Engine Crankshaft Pulley Dorman 594-316 on 2040-parts.com

Rapid Response Required To Snap Up Limited-Run Skoda

THE RAPID might only have recently hit the showrooms but Skoda has been quick to wheel out two special editions of its entry-level hatchback. Boasting unique features and extra equipment worth thousands of pounds, the first of the extra special pairing is the Rapid SE Connect. It's based on the Rapid 1.2-litre 86 horsepower TSI SE, but with the addition of extra kit worth a wallet-friendly £3,665.

Opel Astra OPC Extreme debuts before Geneva

The Geneva motor show starts next week, which means we get to see an awesome selection of cars that will never come to our shores. On Wednesday, Opel added the Astra OPC Extreme to that category, which now includes the Jaguar XFR-S Sportbrake, Volkswagen Polo and Aston Martin Vantage N430, among others. The Astra OPC Extreme is 220 pounds lighter than the already-hot OPC, thanks to the use of carbon fiber.

Alfa Romeo to launch 8 new cars in next 4 years – Alfa MiTo to be dropped

The Alfa Romeo Gloria (pictured) could point to a new Giulia Alfa Romeo has been stuck in the doldrums for quite a while, and is now in the sorry state of having just two cars on sale – the Alfa MiTo and Alfa Giulietta – both compact cars and both with front wheel drive. Not really Alfas, although they’re better than you might expect. But in a brave plan to turn Alfa Romeo in to a proper force again – a plan we reported was on the cards a year ago – Sergio Marchionne has revealed that Alfa is planning to launch eight new cars in the next four years and concentrate on proper RWD cars with proper driver appeal.