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GM aims to improve the electric-only range of the next Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid by at least 20 percent.

The near identical Opel Mokka and Buick Encore represent what GM CEO Dan Akerson is pushing the company to do more of -- leverage scale, drive profits and serve regional tastes.

GM named Delphi executive Steve Kiefer head of global powertrain operations -- a post that has been vacant for more than two years. He will report to Mary Barra, GM's executive vice president of global product development.

GM named Delphi executive Steve Kiefer head of global powertrain operations -- a post that has been vacant for more than two years. He will report to Mary Barra, GM's executive vice president of global product development.

BMW's rechargeable i8 sports car is entering a soon-to-be-crowded field of supercars with a hint of green. The German automaker, however, isn't worried about competing with Telsa in the niche because BMW says the cars target different buyers.

GM aims to improve the electric-only range of the next Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid by at least 20 percent.

Volkswagen built its 10 millionth car in Mexico this month. It was a Beetle.

GM named Delphi executive Steve Kiefer head of global powertrain operations -- a post that has been vacant for more than two years. He will report to Mary Barra, GM's executive vice president of global product development.

The Sport Quattro Concept plug-in hybrid Audi will unveil next month at the Frankfurt auto show could become a low-volume series model.

The near identical Opel Mokka and Buick Encore represent what GM CEO Dan Akerson is pushing the company to do more of -- leverage scale, drive profits and serve regional tastes.

From press release

Reigning Canadian and North American Rally Champions Antoine L'Estage (of St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Qc) and Nathalie Richard (of Halifax, Nova Scotia) will contest the final two rounds of the Rally America series in an Open Class 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, via support from Subaru and John Buffum's Vermont-based Libra Racing shop.

The Rockstar Energy Rally Team will make their first appearance in the car, an ex-Subaru Rally Team USA car last used by the team in 2010, this week at Minnesota's Ojibwe Forests Rally, and again at the Lake Superior Performance Rally in Michigan this fall. 

"After our big accident in the WRC Lancer a few months ago, we were left without a car and looking for something competitive with which we could finish the Rally America series," exclaimed Quebec driver Antoine L'Estage.

Antoine L'Estage testing the Subaru WRX STI at Kearney Rally Village. (Photo: Neil McDaid)

"The opportunity arose to drive a Subaru at the final two rounds and Subaru stepped up with support to make it happen. We're grateful for their assistance and I'm really looking forward to driving this car."

L'Estage will drive the Rockstar Subaru WRX STI in the last two rounds of the 2013 Rally America series. The car will be serviced by John Buffum's Libra Racing with technical assistance from Subaru technical-partner Vermont SportsCar.

The duo currently leads the 2013 North American Rally Cup and good results at these last two events would help increase their lead.

Toyota has announced the pricing for the different versions of the 2014 Venza, which are now available at Canadian Toyota dealers.

Available with a 2.7 litre 182 hp 4-cylinder engine or a 3.5 litre V6 that produces 268 hp, the Venza is equipped with a sequential 6-speed automatic transmission. Numerous standard features include heated-mirrors with integrated turn signals, convex mirror (for blind spots), floor lighting and an 8-way adjustable power driver seat among others.

Model	Engine	Combined fuel economy (city/highway)	Price
Venza (base)	4-cylinder	9.6L/100 km	$28,695
Venza V6 (base)	V6	8.6L/100 km	$30,495
Venza AWD	4-cylinder	8.8L/100 km	$30,450
Venza AWD V6	V6	9.8L/100 km	$32,250

A number of different equipment packages can be added to the 2014 Venza including XLE, Limited and Limited with Technology Package.

Photo: Toyota

Lexus has chosen the backdrop of the Frankfurt Auto Show to introduce a concept vehicle of which few details have yet been released other than a furtive picture of the driver-side headlight.

The headlight bears a resemblance with those found on the LF-CC Concept, introduced at the Paris Motor Show last fall, which is expected to eventually morph into the new soon-to-be-released RC Coupe. Several sources claim that the vehicle will most likely be in the compact SUV category. Tune in to the September 10th Lexus press conference to find out more.

The European launch of the GS 300h is also planned for Frankfurt. Equipped with the Hybrid 2.5 litre Lexus powertrain, the vehicle offers both lower emissions and improved fuel economy.

Photo: Lexus

Top of the heap
Certain brands transcend all others based solely on their history, one rife with exploits that must be sustained in the present via newer and greater ones. If a brand is well-played, like Range Rover, it will grow into something more.

The Range Rover went from an off-road “machine” to a status symbol when the second generation arrived in 1994. By 2002, the Big Rover became a bonafide über luxo SUV, essentially the ultimate expression of panache on four tall wheels.

The new ">2013 Range Rover takes it one step farther with a more refined shape, all the content from previous generations and more, as well as power -- but now with less weight to lug around. This Range Rover Supercharged is the poster boy for the better things in life and the poshest way to cover any kind of terrain quickly -- the perfect car for a Mafia Boss.


What is a Range Rover?
The 2013 Range Rover is the range-topping product from the firm that sells some of the finest and most capable SUVs in the world: Land Rover.

Introduced in 1970, the Range Rover set the standard by which all other SUVs (regular or luxury) are measured. The bar has always been very high where even some of the big-budget carmakers are unable to match it on road or off.

The Range Rover is now in its fourth generation and shares its namesake with the Sport (new model arrives shortly) and the compact Evoque.

The 2013 Range Rover is the range-topping product from the firm that sells some of the finest and most capable SUVs in the world: Land Rover. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Technicalities
The new 2013 Range Rover gets its Supercharged moniker from its twin vortex force-fed 5.0L V8. The result is a ground-shaking 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque.

The Big Rover comes with Range Rover's highly sophisticated Terrain Response 2 Auto system that works the full-time intelligent 4WD. The entire system features a 50/50 torque split and a two-speed transfer box.

An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard and may be controlled via wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The base 2013 Range Rover Supercharged retails for $114,750. The top line Autobiography goes for $144,000.

The new 2013 Range Rover gets its Supercharged moniker from its twin vortex force-fed 5.0L V8. The result is a ground-shaking 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Miranda Lightstone)

Driving the Range Rover
As anyone would expect, being at the helm of a Range Rover -- the Range Rover -- is quite an event. After pressing the start button, the Drive Select Rotary Shifter rises from the centre console, is turned to D, and the earth becomes a playground.

The electronic air suspension ascends from its Access height to reach its normal setting and immediately the Big Rover demonstrates uncanny poise. The ride comfort is supreme, the feeling of invincibility, intoxicating. From the command position, the driver feels in control and safe. Despite the 21” wheels, the 2013 Range Rover hovers over all civilized terrains.

Even with its massive power and ability to reach 100km/h in 5.3 seconds, the suspension and drivetrain are never overwhelmed. Progress and response are mind-numbing as the surrounding landscape turns to a blur. The 2,330 kg (5,137 lbs) girth all but disappears from the conscious mind as the transmission powers seamlessly through its gears.

If I may fault the electric power steering for its constant over-assistance, I cannot say the same for its massive vented disc brakes. Their force matches that of the engine.

The 2013 Range Rover is not a small vehicle and therefore its manoeuvrability is limited. The steering radius of 12.3 meters is large, but decent for its size. The available Park Assist and Vision Assist packages do help.

With a near even mix of city and highway driving, I averaged 18.5L/100 km.

After pressing the start button, the Drive Select Rotary Shifter rises from the centre console, is turned to D, and the earth becomes a playground. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and out of the Range Rover
As I've stated, the 2013 Range Rover is an event and it all begins the moment we take a look at it. Standing regally on its gorgeous wheels, draped in Fuji White, the Big Rover makes a stately statement while mum's the word.

The new more fluidic bodylines remove some of the Range Rover's previous rugged angles, but the final result is stunning.

The drama further increases as we climb aboard. The materials, fit, and grand black lacquer finish and contrasting interior colours of the tester make the cabin a hard place to leave.

The large front seats, fully adjustable with massaging function, are supremely cosseting. The rear bench is also power-operated and comfortable. These, and ventilated seats all round, are part of the Front & Rear Seat Climate Comfort pack.

The standard level of kit in the 2013 Range Rover is huge; however, selecting the optional 825-Watt Meridian Premium sound system makes the experience that much better.

The rear bench is power-operated and comfortable. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the Range Rover
As the Godfather of the luxury SUV, the 2013 Range Rover Supercharged can take them all on. On any given day, not only the day of the owner's daughter's wedding, it can take on the likes of the Mercedes GL- and G-Class, the Porsche Cayenne, and practically laughs in the face of the Cadillac Escalade.

The Range Rover is a status symbol and looks up to no other.

From press release

Reigning Canadian and North American Rally Champions Antoine L'Estage (of St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Qc) and Nathalie Richard (of Halifax, Nova Scotia) will contest the final two rounds of the Rally America series in an Open Class 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, via support from Subaru and John Buffum's Vermont-based Libra Racing shop.

The Rockstar Energy Rally Team will make their first appearance in the car, an ex-Subaru Rally Team USA car last used by the team in 2010, this week at Minnesota's Ojibwe Forests Rally, and again at the Lake Superior Performance Rally in Michigan this fall. 

"After our big accident in the WRC Lancer a few months ago, we were left without a car and looking for something competitive with which we could finish the Rally America series," exclaimed Quebec driver Antoine L'Estage.

Antoine L'Estage testing the Subaru WRX STI at Kearney Rally Village. (Photo: Neil McDaid)

"The opportunity arose to drive a Subaru at the final two rounds and Subaru stepped up with support to make it happen. We're grateful for their assistance and I'm really looking forward to driving this car."

L'Estage will drive the Rockstar Subaru WRX STI in the last two rounds of the 2013 Rally America series. The car will be serviced by John Buffum's Libra Racing with technical assistance from Subaru technical-partner Vermont SportsCar.

The duo currently leads the 2013 North American Rally Cup and good results at these last two events would help increase their lead.

Ferrari has chosen the Frankfurt Motor Show for the launch of a souped-up version of the 458 Italia, the 458 Speciale. Equipped with a 597 hp V8, it is the most powerful V8 Ferrari ever.

Performance numbers released by Ferrari have the 458 Speciale accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 3 seconds, while reaching 200 km/h in 9.1 seconds. Top speed has yet to be announced.

Weighing in at 1290 kilograms, the 458 Speciale is equipped with moveable front and rear flaps and lateral skirts for aerodynamic efficiency. A new electronics system called Side Slip Angle Control (SSC), developed by Ferrari, helps maintains skid control.

Pricing for the 458 Speciale has not been published at this point by Ferrari.

Photo: Ferrari

Toyota has chosen the Frankfurt Auto Show for the world-premiere of its Yaris Hybrid-R concept vehicle, which should give consumers a good idea of Toyota's sports-hybrid plans for the future.

Based on the 3-door Yaris, the Hybrid-R is equipped with a 1.6 litre GRE (Global Race Engine) motor produced by Toyota Motorsport, which is mated to twin electric motors. This setup turns the Hybrid Yaris into a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

Furthermore, Toyota will use the Frankfurt venue to present its latest Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle (FCHV) technology, which should make it into production before 2015. It's worth noting that before years' end Toyota will have 16 new or recently updated hybrid vehicles on the market.

Photo: Toyota

Two consecutive finishes outside the points have put the defending DTM champion Bruno Spengler in a tough spot.

In the fight for the 2013 title, Spengler has dropped to fourth, 39 points behind leader Mike Rockenfeller. Only three races remain on the calendar.

Reflecting on the last two rounds, in which he tangled with an Audi driver, the Canadian concluded they might have cost him a second consecutive crown: "If I am not champion again, it's definitely in these two races where it's cost us," he is quoted saying by British magazine Autosport.

"Everyone who has eyes can see what happened in Moscow and what happened (at the Nürburgring), so I don't think I need to comment on this," he added referring to the contacts he had with Miguel Molina in Moscow, and with Filipe Albuquerque last weekend.

Can Bruno Spengler still turn his season around? (Photo: DTM.com)

Audi's DTM boss Dieter Gass was quick to refute the theory according to which he told his drivers to target Spengler, however.

"After Moscow, I said it already that I don't want to see anyone taking out a championship contender," he told TouringCarTimes.com. "We were fighting backwards and forwards, and I don't think it was harder on Bruno than it was on any of the other Audis."

In any case, the Canadian refuses to quit: "I will be back strong as a lion in Oschersleben," he also said.

"39 points looks hard as there's only 25 for a win, but it's still possible."

Ferrari has chosen the Frankfurt Motor Show for the launch of a souped-up version of the 458 Italia, the 458 Speciale. Equipped with a 597 hp V8, it is the most powerful V8 Ferrari ever.

Performance numbers released by Ferrari have the 458 Speciale accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 3 seconds, while reaching 200 km/h in 9.1 seconds. Top speed has yet to be announced.

Weighing in at 1290 kilograms, the 458 Speciale is equipped with moveable front and rear flaps and lateral skirts for aerodynamic efficiency. A new electronics system called Side Slip Angle Control (SSC), developed by Ferrari, helps maintains skid control.

Pricing for the 458 Speciale has not been published at this point by Ferrari.

Photo: Ferrari

Toyota has announced the pricing for the different versions of the 2014 Venza, which are now available at Canadian Toyota dealers.

Available with a 2.7 litre 182 hp 4-cylinder engine or a 3.5 litre V6 that produces 268 hp, the Venza is equipped with a sequential 6-speed automatic transmission. Numerous standard features include heated-mirrors with integrated turn signals, convex mirror (for blind spots), floor lighting and an 8-way adjustable power driver seat among others.

Model	Engine	Combined fuel economy (city/highway)	Price
Venza (base)	4-cylinder	9.6L/100 km	$28,695
Venza V6 (base)	V6	8.6L/100 km	$30,495
Venza AWD	4-cylinder	8.8L/100 km	$30,450
Venza AWD V6	V6	9.8L/100 km	$32,250

A number of different equipment packages can be added to the 2014 Venza including XLE, Limited and Limited with Technology Package.

Photo: Toyota