Mustang 75754 Vintage Solo 13 1/2" Seat Harley Davidson Fxd 96-03 on 2040-parts.com

Volkswagen plans 4 million cars from one platform

Volkswagen is pushing the global-platform concept to a level unprecedented in the auto industry, introducing a modular platform this summer that eventually will be the basis of microcars, sedans, crossovers and SUVs for its four largest brands. While automakers now share platforms across brands and sometimes even segments, the VW initiative that starts this summer is far more ambitious than anything seen so far. By 2017, some analysts estimate, the MQB platform that debuts with the Audi A3 eventually will be used in 4 million units a year--close to half of VW's annual production.

Bentley Continental GT Speed (2012) first pictures

For the would-be Bentley Continenal owner who can't bring themselves to stoop to the level of the entry-level V8 model, and feel the standard W12 car is too slow, Bentley has created a new Continental GT Speed. Designed to appeal to more driving-focused Bentley customers, there's a package of mechanical, cosmetic and interior changes to push the Conti into full-on supercar territory. So, is the Bentley Continental GT Speed faster than before?

VW Phaeton - the new one coming in 2015

A brand new Volkswagen Phaeton Mk2 will be launched in 2015, based on a new architecture being masterminded by cousins Audi. Dubbed VW631, the new VW Phaeton will be based on MLM Evo (modular longitudinal matrix) which makes provision for a plug-in hybrid option, an aluminium-intensive body structure and a much more advanced and less nose-heavy dynamic layout. Although VW chairman Martin Winterkorn has in the past black-flagged the Avantissimo (A8-based) and the Passat Variant Plus (A6-derived), there is still a lot to be said for a second more practical bodystyle in addition to the four-door notch which is almost compulsory in this segment.