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New Mercedes-Benz V-Class (2014): world’s most luxurious MPV

Not often we get excited about a van-based people carrier, but in the case of the brand new 2014 Mercedes-Benz V-Class MPV we will make a worthy exception. Unveiled at a swanky do last night, the new V-Class replaces the Viano, and in the process becomes the most luxurious factory built eight-seater MPV we have ever seen. Seriously – there’s tech from the latest Mercedes S-Class in here.

Who's Where: Dave Rand resigns from Changan Automobile

Dave Rand, the former General Motors Design Chief, has resigned from the Chinese State-owned automaker after joining the company last October. Rand's resignation, which was made official last week, follows that of his senior at Changan, Ken Ma who stepped down as Vice President of Design earlier this year. It is not clear precisely why both men have decided to leave the Chinese carmaker, but several people familiar with the situation have said that both Rand and Ma's departures are connected with Changan Auto's recent financial difficulties.

A look at Toyota future products

Toyota has slipped behind competitors in drivetrain technology and now must play catch-up against the likes of Ford, Hyundai and Mazda. Much of Toyota's lag stems from engineering resources being diverted by the unintended acceleration crisis and other quality miscues in the past two years. Now expect Toyota to focus more on turbocharging and direct injection, and it may even bring a couple of diesels to the United States as part of midcycle changes.