Explr Spt 2003 Fuel Filler Door 39229 on 2040-parts.com

Longest ever period of UK new car sales growth

The SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) has released the new car registration data for May 2014, and revealed that the UK new car market is officially experiencing its longest period of growth since records began. Sales in May were up 7.7% compared to 2013 – making it the 27th consecutive month that figures have increased. A grand total of 194,032 new cars registered also represents the most units sold in May since 2004.

SsangYong releases new Rodius sketches

SsangYong has released the first images of its new Rodius MPV, soon to be unveiled at next month's Geneva motor show. Based on SsangYong's ‘Robust, Premium, Specialty' design philosophy the carmaker says the new Rodius is "styled to be fit for outdoor, off-road driving as well as on-road driving". The front three-quarter sketch shows that the exaggerated, streamlined front grille has been retained – albeit it with a slight modification – while it also features angular headlamps.

New 200hp engine for Vauxhall Astra

The Vauxhall Astra GTC is now available with a 1.6-litre direct injection engine that produces 200hp – making it the most powerful non-VXR Astra ever. The new four-cylinder Ecotec engine is the same as that used in the convertible Vauxhall Cascada. On Bing: see pictures of the Vauxhall Astra GTC Find out how much a used Vauxhall Astra GTC costs on Auto Trader Vauxhall claims the new engine is one of the most refined units in the segment, and also points at its improved performance and fuel economy figures over the previous 1.6-litre turbocharged motor.