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

Vauxhall VXR8 (2011): first official pictures

Vauxhall has revealed its new 2011 VXR8. These first official pictures of the VXR8 show an edgier and more aggressive look over the model it replaces. But it's way more expensive, too.

Volkswagen Golf GTE Plug-in Hybrid UK debut

The VW Golf GTE (pictured) gets its UK debut at the NEX next week The Volkswagen Golf GTE – which VW see as a plug-in hybrid Golf GTI – was revealed in February ahead of its debut at the Geneva Motor Show last month and is now heading for the Gadget Show Live at the NEC next week for its UK debut. With a 1.4 litre TSI petrol turbo producing 148bhp and a 101 bhp electric motor, the Golf GTE promises decent performance – 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds – daft official economy figures of 188 mpg and the ability to run on electric power only for up to 31 miles. It’s an appealing combination for a Golf that can offer city running benefits with a turn of decent performance when the mood takes, although at a price likely to be north of £30k it’s not exactly a budget buy.

Fashion designers make their mark on Opel/Vauxhall Adams

Vauxhall has joined forces with fashion designers Louise Gray, James Small and Fred Butler by giving them the chance to personalize their own Adam car. Each designer had their own Adam to customize and they set about the task of using it as a canvas to express their own signature style. Gray, whose designs are typically colorful and bold, used foil-printed silk crepe and large sequins to personalize her car; Small's smooth, brightly- painted Adam represents his printed menswear line, while Butler's vibrant geometric design conveys his personal style.