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

FCA issues warning on logbook loans

VULNERABLE people who use their car as security to take out a loan are finding themselves squeezed even harder financially and even threatened, the City regulator has found. The Financial Conduct Authority warned it will put firms offering logbook loans out of action if they do not "dramatically" improve their standards, after finding evidence of poor behaviour including little or no affordability checks being carried out and some applicants being encouraged to manipulate details of their income. It said lenders are failing to properly spell out exactly how expensive such debts will be, with the true cost often masked by an emphasis on "low" weekly repayments and key terms and conditions buried in small print.

New models to spur sales, J. D. Power says

A flood of new-model introductions this year will help pump sales volume for the industry, according to forecasts from J.D. Power and Associates. Automakers have scheduled 60 new or substantially redesigned model introductions this year, compared with just 36 in 2010, by Power's count.

Alfa Romeo MiTo facelift revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

The Alfa Romeo MiTo has been refreshed for the 2014 model year here at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show – a subtle facelift that the Italian maker will be hoping is enough to see off the challenge from the forthcoming all-new MINI. There’s still no five-door variant but revised engines and updated trims make the smallest Alfa feel just that bit more modern.