Americans plan to keep their cars longer, AutoPacific study finds

In another chilling sign that auto sales are likely to remain stalled, a new study finds that Americans intend to keep their cars longer, indicating a general concern about the industry and the overall economy. The number of new-car buyers planning to keep their rides more than four years has risen to 59 percent, according to a study released Tuesday by California marketing research firm AutoPacific. That's an increase from last year, when about 45 percent of new buyers intended to wait more than four years for their next purchase, and it's up from 2005's tally of 46 percent.

Audi S3 Cabriolet for 2014 Geneva Motor Show

The Audi S3 Cabriolet will make its public debut at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show next month. The range-topping version of the new A3 Cabriolet uses the same powertrain as the S3 hatchback, Sportback and saloon variants, with a 300hp turbocharged engine driving all four wheels. Audi quotes a 0-62mph time of just 5.4 seconds for the S3 Cabriolet, which will be available to order from April, with the first UK deliveries expected in July.

60mph speed limit plans axed in favour of smart motorways

Government plans announced early this year to reduce air pollution caused by vehicle emissions by reducing the speed limit on a 32-mile stretch of the M1 have been shelved. The proposals involved lowering the speed limit from 70mph to 60mph, from junction 28 of the M1, near Matlock in Derbyshire, to junction 35a, north of Rotherham. MSN readers back 80mph limit on UK motorways UK motorway to charge moving electric cars But Transport Minister Patrick McLoughlin will announce later today that blanket reductions of speed limits are not the answer, and alternative solutions to improving air quality must be found.