Chevrolet Automatic Transmission Shift Knob Shifter Handle (black) 006 on 2040-parts.com

Tomorrow’s world: Fiat's MultiAir engine tech

By Jesse Crosse Motor Industry 14 October 2009 16:50 Fiat this year launches what it claims is a big step forward in variable valve timing: MultiAir. It's the first time that a manufacturer has made a properly variable valve system a production reality, and will slowly be rolled out across most of Fiat's and Alfa's car ranges.How does Fiat's MultiAir vary from existing variable valve timing (VVT) systems?Current VVT systems rely on mechanical systems to open and close the valves. Engineers have long understood the benefits of changing valve opening and closing times to tweak an engine's power and emissions performance, depending on the need for power or parsimony.Valves are an engine's nose and mouth – it inhales through inlet valves and exhales through exhaust valves.

Vauxhall Antara facelift (2010) first official pics

Vauxhall's Antara has had a mid-life crisis. Sorry, we mean facelift. There's a new look - and a £3000 price cut.

Chevrolet Orlando (2011) first official pictures

This is the face of Chevrolet's new Orlando, a seven-seat MPV which will take on the likes of Ford's S-Max and the Mazda 5. The Orlando is based on GM's Delta platform which has already given birth to the latest Vauxhall Astra, and of course, Chevrolet's own Cruze. Not this time.