Ford debuts another Australian hot rod

Ford's Australian-based Performance Vehicles operation has unveiled its fastest car to date—the Falcon-based FPV GT R-spec. To be assembled at Ford Performance Vehicle's headquarters on the outskirts of Melbourne, the rear-wheel drive GT R-spec packs the same engine as the earlier GT335, a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 producing 449 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. But, a range of chassis modifications, including a retuned suspension, wider 19-inch rear wheels and tires and new launch control system are claimed to provide the greater off-the-line speed than any previous model from Ford's Australian outpost.

Senate committee sends auto-safety bill to the floor for vote

The Senate Commerce Committee voted today to pass a far-reaching vehicle safety bill that has largely won both automaker and consumer support, sending the measure to the full Senate. The bill passed without objections from any senators. The legislation, crafted in the wake of Toyota's safety recalls this year, resembles a House bill that also is now on the floor of that chamber.

VW Golf Mk6 (2009): first photos

By Tom Richards First Official Pictures 06 August 2008 09:56 This is the sixth-generation Volkswagen Golf - officially unveiled today after a string of leaks - with new looks inspired by the Scirocco and a higher-quality interior. But underneath the new Golf's mildly warmed-over looks, the platform is still from the current Mk5 car. Are the Golf Mk6's visual nips and tucks, plus revised engines and new technology, enough to beat competition from the facelifted Ford Focus and the all-new Megane?