Autotuning

Autotuning

A collaboration with...

A collaboration with the Internet firm has led to a special link on the popular mapping site which transfers the location of any point of interest directly to a TomTom navigation unit. And best of all, it’s totally free!

A driver was fined чЈ60...

A driver was fined чЈ60 and given three points on his licence after the Highways Agency employees complained about his driving to the police. It"s the second time in a month someone has ended up in court after being reported by Traffic Officers.

A famous Brit is back...

A famous Brit is back from the dead! Auto Express can exclusively reveal that the MG TF LE500 тЂ“ a special-edition run of 500 for the UK тЂ“ will cost ТЈ16,399 each. And that undercuts the equivalent previous-generation TF by nearly ТЈ700 тЂ“ but itтЂ™s still more expensive than a basic Mazda MX-5 by the same margin.

And as part of the preparations...

And as part of the preparations, the 450bhp V6-engined, four-wheel-drive machine is aiming to make a series of record-breaking runs at the legendary Nürburgring circuit in Germany. It was heading there when our spies saw the car - and snapped this first picture of the interior.

And while rumours of...

And while rumours of a 480bhp replacement have been circulating for more than a year, these pictures are the proof the project is finally underway. Known only as the F1 Commemoration Car in Japan, the two-door prototype seen here is powered by a mighty front-engined 5.0-litre V8, which will also be used in future Lexus models.

A new EU directive could...

A new EU directive could see drivers caught speeding on the Continent have the penalty points added to their licence, according to the AA Motoring Trust. Head of road safety Andrew Howard said: “Penalties currently stay in each country, but the new plan, which will start with the Irish border, will see points gained in another country put on to a driver’s record.”

AppleтЂ™s iPhone has...

AppleтЂ™s iPhone has made such an impact, itтЂ™s no surprise that other products тЂ“ like sat-navs тЂ“ are copying its multi-touch interface. In Issue 1,044, we tried NavmanтЂ™s iPhone-inspired S100. And now, the companyтЂ™s higher-spec S300T has arrived.

As car makers increasingly...

As car makers increasingly recommend specific lubricant blends for their vehicles, Halfords has expanded its range of own-brand products to match more requirements. The chain store, which already offers a part-synthetic fluid for FordтЂ™s Zetec engine, has added three more products tailored to satisfy the demands of particular manufacturers.

As things get under...

As things get under way at the Detroit Motor Show, Mercedes has just announced the release of two special edition cars that won"t be on the show-floor in America.

Aston Martin suffered...

Aston Martin suffered last-minute heartbreak in its bid to win the GT1 class at Le Mans. The fast but fragile DBR9 led bitter US rival Corvette from the seventh hour. Then with less than three hours to the chequered flag, it needed to have its clutch changed.

As you can see, the...

As you can see, the marque has made light work of its second-generation off-roader. The 911-style narrowed headlights don"t only get a new look, but on the Turbo model they also automatically adjust depending on input from the steering. Revamped front air intakes across the range have been added as well, to improve cooling and engine performance.

Auto Express has discovered...

Auto Express has discovered that when the two-seater Mazda appears at the Geneva Motor Show next March, it will boast a manually operated soft-top, as featured on the current car. That version will go on sale late next year, but a second model - a metal-roofed coupнѓ©-cabriolet - will appear a year later. In profile, there will be no visual difference between the pair of roadsters.

A whole new dimension...

A whole new dimension of sat-nav technology is on the way тЂ“ with the development of hi-tech 3D screens!Т

Based on a lengthened...

Based on a lengthened version of the next-generation Rio platform, the new motor will be aimed at buyers looking for a budget performance car. It will spearhead Kia"s move to be recognised as a sporty marque - something it started when it unveiled the KCV III concept at last year"s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Based on the Coupнѓ©...

Based on the Coupнѓ© platform, but with significantly modified suspension and an increased ride height, the Tucson uses a "torque-on-demand" 4x4 system - meaning it is primarily front drive, but the rear wheels kick in if the system detects a loss of traction. It will also have an off-road mode, where drivers can engage permanent four-wheel drive at up to 20mph.

Based on the Ford Focus-rivalling...

Based on the Ford Focus-rivalling 308 hatchback, which goes on sale here in September, the new model would be a smaller brother to the recently launched 4007.

Blend Seventies style...

Blend Seventies style and modern reliability as you beat the jams on one of VespaтЂ™s new S scooters. They pay homage to the brandтЂ™s classic products, but are designed to withstand the rigours of modern motoring.

Boris Johnson is bringing...

Boris Johnson is bringing power to the people! LondonтЂ™s Mayor has promised to set up 25,000 charging points for electric vehicles by 2015.

Both are filled with...

Both are filled with xenon gas, which burns more efficiently (and whiter) than Halogen bulbs of the past, contributing to an increased beam range without the need to uprate the bulb wattage. PowerPlus offers 50 per cent more light and is available in H1, H4 and H7 fitments. PowerBlue delivers up to 30 per cent more light than a standard bulb whilst also giving a stylish blue tint similar to that found with the HID "Xenon" system. Also available in H1, H4 and H7. To celebrate the launch, the company"s offering a "buy one get one free deal", so two cars can be upgraded for the price of one. Shipment is free and the company"s bundling in a free pair of Philips Ultra Blue sidelight bubs, which retail at чЈ9.95 and fit 99 per cent of cars.

Britain faces a 20mph...

Britain faces a 20mph city centre speed limit blitz if the recommendations of a new report are adopted - and one council is already planning to use hi-tech cameras, instead of speed humps, to enforce the restrictions.According to research carried out by the Stockholm Environment Institute for the Department of Transport (DfT), a 20mph urban limit and tougher sen-tencing for dangerous drivers are the best ways to reduce road deaths.

British manufacturer...

British manufacturer Morgan is traditionally associated with sports cars featuring wooden framed bodywork. So you wouldn’t expect it to have produced this hydrogen-powered machine.

But now, the end of...

But now, the end of the road for the problem could be in sight after Navteq, the firm which supplies routing information to the majority of sat-nav devices, said it is going to make its UK database more extensive.

Called the F600 Testarossa...

Called the F600 Testarossa, the model will be the first Ferrari to wear the badge since the flat-12-engined 512TR. The name Testarossa means red head, and refers to the fact that the cars bearing the title have all had the top of their engines painted "rossa".

Called the Sport Package...

Called the Sport Package, itтЂ™s a set of aftermarket styling enhancements and suspension tweaks designed to give the Korean makerтЂ™s new Ford Focus rival the hot hatch treatment.

Called Virtual Cable...

Called Virtual Cable, the latest kit projects a guiding line above the road in front of you. By using a special head-up display (HUD), the unit replaces the traditional arrows and graphics with a simple ‘cable’ which appears suspended in mid-air.

Caught out on its first...

Caught out on its first photoshoot in New York, the four-door saloon seen here is the production-ready version of the Fusion, a model for the US market, which will be officially unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January.

Child deaths on UK roads...

Child deaths on UK roads have risen by 20 per cent. The increase, from 141 children in 2005 to 169 last year, was revealed in the latest Government figures. Most vulnerable were young cyclists, among whom fatal accidents soared by 55 per cent, to 31. There was also a 13 per cent rise in deaths of adolescent pedestrians, to 71.

Clean and green was...

Clean and green was the key phrase at FiatтЂ™s Paris stand.

Colour screens built...

Colour screens built into petrol dispensers in the US will allow customers to look up local points of interest and get directions via a live Internet connection. And the devices not only display maps and routes; they even provide print-outs.

Completely new models...

Completely new models included Fiat"s Grande Punto, the Renault Clio, Toyota"s Yaris and the VW Fox. They were joined by revised versions of Ford"s Fiesta and Fusion, the Citroen C3 and Hyundai"s Getz. Together, the newcomers account for more than 60 per cent of the UK"s small car market.

Convertible fans wonтЂ™t...

Convertible fans wonтЂ™t be the only ones to get a Volvo treat at the Frankfurt Motor Show; the firm is set to debut a flagship performance version of its XC60 4x4, too.

Could this be the hottest...

Could this be the hottest supermini ever? Well, bearing the markings of the worldтЂ™s most famous Italian supercar maker should help!

Debt advisers at the...

Debt advisers at the UK Insolvency Helpline say they’ve had more than 10,000 calls in the past four months alone, from owners struggling to pay back money borrowed to buy their vehicle. That compares to 14,285 in the first nine months of 2007.

Delivering 500bhp, and...

Delivering 500bhp, and featuring an uprated chassis and slick-shifting six-speed semi-automatic gearbox, it’s set to take the fight to the BMW M5. However, with only subtle bodywork modifications, the cool new cat looks far more mild than wild.

Despite denying rumours...

Despite denying rumours that he is looking to join another team, Jenson Button has admitted he could quit F1 if his Honda outfit continues to struggle. To date, the beleaguered marque’s latest RA107 has earned only one point in nine races.

Despite widespread rumours...

Despite widespread rumours that the basic skeleton of the model shown here was a top-secret McLaren test car, the bare chassis is actually a technology mule for a group of University of Munich designers.

Due on sale in September...

Due on sale in September from ?11,750, entry-level versions of the Korean estate will have a 1.6-litre four-cylinder 113bhp engine.

Ecologically sound living...

Ecologically sound living is currently at the forefront of our minds, and Ecover hopes to extend that into car valeting with its new тЂgreenтЂ™ products.

Ever left your lights...

Ever left your lights on overnight and come out to a car that refuses to start the next morning? Now, thanks to Battery Brain, you can start the vehicle every time, no matter what equipment you forget to turn off.

Ever lost your mobile...

Ever lost your mobile phone when it’s slipped off the passenger seat, or been irritated by coins sliding around the console? Hang on to your gadgets and silence the cubbyhole clutter with this Premium Dashboard Mat, from Duck.

Extra kit available for new Impreza

Feast your eyes on the...

Feast your eyes on the next stunner from Renault! Hot on the heels of the new two-door Laguna, these are the first pictures of the Mégane Coupé.

FERNANDO Alonso may...

FERNANDO Alonso may be out of favour at McLaren, but he’s confident the team will provide him and team-mate Lewis Hamilton with an equal shot at the world championship. The Spaniard, who won both of his previous titles in Brazil, trails Hamilton by four points.

Fiat and Chrysler have...

Fiat and Chrysler have agreed to join forces thanks to a deal that could result in one of the largest car company alliances in the world, Auto Express can reveal.

First up is the Ampera...

First up is the Ampera тЂ“ an all-new concept designed to lead the British manufacturerтЂ™s charge into the electric car market. ItтЂ™s tipped to line up alongside the forthcoming flagship Insignia, the VXR, which we reveal for the first time in our spy shot.

Five hundred Skoda fans...

Five hundred Skoda fans are getting the chance to snap up a limited-edition version of the Octavia vRS тЂ“ and the best bit is the company will pay the VAT!

Following its starring...

Following its starring role in the latest 007 film, Casino Royale, the racy Mondeo driven by Daniel Craig is being made part of the blue oval"s new family car range.

Following the shock...

Following the shock news that the current 307 had the worst reliability of any model in this year"s Auto Express Driver Power survey (issue 902), its replacement can"t come soon enough. Throughout the car"s development, the emphasis will be firmly on quality and durability.

Ford has today announced...

Ford has today announced an approved Mountune performance upgrade for the Focus ST hatchback.

For those who find sat-nav...

For those who find sat-nav graphics hard to follow, the new N Drive G800 could be ideal. It uses satellite photos of the road to show exactly where you are.

For value for money...

For value for money, it’s hard to beat the new Citroen C5. The French firm has announced that prices will start at less than чЈ16,000.

Get a half-price family...

Get a half-price family model by buying privately a year-old example – that’s according to the latest depreciation study. The research was carried out by the City-CarClub, a pay-as-you-go rental scheme.

Government ministers...

Government ministers nearly trebled their parking fine bill last year тЂ“ leaving hard-pressed taxpayers to pick up the tab.

Green campaigners have...

Green campaigners have been predicting the death of the so-called "Chelsea tractor" following a recent dip in sales. But the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) says it"s mostly registrations of the UK"s two most popular off-roaders that have suffered in the last year - because they"re both being relaunched. A spokesman said: "Rumours of the demise of the 4x4 have been greatly exaggerated. There were 10,000 fewer sales over the last year, nearly 5,000 of which were for the outgoing Land Rover Freelander, which has not been made since July. The new model only went on sale last week.

Henrik Fisker, the design...

Henrik Fisker, the design chief responsible for Aston"s stunning DB9 and the forthcoming V8, is on the brink of becoming a supercar superstar in his own right with his new firm, Fisker Coachbuild. And these are the first official pictures of his new creation.

Here is the picture...

Here is the picture which shows that VauxhallтЂ™s new Meriva is a тЂglassтЂ™ act!

Here"s a Big Cat on...

Here"s a Big Cat on the prowl! This is Jaguar"s first-ever XF police pursuit vehicle and it"s currently being evaluated by forces across the country тЂ“ so watch out.

Here"s the proof that...

Here"s the proof that Ford is taking people carriers to the MAX! These are the first spy shots of the forthcoming new C-MAX, which will make its worldwide debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

HereтЂ™s ArgentinaтЂ™s...

HereтЂ™s ArgentinaтЂ™s answer to the Aston Martin DB9: the Denari Froilan. This front-engined GT was unveiled at the Buenos Aires Motor Show. In showroom spec it is likely to use a Chevrolet V8, which would need tuning to at least 500bhp to challenge the DB9.

Hi-tech seatbelts that...

Hi-tech seatbelts that protect motorists in pile-ups are set to make motorway driving safer.

Honda has announced...

Honda has announced a shift in it"s CR-V towards automatic diesels and a new, redesigned look.

Honda has released the...

Honda has released the first picture of the production version of the new Insight hybrid, which is billed as the most affordable car of its type.

If youтЂ™re looking...

If youтЂ™re looking for more performance from the facelifted Porsche 911, donтЂ™t worry тЂ“ the new GT3 is here!

"I"m very enthusiastic...

"I"m very enthusiastic about the potential of TVR," the new man revealed. "I"ve always been a fan of British car manufacturing, and believe the best automotive designers and engineers are in this country."

Initially, the CityRover...

Initially, the CityRover edged ahead when a dealer incentive slashed н‚бЈ1,496 off the list price to offer the supermini for н‚бЈ4,999. However, the lead was shortlived, as Perodua announced its revised Kelisa is now available from н‚бЈ4,824.

Insiders are looking...

Insiders are looking forward to the new arrival - the latest in a long and successful history of models. "We can"t wait for the new Corolla, which is very different from the existing model," said Paul Philpott, Toyota UK"s commercial chief.

Installing a hands-free...

Installing a hands-free phone kit in your carтЂ™s cockpit often adds another unwanted box to the gadget count. Yet this new unit combines two jobs in one.

It arrived in 1966...

It arrived in 1966, and the last of the 6,325 examples built rolled off the line in 1968.

It makes its debut at...

It makes its debut at the Los Angeles Motor Show this week, and Auto Express already has the inside line on NissanтЂ™s new Z-car.

It might be a name thatтЂ™s...

It might be a name thatтЂ™s new to the UK, but Infiniti is set to celebrate itтЂ™s 20th anniversary at this yearтЂ™s Geneva Motor Show with a very special concept car.

It’s the Japanese...

It’s the Japanese supercar that’s heading for pole position – the Nissan GT-R V-Spec! Our spies have captured more pictures of the hot newcomer as test drivers put it through its paces around the Nurburgring.

ItрЂ™s the Superb, Skoda...

ItрЂ™s the Superb, Skoda fans have been longing for. This is the first official teaser shot of the Superb estate and following on from last yearрЂ™s innovative hatch/saloon model, Skoda says the estate is the logical continuation of the Czech firms flagship model.

It"s the face of the...

It"s the face of the future from Mitsubishi!

It uses a new rear-wheel-drive...

It uses a new rear-wheel-drive platform which will underpin several large vehicles from GM. While the car, called the Torana, is unlikely to come here, it"s the biggest clue yet about the range-topper, due in 2006. A Vauxhall spokesman said: "Don"t read too much into the styling, but, yes, this is the new Omega."

It was hard to miss...

It was hard to miss Fiat"s star of the show - the 500. For a start, there was a hansel and grettle style trail of ladies, styled to within an inch of their lives and sporting white jumpsuits,, to show the way. I just followed these and was confronted with a giant version of the popular new supermini. To give you an idea of the scale...the model"s wheels disappeared to reveal real-life 500s inside, which visitors can ride through the supersized version and out towards the gobsmacked crowd.

Jaguar has unveiled...

Jaguar has unveiled the supercharged version of its lauded redesigned XK sports car.

JCB, renowned for its...

JCB, renowned for its yellow excavation equipment, amazed the world earlier this year with the Dieselmax oil-burning land speed record car. However, these official pictures of its new military-spec 6.7-litre High Mobility Utility Vehicle (HMUV) are the start of an even more amazing project at the firm, based in Uttoxeter, Staffs.

Larger than the outgoing...

Larger than the outgoing model, the next Punto has a pronounced front bumper and a steeply raked bonnet. These will help it to become one of the world"s first cars to meet the strict new pedestrian impact regulations that are due to come into force in 2005.

Last week (Issue 958)...

Last week (Issue 958), we showed you the car wearing a thin disguise during a break in filming at its advertising shoot. And in the current issue (959) we"ve caught it completely unclothed - and its 207-inspired lines are clear for all to see.

Little-known Paul di...

Little-known Paul di Resta leads the all-action DTM German touring car championship. The Scot, cousin of IndyCar star Dario Franchitti and current European Formula Three champ, finished second

Maserati has added even...

Maserati has added even more style to its Quattroporte. These pictures show designers have taken some tips from the GranTurismo coupé to give the saloon a mid-life facelift.

Mazda showed it"s dark...

Mazda showed it"s dark side at the 2009 LA Motor Show, with this high performance concept car, based on the Mazda 2...

Mazda"s latest rotary-engine...

Mazda"s latest rotary-engine sportscar is almost here - and our team of spies has caught a chassis mule heading out for a spin.

Meet the car that makes...

Meet the car that makes a Bugatti Veyron seem slow! ItтЂ™s called the GT9 тЂ“ and can claim to be one of the fastest roadgoing models ever made.

Michelin has broken...

Michelin has broken new ground with its latest green rubber. While rivals warn that super fuel-efficient tyres may not handle and brake as well as normal ones, its Energy Saver has shown it can be done.

Mitsubishi’s hatching...

Mitsubishi’s hatching a plan to launch a cut-price Evo X – and this is how it will look.

New cars trump their...

New cars trump their predecessors when it comes to being environmentally friendly, says the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). A study by the organisation shows today’s motors are more efficient and less polluting, despite being heavier than their ancestors.

Nissan has revealed...

Nissan has revealed the first image of its an all-new crossover concept - the Qazana.

Not only did it reveal...

Not only did it reveal its new BMW M3-rivalling IS-F, but the covers were also pulled off the next evolution of the LF-A supercar concept.

Of most concern to Safe...

Of most concern to Safe Speed are the figures on speed cameras: the number of speeding offences detected by camera are up by 6%, but the number detected by police is down by 29%.

ONE of the most famous...

ONE of the most famous names in Italian performance car history is set to return, Auto Express can reveal.

On the outside, the...

On the outside, the car gets subtle styling changes to distance it from the Golf. A revised front grille and bumper, a crease down the sides and the raised back end all help give a more classy appearance. The MkV Golf was much criticised for being too conservative compared with its predecessor, but the Bora is a bigger step forward over the current model. Underneath, the newcomer uses the hatchback"s sophisticated suspension, which will provide superior handling and ride.

Our spies have lifted...

Our spies have lifted the lid on Mercedes-McLarenтЂ™s most sensational cabrio to date. The SLR is fast approaching the end of its seven-year lifespan and the Anglo-German partnership has no intention of letting the controversial supercar drive off quietly into the sunset.

Peugeot is ready to...

Peugeot is ready to hitch a ride on the electric bandwagon тЂ“ by rebadging the Mitsubishi i-MiEV as its own...

Quality counts when...

Quality counts when buying a multitool. And maker Gerber seems able to give its products a premium feel at a fraction of the price of high-end rivals.

Regulations for having...

Regulations for having windows tinted can be daunting, but with the Privacy Shades there are no such worries. The dark fabric fits over the rear windows from the B-pillar backwards, ensuring you stay legal.

Renault has revealed...

Renault has revealed the first official pictures of its all-new Kangoo Be Bop. Heavily based on the Kangoo Compact Concept, which was unveiled at last year"s Frankfurt Motor Show, the Be Bop sports an all-new sliding tailgate and roof, which makes for a full-on wind-in-the-hair experience for rear passengers.

SAAB has revealed an...

SAAB has revealed an all-new model тЂ“ and itтЂ™s a breath of fresh air! Called the 9-X Air, it marks a radical reinvention of the traditional convertible.

Spanish car firm SEAT...

Spanish car firm SEAT is hinting that there is a load more to come from its popular Ibiza model with this sketch of an all new estate car model, badged the ST!

Special signs will tell...

Special signs will tell motorists to treat it as an additional lane in heavy traffic. A Highways Agency spokesman said: "If the flow is congested, overhead signs will impose 50mph limits and open the hard shoulder."

Spied while out on test...

Spied while out on test in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, this prototype has been identified by local sources as the new Ford I-MAX.

Statistics released...

Statistics released by the trade bible show that while the cost of three-year-old models is rising across all sectors of the market, new cars are even more expensive.

Supercar fans will have...

Supercar fans will have ‘Arash’ of new models later this year! British marque Arash Motor Company has unveiled its all-new AF-8 as a sister car to the bigger AF-10.

Take a look at the rarest...

Take a look at the rarest Alfa Romeo ever! It’s called the Spider Mille Miglia, and only 11 examples are planned for production.

Take a look inside AstonтЂ™s...

Take a look inside AstonтЂ™s new, four-door sports car. This is the new Rapide in all its glory тЂ“ giving the best look yet at the newcomer. As well as front and side views, these official CAD illustrations reveal the interior for the first time.

The 10th incarnation...

The 10th incarnation of the fast four-door will become more distinctive, thanks to the aggressive nose and headlamps influenced by the Grandis MPV. However, rally fans will be pleased to see the trademark rear spoiler has been kept to emphasise the car"s racing roots.

The 2005 and 2006 champion...

The 2005 and 2006 champion has quit the team run by his family to join Vauxhall, where he’ll line up alongside newly crowned champion Fabrizio Giovanardi in 2008.

The 27-year-old Englishman...

The 27-year-old Englishman has finally been given an opportunity to prove himself at the highest level, after impressing as Honda’s official reserve and test driver over the previous two seasons.

The all-action Auto...

The all-action Auto Express-backed Dunlop British Touring Car Championship ended in controversy at Donington Park at the weekend. MG ace Colin Turkington barged past Vauxhall’s Fabrizio Giovanardi at the last corner.

The all-new Renaultsport...

The all-new Renaultsport Mégane dCi 175 marks the company"s entry into the popular hot hatch oil-burner market.

The British Parking...

The British Parking Association has prepared the code which includes recommended tariffs for clamping and towing, and a clear, authoritative standard of unacceptable clamping behaviour against which Small Claims Courts and Trading Standards can measure legal cases.

The Bugatti Veyron might...

The Bugatti Veyron might be automotive nobility, but this latest version has got black rather than blue blood. The Veyron Sang Noir (which means black blood in French) is the latest limited-edition model from the Volkswagen-owned supercar maker.

The car seen here is...

The car seen here is destined for the South American market, and was unveiled at last week"s Sao Paolo Motor Show in Brazil. Called the SS - Super Sports - it showcases the 17-inch alloy wheels and chrome-trimmed wing mirrors and roof rails that will set the Meriva VXR apart from lesser models.

The car, unveiled at...

The car, unveiled at last week"s New York Motor Show, is billed as a concept. However, brand owner Nissan says it will be in production within 12 months. And bosses are expected to rubber-stamp a deal which will see the US marque come here, with the M45 a key model.

The city council says...

The city council says recording every incident which results in a fixed penalty will dramatically reduce the 20,000 disputed tickets a year. A spokeswoman for the authority said: "The cameras will provide a photographic record of every car issued a ticket to give evidence in a dispute."

The current issue of...

The current issue of the mag features an exclusive first sight of the open-top Spider version, which is expected to go on sale in the UK early in 2006. Similar to the outgoing 360 Spider, the new drop-top loses none of the visual drama of the F430, and will come with a fabric hood which folds electrically into a compartment in front of the mid-mounted engine.

The design team is working...

The design team is working on the assumption that by then there will be no accidents, as technology now under development won"t allow vehicles to collide. This frees the stylists up to think more creatively when it comes to what new Volvos will look like - as seen on the MPV pictured above.

The Driving Instructors...

The Driving Instructors Association (DIA) claims nearly two-thirds of members "do not believe the UK test is producing safe and competent drivers". And in a survey, 90 per cent said the hazard perception element - which examines the ability to perceive danger under real conditions - needs updating. Almost two-thirds are so worried that they want young motorists to be banned from driving at night - although three-quarters said the legal age should not be raised to 18, as was suggested among roads and safety campaigners earlier this year.

The E Boost took honours...

The E Boost took honours in the design explorations category thanks to its clever hybrid powerplant, which features an electric motor mated to a petrol engine to enhance performance and economy, plus reduce emissions.

The exclusive information...

The exclusive information from our Italian sources is that the next hatchback will bear the badge, previously seen on three-door models, as Fiat believes it has a strong image with buyers. Set to debut at the Paris Motor Show in September, the newcomer will go on sale in the UK in five-door form in early 2007, with a three-door, also called Bravo, to follow.

The Finn, 38, led from...

The Finn, 38, led from start to finish in the rain-soaked Welsh forests to end the season one point behind Sebastien Loeb. The Frenchman had already secured a third straight WRC crown despite missing the final four rounds after being hurt in a training accident.

The first motorway car...

The first motorway car share lane is now open. The route in West Yorkshire can be used by cars, vans and taxis containing more than one occupant. Motorcycles, buses and coaches are also permitted in it, but heavy goods vehicles are banned.

The Formula One racers...

The Formula One racers are on their summer break, but the action behind the scenes is continuing at full throttle. Honda has revealed it is hoping to sign two-time world champion Fernando Alonso for 2009. In a deal believed to be worth ТЈ7.6million, the Spaniard would line up alongside Jenson Button, replacing Rubens Barrichello.

The Frenchman won last...

The Frenchman won last weekend’s Rally Portugal, but with arch-rival Marcus Gronholm finishing second, the Citroen star was still two points adrift of the series lead. However, the Finn and his fellow Focus WRC runners were given a five-minute time penalty for infringing the regulations, when an official post-rally technical check discovered that the leading Fords were running illegal rear side windows. The decision dropped Gronholm from second to fourth position and, as a consequence, allowed Loeb to move into the lead of the championship by one point.

The Gerber Tread is...

The Gerber Tread is designed with car drivers in mind – the name represents the fact it’s got car tyre-like tread on the handles. Unfortunately, this proves to be one of the major drawbacks. You expect it to be rubberised and soft to touch, but instead it’s hard plastic which gets slippery when wet. It’s also quite uncomfortable on your palm, especially when you’re pressing hard on the handles of the built-in pliers.

The green light is being...

The green light is being given to thrifty motoring, with the introduction of a new dashboard-mounted lamp - and it could feature on Toyчota"s Corolla replacement.

The long-awaited newcomer"s...

The long-awaited newcomer"s cabin will look familiar to Boxster owners; the recently facelifted drop-top has loaned much of its switchgear to the firm"s new entry-level coupнѓ©. This official picture shows the distinctive sculpted instrument binnacle, as well as twin round air-vents above the LED information screen. However, elsewhere it"s all change, thanks to the Cayman"s metal roof and practical hatchback. At the rear of the seats there"s a small stowage area, which leads into a shallow 260-litre boot.

The LTD1088 has a 10-inch...

The LTD1088 has a 10-inch display, which can be tilted to suit nearly any seating position in the back of your car.

The Magic Eraser is...

The Magic Eraser is a trim cleaner that looks just like a long sponge. It is claimed to work simply by adding water, so to see how effective it is, we spread chocolate, dried juice and grease on a dashboard and then set to work.

The mag"s exclusive...

The mag"s exclusive pictures reveal that bosses have decided only the lightest of facelifts is necessary to keep the flagship 7-Series competitive.

The mag"s spies caught...

The mag"s spies caught the barely disguised load-lugger undergoing final testing, and fans of the practical old model can breathe a sigh of relief.

The main change for...

The main change for the Sport GT is to the Quattroporte transmission: the gearbox now features a Sport button, which cuts gearchange times by a third, addressing one of the biggest criticism of the Pininfarina-designed tourer.

The MkVI Golf GTI has...

The MkVI Golf GTI has only just hit the road, but already its crown is under threat! These are the best pictures yet of an even hotter variant, likely to be badged the Golf R20. We broke the story here in February, and these photos help to confirm the carтЂ™s existence.

The most significant...

The most significant changes to the range involve the XC70 soft-roader. It gets a revised mesh grille similar to that of its bigger off-road brother, the XC90. Platinum-grey lower-body trim at the front and rear is new, as are the alloys.

The news comes as Auto...

The news comes as Auto Express this week launches its Driver Power 2006 reliability survey. The decision to take ideas from Nissan came after research carried out across Europe found 31 of every 1,000 Renaults were hit by roadside breakdowns, and another 300 were plagued with minor faults.

The new Sebring four-door...

The new Sebring four-door family saloon goes on sale here in right-hand-drive form next year.

The new structure will...

The new structure will stretch across Morecambe Bay from Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, down to Heysham in Lancashire. Not only will it cut journey times, the bridge will also generate its own power using the waves from the Irish Sea.

The nose is dominated...

The nose is dominated by a V-shaped chrome badge flanked by the projector-style headlights from the Astra. It means that the only real difference between the four-seater executive car and the Vectra is the addition of an extra bar in the grille. New alloy wheels sharpen up the profile, while at the rear a restyled light cluster and bumper combination finishes the look.

Then you need the Road...

Then you need the Road Angel Navigator 9000! The maker claims that the GPRS mobile phone technology it uses will ensure that you have up-to-date traffic, weather and speed camera information, and will even alert you to the presence of mobile camera vans.

The official image shows...

The official image shows the sports car wrapped up alongside its legendary predecessor, but beneath the sheet lies an Opel-badged version of the US-only Saturn Sky. And the signs are that it could come to the UK as Vauxhall"s replacement for the VX220.

The only way is up for...

The only way is up for Hyundai! In a bid to banish its budget image once and for all, the Korean firm has set its sights on stealing BMW 7-Series and Mercedes S-Class customers with an all-new luxury flagship.

ThereтЂ™s a facelift...

ThereтЂ™s a facelift on the way for FerrariтЂ™s flagship тЂ“ and hereтЂ™s the picture to prove it! Thanks to our Dutch sister magazine, Auto Week, we can bring you this spy shot of FerrariтЂ™s new 612 Scaglietti, which has been snapped near to the Italian supercar makerтЂ™s home in Maranello.

The S-express has just...

The S-express has just rolled in! These are the first pictures of the new Audi S4 flagship тЂ“ and itтЂ™s lean, mean and ready to go.

These are the first...

These are the first official pictures of the production version of the car - and it looks very similar to the concept that Mercedes unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show last September.

These are the first...

These are the first official pictures of the front-wheel-drive Cadillac BLS, which will debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The BLS - which officially stands for "B-Series Luxury Sedan" - is the American maker"s answer to the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4, and will appear in showrooms here in right-hand drive.

These are the first...

These are the first shots of the newcomer, which will debut at next week"s Frankfurt Motor Show. Consigning straight lines and boxy design to the past, Mazda bosses say the Sassou is inspired by thin Japanese sliding screens - Shoji.

The Sexy Green Car Show...

The Sexy Green Car Show is back! Following the success of last year’s event, the eco-friendly motor expo returns. And the Eden Project in Cornwall – home to the two biggest greenhouses in the world – will play host for the second year in a row, from 23-31 May.

The survey by online...

The survey by online auto retailer Jamjar Cars also discovered a possible reason for this statistic - 30 per cent of facilities have no security measures, while nearly a third are poorly lit. These findings come a year after the Government pledged higher standards as part of its Safer Car Parks Scheme. A spokeswoman for Jamjar Cars told Auto Express: "This study highlights a need for improved security."

The ТЈ100m extension...

The ТЈ100m extension to the Scrappage Scheme seems to be getting the struggling UK motor industry back on track. The SMMT has reported the biggest rise in new car registrations for 2009 to date.

To bring the S60 up...

To bring the S60 up to date, styling cues have been taken from the recently introduced S40, resulting in a more contemporary appearance. There"s a new grille and rear light clusters, while the outgoing model"s black bumper strips have gone.

To help, Michelin has...

To help, Michelin has launched two new digital tyre gauges.

To prove there really...

To prove there really is no such thing as a January sale for drivers, a number of roadside price hikes have been sneaked through this month.

Toyчota has decided...

Toyчota has decided its next compact family hatch won"t be called Corolla, we can exclusively reveal.

Undercutting the competition...

Undercutting the competition on cost was clearly the blue oval"s intention, because the basic model costs н‚бЈ1,500 less than Vauxhall"s Astra VXR and is an astonishing н‚бЈ2,500 cheaper than the comparable Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Untaxed cars could be...

Untaxed cars could be removed from owners’ driveways and crushed under proposed new rules.

Until now, the fastest...

Until now, the fastest Octavia has only used the 2.0-litre turbo petrol unit from the Golf GTI. But following the success of the torquey diesel Fabia vRS, Skoda is keen to get a potent oil-burner into its larger model, too.

Unveiled alongside the...

Unveiled alongside the standard five-door cee"d and the estate, also revealed here for the first time, the cleverly named Pro_cee"d is more than just a styling exercise. But there"s a twist to the firm"s plans for the VW Golf GTI rival, as revealed by a spokesman: "The hottest hatch in the cee"d range will be a diesel."

Volkswagen is on a search...

Volkswagen is on a search and rescue mission! This is VWтЂ™s new Pickup concept, penned by a team led by ex-Audi design chief Walter de Silva, and set to go into production at the end of this year.

We"re all looking at...

We"re all looking at ways to drive more effiчciently these days. But how many motorists believe a fresh set of tyres would do the trick?

We"re just months away...

We"re just months away from from the Merc SLS Gullwing"s official unveiling, but the fifties original on which it"s based is still going strong! A US firm has created a fibreglass-bodied replica called the 300SL Panamerica, but brought it bang-up-to date with modern underpinnings.