Vaico V700694 on 2040-parts.com

Volkswagen takes stake in Suzuki

VW takes a 19.9% stake in Suzuki We’re back on the co-operation and rationalisation path again, this time with Volkswagen and Suzuki, with the announcement that VW is to take a 19.9% stake in Suzuki, with Suzuki in turn re-investing up to half of the proceeds in to Volkswagen shares. This deal has been on the cards for some time but has obviously been pushed in to reality by the changing landscape for car manufacturers, where they seek to find a more secure future with takeovers, mergers and partnerships. Which is all very logical, even if it will inevitably lead to less choice for the car buyer in the long term.

Mayor warning over London cycling protests

SAFETY protests sparked by the deaths of six cyclists on the streets of the capital risk scaring people off switching from cars to bikes altogether, London mayor Boris Johnson will warn today. Mr Johnson will urge "more careful" language, suggesting pro-cycling campaigners could jeopardise the push to boost bike use by concentrating on recent fatalities when overall numbers were not up. Mr Johnson - addressing a safety summit bringing together cycle and haulage groups - will hail a £913 million investment in safety measures but urge people not to expect instant results.

Hyundai ix35 launches at Frankfurt

Th Hyundai ix35 at the Frankfurt Motor Show The exterior styling is Ford Kuga by way of VW Tiguan – but somehow more convincing. With the optional 18″ wheels it looks purposeful and aggressive, but even in stock form it looks great. Passenger comfort is well taken care of with a well thought-out cabin with lots of decent quality materials, and nice features like the panoramic roof, cooled glove-box and good connectivity.