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Aug
13th

2014 Volkswagen CC Highline Review

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Style and practicality can fall in love with each other, but where would they live? The answer is the 2014 Volkswagen CC.

Those who want the sleek silhouette of a coupe, but the practicality of a four-door sedan don't need to look much further than this German vehicle.


Falling for the CC

I find the CC to be one of the most attractive nameplates in the VW lineup. Not necessarily because of its earth-shattering power (it's relatively humble), but because there's a sexiness to it that is subtle yet overt.

From the classy chrome accents to an attractive front end, LED signature daytime running lights (DRL), fog lights and more, the CC is one sleek car. I also love the 18” 'Interlagos' alloy wheels named after the region in São Paulo, Brazil, where the Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place.

Volkswagen CC price & specs
You've got a couple of options when it comes to engines that power the CC. The first is a 200-horsepower, 2.0L inline 4-cylinder TSI engine that's turbocharged with an intercooler and direct injection. It also produces 207 lb-ft of torque.

The other engine is a 3.6L VR6 with a healthy 280 horsepower, 265 lb-ft of torque, and a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system. This one only comes with a 6-speed automatic, while the 2.0T can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DSG.

Because I was driving the Highline trim, I had the ability to work through the gears via the conventional shifter or the DSG paddle shifters. I preferred working with the latter since I didn't have to take my hands off the steering wheel. Being able to change my own gears made it all more engaging.

Life inside the 2014 Volkswagen CC
It's hard to knock off style points anywhere on the CC. Well, that's unless it's in regards to ingress through the rear doors. Watch your head, because it's not very forgiving.

Once inside, you're greeted by warm German hospitality. There's also room for five now (one more seat than in previous models), although the best seat in the house remains the driver's seat.

Gently hugged by the leather-clad seats, the ergonomic setup of the CC is fantastic. VW also did a great job of making it easy to pair your mobile device with the Bluetooth system.

Then there's the centre stack. The combination of a touchscreen and buttons can appeal to a broad range of customers. It's a feature that's not exclusive to the CC, mind you; it's echoed throughout the model lineup and receives a very high score in my book.

Creature comforts making the drive even better include 12-way power-adjustable front seats with power lumbar support, a panoramic sunroof, air conditioning, and more.

Take the CC for a spin, you'll love it!
Having a sport suspension underneath the CC is a recipe for fun times on the road. The electromechanical power assisted steering also guides this 4-door coupe into corners with confidence and poise. Body roll is kept to a minimum, so you can push just a little bit more for that extra dose of adrenaline -- but don't push too hard unless you want to attract unnecessary attention!

Whether driving solo or with passengers, the Volkswagen CC invites all occupants to partake in its quietness. However, if you want to turn the volume up on something, let it be the 600-Watt Dynaudio sound system with 10 speakers, which is part of the Technology Package along with a navigation system, touchscreen, and 30GB hard drive.

Price-wise, the 2014 CC Highline starts at $40,575. With the optional DSG and Technology Package, prepare to shell out $44,275 (excluding the $1,395 destination charge and taxes).
Comparing the 2014 Volkswagen CC

Until recently, there wasn't much competition for the CC. You could group it in with the midsize sedans since it is based on the Passat, but that wouldn't be the fairest of comparisons. However, Mercedes-Benz now offers their new front-wheel drive CLA at a handsome price of $34,300.
Aug
13th

Saab’s new owner NEVS in deep trouble again

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National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS), the Hong Kong-based group that purchased Saab in June 2012, has yet to pay one of its suppliers and what comes next may very well be the final nail in the coffin.

LaboTest AB, which supplies the automaker with test equipment for car components, submitted a petition to the Swedish District Court on Tuesday to declare NEVS bankrupt, meaning the 250 workers at the Trollhätan plant once again have their hopes crushed.

NEVS is owned by the city of Qingdao and China's National Modern Energy Holding.

The bankruptcy proceedings will be held on September 18th.

Source : lefigaro.fr
Aug
13th

F1: Juan Pablo Montoya thinks F1 has a lot to learn from American racing

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The outspoken Juan Pablo Montoya thinks Formula 1 could learn a lot by looking at how things are done in America, especially in the IndyCar series.

The 38-year-old Colombian has raced in both series: F1 between 2001 and 2006, and IndyCar since 2014 with a NASCAR spell in between.

Like many, he thinks the new sound of F1 is hurting the series. But the rise of costs are also a problem, and so is the way fans are treated.

It's in the last area that Formula 1 has the most to learn.

Juan Pablo Montoya, winner of the 2003 Monaco Grand Prix.
Juan Pablo Montoya, winner of the 2003 Monaco Grand Prix. (Photo: WRI2)

"Number one, F1 has to change the sound," he is quoted saying by British magazine Autosport.

"(Also) they still spend all the money in the world," he added. "One team there could probably sponsor the whole series here.

"(But to get fans engaged,) they ought to look at IndyCar. I think IndyCar does the best job of looking after its fans.

"It's very different (for fans), just walking around seeing the cars," the former McLaren and Williams driver noted. "F1, (the paddock) is always closed.

"Formula 1, being very European, they think it's a sport. And it is a sport. But the way it's played ... the fans have to like it."


Aug
13th

F1: Tobacco company plays down Lotus rumours

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From GMM

Imperial Tobacco has played down reports it is looking to return to Formula 1 with Lotus.

Recently, Pastor Maldonado said he would welcome the inspiration of Lotus' black and gold livery - the iconic John Player Special cigarette brand - back to the sport with Enstone.

Tobacco advertising in F1 is banned, but Ferrari continues to be backed by Philip Morris, whose Marlboro colours resemble the imagery on the Italian team's cars and logos.

"For sure, a sponsor is welcome," Venezuelan Maldonado said. "Whoever can join the team, it's always welcome."

But John Player Special parent Imperial Tobacco has played down the rumours.

Pastor Maldonado, Lotus E22
Pastor Maldonado, Lotus E22 (Photo: WRi2)

"As is well known, sponsorship in Formula 1 with tobacco companies has been prohibited for quite some time," group press officer Simon Evans told Speed Week.

"Our company would never act in a way that amounts to a breach of the law."

However, those comments would seem to leave the door open for a partnership along the lines of Ferrari's with Philip Morris.

Evans replied: "I have no knowledge of the details of the agreement between Philip Morris International and Ferrari.

"I can only repeat that we do not seek a sponsorship agreement with a team."


Aug
13th

Danica Patrick in the Top 5 best-paid female athletes

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Forbes magazine has published its list of the best-paid female athletes in the world.

The list is made largely of tennis players, with one race car driver.

These top 5 women made the most money between June 2013 and June 2014 from prize money, salary, licensing, appearances and endorsements.

No. 1 Maria Sharapova, tennis player
Total earnings: $24.4 million
Prize money: $2.4 million
Endorsements: $22 million

No. 2 Li Na, tennis player
Total earnings: $23.6 million
Prize money: $5.6 million
Endorsements: $18 million

No. 3 Serena Williams, tennis player
Total earnings: $22 million
Prize money: $11 million
Endorsements: $11 million

No. 4 Kim Yuna, skater

Total earnings: $16.3 million
Prize money: $300,000
Endorsements: $16 million

No. 5 Danica Patrick, NASCAR driver
Total earnings: $15 million
Salary/winnings: $7 million
Endorsements/licensing: $8 million

Despite not having won a single race in NASCAR, Danica Patrick remains one of the sport's biggest draws and has more than 10 personal endorsement partners, including Coca-Cola, Tissot and Peak.

She also appeared in a record 13 Super Bowl commercials for her main NASCAR sponsor, GoDaddy.


Aug
13th

NASCAR: Alex Tagliani to make Truck series debut with Brad Keselowski Racing

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From press release

Brad Keselowski  Racing announced today that Alex Tagliani will drive the team's No. 19 Ford F-150 in the August 31 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park in Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada.

Tagliani, a native of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, has five NASCAR Nationwide Series starts sprinkled over six seasons dating back to 2009.

He has racked up two poles and two top five finishes and enters the NCWTS event at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park on the heels of a strong performance at the recent NNS race at Road America (Elkhart Lake, Wisc.), where he won the pole and scored a strong second-place finish.

Tagliani also scored a second place finish at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal in 2011 and won the pole there in 2012. 

Alex Tagliani
(Photo: Tagliani Autosport)

"Alex did a heck of a job in the Nationwide car for Team Penske at Road America and I knew I had to put him in one of my trucks," Keselowski said.  "I'm looking forward to seeing what he can do."

The race will be the debut for Tagliani in NCWTS competition and adds to his diverse racing portfolio, which includes the Indianapolis 500, IndyCar, road racing and Champ Car competition. 

"It's an honour to get a call to drive for Brad's team this year, especially after sharing the No. 22 Team Penske Nationwide car with him for two races," Tagliani said.

"It will be my first time competing in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, but Mosport is a great track to drive and I am hoping to be able to help the team with a strong result."

The former IndyCar driver currently competes as an owner/driver in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series and in the United Sports Car Championship.


Aug
13th

F1: Kamui Kobayashi approves sweeping changes at Caterham

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From GMM

Japanese driver Kamui Kobayashi has backed the sweeping changes at Caterham, even though it has put his Formula 1 future in doubt.

After founder Tony Fernandes' sudden sale and departure, the Malaysian team entered the hands of mysterious Swiss-Middle Eastern investors and new bosses Colin Kolles and Christijan Albers.

Almost immediately, 40 staff were controversially axed.

The next possibility is a change in the green-lined cockpits, with Swedish rookie Marcus Ericsson adequately backed but exciting Japanese driver Kobayashi substantially unfunded.

Dutchman Albers admitted recently that he has had talks with the cream of the Red Bull junior programme, Carlos Sainz Jr.

When asked about Ericsson and Kobayashi, he said: "I want to see results -- that's very important for every formula one team."

The former Spyker and Minardi driver said he thinks Caterham's current duo is doing "a good job", but he also hinted that a change cannot be ruled out.

"We know we need performance and also of course with a team like Caterham we also always need a little bit of budget," said Albers.

Kamui Kobayashi
Kamui Kobayashi's place in F1 is on the line once more (Photo: WRi2)

Although perhaps the most likely driver to make way at Caterham, Kobayashi insists he backs the sweeping changes at the struggling team.

"I think this is what we needed, otherwise I think we couldn't finish the season," he said. "It was the right move.

"As you see in the news I think quite a lot of people left straight away but I think we need to keep motivated. I think if we want to survive we need to change something," Kobayashi added.

"Of course, it's the same from my side. I think I need to always drive 100 per cent, which gives motivation. Let's see what happens."


Aug
13th

Hyundai, Kia to pay Quebec owners in class action

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In November 2012, Hyundai and Kia admitted to misrepresenting their vehicles' fuel economy, which led to a class action against both companies. A settlement with the plaintiffs was reached last January... except in Quebec.

That changed last week when a Quebec judge ruled in favour of Hyundai and Kia owners, represented by Siskinds Desmeules.

Compensations are based on mileage. Over the next few weeks customers will be notified in the media and through a special website, and invited to fill a compensation form.

Under the terms of the proposed settlement, they may choose a one-time lump sum cash payment or join the ongoing reimbursement program for as long as they lease or own the affected vehicles. Customers can also elect other options, such as a dealership credit of 150% of the lump sum cash payment amount, or a credit of 200% of the cash amount toward the purchase of a new Hyundai or Kia vehicle.

If you leased or own one of the following vehicles, you are entitled to a compensation:

Hyundai:
  • 2011-2012 Sonata Hybrid;
  • 2011-2013 Elantra;
  • 2012-2013 Accent;
  • 2012-2013 Genesis;
  • 2012-2013 Tucson;
  • 2012-2013 Veloster;
  • 2013 Elantra GT and Elantra Coupe;
  • 2013 Santa Fe.
Kia:
  • 2011-2012 Optima Hybrid;
  • 2012-2013 Rio;
  • 2012-2013 Sorento;
  • 2012-2013 Soul;
  • 2012-2013 Sportage.

Source : argent.canoe.ca
Aug
13th

Dodge unleashes 2015 Charger SRT Hellcat

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Hot on the heels of the insanely powerful Challenger SRT Hellcat comes the new 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, which is directly inspired by the classic 1969 model.

With a 6.2L V8 HEMI producing 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, the Charger SRT Hellcat becomes the fastest and most powerful sedan in the world. Its unrivalled 4-door performance includes NHRA-certified quarter mile elapsed time in 11.0 seconds on street tires, 0-100-0 mph (0-160-0 km/h) in under 13 seconds, and a top speed of 204 mph (328 km/h).

2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
Photo: Dodge

The 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat also uses an 8-speed, heavy-duty automatic transmission, 15.4'' 2-piece brake rotors with 6-piston Brembo callipers, 20'' forged aluminum wheels with Pirelli P Zero performance tires, and 3-mode adaptive damping. Similar to the Challenger SRT Hellcat, it comes standard with two key fobs: The red one is the only key that can unlock the full horsepower and torque potential of the SRT Hellcat engine, while the black key fob limits the driver to a reduced engine output.

Despite paying tribute to vintage Chargers, the new Charger SRT Hellcat features state-of-the-art technology such as an 8.4'' Uconnect touchscreen and a 900W, 18-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, not to mention heated and cooled front seats.

Pricing for the 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat will be announced later. Stay tuned for Canadian details.
Source : Chrysler

2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
Photo: Dodge


Aug
13th

Kevin Ward Sr. very angry with Tony Stewart

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In an interview given to Syracuse.com, Kevin Ward Sr. spoke publicly for the first time about the death of his son, Kevin Ward Jr.

The angry father blamed Stewart for striking and killing his son during a dirt race at Canandaigua Motorsports Park on Saturday night.

Ward Jr. and Stewart had contact during the race, forcing Ward into a retirement.

Ward got out of his car, ran onto the track and angrily gestured at Stewart. Seconds later, Stewart's right rear tire struck Ward and threw him an estimated 20-30 feet, fatally injuring him.

"I think the reason he (Ward Jr.) probably got out of that car is who put him into the wall. He was definitely put into the wall," Ward Sr. told Syracuse.com.

"Tony Stewart was the best damn driver by far on the track that night. Why he had to go up as high as he did and hog my son, there's no reason for it."

"Apparently, Tony Stewart was the only one driving out there who didn't see him," Ward Sr. told the New York state website, noting that several other drivers on track avoided his son.

"The one person that knows what happened that night is possibly facing 10 years in prison. Is he going to say what he done?"

As for the social media reaction, Ward Sr. told Syracuse.com, "A situation happened and everybody has their own opinions," Ward Sr. said. "Some are way off, some without a clue and some are very hurtful. A 20-year-old talented driver was killed and that's what we need to focus on. ... We've had a lot of messages sent. We are so thankful. If everybody could just pray for us, we'll get through it."


Aug
13th

The career of legendary Formula 1 driver, Gilles Villeneuve

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Canadian, Gilles Villeneuve has undoubtedly been one of the most popular Formula 1 drivers of all time, despite a short career that saw him win just six of the 67 Grands Prix he contested between 1977 and 1982.

More than for his victories, Villeneuve's acclaim around the globe was for his great human qualities, his honesty and his stunning determination. His driving style and passing manoeuvres were incredibly spectacular, and he never, ever gave up despite the mechanical gremlins or the bad luck. He always gave his very best, whatever his starting position on the grid happened to be.

Here is a collection of the features, photos and videos we posted during the 2012 season to commemorate the 30th anniversary of his tragic death that took place Saturday May 8, 1982, during the second qualifying session for the Belgian Grand Prix at Zolder.


The early days

At a young age, Gilles Villeneuve fulfilled his need for speed in a very unusual manner, competing in drag racing and in snowmobile racing on icy ovals.

He then followed his first road-racing course before he went on to win the Quebec Formula Ford 1600 championship and the North American Formula Atlantic series.

Breaking the ice (+photos and video)

His first driving course

His stunning Formula Ford 1600 debuts (+photos)

Making his mark in Formula Atlantic (+photos)


His maiden Formula 1 Grand Prix

Beaten by Villeneuve in the Formula Atlantic race held in the streets of Trois-Rivieres in 1976, British F1 driver, James Hunt, was so impressed that he spoke very highly of the young Villeneuve to his McLaren boss, Teddy Mayer.

Gilles Villeneuve F1 Ferrari
His first Grand Prix with McLaren in 1977. (Photo: WRI2)

Villeneuve contested his first F1 race at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone in July 1977.

His first Formula 1 contract with McLaren!

His first Grand Prix with McLaren at Silverstone (+video)

His first Grand Prix with McLaren in 1977



The Ferrari years

Against all odds, Enzo Ferrari himself chose Villeneuve at the end of 1977 to drive the prestigious Scuderia Ferrari. A teammate of Carlos Reutemann in 1978, Villeneuve captured his first F1 victory in front of his home crowd in Montreal in October 1978.

Video of his lap of Zandvoort circuit on three wheels!

A few stories from his business manager, Gaston Parent

Video of his first Formula 1 victory in Montreal

Ferrari F1 car driven by Gilles Villeneuve vs Italian jet fighter (+video)

1978 Long Beach Grand Prix (+videos)


Gilles Villeneuve F1 Ferrari
Gilles Villeneuve behind the wheel of the 312T3 at Fiorano. (Photo: Ferrari)

Memories from his arch rivals

Gilles Villeneuve's rivals talk about the racecar driver, but also the great human being that Villeneuve was.

When Patrick Tambay took over the No. 27 Ferrari

Memories from Alan Jones

Memories from Jean-Pierre Jarier

Testimony from his friend René Arnoux (+video)

John Watson's words about the tragedy

Mario Andretti's testimony


May 8 commemoration


The 30th anniversary of Gilles Villeneuve's tragic death

Remembering Gilles Villeneuve's tragic death

The tragic loss of Gilles Villeneuve

Video of Jacques Villeneuve driving the Ferrari 312 T4 of his father Gilles (+video)

Jacques Villeneuve drives his father Gilles' Ferrari 312 T4 at Fiorano

Details of the Ferrari 312 T4 Jacques Villeneuve will drive at Fiorano (+photos, video)


Rare and never published photos

Rare photos of the career of the late Gilles Villeneuve (Part 1)

Rare photos of the career of Gilles Villeneuve (Part 2)


Gilles Villeneuve ready to fly Walter Wolf's helicopter. (Photo: Lucie St-Jacques)


Aug
12th

TrueCar growing at faster pace than strong U.S. vehicle market

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TrueCar, the online car-shopping site that went public with its stock in May, is growing its sales and dealer network faster than overall U.S. vehicle sales and faster than analysts expected.
Aug
12th

GM hails Opel dealership take-up in European turnaround plan

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General Motors' European transformation is gathering pace, with the vast majority of its former Chevrolet dealers in the region now selling only Opel-branded vehicles to boost the once-flagging brand, the automaker said today.
Aug
12th

A (virtual) Rolls-Royce for the masses

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Rolls-Royce Motor Cars debuted the Wraith in 'Forza Motorsport 5' on the Xbox One today, a historic moment for driving game enthusiasts and an example of the branding opportunities automakers see in video games.
Aug
12th

Even millennials bypass social media during car-buying journey

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Despite years of hype by automakers and dealers, social media remain a non-starter for car shopping. Just 1 percent of car buyers use social sites to shop for a vehicle, according to an AutoTrader survey.
Aug
12th

SWEDEN: NEVS production staff at home as supplier woes continue

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National Electric Vehicle Sweden says some of its 250 production employees are at home following further struggles with short-term financing.
Aug
12th

Fiat won’t waive or raise Chrysler merger payout cap

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Fiat will not call a shareholders' meeting to waive or raise the 500 million euro ($668 million) limit it has set for paying out dissenters in its merger with Chrysler, the carmaker said Tuesday.
Aug
12th

Fiat says will not waive or raise payout cap in Chrysler merger

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Fiat will not call a shareholders' meeting to waive or raise the 500 million euro ($668 million) limit it has set for paying out dissenters in its merger with Chrysler, the carmaker said today.
Aug
12th

Record rainfall in Michigan disrupts Detroit 3 operations

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Southeast Michigan experienced record rainfall Monday, causing closures or slowdowns at Ford, General Motors and Chrysler plants and tech centers throughout the area.
Aug
12th

New Rolls-Royce Phantom test mule spied

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Rolls-Royce Phantom spy shots - front
News 12 Aug, 2014

After 11 years on sale, the Chichester-based brand finally starts work on replacing the iconic Rolls-Royce Phantom

With the current economy the last thing you need is for your vehicle to break down. Whether your driving a reliable car or a busted up van, insurance you can rely on is a must.
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