testing

On the eve of the Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi has unveiled its much-anticipated 2012 DTM challenger - the A5 DTM. Bearing the internal project name "R17" at Audi Sport, the new A5 DTM conforms to the new technical regulations that will come into effect for the 2012 DTM season, which have been designed to achieve three key aims: improve the safety of the vehicle, reduce costs by up to 40 percent and showcase a spectacular exterior design.

Like me, it probably hadn't occurred to you that in order for Mercedes to create a roadster version of its popular SLS AMG, it would need to lose the gullwing doors. Okay, it sounds obvious now that I've said it, but it still seemed something of a surprise to hear Mercedes announcing as a revelation that the SLS AMG Roadster had proven to be stable even without the gullwings.

Today is a big day for MINI, as it officially launches its return to international rallying with the MINI WRC Team. At an event to be held at the MINI plant in Oxford later this morning, guests and rally icons will welcome the brand's return to the sport with all the razmatazz of a Mike Tyson comeback.