Irish Advanced Motorists (IAM) has a few tips for those travelling to university this week on how to load all their clothes, books, stereos, TVs and food, and allow students to kick-start their college life safely.

Mazda recently announced a commitment to improve the fuel economy of Mazda vehicles sold globally by an average of 30 per cent by 2015.

Hyundai has completed development of a new, fuel efficient and cleaner diesel engine for compact cars. The new 1.6-litre diesel engine uses a second generation common rail diesel injection system.

The Mini Crossover Concept is a design study for a fourth variant in Mini's current model range. With four doors, four drive wheels, four single seats and at four metres in the length, the Crossover Concept claims to combine versatility and style.

SsangYong, one of Korea's niche car and 4x4 makers, plans to unveil a new compact passenger car concept at this year's Paris Motor Show.

Demand for electric vehicles is claimed to be increasing across Europe as motorists feel the pressure of rising fuel prices, congestion charges and increasing road tax.

Toyota announces plans in the UK recently to carry out road tests on a plug-in hybrid vehicle. The vehicle will form part of energy company EDF's fleet and about 50 members of staff will test it for about a year.

Honda has revealed a concept of its affordable family hybrid car, to be displayed at next month's Paris Motor Show.

Volkswagen has an interesting petrol powered Tiguan option, which uses the latest engine technology to generate power and performance from a 1.4-litre engine. This Tiguan compact SUV is a real competitor for the diesels in the sector. Michael Moroney took it for a test drive to assess it value and opportunity. Read what he has to report

Ford's new Fiesta model has been designed for a wider global market than Fiestas of the past. This latest Fiesta, which is a new incarnation of Ireland's best selling small car, has just been launched.