Quick news: McNish crowned WEC champion, auto 'box for Fiesta Ecoboost

Allan McNish has been crowned Britain’s first sportscar world champion in 21 years. McNish, alongside co-drivers Tom Kristensen and Loïc Duval, took third place in Shanghai yesterday, taking the championship with a race to go. The Audi R8 e-tron quattro took three wins, three seconds and a third this season. Audi retained the World Endurance Champtionship manufacturers’ title.

The Ford Fiesta is now available with the 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine mated to a six-speed, dual clutch transmission. It is the first time this powertrain configuration has been offered. Ford claims CO2 emissions of 114g/km and 57.7mpg on the combined cycle. Powershift models are priced from £16,195, a £1250 premium over manual models.

The Volkswagen CC R-Line has been introduced. The new edition is based on the CC GT, but sees the addition of a new front bumper, sill extensions, 18in alloy wheels and an R-Line multi-function steering wheel. The CC R-Line is available with 2.0-litre TSI and 2.0-litre TDI engines, with either manual or DSG gearboxes. CC R-Line models are priced at £650 over the equivalent GT and first deliveries are due in January.

Lexus has added a new range-topper to its RX SUV range. The Lexus RX 450h Advance adds new bodystyling and Lexus’ I-AFS auto-adaptive headlights to the Luxury model, the previous flagship. Other equipment includes new 19in alloy wheels and the choice of a fixed panoramic roof or an electric sunroof. The model is priced at £48,495.