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

Mercedes proves E-Class hybrid tech with unusual test

IN AN impressive display of performance and economy, Mercedes-Benz has completed a lengthy test of its new E300 Bluetech Hybrid saloon by driving it almost the length of the country on a single tank of fuel with a flat-out speed test at either end. With ex-rally driver Mick Linford at the wheel the standard production E300 Bluetech Hybrid began with a full tank of fuel at Newquay Cornwall Airport, the most southerly airport in mainland Britain. Down the main runway it completed an acceleration test to past 62mph from rest in a little over seven seconds and reached 136mph before braking for the end of the runway.

Dacia will offer “Shockingly Affordable” UK car prices says Renault

Dacia Duster promises to be sub £10k in the UK Renault’s budget brand Dacia will offer “Shockingly Affordable” prices in the UK from 2013. Dacia Duster SUV under £10k and Sandero under £7k. This week Renault announced a ’100 Day Countdown’ to the arrival of the Dacia brand in the UK (well, strictly speaking, that’s a re-arrival) although the reality is that Dacia vehicles won’t actually arrive until January 2013, although you will be order one in June.

SEMA 2008 show report: Ford F-150, Mustang and Flex

By Phil McNamara Motor Shows 06 November 2008 09:30 Ford's stand was dominated by four models: the Flex, a slammed, seven-seat SUV with Range Rover-styling cues; the iconic F-150 pick up; the Focus; and, of course, the Mustang. With an ear-splitting V8 roar, Ford unveiled a 50-edition run of the Cobra Jet Mustang, and the F-150 SVT Raptor, a go-anywhere extreme version of the pick-up, which will bounce across sand dunes in the Baja California race later this month before going on sale next year. But tucked away in a corner was a less environmentally destructive F-150, shaped by British engineering firm PML.