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

New Mercedes SLK caught testing

The next generation (2012) Mercedes SLK caught testing at the Nurburgring The next generation SLK looks to be more aggressive in stance, with a nose that takes on the family theme from the new Mercedes E-Class. It seems likely that the new SLK will come with a new set of engines, with more than a passing nod to eco-concerns. In will come a 1.6 litre, four-pot supercharged engine that will pick up the mantle from the old 1.8 litre Kompressor engine – same power – or more – with lower emissions and better economy.

Toyota gunning for Honda Insight

We brought you news yesterday of the new Honda Insight, which Honda is launching in to the European market. Honda has made big noises about the Insight being significantly cheaper than the Prius, which seems to have got Toyota thinking. The next generation Toyota Prius (unveiled recently at Detroit) is due out before too long, and is a bigger, better equipped car than the outgoing version, and therefore more expensive.

Ssangyong Motor unveils new Design Center at Pyeongtaek plant

Ssangyong has opened a new Design Center at its Pyeongtaek plant in South Korea. The new Design Center, which took 13 months to complete, has been opened to further integrate research and development into the company during the production process with the aim of "enabling synergies in diverse fields throughout the development process". Ssangyong designers will now be working in a facility spanning around 8,700 square meters compared to their previous building of just over 6,000 square meters in Anseong.