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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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Faurecia North America Inc.

From GMM

Porsche has refused to deny rumours it is lining up Mark Webber to lead its charge with a new Le Mans prototype next year.

Amid the 'Multi-21' affair and claims the Australian's place is now untenable alongside Sebastian Vettel at Red Bull, German newspaper Bild reported that the 36-year-old and Porsche have "already been in contact" regarding a 2014 deal.

Asked about the Webber rumours, a spokesman for the carmaker told SID news agency: "Porsche already has a squad of internationally successful works drivers.

"This is a very good basis for the assignment of the corresponding (Le Mans) cockpits. Whether and to what extent additional drivers are added will be decided at a later date," spokesman Oliver Hilger added.

Mark Webber and Christian Horner. (Photo: Red Bull Racing)

When is blocking justified in a Sprint Cup race? That question arose on the final restart of the NASCAR race at Auto Club Speedway in California two weeks ago.

Tony Stewart confronted Joey Logano on pit lane after the race was over. He said that the young driver blocked him on the final restart.

NASCAR officials said neither incident required a penalty.

Photo: NASCAR

Here's what the Dale Earnhardt Jr., the current points leader thinks of blocking:

“Well, I think that every driver is going to have a different opinion. My opinion is that ‑‑ I don't ‑‑ I might block in certain situations. I would expect and accept to be blocked in certain situations. But you've got to give me racetrack. You've got to give me somewhere to run. You can't just run me up into the fence. You've got to give me a lane. You've got to give me ‑‑ if you give me a reasonable amount of racetrack to race on, then I really can't complain in regards to what you're trying to do to maintain the position.

Also it depends on what time in the race it is. Is it time to be blocking? Is the position that important at that moment in time? Again, everybody will have a different opinion.

But when somebody blocks me, I'm not blown away by the notion. You know, some guys are more adamant about it than others. Some guys block stronger or block the whole racetrack and think that's okay. But everybody has got a different opinion. You've got to give me some racetrack where I can compete, give me a fair opportunity to race you cleanly and race you with respect, and you'll get the same from me.

You know, I'm not going to say that I've never blocked anybody because I have, and you do, you will. Being in certain situations, that's your only alternative. But you've got to give people racing room or expect to get turned around or expect to make a few people upset.”

Photo: NASCAR

On the other hand Ryan Newman thinks blocking is not a NASCAR style. As Tony Stewart's teammate and employee Newman might be a little biased.

“ I think that there were true frustrations in the blocking,” said Newman. “I think blocking is a chicken way to drive, not to ‑‑ it's just something I don't do. If you've got a run on me, take it. If I can get through the corner better than you, then we'll race, but blocking is an IndyCar form or F1 form or an open wheel type move it seems like. It's not to say they don't do it in NASCAR; obviously they do, but to me it's just a chicken way of driving and not very respectful for the guys around you. You're there to race, you're not there to block. So I don't know what's going to happen. I don't know if there will be retaliation, I don't know if they'll talk and never have retaliation, who knows, good question.”

Now we're not certain whether GM pays out bonuses upon results, but if so then the Cadillac design team must be tripping to the bank with suitcases full of greenbacks. After all, has there ever been a more radical turnaround of a company than what we've witnessed from Cadillac over the past decade?

Yes, what was once Grandpa's favourite brand is now taking on the best from around the globe and kicking some serious world-class butt!

Much of this success lies with the company's golden child: the CTS. From what we've just seen, those designers are likely to need slightly larger suitcases in 2014.


The new Cadillac CTS
It barely seems like yesterday since Cadillac wowed us with its first CTS, yet 2014 hails in the 3rd generation. However, as much as the first gen made us gasp and cry, “You're kidding me, that's a Cadillac?!” The new 2014 Cadillac CTS is more about refinement and taking it all to the next level.

For 2014, the Cadillac CTS is longer (127 mm in length, including a 1.2” longer wheelbase), lower (the roofline and cowl -- the base of the windshield -- are about an inch lower), and leaner (its weight loss of 200 lbs is pretty impressive). There's also more luxury, more performance and a whole array of new high-tech bits and bobs.

Exterior
Cadillac's shield grille and signature vertical lighting elements evolve on the 2014 Cadillac CTS. The grille is wider and more detailed, while the headlamps flow up with the hood line, incorporating crystalline LED lights.

Active grille shutters are also now included on some models.

Interior
The cabin of the CTS has always offered a pleasing cockpit-like feel, and this continues for 2014. At the core of the 2014 CTS is CUE, Cadillac's infotainment system that uses smartphone/tablet-influenced controls to command and access information. Bluetooth connectivity with natural voice recognition is standard with CUE, along with USB and SD card ports.

An 8” high-resolution colour touchscreen is standard fitment in the 2014 Cadillac CTS, yet there is also a 12.3” high-resolution unit available.

The 2014 Cadillac CTS offers a choice of eight interior environments, each trimmed with authentic wood, carbon fiber or aluminum.

The new CTS sedan is also the first Cadillac to offer Automatic Parking Assist which enables the car to parallel park itself.

Other technologies include Cadillac's first 20-way adjustable front seats, heated and cooled (ventilated) front seats and a heated steering wheel, electronic parking brake (and there's even something called a motorized cup holder lid in the center console, but no data available yet on the closed-to-open acceleration times!).

Performance and handling
If there's one outstanding quality the 2014 Cadillac CTS is surely known for it's superb handling and performance. Anyone who's driven those gorgeous V series models will certainly back us up on that, and this continues for 2014.

Lightweight features, including Cadillac's first aluminum door structures, contribute to the reduced/lower weight of the new 2014 CTS and help create a near 50/50 weight balance. And, for the first time, Magnetic Ride Control is available on base models.

The 2014 Cadillac CTS is available with a naturally aspirated 3.6L (321 hp) V6. However, the big news for 2014 is the new Twin-Turbo (420 hp) V6 (estimated 0-100kph of 4.6 seconds). Both come standard with Cadillac's first ever 8-speed transmission, which is sure to make a difference in ride comfort and fuel economy.

Photo: Kevin ''Crash'' Corrigan

Safety
Together with the standard 10 airbags, the availability of AWD not only enhances performance but safety as well.

The 2014 Cadillac CTS also features GM's first automatic safety-belt tightening system that automatically takes the slack out of the safety belts once buckled, fitting them perfectly to each occupant.

There is also a Driver Awareness Package available which includes Cadillac's patented Safety Alert Seat technology. This uses vibrating pulses in the driver's seat to alert the driver to an imminent collision or to vehicles in the car's blind spot. The seat vibrates on the left or right side, or both sides simultaneously, depending on the direction of the risk.

Summary
As we said, the new 2014 Cadillac CTS is upping the stakes in the midsize luxury market. So, while the Cadillac designers go searching for larger suitcases there are probably several of their German counterparts feeling just a tad uncomfortable!

From GMM

Mark Webber may have been the victim of the 'Multi-21' affair at Sepang, but the Australian's behaviour also raised a few eyebrows.

As his teammate Sebastian Vettel ignored team orders and launched an overtaking attack, Webber pushed the sister Red Bull almost into the pitwall at 300kph.

He then showed his middle finger to his German cohort, and after the chequered flag was flown, he swerved into Vettel at high speed in one final act of frustration and anger.

The FIA, however, remained silent, and not a single stewards' investigation was launched.

"Other drivers have been punished for much less," an unnamed boss of a rival team is quoted by respected Auto Motor und Sport correspondent Michael Schmidt.

Photo: Red Bull Racing

On April 21st, Porsche will host the world premiere of the new 2014 Panamera in Shanghai, China. The car will arrive in Canadian showrooms this fall with the following MSRPs:

• Panamera: $89,500
• 4: $94,800
• S: $106,600
• 4S: $112,500
• S E-Hybrid: $125,900
• GTS: $129,400
• 4S Executive: $143,600
• Turbo: $161,500
• Turbo Executive: $184,100

Next year, Porsche will add Turbo S and Turbo S Executive models (pricing has yet to be announced).

The new, more swept-back rear window creates an even more extended silhouette. The rear section itself was also redesigned, and includes a wider spoiler.

An all-new 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 engine will be available with S and 4S models, delivering 20 more horsepower than the 4.8L V8.

Meanwhile, the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid achieves a mind-boggling 3.1L/100km -- a 56% improvement over the 2013 model. It can also travel 36 kilometres in EV mode.

Panamera S E-Hybrid 2014 (Photo: Porsche)

Porsche Panamera Turbo Executive (Photo: Porsche)

Here's a nice photo of Sebastian Vettel's most precious tool - the steering wheel of his Red Bull RB9, he nicknamed “Hungry Heidi”.

Photo: WRi2

The function of most buttons and switches is well known, such as RADIO (to talk to the team), BBAL (to adjust brake balance), N (neutral), PIT (set speed limiter in the pit lane), OK (to acknowledge a message to the team).

Photo: WRi2

The function of the knobs is also well known: CLUTCH (to adjust the clutch bite point), KERS (to change the release of the KERS), TYRE (to tell the car computer the type of tires is fitted on the car), MIX (to adjust the fuel mixture) and FW.EN (to tell the team how to adjust the angle of the front flaps during a pit stop).

Photo: WRi2

The button and knobs are colour coded to make Vettel's life easier. It's easier to find them quickly when driving at 320 km/h!

Formula 1 fans should know that Amalgam Fine Model Cars, located in the U.K. makes stunning full-size replicas of F1 steering wheels. Click here to visit that page.

Subaru Canada will recall 25,732 Legacy and Outback vehicles from 2005-2009 because corrosion may perforate the centre and rear brake lines (due to the design of the fuel tank protector).

This would cause a leak in the brake system potentially increasing stopping distances. Consequently, Subaru dealers will inspect all affected vehicles and either apply an anti-corrosion coating to the lines, or replace them as necessary.

Source: Transports Canada

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.

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.

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