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Theory driving test cost to be cut

THE COST of the written part of the driving test is to be reduced, the Government has announced. Under Government plans, which are now out for consultation, the cost of sitting the theory section of the test will be reduced from £31 to £25 from October 2014, with a further drop of drop of £2 planned in October 2015. The proposals could save learner drivers in excess of £100 million over the next nine years.

Four-door version of Fiat 500 coming to North America

Fiat is bringing a four-door version of the 500 small car to North America, three company sources say. The vehicle will appear in Europe at the end of 2011. Timing for the United States is still uncertain.

Future products: Kia seeks lively, upscale look

Kia's redesigned Optima sedan and the Cadenza replacement for the Amanti, both due next year, reflect an emphasis on creating a livelier and more upscale look for the once-bland brand. Indeed, styling has been a crucial element of Kia's new-product push in the past 18 months. The team at Kia Design Center America near Los Angeles--part of the automaker's global design network led by onetime Audi design chief Peter Schreyer--has helped set the new styling direction.