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

VW Phaeton - the new one coming in 2015

A brand new Volkswagen Phaeton Mk2 will be launched in 2015, based on a new architecture being masterminded by cousins Audi. Dubbed VW631, the new VW Phaeton will be based on MLM Evo (modular longitudinal matrix) which makes provision for a plug-in hybrid option, an aluminium-intensive body structure and a much more advanced and less nose-heavy dynamic layout. Although VW chairman Martin Winterkorn has in the past black-flagged the Avantissimo (A8-based) and the Passat Variant Plus (A6-derived), there is still a lot to be said for a second more practical bodystyle in addition to the four-door notch which is almost compulsory in this segment.

Londoners 'most likely to fail' driving test

LEARNERS gearing up to take their first driving test are twice as likely to pass in Scotland as those in London, according to analysis of driving test results by a car insurance company. Its analysis reveals that London has the test centres with the four lowest pass rates in the country for first time test-takers. Only 31% of learner drivers in Belvedere passing the first time, while Wanstead (32%), Barking (32%) and Wood Green (33%) were the other lowest scoring centres in the capital, all with first time pass rates significantly below the national average (48%), the study by Privilege Car Insurance found.

Three new Maseratis coming in quick succession - Marchionne

Maserati is preparing a trio of new products for launch in quick succession, Fiat chief exec Sergio Marchionne has confirmed. In an interview after addressing the CBI business conference in London yesterday, he said a successor to the Quattroporte, a smaller Maserati and the Kubang would reinvigorate the Maser range. 'Maserati will increase its volumes by having three cars,' said Marchionne, confirming a replacement for the Quattroporte, the SUV and 'a much smaller four-door.