Hybrid, SUV, News

Kia confirms new Niro hybrid

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Kia has announced plans for an all-new low emissions vehicle - the Niro.

Representing a new concept from the Korean car brand, the Niro marks the development of Kia's first dedicated eco-car platform, engineered from the ground up as a hybrid vehicle. The new car will maintain 'all the practicality and appeal of a compact SUV, while offering greater fuel economy'.

The Niro's all-new platform has been engineered in isolation from existing Kia models, and is designed to accommodate a specific set of environmentally-conscious technologies and next-generation powertrains.

Hyoung-Keun Lee, Vice Chairman & CEO, Kia Motors Corporation, commented, "Our new model is designed to offer buyers everything they could want from a compact SUV in terms of practicality and styling, while providing the typically low running costs associated with a dedicated hybrid powertrain. By encouraging our engineers to take a 'blank canvas' approach, we have tried to develop a car that will appeal to a broader range of consumers."

The SUV will feature a brand new design, with a 'sporty, aerodynamic body', subtly sculptured surfaces and styling details finishing off the car's modern new look. It will however carrying forward the company's signature 'tiger-nose' grille and a series of other design cues from the latest Kia products. The long wheelbase minimises the size of the front and rear overhangs, while ensuring occupants enjoy the maximum possible interior space.

The main focus of the engineering team was to deliver 'class-leading fuel economy' in the compact SUV segment. The Niro has a target CO2 emissions rating of under 90 g/km (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle).

The car will achieve its ultra-low emissions levels with a downsized hybrid powertrain, pairing Kia's 1.6-litre 'Kappa' petrol direct injection (GDI) engine (105 ps power output and 147 Nm of torque) with a 1.56 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack and 32 kW electric motor. The powertrain's combined power output and torque will be applied to the road through a 'highly-efficient' six-speed double-clutch transmission. A plug-in hybrid powertrain is due to be added to the car's line-up later in its life-cycle.

The Kia Niro is due to be unveiled next year, with production scheduled to start in late 2016.

Sports Car, News, Vintage Car

The Stig names Ford Mustang as ultimate stunt car

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The all-new Ford Mustang has been named the ultimate stunt car by Ben Collins, aka The Stig.

Also a top Hollywood stunt driver, racing driver and former Stig (for eight years) on the BBC's Top Gear - Collins has a new film out called "Ben Collins: Stunt Driver". In the new film, the Ford Mustang fastback - powered by a 5.0-litre V8 engine - beats an array of high-performance road and competition cars during 48 hours of explosive, high-speed challenges featuring aerobatic planes, helicopter gunships and military machines.

"The point of this adventure was to find the perfect car for an epic, high octane, Hollywood-style car chase, and it's the iconic Ford Mustang that gets top billing," Collins said. "Mustang has starred in many a classic car chase during the past 50 years, and is still the stunt driver's weapon of choice to leave the bad guys standing in a cloud of tyre smoke."

Collins' movie stunt driving credits include the James Bond films Quantum of Solace, Skyfall and Spectre, as well as The Dark Knight Rises and Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation. Collins has also competed in Le Mans, GT and NASCAR race series.

The Mustang helped Collins evade baddies in his new film with all-new front and rear suspension systems including integral link independent rear suspension, and standard performance brake packages behind 19-inch wheels. The lightweight chassis delivers up to 0.97 g-force when cornering, says Ford. Launch Control also helps, with the 5.0-litre V8 Mustang sprinting from 0-62 mph in 4.8 seconds.

"Mustang has made more than 3,700 movie appearances and has kept cinema-goers on the edge of their seats in car chases from the legendary 'Bullitt' sequence in 1968, to the first movie to feature the all-new Mustang, 'Need for Speed' in 2014," said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe. "Being named the ultimate stunt car in 'Ben Collins: Stunt Driver' further cements Mustang's place as an automotive and screen icon."

The all-new Ford Mustang is now on sale in the UK now with prices starting from £29,995 (EcoBoost) and £33,995 (V8). The new DVD, Ben Collins: Stunt Driver is out this week.

Pick-up, Diesel, News

New Fiat Fullback pick-up revealed

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Fiat has unveiled a new pick-up called the Fullback.

The new pick-up truck is named after the cornerstone Fullback position in rugby and will be available in the UK in autumn 2016.

Unveiled at the 2015 Dubai International Motor Show, the new, medium-duty pick-up will join Fiat's Professional range and will be available in double cab body style configuration only for the UK, making it an 'ideal vehicle' for both commercial and leisure time activities, says Fiat.

Measuring up to 1,780mm in height, 1,815 mm in width and 5,285mm in length, with a wheelbase of 3,000mm, the Fullback will offer a 'competitive payload' of 1,045 kg and will be powered by a 2.4-litre, aluminium, turbo-diesel engine with a power output of either 150hp or 180hp. Two transmissions will be available, a new six-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automatic transmission with sports mode, and both will be combined with a four-wheel drive system.

The Fullback is Fiat Professional's first contender in the medium-duty pick-up truck segment in the EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa) region. Visitors to the 2015 Dubai International Motor Show will also be able to see the Fiat Fullback equipped with a selection of special accessories currently under development by Mopar, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' brand for after-sales service.

Available in the UK in two trim levels, pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the vehicle's launch in autumn 2016.

Hybrid, Diesel, News

New Toyota RAV4 pricing confirmed

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Toyota has released pricing and specification for the new RAV4.

Introducing hybrid power to the line-up, the new model range includes a choice of powertrains ranging from the 2.5-litre full hybrid, to a new 2.0-litre D-4D diesel and a revised 2.0-litre Valvematic petrol with improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Both front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions are available.

At the same time Toyota is upgrading equipment specifications across the board and introducing Toyota Safety Sense - a package of integrated active safety and driver assistance features - as an option on all versions of RAV4 beyond the entry-point model. The new five-grade line-up also introduces Business Edition Plus trim and changes the flagship designation from Invincible to Excel.

The entry level Active grade is powered by the new 2.0 D-4D diesel engine and starts from £23,695 OTR. The RAV4 Business Edition - also powered by the 2.0-litre diesel engine starts from £24,595 OTR. A new Business Edition Plus model launches as a hybrid/front-wheel drive-only grade and comes with LED front and rear lights, a power tailgate, keyless entry and push-button start, priced from £26,195.

All three powertrains and front and all-wheel drive options are offered in Icon trim. Key additional features include 18-inch machined-finish alloy wheels, LED headlamps, combination leather and Alcantara upholstery. The Icon diesel costs £26,995, petrol £28,295 and the 2.5 Hybrid comes in at £29,795 OTR.

The Excel models adopt the full Toyota Touch 2 with Go package, plus leather upholstery, roof rails and front and rear parking sensors with pricing ranging from £27,995 for the diesel and £29,295 for the petrol to £30,795 OTR for the range-topping Excel 2.5 Hybrid AWD. Two new exterior colours are available for RAV4: Blue Crush and Barcelona Red. 

The new RAV4 range is available to order now with first customer deliveries of petrol and diesel models expected from late December. Hybrid versions will arrive from mid-January.

City Car, Hatchback, News, Family Car

MG3 refreshed for 2016

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The MG3 hatchback has received updates for 2016.

The latest version of the 5-door city car will be available to buy next week, and offers customers better fuel consumption, lower tax and an updated personalisation range - which includes the launch of new combinations and roof colours.

The supermini, which now benefits from a more economical 124g/km of CO2 and a stop-start EU6 engine, also comes with a new chrome grille 'to complement the MG family face'. The MG3's Red Rose and Hello Yellow paints are now available with selected roof colour combinations of white or black.

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing for MG, said: "The MG3 has continued its success from the day it launched in 2013 and, with all that it offers, it's easy to see why so many people have fallen for our fun-packed and stylish supermini. Now we're giving customers a little bit more, with the addition of some great features, but still keeping the price low; making it great value for money and setting us apart from our competitors.

The MG3 EU6 is the latest car to be launched from the Longbridge site. Customers can choose from the four models starting with the MG3 3Time which costs £8,399 OTR, the MG3 3Form from £9,599, the MG3 3Form Sport from £9,899, an MG3 3Style model from £10,49 and MG3 3Style Lux - which comes with the addition of leather seats and is priced from £10,999 OTR.

Hatchback, Family Car, News

Volkswagen reveals upgraded Match Edition

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Volkswagen has unveiled a new Golf Match and Match BlueMotion Editions.

The new Match Edition models add high-end equipment as standard including Discover Navigation with Car-Net Guide and Inform, and Winter Pack. The new cars arrive with an 'even higher' level of specification than the Golf Match they replace - with the additions offering more than £1,100 in value if specified separately, but at a cost of £100.

A 1.0 115PS TSI six-speed manual three-door Golf Match BlueMotion Edition therefore costs from £19,840 OTR. The Golf Match Edition, meanwhile, is available from £20,400 OTR in 1.4-litre TSI 125 PS BlueMotion Technology five-speed manual three-door model form.

Standard features include front and rear parking sensors, front fog lights and a mirror pack - which consists of automatically-folding door mirrors with puddle lights and reverse-activated dipping on the nearside, while the new models add 16-inch 'Dover' alloys and the Discover Navigation system. This includes a 6.5-inch colour touch-screen control system for navigation, CD and radio functions. Preloaded with European navigation data, two map view options, three calculated routes (Fast, Short, Eco), dynamic navigation based on TMC live traffic updates, branded points of interest and Traffic Sign display it also features Car-Net Guide and Inform online services.

The Golf Match BlueMotion Edition is offered with a 1.0-litre TSI 115 PS engine in six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG form, both returning 65.7 mpg combined. The Golf Match Edition with a 1.4-litre TSI 125 PS engine mated to a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG gearboxes returns 54.3 to 56.5 mpg combined.

Available to order now, first deliveries are expected in January 2016.

News, Sports Car

Zenos plans more powerful E10 'R'

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Zenos Cars has confirmed a new E10 model will be its fastest, most focused model to date.

Called the E10R, the British company has released teaser images and details of its super-high-performance brief. The latest addition to the E10 range gets a large increase in power, representing a logical progression for the model says Zenos.

Featuring a carbon and aluminium chassis, carbon fibre bucket seats and running on 12-spoke OZ Racing alloys, the E10R sits at the pinnacle of the range and 'will stay true to the Zenos philosophy of low-cost ownership, offering maximum performance and affordability'.

Mark Edwards, Founder and Managing Director, asks of the new model: "Is it indulgent? Maybe. Is it insane? Very possibly. Is it astonishing? Absolutely!"

The company's first car, the mid-engined E10 is built around a rigid tub and backbone, bonded together to form an 'immensely strong' platform. With the use of recycled carbon fibre, the tub offers 70 per cent of the mechanical performance of new carbon fibre at around 10 per cent of the cost.

Production of the E10 began in January 2015 with the range expanding quickly, producing the E10S, offering 250 bhp from Ford's turbocharged 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine. Zenos Cars was established in 2012 to design and produce high-performance, ultra-lightweight yet affordable sports cars that deliver maximum driving thrills. The company is 100 per cent British-owned, and the cars it produces are 100 per cents British-designed, British-supplied and British-built.

Convertible, News, Sports Car

Limited Edition Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro unveiled

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Mazda has teamed up with German sports seat company Recaro for a limited edition MX-5.

The new Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro has joined the company's sports car line up and is based on the 2.0-litre 160PS Sport Nav model. Limited to just 600 cars it benefits from 'added exclusivity and sporty styling enhancements' inside and out.

Created with the 'discerning sports car fan in mind' says Mazda, the Sport Recaro adds a Brilliant Black Sports Aero kit that includes a rear spoiler, plus front, side and rear skirts. Piano Black door mirrors and 17-inch Diamond Cut alloy wheels with an engraved MX-5 logo complete the stand out exterior appearance.

Inside, the MX-5 cabin naturally gets standard Recaro seats finished in Alcantara on the seat cushion and seat back, while red seat piping compliments the red stitching found on the dash, handbrake and gear lever. An Alcantara dashboard panel, alloy pedals and unique floor mats can also be found. Designed to deliver 'outstanding lumbar and lateral support' the heated Recaro seats complement the MX-5's driver-focused cabin and communicative controls.

Features on the Sport Recaro model include LED headlights, a leather steering wheel, climate control air-conditioning, rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, smart keyless entry, a premium Bose sound system and cruise control, plus Mazda's MZD-Connect connectivity and infotainment system with 7-inch Colour touch-screen display and Multimedia Commander.

With a dynamic set-up that includes Sports suspension featuring Bilstein dampers, a limited slip differential and strut tower bar, the Sport Recaro MX-5 is the first Limited Edition version of the new model offered in the UK. Its exclusivity is marked out by an individually numbered badge located on the centre storage box lid.

Available to order now, the Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro costs £24,295 OTR.

4x4, News

New Land Rover Discovery models revealed

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Land Rover has unveiled two new Discovery models - the Landmark and the Graphite.

The Discovery Landmark builds on the specification of the HSE Luxury derivative with new interior and exterior features that offer customers a more 'premium and unique' look and feel. The exterior upgrade sees the addition of full length roof rails in a bright finish along with distinctive black front wing vents, grille and mirror caps which complement silver bonnet and tailgate badges. 'Landmark' badging on the side and rear further distinguish this model, while 20-inch 5-split spoke alloy wheels complete the design. The Landmark is available in a limited range of five body colours, including Zanzibar which has been exclusively reserved for the Landmark edition and is not available on any other Discovery.

The enhancements to the interior includes the addition of Windsor Leather seats and the Extended Leather Pack throughout, furnishing the dashboard, door casings and fascia. The interior is purposefully limited to three colourways - Ebony, Almond and Tan. The latter is offered for the first time in a Discovery, with Tan Windsor Leather Seats complemented by Ebony door casings and fascia and a Straight Grained Walnut veneer trim finisher. Customers can opt for either the Grand Black Lacquer or Straight Grained Walnut Wood and Leather steering wheel with two other variants fitted as standard to complement the choice of veneer.

The Discovery Graphite introduces a modern and distinctive look to the model range with 'striking finishes'. A grey Graphite finish to the wing vents and grille, which also sports a gloss black and lighter grey frame, blend with existing grey highlights appointed to the door handles and the Discovery badging to the bonnet and tailgate. Exclusive to the Graphite is the 19-inch 7-split spoke alloy wheel in a high gloss dark grey as standard.

A full 7-seater with stadium seating and over 2,500-litre stowage capacity, the Discovery can be reconfigured with its versatile interior and variable seating. Drive power and all-terrain capability comes from efficient diesel and petrol engine options when matched with fuel-stretching Stop/Start technology and the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0-litre SDV6 remains, delivering 256PS, 36.7mpg and a CO2 figure of 203g/km on a combined cycle.

"The appeal of the Land Rover Discovery has just got even greater. We have launched two new models - the Landmark and Graphite, which offer the customer greater on-road presence and enhanced comfort to complement the Discovery's existing versatility and capability attributes," says Finbar McFall, Jaguar Land Rover Product Marketing Director.

Available to order now, pricing for the Discovery Landmark comes in at £55,995 OTR while the Discovery Graphite costs £47,495 OTR with first deliveries in January 2016.

Saloon, News

Hyundai Genesis brand teases first car

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Hyundai has revealed the first rendering of its new stand-alone brand's debut car - the Genesis G90 luxury saloon.

The 'elegantly designed, technology packed' G90 hints at the recently-launched Genesis brand's design identity and future direction.

Woong-Chul Yang, Head of Hyundai Motor R&D Centre and Vice Chairman of Hyundai Motor, said, "Genesis' new large luxury sedan G90 will deliver a concept of 'New Luxury' to our customers. The G90 sits at the pinnacle of the Genesis brand and demonstrates how we apply our human-centred values to give our customer true satisfaction in every aspect of the vehicle ownership experience."

As the Genesis brand's flagship model, the G90 is a blueprint for change and innovation says Hyundai. Majoring on 'human-centred' technology combined with engaging driving dynamics, G90 features a raft of world-best safety features and technological innovations which Hyundai says will 'set itself apart in the luxury market'.

The G90 also showcases the Genesis brand's design style of 'Athletic Elegance' - interpreted by the newly-formed Prestige Design Division. Crowned by the Genesis emblem, the grand radiator grille 'combined with sophisticated headlamps communicates the car's dynamic, future-orientated character'.

Hyundai created the Genesis brand for a new generation of discerning consumers and will launch six new Genesis models by 2020.

Hypercar, Supercars, News

Lamborghini Huracan updated for 2015

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The Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4 has received a number of updates for 2015.

Focusing on efficiency, drivability and luxury the new updates have already been installed. As standard, both the Huracan coupe and newly-launched Spyder version include cylinder deactivation to improve engine efficiency; the first time this function is included in a naturally aspirated V10 engine. When full engine capacity is not required, five of the ten cylinders are temporarily deactivated by switching off one cylinder bank. When the driver accelerates, the system switches back instantaneously to ten-cylinder mode, while being 'virtually impossible' to detect by the driver, says Lamborghini. This feature reduces fuel consumption and CO2 to 283 g/km.

A fine-tuning of the electronically controlled 4WD system also provides a neutral and 'even more' improved driving behaviour, particularly in STRADA (Road) mode.

The trim colour choice has been significantly enlarged while interior refinements, as standard, now includes extra leather on the door handles and the upper parts of the centre console, while air vents are now painted in an exclusive matt black.

Lamborghini 'Ad Personam' - the brand's customisation program, has also added the availability of interior personalisation, as well as exterior options including heritage colours and matt paints. The options program has been further extended with new options available including Lamborghini's Sensonum audio system. The system delivers 390 Watts RMS, with a ten-channel amplifier and a range of ten loudspeakers in hexagonal-shaped grilles and the Sensonum badge.

Lamborghini's optional sports exhaust system, which can be specified with a style package for high gloss black tailpipes, is now available in all markets worldwide. New LED lighting in the engine compartment can be combined with the optional transparent engine bonnet and carbon fibre engine compartment. Cruise Control can be specified, and a travel pack provides additional storage nets front and rear, an additional 12V lighter and cupholders.

Hatchback, Hybrid, Family Car, News

Toyota confirms new Prius pricing

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The new fourth generation Toyota Prius is available to order now with prices starting at £23,295.

That's for the Prius Active, which is the entry level model in a new grade line-up. Strengthening its appeal for business car drivers, new Business Edition and Business Edition Plus versions have been added.

All Prius models feature LED headlights with Automatic High Beam, electric driver's seat adjustment, Smart Entry with push-button start and the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with touchscreen control and DAB radio reception. A new dual-zone air conditioning system is also standard, equipped with a function that detects whether the front passenger seat is occupied and automatically adjusts air vent opening and air flow accordingly, for more efficient and energy-saving operation.

Higher grade models gain more advanced features, such as a colour head-up display, wireless phone charger, blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, heated front seats and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.

The new Prius also includes the first European appearance of SIPA, Toyota's new Simple Intelligent Park Assist system. As well as providing automatic steering into a parallel or series parking space, the system can also help the driver exit a tight space. An automatic braking system provides a safeguard against colliding with parked vehicles or obstacles.

Key features of Active grade models includes 15-inch alloy wheels, Dual 4.2-inch colour TFT multi-information displays and DAB radio. Prius Business Edition, which costs from £24,195 OTR, features extras including a soft-touch cabin trim, heated front seats and Smart Entry (all doors and boot) while the Business Edition Plus (£25,995 OTR) adds 17-inch alloy wheels, Toyota Touch 2 with Go (satellite navigation and connectivity functions), simple Intelligent Park Assist and front and rear parking sensors.

The range topping new Prius Excel starts at £27,450 OTR and is additionally equipped with leather upholstery, JBL premium audio system, rain-sensing wipers and Toyota 2 with Go Plus (satellite navigation and connectivity with added functions).

Toyota Safety Sense provides an integrated package of safety warning and assistance systems on all versions of new Prius as standard. The new model is available in seven exterior colours, including Hypersonic Red, a new pearlescent shade that offers extra depth and reflective qualities. The interior is available in Cool Grey or Black, with matching trim and cloth upholstery. Leather seats (Excel grade) are in Cool Grey with black shoulder sections, or Black with contrast blue stitching.

The new Toyota Prius is available to order now, with first customer deliveries from 1 March 2016.

Convertible, SUV, News

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

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Land Rover has unveiled the Range Rover Evoque Convertible.

Described as the world's first luxury compact SUV convertible, the new model has been engineered to meet Land Rover's 'rigorous standards', ensuring 'exceptional structural rigidity'.

The Evoque Convertible's exterior design is made possible by a fabric roof shaped to create a 'crisply defined' silhouette that remains faithful to the original design. Its Z-fold mechanism lays flush with the rear bodywork for a sleek, uncluttered appearance when lowered. The fabric roof is the longest and widest currently fitted to any vehicle on sale today.

The fully-automated roof folds in 18 seconds, and can be raised in 21 seconds, at speeds of up to 30mph. When closed, Land Rover says it provides high standards of refinement with a layer of acoustic insulation 'ensuring interior comfort on a par with five-door Evoque'. In addition, the position of the roof doesn't affect loadspace, with 251-litres of boot space. A Roll-Over Protection Device, featuring roll-over bars hidden in the rear bodywork, deploys two aluminium bars within 90-milliseconds in the event of a roll-over situation to protect occupants.

On the inside, a high-res 10.2-inch touchscreen with Jaguar Land Rover's next-generation infotainment system and InControl Touch Pro debuts. Raising the standard of connectivity for the brand, the highly-responsive and super-fast InControl Touch Pro offers smartphone integration, door-to-door navigation, 3G connectivity and a premium sound system.

A choice of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines are available with the 240PS Si4 petrol providing the performance while diesel power comes from Land Rover's 2.0-litre Ingenium engines with fuel economy of up to 55mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 149g/km.

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Design Director and Chief Creative Officer, commented: "Range Rover Evoque Convertible is a vehicle for all seasons. Its uniquely distinctive design and world-class engineering adds another dimension to the Range Rover family, further enhancing its desirability and appeal."

The new Range Rover Evoque Convertible goes on sale from Spring 2016 with prices starting at £47,500 OTR for the TD4 HSE Dynamic derivative.

News, Diesel, Vintage Car

Rolls-Royce chauffeurs stars to MOBO awards

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Rolls-Royce chauffeured some of the biggest names in music to the 2015 MOBO Awards.

Arriving on the red carpet in the ultimate style at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, Winner of Best Male Act and Best Grime Act; Stormzy, producer and performer Naughty Boy, singer songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae and soul singer Lianne Le Havas all stepped out from their bespoke Rolls-Royce Phantoms.

Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain also took the opportunity to arrive in the finest style to the glittering ceremony.

"The MOBOs recognise and celebrate the craft that goes into creating the music that ensures the UK's position as the most vibrant creative centre in the world," said Kanya King MBE, founder of the MOBO Awards. "In the same spirit, a Rolls-Royce affords our stars the ultimate red carpet arrival by expressing the very best in contemporary British design, craftsmanship and style. We were delighted that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars agreed to be our partner for the event."

SUV, News, Hatchback

Renault Clio and Captur upgraded

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Renault has revealed free upgrades for its Clio and Captur models.

DAB radio is now standard equipment on both, fitted with either the MediaNav or R-Link infotainment systems meaning that all, apart from entry level versions, now come with DAB as standard. The newly-redesigned MediaNav gains Bluetooth streaming, TMC traffic information and SIRI "Eyes-Free" for compatible iPhones. The updated R-Link system now has a new, clearer and more sensitive screen, allowing multi-touch gestures such as 'pinch to zoom'.

The Clio Expression+ trim level has been renamed as Clio 'Play' to bring the B-segment supermini into line with its smaller city car sibling, Twingo. Meanwhile, the Dynamique S Nav model gets a new-look leather steering wheel and grey upholstery.

The Clio is available in five trim levels and with a range of two petrol and one diesel efficient engines and is priced from £11,145. The Clio is still available with personalisation options such as the GT Line look pack, coloured 16" and 17" alloy wheels, exterior and interior coloured touch packs. Accessory packs such as the carbon-look Styling Pack, a sporty Spoiler Pack, a Protection Pack to include parking sensors and a Touring Pack with quick-release tow bar are all also still available.

The Captur is available in four trim levels and with a range of two petrol and two diesel engines and is priced from £14,295.

Coupe, Concept Car, News

Modified BMW M4 Coupe revealed at SEMA

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BMW has unveiled a modified BMW M4 Coupe at SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association).

Taking place in Las Vegas, BMW revealed a selection of sports-oriented BMW M Performance Parts at the customisation and sports tuning show. The M4 Coupe's 'motor racing style appearance' has been further enhanced with the M Performance aerodynamic components. The front inserts in high-end carbon fibre (CFRP) and the M Performance front trim grille in high-gloss black give the face of the M4 Coupe an even more striking expression. The lateral M Performance side sill attachments made of polyurethane (PUR) with the new "M Performance" inscription are joined by exterior mirror caps in carbon fibre finish, side gills in high-gloss black and BMW racing stripes for a 'dynamic side view'.

At the rear there is a carbon fibre diffuser with three 'strikingly shaped' bars derived from motorsports and a newly designed BMW M Performance through-flow carbon fibre rear spoiler. The new "M Performance" inscription on the lateral end plates of the rear spoiler as well as the motorsports stripes on the spoiler constitute add further sporty touches.

All M Performance aerodynamic components are harmonised with the car's airflow response, says BMW so they ensure optimised aerodynamic performance. The adjustable M Performance coilover suspension likewise enhances sporty driving pleasure. The lowered suspension 'intensifies' the sporty look of the M4 Coupe as well as a more dynamic ride feel.

The inline 6-cylinder with M TwinPower Turbo Technology remains the same, offering an output of 425hp. Fitted with an M twin-clutch transmission, the exhibition car at SEMA accelerates to 60mph in 4.1 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. A lightweight exhaust system comprises a stainless steel exhaust duct with a rear silencer made entirely of titanium and bearing the "M Performance" inscription. Tailpipe trim elements made of carbon fibre with M logo add another visual highlight.

The SEMA show runs until November 6.

News, Vintage Car

Audi 'prints' replica historical car

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Audi Toolmaking has used a 3D printer to produce a model of the historical 1936 "Auto Union Typ C" Grand Prix car.

The company is now examining further possible applications of metal printers for the production of complex components. "We are pushing forward with new manufacturing technologies at Audi Toolmaking and at the Volkswagen Group," stated Prof. Dr. Hubert Waltl, Audi's Board of Management Member for Production and Head of Toolmaking at the Volkswagen Group. "Together with partners in the area of research, we are constantly exploring the boundaries of new processes. One of our goals is to apply metal printers in series production."

The Volkswagen Group has a total of 14 toolmaking units in nine countries with cooperative ventures arranged for research and development. The first focus of the cooperation is the implementation of metallic 3D printing and 3D printing in the sand-printing method. Audi Toolmaking has now used metal printing to produce all the metallic parts of the Silver Arrow model "Auto Union Typ C" on a scale of 1:2.

For this purpose, a 'selective-sintering' laser melted layers of metallic powder with a grain size of 15 to 40 thousandths of a millimetre, roughly half of the diameter of a human hair. The process therefore allows the production of components with complex geometries, which with conventional methods could either not be produced or only with great difficulties. At present, this process can be used to produce shapes and objects with a length of 240 millimetres and a height of up to 200 millimeters. These printed components achieved a higher density than components made by die casting or hot forming.

Crossover, SUV, News

Volvo adds XC90 performance upgrades

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Volvo is enhancing the performance of the XC90 with a series of Polestar-developed upgrades.

This is the first time that Polestar, Volvo's performance brand, has focused its attention on the new seven-seat SUV. Known as ''Polestar Performance Optimisation', the upgrades improve the power and torque figures of both the D5 diesel and T6 petrol Drive-E engines, particularly at medium revs where it's most effective.

They also make the accelerator responses even quicker, according to Volvo, and alter the settings of the automatic gearbox to provide faster gear changes and prevent gearshifts during rapid cornering, which could unsettle the car. These quicker and more precise responses to driver commands not only make the driving experience more dynamic, they ensure the car responds predictably during high-speed driving.

The maximum output of the D5 Drive-E engine is increased to 233 hp and 500 Nm of torque (up from 225 hp and 470 Nm), while the T6 Drive-E is boosted to 334 hp and 440 Nm (from 320 hp and 400 Nm).

With the Polestar Performance Optimisation, the D4 Drive-E offers 200 hp and 440 Nm (up from 190 hp and 400 Nm), while the output of the T5 Drive-E is raised to 253 hp and 400 Nm (from 245 hp and 350 Nm).

The D4 Drive-E upgrades are available in the S60, V40, V40 Cross Country, V60 and XC60, and the T5 Drive-E enhancements are offered in the V40 and V40 Cross Country.

The price of the D4, D5 (release timing and availability may vary), T5 and T6 Polestar upgrades is £835, including VAT and fitting. The work can be carried out now at any authorised Volvo dealer, and should take about 30 minutes to complete.

Nick Connor, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK, said: "These new Polestar Performance Optimisations make our cars and Drive-E engines even more dynamic and desirable. The combination of increased power and torque - especially at medium revs - and the changes to make the entire drivetrain more responsive ensure that owners will really feel the difference these optimisations make."

Finally, until the end of December 2015, all model-year 2005 to model-year 2015 all-wheel-drive Volvos can be upgraded with the Polestar Performance Optimisation at the discounted price of £620, saving £215.

The Polestar upgrades do not affect the certified emissions and fuel consumption figures, service intervals or Volvo warranty cover.

Saloon, News

Hyundai launches new Genesis luxury brand

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Hyundai has confirmed it will launch an all-new stand-alone luxury brand called Genesis.

The new brand will deliver 'human-centered' luxury through a range of new models that feature the 'highest standards of performance, design and innovation'.

Hyundai says Genesis has been created for a new generation of discerning consumers, and the stand-alone brand will operate alongside the established Hyundai marque. Six new Genesis models will be launched by 2020 with the aim of competing alongside the world's most renowned luxury car brands.

Genesis models will 'embody four key aspects': Human-focused innovation, refined and balanced performance, athletic elegance in design and hassle-free customer experience. The new cars will be badged with a new wing-type emblem, redesigned from the version used on the current Genesis model to create an 'even more luxurious look'.

"We have created this new Genesis brand with a complete focus on our customers who want smart ownership experiences that save time and effort, with practical innovations that enhance satisfaction. The Genesis brand will fulfill these expectations, becoming a market leader through our human-centred brand strategy," said Euisun Chung, Hyundai Motor Company Vice Chairman.

Hyundai also says the new model line-up will distance itself from the traditional technological overload of brand-focused competitors, concentrating instead on a personalised, hassle-free customer experience. Continuing the customer-oriented approach that flows through every Genesis model, sales and service staff will provide 'rapid and attentive' service to customer's requests.

The Genesis brand will also adopt a new alphanumeric naming structure. Future models will be named by combining the letter 'G' for Genesis with a number, 90, 80 or 70 etc., representing the segment.

To develop a distinctive and differentiated design for the new Genesis brand vehicles, Hyundai Motor has created a Prestige Design Division. From mid-2016 Luc Donckerwolke, who was previously responsible for the design of Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, SEAT and Skoda models at the Volkswagen Group, will lead this new division alongside his role as Head of the Hyundai Motor Design Center. The work of the new Prestige Design Division will be overseen by Peter Schreyer, as part of his group-wide design responsibilities as President and Chief Design Officer (CDO) of Hyundai Motor Group.

Peter Schreyer commented, "In creating the design signature of Genesis brand cars, we set out to display confidence and originality, creating highly desirable products that present new charm through innovative styling and proportions."

The name 'Genesis', which also means new beginnings, hints at the new values and standards that the brand will bring to the global luxury car market. Initially on sale in the Korean, Chinese, North American and Middle Eastern luxury car markets, the Genesis brand will expand its reach to Europe and other parts of Asia as the model range grows to full strength.

Convertible, Sports Car, News

Mazda MX-5 concepts revealed at SEMA

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Mazda has pulled the covers off two MX-5 concepts at the The Specialty Equipment Market Association show (SEMA).

The two concepts, the MX-5 Spyder and MX-5 Speedster have shaved off more weight while accentuating open-air driving.

The MX-5 Spyder features a 'bikini top', Mercury Silver exterior, carbon fibre aero kit, grille intake, lightweight 17-inch Yokohama ADVAN Racing RS II wheels and a Spinneybeck PRIMA natural full-grain leather interior. The MX-5 Speedster, meanwhile, pares the roadster back to the bare essentials - it even has a deflector in place of the windscreen. With carbon fibre doors and seats as well as custom 16-inch RAYS 57 Extreme Gram Lights wheels resultsin the Speedster tipping the scales at 943kg. It is also 30mm lower than the production MX-5 thanks to an adjustable coilover suspension. Both are powered by Mazda's SKYACTIV-G 2.0 DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with VVT.

"Both MX-5 Spyder and MX-5 Speedster are uncompromising designs that highlight the core strengths of MX-5," said Ken Saward, design manager at Mazda North American Operations. He and his colleagues at Mazda collaborated with various aftermarket parts suppliers and performance shops to create the two concepts. "With the all-new 2016 MX-5, we have a clean sheet to show how the aftermarket can go wild on our flagship sports car while staying true to its mission."

The SEMA Show in Las Vegas runs until the 6th November.