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

Aston Martin in talks with Mercedes for engine supply

It has seemed for some time that Aston Martin’s wish-list for future engines revolved around Mercedes. They currently use a V12 developed from Ford’s Mondeo V6 and a V8 that’s a development of the 4.2 litre that was in Jaguars (and Range Rovers) until a few years ago, but new engines (and new platforms) are vital if Aston are to remain competitive. Before the recent investment in AML by Investindustrial, there were plans for Aston to use both engines and platforms from Mercedes (the Lagonda SUV was built on the underpinnings of the Mercedes GL) and even the possibility that Aston Martin would design and build the next generation Maybach.

Families spending less on transport - new figures revealed

THE LATEST Family Spending data shows that UK households spent £489 on average per week in 2012, according to the Office for National Statistics. Once inflation is taken into account, average spending has decreased since 2006 when households spent £526.40. Transport has seen the biggest spending reduction taking inflation into account, falling from £87.10 per week in 2001/2002 to £64.10 in 2012 despite the price of petrol increasing substantially over this period.

Hyundai Elantra Coupe

Hyundai is set to expand its Elantra range with the introduction of two new models, the GT hatchback – based on the European i30 – and the all-new Coupe, shown here. The Coupe continues Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture design language, this time applied to the Elantra's long and low proportions. At 4,539mm in length, 1,775mm wide, 1,435mm high and with a wheelbase of 2,700mm, the Coupe is 9mm longer and 216mm lower than the Elantra sedan.