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

Limited Edition MINI Countryman and MINI Paceman get Frozen Black Metallic Matt paint

MINI Paceman (pictured) with the new Frozen Black Matt paint job Matt paint finishes are not exactly everyone’s cup of tea, but for those with deep pockets – buying expensive cars – they’ve been an option for a while. And now BMW are extending their Matte paint finishes to MINI, with limited editions of the MINI Countrymnan and MINI Paceman being offered with the special Frozen Black Metallic Matt paint job. The Matt paint – which is textured and shimmers – certainly gives the MINI a new look and will be available on MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper SD Countryman, MINI Cooper S Paceman, MINI Cooper SD Paceman, MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and MINI John Cooper Works Paceman.

Consumer Reports gets top vehicle picks mostly right

Despite the publication's uncomfortably broad definition of reliability -- it spans everything from "the engine fell out" to "the touchscreen display shows fingerprints too easily" -- automakers still clamor to get on the Consumer Reports recommended vehicle list. This year's winners cover a broad spectrum of vehicles, and for the most part, we're in agreement with the magazine's editors, with one significant exception at the top of the list. Best overall vehicle went to the Tesla Model S.

Who's Where: Alfonso Albaisa appointed Nissan Design Director for Global Passenger Vehicles and Electric Vehicles

Alfonso Albaisa has been appointed as Nissan's Design Director for Global Passenger Vehicles and Electric Vehicles, a job that will see him move back to Japan. Albaisa joined Nissan Design America almost 24 years ago and has worked on vehicles in every category and on both interior and exterior projects. He has also worked on customized super yacht design and architecture, one of his particular passions in life.