Rugged Ridge 18267.01 on 2040-parts.com

Fiat 500XL spied undisguised – it’s not a looker

The Fiat 500 range has already expanded from the very successful recreation of the original 500 in to something bigger and more family friendly with the 500L, and now we have the joy of an even bigger version on the way – the Fiat 500XL. The 500L managed to lose almost all of the chic retro appeal the 500 managed so convincingly, and it looks like the 500XL goes a step further, with looks that only its mother could love. Grafting an extra 200mm on the back of the 500L perhaps seems like a good idea, but the execution doesn’t sit well.

GM and Bezalel Academy of Art and Design develop Windows of Opportunity smart glass tech [w/video]

General Motors' Research and Development has collaborated with Bezalel Academy of Art and Design's Future Lab students to conceptualize new ways in which rear seat passengers – who traditionally feel disconnected from their environment – have a richer experience on the road. The result is the Windows of Opportunity project, a series of applications developed by the Bezalel students and built into full-size prototypes using multi-touch and gesture sensing surfaces developed by ClickEye. The projects were: – Otto an animated character projected over passing scenery that responds to real-time car performance, weather and landscape.

Alfa MiTo Sportiva & Giulietta Sportiva added to range

Alfa Romeo has added a new trim level in the UK – Sportiva – for both the Alfa MiTo and the Alfa Giulietta. Two cars we like very much – depending on trim and engine – are the Alfa Romeo MiTo and Giulietta. Both offer style and fun at decent prices and make a nice change from Teutonic sameness.