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VW to intro Passat BlueMotion Concept at Detroit auto show

While performance heads are anxiously awaiting the North American debut of the hot-heat Mk VII Golf R at the Detroit auto show, Volkswagen's Passat BlueMotion Concept offers never-before technology in the Yank/Canuck family sedan segment: a four-pot motor with cylinder deactivation. Based on the EA211 1.4L turbo motor we sampled last year in the Euro-market Audi A3 sedan, the Passat BlueMotion Concept's engine is capable of shutting down the middle two cylinders during cruise, and features the Jetta Hybrid's gearbox, a twin-clutch unit capable of decoupling from the engine during off-throttle coasting. In the Passat's application, the 1.4 puts out 150 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque; VW suggests its highway fuel economy will stand at 42 mpg.

GM car, OnStar apps now available

Owners of 2011 Chevrolet models can now download the myChevrolet and OnStar MyLink apps, giving them the ability to start their engines, unlock and lock their vehicles and read their owner's manuals, among other services, from their iPhone or Android devices. The free downloads at www.apple.com or www.android.com became available on Friday. The app gives the Chevy owner the ability to scan the VIN with the device camera to get specific vehicle information and answers to common questions.

Council parking ‘spy car’ gets speeding ticket

A council-owned ‘spy car’ designed to catch people parking their vehicles unlawfully has been snapped travelling over the speed limit. Dorset police officers recorded the parking enforcement camera car travelling at 36mph in a 30mph area, handing the driver a £100 on-the-spot fine and three penalty points on their licence, according to the Bournemouth Echo. On Bing: see pictures of camera cars Cameras to catch illegal parking on the school run The speeder was given the option of attending a £110 speed awareness course, however, which could mean the motorist manages to evade the points.