Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

2013 European Car of the Year finalists announced

The finalists for the European Car of the Year have been announced, a total of 5 finalists from a total of 34 nominees. It’s coming to the end of another year, so we’re going to be inundated with ‘Best Car of the Year’ awards for the next few weeks from all on sundry. Out of the gate today comes the final list for the European Car of the Year’ with a selection of eight cars (it was too close to call for the normal seven finalists) with the only real surprise perhaps being the inclusion of two French cars – the Renault Clio and Peugeot 208.

Ford recalls Fusion and Milan sedans for wheel-stud problems

Ford is recalling 128,616 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan sedans for faulty wheel lugs. The recall affects cars from the 2010 and 2011 model years that have steel wheels. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says vibration in the studs can cause them to crack or break, possibly resulting in the wheel falling off.

Dacia Sandero: Price from £5,995

The new 2013 Dacia Sandero – revealed at Paris 2012 – is to cost from just £5,995 when it arrives in the UK in January 2013. The Sandero joins the Dacia Duster SUV in an attack on the burgeoning ‘Budget’ market in the UK and stands out as a Fiesta rival at almost half the price you’d pay for entry in to Ford’s evergreen supermini (£9,795). The Sandero’s styling isn’t cutting edge, but nor does it shriek ‘Cheap’ at first glance.