2007 Civic Coupe Front Boomper Grille Dark Gray Plastic Frame Shell on 2040-parts.com

Toyota at the Paris motor show 2008

By Gavin Green Motor Shows 02 October 2008 19:16 Toyota showed the latest, third-generation Avensis, a car that typically whips up as much excitement from car enthusiasts as the Eurovision Song Contest does with music aficionados. The Avensis is one of those cars that typically provides loyal service to company car reps before naturally seeing out as its days as a minicab, pine scent dangling from rear-view mirror. The new one though is a much tidier effort in its styling, and the Tourer (estate) version is bordering on the svelte.

Video: Peter Schreyer on premium proportion

Kia has released a short film featuring Peter Schreyer that provides an insight into the world of premium car design in which he explains the importance of proportion. In the presentation, Schreyer sketches the company's new K9 sedan, describing how a rear-wheel drive platform affects the car's design, with its generous wheelbase, short front overhang and the 'prestige distance' between the center of the front wheel and the A-pillar. Related stories: Interview: Peter Schreyer, Chief of Design, Kia

GM confirms Chevrolet Spark minicar is headed to the U.S.

The Chevrolet Spark minicar will hit U.S. shores, General Motors said on Thursday from an auto-industry conference in Traverse City, Mich. The Spark will be built in the first half of next year as a 2013 model.