1993-1997 Nissan Altima Engine Mount Front Right on 2040-parts.com

Mercedes-Benz considering Aston Martin buyout

Mercedes-Benz is reportedly considering a deal to buyout sports car manufacturer Aston Martin, fuelling rumours that the canned Aston Martin Lagonda SUV concept from 2009 (pictured above) could once again be back on. The move would see Merc increase its current 5% stake in the British brand following a deal announced last year to supply AMG engines for Aston’s next generation of sports cars. On Bing: see pictures of the Aston Martin Lagonda SUV concept Find out how much a used Aston Martin costs on Auto Trader It’s no secret the firm has been toying with the idea of a premium SUV following the Lagonds concept, so with Mercedes technical expertise and existing model range, it opens up potential new models to Aston Martin.

Honda Civic Ti, Accord Facelift (2011) at Geneva

The Honda Civic Type R might have died, but Honda today released pictures of its stylistic equal: the race-inspired but humdrum-powered Civic Ti. Honda says the new Civic Ti takes design cues from the Honda touring car and adds more than £3700 of extras to the 1.4 and 1.8 i-VTEC SE models. The five-door Civic is fitted with 17-inch 'Pro race' matt black wheels from Honda's BTCC racing partner, Team Dynamics. The broody black bodykit includes front spoiler, rear spoiler side inserts and rear body skirts - all contrasting the white pearl paintjob.

Threat to rural road maintenance

TOTAL ROAD CLOSURES may be necessary as the extreme winter weather has left councils struggling to maintain routes, according to a local government chief. One council - Cornwall - said it was being "starved of resources" and was considering stopping maintenance of rural roads. But the Department for Transport said billions of pounds were being provided for local highways maintenance and it was the responsibility of authorities to cope with severe weather.