1970 Mercedes 280 Sel Cigarette Lighter W108 (69) on 2040-parts.com

Former Volvo design boss Steve Mattin to join Russia's Lada

Former Volvo Cars design chief Steve Mattin will head design at the Russian brand Lada. Mattin will start at the Russian automaker on Oct. 1, Lada's owner AvtoVAZ told Automotive News Europe in an email.

Ferrari to revive GTO name

Ferrari is set to return the evocative GTO (Gran Turismo Omolagato) name to its lineup on a limited-edition, two-seat version of the F599 Fiorano GTB. The new car, conceived to run bodywork and mechanical components from the Italian carmaker's race-bound 599XX, is expected to make its public debut at the Paris motor show in September--marking the first time the GTO badge has been applied to one of Ferrari's road cars since the launch of the much-revered 288 GTO in 1984. Among the changes brought to the new car is a series of carbon-fiber exterior panels, a stripped-out interior and specially developed alloy wheels--all aimed at lowering the weight by 132 pounds from the 3,718 pounds of the F599 Fiorano GTB.

Toyota Urban Cruiser hits the UK

The Toyota Urban Cruiser hits UK Car Showrooms today [ad#ad-1] Toyota’s baby 4×4 – The Toyota Urban Cruiser – hits UK showrooms today after being unveiled at the Paris Motor Show last year. Looking like a Toyota Land Cruiser that’s been through a boil wash, the Urban Cruiser is designed to take sales from buyers of super minis looking for something a bit different. It’s also looking to take sales from drivers of conventional sized 4x4s who love the high driving position, but are looking for something a little more economical in the current climate.