Euro NCAP finds quadricycles had “severe safety problems”

Euro NCAP has branched out from cars and crash tested a small selection of “heavy quadricycles”  – small, four-wheeled vehicles that were originally developed from motorcycles that are sometimes also known as microcars, and don’t come under the usual car regulations. Although legal for use on the road, these machines do not need to achieve the same rigorous crash test safety standards as ordinary cars. But they are increasingly seen as a fuel-efficient urban transportation alternative, and some of them can be driven teenagers as young as 16.

Dacia Logan and Sandero [w/Galleries]

Dacia has released images of its new Logan sedan and the Sandero hatchback models ahead of their world debuts at next week's Paris motor show. The new Sandero and Logan feature design cues intended to give a more assertive look, in line with the hugely popular Duster. A larger grille with more prominent horizontal inserts feature on both models to emphasize the Dacia logo.

Alfa Romeo going to the USA

Alfa Romeo is going back to the US for the first time in almost 20 years We already know that the only Fiat making its way to the US is the Fiat 500, but it now looks as if a big chunk of the Alfa Romeo range will make the journey too. Sergio Marchionne, Fiat’s boss and the new head of Chrysler, has been working on rationalising Chrysler’s management and working out the best way forward. As mentioned, only the Fiat 500 will be offered for sale in America (and probably built in Mexico), with Fiat platforms being used to build new Chryslers that will be designed and built in the States.