2008 Suzuki Ltr450 Cylinder on 2040-parts.com

Nissan’s new lightweight philosophy revealed

The leaked official drawings of the new Nissan Micra might have revealed the conventional styling of the company’s new supermini, but they gave little clue to the dramatically lightweight new platform that underpins it. The new Micra will be significantly lighter and more fuel efficient than the outgoing car due to a ruthless pursuit of weight reduction on the new V-platform (V = versatile), which on average has slashed 50kg from the new car's weight, and up to 70kg on some models. Project leader Noritaka Tsuru described the new package as a 'breakthrough car' that required a complete 'change in mentality' in how Nissan makes cars.

2013 Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost to launch in U.S.

The 2013 Ford Fiesta with the 1.0 litre EcoBoost engine is to launch in the U.S. in the New Year after a debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Ford is launching the 2013 Fiesta facelift – complete with its new Aston Martin grill – in the U.S.

McLaren P1 GTR track monster revealed at Pebble Beach

The McLaren P1 GTR track monster is revealed at Pebble Beach McLaren has taken the covers of the McLaren P1 GTR at Pebble Beach (after a tease last month) to demonstrate its design and intent ahead of production in 2015, and it certainly seems to tick all the boxes. Being built just for the track – with no need to comply with road regulations – McLaren are able to produce a car that re-writes track performance, with a focus on a bit more power – 1000PS (986bhp) – and a lot more handling prowess. The P1 GTR gets an 80mm increase in its front track, new front splitter and a set of slicks on 19″ forged wheels with centrelock hubs.