Mazda Laputa 2001 Heather Blow Motor [0867900] on 2040-parts.com

Ford Escape and Ford Focus output boosted to meet clunker demand

Ford Motor Co. is boosting third-quarter production of the Escape and Focus to replenish inventories depleted by cash-for-clunkers demand. Ford is adding another 10,000 units in the third quarter, primarily Escape and Focus, bringing planned North American production for the period up to 495,000 vehicles, up 18 percent from year-earlier levels.

MG Icon SUV Concept revealed ahead of Beijing debut

MG Icon SUV heading for Beijing The MG Icon – a compact SUV Crossover – has been revealed ahead of a debut at the Beijing Motor Show. Men with beards and pipes will be dismayed at the news that there is going to be an MG SUV, but there is and it’s the MG Icon – which might be setting the bar a but high. Looking like a cross between and MGB GT and a Juke, the MG Icon is expected to share a platform with the MG5 and MG6 and be powered by the 1.5 litre four-pot SAIC used in the Chinese versions of the MG and Roewe.

Skoda Fabia Scout – UK Launch

  The new Skoda Fabia Scout has launched in the UK We were a little underwhelmed when the Skoda Fabia Scout was revealed, and we really haven’t changed our minds. We can’t argue that Skodas don’t offer great value for money -  and they are very well bolted together – but the Skoda Fabia Scout seems to lack the substance to substantiate its promise. Based on the Skoda Fabia this is a ‘butched-up’ version featuring a raised ride height, added chunky bits of plastic and looks like it will be a great little crossover estate.