Hedman Header Reducers 3" Inlet / 2.5" Outlet 3-bolt Flange 21102 on 2040-parts.com

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL previewed by leaked brochure

Here's the image that has the Web abuzz today--an apparent brochure scan of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL distributed by a European automotive site. Design cues reminiscent of the SLS AMG are unmistakable, and the new SL also takes on a fairly prominent iteration of the corporate front fascia. Underneath, Mercedes is promising a new aluminum architecture that will save weight while boosting rigidity.

L.A. auto show: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze dials in 40 mpg

A key piece of the future of General Motors will be on display next week in Los Angeles. Yes, the Chevrolet Volt will be there. But so too will the 2011 Cruze, the new compact car in Chevy's lineup due towards the end of next year that promises up to 40 mpg on the highway.

Insurance group lists its Top Safety Picks

After increasing its standards for 2011 models, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says that 66 vehicles--more than double the 2010 total--rate as best in the industry at protecting passengers from front, side, rollover and rear crashes. Only 27 vehicles qualified last year after the group, funded by the insurance industry, required that vehicles pass a roof-strength test to earn a good rating, claiming that stronger roofs would reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury by 50 percent in a rollover accident. The most mentioned carmakers on the 2011 list are Hyundai/Kia and Volkswagen/Audi, both with nine vehicles to get the Top Safety Pick designation.