Suzuki 17471-98400-0ed Pump Case Cover on 2040-parts.com

McLaren on track to launch MP4 in U.S. in '11

McLaren's plan to launch the 200-mph MP4 supercar in the United States and Canada in mid-2011 are on course, says the newly appointed boss of North American operations. Tony Joseph, McLaren's regional director for North America, says rumors that the North American launch of the MP4 is being delayed are untrue. “There is no validity in that story whatsoever,” he says.

4x4 prices rise sharply

FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE cars are soaring on the used car market, according to car auction house British Car Auctions (BCA). Off-roader values rose by up to 16% in October as the first signs of winter emerged. With some medium-term weather forecasts highlighting a colder-than-average winter, BCA is predicting that 4x4 prices may keep rising.

Fiat 500L: UK price from £14,990

Fiat has revealed that their supersized 500 – the Fiat 500L – will cost from £14,990 for the 1.4 litre 500L Pop Star or Easy. Actually based on the Punto underpinnings, rather than the 500′s – the 500L is Fiat’s take on the MINI Countryman (well, both the 500L and the upcoming 500X SUV) and designed to extend the appeal of the 500 – Fiat’s most successful model – to a market that has outgrown the diminutive 500. Starting point for the 500L is aether the ‘Easy’ trim or ‘Pop Star’ trim (more daft trim levels) and come with standard features including a 5″ touchscreen radio, Bluetooth, Cruise, Electric door mirrors and leather on the gear knob and steering wheel.