Ford Falcon Au1 Grille on 2040-parts.com

Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost sets 16 world speed records

The new Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost has set 16 world speed records in two days of testing at the CERAM test circuit in Mortefontaine. Who’d have thought that a little 3-cylinder engine in a Ford Focus could ever be an appealing prospect? But it’s become very clear that Ford’s little boosted 3-pot is quite the star and, for almost anyone who does a normal mileage, by far the choice over a diesel-engined Focus.

Nissan pilots digital car manual

NISSAN has brought the humble car manual into the 21st Century with a new smartphone app that contains everything drivers need, including warning light recognition. The ‘iManual’ system is being trialled with the Micra manual, since Nissan has judged that the stylish supermini’s owners are the most likely to adopt and use the iPhone- and Android-compatible app. It squeezes the paper manual’s entire contents into an easy-to-manage format that users can access anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection.

New Kia Soul for 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

The new second-generation Kia Soul crossover will make its European debut at next month’s 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, boasting increased practicality and improved efficiency over its predecessor. Based on the latest Kia Ceed hatchback platform, the new car goes on sale in the UK early in 2014, with prices expected to start around £13,000. The 2014 Kia Soul will be available with the firm’s latest 133hp 1.6-litre petrol and 126hp 1.6-litre turbodiesel engines.