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

A profile of Steve McQueen: Autoweek archives

For today's Autoweek archive feature, we are highlighting an article by Denise McCluggage from February 1981. McCluggage knew McQueen and recalls her encounters with the “King of Cool” through the years until his death. Before becoming a star, McQueen and McCluggage met over their mutual love of automobiles, more specifically the MG-TC, which both subsequently owned.

Leaked photos may show the 2014 Mazda 3

Mazda might not have planned on revealing the 2014 Mazda 3 lineup until next year, but photos showing the redesigned sedan and hatchback may expose the car’s lines a few months ahead of schedule. If the images are to be trusted, the Kodo design language—readily apparent on the upcoming 2014 Mazda 6 sedan and wagon—will make the jump to the smaller, less expensive Mazda 3 as well. Gone is the controversial “smile” grille worn by the 2012 Mazda 3.

Hyundai ix35 Review (2012): Premium 1.7 CRDi 2WD

We have Hyundai’s impressive looking ix35 compact SUV come crossover in for a week for review in 2WD guise with Premium trim and the 1.7 CRDi engine. We’ve wittered on endlessly about how impressive Hyundai’s efforts have become in the last few years; from Halford’s special to credible alternative in less time than it takes from one Olympic games to the next. But it’s one thing turning small, budget family cars in to real competition for the established market leaders, but is it a stretch too far to think Hyundai can take on the might of car makers like Ford and VW in the compact SUV market?