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

Mercedes introduces illuminated three-pointed star [w/video]

Illuminated badges and emblems on cars aren't a new idea – those old enough to remember will recall the warm glow of the old Wolseley grille emblems – but in recent history they have been the reserve of concept cars and the aftermarket. Mercedes is set to restart the trend however as it begins to offer an LED-illuminated star as a dealer-fit option on the E–, GL–, M– and CLS–Class. We've started to see lighting spill out onto the exterior of concept cars for a while and this move is sure to have other OEMs and aftermarket firms alike following Mercedes' lead.

Lexus IS-C Convertible gets F-Sport options.

Lexus has launched a range of F-Sport accessories for the new Lexus IS Convertible With the Lexus IS Convertible having launched in Japan this week, and the Lexus IS 250C arriving in the UK in July (and the Lexus IS 350C to arrive sometime next year), Lexus are looking for ways to ‘Up-sell’ the range, particularly as it looks like it will totally eclipse the woeful SC430. With prices starting from low £30k, there is no doubt a big push to get people to spec up their cars. And what better way than to offer some nice Lexus F-Sport bits and pieces to bolt on to your new pride and joy.

Subaru BRZ Concept STI teases production BRZ at L.A.

Subaru BRZ Concept STI at the Los Angeles Auto Show The Subaru BRZ (and for that matter its sibling, the Toyota FT-86) has been floating around in one form or another as a concept for years. And at Los Angeles we get treated to yet another ‘Concept’ version – the Subaru BRZ Concept STI. Which does seem a bit odd; after all, the production version of the BRZ is scheduled to arrive later this month at the Tokyo Motor Show, and we know from the teaser shots Subaru sent us of the production BRZ that there are changes from this Concept.