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Abarth 595 (2012) Turismo and Competizione join range

Two new versions of Abarth's 500 hot hatch have been revealed, coming as standard with more power, upgraded toys and even more personalisation potential. There's also a handy price-drop for the standard Abarth 500, which gets a few tweaks to keep the Scorpion-badged pocket rocket fresh. How does the new Abarth range stack up?

Renault R-Space concept

Following on from the DeZir and Captur, the R-Space took to the stage at Geneva alongside the Twizy and Zoe to complete a healthy concept car showing from Renault.  An upbeat, funky vision of the MPV segment sees the R-Space omit B-pillars in favor of a frameless suicide door set up. This allows uninterrupted access to the interior, which is the main focal point of the concept. Seemingly split into two sections, the rear has been designed with children in mind and features a bevy of motorized cubes that can alter the seating arrangement for child, adult or even baby seats.

Japan Car: Designs for a Crowded Globe

The Science Museum in London, UK is hosting the Japan Car: Designs for the Crowed Globe exhibition, sponsored by seven Japanese automobile manufacturers. An exploration of the car as a 'mobile cell', the exhibition has been conceived by graphic designer Kenya Hara and architect Shigeru Ban to show how Japanese design reflects the 'soil and spirit' of Japan, depicted by concept cars and models specific to the Japanese market. Speaking to Car Design News, Shigeru Ban explained how the automobile was chosen as the central element to the exhibition because it is a reflection of Japanese culture and tradition.