Autoblog Canada http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.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/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Cadillac to recall 20,000 SRX models over wheels that could fall off]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Cadillac SRX - front three-quarter view, silver

A potential issue with the lug nuts on 19,871 units of the 2013 Cadillac SRX in the US and Canada has lead to a recall of the luxury crossover. Those lug nuts that have a Teflon topcoat, identified by their bluish tint, could loosen and cause "creaking, rattling or grinding noises or steering vibrations." In the worst case scenario, a wheel could fall off, but there have been no reports of that happening, nor any reports of accidents or injuries due to the issue.

This is the second recall action on the SRX over the last few months. In March, Cadillac recalled 27,000 SRX models over a transmission programming issue. General Motors will begin notifying customers with the potentially faulty parts on June 3, at which time they can take their vehicles to dealers to have the tires rotated and new nuts installed. A further 7,397 SRXs exported from North America also face the recall action.

Cadillac to recall 20,000 SRX models over wheels that could fall off originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 10:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 cadillac srxcadillaccadillac recallcadillac srxcadillac srx recallcadillacsrxrecallgmlug nutnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallsrx recall Thu, 23 May 2013 10:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580817/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580817/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/cadillac-to-recall-20-000-srx-models-over-wheels-that-could-fall/20580817/article-detail.xml 20580817 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-cadillac-srx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-cadillac-srx.jpg <![CDATA[Expedition drives from Russia to Canada over North Pole...]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Bus expedition from Russia to Canada via North Pole - shot on ice

No, a Ford Expedition did not drive from Russia to Canada via the North Pole, but that's exactly what a team of intrepid explorers accomplished recently. Using specially-modified buses with massive tires, the group slowly drove 2,485 miles in 70 days over drifting ice, occasionally using a pickaxe to clear a path and staying on guard for chasms that could open up and plunge the team into the frigid arctic waters. Average speeds were about 6 mph, "at the speed of a (farm) tractor." While the big tires technically allowed the buses to float if the need arose, the team preferred to stay out of the water to keep the suspension from getting coated in thick, hard ice. Falling in on foot would mean almost certain death.

According to Phys.org, the buses were powered by Toyota diesel engines, but were built with prototype parts from a previous driving expedition to the North Pole. Right now, the machines are parked in a garage in Canada's Resolute Bay while the the team rests up with family back home. They plan to continue their trek to back across the Bering Straight to Russia. If successful, the team may eventually offer a version of their buses for commercial sale.

Expedition drives from Russia to Canada over North Pole... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bering straightcanadadriving to the north poleexpeditionnorth poleresolute bayrussiatoyotavassili Ielaguine Wed, 22 May 2013 08:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576712/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/20576712/article-detail.xml 20576712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/russia-canada-arctic-expedition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/russia-canada-arctic-expedition-628.jpg <![CDATA[What does a world-class downhill skateboarder drive? Something very cool]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/world-class-downhill-skateboarder-car-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/world-class-downhill-skateboarder-car-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/world-class-downhill-skateboarder-car-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Kevin Reimer has an interesting career and a fascinating car. The resident of Vancouver, BC is a professional downhill skateboarder - which we now know is a thing you can be - who sees a lot of commonality between his extreme occupation and his cherry 1991 Nissan Skyline GT-R.

The subjects of the latest Petrolicious joint, Racing Champions, Reimer waxes philosophical about skateboarding and driving down some of the same routes. You'll not be surprised to hear that riding the curves of a mountain slope, be it on a deck or in a bucket seat, both rely on grip and nerve in various measure. Scroll down to see for yourself, and don't miss the rest of our Petrolicious library when you're done.

Continue reading What does a world-class downhill skateboarder drive? Something very cool

What does a world-class downhill skateboarder drive? Something very cool originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1991 nissan skyline gt-rnissannissan skylinenissan skyline gt-rpetroliciousr32video Thu, 09 May 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563842/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563842/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/world-class-downhill-skateboarder-car-video/20563842/article-detail.xml 20563842 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/petrolicious-skyline-gt-r-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/petrolicious-skyline-gt-r-628.jpg <![CDATA[GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Controversial Chevrolet Trax ad - screencap

In what can only be described as a growing trend, another automaker finds itself in trouble for an ad that critics are calling offensive. A new television and internet ad for the Chevrolet Trax subcompact crossover is under fire for its soundtrack, which a Chinese newspaper has labeled "racist."

The commercial blends the not-sold-in-the-US vehicle with a Flapper-era backdrop and soundtrack, and it's the latter that has General Motors spokeswoman Ryndee Carney issuing an on-the-record apology to Advertising Age: "Our intent was not to offend anyone and we're deeply sorry if anyone was offended... we're reviewing our advertising approval processes to make sure this doesn't happen again." The song in question, Booty Swing, is performed by Austrian DJ and producer Parov Stelar, refers to "the land of Fu Manchu" a place in which the girls sing "ching, ching, chop-suey." The South China Morning Post was among the first to publish a story criticizing the commercial as racist.

The ad, known as The Original Reborn, has been running in Canada - where the vehicle is on sale - and AdAge also reports that it has been featured on the automaker's European websites. Since the controversy erupted, Chevrolet has since substituted a new version of the ad that omits the lyrics, but you can view the original by scrolling below.

Controversial ads are nothing new for this industry, but there has been a bumper crop of them lately, including a recent Hyundai suicide-themed spot and a series of Indian-market Ford print ads featuring celebrity caricatures making light of S&M-tinged kidnappings.

UPDATE: A video of the song itself has been added below - it spells out the lyrics in question.

Continue reading GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE]

GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 chevy traxbanned adsbooty swingchevychevy traxcontroversial adsoriginal rebornparov stelarvideo Thu, 02 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556212/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556212/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/20556212/article-detail.xml 20556212 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-trax-controversial-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-trax-controversial-ad.jpg <![CDATA[Explosion at Magna plant injures workers]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/explosion-at-magna-plant-injures-workers/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/explosion-at-magna-plant-injures-workers/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/explosion-at-magna-plant-injures-workers/#comments Filed under: ,

Magna (supplier) logoAn explosion at a Magna International divisional plant in Newmarket, ON, a manufacturing facility for Dortec Industries, occurred on Wednesday afternoon. Some nine people were injured in the accident and five or six (reports vary) were sent to the hospital. Magna has reported that all workers have since been released from the hospital.

Reporting by Canada's National Post indicates that the explosion was described by Magna as a "minor arc flash explosion," on the manufacturing line, and notes that there was no fire as a result of it. All of the Dortec plant's 200 employees were evacuated after the event. A full investigation into the blast is still ongoing, but so far no structural damage to the facility has been reported.

Magna International is a major automotive supplier, with BMW, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Toyota and Volkswagen among its clients. Dortec Industries makes door modules, locks and other components for Magna. The company has stated that the explosion is not expected to impact its customers.

Explosion at Magna plant injures workers originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dortecdortec industriesmagnamagna internationalplant explosionsupplier Thu, 02 May 2013 10:47:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556046/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556046/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/explosion-at-magna-plant-injures-workers/20556046/article-detail.xml 20556046 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/magna-logo-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/magna-logo-250.jpg <![CDATA[Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Honda is recalling 43,782 examples of the 2012 and 2013 Fit Sport in the US and close to 2,000 more in Canada. During federal compliance testing it was discovered that the software for the Vehicle Stability Assist allows an excessive tilt angle before applying the brakes to prevent a crash. The issue only affects Fit Sports equipped with a certain kind of tire.

Honda will notify owners in mid-May, at which time owners can take their cars to dealers to have the stability control software updated free of charge. There's a press release from Honda below with more details.

Continue reading Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue

Honda recalls 2012-13 Fit Sport models over stability control issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> hondahonda fithonda fit recallhonda fit sportNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsarecallstability control Mon, 29 Apr 2013 08:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550795/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550795/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/honda-recalls-2012-13-fit-sport-models-over-stability-control-is/20550795/article-detail.xml 20550795 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-honda-fit-sport_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-honda-fit-sport.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki ending auto sales in Canada, too]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/suzuki-ending-auto-sales-in-canada-too/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/suzuki-ending-auto-sales-in-canada-too/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/suzuki-ending-auto-sales-in-canada-too/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2010 Suzuki Kizashi Sport - front three-quarter view, red

Suzuki of Japan has reportedly made the decision that almost everyone assumed it would make when it announced it was leaving the US market: when the 2014 model year concludes, it will no longer sell cars in Canada. With six employees overseeing its auto business in Canada and a dealer network that has shrunk to 55 outlets in the country, we can't say we're shocked.

At the time of the US announcement, however, the senior VP of sales and marketing in the automotive division of Suzuki Canada said it would be able to survive on its own because, among other reasons, Canadians prefer smaller, more fuel-efficient cars that fit the company's offerings. Five months later, after some time to think about a 30-percent drop in sales to open up 2013 instead of the 1.4-percent increase in sales that Suzuki Canada posted last year, things have evidently changed.

The Globe and Mail reports that as is in the US, Suzuki's motorcycle, ATV and marine divisions in Canada will remain.

Suzuki ending auto sales in Canada, too originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> canadachapter 11suzukisuzuki bankruptcysuzuki canadasuzuki chapter 11suzuki closing Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:52:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20519003/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20519003/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/suzuki-ending-auto-sales-in-canada-too/20519003/article-detail.xml 20519003 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/suzukicanada_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/suzukicanada.jpg <![CDATA[Massive Alberta highway pileup sends 300 people to hospital after crash]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/22/massive-alberta-highway-pileup-sends-300-people-to-hospital-afte/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/22/massive-alberta-highway-pileup-sends-300-people-to-hospital-afte/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/22/massive-alberta-highway-pileup-sends-300-people-to-hospital-afte/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Alberta, Canada snowstorm chain-reaction crash aftermath

A massive pileup in Canada was the result of a huge snowstorm that struck a busy stretch of Alberta highway between Edmonton and Calgary near Leduc, sending over 300 people to the hospital and causing what Alberta Health Services are treating as "a mass casualty event."

Reports on social media indicate hundreds of cars, transport trucks and buses ended up smashed and scattered across both directions of the highway, with many vehicles being violently tossed around or landing in ditches.

Unsurprisingly, Royal Canadian Mounted Police are blaming blowing snow, icy road conditions and poor visibility for the countless crash pileups. Emergency services reports suggest roughly 300 people were taken to hospital and about 100 of those patients required further medical attention. Fortunately, there's been no reports of any fatalities thus far, though crash victims were transported to nearby hospitals for various injuries.

"Several vehicles and a tractor trailer are off the road and in the ditch due to slippery road conditions," said Leduc RCMP constable Tim Gaultois, adding it will be sometime before the full extent of the carnage is known. The numerous collisions also forced police to shut down the main highway and divert traffic to alternate routes, creating traffic chaos and lengthy lines for many Alberta drivers. Scroll down to watch a Reuters video news report.

Continue reading Massive Alberta highway pileup sends 300 people to hospital after crash

Massive Alberta highway pileup sends 300 people to hospital after crash originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> albertaalberta clippercar crashchain-reaction crashpileupvideo Fri, 22 Mar 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20514838/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20514838/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/22/massive-alberta-highway-pileup-sends-300-people-to-hospital-afte/20514838/article-detail.xml 20514838 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/lead.jpg <![CDATA[Campagna launches T-Rex 16S with six-cylinder BMW power]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/campagna-launches-t-rex-16stm-with-six-cylinder-bmw-power/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/campagna-launches-t-rex-16stm-with-six-cylinder-bmw-power/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/campagna-launches-t-rex-16stm-with-six-cylinder-bmw-power/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Campagna T-Rex 16STM with six-cylinder BMW power - white - front three-quarter view
If the Campagna T-Rex 14R wasn't your cup of tea, the Canadian maker of high-performance trikes has just introduced a smooth new arrival that might change your tune - the T-Rex 16S. Unlike its sibling which is powered by a 1.4-liter four-cylinder screamer sourced from a Kawasaki Ninja, the new Campagna boasts a slightly larger 1.6-liter six-cylinder sourced from BMW. Power is down just a bit, but torque improves (rated output is 160 horsepower and 129 pound-feet), meaning the 1,100-pound-or-so trike with its sequential six-speed transmission should easily crack the 60 mph benchmark in less than five seconds and provide plenty of flexibility around town.

Offered in eight different colors (Winter White is pictured above), the two-passenger three-wheeler features a tubular chassis with an integrated roll cage and three-point seatbelts inside a fiberglass body shell with carbon-fiber accents. Perhaps thanks to automotive-type controls that should be familiar to anyone with a driver's license, Campagna says that the majority of its customers are high-performance car enthusiasts attracted to the T-Rex models for their driving stability and unique looks.

Campagna launches T-Rex 16S with six-cylinder BMW power originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> campagnacampagna t-rexcampagna t-rex 16stmt-rexthree wheelerthree-wheelertrike Thu, 14 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20501035/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20501035/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/14/campagna-launches-t-rex-16stm-with-six-cylinder-bmw-power/20501035/article-detail.xml 20501035 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/campagna628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/campagna628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford finally issues recall for 230K minivans over rust problems]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/ford-finally-issues-recall-for-230k-minivans-over-rust-problems/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/ford-finally-issues-recall-for-230k-minivans-over-rust-problems/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/ford-finally-issues-recall-for-230k-minivans-over-rust-problems/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The rust issue in the rear wheel wells of 2004-2007 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans has finally led to a recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began an investigation into the matter in 2011, said investigation being upgraded to an engineering analysis a year later while NHTSA tried to figure out how many model years should be included in the assessment.

Ford has decided to recall all of the 230,000 minivans potentially affected, namely those sold in salt-belt states and countries like Canada. The excess rust in the rear wheel wells was also able to prevent the third-row seats from locking to the floor of the minivan. To repair the problem, owners can take their minivans to dealers, and the dealers will place new panels in the wheel wells, replace the third-row seat mounting brackets and relocate the latches to an area away from any corrosion.

Ford says it will begin notifying owners during the last week of March.

Ford finally issues recall for 230K minivans over rust problems originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fordfreestarmercurymontereyNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsarecallrust Sun, 10 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20496119/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20496119/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/10/ford-finally-issues-recall-for-230k-minivans-over-rust-problems/20496119/article-detail.xml 20496119 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/fordfreestarrecall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/fordfreestarrecall.jpg <![CDATA[Hot Wheels' Twitter-enabled vending machine coughs up free Camaro diecasts]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hot-wheels-twitter-enabled-vending-machine-coughs-up-free-camar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hot-wheels-twitter-enabled-vending-machine-coughs-up-free-camar/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/hot-wheels-twitter-enabled-vending-machine-coughs-up-free-camar/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



There are still plenty of companies that haven't gotten the whole social media thing down pat yet, but Hot Wheels isn't one of them. During the recent Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, Hot Wheels created a lot of buzz for itself by using a vending machine filled with Chevrolet Camaro models, but instead of money to get the cars, show attendees just had to use Twitter.

To get the free car, people were asked to send a tweet to Hot Wheels Canada saying what they liked about the new Hot Wheels Edition Camaro, and including the #ChevyCIAS hashtag. This seemed to be a popular marketing tool, too, as AdWeek reports that the @HotWheelsCanada account more than tripled in followers during the course of the 10-day show. Looking ahead, this could open up even more innovative marketing possibilities using social media.

Check out the video posted below to watch how it works, and while the auto show has ended and the free-car giveaway has too, we're almost certain that some of the 1,500 freebies will make their way onto eBay.

Continue reading Hot Wheels' Twitter-enabled vending machine coughs up free Camaro diecasts

Hot Wheels' Twitter-enabled vending machine coughs up free Camaro diecasts originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> canadian international auto showchevrolethot wheelstwitter Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20479656/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20479656/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/27/hot-wheels-twitter-enabled-vending-machine-coughs-up-free-camar/20479656/article-detail.xml 20479656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chevrolet-hot-wheels_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/chevrolet-hot-wheels.jpg <![CDATA[GM won't sell 2014 Chevrolet SS in Canada]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/gm-wont-sell-2014-chevrolet-ss-in-canada/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/gm-wont-sell-2014-chevrolet-ss-in-canada/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/21/gm-wont-sell-2014-chevrolet-ss-in-canada/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet SS - front three-quarter view

Allow us to be the first to extend our condolences to our friends to the north. General Motors has announced the 2014 Chevrolet SS will not be available in Canada. The Globe and Mail reports the automaker has confirmed the high-performance sedan won't hit Canadian dealers, though GM hasn't offered up any reasoning as to why that is.

Buyers here in the US of A, meanwhile, can look forward to getting their hands on the 415-horspower, rear-wheel drive SS by late summer. Something tells us it won't be long after that before Canadian officials start seeing individually imported 6.2-liter V8 four-doors in their neighborhoods. Fortunately, Canadian buyers will still be able to take home the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette. The C7 bowed at the Canadian International Auto Show last week, reportedly drawing sizable crowds and interest.

GM won't sell 2014 Chevrolet SS in Canada originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 chevrolet sscanadachevroletchevrolet sschevyss Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20471458/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20471458/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/21/gm-wont-sell-2014-chevrolet-ss-in-canada/20471458/article-detail.xml 20471458 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-ss-004-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-ss-004-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi Mirage bows in Montreal without a name, Canadian sales promised]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/20/mitsubishi-mirage-bows-in-montreal-without-a-name-canadian-sale/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/20/mitsubishi-mirage-bows-in-montreal-without-a-name-canadian-sale/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/20/mitsubishi-mirage-bows-in-montreal-without-a-name-canadian-sale/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The Detroit Auto Show had plenty of major debuts for North American car buyers, but the Montreal Auto Show is being used for the North American debut of a new subcompact hatchback from Mitsubishi. Although this car is unnamed, it is almost identical to the redesigned Mirage we saw back at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Show (and has been on sale in Asian markets such as Thailand since last year), but it is unclear if the car will carry this name when it goes on sale for our neighbors to the north starting this fall.

Aside from a slightly less annoying shade the of green we saw the car painted in at the Tokyo show, there are a few changes made for the car's Canadian debut. The biggest difference is that it is almost three inches longer, which is likely a result of the new rear fascia that is also visually different with some altered lines and small, circular reflectors. Other changes include a bigger three-cylinder engine (with a 1.2-liter displacement instead of the Tokyo car's 1.0-liter engine) and headlights that have new amber lenses for side reflectors.

There is still no word as to whether or not we'll see this new car in Mitsubishi's US lineup anytime soon, but it does seem like a good competitor against cars like that Mazda2, Chevrolet Spark and Hyundai Accent.

Mitsubishi has provided a press release for this Canadian hatchback, which we've posted after the jump.

Continue reading Mitsubishi Mirage bows in Montreal without a name, Canadian sales promised

Mitsubishi Mirage bows in Montreal without a name, Canadian sales promised originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Jan 2013 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mitsubishi miragemitsubishimitsubishi canadamontrealmontreal auto show Sun, 20 Jan 2013 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20432376/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20432376/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/20/mitsubishi-mirage-bows-in-montreal-without-a-name-canadian-sale/20432376/article-detail.xml 20432376 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/mitsubishi-montreal-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/mitsubishi-montreal-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda surprises with Gear concept in Montreal]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/17/honda-surprises-with-gear-concept-in-montreal/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/17/honda-surprises-with-gear-concept-in-montreal/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/17/honda-surprises-with-gear-concept-in-montreal/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Honda Gear Concept Study

It's not often that a major automobile manufacturer debuts a brand-new concept at the Montreal International Auto Show - mostly because it takes place concurrently with the massive show in Detroit - but here we are with the so-called Honda Gear Concept Study Model, which was just uncovered by our friendly neighbors to the north.

According to the automaker, the Gear "demonstrates Honda's innovative approach to providing the automotive answer for young, urban, Gen-Y lifestyles. Inspired by fixed-gear bicycles... Gear is simple and utilitarian, but also customizable, connected and full of personality." It is apparently "practical but fun, customizable, connected and affordable. Everything that young, discerning urban buyers would want in a car," according to Dave Marek, Design Director at Honda R&D Americas.

We don't know anything else - what might lie underhood, how it is "connected" or at what price point it might potentially be sold at. Check out our high-res image gallery above and the press release below and you'll know just about as much as we do.

Continue reading Honda surprises with Gear concept in Montreal

Honda surprises with Gear concept in Montreal originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> geargear concept studyhondahonda gearmontrealmontreal international auto show Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20432341/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20432341/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/17/honda-surprises-with-gear-concept-in-montreal/20432341/article-detail.xml 20432341 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/honda-gear-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/honda-gear-opt.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Daily Show</i> takes a long, hard look at the Detroit-Canada bridge fiasco]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/daily-show-takes-a-long-hard-look-at-the-detroit-canada/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/daily-show-takes-a-long-hard-look-at-the-detroit-canada/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/daily-show-takes-a-long-hard-look-at-the-detroit-canada/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Detroit Ambassador Bridge

You mean to tell me that one man owns the busiest international border crossing in the entire United States? One that carries about 25 percent of all trade between the US and Canada? Ha! With apologies to George C. Parker, if you believe that, I've got a bridge to sell you.

Wait. This is for real, as in, a real bridge? Apparently so. The Ambassador Bridge, which connects Detroit, Michigan with Windsor, Ontario, Canada is in fact owned by a billionaire Grosse Pointe, Michigan resident named Manuel "Matty" Moroun. Moroun is none too pleased with the prospect of a new bridge, proposed years ago and backed by the US and Canadian governments, competing with his own. The billionaire went so far as to fund a multi-million-dollar campaign seeking to create a constitutional amendment that would require a statewide vote to fund such a project. The proposition was voted down, meaning the bridge project could proceed.

We haven't yet explained the best part: Canada plans to pay for the entire bridge. That's right. The Canadian government has agreed to pay for the construction of the bridge, the land in Michigan that would need to be acquired and the construction of necessary on-ramps to Detroit's I-75 highway. Which would leave Michigan and its residents with, well, absolutely zero financial obligation.

Here's where we point out that a huge amount of automotive trade is carried over the Ambassador bridge. In fact, according to the New International Trade Crossing website, Chrysler has estimated that "delays at the Detroit-Windsor crossing adds more than $600 to the average car manufactured in the Michigan-Ontario region."

Leave it up to The Daily Show to turn such an oddly controversial topic into a hilarious video segment. We suggest you check it out below, and pay special attention to the parody of Chrysler's well-known "Born in Detroit" marketing campaign.

Continue reading Daily Show takes a long, hard look at the Detroit-Canada bridge fiasco

Daily Show takes a long, hard look at the Detroit-Canada bridge fiasco originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ambassador bridgebridge to canadacanadadetroitdetroit bridgemanual morounmatty morounmichigannew international trade crossingwindsor Thu, 10 Jan 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20425728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20425728/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/10/daily-show-takes-a-long-hard-look-at-the-detroit-canada/20425728/article-detail.xml 20425728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ambassador-bridge_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ambassador-bridge.jpg <![CDATA[New Vancouver bridge closed because design causes "ice bombs" to rain down on cars [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/new-vancouver-bridge-closed-because-design-causes-ice-bombs-to/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/new-vancouver-bridge-closed-because-design-causes-ice-bombs-to/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/22/new-vancouver-bridge-closed-because-design-causes-ice-bombs-to/#comments Filed under: , ,



Spanning 10 lanes of traffic, the Port Mann Bridge (shown in the rendering above) just outside of Vancouver, Canada is currently the widest bridge in the world. Unfortunately, it might also hold a new record for the shortest period of time a new bridge has remained open.

The cable-stayed bridge just opened to full traffic earlier this month, but on Wednesday it was shut down due to massive chunks of ice falling from the cables and striking vehicles, which sent at least two people to the hospital. According to CBC News, the bridge has since reopened to traffic, but apparently nothing has been done about the falling ice as the Vancouver area is slammed with a severe winter storm.

Construction of the bridge began back in 2009 at a cost of more than $3 billion, but it isn't clear if any changes are needed to prevent this sort of damage from happening in the future. Images of vehicles posted on The Province show damage that ranges from shattered windows and windshields to some pretty intense body damage. Scroll down to watch a news report from CBC News as well as a time-lapse video of the bridge's construction from August 2009 through January 2012.

Continue reading New Vancouver bridge closed because design causes "ice bombs" to rain down on cars [w/video]

New Vancouver bridge closed because design causes "ice bombs" to rain down on cars [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Dec 2012 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bridge design failurebridge safetybridgesice bombsport mann bridge Sat, 22 Dec 2012 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20408779/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20408779/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/22/new-vancouver-bridge-closed-because-design-causes-ice-bombs-to/20408779/article-detail.xml 20408779 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/port-mann-bridge-1356040547_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/port-mann-bridge-1356040547.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Camaro to be built in US once again]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/chevy-camaro-to-be-built-in-us-once-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/chevy-camaro-to-be-built-in-us-once-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/chevy-camaro-to-be-built-in-us-once-again/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Chevrolet Camaro 1LE

General Motors has announced that the next generation of the Chevrolet Camaro will once again be built in the United States, specifically at the Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant in Lansing, MI. The current Camaro has been assembled in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, since its introduction in 2010.

The automaker cites "lower capital investment and improved production efficiencies" as key reasons for the move - indeed, the Camaro is the only rear-wheel-drive vehicle made in Oshawa; the Buick Regal and Cadillac XTS are currently manufactured there, and the upcoming Chevrolet Impala will join the front-wheel-drive group in 2013. Meanwhile, the Lansing facility currently produces two rear-wheel-drive vehicles - the Cadillac ATS and CTS - which makes the Camaro a natural fit.

The Canadian Auto Workers Union is, as expected, none too pleased by the "callous and poorly thought-out" announcement, "reacting in anger and frustration" according to a statement. CAW National President Ken Lewenza added, "General Motors has once again shown a complete and utter disregard for its workers and also Canadians in general, whose tax dollars kept the company out of bankruptcy."

The CAW says that "GM must replace lost Camaro production on a one-to-one basis." The automaker's own statement says it will "continue to meet the production targets agreed to with the Canadian and Ontario governments during the 2009 restructuring." In any case, production of the current Camaro will continue in Ontario until the next-gen model is ready to go on sale sometime within the next few years.

Feel free to read statements from both General Motors and the CAW below.

Continue reading Chevy Camaro to be built in US once again

Chevy Camaro to be built in US once again originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> camarocanadacanadian auto workerscawchevroletgeneral motorsgmlansingontariooshawa Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:17:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20407500/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20407500/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/19/chevy-camaro-to-be-built-in-us-once-again/20407500/article-detail.xml 20407500 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-chevrolet-camaro-1le.jpg <![CDATA["Show or Display" rule used to import pair of Skylines into the US... legally]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/show-or-display-rule-used-to-import-pair-of-skylines-into-the/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/show-or-display-rule-used-to-import-pair-of-skylines-into-the/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/12/show-or-display-rule-used-to-import-pair-of-skylines-into-the/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



What's that old saying, "the grass is always greener" is it? That notion rings especially true for enthusiasts of foreign sports cars, where great efforts are often taken to import these supremely rare performance machines. Some of the more difficult cars to import are the right-hand-drive JDM sportscars like the Mazda RX-7 and Acura NSX. Of this assortment of 90's sports car awesomeness, perhaps the most lauded and difficult to import is the RHD Nissan Skyline GT-R, but someone just figured out how.

Our friends up North at Autoblog Canada recently chronicled the adventures of Sean Morris in attempting to import not one, but two R32 Nismo GT-Rs. Morris owns www.showordisplay.com, which brings to light a loophole for vehicles older than 21 years and of "historical or technological significance." We would argue that a Nismo GT-R has both.

According to Morris's site, the Environmental Protection Agency has emissions exemptions for vehicles that are 21 years or older, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration exemptions extend to vehicles older than 25 years. He continually followed up with the Department of Transportation, eventually giving up, but in September of this year he received a letter from NHTSA. The letter granted him permission to import any of the 560 (500 homologation production plus 60 racing versions) of the R32 Skyline GT-R.

He found chassis #383 and #500. The former was imported and sold to a buyer in Chicago, while he took ownership of the latter. Living with a vehicle under the Show and Display rules has its limitations. The car will have to meet EPA standards as well as pass California Air Resources Board (CARB) testing if sold in California. Furthermore, a "Show or Display" car can only be driven 2,500 miles per year. Many of these JDM vehicles have passed Japan's more rigorous "Shaken" testing and the mileage limitation is a small price to pay for legally achieving this longtime goal of Morris and others with their minds set on importing a terrific crop of foreign cars.

"Show or Display" rule used to import pair of Skylines into the US... legally originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> nismo skyline gt-rnissannissan skyline gt-4r32 gt-rr32 skylineshow and display Wed, 12 Dec 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20399624/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20399624/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/12/show-or-display-rule-used-to-import-pair-of-skylines-into-the/20399624/article-detail.xml 20399624 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/show-or-display-skyline-gtr-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/show-or-display-skyline-gtr-628.jpg <![CDATA[Explosion at Bombardier R&D facility in Quebec leaves two badly injured [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/explosion-at-bombardier-randd-facility-in-quebec-leaves-two-badly/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/explosion-at-bombardier-randd-facility-in-quebec-leaves-two-badly/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/explosion-at-bombardier-randd-facility-in-quebec-leaves-two-badly/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Bombardier R&D facility explosion - news report screencap

Bombardier has closed its research and development complex in Valcourt, Quebec following an overnight explosion late last week. Two employees were left with severe burns after the incident, including a security guard. Both were taken to a local hospital for treatment and remain in medically induced comas. According to reports, local police heard the explosion and saw a ball of fire shoot into the sky before seeing the two men run from the building. Police say the damage appears to have emanated from a research lab, but firefighters were able to quickly get the blaze under control. Law enforcement believes the fire was accidental, but a full-fledged investigation is currently underway.

The complex is under construction as part of expansion efforts, and some have speculated the blast could have been caused by the work. There's no indication as to when the facility will reopen for business. In the interim, Bombardier has established a phone hotline to give employees and their family members information and support.

Bombardier Recreational Products spun off from Bombardier in 2003. It manufactures Ski-Doo snowmobile and jet ski recreational products, as well as Evinrude outboard motors and some ATVs. For more, watch the CBC News story about the blast in the video below.

Continue reading Explosion at Bombardier R&D facility in Quebec leaves two badly injured [w/video]

Explosion at Bombardier R&D facility in Quebec leaves two badly injured [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bombardierbombardier explosionbombardier recreational productscanadaevinrudeexplosionquebecvalcourtvideo Mon, 12 Nov 2012 15:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20377231/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20377231/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/12/explosion-at-bombardier-randd-facility-in-quebec-leaves-two-badly/20377231/article-detail.xml 20377231 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bombardier-valcourt-blast_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bombardier-valcourt-blast.jpg <![CDATA[New Ontario racetrack green-lit, hopes to woo NASCAR]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/canada-getting-a-new-racetrack-in-ontario/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/canada-getting-a-new-racetrack-in-ontario/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/canada-getting-a-new-racetrack-in-ontario/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Canadian Motor Speedway artist's rendering

You may think that NASCAR is exclusively an American sport, but it has quite a following in Canada, too. How do we know that? Well, aside from knowing a few fans who count themselves among our neighbors to the north, it seems that a project has been green-lighted to build a NASCAR-minded speedway in Fort Erie, Ontario.

According to reports, the $400-million project will see the construction of a new Canadian Motor Speedway, a one-mile banked oval track with spectator capacity of over 65,000, including 60,000 grandstand seats, 5,000 club chairs and 80 suites. Though it is unclear if the track will eventually join the NASCAR calendar, a mile-long oval circuit is a pretty solid indicator of the kind of racing intended for this location. Another not-so-subtle indicator of investors' hopes for the facility? The designer is four-time NASCAR champ Jeff Gordon.

Lest you think the facility is only for turnin' left, the plan also includes a 2.5-mile road course. According to Canadian Motor Speedway executive director Azhar Mohammed, "This will be a world class facility that will attract visitors from all over North America. We are very anxious to begin the next steps in seeing the speedway become a reality."

While there were some appeals against the project, they were all rejected by Ontario Municipal Board. The project will provide jobs, and eventually tourism to an area that was forced to close its slots and live horse racing recently. We look forward to seeing how this track plays into the motorsport community at large.

As the Toronto Star notes, NASCAR's Nationwide series has already announced that it will stop racing in Montreal, so the Canadian Motor Speedway could conceivably make a play for the event if it doesn't go to Mosport as rumored.

Construction for the facility is expected to take just 18 months.

New Ontario racetrack green-lit, hopes to woo NASCAR originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Nov 2012 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> canadacanadian motor speedwayfort eriejeff gordonnascarnextel cupontariostock carstock car racingthe chase Fri, 09 Nov 2012 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20373379/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20373379/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/09/canada-getting-a-new-racetrack-in-ontario/20373379/article-detail.xml 20373379 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/canadian-motor-speedway-rendering_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/canadian-motor-speedway-rendering.jpg -1 2