Porsche adds new entry level Macan

Porsche has extended its Macan line-up by adding a new entry-level model.

The 252 hp turbocharged two-litre engine in the Macan was specifically tailored for this model and is mated to a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission as standard. As a result, the entry-level Macan delivers a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds, and with the optional Sport Chrono-Package, this time is reduced to 6.5 seconds. The top speed is 142mph. In terms of fuel consumption, the Macan consumes between 31.7mpg to 39.2mpg according to the NEDC.

Many of the vehicle’s standard features are the same as those in the S models, for example, comfort seats with electric eight-way adjustment on the driver’s side, Alcantara middle seat panels, the latest generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM), lane-departure warning system and a powered tailgate. The new entry-level model only differs from other more powerful models in its details - exterior distinguishing characteristics include side window trim strips in black, also black brake callipers sit behind the 18-inch wheels and the exhaust system has two single tailpipes made of brushed stainless steel.

Sporty driving dynamics are ensured, says the German car maker, by the standard Porsche Traction Management PTM active all-wheel drive system. An air suspension system with levelling control including the PASM with adaptive dampers is available as an option.

Market launch for the new Porsche Macan will take place in June 2016 with prices expected to start around £43k OTR.

Audi reveals SQ7

Audi has unveiled the first S model to join its Q range with the 435PS SQ7 TDI.

Described by Audi as the world’s first series production car combining turbocharging with an electrically powered compressor, the new model ‘consigning turbo lag to history’. 

The SQ7 TDI also features electromechanical active roll stabilisation for ‘significantly’ reduced body roll. Powered by a redesigned V8 BiTDI engine that now develops 435 PS and 900 Nm (663.8 lb-ft) of torque, the electrically powered compressor (EPC) is placed in the air path downstream of the intercooler, close to the engine. Because the EPC does not require any exhaust-gas energy to develop boost, it can be used at any time, thus making it the solution for the traditional weaknesses of the classic exhaust-gas turbocharger, dispensing with any sign of turbo lag. The 0-62 sprint takes just 4.8 seconds while top speed is limited to 155mph. In the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the SQ7 TDI returns up to 38.2 mpg combined. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 194 g/km. 

"Following the launch of the successful SQ5, we are now also applying the concept of a diesel-engined S model to the Q7 model line. So equipped, the SQ7 TDI with a V8 TDI engine achieves the consumption figures of a six-cylinder. The new technology solution of the electric powered compressor in the SQ7 TDI is a world first in the competitive environment, with which Audi once again underscores its claim Vorsprung durch Technik,” said Dr. Stefan Knirsch, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Technical Development.

The 4.0 TDI in the Audi SQ7 TDI in mated to a redesigned eight-speed tiptronic which changes gears quickly and efficiently, and at high speeds allows coasting at idle. A self-locking centre differential is the heart of the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. It is described as compact, lightweight and interacts ‘very precisely’ with the suspension control system.

Electromechanical power steering, the Audi drive select driving dynamics system, Audi pre sense city, powered tailgate and adaptive air suspension with S-specific tuning are standard. Lightweight carbon fibre-ceramic discs will also become optionally available shortly after the market launch. Audi offers the SUV with 20-inch wheels on 285/45 tyres, with options up to 22 inches from quattro GmbH available soon after UK ordering opens.

Design wise, Audi DNA is clear with the sculpted Singleframe radiator grille, distinctively highlighted wheels and flared quattro-style blisters. The SQ7 TDI has a new radiator grille with an S-specific design at the bumpers and plenty of S body styling. Other distinguishing features are the side air inlets, the mirror housings and door inlays in standard aluminium. The exhaust system terminates in four rectangular tailpipes.

Passengers in the SQ7 TDI experience the largest interior in the segment, according to Audi. The second row has a three-section backrest with segments that can be folded down separately, while the final third row folds up and down electrically.

With its 12.3-inch display, the Audi virtual cockpit presents logically structured information in brilliant graphics. Driver ergonomics are excellent, and operation is intuitive. The driver chooses the display mode via the multifunction steering wheel. A head-up display is also available as an option.

The standard MMI navigation plus with MMI all-in-touch includes a large glass surface on the center tunnel console that provides the finger with haptic feedback after each click. The MMI logic allows for intuitive system operation and also understands terms from everyday speech.

Pricing has yet to be announced.

Volvo adds Polestar performance range

Volvo’s performance division Polestar has launched a range of performance upgrades.

Polestar Performance Parts are available for the Volvo S60, V40, V60 and XC60 models to begin with, including chassis parts, wheels, exhaust, interior and exterior details, and more.

"We have received strong feedback over a long period of time from customers all over the world regarding Polestar Performance Parts. We are delighted to be able to meet the demand, starting from today. This is a product improving on the already strong base of Volvo cars in terms of performance, handling and driving pleasure," said Niels Möller, Chief Operating Officer of Polestar.

"What we learned on the racing circuits with our colleagues at Cyan Racing is that championships are not won in a single lap. The secret of our success on the tracks is in creating balanced and precise cars that are predictable for the driver to control in all situations. Lessons learned on the tracks are transferred directly into the development of our road cars and performance products. The new range of Polestar Performance Parts is no exception – they are designed and developed with the very same philosophy," said Henrik Fries, R&D Director of Polestar.

Available as a complete package, including chassis parts, wheels and tyres, intake and exhaust, as well as exterior and interior parts, all of these components will together ‘create a more compelling driving experience’, especially in combination with the Polestar Performance Optimisation, and can be bought in separate packages as well.

All performance parts are developed and tested together with Volvo Cars to the same high standards as all other products with no impact on the Volvo factory warranty.

Available from participating Volvo dealers in April, prices have yet to be announced.

Toyota reveals C-HR crossover

Toyota’s new C-HR made its world debut at the 2016 Geneva motor show.

Giving the Japanese manufacturer a new presence in the crossover market, the C-HR is designed to stand out both within the Toyota line-up and in its segment. Toyota says the new C-HR represents President and CEO Akio Toyoda’s determination to allow greater stylistic freedom for eye-catching design.

As a mid-sized crossover the new model features a slim and sleek coupe-like cabin profile combined with a low body yet raised ground clearance similar to an SUV. At the front a slender upper grille flows into the aggressive wing extremities of the headlamp clusters and wraps fully around the front corners of the vehicle. The blacked out rocker panel towards the front and rear wheel, along with the shoulder axis that runs through to the front and rear emphasise the fast-looking “lift-up” feel of the thin body. The C-HR’s coupe-like styling is further enhanced by disguised rear door handles integrated within the C pillar, sweeping roofline into a large skeletal frame rear spoiler.

The new model is powered by a hybrid powertrain using a 1.8-litre hybrid system, which returns ‘a level of efficiency previously unseen in the crossover segment’ according to Toyota. With CO2 emissions of less than 90 g/km the hybrid powertrain is more efficient and lighter while offering 122 HP.

Alternatively, the Toyota C-HR is also available with the new 115 HP/85 kW 1.2 litre turbo engine. This will have a choice of 6-speed manual gearbox or a Continuously Variable automatic Transmission system, which is developed to meet expectations in response and direct feel for European customers familiar with manual and automatic gearboxes. The CVT is available in front-wheel or 4-wheel drive versions.

Toyota has yet to confirm the release date or pricing.

Volkswagen reveals T-Cross Breeze

Volkswagen has unveiled an all-new SUV concept in Geneva.

Called the T-Cross Breeze, it’s described as ‘a progressive SUV with the added appeal of a modern soft-top convertible’.

Aiming to be an affordable convertible, the T-Cross Breeze showcases ‘dynamic body proportions and crisp, short overhangs’ says VW. The four-seat T-Cross Breeze is equipped with an interactive cockpit and a next-generation operation concept, touch-sensitive surfaces and newly developed “by-wire” solutions replace conventional switches and buttons. The T-Cross Breeze is powered by a ‘highly efficient’ 1.0 litre TSI turbo petrol engine with an output of 81 kW/110 PS.

Dr Herbert Diess, Chairman of the Board of Management Volkswagen Brand said: “Our T-Cross Breeze is the first open-top SUV in its class and, at the same time, an affordable, cheeky cabriolet with a raised seating position that gives you a perfect view.” With this concept, Volkswagen underlines the fact that the brand is blazing a trail and making mobility more of an experience than ever before. 

Diess also confirmed: “At the moment the T-Cross Breeze is purely a concept, but we can well imagine putting such a convertible on the market as a production model. An affordable fun car that is also entirely suitable for everyday use. A genuine People’s Car.”

Mitsubishi eX Concept

Mitsubishi has shown a new eX Concept in Geneva.

Described as a vision for a compact SUV the eX Concept is powered by a next-generation EV system ‘which delivers superior environmental performance, torquey and smooth acceleration, and whisper-quiet performance’.

The car is driven by a Twin Motor 4WD and S-AWC integrated vehicle dynamics control systems which, in collaboration with its advanced connected car and active safety technologies provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities on motorways as well as autonomous parking.

The styling takes inspiration from the coupe elegance of a "shooting brake+2" but with 'compact SUV lines'. The front fascia takes the Mitsubishi ‘Dynamic Shield’ design concept a step forward designed to protect people and car alike, while the daytime running lamps and indicators are positioned on top of the wing to make them more visible to pedestrians.

The easy-access doors without center pillars provide effortless entry to and from the interior. The use of different colouring for the dash and door trim for the driver and passenger sides of the cockpit creates a ‘new-look ambience’. The use of a simple frame structure covered in softshell for the dashboard, instrument cluster and other major elements of the front compartment not only creates a sense of being light in weight visually - but serves to reduce the actual weight of the car.

The center console houses two portable batteries which can be used outside of the car to support those who enjoy pursuing active lifestyles while on the inside, an augmented reality windshield and Intelligent Display in the center of the dash linked to the driver's smartphone and the Cloud provides the driver with recommendations based on their interests and tastes.

The EV system powering the concept combines a second-generation high-capacity, high-performance battery with compact high-output electric motors front and rear. This configuration not only makes the EV system lighter and more efficient but with further weight reductions to the vehicle itself, resulting in a cruising range of 249 miles.

The Twin Motor 4WD system delivers power to the four wheels through the S-AWC integrated vehicle dynamics control system, which uses braking to control front wheel torque delivery and an electronically-controlled mechanical Active Yaw Control component which actively varies torque-split between the rear wheels.

The eX is capable of semi-autonomous operation on motorways when data from cameras and sensors is used to analyse the situation surrounding the vehicle and to automatically increase or decrease vehicle speed or to maintain its lane or to change lane. The car can autonomously find its own parking spot, park itself and be retrieved without any driver input.

Four-seater Volvo XC90 Excellence set for Shanghai debut

Volvo is to unveil a luxurious four-seat version of the XC90 at the Shanghai International Automobile Show. 

The XC90 Excellence has been designed, says Volvo, to offer customers a distinct and individual automotive experience that incorporates the latest Scandinavian innovations in design, refinement, comfort and style.

Based on Volvo’s all new XC90, it has just four seats compared to the original’s seven, creating additional space in the rear to accommodate two individual reclining rear seats complete with massage and ventilation functions as well as a retractable control touchscreen and folding tables.

There’s also a refrigerator with bottle and glass holders, a heating/cooling cup holder and handmade crystal glasses from leading Swedish glass design company, Orrefors. 

Additional cabin refinements include a special Bowers & Wilkins audio system with an extra (twentieth) speaker, passenger footrests, ambient lighting, illuminated storage and unique leather detailing, a luggage compartment dividing screen, extra sound insulation and Pirelli Noise Cancelling System tyres (PNCS).

An integrated ionic air cleaner in the CleanZone climate system works by positively charging electrons in airborne particles (dust or smoke for example) so they are removed from suspension in the cabin environment.

“This is our new flagship car,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President, Design. “We have created the ultimate luxury experience of Scandinavian design. Volvo has never launched a car like this before. This is the car that demonstrates what the name Volvo now means.”

The XC90 Excellence will be available globally later this year and via digital commerce in selected markets, but there are currently no plans to bring it to the UK.

Citroen C4 Cactus range gets Rip Curl Special Edition

Born from a collaboration between Citroen and surfing brand Rip Curl, the special edition C4 Cactus introduces Grip Control for improved traction, along with some new styling elements to emphasise its outdoor character.

Aside from being the only version of the Cactus to come with Grip Control, the Rip Curl also features special Mud and Snow tyres to help keep it moving on difficult surfaces (Goodyear 205/50 R17 89V – Vector 4Seasons tyres).

The Grip Control system provides the benefit of intelligent traction in ‘off-road’ mode. It uses an advanced anti-skid function built into the ESP computer, which manages the traction from the driven front wheels, and has various other modes for different types of terrain. The Grip Control selector, set in the centre of the dashboard, provides access to five operating modes.

Standard, Sand, Off-Road, Snow and ESP off. Each of the last 4 modes is operational up to a pre-set speed limit and then automatically reverts to ‘Standard’ mode.

Citroen says the new car’s increased traction promises a unique driving experience for both drivers and passengers alike, irrespective of the season or destination. 

On the style front, the Rip Curl's specific look includes: white door mirrors, white roof-bars and a white vertical strip on the wings blending geometric patterns and the Rip Curl logo. The rear quarter-lights feature the same pattern, applied horizontally, with the Rip Curl signature in white lettering. 

Front and rear aluminium-coloured protection plates are designed to reinforce its ‘adventurer’ identity alongside the standard Airbump panels along its flanks which protects the bodywork. 

Five body colours will be available to order at launch and Citroen plans to offer a new and unique blue body colour to further enhance the Rip Curl’s special edition status.

The cabin features orange detailing throughout: on the safety belts, the stitching on the floor mats and on the stereo’s loudspeakers.

Based on the C4 Cactus Flair trim, the Rip Curl’s standard equipment includes: rear parking sensors and camera, automatic climate control, automatic headlamps and front wipers, navigation system, 6-speaker MP3 audio system, cruise control/speed limiter, tinted windows and a panoramic glass roof, complete with thermal protection.

On sale in the first half of 2016, the C4 Cactus Rip Curl will be on display on the Citroen stand at the Geneva Motor Show from March 1, 2016.

Volkswagen set to unveil concept SUV at Geneva

Volkswagen has confirmed it will reveal a ‘fascinating concept car’ at the Geneva Motor Show.

VW says the new concept ‘brings mobility to a whole new level’ which will ‘enliven the compact car class as a trendy, affordable SUV’.

The concept can be seen as the beginning of a broad SUV offensive according to the German brand. VW describes it as depicting a new automotive attitude to life whilst remaining perfectly suited for everyday use. 

The concept is said to give a realistic perspective on a completely new model series and, at the same time, on the future production model.

Not much has been given away to date, but Volkswagen has confirmed the new concept include hardly any switches, creating a conceptual bridge to the BUDD-e, which was revealed at the CES in Las Vegas last month.

Ford reveals facelifted Kuga sport

Ford has revamped its Kuga SUV. 

Featuring a more ‘advanced, refined and sportier redesign’, the new Kuga will offer technologies and updates to make driving simpler, safer, more enjoyable and more affordable, say Ford. These include the new SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, innovative driver assistance technologies, an ergonomic and comfortable interior and a new 120PS 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine.

Ford’s Perpendicular Parking technology - that helps drivers park hands-free in spaces alongside other cars - joins an enhanced version of the Active City Stop collision avoidance system and Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System for optimised visibility in low light. Further technologies include Hands-Free Tailgate and Ford Intelligent All Wheel Drive.

Ford’s new SYNC 3 connectivity system delivers faster performance, simplified commands, and supports five additional languages. Simply by pushing a button and saying “I need a coffee,” “I need petrol,” and “I need to park,” drivers can locate nearby cafes, petrol stations or car parks, and find train stations, airports, and hotels. A new interface features larger, easier to operate buttons and enables pinch and swipe gestures for the first time.

The new Kuga features Ford’s latest design language for a bold and sporty look that is shared with the EcoSport compact SUV and all-new Edge large SUV. A large upper trapezoidal grille and a smaller lower grille are flanked by sleek new headlamps incorporating LED Daytime Running Lights, complemented by fog lamps.

Restyled taillights complete the sporty look, while a new range of 17- 18- and 19-inch alloy wheel designs also will be available in variety of finishes including Luster Nickel. One new colour, the vibrant shade Copper Pulse, will be offered throughout the range. A power-operated retractable tow bar automatically stores itself out of sight below the rear bumper when not in use, to retain the new Kuga’s sporty looks.

On the inside, Ford says the interior has been refined to offer a ‘more ergonomic, stylish and comfortable experience for occupants’. The steering wheel and air-conditioning controls are even more intuitive, and feature fewer and more easily distinguishable buttons and switches, ‘making the controls easier to recognise and navigate’. The steering wheel is also offered with heated leather to improve comfort in cold weather, while all automatic new Kuga models will feature paddle-shift controls that enable drivers to manually select gears while keeping their hands on the wheel.

A new 120PS 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine is introduced, offered with front-wheel drive, Ford says it is targeting a fuel efficiency improvement for the new engine of about 5 per cent to 64.2mpg and 115g/km CO2 while producing the same power.

Also available will be a 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine with 150PS in front-wheel drive and Ford Intelligent All Wheel Drive versions that achieve from 60.1mpg and 122g/km CO2; and a 180PS Intelligent All Wheel Drive version that delivers from 54.3mpg and 135g/km CO2.

Ford’s 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine in 120PS or 150PS front-wheel drive form achieves 45.6mpg and 143g/km CO2; and a 182PS Intelligent All Wheel Drive version delivers from 38.2mpg and 171g/km CO2.

Ford is launching the new Kuga and the larger Edge SUV this year, after introducing an updated EcoSport last year.

Maserati reveals Levante SUV

Maserati has unveiled its first ever SUV - the Levante - ahead of a Geneva Motor Show debut.

Completing the existing range of saloon and sports cars, the Levante’s ‘aggressive front’ introduces new tapered headlights separated into two elements, with the upper headlight unit connected to the radiator grille. Maserati's design signature is visible on the sides with the three iconic air vents on the front wings, the trapezoidal C-pillar with the “Saetta” logo and the large, frameless door windows. The rear is dominated by the tapered back window and streamlined shape, both typical of a high-performance sports car, says Maserati.

The chassis is designed to combine ‘outstanding on-road performance’ even on very low-grip surfaces with ‘an excellent off-road performance and ride’. All versions feature sophisticated electronic suspension with controlled damping and air springs, which can be set on several levels, “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive and 8-speed automatic transmission, specially calibrated for the brand's new SUV. The Levante will be powered by both petrol and diesel engines that are all Euro6-compliant.

Built at the Mirafiori plant in Turin; the first cars have already come off the assembly line with the launch planned for this spring in Europe, to be followed by the rest of the world later this year.

New Kia Niro set for European debut in Geneva

The all-new Kia Niro will make its European debut at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show.

The low-emissions hybrid crossover marks the development of Kia’s first dedicated eco-car platform. The Niro will offer the practicality of a spacious crossover, together with the high fuel efficiency of an advanced hybrid powertrain. Engineered from the ground up as a dedicated hybrid vehicle, the car’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.

While the Niro’s hybrid powertrain – made up of a 1.6-litre GDI petrol engine, lithium-ion polymer battery pack, 32 kW electric motor and six-speed double-clutch transmission – is under development, Kia says its engineers are targeting CO2 emissions of 89 g/km.

Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Europe, commented, “The Kia Niro will offer buyers a compelling blend of crossover practicality with the cool, modern styling for which Kia is famous, and an efficient new hybrid powertrain to keep running costs down. The Niro fills a gap in the market for a crossover with typically low hybrid emissions, and will appeal to a broad range of European buyers.”

With its aerodynamic, crossover-inspired silhouette, subtly sculptured surfaces and 'sharp, modern lines,' the Niro is still recognisable as a Kia. The new model bears the latest evolution of Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille, as well as the brand’s wide C-pillar and a series of other signature design cues.

With a relatively long bonnet, short overhangs, elevated headlamps and rising shoulder line, the Niro’s athletic crossover stance represents a shift away from other hybrid cars on the market today, says Kia. The SUV’s silhouette tapers slightly towards the rear of the vehicle, ending in a ‘subtle’ rear roof spoiler, elevated tail-lamps and a wide, squared-off rear bumper.

Designed principally for efficient aerodynamic performance, the car's body allows for a low drag coefficient of 0.29 Cd – making it more aerodynamic than many other hybrid rivals says Kia. Its relatively long wheelbase (2,700 mm) and short front and rear overhangs (870 and 785 mm, respectively) also ensure occupants enjoy ‘generous’ interior space.

The Niro occupies a new space within the brand’s model line-up in terms of its size - smaller overall than the all-new Kia Sportage, though occupying a larger footprint than the cee’d hatchback. Available with a choice of seven colours, and buyers can choose from a selection of 16- or 18-inch alloy wheel designs when it goes on sale during Q3 2016.

Prices have yet to be announced.

Skoda unveils VisionS

Skoda has revealed images of the new VisionS show car.
 
Hinting at a future SUV design language, the VisionS is influenced by Czech Cubism and the tradition of Bohemian crystal art with the contoured surfaces accentuated further by the Island-Green colour.

Based on the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB), this is Skoda’s first vehicle to feature six seats across three rows. The concept powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain with 165 kW (225 hp) and a 0-62mph time of 7.4 seconds.

The internal combustion engine is a 1.4 TSI with 115 kW (156 hp) and 250 Nm of torque. This works alongside an e-motor that provides 40 kW of 40 kW continuous power and 220 Nm peak torque. It is integrated into the six-speed DSG, which directs the power to the front wheels. A second electric motor with up to 85 kW and 270 Nm of torque drives the rear axle. 

The VisionS features large displays for vehicle and infotainment services for all passengers, who can connect to the network several ways from each seat in the vehicle.

The VisionS will be formally unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

SsangYong to launch XLV in Geneva

SsangYong will reveal a new extended Tivoli XLV at the Geneva Motor Show.

Providing more carrying capacity and practicality, the Tivoli XLV was shown as the XLV Air concept in Frankfurt last year, and following ‘extremely favourable feedback’ the company has decided put the car into production.

Sharing the same platform as the Tivoli, the XLV features a lengthened body from behind the C pillar, an increase of 235mm over the standard car, expanding the load capacity to 720 cubic litres of space. Meanwhile, the styling cues that distinguish Tivoli are retained. It will be offered with a choice of a Euro 6 compliant 1.6 litre petrol or 1.6 litre diesel engines, mated to the option of a 6-speed manual transmission or 6-speed Aisin automatic, two-wheel drive or four wheel drive. UK specification is yet to be determined.

SsangYong will also showcase a SIV-2 concept (Smart Interface Vehicle) midsize premium SUV at the show. As the next iteration on from the SIV-1 concept which was shown at Geneva in 2013, this takes a step further under the design concept of ‘Dynamic Motion’.

Based on SsangYong’s development theme of ‘Robust, Specialty, Premium’, this new concept pursues the emotional interface between the driver and car, and will evolve to become a key strategic model within the SsangYong range.

The SIV-2 is a mild hybrid, powered by a 1.5 litre direct injection turbocharged petrol engine combined with a 10kW electric motor-generator and a 500Wh lithium ion battery. This creates a 48V mild hybrid system which offers quiet and efficient driving, reduced CO2 emissions and silent running when idling and at slow speeds.

This eco-friendly concept features a lightweight body, a low centre of gravity and a chassis and suspension system that can be further developed to create alternative models with high efficiency powertrains such as HEV, PHEV and EV.

White is UK’s most popular new car colour

White has retained its position as the UK’s most popular new car colour for the third year running.

2016 Figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show demand for a white car growing 2.2 per cent to 564,393 units. Of the 2,635,518 new cars registered in 2015, 21.4 per cent were white, compared with less than 1 per cent a decade ago. The preference for white across most of the UK was not mirrored in the South East where more black cars were registered than white.

Blue cars also enjoyed a resurgence in demand, with more than one in six people choosing the colour. Blue used to be the nation’s first choice of car colour in the late 1990s and, after a period of falling popularity at the start of the century, it has now seen three years of continued growth in demand. 

Meanwhile, after eight years at the top between 2000 and 2008, silver continued its decline. It now makes up just over one in 10 new car registrations compared with its peak in 2004 when almost every third new car registered was silver. Overall, neutral tones continued to dominate, with black cars in second place after white and followed by grey, taking 19.4 per cent and 15.6 per cent of the market respectively.

But it wasn’t all black and white, with more buyers opting to stand out on the roads with brighter colours.

The number of people choosing mauve cars rose by approximately a third in 2015 (30 per cent) to 12,414, taking the colour into the top 10 for the first time. Demand for green cars grew by 31.2 per cent to 28,250 units to take its highest market share (1.07 per cent) for five years. Orange and yellow cars, meanwhile, also surged in popularity – up 25.7 per cent and 12.7 per cent respectively – with a total 30,187 people opting for the eye-catching colours. 

Nissan updates X-Trail and Pulsar

Nissan has confirmed a series of updates for its X-Trail and Pulsar range.

Until the end of March buyers of the X-Trail can upgrade from five to seven seats free of charge – a saving of £900. The deal is available to both Private and Business buyers and applies to all grades and engines of X-Trail, including 2WD and 4WD models.

Following the addition of N-Connecta to Juke and Qashqai, Nissan’s Pulsar is the latest model to carry the new trim grade. The N-Connecta grade on Pulsar will be a direct replacement for the existing n-tec model, which will close to ordering once supply runs out.

Nissan has also confirmed a new entry-level price for the Visia DIG-T 115 Manual of £13,995, representing a £2,000 customer saving over the previous price.

Both models are on sale now.

SEAT unveils Ateca SUV

SEAT has revealed its first ever SUV - the Ateca - in Barcelona. 

Deriving its name from a village in the west of Zaragoza, the Ateca is said to combine distinctive design, dynamic driving fun, urban versatility and compelling utility. 

Launching in the UK this September, it will be available with a choice of turbocharged TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines spanning from 115 PS to 190 PS, with either front-wheel or all-wheel-drive, mated to manual or dual-clutch DSG transmissions. 

An array of technology options extends from full-LED headlights through a series of assistance systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist, right through to a package of high-endinfotainment systems with eight-inch touchscreens and Full Link connectivity. 

At 4.36 metres in length, the Ateca offers seating for five and a boot capacity of 510 litres, or 485- in versions with all-wheel-drive.

“The SEAT Ateca is perfect for an urban lifestyle. It possesses stunning design and dynamics, and boasts compelling quality and utility. But above all, the Ateca exudes unmistakable character,” says Luca de Meo, President of SEAT, S.A. “Our first SUV marks the start of a new era for SEAT. The Ateca is a clear development of the Leon DNA and will drive forward the success of the range. SEAT is a brand on the move.”

Datsun GO-cross Concept debuts in Delhi

Nissan’s recently reborn Datsun brand is showcasing the GO-cross Concept in India at the Delhi Auto Expo 2016. 

The crossover concept is the brand’s vision for a potential Datsun GO/GO+ family expansion into high-growth SUV markets.

Datsun Executive Design Director Koji Nagano says: “Although it is a pure show car at the moment, the Datsun GO-cross Concept is designed to meet the needs and preferences of a new generation of drivers. They are young, ambitious, fun-loving people ready to take the next stop in their lives.” 

The brand is also displaying enhanced versions of the Datsun GO and Datsun GO+, equipped with accessories to meet the demands of customers who want a more personalised ride.

Nissan cars were marketed in the UK under the Datsun name until the early 1980s. There are currently no official plans to reintroduce the brand to the UK.

Mourinho keeps his cool as he masters ice driving

José Mourinho has been mastering the art of high speed drifting and ice driving on a 60km frozen lake at Jaguar Land Rover's extreme testing facility in Arjeplog, Sweden.

 The ex-Chelsea football manager was testing a high performance Jaguar F-PACE S prototype as part of an extreme driver training experience just 40 miles from the Arctic Circle.

In temperatures as low as -30 degrees, Mourinho's driving skills were tested to their extreme limit in the Jaguar F-PACE by Finnish professional driver, Tommi Karrinaho. 

Mourinho said: "The flying lap with Tommi sent my adrenaline soaring. It's something I've only ever experienced before when I have walked out in front of 80,000 football fans."

The three-time Premier League-winning manager is experiencing widespread interest about his future right now, but he was philosophical about his next move. 

"I have worked for as long as I can remember as a manager and this is now the second time I have stopped in 16 years. So it's not a drama, but for sure I will be back soon... I don't know where football will take me because in football you never know, but for sure as a family our home will still be in London." 

Customer deliveries for the new F-PACE are set to kick off in late spring 2016, and Mourinho, who already owns an F-TYPE Coupé, is among the first to have placed an order.

Jaguar will be rolling out the Ice Drive Experience to customers from all over the world in 2017.

New Citroen SpaceTourer to debut in Geneva

Citroen has confirmed its new SpaceTourer is set for a World Premiere at the Geneva Motor Show.

The SpaceTourer combines ‘comfort and practicality’ with dynamic performance and what Citroen calls ‘remarkable fuel efficiency’. Built on a new modular EMP2-based platform, a variant of the one used by the C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso, this provides more cabin space and boot volume.

The front design consists of a short horizontally-styled bonnet with large, high-set headlights. Vertical LED daytime running lights are integrated with the fog lamps. The positioning of the wheels, together with short overhangs, ensures ‘maximisation’ of the vehicle’s proportions and results in its spacious interior. Features such as hands-free sliding side doors and a rear window that opens fully are described as indicative of how practical the vehicle is, while 17-inch ‘Curve’ alloy wheels are also available.

There are new front and rear axles, which means the SpaceTourer is able to carry loads of up to 1,400kg. The platform's modular design allows for two wheelbases (2.92m and 3.27m) as well as two rear overhangs (0.80m and 1.15m). The combination allows for 3 body lengths which offer five, seven or eight seats: XS at 4.60m, with the shorter wheelbase, then the M at 4.95m and XL at 5.30m with the longer wheelbase. The boot space reaches a maximum of 2,932 litres for the XL version with 5 seats. The sliding seats sit on rails for optimal boot volume and added leg room.

The SpaceTourer Business is available in three lengths with five to nine seats. This version has professional passenger transport use in mind (such as hotel shuttles, taxis etc) and can be configured in terms of the number of seats and the equipment to create an entirely bespoke vehicle.

The people carrier features hands-free access, enabling motorists to open and close the side doors contact-free when both their hands are full. With a simple movement of the foot, under the corner of the rear bumper, the vehicle unlocks and the sliding side door on the driver’s side opens automatically. The rear window also opens for optimal boot loading or for easy access when the tailgate cannot be opened due to limited access behind the vehicle. The front of the cabin is also home to a lower glove box with an audio jack, 12V socket and a USB socket, while the upper glove box is lit and refrigerated.

The spacious and uncluttered interior has been designed for long-distance journeys and its multiple windows and large glass roof with blinds can be closed separately in two sections. Passengers in rows two and three benefit from independent, sliding and reclining seats with comfortable head rests and arm rests.

Available with five powertrains, all feature BlueHDi diesel engines, delivering as much as 55.4mpg with CO2 emissions of 133g/km for the XS length BlueHDi 115 S&S 6-speed manual.

Additionally, coinciding with the launch of the SpaceTourer, Citroen is joining forces with French pop group “HYPHEN HYPHEN” to unveil a bright, vibrant 4x4 concept version - the SpaceTourer HYPHEN. Amplifying the character of the production version, the SpaceTourer HYPHEN concept has bright, breezy, ‘go-anywhere looks that inspire thoughts of unlimited travel’.

The concept has a broader front bumper design, wheel arch trims and sill protectors inspired by the Aircross concept. All of these features are finished in a matt Dark Moondust colour that is amplified by red-orange highlights. With a higher ride-height than the production version, the concept runs on 19-inch diamond-cut matt black alloy wheels with red-orange detailing. To emphasise its all-terrain credentials, five elastomer straps are positioned on each tyre.

Onboard, every occupant enjoys ‘VIP treatment’ - each seat is given a unique colour scheme, repeating the shaded tones and graphic choices throughout the cabin.

The Geneva Motor Show runs from 3-13 March.