Auto News 5

BMW, Audi and Mercedes are gaining market share in Europe at the expense of mass-market rivals as they push into making smaller cars.

German premium automakers BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz are gaining market share in Europe at the expense of mass-market rivals as they push into making smaller cars.

A new compact car platform under discussion between Daimler and Renault-Nissan could be used for non-premium cars sold by Renault and Nissan.

German partsmaker Dr. Schneider Automotive Systems will invest $29 million (about 22 million euros) to open its second factory in the United States.

Tesla is working to produce a car capable of running on "auto-pilot" within the next three years, CEO Elon Musk said, joining Google and rival carmakers in the race to roll out a driverless car.

A new compact car platform under discussion between Daimler and Renault-Nissan could be used for non-premium cars sold by Renault and Nissan.

German partsmaker Dr. Schneider Automotive Systems will invest $29 million (about 22 million euros) to open its second factory in the United States.

Tesla is working to produce a car capable of running on "auto-pilot" within the next three years, CEO Elon Musk said, joining Google and rival carmakers in the race to roll out a driverless car.

A new compact car platform under discussion between Daimler and Renault-Nissan could be used for non-premium cars sold by Renault and Nissan.

German partsmaker Dr. Schneider Automotive Systems will invest $29 million (about 22 million euros) to open its second factory in the United States.

Tesla Motors is working to produce a car capable of running on "auto-pilot" within the next three years, CEO Elon Musk said, joining Google and rival carmakers in the race to roll a driverless car into the market.

Mazda Canada has revealed pricing for the all-new 2014 Mazda3, which will go on sale next month starting at $15,995. The car will feature the full complement of SKYACTIV technology, along with the exclusive capacitor-based i-ELOOP regenerative braking system.

Two engines will be available with the 2014 Mazda3 including a 2.0L SKYACTIV-G on GX and GS models, as well as a 2.5L SKYACTIV-G rated at 184 horsepower in GT trim.

Fuel consumption for the 2.0L unit is 6.8L/100km in the city and 4.8L/100km on the highway when equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission. The optional 6-speed autobox improves these numbers to 6.7 and 4.7L/100km, respectively.

Meanwhile, with 7.2L/100km in the city and 5.1L/100km on the highway, the 2014 Mazda3 GT shows that power and fuel economy are not mutually exclusive. When equipped with i-ELOOP from the Technology Package, fuel economy is improved even further to 7.1 and 5.0L/100km.

2014 Mazda3 prices

• Mazda3 GX: $15,995 (+$1,200 for automatic transmission)
• Mazda3 GS: $19,695 (automatic transmission available)
• Mazda3 GT (SKYACTIV-Drive): $25,855

Photo: Mazda

The Marina Bay Formula 1 circuit in Singapore will have a second DRS zone for this year's race.

The detection point of the first zone will be located 230m before Turn 5 and the activation zone will begin 50m after the apex of Turn 5.

The detection point of the second zone will be located 80m before the apex of Turn22 and the activation zone will begin 45m after the apex of Turn 23.


Lotus's trackside operations director Alan Permane expects the extra DRS zone will do little to make it easier for drivers to pass each other.

“The additional DRS zone along the pit straight is very short so we wouldn't expect that to have much of a bearing on overtaking,” said Permane in a Lotus press release.

“It may help a driver close up to the car in front through the opening sequence of corners, but even the original section from turn five to seven is quite a tricky place to make a move so it's unlikely to have a major influence.”

The fallout from the NASCAR race Richmond fiasco continues as NAPA, one of Michael Waltrip Racing's earliest and major sponsors, has announced that it's ending its contract prematurely at the end of this year.

The auto parts retailer made the announcement on its Facebook page.

“After thorough consideration, NAPA has made the difficult decision to end its sponsorship arrangement with Michael Waltrip Racing effective December 31, 2013. NAPA believes in fair play and does not condone actions such as those that led to the penalties assessed by NASCAR. We remain supportive of the millions of NASCAR fans and will evaluate our future position in motorsports.”

Martin Truex Jr., Michael Waltrip Racing. (Photo: NASCAR)

MWR was singled out by NASCAR, for the manipulation of the outcome of the Richmond race. The sanctioning body imposed the heaviest penalties in NASCAR history in terms of points against the three MWR teams, indefinite suspension of competition director, Ty Norris, and fines against MWR. MWR driver Martin Truex, Jr., (whose Toyota wears NAPA livery) points penalty, knocked him out of the Chase.

“Michael Waltrip Racing respects the decision NAPA announced today following the events at Richmond. There is no doubt, the story of Michael Waltrip Racing begins with NAPA Auto Parts, but there are many more chapters yet to be written. MWR has the infrastructure and support of Toyota for three teams plus three Chase-caliber, race-winning drivers. With the support of our corporate partners we are preparing to field three teams in 2014. MWR is a resilient organization capable of winning races and competing for the championship and that remains our sole focus,” said the team in a written statement.

Chad Johnston and Martin Truex Jr. wearing NAPA colors. (Photo: Michael Waltrip Racing)

NAPA had sponsored Waltrip going back to his years with Dale Earnhardt Incorporated's race team in 2001.

Top down. Sun out. Ignition on. Clutch in. First gear. Start moving. Shift gears. Repeat.

That's driving awesomeness -- or at least it's driving the 2013 Mazda MX-5 GS. With its True Red exterior paired with a Brilliant Black retractable hardtop, 17" dark gunmetal wheels and more, looking good in the roadster is easy. Feeling great is even easier.

What is the Mazda MX-5?
If you haven't heard of the MX-5 before -- previously known as the Miata -- you have probably been living under a rock. Or don't have the internet. Just kidding. Since its introduction in 1990 as a 1991 model, it has sold millions of units worldwide, earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records, and is raced on tracks around the world.


2013 Mazda MX-5 GS Price and Specs
The front-engine, rear-wheel drive MX-5 is the essence of what a sports car should be.

With a sport-tuned suspension complete with Bilstein shocks, a limited slip differential, and a 6-speed manual transmission, it's a recipe for a good time.

There's 167 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque generated from the 2013 Mazda MX-5's 2.0L, 4-cylinder engine. While it might not look that impressive on paper, the MX-5 only weighs 1,182 kg (2,606 lbs.), therefore it has a swiftness to it.

Moving through the close-ratio, 6-speed manual also proves to be one of the shining attributes of the tiny two-door's persona.

Where the MX-5 falls short is in standard equipment. Better yet, stuff people look for in cars these days. Particularly a Bluetooth system. With most Canadian provinces employing a handsfree policy, Bluetooth is high on the list of features drivers seek. It's a quick fix if you have a headset, but I wish it came, especially with the $36,045 price tag of the 2013 Mazda MX-5 GS. It is, however, standard equipment on the top-of-the line GT trim.

There's 167 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque generated from the 2013 Mazda MX-5's 2.0L, 4-cylinder engine. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

Driving the 2013 Mazda MX-5 GS
It's peppy, without the drama. Shifts are smooth, the clutch isn't too hefty to push in and it has a spring in its step. Whether going for a joyride or driving with a purpose in mind, the 2013 Mazda MX-5 makes it enjoyable -- top up or down.

Speaking of putting the top down, it's fairly straightforward. Undo the latch where it says "release," push the button on the centre stack and, within seconds, the world opens up. To reverse the process, hold the button down with the "top up" icon, wait a few seconds and then do up the latch.

Life is good.

When it comes to fuel economy, it's rated at using an estimated 9.7L/100km in the city and 7.1L/100km on the highway. Mazda does recommend filling it up with premium fuel. The 2013 Mazda MX-5 GS is a performance machine, after all, but that's your call to make if you want to go with a lower octane.

It's peppy, without the drama. Shifts are smooth, the clutch isn't too hefty to push in and it has a spring in its step. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

Inside and Out of the 2013 Mazda MX-5 GS
With room for two inside, don't expect much more. Granted, there are a couple of nooks for some personal items, but it's pretty tight inside.

Taller people could find it somewhat cramped, even with the seats extended all the way back.

Plus, this roadster has ground-hugging attributes, so it sits very low. Ingress and egress requires some effort; effort I'm willing to put in.

Don't get too excited when you I say there's only 150 litres of trunk space. Let's face it, that's not a lot. On the bright side, when the top is down, the retractable roof doesn't encroach upon the meagre trunk space.

Then there's the USB plug, or lack thereof. For those who enjoy listening to their tunage from their MP3 players or listening to audio books or anything in between, you'll either have to dig out your aux cord or get it on a CD. You remember those round things that hold music files?

Are these make-or-break qualms in regards to the MX-5? Not at all.

This roadster has ground-hugging attributes, so it sits very low. Ingress and egress requires some effort. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

Comparing the 2013 Mazda MX-5 GS
Currently, the MINI Roadster can be pinned up against the MX-5. That said, the MINI comes with a front-wheel drive configuration, not rear-wheel.

However, both these pint-sized vehicles still dish up a healthy dose of fun.

Ferdinand Anton Ernst Porsche, son of Ferdinand Porsche, was born in Austria on September 19th, 1909. Better known as Ferry Porsche, he designed the first-ever Porsche, called 356, in 1947.

The two men have always worked closely and they established their design studio in Stuttgart in 1931. They introduced the original Volkswagen Beetle in 1938 at the request of Adolf Hitler, who wanted a small, affordable car for German families -- much like Benito Mussolini commissioned the Fiat 500 Topolino two years earlier.

After World War II, Ferry Porsche took over the company as his father was arrested and jailed in France. A contract with Piero Dusio was completed for a Grand Prix car, the Type 360 Cisitalia, and the money it raised was used to redeem Ferdinand Porsche from French prison.

The Porsche 356 enjoyed big success, selling over 80,000 units in a decade and a half. It was followed in 1963 by the first 911, jointly designed by Ferry Porsche's son and nephew.

Source : caradisiac.com

The designer Ferdinand Porsche (left) with his son Ferry (right) in 1934 (Photo: Porsche)

1947 Porsche 356 (Photo: Porsche)

From Barrie Speedway

Barrie Speedway would see its 2013 title chase end in thrilling fashion on September 14, as cooler temperatures were the order of the evening. Ultra tight point battles in two of the three featured divisions set the stage for the intense night of racing to come.

In the track's premier Wahta Springs Late Model division, 2009 track champ No. 10 Gord Shepherd of Oro Station need only take green in each leg of twin 50 lap features to secure his second Late Model title, and fourth career at the speedway.

No. 14 "Hurricane" Thayne Hallyburton of Hillsdale notched his eighth feature win of the season.

The 50 lap finale to the evening would be a fluid affair, as the race was slowed by just a single caution on lap 39, as the No. 57 Ron "The Dominator" Quesnelle would take the lead early and not look back in route to claiming his fourth feature win of 2013.

Quesnelle claimed the final point race of the season by two car lengths over No. 43 Darin Malcolm of North Bay at the line. Gord Shepherd, would cap off a solid point night and take the 2013 title in finishing third.

In the Canestoga Property Maintenance Thunder Car action, the legions of fans on hand were treated to a whale of a finish, as No. 44 Dave Doucette would claim his fifth feature win of 2013 in his sleek looking G.D Coates Suzuki Chrysler 300 Z.

In the St. Onge Recreation Pure Stocks, it was 2010 track champ No. 15 Will Davies who took the checkered to claim his first feature win of the season in the final point race.

Be sure to join us this coming Saturday afternoon Sept 21st, as it's the third installment of the Garry Reynolds Memorial Invitational for all three regular divisions.

With several top drivers already confirmed from around the province, race fans will see firsthand why this race is commonly referred to as the "crown jewel" of the Barrie Speedway race season, as the track prepares to honor its all-time feature race victory leader who succumbed to cancer nearly three years ago.

Pit gates open at 11 am, with spectator gates commencing business at 2pm, and heat races slated to begin just after 4pm.

Veteran Canadian race driver Alex Tagliani, who lost his IndyCar ride with Barracuda Herta last summer, may begin a new career in endurance, sports car racing.

Having raced single seaters (Formula Fords, Formula Atlantics and Indy cars) for more than two decades, “Tag” drove for R. Ferri/Aim Autosport Ferrari Grand-Am Rolex GT team at Kansas on August 17. He drove the Ferrari once again at Monterey and that could have signaled the start of a new career.

Talking to RACER magazine, Tagliani said: “What became very interesting for me, once I started doing sports car racing, is that a lot of doors opened up. I had three, four calls come in right away and more over the past couple of weeks to do sports cars and I'm really liking that”.

No. 61 R.Ferri/AIM Ferrari

Since Player's was forced to cease their sponsorship in motorsport, Tagliani has been working hard every year to find money needed to go racing.

“Drivers today need to find money to race, a lot of money, and you have to be a driver, a sponsor hunter, out trying to promote yourself to find more money and all of these things just to keep yourself in IndyCar,” he said.

“I've had some other interesting developments come my way in sports cars - one that might shock people - that could dictate where I end up racing next year. I can't say anything about it, but if it happens, it would be a huge thing for me personally and for my career,” he added.

The Quebec native admits he does not know in which series he will race in 2014. Sports car racing seems to be his priority but the 39-year-old admits that a return to the IZOD IndyCar series and possibly taking in select NASCAR Nationwide series events could happen.

“I never want to turn my back on IndyCar; I'd like to do the Indy 500 each year because I know I can do a good job for a good team, and I still have some options to drive there full time, but if I can make it happen, I think sports cars is the way to go,” he told RACER.

The car business is in a fizz at the moment. Extremes in the industry are commonplace now, as I touch upon in a recent blog. Obviously, it's not all about extremes, as this vehicle blends a little of both ends of the spectrum.

The Focus ST brings together the compact economical and utilitarian aspect that makes the car socially acceptable, along with subtle performance. This hot-hatch is one of the better sorted in a category that is typically reserved for connoisseurs and enthusiasts.

As one of the most recent additions to this highly criticized and scrutinized micro-segment, the ">2013 Ford Focus ST needed to be special and check all the right boxes. 90% of the time, the ST does everything brilliantly. The other 10% of the time, it's close.


What is a Ford Focus ST?
The Focus is one of Ford's most popular nameplates in history. As an affordable compact car, it manages to blend good driving dynamics and utility in a handsome package.

The Ford Focus ST is the most powerful and sporty version of the car currently offered in North America. As such, expectations were very high. So Ford addressed all elements required to make the ST special.

As always, Europe receives extra goodies. In this case, it's an estate variant of the ST whereas we only get a hatchback. I promise I won't complain about it.

The Ford Focus ST is the most powerful and sporty version of the car currently offered in North America. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

2013 Ford Focus ST Price and Specs
The 2013 Focus ST earns its keep thanks to an EcoBoost engine. The turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine is a player in a number of Ford's current vehicles. In the ST, it produces 252 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque.

The only available transmission is a slick-shifting 6-speed manual with enhanced torque vectoring control driving the front wheels.

Base price for the 2013 Focus ST is $29,999. With a few options such as a power moonroof, my tester's total rings in at $32,999.

The turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine is a player in a number of Ford's current vehicles. In the ST, it produces 252 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Driving the Ford Focus ST
Taking true control of the 2013 Ford Focus ST is a two-handed job. Like most high-powered FWD car, torque steer is always present -- and I truly love it. It reminds me that driving (at least this car) remains a tactile, feel-y affair.

As the clutch is dropped and quickly latches on to the flywheel, the 2013 Ford Focus ST jets forward with little or no lag. A quick snick of the shifter into second and the race continues. The sole issue here is the oversized armrest that hampers elbow travel when cogging into even-numbered gears.

As the speedo climbs to 100 km/h (in 6.5 seconds) and beyond, keeping the wheels straight becomes less of an issue. The Focus ST stays true at this point as the 235/40YR18 Goodyear Eagle F1s clamp to the tarmac.

The ride is far from jarring, but make no mistake: this is not grandpa's Focus. The ST's sport-tuned independent suspension and large stabilizer bars make for a car designed to grip. The setup is track-perfect with loads of grip overall. Best of all, a little lift-off oversteer is a real possibility with this car. If brave enough (and on a track) it's worth it...

This car's steering speaks the same language, as it is one of the quickest and most direct of any FWD vehicle I've driven. The immediacy of the front wheels' reaction is surprising at first but when driving any other car afterwards, they all feel excessively slow by comparison.

The quasi-tragic downside to the Ford Focus ST's rapid steering is a turning radius that quickly becomes an issue especially when dealing with any semi-tight urban setting.

As with all self-proclaimed (certified in this case) performance-oriented cars, the 2013 Ford Focus ST's brakes are up to the task; middle pedal response is instantaneous and reassuring.

The ride is far from jarring, but make no mistake: this is not grandpa's Focus. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Inside and out of the Ford Focus ST
The 2013 Ford Focus ST starts off as a 5-door hatchback to which HID headlamps, 18” wheels, and unique and cool centre-mounted tailpipes are added. The front fascia features a large, gaping blacked-out front grille, a complete body kit with lower valences and rocker mouldings, and a larger, more aggressive rear bumper.

The result is a car that has all the right physical elements. It seriously looks the part. Common folk may not recognize the ST as being special, but the enthusiasts do -- job well done.

The cabin starts as a regular Focus, but receives a number of ST go-faster bits. The best and most obvious are the full-leather Recaro seats, and ST-stamped steering and aluminum pedals. The interior is a well-sorted place and fully loaded.

The item I most despise about this car is described as follows by Ford: “To further amplify your aural experience, engineers channeled the lower-engine frequencies of this signature sound into the cabin.” This is bar-none, the most annoying and useless feature in any car. The drone it creates is terrible and terribly irritating. Ford: Remove it for the 2014 MY. Thanks.

The cabin starts as a regular Focus, but receives a number of ST go-faster bits. The best and most obvious are the full-leather Recaro seats, and ST-stamped steering and aluminum pedals. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Comparing the Ford Focus ST
The ST plays nicely with a number of hot hatches and compact coupes. The Mazdaspeed3 and Volkswagen GTI are two of its principal competitors.

The 2013 Ford Focus ST strikes an interesting balance of sophistication and rawness and is the better driver of the three. The next MKVII GTI may change all that...

Honda Canada is recalling 23,300 Odyssey minivans from 2003-2004 as well as 4,800 Acura MDX crossovers from 2003 to address potential malfunctions of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS).

In some cases, airbags could deploy inadvertently and increase the risk of a crash. To prevent malfunction, an electrical noise filter will be installed adjacent to the SRS control unit, free of charge.

The automaker has so far received one report of an inadvertent airbag deployment. No collisions or injuries have been reported related to this issue.

Owners are encouraged to take their vehicles to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification of this recall from Honda Canada beginning late October. For more information, visit www.honda.ca or www.acura.ca

2004 Honda Odyssey (Photo: Honda)

2003 Acura MDX (Photo: Acura)