VOLKSWAGEN STYMIES PORSCHE ATTEMPS TO MERGE
Volkswagen froze talks over a merger that could bail out its majority owner Porsche SE , leaving the luxury car maker scrambling to reassure investors a deal to unite the two was still alive.Porsche insisted the talks to create a sweeping automotive empire were still on and that it faced no short-term financing issues, but the standoff heightened market concern about how the firm would fund its 9 billion euro ($12.1 billion) debt pile -- sending its shares down more than 9 percent at one stage.
A Porsche source confirmed a report it had asked German state bank KfW whether it could qualify for 1 billion euros in loans. Porsche said it had not applied for state aid.
2010 MAZDA

The all-new 2010 MAZDA3 4-Door features pulse-racing details like class-leading technology, distinctive design and a signature thrilling performance that sets it far apart from common compact cars. It is also one of Mazda's most economical cars, making the thrill even more rewarding.
EXTERIOR
The MAZDA3's stunning good looks brings bold style to a category not known for it. Taking key design cues from the Nagare concept vehicle, the new design features a strong, dynamic exterior characterized by long, sweeping lines that elongate the vehicle and a bold, aggressive stance that pushes the width while also bringing it visually lower to the ground.
Its aerodynamic curves are set off with available low-slung fog lights and Self-leveling Bi-Xenon High-Intensity-Discharge (HID) headlights complete with an Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) that peers around corners as you maneuver. Available rain-sensing windshield wipers, dual body-color power heated mirrors with side marker turn-signal lights and newly-designed 16-inch steel or alloy wheels, or available 17-inch alloy wheels that accent its long lines. While available chrome dual exhaust outlets and LED taillights leave a bold, unmistakable impression, completing the visual feast that is the 2010 MAZDA3's bold new design.
INTERIOR
The completely redesigned, sporty interior features a smooth, sculpted cockpit that gives it a larger, more stylish feeling with proper focus on the driver. Blue LED lighting welcomes you as you enter the MAZDA3. Available leather-trimmed seats with an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory and 5-level variable heated front seats, so your ride's always just how you like it.New available advancements include Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio capability*, dual-zone automatic climate control, a compact navigation system and a 10-speaker Bose® Centerpoint® Surround System with AudioPilot®
With nerves already stretched after VW called off merger talks set for Monday, a source close to Volkswagen Chairman Ferdinand Piech told Reuters that a meeting scheduled for Wednesday was also canceled. Discussions could only resume if Porsche sheds more light on its finances, the source said.
The news focused attention on the potential financial risk posed by Porsche's complex web of derivative contracts, which have undermined its attempts to forge closer ties with conservatively funded VW.
"We must get a clear idea of the true state of affairs at Porsche. We need absolute transparency with regard to the present situation," Volkswagen Chief Executive Martin Winterkorn wrote in a letter to staff seen by Reuters.


