MotorExpo London 2009 – a quick look

Merceeds Benz E Class is just one of the exhibitors at London' MotorExpo 2009 So it looks like, with a few exceptions such as the Geneva Motor Show, we will have to make do with ‘Boutique’ style shows. But at least they’re usually free and you do get pretty good access to the cars. And this week sees MotorExpo open for business in London’s Canary Wharf, with a reasonably impressive range of manufacturers showing up to display their latest wares, and a smattering of UK debuts to boot.

20 special-edition copies of the Ferrari 458 Italia sent to China

The first factory car from Maranello to hit the shores of China was a 1992 Ferrari 348 TS. Twenty years later, Ferrari is celebrating its anniversary in the country by producing 20 special-edition copies of the 458 Italia inspired by the market. In addition to the car, Ferrari will open its first permanent brand exhibition outside of Maranello at the Italian Center of Shanghai's World Expo Park.

Mini to return to the WRC in 2011 with 4x4

Mini is back in rallying, more than 50 years after it ruled the roost at Monte Carlo and beyond, giving a huge shot in the arm to the World Rally Championship. In typically audacious style BMW has announced it will campaign the Countryman SUV rather than the standard Mini, starting with selected WRC rounds in 2011 followed by the entire 2012 season.It’s also a return to WRC for Banbury-based Prodrive, the outfit behind Subaru’s legendary WRC success, who will develop the car and run the team. Prodrive last campaigned in the 2008 season, and have been developing the Countryman since early 2009.