Bmw E60 535i, 528i, 550i, 2007-2010 Lci Driver Round Airbag 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.

Volkswagen to launch budget brand, priced from £4800

Volkswagen is planning to launch a new budget brand to challenge the likes of Dacia – and the bargain basement minis will be sold in Europe too. Prices for the yet-nameless new cheap VWs will start from just €6000, or £4800, according to paperwork seen by CAR. How can VW build city cars so cheaply?

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish: New photos and new video

The new Aston Martin Vanquish is heading for Paris 2012 and Aston Martin has released new photos and video of their range-topper. The 2013 Vanquish gets extra power – it now delivers 565bhp and 456lb/ft of torque – which propels it to 62mph in 4.1 seconds and on to 183mph, sharper new looks with hints of the One-77 and lots of carbon fibre, and a new list price that is still the right side of £200k – £189,995. And perhaps delivering new photos and video of the 2013 Vanquish is Aston Martin’s way of making sure the Vanquish has its moment in the sun ahead of the reveal of the new DB9.