Crane Valve Spring 96845-16 on 2040-parts.com

Hyundai i30 (2011) at Frankfurt motor show

Hyundai is showing off the new i30 hatchback at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show. It's the first of the Hyundai-Kia twins - the new Kia Ceed lands in spring 2012. The i30 is Hyundai's C-segment Focus rival, and its replacement marks the start of a challenging new era for Hyundai; the i30 was the first car to wear the 'i' prefix, and its subsequent replacement means the company has come full circle.

BMW looks to patent seven-speed lockout manual transmission

The intrepid Bimmerphiles over at www.e90post.com have uncovered a few drawings from BMW's latest patent request. The drawing shows a new transmission linkage and what looks to be a seven-speed manual transmission. Like the new Porsche 911, the BMW gear shifter has six gears in standard H pattern, with a seventh gear out to the right.

Luxury car buyers get kid-glove treatment from dealerships

Luxury vehicle buyers want service -- not just repairs done right, but the kind of pampering they get at high-end hotels, restaurants and boutiques. It's all about the extras. In response, luxury vehicle brands are stepping up their games, rolling out unprecedented customer service, training staff and reconfiguring showrooms to cater to these buyers.