22157-u6091 Nissan Original Distributor Rotor +maching. Daiichi Cap on 2040-parts.com

2015 Prius said to have even better fuel economy

The next Toyota Prius will get “significantly better fuel economy in a more compact package that is lighter weight and lower cost,” according to Satoshi Ogiso, the Prius program's chief engineer. Ogiso, who is also Toyota Motor Corp.'s managing officer, said the next-gen Prius' performance will reflect “significant advances” in battery, electric-motor and gas-engine technologies. He said Toyota is looking at improving miles per gallon to 55, compared with today's 50 mpg and that the next-generation Prius electric motors will be smaller and more powerful; in addition, its gasoline engine will be among the world's most efficient.

Buick Verano

The Buick Verano will become the GM brand's smallest model when launched at the upcoming NAIAS in Detroit. Based on the same Delta II platform as the Chevrolet Cruze and Opel/Vauxhall Astra, it is also visually related to the latter, albeit to a lesser degree than its larger Regal sibling is to the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia. The upper-C-segment Verano's DRG features the familiar 'waterfall' grille, finished in black chrome, blue-lensed projector headlamps and requisite portholes atop its hood.

Bob Lutz reportedly to stay on at General Motors

Bob Lutz, General Motors vice chairman and internationally renowned product guru, has reversed his retirement plans and is expected to stay with the remade car company as it charts a new path out of bankruptcy. Multiple media outlets are reporting Lutz, 77, has changed course and will not retire from GM at the end of the year as he had planned. Automotive News, citing anonymous sources, says the veteran industry leader will stay on at the company, possibly in a marketing or communications role--and could have product input.