Roadside Reading: August 9th Edition

Here's our roundup of today's news across the web that you shouldn't miss featuring the new Mazda CX-5, the VW VR6 20th birthday and Nissan's MX-5 fighter.

Happy 20th birthday Mr VR6!
Exactly 20 years ago today, one of the most revered 6-cylinder engines was offered for the first time. Known worldwide as the VR6, this spunky 6-pot was also the first of its kind from Volkswagen. In North America, it debuted in 1992. (via Auto123.com)


GM Invests $117 million in Oshawa Assembly Plant
General Motors will invest $117 million to prepare the Oshawa Assembly Plant to build the all-new Cadillac XTS, creating or retaining 400 jobs on the Flex Line. "This investment further extends the capabilities of the award-winning Oshawa Assembly Plant and pays compliment to the achievements of its dedicated workforce, one that consistently strives for excellence," said Kevin Williams, president and managing director of General Motors of Canada. (via Auto123.com)

Ford Edge to get EcoBoost!
No more than a week ago, we brought to you news on the eventual coming of an EcoBoosted 4-pot to the new Explorer. Now, we can let you know that Ford will be dropping the same lump into the Edge. Yup and no one will be surprised to learn about this move on Ford's behalf. (via Auto123.com)

World Premiere of Mazda CX-5 at Frankfurt Motor Show
Just in case there weren't enough to choose from in the segment, another compact crossover SUV will join the ranks this fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show: the brand new Mazda CX-5. Featuring Mazda's brand new SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY as well as all-new gasoline (SKYACTIV-G 2.0) and diesel (SKYACTIV-D 2.2) engines. (via Auto123.com)

Nissan MX-5 fighter to come
Years ago, Nissan had intended to bring to various markets a compact and sporty RWD car to compete in many ways with the incredibly successful Mazda MX-5. The plan got dumped a few years ago given the uncertain direction of the market at the time. How things have changed! In an effort to regain some lost momentum, Nissan has every intention to launch 52 new cars and trucks between now and 2016. (via Auto123.com)