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

Design Services: Ficosa International

In the hierarchy of car design the exterior of a powerful sports car is usually regarded as the highest level whilst the design of some of the smaller functional components tends to sit at the bottom. But even for companies not obviously dependant on sexy curves to help them make money, design is increasingly being recognised as a critical ingredient for commercial success. Whilst most large suppliers have grown their design capability over the last decade, few have truly embraced the potential of having a focus on Design within their corporate strategy.

Volkswagen Passat (2014) first pictures: VW's Passat Mk8

By Tim Pollard First Official Pictures 03 July 2014 23:01 The 2014 Volkswagen Passat has been unveiled - you're looking at the eighth generation of Passat. And, yes, it remains the epitome of sensible, stout Teutonic values. The new Passat is based on the Volkswagen group's clever, adaptable MQB box of tricks, the architecture which underpins the Golf Mk7, too.

Ford Focus sells 1,500,000 in the UK

Ford Focus - 1,500,000 sold in the UK Ford has revealed that the 1,500,000th Ford Focus has rolled out since its launch in 1998 heading for Essex cricketer Jaik Mickleburgh. The Ford Focus has been something of a phenomenon for Ford in the UK and has now racked up sales of 1,500,000 in the UK since it hit UK roads back in 1998. Ford are shouting about the Focus’s achievements – quite rightly – and have sent the landmark Focus to Essex cricketer Jaik Mickleburgh, no doubt as part of Ford’s ongoing sponsorship of Essex cricket.