1974 Ford Torino Rear Speaker Harness on 2040-parts.com

GM bets on new four-cylinder family in Europe; U.S. plans unclear

General Motors' European subsidiary, Opel, has revealed a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine that will be offered from early 2013 across its lineup, starting with the soon-to-be-revealed Astra-based Cascada convertible. The aluminum block unit, the first in a new range of so-called SIDI (spark ignition direct injection) ECOTEC engines, forms the centerpiece of the company's downsizing strategy for displacement. The engine is claimed to have improved torque characteristics and a significant reduction in consumption compared with its predecessor.

Superb wins Tow Car of the Year

THE SKODA SUPERB Estate has been crowned Tow Car of the Year by the Caravan Club, beating off competition from 40 other entrants including Range Rover and Jaguar. Commenting on the Superb’s ability, the judges remarked: ‘With a loading limit of 100kg on the roof, 80kg on the towball and a boot that scored maximum marks, it’s a very tough act to follow. You wouldn’t know you were towing a caravan.’ Skoda also won the £16,000-£20,000 category with the new Octavia 1.2 TSI, which was praised for its pulling power with such a small engine.

BMW reveals Concept M4 coupe at Pebble Beach

BMW's M division has previewed its upcoming M4 coupe with the unveiling of a near-production-ready concept of the new performance coupe at the annual Pebble Beach Concours in Monterey, Calif. The BMW Concept M4 provides a lightly veiled look at the eagerly anticipated M3 coupe replacement that is expected to make its public premiere in production guise at the Detroit auto show in January. North American sales will start before the second half of 2014.