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Mazda plots cleaner diesels, rotaries, stop-start

By Richard Aucock Motoring Issues 19 September 2008 07:00 Mazda has opened its R&D department up to CAR, in a demonstration of how it's tackling a changing world. It's spilled the beans on its future engine tech, how it's going to continue stripping weight out of its cars, when stop-start is coming – and more besides. Read on for the lowdown on Mazda's eco tech future.And it's not all boring.

Maserati looking at LaFerrari for MC12 successor

Maserati is looking into building a successor to the MC12 Stradale supercar based on the Ferrari LaFerrari, according to a report from Autocar. Maserati boss Harald Wester didn't confirm it to the British magazine, but admitted there is an opportunity. The new car would use the chassis and suspension components from the LaFerrari, but not its electric motor and KERS system.

Smart for-us

The latest addition to the Smart conceptual range is the for-us pickup, which follows on from the forspeed convertibe of Geneva, and the forvision hatchback that was unveiled Frankfurt, delivering another twist on the iconic city car platform. Despite the increase of size to 3547mm in length, traditional Smart iconography such as the tridon safety cell, three-spoke wheels and product-like execution – such as the inner lamp graphics – retain the brand identity. Squarer lamp and grille graphics and knobbly rocker surfacing add a twist of robustness.