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

MINI Canyon in 2012

The MINI Canyon - a 2 Door MINI Countryman What on earth is a MINI Canyon, I hear you ask? You’ll be shocked to know it’s yet another iteration of the ubiquitous MINI, and it’s due to hit our roads in 2012 if the rumours Auto Express are pushing are to be believed. The MINI Canyon is said to be a 2 door MINI Countryman based on a shortened Countryman platform and featuring the Countryman’s AWD option.

Ford reveals S-Max concept ahead of 2013 Frankfurt motor show

Here's another one that'll probably go straight into the “not bound for United States shores” file: the Ford S-Max concept, which will make its grand debut at the 2013 Frankfurt motor show. Ford says the S-Max previews a “future sport activity vehicle,” which may, in fact, be contemporary PR-speak for “mini-minivan.” Look beyond the carbon-fiber interior detailing (and add some door handles) and you'll see a vehicle that looks more or less production-ready. The S-Max concept isn't too wildly sculpted, sharing styling cues with current Fords (including the Fiesta, Escape/Kuga, C-Max and Fusion/Mondeo) -- from the creases on the hood to the high, hexagonal grille to the stainless steel trim surrounding the greenhouse.

CCS launches MFA degree programs

The College for Creative Studies in Michigan, USA, is set to launch new Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree programs in Design and Transportation Design. The new courses, which launch in Fall 2009, will give students a broad scope of skills and experience in 2D and 3D design, and will include a basic study in business that will take place at the University of Michigan's respected Stephen M Ross School of Business. CCS says that this will equip graduates with the tools required to implement concepts and make strategic decisions - increasingly important parts of a 21st century car designer's skillset.