Garmin Gpsmap 176c on 2040-parts.com

Toyota Prius Recall: 5,000 UK cars affected – 242,000 worldwide

5,000 2009 Toyota Prius (pictured) are being recalled Toyota has had a bit of a nightmare with recalls in recent years, and the news that they’re now having to recall 242,000 Prius models from 2009 worldwide is another financial, and logistical, problem for Toyota. But in truth, the recalls are about car makers now taking responsibility for faults in their cars which become apparent long after warranties have expired, and that’s no bad thing. The Prius models affected are those built between March 2009 and October 2009 (you can check if your car is affected here) and the UK has 4,947 cars on the road that need to be looked at by Toyota’s dealers.

Fiat 500byGucci. Yep, another ‘Special’ Fiat 500

Fiat 500byGucci - legs by Natasha Poly Somewhere along the way both Fiat and MINI decided that the ultimate marketing tool for their trendy, retro-inspired superminis was an endless stream of variations and special editions. And it’s worked. So it’s no surprise then that we’ve got another new Fiat 500 to add to the list of special edition Fiat 500s, this time it’s linking to an iconic design brand with the Fiat 500byGucci (and that’s Fiat’s joined-up ’500 by Gucci’, not our fat fingers on the keyboard).

Ford C-Max Energi qualifies for California tax credits, HOV lane

The 2012 Ford C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid will cost as little as $28,495 in California after $5,250 in tax credits available for buyers. It was also just approved for the high-occupancy vehicle lane in the Golden State. The C-Max Energi is rated for 21 miles on electric power only.