Ignition Switch Actuator Acdelco Gm Original Equipment D7060a on 2040-parts.com

UK has 'highest car running costs'

THE UK is the most expensive country in the world for running a car, according to a new survey. Comparing the cost of fuel, insurance, road tax and MOT, on average it costs the UK motorist £3,453 a year, which is £1,000 more than in the USA and Australia, £1,825 than Japan and a full £2,000 more than in China. The survey, conducted by Webuyanycar.com, compared the cost of motoring in 21 countries on five continents, and revealed that on many fronts the UK motorist is paying more than anyone else.

Video: Buick Invicta

General Motor's Buick brand is blossoming in China, so the automaker chose the largest Chinese Auto Show this year to unveil its latest concept: the Invicta. Unlike the Riviera concept shown in Shanghai last year, the Invicta is slated for production soon given the level of refinement we saw when we viewed the car in Beijing. And unlike some market-specific new cars unveiled at the show, the Invicta will make its way to other markets across the globe. Click on the image on the left to see a video of the development and the designers who worked on the Invicta concept car.

First Sight: BMW 1 Series

This is the first BMW to compete in the premium lower medium European car class defined by cars such as the Audi A3 and Alfa Romeo 147, although spiritually it follows the significantly smaller BMW 2002 Touring produced from 1968 to 1976. A little more compact that the 3 Series (which will grow in size with next year's new model) the 1 Series effectively replaces the 3 Series-based Compact and extends the brand downward to just above the Mini. The 1 Series was previewed by the CS1 two door convertible concept shown two years ago at Geneva, with which it shares much of its exterior proportions and form, and some interior design themes.