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WASHINGTON, D.C. - We found ourselves deep in the heart of fox-hunting country, where every fence line featured wooden coops just begging to be leaped over, and it was easy to imagine the baying of hounds echoing over rolling hills resplendent in their fall colours.

Our route encompassed the urban heart of Washington, where the country's most powerful do business, and the rural acreages in which they live.

The ">2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG 4Matic we drove might turn heads anywhere else, but here it was accepted as a matter of course.


What is the 2014 Mercedes Benz CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC?
The CLA 45 AMG is the performance version of the CLA compact sedan.

For the first time in its 45-year history, the AMG performance arm of Mercedes-Benz -- known for their bellowing 8-cylinder engines -- has produced a vehicle powered by a turbocharged 4-cylinder. Not only that, but the 2014 CLA 45 AMG represents another radical departure for this venerable marque: It rides on a front-biased platform and features all-wheel drive.

AMG Chairman, Ola Källenius, describes the car as a "gateway to Gen Y," designed to attract younger folks who, until now, were unable to afford AMG.

The CLA 45 AMG is the performance version of the CLA compact sedan. (Photo: Lesley Wimbush)

2014 Mercedes Benz CLA 45 AMG 4MATIC Prices and Specs
Some AMG fans may recoil in horror at the introduction of a compact 4-cylinder into the lineup. From the handbuilt 2.0L engine is somehow squeezed the highest output of any turbocharged production four-pot in the world: 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. That's 147 horsepower over the regular CLA. That prodigious torque, available from 2,250 rpm, and turbo-boost that's been cranked up to an astonishing 26 psi produce an immediate responsiveness that's virtually turbo-lag free.

Pricing starts at $49,800 for the CLA 45 AMG. There's an available Premium Package ($3,000) which adds rear-view camera, electronic companies, auto-dimming mirrors, sunroof, power-folding mirrors, dual-zone climate control, Passive Blind Spot Assist and Passive Lane Keeping Assist.

Some AMG fans may recoil in horror at the introduction of a compact 4-cylinder into the lineup. From the handbuilt 2.0L engine is somehow squeezed the highest output of any turbocharged production four-pot in the world: 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Lesley Wimbush)

Driving the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG 4Matic
The CLA 45's compact size is perfectly suited to the pastoral roads of Virginia, and the thriving bustle of Washington's core. The lively chassis makes this one of the more nimble and fun-to-drive models in the AMG lineup. Fitted with the lower and stiffer AMG performance suspension (which has 20% stiffer front springs and 22% stiffer rear springs) our tester was a delight to toss around the curves.

The seats are comfortable and provide plenty of legroom up front, but the swooping roofline compromises rear headroom. The 2014 Merc CLA 45 is very quiet, with not much wind noise or road noise, and very little of the raspy exhaust note intrudes into the cabin.

On the centre console, the driver-selectable mode button toggles between Comfort, Sport or Manual. The first, and more sedate, option not only returns better fuel economy, but also shows consideration for the neighbours by keeping the exhaust note in check. The other two settings open the exhaust flap unleashing a guttural pop and snarl, and add snap to the 7-speed dual-clutch AMG transmission.

While more compliant in Comfort mode, the ride is still taut with little body roll. Switch it over to Sport, and the 2014 CLA 45 eats up the twisty forest roads. If the 45 AMG doesn't bellow like its 8-cylinder counterparts, the 4-cylinder's pop and burble is still quite satisfying. Paddle shifters can be used in any of the three modes. Only in Manual mode does the gearbox rely on them fully.

While the 45's default mode is as a front-wheel driver, the AWD kicks in at the first sign of slippage. Normally, this will constitute a 50-50 split, but extreme loss of grip (such as on high-speed cornering) can send 100% of the power to the rear. Despite being a front- wheel driver, the 45 shows little tendency to understeer.

The lively chassis makes this one of the more nimble and fun-to-drive models in the AMG lineup. (Photo: Lesley Wimbush)

Inside and Out of the 2014 Mercedes Benz CLA 45 AMG 4Matic
The 45 AMG is a more aggressively turned-out version of the regular CLA. The CLA 45's swooping lines are transformed by side skirts and a more aggressive front fascia featuring the twin-blade grill of the halo-car, gullwing SLS AMG. Large, gaping intakes add ferocity, and the rear fascia frames twin tailpipes. The sloping roofline gives this four-door sedan the sporty look of a coupe.

The cabin is also a cut above the regular CLA. More aggressively bolstered front seats are "Artico" leather-upholstered and provide more lateral support when cornering. The flat-bottomed sport steering wheel is leather, wrapped with Nappa suede grips, and features 12 multifunction switches.

Ambient lighting, stainless steel foot pedals and door sills, brushed aluminum trim, and contrasting red stitching are all standard 45 AMG features.

Optional AMG upgrades include carbon-fibre trim, performance seats, and the aforementioned red callipers and larger wheels. There's also an AMG performance suspension and exhaust package for those who, in Källenius's words, "want to get really crazy."

The cabin is also a cut above the regular CLA. (Photo: Mercedes-Benz)

Comparing the 2014 Mercedes Benz CLA 45 AMG 4Matic
Competitors include the Audi S3 (coming to Canada in 2014). The S3 also offers AWD, but with 296 hp/280 lb-ft of torque -- less power than the CLA 45 AMG, which is actually a foot longer. The CLA 45 is also longer and lighter than the BMW 135i, which is RWD.

A rather forgiving car, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG is well-positioned as a conquest vehicle for AMG.

From GMM

Daniil Kvyat secured the Toro Rosso seat for 2014 because his results were simply better than his opponents.

That is the claim of the Faenza based team's boss Franz Tost, despite earlier saying the 19-year-old Russian was too young and inexperienced to replace the Red Bull-bound Daniel Ricciardo.

It has been claimed Kvyat, a GP3 and F3 driver, beat the older and more experienced Antonio Felix da Costa, and also Carlos Sainz jr, to the seat because he is reported to be bringing some Russian rubles to the team.

And his drive has also been linked with the fact Russia's inaugural grand prix is taking place next year.

Daniil Kvyat, Toro Rosso. (Photo: WRi2)

But when asked to explain why Kvyat got the seat, and not da Costa or Sainz, Tost told Speed Week: "The results.

"Kvyat impressed us with his strong performance in both the FIA European F3 championship and the GP3 series," he said.

"Da Costa did not show this consistency," Tost explained. "He (da Costa) finished third in the Renault 3.5 series.

"Kvyat," he continued, "is currently second overall in GP3, only seven points behind and fighting for the title with (Facu) Regalia.

"Sainz is ninth with 66 points," added Franz Tost.

From GMM

India looks set to bow out of formula one amid a flood of bad press, as it emerges McLaren mechanics have been armed with mosquito repellent to get them through this weekend's unloved grand prix.

Although provisionally scheduled to return in 2015, the country is falling off the F1 calendar for now after this weekend's race near New Delhi.

Autosprint correspondent Alberto Antonini introduced his coverage of the 2013 edition by referring to slums and local indifference, and reports of tax, customs and financial problems.

"We have missed an opportunity," Sauber team boss Monisha Kaltenborn, an Austrian who was born in Dehradun, is quoted as saying.

"We have not been able to sell F1 well enough in these parts," she admitted.

Photo: Buddh International Circuit

Antonini said the poor locals cannot afford to buy tickets, while the race is "a nightmare" for teams, weighed down by customs issues, chaotic traffic and fears of dengue fever.

McLaren is sponsored by Hilton, and so the mechanics are staying at the hotel that is plagued by disease-carrying mosquitoes, while the drivers and team boss Martin Whitmarsh are at the safer Jaypee Greens.

"The Hilton is really nice and the people are friendly and helpful," Jenson Button's manager Richard Goddard told the Daily Mail. "But perhaps as the hotel is new, there has not been enough allowance made for the amount of mosquitoes in the area."

McLaren spokesman Matt Bishop said staff have been issued with "powerful mosquito repellent spray".

Sebastian Vettel will almost certainly wrap up his 2013 title in India, but his girlfriend and parents are staying away.

"India is a bit far away to visit for only one race," his father Norbert told the Kolner Express newspaper.

Bild newspaper said Vettel is taking all precautious to ensure his safety in India, refraining from putting ice in his drinks and eating local fruit and salads.

"To kill germs, he gargles with high-proof whiskey," the report revealed, adding that Mercedes' Nico Rosberg "dodged a cow" on a highway on Wednesday.

"Nothing unusual," the German driver Tweeted. Monisha Kaltenborn, however, thinks Rosberg has dodged his last farm animal.

She is quoted by Spain's AS newspaper: "I think that once a country leaves (the calendar) it is very difficult to come back again, especially when we have not been able to establish the sport here."

Fall keeps stretching and filling our days with sunny skies and warm weather, while spring does the same to put a premature end to winter. Amidst all this, however, is a unique mix of climate conditions that significantly affects our daily habits. More than anywhere else in the world, the cold season in Canada poses serious challenges that drivers must deal with.

Once again, the editorial team at Auto123.com presents its annual Winter Guide. Here you'll find advice on everything from winter tires to rustproofing treatments, from emergency kits to cooling system maintenance, not to mention visibility and driving techniques. Our journalists will provide you with useful tips and information, whether you drive a regular vehicle, a convertible, a hybrid, a motorcycle or even an all-electric car.

So winter's coming back, eh? That's cool. Canadians are a tough bunch, defying snowstorms and black ice. Other than orange cones, we fear nothing!


WINTER TIRES

2013 winter tire buying tips	Checking for wear on your winter tires	7 important reasons to add winter tires
How to maintain proper tire pressure	How to rotate your tires properly	What makes a winter tire effective in winter?

WINTER DRIVING

How to travel safely this winter	It's never too soon to prepare for winter	Top features that keep drivers focused
Winter safety tips and advices

MAINTENANCE

Tips to buy a portable shelter	Winter maintenance for maintaining mileage	Car maintenance: rustproofing treatments
Rustproofing: all-in-one guide	Used-car suspension inspection	Common causes of concerning clunks
Ready your 4x4 or AWD system for cold weather	Winter driving: visibility is key	Protect your ride with dealer accessories
Winter accessories for comfort and confidence	Stability systems shine for winter driving

EMERGENCIES

Emergency kit for the cold months of winter

How to boost your car battery

Tackling life-threatening problems on the road

CONVERTIBLES

Winter maintenance for your convertible top

ELECTRIC and HYBRID VEHICLES

Battery-powered electric vehicles in winter

MOTORCYCLES

Winter storage tips for your bike

From GMM

Daniel Juncadella has played down reports that said he has a good chance of lining up on the grid for Williams next year.

The Spaniard is racing this year for Grove based Williams' 2014 engine supplier Mercedes in the German touring car series DTM.

And it was rumoured that another link that could pay off for 22-year-old Juncadella, whose uncle is the former HRT boss Luis Perez Sala, is his sponsor deal with the Kazakhstan capital Astana.

TAK Group's Artur Ardavichus said in June: "Astana wants Dani to progress and gain experience with Williams, to prepare him to be a formula one driver with Mercedes."

Daniel Juncadella, Mercedes. (Photo: DTM)

But Juncadella has now told Speed Week that the Williams story was wide of the mark.

"No. A lot was written about Williams in the Spanish media," he said. "It was wrong. If I had EUR 20 million, I could drive in formula one, but that makes no sense to me.

"I want to drive in a championship where my talent and my results are important. That is the case in the DTM," said Juncadella.

"I also want to win races and titles. So while formula one is always the biggest target, in the near future I am only thinking about the DTM," he added.

From GMM

Gerhard Berger thinks Sebastian Vettel is the best driver on the grid today, while Bernie Ecclestone says the German might be F1's all-time great.

If Fernando Alonso fails to finish either first or second in India on Sunday, Red Bull's Vettel will be guaranteed his fourth consecutive drivers' title.

Bild newspaper said the 26-year-old will scoop a EUR 5 million title-winning bonus, while each Red Bull employee will go home with an extra EUR 12,500 in their regular pay.

Berger, who was the team boss at Toro Rosso when Vettel won his first ever grand prix in 2008, thinks the German is now the class of the field.

Gerhard Berger and Sebastian Vettel in Monza 2008. First victory in F1 for the German driver. (Photo: WRi2)

"I have always put Vettel behind Alonso," he told APA news agency, "but I think at the moment Alonso is focused too much on himself, becoming unstable.

"So while he is occupied with himself, Vettel gets one title after the next," added former Ferrari and McLaren driver Berger. "I think Vettel is clearly the best driver in formula one now."

Michael Schumacher agrees that Alonso has done himself no favours recently.

"He put himself on a path of stones," the seven time world champion told Bild newspaper, without elaborating.

"Things have happened that were not constructive," the former Ferrari driver added, still referring to Alonso.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner would not disagree, saying the fate of Vettel's teammate Mark Webber over the past few years proves Vettel's class.

"Mark Webber is a very good driver," he is quoted by Spox. "Before Vettel came into the team, his (Webber's) reputation was as a future champion. But this year in qualifying, Sebastian Vettel has beaten Mark 14 times and won nine times.

"If it was all about the car, we would be first and second in the drivers' championship, but we are not," Horner insisted.

"For me, he is now on par with Juan Manuel Fangio, Jim Clark, Jackie Stewart, Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost and Michael Schumacher," Horner added.

F1 chief executive Ecclestone thinks Vettel is even better than that.

"People don't know how many titles Senna would have won," he told Bloomberg, "but Vettel is probably the best we've had."

Sebastian Vettel and Bernie Ecclestone. (Photo: WRi2)

Bernie Ecclestone admitted Vettel's dominance has hurt TV ratings slightly.

"People complain about him winning everything," he said, "but the racing is good.

"It's a bit like with Roger Federer or Muhammad Ali," he explained. "Vettel is the best there is and people want to be there when he gets beat."

Sebastian Vettel, however, has not been a universally popular figure this year, but Schumacher thinks that is more Red Bull's fault than his.

"If you win with a traditional team, a brand full of emotion and history, that is the ultimate. And that would certainly change one or two things in his (Vettel's) situation," said the great German.

"Whether he would have had the same successes with Ferrari," Schumacher acknowledged, "is a different sheet of paper."

The cab-rearward proportions, revamped grille and taut new sheet metal on Hyundai's re-engineered Genesis are part of a plan to pit the rear-wheel-drive sedan more directly against German luxury models.

GM's ability to reverse years of losses in Europe is coming down to products, not partners.

2013 Infiniti JX35 - Four Seasons Wrap-Up

Oh, the things we carried.

Whenever we see an Infiniti, the first thing that comes through is its message of style. However, when a 2013 Infiniti JX35 AWD arrived in our Four Seasons fleet, we realized that it would be silly to look only at its exterior. Instead, we had to turn our imagination inside out, because it's the inside that counts. The sheetmetal is just the hard candy shell for the possibilities within.

Photo Gallery: 2013 Infiniti JX35 - Four Seasons Wrap-Up

Photo Gallery: 2013 Infiniti JX35 - Four Seasons Wrap-Up

2013 Infiniti JX35 - Four Seasons Wrap-Up | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us

Mercedes-Benz USA has promoted marketing chief Bernhard Glaser to the new job of vice president and managing director of Mercedes-Benz Vans USA. Drew Slaven, 47, will take Glaser's post as vice president of marketing.

Nissan is recalling 188,302 mid-sized SUVs globally to fix a software problem in the antilock braking system that may lead to an increase in stopping distance.

Before there was the Bugatti Veyron, there was the 1995 Lotec

News 23 Oct, 2013

Mercedes CLA and three other models are given full marks in the latest round of safety testing

Mississippi's Alliance for Fairness at Nissan (MAFAN) is mulling a visit to Japan in order to move its concerns surrounding unionisation at the automaker's US Canton plant, rapidly up the agenda.

In the last installment of Project Car Hell, we went with

Volkswagen's Audi has opened its EUR34m (US$46m) logistics park at its base in Gyor, Hungary, which will create some 300 jobs and manage 150 lorries a day from suppliers in 30 countries.

The 2014 Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition first made its debut at the

Hevo Power has come up with the innovative idea of using existing manhole covers in New York City to conceal wireless chargers for electric vehicles.

Toyota and PSA are likely to build about 200,000 vehicles at their joint plant in the Czech Republic this year, down from 215,000 in 2012. The partners make the Toyota Aygo, Peugeot 107 and Citroen C1 minicars at the factory.

Toyota and PSA/Peugeot-Citroen are likely to build about 200,000 vehicles at their joint plant in the Czech Republic this year, down from from 215,000 in 2012. The factory builds the Toyota Aygo, Peugeot 107 and Citroen C1 minicars.