Renault Megane Sport Tourer Extreme launched

Renault has introduced a new entry-level Megane Estate - the Renault Megane Sport Tourer Extreme It sounds as if a Renault Megane Sport Tourer Extreme should be a rival for a Renaultsport, but it’s not. It’s the new entry-level package on the Megane Sport Tourer. But there’s nothing wrong with that, even if the ‘Extreme’ designation is a bit of an oxymoron (unless you think of it in terms of at the bottom extreme of the range).

Italy auctions government cars

OFFERS started rolling in on unneeded government Alfa Romeo, Lancia and BMW cars, which prime minister Matteo Renzi is auctioning off on eBay as a sign of his seriousness in tackling government waste. Renzi has pledged to sell 151 vehicles by April 16, saying he was taking a cue from the former mayor of Florence - himself - who auctioned off four cars early in his term. Besides cashing in, the government will save on upkeep, maintenance and running costs.

Chevrolet Sonic at the 2011 Detroit auto show

One of GM's numerous debuts at the 2011 Detroit auto show was this: the Chevrolet Sonic. Shown as a hatchback and four-door notchback, it's one of The General's weapons to tackle the now-globalised Ford Fiesta and its ilk. Good spot. That's because this is the US-spec Aveo - albeit shown in US-only notchback form as well as the more Euro-flavoured hatchback.