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Usually, the saying is: Respect your elders. After all, those who have been around longer are wiser than you and know more so you must respect that. Well, when you're on the road it's not about age, but about size.

I drive a traffic-packed route to work every single morning. I've seen my fair share of accidents, road rage and wide open stretches (blissfully). I've also seen my fair share of 18-wheelers and cargo-carrying trucks. They're big, lumbering vehicles that take up a lot of room on the road. They are slower than all the other cars around them, taking ages to gear up and gear down. They don't zip from lane to lane and they don't speed off as soon as the light turns green, or the road opens up. Slow and steady wins the race for these guys.

And I respect that. Others, it seems, do not.

All too often have I seen cars cutting off these giants on the road -- poking the bear. They zip around 18-wheelers (or bigger) slamming on their brakes in front, riding in their massive blind spots and honking when these giants are slow to get moving.

I don't get it.

Would you yell at someone carrying a massive amount of luggage at the airport to get out of your way? Would you cut them off in line because you knew they'd be slow to move forward (to exactly the same location as you, anyways)? Would you dart around them like a little gnat, dangerously close to their trolly wheels just to gain a few seconds?

No, because as people outside of our vehicles we generally don't behave like that.

Yet, somehow on the road we become these obnoxious little creatures nipping at the heels of larger delivery trucks, dump trucks, construction vehicles and any other slow-moving cars on the road. Even in flowing traffic I've seen vehicles play a morbid game of tag with big rigs, darting around them as they try and get away from the slower-moving giants.

To me, it's just not worth it.

Photo: Sébastien D'Amours

In all honesty, I like following massive trucks in traffic. Because it takes them so long to gear up, they often don't brake. They leave a great deal of space in front of them (which is always quickly filled with fast-moving, gnat-like cars) so they can just coast, which means the traffic behind them can coast too without hitting the brakes over and over again. I might be going slower than most, but my ankle thanks me for it later.

For those who like to poke the bear on the road remember this: They are much bigger than you. Their braking distance is humungous compared to yours. Drivers of these vehicles have also often been behind the wheel and on the road for days and are in no mood to put up with your sh*t, and they are in just as much of a “rush” as you are.

Give them the respect they deserve.

One Canadian and two Britons are in the hunt for the 2012 DTM title with just one race to contest in Hockenheim, Germany.

In the penultimate race held in Valencia, Spengler managed to finish 6th while Paffett was forced into retirement with a broken car. This allowed the Canadian to move only three points down to the McLaren F1 test driver.

Here is the points possibility chart with the current standings and the points awared for each position.


Auto123.com will be on location and will provide live reports from Hockeneheim on October 21.

Let's review the three drivers who still have a mathematical chance of claiming the title.

Gary Paffett (Mercedes C Coupe, British, 32-year-old, 127 points
Paffett dominated the early part of the season and seemed to be en route to the 2012 title. However, he collided with another competitor in Zandvoort, and retired in Valencia. He is now just three pointsd ahead of Spengler.

Gary Paffett, Mercedes C-Coupé. (Photo: DTM)

Let us keep in mind however that the Brit is a vastly experienced competitor as well as a past series' champion. He also easily won the opening race in Hockenheim in April. His Mercedes teammates will likely help him during the decisive race.

Bruno Spengler (BMW M3, Canadian, 29-year-old, 124 points
Few experts expected BMW, making a return to the DTM this season after a 20-year absence to be in the hunt for the title. BMW made stunning progress and captured victory in only its second race at the Lausitzring.

Bruno Spengler, BMW M3. (Photo: DTM)

Spengler then captured two more wins at the Nurburgring and Oschersleben, and took sixth place in Valencia this past Sunday despite a costly drive-through for having jumped the start.

However, Spengler has never won the title before although he's been in the hunt five times in recent years.

Jamie Green (Mercedes C Coupe, British, 30-year-old, 109 points
To win the title, Jamie Green must win the Hockenheim race with Paffett and Spengler not finishing higher than 7th and 5th, respectively. This scenario can happen, because the final race will likely be hotly contested and there will be contacts everywhere in the field.

Jamie Green, Mercedes C-Coupé. (Photo: DTM)

Green did also well in Hockenheim back in April when he finished second, yards behind his teammate Paffett.

A total of 15,379 Dodge Dakota and Ram 1500 pickup trucks from the 2009 and 2010 model years are the subject of a recall by Chrysler.

On certain vehicles, the rear axle pinion nut may have been incorrectly manufactured and could loosen. As a result, the rear driveshaft could become detached from the rear axle, or fully detached from the vehicle.

Pinion nut separation could also cause the rear axle differential to fail suddenly, causing rear wheel lockup and a possible loss of propulsion or vehicle control.

Owners are advised to take their Dakota or 1500 pickup to a Chrysler dealer to have a pinion nut retainer installed.

Source: Transports Canada

2010 Dodge Ram (Photo: Matthieu Lambert)

2009 Dodge Dakota (Photo: Dodge)

From GMM

Michael Schumacher's famous former manager has advised the seven time world champion to finally quit formula one for good.

Having recently negotiated the great German's latest personal sponsorship deal, Willi Weber made headlines by announcing that - if he was still in charge - he would travel to Maranello for a chat with Luca di Montezemolo.

In the wake of Mercedes' decision to overlook Schumacher for a 2013 seat, that triggered real speculation that the 43-year-old could return to Ferrari next year to replace Felipe Massa.

Willi Weber, however, hopes it doesn't happen.

"Michael doesn't have to prove one more thing," he told Auto Motor und Sport. "He was the best driver in the world. As a manager I would maybe try to get him in there (Ferrari), but I cannot imagine that it would be considered seriously. With all respect for Michael and his legend, now is the time for the younger ones."

And he said Schumacher should absolutely not court a move to Sauber.

"What is this? Continue with Sauber? With a private team? I can't imagine Michael doing that. Nothing against Peter Sauber, as what he has done this year is better than what Mercedes has done. But someone like Michael belongs with a global company or a famous racing team. And at Sauber he cannot fight for the title," added Weber.

Michael Schumacher and Sabine Kehm. (Photo: WRi2)

The Sauber link, however, will continue for as long as Schumacher and his new manager Sabine Kehm do not rule out otherwise.

Kehm told CNN: "The answer is that we will carefully think about any options we have. We are not in a hurry to do this. In the meantime though we will not give out any reports and discuss the different steps."

Niki Lauda was instrumental in Mercedes' decision to replace Schumacher with Lewis Hamilton, but the great Austrian hopes the former Benetton and Ferrari driver does not retire altogether.

"Naturally, his withdrawal would leave a big hole in formula one," he is quoted by Der Spiegel.

Honda Canada issued a voluntary recall on 29,947 Honda Accord V6 sedans from the 2003 to 2007 model years.

In some cases, the power steering hose could crack and leak due to prolonged exposure to high heat. Leaking power steering fluid could lead to a loss of power steering assistance or, if it leaks onto a catalytic converter, it may result in smoke or a fire.

In a statement released by the company on Monday, we've learned that the updated power steering hose necessary to complete final repair won't be available until early 2013. Owners of affected Accords will soon receive an initial notification by mail informing them of this issue.

However, if they believe that their Accord is exhibiting symptoms potentially related to a power steering hose leak, owners should take their vehicle to their local Honda dealer for inspection and, if necessary, interim repair.

Source: Transports Canada

2003 Honda Accord (Photo: Honda)

By finishing fourth and third in the last two rounds of the year in the Formula 2 Championship, Luciano Bacheta secured the 2012 series' title.

Fifteen-year-old Matheo Tuscher, who was ranking second in the point standings prior to Monza, put pressure on the Brit as he captured pole position. Tuscher then took victory in Race 1 Saturday in front of Christopher Zanella and Kevin Mirocha.

In Race 2 Sunday, Zanella took the win while Bacheta secured the title by finishing in third position ahead of Kevin Mirocha. Bacheta, who was dominant in the early season, was then put under pressure from Tuscher. Bacheta remained focused and managed to clinch a well-deserved title.

Luciano Bacheta, 2012 F2 Champion. (Photo: FormulaTwo)

He will have the chance to have a test a Williams F1 car, while Matheo Tuscher and Christopher Zanella will test a GP2 car.

Race 1:
1 - Matheo Tuscher - 21 laps in 41'36”553
2 - Christopher Zanella - 2”827

3 - Kevin Mirocha - 15”712

4 - Luciano Bacheta - 17”676

5 - Harald Schlegelmilch - 25”932
Etc.

Race 2:
1 - Christopher Zanella - 21 laps in 35'20”423
2 - Kevin Mirocha - 4”780

3 - Luciano Bacheta - 6”366

4 - Mihai Marinescu - 6”957

5 - Matheo Tuscher - 7”030
Etc.

Final Standings:
1. Bacheta 231,5 points ; 2. Tuscher 210; 3. Zanella 196; 4. Pommer 169; 5. Marinescu 161, etc.

Volkswagen Canada announced yesterday that the new 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will start at $14,990, which undercuts this year's entry-level Trendline model by $885 yet carries even more equipment.

The list includes a height-adjustable, telescopic steering wheel, AM/FM/CD stereo with four speakers, power door locks and windows, 15'' steel wheels, disc brakes at all corners, ESP, and a 5-speed manual transmission, among other features.

Meanwhile, the 2013 Jetta Trendline+ will retail for $16,690 and add air conditioning, an adjustable front centre armrest with storage, cruise control, heated front seats and washer nozzles, and remote transmitters for central locking.

Finally, the top-of-the-line 2013 Jetta Comfortline is priced at $19,590 and stands out with 15" alloy wheels, an alarm system, Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, heated exterior mirrors, and a power sunroof.

Engine options include a TDI Clean Diesel, a 2.5L inline 5-cylinder, and a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder. A Jetta Hybrid, featuring the world's first turbocharged hybrid powertrain, will soon join the lineup.

Photo: Volkswagen

A GM spokesman told Automotive News that GM and Ford are willing to work together on new automatic transmissions in an effort to improve fuel economy, adding that the two automakers "hope to announce a definitive agreement soon."

The Blue Oval preferred to stay mum beyond this short statement: "We always talk to other companies including GM."

In a partnership dating back to 2002, Ford and GM developed a family of 6-speed automatic transmissions for FWD vehicles, including the Ford Fusion and Escape as well as the Chevrolet Malibu and Cruze.

GM is reportedly working on a 9-speed gearbox design for FWD vehicles, while Ford is exploring a 10-speed unit for RWD vehicles such as pickups, SUVs and performance cars.

Significant savings in engineering and product development are expected for both automakers, although they still are in the design phase and probably won't be ready to start production before 2015.

Source: Automotive News

Nissan Canada announced pricing for the all-new 2013 Nissan Sentra, which is scheduled to arrive at dealerships across the country around the end of October.

The new Sentra is slightly larger and roomier yet 5% lighter and 13% more fuel-efficient than the outgoing model. When equipped with the next-generation Xtronic CVT, it achieves a combined city-highway rating of 5.8L/100km, which translates into a range of about 860 kilometres. The 1.8L engine can alternatively team up with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Available technologies on the 2013 Nissan Sentra include NissanConnect with Navigation and Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant as well as streaming audio via Bluetooth and a 5.8'' touchscreen display.

Sentra 1.8 S M6	$14 848,00
Sentra 1.8 S CVT	$17 548,00
Sentra 1.8 SV M6	$17 548,00
Sentra 1.8 SV CVT	$18 848,00
Sentra 1.8 SR CVT	$19 948,00
Sentra 1.8 SL CVT	$22 998,00

Photo: Nissan

According to some European web sites, Romanian car maker Dacia - a property of Renault - has decided to withdraw from the Andros Trophy and will not contest the 2012-2013 ice racing series.

During the Paris Auto Show, series' organiser and promoter Max Mamers announced that the presentation of this year's series will be held at Val Thorens, France November 24 and 25. But that would be without Dacia.

Alain Prost, Dacia. (Photo: WRi2)

Dacia's withdrawal from the Andros Trophy should not be seen as a major surprise. Last year's championship was marked by intense frustration and mutual accusations by the two major manufacturers involved: Dacia and Skoda.

The controversy that happened at the last race of the season, when Alain Prost (Dacia) and Jacques Villeneuve (Skoda) collided at the first corner (an incident that almost cost the title to Prost) was probably too much to endure for Dacia.

If Dacia indeed quits the series, that will leave Alain Prost without a drive.

“Since I am an ambassador of the Renault Group, which includes Dacia, I cannot drive for another car manufacturer. It's quite evident. For that reason, I will not contest the Andros Trophy this winter,” Prost told French web site Autonewsinfo.

The Chevrolet Sonic RS breathes new life into an already popular-selling vehicle.


What's New With You?
Sometimes, when people ask each other: “What's new with you?” the response can be, “Oh, not much.” But if you ask the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS the same question, its answer will not be as short-winded. In fact, this new trim adds a lot of new and cool features to an already darling little hatchback and takes its presence to a new level.

Without creating a laundry list of the factoids that comprise its newness, here are a few features that set it apart, physically, from other Sonic family members. First off, there's the new front fascia with a revised fog lamp design, there's an RS-specific grille, a new rear fascia, a sport exhaust with a chrome outlet, rear spoiler and unique 17-inch 5-spoke wheels.

Motorcycle Inspired
The cockpit of the RS is lively and infused with style. The new front leather seats, flat-bottom steering (complete with red stitching), aluminum sport pedals and standard MyLink stereo system make it a winning combination.

The instrument cluster ahead of the driver was inspired by the designs found on motorcycles and further ads to the sporty dynamics of this hatchback.

The cockpit of the RS is lively and infused with style. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

Turbocharged? Yes, Please
Optional on LT and LTZ trims, the RS features as standard fare the turbocharged 1.4L, 4-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. Needless to say, this Sonic has pep coming out of the yin-yang. And it's darn fun to drive.

The pumped up ponies can either be reined in via a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Either one is a good choice. Of the two, the manual has my heart, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much the automatic impressed me. Although I'm not a huge fan of its ‘manual' mode just being a small +/- button on the gear selector - it was a little awkward for me to use - keeping it in D was just peachy.

The RS features as standard fare the turbocharged 1.4L, 4-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Alexandra Straub)

Drive Time
Driving along the sinuous roads that comprise a lot of northern California's commuting routes gave me a chance to test out the lowered and stiffened suspension with performance-tuned dampers. It feels firmly planted and, thanks to the unique ride and handling package (its suspension is also 10 mm closer to the ground), it's ready to attack.

I was also pleasantly surprised as to how tight the steering felt. It wasn't limp nor was it too heavy to carry the RS through the turns. The flat bottom steering wheel felt nice in the hands and performed to the task. Whether driving monotonously on a highway stretch or enjoying the roller coaster-like switchbacks of the various streets, a good time was had.

Combined with more aggressive gear ratios in the manual, it made for an engaging experience that I'd like to have more of in the future.

Fuel economy and pricing for the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS is TBD.

From GMM

Niki Lauda has vowed "no compromise" amid speculation he is the new strong man at Mercedes.

Some insiders have drawn a parallel between the triple world champion's new arrival as non-executive chairman at Mercedes and his role at Jaguar early last decade.

Ten years ago, Lauda joined Jaguar and tension between him and team boss Bobby Rahal led to the great Austrian's ascension to the throne.

So should Ross Brawn and Norbert Haug be worried now?

"I certainly will not compromise," 63-year-old Lauda told Osterreich in an interview.

"Together, we must ensure that Mercedes is able to compete next season. I'm not an engineer, so I will see that the right people are working with the right priorities and figure out why it did not work out this year," said Lauda.

Photo: Mercedes AMG F1 Team

He baulked at reports he is set to take over from Briton Brawn as the real 'strong man' of Mercedes.

"That's still (going to be) the team principal Ross Brawn, who is responsible for the development of the car and the team," Lauda insisted to the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung newspaper.

"I'm something like the link between the racing headquarters in the UK and the company headquarters in Germany," he explained.

Indeed, Lauda will have little to do with the operation of the team at grands prix, as he is continuing as a television pundit for the German broadcaster RTL.

Nissan will start pricing on its redesigned 2013 Sentra compact sedan at $440 less than the outgoing Sentra.

BMW will release two special versions of the X1, designed to reflect the SUV's ability to tackle the winter months. The X1s will be highlighted during the

Canada's Magna International plans to buy Ixetic Verwaltungs GmbH, a German maker of automotive vacuum, engine and transmission pumps, for about 308 million euros ($397 million).

Nissan has released sticker prices for the redesigned 2013 Sentra sedan.

Fisker Automotive CEO Tony Posawatz, five weeks into leading the luxury plug-in hybrid carmaker, says the company has a lot of work to do -- and says discussions with strategic partners are 'on our radar screen.

Also in this episode: Ford teams up with

British performance engineering firm Cosworth has teamed up with a wide range of automakers since its founding in 1958.

A recent 220-volt shock administered by the $23K-plus window sticker of a loaded Ford Fiesta rental car made me think about what the same dollars would buy in a classic car, and what the relative cost of ownership would be.