Matco Tools Locking Adjustable Self-gripping Plier 12c New (knipex Technology) on 2040-parts.com

Toyota's global design chief Tokuo Fukuichi appointed president of Lexus

Toyota's global design chief Tokuo Fukuichi will be the first designer to sit on the company's board of directors when his appointment comes into effect on 1 April. Fukuichi will retain his position as global head of design for the Toyota, Lexus and Scion brands and will join the board after the general shareholders' meeting. His influence on Toyota's design direction over the last few years has been noticeable, particularly with Lexus, as the company strives to make its traditionally very conservative products a little more exciting.

Aston Martin DBS R in the works?

Are Aston Martin working on a DBSR - an uprated DBS? If the rumours are true, and we’re starting to think they are, then the DBS will be following in the footsteps of its predecessor – the Aston Martin Vanquish. The Vanq got an upgrade package after a few years to the Vanquish S (but it seems unlikely that AM will dub the upgraded DBS the DBS S, but who knows?).

Redesigned Opel Astra revealed ahead of Frankfurt rollout

Opel, General Motors' financially embattled European subsidiary, has ripped the covers from its sixth-generation Astra ahead of the car's planned debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September. The five-door hatchback traditionally is one of Europe's best-selling models and originally was expected to play an important role in the Saturn lineup in the United States. Under GM's pared-down lineup, the Astra's Delta 2 chassis is likely provide the underpinnings for a small Buick, initially in China, and then in the United States, depending on market conditions.