Volvo S60 Polestar launched

April 19, 2013, 1:09 pm

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The Volvo S60 Polestar is entering production. However, for now at least, it’ll only be available in Australia and just 100 examples are going to be built.

Power might be down on the 501 bhp (373 kW / 508 PS) of the original S60 Polestar Concept, but the showroom version’s tweaked six-cylinder turbocharged engine still produces a healthy 344 bhp (257 kW / 350 PS) with over 500 Nm (370 lb/ft) of torque.

That output is sent to a rear-biased Haldex all-wheel drive system via a specially modified six-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to launch control, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint is completed in just 4.9 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h).

To go with the upgraded powertrain, the chassis has also been completely reworked. Included in the specification are Öhlins two-way adjustable dampers, stiffer springs, stronger anti-roll bars, sturdier brakes and a carbon fibre-reinforced strut brace.

Visually, the look is subtle but effective. Along with the trademark blue paintwork, the S60 Polestar features a rear spoiler, rear diffuser, front splitter and 19” wheels that come shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres.

Deliveries are due to begin this June. Volvo is treating Australia as a test market, so sales success there could eventually lead to the S60 Polestar being offered in further territories. Knowing it has already been engineered for right-hand drive should be an encouraging sign for UK fans, at least.

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Lamborghini marks 50 years

April 20, 2013, 10:12 am

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Lamborghini is celebrating 50 years of car manufacturing by launching the limited edition Aventador LP 720-4 50° Anniversario.

As the name implies, power comes from a retuned 6,498 cc V12 engine producing 710 bhp (530 kW / 720 PS) instead of the usual 690 bhp (515 kW / 700 PS).

That’s enough to propel the all-wheel drive Aventador from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 2.9 seconds, before taking it on to a top speed of 217 mph (350 km/h).

Visually the 50° Anniversario is distinguished by its unique front- and rear-end styling, which incorporates larger air intakes, a more prominent front splitter, extra rear meshing to help keep the engine cool and a massive diffuser. The result isn’t particularly pretty, but Lamborghini reckons it improves high speed stability without increasing drag.

Just 100 examples of the Aventador LP 720-4 50° Anniversario are going to be produced, with each featuring a forged composite badge displaying the build number.

Buyers will be able to opt for a unique glistening paint finish called Giallo Maggio, which has been specially developed for this model. On the inside, the exclusive two-tone leather upholstery can be ordered in either black / yellow or black / brown colour schemes.

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Ford Escort Concept unveiled

April 21, 2013, 5:03 am

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The last European-spec Escort was so mediocre, Ford decided to call its successor Focus instead to help banish the memories. But now the Escort nameplate is set to return, although this time around it’ll be appearing on a new compact model for the Chinese market.

Revealed at the Auto Shanghai show, the Escort Concept is a traditional three-box saloon that Ford reckons will provide lots of interior space with plenty of technology.

A launch date for the production version has yet to be announced.

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Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupé

April 21, 2013, 12:45 pm

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Volkswagen has unveiled its CrossBlue Coupé concept at the Auto Shanghai show.

A potential alternative to models such as the BMW X6, the CrossBlue is a five-seat SUV based on Volkswagen’s Modularer Querbaukasten (MQB for short) transverse-engine component set. It’s actually longer and wider than the existing Touareg, but the CrossBlue is not as tall which results in distinctive low-profile proportions.

The concept is powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain that consists of a V6 direct-injection turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor for each axle. Combined, the system develops 409 bhp (305 kW / 415 PS) with 700 Nm (516 lb/ft) of torque. That output is sufficient for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 146 mph (235 km/h).

Perhaps more impressively, the CrossBlue achieves the magic 3.0 l/100km (94.1 mpg) fuel consumption figure on the combined cycle. What’s more, it can be run in pure electric mode for up to 20 miles (33 kilometres).

A number of other drive settings are also available. They include an off-road mode where the engine powers the front wheels, the rear electric motor propels the rear wheels and the front electric motor acts as a generator.

Officially, Volkswagen isn’t planning to put the CrossBlue Coupé in to production. However, that might ultimately depend on public reaction to the Shanghai concept.

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European-spec MG3 unveiled

April 22, 2013, 6:35 am

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The European-specification MG3 supermini has been revealed at the Auto Shanghai show.

Its styling doesn’t appear to be too different from the version that’s already offered in China. The principal changes are the redesigned bumpers, which incorporate ‘hockey stick’ LED daytime running lights, black mesh air intakes and a pseudo rear diffuser to give a sporty look.

Whether it delivers sporty pace remains to be seen though, because initially just one engine is going to be available. It’s a 103 bhp (77 kW / 105 PS) 1.5 litre petrol unit that comes connected to a five-speed manual gearbox, but so far no performance or efficiency figures have been released.

Arguably a lack of engine choice at launch harmed sales of MG’s other European model, the larger 6. An absence of a diesel alternative for the 3 might now put off a few more buyers, too.

MG is saying the target audience for the 3 is ‘young and style conscious buyers, wanting something that’s fun to drive and own’. So, following the lead of models such as the Mini, Fiat 500 and Vauxhall Adam, plenty of personalisation options are promised including body graphics and paint finishes.

What’s more, the MG3 has specially calibrated suspension settings that should deliver a decent blend of handling and ride on European roads.

Sales of the Birmingham-assembled MG3 begin in Europe later this year. Prices have yet to be announced.

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Smart forjeremy enters production

April 22, 2013, 2:08 pm

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When Smart first unveiled the outrageous forjeremy last November, it promised that a production version would be coming… and here it is. However, things have been toned down somewhat for the showroom model.

That might actually come as a disappointment to anyone who was captivated by the flamboyance of the original concept, which was created in collaboration with fashion designer Jeremy Scott.

Okay, those trademark rear wings probably had to be trimmed down and lose their illumination to satisfy various type approval regulations. But the tridion cell could have retained its chrome effect, instead of being covered in the duller ‘alubeam’ paint finish that Smart has now decided to use.

At least the seats and door panels are still trimmed in white diamond-stitched embossed leather, although the chrome cabin trim and white dashboard top have both unfortunately disappeared.

Even the name is less glitzy, because the car’s official title has morphed from ‘forjeremy’ in to the more prosaic ‘fortwo edition by Jeremy Scott’.

Smart is understandably planning to keep build volumes very low. Only a coupé variant is going to be offered, but buyers will have a choice of three powertrain options. In Germany, prices start at a considerable €33,333 including VAT:

101 bhp (75 kW / 102 PS) Brabus 999 cc three-cylinder turbo petrol engine	€33,333
73 bhp (55 kW / 74 PS) electric drive magneto-electric motor	€34,800
80 bhp (60 kW / 81 PS) Brabus electric drive magneto-electric motor	€40,600

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Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak tech specs

April 23, 2013, 11:00 am

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Peugeot has revealed more about the 208 T16 Pikes Peak that Sébastien Loeb will be driving at the Colorado event in June.

While the mid-rear engine layout has been inspired by the infamous 205 T16 Group B rally car from the 1980s, many of the components are derived from the more recent 908 endurance racer.

They include not only the 3.2 litre V6 bi-turbo engine, transmission and air intake, but also the huge rear wing that should generate plenty of downforce.

Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak. Scroll down for more images.

As suspected, the carbon fibre bodywork encloses a steel spaceframe chassis. It’s a combination that makes the 208 T16 extremely light and helps produce some very impressive acceleration figures.

2013 Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak - Technical Specifications
Engine
Type	Petrol V6 bi-turbo
Cubic capacity	3.2 litres
Valve gear	Four valves per cylinder
Power	863 bhp (644 kW / 875 PS)
Torque	883 Nm (650 lb/ft)
Transmission
Gearbox	Longitudinally-mounted six-speed sequential gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifters
Drive	Four-wheel drive
Performance
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	1.8 seconds
0-124 mph (200 km/h)	4.8 seconds
0-149 mph (240 km/h)	7.0 seconds
Top speed	149 mph (240 km/h)
Chassis
Spaceframe	Tubular steel; mid-rear mounted engine
Bodywork	Carbon fibre
Suspension	Double wishbones with pushrod / rocker arm actuation; torsion bar springs; pressurised dampers; front and rear anti-roll bars
Steering	Hydraulic power steering
Brakes	Hydraulic double circuit system; one-piece light alloy calipers; vented carbon discs front and rear
Wheels	18” x 13” magnesium alloy
Tyres	Michelin
Dimensions
Length	4,500 mm (14’ 9”)
Width	2,000 mm (6’ 7”)
Height	1,300 mm (4’ 3”)
Wheelbase	2,695 mm (8’ 10”)
Fuel tank capacity	40 litres (8.8 imp. gallons)
Weight	875 kg (1,929 lbs)

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Renault Captur UK prices

April 24, 2013, 4:11 am

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Renault has revealed UK prices and specifications for the Captur, its new B-segment crossover that’ll be a rival for models such as the Nissan Juke and Peugeot 2008.

The line-up offers a choice of three engines (all of which are turbocharged) and four trim grades. Prices start at £12,495, which undercuts the cheapest Juke by £500. All versions come with cruise control, electric windows front and rear, alloy wheels and a trip computer as standard.

Renault reckons the most popular variant should be the Dynamique MediaNav. It costs from £14,995 and features climate control, cornering lights, removable seat covers and a 7” integrated tablet with satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.

Renault dealers are going to be accepting Captur orders from the beginning of May.

Renault Captur - UK OTR Prices
Version	Engine	Price
Expression	0.9 litre petrol TCe 90 Stop & Start	£12,495
Expression	1.5 litre diesel dCi 90 Stop & Start	£13,895
Expression+	0.9 litre petrol TCe 90 Stop & Start	£14,495
Expression+	1.5 litre diesel dCi 90 Stop & Start	£15,895
Dynamique MediaNav	0.9 litre petrol TCe 90 Stop & Start	£14,995
Dynamique MediaNav	1.5 litre diesel dCi 90 Stop & Start	£16,395
Dynamique MediaNav	1.2 litre petrol TCe 120 Auto EDC	£17,195
Dynamique MediaNav	1.5 litre diesel dCi 90 Auto EDC	£17,395
Dynamique S MediaNav	0.9 litre petrol TCe 90 Stop & Start	£16,495
Dynamique S MediaNav	1.5 litre diesel dCi 90 Stop & Start	£17,895
Dynamique S MediaNav	1.2 litre petrol TCe 120 Auto EDC	£18,695
Dynamique S MediaNav	1.5 litre diesel dCi 90 Auto EDC	£18,895

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Toyota ME.WE concept

April 24, 2013, 12:56 pm

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Toyota has unveiled the ME.WE concept, which has been developed in collaboration with French architect Jean-Marie Massaud.

The brief was to design what Toyota is calling an ‘anti-crisis’ car. But that doesn’t mean the ME.WE would be useful to have in a riot or zombie apocalypse; rather, it’s supposed to tackle ‘contemporary human, economic and environmental challenges’.

So there’s no doubting the ambition, which actually involved examining how cars could be built differently while offering multi-use practicality, low running costs, opportunities for personalisation and minimal fripperies.

As a result, the ME.WE doesn’t feature a traditional steel monocoque body. Instead, polypropylene panels are attached to a tubular aluminium structure and bamboo is used for the cabin floor, all of which keeps the weight down to just 750 kg (1,653 lbs).

For extra practicality, the rail-mounted rear bench seat can be removed altogether or stowed beneath the front seats. Luggage can also be carried on the roof beneath a neoprene cover, plus the cargo load space can be extended to give a pick-up truck effect.

Powering the ME.WE are four in-wheel electric motors that take their energy from an under-floor battery pack. Such a set-up means an all-wheel drive mode can be used when required.

The ME.WE is due to make its debut at Le Rendez-vous Toyota, Toyota’s brand experience centre in Paris. For now at least it remains strictly a concept, as there are no plans for a production version.

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Groove Up! and Rock Up! editions

April 25, 2013, 6:51 am

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Volkswagen has launched a couple of music-inspired special editions of its Up! city car.

Highlight of the Groove Up! is a Fender audio system that comprises a 300 watt amplifier, six speakers and a subwoofer. Also included in the specification are gloss black door mirror caps, 16” alloy wheels, unique black and orange upholstery and rear privacy glass. The Groove Up! is available with either three or five doors.

Alternatively, the Rock Up! features a subtle gloss black body kit, 16” alloy wheels, a full-length anthracite body stripe and gloss black door mirror caps. It’s only being offered in three-door guise, though.

Both models are based on the existing High Up! trim grade, so electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors, heated front seats and the ‘Maps and More’ infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity and touchscreen satellite navigation all come as standard.

Power is provided by a 73 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS) 1.0 litre, three-cylinder petrol engine that drives the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.

Given that prices for the standard three-door High Up! start at £10,665, the Groove Up! seems reasonable value. Conversely, the premium being charged for the Rock Up! looks excessive:

Model	OTR Price
Groove Up! three-door	£11,640
Groove Up! five-door	£12,015
Rock Up! three-door	£12,980

Deliveries of the Groove Up! and Rock Up! special editions are due to begin in July.

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Twizy Renault Sport F1 concept

April 25, 2013, 3:27 pm

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Sticking the Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) from a Formula 1 car into a tiny Twizy electric vehicle and then attaching several aerodynamic appendages is a fairly bonkers idea. But that’s exactly what Renault has just done.

Unveiled at the Spanish plant where the road-going Twizy is built, the Twizy Renault Sport F1 concept is a one-off that boasts six times more power than usual (at least in short bursts).

The KERS set-up comprises an electric motor-generator, control unit and separate lithium-ion batteries. It sits beneath a transparent cover where the rear seat usually is and - for 13 second spurts - augments the Twizy’s standard motor.

KERS usually works via regenerative braking but, because the potential kinetic energy that the Twizy can produce is insufficient, it also has to draw charge from the main motor. Nevertheless, the result is an increase in power from 17 bhp (13 kW / 17 PS) to 96 bhp (72 kW / 97 PS), which is enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 6.0 seconds. That makes it as quick as the Mégane Renaultsport 265 hatchback.

With its side pods, carbon fibre front splitter, rear wing and diffuser, there’s no mistaking the F1 concept for anything else. The wheels and slick tyres are borrowed from a Formula Renault single-seat race car, and it even features an F1-style rear rain light and steering wheel.

Of course the Twizy Renault Sport F1 concept isn’t destined for production. However, it could be the ideal basis for a race series, perhaps to support the upcoming FIA Formula E Championship.

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Audi R18 e-tron quattro long-tail

April 26, 2013, 10:26 am

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Next month the second round of the FIA World Endurance Championship takes place at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium. For Audi Motorsport, the event will be an opportunity to both consolidate its position at the top of the drivers’ and manufacturers’ standings and prepare for June’s Le Mans 24 Hours race.

Part of that groundwork is going to involve running a different version of the R18 e-tron quattro. While the two cars of Loïc Duval / Tom Kristensen / Allan McNish and Marcel Fässler / André Lotterer / Benoît Tréluyer are to remain standard, the third R18 of Marc Gené / Lucas di Grassi / Oliver Jarvis will be appearing in special ‘long-tail’ form.

As the name implies, the long-tail features lengthened rear bodywork that has been aerodynamically optimised for high-speed circuits such as Le Mans. The team intends to compare the two set-ups over different sections of the Spa track to properly assess any performance differences.

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Audi TT ultra quattro concept

April 26, 2013, 2:42 pm

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Audi has revealed the TT ultra quattro concept, which is due to debut at the forthcoming Wörthersee event in Germany.

Based on a regular TT 2.0 TFSI Coupé, its weight has been slashed by 300 kg (661 lbs) to just 1,111 kg (2,449 lbs). Power meanwhile is up to 305 bhp (228 kW / 310 PS).

That diet was mainly achieved through changes to the bodyshell. Carbon fibre-reinforced polymer has been used for the transmission tunnel, roof panel, B-pillars and the rear end, plus magnesium features in the floor.

Further measures include the fitment of a titanium exhaust system, CFRP and aluminium wheels, ceramic front brake discs, fibreglass-reinforced polymer suspension springs and a small lithium-ion starter battery.

Given the vastly improved power to weight ratio, performance is naturally much more impressive than the standard car’s. Acceleration from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes only 4.2 seconds, while the top speed rises to 173 mph (278 km/h).

The good news is that Audi is saying the TT ultra quattro concept could preview some similarly lightweight, low-volume production models.

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2014 Toyota 4Runner launched

April 28, 2013, 12:20 pm

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Toyota has given its fifth-generation 4Runner mid-size SUV a facelift. Unveiled the at the Stagecoach Country Music Festival in Indio, California, the 2014 model features cosmetic updates inside and out.

Visually, the most obvious exterior change is the completely restyled front end, which now incorporates smoked-effect projector beam headlights. New design alloy wheels, LED rear light clusters and a standard-fit roof rack finish off the tweaks.

On the inside, the backs of the front seats have been re-sculptured to offer more knee room for passengers in the rear, while both the SR5 and Limited versions can be specified with an optional third row of seats. Other modifications are aimed at improving comfort and convenience, and include enhanced audio systems and the addition of a rear-view reversing camera.

As before, power is provided by a 270 bhp (201 kW / 273 PS) 4.0 litre V6 petrol engine that comes connected to a five-speed automatic gearbox.

Transmission availability depends on trim grade. 4Runner buyers will get to choose from rear-wheel drive, part-time four-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive with a locking centre differential.

The off-road focussed Trail version also has an electronic-locking rear differential, as well as Multi-Terrain Select (which modulates wheel spin according to different surface types) and Crawl Control (a function that regulates both engine speed and braking to maintain one of five pre-set speeds when traversing uneven ground or inclines). 

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London Congestion Charge changes

April 29, 2013, 6:47 am

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Transport for London has confirmed some major changes to the London Congestion Charge, including the amalgamation of the existing Greener Vehicle Discount and Electric Vehicle Discount into a single Ultra Low Emission Discount.

The introduction of the ULED scheme, which comes into force on the 1st of July 2013, follows a twelve-week consultation period.

Eligible cars and vans will qualify for a 100% discount on the daily charge, but the criteria are strict:

• Pure electric vehicles that use an electric motor for propulsion, powered by energy stored in a battery. No petrol or diesel is used. Any vehicles already registered for the EVD will automatically be transferred to the ULED.


• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles that use an externally-rechargeable battery pack in addition to a conventional petrol or diesel engine. Minimum range in electric mode must be 10 miles. Cars should be capable of reaching 60 mph, while vans should have a top speed of at least 50 mph. TfL is going to publish a list of eligible vehicles for this category.


• Petrol- or diesel-powered cars and vans that are Euro 5 compliant and have carbon dioxide emissions of 75 g/km or less.

The move to 75 g/km is significant because the GVD applied to any petrol- or diesel- powered cars that emit 100 g/km or less.

So, on the face of it, the introduction of the ULED is bad news for anybody who bought a car specifically to take advantage of the GVD as, according to the Vehicle Certification Agency, there are currently no models available that would meet the stricter CO2 target.

In fairness to TfL, it did make it clear when the GVD was introduced at the beginning of 2011 that the CO2 limit would be reviewed and would most likely be reduced.

However, there is some good news for those currently registered for the GVD. TfL has agreed that they can continue to enjoy the full Congestion Charge discount for a ‘sunset period’ of three years until the 24th of June 2016.

There is also an opportunity for drivers who don’t fancy buying a pure electric or hybrid vehicle in order to qualify for the ULED. TfL has stated that the GVD will close to new registrations on the 28th of June 2013, therefore anyone thinking of purchasing a sub-100 g/km petrol or diesel car should act quickly if they want to take advantage of the sunset period.

Along with the introduction of the ULED, the penalty charge is increasing from £120 to £130 on the 20th of May 2013. Furthermore, the option to pay the Congestion Charge in shops is being abolished from the 26th of July 2013, simply because only six per cent of people use this channel and it’s no longer cost effective to operate.

For the time being at least, the Congestion Charge remains at £10 per day, or £9 for those registered with the Congestion Charge Auto Pay scheme.

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Land Rover LXV marks 65 years

May 1, 2013, 6:35 am

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Production of the original Land Rover Series 1 began back in 1948 so, to celebrate this year’s 65th anniversary, the special edition Defender LXV has just been unveiled.

Available in a selection of five body styles, the LXV is distinguished by its 16” ‘Sawtooth’ alloy wheels, unique decals and leather seats with orange stitching and embossed front headrests.

Buyers will have a choice of either Santorini Black or Fuji White paintwork, with both finishes coming with a contrasting Corris Grey roof, grille and headlight surrounds.

Prices for the Land Rover Defender LXV editions are due to be announced in August.

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BMW F 800 GS Adventure

May 2, 2013, 10:25 am

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BMW is expanding its mid-size enduro bike range with the introduction of the F 800 GS Adventure.

Designed to appeal to riders who need the ability to carry a lot of kit over rough terrain for long distances, the new arrival features a number of modifications compared to the regular F 800 GS.

2013 BMW F 800 GS Adventure. Scroll down for more images.

Most obvious of these are the redesigned bodywork, larger windscreen and wider bench seat. Less apparent - but just as important - are the changes to the under-seat fuel tank. Sitting within a strengthened rear sub-frame, its capacity has been increased from 16 to 24 litres and the result is an extra 75 miles (120 kilometres) between refills.

Other differences include the fitment of an engine protection bar, wider footrests, a reinforced brake pedal and pannier racks. However, the aluminium panniers themselves are extras.

Also on the options list are Electronic Suspension Adjustment and Automatic Stability Control. Furthermore, an ‘Enduro’ riding mode is available in conjunction with the latter. It increases the slip threshold of both the ASC and standard anti-lock braking systems for better off-road performance.

To help get sales off to a strong start, a special Launch Edition is being produced for selected markets. Limited to just 1,000 examples worldwide, its additional specification consists of a Comfort pack (centre stand, heated grips and onboard computer), Enduro pack (ASC with Enduro mode) and Special Accessories pack (Navigator Adventure GPS system, lockable panniers and top case holder). All Launch Edition models will be finished in Sandrover matt paintwork.

Apparently the UK is to be denied the Launch Edition, though. Instead, the F800 GS Adventure Travel edition is being offered here. It gets the items from the Comfort and Enduro packages, together with LED auxiliary headlights and a choice of on- or off-road tyres.

The UK price for the F 800 GS Adventure has been set at £9,650, while the Travel edition is £10,535. Both versions arrive at dealers on the 15th of June.

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Top 10: 2014 911 Turbo essentials

May 3, 2013, 2:27 pm

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Porsche has unveiled the all-new 2014 911 Turbo. The latest addition to the Type 991 family, it promises to be both quicker and more efficient that its predecessors.

2014 Porsche 911 Turbo S. Scroll down for more images.

Here are ten things worth knowing about the car that’s just become the flagship of the 911 range:

1. Two versions will be available

Buyers get to choose from either the 911 Turbo or the more powerful Turbo S. Both come with a 3.8 litre, twin-turbo, six-cylinder engine, but the Turbo S has an output of 552 bhp (412 kW / 560 PS) with 700 Nm (516 lb/ft) of peak torque instead of the usual 513 bhp (383 kW / 520 PS) and 660 Nm (486 lb/ft).

The Turbo S also boasts more standard kit, including ceramic composite brakes, Sport Chrono Package Plus, full LED headlights and the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control active anti-roll system.

2. There’s no manual gearbox option

As with the recently-announced 911 GT3, the only transmission available is a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox.

3. The all-wheel drive system has been updated

A new Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive system incorporates an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch as well as a water cooling function. The revised set-up means higher levels of torque can be sent to the front wheels when required.

4. The rear wheels steer

Another similarity with the GT3. In place of conventional control arms on the rear axle, Porsche has used electro-mechanical actuators that can alter the steering angle of the rear wheels by up to 2.8 degrees.

When travelling below 31 mph (50 km/h), the rears turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels to improve agility around low-speed corners. Conversely, at 50 mph (80 km/h) and above the rear wheels point in the same direction as the fronts, thereby aiding stability.

5. Adaptive aerodynamics feature for the first time

Both the front spoiler and rear wing can be adjusted to three positions. This allows the driver to select either maximum downforce or a more aerodynamically-efficient configuration for high-speed running.

6. The bodywork’s wide

Wide rear arches are a 911 Turbo trademark, so it’s no surprise that this latest version continues the trend. On the 2014 model they’re 28 mm (just over an inch) wider than those of the Carrera 4 and house two-tone 20” alloy wheels.

7. Performance is impressive

Of course it is. The 911 Turbo accelerates from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.4 seconds before going on to hit a top speed of 195 mph (315 km/h).

For the more powerful Turbo S, those figures are 3.1 seconds and 197 mph (318 km/h) respectively. Not particularly different then, but perhaps they don’t tell the full story. That could explain why Porsche is keen to point out that a Turbo S on road tyres will complete a lap of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife in less than 7 minutes 30 seconds.

8. Fuel economy is improved

The New European Driving Cycle combined figure for both variants is a reasonable 29.1 mpg (9.7 l/100km). Revised thermal management for the powertrain and the adoption of a stop-start system that kicks in when coasting to a halt are among the measures Porsche has taken to reduce fuel consumption.

9. The GT3 is cheaper

The UK price for the 911 Turbo has been set at £118,439, which makes it around 18% more expensive than the £100,540 GT3. The 911 Turbo S meanwhile costs £140,852.

At least the specification is fairly comprehensive. Satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, DAB digital radio, leather upholstery, climate control and a Thatcham Category 5 vehicle tracking system are all fitted as standard.

10. Sales being later this year

Deliveries of the 2014 911 Turbo to UK customers are expected to begin this September.

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Volkswagen Scirocco Million

May 3, 2013, 3:33 pm

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Volkswagen is commemorating the production of the millionth Scirocco coupé by launching a special edition. Called the Scirocco Million (what else?), it comes with a number of cosmetic tweaks.

The exterior features Deep Black Metallic paintwork with contrasting twin grey stripes that run the length of the body. Grey is also the colour used for the door mirror caps, and the effect is completed by the rear privacy glass, R-Line sills and bumpers, 18” ‘Interlagos’ alloy wheels, smoked rear light clusters and various ‘Million’ decals.

On the inside, the specification includes black leather upholstery with orange stitching, a black roof lining and stainless steel pedals. Special floor mats and unique ‘Million’ inscribed door sill plates are part of the package too.

Buyers are going to get a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines, with the most powerful option being the 207 bhp (155 kW / 210 PS) 2.0 litre TSI petrol unit.

However, the Scirocco Million will only be available in two markets: Germany and - somewhat inexplicably - China. Cars destined for the latter country differ slightly, as they are equipped with 17” ‘Spa’ alloy wheels and a lighter tint for the glass.

Prices in Germany start from €27,325.

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Brabus modifies the CLA

May 4, 2013, 7:35 am

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Brabus has announced a range of modifications for the recently-launched Mercedes-Benz CLA four-door coupé.

The catalogue includes a choice of 18” or 19” Monoblock wheels in five designs, replacement suspension springs and a quad exhaust system that sits within a bespoke rear bumper insert.

For those wanting extra performance, two engine upgrade packages are in development.

The PowerXtra CGI B25, which is intended for the petrol-powered CLA 250, lifts power by 33 bhp (25 kW / 34 PS) to 241 bhp (180 kW / 245 PS). Peak torque meanwhile rises from the standard 350 Nm (258 lb/ft) to 385 Nm (284 lb/ft). Although no acceleration figures have been released, Brabus is quoting a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Alternatively, the Eco PowerXtra Kit D3 has been engineered for the diesel-powered CLA 220 CDI. It results in an output of 207 bhp (155 kW / 210 PS) instead of the usual 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) and increases torque by 60 Nm (44 lb/ft) to 410 Nm (302 lb/ft). Again, the only stat published is the top speed, which oddly remains unchanged at 143 mph (230 km/h).

The car’s interior hasn’t been ignored, either. Among the items available are various leather and Alcantara trim options, aluminium gearshift paddles, illuminated door sill plates and quilted floor mats.

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