Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Official: 2014 BMW 335i M Performance Edition limited run in Canada ends May 17]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-bmw-335i-m-performance-edition-limited-run-in-canada-ends-m/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-bmw-335i-m-performance-edition-limited-run-in-canada-ends-m/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/2014-bmw-335i-m-performance-edition-limited-run-in-canada-ends-m/#comments

For those buyers who simply can't wait for the next generation BMW M3 (or whatever the new naming convention may be), it appears BMW Canada has your solution. For a very limited time, BMW will be offering the BMW 335i and the 335i xDrive M Performance Edition to Canadians, but you'll have to act fast. The über-limited Edition will be available to order here only until May 17! As we saw at the Vancouver Auto Show, there is lots to discuss about the M Performance Edition considering it's wealth of tuning parts fitted to the already impressive 335i but for a modest MSRP.

Upon first glance, it's clear the aero upgrades are crafted with purpose. The dramatic front bumper is fitted with a body-colour front splitter to reduce lift. The M Performance sideskirts are colour-matched with a black insert and 'M-Performance' badging. Around the rear of the 335i is a rear diffuser and subtle lip spoiler to manage the airflow passing the F30 silhouette. Black kidney grilles supplant the chrome units to enhance the appearance already augmented by 20-inch M Performance alloy wheels.

Under the lid is the M Power Kit, which includes free-flow air intake, tuned ECU and improved cooling parts. The M Performance exhaust is also fitted to the car and the resulting output rises from 300 hp/ 300 lb-ft to 326 hp with 332 lb-ft (317 lb-ft on 6MT cars). While we haven't had a chance to test the M Performance Edition, we have tested other models with the M Power kit and exhaust, which combine for a notable improvement in performance and aggresive sound. BMW claims an impressive 4.9-second 0-100 km/h (62 mph) time shaved down from 5.4s of the standard 335i.

When it comes to colour selection, BMW kept it limited but very high impact. The 335i M Performance Edition can be ordered in one of four colours: Black Sapphire, Glacier Silver, Valencia Orange and one of our all time faves Laguna Seca Blue. Inside the cabin, buyer's are treated with Individual piano black inserts.

Click here for a complete list of all of the tweaks and Canadian MSRP as you read on below.

Gallery: 2013 BMW M-Performance 335i X-Drive at Vancouver Auto Show

Continue reading 2014 BMW 335i M Performance Edition limited run in Canada ends May 17

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2014 BMW 335i M Performance Edition limited run in Canada ends May 17 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 14 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 series3-series335335 xdrive335ibmwbmw 335bmw MBMW M3M PerformanceM3Performance PackagexdriveTue, 14 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Gumball 3000 2013: Copenhagen to Monaco will cover 13 countries]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/gumball-3000-2013-copenhagen-to-monaco-will-cover-13-countries/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/gumball-3000-2013-copenhagen-to-monaco-will-cover-13-countries/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/gumball-3000-2013-copenhagen-to-monaco-will-cover-13-countries/#comments

Once again, the Gumball 3000 machine fires up and will blast through exotic locales to thrill millions of fans worldwide. Now, celebrating its 15th anniversary (wow, that just hit us), the 2013 Gumball 3000 rally will be whisking through 13 countries on a 3,000 mile (5,000 km) trek from Copenhagen, Denmark to the spectacular shores of Monaco. For those of you with race schedules etched into your cortex, that coincides nicely with the Monaco Grand Prix F1 race.

While the masses can only fantasize about this kind of fuel-filled man-cation, rest assured well have all of the action here. Starting in Copenhagen on May 18, the armada of 100 luxury and exotic cars will be stopping in the following cities: Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Warsaw, Vienna, Monte Carlo. Of course hitting up 13 countries in only six days will be an intense ride but Gumballers are a different breed who drive hard and party all night. Just the kind of exclusive event that attracts celebrities who will include: David Hasselhoff, Eve, DJ Muggs, Xzibit, Tony Hawk, The Dudesons and the list goes on.

But naturally, we're all about the hardware. Gumball has confirmed the presence of some exotic staples for 2013 from such makes as: Bugatti, Ferrari, Koenigsegg, Aston Martin, Bentley, Rollers and many oddball creations like the Batman Tumbler. Sadly, our schedule dictates that Autoblog Canada can't make it this year but we did run with them in the 2012 rally. In 2014, the Gumball will be back in North America and we can only hope it runs through Canada again as it did in both 2010 and 2012!

Be sure to check out our coverage of the 2012 Gumball, from the Time Square grid, to Toronto, to Detroit, to Los Angeles!

Gallery: Gumball 3000 Starting Grid

Continue reading Gumball 3000 2013: Copenhagen to Monaco will cover 13 countries

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Gumball 3000 2013: Copenhagen to Monaco will cover 13 countries originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 10 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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While the race for more gears inside a transmission continues, there are still buyers who want to get back to basics. It seems 8-speed boxes are in everything now and Volkswagen has just promised a 10-speed dual clutch unit to wring out ridiculously low fuel consumption. While it seems like only yesterday manual transmissions were the way for performance cars to go, many outstanding paddle shifters have been developed to embarrass the best of gear bangers.

At the same time, there are certain models that deserve a manual transmission. Not only are they more engaging, but they evoke that charm and soul that the automated boxes lack. Just as gearheads lament the demise of the manual transmission in the current GT3 and now the next generation 911 Turbo will only have the PDK too, we find this in the Porsche Canada press fleet.

To our surprise, the 2013 Porsche Cayenne V6 can be bought with a proper 6-speed manual transmission complete with a third pedal in the driver's foot well. Yes, of course there is the 8-speed Tiptronic available for those who want to play gas-brake in traffic. But for the purpose of this test, it was time to engage this SUV very differently, in a way that we haven't engaged a car since last year! After some quick calculations, the last time I drove stick before this Cayenne 6MT was early November and if memory is correct, it was one of my own personal cars.

Continue reading 2013 Porsche Cayenne 6-speed

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2013 Porsche Cayenne 6-speed originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 03 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 Porsche Cayenne2013 Porsche Cayenne manualCanadian pricingCayenneCayenne canadaCayenne canada priceCayenne reviewmanualmanual 2013 Porsche Cayennemanual CayennePorschePorsche CanadareviewreviewsFri, 03 May 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda Civic drivers caught in 200 km/h street race outside Ottawa]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/honda-civic-drivers-caught-in-200-km-h-street-race-outside-ottaw/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/honda-civic-drivers-caught-in-200-km-h-street-race-outside-ottaw/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/honda-civic-drivers-caught-in-200-km-h-street-race-outside-ottaw/#comments
While street racing is nothing new, you'd think with all of the negative media attention and strict laws put in place, drivers would get the message. However, the need to line up against another vehicle is too strong for some young drivers and even if you win, you can still lose a lot. Along with the rise in temperatures, the amount of dangerous driving escalates and two men have been busted in the Gatineau area just outside Ottawa for doing over 200 km/h in a highway roll.

The Ottawa Citizen reports that two men, aged 19 and 20 (their names have not been released) are facing fines for street racing and speeding. Officers if the MRC des Collines-de-l'Outaouais spotted the two Honda Civics rolling at the speed limit side-by-side on highway 50 but after three honks, they went wide open throttle reaching speeds of over 200 km/h. The police cruiser in pursuit was used as a speed measuring device in a method called "pacing" which can serve as an alternative to radar.

"They saw them going faster and faster so they were able to monitor the speed, with the speed of the cruiser," Const. Martin Fournel told the Ottawa Citizen. "They had a hard time keeping up."

The pair have both received fines of $1,100 and 18 demerit points for speeding, $1,000 and 12 demerit points for racing, have had their licences suspended and their 1994 and 2012 Honda Civics impounded for seven days.

Click here to watch video of two taxis seized for street racing in Toronto.

Gallery: 2012 Honda Civic Si HFP

Continue reading Honda Civic drivers caught in 200 km/h street race outside Ottawa

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Honda Civic drivers caught in 200 km/h street race outside Ottawa originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 02 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civicdrag racinghighway rollhondahonda civicottawa street racerace civicstreet racingstreet racing civicThu, 02 May 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW Headquarters and BMW Welt in Munich make world's top corporate building list]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/bmw-headquarters-and-bmw-welt-in-munich-make-worlds-top-corpora/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/bmw-headquarters-and-bmw-welt-in-munich-make-worlds-top-corpora/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/bmw-headquarters-and-bmw-welt-in-munich-make-worlds-top-corpora/#comments
If you are into cars and happen to be traveling through Germany, Munich is one place you should hit the brakes and take it all in. Since this is the hometown of BMW, there are some fascinating landmarks to see there, including the BMW World Headquarters and the BMW Welt. We recently had a tour of both of these architectural gems and the impressive designs have caught the eye of an international architectural jury as they have been voted amongst the world's top corporate buildings by Emporis.

Although there are an array of stunning corporate buildings around the world, it isn't always the tallest or the most ornate that claim the bragging rights. The jury Emporis put together studied corporate buildings from across the globe but BMW claimed two of the top five slots. In the second spot is the legendary BMW World Headquarters, one of Munich's most famous landmarks. The stylish 4-cylinder design was built in 1972 and stands a modest 101m tall opposite the Olympics park in this southern German metropolis. Number three on the list is the outrageous BMW Welt (BMW World) which is essentially a large dealership where cars can be researched, tested and euro delivery can be taken for consumers on our side of the pond. The 19m structure is a dramatic swooping maze of steel, glass and concrete, one that appears even more brilliant when basking in coloured lighting at night.

Also making the Emporis list was another automotive building, the GM Rennaissance Centre in Detroit, MI. While everyone will tell you the best views of Detroit are from Canada, the RenCen stands as a lasting reminder to the former power-base of all things automotive in the "Big D."

For the full list, click here to read on.

Gallery: BMW Museum

Continue reading BMW Headquarters and BMW Welt in Munich make world's top corporate building list

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BMW Headquarters and BMW Welt in Munich make world's top corporate building list originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 01 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotive headquartersbavariaBavarian Motor WerksBMWbmw headquartersBMW HQbmw weltEmporisMunichtop buildingsWed, 01 May 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Ferrari F430 Scuderia owner arrested over video of underage boys joyride [w/video]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/ferrari-F430-scuderia-driving-kids-parents-charged-by-indian-police/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/ferrari-F430-scuderia-driving-kids-parents-charged-by-indian-police/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/ferrari-F430-scuderia-driving-kids-parents-charged-by-indian-police/#commentsYoung boy captured joyriding in father's Ferrari on video - screencap

Not too long ago, we showed off a frightening video of two very young boys driving a Ferrari F430 Scuderia on the street. To our shock, it was an adult filming the underage kids driving along a suburban street in the Kerala area of India while several others looked on. The risky stunt appeared authentic and quickly went viral but little was known until the incident until now.

According to the Toronto Star, a wealthy businessman let his son drive the rare Ferrari as a present for his ninth birthday. While us car guys are hating on this kid since we never did anything remotely as cool at this age, we realize this could have turned deadly real quick. Look at how close these kids are to the airbags and we don't see any seat belts in use either. And to to add to the reckless endangerment we see here, it is the mother of the boys who is filming the incident.

The boys' father, Muhammad Nizam, has been arrested and is facing several charges and possible impounded of the Scud. The successful real estate and tobacco mogul is said to own 18 exotic cars totally $4 million. The video still remains on YouTube despite the legal mess, which in our experience is rare considering the evidence is most certainly stacked against them.

If you missed the stupidity, we have the video posted after the jump.

Gallery: Ferrari LaFerrari: Geneva 2013

Continue reading Ferrari F430 Scuderia owner arrested over video of underage boys joyride [w/video]

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Ferrari F430 Scuderia owner arrested over video of underage boys joyride [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad parentsferrariferrari f430ferrari f430 scuderiaindiakids drivingparentingparenting failScuderiaunderage drivingvideoTue, 30 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Falken Tire Porsche GT3-RSR Forza 4 livery timelapse is ALMS ready]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/falken-porsche-gt3-rsr-forza-4-livery-timelapse-is-alms-realism/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/falken-porsche-gt3-rsr-forza-4-livery-timelapse-is-alms-realism/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/falken-porsche-gt3-rsr-forza-4-livery-timelapse-is-alms-realism/#comments

Having followed the Falken Tire story for a while now, they certainly have some dedicated fans. Whether it's at a Formula D drifting event, off road truck event or ALMS race, there are plenty of fans wearing their colours, waving their flag and running their product. Their efforts in ALMS was recently captured in an outstanding 12 Hours of Sebring documentary and one talented fan has taken his love of their #17 Porsche 911 GT3-RSR race car and created his own livery on Forza 4 for XBOX.

While we were excited about the amazing livery creation tool in Forza 4, we soon figured out we don't have that kind of time to learn the technique and get crazy with custom designs. However, some Falken fans do have the time, like artist DJ Lime who spent 97 hours on this custom livery. He documents all 3,406 layers in a stunning timelapse video from start to finish to the track of: noises that make use want to hit mute. Musical tastes aside, what an incredible job, one that got him noticed by Falken as a leading entry in their design contest that will end up on an actual race-ready Porsche.

We're sure DJ Lime has a legitimate shot here at winning the contest and most certainly has a career in design lined up. Check out his design video with the dramatic Falken ZEIX ZE-912 tread pattern across it (although we would have went for the more hardcore RT-615K).


Gallery: Porsche 918 - Martini livery

Continue reading Falken Tire Porsche GT3-RSR Forza 4 livery timelapse is ALMS ready

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Falken Tire Porsche GT3-RSR Forza 4 livery timelapse is ALMS ready originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ALMSfalkenfalken driftFalken Porschefalken tireForzaForza 4GT3porsche 911Porsche 911 GT3porsche 911 GT3 RSRPorsche RSRRSRXBOXMon, 29 Apr 2013 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW E30 crashed into house by R3VLimited.com forum troll, then gets owned]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/bmw-e30-crashed-into-house-by-r3v-forum-troll-then-gets-owned/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/bmw-e30-crashed-into-house-by-r3v-forum-troll-then-gets-owned/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/bmw-e30-crashed-into-house-by-r3v-forum-troll-then-gets-owned/#comments

Ahh, the internet. The greatest of inventions at times, but often the lowest common denominator presented for the world to see. And even when you think your actions will fade away (or get deleted) they surface in caches, screen caps and video downloaders everywhere. Post it, and it's up for all to mock, delete it and it will get even uglier. Such is the case with an R3Vlimted.com forum troll who decided to post his version of a single car accident entitled "crashed my E30 like a tool" for fellow forum members.

R3V forum troll, 'GMOTE' from the Atlanta, GA area posted some pics of his destroyed BMW 325i. The early diving board equipped E30 might have been in decent condition for a car that is over 25 years old, but this E30 is definitely now a parts car (bonus for us E30 owners). GMOTE's version of the story has since been deleted and all of his attempts to redeem himself are ghost too. But apparently it went something like this, he was driving down the street, hit a speed bump that he didn't see, which "poped" both his front tires. He then veered right, took out a mailbox, bounced off a boulder, then crashed into a house destroying a bay window.

Since he played it all wrong, the internet decided to play him and R3V members proceeded to torch the kid. They mocked his story claiming he was doing well over 50 mph (80 km/h) with elaborate reenactments, went on a hunt for police reports and even raided his online dating profile, which has also been deleted. We can't say, the kid didn't deserve it, forum boards will get hot if you're acting ridiculous and try to defend dangerous and/or illegal actions.

There is no shortage of reckless driving out there and if you want to see how this BMW driver got mega-flamed, all 60 pages worth are located here. But let's not forget some other high profile house crashing, like "drifting" an E30 into a pole, the Skyline GT-R from Holland or the Audi TT in the UK! And the Cadillac CTS that just likes to jump on roofs!

Continue reading BMW E30 crashed into house by R3VLimited.com forum troll, then gets owned

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BMW E30 crashed into house by R3VLimited.com forum troll, then gets owned originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Every once in a while drivers need sobering reminders that dangerous driving can lead to injury, death and change lives forever. Beyond that, the financial impact of insurance claims, criminal charges or losing your licence can linger for years, so it's best to keep your eyes on the road and be prepared for anything. One driver in Marion County, TN has learned one such lesson after making a critical mistake at one very inappropriate time while a funeral procession was passing... for a car accident victim!

The near fatal crash occurred when motorists were observing an unwritten Southern US rule to stop while a motorcade of funeral procession cars passes. Out of respect, motorists in Tennessee do this voluntarily but are required to proceed as normal under the law.

Motorcyclist Cody Vice caught it all on his helmet cam that happened to still be rolling while he pulled over to observe the passing hearse and funeral cars.

"All of a sudden these tires, you know, screeching, and then a big collision. It scared me. That had to be one of the scariest moments that I've ever had riding," Vice said to local station WRCB 3 Chattanooga.

Watch a Dodge Dakota slam a Nissan Altima missing Vince and several other riders all caught on video after the jump.


Gallery: Top 25 Strangest Crashes

Continue reading Funeral procession for car crash victim causes serious accident

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Funeral procession for car crash victim causes serious accident originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car accidentcar crashcareless drivingcrash fatalitycrash victimdangerous drivingfatal crashfuneral crashGoProreckless drivingFri, 26 Apr 2013 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Underage BC driver gets caught speeding 175 km/h after visiting girlfriend]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/underage-bc-driver-gets-caught-speeding-175-km-h-after-visting-g/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/underage-bc-driver-gets-caught-speeding-175-km-h-after-visting-g/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/underage-bc-driver-gets-caught-speeding-175-km-h-after-visting-g/#comments

Sure lots of us have silly stories that are prompted by being both young and stupid. During the teen years, the hormones are raging and tend to make most of decisions for us. While most of us make it out unscathed, there are some teenagers out there with questionable judgement. A teen in BC is one such troubled kid who took the family car out on a mission, at 175 km/h.

Abbotsford area RCMP intercepted a Cadillac speeding along Highway 1 near Bradner Road, clocked doing 75 km/h over the posted limit. When the performed the traffic stop, they found out the driver was only 15 years-old and obviously had no licence, no insurance and no good reason for his dangerous driving actions. He claimed he was coming back from meeting a girl and wanted to get his Dad's 2008 Cadillac CTS back in the driveway before they woke up. At 2:00 in the morning, officers weren't buying the story and no leniency was given.

The unlicensed driver was slapped with a $759 fine and as for the Cadillac, his parents will be getting it back... in a week. The vehicle was subject to roadside seizure and he'll have some explaining to do to Mom 'n' Dad. And yes this is the very same highway, another driver recently had his vehicle seized for speeding, two days after his licence suspension was lifted!


Gallery: Top 10 Police Chase Videos

Continue reading Underage BC driver gets caught speeding 175 km/h after visiting girlfriend

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Underage BC driver gets caught speeding 175 km/h after visiting girlfriend originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>50 kmh over50 overBC speedingCadillac CTSRCMPspeed racingSpeedingstreet racingunderage driverunlicense driverFri, 26 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Chicago sinkhole opens up, swallows three cars and injures driver]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/chicago-sinkhole-opens-up-and-swallows-three-cars-injures-drive/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/chicago-sinkhole-opens-up-and-swallows-three-cars-injures-drive/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/chicago-sinkhole-opens-up-and-swallows-three-cars-injures-drive/#comments

Sinkholes are no joke and if you listen to some geologists and engineers there are lots of potential disasters lurking underneath the surface of our major cities. Many large urban centres in Canada and the US have been built on unstable ground or have crumbling infrastructure lurking underneath. A suburb of Chicago was affected by a massive sinkhole swallowing three cars and one driver was sent to hospital with injuries.

At approximately 5:00 am in the South Deering area of Chicago's southeast side, motorist Merko Krivokuca was driving his Toyota Tacoma pickup truck when the earth opened up in front of him. Unable to brake in time, his truck went down into the hole. The sinkhole in went from six to 12 metres wide in a matter of seconds, swallowing two other cars. A fourth vehicle, a Dodge Avenger was perched at the edge of the sheer drop.

An area resident was also about to start her drive to work when she noticed her car was one of the ones in the hole. Officials claim that a watermain broke and eroded the earth underneath South Houston Avenue causing the problem. Some of the cities watermains date back to 1915 and recent heavy rain might also have been a factor.

To see the devastation take place, click for video past the jump.


%Gallery-125538

Continue reading Chicago sinkhole opens up, swallows three cars and injures driver

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Chicago sinkhole opens up, swallows three cars and injures driver originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago sinkholedisastermassive sinkholesink holesinkholeThu, 18 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 7]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2013-bmw-activehybrid-7/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2013-bmw-activehybrid-7/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/2013-bmw-activehybrid-7/#commentsOne Less Turbo, Two Less Cylinders, a Lot More Sense



Back when hybrids were confined to dorky design iterations of normal cars, we often wondered when this next level technology would be wrapped in desirable packages. We pondered if the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius might spawn more attractive mainstream designs and filter into other sectors like sport, luxury or both. The idea of driving some left-of-centre appearing hybrid was a turn off for us, but the technology is now becoming commonplace under the sheet metal and now includes all of the accoutrements that discerning buyers expect - enter the 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 7.

While a car like the Lexus LS600hL might have been ground breaking years ago, the fuel-miser luxury car niche is becoming a crowded one. All of the big German luxury sedans are looking to keep themselves relevant by going with the trend to trim fuel costs and reduce carbon footprint. The 7-series is no exception since it comes in diesel form over in Europe and the spectacular V12 will likely be cut only to add the turbo six to the bottom of the line. This, BMW hopes is going to add to their bottom line and the ActiveHybrid 7 aims to nail all of the touch points with today's affluent, yet environmentally conscious buyer, an individual that never existed before in decades past.

One of the hang-ups we have with hybrids are their campy attempts at attracting attention to the fact they are world-saving hybrids. Do we really need all of the badging, unusual wheels, fancy bodywork, electric blue everything and in the case of GM Hybrid SUVs; nice pieces of hybrid flare on the exterior? We don't find it all that important to broadcast, and BMW has given the ActiveHybrids a relatively subtle approach. Yes, there are unique wheels (although we ran the winter tire package) but at least no ridiculous colours or windshield banners. Finished in Mineral White Metallic, the ActiveHybrid 7 blended in well since saving the planet doesn't always have to mean driving a rolling billboard.

Continue reading 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 7

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2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 77 series7 series photos7 series review7eractivehybridactivehybrid 7activehybrid 7 pricingbmwbmw 7bmw 7 serieshybridreviewFri, 12 Apr 2013 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Ferrari F50 supercars get hooned at the hands of Tax the Rich in UK]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ferrari-f50-supercars-get-hooned-at-the-hands-of-lords-in-uk/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ferrari-f50-supercars-get-hooned-at-the-hands-of-lords-in-uk/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ferrari-f50-supercars-get-hooned-at-the-hands-of-lords-in-uk/#comments

Full disclosure we've never really liked the Ferrari F50. As the successor to the F40, it just didn't have the raw race appeal of the previous car. We fantasized about mashing the go-pedal on the twin turbo V8, not so much the NA V12 of the F50. Then of course, there was the styling of this limited production Ferrari, totaling only 349. It just always had this awkward 90's approach to aesthetics and that is why seeing them hooned, abused and a tug-o-war on video just doesn't hurt as deep.

Tax the Rich is back. We've shown you them punishing a Phantom and getting their rally-on with the wrong car, a Ferrari Enzo. But here we see two of 349 Ferrari F50s tearing up the damp UK countryside and ending up at a large estate for a 24-cylinder showdown. What happens there may cause some Tifosi to look away in horror, or at least be very confused as to why anyone would do this to such rare machinery.

Tax the Rich videos are excess at its finest. We applaud them for at least using the cars, when most collectors just want to keep them in hermetically sealed chambers and brag to other rich guys that they have acquired them.

To watch the F50 hazing video, click here.

Gallery: Lee Iacocca's Ferrari F40 Photos

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Ferrari F50 supercars get hooned at the hands of Tax the Rich in UK originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burn outburn-outburnoutdriftF50FerrariFerrari F50hoonhooningrallysmoking tiressuper carsuper carssupercarsupercarstax the richtaxtherichtire smokeWed, 10 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Drifting accident causes Nissan 240SX to cough up a coil spring]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/drifting-accident-causes-nissan-240sx-to-cough-up-a-spring/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/drifting-accident-causes-nissan-240sx-to-cough-up-a-spring/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/drifting-accident-causes-nissan-240sx-to-cough-up-a-spring/#comments

We've seen more drifting accidents than we care to count as the motorsport has gained traction here over the last 11 years. Everything from high-dollar Formula D and D1 cars to budget backyard bashers have been balled up at tracks and parking lots across North America. But it seems, some wannabe drifters still don't get the technique.

Sure you got your slammed Nissan S13 hatch and all the requisite drift parts but over a decade later, are the street drifters really any better? Judging by this video we uncovered here, not really. Drifters clearly still need lots of work because this Nissan 240SX is set up all wrong, and even if the understeer is due to something unforeseen, at least have the reflexes to clutch-kick that mule before hitting the curb.

What happens after the impact, caused us to spring into the air with laughter. Yes, you have to start somewhere, but we're thinking this mad tyte drift0r probably should have had more practice in an open lot without all those menacing curbs.

Click here to see another 240 bite it and try to look hardcore after coughing up parts.


Gallery: Drift Mania Car Crash Gallery

Continue reading Drifting accident causes Nissan 240SX to cough up a coil spring

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Drifting accident causes Nissan 240SX to cough up a coil spring originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240SXcar crashdriftingdrifting crashnissannissan 240SXS13Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[STP Taisan Nissan Skyline GT-R classic Group A Touring car up for sale]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/stp-taisan-nissan-skyline-gt-r-classic-group-a-touring-car-up-fo/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/stp-taisan-nissan-skyline-gt-r-classic-group-a-touring-car-up-fo/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/stp-taisan-nissan-skyline-gt-r-classic-group-a-touring-car-up-fo/#comments

Any Japanese car fan will tell you that the Nissan Skyline GT-R is amongst their all time favourites. And even if they aren't fans, they still respect the legendary Nissan for what it did on the streets and in motorsports. As the most winning Touring car of all time, R32 Skyline GT-Rs were on top of the podium in Japan Touring Car Championships (JTCC, now Super GT) for 29 consecutive races... spanning four years straight. The Group A cars caused a lot of trouble and as a result were restricted to the point where they couldn't maintain their dominance and by the time the R33 chassis showed up, the rest of the manufacturers had developed more competitive products.

We recently reported about a media outlet having seat time in the most famous GT-R of all time, the Calsonic car from 1990. While this was a Skyline aficionados treat, we've uncovered something else for the Nissan faithful, the STP Advan Group A race car is now up for sale. The first chassis to roll off the line, seeing the VIN plate read: BNR32-91-001 makes us swoon. The STP Advan GT-R was driven by Keiichi Tsuchiya for team Taisan between 1991-1993. Famous for his drifting antics here in North America, "Drift King" Keiichi was a contender on the track earning 3rd place on the podium and 5th overall back in 1991.

With 600ps (about 592 hp and a possible 650 at 23.5psi) the Group A GT-R was a weapon tipping the scales at 1,260kg (2,772-pounds). While it might not have had a weight advantage, it did have a technology advantage with ATTESA intelligent AWD operating as rear-wheel drive until the wheels slipped sending torque to the front. And just like the production cars, the STP Taisan GT-R had razor sharp all-wheel steering.

Click past the jump for details on the sale of this Japanese racing legend.


Gallery: Tokyo Auto Salon 2013

Continue reading STP Taisan Nissan Skyline GT-R classic Group A Touring car up for sale

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STP Taisan Nissan Skyline GT-R classic Group A Touring car up for sale originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Drift KingGTRJapan Touring Car ChampionshipsJGTCJTCCKeiichi TsuchiyaNissannissan skylineNissan Skyline GT-RSkylineSuper GTWed, 03 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Jesse James marries drag racer / billionaire heiress Alexis DeJoria (w/video)]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/jesse-james-marries-drag-racer-billionaire-heiress-alexis-dejo/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/jesse-james-marries-drag-racer-billionaire-heiress-alexis-dejo/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/jesse-james-marries-drag-racer-billionaire-heiress-alexis-dejo/#comments

Although we shy away from the tabloid linkbait posts, this story was just too much to pass up. Regardless of what Jesse James did to ruin his marriage with actress Sandra Bullock, he's a brilliant fabricator and an amazing guy to hang out with. His old Discovery Channel show, Monster Garage was a program we still miss to this day. James' West Coast Chopper builds are legendary, his car collection is stunning and at one point even included a Plymouth Cuda 440 6-pack in lime green; we saw him buy it right beside us in Toronto way back in '04.

After his very public affairs to various ladies including pin-up Dita Von Tease, and relationship with tattoo artist Kat Von D, we're sure he's ready to settle down a bit. Awe, who are we kidding, he's a crazy gearhead but it seems he might have met his match this time. His fourth wife is Alexis DeJoria who is not only a drag racer chick, but a Nitro Funny Car drag racer at that. Her Patron Toyota pushes over 10,000 hp and runs 4.032-seconds in the quarter mile at over 319 mph (510 km/h) at the traps. She bagged her first win of the season at the opening event in Gainesville, FL and has even started her own race team in the past.

How did this 35 year old lady accomplish all this? Well, being an heiress to a multi-billion dollar fortune certainly helps... a lot. Her father is John Paul DeJoria, of Paul Mitchell salon products fame and she basically has access to seemingly unlimited funds. After knowing each other a grand total of seven months, Jesse James had definitely met a lady with all of the checklist of points he's looking for in a (fourth) wife.

Did we mention she is all tatt'ed up too? We're sure the full back spread of a dragon certainly wasn't a deal breaker for James who has 'Pay up Sucka' tattooed on the palm of his hand.

Scroll down to watch a video recap of their new-found love and congrats you crazy kids.

Gallery: Toyota DragQuoia: SEMA 2012

Continue reading Jesse James marries drag racer / billionaire heiress Alexis DeJoria (w/video)

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Jesse James marries drag racer / billionaire heiress Alexis DeJoria (w/video) originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alexis DeJoriachopperchopperscustom bikesDita Von Teasedrag racedrag racerdrag racingfemale racerfunny carGainesvilleJesse JamesJohn Paul DeJoriaMonster GaragemotorcycleNHRAPaul MitchellPaul Mitchell salonracerracingSandra Bullockwest coastwest coast chopperWed, 27 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Suzuki to stop selling cars in Canada after filing bankruptcy in US last year]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/suzuki-to-cease-operations-in-canada-after-filing-chapter-11-in/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/suzuki-to-cease-operations-in-canada-after-filing-chapter-11-in/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/suzuki-to-cease-operations-in-canada-after-filing-chapter-11-in/#comments

As of today, Suzuki Canada Inc. (SCI) has announced they will no longer be selling automobiles after the 2014 model year. While this might not come as a shock since American Suzuki Motor Corporation declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US back in November, we were assured Canadian operations would not cease.

Suzuki Canada had some periods of success in this country since 1973 (started selling cars in 1980) but more recently their marketshare dwindled in the SUV and hatchback market and is virtually non-existent for the Kizashi sedan. SCI will continue to honour warranties as well as provide parts and service for their vehicles sold in the future and those still on the road. Owners can obtain warranty and dealer updates on the Suzuki Canada site.

SCI is planning to focus the business on it's highly successful motorcycle, power sports and marine divisions. So rest assured your GSX-R or Hayabusa needs will still be met.

We'd like to take a moment and pay homage Suzuki's first offerings here, the quirky LJ80 and later the SJ410 and Samurai. When it came to 4x4 fun, reliability and a real personality, one didn't have to look much further than these underpowered tin cans. Thanks for the memories and yes those are my old '88 JX and '87 JX Longbody pictured above circa 1994.

Gallery: Suzuki SX4

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Suzuki to stop selling cars in Canada after filing bankruptcy in US last year originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>suzuki bankruptcysuzuki canadasuzuki samuraiTue, 26 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Zombie Apocalypse Survival Vehicle is loads of right hand drive weirdness]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/zombie-apocalypse-survival-vehicle-is-loads-of-right-hand-drive/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/zombie-apocalypse-survival-vehicle-is-loads-of-right-hand-drive/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/26/zombie-apocalypse-survival-vehicle-is-loads-of-right-hand-drive/#comments

As a right hand drive vehicle owner, there is no shortage of public interest during my eight years in the club. Heck even if a JDM vehicle is bone stock, as long as you're sitting on the "right" side then you'll get attention of all kinds. But then you see an oddball creation like we've stumbled upon at Kijiji and well, that attention level goes off the charts.

The Zombie Disposal Vehicle you see here is actually a Japanese-spec Suzuki Carry. Every Japanese manufacturer offers these micro Kei cars whether for passengers or cargo and in this application, a bit of both considering there is already three live undead zombies in the back.

Used as a promo truck in Guelph, Ontario the owner is looking to move this custom zombie hauler. With a 50hp 3-cylinder motor, it isn't an ideal vehicle to take on Canadian highways since it only has top speed of 90 km/h making it not for everyone. But it does generate plenty of hype for those trying to promote a business, although we're not sure the cops will be cool with the 50mm Gatling gun mounted to the roof or the cache of weapons on the back even if they are just for show.

Click here for a full description and sale price.


Gallery: Top 10 Strangest Cars Ever Made

10) Amphibian Motorcar9) Toyota Land Glider 8) Locomotive Car7) Peel P50 6) UK Custom

Continue reading Zombie Apocalypse Survival Vehicle is loads of right hand drive weirdness

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Zombie Apocalypse Survival Vehicle is loads of right hand drive weirdness originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>suzukisuzuki carryzombie-apocalypsezombiesTue, 26 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Monster machine crushing boss' Benz may be staged but still full of win]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/monster-machine-crushing-bosses-benz-may-be-staged-but-still-ful/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/monster-machine-crushing-bosses-benz-may-be-staged-but-still-ful/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/25/monster-machine-crushing-bosses-benz-may-be-staged-but-still-ful/#comments

While the Autoblog Canada workplace may be full of shiny, happy people doing what they love every day, we know that some jobs can be a real grind. We have all had a job that we can't stand and hope that our rapid-fire blog updates take the edge off while you're on the clock. There are many jobs out there that make gouging your eyes our sound far more stimulating and quite often, the management style of the boss is to blame.

While, we don't condone any sort of revenge like we see here, this video might not be far off reality. When you mess with people's livelihoods, they might be infuriated to point of lashing out. Workplace conflict might result in a fist fight, damaged property or in extreme cases guns may be pulled. In this scenario a "boss" is being "interviewed" while a disgruntled worker gets a little nuts and attacks his Mercedes-Benz CLK with menacing heavy equipment in the background.

While the car crushing is real and we do give some bonus points for the Benz electrical system and alarm for surviving, the fake news report is obviously staged but still full of all kinds of win.

Gallery: Northern Nightmare monster truck reveal

Continue reading Monster machine crushing boss' Benz may be staged but still full of win

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Monster machine crushing boss' Benz may be staged but still full of win originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benz crashcar crushingmonster jammonster truckroad rageworkplace rageMon, 25 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Megaspeed 2013 highlighted by Ken Block, Chip Foose and several George Barris creations.]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/23/megaspeed-2013-highlighted-by-ken-block-chip-foose-and-several/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/23/megaspeed-2013-highlighted-by-ken-block-chip-foose-and-several/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/23/megaspeed-2013-highlighted-by-ken-block-chip-foose-and-several/#comments

All around Ontario, Quebec and even across the border, many custom car enthusiasts flock to the MegaSpeed show in Toronto to mark to official kickoff to the driving season. Rides that have been stored away for months protected from the snow, are finally unveiled, waxed up and shipped off to the International Centre near Toronto's Pearson Airport. Aside from all the great Canadian rolling hardware, many feature cars are shipped up from the US to draw even more crowds.

Known as Performance World in the past, the show continues on with the new owners under the new name but with the same great formula. Loads of local show cars, feature cars you might have to go to SEMA to see otherwise and all kinds of activities and entertainment to keep people occupied. For many of us in the car scene, it is also a great place to catch up with friends all in one spot. We find ourselves doing a lot more gabbing than gawking but then again we're spoiled, so we do our best to bring the show experience to our readers.

For 2013, George Barris creations dominated the featured headliners with the Turbo Sonic Drag Car and the Supervan. These bizarre 60's creations are like opening a time capsule and it's unreal to view them in such pristine shape so many decades later. Chip Foose is also in attendance for meet and greets for his fans to provide some inspiration for their own projects.

For the younger crowd, they get Ford Fiesta's, well not just an average Fiesta but Ken Block's 600 hp AWD Gymkhana rally monster. For the drifting world, Megaspeed also featured the NOS Nissan 370Z of former Formula D champion, Chris Forsberg. Beyond the wealth of eye candy, you find some true-to-life anomalies like a daily-driven Batmobile, complete with the Dark Knight himself in full regalia.

Headed to Megaspeed this weekend? Or just wanted to check out everything the show has to offer? No worries, Autoblog Canada has you covered with a massive gallery to scratch that itch.

Gallery: Megaspeed 2012

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Megaspeed 2013 highlighted by Ken Block, Chip Foose and several George Barris creations. originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 23 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batmobilechip foosechris forsberggeorge barrisgoldberginternational centreken blockmegaspeedmegaspeed 2013performance worldSat, 23 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST