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News 3 Apr, 2013

The latest issue is out now, featuring our exclusive story on the new Audi A4 and full New York Motor Show report

US light vehicle sales continue to grow last month. Automakers delivered better than 1.4m cars and trucks, a 3.5% improvement over March 2012. This translated into a seasonally adjusted annualised rate (SAAR) of 15.27m sales, slightly below analysts' expectation of 15.4m, but more than 1m sales higher than the mark from last March. March 2013 was the fifth consecutive month the SAAR was above 15m.

One of the motoren in the titular Bayerische Motoren Werkeis about to get smaller.

Porsche will begin sales of its first plug-in hybrid in July with prices starting at 110,409 euros in Germany. The 416-hp Panamera S E-Hybrid will debut in China this month.

European car sales shrank again in March, threatening more losses for carmakers in the region after a dismal 2012, according to figures and forecasts.

Faurecia North America Inc.

BMW reported a 13 percent U.S. sales increase in March, cutting into the luxury-auto lead of Mercedes as both brands set records for the month.

Volkswagen brand's vehicle sales rose 3 percent last month from a year earlier with most of the gains coming from one nameplate: the Beetle.

Infiniti knows who will be buying its BMW 1-series rival. 'The target customer is a French lady called Pascale.

Audi already knows how it feels to be global No. 1 in premium-car sales. The brand led in that category in January before falling back to second place behind BMW in February.

There are some entertaining Formula 1 pit-to-driver calls which won't be forgotten and let's face it, most of those come from Kimi Raikkonen. However, Auto123's George East has gone through the archives to give you some of the more overlooked gems over the last decade.

10
“I'm struggling like a pig.” Rubens Barrichello bemoans the ‘sticky' brake pedal on his debut for Honda at the 2006 Australian Grand Prix.

9
“F*****g, f*****g Raikkonen! What a f*****g idiot!” Juan Pablo Montoya after being allegedly blocked by Kimi Raikkonen during qualifying for the 2002 Belgian Grand Prix.

Juan-Pablo Montoya (Williams) and Kimi Raikkonen (McLaren). (Photo: WRi2)

8
“Not bad for a number two driver.” Mark Webber makes his feelings known to Red Bull Racing despite winning the 2010 British Grand Prix. The previous day in qualifying, the team handed the new front wing originally on the Australian's car to teammate Vettel.

7
“Juan, in this lap please, we've seen a deer... we believe it's somewhere on the circuit, so come in cautiously, please”
“Oh, dear!”
“Yeah, a deer... it's like a horse with horns”
“I know, I know... oh dear!” Juan Pablo Montoya clears up any confusion with the Williams team about track based animals during the 2001 Austrian Grand Prix.

6
“Don't worry, I'm pushing like a hell!” Jarno Trulli lets the Toyota team know just how hard he's pushing to catch Coulthard and keep Rosberg at bay during the 2008 Turkish Grand Prix.

5
“Tutto KERS, tutto power!” Fernando Alonso asks his race engineer Andrea Stella for full KERS and full power en route to winning the 2012 German Grand Prix for Ferrari.

4
“Fisico, where does the engine feel poor, is it throttle, is it pick up, is it tied to any particular revs?”
“Everywhere, everywhere!”
Giancarlo Fisichella gives a clear overview of his Renault's lack of power during qualifying for the 2006 Turkish Grand Prix.

Felipe Massa and Rob Smedley, Ferrari. (Photo: WRi2)

3
"Felipe Baby, stay cool!” Ferrari race engineer Rob Smedley tells Felipe Massa to remain focused during the rained off 2009 Malaysian Grand Prix. Teammate Raikkonen had left the grid and his car to go and get an ice-cream and a Coke.

2
“Yes, yes, yes, yes, - I'm doing it all the time. You don't have to remind me every second...” Kimi said during a full course yellow at the 2012 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

1
“Just leave me alone, I know what I'm doing!” Kimi Raikkonen asks the Lotus team to leave him to his own devices during the 2012 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

From GMM

Two F1 correspondents have contradicted reports about allegedly illegal 'splitters' aboard the top Red Bull, Lotus and Mercedes cars.

Italian reports had said F1's governing body warned the teams to make changes before China, after scrutineers flagged the too-flexible front floor solutions in Malaysia recently.

But Jennie Gow, the pitlane reporter for British radio BBC, said on Tuesday that she has "spoken to Lotus and Merc who say FIA splitter story is just that -- a story!"

"Both teams passed tests and no changes to make," she added on Twitter.

German correspondent for Auto Motor und Sport, Tobias Gruner, agreed: "Neither Lotus and Mercedes nor Red Bull was asked to change the splitter. So everybody calm down!"

Photo: WRi2

The opening round of the Asian Le Mans Series has been postponed to August, and the calendar has been re3diced to four events.

The original calendar of the Asian Le Mans Series calendar featured six rounds. However, it has been announced that the races of Shanghai and Ordos, in China have been cancelled.

The race of Zhuhai, which was supposed to host the opening round of the season in May, has been postponed to August. The season is now set to start in August on a brand new circuit of Autopia, in South Korea, which is still under construction.

The participants to Asian Le Mans Series will then fly to Fuji, on September 22nd, then will travel to Zhuhai, October 13th, and then to the final round to be presented in Sentul, Indonesia, December 8th.

Furthermore, the GTE Am class has been cancelled. Instead, the series will accept cars of a more general GT category, which will feature GTE Am-spec cars, but also GTC, and even Japanese Super GT cars with a balance of performance.

All these changes have been made to reduce the cost and give time to new teams to enter the Asian series, which currently suffers from a lack of entrants.

From GMM

The fiery F1 pairing on everybody's lips at present is Sebastian Vettel versus Mark Webber.

But another fascinating battle is brewing at Ferrari.

The sport's journalists are poring over statistics, wondering if there was ever another time when Fernando Alonso - Ferrari's undisputed and imperious number 1 - had been out-qualified by his teammate so many times on the trot.

Some referred to Jarno Trulli at Renault in 2004, others to Lewis Hamilton at McLaren in 2007, but - actually - the five-times-in-a-row defeat in China next weekend would be historic.

In short, after a long slump punctuated by a near-fatal 2009 crash, Felipe Massa is back in the sort of form that almost saw him win the title in 2008.

On the record, Spaniard Alonso insists he is happy that Massa is now strong again.

"It's the best news for the team, because we need to have a competition between the two drivers and now I think all the data that we have is very useful to compare and to analyse to make ourselves better," he said in Malaysia.

Behind the scenes, though, the situation could be more volatile.

"Fernando is exceptional," Sir Jackie Stewart told Brazil's O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper, "but he does not cope well when his teammate is beating him."

Felipe Massa leading Fernando Alonso in Australia. (Photo: WRi2)

At the very least, Alonso can count on the full backing of the fabled Italian team, who have put him on a pedestal rivalled only by Michael Schumacher's a decade ago.

"In the race, Alonso is the best driver I've ever had," Luca di Montezemolo was quoted recently by Spain's El Confidencial newspaper.

The Ferrari president said one-lap pace is more difficult to quantify through the eras, but "in the race itself, yes, he (Alonso) is the best".

However, barely since their partnership began in 2010 has there been another time in which Massa was also leading Alonso in the drivers' points standings.

Referring to the Brazilian, Montezemolo continued: "It is true that at the beginning of last year, something happened in his head and he could not go as (well as) Fernando did. But now he is very relaxed, he has been very good, but we should not forget that there were times when he was even faster than Michael."

"If I have any problems, it is not with the drivers," he added.

From GMM

Red Bull claims it beat McLaren's all-time record for the fastest ever tyre pitstop during the recent Malaysian grand prix.

The reigning champions claim that, before the 'Multi-21' affair kicked off, Sebastian Vettel's first pitstop took the Red Bull mechanics just 2.13 seconds.

The previous record, McLaren's 2.31 seconds, has stood since Germany last year.

Photo: Red Bull Racing

But when Mark Webber came in for his second stop at Sepang, Red Bull stopped the clock at an incredible 2.05 seconds. In fact, the team says it beat McLaren's old record no fewer than five times in Malaysia.

"It's possible this season we'll see the magical two-second barrier breached at some point," Red Bull said in a media statement.

Germany's Auto Motor und Sport claims McLaren's best stop in Malaysia was 2.28 seconds -- just good enough to beat its old record.

Also under McLaren's old record in Malaysia was the Mercedes crew, who turned around Nico Rosberg in 2.29 seconds.

From Audi Motorsport

Team MS RACING is switching to Audi and will be fielding two new R8 LMS ultra cars in the 2013 ADAC GT Masters.

On Tuesday, quattro GmbH handed over the 100th race car from Heilbronn-Biberach, a facility of the Neckarsulm location, to the squad.

Photo: Audi Motorsport

Since 2009, quattro GmbH delivered 100 race cars based on the Audi R8. The Audi R8 LMS ultra meanwhile embodies the third evolution of the GT3 model. For the United States, the line-up also includes a Grand-Am version that won the GT class at the Daytona 24 Hours in January.

Sebastian Asch, last year's champion in the ADAC GT Masters, was present at the handover of the Audi R8 LMS ultra together with his teammate Florian Stoll. Race engineer Ralph Stoll accepted the keys to the car from Dirk Spohr, Head of Customer Management at Audi Sport customer racing.

Fluids are the lifeblood of any vehicle and allow the engine and other systems to operate properly and deliver optimum performance. Among their many different assignments they lubricate, cool down, pressurize, clean, and even help reduce emissions.

You must use the right products and perform regular checkups to make sure all fluids are up to the task.


Engine oil
Every engine needs a specific amount of oil. Typically, you'll find a dipstick with the minimum and maximum levels of oil required for the tank. When you need to add fresh oil, fill it up until you reach the top line.

A couple of times per month, check the oil a short while after running the engine for at least 10 minutes and turning it off. Watch out for leaks! Ideally, you should add no more than 250 ml at a time.

Brake fluid
This fluid generates a pressure on the brake piston, pushing the pads onto the disc. In many of today's vehicles, an exclamation mark will light up on the dashboard when the tank needs filling. How does that happen? Well, it usually means the pads are worn out, since the brake fluid has to travel a longer distance to reach the piston as the pads become thinner.

The clear tank is found inside the engine bay. Do not apply the brakes during your checkup. Add fresh fluid up to the maximum level line is. Then, go see a mechanic to have your brake pads inspected.

Transmission oil
Either red (automatic) or brownish (manual), this oil lubricates every component of the transmission. If your vehicle doesn't come with a transmission oil dipstick, you need to call on a mechanic. A low level often signals a leak.

Whenever you feel like the transmission is more reluctant to get into gear, you should perform a checkup, but only with the engine still running. In most cases, the oil tank for a manual transmission is harder to access, and therefore must be filled by a specialist.

Coolant
This fluid is vital to your engine's performance, especially during hotter months. If there's been overheating or if the cylinder head gasket is no longer perfectly sealed, coolant will be burned and expelled through the exhaust system. Never touch the radiator cap when it's hot!

There are many different types of cooling systems that use different types of coolant. Your best bet is to follow the manufacturer's recommendation in your owner's manual. Coolant typically needs to be changed every 60,000 kilometres or so.

Power steering fluid
This other tank is also found inside the engine bay, with a steering wheel icon on the cap (which is tied to a dipstick). In some vehicles, a light will turn on within the instrument cluster when the fluid drops below the minimum level.

Power steering fluid expands when heated, so you need to adjust based on the engine's temperature. Use the manufacturer's recommended fluid to avoid any problems.

Differential/transfer case oil (AWD/4WD vehicles)
This fluid is the same that manual transmissions use. Occasionally, ask a mechanic to check its condition.

Emission control system fluid
In some cases, mostly with diesel engines, a urea-based liquid is added to further eliminate toxic particles coming out of the catalytic converter. To be safe, you should fill the tank every time you change your engine oil. Otherwise, when it runs empty, the engine simply won't start!

Windshield washer fluid
Driving safely requires a clear field of vision. As a precaution, always carry a spare bottle of windshield washer fluid in your car, especially during winter.

Fuel
Last, but certainly not least, is the liquid that makes your vehicle go. During the cold season, you shouldn't let the fuel tank carry less than a quarter of its capacity to prevent humidity, which can build up in the fuel lines and freeze them.

The future looks bright for hybrid vehicles in the U.S., with a 32% increase in sales during the first two months of 2013 compared with the same period last year, the L.A. Times reports.

The buzz around hybrids can be explained by the latest fuel hikes, the growing number of models available on the market, and their improved track record for reliability.

Despite a 10% drop, Toyota continues to dominate every other hybrid manufacturer with a 62.6% market share. Ford, meanwhile, enjoyed a boost from 5% to 17% following the launch of the new Fusion Hybrid and C-MAX.

All-electric vehicles are doing pretty well, too. The Nissan LEAF is proving more and more popular across the U.S. since production moved from Japan to Tennessee, resulting in a lower, more attractive base price.

While Canadian hybrid sales during the same period have yet to be announced, it's safe to assume the trend is similar.

Source: LA Times

There are cars in this world that have everything going for them. If you've read any of my material over the years (sorry...) you're most likely aware that I love me a good wagon that is German, AWD, turbocharged, and that sports a little extra je ne sais quoi.

The 2013 Audi Allroad is clearly a testament to the fact that my tastes are spot on; no false modesty here! This car is another one of my wet dreams, along with the new 2014 Mercedes Benz E 63 AMG wagon.

The Allroad is not as flamboyant, yet it's the subtle yet robust appearance that especially gets me going. That and the fabulous 2.0 TFSI engine pegged along Audi's Quattro AWD system make this one of the classiest, most efficient, compact luxo wagons on the market. In addition, I would love to add one to my stable.


What is an Audi Allroad?
The Allroad is not an alien concept to North America. Between 2000-‘05, Audi offered an A6-based Allroad which featured the then S4's 2.7L twin-turbo V6. With 250 hp and Quattro on tap, it was one badass wagon.

The new 2013 Audi Allroad is now A4-based (A6 is still available in other markets) and currently the only station wagon version of the A4 offered here. A raised ride height, along with specific grille and fender flares endow it with a clean, rugged appearance.

Technicalities
The 2013 Audi Allroad features the Four-Ringed brands venerable 2.0T 4-cylinder engine. A long-time favourite of mine, it develops 211 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The only available transmission is an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic.

The key element that makes an Audi, well, an Audi is its Quattro AWD. This permanent all-wheel-drive setup sports a self-locking centre differential. The typical torque split is 40/60 front to rear. This ratio changes when necessary for optimized traction. Torque vectoring adds an extra layer of handling performance beyond the centre differential's abilities with calculated and deliberate brake application.

The 2013 Audi Allroad features the Four-Ringed brands venerable 2.0T 4-cylinder engine. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Driving the Audi Allroad
As with most modern Audi products, the 2013 Audi Allroad practically drives itself. This statement can be somewhat discouraging to driving enthusiasts; however, Audi does cater to us with an agile chassis and a delight of a powertrain.

The Allroad's 2.0T TFSI is amongst the most efficient, well-tuned turbocharged 2.0L engines currently on the market. Efficient because I averaged 9L/100 km during my week's test in mixed 60/40 city/highway driving. Well-tuned because despite a low-on-paper output of 211 hp, the 1,765 kg (3,883 lb) station wagon blasts to 100 km/h in just over 6.5 seconds.

Beyond that, the way the 2013 Audi Allroad's TFSI delivers energy sans lag or hesitation. The 8-speed ‘box is always working to maximize the engine's generous torque. In Sport mode “S” (a light nudge of the shifter backwards), the car shifts from relaxed to high alert.

The real trick to the Allroad is that it feels far nimbler and lither than its volume and mass would suggest. At low to moderate speeds, the car's steering is perfectly assisted, and brakes and throttle all work ideally well. The Allroad is tossable and manoeuvrable.

At higher speeds, the Allroad's variable electric power steering's assistance was uneven at times; it would slow down then pick up slightly on an onramp for example.

The 2013 Audi Allroad's ride is faultless. Its solid platform coupled to a fully independent suspension with a German twist make for a drive that is equal parts comfort and sportiness.

The real trick to the Allroad is that it feels far nimbler and lither than its volume and mass would suggest. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Inside and out of the Audi Allroad
In addition, on that note, the 2013 Audi Allroad is a stunner, depending on the chosen exterior color (Ibis or Glacier white are ideal). The current Audi A4 is elegance on wheels. In its wagon form, the Allroad gains a grille that is a bowtie versus the regular grille, which is more of a necktie. Other physical changes include the aforementioned flares, beefed up bumpers and skid plates.

As I noted, there is nothing aesthetically wrong with the Allroad. Let me put it this way: If it doesn't tickle your fancy, you might want to see a doctor.

The 2013 Audi Allroad's cabin is all A4 livery that can be summarized as follows: Clean, proficient and austere. As tested, my $49,700 Premium trimmed car lacked nothing if navigation ($2,000) and a rear parking aid ($400).

Occupants are treated to comfortable front seats and a rear bench that offers room for three abreast and sufficient legroom to match -- all of this, if only for a reasonable road trip. The trunk is well finished and capacious enough, although not quite as much as a Volvo XC70.

The 2013 Audi Allroad's cabin is all A4 livery that can be summarized as follows: Clean, proficient and austere. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre)

Comparing the Audi Allroad
The 2013 Audi Allroad compares most favourably with the XC70. Both put forth an off-road-capable attitude, however, few are ever fooled by looks. They are able to tackle pretty much everything Mother Nature has to throw at us which makes them quite endearing. Actually, the fact that they're wagons makes them so.

The Allroad's base price of $45,100 (XC70: $42,400) is competitive mostly because the 3-Series wagon is no more, and we'll never get the C-Class wagon back.

The bottom line is that if you want a ruggedly cool German wagon; get it now while you can.

From GMM

Having missed out on a race seat with the famous team in 2013, Paul di Resta now hopes to beat McLaren -- at the wheel of a Sahara Force India.

With Lewis Hamilton leaving for Mercedes, Scot di Resta was a top candidate to replace him, before McLaren decided to sign the well-heeled Mexican Sergio Perez.

Boss Martin Whitmarsh admits that signing Perez over di Resta was, in the end, a "very close decision".

However, McLaren then launched the radical new MP4-28, and so far the 2013 Sahara Force India has looked genuinely more competitive.

Paul Di Resta, VJM06. (Photo: Sahara Force India F1 Team)

Indeed, the Silverstone based team - now ending its technical partnership with McLaren - has more than double the famous British team's early points tally.

And that is even despite a terminal flaw with Sahara Force India's new wheel-nut system in Malaysia recently.

"I've a lot of respect for what McLaren do," Paul di Resta is quoted by PA Sport. "Although they are struggling at the moment, they can develop. But we will be pushing to stay in front of them."

He is confident Sahara Force India will again have the measure of McLaren next weekend in China.

"Our performance so far has been far better than people expected, far better than people could probably overhaul in two weeks," said the 26-year-old.