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

Drive the Polo R WRC as VW Rally the World

Drive the Polo R WRC as VW Rally the World Volkswagen have already made the most of their entry in to the World Rally Championships this year with the Polo R WRC – apart from the fact it’s created a 4WD platform for the Polo/A1 in the process – with a street version of the Polo R WRC (although not in the UK). But VW’s adventure in to WRC with the Polo R hasn’t just been about a bit of product development and a spun-off road version – they’ve taken it very seriously. So seriously have VW taken WRC – and so well prepared were they – that Sebastian Ogier has already taken the 2013 drivers gong in WRC (from the previous – long term – incumbent Sebastian Loeb) with three races left, in his 315bhp, 4WD Polo R, and VW look set to take the team title too.

Who's Where: Jason Castriota joins Stile Bertone

Contrary to what was previously disclosed, Car Design News has now confirmed that Jason Castriota, who left his position at Pininfarina on the eve of the Paris Motor Show in September, is set to become Design Director at Stile Bertone. He will start his new position on December 1. Castriota had initially intended to set up his own design consultancy before being approached by Bertone.

Dramatic design on tap for next-generation model

Jaguar’s next-generation XJ luxury sedan will incorporate design features from the C-XF concept first shown at Detroit, AutoWeek has learned. Although prototypes captured by spy photographers are disguised with BMW-style grilles, the face of the new 2010 XJ will feature Jag’s gaping square grille and a curvaceous body with a rakish, coupelike rear window. The final XJ incorporates slim headlights with double-projector lenses that are very close in design to those revealed on the dramatic C-XF shown at the 2007 North American International Auto Show.