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

New Ford Kuga: Titanium and Titanium X make up 87% of sales

The new Ford Kuga is now hitting UK showrooms, and Ford has revealed that 87% of buyers are opting for the range-topping Titanium and Titanium X models. But what’s most interesting – in what is supposed to be a cash-strapped economy – is that a full 87 per cent of all the new Kugas ordered so far have been the range-topping Titanium and Titanium X models, and the average up-spend on options is another £1,000 on top of that. That means that although the Ford Kuga range starts at £21,000, 87 per cent of buyers are actually spending between £25-30k on their new compact SUV, which must warm the cockles of Ford’s heart.

Aston Martin expands personalization scheme

Aston Martin, the UK's ‘coolest brand', is set to increase its offerings of unique products. The British carmaker has announced that the ‘Works Tailored' personalization and customization department is expanding as part of a six-month development plan within the brand. The recently formed ‘Works Tailored' department, which works in close collaboration with engineers and designers, offers owners of Aston Martins of any age the chance to personalize their car to their exacting standards.

Kia Ray plug-in Hybrid revealed

Kia has revealed their plug-in hybrid concept - the Kia Ray - at the Chicago Motor Show A few weeks ago we reported on a tease from Kia of the Kia Ray Concept they were taking along to Detroit’s lower key motor show sibling – the Chicago Motor Show. And true to their word they revealed the Kia Ray at Chicago – and a convincing Prius rival it looks. Instead of the stodgy mainstream hybrids churned out to date by (mainly) the Japanese, the Kia looks like a breath of fresh air.