News

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.

Hatchback, News

MINI confirms new Cooper Clubman pricing

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MINI has confirmed pricing for the new Cooper Clubman will start from £19,995 OTR.

That's for the entry level model which features a 'generous standard' of specification including 16" Revolite Spoke alloy wheels, MINI Navigation, Bluetooth handsfree, interior lights pack, central display with LED ring, the MINI Excitement pack and start/stop with keyless start.

The Cooper D is powered by MINI's 2.0-litre diesel engine and starts from £22,265 OTR.

The MINI Cooper S Clubman adds 17" Vent Spoke alloy wheels, twin exhausts, sports seats for the driver and front passenger and Performance Control from £22,755, while the Cooper SD benefits from 400 Nm of torque for a 0-62mph time of 7.4 seconds and CO2 emissions of 119 g/km, and is priced from £24,255 OTR.

New to MINI is an 8-speed Steptronic transmission, available as an option on the MINI Cooper S Clubman, the MINI Cooper D Clubman and the MINI Cooper SD Clubman. Numerous features make their MINI debut on the new Clubman, including an electric parking brake, full electric seat adjustment and the optional MINI Yours Interior Styles with backlit door bezels.

The new MINI Clubman includes MINI's Navigation System as standard on all models, while every MINI Clubman also benefits from the MINI Excitement Package as standard, which features a projection of the brand logo on to the ground beneath the driver's side door mirror when the car is opened and closed, as well as extended interior lighting.

The new MINI Cooper Clubman is on sale now.

News, SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

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Mercedes has revealed its revised GL-Class - with the newly named GLS.

Described as 'the only full-fledged seven-seater' in the European premium SUV segment, the new model features 'ample spaciousness and combines luxury with impressive levels of comfort, agile dynamics and also best-in-class safety'.

Mercedes says the facelift focused on redesigning the front end, while the rear has also been modernised primarily in the area of the bumper and tail lights. Chrome-look details such as the roof rails, underguard, shoulderline trim strips, luggage compartment handle and side skirt trim are joined by front and rear aprons and side running boards on the AMG model.

Highlights on the inside includes the newly designed instrument panel with semi-integrated Media Display, a new 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel, a modified centre console with touchpad and also the new appointment colours and trim elements.

Compared with its predecessor, the new generation features improved efficiency, extended DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the air suspension system AIRMATIC with enhanced damping system ADS, 'state-of-the-art' assistance systems as well as internet access.

All of the engines provide better performance, says Mercedes with reduced consumption values in some cases. The GLS 500 4MATIC with V8 biturbo engine featuring direct injection now generates 455 hp - 20 hp more than the preceding model, and at a maximum torque of 700 Nm combines 'outstanding performance with the high level of motoring comfort of these engines'. The V6 biturbo engine, also featuring direct injection, is used in the GLS 400 4MATIC, producing an output of 333 hp and 480 Nm of torque from 1600 rpm.

The top-of-the-range Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC now has over 28 hp more output, at 585 hp, than its predecessor. The peak torque of 760 Nm is now available from 1750 rpm. Despite a 'significant increase' in performance, the consumption remains unchanged.

Alongside the petrol engines, in the GLS 350 d 4MATIC there is the choice of the V6 diesel engine while, from launch, all versions will feature the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard (except the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63), optionally in combination with low-range gearbox and centre differential lock.

More power, more dynamism and more equipment are also offered by the new Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4MATIC. With a peak output of 585 hp, independent suspension and the revised AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission, it also includes the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, which provide optimum flexibility, and the rear-biased AMG Performance all-wheel drive. The GLS 63 4MATIC has an updated design, featuring the AMG brand look and a high-quality interior, and runs on 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels.

The GLS will be available to order in Europe from November 2015 with deliveries starting from March 2016. UK pricing has yet to be confirmed.

Crossover, SUV, News

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

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Nissan has revealed a full size Origami Juke, celebrating 5 years of the model.

British paper artist Owen Gildersleeve collaborated with Nissan on the unique project in a nod to Nissan's Japanese heritage. Gildersleeve hand built the intricate replica model from paper to the exact dimensions of the current Juke, taking over 200 hours and folding more than 2,000 pieces of paper to create the detailed sculpture.

The Origami Juke features the same design cues - such as the wheel arches, lights and grille - that give the real-life model its distinctive character.

Artist Owen Gildersleeve said: "This was a great project to work on - hard work but very rewarding. As a celebration piece it draws on so many influences, such as the origami focus inspired by Nissan's Japanese roots. Using so many individual pieces of paper to create the overall structure also represents the thousands of people who helped bring the Nissan Juke into reality and the thousands who continue to do so right here in the UK."

The Juke, which is built in Nissan's plant in Sunderland, reaches its fifth birthday this year. Since first deliveries began in October 2010, more than 150,000 Juke models have been sold in the UK, with over 700,000 total sales across Europe.

Darryl Scriven, Design Manager at Nissan's Design Centre for Europe, said: "The first step of any car design involves putting pencil to paper. From that simple start, it's a complex journey to production involving hundreds of skilled people, thousands of man-hours and millions in investment. So we think it's very apt that on its fifth birthday, we celebrate the Nissan Juke with a tribute that harks back to that simple, but bold, first step, all carried out with Nissan's signature innovation and excitement of course."

The Origami Juke is revealed as 'World Origami Days' are celebrated across the world between 24th October and 11th November.

News

Maserati window display in Liberty London

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Maserati has joined forces with iconic London department store Liberty for an interactive window display.

The Italian car maker and the department store have also helped launch fashion charity LDNY's new 'Legacy' collection.

The unique and interactive window display at the Regent Street store features three examples from the Legacy collection alongside cutting-edge technology from 'Those' - a London-based digital design works - with their digital drawing system 'The Woodpecker'.

The Woodpecker is a drawing robot that sketches images of Maserati cars, as well as images from the Legacy Collection and Liberty's famous Tudor-style shop-front onto the glass window live in front of London shoppers. The Woodpecker also invites members of the public to be a part of the window display by writing tweets using the hashtag #LibertyxMaserati onto the glass.

A VIP event was hosted at Liberty earlier in the week to celebrate the charity fashion collection and officially launch the window display. Guests from the worlds of fashion and enterprise were joined by the likes of English fashion designer Ozwald Boateng, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council Caroline Rush and Hip-hop artist Eve Jeffers at the 140 year-old London department store. A fleet of Maserati Quattroportes lined Great Marlborough Street where the store's main entrance is located.

The Legacy Collection is an ethical, luxury fashion project by the LDNY Foundation which promotes female designers from around the world. The LDNY Foundation is a partnership between London College of Fashion (LCF) and Parson's School in New York. Students from both universities entered designs by artisans inspired by nations such as Ethiopia, India, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea and Peru into a competition.

Peter Denton, Region Manager, Maserati North Europe said, "LDNY is a charity Maserati has been supporting since early 2015 when the first designs were showcased at Goldsmiths College. We're delighted to see the final Legacy Collection in the window at Liberty, which is such an iconic fashion venue in London. Maserati has always been known for being a pioneer of style and design in the automotive world, so it's an honour to champion new fashion innovators here in London."

Sports Car, News

Two Mazda MX-5 Concepts set for SEMA show

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Mazda has confirmed two vastly different takes on the fourth-generation MX-5 will be revealed at the 2015 SEMA Show.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association show takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Centre, for which the Mazda designers wanted to see what they could do if the MX-5 was 'taken to the extreme'. The result was an MX-5 Spyder Concept and a MX-5 Speedster Concept.

The MX-5 Spyder captures the character of a vintage roadster and translates it into a modern-day design, including bespoke leather interior details and is finished in a new Mercury Silver concept paint colour.

The MX-5 Speedster is described as a 'study in the extremes of lightweight, purpose-built performance', paying homage to minimalist roadsters of the 1950s. The Blue Ether-painted MX-5 Speedster is uncompromised in its approach to wind-in-the-hair driving, deliberately avoiding the use of a traditional windshield for a lighter deflector.

Both cars are significantly lighter than the 1057kg MX-5 roadster.

The SEMA Show takes place from 3-6 of November.

News, Crossover

Precautionary recall for Porsche Macan S and Turbo

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Porsche is conducting an examination of 1,198 UK models of the Macan S and Macan Turbo.

The precautionary recall, some 58,881 models worldwide, comes as a possible leak in the low-pressure fuel line inside the engine compartment were discovered. The line will be replaced in the workshop - a purely as a precautionary measure. Only petrol engines are affected.

The problem was identified after a precise examination of complaints and then 'immediately rectified' in ongoing production, says Porsche. Owners of the vehicles will be contacted directly by their local dealership with workshop appointments to be arranged as quickly as possible.

The work will take roughly one hour and will be carried out free of charge.

News

Warranty Direct creates Halloween horror car

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As October 31 approaches, Warranty Direct has revealed its Halloween horror car.

Using data from its Reliability Index (www.reliabilityindex.com) the 'horrific car' would give its owners nightmares all year round. Warranty Direct analysed data from 50,000 live policies, using failure rates to determine which parts should be bolted on to the ultimate horror vehicle. The vehicle, known as 'H-0WL3R' breaks down every other month and regularly feasts on the contents of its owner's bank account, costing an average of £487 to repair.

Sitting on the Mazda 5's axle and suspension system, the Horrific H-0WL3R would most likely spend much of its time coming to grief over Britain's poor quality road surfaces, breaking in the process, as the suspension inflicts problems on almost three quarters of Mazda 5s.

Power comes from a motor torn from under the bonnet of a Mitsubishi Outlander. This engine will be to blame for almost half of the many failed starts with some 48.3 per cent blighted by such issues. Stopping the Frankenstein of a car could be a problem too as the Mazda MX-5 donates its braking system to the H-0WL3R. Although the car experiences most problems as infrequently as Halloween itself, in almost 50 per cent of these instances, the issue is related to the brakes.

Adding to this engineering monstrosity is the Chevrolet Tacuma. For drivers of H-0WL3R, turning corners and swapping cogs will most likely be an unpleasant experience thanks to a steering system and gearbox which have both been proven to plague 33 per cent of Tacumas with reliability woes. The complex electrics of a Lexus GS will cause regular headaches with a 67 per cent failure rate, while the wheezing air conditioning system of a Honda CR-V is likely to bring unpredictable temperatures and a lamentable failure rate of 18.4 per cent.

David Gerrans, Managing Director of Warranty Direct commented, "This Halloween vehicle is the culmination of motorists' nightmares, guaranteeing inconvenient and expensive breakdowns if it was ever to be built. Thankfully it is fictional and can't be found on the market, nonetheless, it does highlight the Achilles heel of different vehicles, some of which are generally reliable, but could cause a fright as a result of a rogue component."

Electric, Sports Car, News

First Detroit Electric SP:01 leaves factory

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The first Detroit Electric sports car has rolled off the production line.

The SP:01 is described as the 'lightest and fastest two-seat pure-electric sports car in the world', and is manufactured in Leamington Spa.

The lightweight SP:01, which goes on sale in Asia and Europe over the coming weeks, combines a carbon fibre body with an aluminium chassis and features a 0-60mph time of 3.7 seconds, with the 6-speed manual, and a top speed of 155mph.

Powered by a 285HP / 210kW electric motor, the car is fitted with a single-speed automatic transmission as standard, with the option of twin-speed automatic or the 6-speed manual transmissions.

Albert Lam, Chairman and Group CEO of Detroit Electric commented: "We are thrilled to see our first production car roll off the line at our UK manufacturing site. Our first customer is sure to appreciate the unique experience of driving the SP:01 as we've worked hard to develop technologies that ensure it is one of the most rewarding pure electric sports cars to drive.

"Seeing our vision realised is hugely satisfying and we can now focus on fulfilling a growing bank of orders. As our production process builds momentum, we look forward to providing this unique electric sports car to our customers all over the world," he added.

Detroit Electric describes the battery as the most 'energy-dense automotive battery pack in the world', offering over 140Wh/kg and comes with built-in bi-directional charge and discharge capability. Made possible via the Detroit Electric home charging and power back-up unit - named '360-Powerback' - the unit turns the vehicle into a power source for both the grid and the home.

Pricing for the Detroit Electric SP:01 will be announced shortly.

Sports Car, News

Yamaha reveals new sports car in Tokyo

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Yamaha has unveiled a new sports car concept at the Tokyo Motor Show.

Called the Sports Ride Concept, Yamaha has released few details about the new car but has labeled it a 'Special exhibit/Experimental vehicle'.

The concept employs the iStream design process for the car's underpinnings, developed by McLaren F1 designer Gordon Murray Design Limited, to produce a lightweight, high-rigidity vehicle structures rooted in Formula One technology.

This design concept takes a 'uniquely Yamaha' approach by putting the 'involved and active' feeling of riding a motorcycle, or "Live and Ride" into a vehicle with quintessential sports car proportions for a driver-machine relationship close in feeling to the world of motorcycle riding.

Yamaha says it devoted much attention to the high-quality details and was inspired by the artistic style of 'Elementarism' when designing the concept.

No word yet on whether the 2-seater will go into production.

Crossover, News

Suzuki unveils Mighty Deck in Tokyo

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Suzuki has debuted a new concept - the Mighty Deck - at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show.

The Mighty Deck, which does seem to resemble a mighty duck, offers 'new kinds' of fun in the minicar segment according to the Japanese manufacturer.

The theme for the Suzuki's stand is "SUZUKI NEXT 100" as the brand will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2020. The exhibits represent proposals for products and technologies that give a sense of the company's preparations for ongoing success in the next 100 years, with a range of concept models will show how Suzuki can deliver 'wonder and enjoyment to drivers and riders'.

The Mighty Deck is described as a fun-oriented minicar with a canvas top for an open load deck that can be repositioned for diverse purposes, adding extra utility. The deck opens and closes automatically.

Suzuki says the "urban/outdoor" concept is embodied by features that 'free people to move between contrasting situations and mind sets: city and nature; home and away; work and leisure or relaxed and playful'.

Hatchback, News

Subaru debuts new Impreza 5-Door Concept

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Subaru has given a world premiere to its Impreza 5-Door Concept.

Revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show, the concept achieves a higher level of aerodynamic performance 'while blending form with function' resulting in modern styling, which hints at how future versions of the car will look.

The design study has a wide and low stance, hinting at the car's innate stability, while the hexagonal grille develops Subaru's visual identity further. The front combination lamps display a 'bold reinterpretation' of Subaru's "hawk-eye" headlights.

The Impreza 5-door Concept boasts a dynamic look and stance, a result of strong, clean character lines extending from the front wheel arch to the rear shoulders as well as offering all the functionality 'essential to Subaru and its customers'. The front and rear combination lights have been designed to 'express a powerful, modern look', with the taut lines and compact silhouette of the car further enhancing the concept's sportiness and stability, says Subaru.

The design not only hints at the styling of the next-generation Impreza but Subaru's future models as a whole.

Saloon, Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car, News

Honda reveals new Clarity FCV

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Honda has unveiled its next generation Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show.

The new car is described by Honda as the world's first production fuel cell powered saloon car to house the entire fuel cell stack and drivetrain system in the space normally occupied by a normal engine and transmission.

Honda says new car seats five adults comfortably, helped by reducing the size of the fuel cell stack and the power generation unit to the size of a comparable V6 engine. The onboard fuel cells now feature a higher output and a more slender shape, with each cell helping make the fuel cell stack 33 per cent more compact than that used in the original FCX Clarity. This improvement has been achieved in parallel with an increase in maximum output to 177ps and a power density increased by 60 per cent.

The Clarity Fuel Cell includes a high-pressure tank capable of storing more hydrogen gas, therefore extending the range of the vehicle to 435 miles on a single tank. In addition, the tank can be refilled in approximately three minutes.

Due to the continuously increasing torque provided by the high-output 130 kW motor, with no need for gears, the Clarity achieves perfectly smooth acceleration anywhere from zero to maximum speed. The FCV include two driving modes: 'Normal' which provides a balance between fuel economy and driving performance, and 'Sport' which prioritises a more responsive acceleration feeling.

The exterior has been designed to give an 'imposing presence on the road' while maintaining a strong aerodynamic profile. Full-LED headlights with a sharp, slender profile and 18-inch aluminium wheels with an aerodynamic design complete the look.

The interior features an advanced driver interface with Honda's instant recognition and intuitive control, as well as premium, 'comforting' materials.

In the UK, Honda has worked with suppliers to encourage the local production and consumption of energy by establishing a solar-powered hydrogen refuelling station in the grounds of Honda UK Manufacturing, in Swindon. This station is open to the public (subject to registration) and able to refuel any fuel cell vehicle.

The Clarity Fuel Cell will be commercially available in Japan from early 2016. Further information on the European launch of the vehicle will follow in 2016.

Sports Car, News

Mazda unveils RX-Vision at the Tokyo Motor Show

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Mazda has pulled the covers off a new rotary-engined RX-Vision sports car in Tokyo.

Powered by Mazda's next-generation SKYACTIV-R rotary engine, this technology allows for what Mazda calls an 'exquisitely proportioned' front-engine, rear-wheel drive car. Rotary engines are unique in that they generate power through the rotational motion of triangular rotors (unlike pistons in conventional engines). Overcoming numerous technical difficulties, Mazda succeeded in commercialising rotary power, first in the Cosmo Sport 110S in 1967 and then in several other models.

Although not currently mass-producing any rotary models, Mazda says it never ceased its R&D activities, choosing the SKYACTIV-R label for the next-generation rotary engine.

"I look forward to talking with you more about this vision we revealed here today at the Mazda stand," said Mazda's Representative Director, President and CEO Masamichi Kogai. "Mazda will continue to take on new challenges in an effort to build a special bond with our customers and become their one and only brand."

Further details have yet to be announced.

Sports Car, News

Porsche Macan GTS revealed

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Porsche has added a new Macan GTS to its range.

Featuring a re-engineered chassis, 20 hp more power and uprated brakes, the dynamic GTS includes attributes 'keen drivers' will appreciate, says Porsche. The 360 hp petrol engine with 500 Nm of pulling power places the GTS between the Macan S and the Macan Turbo in the range line-up. The technical basis for this is the 3.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V6 of the Macan S, mated to the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) seven-speed transmission and Porsche Traction Management (PTM) with variable power distribution to all four wheels. A sports exhaust system gives an 'aural clue' to the tuned engine under the bonnet.

A more sporty set-up has been applied to the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which also offers a 15mm lowered ride height. The 20-inch diameter RS Spyder design alloy wheels finished in matt black paint complete the dynamic focus of the GTS. The wider tyres on the rear axle are a unique feature of the Macan chassis, and also provide a 'purposeful stance' to the new model. Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes 5.2 secs - or 5.0 secs with the optional Sport Chrono package - while top speed is 160 mph. This is balanced by fuel economy of up to 31.4 mpg Combined and CO2 emissions of 212 g/km.

The GTS Macan can also be recognised at first glance by exterior accents in black - in high gloss above the waistline and in a lustrous matt finish in the lower areas of the body. This is further enhanced by a special version of the Sport Design styling package in GTS-specific colouring.

On the inside, 'GTS' sport seats with Alcantara centre panels is joined by the new Porsche Communication Management with a touch-screen monitor, extended functionality and increased operating comfort, first seen in the next generation 911.

Prices for the new Porsche Macan GTS start at £55,188 OTR, and goes on sale 28 October, 2015.