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

Alfa Romeo 4C convertible likely for 2015

Conventional wisdom holds that if you want to take on Porsche's 911, you need a convertible variant. And although Alfa Romeo's often marched to the beat of a wonderfully idiosyncratic drummer, it sounds as if it's hewing to general sporting-car rules of thumb with the 4C. According to a report in Britain's Autocar, sources have confirmed that a 4C convertible will follow the launch of the coupe by about a year.

Mercedes C Class BlueEfficiency – now even more efficient

Mercedes C Class BlueEFFICIENCY now has new, more frugal engines And the new engines Mercedes has announced for its C Class BlueEfficiency are quite remarkable. Already available in the new Mercedes E-Class, they offer remarkable economy whilst still producing a very drivable car. The new Mercedes C220 CDi Blue EFFICIENCY delivers 170bhp and a 0-60mph of 8.4 seconds, but averages nearly 59mpg and only emits 127 g/km o2.

Nissan Micra ELLE: It’s a Micra for the Ladies

Nissan has revealed a limited edition Micra – the Micra ELLE – produced in conjunction with Elle Magazine. There is a strong argument that the Nissan Micra is predominantly aimed at the fairer sex, and if that was in doubt the new Micra ELLE confirms it. Nissan has joined up with Elle Magazine to produce a limited run of 500 of the Micra Elle with cosmetic titivation (what else?) including panoramic roof (helps with putting makeup on), extra chrome (nice and sparkly), titanium grey alloys (which will unfortunately show every kerbing dent) and fog lights (for when it’s not foggy).