2014 CORVETTE STINGRAY DOES 0-60 IN 3.8 SECONDS, 1.03G ON THE SKIDPAD

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - When pricing of the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray was announced back in April, Chevrolet promised that 'Vettes equipped with the Z51 Performance Package would be able to hit impressive figures that include "0-96 kilometres per hour (0-60 mph) in under four seconds and more than 1g in cornering," and now it has backed these numbers up.  While metrics for a stock Stingray weren't released, checking the Z51 box will get you a 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph) time of just 3.8 seconds and a skidpad number of 1.03g.

Between its 460 horsepower and now its 3.8-second 0-96 km/h (0-60 mph) time, the Stingray Z51 is positioned directly in between the new Porsche 911 S and Turbo models while costing significantly less than both.  In addition to this, Chevy is promising a quarter mile time of 12 seconds and 96-0 km/h (60-0) braking in just 32.6 metres (107 feet).

As an extra little bit of bragging rights, Chevy says that an almost-stock Z51 (with a racing seat, harness and fire extinguisher added inside the car) with Magnetic Ride Control was able to lap the Virginia International Raceway Grand Course in 2:45.78.  Wondering how that compares with other known hi-po models?  So are we ...

Although there are no official VIR lap times to compare against, we did find that FastLaps.com has an unofficial collection of times for the track that places the new Stingray in the number two spot, just behind a 2008 Corvette ZR1.  If accurate, that's mighty impressive.

Below is the official press release.

Corvette Stingray: 3.8 seconds from 0 to 60 mph

Turns in 2:51.8 lap at Virginia International Raceway 'Grand Course'

DETROIT - Chevrolet released official performance estimates today for the 2014 Corvette Stingray, the most capable standard Corvette ever.  Equipped with the available Z51 Performance Package, the new Stingray is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds, braking from 60 to 0 in 107 feet, and sustaining 1.03 g in cornering.

Cumulatively, the acceleration, cornering and braking capability of the Corvette Stingray enable it to lap the Virginia International Raceway's (VIR) 4.2-mile "Grand Course" in 2:51.78.

"For the new Stingray, we set out to elevate every aspect of the Corvette's performance," said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer.  "Considered alone, the acceleration, braking and cornering performance of the Corvette Stingray is truly impressive.  More significant is how well they work together, resulting in a lap time at VIR that places the new Stingray in the upper echelon of all sports cars."

2014 Corvette Stingray Z51Acceleration from 0-60 MPH: 3.8 seconds

1/4 mile acceleration: 12 seconds @ 199 mph

Braking distance from 60 to 0 MPH: 107 feet

Maximum lateral acceleration: 103G

VIR 'Grand Course' Lap: 2:51.78

The lap around VIR was conducted in Stingray equipped with the available Z51 Performance Package and Magnetic Ride Control.  The vehicle that conducted the lap was modified only with safety features like a racing seat and harness, and fire extinguisher system.

"The new Stingray constantly communicates feedback to the driver, which makes you feel incredibly confident behind the wheel," said Jim Mero, Corvette vehicle dynamics engineer.  "That confidence encourages you to attack each corner because the Stingray drives so well: the tire grip is incredible; the steering response is some of the best I've ever experienced; the Magnetic Ride dampers allow little body roll through the corner, while still soaking up the rumble strips when you clip the apex," he said.  "It's just addictive on the track."

The 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe goes on sale in the third quarter of 2013 for a suggested starting retail price of $51,995US, excluding tax, title and license fees.  The $2,800US Z51 Performance Package includes an electronic limited-slip differential; dry-sump oiling system; integral brake, differential and transmission cooling; as well as a unique aero package that further improves high-speed stability.  Magnetic Ride Control with Performance Traction Management is a $1,795US option.  A Corvette Stingray equipped like the test car used at VIR would cost $56,590US.

GM NUMBER ONE IN J.D. POWER INITIAL QUALITY STUDY AND GM CANADA'S OSHAWA ASSEMBLY WINS SILVER PLANT QUALITY AWARDS

By General Motors of Canada - J.D. Power announced today the results of its 2013 Initial Quality Study.  For the first time, GM was ranked first in the study followed by Toyota and Honda.  GM also received more segment leader awards than any other automaker.

Congratulations to GM Canada's Oshawa Assembly (Consolidated Line) for winning the Silver Plant Assembly Line Quality Award in North/South America.  These awards come as a result of the Plant's commitment to quality and a solid track record.

Kevin Williams, president and managing director of GM of Canada said, "Being recognized as one of the top plants in North and South America shows the dedication of our employees and a strong drive toward continuous improvement.  Our employees work hard every day to build the best quality cars and trucks for our customers."

Overall, General Motors built on a strong performance in last year's J.D. Power and Associates Quality Study, placing about 50 percent of its vehicles in the top three of their respective segments with a company-best eight segment awards.

GMC ranked second overall in initial quality, climbing 10 positions, Chevrolet also jumped 10 positions and ranked fifth overall, all GM brands performed better than the industry average of 113 problems per 100 vehicles.

Since 1999, Oshawa Assembly has earned four Gold, four Silver and one Bronze J.D. Power and Associates Plant Awards.

Canadian-built vehicles ranked as follows in the J.D. Power Vehicle Segments:

Segment Award Recipients:

• Camaro - Midsize Sporty Car
• Impala - Large Car

Segment Top 3:

• Equinox - Ranked Third - Compact CUV
• Regal - Ranked Third - Midsize Car

The Oshawa Car Plant currently builds Chevrolet Camaro, Chevrolet Impala, Buick Regal and Cadillac XTS on the Flexible Manufacturing Line and the Chevrolet Impala Classic and Chevrolet Equinox on the Consolidated Line.  CAMI Assembly also builds the Chevrolet Equinox.

2013 CHEVY SPARK

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - Minicars have yet to really catch on in North America, and while the reason for that is probably at least partially because of our growing addiction to big crossovers and SUVs, we have a feeling that some of the indifference toward these tiny cars is the lack of functional practicality and efficiency that such small vehicles offer – especially relative to vehicles the next size and price rung up. Looking at the current class of sub-subcompact cars, which includes the Chevrolet Spark, Fiat 500, Smart Fortwo and Scion iQ, only the Spark and 500 provide realistic interior space, and the baby Bowtie is the sole offering in its class large enough to offer a rear set of doors.

The Spark – in one name or another – has been on sale in other markets since 2009 and has sold relatively well, but in the name of globalization and diversifying its lineup, Chevrolet brought it to Canadian and US showrooms. General Motors hasn't marketed a car this small since the Geo/Chevy Metro, and just like the Metro was the product of a collaboration with Suzuki, the Spark is a product of GM's South Korean operations. With its addition to the lineup, Chevy's menu of passenger cars is now bursting with options, but can this pint-sized hatchback ignite any interest with North American buyers? We spent a week with one to find out if it could hold our attention – and all our stuff.

Maybe it's just the segment in which the Spark competes, but Chevy's minicar doesn't appear to scream for attention with its shape or dimensions as much as its rivals. As North American buyers are still warming to these micro machines, though, we don't consider being the segment's wallflower such a bad thing. Resembling something like a scaled-down Chevy Sonic, the only thing about the Spark that truly grabs your attention is its flamboyant colour palette. Our tester came in spicy Jalapeno Green, but there are also a handful of pastel hues including pink, blue and yellow.

The biggest distinction for the Spark is its extra set of doors.

Although a little rhinoplasty wouldn't hurt the Spark, it's a rather good-looking car for its size... especially after your eyes take in the odd proportions of the Smart Fortwo and the Scion iQ. Sure, it's shaped like a doorstop, but its arched roof, sharply rising beltline and boxy rear end give it a more conventional appearance in a segment where quirky designs have become the norm. After factoring in the car's standard look, our tester added the 2LT trim, which tacks on unique facias with fog lights up front and a chrome exhaust tip poking out the rear, sportier rocker panels, silver roof rails, small amounts of chrome trim and 15-inch aluminum wheels with black accents, all of which help further differentiate the Spark in this class.

The biggest distinction for the Spark is, of course, its extra set of doors. Rather than squeezing between the front seats and B-pillars, the doors make the two-passenger rear seating much more accommodating. In total, there is plenty of room for four adults to travel comfortably with short road trips only limited by cargo space rather than passenger comfort. Rear occupants are separated by a cupholder and storage bin ensuring generous amounts of hip and shoulder room to go with a decent amount of head and legroom, which happens to be considerably roomier than the larger Ford Fiesta. Cargo space with the seats in place is limited to just 323 litres (11.4 cubic feet), but folding the rear seats down practically triples available cargo space. Unfortunately, folding the 60/40 split seats is a tricky three-step process that still doesn't result in a flat load surface.

Unlike what we were taught to believe about inexpensive cars, the Spark is no stripper.

Equally surprising as its passenger space, the Spark has a pleasantly styled interior. Don't worry, there is plenty of chintzy plastic to complain about, but the overall layout makes the materials easy to overlook. Again, the Spark borrows some styling cues from the Sonic, including its motorcycle-like gauge cluster with a large speedometer and small multi-function digital display. Unlike what we were taught to believe about inexpensive cars, the Spark is no stripper – air conditioning, power windows and power door locks all come standard.

Though starting at an inexpensive base price of $11,845 (making the Spark LS Canada's lowest 2013 MSRP), this Spark 2LT topped out at $16,995, which comes within spitting distance of much larger vehicles. Hoping to attract younger buyers, all LT trims get the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system as standard equipment, which provides popular apps like Pandora and Stitcher and a well-integrated navigation system. The same cannot be said for the Fiat 500 and its dash-mounted nav-on-a-stick or Scion's aftermarket-looking system. Stepping up even further, the 2LT adds heated front seats, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and leatherette on the seats. The latter feel just like vinyl, but there is a fancy pattern and exposed stitching to spice up the look a bit more. Certain exterior colours (including Jalapeno Green) get body-colour matching interior pieces for extra flair.

Its little 1.2-litre inline four-cylinder engine out-powers only the Fortwo in this class.

If this car needs some extra flair anywhere, though, it's under the hood. Not that we expect a bargain-priced minicar to come with lots of power (we can dream, can't we?), but the Spark's little 1.2-litre inline four-cylinder engine out-powers only the Fortwo in this class, despite being its biggest member. Our tester's 84 horsepower and 83 pound-feet of torque were sent to the wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, but two-pedal fans can opt for a four-speed automatic – or a new CVT in 2014. As we learned during our First Drive, the four-speed auto isn't an awful choice, but if you don't like playing on-ramp roulette every time you merge onto the highway, then the manual is a wiser choice (the auto adds whole seconds to the already double-digit 0-60 mph time). Even though the Spark is the largest minicar currently offered, its fuel economy is still class competitive at 6.3 L/100 km in the city and 5.1 L/100 km highway. Keep up with the Spark's tach-mounted shift light, and you'll have no problem meeting or exceeding those official numbers.

Thanks to its added size, the Spark is arguably the best daily driver in this segment, mostly on account of the fact that it feels more stable on the highway where crosswinds or passing tractor trailers aren't religious experiences. While the Spark isn't scary to drive at higher speeds, it is undeniably a city car, as evidenced by the transmission gearing that leaves the low-power engine racing at more than 3,000 rpm at 100 km/h. Speed isn't the Spark's specialty, though, as this little hatchback really excels in city driving where its small size equates to excellent maneuverability.

The Spark has the whole segment nailed when it comes to balance and ease of driving.

Looking at the competition, the Fiat (especially in Turbo or Abarth trim) is far more appealing to drive, while the iQ is a winner in the tightest turning radius competition, but the Spark has the whole segment nailed when it comes to balance and ease of driving. For starters, the Spark's electric power steering is perfectly suited for low-speed parking maneuvers, while the standard hill start assist makes stop-and-go traffic easier to bear, especially in hilly cities. The suspension tuning leans toward the firm side, but not so firm as to make its short wheelbase hop all over the road. Potholes, cobblestones and speed bumps are all taken in stride by the Spark's suspension.

After about a year on the market, the Spark has found the most success, according to Chevy, in Major cities and urban areas. This makes sense for anyone who drives and parks in a dense city setting. The small size and relatively high level of comfort that the Spark provides leaves this car feeling less like the big fish in a small pond of minicars, and more like a small car designed just for the big city.

In the not-too-distant past, "inexpensive" and "cheap" were interchangeable words among GM's lineup of small cars, but the 2013 Chevy Spark is proof that this automaker can build a quality car that is also affordable. Furthermore, the Spark one-ups its competition by being priced much lower than the Scion iQ and Fiat 500 and offering a more practical size and powertrain than the Smart Fortwo, all while coming with a styling that is neither frumpy nor goofy.

What's next for this small segment? By next year, each of the four minicars currently on sale will hope to add an all-electric model, which will bring a whole new level of competition to the class. Sitting amongst a set of vehicles that seems to attract with quirkiness, the Spark just does what's expected of it without any excitement or surprises, and that's all we can ask from Chevy's smallest, lowest-priced model.

CANADA ANNOUNCES ALIGNMENT OF EMISSIONS STANDARDS WITH UNITED STATES

By Zach Bowman, Autoblog.com - Peter Kent, Minister of the Environment, has announced our country will officially adopt the United States Tier 3 emissions standards for passenger vehicles.  Kent says doing so will reduce air pollution from new vehicles by around 80 per cent compared to the old Tier 2 standards currently in place.  The Tier 3 standards will include tighter limits on the amount of emissions from new cars and light trucks as well as reduce the amount of sulfur in gasoline from 30 parts per million to 10 parts per million.

The Global Automakers of Canada, an industry association comprised of 15 different manufacturers, has come out in support of the move, saying the new standards are a step toward reducing emissions to the benefit of all Canadians.  The group also said the move will help spur automakers to embrace new technologies.  And since most new cars and trucks sold here in Canada are also available in the US, the necessary re-calibrations should be quite easy to perform.

The Canadian Fuels Association and Toyota have also voiced their support for the policy change.  Check out the official press release from Environment Canada.

Harper Government Moves to Strengthen Regulations on Air Pollution to Provide Cleaner Air to Canadians

TORONTO, June 7, 2013 - Canada's Environment Minister, the Honourable Peter Kent, today announced that, in order to provide cleaner air to Canadians, the Government of Canada intends to align its transportation-related air pollution emission standards with the more stringent United States proposed Tier 3 standards.

"This new initiative is proof of our government's commitment to cleaner air, today and for generations to come," said Minister Kent.  "Once fully phased-in, these standards are expected to reduce smog-forming air pollutants from new vehicles by approximately 80% compared to the current Tier 2 standards."

Canada intends to amend its related regulations to align with the United States Tier 3 standards, which include stricter limits on air pollutant emissions from new cars and light trucks and reductions will be developed in consultation with stakeholders.

"Toyota responds to the world's need for affordable fuel efficient and low emission vehicles through constant innovation in conventional and advanced technologies," said Seiji Ichii, President and CEO, Toyota Canada Inc.  "We are proud to say that the launch of hybrid vehicle production at our plant in Cambridge, Ontario, next year will make Toyota the first manufacturer to build highly efficient gasoline, hybrid and electric vehicles in Canada."

"The Global Automakers of Canada fully support the Government of Canada's commitment to proceed with Tier 3 emission standards that are aligned with the United States Environmental Protection Agency's proposed Tier 3 program," said David Adams, President of the Global Automakers of Canada "Through the reduction of sulphur in gasoline from 30 parts per million (ppm) to 10 ppm with a low sulphur cap, the government is reinforcing that a system approach to vehicles and fuels is necessary to maximize emissions reductions for the benefit of Canadians, and will enable automakers to introduce new advanced technologies required to achieve the stringent greenhouse gas emissions and fuel efficiency standards in place now and proposed through to 2025."

"The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association continues to support the government's ongoing efforts to harmonize both vehicle-related air pollution and greenhouse gas emission standards with those in the United States, consistent with the objectives of the Canada-United States Regulatory Cooperation Council's action plan," stated Mark Nantais, President.  "Today's announcement to implement new more stringent Tier 3 emissions standards builds on our achievements, which is important for Canada's integrated automotive industry, and it will ensure that a greater choice of vehicles are available at more affordable prices for consumers.  The combination of harmonized Tier 3 emission requirements for vehicles and lower sulphur content in gasoline will ensure Canadians, like their United States counterparts, receive the same air quality benefits and greater assurance of properly operating advanced emission control technologies on 2017 and later model year vehicles."

"We are pleased to see a continuing commitment by the federal government to align Canada's fuel sulphur content regulations with United States requirements," commented Peter Boag, President of the Canadian Fuels Association.

Under the Regulatory Cooperation Council announced by Prime Minister Harper and President Obama, Canada and the United States have agreed to tightly align our regulatory work on light duty vehicle emissions.  A notice announcing the Government's intention will be published in the June 8 issue of the Canada Gazette, Part 1.

"It is especially fitting to announce this new clean air measure that will benefit all Canadians during Environment week," concluded Minister Kent.

This is the latest federal action to provide clean air in Canada.  In May, the Government announced the new Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards for particulate matter and ground-level ozone.

For more information and to view a backgrounder on this announcement, please visit the Web site of Environment Canada at http://www.ec.gc.ca.

ONSTAR REMOTELINK MOBILE APP COMING STANDARD ON ALL NEW GM VEHICLES

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - As an evolution and improvement of its OnStar technology, General Motors has announced that it will be expanding the RemoteLink Mobile App on most 2014 model year Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles.  The new, aptly named RemoteLink Key Fob Services will allow users to remotely operate all of the same systems as the car's key fob, including locking and unlocking the doors and remote starting (on vehicles equipped with a factory remote starter) using a smartphone.

These Key Fob Services will be free for five years -- starting from the vehicle's delivery date -- but the full suite of RemoteLink features will continue to be offered only with a subscription (trial or paid).  These premium features include contacting a live adviser, getting turn-by-turn directions and remotely monitoring the vehicle's diagnostic systems.

Below is the complete press release with all the details.

GM to Make Door Unlock, Remote Start Standard
DETROIT -- Remotely unlocking doors, activating horn and lights and remote start for factory-equipped vehicles are among services General Motors will make standard via smartphone for five years through the OnStar RemoteLink Mobile App.

GM announced the new RemoteLink Key Fob Services program today for OnStar-equipped 2014 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac models -- even if the owner declines to pay for other OnStar services.  It is the broadest deployment of remote services offered through a mobile app by any auto manufacturer.  More than 36 2014 model year GM vehicles are compatible with the RemoteLink mobile app.

"We know our customers value remote services," said Mary Chan, president GM Global Connected Consumer.  "GM owners request remote door unlock assistance through OnStar more than 60,000 times each month, so it makes sense for us to offer RemoteLink Key Fob Services to enable customers to lock, unlock or start their vehicle from anywhere they have a wireless or cellular connection."

Remote start is the most popular remote service by current users of the RemoteLink Mobile App.

The complete set of RemoteLink Mobile App services remain available with a trial or paid OnStar subscription.  Additional services include monitoring the status of the vehicle's operating systems, including remaining oil life, fuel level range in miles, tire pressure, and miles per gallon.  It also includes a one-touch connection to an OnStar Advisor for a simple request or emergency need.  RemoteLink Mobile App users with the Directions and Connections plan can also send Turn-by-Turn directions directly from their smartphone to their vehicle.

Once a customer takes delivery of an eligible 2014 GM vehicle they can simply download the free application to a compatible smartphone and agree to terms.  The five-year period runs from the vehicle delivery date.

"Our vehicles are getting more connected, and so are we.  As mobile devices become a bigger part of our lives, GM understands the importance of providing our customers the ability to use these devices as part of their vehicle experience," said Chan.

"What's great about the RemoteLink Key Fob Services is that it works far beyond the range of a traditional key fob, which can come in handy in a number of situations," such as starting your car on a cold day as you leave the office or ensuring your vehicle is safely locked in the airport parking lot as you sit in the terminal.

"Customers expect the connection to their vehicle to be available anywhere they go and anytime they want to use it," said Alan Batey, GM vice president, U.S. sales and service.  "RemoteLink Key Fob Services represent simple, smart connectivity and another example of how GM brands are evolving services and connecting with our customers."

GM introduced the auto industry's first mobile app when it launched RemoteLink for the Chevrolet Volt in 2010 using OnStar technology.  Today, the RemoteLink Mobile App, which is available for nearly all GM brands, has been downloaded more than 1.5 million times with more than 320,000 regular users.

The full suite of OnStar in-vehicle services includes 24/7 access to a live Advisor, Automatic Crash Response, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Hands-Free Calling, Vehicle Diagnostics, Turn-by-Turn Navigation (with the Directions and Connections package) and more.

2014 CHEVROLET MALIBU GETS MORE TORQUE, MORE ROOM AND INSPIRATION FROM THE IMPALA

By Jonathon Ramsey, Autoblog.com - The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu, having stared at the Impala across the showroom floor for a year, gets nips and tucks all over inspired by its larger brother.  The 2.5-litre four-cylinder in the base car will get a stop-start system with an estimated 10.2 L/100 km city and 6.7 L/100 km highway, each number representing a 0.43 L/100 km improvement over the 2013 car.  Output is rated at 196 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque.

Opt for the 2.0-litre turbo and, while power holds steady at 259 hp, torque goes up by 14 per cent to a striking 295 lb-ft (a figure Chevy calls best in the class).  The final details include newly programmed transmission shift points and faster shifts, for better engaging and enjoying the added power.

Looks-wise, the grille's been reshaped to be more in line with the new Chevrolet look, a narrower upper grille hovering over a larger lower grille.  Inside we find more room for rear seat passengers: an extra 32 mm (1.25 inches) of knee room coming courtesy of shorter bolsters, redesigned front seat backs and new cushioning that puts passengers deeper in the seat.  Those up front get a new center console with longer armrests, two cuphoders and cell phone receptacles.

Changes to the struts and damping are aimed at an improved ride, the addition of blind spot monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert aimed at improving safety.

CHEVY EYES FORD F-150 NICHE MODEL SUCCESS, INCLUDING RAPTOR

By Chris Paukert, Autoblog.com - A couple of weeks ago, Chevrolet rolled out its highfalutin' High Country trim (pictured above) for the 2014 Silverado, a clear indicator that parent General Motors is prepared to better acknowledge that America's full-size pickup segment is mushrooming in new and profitable ways.  And Chevy isn't done expanding its new truck's portfolio, according to Edmunds -- it's keeping a ready eye on Ford's successful strategy with its F-150, which has resulted in everything from a high-performance off-roader (SVT Raptor) to a co-branded lifestyle model (Harley-Davidson).

Edmunds quotes Chris Hilts, GM's manager of creative design for its full-size truck interiors as saying "... our leadership is very aware of not only the (Ford) Harley-Davidson pickup, but also the Raptor.  There are a lot of halo vehicles at Ford.  They do sell well and they do set a tone for the vehicle.  We definitely are looking into that."

Although Edmunds doesn't say so, GM execs are probably keeping tabs on their Auburn Hills rival, too -- Chrysler has done a pretty swift trade in locally minded co-branded pickups like its Ram 1500 Red Wings Edition, a package sold in Detroit-area dealers for fans of the city's NHL franchise.  In fact, it's done well enough that the company is understood to be looking at other such opportunities.  In addition, Chrysler also offers dealer-installed Ram Runner conversion kits to turn its 1500 pickup into a desert brawler, and it's said to be contemplating a high-performance production off-road model.

So, does all of this mean that we can look forward to a super Silverado Raptor rival?  Well, we'd temper expectations on that one -- Chevy doesn't have an in-house skunkworks to develop smaller-volume performance products like Ford's SVT or Chrysler's SRT, and we haven't seen any mules or prototypes to suggest such a model is in the works.  Of course, with the High Country, GM has shown that it won't let GMC be the only brand to benefit from high-dollar 'statement' trucks anymore, so perhaps one could show up down the line.  In the meantime, we wouldn't be surprised to see a co-branded truck or two.

VEYRON AND C7 CORVETTE JOIN CAST OF TRANSFORMERS 4

By Jeffrey N. Ross, Autoblog.com - Like the Fast & Furious franchise, the Michael Bay-directed series of Transformers movies has become known as much for its bad acting as its impressive lineup of cars.  As filming just started for Transformers 4, Bay's website has confirmed two new cars for the next installment as well as a makeover for everyone's favorite tractor trailer hero, Optimus Prime.

Joining the cast of T4 are a "race-inspired" Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and a Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse.  While Bay's website did not supply names for either car, Bugatti is reporting on its Facebook page that the Veyron will join the Autobots.  Speaking of the good guys, top  Autobot Optimus Prime is getting an all-new body based on a Western Star with a gaudy appearance that was seemingly inspired by Trick My Truck - right down to the six smoke stacks and side pipes!

FIRST LIVE PHOTOS AND IMPRESSIONS OF CHEVY'S 2014 MALIBU

By Steven J. Ewing, Autoblog.com - The Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix - and event that first returned to the Motor City last year, to somewhat embarrassing results - made its return this past weekend, with the big race events happening Saturday and Sunday.  But before any of Chevy's Bowtie-badged race cars hit the track, we were able to get our first in-person look at the refreshed 2014 Malibu - a vehicle getting a host of upgrades after just one model year.

Until we actually get some behind the wheel time, won't be able to tell if the mechanical upgrades have indeed made for an improvement over the coldly received 2013 model, but based on what General Motors executives told us at the unveiling, things sound more promising.  For starters, the 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine gets a healthy boost in torque, swelling to 295 pound-feet from 259.  What's more, the chassis has been slightly retuned, following updates that Chevy engineers put on the larger Impala, and the base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine now benefits from start/stop technology, marking GM's first application of this feature in a non-hybrid.

Visually, the tweaks to the Malibu's front fascia are indeed noticeable, though we can't say for sure if they're actually improvements (the front-end styling was never a huge issue with the old car for us, after all).  Still, the revised grille and headlamp treatment adds a bit more aggression to the schnoz, and the slimmer grille opening above the Bowtie badge does bring the Malibu more in line with the other vehicles in the company's stable.  No other visual changes have been given to the updated sedan, and that's sort of a shame, since our only real design complaints concerned the rear fascia with its oddly squared-off, Camaro-inspired taillamps.

Inside, material fit and finish is mostly carryover, as is the overall design of the cabin.  The big changes, however, will be noticed by rear occupants, where there's an additional 32mm (1.25 inches) of knee room.  After sitting in the car during the recent presentation, we can say that the better materials on the front seat backs and more comfortable rear bench are indeed welcome changes.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but we expect that to drop closer to the car's on-sale date this fall.  For now, see below for any details you may have missed.

 

2014 Chevrolet Malibu is Roomier, More Efficient

• Fuel-saving start-stop technology added to standard model
• Rear knee room improved by 32mm (1.25 inches)
• Chassis and suspension developments enhance drive experience

DETROIT - Chevrolet unveiled the 2014 Malibu - a roomier, more refined and more efficient execution of its midsize sedan.  Updated styling, a revised interior, a new 2.5L standard engine and suspension enhancements highlight the changes.  It goes on sale this fall.

"The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu builds on the strengths established by the all-new 2013 Malibu to make it a stronger choice for customers," said Mark Reuss, president, General Motors North America.  "The midsize sedan segment is the most contested in the industry and we're not sitting still with the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu."

The new and enhanced features include:

• Revised front-end appearance
• Roomier rear seat, with 1.25 inches (31.7 mm) more knee room
• Redesigned center console
• New 2.5L engine with variable valve lift control and start/stop technology helps deliver estimated fuel economy of 23 city / 35 highway - a 5-percent improvement in city mileage and 3-percent greater highway efficiency
• Nearly 14 percent more torque from the available 2.0L turbo engine - 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm) - engineered for a greater feeling of power on demand
• Suspension enhancements derived from the all-new 2014 Impala engineered to contribute to a more refined driving experience
• New available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert safety features

Malibu's revised front-end appearance is influenced by the all-new Impala, creating a more cohesive look across Chevrolet's sedan lineup.  The front fascia features a new, more prominent lower grille and the hood extends down and over the leading edge of a narrower upper grille.  The grille openings - with black grille texture - are wider and accented with chrome.

Inside, redesigned seats contribute to greater rear-seat space and greater comfort.  The front seatbacks are shaped to improve rear-seat knee room, while new cushion sculpturing and revised cushion material allow passengers to sit deeper in the rear seats.  Approximately half an inch was trimmed from the front of the rear seat cushion, for greater comfort behind passenger's legs.

The Malibu's redesigned center console has a longer armrest designed for greater comfort, along with a pair of cup holders and dedicated storage for two cell phones.

"We made changes within 18 months, demonstrating an unprecedented commitment to make the Malibu the best car it can be," said Ken Kelzer, executive chief engineer, global full-size and midsize cars.  "The 2014 Malibu has been engineered to deliver more precise ride and handling that is on par with more expensive sports sedans."

More efficient, powerful powertrains
An all-new Ecotec 2.5L Intake Valve Lift Control DOHC four-cylinder engine with direct injection is the 2014 Malibu's standard engine.  Its variable intake valve actuation enhances efficiency and helps lower emissions, while also enhancing low-rpm torque, for a greater feeling of power at lower speeds.  When the iVLC system operates in low-lift mode, the engine pumps only the air it needs to meet the driver's demand.  The system switches to high-lift mode at higher speeds or under heavy loads, providing the full output capability of the engine.

New start/stop technology shuts down the 2.5L engine to save fuel when the Malibu stops momentarily, such as at stoplights, contributing to an estimated 5-percent increase in city fuel economy.  The engine automatically starts again when the driver takes his or her foot off the brake.  An auxiliary battery powers electric accessories such as the climate system, power windows and radio during engine restarts.

The new 2.5L is SAE-certified at 196 horsepower (145 kW) and 186 lb-ft of torque (253 Nm).  Revised transmission shift points and quicker shifts also enhance the feeling of performance - while delivering greater refinement.

Additionally, the 2014 Malibu's available 2.0L turbo engine delivers nearly 14 percent more torque than its predecessor.  It is SAE-certified at 295 lb-ft (400 Nm).  New engine calibration and tuning account for the improvement, making the Malibu 2.0L turbo's torque the best in the segment, even among competing six-cylinder-engines.  The result is a stronger feeling of acceleration from a stop and a greater feeling of power on demand in almost all driving conditions.

The 2.0L turbo also produces an SAE-certified 259 horsepower (193 kW).

Chassis refinements
Chassis and suspension updates inspired by the all-new 2014 Impala also contribute to the 2014 Malibu's more refined driving experience, including rebound springs that are internal to the struts.  They enable more refined calibration of the dampers for a smoother overall ride, while also improving body roll control and weight transfer during acceleration or turning.  That helps keep the wheels planted, contributing to a more precise, controlled feel - especially while cornering.

Fuel-saving electric power rack-and-pinion variable-effort power steering is standard and enables nearly effortless low-speed maneuvers and a higher degree of steering feel at higher speeds.  Revised, higher-effort calibrations for 2014 were engineered to improve the overall steering feel.  Also, the Malibu's brake system has been revised to provide a more confident feel.

Additional chassis control technologies include four-channel anti-lock brakes, full-function traction control, four-corner electronic stability control, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist system, corner brake control, hydraulic brake fade assist and drag torque control.

Enhanced safety

New Side Blind Zone Alert safety features are offered, adding to the protection from a car that received a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score in the New Car Assessment Program from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a 2013 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  Both are the highest ratings possible.

Malibu also come with 10 standard air bags and an available rearview camera system.