2012 Ford Focus: A different kind of test drive for consumers

Ford is rolling out a fairly simple idea in August to get consumers interested in the 2012 Ford Focus--drive it. But instead of the usual dealership experience, where potential buyers are often accompanied by a sales person, Ford is now pitching the new Focus to customers on more neutral turf, which the aim of highlighting the technological and handling prowess of the car. The program is being billed as “Start more than a car.

Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition: Geneva Motor Show 2013

Alfa Romeo has revealed the Alfa 4C at the Geneva Motor Show and the Alfa 4C Launch Edition which will cost €60,000. The Alfa Romeo 4C Launch Edition – just 1,000 are being built with only 400 staying in Europe – will cost a fairly strong €60k (around £52,000) and comes in either Carrara White of Alfa Red with a carbon fibre bodykit that adds carbon fibre for the spoiler at the back, to the door mirrors and round the headlights with dark alloys and front air intakes. The suspension also gets a tweak.

Bentley Crossover and Sport Hatch/Estate planned

Bentley are planning an 'Allroad' Estate type car and a two-door Shooting Brake hatch These rumours crop up from time to time – new entry-level models from prestige car makers – but perhaps we need to take some of them a bit more seriously now the world seems to be on a down-sizing path. So we thought it worth at least giving a nod to the rumour that Bentley are planning a pair of entry-level models to slot in below the Continental – in the £70k bracket. Especially as they come from the pen of Georg Kacher, a well-connected and well-respected car journo.