Subaru beats official CO2 ratings in real world driving test

Subaru has beat its official CO2 ratings in real world driving.

Amid the recent controversy surrounding manufacturer claims on official mpg figures,  Subaru has been named one of the top car manufacturers for ‘real world’ fuel efficiency following independent testing. Subaru ranked second best among all brands for honest fuel economy claims in the tests carried out to establish how efficient cars are under normal driving compared to their official fuel consumption figures.

The programme, which took place over two years and saw around 600 cars independently tested, was conducted by German car magazine Auto Motor und Sport. The magazine sought to establish how models from all major car manufacturers performed against their official fuel economy and emissions ratings, established under lab conditions as part of the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC) fuel efficiency tests that every new car must undergo.

Subaru ranked second place in the test, and was one of only five manufacturers to beat its official NEDC CO2 emissions rating, with testers recording a 6 per cent average improvement over the official emissions ratings for cars across the Subaru range.

The majority of other car manufacturers fell short of their official fuel economy figures, with shortfalls of up to 14.4 per cent in some instances.

The tests were conducted by Auto Motor und Sport on a set 171-mile (275km) test course, which incorporated country roads, motorways and congested city traffic.

New Toyota RAV4 arrives in UK

The new Toyota RAV4 has arrived in UK.

The first hybrid RAV4 joins Petrol and diesel-powered versions from mid-January, with Toyota’s compact SUV debuting a new 2.0-litre D-4D diesel engine and an improved 2.0-litre petrol unit.

The new four-cylinder diesel unit, matched to a six-speed manual gearbox, produces 141bhp and 320Nm of torque, giving the front-wheel drive RAV4 combined cycle fuel economy from 60.1mpg with carbon emissions from 123g/km.

The 149bhp 2.0-litre Valvematic petrol engine comes with CVT automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Its benchmark performance figures have been improved to 152g/km and 43.5mpg for combined cycle CO2 output and fuel economy.

The new model includes detailed changes to its front and rear styling, new headlight and rear lamp clusters and new 17- and 18-inch alloy wheel designs.

In the cabin, Toyota says it has responded to customer feedback, improving the ‘sensory quality’, improving the ambient lighting design, adding new storage points and tidying up the layout of the area around the gear shift. There is now clearer presentation of information to the driver using a new 4.2-inch colour multi-information display, together with the seven-inch touchscreen that gives access to the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system.

On-the-road prices start at £23,695 for Active 2.0 D-4D front-wheel drive.

Hyundai confirms new IONIQ eco-car

Hyundai confirms new IONIQ eco-car

Hyundai has announced a new eco-friendly compact car, due for launch in 2016, will be called the IONIQ.

The car will be available with electric, plug-in petrol/electric hybrid, or petrol/electric hybrid powertrain - the first car from any manufacturer to offer these three powertrain options in a single body type. The IONIQ will combine 'class-leading fuel efficiency with a fun, responsive drive and attractive design, a unique mix not yet achieved by a hybrid vehicle' says Hyundai.

The new car's name references elements of its creation (with 'ion' representing an electrically-charged atom) and is based on an 'exclusive' new platform, made specifically for the car's multi-powertrain options. The chassis is optimised to deliver 'responsive handling' while remaining efficient in each of its three powertrain configurations.

In its fully-electric (EV) form, the IONIQ is powered by a high capacity, ultra-efficient lithium ion battery. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version combines a fuel-efficient energy with battery power obtained by charging the car with electricity, boosting its range while cutting its emissions. Finally, the hybrid (HEV) utilises the petrol engine and motion of the car to charge the on-board battery, which returns enhanced efficiency by supplementing the engine's power.

Woong-Chul Yang, Head of Hyundai Motor R&D Center said, "Hyundai Motor has a heritage of building innovative, fuel-efficient vehicles, so we are proud to advance our eco-friendly car line-up with the introduction of IONIQ. Our vision for future mobility focuses on choice, with a variety of powertrain options to suit customers' varied lifestyles, without compromising on design or driving enjoyment. IONIQ embodies Hyundai Motor's vision to shift the automotive paradigm and future mobility; IONIQ is the fruit of our efforts to become the leader in the global green car market."

Following its world premiere in Korea in January, the IONIQ is due to be shown at the Geneva Motor Show, followed by the New York Auto Show, both in March 2016.

SsangYong adds 4x4 to Tivoli

SsangYong adds 4x4 to Tivoli

SsangYong adds 4x4 to Tivoli

SsangYong adds 4x4 to Tivoli

SsangYong adds 4x4 to Tivoli

SsangYong adds 4x4 to Tivoli

SsangYong adds 4x4 to Tivoli

SsangYong adds 4x4 to Tivoli

Suzuki has confirmed it is adding a more sporting and dynamic model to the Vitara line up.

The Vitara 'S' model is equipped with 17-inch Gloss black alloy wheels, a unique grille design, satin silver door mirrors, LED Headlamps with red projector covers, rear upper spoiler and black side body mouldings. On the inside the sporting theme continues with red interior stitching, red accents for air conditioning vent and instruments and aluminium alloy pedals.

The Vitara S is available in Bright Red (solid colour), Cool White Pearl metallic, Galactic Grey metallic, Cosmic Black metallic and is the first Suzuki to be powered by the new 'BOOSTERJET technology' engine which, in the Vitara, is a 140PS 1.4-litre Direct Injection turbocharged unit (DITC).

The newly developed BOOSTERJET engine features improved fuel efficiency using a small displacement, high torque turbocharger. By controlling the wastegate valve, the system reduces pumping loss, thus achieving high levels of both power and fuel-efficiency - combined fuel consumption comes in at 52.3mpg for the manual transmission model. With a 0-62mph time of 10.2 seconds for both manual and automatic transmissions, the maximum speed where permitted is 124mph.

A six-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard with optimised gear ratios to help provide a good combination of performance and fuel economy. Additional measures include a shift lever counterweight to 'help provide a smooth, positive shift action'. A six-speed automatic transmission is available optionally.

CO2 emissions for the new S model with its standard ALLGRIP system and manual transmission is 127g/km and one gram higher for the optional automatic transmission. The ALLGRIP system is fitted as standard on the new S model and has four driver-selectable modes - Auto, Sport, Snow and Lock.

The new Suzuki Vitara S model goes on sale in the UK from January 2016, priced at £20,899 for manual and £22,249 for the automatic version.

Suzuki adds Vitara ’S’ model

Suzuki adds Vitara ’S’ model

Suzuki adds Vitara ’S’ model

Suzuki adds Vitara ’S’ model

Suzuki has confirmed it is adding a more sporting and dynamic model to the Vitara line up.

The Vitara 'S' model is equipped with 17-inch Gloss black alloy wheels, a unique grille design, satin silver door mirrors, LED Headlamps with red projector covers, rear upper spoiler and black side body mouldings. On the inside the sporting theme continues with red interior stitching, red accents for air conditioning vent and instruments and aluminium alloy pedals.

The Vitara S is available in Bright Red (solid colour), Cool White Pearl metallic, Galactic Grey metallic, Cosmic Black metallic and is the first Suzuki to be powered by the new 'BOOSTERJET technology' engine which, in the Vitara, is a 140PS 1.4-litre Direct Injection turbocharged unit (DITC).

The newly developed BOOSTERJET engine features improved fuel efficiency using a small displacement, high torque turbocharger. By controlling the wastegate valve, the system reduces pumping loss, thus achieving high levels of both power and fuel-efficiency - combined fuel consumption comes in at 52.3mpg for the manual transmission model. With a 0-62mph time of 10.2 seconds for both manual and automatic transmissions, the maximum speed where permitted is 124mph.

A six-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard with optimised gear ratios to help provide a good combination of performance and fuel economy. Additional measures include a shift lever counterweight to 'help provide a smooth, positive shift action'. A six-speed automatic transmission is available optionally.

CO2 emissions for the new S model with its standard ALLGRIP system and manual transmission is 127g/km and one gram higher for the optional automatic transmission. The ALLGRIP system is fitted as standard on the new S model and has four driver-selectable modes - Auto, Sport, Snow and Lock.

The new Suzuki Vitara S model goes on sale in the UK from January 2016, priced at £20,899 for manual and £22,249 for the automatic version.

MINI launches limited edition Countryman

MINI launches limited edition Countryman

MINI is launching a new Countryman Special Edition for the UK.

Developed by the MINI's Special Order programme, the Countryman Special Edition features exclusive Space Grey Metallic roof and mirror caps, teamed with 18" 5-Star Double Spoke alloy wheels in black and Absolute Black Metallic body paint.

Only 250 Countryman Special Edition models will be available for customers in the UK. The latest edition to the range comes with standard equipment including MINI Navigation System, Voice Control, MINI Connected, Enhanced Bluetooth with USB audio and multi-function steering wheel. Front Seat Heating, Automatic Air Conditioning and Xenon Headlights are also included as standard.

Inside, the Special Edition has been styled to match the exterior, with interior surfaces in Piano Black and leather upholstery in Gravity-Carbon Black.

Customers can choose between two model variants - the Cooper S ALL4 Countryman or the Cooper SD ALL4 Countryman in either manual or automatic transmissions. Both model options are paired with MINI's ALL4 all-wheel drive system which provides 'excellent traction and quickly reacts to changes in road conditions'.

The MINI Countryman Special Edition is available to order now.

First Bentley Bentayga rolls off production line

First Bentley Bentayga rolls off production line

First Bentley Bentayga rolls off production line

First Bentley Bentayga rolls off production line

The very first production Bentley Bentayga has left the assembly line in Crewe.

Four years on from the initial concept stage, Bentley's first SUV will now enter full production, with customers deliveries starting in January 2016. The first production Bentayga, finished in an Anthracite colour was handcrafted across 130 hours, and is set to join Bentley's Heritage Collection. During the assembly process, the car passed through a new bodystore, a new paint shop and a new assembly line, all part of a 'substantial investment' by Bentley.

Prime Minister David Cameron, commented: "I am delighted that the first Bentley Bentayga has rolled off the production line in Crewe. It marks the culmination of a period of exceptional hard work by Bentley and its dedicated workforce as they brought this remarkable new vehicle to market.

Wolfgang Durheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, said: "Bentley Bentayga will be the benchmark against which all other SUVs are measured, defining a new segment - the luxury SUV. This car is a celebration of UK manufacturing at its very best, not only reinforcing our commitment to industry in this country, job creation and significant investment, but to our home in Crewe".

The Bentayga represents an £800 million investment into the Crewe factory backed by £9.5 million from the Regional Growth Fund, creating hundreds of jobs for the area and secured the future of production onsite.

Michael Straughan, Bentley's Member of the Board for Manufacturing, addressed the company's 4,000-strong workforce as the car was driven from the final production stage. He said: "This is a proud moment for the entire company. It's been four years in the making and is a celebration of a sector-defining British handcrafted car."

Prices for the Bentley Bentayga are expected to start around the £160,000 mark.

Hyundai unveils 10th Anniversary Streetcar Mosaic

Hyundai unveils 10th Anniversary Streetcar Mosaic

Hyundai unveils 10th Anniversary Streetcar Mosaic

Hyundai unveils 10th Anniversary Streetcar Mosaic

Hyundai has completed a 50-day driving challenge in London called A Streetcar Named Hyundai.

The idea involved driving, photographing and filming every central London street within the 2092 miles detailed in the famous Cabbie 'Knowledge'. Involving 127 participants, the challenge was created by London 2012's Ordnance Survey team to mark the 10-year anniversary of 'Hyundai Motor UK' and was completed in the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell, the world's first commercially available hydrogen fuel cell car.

London taxi driver and knowledge teacher of 30 years, Tony Norris said: "The Cabbie Knowledge is world renowned, unique to London and takes an average of 3-4 years to complete. But, this is the first time that the entire six-mile radius has been routed in this way as one continuous drive."

Hyundai created entirely new software to capture the drive, which controlled the camera shutter based on the car's speed, distance travelled and angle of travel to frame the entire journey photographically. The camera took pictures every 6-7 metres delivering 503,919 images - that's 207,000 MB of data. The special ix35 was designed to capture over half a million photos throughout the journey with the images used to create a 6m x 2m mosaic, a digital continuous image of all London's streets as well as a 200.5 second time lapse video to mark the UK company's 2005 heritage.

The final mosaic image depicts Oxford Street, which was voted as the most iconic street in London, and will go on display at City Hall in March 2016, as part of London's Hydrogen Week.

Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy Matthew Pencharz said: "Energy-efficient transport like these hydrogen fuel cell cars are key to helping improve the capital's air quality and reduce carbon emissions. I'm pleased that Hyundai's project has produced such an interesting portrait of our city with their new hydrogen technology."

Tony Whitehorn, Hyundai Motor UK's President and CEO commented: "We're incredibly proud of how far Hyundai has come in the UK in the short space of 10 years. During this time our brand has been completely transformed through innovation, design and technology - all of which encapsulate the Streetcar Named Hyundai challenge. We are delighted with the results."

Volvo XC90 R-Design revealed

Volvo has added an XC90 R-Design model to its range.

Described as 'the sportiest XC90 to date', Volvo's new seven-seat XC90 R-Design showcases a range of new design features and equipment updates. The R-Design SUV runs on 20-inch alloy wheels and comes with a 12.3-inch active TFT driver's information display, Drive Mode Settings and Adjustable Steering Force. This allows the driver to choose between different settings for the engine, transmission, steering and the optional air suspension.

The R-Design's sporty exterior includes silver-effect door mirrors, a black mesh front grille and tinted rear windows. Inside, there are leather/nubuck sports seats, and a perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel complete with gearshift paddles. A powered front passenger seat with memory function joins sports pedals, black headlining and upgraded interior lighting. A leather-clad remote key fob is also included, as part of the R-Design's package.

This is on top of the standard spec for the entry-level XC90 Momentum models, which includes items such as a nine-inch touch screen control system, Sensus Navigation, two-zone climate control with Volvo's CleanZone air quality system and LED headlights.

Nick Connor, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK, said: "The launch of the XC90 R-Design makes our premium seven-seat SUV even more distinctive and dynamic than before. Its sportier looks certainly make it stand out on the road, and its extra equipment ensures that the interior is as luxurious as it is stunning."

The R-Design versions are available with the D5 diesel and T6 petrol Drive-E engines, and in T8 Twin Engine petrol-electric hybrid form. On sale now, prices start at £49,785 OTR.

608 Bentley Bentayga 'First Editions' revealed

608 Bentley Bentayga 'First Editions' revealed

608 Bentley Bentayga 'First Editions' revealed

608 Bentley Bentayga 'First Editions' revealed

608 Bentley Bentayga 'First Editions' revealed

608 Bentley Bentayga 'First Editions' revealed

608 Bentley Bentayga 'First Editions' revealed

608 Bentley Bentayga 'First Editions' revealed

Bentley has debuted its Bentayga First Edition SUVs to a select group of VIP customers in LA.

The exclusive limited edition SUV is restricted to just 608 cars globally, the number marking the Bentayga's metric power output of 608 PS (600 bhp / 447kW) and 900 Nm (663 lb. ft).

The luxurious specification features exclusive detailing and unique components including Union Jack badging, illuminated treadplates and 22" black painted and polished wheels. Only ten exterior colours are offered, 'highlighting the exclusivity of the model' says Bentley.

Inside there's 'Diamond within Diamond' quilting, bespoke ambient lighting, Union Jack fascia badging, unique contrast stitching and embroidered seats.

Built in Crewe, an all-new twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine is at the heart of the SUV. The 12-cylinder unit delivers a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph, making the Bentayga the world's most powerful and fastest SUV, according to Bentley.

Kevin Rose, Board Member for Sales and Marketing, Aftersales, said: "With the First Edition we have created the ultimate expression of the Bentayga's spirit. It is equipped with an array of striking features that celebrate both the pioneering nature of the Bentayga and its unique abilities."

Each of the First Edition customers will receive a unique Breitling watch to complement their new, luxury SUV. In tribute to the launch of the new Bentley, Breitling created three special-edition chronographs: the Emergency, which features an integrated dual frequency personal locator beacon; Cockpit B50 - with its electronic multifunction calibre; and the automatic Chronomat 38, which is designed for women.

These three Bentley Bentayga Edition models share several signature features: an officially chronometer-certified Breitling movement; an original design with an all-black case; a black mother-of-pearl dial; 'bronzetoned' hands matching the livery of the first Bentayga presented to the public, and a rubber strap matching certain key interior elements.

These chronographs will be available later as optional equipment for Bentayga customers.

Kia confirms new Niro hybrid

Kia confirms new Niro hybrid

Kia confirms new Niro hybrid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

Land Rover has unveiled the Range Rover Evoque Convertible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Renault Clio and Captur upgraded

Renault Clio and Captur upgraded

Renault Clio and Captur upgraded

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

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

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

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

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

Volvo adds XC90 performance upgrades

Volvo adds XC90 performance upgrades

Volvo adds XC90 performance upgrades

Volvo adds XC90 performance upgrades

Volvo adds XC90 performance upgrades

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

Mercedes unveils new GLS SUV

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

Full-scale Origami Nissan Juke

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hyundai Tucson scores 5-star safety rating

Hyundai Tucson scores 5-star safety rating

Hyundai Tucson scores 5-star safety rating

Hyundai Tucson scores 5-star safety rating

Euro NCAP has revealed the all-new Hyundai Tucson scored a maximum safety rating in recent tests.

The European car safety performance assessment programme also tested the Vauxhall Viva supermini and Mazda's MX-5 roadster, revealing that while the Tucson topped the latest results, the Viva and and MX-5 fail to reach the 5 stars.

The new generation compact SUV achieved high scores in all areas of assessment, and when compared to its predecessor tested in 2006, the new model showed a 'worthy evolution' in terms of safety all-round, and more specifically in safety assist. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) technology is offered as option on the Tucson but it was not included in the rating as the uptake is not estimated by Euro NCAP to be high enough.

The Vauxhall Viva was awarded four stars, resulting in a 'commendable' score for a car in this popular segment, yet the crash tests revealed the car's lesser-seen side. In the frontal offset test, the head bottomed out the airbag and in the side pole impact the chest was protected poorly. Chest protection offered to the rear small female passenger dummy in the latest full-width rigid barrier test was also weak while the driver slipped under the seatbelt, resulting in elevated risk at knee and femur injuries. Euro NCAP concluded that perhaps with better optimised restraint systems the Viva would have made a bigger impression.

The Mazda MX-5 also achieved a four star rating, as did the Audi TT tested earlier this year. The Mazda combined good all-round performance in crash tests with exceptional pedestrian protection thanks to the deployable bonnet fitted as standard. However, like for the TT, the fitment of the latest crash avoidance technology was felt to be unnecessary by Mazda for the fourth generation roadster. In particular the absence of AEB 'disappoints' says Euro NCAP as many similarly-priced cars in other segments offer this safety equipment at least as option.