Autotuning

According to our spies...

According to our spies, Vauxhall"s VXR performance brand is putting the final touches to a diesel-powered version of the range-topping Astra.

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.

ALFA Romeo turned glamour...

ALFA Romeo turned glamour and style up to the max with the show debut of the landmark MiTo.

Among the н‚бЈ24.6million...

Among the н‚бЈ24.6million of stolen cars recovered, BMWs were the thieves" top choice. Mercedes, Porsche, Audi and Land Rover also figured on the company"s success list. A huge 90 per cent of the Porsches found had been taken after the keys were stolen.

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.

As part of a drive to...

As part of a drive to attract young customers, the maker hopes to give buyers the option of putting a huge picture of their family or friends, or a design of their choice, on the lid of its next Fabia hatch. Skoda already plans to offer a white roof for the new car, and is displaying a Fabia with a silver top and matching wing mirrors at the Geneva Motor Show.

A spokesman for the...

A spokesman for the company confirmed to Auto Express: "There are people working on high-revving diesel engines at the moment, and I can see us using one in the MX-5."

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 new model"s rear is characterised by large light clusters and aggressive cooling vents. A small lip spoiler and centrally mounted twin exhaust pipes add to the striking look, while the pictures also show the sports car has a practical hatchback too.

At the front, there"s...

At the front, there"s a reprofiled nose with a chrome-framed eggcrate grille, larger badge and fresh lights complete with a full-length air intake. The rear features a new bumper, LED tail-lights and reworked exhausts.

Auto Express can reveal...

Auto Express can reveal Cadillac’s upcoming CTS-V has recorded a blistering lap of 7:59.32 while undergoing final testing at the Nurburgring. The time is the fastest ever publicly documented by a production Saloon around the circuit.

Auto Express has got...

Auto Express has got its hands on the clearest images yet of the eagerly anticipated Renault Clio III.

Auto Express has learned...

Auto Express has learned that extensive testing involving the existing car is taking place around the firm"s factory in Swindon, Wiltshire. Sources have told us there could be changes on the way for the hot hatch.

Auto Express was first...

Auto Express was first to break the news of plans for a more practical Qashqai – and now Nissan has released the first official pictures of its new Qashqai+2.

AutoRoute 2007 holds...

AutoRoute 2007 holds the edge over standalone systems and online route finders. Not only can it be used in the car with a GPS aerial (чЈ99.99 including the software), or at a wireч­less Internet ‘hot spot’ location, but you can also rig it up at home or in the office to plan routes.

Bosses say they expect...

Bosses say they expect this RX-8-style coupé will be in production by the end of the next decade, and according to the firm"s new design director Laurens van den Acker, it sums up the path its styling experts are taking, too.

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.

Budget brand Proton...

Budget brand Proton has unveiled a bold new Persona, Auto Express can reveal. And this is the first official picture of the car, which was launched in Malaysia last week.

Built with the backing...

Built with the backing of Audi, the hardcore road-legal machine was origч­inally tipped to wear the famous four-ringed badge. But instead, it will cash in on the thrill-seeking image of the Austrian motorbike specialist. Under the bonnet is the 2.0-litre TFSI turbocharged powerplant used in Audi"s S3. This drives the rear wheels, and with the KTM tipping the scales at less than 700kg, it promises a 0-62mph sprint time of under four seconds.

But as the pictures...

But as the pictures in this week"s mag - taken with a long lens - show, that"s clearly not the case. And while the show car"s glass roof panels and one-piece tailgate won"t make production, fans of the original design won"t be disappointed.

But the Scot’s...

But the Scot’s advantage was slashed from 47 to 34 points with only six rounds remaining, as closest rival Scott Dixon won his second race in a row. The Kiwi pole-sitter held off Franchitti and Danica Patrick to cross the line a couple of seconds ahead in an event that had been postponed from Saturday eve?ning because of rain in Tennessee.

Citroen ace Sebastien...

Citroen ace Sebastien Loeb is on course to claim a record fifth world crown, following a dramatic win on Rally New Zealand. The leading factory Fords struck trouble while in the lead, enabling the Frenchman to secure victory ahead of his team-mate Dani Sordo on the penultimate stage. Pacesetter Mikko Hirvonen suffered a puncture and a spin, relegating him to third. His fellow Ford driver Jari-Matti Latvala was on course for a second-place finish when his carтЂ™s radiator was damaged on a rock, ending the event for him.

Click the links for...

Click the links for all the latest video features live from the Paris Motor Show, brought to you by our team of expert reporters.

Codenamed Z17, the show...

Codenamed Z17, the show car"s tight proportions and unusually shaped glass areas are reminiscent of the current Twingo which, although a massive hit on the Continent, was never officially imported into Britain.

Desч­igned for smartphones...

Desч­igned for smartphones, BlackBerrys and PDAs, the TrafficTV software shows delays across the UK using TrafficMaster data.

Described as a five-door...

Described as a five-door family car for driving enthusiasts, it will be aimed at busy parents on a limited budget. Prices are not confirmed, but insiders have revealed it will start at around н‚бЈ10,000. The Note is part of Nissan"s three-car plan to replace the Almera hatch. Also on the way is the Qashqai SUV, plus a sporty coupнѓ©.

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.

Electric cars will soon...

Electric cars will soon sport standardised plug sockets тЂ“ but whose version will be picked? European and US car firms are set to battle it out.

Extra kit available for new Impreza

Extra kit available for new Impreza

Fans of rallying can...

Fans of rallying can breathe a sigh of relief: the world championship will be coming to Britain in October after all.

Feast your eyes on Ferrari"s...

Feast your eyes on Ferrari"s all-new F430 replacement! Spied being rolled onto the back of a truck in Italy, these pictures show the Prancing Horse"s new entry-level model тЂ“ the F450.

Feast your eyes on Ferrari"s...

Feast your eyes on Ferrari"s all-new F430 replacement! Spied being rolled onto the back of a truck in Italy, these pictures show the Prancing Horse"s new entry-level model тЂ“ the F450.

Feast your eyes on the...

Feast your eyes on the ultimate Caterham. This is the new Superlight R500 – and it can cover 0-60mph in only 2.9 seconds!

Featuring round headlights...

Featuring round headlights and soft, Fifties-style curves, the LC looks as if it"s driven straight out of a Noddy cartoon. And the cute packaging continues in-side, with bright red tartan-checked cloth seating and a retro-look dashboard.

Following the positive...

Following the positive feedback received after the MX Sportif concept debuted at 2003"s Geneva Motor Show, the project to inject some performance sparkle into the family hatch has been given the green light. Although this prototype has very few visual modifications, the production version will feature a more striking bodykit, while still offering greater subtlety than some rivals.

Ford has today announced...

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

Ford is going back to...

Ford is going back to black as it prepares to bid farewell to the current-generation Fiesta.

Ford"s MPV was named...

Ford"s MPV was named Auto 1 Champion of Europe at a glittering Geneva gala, which was attended by bosses of all the major marques. The S-MAX made the final after being nominated by Auto Express readers in our poll last November. It then went forward to a European shoot-out against the other top cars in its class, before progressing to the final against five other sector champs.

Franchised dealers have...

Franchised dealers have a reputation for charging more than independent garages, but a new price promise at VW is set to change that.

FROM Auto Express to...

FROM Auto Express to sporty excess! This open-topped supercar has been unveiled by ultra-exclusive Italian maker Bizzarrini тЂ“ and itтЂ™s designed by someone who used to work for this magazine.

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.

Get ready for another...

Get ready for another shake-up in the family hatchback market тЂ“ this time from Peugeot.

Goodbye Fiesta –...

Goodbye Fiesta – Hello Verve! These exclusive pictures show the face of Ford’s new small car. We revealed the fiesta.html" target="_self">first sketches of the B-Car Concept in this week’s magazine. However, the reality is even more stunning.

Hailed as the solution...

Hailed as the solution to city gridlock, networks have been introduced in Manchester, Nottingham, Croydon and Wolverhampton, as well as other areas. But the Supertram service in Sheffield saw 53 accidents between its opening in August 1994 and January 1997. They resulted in 77 casualties, including two deaths.

Here’s one show...

Here’s one show car that isn’t afraid to get its wheels dirty! Take a look at the Daihatsu Mud Master-C, which will debut at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month.

Here"s a cab that you...

Here"s a cab that you may struggle to follow! Called the Geely TX4 it"s a racy version of the traditional black Taxi seen everyday on the streets of London.

Here"s a cool new city...

Here"s a cool new city car set to create a buzz! ItтЂ™s the electric-powered B0 тЂ“ or B-Zero тЂ“ and itтЂ™s the work of legendary Italian style house Pininfarina.

HereтЂ™s a search and...

HereтЂ™s a search and rescue vehicle that will pick-up a few new customers for Volkswagen. This is the Pickup concept, which debuted at the IAA commercial vehicles show in Hanover, Germany.

High design is an expensive...

High design is an expensive commodity тЂ“ as JabraтЂ™s latest JX20 Pura headset proves. The Bluetooth hands-free kit costs ТЈ99.99, and was created by Danish industrial designer Jacob Jensen to offer phone users even more style behind the wheel. An extravagant feel is evident as soon as you open the box тЂ“ from the sleek desk stand to the pretentious necklace fitting. While this allows you to wear the Pura as jewellery, we donтЂ™t expect many will sport it around their neck on a night out.

Honda has announced...

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

How much would you pay...

How much would you pay for the ultimate Morgan? While the standard Aero 8 costs чЈ62,545, the sports car has been taken to the max and given a staggering чЈ110,450 price tag.

"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."

In response to competition...

In response to competition from Bugatti"s Veyron, the German firm has created its ultimate driver"s model - the SLR 722 Edition. Paying homage to the classic Mercedes 300 SLR driven by Stirling Moss at the Mille Miglia race in 1955, the 722 tag refers to the number on the famous car.

IS BMW getting ready...

IS BMW getting ready to release a hardcore, CSL-badged M3? As these

It arrived in 1966...

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

It comes preloaded with...

It comes preloaded with UK and Ireland mapping, and your route will be easy to fol­low on the 3.5-inch bird’s eye view screen. There’s a clever SmartDetour feature, which enables owners to take an alternative route around jams, while the database is claimed to offer two million points of interest.

It could be - after...

It could be - after Nanjing Automobile Group revealed ambitious plans to launch four MG models, including a completely new saloon and hatchback.

It’s no bigger...

It’s no bigger than a mobile phone, so slips easily into your pocket and is very light. The 2.7-inch colour touchscreen is a little dull in bright sunlight, and can be difficult to read, while you have to be accurate with your finger inputs. But we like the Navteq navigation software, which finds your destination quickly.

It’s official...

It’s official – Ford’s Verve SUV is on the way. Auto Express first broke the news of the blue oval’s plans to build an all-road version of its next-generation Fiesta.

It"s been a long time...

It"s been a long time coming, and now it"s here, few will disagree that Maserati"s long-awaited new Coupé has been well worth the wait. Take a look at the first pictures of Italy"s latest rival to the Porsche 911: the Maserati GranTurismo.

It"s nip-and-tuck time...

It"s nip-and-tuck time for the Mazda 6! These are the first images of Japanese-specification versions of the company"s Ford Mondeo rivalling family car.

ItтЂ™s one of the freshest...

ItтЂ™s one of the freshest and most attractive cars on the road, but believe it or not, the Jaguar XK is already approaching middle age. So, to ensure it maintains its showroom appeal, new owner Tata has decided the time has come for a facelift.

ItтЂ™s the news that...

ItтЂ™s the news that all Evo X fans have been waiting for тЂ“ Mitsubishi will be turning the wick up on the latest incarnation of its four-wheel drive super saloon with a range topping FQ400 version.

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."

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.

Keeping children entertained...

Keeping children entertained in the car used to involve playing games of I Spy or Travel Cluedo. But now, youngsters expect more hi-tech solutions.

Kia is shining a ray...

Kia is shining a ray of light on the Chicago Show! The Korean manufacturer has released this teaser illustration of an all-new concept set to debut at the Chicago Motor Show next month.

Lamborghini has a new...

Lamborghini has a new Murcielago under development, Auto Express has learned.

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.

Making a surprise debut...

Making a surprise debut on a wet Tsukuba race track near Tokyo, ahead of its unveiling next month, the newcomer completed three fast laps before disappearing from view. Sources said the car was undergoing its final phases of testing and running back-to-back with the saloon to establish a series of quick lap times for comparison.

Malaysian manufacturer...

Malaysian manufacturer Proton has stuck the boot in! The company has revealed an all-new saloon version of its Gen-2 family hatch.

Mazda"s CX-7 SUV is...

Mazda"s CX-7 SUV is set to ditch its highly polluting petrol engine for a diesel powerplant featuring groundbreaking exhaust-cleaning technology.

Meanwhile, another Essex...

Meanwhile, another Essex dealership has become the first-ever independent outlet to be awarded the brand new BSI Kitemark for garages. Ongar Bridge Motor Company is the third site in the UK to gain the fledgling seal of approval.

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.

Meet the next great...

Meet the next great American hero! After all the renderings, spyshots and speculation the Devon GTX has finally broken cover at the Pebble Beach Concours dтЂ™Elegance.

Meet the performance...

Meet the performance coupe thatтЂ™s got BMWтЂ™s M3 worried. These are the best shots yet of AudiтЂ™s upcoming RS5 flagship, which weтЂ™ve spied testing at high speed on the Nurburgring circuit in Germany.

Meet VauxhallтЂ™s new...

Meet VauxhallтЂ™s new flexible friend! The Insignia has been given a green makeover, with the launch of the ecoFLEX.

Michael Blaze, managing...

Michael Blaze, managing director of the firm from Brackley, North-ants, said: "We have used our specialist knowledge to produce a car along the same design principles. The EOS"s shape has been created with the latest aerodynamic modelling technology to ensure it will be stable at high speeds."

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.

Money is tight for most...

Money is tight for most car buyers right now, but could this MINI Clubman be the One for you? ItтЂ™s the new penny-pinching entry-level model and it boasts a 95bhp 1.4-litre engine thatтЂ™s capable of returning 52.3mpg combined.

More motorists than...

More motorists than ever are using their mobile phones illegally while driving, an Auto Express investigation has revealed. Since February 2007, anyone caught breaking the law has faced a чЈ60 fine and three penalty points on their licence. Back then, we hit the streets during morning rush hour and spotted four per cent of drivers flouting the rules. Now, a year on, we repeated the study in the same place at the same time, but on this occasion found that five per cent of the 1,000 cars we checked were being driven by someone using their handset at the wheel.

Nearly two million breakdowns...

Nearly two million breakdowns a year - one in every five nationwide - are caused by simple human error or flat tyres, and driving a new or unfamiliar car can increase the risk of self-inflicted breakdowns.

New cars are nearly...

New cars are nearly 13 per cent more expensive than three years ago. In 2003, the average price of a Ford Focus was чЈ14,192, but in 2006 this has risen to чЈ15,938. That’s a jump of чЈ1,746, which works out to six times the rate of inflation.

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.

Not content with the...

Not content with the Yaris supermini and Aygo city car, the Japanese firm has let slip that it will launch an even smaller urban runaround by the end of the decade.

Now you can travel first...

Now you can travel first class in the latest version of Mercedes’ Viano.

ONLINE forecourts are...

ONLINE forecourts are a popular way to buy a new car, yet 80 per cent of drivers say you still can’t beat a dealer visit. The RAC Foundation found that shoppers wanted to “touch and feel” vehicles before they handed over any money.

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 amazing scoop pictures...

Our amazing scoop pictures show how the Audi range is set to develop тЂ“ and hereтЂ™s its crowning glory. These images show one designerтЂ™s take on how a new R10 тЂ“ a V10-engined flagship supercar тЂ“ could look.

Our picture shows how...

Our picture shows how the undisguised V10 hybrid prototype coupнѓ© will look. If the company, based in Daventry, Northants, can secure funding, the 2+2 will go on sale next year costing around н‚бЈ35,000. A spokeswoman said: "We are in discussions with interested parties at the moment." The 2.1-litre petrol powerplant was designed in-house, and works in tandem with an electric motor to provide 188bhp. The engine has already undergone independent testing at Millbrook Proving Ground, Bedfordshire, where insiders tell us it exceeded Connaught"s expectations.

Our team of committed...

Our team of committed spy photographers recently scooped the all-new Mazda 2 undergoing testing (Issue 928). The next-generation supermini will adopt sleek and fresh styling – unlike the current design, which is tall and boxy in comparison. But looks aren’t everything, because the existing 2 still makes an extremely practical used buy.

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 is now favourite...

Renault is now favourite to win the services of Kimi Raikkonen to replace McLaren-bound Fernando Alonso.

Snapped by an Auto Express...

Snapped by an Auto Express reader, the car was turning off the M4 towards the Honda plant in Swindon, Wilt- shire. The newcomer will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in September, and is a replacement for the slow-selling Stream. It will get a new name and borrows styling ideas from the Bulldog concept unveiled at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show.

Some bright spark has...

Some bright spark has come up with a great idea for disused petrol stations тЂ“ turn them into electric car charging centres!

Staying legal behind...

Staying legal behind the wheel is essential, and with this new hands-free kit it is easy to avoid the temptation of grabbing a ringing mobile when driving. The iO Talk1 will even play MP3 music from your phone or iPod.

Swedish firm Volvo has...

Swedish firm Volvo has revealed the first details and prices of its eagerly anticipated XC60 SUV.

Take a look at the best...

Take a look at the best pictures yet of Vauxhall"s hottest ever Insignia! This is the high performance VXR version, which goes on sale before the end of the year packing a 325bhp 2.8-litre V6 turbocharged engine.

Taking over from the...

Taking over from the recently discontinued 626bhp SLR at the top of the range, it features a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine churning out 670bhp and 1,000Nm of torque.

Technicians at Fiat...

Technicians at Fiat are employing world-leading robotic technology to perfect the company"s cabin designs, and believe this sophisticated "exoskeleton" (see image) will allow them to explore the interiors of vehicles which exist only in virtual reality. In order to work the arm, a volunteer sits in a simulator which generates a 3D illusion of the inside of the new car.

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 American tuning...

The American tuning firm Saleen has unveiled a new supercar, aimed at the likes of the Porsche 911 and Audi R8.

The biggest makeover...

The biggest makeover is to the Liana, which has had its looks freshened up. Exterior changes include a new two-bar grille with updated "S" logo, body-coloured side trim and bumper corner mouldings. Heated electric mirrors have also been added. Inside, the model gets an updated facia with metallic silver accents on the centre console, air vent surrounds and window switches on the doors. Steering wheel-mounted audio controls, plus a new digital clock and outside temperature gauge built into the dash top, complete the look. The entry-level Liana GL starts at н‚бЈ8,995, while the GLX model costs н‚бЈ9,995.

The blue Porsche 911...

The blue Porsche 911 and red stock car are two cute "real-life" versions of a pair of characters in the new motion picture, which is based around a gang of talking cars who get caught up in a whirlwind adventure. Featuring the celebrity voices of Owen Wilson (Starsky & Hutch), Bonnie Hunt (The Green Mile) and legendary actor Paul Newman, the computer-animated film will have its US premiere on 26 May.

The bold styling is...

The bold styling is a statement of SuzukiтЂ™s intention to move upmarket

The British motor industry...

The British motor industry has received another hammer blow, with new CO2-based showroom taxes set to hit models from prestige UK marques.

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 company will first...

The company will first base itself at a temporary location, where an initial limited run of 100 models is expected to be built towards the end of 2007

The Corsa is getting...

The Corsa is getting cleaner! This new hybrid version of the top-seller is the most economical Vauxhall superч­mini ever built – and it’s coming to a showroom near you next year.

The crowds swarmed around...

The crowds swarmed around ChryslerтЂ™s press conference at Detroit, eager to see if the fallen giant would come out fighting. And it didnтЂ™t disappoint.

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 duo join the standard...

The duo join the standard 911 Cabriolet line-up and use the same all-wheel-drive technology as the recently unveiled Carrera 4 and 4S coupнѓ©s. It"s been further refined and directs between five and 40 per cent of the power to the cars" front wheels in slippery conditions.

The E-Class is open...

The E-Class is open for business! These are the best shots yet of MercedesтЂ™ new drop-top, shown with the roof stowed for the first time. But thatтЂ™s not all thatтЂ™s intriguing about these exclusive snaps тЂ“ a retractable wind deflector can be clearly seen at the top of the windscreen тЂ“ a first for a car of this type.

THE electric-powered...

THE electric-powered Swiss army knife of the motoring world has just got a little bit easier on the pocket!

The Ferrari empire is...

The Ferrari empire is expanding! These are the first official shots of the gargantuan Ferrari World theme park in Abu Dhabi. Situated adjacent to the Yas Marina circuit тЂ“ host to last weekendтЂ™s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix тЂ“ the giant roof has only just been put in place and boasts the largest Ferrari logo ever created at 66-metres across.

The firm is currently...

The firm is currently testing an ‘i’ with electric technology codenamed MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle). It uses a lithium ion battery pack and rear-mounted high-torque powerplant capable of delivering an 80mph maximum speed. The electric ‘i’ should be able to travel up to 100 miles on a single charge from a standard home socket.

The first all new MG...

The first all new MG has finally rolled off the production lines at the

The first half of the...

The first half of the ring-bound A4 offering is a road atlas with a scale of three-and-a-half miles per inch. Maps are bright and easy to read, but the low-grade paper tears easily. The level of data is adequate and includes tourist attractions – however, these seem to have been added only where there is room.

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 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 heat is on at SEAT...

The heat is on at SEAT. Bosses at the Spanish firm have announced they will unveil fiery performance versions of the Ibiza supermini and Leon hatch at next monthтЂ™s Barcelona Motor Show.

The Japч­anese firm"s...

The Japч­anese firm"s upmarket Infiniti brand will be launched in the UK in autumn 2008, and these sketches hint at two models that will make up part of the range.

The Korean-built four-door...

The Korean-built four-door aims to fill the gap left by the disappearance of the Ford Scorpio and Vaux­hall Omega. It will take its power from a choice of 2.0-litre six-cylinder engines, with the petrol car deliver­ing 140bhp and the diesel 150bhp. These will be mated to six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes.

The latest Volkswagen...

The latest Volkswagen Golf GTI has plenty of grip – and that’s just from its seats! As this picture shows, the upholstery of the new Pirelli model features a rubber tread pattern to hold you firmly in place.

The maddest, baddest...

The maddest, baddest Corsa ever? Having only just launched the standard car, Vauxhall is already busy putting the finishing touches to this bruiser of a flagship - which aims to leave the competition standing!

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 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 Meriva is baring...

The Meriva is baring all! Our spies have captured the best shots yet of Vauxhall"s compact MPV - the car that"s doing everything it can to stand out from the competition.

The Mini Coyote GPS...

The Mini Coyote GPS speed camera locator has been a hit in France, and now itтЂ™s here. You get dash and visor mounts, although the unit is hard to view with the latter. The locator runs off the 12V socket or an internal battery, which claims eight hoursтЂ™ operation.

The new Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet...

The new Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet is set to make its UK debut at the London International Motor Show this July.

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.

The pair have re-signed...

The pair have re-signed for 2008 after being heaped with praise by team boss Nick Fry for the way they have coped with the awful RA107 car. But once again, they had a disappointing race. Button crashed early on and Barrichello finished 11th.

The Prius is getting...

The Prius is getting a younger brother! Toyota has taken the wraps off the FT-CH Concept in Detroit тЂ“ a smaller and cheaper alternative to the groundbreaking Prius.

The PS182KB packs an...

The PS182KB packs an impressive 18V punch, and this power is neatly controlled by the collar behind the chuck. While you still get the usual progressive trigger, the collar varies the force the drill can apply – ideal for spinning up small fasteners like trim screws without damaging the heads.

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.

These exclusive shots...

These exclusive shots are the first to show how close the SAIC Motor Corporation is to reintroducing a special evolution of the popular 75, with the help of British engineers from Ricardo. This long-wheelbase version, developed in the UK and set to go into production in east China, is virtually identical to the car which was built at Longbridge until April 2005.

These shots show how...

These shots show how designers have fitted bigger bumpers, multi-lens headlamps and a larger grille to help give the front end of the 2, badged Demio in its homeland, a more aggressive appearance. This look is exaggerated on high-spec models by the addition of a deeper front splitter with integrated foglights.

The shots reveal the...

The shots reveal the new-look nose, which is inspired by the 9X concept first shown at the German exhibition four years ago. The angular lines are far more aggressive than the current model"s, but designers have not gone overboard with the revisions, in order to avoid alienating conservative buyers.

The stars were out in...

The stars were out in force as the Los Angeles Motor Show opened its doors last week тЂ“ and topping the bill was HondaтЂ™s radical vision of a futuristic city car, the Personal-Neo Urban Transport, or P-NUT for short.

The travelling event...

The travelling event, which opened with a bang last week at Birmingham"s NEC and is moving on this week to Earls Court in London, has been wowing crowds with its blend of new cars, heart-stopping stage shows and up-close vehicle displays.

The two-seater Caterham...

The two-seater Caterham rival is on display at this week’s Autosport Show at the NEC in Birmingham. It’s finished in optional Gleaming White for its first public outing in Britain. But if you want to buy one, you face joining the back of a lengthy queue.

The UK is getting ready...

The UK is getting ready to go "to Infiniti and beyond" as Nissan"s luxury car brand opens its first showroom in the UK.

The updated version...

The updated version of the Japч­anese firm"s Ford C-MAX rival will arrive first. Bringing the MPV into line with the new Auris hatch, the Corolla Verso"s makeover includes a fresh headlamp design and a new look for the front bumper.

The wraps have come...

The wraps have come off the ultimate Aston Martin. This stunning machine is an all-new supercar from the famous British firm that will go on sale late next year, taking the company into uncharted territory carrying a ВЈ1.2million price tag and power from a 7.0-litre V12 engine.

Things are hotting up...

Things are hotting up in Spain! Our secret snappers have caught the first undisguised examples of the scorching new SEAT Ibiza FR out testing.

This copycat X5 could...

This copycat X5 could prompt top brass at BMW and Smart to form an unlikely double act. But rather than joining forces to build new cars, they’re actually plotting to get rival models stopped!

This follows research...

This follows research which indicated only four per cent of drivers knew that it made value-for-money cars such as the Captiva and Matiz.

This is Ford"s new oil-burning...

This is Ford"s new oil-burning Mondeo ST TDCi - but bizarrely, considering its core market, its diesel engine will not comply with Euro IV emissions rules until 2005, leaving company drivers facing a three per cent tax penalty.

This is the GS Zagato...

This is the GS Zagato, created by the renowned coachbuilder based in Milan. Inspired by the Maserati A6G Zagato of the Fifties, it boasts swooping aluminium bodywork, but has a practical hatch at the rear.

Using tools in cold...

Using tools in cold or wet conditions can often mean purchase is at a premium. With Kamasa’s new seven-piece screwdriver set, this is no longer an issue, as each has a high-grip rubberised handle.

Various designs are...

Various designs are available, from robust rubber units to those with stylish drilled aluminum finishes. Specialist firm Ledco has just introduced its latest version – so we put it in the spotlight.

Vauxhall"s upcoming...

Vauxhall"s upcoming Corsa has been spotted falling of the back of a lorry and our spies have managed to capture the car for the first time out in the open.

Warnings that motorists...

Warnings that motorists should keep their car keys out of view are not being heeded as TRACKER reports that so far in 2004, a massive 80% of the stolen vehicles the company has retrieved have been stolen with the keys. Car-jackings on the other hand, appear to be on the decrease. Car-jacking incidents peaked at 3.3% in 2001 and have fallen year on year ever since.

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.

WeтЂ™ve just driven...

WeтЂ™ve just driven the third and final coupe variant of the Maserati GranTurismo тЂ“ but itтЂ™s not the end of the line yet! These close-up spies confirm that a convertible version is almost open for business. And judging by the heavy camouflage at the rear, a fabric-roof has been shunned in favour of a folding hard-top, much like its cross-town cousin, the Ferrari California.

What do you do if youтЂ™re...

What do you do if youтЂ™re unhappy with the look of your favourite sports car? Design your own.

While all eyes will...

While all eyes will be firmly focused on the fight for the world championship, spare a thought for the tail-end Spyker outfit. The impoverished team had to delay the introduction of its uprated Ferrari-powered chassis when the new car failed an FIA crash test in the run-up to last month’s race in Turkey.

Who said small cars...

Who said small cars canтЂ™t be luxurious? This special-edition ForTwo looks set to be the most feature-packed Smart ever.

With four-wheel drive...

With four-wheel drive, the car follows hot on the heels of the RX400h - the world"s only petrol/electric SUV - and cements Lexus as the leader in the field. The 600h also provides the first glimpse of the all-new LS styling. It"s well ahead of the scheduled on-sale date of summer 2007.

With its distinctive...

With its distinctive windscreen surround, it shares many visual similarities with the convertible 100EX concept shown at the expo last year. However, every panel is new, and the wheelbase is reduced, too, making the striking car 225mm shorter than a Phantom saloon.

Without any coverings...

Without any coverings, it"s plain to see how restrained the designers have been with the second-generation car. With lamps inspired by those of the Traveller concept first shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, the new model is sleeker than its predecessor.

Year-to-date drop-top...

Year-to-date drop-top sales reveal the MINI Convertible sits at the top of the pile - it sold 7,396 units between January and August. A spokeswoman for the company said: "The cabrio is popular because it"s got all the good aspects of the standard MINI, and you can take the roof off. It has a very quick and easy-to-use mechanism."

You can already make...

You can already make hands-free calls behind the wheel – but soon you will be able to send texts without touching your mobile!