Chrysler Oem Ya03tzzaa Exterior-rocker Molding on 2040-parts.com

New BMW 3-series bows, performance-oriented 335iS joins the lineup

A new performance-oriented 335iS model endowed with an M-sport styling kit and unique chassis settings heads the list of changes BMW brings to its facelifted 2011 3-series coupe and convertible. Set to slot into the lineup between an upgraded 335i and the M3 when it goes on sale in March as an exclusive for North America, the 335iS runs a tuned version of BMW's N54 engine, as found in the recently unveiled Z4 sDrive35iS, coupled to either a standard six-speed manual or an optional Getrag-engineered seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine of the 335iS adds a special software package to bump power to 326 hp and lift torque to 332 lb-ft--or to an even gutsier 369 lb-ft for short periods via an overboost function that unleashes added turbocharger boost pressure.

Karmann-Ghia launches contest for Brazilian design students

Karmann-Ghia has launched a competition for Brazilian students to design a modern interpretation of its classic Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia Coupé. Students will be competing for a top prize of R$100,000 (US$49,750) with the possibility that the winning design will be developed into a prototype. The student awarded second place will earn themselves R$60,000 (US$29,800) while the third placed entry is worth R$14,884 (US$7,350).

Lincoln, Chrysler score high in AutoPacific satisfaction survey

Lincoln and Chrysler were the top-ranked brands in AutoPacific's national customer-satisfaction survey for 2011. This was the 15th installment of the annual survey, measuring which brands do the best job keeping customers happy. Lincoln snagged Highest Satisfaction Premium Brand and Chrysler won Highest Satisfaction Popular Brand this year.