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

New diesel engine for revised Meriva

VAUXHALL’s clever Meriva compact MPV is to benefit from a new 1.6-litre diesel engine. The quieter, smoother and more efficient engine replaces the aging 1.7-litre unit that had been in service across the Vauxhall, Chevrolet and other General Motors brands for many years. This is the second application for the new engine, following its debut in the much larger Zafira Tourer.

Kia Motors appoints Peter Schreyer as President

Kia Motors has appointed the man who changed their design – former VW man Perter Schreyer – as President. When Peter Schreyer left VW in 2006 after a sparkling career that saw him establish the Audi design philosophy – still a hallmark of Audi design – to head up design at stodgy Kia, many in the industry thought it an odd move. But Peter Schreyer seemed keen to prove his worth after VW had passed him over to head up their new design studio, and Kia offered the prospect of turning a budget brand in to a mainstream force with cutting edge designs and, it would seem, a pretty free hand to do what it would take.

BASF annual color trend report

Materials giant BASF has presented the findings of its annual color trend report, created by a team of designers scouting out global textile and furniture trade shows for information. And while some may think color trends are simply at the whim of designers, BASF's report identifies influences such as socio-political climate, interior design, architecture, technology and pop culture. 'Green luxury' is not an oxymoron The trend towards blues is continuing, while earthy tones and colors also reflect ecological awareness.