Clc 5141 Contractor's Notepad Holder -5141 on 2040-parts.com

Upcoming Volvo XC90 gets new safety tech

The Volvo XC90 has been with us for 10 years now -- a long time indeed when it comes to product life cycles of comparable upmarket SUVs. The stylish sport utility was a popular seller in North America for a good part of that decade, and for a while was even offered with a 4.4 liter V8 engine developed by Yamaha and shared with the second-gen S80 (a first for a Volvo passenger car). But if there's one thing Volvo is known for, it's not V8 engines -- it's safety.

Maserati shows Alfieri concept at the Geneva motor show

It's named the Alfieri concept, which Maserati will be the first to tell you is not the "Guyfieri." Otherwise, it'd come with a golden roof, a Ferrari V8 slathered in beer batter, and a deep-fried interior reeking of Cheetos and desperation. Make that balsamic vinegar, according to Maserati, the dark condiment evidently imbued with "a centenary tradition of craftsmanship and passion." Much like Maserati's celebration of its 100-year history at this Geneva auto show, as represented by the silver ingot shown above. Indeed the Alfieri concept, a gorgeous wide-grilled sports car more in line with the Porsche 911 than its own GranTurismo, is a celebration of Alfieri Maserati, one of the five brothers who founded the eponymous company.

Nissan updates GT-R for Europe

Now that the initial excitement over the GT-R has died down, Nissan has launched a round of improvements aimed at improving its reliability, comfort and yes, even its ability to plaster a smile across your face. Apparently so. Changes to spring and damper rates improve the pretty woeful ride comfort but also the handling, says Nissan, thanks to more accurate control of suspension movements.