Toyota targets conventional engine in defense of green image

In the race to boost fuel economy, overhauling the internal combustion engine is all the rage. Ford, Hyundai and Mazda are among those focusing on direct injection, turbochargers and improved transmissions as they reinvent their powertrain lineups. So with its emphasis on hybrids, Toyota Motor Corp.

CDN-GM/PATAC Interactive Design Contest 2013 launched

After the overwhelming success of its European and North American interactive design competitions, GM and Car Design News are excited to announce the launch of their first competition exclusively for the Chinese market, the CDN–GM/PATAC Interactive Design Competition China. According to Bryan Nesbitt, Vice President of Design at GM International Operations, "We are excited about the potential regarding a China-dedicated competition. Design is the initial product differentiator in the automotive retail space, so demand for top design talent will continue." This is a great opportunity for young designers who are currently enrolled as students of Chinese universities to showcase their work on a global stage.

VW Golf wins 2013 European Car of the Year

Volkswagen's Golf is the 2013 Car of the Year. Announced at a ceremony on the eve of the Geneva motor show, the seventh-generation Golf scored the most points from the 58 voting jury members, from 22 European countries. Each juror has 25 points to distribute among the eight-strong shortlist, which this year comprised: Peugeot 208Renault ClioFord B-MaxHyundai i30Volkswagen GolfMercedes A-classVolvo V40Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT86 It was a resounding victory for the Golf, which scored 414 points to the second placed BRZ/GT86's 202.