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

Skoda confirms two new models

Skoda Vision D at Geneva - Skoda's new design direction It’s now got to the point with Skoda where the skip-on-wheels reputation of the ’70s and ’80s – and even the ‘Cheap’ VW tag of the ’90s and ’00s – has been completely eclipsed by the perception of Skoda as quite simply the maker of some crackingly good cars. Cars like the brilliant little Skoda Fabia vRS – which we’d take over the Polo GTI (much more character) – and the equally brilliant Skoda Yeti which, although it might not quite live up to Clarkson’s recent tongue-in-cheek assertion as the best car in the world is, nonetheless, exceptionally good. That change in perception is clear in the confident model range on offer from Skoda and the clever way in which it’s marketed.

Range_e (2013) - the hybrid electric Range Rover Sport

Land Rover today confirmed its first hybrid models will be launched in 2013. The new Range_e is a showcase for the company's diesel-electric hybrid tech in a current Range Rover Sport bodyshell. Tests will start in late 2010 with a small fleet of five hybrids - but bosses have set a 2013 production date, coinciding with the launch of the large family of Land Rovers.

Video: 7 sexiest car-wash scenes on film

It's Friday afternoon, and in an effort to help you faster pass the last few hours of the work week, we want to call your attention to New York Magazine's video slideshow of the hottest car-wash scenes on film. The spread is entertaining enough in its own right, but the real fun comes from the deadpan commentary provided by Debra Gorgos of Professional Carwashing & Detailing Magazine, who critiques the scrubbing skills of these scantily dressed stars. As for the common (in Hollywood, at least) practice of using one's bikini-clad chest in place of a soapy sponge?