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For new CAFE rules, automakers place high-stakes tech bets

Game-changing 2015 fuel economy rules are forcing vehicle development teams to make high-stakes bets on expensive technologies--bets that will separate the winners from the also-rans. Not only do federal rules target a 2015 fleet average of 35.5 mpg, up from the current 27.5 mpg for cars and 23.1 mpg for light trucks; they force automakers to bet on different technology packages for each vehicle segment. Companies that do best at mixing technologies while keeping down costs will have an advantage when buyers wince at higher stickers.

Subaru Cross Sport Concept Bows at Tokyo

With little fanfare Subaru showed two promising concepts at the Tokyo show, both based on iconic Subaru performance cars. The Cross Sport Design Concept is an SUV/wagon body that rides on BRZ mechanicals. Think of it as a BRZ wagon, offering the nimble tossability of the sporty BRZ coupe with the roomy practicality of a wagon.

December debut for Bentley GT3 racer

THE CONTINENTAL GT3 racing car will make its competitive debut at December’s Gulf 12 Hours race in Abu Dhabi, it has been confirmed. The 600bhp, twin-turbo V8 racer is the first Bentley model to hit the race track since 2003, when the Crewe-based outfit won the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This time Bentley will, officially at least, only use the two-part endurance race as a test to gauge the performance of the Continental GT3 ahead of a full entry into the 2014 FIA Blancpain GT3 racing championship.