Sierra 233664 Thermostat Kit / Thermostat Kit-kohler on 2040-parts.com

New Ford Mondeo to get new 1.5 litre EcoBoost engine

The new EcoBoost engine will also be turning up in the Ford Fusion for North America, but the UK and Europe are going to have to wait until at least the end of 2014 – when we get the new Mondeo - before the new engine is on offer. The 1.5 litre EcoBoost offers improved economy and emissions compared to the 1.6 litre currently available  - with similar power, performance and torque compared –  but one of the main reasons for offering it is that many countries offer tax breaks for engines under 1.5 litres. The new engine will be built by Ford In Romania initially (although it will get churned out elsewhere too in due course) and offers turbocharging, direct fuel injection and variable valve timing.

Alfa Romeo at Geneva Motor Show: Alfa Giulietta

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta debuts at the Geneva Motor Show With only a few days to go until the Geneva Motor Show kicks off, Alfa Romeo has revealed the replacement for the Alfa 147 – the Alfa Romeo Giulietta – in more detail. Yes, we had the first photos of the Giulietta when we didn’t know (and sadly, nor did Alfa) whether this would be the 147 or the 148 or the Milano. But it’s the Alfa Giulietta.

Cost of garage labour falling

THE AVERAGE labour rate at both franchised and non-franchised garages has fallen compared to 2012, according to new figures. An annual survey of 12,000 cases conducted on behalf of Warranty Direct has concluded that the average labour rate in 2013 is £74.70, a fall of 9.84% from £82.86 in 2012. Less encouraging is the overall trend of rising labour rates, with the average having increased by 33% over the last ten years.