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New car sales rise in January
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:12:00 GMT)
New car sales stabilised in January, with an increase of 0.03% compared with the same period in 2011.
A rise in private sales – up by 2.7% on January 2011 – helped to boost the market, while further growth in the fleet sector also buoyed sales.
Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) also revealed that demand for diesel cars continues to drive the market. Diesel power increased its market share to 53.7% in January, compared with 50.5% a year ago.
Registrations of alternatively fuelled vehicles were also on the up – recording a 17.6% increase. Such cars now account for 1.6% of the market.
Once again, the best-selling car was the Ford Fiesta, while four of the top 10 cars were superminis.
The SMMT cut its full-year forecast for 2012 to 1.92 million new registrations, a 1.1% fall on the 1.94 million total achieved in 2011. However, the organisation believes new, more-efficient products will help the market recover to sales of 1.98 million in 2013.
SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: '2012 is set to be an exciting year with record numbers of new models coming to market filled with innovative technology that will save the motorist fuel, enhance comfort and further increase levels of safety and security.’
Top 10 sellers: source SMMT
Pete Barden
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Kia Track'ster concept car unveiled
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:30:00 GMT)
This is the Kia Track'ster concept car, which will be unveiled at the Chicago motor show next week.
The Track'ster is the latest concept car to be based on the Soul.
Kia describes the Track'ster concept car as the 'ultimate sporting representation' of the Soul. The three-door Track'ster could eventually be added to a Soul range alongside the five-door model and a convertible version that's currently under evaluation.
Kia says there are no plans to put the Track'ster into production, but a US launch would make sense, with more than 100,000 Souls sold there in 2011.
New teaser shot released
Ahead of its debut at this week’s 2012 Chicago motor show, Kia has released the first image of its Track’ster concept car.
Pete Barden
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Nissan Invitation concept revealed
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:11:00 GMT)
This is the Nissan Invitation, a Geneva motor show concept car designed to preview a new small model from the Japanese manufacturer. The concept is a high-roofed, five-door model.
The company says it will be launched in the UK sometime in 2013, and that it will be sold alongside the Nissan Juke and Nissan Micra – in effect, making the Invitation a preview of the next-generation Nissan Note.
As such, the Invitation’s stance looks familiar – although its more pronounced surfacing on its flanks and the stronger shoulder line make it look more dramatic than the simple Note.
Nissan claims the production version of the car will use a lightweight platform, helping to improve its fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. It claims the greenest variant will dip beneath the 100g/km barrier, taking it into the tax-exempt Band A.
The company also says the concept features an Around View Monitor, the first time it has been seen on a vehicle of this size. It uses cameras to show the driver the full surroundings and is designed to make reversing and parking easier and safer.
The cabin images reveal extensive use of digital displays, including a central infotainment system and a sophisticated-looking ventilation control. These elements are likely to be toned down for the Note – traditionally one of the more keenly priced models in Nissan’s range – although the concept’s simple, uncluttered dashboard layout looks production-ready.
John McIlroy
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Honda reveals 'Earth Dream' engine
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:16:00 GMT)
Honda will reveal an ultra-efficient 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine at the Geneva motor show next month.
As part of the car maker's 'Earth Dreams' technology programme, the engine is the first of a new generation of powerplants that will first appear in the Honda Civic.
Honda says the 118bhp 1.6-litre engine is the lightest in its class, and will have sub-100g/km CO2 emissions, along with class-leading performance and economy.
Alongside the 'Earth Dreams' engine, Honda will also display a prototype European version of the its CR-V replacement. The new, more aggressive-looking car will succeed the current car in the autumn.
The car maker's NSX Concept will also be at the Geneva show, where it will make its European debut. It will also mark the first time that it gets NSX badging – it appeared at last month's Detroit motor show with Acura livery. It is expected to go on sale by 2015.
Two new Jazz derivatives will be on display, too: the Jazz Si – with sporty suspension and tweaked styling – and the Jazz 1.2 Idle Stop, which cuts CO2 by 3g/km compared with the standard 1.2 car.
Pete Barden
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Geneva 2012: Honda 'Earth Dream' engine
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:16:00 GMT)
Honda will reveal a new ultra-efficient 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine at the Geneva motor show next month.
As part of the car maker's 'Earth Dreams' technology programme, the engine is the first of a new generation of powerplants that will first appear in the Honda Civic.
Honda says the 118bhp 1.6-litre engine is the lightest in its class, and will have sub-100g/km CO2 emissions, along with class-leading performance and economy.
Alongside the 'Earth Dreams' engine, Honda will also display a prototype European version of the its CR-V replacement. The new, more aggressive-looking car will succeed the current car in the autumn.
The car maker's NSX Concept will also be at the Geneva show, where it will make its European debut. It will also mark the first time that it gets NSX badging – it appeared at last month's Detroit motor show with Acura livery. It is expected to go on sale by 2015.
Two new Jazz derivatives will be on display, too: the Jazz Si – with sporty suspension and tweaked styling – and the Jazz 1.2 Idle Stop, which cuts CO2 by 3g/km compared with the standard 1.2 car.
Pete Barden
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Land Rover reveals Range Rover specials
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:10:00 GMT)
Land Rover has marked 10 years of the current-generation Range Rover by revealing three new special editions of the luxury 4x4.
The Range Rover Westminster takes the place of the previous TDV8 Vogue and Vogue SE models. It will cost from £69,995 and will go on sale in March.
Upgrades include a special 'Noble' finish to the front grille and front side vents, a 'Titan' silver splitter bar and foglamp surrounds. It also gets new 20-inch alloys with unique Westminster badging.
There are special carpets and Grand Black trim, while an upgraded audio system, and heated and cooled seats are also included as standard.
The Westminster comes in a choice of seven exterior, and five interior, colours.
The 4.4 TDV8 Autobiography and 5.0 V8 Supercharged Autobiography special editions come with the Range Rover Design Pack, which comprises new front and rear bumpers, ‘Titan’ silver front grille and side vent and foglamp surrounds, along with integrated stainless steel tailpipes and sideskirts. The cars also get 20-inch alloys in Shadow Chrome.
Inside, the Autobiography cars get the Range Rover Seat Style Pack as standard. This brings rear seats with recline and lumbar adjustment, heating and cooling, and multi-adjustable aircraft-style headrests with wings for added support. The front passenger seat can also be pushed forward using the ‘front seat away’ function to improve rear legroom.
Autobiography models go on sale in March. Prices for the TDV8 version start from £84,295, with the Supercharged model at £86,895.
Pete Barden
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Seat Mii 5dr revealed
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT)
This is the Seat Mii 5dr – a more versatile version of the city car that's closely related to the Skoda Citigo and VW Up.
The three-door version of the Seat Mii goes on sale in May, while this five-door variant arrives in the winter.
Viewed from the side, the Seat Mii 5dr is almost identical to the VW Up 5dr and Skoda Citigo 5dr. It has the same front- and rear styling as the three-door Mii, and the same dimensions.
Volkswagen will charge a £375 premium for the Up 5dr, compared with the three-door model, so we’d expect a similar increase for the Mii 5dr. This means prices should start at around £7900.
Leo Wilkinson
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Our latest reviews: 06/02/12
(Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:17:00 GMT)
Read all of our latest car reviews here on whatcar.com. From all-new cars to the smallest tweak to an existing model, our road test team will evaluate and report.
This is where you can find all the whatcar.com test drives we've published over the past week.
You'll also be able to read all of our new nine-point reviews, too, along with any that have received major updates. Make this your one-stop guide to the latest model news.
If that's not enough, use the dropdown menu at the foot of this page to read the top 10 reviews in each category of car.Latest reviews Alfa Giulietta TCTThe Giulietta is available with a new TCT twin-clutch semi-automatic gearbox. Alfa Giulietta TCT review BMW Active Hybrid 5The Hybrid 5 is based on the 5 Series saloon, and is the first BMW hybrid in right-hand-drive form. BMW Active Hybrid 5 review Mercedes B-ClassWe take a test drive in Merc's new B-Class - a premium-priced rival to the Ford Focus and VW Golf. Mercedes B-Class review Mercedes SLK 250 CDIThe SLK 250 CDI shrugs off its comfortable tourer role to offer a credible rival for Audi's TT TDI. Mercedes SLK 250 CDI review Mini RoadsterFind out what we think of the Mini Roadster - a new soft-top version of the new Mini Coupe. Mini Roadster review New VW Golf prototypesWe drive prototypes of a Golf plug-in hybrid and the all-electric Golf Blue e-motion. VW Golf prototype review VW Polo ACTWe test the VW Polo ACT, which uses shut-off technology to help improve economy and cut CO2. VW Polo ACT review
Latest nine-point web reviews Chevrolet AveoA very respectable supermini, but can it trouble the best cars in this ultra-competitive class? Read all about it here. Chevrolet Aveo review Vauxhall Zafira TourerThe Vauxhall Zafira Tourer is a decent MPV, but is it as practical, refined and easy to live with as its best rivals? Vauxhall Zafira Tourer review
Our most-searched reviewsUse the dropdown menu, below, to view our most popular reviews in each category of car.
Pete Barden
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Our cars tested: weekly updates
(Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:20:00 GMT)
We put the What Car? fleet through the ultimate test - every day life.
We’re a varied bunch of people, and drive each other's cars regularly, so we find out what the cars on test are like from a wide range of perspectives.
Each week we update our reports, giving you the insider track on what these cars are like to own.
Simply click on the links below to get the latest on our cars.
Alfa Romeo Giulietta
Run by Tom Webster, Staff Writer
Alfa Romeo Giulietta on test
Audi A1
Run by Rosie McMahon, data editor
Audi A1 on test
BMW 5 Series Touring
Run by John McIlroy, magazine editor
BMW 5 Series Touring on test
Ford Focus
Run by Adele Donaghie, managing editor
Ford Focus
Honda CR-Z
Run By Steve Huntingford, new cars editor
Honda CR-Z on test
Hyundai i40 Tourer
Run by Stephen Hopkins, art editor
Hyundai i40 on test
Jaguar XF
Run by Euan Doig, group production editor
Jaguar XF on test
Lexus CT200h
Run by Iain Reid, web producer
Lexus CT200h on test
Kia Picanto
Run by Will Nightingale, road tester
Kia Picanto on test
Mercedes-Benz CLS
Run by Chas Hallett, editor-in-chief
Mercedes CLS on test
Mini Countryman
Run by Alex Newby, deputy editor
Mini Countryman on test
Mini Coupe
Run by Ivan Aistrop, content editor
Mini Coupe on test
Nissan Leaf
Nissan's electric Leaf is tested by What Car? staffers
Nissan Leaf on test
Peugeot 508 SW
What Car? publishing director, Andrew Golby, takes on the Peugeot 508 SW.
Peugeot 508 SW on test
Seat Alhambra
Run by John Bradshaw, chief photographer
Seat Alhambra on test
Vauxhall Astra GTC
Run by Emma Butcher, consumer editor
Vauxhall Astra on test
Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer
Run by Neil Williams, photographer
Vauxhall Astra Sport Tourer on test
Volkswagen Passat Estate
Run by Barnaby Jones, deputy production editor
Volkswagen Passat Estate on test
Used
Nissan Qashqai
Run by Rory White, used car editor
Nissan Qashqai on test
Our cars: previous reports
BMW Alpina D3
Audi A2 on test
Citroen DS3
Ford S-Max
Hyundai ix35
Infiniti M30d
Jaguar XJ
Mazda CX-7
Nissan Juke on test
Peugeot 3008
Range Rover on test
Renault Megane Renaultsport
Skoda Yeti
Volkswagen Golf
Volvo S60
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Toyota GT 86 prices revealed
(Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:10:00 GMT)
The Toyota GT 86 coupe will cost from £24,995.
The GT 86 is an eagerly anticipated two-door coupe – co-developed with Subaru – which will go on sale in the UK next summer. The Subaru version is called the BRZ.
The car is a traditional front-engined, rear-wheel-drive sportscar, powered by a new 2.0-litre flat-four boxer engine.
The GT 86 (pronounced eight six) develops 197bhp, which can blast it to a top speed of 145mph, with 60mph reached in around 7 seconds.
Full specification and pricing will be revealed closer to the car's on-sale. Deliveries start from June.
Iain Reid
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Mini Convertible Highgate unveiled
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 23:00:00 GMT)
The Mini Convertible Highgate – the car maker's latest London-themed special edition – has been unveiled.
The Mini Convertible Highgate comes with a ‘Chocolate’ paint scheme and a brown cloth roof as standard. A black or white metallic finish can be specified as an option, while black or brown bonnet stripes with blue edging finish the look.
The Mini Highgate also gets 17-inch alloys that are inspired by the Union Jack.
‘Highgate’ badging can be found on the side indicator surrounds, doorsills and the seat tags, while the interior gets leather seats in ‘Dark Truffle’ brown with light blue piping. Stainless steel pedals, alloy details and bespoke floor mats complete the upgrades.
The Highgate special edition is available with four engines: 120bhp Cooper and 181bhp Cooper S petrol models, and 110bhp Cooper D and 141bhp Cooper SD diesels.
Prices range from £21,080 for the Cooper to £25,830 for the automatic Cooper SD.
The Mini Convertible Highgate is available to order now.
Tom Webster
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New VW Golf prototype review
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT)
The 2013 Volkswagen Golf will be available with a range of sophisticated new powertrains, and we’ve driven two of them, in prototype form.
The Golf plug-in hybrid combines a petrol engine with an electric motor powered by batteries that can be recharged, to give a useful electric-only range.
The second prototype is the Golf Blue e-motion, which is an all-electric version of the Golf.
What are they like to drive? We drove versions of the future powertrains in current Golf models.
The Golf plug-in hybrid shows real promise. It’s able to travel for longer than most non-plug-in hybrids in electric-only mode, and is beautifully refined when it does so.
As you’d expect, the electric motor gives all of its considerable torque right from the word go, so performance is strong; and, when the petrol engine joins in, it does so very smoothly.
There’s still a lot of work to do on the car, but we can see from our very brief drive that, with the right development, this is the kind of car that could be a tough rival for the Chevrolet Volt and Vauxhall Ampera.
The electric Golf Blue e-motion is also a fine car that will provide a stern challenge to the best in class. Its performance is strong – at least on a par with the Nissan Leaf's – and the car is wonderfully smooth to drive: in many ways it's a perfect city car, but one that is just as at home on the open road, capable of decent pace in complete quiet.
What are they like inside? The Golf plug-in hybrid we drove was a development car. There are incongruous displays in the dashboard and a boot full of electrical kit that will be better concealed when the car finally goes into production.
The Golf e-motion, however, looks very much like a regular Golf – which is good news.
The interior has the same space and quality as any Golf, and you can only tell it’s electric by the fact that the dials and displays are unique to this model, while the boot floor is a little higher than a regular Golf’s to accommodate the batteries underneath.
Overall, though, you don’t lose much practicality for the sake of electric power.
Should I buy one? The all-new Golf goes on sale in early 2013.
The Blue e-motion version is likely to arrive in late 2013 or early 2014, while the plug-in hybrid model is due later in 2014.
The Golf Blue e-motion will be worth a look, because it’s certainly at least as good as a Nissan Leaf. There are the usual caveats that apply to any electric car – it has to fit into your lifestyle, with a range of less than 100 miles – but it’s one of the best.
Making a call on the Golf plug-in hybrid is pretty much impossible, given how Volkswagen still has to go in developing it. Nevertheless, we’ve seen enough already to know this is one space we’ll certainly be watching.
What Car? says…
VW Golf Blue e-motion
VW Golf plug-in hybrid
Andy Pringle
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All-new BMW 3 Series coming soon
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:44:00 GMT)
The all-new BMW 3 Series officially hits showrooms on February 11, so what should we expect from BMW's class-leading compact executive?
The new 3 Series is larger and more spacious than the current car, yet most models are lighter, quicker and more efficient than those they replace.
From launch there will two petrol versions: the four-cylinder 328i and the six-cylinder 335i.
There are standard and Efficient Dynamics versions of the 320d diesel. Both have the same power output (161bhp and 181bhp) as before: CO2 emissions for the standard model have dropped from 125 to 118g/km, while the Efficient Dynamics has the same 109g/km figure as before.
A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, while BMW’s latest eight-speed automatic gearbox is an option across the range. The new 'box cuts CO2 emissions for automatic versions by up to 16%.
In spring, three more four-cylinder, 2.0-litre models are due: the 320i petrol and the 316d and 318d diesels. In autumn BMW will launch a six-cylinder diesel model, four-wheel drive versions and a hybrid model called ActiveHybrid 3.
As well as the previous ES, SE and M Sport variants, there are Sport, Modern and Luxury trim levels. Where comparable, there are modest price increases over the outgoing car. The 316d ES is the entry point, at £24,880.
All-new BMW 3 Series – all you need to know
Detroit motor show 2012: BMW 3 Series
BMW 3 Series - all you need to know
All-new BMW 3 Series review
BMW to release videos of new 3 Series
BMW to release videos of new 3 Series
BMW to release videos of new 3 Series
New BMW 3 Series revealed
BMW 3 Series prices and spec
BMW 3 Series video
Watch the official BMW video promoting the new car.
Pete Barden
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VW Polo ACT review
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:35:00 GMT)
This is the Volkswagen Polo Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) model, which uses the VW Group’s cylinder shut-off technology to help improve fuel consumption and cut CO2 emissions under light engine loads.
We drove a prototype model, but a production version is due on sale later this year.
What’s it like to drive? The VW Polo ACT is impressively rounded. That’s because – apart from having a 138bhp version of VW’s 1.4 TSI petrol engine – it’s a standard Polo for much of the time. It drives, stops and steers every bit as well as the standard car – which is very well.
What's really clever about the Polo ACT, though, is that it's totally unnoticeable when two of its cylinders are shut down. The change from four- to two-cylinder operation – during periods of cruising, for example – and back again is completely imperceptible. If it wasn’t for the dashboard displaying a ‘two-cylinder mode’ message, you wouldn’t know anything out of the ordinary was occurring.
What’s it like inside? There’s nothing to distinguish the Polo ACT from any other model in the range, which means there’s the same excellent driving position, straightforward dashboard layout and high-quality materials you’ll find in any Polo.
Should I buy one? The Polo ACT is due to go on sale late in 2012. VW sources suggest that it’ll be a stand-alone model in the range. The 138bhp power output places it between the 1.2 TSI and GTI models, so a price of around £17,000 seems likely.
What Car? says…
Andy Pringle
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Citroen Berlingo Multispace unveiled
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:25:00 GMT)
The 2012 Citroen Berlingo Multispace 2012 has been unveiled. It gets a restyled front end, revised interior design and cleaner diesel engines.
Emissions for the car's 75bhp and 90bhp 1.6-litre diesels have been cut from 139g/km to 135g/km, while CO2 figures for the other diesels are unchanged. The most powerful diesel engine now has 115bhp rather than 110bhp.
Changes to the Berlingo Multispace’s styling are focused on the front of the car, with a wider grille and new ‘chevron’ badge and headlight lenses. Redesigned door mirror - which improve aerodynamics - complete the exterior revisions.
Two new colours join the range – Nocciola brown and Belle Ila Blue. A ‘Black Pack’ adds black trim on the bumpers, mirrors and rear numberplate surround.
Prices aren't expected to change hugely from the current car, which ranges from £12,795-£16,620. The updated Berlingo Multispace goes on sale on April 2.
Tom Webster
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Company car tax band changes explained
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:25:00 GMT)
The company car tax system changes on April 1, with four new bands to reflect the lower average CO2 emissions of many new cars.
Cars that are zero-rated for CO2 retain their exemption from company car tax, while those that emit 1-75g/km will continue to be taxed at 5%.
However, the current 76g-120g/km bracket is to be split into five sections.
The new company car tax bands are split as follows:
• 76-99g/km = 10%
• 100-104g/km = 11%
• 105-109g/km = 12%
• 110-114g/km = 13%
• 115-119g/km = 14%
The 3% surcharge for diesel cars remains, although no car will pay more than 35% tax.
This 35% top-level tax will apply to vehicles that emit more than 220g/km, down from the previous figure of 225g/km.
The changes are designed to reflect the fact that average CO2 emissions for new cars sold in the UK have fallen from 164.9g/km in 2007 to 138.1g/km in 2011.
Company car tax – how it's worked out
Company car tax is calculated using the price of the car, the CO2 emissions and the employee’s income-tax band.
A driver that pays 20% income tax and runs a VW Golf Bluemotion 1.6 TDI emitting 99g/km and costing £20,000 would calculate tax liability as follows:
99g/km = 10% company car tax
10% of £20,000 = £2000
20% of £2000 = £400
Total to pay: annual company car tax bill = £400, or £33.34 per month.
2012-2013 tax bands
Figures for diesel vehicles with 3% surcharge in brackets.
Zero emission vehicles – 0%
1-75g/km – 5%
76-99g/km – 10% (13%)
100-104g/km – 11% (14%)
105-109g/km – 12% (15%)
110-114g/km – 13% (16%)
115-119g/km – 14% (17%)
120-124g/km – 15% (18%)
125-129g/km – 16% (19%)
130-134g/km – 17% (20%)
135-139g/km – 18% (21%)
140-144g/km – 19% (22%)
145-149g/km – 20% (23%)
150-154g/km – 21% (24%)
155-159g/km – 22% (25%)
160-164g/km – 23% (26%)
165-169g/km – 24% (27%)
170-174g/km – 25% (28%)
175-179g/km – 26% (29%)
180-184g/km – 27% (30%)
185-189g/km – 28% (31%)
190-194g/km – 29% (32%)
195-199g/km – 30% (33%)
200-204g/km – 31% (34%)
205-209g/km – 32% (35%)
210-214g/km – 33% (35%)
215-219g/km – 34% (35%)
220g/km or more – 35% (35%)
Tom Webster
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Geneva motor show 2012: Fiat 500L
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:50:00 GMT)
The Fiat 500L has been unveiled, ahead of its public debut at the Geneva motor show in March.
The five-door model is based on the Fiat 500 city car and will be a rival for the Citroen C3 Picasso and Nissan Note.
The 500L is 59cm longer, 15cm wider and 17cm higher than the 500. Fiat hasn’t yet released any images of the car’s interior, but we’d expect some features to boost practicality, including plenty of storage areas and a versatile rear seat folding mechanism.
Fiat has confirmed that the 500L will be available with 0.9 Twinair and 1.4-litre petrol engines and a 1.3 diesel, but it hasn’t released any more technical information.
The 500L will go on sale in Europe in late 2012, and is likely to arrive in the UK in early 2013.
More information on the 500L will be revealed nearer to the Geneva motor show.
Leo Wilkinson
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Volkswagen gives hints of next Golf
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:28:00 GMT)
The next VW Golf will be safer, more spacious and better equipped than the current Golf.
Volkswagen gave its clearest pointer yet to what we can expect from the all-new Golf - which is due to go on sale in 2013 - at the launch of the new MQB platform. This will eventually underpin all Volkswagen models from the Polo to the Passat, as well as several other models from within the VW Group.
The first model on this new platform will be the new Audi A3, which is due to be unveiled at the Geneva motor show in March.
Using this platform, VW promises that its forthcoming cars will be better looking, more spacious, safer, lighter and more efficient.
By developing a new platform with several common components across all the models, VW has ensured that the cars are easier to build.
Also because the platform is easy to adapt, the cars can incorporate a wide variety of power sources, from conventional petrol and diesel engines to hybrids and all-electric powertrains.
Thanks to that same adaptability VW could also enter new market niches. As proof, they showed off the Cross Coupe, which was based on the Tiguan and unveiled at last year’s Tokyo motor show.
Through the new strategy, the position of the engines has been standardised across the range; and, because this is farther forward than in current models, VW says it can create better-looking cars with improved crash protection and more cabin space.
More economical
The cars will also be more economical, partly because the new engines are more efficient than previous units, and partly because the cars weigh less, thanks to the use of more lightweight components.
The company will also introduce the world’s first mass-market four-cylinder petrol engine with cylinder shut-off. At times of low load, the 1.4-litre unit automatically shuts down two cylinders to save fuel and reduce emissions.
See more: Audi A1 Sportback review
The engine line-up will also include two 1.2-litre units as well as the three-cylinder engines recently introduced on the Up.
Diesel engines include 1.6- and 2.0-litre units, and both are cleaner and more efficient than the old units.
To improve the way the cars drive, front-wheel-drive models such as the Golf will be available with a new VAQ (electronically controlled front-axle transverse differential) system, which is designed to eliminate torque steer.
Engineers also say that they will work to improve on the way the current Golf drives, sharpening its steering and making its brakes more responsive.
More technology
The new cars, including the Golf, will also benefit from technology that has previously been seen only in more upmarket models. This will include fatigue detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and a new system called multi-collision brakes.
This works by automatically applying the brakes after an initial collision in order to minimise any damage or injury in a secondary collision, and will be standard on the next Audi A3 and VW Golf.
Also available, will be the proactive occupant-protection system recently introduced on the VW Touareg. This works by automatically priming the safety systems to ensure they work at their most efficient in the event of an accident.
There will also be a new family of infotainment systems across the various models. In the case of Volkswagen cars such as the Golf, they will have an updated version of the current car’s touch-screen system.
The revisions will mean the touch-screen works with a gentler touch, while sensors will recognise when it is about to be touched, so that the screen changes immediately from display mode to interaction mode. It will also allow the user to ‘swipe’ across the screen, as on the latest tablets and smartphones.
Models from the other VW Group brands – Audi, Seat and Skoda for example - will use the same system, but with the user interface tailored to each brand. Audi, for instance, will continue with its four-button Quattrologic controls.
We expect the all-new Golf to go on sale in 2013. While this new strategy should make it cheaper to produce, we don’t expect it to be any cheaper to buy. Instead, we expect it to cost much the same, but to come with more technology and equipment.
Andy Pringle
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Geneva motor show 2012: Smart Fortwo
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:09:00 GMT)
The face-lifted Smart Fortwo will be revealed at the 2012 Geneva motor show in March.
A largely cosmetic revision – which was first previewed on the electric Smart Fortwo ED at last year’s Frankfurt motor show – will give the Fortwo a more purposeful look, with a larger radiator grille, integrated logo and newly designed front aprons. There are also LED daytime running lights, 'muscular' sideskirts and a modified rear diffuser.
There are also three new alloy wheel designs, and seven paint schemes available.
Interior revisions include higher quality leather and fabric trims, along with optional leather trim on the instrument panel.
The 2012 Fortwo will be offered in five trims – Pure, Pulse, Passion, Brabus and Brabus Xclusiv – but it's likely that UK buyers will get the option of just three: Pulse, Passion and Brabus.
Smart has left the engine line-up unchanged from the current car, giving buyers the choice of a 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit with 70bhp, 84bhp, or 110bhp in the Brabus version. There's also a 54bhp 0.8-litre diesel engine.
The 2012 Smart Fortwo will cost from £8546.
Pete Barden
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Euro NCAP's best-performing cars 2011
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:20:00 GMT)
Safety body Euro NCAP has revealed 2011's top-performing cars in its crash-test ratings.
Best by category
The following cars were named as category winners. They were all awarded a five-star crash-test rating, but also received high scores in each of Euro NCAP's four areas of assessment: adult protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and safety assist.
The top-achieving cars by category:
• Small 4×4 category: Audi Q3
• Supermini category: Chevrolet Aveo
• Small family category: Ford Focus
• Small MPV category: Mercedes-Benz B-Class
• Large family category: Volvo V60
Electric cars
Euro NCAP also carried out its first tests on electric cars. Electric cars are exposed to the same tests as conventionally powered counterparts, with additional attention paid to battery integrity after a crash.
The best-performing electric car tested was the Nissan Leaf, which was the first electric vehicle to receive the organisation's five-star overall rating.
Euro NCAP rewarded several car makers for safety technology that is not yet included in its rating scheme. The Ford Focus scored points for being offered with optional Active City Stop, Driver Alert Forward Alert and Lane Keeping Aid. The Mercedes B-Class and Volvo V60 were rewarded for Collision Prevention Assist and City Safety respectively; both are systems that brake the car automatically if a collision looks imminent.
The poorest result of the year was recorded by the Dascia Duster, which received a crash-test rating of just three stars.
Full Euro NCAP report
Read the full report for each category winner here: Audi Q3, Chevrolet Aveo, Ford Focus, Mercedes B-Class, Volvo V60.
More information Euro NCAP test can be found on at www.euroncap.com/home.aspx
Pete Barden
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Alfa Romeo Giulietta TCT review
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:41:00 GMT)
The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is the best car the manufacturer has produced in a long time, and it’s now available with a new TCT twin-clutch semi-automatic gearbox that gives it added appeal.
What’s it like inside? We tried the car with Alfa Romeo’s 1.4-litre petrol engine, which features a unique type of valve control and rapid-response turbocharging to boost power and flexibility.
Mated to the TCT gearbox, it pulls solidly and smoothly through the rev range, while the transmission seamlessly slots from one ratio to the next.
The TCT transmission is essentially the gearbox that was introduced in the Mito supermini, albeit with different ratios and upgraded software.
There’s also a new engine stop-start system to prevent the type of problems some Mito TCT owners experienced. In a nutshell, the Mito was so slow to restart that if you were sitting on a hill, you could easily find yourself rolling backwards when taking your foot off the brake to apply the accelerator.
Although the new stop-start system still isn’t especially quick, we experimented on several hills and the car showed no backward movement before pulling away.
Otherwise, the semi-auto Giulietta drives much like its manual sibling. It’s neither as comfortable as a VW Golf nor as athletic as a Ford Focus, but that Alfa Romeo petrol engine gives you a good deal more dash for your cash.
What’s it like inside? Pretty funky, really. The dashboard is attractively designed, with a row of neatly arranged toggle switches, and big rotary dials for the heating and ventilation controls.
Star billing goes to Alfa’s DNA rocker switch, which allows you to adjust the throttle responses, steering weighting and your desired level of stability control intervention.
The exterior styling has an impact on practicality, most notably when it comes to rear access and headroom. However, the Giulietta is still spacious enough to carry four adults in reasonable comfort, and it has a good-sized boot.
The TCT gearbox is available only with the more expensive Lusso and Veloce trims, so standard equipment includes dual-zone climate control, cruise control and Alfa’s Blue&Me hands-free system with voice recognition.
Veloce models add aluminium pedals, leather upholstery and sports suspension.
Should I buy one? The TCT gearbox is available with either the 168bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine or the 168bhp 2.0 diesel and costs £1350, plus an extra £260 if you want steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Even so, the TCT is well worth considering because it works well and will lower your fuel bills; the 1.4 petrol TCT averages 54.3 compared with the manual’s 48.7mpg, while the diesel manages 62.8mpg – up from 60.1mpg with the manual 'box.
There’s more good news if you’re a company car driver considering the diesel car. Emissions fall from 124g/km to 119g/km, meaning it’s taxed at 13% instead of 18%, although it will jump back up to 17% in April, when stricter tax bands are introduced.
Rivals:
Ford Focus
VW Golf
What Car? says…
Pete Tullin
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Government drops MoT frequency change
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:26:00 GMT)
The MoT test will remain at its current annual frequency, after the Government dropped plans to move the first test to four years and then to intervals of two years thereafter.
The Government set out plans to review the test amid fears that the original 1960s legislation was obsolete when applied to the advanced technology found in modern-day cars.
Transport secretary Justine Greening announced the Government's decision after figures from the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) revealed that more than 25% of vehicles tested in 2010-2011 had one or more defects missed or incorrectly assessed.
The data also showed that the roadworthiness of one in eight cars had been incorrectly assessed.
See Also: MoT system in crisis
Justine Greening said: 'Our garages are crucial to ensuring that Britain’s roads continue to be among the safest in the world. Most are doing good work, but the latest data shows that there is room for improvement.
'I want each motorist to be confident that a visit to the garage ends with their car repaired to a high standard by reputable mechanics rather than uncertainty about cost and the quality of service.'
A Government initiative will focus on the performance of MoT testing stations, while it will also help motorists spot 'clocked' vehicles by changing MoT certificates to include mileage data covering the car's previous three years.
By working with motoring organisations, the Government hopes to provide a user-generated review system of MoT testing stations.
Rory White
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Government decides to keep MoT frequency
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:26:00 GMT)
The MoT will remain an annual necessity for vehicles over three years old, following an announcement from the Department for Transport promoting transparency and value-for-money for motorists.
The government set out plans to review the MoT after fears that the original 1960s legislation didn’t apply to the advanced technology of cars today.
Transport secretary Justine Greening revealed the decision after considering figures from VOSA stating that more than quarter of vehicles tested in 2010-2011 had one or more defects missed or incorrectly assessed.
The data also showed that the roadworthiness of one in eight cars was also being incorrectly assessed.
See Also: MoT System in Crisis
Greening said: ‘Our garages are crucial to ensuring that Britain’s roads continue to be among the safest in the world. Most are doing good work but the latest data shows that there is room for improvement.
‘I want each motorist to be confident that a visit to the garage ends with their car repaired to a high standard by reputable mechanics rather than uncertainty about cost and the quality of service.’
The government initiative has very clear aims. Firstly to shine a light on the performance of MOT testing stations by releasing hitherto unpublished VOSA survey data. It will also help motorists to spot “clocked” second hand vehicles, by changing MOT certificates so that they carry the last three years’ mileage information.
By working with motoring organisations, it also aims to find out what problems motorists experience and enable them to share examples of good customer service - potentially in the manner of existing online hotel and restaurant review websites.
Rory White
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BMW Active Hybrid 5 review
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT)
The BMW Active Hybrid 5 is based on the 5 Series executive saloon, and is the first BMW hybrid to be offered in right-hand-drive form.
It combines a 54bhp electric motor with the turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol engine from the 535i, giving it a total of 335bhp and 332lb ft of torque.
At £46,860, the Active Hybrid 5 does carry a hefty £7920 premium over an SE-spec 535i. However, it comes slightly better equipped and averages 44.1mpg to the 535i's 34.9mpg.
What's it like to drive? At speeds of up to 37mph, the Active Hybrid 5 can run on electric power alone for almost 2.5 miles - as long as there are no inclines and you're very gentle with your throttle inputs.
Alternatively, put your foot down hard, and the electric motor assists the petrol engine, giving the car strong performance and plenty of overtaking punch.
The switch between propulsion modes is so smooth that you hardly even notice it.
What's more, if you programme your destination into the standard sat-nav system, the Active Hybrid 5 can factor in the topography along the route to help maximise efficiency. If it knows that you're approaching a downhill section where it will be able to recharge the batteries, for example, it will let the electric motor provide greater assistance beforehand. Clever.
Despite the added weight of its batteries, the Active Hybrid 5 also strikes an excellent balance between comfort and agility, although our car was equipped with BMW’s optional Variable Damper Control system; in our experience, 5 Series models with the standard suspension are nowhere near as good to drive.
It should also be noted that our test car was fitted with 18-inch wheels and performance tyres - an option that cuts fuel economy to 41.5mpg and pushes CO2 emissions up to 160g/km - whereas 17-inch wheels with low-rolling resistance rubber are standard.
Like all 5 Series models, the Active Hybrid 5 feels very stable at speed and is excellent at shutting out wind and road noise.
What's it like inside? Aside from a couple of readouts on the dashboard that show how the hybrid system is working, it looks like any other 5 Series when you climb inside.
The cabin is spacious and beautifully built, and most of the car's functions are controlled through BMW's user-friendly iDrive system.
The only significant difference is in the boot, where capacity drops by 145 litres because the battery pack that supplies the electric motor with power is positioned behind the rear seats. The 375 litres that you're left with is considerably less than you get in a 3 Series.
Should I buy one? The Active Hybrid 5 is a fine car, and one of the best hybrids around. However, it's still hard to argue a case for choosing it over a diesel executive saloon.
BMW's own 535d costs £2570 less to buy, plus it's faster, cleaner and more practical than the Active Hybrid 5, and averages an extra 8.2mpg.
Yes, the Hybrid 5 will cost you fractionally less in company car tax, but it's not enough to offset the higher fuel bills.
Rivals:
BMW 535d
Lexus GS
What Car? says
Steven Huntingford
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Geneva motor show 2012: Ford B-Max
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:01:00 GMT)
The Ford B-Max has been revealed, ahead of its public debut at the Geneva motor show 2012.
The B-Max compact MPV was revealed as a concept car at the Geneva motor show 2011. The production version is all but identical, with the addition of door handles, an extra quarterlight and different light lenses and front grille trim the only noticeable changes.
The B-Max is based on the same platform as the Fiesta, but has a taller, longer body that provides greater practicality. Unusually, the B-Max has sliding side doors and no central pillar, to provide easy access to the rear seats.
Extra strengthening in the door itself, in the floor and through the roof compensates for the lack of a B-pillar. Ford is confident the B-Max will achieve a full five-star Euro NCAP crash rating, despite the lack of central pillars: 'We wouldn't have done it otherwise,' said designer Stefan Lamm.
Ford’s new three-cylinder 1.0 Ecoboost engine will be available for the B-Max. In the Focus, this engine gives CO2 emissions as low as 109g/km, so it should be at least as efficient in the B-Max. Diesel engines from the Fiesta range will also be available.
The B-Max goes on sale in September. Prices are likely to start at around £13,000, in line with key rivals' such as the Citroen C3 Picasso, Nissan Note and Vauxhall Meriva.
Leo Wilkinson
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