Lotus expands its model line-up Lotus has expanded its range with the introduction of the Europa, along with offering its Elise for sale in the US.
The Malaysian-British joint-venture is now about to release another new model. This new car will bebigger than the current Elise. Code-named the "Eagle", it has been photographed here undergoing cold-weather testing in Scandinavia.
The "Eagle" is powered by a mid-mounted 3.5-litre Toyota petrol engine.
As Lotus has already learned on other models, taking a mass-produced engine from a big car maker has two advantages: firstly, the engineers can concentrate on the car's chassis and safety.
Secondly, a mass-produced engine means it is guaranteed to pass strict EU and US emission regulations at an affordable price.
A concept version of the new car is due at the British Motor Show in July this year.
Alfa Romeo has released the first photos of its new compact sports car, Mi.To. One of the smallest Alfas ever, it is based on the Grande Punto floor pan. Four engines will be offered, starting with a 90bhp 1.4-litre petrol up to a range of 155bhp engines.
The name is derived from the Italian word mito meaning "myth" and the initial letters of Milan and Turin, cities famous for the Fiat and Alfa brands.
Alfa claims the car takes several cues from the 8C Competizione sports car, including LED lights.
It also features Alfa's latest dynamic control system with three settings: Dynamic for sports driving; Normal for town; and All-Weather for tougher climates. The car is due to go on sale in Ireland next January.