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BMW's new M engine needs a better voice

BMW's M division claims its new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine is every bit as good -- if not better -- than the glorious, naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 powerplant it replaces in the new M3 sedan and M4 coupe. The figures are certainly impressive. They say it kicks out 424 hp and more than 25 percent extra torque, with what is described as significantly more than 369 lb-ft below 2,000 rpm.

Safety probe: BMW 7-series rolling away in 'park'

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating a potential problem with BMW 7-series sedans of not properly shifting into park. The issue sparked NHTSA's concern when it received a complaint that a 2006-model-year 7-series rolled away after the owner parked and exited the vehicle. BMW also submitted similar incident reports in which other 7-series cars rolled away from their owners.

Alfa Romeo 4C

The production version of the Alfa Romeo 4C will make its debut at next month's Geneva motor show, two years after the concept appeared. Largely unchanged from the prototype, the 4C retains its mid-engined layout, short and wide proportions (less than 4,000mm long, 2,000mm wide, 1,180mm high and a 2,400mm wheelbase) and broadly similar surfacing. The changes appear to be more focused around productionized details.