World Auto News & Reviews

The BMW Group and Allianz SE are planning to intensify their cooperation on a global level. The CEOs of the two companies, Norbert Reithofer and Michael Diekmann, signed the respective declaration of intent in Munich yesterday.

The agreement focuses on a range of vehicle and mobility related insurance products for end customers, such as automobile insurances and used-car warranties. These products are to complement the broad range of financial services already offered by BMW Financial Services.
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Last year, Citroen announced that it was conducting a feasibility study for the C-Cactus concept in order to assess whether taking the model to production would be a viable business option.

Now, these photos have leaked of an alleged C-Cactus in development, although we cannot confirm the authenticity of the images here.
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Startech has announced a new styling and performance package for the facelifted Jeep Grand Cherokee (WK).

This particular Overland model is outfitted with a new front spoiler (with LED daytime running lights), a revised rear apron, and attractive side sills with integrated LED lighting. Other touches include a stainless-steel sport exhaust system, a suspension lowering kit (reduces ride height by 30mm / 1.2 inches), and 22-inch Monostar IV wheels equipped with Pirelli Scorpion tires.
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Mazda took the wraps off of its new gasoline and diesel engines, as well as a new high-efficiency automatic transmission, ahead of the powertrains’ official debut next month at the Tokyo Motor Show.

The SKY-G direct injection gasoline engine (first two photos) promises improved torque and fuel economy – up about 15 percent from Mazda’s current 2.0-liter MZR powertrain – thanks to the advances. Mazda hasn’t said when the SKY-G engine will enter production, but it’s a good bet that it will eventually show up in the Mazda3 sedan in North America. We’d anticipate it to crank out around 170 horsepower while achieving around 30 mpg combined in the Mazda3, although the automaker hasn’t officially released numbers.
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Chrysler’s new CEO, Sergio Marchionne, who also reigns over the company’s new Italian parent, Fiat, will be stepping down from the board of directors of Swiss bank UBS next year according to the financial institution.
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