Engine Connecting Rod Bearing Set Dnj Rb400 on 2040-parts.com

Inside the Mini compound

Visitors surrender their passports upon entering Mini headquarters in Germany. It's for security reasons mainly, and obviously the passports are returned on the way out. But the symbolism is obvious: Mini is a world a way from parent BMW.

2014 Kia Soul “Red Zone” takes it to the house

Kia Motors America announced its first special edition for the second generation 2014 Soul, dubbed “Red Zone.” This quirky, boxy compact car will get a head-to-toe makeover, taking inspiration and design cues from the 2012 Chicago Auto Show favorite, the Track'ster concept. The exterior of the Soul gets bright white paint, accented by pops of red. The grille, front and rear fascias and side skirts also will receive the distinguished red embellishments, adding to what Kia describes as “the aggressively styled body kit.” Custom 18-inch alloy wheels complete the “Red Zone” makeover.

New Altima, Fusion challenge Camry and Accord for sales dominance

The Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion have entered the thick of the midsize sedan sales chase -- long a battle mainly between the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord -- leaving the rest of the pack a few laps behind. The also-rans include the Chevrolet Malibu and Hyundai Sonata. A lackluster design has hampered sales of the Malibu, and short supplies have held back the Sonata.