Trucks

100,000,000: General...

100,000,000: General Motors has poured 0million (÷£49m) into its plant in South Africa to build Hummers - its largest-ever investment in the country.

100: This year marks...

100: This year marks the centenary of the first Lancia car being produced, although the anniversary is wasted on British drivers, as the Italian-made motors haven"t been on sale here for 13 years.

309,500: Price in pounds...

309,500: Price in pounds paid for an Aston Martin DB4GT at a marque-exclusive Bonhams auction back in 2003 - the highest figure a vehicle has achieved at such an event.

A car badge that signifies...

A car badge that signifies the driver is a member of one of the UK’s

Adding another model...

Adding another model to the growing convertible market, Audi has revealed its latest new drop-top. The Audi A3 Cabriolet goes on sale in the UK in the spring - and it will turn heads wherever it goes!

A four day police operation...

A four day police operation conducted in the Paddington recently caught 29 kerb crawlers and published details of their ages and where they had come from.

After losing a disc...

After losing a disc late last year containing data on three million learner drivers, more information has now been left unprotected.

Alcar-Wheelwright has...

Alcar-Wheelwright has added two new designs to its comprehensive range. First up is the Dotz Renegade. This tough-looking, 10-spoke rim comes in an Anthracite finish. It has a five-hole fitment, and is initially available only as an 18-inch wheel, with other sizes due later this year.

All rise for a very...

All rise for a very special Bugatti Veyron! This blue-themed Grand Sport drop-top is the latest limited version of the 987bhp supercar.

Alongside are the people...

Alongside are the people who helped to create it, including Tony Pasawatz the Vehicle Line Director.

American giant General...

American giant General Motors revealed .1billion (í‚á£576m) losses for first quarter of 2005. It is the company"s worst figures since 1992.

And because the ÷£200...

And because the ÷£200 optional extra technology has been fitted to the car"s glovebox - or the rear centre armrest in the Q7 - it"s out of sight from thieves. Sound comes through the car"s speakers and the driver decides what they hear via the Multi Media Interface (MMI) cabin control set-up.

And the Renaultsport...

And the Renaultsport 225 F1 Team special edition has performance to match its looks. The 2.0-litre turbocharged car, based on the recently facelifted Cup 225 model, covers 0-62mph in 6.3 seconds and goes on to a 147mph top speed.

And with the funky twin...

And with the funky twin rear doors and a roomy four-seat cabin, onlookers had plenty to see! In profile, the new model"s dimensions look shorter than they are because of the long doors. These open on elaborate hinges, but are likely to be replaced by a barn-style door arrangement on the final production model.

A new second-hand motor...

A new second-hand motor without the salesman – that’s the promise behind the latest initiative launched by Carsite.co.uk.

Aston Martin will pull...

Aston Martin will pull the wraps from an all new Lagonda at this year"s Geneva Motor Show, sources close to the company have revealed.

As with the first-generation...

As with the first-generation model, Lotus Engineering has helped with the newcomer"s development. The Norfolk firm, which is owned by Proton, has adjusted the suspension for a sporty driving experience and tweaked the 1.6-litre petrol engine.

AUSTRALIA: A Perth taxi...

AUSTRALIA: A Perth taxi driver, caught stealing 1,000 gallons of petrol from a yard, told police he needed it to visit his aged mother... who lived only three miles away.

Based on the new Fiat...

Based on the new Fiat Grande Punto, the drop-top supermini, which will appear at the Geneva Motor Show, has been created to maximise interior space. Even though the car uses a folding metal roof, its maker claims the cabin has enough room in the back to sit two adults in comfort.

Bugatti has launched...

Bugatti has launched a new range of branded perfumes. But, as with the firm"s stunning cars, the men"s fragrance comes at a price - £2,395 for the Prestige Edition!

But Fisker’s Tramonto...

But Fisker’s Tramonto isn’t rare enough for some buyers! That’s why the US coachbuilder revealed this incredible 700bhp version at the New York show – and it’s the firm’s fastest production car ever, with a 205mph top speed.

But what else can buyers...

But what else can buyers expect? Tantalisingly, the report also mentioned "the introduction of the next-generation Corsa and a new two-seater roadster in 2006".

Called the Combi, the...

Called the Combi, the MPV has two rows of removable seats, which should make it a hit with large families, as it can carry up to nine people. And each seat can be folded, tilted or removed completely, allowing owners to turn the Combi back into a van. Every chair is protected by curtain airbags, while the Combi is also available with twin sliding side doors, and there"s even a long-wheelbase version. The Expert is part of the joint venture which also produced the Citroen Dispatch and Fiat Scudo vans (Issue 936), and it"s likely that those two firms will launch similar people carriers when the Combi goes on sale in February.

Called the X-Bow (pronounced...

Called the X-Bow (pronounced crossbow), it has been created by Austrian motorcycle firm KTM for wind tunnel testing. And it corresponds in every detail with the final full-size car, which will be unveiled at next month"s Geneva Motor Show.

Called www.bidaprice.com...

Called www.bidaprice.com it puts customers in touch with more than 800 motor dealers across the country. After paying a í‚á£116 fee, the buyer inputs the model they are looking for - then garages bid the best price they can offer on that particular vehicle.

Caterham launches super...

Caterham launches super hot Seven for drivers who want even more go. The 210bhp Superlight R400 weighs only 525kg, has 0-60mph time of 3.8 seconds and costs ÷£29,495.

Dealer chain Stratstone...

Dealer chain Stratstone adding five new locations to increase number of Cadillac and Corvette sites to 19. Expansion timed to coincide with imminent arrival of RHD version of American giant"s BLS saloon.

Designed, engineered...

Designed, engineered and built in the UK, the Transit gets a modern face and car-like cabin. An imposing three-bar grille winged by huge headlights gives a modern feel, while inside the seats are more comfortable.

Determined to be taken...

Determined to be taken seriously in the world’s car market, Chinese firm Brilliance is ready to launch its Ford Focus challenger.

DIY car manual specialist...

DIY car manual specialist Haynes has launched the Build Your Own Internal Combustion Engine kit, which can be put together without getting your hands dirty. You don’t need power tools, oil or a garage to create your mechanical masterpiece – just a table and a rainy afternoon.

Don"t be fooled by the...

Don"t be fooled by the disguise – this previous-generation Focus is the latest mule for the scorching new Focus RS, due next spring for around ÷£25,000.

Drivers are getting...

Drivers are getting better at avoiding fines, but a new gadget could make it easier for councils to reject penalty appeals. The Response Master software from London-based Barbour Logic is designed to churn out standard letters to disgruntled drivers at twice the rate authorities can cope with now.

Every car maker wants...

Every car maker wants to see the sale of a new model get off to a flying start – but Fiat has taken it literally! In a stunt to drum up excitement about its hotly anticipated 500, the Italian firm is hijacking a London Eye capsule for the supermini’s public debut!

First revealed by Auto...

First revealed by Auto Express in issue 827, this model will break new ground for Jaguar, showcasing the firm"s new petrol/electric hybrid technology which will eventually spread across the range. Likely to be based on the platform of the all-new X-Type, the soft-roader will get a sleek yet muscular bodyshell and a raised ride height, as well as an all-wheel-drive system based on that of the next-generation Freelander. Land Rover"s SUV is due next year, but a Jaguar soft-roader is unlikely before 2009.

First revealed with...

First revealed with a striking yellow colour scheme at the Frankfurt expo last September, the show star has been back to the paint shop and will appear with this pearlescent white finish (image). While still badged as a concept, it is virtually showroom ready.

Following the discovery...

Following the discovery of leaked engine specs, Auto Express can reveal that the city car will be one of the first models to meet Euro V emissions regulations, even though the stricter limits won’t come into force until 2009.

Forgotten where you...

Forgotten where you put your car keys? These specs will help you find them! The Smart Goggle records everything the wearer sees, and also recognises objects – so it can show you where you last saw them. The glasses were developed by boffins at Tokyo University, and while this prototype is too large for practical use, scientists are working on miniaturising the electronics.

Forgot to tick the sunroof...

Forgot to tick the sunroof option on your new motor? If so, then this natty kit could solve your problems. For ÷£12.50, US company Decano is offering a stick-on substitute!

For the first time in...

For the first time in the history of the event, visitors will be able to park their vehicles under the display areas and get to the expo direct. The six-month project provides 1,600 bays.

FRANCE: Cops in Lille...

FRANCE: Cops in Lille raced to a smash to find the driver involved was only nine. The boy, along with his eight-year-old accomplice, was caught after crashing through a fence.

Franchised dealers have...

Franchised dealers have been offering seven-day test drives of the brand new SUV thanks to a 100-strong fleet of specially registered demonstration vehicles.

From the exterior the...

From the exterior the vehicle is virtually identical to the standard XJ bringing absolute discretion to owners. However appearances can be deceptive, as the new Armoured XJ Long Wheelbase is heavily armoured, featuring significant modifications like bullet-resistant laminated glazing, underbody protection, steel-armouring and run flat tyres.

GENERAL Motors has donated...

GENERAL Motors has donated ÷£1,400 to help a man restore 1968 Corvette stolen 37 years ago. New Yorker Alan Poster was recently reunited with now virtually wrecked Chevrolet.

Grant broke a 2005 record...

Grant broke a 2005 record of 69 donuts set by Dale Morrison, using his road-going Sagaris fitted with standard Yokohama tyres. He performed for the Guinness World Records TV show in Madrid, Spain. "I"m a bit dizzy now," he joked afterwards.

Happy birthday Daihatsu!...

Happy birthday Daihatsu! The Japanese firm is 100 years old, and to celebrate it is releasing limited-edition versions of the Sirion supermini and Terios small SUV. Badged Centenary, they are based on S-trimmed cars, but come with extra kit. The Sirion version (pictured) costs ?7,395 and gets silver paint, alloys, electric mirrors and a height-adjustable driver’s seat. The Terios Centenary is priced at ?12,695 and comes with a leather steering wheel, foglamps and roof rails. The anniversary models go on sale from September, and are limited to only 100 examples of each.

Having competed at junior...

Having competed at junior levels in the past, the team is now gearing up for its WRC debut later this year.

He admits it"s not an...

He admits it"s not an ideal way of finding the final tally. "The website contains most data for the company, but it needs completing," Keith said. "When MG Rover went into administration, information from the firm stopped - I couldn"t even get an answer about when or what was the last car built."

Here are the pictures...

Here are the pictures that prove Mercedes is working overtime. Our spies have snapped the next-generation CLS and SLK!

Here’s a blast...

Here’s a blast from the past! It looks like a classic Fifties British MG, but the TD2000 is brand new and made in Malaysia by TD Cars. The rear-wheel-drive model, which uses Toyota RAV4 running gear and can be serviced by the Japanese firm’s dealers, costs from ?24,000. And it’s exclusive, with only four UK importers. Among them is Barry Owen of Broadwater Classics in Silverstone, Northants. He said: “The response has already has been good. It’s the quality and looks of the car that really catch people’s interest.”

Here’s one kitchen...

Here’s one kitchen which will appeal to fast food fans – it’s been designed by Porsche. The performance brand has teamed up with Germany’s oldest furniture manufacturer, Poggenpohl, to produce this culinary masterpiece.

Here"s a Cayman with...

Here"s a Cayman with even more bite! Itò€™s the limited-edition S Sport model.

Here"s a smart idea...

Here"s a smart idea... the DVLA is to try out a new way of preventing motorists from illegally sitting learners’ tests. It’s planning a trial of ‘smart’ provisional driving licences.

HOLLAND: An estranged...

HOLLAND: An estranged mother and daughter from near Utrecht were reunited after they crashed their cars into each other and realised they were related.

How much are you worth?...

How much are you worth? Officially, it"s nearly ÷£1million. New Department for Transport (DfT) figures reveal motor÷­ists and their passengers are valued at ÷£980,389 each - the highest amount ever.

If rumours are to be...

If rumours are to be believed you"re looking at the new Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster... However our sources have revealed, that it"s an imposter!Ò 

If youò€™ve got Ò£220,000...

If youò€™ve got Ò£220,000 to spare, this Bentley Mulsanne could be yours for the taking.

If you want to give...

If you want to give your car’s engine a new lease of life, an induction kit is a good place to start. Also known as a performance air filter, it can increase power by up to 10bhp – and improve the fuel consumption.

In bike racing, riders...

In bike racing, riders slipstream to save energy (above). Now, researchers have proved the same happens with vehicles.

Insurancewide"s "motorwizard"...

Insurancewide"s "motorwizard" will target companies according to your personal profile, so, for example, younger users will be directed to companies who specialise in this sector of the market, females will be similarly directed and so on. By vetting the companies approached, it saves you time when choosing an insurance company and mean you are more likely to get the most suitable insurance policy for your needs.

IRELAND: Furious Dubliner...

IRELAND: Furious Dubliner Sean Brady complained to local police after a disgruntled tarmac layer spelled out a swear word in asphalt on his drive. The eight-foot obscenity had to be painted over.

Is this a contender...

Is this a contender for the ugliest car ever made? It"s the new SsangYong Rodius. The enormous MPV is a sight to behold with plastic body-mouldings, a reverse angle C-pillar and a towering ride height. Climb inside and the reason behind the design is clear - it seats 11! Under UK law that would make it a minibus, but in Korea the number of seats means buyers pay less tax. Powered by a 2.7-litre, 168bhp common-rail diesel engine, the vehicle"s bulk means it only manages 27mpg. SsangYong expects to sell 4,000 a month in its native market, but the UK importer told us there are no plans to bring it here. Perhaps that"s for the best...

Is this the ultimate...

Is this the ultimate toy? Porsche fans might think so. Designers from the sports car brand have been commissioned to pen a range of luxury yachts for Singapore-based boat maker Royal Falcon Fleet.

It features a range...

It features a range of clever ideas, including an inflatable rear seat and electric sliding doors. Powered by an economical 1.3-litre CDTi diesel engine, the Toyota Yaris rival can comfortably carry three adults and a child. But it can also be easily turned into a one-seat load-lugger by deflating the rear bench and concealing it in the floor, and folding the child seat into the back of the driver"s chair.

It is being billed as...

It is being billed as an affordable, high-performance entry-level coup탩. Slotting in below the 350Z, this pocket rocket could revive the 240Z badge, which has not been seen since production of the original model ceased in 1974.

It looks as if Skoda...

It looks as if Skoda is about to go exploring again. This is the Fabia Scout – a rugged version of the new Estate. As with the Octavia and Roomster Scout variants, it has protective body mouldings and a raised ride height. To that it adds a handy, fold-out rear ledge and a system of luggage straps in the boot. With more room than a Volvo V50 and chunky looks, it should prove popular when it goes on sale next year, priced from around ÷£12,000. A facelifted Octavia will also arrive in 2008.

It’s a heady mix...

It’s a heady mix of stylish metal from the Turin car marque and neat touches from motorbike firm Ducati.

It’s the world’s...

It’s the world’s first zero-emissions Hummer! The catch? It’s only three metres long, has no fixed roof and is designed for fairways, not highways. The Mini Hummer H3 is becoming the must-have golf buggy among well heeled players around the world.

It"s lighter and more...

It"s lighter and more powerful than before ò€“ and Nissanò€™s latest Z-car is cheaper than predicted, too. The firm has revealed the new 370Z coupé will start at Ò£26,895 ò€“ thatò€™s Ò£2,000 lower than previously thought. As well as weighing 32kg less than the outgoing 350Z, itò€™s wider and shorter.

It"s not due to be launched...

It"s not due to be launched until next months New York Motor Show, but these official leaked images give a clear look at what we can expect from Honda"s BMW X6 rival.

Itò€™s all change for...

Itò€™s all change for fired-up Audi! Fresh engines have been added to the A4 (above) and A5 ranges.

It was a case of misery...

It was a case of misery to millionaire for two pensioners, after they sold their classic car collection following a spate of thefts from their museum. The Sharpe brothers of Rayleigh, Essex - both in their 70s - have bought rare vehicles since the Fifties. But they contacted Christie"s auction house after several of their 200-strong collection were stolen. Among the rarities sold was a 1914 fire engine, a 90-year-old bus and a 1902 Ford. This was valued at í‚á£15,000, but fetched í‚á£140,000! In all, the sale netted the pensioners a cool í‚á£3million.

John Cleese"s dulcet...

John Cleese"s dulcet tones are to be offered on Tom Tom units. Drivers pay í‚á£9.95 to download software from the firm"s website and have the ex-Monty Python star - who also played hotelier Basil Fawlty in Fawlty Towers - tell them when and where to turn and at which exit to leave the roundabout. It"s the first time a celebrity has given his voice for providing directions.

Lady Penelope"s outrageous...

Lady Penelope"s outrageous pink six-wheeler will be there, and public days will see acrobatics displays. As we revealed in issue 785, the movie, based on Gerry Anderson"s Sixties TV series, will be released this summer. A source told us: "Ford is talking to Universal Studios about marketing opportunities, including the Motor Show." Meanwhile, event organisers have confirmed the live-action arena will be called Motropolis, and is to feature a theatrical motoring event set in a futuristic city.

Last week (Issue 1,031)...

Last week (Issue 1,031), Auto Express brought you the first official teaser shot of the new Porsche Panamera. But now, we have the best look yet at the front-engined saloon ò€“ and itò€™s come from an unlikely source!

Less is more when it...

Less is more when it comes to paintwork – at least that’s according to Citroen! The firm’s C-Cactus show car features unpainted doors among its raft of clever cost-cutting measures. The bare metal is lacquered to protect it against the elements, saving the cost of buying and applying traditional paint. A spokesman for the French company said the feature could be used on future production cars. And he added that if a model based on the C-Cactus went into production, it would cost around ÷£12,000, because the hybrid diesel/electric powertrain is expensive to produce. But a budget version with a conventional engine may also be offered for around half the price.

Lewis Hamilton will...

Lewis Hamilton will have to wait a little longer to make his grand prix debut, after McLaren confirmed Pedro de la Rosa would line up alongside Kimi Raikkonen this weekend in Brazil. There had been hopes that the promising young Brit would be given his chance in South America, but McLaren is in no hurry to rush its rookie star into the big time. To date, Hamilton has completed only four days of testing behind the wheel of an F1 car. And although he lapped faster than everybody other than Michael Schumacher at Jerez in Spain last week, the team has opted for the proven de la Rosa.

Mazda: save í‚á£1,190...

Mazda: save í‚á£1,190 on S versions of 2 supermini until 31 December, plus í‚á£1,000 on 3 Sakata. TS variants of 5 MPV have free

Mirrors which help lorry...

Mirrors which help lorry drivers spot cyclists are set to be put up at junctions around London. The capitalò€™s mayor, Boris Johnson, has called for ò€˜Trixiò€™ mirrors to be installed across the city after it was revealed that the majority of cyclist deaths involve lorries turning left at traffic lights.

Mitsubishi Motors UK...

Mitsubishi Motors UK has unveiled the final edition of the current generation Lancer Evolution supercar. Just one version of the new Evolution IX MR (‘Mitsubishi Racing’) will be available, powered by a 366bhp version of Mitsubishi’s 2.0-litre turbo engine. Claimed performance is 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 157mph.

Motorway service giant...

Motorway service giant Moto is investing ÷£30million to bring newsagent WH Smith to its sites alongside the established Marks & Spencer Simply Food stores.

Now, council chiefs...

Now, council chiefs are to launch an experiment to see if leaving them turned off for six months really does work. The controversial move comes despite a report from the authority"s senior traffic engineer, who was opposed to scrapping the signals on safety grounds.

One thing the Focus...

One thing the Focus RS has never lacked is power! But that hasn"t stopped Ford RS specialists Graham Goode Racing from squeezing an extra 40bhp from the 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine, taking the tally to an incredible 340bhp sent through the front wheels.

Our images prove the...

Our images prove the Maybach Exelero has now hit the road. It was spied in Dusseldorf on a photoshoot ahead of the recent Essen Motor Show in Germany, and witnesses said the wild looks were matched by a fearsome sound from its 700bhp 5.9-litre V12.

Parking firm NCP, which...

Parking firm NCP, which employs wardens in Islington, north London, has claimed the metre-high doll is a symbol of victimisation of its employees. "It might be a bit of fun to some people, but others can easily be offended," said a spokesman.

Peter Stevens is the...

Peter Stevens is the man who pens all new MG Rovers, but he"s also visiting professor of automotive design at London"s prestigious Royal College of Art. He said: "I expect to see a major change in Porsche styling under the new boss. When a new man comes in, he wants to make it apparent where the old design work stopped and his started."

Production in the UK...

Production in the UK would centre around a range of five MG sports cars, and Nanjing has pledged to manufacture 80,000 units annually here within five years. It has said this would create 2,000 jobs in the Midlands.

Researchers also found...

Researchers also found that nearly 60 per cent of the 1,000 road users questioned confessed to taking the wheel when "very tired". Men were the worst culprits, with two-thirds owning up to driving with fatigue hanging over them.

Roadside adverts which...

Roadside adverts which show a message featuring the name of the car"s driver have been launched by the innovative manufacturer.

Rolls-Royce thinks its...

Rolls-Royce thinks its new Phantom Drophead Coupé could be the most expensive new car ever sold in the US, after one was bought for million (÷£1.01million) at a charity auction in Florida.

Scientists at Rome University...

Scientists at Rome University have been leading the ÷£2million project for more than two years, but Bertone’s sketches for the driver’s seat show that something extraordinary is being plan÷­ned by the Swedish manufacturer.

Silver might well be...

Silver might well be the most popular car colour now, but experts predict black will be back.

Skoda Motorsport will...

Skoda Motorsport will choose one lucky winner to ride in the Fabia WRC through the shakedown stage on Thursday, 16 September. You"ll be driven through the stage by one of the Skoda World Rally Team"s drivers - Toni Gardemeister, Armin Schwarz or newcomer Jani Paasonen.

SOFTWARE to cure Electronic...

SOFTWARE to cure Electronic Throttle Module faults on selected Volvo models will be available next month. The problem can cause sudden loss of power in petrol-engined V70, C70, S60, S70, S80 and XC70. Upgrade"s free from dealers.

South Africa: Police...

South Africa: Police in Johannesburg couldn"t catch the team behind a spate of lorry thefts, so transport bosses called in a witch doctor. He pinned dolls to the cabs - and the crime spree stopped immediately.

Spyker’s F1 future...

Spyker’s F1 future is not at risk despite the financial woes of its road car manufacturer owner. But the Dutch sports car maker has confirmed that it is looking to sell some or all of its F1 operation to raise additional funds for its ailing business.

Subaru bosses have given...

Subaru bosses have given the cute R1e concept the green light for production. The company is famous for its turbocharged rally cars, but the electric only R1e has been under development for years and originally appeared in 2003.

That’s the question...

That’s the question currently being asked by the Transport Research Laboratory.

The 150bhp 1.6-litre...

The 150bhp 1.6-litre petrol model goes on sale here in the summer. But, according to Derrick Kuzak, European vice president of product development, an ST TDCi is on the way. "If you look at our rivals, a diesel performance Fiesta is a logical progression," he said.

The 422 is designed...

The 422 is designed to drastically cut the moisture that builds up in garages and workshops during wet weather, and can remove up to 21 litres a day. Water is collected in the integral container, or it can be piped outside. An auto defrost facility ensures the 422 does not ice up, and a two-speed fan speeds up moisture collection.

The A4 isnò€™t the only...

The A4 isnò€™t the only Audi range thatò€™s set to expand ò€“ as these grainy spy shots prove. This is the A5 Cabriolet, which will signal the end for the current A4 drop-top when it makes its world debut on the stands at the Paris Motor Show next month.

The American giant has...

The American giant has teamed up with legendary motorbike builder Harley Davidson to create this special-edition pick-up. Based on the multi-million selling F-150, it packs a potent 450bhp supercharged 5.4-litre V8 from the Saleen supercar. It also features 22-inch alloy wheels and several Harley badges.

The Barabus TKR uses...

The Barabus TKR uses a mid-mounted 7.0-litre twin-turbo V8 to produce 1,005bhp - that"s more than a Bugatti Veyron! Hand-built in Manchester, the TKR is said to be capable of 0-60mph in "less than two seconds" and have a top speed of 270mph.

The British Grand Prix...

The British Grand Prix has seen a huge surge in ticket sales, thanks to Lewis Hamilton and Anthony Davidson joining F1. Silverstone says two grandstands have sold out and a further rush in January for early booking discounts is likely.

The company specialises...

The company specialises in 24-carat gold plating, so you’ll be able to touch up your alloy wheels, badges, grille, bumpers or interior trim – and you can be as subtle or extravagant as you wish.

The Delta is back! A...

The Delta is back! A performance legend is set to return - and Auto Express is first to break the news. An official document from within Fiat confirms that subsidiary Lancia will build a new Ford Focus-sized model in 2007. This will be the successor to the famous Delta, axed in 1999, and leaked engine details reveal plans for a hot Integrale version. Said to be powered by a 2.2-litre turbo, the flagship will have 260bhp and 4WD. Sharing underpinnings with Fiat"s new Stilo - due next year - the Integrale promises to put Lancia back on the sports car map.

The eagerly anticipated...

The eagerly anticipated Toyota Corolla replacement, the Auris, has gone on sale - in Japan.

The Esprit was axed...

The Esprit was axed last year, and the popular Elise two-seater now takes up all the UK factory"s capacity. A Lotus spokesman said: "Production of the new Esprit will begin in 2007, but the Hethel site simply isn"t big enough to cope. We believe people would rather see us spend money on product development than increasing existing facility capacity." However, the future of the plant has been guaranteed for at least the next 10 years, with production of the Elise likely to remain in the UK.

The firm is testing...

The firm is testing a project called SmartWeb, which allows drivers to ask any question and get an answer in seconds. It"s voice-activated, so responses arrive within moments. The system works by sending the questions wirelessly to a dedicated computer which scours its Internet database and sends the response as synthesised speech. A prototype was unveiled at the CeBIT electronics show in Hanover, Germany last week. "The driver can simply retrieve the information from the device on demand," said Siemens scientist Friedrich Schön.

The first five examples...

The first five examples of Rolls-Royce’s Drophead Coupé have been delivered to their lucky owners – and Auto Express has been for an exclusive ride in one of them. However, the car we tried wasn’t sold through one of the firm’s six franchised outlets!

The flagship was supposed...

The flagship was supposed to debut at the British Motor Show in July - because as with the standard car (below), the newcomer will be built in the UK. But bosses have pulled this launch date forward to March"s Geneva Motor Show.

The Ford ace took maximum...

The Ford ace took maximum advantage when arch-rival Sebastien Loeb made a rare mistake. The triple world champion seemed on target for his fourth consecutive victory, but spun and irreparably damaged his Citroen while holding a comfortable lead on the final morning. “Fortunately we had our luck when Seb crashed,” said the 39-year-old Finn. “I kept the pressure on him, and it’s nice to see he doesn’t drive like a machine all the time! It’s good to be leading the championship again.”

The former unveiled...

The former unveiled the technology first - on its Q7 SUV - while the latter said that it would put a unit into the Cayenne in the future. Audi"s hybrid layout uses the firm"s 350bhp 4.2-litre V8 engine mated to an electric motor, which boosts torque by 200Nm to 640Nm in total.

The future of Smart...

The future of Smart has been thrown into doubt by the boss of parent company DaimlerChrysler. "We are known for unpopular decisions," Jíƒá¼rgen Schrempp (image) told analysts at a meeting about the range"s poor performance. However, a spokeswoman for Smart was unaware of the reports. "We have no further news about what the plans are to take the company forward in the future. This is all just speculation," she said. The slow-selling ForFour has failed to strengthen the brand, which could make losses of í‚á£400million this year, according to industry experts.

The gadget is the brainchild...

The gadget is the brainchild of Barbara May and James Shippen, who recently drove from John O"Groats to southern Italy without getting out of their MPV to prove the Indipod"s worth! James, from Bromsgrove, Worcs, explained: "A fan fills a nylon cover with air to provide privacy. It works in most vehicles - you simply plug it into the cigarette lighter."

The Golf GTI is getting...

The Golf GTI is getting even faster - and you"ll have to be quick to get one! To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the hot hatch legend, VW is set to introduce the limited-edition Golf GTI Edition 30.

The GTO isn’t...

The GTO isn’t the only Italian supercar to get a makeover – Lambor÷­ghini’s Gallardo has also been reworked. The Embolado Superleggera is inspired by the smallest Lambo, but features more aggressive styling and shorter bodywork to trim weight. Its minimal overhangs and flat surfaces show how a Gallardo successor could look.

The hi-tech kit puts...

The hi-tech kit puts security back into the hands - literally - of the car"s owner. Unless the gadget scans a finger which matches a print in its memory, the engine won"t start.

The idea is that the...

The idea is that the technology would be used to monitor flows and tell drivers of problems - so they could then choose alternative routes.

The latest figures reveal...

The latest figures reveal that they fetched higher prices at auction last year than in 2005.

THE long-running threat...

THE long-running threat of a breakaway grand prix championship is over, after the car makers competing in F1 signed a new, five-year deal with series supremo Bernie Ecclestone. This supersedes the existing Concorde Agreement that runs out at the end of 2007.

The long awaited "small"...

The long awaited "small" Rolls Royce has finally broken cover... This carefully cropped image - apparently taken from the official pictures released by Rolls Royce - has surfaced on the internet ahead of the car"s official unveiling at midnight tonight.

The LRX is not the only...

The LRX is not the only Range Rover gunning for exclusivity. This £140,000 model is a collaboration between bespoke gunmakers Holland and Holland and Range Rover tuners Overfinch.

The Luton firm notched...

The Luton firm notched up more than 33,000 registrations last month, making it June"s best seller. Most popular was the Astra, while the Zafira, Vectra and Corsa headed their respective classes.

The membership option...

The membership option for this summer is called Option 66, and provides AA European Breakdown Cover, a road atlas of Europe, and a sun visor sticker with advice on motoring in Germany, to help avoid picking up driving penalties.

The "Pidplates" are...

The "Pidplates" are injection-moulded and chrome-plated logos, made from the same materials as most car"s brand and model details. Motorists can choose any combination of letters and symbols up to 20 characters, to add a personal message, or advertise their company in a more stylish way than stuck-on plastic.

The plan, coming on...

The plan, coming on the back of a record sales year in 2006, should guarantee more new models from the Italian marque and continue its revitalisation under Audi.

The previous record...

The previous record was 85.3p in 2000, when drivers blockaded roads to protest at the soaring costs and government plans to raise taxes on fuel.

The price is for the...

The price is for the entry-level 120bhp 1.6-litre Sport model when it arrives next month.

There are seven engine...

There are seven engine variants in all, topped by the hot 2.0-litre blown unit. The 193bhp A200 Turbo covers 0-60mph in eight seconds, and carries on to 141mph. It will be joined by four-cylinder 1.5, 1.7 and 2.0-litre petrol units, as well as three 2.0-litre oil-burners.

Thereð€™s no chance...

Thereð€™s no chance of the Land Rover Defender getting a lukewarm reception when it enters the Chinese market for the first time with this pair of special editions!  

There"s even car accessory...

There"s even car accessory protection for items such as roof bars and bike racks. What"s more, if you take out a policy before 6 April, you"ll get a voucher worth ÷£50 to spend in store. As well as selling tools and consumables, the chain has also introduced its own breakdown recovery cover. It boasts a 35-minute recovery time, and there are four levels which can be bought, ranging in price from ÷£32.99 to ÷£89.99. A 10 per cent saving can be made if customers buy two lots of cover.

There were 522,000 black...

There were 522,000 black cars sold in 2006, which makes it Britain"s second favourite colour - in 2005 it was placed third. Silver is still number one, but the volume of models registered in this colour fell by 55,000 over the previous year to 671,000.

The supermini comes...

The supermini comes with stickers, metallic paint and 14-inch alloys, plus new interior trim, air-con, Bluetooth and split-folding rear seats. It’s based on the 1.2-litre Dynamic but, at ?7,195, works out ?400 cheaper.

The system is a panel...

The system is a panel of coloured LED lights sewn into a jacket. The bulbs flash, display words or even arrows to show which way the rider is turning.

The Team RAC BMW driver...

The Team RAC BMW driver (right) is stepping up to the FIA World series for an appearance at Brands Hatch, Kent, on 23 September.

The Tesco Value Car...

The Tesco Value Car Insurance is aimed at the 2.5 million drivers who currently rely on just 3rd party insurance, as well as those with low-value cars, and comes up 12% cheaper than the existing Tesco comprehensive policy.

The three-time series...

The three-time series winner has given Citroen’s latest C4 four victories since its debut in Monte Carlo. But crashes in Norway and Sardinia have cost him dearly.

The Type S bag has pockets...

The Type S bag has pockets and space for just about everything from tow ropes to top-up packs, plus a central divider to stop de-icers or tools sliding around. There"s even a handy side pocket, which is ideal for maps. When empty, the product simply folds flat to maximise storage space.

The usually conservatively...

The usually conservatively styled Chrysler Sebring saloon caught showgoers" eyes on the firm"s Detroit expo stand with this sporty version. And the good news is it could be coming to the UK!

The wraps are slowly...

The wraps are slowly coming off Rolls-Royce"s new luxury car! The company has confirmed more details about the production version of the 200EX concept, which was recently revealed at the Geneva Motor Show.

They"re spy shots, but...

They"re spy shots, but not as we know them!

This gadget (pictured)...

This gadget (pictured) could help motorists avoid fines – by automatically paying tolls!

This is the Christmas...

This is the Christmas Hummer H2 from Geiger Cars, decked out in fiery red paint with an airbrushed winter scene along the side.

This is the QQ6, the...

This is the QQ6, the latest supermini from Chinese manufacturer Chery Auto, and it"s due to arrive in showrooms in August. Developed under the codename S21, the little runaround will initially only be sold in China for 42,500 Yuan - the equivalent of ÷£2,900!

This new hi-tech G-Wiz...

This new hi-tech G-Wiz has nearly twice the range of the original electric city car ò€“ and costs nearly double the price!

This pair of hot new...

This pair of hot new Mazdas will put rotary engine fans in a spin. The car above is the 450bhp Furai, which hints that the Japanese firm could be considering producing a supercar. The prototype is based on an American Le Mans Series machine and, according to Mazda, blurs the line between trackday models and road-legal supercars. It will be unveiled at next month’s Detroit Motor Show.

Top of the bill was...

Top of the bill was the XC90 V8, which was sporting striking yellow paint instead of its previous red finish. The V8 Power Utility Vehicle produces 650bhp from its 4.4-litre supercharged unit.

Toyota has opened up...

Toyota has opened up on the iQ! The Japanese firm will reveal two new special editions of its city car at next weekò€™s Frankfurt Motor Show ò€“ the iQ for Sports and the iQ Collection.

Transport Minister Alastair...

Transport Minister Alastair Darling had claimed that the speed cameras erected in the last three years under the "Cash for Cameras" scheme have saved 100 lives a year. But his own department figures released later revealed that 100 more people were killed on Britain"s roads than in 2000 - the year before the netting off scheme started.

Under the bonnet, the...

Under the bonnet, the car has the same 1.6-litre diesel as in the other two variants. But engineers have dropped power by 8bhp to 110bhp, in favour of more miserly economy and lower emissions. Citroen believes this could appeal to business users and high-mileage private owners.

Under the new Waste...

Under the new Waste Incineration Directive - to be implemented on 28th December 2005 - companies that incinerate waste oils such as, power stations and road stone coaters, must meet strict new environmental regulations. As a result, the price of disposal is expected to increase.

USA: A Florida thief...

USA: A Florida thief stole a metal box from a car believing it contained cash, and blew it up. It actually held 11 pounds of gun-powder, and destroyed his house.

USA: Drivers in Los...

USA: Drivers in Los Angeles can now tune in while filling up. Gas Station TV has been launched, with a petrol pump screen showing 24-hour news.

USA: Night-clubbers...

USA: Night-clubbers are holding an Oscar-style Pimp of the Year awards in Los Angeles. The winners are the men with the flashiest cars and best-looking women.

What do you buy if Cadillac"s...

What do you buy if Cadillac"s STS isn"t big enough? How about this SLS? Based on the US brand"s sporty BMW 5-Series rival, the limo is 100mm longer than standard, featuring more rear legroom

When the model arrives...

When the model arrives in June, the base FQ-300 will cost í‚á£27,999, with the FQ-320 and 340 priced at í‚á£29,999 and í‚á£32,999 respectively. Styling changes include revamped bumpers front and back, plus fresh Enkei alloys. Air-con and four airbags remain standard. Variable valve timing will give the IX improved refinement, economy and performance.

With a bright canopy...

With a bright canopy and matching tyres, it is the handiwork of Paris fashion house Maison de Courreges - famous for inventing the mini skirt in the Sixties and using electric vehicles in its shows. It claims the car"s success is down to its lithium polymer batteries, which are lighter, quicker to charge and less likely to overheat than standard cells.

With a more car-like...

With a more car-like profile than the current model, it will still seat five, not seven. However, buyers can expect a more flexible cabin. While the outgoing model only has a 60/40 split-folding rear bench, the newcomer is set to feature seats which drop flat into the floor, to put it on a par with class rivals.

You"ll have to form...

You"ll have to form an orderly cue for this cult Volkswagen! It’s a full-size pool table which uses a Sixties camper as its base. The shortened and narrowed car has had all of its mechanicals removed, while lifting the engine cover reveals storage for the balls.