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

First sight: Volkswagen Passat (2015)

In recent years, European buyers have been switching their mid-size sedans and wagons for smaller cars, crossovers and SUVs. The Volkswagen Passat, Europe's most successful company car, has defined this market segment pretty much since it arrived back in 1973, and this latest, eighth-generation model has been designed to attempt to reverse that buying trend. When we catch up with design director Dr Klaus Bischoff at the car's unveiling, he's certainly confident that the new car represents a significant step forward.

Autoweek's Best of the Best/Truck finalists for 2014

Every year, hundreds of new cars and trucks pass through our fleet for evaluation, and we're always on the lookout for those dazzling few deserving more careful scrutiny for our top honors: The Autoweek Best of the Best. We strive to do our judging under the radar with as little manufacturer knowledge as possible. We test for the Best of the Best by checking drivetrain, ride quality, handling, exterior styling and the like.

Spring 2014 issue of Interior Motives magazine out now

The spring edition of Car Design News’ quarterly interior design publication, Interior Motives magazine, is out now. This issue features in-depth design development articles on the most interesting and important concept and production vehicles from the recent Tokyo, Detroit and Geneva auto shows.  The cover star is Nissan’s IDx concept. Displayed in two different forms – sporty Nismo and laid-back Freeflow – the project was carried out with input from 30 young, fashion-conscious members of ‘Generation Z’ (born post-1990).