First Sight: BMW 1 Series

This is the first BMW to compete in the premium lower medium European car class defined by cars such as the Audi A3 and Alfa Romeo 147, although spiritually it follows the significantly smaller BMW 2002 Touring produced from 1968 to 1976. A little more compact that the 3 Series (which will grow in size with next year's new model) the 1 Series effectively replaces the 3 Series-based Compact and extends the brand downward to just above the Mini. The 1 Series was previewed by the CS1 two door convertible concept shown two years ago at Geneva, with which it shares much of its exterior proportions and form, and some interior design themes.

Renew your photo card driving licence!

Despite a fine of up to £1,000 for failing to do so, 2 million UK drivers are driving on expired photo card driving licences. Back in December, one of the Cars UK team had cause to hire a car – or at least try to – but was horrified to discover that his photo card driving licence had expired. A quick check across the team revealed one other expired photo card license and two who were still driving on the old pre photo card licenses.

MINI Countryman JCW teased – heading for Geneva 2012

MINI Countryman JCW teased MINI has started the tease for the most powerful Countryman – the MINI Countryman JCW – which will debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. It’s not exactly a surprise that the MINI Countryman JCW is on the way. After all, MINI will never knowingly miss a niche sale, so producing a John Cooper Works version of the MINI SUV was always going to be highly likely.