Standard Motor Products Ry1072 Headlamp Relay on 2040-parts.com

Two new Hyundai transmissions boost mpg

Hyundai will introduce dual-clutch and continuously variable transmissions to models for the United States as early as next year as it seeks to become a leader in fuel efficiency, a top executive says. This will be the first application of a dual-clutch transmission for Hyundai. The transmission--which uses two clutches to shift a manual gearbox as if it were an automatic--is more efficient than either a traditional manual or automatic gearbox.

Kia Picanto

Kia is set to unveil its next generation Picanto city car at the Geneva motor show in March in the next step of its continual range overhaul. As these first images show, the diminutive A-segment hatchback has been totally redesigned to give it what Kia describes as a 'bolder, more mature and more self-confident look'. While the outgoing model's high H-point (and corresponding proportions) remain, its DRG has been brought further in-line with the rest of the Kia range, with Venga-referencing headlamp graphics, a 'tiger-nose' grille and a surprisingly dominant trio of faux air intakes.

Acura retools lineup to put the focus on mpg

Honda will overhaul and reposition its Acura lineup over the next 18 months and abandon its long pursuit of top-tier luxury-car status for the brand. After years of trying to propel Acura into the front ranks with Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus, Honda says it will settle for offering mid-level premium vehicles that favor fuel economy over performance. With one exception: At the Detroit auto show in January, Honda will bring back the Ferrari-fighting Acura NSX--a new version of the mid-engine supercar that disappeared in 2005 after a 15-year run.