HERE ARE the most interesting and talked-about stories over the past five days, collated and summarised by us.

Monday, January 7

James Batchelor was appointed editor of Car Dealer Magazine – with previous editorial director James Baggott becoming managing director for the publication. Read more.

The UK car market exceeded two million units in 2012, the latest SMMT report suggested – beating early reports that suggested it may slump. Read more.

The Ford Fiesta topped the best selling car list for 2012 – beating the likes of the Vauxhall Corsa and its sibling the Ford Focus to the crown. Read more.

Peugeot showed off its brand new 2008 – the first crossover of its size that the French firm has produced.

 

Tuesday, January 8

Used values set ‘an industry high’ in December, reports from auction house BCA suggested. Read more.

Vertu Motors PLC acquired two new dealerships in Cumbria – Dobies Vauxhall and Seat in Carlisle, adding to the firm’s rapidly growing network in the North of England. Read more.

Nissan UK’s network should ‘prepare for growth’, Nissan’s UK Chief Jim Wright told Car Dealer Magazine. Read more.

Halfords announced plans to allow its centres to function as car licensing test centres – helping the DVLA to cut its costs.

 

Wednesday, January 9

Hyundai reported big successes in 2012 – with the company’s market share in the UK at an all-time high, and marking the first time a Korean firm has found its self in the top 10 best selling manufacturers. Read more.

Jaguar Land Rover had a record year in 2012, reports by the company suggested – likely helped by the big successes of the Evoque.

Dominos purchased two rather  unlikely delivery vehicles – a pair of electric Renault Twizys, which will be used at of the pizza firm’s Swindon franchise.

Council profits from parking prices rose as spending on roads fell, a report revealed.

 

Thursday, January 10

Bosch opened a new automotive training centre in Uxbridge, Middlesex – after its previous premises in Buckinghamshire became overcome with demand for the courses it offers. Read more.

Lexus gave its IS model a bold new look – replacing the Alan-Partridge-favourite’s silky but dull appearance with a racy grille and lines.

Land Rover displayed a new special edition version of its popular Evoque – painted bright lemon and called the ‘Sicilian Lemon’ edition.

 

Friday, January 11

One third of all new cars are fitted with DAB radios, a report from Digital Audio UK revealed – as BMW and Ford move to introduce it across their ranges as standard. Read more.

Gemini Systems appointed Martin MacIver, previously at Ford of Britain, in a manufacturer liaison role. Read more.

Hyundai displayed a sneak peak of some cutting edge technology – which should allow buyers of the next i30 to perform various functions of the car with their smartphones.