Rio 2015 Seat, Front 37032 on 2040-parts.com

Google reveals its first self-driving car prototype (video)

Google’s first self-driving car prototype (pictured) Google might not be the first company that springs to mind as a car maker, but Tesla has already proved that Silicon Valley can produce a car that buyers want and Google are intent on following a similar route. But where Tesla’s USP is its long-range electric capabilities – and a desire to build cars for the market – Google’s goal is more technology orientated and is all about developing self-driving car technology that works in the real world. For the last few years, Google has been experimenting with existing cars kitted out with self-driving gubbins, but now they’ve taken the next step and built their own self-driving prototype.

BMW to offer four-cylinder diesels in North America to improve fuel efficiency

BMW will offer four-cylinder diesel engines in North America as it seeks to improve fuel efficiency and match the performance of its current six-cylinder gasoline engines. BMW is considering diesels in a range of models, including its 1 series, 3 series and 5 series sedans and possibly the X3 crossover and Z4 roadster, said Tom Baloga, vice president of engineering for BMW of North America. "You're going to see it in the 3 series, and the 5 series is a good possibility," Baloga said.

2015 Volkswagen Touareg unveiled prior to Beijing motor show debut

Volkswagen has given the second-generation Touareg an update, and it's bringing the refreshed SUV to the Beijing motor show next week. The Touareg has been a solid global success for Volkswagen with over 720,000 units sold, despite all the ink expended discussing its pricing (especially compared to the rest of the automaker's range), and the company has spent quite a bit of time and money updating the Touareg for the 2015 model year. So what's new inside and out?