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

How South America designed the Ford Ka

The Ka Concept was shown at the São Paulo auto show in Brazil in November 2013, and was revealed in production form last week. It marks the first time the Ka has reflected the broader brand homogeneity of the 'One Ford' design strategy, and continues the Ka's shift in direction from the distinctive original.The new car is the work of Ford's South American design studio in Camaçari, Brazil - its second 'One Ford' car, following the EcoSport. But while the crossover enters a new segment, the 17-year history of the Ka nameplate in Brazil gives an insight into how the demands of the local market have taken precedence over design iconicity.

Driving the Nissan EV: We get seat time in a prototype

We got to fling a prototype of the coming Nissan electric vehicle around the parking lot at Dodger Stadium and, like the Dodgers themselves on Opening Day, it was a winner. The prototype body was a previous-generation Cube, but the drivetrain of the car was "99 percent there," according to Nissan. So we drove an old car with the new drivetrain.

Lexus LF-LC Blue concept unveiled in Australia

Lexus has unveiled a new take on the LF-LC concept—dubbed the LF-LC Blue—at the Australian motor show. The LF-LC Blue builds on the dramatic LF-LC coupe concept that debuted at the 2012 Detroit auto show, featuring the same wildly sculpted aluminum and carbon-fiber body. Lexus is calling concept's color Opal blue, a reference to the iridescent gemstones found in Australia.