In brief

Frog into Unimog
Mercedes has celebrated 60 years of building the Unimog with a radical open-bodywork concept inspired by a poisonous frog.

Coupe kitted out
Mini's coupe will get the John Cooper Works and SD performance engines from launch to suit its sporting focus when it debuts in September.

M is for mighty
BMW's 1 Series M Coupe launches here next week. The smallest M car gets a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder turbocharged engine with 250kW and a mighty 450Nm of torque. An overboost function adds 50Nm.

Show debut for XV
Subaru will reveal its XV concept at July's Melbourne Motor Show. The model is under evaluation for local sale after its 2012 launch.

Volvo gets app-y
Volvo has launched a free iPhone and Android app that will give drivers of 2012- model cars onwards the ability to remotely locate their car on the map; activate horns, heaters and indicators and unlock the car; and check fuel and fluid levels.

1 Series smoothed
BMW's new 1 Series gets a softer face, more space and better fuel efficiency from a range of four-cylinder turbo engines, with an eight-speed auto option. The car also gets internet connectivity.

Ute en route to Aus
Mazda's BT-50 freestyle cab ute will make its global debut at the Melbourne Motor Show in July. The Australian market is likely to top global sales of the model.