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

New MoT failure figures reveal surprises

BETWEEN January and August 2013 253,000 vehicles failed their first MoT, according to new data. 70 million records from the Vehicle Operation and Services Agency (VOSA) were examined to reveal the patterns of failure for cars receiving their first MoT, required three years from the date of first registration. However, while the best performers have pre-existing reputations for reliability, the bottom of the table reveals some surprises.

Honda Civic saloon, coupe at the 2011 Detroit show

Honda showed off two new Civics at the NAIAS 2011: the Civic Si Concept Coupe and the Civic Concept Saloon. They're sadly US-market only, rather than related to the European spec models, themselves up for replacement at the end of 2011. Although 'concepts', these two effectively show what will roll into US showrooms in spring 2011.  The blurb is pretty strict on the difference between the American and Euro Civics: 'The Civic Si coupe and saloon Concepts are US-only design and will not be sold in the UK.

Who's Where: Peter Jones appointed Lincoln Interior Design Manager

Lincoln has appointed Peter Jones as the luxury brand's new interior design manager, a role he will take up within the next few weeks. Jones, who has worked at Ford Australia's design studio for seven years, will report directly to Max Wolff, a former colleague who moved in January 2011 to become Lincoln's Design Director. The Australian designer was interior design manager for the new Ranger and also worked as lead exterior designer on the FG Falcon Ute.