New Jeep flagship London showroom

Jeep has launched a new flagship showroom in central London.

Executives, business leaders and sports stars were among the 100 guests hosted by Motor Village UK to celebrate the arrival of Jeep into Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Wigmore Street location.

Just around the corner from London’s famous Oxford Street, Motor Village UK will display Jeep vehicles in its shiny new showroom for the first time this spring. The flagship has previously only sold Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Abarth vehicles, making it the first time the iconic 4x4 car brand comes to the city. The Jeep Wrangler, Renegade, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee models will all be displayed.

The opening of the only Jeep dealership in central London coincides with Jeep’s 75th Anniversary celebrations for 2016. Born in 1941, Jeep has a rich heritage and history, and some of the marque's most famous models were on display at the gala launch opening including a 1946 Willys and a 1970s CJ-7.

Steve Zanlunghi, Head of Jeep Brand, EMEA and Managing Director, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles UK, and Fabio Di Prima, Head of Fiat Chrysler Motor Village UK, officially announced the opening of the site to an audience of selected guests. “London is clearly an important area for Jeep to be visible in, and what better way to do that than through the Motor Village site” said Di Prima. “From the iconic Wrangler, right through to our big Jeep Grand Cherokee, the whole range of award winning SUVs will be available for customers to see and discover more about. This is a wonderful opportunity for Jeep and its customers.”

A separate display, celebrating Jeep’s partnership with the blockbuster movie 'Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice' was also shown, featuring the Jeep Renegade SUV, which appears in the film. As part of the celebrations, a special test drive experience has been organised until 31 March, in which customers can drive any of the current line-up of Jeep vehicles, with a Jeep specialist alongside for guidance.

Nissan reveals revamped GT-R in New York

The facelifted Nissan GT-R is making its debut at the New York International Auto Show.

A range of design tweaks, performance enhancements and new features are said to represent the most significant changes to the model since it was introduced in 2007.

 The latest GT-R’s front end makeover includes the new chrome matte finish “V-motion” grille – enlarged for improved engine cooling – with an updated mesh pattern, while the new bonnet has been reinforced to help improve stability during high-speed driving. A redesigned front spoiler lip and bumper with finishers situated immediately below the headlights are said to generate high levels of downforce.

The rear of the car has also been revamped with new bodywork to help improve air flow, as well as side air vents next to the quad exit exhaust pipes. The belt line that separates the lower black section from the body panel has been heightened to give the car a wider and more aggressive look from the rear.

The 3.8-litre 24-valve twin-turbocharged V6 engine now delivers 570 PS at 6,800 rpm and 637Nm of torque. The improved output, which is the result of individual ignition-timing control of the cylinders and extra boost from the turbochargers gives acceleration in the mid- to high-ranges (3,200 rpm and above). It comes mated to a thoroughly refined 6-speed dual-clutch transmission that features smoother shifts and less noise. That familiar GT-R tone also has been upgraded with an engine that has ‘never sounded better’ says Nissan. The resonance of the new titanium exhaust and Active Sound Enhancement (ASE) enhance the driving experience.

On the inside, the entire dashboard and instrument panel are new and covered with high-quality leather. The centre dashboard layout has also been improved and simplified - Integrated navigation and audio controls reduce the number of switches from 27 in the previous model to only 11 in the 2016 model. An enlarged 8-inch touchscreen monitor features large icons on the display screen to make it easy to operate. A new display command control on the carbon-fibre centre console allows easy operation.

The paddle shifts are now mounted to the new steering wheel, allowing drivers to change gears in mid-turn without having to take their hands off the wheel. The paddles themselves, along with the ventilation controls, have improved feel and better sound when engaged or adjusted.

Cornering abilities have become even better with a more rigid body structure and new suspension, resulting in better stability through quick lateral transitions and higher overall cornering speed. Providing the grip are sticky 20 inch tyres, wrapped around new “Y-spoke” machine-finished forged aluminium wheels.

The Recaro Edition will continue to be available but there are also new colours for 2016, inside and out, designed to complement the GT-R’s character. A “Katsura Orange” with multi layered painting has been added to the exterior paint palate, while the leather interior of the Prestige Edition offers customers four different options: the newly added Tan, as well as Red, Ivory and all over Black.

The revamped Nissan GT-R is set to go on sale in the Autumn.

New Toyota Prius PHEV debuts in NY

The second generation of the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid has debuted at the 2016 New York International Auto Show.

Offering improvements in its EV performance, in terms of driving range, power and maximum speed, the new model builds on the strengths of the latest generation Prius, introduced earlier this year.

The new Prius Plug-in’s Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain features a larger, 8.8kW/h lithium-ion battery pack, increasing its driving range in EV mode as well as the potential driving range from a tank of fuel. Fuel consumption shows a marked improvement compared to its predecessor, with an estimated average figure of 202mpg, the best rating for any current plug-in hybrid on the market, says Toyota, producing a CO2 figure of just 32g/km.

Even when not running in EV mode, the Prius Plug-in will automatically favour its all-electric drive capability in situations where this can deliver higher efficiency than the petrol engine, most notably when driving around town and on shorter journeys.

The new plug-in hybrid system further minimises use of the petrol engine, even when accelerating quickly or using the cabin heater, with the adoption of a new battery-powered heating system that improves efficiency in cold weather, and the world’s first heat pump air conditioning system with gas injection.

As a result of these advanced technologies, the new car can be driven at speeds up to 84mph while still in EV mode. The potential EV driving range is more than 30 miles, around twice that of its predecessor, and charging the battery should take around two hours and 20 minutes.

The hybrid system’s 1.8-litre Atkinson cycle VVT-i engine also plays an important role in its overall efficiency. Its large-volume exhaust gas recirculation system, improved combustion efficiency and innovative measures to manage heat and reduce friction have improved its thermal efficiency to 40 per cent, a world-best figure for a mass-produced petrol engine.

The Prius styling presents a ‘chiselled profile and edgy character lines’ according to Toyota, and has a more ‘road-hugging’ look and a lower centre of gravity. Compared to the current model, it is 165mm longer, 15mm wider and sits 20mm lower to ground.

The car’s 0.24 drag coefficient (Cd) is expected to be among the lowest of any production saloon, achieved with a number of advanced design features such as the “double bubble” tailgate glass and a grille shutter which automatically closes when airflow is not needed to cool the radiator.

Weight has been kept to a minimum through extensive use of high-tensile steel in the bodyshell, aluminium for the bonnet and, in a first for a mass-produced car, a carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) tailgate. Its status as an individual model within the Prius range is confirmed by a unique lighting signature, created with four-lamp LED projector headlights and LED tail lamps.

The interior features a four-seat layout, built around a full-length centre console. The instrument cluster has dual 4.2-inch full colour TFT screens while the centre cluster has a floating design and an eight-inch touchscreen for easy operation of audio and navigation functions, including flick actions to scroll through the different displays.

A sound-insulating laminated windscreen and front door glazing creates, says Toyota, an ‘exceptionally quiet’ cabin environment, aided and abetted by a quieter S-Flow automatic air conditioning system which has been made smaller and lighter and uses less power.

The Prius Plug-in will be offered with Toyota Safety Sense, equipping it with integrated active safety and driver assistance functions including a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Autonomous Emergency Braking; Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist; Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control with full stop technology; and Automatic High Beam headlight operation. A Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert will also be available.

The new Prius Plug-in will be available in UK showrooms from the end of this year.

Mercedes unveils GLC Coupe

Mercedes has revealed its new GLC Coupe SUV.

A year after making its debut in concept form in Shanghai, the production version appears largely unchanged, fusing the stylistic elements of a sporting coupe with Mercedes’ modern SUV design language.

“The GLC Coupé reflects our iconic Mercedes-Benz coupé design while symbolising the bipolarity of our brand – it is ‘hot and cool’,” said Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG. “With its design idiom of sensual purity, it perfectly embodies our styling philosophy while at the same time representing contemporary luxury.”

Standard sports suspension is combined with sports steering, permanent all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission for a blend of ‘superior’ ride comfort and ‘decidedly sporty’ agility, says Mercedes. 

Two suspension variants with continuously adjustable damping are optionally available: the new DYNAMIC BODY CONTROL with steel springing as well as the already familiar AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension – both promising further enhanced driving dynamics and comfort.

Measuring 4.73 metres in length, 1.60 metres in height and with a wheelbase of 2.87 metres, the GLC Coupe is almost eight centimetres longer and some four centimetres lower than the ‘regular’ GLC, with which it shares its basic architecture.

The GLC Coupe is distinguished by a single-louvred diamond radiator grille and a restyled, sloping roofline. The A-pillar is less steeply raked, while the continuation of the roof outline is lower, flowing to a muscular rear end. The rear window dispenses with a wiper, as the airflow does not break away until after the spoiler lip, which, according to Mercedes, means that water is unable to strike the rear window.

The new GLC Coupe is available in a total of eight model variants, with four diesel and four petrol engines, including a plug-in hybrid as well as a powerful Mercedes-AMG model.

The entry-level models are the four-cylinder diesel-engined 220 d and 250 d 4MATIC Coupe with outputs ranging from 170hp to 204hp as well as the four-cylinder petrol-engined 250 4MATIC Coupe rated at 211hp.

Mercedes also offers a plug-in hybrid (350 e 4MATIC Coupe) that combines agile all-wheel drive with low fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. With a total system output of 320hp, it delivers a top speed of 146mph with acceleration from rest to 62mph in 5.9 seconds, courtesy of a boost function.

CO2 emissions are between 59‑64g/km in normal use but it can cover as much as 18.6 miles in zero-emission all-electric mode.

The range-topping Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe, powered by a 367hp V6 biturbo engine, can cover the 0 to 62mph sprint in less than 5 seconds.

Market launch will be in the autumn with these engine line-ups. Further models will follow at the end of 2016.

Mazda reveals MX-5 RF with retractable hardtop

Mazda has unveiled the MX-5 RF (“retractable fastback”) on the eve of the New York International Auto Show.

Featuring fastback styling with a smooth roofline that slopes down to the rear, the MX-5 RF’s unique rear roof and retractable back window deliver a ‘distinctive new convertible feeling’, says Mazda.

The power roof opens and closes with the press of a button while moving at speeds of up to 10km/h, stowing away compactly so the boot space is exactly the same as the soft-top model's.

Also like the soft-top, the new version will be available in Europe with a choice of two SKYACTIV-G petrol engines – the 1.5 and 2.0 – mated either to a six-speed manual gearbox or – exclusively for the MX-5 RF – a six-speed automatic.

Paint colours include a new premium ‘Machine Grey’ finish, specially designed to intensify the contrast between light and shadow in order to accentuate Mazda’s sculptural ‘KODO – Soul of Motion’ exteriors.

The new colour, which will be available on a range of Mazda models, is applied using Mazda’s Takuminuri painting technology system – a three-coat structure consisting of colour, reflective and clear coats. The reflective layer, which contains extremely thin, high-brightness aluminium flakes, shrinks during the drying process to about one-quarter the thickness of most reflective layers. This causes the flakes to lie flat with regular spacing between each flake for a high-density finish that gives the entire surface a sheen when illuminated, and a genuine metallic look. Meanwhile, Jet black pigment is used in both the reflective and colour layers. It is visible through the spaces between the aluminium flakes, giving them a black hue and thus heightening the contrast.

The MX-5 RF is on display at the New York International Auto Show, which opens to the public from 25 March to 3 April.

Jaguar to build nine brand new XKSS cars

Jaguar is to build the classic 1950s XKSS as an ultra-exclusive continuation model.

Nine new examples will be hand built by Jaguar Classic to the exact specification as they appeared in 1957, replacing the cars lost due to the famous Browns Lane factory fire.

Tim Hannig, Director Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: “The XKSS occupies a unique place in Jaguar’s history and is a car coveted by collectors the world over for its exclusivity and unmistakable design. Jaguar Classic’s highly skilled team of engineers and technicians will draw on decades of knowledge to ensure each of the nine cars is completely authentic and crafted to the highest quality.”

The original cars were earmarked for export to the USA but just 16 were completed before disaster struck. Now 59 years later, Jaguar is going to build the nine ‘lost’ XKSS sports cars for a select group of established collectors and customers.

The expertise gained during the construction of the Lightweight E-type project will be transferred to the construction of the nine ultra-exclusive continuations. Each one will be hand-built at Jaguar’s new ‘Experimental Shop’ in Warwick.

Every car will be constructed to the same specifications as those first 16 made in 1957 – every aspect fully certified by Jaguar. The price will be in excess of £1 million.

The story of the XKSS began following Jaguar’s three successive Le Mans victories in 1955, 1956 and 1957 with the all-conquering D-type.

After the hat-trick of wins, Sir Williams Lyons took the decision on 14 January 1957 to convert the remaining 25 D-types into road-going versions with several external modifications – creating, says Jaguar, the ‘world’s first super car’.

These modifications included the addition of a new higher windscreen, an extra door on the passenger side, taking away the divider between driver and passenger and the removal of the famous fin behind the driver’s seat.

The first deliveries of the new continuation Jaguar XKSS will begin in early 2017.

New TVR to be built in Wales

TVR has revealed its new Sports car will be built in Wales.

The resurgent British sports car manufacturer confirmed its new production facility will be located in the Ebbw Vale Enterprise Zone in South Wales. The Welsh Government will also invest in the car maker, further enhancing this exciting manufacturing project which represents over £30 million of capital expenditure over the next five years.

The new TVR project, which was announced in early 2015, has already secured in excess of 350 deposits for the launch edition car, which features an innovative design and styling that ‘maintains the distinctive TVR DNA'. The chassis and body has been designed by Gordon Murray of Gordon Murray Design Ltd. and will be the first production car to be manufactured using their new iStream assembly process. Power is provided by a Cosworth tuned and enhanced V8 engine while F1 inspired, ‘ground-effect’ technology is also a feature. The Welsh factory will be busy fulfilling orders that already run through to the end of 2018.

Currently TVR is looking at several specific options for the precise location of the factory, the outcome of which will be the subject of a separate announcement in the coming weeks. Les Edgar, Chairman of TVR said: “This is a fantastic opportunity both for TVR and the Welsh Government. South Wales is becoming a major hub for automotive and motorsport technology and development and the area is a serious opportunity for business development and job creation. We have a sports car project that has garnered global approval and excitement, and we are delighted that the Welsh government wish to become a part of an exciting new era for TVR.”

Rt. Hon Carwyn Jones, the First Minister of Wales said: “This is yet another fantastic high profile investment for Wales and a great boost for our automotive sector. TVR is another iconic and much loved, world-class brand that still commands a strong and loyal international following. I am delighted the next generation of TVRs will proudly bear the label Made in Wales.”

“Today’s news follows hot on the heels of the Aston Martin announcement and sends out a strong, clear message that Wales is the location of choice for advanced manufacturing. It also illustrates that our pro-business approach is delivering results, attracting significant investment and creating high quality jobs and it is another huge boost for Wales, for our automotive sector and for our skilled workforce.”

Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell breaks new distance records

Hyundai and the London Hydrogen Network Expansion project (LHNE) has broken two new distance records for hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

Working together, the partners of the government-backed LHNE project have broken the record for the longest journey in the UK on a single tank of hydrogen, travelling 400 miles - and have also broken the longest continuous journey for an FCEV by travelling 6,096 miles over the course of six days.

The record was broken in the ix35 Fuel Cell car as part of the LHNE partners’ contribution to Hydrogen Week (March 11-18), designed to raise awareness of the significant benefits offered by FCEVs and their environmentally-friendly credentials.

The group of companies that comprise the project, which is led by Air Products, completed around 50 of laps of the M25 motorway, plus mileage to and from one of the four publicly-accessible hydrogen refuelling stations in the UK.

Hydrogen FCEVs produce no harmful tailpipe emissions with water being the only by-product. With range and refuelling times similar to those of petrol or diesel cars, they can be seen as direct replacements for conventional vehicles.

LHNE, co-funded by Innovate UK, was set up in 2012 to create the UK’s first hydrogen-powered transport system across London and the South East. It has delivered a new publicly-accessible, state-of-the-art fast-fill SmartFuel hydrogen refuelling station and upgraded a second to 700 bar pressure status.

The LHNE partners are now keen for the adoption of a range of hydrogen vehicle technologies, including fuel cells, to accelerate in the UK but one of the main challenges is the limited coverage of refuelling stations to support the vehicles. There are currently four publicly-accessible stations in the UK, including the two Air Products SmartFuel stations in London, and funding is in place for at least 12 to be operational in England and Scotland within the next 12 months.

Diana Raine, European Business Manager Hydrogen Energy Systems at Air Products, which has led the LHNE project, said: “It is fantastic to have overhauled the two records we aimed to beat this week. The fact that we have managed to drive 6,096 miles in under a week demonstrates perfectly the viability and usability of FCEVs. What we need now for accelerated adoption of hydrogen vehicles is for the Government to work with our industry to provide the right framework for the technology to become truly accepted by the public.”

Prices for the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell vehicle start from £53,105 OTR with part-funding from the HyFive project - saving customers nearly £15,000 off the un-funded on-the-road-price of £67,985.

UK Traffic congestion is on the rise

Traffic congestion in the UK’s biggest cities is 14 per cent worse than it was just five years ago.

That’s according to the annual Traffic Index from TomTom which shows across the rest of Europe, average congestion is actually 3 per cent down over the same period.

The annual Traffic Index shows average UK journeys in 2015 took 29 per cent longer than they would in free-flowing conditions – up from a 25 per cent delay in 2010. The analysis of 14 trillion pieces of traffic data worldwide showed that the morning rush hour is almost 10 per cent more congested than in 2010, with the evening peak nearly a fifth (19 per cent) worse – suggesting that people return home in a narrower time period in the evenings.

The average commuter driving to and from work in the UK’s top 25 cities wasted 127 hours (more than 5 whole days) stuck in traffic during 2015. Congestion has got 4 per cent worse in the past year alone. It’s risen in 17 of the 25 UK cities in the report, with a further 4 remaining about the same. Only Nottingham, Portsmouth, Middlesbrough and Preston have shown slight decreases.

In 295 cities globally Belfast was once again the most congested city in the UK – and 14th worst in the world. Journey times in 2015 were 40 per cent slower than free-flow traffic throughout the day – peaking at 86 per cent longer in the evening rush hour.

London is the 20th most congested city worldwide – and second worst in the UK - with journey times 38 per cent slower, rising to 66 per cent in the evening peak. The Northern Powerhouse of Manchester (37 per cent slower) moves up into third place, overtaking Edinburgh (37 per cent) and Brighton (34 per cent). The next five worst cities for congestion are Hull, Bournemouth, Newcastle, Bristol and Sheffield.

“Transport authorities are managing congestion with well-engineered policies, but you can’t just build your way out of traffic jams” said Ralf-Peter Schaefer, Vice-President of TomTom Traffic. "Studies have shown that policies of ‘predict and provide’ are unsustainable. Building new motorways and ring roads doesn’t eliminate congestion. More must be done to better manage existing road space and to spread demand.

“People simply aren’t doing enough to change their travel habits - such as working flexible hours, avoiding peak commuting times, making use of real–time traffic information and trying alternative travel modes. If only five per cent of us changed our travel plans, we could improve traffic congestion on our main roads by up to thirty per cent”.

Globally, Istanbul has been knocked off the top spot by Mexico City. Commuters in the Mexican capital can expect to spend 59 per cent extra travel time stuck in traffic during the day, rising to 94 per cent in the evening peak period – a total of 219 wasted hours a year. The next most congested big cities worldwide are Bangkok (57 per cent), Istanbul (50 per cent), Rio de Janeiro (47 per cent) and Moscow (44 per cent).

TomTom has been collecting traffic data since 2008 and over that period, the UK city that has recorded the largest overall growth in congestion is Coventry - up a staggering 67 per cent. Stoke-on-Trent has seen the biggest increase in rush hour congestion, at 44 per cent. But Cardiff can give itself a pat on the back, with overall congestion down 19 per cent since 2008.

The TomTom Traffic Index is the only global measurement of congestion comparing travel times between non-congested hours and rush hour periods, for passenger vehicles. It takes into account local roads, main roads and motorways across 295 cities in 38 countries on six continents.

Dog parallel parks Vauxhall Corsa

It seems you really can teach an old dog new tricks, as Gerty the Boxer successfully parked a new Corsa.

Vauxhall put its all-new Corsa in the paws of a capable canine to test its latest Advanced Park Assist technology. The star of Vauxhall’s new #ParallelBarking video, which features the daring dog execute a parallel park, with no human assistance, left passers-by on Wimbledon High Street baffled.

Sitting in the driver’s seat of the red Vauxhall Corsa SE, Gerty shows off the advanced technology of the new easy parking feature – from how it detects a parking space to automatically computing the perfect manoeuvre into the slot – demonstrating that parallel parking can be a walk in the park.

Advanced Park Assist is now available as an optional extra in the new Corsa, available from £8,995 OTR. Watch Gerty in action here:

Volvo to celebrate the Estate car at Techno Classica 2016

Volvo has confirmed it will attend the world's biggest classic car show, Techno Classica, celebrating “60 years of estate heritage”.
 
The new Volvo V90, which just debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, comes after six decades of estate knowledge, starting with the Volvo Duett which was launched in 1953. Volvo describes it as the first car to meet the combined needs of drivers’ active leisure time and practical professional lives and has sold more than 6 million estates worldwide, representing around a third of the total number of Volvos sold since the company’s foundation in 1927.

The Volvo stand at Techno Classica is entirely devoted to the Swedish brand´s estate history, featuring a selection of six iconic estate models that have shaped Volvo’s history: The Duett - Launched in 1953, the Duett went on to become one of the first Volvos to be exported to the US and it was immortalised in 1997 when featured on a Swedish postage stamp.

The Duett was followed in 1962 by the Amazon, or the 221 as it was officially known. The Amazon was a more elegant and refined estate than the Duett, which had its origins as a delivery van, while it also offered more space in the boot. At the end of November 1967, Volvo presented the third variant in what was now developing into a complete car family known as the 140 Series: the Volvo 145. This design of the rear section has since become a well-known characteristic of all Volvo estates. The Volvo 145 quickly became an extremely popular estate and played an increasingly important role within the 140 Series.
 
A refresh of the 1800 sports coupe, the 1800 ES was known in England as a Shooting Brake: a sporty estate with space for hunting gear or golf clubs in the back. The 1800 ES was introduced in the autumn of 1971, and its most exciting feature possibly being the huge rear windscreen that had no bezel whatsoever. Hinges and handles were fixed directly to the glass, which was very modern in the early 1970s. As only around 8,000 1800 ES were built, it has become one of the most sought-after classic Volvo models.
 
In 1974, the archetypal Volvo estate car was launched: the 245, which remained in production for almost 20 years until 1993, and was also available in a more exclusive edition - the 265 with a V6 engine. The 1980s marked the launch of the 245 Turbo edition, the world’s first estate car with a turbo engine. With its intense yellow paint job, 240 horsepower and acceleration of 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds. Launched as a limited edition, model year 1994-only version of the 850, the T5-R became an ‘instant collector's item’ says Volvo.

Techno Classica takes place in Essen, Germany and runs from 6-10 April.

Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR tested

The Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR has successfully completed the official TCR comparison tests in Valencia.

Prior to this, the first five of 20 cars were delivered to two customers. The cars were then put through their paces during two days of testing at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. Engstler Motorsport from Germany and the W-Racing Team from Belgium, who line up in the TCR International Series in 2016, took to the racetrack for the first time with the new 330-hp touring car.

As well as familiarising themselves with the new car, the test programme also included the obligatory Balance-of-Performance test (BOP). This meant performance tests on the test stand, car measurements to determine the car’s centre of gravity, acceleration and deceleration tests with varying amounts of ballast and an official TCR driver at the wheel. The data gathered in the BOP is analysed and used to achieve a similar level of performance between the cars of different manufacturers, thus ensuring everyone has the same chance of winning. However, this task proved far from easy as heavy rain repeatedly disrupted the two test days.

In total, eight customer sports teams will field the Golf GTI TCR in 2016: Engstler Motorsport, Kai Jordan, D&T Drive & Training (all Germany), W-Racing Team, Gtps Delahaye Racing Team (both Belgium), Milo Racing (Luxembourg), Gusto Technik Performance (Hong Kong) and Novaplus Gestao Desportiva (Portugal). The racing Golf will start in five TCR championships: in the international series, the Benelux and Asia series as well as in the German and Portuguese championships.

Eduard Weidl, Head of Customer Sports said: “The comparison tests with the Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR went well. We are happy, but we also know that we still have some work ahead of us – particularly when it comes to the cars’ traction. As such, the tests were very helpful and revealing. The Engstler team completed more than 50 laps with its three cars on both days, allowing it to make some valuable findings. The feedback received from the customer sports teams and drivers on the Golf GTI TCR was certainly very positive.”

Jordi Gene, test and development driver added: “The Golf GTI TCR is a real racer. Compared to last year’s concept car, we have made good progress in many areas. Thanks to the new six-speed sequential racing gearbox, an improved braking system, and modifications to the aerodynamics, the Golf is now even better to drive. We will obviously continue to work on the car throughout the season, where the regulations allow it, in order to ensure that we improve continuously. As far as performance is concerned, I am sure that the customer sports teams will be able to challenge for the championship in the various TCR series.”

Nissan celebrates 20 years of the curry hook

Nissan has been successfully delivering curry to its customers for 20 years.

Returning safely from the take-away without spilling a drop of Tikka Masala sauce on the seat, this month marks 20 years since the debut of one of its most simple of features – the ‘curry hook’.

The dashboard hook first appeared on the Nissan Almera compact family hatchback in March 1996, as a way of keeping hand bags or shopping bags upright. It was quickly dubbed the ‘curry hook’ by media who recognised it was the perfect way to stop takeaway food from spilling into the car’s foot well. Today, it remains a feature of the crossovers such as the Qashqai and X-Trail. All that’s changed is the location of the hook; it has moved from the dashboard to the boot.

Another simple solution Nissan has installed is the ‘Karakuri’ boot board – also known as the Flexi-Board – which is available on the Qashqai, Juke and Note. It allows owners to divide the cargo space according to their needs, and can be arranged in various configurations to support and protect items in transit. When not in use, it stores out of the way in the boot floor.

Interestingly, in September 1986 when the first Nissan Bluebird rolled off the new production line in Sunderland it had two analogue trip meters built into the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel - to allow business users to separately log their professional and private mileage. A unique feature at the time, this is now standard on the digital read-outs of almost every volume car brand.

David Moss, Vice President, Vehicle Design & Development, commented: “Whether its trip meters, power sockets, boot boards or the famous curry hook, Nissan engineers never forget that it’s often these clever ideas – which make life easier for drivers – that will keep our customers coming back time and time again.”

Maserati supports the Royal Academy of Arts

Maserati has been confirmed as the official partner of the Royal Academy of Arts new exhibition - In the Age of Giorgione.

Celebrating art and style, which is at the heart of the luxury Italian car manufacturer, Maserati will be supporting the Italian-focussed exhibition, which runs until 5th June 2016.

This unique exhibition is a focused survey of the Venetian Renaissance during the first decade of the sixteenth century, a pivotal period, which laid the foundations for the Golden Age of Venetian painting. Works by Giorgione, Titian and Giovanni Bellini, among others are presented in the exhibition, offering visitors the opportunity to view these major works of art, first-hand.

Peter Denton, Region Manager for Maserati North Europe, said, “We are absolutely delighted to be partnering with the Royal Academy of Arts. Art has always been at the heart of the Maserati brand; one of the founding Maserati brothers, Mario, was an artist by trade and it was he who chose the iconic Trident symbol as the Maserati emblem you see on our cars today. Over 100 years since then, it’s fantastic to be merging the worlds of Italian art and car design together.” 

Christopher Le Brun, President of the Royal Academy of Arts added, “This is a fantastic partnership for the Royal Academy of Arts. It is a rarity for the Royal Academy to work with automotive brands and to have the iconic manufacturer Maserati onboard working so closely with an exhibition is very exciting.”

In the Age of Giorgione brings together around 50 works from major public institutions and private collections from across Europe and the United States.

Tickets are available daily at the RA or online at www.royalacademy.org.uk.

Toyota Verso refreshed for 2016

Toyota’s Verso MPV has been given a ‘substantial’ safety upgrade as part of an overall model revamp.

Toyota Safety Sense active safety and driver assistance features have been added as standard spec to every model. It’s part of a refresh that includes a revised grade structure, new alloy wheel designs and cabin upgrades. Safety Sense includes a Pre-Collision System that recognises an imminent impact with a vehicle ahead, triggering a warning to the driver and priming the brakes for extra stopping power the moment the brake pedal is pressed. If the driver fails to respond, Autonomous Emergency Braking is activated, automatically slowing the vehicle to reduce the force of any impact.

The Verso also now has Automatic High Beam which detects both the headlights of oncoming vehicles, and the tail lights of vehicles ahead, automatically switching between high and low beams to avoid dazzling other drivers. The third Toyota Safety Sense element for the Verso is Lane Departure Alert, which monitors lane markings on the road to helps prevent accidents and head-on collisions. If the vehicle starts to deviate from its lane without the turn indicators being used, the system alerts the driver with visual and audible warnings.

These features are in addition to seven airbags, ABS, emergency brakeforce distribution, brake assist, traction control and vehicle stability control which all come as standard.

A new Design trim has joined the range alongside the established Active, Icon and Excel specifications. Available with the 1.8-litre Valvematic petrol engine with automatic transmission and the 1.6-litre D-4D diesel, it comes with the Toyota Touch 2 with Go multimedia system with satellite navigation and reversing camera, rear privacy glass and a (fixed) panoramic roof. These are in addition to the standard features of Icon grade, including DAB tuner, dusk-sensing headlights, cruise control, automatic air conditioning, six-speaker audio and power windows front and rear.

The range-topping Excel model now has the Design trim’s panoramic roof, as well as rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, high-intensity discharge headlights and combination leather and cloth upholstery.

New alloy wheel designs have been added - 16-inch for the Icon, 17-inch for the Design and 17-inch with a double-spoke arrangement for the Excel models, with an Anthracite dark grey finish. The colour choices include a new Platinum Bronze shade.

In the cabin there is a new leather-trimmed steering wheel with integrated switches for hands-free phone, a new gear shift design and a new look cloth upholstery for Icon and Design models. To free up more boot space, the tyre repair kit (when specified) has been relocated to the underfloor storage compartment behind the driver’s seat. The Toyota Touch 2 system adopts a larger, seven-inch display and an improved interface for easier, more intuitive sat nav operation.

The 2016 Toyota Verso is on sale now, priced from £18,120 for the five-seat Active model, £18,650 for seven-seat models with the new Design grade models starting at £23,405 OTR.

Mercedes-AMG reveals GLC 43 4MATIC

Mercedes-AMG has added a sporty GLC 43 4MATIC to its mid-size SUV range.

Offering an AMG model in the mid-size SUV segment for the first time, the 367hp, 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is mated to an automatic transmission 9G-TRONIC with shortened shift times for 0-62 mph time of 4.9 seconds and an electronically governed top speed of 155 mph. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is especially matched to the demands of the GLC 43 4MATIC with model-specific software to reduce the shift times. The multiple downshift allows even faster short bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in the “Sport” and “Sport Plus” transmission modes makes for an even more emotive driving experience.

The ‘precise’ AMG speed-sensitive sports steering and the 4MATIC rear-biased torque distribution of 31 percent at the front axle to 69 percent at the rear, offer ’substantial contribution’ to the agile driving experience. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with adaptive damping adjustment is available in three levels, with the mode selectable via a button.

The design has been enhanced with silver chrome coloured and high-gloss black features. It builds on the AMG Exterior line with a diamond radiator grille featuring chrome-plated pins, a louvre in high-gloss black with inserts in high-gloss chrome and the AMG lettering. The sportily air intakes in the AMG front apron feature fins in silver chrome. Down below, the silver chrome front splitter ensures an optimal flow of air to the cooling modules.

High-gloss black-painted, high-sheen 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels dominate the side view. There are also high-gloss black door mirror caps and the silver-coloured “BITURBO 4MATIC” lettering on the front wings. At the rear, two four-pipe chromed tailpipe trims and AMG-specific rear apron sports trim in silver chrome have been added.

The interior includes numerous specially designed details while the multifunction sports steering wheel in black leather features a flattened bottom section and red contrasting topstitching. The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the sports seats even when driving at speed, thanks to the improved lateral support. The upholstery in black ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre boasts its own seat upholstery layout plus red topstitching.

With two large round dials and central colour multifunction 5.5-inch display, the AMG instrument cluster places all the important information in the driver’s field of vision. The ECO display supports a fuel-saving driving style. Dials in a chequered-flag look and the distinctive typography lend the large displays an especially sporty touch.

The new Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC will be revealed at the New York International Auto Show, and goes on sale 4 April.

Toyota facelifts GT86 for 2016

A facelifted Toyota GT86 will be revealed for the first time at the New York International Auto Show next week.

The new GT86 features ‘more powerful’ styling elements, including an enlarged central air intake emphasising the coupe’s low and wide stance as well as a restyled bumper, fog light housings and LED headlamps and turn indicators. There are also newly-designed alloy wheels with twisted spokes.

On the inside, there has been a focus on improved sensory quality, says Toyota, with a new combination leather and Alcantara upholstery and Alcantara-wrapped instrument panel options. The soft-touch, suede-effect material is also featured on the door trims. A new cloth upholstery will also be available with contrast silver stitching. The sports steering wheel has a new look too, with integrated audio controls and an 86 logo on the centre boss.

The GT86’s credentials as a driver’s car are reaffirmed by suspension changes, with revised shock absorber tuning and spring rates delivering easier control and increased agility. The powertrain is unaltered, retaining the car’s front-mounted, naturally aspirated 2.0-litre “boxer” engine driving the rear wheels.

The refreshed Toyota GT86 will go on sale towards the end of this year.

Genesis ‘New York Concept’ to debut in the big Apple

Genesis will reveal its aptly named ‘New York Concept’ in NY.

The luxury division of Hyundai motors will reveal its ‘ideas of refined design’. A teaser image released ahead of the unveiling hints at the ’athletic elegance’ of the four-door sports saloon, expressing the design direction that will distinguish forthcoming Genesis products.

Manfred Fitzgerald, head of Genesis brand, said: “The New York Concept is a progressive concept car that showcases the design quality of the brand. With its expressive volumes and refined design, the New York Concept truly embodies the athletic elegance, which characterises Genesis products.”

The New York Concept will be unveiled at the Genesis Press Conference March 23. The New York Auto Show is open to the public from March 25 - April 3.

Budget 2016 and the motorist

Now that George Osborne has delivered his eighth Budget speech, what does it mean for the motorist?

There are a few key items to note that will impact on the company car sector and the wider motor industry as a whole. Company car benefit in kind tax rates up to the end of 2019/20 were already known but the Chancellor did not announce rates for 2020/21 as had been expected. That means that company car drivers will be selecting cars today which they could still be driving in 2020/21 without any knowledge as to what their benefit-in-kind tax bills will be.

However, the small print of the Budget documents revealed that the already announced company car benefit-in-kind tax increases in 2019/20 will raise an additional £315 million for HM Treasury and that increases due in 2020/21 will raise a further £320 million. That suggests that HM Revenue and Customs knows what the rates will be in 2020/21, but has yet to announce them, although it has confirmed that the three percentage point differential between diesel cars and petrol cars will be retained until April 2021.

At Budget 2013, the government committed to review the company car tax incentives for ultra-low emission vehicles in light of market developments at Budget 2016. The Chancellor has now announced that the government has decided to continue to base company car tax on the CO2 emissions from 2020/21.

It will now consult on reform of the bands for ultra-low emission vehicles (below 75 g/km of CO2) to refocus incentives on the cleanest cars. That suggests that rather than a single rate of tax for cars with emissions of 0-50 g/km and for those with emissions of 51-75 g/km as currently there could be a series of graduated tax thresholds.

As announced in last year’s post-general election summer Budget, VED for cars first registered from April 1, 2017 is to change. First year rates of VED will vary according to the CO2 emissions of the vehicle. A flat standard rate of £140 will apply in all subsequent years, except for zero-emission cars for which the standard rate will be £0. Cars with a list price above £40,000 will attract a supplement of £310 on the standard rate for the first five years in which the standard rate is paid. All cars first registered before April 1, 2017 will remain in the current VED system, which will not change.

Fuel duty will be frozen again in 2016/17, saving the typical motorist £75 a year and £270 a year to a small business with a van. By the end of 2016/17 fuel duty will have been frozen for six years. Insurance Premium Tax was increased from 6 per cent to 9.5 per cent in November 2015 and it will rise from October 1, 2016 by a further 0.5 per cent to 10 per cent impacting on vehicle insurance and roadside assistance. The money raised is specifically earmarked to be spent on improving flood defences.

The government says it is making the biggest investment in transport infrastructure in generations and is increasing capital investment in the transport network by 50 per cent over this Parliament compared to the last, investing £61 billion. The government’s long-term approach to improving England’s motorways and major roads is marked in the Budget with the launch of its second Roads Investment Strategy, which will determine the investment plans for the period from 2020/21 to 2024/25.

The Budget also saw the allocation of the £50 million Pothole Action Fund for England in 2016/17, enabling local authorities to fill nearly a million potholes. The government will also provide a further £130 million to repair roads and bridges damaged by Storms Desmond and Eva.

Pushing forward with plans to establish the UK as a global centre for excellence in connected and autonomous vehicles, the government will conduct trials of driverless cars on the strategic road network by 2017, hold consultations this summer on sweeping away regulatory barriers within this Parliament to enable autonomous vehicles on England’s major roads and establish a £15 million ‘connected corridor’ from London to Dover to enable vehicles to communicate wirelessly with infrastructure and potentially other vehicles.

The government has also confirmed that the long-awaited trial of comparative fuel price signs on the M5 between Bristol and Exeter will start this spring to drive fuel price competition and help motorists save money.

Aston Martin and Red Bull Racing team up for new Hypercar

Aston Martin and F1 team Red Bull Racing have announced a partnership to develop a new Aston Martin hypercar.

Codenamed Project ‘AM-RB 001’, Red Bull Racing’s Chief Technical Officer Adrian Newey is key to the agreement following years of speculation as to when the widely regarded most successful Formula One designer of all time may help design a road car.

The new hypercar is described as ‘ground-breaking’ and will represent the ‘ultimate blend of cutting edge F1 technology with Aston Martin’s sports car design’. The new partnership unites some of the world’s best ‘aerodynamicists, composite experts and manufacturing masters’.

Aston Martin CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: “Formula One offers the ultimate global stage to build wider awareness of the Aston Martin brand. However, this partnership will deliver even more than that when the hypercar that Aston Martin and Adrian Newey are in the process of developing hits the road. These are exciting times for Aston Martin and arriving hot on the heels of our DB11 launch earlier this month, this new partnership underlines that our brand really is racing again.”

Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner said of the new partnership: “This is a very exciting project for everyone at Red Bull Racing. Through this Innovation Partnership the iconic Aston Martin logo will return to Grand Prix racing for the first time since 1960, and Red Bull Advanced Technologies, led by Adrian, will be harnessing our Formula One DNA to produce the ultimate of all road cars. It’s an incredible project which also realises a dream and vision long held by Adrian to design a road car. We are very much looking forward to what I’m certain will be a successful partnership.”

Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman said: “We are in the process of developing a hypercar that combines the latest in aerodynamics from F1 and the stunning design language of an Aston Martin sports car. The opportunity to collaborate with Adrian and Red Bull Advanced Technologies will be a fascinating experience for everyone involved. Unconstrained by F1 regulations, we have a unique chance to create a car in its most efficient form that will represent the ultimate fusion of art and technology.”

Having an illustrious Formula One career spanning nearly 30 years, and as the designer of ten World Championship winning Formula One cars, the partnership represents a new challenge for Red Bull Racing’s Adrian Newey.

“From the age of six I have had two goals in life – to be involved in the design of racing cars, and to be involved in the design of a super car.” Newey commented. “Whilst the former ambition went on to form my career to date, the latter has always bubbled away, resulting in countless sketches and doodles over the years. The opportunity to now develop and realise those ideas whilst working with Marek and his colleagues from Aston Martin is tremendously exciting. It allows us to translate the technology we have developed in F1 into a new arena.”

To celebrate the partnership, the RB12s F1 race cars will carry the Aston Martin wings logo throughout the 2016 season, making their debut at this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne.