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BMW plans to raise the mandatory retirement age for its top management to 62 from 60 but the company isn't going far enough if it wants to keep the expertise of long-serving executives.

Since 1951, Pininfarina has designed all Ferrari production cars except the 1973 Dino 308 GT4, which was done by Bertone. But the LaFerrari that debuted at the Geneva auto show this month was styled entirely in-house, and that got tongues wagging.

The latest issue of the Automotive News Europe monthly e-magazine goes live on Monday, April 1. Our cover story examines how Audi and Mercedes-Benz are aggressively aiming to topple BMW from its position as the world's best-selling premium brand.

Audi and BMW are expanding their diesel lineups in the United States as consumers are drawn by the performance and as a way to counter rising gasoline prices.

It has been just over two years since Mary Barra became the surprise pick to steer General Motors' global vehicle development. She'll get a report card soon.

From GMM

Pirelli has ruled out making changes to its 2013 product, despite Red Bull and Mercedes complaining that this year's tires are penalising the best cars.

Mercedes' Toto Wolff, and Red Bull's Dr Helmut Marko, suggested in Malaysia that the sport's Italian supplier has agreed to bring modified tires to Bahrain late next month.

But we reported on Wednesday that Lotus and Ferrari - both much happier with Pirelli's current tires - would 'veto' any changes on the grounds that they do not pose a safety risk.

Ferrari's Stefano Domenicali was quoted by Auto Motor und Sport: "It makes no sense to panic after two races."

Photo: Pirelli

Paul Hembery, Pirelli's motor sport director, has also now ruled out making changes as the result of Mercedes and Red Bull's complaints.

"If we did," he is quoted by Spain's AS newspaper, "and we ended up favouring one team, we could have the championship over by Monza."

The entire tire saga has quietened in the past days, perhaps because Red Bull and Mercedes monopolised the highest four finishing places in Malaysia.

"They (Red Bull) have good performance," said Hembery, "perhaps they would like to have more, but I'm sure that's the same for other teams too."

Stefano Domenicali agrees that "some teams have overreacted about the tires".

Paul Hembery continued: "This is F1; everyone trying to gain advantage over the others. If you have the whole paddock against you, then you have to take action."

The timing of the controversy is slightly uncomfortable for Pirelli, given its negotiations with Bernie Ecclestone and the FIA about remaining F1's sole tire supplier beyond 2013.

Paul Hembery said he hopes to receive news on this front "soon".

From GMM

As the 'Multi-21' affair races on, the F1 rumour mill is already beginning to churn out potential candidates for Mark Webber's seat.

The Australian's entourage and Red Bull have already denied rumours Webber will step down before his current contract finishes, but his future beyond 2013 is much more clouded.

There have even been some calling for Sebastian Vettel to be suspended for a race.

"It is a very serious affair if you tell a driver to do something and he doesn't do it," McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh agrees. "It could also be a breach of his contract."

Photo: Red Bull Racing

That prospect has excited Switzerland's Blick newspaper, with veteran correspondent Roger Benoit pointing out that capable reserve driver Sebastien Buemi is waiting impatiently in the wings.

Red Bull also has its Toro Rosso drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne to choose between.

Toro Rosso team boss Franz Tost told Blick: "There will certainly be no change of drivers between Red Bull and Toro Rosso."

Whitmarsh agreed: "You cannot manage these guys by discipline or by threat of broken contract -- unless you are seriously exasperated."

Bernie Ecclestone adds: "I don't think I'd give that (a race ban for Vettel) any consideration. (Instead) I'd say to Sebastian, 'in future don't make me look an idiot'."

More likely is that Red Bull will push ahead in 2013 before seriously considering whether Webber, 36, can work together with trust and harmony with his now obvious enemy Vettel in the longer term.

Germany's Bild newspaper said another Australian, Ricciardo, could be a real option for 2014.

The report also mentioned rising Red Bull-contracted star Antonio Felix da Costa, even though his more likely next step would be a Toro Rosso race seat.

According to Der Spiegel, a Red Bull spokesperson is quoted as saying deliberations about contracts for 2014 will begin "in the summer".

Asked whether Webber and Vettel will continue to work together, F1 chief executive Ecclestone continued: "Yes, of course they will, obviously they will."

As for whether he was talking about 2014, he admitted: "I don't know about that."

The next-generation 2014 Kia Soul, which is largely inspired from the 2012 Track'ster concept, made a first splash today at the New York Auto Show.

Built on a stiffer platform than the outgoing model, the 2014 Kia Soul offers more interior room for passengers and cargo, as well as extra features and improved driving dynamics.

As far as styling is concerned, Kia's signature grille is present, but it's been reworked to more closely resemble the concept's. The cabin boasts soft-touch materials on the instrument panel, centre console and door panels. Leather seats are available.

The base model is powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder engine entirely made of aluminum, while higher-end models get a 2.0L unit.

The 2014 Kia Soul will go on sale in the third quarter of this year. Pricing will be announced in the meantime.

Photo: Kia

From GMM

Sahara Force India has extended its engine deal with customer supplier Mercedes.

When the Silverstone based team was considering its 2013 driver lineup, many observers saw Adrian Sutil and Jules Bianchi's respective links to Mercedes and Ferrari as among the keys to Force India's final choice.

Ultimately, Sahara Force India signed the reportedly Mercedes-linked German Sutil.

Photo: Sahara Force India

On Thursday, the team said in a statement it has indeed extended its Mercedes deal for the "long-term", beginning with the start of the new turbo V6 era next year.

From 2014, this will include the supply of Mercedes' engine, energy recovery system, gearbox and hydraulics.

Sahara Force India began its relationship with Mercedes in 2009.

Currently, McLaren supplies Force India's gearbox and hydraulics. Reuters quoted a spokesman as saying McLaren's arrangement with Force India will end.

"Our new agreement with Mercedes-Benz for the coming years is the most significant in the history of Sahara Force India," said team boss Vijay Mallya.

McLaren's long-term relationship with Mercedes is in doubt, amid rumours the famous British team could pair with returning engine supplier Honda from 2015.

"It is a significant milestone to announce our first long-term agreement for powertrain supply under the 2014 regulations," said Mercedes' Toto Wolff on Thursday. "We hope it will mean Mercedes-Benz and Sahara Force India working together for the entire life cycle of the new powertrain generation."

Unveiled today at the New York Auto Show, the 2014 Kia Optima offers more standard features and options than ever. The popular midsize sedan also returns with European-inspired styling, “combining style and substance in an affordably priced vehicle.”

Designers enhanced the Optima's front and rear fascias, as well as the brand's signature grille. Front LED positioning lights and LED taillights are available.

Under the hood of the 2014 Kia Optima, three powertrains can be had, including a 2.4L four-cylinder GDI engine, a 2.0L four-cylinder GDI turbocharged variant, and a hybrid system.

Activating the Optima's push-button ignition brings two new displays to life: an available 4.3” TFT LCD instrument cluster and optional high-resolution 8” navigation and telematics screen. Meanwhile, an optional new Blind Spot Detection system, which includes rear cross-traffic alert and rear parking sensors, boosts safety and peace of mind.

Pricing for the 2014 Kia Optima will be announced closer to its on-sale date, set in the third quarter of this year.

Photo: Kia

Alexey Dudukalo will be replaced by Mikhail Kozlovskiy at the Lada team for Marrakech, following the accident with his teammate, James Thompson during qualifying.

The team was forced to withdraw both Lada Granta Sports from Sunday's races, as they were too heavily damaged to be repaired in time.

It looks like this accident will cost Dudukalo his place in the team. It was his first race for Lada after a first season in WTCC last year, driving a Seat Leon sponsored by Lukoil.

Lukoil, the Russian oil company, decided to back Lada's return to the WTCC in 2013, and Dudukalo followed his sponsor.

But Lukoil Racing's bosses decided to replace Dudukalo in Marrakech by his young fellow countryman Mikhail Kozlovskiy, who currently drives a Lada Granta in the Russian Touring Car Championship for Lukoil Racing.

A few months back, we witnessed the launch of the all-new Santa Fe Sport which was basically the replacement for the outgoing Santa Fe. So, what's this new XL all about?

Well, Hyundai has enjoyed tremendous success with its Santa Fe since the model first debuted back in 2001. In fact, in a recent study, the Santa Fe ranked No. 1 in nameplate awareness within the midsize segment, and it boasts the highest conquest sales amongst its competitors. However, more and more buyers are now seeking 7-passenger SUVs and the company is looking to cash in on the trend.

Of course, that was the idea behind the now-discontinued Veracruz, except the vehicle didn't quite live up to the company's expectations and sales were rather sluggish. So now, Hyundai decided to play it safe and stick with the tried-and-true Santa Fe nameplate. Put simply, the XL is a long-wheelbase version of the new Sport and yet, it's actually much more than that!


Pushing its weight aroundAimed squarely at the intermediate SUV buyer, the new XL appears as striking in appearance as the new Sport. In fact, I'd deem it slightly better as the design carries the additional length (215mm) with ease and almost makes the Sport model appear short and stubby when parked alongside.

Powered by a 3.3L GDI V6 producing 290hp and 252 lbs-ft of torque, linked to a 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual mode, the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe XL is a sprightly vehicle which almost questions the validity of the shorter model being badged “Sport.”

Overall weight plays a large role in this, as does power-to-weight ratios, as the XL is the lightest vehicle amongst its competitors (267 kg less than the Ford Explorer, and 105 kg lighter than its closest competitor, the Toyota Highlander). Of course, some might say that the larger Explorer is bound to weigh more as it's often purchased as a tow vehicle. Indeed it is, however, whereas the Explorer needs to be optioned to tow 5,000 lbs, the new 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe XL comes standard with a 5,000 lb tow rating so this is no lightweight when it comes to capabilities!

Powered by a 3.3L GDI V6 producing 290hp and 252 lbs-ft of torque, the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe XL is a sprightly vehicle which almost questions the validity of the shorter model being badged “Sport.” (Photo: Kevin Corrigan)

Long list of amenities
What's also quite surprising is just how well-appointed the new XL is. Standard equipment includes heated front seats, power windows, driver's seat power lumbar support, a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth®, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control, plus more. Step up in trim and features such as a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, leather seating surfaces, power liftgate, and a panoramic sunroof become available.

Of course, buyers can source these luxury features on many other SUVs but, until now, could this be done at Hyundai pricing? The base 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe XL starts at just $29,999 (for the FWD which is only available on the base model here in Canada). The premium model takes this up to $34,999; the Luxury comes in at $39,199; and the top-of-the-line Limited tops out the range at $42,899. With pricing like this, the company is expecting volume sales, and I would agree with them. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised to see demand outstrip supply which has been the case in the past with Hyundai products.

Standard equipment includes heated front seats, power windows, driver's seat power lumbar support, a six-speaker audio system, etc. (Photo: Kevin Corrigan)

As the saying goes: Safety comes as standard, and all XL models boast an array of safety features including seven airbags inclusive of a driver's knee airbag. All models (expect the 2WD Base) feature the company's advanced All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with Active Cornering Control (ACC), and a Driver Selectable Steering Mode (DSSM) system.

Now for those of you who have read my previous report on the new Santa Fe Sport, you will know that I was rather displeased with the aforementioned DSSM system. Now, whether the designers read my review and took note (I very much doubt it!), or they simply came to the realization themselves that there was indeed a problem, this issue has now been addressed. I'm therefore pleased to announce that the settings have now been altered/improved so that the Normal mode feels like the previous Sport mode, and Sport mode is now where it should have been in the first place.

Safety comes as standard, and all XL models boast an array of safety features including seven airbags inclusive of a driver's knee airbag. (Photo: Kevin Corrigan)

Even more bang for your buck
All in all, I very much like the new 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe XL. The option of a 7-passenger or 6 if you go for the 2nd row captain's chair option (my choice), the Santa Fe is sure to be a hit. It ticks all the right boxes and offers true value-for-money, which is hardly surprising as that's precisely what the Hyundai brand has always delivered.

From GMM

There could be truth in Sebastian Vettel's claim that he didn't deliberately ignore team orders in Malaysia last Sunday.

Indeed, after happily celebrating the Sepang win initially, the German's face only turned to thunder once Mark Webber angrily repeated the order-code 'Multi-21' as they prepared to go onto the podium.

"I talked to him (Webber) and he came straight to the point. That was when it struck me like lightning," Vettel told F1's official website.

Germany's Sport Bild claims Vettel might really have overlooked, misunderstood or minimised the significance of the 'Multi-21' order -- which may have been sent to the drivers by way of a digital display message on the steering wheel.

Dr Helmut Marko said on Austrian Servus TV: "We have this certain code - the '21' - which was told by the race engineer on two occasions. There was no response."

No joy in Malaysia for the first Red Bull 1-2 finish of 2013. (Photo: WRi2)

Elsewhere, the team orders scandal triggered by Sunday's events rolls on.

Bernie Ecclestone has chimed in, saying that if he was a reigning triple world champion like Vettel, he also would have ignored the order.

"I'd probably do exactly the same as Kimi Raikkonen did when he came back and they gave him some instructions. I'd say 'I know what I'm doing'," said the F1 chief executive.

Peter Mucke, a former mentor of the once rising Formula BMW driver Vettel, agrees: "A driver who wants to win the world championship must be uncompromising.

"Racers are selfish and will be so even in a team sport," he told Der Tagesspiegel newspaper.

The saga has even spilled into an argument between Christian Horner and Flavio Briatore, after the controversial former Renault boss accused Horner of losing control of Red Bull and being "weak".

Flavio Briatore had told Italian radio Rai: "Christian didn't even have the strength to get on the podium because they're terrified with a driver in charge instead of the team manager."

Red Bull hit back in a statement: "A 'weak' team principal would be unable to steer a team to three consecutive world championships and oversee and manage the extensive teamwork that goes into this achievement -- while managing two talented racers."

At the same time, Briatore backed away from the controversy, insisting his comments were "misinterpreted" because he has "a lot of respect" for Horner.

"As a team principal, I think Chris has done an excellent job not only for Red Bull, but for formula one in general, and he is still undoubtedly doing so," he said.

Price Range: $52,500 and up

Description: With an eye for safety, confidence and all things sensibly Swedish, the 2013 Volvo C70 combines four-seat comfort and space with a roof-optional motoring experience that's big on luxury and peace of mind.


A power-retractable hard-top flips and folds into the C70's trunk at the touch of a button, effectively offering owners two cars in one: a sleek touring coupe and a classy convertible. Said convertible roof goes from open to close in half a minute.

Standard, Premier Plus and Platinum models help shoppers select the 2013 Volvo C70 that's just right for their tastes; while an array of confidence-enhancing features creates a worry-free driving experience. Available dual-xenon headlamps, rear fog-lamps, a rollover protection system, side-impact protection system and security lighting are all on board making the Volvo C70 as safe as it is upscale.

Drivetrain: All 2013 Volvo C70 models employ Volvo's silky T5 powerplant for motivation. The 2.5L 5-cylinder unit features dual camshaft architecture and an intercooled turbocharger good for 227 horsepower. The engine is noted for its strong low-end pull, pleasingly quiet operation, and seamless, smooth power delivery from idle to redline. All models are front-wheel drive and fitted with a 5-speed, manual-mode automatic. Drivers can expect 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds.

Consider it if: you're a safety nut or you require a convertible that's all-season ready, and can comfortably transition between high-class touring coupe and open-air sports car. The C70 is larger than many competing products, meaning more comfort for adult passengers. This is a worthy machine if comfort, confidence, safety, and refinement are priorities in your next ride.

Skip it if: you're after maximum performance firepower for your dollar. Since it's large, front-wheel drive and only comes with an automatic transmission, the 2013 Volvo C70 isn't commonly shopped by hardcore driving enthusiasts.

Other Notes: Heated seats are standard on all models, as are a slew of upscale features including dual-zone automatic climate control, a pollen filter, and an 8-way memory seat for the driver with adjustable lumbar support. Rain-sensing wipers and a headlight washer system add all-weather confidence, and a 650-Watt premium stereo system is available for audiophiles.

Don't Miss: The Rollover Protection System (ROPS) is a feature you'll hopefully never use. However, if the 2013 Volvo C70 is at risk of flipping over, gas-charged roll-bars pop up from behind the rear seats in a blink to add protection. Small spikes fixed to the top of these roll bars even shatter the rear window if the roof is up, allowing an easier exit from the C70 if it lands in water.

Want more power?
Consider the Polestar package. A dealer-installed performance upgrade, it dials up boost from the turbocharger and re-maps the engine computer for additional output without affecting the C70's warranty. Power spikes from 227 horses to 250, and torque jumps by nearly 40 lb-ft as well.

Add the Dynamic package to capitalize on the Polestar upgrade. It includes special 18” wheels, xenon lights and a three-spoke sport steering wheel for more excitement.

Photo: Volvo

The 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid made its world debut on Wednesday at the New York International Auto Show.

As the first of several upcoming hybrid models from the Japanese automaker, the 2014 Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid uses a supercharged 2.5L gasoline engine, 15 kW electric motor, and advanced Nissan Intelligent Dual Clutch hybrid control system. Set to go on sale across Canada this summer, it will cost about $3,000 more than the regular V6-powered Pathfinder.

Also unveiled in the Big Apple was the Nissan NV200 Mobility Taxi, which features a rear ramp and an industry-first integrated restraint system that provides safe and quick securing of wheelchairs.

In other news, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Executive Vice President Andy Palmer announced that the next-generation Nissan Murano, scheduled for the 2015 model year, will be based on the recently introduced Resonance Concept, and will include a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.

Photo: Nissan

NV200 Mobility Taxi (Photo: Nissan)

June 30, Peugeot will contest the 2013 Pikes Peak Hill Climb which continues to stand out as one of motorsport's most exacting, internationally-reputed competitions.

Peugeot's bid to win the unique, Colorado Springs-based event with the Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak has led to it joining forces with such key partners as Total, Red Bull, Michelin and Sebastien Loeb.

Peugeot's participation in this epic race, which has previously seen the brand triumph with the legendary 205 T16 and 405 T16 Pikes Peak, is a natural extension of its international offensive which is itself illustrated by the globalisation of its sales and the success enjoyed by the new 208.

Photo: Peugeot

The Pikes Peak Hill Climb's unique course was finally entirely asphalted last year and comprises 156 turns over a distance of 20 kilometres that take competitors from an altitude of 2,800 metres to 4,300 metres at its highest point. The event is famous, too, as the USA's second-oldest motorsport competition after Indianapolis and, over the decades, it has earned a reputation as a notoriously difficult and complex challenge!

“Pikes Peak is a one-off outing which has the potential to generate extensive media coverage and which meets the constraints of the current context,” said Maxime Picat, Peugeot Brand CEO.

“It is a legendary race that has inspired all the brand's teams who have mobilised behind the project which targets outright victory. It is also a tough, exceptional challenge which leaves no room for error. In other words, it's exactly the sort of challenge that Peugeot adores.”

Infiniti on Wednesday during the

The refreshed 2014 Hyundai Equus debuted at the New York auto show on Wednesday. The flagship sedan is receiving upgrades in almost every area, including the interior, exterior, chassis and technology.

News 28 Mar, 2013

Production of the revised Nissan Leaf has begun at the firm's plant in Sunderland, as part of a £420m investment

The refreshed 2014 Hyundai Equus debuted at the New York auto show on Wednesday.