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

Mini debuts four new design lines for 2014 Cooper

Mini Coopers really come to life when finished in the marque's signature appearance packages, such as Union Jack roofs and checkered flag mirror caps, and for the third-generation three-door hardtops debuting this spring the automaker is debuting some new designs. Minis have always been about personalization, and since the brand's relaunch under BMW's roof owners seemed to appreciate the cheeky designs that included roof graphics, grille-mounted headlights, racing stripes for the hood, and mirror caps. All those features are coming back for the new 2014 three-door Hardtops, and along with them the company is introducing a lineup of four Mini Characters, called Vivid Green, Speedwell Blue, John Cooper Works Pro, and Essential Black.

Mercedes removed Lieb over compliance issue, report says

Daimler AG dismissed Mercedes-Benz USA chief Ernst Lieb for violations of human resources and ethics policies relating to household expenses paid by the automaker, The Financial Times reported Wednesday, citing sources close to the company. Lieb was abruptly removed as head of the automaker's second-largest market on Oct. 17 after more than 30 years at Daimler.

Land Rover Defender Challenge by Bowler – the Defender goes rallying

The Land Rover Defender goes rallying (pictured) with Bowler modifications The venerable Land Rover Defender – now reaching the end of its shelf life – may not seem the perfect rally car. But a Defender tweaked and fettled with some Bowler Fairy Dust is another matter, and that’s exactly what’s happening with a new, one-make Defender Challenge by Bowler – and backed by Land Rover – which is aiming to put up to fifteen Defenders in to UK forest stage rallies and hill rallies in 2014. The Defender in question is a Defender 90 Hard Top with the usual 2.2 litre diesel, but sorted by Bowler to deliver 170bhp and 323lb/ft of torque (up from the regular 122bhp/266lb/ft) with a standard six-speed manual ‘box, MSA roll cage, fire extinguisher and Khumo tyres.