Detroit Diesel Rocker Arm - 5150305 on 2040-parts.com

Carbon-fiber parts and a software fix help create a lighter, faster Fiat

Chrysler Group's Mopar parts brand and Italian supplier Magneti Marelli have teamed up on a design exercise based on the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth that shaved weight and added horsepower. The vehicle, called the Venom, has a number of carbon fiber components -- hood and side mirrors, for example -- that makes it about 200 pounds lighter than the 2,512-pound Abarth. The Venom uses software updates and additional exhaust components to boost the Abarth's standard 160-hp 1.4-liter turbocharged engine's output by as much as 25 percent.

Guy Ritchie wrecks Top Gear Cars

Guy Richie wrecks four Top Gear Cars in SIARPC There have been one or two ‘Stars in a reasonably priced car’ who seem intent on wrecking the Top Gear car. Most of those have been our Colonial cousins who don’t understand the concept of using your left foot to change gear, nor do they seem to understand that you also need to use your left hand in sync with your left foot to do so. We shouldn’t mock the afflicted – no discrimination at Cars UK.

Kia Soul'ster opens up for Detroit auto show

Kia rolls out a possible next member of its youth market-targeting Soul family at the Detroit Auto Show . Taking a page from the roadster playbook, the Soul'ster concept drops a set of doors from the Soul SUV, which goes on sale this spring, shortens the windshield and adds a two-piece removable top. Roll bars offer occupants additional protection not normally found on convertibles, and house a slider track cargo system.