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Lexus wants more hybrids and a better performance image

Lexus plans to introduce hybrid versions of existing vehicles with each full model change, the brand's r&d chief says. Leveraging the electric-gasoline drivetrain technology of Lexus' parent company, Toyota, will be key to differentiating the brand from European rivals, said Kiyotaka Ise, Toyota Motor Corp. managing officer in charge of Lexus development.

Maybach is dead - Zetsche closes Merc's upmarket wing

Daimler is to announce the closure of Maybach, marking the failure of its upmarket division resurrected to battle BMW's Rolls-Royce and VW's Bentley subsidiaries. Chief exec Dieter Zetsche will tomorrow (Saturday 26 November) announce he's lost patience with Maybach in an interview with a weekend newspaper in Germany. No more Maybachs will be developed and stocks will deplete by later in 2012.

Vauxhall Cascada: Price from £23,995

The Vauxhall Cascada – Vauxhall’s new four-seat convertible – will cost from £23,995 and arrives in Vauxhall showrooms in April 2013. Starting at £23,995 for the Cascada SE with the 1.4 litre petrol and rising to £29,115 for the Cascada Elite with a 2.0 litre diesel and auto ‘box, the Cascada certainly offers a lot of full-size convertible for the money. There are just two trim levels available – Cascada SE and Cascada Elite – with the SE coming with 18″ alloys, LED tail lights, DAB, rear parking sensors and USB, The Elite adds in stuff like leather, heated seats, Climate and steering wheel and fog lights.