Optima Batteries 8020-164 Redtop; Battery on 2040-parts.com

Honda introduces dual-clutch hybrid transmissions

Honda explained its three new hybrid transmission options on Monday. There's one for small cars, one for plug-ins and one high-performance unit, which we assume will be in the next Acura NSX. Amazingly, none are continuously variable.

VW Polo R WRC (2011): Volkswagen enters the WRC

This be-spoilered supermini is the new VW Polo R WRC, Volkwagen’s entry into the 2013 FIA World Rally Championship. Unveiled today in Sardinia ahead of Rally d'Italia Sardegna, it's a 300bhp, four-wheel drive hot hatch that's going to take on Ford, Citroen et al on the world's toughest mud, gravel and snow Special Stages. VW Polo R WRC, huh?

Kia Sportage and Soul recall – affects 7000 UK cars

5,787 UK Kia Sportage models (pictured) are being recalled. Recalls are a fact of life for car makers, but at least the industry now tries to respond to problems as they arise, and before they cause damage to people of vehicles. This latest recall comes from Kia in the UK, which is recalling a total of 5,785 Sportage models and 1.432 Soul models to address a problem that ha been identified with the seat belt pre-tensioner mechanism.