Volkswagen New Midsize Coupe debuts at China motor show

The Volkswagen NMC (New Midsize Coupe) concept makes official the German carmaker's plans for a style-led sedan to challenge the likes of the strong selling Mercedes-Benz CLA. Unveiled at the Beijing motor show, the new four-door closely previews a future Jetta-based model that will slot into the Volkswagen lineup beneath the existing Passat CC, most likely in 2016. Volkswagen design boss Klaus Bischoff describes the NMC as “avant-garde protagonist for a new compact sedan class.” Looking all but ready for production, it continues the current Volkswagen design lineage, with crisp features and lines, heavily horizontal detailing, and taut surfacing -- all aimed at providing it with a technical-inspired appearance.

Ford GT Sells For a Record $11 million at RM's Monterey Auction

RM Auctions sold a 1968 Ford GT40 Gulf/Mirage coupe Friday night at its Monterey sale for $11 million, setting a record for the highest price paid for an American car at auction. The Friday sales showed once again a very strong market for cars selling at auction, according to statistics gathered by classic car insurance giant Hagerty. In comparing this year's sales to last year, the total number of cars sold in two days of auctions was down slightly while the total amount generated -- $67.5 million – is far greater, as is the average selling price.

Alfa's North America return pushed to 2013

Alfa Romeo's return to North America has been delayed at least a half year partly because Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is not satisfied with the design of the cars that will lead the brand's comeback in the crucial market, people with direct knowledge of the matter told Automotive News Europe. The delay also is a serious blow to Alfa in Europe because without the Giulia mid-sized sedan and station wagon the automaker will have one of the weakest premium brand lineups in Europe. Alfa parent Fiat S.p.A.