Fiat 500L Living / MPW unveiled

June 19, 2013, 4:29 am

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Fiat is further extending its 500 family with the launch of the 500L Living, which is going to be known as the Multi Purpose Wagon (or MPW for short) in the UK.

With three rows of seats in a vehicle measuring just 4.35 metres (14’ 3”) long, the 500L MPW is a modern-day reinterpretation of the 600 Multipla that first appeared in 1956.

However, Fiat is describing the new arrival as having a ‘5 + 2’ seating arrangement, which implies the third row is probably best suited for children or very occasional adult use.

When sales begin later this year, UK buyers will have a choice of either Pop Star or Lounge trim grades. The engine line-up meanwhile comprises two petrol and two diesel options.

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2014 Corvette Stingray coupé UK price

June 19, 2013, 1:15 pm

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Chevrolet has announced that its new Corvette Stingray coupé will cost from £61,495 when UK sales begin this autumn.

By contrast, prices in the United States for the seventh-generation Corvette are going to start at $51,995, which is about £33,200 at current exchange rates. That’s a huge difference, and the discrepancy is only partly explained by a more generous specification for European markets.

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupé. Scroll down for more images.

Among the extra items of standard equipment is the Z51 Performance Package. It consists of closer ratio gears, dry-sump lubrication, an electronic limited-slip differential, 19” front / 20” rear forged alloy wheels, aerodynamic tweaks and enhanced cooling for the transmission, brakes and differential.

Also fitted is a performance exhaust system that allows the 6,162 cc (376 cu. in.) LT1 V8 engine to produce 460 bhp (343 kW / 466 PS) instead of the usual 450 bhp (335 kW / 456 PS). Peak torque is similarly increased by 20 Nm (15 lb/ft) to 630 Nm (465 lb/ft).

With no automatic transmission being offered in Europe, that output is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed manual gearbox with ‘Active Rev Matching’ on up- and down-shifts. Official performance figures have yet to be released, but Chevrolet is expecting a sub-four second 0-60 mph (96 km/h) acceleration time.

Additionally, magnetic ride control suspension and the performance traction management system are included in the price. However, remaining on the options list are satellite navigation (£1,450) and metallic paint (£600), which seems rather mean.

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Images © General Motors.

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante

June 20, 2013, 10:21 am

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Aston Martin has unveiled the Vanquish Volante, which has the distinction of being the first carbon fibre-skinned convertible in the marque’s history.

Combined with a bonded aluminium chassis structure, the result is a weight of 1,844 kg (4,065 lbs). Furthermore, Aston Martin is saying the new arrival’s torsional stiffness is 14% better than its DBS Volante predecessor.

Rather than a complicated folding rigid roof, the 2+2 Vanquish Volante features a triple-layer fabric hood that can be retracted in 14 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph (48 km/h). In a useful nod to practicality, the boot’s luggage capacity remains at 279 litres whether the roof is up or down.

Power comes from the same 565 bhp (421 kW / 573 PS) AM11 6.0 litre V12 engine that’s used in the existing Vanquish coupé. The only gearbox available is a six-speed automatic transmission but, with an estimated 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 183 mph (295 km/h), there’s no shortage of performance.

The UK price for the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante has been set at £199,995, while in the United States and Germany it’ll cost $297,995 and €264,995 respectively. Customer deliveries are expected to commence towards the end of 2013.

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2014 SRT Viper GT3-R unveiled

June 21, 2013, 4:22 am

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SRT has revealed its latest competition car, the Viper GT3-R.

Developed with the assistance of Riley Technologies, it features a V10 engine, an Xtrac six-speed sequential transmission, upgraded brakes and the obligatory aero package.

Commenting on the new racing Viper, Ralph Gilles, President and CEO of SRT said: “The SRT Viper GT3-R is the next logical progression of our successful Viper GTS-R, a championship-proven formula that has captured some of the world’s most prestigious races.

“Like every Viper race car, the GT3-R is a direct descendant of the SRT Viper street car. There is no mistaking the similarities between the two which is a key component of this class of sports car racing. The GT3-R stays true to the visceral appeal of the Viper and has been carefully evolved for the demands of racing at a world class level.”

The estimated price for the new Viper GT3-R is $459,000 in the United States, which is around £297,000 or €347,000 at current exchange rates. Deliveries to race teams are expected to begin at the end of this year.

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V12 Vantage S vs. its rivals

June 21, 2013, 10:57 am

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Following its unveiling last month, Aston Martin has now announced pricing and full specifications for the new V12 Vantage S.

In the UK the cost is £138,000, an amount that pitches it against coupé rivals such as the Audi R8 V10 Plus S tronic and Porsche 911 Turbo S:

Model	V12 Vantage S	R8 V10 Plus S tronic	911 Turbo S
UK price	£138,000	£128,710	£140,852
Engine	6.0 litre V12	5.2 litre V10	3.8 litre F6
Power	565 bhp (421 kW / 573 PS)	542 bhp (405 kW / 550 PS)	552 bhp (412 kW / 560 PS)
Torque	620 Nm (457 lb/ft)	540 Nm (398 lb/ft)	700 Nm (516 lb/ft)
Transmission	7-speed automated manual	7-speed S tronic dual-clutch	7-speed PDK dual-clutch
Driven wheels	Rear	All	All
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	3.9 secs	3.5 secs	3.1 secs
Top speed	205 mph (330 km/h)	197 mph (318 km/h)	197 mph (318 km/h)
Weight	1,665 kg (3,670 lbs)	1,595 kg (3,516 lbs)	1,605 kg (3,538 lbs)

The V12 Vantage S has been priced at $184,995 for the United States market, while in Germany it costs €179,950. Buyers in Australia will have to part with A$389,300.

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Lotus Motorcycles C-01 teased

June 23, 2013, 12:31 pm

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Recently, Lotus hasn’t had the most stable period in its history, with doubts about future model plans, ownership speculation and the acrimonious departure of former chief executive Dany Bahar. But none of that has stopped the company making a surprise move into the two-wheeler market.

The first bike in the pipeline from newly-formed Lotus Motorcycles has been named the C-01. Using exotic materials such as carbon fibre and titanium, it will feature an engine producing around 200 horsepower (about 150 kW). That’s a similar output to established sports bikes such as the BMW S 1000 RR and Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R.

No other technical details have been divulged, but Lotus has confirmed the C-01 is going to be built in collaboration with race car manufacturer Kodewa and components supplier Holzer Group.

Design meanwhile is the responsibility of ex-Bugatti employee Daniel Simon, who commented: “With the Lotus C-01, we have only one ambition: to create a unique state-of-the-art machine that carries its brutal forces with elegance and style, a high-tech monster in a tailored suit. The C-01, with all its top notch components and materials, is first and foremost emotional, heart-breaking, at times playfully retro, and always clearly a Lotus.

“Lotus is a glamorous name with a rich history, and the C-01 celebrates it proudly: the shapes of the marvellous Lotus 49 were a main inspiration, and all colour schemes pay homage to iconic Lotus racing liveries, such as the dashing black and gold. The intersection of past and future never fails to fascinate, and so does the unique idea of the C-01.”

For now, only a teaser shot of the bike’s fuel tank has been released, but further images are due to appear over the coming weeks.

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Honda Activa i scooter launched

June 24, 2013, 3:21 pm

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The arrival of the new Activa i marks Honda’s entry into the Indian personal scooter market, a segment that accounts for around a quarter of all automatic-transmission scooter sales in the country.

Power comes from a four-stroke, air-cooled 109 cc engine that produces 7.8 bhp (5.8 kW / 7.9 PS) with 8.7 Nm (6.4 lb/ft) of torque. Claimed mileage is an impressive 169.4 mpg (1.7 l/100km / 60 km/l).

Both electric- and kick-starters are fitted, and the specification also includes a Combi Brake System that’s designed to reduce stopping distances.

Available now, buyers get a choice of beige, red, purple or white colour schemes. The Honda Activa i is priced at Rs. 44,200 (ex-showroom in Delhi), which is around £480 or €560 at current exchange rates.

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2014 Triumph Speed Triple revealed

June 25, 2013, 11:24 am

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The Triumph Speed Triple is getting some extra equipment and a few cosmetic tweaks for 2014.

Switchable anti-lock brakes are now fitted as standard, as are a belly pan, black exhaust heat shields, rubber tank pads and a fly screen.

Distinguishing the 2014 model are gold decals, gold wheel pinstripes and a clear rear light. The paintwork choice has been broadened by the addition of Matt Caspian Blue, which joins the existing Phantom Black and Crystal White shades.

Mechanically things are identical to before, meaning the 1,050 cc three-cylinder engine continues to produce 133 bhp (99 kW / 135 PS) with 111 Nm (82 lb/ft) of peak torque.

The 2014 Speed Triple arrives at dealers this month, priced at £9,599 on the road in the UK.

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2014 Citroën Grand C4 Picasso

June 26, 2013, 3:21 pm

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Citroën has unveiled the new seven-seat Grand C4 Picasso.

At 4.59 m (15’ 1”) from bumper to bumper, it’s only 16 cm (6”) longer than the regular C4 Picasso that was revealed in April. However, a boxier back end means there’s enough space inside for a removable third row of seats.

Together with a longest-in-class wheelbase of 2.84 m (9’ 4”), the redesigned rear also endows the Grand C4 Picasso with neat proportions. Indeed, the result is arguably better-looking than the five-seat version.

Prices and specifications have yet to be announced, but Citroën has confirmed the engine line-up is going to include an e-HDi 90 Airdream option that emits just 98 g/km of carbon dioxide. Also available for the first time will be the BlueHDi diesel motor that combines an output of 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS) with a CO2 figure of 110 g/km.

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2014 Ford F-150 Tremor unveiled

June 27, 2013, 3:21 pm

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Ford has launched the new 2014 F-150 Tremor, which is designed to combine sporty looks with the relative economy of a V6 engine.

Based on the short-wheelbase, regular-cab F-150, it’s distinguished by ‘Tremor’ decals, HID headlights and the FX Appearance Package that consists of 20” black wheels, body-side graphics and a distinct lack of chrome trim.

The theme continues on the inside, where individual bucket seats, unique leather and Alcantara upholstery, a floor-mounted gearshift and the MyFord Touch connectivity system are all fitted as standard.

Powering the F-150 Tremor is a 3.5 litre EcoBoost motor that develops 365 bhp (272 kW / 370 PS) with 570 Nm (420 lb/ft) of torque. Also included in the specification are an electronic locking differential and, for improved acceleration, a shorter 4.10 final drive ratio on the rear axle.

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Formula One rules tweaked for 2014

June 30, 2013, 10:44 am

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Formula One will see a major difference next season, courtesy of the switch to 1.6 litre turbocharged V6 engines. But that won’t be the only change.

At its recent meeting that took place on the 28th of June, the FIA World Motorsport Council decided on several other rulebook amendments.

Regarding 2014’s Sporting Regulations, the latest alterations comprise:

• The introduction of a penalty point system for drivers. Each infringement will earn from one to three points, with those points remaining on a driver’s licence for twelve months. Once a total of twelve points is reached, a one-race ban will be imposed.


• A new procedure that allows drivers to surrender any advantage previously gained by leaving the track.


• The scrapping of the current three-day young driver test and one-day promotional days. In their place, four two-day test sessions after European races are to be sanctioned. Also, teams will be allowed to begin their pre-season track testing in January because of the new engines.


• A cut in wind tunnel testing to help reduce costs. Furthermore, teams will be permitted to share wind tunnel facilities.


• A blanket 80 km/h (50 mph) pit lane speed limit that will apply to free practice sessions, qualifying and the race. The only exceptions are the events in Melbourne, Monaco and Singapore, where a 60 km/h (37 mph) limit is going to be enforced. During a race, all personnel working on a car during pit stops will have to wear protective headgear.


• A limit of five power units per driver per season. If an additional complete power unit is used, the race has to be started from the pit lane. If an extra major component (e.g. a turbocharger) is used, then that will result in a ten-place grid penalty. Manufacturers can only homologate one power unit for the period from 2014 to 2020, but changes are permitted for reliability and cost-saving purposes.


• An increase in the number of consecutive races that a gearbox must be used for, from five to six.


• A maximum fuel use limit of 100 kg, which shall apply from the start of the race to the chequered flag.


• The allocation of an extra set of tyres to each driver for use in the first thirty minutes of the first Friday practice session. This move is to encourage teams on to the track during that time.

Additionally, Mercedes-Benz has been granted permission to supply engines to four teams. As well as the Mercedes factory team, it currently supplies McLaren and Force India. Williams will be added to that list from 2014.

Changes to the Technical Regulations for 2014 consist of:

• An increase in the minimum weight limit by 5 kg (11 lbs) to accommodate the new powertrains.


• The standardisation of side-impact structures, together with alterations to the relevant impact tests. Also, the amount of permitted cockpit rim side deflection during static load tests is being reduced from 20 mm to 5 mm.


• The permitted use of electronic control for the rear brake circuit. This is to ensure more consistent braking while the kinetic energy recovery system is active.


• New measures that make sure cars do not feature a stepped chassis behind the nose.

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2014 Mazda 3 unveiled

June 30, 2013, 2:58 pm

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Standing out in the crowded compact hatchback segment is always tough, but it’s something the new Mazda 3 could achieve. Like the recently-launched mid-size Mazda 6, it adopts the Kodo ‘Soul of Motion’ design language which has resulted in a very distinctive look.

Unlike many competitors, the 2014 Mazda 3 is actually slightly shorter and lower than the previous model. However, it has grown a little widthways and the wheelbase is marginally longer. Those increased dimensions should provide occupants with more interior space, especially in the rear.

In this sector, efficiency is going to be a prime consideration for many customers, so unsurprisingly Mazda is emphasising the application of the brand’s Skyactiv Technology ethos. Covering aspects such as component weight, engines, transmissions and the use of stop-start and brake energy regeneration systems, it promises to deliver decent fuel economy and low emissions. Figures to back up the claims have yet to be released, though.

Buyers in Europe will initially have a choice of four engines: a 1.5 litre petrol, a 2.0 litre petrol in two states of tune or a 2.2 litre diesel. Sales are due to begin this autumn, but prices have yet to be confirmed.

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First new Datsun model teased

July 1, 2013, 8:24 am

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The reborn Datsun brand has released a preview sketch of its first new model, which will be unveiled in India on the 15th of July.

No specification details have been published and it’s yet to be named, but sales are due to begin in 2014.

Datsun’s strategy is to target immature territories that have a burgeoning demand for car ownership. As well as India, the countries on its list so far are Russia, Indonesia and South Africa.

Explaining that approach, Vincent Cobee, Head of Datsun, said: “Datsun will bring competitive products and services, modern and aspirational, while at the same time reassuring, providing superior value and specifically developed for the emerging and ambitious new Middle Class in high-growth markets.

“The Datsun cars will be locally developed with the support of Nissan Motor Company engineers and stylists and will be locally produced.”

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Suzuki V-Strom 650 Voyager Pack

July 1, 2013, 10:13 am

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Suzuki has launched a fourth accessory set for its mid-size V-Strom 650 ABS. The new Voyager Pack, which joins the existing Adventure, Tourer and GT packages, is available now.

Its specification comprises:

• Aluminium panniers with a combined volume of 82 litres.
• A detachable dry roll bag that adds a further 35 litres of luggage capacity.
• Hand guards.
• A larger Vario touring screen.
• Accessory bars, which protect the radiator side cowls.
• A tank protector.
• A lower engine cowling.

In the UK, the basic Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS is currently priced at £7,032 on the road. Ordering the Voyager Pack will add £1,399 (including VAT and fitting) to that amount, taking the total cost up to £8,431.

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Subaru XV prices slashed

July 2, 2013, 3:59 pm

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Anybody in the UK who recently bought a Subaru XV is probably a bit peeved right now, because prices have just been cut by £2,300 across the range.

The reason given for the reductions is a more favourable exchange rate between sterling and the Japanese yen. As a result, the lead-in 1.6i S model now costs a much more palatable £18,995.

However, the Subaru still appears expensive compared to some of its crossover rivals. Prices for the Kia Sportage start at £17,495 for example, while the entry-level Nissan Qashqai is a relative bargain at £16,895.

That apparent disparity is partly explained by all-wheel drive, which is fitted as standard on all XV models. By comparison, the cheapest variants of the Kia and Nissan with that particular feature cost £21,795 and £25,145 respectively.

While those amounts might make the Subaru seem competitive, it should be remembered that a large proportion of customers in this segment tend to opt for front-wheel drive. On that basis at least, the XV could even now have quite a price disadvantage.

Subaru XV - UK Prices
Petrol
1.6i S	£18,995
1.6i S Lineartronic	£20,415
1.6i SE	£20,995
1.6i SE Lineartronic	£22,415
2.0i SE	£21,995
2.0i SE Lineartronic	£23,495
2.0i SE Lux Premium	£25,795
2.0i SE Lux Premium Lineartronic	£27,925
Diesel
2.0D S	£21,995
2.0D SE	£23,995
2.0D SE Lux Premium	£27,695

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Insignia Country Tourer unveiled

July 3, 2013, 7:13 am

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Vauxhall / Opel has revealed its contender for the small (but growing) SUV-inspired estate car segment. Called the Insignia Country Tourer, it features all-wheel drive, a raised ride height, some extra body cladding and under-bumper bash plates.

Both the Vauxhall and Opel versions are going to be offered with a choice of two 2.0 litre diesel engines. The first is a 160 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS) unit, which comes connected to either manual or automatic six-speed transmissions.

For those wanting a bit more power, the alternative is a BiTurbo motor that develops 192 bhp (143 kW / 195 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque. It’s only available with an automatic gearbox, though.

Additionally, Opel buyers will be able to specify a 246 bhp (184 kW / 250 PS) 2.0 litre SIDI turbocharged petrol engine. However, for now at least, that option is being denied to customers in the UK.

To ensure its all-terrain abilities live up to the looks, the Country Tourer boasts an all-wheel drive system that’s based around a Haldex clutch and an electronic limited slip differential on the rear axle. Consequently, torque can be switched instantaneously to whichever wheels have the best grip, thereby maintaining traction over rough or slippery surfaces.

The Insignia Country Tourer is due to make its public debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, when final specifications and pricing will be announced.

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Images © General Motors.

2014 Yamaha XV950 and XV950R

July 3, 2013, 1:54 pm

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Yamaha has launched the bobber-styled XV950 and XV950R across Europe. Essentially rebadged versions of the 2014 Bolt that’s sold in North America by sister brand Star Motorcycles, the new arrivals are competitors for bikes such as the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 and Kawasaki VN900 Custom.

Built around a double-cradle steel frame, the XV950’s minimalist look is defined by its teardrop fuel tank, 12-spoke cast wheels, low seat height of just 690 mm (27.2”) and lack of chrome.

Power comes from a 942 cc, air-cooled, V-twin engine which produces 51 bhp (38 kW / 52 PS) with 79 Nm (58 lb/ft) of torque. That output is sent to the rear wheel via a five-speed transmission and a belt drive system.

In the UK, the XV950 is priced at £7,199 on the road and buyers have a choice of Midnight Black or Competition White paintwork.

Alternatively, the XV950R costs £7,499. Offered in Camo Green or Matt Grey colour schemes, its additional specification consists of a buckskin-look saddle cover, sportier ‘piggy back’ style rear dampers and a fuel tank stripe.

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Top 10: UK car sales Q2 2013

July 4, 2013, 7:24 am

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Following sixteen consecutive months of growth, UK car registrations during the first half of 2013 were up 10% on the same period last year.

According to data just published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, the actual figure achieved was 1,163,623 registrations. Much of the increase has been fuelled by private buyers, with low interest rates, a fairly steady housing market and relatively stable employment prospects all cited as reasons for rising levels of consumer confidence.

Some manufacturers did better than others though, and the strongest performances were those of Mitsubishi (+42% year-on-year), Suzuki (+34%) and Jaguar (+22%).

At the other end of the spectrum, some notably poor results were posted by Chevrolet (-23%, and now out-sold by Dacia), Alfa Romeo (-33%) and MG (-76%, with just 129 cars registered).

One thing that didn’t vary much was the top ten model list. Indeed, the first seven places were unchanged, meaning the Ford Fiesta can still lay claim to being the UK’s most popular car.

Ford Fiesta: Still the UK's most popular car.

Further down the table, both the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Nissan Juke left the top ten league. They were replaced by the BMW 1 Series and 3 Series.

Top 10: Cumulative UK Car Registrations Q2 2013
Position	Manufacturer	Model	Registrations
1	Ford	Fiesta	63,040
2	Ford	Focus	47,675
3	Vauxhall	Corsa	46,147
4	Vauxhall	Astra	33,731
5	Volkswagen	Golf	32,131
6	Nissan	Qashqai	27,112
7	Volkswagen	Polo	23,287
8	BMW	3 Series	21,588
9	Peugeot	208	20,815
10	BMW	1 Series	20,007

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MG introduces 0% VAT offer

July 4, 2013, 3:34 pm

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Despite the recent launch of a much-needed diesel version, sales of the MG6 have been disappointing. Just 129 examples were registered in the UK during the first six months of 2013, a 76% reduction on the same period last year.

With 41 dealers in MG’s network, that figure represents an average of just three cars per outlet. Factoring in that some of those will probably have been demonstrators just makes the situation even bleaker.

Clearly it’s an issue that demands drastic action. So, in an attempt to attract some more customers, MG has begun a ‘0% VAT’ promotion that’ll run throughout July and August.

As a result, the entry-level MG6 GT 1.8 S is going to cost £12,968.58 instead of the usual £15,455. At the other end of the scale, the range-topping Magnette 1.9 Diesel’s price is temporarily cut from £21,590 to £17,988.58.

It’s a strategy that undoubtedly makes the MG6 a much better value proposition. Whether or not sales will be significantly increased remains to be seen, but perhaps the potential impact would have been greater had the peak registration month of September been included in the offer period.

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Honda Jazz ES Plus launched

July 5, 2013, 12:48 pm

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Honda has added a new ES Plus trim grade to its Jazz supermini range.

Replacing the ES models, the ES Plus versions gain rear privacy glass, a leather-covered steering wheel and gear knob, cruise control and larger 16” alloy wheels. That’s in addition to the already fairly comprehensive specification of the ES, which included electrically heated and foldable door mirrors, four electric windows and climate control.

As with its predecessor, power for the Jazz ES Plus comes from a 1.4 litre petrol engine producing 98 bhp (72 kW / 99 PS). Buyers can choose either a five-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable automatic transmission.

One drawback is the ES Plus costs £495 more than the outgoing ES. Also available are the ES-T Plus variants, which feature satellite navigation and Bluetooth connectivity for an extra £995:

Honda Jazz ES Plus - UK Prices
ES Plus manual	£14,495
ES-T Plus manual	£15,490
ES Plus CVT	£15,595
ES-T Plus CVT	£16,590

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