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BMW's new M engine needs a better voice

BMW's M division claims its new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine is every bit as good -- if not better -- than the glorious, naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 powerplant it replaces in the new M3 sedan and M4 coupe. The figures are certainly impressive. They say it kicks out 424 hp and more than 25 percent extra torque, with what is described as significantly more than 369 lb-ft below 2,000 rpm.

Who's Where: Giles Taylor appointed Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design director

Giles Taylor has been appointed Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design director, with effect from 1 July 2012. He previously held the position of head of exterior design. Taylor will report directly to senior vice president BMW Group design, Adrian van Hooydonk and will replace Ian Cameron who retires from his position to become a brand ambassador until his retirement in April 2013.

Americans plan to keep their cars longer, AutoPacific study finds

In another chilling sign that auto sales are likely to remain stalled, a new study finds that Americans intend to keep their cars longer, indicating a general concern about the industry and the overall economy. The number of new-car buyers planning to keep their rides more than four years has risen to 59 percent, according to a study released Tuesday by California marketing research firm AutoPacific. That's an increase from last year, when about 45 percent of new buyers intended to wait more than four years for their next purchase, and it's up from 2005's tally of 46 percent.