Freelander 1 becomes Land Rover Heritage vehicle

Produced from 1997 to 2006, the Land Rover Freelander 1 is now officially a Land Rover Heritage vehicle. 

A Heritage model is defined as a product that has been out of production for longer than 10 years so Freelander 1 owners will now be supported by the brand’s Heritage experts to ensure they can continue to enjoy their vehicles for many years to come.

Land Rover Heritage specialises in cars, services, parts and experiences for classic Land Rover models and the Freelander 1 becomes the brand’s eighth Heritage model, joining the Series I, II and III, Range Rover Classic and P38 Range Rover plus Discovery 1 and 2.

Over 9,000 individual Land Rover Heritage Part numbers are available for the Freelander 1, adding to the brand’s parts catalogue, which already features over 33,000 items for both Jaguar and Land Rover Heritage vehicles.

Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Heritage, said: “With the addition of the Freelander 1 as a Heritage model, Land Rover is reaffirming its support and commitment to its loyal customers by providing exceptional cars, services, parts and experiences for models more than 10 years out of production. Genuine Land Rover Heritage Parts for Freelander 1 have been engineered and tested in extreme conditions. As such it gives our customers total peace-of-mind that their vehicles are maintained to the highest possible standards.”

The Freelander became Europe’s best-selling 4WD vehicle for five consecutive years after its launch in 1997 and at the time had 16 patented features including Hill Decent Control (HDC), Immediate Reduction Drive (IDR), a viscous-coupling (VCU) and an innovative ABS system designed specifically for off-road situations.

Revell Ford GT snap kits up for grabs at Detroit

Ford GT snap kits will be available to purchase through online stores and retailers starting in April

Kids can get their very first Ford GT when they stop by the Ford stand at the Detroit Auto Show in January. 

Ford is giving away Revell-built Ford GT model snap kits and will introduce a retail line in April. 

The auto show kit includes 14 pieces for easy assembly in just a few minutes, and will feature a unique auto show stamp on the bottom to signify the special edition. The retail model is more detailed; it has 28 pieces, takes 10 to 15 minutes to build, and will be widely available to purchase for $14.99.

“Our annual Revell Make ‘n Take model kit program has become a fun-filled auto show tradition,” said Mark Bentley, Ford Licensing manager. “Letting kids build their own Ford GT is a great way to introduce them to the Ford brand and create new enthusiasts.”

Ford has worked with Illinois-based Revell to build snap kits for motor shows and for retail sale since 2013. The licensing agreement started with Mustang, followed by a Raptor version. 

“We’ve always enjoyed building Ford products,” said Brian Eble, Revell’s Vice President of Marketing. “Ford’s iconic designs make them a great brand to replicate. From first time model builders to master builders; Ford products continue to be one of the most sought after subject matter for scale plastic model kits.”

Audi’s growth plans include all-new Q2 model

Audi bosses have announced growth plans for the brand in 2016, including the launch of a Q5 replacement as well as a new Q2 model.

The carmaker intends to invest more than 3 billion EURO over the coming financial year with half the expenditure earmarked for the German sites in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm.

“We are continuing with our high levels of investment in future technologies to enhance the strong position of our brand,” said Audi CEO Rupert Stadler. 

The introduction of the Q2 will see Audi enter a new market segment. The ‘Q’ naming convention is reserved for SUVs but the use of the even number ‘2’ could suggest something slightly different to a straightforward compact crossover. 

In addition, Audi will present the successor to the Q5 SUV in 2016, followed in 2018 by the launch of the its first large‑series battery‑electric vehicle, based on the Audi e-tron Quattro concept. 

“A significant proportion of our investment is naturally in the field of alternative drive systems,” stated Stadler. 

Audi is continuing to push forward in the field of ‘digitalisation’, following its acquisition in December of a one‑third interest in HERE, a leading provider of digital maps and location-based services, at a cost of 0.85 billion EURO. 

In order to maintain its reputation for “Vorsprung durch Technik”, Audi plans strengthen its workforce in 2016 with specialists in alternative drive systems and lightweight construction, as well as IT specialists.

By 2020, Audi plans to expand its model range to include 60 different vehicles.

X-Men inspired Kia Sportage created ahead of Apocalypse

Kia is to unveil a special, one-off X-Men-inspired Sportage as part of its ongoing collaboration with Twentieth Century Fox and the X-Men movie franchise. 

The 2nd generation Kia X-Car has been created to promote the new X-Men: Apocalypse film and Kia’s sponsorship of the Australian Open 2016 tennis championship.

Inspired by X-Men character Mystique, the 2nd generation Kia X-Car mimics the appearance and powers of the famous shape-shifter. X-Men fans are invited to watch the X-Car shape-shift in a special on-line video starring Kia’s ‘superhuman’ global brand ambassador Rafael Nadal by visiting https://www.allaboutsportage.com/ from 4 January, 2016. 

The Sportage, driven by Nadal in his efforts to take on the X-Men’s arch-villain Apocalypse, transforms from its standard state into custom-designed bodywork with a special textured matte and gloss blue paint finish, racing wheels and tyres along with red and yellow bodywork highlights.

Ahead of the X-Men: Apocalypse’s global release in cinemas in May 2016, the brand will take the covers off the new car before the start of the Australian Open in January in Melbourne, where it will remain on public display throughout the tournament (18-31 January) before making appearances at various international motor shows and fan events in the run up to the film’s premiere.

The Sportage-based Kia X-Car is the company’s second show car project in collaboration with Fox, following the Wolverine-inspired Sorento that was shown at the Australian Open 2015 earlier this year. 

The all-new Kia Sportage was revealed earlier this year, featuring an all-new exterior design, a host of advanced new technologies and enhanced quality. It is set to go on sale in early 2016.

Rinspeed to debut self-driving Etos at CES

For the first time ever, Rinspeed is to debut a concept car outside of its Swiss homeland, choosing the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas for the world premiere of its new autonomous Etos.

Rinspeed owner, Frank M. Rinderknecht, says: “The digital world will provide the major and above all the disruptive innovations in automotive engineering. That is why nowadays all major car manufacturers and suppliers are present at the CES Consumer Electronics Show.” 

Based on BMW i8 underpinnings with design by the specialist team at 4erC, the Etos is described as a sustainable but also a fast racer.

The coupe bodywork utilises lightweight materials with an aluminum front structure bonded to a carbon fibre passenger cell, topped off with smartphone-style Gorilla glass for the roof.

The Etos is fitted with an on-board drone complete with landing platform in the rear (also made with Gorilla glass), fitted with 12,000 individually controlled LEDs which can transform it into an electronic message board or a visual dancefloor. 

The drone itself can provide some very useful services, says Rinspeed, like picking up a bouquet of flowers ordered on the way home or shooting a selfie of your drive and streaming it live to your friends. 

The technical highlight in the interior is the folding and retracting steering wheel from ZF TRW, which disappears into the dashboard in a few seconds, creating lots of space in front of the driver who can then read a book in comfort or work in a more relaxed atmosphere. 

An intelligent infotainment experience, provided by Harman Connected Car technologies, gets to know the appointments, wishes and needs of the occupants and then proactively offers up tailored selection options accordingly.

This reduces the number of manual entries required but when necessary, the system responds to voice commands, gestures, touch input, controller or the push of a button. 

A total of eight HD exterior cameras provide 180-degree panoramic views in front of the vehicle and behind, acting as virtual exterior mirrors with an expanded field of vision and no blind spots. 

The Rinspeed Etos will make its global debut at the CES, from 5-8 January, 2016, as part of the HARMAN event in the Muse Hall of the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas.

Its European premiere will follow at the Geneva Motor Show in March. 

Audi to present latest tech at CES

Audi set to attend world's largest electronics trade show for the sixth time

Audi is set to present its latest technologies and models at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next month. 

Once again, the press conference on the first day of the show will be followed by the Audi Tech Talk, at which technology experts will be available to answer questions.

At the press conference, Ricky Hudi, Head of Development Electrics/Electronics, and Scott Keogh, President of Audi of America, will address the latest trends, technologies and products in the areas of infotainment and Audi connect, controls and displays as well as electrification and lighting technology. 

With a concept car and numerous technology exhibits, Audi says it will be offering an outlook on the automotive future, which will be influenced more than ever by the electronics field.

At the Audi Tech Talk, which is open to the public, technology experts will offer an in-depth look at electronics development and will be available to answer questions from journalists and show visitors.

The world’s largest electronics trade show is highly significant for Audi. In 2011, it was the first carmaker to make an appearance at CES with its own exhibit space.

CES is being held in Las Vegas from 6-8 January, 2016.

Jannarelly reveals retro-styled sportscar

New Jannarelly car brand is centred on automotive emotions

All-new car brand, Jannarelly, is set to launch early next year with its first model, the Design-1 - a track-ready sportscar with a distinctly retro look.

Designer, Anthony Jannarelly, and Frederic Juillot, owner of Equation Composite, a company specialised in carbon fibre parts, have combined their skills and experience to create the all-new high-performance, customisable lightweight sportscar.

The Dubai-based Frenchmen own a Caterham and a Donkervoort respectively, and describe themselves as great admirers of ‘classic car design with timeless lines as well as the essence of the 60’s motoring era’. 

They began with a straightforward concept: A really simple and mechanical car with state-of-the-art components that can be customised until it reflects its owner.

The Jannarelly Design-1 is a rear wheel drive 2-seater roadster with a steel tubular frame and structural aluminium panels for the chassis. It is fitted with a mid-rear V6 DOHC 24-valve engine. Most of the body is made out of fibreglass and carbon fibre.

The Jannarelly brand is said to centred on automotive emotions, self-expression and creativity. Its whole purpose is to allow a great freedom in self-customisation and pure performance. The first model draws inspiration from the universe of Petrolicious, Jay Leno's garage and Magnus Walker. 

Jannarelly says that both the Design-1’s lines and its simple and flexible mechanical approach pay tribute to the 1960s, ‘the golden age of the sports car, when design and technology were in perfect sync, generating organic, feminine lines, naturally modelled.’

The first prototype is set for completion in early February and deliveries of a first series of 30 cars are expected to begin in the summer of 2016.

2016 upgrades for VW Polo, Golf and Passat

Volkswagen has announced trim upgrades across its Polo, Golf and Passat ranges for 2016.

The Polo Match replaces the SE trim. It’s available in three- and five-door bodystyles and with a range of engine and transmission options, adding more than £900-worth of extra equipment.

Among the new standard-fit features are cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, front fog lights with static cornering function, tinted rear windows and new 15-inch Stratford alloy wheels.  

A price rise of £100, means the Polo Match is available to order now from £12,735 on the road (OTR).

The Volkswagen Golf, now in its seventh generation, will get two new versions – the GT Edition and R-Line Edition. 

Priced at £23,915 OTR, the GT Edition costs £300 more than the GT it replaces, but gains an extra £1,795 worth of equipment including 18-inch Durban alloy wheels, and a panoramic sunroof. 

Meanwhile, the new Golf R-Line Edition replaces the R-Line trim and, for an increase of £250 OTR, adds £1,730-worth of equipment including larger 18-inch Serron alloys wheels and a panoramic sunroof.  

The Golf R-Line Edition will be available to order from £24,860 OTR and, as with the new GT Edition, is set to arrive in Volkswagen UK showrooms early in 2016.

An enhanced version of the Passat SE Business trim level is designed to add more style and value to both the saloon and estate variants, with standard features such as Discover Navigation, front fog lights, electric folding door mirrors and tinted rear windows– together amounting to £555 of value – for £100 OTR more than the SE model, which is being removed from the range.

New versions of the Polo, Golf, and Passat Saloon and Estate are available to order from Volkswagen UK Retailers now, with deliveries set to begin early in the New Year.

Lamborghini confirms track driving courses for 2016

Automobili Lamborghini has announced details of its programmeme of Esperienza and Accademia track driving courses for 2016, with locations in Europe, America, Asia and Australia.

The 2016 season will get under way in Europe, with the Winter Accademia on the evocative icy surface of Livigno, Italy, to be held in late February. Hot on its heels, the famous resort of Aspen, Colorado, is the venue for the American event.

Following the winter dates, the Phillip Island circuit hosts the first Accademia course in Australia. After the first leg at Italy’s Imola circuit, the Accademia will follow some important European rounds of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo one-make series, including the historic Nurburgring circuit, and Valencia, which is also the location for the race series’ world finals.

In the United States the Accademia will be held at the Laguna Seca circuit, while Las Vegas is the setting for the second edition of the Pilota Lamborghini course, dedicated to competitive racing.

The 2016 Lamborghini Esperienza calendar will also take in four continents, with more than twenty dates scheduled at some of the most prestigious circuits in Europe, the United States, Asia and Australia.

Lamborghini Esperienza is the first step for those who wish to get closer to the world of Lamborghini, providing an introduction to the Raging Bull brand and its legendary super sports cars. For the Imola Esperienza, activities include a visit to the Lamborghini factory and museum in Sant’Agata Bolognese (Bologna), as well as the track driving.

The Lamborghini Accademia offers fans the chance to drive on the track (Track Accademia) or on ice (Winter Accademia). Each Accademia offers two types of programme – intensive and advanced – giving the participants the opportunity to take their first steps towards the world of competitive racing. 

The course involves multiple training sessions during which drivers undertake various exercises including slaloms, acceleration, braking and oversteering.

Each track day is open to a maximum of 24 participants on the intensive course, and 20 on the advanced course. Drivers are divided into small groups to make the experience highly exclusive and personalised.

The most advanced stage of the Accademia course is the Pilota Lamborghini course, the first edition of which was held in November at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. This new programme is for those with the desire to become a racing driver, through a series of tests which simulate a full-on competitive race weekend.

Over 2,000 attendees are expected at the Esperienza and Accademia courses during 2016. All participants will be able to put themselves to the test and perfect their driving aboard the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4, the V12 benchmark for luxury super sports cars, and the Lamborghini Huracan, in the Coupé, Spyder and 2WD versions.

The Esperienza and Accademia courses are part of the Lamborghini Squadra Corse programme, which since 2013 has offered an integrated approach to Lamborghini driving experiences, right through to the world of competitive racing with the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo and GT3.

Like this year, in 2016 Lamborghini Squadra Corse will also select drivers from the Young Drivers and GT3 Junior Programme to participate as instructors at the Esperienza and Accademia events around the world.

Toyota to preview new mapping technology at CES

Toyota’s new high-precision map generation system to support the safe implementation of automated driving, is set to go on display at CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in January.

The new system will use data from on-board cameras and GPS devices installed in production vehicles. Road images and vehicle positional information is sent to data centres, where it is automatically pieced together, corrected and updated to generate high precision road maps that cover a wide area.

An understanding of road layouts and traffic rules (including speed limits and various road signs) is essential for the successful implementation of automated driving technologies. Additionally, high precision measurement of positional information requires the collection of information on dividing lines, kerbs, and other road characteristics.

Until now, map data for automated driving purposes has been generated using specially-built vehicles equipped with three-dimensional laser scanners. These vehicles are driven through urban areas and on highways, and data is collected and manually edited to incorporate information such as dividing lines and road signs. Due to the infrequent nature of data collection, maps generated in this manner are seldom updated, limiting their usefulness and they are also relatively costly to maintain. 

Toyota's newly developed system uses automated cloud-based spatial information generation technology (developed by Toyota Central R&D Labs) to generate high precision road image data from the databanks and GPS devices of designated user vehicles. While such a system has a higher probability of error than one using three-dimensional laser scanners, positional errors can be mitigated using image matching technologies that integrate and correct road image data collected from multiple vehicles, as well as high precision trajectory estimation technologies. This restricts the system's margin of error to a maximum of 5 cm on straight roads. Utilising production vehicles and existing infrastructure to collect information, this data can be updated in real time. Furthermore, the system can be implemented and scaled up at a relatively low cost.

To support the spread of automated driving technologies, Toyota plans to include this system as a core element in automated driving vehicles that will be made available in production vehicles by around 2020. While initial use of the system is expected to be limited to expressways, future development goals include expanding functionality to cover ordinary roads and assist in hazard avoidance.

Toyota will also seek to collaborate with mapmakers to encourage the use of high precision map data in services offered by both the public and private sectors.

CES 2016 takes place in Las Vegas, from 6-9 January.

Lexus NX runs on ice

Lexus has created a the world’s first set of working wheels and tyres made from ice.

Lexus commissioned a team of ‘ice sculpture’ specialists to explore how ice could be used in place of conventional alloy metal and rubber. After three months’ research, design and testing, the finished wheels were fitted to a Lexus NX for the ultimate ice drive. The car itself was deep-frozen, stored for five days at -30°C before being driven off down a London road.

The use of in-wheel LED lighting added an extra dramatic dimension to the cutting-edge contemporary styling of the NX. The project was undertaken by Hamilton Ice Sculptors, a London-based business established for more than 35 years. For the Lexus commission, genuine NX wheels and tyres were laser scanned and replicated using computer design and numerical control techniques. The result was an 'unprecedented fusing of art and engineering'. Four sculptors worked for 36 hours to produce each wheel. The millimetre-perfect finish was achieved with hand-crafting, using Japanese steel chisels and shaping tools, even the tread patterns on the tyres were faithfully reproduced.

The ice was made from softened water taken from a moving flow to ensure it was perfectly clear when taken from the freezer. Acrylic inserts were added to ensure the wheels could take the load of the NX.

Richard Balshaw, Lexus Director said: “Creating Amazing is what Lexus is about. Projects such as our hoverboard, the origami-inspired cardboard car and now a dazzling set of fully functioning ice wheels, demonstrate how we use advanced technologies and the best craftsmanship traditions to achieve outstanding results. That’s not just for eye-catching one-off projects, but for the cars we deliver to our customers too.”

UK plug-in car grant extended until 2018

The government has announced a long-term extension to the UK’s plug-in car grant.

Backed by a £400 million package to treble the number of ultra low emission vehicles on Britain’s roads, the grant will continue beyond the latest guarantee of February 2016 until at least the end of March 2018, and will mean more than 100,000 people will benefit over the coming years — double the number who have already claimed the grant since 2011. From next March, buyers of the greenest cars can save up to £4,500 off the overall purchase price.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “The UK is a world leader in the uptake of low emission vehicles and the plug-in car grant has been key to that success. Extending the grant in a sustainable way ensures more than 100,000 people will benefit from financial support when purchasing these cheap-to-run and green cars. We are determined to keep Britain at the forefront of the technology, increasing our support for plug-in vehicles to £600 million over the next 5 years to cut emissions, create jobs and support our cutting-edge industries.”

The grant was created in 2011 to encourage sales of ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) and has been instrumental in the UK becoming the biggest ULEV market in the EU, and the fourth largest in the world with some 50,000 people already benefitting.

From 1 March 2016, 2 grant rates will be available to ensure the funding is sustainable and focus financial support on the greenest vehicles. ‘Category 1’ vehicles with a zero emission range of over 70 miles will benefit from a grant of £4500. ‘Category 2 and 3’ vehicles with a shorter zero emission range — such as plug-in hybrid vehicles with a petrol or diesel engine — will receive £2500.

The new grant levels reflect strong growth in the sector with sales of ULEVs doubling over the past year. Motorists also have a wider choice of 29 ULEVs on the market — 5 times as many as when the plug-in car grant was launched. The UK is also at the forefront of the roll-out of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, which are also eligible for the £4500 grant thanks to their zero tailpipe emissions.

The government has also today announced it will continue to provide a grant to help ULEV owners have a dedicated charge point installed at their home. From 1 March 2016, the electric vehicle homecharge scheme (EVHS) will offer £500 per installation, which on average will cover around half of the cost of getting a charge point.

The plug-in car grant is just one element of a £600 million package of measures from the Office for Low Emission Vehicles over the course of this parliament which also includes funding for chargepoints, grants encouraging low emission buses and taxis and R&D funding for innovative technology such as lighter vehicles and longer-lasting car batteries.

To encourage zero emission vehicles and maximise the number of everyday motorists who can benefit from government support, a price cap will also be introduced from 1 March 2016. Category 2 and 3 models with a list price of over £60,000 will not be eligible for the grant, but all category 1 vehicles with a zero emission range of over 70 miles will be eligible for the full £4,500 grant.

The government has committed to make nearly all cars and vans in the UK zero emission by 2050, and announced in the Spending Review to increase funding to £600 million between 2015 and 2020 to support the development, manufacture and uptake of ULEVs.

This commitment was reinforced when the UK was one of 14 international members of the Zero Emission Vehicle Alliance to sign a pledge promoting the uptake of electric cars at the recent Paris climate conference.

Top Gear’s Reasonably Priced Car up for auction

Bidding has opened for a piece of motoring history – the Vauxhall Astra used by Top Gear as their ‘Reasonably Priced Car’.

With proceeds of the sale going to automotive industry charity, BEN, the five-door Power Red 1.6-litre (115bhp) Vauxhall Astra Tech Line has been added to eBay. Currently at £10,301.00, bids can placed at www.ebay.co.uk/itm/-/231786726259, with all proceeds being donated to BEN.

The mileage on the Astra stands at 2,908, and comes with front Corbeau Sprint Racing seats, 5 point safety belt harness and full roll-cage. Bidders should be aware that the airbags have all been disabled to make room for the roll-cage. To re-instate the airbags would involve removing the roll-cage and seating. So, in its current state, the car is not type-approved and should not be driven on the road. The Vauxhall Technical Team will work with the successful bidder at handover to fully explain how the vehicle has been adapted, advising that converting the vehicle back into use on the public highway would incur a ‘significant cost’.

Other features, aside from the car’s celebrity status include 17-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, Sat-nav system with seven-inch colour monitor, and three-spoke leather-covered sports steering wheel.

With an estimated 350 million views in 170 different countries per week, the Vauxhall Astra was initiated with a star-studded barbeque, featuring celebrities including comedians Jimmy Carr and Warwick Davis, and singers Brian Johnson and Joss Stone. Celebrities such as Olly Murs, who topped the leader board, Margot Robbie, Ron Howard and James Blunt all thrashed it around the Top Gear Test Track at Dunsfold Park, Surrey.

“David Main, BEN Chief Executive commented on the auction, saying: “We are reliant on the generosity of our supporters to enable us to continue our work helping people who work within the UK automotive industry, so we are very grateful to Vauxhall Motors for this kind donation of a piece of history for a great cause.”

BEN’s goal is to make positive differences to people’s lives in the automotive industry, supporting them in times of difficulty through a wide range of free, confidential information, advice and support services.

New Lotus Exige Sport 350 unveiled

Lotus has revealed its new Exige Sport 350.

The new model is lighter and faster than ever before. With a focus on pure performance, the two-seater has been developed to deliver an ‘unrivalled experience’ for the driver, being sharper and more direct than previous models. Drawing on the Exige’s core elements, the Sport 350 combines Lotus’ lightweight extruded aluminium chassis structure with ‘muscular and aerodynamically efficient’ composite bodywork.

A product of Lotus’ ‘Lightweight Laboratory’, the Exige Sport 350 weighs just 1125 kg and has shed 51 kg compared to the previous model Exige S. Engineers weighed every component in the previous Exige S in order to save weight, the result of which includes, amongst many other changes, the introduction of a louvered tailgate panel, a lighter battery, lightweight engine mounts, a lightweight centre console featuring an exposed gearshift mechanism, lighter HVAC pipework and the optimised use of sound insulation.

Powered by a 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, generating 345 hp and 295lbft of torque at 4500rpm, 0-62 mph takes 3.9 seconds (3.8 seconds with the automatic, due to electronically optimised gearshifts) and on to a top speed of 170 mph. The manual gearbox has been heavily revised for more precise and quicker shifting. The new Exige Sport 350 can be specified with a 6-speed automatic gearbox where drivers can also change gears manually via forged aluminium paddles located behind the steering wheel. The automatic gearbox control panel is integrated into the centre console of the cockpit, with buttons for Park, Reverse, Neutral and Drive. Up-shifts take 240 milliseconds, with rapid downshifts accompanied by automatic throttle-blip (when in Sport mode).

Replacing the previous model’s glass tailgate, the newly designed lightweight, strong and stiff, rear louvered tailgate not only helps lower the centre of gravity, but also aids engine bay cooling. The car’s aerodynamic styling produces 42 kg of down force at 100 mph with the rear wing and flat underside both contributing to its aerodynamic performance and ‘finely balanced handling’. As standard, the front splitter, rear wing, front access panel, roof panel, wing mirrors and rear transom are finished in matt black to complement the car’s ‘aggressive stance’.

There are three driving modes - ‘Drive’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ – with the latter offering increased levels of traction slip threshold, allowing wider drift angles before intervening. The system also opens the engine exhaust bypass valve at mid-to-high engine speeds. Both ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings increase throttle responsiveness.

New trim packs introduce a heritage theme to the cabin with lightweight sports seats and door panels clad in red or yellow Tartan. The Tartan theme was first introduced in 1976 in the Lotus Esprit S1 and was a bold statement originally in keeping with the fashion of the time and now fitting for the new Exige Sport 350.

The Lotus Exige Sport 350 goes on sale in Europe in February 2016 and will be priced at £55,900 OTR.

New Vauxhall Maloo gets power-boost

Vauxhall’s new Maloo pick-up has received an all-new, supercharged 6.2-litre, 536PS V8 engine.

Vauxhall describes its only pick-up as ‘possibly not a contender for next year’s MPG Marathon’ but it will haul up to 540kgs from standstill to sixty in ‘an unfeasibly short space of time’ - 0-62mph takes 4.6 secsonds.

For 2016, the new LSA engine brings maximum power up from 431PS for the outgoing LS3 V8 to 536PS, and an increase in torque from 570Nm to 671Nm. First seen in the current VXR8 GTS launched last year, the LSA is essentially the same unit fitted to the Camaro ZL1, albeit in a slightly re-tuned form. An Eaton 4-lobe supercharger, stand-alone water-to-air charge-air cooling system and high-flow exhaust system with bi-modal exhaust function turn the Maloo into the fastest production ‘ute’ manufactured in Australia, and the fastest CV available in the UK.

To cater for the extra 105PS of power and 101Nm of torque compared with the outgoing Maloo, modifications have been made to the vehicle’s chassis. Spring and damper rates have been stiffened to reduce body-roll and further improve turn-in, while the unique rear suspension module delivers improved rear stiffness and rear braking efficiency. Also now standard on the Maloo LSA are Launch Control (manual models only), a limited slip differential, sat-nav, Bluetooth, Onyx Leather trim, and EDI (Enhanced Driver Interface).

In addition to more power and standard equipment, the 2016 Maloo also receives exterior styling upgrades with the front end featuring a re-designed fascia incorporating a subtle splitter, while the addition of pitch-black bonnet air vents help deliver ‘an even more aggressive look’. The pitch-black theme is carried through to the mirror-backs and wing-vents, with a new 20-inch, five-spoke alloy wheel design completing the styling package. Two new colours – ‘Slipstream’ (vibrant blue) and ‘Some Like it Hot’ (metallic red) - complement the Maloo’s fresh new look.

The Vauxhall Maloo is priced from £54,500 on-the-road.

Blogger Victoria Magrath teams up with Vauxhall

Vauxhall have partnered up with fashion, beauty and travel blogger Victoria Magrath for an online campaign - #ADAMYOURSELF.

Magrath, founder and editor of 'Inthefrow' will undertake a year-long pan-European collaboration, which will follow Victoria as she creates her very own Vauxhall ADAM.

The #ADAMYOURSELF campaign launched with Magrath visiting the Opel/Vauxhall headquarters in Russelsheim, Germany where Mark Adams, Vice President Design Europe opened the doors to his studio. Opel/Vauxhall Chief Marketing Officer Tina Muller said: “With #ADAMYOURSELF we are exactly in the place that’s bustling with fans and future ADAM drivers – the social media channels”. Describing the online campaign she commented, “Together with the stars of the digital lifestyle scene, we are not only very close to the style trends of the target groups, we also invite them to become a part of ADAM and express their personality and creativity in this unique car.”

As part of the campaign people are encouraged to create their own ADAM at www.adamyourself.com. A jury, including Vauxhall representatives and ten European bloggers, will each choose one country favourite which will then each be produced from Autumn 2016 as limited ‘ADAM YOURSELF’ editions. Winners will also be chosen as the “advertising face” for their ADAM in their country.

Victoria Magrath, explained: “The Vauxhall ADAM is a unique car which I couldn’t wait to design and personalise. It was a privilege to meet Mark Adams and his design team to learn more about the design process. I was even taken around a track at high-speed by their rally team – an experience I won’t forget in a hurry!”

Inthefrow was established in 2012 and within its first six months, won Company Magazine Best Newcomer Blog Award, and a year later, the award for Best Established Blog. In total, ten creative lifestyle bloggers from all over Europe will work with Opel/Vauxhall and the ADAM.

The bloggers include, Nilam Farooq (Germany), Nicoletta Reggio (Italy), Lukasz Jakobiak (Poland), Caroline Bassac (France), Joao Manzarra (Portugal), Mascha Feoktistova (Netherlands), Lorna Weightman (Ireland) as well as Vanja Milicevic and Jelena Karakas (Serbia).

Hyundai teases new IONIQ

A new rendering of Hyundai’s all-new IONIQ hints at the looks of the alternative-fuel compact vehicle, which is due for launch in early 2016.

Hyundai has confirmed that the IONIQ will be the world’s first car to offer a choice of three ultra-low-emission powertrains: full electric, plug-in gasoline / electric hybrid, or gasoline / electric hybrid. 

With a sleek, coupe-like silhouette, Hyundai says the IONIQ will deliver a fun and responsive driving experience, while also meeting the needs of those wishing to reduce the impact their motoring has on the environment. 

At the front, it sports the familiar Hyundai hexagonal grille, topped by a gloss-black element that extends outwards to meet new headlamps featuring integrated ‘C’-position lights. 

Inside the IONIQ the smooth, clutter-free theme continues. A clear, logical approach has been applied to the layout of control functions, with simple surfaces that make use of eco-friendly materials to convey, says Hyundai, ‘a futuristic yet warm cabin ambience that will appeal to a new generation of motorists’. 

The IONIQ’s name references elements of its creation. An ion is an electrically-charged atom, linking to the car’s clever combination of electrified powertrains. The ‘I’ is said to reference the ‘unique offering it brings to the Hyundai range, demonstrating the brand’s environmental commitment and willingness to maximise choice for its customers’. Finally, the Q is depicted in the car’s logo as a visual breakthrough, acknowledging the fresh new approach of this advanced, low-emission model.

Following a world premiere in Korea in January, the IONIQ is due to be shown during March 2016 at the Geneva International Motor Show and the New York Auto Show.

Mercedes Roadster revamped and renamed SLC

Mercedes is revamping its SLK Roadster model and relaunching it with a brand new name – SLC.

In March 2016, 20 years on from the arrival of the first SLK Roadster, the new SLC will arrive with a new look and upgraded technology.

The name change is said to acknowledge the close relationship with the C-Class, from which much of the roadster’s technology is derived. 

As part of the facelift, there’s a new front section with a steeply raked radiator grille designed to elongate the appearance of the arrow-shaped bonnet. All SLC models feature a diamond radiator grille as standard, but the new LED Intelligent Light System is only available as an optional extra.

There’s also a new addition to the model line-up in the shape of the sporty, 3.0-litre V6 biturbo-engined Mercedes-AMG SLC 43.

Sporting a modified version of the suspension carried over from the Mercedes-AMG SLK 55, the range-topper can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, thanks to its 367hp and peak torque of 520 Nm.

The SLC’s dynamic characteristics can be adjusted at the touch of a button, modifying the engine, transmission, steering and suspension to suit the driver’s taste. The DYNAMIC SELECT system offers a choice five driving modes – Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Eco and Individual – and is fitted as standard in the 300, the 250 d and the SLC 43.

In addition, a range of technology upgrades to the SLC’s safety, comfort and infotainment systems includes the fitment of Active Brake Assist, an improved vario-roof design and a larger media display featuring extended functionality.

Prices will be announced when the SLC is available to order in mid-January 2016, with first cars arriving in showrooms from April 2016.

smart fortwo cabrio pricing announced

smart has confirmed the new fortwo cabrio will be priced from £13,265 OTR when it goes on sale early next year.

The fortwo cabrio is available with one of two engines - 71 hp or 90 hp turbo - mated to a new five-speed manual gearbox (available to order in spring 2016) or twinamic six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission (£995), which brings quick gear shifts and ‘even greater efficiency’ when paired with the 90hp engine.

Like its fortwo and forfour siblings, there are three model lines available: passion, prime and proxy. The passion, 71hp manual model is the entry point to the range at £13,265 OTR (or 13,860 for the 90hp model) and features 15” eight-spoke alloy wheels along with automatic climate control; smart audio system with Bluetooth connectivity; and a choice of either an orange/black or a grey/black interior.

Entry to the prime trim level starts at 13,960 (14,555 OTR 90hp) and adds 15” five-twin-spoke black alloys with high sheen finish; black leather upholstery with grey topstitching; and heated seats. Additional dashboard instrument pods with a cockpit clock and rev counter are a classic smart touch.

The proxy model range starts from 13,960 OTR (14,555 90hp) and is fitted with 16” eight-Y-spoke alloy wheels in black. It also features a blue and white interior with Artico and cloth upholstery, and – as standard – the Sports Package which includes: a sports perforated leather multifunction steering wheel; sports suspension lowered by 10 mm; rubber-studded brushed steel sports pedals and a chrome exhaust finisher.

The fortwo cabrio comes with a black soft top as standard, but customers can also opt for the red option (£115). A compact wind deflector (£59) is also available. Customers can also choose to upgrade with the choice of the Premium and Premium Plus Packages. The Premium Package is available on passion, prime and proxy model lines (£795) and includes rear parking assistance (acoustic parking sensors); smart media system with navigation; and the Comfort package (which includes a height adjustable steering wheel and heated, electrically adjustable door mirrors). 

The Premium Plus Package (which includes all the features of the Premium and Comfort Pack) is available on the prime and proxy model lines only, for £1,295, and includes: ambient lighting; welcome home function; LED headlamps with enhanced LED daytime running lights; cube-like LED tail lights; rain and light sensors; and a rear-view camera.

The new fortwo cabrio arrives in showrooms in early 2016.

Lexus teams up with Jude Law

Lexus confirmed a creative collaboration with Hollywood actor Jude Law to launch The Life RX.

The advertising campaign aim to ‘amplify the qualities’ of the new Lexus RX SUV. Jude Law will work closely with Lexus ‘to enable consumers to immerse themselves and be immersed in The Life RX through interactive videography and theatre’. He will also star in a television commercial filmed on the French Riviera and in the hills of Italy’s Fiuggi region.

The ad, which airs from today throughout Europe, depicts a hotel valet who is given the keys to Jude Law’s sharply styled RX and takes the car on an extraordinary and fast-paced journey. Filmed from a first-person perspective, it aims to catapult the audience into an exciting and luxurious new world. When the wayward valet returns, Law emerges to retrieve the keys and get into his Lexus. He immediately senses something is not quite right and, with a knowing look, drives off into the distance, leaving the valet behind with the memory of having experienced The Life RX for just a short while.

Jude Law said: “I love driving and the escapism that comes with it. The concept of The Life RX is such an interesting one, as it’s true that the right car can give you the keys to an extraordinary experience. The team at Lexus envisioned bringing something to life that was immersive and included everyone on the journey, and this was something I was keen to explore.”

Alain Uyttenhoven, Head of Lexus Europe, said: “We are extremely excited to be partnering with Jude Law, a fantastic actor and a true gentleman, for The Life RX campaign. The Life RX mirrors the fact that the RX brings a different, rewarding product experience based on a bold design, innovative technologies and, above all, a premium, luxury feel. At Lexus, providing an unparalleled progressive luxury experience is at the heart of our brand and we wanted to bring this message to life with an innovative launch campaign and television ad.”

Prices for the Lexus RX start at £39,995 OTR.