Autotuning

Autotuning

A chance meeting with...

A chance meeting with ex-McLaren F1 designer Gordon Murray in Geneva has thrown-up some intriguing revelations. The much-anticipated two-seater T25 city car тЂ“ his self-titled design companyтЂ™s first offering тЂ“ is finished and ready for production!

Acura, Audi, Honda and...

Acura, Audi, Honda and Volkswagen will integrate iPods with their car stereos for 2006 model lines. There are now 15 car companies around the world offering iPod integration, and more than five million cars will ship with iPod support in the US in 2006.

A development of the...

A development of the Stinger currently used by police and the barbed X-Net laid across military checkpoints, the super-strong lasso goes a step further. It has a belt-style loop made of bullet-proof Kevlar and studded with barbed spikes. They bite into the stolen car’s tyres, deflating them and pulling the loop around the axle. The lasso’s extra-tough synthetic rope unwinds from a pulley that can either be anchored to a concrete block or bolted on to a special HGV-rated tow truck. As the rope unwinds, a hydraulic valve slows it down and brings the car to a stop.

A famous Brit is back...

A famous Brit is back from the dead! Auto Express can exclusively reveal that the MG TF LE500 тЂ“ a special-edition run of 500 for the UK тЂ“ will cost ТЈ16,399 each. And that undercuts the equivalent previous-generation TF by nearly ТЈ700 тЂ“ but itтЂ™s still more expensive than a basic Mazda MX-5 by the same margin.

After nearly 40 years...

After nearly 40 years and more than 30 million sales worldwide, the Japanese firm is dropping the Corolla badge in the UK and is set to take on the likes of Ford’s Focus and the VW Golf with a newly named replacement.

Alfa Romeo is giving...

Alfa Romeo is giving its cars the personal touch! The stylish Italian brand is offering owners the chance to customise their new motors. With its Unique Alfa scheme, buyers can choose from three finishes to give their purchase a bespoke look.

ALFA Romeo turned glamour...

ALFA Romeo turned glamour and style up to the max with the show debut of the landmark MiTo.

And Auto Express can...

And Auto Express can exclusively reveal there may be up to three further variations on this small people-mover theme! The concept"s aircraft cockpit-style front side windows remain, as do the light, airy interior and feline headlights. Gone, though, are the wildly flared wheelarches, all-glass boot hatch and sliding rear doors.

And popular-selling...

And popular-selling black cars and vans have a 12 per cent higher chance.

And with temperatures...

And with temperatures on the frozen Swedish lake plunging below -10oC, it"s no wonder the test driver decided to keep the fabric roof firmly closed. But despite this, it"s still possible to see how the heavily disguised prototype is shaping up. Although the car will have broadly the same look as the four-door saloon, changes have been made to the proportion and size of the body to make the most of the new design.

Another pint-sized cracker...

Another pint-sized cracker from tool firm Laser, it"s useful for applying to all the fiddly brackets and mechanisms that need to be freed up from time to time, from door handles and hinges, to wiper arms and battery terminals. However, it’s not much use if you want to work on heavy-duty car parts, such as suspension joints.

A spokesman for the...

A spokesman for the company confirmed to Auto Express: "There are people working on high-revving diesel engines at the moment, and I can see us using one in the MX-5."

A spokesman for TVR...

A spokesman for TVR told Auto Express: "Our owner Nikolai Smolensky has put in a bid to the administrator. It"s not from TVR; it"s a personal one. He"s a sports car fan and likes British machines. If there"s an opportunity to be explored, he"ll take it."

As things get under...

As things get under way at the Detroit Motor Show, Mercedes has just announced the release of two special edition cars that won"t be on the show-floor in America.

At the front, designers...

At the front, designers have reprofiled the bumper and added the more prominent V-grille to bring the car in line with the latest Astra and Vectra. Modifications at the rear are less significant, with dark lenses and extra chrome trim. The cabin is largely unaltered.

BMW-Sauber is planning...

BMW-Sauber is planning to make this year’s Formula One world championship a three-horse race. The Swiss-based outfit is determined to start challenging McLaren and Ferrari for grand

Bob Lutz, General MotorтЂ™s...

Bob Lutz, General MotorтЂ™s marketing chief has delivered the opening speech for this yearтЂ™s Los Angeles Motor Show тЂ“ drawing a line under recent events and outlining his vision for the company.

Can"t help feeling the...

Can"t help feeling the new Lexus IS-F isn"t a worthy rival for Europe"s fastest? Then feast your eyes on this spectacular evolution of the newcomer built by an American tuning firm called Five Axis.

Check out the first...

Check out the first official pictures of Hyundai’s new city car – the i10.

Child deaths on UK roads...

Child deaths on UK roads have risen by 20 per cent. The increase, from 141 children in 2005 to 169 last year, was revealed in the latest Government figures. Most vulnerable were young cyclists, among whom fatal accidents soared by 55 per cent, to 31. There was also a 13 per cent rise in deaths of adolescent pedestrians, to 71.

Children have a knack...

Children have a knack of tangling themselves up in headphone cables, especially when they’re in the back of the car. But these Ety8 earpieces use Bluetooth to wirelessly stream music from an iPod – doing away with the need for wires.

Clean and green was...

Clean and green was the key phrase at FiatтЂ™s Paris stand.

Click the links for...

Click the links for all the latest video features live from the Paris Motor Show, brought to you by our team of expert reporters.

Convertible fans wonтЂ™t...

Convertible fans wonтЂ™t be the only ones to get a Volvo treat at the Frankfurt Motor Show; the firm is set to debut a flagship performance version of its XC60 4x4, too.

Could the Evora be going...

Could the Evora be going electric? A leaked Lotus presentation has revealed that the company is attempting to sell the modelтЂ™s underpinnings to other manufacturers, while presenting them as the perfect platform for an electric car.

Could this be the hottest...

Could this be the hottest supermini ever? Well, bearing the markings of the worldтЂ™s most famous Italian supercar maker should help!

Currently, the Spyder...

Currently, the Spyder is planned only for the US. But Britain"s appetite for convertibles means the Japanese firm"s UK arm is considering officially importing the exciting new model here.

Debt advisers at the...

Debt advisers at the UK Insolvency Helpline say they’ve had more than 10,000 calls in the past four months alone, from owners struggling to pay back money borrowed to buy their vehicle. That compares to 14,285 in the first nine months of 2007.

Ecologically sound living...

Ecologically sound living is currently at the forefront of our minds, and Ecover hopes to extend that into car valeting with its new тЂgreenтЂ™ products.

Extra kit available for new Impreza

Fancy a vroom with a...

Fancy a vroom with a view? The Astra Sport Hatch is now available with Vauxhall’s panoramic windscreen - and the first 500 customers will be offered a limited-edition GTC model. Priced чЈ15,995, the 1.8 GTC gets чЈ1,100 worth of optional kit, including 18-inch alloys, air-con and ESP. On the standard Sport Hatch, the screen costs чЈ850 extra.

Fans of rallying can...

Fans of rallying can breathe a sigh of relief: the world championship will be coming to Britain in October after all.

Far from knocking the...

Far from knocking the wind out of his sails, the rookie bounced back to come within a whisker of snatching pole position less than 48 hours later. He then took his fourth consecutive second place in the race. “I made a tiny mistake,” he said. “The back of the car slipped a little, and that was it. There is no room for error in Monaco.”

Feast your eyes on the...

Feast your eyes on the ultimate Caterham. This is the new Superlight R500 – and it can cover 0-60mph in only 2.9 seconds!

Following the positive...

Following the positive feedback received after the MX Sportif concept debuted at 2003"s Geneva Motor Show, the project to inject some performance sparkle into the family hatch has been given the green light. Although this prototype has very few visual modifications, the production version will feature a more striking bodykit, while still offering greater subtlety than some rivals.

Following the white-hot...

Following the white-hot teaser shots of the TT RS released by Audi last week, a full set of photos have been leaked onto the web, along with further details about the newcomer. The biggest revelation is that from launch the German flyer will be available as either a Coupe or a Roadster.

For months, engineers...

For months, engineers have been testing heavily disguised versions of the revised luxury roadster. In this week"s mag our picture shows what to expect from the newcomer, which will be officially uncovered at the Geneva Motor Show next March. The influence of the R-Class luxury car on the headlamps is clear, and their angular shape sets the latest SL apart from the current model at the front.

For the off-road fan...

For the off-road fan, there is the Desert Gator (far right) which loves to jump and ‘fly’. It has a tough plastic chassis and is well balanced – ideal for challenging surfaces. Eighties favourite the Vanessa’s Lunch Box van (left) has been updated, with an electronic speed controller for fine throttle adjustment and improved suspension.

Franchised dealers have...

Franchised dealers have a reputation for charging more than independent garages, but a new price promise at VW is set to change that.

Given how harsh their...

Given how harsh their winters can be, drivers in Scandinavia demand cleaning products that cut through the dirt quickly and easily. And thatтЂ™s just what this new car cleaning brush does.

Gone are the conservative...

Gone are the conservative looks of the previous model in favour of a more angular style. The aim is to give the Honda the presence it needs to tempt buyers away from the 5-Series and new Audi A6.

Green campaigners have...

Green campaigners have been predicting the death of the so-called "Chelsea tractor" following a recent dip in sales. But the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) says it"s mostly registrations of the UK"s two most popular off-roaders that have suffered in the last year - because they"re both being relaunched. A spokesman said: "Rumours of the demise of the 4x4 have been greatly exaggerated. There were 10,000 fewer sales over the last year, nearly 5,000 of which were for the outgoing Land Rover Freelander, which has not been made since July. The new model only went on sale last week.

Has Hummer had its day?...

Has Hummer had its day? Sales of the all-American companyтЂ™s models have slumped by nearly one-third, as US buyers lose their appetites for supersized cars. And bosses at owner General Motors have now officially confirmed HummerтЂ™s future hangs in the balance.

Here’s are a couple...

Here’s are a couple of Fords that serve up pace as well as space. The blue oval has revealed that its rakish S-MAX and versatile Galaxy MPVs will get the powerful new 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine from the Mondeo.

Here’s the Mazda...

Here’s the Mazda -2... doors, that is. The three-door variant of the company’s supermini is launched this month, offering a much sleeker look than the five-door hatchback.

Here"s a Big Cat on...

Here"s a Big Cat on the prowl! This is Jaguar"s first-ever XF police pursuit vehicle and it"s currently being evaluated by forces across the country тЂ“ so watch out.

Here"s the proof that...

Here"s the proof that Ford is taking people carriers to the MAX! These are the first spy shots of the forthcoming new C-MAX, which will make its worldwide debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Honda has released the...

Honda has released the first picture of the production version of the new Insight hybrid, which is billed as the most affordable car of its type.

If the company is put...

If the company is put into formal receivership, the standard mechanical breakdown cover on all its motors sold in the last three years could be worthless, as the policies are funded solely by the Midlands manufacturer.

Insiders are looking...

Insiders are looking forward to the new arrival - the latest in a long and successful history of models. "We can"t wait for the new Corolla, which is very different from the existing model," said Paul Philpott, Toyota UK"s commercial chief.

Inspired by the Murciнѓ©lago...

Inspired by the Murciнѓ©lago Roadster the project has yet to get the go-ahead from company bosses. However, insiders tell us it"s been proposed in response to the race-bred F360 Stradale from Ferrari.

Ipod specialist Griffin...

Ipod specialist Griffin has unveiled a new line-up of gadgets to help drivers make the most of their MP3 players.

Is an all-electric 911...

Is an all-electric 911 just around the corner? PorscheтЂ™s engineers have shelled out ТЈ100,000 on their very own Tesla Roadster for тЂresearch purposesтЂ™.

IS BMW getting ready...

IS BMW getting ready to release a hardcore, CSL-badged M3? As these

Is it Vauxhall"s turn...

Is it Vauxhall"s turn to share a shocking secret? The unveiling of a new electric hybrid version of an American General Motors model suggests it could well be!

Is this the world"s...

Is this the world"s greatest hybrid engined car? Maker Toyota says it is...

It arrived in 1966...

It arrived in 1966, and the last of the 6,325 examples built rolled off the line in 1968.

It is guaranteed to...

It is guaranteed to keep your passengers entertained on long journeys with its array of functions. Not only can you use the Vision Pro 7985 to show movies on DVD, but if you specify the optional analogue and DVB tuner, you will be able to receive television and FM radio programmes, too.

It might be a name thatтЂ™s...

It might be a name thatтЂ™s new to the UK, but Infiniti is set to celebrate itтЂ™s 20th anniversary at this yearтЂ™s Geneva Motor Show with a very special concept car.

It might be small, but...

It might be small, but the Fiat 500 has some very big ambitions! Following the Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari at Frankfurt, the Italian supermini is now looking to take on the rally circuit with this, the Abarth 500 R3T.

ItрЂ™s not only a pair...

ItрЂ™s not only a pair of hot Fords that performance fans have to look forward to. When the Mitsubishi Evo X goes on sale in March, it will start from ВЈ27,499 for the entry-level 290bhp FQ-300 model.

It’s won Auto...

It’s won Auto Express’s tyre test for the past two years, and now Vredestein has launched a new version of its high-performance Ultrac Sessanta rubber, this time targeted at the SUV market.

It"s 25 years since...

It"s 25 years since Saab first launched its Convertible and to mark the occasion the Swedish car maker is bringing out a Special Edition version of the 9-3. Debuting at next week"s Los Angeles Motor Show, the new Saab Convertible will be displayed in a unique bright champagne metallic colour to draw attention from the American public.

It"s a fair cop! New...

It"s a fair cop! New Government figures reveal traffic police are offically a dying breed тЂ“ with some forces slashing patrols by up to 84 per cent.

It"s the car we predicted...

It"s the car we predicted would be at the event in issue 846, and was inspired by classic racing Maseratis from the past. Styling cues include wheelarches which stand taller than the driver"s seat, just as they did on the Sixties" Birdcage Tipo 63 racers.

ItтЂ™s a classic thatтЂ™s...

ItтЂ™s a classic thatтЂ™s young at heart! Swedish designer Bo Zolland has replicated the original bodyshell of VolvoтЂ™s iconic P1800 Coupe тЂ“ the car featured in the Sixties TV Series, The Saint тЂ“ and equipped it with a host of modern upgrades to create the ultimate retro GT.

ItтЂ™s third time lucky...

ItтЂ™s third time lucky for Suzuki! Take a look at the stunning Kizashi 3 concept, which has made its debut at the New York Motor Show. After two previous show cars it provides the best view yet of how the firmтЂ™s all-new Ford Mondeo challenger will look.

It will come in five-door...

It will come in five-door guise only, and the first examples of the lifestyle-oriented SUV will feature a 1.5-litre petrol engine. A diesel unit is expected to join the line-up at a later date. Daihatsu is hoping to sell between 3,000 and 4,000 models in the UK next year, and feels the Terios could be popular because of what it"s calling its "distinctly European flavour". A spokesman for the maker added: "This will be a crucial vehicle for us in the UK."

Jaguar has unveiled...

Jaguar has unveiled the supercharged version of its lauded redesigned XK sports car.

Just look what BMW has...

Just look what BMW has under wraps for the Frankfurt Motor Show!

KIA is rewarding customer...

KIA is rewarding customer loyalty with a new initiative. Picanto owners who part-exchange their car for a new model get an extra ?500 discount until the end of the month.

Lamborghini has a new...

Lamborghini has a new Murcielago under development, Auto Express has learned.

Last week (Issue 958)...

Last week (Issue 958), we showed you the car wearing a thin disguise during a break in filming at its advertising shoot. And in the current issue (959) we"ve caught it completely unclothed - and its 207-inspired lines are clear for all to see.

Make a call with Lambo Dial-ablo

Mazda"s CX-7 SUV is...

Mazda"s CX-7 SUV is set to ditch its highly polluting petrol engine for a diesel powerplant featuring groundbreaking exhaust-cleaning technology.

Meanwhile, another Essex...

Meanwhile, another Essex dealership has become the first-ever independent outlet to be awarded the brand new BSI Kitemark for garages. Ongar Bridge Motor Company is the third site in the UK to gain the fledgling seal of approval.

Meet the next great...

Meet the next great American hero! After all the renderings, spyshots and speculation the Devon GTX has finally broken cover at the Pebble Beach Concours dтЂ™Elegance.

Mika Hakkinen is the...

Mika Hakkinen is the latest star to confirm his participation; the 1998 and 1999 Formula One world champion will be driving a mouthwatering array of Mercedes racing cars from past and present generations.

Motorists who use high-energy...

Motorists who use high-energy drinks to stay alert behind the wheel are as dangerous to other road users as drunk drivers, according to a new study. And teenagers, sales reps and truckers are among the worst offenders, the AA has told Auto Express.

Nearly two million breakdowns...

Nearly two million breakdowns a year - one in every five nationwide - are caused by simple human error or flat tyres, and driving a new or unfamiliar car can increase the risk of self-inflicted breakdowns.

Never get lost for words...

Never get lost for words again when driving abroad. XS2TheWorld is an application that turns your mobчile phone into a multilingual holiday or business lifeline.

Next month"s Paris Motor...

Next month"s Paris Motor Show will see the debut of the three-door Colt, the CZ3, which will form the basis of all sporty versions. It will be joined on the stage by Europe"s hottest variant, the 1.5-litre turbo CZT. With 150bhp, this newcomer is no slouch... but it won"t be able to keep pace with the car pictured here: Japan"s new Colt Evo.

Not content with the...

Not content with the Yaris supermini and Aygo city car, the Japanese firm has let slip that it will launch an even smaller urban runaround by the end of the decade.

Now you can travel first...

Now you can travel first class in the latest version of Mercedes’ Viano.

Once you’ve found...

Once you’ve found the perfect used car, negotiated the price and carried out a history check, it’s tempting to think that you’ve done everything and the job’s finished. But you’d be wrong.

One in five British...

One in five British road markings is well below industry standards, proving hard to see in poor light and hazardous weather, say experts.

ONE of the most famous...

ONE of the most famous names in Italian performance car history is set to return, Auto Express can reveal.

Our sources say Alfa...

Our sources say Alfa Romeo is set to unveil an all-new small model at the Paris Motor Show in October. It will preview a future production car based on Fiat Grande Punto underpinnings, and our exclusive image shows what"s in store for the front-wheel-drive hatch.

Our team of committed...

Our team of committed spy photographers recently scooped the all-new Mazda 2 undergoing testing (Issue 928). The next-generation supermini will adopt sleek and fresh styling – unlike the current design, which is tall and boxy in comparison. But looks aren’t everything, because the existing 2 still makes an extremely practical used buy.

Porsche"s Cayenne is...

Porsche"s Cayenne is getting even hotter with this latest evolution, which not only has a new engine, but improved suspension, too.

Put the fun back into...

Put the fun back into driving with this great new motoring break. OpenRoadHire aims to help enthusiasts forget about the stresses of jammed roads and soaring bills with a thrilling experience in a Caterham.

Robert Gifford, director...

Robert Gifford, director of the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS), which advises the Government, said the current system fails to root out drivers prone to rule-breaking.

SAAB has revealed an...

SAAB has revealed an all-new model тЂ“ and itтЂ™s a breath of fresh air! Called the 9-X Air, it marks a radical reinvention of the traditional convertible.

Safety camera in view for cyclists

Statistics released...

Statistics released by the trade bible show that while the cost of three-year-old models is rising across all sectors of the market, new cars are even more expensive.

Swedish firm Volvo has...

Swedish firm Volvo has revealed the first details and prices of its eagerly anticipated XC60 SUV.

Take a look at Renault’s...

Take a look at Renault’s sensational Laguna Coupé! If you were disappointed by the look of the all-new hatchback, the designers have pulled out all the stops for the latest addition to the line-up. The French car maker took the wraps off this concept at the week’s Frankfurt Motor Show, revealing what’s in store when the production car hits the road.

Take a look at these exclusive pictures

Team boss Gerhard Berger...

Team boss Gerhard Berger admits that last year’s pairing of Vitantonio Liuzzi and Scott Speed is in pole position to retain the seats, but says he’s in no rush to nomчinate either of them officially.

That"s according to...

That"s according to a new Government website, which allows users to work out their annual carbon footprint. The Internet-based calculator at www.direct.gov.uk/actonCO2 takes into account the property you live in, the appliances you have and transport you use.

That"s the view of transport...

That"s the view of transport experts who say there"s a "recipe for disaster" looming should the Euro-style road signs be adopted, as suggested, in the next five years. The UK Metric Association (UKMA) is pushing for the abolition of imperial miles and yards on Britain"s 1.5 million road signs in a new report, claiming there would be many benefits in converting to metres and kilometres. The group has listed examples such as the easier calculation of fuel economy and uniformity with other EU nations as key reasons for undertaking the чЈ80m scheme.

The 10th incarnation...

The 10th incarnation of the fast four-door will become more distinctive, thanks to the aggressive nose and headlamps influenced by the Grandis MPV. However, rally fans will be pleased to see the trademark rear spoiler has been kept to emphasise the car"s racing roots.

The blue oval has admitted...

The blue oval has admitted that the Focus CC"s folding hard-top didn"t open and close "quickly enough" when the earliest examples started to roll off the production line. And last-minute alterations to speed up the process have pushed the promised delivery dates seriously behind schedule.

The blue Porsche 911...

The blue Porsche 911 and red stock car are two cute "real-life" versions of a pair of characters in the new motion picture, which is based around a gang of talking cars who get caught up in a whirlwind adventure. Featuring the celebrity voices of Owen Wilson (Starsky & Hutch), Bonnie Hunt (The Green Mile) and legendary actor Paul Newman, the computer-animated film will have its US premiere on 26 May.

The British Parking...

The British Parking Association has prepared the code which includes recommended tariffs for clamping and towing, and a clear, authoritative standard of unacceptable clamping behaviour against which Small Claims Courts and Trading Standards can measure legal cases.

The car, full name Concept...

The car, full name Concept Ocean Drive, is a luxurious four-door S-Class-size cabrio.

The company has already...

The company has already been working with VW on interactive 3-D layouts for in-car systems and now its researchers have managed to get users even closer to the action, with the ability to view "street-level" images on screen.

The company has teamed...

The company has teamed up with leading sportswear company Umbro to produce the X Boot III.

The Corsa is getting...

The Corsa is getting cleaner! This new hybrid version of the top-seller is the most economical Vauxhall superчmini ever built – and it’s coming to a showroom near you next year.

The covers came off...

The covers came off the new baby at the Paris Motor Show to rapturous applause. And Auto Express can reveal there will also be a high-performance Renaultsport version.

The crowds swarmed around...

The crowds swarmed around ChryslerтЂ™s press conference at Detroit, eager to see if the fallen giant would come out fighting. And it didnтЂ™t disappoint.

The DeLorean is making...

The DeLorean is making a comeback! Demand is so high for the ill-fated sports car – featured in the Back to the Future trilogy of films – that a limited production run is currently being considered.

The distinctive chrome...

The distinctive chrome four-sided grille appeared first on the luxury flagship A8 W12, but has also made an appearance on the all-new A6 - unveiled in last week"s Auto Express - which will go on sale in June.

The E Boost took honours...

The E Boost took honours in the design explorations category thanks to its clever hybrid powerplant, which features an electric motor mated to a petrol engine to enhance performance and economy, plus reduce emissions.

THE electric-powered...

THE electric-powered Swiss army knife of the motoring world has just got a little bit easier on the pocket!

The firm is better known...

The firm is better known for its speed camera locators, and this is the first time it has launched into another market.

The first all new MG...

The first all new MG has finally rolled off the production lines at the

The glass, which extends...

The glass, which extends seamlessly from the bonnet up into the roof as far as the B-pillar, will be unveiled at this month"s Paris Motor Show, where the three-door Astra - to be badged Sport Hatch - will get its premiere. A Vauxhall spokesman said: "The new windshield gives the front occupants an unlimited field of vision just like in an aeroplane"s cockpit. This makes driving through mountains or a brightly lit city a really special experience."

The hybrid features...

The hybrid features Mazda RX-8-style barn doors. A spokesman said: "One of the things that current Jimny owners are concerned about is the relatively poor access to the back seats, so the Landbreeze was developed with this in mind."

The Italdesign-Giugiaro...

The Italdesign-Giugiaro Toyota Alessandro Volta is a supercar, but with a difference. It"s a hybrid-electric vehicle using the same powertrain as the Lexus RX400h, which arrives at the end of the year. As well as a battery mounted on each axle, it has a 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine. Together, they develop 402bhp.

The latest Volkswagen...

The latest Volkswagen Golf GTI has plenty of grip – and that’s just from its seats! As this picture shows, the upholstery of the new Pirelli model features a rubber tread pattern to hold you firmly in place.

The legendary McLaren...

The legendary McLaren F1 set the benchmark for being the fastest in March 1998, at a mighty 240.14mph. But then in February, a Koenigsegg CCR took the crown during testing at the Nardo circuit in Italy, nudging the record to 240.387mph. But now that figure has been well and truly shattered.

The London event"s organisers...

The London event"s organisers have asked 40 of the biggest names in motoring - including DaimlerChrysler"s Dieter Zetsche, GM boss Rick Wagoner and Ford chief Bill Ford - to attend a glitzy drinks reception at 10 Downing Street with PM Tony Blair. The date is set for Tuesday 18 July, which just happens to be press day at the UK car expo. It"s hoped the chance to do something usually reserved for visiting heads of state will encourage global chief executives to come to the event.

The manufacturer has...

The manufacturer has revealed that there is a "good reason" why the NSX Type R will be displayed at next month"s British Motor Show, and that "all will become clear after an important announcement on the stand". This can mean only one thing - confirmation the flagship Type R is finally coming here.

The Mini Coyote GPS...

The Mini Coyote GPS speed camera locator has been a hit in France, and now itтЂ™s here. You get dash and visor mounts, although the unit is hard to view with the latter. The locator runs off the 12V socket or an internal battery, which claims eight hoursтЂ™ operation.

The most important Big...

The most important Big Cat ever has finally been unleashed – and Auto Express has the first official pictures. After months of spy shots and a stunning concept car, the eagerly anticipated S-Type replacement has arrived.

The production-ready...

The production-ready model was shown at the firm’s research centre in South Korea, ahead of its public debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January. As well as Mercedes CLS-style headlamps, the newcomer wears a Bentley-inspired winged badge on the bonnet.

The PS182KB packs an...

The PS182KB packs an impressive 18V punch, and this power is neatly controlled by the collar behind the chuck. While you still get the usual progressive trigger, the collar varies the force the drill can apply – ideal for spinning up small fasteners like trim screws without damaging the heads.

There are many solutions...

There are many solutions for drivers who want to use their phone and MP3 player in the car. And now, audio specialist Celsus has launched its offering: the new Bluetouch system.

There’s disappointment...

There’s disappointment ahead for UK muscle car fans – the next Dodge Challenger isn’t coming here after all. The new owner of the US brand, Cerberus Capital Management, has decided to ditch plans for transatlantic sales.

ThereтЂ™s a pair of...

ThereтЂ™s a pair of roofless new AMG mean machines on the way from Mercedes!

The revised Porsche...

The revised Porsche Boxster made its world debut at last weekтЂ™s Los Angeles Motor Show тЂ“ and we drive it for the first time in this week"s Auto Express magazine. But as these spy pictures show, engineers at the firm arenтЂ™t downing tools just yet. They are working on this Speedster edition, which harks back to a rare 911 model from the Eighties.

The secret of this British...

The secret of this British performance success lies under the scooped bonnet, where a quad-turbo 6.0-litre V10 produces 1,175bhp. Acceleration promises to be devastating - a 0-60mph figure of 2.6 seconds is claimed, with power being driven through two huge rear wheels. Using special aluminium and composite construction, the two-seater weighs in at only 1,300kg - making it much lighter than most family cars. The bodywork and engine are the work of British engineer Al Melling, whose previous efforts include the AJPV8 and straight-six units used by struggling sports car maker TVR.

The Sexy Green Car Show...

The Sexy Green Car Show is back! Following the success of last year’s event, the eco-friendly motor expo returns. And the Eden Project in Cornwall – home to the two biggest greenhouses in the world – will play host for the second year in a row, from 23-31 May.

The sharp-edged styling...

The sharp-edged styling of the old model is expected to give way to a smarter, smoother shape. It will borrow heavily from the 2004 Fluence concept, and previews a new design direction for the French firm. As you can see, the brand"s famous diamond logo will dominate the front of the car, set between flush-fitting headlamps.

The unit, our the Best...

The unit, our the Best Buy in our issue 871 test, has received a number of updates, including improved crocodile clips.

The updated version...

The updated version of the Japчanese firm"s Ford C-MAX rival will arrive first. Bringing the MPV into line with the new Auris hatch, the Corolla Verso"s makeover includes a fresh headlamp design and a new look for the front bumper.

The wait is nearly over!...

The wait is nearly over! Alfa Romeo will unveil its eagerly anticipated Junior at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and itтЂ™s set to arrive in dealers before the end of next year.

The wraps are off the...

The wraps are off the facelifted Lexus IS. And while it looks a bit familiar, the firm has a big surprise in store тЂ“ in the shape of a new coupé-cabrio version.

This 24V cordless Clarke...

This 24V cordless Clarke unit is designed with professionals in mind, but it more than meets the needs of everyday motorists. The company claims a fast charge time of one hour – which we found to be accurate – and usefully, the device comes with two battery packs.

This Approved Mileage...

This Approved Mileage Allowчance Payment (AMAP), set by HM Revчenue and Customs (HMRC), is meant to compensate motorists for fuel, servicing and other driving costs.

This is the first car...

This is the first car in the world to slam on the brakes if someone steps into the road in front of it. VolvoтЂ™s new S60, previewed at the Detroit Motor Show, has technology called Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Detection.

This is the first official...

This is the first official picture of Kia"s new production-ready cee"d SW, the model that takes centre stage on the Korean firm"s Geneva Motor Show stand next month.

This is the production...

This is the production version of the prototype device we tried in Issue 946. It has clear instructions, and the final caps are smaller than the test unit’s, although they’re still far bigger than standard valve caps.

This is the world’s...

This is the world’s first right-hand-drive 300C drop-top. Only four have been created by specialist Chrysler Convertible (www.chryslerconvertible.co.uk) in Berkshire. It has scissor doors, a walnut and leather interior, an electric roof and 22-inch alloys.

This week"s magazine...

This week"s magazine has the first pictures of the cars, developed with the help of information smuggled out of the German company"s HQ. Both are based on a revised A4 platform, and the styling has been inspired by the Nuvolari concept, which wowed the crowds at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show.

To provide some much...

To provide some much needed stability, Italian tin-top star Fabrizio Gioчvanardi and promising British youngster Tom Chilton will return to spearhead the VX Racing attack. “One of the main things we felt we missed this year was continuity,” admitted race squad boss Ian Harriчson. “Fabrizio, in particular, has had to adapt to everything.

Unveiled at recnt Tokyo...

Unveiled at recnt Tokyo Auto Salon - a motor show that gives Japчanese makers the chance to let their hair down - the Turbo Modellista is set to go on sale in its home market in the next few months, and previews a European version. Based on the Japan-only Yaris RS, it uses a 1.5-litre engine turbocharged by Toyota"s in-house tuner, Modellista, and Toyota Racing Development (TRD).

Volvo is being crystal...

Volvo is being crystal clear about its future line-up. The Swedish firm has released a teaser shot of its S60 concept ahead of its debut at next monthтЂ™s Detroit Motor Show.

We can reveal exactly...

We can reveal exactly how the German firm"s latest interpretation of its legendary performance car - caught winter testing by our spy photographers - will look when it goes on sale next year. At the front, the newcomer adopts the circular headlights of the 997-series Porsches, although it loses the ungainly large air ducts sported by the current-generation Turbo.

We managed to snatch...

We managed to snatch a picture in this week"s mag of a heavily disguised test mule at the firm"s headquarters near Stuttgart, but because of tight security, the front was covered up, so it"s only the rear which features in our shot.

We"re all looking at...

We"re all looking at ways to drive more effiчciently these days. But how many motorists believe a fresh set of tyres would do the trick?

While all eyes will...

While all eyes will be firmly focused on the fight for the world championship, spare a thought for the tail-end Spyker outfit. The impoverished team had to delay the introduction of its uprated Ferrari-powered chassis when the new car failed an FIA crash test in the run-up to last month’s race in Turkey.

While this E-Class...

While this E-Class, seen at last week"s Detroit Motor Show, may look like a regular saloon, under the bonnet is BLUETEC - Mercedes" latest clean diesel engine technology. On sale later this year in the 3.0-litre V6 E320 CDI, the system features not only a particulate filter capable of reducing harmful emissions by up to 98 per cent, but also a clever catalytic converter.

While Valeo is better...

While Valeo is better known for headlights and wipers, itтЂ™s also responsible for some cutting-edge automotive technology тЂ“ and now itтЂ™s made its original equipment lane guidance set-up available as a retro-fit option.

With four-wheel drive...

With four-wheel drive, the car follows hot on the heels of the RX400h - the world"s only petrol/electric SUV - and cements Lexus as the leader in the field. The 600h also provides the first glimpse of the all-new LS styling. It"s well ahead of the scheduled on-sale date of summer 2007.

With its unique headlamps...

With its unique headlamps, new look badges and ultra luxury interior, this is the car Maserati says will finally break BMW and Mercedes grip on the supersaloon class.

Yet another luxury car...

Yet another luxury car is on the way: Rolls-RoyceтЂ™s new тЂcompactтЂ™ saloon goes on sale in 2010.

You"ve got to get up...

You"ve got to get up really early in the morning it you want to escape our spies! Manufacturers are normally extremely careful about hiding their top-secret new models, but our snapper caught these forthcoming Mercedes all parked in the open outside a Swedish hotel.