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McLaren 720S Spider first view

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McLaren has launched the latest member of its Super Series range. The 720S Spider – which is available to order now – features a carbon fibre Retractable Hard Top that can be electrically raised or lowered in just 11 seconds.

Crucially, the Monocage II-S carbon fibre body structure hasn’t required any additional strengthening in the transition from Coupé to Spider. The convertible car’s weight penalty is therefore a mere 49 kilogrammes (108 lbs).

McLaren 720S Spider (2019) Side 1

McLaren 720S Spider (2019) Side 2

Other elements unique to the Spider include glazed flying buttresses for better all-round visibility, an opening back window and a set of bespoke 19” front / 20” rear forged alloy wheels that can be shod with either Pirelli P Zero or P Zero Corsa tyres. Furthermore, the behaviour of the recalibrated active rear spoiler depends on the RHT’s position.

Thanks to the familiar 710 bhp (537 kW / 720 PS) 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 engine and seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, pace certainly isn’t lacking. Indeed, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 2.9 seconds equals the Coupé’s, while 202 mph (325 km/h) is possible with the roof down. That figure increases to 212 mph (341 km/h) when everything’s closed.

The 720S Spider is being offered in standard, Luxury and Performance guises. UK prices start at £237,000 and deliveries are due to begin in March 2019.

McLaren 720S Spider (2019) Front SideMcLaren 720S Spider (2019) Interior

McLaren 720S Spider (2019) TopMcLaren 720S Spider (2019) Rear Side

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Six MSO cars for McLaren Beverly Hills

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McLaren Special Operations has designed some bespoke examples of the 570S Coupé and Spider for McLaren’s dealer in Beverly Hills. The collection, which has a ‘Racing Through the Ages’ theme, comprises three different colour schemes.

All of the sextet benefit from gloss black ten-spoke lightweight forged wheels, the MSO Defined Black Pack, an MSO Defined Titanium SuperSports Exhaust and an MSO rear wing. A GT4 stripe appears on the outside and on the seat backrests, plus the cabins have unique plaques.

The ‘Muriwai’ 570S Coupé and Spider are distinguished by their MSO Defined Muriwai White paintwork. With a pale blue tinge, this shade is intended to evoke Muriwai Beach in New Zealand, the place where Bruce McLaren competed in his first motorsport event.

McLaren 570S Spider ‘Muriwai’ (2019) Front Side and 570S Coupé ‘Muriwai’ (2019) Rear Side

McLaren racers of the 1960s and 1970s were the inspiration for the ‘Papaya Spark’ duo. Of course, the same vivid hue currently adorns the company’s Formula One cars.

McLaren 570S Coupé ‘Papaya Spark’ (2019) Rear Side and 570S Spider ‘Papaya Spark’ (2019) Front Side

Completing the line-up are the ‘Sarthe Grey’ versions. They commemorate the McLaren F1 GTR that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995.

McLaren 570S Coupé ‘Sarthe Grey’ (2019) Front Side and 570S Spider ‘Sarthe Grey’ (2019) Rear Side

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UK prices for the 2019 Cupra Ateca

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In February, Seat announced that Cupra (originally a trim grade for sportier vehicles) would become a standalone brand. It was a bewildering move for a couple of reasons.

Firstly, leaving Seat without any halo models raises an obvious question: what’s the point of Seat now? Certainly, any ambitions to be regarded as a Spanish equivalent of Alfa Romeo seem to have been entirely abandoned. There’s a very real risk that future car buyers could look elsewhere because Seat is perceived as either anonymous or non-aspirational.

Secondly, establishing a separate marque is going to take time and a concerted marketing effort. Most non-enthusiasts have probably never heard of Cupra. To make matters worse, they’ll only be confused by the ‘Seat but not a Seat’ situation (assuming that there’s not total disinterest, of course).

Selecting the Ateca compact crossover to be Cupra’s first production offering is, at first glance, further evidence of a puzzling strategy. Launching a hot hatch based on either the Ibiza or Leon might have been a more prudent move. However, the Ateca represents a growing market segment, so perhaps such a decision was actually quite clever.

Cupra Ateca (2019) Front Side

Unique bumpers, LED headlights, a honeycomb grille, 19” diamond-cut alloy wheels and four exhaust pipes identify the Cupra Ateca. Inside, the specification includes front sports seats, Alcantara upholstery, an 8” infotainment touchscreen and a bespoke TFT cockpit display.

Cupra Ateca (2019) Dashboard

While looking the part is important for showroom appeal, decent performance is a key prerequisite too. Fortunately, the latter hasn’t been forgotten.

A 2.0 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine produces an impressive 295 bhp (221 kW / 300 PS) plus 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque. That output is delivered to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Consequently, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint takes just 5.2 seconds and a 153 mph (246 km/h) top speed is possible. 38.2 mpg (7.4 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 168 g/km (according to the NEDC combined measure) suggest fairly poor efficiency, though.

Cupra Ateca (2019) Rear Side

On-the-road prices for the Cupra Ateca start at £35,900, with deliveries expected to commence during the first quarter of 2019. The £3,345 Design and £1,930 Comfort and Sound packages are among the available cost options.

In the UK, twenty-five Seat dealers have been appointed to handle Cupra sales.

Mégane R.S. 300 Trophy versus Civic Type R

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Renault has confirmed prices and specifications for the new Mégane R.S. 300 Trophy, which is now available to order.

There are several enhancements compared to a regular Mégane R.S. 280. As well as an extra 20 horsepower, the superior Renault Sport model gains lightweight 19” ‘Jerez’ alloy wheels shod with Bridgestone Potenza S001 tyres, 355 mm bi-material front brake discs and a revised exhaust that incorporates a sound-altering mechanical valve in the rear silencer.

Renault Mégane R.S. 300 Trophy (2019) Side

Also fitted as standard is the Cup chassis package. This is claimed to deliver better handling thanks to a Torsen mechanical limited-slip differential, firmer dampers, stiffer springs and thicker anti-roll bars.

Given the budget required to buy a Mégane R.S. 300 Trophy and its performance potential, the Honda Civic Type R is an obvious rival.

Honda Civic Type R (2018) Side

Indeed, as the data below shows, Renault seems to have done some serious benchmarking.

Model Renault
Mégane
R.S. 300 Trophy
Honda
Civic
Type R
Engine 1.8 litre,
four-cylinder,
turbocharged
petrol
2.0 litre,
four-cylinder,
turbocharged
petrol
Transmission 6-speed
manual
6-speed
dual-clutch
automatic
6-speed
manual
Power 295 bhp
(220 kW /
300 PS)
315 bhp
(235 kW /
320 PS)
Torque 400 Nm
(295 lb/ft)
420 Nm
(309 lb/ft)
400 Nm
(295 lb/ft)
0-62 mph
(100 km/h)
5.7 secs 5.7 secs 5.8 secs
Top Speed 162 mph
(260 km/h)
158 mph
(254 km/h)
169 mph
(271 km/h)
Combined cycle 35.3 mpg
(8.0 l/100km)
36.7 mpg
(7.7 l/100km)
36.7 mpg
(7.7 l/100km)
CO2 emissions 183 g/km 176 g/km 176 g/km
OTR price £31,810 £33,510 £31,525 /
£33,525*
*GT version.

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Extra power for the 2019 GMC Sierra AT4

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GMC has introduced an Off-Road Performance Package for its Sierra 1500 AT4 full-size pick-up.

Costing $4,940 in the United States, this option adds a set of 18” machined alloy wheels, Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tyres, a cat-back exhaust system and an upgraded air intake.

GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 Crew Cab (2019) Front Side

As a result, power from the truck’s 6.2 litre V8 engine increases by 15 bhp (11 kW / 15 PS) to 435 bhp (324 kW / 441 PS), while peak torque rises from 623 Nm (460 lb/ft) to 635 Nm (469 lb/ft). That output is delivered to all four wheels via a ten-speed automatic transmission.

The rest of the specification is as per the regular Sierra 1500 AT4, which has been engineered with a focus on all-terrain ability. As evidence of that approach, the standard equipment list includes skid plates, a locking rear differential, a 2” suspension lift, Rancho dampers and hill descent control.

GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 Crew Cab (2019) InteriorGMC Sierra 1500 AT4 Crew Cab (2019) Rear Side

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Images © General Motors.

The Golf Match returns for 2019

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Volkswagen has decided to simplify its Golf trim grade structure. The changes – which involve the SE and SE Navigation variants being replaced by a new Match specification – affect the three-door hatchback, five-door hatchback, SV (weird ‘tall Golf’) and estate models.

Essentially, Match is very similar to the outgoing SE Navigation, but there’s some extra standard equipment. Those additional items comprise front fog lights, 16” ‘Woodstock’ diamond-cut alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and an upgraded Discover Navigation system.

Volkswagen Golf Match 5-Door (2019) Side

Depending on the body style chosen, customers will have a choice of three TSI petrol and two TDI diesel engines. Most configurations are available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

On-the-road prices range from £20,545 to £27,470. As deliveries begin next month, Volkswagen dealers are already accepting orders.

Volkswagen Golf Match 5-Door (2019) InteriorVolkswagen Golf Match 5-Door (2019) Rear Side

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A unique McLaren P1 GTR that honours Senna

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In 1988, the late Ayrton Senna won the first of his three Formula One World Championships. One car collector wanted to commemorate that event’s 30th anniversary in a very special way.

Consequently, McLaren Special Operations was commissioned to customise a P1 GTR. This one-off creation, which is called ‘Beco’ (a family nickname for Senna), naturally features the famous red and white Marlboro livery.

McLaren P1 GTR ‘Beco’ (2018) Front Side

The modifications aren’t merely cosmetic, though. For instance, output from the hybrid powertrain is up from the usual 986 bhp (735 kW / 1000 PS), but by how much remains a mystery. The only clue comes from the owner, who reckons that the result is a “suitably pleasing” increase.

To complement the extra performance potential, the aerodynamics received attention too. Redesigned components include the front dive planes, front splitter, barge boards and rear Gurney flap. Furthermore, the rear wing has gained larger end plates, along with some additional downforce-generating elements.

McLaren P1 GTR ‘Beco’ (2018) DashboardMcLaren P1 GTR ‘Beco’ (2018) Rear Side

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Jimny concepts at the 2019 Tokyo Auto Salon

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Suzuki has probably pre-empted numerous aftermarket modifiers and customisers by creating a couple of Jimny-based concepts.

The more dramatic of the pair is the Jimny Sierra Pick Up Style. As that name suggests, it features a small open load space plus a two-seat cab. A retro front grille, four bar-mounted spotlights and some opinion-dividing wood-effect body trim are among the cosmetic additions.

Suzuki Jimny Sierra Pick Up Style (2019) Front Side

By contrast, the Jimny Survive is designed to withstand extreme conditions. Distinguished by tubular bumpers and an external roll cage, this conversion also boasts a front winch, off-road tyres, sand ladders and extra protection underneath.

Suzuki Jimny Survive (2019) Front Side

Both vehicles are due to appear in public for the first time at next month’s Tokyo Auto Salon.

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Infiniti QX Inspiration concept first view

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Infiniti has released some images of its latest concept vehicle, which is due to appear at the North American International Auto Show this month.

The QX Inspiration offers a glimpse of a future pure-electric SUV that combines “complete range confidence” with high performance levels.

Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept (2019) Front Side

Thanks to huge wheels, a high waistline, minimal glazing and fastback styling, the proportions are certainly distinctive. Although the external view suggests otherwise, the interior is “lounge-like” and spacious (according to Infiniti’s blurb).

Infiniti QX Inspiration Concept (2019) Side

More details about the QX Inspiration are expected over the next couple of weeks.

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Top 10: UK car sales 2018

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173,470 fewer new cars were registered in the UK during 2018 versus 2017, according to figures just published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Such a serious decline raises one key question: does it signify a downward trend that could continue into 2019 and beyond, or are volumes merely returning to the annual levels typically seen before the 2007-2008 economic crisis?

SMMT New Car Registrations 2002 - 2018

Diesel’s share continued to plummet, thanks to uncertainty about future taxation policies, threats of local usage restrictions and the increased availability of efficient petrol and hybrid alternatives.

However, using that as a sole excuse for the overall drop in sales would be disingenuous, even if anecdotally some diesel owners are delaying their vehicle replacements until legislators provide more clarity.

Total UK Car Registrations 2018 - By Fuel Type
Fuel 2018 2017 Change Change %
Diesel 750,165 1,065,879 -315,714 -29.6%
Petrol 1,475,712 1,354,917 +120,795 +8.9%
Alternative 141,270 119,821 +21,449 +17.9%
Total 2,367,147 2,540,617 -173,470 -6.8%

Total UK Car Registrations 2018 - By Category
Category 2018 2017 Change Change %
Private 1,052,202 1,123,860 -71,658 -6.4%
Fleet 1,222,849 1,319,193 -96,344 -7.3%
Business 92,096 97,564 -5,468 -5.6%
Total 2,367,147 2,540,617 -173,470 -6.8%
Fleet + Business 1,314,945 1,416,757 -101,812 -7.2%

Despite all of the upheavals experienced throughout the year, the top ten manufacturer table ended up looking virtually identical to 2017’s.

Every brand on the list suffered a registrations reduction, though. The three most severely affected were Nissan (-48,519), Ford (-33,314) and Audi (-31,243). In fact, without their combined shortfall of 113,076 units, the total market would have contracted by only 2.4%.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2018 - By Manufacturer
Position 2018 Manufacturer Registrations Market SharePosition 2017
1 Ford 254,082 10.7% 1
2 Volkswagen 203,133 8.6% 2
3 Vauxhall 177,298 7.5% 3
4 Mercedes-Benz 172,238 7.3% 4
5 BMW 172,048 7.3% 5
6 Audi 143,739 6.1% 6
7 Nissan 102,637 4.3% 7
8 Toyota 101,922 4.3% 8
9 Kia 95,764 4.1% 10
10 Hyundai 89,925 3.8% 9

Similarly, the individual model league held few surprises. The Ford Fiesta’s seemingly eternal lead actually extended, while the Vauxhall Corsa rose from fifth to third spot.

Two new entries – the Ford Kuga and Kia Sportage – emphasised the growing popularity of compact SUVs. They displaced the Vauxhall Astra (which was in sixth position last year) and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2018 - By Model
Position Model RegistrationsMarket Share
1 Ford Fiesta 95,892 4.1%
2 Volkswagen Golf 64,829 2.7%
3 Vauxhall Corsa 52,915 2.2%
4 Nissan Qashqai 50,546 2.1%
5 Ford Focus 50,492 2.1%
6 Volkswagen Polo 45,149 1.9%
7 Mini Hatch 44,904 1.9%
8 Mercedes-Benz A-Class 43,527 1.8%
9 Ford Kuga 40,398 1.7%
10 Kia Sportage 35,567 1.5%

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Top 10: UK car sales 2017 - winners and losers
Top 10: UK car sales 2017

Top 10: UK car sales 2018 - winners and losers

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2018 was a great year for a few manufacturers in the UK, even though total new car registrations dropped by 6.8% to 2,367,147 units. However, many others had a fairly disastrous time. They lost volume due to various factors including the introduction of the WLTP emissions testing regime, the shift away from diesel and simply not having enough desirable model types.

Indeed, demand for crossovers and SUVs continued to grow, something that especially benefited Chinese-owned MG. Its deliveries more than doubled compared to 2017’s figure.

MG ZS (2018) Front Side

Spanish brand Seat once again recorded a noteworthy increase, while Volvo and Jaguar both demonstrated that not all buyers of ‘premium’ products want something German.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2018 - Winners
Manufacturer 2018 2017 Change Change %
MG 9,049 4,441 4,608 103.8%
Mitsubishi 21,156 16,092 5,064 31.5%
Abarth 5,631 4,441 1,190 26.8%
Subaru 3,141 2,679 462 17.3%
Seat 62,863 56,130 6,733 12.0%
McLaren 626 567 59 10.4%
Volvo 50,319 46,139 4,180 9.1%
Jaguar 37,019 35,544 1,475 4.2%
Kia 95,764 93,222 2,542 2.7%
Mazda 39,602 39,092 510 1.3%
Total Market 2,367,147 2,540,617 -173,470 -6.8%

At the other end of the spectrum, Infiniti – which actually shifted fewer vehicles than either Maserati or Aston Martin during 2018 – almost disappeared from the registrations league table.

Infiniti Q50 (2018) Front Side

The dismal performances posted by Nissan and Audi were undoubtedly the most significant, though. That no major rivals experienced similar percentage reductions merely made their plights worse.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2018 - Losers
Manufacturer 2018 2017 Change Change %
Infiniti 750 3,515 -2,765 -78.7%
DS 5,074 9,082 -4,008 -44.1%
Chevrolet 41 70 -29 -41.4%
Nissan 102,637 151,156 -48,519 -32.1%
Smart 7,631 10,323 -2,692 -26.1%
Maserati 1,297 1,701 -404 -23.8%
SsangYong 2,754 3,590 -836 -23.3%
Fiat 35,652 44,475 -8,823 -19.8%
Audi 143,739 174,982 -31,243 -17.9%
Alfa Romeo 4,161 4,997 -836 -16.7%
Total Market 2,367,147 2,540,617 -173,470 -6.8%

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Top 10: Irish car sales 2018

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New car registrations in Ireland totalled 125,557 units during 2018, a drop of 4.4% compared to the previous year.

That wasn’t a particularly dramatic change, but the underlying data from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry shows that some buying habits continued to evolve. For example, while diesel was still the preferred fuel choice, its market share declined from 65.2% to 54.4%.

As can be seen from the figures below, petrol accounted for most of the substitution. However, ‘alternative’ vehicles (i.e. pure electrics and hybrids) once again rose in popularity, increasing their mix to 7.1% in the process.

Irish Car Registrations 2018 - By Fuel Type
Fuel 2018 2017 +/- % +/-
Diesel 68,349 85,660 -17,311 -20.2%
Petrol 48,309 40,289 +8,020 +19.9%
Alternative 8,899 5,383 +3,516 +65.3%
Total 125,557 131,332 -5,775 -4.4%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

The arrival of the T-Roc crossover managed to offset a reduction in Golf and Jetta deliveries, thereby keeping Volkswagen at the head of the manufacturers’ league for a second year.

New crossovers also helped the two Korean brands. Hyundai moved up one place to third position thanks to the launch of the Kona, whereas Kia got promoted to seventh mainly because of the Stonic’s introduction.

Hyundai Kona (2018) Front Side

Peugeot entered the top ten after selling an additional 1,707 cars. The 3008 and 5008 – yes, more crossovers – were responsible for virtually all of that growth. Conversely, Opel slipped from ninth to eleventh spot after Corsa and Astra volumes fell by 42.1% and and 48.6% respectively.

Top 10: Irish Car Registrations 2018 - By Manufacturer
Position Manufacturer 2018 2017 +/- % +/-
1 Volkswagen 13,775 13,830 -55 -0.4%
2 Toyota 12,037 12,684 -647 -5.1%
3 Hyundai 11,633 11,916 -283 -2.4%
4 Ford 11,288 12,243 -955 -7.8%
5 Nissan 9,701 10,349 -648 -6.3%
6 Škoda 9,116 9,030 +86 +1.0%
7 Kia 7,326 7,132 +194 +2.7%
8 Renault 7,176 8,328 -1,152 -13.8%
9 Peugeot 5,596 3,889 +1,707 +43.9%
10 Audi 4,919 5,544 -625 -11.3%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

Membership of the top ten models list was almost identical to 2017’s, although the Toyota C-HR replaced the Toyota Corolla. The Hyundai Tuscon, Volkswagen Golf and Nissan Qashqai all hung onto their top three rankings.

Toyota C-HR (2017) Front Side

Significant movements included the Ford Focus and Škoda Octavia swapping around, the Volkswagen Tiguan’s elevation from tenth to joint sixth and the Ford Fiesta’s demotion from sixth to ninth.

Top 10: Irish Car Registrations 2018 - By Model
Position Model 2018 2017 +/- % +/-
1 Hyundai Tucson 4,026 4,892 -866 -17.7%
2 Volkswagen Golf 4,012 4,733 -721 -15.2%
3 Nissan Qashqai 4,004 4,196 -192 -4.6%
4 Ford Focus 3,777 3,850 -73 -1.9%
5 Škoda Octavia 3,357 3,980 -623 -15.7%
6= Kia Sportage 2,875 3,066 -191 -6.2%
6= Volkswagen Tiguan 2,875 2,480 +395 +15.9%
8 Toyota Yaris 2,855 2,881 -26 -0.9%
9 Ford Fiesta 2,724 3,217 -493 -15.3%
10 Toyota C-HR 2,505 1,966 +539 +27.4%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

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An improved Nissan Leaf is coming in 2019

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When the second-generation Leaf electric car was launched in 2017, Nissan promised that a more powerful version with greater range would be imminent. Now, after a slight delay, it’s almost here.

This additional model is dubbed Leaf e+. Thanks to a new 62 kWh battery pack, maximum driving distance on a single charge (as per the WLTP combined cycle) is estimated to be 239 miles (385 kilometres). The equivalent figure for the existing 40 kWh variant is 168 miles (270 kilometres).

A stronger electric motor is the other key difference. Output is up by 67 bhp (50 kW / 67 PS) to 214 bhp (160 kW / 217 PS), while torque has risen from 320 Nm (236 lb/ft) to 340 Nm (250 lb/ft). As a result, Nissan says that mid-range acceleration is quicker, plus the top speed becomes 97 mph (156 km/h).

Initially, the Leaf e+ will only be available in 3.Zero Limited Edition guise. As well as a better 8” infotainment screen, the enhanced standard equipment list includes the e-Pedal and ProPILOT systems.

Nissan Leaf 3.Zero e+ Limited Edition (2019) Front Side

Dealers are already accepting orders, but just 5,000 units have been allocated to Europe and deliveries won’t begin until the summer. UK prices start at a somewhat exorbitant £37,105 (after applying the government’s £3,500 Plug-in Car Grant).

The regular 40 kWh Leaf is also being offered in 3.Zero specification. Costing from £31,095, it arrives in May 2019.

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Lexus creates the LC Convertible Concept

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Currently, Lexus doesn’t have an open-top car in its range, but that situation could soon change.

The LC Convertible Concept, which is going to be revealed at next week’s North American International Auto Show, offers a preview of a possible production model.

Lexus LC Convertible Concept (2019) Rear Side

Obviously based on the existing LC coupé, the concept looks almost showroom-ready. Indeed, unless public reaction is surprisingly unfavourable or there are still engineering challenges to overcome, then expect manufacturing to begin imminently.

Lexus LC Convertible Concept (2019) InteriorLexus LC Convertible Concept (2019) Front Side

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2019 Vauxhall Vivaro Life first view

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After Groupe PSA bought Vauxhall and Opel in 2017, some major product changes were inevitable. In particular, the Vivaro van – which had previously shared its design with the Renault Trafic– was an obvious candidate for replacement.

Therefore, observers shouldn’t be surprised when they realise that the new third-generation Vivaro is essentially a rebadged version of the existing Citroën Dispatch / Peugeot Expert (and Toyota Proace).

The first variant due at Vauxhall dealers is the people-carrying Vivaro Life (Opel has decided to use the Zafira Life name instead for the same vehicle). Available in 4.95 metre (16’ 3”) ‘Medium’ and 5.30 metre (17’ 5”) ‘Large’ guises, both have a 3.28 metre (10’ 9”) wheelbase.

Vauxhall Vivaro Life (2019) Front Side

Inside, five, six, eight or nine seats can be accommodated if cloth upholstery is chosen. Alternatively, upgrading to leather will alter the chair count to four, seven or eight. For extra practicality, those in the rear are easily removable when more cargo space is needed.

Like its predecessors, the Vivaro Life is going to be built in Luton. Orders can be placed from February onwards, but prices and final specifications haven’t been confirmed yet.

Vauxhall Vivaro Life (2019) DashboardOpel Zafira Life (2019) Side

Vauxhall Vivaro Life (2019) Rear SideOpel Zafira Life (2019) Interior

Opel Zafira Life (2019) Front SideVauxhall Vivaro Life (2019) Side

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2019 NACTOY winners

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Fifty-four motoring journalists from across Canada and the United States have decided 2019’s North American Car of the Year, Truck of the Year and Utility Vehicle of the Year.

The results, which were declared earlier today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, came after three rounds of voting.

2019 North American Car of the Year

In 2018, the Kia Stinger was narrowly beaten by the Honda Accord. However, this time around, the closely-related Genesis G70 managed to take the title. As a reminder, the Honda Insight and Volvo S60 / V60 were the other two contenders.

Genesis G70 (2019) Front Side
Genesis G70: 2019 North American Car of the Year.

2019 North American Truck of the Year

Some people at General Motors must be feeling a bit sore. A couple of their vehicles – the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 – made the finalists list, but the Ram 1500 ended up winning.

Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn Edition Crew Cab (2019) Front Side
Ram 1500: 2019 North American Truck of the Year.

2019 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

The Hyundai Kona is an affordable, mass-market, sub-compact crossover that can be specified with either an internal combustion engine or a pure-electric powertrain. Therefore, its victory in this category over the slightly ordinary Acura RDX and rather pricey Jaguar I-Pace was entirely justifiable.

Hyundai Kona (2018) Front Side
Hyundai Kona: 2019 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year.

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Toyota GR Supra versus Toyota GT86

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Following a seemingly interminable teaser campaign, Toyota has finally revealed its GR Supra. Indeed, the process effectively started with the FT-1 concept, which was unveiled five years ago.

The fifth-generation Supra will be built alongside the closely-related BMW Z4 by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria. Deliveries are due to begin towards the end of summer 2019.

Toyota GR Supra Pro (2020) Front Side

For the UK, standard equipment includes LED headlights, 19” forged alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres and an active rear differential. Inside, the seats are covered in Alcantara, plus they’re heated and power adjustable. An 8.8” infotainment touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, a rear-view camera and the Safety+ suite of technologies are fitted too.

According to Toyota, most customers are expected to opt for the posher Pro trim grade. Compared to the regular model, it gains black leather upholstery, a head-up display, wireless phone charging and a twelve-speaker audio system.

A special version is also going to be available. The A90 Edition, which is based on the Pro, is distinguished by Storm Grey matt paintwork, matt black wheels and red leather. However, just 24 examples are coming to the UK and only people who have a confirmed GR Supra pre-sales reservation can order one.

Toyota GR Supra A90 Edition (2020) Side

Some observers might be wondering why the Supra even exists, given that Toyota already offers a similar-sized sports coupé in the form of the GT86. Well, as can be seen from the figures below, the GR Supra has 70% more output and a 93% higher entry-level price tag. Therefore, plenty of effort has been made to ensure that the two cars appeal to very different market segments.

That’s great, then… except one question remains: why not build a quicker GT86 instead? Such a task would be fairly easy to achieve. After all, the ‘FA’ 2.0 litre boxer engine used in the GT86 (and the identical Subaru BRZ) is already turbocharged for other production applications, resulting in 295 bhp (220 kW / 300 PS) with 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque.

There are probably many good reasons why a ‘super’ GT86 didn’t happen. Perhaps agreement from Subaru wasn’t forthcoming, for instance. Also, the GT86 is now relatively elderly, having been launched in 2012. A faster variant simply wouldn’t have caused the furore that the new GR Supra has.

Model GR Supra GT86 GR Supra vs. GT86
UK OTR price
Base £52,695 £27,285 + £25,410
Pro £54,000 £28,435* + £25,565
A90 Edition £56,945 - -
Dimensions
Length 4,379 mm
(172.4”)
4,240 mm
(166.9”)
+ 139 mm
(5.5”)
Width 1,854 mm
(73.0”)
1,775 mm
(69.9”)
+ 79 mm
(3.1”)
Height 1,292 mm
(50.9”)
1,320 mm
(52.0”)
- 28 mm
(1.1”)
Kerb weight 1,495 kg
(3,295 lbs)
1,222 kg
(2,694 lbs)
+ 273 kg
(601 lbs)
Seats 2 2+2 - 2
Engine
Fuel Petrol Petrol -
Capacity 2,998 cc 1,998 cc + 1,000 cc
Cylinders 6 inline 4 boxer + 2
Induction Fuel injection,
single turbo
Fuel injection -
Power 335 bhp
(250 kW / 340 PS)
197 bhp
(147 kW / 200 PS)
+ 138 bhp
(103 kW / 140 PS)
Torque 500 Nm
(368 lb/ft)
205 Nm
(151 lb/ft)
+ 295 Nm
(217 lb/ft)
Transmission
Gearbox 8-speed automatic 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic + 2 speeds
Layout Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive -
Performance
0-62 mph
(100 km/h)
4.3 secs 7.6 secs (man)
8.2 secs (auto)
- 3.3 secs (man)
- 3.9 secs (auto)
Top speed 155 mph
(250 km/h)**
140 mph
(225 km/h) (man)
130 mph
(209 km/h) (auto)
+ 15 mph
(25 km/h) (man)
+ 25 mph
(41 km/h) (auto)
* GT86 Pro automatic transmission option is £1,355.
** Electronically limited.

Toyota GR Supra Pro (2020) Rear SideToyota GR Supra A90 Edition (2020) Dashboard

Toyota GR Supra Pro (2020) FrontToyota GR Supra Pro (2020) Rear

Toyota GR Supra Pro (2020) DashboardToyota GR Supra A90 Edition (2020) Front Side

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Mini Cooper S 60 Years Edition launched

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In 2019, the original Mini turns sixty. Kicking off the birthday celebrations is the new Cooper S Hatch 60 Years Edition, which comes in three-door guise only.

It’s distinguished by a unique and rather attractive paint colour called British Racing Green IV. A black roof, two-tone 17” wheels, piano black trim pieces and numerous ‘60 Years’ emblems complete the exterior look.

Mini Cooper S 3-Door Hatch 60 Years Edition (2019) Front Side

The interior is equally appealing, thanks to Dark Cacao leather upholstery with contrasting green piping and stitching.

An upgraded standard specification includes the Navigation Plus pack, the Comfort Plus pack and – perhaps surprisingly – an automatic transmission. A pair of grille-mounted spotlights is fitted, too.

Deliveries of the 60 Years Edition are due to begin next month, but production will be limited to 500 examples. On-the-road prices start at £29,990.

Mini Cooper S 3-Door Hatch 60 Years Edition (2019) InteriorMini Cooper S 3-Door Hatch 60 Years Edition (2019) Rear Side

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Some Ford dealers will sell Westfalia’s Nugget

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Westfalia is usually associated with Volkswagen, but the camper van specialist converts other manufacturers’ products too. Its Transit-based Nugget, for example, has been around for many years.

Ford Transit Custom Nugget Plus (2019) Front SideFord Transit Custom Nugget (2019) Rear Side

Now the latest versions are set to become even more popular, because Ford dealers in Austria, Belgium, Germany, Italy and Switzerland are going to start accepting customer orders.

In short-wheelbase form, the Transit Custom Nugget features five belted travel seats, four sleeping berths and a choice of either an elevating roof an imposing fixed high top.

Ford Transit Custom Nugget (2019) SeatingFord Transit Custom Nugget (2019) Front Side

Ford Transit Custom Nugget (2019) KitchenetteFord Transit Custom Nugget (2019) Lower Bed

At the rear, there’s an innovative L-shaped kitchenette that incorporates a sink, a 40-litre fridge and a two-burner gas hob. A cold-water outside shower (useful for rinsing off dirty boots and equipment rather than bathing) and an auxiliary heating system are also part of the specification. For added self-sufficiency, a Porta Potti can be stowed beneath the wardrobe.

The long-wheelbase Nugget Plus – which is only available with a high top – is the alternative offering. Westfalia has used the extra 36.7 cm (14.4”) to install a built-in toilet and a foldaway wash basin. However, whereas the company’s otherwise very similar Volkswagen Transporter Club Joker boasts a hot-water inside shower, such an amenity is absent here.

Ford Transit Custom Nugget Plus (2019) KitchenetteFord Transit Custom Nugget Plus (2019) Toilet

Ford Transit Custom Nugget Plus (2019) Wash BasinFord Transit Custom Nugget Plus (2019) Upper Bed

Power is provided by a 2.0 litre EcoBlue diesel engine that produces either 128 bhp (95 kW / 130 PS) or 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS). A six-speed automatic transmission can be requested instead of the regular six-speed manual gearbox, regardless of the output chosen.

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Nissan creates an NV300 workshop concept

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A collaboration between Nissan and British design company Studio Hardie has resulted in a bespoke mobile workshop. Although the conversion incorporates custom-made storage cabinets and LED ceiling lights, it appears that the wrong vehicle was used.

Nissan NV300 Panel Van Workshop Concept (2019) Rear Side 1

Yes, the NV300 van chosen by Nissan is ideal for this project, but surely the high-roof version would’ve offered better versatility and more comfort for anybody toiling away inside?

Nissan NV300 Panel Van Workshop Concept (2019) InteriorNissan NV300 Panel Van Workshop Concept (2019) Rear Side 2

However, such nitpicking doesn’t detract from one of the concept’s primary purposes, which is to showcase a product called Roam. Essentially, it’s a portable power unit that recycles old batteries from the Nissan Leaf electric car. Capacity is rated at 700 Wh, while maximum output is 1 kW.

Nissan Energy intends to start selling the Roam in Europe this spring. Prices have yet to be announced.

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