Videos: Volkswagen's exterior and interior designers highlight the Up's design elements

We've enjoyed the design of Volkswagen's new Up since we first saw the vehicle in concept form at the 2007 Frankfurt motor show. Devoid of any extraneous detailing, the simple, product design aesthetic is pared back to represent the crux of VW's design philosophy: pure, simple and solid.  The result is a harmonious design that stands out from the pack, with simple surfacing and subtle detailing; the Up's design is pure and minimalistic, which serves to exude quality in the product. Inside, the vehicle is brimming with space-saving design details.  From an IP devoid of central air vents to a thin headrest that visually extends the height of the interior, the Up is a success story in space efficiency, but it is also finished to a high level using quality materials.

Crash test scheme to investigate whiplash and stability

By Phil McNamara Motor Industry 12 September 2006 09:30 Electronic stability control and anti-whiplash head restraints should soon be part of the Euro NCAP crash test programme, CAR Online can reveal. Testers are keen to extend the programme beyond today's crash tests, which assess occupant safety for adults and children, as well as pedestrian injuries in an impact. 'We are always looking for the next area to investigate,' an NCAP insider told CAR Online.

BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Review & Road Test (2010) part 2

BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Road test and review - part 2 The BMW 32d EfficientDynamics could have been a step too far. It could have been a  cynical marketing car; one dreamed up by bean counters and marketers instead of engineers and car people. And on paper you could conclude that you’ll be wearing a bit of a hair shirt to benefit from the almost unbelievable eco-stats this ultra frugal 3-Series offers.