Analytics

Analytics

1. Focus RS

Abarth, the firm that...

Abarth, the firm that found fame tuning Fiats for racing, was officially relaunched last night as a car company in its own right at its spiritual home in Turin. The event saw the production edition of the brand’s first new road model in 25 years take a bow, as the wraps were pulled from the 150bhp 1.4-litre Abarth Grande Punto.

A brilliant new device...

A brilliant new device which fires a microchip tracker into car tyres is set to spike fuel thieves.

A CAR carrying Toyota...

A CAR carrying Toyota personnel was attacked by a gun-toting thug in Brazil. Afterwards, security at the track was beefed up – leading to a fight between Renault boss Flavio Briatore’s personal bodyguard and a trackside bouncer.

Accident-free motoring...

Accident-free motoring will move a step closer later this year when a safety trial kicks off in Germany that features cars capable of ‘talking’ to each other to avoid collisions!

According to our spies...

According to our spies, the revolutionary technology that"s set to make this possible is called Traffic Assist, and is currently being developed at the firm"s engineering centre at Rнѓбјsselsheim, Germany. Set to debut soon after the family car"s launch in 2008, it uses lasers, a video camera and huge computing power to read the road ahead, spot warning signs, lane markings, bends and, most crucially, other vehicles.

A combination of jet...

A combination of jet lag, tradition and technology means that I’m writing this column at an absurdly unsociable hour from my temporary office-cum-studio on one of the best-known driving streets in the most notorious car city on the planet. I’m jet lagged because I’ve just travelled from China, which is eight hours ahead of the UK, to Los Angeles which is eight hours behind. So it’s little wonder that my body clock is more troubled than a Ford corporate accountant and I’m wide awake at 3.30am, penning these words on the eve of the LA Auto Show.

Actually, we"re talking...

Actually, we"re talking two separate brands here - Cadillac and Corvette - and the aim isn"t to sell big numbers. Discerning clients will be offered prestige, exclusivity and dreams; qualities not consistent with volume products, be they cars or any other type of luxury goods.

After 23 cars self-combusted...

After 23 cars self-combusted, the French manufacturer was forced to recall and fix 28,000 vehicles built before May 2003. The fires, which all happened in Sweden, Norway and Denmark, only related to 1.6 or 2.0-litre petrol versions. All the cars went up in flames while the engine was turned off.

All school pupils to...

All school pupils to receive weekly lessons on the dangers of crossing roads and using bikes and cars. Cycling proficiency tests will return. Older kids should get access to driver familiarisation sessions, hazard awareness courses and first aid training.

All the style of a Mercedes...

All the style of a Mercedes CLS at a fraction of the price – that’ll be Volkswagen’s brand new four-door Passat coupe.

Although he"s in the...

Although he"s in the lead of this year"s British Touring Car series chase, Neal has never won a race at the fastest track on the schedule. He wants to put that right this year, and in the process move his bid for back-to-back championships up a gear.

And believe it or not...

And believe it or not, the pretty two-seater shares its underpinnings with the Fiat Panda.

And have you noticed...

And have you noticed that the horribly oversimplistic and misleading "speed kills" campaign seems to have been wound down? Has it been replaced, I wonder, by the much worthier "stop smoking" blitz? I know what you"re thinking: this guy"s obviously a motorist who occasionally speeds and doesn"t smoke, so it"s no surprise that he"s selfishly in favour of anti-smoking rather than anti-speeding action.

And he had another VIP...

And he had another VIP limo ride booked so that he could exit Television Centre quickly, comfortably and without having to brave the early morning chill. Furthermore, I couldn"t resist pulling my return rail ticket out of my pocket and explaining that I - one of those evil, planet-destroying motorists - had chosen to travel by train that day.

And, inspired by the...

And, inspired by the 2003 VX Lightning concept which was developed at General Motors" Advanced Design Studio in Birmingham, the model will replace the VX220 in the Vauxhall line-up.

And its introduction...

And its introduction means the gloves are now off in the battle to be hot hatch king, as the car will go head-to-head with the forthcoming Ford Focus ST. Both are aimed at keen drivers, with VW desperate to address criticisms that the MkIV GTI was too soft for fans of the coveted original model.

And not only is Auto...

And not only is Auto Express able to bring you these first pictures of Toyota"s replacement for the Corolla, but we can also reveal its name.

And thanks to these...

And thanks to these exclusive pictures, we can give you the best look yet at the firm’s forthcoming SUV – the X6.

And the deal couldn"t...

And the deal couldn"t have got off to a better start - Chevy will unveil this stylish new SUV, the S3X, at the Paris Motor Show this week. A seven-seater with a cabin layout adapted from the Vauxhall Zafira"s, it will be available in 2.0-litre diesel and as-yet-unknown petrol guise from early 2006.

And unlike the outgoing...

And unlike the outgoing load-lugger, which had very little in the way of styling flair, the newcomer is aimed at a much trendier market. Note the sleek lines, chunky wheelarches and classy full-length chrome roof rails. In profile, the model bears more than a passing resemblance to the Peugeot 307 SW.

And while the prototype"s...

And while the prototype"s two-door bodystyle is unlikely to be offered outside the US, its front end hints at the look of the British-built machine, set to debut at September"s Frankfurt expo.

An electric commuter...

An electric commuter car is on the way from Renault, and the company is working flat-out to have it ready for the London 2012 Olympics.

Another week, and here’s...

Another week, and here’s another new Kia! Folчlowчing on from the new Audi R8-style coupé and the sporty three-door Cee’d hatchback, Auto Express can now reveal that the Korean firm is gunning for Land Rover’s Discovery.

Answers below.

A road safety website...

A road safety website allows motorists to publicly shame bad drivers. But who can be sure what they are claiming is actually true?

A shocked Heikki Kovalainen...

A shocked Heikki Kovalainen scored his maiden grand prix victory at the Hungaroring in Hungary on Sunday.

As our images show...

As our images show, the designers have gone back to the drawing board with the exterior styling. There"s also a new platform, a revised range of engines and a spacious interior.

A spokesman for the...

A spokesman for the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which stages the event, told Auto Express: "Everything is up for grabs - and that includes the venue." The news will be a blow to the thousands of Midlands companies which get a massive profits boost when the bi-annual expo is on.

A star is born. These...

A star is born. These are the first and exclusive pictures of the all-new Fiesta. And they reveal how the Ford baby draws its inspiration from the latest Mondeo and the excellent S-MAX people carrier to create a supermini that’s as exciting to look at as any of its rivals.

As this week"s mag"s...

As this week"s mag"s exclusive photographs show, Porsche is giving its Cayenne off-roader a mid-life facelift in a bid to boost the model"s appeal. Our spies caught the new-look SUV testing near the firm"s home town of Weissach, Germany.

Aston Martin is ready...

Aston Martin is ready to take the supercar market by storm with this sensational new super-Vantage – its fastest accelerating road car ever.

A stunning grand tourer...

A stunning grand tourer that offers seating for four and ample luggage space, it will go on sale this time next year.

As well as offering...

As well as offering a sensational first look at the car, these shots confirm the accuracy of our own scoop pictures of the all-new people carrier, first published in issue 818.

As with the current...

As with the current version, both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive quattro models will be available, but the newcomer promises to raise the bar for performance and luxury in the fiercely contested executive car class thanks to a new driver-oriented steel chassis and a diverse range of powerful diesel and petrol engines.

As you can see, itтЂ™s...

As you can see, itтЂ™s set to cause a real stir in the SUV market, thanks to its sleek, coupé-like looks. Following on from our spy shots in Issue 970, these images, which were taken near to BMWтЂ™s Munich base, show the car virtually undisguised for the first time.

At first glance it might...

At first glance it might look like a standard 4x4, but the bulging wheel-arches and mismatched panels are the clues that underneath this bodyshell lies the all-new Freelander.

At the front, there...

At the front, there are bold new headlamps either side of the fresh grille, while a bigger air intake in the bumper pushes the foglamps further apart. The revisions have been carried out across the entire range - including the C+C - but fans of the big-selling family model can relax, because its distinctive rump has survived the remodelling.

At the recent Los Angeles...

At the recent Los Angeles Motor Show, I offered to buy lunch for Honda’s environmental manager, John Kingston. But cordon bleu this was not.

Audi has revealed all...

Audi has revealed all on its updated A6 range тЂ“ and Auto Express has the details. Going on sale in the UK this autumn, the luxury saloon will be revealed at the Moscow Motor Show later this month.

AUDI wants a Brit to...

AUDI wants a Brit to join its 2007 DTM attack. Adam Carroll, Danny Watts and Oliver Jarvis are all in the frame to drive an A4 in this year’s German V8 touring car series.

Auto Express can exclusively...

Auto Express can exclusively show the newcomer without any disguise, as test drivers from General Motors put it through its paces during a towing trial on the Continent. They were hoping the subtle design changes would go unnoticed... but our eagle-eyed spies still clocked the revised car.

Auto Express has learned...

Auto Express has learned that Toyota is considering naming an entire range after its hi-tech hybrid car - in the same way as it created the Lexus badge for its most expensive machines.

Auto Express magazine...

Auto Express magazine has gained access to top-secret information from Citroen"s HQ, and in this week"s issue has published pictures to show what buyers have to look forward to.

Badged the Libertin...

Badged the Libertin, it remains totally unchanged from the standard people carrier in terms of performance and accommodation - but comes with a clever three-piece folding hard-top.

Based on the A6 Avant...

Based on the A6 Avant, the newcomer was snapped on a stretch of autobahn in Germany. Instantly identifiable thanks to its raised ride height, the Allroad also gets a new-look rear bumper. The inspiration for that has come from the concept version unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January.

Based on the Concept...

Based on the Concept R show car which debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2003, the mid-engined two-seater roadster will offer searing pace and razor-sharp handling.

Based on the facelifted...

Based on the facelifted Impreza WRX STi - which we drive for the first time this week on Page 28 - the car should D-light owners with its engine tuned by Prodrive and an interior that offers greater luxury than ever before.

Based on the Swedish...

Based on the Swedish firm"s new V70 estate, the all-wheel-drive load-lugger adds protective body mouldings and an increased ride height. Research by Volvo shows that more XC70s are used off-road than full-sized XC90 SUVs, so designers have concentrated on the car"s performance over rough terrain.

Based on the Vignale...

Based on the Vignale concept that appeared at September"s Paris Motor Show, the Focus CC will boast the firm"s first folding hard-top, adding some glamour to the range. However, those who hoped the show car"s radical styling and chrome touches would make it into production will be disappointed.

Belt message still saving lives

Beneath the Nissan Pivo2...

Beneath the Nissan Pivo2 show car’s swivelling cabin and shopping trolley wheels, the three-seater showcases Nissan’s latest battery technology – which will be ready for production in 2010.

Between the 11 - 14...

Between the 11 - 14 June thousands of Brits will head to North West France joining up with a 250,000-strong crowd of motorsport fans to watch the world-famous Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race. For many of those making the trip, the drive down to the circuit is one of the highlights of the weekend.

Biofuel is wreaking...

Biofuel is wreaking havoc with car engines. Due to Government rules, all diesel sold in the UK must be blended with the eco-friendly fuel.

BMW is heading into...

BMW is heading into Ford Fiesta territory! Auto Express has learned that the German firm is readying a new front-wheel-drive supermini, likely to be badged the 0-Series. And our exclusive pictures give you the best view yet of how the compact contender will look.

Britain’s Jenson...

Britain’s Jenson Button has admitted that winning his first-ever grand prix was easy. The Honda driver took his and the Japanese team’s debut victory in the Hungarian Grand Prix, after coming through from 14th on the grid.

British ace Jenson Button...

British ace Jenson Button scored his second race win on the trot, with victory in an action packed Malaysian grand prix.

British star Lewis Hamilton...

British star Lewis Hamilton enjoyed the perfect start to 2008 as he finished on top Down Under.

But at least O"Donnell"s...

But at least O"Donnell"s brutal assertion that the money the beleaguered quartet are paying themselves is "disgusting" should ensure him a place of his own in the book of Greatest Motoring Quotations. (I"ll compile it if somebody will publish it!). Unacceptable! Disgusting! Is this appropriate language from the boss of BMW"s substantial UK operation when referring to a rival firm which also happens to be a former member of the Bavarian company"s extended family? If these words of criticism came from a vulnerable, poorly paid MG Rover employee, I think they"d carry considerable weight.

But despite its action...

But despite its action adventure appearance, the jaw-dropper, known as Nero, has nothing to do with the silver screen. Penned at Audi"s design centre in California, these official pictures reveal the firm"s vision of the future.

But don"t expect me...

But don"t expect me and, I imagine, most UK drivers to sign up for this new state-of-the-art Norwich Union deal (Newsweek, issue 821), which I consider to be intrusive, frightening and almost offensive.

But now Volvo has gone...

But now Volvo has gone and thrown a nail file in the works by staging a cheap, badly managed and cheesy publicity stunt at the Geneva Motor Show. This, the Ford-owned, Swedish firm did by not only erecting barriers, but doing so proudly, publicly and provocatively. In establishing an "all-woman" team to develop, over several years, a vehicle called Your Concept Car or YCC, Volvo females blatantly banned Volvo males. Aren"t there equality laws to prevent this sort of workplace prejudice and exclusion?

But the news will make...

But the news will make bosses at Toyota happy, too. As a result of a deal between the two Japanese firms back in 2002, the Altima will use the same cutting-edge technology - a combination of conventional petrol engine and rechargeable battery power - that drives the Prius. The agreement stipulates that Nissan will produce 100,000 fuel cell cars within a five-year period.

But the problems begin...

But the problems begin when passengers don"t even begin to cover the true cost of their buses, fuel, servicing and repairs, drivers, administrators and multi-millionaire company bosses. Bizarrely though, still they expect priority over me and my car.

But there is good news...

But there is good news for diehard MINI traditionalists - the new grille is getting bigger and will echo more closely the look of the original Mini, introduced 45 years ago.

But while I believe...

But while I believe their intentions are honourable, I wasn"t so impressed with their method of protest. Didn"t anybody tell these keen-but-naive activists that by aimlessly driving around the motorway network in circles in work time they had to purchase even more fuel than normal, thereby giving the Chancellor more money? Also, they gave up a valuable weekday, which might have been better spent earning a few quid.

But why does the Syn...

But why does the Syn need to be so secure? The answer is in the fact it was unveiled at this week"s Detroit Motor Show. The newcomer is designed to introduce American drivers to the idea of a safe supermini-sized SUV for urban use. Ford claims most of its US buyers will live in built-up areas by 2010, and that downsizing from currently popular regular SUVs is inevitable.

By investing чЈ650million...

By investing чЈ650million in its development, the French firm has built a car that"s more refined and luxurious than any other supermini.

Called Auto-txt, the...

Called Auto-txt, the equipment identifies drivers via their telephones and detects instantly if their car is stolen. The latest Thatcham 5 device is alerted that something is wrong when a vehicle is started with its correct keys, but the owner"s Bluetooth-enabled mobile is not present.

Called the DBS, the...

Called the DBS, the very special Aston pictured here is based on an uprated version of the DB9, and will go into production. The chassis has been modified with a wider track, while the suspension has been lowered to provide it with the handling and body control it needs to chase the toughest international crime lords.

Can"t quite stretch...

Can"t quite stretch to a Mercedes SL? Then how about this? The new Renault Twingo II Coupé-Cabriolet claims to be the hard-top convertible to satisfy the most budget-conscious sun-seeker.

Can you believe it?...

Can you believe it? The New Year sales are warming up again, and the shops have bargains galore. However, there are no bargains up for grabs in our car parks. We"re deep into the season of goodwill - the time of year when we should spread some seasonal spirit - but a Dickensian Scrooge has made a nasty comeback in our city council offices. As with many other local authorities, Cherwell District has added another level of complication to parking your motor by introducing meters that force you to enter your registration number before depositing your coins.

Cars like the Citroen...

Cars like the Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Partner and Transit Connect are a common sight for motorists in Europe, but completely alien to drivers in the US.

Citroen is plugging...

Citroen is plugging into hybrid technology for its new C-Crosser, and it hopes the car will have such low CO2 emissions, it will change the public view of off-roaders.

City Car

Climb aboard and see...

Climb aboard and see what itтЂ™s going to be like sitting in VauxhallтЂ™s replacement for the Vectra тЂ“ the new Insignia.

CONVERTIBLES donтЂ™t...

CONVERTIBLES donтЂ™t come much more exclusive than Rolls-RoyceтЂ™s Phantom Drophead Coupé. And with a price tag of ТЈ305,000, itтЂ™s a rare sight on UK roads тЂ“ but thatтЂ™s not enough for one super-rich collector, who has commissioned this unique machine from legendary Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina.

Copper’s tops with latest Micra

Could this be the car...

Could this be the car to reverse Subaru"s declining fortunes in the UK? With like for like sales down almost 60 percent in March, the Japanese firm is certainly hoping so...

Could this be the car...

Could this be the car that finally cements AudiтЂ™s reputation as the worldтЂ™s greatest sports car manufacturer?

Could this be the next...

Could this be the next big thing for Volkswagen? With the firm riding high on the runaway success of the new Scirocco, these pictures might point the way for an ultra-luxurious two-seat coupé for its line-up.

Daylight armed robbery...

Daylight armed robbery – that’s what it seems like. Nearly three grand for a well used 1998 Vauxhall Vectra, a dented Ford Mondeo for чЈ3,250 or an old Vauxhall Omega at чЈ3,450? Surely not! But the price is right on these cars – in fact, they’re a bit of a bargain.

Described by Land Rover...

Described by Land Rover officials as a "technology demonstrator", the car is the company"s first-ever hybrid model. More than that, its skeletal bodywork has been designed to show off the profile of the new Freelander, set to be launched at the British Motor Show in July.

Despite the recent launch...

Despite the recent launch of the second-generation A-Class, the company hopes that the car seen in the mag will break new ground. It will be marketed as a luxury compact MPV, an upmarket alternative to small people carriers from volume manufacturers.

Diesel lovers get a...

Diesel lovers get a trio of options. The entry-level oil-burner will be a 1.4-litre delivering 89bhp, although buyers wanting more performance can plump for a 124bhp 2.0-litre D-4D unit

DonтЂ™t despair if youтЂ™re...

DonтЂ™t despair if youтЂ™re a British Formula One fan missing out on this weekendтЂ™s Silverstone sell-out. Both Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button will be back in action wowing the crowds at next monthтЂ™s spectacular Goodwood Festival of Speed (3-5 July).

Drivers wanting to travel...

Drivers wanting to travel north along the coast from the fjord town of Haugesund to Trondheim should face a 400-mile journey. But anyone using the computer-based MapPoint system - developed by global PC giant Microsoft - will be diverted through seven other European countries, including a ferry ride and a trip through the Channel Tunnel!

Driving school’s offsetting lesson

Due in dealerships next...

Due in dealerships next spring, the production car looks even more aggressive than the concept that debuted at September"s Frankfurt Motor Show. Powered by the same 343bhp, 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine as the M3, the two-seater covers 0-62mph in five seconds on its way to a limited 155mph top speed - making it quicker than Porsche"s new Cayman S. Bulging wheelarches and a brace of twin exhausts separate the flagship from the rest of the line-up, along with a lowered ride height and larger brakes front and rear. The SMG paddleshift transmission will be an option.

Due to hit the UK early...

Due to hit the UK early next year, the Antara"s design borrows heavily from the concept car which wowed crowds at last year"s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Earls Court and the...

Earls Court and the NEC will be transformed into a motoring enthusiast’s heaven for a few days in November, where Jeremy Clarkson and a couple of his rather well-known celebrity friends, host the most spectacular, daring and inventive event in the motoring calendar!

Eighties heroes back in limelight

Ever wondered why the...

Ever wondered why the indicators on your car are orange? Or why, wherever you are in the world, traffic lights are red, amber and green?

Evolution rather than...

Evolution rather than revolution - thatтЂ™s always been PorscheтЂ™s approach with its legendary 911. And the latest facelifted version of the famous rear-engined sportscar is no different.

Fancy sliding around...

Fancy sliding around in a powerful, rear-wheel-drive car and drawing pictures with the black lines your tyres leave behind?

Feast your eyes on the...

Feast your eyes on the fastest and most desirable MINI ever! This is the Speedster тЂ“ a head-turning two-seater drop-top that will combine dramatic looks with sizzling performance. Arriving hot on the heels of the Crossman тЂ“ the firmтЂ™s first 4x4 тЂ“ the stunning roadster will take the famous brand further into uncharted territory.

Feast your eyes on the...

Feast your eyes on the first pictures of the amazing Maybach 62 drop-head, the Landaulet.

First and foremost...

First and foremost, we want to know how your car performs, if it is reliable or prone to breakdowns, if it"s good to drive - in fact, detail of your ownership experience. But in addition, for 2006 we have given our survey a revamp to reflect the changing face of Britain"s roads, delving deeper into the issues that matter to you.

Firstly, it will become...

Firstly, it will become a production car - and secondly, it"s going to be built at the manufacturer"s Sunderland plant.

First to hit the road...

First to hit the road will be a reworked version of the popular TF roadster, due to be launched in mid-2007. Next will be a hard-top version called the TF GT, as well as three family cars based on reworked versions of the Rover 25 and 75 platforms.

Flash, fun and four-wheel...

Flash, fun and four-wheel drive тЂ“ BMW claims to have created an all-new class of cars with the X6, which it is billing as the worldтЂ™s very first Sports Activity Vehicle. And the model has one aim: to be the best-handling, most desirable off-roader on the market.

Following its collapse...

Following its collapse in 2005 and subsequent sale to Chinese firm Nanjing Automotive, MG showed the first signs of recovery with news that a mid-sized car was being lined up for UK production.

Following on from our...

Following on from our spy shots of the disguised model in issue 842, the images reveal all on the car that Peugeot hopes will become the UK"s favourite supermini. However, with fresh versions of big rivals the Fiat Punto and Vauxhall Corsa coming soon, it won"t be easy.

Following the trend...

Following the trend set by the Focus, the Mondeo will have a comprehensive line-up with a version to suit all tastes, needs and budgets. Despite offering improved practicality, the estate gets a sleeker, more stylish design than the model it replaces, with a sloping roofline and expansive glass area.

Ford, Britain"s market...

Ford, Britain"s market leader (in sales, at least), has already done that. And if you look at the sheer size of the GM empire, do you really see it having any loyalty to Vauxhall"s Luton and Ellesmere Port plants? Or the brand, come to that? And could the same rules apply one day in the future to blue oval-owned Jaguar and Land Rover? Only Bill Ford at world HQ in Dearborn, USA, knows for sure. But I know this: the Eastern bloc has taken over from Britain as the number one location in Europe for big, ambitious companies to set up shop if they"re looking for a friendly pro-car welcome, low-tax Governments and capable, willing workers.

Ford fans had plenty...

Ford fans had plenty to cheer at the start of 2008 when we revealed that the firm was gunning for BMW and Audi with its third-generation Focus.

Ford took the wraps...

Ford took the wraps off the Ka at the Paris Motor Show in the most spectacular way possible тЂ“ by revealing a host of special edition models.

Former Formula One world...

Former Formula One world champion McLaren Mercedes lives to fight another day! The Woking-based team narrowly escaped serious sanctions after the FIAтЂ™s World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) found it guilty of bringing the sport into disrepute.

Four decades after it...

Four decades after it redefined the movie car chase, Ford’s Mustang Bullitt is back – sportier and more powerful than ever.

Free of the black disguise...

Free of the black disguise tape which kept prototypes away from prying eyes, the new roadster can be seen in all its glory for the first time. And it proves that those "baby SLR" supercar looks are for real! Building on the success of the current car, the new SLK aims to appeal to enthusiastic drivers with an all-new chassis and more masculine looks. But it will still retain the qualities which made the model a hit, including an improved version of the Varioroof folding metal hard-top.

From the front, the...

From the front, the Tender - which we previewed back in issue 826 - looks like a standard MINI, but it"s actually 72cm longer. There is no roof, and the stylists have done away with the conventional doors, too. Instead, the model features a Jeep-style cut-out in either side.

Get ready for Formula...

Get ready for Formula One fever! Ferrari has kicked off the forthcoming season by being the first team to pull the wraps of its 2009 grand prix challenger.

Given that we can pay...

Given that we can pay anywhere between about ?7,000 and ?30,000 for a standard family vehicle (or up to ?850,000 for a Bugatti Veyron), that’s a fair slice of our income, savings or borrowings.

Guesses about the production...

Guesses about the production mule’s real identity were varied, with suggestions ranging from a small Bugatti to a Bentley-badged rival to the Ferrari F430. A new Audi A7 coupé was hinted at, and there was even mention of a possible Volkswagen supercar!

Here are a few names...

Here are a few names that have come up in the press over the last week or two: Tony Blair, Charles Clarke, Patricia Hewitt, Neil Kinnock and John Prescott. I"ve met them all on a personal, one-to-one level.

Here are great new pictures...

Here are great new pictures of the scorching Pagani Zonda replacement. We spotted the Italian supercar as it took a breather from testing.

Here are the pictures...

Here are the pictures that prove тЂ3тЂ™ is the magic number at Mazda. This is the firmтЂ™s all-new Ford Focus rival, which will be revealed in saloon guise for the first time at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November.

Here’s a new car...

Here’s a new car with a difference – this Audi is a convertible off-roader!

Here’s a supercar...

Here’s a supercar that will ease your conscience. Called the Karma, the eco-friendly machine was unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show by US maker Fisker Automotive.

Here’s a Suzuki...

Here’s a Suzuki with a difference! Unveiled at last week’s LA show and inspired by California’s famous surfing culture, it’s called the Makai.

Here’s a top-secret...

Here’s a top-secret Peugeot you’re not supposed to see until late next year! This is the all-new 3008 off-roader, and it promises to be the most car-like SUV yet.

Here"s our first official...

Here"s our first official look at the small car that opens a big new chapter for Citroen тЂ“ and whatтЂ™s more, the line-up will be headed by a hot 150bhp 1.6-litre turbocharged version.

Here"s proof that VW...

Here"s proof that VW has seen the Lite! YouтЂ™re looking at the worldтЂ™s most fuel-efficient four-seater тЂ“ a forward-thinking concept as revolutionary as the original Beetle. Called the Up! Lite because of its amazingly low kerbweight, it wowed visitors at this weekтЂ™s LA Motor Show.

Here"s your chance to...

Here"s your chance to decide, as we reveal the look of the revamped supermini, which designers at the firm are currently putting the finishing touches to.

HereтЂ™s a new Audi...

HereтЂ™s a new Audi thatтЂ™s set to make a name for itself... via the back door. Our picture gives a first glimpse of the

HereтЂ™s a new Golf...

HereтЂ™s a new Golf with every reason to be blue!

HereтЂ™s the picture...

HereтЂ™s the picture that proves PeugeotтЂ™s all-new 408 is purring into production! The undisguised black Lion was caught out in the open by our spies, giving the best indication yet of how the firmтЂ™s Ford Mondeo and Vauxhall Insignia rival will look when it hits UK showrooms in 2010.

He"s well aware that...

He"s well aware that if he doesn"t stop getting nicked for speeding, he could soon face a driving ban which would rob him of his much loved Italian sports car. It"s put to him by a marvellously mischievous Jeremy Clarkson on TV that because he"s got such a shameful driving record, he simply can"t afford to receive any more endorsements and he might therefore like to consider blaming his wife for his driving-related crimes by conveniently "shovelling" some points on to her currently clean licence.

Honda might have pulled...

Honda might have pulled out of Formula 1 and shelved its much hyped 600hp V10-powered NSX in the wake of the financial crisis, but the company hasnтЂ™t forgotten its sporty roots. One look at the concepts for this yearтЂ™s Tokyo Auto Salon (Jan 9-11) clear that query up.

How do we know? Well...

How do we know? Well, look closely at the mag"s pictures and you can clearly see extended wheelarches, wider front and rear tracks plus a taller ride height - indications that the test mule is running the next-generation car"s new chassis.

How far can you go on...

How far can you go on a full tank? Most of us think weтЂ™re lucky to get more than 300 miles from a single fill-up тЂ“ but thatтЂ™s not enough to satisfy Volvo.

If a decade ago somebody...

If a decade ago somebody predicted UK consumers would buy 100,864 new Audis but only 200 MG

If I was asked to nominate...

If I was asked to nominate the most damning, scary and revealing motor industry article I"ve read all year, it would be the one my trembling hands tore from a leading American business magazine a little over a week ago. Among other things, the story said that Ford was in a mess. It"s hurting like never before. Unless things change big time, it is going down the tubes. And there"s more. Much more. At the wheel of the enterprise that has just lost .8billion (ВЈ3billion) in its last, dismal three-month accounting period, is Alan Mulally, whose corporation is forecast to burn another bn (ВЈ1.6bn) cash in the next quarter.

If the new Evo X isn"t...

If the new Evo X isn"t exciting enough for you, then this could be the answer. Called the Concept-RA, it features rakish coupe styling, a powerful diesel motor and grippy all-wheel drive chassis.

If you have a garage...

If you have a garage, it’s obviously the safest place to store your car. But just because your vehicle is out of sight doesn’t mean it’s out of a thief’s mind. The locks on up-and-over doors are notoriously weak, and won’t prove much of a barrier to a determined criminal.

If you own a car, then...

If you own a car, then the outcome of the elections for London mayor will no doubtч have an impact on you wallet. So we take a look at the candidates and see how their transport policies could effect you.

If you’re buying...

If you’re buying a classic car and don’t want to spend your weekends clutching the spanners, you need to get a good one. And for little more than ?3,000 you can buy a mint Fiat 500. For your money you’ll have one of the cutest cars ever made and a motoring legend all of your own.

If you’re not...

If you’re not mechanically minded, getting your car serviced can be worrying. Not only is it costly and time-consuming to arrange, but there’s the added fear of being ripped off. Most motorists will have a servicing horror story. So what can you do to avoid a nasty experience of your own? Well, there are a number of steps you can take – although firstly you will need to decide where you’re going to get the work carried out.

If you’re thinking...

If you’re thinking about buying a new car, read the figures below very carefully! They show the best and worst depreciating vehicles of 2007.

If you think a Lamborghini...

If you think a Lamborghini or Ferrari is a head-turner, you’ll love this exciting new machine. Called the MC1, it’s just over 4.5 metres long, features a futuristic-looking swooping body and rides on 20-inch alloys at the front, with 21-inch rims at the rear.

If you want to buy an...

If you want to buy an environmentally friendly new car, be prepared to wait for it! Huge demand for clean, green models means makers can’t build them quick enough, with customers facing up to nine-month delays for the likes of VW’s Polo Bluemotion.

I get in a trance-like...

I get in a trance-like state when racing a real car. I want to understand what makes me feel like that and feed it back into Gran Turismo 5

Ignore the decals and...

Ignore the decals and Recaro sports seats on this race series MINI, and what have you got? The closest thing yet to official pictures of the John Cooчper Works edition of the new MkII car.

I have been working...

I have been working my socks off on an exciting new programme that lifts the lid on the tricks car salesmen use. It"s called Autotrader, and is essentially the motoring equivalent of the Penn and Teller Show. But instead of revealing how magic tricks work, with the help of my fully kitted out dealership - complete with garage, showroom and even genuine punters - I explain how not to get stitched up when buying or selling a motor.

I have never had such...

I have never had such a bad day, but been so delighted after. I am very proud to win the BTCC.

In an exclusive interview...

In an exclusive interview with Auto Express, Land Rover managing director Matthew Taylor said: "There"s nothing firm on the drawing board, but one of the things I would like to see from the company is a smaller machine, targeted at the growing sector of compact SUVs in the sub-Freelander market.

In an unheard of move...

In an unheard of move, the company has allowed journalists to sample pre-production versions of the crucial new model to ensure its driving dynamics are talked about as much as its looks.

In a shock move, SEAT...

In a shock move, SEAT has announced it will abandon the BTCC at the end of the year. After winning the title in 2006 and the Team prize in 2007, the Spanish squad has decided to call time on the British tin-top series, ending five years of involvement.

In a world first, Nissan...

In a world first, Nissan has developed a special coating that means the end for minor scrapes, keeping bodywork in showroom condition. Eager to show off the new paint and other futuristic technology - including a very clever parking system - the Japanese manufacturer invited Auto Express to its Oppama Technical Centre in Tokyo.

Insiders at the VW-owned...

Insiders at the VW-owned company have been forced to admit that they are working on a 4x4 version of the Altea, after our spies snapped shots (inside this week"s mag) of a top-secret prototype.

Inspired by the Sixties"...

Inspired by the Sixties" classic, the 155mph coupнѓ© replaces the current nine-year-old model. Challenging the Porsche 911 and the V8 Vantage from sister firm Aston Martin, the car will be available from January with a sub-н‚бЈ60,000 price tag - that"s н‚бЈ20,000 less than the Aston. Has Jaguar created a bargain, or is the new XK a class below its Ford family rival?

In the first of two...

In the first of two shock scoops about one car giant this week, Auto Express can exclusively uncover exчciчting plans by BMW to bring back one of Britain’s best-loved marques – Triumph is on to a winner!

I’m not quite...

I’m not quite sure why the 7th of the 7th, 2007 was any more of a special date than 5/5/05 or 6/6/06, but we were told we would all remember where we were on that date more than any other – and for a change, that might be right! My only other memory of seven being a lucky number came from growing up watching my heroes, such as Stirling Moss. For a reason I have long forgotten, Moss always preferred to race with that number. Good luck perhaps?

I’ve been a TV...

I’ve been a TV presenter for more than 10 years, and have worked on a wide range of motoring programmes. But there’s one question I get asked more than any other by fans. No, it isn’t: “Do you use fake tan?” – that’s the second most common. Rather, it’s: “What’s the best second-hand car to buy?” And you know what, it’s a tricky one to answer – even for an expert like me.

It looks as though motorists...

It looks as though motorists are finally winning the fuel bill war!

It looks like something...

It looks like something from a Mad Max film, but forget the Australian outback – as this is an ideal companion on Britain’s city streets and motorways.

It looks like the postal...

It looks like the postal strike might not be bad news for everyone. Auto Express has discovered that thousands of motorists could get off speed camera convictions thanks to the mail delays.

I told the VW executive...

I told the VW executive that the ВЈ4,000 Up! was so brilliant I would buy one. What the hell, IрЂ™ll take two... one for each foot!рЂЭ

It’s a match that...

It’s a match that could have been made in heaven! Italian manufacturer Alfa Romeo has joined forces with British motorsport specialist Prodrive to produce a thrilling new version of the Brera, badged simply Brera S.

It’s a Nissan...

It’s a Nissan, but not as you know it. The model pictured on the right is the Japanese firm’s South American market Versa – and US giant Chrysler wants to develop a supermini using a rebadged evolution of this machine. While it’s yet to be confirmed whether this will come here, Auto Express can reveal it spells the end of Chrysler’s project to join forces with Chinese brand Chery.