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I've driven a lot of MINIs over the years, and totally by choice. You all know by now my obsession and slightly biased opinions when it comes to MINIs. I adore these little cars from their quirky designs to their go-kart drivability. There's just something about a MINI that really speaks to me.

While I've always enjoyed driving the base MINI Cooper (especially with a stick shift), I've always felt something was a little lacking, which is where the Cooper S desire came flooding in. However, with the introduction of a brand new engine in the base Cooper, I think this may be the very best base MINI I've ever driven. And in its current state, I believe you could very well be just as happy with a base Cooper as you would with an S -- and you'd save yourself about $5k (or more) in the process.


What is a MINI Cooper?
I think at this point we all know what a MINI Cooper is, so I'll not bore you with the backstory. However, I will point out that in 1999, the Mini was voted the second most influential vehicle of the 20th century behind the Ford Model T, voted in by the Global Automotive Elections Foundation (a jury of 126 auto experts from 32 countries).

While that particular Mini is rather far removed from the MINI we see on the streets today, the soul of what the MINI is all about is still very much there.

2014 MINI Cooper Price and Specs
There's no denying that, yes, you do pay a premium to drive around with the MINI badge on the front of your hot little hatch. Like designer pumps, sure there are alternatives for less money, but there's a certain level of quality, pride, and user experience that comes with owning the real deal. That being said, the base price of the MINI Cooper really isn't that bad, sitting just over $20k.

As it was, with a $2,100 Loaded Package (Sport Seats, auto climate control, Comfort Access, etc.) as well as a few other stand-alone options (bonnet stripes, metallic paint and Dynamic Damper Control), my tester's total tallied $24,470. At that price, I was tempted to head to the dealer immediately.

At this price, you get MINI's brand new 3-cylinder mill that's turbocharged and good for 134 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Control can be had via a 6-speed automatic (meh) or a 6-speed manual (there is no alternative). Power is pushed out the front wheels, always.

Of note, after an approximate 500km road trip in the Cooper, I used just under ¾ of a tank of gas and was averaging 7.1L/100km -- that's better than the Nissan Micra's posted average of 7.7L/100km...

Driving the 2014 MINI Cooper
Here's why I wouldn't spring for the Cooper S: this new base Cooper is equally as precise, tight and eager, and willing to play; there's no need for more grunt or pull. It's got attitude, too.

Some might find the 3-cyl clatter of the engine a bit aggravating, but I love it. Like a little dachshund growling under its breath to show you it may be wee but it means business, the Cooper musters up a growl to go with its bite. There's even a bit of an exhaust burble out the back, which only adds to the hot hatch's mischievous attitude.

Rowing through the 2014 MINI Cooper's gears is a joy (if you forget that it will, like the Cooper S, rev-match automatically for you during downshifts), as revs build and foot-play between brake and throttle is second-nature. Steering is as precise as the gear shifts, as the MINI happily settles into whatever line you put it on. Torque-steer is nearly non-existent in this new MINI, something that always annoyed me in the past with the Cooper.

This truly is the best base Cooper to drive so far.

Inside and Out of the 2014 MINI Cooper
If you've had a look at my 2014 MINI Cooper S review you'll know how I feel about the new exterior, so I won't drag on about all that again, but I will take a moment to discuss the interior of the base Cooper.

So, it doesn't have a screen in the middle or nav, but you know what? It's still plenty luxurious. With heated seats, auto climate control, as well as an easy-to-read digital screen that's blissfully visible in bright sunlight, as well as USB and AUX outlets and steering-wheel mounted buttons, there's more than enough going on in this base model.

Backseat space is sufficient. Larger adults may feel slightly claustrophobic, but my son's child seat fit quite well (once I squeezed it in the back over the front seats that don't really go forward enough). And front seat passengers never complained of a lack of legroom, even with my son riding in the back.

Comparing the 2014 MINI Cooper
Now that the Cooper sports a nifty little Twin-Scroll Turbo, in my mind it automatically stands out amongst the likes of the Ford Focus or Hyundai Veloster. In its current state, I'd say the MINI Cooper will garner a new cult of loyal followers and drivers, as well as keep MINI lovers coming back for more.

From GMM

Daniel Ricciardo will definitely still be at the wheel of a Red Bull in 2015, according to Germany's Sport Bild.

Correspondents Ralf Bach and Bianca Garloff claim an option on the impressive team newcomer's contract was taken up by the world champion team in Canada.

Daniel Ricciardo, 24, went on to his first career victory in Montreal, and the 2015 deal could be announced at Red Bull's home race in Austria next weekend, Sport Bild said.

According to the Australian Financial Review, the Perth-born driver has already hit the big time.

The publication estimated Ricciardo's base salary at $3.65 million this year, with a victory bonus of between $1m and $2m per win.

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

Bach and Garloff also claim that Red Bull's "long-term goal" is to keep Ricciardo alongside reigning quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel until at least 2018.

That plan, however, could hit a snag.

German Vettel is struggling at the wheel of the RB10 this year, with Dr Helmut Marko admitting that, after four consecutive title triumphs, staring at the rear wings of the ultra-dominant Mercedes cars is "not exactly motivating".

Sebastian Vettel's frustration began to show in Canada.

German reports quote him as saying after finishing the Canadian grand prix third: "I'm sorry to say it, but our cucumber simply doesn't go anywhere on the straights."

He also seemed to criticise Red Bull's strategy plan on Sunday, after he got stuck behind the Mercedes-powered Force India of Nico Hulkenberg in Canada.

"I was waiting for some smart strategic move on the part of the team, but it never came," said Vettel.

Sebastian Vettel may also be alarmed with the impending semi-retirement of Red Bull's genius technical chief Adrian Newey.

When asked about Newey's plans, Vettel referred to his existing contract before adding: "I'm looking short-term, if you ask me about the future right now."

Adrian Newey reportedly tried to ease Vettel's fears, telling Auto Bild Motorsport: "If my colleagues need advice and help, I will always be there for them. Sebastian as well.

"He is not losing me."

The two Red Bull drivers on the Canadian podium. (Photo: WRi2)

Marko excused Vettel for any signs of mounting frustration, including the description of the RB10 as a "cucumber".

"If we do not give Seb a car capable of winning, we cannot be angry with him for being disappointed," he told Bild newspaper.

Undoubtedly, just as Red Bull was keen to keep Newey out of the clutches of high-paying rivals, the team may also be making plans to keep its multiple champion.

Auto Bild Motorsport said one 'project' of the forthcoming Newey-led 'Advanced Technologies Centre' could be a bespoke F1 engine, perhaps involving the well-known former Mercedes designer Mario Illien.

"It would not be the worst idea," Adrian Newey is quoted as saying.

Montreal, QC -- The electric vehicle trend is far more than a trend. It is, without a doubt, the future today.

The Soul EV is Kia's spunky way to showcase its electric-knowhow in a package that is as original, and as fly as it is packed with technology and features. The Soul EV drives as most EVs do, but this vehicle's design, both inside and out, make special.


What is a Kia Soul EV?
The Soul is Kia's quirky alternative to the crossover-cum-family car. Its reason for being comes from its original shape and styling with a twist while maintaining practicality and utility.

So, it makes sense that Kia's first EV is set on this platform. The combination of original design and new (for Kia) technology makes for a good showcase. The revised-for-2014 Soul has matured over the original car without losing its off-the-wall character.

2015 Kia Soul EV Price and Specs
Pricing for the 2015 Kia Soul EV is not yet set. Kia reps expect the information will be announced and made official later this summer, before it's arrival in the fourth quarter of 2014. My guess is that the pre-incentive retail will hover in the $31,000 to $33,000 range or roughly $4,000 to $6,000 more than the top-trim SX Luxury.

Kia's Soul EV houses a 360-volt 192-cell lithium-ion polymer battery that yields 27kWh and should be good for a range of approximately 160km. According to Kia reps and their press release, in internal testing, a range in excess of 200km was proven possible. Real world conditions are likely to negatively affect these projections, however, they are currently within the “norm.”

The liquid-cooled AC synchronous permanent magnet motor generates 81.4 kW or the equivalent of 109 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. The FWD Soul EV will travel to 100km/h in 11.4 seconds, on its way to a limited top speed of 145km/h.

Driving the 2015 Kia Soul EV
Each and every time I get behind the wheel of an electric car, I find myself enthralled with the experience. Although I've driven and evaluated nearly a dozen different EVs over that last few years, the impressive efficacy of the electric drivetrain always surprises me.

The 2015 Kia Soul EV is no different. A simple tug on the shift-lever into “D” and no-compromise electric motoring is at hand.

As with all EVs, loads of torque are on tap from naught; a dab too much throttle will overwhelm the Nexen low-rolling resistance tires despite traction control. In town, the Soul's power is more than sufficient for overtaking slower traffic. Steering effort is well judged and the braking system is one of the better ones I've had the pleasure of testing.

As you may or may not know, hybrids and EVs utilize regenerative braking to capture kinetic energy to help maximize efficiency and range. At no time was braking intrusive or unpleasant as it can be in other cars. In fact, I've become an avid user of regen braking, regularly utilizing “B” mode with the shifter to increase its effect.

Acceleration is sporting up to about 80km/h. Throttle response is fairly immediate but as speed increases, a rubbery effect develops in the pedal that does not encourage highway passing manoeuvres unless already carrying sufficient speed. The smart fortwo electric drive is much the same, as is the Nissan LEAF. The Tesla Model S is not...

Electric vehicles are quiet by definition. Kia's desire to reinforce this is found in the fact that they've added special soundproofing materials to the vehicle. As well, additional cross bracing and the positioning of the batteries beneath the floor improve torsional rigidity and overall refinement. This also has an effect on handling which are equal parts comfortable and sporty, limited mostly by its tires' ability to grip.

Inside and Out of the 2015 Kia Soul EV
If the Kia Soul's exterior was a breath of fresh air (to some) pre-EV transformation, this version is borderline space-age-meets-Japanese-animation. Of the three colour combinations (Pearl White with metallic Sky Blue roof/mirrors, Electric Blue with Polar White roof/mirrors, and Sterling Silver with Polar White roof/mirrors), the one in the pictures is the most striking.

Other than the paint schemes, the Soul EV distinguishes itself by its unique white-faced 16” alloy wheels and covered front grille where the dual charging ports are hiding via a clever opening panel.

The Soul EV sacrifices little onboard in the conversion, which is remarkable given that this electric Kia was not designed specifically as an EV, unlike the Nissan LEAF. The only compromise made in the making of the Soul EV over the gas-powered version is in rear legroom that was cut by roughly 50mm -- and is barely noticeable. The trunk is unfazed.

The level of kit is more than complete in the 2015 Kia Soul EV, which explains in part what should be a hefty premium. Heated and vented front seats, a heated steering wheel, navigation, heated rear seats, and rearview camera are only some of the accessories included with this vehicle.

Day-to-day functionality is well sorted thanks to the Soul's good ergonomics and user-friendly HMI. The touchscreen features a complete EV monitoring mode that is accessed simply by pressing the “EV” button.

Comparing the 2015 Kia Soul EV
When the 2015 Kia Soul EV arrives, it will face off with the Nissan LEAF, Ford Focus EV, smart fortwo electric drive, and Chevrolet Volt. As time moves forwards, new full-EV entries will arrive, likely the Volkswagen e-Golf to name only one.

As interesting as the Soul is, it doesn't stand out as being the best of the best. More wheel time would help the selection process. As it stands, I remain a big fan of the LEAF.

The Canadian Grand Prix saw improvements relating to various aspects of the Ferrari F14 T, but it did not deliver the results Scuderia Ferrari was hoping for.

“We knew this would not be an easy race, because on this track, we were not fast enough down the straights and we had some problems in the slow corners,” said Kimi Raikkonen wjo qualifying and finished 10th.

“On top of that, I never had a clear track ahead of me, for one reason or another I was always stuck behind other cars. In the beginning I had some problems with the brakes and the handling of my car wasn't consistent. Even if at the moment, nothing seems to be going right for us, the new development package has given us more potential and now we must just try and find more consistency,” the Finn explained.

Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari F14 T, Montreal. (Photo: René Fagnan)

“In the final stint, the group ahead closed up and our pace was very good with Fernand (Alonso), but it was almost impossible to overtake,” Ferrari's technical director, Pat Fry explained.

“We brought some improvements to the F14 T and even though this track did not produce the results we expected, we will continue to work on the development of the car and on this front our approach will not change for the coming races.”

Team Principal Marco Mattiacci was not happy at all with the performance of the red cars in Montreal.

“We are very angry with ourselves, but we have no intention of giving up,” he said.

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

“Kimi and Fernando know how to work as a team to point us in the direction of the areas that are a priority in our development program. Some updates produced good results on track and that's why we will continue down this path race by race,” he explained.

“There is a clearly defined development programme that we are working through and which will see us bring updates to every race. Another major target is to speed up our reaction time, which is something our competitors seem to manage to do”.

That dashing rogue Elon Musk, who gathers superlatives like most men gather heart palpitations, has decided that this whole Tesla/SpaceX endeavor he oversees could be combined, really.

A planned protest at General Motors headquarters by family members of crash victims will serve as the backdrop Tuesday to an annual meeting of GM shareholders here that should prove more substantive than the mundane proceedings of past years.

Bill Hoglund, a retired GM executive and close confidant of former Chairman and CEO Jack Smith, died over the weekend. He was 79.

The annual and#8220;Get Your Heart Racingand#8221; fund-raiser returns to Detroit's Eastern Market on Sept. 12-13 with Ford as the lead sponsor. In its first three years, the event raised $1.

Local Motors, a crowd-sourced car manufacturer, and maker of the beastly

Lawsuits against General Motors over economic damages allegedly caused by a recent recall for faulty ignition switches will be heard in Manhattan, a federal judicial panel has ruled.

Sales of new cars and light commercial vehicles in Russia dropped by 12% compared with May 2013 or by 28,019 sold units and amounted to only 201,487 cars, according to the AEB Automobile Manufacturers Committee (AEB AMC).

Russia's largest carmaker, AvtoVAZ, said on Friday it expects to cut 13,000 staff - more than previously indicated - at its Togliatti plant due to falling sales of its flagship Lada.

In the pantheon of Mercedes-Benz tuning houses and coachbuilders,

Continental has opened a new facility at the company's Russian production site in Kaluga

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Suzuki has updated the Swift range, adding more kit as standard and refreshing engine options

The United States Postal Service often uses its stamps as canvases -- little, tiny canvases -- upon which our national triumphs both past and present are celebrated. From time to time cars show up. Recently, it was

Lotus revealed the high-performance Exige LF1 on Monday, featuring Lotus F1 team livery and interior trim.

It's almost a foregone conclusion that the

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Lotus reveals special-edition LF1 based on the Exige S and inspired by the brand’s Formula One heritage

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