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From press release

Earlier this year Nandan said Portugal would be the first opportunity to properly benchmark the i20's performance, after the specialized challenges of the rounds in Monte Carlo, Sweden and Mexico.

“The verdict is that we are a bit closer than what was expected,” Nandan told wrc.com. “If we look at times when there were no problems on the car and you compare the same tyre choices, then let's say it's between 0.1 and 0.4 seconds per kilometre. Which is quite encouraging.

Michel Nandan is happy with the performances of his car (Photo: WRC.com)

“We know we have still a lot of work to do on the development of the car, on the chassis as well on the engine, but okay, I think it's quite promising. From what we can see, we are not really far away from VW or Citroen. And sometimes, in the more muddy conditions especially, it was possible to fight them.”

However Nandan ruled out any immediate ambition to challenge for rally wins.

“I think the progress is going quite well and, of course, we can be happy with the results so far, but no, it will not change our target to progress and improve the car. In Portugal we had some problems as well, but we are here to have problems and then to try and solve them. For now we will not focus on different things.”

Pros
Canada's No. 1 selling Crossover Utility Vehicle has been chosen as a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Dodge Journey is available in six different trim levels, and in front- or all-wheel drive.

Cons
Overall styling is distinctive, but the family resemblance to the Caravan minivan is not necessarily a good thing.

Photo: Dodge

Price
The Dodge Journey starts at $21,495 for the base CVP (Canada Value Package) model and carries on through SE plus, SXT, Limited, and R/T to $33,395 for a basic R/T Rallye with AWD. At every trim level there are a series of options available at extra cost.

Fuel Economy (city/highway in L/100 km)
2.4L 4-cyl; 11.2/7.7

3.6L V6 FWD; 12.6/7.9, AWD; 12.8/8.2

Improvements and Changes
For 2014 the new Limited package slides right in the middle of the six packages offered. Dodge says it replaces the Crew model from previous years. Other than that, the 2014 Dodge Journey is unchanged for this year.

Exterior Styling
The front end has the Dodge family resemblance, but once you get to the side views, the Journey is quite distinctive with its squared off sides and slightly rounded edges. The Journey uses 17” and 19” rims which emphasizes the “ruggedness” of the vehicle by leaving extra space in the wheel wells.

Inside
Uconnect™ with its optional 8.4” touchscreen is an impressive bit of technology to use. The large screen is easier to read at a glance, and easier to use than the smaller screens in competitor's vehicles. In addition to the large screen in the dash, the second-row entertainment system screen is a full 9”. Base versions of the Journey use a 4.3” screen for Uconnect™.

Cargo/towing/payload capacity
Seven passenger V6-powered versions can carry up to 610 kg (1,362 lb), while the five passenger 4-cylinder versions are limited to 538 kg (1,186 lb). Towing capacities, when properly equipped, are 454 kg (1,000 lb) for the 4-cylinder versions and 1,134 kg (2,500 lb) for the V6 versions.

Powertrain
A 4-speed automatic is used in conjunction with the 2.4L 4-cylinder while the 3.6L V6 gets a 6-speed automatic. Power output of the four is 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. The direct-injected, variable valve timing, DOHC V6 pumps the power output up to 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Safety
Driver and front passenger airbags are assisted by front driver and passenger side impact airbags and side curtain airbags that cover all rows, and there's also a driver's knee blocker airbag. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, stability control, traction control, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Electronic Roll Mitigation, and trailer sway control are all standard. For the youngest members of the family, the LATCH anchor system for child seats is standard, as well.

Comparables
Shoppers should also consider the Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Chevrolet Traverse.

Red Bull Racing's Daniel Ricciardo has confirmed he will not there to see his team trying to overturn the stewards' decision to exclude him from the Australian Grand Prix.

The 24-year-old finished second on the track in Melbourne a month ago, but was disqualified after the race over fuel flow issues.

Red Bull appealed the decision, and the hearing is tomorrow, in Paris. Meanwhile, Ricciardo will be getting ready for next week's Chinese Grand Prix, in Shanghai.

Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull RB10 (Photo: WRi2)

“I'll obviously wait to hear the result from the team, I'm sure they'll give me a call,” Ricciardo told Crash.net.

“There's nothing that I can do, there's nothing that I can really worry about. As far as I'm concerned let's say the damage was done on Sunday night in Melbourne. I'm not going to be any more upset than I was then.

“Obviously I would love to get them back; I would be pleased but in a way I've sort of dealt with it now and whatever happens, happens.”

Pros: The Lexus CT 200h combines the attributes of a sporty 5-door hatch and a fuel-efficient, atmospherically responsible Lexus hybrid into a flexible, high-utility package. With a freshened premium presence, street-smart looks, and the sensible luxury that comes along with Lexus ownership, the CT 200h should connect readily with a shopper after performance and luxury that's easy on the wallet and easy on the environment.

Cons: The CT 200h is available only in a single 4-cylinder, front-drive, CVT-equipped powertrain configuration, so shoppers after AWD, more power or the ability to row their own gears will need to look elsewhere.

Photo: Lexus

2014 Lexus CT 200h Pricing: Pricing for the recently refreshed 2014 Lexus CT 200h represents improved value through revised feature packaging and lower MSRPs across the lineup. The CT 200h with Touring Package opens the model range at $34,150, while the Premium Package, which adds a premium stereo, backup camera, and plenty more starts from $37,750. A Technology Package adds leather memory seating, rain-sensing wipers, navigation, and more from $39,350. Enthusiast shoppers can also check out the sport-enhanced CT 200h F SPORT, complete with unique styling, chassis, and feature upgrades from $38,400.

2014 Lexus CT 200h Fuel Economy: Lexus CT 200h shoppers get a total system output of 134 horsepower alongside Tier 2 Bin 3 emissions, and a combined mileage figure of just 4.6L/100km.

Improvements and Changes: For 2014, the CT 200h boasts a fresh, more sculpted new body that incorporates Lexus' new spindle grille treatment, as well as new wheels, features, colours, and a revised interior with added refinement.

Don't Miss: the road-trip readiness. The 2014 Lexus CT 200h packs over 400 litres of cargo space behind its rear seats, while giving four grown-ups ample room onboard. A 45-litre fuel tank means plenty of highway cruising range, and features like automatic climate control, premium audio, and a sunroof dial up comfort along the way.

2014 Lexus CT 200h Powertrain: Utilizing an all-aluminum 1.8L 4-cylinder gas engine with numerous fuel-saving technologies lays the foundation for great mileage while the CT's high-output electric drive system completes the package. The gas and electric systems can combine their efforts or take turns powering the CT, depending on the type of driving at hand. A drive-select dial lets drivers customize powertrain response in real time, encouraging fuel efficiency or sportiness on the fly. Eco, Sport, and other modes are available.

Safety: All models feature Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control, and a cutting-edge antilock brake system that ensures fuss-free stops on all surfaces. A backup camera system and Vehicle Proximity Notification System, which makes a sound comparable to a gasoline engine when the CT is in its noiseless electric mode, make the area around the CT even safer, too. Active front head restraints are fitted to reduce whiplash-related injuries should the vehicle be rear-ended.

Comparables: The 2014 Lexus CT 200h is comparable to other sporty, fuel-saving compact hatches, including the Audi A3 TDI and Mazda3 Sport Skyactiv.

Pros: When it comes to efficiency, maneuverability, low running costs and a solid reputation for reliable hybrid-car ownership, the Toyota Prius c is a tough choice to beat. A 4.8-meter turning radius helps make this model ideal for a city dweller after a nimble and flexible compact boasting premium features and a not-so-big pricetag. Prius c is one of the latest new models in the award-winning Prius lineup.

Cons: Prius c's small size and limited output may scratch it off of the lists of some shoppers right off the bat. No manual transmission is available to help fans of shifting their own gears save money on the purchase price. Further, some must-have options, including split-folding seats and variable intermittent wipers aren't standard.

Photo: Toyota

2014 Toyota Prius c Pricing: Pricing starts from $20,440 with standard Bluetooth, power accessories, automatic climate control and USB audio input. An upgrade package is available, adding premium seats, a leather-covered dash, upgraded audio, cruise control, split-folding rear seats and more. With the Technology Package, Prius c will relieve shoppers of $23,145 in exchange for a Display Audio system with Navigation, 15-inch wheels, push-button start, keyless entry, satellite radio and more. From that basis, shoppers can devise the ultimate Prius c by adding the Premium package, which fits premium SofTex material over the seats and steering wheel, seat heaters, a power moonroof, fog lamps and more.

2014 Toyota Prius c Fuel Economy: With 99 hybrid horsepower on tap, Prius c sips its way along—using as little as 3.6L/100km and drastically reducing harmful emissions in the process.

Improvements and Changes: For 2014, the recently-launched Prius c carries over unchanged.

Don't Miss: the drive modes. At the touch of a button, drivers can activate ‘ECO' mode, which recalibrates climate controls and throttle response to help maximize fuel efficiency. Further, an ‘EV' mode allows for all-electric driving for up to one kilometer if speeds stay below 40 km/h. The drive modes are employed to help drivers extract the most benefit from the Prius c's Hybrid Synergy Drive powerplant.

2014 Toyota Prius c Powertrain: Toyota engineers revisited the award-winning Hybrid Synergy Drive system for its use in the compact Prius c, redesigning and down-scaling key components to be smaller and lighter for improved efficiency. Heavy powertrain components, like the engine, transaxle and power control unit, are strategically placed within the Prius c to optimize weight balance. At the heart of the system is a 1.5 litre Atkinson Cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine teamed with a smooth, fuel-saving CVT transmission.

Safety: Like all Toyota models, the Prius c includes the STAR safety system as standard equipment, regardless of trim grade. Toyota's STAR safety system includes six active safety technologies: Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology (SST). The various systems all play a role in maintaining driver control, helping to avoid altogether. Should one prove inevitable, advanced airbags and a crash-optimized body structure provide protection, as does instantaneous shut-down of high-voltage hybrid system components.

Comparables: Though Prius c has no direct competitors, it's ideally cross-shopped with other city-friendly, high-efficiency compacts like the Fiat 500, Smart fortwo, Mini Cooper and Scion iQ.

From Audi

Marcel Fässler (CH), André Lotterer (D) and Benoît Tréluyer are sharing the wheel of an Audi in the Spa 24 Hours this year. The trio that won the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2012 will be competing together for the first time in an R8 LMS ultra on July 26/27.

The Belgian Audi Club Team WRT - the 2011 winner of the endurance race in the Ardennes - will be fielding the GT3 sports car for the Audi drivers. Marcel Fässler was the overall winner in the classic Belgian event in 2007 with Phoenix Racing and since 2009 has contested all five races of the R8 LMS at Spa.

Marcel Fässler, André Lotterer, Benoît Tréluyer (Photo: Audi)

André Lotterer was on the grid with Audi in the past two years and took third place last year. Benoît Tréluyer will be making his debut in the world's major GT3 race.

Fässler, Lotterer and Tréluyer have been competing in sports car races for Audi since 2010 and in 2011 and 2012 won the Le Mans 24 Hours. René Rast, Laurens Vanthoor and Markus Winkelhock will be running in another WRT Audi.

"The Spa 24 Hours is so attractive because there's a huge field consisting exclusively of GT3 race cars. There's hardly another racing series in the world with such a homogenous field," said Tréluyer.

"The opportunity to participate in this event this year together with my WEC teammates André Lotterer and Marcel Fässler is fantastic. We've been planning to do this for some time."

"Getting used to the R8 LMS ultra quickly will be crucial. Driving this car will be quite a bit different than driving a sports prototype, but I'm very much looking forward to Audi's GT sports car.

"I've still got to learn a few things and won't be running at the front right away. After all, I'm a rookie in this 24-hour race."

Pro
One of the largest SUVs on the market with premium seating for eight. A very comfortable on- or off-road vehicle. All the “must have” items are either standard or can be added.

Con
Armada makes do with a 5-speed automatic transmission when competitors have moved to 6 or more. Body style is largely unchanged.

Photo: Nissan

Price
Basic MSRP is $59,178 and ranges up to $61,278 with Platinum Reserve Package.

Fuel Economy (city/highway in l/100 km)
17.3/11.4

Improvements and changes
In spite of few physical changes, the Armada has kept up to date with Bluetooth, second row entertainment system, sat/nav and top line stereo systems. Front and rear sonar systems as well as a rear view monitor keep the driver well informed.

Exterior
There is little to say about an exterior that has not changed in 3 years except for updates to HID or LED lighting. The bright Nissan group grille and the limited bit of bright work along the sides of the darker colored Armadas does make them stand out. The only color that is not suited to this body style is white as it removes all points of reference and all your eye will see is a giant white vehicle.

Interior
The Armada interior fares much better. All seats are comfortable and if you prefer, the second row seat can be either a bench or two buckets depending on how you fill out the option sheet. Road trips require a place to put stuff and the Armada has 14 cup holders, various side and seat back pockets that come in handy. Dual zone climate control, a heated steering wheel as well as heated front seats, rear air conditioning and a power folding third row seat are all standard.

Cargo/towing/payload capacity
Maximum towing capacity with the trailer towing package is 4,082 kg (7,000 lb). Cargo volume behind the third row seat is 566 liters. With the third row folded down the total space is 1605.5 liters. Maximum payload is 870 kg (1,917 lb).

Powertrain
The Armada utilizes a DOHC, 32-valve, 5.6L V8 that produces 317 horsepower and 385 lb.ft. of torque. Behind the motor is a 5-speed automatic with a two speed transfer case attached.

Safety
Dual front, fount mounted side impact and full length side curtain air bags. Child proof rear door locks, LATCH system of anchoring child seats and three point seat belts are standard. Four-wheel disc brakes with traction control, stability control, electronic brake force distribution and roll mitigation are standard. Tire Pressure Monitoring System, front and rear sonar systems with distance sensing curies control are standard.

Comparables
Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade, Lexus LX, Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes Benz GL-Class, Infiniti QX80.

Pro
Titan probably has the best system of tie downs and storage in short box pickups. Titan was the first to have a half door that opened more than 90 degrees. Overall comfort is as good as in any other truck.

Con
Originally innovative and segment leading, Titan has been allowed to fall behind significantly in the “truck wars” of North America.

Photo: Nissan

Price
MSRP for King Cab (extended cab)
S: $33,898 SV: $38,448 SV 4X4: $41,848 PRO 4X: $43,598

MSRP for Crew Cab (four doors)
S: $39,898 SV: $44,448 PRO 4X: $46,198 SL: $51,648

Fuel Economy (city/highway in l/100 km)
King Cab; 10.9/16.1
Crew Cab; 12.2/17.8

Improvements and changes
Titan has Bluetooth, sat/nav and all the good electronic necessities available if desired. The tie down system available in the truck box along with the bed liner work well together. One rear fender quarter has a lockable storage compartment suitable for hauling small truck stuff like liters of oil, some tools etc.

Exterior styling
Titan's exterior has hardly changed from the day it first went on sale. The grille is distinctly Nissan and there is little chrome along the side to accent any of the lines. Some of the wheel designs are bright so there is a bit of bling on the truck.

Inside
Five adults can sit in a crew cab model in comfort. When you try and put the same number in the King Cab, it is a bit more crowded. The big difference is legroom since the crew cab is significantly longer. In both versions the centre console doubles as a work station with power outlet and space for everything from a laptop to a cell phone. There is even a place for your extra-large coffee.

Cargo/towing/payload capacity
Maximum trailering weight is 4,309 kg (9,500 lb). Maximum payload is 829 kg (1,827 lb)

Powertrain
Titan uses a 5.6L DOHC, 32-valve V8 that produces 317 horsepower and 385 ft.lb. of torque. Behind that is a 5-speed automatic and a 2-speed transfer case when equipped as a 4X4. The rear differential is electronically locking.

Safety
Dual front, front seat side impact and side curtain air bags are standard. Three point lap belts, child proof rear door locks (crew cab) and LATCH system of anchoring child seats are standard. A tire pressure monitoring system, four wheel disc brakes with ABS, brake assist and electronic brake force distribution are standard.

Comparables
Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, RAM 1500

Pro
4Runner may look like it belongs in the city, but underneath it can handle off-road situations as well as any vehicle in its class.

Con
With time comes civilization and what started out as a basic hard driving 4X4 is now gentrified and a bit on the soft side.

Photo: Toyota

Price
MSRP for the 4Runner starts at $37,900 and carries up to $48,445 for the 7-passenger Limited..

Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined in l/100 km)
12.7/9.4/11.2

Improvements and changes
Basic MSRP is lower than in 2013 with more standard features. Stylistically, the 4Runner follows the cues of the new Tundra with a more muscular look that comes from the front fenders and wheel arches.

Exterior Changes
Styling cues are now specific to the three available grades, SR5, Trail Edition and Limited. SR5 and Trail edition get a more muscular look while the Limited retains the muscular look it gets the added up market trim.

Inside
Available in 5 and 7-passenger versions, the 4Runner has second row seats that slide and recline. Second and third row seats are now equipped with one touch walk in function for easier ingress and egress. An additional benefit is that there is more leg and foot room for third row occupants. Like the exterior styling hints and grade of materials follow the attitude of each grade.

Cargo/towing/payload capacity
Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped is 2,268 kg (5,000 lb). Maximum cargo capacity is 254 litres behind the 3rd row (if equipped), 1,300 liters behind the second row and 2,500 liters with the second row folded down.

Powertrain
The only engine used in the 4Runner is a DOHC, 24-valve, 4.0L V6 with double variable valve timing (VVT-i) that produces 270 horsepower and 278 ft.lb. of torque. The only transmission used is a five-speed automatic. Purchasers can choose between a part-time 4X4 system with electronic touch controls or a full time AWD system. In addition multi-terrain crawl control is available. Active traction control, Down Hill Assist, Hill Start Assist, automatic disconnecting differential and skid plates to protect the important parts are standard.

Safety
Dual front, front seat side impact, front knee and full length side curtain air bags are standard. Child proof rear door locks, LATCH system of anchoring child seats and child-proof rear door locks are standard. Tire pressure monitoring system is standard. STARS system of safety includes, four wheel disc brakes with ABS, traction control, stability control, electronic brake force control, brake assist and smart stop technology.

Comparables
Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango, Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and XL, Chevrolet Traverse, Mazda CX-9, Ford Edge, Kia Sorrento, Nissan Pathfinder, GMC Acadia, Honda Pilot.

Pros
Escalade ESV is 53.4 cm (21 inches) longer than the regular Escalade and has more room for a third row seat and cargo space. It is North American luxury at its best.

Con
This is a lot of Cadillac and if the reason for buying is a large family, best look into a minivan which is roomier and more economical.

Photo: Cadillac

Price
Escalade ESV MSRP starts at $89,600 and can reach up to $113,375.

Fuel Economy
City/highway/combined (l/100 km) 17/11.4/14.5
E85

City/highway/combined (l/100km) 23.5/15.3/19.8

Improvements and Changes
The only change for 2014 is that Midnight Plum Metallic is now offered on all models. The Escalade ESV will continue to be offered in Base, Luxury, Premium and Platinum trim levels.

Exterior Styling
Aside from having an extra 53.4 cm of side to look at, the Escalade ESV is the same as the Escalade. LED headlamps are optional while HIDs are standard as are LED taillights. Standard wheel size is 18 inches on the base model and all the others get 22-inch wheels.

Interior
Escalade ESV seats up to eight in luxury and still has a generous amount of cargo space. Remove the third row seat and cargo space takes on near pick-up truck proportions. Second row seats can be individual buckets or a 60/40 split/folding bench seat while the third row is a 50/50 folding seat.

There are several different entertainment systems available, but just about everything you want from bluetooth to backup cameras and from adjustable pedals to a remote starter are standard equipment.

Tri-zone climate control is standard, but the heated and cooled front bucket seats as well as the heated and cooled cup holders are part of the Platinum trim.

Cargo /Towing/Payload
Interior space behind the third seat is 1297 liters which is about 5 hockey bags or a trip to the antique store, which ever mom does first. Maximum payload is not to exceed 643 kg (1,418 lbs) towing ability is rated at 3,628 kg (8,000 lbs).

Powertrain
Escalade ESV utilizes a 6.2 liter V8 that produces 403 horsepower and 417 ft.lb. of torque that is mated with a six-speed automatic and an intelligent AWD system.

Safety
Escalade ESV employs six air bags, two front and two front set mounted side impact air bags. As part of roll over protection, full length roof mounted side curtain air bags are used. These roof mounted bags stay inflated longer than the other four due to the fact that roll overs require more protection.

Stability control (Stabiltrak™), roll mitigation, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS brakes and Electronic Brake Force distribution are standard. In addition, LATCH system of anchoring child seats is standard as are a rear view camera, seat belt pre-tensioners and a Tire Pressure Monitoring system.

To provide more vehicle protection, Pass Key 3+ which is an encrypted keyless remote entry system is standard as is a more robust steering lock, an inclination sensor to let you know of unauthorized changes in the angle of the vehicle such as when being jacked up. One year of OnStar is also included.

Comparables
Lincoln Navigator Max, Mercedes Benz GL-Class, Audi Q7, Land Rover Range Rover, Lexus LX.

Pros: Priced only $300 more than its sedan sibling, the Accent Hatchback proves to be a cost effective way to buy a hatchback without going up an extra trim level (like the Ford Fiesta). Also, both manual and automatic transmissions are available from the GL on all the way up to the top GLS trim. Hyundai knows how to pack in the features, such as heated seats on mid-level trims, making the Accent Hatchback a great content-minded purchase.

Cons: The Accent Hatchback's biggest downfall is from its sister company Kia. Just by crossing the street you can compare the Accent with its Kia twin, the Rio, which is arguably the better looking of the pair.

Photo: Hyundai

2014 Hyundai Accent Hatchback Pricing: Pricing for the Accent Hatchback (4-door) starts at $13,799 for the base model L trim and manual transmission. GL models jump to $16,199 and add air conditioning, cruise control, front heated seats, Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, telescopic steering wheel, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats. GL Auto models jump to $17,499 with the same equipment. GLS models receive leather wrapped steering wheel, power sunroof, 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and fog lamps starting at $17,799, while those looking for the automatic model will need to shell out $19,049.

2014 Hyundai Accent Hatchback Economy: While only available with a single motor - a 1.6L direct injection four-cylinder - both six-speed manual and automatic transmissions are offered. On the EnerGuide cycle, manual transmission models are rated at 7.5/5.3/6.5L (city/highway/combined) per 100 km. Automatic transmission models rate almost exactly the same at 7.6/5.2/6.5L (city/highway/combined) during the same testing.

Improvements and Changes: For 2014, Hyundai's subcompact gets some additional equipment. All trims now get an included sliding sun visor. A voice activated audio system with Bluetooth trickles down from the GLS trim and is now available on GL models. Those looking for telescopic steering can now find the feature on both GL and GLS models.

Don't Miss: Adding air conditioning to the base L model tacks on an additional $2,005.95 and erodes its value proposition. If you must have AC, just jump up a trim and get the additional equipment at a discount.

2014 Hyundai Accent Hatchback Powertrain: Only one engine is offered, however it is fairly modern and features direct injection. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder mill produces a class-leading 138 hp at 6,300 RPM while coaxing up 123 lb-ft of torque at 4,850 RPM. It's slightly thirstier than some of its subcompact competitors, but the increased power more than makes up for it. Also, the Accent is the only car in its class to offer six-speed transmissions in both manual and automatic flavours.

Safety: The Accent Hatchback comes standard with six airbags (front, front seat-mounted side, and side curtain) available on all trims. Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control, and Traction Control System will do there best to keep you between the ditches, as will the standard four-wheel disc brakes and ABS. However, should you find yourself on the other side of a guard rail, front active head restraints work in conjunction with the six standard airbags.

Comparables: The Accent Hatchback competes with its crosstown rival, Kia Rio 5-Door, as well as hatchback variants of the Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Mazda2, Nissan Versa Note, and Toyota Yaris.

From press release

This weekend, Canadian driver Kuno Wittmer contested the third round of the 2014 Tudor United SportsCar series, at the Long Beach street circuit.

Teamed up with Californian Jonathan Bomarito, Kuno begrudgingly recorded his first DNF of the season when his number 93 SRT Viper GTS-R suffered transmission problems 20 minutes before the end. 

"We knew that the Viper GTS-R was at a disadvantage on this temporary street circuit. We were simply hoping to score enough points to remain in the hunt for the championship title after our excellent performances at the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring," indicated Kuno Witmer.

Kuno Wittmer, Viper GTS-R (Photo: Richard Prince/SRT Motorsports)

"Unfortunately, during the free practice, we started experiencing a power steering problem. The SRT Motorsports team attempted to remedy the situation but the problem reoccurred in qualifying, as well as during the race," added Kuno, who took the start and drove the first 60 minutes.

Thanks to a pit stop strategy slightly different than his rivals, Kuno, who started in tenth in GTLM class, was in sixth place when he handed the wheel over to teammate Jonathan Bomarito. It was 20 minutes from the end of the race when mechanical problems ended Bomarito's drive.

The second Viper GTS-R (No.91) entered by the SRT Motorsports team finished the race in seventh spot... California's Laguna Seca race will take place on May 4th.

The United States has proposed eliminating over 30 years its tariffs on Japanese light vehicles but Japan rejected the proposal because the time period is unusually long, Kyodo News reported on Saturday.

PSA/Peugeot-Citroen's prospects may be brightening as Europe emerges from a market slump, but new CEO Carlos Tavares still faces long odds as he prepares to present his Back in the Race recovery plan on Monday.

Success has many fathers but failure is an orphan, or so the saying goes. Though many names are associated with the Ford Mustang's extraordinary half-century run, the irrepressible Lee Iacocca sits at the top of that list.

Chris Bangle, BMW's former design chief, once likened the German carmaker's lineup to a bratwurst in three different lengths. Now, there's a lot more on offer, including convenience sizes.

Chris Bangle, BMW's former design chief, once likened the German carmaker's lineup to a bratwurst in three different lengths. Now, there's a lot more on offer, including convenience sizes.

From press release

The FIA has approved a series of updates to the Formula E Championship following the World Motor Sport Council's (WMSC) meeting in Marrakech, Morocco.

The 10 Formula E teams have now been fully approved by the council meaning Drayson Racing, China Racing, Andretti Autosport, Dragon Racing, e.dams, Super Aguri, Audi Sport Abt, Mahindra Racing, Virgin Racing and Venturi Grand Prix will all line-up on the start grid for the opening race in Beijing in September.

Amendments to the inaugural 2014/2015 season were also confirmed. The most significant of which being the postponement of the Rio de Janeiro ePrix, previously scheduled to host round three of the championship on November 15. This race will now be replaced with a brand new host city - to be announced shortly - taking place on February 14 2015.

The calendar amends also see the date of the Los Angeles race moved to April 4 2015. Full details of the new host city and the final calendar will be revealed on the official Formula E website soon.

Finally, the council confirmed that the points for the series will use the regular FIA system for positions 1 through 10. Furthermore, a three-point bonus will be awarded to the driver securing pole position whilst the driver setting the fastest lap receives two points.

FIA points system
1st = 25pts
2nd = 18pts
3rd = 15pts
4th = 12pts
5th = 10pts
6th = 8pts
7th = 6pts
8th = 4pts
9th = 2pts
10th = 1pt

From GMM

Californian Gene Haas will start negotiating more seriously with engine manufacturers, now that the World Motor Sport Council has approved his 2015 application to race in F1.

"Now the really hard work begins," Haas said in a statement on Friday.

Last week, he had warned that the entire project was "up in the air", including the identity of the team's 2015 engine supplier.

"As things go forward it will be clearer, but you can't really do anything until we actually have been notified that we're a participant," he had said.

He seemed to contradict speculation he could bring the Ford name back to the grid, in collaboration with the former F1 supplier Cosworth.

"There's only three engine suppliers, you've got Renault, Mercedes, Ferrari," said Haas.

Mercedes has the best package at the moment in F1 (Photo: WRi2)

"Next year there will be Honda, but probably Honda is not really viable.

"We have talked to Mercedes and with Ferrari, just preliminary discussions, but we haven't nailed anything down yet. I guess that would be the next move," he revealed.

And the FIA said "further investigations" are ongoing for another "high standard" application filed by Forza Rossa.

It is believed Forza Rossa is the name of former HRT boss Colin Kolles' new Romanian-backed project.

From GMM

La Gazzetta dello Sport, the influential Italian sports daily, speculated on Friday that Ferrari could be poised to make a change at the top.

It has long been rumoured that Stefano Domenicali, the fabled Maranello team's chief, might not survive too many more disappointing seasons at the helm.

"(I) say to all those jealous people wanting this job: they have to fight for it!" Domenicali told F1's official website last week.

According to Gazzetta, however, 48-year-old Domenicali might finally be losing the support of Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo.

Fernando Alonso, Ferrari F14-T, Bahrain (Photo: WRi2)

Montezemolo left the Bahrain circuit last Sunday part-way through the grand prix, declaring that watching "slow" Ferraris gave him "great pain".

Now, at an event at the Ferrari museum in Maranello on Friday, Montezemolo reportedly said: "I already know what you want to ask.

"My reply is that we will leave no stone unturned to be where we need to be. We will work day and night to improve and make the decisions that we need to take."

Wondered Gazzetta correspondent Andrea Tosi: "(Will there be) changes at the top of the Gestione Sportiva?"