World’s best-selling roadster returns

MAZDA has released details on the brand-new fourth generation MX-5, already the best selling roadster of all time. Launched simultaneously at events in Barcelona, Japan and the USA, the fourth-generation MX-5 is the first to benefit from Mazda’s SkyActiv efficient technology. That means a frugal but powerful petrol engine and a substantial weight saving of 100kg over the previous generation.

Maserati at the Paris motor show 2008

By Ben Barry Motor Shows 03 October 2008 09:17 Visitors to the Maserati stand at Paris were treated to Modena’s familiar but still nonetheless alluring two-car range with a trio of Quattroportes and a pair of Granturismos, the newest versions being the Granturismo S and the Quattroporte S. The Granturismo S makes this four-seat GT an altogether more hardcore proposition. A 4.7-litre V8 replaces the standard car’s 4.2; the ZF torque converter auto makes way for a six-speed automated manual shared with the Ferrari Scuderia; plus there’s a subtle aero kit, bigger brakes along with interior embellishments.

UK 2010 car sales analysis: winners and losers

The new car sales figures for 2010 were announced today, revealing the winners and losers in the UK's new car showrooms. Perhaps surprisingly, with the ending of the scrappage scheme in March 2010, new car registrations in Britain ended up 1.8% on 2009. That was a total of 2,030,846 cars sold as new.