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

Consumer Reports' Luddites strike again

I am a technological wizard. At least that's the conclusion to which I've come after reading the January issue of Consumer Reports, which calls Cadillac CUE, the automaker's new infotainment system, “maddening.” After all, I had figured out CUE in a matter of minutes while acclimating myself to our Best of the Best ATS sedan last month. CUE, short for Cadillac User Experience, uses a touch-sensitive screen, capacitive switches and tactile, vibrating feedback to help drivers perform various functions.

Van drivers at greater risk of crashing

VAN DRIVERS are 50% more likely to be involved in a collision when driving too close to the vehicle in front and a massive 142% more at danger of crashing when reversing. Drivers of vans are also 43% more at risk of being in an accident even when parked, while performing a U-turn puts them at 39% more likely to be in a collision than other road users. Other areas where van drivers are more at risk is when changing lanes (36%) and on motorways (19%).

New Mercedes-Benz SUV coupe for Beijing

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz has teased its answer to the BMW X6 ahead of its unveiling at the 2014 Beijing Motor Show. The coupe SUV – which is likely to be called the MLC – will be based on the ML and shown at Beijing in concept form, before a production vehicle is revealed next year. Like the X6, the Mercedes-Benz concept coupe SUV features a rakish rear roofline and is likely to divide opinion among buyers.