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Videos: Volkswagen's exterior and interior designers highlight the Up's design elements

We've enjoyed the design of Volkswagen's new Up since we first saw the vehicle in concept form at the 2007 Frankfurt motor show. Devoid of any extraneous detailing, the simple, product design aesthetic is pared back to represent the crux of VW's design philosophy: pure, simple and solid.  The result is a harmonious design that stands out from the pack, with simple surfacing and subtle detailing; the Up's design is pure and minimalistic, which serves to exude quality in the product. Inside, the vehicle is brimming with space-saving design details.  From an IP devoid of central air vents to a thin headrest that visually extends the height of the interior, the Up is a success story in space efficiency, but it is also finished to a high level using quality materials.

Decision is near on Maybach

Daimler AG will decide the fate of Maybach by July 1. The two options: Kill the slow-selling superluxury sedan or partner with British carmaker Aston Martin on a second-generation car. At a Daimler event in Stuttgart, Germany, last week, CEO Dieter Zetsche said "there is a higher likelihood to come to a positive decision" for a second-generation Maybach if a partner is involved.

Redesigned 2013 Lexus LS offers new sheetmetal, safety features

Lexus Division unveiled its new LS 460 flagship luxury sedan that arrives in dealerships this fall, with standard and long-wheelbase editions, a hybrid version and a new F-Sport trim level with improved handling dynamics. Despite its sheet metal changes, the car is actually little changed underneath. Its 4.6-liter V8 engine and eight-speed transmission are basically carryover, at a time when luxury brands are using powertrain technology as a differentiating ploy.