Autonovelties

A bucket and sponge...

A bucket and sponge are too much hassle for some drivers. And thatтЂ™s where Eco-SheenтЂ™s new Waterless Car Wash will come in really handy.

According to research...

According to research from easyMoney.com nearly half of the youngsters buy their own car, with only a quarter relying on a helping hand from their parents.

A clever device that...

A clever device that could stop thousands of drivers misfuelling has won financial backing on the hit BBC TV show DragonsтЂ™ Den. Mike CottonтЂ™s invention replaces the filler neck with a resized one that wonтЂ™t allow the smaller petrol nozzle into a diesel car.

A company insider told...

A company insider told Auto Express: "Customers are tuning their cars beyond the 330bhp of the current range-topping model, so there"s obviously the demand for an even faster version."

After a season of thrills...

After a season of thrills, spills and the occasional near-punch-up between warring drivers, the premier race series in the UK will roar into Donington Park for the final three rounds on Sunday 26 September.

Aftermarket specialist...

Aftermarket specialist Richbrook has come up with a neat solution to thwart the crooks, with its anti-theft number plate bolts kit. The device features a special sleeve that makes the bolts a permanent fixture on your car, unless you use the hex wrench that is supplied in the packet to remove them.

A Japanese importer...

A Japanese importer has snapped up all the surviving cars from the hit US movie the Fast and the Furious 3 - Tokyo Drift, and is putting them up for auction.

Already a successful...

Already a successful range of luxury and sports models in North America, the Middle and Far East, the Infiniti range will be sold through "a dedicated dealer network" according to Nissan"s official statement, though it seems likely this will be an adjunct to the existing Nissan network, rather than entirely new showrooms.

And a price hike to...

And a price hike to чЈ1.50 would make 42 per cent of users do so. That"s according to insurer More Than. Its research found 11.5 million UK car owners cut back on road trips in the past year due to bigger bills. David Pitt of More Than said: "Rising fuel prices have an impact on motorists" behaviour."

A new survey from insurers...

A new survey from insurers elephant.co.uk shows that over a third of all drivers have used their phone while driving, with those in the North East of England the worst offenders - more than half of all drivers there admit to it.

A new system called...

A new system called Tracker Response uses GPS technology and a driver validation set-up. If the car is started by someone without the special electronic tag, a text message or E-mail is sent to the owner. They can call a control centre to say whether the motor should be moving or not - and even monitor the vehicle"s movements remotely via any PC! Anxious parents will also be able to keep an eye on how fast grown-up children are driving when they borrow the car, as the unit has a speed limit alert function.

As part of the firm"s...

As part of the firm"s www.mini.com website, visitors are invited to click on virtual bubble wrap to uncover this image. The idea is that fans are "bursting" for the new MINI Clubman to arrive, and can register for E-mail updates on the model once they have been shown the official image.

A spokesman for the...

A spokesman for the UK arm of the company said: "The car is here to show the United States that we do little motors as well." But interest was nearly as low key as the model"s presentation, with only a handful of onlookers checking out the blue and silver ForTwo.

Audi will finally develop...

Audi will finally develop their Steppenwolf concept into a production vehicle, but won’t be using the A3’s chassis and body design. Instead, it is going to use a refined quattro all-wheel-drive system and powerful petrol engines as well as TDIs built around a redesigned A4 chassis. The car is likely to hit the roads in 2007 and will be amongst the first compact SUVs to be at the dealers, by then badged the Q5. While the massive bumpers, the sump guard and the chrome door sill protections can be regarded as pure show, the greater ground clearance in combination with powerful engines and an extended towing capacity will certainly appeal young buyers with sporty ambitions.

Based on the current...

Based on the current car"s platform, which is also likely to underpin the forthcoming Smart ForMore, the Colt Plus is 300mm longer than the standard version. As a result, it offers a bigger cabin, which should help it in the sales battle against rivals such

Based on the XJ, the...

Based on the XJ, the aluminium Daimler is powered by a 400bhp 4.2-litre supercharged V8 engine, producing a 0-60mph time of five seconds and a 155mph top speed. The car is set apart from the Jag by the Daimler fluted radiator grille, plus chrome trim on the door mirrors and rear light clusters.

Britain is broken, according...

Britain is broken, according to Conservative leader David Cameron. And he plans to fix it... with the help of a Haynes manual! It may seem bizarre, but the latest Tory manifesto has been printed in the format of the famous DIY car repair guides.

But the really clever...

But the really clever bit is that if they"re about to overstay their welcome, drivers can buy more time at any other pay station in the city - simply by keying in their numbered bay. The innovation also signals the end of leaving your ticket on the dashboard, because paid-for parking spots are tracked electronically.

But there"s bad news...

But there"s bad news for British rally fans. It"s available only to customers in America, even though its UK heritage was played up at the unveiling, where the model was hidden beneath a huge Union Jack flag.

Buying a motor is stressful...

Buying a motor is stressful enough, but imagine if you learned that you had paid for a stolen car. Now you can eliminate this worry by buying a TextCheck Access Card.

Called VentureCam, it"s...

Called VentureCam, it"s a wireless camera that transmits real-time moving colour pictures back to a dashboard-mounted screen. It can be placed anywhere within 20 metres of the car, and allows the driver to see how close he is to objects.

Capable of 204mph, the...

Capable of 204mph, the new GT2 covers the 0-60mph dash in 3.6 seconds and will sprint from 0-100mph in 7.4 seconds.

Car air freshener makers...

Car air freshener makers Auto Expressions asked smell expert David Prybus to analyse 130 cars from 5 cities, and to rank their smells from 1 (putrid) to 10 (pleasant).

Central to the new set-up...

Central to the new set-up is its USB port. Hidden out of the way at the back of the unit, and accessed via an optional flying lead, this allows users to connect their MP3 player and listen to their digital music through the car’s speakers.

Cigarettes can damage...

Cigarettes can damage your wealth, as well as your health. A lorry driver has been fined чЈ260 for lighting up in his truck cab.

Click on the links below...

Click on the links below for the best stories, latest updates and all the pictures of China"s biggest expo.

Comprising material...

Comprising material made of extremely thin strands of fabric, carbon fibre is mostly made of carbon atoms, hence the name. The microscopic particles are bonded as crystals that are more or less aligned parallel to the long axis of the fibre, making it very strong for its size. Several thousand carbon fibres are twisted together to form a yarn, which may be used by itself or woven into a fabric.

Could this be the future...

Could this be the future for Ferrari? Inspired by the prancing horseтЂ™s Formula One race car and the cockpit of a fighter jet, the stunning single-seater super car is the brainchild of Iranian designer Siamak Ruhi Dehkordi.

Could this be the start...

Could this be the start of the great un-humping? in 2003 the council of Yate in South Gloucestershire decided to install speed humps after just 38 people voted in favour, from a population of 4,500.

Councillors defended...

Councillors defended the move by pointing to the number of Christ-mas party and dinner bookings that have already been made at hotels and restaurants at this time of year. They have called for such venues to include a campaign leaflet with their booking forms.

Czech Republic: A coffee...

Czech Republic: A coffee company offered customers the chance to win a VW Golf - and more than three million people entered, bringing the postal system to a halt.

Despite being based...

Despite being based on a van, the model has been developed to give car-like levels of comfort, refinement and performance. Handling and ride have been improved, thanks to a stiffer chassis and self-levelling rear air-suspension. The interior gets higher-quality plastics and soft velour seat trim. Boot space is a class-leading 327 litres.

Driverless electric...

Driverless electric cars could soon be ferrying passengers at Heathrow AirportтЂ™s Terminal Five.

Engineers have developed...

Engineers have developed the six-piece "ZeroKit" bodykit which gives the five-door hatch some added spice. The low front splitter, side sills and rear spoiler combine with dark tinted headlamps to give the Savvy an aggressive look.

Exclusive spy shots...

Exclusive spy shots in this week"s mag reveal the new hatchback"s more radical rear end. The high tailgate and narrow light clusters on the edge of the boot give it a chunky look and an enormous luggage area. There will also be more room for passengers in the back compared to the outgoing Laguna.

Fancy being first for...

Fancy being first for an Infiniti FX SUV? With five months to go until the European launch of NissanтЂ™s premium brand, it has created a website on which potential customers can place an order.

Feast your eyes on Ford"s...

Feast your eyes on Ford"s new look...for the US market at least! The Blue Oval has unveiled its European-inspired Taurus, which goes on sale stateside this summer.

Feast your eyes on the...

Feast your eyes on the hottest Mitsubishi pick-up ever. This is the L200 Walkinshaw Performance – and as the name suggests, it’s a flat bed which has been tuned by legendary racer and motorsport team boss Tom Walkinshaw.

First unveiled at this...

First unveiled at this year"s Frankfurt Motor Show, Toyota showed off its IQ concept which is due to be launched at the end of 2008 and hit showrooms early next year.

First up is the Portico...

First up is the Portico concept, which was unveiled at last week"s Chicago Motor Show. The company"s stylists claim to have made the large people carrier look nearly as sleek and stylish as a sports car.

For 2005, bosses have...

For 2005, bosses have upped the ante on the standard car and are also offering the new Mulliner Driving Specification. MDS buyers get huge 20-inch, seven-spoke alloys with stickier tyres, giving a more athletic look and improved handling.

For both drivers, it...

For both drivers, it marks a return to the team that was once called Jordan. They were paired together in 1997 – Schumacher’s first year in the sport, Fisichella’s second. “At the moment, it’s just one test to see how we get on working together,” said Ralf. “I think I can help the team with its development programme, but we will see.” Fisichella added: “I was invited to test with the Force India F1 Team at Jerez, and I was very happy to accept it.”

Fresh from the launch...

Fresh from the launch of the ESF Concept, Mercedes has shown that not just safety, but style is on their agenda too! The firm has revealed the special-edition SLK 2LOOK.

German tuning specialist...

German tuning specialist Wolf Concept has put together a package of engine and suspension upgrades that make the blue oval"s fastest Focus even more rapid.

Granted, slip-on covers...

Granted, slip-on covers are normally reserved for minicabs, but this option is worth a try. It simply plugs into your 12V cigar lighter and warms up in no time at all.

Green trips up again

Green trips up again

Hammersmith-based greentomatocars...

Hammersmith-based greentomatocars has begun a pilot operation in west London which it plans to roll out across the capital by the summer, targetting a fleet of 50 by the end of June.

Having achieved a high...

Having achieved a high rating from Euro NCAP for the Kuga, Ford is hoping to score points with drivers – by introducing new adjustable pedals on its cars.

Hear this Leon roar!...

Hear this Leon roar! SEAT has revealed details of a new Linea R trim level for its hatch, inspired by the companyтЂ™s World Touring Car Championship winner.

He came up with the...

He came up with the idea after visiting a motorcycle show called the Bulldog Bash, held annually near Stratford-upon-Avon in Warks. Malcolm told us: "I tried to build a trike from a different angle. I did it in my garden shed and I reckon it took 1,000 hours. I get a few stares from people when I"m out in it." Power comes from a rear-mounted Renault 5 engine. Under the polished aluminium bodyshell is a tubular spaceframe chassis, and there is even a roll-hoop behind the driver"s seat in case of accidents.

Here’s a Suzuki...

Here’s a Suzuki that really makes a splash. The Maki concept, unveiled at the LA Auto Show, is inspired by California’s surfing culture.

Here"s proof that MINI...

Here"s proof that MINI engineers are working flat-out on a new evolution of the JCW Clubman aimed at UK drivers.

Here"s proof that the...

Here"s proof that the XFR is the fastest Jaguar ever!

Hex keys can easily...

Hex keys can easily be lost in a toolbox тЂ“ so Laser has come up with a novel way of keeping them together. The latest set not only folds down into a neat multi-tool-sized package, but it also includes a ratchet wrench.

Hot on the heels of...

Hot on the heels of the all-new 7-Series, BMW has pulled the wraps off its revamped 3-Series.

Hot on the heels of...

Hot on the heels of the introduction of the UK-wide smoking ban, the research shows that the car’s days as a refuge for smokers are clearly numbered. The survey also discovered that even if potential buyers were prepared to purchase a smokey vehicle, the seller would have to drop their price by up to ?700.

If the Ghost is the...

If the Ghost is the new "Baby Rolls", here"s the MINI version! Spied in the workshop receiving its finishing touches, this is definitely one small car with big ideas.

In extreme cases, the...

In extreme cases, the damage can be so severe that scars similar to those pictured in this week"s mag are left on the side of the rubber. Even if the tyre appears to be unharmed, microscopic perforations may still be present, which can weaken the tyre and cause a blow-out.

Insiders at a satellite-navigation...

Insiders at a satellite-navigation software supplier have told us that car buyers will soon be able to tailor the data on sat-nav discs to suit their own preferences. "We can store a huge amount of information on the DVDs, so it"s merely a question of how much the consumer wants to know," our source said.

Instead of starting...

Instead of starting with a cautious 100-model run as reported in Issue 950, the Austrian brand has decided to increase output to 1,000 models a year as soon as possible.

Instead, the model...

Instead, the model, out later this year, will be called the Land Rover LR3. However, the number 3 will also grace UK cars - it will be known as Discovery 3. A spokesman said: "The Range Rover was the main product when we came to the States, so buyers think of it as a brand on its own, and regard Discovery as a Range Rover model name.

Is the Silver Ghost...

Is the Silver Ghost set to rise again? Reports suggest the next Rolls-Royce will wear one of the most famous badges in motoring when itтЂ™s released next year.

Is this the car that...

Is this the car that will save the reputation of Renault"s baby? Following a lukewarm reception from city car fans, the firm"s hopes rest on the hot Renaultsport version of the new Twingo to win customers over.

It also features tuned...

It also features tuned suspension for a sportier drive, and is powered by a 164bhp 2.3-litre petrol engine. Only 500 examples will be made, with hatchbacks costing н‚бЈ19,000 and estates priced at н‚бЈ20,000.

It follows the case...

It follows the case of Kevin McGuire, who parked perfectly legally in Bury, Greater Manchester. However, an NCP parking employee doctored a digital photo"s date to make it look like he"d broken the law. Mark Littlewood of civil rights group Liberty thinks it raises questions about what other camera images could be changed: "Tampering with evidence to secure a conviction is a serious offence, and one that should not only lead to a disciplinary action but also a criminal action," he said.

IT looks like a half-eaten...

IT looks like a half-eaten boiled egg, but the people behind this pod (below) argue it’s the best child seat in the world.

It might look like part...

It might look like part of a circus act, but the nose of this prototype reveals its true identity. Take a look at the latest MINI SUV mule.

It’s not the first...

It’s not the first time car makers have been desperate for sales, but Jeep was said to be offering the deal of the century last week.

It"s not just the range-topping...

It"s not just the range-topping R8 that Audi is opening up on. The upcoming A1 city car will also get a convertible version, as well as a family of bodystyles.

It"s the cat that"s...

It"s the cat that"s got the cream! One of the stars of the Jaguar stand at the New York Motor Show was the sumptuous XJ Portfolio.

ItтЂ™s not long now...

ItтЂ™s not long now before we get to feast our eyes on the new Rolls Royce RR4 at the Geneva ShowтЂ¦ But that hasnтЂ™t stopped our spies from hunting down a close-to-production prototype and bagging the best interior shots yet!

ItтЂ™s the most expensive...

ItтЂ™s the most expensive car ever to sell at auction. This black 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa has just been bought at the famous Leggenda e Passione auction in Maranello by an unknown bidder. Selling for a record т‚¬9.02 million, the historic Ferrari broke the previous record by т‚¬1.98, a mark set at the same event last year.

ItтЂ™s the shape of...

ItтЂ™s the shape of things to come from Czech car maker Skoda.

Joerg Winterberg, 60...

Joerg Winterberg, 60, of Berlin, Germany, moaned to Ferrari that his limited-edition supercar was "only" capable of 174mph, and not the 185mph figure claimed in the sales brochure. "I could have bought a Porsche for much less and still had the same performance. I want my money back," he said. However, the Italian manufacturer has refused to give in to the disappointed owner"s demands.

Just in time for summer...

Just in time for summer, Audi"s R8 is blowing its top! These sensational spy shots show the latest addition to its R8 range тЂ“ the Spyder.

Lexus has confirmed...

Lexus has confirmed it will launch its brand-new LS 460 at the Moscow Motor Show on 26 August.

Look what washed up...

Look what washed up at the Detroit Motor Show тЂ“ it"s the MINI Beachcomber! Making its public debut on its own desert island complete with palm tree and deck chairs, the re-born Moke was a big hit.

Mazda is keeping the...

Mazda is keeping the 5 alive for 2008 with a raft of improvements

Mitsubishi is set to...

Mitsubishi is set to reveal a new version of its electric i MiEV Sport concept at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

More than 44,000 motorists...

More than 44,000 motorists face fines of up to ТЈ1,000 for failing to replace their photocard driving licences after the statutory 10 years.

New research reveals...

New research reveals that British drivers are ignoring warnings about the dangers of drink driving. Nearly two thirds (60 per cent) of British motorists believe that they are perfectly safe to drink and drive, according to a new study commissioned by Privilege Insurance.

Now you can remove bacteria...

Now you can remove bacteria from your car with Pureair air-con cleaner. It comes in a 250ml pressurised can and contains an ingredient called biocide, a form of disinfectant, which leaves your car germ-free in 15 minutes.

Porsche is looking to...

Porsche is looking to raise the roof with another version of its facelifted 911! This is the Targa тЂ“ a mix between a coupé and convertible, with a two-piece sliding glass lid.

Production of the stylish...

Production of the stylish family car has now begun at the blue oval"s Genk factory in Belgium. Incredibly, the four-door saloon, five-door hatch and load-lugging estate variants are all built on the same busy production line - alongside the Ford S-MAX people carrier and Galaxy MPV.

Removing trim from your...

Removing trim from your car usually requires a specialist set of bits тЂ“ like this new package from Laser Tools. With 15 parts of various sizes and a quick chuck and socket adaptor, it should be all youтЂ™ll ever need.

Research carried out...

Research carried out by the Departч­ment for Transport found that charges could lead to more accidents, because drivers would use minor roads to avoid them. Another risk is that motorists will travel before dawn and after dusk to cut their commuting costs.

RussiaтЂ™s largest car...

RussiaтЂ™s largest car manufacturer AvtoVAZ, donated a complete section of its show stand today to show off its new Lada C-Cross concept in Moscow.

Scientists at US company...

Scientists at US company MAXAIR have developed a hi-tech system that continually checks rubber and inflates it if needed. Using technology it already sup?plies to HGV manufacturers, the firm has created the Automatic Tyre Monitoring and Inflation (ATMI) set-up, which features an on-board compressor to independently watch and vary inflation levels.

She"s already proved...

She"s already proved sheтЂ™s got the X Factor тЂ“ and now, pop star Cheryl Cole has followed her number one chart success by being named as the UKтЂ™s most-wanted car passenger.

Simply attach the foam...

Simply attach the foam ball to a variable speed drill and you can achieve a perfect gloss finish in minutes with or without wax, claims the maker. The чЈ14.99 sponge is suitable for alloys, paintwork and headlight covers, and is ideal for tackling hard-to-get at places such as spoilers and bumpers. Not only does it get to the nooks and crannies a conventional sponge misses, it is reusable, too. Simply clean the ball with washing-up liquid and let it dry.

Singer Benny Lee Thornton...

Singer Benny Lee Thornton penned the tracks, and police chiefs were so impressed they are looking to use them in seminars and educational sessions. Thornton, from Scunthorpe, North Lincs, told us: "I don"t drink and drive, but it"s constantly in your face on TV, so I thought I"d do something about it in my own way."

Starting on April 1st...

Starting on April 1st, and running for 3 months, the scheme allows car hunters to take a car for 72 hours to find out if it really works in their day-to-day driving. Included in the offer are the Corsa, Meriva, Tigra, Astra, Astra Sport Hatch, Zafira and Vectra.

Swedish firm Autoliv...

Swedish firm Autoliv has unveiled its latest innovation, which it says will prevent injuries in rollover accidents. The device focuses on stopping occupants moving. A key element of the set-up is its reverse seatbelt arrangement. With the new system the strap starts at the inside edge of the front seat, not the door pillar. The buckle is located at the base, near the door, instead of by the handbrake. An airbag on the chair"s inside edge prevents the occupant slipping out of their belt - as can happen at present. A spokesman for Autoliv said: "Our system is simple, but the test results are promising."

Taking your driving...

Taking your driving test this Friday? If so, don’t be surprised if your examiner doesn’t turn up!

TataтЂ™s latest offering...

TataтЂ™s latest offering is creating a buzz at the Bologna motorshow! ThatтЂ™s because the Indian firmтЂ™s new Indica EV is an all-electric plug in vehicle.

That"s 20bhp more than...

That"s 20bhp more than the current model.

That"s the experts"...

That"s the experts" shock view after an investigation discovered motorists simply don"t notice other road users.

The 3.2-litre V6 has...

The 3.2-litre V6 has been supercharged, so power is boosted from 215bhp to 330bhp. That means a 0-60mph time of only five seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 158mph.

The Australian sports...

The Australian sports car brand is launching two exciting models in the UK, and they will be sold through Vauxhall"s VXR dealer network, priced from чЈ39,990.

The automotive world...

The automotive world is in shock after one of the most influential men in sports car design was killed in a road accident.

The B4051 Park Row in...

The B4051 Park Row in Bristol was one of the locations where the total number of deaths and serious injuries increased after the installation of a camera. The average was 12.3 per year before the Gatso was introduced, but the figure has leapt to 20 since. Likewise, the number of casualties on the A511 in Swadlincote, Derbyshire, more than doubled - from three to seven a year - after a camera was installed.

The big cat is out of...

The big cat is out of the bag! Here are the first pictures of JaguarтЂ™s facelifted XK, seen for the first time without any front-end camouflage. Т 

The car is based on...

The car is based on the Simba concept, which first appeared at the 2002 Bolgona Motor Show. It has a higher ride height than the standard model, while chunky wheelarch extensions, thick side protectors and underbody strike plates will give it plenty of off-road protection. The pictures also show how the 4x4 has a mounting point for an optional front bullbar.

The course costs guilty...

The course costs guilty motorists чЈ60, and so far the speeders have coughed up чЈ250,000 worth of funding to Avon and Somerset schools since last autumn, thanks to the Operation Taboo initiative.

The credit crunch has...

The credit crunch has claimed another victim тЂ“ BMWтЂ™s striking CS Concept. Plans to produce the sensational sports saloon have been axed as itтЂ™s not financially viable. The luxurious four-door grand tourer was first seen at last yearтЂ™s Shanghai Motor Show, and was destined to go head-to-head with the forthcoming Aston Rapide, Porsche PanТ­amera and Lamborghini Estoque super-saloons.

The device, made by...

The device, made by specialist sound system giant Harman/Kardon, is called the Drive+Play, and it comes in three parts. There"s a "brain" that"s hidden under the dashboard which connects the car"s stereo to the iPod, a display unit and a compact control stick.

The dry aerosol formula...

The dry aerosol formula removes the moisture which sometimes lingers in the cabin after you’ve used your air-conditioning, and in the process shifts nasty-sounding bacteria such as Cladosporium and Aspergillus. These bugs rapidly turn into mould if they are left unchecked. The product also replaces that familiar dank and musty odour with a more pleasant lemon aroma.

The eagerly awaited...

The eagerly awaited Lancia Delta has made its UK debut. The hatch took pride of place on the Lancia Motor Club stand at the Classic Car Show, which was held at BirminghamтЂ™s NEC.

The environmentally...

The environmentally friendly new motor gets is first British airing not at a major motor show in one of the country"s main cities, but instead at an innovative event in Cornwall.

The exciting new 4x4...

The exciting new 4x4 from Jeep will be unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January. A daring development of the 2002 concept, it promises to rival the new Toyota RAV4 and the next Land Rover Freelander. The model is the smallest off-roader the US firm has ever built, and is based on the same platform as the forthcoming Dodge Caliber.

The expansion of Aston...

The expansion of Aston Martin’s global dealership network is all set to move into Russia for the first time in the company’s 94-year history. The Aston Martin franchise has been awarded to Andrey Lomakin and Andrey Boyko who also jointly own A.G. Marine, one of the leading specialists of luxury yachts in Moscow. The new dealership will be located on the prestigious Vozdvizhenka Street and will operate under the name of Aston Martin Moscow.

The famous Ford name...

The famous Ford name is set to return to the BTCC in 2009 after an absence of nearly a decade. Independent team Arena Motorsport has revealed that it will field a squad of Focus STs in next yearтЂ™s championship. Although not a factory-backed effort, it will mean tin-top fans get to see the seriesтЂ™ most successful manufacturer back in action. Since 1959, the blue oval has won 10 championships and a total of 219 races.

The feature-packed SVX...

The feature-packed SVX Defender is a limited edition with 200 cars for UK buyers. Metallic black paintwork, tubular side steps, new five-spoke ‘diamond-turned’ alloys and clear-lens lights brighten up the exterior.

The firm has also given...

The firm has also given its FR variants steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters which, combined with the DSG box, deliver quicker gearchanges.

The four-year survey...

The four-year survey will plot every pipe, cable, drain and sewer in the UK, and make the information available for contractors on hand-held computers. Four million holes are dug in the roads each year, but many are unnecessary as there are no reliable plans showing utilities buried since Victorian days. The annual digging bill of чЈ1billion rises to чЈ5bn when the cost of congestion is included.

The future face of Formula...

The future face of Formula One moved a step closer to being decided in the US – but it doesn’t go far enough, according to Renault boss Flavio Briatore.

The latest figures from...

The latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), for the first half of the year show Kia and Daewoo are on top in terms of fastest-growing sales.

The Lexus GS 450h combines...

The Lexus GS 450h combines a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with a mighty 197bhp electric motor, and enables the luxury saloon to power to 62mph in 5.9 seconds, and onto to 155mph at the top end. If it wasn"t for a combined economy figures of 35.8mpg, and emissions of 186g/km you"d think that Lexus had completely missed the point of hybrids all together.

The model has been designed...

The model has been designed for the Brazilian market, but recent statements from blue oval bosses that all cars will have a "global look" suggest this is how the next version of the UK"s favourite supermini might shape up.

The new Astra is almost...

The new Astra is almost here! VauxhallтЂ™s stunning newcomer makes its official debut this Wednesday, but the game has almost been given away with this revealing teaser image.

The newcomer is expected...

The newcomer is expected to be capable off-road - thanks to low-range gears and a selectable four-wheel-drive system - as well as refined on it. It will have seven seats and feature a Range Rover-style split-opening tailgate.

The next-generation...

The next-generation M3 is the first V8-engined 3-Series, and offers 400bhp - so expect it to race from 0-60mph in a fraction over five seconds, and go on to a limited top speed of 155mph.

The number of accidents...

The number of accidents attended by cops between 18 December last year and 2 January 2005 where drivers tested positive was down. But it was only 0.16 per cent less than in the 2004 festive season - despite a high-profile ad campaign throughout the celebrations.

The outgoing Pilot Primacy...

The outgoing Pilot Primacy also performed better than other makes, but Michelin claims the gap has grown as competitors sacrifice mileage for greater grip in the wet.

The Peugeot 206 CC rival...

The Peugeot 206 CC rival is inspired by the firm"s CZ2 concept, which wowed the crowds at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show. The production car will debut at 2005"s Swiss event in March.

There"s a new rival...

There"s a new rival to the London black cab! Mercedes has teamed up with a fresh distributor to produce a taxi based on its Vito van.

These are the first...

These are the first official pictures of the sporting newcomer, which makes its world debut in Switzerland alongside the acclaimed Kabura coupé concept. Following the recently launched 6MPS, with which it shares its 2.3-litre turbocharged engine, the front-wheel-drive 240bhp machine is expected to be the most powerful performance family car on the market when it goes on sale later this year. It also heralds the arrival of a facelifted Mazda 3 range, due this summer.

The striking Mesa concept...

The striking Mesa concept is built on the platform of the next-generation Sorento, due late next year, and features a powerful V8 engine. It"s the work of Kia"s California-based design studio. Company vice president Yong-Hwan Kim said: "The Mesa exemplifies the future of the SUV market and is a glimpse of the dynamic designs to come from us."

The TDV8 is the highlight...

The TDV8 is the highlight in a range of revisions to the brand"s off-road flagship. The diesel model slashes the car"s 0-60mph sprint time to 8.4 seconds - more than four seconds quicker than the outgoing TDV6 - yet offers the same 25.1mpg fuel economy.

The Tesco Car Insurance...

The Tesco Car Insurance Checkout, a quarterly survey of 33 different insurers, showed that drivers in London pay an average annual premium for comprehensive cover of чЈ563, and in the North West чЈ542, compared to the cheapest average, in East Anglia of just чЈ329. The national average is чЈ442.

The use of clear panels...

The use of clear panels even extends to the floorpan - meaning the view below your feet could be as exciting as the road ahead.

The Volvo S60, only...

The Volvo S60, only previously seen in concept form has been snapped (but only just) on a road in England.

This leaked picture...

This leaked picture shows the Nismo 370Z тЂ“ an even hotter version of the new sports car. ItтЂ™s powered by the same 3.7-litre V6 as found in the Infiniti G37 coupé, and features a sporty bodykit and rear spoiler to improve aerodynamics. However, the revisions arenтЂ™t simply skin deep. Nismo is NissanтЂ™s official tuning arm, so there will be plenty of changes under the surface, too. The rear-wheel-drive model should get more power, with the 0-60mph sprint time slashed to around five seconds, while lowered and stiffened suspension sharpens the handling.

Thousands of convictions...

Thousands of convictions across Britain could be unsafe after police officers using the ProLaser III accused James MacGregor, 34, from Inverness, of doing 132mph in a 70mph zone. Mechanical inspection of his Subaru Impreza WRX later found it was incapable of exceeding 107mph. A dangerous driving charge was thrown out of court.

To mark the 50th anniversary...

To mark the 50th anniversary of the HiQ British Touring Car Championship, Auto Express is backing the sporting spectacular for the fifth consecutive season. An epic 2007 series drew more than 300,000 live spectators, as the 10-round championship went right down to the wire.

Two styles of hood are...

Two styles of hood are available and both are supplied complete with the frame or as a canvas-only option. "Classic" hoods are made to the same design as the original factory-fitted MG Rover hoods, while the "Sportster" is a new design commissioned by XPart, which uses fewer

Unlike with vehicle...

Unlike with vehicle callbacks, Porsche has no way of contacting bike owners - which is why it has turned to Britain"s top-selling weekly car magazine for help.

We weren’t supposed...

We weren’t supposed to see it until Friday, but pictures of Vauxhall’s top secret new Insignia have leaked!

While the finishing...

While the finishing touches are being added to BentleyтЂ™s green giant, SEATтЂ™s eco car is already a sales hit!

With nine months to...

With nine months to go until the all-new Fiat 500 makes its debut, this exclusive 2007 calendar must surely be the best way to count down the days to the launch of the cute city car.

With obvious Ford design...

With obvious Ford design cues around the bumper and grille, it"s a preview of the next-generation Escape 4x4. Officially, there are no plans to launch the car here in the UK in the next few years. But insiders claim it"s a possibility, although the model would have to be carefully positioned to avoid stealing sales from the Freelander - made by Ford-owned Land Rover.

Working on a car at...

Working on a car at night normally means holding a torch with one hand тЂ“ limiting what you can do under the bonnet. But not with the neat new Silva L4 head torch.

Yet another petrol price...

Yet another petrol price rise is on the cards – but here’s a small piece of plastic which could help save you money at the pumps!