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GM bets on new four-cylinder family in Europe; U.S. plans unclear

General Motors' European subsidiary, Opel, has revealed a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine that will be offered from early 2013 across its lineup, starting with the soon-to-be-revealed Astra-based Cascada convertible. The aluminum block unit, the first in a new range of so-called SIDI (spark ignition direct injection) ECOTEC engines, forms the centerpiece of the company's downsizing strategy for displacement. The engine is claimed to have improved torque characteristics and a significant reduction in consumption compared with its predecessor.

Hyundai steps up new model push

By Phil McNamara Motor Industry 11 September 2006 10:45 Hyundai's bid to gatecrash the world's top five car-makers will continue with two crucial new models: a seven-seat SUV and a mid-size hatch. In 2007, the aggressive Korean car maker will wade into Europe's biggest market – the C-segment – with a family hatch, and launch a big, seven-seat crossover SUV Stateside. The crossover – captured here by our spy photographers – will be named Veracruz, continuing Hyundai's habit of adopting Mexican names.

UK car sales grow for first time in 15 months

By Tim Smith Motor Industry 06 August 2009 12:30 UK new car sales have nudged upwards by 2.4% in July 2009 – the first increase for 15 months. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, which collates registration figures, claimed that the scrappage scheme was responsible for the jump. Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said: ‘The impact of the scrappage scheme is clear and we are encouraged by the positive impact it has had, increasing new car registrations since April 2008.