Volkswagen Corrado Transmission, Manual, 1990 on 2040-parts.com

Mini crossover to carry base price of $22,350

Mini's new Countryman crossover will start at $22,350, only $550 more than the three-door Clubman wagon. A well-equipped Countryman in a Cooper S trim with optional all-wheel drive will cost just under $30,000, Jim McDowell, head of Mini USA, said Wednesday during the media launch for the vehicle. The prices include destination charges, Mini said.

Lotus Hybrid – the Lotus Evora 414E – at Geneva

The only photo we have of the Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Last year we reported on a range extender engine developed by Lotus for use in hybrid cars. The range extender engine was part of a joint project between Lotus, Jaguar, MIRA and Caparo in conjunction with the Technology Strategy Board and was designed to provide charge – rather than drive – for hybrid cars. A solution that seems far more elegant than the current Prius-type setups.

Local Motors Active Lifestyle Vehicle Challenge winner announced

The winner of the first Local Motors Active Lifestyle Vehicle Challenge has been revealed as John Bukasa, who won $1,500 for his CLIMAX design. This was the first contest held as part of the annual Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year awards – which are in their tenth year – hosted by Carspondent, which celebrates the cars that best cater for people leading active lives. The brief challenged designers to develop a concept that enhances its owner's performance as an athlete or active adult/family.