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

Ariel's Atom returns faster than ever

BRITISH firm Ariel has announced an upgraded version of its sensational Atom sportscar that is faster than ever, making it one of the quickest cars on sale today. The Atom 3.5R showcases a number of upgrades over the outgoing model which contribute to the sensational performance. The 2.0-litre Honda V-TEC engine has had its supercharger revised to give 350bhp and over 240lb.ft of torque, while the gearbox is now a six-speed paddleshift system that can manage five downshifts in less than a second.

New Rolls-Royce Ghost Alpine Trial Centenary Collection

We all know that ‘Special Edition’ cars help car maker shift metal, and even at the top end it works – especially in China. All of which explains why Rolls Royce are delivering a new limited edition Ghost for China at the Shanghai Motor Show this weekend – the Rolls Royce Ghost Alpine Trial Centenary Collection – which takes inspiration for its titivation from the Silver Ghosts that took part in the Austrian Alpine Trials in 1913. The Alpine Trial event in 1913 – just before the world changed forever – saw four Rolls Royce Silver ghosts drive for 1820 miles through almost impossible mountain terrain and establish Rolls Royce as the makers of the ‘Best car in the world’.

Tax-return car deals

Automakers are offering cut-rate financing, cash back and lease deals just as our income-tax-refund checks are coming in the mail. These timely tax-return car deals are paired with the necessity for automakers to make room on dealer lots for all-new models. (See the Cadillac CTS deals.) Here, we break down some of the incentives being offered this month.