Nissan has unveiled a full-scale model of their Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Created for Gran Turismo 6, the concept is being billed as a "vision of what a high performance Nissan could look like in the future."
The car draws inspiration from the GT-R and has a futuristic design that is extremely aerodynamic. Starting up front, there's a "V-motion" front fascia with slender LED headlights and a front splitter. We can also see a ventilated hood, side exiting exhausts and a double bubble roof. The concept also has an aggressive rear diffuser and a prominent rear wing.
According to Nissan Design Europe Design Director Taisuke Nakamura “People are quite enthusiastic to race a car in a virtual environment. It’s a new styling challenge without any constraints, boundaries, so it was a purely design challenge from our side to see how much we can go further to achieve an attractive design. It’s like a virtual motor show to me.”
Lexus has announced a series of updates for the 2015 IS.
Starting with the exterior, the entry-level sports sedan gains new LED fog lights which promise to improve visibility.
Bigger changes occur in the cabin as there's Siri Eyes Free compatibility and piano black accents on the instrument panel and window switches. The car also gains a new Stratus Gray interior color, an upgraded backup monitor and heated / ventilated front seats on F Sport variants. Last but not least, the model receives a Lexus Enform Remote system that enables users to control certain vehicle functions - such as the door locks and climate control system - from a mobile app.
Engine options carryover and include a 2.5-liter V6 with 204 bhp (152 kW) and a 3.5-liter V6 that develops 306 bhp (228 kW). The entry-level engine is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission while the 3.5-liter unit is connected to an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift automatic gearbox.
Note: 2014 Lexus IS pictured
Skyper announced plans to introduce a B6 Venator Spyder later this year and a new report is indicating it will be unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.
Details are limited but Autoblog says a source has confirmed the model will debut at the classic car show next month. It will reportedly be a concept in the same vein as the B6 Venator Coupe. This means the model will likely feature a carbon fiber body, an aluminum chassis and a mid-mounted V6 engine that develops more than 375 HP (276 kW).
The B6 Venator Coupe is slated to go into production early next year and be sold in Asia, Europe, India and the Middle East. It will eventually arrive in the United States, in the fall of 2014, where it will cost approximately $150,000.
California-based Lucra has released the first pictures of their upcoming sports car which is reportedly codenamed the 2.2.
The company didn't have much to say about the model but it features a distinctive front fascia with LED-infused headlights and a carbon fiber front splitter. Moving further back, we can see bulging fenders, a side-exiting exhaust and a rakish windscreen. The model also has a stylish rear end with twin rollover hoops that flow into the rear bumper.
There's no word on what will power the model, but the company's LC470 is available with a 6.2-liter LS3 V8, a 7.0-liter LS7 V8 and an AMG-sourced 6.3-liter V8 that can be equipped with an optional Weistec supercharger.
There is an overlying stigma that trying to buy a fun and sporty car will cost you an arm and a leg. We decided to set the record straight, and with a shoe-string budget of only $20,000 we have been able to come up with 10 brand-new cars that will make any enthusiast happy without breaking the bank. To make the list, each car must demonstrate a certain level of character, fun, and practicality. Cars were chosen based on weight, handling ability, and power. Also, every car chosen offers a manual transmission on the engine/trim level that we have chosen. So fun, practical and available with three-pedals. There isn't much more that you really need when looking for a fun and cheap car.
Before you start frying about the great cars that are available for just a little bit more like the Mazda Miata and Ford Fiesta ST, or the amazing cars you can get used, we wanted to focus on the really cheap side of things. If you are already stretching your budget to get a $19-$20k car, buying something at $23k is just not an option. Also, if you are already stretching your budget to hit that $20k mark, the last thing you can afford is the cost of repairs and maintenance that comes with every used car. A full warranty is a very important thing for this market.
With all of that out of the way, let's jump into this. As always, feel free to tell me how awesome and right all my choices are. If you think I left something off this list, let me know that too. Now hit that jump and enjoy.
See our top ten enthusiast cars for less than $20,000 after the break.
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Nissan has been synonymous with performance ever since the Skyline GT-R was introduced in 1969. The moniker quickly made a name for itself on the street and the track, ultimately evolving into a coupe that went on to dominate the race courses starting in the late 1980s. The saga continued through the 1990s with the R33 and R34 models, and came to an abrupt halt in 2002 when Nissan decided to separate the GT-R line from the Skyline name. Five years later, the GT-R we all know today came alive and things got ridiculously fast and powerful.
Now, with GT-R getting up there in age, Nissan is looking to take it up a notch. One that's likely to include a hybrid powertrain, enormous amounts of power and twist, and a brand-new design approach. The Japanese aren't too keen on divulging the details behind the brand-new GT-R, but they're giving us a taste of the next supercar using the Gran Turismo franchise. Dubbed Nissan Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo - we speculated that it would be called the NC 2020 (not too bad for a guess, right?) - this new concept vehicle will hit said game starting July. We also suspect that this dream project will materialize, in some form or another, as Nissan's upcoming GT-R.
Updated 06/26/2014: Those of you who attended Goodwood had the pleasure of seeing lots of cool cars, including Nissan's Vision Gran Turismo. For the rest of us, Nissan unveiled a new set of images and one new video that explains the design idea behind the new concept.
Click past the jump to read more about the 2014 Nissan Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo.
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Oettinger has released the first details about their upcoming tuning program for the Volkswagen Golf GTI.
On the styling front, the model can be equipped with an aerodynamic body kit that includes a front splitter and a front spoiler. The package also features revised side skirts, a rear diffuser and a tailgate-mounted spoiler. The styling package will be available in August and cost €1990.
For added performance, Oettinger will offer a new air intake, a larger intercooler, a sports exhaust system and an optimized ECU. These changes should enable the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine to produce up to 350 HP (257 kW).
The company will also offer an adjustable sports suspension, a limited slip differential, an upgraded clutch and high-performance brakes.
Queen Elizabeth II's 2001 Daimler Super V8 LWB limousine is going up for auction on August 31st.
The specially-built model was used by the Queen who drove it around Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace. Over the course of three years, the Queen managed to put 15,242 miles (24,529 km) on the odometer.
Since the model was built for the monarch, it features a number of special touches including a center armrest with a slide out section that holds a handbag. The car also has blue flashing strobes lights, non-functional communications equipment and a supercharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that develops 375 bhp (280 kW).
The car is being sold by Historics at Brooklands and is expected to fetch £25,000 - £30,000 ($38,275 - $45,935 / €28,815 - €34,580).
http://www.thecarconnection.com/photos/mercedes-benz_m-class_2013. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML350 SUV Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap
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http://www.jbainfiniti.com/infiniti-fx37-vs-mercedes-benz-mclass-md. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML350 SUV Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap
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http://www.motorauthority.com/photos/ford_flex_2014. 2014 Ford Flex Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap
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http://www.bimmerboost.com/content.php?3441-2014-BMW-F33-435i-convertible-rendered-with-folding-hardtop-Sexy. 2014 BMW 435i Convertible Specification Launched Price Deals Cheap
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Ford has announced the 2015 Mustang will be equipped as standard with an industry-first active glovebox knee airbag.
Without any doubt, the most important technical evolution of the 2015 Mustang is the adoption of an independent rear suspension but the new pony car has another ace up its sleeve, the first ever active glovebox knee airbag. While typical airbags are made from various types of fabric, Ford has used a pliable, injection-molded plastic bladder that has been sandwiched between the inner and outer glovebox door panels.
In case of an impact, the crash sensor system detects the collision and then an inflator fills the bladder which extends the glovebox outer door panel towards the front passenger's legs. It works like a traditional knee airbag as the outer door provides just about the same level of cushioning.
Compared to a regular airbag, this one does not have to travel that far because it extends straight from the instrument panel and it operates at a lower inflation rate since the glovebox's door distributes the impact load over a larger area.
Thanks to this new design, the end result is a 65 percent lighter and 75 percent smaller knee airbag inflator while offering a similar safety level.
Additional details can be found in the attached press release.
Latest spy shots show Ford is preparing a modest facelift for the Ranger pickup truck likely to be revealed in the months to come.
Launched in October 2010, the Ford Ranger is getting ready to undergo a makeover which will also be applied onto the U.S.-spec 2015/2016 Everest since the two models share the same platform. The prototype seen here was spotted undergoing testing somewhere in southern Europe and was featuring a comprehensive camouflage on the front fascia.
Expect a redesigned grille flanked by reshaped headlights and there should also be a different front bumper together with new fog lights. Although the prototype wasn't wearing any disguise at the back, we do expect some minor updates of the taillights.
Engine lineup will likely be carried over so expect a 4-cylinder, 2.2-liter turbodiesel with 150 PS (110 kW) and 375 Nm (277 lb-ft) along with a 3.2-liter TDCi rated at 200 PS (147 kW) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft). These will work with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional automatic gearbox.
An official reveal will likely occur before the end of the year, with sales to commence at the beginning of 2015.
Mazda MX-5 Roadster is celebrating its 25th birthday this year. The MX-5 Roadster made its public debut at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show and has enjoyed quite a bit of success since its launch.
The Mazda MX-5 roadster 25th Anniversary Limited Edition will be powered by a 160hp 2.0-litre engine that can take the car from standstill to 62mph in sub-8 seconds. The MX-5 Roadster has a top speed of 136mph with perfect, 50:50 weight distribution and a low moment of inertia for outstanding agility and driving enjoyment.
The Mazda MX-5 25th Anniversary Limited Edition will go on sale from August 1st, 2014 and is limited to only 1000 production units (individually numbered).
Audi revealed details for its latest concept car - the 2014 Audi RS 5 TDI concept. The concept car is powered by a V6 bi-turbo engine which produces 385 hp of max power and a peak torque of 750Nm.
The supplemental electric turbocharger provides for staggering power when starting off. An electric motor replaces the turbine wheel and accelerates the compressor wheel to over 70,000 rpm in a few hundredths of a second. The exhaust turbochargers also provide as much as 2.4 bar of relative boost pressure.
The RS 5 TDI Concept completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4 seconds and reaches 200 km/h in less than 16 seconds, and has a top speed of 280km/h. The average fuel consumption of less than 5.3 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (44 mpg).
The Mercedes-Benz CLS was introduced for the 2005 model year and went on sale in the United States in January 2005. Based on the previous-generation E-Class, the four-door coupe started a whole niche in the automotive industry, soon to be followed by Audi and BMW. The first-generation model was offered with a bevy of V-6 and V-8 engines that delivered as much as 507 horsepower. The second-generation coupe arrived in 2010, but the U.S.-spec version didn't arrive until the 2012 model year. Unlike its predecessor, the current model gained a 4.7-liter V-8 and a 2.1-liter, inline-four diesel to go with the already available 3.0-liter oil burner. The Shooting Brake body style was introduced in late 2012, but without being green lighted for the U.S. market. In 2015, the CLS is set for a facelift.
Four years since showing up in global showrooms, the current generation 2015 CLS is getting its well-deserved facelift. The update's real focus is the interior, where a new color display is in place to put an end to an endless string of complaints in regards to the coupe's infotainment system. A couple of new engines are also on the table, although at least one of them won't be available in the United States.
Click past the jump to read more about the 2015 Mercedes CLS-Class.
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Generally speaking, off-road performance and track performance are not realms that can exist together within one vehicle. But somehow, Land Rover has been breaking the laws of physics with its Range Rover Sport since its debut in 2005. Now it seems Land Rover has decided to abolish all traces of such forces that keep large SUVs from handling well around corners. Meet the upcoming Range Rover Sport RS.
Yep, RS. Land Rover is taking the already sporty Sport and turning up the juice for a more engaging, on-road experience thanks to a few key improvements, not the least of which is a more powerful engine. It's highly likely the standard Sport's 5.0-liter, supercharged V-8 will remain, but with the same 40-horsepower bump the Jaguar XFR-S enjoys. That brings the Range Rover's normal 510-horsepower mill up to 550 ponies. Expect Jaguar's extra 41 pound-feet of torque to transfer over as well, bringing that total to 502 pound-feet.
Click past the jump for more speculation on the Range Rover Sport RS
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We're eagerly awaiting the Lamborghini Gallardo successor, but the company appears to be preparing another special edition of their aging supercar.
The Supercarteam managed to snap a handful of photos of a mysterious prototype they're calling the Gallardo Squadra Corsa. Little is known about the model but the website indicates it could be a facelifted version of the Super Trofeo Stradale.
Nothing is official but the camouflage suggests the model will come equipped with a new front bumper and revised side skirts. We can also see a prominent rear wing and a sporty rear diffuser.
Interestingly, the model bears a resemblance to the Gallardo GT3 Squadra Corse which was jointly-developed with Reiter Engineering. This could imply the Squadra Corsa name is a bit of a misnomer but hopefully we'll find out soon enough.
Hit up the source link for additional photos
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Mercedes has announced plans to introduce a luxury yacht at the Monaco Yacht Show in September.
Dubbed the "Silver Arrow of the Seas," the 14 meter (46 feet) long Gran Turismo combines the "typical design features of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars with innovations that were previously unknown in the boatbuilding industry."
The model was created with the assistance of Mercedes designers and promises to feature "innovative versatility and intelligent use of space." Mercedes also revealed the yacht is suitable for day excursions but also has sleeping quarters for an undisclosed number of people.
The boat will be built by Silver Arrow Marine and promises to be a "new class of motor yacht" for a "new class of owner."
A design study was recently presented at the Mercedes-Benz Style exhibition at the Porto Montenegro marina, so expect to learn more in the coming weeks.
The Chevrolet Spark and Sonic (aka Aveo) are relatively new in the United States but the cars have been on sale in international markets for a few years. As a result, General Motor is gearing for the production of the next-generation of models.
According to South Korean labor union spokesman Choi Jong-hak, the next-generation Spark will go into production in early 2015. The Aveo, on the other hand, has been pushed back to 2016 from its original launch date of late 2015.
General Motors declined to comment on the report but Jong-hak said the information was given to union negotiators during wage talks last week. Unfortunately, there's no word on what we can expect but we should learn more in the coming years.
Honda and McLaren are reportedly considering a broader partnership than their previously announced Formula 1 engine supply deal.
Speaking to Autocar, McLaren F1 boss Martin Whitmarsh said the current deal is a "pure Formula 1 contract but we’ve already been looking at automotive technology and we’re sharing that very openly." He went on to say "Our road car strategy, at the moment, has no other automotive partner and Honda would be a good place to collaborate.”
Whitmarsh declined to go into specifics but speculation suggests the companies could sign a bilateral technical arrangement which would benefit road-going models from both automakers.
While a broader partnership sounds tantalizing Whitmarsh cautioned any benefits, from the proposed tie-up, would be several years off.
Alfa Romeo has unveiled their 4C safety car, ahead of its debut at the FIM World Superbike Championship this weekend.
Dressed to impress, the one-off model has a two-tone exterior with red, white and green stripes running the length of the body.
Like the standard model, the safety car is powered by a 1.75-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 240 HP (176 kW) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. It is connected to a dual-clutch transmission which enables the model to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.5 seconds and hit a top speed in excess of 155 mph (250 km/h).
According to Alfa Romeo UK Head Damien Dally, “Alfa Romeo is a proud sponsor of the FIM World Superbike Championship having been associated with the series for seven years now. As we prepare to launch the Alfa 4C here in the UK, it’s fantastic to be able to showcase this car to the public for a second time as it takes to the prestigious Silverstone circuit.”
Audi has announced the 2014 RS 7 will be priced from $104,900 in the United States.
Set to arrive at dealerships this fall, the model is distinguished by modified bumpers, a honeycomb grille and two elliptical tailpipes. The hatchback can also be equipped with optional matte aluminum or carbon fiber accents.
The sporty styling carries over to the cabin as it features a flat-bottomed steering wheel, Valcona leather sport seats and an RS-specific shift knob. The model also has carbon fiber trim, aluminum pedals and an MMI Touch infotainment system with internet connectivity.
Power is provided by a twin-turbo 4.0-liter TFSI V8 engine that develops 560 HP (412 kW) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a quattro all-wheel drive system which enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 174 mph (280 km/h).
The Mercedes-Benz MLC has been spied wearing the ML-Class skin while undergoing testing.
It's been a while since we last heard about the MLC so these spy shots come at the right time. Set to rival the BMW X6, the MLC will be out sometime in 2015 and will be interesting to see how this criticized yet popular body style is being envisioned by Mercedes-Benz.
We know so far it will ride on a modified ML-Class platform, hence these mules which might tempt you to say they are regular MLs. However, upon a closer inspection you will notice both front and rear axles are wider, while the chassis underneath seems to be a bit lower at the front section.
The car will allegedly be manufactured at a Mercedes-Benz factory in Tuscaloosa, Alabama where Daimler is investing 350M USD to create 400 new jobs to match the extra production. This is where they currently make the ML and GL models which will be joined next year by the new C-Class. The company decided last year to stop producing the peculiar R-Class at this plant.
Chances are a preview concept of the MLC will be shown next year before the production version arrives in 2015.
G-Power has unveiled a revision to its upgrade program for the BMW M3 GTS, which is now even stronger and more efficient thanks to their supercharger system. The supercharger kit costs 23,500 EUR plus installation.
The GTS SK II Sporty Drive TU Supercharger system gives 650 hp / 478 kW at 7800 rpm and a torque of 630 Nm 3900 rpm. The BMW M3 GTS will sprint to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.1 seconds, while 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) takes 11.8 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 200.7 mph (323 km/h).
The package can be complemented by 20-inch SILVERSTONE CS forged alloys with Michelin tires priced at 7.437,00 (net) and the G-POWER ceramic breaking system for the front axle is 14.460,00 (net), respectively 11.778,00 (net) for the rear axle.
Germany based tuner AC Schnitzer revealed a new turning program for the BMW M6 Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe. AC Schnitzer has proved that the BMW M6 range has been designed for high performance and outstanding technology.
AC Schnitzer aerodynamic components provide more sportiness. The components include carbon front spoiler, chrome grille, a carbon fiber rear diffuser, a sports rear silencer with twin chromed "Sport Trim" tailpipes and weight-optimised 20 or 21 inch wheels which even at a standstill are indicative of the asphalt-hugging stance.
In the interior the motorsport atmosphere is elegantly maintained by the "Black Line" aluminium cover for BMW "i-Drive system controller", aluminium pedal set, aluminium footrests and floor mats in velours.
Zagato has announced plans of two very special Aston Martins to pay tribute to the latter company's 100th Anniversary.
The two very special projects include the DBS Coupe Zagato Centennial, described as an exotic cross of Aston Martin DNA with Italian flair and Milanese inspiration and the DB9 Spyder Zagato Centennial, built for American car collector Peter Read.
The DBS Coupe Zagato Centennial with the V12 powerplant was conceived for a young and prestigious Japanese entrepreneur. It features a stylish front fascia with a prominent grille and retro headlights. There's also a double bubble roof, a distinctive rear end and a unique greenhouse.
Maserati has officially released a set of images for its latest sports executive sedan, the 2014 Maserati Ghibli. The Maserati Ghibli will make it public debut at the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show later this month.
The Maserati Ghibli will be available with two turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engines, an eight-speed automatic transmission and both rear-wheel drive and the new "Q4" all-wheel drive system.
The Ghibli will also become the first Maserati production car in history to be powered by a diesel engine, with a 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel.
Audi debuted the 2014 Audi RS7 Sportback at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show in Detroit. Aesthetic design, innovative technology and impressive sportiness are the terms to define the fascinating character of the RS 7 Sportback.
The RS 7 Sportback is powered by the twin-turbo V8 4.0-liter gasoline engine which develops awesome power, with 412 kW (560 hp) and a constant 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft) of torque. The power unit is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission sending the power to the quattro AWD system. The new top model of the model series consumes on average just 9.8 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.00 US mpg).
The RS 7 Sportback sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 3.9 seconds. Audi limits the top speed in the standard configuration to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Top speed with the optional dynamic package is 280 km/h (173.98 mph) and 305 km/h (189.52 mph) with the dynamic package plus.
MINI has unveiled a new concept called "Vision" based on a virtual 3D hologram which showcases various elements of future MINI design.
The Glamorous Gold paint finish - a shimmering gold-tinged orange tone - has never been seen before in the history of MINI design. And the use of organo metal creates an intriguing contrast to this gleaming metallic shade.
The design of the MINI Vision reaches with future-focused aesthetic and technical innovations by a new-look hexagonal radiator grille. Both the bumper and auxiliary lights are integrated into the grille. Other elements include elliptical full-LED headlights, chrome strip wrapped around the top of the body, the distinctive side indicator element and the black band framing.
A Mazda official has shed some light about the forthcoming lineup changes.
Starting July 1, Seita Kanai will become Mazda’s chairman and in an interview given to Motoring he acknowledged the automaker is analyzing the prospects of introducing a smaller crossover. Likely to be called the "CX-3", such a model is "fully feasible" according to Kanai who refused to mention a launch date but chances are the vehicle will be introduced before the end of this year.
Besides the CX-3, in the months to come we should see the all-new MX-5 as well as the CX-9 which are all programmed to go on sale in the first half of 2015, even though previous reports indicated the CX-9 is slated for a 2016 release.
Don't expect a smaller model to slot below the upcoming Mazda2 as Kanai believes the company can't make money with such a small car. However, it is believed the aforementioned Mazda2 will spawn a MINI Cooper competitor that will wear the Verisa nameplate and will be more upscale and stylish. A preview concept will reportedly be introduced at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show while the production version will hit the market in Q1 2016.
Note: 2011 Mazda Minagi concept pictured.
A 1975 Lamborghini Countach LP400 “Periscopica” was sold during a Bonhams auction for 1.2M USD.
Over the decades Lamborghini has managed to keep its designs outrageous but very few cars can hold a candle to the iconic Countach. What we have here is an early model part of the initial batch of 150 cars that received the Periscopica name as a reference to the periscope mounted on the roof which was wasn't very effective and as a consequence it was discontinued after the model year 1977.
As years passed by, Lamborghini applied more and more scoops and vents onto the Countach which is why many consider the first cars to be the most beautiful. Production was conducted between 1974 and 1990 during which 2,042 units were made and this particular car was built in 1975 and as you can see it looks like it just came off the assembly line.
Wearing an attractive Blue Tahiti paint scheme, it's the first Countach to break the 1M USD mark and for good reason since it looks exceptional. It was driven for only 10,252 miles (16,500 km) and even though the chassis number doesn't match the engine, former Lamborghini test driver Valentino Balboni says during the Countach's early days of manufacturing it wasn't unusual to install an engine that wasn't in the production order. Balboni says there are "known reasons to consider engine number 1120070 [as] originally fitted by the manufacturer in chassis 1120066."
A more in-depth description can be found at the source link below.
Tension between arch F1 rivals Mercedes and Red Bull is ramping up ahead of the forthcoming Austrian grand prix.
Recently, Mercedes team chairman Niki Lauda criticised Red Bull for axing the 'Niki Lauda Kurve' at the refurbished Red Bull-Ring and naming it after a sponsor instead.
And now, a spat has broken out over Mercedes' accommodation for the forthcoming Austrian grand prix, where the race promoter is Red Bull mogul Dietrich Mateschitz.
A rumour circulated in the Montreal paddock on Saturday that Mercedes had cancelled its bookings near the Red Bull-Ring because it discovered that the new owner of the hotel was none other than Mateschitz.
But Mercedes' Toto Wolff is quoted by Kleine Zeitung newspaper: "We were kicked out."
Mercedes team staff will instead stay in nearby Graz.
Wolff complained: "Those who work the most and the hardest on the cars will now have to commute 70 kilometres each day."
Ferrari sources have reacted swiftly to extinguish the latest big rumour as the 'silly season' steps up a gear in Montreal.
Swirling around the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve paddock on Saturday were whispers that, having failed to match Fernando Alonso's pace in the first third of 2014, Kimi Raikkonen could be set to be axed by Ferrari.
However, that move would be an echo of Raikkonen's last Maranello exit, when the fabled Italian team had to pay the Finn millions to end his solid 2010 contract.
Likewise in 2014, Raikkonen is firmly under contract not only for this year, but also 2015, when he is expected to be paid some $30 million whether he races or not.
"Ferrari will not fire Kimi a second time," a Ferrari source told the German magazine Sport Bild.
Recalling the amount of money it cost Ferrari to oust Raikkonen in 2009, the source added: "Ferrari doesn't want to do that again."
A driver manager also told Sport Bild: "It would cost Ferrari up to $30 million because he has a contract until 2015 with an option for another year."
