2014 Kawasaki Z1000SX unveiled

September 11, 2013, 11:19 am

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The Kawasaki Z1000SX sports tourer is getting a comprehensive overhaul for 2014.

Although its four-cylinder engine’s capacity remains unchanged at 1,043 cc, various tweaks lift power from 136 bhp (101 kW / 138 PS) to 140 bhp (104 kW / 142 PS) resulting in a more instant throttle response. Furthermore, the Z1000SX is fitted for the first time with the KTRC three-mode electronic traction control system, which works together with two rider-selectable power settings.

More dynamic handling is promised from a recalibrated front fork and a revised rear suspension set-up that now features a stiffer spring and remote preload adjuster. Completing the chassis upgrades are new Tokico monobloc brake calipers for the front petal discs.

Visually the most obvious change is the redesigned panniers, which in the UK will be optional on the regular Z1000SX but standard on the Z1000SX Tourer. Despite their unusual shape, each has a capacity of 28 litres and can accommodate a full-face helmet. When mounted, the total width of the bike is a comparatively slim 925 mm (36.4”), which should mean filtering isn’t too much of a struggle.

UK prices for the 2014 Kawasaki Z1000SX and Z1000SX Tourer have yet to be announced.

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BMW C Evolution electric scooter

September 11, 2013, 3:31 pm

≫ Next: Vauxhall Ampera price cut

≪ Previous: 2014 Kawasaki Z1000SX unveiled

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BMW has unveiled the production version of its C Evolution electric maxi scooter at the Frankfurt motor show.

As expected, the styling and specifications are virtually identical to those of the prototype that was first revealed just over a year ago.

Power comes from an air-cooled electric motor that is nominally rated at 14 bhp (11 kW / 15 PS) but has a peak output of 46 bhp (35 kW / 47 PS). Combined with a maximum torque figure of 72 Nm (53 lb/ft), performance is acceptably brisk: acceleration from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes 6.2 seconds, although top speed is limited to 75 mph (120 km/h).

That restriction is doubtless in place to help maximise range from the 8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which BMW claims should be around 62 miles (100 kilometres). Recharging using a domestic socket takes about four hours.

Energy recuperation is also available on the move thanks to a regeneration system that kicks in when either coasting or braking. The extent of its operation, along with the degree of power available, can be controlled via four selectable riding modes.

As with every new BMW two-wheeler, anti-lock brakes are fitted as standard. Also available on the options list will be Torque Control Assist, which effectively acts as a traction control system.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but the C Evolution’s overall running costs and practicality are bound to draw direct comparison with BMW’s existing petrol-powered C 600 Sport and C 650 GT maxi scooters.

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Vauxhall Ampera price cut

September 12, 2013, 12:07 pm

≫ Next: 2014 Kawasaki Ninja 300 Special Edition

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Vauxhall has decided to drop the price of its Ampera range-extender by £3,500.

Consequently the entry-level Positiv version now costs £28,750 on the road, after applying the government’s £5,000 plug-in car grant. That actually makes the Vauxhall cheaper than the practically identical Chevrolet Volt, which retails for £30,255 including the grant.

The more generously equipped Ampera Electron also benefits from the same reduction, so its price tag has fallen to £30,495.

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Image © General Motors.

2014 Kawasaki Ninja 300 Special Edition

September 12, 2013, 3:35 pm

≫ Next: Suzuki iV-4 concept revealed

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Kawasaki has launched a Special Edition version of the compact Ninja 300 sports bike.

Differentiating it from the regular model are a protective tank pad, red wheel rim tapes and a unique green and black paintjob that’s inspired by Kawasaki’s World Superbike Championship livery.

Everything else remains the same, including the 296 cc, twin-cylinder, fuel-injected engine that develops 38 bhp (29 kW / 39 PS) with 27 Nm (20 lb/ft) of peak torque.

The Ninja 300 Special Edition will be available either with or without anti-lock brakes. Sales are due to begin towards the end of this year, but prices have yet to be confirmed.

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Suzuki iV-4 concept revealed

September 13, 2013, 12:23 pm

≫ Next: 2014 Nissan X-Trail unveiled

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Although Suzuki is calling the iV-4 a concept, it closely resembles a production model that’s due to be launched in Europe.

Measuring 4,215 mm (13’ 10”) long and 1,850 mm (6’ 1”) wide, the five-door iV-4 will be joining an increasingly crowded compact SUV segment. Among its various potential rivals are the Nissan Juke, Peugeot 2008 and Chevrolet Trax.

Apart from its dimensions, the promise of low carbon dioxide emissions and confirmation that the range is to include all-wheel drive versions, specification details are sparse for now. However, Suzuki has said that there’ll be plenty of opportunities for personalisation.

Buyers are going to have to wait a while for the iV-4’s arrival in dealers though, as sales aren’t scheduled to begin until sometime during 2015.

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2014 Nissan X-Trail unveiled

September 13, 2013, 3:55 pm

≫ Next: 2014 Yamaha FJR1300AE launched

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Globally, the X-Trail SUV is a big seller for Nissan. So the arrival of an all-new third generation model is an important occasion for the brand.

Compared to previous versions, the design has been somewhat softened in an effort to broaden the X-Trail’s appeal to those buyers considering a crossover. That strategy is borne out by the availability of a seven-seat option, a more premium cabin finish and various configurations for the boot space.

Although powertrain details have yet to be released, Nissan is saying that the engines are going to be downsized compared to the 2.0 litre diesel used in the current X-Trail to help improve fuel economy. Other measures taken to maximise efficiency include the increased use of lightweight materials and better aerodynamics.

Thanks to Nissan’s All Mode 4x4i system, drivers will be able to select two-wheel drive, automatic all-wheel drive or permanent four-wheel drive settings. Hill Descent Control should also be of benefit over rough terrain, while Active Ride Control adaptive damping, Active Engine Brake and Active Trace Control have been engineered to enhance on-road ride and handling.

Sales of the 2014 Nissan X-Trail, which will be built at nine locations around the world, are planned to begin next July.

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2014 Yamaha FJR1300AE launched

September 14, 2013, 12:01 pm

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The Yamaha FJR1300 sports tourer range has been augmented by the appearance of a third model.

Called the FJR1300AE, the new arrival takes the specification of the entry-level FJR1300A and adds an electronically-adjustable suspension system that incorporates upside-down front forks. With four preload options and soft, standard or hard damper modes, it offers a total of twelve rider-selectable settings.

As per the rest of the FJR line-up, power comes from a 1,298 cc four-cylinder engine that develops 144 bhp (107 kW / 146 PS). For the AE it comes connected to a conventional five-speed gearbox, rather than the clutchless transmission used in the more expensive AS variant.

Yamaha FJR1300 - UK on the road prices*
FJR1300A	£13,632
FJR1300AE	£14,632
FJR1300AS	£15,332
*Including first registration fee and 12 months’ vehicle tax.

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2014 BTCC calendar

September 15, 2013, 8:25 am

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Series organiser TOCA has announced the dates for the 2014 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship.

Compared to this season, the calendar is virtually unchanged. The number of rounds, the circuits and the order in which the series visits them are all identical to 2013.

There has been some fine-tuning, though. The fifth round at Croft has been pushed back to the end of June, a sensible move that reduces the long summer break from six to five weeks, while Rockingham appears on the schedule a week earlier.

2014 British Touring Car Championship - Calendar
Date	Circuit	Location
30 March	Brands Hatch (Indy circuit)	Nr. Dartford, Kent
20 April	Donington Park	Nr. Castle Donington, Leicestershire
4 May	Thruxton	Nr. Andover, Hampshire
8 June	Oulton Park	Nr. Tarporley, Cheshire
29 June	Croft	Nr. Darlington, North Yorkshire
3 August	Snetterton	Nr. Attleborough, Norfolk
24 August	Knockhill	Nr. Dunfermline, Fife
7 September	Rockingham	Nr. Corby, Northamptonshire
28 September	Silverstone	Nr. Towcester, Northamptonshire
12 October	Brands Hatch (GP circuit)	Nr. Dartford, Kent
Dates shown are the Sunday of each race weekend.

Each round will again involve three races, all of which are going to be shown live on ITV4.

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Royal Enfield Continental GT café racer

September 16, 2013, 3:27 pm

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The latest Royal Enfield brings a sporty flavour to the brand’s range. Called the Continental GT, it’s a stripped-down café racer that resurrects a name first used in the 1960s.

Distinguished by its solo seat unit, clip-on handlebars and sculptured tank, power comes from an upgraded version of the Bullet’s single-cylinder, fuel-injected, air-cooled engine.

Thanks to an increase in displacement from 500 to 535 cc, a revised cam and a larger throttle body, output is up to 28.7 bhp (21.4 kW / 29.1 PS) while peak torque is 44 Nm (32 lb/ft). Drive is via a five-speed gearbox.

To go with the extra performance, chassis modifications include a longer swingarm, adjustable Paiolo rear suspension and a Brembo floating disc brake for the front wheel.

Costing £5,199, UK sales of the Continental GT are due to begin next month.

That price tag makes the Royal Enfield £2,150 cheaper than the Triumph Thruxton, another retro-inspired café racer. However, given the 865 cc Thruxton has more than twice the horsepower of the Continental GT, the two bikes can hardly be considered direct rivals.

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Citroën Cactus concept revealed

September 17, 2013, 1:51 pm

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One of the more significant concepts unveiled at this year’s Frankfurt motor show was the Cactus, as it previews the future design direction for Citroën’s C-line range.

In an attempt to further differentiate them from the more upmarket DS models, the C-line cars are to focus on functionality and efficiency while retaining more than a modicum of style. Reflecting that ethos, the look of the Cactus is described by Citroën as being non-aggressive and pure.

Notable elements include the ‘floating’ roof, substantial black wheel arches, high ground clearance and a large cabin volume. One unique feature is the Airbump, a soft-skinned air capsule which is attached to vulnerable areas of the bodywork to protect against everyday scrapes.

On the inside, the main objective has been to provide maximum passenger space and comfort, something that’s helped by the Cactus’ long wheelbase. Sofa-style seat benches upholstered in cotton and leather are used front and rear, while the minimalist dashboard incorporates a 7” screen for the instruments and an 8” touchscreen to control most of the other functions.

Whether every aspect of the concept makes it into production remains to be seen, though. That includes the powertrain, which uses a compressed air-based hybrid system to achieve a claimed fuel economy figure of over 94 mpg (around 3.0 l/100km).

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Datsun Go+ unveiled

September 17, 2013, 3:53 pm

≫ Next: Alfa Romeo 4C price announced

≪ Previous: Citroën Cactus concept revealed

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Following the launch of the Go hatchback in July, the revived Datsun brand has announced a second new model named the Go+.

Specially designed for the Indonesian market, it’s an MPV with 5+2 seating. Up to the B pillar the Go+ is identical to the supermini-sized Go, but aft of that an increased overall body length of 3,995 mm (13’ 1”) provides extra space for either more cargo or an optional third row of seats. Power comes from a 1.2 litre petrol engine connected to a five-speed manual transmission.

Both the Go and Go+ will be built at Nissan’s plant in Purwakarta, Indonesia. Sales are due to begin next year with prices set below 100 million rupiah (roughly £5,530 or €6,600 at current exchange rates).

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Alfa Romeo 4C price announced

September 18, 2013, 6:33 am

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At first glance, the £45,000 that Alfa Romeo will be charging for its new 4C sports coupé seems rather expensive.

But hang on a moment - this is a mid-engine two-seater with a carbon fibre monocoque chassis, which is going to be assembled at Maserati’s Modena factory at a rate of just 3,500 units per year. Suddenly that price tag is beginning to look a lot more reasonable?

Even so, some critics might still bemoan the relatively humble 1,750 cc four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. Actually, the 4C’s dry weight of 895 kg (1,973 lbs) makes such a motor ideal, especially as it produces 236 bhp (176 kW / 240 PS) with a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb/ft) peak torque figure.

Unsurprisingly, the resultant power-to-weight ratio is a boon for performance: the Alfa can accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.5 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 160 mph (257 km/h). Equally as noteworthy are the 41.5 mpg (6.8 l/100km) achieved on the combined cycle and carbon dioxide emissions of 157 g/km.

The 4C won’t be without some accomplished rivals, though. An extra £3,783 would buy a Porsche Cayman S, for example, while the Lotus Elise S is £7,850 cheaper than the Italian car.

UK orders for the Alfa Romeo 4C are being accepted from next month, ahead of the first deliveries which are expected sometime during 2014.

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TVS Jupiter scooter launched

September 18, 2013, 3:45 pm

≫ Next: Honda Mobilio prototype unveiled

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Indian manufacturer TVS has unveiled the latest addition to its range, the Jupiter scooter.

Power comes from an all-aluminium, four-stroke, air-cooled 110 cc engine that develops 7.9 bhp (5.9 kW / 8.0 PS). Connected to a V-matic transmission, it features both kick and electric starters, an Econometer and a choice of either Eco or Power modes. Claimed average fuel consumption is a class-leading 175.1 mpg (1.6 l/100km / 62 km/l).

To help maximise practicality, the Jupiter has a large leg space, retractable bag hooks and a 17 litre under-seat storage compartment that can accommodate a full-face helmet.

Also included in the specification are alloy wheels with tubeless tyres, a low fuel warning light, an LED rear light cluster and TVS’ patented EZ centre stand. The seat height is 765 mm (30.1”), while ground clearance is 150 mm (5.9”).

With buyers able to select from Midnight Black, Titanium Grey, Volcano Red or Pristine White paintwork, the TVS Jupiter is priced at Rs. 44,200 ex-showroom in Delhi (about £430 or €515 at current exchange rates).

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Honda Mobilio prototype unveiled

September 19, 2013, 10:59 am

≫ Next: Caterham AeroSeven Concept

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The Honda Mobilio is a new seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle that has been specially developed for Asian markets.

Revealed in prototype form at the Indonesia International Motor Show, it combines a 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine with a high ground clearance of 185 mm (7.3”) to better cope with local road conditions.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but Honda is saying the Mobilio will be aimed at the low-cost end of the MPV segment. Production is scheduled to begin in Indonesia next January.

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Caterham AeroSeven Concept

September 21, 2013, 11:56 am

≫ Next: 2014 Triumph Speed Triple R

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Caterham last created another model based on its long-running Seven back in 1994. The result was the unsuccessful 21, which had a production run of less than 50 cars.

Doubtless the firm will be hoping for a better reaction to the AeroSeven, just revealed in concept form at the Singapore Grand Prix ahead of sales beginning in a year’s time. The newcomer’s reception could be influenced by its styling, though.

Designed to enhance aerodynamics and downforce, the full-width carbon fibre bodywork looks fine from the rear and side, although the proportions might be better balanced by the addition of a shallow-angle windscreen. But that wouldn’t affect the frontal aspect, which is certainly the most challenging element. It just manages to fall on the right side of the distinctive / ugly divide…

Based on the Seven CSR chassis, the AeroSeven features F1-inspired pushrod front suspension, while the rear end has a fully independent set-up.

Power comes from the same normally-aspirated, 2.0 litre, Ford-based motor that’s used in the Seven 485. With an output of 237 bhp (176 kW / 240 PS), the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint is reckoned to take less than four seconds.

One key innovation is the specially-developed engine management system, which provides adjustable launch and traction control functionality. Another potential departure concerns the brakes, as Caterham has said a Bosch race-derived anti-lock system might appear on production versions.

Inside the AeroSeven, the cockpit is dominated by a centrally-mounted graphical display that shows all of the car’s instrumentation. Otherwise, it’s suitably sparse.

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2014 Triumph Speed Triple R

September 22, 2013, 12:05 pm

≫ Next: 2014 911 Turbo and Turbo S Cabriolets

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Following the launch of the regular 2014 Speed Triple back in June, Triumph has unveiled the latest ‘R’ version.

Although the chassis set-up and 1,050 cc three-cylinder engine are unchanged, the updated bike gains some additional items of standard equipment. These include a switchable anti-lock braking system, belly pan, fly screen and seat cowl.

There have been some cosmetic tweaks, too. The original rear light cluster has been swapped for a clear item, the exhaust heat shield has a black finish and the radiator covers are painted Diablo Red to match the rear sub-frame and wheel pinstripes.

Available now with a choice of Phantom Black or matt Crystal White paintwork, the 2014 Speed Triple R has an on the road price tag of £10,999. Considering last year’s model cost £11,949 with ABS, that’s a comparative bargain.

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2014 911 Turbo and Turbo S Cabriolets

September 23, 2013, 9:11 am

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Ahead of their public debuts at November’s Los Angeles Auto Show, Porsche has revealed its new 911 Turbo Cabriolet and Turbo S Cabriolet.

As per the recently launched coupé versions, both models are powered by a 3.8 litre twin-turbo engine that comes connected to a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. There’s no manual gearbox option.

With an output of 513 bhp (383 kW / 520 PS), the regular 911 Turbo Cabriolet can accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 195 mph (315 km/h). Thanks to its extra 39 bhp (29 kW / 40 PS), the ‘S’ variant completes the benchmark sprint in 3.2 seconds and it’ll hit 197 mph (318 km/h).

That doesn’t seem like a huge performance advantage, but at least efficiency is unaffected: a combined cycle fuel economy figure of 28.5 mpg (9.9 l/100km) and carbon dioxide emissions of 231 g/km are identical for each version.

Helping to keep the latest 911 Turbo Cabriolets on the road are the Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive system, rear-wheel steering and active aerodynamics courtesy of an adjustable front spoiler and rear wing.

Sales are due to begin this December. UK prices have yet to be announced, but in Germany the 911 Turbo Cabriolet costs €174,431 including VAT. The 911 Turbo S Cabriolet meanwhile is €207,989.

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BMW R 1200 R DarkWhite edition

September 23, 2013, 12:04 pm

≫ Next: 2014 V-Strom 1000 specifications

≪ Previous: 2014 911 Turbo and Turbo S Cabriolets

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BMW has launched a special version of the naked R 1200 R.

As its DarkWhite name implies, the highlight is a contrasting colour scheme that mixes white bodywork with an asphalt grey frame, black wheels and powertrain, black anodised fork tubes and a matt black finish for the rear swingarm and front wishbone. Completing the package are a sports windshield and a sports seat.

UK availability has yet to be confirmed, but in Germany sales begin on the 1st of October. There, the R 1200 R DarkWhite will cost €13,000 including VAT.

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2014 V-Strom 1000 specifications

September 24, 2013, 11:54 am

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It has been almost a year since the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 was first unveiled in concept form. Now, with the bike’s launch date scheduled for February next year, some technical specifications have been confirmed.

Powering the V-Strom is a new liquid-cooled, 1,036 cc, V-twin engine which sits inside a twin-spar aluminium frame. It develops 98 bhp (74 kW / 100 PS) at 8,000 rpm but, perhaps more importantly for this type of machine, 103 Nm (76 lb/ft) of peak torque is available at just 4,000 rpm.

An anti-lock braking system is going to be fitted as standard, along with traction control and an adjustable windscreen. Buyers will also be able to choose from a wide selection of cost options, including a three-piece hard luggage set, hand guards and extra spotlights.

While an exact UK price has yet to be announced, Suzuki has said the V-Strom 1000 is likely to cost around £10,000.

That kind of figure would make it slightly more expensive than rivals such as the £9,599 Kawasaki Versys 1000, but significantly cheaper than benchmark adventure bikes like the £11,199 Triumph Tiger Explorer, £11,650 BMW R 1200 GS and £12,595 KTM 1190 Adventure.

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Mercedes-Benz to join BTCC grid

September 25, 2013, 2:24 pm

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Next season’s Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship is going to see at least one more manufacturer represented.

That’s because Ciceley Racing has just revealed it is developing a brand new Mercedes-Benz A-Class for the series. Built according to the latest Next Generation Touring Car regulations, the five-door hatchback will replace the Toyota Avensis that the Lancashire-based outfit currently runs.

Adam Morgan, who was the Ginetta G55 Supercup Champion in 2011, is being retained as the team’s driver.

Commenting on the change, Ciceley Racing Team Principal Russell Morgan said, “It’s great to finally announce our plans for 2014, the switch made sense for us in many different ways. With Paul Ridgway at the helm of the project holding high aspirations and Adam continuing to mature as a driver, we think that the A-Class can be a competitive package in the series next year.”

The 2014 British Touring Car Championship begins at Brands Hatch on the 30th of March.

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