Freightliner M2 Instrument Cluster Pn: A22-61959-047 on 2040-parts.com

First sight: Volkswagen Passat (2015)

In recent years, European buyers have been switching their mid-size sedans and wagons for smaller cars, crossovers and SUVs. The Volkswagen Passat, Europe's most successful company car, has defined this market segment pretty much since it arrived back in 1973, and this latest, eighth-generation model has been designed to attempt to reverse that buying trend. When we catch up with design director Dr Klaus Bischoff at the car's unveiling, he's certainly confident that the new car represents a significant step forward.

Audi R8

Audi has unveiled the new R8 supercar, closely based on the Le Mans concept that was shown three years ago in Frankfurt. The two-seat car uses a shortened version of the Lamborghini Gallardo platform, and is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 using FSI technology first introduced by the A2. Like the now-obsolete small car the R8 is also constructed of an aluminum space-frame, keeping weight down to 1360kg.

Motorist Still At Wheel With Record Points Tally

THE Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has discovered a motorist has accrued a record 45 penalty points on his driving licence in a nine-month period and is still on the road. Obtaining the figures from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) following a Freedom of Information Act request, the IAM has uncovered the worrying tale of a driver from Liverpool who racked up the points tally for eight offences of either failing to disclose the identity of the driver or for speeding between October 1 2012 and June 20 2013. His total exceeded the previous still-driving record of 42 points.