2014 Subaru WRX: Hopefully More BRZ than Impreza

What It Is: Two years after the redesigned Impreza, Subaru's four-wheel-drive proto-rally car is reborn.

Why It Matters: The WRX kick-started the affordable rally-rod craze back in 2001. This all-new model will be further separated from the plebeian, cut-buck Impreza.

Platform: It'll borrow the Impreza's chassis, but Subaru's engineers will tune the components to maximize stiffness and handling prowess. Rumors indicate that Subaru also is prepping this WRX for a return to the World Rally Championship.

Powertrain: A turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter flat-four. We're expecting at least 275 horsepower.

Competition: Mitsubishi Lancer EVO, Mazdaspeed3, Ford Focus ST, girlfriends.

What Might Go Wrong: Purists will scoff if too much of the limp-boned Impreza leaks through. The BRZ gives us hope that Subaru's engineers can deliver.

Estimated Arrival and Price: Expect to pay close to $30,000 when it goes on sale at the beginning of 2014.

2013 Honda Civic Hybrid

The 2013 Honda Civic hybrid might not be quick, but its lightning-strike development sure was. After a fully redesigned Civic lineup debuted for 2012 to disappointment, Honda forced a speedy update down the pike. The fruit of its hurried labor has now ripened, and impressively, the shotgun fix remedied many of the shortcomings, at least on the conventional Civic sedan. Now we’ve run the revised hybrid model through our testing to see how it was affected by the rapid relaunch.
Smile, It’s a Hybrid!
As does the entire 2013 Civic lineup, the hybrid inherits a rash of structural, chassis, and styling tweaks designed to turn the 2012 car’s frown upside down and address its unsavory refinement levels, lackluster aesthetics, and floppy handling. And speaking of changing facial expressions, like other Civics, the hybrid inherits a pair of upturned chrome accents for the grille and lower intake, which impart a less-droopy, sad-looking countenance. 

Behind the revised look are slightly beefier springs, thicker anti-roll bars, and a stiffer front-end structure—all of which deliver subjectively better handling and body control over last year’s car. Thanks to a quicker ratio and reduced friction in the rack, the electric power steering is more accurate, too. The hybrid version, however, rides on fuel-economy-optimized Bridgestone Ecopia tires, their hard, narrow construction limiting lateral grip to 0.77 g on the skidpad. The low-rolling-resistance Ecopias also contributed to an abysmal 196-foot stop from 70 mph to 0. So even though the 2013 car feels more tied down and responsive, lateral grip and stopping performance are unchanged from the 2012’s.
Keep Calm and Slow Your Expectations
As mentioned, the Civic hybrid’s primary mission is to conserve fossil fuel. So we shouldn’t have been surprised when a geriatric piloting a Buick Lucerne—apparently unaware of our impromptu race—poignantly demonstrated this truth by smoking us from a stoplight. At the track, the hybrid took 9.9 seconds to reach 60 mph and topped out at 111 mph. Even though the 2013 model still pumps 127 combined horsepower from its 1.5-liter gas engine and 23-hp electric motor, acceleration figures are 0.2 second quicker and 1 mph lower than those of a 2012 hybrid we tested last year. Performance still trails off considerably when the battery pack is depleted. Despite our lead-footed driving style, we did manage 38 mpg—about 15 percent shy of the 44-mpg EPA combined figure and, truthfully, this hybrid’s most-important performance metric. 

Since you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the Civic’s inner sanctum while trying to keep up with other slow-laners, it’s a good thing it’s been improved. The dash layout is a tad more conventional, and there are now better materials as well as a padded vinyl dashboard and upper-door trim. Added soundproofing, plus thicker windshield and front-side window glass—they took the edge off wind and tire noise—added only two pounds to our test car relative to an identically equipped 2012 model.
Despite the multiple updates and improvements, the hybrid’s price inflates by a few hundred bucks, and bidding opens at $25,150. Our leather- and navigation-equipped test example rang in at a steep $27,850, but similarly optioned competitors such as the Volkswagen Jetta hybrid and Toyota Prius carry similar price tags.
Were it our money, we’d still check out nonhybrid, C-segment offerings like the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze, and Honda’s own Civic HF. Besides being capable of returning mid-30-mpg fuel efficiency for less money, they are quicker and more fun to drive

Image Leak! Again! Subaru’s Tasty WRX Concept Spills Forth 2013 New York Auto Show

Well, lookie here, another big New York auto show debutante has been leaked ahead of the show, and this time it’s the Subaru WRX concept. (Earlier this week we were given an early glimpse at the 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan.) The images appear to have originated on the French site Blog Automobile, and show the WRX concept completely uncovered and in full blue glory.

Just as we suspected, the next WRX—should it stay true to this concept version—makes a significant break visually from the Impreza, a model it’s previously been closely based upon. The concept features bodywork that shares nothing with Subaru’s compact car, and features a low, coupe-like roofline, sleek headlights, C-shaped taillights, and a low-set grille. Those beastly fender bulges aren’t far from what’s offered on today’s wide-body WRX, and they’re nicely integrated on the WRX concept’s four-door form.

Speaking of four-door, we hope the next WRX returns in both sedan and five-door hatchback forms, but we’ll have to wait and see what Subaru has up its sleeve in that regard. We do know that the car will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbo four, as will the uprated STI variant. (Blog Automobile’s report also mentioned an electrically powered turbo. If true, this could greatly minimize turbo lag by allowing the blower to spool up extra fast.) We’ll have full info and more photos of the WRX concept later this week following its official debut in New York, but until then, feast your eyes on the hot compact here.

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Z51 Performance Estimates Revealed!

Detailed technical information? Blah. Photos? Yawn. Those goods simply aren’t enough when it comes to the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray—all enthusiasts have been dying to know is what it can do, in units of time, g, and mph. We’re talking about performance figures, and Chevy finally has placated enthusiasts and released its estimates for what the C7 Vette, equipped with the Z51 performance package and magnetic ride control, is capable of.
With 455 horsepower on tap—yup, Chevy didn’t even employ the active exhaust system, which adds 5 horses—the Stingray Z51 can hit 60 mph in a claimed 3.8 seconds and trip the quarter-mile lights in just 12 seconds at 119 mph. Chevy says the Stingray can haul itself down from 60 mph in 107 feet and hang on for 1.03 g of lateral acceleration. We test braking from 70 mph to a stop and typically use a 300-foot-diameter skidpad to test lateral acceleration, so in the absence of skidpad details or a direct braking comparison, we can’t really speak to those claims. Of course, we’ll be strapping our test gear to the new Vette very soon to draw our own conclusions, but taken at face value, Chevy’s performance estimates are impressive.

In fact, the 2014 Z51 nips at the heels of the last 2012 Corvette Z06 we tested, and it even keeps the 2013 Corvette ZR1 we recently tested in sight, too. The Z06 reached 60 mph just three tenths of a second sooner, and ran the quarter four-tenths and 7 mph quicker. The mighty ZR1 shaved another tenth from that 0–60 time, matched the quarter-mile time, and achieved 2 mph more in the quarter. Allow us to state the obvious: If the regular Vette can match Chevy’s claims, we’re positively giddy for what the next Z06 or ZR1 will be capable of.
Chevrolet also says it eked out a 2:51.78 lap time around Virginia International Raceway’s 4.1-mile Grand Course configuration. We conduct our annual Lightning Lap performance-car lap-time test at the same circuit using the same Grand Course configuration. We’ve tested several Corvettes at VIR over the years, and compared to those, the new C7 Corvette’s time falls directly between the two C6-generation Corvette ZR1 models’ performances.

2014 Toyota Corolla

When we first saw photos of the 11th-generation Toyota Corolla, it got us thinking about the AE86. To drifters and import hot-rodders, the twin-cam, rear-drive AE86 Corollas of the 1980s are venerated icons. Given the aggressive (for Toyota) styling of the new Corolla we felt a twinge of hope because when the Corolla went front-drive in the late 1980s, it also went to sleep. There's nothing wrong with a good afternoon nap, of course, and the 39-plus-million Corollas sold thus far have provided countless reliable miles to their owners. But few have been fun.
Three trim levels (L, LE, and S) carry over from last year’s model, and Toyota adds a new high-mileage variant, dubbed LE Eco. There's no denying the new Corolla is a visual step up from the current version that blends into the background so quickly as to be darn near invisible. With design cues shared with the recent Furia concept, the face has more character, aided by sculpted LED headlamps that are now standard on all Corollas. There are token fender flares and the rear design seems rather upmarket for the compact segment, if a bit generic. Wind-tunnel work yielded a flatter underbody, the S and LE Eco getting closeout panels underneath for better aero-efficiency.
The Old Smooth and Stretch
In the process of crafting the new Corolla’s sheetmetal, Toyota stretched it as well. Although width and height remain within an inch of the last-gen model’s, both the wheelbase and overall length are up by 3.9 inches, and that’s a big plus for rear-seat space. Toyota shifted the rear seat hip point back nearly three inches. Slimming the front seatbacks added more legroom for those in the second row, while Toyota claims
denser pads and foam inserts in the rear seats add comfort. The rear seatbacks fold and are split 60/40.

The longer, sleeker shape looks best, of course, on the S version with its 17-inch aluminum wheels that give the car a proper stance, not the running-on-tiptoes demeanor of the base model with 15-inch steel wheels and hubcaps.
Upgraded Equipment
There is no stripper model per se, with even the base trim offering standard air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, eight airbags and today's requisite Bluetooth connectivity. Just as expected are the options, from an info/nav screen to heated seats to various sound systems and SofTex faux leather on the seats.
Where the current Corolla has an instrument pod and vertical center stack for controls, the redesign creates a more horizontal form. There are two gauge packages: the S models have two dials flanking a digital 3.5-inch readout panel, while the other models get three gauges, with the central speedometer featuring a small readout. The new horizontal one-knob-and-five-button control panel for the climate-control system doesn’t look as handy as the old three-knob layout, but it thankfully avoids the multiple menus of more elaborate setups in pricier cars. The center stack is decked out with high-gloss piano-black surfaces, which look quite nice when just cleaned, but not so long after. Toyota apparently spent considerable time quieting the new-gen Corolla's interior. Noise-attenuation measures include an acoustic glass windscreen, a seal between the cowl and windscreen, better floor-carpet insulation, fender sound insulators, and a silencer pad on the inner dash. Continued...

New 2012 Ferrari 458 Italia Prices

Carried over for 2012, the Ferrari 458 Italia is a RWD mid-engine two-door supercar, available in coupe and convertible trims levels, that seamlessly blends performance and style. The 458 Italia is powered by a 4.5-liter direct injected V8 engine that produces 562 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a dual-clutch 7-speed F1 transmission the 458 Italia has a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds, top speed of 202 mph, and redlines at 9000 rpm. A performance suspension consisting of twin wishbones at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear provides the driver with superlative handling. The superior aero-dynamic styling, stretched headlights, and triple exhaust give the car a distinct flair. The interior is a driver oriented cockpit adorned with carbon fiber and leather trim. Steering wheel controls allow for preferred driver settings. The 2011 458 Italia is expected to get similar gas mileage as the previous model year, around 15 mpg. The 458 Italia is backed by a new 7-year maintenance program. 

New 2013 Lincoln MKT Prices

New for 2013, the Lincoln MKT is a full-size luxury crossover utility vehicle with seating for seven. The base MKT, equipped with FWD, is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 303 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque. For upgraded performance Lincoln offers an optional 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 twin-turbocharged engine, equipped with AWD, that produces 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with the same SelectShift™ 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle activation. Fuel mileage falls within an EPA estimated range of 16 mpg city to 25 mpg highway, depending on engine selection. Features include fixed-glass vista roof, keyless entry, power liftgate, active park assist, HID headlamps, capless fuel filler, leather seats, voice-activated navigation, THX® surround audio system, rear view camera, HD radio, cooled seats, push button start, and ambient lighting. Safety is comprised of six airbags, electronic stability enhancement system, electric power assist steering, anti-lock braking, and collision warning. The MKT is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty.  

New 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Prices

Available with a new V6 engine, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an entry-level luxury car offered in coupe and sedan trim levels. The C-Class models are comprised of the C250 (sport/luxury) sedan, C250 coupe, C300 4MATIC (sport/luxury) sedan, C350 coupe, and C350 (sport) sedan. Engines offered are 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine that produces 201 hp (C250), 3.5-liter V6 engine that yields 248 hp (C300), and a 302 hp producing 3.5-liter V6 engine (C350). All trims are equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission which enables fuel mileage to fall within an EPA estimated range of 19 mpg city to 31 mpg highway, depending on trim selection. For superior performance Mercedes-Benz offers C63 AMG coupe and sedan trims; both powered by the same 6.3-liter V8 engine that produces 451 hp, for a 0-60 time of 4.4 seconds. AMG models come with high-performance braking, AMG sports exhaust system, 7-speed AMG speedshift MCT transmission, and an AMG sport suspension. Features include 18-inch wheels, rearview camera, leather upholstery, keyless GO, heated seats, navigation, and premium sound. Safety is comprised of 11-way airbag protection, attention assist, blind-spot assist, lane keeping assist, anti-lock braking (ABS), electronic stability program (ESC), brake assist (BA), and adaptive brakes. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty. 

New 2012 Lamborghini Aventador Prices

Replacing the Murcielago in Lamborghini's lineup, the 2012 Aventador is a two-door/seater mid-engine supercar with a 0-60 time under 3 seconds. Under the hood drivers will find a 6.5-liter V12 engine that produces a whopping 700 hp and 509 lb-ft of torque, granting the Aventador the highest power-weight ratio in its class. Electronically controlled 4WD is paired to a 7-speed semi-automatic transmission to enable an EPA estimated 11 mpg city and 17 mpg highway. Features are comprised of double wishbone front/rear suspension, front and rear parking sensors, steering wheel mounted controls, iPod/iPhone integration, voice activated navigation, and hands-free phone capabilities. Safety is comprised of anti-lock braking, dual front side-mounted airbags, xenon HID headlights, stability control, traction control, electronic brake distribution, and tire pressure monitoring. The Aventador is backed by a 3-year/unlimited-mile warranty. 

New 2013 Lexus LX 570 Prices

A full-size luxury SUV, the 2013 Lexus LX570 is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces 383 hp for a towing capacity of 7,000 lbs. 4WD is paired with a 6-speed sequential shift automatic transmission that produces 12 mpg city and 17 mpg highway. Features include eight passenger seating, four-zone climate control, premium audio, 20-inch wheels, backup camera, front/side monitor, intuitive parking assist, dual-screen DVD rear seat entertainment system, surround sound audio system, cool box, and hands-free phone capabilities. Safety is comprised of advanced airbags, pre-collision system, smart stop technology, anti-lock braking system (ABS), and vehicle stability control (VSC). The LX570 is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty. 

New 2013 Lexus ES 300h Prices

Brand new for 2013, the Lexus ES300h is a mid-size luxury sedan powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine combined with an electric motor to produce 200hp. A 2-speed CVT is paired to FWD to enable an EPA estimated 40 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. Features include navigation system, Bluetooth technology, premium sound system, USB/iPod port, in-dash DVD/CD player, leather seats, automatic climate control, and backup camera. Safety is comprised of advanced airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake assist (BA), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), smart stop technology (SST), vehicle stability control (VSC), traction control system (TCS), electronic stability control (ESC), and tire pressure monitoring (TPMS). The ES 300h is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty. 

New 2013 Infiniti FX37 Prices

A mid-size luxury SUV, the 2013 Infiniti FX37 is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 325 hp. Both drivetrains, standard FWD and optional AWD, are paired to a 7-speed automatic transmission that enables the FX37 to achieve 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Features include HID headlights, LED brakelights, glass moonroof, power rear liftgate, dual exhaust with polished finishers, push-button ignition, heated/cooled seats, leather seats, 11-speaker sound system, steering-wheel mounted controls, hands-free phone capabilities, navigation system, rearview monitor, and voice recognition. Safety is comprised of an advanced airbag system, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), brake assist (BA), anti-lock braking (ABS), blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, traction control, and vehicle dynamic control (VDC). The FX37 is backed by a 4-year/60,000-mile warranty. 

New 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport Fleet Prices

Based on a smaller version of the Chevrolet Equinox’s crossover vehicle platform, 2012 Captiva Sport is being marketed exclusively to business and government customers. Available in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels, the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport shares a variety of standard features on all models including power windows, power locks, electronic stability control, XM Satellite radio and 17-inch aluminum wheels. The LS-trimmed 2012 Captiva Sport come fitted with a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder producing 182 horsepower. A 264 horsepower, 3-liter V-6 engine comes the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport LT and LTZ versions. Bluetooth and OnStar are also found on the Captiva Sport LT models as standard equipment. LTZ models offer the most upscale accessories onto the 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport that includes leather seating, rearview camera and a sunroof. All 2012 Chevrolet Captiva Sport engines utilize a 6-speed automatic transmission. 

New 2013 Mazda CX-9 Prices

Updated with redesigned front and rear fascias, the 2013 Mazda CX-9 is a full-size crossover vehicle with seating for seven. The CX-9 is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 273 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. Drivetrain options consist of a standard FWD and an optional active torque split AWD. Equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission the CX-9 achieves an EPA estimated 16 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Features include HID headlights, power moonroof, 20-inch wheels, three-zone automatic climate control, back-up camera, hands-free phone capability, keyless entry, leather trim, heated seats, premium surround sound, and navigation. Safety is comprised of advanced airbags, rollover protection, anti-lock braking, electronic brake force distribution, dynamic stability control, traction control system, roll stability control, and blind-spot monitoring. The CX-9 is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.  

New 2013 Chevrolet Equinox Prices

Now available with new colors and a brand new engine, the 2013 Chevrolet Equinox is a mid-size crossover SUV with a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. Under the hood drivers will find a 2.4-liter direct injected 4-cylinder engine that produces 182 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque. For increased performance Chevrolet offers an optional 3.6-liter direct injected V6 that yields 292 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. FWD is paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission enabling the Equinox to achieve an EPA estimated 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Features include 19-inch wheels, heated leather seats, 8-way power adjustable front seats, USB port, available rear seat entertainment system, Chevrolet MyLink, and a power liftgate. Safety is comprised of advanced airbags, StabiliTrak, Electronic Stability Control System (ESC), traction control system (TCS), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), and anti-lock braking system (ABS). The Equinox is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. 

New 2013 Toyota Tacoma Prices

Fresh off of last year's re-design, the 2013 Toyota Tacoma is a compact pickup truck offered in two-door and four-door trim levels. The Tacoma is powered by a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. An optional engine upgrade grants the driver a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces 236 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque. The base engine can be paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission while the upgraded engine can be paired with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Both engines have the option of RWD or 4WD drivetrains. Fuel mileage is an EPA estimated 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, for the standard engine. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lbs. for the standard engine and 6500 lbs. for the upgraded engine. Options include power outside mirrors, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, integrated backup camera, 6-disc CD changer, and auto-dimming mirror with monitor. Safety is comprised of vehicle stability control (VSC), traction control (TRAC), anti-lock brake system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), advanced airbags, and smart stop technology (SST). The Tacoma is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. 

2014 Chevrolet SS: Chevy's RWD LS3-Powered Flagship

Ages from now, when we look back at 2008–2013 with 20/20 hindsight, we'll likely deem GM's quick-rinse bankruptcy a blessing. Case in point: the 2014 Chevrolet SS sedan arriving later this year. This car is an amalgam of a once-revered nameplate (SS) and one of the best cars developed by pre-Chapter 11 GM, the Pontiac G8. Without GM's trip through the reorganization wringer, a rear-drive Chevy flagship might not have happened.

Way, way back in the company's rowdier days, Corvette patron Zora Arkus-Duntov affixed an SS badge (double-secret code for "super sport") to GM's first purpose-built racer. Thanks to a magnesium body draped over a steel-tube space frame inspired by the Mercedes 300SL's skeleton, the Corvette SS weighed a lean 1850 pounds dry. A front-mounted 4.6-liter V-8 equipped with fuel injection and aluminum heads delivered 310 horsepower at 6400 rpm. Piloted by the best shoes of the day—Fangio, Fitch, Moss, and Taruffi—the two-seat SS was quick, but a lack of development stopped it after only 23 laps at the 1957 12-hour Sebring Grand Prix.

The SS evolved into the more successful Sting Ray racer that begat the 1963 Corvette (C2) Sting Ray production model. In 1961, Chevy resurrected the badge for an optional ($54) Impala package consisting of various chassis, interior, and exterior upfits. Over the years, the double-S escutcheon has been hung haphazardly on Chevys ranging from convertible pickups to front-drive Impalas to current V-8–powered Camaros.

The new Chevrolet SS is an updated version of the Australian-built Pontiac G8, which thrived for barely 18 months before sinking, along with GM's "excitement" division, in 2009. When it knocked off Dodge's Charger R/T in our June 2008 comparison test, we dubbed the G8 GT "the BMW that Pontiac always wanted to build." When it perished the following year, GM's Bob Lutz said the full-size four-door G8 was too good to waste, and he pledged that it would reappear as a Chevrolet.

Lutz's forecast was dead-on accurate. The Chevy Camaro, essentially a shorter-wheelbase (112.3-inch) coupe version of the G8, arrived before the onset of Pontiac's death throes. In late 2009, Chevrolet announced a 118.5-inch-wheelbase Caprice PPV perp coach built on GM's large rear-drive platform, which was formerly code-named Zeta. The new SS is the meat in the sandwich. It rides on the size-medium 114.8-inch wheelbase of the old G8, but features a host of updates such as re-creased sheetmetal, a new electrical architecture, a retuned chassis, and contemporary Chevrolet interior and exterior earmarks. All Zeta siblings have unibody construction, front struts, and a multilink rear suspension.

The production SS due this fall will have an LS3 6.2-liter V-8 burbling under its hood, backed up by a six-speed automatic with standard paddle shifters. Packing 415 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque—as well as a 3.27:1 final drive—Chevy says the car should sprint to 60 mph in the five-second range.

Decelerative responsibilities fall on Brembo brakes; hardware includes 14-inch front rotors, 12.8-inch rear rotors, and four-piston fixed front calipers. Sticky Bridgestone performance rubber—measuring 245/40 at the front and 275/35 out back—cozies up to 19-inch forged wheels. The hood and trunklid are aluminum. There are, of course, LED daytime running lights.

SSs will be sold fully loaded with top-shelf infotainment gear, HID headlamps, stitched leather trim, the latest collision-warning equipment, and Chevy's first application of automatic parking assist. The only option will be a power sunroof, so expect a sticker crowding $40,000 when the car arrives in showrooms at the end of the year. Since the efficiency upgrades of the new LT1 V-8—direct injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation—are not included, factor some gas-guzzler tax into your budget.

The SS is Chevy's new nameplate hero in NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series. After winning 10 straight manufacturers' championships with "Monte Carlos" and "Impalas" from 2003 to 2012, Chevy is now the only brand with a racer profiled after a pukka V-8, rear-drive production model. (Dodge withdrew its "Charger" from NASCAR after Brad Keselowski piloted one to the 2012 drivers' championship; Ford races "Fusions," and Toyota competes with "Camrys.") The Chevrolet SS race car debuts at this year's Daytona 500 as a 17-car phalanx fielded by Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, Furniture Row Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Phoenix Racing, Richard Childress Racing, and Stewart-Haas Racing.

The SS is essentially a spear aimed at the hearts of the Chrysler 300 SRT8, Dodge Charger SRT8, and Ford Taurus SHO, but it's a stopgap measure. That could change in a couple of years when the production baton is expected to pass from GM's Elizabeth, Australia, plant to a U.S. assembly facility, and the heavy, elderly underpinnings of the old platform are replaced by a new large rear-drive platform engineered to serve under Chevrolet, Cadillac, and possibly Buick flagships. (More on GM's future RWD plans here and here.)

Meanwhile, for our role in pulling GM back from the abyss, we tax-paying enthusiasts deserve this street-fighting SS with LT1 power and a stick shift.

2015 Ford Mustang: Getting Sprayed Down with a Can of Retro-Be-Gone

Call it Ford's Declaration of Independents. After half a century of log-axle Mustangs with only one brief experiment with an independently suspended rear end (the 1999–2004 SVT Cobra), Ford will hang a split-and-jointed drive axle beneath the 2015 Mustang's hindquarters. Considering that both the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger already have independent rears, it's not quite as revolutionary as "We hold these truths . . ." But even with today's outdated rigid axle, the Mustang is already our favorite in this class, and a new unibody platform with its wheelbase and front and rear tracks all cinched tighter should help keep the Ford ahead of its peers.

While the current Mustang is slavishly, unimaginatively retro, Ford has pretty much mined out its glory days, the as-yet unrealized Mustang II redux notwithstanding. So the next car will be fearlessly modern. Many Mustang faithful are up in arms at the ­prospect of Ford's next hot rod looking too much like the 2011 Evos concept car, but we have confidence. Between the Focus and the Fusion, Ford's styling department is on a hot streak.

The next Mustang will have at least one retro cue, though: an available turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Absent from the lineup since the 1986 SVO, the forced-induction four returns in the guise of Ford's EcoBoost 2.0-liter, which makes 252 horsepower in the Focus ST. Don't expect that figure to change much for the Mustang, where the 2.0 will sit between the car's two currently available engines. Priced higher than a revised version of the 3.7-liter V-6—rated at 305 horses in today's car—the four will be pitched as a balance of power and efficiency. Ford's 5.0-liter V-8 will top the range. The Blue Oval can't afford to leave the Camaro ZL1 unchallenged, and so another GT500 is a certainty; less certain, however, is what will power it. Pedestrian-protection standards will restrict the underhood clearances in the next car, cutting the space available not just for the Shelby's top-mount supercharger and intercooler, but also its tall-deck engine block. We suspect Ford will find a way to nestle a pair of turbos against the 5.0's block. With all engines, a six-speed manual will be standard, and we hear that an eight-speed automatic will arrive fashionably late.

Commonly referred to as a "1964-¹/₂" but technically a 1965, the first Mustang appeared at the New York World's Fair on April 17, 1964. Ford isn't going to miss the opportunity to throw the Mustang one heck of a 50th birthday party. April 17, 2014 will be a Thursday. It should be significantly more exciting than your average Thursday.

2014 BMW M4: What's to Become of the M3 Coupe

What It Is: The high-performance version of the BMW 4-series and successor to the M3 coupe and cabriolet. Like the M3s before it, the M4 is designed for serious track- thrashing, yet it offers the comfort and amenities of a premium coupe.

Why It Matters: Stepping into the Sasquatch-sized shoes of the M3 coupe, the M4 needs to repair the M division's heavily dinged reputation.

Platform: Based on the F30 platform, which underpins the 3- and forthcoming 4-series, it incorporates aluminum and carbon fiber to reduce weight. The chassis will be tuned for performance and the body will be reshaped to drive home the point.

Powertrain: A twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter inline-six with around 420 horsepower. BMW will offer both a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Competition: Audi RS5, Cadillac ATS-V, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.

What Might Go Wrong: The same guys who tuned the M5 to be a soggy, sorry excuse for an M car may still be on the payroll. Going back to a straight-six is a great move, and the styling of the M4 seems sure to please BMW aficionados. The four-door will continue to be called the M3, so no charging the barricades, please.

Estimated Arrival and Price: The M4 will arrive in 2014, with a price starting around $60,000.

2016 BMW M8: The First Super-Bimmer Since the M1

What It Is: The BMW M8 is the first supercar from the blue-spinner crew since 1981, when the last of the 453 BMW M1s were sold. The M8 coupe will feature a few retro design cues, but also state-of-the-art gasoline-powertrain technology. The structure and body  will use lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber, aluminum, magnesium, and even titanium, in pursuit of a 2760-pound target weight.

Why It Matters: As BMW downsizes its mainstream models and introduces electric cars, it runs the risk of degrading its sporting image. A car like the M8 would burnish the reputation of BMW Motorsports.

Platform: The new M8 will be built on the platform of the i8, a futuristic carbon-fiber plug-in hybrid that uses some 5-series components.

Powertrain: An upgraded version of the M5's direct-injected 4.4-liter TwinPower Turbo, coupled to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. BMW engineers are talking 600 to 650 horsepower.

Competition: Audi R8, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, Porsche 911 Turbo.

What Might Go Wrong: BMW boss Norbert Reithofer is not a fan of this car, but the head of BMW M GmbH, Friedrich Nitschke, is. The top boss could cancel the project at the last minute. The reason: The M8 doesn't strictly comply  with BMW's 21st-century technology strategy, which focuses on alternative powertrains and smart connectivity.

Estimated Arrival and Price: Due in BMW's centennial year of 2016, the M8's target price is 250,000 euros, or $330,000 at current exchange rates.

New 2012 Ford Escape Prices

The 2012 Ford Escape is a compact FWD SUV that is available in AWD and a hybrid trim level. The base Escape is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 171 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque. For increased performance Ford offers a 3.0-liter V6 engine that yields 240 hp and 223 lb-ft of torque. A hybrid Escape is also offered, powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine the Escape Hybrid produces 177 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options consist of a 5-speed manual (4-cylinder engine), 6-speed automatic transmission (4-cylinder and V6 engine), and eCVT transmission (hybrid). Fuel mileage falls within an EPA estimated range of 20 (34 hybrid) mpg city to 31 mpg highway, depending on engine and drivetrain selection. Features include 17-inch wheels, power moonroof, hands-free phone capabilities, navigation system, active park assist, rear view camera, and DVD entertainment system. Safety is comprised of roll stability control, traction control, advanced airbag system, anti-lock braking, and tire pressure monitoring. The Escape is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. 

New 2013 Ford Explorer Prices

Largely unchanged, the 2013 Ford Explorer is a FWD full-size crossover available with two different engines; a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 hp/255 lb-ft of torque and an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder Ecoboost engine that produces 240 hp/270 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options are comprised of a standard 6-speed automatic and an optional 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. Fuel mileage falls within an EPA estimated range of 17 mpg city to 28 mpg highway, depending on engine and transmission selection. Features include 4WD, terrain management system, seating for up to seven passengers, power liftgate, remote start, automatic climate control, hill descent control, rear view camera, voice activated SYNC®, active park assist, heated/cooled seats, navigation system, push-button start, and dual-headrest DVD players. Safety consists of a blind sport information system, collision warning with brake support, trailer sway control, electronic stability control, curve control, anti-lock braking (ABS), and an industry-first inflatable rear safety belts. The Explorer is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. 

New 2013 Ford Fusion Prices

Drastically re-designed for 2013, the Ford Fusion is a mid-size sedan with seating for five and the option of three different engines. The standard Fusion is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 175 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque. Optional engines consist of a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine (178 hp/184 lb-ft of torque) and a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine (240 hp/270 lb-ft of torque). FWD can be paired to 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, and 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. Fuel mileage, for the standard Fusion, falls within an EPA estimated range of 22 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Increased fuel economy can be found in the Fusion Hybrid (capable of 47 mpg) and Fusion Energi Plug-In Hybrid. Features include 19-inch wheels, SYNC® with MyFord Touch®, navigation system, HD radio, leather seats, and dual-zone climate control. Safety is comprised of advanced airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), electric-power-assisted steering, AdvaceTrac® electronic stability control (ESC), and tire pressure monitoring (TPMS). The Fusion is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. 

New 2013 Ford Expedition Prices

The Ford Expedition is a full-sized tow-capable SUV with off-road capabilities. The Expedition is powered by a 5.4-liter Flex Fuel (can be run on E85 fuel) V8 engine that produces 310 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission can be paired with standard RWD or optional 4WD. Fuel economy falls within an EPA estimated range of 13 mpg city to 20 mpg highway, depending on drivetrain selection. With the optional heavy-duty trailer towing package the Expedition ups towing capacity to 9,200 lbs. Features include heated/cooled front seating, power folding 3rd-row, power-adjustable pedals, trailer sway control, rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry remote, HD radio, rearview camera, Ford SYNC®, integrated blind spot mirror, navigation system, front park assist, power liftgate, and reverse sensing parking system. Safety is comprised of stability control, six standard airbags, traction control, anti-lock braking system, and SOS Post-Crash Alert System™. The Expedition is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. 

New 2014 Ford Mustang Prices

Fierce as ever, the 2014 Ford Mustang is a coupe/convertible pony car available in V6, GT, and Shelby GT500 trim levels. The base Mustang is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 305 hp/280 lb-ft of torque while the GT is equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that yields 420 hp/390 lb-ft of torque. Upgrading to the monstrous Shelby GT500 trim significantly increases output to 662 hp and 631 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options consist of a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and Tremec 6-speed manual (GT500). Fuel mileage falls within an EPA estimate range of 15 mpg city to 31 mpg highway, depending on trim selection. Features include glass roof, adjustable performance features, electronic power assist steering, rearview camera, navigation system, heated seats, and hands-free capabilities. Safety is comprised of anti-lock braking (ABS), brake assist (BA), stability control (ESC), and advanced airbags. The Mustang is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty

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