latvala was brave enough to opt for first in the running order in his Polo R. The Finn was second fastest in both opening stages but dropped 3.4sec with third fastest in Clocaenog and ended the night 5.2sec behind his team-mate in third.

Mikko Hirvonen is fourth in a Citroen DS3, 16.2sec off the lead. The Finn twice slid wide in the opening test and admitted the lack of a pre-event test hadn't helped his cause. “The car feels OK, but it could be better, but I'm not sure which way to go with any changes,” he said.

Despite struggling with gearchange issues, Mads Ostberg is fifth in a Fiesta RS and the Norwegian lies 3.1sec ahead of fellow countryman Andreas Mikkelsen. Strong times from Mikkelsen in the first and last stages were offset by a poor second test when he couldn't absorb all the detail from his pace notes.

Robert Kubica is seventh on his World Rally Car debut, the Pole opting for caution as he comes to terms with a new car, a new co-driver, pace notes in Italian and his first time on slippery gravel stages in the dark.

Robert Kubica rolled his Citroën DS3 WRC out on Friday in the ES4 of Rally Wales Great-Britain, the pole and his codriver being reported inunjured.

The Pole, who was making his debuts aboard a WRC car, was standing in seventh position following the three special stages helded on Thursday evening. The former F1 driver and his new co-driver Michele Ferrara went off the road in ES4, in the very first special stage of the day.

Although both men escaped unhurt from the accident, the car was too badly damaged to continue the day. Citroën still did not announced wether Kubica will be at the start of Saturday's stages.

Photo: Twitter

Former Lotus Formula 1 driver, Kimi Raikkonen underwent back surgery.

The surgery was performed yesterday at The University Hospital of Strasbourg. Lotus F1 Team is happy to report that the operation was totally successful, according to Professor Afshin Gangi.

Raikkonen will now rest for a few days and he will start his recovery process as early as next week. Everyone at the track and at Enstone wishes him a quick recovery.

Fellow countryman Heikki Kovalainen is driving the Lotus E21 in the final two races of the 2013 season.

Heikki Kovalainen and Eric Boullier. (Photo: Lotus F1 Team)

Subaru and Toyota are in talks to halt production of the Toyota Camry sedan at Subaru's Indiana assembly plant, likely timed to the introduction of the nameplate's next generation.

Jaguar ranks first among luxury brands and Mini topped all nonluxury brands in an annual survey of customer satisfaction with the dealership sales experience, an annual survey released today found.