Car News

Mercedes-AMG has recalled the C43, C63 and E63 over concerns about the front seat backrests. According to the company, the laser welding between the backrest member and backrest fitting might not comply with manufacturer specifications. As a result, the welds might not withstand the required load values and the fitting could detach from the backrest, putting passengers at risk of injury. A total of 76 cars are affected by the recall – a VIN list is attached here.

Mercedes-Benz Australia has confirmed the X350d ute will arrive in local showrooms in December, with pricing to kick off at $73,270 before on-road costs. That's a little more than the top-spec Amarok V6 Ultimate's current $68,490 ticket price, while the recently-launched Ford Ranger Raptor kicks off at $74,990. Two equipment lines will be offered – Progressive and Power – with specification levels largely mirroring that of the equivalent four-cylinder models.

Skoda has unveiled the Karoq Scout, a more rugged version of its mid-sized SUV that should appeal more to those who regularly venture off the beaten track. While not an all-out off-roader, the Karoq Scout boasts numerous enhancements to give it a more capable look and feel, and comes as standard with all-wheel drive.

Seat has revealed the Leon ST Cupra Carbon Edition for the UK, sporting unique enhancements over the 'standard' hot wagon on which it's based. Limited to just 50 units in Britain, the Carbon Edition draws upon the 300PS (221kW) all-wheel drive Leon ST Cupra wagon – itself based on the hi-po Volkswagen Golf R – and adds niceties like carbon-fibre finishes for the side blades along with the front and rear bumpers.

These photos of two BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe prototypes seemingly confirm the styling details of a four-door flagship with a sloping roofline, revealed earlier this year in a trademark filing. It also follows the template set out by the M8 Gran Coupe concept, which was unveiled at this year's Geneva motor show. The Gran Coupe is expected to round out the new 8 Series' body style offerings, which also include a coupe and will expand to encompass a yet-to-be-launched convertible.