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News 23 Jul, 2014

Latest Driver Awareness Research Vehicle from Toyota has debuted in Colorado, targeting improved safety when using in-car tech

New BMW Group UK managing director Graeme Grieve is a former sales director of the British unit and starts on 1 October 2014.

Daimler booked a EUR2.2bn net profit in the second quarter of 2012 after boosting unit sales 4% to 628,900 and revenue 6% to EUR31.5bn. EBIT rose 12% to EUR2.5bn.

New vehicle sales in Malaysia increased by 9.2% to 58,561 in June, from 53,631 units in the same month of last year, according to data released by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

Ford's Fiesta is now the UK's best-selling vehicle nameplate of all time after total sales topped 4,115,000 this month, 37 years after launch.

News 23 Jul, 2014

Hot Wheels has produced a full-size car based on Darth Vader from Star Wars

News 23 Jul, 2014

Ford confirms Fiesta nameplate is now the UK’s best-selling car of all time, exceeding 4,115,000 sales since 1976

Daimler said second-quarter profit rose 12 percent as Mercedes S-class sales doubled and the company scaled back spending.

Head-up displays with "augmented reality," the technology that employs much of the windshield as a display area for data and images, is poised to significantly change how drivers see the road.

Bentley has named Marlies Rogait as its new head of human resources. Rogait, 57, has spent 20 years working in human resources, quality assurance and purchase for parent Volkswagen Group.

Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn was addressing thousands of workers at the automaker's biggest plant today as he attempts to win their support for cost cuts at the VW brand.

Bentley named VW Group executive Marlies Rogait as its new head of human resources.

Volkswagen faces a battle with workers over cost cuts at its biggest car division, a central plank of its drive to meet profit margin targets.

From GMM

Future F1 calendars could once again host two grands prix in Germany within a single season.

Recently, as it emerged the Nurburgring was close to a new deal with Bernie Ecclestone, it was said Hockenheim's F1 foray could end altogether.

Currently, the two German hosts alternate a single annual calendar spot.

Hockenheim reacted to the news of an annual Nurburgring deal with outrage, insisting it has a watertight contract for the alternating scheme through 2018.

Robertino Wild, chief of the Nurburgring's new owners Capricorn, has now responded by suggesting that Hockenheim's alternating scheme may need to be respected.

"Bernie Ecclestone and I want to complete the deal in the next few months which confirms formula one for the long-term at the Nurburgring," he told Auto Bild.

"This will be done taking into account the existing obligations, including with regard to the Hockenheimring," Robertino Wild added.

Nico Rosberg, Mercedes AMG, in Germany. (Photo: WRi2)

St-John's, NFLD -- I cannot, nor will I ever, find fault in the station wagon. I can see, in my mind's eye, Subaru people shaking their heads at the fact that I began my review of their new Outback with the words “station wagon.” From where I stand, it will always be a long-roof, however, never has the Outback looked more like a CUV than it does now.

I've been a fan of the Outback from the very beginning. A highly capable, versatile AWD wagon with an available manual transmission it's a combination bred from an automotive journalist's moist dream. Then, in 2005, it got better with the introduction of the turbocharged XT version. Although it died only a few short years later, I submit that this was the best Outback ever.

The only item the new car needs is a real engine: a turbocharged 4-cylinder. Simply put, everything else about the 2015 Outback is nearly perfect.


What is a Subaru Outback?
A trendsetter. The Outback could be credited with being the spark that set off today's most popular segment: the crossover utility vehicle.

It was first introduced in 1994 as a MY1995, blurring the lines between the car and the SUV. It's popularity skyrocketed in the following few years and never have more Outbacks been sold than with the previous generation car (2010-‘14).

The Subaru Outback celebrates 20 years and five generations with the arrival of its most refined, most capable, and fuel-efficient CUV alternative ever. This car is truly created around the needs of active people. Surveys have proved that few other cars/utility vehicles ignite the active outdoorsy person like the Outback.

2015 Subaru Outback Price and Specs
One of the very many attractive attributes of the 2015 Subaru Outback is its pricing. This is a substantial car and its base price is only $27,995. This price point gets you a 2.5i with a 6-speed manual box (unique to Canada). Throwing in the optional CVT transmission tacks on $1,300.

A Touring 3.6R, offered only with the CVT, retails for $35,495 or $3,500 more than the equivalent 2.5i Touring. The Tech Package (with EyeSight and smart key) can be had on most trims for an extra $1,200.

Engines are carry-overs from the previous generation, albeit both are on the receiving end of a vast number of improvements. The 2.5L flat-4, which represents 75% of all Outback sales, features new intake and exhaust components and lower friction internals. It generates 175 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. The 3.6L H6 puts out 256 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque.

As always and forever, the Outback is equipped with Subbie's Symmetrical AWD system as well as an X-MODE traction assist system with Hill Descent Control.

Driving the 2015 Subaru Outback
The 2015 Subaru Outback has fully matured in many ways. The previous generation took refinement to a level that was initially rare for Subaru, but this time around, the gang at Fuji Heavy Industries have raised the bar, on par or better, than a number of Japanese counterparts.

This is the highlight of the new 2015 Subaru Outback. Through numerous tweaks, including a 59% stiffer structure, handling and ride comfort have improved dramatically. The same goes for NVH and the overall quality feel of the car thanks to liquid-filled engine mounts and thicker high-strength steel body panels.

Steering response is now more immediate which weighs in heavily in the upgraded driving experience. Let's not forget that the Outback is a truly capable off-roader. It features 8.7" of ground clearance, which is greater than many so-called utility vehicles, as well as X-MODE. Its job is to optimize engine control, AWD, and braking -- it works flawlessly.

On the tarmac, standard torque vectoring helps keep the Outback pointed in the right direction. As far as road manners are concerned, the 2015 Subaru Outback is nearly perfect. The choice of engines is what hurts this otherwise excellent car. The CVT ‘box is an actual asset in this case.

Subaru's FB25 flat-4 has all the will in the world to get the 1,635+ kg (3,600+ lb) going, but the fact is that with the CVT the car requires nearly 10 seconds to reach 100 km/hr. Although smooth and capable of maintaining momentum and (on paper) relatively fuel-efficient I can't imagine the struggle or what the real-world fuel consumption would be with a trailer, gear, and four passengers onboard.

The optional flat-6 is far more torque-y, however, the downside is that I observed a more than 30% fuel consumption reading than the indicated combined 10.5L/100km.

Inside and Out of the 2015 Subaru Outback
As a station wagon, the Outback is once more faultless. Of all the car's iterations, this 5th generation Outback looks more like a CUV than ever -- I guess I can deal with that.

The 2015 Outback has received a dose of modern masculinity with the proper nips and tucks. Visibility is enhanced thanks to the "A" pillars moving forward giving a sharper rake. The presence of the large heritage fog lights and black lower rocker panels make the 2015 Outback instantly recognizable.

The positioning of the “A” pillars also gives the interior a larger more comfortable feel. These same adjectives go for the new seats. The cabin features new soft-touch materials, and a handsome steering wheel. The dash design is fresh and modern, a growing trend for Subaru that was never quite up to the task where interiors were concerned.

The 2015 Subaru Outback maintains one of its key features which is its large trunk, now a little over 1,000 litres with the second row up. The rear seat has grown slightly and gained optional heating. Among other niceties are the standard 6.2” display and available power rear tailgate.

Comparing the 2015 Subaru Outback
The Outback is essentially in a class all its own, but competition is fierce and comes in many shapes and sizes. The Honda Crosstour is closest in vocation, however, its days are numbered.

The Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Venza, and Ford Edge are options but there's no way to beat the Outback at its own game. Now, if Subaru would just drop the WRX's 2.0L turbo under the bonnet, I could add a 3rd Subbie to my family fleet.

From GMM

Romain Grosjean could still be looking at a Lotus future beyond 2014.

At Hockenheim, the Enstone based team confirmed that Pastor Maldonado, backed by the powerful Venezuelan sponsor PDVSA, is staying put next year.

Frenchman Grosjean's prospects, however, looked less sure, as his manager Eric Boullier is now the boss at McLaren, and his backers Renault and Total could make way at Lotus for a new Mercedes partnership for 2015.

But Lotus deputy chief Federico Gastaldi said Romain Grosjean, 28, might still be staying in black and gold for 2015.

"Let's be honest," he said. "Romain as a top, top driver is not happy with the 2014 season and this is mirrored by everyone at the team of course.

"We cannot confirm anything just yet as the timing will be right when we are both comfortable to announce something. All I can say is that it's certainly the intention for Romain to stay at Enstone and continue what has been a great partnership and working relationship," Federico Gastaldi added.

Romain Grosjean, Lotus E22-Renault. (Photo: WRi2)

There's no denying it, the Mazda CX-5 is a great little crossover. From the way it drives to the way it looks on the outside, its appeal is apparent. As our long-term tester made the rounds in the office, we've had some good feedback in terms of driveability and fuel economy, but this time we wanted to take a look at the inside only.


So, here it is: the good, the bad, and the ugly.

The Good

Comfortable: Yup, this is one comfortable CUV. Up front, the driver's seat is both supportive and comfy. While we pointed out the fact that the passenger doesn't have the luxury of multiple seat settings in our first update, the driver does. That means, no matter what your size or driving style, the CX-5 will be a perfect fit.

Traversing bumpy country roads behind the wheel of the 2015 Mazda CX-5 proved not only that the suspension was quite good, but also that the seats are, as well.

Rear-seat space: With a large Britax child seat installed, the back of the Mazda CX-5 is still quite spacious. While I wouldn't recommend two adults sitting back there with my son, one will be just fine. And installation of the baby seat was a breeze thanks to the height of the vehicle (no need to bend over to click LATCH system in or to get my son into his seat).

Rear-seat armrest: I really appreciate cars that offer a fold-down armrest with cup holders in the bench seat in the back. That means my son has a place to put his drink, snacks, and toys. His car seat doesn't have a built-in cup holder, so having a car that has its own is mint. And the CX-5's is at just the right height for him and his seat. Perfect.

The Bad

Sticky stalk: Maybe it was just me, but I found myself getting so annoyed with the turn-signal stalk. It was so sticky and tough to click quickly. I couldn't just use one finger to push it up or down and hold it for a few seconds to do a Euro three-flash turn signal. I had to actually grip the stalk with my left hand and place it up or down -- same to disengage. Something like that will make people not want to use it, and we definitely don't need that!

The Ugly

Surviving Mommy-brain: I considered not bringing this up, but since the CX-5 faired so well, why the hell not? This is only “ugly” because it could have been so much more. Upon returning from a week-long trip, I drove the Mazda CX-5 home with all windows open, including the sunroof, but only tilted up, not entirely open (thankfully). That night it rained, and heavily. I left the sunroof tilted open.

Upon entering the car it was clear that something was a bit off. However, the car was by no means soaked. In fact, the rain had only dowsed the seats, and only on the sides. A bit of paper towel later and all the water was gone. I was impressed with the CX-5's ability to overcome my lack of smarts and keep the little CUV from drowning.

It's a shame cars don't come with sunroof sensors to remind you that one has been left open, just as they would a door or hatchback. Just a thought...



Continuing its winning streak
There's a really good reason we chose the Mazda CX-5 as our long-term vehicle: because we know how good it can be. And as we encroach on the 8,000km mark of distance travelled behind the wheel, we can't help but continue to find primarily only good things to say about it.

From GMM

Niki Lauda has swiftly hit reverse, after using an expletive to describe the cars fielded in 2014 by Mercedes' grandee rivals McLaren and Ferrari.

"McLaren has the same engine as us and the car is sh*t," Mercedes' F1 chairman had told the Spanish newspaper El Pais.

"The same with Ferrari -- another sh*t car," the former Ferrari champion added.

After the publication of his blunt assessment, Lauda has now apologised privately and publicly to Ferrari.

"I apologise to Ferrari, to Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, and to the Italian fans. I should not have used that word," the great Austrian told Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I was wrong and I do not make excuses. I called the president to explain my dismay," Niki Lauda added. "I have not seen the interview in the Spanish daily, but I was too heavy with my words -- forgive me."

Ferrari F14 T. (Photo: WR2i)

Niki Lauda also told the German newspaper Bild: "I explained to him (Montezemolo) and he understood. We have known each other for so long.

"I was asked a question about the difference between Mercedes and McLaren and Ferrari. I explained that Mercedes is simply the best combination of good car with the best engine, that McLaren also has the best engine but the car is not so good. And Ferrari has weaknesses on both sides," he added.

But Lauda made a point of saying Mercedes continues to regard Ferrari as a worthy opponent, particularly ahead of this weekend's Hungarian grand prix.

"I am even worried about the Ferraris in Budapest," he said, "because they have come much closer to us in the last races.

"Also Red Bull, who have a perfect car and only problems with the engine. But at the right moment also Ferrari can catch us on the wrong foot, as they are more dangerous than we thought before," Lauda insisted.

Also in the pages of La Gazzetta, Lauda made clear he actually does not regard Ferrari as having produced merely a "sh*t car".

"I have noticed at Hockenheim a Ferrari in progress," he said, "and I'm amused to see Fernando Alonso in the duels he has been in. I hope Kimi Raikkonen can recover, as he is a champion in a position that he does not belong."

As for Mercedes, Niki Lauda sees the outcome of the 2014 championship as a straight fight between teammates Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton.

"Lewis was unlucky at Hockenheim but drove a great race anyway, while Nico had obviously an easier time and won. The championship will be decided by the alternating fortunes and misfortunes of our two drivers. But the others are approaching and I understand that Ferrari will soon be very dangerous for everyone, starting with us," he added.

From GMM

Daniel Ricciardo insists he does not feel the famous lure of Maranello.

Although born and raised in Australia, the impressive 25-year-old's father is from Sicily.

But when asked by the Italian sports daily La Gazzetta dello Sport if driving for Ferrari is the ultimate 'dream', Ricciardo - who rose through the ranks of the energy drink Red Bull's junior programme - gave a surprising answer.

"To be honest I think this is just a cliche," said Ricciardo, whose family has always pronounced its Italian-sounding surname as 'Ric-ardo'.

"For sure some drivers have this dream," he admitted, "but I think it's related to the fact that their parents loved Ferrari for its great history and cultural heritage.

"My Italian DNA definitely comes out in my eating. I love Italian food, especially when I am training hard and can eat properly," Ricciardo grinned his customary grin.

Stand Ferrari. (Photo: WRi2)

So rather than dreaming of Ferrari, Ricciardo told the Italian news agency Adnkronos that he is more than enjoying his first year with Red Bull's premier team.

"I was hoping for a year like this," he said. "I knew that if I did everything right, it was possible to fight on equal terms with Sebastian (Vettel). I think I've started the year very well, so the goal is just to keep doing what I'm doing."

As for the ever-controversial format of today's formula one, Ricciardo said that while some have been highly critical, he is enjoying 2014.

"You can't please everyone. If someone thinks it's boring you have to understand that. But I think it's a sport and really nice and exciting and I love to see the enthusiasm of the fans at the grands prix," Daniel Ricciardo insisted.

Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull Racing, winner in Canada. (Photo: WRi2)

From GMM

According to sources, Fernando Alonso could be contractually free to walk away from Ferrari.

Technically, the Spaniard remains under contract to the struggling Maranello team until the end of 2016.

"I'm sure he is very frustrated, but he can't just go to McLaren because he has a contract that he can't get out of unless he's sacked. Sometimes you choose a car and you're wrong," Niki Lauda told the Spanish newspaper El Pais earlier this week.

Mercedes team chairman Lauda, however, may not be right. There are at least two recent examples of drivers with solid Ferrari contracts who did not wear red the next year.

Ferrari said in 2004 that Rubens Barrichello would drive for the team in the "2005 and 2006 seasons", but the Brazilian actually raced a Honda in 2006.

And Kimi Raikkonen famously took a sabbatical in 2010, after Ferrari bought out his contract to make way for Fernando Alonso and Santander.

Now, Italian media sources say Alonso might not necessarily drive a red car in 2015, even though Ferrari reportedly wants to extend the deal even further.

Fernando Alonso, Ferrari F14 T. (Photo: WRi2)

The sources, including Autosprint, say Alonso could be free to go at the end of this season due to a contractual performance clause, requiring Ferrari to finish at least third in the constructors' championship.

In Hockenheim, Ferrari fell behind Williams for that position.

Autosprint cited German sources in saying Alonso, 32, has already made contact with Mercedes.

Meanwhile, in the wake of speculation Ferrari might oust the struggling Raikkonen ahead of 2015, boss Marco Mattiacci insisted the Finn is a "driver that Ferrari needs for next year".

That also ties in with the information of the respected Ferrari insider Leo Turrini.

"Maranello has not the slightest intention of questioning Raikkonen's contract," he said in his Quotidiano blog.

On the other hand, Turrini claims Alonso "has not yet responded to the proposal for the extension of his contract".

And not only that, "Ross Brawn will accept a role only as an external consultant", he added.