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[Motorsport: SRT Viper ready for Le Mans after 10-year absence [w/video]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/srt-viper-ready-for-le-mans-after-10-year-absence-w-video/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/srt-viper-ready-for-le-mans-after-10-year-absence-w-video/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/srt-viper-ready-for-le-mans-after-10-year-absence-w-video/#comments

The Viper will once again roar down the storied Mulsanne straight, as SRT is returning to the famed French race with two identically prepared GTS-R race cars set to compete at Le Mans later this month. Enthusiasts have been waiting a long time for a repeat appearance of the ten-cylinder coupes, which haven't raced since winning the GTS class three times from 1998 to 2000. Ralph Gilles, president and chief executive officer of the SRT brand and motorsports, told Autoweek, "Le Mans is a world stage. The GTS-R has enjoyed great success at Le Mans in the past, and we're excited to start a new chapter of Viper racing at that historic venue."

Understandably, the rules at Le Mans have changed over the past decade and the automaker will be racing a new vehicle. Gary Johnson, SRT racing manager, told the publication, "Our plan is to be as competitive as we can and see what happens at the end."

The new GTS-R shouldn't have trouble running against its competitors in the LM GTE Pro Class, as its chassis has proven itself several times since its American Le Mans Series (ALMS) debut last August. This year alone, the No. 91 Viper has finished in the top five in all three races it has entered. "We're going with the same commitment to do our best," said Johnson.

To learn more about SRT's race efforts, check out its new web series called Beyond the Checkered Flag. We've linked to the first video below along with the official press release.

Gallery: SRT Viper GTS-R ALMS debut at Mid-Ohio

Continue reading SRT Viper ready for Le Mans after 10-year absence [w/video]

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SRT Viper ready for Le Mans after 10-year absence [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>le manssrtsrt vipersrt viper gts-rviper gts-rviper videoMon, 17 Jun 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive: An inside look at Rhys Millen's new Pikes Peak Unlimited racer [w/video]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/an-inside-look-at-rhys-millens-new-pikes-peak-unlimited-racer/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/an-inside-look-at-rhys-millens-new-pikes-peak-unlimited-racer/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/17/an-inside-look-at-rhys-millens-new-pikes-peak-unlimited-racer/#commentsWider, Lower And Decidedly More Sinister

Hyundai Genesis RMR PM580-T

Rhys Millen was sitting on a cooler whittling away at a piece of aluminum when I first arrived at the expansive skidpad at the California Proving Grounds, owned by Hyundai, located in a desolate part of the California desert about 20 kilometres (around a dozen miles) east of Mojave. By the time I had walked over to the accomplished driver for introductions, he had picked up a piece of sandpaper and begun to arduously file away at the alloy's rough edges, smoothing them masterfully.

He was focused on the job, but I politely interrupted him and asked what he was making. Ryhs looked up, smiled, and then grabbed a few zip-ties and asked me to come over to the new Hyundai RMR PM580-T, destined for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in just two short weeks, raised on its air jacks just a few yards away.

Continue reading An inside look at Rhys Millen's new Pikes Peak Unlimited racer [w/video]

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An inside look at Rhys Millen's new Pikes Peak Unlimited racer [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai genesis coupehyundai race carpikes peakpikes peak 2013pikes peak international hill cimbpm580-trhys millenMon, 17 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Hyundai planning EV for North American market]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/hyundai-planning-ev-for-north-american-market/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/hyundai-planning-ev-for-north-american-market/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/16/hyundai-planning-ev-for-north-american-market/#comments

North America's ever increasingly stringent automotive emissions mandates, which require that all automakers include some form of Zero-Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) in the lineup, may be forcing the hand of Hyundai, suggests The Detroit Bureau after a recent tweet from John Krafcik, HMA Chief Executive. Up until now, the Korean automaker has been attempting to meet future regulations with fuel-cell vehicles like the modified ix35/Tuscon models (the technology uses hydrogen to generate electricity), but consumers have been slow to warm to hydrogen citing an immature and undeveloped refueling infrastructure.

While battery-powered EVs are far from perfect, they appeal to consumers who have short commutes and owners who find it convenient to recharge at home. If Hyundai were to get into the EV game in short order, one solution could be the BlueOn battery car (shown above) that is sold in the automaker's domestic market. In its current state, the BlueOn offers a 16.4-kWh lithium polymer battery, which provides a range of just over 137 kilometres (85 miles) and a lethargic 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph) time of 13.1 seconds.

To be competitive, Hyundai would have to boost performance or seek another more expensive solution. We'll have to wait for official word, or another tweet from Krafcik, to see which way the company is heading. Click here for highlights from the Hyundai idea festival.

Continue reading Hyundai planning EV for North American market

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Hyundai planning EV for North American market originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 16 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueonehyundaihyundai blueonehyundai evzevSun, 16 Jun 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Audi adding search for parking functionality to all connected models]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/15/audi-adding-search-for-parking-functionality-to-all-connected-mo/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/15/audi-adding-search-for-parking-functionality-to-all-connected-mo/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/15/audi-adding-search-for-parking-functionality-to-all-connected-mo/#comments

To help its customers through the nightmare of finding urban parking spots, Audi has rolled out Inrix Park services as a standard no-cost feature bundled into its subscriber-based Audi Connect services. Accessed through the automaker's MMI navigation system, Inrix provides a way to check space availability, garage hours, compare rates and gauge proximity to more than 18,000 participating parking locations in North America.

"Helping to ease the challenges that Audi drivers face in their daily drives is the core mission of the Audi Connect suite of connected car services," said Filip Brabec, Director of Product Management, Audi of America. "By offering the ability to easily navigate to the best parking spot available for their vehicle, Audi has further simplified and improved the ownership experience."

The technology was announced at the Telematics Detroit 2013 conference this week, with Audi saying the integrated service should be easier to use than a smartphone - we gave it a whirl and it appeared intuitive and quick to respond. Based on the number of Audi models on the road, the automaker estimates that more than 100,000 of its North American customers will be able to use the service with thousands of new owners joining them each month. For more information, check out the full press release below.

Continue reading Audi adding search for parking functionality to all connected models

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Audi adding search for parking functionality to all connected models originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 15 Jun 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi connectaudi mmiaudi parkinginrixinrix parking serviceparkingparking issuesSat, 15 Jun 2013 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Automakers to use scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass in the very near future]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/automakers-to-use-scratch-resistant-gorilla-glass-in-the-very-ne/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/automakers-to-use-scratch-resistant-gorilla-glass-in-the-very-ne/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/automakers-to-use-scratch-resistant-gorilla-glass-in-the-very-ne/#comments

Today's automotive windshields are commonly made with two layers of tempered glass sandwiching a sheet of optically clear polyvinyl butyral (PVB), a plastic layer that holds everything in place even when the glass is broken. While the basic design works very well (credit Henry Ford with introducing laminated glass in 1919), scratches and chips in the glass weaken the material to the point where it may eventually crack and require replacement.

But those headaches may disappear if Corning's Gorilla Glass becomes an industry standard. Gorilla Glass is the registered name for the durable and scratch resistant glass that covers the face of more than 1.5 billion consumer electronic devices. Whether the maker of your iPhone, Android, Windows phone, tablet or PDA admits it or not, chances are good that you've got the material close at hand.

Having a windshield that is scratch and chip resistant is a big improvement, but there are other advantages to Gorilla Glass, says Corning. The company's senior vice president, Jeffrey Evenson, told MIT Technology Review that the glass is lighter than what is used today, and it provides a better acoustic barrier from outside noise.

As is often the case with innovative technologies, Gorilla Glass doesn't come cheap. Even so, Evenson predicts that at least one unnamed high-end automaker will introduce a vehicle with Gorilla Glass within the year. Any guesses on whom it will be?

Continue reading Automakers to use scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass in the very near future

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Automakers to use scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass in the very near future originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotive windshieldcorninggorilla glassgorilla glass windshieldwindshieldThu, 13 Jun 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2013 Hennessey VelociRaptor 600 SUV]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/2013-hennessey-velociraptor-600-suv-review-first-drive/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/2013-hennessey-velociraptor-600-suv-review-first-drive/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/13/2013-hennessey-velociraptor-600-suv-review-first-drive/#commentsRaptor, Excursion, Texas and Hennessey

2013 Hennessey VelociRaptor 600 SUV

Each of those words are synonyms for big and bold - combine all four and you've got one of the largest, most powerful and robust street-going sport utility vehicles in the world.

John Hennessey is a Texas-based tuner known for creating some of the fastest and most capable cars on the planet. Over the past two decades, machines like the Viper Venom 550, Ford GT 1000 Twin Turbo, HPE 700 LS9 Camaro and the almighty Venom GT have emerged from the Hennessey Performance garage. And those are just the celebrated flagships; the company has modified thousands of other street cars including those from Audi, Bentley, Cadillac, Ferrari, Ford, Porsche and Toyota, to name a few.

Now, after tuning countless Ford F-150 SVT Raptor pickups and fielding multiple requests, the company has created something very unique to fill a void in the performance-oriented sport utility segment. It is called the Hennessey VelociRaptor SUV, and we were recently handed the keys to the very first example to hit the pavement.

Continue reading 2013 Hennessey VelociRaptor 600 SUV

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2013 Hennessey VelociRaptor 600 SUV originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>excursionf-150 svt raptorfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivefordhennesseyhennessey velociraptor 600john hennesseyvelociraptor 600velociraptor suvThu, 13 Jun 2013 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2014 GMC Sierra]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/2014-gmc-sierra-review-first-drive/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/2014-gmc-sierra-review-first-drive/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/12/2014-gmc-sierra-review-first-drive/#commentsIs the Best GMC Truck Ever Made Good Enough?

2014 GMC Sierra

We've got a bright aluminum Airstream camper hitched to our rear bumper as we head up Southern California's coast because GMC says that 60 per cent of all full-size pickup owners will use their trucks for towing.

Rather than forcing us to absorb its capabilities in a long-winded PowerPoint presentation, the automaker brought us to Los Angeles and handed us the keys to its all-new 2014 GMC Sierra 1500. After jumping behind the wheel of a 5.3-litre V8 model, we drove up the foggy Malibu coast (locals call the soggy early-summer weather "June Gloom") and made our way to the Camarillo Airport for a towing refresher. Once completed, a brand-new 23-foot Airstream was hitched to our aft end and we were pointed towards a campground just west of Santa Barbara.

The luxury RV would serve as our "glamping" base for the next couple of days and the Sierra would be our transportation as we explored the surrounding coastline. It was a unique look at the automaker's truck, and it offered us plenty of fresh insight for our first drive of the newest GMC.

Continue reading 2014 GMC Sierra

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2014 GMC Sierra originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 12 Jun 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 gmc sierrafeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivegmcgmc sierraWed, 12 Jun 2013 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Lamborghini builds 2,000th Aventador, production rate continues to climb]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/lamborghini-builds-2-000th-aventador-production-rate-continues/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/lamborghini-builds-2-000th-aventador-production-rate-continues/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/lamborghini-builds-2-000th-aventador-production-rate-continues/#comments

Last July, Lamborghini celebrated the assembly of its 1,000th Aventador. That was an impressive milestone for the US$400,000-plus supercar, as its Murciélago predecessor took took nearly three years to accomplish the same feat. But the automaker's biggest and baddest bull has broken another milestone, as the Aventador celebrated its 2,000th vehicle produced last week. The Nero Nemesis (matte black) car rolled off the assembly line on June 6, destined to the garage of Thaddeus Arroyo, who lives in the States.

Originally launched as a closed-roof coupe at the Geneva Motor Show in 2011, the Italians introduced the open-roof LP 700-4 Roadster last fall at the Los Angeles Auto Show before allowing us to drive it in February of this year. Assembled in Sant'Agata Bolognese, Lamborghini's Aventador is currently running at a production rate of nearly five units per day.

Lamborghini has understandably been very pleased with its flagship, and customer demand shows no signs of faltering. According to the automaker, the waiting list for new car is longer than a year. Be sure to check out the press release below.

Continue reading Lamborghini builds 2,000th Aventador, production rate continues to climb

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Lamborghini builds 2,000th Aventador, production rate continues to climb originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2000th lamborghinilamborghinilamborghini aventadorlamborghini productionMon, 10 Jun 2013 09:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Meet Points, the Internet-enabled future of street signs]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/08/meet-points-the-internet-enabled-future-of-street-signs/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/08/meet-points-the-internet-enabled-future-of-street-signs/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/08/meet-points-the-internet-enabled-future-of-street-signs/#commentsPoints digital internet-enabled street sign

After three years of research, Breakfast Products has introduced Points - self-touted as the most advanced sign on earth. While we cannot substantiate that particular claim, the three-arm directional display is an interesting and innovative approach when it comes to delivering information to those within its immediate vicinity.

In a nutshell, Points utilizes an Internet connection to update a five-segment interface menu that is located at user height on its pole. Using digital data (compiled from Twitter, Foursquare, RRS feeds, etc.) and onboard sensors, the motorized directional arms swing to display information about cities, sporting events, transit, etc... all of which is easily read by those nearby (watch the video, and it will all make sense).

Physically speaking, the Points sign is nine feet tall, six feet wide and primarily constructed of lightweight and corrosion-resistant aluminum. Mechanically speaking, the arms utilize micro transmissions (with 11 gears and multiple motors) and rotary electrical interfaces (removing the issue of tangled wires) to smoothly swing 360-degrees around the pole regardless of weather or temperature. Electronically speaking, more than 16,000 LED lights ensure that the displays are bright and readable. Lastly, the processor has been designed to keep its chipset cool and minimize power drain.

We can think of countless applications for Points (airport terminals and car shows would be a perfect fit), assuming it all works as advertised. Larger versions with even more swinging arms would work well for those behind the wheel. Rest assured, this is just the tip of this digital information iceberg. Check out Points by scrolling below to see the video, then head on over to Breakfast Products' website to try it out remotely via Twitter.

Continue reading Meet Points, the Internet-enabled future of street signs

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Meet Points, the Internet-enabled future of street signs originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 08 Jun 2013 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakfast productsdigitaldigital informationdigital signfoursquarepointspoints signroad signsocial mediastreet signtwittervideoSat, 08 Jun 2013 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Toronto man takes matters into his own hands when traffic light breaks at rush hour]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/toronto-man-takes-matters-into-his-own-hands-when-traffic-light/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/toronto-man-takes-matters-into-his-own-hands-when-traffic-light/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/toronto-man-takes-matters-into-his-own-hands-when-traffic-light/#commentsArtur, the 21-year-old impromptu traffic director in Toronto - video screencap

A pedestrian in the middle of a very busy four-way intersection is never a wise idea... apparently unless you are a 21-year-old named Artur. For reasons only described as "broken red light," the young man, wearing nothing more visible than a light blue top, recently stood his ground and braved cars, trucks and buses as he guided everyone safely through a Toronto intersection.

The most surprising part of the video isn't that Artur emerged unscathed (we really didn't expect him to get run over, as there is a small traffic-free area in the middle of every intersection, assuming drivers are paying attention), but rather the amount of authority he is able to project over motorists while keeping the flow of traffic and pedestrians moving safely. We don't know what he does for a living, but there is a job with a reflective vest and a whistle waiting for him if he wants a change of career. In fact, the Good Samaritan won't even have to wait that long for the special vest - a concerned truck driver stops in the middle of the intersection to give him one.

Where were the authorities during all this? You'll have to watch the viral video below and find out.

Gallery: Top 5 - Worst Traffic in North America

4) Montreal, QC3) San Francisco, CA2) Vancouver, BC1) Los Angeles, CA

Continue reading Toronto man takes matters into his own hands when traffic light breaks at rush hour

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Toronto man takes matters into his own hands when traffic light breaks at rush hour originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 07 Jun 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arturdirecting traffictorontotoronto mantoronto traffic lighttraffic safetyvideoviral videoFri, 07 Jun 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: First live photos and impressions of Toyota's 2014 Corolla]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/first-live-photos-and-impressions-of-toyotas-2014-corolla/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/first-live-photos-and-impressions-of-toyotas-2014-corolla/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/07/first-live-photos-and-impressions-of-toyotas-2014-corolla/#comments
After releasing official pictures and a press release about an hour earlier, Toyota chose an aircraft hanger at the Santa Monica airport as the venue for the global introduction of its highly anticipated 2014 Corolla. Following an extended aerial acrobat show, which included performers running along the walls, swimmers romping in a massive overhead clear plastic pool and angry dancers destroying their cardboard stage in a glittery fit... the all-new C-segment star of the show was lowered on cables from the ceiling. (After the strobe lights and pounding sound that preceded it, the final vehicle reveal was almost anticlimactic.)

Face-to-face with the eleventh-generation sedan, we liked what we saw. Compared to last year's Corolla, the new model appears smaller in person - yet that is mostly an optical illusion. By the tape, it is 102 mm (four inches) longer and slightly wider than its predecessor, but a bit shorter. The wheelbase has been stretched nearly 102 mm (four inches), yet the front and rear overhangs only give or take about an inch in the conversion. With the exception of the enormous wheel/fender gap (the new Corolla seems to ride too high), its overall proportions are very pleasing.

The fresh styling is modern and stylish, with sculpted lines that add character to a formerly bland sedan


The fresh styling is modern and stylish, with sculpted lines that add character to a formerly bland sedan (inexpensive does not have to mean boring). Thankfully, the new car lacks any tacked-on lower cladding to detract from its shape, and the sleek new LED headlights have allowed the designers to abandon the bulbous look of its predecessor's front illumination. The rear bumper appears to have been shaped in the wind tunnel, with much sharper corners than the outgoing sedan and the tail lamps are now cleanly integrated into the quarter panels and trunk lid.

Inside the cabin, the Corolla has definitely matured and gained a premium feel - especially in the higher trim levels. We welcome the increased seat travel, Lexus styling cues and new technology, but we'd still like to see more compartment space in the center console area for phones and other electronic devices, and fewer buttons.

After our brief introduction, we can't help but feel that the all-new 2014 Toyota Corolla is a worthy successor - albeit visually. Yet based on its published mechanical specifications (we've reprinted the full press release below), we can't wait to get behind the wheel to determine if it drives as well as it appears.

Gallery: 2014 Toyota Corolla






Continue reading First live photos and impressions of Toyota's 2014 Corolla

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First live photos and impressions of Toyota's 2014 Corolla originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 07 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 toyota corollalive gallerylive revealtoyotatoyota corollaFri, 07 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Radical 2016 Jeep Wrangler suggested by job listings?]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/radical-2016-jeep-wrangler-suggested-by-job-listings/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/radical-2016-jeep-wrangler-suggested-by-job-listings/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/01/radical-2016-jeep-wrangler-suggested-by-job-listings/#commentsJeep Stitch concept truck - front three-quarter view

With most inside the industry expecting the next-generation Jeep Wrangler to arrive for the 2016 model year, it makes sense that the automaker would be looking for some choice candidates to to fill program openings as the off-roader goes through its development. A recent ad on Chryslercareers.com suggests to some that the lightweight Wrangler Stitch Concept, revealed just two months ago and shown above, provides some clues about the off-road icon's next iteration.

According to Automotive News, the job descriptions - which don't name the model specifically - hint that the next-generation Wrangler will benefit from a serious diet. The ads appear to seek those familiar with advanced high-strength steels, hinting that lightweight aluminum body panels may appear on the 4x4. In addition, there are suggestions that Jeep may fit the Wrangler replacement with air suspension, as seen on the Ram and Grand Cherokee, to retain ample off-road clearance yet lower that chassis to improve aerodynamics at highway speeds. The job postings reportedly also lend credence to the idea of a diesel Wrangler.

It seems every bit of the next-generation Wrangler is up for review, as it will be the first time this iconic model is redesigned under Fiat ownership. Questions remain whether or not the Jeep will retain its clip-down hood, easy-to-remove door pins and folding front windshield - loyalists expect them, but fuel economy and safety standards may crimp their cases for survival.

Click here to see this Jeep in motion for yourself in the video below.

Continue reading Radical 2016 Jeep Wrangler suggested by job listings?

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Radical 2016 Jeep Wrangler suggested by job listings? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 01 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2016 jeep wranglerjeepjeep stitchjeep wranglerjeep wrangler stitchwrangler stitchSat, 01 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick Spin: 2013 Shelby GT350]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/2013-shelby-gt350-quick-spin-review/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/2013-shelby-gt350-quick-spin-review/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/31/2013-shelby-gt350-quick-spin-review/#comments2013 Shelby GT350 - front three-quarter view
Shelby is a name as synonymous with the Ford Mustang as marshmallows are with campfires. But unlike the short-lived sugary confection that is prepared on a stick, the late Carroll Shelby's name on the placard means added performance and exclusivity. Launched in 1965, the automaker's celebrated early cars were in production for a limited run - today, a mint concours-quality 1965 Shelby GT350 can sell for upwards of $350,000.

To coincide with the 45th anniversary of the original Shelby GT350, Shelby American reintroduced the GT350 in 2011. Like the original, it was only offered in white with blue stripes. Customers were offered a choice between naturally aspirated (440 horsepower) and two levels of supercharging (525 horsepower with a warranty or 624 horsepower without). The manufacturer calls the GT350 a "post-title" package, a term that means it starts out life as a stock Mustang and is modified outside Ford's factory (this is in contrast to the Shelby GT500, which is a standard Ford production car).

As the GT350 enters its third year, Shelby has made several changes. Mechanically, Wilwood brakes replace Baer units and Recaro seats and a tinted glass roof are on the options list. Cosmetically, the vehicle is now offered in most of the Blue Oval's factory colours, new multispoke wheels are available in Satin Black or Bright Silver Metallic finish, and customers can choose between Satin Black, Silver or Gloss White stripes (or Azure Blue Metallic on Performance White or Ingot Silver). Aesthetically, the look of the car has also changed somewhat - keen eyes will note that it actually appears more 'stock' than it did last year.

This particular heavily optioned test car started as a 2013 Mustang GT Premium (All GT's sold by Ford in Canada are equivalent to the US's "Premium" package) with a six-speed manual gearbox (CAD$40,090 with taxes and delivery) and Gotta Have it Green paint (CAD$400). The Shelby GT350 Package (US$26,995) and a variety of other options followed. These included leather Recaro seats ($US1,595), polished Ford Racing Supercharger - boosting power to 624 horsepower (US$8,500), Shelby/Wilwood multi-piston brake upgrade (US$2,995), Shelby High Performance Cooling Package (US$2,995), Billet Watts Link rear suspension (US$1,995) and an OEM Shelby GT500 rear spoiler (US$599). While a base no-option Shelby GT350 can be had for US$58,540, the as-tested price of our green coupe totaled a rather startling US$81,714. For potential Canadian owners, you can purchase a Shelby GT350 from Shelby directly and bring it back over the border.

Driving Notes
  • I didn't waste any time gawking at the GT350's aggressive front splitter, substantial functional hood scoop or massive wheel and tire package. Instead, I jumped into the comfortable Recaro seats, inserted the key and cranked over the 624-horsepower engine. A heartbeat later, the 5.0-litre V8 spun to life with a throaty roar out its twin Borla exhaust pipes. The engine idled with an excitement the standard GT could never match match, and once underway, a stab on the accelerator quickly extinguished all doubts - this Shelby is bloody quick. Under the right conditions (limiting wheelspin is the greatest obstacle), this green beast will effortlessly crack the 60 mph benchmark in under four seconds. Few public roads can tolerate its top speed.
  • The short-throw shifter proved heavy and mechanical in action, taking a bit of practice to master, but it never felt clunky or not up to the task. Once in gear, throttle response (listen for the telltale supercharger whine) was quick. First gear felt too short for my tastes, and I consistently had traction issues. Third gear was the sweet spot, with the Shelby offering enough torque to pull from just about anywhere on its tachometer.
  • Few would call any Mustang small and nimble, but the GT350 breaks the stereotype. Once familiar with the coupe's corners (rearward visibility being the most limited), I was able to push the Shelby surprisingly hard in the California's legendary canyons. Hunkered down on its tuned suspension with four sticky contact patches, the Shelby had me relishing each and every corner. Turn-in was good, mid-corner feel was stable and the brakes were always up to the task. This two-door still felt big from behind the wheel, but each of its physical reactions to control inputs told another story - one of sharpness and agility.
  • If forced to list good and bad attributes, I'd lodge complaints against the mostly stock Mustang interior (when the price climbs this high, it's hard not to expect more) and tacked-on A-pillar gauges, which felt cheap. Yet I would applaud the engine's power, exhaust note, suspension tuning and handling.
  • The more I thought about it, the clearer it became that the 2013 Shelby GT350 is probably the best Ford Mustang I have ever driven. And, even with a price that more than doubles its donor's cost, history's fondness for Shelby models may someday prove that this car is a worthwhile investment, too. I'll take mine in Ruby Red.

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2013 Shelby GT350 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 31 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford mustang2013 shelby gt350carroll shelbyfordford mustanggt350quick spinquickspinshelbyshelby americanshelby mustangFri, 31 May 2013 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick Spin: 2013 Dinan S3 BMW 550i]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/2013-dinan-s3-bmw-550i/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/2013-dinan-s3-bmw-550i/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/30/2013-dinan-s3-bmw-550i/#comments
Steve Dinan has been enhancing BMW models since 1979. But don't throw his company into the ring with the dozen or so other tuners who tweak, tinker and piggyback upgrades on the famed German marque. Dinan is a tuner, but it's also an engineering firm that writes its own software, builds its own parts and then backs everything it does with a factory-grade warranty. That sort of fastidiousness comes at a price, but most of its customers - including the powerhouse of BMW Motorsport - rely on Dinan to help them come out on top.

In stock form, BMW's 550i is a formidable four-door with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 rated at 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. While those figures allow it to run with quick company (0-60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.0 seconds, according to the automaker), Dinan puts the sedan's kettle on full boil with its S3 package. Starting with the engine, the performance engineering firm bolts on larger turbochargers, air-to-water intercoolers, a trick strut tower brace cold air intake, a quad-pipe free flow exhaust and its own engine management software. Pump in some premium fuel, and the result is 542 horsepower and 587 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent through the stock eight-speed automatic to a limited slip rear differential (Dinan will upgrade xDrive all-wheel drive models, too).

The Dinan S3 also features and extensive suspension upgrade that includes new front camber arms and low compliance rear control arms (engineered to reduce understeer and improve turn-in). The stock dampers are retained, but new bump stops are installed along with new springs. Overall, the car rides about a half-inch lower than stock to improve roll rate. To reduce unsprung weight, forged 20-inch HRE Performance wheels are fitted at all four corners (wearing Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires - 275/35ZR20 up front and 295/35ZR20 in the rear). Lastly, the company remaps the factory Electronic Damper Control (EDC) software with its own Dinan Shockware to work in conjunction with the new enhancements.

The base price of the 2013 BMW 550i is CAD$75,900. Add roughly another CAD$40,000 for the full complement of Dinan upgrades on our test vehicle, and the BMW Performance carbon fibre body components. Expensive, but withhold your judgement until after you've stepped on the accelerator pedal.

Driving Notes:
  • Without a doubt, the Dinan engine package is the most seamless aftermarket upgrade I have ever experienced. The impressive increase in power is velvety smooth and natural in its delivery, devoid of the negative characteristics (hiccups, peaks and flat spots) that are common to most other tuned vehicles. The 550i lacks launch control, so the twin-turbo S3 requires a delicate right foot, or the rear tires quickly liquefy. Drive it properly, with a light touch followed by heavy throttle a few feet off the line, and the sedan takes off like a missile - quickly embossing your spine into the leather seatback. The smooth ZF eight-speed shifts with authority, yet without any of the harshness normally found with a dual-clutch. Dinan doesn't publish acceleration figures, but my tuned derrière dyno says it slices upwards of a second off BMW's published 550i time to 60 mph (96 km/h)... and it runs unrestricted to over 305 km/h (190 mph).
  • Dinan touts its S3 550i as "a more luxurious version of the M5" with softer shocks and active roll control that give its car the edge when it comes to ride quality. They aren't fibbing, as the enhanced 5 Series provides a very comfortable ride when the EDC is set in Comfort, and sharp response when configured in Sport and Sport Plus. There is less understeer, thanks to the new camber and control arms, and nothing seemed to unsettle the chassis. The stock adaptive suspension worked seamlessly with the physical and software upgrades - the wide range of suspension settings was impressive.
  • If asked what I didn't like about the augmented 5 Series, I'd have to mention the steering. Three years ago, when I reviewed the BMW 550i, I commended the steering's accuracy but complained about its numbness and isolation. That said, Dinan doesn't touch the electric steering, so don't expect it to be improved. Again, this is more of a wish for improvement than a deal breaker.
  • Dinan's superb S3 BMW 550i obviously competes nearly directly with the factory's own flagship M5. In terms of power output, the Dinan feels every bit as burly as the 2013 M5 (keep in mind that BMW boosted performance of its M5 for the 2014 model year with the optional Competition Package), but its personality is softer and bit more tame - less high strung would be another good description. Both are excellent examples of the 5 Series. However, if asked which one I prefer, I'd select the hardened M5 for competitive track events but choose the polished Dinan as my daily driver. Where do you spend more of your time?

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2013 Dinan S3 BMW 550i originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 30 May 2013 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 5 series2013 bmw 550ibmwbmw 5 seriesbmw 550idinandinan bmwdinan s3 bmw 550idinan stage 3quick spinsteve dinanThu, 30 May 2013 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Volvo, Mitsubishi, <i>Road & Track</i> among brands predicted to disappear from North America next year]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/volvo-mitsubishi-road-and-track-among-brands-predicted-to-disapp/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/volvo-mitsubishi-road-and-track-among-brands-predicted-to-disapp/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/volvo-mitsubishi-road-and-track-among-brands-predicted-to-disapp/#comments

24/7 Wall St., a financial news and opinion website, has identified 10 big brands that it believes will disappear from the US (and likely Canada) within the next 18 months. The list "reflects how industry trends can accelerate the demise of certain brands," says the publication, noting the "brutally competitive nature of certain industries and the importance of not falling behind in efficiency, innovation or financing." Failure of a brand may happen for a variety of reasons, but the website points out that declining sales, rising costs, losing market share and a loss of customers are nails in an impending coffin.

According to the report, automotive brands with market shares under half a per cent cannot remain competitive against giants like Volkswagen Group, Toyota, General Motors and Daimler AG. Citing the loss of Suzuki when it filed for bankruptcy in the US last year and Canada in March, the website is predicting that Volvo and Mitsubishi will follow, exiting North America by the end of 2014. Mitsubishi's sales were down in April - making it one of the wort performers out there.

Another tough business sector is print advertising, as digital and online media avoid the legacy costs of materials, printing and distribution by truck and mail. 24/7 Wall St. called out Martha Stuart Living and Road & Track as two American brands living on borrowed time. It also predicts that Road & Track, celebrated as the oldest automobile magazine in the U.S. (founded in 1947), will likely roll up with Car and Driver, as both brands are based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and owned by the Hearst Corporation. However, R&T's editorial staff recently underwent a major turnover as the magazine relocated to the northern state from sunny California, and Hearst backed a top-to-bottom revamp of the publication's print and online properties, suggesting that the media company believes there's life in the old girl yet.

Continue reading Volvo, Mitsubishi, Road & Track among brands predicted to disappear from North America next year

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Volvo, Mitsubishi, Road & Track among brands predicted to disappear from North America next year originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 27 May 2013 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>247 wall streetdemise of brandshearst corporationmitsubishiroad trackvolvoMon, 27 May 2013 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Henrik Fisker bidding with Hong Kong tycoon to get his company back]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/henrik-fisker-bidding-with-hong-kong-tycoon-to-get-his-company-b/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/henrik-fisker-bidding-with-hong-kong-tycoon-to-get-his-company-b/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/henrik-fisker-bidding-with-hong-kong-tycoon-to-get-his-company-b/#commentsFisker Karma in motion
Struggling to save Fisker Automotive from the of talons of bankruptcy, Henrik Fisker has teamed up with Hong Kong billionaire Richard Li to offer to purchase the company's outstanding U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) advanced vehicles loan for just a fraction of its US$171 million balance (the company was originally loaned US$192 million, but US$21 million was seized last month by the Energy Department).

According to Reuters, there are at least two different investor groups interested in the company, but the DOE loan must be addressed before the automaker can be revived. (Satisfying the federal loan helps make Fisker Automotive more attractive to potential buyers, but it still leaves outstanding debt to suppliers). The DOE would sell the loan to cut its losses - against slim odds of the loan being repaid - even though it would be recovering only pennies on the dollar.

While the Fisker/Li group has reportedly offered to buy the loan for between US$25 - $30 million, another group led by Chinese automaker Wanxiang Group and Bob Lutz have teamed up to offer to buy Fisker for US$20 million in a prearranged bankruptcy. That second investor group is likely working a different angle: remember, it was Lutz who unveiled his Corvette ZR1-powered VL Automotive Destino at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year.

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Henrik Fisker bidding with Hong Kong tycoon to get his company back originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 27 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcybob lutzchapter 11fisker automotivefisker bankruptcyfisker karmahenrik fiskerrichard liMon, 27 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why Adam Carolla doesn't drive his fancy cars on the street]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/why-adam-carolla-doesnt-drive-his-fancy-cars-on-the-street/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/why-adam-carolla-doesnt-drive-his-fancy-cars-on-the-street/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/27/why-adam-carolla-doesnt-drive-his-fancy-cars-on-the-street/#comments
Comedian Adam Carolla is a very unique car collector, especially when compared to some of his peers. Those other well-known "Hollywood" automotive enthusiasts, who include Jay Leno and Jerry Seinfeld, are often spotted on public roads driving priceless cars from their private collections. But not Carolla.

Two years ago, when we visited Carolla's Southern California home, we were awestruck by his pristine Datsun Camel GT pace car, Bob Sharp Racing IMSA 300ZX and his custom Datsun Roadster 1600. In another corner, we took cloth covers off a gorgeous 1967 Lamborghini 400 GT 2+2 and a Lamborghini Miura.

While most of us would jump at the opportunity to tool around in any one of those classics, Carolla recently told eBay Motors that he has no interest in mimicking fellow stars like Leno. He doesn't relish the attention expensive machinery garners, and there is always the chance something is going to break. Even worse, the accomplished vintage racer said that the streets of Los Angeles are chock full of cops - that takes all of the fun out of nailing an apex at speed.

So Carolla's collection will remain, in perfect condition, stored for his own admiration. His daily commute, grocery errands and trips to the studio will be run in standard production vehicles - they draw fewer eyes. Don't ask him to change, either, or he'll give you something to think about: "Does anyone ask a stamp collector if he uses his stamps to mail in his gas bill?"

Click through to watch a video on Carolla in a celebrity race event.

Gallery: MILLHOUSE COLLECTION




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Why Adam Carolla doesn't drive his fancy cars on the street originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 27 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam carollaadam carolla collectioncar collectioncar collectionscarollacarolla car collectioncelebrityclassicclassicslamborghinilamborghini miuramiurathe man showMon, 27 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Lincoln MKC prototype caught partially covered, reveals some changes]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/lincoln-mkc-prototype-caught-partially-covered-reveals-some-cha/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/lincoln-mkc-prototype-caught-partially-covered-reveals-some-cha/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/lincoln-mkc-prototype-caught-partially-covered-reveals-some-cha/#commentsLincoln MKC Spy Shots

When Lincoln pulled the wraps off the MKC Concept at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year, we said that the very attractive concept was going to closely mirror the production vehicle. With few exceptions, a clad prototype recently caught running on public roads seems to substantiate our statement.

From what the pictures reveal, the disguised Lincoln MKC production mule and show concept seem to share the same waistline with identical sculpting over the wheels. The midsection of the two also appear to match with the same flare and styling. The lower rockers have been cleaned up a bit, mainly to be more practical in the real world (the deep chisels on the show car would have collected mud and snow).

Taking a look at the exposed front bumper, we see a very similar lower fascia complete wtih the metal skid plate on the chin. The window profile also seems to match the concept, though we're still unclear exactly how that C- and D-pillar section is going to look. Of course, and it always seems to be the case when concepts evolve into production vehicles, the MKC gains four normal door handles, standard-sized mirrors and a slightly smaller wheel/tire package. We expect the production version of the Lincoln MKC to debut later this year.

Scroll down to watch the MKC launch in Detroit.

Gallery: 2013 Lincoln MKT Ecoboost








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Lincoln MKC prototype caught partially covered, reveals some changes originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 25 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lincolnlincoln mkclincoln mkc prototypespy photosspy shotsSat, 25 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[V8 Supercars rumble Circuit of the Americas at the Austin 400]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/v8-supercars-rumble-circuit-of-the-americas-at-the-austin-400/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/v8-supercars-rumble-circuit-of-the-americas-at-the-austin-400/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/v8-supercars-rumble-circuit-of-the-americas-at-the-austin-400/#commentsNissan Altima V8 Supercar at COTA - lifting wheels in a corner

In case you missed it, Australia's V8 Supercars racing series - think of it as a cross between ALMS GT and NASCAR - roared through Texas this past weekend providing entertainment for more than 68,000 fans who were in attendance at the Austin 400 held at the impressive Circuit of the Americas venue. The three-day Championship event included four qualifying sessions and four 100 kilometre sprint races, all run nearly flat-out.

The series' inaugural event in North America didn't disappoint.

The cars are based on production Ford Falcon, Holden Commodore, Nissan Altima and Mercedes-Benz E-Class models, each fitted with a thunderous 5.0-litre V8 (rated at roughly 650 horsepower) sending power to the rear wheels through a sequential gearbox. The drivers sit on the right, protected by a sturdy tube-frame chassis and plenty of honeycomb crush space - good thing, as car-to-car contact and jumping curbs is the rule of the game (check out the gallery for a closer look at the carnage).

The series' inaugural event in North America didn't disappoint. North American fans were joined by a large contingent of Aussies who made the long trek over the Pacific; all jumped to their feet for each standing start as dozens of roaring V8 Supercars peeled off to be first up COTA's tricky Turn 1 (the cars have no traction control or ABS). Each sprint lasted less than an hour, with one mandatory pit for tires, so the field was constantly changing position.

As all of the foreign drivers were new to the circuit (the Aussies nicknamed the tall white observation tower, with red trailing pipes, "The Mullet"), it took some time for each team to acclimate to its challenges and develop strategy. More than once, a car fell back in the pack when it followed the wrong line through Turns 3-6, and it was wedged out of position at the exit (of course, being V8 Supercars, the tall curbs hardly seemed to deter).

Holden's Jamie Whincup, racing under the Red Bull label, took three of the races, while the one remaining event was won by Fabian Coulthard, also driving a Holden, for the Lockwood Racing team. We were embedded with the teams from Nissan. Their Altima sedans, unveiled just months ago, fared well with several top-ten finishes - impressive results for a new team competing in this well-established series. The next event is at Hidden Valley Raceway from June 14-16... and, based on the overwhelmingly positive response from the fans, the series already has plans to come back to North America in 2014.

Click through to watch a video on the Nissan Altima V8 Supercar.

Gallery: Erebus Motorsport Mercedes-Benz V8 Supercar launch






Continue reading V8 Supercars rumble Circuit of the Americas at the Austin 400

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V8 Supercars rumble Circuit of the Americas at the Austin 400 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 24 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australian racingcircuit of the americascotanissannissan altimasupercarsv8 supercarsv8 supercars altimaFri, 24 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: 2014 Nissan GT-R Track Pack squares off against Audi R8 V10 Plus]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/2014-nissan-gt-r-track-pack-versus-audi-r8-v10-plus/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/2014-nissan-gt-r-track-pack-versus-audi-r8-v10-plus/http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/2014-nissan-gt-r-track-pack-versus-audi-r8-v10-plus/#commentsGT-R vs Audi R8

The team over at Motor Trend has pitted the new Audi R8 V10 Plus against the Nissan GT-R. While both of the bright red all-wheel-drive supercars are comparably matched in power output, the similarities end there. Audi offers a mid-engine aluminum coupe with a naturally aspirated V10 that spits out 550 horsepower. Nissan shows up with a more traditional coupe equipped with a 545-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 at the front of the car.

The Head-to-Head video takes both cars to the Streets of Willow Springs in the California desert for some track work with professional racing driver Randy Pobst behind the wheel. After a day at the track, the pair head to the local mountains for some spirited real-world driving. One dominates on the circuit, while the other earns back its credibility in the canyons. We won't tell you which coupe comes out on top, but we think you may be surprised. Follow the link below to watch for yourself.

Gallery: 2013 Nissan GT-R Black Edition: Quick Spin

Continue reading 2014 Nissan GT-R Track Pack squares off against Audi R8 V10 Plus

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2014 Nissan GT-R Track Pack squares off against Audi R8 V10 Plus originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 23 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi r8audi r8 v10 plusmotor trendnissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r track packrandy pobstvideoThu, 23 May 2013 14:15:00 EST