Auto News 5

General Motors Vice Chairman Steve Girsky is upbeat about the future of Opel, which has kept a steady market share in Europe so far this year after 15 years of falls.

Mercedes-Benz has added a host of new technological and comfort features to the S class to help its flagship remain the world's top-selling luxury sedan.

The Opel Monza concept provides a glimpse into the future of Buick and Opel design, says General Motors global design chief Ed Welburn.

VW denied that the company may miss its profit goals because of slower growth and higher-than-expected costs for the ramp up of its MQB architecture.

Infiniti's Q30 entry-level luxury compact concept is the first step toward adding five vehicles that will give the brand a suitable lineup for global markets by 2020.

From GMM

Romain Grosjean has admitted he is looking forward to being the 'number 1' at Lotus next year.

With Kimi Raikkonen heading to Ferrari, the Enstone based team will almost certainly keep the improving Frenchman Grosjean on board for 2014, when continuity will be important for the huge change of regulations.

"If I become world champion then I need to be number 1," Grosjean told the British broadcaster Sky.

"Every time I've been team leader, whether it be in Formula 3 or GP2, it's a good situation. But you have to create it," he admitted.

Interestingly, one of the favourites to replace Raikkonen is Nico Hulkenberg, who was one of Grosjean's teammates at the ASM team in Formula 3 in 2007.

Romain Grosjean, ASM, Dallara-Mercedes, 2007. (Photo: Formula 3 Euro Series)

For the record, Romain Grosjean was the champion, with Nico Hulkenberg third.

"I came fresh from the A1 series and had a few problems in the first half of the season," Hulkenberg told Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

"The second half was much better and I even won the Formula 3 Masters," he added. Grosjean had started this race from pole.

Nico Hulkenberg said of Romain Grosjean: "We were not the best of friends."

Romain Grosjean explained: "We were two young drivers who were trying to go to formula one, so we clashed a few times during the season. But I don't think there would be any problems (in 2014)."

Nico Hulkenberg, ASM, Dallara-Mercedes, 2007. (Photo: Formula 3 Euro Series)

From GMM

F1 drivers have given the thumbs-up to the corner that has replaced the notorious 'Singapore sling' chicane.

We reported a month ago that, following constant criticism and crashes, the slow and unusual chicane with high and harsh kerbs has been replaced by a simple left-hander at turn 10.

"I think it will be good," Mercedes' Nico Rosberg told Brazil's Totalrace, after seeing the new solution during his track walk on Thursday.

"I can't say if it is safer or not, because the speed has been increased, but I think they've done a great job," he added.

Sahara Force India's Adrian Sutil admits he will miss the old chicane.

"I usually like a lot of fast corners, but I liked the chicane. It's now a fast corner which should be in third gear," said the German. "I think it's a very fluid circuit now, for a street circuit."

Kamui Kobayashi, Sauber, jumping on the kerbs in 2011. (Photo: Pirelli)

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso commented: "I think it's better now. The chicane was a bit dangerous. If everything went smoothly there, no problems, but if you had problems you could take off on the kerbs. I think we have improved the safety a little bit.

"The lap will be a second faster, but it will be as fun and challenging as it was before," he added.

From wrc.com

Citroën Racing boss Yves Matton has revealed that Kris Meeke is under consideration for another outing in a Citroen DS3 World Rally Car - even after the Brit suffered a miserable double-retirement on Rally Australia.

Australia was a second chance for Meeke to impress Citroen after his first outing for the French squad in Finland ended with a huge roll on the penultimate stage. 

Kris Meeke got off to the perfect start in Coffs Harbour by going fastest at qualifying, and was an impressive 4th until his car slipped off the road on Stage 13 and rolled seven times down a hill.

Kris Meeke. (Photo: Citroën Racing)

Matton told Wrc.com that before the crash he had been prepared to offer Meeke a third appearance on the season finale Wales Rally GB. 

“I explained to him before the rally that if he was doing what I asked here then he was doing GB. Now I think there is less chance that he is doing that, but I will wait a little bit. I never take a decision just after something happens. I need to think a little bit more. I think there is still some possibility," he said. 

Unfortunately, Matton has more to think about on Sunday, when Meeke retired again after the final stage having slid wide and smashed his car's right-hand rear suspension. 

“For sure it doesn't help him, again,” an unimpressed Matton told Wrc.com. “On Sunday it was very simple for him to go to the end. I know that he was first on the road, cleaning the road. Nothing to do, only maybe bring back two points, but at the end we went home with zero points for our second car. That's not positive.”

Photo: Citroën Racing

Matton confirmed however that Meeke still had a chance - perhaps driving the DS3 of Khalid Al Qassimi. “A lot depends on what happens in the manufacturers' championship. I don't think I will take the decision before the end of Rallye de France,“ he said. 

World championship leader. German Sebastian Vettel, set the pace Friday at Marina Bay circuit as he scored the best time of the two free practice sessions of the Grand Prix of Singapore.

During the morning session, Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton set the fastest time, beating Red Bull's Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel.

Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes AMG. (Photo: WRi2)

Hamilton was quick from the moment he started running on a track rendered slightly less green after the preceding GP2 practice, and wound up with 1m47.055 as Webber led Vettel with 1m47.420 to 1m47.885.

Nico Rosberg was next up in the second Mercedes, on 1m 48.239, ahead of the Lotuses of Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean on 1m48.354s, and 1m48.355s, Grosjean having spent around 60 of the 90-minute session in the garage thanks to a steering issue.

Fernando Alonso was Ferrari's lead runner in seventh on 1m 48.362s, while Sergio Perez flew the flag for McLaren despite one off-track excursion, with 1m 49.267s.

Grand Prix of Singapore, Friday, first free practice session*
1 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes W04) - 1'47"055 - 20 laps
2 - Mark Webber (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'47"420 - 20
3 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'47"885 - 19
4 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes W04) - 1'48"239 - 23
5 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'48"354 - 18
6 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'48"355 - 12
7 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari F138) - 1'48"362 - 21
8 - Sergio Perez (McLaren MP4/28-Mercedes) - 1'49"267 - 20
9 - Jean-Eric Vergne (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'49"348 - 23
10 - Esteban Gutierrez (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'49"355 - 21
11 - Pastor Maldonado (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'49"481 - 207
12 - Felipe Massa (Ferrari F138) - 1'49"493 - 1'49"493 - 21
13 - Valtteri Bottas (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'49"510 - 20
14 - Jenson Button (McLaren MP4/28-Mercedes) - 1'49"608 - 18
15 - Paul Di Resta (Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'49"887 - 20
16 - Adrian Sutil (Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'50"092 - 17
17 - Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'50"222 - 16
18 - Daniel Ricciardo (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'50"757 - 16
19 - Jules Bianchi (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'52"359 - 16
20 - Max Chilton (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'52"673 - 15
21 - Giedo Van der Garde (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'52"920 - 24
22 - Charles Pic (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'53"647 - 23
*Unofficial timing

Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, Ferrari. (Photo: WRi2)

In free practice 2, Vettel beat Webber, making it a Red Bull Racing sweep.

The two swapped the top spot repeatedly on the soft compound tires early before the German blew that pace away when he moved onto super softs and lapped in 1m44.249.

Webber's reply was compromised when he brushed the outside wall near the end of the lap, leaving him 0.604s down in the end.

Nico Rosberg was third in front of his teammate, Lewis Hamilton.

Recurrent steering and brake issues again limited Grosjean's track time, but did not stop him putting his Lotus fifth.

That placed him ahead of Alonso and Button in the top Ferrari and McLaren respectively, and Kimi Raikkonen in the second Lotus.

Lotus E21. (Photo: WRi2)

Grand Prix of Singapore, Friday, second free practice session*
1 - Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'44"249 - 34 laps
2 - Mark Webber (Red Bull RB9-Renault) - 1'44"853 - 30
3 - Nico Rosberg (Mercedes W04) - 1'45"258 - 34
4 - Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes W04) - 1'45"368 - 33
5 - Romain Grosjean (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'45"411 - 18
6 - Fernando Alonso (Ferrari F138) - 1'45"692 - 32
7 - Jenson Button (McLaren MP4/28-Mercedes) - 1'45"754 - 30
8 - Kimi Raikkonen (Lotus E21-Renault) - 1'45"778 - 32
9 - Adrian Sutil (Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'46"002 - 27
10 - Sergio Perez (McLaren MP4/28-Mercedes) - 1'46"025 - 31
11 - Daniel Ricciardo (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'46"406 - 34
12 - Jean-Eric Vergne (Toro Rosso STR8-Ferrari) - 1'46"429 - 33
13 - Paul Di Resta (Force India VJM06-Mercedes) - 1'46"606 - 33
14 - Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'46"808 - 36
15 - Felipe Massa (Ferrari F138) - 1'49"493 - 1'46"870 - 33
16 - Esteban Gutierrez (Sauber C32-Ferrari) - 1'47"287 - 29
17 - Valtteri Bottas (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'47"434 - 33
18 - Pastor Maldonado (Williams FW35-Renault) - 1'47"781 - 25
19 - Giedo Van der Garde (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'49"434 - 34
20 - Charles Pic (Caterham CT03-Renault) - 1'49"526 - 34
21 - Max Chilton (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'49"619 - 33
22 - Jules Bianchi (Marussia MR02-Cosworth) - 1'49"731 - 30
*Unofficial timing

September is usually when teams in major racing series start looking at the next season, which often leads to new contracts for drivers, shocking transfers, and a number of big disappointments.

This year is no different. Talks are now picking up at a blistering pace after a particularly quiet summer at the rumour mill -- aside from the one that sent Kimi Räikkönen to Ferrari.

When that rumour began floating around, many of our Facebook friends criticized us for reporting hearsay. “Kimi will not return to Ferrari. He has yet to swallow his exit from the team in 2009” sums up the various comments.

As it turned out, delayed payments by Lotus and several key departures within the technical department led the taciturn Finn to pack his bags and hit the road to Maranello, with full intent to compete directly with Fernando Alonso in 2014.

Sure, Ferrari prematurely terminated his contract four years ago to make room for the more talented Spaniard and the millions of dollars from Santander Bank, but Räikkönen is not one to hold a grudge against people.

Other notable exits include Mark Webber leaving Formula 1 to become Porsche's official endurance driver including at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Felipe Massa was ousted by Ferrari in favour of Räikkönen. After a severe crash at the Hungaroring and the difficult years that followed, the Brazilian was no longer able to push his teammate to surpass himself.

Lastly, we learned that former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya is kissing Ganassi Racing and NASCAR's Sprint Cup goodbye to join Roger Penske and his IndyCar team.

Montoya was originally hired by Chip Ganassi, and supported by series executives to boost interest among Latin-American fans. However, his 7-year stint in NASCAR will not exactly go down in history: just two wins, none of which took place on an oval speedway. A big bummer.

So, the controversial Colombian goes back to IndyCar where he will face none other than Ganassi. Will Montoya duplicate his past success and find a way to win the Indy 500 for a second time? That will definitely be one of the stories to watch in 2014.

Fernando Alonso and Kimi Räikkönen (Photo: WRI2)

From GMM

Romain Grosjean has admitted he is looking forward to being the 'number 1' at Lotus next year.

With Kimi Raikkonen heading to Ferrari, the Enstone based team will almost certainly keep the improving Frenchman Grosjean on board for 2014, when continuity will be important for the huge change of regulations.

"If I become world champion then I need to be number 1," Grosjean told the British broadcaster Sky.

"Every time I've been team leader, whether it be in Formula 3 or GP2, it's a good situation. But you have to create it," he admitted.

Interestingly, one of the favourites to replace Raikkonen is Nico Hulkenberg, who was one of Grosjean's teammates at the ASM team in Formula 3 in 2007.

Romain Grosjean, ASM, Dallara-Mercedes, 2007. (Photo: Formula 3 Euro Series)

For the record, Romain Grosjean was the champion, with Nico Hulkenberg third.

"I came fresh from the A1 series and had a few problems in the first half of the season," Hulkenberg told Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

"The second half was much better and I even won the Formula 3 Masters," he added. Grosjean had started this race from pole.

Nico Hulkenberg said of Romain Grosjean: "We were not the best of friends."

Romain Grosjean explained: "We were two young drivers who were trying to go to formula one, so we clashed a few times during the season. But I don't think there would be any problems (in 2014)."

Nico Hulkenberg, ASM, Dallara-Mercedes, 2007. (Photo: Formula 3 Euro Series)

From GMM

Friday practice sessions could be extended from 90 to 120 minutes next year in a bid to help young drivers gain formula one mileage.

That is the claim of Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, revealing that the proposal authored by team bosses and F1 race director Charlie Whiting will be put to the forthcoming meeting of the World Motor Sport Council.

The extended session would be to give extra preparatory and running time for teams, with race drivers and test drivers eligible to drive the same car during a single session.

The 'test drivers' eligible to drive in the extended first practice session will have to have an international A license, and have contested no more than two grands prix recently.

Photo: Marussia F1 Team

So far, the proposed change has drawn a mixed response.

"For us, it would take an hour to convert the car from one driver to another," said Williams' team manager Dickie Stanford.

But Sahara Force India's Andy Stevenson insisted: "At Monza, it took us ten minutes to get the car ready for Paul di Resta after James Calado drove it."

Auto Motor und Sport said the top teams are unlikely to field young drivers, but for outfits like Caterham and Marussia it would be "a welcome source of income".

The NASCAR Canadian Tire Series' championship battle will come to an end this weekend with two rivals, D.J. Kennington and Scott Steckly battling it out at Kawartha Speedway in the Pinty's 250.

Kennington comes to the Ontario speedway with a lead of only five points over Steckly which opens up several possibilities for each to claim the prize.

Scott Steckly. (Photo: NASCAR via Getty Images)

Not to be ignored, though, is Jason Hathaway, winner of the last three series' events. Sitting in third with 22 points behind Kennington, Hathaway will need some cooperation from the drivers ahead of him to notch his first series crown.

Both Kennington (2010 and 2012) and Steckly (2008 and 2011) are already double-crown winners and they are vying to become the first three-time title winner in the series that debuted in 2007.

Jason Hathaway. (Photo: NASCAR via Getty Images)

Hathaway, who earned his first series victory at Kawartha in 2008, has to notch a top-four finish on Saturday to entertain any title hopes, but anything less than a victory makes the task taller. Even with a win, he needs Kennington to finish 19th or worse and Steckly would need to come home in 15th-place or worse.

In any case, it's the closest battle for the crown in the seven-year history of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series regardless of the points' structure that changed a year ago.

DJ Kennington. (Photo: NASCAR via Getty Images)

The Pinty's 250 will be presented Saturday Sept. 21st at 5 p.m. ET with qualifications at 3 p.m.ET.

Point standings (top 10):
1 D.J. Kennington 430 points
2 Scott Steckly 425
3 Jason Hathaway 408
4 L.P. Dumoulin 395
5 J.R. Fitzpatrick 391
6 Martin Roy 390
7 Jason White 343
8 Alex Guenette* 341
9 Noel Dowler 340
10 Ron Beauchamp, Jr. 338

From GMM

Felipe Massa has admitted he could bring a financial boost to a team that keeps his formula one career on track in 2014.

The Ferrari refugee has been linked with moves to Lotus or possibly McLaren, but the Brazilian was quoted in Singapore as also mentioning Williams, Force India and Sauber.

And 11-time grand prix winner Massa, 32, said there is no shame in offering some backing to a prospective employer.

"I don't mean that I'm taking money out of my pocket, which I would never do, I am a professional driver who gets paid to race and will continue to do so," he told O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper.

"But I can use my great relationships to find a company that wants to be part of a global marketing project, and there are many in Brazil. I think it's also important not just for my career, but also for Brazilian motor racing, which is at the limit now," added Massa.

Felipe Massa. (Photo: WRi2)

And if it doesn't work out, he ruled out racing for a back-of-the-grid team, or getting on his knees to beg for a drive.

"There are other categories that interest me, like the DTM," said Felipe Massa.

"I don't think I would race in Indy. So if I can't be in a category that I like, or if I run out of time, I can take a year off and still enjoy my life," he insisted.

Felipe Massa also said that, while disappointed to have been let go by Ferrari, he is happy his replacement is Kimi Raikkonen.

"If the team had swapped me for a driver who doesn't have the qualities of Kimi, it would be a little harder to accept," he said.

Rebel blue at its best
Subtlety is something few can pull off well. Brash, in-your-face, larger-than-life is the norm these days, so those who take a more refined, under-the-radar approach are often overlooked. Shame on us for not paying more attention to the strong, silent types.

Now, some of you may have realized the colour of this subtle car is less than inconspicuous, however, that's about the only “loud” part about it, and I absolutely love that. This car has some serious power hiding beneath its Rebel Blue bonnet, AWD holding it to the road, and a drive so dynamic I guarantee it'll put a smile on your face.

Time to pay attention.


What is the Volvo S60?
Volvo's S60 first emerged in 2000, the Swedish manufacturer's idea of a “sports sedan.” While the vehicle received minor facelifts over the years, it wasn't until 2010 that the Volvo S60 was completely overhauled and the second generation emerged. It is the current design we see on the road today. A V60 estate will finally be making its way to North America by next year.

“R” versions of the S60 (and sexier V70) were available for a few years starting in 2004 and featured Volvo's AWD as well as more powerful engines and larger brakes were part of the package.

Polestar, founded in 1996 in collaboration with Volvo, is their performance division and responsible for their actual racecars and the performance parts that have trickled down along the consumer car lineup. Polestar can be likened to AMG or BMW's M Sport division.

This car has some serious power hiding beneath its Rebel Blue bonnet. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar Price and Specs
Let's forget the Polestar bit for a second here. The Volvo S60 T6 AWD comes equipped with a 3.0L I6 turbocharged engine good for 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Power is handled via a 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission and pushed put to all four wheels with Volvo's AWD.

A base 2013 Volvo S60 T6 AWD has a starting ticket price of $46,550.

Should you want your S60 to have a bit more kick (in secret, of course), you'll want to make sure you go for the R-Design. By purchasing a 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design, you're upping your horsepower to 325 and your torque to 354. You're also tightening up your suspension and handling, and adding a nifty Polestar badge to the front and back of the car.

A 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design will set you back $54,650 (base MSRP).

By purchasing a 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design, you're upping your horsepower to 325 and your torque to 354. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar
Here is where the S60 R-Design Polestar shines and becomes the secret racecar that it is. This thing is properly quick. I actually laughed at myself for being shocked by its get-up-and-go the first time I really hammered down the throttle.

Refined in its speed, the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar makes good on 100km/hr from a stop in just roughly 5.5 seconds. And forget paddle shifters, as there are none. I have to admit, I find it a bit strange there are none given the car's sporty nature, but then I got to thinking; Volvo is pretty much telling every driver: “Thanks, we've got this covered, you just focus on going fast.”

So I did.

Throttle response is fabulous in the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar as is the steering. Connected and planted on the road, the S60 corners like a champ, powering out in the most fantastic way when asked to.

Refined in its speed, the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar makes good on 100km/hr from a stop in just roughly 5.5 seconds. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar
Oh, Rebel Blue, how I love you. Seriously, there are few car colours out there that instill such emotion when painted on sheetmetal. It is, hands down, the most in-your-face aspect of the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar, and I love it.

Sitting atop 18” IXION wheels that look fantastic, the 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design is an eye-catcher for all the right reasons. The simple, small Polestar and R-Design decals add a certain flare to the whole getup.

Inside, the cabin consists of uber comfortable seats (with the most comfortable headrests in the world, complete with an R-Design imprint in the backrest), and the standard button-overload Volvo centre stack. While I do appreciate a good button to push, Volvo takes it to the extreme.

Interior space is more than adequate for a small family, as is the trunk space for a stroller and groceries.

Inside, the cabin consists of uber comfortable seats, and the standard button-overload Volvo centre stack. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design Polestar
When it comes to 300+ horsepower, AWD, midsize luxury sedans, there aren't too many options out there, and the competition is a bit steep in the BMW 335i and the Audi S4. There's also the ">Lexus IS350 F-Sport to consider. Each has something to offer, I think it'll all come down to what you want your car to say about you in the end.

Rebel blue at its best
Subtlety is something few can pull off well. Brash, in-your-face, larger-than-life is the norm these days, so those who take a more refined, under-the-radar approach are often overlooked. Shame on us for not paying more attention to the strong, silent types.

Now, some of you may have realized the colour of this subtle car is less than inconspicuous, however, that's about the only “loud” part about it, and I absolutely love that. This car has some serious power hiding beneath its Rebel Blue bonnet, AWD holding it to the road, and a drive so dynamic I guarantee it'll put a smile on your face.

Time to pay attention.


What is the Volvo S60?
Volvo's S60 first emerged in 2000, the Swedish manufacturer's idea of a “sports sedan.” While the vehicle received minor facelifts over the years, it wasn't until 2010 that the Volvo S60 was completely overhauled and the second generation emerged. It is the current design we see on the road today. A V60 estate will finally be making its way to North America by next year.

“R” versions of the S60 (and sexier V70) were available for a few years starting in 2004 and featured Volvo's AWD as well as more powerful engines and larger brakes were part of the package.

Polestar, founded in 1996 in collaboration with Volvo, is their performance division and responsible for their actual racecars and the performance parts that have trickled down along the consumer car lineup. Polestar can be likened to AMG or BMW's M Sport division.

This car has some serious power hiding beneath its Rebel Blue bonnet. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar Price and Specs
Let's forget the Polestar bit for a second here. The Volvo S60 T6 AWD comes equipped with a 3.0L I6 turbocharged engine good for 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Power is handled via a 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission and pushed put to all four wheels with Volvo's AWD.

A base 2013 Volvo S60 T6 AWD has a starting ticket price of $46,550.

Should you want your S60 to have a bit more kick (in secret, of course), you'll want to make sure you go for the R-Design. By purchasing a 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design, you're upping your horsepower to 325 and your torque to 354. You're also tightening up your suspension and handling, and adding a nifty Polestar badge to the front and back of the car.

A 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design will set you back $54,650 (base MSRP).

By purchasing a 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design, you're upping your horsepower to 325 and your torque to 354. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar
Here is where the S60 R-Design Polestar shines and becomes the secret racecar that it is. This thing is properly quick. I actually laughed at myself for being shocked by its get-up-and-go the first time I really hammered down the throttle.

Refined in its speed, the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar makes good on 100km/hr from a stop in just roughly 5.5 seconds. And forget paddle shifters, as there are none. I have to admit, I find it a bit strange there are none given the car's sporty nature, but then I got to thinking; Volvo is pretty much telling every driver: “Thanks, we've got this covered, you just focus on going fast.”

So I did.

Throttle response is fabulous in the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar as is the steering. Connected and planted on the road, the S60 corners like a champ, powering out in the most fantastic way when asked to.

Refined in its speed, the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar makes good on 100km/hr from a stop in just roughly 5.5 seconds. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar
Oh, Rebel Blue, how I love you. Seriously, there are few car colours out there that instill such emotion when painted on sheetmetal. It is, hands down, the most in-your-face aspect of the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar, and I love it.

Sitting atop 18” IXION wheels that look fantastic, the 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design is an eye-catcher for all the right reasons. The simple, small Polestar and R-Design decals add a certain flare to the whole getup.

Inside, the cabin consists of uber comfortable seats (with the most comfortable headrests in the world, complete with an R-Design imprint in the backrest), and the standard button-overload Volvo centre stack. While I do appreciate a good button to push, Volvo takes it to the extreme.

Interior space is more than adequate for a small family, as is the trunk space for a stroller and groceries.

Inside, the cabin consists of uber comfortable seats, and the standard button-overload Volvo centre stack. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design Polestar
When it comes to 300+ horsepower, AWD, midsize luxury sedans, there aren't too many options out there, and the competition is a bit steep in the BMW 335i and the Audi S4. There's also the ">Lexus IS350 F-Sport to consider. Each has something to offer, I think it'll all come down to what you want your car to say about you in the end.

From GMM, Updated, see below

The big rumour that shone under Singapore's lights on Thursday was all about Fernando Alonso -- and McLaren.

It was being whispered up and down the paddock that the real reason the British team is delaying the announcement about its drivers for next year is because negotiations with the disgruntled Ferrari 'number 1' Alonso are taking place.

Asked by the Daily Mail if he would hire the Spaniard, whose first McLaren stint in 2007 ended acrimoniously, team boss Martin Whitmarsh admitted: "Yes, if I could."

Jenson Button said on Thursday that his 2014 deal with McLaren is already "done". But it is believed the announcement is being held up so as not to focus speculation on the seat currently occupied by Sergio Perez.

Button, however, denied the Alonso subject is rampant even among those wearing McLaren team gear in Singapore.

"There hasn't been a word, that's the honest truth," he told the Independent newspaper. "But I think it (being paired with Alonso) would be quite exciting."

Fernando Alonso, Ferrari. (Photo: WRi2)

In the last couple of days, it has become clear McLaren is thinking not only about its drivers for 2014, but also the start of the Honda era in 2015.

"It's a different situation with partners," Jenson Button admitted. "It may be to do with the funding, but I don't have a worry in the world about my future with this team."

That may be true, but also true is that Honda might see an Alonso-Button pairing as even better -- and worth paying handsomely for.

The move might also entice Ferrari sponsor Santander back to McLaren to help pay Alonso's huge retainer.

"We want a winning driver from day one," the Spanish newspaper Marca quotes a Honda insider as saying.

UPDATE
Martin Whitmarsh on Friday denied McLaren has made an actual approach to Fernando Alonso or his management about driving for the team in 2014.

"No," he told the British broadcaster Sky after Friday practice in Singapore.

"No," said the Woking based team's boss, when asked the clarified question again.

Rebel blue at its best
Subtlety is something few can pull off well. Brash, in-your-face, larger-than-life is the norm these days, so those who take a more refined, under-the-radar approach are often overlooked. Shame on us for not paying more attention to the strong, silent types.

Now, some of you may have realized the colour of this subtle car is less than inconspicuous, however, that's about the only “loud” part about it, and I absolutely love that. This car has some serious power hiding beneath its Rebel Blue bonnet, AWD holding it to the road, and a drive so dynamic I guarantee it'll put a smile on your face.

Time to pay attention.


What is the Volvo S60?
Volvo's S60 first emerged in 2000, the Swedish manufacturer's idea of a “sports sedan.” While the vehicle received minor facelifts over the years, it wasn't until 2010 that the Volvo S60 was completely overhauled and the second generation emerged. It is the current design we see on the road today. A V60 estate will finally be making its way to North America by next year.

“R” versions of the S60 (and sexier V70) were available for a few years starting in 2004 and featured Volvo's AWD as well as more powerful engines and larger brakes were part of the package.

Polestar, founded in 1996 in collaboration with Volvo, is their performance division and responsible for their actual racecars and the performance parts that have trickled down along the consumer car lineup. Polestar can be likened to AMG or BMW's M Sport division.

This car has some serious power hiding beneath its Rebel Blue bonnet. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar Price and Specs
Let's forget the Polestar bit for a second here. The Volvo S60 T6 AWD comes equipped with a 3.0L I6 turbocharged engine good for 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Power is handled via a 6-speed Geartronic automatic transmission and pushed put to all four wheels with Volvo's AWD.

A base 2013 Volvo S60 T6 AWD has a starting ticket price of $46,550.

Should you want your S60 to have a bit more kick (in secret, of course), you'll want to make sure you go for the R-Design. By purchasing a 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design, you're upping your horsepower to 325 and your torque to 354. You're also tightening up your suspension and handling, and adding a nifty Polestar badge to the front and back of the car.

A 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design will set you back $54,650 (base MSRP).

By purchasing a 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design, you're upping your horsepower to 325 and your torque to 354. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar
Here is where the S60 R-Design Polestar shines and becomes the secret racecar that it is. This thing is properly quick. I actually laughed at myself for being shocked by its get-up-and-go the first time I really hammered down the throttle.

Refined in its speed, the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar makes good on 100km/hr from a stop in just roughly 5.5 seconds. And forget paddle shifters, as there are none. I have to admit, I find it a bit strange there are none given the car's sporty nature, but then I got to thinking; Volvo is pretty much telling every driver: “Thanks, we've got this covered, you just focus on going fast.”

So I did.

Throttle response is fabulous in the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar as is the steering. Connected and planted on the road, the S60 corners like a champ, powering out in the most fantastic way when asked to.

Refined in its speed, the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar makes good on 100km/hr from a stop in just roughly 5.5 seconds. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar
Oh, Rebel Blue, how I love you. Seriously, there are few car colours out there that instill such emotion when painted on sheetmetal. It is, hands down, the most in-your-face aspect of the 2013 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design Polestar, and I love it.

Sitting atop 18” IXION wheels that look fantastic, the 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design is an eye-catcher for all the right reasons. The simple, small Polestar and R-Design decals add a certain flare to the whole getup.

Inside, the cabin consists of uber comfortable seats (with the most comfortable headrests in the world, complete with an R-Design imprint in the backrest), and the standard button-overload Volvo centre stack. While I do appreciate a good button to push, Volvo takes it to the extreme.

Interior space is more than adequate for a small family, as is the trunk space for a stroller and groceries.

Inside, the cabin consists of uber comfortable seats, and the standard button-overload Volvo centre stack. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the 2013 Volvo S60 R-Design Polestar
When it comes to 300+ horsepower, AWD, midsize luxury sedans, there aren't too many options out there, and the competition is a bit steep in the BMW 335i and the Audi S4. There's also the ">Lexus IS350 F-Sport to consider. Each has something to offer, I think it'll all come down to what you want your car to say about you in the end.

From GMM

F1 drivers have given the thumbs-up to the corner that has replaced the notorious 'Singapore sling' chicane.

We reported a month ago that, following constant criticism and crashes, the slow and unusual chicane with high and harsh kerbs has been replaced by a simple left-hander at turn 10.

"I think it will be good," Mercedes' Nico Rosberg told Brazil's Totalrace, after seeing the new solution during his track walk on Thursday.

"I can't say if it is safer or not, because the speed has been increased, but I think they've done a great job," he added.

Sahara Force India's Adrian Sutil admits he will miss the old chicane.

"I usually like a lot of fast corners, but I liked the chicane. It's now a fast corner which should be in third gear," said the German. "I think it's a very fluid circuit now, for a street circuit."

Kamui Kobayashi, Sauber, jumping on the kerbs in 2011. (Photo: Pirelli)

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso commented: "I think it's better now. The chicane was a bit dangerous. If everything went smoothly there, no problems, but if you had problems you could take off on the kerbs. I think we have improved the safety a little bit.

"The lap will be a second faster, but it will be as fun and challenging as it was before," he added.

Former F1 driver Alain Prost won his 28th Grand Prix on September 20th, 1987, in Portugal. Racing for McLaren-TAG, he surpassed the win total set by Jackie Stewart in 1973.

The prolific Prost won 51 races and four world championships during his entire career, which ended after the Australian Grand Prix on November 7th, 1993 (he finished second behind Ayrton Senna). He last won a Grand Prix on July 25th of that year in Germany.

Michael Schumacher eclipsed Prost on September 2nd, 2001 when he notched his 52nd victory at the Belgian Grand Prix.

Source: Wikipedia

Alain Prost and Ayrton (Photo: WRI2)