Suzuki Alto 2007 Steering Column [7647140] on 2040-parts.com

‘Imported from Detroit’ 300C goes AWD

The Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition is returning for 2014. For the first time, it will be offered with all-wheel drive with an active transfer case and front-axle disconnect for better fuel economy. Fashion icon Varvatos put his stamp of approval on the special edition slab-sided sedan.

First Sight: Mercedes-AMG GT

“If I was to buy any sports car that wasn't a Mercedes, it'd be a Porsche 911,” says Mercedes' head of design, Gorden Wagener. “But when you see the two cars together, we think ours has the edge.” He's talking about the new Mercedes-AMG GT, a front-mid engined, two-seater sports car that's unashamedly aimed at higher-end 911s, and we've come to see it at Mercedes' Sindelfingen studio.  The GT replaces the larger SLS, and is seen by Wagener as the best example yet of his 'sensual purity' design philosophy: “The SLS is very much [he gestures] line, line with a surface in between. With the GT we started with the surface and worked to refine and reduce the number of lines.” Elements of the SLS's platform have been carried over, so the GT measures the same 1,939mm wide.

Future products: Geely must retool Volvo plans

Ford Motor Co.'s sale of Volvo to Geely in August leaves doubt about the Swedish company's product plans. For example, all of Volvo's current range except the 9-year-old XC90 crossover makes use of Ford vehicles and components. The XC90 is based on Volvo's P2 platform and was developed before Ford ownership.