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Porsche is developing a new four-cylinder engine set to power entry-level model

High-ranking officials at Porsche's Weissach research and development center in Germany have confirmed that engineering work is progressing on a four-cylinder horizontally opposed gasoline engine, details of which were first revealed by Autoweek earlier this year. The new boxer unit--which is earmarked to power a new mid-engine, entry-level model that insiders describe as a spiritual successor to the iconic 550 Spyder--looks set to become an integral part of Porsche's future model plans. Insiders suggest it will also be offered on the third-generation Boxster and the second-generation Cayman later on in their respective model cycles.

2013 Ford Mondeo production delayed

It’s reported that the 2013 Ford Mondeo – due to debut at the Paris Motor Show in September – will not go in to production until Q3 2013. The 2013 Ford Mondeo – which is pretty much the same car as the new Ford Fusion in the US – was expected to arrive at the Geneva Motor Show in March. That it didn’t was a bit odd, especially as it’s colonial cousin, the 2013 Ford Fusion, was revealed at the Detroit Auto Show in January.

Future products: Kia seeks lively, upscale look

Kia's redesigned Optima sedan and the Cadenza replacement for the Amanti, both due next year, reflect an emphasis on creating a livelier and more upscale look for the once-bland brand. Indeed, styling has been a crucial element of Kia's new-product push in the past 18 months. The team at Kia Design Center America near Los Angeles--part of the automaker's global design network led by onetime Audi design chief Peter Schreyer--has helped set the new styling direction.