New BMW 3-series bows, performance-oriented 335iS joins the lineup

A new performance-oriented 335iS model endowed with an M-sport styling kit and unique chassis settings heads the list of changes BMW brings to its facelifted 2011 3-series coupe and convertible. Set to slot into the lineup between an upgraded 335i and the M3 when it goes on sale in March as an exclusive for North America, the 335iS runs a tuned version of BMW's N54 engine, as found in the recently unveiled Z4 sDrive35iS, coupled to either a standard six-speed manual or an optional Getrag-engineered seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine of the 335iS adds a special software package to bump power to 326 hp and lift torque to 332 lb-ft--or to an even gutsier 369 lb-ft for short periods via an overboost function that unleashes added turbocharger boost pressure.

Ford EcoSport for Europe heading for Geneva 2013

The Ford EcoSport – a butch little SUV based on the Ford Fiesta – is heading for a European reveal at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The new EcoSport arrived in Delhi last year as Ford’s take on the funky little urban warrior market – think Nissan Juke – and it looks a properly purposeful little urban runaround, with its butch stance and statement grill. We thought when the EcoSport launched in India that it seemed more than likely that Ford would start to market the EcoSport in Europe, and last September – at Ford’s ‘Go Further’ event in Amsterdam  Ford confirmed the EcoSport would arrive in the UK and Europe, and now it’s heading for a European debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.

Tesla Model X SUV will ONLY be available with four wheel drive

The Tesla Model X (pictured) will only be available with 4WD The Tesla Model X does promise to be a very appealing SUV, even if its main USP for business users – zero BIK – will have been scrapped by the time it arrives in the UK. When it does arrive, prices are expected to be similar to the Model S Saloon and, just as with the Model S, Tesla are planning a variety of battery capacity options and, we thought, an entry-level rear wheel drive model. But Green Car Reports, in response to a reader enquiry, has got confirmation from Tesla that they have now decided that all Model Xs will come only with the 4WD powertrain fitted.