2004 Kawasaki Stx-12f Intake Silencer Stx-15f on 2040-parts.com

BMW M3 set to compete in DTM from 2012

It might have pulled out of F1, but the upshot is that BMW has announced plans to enter the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) in 2012 with the M3, plus it’s developing a new racer and 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, and will continue its other production car-based racing activities. ‘Following the withdrawal from Formula One, the realignment of our motorsport programme is raising our presence in production car racing to a whole new level,’ said BMW board member Dr. Klaus Draeger.

Peugeot 2008 crossover (2013) first pictures of new Juke rival

Should Nissan's Juke, Vauxhall's new Mokka and the upcoming Ford Ecosport be worried about a French revolution? This is the new Peugeot 2008, the latest so-called 'compact crossover' to take supermini genes and add an extra helping of ride height and ruggedness. First previewed as a lurid green concept at the 2012 Paris motor show, the production 2008 tones down the show car's angular lights and massive wheels, but sticks true to the idea of a taller, roomier 208 supermini.

Volvo S60 Polestar Gothenburg debut

The Volvo S60 Polestar – a BMW M3 basher – is due to debut in Gothenburg on 16th June 2012 and could get as much as 500bhp. Yes, Volvo are busy downsizing their engines and trying to up the quality perception of their cars at the same time, in an aim to join the proper premium club inhabited by the likes of BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Jaguar. But that doesn’t mean Volvo should forsake performance in their cars, because even if performance models are not the bread and butter for premium car makers they are the golden halo that casts a premium gloss on lesser models.