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Alfa's North America return pushed to 2013

Alfa Romeo's return to North America has been delayed at least a half year partly because Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is not satisfied with the design of the cars that will lead the brand's comeback in the crucial market, people with direct knowledge of the matter told Automotive News Europe. The delay also is a serious blow to Alfa in Europe because without the Giulia mid-sized sedan and station wagon the automaker will have one of the weakest premium brand lineups in Europe. Alfa parent Fiat S.p.A.

White House pushes for Friday deal on fuel-economy regulations

The White House wants to announce as early as Friday that it has reached agreement with most automakers on a plan to raise corporate average fuel economy targets to 54.5 mpg by 2025, manufacturers' representatives said Wednesday. While no automakers have signed on to the Obama administration plan yet, most--including Ford, Toyota, General Motors and Chrysler--are generally supportive and intend to do so, the industry officials said. Each manufacturer is trying to iron out technical issues with the White House before endorsing the proposal.

Finance rates confirmed for fastest Seat ever

SEAT HAS announced finance deals that should see its fastest-ever car leave the showroom at furious pace. The entry-level Leon Cupra 265, so named for its count of horsepower, after a £1,000 deposit contribution from Seat, could be yours from £265 per month. Over 36 months, the 4.9% interest deal is fully flexible, and the monthly payments can be reduced with a larger deposit if buyers have something to add to the £1,000 leg-up.