Mazda Mx-5 Racing Transmission on 2040-parts.com

Is the V8 a dying breed? Auto engineers expect more turbos, smaller engines

The V8 engine, a symbol of power and prestige for more than a century, is looking more and more like an endangered species. A panel of powertrain experts speaking on Tuesday at the 2009 SAE World Congress painted a bleak picture for big engines in this era of tightening emission standards and volatile fuel prices. But smaller engines will not mean drivers have to give up performance.

Opel/Vauxhall Adam Rocks previews crossover, cabrio

Opel/Vauxhall has previewed its Adam Rocks 'concept' ahead of its world debut at next month's Geneva motor show. This mini-crossover is taller and wider than the production Adam thanks to a suspension raised by 15mm with a 20mm wider stance. Its fabric sunroof suggests it will compete with the Fiat 500C and the new Citroen DS3 Cabrio.  The sketches show unpainted plastic bumpers and extended wheelarches along with underbody protection, emphasizing its rugged appearance apparently inspired by "parkour athletes".

Mini Countryman (2010): first official pictures

This is the Mini Countryman, the fourth addition to Mini’s range – after the regular three-door hatch, the Convertible and the Clubman – and also the first current-generation Mini to have four-wheel drive and four regular passenger doors. No, Mini says the Countryman is a crossover, and the four-wheel drive system – called Mini All4 – is an option. Think of the Countryman as a slightly bigger and more practical Clubman with a longer wheelbase than other Minis, four proper doors and a conventional lift-up rear hatch, but to make sure it looks a bit more butch Mini has given the Countryman a bigger, bluffer nose than its siblings.