Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png 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/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Zach Sobiech was a Nissan GT-R fan, will always be our hero]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/zach-sobiech-was-a-nissan-gt-r-fan-will-always-be-our-hero/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/zach-sobiech-was-a-nissan-gt-r-fan-will-always-be-our-hero/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/zach-sobiech-was-a-nissan-gt-r-fan-will-always-be-our-hero/#comments Filed under: , ,

Zach Sobiech driving Nissan GT-R - video screencapLike presumably any other 17-year-old out there, Zach Sobiech was ecstatic when a Nissan GT-R rolled into his driveway. As you can see in the image above, he had an ear-to-ear smile as he got to spend a week driving his dream car - but what you can't see is that he was just weeks away from losing a four-year battle against a rare form of bone cancer called osteosarcoma.

"You don't have to find out you're dying to start living"

Diagnosed with the cancer at the age of 14, Zach fought back with inspiring optimism and an infectious smile, but he ultimately lost his battle with cancer on May 20. In the video posted below, Zach says "you don't have to find out you're dying to start living," and hopefully, his heartwarming spirit will live on with those who watch it. Zach's love for the GT-R starts to show around the 5:30 mark, but we definitely suggest that you grab a box of Kleenex and watch the entire 22-minute video.

This video was posted on his 18th birthday ­- May 3 - when he had just weeks to live. Be sure to check out some of the videos for songs that he wrote including "Clouds" (also embedded below).

Gallery: 2014 Nissan GT-R Track Edition

Continue reading Zach Sobiech was a Nissan GT-R fan, will always be our hero

Zach Sobiech was a Nissan GT-R fan, will always be our hero originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> nissan gt-rosteosarcomavideozach sobiech Tue, 21 May 2013 19:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20578776/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/zach-sobiech-was-a-nissan-gt-r-fan-will-always-be-our-hero/20578776/article-detail.xml 20578776 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/zach-sobiech-nissan-gtr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/zach-sobiech-nissan-gtr.jpg <![CDATA[Meet the man whose house is designed around his car]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/meet-the-man-whose-house-is-designed-around-his-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/meet-the-man-whose-house-is-designed-around-his-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/meet-the-man-whose-house-is-designed-around-his-car/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Holger Schubert and his Ferrari garage - Petrolicious video screencap
It's been a couple of years since we last heard about Holger Schubert and his award-winning office/garage, but it looks like the city of Los Angeles, thankfully, did not force him to tear down the bridge that gives his Ferrari 512 BBi arguably the nicest parking spot in California. Petrolicious is back again with another well-done video, which finally introduces us to Schubert as well as his lust-worthy Ferrari.

As for the structure, it is half garage and half work space with an office, couch, bookshelf and television, and one hell of a view. There is a ramp that raises to allow the Ferrari to roll backward out of the garage before starting up on the aforementioned bridge that sits 16-feet above the ground. The car itself is an equally admirable piece of art, with a wedge-like shape and its reserved dark gray hue. If you're not the jealous type, click here to scroll down and meet Schubert and his incredible Ferrari.

Gallery: Ferrari 250 GTO 50th Anniversary at Pebble Beach

Continue reading Meet the man whose house is designed around his car

Meet the man whose house is designed around his car originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ferrariferrari 512 bbferrari berlinetta boxerferrari boxergaragegarage mahalholger schubertpetroliciousvideo Tue, 21 May 2013 16:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20578450/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/meet-the-man-whose-house-is-designed-around-his-car/20578450/article-detail.xml 20578450 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/holger-schubert-ferrari-garage2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/holger-schubert-ferrari-garage2.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda MX-5 Miata is the ultimate Frisbee partner]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mazda-mx-5-miata-ultimate-frisbee-partner/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mazda-mx-5-miata-ultimate-frisbee-partner/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mazda-mx-5-miata-ultimate-frisbee-partner/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Mazda MX-5 Miata roadsters playing Frisbee - video screencap

Playing a game of Frisbee is rarely about power - it's more about agility, precision and open-air enjoyment. Much the same can be said of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, whose charm has always originated more from its finesse and tactility rather than brute strength and outright speed, qualities the evergreen roadster has traditionally lacked.

So consider it a fine match that Mazda has taken a couple of its popular convertibles out with a handful of crack Frisbee players and put them on a closed circuit in Surrey, England for a stylish game of catch. It's a simple recipe for entertainment - check out the video by scrolling below.

Gallery: Mazda Miata Super20 Quick Spin

Continue reading Mazda MX-5 Miata is the ultimate Frisbee partner

Mazda MX-5 Miata is the ultimate Frisbee partner originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mazda miata2013 mazda mx-5 miataflying discfrisbeelongcrossmazda miatamazda mx-5mazda mx-5 miatastuntvideo Tue, 21 May 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20578428/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/mazda-mx-5-miata-ultimate-frisbee-partner/20578428/article-detail.xml 20578428 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-mazda-miatas-playing-frisbee_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-mazda-miatas-playing-frisbee.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Jaguar XF 2.0T]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2013-jaguar-xf-2-0t/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2013-jaguar-xf-2-0t/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2013-jaguar-xf-2-0t/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Jaguar is moving to modernize its XF engine lineup - once the exclusive territory of V8 mills - with a range including a turbo four, a supercharged six and supercharged V8s of various potencies. Personally, I'll miss the combination of this smooth looking and driving XF sedan, and the lazy power of the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre engine, even if the super six has earned some praise in other applications.

The truth is that the four, six, eight lineup for the XF makes a lot of sense, and this 2.0T version of the sedan is far better than I expected it to be. In fact, there's a legitimate argument to be made for it as the XF that works the best for the largest group of customers. Click here to find out why in our full driving notes:

Continue reading 2013 Jaguar XF 2.0T

2013 Jaguar XF 2.0T originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 jaguar xf2014 jaguar xf 2.0tfeaturedjaguarjaguar xfquick spinquickspinreview Tue, 21 May 2013 15:01:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20577646/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/2013-jaguar-xf-2-0t/20577646/article-detail.xml 20577646 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-jaguar-xf-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-jaguar-xf-628.jpg <![CDATA[McLaren 12C Spider worked over by Gemballa]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-12c-spider-worked-over-by-gemballa/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-12c-spider-worked-over-by-gemballa/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-12c-spider-worked-over-by-gemballa/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



A host of carbon fibre parts designed and made in Germany are what turn the McLaren MP4-12C Spider into the Gemballa GT Spider. The 625-horsepower, twin-turbo V8 is untouched, almost everything else is heavily touched. There's the body kit that includes new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, new tailpipes and logos. Swing up the doors and you'll find a reskinned interior in leather and Alcantara in your choice of colour, plus colour-matched gauges. That will run you 19,980 euro ($26,427 CAD) including paint and installation, but it can alternatively be shipped internationally if you'd like to have your own people install it.

The GForged-one wheels are an inch larger than the standard units, at 20 inches up front and 21 inches in back, but don't change the weight of the car. There are two styles and two finishes available, and shod in Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber they'll require 7,980 euro ($10,548 CAD) of your hard earned. Throw down a little more and you can have the brake calipers painted, too.

If this number whispers seductive German nothings in your ear, check out the press release below and the high-res gallery above.

Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C GT3






Continue reading McLaren 12C Spider worked over by Gemballa

McLaren 12C Spider worked over by Gemballa originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aftermarketgemballagemballa gt spidermclarenmclaren mp4-12c spider Tue, 21 May 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20577678/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/mclaren-12c-spider-worked-over-by-gemballa/20577678/article-detail.xml 20577678 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gemballa-mclaren-mp4-12c_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gemballa-mclaren-mp4-12c.jpg <![CDATA[The big dune jump and the damage done [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/the-big-dune-jump-and-the-damage-done/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/the-big-dune-jump-and-the-damage-done/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/the-big-dune-jump-and-the-damage-done/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,

Higgins Jump

The Silver Lake sand dunes see their fair share of well-built trophy trucks executing impressive jumps. Drivers build insane pieces of machinery for the express purpose of sailing through the air like mad men and women.

Mike Higgins is no stranger to the area. His heavily modified Ford trophy truck has gone flying through the sky on more than one occasion, but he recently bit off more than he could chew. After hitting a particularly lofty dune, Higgins went airborne for a ridiculous 55 metres (180 feet) before becoming intimately familiar with the finer points of gravity.

While Higgins nailed the jump, his landing fell short of wowing the judges. The impact very nearly broke his truck in two. Despite the mechanical mayhem, the driver walked away without a scratch, proving that occasionally miracles really do happen. You can check out the jump and the subsequent destruction below for yourself. Be warned: there's a fair bit of foul language.

Gallery: 2013 Ford Raptor F-150 SVT






Continue reading The big dune jump and the damage done [w/video]

The big dune jump and the damage done [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> crashfordford f-150 svt raptorford jumpjumpmike higginssilver lake sand dunesvideo Tue, 21 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20577549/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/the-big-dune-jump-and-the-damage-done/20577549/article-detail.xml 20577549 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/higgins-jump-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/higgins-jump-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Bentley Flying Spur]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-bentley-flying-spur/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-bentley-flying-spur/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-bentley-flying-spur/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Redefining Super Luxury On A Shrinking Planet

2014 Bentley Flying Spur - front three-quarter view

Anyone on Earth with access to the Internet, a television or radio for the last 20 years knows that China is no longer the poor stronghold for strict Communist ideals that it was for much of the 20th Century. (Well, at least not in some places.) Traveling to China twice in less than a month - first to Shanghai for a very international auto show and now to drive and review the 2014 Bentley Flying Spur - I've learned that there's no lack of personal wealth, at least in two of the world's largest cities.

And yet, even I think the scene before me is a little bit ridiculous. Here I am, slowly climbing up a hillside to reach a fortification at something called Zhuanduo Pass, where roughly a dozen pristine examples of Western decadence sit idling their hand-built 12-cylinder engines in the shadow of China's revered and awesome Great Wall. Not five kilometers south of here, I'd passed an old man in traditional all-black garb, literally carrying a bundle of sticks on his back from one side of a village to the other. Now as I look through the snug-fitting and silent side glass of the my $200,000+ palace on wheels, I'm more apt to see fat German tourists crisping in the hot Chinese sun while blowing the equivalent of an average Chinese monthly paycheck on lunch and a few Great Wall souvenirs.

Of course, it's nothing like the average Chinese person that Bentley is targeting with this new Flying Spur. There is a rapidly ballooning class of rich and super rich in the People's Republic these days; China can now lay claim to around 100 billionaires (in US dollars), as well as some 60,000+ individuals worth more than US$16 million and, famously, now more than 1 million millionaires. Considering that Bentley had a booming year in 2012 by selling 8,510 vehicles, the importance of what is quickly becoming the world's biggest luxury car market is easy to see.

And that's why, despite the cost of hauling me from Ann Arbor to Beijing and back, and despite the cognitive dissonance of driving a $200+ car through villages whose buildings are probably worth less in total, Bentley jumped through a whole lot of hoops to pull off what it says is the first-ever global vehicle launch in China. I've got to tell you, if this is what being a trailblazer feels like, I could get used to it.

Continue reading 2014 Bentley Flying Spur

2014 Bentley Flying Spur originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 bentley flying spurbentleybentley chinabentley continental flying spurbentley flying spurfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrive Tue, 21 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20578080/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/2014-bentley-flying-spur/20578080/article-detail.xml 20578080 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bentley-flying-spur-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bentley-flying-spur-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/#comments Filed under: , , ,


A monstrous supercharged V8 engine could be in store for Chrysler and SRT products, if recent rumours are to be believed. Allpar is reporting that the forced-induction V8 - Chrysler's first, if this goes down - could make its debut this summer.

The story goes that the Hellcat would be based on a 6.2-litre Hemi engine, rather than on the existing 5.7- or 6.4-litre versions of the company's vaunted mill. In any case, the general consensus is that the motor will have gobs of power. Modest estimates call for between 500 to 570 horsepower, with some outliers predicting a figure as high as 600 hp. That figure would put the output would place the Hellcat awfully close to that of the 640-hp V10 in the SRT Viper, too. Allpar contends that a slightly lower powered version would allow Chrysler to keep costs below that of the more powerful Ford Shelby GT500, which might be a sweet spot.

The Hellcat could debut in a number of SRT products. SRT versions of the Charger, Challenger and 300 are all up for grabs, as is the rumoured SRT Barracuda.

Click here for a video on the Chrysler 300S 426 Concept, which might hint at the future of SRT powered cars.

Gallery: 2013 SRT Viper: First Drive

Continue reading Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power

Chrysler readying Hellcat V8 with Viper-like power originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> barracudachryslerchrysler 300dodgedodge challengerdodge chargerhellcathellcat hemi v8hemisrtsrt viper Tue, 21 May 2013 11:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20578033/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/chrysler-readying-hellcat-v8-with-viper-like-power/20578033/article-detail.xml 20578033 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cuda0_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cuda0.jpg <![CDATA[BMW-Toyota sports car heading towards Tokyo debut]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/bmw-toyota-sports-car-heading-towards-tokyo-debut/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/bmw-toyota-sports-car-heading-towards-tokyo-debut/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/bmw-toyota-sports-car-heading-towards-tokyo-debut/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,



Earlier this year, BMW and Toyota confirmed a four-part joint venture mostly focusing on increasing improving vehicle efficiency using fuel cells, lightweight materials and better battery technology. Also tucked into the announcement was a "feasibility study" for a shared platform to underpin a future midsize "sports vehicle."

In terms of the latter, it seems that things have stepped up from the feasibility stage to the conceptual stage, as Motor Trend reports we could see a pair of new sports car concepts debut later this year in at the Tokyo Motor Show. There isn't much information about the new program, but the article suggests the sports cars could be all-wheel drive hybrids, with electric motors powering the front wheels and a gas engine powering the rear wheels. While a partnership between Toyota and BMW might not lend itself to a catchy portmanteau like "Toyobaru," here's to hoping it will bear fruit that is as exciting as the ones produced by the Toyota/Subaru tie up.

Click through to watch video coverage of BMW's latest concept cars.

Gallery: BMW sets Guinness record for longest sustained drift






Continue reading BMW-Toyota sports car heading towards Tokyo debut

BMW-Toyota sports car heading towards Tokyo debut originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw toyotasports carsports vehicletokyo motor showtoyotatoyota bmwtoyota bmw partnership Tue, 21 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20577540/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/bmw-toyota-sports-car-heading-towards-tokyo-debut/20577540/article-detail.xml 20577540 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/toyota-bmw-partnership-execs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/toyota-bmw-partnership-execs.jpg <![CDATA[Hennessey completes first VelociRaptor SUV conversion [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/hennessey-completes-first-velociraptor-suv-conversion-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/hennessey-completes-first-velociraptor-suv-conversion-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/hennessey-completes-first-velociraptor-suv-conversion-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Hennessey VelociRaptor

Start with a Ford F-150 SVT Raptor as your base vehicle for modification, and chances are high that you'll end up with something pretty cool. Now, have those modifications done by professional lunatics Hennessey Performance, make the project turning the pickup into an ultra-long SUV, and the result stands a real chance of being a total kick in the ass. Let us present the Hennessey VelociRaptor then, in all of its awesomeness.

Hennessey has taken care in grafting a "Expedition style" rear cabin onto the Raptor, complete with an optional third row. The pictures we have show a cabin that's up to the fit and finish standards of the original Ford truck, too. The cab added over the bed also makes room for a massive load space out back, accessible via split out-folding doors and long enough for a person to lay down in (see video).

Mechanically, the truck-turned-SUV sticks with Ford's stock 6.2-litre V8, rated at 411 horsepower, or can be had with a supercharger and some 600 hp. Hennessey says the stock-motor VelociRaptor will run from 0-60 miles per hour (0-96 km/h) in 7.5 seconds, while the hi-po version takes just 5.9 seconds. The SUV does take some of the off-road ability away from the Raptor, with the company saying it hasn't yet had the opportunity to test its capabilities. On-roading and "moderate off-road duties" are the current prescription.

Hennessey will build just 30 copies of the VelociRaptor per year, offered at a starting price of US$149,500 to our neighbours to the south. If that seems like an exorbitant markup over the Raptor's $58,599 Canadian sticker, well, you're welcome to go out and build your own. Scroll down for a video walk around of the VelociRaptor, and one showing the supercharged version on a dyno, then check out the full press release below.

Gallery: 2013 Shelby Raptor: New York Auto Show 2013






Continue reading Hennessey completes first VelociRaptor SUV conversion [w/video]

Hennessey completes first VelociRaptor SUV conversion [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 21 May 2013 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fordford f-150 svt raptorford raptorhennesseyhennessey velociraptorraptorRaptor 6.2raptor svtRaptorSvtSVTsvt raptorSvtRaptor Tue, 21 May 2013 09:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20577509/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/hennessey-completes-first-velociraptor-suv-conversion-w-video/20577509/article-detail.xml 20577509 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/hennessey-velociraptor-suv-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/hennessey-velociraptor-suv-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 BMW M5 adds Competition Package, stays close to home otherwise]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-bmw-m5-adds-competition-package-stays-close-to-home-otherw/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-bmw-m5-adds-competition-package-stays-close-to-home-otherw/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-bmw-m5-adds-competition-package-stays-close-to-home-otherw/#comments Filed under: , , ,



The leaked facelift images and the Competition Package rumours were accurate: This is your 2014 BMW M5 with exactly three nips and four tucks distinguishing it from the outgoing model, as well as that special track-day overhaul. The standard M5 boasts 560 horsepower from its 4.4-litre, twin-turbo V8, the Competition Package ups that to a preliminary 575 hp, with shifting options remaining the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or the six-speed manual.

The go-fast pack makes a lot more changes around the car, though. It lowers the sedan by ten millimeters, recalibrates the steering, differential, front bushings, coil springs, dampers and M chassis control system and adds stiffer anti-sway bars and black chrome exhaust tips. The whole thing sits on 20-inch M light alloy wheels and can be specced with carbon ceramic brakes. For the dragsters among you, the result is a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time that drops by 0.1 second.

Inside, there's a new look to the steering wheel, a touchpad for the iDrive controller, more storage and more chrome trim. Two more paint colours and two more leather hues have been announced, with more Frozen paint finishes on the way as well. We're told prices will be announced closer to the sedan's on-sale date later this Summer/Fall. For now you see what BMW has to show and tell it in the photo gallery and press release below.

Gallery: BMW M5

Continue reading 2014 BMW M5 adds Competition Package, stays close to home otherwise

2014 BMW M5 adds Competition Package, stays close to home otherwise originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 bmw m5bmwbmw m5 Mon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20575406/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/2014-bmw-m5-adds-competition-package-stays-close-to-home-otherw/20575406/article-detail.xml 20575406 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-m5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-m5.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Fiat 500 Turbo]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2013-fiat-500-turbo-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2013-fiat-500-turbo-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2013-fiat-500-turbo-review/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Diet Abarth

2013 Fiat 500 Turbo

Try as I might, I just can't bring myself to stick to a routine of drinking diet soda. Nevermind the fact that I'm trying to cut soda out of my life altogether - every now and then, I just want the high-octane stuff, and diet simply won't do. If I'm already going to subject myself to the sweeteners and caffeine, I'm going to take the calories that go along with it.

Some people feel the same way about cars (go big or go home!), but I'm not one of them - I often see the merit in less-potent machines that automakers offer. For example, while I simply adored the Mini John Cooper Works GP that I recently tested, I still said I'd rather have a Cooper S Hardtop every day. And while the Ford Focus ST may have been crowned the winner in my hot hatch comparison test from last year, my experience in the Fiesta ST a couple of months ago reminded me yet again that less can indeed be more.

So when Fiat introduced this 500 Turbo - a sort of "Diet Abarth" - I was prepared for the possibility of similar conclusions. But with the range-topping Abarth proving to be an incredibly delicious concoction, would this tall glass of diet quench my thirst just the same?

Continue reading 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo

2013 Fiat 500 Turbo originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 20 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 fiat 500 turbofeaturedfiatfiat 500fiat 500 turboreviewreviews Mon, 20 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20576228/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/2013-fiat-500-turbo-review/20576228/article-detail.xml 20576228 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-fiat-500-turbo-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-fiat-500-turbo-review.jpg <![CDATA[Daimler discussing collaboration with Aston Martin]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/daimler-discussing-collaboration-with-aston-martin/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/daimler-discussing-collaboration-with-aston-martin/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/daimler-discussing-collaboration-with-aston-martin/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Daimler and Aston Martin have been "in discussions" over various matters going back at least five years, when an engine-supply deal from the Germans to the Brits turned into rumours of Daimler looking to buy a piece of Aston Martin. Neither the engines nor the company stake ever changed hands, but three years later they were talking about trying a relationship again, this time in the large luxury sedan segment - Daimler would get help with Maybach, Aston Martin would get help with the Lagonda revival. That also came to nothing.

Late last year, when Investment Dar offloaded a share of its stake in Aston Martin to Anglo-Italian equity house Investindustrial, part of the allure was that Investindustrial said it would work to unite Aston Martin with technology and components from AMG. So the talks have begun again.

Although nothing's come of it yet, Bloomberg reports that the English and the Germans have opened dialogue "on supply and technical-cooperation agreements." In November 2012, Investindustrial mentioned getting engines, gearboxes and other technology from AMG - a brand it got to know when it owned Ducati. A tie-up would also help indie player Aston Martin rein in development costs. Daimler is said to be Investindustrial's preferred partner, but the latest chapter has only just begun. We're sure they hope it won't take another five years to get something closed with someone.

Click through to watch our video short cuts of the Rapide.

Gallery: 2013 Aston Martin DB9: Review






Continue reading Daimler discussing collaboration with Aston Martin

Daimler discussing collaboration with Aston Martin originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 18 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> amgaston martindaimlerinvestindustrial Sat, 18 May 2013 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20564562/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/daimler-discussing-collaboration-with-aston-martin/20564562/article-detail.xml 20564562 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/aston-martin-rapide-s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/aston-martin-rapide-s.jpg <![CDATA[Acura NSX to be built in North America in 2015]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/acura-nsx-to-be-built-in-north-america-in-2015/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/acura-nsx-to-be-built-in-north-america-in-2015/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/acura-nsx-to-be-built-in-north-america-in-2015/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Acura NSX Concept - live at Detroit Auto Show

Honda has confirmed that the forthcoming Acura NSX hybrid supercar will be built at a brand-new facility in Ohio, USA. This will be the company's third plant in Ohio, and will come as the result of a US$70 million investment. Honda first hinted that NSX production would be coming to Ohio when the original concept car was revealed at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show.

Honda's new facility, called the Performance Manufacturing Center, will encompass a 17,094 square metre (184,000-square foot) space inside of the automaker's former North American Logistics building and will employ 100 associates. As you might expect, the Performance Manufacturing Center is located just a few kilometres from Honda's American-based R&D facility, as well as the Marysville auto plant, where production of the 2014 Accord Hybrid will kick off this fall.

"The location of this facility is in the midst of one of the greatest collections of engineering and production talent in the world. So it makes sense that we will renew the dream and build this high-tech, supercar in Marysville, Ohio," said Hidenobu Iwata, president and CEO of Honda of America, in a press release.

Production of the Acura NSX will begin sometime in 2015. We have already seen the hybrid hero several times in conceptual form, with the latest reveal at this year's Detroit Auto Show giving us a glimpse at the car's interior.

Scroll down for the full details in Honda's press release as well as a video showing the NSX.

Gallery: Acura NSX Concept


Continue reading Acura NSX to be built in North America in 2015

Acura NSX to be built in North America in 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 18 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 acura nsx2016 acura nsxacuraacura nsxhondahonda performance manufacturing centernsxnsx conceptohio Sat, 18 May 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20568160/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/acura-nsx-to-be-built-in-north-america-in-2015/20568160/article-detail.xml 20568160 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-acura-nsx-concept-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-acura-nsx-concept-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[Bowler EXR S vs Caterham Seven Supersport in spectacularly bizarre track battle [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/bowler-exr-s-vs-caterham-seven-supersport-in-spectacularly-bizar/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/bowler-exr-s-vs-caterham-seven-supersport-in-spectacularly-bizar/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/bowler-exr-s-vs-caterham-seven-supersport-in-spectacularly-bizar/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The Bowler EXR S is a purpose-built SUV based on Land Rover bones with a 550-horsepower supercharged V8 designed to tackle off-road rallying events like the Paris-Dakar. The Caterham Seven Supersport is a feather-light track day weapon, purposely created to out-hustle just about anything on a winding race circuit. If asked to pick one of them as the fastest around a handling circuit in the UK, the smart money is clearly on the racing Caterham. Right?

Maybe, maybe not, as it turns out.

In what can only be the product of some right-place, right-time car loans, British publication Autocar has put together a wild on-track comparison between the Seven and the EXR S, with a pretty interesting outcome. We won't spoil it for you - go ahead and click it on below to watch the head-to-head for yourself.

Gallery: Caterham SP/300R






Continue reading Bowler EXR S vs Caterham Seven Supersport in spectacularly bizarre track battle [w/video]

Bowler EXR S vs Caterham Seven Supersport in spectacularly bizarre track battle [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bowlerbowler exrbowler exr-scaterhamcaterham sevencaterham seven supersportland roverlotus 7lotus sevenvideo Fri, 17 May 2013 20:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20574489/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/bowler-exr-s-vs-caterham-seven-supersport-in-spectacularly-bizar/20574489/article-detail.xml 20574489 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bowler-vs-caterham-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bowler-vs-caterham-628.jpg <![CDATA[Malaise Era All-Stars]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/#comments Filed under: , ,

1976-1979 Porsche 930 - front three-quarter view, blue

A few weeks ago, we bid a fond happy 40th anniversary to the automotive dark ages of 1973-84 that have come to be known as "The Malaise Era" - the performance ice-age when 160 horsepower was a lot and a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of under 10 seconds was remarkable. Like music in the 1980s, everything in automobiledom didn't suck, however. There were a few bright spots. Here are five of our favourites:

1976-79 Porsche 930, aka 911 Turbo Carrera (above)
Photo Credit: Dorotheum

Porsche didn't get the Malaise memo either, and while Chevrolet beat them by a decade with the turbocharged Corvair Corsa, the Germans more fully developed turbocharging through racing where General Motors couldn't. Early 930s (known technically as 911 Turbo Carreras) were a bit crude, with turbo lag that could be measured with an egg timer. They lacked an intercooler as well as brakes that were up to the task, but performance was sensational, with the buff books reporting 0-60 mph (96 km/h) times of anywhere from 4.9 to 5.8 seconds and quarter-mile times of under 14 seconds. This was '60s muscle car performance at the height of the Malaise Era. Sadly, the 930 cost about six times as much as your average muscle car did.

Rob Sass is the Publisher of Hagerty Classic Cars magazine. He is a regular contributor to the automotive section of the New York Times and is the author of "Ran When Parked, Advice and Adventures from the Affordable Underbelly of Car Collecting."


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Continue reading Malaise Era All-Stars

Malaise Era All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi quattroaudi ur-quattrocar collectorchevychevy corvettecollector carsdatsundatsun 280zxmalaise eramercedesporscheporsche 930 Fri, 17 May 2013 17:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20574268/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/malaise-era-all-stars-porsche-audi-corvette-/20574268/article-detail.xml 20574268 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1979-porsche-911-turbo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1979-porsche-911-turbo.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus LFA owner gets town to remove speed bump]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2012 Lexus LFA supercar at sunset

What do you do if you have enough money to buy a Lexus LFA but can't get the car safely to your house? Get local government involved, of course. Rune Berge Vik, of Stavanger, Norway, did just that after he bought a Lexus LFA (the only LFA in the Nordic region according to tv2.no) last year only to find out that it could not clear a speed bump in his neighborhood.

To remedy the situation, Vik got in touch with his city, which had the speed bump removed. Talk about your tax dollars hard at work. On the other hand, it's commendable that the man actually uses his supercar as a daily driver, and besides, doesn't a street-legal car have the right to access said public streets?

Click through to watch an LFA attack the racetrack.

Gallery: Lexus LFA Nurburgring Package: Geneva 2011






Continue reading Lexus LFA owner gets town to remove speed bump

Lexus LFA owner gets town to remove speed bump originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 lexus lfalexuslexus lfalocal governmentspeed bumpspeed hump Fri, 17 May 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20574119/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/20574119/article-detail.xml 20574119 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2011-lexus-lfa-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2011-lexus-lfa-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Ford Mustang GT]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-ford-mustang-gt-quick-spin-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-ford-mustang-gt-quick-spin-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-ford-mustang-gt-quick-spin-review/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2014 Ford Mustang GT - front three-quarter view, black

I was more than a year removed from my last experience with the Mustang GT and its delicious 5.0 V8 when this new 2014 example rolled up to my driveway recently. Good weather and a planned road trip meant that I would get plenty of seat time in this conservatively specified example, too. In total, I logged about 643 kilometres (400 miles) in a week of driving - not a lot for some of you super commuters out there, but quite a lot for this work-from-home journalist.

The basic formula of the 5.0 has stayed the same for 2014. The 2013 model year saw a number of updates to keep the Mustang fresh until it's replaced with an all-new generation for 2015. So, for its bon voyage tour, the fifth-generation Pony Car has seen only a few modifications: a couple of new paint colours (Oxford White and Ruby Read Metallic), trim and wheel revisions and, sadly, the deletion of the Boss 302 from the Ford lineup. However, while the limited-edition Boss is likely to reappear sometime after the gen-six Mustang makes its debut in 2015, the GT Track Package cars like the one I tested provide at least a partial solution for those looking for hot laps.

Scroll down to read our driving notes...

Continue reading 2014 Ford Mustang GT

2014 Ford Mustang GT originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 ford mustang2014 ford mustang gtfordford mustangford mustang gtquick spin Fri, 17 May 2013 15:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20574050/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/2014-ford-mustang-gt-quick-spin-review/20574050/article-detail.xml 20574050 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-ford-mustang-gt-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-ford-mustang-gt-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class live reveal [w/videos]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-introduction-videos/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-introduction-videos/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-introduction-videos/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Mercedes-Benz isn't a brand afraid to put on a show for any old reason at all - like, just because it's Tuesday - but the premiere of the 2014 S-Class, even by the standards we're used to, was Broadway-theater intense. Held at a purpose-built venue inside a hanger at the Airbus factory in Hamburg, the hours-long extravaganza was hosted by two German newscasters and guest-starred Alicia Keyes, an A380, fireworks, every model in the lineup in a choreographed driving routine while The Stig did donuts in an SLS AMG in the rain, and at the very end, burlesque. That's how much the S-Class means to this brand.

What's it going to mean to the razor's edge of the mass-market large luxury sedan market? The exterior, that's ripe for debate. But the interior - well, it just hung a sign on the segment that read, "Achtung! This, meine Damen und Herren, is how it's done."

Scroll down to see the festivities...

Gallery: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class






Continue reading 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class live reveal [w/videos]

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class live reveal [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes s-classmercedesmercedes s-classmercedes s-klassevideo Fri, 17 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20573922/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/2014-mercedes-benz-s-class-introduction-videos/20573922/article-detail.xml 20573922 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-s-class-reveal-live-02-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-s-class-reveal-live-02-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body in drool-inducing photo gallery]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2015 Porsche 918 Spyder

We've seen it (in concept form, in officially rendered form and in Martini Racing livery), we've heard all about its 4.6-litre V8 with 608 horsepower, buoyed as it is by twin electric motors, its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and carbon fibre monocoque chassis. We've even taken a ride in one. What we haven't had, up until now at least, is had all of these details about the Porsche 918 Spyder in one convenient press blast. And we also now know that it will be a introduced as a 2015 model.

Along with the official specifications, Porsche has seen fit to release a new batch of images showing its production body from all angles. We get a good look at the car's interior bits and pieces, including a few shots showing how people fit underneath the removable hardtop panel.

Porsche sums up its baby with the following words: Maximum driving fun with minimal fuel consumption. We like the sound of that, and we think it's cool that the 918 can travel up to 29 kilometres (18 miles) on electricity alone, with performance statistics that aren't far off what we had from sports cars from a few short decades ago.

We think you'll find plenty of interesting information in the press release below, but first, you'll want to browse through the high-res image gallery above to take in all the unique visuals. Enjoy!

Gallery: Porsche 918 Spyder concept







Continue reading Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body in drool-inducing photo gallery

Porsche 918 Spyder shows its production body in drool-inducing photo gallery originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 porsche 918 spyder918918 spider918 spyderphotophoto galleryphotosporsche 918 spyderporsche photosporshe Fri, 17 May 2013 09:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20573707/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/2015-porsche-918-spyder-official-details/20573707/article-detail.xml 20573707 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-porsche-918-spyder628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-porsche-918-spyder628opt.jpg -1 2