Nissan announces Canadian pricing for the 2013 GT-R

Nissan Canada, Inc. today announced Canadian pricing for the 2013 Nissan GT-R, which is on sale now at Nissan GT-R dealers nationwide. Following a major revision just last year, the 2013 Nissan GT-R receives a number of impressive performance enhancements, reinforcing the flagship supercar’s spirit of continuous advancement. Horsepower has been boosted to 545 hp (from 530 hp), with torque now rated at 463 lb-ft (from 448 lb-ft). In addition, the suspension has been retuned to enhance both performance and comfort. Other changes for the 2013 model year include a standard RearView Monitor and the Black Edition receives a new dry carbon fibre rear spoiler.

The 2013 Nissan GT-R continues to be an incredible value, rivalling the fastest production supercars at a fraction of the price. The 2013 Nissan GT-R is available in two well-equipped models: GT-R Premium Edition and GT-R Black Edition with special lightweight black aluminum forged RAYS wheels, a unique red and black interior, Recaro leather-appointed seats and a new dry carbon fibre rear spoiler. 

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2013 Nissan GT-R: 

• GT-R Premium: $103,980
• GT-R Black Edition: $113,380

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2013 Nissan GT-R Preview

The Nissan GT-R has taken another step towards legendary status. In 2012, the Japanese automaker presented a fresh new look and a revamped mill whose power skyrocketed from 485 to 530 hp. We admired the new LED taillights, redesigned fascia with dual “rectifier fins” and increased downforce via a reduced drag coefficient.
The Nissan GT-R has taken another step towards legendary status. In 2012, the Japanese automaker presented a fresh new look and a revamped mill whose power skyrocketed from 485 to 530 hp. We admired the new LED taillights, redesigned fascia with dual “rectifier fins” and increased downforce via a reduced drag coefficient.

For 2013, Nissan has tweaked the engine some more in the name of continual improvement. The 3.8L twin-turbo V6 has been coaxed into producing 545 hp and 463 ft-lb of torque. Each and every engine is assembled in a controlled atmosphere clean room. Nissan isn’t messing around!

The 2013 GT-R comes in two flavours, the Premium, which fetches $103,980, and the Black Edition, which asks $113,380 for 20” alloy wheels with six spokes instead of ten, a carbon fibre spoiler, black interior trim with red topstitching and leather Recaro seats. Both models boast identical output numbers, and both come with a 6-speed, dual-clutch automated transmission.

The exclusive Premium Midship platform uses the world’s first independent rear transaxle for an AWD model. The setup relocates the transmission, transfer case and final drive towards the back of the car, optimizing weight distribution.
Tried and true 
Tested on the Sendai Hiland Raceway in 2011, the 2013 Nissan GT-R bounds from 0 to 100 km/h in a very convincing 2.86 seconds. For a price that leaves its rivals in the dust, this little firecracker beats the Ferrari 458 Italia (V8) and 599 GTO (V12) at their own game. The V6 also sips less fuel than the Audi R8, with an average rating of 12.9L/100 km in town and 9.2L on the highway.

Like last year, the GT-R features 6-piston callipers squeezing Brembo floating cross-drilled discs up front and 4-piston numbers around back. The body modifications introduced with the 2012 variant allow for better brake cooling with the addition of the aforementioned dual fins. Nissan recalibrated the suspension for the 2013 model, pushing its handling characteristics that much further.

As for the cabin, it includes a rear-view camera, navigation with the XM NavTraffic system and Bluetooth connectivity as well as an 11-speaker Bose stereo, packed into a sporty, streamlined environment.

The 2013 Nissan GT-R is now available in 34 Nissan dealerships across Canada.

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Mercedes Pullman stretches new 2013 Merc S-class family

Mercedes will launch an extra-long S-class Pullman stretching out to nearly seven metres long as part of the new S-class family arriving in 2013.

As Daimler has taken the kind option and slipped the Maybach some euthanasia pills, the new Pullman will in effect be the stretch-limo option from Stuttgart.

The regular S-class arrives first in 2013; expect to see this stretched limo a couple of years later in 2015.

The Pullman by Mercedes: what the stretch limo delivers
Where the 2015 Mercedes Pullman fits into the new S-class range
• S-class long-wheelbase (V222, 2013)
• S-class extra-long wheelbase (X222, 2014)
• 600 Pullman saloon (2015)
• S-class coupé (C217, 2013)
• S-class cabriolet (A217, 2014)
• S-class four-door coupé (C222, 2015, not yet signed off)

The extra-long S-class used to be badged Pullman, but in future, this traditional model designation will be reserved for a mighty luxury liner that seats six. At 6.5 metres long, it's not that much shorter than an entry-level stretch limo.

Special Pullman features include rear-facing second-row seats that fold away when not used, an optional partition, a made-to-measure body with upright headlamps, and an eight-window variable-tint greenhouse with sunroof, electric curtains and available armour-plating.

While Mercedes' Designo personalisation programme will cater for the most diverse colour and trim requirements, the comprehensive high-tech equipment includes Magic Light Control (dynamic LED lighting), Magic Sky Control (variable-tint glass moonroof) and Magic Body Control (camera-based pe-sense damping).

Our moles suggest four different wheelbase options should satisfy the most diverse packaging needs.

Here is what we can expect of next year's new S-class family:

• S-class saloon (W222, 2013)

>> A stretch too far? Click 'Add your comment' and sound off on the new Mercedes Pullman

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BMW M135i (2012) scooped at the Nurburgring

Remember the BMW Concept M135i at the 2012 Geneva motor show? We said it would portend a road car - the new £30k 1-series hot hatch - and here it is, testing at the Nurburgring.

Our spy photographers have caught the 300bhp-plus BMW 1-series as it undergoes durability testing at high speed in Germany.
You know all about the hardcore M cars: the M3 and M5, and even the 1-series M Coupe. Munich is now planning an M Performance division, to plug the gap between the maximum M division cars and the more cosmetic M Sport trim level.
That's where the BMW M135i comes in: it's a halfway house between a regular 135i and the limited-edition 1-series M Coupe.
Tellingly, BMW used to offer these M badges on models such as the M535i of 1979. It was the precursor to the M5, the original performance saloon from Munich. It's part of a plan to reclaim some of the ground won by Audi's S models.
This car is testing a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine with over 300bhp, according to our sources. That's just like the concept car's. It's rear-wheel drive, but has no M spec clever diff to apportion torque.
Those glossy blue front brake callipers confirm this is an M-fettled product. In future, all M cars wear blue brakes, gold signifying ceramic stoppers are fitted.
If the production car stays true to the concept car formula, it will wear 18in alloys and an M division fettled bodykit, including bespoke bumpers, blacked-out chrome window surrounds and special twin exhaust pipes mounted in a diffuser-style rear end undertray.
Expect to see the M135i hatchback in UK showrooms in late 2012, priced around £30,000. It'll slot above the 125i hatch (the 135i is only available in the 1-series coupe).

Remind me of the background of the BMW Concept M135i

How powerful is the M135i?

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2013 Ram 1500 Live Photos: 2012 New York Auto Show

Especially if the exterior of the refreshed 2013 Ram 1500 is the first thing you see, you might wonder what's new—save for maybe a front-end touch-up and a new grille.

But here, first impressions are deceiving. On the inside, the 2013 Ram 1500 gets a much-improved design; and combined with some astonishing fuel economy improvements, it's a standout.

Inside, the Ram gets a redesigned center stack, with new climate controls and a version of Chrysler's Uconnect Touch interface. And top-of-the-line Laramie models will become even more plush and luxury-like. But design-wise, it's the automaker's decision to make the shifter a rotary dial—rather than a column stalk or console lever—that might cause the biggest stir.

Chrysler is anticipating about a 20-percent improvement in fuel efficiency in both V-6 and V-8 Ram models—and that's without a hybrid system. Instead, the automaker has turned to tactics like grille shutters, a new eight-speed automatic transmission, and an engine stop-start system. Oh, and there's a new frame underpinning it all. V-6 models will become considerably quicker and more able as well, thanks to a new 305-hp, 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6.

Take a look at these pictures—especially those of the interior—to get a glimpse of the changes, then see this post on the changes, as well as ourpreview of the 2013 Ram, plus all the latest from the New York Auto Show.

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2014 Chevrolet Impala Live Photos: 2012 New York Auto Show

Chevrolet's current Impala feels a bit like an afterthought in GM's passenger-car lineup, but that's soon due to change; the new 2014 Chevrolet Impala unveiled at the New York Auto Show

The new sedan is officially the tenth generation of the Impala, although the nameplate has been applied to some very different products over many decades. What matters is that the new 2014 Impala is built on a completely new platform (now shared with the Buick LaCrosse, and related to the upcoming 2013 Cadillac XTS) and should have a far superior interior (one of the weaknesses of the current, very stark Impala), along top-notch refinement.

Design-wise, the Impala gets a front end that bears a strong likeness to that of the new 2013 Chevrolet Traverse, also revealed at New York, as well as the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu; particularly of interest is the more bulbous, extended rear wheelhouse, which transitions neatly into the rear styling.

Powertrains for the new Impala include a 182-horsepower, 2.4-liter four, which is expected to get 35 mpg on the highway, and a 303-hp, 3.6-liter V-6. Both get a six-speed automatic transmission, and all Impalas are front-wheel drive. MyLink now taps into a suite of connectivity possibilities through smartphones and media players, with some models getting an eight-inch LCD touch screen. Expect refinement to be superb as well, with new measures including active noise cancellation in four-cylinder models.

See our live shots of the 2014 Chevrolet Impala here; and for more information, see our 2014 Chevrolet Impala preview. You'll also want to check out all the latest from the New York Auto Show over at MotorAuthority.

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2013 Chevrolet Traverse Live Photos: 2012 New York Auto Show

Last week, Chevrolet revealed some extensive changes to its full-size Traverse crossover for 2013. But its official debut—and our first look at the vehicle up close—was here at the New York Auto Show.

Just as early pictures suggested, there aren't any major changes to the exterior styling of the 2013 Chevrolet Traverse, although it does get a new face, with a fresh grille design (three-bar upper, and two-bar lower); pair that with a more sculpted hood and updated front end, and it's a new look—albeit a somewhat blander one, to our eyes.

The more significant change is inside, and it addresses what has been a Traverse shortcoming up until now. Materials have been updated throughout for 2013, with soft-touch surfaces for the instrument panel and upper door trims, and most of the dull dark gray plastics have been phased out. A MyLink touch-screen system is top and center, providing easy Bluetooth connectivity for phones and media players, as well as Pandora and Stitcher integration. There's also a new front center airbag; together with the new 2013 Buick Enclave, it's a class exclusive.

Otherwise, configurations haven't changed all that much. The Traverse retains the SmartSlide feature that makes access to the third row quite easy, and it's powered by the same 288-hp, 3.6-liter V-6—although the six-speed automatic has been recalibrated for smoother shifts.

Take a look at these pictures of the 2013 Chevrolet Traverse, direct from the floor of the New York Auto Show, to get a better idea of the changes in store for this big family vehicle. Then see our preview page on the 2013 Traverse for all the rest of the info.

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Subaru Outback Vs. Toyota Venza: Compare Cars

If you're looking for a vehicle that's a little taller and more versatile than conventional sedans or wagons, yet more carlike in appearance and comfort compared to most crossovers and utility vehicles, the Subaru Outback and Toyota Venzaare two models worth considering.

Going just by their specs, these two models look pretty closely aligned. They're both about the length of a mid-size sedan, but with some added height; and they both offer a choice of four- or six-cylinder engines. But the truth is that in driving personality, in image, and in purpose,  the Subaru Outback and Toyota Venza are really quite different vehicles, appealing in most cases to a different type of buyer altogether.

First off, the Subaru Outback--if the name isn't enough of a hint--aims to look somewhat rugged. While it's essentially a wagon version of the Legacy sedan, Subaru has in recent years worked to make it look brawnier than ever on the outside, resorting to exaggerated wheel arches, thick roof pillars, and a taller stance that brings it a more butch look. The Venza is different in that it's a unique body style--sort of wagon, sort of a five-door hatchback or wagon--with some height built in. Design-wise, it's smooth and sleek, but there's nothing daring, brash, or rugged about it and the model makes no claim to the off-road trail. Inside, these models go in different directions, with the Outback's interior somewhat simple and restrained, while the Venza's interior has broad curves and more overt styling that reminds us of minivan or crossover cabins.

In performance, these two models also occupy very different spaces. The Venza, quite simply, drives like a somewhat taller Camry; it's a very competent performer, but the driving experience is seldom exciting--even with the strong, smooth 268-hp V-6 that's available. Meanwhile the Outback feels--and is--lighter than the Venza, and it steers and handles with more agility and engagement. The base four-cylinder and CVT setup isn't our favorite, but it performs well while delivering impressive fuel economy. While off-roading isn't even on the Venza's map (the Toyotadoes offer an on-road AWD system), the Subaru really shines when you leave the pavement; its stiff structure, high ground clearance, and sophisticated all-wheel drive system all help to give it more capability than some trucky-looking SUVs. And if you want a manual transmission, you'll need to go for the Outback; there's no such thing in the Venza.

If the Subaru is the clear winner for those who want to drive, or take to the backwoods, it's more of a tossup inside. The Venza has an upright, high seating position, which a lot of shoppers will like, as they can get in and out easier. Its seating is also comfortable for adults in front and in back--although we don't think the Venza is as versatile for cargo. On the other hand, the Outback's interior feels like it was designed for a roomy interior, and there's plenty of cargo capability, although we have noted that it's a bit behind the curve in cabin refinement.

Both of these models have great ratings safety ratings from the IIHS, and they're 2012 Top Safety Picks, but they fail to make top marks in federal crash tests; the Outback gets four-star results in multiple categories, while the Venza has a worrisome three-star rating for frontal impact. Rearward visibility can be an issue in either model, but both are available with a rearview camera system.

In looking at features, it's again nearly a tie--unless you're comparing base models. If your budget is tight, you can get a base Outback for $24,070, while a base Venza is $28,235--and with the Subaru, you get all-wheel drive for that price. Upgrade to the top-of-the-line trims, like the Venza Limited or the Outback Limited, and both models can feel a lot like luxury vehicles--with high-end audio, navigation, leather seats, and back-seat video entertainment systems. At this level, though, the Venza still costs about $5k more--and it starts to feel a lot like the Lexus RX 350, which is only a few thousand more. 

Altogether, the Outback's value for the money is pretty hard to beat, and for most shoppers, it's the winner here. Although it doesn't completely leave the Venza in the dust in all respects--and there will definitely be people who prefer the design and feel of the Venza--the Subaru is a compelling package that's more versatile and can fit a much wider range of needs.

2012 Subaru Outback	2012 Toyota Venza
Meta Rating
7.8Like any all-around athlete, the 2012 Subaru Outback blends capable performance and rewarding handling, surprising interior volume and great versatility, with versatility and enough high-end options to keep most buyers quite happy.	7.4The 2012 Toyota Venza isn't pulse-raising, but its smooth styling and calming, practical, comfortable interior provide just what some families or empty-nesters want.

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2012 Chevrolet Corvette

The Chevrolet Corvette has long been a top performance bargain, but with improvements over the past three years, plus upgrades for 2012, the lineup just keeps getting better.

Available in both coupe and convertible forms in base and Grand Sport trims, or coupe-only in Z06 and ZR1 trims, the Corvette is an edgy and instantly recognizable silhouette no matter which you choose. The shovel-nosed, stub-tail look has held up well in the current generation, but the interior is looking dated--and with a new 'Vette on the way for 2014, it's not likely to change much next year, either.

Three different V-8 engines are available depending on the model chosen: the base Corvette and Grand Sport get a 6.2-liter LS3 V-8 engine rated at up to 436 horsepower; the Z06 gets its 505 horsepower from a 7.0-liter LS7; and the ZR1 uses a supercharged 6.2-liter supercharged LS9 to put out 638 horsepower. Whichever you choose, performance is electricifying with either automatic or manual transmissions. 

The manual-transmission models come with standard launch control, helping them reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, with the Z06 shaving that to 3.9 seconds and the ZR1 a scant 3.4 seconds. Despite the obvious speed, the Corvette range handles well, too, with crisp, communicative steering. Excellent brakes are also par for the Corvette course.

Despite being low-slung and relatively compact, the Corvette is quite comfortable. Ample shoulder and hip room are offset somewhat by less than ideal headroom for taller drivers. Materials and design of the interior are much improved over previous version of the Corvette, but still fall short of the exterior's promise, however.

Although the Corvette, like most high-end sports cars, hasn't been crash-tested, it is packed with ample safety equipment including standard front and side driver and passenger airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability and traction control. The only complaint in this department might be compromised visibility due to the low seating position and smallish windows.

Standard features include XM Satellite Radio, auxiliary audio input, dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, push-button start, steering wheel audio controls, power driver's seat, and more. Upgrade options include a heads-up display, Bluetooth, satellite navigation, and a wide range of performance enhancements and interior and exterior appearance packages.

2 Door Coupe w/1LT Quick Specs

Gas Mileage16 mpg City/26 mpg Hwy

EngineGas V8, 6.2L

EPA ClassTwo Seater

Style NameCoupe 1LT

DrivetrainRear Wheel Drive

Passenger Capacity2

Passenger Doors2

Body Style2dr Car

TransmissionTransmission, 6-speed manual, short-throw includes launch control

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2012 BMW 7-Series

Even several years after its release, we still think that the BMW 7-Series is one of the best-conceived big sedans on the market—and one of the best BMW has produced.

Why? For one, the awkward proportions and surfaces of the 2002-2008 model are gone, with the slim, exciting proportions of the current car agreeable to most eyes. Performance is better than ever, too, and a well-networked set of electronic componentry somehow works magic to assure that the 7-Series models drive with the quintessential BMW feel—as if they were much lighter than they are.

There's a version, practically, for anyone well-funded enough to lay down a minimum of $70,000 for a four-door sedan. The in-line six versions are sprightly enough; the twin-turbo V-8s have the gusto to pull off triple-digit autobahn passes—yes, even if you just want the bragging rights. And for those who want to maintain a little more green credibility, the ActiveHybrid 7, with its V-8 and hybrid system, is a particularly strong performer while still earning a 24-mpg highway rating.

Whether you go with the standard-length version or the extended-length (Li) version of the 7-Series, you'll find interior space vast. Long-wheelbase cars have chauffeur-style room for front and rear-seat passengers, and the ride is about as quiet as you can imagine. And with pretty much every typical luxury-car convenience standard here, the options are left for items like night vision, a Head Up Display, or custom wood and leather trim.

With a base price in the low seventies in the 740i, climbing to more than $135,000 for the 760Li, the 7-Series covers a wide range of purposes and budgets, but in any of these categories it remains remarkably well designed, tech-savvy, and opulent flagship sedan.

Quick Specs

EngineTurbocharged Gas I6, 3.0L

EPA ClassLarge

Style NameSedan

DrivetrainRear Wheel Drive

Passenger Capacity5

Passenger Doors4

Body Style4dr Car

Transmission6-speed automatic transmission -inc: automatic & manual shift modes w/fully synchronized electronic gear changes

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2013 Toyota Camry

2013 Toyota Camry

2013 Toyota Camry isn’t likely to stray in the looks, features – or prices – Toyota laid out with the fully redesigned 2012 Camry. That marked the first all-new version of this car since model-year 2007. Despite fresh styling, enhanced telematics, and fuel economy, Toyota kept intact the core appeal that makes Camry this type of popular midsize-car choice. A brand new exterior color or two and maybe a small tweak to equipment or options constitute the extent of likely changes for that 2013 Camry. Toyota, however, will be watching closely to determine what course corrections might be necessary to battle a formidable array of redesigned 2013 Camry rivals, including the 2013 Honda Accord, 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, 2013 Nissan Altima, and 2013 Ford Fusion.

2013 Toyota Camry’s styling is a virtual carbon copy of the all-new look that came online using the model-year 2012 redesign. Contemporary but conservative is the best description. Creased bodywork, the suggestion of a wedge profile, along with a trendy big-mouth lower grille will return. Dimensions is going to be unaltered and the 2013 Toyota Camry will again be a spacious midsize sedan with comfortable seating along with a family-vacation-sized trunk.

The 2013 Toyota Camry will reprise a front-wheel-drive configuration, which places the weight of the engine and transmission within the nose of the car. That promotes efficient packaging and aids traction in rain and snow by concentrating mass within the tires which propel the vehicle. Rear-wheel-drive cars have better-balanced road manners, but Toyota’s goal this is a predictable, driver-friendly character, and Camry delivers.

2013 Toyota Camry will stay mechanically unadventurous — a minimum of when it comes to gaudy horsepower figures or cutting-edge suspension design. Indeed, Camry’s knack for over-delivering on ordinary specifications is a big reason for its wide appeal. Camry is honed to attain a remarkable degree of refinement and given its modest aspirations, it provides good all-around performance, too.

Even while prime rivals like the 2013 Malibu and 2013 Fusion follow the example of the Hyundai Sonata and transition to an all-four-cylinder-engine lineup, expect Toyota to come back the 2013 Toyota Camry with the traditional selection of four- and six-cylinder engines.

Pricing for the 2013 Toyota Camry wasn’t announced in time for this review but expect a base price range close to $22,500-$31,000. (Estimated base prices within this review include the manufacturer’s mandatory destination fee. For 2012 Toyota cars, that fee was $760. Toyotas bought from Southeastern and Gulf states may have a different fee.)

Expect base prices of around $22,500 for that 2013 Toyota Camry L model and $24,000 for the 2013 Toyota Camry LE. The 2013 LE should again add to the L such standard features as variable intermittent windshield wipers and the steering-wheel Bluetooth and audio controls.

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