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

2009 Mazda 3 hatchback unveiled ahead of Bologna

Mazda has today released the first pictures of the new Mazda 3 hatchback, ahead of the Bologna Motor Show on December 3rd. The pictures come hot on the heels of the recently announced saloon and, just like the saloon, the Mazda 3 hatchback is a much fresher design, with far more sporty pretensions. One of the big aims for Mazda with the 3 was, of course, a much more economical car without sacrificing the old model’s strengths.

Kia to unveil Cub concept at Seoul motor show

Kia will unveil its new Cub compact four-door coupé crossover concept at this week's Seoul motor show. Designed by Kia's Namyang Design Center in Hwaseong, South Korea, the concept measures in at less than four meters long and is the latest in a series of explorations into Kia's B- and C-segment future models, following last year's Trackster concept and the Provo concept shown at the Geneva show earlier this month. From the single released image, the Cub features another possible direction for Kia's now-familar tiger-nose DRG with a slim, horizontal air intake running underneath two-point LED headlamps.

AMG Performance Media mines data from Mercedes-Benz rides

AMG, creator of all of the best Mercedes-Benzes, posted a video of a new option for the high-performance models called AMG Performance Media. Performance Media is a $2,500 option on AMG-badged Benzes that turns the COMAND display into race control. Using the system, drivers can switch among gauges showing speed or acceleration, lateral and longitudinal g-forces, lap times and oil and trans temperatures.