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

Aston Martin ditches Cygnet city car

CITY SLICKERS will no longer be able to cut a dash in a diminutive Aston Martin, following the company's decision to axe the controversial Cygnet from its range. The tiny Cygnet, which takes its name from a young swan, was an adaptation of the Toyota iQ, refitted with the finest luxury materials and priced at over £30,000. Its low CO2 output is rumoured to have been the main reason for the model’s presence in the range, since Aston Martin could in that way lower the company’s average CO2 output across the range in line with European emissions rules.

New high-performance BMW X5 M50d diesel in pictures

BMW has released pictures and details of the new X5 M50d, a 381hp super-diesel SUV with the world’s most powerful straight-six diesel engine. It will join the new, third-generation X5 range, which is set to go on sale in the UK this November with prices starting at £42,590. The engine carries over from the previous X5 M50d, but the 2013 version is both quicker and more fuel-efficient.

Alfa Romeo going to the USA

Alfa Romeo is going back to the US for the first time in almost 20 years We already know that the only Fiat making its way to the US is the Fiat 500, but it now looks as if a big chunk of the Alfa Romeo range will make the journey too. Sergio Marchionne, Fiat’s boss and the new head of Chrysler, has been working on rationalising Chrysler’s management and working out the best way forward. As mentioned, only the Fiat 500 will be offered for sale in America (and probably built in Mexico), with Fiat platforms being used to build new Chryslers that will be designed and built in the States.