Sr20det Aac S14 Idle Air Valve on 2040-parts.com

Audi A3 Concept (2011): first pictures

Audi has released first sketches of the Audi A3 concept, ahead of its debut at the 2011 Geneva motor show. Audi is previewing the upcoming A3 with this saloon concept. It's powered by the fan-favourite five-cylinder turbocharged engine in 408bhp specification. Quattro four-wheel-drive and a seven-speed S-tronic double-clutch transmission complete the powertrain.  Sizewise, the new A3 saloon is 4440mm long, 1840mm wide and 1390mm high.  That's longer than the current A3 Sportback (4.3m) but shorter than the current VW Jetta saloon (4.64m). The new concept is slightly wider and lower than the current A3.

VW win Dakar Rally in a Diesel Touarag

The Dakar rally is a cruel and hostile event, over 5000km of the toughest territory for any car rally. Never before won by a diesel engined vehicle, VW has achieved a first by not only winning the gruelling event in a diesel Touarag, but coming in second as well. This ends a seven year domination of the Dakar Rally by Mitsubishi.

Chevrolet Sonic

The Sonic is Chevrolet's latest attempt to induce a small car in the American market and take on the Ford Fiesta in one fell swoop. Replacing the generally unaccepted Aveo, the Sonic draws from a youthful and aggressive design in a bid to appeal to the younger market. Available as a four-door sedan (seen here) as well as a five-door hatchback, the Sonic displays a 'progressive exterior design', according to the American brand's press materials.