Ford puts Sync Applink into more vehicles

Ford is expanding its Sync Applink technology, adding it to several 2012 models that will start arriving in dealerships late this summer. Sync Applink, which debuted on the 2012 Ford Mustang earlier this year, enables drivers to access their smartphone apps via Sync's voice controls. Applink will be included in the Sync package, which is an extra-cost option on many Ford vehicles.

2012 Porsche 911 7-speed gearbox in action +video

2012 Porsche 911 7-speed gearbox video below Some of us are old enough – just –  to remember when a 3-speed gearbox was normal. And, quite often, located on the column. Cars like the Vauxhall Cresta and Ford Zephyr had them, but they now belong to a completely different world to the one inhabited by the 7-speed manual gearbox in the new Porsche 911.

Audi A1 subcompact teaser

Audi has released a teaser shot of a new premium subcompact, the A1, which will be revealed at the Geneva auto show in March. The shot is a graffiti-style teaser and reveals very little. Still, it appears to be a fairly bold design, with a prominent front end, short front overhang and large wheel wells.