Mercruiser Flame Arrestor 85784 on 2040-parts.com

Infiniti to build new Mercedes A Class based model in UK

The new Infiniti premium hatch, based on the underpinnings of the new Mercedes A Class and looking like the Etherea Concept, will be built in the UK. Infiniti announced only yesterday that it is introducing a new nomenclature for its cars (Q for saloons/coupes and QX for SUVs/Crossovers) and all new cars will come with a Q at the beginning followed by a number to denote its hierarchy in the Infiniti range. Where exactly that leaves the name of the new ‘baby’ Infiniti, we’re not exactly sure (Q30 or Q40 seems the most likely), but we are pretty sure what it will look like and what will be under the skin.

Ken Block signs for Ford and the WRC

Ken Block – who became a YouTube sensation with his gymkhana stunt series ¬– has ended months of speculation by confirming he’ll compete in the 2010 World Rally Championship – switching his Subaru Impreza for a Ford Focus, while he'll also rally a Fiesta in the US. The Monster energy drink-backed deal will form a key part of Ford’s plan to market its hatches in America, and follows last year’s Pikes Peak Fiesta. It’s a tentative start for Block, who’ll be competing in select rounds of the WRC championship – Mexico is believed to be the first – to hone his skills.

Ford Freestyle under investigation for low-speed surges

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating the Ford Freestyle wagon for complaints that it surges forward at low speeds. More than 200 complaints have been lodged about the issue, alleging that the Freestyle jumps forward at low speeds even when the accelerator isn't pressed. NHTSA is investigating about 170,000 Freestyles in model years 2005 through 2007.