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Finding its place in the lineup
Eventually, we all have to grow up. I know, it sucks - believe me. But it's a necessary step in life, and it seems the 2013 Nissan Sentra has finally put on its big-boy pants and is ready to take its place in the Nissan lineup as an affordable grown-up car for the middleclass looking for a stylish, functional vehicle that's good on gas.

I admit in the past I've not been too keen on the Nissan Sentra (my take on the 2012 Nissan Sentra 2.0L was less than favourable), but I think I may have warmed up to this new model ever so slightly.


What is the Nissan Sentra?
First, thank goodness the Sentra doesn't go by its Japanese name in North America (which would be “Sunny”)...

First introduced in the U.S. in 1982, the Nissan Sentra arrived to replace the Datsun 210. A sub-compact car at the time, the Nissan Sentra didn't cross over into the compact car class until 2000 (as an '01 model) -- and that particular model was my very first car. Yup. For 2013, I think the Sentra has been given a chance to shine as a compact family sedan.

Technicalities
The 2013 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a 1.8L 4-cylinder good for 130 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. There are two Sentra trims available: 1.8 S and 1.8 SV. The SV opens up to two further trim level options: SR and SL. Cosmetic and technological additions are made via the trim levels.

Standard transmission on the Nissan Sentra is a 6-speed manual transmission, however, Nissan's Xtronic CVT can be had for $1,300. The SR package (which adds 17” alloy wheels, fog lights, and a few other external goodies) can be had for $1,100. While the SL package combines the SR's exterior trim additions with the Luxury Package's technological goodies for $4,150.

The 2013 Nissan Sentra 1.8 S (in base trim with 6M) starts at $14,848, and tips the scales at $22,998 for a 1.8 SV SL (with a CVT, as tested).

The 2013 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a 1.8L 4-cylinder good for 130 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Driving the Nissan Sentra
So, here's the area I always seem to have an issue with when it comes to the Nissan Sentra: the drive.

Let's start with the good. The 2013 Nissan Sentra 1.8 SV feels quite solid on the road. The Sentra feels more upscale when driven on the open road. Steering is good and the suspension was all right, until pushed around the twisties.

Now, on to the rest. My Sentra 1.8 SV was equipped with Nissan's Xtronic CVT, a transmission I've never liked. As the revs climb and the engine noise (not to mention wind noises...) climb as well, it takes everything I have not to scream at the tachometer “JUST SHIFT” even though I know it won't. Throttle response is laggy and slow, unless the all-important “sport” button is pushed. According to Nissan, this means “maximum responsiveness” which to me just felt normal. However, I did crack a smile when in Sport mode, the CVT faked downshifts under hard braking at higher speeds -- made it all feel quite “sporty.”

There is also an ECO mode that basically makes the 2013 Nissan Sentra 1.8 SV feel like it's driving through tar. It's designed for maximum fuel efficiency and keeps revs low and throttle response choked. I chose this setting once.

As the revs climb and the engine noise (not to mention wind noises...) climb as well, it takes everything I have not to scream at the tachometer “JUST SHIFT” even though I know it won't. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Inside and out of the Nissan Sentra
Here's where the 2013 Nissan Sentra 1.8 SV SL gains some serious points in my books. If you can look past the CVT (or don't care about such things), you'll see nothing but a well-designed, mature-looking vehicle that's taken all the right steps in the direction to be attractive. Like a shrunken Altima, the Nissan Sentra actually pulls off the look much, much better. The proportions are spot on.


Inside, my 2013 Nissan Sentra 1.8 SV tester was decked out in SL trim with leather seating, a leather-stitched steering wheel (quite an attractive touch) and faux-wood inserts. All touches I'd not expect to see in the Sentra, but clearly Nissan are aiming for an older audience, leaving the Versa to fill the younger more budget-conscious generation's shoes.

I quite like Nissan's onboard entertainment and nav system, and the Luxury Package Bose stereo was also well suited to the size of the cabin and delivered well on the acoustics.

Inside, my 2013 Nissan Sentra 1.8 SV tester was decked out in SL trim with leather seating, a leather-stitched steering wheel (quite an attractive touch) and faux-wood inserts. (Photo: Philippe Champoux)

Comparing the Nissan Sentra
The 2013 Nissan Sentra 1.8 SV sits amongst some stiff competition with the likes of the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra. What does the Sentra offer that the others don't? Essentially, nothing. In terms of styling I'd say it's on par with the Civic, and then on equal footing with the others for all other aspects.

Can I finally say I like the Nissan Sentra? I'll let you decide.

Porsche has confirmed Timo Berhnard and Romain Dumas as part of it's 2014 Le Mans plans.

The Stuttgart manufacturer will return to Le Mans for the first time since 1998 as a manufacturer backed entry when it fields its new petrol-electric hybrid LMP1 car.

"For this reason, the pair [Berhard and Dumas] are already closely integrated in the development programme of our new car and will embark on an intensive test schedule from the middle of this year,” said Fritz Enzinger, head of Porsche's Le Mans project.

Despite the comments, the company has still yet to rule out Mark Webber, who is rumoured to be leaving Formula 1 at the end of the season and join Porsche for its 2014 Le Mans assault.

Porsche will announce whether it will add to its 10 factory drivers later in the year, but few of its 10 factory drivers are expected to move from its GT projects to LMP1.

Romain Dumas and Timo Bernhard. (Photo: Porsche)

Price Range: $44,300 and up

Description: Many years and many thousands of units later, the BMW 3-Series Coupe steams ahead as one of the most lusted-after and instantly recognized two-door models on this side of a six-digit pricetag. German engineering, performance and luxury culminate here.

Selection is a key success factor for any long-lived performance car model, which is why the 3-Series Coupe is offered in no fewer than 4 basic versions, and with 4 engine specifications.


Drivetrain: Starting the 3-Series Coupe powertrain range is a 3-litre straight-six engine that develops 230 horsepower and 200 lb.-ft of torque, which are sent to the rear wheels. This powerplant is standard in the 328i model lineup.

Stepping into the 335i adds TwinPower Turbo technology to the equation—boosting power output from the straight-six engine to a highly-athletic 300 horsepower and 300 lb.-ft of torque. Both engines are noted for their smooth power delivery and free-breathing, high-revving character.

Both engines utilize common technologies, including variable valve timing, to increase performance and fuel efficiency. Shoppers can specify the BMW xDrive AWD system on either 328i or 335i coupe models for increased year-round traction and agility.

The extreme-performance M3 Coupe represents the ultimate in 3-Series performance, and gets a 4-litre, 414-horsepower V8 that turns in 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds.

Consider it if: class, pedigree and exclusivity are important to you. The 3-Series coupe is a highly-recognized model with enthusiasts and enjoys a loyal following of owners. Extensive selection and options packages mean it'll be easy to configure a 3-Series coupe to your exact tastes. And, with adult-usable rear-seats and AWD available on all models but the M3, it's a performance coupe that's ready for everyday life.

Skip it if: you're on a budget, as 3-Series Coupe's don't come cheap.

Other Notes: Feature content includes available paddle-shift functionality for the automatic transmission, a full driver computer, automatic climate control, xenon lights, premium stereo systems, and numerous available enhancement packages designed to dial up interior styling, connectivity and luxury. Push-button engine start allows the driver to start the car without handling its key, and a backup camera adds confidence while maneuvering in tight quarters.

Don't Miss: the M Sport package. Taking inspiration from the top-line M3, this package adds unique paint finishes, an aero kit, lightweight wheels and a lowered suspension to the 3-Series coupe for more excitement and energy. Inside, a thicker steering wheel, sport seats and premium leather handbrake and shifter grips are added, as are special door-sills with “M” logo.

Also, don't miss the special 335is Coupe. With power dialed up and a 7-speed Double Clutch transmission fitted, this special model gives drivers elevated performance without stepping into the hardcore M3 lineup.

3-Series Coupe models even employ small motorized ‘arms' that help drivers by passing them their seatbelt once they're on board.

Photo: BMW

As crazy as it sounds, oil companies may come to the rescue of electric vehicles. Sulphur from crude oil could indeed be used to manufacture battery parts.

How? Sulphur is currently being used to synthesize thermoformed plastic; by adding a specific molecule, it is possible to make cathodes for batteries.

Given the low demand for sulphur, global stocks have now reached gigantic proportions, and represent a golden opportunity for companies in the sustainable development industry.

Research by Jeffrey Pryun and his team at the University of Arizona indicates that sulphur has electrochemical properties that can help improve lithium-sulphur battery performance and longevity.

While cheaper, lighter, and more efficient than lithium-ion batteries, lithium-sulphur batteries don't last nearly as long. However, by adding sulphur to the plastic used for cathodes, they could have a very promising future.

By the way, a single litre of gas contains about 2.7 grams of sulphur.

Source: Futura-Sciences

Highlights*
The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback offers reliable performance, a comfortable ride, and generous cargo room.

Lowlights*
The brand's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system is not available on this model which may prompt some potential buyers to look elsewhere. Unlike the sedan, this five-door Lancer makes do with the smaller, 2.0L engine (no 2.4L available). Finally, rearward visibility is improved.


Pricing
The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback starts at $19,798 in base SE trim. Equipment includes Bluetooth connectivity, heated front seats, a chrome grille, audio controls on the steering wheel, a 6-way adjustable driver's seat, 16” alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler.

Priced from $24,198, the more upscale GT model adds a 710-Watt Rockford Fosgate sound system, Fast-Key access, automatic climate control, leather seats, a chrome exhaust tip, fog lights, a power sunroof, and distinctive, 5-spoke wheels.

Fuel consumption
The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback is rated at 8.5L/100km city, 5.9L/100km highway, and 7.3L/100km combined with the manual transmission.

Opting for the CVT doesn't change the average fuel consumption. However, it changes city driving to 8.3L/100km and highway to 6.1L/100km.

Styling
The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback looks just as aggressive up front as the regular, 4-door Lancer. However, it's a different story in the back where the very angular liftgate gives this model a unique profile among current hatchbacks.

Cargo capacity
The rear cargo floor offers 9 cm of height adjustment. In the raised position, the trunk can hold 391 litres of cargo; once you set it down, you get 433 litres. Of course, you can also fold the rear seats, which increases cargo capacity to 1,320 litres.

Powertrain
As mentioned above, the single engine choice with the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback is a 2.0L 4-cylinder that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The standard 5-speed manual transmission can be replaced by a CVT (GT models even add paddle shifters).

Safety
Seven airbags come standard, as well as a tire pressure monitoring system, stability and traction control, ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist.

Warranty
The 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback boasts a 5-year/100,000-km comprehensive limited warranty, a 10-year/160,000-km powertrain warranty, plus five years of roadside assistance.

Competitors
Ford Focus Hatchback, Subaru Impreza 5-Door, Mazda3 Sport, Kia Forte 5, Volkswagen Golf

Photo: Mitsubishi

* Based on expert reviews.
Lachapelle Marc, Le guide de l'auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions de l'homme, 2012, p.476
Joubert Antoine, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montreal, Transcontinental, 2012, p.458
www.mitsubishi-motors.ca

Marussia's reserve driver, Rodolfo Gonzales will take part in first practice for this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix.

Gonzales was made the team's reserve driver in March, and will make his debut for the team in FP1 on Friday at the Sakhir International Circuit.

The Venezuelan is undaunted by the task given he has previous knowledge of the track and has tested for both the Caterham and Force India teams.

“I'm really happy with this opportunity to drive in my first FP1 session of the season," he said. "It will be a nice feeling to be back in a car - especially to drive a Formula 1 car again.”

“With my previous F1 experience,” he continued, “I feel more than comfortable and ready.

I love this circuit; it will be quite dusty in FP1 but it's also good fun and I'm looking forward to seeing what I can achieve.”

Photo: Marussia F1 Team

Gonzales will take the seat of the team's race driver, Jules Bianchi for the session.

“We are pleased to welcome our Reserve Driver Rodolfo Gonzalez to the car for his first FP1 session of the season," said Marussia team principal John Booth.

“On this occasion he will take over from Jules for the morning but we will see him taking part in this session at several of the races this season and we will alternate between the two cars.”

Yesterday at the Edmonton Auto Show, Mitsubishi finally revealed the name of the unidentified new subcompact car that made its Canadian debut earlier this year. Unsurprisingly, it will be known as “Mirage” like in other parts of the world.

The model is scheduled to arrive in showrooms this fall with a base MSRP below $13,000.

Inspired from the “Global Small” concept car, the 1.2L, three-cylinder Mitsubishi Mirage produces 74 horsepower. Fuel consumption ratings will be 4.9L/100km highway and 5.3L/100km city for CVT-equipped models. Expect 4.6 and 4.9L/100km, respectively, with the manual transmission.

“Fuel efficiency is our global focus, our company mission”, said Tony Laframboise, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada.

He noted that the Mitsubishi RVR compact crossover achieves class-leading 6.1L/100km, and that the Mitsubishi Lancer is “not far behind”, while the all-electric i-MiEV hatchback never requires gasoline or an oil change.

Photo: Mitsubishi

From GMM

Hankook, a South Korean company, has emerged as an alternative official tire supplier for formula one.

Currently the subject of intense criticism of its heavily-degrading 2013 product, F1's official supplier Pirelli has said it wants to stay on the grid beyond its initial three-year tender that runs out at the end of the season.

But the Italian marque's F1 chief Paul Hembery said last week that Pirelli is nervous it has not yet been offered a new deal for 2014 and beyond.

"We cannot remain in such a situation of uncertainty," he warned.

When Pirelli was given the nod to enter F1 for the 2011 season, another major contender for the contract was Hankook.

At the time, the Korean company's chief Hyan Bum Cho said he had negotiated personally with Bernie Ecclestone.

"We had a very good talk and maybe we'll have a shot for next term, or another term," he said in late 2010.

Photo: Pirelli

The source Italiaracing is now reporting rumours that Hankook is once again a possible alternative to Pirelli for formula one in 2014 and beyond.

For now, Hembery is unable to say if Pirelli is definitely committed beyond November's Interlagos finale.

"We want to know as soon as possible if we are continuing to be the supplier," he is quoted as saying, "as it also depends on the regulations. We are interested in F1 in the medium term, but only as long as there is a way to have it make financial sense."

Toyota Motor is being offered nearly $147 million in tax incentives by Kentucky to add a model and expand a plant in the state that's already the company's largest in North America.

Ford's Flat Rock Assembly Plant has a four-decade history split between the Blue Oval and Mazda. As of last year, the facility was back under Ford's sole control.

Maserati has named Chrysler executive Robert Graczyk CEO of the company's North America division, effective immediately.

Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germanyand#8217;s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the

MG Motor said its MG CS concept previews a potential compact SUV/crossover that would target young, fashion-conscious people.

The Bugatti Veyron Super Sport is back as the and#8220;Fastest Production Carand#8221; after Guinness World Records looked deeper into the claim, and decided that

ArcelorMittal USA, part of the world's biggest steelmaker, sued units of OAO Severstal, Russia's second-largest steelmaker, and Nisshin Steel Holdings for allegedly infringing a patent for metal used in auto parts.

Ford Motor Co. has raised its stake in China's Jiangling Motors to 31.5 percent from 30 percent and is looking to increase it to as much as 32 percent over the next year, both companies said on Wednesday.

B456 Systems, the bankrupt electric-car battery maker formerly called A123 Systems, received approval of a settlement with Fisker Automotive, reducing its claims by 89 percent to $15 million.

Update on McNabb

First quarter figures for 2013 show an encouraging start to the year for Honda in Europe which said that sales grew 16.3% to 40,499 units compared to the same period last year.

General Motors' Opel supervisory board has approved plans to close the car plant in Bochum, Germany, at the end of 2014 after workers rejected a deal that would have kept the factory going as a parts facility.