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Toyota remained the world's biggest automaker, selling 9.98 million vehicles last year, as the Japanese company nearly became the first carmaker to sell more than 10 million units in a single year.

Toyota kept its crown as the world's biggest automaker, selling 9.98 million vehicles last year, as the Japanese juggernaut teetered at edge of becoming the first carmaker to sell more than 10 million units in a single year.

British car production reached its highest level since 2007 last year, buoyed by strong domestic demand and exports outside the EU. Nissan built the most cars in Britain, followed by Jaguar Land Rover and Toyota.

Our comprehensive annual guide to purchasing executives offers a helpful list of the people making the key procurement decisions at global automakers and suppliers.

Lincoln's oldest remaining nameplate is getting a new look. The re-engineered 2015 Navigator will go into production in late summer and on sale in early fall, providing a bonus for Lincoln dealers hungry for more product.

The Florida Winter Series got underway Wednesday, Jan. 22. This series is designed for young professional racing drivers who want to be as well prepared as possible for the 2014 racing season.

The first two test sessions were held on Miami-Homestead's road course, home of the first two races. The 11 participants got to grips with their Tatuus FA10Bs, a relatively basic, spec single seater.

In the morning session, Canadian Nicholas Latifi set the fastest time. Another Canadian Lance Stroll, member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, ranked sixth.

After the lunch break, Latifi was again quickest in front of Raffaele Marciello. Stroll was 8th fastest, one place behind Max Verstappen, son of former F1 driver, Jos Verstappen.

German car manufacturer, Audi shuffled its lineups in preparation for the 2014 season of the DTM.

In 101 days, the new DTM season will start at the Hockenheimring and the Audi driver teams have now been confirmed.

Timo Scheider and Mike Rockenfeller, Audi 2013 (Photo: Audi)

“Audi has always been committed to continuity with the drivers, as well as to a consistent approach of working with young talents,” said Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich.

“That's why it's nice that we managed to retain all of our previous DTM drivers for Audi - including our three DTM Champions. In Nico Müller we've got a promising youngster as a new member of our squad, who will probably attract a few fans from Switzerland to the DTM. Plus, we're already very eager to see how Timo (Scheider), Edoardo (Mortara), Miguel (Molina) and Jamie (Green) will be gelling with their new teams,” he added.

Audi Sport Team Phoenix
Mike Rockenfeller (reigning DTM champion)
Timo Scheider (moves from Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline)

Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline
Miguel Molina (moves from Audi Sport Team Phoenix)
Edoardo Mortara (moves from Audi Sport Team Rosberg)
Mattias Ekström
Adrien Tambay

Audi Sport Team Rosberg
Jamie Green (moves from Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline)
Nico Müller (new to DTM)

VIA Motors last week announced that it has received an $80 million purchase agreement from Sun Country Highway to electrify Best Western hotels and other business as part of a transcontinental electrification project. A total of 1,000 extended-range EVs and more than 100 charging stations will be deployed.

The Best Western Seven Oaks in Regina will be the first Best Western hotel to offer electric shuttle van services in North America.

VIA's VTRUX provides a range of approximately 65 kilometres in fully electric mode, while its solar-powered generator ensures unlimited extended range.

Source : viamotors.com

Pros: The 2014 Volvo S80 proves supremely comfortable both in terms of seating and ride quality. The interior is remarkably quiet and upscale, while power delivery is always smooth. Add top-notch safety and reliability, and you get an extremely relaxing driving experience.

Cons: The S80's design is getting pretty old now, with the last major revision dating back to 2007. Inside, the layout is bit too simplistic. Also, expect the S80 to lose much of its original value after a few years. This car is in desperate need of a do-over.


2014 Volvo S80 Price: There are 6 trim levels to choose from this year, ranging from the base 3.2 FWD at $48,300 all the way to the luxurious and powerful T6 AWD Platinum at $60,400.

2014 Volvo S80 Fuel Economy: A 3.2 FWD model will burn 10.5L/100km in the city and 6.8L/100km on the highway. These numbers will increase to 11.7 and 8.0L/100km, respectively, with a T6 AWD model.

Improvements and Changes: Beyond a few cosmetic upgrades, the 2014 Volvo S80 gets a new Sensus communication interface, a 7'' display with infrared activation, a heated windshield and steering wheel, a customizable TFT gauge cluster, revised transmission ratios, new ambient lighting, as well as a new pedestrian and cyclist detection feature for the frontal collision mitigation system.

2014 Volvo S80 Powertrain: Volvo offers two inline 6-cylinder engines with the S80. The naturally aspirated 3.2L unit produces 240 horsepower, while the turbocharged 3.0L variant generates 300 horsepower. Both are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.

Cargo Capacity: The S80's trunk will swallow up to 422 litres of cargo, which is a fairly good amount, but not as much as many competitors offer.

Safety: Volvo enjoys a stellar reputation for safety, and it shows in the 2014 S80, which includes ABS, brake assist, stability and traction control, adaptive cruise control, adaptive lighting (headlights that swivel in corners), pedestrian and cyclist detection, distance alert, driver drowsiness alert, lane departure warning, and collision warning with full auto brake. Some of these features are optional, mind you.

Comparing the 2014 Volvo S80: In this luxury sedan segment, you'll also find the Acura RLX, Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti Q70, Jaguar XF, Lexus GS, Lincoln MKS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Photo: Volvo

Ford's luxury division today unveiled its all-new 2015 Lincoln Navigator. The model will officially make its global debut in a few weeks at the Chicago Auto Show.

The third-generation Navigator (first one came in 2007) will use a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 rated at 370 horsepower to replace the outgoing 310-horsepower 5.4L V8.

The 2015 Lincoln Navigator will come in standard-wheelbase (207.4'') and long-wheelbase (222.3'') configurations, ride on 20'' wheels (optional 22'' wheels), and feature modern technologies such as the latest-generation MyLincoln Touch and SYNC, a 4.2'' LCD monitor on the dashboard, and a rearview camera.

Look for the 2015 Lincoln Navigator to arrive in showrooms this fall.

Source : motorauthority.com

Photo: Lincoln

Photo: Lincoln

Young Canadian race car driver, Mikael Grenier, is still in talks with KV Racing about driving one of their Dallara DW12s in this year's IndyCar series.

Grenier, who raced karts, Formula Star Mazdas and Indy Lights in the past, got a test with KV Racing back in November on the Sebring road course in Florida.

“The test went very well, and I got along really well with the team members,” Grenier told Auto123.com on Wednesday. “Since that day, we've been working hard to put together a program that would see me drive the second car of the team this season. KV Racing has some sponsors that cover part of the budget. I don't have to find the entire budget, but only part of it.”

Mikael Grenier driving KV Racing's Indy car. (Photo: Vanessa DC)

“We are currently in contact with several potential sponsors, but finding money is never easy. I expect to hear back from them within a week and a half,” he continued. “Our goal is to drive the team's second car. However, there's still the possibility of driving the third car. KV Racing has fielded three cars in the past such as when Rubens Barrichello drove for them two years ago.”

The young man from Stoneham, Quebec also mentioned a third option.

“If I only find a certain amount of sponsorship money, I could participate in specific races in 2014,” Grenier explained. “I could do a little more testing and run, for example, just the road course races. But nothing has been decided yet and we're still talking.”

Mikael Grenier (Photo: Vanessa DC)

From GMM

The mandatory minimum weight of F1 cars will be raised by 1 kilogram for 2014, Italy's Omnicorse reports.

That is because Pirelli, having controversially grappled with failures throughout last season, has advised that their new tyres need more reinforcing kevlar to cope with the higher torque of this year's new turbo V6 engines.

The report tipped the rule tweak, raising the minimum weight to 691kg, to be promptly ratified by the World Motor Sport Council.

Omnicorse also claims that Caterham has followed McLaren and Ferrari's lead in designing its 2014 car around innovative pull-rod front suspension.

Photo: WRi2

Certain cars give off auras from the workman to the diva, there's a car that'll match it perfectly. When one thinks “executive” there are few cars that fit that description better than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Regal and elegant, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC isn't just a beauty to behold, it's also a blast to drive, and comfortable no matter which seat you choose. Roomy, loaded to the gills with techy kit and powerful, Mercedes has a winner in the E 550.


What is the Mercedes-Benz E 550?
For starters, the E-Class is Merc's line of “executive” vehicles, hence the businesslike approach to its design and drive. The very first of the current line of midsize Mercedes-Benz E-Class cars made its way to North America in the early 90s, while the vehicle itself was on the roads under a different nomenclature since the mid-80s.

Specifically, the Mercedes-Benz E 550 is the middle-of-the-pack E-Class in the lineup. Offering plenty of power and luxurious amenities, the E 550 may be considered the ideal combination of both a comfortable tourer and sporty ride.

2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC Price and Specs
As mentioned above, the Mercedes-Benz E 550 is the midrange E-Class sedan on offer from the German automaker. The baby (and cheapest) in the E stable is the E 250 BlueTEC starting at $57,800. However, we're not here to talk about any other model save for the 550, so let's focus on that particular sedan.

With a base price of $75,600, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC is on the higher price side compared to its other German rival; however, it features a fabulous 32V Bi-turbo V8 good for 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Power is controlled via Merc's 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. Zero to 100km/hr passes in just 4.8 seconds, and yet you've got a large back seat and sizable trunk, as well.

For starters, the E-Class is Merc's line of “executive” vehicles, hence the businesslike approach to its design and drive. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

Driving the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC
I thoroughly enjoyed every minute behind the wheel of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC. As refined as it was rough (when asked to be), the E 550 really is out to please. Like the best-trained Labrador in the pack, this puppy is programmed to please.

Gearshifts are nearly seamless thanks to the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission, and when toggled into “S” (sport), revs are held longer, downshifts are spot on, and it seems almost as if the E 550 is thinking two or three steps ahead of you. I love that, especially with an automatic transmission.

Handling in the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC is perfect, with great feedback from the steering wheel and a good deal of connection to the wheels. Merc's DIRECT CONROL suspension helps keep the ride both smooth and connected to the road. Cornering proves how stable the E 550 can really be, since this is a fairly large sedan, with limited body roll and a great deal of control -- even at speed.

My only gripe about driving the Merc E 550 was the bloody driver's seat. And I know it can be turned off and/or adjusted, but I'm not really sure why it's even there. It's an “interactive” seat where the bolstering squeezes you on either side, depending on which direction you're cornering in and how hard you're taking the corner. A “neat” feature at first, it becomes highly aggravating. A well-proportioned, tight-fitting bolstered seat is enough Mercedes. No need to go further, seriously.

As refined as it was rough (when asked to be), the E 550 really is out to please. Like the best-trained Labrador in the pack, this puppy is programmed to please. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

Inside and Out of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC
This is one seriously good looking car. It's masculine with a touch of feline prowess in the new headlights. Dual LED daytime running lights add a level of sophistication that's immediately present on the road to those around you. The new front bumper is also much more aggressive with large gaping gills under each headlight that may frighten smaller cars into thinking they'll be gobbled up. There really isn't a bad angle to view the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC sedan from.

Inside, the good continues. The middle console is designed in typical Mercedes-Benz fashion, and the centre-mounted knob near the handbrake remains, as does the column shifter to engage drive, park, reverse, etc. While that takes a little getting used to, it is undoubtedly a trait Mercedes wants to keep as their own and I commend them for using it across most of their line of products.

Despite my seat constantly trying to crush my poor kidneys upon each turn of the wheel, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC sedan does offer up a very comfortable driver's position with very good visibility. And room in the back is plentiful, even with a baby seat installed.

The middle console is designed in typical Mercedes-Benz fashion, and the centre-mounted knob near the handbrake remains, as does the column shifter to engage drive, park, reverse, etc. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

Comparing the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E 550 4MATIC
The Merc's closest competition resides in its close German rivals, the BMW 550i and the Audi A6 3.0T. If you're in the market for a car of this nature, I think it really comes down to brand loyalty and personal choice, since each has so much good to offer you wouldn't be making a bad decision either way.

From press release

Team Williams released today the first images of its 2014 challenger.

"There's a lot more technology on the cars this year," says Williams Chief Technical Officer Pat Symonds. "We've had turbo-charged engines in F1 before; what's different this time is that it is much more than just an engine change, it is a completely different system. We've gone from a slightly hybridised normally aspirated engine to a fully integrated hybrid power unit with novel technology at its heart."

Photo: Williams F1 Team

The design phase of the FW36 was completed by mid-September, by which time the team had found solutions to the major challenges presented by the regulations. Cooling, weight, a new gearbox and aerodynamic changes are just some of the areas of focus.

"Overall the cars will need more cooling this year," says Symonds. "The demands on water and oil cooling may be slightly diminished, but the ERS system is significantly more powerful and hence needs more cooling. We also have to cool the charge air from the turbocharger compressor which requires a substantial intercooler."



To meet the challenges of the new power unit, Williams signed the deal with Mercedes Benz High Performance Powertrains midway through last season. The team received the first CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data for the power unit at the end of May, at which point the detailed design of the FW36 could begin to be finalised.

"This is the first time that Williams has worked with Mercedes in F1 and we've been very impressed," says Symonds. "Their professionalism and commitment have been notable and we're as confident as we can be that the power unit will be competitive."


Photo: Williams F1 Team

"F1 is still going to be an aerodynamic formula in 2014," says Symonds. "There are some significant changes: the nose is lower than last year and the front wing is narrower, which means the end plates are now more shrouded by the front tyre. The rear wing isn't as deep as last year and the beam wing below it is no longer permitted, and we've also lost the ability to use the exhaust to enhance aero performance."

"I'm confident that we'll be closer to the front aerodynamically than we were last year," says Symonds. "Our ambition for the year ahead is to have a strong 2014 season."

Pros: Completely redesigned last year, the 2014 Ford Fusion continues to impress with a very classy and elegant design, numerous cutting-edge technologies, a spacious and quiet interior, dynamic handling (with available all-wheel drive), and fuel-efficient powerplants.

Cons: One of the Fusion's strengths is also a weakness. The MyFord Touch interface is prone to glitches, and many drivers feel frustrated with its use. Moreover, expect to sacrifice a good deal of trunk space when opting for the hybrid or Energi variant.

2014 Ford Fusion Price: This year, Ford offers 9 distinct trim levels including:

• S ($22,499), SE FWD ($24,599), SE AWD ($29,999), and Titanium ($33,999) for the gasoline-powered Fusion;
• S ($28,699), SE ($29,999), and Titanium ($35,499) for the Fusion Hybrid;
• SE ($38,899) and Titanium ($41,399) for the Fusion Energi (plug-in hybrid).

2014 Ford Fusion Fuel Economy: Ratings for the standard Fusion vary from 8.0-9.5L/100km in the city and 5.3-6.3L/100km on the highway. The Fusion Hybrid obviously fares better (4.0 and 4.1L/100km, respectively), but not as much as the Fusion Energi (1.9L/100km equivalent in the city; 4.5L/100km average).

Improvements and Changes: New colours and options are available with the 2014 Ford Fusion. A third, smaller EcoBoost engine (1.5L) can be specified, too, although official performance figures have not been released at the time of writing.

Powertrain: Ford Fusion buyers have a choice of 5 engines for 2014:

• 2.5L 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine (175 hp, 175 lb-ft);
• 1.5L 4-cylinder, turbocharged EcoBoost engine;
• 1.6L 4-cylinder, turbocharged EcoBoost engine (178 hp, 184 lb-ft);
• 2.0L 4-cylinder, turbocharged EcoBoost engine (240 hp, 270 lb-ft);
• Hybrid system consisting of a 2.0L 4-cylinder, Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor (188 hp, 129 lb-ft total);
• Plug-in hybrid system consisting of a 2.0L 4-cylinder, Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor (188 hp, 129 lb-ft total);

Gasoline models come with a 6-speed automatic transmission (a 6-speed manual is also available with the 1.6L unit), while the Fusion Hybrid and Energi use a CVT. All-wheel drive and paddle shifters are only available with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine.

Photo: Ford

Cargo Capacity: The 2014 Ford Fusion has a big, 453-litre trunk. The Fusion Hybrid and Energi offer much less cargo space (340 and 232 litres, respectively) due to the location of the battery.

Safety: Eight airbags come standard with the 2014 Ford Fusion, along with AdvanceTrac stability control. Most trim levels are available with adaptive cruise control, active park assist, a rear camera, cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.

Comparing the 2014 Ford Fusion: Interested in buying an entry-level midsize sedan like the Fusion? Plenty of alternatives exist out there including the Chevrolet Malibu, Chrysler 200, Dodge Avenger, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Honda Accord, Mazda6, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry, and Volkswagen Passat.

NASCAR officials got it right when then decided to go for knock-out qualifying at most races in its' top three series.

As much as this writer feels skeptical about the unannounced changes to the Chase rules, the knockout rules adopted by NASCAR bring it along the lines of Formula One, IndyCar and a number of other series. IndyCar is slightly different as it divides the field into two sessions for round one.

What it means is that you'll see an exciting intense of two or three sessions with implications for the “big” race.

For example qualifying will be completed in about one-hour. With all of the cars on the track for the first 25 minutes session (at all Sprint Cup races but the Daytona 500). What better way for fans to see who's good that weekend, vis-à-vis other drivers, and television will love it as the show wraps up in around one hour.

Photo: NASCAR

Texas Motor Speedway president, Eddie Gossage, said in a statement “I think fans are going to love this because it basically means another race day to race weekend. Qualifying day is going to be a race in and of itself with speed, a lot of competition and a lot of strategy.”

The other wrinkle is that with 42-drivers on the track in the first knock-out session there will be unintended, as well intended, opportunities for the drivers to assist a rival in being knocked out. We'll have to wait and see what NASCAR does to some driver they view as intentionally causing a wreck.

For years this reporter, and many others, likely had trouble getting excited to watch one car on a big track go out for one slow and two fast laps. I'd bet I could hear and see grass growing during Brickyard 400 qualifying.

The only thing this writer doesn't like and still cares about is that there ought to be a one point bonus for winning the pole. Especially in this instance when a driver has to perform in race-like conditions.

Thinking back to Formula One qualifying, even before the knock out system, I recall how thrilling it was to see the late Ayrton Senna carving through the field like a surgeon doing brain surgery. And, of course , the Brazilian was doing it at high speed.

Obviously oval qualifying is nothing like road course qualifying, but, still - we can hope for moments of shear driving brilliance as Gossage said qualifying is going to be a “a race in and of itself.”

Now if only NASCAR would consider it worth more than a picture, a check , and a pit stall selection it would be close to perfect.

Jimmie Johnson, Chevrolet SS, 2013 Sprint Cup Champion. (Photo: NASCAR)

The Rules:

At tracks measuring 1.25 miles in length or larger, qualifying for the Coors Light Pole Award will consist of three rounds:
• The first qualifying elimination round will be 25 minutes in duration and includes all cars / trucks. The 24 cars / trucks that post the fastest single lap from the first qualifying round will advance to the second round.
• The remaining cars / trucks will be sorted based on their times posted in the first round of qualifying in descending order.
• The second qualifying elimination round will be 10 minutes in duration and the 12 cars / trucks that post the fastest single lap time will advance to the third and final round. The fastest remaining cars / trucks earn positions 13th through 24th based on their times posted in qualifying in descending order.
• The third and final qualifying round will be five minutes in duration and the fastest single lap time will determine positions 1st through 12th in descending order.
• There will be a five-minute break between each qualifying round.

At tracks measuring less than 1.25 miles, qualifying for the Coors Light Pole Award will consist of two rounds:
• The first qualifying elimination round will be 30 minutes in duration and includes all cars / trucks. The 12 cars / trucks that post the fastest single lap time from the first qualifying round will advance to the second and final round.
• The remaining cars / trucks will be sorted based on their times posted in the first round of qualifying in descending order.
• There will be a 10-minute break between the two qualifying rounds.
• The second and final qualifying round will be 10 minutes in duration and the fastest single lap time posted will determine positions 1st through 12th in descending order.

The new qualifying format does not apply to the Daytona 500, which will preserve its historic and unique qualifying format. Additionally, it does not apply to non-points NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events or the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series event at Eldora Speedway.

Pros: Known for its bang-for-your-buck status, the Elantra maintains that motto despite seeing engine upgrades on some versions and a few exterior tweaks for 2014.

Cons: Despite offering a modern and sleek exterior look, some may find the design of the Hyundai Elantra sedan to be dated already.


2014 Hyundai Elantra Price: Pricing for the 2014 Hyundai Elantra sedan starts at just $15,999. With two engines to choose from (1.8L and 2.0L) as well as two transmissions (auto vs. manual), there are quite a few models to choose from. The highest priced 2014 Hyundai Elantra sedan starts at $25,649.

2014 Hyundai Elantra Fuel Economy: As the Sedan receives no engine upgrades, the fuel efficiency numbers remain the same as the outgoing model; 7.1L/100km (city), 5.2L/100km (highway), and a combined reading of 6.2L/100km -- all with the 6-spped manual transmission.

Improvements and Changes: Changes made to the 2014 Hyundai Elantra sedan are minimal. This mid-cycle refresh does, however, ensure new wheel design choices, and LED-trimmed headlights and LED taillights. Inside, sound-deadening material was added in order to improve noise vibration and comfort levels. Slight modifications were made to the gauge cluster, and a new touchscreen was added on high-trim level Hyundai Elantras.

Powertrain: The 2014 Hyundai Elantra Sedan sees no powertrain changes from the previous model and is still the 1.8L D-CVVT 16-valve good for 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque. And transmission choices remain either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic SHIFTRONIC with Manual Shift Mode.

Cargo Capacity: Cargo capacity also remains unchanged in the 2014 Hyundai Elantra Sedan, sitting at 420 litres.

Safety: Safety features include six standard airbags, ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist, as well as child-proof rear door locks, and the universal child-seat LATCH system.

Comparing the 2014 Hyundai Elantra Sedan: The Hyundai Elantra Sedan has steep competition in the Honda Civic and Mazda3, as well as the Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla and Nissan Sentra.

Former Formula 1 driver, Russian Vitaly Petrov got his first DTM test in a DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé at the Portimão race track in Portugal on Thursday January 23rd.

The 29-year-old Russian got his first taste of a DTM car last year, when he drove one at the Moscow City Race around Red Square and made his DTM debut at the Moscow Raceway in a Mercedes-Benz DTM racing taxi.

Vitaly Petrov. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

Vitalty Petrov, who raced in Formula 1 with Renault, Lotus and Caterham, scored 64 championship points and climbed on the podium once, finishing third in Australia in 2011.

"Russia is a highly significant market for the DTM and for Mercedes-Benz,” said Toto Wolff, head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport in a press release.

“Following the success of the DTM debut at the Moscow Raceway last year, the interest of Russian fans in the series has grown considerably. Vitaly has been aware of these developments and expressed a desire to test drive our DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé. We were only too happy to make his wish possible."

The Russian round of the DTM will be held at Moscow Raceway, July 13.

Pros: Known for its bang-for-your-buck status, the Elantra maintains that motto despite seeing engine upgrades and a few exterior tweaks for 2014.

Cons: Despite offering a modern and sleek exterior look, some may find the design of the Hyundai Elantra sedan to be dated already.


2014 Hyundai Elantra Price: Pricing for the 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe starts at $18,999 for the 2.0L GDI GL model, and runs up the ladder to a top price of $25,599 for the Elantra Coupe SE. There are a few pricing choices in between (automatic vs. manual). 

2014 Hyundai Elantra Fuel Economy: The 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe's updated engine means new fuel efficiency numbers. The GT's estimated fuel ratings are approximately 9.8L/100km for city driving with the new 2.0L.

Improvements and Changes: Changes made to the 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe are minimal. This mid-cycle refresh does, however, ensure new wheel design choices, and LED-trimmed headlights and LED taillights. Inside, sound-deadening material was added in order to improve noise vibration and comfort levels. Slight modifications were made to the gauge cluster, and a new touchscreen was added on high-trim level Hyundai Elantras.

Powertrain: The 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe gets a boost in engine size and is equipped with a new 2.0L direct-injected inline 4-cylinder. This particular engine means a jump in power to 173 horses and 154 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices remain either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic SHIFTRONIC with Manual Shift Mode.

Cargo Capacity: Cargo capacity also remains unchanged in the 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe, sitting at 420 litres.

Safety: Safety features include six standard airbags, ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist, as well as child-proof rear door locks, and the universal child-seat LATCH system.

Comparing the 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe: The Hyundai Elantra Coupe has steep competition in the Honda Civic and Mazda3, as well as the Ford Focus and Nissan Sentra.

Photo: Hyundai

From press release

Racing dates for the upcoming season have been announced for the Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), the Quick 32 Sportsman Series, and the Pro Bike & Sled Series (PBSS).

Started in 2005, the PMRA has grown into one of the strongest Pro Modified series in this popular class, presenting a solid contingent of teams at some of the best facilities in Eastern Canada and the United States.

The PMRA has become a major player in the Pro Modified ranks, and has produced some of the best racing of this nature in North America with top cars and drivers doing battle on drag strips in Ontario, Michigan, and Maryland.

Along with its annual regular championship, the PMRA has provided fans with performances at major national drag racing venues, and last year at a special Pro Mod shoot-out in Maryland, took both first and second spots against some of the best teams in the Pro Modified world.

For its 10th season, the PMRA will continue in this manner in 2014. A regular season schedule has been released comprised of racing dates, starting in May. The PMRA's two companion series, the Quick 32 Sportsman Series, presented by NAPA Auto Parts, begins its six year of competition, and the PBSS, presented by Wiseco Performance Products, will enter its fourth year of racing.

All three series will kick off their seasons May 16-18 at the Grand Bend Motorplex for the RPM Magazine/Lucas Oil Blowout.

The Pro Modified Racing Association, www.PMRA.ca competes with its two companion series, the Quick 32 Sportsman Series, www.Quick32.ca and the Pro Bike & Sled Series, www.PBSS.ca, travelling and racing together throughout the racing season, offering an exciting and diverse package of drag racing action.

2014 DRAG RACING SERIES SCHEDULE

May 16 - 18:
RPM Magazine / Lucas Oil Spring Blowout
Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), Quick 32 Sportsman Series and Pro Bike & Sled Series (PBSS)
Grand Bend Motorplex - Grand Bend, Ontario
For more information, visit www.grandbendmotorplex.com

May 30 - June 1:
Super Chevy Show
Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), Quick 32 Sportsman Series and Pro Bike & Sled Series (PBSS)
US 131 Motorsports Park - Martin, MI
For more information, visit www.us131msp.com

June 14 - 15:
Quick 32 Sportsman Series and Pro Bike & Sled Series (PBSS) ~ Eighth-mile
Empire Dragway - Leicester, NY
For more information, visit www.nyirp.com

June 20 - 22:
IHRA Nitro Jam Nationals
Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA)
Grand Bend Motorplex - Grand Bend, Ontario
For more information, visit www.grandbendmotorplex.com

July 11 - 13:
Canadian Nitro Nationals
Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), Quick 32 Sportsman Series and Pro Bike & Sled Series (PBSS)
Toronto Motorsports Park - Cayuga, Ontario
For more information, visit www.torontomotorsportspark.com

August 8 - 10:
20th Annual Stratford Spectacular Hot August Nationals
Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), Quick 32 Sportsman Series and Pro Bike & Sled Series (PBSS)
Grand Bend Motorplex - Grand Bend, Ontario
For more information, visit www.grandbendmotorplex.com

August 29 - 31:
"Thunder by the Beach" Weekend
Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA), Quick 32 Sportsman Series and Pro Bike & Sled Series (PBSS)
Grand Bend Motorplex - Grand Bend, Ontario
For more information, visit www.grandbendmotorplex.com
Rain Date: Monday, September 1

September 26 - 27:
International Pro Mod Challenge at the SuperChargers Showdown
Canada vs. USA ~ Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA) vs. Northeast Outlaw Pro Mod Association
Pro Modified Racing Association (PMRA)
Maryland International Raceway, Mechanicsville, MD
For more information, visit www.mirdrag.com
Rain Date: Sunday, September 28