Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer on 2040-parts.com

Rolls and Aston plan new convertibles

ROLLS-ROYCE and Aston Martin have both announced exciting new convertible models, giving workers at the UK-based car makers a welcome boost to their job security. Aston is set to début a new member of the Vantage family, after shoe-horning a V12 engine into an open-top body to create the V12 Vantage S Roadster. It will make its public entrance at the Pebble Beach Auto Week in California, starting on August 14.

Leaked photos may show the 2014 Mazda 3

Mazda might not have planned on revealing the 2014 Mazda 3 lineup until next year, but photos showing the redesigned sedan and hatchback may expose the car’s lines a few months ahead of schedule. If the images are to be trusted, the Kodo design language—readily apparent on the upcoming 2014 Mazda 6 sedan and wagon—will make the jump to the smaller, less expensive Mazda 3 as well. Gone is the controversial “smile” grille worn by the 2012 Mazda 3.

Porsche 918 Spyder races toward production

OK, let's put the usual arguments to rest first: The Porsche 918 Spyder is going to be even faster than the Carrera GT in a straight line. That's based on Porsche's own computer simulations in anticipation of the production version of the gasoline-electric-powered 918 Spyder, which is due to roll off a dedicated line within a decommissioned paint shop at Porsche's Zuffenhausen, Germany, headquarters next year. The claimed 0-to-62-mph time is 2.8 seconds; 0-to-124 mph is 8.9 seconds, and top speed should be about 202 mph, thanks in part to series of active aerodynamic functions, including a multistage rear wing.