Auto News 5

For the first time ever, the Porsche Boxster and Cayman will be available in GTS trim. The new models will arrive at Canadian dealerships this summer starting at $83,900 and $85,900, respectively.

Equipped with a 3.4L flat-six engine, the Porsche Boxster GTS (330 hp) and Cayman GTS (340 hp) deliver 15 more horsepower than the Boxster S and Cayman S.

The new Boxster GTS sprints from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 281 km/h, while the slightly faster Cayman GTS gets to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and maxes out at 285 km/h.

Standard equipment on both models include the Sport Chrono Package, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), sports seats, and Alcantara interior trim.

Photo: Porsche

From GMM

Toto Wolff has revealed his negotiations with Paddy Lowe were initially about wooing the former McLaren technical boss to Williams.

In 2012, Wolff was Williams' executive director and he is still a shareholder to this day.

He told Austria's Sportwoche magazine this week that, on the advice of former McLaren and Williams driver Alex Wurz, he tried to convince 51-year-old Lowe to leave McLaren.

"Our first meeting was at Alex's house in Monaco," Toto Wolff revealed.

"We then negotiated for a long time. I wanted to bring him to Williams, but things were not going that well (at Williams). Luckily," said the 42-year-old.

"When I switched to Mercedes, Paddy was willing to come along."

Indeed, Wolff - now Mercedes' motor racing chief - bought into the Brackley based team early in 2013, and Briton Lowe followed six months later, ultimately replacing the departed Ross Brawn as a team boss.

Paddy Lowe and Toto Wolff, Mercedes AMG. (Photo: WRi2)

From GMM

Given Mercedes' dominance in Australia, the German marque's rivals have now begun their chase.

Second on the road in Melbourne was the later-disqualified Red Bull of Daniel Ricciardo.

"When you think about where they were three weeks ago," said Mercedes' Toto Wolff, "then we need to be really aware of what they are capable of.

"We are yet to see a reliable Vettel, and when that happens he'll be really fast," the German told Finland's Turun Sanomat newspaper.

Williams is currently regarded as the second-fastest team behind Mercedes, but technical boss Pat Symonds is expecting a tough fight in 2014.

"Look at how quickly Renault has caught up. Three weeks ago they were nowhere, suddenly they have a car that can be second," he told Germany's Auto Motor und Sport.

Daniel Ricciardo (Red Bull) chasing Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) in Australia with the other drivers. (Photo: WRi2)

Indeed, a lot of the responsibility for Red Bull's issues is in engine supplier Renault's court.

"It is obvious that we are slower on the straights than Mercedes," the French marque's Remi Taffin is quoted by Italiaracing.

"I don't know if it's a second, and it's definitely more than a tenth, but there are no unsolvable problems," he insisted.

Also chasing Mercedes hard are McLaren and Ferrari.

"We believe that their (Mercedes') advantage is between five tenths and three quarters of a second," McLaren team boss Eric Boullier is quoted by France's Auto Hebdo.

"From our side we wanted above all to develop a reliable car, as we think it is essential to win a lot of points early in the season. Then we will have a very aggressive development. We need to catch up with Mercedes but also other teams that will be successful when their engine is as well," said Boullier.

Ferrari agrees that, despite a disappointing opening weekend in Australia, nothing is lost in terms of the overall battle for the 2014 title.

"I honestly believe that there is time for this team to fight for this world championship," boss Stefano Domenicali is quoted by the Spanish sports newspaper AS.

"Sure, it will not be easy, but of course there is time and we have the resources to do everything possible to bring it about."

From wrc.com

Japanese car manufacturer Toyota has edged a step closer to a World Rally Championship return after a spokesman for the Japanese manufacturer's motorsport arm told wrc.com that it enjoyed a positive first gravel test of its new Yaris World Rally Car.

The car, known as the TMG Yaris WRC, is fitted with Toyota's 1.6-litre turbo Global Race Engine and was tested in Italy this week by experienced Finn Sebastien Lindholm and former Subaru driver Stephane Sarrazin.

The test was coordinated by Mini's former WRC partner, Motorsport Italia.

Toyota's motorsport division, TMG, is keeping details of the test private, but a spokesperson revealed that the team was happy with how it had gone. He also confirmed that it was the first of several tests planned for this year, as part of a long-term project.

Toyota was one of the most successful WRC manufacturers of the 1990s, achieving four drivers' and three constructors' titles before switching its focus to F1 in 1999.

Toyota Motor Corporation president Akio Toyoda said on a Japanese WRC TV programme in January that the firm would like to come back to the WRC, but he did not say when this might happen.

It is certain that any return will not be with the car currently on test, however, as the spokesman confirmed that the TMG Yaris WRC will not be homologated for competition.

It is more likely that Toyota will return with a different car, conforming to new WRC technical regulations that come into effect in 2017.

The soon-to-be-launched FIA Formula E Championship for electric single seaters attracts more and more former Formula 1 drivers.

The series will begin September 14 on the street course de Beijing, China. Ten teams will be entering 20 drivers each round.

Former test and race F1 drivers Sam Bird, Jarno Trulli, Nick Heidfeld and Jerome d'Ambrosio have added their names to the burgeoning Formula E Drivers' Club and in doing so showing their support for the new global electric racing series.

The Club includes several experienced drivers such as Tonio Liuzzi, Sebastien Buemi, Oriol Servia, Christian Klien, Marco Andretti, Giorgio Pantano, Adrien Tambay, Sebastien Bourdais, Franck Montagny, Nicolas Minassian and Marco Bonanomi.

Although I may be a certifiable petrolhead, I am mindful of fuel consumption. My issue is that I've not yet been able to tolerate one aspect at the expense of the other. Allow me to elaborate: I'm no fan of the Toyota Prius; it's no fun. Period. This is why I'm a fan of the recent crop of hopped-up “performance” hybrids.

The current Impreza, introduced for the 2012 model year, was joined by the XV Crosstrek a year later. The return of the new “Outback Sport” was a welcome sight, and when the coming of a hybrid was announced at the 2013 New York Auto Show, I was taken; more power, less fuel, and all Subaru with a hatch.

The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek has an undeniably attractive and rugged appearance that is coupled with an AWD system known to deliver. Sadly, my hopes for more driving enjoyment without paying more at the pumps never happened. The XV hybrid is still a Subaru but the extra upfront costs are not justifiable.


What is a Subaru XV Crosstrek?
The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a compact crossover-hatchback that is based on the Impreza hatchback, with a little extra ground clearance and all-important plastic body cladding.

The XV slots itself below the Forester in Subaru's line-up of utility vehicles, offering slightly less cargo room but all of the brand's legendary all-weather capabilities.

2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Price and Specs
The XV Crosstrek nameplate consists of four trim levels starting with the Touring, which sports a sticker price of $24,495. An extra $2,000 will get you a Sport (sunroof and HID headlights). The Limited gains much kit in the form of navigation and leather and retails for $28,995. The Hybrid offers the Sport's level of equipment with a few extra touches and the powertrain for $29,995.

All of these cars run with a 2.0L flat 4-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid throws in a permanent magnet AC synchronous motor that produces 13.4 hp and 48 torques. Total combined system output comes out to 160 horsepower and 163 torques.

Regular 2014 Subaru XV Crosstreks can be outfitted with a 5-speed manual or a CVT. The Hybrid can only be spec'd out with the Lineartronic CVT with 6-speed manual mode and paddle shifters.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across the board.

The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a compact crossover-hatchback that is based on the Impreza hatchback, with a little extra ground clearance and all-important plastic body cladding. (Photo: Subaru)

Driving the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid
As a long-time fan of the brand, I knew what to expect when I got behind the wheel of the 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid. I'd driven the Impreza, with both transmissions, and so was looking forward to experienceing some extra oomph from the hybrid powertrain.

Perhaps I should have reserved my hopes of added performance for my upcoming reviews of the WRX and STI... Other than a trivial boost from roughly 2,000 rpm, the extra hp and torques feel more theoretical than practical. Despite this letdown, I found myself satisfied with the XV Crosstrek hybrid's acceleration and passing abilities.

The result of throttle application does bring to light an issue that has quickly become old and redundant. The Lineatronic CVT transmission does what it has to do, but is not gracious about it. Response is often rubbery and the box will peg engine speeds at or near redline if the go-pedal is held down. The trick is to back off once the tachometer hits 4,500-5,000 rpm, which can be counter intuitive. The CVT-bashing continues because other manufacturers' (Honda, Nissan) figured out how to program them to work like a conventional automatic -- it makes a HUGE difference.

Of all Subaru products, this is the least well-adapted to our climate, only because of the hybrid system. Snowfall as well as frigid and mild temperatures required the constant use of the climate system defrost functions. Because of the A/C compressor needed, the gas engine would never shut off. I was therefore never able to make use of the EV mode. In fact, even with the fan off, I never experienced full electric propulsion.

Thus, in the end, a weeklong fuel consumption average of nearly 10L/100km solidified my disappointment with the 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid.

These frustrations where often forgiven as no amount of snow or poor driving conditions would ever slow me down. The 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid's ride is firm but not uncomfortable. I'd go so far as to add sporty. Steering is good, a far cry from previous generation Subarus, and the brakes are up to the task.

I'd driven the Impreza, with both transmissions, and so was looking forward to experienceing some extra oomph from the hybrid powertrain. (Photo: Subaru)

Inside and Out of the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
As I've pointed out, the XV's styling is great. It gives off a bulldog vibe that says no terrain or weather condition can stop it.

The Hybrid's Plasma Green Pearl paint job is really cool, and should be offered on all trims. It matches up nicely with the blacked-out wheels and subtle exterior chrome touches reserved for the Hybrid and the Limited.

The 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid's cabin is very spacious for a compact car, and the trunk is equally capacious. The dashboard's layout is ergonomic; all controls are within reach and well conceived. I especially like the 4.3” colour multifunction display at the top of the dashboard. Overall presentation is drab though, and the materials are short on class. Fit and finish are good.

Seats and driving position are spot on, especially where visibility is concerned for the latter. Gripes come from the location of the heated seat switches and a few other elements.

The 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid's cabin is very spacious for a compact car, and the trunk is equally capacious. (Photo: Subaru)

Comparing the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid
The 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid's competitors are few and far between. In actuality, it is the only AWD hybrid currently offered on the market in its price bracket. The likes of the Volkswagen Jetta hybrid, Honda Civic hybrid and Toyota Prius can all line up with the XV, but all eclipse it fuel economy-wise.

The bottom line is that a regular XV Crosstrek is a wiser bet simply because the car is more affordable.

Two years ago, Bentley introduced the EXP 9F concept; now, we have the first official picture of the production model that should go on sale in 2016.

Featuring Bentley's signature styling, it's said to become the “most luxurious and powerful SUV on the market.”

Bentley expects to sell at least 3,000 units a year, and 2,000 customers have already pre-ordered one.

Photo: Bentley

From GMM

Pedro de la Rosa wants to step down as president of the F1 drivers' association, the GPDA.

Speed Week said the Ferrari reserve driver's decision became clear last weekend in Australia, with a vote on his successor likely to take place next week ahead of the Malaysian grand prix.

"Wanted: a driver with experience," said correspondent Mathias Brunner.

Alongside 43-year-old Spaniard de la Rosa, the other GPDA directors at present are Jenson Button and reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel.

Sorel, Quebec native Maryeve Dufault will drive the No. 46 Shooters Ford Fusion this weekend in the second round of the ARCA series, the Mobile ARCA 200.

The race will be held at the Mobile International Speedway, a half-mile paved oval, also known as “Alabama's Fastest Half Mile”.

Maryeve will be working alongside her new crew chief, Rick Crawford.

“I'm really happy to start working with Rick (Crawford) at Mobile, it is his home town and local track and I am sure he will have good information for me since it's my first time racing there,” said Maryeve.

“I know the guys have spent a lot of time at the shop working hard to get me the best car for this race. I just cannot wait to roll the car on track for the first practice at Mobile with our new partner Shooters Restaurant Group. I am so grateful to have amazing partners and proud to be with Team Stange,” she added.

Maryeve and the No. 46 Shooters Ford Fusion will be part of the pre-race fan fest located at the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park in Mobile, Alabama on Thursday, March 20 from 4 to 6pm.

Maryeve Dufault (Photo: Team Stange)

GM was hit with a lawsuit on Wednesday demanding that the company be held liable for allegedly concealing problems with ignition switches before its 2009 bankruptcy.

Kia Motors elevated the head of its U.S. operations to one of the company's two highest-ranking executive positions globally.

J.D. Power has agreed to work with DealerRater to help automakers and dealers collect dealership reviews from consumers, under a deal announced today. J.D.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau ought to issue clear rules for auto lending using a formal rulemaking process, rather than issuing general guidance or orders aimed at individual companies, which lenders must try to interpret and apply to...

Can an SUV that was designed primarily for the US work just as well in the UK? That was the question on Glenn Brooks' mind as he tried out Hyundai's latest Santa Fe.

Not many things are more terrifying than looking at your bank statement every month to see how badly you blew it. But aside from the day-to-day expenses, ever wonder where exactly all of your money is going? Our friends at

The launch of the new Jeep Renegade opens up a whole new showcase of parts and accessories for MOPAR, the long established aftersales arm of Chrysler.

Chrysler Group has named a former General Motors executive as its new head of transmission powertrain.

GM introduced its new modular family of Ecotec engines on Wednesday at its powertrain headquarters in Pontiac, Mich.

Visteon has announced that the company has reached an agreement to sell its 50 percent ownership stake in a Korean automotive interiors joint venture, Duckyang Industry Co., Ltd, in support of its previously announced intentions to divest its interiors business.

The SMMT has welcomed the UK Government's annual Budget and its focus on manufacturing and exports, in line with the UK automotive sector's strengths.