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

Saab on the road to independence

You’ve got to feel for Scandinavian car makers Saab and Volvo. Both swallowed up by big US car makers, and both now being abandoned in a vulnerable position after years of integrating their once independent products in to their parents infrastructure, they must wake up every day wondering if this is the day it all goes bang. Ford is simply trying (increasingly desperately) to off-load Volvo, but GM, which is in a much more precarious position than Ford, has now abandoned its Swedish child in a desperate attempt to appease Congress and survive.

Audi reveals TV spots for A3

Audi has revealed a few TV ads for its newest A3 sedan, which we reviewed last week. The one-minute, 30-second and 15-second spots feature comedian Ricky Gervais, chef David Chang, photojournalist Lynsey Addario, comedian Kristen Schaal, boxer Clarissa Shields, street artists Cyrcle and church choir Voices of Destiny. The company is building off its “Stay Uncompromised” theme that debuted during the Super Bowl.

First sight: Volkswagen Passat (2015)

In recent years, European buyers have been switching their mid-size sedans and wagons for smaller cars, crossovers and SUVs. The Volkswagen Passat, Europe's most successful company car, has defined this market segment pretty much since it arrived back in 1973, and this latest, eighth-generation model has been designed to attempt to reverse that buying trend. When we catch up with design director Dr Klaus Bischoff at the car's unveiling, he's certainly confident that the new car represents a significant step forward.