Trucks

ABD Road Safety Spokesman...

ABD Road Safety Spokesman Mark McArthur-Christie explained: "a driver travelling at 45mph on an empty road at 2am could be causing far less danger than one doing 35mph at a busy time, perhaps past a school or in a shopping area, yet under these new proposals the former driver will be severely punished whilst the latter will have his penalty reduced. The same applies to a driver travelling at 100mph on a quiet motorway. Compared to a driver doing 70mph in fog or spray he may be infinitely safer yet he will recieve six points whilst the dangerous driver will not even be reprimanded. It"s an absolute nonsense."

Achieved during the...

Achieved during the GreenFleet Fuel Challenge, designed to demonstrate the efficiency of low-emission cars, the Aygo lapped Silverstone race track 10 times, covering the 32.5 miles in under an hour.

After making its London...

After making its London debut in 2007, the spectacular end-of-season Race of Champions is returning to Wembley Stadium on 14 December. The event sees some of the worldò€™s top drivers competing against each other in identical machinery. A dazzling line-up will be topped by seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher.

A Highways Agency spokeswoman...

A Highways Agency spokeswoman said: "The pilot scheme was developed to stop the emergency services getting punctures." Vehicles using the extra lane suffer because of metal debris conventional brushes leave behind. This unique lorry collects nails and other sharp objects as it drives over them.

Alcar-Wheelwright has...

Alcar-Wheelwright has added two new designs to its comprehensive range. First up is the Dotz Renegade. This tough-looking, 10-spoke rim comes in an Anthracite finish. It has a five-hole fitment, and is initially available only as an 18-inch wheel, with other sizes due later this year.

Although it"s still...

Although it"s still officially a pilot project, www.traffic-england.com will provide live congestion information for motorways and A-roads across England. Links to pages covering Wales and Scotland are included.

And as far as parking...

And as far as parking goes, they say it"s just the ticket. Judges from industry group the European Parking Association agreed, and voted the Parkhaus Engelenschanze the best new car park in Europe. "It"s a real eye-catcher," explained the spokesman announcing the award.

And because the ÷£200...

And because the ÷£200 optional extra technology has been fitted to the car"s glovebox - or the rear centre armrest in the Q7 - it"s out of sight from thieves. Sound comes through the car"s speakers and the driver decides what they hear via the Multi Media Interface (MMI) cabin control set-up.

A new consultation paper...

A new consultation paper from the Department of Transport urges local authorities to explore alternative ways of educating drivers against inconsiderate and illegal parking other than automatically ticketing, clamping and removing vehicles. It goes so far as to order against setting targets for the number of tickets issued or funds raised through fines.

An increase in length...

An increase in length of 18.7 cm means that the Altea XL benefits from improved luggage volume and extra rear legroom. The new model boasts a boot capacity of 532 litres as opposed to the 409 litres offered by the Altea.

As a result, a naturally...

As a result, a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol powerplant will also be developed - likely to be a high-revving, slightly detuned version of the same 300bhp-plus engine that will power Subaru"s WRC entry from 2009. Crucially, this model is set to retain the trademark 4WD layout. Also in the pipeline is a production variant of the hybrid turbocharged boxer drivetrain from the B5 concept. A Subaru first, it will be co-developed with Toyota and is set to arrive in 2009 in an all-new Legacy. A face÷­lifted version of the current car has recently been launched.

A special torture track...

A special torture track, riddled with potholes and cobbles, has been reproduced at the company"s Stuttgart proving ground from the original Heide Road in Germany, which Mercedes first used for testing 50 years ago.

Aston Martin has collaborated...

Aston Martin has collaborated with Nokia to produce the Nokia 8800 Aston Martin Edition, featuring a laser-etched stainless steel AM logo, and the rather unfortunate phrase "Power, Beauty & Soul" etched into the charger, along with the motor company"s trademark wings.

A trio of sports car...

A trio of sports car legends is returning! Auto Express has got to grips with three amazing machines that are about to set the performance car world on fire.

Audis" smart sat-nav

Audis" smart sat-nav

Auto Express has already...

Auto Express has already driven the 1.5-litre petrol model in Japanese trim on Page 28, but UK buyers will also have the choice of a 1.3-litre petrol unit and a modified version of Fiat"s 1.3-litre diesel engine. While most are expected to opt for a five-speed manual box, Suzuki will offer a conventional automatic transmission on the 1.5 and a sequential clutchless manual on the 1.3. Prices are expected to start at around í‚á£7,000 for entry-level models. To read the first drive, click on the following link Suzuki first drive

Bigger than before and...

Bigger than before and with an increased ride height, it’s more compact SUV than crossover estate, and is targeting models such as Toyota’s RAV4 and Honda’s CR-V.

British Car Auctions...

British Car Auctions (BCA) has launched a dedicated ‘Mini Select’ programme at its Nottingham centre, where around 80 of

British tin-top ace...

British tin-top ace James Thompson is continuing his search for a race seat in this seasonò€™s British Touring Car Championship, which blasts back into action in April.

But as our image shows...

But as our image shows, the designers have not gone to the extremes of their Honda counterparts, as they don"t want to alienate the Corolla"s existing loyal following.

But Fisker’s Tramonto...

But Fisker’s Tramonto isn’t rare enough for some buyers! That’s why the US coachbuilder revealed this incredible 700bhp version at the New York show – and it’s the firm’s fastest production car ever, with a 205mph top speed.

But this week, Euro...

But this week, Euro NCAP experts meet in Brussels to discuss how "active safety" can be incorporated into tests. The idea is to devise a way of checking how a car"s brakes, handling, chassis and visibility help drivers avoid accidents in the first place.

Called www.bidaprice.com...

Called www.bidaprice.com it puts customers in touch with more than 800 motor dealers across the country. After paying a í‚á£116 fee, the buyer inputs the model they are looking for - then garages bid the best price they can offer on that particular vehicle.

Can you dig this? Volvo...

Can you dig this? Volvo has buried an XC90 and launched a worldwide treasure hunt to find it – and the first person to unearth the SUV keeps it! The challenge starts at your Volvo dealer, where you can pick up a map which you need before logging on to the firm’s website for the first clue. Every time you solve a puzzle, you’ll get another.

Check out this facelifted...

Check out this facelifted French fancy! Citroen has given the C2 a fresh front end and added a new diesel engine to the line-up, five years after the supermini was first launched.

Check out Vauxhall"s...

Check out Vauxhall"s new badge. Due to be unveiled later this year, the sharp yet simple new logo will set a more upmarket tone for the company as it aims to pitch its forthcoming models against prestige rivals.

Chinese company SAIC...

Chinese company SAIC - which bought Rover last year and also owns SsangYong Motor Company - will use its Korean subsidiary"s network to sell the Ford Focus rival, the Roewe W2. The franchises will carry SAIC"s offensive into Europe until the Chinese company sets up an entirely new network of Roewe-branded dealers in 2010.

Clip the PL8C70 into...

Clip the PL8C70 into the neat elastic harness, slip it over a headrest, plug the lead into a cigar lighter socket and away you go. The tablet-style player has a seven-inch screen, two speakers on the front panel and can also be used to play DVDs on your home TV.

Clock this! It’s...

Clock this! It’s one of several new time displays for mobile phones featuring car-related graphics. And car-loving mobile users are snapping them up on the Internet.

Codenamed the MX Micro...

Codenamed the MX Micro Sport, the newcomer will be aimed directly at the Renaultsport Clio 182 and forthcoming Vauxhall Corsa GSi. The car is powered by the gutsy 150bhp 2.0-litre engine that made its debut in the Mazda 6, and should be capable of reaching a top speed of around 130mph.

Congratulations to our...

Congratulations to our six-man team, who drove non-stop for 24-hours in a computer-generated endurance race last Friday. And despite having never used the simulator before, they even managed to brush aside the opposition, well one member of the opposition at least, to snatch a creditable ninth place overall!

Created by paper craftsman...

Created by paper craftsman Sheung Yee, it"s an origami kit that can be built into a life-size working V8 - powered by batteries. "It took a year to design and construct," explained Yee, of Montreal, Canada. "Each part is precisely made."

Created in only three...

Created in only three months, the convertible is fitted with a three-part folding metal roof that stows neatly in the boot. The trio of panels all stack on top of each other, which means that owners can still enjoy a reasonable amount of boot space. In addition, the rear passenger windows have been made larger - which allows more light into the cabin.

Customers can put their...

Customers can put their name down for one of the sports crossovers at the touch of a button. At www.cx-7order.co.uk buyers can customise their new model by choosing their favourite colour, upholstery and other accessory options. Prices start at ÷£23,960 for the 2.3-litre 254bhp petrol turbo - this will be the only engine on offer.

Described as a cross...

Described as a cross between the "elegant DB9 road car and the powerful DBR9 race car", the DBS is also a genuine hint of where AM is taking its road cars.

Design boss Ian Callum...

Design boss Ian Callum presented the S-Type replacement to a packed conference hall. And he admitted that while the concept"s daring look was not the whole story in terms of Jag"s reinvention, it gave a taste of its plans for the exec market. It also hinted at the ambitious strategies for replacing the aluminium-bodied XJ in 2009.

Designed by Italian...

Designed by Italian styling house Giorgetto Giugiaro, the newcomer boasts a more curved look. Despite the bulges on the rear corners of the disguised model in our pictures, Fiat insiders have indicated that the high tail-lamps, which were first seen in 1994, won"t be dropped.

Designer supercars are...

Designer supercars are all the rage! Hot on the heels of the Bugatti Veyron Hermes edition comes this, the Lamborghini LP640 Roadster Versace. Itò€™s a collaboration between Italyò€™s foremost fashion house and its most outrageous car maker.

Determined to be taken...

Determined to be taken seriously in the world’s car market, Chinese firm Brilliance is ready to launch its Ford Focus challenger.

Dr Aurelio Gonzalez-Villasenor...

Dr Aurelio Gonzalez-Villasenor led a team of University of Manchester engineers to give the idea of vehicles travelling in high-speed close formation - or platooning - a nudge forward.

Dummies are already...

Dummies are already used for crash testing vehicles and for evaluating in-car audio, too. Now, they’re also mak÷­ing sure heating and air-con systems work properly!

Every cloud has a silver...

Every cloud has a silver lining… When our spies caught up with this BMW-owned truck in Scandinavia it was stopped by the side of the road having caught fire. Take a peek inside and you will see its precious cargo – the new estate version of the MINI with less disguise than ever before. Test drivers were left with no choice but to unload the near-showroom ready cars and drive them on to their destination, giving us the chance to get the best pictures yet of the new model. See Auto Express magazine (Jan 31 issue 946) for all the pics and details.

Fans of fast Audis are...

Fans of fast Audis are in for a treat, as sources have revealed that an even more hardcore version of the tyre-smoking RS5Ò  is on the way. No four-ringed model has ever matched the legendary status of the ò€˜Ur-Quattroò€™ from 1985, and Audi is looking to evoke its memory with a tougher and lighter A5 coupé.

Fiat"s going to roll...

Fiat"s going to roll back the years ò€“ literally. The firm will pull the wraps off a new soft-top Fiat 500 at the Geneva Motor Show in March. And in keeping with the city carò€™s retro design, it will have a similar roof mechanism to the original 500ò€™s.

Finding the greenest...

Finding the greenest used cars will be made easier, if a new scheme from HPI is a success. The vehicle history data company has introduced its own eco-sheets, containing environmental information about used models. They’re free to dealers, and follow a similar design to those for new cars to help second-hand buyers see CO2 emissions more easily.

Fines for fixed-penalty...

Fines for fixed-penalty offences are set to be reduced to ÷£40 and two licence points from the current blanket charge of ÷£60 and three.

First is the TomTom...

First is the TomTom, which has the portable navigation system of the same name as standard. It also has a leather steering wheel and blue interior highlights. Prices start at ÷£9,260 for the 75bhp 1.2-litre petrol model.

First revealed by Auto...

First revealed by Auto Express in issue 827, this model will break new ground for Jaguar, showcasing the firm"s new petrol/electric hybrid technology which will eventually spread across the range. Likely to be based on the platform of the all-new X-Type, the soft-roader will get a sleek yet muscular bodyshell and a raised ride height, as well as an all-wheel-drive system based on that of the next-generation Freelander. Land Rover"s SUV is due next year, but a Jaguar soft-roader is unlikely before 2009.

Fitted with a standard...

Fitted with a standard six-speed auto box, the SUV returns 20.9mpg and sprints from 0-60mph in 6.1 seconds. It delivers a top speed of 153mph. The model also features reshaped bumpers, and will cost í‚á£57,450 when deliveries start in May.

For customers who can’t...

For customers who can’t wait for the flagship Abarth, Fiat has launched a warm Grande Punto. The T-Jet 120 Sporting features a 1.4-litre turbo, does 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds and returns 42.8mpg.

From a C3-based supermini-MPV...

From a C3-based supermini-MPV to a toboggan using parts from various Citroens! The company has constructed this sledge out of a C4 Picasso’s rear seat, a C3 steering wheel, a C3 Pluriel’s roof pillars and a spoiler from a C4 Coupé.

GENERAL Motors has donated...

GENERAL Motors has donated ÷£1,400 to help a man restore 1968 Corvette stolen 37 years ago. New Yorker Alan Poster was recently reunited with now virtually wrecked Chevrolet.

General Motors insiders...

General Motors insiders have revealed that media and public enthusiasm for the GTC, which showcases the next-generation Vectra - due on sale in mid-2008 - has forced a rethink about the production of a coupé version.

Generous cabin space...

Generous cabin space is clearly a key requirement for any self-respecting supermini because, as with the 207, the Corsa is bigger in every exterior dimension than the car it replaces.

German design house...

German design house Startech, part of the Brabus group, has boosted the Jeep Commander"s 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine by 44bhp to 262bhp. This slashes the 0-62mph time from 9.0 to 8.5 seconds, while increasing the top speed from 118mph to 124mph.

Grant broke a 2005 record...

Grant broke a 2005 record of 69 donuts set by Dale Morrison, using his road-going Sagaris fitted with standard Yokohama tyres. He performed for the Guinness World Records TV show in Madrid, Spain. "I"m a bit dizzy now," he joked afterwards.

Having appeared late...

Having appeared late last year the straight-from-a-Bond-film system uses a Far Infrared (FIR) thermal imaging camera to identify heat-emitting objects, such as people, animals or road-side barbeques, up to 300m away. The "lit" images are then projected onto the BMW iDrive screen - a large display panel on the dashboard, under the screen.

Having led the way for...

Having led the way for high-performance people carriers with its Zafira VXR, Vauxhall has tried to pull a similar trick by developing a 178bhp version of the existing Meriva.

Here’s another...

Here’s another Audi that’s also highly mobile. The firm has come up with its answer to Apple’s iPhone – so as well as making calls, the stylish gadget stores music and plays videos. It also acts as a car key, and was revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show as part of the Metroproject Quattro concept.

Here’s the clearest...

Here’s the clearest view yet of the new Nissan Murano’s cabin. We brought you a preview of the exterior last week, and now this picture of the second-generation model reveals more details about the inside.

Hereò€™s to Hyundai!...

Hereò€™s to Hyundai! The firm has overtaken Ford at the top of the new car sales charts ò€“ and this first glimpse inside the forthcoming ix35 SUV shows that it intends to stay there.

Hi-tech new safety kit...

Hi-tech new safety kit from Volvo warns motorists when it’s time to take a break.

Honda brought us the...

Honda brought us the humanoid robot ò€“ and now the latest Japanese wonder is a futuristic motorised unicycle.

Hybrids such as the...

Hybrids such as the Citroen C-Crosser not only help save the environment, but owners cash in, too, in the form of lower fuel bills. With this in mind, one Toyota Prius buyer has splashed out on options - to the tune of ÷£15,000!

If you’re in the...

If you’re in the market for a prestige estate, now is the time to buy.

In 1971, the firm built...

In 1971, the firm built a mid-engined sports car prototype - the Super Sport 724 - which was revealed at the Brussels Motor Show. The model also featured in a Czech movie called Vampire From Ferrat.

INFINITIò€™S luxury...

INFINITIò€™S luxury saloon is set to be sold in Europe for the first time. The M will join the range from next September and be made available with a choice of petrol or diesel V6 engines as bosses aim to lure potential buyers of Mercedesò€™ new E-Class and the upcoming BMW 5-Series. The Infiniti will feature a rear-drive layout with the engine mounted behind the front axle to optimise weight distribution.

Instead of going on...

Instead of going on the roof, the firm"s Easybase system locks over a car"s towbar. Priced at ÷£130, it can hold up to 60kg, making it ideal for suitcases.

In these latest photographs...

In these latest photographs, the 4x4"s front end is now fully visible, with Audi"s distinctive four-sided grille on display. When the Q7 goes on sale early next year, it will be available with a range of petrol and diesel engines taken from the A6.

Ireland: Terrified Brenda...

Ireland: Terrified Brenda O"Leary, 34, from Wexford drove her new car into a ditch when a wasp flew into her hair. She was left bruised; her motor was a write-off.

Is the next Rolls-Royce...

Is the next Rolls-Royce just a glorified 7-Series? This new shot of the Ò£175,000 RR4 shows that the firmò€™s cars are edging ever closer to those of its parent company, BMW.

It features a range...

It features a range of clever ideas, including an inflatable rear seat and electric sliding doors. Powered by an economical 1.3-litre CDTi diesel engine, the Toyota Yaris rival can comfortably carry three adults and a child. But it can also be easily turned into a one-seat load-lugger by deflating the rear bench and concealing it in the floor, and folding the child seat into the back of the driver"s chair.

It’s a heady mix...

It’s a heady mix of stylish metal from the Turin car marque and neat touches from motorbike firm Ducati.

It"s not often you see...

It"s not often you see one car manufacturer advertising another, but the sticker above has started to appear on the back windows of new Daewoos. It"s all part of the Korean company"s promotional push to let customers know that the brand name is being replaced by Chevrolet. And as part of that deal, any customer who buys a new Daewoo before 15 November - with the exception of the Matiz - will be offered the chance to exchange it free of charge for a brand new Chevrolet-badged model next March.

It started life as a...

It started life as a luxurious concept, but wealthy buyers loved it so much the Maybach Laundaulet has gone into production!

It"s the car GM bosses...

It"s the car GM bosses hope will give Hummer sales a much-needed boost, following a downturn in the US. And despite engineers" best attempts to disguise the newcomer as a pick-up, the rear end is geared towards family use.

It"s the car that had...

It"s the car that had the press flocking to see it! Mercedes" "Gullwing" SLS AMG stunned Frankfurt with it"s retro-inspired looks and modern mechanicals - proving that Merc"s performance arm AMG is more than simply a tuner.

It"s the pride and joy...

It"s the pride and joy of enthusiast and mechanical engineer Ron Patrick. "I wanted the wildest street-legal ride possible," he explained. "I don"t know how fast it can go, and probably never will! I built it to thrill me, not kill me - but I can"t resist taking it for the odd "run" up the highway."

It"s the throttle pedal...

It"s the throttle pedal that bites back! Continental has developed an accelerator that warns drivers of hazards on the road by vibrating and pushing against their foot.

Itò€™s another shock...

Itò€™s another shock announcement from Honda, and a massive blow for performance car fans everywhere. Only two weeks after dramatically pulling the plug on its Formula one team, the Japanese car maker has revealed its hotly-anticipated NSX supercar has been canned.

Itò€™s time for change...

Itò€™s time for change. At least, thatò€™s the view of Rinspeed, as its latest concept isnò€™t simply a sports car ò€“ itò€™s a van, too.

Kicking off with the...

Kicking off with the entry-level 116i, the range continues with the SE and Sport models, which both cost í‚á£17,640.

Larger than the current...

Larger than the current Corolla, the newcomer is expected to be bolstered by a Verso-badged seven-seater compact MPV, which will also be bigger than the current model. The new hatchback line-up is expected to be launched in the UK towards the end of 2006.

Make sure you’re...

Make sure you’re not tempted to grab your phone while

Making its North American...

Making its North American debut, Jaguarò€™s all-new 2010 XJ was unveiled at the annual Pebble Beach Concours dò€™Elegance kick-off event last night.

Meet Audi’s stunning...

Meet Audi’s stunning new RS6 Avant! This is the first official picture of the 580bhp load-lugger, which will also debut in Frankfurt next week. It combines the practicality of an estate with supercar performance, and can sprint from 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds. The four-wheel-drive V10 sizzler has a maximum load space of 1,660 litres and stands out thanks to a bespoke front bumper, lower stance and big alloys. Distinctive LED light strips incorporated at the bottom of the headlamps also set it apart. Prices are yet to be confirmed, but it should cost around ?65,000 when it arrives in showrooms next spring.

Meet the meanest and...

Meet the meanest and greenest SEAT Ibizas ever! First up is the fire-breathing Cupra, which uses a 178bhp 1.4 TSI engine, fitted with both a turbo and a supercharger. It also gets a seven-speed DSG box with steering-mounted paddleshifters.

Mitsubishi Motors UK...

Mitsubishi Motors UK has unveiled the final edition of the current generation Lancer Evolution supercar. Just one version of the new Evolution IX MR (‘Mitsubishi Racing’) will be available, powered by a 366bhp version of Mitsubishi’s 2.0-litre turbo engine. Claimed performance is 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 157mph.

Most drivers know nothing...

Most drivers know nothing about the official fuel economy labels designed to help them choose their next new car. That’s according to research from the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, the industry group which persuaded dealers to display the informa The colour-coded stickers were launched a year ago, but most motorists never even get to see them. They are displayed on barely half of showroom cars and sales staff rarely explain their meaning.

Motorists who sport...

Motorists who sport the special "watch" have been convicted of drink-driving, and it"s designed to stop them repeating their crime.

Niece Glenda Shaw said...

Niece Glenda Shaw said it was wrong that Percy"s life-saving safety aid should be considered as a way of making money.

Nissan is set to update...

Nissan is set to update its award-winning Note. The range – which was voted Best Supermini-MPV in Auto Express’s New Car Honours (Issue 971) – will comprise Visia, Acenta and Tekna trims.

Nissan"s 370 has blown...

Nissan"s 370 has blown its top! This is the first picture of the new Roadster version, which has appeared on a teaser site for New York Motor Show.

Only one in five insurers...

Only one in five insurers recognises new civil partnerships ruling. Survey by www.confused.com finds 19 per cent of cover providers offer discounts to men in such relationships.

On the Up. This is the...

On the Up. This is the latest concept from Volkswagen and it’s called the VW Up, a car that is designed with the future in mind from the German giant. It’s one for the city but it will hold four passengers and it’s a break from the norm for VW as the car will be rear engined and is reminiscent of the early Beetle.

Our spies caught the...

Our spies caught the fresh-faced family hatchback being put through its paces, and as the pictures in this week"s mag show, the brand"s trademark nose and crescent-shaped headlamps are set to give the car, dubbed the 308, a distinctive look.

Parent company DaimlerChrysler...

Parent company DaimlerChrysler has found that a locking ring within the steering system has not been attached properly, which could result in it failing. Only 1,650 of the 12,000 cars sold since May have been affected – and while the ForTwo isn’t in UK dealers until September, some left-hand-drive models have already found their way into Britain.

Parking firm NCP, which...

Parking firm NCP, which employs wardens in Islington, north London, has claimed the metre-high doll is a symbol of victimisation of its employees. "It might be a bit of fun to some people, but others can easily be offended," said a spokesman.

Performance fans will...

Performance fans will love the sleek Firepower concept. Based on a Dodge Viper, the luxurious grand tourer is powered by a 6.1-litre V8, but a UK-based spokesman told us: "The Firepower is more Aston Martin than Viper."

Powered by a 645bhp...

Powered by a 645bhp Wankel rotary engine, the Skycar uses four fans to lift it into the air, which can then propel the two-seater to speeds of up to 380mph. The range is said to be 900 miles, and it can cruise at altitudes of up to 29,000 feet.

Premium car buyers are...

Premium car buyers are being “lulled into a false sense of security by the cars’ badge and prestige image”, according to its motor expert Peter Stratton.

Production in the UK...

Production in the UK would centre around a range of five MG sports cars, and Nanjing has pledged to manufacture 80,000 units annually here within five years. It has said this would create 2,000 jobs in the Midlands.

Renault: Save ÷£1,000...

Renault: Save ÷£1,000 on run-out Clio Campus, while Mégane estate and saloon get free Sony sat-nav and three years" servicing for ÷£100 until 31 March.

Robbie Kerr raised hopes...

Robbie Kerr raised hopes of a long-overdue debut A1 GP triumph by qualifying on the front row at Sentul in Indonesia. But he slipped back to finish the sprint race in third, and retired from the feature race after spinning out of fourth.

Royle Motors has opened...

Royle Motors has opened in the Speke area of Liverpool, not far from the Aigburth district where the actor hails from. It offers MoTs and repairs, and has joined the Good Garage Scheme, which has more than 1,700 members nationwide.

RUSSIA: Council bosses...

RUSSIA: Council bosses in Tashtagol have ordered stray cows to be impounded, as they"re causing traffic chaos. Pictures of the animals are shown on TV, and owners pay a fine to get them back.

Sat-nav units are among...

Sat-nav units are among the most popular items taken from cars. Andy Foster, Crime and Disorder Reduction Officer at South Yorkshire Police, said: "More than í‚á£300,000 worth has been stolen here in the past two years." Many owners hide their system in the boot when leaving their car.

Scientists have developed...

Scientists have developed a vehicle marking liquid which, the maker claims, is superior to anything previously seen.

Second-hand cars are...

Second-hand cars are the most complained-about purchases in the UK, according to new Government figures. The Office of Fair Trading’s free helpline, Consumer Direct, received 55,202 complaints from buyers last year – a rise of nearly 20 per cent.

SECOND-HAND mobile snack...

SECOND-HAND mobile snack bars can be found for a few hundred pounds, but a brand new, 20ft-long, four-wheel Wilkinson Showstopper trailer costs a whopping ÷£19,800.

Second-hand motors purchased...

Second-hand motors purchased from independent dealers prompted more complaints from the public than any other goods or services in 2006. The group took 37,594 calls about used cars – 12,795 more than mobile phones. TVs were the third most complained about items.

Seen here from the rear...

Seen here from the rear for the first time, the Fusion is similar in style to the British fleet favourite, with a strong stance but a conservative look overall. The new model is intended specifically for the US, where it will be marketed as a compact car.

Significant savings...

Significant savings can be made on bumpers, front wings, door panels, bonnets, headlamps, radiators and radiator grilles - the parts most likely to need replacing after an accident - and the price reductions apply to vehicles registered between 1989 and 2000, depending on the model and part.

Skoda Motorsport will...

Skoda Motorsport will choose one lucky winner to ride in the Fabia WRC through the shakedown stage on Thursday, 16 September. You"ll be driven through the stage by one of the Skoda World Rally Team"s drivers - Toni Gardemeister, Armin Schwarz or newcomer Jani Paasonen.

Steering upgrades on...

Steering upgrades on Renaultsport M탩gane Trophy are to be rolled out across entire range from autumn. Scenic will get them too.

Subaru’s new Justy...

Subaru’s new Justy is now on sale. The 1.0-litre petrol-powered supermini costs ÷£8,495, is packed with kit and has a five-year/60,000-mile manufacturer warranty.

Surveys regularly reveal...

Surveys regularly reveal tailgating is one of motorists" biggest worries. Astucia, an Oxford-based company specialising in the hi-tech studs, is behind the plan. A spokesman told us: "We"re in preliminary talks with highways officials about how the technology can be used to stop vehicles travelling too closely together."

Take a stop off at Land...

Take a stop off at Land Roverò€™s Paris show stand and you"ll see that the firmò€™s greenest Freelander ever is ready to start!

That"s great for economising...

That"s great for economising during a dry spell, but not so good for the bodywork on your car, as grit and other particles can get trapped in the sponge and scratch the paint. However, US valeting specialist Meguiar"s has a neat solution.

"The AA has never and...

"The AA has never and will never endorse a fuel additive product," a representative told Auto Express. Other contentious claims - about emission levels and fuel economy - have been removed since our expos탩 in issue 814.

The ad, which is also...

The ad, which is also on Renault"s website, features people shaking uncontrollably as a M탩gane drives by. But 10 viewers felt the footage mocked Parkinson"s Disease victims. A spokeswoman said: "It was withdrawn when we realised it was causing offence."

The Airbox CM3 is a...

The Airbox CM3 is a router which lets you connect a PDA, laptop or a games console to the Web via a 3G mobile phone.

The all-new Forester...

The all-new Forester is getting boxer diesel power! Subaruò€™s highly acclaimed new engine is the worldò€™s first horizontally opposed oil-burner, and from the end of this month it will feature in the latest SUV.

The breakdown group...

The breakdown group has just revealed its most unusual call-outs - and animals have caused many of the bizarre problems.

The car features electronically...

The car features electronically controlled four-wheel drive, which only engages at all corners when it"s needed. Fold-flat seats increase interior practicality and there will be a choice of three engines at launch - a 2.0-litre VVT-i petrol and a pair of 2.2-litre D-4D oil-burners, which produce 136bhp and 177bhp respectively. A spokesman for the Japanese firm told us: "There"s no confirmation of a three-door model yet."

The car will be the...

The car will be the first European Ford to feature hybrid technology. Our spies caught the seven-seater MPV undergoing road trials. In the middle row of chairs is an engineer with a laptop, while directly below him is the nickel metal hydride battery pack, which provides the power for the petrol/electric drivetrain.

The car will debut at...

The car will debut at March"s Geneva Motor Show, with a 223bhp 3.0 V6 or 145bhp 2.0 engine. Prices are unconfirmed, but buyers wanting the bigger cabin have snapped up every example due before the autumn.

The Cobra badge is back...

The Cobra badge is back – but not on a supercar! This FPV Cobra pick-up was unveiled at the Sydney Motor Show, and is the work of Ford Australia’s tuning division, Ford Performance Vehicles.

The company specialises...

The company specialises in 24-carat gold plating, so you’ll be able to touch up your alloy wheels, badges, grille, bumpers or interior trim – and you can be as subtle or extravagant as you wish.

The concerts will take...

The concerts will take place at night in the open-air ExCeL arena in London"s Docklands. It will run alongside the riverside venue of the day-time motoring extravaganza, and gig-goers will get free passes to the motor show itself earlier in the day.

The current Ka"s successor...

The current Ka"s successor is set to appear in 2010, but the Italian firm"s version will go on sale next year. It will resurrect the famous 500 badge, and bosses hope the brand will enjoy the same success that BMW has experienced by bringing back the MINI name.

The eagerly anticipated...

The eagerly anticipated Toyota Corolla replacement, the Auris, has gone on sale - in Japan.

The facelift comes as...

The facelift comes as the blue oval"s European president, Lewis Booth, admitted the current model didn"t do the job. "This market was slightly different to what we expected," he said. "But we sold 100,000 in Europe last year, so it"s not a total failure." Sources say the Fusion will get a major makeover, including new bumpers, headlamps and grille. Inside, the dash will be redesigned. The move is to try to make up ground on the Vauxhall Meriva and Honda Jazz. UK Fusion sales stood

The firm, which was...

The firm, which was formed in 1886, originally made only a few hundred spark plugs a year. Today, that figure is around 300million, built mainly at the Bamberg plant in Germany.

The first five examples...

The first five examples of Rolls-Royce’s Drophead Coupé have been delivered to their lucky owners – and Auto Express has been for an exclusive ride in one of them. However, the car we tried wasn’t sold through one of the firm’s six franchised outlets!

The flexible shaft means...

The flexible shaft means that you can get it into places which would prove impossible with a conventional rigid design. And this added manoeuvrability should ensure working on your motor is a little easier.

The former unveiled...

The former unveiled the technology first - on its Q7 SUV - while the latter said that it would put a unit into the Cayenne in the future. Audi"s hybrid layout uses the firm"s 350bhp 4.2-litre V8 engine mated to an electric motor, which boosts torque by 200Nm to 640Nm in total.

The Golf GTI is getting...

The Golf GTI is getting even faster - and you"ll have to be quick to get one! To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the hot hatch legend, VW is set to introduce the limited-edition Golf GTI Edition 30.

The idea is to prevent...

The idea is to prevent dumping, but critics have argued it"s admitting defeat in the battle to get drivers to dispose of old bangers themselves. That can cost up to í‚á£50, so people abandon them instead.

The Japanese manufacturer...

The Japanese manufacturer already offers a large range of financial services such as credit cards and loans in its homeland, but it"s now looking to extend this into other countries. The company, which overtook Ford as the second-largest car company in the world at the end of last year, is poised to set up the Toyota Financial Savings Bank in America. And if the move is successful, other banks could be established around the globe.

The lightweight sports...

The lightweight sports car features special gold eight-spoke alloys, through which bespoke blue front brake calipers can be seen. Inside, the cabin boasts leather door linings and seats, while the dashboard, centre console and handbrake sleeve are covered in Alcantara.

The long awaited "small"...

The long awaited "small" Rolls Royce has finally broken cover... This carefully cropped image - apparently taken from the official pictures released by Rolls Royce - has surfaced on the internet ahead of the car"s official unveiling at midnight tonight.

The LRX is not the only...

The LRX is not the only Range Rover gunning for exclusivity. This £140,000 model is a collaboration between bespoke gunmakers Holland and Holland and Range Rover tuners Overfinch.

The main visual changes...

The main visual changes come at the front, with fresh headlights and a redesigned grille. The new Cayenne, S and Turbo have been given more powerful, direct petrol injection engines. These Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) power units lower the fuel consumption of individual models by over eight per cent.

The MR2 has been Toyota"s...

The MR2 has been Toyota"s purest open-top thrill-ride for an incredible 22 years. This summer is the end of the line, and the last 300 cars built for the UK market will be special edition TF300s. Each will be built to customer specs, and its position in the final production run will be individually stitched into the back of each seat and authenticated by a special certificate.

The newcomer, due on...

The newcomer, due on sale here this time next year, will sit on an all-new platform. And the exhibition car will be a long-wheelbase variant, which the firm is keen to stress will be sold only in the US.

The "Pidplates" are...

The "Pidplates" are injection-moulded and chrome-plated logos, made from the same materials as most car"s brand and model details. Motorists can choose any combination of letters and symbols up to 20 characters, to add a personal message, or advertise their company in a more stylish way than stuck-on plastic.

The plan, coming on...

The plan, coming on the back of a record sales year in 2006, should guarantee more new models from the Italian marque and continue its revitalisation under Audi.

The previous record...

The previous record was 85.3p in 2000, when drivers blockaded roads to protest at the soaring costs and government plans to raise taxes on fuel.

The RAC Foundation polled...

The RAC Foundation polled drivers across the UK, and in some areas found as many as 95 per cent were opposed to pay-as-you-drive schemes.

There was a blast from...

There was a blast from the past at this week’s Specialty Equipment Market Association show (SEMA) in Las Vegas. Pontiac revealed a concept that looked like a vintage racer.

There were more than...

There were more than one million thefts from vehicles in 2004 and 2005, according to the British Crime Survey, but with the high-security notebook case you stand a much better chance of hanging on to your kit.

There will be a low-cost...

There will be a low-cost F1 option in 2010 - that"s the news from the FIA, as they revealed that teams will be able to sign up to a £40million budget cap for next season.

The road safety charity...

The road safety charity is calling on companies to adopt a generic name for electronic stability control and end the confusion caused by a glut of different abbreviations, such as ESC, ESP, VSC and VDC.

The round headlamps...

The round headlamps, curvy tail-lights and top-heavy silhouette have been dropped in favour of the family look carried by the Stilo and Panda - but the MPV is still innovative inside. The original two-row, six-seat interior remains, alongside the generous 430-litre boot. And when the passenger chairs are folded down, the luggage capacity increases to 1,300 litres.

The star has bought...

The star has bought a Maybach 57S from the German firm"s Centre of Excellence in Stuttgart. Not content with the standard model, though, the Snakes on a Plane star also ordered a refrigerator, champagne glasses and folding tables. The ÷£293,000 limo will be kept at his California home.

The supermini comes...

The supermini comes with stickers, metallic paint and 14-inch alloys, plus new interior trim, air-con, Bluetooth and split-folding rear seats. It’s based on the 1.2-litre Dynamic but, at ?7,195, works out ?400 cheaper.

The Team RAC BMW driver...

The Team RAC BMW driver (right) is stepping up to the FIA World series for an appearance at Brands Hatch, Kent, on 23 September.

The three certainties...

The three certainties are death, taxes and petrol going up in price. Since the middle of March, the average price of unleaded has risen from 90.5p to 94.6p a litre.

The van is a joint venture...

The van is a joint venture between the blue oval and component firms Ricardo and Valeo. A prototype at this stage, it"s being evaluated by potential customers over the next 12 months.

The white bumpers hold...

The white bumpers hold the only clue to its potential - they have been cut and modified to accept a longer wheelbase. Apart from that, the car is almost identical to the current model.

The work of art was...

The work of art was chiselled out of 9.5 tonnes of Canadian ice, and took three sculptors from specialist company The Ice Box 350 hours to do. The model was put on display outside the trendy Saatchi Gallery in London. If the sculpture had been left to melt naturally, it would have taken three or four days, but it was broken up after only 24 hours for safety reasons.

They say the heavy duty...

They say the heavy duty adhesive is an effective way of stopping plate theft. Best of all, it"s a quarter of the cost of Government-recommended "thief-proof plates".

This is the most powerful...

This is the most powerful Elise Lotus has ever built. Called the SC, it has a 217bhp 1.8-litre supercharged engine and can sprint from 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds. Top speed is 150mph.

Thomas Weber, a member...

Thomas Weber, a member of the DaimlerChrysler board, confirmed: "We will use a diesel in the Maybach." The amazing news came during a talk on the future of Merc"s oil-burning models. A colleague let slip earlier that a V12 diesel was under development specifically for use in the limo.

Two hours after the...

Two hours after the firm lifted the wraps off its steaming new Raptor concept, now named the Reventon, it was still almost impossible to get past the press pack to get a look. Once in, though, it was hard to tear your eyes off the Italian firm"s newcomer - which its obviously hoping will launch it into Top Gun position among the supercar gliterati.

Unveiled at the Essen...

Unveiled at the Essen Motor Show in Germany, the Formula Racing (FR) model has new bumpers, honey-comb grilles, titanium-coloured door mirrors and twin tailpipes to help distinguish it. Inside, a unique steering wheel and white instruments set it apart from lower-spec cars.

Unveiled in China this...

Unveiled in China this week, it"s the size of a two-seater sports car, but has a 2+1 configuration, with a pair of front seats and a rear bench offering space for an adult or two children. It"s powered by an electric motor that gives a 0-60mph time of around 10 seconds, a top speed of 85mph and a range of 180 miles.

USA: A Florida thief...

USA: A Florida thief stole a metal box from a car believing it contained cash, and blew it up. It actually held 11 pounds of gun-powder, and destroyed his house.

Using a special simulator...

Using a special simulator that shows ‘real life’ situations, it hopes to demonstrate to drivers the benefits of the Electronic Stability Program (ESP). A three-minute simulator ride explains how the technology works and the way in which it helps to avoid accidents.

WANT the look of the...

WANT the look of the MINI Cooper S without the price? This Dark Silver metallic paint was previously exclusive to the hot hatch, but is now available on new special-edition Graphite versions of the One and Cooper.

Want to beat the long...

Want to beat the long waiting list for a new Fiat 500? We’ve found out how you can – and the version we’ve seen promises zero emissions into the bargain! Of course, there’s a catch – this is a pedal-powered lookalike and it only seats one.

We"re used to seeing...

We"re used to seeing disguised cars – but this one has not been snapped by our network of spy photographers. We covered it up ourselves! Why? Underneath the wrapper is the Caravan Club’s Tow Car of the Year, which Auto Express has helped to pick.

What do you buy if Cadillac"s...

What do you buy if Cadillac"s STS isn"t big enough? How about this SLS? Based on the US brand"s sporty BMW 5-Series rival, the limo is 100mm longer than standard, featuring more rear legroom

When the motor show...

When the motor show comes to town, Detroit really starts to live up to its Motor City nickname. Ford is naturally big news at the US expo, and this year’s press conference was just as spectacular as ever.

While US cars struggle...

While US cars struggle for popularity in Europe, models going in the opposite direction are clearly more successful. That"s why the Vauxhall Astra will debut in the US badged as a Saturn

Who said electric cars...

Who said electric cars had to be slow? Audi has stolen the show in Frankfurt with a fully electric supercar based on the R8.

You can either key in...

You can either key in destination addresses, or use a full seven-digit UK postcode search to set your path. This newest edition also includes free traffic updates, which will offer re-routing options to avoid any problems and help keep you out of jams. Additionally, safety camera sites can be downloaded through the system.