95 96 97 Ford Explorer R. Axle Shaft Front Axle 51755 on 2040-parts.com

Ford site weighs F-150 against rivals

Ford has launched a comparison Web site for the F-150 pickup that illustrates how its truck stacks up against the competition--packed with video footage, testimonials and data. On the site, you can choose to dive into "torture test" footage of the F-150, or you can opt to complete the head-to-head pickup comparison test to find the F-150 engine that best suits your needs, and how it compares with rival trucks. First, visitors are prompted to select whether the engine will be used for work or play, how much weight it will be required to haul (up to 2,860 pounds) and how many pounds it will need to tow (up to 11,300).

Volkswagen XL Sport Concept gets Ducati power: Paris 2014

The Volkswagen XL Sport Concept (pictured) gets Ducati power The Volkswagen XL 1 may well be an impressive ‘Supercar’ (that’s super-economical, rather than plain ‘super’), but it’s a daft amount of money and, unless you’re trying to make a ‘Green’ statement, not for everyone. But this Volkswagen XL Sport Concept is a more appealing car – both visually and mechanically – as VW take the XL 1 and rework it in to a sports car with a little help from Ducati. Because under the skin of the XL Sport lies a 197bhp V2 that’s come from Ducati (just as we reported a year ago) and delivers 197bhp through a seven-speed dual-clutch ‘box, with a reduction gear between engine and gearbox to boost torque, revs to 1,000 rpm and can get to 62mph in 5.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 157mph.

Audi A3 e-tron stars at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

We’ve seen the Audi A3 e-tron before, but here at Frankfurt 2013 it yet again makes up an important part of the VW Group’s electrified product line-up – and makes it another step closer to production. Offering premium levels of comfort, refinement and equipment, the Audi A3 also gives running costs and efficiency – all these factors combined could well attract a new set of hybrid vehicle buyers.