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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.

Pros: The Sportage can get off the line in a decent hurry while its supple seats comfort you. And thanks to some very pleasing lines, it looks the part.

Cons: Its design comes with a couple of downsides, namely poor rearward visibility, a cramped back seat, and less than stellar cargo space.

Photo: Kia

2014 Kia Sportage Pricing: The Sportage starts at $22,995 for the LX FWD model with a six-speed manual. Adding an automatic transmission, along with rear parking sonar, brings the price up to $25,195. LX AWD models are $27,495. EX FWD models get 17'' alloys, leather trim pieces, UVO infotainment, a backup camera, and push-button start for $28,295. EX AWD models bring the price up to $30,595.

EX Luxury AWD models add a panoramic sunroof, 18'' alloys, leather seats, and a heated steering wheel for $34,695, while navigation pushes the price up to $36,195. SX AWD models expand on the EX AWD trim by adding a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and 18'' wheels for $32,495, while top-trim SX Luxury AWD models build on the EX Luxury AWD w/ Navigation package with the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, HID headlights, and heated rear seats for $38,295.

2014 Kia Sportage Economy: Equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, the Sportage is rated at 11.4/7.8L (city/highway) per 100 km with the manual transmission and 10.0/7.0L per 100 km with the automatic. All-wheel drive models with the same engine and an automatic transmission are rated at 10.6/7.7L per 100 km. When equipped with the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder, fuel economy is pegged at 11.2/8.2 per 100 km by Natural Resources Canada.

Improvements and Changes: Other than a slightly higher price, the Sportage has basically not changed for 2014.

2014 Kia Sportage Powertrain: In all trims except SX, the Sportage is equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 182 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. It can be had with either manual (FWD only) or automatic transmissions (FWD and AWD). SX models receive a turbocharged 2.0-litre unit good for 260 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque. It is only available with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Safety: The Kia Sportage comes standard with six airbags (front, front seat-mounted side, and side curtain). Vehicle Stability Management, Electronic Stability Control, and Hill Start Assist come standard on all trims as well. A backup sensor and camera are available.

Comparables: The Sportage competes with many small SUVs and crossovers including the Jeep Cherokee, Compass and Patriot, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, MINI Countryman, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi RVR, Nissan Rogue, Subaru XV Crosstrek and Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Volkswagen Tiguan.

From Red Bull Racing

Paul Bischof is an engineer for Red Bull Racing. He designs parts that Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Riccardo then race. The team first became aware of him when it saw what Paul does for fun.

That is building paper models of planes and cars from cardboard, tinfoil and discarded giftwrap.

Red Bull RB7 by Paul Bischof (Photo: Siemens AG)

It all start when Paul was eighth. But for the last decade, he has been building 1/10th scale models of Formula One and sports cars. Each model contains around 6,500 individual parts and takes upwards of a year to complete.

It caught the attention of Red Bull Racing's chief designer Rob Marshall, who invited Paul for an interview at Milton Keynes. The rest is history. Paul became a composite design engineer for the team, as you now know.

Here is a video made by David Betteridge that tells the story of Paul Bischof.

Pros
FJ Cruiser is a capable off-road vehicle that can be used in town with ease. It comes with practical instrumentation, large doors, and a sparse interior.

Cons
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled vehicle to the Land Cruiser FJ series that rivaled Land Rover in off-road ability. The FJ Cruiser has the simplicity, but not the ability to play in that league. 

Photo: Toyota

Price
MSRP is $33,540 for a base model. MSRP for a basic off-road version is $37,050.

Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined in L/100 km)
Manual transmission: 13.8/10.3/12.2
Automatic Transmission: 12.7/9.5/11.3

Improvements and changes
The FJ Cruiser bounces into 2014 virtually unchanged. Based on the 4Runner platform, much of the optional equipment is similar.

Exterior Styling
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is styled to be a modern imitation of its namesake. The old-style fenders and hood attached to the upright and box-like cabin evoke memories of off-road greatness. The front doors open nearly 90 degrees as do the rear half doors that make side loading and unloading of gear or people easy. At the back is a two-part rear door. The glass is one part and pops open at the push of a switch, while the entire door swings open for ease of loading.

Inside
The traditional “garden hose” interior can still be cleaned that way. You do need to be a bit more carful of the electrics in the dash area, but the floor mats and flooring are all rubberized and built for that type of treatment. The off-road package includes a set of interesting gauges that let you know all the angles the FJ Cruiser is at. Some find it quite entertaining to watch. The front buckets are comfortable and provide decent support for off-road work. The rear seat is more an accessory for short trips than a seat to be used over long distances.

Cargo/towing/payload capacity
Maximum towing capacity is 2,268 kg (5,000 lb).

Maximum cargo volume behind the front seats is 1,890 litres. With the second-row seat in place it is 790 litres. Maximum payload is 1,230 kg (2,712 lb).

Powertrain
The only engine used is the DOHC, 24-valve, dual variable valve timing (VVT-i) V6 that puts out 260 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard and a 5-speed automatic is optional. Full-time 4WD is standard while a part-time system with an automatically disconnecting differential is optional. Active traction control, rear differential lock, a 2-speed transfer case with protector palates is all standard. Crawl control is only available when ordered with an automatic transmission.

Safety
Dual front, front seat side impact, and full-length side curtain airbags are standard. All seating positions have three-point lap belts. The LATCH system to anchor child seats is standard. A tire pressure monitoring system is standard. STARS safety system which consists of stability control, traction control, ABS, electronic Brake force distribution, and brake assist are all standard along with four-wheel disc brakes.

Comparables
Jeep Wrangler, Nissan Xterra, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Tribeca, Kia Sorrento, Nissan Murano, Ford Edge.

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 KV Racing

KV Racing Technology will field a car for IndyCar veteran Townsend Bell, sponsored by Robert Graham at the 2014 Indianapolis 500, May 25, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana.

Bell will pilot the No. 6 Robert Graham - KV Racing Technology Chevrolet/Dallara/Firestone entry. He will join Sebastien Bourdais, No. 11 Hydroxycut /Mistic E-Cigs - KVSH Racing Chevrolet/Dallara/Firestone and Sebastian Saavedra, No. 17 KV AFS Racing Chevrolet/Dallara/Firestone, in a three-car effort for the team. 

"I am pleased to announce that Townsend Bell and Robert Graham will be joining KV Racing Technology for the 2014 Indianapolis 500," said KVRT co-owner Kevin Kalkhoven.

Townsend Bell, 2013 (Photo: townsendbell.com)

"Townsend is a proven talent who will provide valuable experience and knowledge to the team during the month of May. I also want to welcome and thank Robert Graham for joining our effort."

"We are very pleased to associate Robert Graham with Townsend Bell for the 2014 Indianapolis 500," said Michael Buckley, Chief Executive Officer of Robert Graham.

Bell, a 38-year-old American, who resides in Pacific Palisades, California spends much of his time now as a Verizon IndyCar Series broadcast analyst for NBC Sports and advising young drivers about the business of motor racing. He also competes in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship driving for AIM Autosport with Ferrari.

Bell, who will be contesting a major U. S. based open-wheel event for the 12th season, will be making his eighth start at the Brickyard. In seven previous Indy 500's he has a best starting of fourth, in 2011, and has earned three top-10 finishes with a best showing of fourth in 2009, coincidentally, while competing with KV Racing Technology.

Model: 2009 to 2013 Nissan GT-R

Vehicle Type: Performance Coupe

Pricing for the used Nissan GT-R: Shoppers after a used Nissan GT-R can expect the bidding to open in the mid-$60,000 range for an earlier unit and climb to beyond $100,000 for a newer, low-mileage unit.

Photo: Sébastien D'Amour

History/Description of the used Nissan GT-R: So, you want to go fast, do you? The Nissan GT-R re-entered the North American market for model year 2009, minus the Skyline badge, fully engineered to do just that. All models get a 3.8L, twin-turbo V6 engine that drives all four wheels via a paddle-shift, dual-clutch gearbox, and feature chassis and braking systems validated on various racing circuits to turn in highly accessible performance in any weather or locale.

Earlier models got 480 horsepower, and that figured climbed over the years to 485, then 530, then 545. Note that from 2011 on, various revisions to the engine, brakes, and chassis improved performance over the original launch model.

Elsewhere, look for Bluetooth, navigation, multimedia inputs, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, and a special 11-speaker BOSE audio system for when you get tired of listening to turbocharger noises. Further, note that Nissan engineers made special efforts to ensure the GT-R would, when needed, accommodate four adults and a trunk full of gear.

Photo: Sébastien D'Amour

The Used Nissan GT-R Test Drive: As with any used ride, a few points are important to keep in mind during your shopping and test-drive process.

The majority of GT-R owners online report a model that's reliable and suitable as an everyday driver, so long as regular maintenance schedules are adhered to. Though the GT-R's regular maintenance isn't cheap, being sure to treat it to regular servicing as outlined in the owner's manual seems an ideal way to enjoy maximum reliability and confidence. As such, be sure the seller is able to provide full service records indicating that all service requirements have been addressed.

Another option is seeking out a GT-R from a Nissan certified pre-owned program. Note, however, that the GT-R can't be serviced at just any Nissan dealer -- select dealers use special equipment and special technicians to carry out work on the GT-R. Track down the nearest GT-R certified dealer in your area, as you'll need to bring your new twin-turbo rocket-coupe there when it needs work.

The owner's community notes issues with the GT-R's transmission, up to and including transmission failure, possibly caused by abusive driving and excessive use of the Launch Control function which was removed from the car after its first model year. Launch Control loads the transmission up heavily with full power for fast off-the-line starts, and owners upset at Nissan voiding GT-R warranties if they used it carried out a class action lawsuit. For added confidence, buy a GT-R you don't suspect was abused or opt for a model from a dealer with extended warranty for maximum peace of mind. Do not buy a GT-R that you suspect has been abused and mistreated. Note that past abuse may show itself in numerous ways, including tires and brakes that are worn out, and burnt engine oil.

Photo: Sébastien D'Amour

A loud or intrusive “rattle” from the front of the vehicle on earlier models is likely the result of a bad flywheel bearing, though numerous owners have had this fixed under warranty.

A full mechanical check-over from a GT-R certified mechanic, as well as a test drive by that mechanic, should be considered ahead of your purchase, as well as a full computer systems scan. 

Avoid models with non-factory engine management or questionable performance part add-ons for maximum long-term peace of mind.

Photo: Sébastien D'Amour

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.

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.

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.

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?"