Auto News 5

Oil and Filter Replacement
Hybrid-vehicle powertrains are usually comprised of a combustion engine, and one or more electric motors. While electric motors require little or no maintenance, the same logic does not apply to the combustion engine. Hybrid or not, these engines require periodic replacement of both oil and filters.

Highway Use
If you spend a lot of time cruising down highways, especially in winter, the combustion engine is inevitably almost always in service, unless you're decelerating, driving downhill or stopping. As the combustion engine is doing most of the grunt work, you'll need to perform regularly scheduled maintenance, including engine oil and filter replacement. In the case of the Toyota Prius, the manufacturer recommends performing this service at 8,000km intervals.

City Driving
On the flipside, if most of your driving is of the city variety, chances are the electric motor carries the brunt of the load. City driving also implies a lot of braking, which through the regenerative braking system of your hybrid vehicle keeps you battery charged, which in turn allows you to use the electric motors even longer. In this scenario, the combustion engine is rarely solicited, will never overheat, and therefore extend service intervals, such as oil and filter changes, into the 15,000km or 12-month threshold.

Photo: Toyota

Testing for Google's autonomous vehicles in Nevada and California has shown that they're smoother and safer than human drivers.

Two separate studies of data from hundreds of thousands of miles indicate that Google's cars accelerated and braked significantly more sharply when a person was behind the wheel. The driverless cars also maintain a safer distance from the vehicle ahead.

Google has been testing its autonomous vehicle technology on public roads since 2010, always with a human in the driver's seat who can take over if necessary.

Source: MIT Technology Review

The 2015 Audi A3 Sedan will go on sale across Canada next April starting at $31,100, the company announced.

This entry-level model comes with numerous standard features such as a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and MMI technology (a segment first). Audi active lane assist, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system are also available.

The 2015 Audi A3 Sedan will be joined later in 2014 by the recently announced Audi A3 Cabriolet, A3 TDI clean diesel, the high-performance S3 Sedan, and in early 2015, the A3 Sportback e-tron plug-in hybrid. Pricing for those will be announced at a later date.

Equipped with a 6-speed S tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, the 2015 Audi A3 Sedan offers a choice of four engines including:
1.8 TFSI;
2.0 TFSI;
2.0 TDI clean diesel;
High-output 2.0 TFSI (S3).

Source: Audi Canada

Photo: Audi

Lotus F1 Team has confirmed Tuesday that several technical issued has hit both Kimi Raikkonen's and Romain Grosjean's E21s during the Indian Grand Prix last Sunday.

“We tried something different with a one stop strategy and it didn't work. I had a brake problem for the entire race and they were overheating, and this got worse in traffic so I couldn't overtake,” said Raikkonen in a team press release.

It also appeared that Grosjean's Renault engine was not at its best, as the Frenchman had to nurse his car to the finish.

“We're working closely with Renault Sport. The issue seems to be a repeat of the one we faced in Singapore where a leak in the pneumatic system caused a loss of air pressure,” said Alan Permane.

“Fortunately, we know exactly what we have to do to fix it and Romain's engine has gone through the correction process put in place after Singapore. Our engine partner is also checking - and double checking - every single race engine at Abu Dhabi to ensure that the same problem does not reappear,” he added.

Photo: WRi2

Team boss Eric Boullier said that the words used in the infamous radio conversations were now a thing of the past.

“Romain was two seconds a lap faster than Kimi at that time, so it was not even a team order. By asking Kimi to let Romain pass, we just made the obvious choice, as Felipe [Massa] could have stolen our podium,” said Boullier.

“With hindsight, this radio message could have been sent in a less emotional way. There was a lot of tension, a lot of potential technical problems, and some of the words that flew around were simply not appropriate. I know that quite a few people were surprised and I can only apologise for that on behalf of the team. It won't happen again.”

In an effort to promote its new CR-V 1.6 Diesel in Europe, Honda came up with this mind-boggling advertisement that uses various optical illusions.

Unfortunately, the Honda CR-V 1.6 Diesel won't be available in Canada.

Everybody -- and I mean everybody -- wants to live comfortably. A roof over our heads, nice clothes, decent cars and enough disposable income to eat out a few times a week. Of these, the majority would like to have that much more but, sadly, Sunseeker yacht and Armani dreams are out of our grasps.

Or are they?

What we common folk really desire is the lifestyle, the feeling that comes with having nice things. Nice things are attainable, but need not necessarily be new. It is for this very reason that Porsche has an “Approved” program.

In their infinite wisdom, Porsche came up (as have other carmakers) with a factory-backed package where used cars are inspected and given a seal of “approval” as a certified used purchase with a Porsche warranty and 24-hour roadside assistance.

Photo: Olivier Delorme

2010 Porsche 911 Targa 4S
What do all used cars have in common? They're far more affordable than a new car. It is with this in mind that Porsche Canada put a 2010 997 911 Targa 4S on their press fleet. This Arctic silver 6-speed unit travelled just under 29,000km, but by the looks of it, could have only covered 29.

Back in 2010, this 911 sported a sticker price of just over $143,500 with accessories such as 19” Turbo wheels and the Sport Chrono Package Plus. This same car can now be had for $92,500. This is a 35% price drop that no one needs to know about. All your neighbours will know is that you now own a Porsche.

This may come as a surprise, but Porsche cars are actually fairly reliable (by sports and exotic car standards) and reasonably economical. No word of a lie.

The question that begs an answer is: Does a “gently used Porsche” drive as it should?

In short, yes. The long of it is that I so enjoyed the 3-year-old 911 that I'd never felt like I wanted to own one more. This 911 was every bit as quick, sharp, and infinitely rewarding as would be a new example. The 3.8L flat-6's 385 horsepower were all accounted for and the powerful brakes felt as good as any brand spanking new Porsche I've ever tested.

This car was inspected, as they all are, by Porsche technicians. They follow stringent guidelines to make certain that each 911, Cayman, Boxster, and the like is up to snuff and worthy of being a Porsche Approved Certified Pre-owned car. This one undoubtedly was.

The car was not perfect: One small trim piece surrounding the centre console was loose. Then again, I've had week-long test drives with very new cars from other makes that had many quality control issues.

Porsche holds a special place in the automotive world and regardless of which generation or vintage you own or drive (save perhaps for the 996...), you're a winner. To therefore place any Porsche in your driveway is to be part of a special group. To belong is to be part of and to embrace the lifestyle.

2010 Porsche 911 Targa 4S. (Photo: Olivier Delorme)

Porsche Bike S
On that subject, Porsche has more to offer the budding fan of the brand. As a cycling enthusiast, you may be in the market for a new bicycle. Should this be the case, Porsche has you covered.

This time, new is the way to go. A $5,000 investment gets you a Porsche Bike S made of hydroformed aluminum with a fork fashioned in carbon. A Shimano Alfine 11-speed hub gear system handles forward momentum with the help of a low-wear geared belt drive. Hydraulic disc brakes round out the mechanicals.

As this is a Porsche, its inherent quality is immediately obvious. The same goes for riding the Bike S. The smooth rolling DT Swiss wheel with Schwalbe Marathon Supreme tires and belt drive are its best features. The whole of the way it operates is premium Porsche.

Note for the buttock sensitive: The Fizik Tundra seat is especially short on padding. Should you plan to ride quite a bit, consider the purchase of padded biking shorts.

If your budget permits, a Bike RS is also available. For a little more than $9,000, a lightweight frame with components all made of carbon along with Shimano XTR equipment with 20 speeds can be yours.

Porsche Design Bike S. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

The Porsche lifestyle
Yes, it can be yours as the price is right. Life is too short not to enjoy the finer things. With these two sets of wheels, life can be grand indeed!

From GMM

Lotus has apologised after an expletive-laden exchange on the radio with Kimi Raikkonen during the Indian grand prix.

When the Finn was struggling for pace but duelling with his much-faster teammate Romain Grosjean, chief engineer Alan Permane told Raikkonen in no uncertain terms: "Get out of the f***ing way!"

Kimi Raikkonen replied: "Don't f***ing shout at me."

It was said that Permane received death threats against himself and his family in the wake of the radio message, ostensibly from angry Raikkonen fans.

F1 Race Reviews wrote: "Upon further investigation there has so far not been found a single tweet containing death threats to Permane or his family. What was found was some nutcase that repeatedly tweeted “F*** your family” to Permane."

"With hindsight," team boss Eric Boullier said, "this radio message could have been sent in a less emotional way.

"I know that quite a few people were surprised and I can only apologise for that on behalf of the team. It won't happen again," he added.

Kimi Raikkonen, Lotus E21. (Photo: WRi2)

From GMM

Dietrich Mateschitz has likened Fernando Alonso to legendary boxer Muhammad Ali.

The Red Bull magnate is referring to the fact that many regarded Ali as the master of trying to win with the help of 'psychological warfare'.

Ferrari driver Alonso's key psychological weapon in the Red Bull era might have been his constant suggestion that arch rival Sebastian Vettel wins because his car is superior.

"Like Muhammad Ali, Alonso's media statements are very deliberate," billionaire Mateschitz told Kronen Zeitung newspaper.

"He is the worst of all at the psychological warfare," he added.

Fernando Alonso detailing the Red Bull RB9. (Photo: WRi2)

Mateschitz's right hand man, Dr Helmut Marko, thinks Vettel's struggle for popularity this year - including numerous bouts of podium booing - is partly due to the psychological war.

"People like Fernando Alonso say Sebastian is not the best driver, he only has the best car," the Austrian told Der Spiegel.

"These are targeted political statements," Marko insisted.

However, he insists that there is no reason for Vettel to jump ship to another team, after four consecutive championship triumphs in a Red Bull.

"He will only change teams if we no longer build him a competitive car," said Helmut Marko.

"Why would he go to Ferrari or Mercedes now, especially since he would have Alonso or Hamilton as his teammate?

"I see no alternative for him at the moment other than us," added Marko.

"Ayrton Senna won all of his titles with McLaren, he never drove for Ferrari, but he didn't have an image problem because of it.

"Maybe it's cooler to win for Ferrari, but that's not easy at the moment," he insisted.

Meanwhile, Mateschitz - who watched Vettel secure his fourth title in India from the comfort of his Salzburg lounge room - admitted the moment was satisfying if not euphoric.

"Because we expected it, it was like celebrating Christmas over a week," he smiled. "It's not quite as exciting, but the joy is there every time."

In all honesty, the worst thing this particular convertible has going for it is the fact that it carries the “Beetle” name. Why? Because of the stereotypes that go along with driving a Beetle then add “convertible” to the mix and, well, very few men are going to step up and purchase one.

Despite Volkswagen attempts at making the Beetle more masculine through exterior design cues, I'm not sure any amount of redesign will change the feminine qualities of the Beetle Convertible -- but I sure wasn't bothered by its girliness.


What is a Volkswagen Beetle Convertible?
Essentially, the Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is a Beetle without a top. Pretty simple, really. This latest generation of Beetle was redesigned for 2011. A follow-up to the New Beetle (introduced in 1997), this Volkswagen Bug offers up more masculine cues and design language, as well as a bit more of a return to the original Beetle.

The Convertible variant of the new generation of Volkswagen Beetle wasn't released until 2013 alongside the coupe.

Essentially, the Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is a Beetle without a top. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Price and Specs
The Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is available in two trims, Comfortline and Highline. My particular tester (dressed to the nines) was the Highline trim that ensured the Tornado Red/Nutria Beige Roof colour combo and starts at $31,740. After adding a Technology package to the mix (which adds in the must-hear Fender audio system as well as navigation and a few other goodies) my tester's final tally came to $33,030.

Along with a topless ride, you get VW's 2.5L inline 5-cylinder engine - which is already being replaced with the new 1.8L I recently tested. The engine is good for 170 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque, and is handled via a 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic sport mode -- though no paddle shifters are available.

The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet's top drops in just 10 seconds, which is pretty fast. With the roof folded you lose no trunk space and rear visibility is still accessible (unlike another cabriolet I recently drove...)

Along with a topless ride, you get VW's 2.5L inline 5-cylinder engine - which is already being replaced with the new 1.8L I recently tested. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
This drop-top is a blast to drive. Thankfully, the sun decided to show for a few days while I was behind the wheel so I was able to fully enjoy the Beetle Convertible's fun-in-the-sun nature.

I'm happy to report that the new 1.8L engine in the Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is just as enjoyable to drive as the 2.5L. Both are peppy and responsive, but let's focus on the 2.5L. The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is happy to rev high when pushed, holding out on shifts when needed. However, around town it is as calm and docile as you'd want it to be, with seamless gear changes.

I did wish for paddle shifters. I dislike shift-lever gear changes in automatic cars, so didn't use it at all. However, Volkswagen's 6-speed transmission was well-behaved enough that it was never confused about gear selection, no matter what the situation.

Handling in the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is also quite good. Compared to the hard-top variant of the Bug, the Convertible loses a bit of its overall stiffness, but not enough to cause concern or even be noticeable, really. The vehicle feels planted and good, even when pushed.

The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible is happy to rev high when pushed, holding out on shifts when needed. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
There's no denying the Beetle went through a more macho press this time around. While still quite “bubbly” to look at, the more aggressive front face and angular rear suggest a more manly nature, and make the car look a bit speedier, too.

Maintaining the shape and silhouette of a vehicle is hard when you cut the top off, but Volkswagen managed quite well with the 2013 Beetle Convertible. Even topless, the curve of the roof is “visible” and the vehicle loses not an ounce of character.

The 17” alloy wheels, as well as various chrome accents and the sporty rear spoiler (standard on either trim level) add to the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible's personality and more modern appeal. I quite liked the red/beige colour combination, as well as the red inserts throughout the cabin (which some thought was a bit much).

Top up or down there's quite a bit of space in the cabin of the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, even the backseat can be comfortable for an adult (and a baby seat fit without trouble). My only gripe is with the trunk, which isn't wide or deep enough to fit even an umbrella stroller.

I quite liked the red/beige colour combination, as well as the red inserts throughout the cabin (which some thought was a bit much). (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
The closest competition that immediately comes to mind is the MINI Cooper Convertible. However, the MINI drives much better than the Beetle. You could also cross-shop with a Mustang Convertible, which offers a different kind of character and style behind the wheel, and a bit more space in the back as well.

From GMM

Carlos Sainz jr insists he is "very satisfied" despite missing out on the vacant seat at Toro Rosso for 2014.

Like Antonio Felix da Costa and Daniil Kvyat, fellow Red Bull junior and Spaniard Sainz was in the running to move into formula one to replace Daniel Ricciardo.

Daniil Kvyat, who like Sainz is 19, got the job.

"I knew that the possibility (of securing the Toro Rosso seat) existed," Sainz, whose father and namesake is the world rally legend, is quoted by EFE news agency. "But I was sure that it would be da Costa, although in the end it was Daniil Kvyat."

Carlos Sainz Jr. (Photo: WRi2)

Like Kvyat, Sainz raced in the third-tier GP3 series in 2013, and in some Formula Renault 3.5 series races.

"I am very satisfied with running in the (Renault) world series next year," Carlos Sainz jr insisted.

But he also admitted there is the "possibility of being the third driver" for Toro Rosso "in some races" next year.

"It depends on many things and they have not confirmed anything," Sainz said, "but it would be another step for me."

Meanwhile, Sainz congratulated Sebastian Vettel for his fourth title win, but admitted that his countryman Fernando Alonso, racing for Red Bull's arch rival Ferrari, is his idol.

"Fernando knows he is the best driver on the grid; everyone considers him to be the best and nothing changes that," he said.

"But in formula one it depends not only on you but on many factors, the main one being the car. Without a winning team, it's hard to win," added Sainz.

"Alonso shouldn't be frustrated, because he has the respect of all the drivers and world motor sport," he said.

Teenaged Justin Pritchard was hopelessly in love with the Dodge Viper GTS, its obnoxious stripes, its superhero reputation, and its hopelessly curvaceous body.

When I was 14, I had a paper route. While walking it, I'd pass the time contemplating paint and stripe colour combos I'd choose for my Viper, of endlessly slamming gears at full throttle, and (when nobody was nearby) frequently imitating the burble-y exhaust note I heard the Viper make on TV.

Not so long ago, I decided to live my childhood dream and buy a 2000 Viper GTS, in black and silver. The boss asked for a review of this rarely seen piece of rolling shock-and-awe American firepower. I couldn't say no.


What is a Dodge Viper GTS?
The Dodge Viper GTS is a heat-spewing 8.0L V10 engine to which are attached some seats, some body panels, an instrument cluster, and a windshield. Despite the futuristic concept-car looks, this vehicle was scarcely more technologically advanced than a fireplace. The engine used pushrods. There were no antilock brakes. Cruise control? Traction assist? Forget it.

Two seats, gobs of power, and no BS? Very yes.

Photo: Justin Pritchard

2000 Viper GTS Specs
The Viper announces itself at startup with a deep, bellowing snarl that settles into a throbbing, building, piercing warble. My parents know all about the massive 8.0L pushrod V10 responsible for that sound, the steamroller tires and the 450 Porsche-smashing horsepower largely because I never shut up about them. It's all backed by nearly 500 lb-ft of torque delivered to the 335-series rear tires via a Tremec manual transmission. It's a 6-speed, though 6th is too tall to use anywhere under about 115 km/h.

Tall gear ratios, and an even taller final drive, ensure immense pulling power through each gear. The engine redlines by 6,000 rpm while making a noise that makes Prius owners cry. There are no fuel-saving engineering implements, no driver-assist systems, and no features.

Acceleration is instant and brutal, with 0-100km/hr available in 4 seconds en route to a top speed approaching 200 mph.

Photo: Justin Pritchard

Driving the 2000 Dodge Viper GTS
Entry and exit are tight and require some awkward bending thanks to the radical door shape. The exhaust is routed through the door sills, which means they can (and will) burn you if you're not careful. Parking is a chore; the hood is too long, you can't see out the back, the turning circle is confusingly large, and if anyone's honking at you to stop reversing, you won't hear them over the exhaust.

Seats only slide forward and back, but don't recline. The pedals are adjustable, though they sit a few inches too far to the left, requiring a strange angling of your legs and feet. Heat generated by the big V10 floods into the footwells on long drives too, in an attempt to melt your loafers.

The highway ride is quite comfortable in spite of this, and the GTS is nicely sprung. It cruises along, even over moderately rough surfaces, with a taut but comfortable demeanor. Steering is light at speed, and with battleship torque output, downshifting to pass is always optional.

Full throttle in any gear causes pure, adrenaline-laced euphoria, threatening to break the tires loose without notice. The noise? At full throttle, it's similar to the automatic gunfire in the climax of a war movie. Lift the throttle, and the GTS emits a deep, lusty burble that calls off-shore speedboats with through-hull exhaust to mind.

The brakes have a decent feel and do an admirable job of stopping the Viper in a jiff -- even after repeated laps of a road course. Steering is light and numb, but overall grip is tremendous. Driven hard on a track, you've got to think a step or two ahead of the Viper to balance its torque output with available traction, and the car gives you nothing in terms of support. But, get it right, and you'll be grinning like a 10-year-old riding on the back of Tyrannosaurus.

Photo: Justin Pritchard

Inside and Out of the 2000 Dodge Viper GTS
In any measure related to performance car coolness, the Viper GTS is off the charts. Even 13 years later, its performance figures are massive. The look still gathers drooling crowds wherever it goes, and the recognition and exclusivity are virtually second to none. The thrilling acceleration, noise, grip, and presence of this machine are priceless.

In any measure of practicality or sensibility, the Viper is pretty awful. Storage on board and in the trunk is dismal. There's no rear seat. On lengthy highway trips, the drone from the engine and slight but constant wash of exhaust fumes into the cabin wear away at comfort. Plus, fuel mileage lands around 24L /100km in the city if you're having any fun with it.

The Gist?
When it comes to performance, noise, and cool factor, there's nothing quite this extreme on the affordable side of the used-car spectrum. The Viper isn't for everyone. It isn't even, really, for most. It's an exhausting car to drive in many ways, but that's a small price to pay for those after one of the most instantly recognizable and lusted-after examples of four-wheeled American badassness ever built.

From GMM

Sebastian Vettel halted his title-winning party in India to help his mechanics pack up the Red Bull garage, it has emerged.

Auto Motor und Sport correspondent Tobias Gruner said he stopped by the team's garage in the hours after the race to congratulate his countryman.

"Unfortunately I can't shake your hand," Vettel reportedly told Gruner, "because mine are completely dirty!"

Bild newspaper said Vettel decided to help his colleagues so that they would have more time to join him at the celebratory party, held at the Radisson hotel.

A Red Bull mechanic told the Independent newspaper: "I really wish people could see this side of the guy."

Photo: WRi2

Undoubtedly, however, Vettel's struggle for popularity is not just about his personality. Some question whether he really does stack up against F1's legends like Schumacher, Fangio, Prost and Senna.

Asked if the 26-year-old has only won four titles because Adrian Newey outpaces the rest of the field, Bernie Ecclestone answered: "I don't think so.

"Actually, if anything it's the opposite. Although it's undeniable that the machine has a big role in formula one," he is quoted by Repubblica newspaper.

Sebastien Buemi, Red Bull's reserve driver, told Brazil's O Estado de S.Paulo that Vettel works hard for his success.

"When he wins a race, the next day he's already at the factory, working on the simulator for the next race," said the Swiss. "It's not true that he wins just because he has a great car. If the image of the car was the one Mark (Webber) gave it, it definitely wouldn't be the same."

Vettel's former technical boss at Toro Rosso, Giorgio Ascanelli, said: "Sebastian reminds me of Ayrton (Senna)." In the 80s, the Italian was the great Senna's race engineer.

"He (Vettel) lives to be a driver. Like Senna, he also hates to lose. He was designed to win. Any other outcome means nothing," Ascanelli added.

Red Bull's Dr Helmut Marko told Der Spiegel: "In Formula BMW, Sebastian won 18 of the 20 races, but the only thing he thought about was why he didn't win those two races."

Photo: WRi2

Vettel's Indian grand prix victory on Sunday was his fifth on the trot, his tenth of the season, and the 36th in his F1 career.

Hans-Joachim Stuck, a German motor racing legend, thinks Vettel can beat Michael Schumacher's all-time record of 91 wins.

"I think he can get 15 titles as well. Why not?" Stuck told Austrian Servus TV. "He is still incredibly young, so it's easily possible."

Meanwhile, Blick newspaper reports that although Vettel was scheduled to touch down in Zurich early on Monday, the only F1 driver on the flight from Delhi was in fact his friend Kimi Raikkonen.

Chrysler Group amended its initial public offering registration statement on Monday, adding details and altering some characterizations.

Tesla Motors said a customer was unhurt in a crash and fire this month in Mexico in which a Model S struck a concrete barrier.

Federal regulators opened an investigation of the 79,252 Jeep Liberty SUVs from the 2012 model year on Oct. 21 following two reports of door fires.

Nissan has released pricing for the Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid range for the 2014 model year.

Fiat Group, Chrysler Group's Italian parent company, has acquired the remaining half of VM Motori S.p.A. from General Motors for 34.1 million euros ($47.1 million).

Japanese brands continue to dominate the Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability rankings, while some European brands gained and Ford Motor Co.

Audi revealed its 700-hp Sport Quattro concept at the

Japanese brands continue to dominate the Consumer Reports Annual Auto Reliability rankings, while some European brands gained and Ford continued to rank near the bottom of the industry.