Racequip Seat Belt Pads on 2040-parts.com

BMW: Don't fear the stop/start system in the 2012 3-series

BMW is taking a calculated risk by installing an automatic stop/start system on its best seller, the 3-series, for 2012. But company brass is optimistic that American consumers will adjust to the relatively foreign technology. "Many customers will enjoy the car very quickly," said BMW board member Ian Robertson, who oversees sales and marketing.

Volvo V70

Volvo has just released details of the all-new Volvo V70 wagon. With its more athletic lines, fast windscreen angle, blacked-out side pillars and C30-inspired taillights, the V70's style is said to hint at its newfound on-road dynamism. The rear end features an unusual design where the tailgate takes the upper area of lamps with it when opened, giving the advantage of making the trunk aperture larger than before.

Lexus ends production of LFA supercar (2012)

The final example of Lexus's carbonfibre supercar – the LFA – has rolled off the company's Motomachi production line in Japan, bringing to an end a seven-year journey from the initial concept model, and two years of LFA production. It's surely the longest gestation and shortest lifecycle of any car in recent memory. That final Lexus LFA will be worth a few bob in years to come then...