Rolls Royce Allison 250c20/c18 Engine on 2040-parts.com

Driven: Lexus IS-F

The Lexus IS-F is a significant new design for one core reason: it introduces a performance sub-brand parallel to that of the M-cars from BMW, AMG from Mercedes-Benz, and the S and RS sub-brands from Audi. This then is Lexus making a logical next step to further encroach on the established German premium brands. BMW originated the premium brands' performance sub-brand with the 'M for Motorsport' M3 of 1986 (the M1 supercar of 1978 preceded that, but was a singular model, not a performance derivative).

2012 Scion iQ priced at $15,995

As journalists including AutoWeek's own Michelle Koueiter flog the new 2012 Scion iQ in California, pricing information has made its way back to the Midwest. The Scion iQ will cost $15,995, including destination, when it hits dealerships. The car will be released in four phases, starting with the West Coast in October.

'Ambulance chasers' face new controls

THE CULTURE of "ambulance-chasing" lawyers and bogus whiplash claims could come to an end following new measures set out by the Government to crack down on insurance fraud. Lawyers will be banned from offering accident victims incentives such as money or free iPad computers to encourage them to make a claim and courts will be given powers to throw out compensation actions where claimants have been dishonest. The reforms by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) aim to tackle the rise of the compensation culture and reduce the amount being paid out unnecessarily by insurance companies - which can lead to higher premiums for honest customers.