Consumer Reports slams new Honda Civic

Honda Motor Co., still struggling with supply shortages of the redesigned 2012 Civic after the March earthquake in Japan, took a slap in the face today when Consumer Reports rated the new Civic "too low to be recommended." The 2012 Honda Civic dropped 17 points, from a very-good score of 78 to a mediocre 61, in the latest Consumer Reports road test of small cars. Previous Honda Civic models have often been Consumer Reports' highest rated small sedans, as well as Top Picks in five of the past 10 years. But the redesigned model was slammed for the cheapness of its interior, poor ride quality, long stopping distances and loud interior noise.

Renault buys Caterham stake in Alpine as Anglo-French deal collapses

By Michael Karkafiris Motor Industry 10 June 2014 10:36 The collaboration between Renault and Caterham officially ended today, with the French company acquiring Caterham’s remaining stake in Alpine. It marks the end of the road for the Anglo-French collaboration, leaving Renault the sole owner in Société des Automobiles Alpine. Today’s announcement terminates the 50-50 partnership signed in November 2012 between the two companies, a partnership that started with the promise of building two sister sports cars, one from Alpine and one from Caterham.

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo to start at $22,725

Hyundai has released pricing details for the 2013 Veloster Turbo, giving it a starting price of $22,725 for the manual-transmission-equipped model. Specifying an automatic transmission will cost you $1,000 more. In addition to the turbocharged 1.6-liter powerplant that produces 201 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, the Veloster Turbo also includes a unique body kit and wheels, as well as LED headlight accents and taillights.