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A German tuning firm...

A German tuning firm is showing Mercedes the way! Carlsson has bucked the trend for simply adding garish bodykits and pumped-up engines to existing cars by creating its very own supercar - the C25.

A joint project with...

A joint project with Suzuki, the model seen here will be called the Sedici. This means 16 in Italian - literally referring to the multiple of four times four. It merges a compact body with a practical interior, plus the ability to tackle rough terrain, thanks to its all-wheel-drive set-up and raised ride height.

An advanced hybrid diesel...

An advanced hybrid diesel engine, capable of returning 60mpg will power the planned production version of Land Rover’s stunning LRX, it has been announced.

An amazing split-boot...

An amazing split-boot version of the 5-Series executive is on the cards at BMW, Auto Express can reveal.

And as we predicted...

And as we predicted, it will use the same 197bhp FSI direct-injection petrol engine as the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

And it was a superb...

And it was a superb weekend for patriotic fans, with fellow Brits James Thompson, Rob Huff and WTCC rookie Colin Turkington all excelling at the Kent circuit.

And many told us they...

And many told us they were very impressed with the innovative new live action features and the content of the numerous stands. Car fan Mark Lewis, from Brighton, said: "I"ve been on the 4x4 course and to the Motropolis Live Action Arena. A lot of effort has gone into both, and it seems to be paying off." Debbie Watson of Solihull, W Mids, got behind the wheel of a Daihatsu Terios Sport at the Taster Test Drive. She explained: "I"m in the market for a new car so it"s a real bonus to have a go in one of the models I am considering."

And now it has admitted...

And now it has admitted it may cut prices to boost visitor numbers. A spokesman said: "We haven"t reached the aggressive targets we set for the the show. However, we have reversed the downward trend of previous years." The SMMT wanted to attract 600,000 visitors to the 13-day car expo.

And the firm has done...

And the firm has done it again, this time revealing first official pictures and details of its new executive hatchback.

And the newcomer certainly...

And the newcomer certainly lives up to its name, with CO2 emissions of 120g/km of and combined economy of 62.8mpg. Power for Volvo’s greenest-ever conventional-engined car comes from a revamped 1.6-litre turbodiesel with 104bhp. Revised gearing and aerodynamics also help boost economy.

And the picture quality...

And the picture quality on the 3.5-inch monitor is surprisingly good. The image is sharply defined in bright light, yet still works well in the dark. The device’s wide-angle lens provides a view of about 2.5 metres across and around two metres from the back of the car, although this can be adjusted by realigning the unit.

As if the Veyron Gran...

As if the Veyron Gran Sport wasn"t a rare enough site already! Following in the tyre tracks of the Sang Noir, Bleu Centenaire and the Fbg par Hermes special editions, Bugatti has thrown the covers off another subtely different variant of the Veyron at the Pebble Beach Concours d"Elegance.

AUDI could soon be giving...

AUDI could soon be giving the phrase тЂelectrifying performanceтЂ™ new meaning! Insiders at the German firm have told Auto Express that it is planning to reveal an electric version of its R8 supercar at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Audi has 10 new reasons...

Audi has 10 new reasons to celebrate, and hereтЂ™s why тЂ“ itтЂ™s the R8 V10 supercar!

Audi"s A5 coupe has...

Audi"s A5 coupe has been on a crash diet! A prototype car has had it"s overall weight slashed by 100kg as part of what the German firm calls "efficiency optimisation measures".

Auto Express can exclusively...

Auto Express can exclusively reveal the world"s only picture of the 9-3X, an SUV crossover model that would have seen Saab take on BMW"s X3 in the small 4x4 class.

Auto Express has got...

Auto Express has got the inside line on the long awaited Lexus LF-A, as our spies have grabbed the first ever pictures of the production ready model"s carbon clad cabin.

Auto Express magazine...

Auto Express magazine has these exclusive pictures of the model, which is a product of the growing relationship between the firm"s parent company, PSA, and Toyota. It"s intended to counter the increasing threat from the likes of Kia and Hyundai. According to our sources, the Peugeot will debut at the same time as Toyota and Citroen-badged variants. But while the three machines will share major parts, such as suspension and chassis, each is expected to look very different.

Believe it or not, this...

Believe it or not, this stunning looking sports car isn’t from a European, American or Japanese manufacturer – it’s Chinese!

Bentley"s new flagship...

Bentley"s new flagship is emerging from the shadows! This is the first picture of the Crewe firm"s replacement for the much-loved Arnage, which it is calling the "new grand Bentley".

BMWтЂ™s big news in...

BMWтЂ™s big news in New York is the X6M SUV. Unveiled as part of a pair with the X5M, the main emphasis at the show seems to be on the X6, with a car on each of the brandтЂ™s two show stands. It boasted particular presence in red, attracting a lot of attention.

BMW unveiled the X1...

BMW unveiled the X1 at Paris, but donтЂ™t let the name fool you... this is no mini-SUV! At a mere 108mm shorter than the X3, the conceptтЂ™s sheer bulk shocked onlookers.

Britain"s chances of...

Britain"s chances of hosting a grand prix beyond 2009 received a major boost last week. Circuit owner the British Racing Drivers’ Club voted overwhelmingly to support rescue plans to ensure the redevelopment of the event’s Silverstone venue.

British drivers have...

British drivers have been forced to hang on for longer than expected, after Renault boss Carlos Ghosn rejected the new Twingo and told company engineers to make it more cost effective and less like the original hatchback.

Business as usual тЂ“...

Business as usual тЂ“ thatтЂ™s the situation at Swedish firm Saab, despite the shock collapse of a planned sale to supercar maker Koenigsegg. Our spies caught this estate version of the new 9-5, which is due in UK dealers next year.

But the Finn still doesn"t...

But the Finn still doesn"t believe he can stop the Frenchman from retaining the coveted WRC crown. With Loeb overcoming some dramas of his own to finish second in Greece, Gronholm remains well adrift of the Citroen star in the championship standings.

But the significance...

But the significance of the picture goes further than simply looking inside the new people carrier. The S-MAX is the first Ford to be based on the platform of the next-generation Mondeo, and the top-selling family hatchback will have a very similar dashboard design to that seen in the mag.

Called the 9-7X, it...

Called the 9-7X, it is based on the Chevrolet Trailblazer and powered by either a 275bhp 4.2-litre straight six, or a 300bhp 5.3-litre V8 Corvette engine. Saab revealed the newcomer just as the Subaru-based 9-2X performance estate is about to go on sale in the US.

Called the Superчleggera...

Called the Superчleggera, this special-edition Gallardo is being given its world debut at this week"s Geneva Motor Show.

Called the V3, the newcomer...

Called the V3, the newcomer will use a platform which borrows many mechanical parts from the 1-Series, as well as elements of the suspension system from the high-riding X3.

Can there really be...

Can there really be such a thing as an eco-friendly mud-plugger? Mitsubishi seems to think so, and claims its new Concept-cX proves it.

Carbon future for Prancing Horse

Car rental giant Hertz...

Car rental giant Hertz has relaunched its NeverLost programme, which allows drivers to hire a sat-nav unit, as well as a vehicle, from the firm. The company has updated the portable systems in its fleet, and all are now based on the Magellan Roadmate 760 and Maestro.

Check out the latest...

Check out the latest official shots of what Bugatti hopes will be the worldтЂ™s fastest four-door.

Chrysler is aiming to...

Chrysler is aiming to silence its critics at this yearтЂ™s Detroit Motor Show with a new, all-electric family car concept called the 200C EV

Could these be the Fiats...

Could these be the Fiats of the future? The UK’s young automotive designers certainly think so – and the Italian car maker agrees!

Could this be the future...

Could this be the future of the British supercar. Under development since 2005 weтЂ™ve spied a working prototype of the Concept Climax out testing and it looks every bit as stunning as the original concept.

Councils are being caught...

Councils are being caught on camera flouting their own parking laws! We spotted this Smart CCTV car parked on double yellow lines outside a school in Medway, Kent тЂ“ one of the very places itтЂ™s hoping to catch motorists breaking road rules.

Cut-price imports from...

Cut-price imports from China – which for years have enabled drivers to reduce their running costs without compromising road safety – are set to soar in price as a clutch of economic reforms put the country’s competitive advantage on the skids.

Danish hi-fi pioneers...

Danish hi-fi pioneers Bang & Olufsen have made their first system for the in-car market. The lucky recipient of their design expertise is the Audi A8, and the sound spec is impressively high - a 14 speaker system supplies over 1,000 watts of power, shoved out by the ICEpower amp, and B&O"s Acoustic Lens technology ensures that higher frequencies are evenly dispersed throughout the car interior.

Designers clearly think...

Designers clearly think the key to increasing the Cayenne"s appeal lies in the lights, and the mag" simage shows the circular shape of the restyled lamps, complete with all-new detailing and integrated indicators.

Drivers ignoring texting message

Ever wondered what you...

Ever wondered what you will be driving in 20 yearsтЂ™ time? Volkswagen has asked its designers exactly that тЂ“ and this is their vision of 2028!

Exclusive Ferrari nets huge price

Fancy pushing a Subaru...

Fancy pushing a Subaru to the limit? Then you should try this driving day with Prodrive, the Japanese firm’s World Rally Championship-winning team, at its proving ground in Kenilworth, Warks.

Filling up can be a...

Filling up can be a messy business, but fuel-splattered hands could soon be a thing of the past. A team of Dutch inventors has unveiled the world’s first automatic refuelling robot, and it can top up your tank without you having to leave the car!

First he emulated his...

First he emulated his great hero Jim Clark by becoming only the second Scot - and fourth Briton - to win the legendary Indianapolis 500.

First up is the new...

First up is the new Land Rover Freelander, which has been spied testing with a light disguise for the first time. And for those with a bigger budget, we"ve exclusive details of Mercedes" plans for a baby M-Class, too.

Following on from the...

Following on from the mag"s scoop shots in issue 881, this is the first time we"ve seen an undisguised S80 out on the road. As you can see, it"s a much sleeker design than the current model: Volvo wants the S80 to compete with its German rivals in every area. At the front, the headlights and front bumper are particularly sporty, while the sweeping roofline and the bold rear lights give it a distinctive look.

Following the race...

Following the race, Lewis said that if Felipe Massa hadn’t stalled on the grid, he would have finished behind the Ferrari in fourth.

French giant Peugeot...

French giant Peugeot is set to axe its trademark hard-top on a new cabriolet. An insider has revealed that a convertible version of the stunning RC Z is on the way тЂ“ but it will shun a removable metal lid in favour of a lighter fabric roof.

Fruadulent insurance...

Fruadulent insurance claims now top чЈ4million a day, according to the Association of British Insurers. Its recent survey revealed one in 10 adults has cheated on their policy, causing an average rise in premium of чЈ40 a year.

German firm BMW will...

German firm BMW will return to the American Le Mans series this year. After an absence of seven years, the former champion outfit is joining forces with Rahal Letterman Racing to campaign the M3 GT2.

German firm Volkswagen...

German firm Volkswagen has announced prices for the all-new Polo тЂ“ and the supermini star will kick off at only ТЈ10,035 for the base 1.2-litre S petrol.

Government fat cats...

Government fat cats spend ВЈ7.16million a year on chauffeur-driven ministerial cars. And each one costs an average ВЈ73,000 to run рЂ“ thatрЂ™s 15 times more than the average motoristрЂ™s bill!

Having made its debut...

Having made its debut in the smash-hit James Bond movie, Casino Royale, the stylish family car arrives here in June, and is set to undercut its predecessor by as much as ?300. However, according to Glass’s Guide, there’s bad news for used buyers looking for a top deal, as it will have better residuals than the outgoing machine. That’s because the Mondeo is expected to retain 35 per cent of its value at trade-in time after three years, while the current car holds on to only 29 per cent over the same period. Estate models – which are scheduled to appear in showrooms at the same time as the new saloon and hatchback variants – will perform even more strongly, retaining 36 per cent of their original value.

Here"s a sports car...

Here"s a sports car thatтЂ™s on a real charge! Among the electric models at the British Motor Show, the Lightning GT was the undoubted star.

Here"s what the future...

Here"s what the future holds for SEAT. These are the first official pictures of the revised Leon hatchback, ahead of its world debut at Geneva, as well as the updated Altea and Altea XL MPV.

HereтЂ™s the proof that...

HereтЂ™s the proof that NissanтЂ™s big-selling Qashqai is heading for a mid-life makeover тЂ“ and itтЂ™s set to return as a hybrid!

His latest success came...

His latest success came at the Kansas Speedway, where he led virtually throughout the 200-lap event to extend his IndyCar series lead.

History is repeating...

History is repeating itself at Lotus. To celebrate 40 years of production at its Norfolk factory, the sportscar manufacturer has resurrected the classic Sprint name.

Holden is parent firm...

Holden is parent firm GM"s leading rear-wheel-drive chassis developer, and the factory space currently occupied by the Monaro production line is needed for other, more profitable projects.

Honda is showing some...

Honda is showing some real insight with its latest model! Billed as the affordable hybrid, Honda aims to undercut the established market leader the Prius, while offering better driving dynamics and outstanding fuel economy. And following the carтЂ™s second outing at a major motor show in Detroit, Auto Express has all the details.

Honda"s Insight has...

Honda"s Insight has broken cover, and Auto Express has the first official images!

Hot hatch fans D-light!...

Hot hatch fans D-light! The first Renaultsport diesel model will go on sale early next year in the shape of the Mégane Sports D.

Hot on the heels of...

Hot on the heels of the fresh-faced VW Golf Mk VI comes the next-generation version of its bigger brother тЂ“ the Golf Plus.

However, its influence...

However, its influence is visible elsewhere and the sharply styled headlights are clearly derived from those on the concept, as is the grille. Details around the tailgate are hidden in the mag"s spy shots, but the roadgoing Antara has a one-piece hatchback-style rear door.

If a Hummer’s...

If a Hummer’s not tough enough, check out this mean-looking off-roader! The eight-tonne bruiser is a British-built prototype which could eventually see action as the replacement for the US Army’s legendary HUMVEE military vehicle.

IF there isnтЂ™t enough...

IF there isnтЂ™t enough room in the boot of your car for all your luggage, you have a problem. A roof box can provide a solution тЂ“ and they donтЂ™t get much bigger than the Excellence from Thule.

If thereтЂ™s one thing...

If thereтЂ™s one thing the Gallardo LP 550-4 doesnтЂ™t need, itтЂ™s an injection of insanity! But that hasnтЂ™t stopped LamboтЂ™s engineers from developing a wild limited edition in honour of its most renowned test driver.

If you can’t get...

If you can’t get on with a hands-free headset, then this clever alternative is perfect. The Jabra SP5050 replaces the firm’s SP500 – the recommended choice in our Issue 945 test – and combines the practicality of a portable Bluetooth solution with the ease of use of a factory-fitted kit.

If you have ever carried...

If you have ever carried out DIY maintenance on your car, then you will know how easy it is to spill oil, engine coolant or even antifreeze on your driveway or garage floor. The problem is that if you leave it, the stain will quickly become a permanent eyesore on brick or concrete surfaces.

It is inspired by the...

It is inspired by the X-Treme, a mini sport utility concept which we brought you exclusive first pictures of at lastн‚б December"s Bologna Motor Show.

It revealed the average...

It revealed the average cost of a family day out to the Birmingham NEC was a staggering н‚бЈ70. Even for a person on their own, the cost was н‚бЈ36.

It"s Aston MartinтЂ™s...

It"s Aston MartinтЂ™s first four-door sports car тЂ“ and if youтЂ™ve got the cash to afford one, it could prove to be a steal.

It"s not only repairs...

It"s not only repairs you can save on by checking online. A new website called www.carservicedirect.com lets drivers search for garages that charge up to 40 per cent less for servicing than franchises, yet still meet manufacturer warranty standards.Youths are in a fix

It"s official тЂ“ SaabтЂ™s...

It"s official тЂ“ SaabтЂ™s new 9-5 is here! These pictures show the replacement for the Swedish firmтЂ™s long-standing executive saloon in all its glory тЂ“ and itтЂ™s a lot more handsome than the car it replaces. While itтЂ™s still clearly a 9-5, SaabтЂ™s designers have cleaned up the lines to give it a much tidier look than the outgoing model.

ItтЂ™s a car fanтЂ™s...

ItтЂ™s a car fanтЂ™s paradise! The Goodwood Festival of Speed is nearly upon us тЂ“ and this yearтЂ™s event will see the UK debuts of a number of exciting new models.

ItтЂ™s been a long time...

ItтЂ™s been a long time in the making, but finally ArashтЂ™s AF-10 has arrived. First unveiled at the British Motor Show back in 2006, the original prototype has had to overcome its share of problems as well as numerous revisions to get where it is today but that is all in the past now.

ItтЂ™s not very spacious...

ItтЂ™s not very spacious in the back, and you may notice more chassis flex, but with punchy, smooth engines, itтЂ™s a great cruiser

Land Rover has used...

Land Rover has used the British Motor Show to unveil its vision of the future тЂ“ and the eco-friendly technology that will drive it there.

Learning to improve...

Learning to improve your driving skills is vital if you’re to enjoy your car safely. This DVD is aimed at those who want to enhance their abilities behind the wheel using tried and tested techniques.

Like a Fenix from the...

Like a Fenix from the flames, Lee Noble is back! The designer behind the original lightweight Noble sportscar is set to return to the road and track with a new company, Fenix Automotive.

Luxury brand Bentley...

Luxury brand Bentley is simply flying at the moment. Not only has it recently unveiled its new Brooklands flagship (New Cars, Issue 999), but the hot Continental GT Speed is making waves, too. The only downside is that even the entry-level Flying Spur costs a huge чЈ117,500.

Marcos forced to close its doors

Meet MGтЂ™s hot new...

Meet MGтЂ™s hot new fastback тЂ“ which could be heading here! Set to debut at the Shanghai Motor Show at the end of April, the MG6 is based on the Roewe 550 тЂ“ successor to the Rover 45 and MG ZS.

Meet the car that"s...

Meet the car that"s putting the "lap" in Lapland! Our team of spies have caught the best pictures yet of BMW"s latest super saloon, the M5, putting its traction control to the test in frosty conditions.

Mercedes has given us...

Mercedes has given us a glimpse into its future тЂ“ and it looks fascinating. Merc took the wraps of its new Fascination concept for the first time today, and itтЂ™s set to be the blueprint for the next-generation of E-class.

Modesty obviously isn’t...

Modesty obviously isn’t the best policy at SsangYong – the Korean firm has boldly named its latest model the World Zenith!

Money may be tight right...

Money may be tight right now... but Ferrari fans will be pleased to hear that ownership of the famous badge has come a few steps closer!

More than 2,000 trucks...

More than 2,000 trucks and buses collide with bridges each year as drivers either forget the height of their vehicles or don"t see the warning signs. The infra-red sensors recognise high-sided vehicles as they approach, and trigger a special signal warning the driver to stop and find another route.

Morgan has just pulled...

Morgan has just pulled the wraps off the Lifecar – a hydrogen-powered vision of the future. The two-seater concept car uses fuel cell technology to convert hydrogen into electricity with water being the only by-product.

New powers which enable...

New powers which enable local councils to cut the congestion and disruption caused by roadworks have been introduced. The rules mean contractors could be banned from digging up roads during the rush hour. “There’s nothing more annoying than seeing work take place at the most inconvenient times,” said transport minister Rosie Winterton.

New small-segment arrivals...

New small-segment arrivals such as the Fiat Grande Punto and Vauxhall Corsa have helped earn their manufacturers a place in the list of the latest top 10 best sellers in Europe, fresh figures show.

Next yearтЂ™s all-new...

Next yearтЂ™s all-new Honda Accord wonтЂ™t only look futuristic тЂ“ it will also feature one of the worldтЂ™s most advanced diesel engines.

Nissan has the need...

Nissan has the need for speed! As well as the Murano GT-C, the firm will also be giving its 350Z coupé a boost, too. And the result will be a machine that should give the Porsche Cayman S something to think about.

No fewer than six drivers...

No fewer than six drivers are in contention for the title, after double WTCC champ Andy Priaulx failed to score a single point at Monza.

Not only does it have...

Not only does it have a radio, plus a CD, DVD and MP3 player, it also includes sat-nav. The double-DIN-sized MAX 973HD features a huge 30GB hard disk with room for up to 4,000 digital tracks, which can be downloaded at a useful eight times the playing speed. No multimedia player is complete without iPod connectivity, and the Clarion offers a flying lead for Apple’s top-selling gadget, plus the ability to play tunes and show both video and photos on the widescreen monitor.

One of the biggest motorsport...

One of the biggest motorsport events on the calendar takes place this weekend, and it promises to be one of the best in years. The Le Mans 24 Hours will see Audi and Peugeot fighting it out for top honours.

Our snappers captured...

Our snappers captured a pair of undisguised cars being put through final testing, revealing exactly how the new model will look. The Merc gets a neat rear end inspired by the larger S-Class and CL. The curvy new styling incorporates a shorter boot, with wraparound tail-lamps and chrome trim.

Plug-in Saturn 4x4 goes the distance

Production of the sporty...

Production of the sporty MG TF was due to begin in the West Midlands at the same time as the first MG7 saloon rolled off the line at the Nanjing Automobile Corporation (NAC) plant.

Prototypes are already...

Prototypes are already being tested by engineers in Belgium and Germany, and although the blue oval is reluctant to give any indication of a launch date, it"s thought the new model could be in dealerships by the end of 2006.

Research shows that...

Research shows that good service when you purchase a second-hand car can often be followed by poor aftersales care.

Seen here officially...

Seen here officially for the first time, the Infiniti models are due to be unveiled at the New York Motor Show in April, and will go on sale in dealers here by the end of the year.

Set to be unveiled this...

Set to be unveiled this week at Gerчmany"s Essen Motor Show, the Scout goes on sale in the UK next summer

SEVENTY per cent of...

SEVENTY per cent of young drivers aren’t interested in eco-friendly cars. A Lloyds TSB survey found a vehicle’s condition, brand and colour were top concerns. Of those who did go ‘green’, one in seven said they did so to impress friends and family.

Simply wearing the wrong...

Simply wearing the wrong clothes or having a dodgy haircut could cost you a sale. That’s according to a survey of more than 1,400 people carried out by leading auction website eBay.

Size matters. Sony’s...

Size matters. Sony’s latest sat-nav has the largest display we’ve tried, at 4.8 inches. The NV-U93T provides an easy-to-see widescreen view, while the slim design means it isn’t too heavy.

Skoda is jumping on...

Skoda is jumping on the environmental bandwagon as well. The Czech maker is launching a new eco-friendly Fabia – badged Greenline – at the Frankfurt Show. And with CO2 emissions of 110g/km and 70mpg fuel economy, it certainly lives up to its name.

Sleeker, sportier and...

Sleeker, sportier and greener – that’s what Honda is promising with the next-generation Accord.

Sober bodywork and discreet...

Sober bodywork and discreet styling... the Sapphire Cosworth marked a radical change of direction for Ford’s flagship. Gone were the big wings and bonnet scoops of its predecessor, the three-door Sierra Cosworth. The aim was to make the new ‘Cossie’ appeal to

So, how exactly does...

So, how exactly does the new powerplant work? The fact that GM engineers have been working for the past 10 years to perfect the Homogenous Charge Compression Ignition technology suggests there is no easy answer.

Speaking at the launch...

Speaking at the launch of the XLR - the company"s н‚бЈ67,500 luxury roadster - they said there"s a raft of new models on the way. And while there"s no UK distribution network in place, all that"s about to change.

Specialist Experian...

Specialist Experian has added an environmental section to its data reports, so second-hand buyers can see the ecological credentials of their next vehicle, in addition to finding out if it has been stolen or written-off during its lifetime.

Speed cameras on Britain’s...

Speed cameras on Britain’s busiest motorway are about to go digital.

Spy shots don"t come...

Spy shots don"t come much clearer than this! We"ve already seen renault_scenic_shapes_up.html" href="../news/autoexpressnews/229791/allnew_renault_scenic_shapes_up.html">leaked images from the European patent office, but now the Renault Scenic MPV has been spied without camouflage for the first time, ahead of its debut in Geneva next month.

Take a look at Toyota"s...

Take a look at Toyota"s electric vision of the future. Called the FT-EV II, this cleverly designed, compact, electric concept is based on the iQ but will be specifically useful for short distance travel.

Taking great care not...

Taking great care not to lose any of the Arnage"s imposing muscle, stylists have concentrated on bringing the huge four-door"s front end up to date. Falling in line with the Continental GT and Azure, the Arnage boasts new twin headlamps and a reshaped bonnet.

Test drivers are evaluating...

Test drivers are evaluating a final flagship for the hatchback range, badged the R36. Powered by the 3.6-litre V6 that debuted in the Passat, the car will offer between 280 and 300bhp. Due on sale early next year, it will hit the road 12 months ahead of the March 2008 debut of the new-look Golf. Prices are still being kept under wraps, although it"s expected the newcomer will cost at least чЈ1,500 more than the current R32, weighing in at чЈ26,000.

The 1.8-litre VVT-i...

The 1.8-litre VVT-i engine is found in models across the line-up, but can suffer from excessive oil burning from as few as 50,000-60,000 miles, according to main dealers. The problem is being blamed on the piston ring design, and Toyota says that any unit consuming more than one litre of oil every 1,000 miles will be looked at and, full service history permitting, rectified.

The A5 sportback isnтЂ™t...

The A5 sportback isnтЂ™t in showrooms yet. But Audi will turn up the heat on the new model by revealing this тЂ“ the new S5 version тЂ“ at Frankfurt. Т

The AA Motoring Trust...

The AA Motoring Trust and RAC Foundation hit out after it was revealed the Department for Transport and its agencies spent a staggering н‚бЈ5million hiring extra lawyers to deal with an increase in claims last year. "I"d like to have seen the money going on a new bypass instead of legal costs for public inquiries and land disputes," said Paul Watters of the AA Motoring Trust. And Edmund King from the RAC added: "If planning procedures were streamlined, we"d get a better transport network in place faster and for less expense."

The Blackpool-based...

The Blackpool-based company, acquired in 2004 by Russian millionaire Nikolai Smolensky, has confirmed that it will close its only UK plant at Bispham, with the loss of 260 local jobs.

The car is set to replace...

The car is set to replace the current 607, which is a slow seller in the UK, although it"s more popular in mainland Europe. The 708"s smooth rear has wraparound light clusters above sporty twin exhausts, while the shoulder line dips as it approaches the front of the car, giving the newcomer curved flanks similar to Mercedes" CLS.

The company maintains...

The company maintains there is no design-fault with the mechanism, but now appears to have back-tracked on its original stance and is contacting more than 400,000 Clio II owners

The Eighties were full...

The Eighties were full of brash hot hatches, but in the Nineties there was one clear champion: the Clio Williams.

The exterior of PorscheтЂ™s...

The exterior of PorscheтЂ™s first four-door might have divided opinion, but what about the cabin? These are the first official photos of the PanameraтЂ™s luxurious interior, fitted with all the creature comforts you could ever need.

The firm"s new Aerokit...

The firm"s new Aerokit styling package not only gives the coupé a more aggressive look, it also improves the car"s airflow. Changes are substantial - at the front there are individual lips below each air intake, while the rear gets a spoiler clearly influenced by the 911 GT3. More pronounced side skirts complete the look. Designed in a wind tunnel by the company"s motorsport engineers at Weissach in Germany, the new components reduce aerodynamic lift over both axles, meaning the Cayman will feel even more planted at high speeds.

The five-door hatchback...

The five-door hatchback, which will replace the slow-selling Almera, is part of an innovative new range. It has been designed to boost the appeal of the company"s traditionally conservative small family car line-up. And by 2009, it will have been joined by an SUV based on the Qashqai concept as well as a small sports coupнѓ©.

The French-owned team...

The French-owned team is currently fourth in the constructors’ championship, while its drivers have yet to finish higher than fifth in any of the year’s races.

The front end will be...

The front end will be slightly toned down and the unusual sliding rear doors are set to disappear, but the Omega will definitely retain the bold profile and unusual rear end of the striking prototype. The car will debut at the 2007 Frankfurt show and Vauxhall hopes to have it in dealers by the end of that year.

The FXX is an outrageous...

The FXX is an outrageous 6.2-litre V12 single-seater that delivers more than 800bhp. Only around 20 will be made, and bosses claim it"s the most advanced GT they"ve ever created.

The German firm has...

The German firm has announced a bespoke personalisation scheme for its entire range of cars. Called Exclusive, this offers “virtually infinite customisation possibilities”. “It opens up the palette, with more than 30,000 ready-prepared colours,” explained a spokesman. “But there’s also the option of one-off mixes as long as a suitable sample is supplied.”

The Government is proposing...

The Government is proposing that one region outside of London will carry out a major road toll trial - and that could open the pay-as-you-go floodgates for other areas.

The hi-tech plipper...

The hi-tech plipper is called the AviStart 4400, and the н‚бЈ350 system is produced by Californian company Directed Electronics. Motorists can remotely start their car at the touch of a button, as well as setting the desired interior temperature.

The increased ferocity...

The increased ferocity and frequency of winter storms in the Western Isles can cutч them off for days. Now councillors and business leaders have started to devise a multi-billion-pound undersea link betчween Stornoway, on the island of Lewis, and Ullapool in Wester Ross.

The Jaguar X-Type has...

The Jaguar X-Type has been given a fresh look – and now, for the first time, the diesel model will be available with an automatic gearbox.

The lid has been lifted...

The lid has been lifted on FiatтЂ™s drop-top 500. Auto Express has learned that the newcomer will be available with a roll-back roof тЂ“ just like the Fifties original.

The MiTo is getting...

The MiTo is getting mightier! This wild two-tone version of Alfa Romeo"s new supermini made its debut at the Essen Motor Show тЂ“ and it"s the closest thing yet to the forthcoming GTA hot hatch.

The new bulbs now have...

The new bulbs now have revised filaments that should be able to cope better with rough roads, but without affecting the beam they deliver. The development team has also changed the gas mix to reduce dazzle for on-coming motorists, particularly in poor weather when light is reflected off a soaking road. As with the outgoing version, PIAA claims the bulbs, rated at 65/55 watts, deliver a light output equivalent to 110/100 watt lamps. Despite this increase in claimed performance, the bulbs are E marked and are legal to use on UK roads.

The new executive machine...

The new executive machine follows the S-Class"s styling, and features a bold face with a broad grille, plus dramatic triangular headlights for a look which is far more striking than the current car"s. The rest of the saloon is also expected to be inspired by the S-Class, with the design taking cues from the CLS four-door coupé, too.

The new high-performance...

The new high-performance Mitsubishi, which is scheduled to appear in the firm’s UK showrooms early next year, will be offered with the option of a conventional five-speed manual gearbox or a brand new two-pedal clutchless set-up.

The new listing - Band...

The new listing - Band G - was introduced last week in Chancellor Gordon Brown"s Budget speech among a raft of changes designed to show the Government"s environmentally friendly side.

The news came as company...

The news came as company boss Peter Augustsson unveiled the 9-7X - itself a crossover - at the New York Motor Show (image). We"ve had an exclusive sneak preview of the design sketches of the newcomer, and although we can"t publish them, there"s nothing to stop us telling you about the car.

The new VW Passat Coupé...

The new VW Passat Coupé has emerged from the shadows – and these are the first official images of the German firm’s sleek four-door.ч

Then this is the product...

Then this is the product for you, as the Black and Decker Travel Cooler is equally at home with hot or cold food.

The popularity of in-car...

The popularity of in-car and portable satellite navigation systems has forced the map maker to change its thinking, and its new SatNav Atlas Great Britain is designed as a companion for the set-ups.

The Puma burst into...

The Puma burst into showrooms in 1997 as the second car to showcase Ford’s ‘new edge’ design philosophy. Coming hot on the heels of the Ka, the coupé’s looks and excellent proportions made it the only Ford at the time to have a waiting list. This was due in no small part to a memorable ad campaign featuring the late Steve McQueen blasting round San Francisco’s streets.

The retro Efijy is a...

The retro Efijy is a re-make of the 1953 FJ Holden, and is based on a brand new Corvette platform. Under the bonnet, there"s a mighty chrome-trimmed supercharged 6.0-litre V8 powerplant.

The revisions aim to...

The revisions aim to appeal to keen drivers, but you"ll be hard-pressed to spot them from the outside.

There was no doubt as...

There was no doubt as to the star of Subaru"s stand at Tokyo...this amazing

There was no hesitation...

There was no hesitation in FordтЂ™s plans to reveal its first stop-start system at the Detroit Motor Show.

"These markings keep...

"These markings keep drivers on the correct path," Paul Watters explained. "Without them, you could be on the wrong part of the road, which is at best inconvenient and at worst dangerous."

The Spyker grand prix...

The Spyker grand prix team will field a new-look driver line-up in Germany this weekend after dropping Christijan Albers because of sponsor problems. While the Dutch driver has been outperformed by German rookie team-mate Adrian Sutil for most of this year – and was forced out of the French GP after a bizarre fuel hose mix-up – Spyker boss Colin Kolles said axing him was a difficult decision. “We are faced with no other option,” he claimed. “The team’s ambitious programme has been seriously compromised by the non-payment by one of his sponsors.”

The Swansea-based official...

The Swansea-based official register keeper has now given a bizarre explanation for its cash-grabbing scheme, saying a local number would let residents in South Wales ring at lower costs than the rest of the country. But it claims it chose not to use an 0845 lo-call number, which costs only 4p a minute to everybody, because this would be too expensive to run.

The two-seater wowed...

The two-seater wowed showgoers with its looks and jet-style opening canopy! Inspired by Saab"s aircraft heritage, the Aero X has no side doors to speak of. Instead, the entire panoramic glass roof, wraparound windscreen and side body panels move up and forwards, by remote control, to give access to the cabin.

The UK"s biggest and...

The UK"s biggest and best car satisfaction survey is back рЂ“ and we need your help to make it better than ever!

They are meant to bring...

They are meant to bring your ageing engine back to life by boosting its power, torque and economy.

This is because the...

This is because the unit contains data from the Michelin Guides. The firm’s restaurant listings are among the best around... but what about the sat-nav – can it do the job, too?

This is the all-new...

This is the all-new hybrid sports car from Honda which is set to hit UK showrooms by next summer. The car in question is the eagerly anticipated CR-Z, the spiritual successor to the much loved MkII CR-X.

This scout really is...

This scout really is prepared for anything! Skoda has released official pictures of the rugged new Fabia Scout тЂ“ a downsized rival to the Audi A4 allroad and Saab 9-3X. And all three of these beefed-up estate cars will break cover at the Geneva Motor Show.

This weekend’s...

This weekend’s HiQ British Touring Car Championship round at Rockingham will pay tribute to David Leslie and Richard Lloyd, who lost their lives in an air crash near Biggin Hill in Kent last month.

Unhappy Ford Focus CC...

Unhappy Ford Focus CC owners are swapping their coupé-cabrios for the facelifted version which debuted at the Geneva Motor Show.

VW bosses had said the...

VW bosses had said the range was complete with the standard hatch, the new Plus and Touran MPV. However, during the Golf Plus launch, a Wolfsburg employee revealed to Auto Express that a MkV estate would appear in 2006.

Want to see a host of...

Want to see a host of new car debuts this summer? Well, head to the Goodwood Festival of Speed rather than the British Motor Show! Organisers say they’ve pulled out all the stops to make the West Sussex event as much a showcase of new metal as it is a motor-sport gathering. So, it could upstage the exhibition at ExCeL in London’s Dock-lands just over a week later.

Waxing your carтЂ™s...

Waxing your carтЂ™s bodywork can leave it with a great-looking and long-lasting finish. But to achieve this, itтЂ™s essential that you prepare the paint properly тЂ“ and this is where clay bars like this new product from the Halfords Advanced range come into their own.

Wearing the bold scorpion...

Wearing the bold scorpion badge of the famous tuning arm, the models are set to debut alongside the new baby next year. And as you"ll see from our sensational pictures, which are based on insider information, they"ll certainly cause some excitement.

We captured the moment...

We captured the moment, and it"s good news - the Alfa Romeo Brera GTA is go! Bosses at the Italian firm let the cat out of the bag at an internal meeting, when a head-on image of the stunning new performance flagship was flashed up alongside the famous GTA logo during a presentation.