Vauxhall Mokka facelift adds X appeal

Vauxhall's facelifted Mokka X will debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show next month.

Incorporating cues from Vauxhall's new design philosophy, the new model is the first to introduce the "X" segment identifier for future Vauxhall SUV and crossover vehicles.

The Mokka X's refreshed interior and exterior styling is the work of a design team lead by Brit Mark Adams. A new front treatment includes a wing-shaped horizontal grille and the sharp double-wing design LED daytime running lights. The bumper features new sculpted surfaces, with fewer plastic inserts, while at the rear there's another double wing signature highlighted in the tail lamps, with LED technology an option. 

On the inside, there's a completely new dashboard inspired by the Astra's, with a new instrument panel organised around more horizontally shaped elements. The centre stack has been redeveloped around the seven- and eight-inch touchscreens of the new generation infotainment systems. There are fewer buttons, since more functions are now accessible via the touchscreen.

The engine line-up now includes the 1.4-litre Direct Injection Turbo (152PS) petrol unit which first appeared in the all-new Astra. With a six-speed automatic transmission, adaptive all-wheel drive and start/stop, it delivers 42.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 154g/km. 

The new Mokka X will be available from launch with the personal connectivity and service assistant OnStar and two versions of the new generation IntelliLink infotainment system, while LED Adaptive Forward Lighting headlamps replace the previous BiXenon AFL.

With nearly 100,000 sold in the UK since its launch in 2012, the Mokka SUV has been a big winner for Vauxhall. The new version will reach UK showrooms late this year.

Kia confirms pricing for new Sportage

Kia has announced pricing and specification for the fourth-generation of its new Sportage crossover.

There are 18 variants on offer priced from £17,995 on the road and for the first time, GT-Line versions are added to the range, starting at £24,350. The flagship of the range is a luxurious First Edition model, priced at £31,645.

The new Sportage brings advances in fuel efficiency, comfort, connectivity, convenience and safety. The styling has been subtly modernised and Kia says that every model benefits from "a more premium look and feel to the interior".

There are now four engines and three transmissions with the introduction of a 1.6-litre T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) unit and a 7DCT (seven-speed dual-clutch automatic) gearbox, both of which are reserved exclusively for GT-Line. They join re-engineered 1.6-litre GDi petrol and 1.7- and 2.0-litre turbodiesel power units with improved fuel economy and CO2 reductions of up to 29g/km, which means lower company car tax for business users.

The six trim lines are badged 1, 2, 3, 4, GT-Line and First Edition. All versions powered by the 1.6-litre GDi and 1.7-litre CRDi engines are front-wheel drive, while those powered by the 1.6-litre T-GDi unit and the two 2.0-litre CRDi diesels have all-wheel drive. Four-wheel-drive versions are distinguished by the 'KX' prefix in the model designation - except for GT-Line and First Edition versions

Kia's latest offering slots into the compact SUV/crossover sector of the market, which is expected to grow from 9.4 per cent of the total in Europe in 2015 to 10.2 per cent by 2018, with total sales for the sector predicted at 1.6 million. 

The outgoing Sportage was the best-selling Kia in the UK, claiming close to 29 per cent of the company's sales.

The new car comes with a seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty, subject to certain wear and tear conditions. It is also available with Kia's Care-3 and Care-3 Plus servicing packages, offering retail customers fixed-cost servicing for three or five years.

The new Kia Sportage is on sale from February 5, 2016.

Skoda previews new VisionS ahead of Geneva debut

Skoda has released teaser images of a new SUV concept - the VisionS.

Hinting at how a future Skoda SUV could look, the new concept is set to be revealed at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show. Over recent years Skoda has completely renewed its model range and says the next phase will involve broadening the range of models in the SUV segment.

Skoda’s new design language was unveiled in 2014 with the VisionC design study, and this now extends to the SUV segment with the VisionS (‘S’ stands for SUV) showing how how an SUV with three rows of seats, larger than the Yeti model, could look. On the inside a large interior offers ‘generous space’ for six occupants thanks to a total length of 4.70 metres.

The VisionS features design lines and edges described as ‘clear, precise and sharp’. At the front the bonnet has contours flowing towards the brands logo. The wide grille and four tapered, high-set LED headlights characterise the face of the show car, emphasising the vehicle’s SUV character. ‘Crystalline’ elements in the vertical struts in the grille and on the logo are Skoda’s tribute to the Czech art of crystal-glass design.

The side view features a ‘sharp tornado line’ spanning the entire length of the car. Angular wheel arches emphasise the off-road character and the upper-shoulder contour forms a deep groove over the sills. The quickly sloping roofline with the long spoiler and tapered rear ‘visually accelerate’ the show car further.

At the rear, a strong diffuser insert bordering the large exhaust pipes gives the SUV a powerful stance. The Skoda logo and shallow rear lights with dynamically cut crystalline housings sit just beneath the low rear window, while Skoda’s characteristic C-arm, beginning at the rear lights, runs into the flat reflectors in the bumper.

The Geneva Motor Show runs from 3-13 March.

Jeep reveals Renegade ‘Night Eagle’ edition

Jeep has added a new limited edition Renegade ‘Night Eagle’ model, which goes on sale today.

Following the larger Cherokee Night Eagle edition, which was launched in the UK last November, the new Renegade version is also based on the ‘Longitude’ mid-range level, but adds unique 17-inch black alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, satin grey Jeep badges and unique Night Eagle badge, coloured roof bars and side mirrors, and satin grey grille rings on a black front grille.

The new Night Eagle is limited to just 350 examples for the UK, and of these, only 160 will be available in the unique Volcano Sand matt paint finish, which complements the two other available colours: Carbon Black and Alpine White.

On the inside, the special edition features exclusive seats in bark brown fabric with electric lumbar support for the driver, leather wrapped steering wheel, dual zone climate control, DAB UConnect radio with 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth and satnav, and cruise control. A limited number of options are also available to further enhance the Night Eagle including electric panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, and regular size spare tyre.

Power comes from a choice of MultiJet II diesel engines, both combined with Jeep’s six-speed manual transmission: the 1.6-litre 120hp with two-wheel drive, or the 2.0-litre 140hp unit, driving all four wheels. This gives the car a top speed of 111 mph (113 mph 2.0-litre 4WD) and 0-62 mph acceleration in 10.2 seconds (9.5 seconds) while returning up to 64.2 mpg (55.4 mpg) fuel economy on the combined cycle.

"Full of style, loaded with equipment and designed to enhance Renegade’s already strong appeal, the new Night Eagle version is an attractive proposition for buyers," says Damien Dally, head of brand, Jeep UK. "Sporting and agile on-road and rugged and capable off it, this limited edition newcomer fits perfectly into Renegade’s highly successful family.”

The Jeep Renegade Night Eagle costs £21,595 OTR for the 1.6 MultiJet II 120hp 2WD, and £24,095 OTR for the 2.0 MultiJet II 140hp 4WD.

Nissan develops X-Trail bobsleigh

Nissan has drawn on the design and technology of its X-Trail SUV to transform a bobsleigh into a sleek seven-seater.

The inaugural run of the world’s first seven-seater bobsleigh was held at the historic Olympic track in Innsbruck, Austria - piloted by British Olympic medallist Sean Olsson.

Nissan worked with bobsleigh experts to transform a traditional four-man sled into the seven-seater, capable of reaching speeds of over 60mph pulling a G-force of 4.5G. The bobsleigh mimics the Nissan X-Trail’s design, with a ‘distinctive front aspect, headlamps and seven-seater option’. It gives passengers a 360-degree, bird’s-eye view to capture all of the action - identical to the X-Trail’s Around View Monitor system.

Darryl Scriven, Design Manager Nissan Design Europe (NDE), teamed up with expert bobsled manufacturer Diego Menardi and sport expert Ian Richardson to morph car design with Olympic aerodynamics. Scriven said: “We wanted to give the opportunity to experience first-hand the adventurous nature of our crossover segment through the thrill and excitement of Olympic bobsleighing.

Nissan Design Europe took inspiration from the shape and character of our X-Trail to create the X-Trail Bobsleigh, which was handcrafted by Diego Menardi at his workshop in Cortina. The outcome mimics the fresh ideas and technologies from the brand's ground-breaking crossover models.”

The seven-seater was developed using sketches and computer-aided design (CAD). The detail on the bobsleigh nose was crafted to express the X-Trail’s V-motion grille and capture the sculpture of the hood character lines. This work was complemented by Diego Menardi’s structural lengthening of the cabin to accommodate seven passengers.

All-new Kia Sportage

Kia has confirmed its new Kia Sportage compact SUV is set to go on sale during Q1 2016.

The five-door, five-seater compact crossover features a choice of diesel and petrol four-cylinder engines driving either the front or front and rear wheels, via six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or seven-speed double-clutch transmission – depending on model. For the first time, a new ‘GT Line’ specification is available to Sportage customers offering ‘greater visual and dynamic appeal’.

The new Sportage’s front end features the biggest change to the car’s design over the outgoing car, with Kia’s ‘tiger-nose’ grille and the car’s headlamps separated for the new model. The headlamps are now positioned higher, sweeping back along the outer edges of a ‘sharply-detailed bonnet’. A lower, wider grille – enlarged to support greater engine cooling – adds more volume to the lower half of the Sportage’s face. GT Line models develop the exterior look further with ‘ice-cube’ LED fog lamps, inspired by those found on the high-powered cee’d GT, and aluminium-effect skid plates.

At the rear, the new Sportage features more horizontal forms and features lines, with smooth bodywork on the tailgate. Inspired by the 2013 Kia Provo concept, slim combination lamps running along a horizontal parallel are joined together by a strip that runs the width of the rear, while the turn signals and reversing lights are separate, located lower down. The GT Line adds dual exhaust pipes and metal-effect rear underbody diffuser for a sportier appearance.

Available with a choice of 16-, 17- or 19-inch alloy wheel designs, the GT Line specification comes with a unique 19-inch wheel option as standard.

The fourth-generation model carries over many of the engines found in the current vehicle, with most benefitting from a ‘broad range of modifications’ to improve fuel efficiency, NVH and power delivery. A new 1.6-litre T-GDI (turbo gasoline direct injection) is also available for the first time on the Sportage, exclusively for GT Line buyers, offering a combination of 'lively performance and high fuel economy'.

The ‘Gamma’ 1.6-litre T-GDI engine is based on the same unit powering the Kia cee’d GT and pro_cee’d GT, producing 177 ps – and peak 265 Nm torque. The brand’s latest 1.6-litre T-GDI engine, producing 132 ps and 160.8 Nm torque, is carried over directly from the third-generation Sportage.

The new model will continue to offer the 115 ps 1.7-litre CRDi diesel engine, and a ‘significantly’ upgraded 2.0-litre ‘R’ power unit. This 2.0-litre turbodiesel is available with two power outputs – 136 ps with 373 Nm torque, and 185 ps with 400 Nm. Both high- and lower-powered versions of the 2.0-litre ‘R’ diesel are available both on the standard Sportage and with the GT Line specification. An all-new seven-speed double-clutch transmission (DCT) also features, recently launched in the enhanced Kia cee’d and available exclusively on models equipped with the new 177 ps 1.6-litre T-GDI engine. The DCT is capable of handling the higher torque outputs of the turbocharged engine. The range also continues to be offered with a choice of six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

On the inside, Kia says an all-new interior represents ‘one of the most significant improvements’ over the third-generation Sportage. A wide, driver-oriented dashboard with a simple modern design blends metalwork with soft-touch materials. The fourth-generation model has an increased exterior and interior dimensions - with the most significant change to the Sportage’s dimensions is a 30 mm growth in its wheelbase. Passenger space has increased, with headroom rising for front and rear passengers respectively, while maximum legroom has expanded by 19 mm. Boot space has expanded from 465 litres to 503 litres, made more practical by a dual-height luggage floor, allowing taller items to fit into the boot and still remain hidden by the tonneau cover.

The 2016 Sportage is fitted as standard with a large number of airbags, further improving passive safety for occupants, with airbags for driver and front passenger, first row side airbags, and first and second row curtain airbags. The SUV scored a maximum possible five-star safety rating in the Euro NCAP crash performance tests.

The new model can be specified with up-to-date active hazard-avoidance technologies. Available systems will include: Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and High Beam Assist (HBA) to name a few. Buyers can choose between 7.0- or 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment and satellite navigation systems, each supporting the addition of DAB digital radio as well as a new wireless charger for mobile devices, the first for any car in the C-SUV segment according to Kia.

Depending on market, other new available features will include: a rear-view parking camera with dynamic parking lines, a Smart Power Tailgate, which opens the tailgate automatically when the key is ‘sensed’ in close proximity to the tailgate; Dynamic Bending Headlamps, which sweep the road ahead in line with the steering wheel for greater visibility and improved safety at night; and a new Smart Welcome function, which turns on interior and door handle lamps and unfolds the door mirrors once the smart key fob is located within 1.3-1.7 metres of the door handle.

The new Kia Sportage will go on sale across Europe in Q1 of 2016 with prices yet to be confirmed.

Nissan confirms upgrades to 2016 Qashqai range

Nissan has confirmed a series of changes to the Qashqai line-up for 2016. 

To further enhance the model within the crossover segment and align the grade line-up with other vehicles in the Nissan range, trim changes, new option packs and equipment upgrades have been added.

The introduction of the N-Connecta grade will be a direct replacement for the existing n-tec and n-tec+ model versions, with both grades closed to ordering as supply runs out. Pricing and model specification remain unchanged. To simplify the range further, Acenta Premium will be closed to ordering once supply runs out. The Visa, Acenta and Tekna trim levels remain unchanged.

All DiG-T 163 versions (N-Connecta and Tekna trims) will gain multi-link rear suspension as standard with no price increase. This upgrade brings greater levels of ride comfort and refinement to the DiG-T 163 powertrain. DiG-T 163 variants will also benefit from an increased fuel tank capacity from 55 to 65 litres, offering a longer range between fill-ups. Pricing, fuel consumption and performance figures remain unchanged.

In addition to the N-Connecta grade change, an increased number of option packs will be offered across the Qashqai range which add a 'greater level of customer choice and premium personalisation'. These include a Smart Vision Pack (£495) which features Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Emergency Braking, Front and Rear Parking Sensors and Anti Dazzle Rear View Mirror. A Premium Pack can also be specified (£500) which features 18” Alloy Wheels, Electric Folding Mirrors & Privacy Glass while the Comfort Pack (£550) features Panoramic Glass Roof with one-touch shade and Roof Rails.

The Tech Pack (£750) includes NissanConnect 7” touch-screen Navigation system, CD, Aux-in, Bluetooth music streaming, USB and DAB Radio, Smartphone Apps, Colour Rear View Camera. Further options range from the addition of a Panoramic Glass Roof with one-touch shade at £400 to Sports Alcantara and grey leather interior with dark headlining at £495.

Volvo XC90 is Euro NCAP Best in Class 2015

The Volvo XC90 SUV has received the 2015 Euro NCAP Best in Class award for both Large Off-Road and Overall Performance categories.
 
The XC90 achieved overall top performance in the 2015 Euro NCAP ratings, scoring 100 per cent in the Safety Assist category, and 97 per cent in adult occupant protection.

Jan Ivarsson, Acting Director, Volvo Cars Safety Centre said; “We are always happy to receive further recognition for the work we do. The XC90 embodies everything that Volvo Cars stands for, and this is further proof of our continuing leadership in the field of both active and passive safety systems. Our vision is that by 2020 no-one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car. With the latest safety and semi-autonomous drive functionalities in the XC90, we are well on our way to fulfilling that vision.”
 
Sales of the XC90 continue to outpace production capacity, with 2015 seeing overall Volvo sales reach an all-time high, with more than 503,000 cars sold.

Kia reveals Telluride in Detroit

Kia has pulled the covers off its new Telluride SUV.

Revealed at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) the concept is a three-row, seven-passenger, luxury hybrid SUV featuring an upright shape, muscular stance, and state-of-the-art technology to care for its occupants. Based on an existing platform, the concept shows the brand’s interest in ‘potentially offering a premium SUV positioned above the current Sorento’.

The Telluride’s front doors and rear-hinged back doors swing open 90 degrees in opposing directions revealing four black-leather ‘captain’s seats’ that appear to float within the spacious cabin, in front of a folded third-row bench. The large cabin allows the middle seats to recline nearly flat and include large fold-away footrests for added comfort.

All four seats include a series of diamond-cut openings in the seatback, each embedded with Smart Sensors to capture a passenger’s vital health information. Once obtained, these vitals are displayed on the interior door panel screens, which then systematically synchronise with a Light Emitted Rejuvenation (LER) system. The LER system utilises a massive, wing-shaped LED panel mounted beneath the oversized sunroof that displays a pattern of therapeutic light to treat desynchronosis (jetlag) and improve the passengers’ energy levels.

Another new technology introduced in concept is Swipe Command – a thin, touch-sensitive, interactive band mounted to the second row centre console – which allows rear-seat passengers to quickly scroll and select desired media by simply swiping their hand. The selected media is then played either through the seven-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system, or via a set of portable Harman Kardon headphones that wirelessly charge when stowed in the console. Up front, a compartment in the centre stack allows for wireless mobile phone charging, and Kia’s first use of 3D-printed components add a distinct, modern design element to the dashboard, door panels, and steering wheel.

The Telluride’s ‘modern and muscular’ appearance is accentuated by flared wheel arches stretching around huge 22-inch five-spoke wheels. A front fascia incorporates a much larger version of Kia’s tiger nose grille, as well as quad-LED headlamps, pronounced horizontal LED indicator lights, and a polished-metal skid plate below the bumper.

The concept is powered by an ‘extremely efficient’ PHEV powertrain, activated by a finger-print push-button start. Utilising a 3.5-litre petrol direct injected (GDI) V6 engine and powerful electric motor, the SUV’s transverse-mounted powertrain combines to produce 400 horsepower (270 horsepower from V6 and 130 horsepower from the electric motor) while achieving more than 30mpg on the motorway. Power is sent to all four wheels via an advanced all-wheel drive system.

While there are currently no plans to bring the Telluride to production, Kia says it has a history of delivering production vehicles that bear strong resemblance to a preceding concept.

Kia teases first images of Niro Hybrid

Kia has unveiled the first official images of the Niro – an all-new Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) ahead of its world premiere next month.

The styling of the Niro was led by Kia’s design centres in California, USA and Namyang, Korea and incorporates the practicality of a compact SUV, with a sleek, aerodynamic body.

The teaser image reveals raised haunches and high-mounted LED taillights at the rear, with a relatively high shoulder line and shallow glasshouse creating a sporty profile.

The all-new Niro is the first model to be based on Kia’s new dedicated eco-car platform, and the HUV is expected to achieve a sub-90 g/km CO2 emissions rating (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle) thanks to its all-new downsized gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. 
The Niro HUV will be unveiled to the world for the first time at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show in February.

Audi unveils h-tron quattro concept in Detroit

Audi has pulled the covers off the h-tron quattro concept car at the NAIAS in Detroit 

Described as the next step towards the long-term Audi goal of CO2-neutral mobility, the SUV concept is powered by a fuel cell with an output of up to 110 kW backed up by a further on-demand power boost of 100 kW from a lightweight lithium-ion battery. 

Total system torque of 550 Nm equates to acceleration from 0-62 mph in under seven seconds and a 124 mph top speed.

It can be fully refuelled with hydrogen in around four minutes, and is then ready to drive for up to 372 miles (600 km).  An extra energy boost comes from the fitment of the world’s largest in-car solar roof, offering up to 320 watts output or additional range of up to 620 miles (1,000km) per year

The h‑tron quattro concept is closely related to the fully electric e‑tron quattro concept SUV which made its debut  at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. Both cars are based on the second-generation modular longitudinal platform (MLB evo), sharing a virtually identical floor assembly despite their different technology.

The h‑tron quattro concept presents the fifth generation of fuel cell technology from Audi and Volkswagen, using lighter materials to reduce weight and improve performance, responsiveness, service life and efficiency. 

With an efficiency rating in excess of 60 percent, Audi claims that the fuel cell now surpasses any combustion engine. The “stack”, comprising 330 individual cells, is housed in the forward structure.

The three hydrogen tanks are located beneath the passenger or luggage compartment. At a pressure of 700 bar, they store enough hydrogen for a range of up to 372 miles (600 km).  

Every tank is made up of several layers – the inner tank from gas-tight polyamide is wrapped in carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) and glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP). Like a car with a combustion engine, refueling takes about four minutes.
Offering seating for four adults and 500 liitres of luggage space, the five-door Audi h‑tron quattro concept is 4.88 metres long and 1.93 metres wide but its relatively low height of 1.54 metres contributes to a drag coefficient of 0.27. Aerodynamic elements down the flanks, on the underbody and at the rear improve airflow around the car at higher speeds, while cameras take the place of exterior mirrors, to improve efficiency still further. 

The h-tron’s headlights and tail lights utilise a combination of high-resolution Matrix laser technology and flat OLED (organic light emitting diode) elements which radiate a blue light to the sides and upwards. 

The concept also comes equipped with all the Audi’s piloted driving technologies – radar sensors, a new kind of video camera, ultrasonic sensors and a laser scanner. 

Audi says it will be taking this technology into production for the first time ever in 2017, with the next generation of its A8 Saloon. 

Volkswagen reveals Tiguan GTE Active Concept

Volkswagen has pulled the covers off its new Tiguan GTE Active Concept at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

Based on the redeveloped second generation of the Tiguan, the concept is described as a ‘progressive plug-in hybrid’ with maximum off-road power, the concept car combines ‘maximum efficiency’ with a powerful all-wheel drive system for a high level of off-road performance.

Powered by a petrol engine (TSI, 110 kW) and two electric motors (40 and 85 kW), all four wheels of the permanent all-wheel drive can be powered all- electrically with the TSI used to add more power. With up to 20 miles of zero emissions travel all-electrically, a fuel economy figure of 75mpg and a range of 580 miles in total is possible.

VW says the independent off-road design elements of the body are ‘technically feasible’ as options for production cars, with the concept debuting in Detroit featuring significantly more ground clearance and larger approach and departure angles. 

The interior includes a new infotainment system with 9.2- inch display and gesture control, while many different driving programs can be accessed via the new 4MOTION Active Control off-road switch.

The Detroit Auto Show runs from January 11 - 24.

Volvo and Microsoft help you talk to your car

Volvo has teamed up with Microsoft to launch a wearable-enabled voice-control system, which will allow owners to talk to their cars.

Vehicles may be instructed to perform tasks including setting the navigation, starting the heater, locking the doors, flashing the lights or sounding the horn via the Volvo on Call mobile app or the connected Microsoft Band 2 device.

The remote voice control service is described as another proof-point in Volvo's and Microsoft's ambition to jointly develop next-generation automotive technologies, following the announcement in November 2015 of their collaboration with the first automotive application of HoloLens technology. HoloLens is the world's first fully untethered holographic computer, which could be used in future to redefine how customers first encounter, explore and even buy their cars.

"Volvo is intent on making the car experience as easy and convenient as possible by utilising the latest technology in the most relevant and inspiring ways. With voice control, we are only just beginning to scratch the surface of what is possible with digital assistant functionalities," said Thomas Muller, Vice President Electrics/Electronics and E-Propulsion at Volvo Car Group.

Customers in Volvo on Call-enabled markets will be able to connect to their Volvo cars with voice control through Microsoft Band 2, from Spring 2016.

Ford adds Edge to its SUV line-up

Arriving in UK dealerships this summer, the all-new Edge tops off Ford's three-car SUV line-up.

Offering space for up to five passengers, 'segment-first technologies and refinement to rival premium competitors', claims Ford, it joins the medium-sized Ford Kuga and compact EcoSport models in what is the UK's fastest-growing vehicle sector.

Andy Barratt, chairman and managing director, Ford of Britain, said: "The introduction of the stylish Ford Edge SUV is another incredibly exciting moment for Ford and its dealers. Joining performance products like Mustang and Focus RS and new luxury products like Mondeo Vignale already in showrooms, the Edge makes the Ford product line-up for 2016 never stronger.

Available in Zetec, Titanium and Sport series, the Edge is equipped as standard with Ford intelligent all-wheel drive, Active Noise Control, Pedestrian Detection, Ford DAB Audio with SYNC 2 connectivity, privacy glass and 19in alloy wheels. It comes in a choice of 10 exterior colours and a wide range of interior leather trim options.

The Edge will be offered in the UK with a choice of 180PS 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine with six-speed manual transmission, or 210PS bi-turbo 2.0litre TDCi diesel with six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission. Both powertrains will deliver 48.7mpg fuel efficiency and 149g/km CO2 supported by Auto-Start-Stop technology (47.9mpg and 152g/km when fitted with 20in wheels).

Ford's SUV flagship will feature new technologies, including Adaptive Steering, Front Wide View Camera and Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection; a camera- and radar-based system that can operate at speeds from 5mph to 110mph to detect vehicles and people in the road ahead. 

Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is fitted as standard, switching between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive to adapt to changing road conditions. It measures how the wheels are gripping the road surface every 16 milliseconds and can send up to 100 per cent of engine torque to the front or rear wheels.

Acoustic windscreen glass and laminated glass for both front door windows, reduce the intrusion of wind noise while underbody panels and wheel-arch liners further minimise noise from both the wind and the road.

All Edge models are also equipped with Ford's Active Noise Control technology that detects unwanted engine noise in the cabin and cancels it out with opposing sound waves fed through the integrated sound system.

Available to order now, the all-new Ford Edge is priced from £29,995 on the road.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

New VW concept car set for CES 2016

Volkswagen will present a completely new concept car at next month's Consumer Electronics Show, CES, in Las Vegas.

The concept is said to illustrate the major changes that the car is set to go through in the next few years, marking the beginning of a new era of affordable long-distance electromobility. 

VW claims that innovative features will demonstrate the benefits to the customer that it will soon be able to deliver, thanks to the increasing interconnectedness of the motor car. 

Dr Herbert Diess, Chairman of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand, will be the keynote speaker on the evening before the show opens its doors. The main focus of his speech will be on the latest developments in electromobility, as well as the next generation of connectivity.

Volkswagen's display will also preview the latest developments in in-car infotainment that are close to market launch, including innovations from the Golf R Touch concept car.

The CES has long been considered a barometer of the key trends in digitalisation and consumer electronics, presenting the latest products and services to more than 150,000 trade visitors every year.

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