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

US DoT makes rear-view cameras compulsory

The US Department of Transportation (DoT) has issued a new safety standard for rear visibility that requires mandatory fitment of rear-view cameras. The ruling applies to all new vehicles, excluding motorcycles, weighing under 10,000 pounds (4,536kg) sold from 2018. The ruling has been introduced to cut backover crashes, caused when the victim strays into the blind zone 10-40 feet (3-12m) behind the vehicle that the driver can't see using their mirrors alone.

Smart's $99 loan deal has big balloon payment at end

Hoping to benefit from the federal cash-for-guzzlers program, Smart USA has set up a $99 monthly payment for buyers who use their $4,500 rebate. But there's a catch--and a hefty balloon payment disclosed only as a note to an asterisk in Smart's press information announcing the offer. The Smart financing is for $99 a month for 36 months, with a balloon payment of $6,667 due at the end.

2014 Cadillac XTS Vsport priced at $63,020

We knew the 2014 XTS Vsport would get twin-turbo power, but now Cadillac has officially revealed the pricing and specs for the new high-powered XTS at a healthy $63,020, including destination. The 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 delivers 410 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque and has an array of new features, including all-new cylinder block casting, strengthened connecting rods, more than 12 lbs. of boost from the two turbochargers and an all-new direct-injection fuel system.