1930/1931ford Model A Hubcaps (set Of 4) Vintique Mfg. on 2040-parts.com

Creature comforts now top car-shoppers' 'must-haves'

New technologies come with a learning curve, but once we tackle the initial challenge it's amazing how quickly new features become “must-haves.” From cars that unlock as we approach to those that keep themselves between the lines and a safe distance from what's ahead, we have already become accustomed to high-tech driving. So which features would most drivers refuse to live without? Surprisingly, it's the simplest creature comforts most people hold dear—at least for now.

Alfa MiTo 1.3 JTDM-2 – paint job by Louise Dear

Alfa Romeo Art Car by Louise Childs Alfa Romeo are pushing quite a few PR buttons with the congestion charge busting Alfa MiTo 1.3 JTDM-2 85bhp, the latest of which is the ‘Art Car’ in the photo above. Recently, we had Alfa pitting the MiTo 1.3 JTDM-2 85bhp in a race around London against an athlete. On the face of it that race was to promote UK Athletics (sponsored by Alfa Romeo) but a big part, and the reason for the ‘London’ angle, is that the latest MiTo emits just 95g/km – the perfect London car.

Bentley 6¾ litre V8 to end production – Diesels & Hybrid on the way

Bentley’s outgoing boss has revealed Bentley are planning to drop their trademark 6¾ litre V8 and introduce hybrid and diesel options. Bentley’s famed 6¾ litre V8 engine – in production since 1959, although it didn’t grow to 6¾ litre until 1970 - is as much a USP for Bentley as the badge and the history. BMW tried to bring production of the old iron lump to an end in 1998 – replacing it with a characterless BMW 4.4 litre V8 – but it was back a year later when VW took over as the motivation for the Red Label Arnage – and it’s stayed ever since.