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Honda Civic (2011) at Frankfurt motor show

This is the ninth generation of Honda’s small car star, which has gestated from trend setting (Civic Mk1 of 1972) to stylistically dull if technically advanced (most) to sci-fi-style wacko but technically mainstream (Civic Mk8). New Civics, over the years, have been about as easy to forecast as David Beckham’s next hairstyle as Honda engineers – never the most predictable bunch – veer from brave to bashful. The new Civic, unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show, is eye-catching although less off-centre than generation eight, and is closed basely mechanically on its predecessor.

Ariel Atom V8 (2010) first official pictures

This is the really rather mad Ariel Atom V8. That’s right, this tiny little track-biased car has an eight-cylinder engine driving its rear wheels. And it’s a 3.0-litre V8 that produces 500bhp at 10,600rpm, to give the new Ariel Atom V8 a Bugatti-beating 909bhp/tonne.

Renault working on 141mpg plug-in hybrid concept

Renault is working on a 141mpg plug-in hybrid concept car, according to Renault head of research, advanced studies and materials, Remi Bastien. Speaking to MSN Cars at Renault’s recent ‘Innovations’ event – showcasing the French manufacturer’s new technology that will underpin its next-generation models – Bastien revealed the new car will make its debut in 2014. On Bing: see pictures of Renaults Find out how much a used Renault costs on Auto Trader This means the ‘2l/100km’ concept car will likely make its first public appearance at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, alongside the firm’s new rear-engined Twingo city car.