Car News

A facelifted Audi A4 Avant has been spied undergoing winter testing in Sweden. This is the second update to the current-generation A4, and appears more substantial than the revision due to go on sale in Australia from early 2019. While that update has subtly new front and rear bumpers, and a more 3D effect for the grille, this prototype sports a more extensive overhaul.

Prosecutors in Tokyo have indicted Carlos Ghosn, Greg Kelly and Nissan for under-reporting Ghosn's pay in official filings. According to NHK and other Japanese news outlets, prosecutors allege Ghosn's compensation package was understated by up to ¥5 billion ($60 million) over the five-year period ending in the 2014 Japanese financial year.

Audi Australia has expanded its Takata airbag recall, adding the '8E' A4 and '4F' A6 model lines sold between July 2004 and April 2011. This particular notice affects vehicles with potentially-faulty passenger-side airbags. As with all Takata-related recalls, the airbag's inflator propellant could degrade over time as it gets exposed to high temperatures and humidity.

BMW Australia has announced pricing and specs for its incoming M850i xDrive, set to start at $272,900 before on-road costs when it arrives in March 2019. Two variants will be available from launch: the M850i xDrive Coupe and M850i xDrive Convertible, both powered by the same twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine, making the same 390kW and 750Nm. The former will cost $272,900 before on-road costs, the latter $281,900 before on-roads.

Koenigsegg has revealed its latest special-edition Regera, touting its high-tech new carbon exterior finish. The KNC, or Koenigsegg Naked Carbon, finish involved no lacquer, varnish or alternative coating. Instead, the thin layer of epoxy usually used to coat a cured piece of carbon is gently hand-removed until only the naked carbon remains.