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

Video: Behind-the-scenes at the CDN-GM Interactive Design Competition 2013 awards ceremony

The 2013 edition of the CDN-GM Interactive Design Competition saw the largest number of participants and entries ever, and produced an outstanding standard of work. In this video, filmed at the awards ceremony that took place at the North American International Auto Show, judges explain the competition structure and the benefits that both GM and the students get from the experience. Winning students also reveal how participating in the competition provided a platform for them to launch their careers and gain exposure to the world's biggest carmakers.

Redesigned 2014 Lexus IS base price increases

Lexus has set the base price of the 2014 IS compact sport sedan at $36,845, including shipping, an increase of $885 from its predecessor, Lexus said. In contrast, the top-level IS 350 with all-wheel drive starts at $42,595, including shipping, which is 2.1 percent lower than the model it replaces, Lexus said in a statement this week. The pricing makes good on Lexus' guarantee to keep the base price attainable for consumers “by narrowing the gap between the 250 and 350,” a Lexus spokesman said.

Mercedes SLM AMG – the mid-engined baby SLS

The Mercedes SLM AMG - a baby, mid-engined SLS Ever since the Mercedes SLS launched – in truth, even before – there have been rumours of a smaller version. Just like we’ve had with the Audi R8. But it seems that unlike Audi – who will be making an Audi R4 – Mercedes and AMG have decided that another front-engined supercar – even a smaller, cheaper one – would erode the sales base for the SLS.