1 X Oe Mf Steering Wheel Control Module Vw Golf Gti Mk6 Jetta Mk5 1k0 549 953 Cd on 2040-parts.com

Concept Car of the Week: Honda Kiwami (2003)

As part of Honda's exploration into new, clean-performing technologies, the Kiwami concept was created to test public acceptance of the idea of a large, fuel cell-powered luxury sedan.  Unveiled in 2003, the simple yet striking design seemed like a Japanese twist on the Renault Vel Satis concept, which shared a similar wedge profile, wide stance and minimalist approach.  However, the Kiwami found its own interpretation of modern luxury, expressed through elegantly integrated technology rather than with crystal champagne glasses.  Up front, a full-width LED strip headlamp sat flush with the flat bonnet and the rectangular bumper to create a design of primitive beauty.  Further examples of the same simple Japanese aesthetic are found around the car, including the uncluttered body panels and a full-width tail-lamp graphic that matched the front theme.  The dramatic proportions of the interior were closely related to the package of the hydrogen power plant. Unlike other manufacturers at the time, Honda engineers did not create a 'skateboard' fuel cell chassis below the cabin. Instead, a sideways H-shaped layout for the control unit, ultracapacitor, fuel cell stack, hydrogen storage and other components was used, helping to create a lower center of gravity.

UPDATED: Honda hints at new European advanced design studio

On the eve of the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, Honda Design's Creative Director, Toshinobu Minami, announced that the company is looking to once again open a design facility in Europe. The announcement came during a presentation at the R&D Center in Waco, just outside the Japanese capital and, while not confirmed, Minami-san strongly hinted that the UK would be a likely candidate to play host to Honda's revitalized European design operations. He cited the country's existing manufacturing and administration facilities, as well as a wealth of new talent from the Royal College of Art in particular.

SEAT Leon FR 2.0 TDI 184 PS costs from £22,075

The SEAT Leon FR 2.0 TDI 184 PS (pictured) arrives in the UK from £22,075 The 2013 SEAT Leon arrived at the Paris Motor Show last year as the Spanish take in the VW Golf. And now the SEAT take on the Golf GTD is in the UK – the SEAT Leon FR 2.0 TDI 184 PS. With a dose of Spanish flair making the SEAT a more flamboyant, and appealing, car than the Golf, it comes with the same 181bhp 2.0 litre diesel as the GTD, offering 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and 67.3mpg.