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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

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

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.

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.

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)

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.

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."

Chrysler Group may get an upgrade in its credit rating in the next 12 months, said Standard and Poor's, which raised Chrysler's outlook Tuesday to "positive" from "stable."

The cost of a completed hydrogen fuel cell vehicle today is 1/20th of what it was when current prototypes were being developed, Toyota says, paving the way for a workable business model and improved sales prospects.

PSA Peugeot Citroen labour unions have voted to back plans to shut the Aulnay plant and axe thousands of jobs.

2013 Cadillac CTS Premium Sport Wagon

Every CTS is solid and luxurious, and this wagon is no exception.

Give Cadillac credit for taking on the European premium marques in a segment that they've pretty much owned up 'til now -- the luxury wagon. In fact, it would have been easy for Cadillac to forgo this body style altogether, given that the SRX crossover checks many of the same boxes as the wagon, on paper at least.

Photo Gallery: 2013 Cadillac CTS Premium Sport Wagon - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine

Photo Gallery: 2013 Cadillac CTS Premium Sport Wagon - Editors' Notebook - Automobile Magazine

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Platinum Equity, a California private equity firm controlled by Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores, said it has merged two of its Michigan automotive suppliers.

Ford today said it sold more Lincoln MKZ sedans in April than in the first three months of the year combined, as the luxury brand began to recover from lengthy production and distribution delays on the car.

Older model Ford Crown Victoria police cars are the focus of an upgraded defect investigation by federal safety regulators, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said today.

In another embarrassing failure to understand what they're supposed to be regulating, the NHTSA has announced that they are investigating a and#8220;coolant leakand#8221; in Porsche

The new CEO of satellite radio company Sirius XM Radio thinks radio is a good business, but for the future he said opportunities may lie with in-car services like automated safety.

2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible First Drive

Are you sure you want a supercar?

Skirting Mono Lake in a 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible, I think back to the last time I was in this part of California. I was in grade school on vacation with my mother, grandmother, and younger sister. We were in grandma's aging Chrysler minivan, and its three-speed automatic transmission was not long for this world.

Photo Gallery: 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible First Drive - Automobile Magazine

Photo Gallery: 2013 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible First Drive - Automobile Magazine

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TRW has reported first quarter 2013 financial results with sales of US$4.2bn (flat on last year) and net earnings of US$162m, 21% down on the same period of last year, as tough conditions in Europe weighed down on positives elsewhere.

Ford said it began operating today in Myanmar, a country isolated for five decades until the United States eased sanctions last year.

ROAD TEST EDITOR JONATHAN WONG: We all know a