Auto News 5

Car market leader Maruti Suzuki India sold 90,523 units locally in April 2013 for growth of just 0.3% over April 2012.

News 1 May, 2013

An error by Mercedes Austria means that the new Mercedes S-Class has been revealed early

News 1 May, 2013

Nissan chief has revealed more details of its all-new VW Golf rival

News 1 May, 2013

Read our verdict on the Peugeot 2008 and Renault Captur, as well as the 2013 Driver Power manufacturer results

BMW is studying ways to meet the fast-changing demands of China's car buyers to determine whether trends such as tele-dining and a heavy reliance on voice messaging will expand globally.

Nissan has named Daniel Kirchert, a former BMW executive in China, to head its luxury brand Infiniti in the country, as it seeks to expand production and dealerships in the world's biggest auto market.

Safety and braking components supplier TRW Automotive's first-quarter profits fell, but results from China and elsewhere helped mitigate reduced business in the troubled European market.

Volkswagen is developing a 10-speed dual-clutch transmission to help reduce fuel consumption, CEO Martin Winterkorn said.

Porsche SE says an additional 12 hedge funds have dropped a U.S. court appeal in a market manipulation suit focusing on the company's failed attempt to takeover Volkswagen in 2008.

Volkswagen is developing a 10-speed dual-clutch transmission to help reduce fuel consumption, CEO Martin Winterkorn said.

From GMM

Stefano Domenicali insists F1 should not panic over the unknown identity of next year's official tire supplier.

In Bahrain recently, Pirelli's Paul Hembery denied Bernie Ecclestone's claim that a new contract for the Italian marque is "all done".

"Time is of the essence, I would suggest now," he said instead, amid rumours Korean company Hankook might be interested in a 2014-16 FIA tender.

Paul Hembery added: "I don't particularly want to give deadlines but there is a time scale."

Photo: Pirelli

Amid strong criticism within the paddock this year of Pirelli's highly degrading 2013 tires, however, Ferrari team boss Domenicali urged against alarm.

"We can't race without tires unless we return to the time of the Flintstones," he is quoted as joking to Brazil's Totalrace.

"I know that Pirelli has given clear signs of wanting to be with us in the future, which is positive, because there is no championship without tires," added Domenicali.

"I am confident the situation will be resolved in the coming weeks."

A living legend
Legends are built over time. Most require decades, generations even, to become part of the masse's collective psyche. Others take no time at all. These are rare, especially when they spawn from modest backgrounds.

The Subaru WRX, like the Mitsubishi EVO, became the stuff of legends in less than half a decade. What's more, their rivalry on the world platform that is the World Rallye Championship transformed them into pukka objects of desire.

The current 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX, although desirable, makes my skin crawl, particularly in the tested sedan bodystyle. Beyond the awful sheet metal lies a willing, fun, and rewarding car that aims to please its driver. Plenty powerful and fast, its AWD system makes this car a phenomenal four-season means of transportation where the amount of fuel in the tank is the only thing that can slow it down.


What is a Subaru Impreza WRX?
The 2013 Subaru WRX is the next to last step in Subaru's echelon of performance cars. The WRX STI lays claim to that spot. The WRX is available as a sedan or a hatchback, and can be had with one option package that includes such useless items as leather and a sunroof.

The WRX made its debut in North America in 2001 as a 2002, and immediately spawned a diehard cult following in which you can count Miranda, Marie-Laurence, René and moi-même as we all own a WRX from one generation or another.

Technicalities
The 2013 Impreza WRX is motivated by a turbocharged 2.5L flat-4 which generates 265 hp and 244 lb-ft of torque. The STI gains a further 40 hp and 46 torques.

A basic (and as tested) WRX sedan retails for $32,495. A worthwhile extra $900 will get you the hatchback. The aforementioned Limited Package tacks on a supplemental $3,000. The STI requires $4,700 over the base Rex.

All Subaru products are equipped with symmetrical AWD which uses a viscous-coupling limited-slip centre differential. The WRX is aided by a shot-peen, open-type

The 2013 Impreza WRX is motivated by a turbocharged 2.5L flat-4 which generates 265 hp and 244 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the Subaru Impreza WRX
The 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX is as close to an all-terrain performance car as one could ever expect. Unlike the EVO/Ralliart or Golf R, the WRX's independent suspension provides ample travel for skipping snow banks, playing in the dirt, and soaking up potholes.

Two things come about because of the suspension's tuning: The first is an impressively comfortable ride that equals in some ways to that of the Golf R, but that is far more pleasant than the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart's. The other outcome is a very safe handling car. Bodyroll is pronounced yet controlled which indicates to the hard-pushing driver that the edge of traction is nearing. The Mitsus are not as forgiving, but might be a little more fun.

The big flat-4 is boosted at 13.3 psi (0.92 bar) and comes to life around 3,000 rpm. At 4,000 rpm, torque is full-on then comes max horsepower at 6,000 rpm. The 2013 WRX is very quick and covers the ton in 5.4 seconds.

Once the initial lag has passed, the Rex shoots forward with authority but without a sufficient amount of H4 noise. This can be helped simply with the proper installation of an aftermarket axle-back exhaust system.

Working the 5-speed manual box requires a firm hand and precise determination. The cogs are well geared, however, and I'm only writing it because if I don't readers will wonder: The WRX needs a 6th gear. My guess is that the next WRX -- the concept displayed at the NYIAS -- will bring forth this sorely lacking branch to the lever's travel.

Most Subarus have less than ideal steering feel and response. Sadly, the 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX does not escape this issue and I'm also not pleased with the middle pedal as travel is too long and bite is less than I'd like it to be.

Working the 5-speed manual box requires a firm hand and precise determination. The cogs are well geared, however, and I'm only writing it because if I don't readers will wonder: The WRX needs a 6th gear. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and out of the Subaru Impreza WRX
I don't like this car's looks. I would (exceptionally) take it with a hatch. I've said this countless times since 2008, therefore, I'll waste no more space on this subject.

The 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX's cabin is no better. The ergonomics are simple, fit and finish are fair, and the seats are fine. Oh, and the shifter is cheap and ugly, too.

The ergonomics are simple, fit and finish are fair, and the seats are fine. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the Subaru Impreza WRX
The 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX is sadly part of a dying breed of quasi-affordable compact performance cars that includes my beloved VW Golf R. The WRX is the most attainable when power/price ratio is considered and this ensures, in part, its continued success.

What will help is the coming of the next WRX which is sure to make enthusiast drool some more.

Pippa Mann has revealed that she will drive a third entry for Dale Coyne Racing for the upcoming 97th edition of the Indianapolis 500 alongside Justin Wilson and Ana Beatriz.

For the Briton, it will be her second start at the Indy 500; having driven there for Conquest Racing back in 2011 and she has only one other IndyCar race under her belt which was at the Kentucky Speedway where she finished 22nd for Rahal Letterman the same year.

The 29-year-old has competed full-time for the last time when she raced in Indy Lights in 2010 for the second season, finishing fifth in the standings.

Her addition to the grid brings the confirmed Indy 500 field to 30, three short of the traditional car count of 33, although several drivers including Townsend Bell, Jay Howard and Jacques Lazier are all reportedly working on deals.

Pippa Mann. (Photo: IndyCar)

Rust is a yearlong preoccupation for most Canadians. With major temperature changes, a wet climate (that includes acid rain), and an abundance of salt on the roads, conditions are ripe for our vehicles to corrode all the way to the tiniest recesses.

Steel remains pleasantly rust-free in dry climates, so you need either to move to some place like Arizona or take all the necessary actions to minimize the effects of moisture -- none more important than a rustproofing treatment. Whether you pick oil or grease, the main point is to use a quality product and apply it thoroughly. Of course, your best bet is to let a professional handle the work, which is covered by a warranty.


Oil-based treatments
About an hour is all it takes to fully spray a vehicle with oil. High pressure helps the liquid spread across every surface, and down into every crack. However, oil tends to run and, therefore, can eventually be washed away or contaminated, so regular applications are required (ideally once a year). Oil-based treatments usually range from $80-$150, depending on the type of vehicle being treated.

Note that specialized shops use higher-quality oil that won't run or drip as much. Eco-friendly oils are also available.

Grease-based treatments
Thicker than oil, grease is better at fighting moisture. Consequently, reapplications or touch-ups take far less time, and are only necessary every two or three years (although the underside of the vehicle should still be treated annually). On the other hand, grease-based treatments can require up to five hours and cost anywhere between $400 and $700 for a first, complete application.

Other basics to know
Every vehicle should be treated for rust, including new ones. Sure, they've all received the manufacturer's treatment before coming out of the assembly plant, but don't wait a few winters before you protect your car; an annual treatment is always the smartest thing to do.

Dealers also offer their own rustproofing treatment to new car buyers. However, most of them don't use the same specialized products, tools and processes as rustproofing experts.

Warranty
Some companies and shops offer lifetime warranties on their rustproofing products and services, as long as your car gets an annual treatment. These warranties apply to both new and used models that are typically no more than three years old and have clocked fewer than 60,000 kilometres.

In any case, keep your receipts to prove to your future buyer that the vehicle has regularly been treated for rust.

Bottom line: A rustproofing treatment is fairly cheap when you consider the pretty expensive repairs it can save you down the road.

It is a constant source of speculation and debate amongst professionals in the car business: Will EVs, PHEVs, and hybrids ever take over the market. How long will it take for this category of vehicles to represent 10% or even 20% of the North American car park? Do these vehicles truly have a future?

To the last question, my answer is: Yes. However, it'll be a long while before they make up a significant portion of new car sales in the U.S. or Canada. And by significant, I mean 10%. The first issue is education as the population is still generally unaware of what these vehicles actually represent. For many, the “electrical” part scares them off. Then there's the issue of pricing.

The education part of my conclusion stems from the fact that diesel sales in the U.S. are doing quite well. Volkswagen, one of the strongest supporters and proponents of the technology, have experienced significant increases in TDI (diesel) take rates. This is a sign that this clean, efficient, and proven technology is growing in popularity and awareness.

Here are a few stats: 34% of all 9,521 Passats delivered in March of 2013 were TDIs. Of all 37,704 new Volkswagens sold in March in the U.S., 22.6% were diesels. These are encouraging numbers.

It may very well be that the leap from internal combustion (i.e., gas powered) to anything electric seems like too large a step towards “green” and economy. Meanwhile, diesel requires zero changes in driving habits, style or otherwise, except for driving up to a fuel pump instead of a gas pump.

This leads me to further believe a few things: The first is that consumers as a whole are not and will not be ready to accept hybrids, plug-in hybrids and/or electric vehicles en masse for another long while... like 10 years. And by “en masse,” I'm referring to 10% of total new car sales.

I, unfortunately, do not have stats to currently compare “electric” sales to those of diesels. There are more manufactures today offering hybrid alternatives than there are making diesel engine options available. My guess is that hybrids are outselling “diesels” by a margin, but only because they are more widely available.

It will be interesting to see how the Chevrolet Cruze and Mazda6 diesel alternatives do when they arrive in showrooms. The first obstacle for these products will be pricing as they, like most hybrids and diesels, will be presented as premium models. Time will tell if they survive...

The other belief is that (and what would help) if other manufacturers would concurrently make diesel powertrains available to consumers. I'm thinking about Chrysler (Fiat), Ford and Nissan (Renault). This could be the beginnings of a good business case.

I've said it before; these are interesting times in which we are living, automotively speaking of course as I know about little else. In the not-too-distant future, we will look back on the earliest portion of the 21st century as being pivotal in the direction that cars will have taken.

My money is on all of it. There's proof in the fact that the more options/products/choices consumers have, the more they buy.

If you're Volkswagen and have hybrids, diesel, AWD, CUVs, wagons, sedans, convertibles, hatchbacks, and performance cars all under the same roof, it's nearly impossible to not have what a potential buyer might be looking for. Imagine if they bring in the Amarok compact pickup, the up! Microcar and the Touran compact people mover. It'll be tough to compete with all of that... This is why they're aiming for the world's No. 1 spot for 2018.

Pros and Cons*
Pros
This cleancut crossover design offers several advantages. Its optional all-wheel drive, nifty handling, comfortable seats and firm suspension all give it a sporty feel that make it unique.

Cons
You don't go out and grab a Juke for its roominess, which turns out to be rather restricted. Unfortunately, the manual transmission is available only on the front-wheel drive versions and the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is noisy.


Price
The front-wheel drive SV version starts at $19,998. It includes 17-inch alloy wheels, auxiliary audio input jack, hands-free Bluetooth, rear privacy glass, 60/40-split-folding rear seats, high-end cloth seating as well as leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob.

For a $1,300 supplement you can replace the manual transmission with the Xtronic CVT.

The same model (SV) is offered with all-wheel drive for $23,478.

The better equipped SL version can be yours for $23,678 (front-wheel drive) or $27,078 for the all-wheel drive. Model features include the integrated control (I-CON) system, automatic ambient air regulator, heated front seats, the Nissan Intelligent Key with push-button start, plus sunroof.

It's also possible to equip the SL with the leather upholstery and navigation package for $2,600.

Fuel Economy
On front-wheel drive models you get 8.2 L/100 km and 6.4 L/100 km for city/highway, respectively. With the CVT, it's 7.5 L/100 km for urban driving and 6.1 L/100 km on the highway.

The all-wheel drive 2013 Juke Nissan comes with CVT only, rating 8 L/100 km in the city and 6.6 L/100 km on the open road.

Exterior Styling
This stylish crossover shows off a really nice look. Its oversized antifog headlights make heads swivel. Based on the Versa platform, the curvaceous Juke certainly struts its stuff.

Powertrain
The 2013 Nissan Juke is equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, providing an output of 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.

Standard front-wheel drive versions come with 6-speed manual transmission or optional CVT.

All-wheel drive versions are delivered by continuously variable transmission CVT.

Cargo Capacity
In the trunk area alone, there is cargo space of up to 297 litres. When rear seats are folded down, the cargo area increases to 1,017 litres. Several configurations and compartments are available.

Safety
The 2013 Nissan Juke comes with six airbags. The automaker also offers active front headrests, ABS, stability control and the priority braking system, which reduces engine power when brakes and accelerator are applied simultaneously, thereby slowing down or immobilizing the vehicle in complete safety.

Comparable Models
Kia Soul, Nissan Cube, Scion xB, Suzuki SX4, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Matrix

Photo: Nissan

From GMM

F1 is sticking with its telemetry supplier, despite constant problems so far in 2013.

The sport switched to a new supplier over the winter, to handle the telemetry link between race control and the cars.

The new system - supplied by Riedel - controls the allowed deployment of DRS, marshal flag warning lights in the cockpit, GPS and other functions, but it has not been working well so far.

"But," reported Autosprint's Alberto Antonini, "the FIA has confirmed the continuation of the same telemetry system, in the hope that the 'bugs' can be resolved."

Photo: Renault Sport

Price Range: $54,300 and up

Description: ">BMW's Z4 roadster is a one-of-a-kind, two-seat drop-top that focuses on bringing the Bavarian brand's core attributes into a carefree, fun-in-the-sun package. Nimble, agile and ready to please, this compact sports car is popular with driving enthusiasts and luxury enthusiasts alike.

Consider it alongside models like the Mercedes SLK, Audi TT Roadster and Lexus IS-C. The 2013 BMW Z4 differentiates itself with a taut, dynamic look that sees the sheet-metal skin stretched tightly against the car's structure and accented with strong character lines, curves, and sculpting. Signature fender vents and halo-ringed headlights help set the Z4 apart on the road.

Numerous models and option packages are available, too helping the 2013 BMW Z4 to suit a variety of different tastes and budgets. All models feature a hard-panel, fully motorized roof that disappears in mere seconds.


Drivetrain: A variety of highly efficient engines power the driving experience in the 2013 BMW Z4. Standard sDrive28i models get a 2.0L 241-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, good for 0-100 km/h in just under six seconds and a combined fuel economy below 8L/100km. The 2013 BMW Z4, in sDrive35i trim gets a 3.0L twin-turbo straight-6 engine, developing 300 horsepower and reducing the acceleration figure to just over 5 seconds.

A 335-horsepower version of this engine powers the potent sDrive35is model, adding additional performance measures for an even more engaging experience.

An available 8-speed Sport automatic gearbox helps maximize power delivery and fuel efficiency. A 7-speed Sport double-clutch transmission is available on select models too, and amounts to a performance-enhancing alternative to a conventional automatic gearbox. Both transmissions offer available paddle-shift control in the 2013 BMW Z4.

Consider it if: you're after a potent blend of style, efficiency, technology, and toplessness. The Z4 is known for its surprisingly comfortable ride in all situations, as well as a space-optimized interior that comfortably fits two adults.

Skip it if: you need rear seats or aren't interested in a convertible as the Z4 only comes as a drop-top.

Other Notes: Look for feature content including Bluetooth, navigation, automatic xenon lights, automatic wipers, automatic climate control, and heated seats. BMW's iDrive system is also on board the 2013 BMW Z4, allowing for easy control of numerous vehicle functions through a central command interface.

The adaptive M suspension system allows the Z4 to instantly recalibrate its shock absorber stiffness, switching between comfortable cruiser and stiffened-up track weapon at the touch of a button.

Parking assist and a variety of remotely linked Smartphone apps allow further convenience and security. Further, a BMW Apps interface allows drivers to connect with web radio, Facebook, Twitter, and various web services right from the iDrive interface.

Don't Miss: The M Sport Package. This adds a unique wheel and tire combination, special badging, sports seats, a sports steering wheel, and various cosmetic and chassis upgrades to tie it all together in the 2013 BMW Z4. An exclusive “Hyper Orange” package is also available on the Z4, adding a unique paint hue, matching interior trim on the doors, dash and seats, and underscoring a distinctively dynamic character.

Photo: BMW

From GMM

McLaren is refusing to write off the 2013 season, despite lagging a huge 86 points behind the lead of the constructors' championship after just four races.

Having gambled on a radical new car for the new campaign, McLaren is now trailing its top-four rivals and even Force India, while leading driver Jenson Button is a mere tenth in the drivers' points.

But even though the sweeping rules changes for 2014 are looming large, including the switch from V8 to V6 power, boss Martin Whitmarsh said he is reluctant to call time on 2013 and move the team's focus to a fresh start for next year.

"Maybe I'm wrong," he is quoted by France's L'Equipe, "but I refuse to think about 2014. I want us to be competitive, I want us to return to the front and to go to every grand prix thinking that we can win."

Photo: McLaren F1 Team

However, even teams much closer to the top in 2013 - like back-to-back China and Bahrain pole sitter Mercedes - are already beginning to think about 2014.

Toto Wolff, the Brackley based squad's new co-owner and director, told F1's official website that resources are starting to be switched towards 2014.

"We're already working on 2014," he said, "and we'll gradually raise the percentage of people working on next year's car. I would say that in May we will reach a point where more than 50 per cent will work on the 2014 car."

Moreover, Wolff said Mercedes' approach to the second half of 2013 will not be unique.

"There is no doubt that at a point in the summer everybody will switch their main resources to the 2014 car, as this is a very complex and complicated machine," he explained.

"Of course it all depends on where you are in the standings. Those who are fighting for the title will of course concentrate longer on this year's car."

This weekend marks the start of the new season of the DTM at Hockenheim and is the home fixture for Mercedes-Benz. This will mark the second season for Canadian Robert Wickens of Toronto in this hotly disputed series.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz Motorsport

This year, Mercedes-Benz has quite consciously taken the decision to field a young squad of drivers. Joining Gary Paffett, the most successful driver currently competing in the DTM and DTM runner-up in 2012, no less than five talented 'young guns' will line up at the start in their DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupés.

With an average age of 23 years, the Mercedes-Benz team of drivers is the youngest of all the three manufacturers contesting the DTM.

Mercedes-Benz junior drivers include Daniel Juncadella, Roberto Merhi, Christian Vietoris, Pascal Wehrlein and Canadian Robert Wickens.

Photo: Mercedes-Benz Motorsport

"Here we go, can't wait for my second DTM season!” said Wickens, 24, the driver of the STIHL Mercedes AMG C-Coupé.

“I've driven on many tracks during my career, but the fantastic atmosphere in the Motodrom and in the Mercedes grandstand is simply the best and I get quite excited when I start thinking about the season-opener. The introduction of DRS and the two different tire compounds for the new season not only promise more excitement for the spectators in the stands and at home in front of their TVs, but more action for us drivers out on the track. My first DTM season was a training year, but this season, I now really want to go on the offensive and to consistently finish in the points and maybe achieve a podium”, Wickens added.