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

Classic Mini voted 'best British car'

THE ORIGINAL Mini, first introduced in 1959, is the best-ever British car, according to a survey of Autocar readers. The poll also named Norfolk-based Lotus as the most popular British manufacturer, with seven of its models making the 100 best British cars list. Following the Mini at the top of the list was the McLaren F1, with the Jaguar E-type third and the Range Rover fourth.

Watch the reactions of first time drivers of the BMW i3 EV

Jake Humphrey at the wheel of the BMW i3 EV It’s always tough to get across the driving experience; there’s no substitute for actually doing it. So BMW decided the best way to illustrate that their new electric city car – the BMW i3 – is a joy to drive was to film the reactions of first-time drivers, and their passengers, as they take to the wheel of the i3 for the first time on a test drive. BMW has filmed endless hours of footage of different drivers around the world getting to grips with the i3, and they’ve whittled that down to a compelling 1:37 video, much of which shows the reactions of drivers in the UK.

VW Golf R leaks ahead of Frankfurt

The 2010 VW Golf R with 265bhp and 4Motion It won’t surprise you to learn that VW has dropped the heavy and thirsty (though quick) 3.2 litre V6 in the last hot Golf in favour of the 2.0 litre turbo found in the Scirocco. This engine deliver 265 bhp and should give the Golf R a 0-60mph of around 6.3 seconds – or less with the DSG ‘box. The Golf R will also get VW’s 4Motion all wheel drive to add to the mix, and a raft of styling changes.