Ptcruiser 2005 Antenna 11913 on 2040-parts.com

Mini Convertible (2009): the new R57 cabrio

By Simon Stiel First Official Pictures 28 November 2008 10:46 Mini has just issued the first photos of the new R57 Mini Convertible, which rolls into dealerships in March 2009 and follows the lead set by the latest hatchback. So it's cleaner, a little bit more polished inside and out, and there will probably be evidence of some middle-aged spread when we drive it in 2009.So what's new on the R57 Mini Convertible?All the changes are in line with the Mini hatch, so you get the latest PSA-shared 1.6 petrol engines, BMW group Efficient Dynamics – now redubbed Minimalism in Minispeak – stop-start and intelligent alternator control, helping to contribute to a 22% jump in fuel efficiency, Mini claims. The 1.6 Cooper pumps out 137g/km of CO2.

Volkswagen reveals Taigun concept

Volkswagen has revealed its intention to join the burgeoning compact SUV ranks with the Taigun concept revealed at the Sao Paulo motor show in Brazil. The four-seat Taigun previews the look and mechanical layout for a new Volkswagen model to be positioned and priced below the popular Tiguan. The new SUV will be launched toward the middle of the decade as a rival to vehicles such as the Mini Countryman, Nissan Juke and Chevrolet Trax.

2010 Lotus Evora to start at $74,675

The 2010 Lotus Evora will start at $74,675 when it arrives in the United States in the first part of next year. The exotic mid-engine 2+2 sports car is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 276 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It rips from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and tops out at 162 mph.