Is anyone getting fed up with the rain yet? I've got to admit I'm beginning to feel rather down in the dumps with the serious lack of British summer time - I haven't managed to do any gardening at Spoiler Towers in weeks.

Luckily, while we wait for the much anticipated sunshine, there has been a lot going on in the automotive world to keep me occupied.

To start with some good news, the SMMT has just revealed that UK car production has increased significantly in the first half of 2012 - manufacturing rose by just over 14% between January and June, and has since remained stable.

This news can only be helped by the fact that price pressure on consumers reduced in June with inflation falling from 2.8% to 2.4% - meaning prices are rising at their slowest since Q4 of 2009. Essentially this means people will have a bit more money in their back pockets, and may be able to consider splashing out on treats - such as new cars. It can only be a good thing since all we've been hearing since the recession started is that people can't afford to get rid of their old bangers.

However, my favourite story of the week was the Which? study into the cost of diesel cars v petrol. This isn't a new debate, I've been hearing it over and over again. Certainly this week's outcome is that petrol is much better on the pocket. Personally I'm wondering if petrol hybrid may be the way forward - I've been driving around in a Lexus CT200h for the past couple of weeks and I have to say I'm pretty pleasantly surprised at the lack of filling up required.

I'll leave you to ponder the petrol v diesel debate for yourself - have a great weekend.
The Spoiler