Quantcast
Channel: Autoesque
Viewing all 2670 articles
Browse latest View live

Royal Enfield accessory kits

0
0
Royal Enfield has released a pair of accessory kits for its Bullet Classic range.

The first is the trials-inspired T5, which includes an alloy bash plate, braced scrambler handlebars, some graphics and a set of Continental Twinduro tyres for better off-road performance. To existing owners the cost is £251, but Royal Enfield is also offering brand new T5-equipped Bullet Classic, Battle Green and Desert Storm bikes for £5,395.

Royal Enfield Bullet Classic Battle Green T5 (2012) Side

Alternatively, the Sports kit has been designed to evoke café racers of the 1960s. Priced at £353.95, it comprises a ‘Gold Star’ style exhaust silencer, drop handlebars with bar-end mirrors and a fly screen. Buyers can also purchase a new Bullet Classic Chrome complete with the Sports pack for £5,595.

Royal Enfield Bullet Classic Chrome Sports (2012) Front Side

Related posts:
Unique Barbour sidecar outfit
Bullet Classic Desert Storm
New Bullet Classic Chrome

2013 BMW Z4 sDrive18i

0
0
BMW has given its Z4 roadster a minor facelift, taking the opportunity to introduce a new entry-level variant at the same time.

Only Z4 aficionados are going to be able to spot the styling changes though, because they’re restricted to revised headlights and chrome side gills that now incorporate LED indicators.

BMW Z4 sDrive35is (2013) Front Side

BMW Z4 sDrive35is (2013) Rear Side

However, the good news for potential customers is that the new sDrive18i model means Z4 prices will start from £27,610.

While the name implies a 1.8 litre capacity, power actually comes from a detuned version of the existing 2.0 litre turbocharged engine that produces 153 bhp (114 kW / 156 PS) and 240 Nm (177 lb/ft) of torque. Despite the reduced output it’s no slouch, as the sDrive18i can complete the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in 7.9 seconds before going onto a top speed of 137 mph (220 km/h).

Perhaps surprisingly, the sDrive18i doesn’t bring any efficiency benefits: its average fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions figures of 41.5 mpg (6.8 l/100km) and 159 g/km respectively are identical to those achieved by the sDrive20i and sDrive28i versions.

Sales of the 2013 BMW Z4 range are due to begin this March.

Related posts:
2013 BMW M6 Gran Coupé
BMW Concept 4 Series Coupé

Beetle Fender UK prices

0
0
Volkswagen has confirmed that the Beetle Fender limited edition, which was first unveiled at the Leipzig International Auto Show earlier this year, is coming to the UK.

Available only with a 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) 2.0 litre diesel engine, the specification includes 18” ‘Discus’ alloy wheels, some Fender badges, front and rear parking sensors, a rear spoiler, bi-xenon headlights and a 400 watt Fender audio system.

Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition (2012) Front SideVolkswagen Beetle Fender Edition (2012) Dashboard

Volkswagen Beetle Fender Edition (2012) SideVolkswagen Beetle Fender Edition (2012) Rear Side

The sole paintwork option is Deep Pearl Black, while the interior features matching cloth seats with leather-look side bolsters plus a ‘Sunburst’ dashboard panel that replicates Fender’s guitars.

In the UK the Beetle Fender is priced at £23,015 with a manual gearbox, while the DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission version costs an extra £1,595. Dealers will be accepting orders from the 2nd of January.

Related posts:
US Beetle Fender Edition
Beetle Fender Edition
2012 Volkswagen Beetle

2013 Fiesta Van launched

0
0
Following the Fiesta passenger car’s facelift back in September, Ford has now applied a similar treatment to the van version.

The exterior updates focus on a restyled front end which incorporates a larger single grille, new headlights with LED daytime running lights and a redesigned bonnet. On the inside, new switchgear, displays and seat materials all feature and the centre console has been modified.

Ford Fiesta Van (2013) Front Side

Operators will have a choice of 1.25 litre petrol, 1.5 litre diesel or 1.6 litre diesel engines. In ECOnetic guise, the 1.6 litre unit achieves a creditable 85.6 mpg (3.3 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 87 g/km thanks partly to lowered suspension, a stop-start system, low rolling-resistance tyres, an aerodynamic rear under-tray and special wheel trims.

As would be expected for a vehicle of its size, the Fiesta Van isn’t particularly commodious. Nevertheless, it offers a one cubic metre load space and can accommodate payloads of up to 508 kg (1,120 lbs).

The 2013 Fiesta Van is available to order now, with customer deliveries due to start in January.

Related post:
European Fiesta updated

2013 Škoda Octavia engines

0
0
Following the unveiling of its new third-generation Octavia earlier this month, Škoda has now confirmed an initial engine line-up.

Skoda Octavia (2013) Front Side

As expected, there’s a selection of Volkswagen-sourced petrol and diesel units, all of which have been created with a particular emphasis on efficiency (most come as standard with stop-start and brake energy recuperation systems), improved thermal management, reduced weight and more compact dimensions.

2013 Škoda Octavia - Petrol Engines
Capacity 1.2 TSI 1.2 TSI Green tec 1.4 TSI Green tec 1.8 TSI Green tec
Induction Turbo Turbo Turbo Turbo
Power 84 bhp (63 kW / 86 PS) 103 bhp (77 kW / 105 PS) 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS)
Transmission 5-speed manual 6-speed manual / 7-speed DSG 6-speed manual / 7-speed DSG 7-speed DSG
Combined cycle fuel consumption 54.3 mpg (5.2 l/100km) 57.6 mpg (4.9 l/100km) 53.2 mpg (5.3 l/100km) 49.5 mpg (5.7 l/100km)
CO2 emissions 119 g/km 114 g/km 121 g/km 131 g/km
2013 Škoda Octavia - Diesel Engines
Capacity 1.6 TDI 1.6 TDI Green tec 1.6 TDI GreenLine 2.0 TDI Green tec
Induction Turbo Turbo Turbo Turbo
Power 88 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS) 103 bhp (77 kW / 105 PS) 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS) 147 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS)
Transmission 5-speed manual 5-speed manual / 7-speed DSG 6-speed manual 6-speed manual / 6-speed DSG
Combined cycle fuel consumption 68.8 mpg (4.1 l/100km) 74.3 mpg (3.8 l/100km) 83.0 mpg (3.4 l/100km) 62.7 mpg (4.5 l/100km)
CO2 emissions 109 g/km 99 g/km 89 g/km 119 g/km

To augment the range, both high-performance vRS and natural gas-powered versions are promised for the future, although the latter is unlikely to make it to the UK.

Related posts:
2013 Škoda Octavia revealed
2013 Škoda Rapid revealed

Honda S2000 Modulo Climax

0
0
Most motor show concepts are bold visions of future products, with many unlikely ever to make the transition to showroom model. Honda however has done completely the opposite with its Modulo Climax concept, which is based on the S2000 roadster that was discontinued over three years ago.

Due to be unveiled at the 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon, which runs from the 11th to the 13th of January, the Climax has been designed to help showcase Modulo, Honda’s in-house aftermarket parts brand.

Honda S2000 (Modulo Climax Concept) Front SideHonda S2000 (Modulo Climax Concept) Interior

Honda S2000 (Modulo Climax Concept) DashboardHonda S2000 (Modulo Climax Concept) Rear Side

The modifications aren’t too extreme, but at least the result is tasteful. Among the changes are restyled bumpers, upgraded wheels, a pair of aerodynamic fairings behind the head restraints and a unique burgundy and black interior.

Still no word from Honda on whether an S2000 replacement is coming though, despite much speculation and many rumours.

Related posts:
Honda Micro Commuter EV
Honda N-ONE sales begin

Suzuki Wagon R concepts

0
0
Among Suzuki’s exhibits at the upcoming 2013 Tokyo Auto Salon will be a pair of concepts based on the diminutive Wagon R.

The first is a customised Wagon R Stingray which, as well as an aggressive body kit and a special paintjob, features a front-end adorned with various LEDs and a snakeskin-pattern finish for the door mirror caps, bumper insert and door handles.

Suzuki Wagon R Stingray Custom Concept (2013) Front Side

Suzuki Wagon R RR Concept (2013) Front Side

It’s going to be joined by the Wagon R RR Concept. Designed to present an overtly sporting image, the RR’s specification includes a centrally-mounted exhaust, some garish body-side graphics and the requisite body kit that appears to reduce ground clearance to pretty much zero.

Related posts:
2013 Suzuki Grand Vitara
2013 Suzuki Jimny revealed

Honda Off-Road Centre

0
0
Doubtless inspired by the success of BMW’s Off Road Skills facility in South Wales, Honda has decided to launch its own off-road riding school.

Run by ex-Motocross World Champion Dave Thorpe - and so officially known as the Dave Thorpe Honda Off-Road Centre - it too is situated in South Wales, near to Cardiff.

The focus seems to be slightly different from BMW’s though, as the syllabus includes both motocross (using a dedicated track) and enduro tuition. However, one aspect that both operations have in common is that complete novices are welcome to attend.

Naturally Honda motorcycles will be used, with riders having a choice of CRF150R, CRF250R, CRF250X, CRF450X or CRF250L machines.

Honda CRF250R (2013) Side
2013 Honda CRF250R.

Courses are due to begin in February 2013 and bookings are being accepted now. Currently, prices are £199 for the Enduro or Taster Days, while the Motocross Day costs £150.

Related posts:
Honda XTREME editions
2013 Honda off-roaders
Honda CRF250L for Europe

Infiniti Q50 teased

0
0
Ahead of its unveiling at January’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Infiniti has offered a brief glimpse of the all-new Q50 saloon.

Very brief in fact, because all that has been revealed so far is a single headlight which looks like it has been borrowed from BMW. Hopefully the rest of it will be more original?

Infiniti Q50 (2014) Headlight Detail


Due to be launched later next year, the Q50 adopts Infiniti’s new model-naming convention and, as the replacement for the G37, it will be competing against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Cadillac ATS and Audi A4.

Infiniti 2014 Model Nomenclature

Related post:
Infiniti FX Vettel concept

2013 GT Speed Convertible

0
0
Bentley has ushered in 2013 by revealing its new Continental GT Speed Convertible, the world’s quickest four-seat drop-top.

Using the same 616 bhp (460 kW / 625 PS) 6.0 litre W12 twin-turbo engine and all-wheel drive system as the coupé version, the GT Speed Convertible can hit 62 mph (100 km/h) from rest in just 4.4 seconds before going on to a maximum of 202 mph (325 km/h). Needless to say, it’s probably not a good idea to wear any millinery or toupees at that kind of speed when the roof’s down…

Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible (2013) Front SideBentley Continental GT Speed Convertible (2013) Interior

Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible (2013) Rear SideBentley Continental GT Speed Convertible (2013) Side

To go with the extra performance, the chassis has received a few tweaks in the interests of improved handling and body control. They include upgraded springs and dampers, a lowering of the ride height by 10 mm, recalibrated steering and the fitment of unique 21” alloy wheels.

Along with those new rims, the GT Speed Convertible is also identifiable by its ‘rifled’ elliptical exhaust tailpipes and a dark-tint chrome finish for the front grille and air intakes. The interior meanwhile gets the ‘Mulliner Driving Specification’ package, which features quilted leather upholstery.

The Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible will make its public debut later this month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Pricing has yet to be confirmed.

Related posts:
Bentley Continental GT3
Continental GT Speed
New Bentley Continental V8

Citroën DS3 Red editions

0
0
Citroën has launched the DS3 Red special editions. Based on either the DStyle or DSport trim grades, the new models combine some useful equipment upgrades with various visual changes.

Available in a choice of Polar White or Perla Nera Black paintwork with matching alloy wheels, all versions come with a red finish for the roof, door mirror caps and front grille surround. The theme continues on the inside, where the dashboard and door handle surrounds are also red.

Citroën DS3 Red (2013) Front Side 1

The standard specification of the DStyle Red is enhanced by the ‘Connect Signature’ pack, which consists of a superior audio system, Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The DSport Red meanwhile gets the convenience-focussed ‘City Signature’ pack, which includes rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, an electrochrome interior rear-view mirror, a front central armrest and power-folding and heated door mirrors.

Citroën DS3 Red (2013) InteriorCitroën DS3 Red (2013) Front Side 2

On the road prices in the UK start from £15,655, but opting for the Perla Nera Black paint will add an extra £480 to the cost:
  • Citroën DS3 DStyle Red VTi 120 (petrol) - £15,655
  • Citroën DS3 DStyle Red e-HDi 90 Airdream (diesel) - £15,855
  • Citroën DS3 DSport Red THP 155 (petrol) - £17,780
  • Citroën DS3 DSport Red e-HDi 115 Airdream (diesel) - £18,060
Related posts:
2013 Citroën C3 Picasso
2013 Citroën DS3 Cabrio
Top 10: Chic cars for £20k

Top 10: New cars due in 2013

0
0
Despite tough market conditions, 2013 is certainly going to be a very busy year for car launches, with manufacturers set to introduce new products that cover just about every sector and price point.

Choosing the ten most important isn’t an easy task, but these models can lay claim to being significant for a variety of different reasons.

1. Dacia Sandero

Launch date: January 2013

The Sandero is getting a lot of attention because, with a lead-in price tag of £5,995, it’s going to be the UK’s cheapest car.

Dacia Sandero Lauréate (2013) Front Side

For that amount, luxuries are sparse (neither a radio nor electric windows are part of the standard spec, for example) but the consensus seems to be that the basic Access version is the one to go for. While posher Sandero models offer more kit, they’re also costlier, which then opens them up to direct comparison against established, potentially more talented competitors.

2. Land Rover Range Rover

Launch date: January 2013

Arguably the current Range Rover remains the world’s finest luxury off-roader, so attempting to improve on it is a brave move. Nevertheless, the brand new L405 version has taken on the challenge and indeed it does address some of its predecessor’s shortfalls.

Land Rover Range Rover (2013) Front Side

For instance, it’s much lighter thanks to the use of an all-aluminium monocoque construction, which in turn benefits fuel consumption. There’s also more room in the rear, meaning the new Range Rover should be more appealing to those who prefer to be driven around. On the downside the styling suffers from some overly fussy details (which seems to be a common Land Rover trait nowadays), but overall it’s a fairly handsome vehicle.

3. Vauxhall / Opel Adam

Launch date: January 2013

Style-conscious small car buyers have been flocking to the likes of the Fiat 500 and Mini in recent years. Now Vauxhall wants a slice of their business, hence the arrival of the Adam city car with its fresh design and plenty of personalisation options.

Opel Adam (2013) Rear Side

Unlike some of its chic rivals, the Adam can’t call on any retro associations to attract customers, but perhaps that’s no bad thing. Three trim levels will be available, with prices starting from £11,255.

4. Škoda Octavia

Launch date: March 2013

Coming so soon after the arrival of Volkswagen’s Golf Mk.7, the all-new Octavia could create some problems for its cousin. After all, the Škoda is based on the same MQB modular platform, but it’s a slightly larger car.

Skoda Octavia (2013) Front Side

What’s more, the Octavia’s prices and specifications (which have still to be finalised) could threaten to make it a more appealing customer proposition than the Golf.

5. Jaguar F-Type

Launch date: May 2013

Jaguar’s E-Type was iconic because of its looks, style, performance and price. So deciding to use the F-Type name for a new two-seat roadster inevitably means that comparisons are going to be made against the Jaguar’s legendary forebear, as well as a host of very capable contemporary rivals.

Jaguar F-Type (2013) Rear Side

From launch the line-up of V6 and V8 supercharged engines will only be available with an automatic transmission, which might mean that some enthusiasts delay placing their orders in anticipation of the rumoured six-speed manual alternative. Prices in the UK range from £58,500 to £79,950.

6. Alfa Romeo 4C

Launch date: Second half of 2013

This mid-engine sports car has already been seen in concept form and, if speculation is to be believed, the production version will make its debut at this March’s Geneva Motor Show. European sales are then expected to commence later in 2013, with a UK price of around £40,000.

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept (Fluid Metal) (2011) Side

That’ll be followed next year by what could be the 4C’s toughest task: spearheading the oft-delayed re-launch of the Alfa Romeo brand in North America.

7. Chevrolet Corvette C7

Launch date: Autumn 2013

The seventh-generation Corvette is due to be unveiled later this month at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Chevrolet has done a good job of keeping the C7 under wraps so far, but it has revealed that power is going to come from an improved LT1 V8 engine with a 6.2 litre capacity.

Chevrolet Corvette C7 (2014) Badge

Featuring direct injection and variable valve timing, it will develop somewhere in the region of 450 bhp (335 kW / 456 PS) and 610 Nm (450 lb/ft) of torque, which should be enough for a sub-four second 0-60 mph (96 km/h) sprint time.

8. BMW 4 Series

Launch date: Late 2013

Will a change in nameplate from 3 Series to 4 Series for BMW’s mid-size coupé harm sales? No, of course it won’t.

BMW Concept 4 Series Coupé (2012) Front

Not too much is known about the new model’s specifications yet, except to say it’s notably larger than its predecessor.

9. McLaren P1

Launch date: Late 2013

Almost fifteen years after production ended, the McLaren F1 is still considered one of the most accomplished supercars ever built, even by today’s standards. Now a successor, the P1, is being readied for launch following its unveiling at last September’s Paris Motor Show.

McLaren P1 (2013) Front Side

The P1 has been designed for outstanding circuit performance rather than maximum straight line speed, with exceptional levels of aerodynamic downforce and a high power to weight ratio contributing to a race-car feel. However, full technical details and pricing have yet to be revealed.

10. MG3

Launch date: Late 2013

MG’s resurrection has been slow-paced, partly because its only model - the MG6 - lacked a diesel engine. That omission has now been sorted, and the brand received some much-needed exposure following its participation in this year’s British Touring Car Championship.

MG 3 (2011 Chinese Spec) Front Side

The next stage in the firm’s revival is anticipated to be the UK-engineered MG3 supermini, which is already available in China. Whether final assembly of European-market cars will take place at Longbridge remains to be seen, though.

Suzuki Alto vs. Dacia Sandero

0
0
Suzuki has decided to extend the ‘VAT free’ offer on its Alto city car until the end of March 2013, probably in response to the imminent arrival of a certain sub-£6k car from Romania.

Indeed, the blurb from Suzuki even says that the entry-level Alto SZ - now available for £5,999 - is ‘priced at just four pounds more than its closest competitor’. Of course, that rival is the Dacia Sandero, which will cost from £5,995 when sales begin later this month.

Suzuki Alto (2012) Front Side
The Suzuki Alto...
Dacia Sandero Access (2013) Front Side
...and the Dacia Sandero.

Deciding between the two could be a tricky decision, as one offers more space and safety features, while the other boasts better equipment levels and greater efficiency:

Model Suzuki Alto SZ Dacia Sandero Access
OTR price £5,999 £5,995
Dimensions
Doors Five Five
Length 3,500 mm (11’ 6”) 4,057 mm (13’ 4”)
Width 1,600 mm (5’ 3”) 1,733 mm (5’ 8”)
Height 1,470 mm (4’ 10”) 1,523 mm (5’ 0”)
Boot space 129 litres 320 litres
Engine
Type 3-cylinder petrol 4-cylinder petrol
Capacity 996 cc 1,149 cc
Power 67 bhp (50 kW / 68 PS) 74 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS)
Torque 90 Nm (66 lb/ft) 107 Nm (78 lb/ft)
Transmission 5-speed manual 5-speed manual
Performance
0-62 mph (100 km/h) 13.5 secs 14.5 secs
Top speed 96 mph (155 km/h) 97 mph (156 km/h)
Efficiency
Combined fuel consumption 65.7 mpg (4.3 l/100km) 47.9 mpg (5.9 l/100km)
CO2 emissions 99 g/km 135 g/km
Equipment
Wheels 14” steel 15” steel
Airbags Two Four
Electronic stability No Yes
Brakes ABS, front discs / rear drums ABS, front discs / rear discs
Power steering Yes Yes
Standard body colour White or red White only
Metallic paint Five shades, £399 cost option Not available
Body-colour bumpers Yes No
Audio Radio / CD player, two speakers No
Windows Electric front / manual rear Manual
Central locking Yes No
Air conditioning No No
Tinted glass Yes Yes

Related posts:
Top 10: New cars due in 2013
£5,995 Dacia Sandero
£5,995 Suzuki Alto
99 g/km Suzuki Alto

E-Class facelifts completed

0
0
Following the unveiling of its updated E-Class Saloon and Estate last month, Mercedes-Benz has now completed the process by applying similar treatments to the Coupé and Cabriolet models.

Visually, the most noticeable changes are at the front end, which now features a more attractive headlight design, a revised bumper and larger air intakes for a more assertive look. It’s a similar story at the rear, where there are new light units as well as a restyled bumper with a prominent chrome-look trim piece across its width.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé (2013) Front Side 1Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé (2013) Rear Side

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé (2013) SideMercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé (2013) Front Side 2

The interior has been freshened up courtesy of new materials, instruments, vents and switches, while a rearrangement of the centre console sees the automatic transmission gear selector move to the steering wheel.

Safety systems abound on the 2013 E-Class, with UK-spec cars getting both the radar-based Collision Prevention Assist and the drowsiness-detecting Attention Assist as standard.

There are plenty more on the options list too, including Pre-Safe Brake (pedestrian detection with automatic braking), Pre-Safe Plus (rear-end impact warning and protection), Brake Assist System Plus with Junction Assist (crossing traffic recognition plus boosted braking), Active Blind Spot Assist  and Active Lane Keeping Assist. With that lot installed, having a crash in an E-Class would be almost inexcusable.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (2013) Front SideMercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (2013) Interior

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (2013) DashboardMercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (2013) Rear Side

Two petrol and three diesel engines are going to be available from launch, all of which come fitted with a stop / start system as standard. Buyers will have a choice of either a manual six-speed gearbox or a seven-speed automatic transmission.

UK prices for the 2013 E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet have yet to be announced.

Related posts:
RS 6 Avant vs. its rivals
2013 CLS Shooting Brake
G-Class gets updated

Top 10: UK car sales 2012

0
0
2012 saw 2,044,609 new cars registered in the UK, an increase of 103,356 or 5.3% compared to 2011’s total.

According to figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, that was the highest total seen since 2008, with the growth coming as a result of stronger private buyer demand. Conversely, the fleet and business sectors combined remained fairly stagnant, but they still accounted for just under 55% of sales.

Several manufactures did considerably better than the market average, with Land Rover, Kia and Suzuki the three volume brands that each recorded rises of over 20% during 2012.

Ssangyong, Chrysler and MG meanwhile were the biggest winners in percentage terms, even though they remain comparative minnows with a collective registration volume of just 4,990 units.

UK Car Registrations 2012 - Best Performing Manufacturers Versus 2011

Unfortunately, at the other end of the scale it was definitely a year to forget for some marques. Notable among those were Mitsubishi, Alfa Romeo and Renault, which suffered registration drops of 34%, 37% and 40% respectively on 2011.

UK Car Registrations 2012 - Worst Performing Manufacturers Versus 2011

At the top of the manufacturers’ league table things remained pretty much unchanged, as the first nine slots had the same occupants as in 2011. Only Citroën dropped out of the top ten, with the French firm being replaced by Hyundai.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2012 - By Manufacturer
Position 2012 Manufacturer Registrations Market SharePosition 2011
1 Ford 281,917 13.8% 1
2 Vauxhall 232,255 11.4% 2
3 Volkswagen 183,098 9.0% 3
4 BMW 127,530 6.2% 4
5 Audi 123,622 6.1% 5
6 Nissan 105,835 5.2% 6
7 Peugeot 99,486 4.9% 7
8 Mercedes-Benz 91,855 4.5% 8
9 Toyota 84,563 4.1% 9
10 Hyundai 74,285 3.6% 12

As expected, the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa and Ford Focus retained their top three positions in the individual models’ chart.

The Vauxhall Astra nabbed fourth place from the Volkswagen Golf, although the latter’s registration performance would have been affected by the new model launch. Another significant result came from the BMW 1 Series which, after a very strong final quarter, ended the year filling the number ten spot.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2012 - By Model
Position Manufacturer Model Registrations
1 Ford Fiesta 109,265
2 Vauxhall Corsa 89,434
3 Ford Focus 83,115
4 Vauxhall Astra 63,023
5 Volkswagen Golf 62,021
6 Nissan Qashqai 45,675
7 BMW 3 Series 44,521
8 Volkswagen Polo 41,901
9 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 37,261
10 BMW 1 Series 34,488

Related posts:
Top 10: Car sales Q3 2012
Top 10: Car sales Q2 2012
Top 10: Car sales Q1 2012
Top 10: UK car sales 2011
Top 10: UK car sales 2010

Hyundai HCD-14 concept

0
0
Hyundai has offered a glimpse of its HCD-14 concept with the release of a single, darkened image.

Due to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit later this month, the four-door coupé could potentially become a member of that growing niche which currently includes the likes of the Audi A7, BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé and Mercedes-Benz CLS.

Hyundai HCD-14 Concept (2013) Side

For now, few details about the HCD-14 are known, but Hyundai is saying that it will incorporate various future technologies including 3-D gesture-based controls. The styling meanwhile hints at a possible direction that Hyundai design could be taking.

Related posts:
Hyundai Equus gets a facelift
£21,995 Veloster Turbo SE
New Hyundai i30 revealed

New Nissan Qashqai 360

0
0
Nissan’s Sunderland-built Qashqai, the UK’s best-selling crossover, is getting a new trim grade for 2013.

Called the 360, it replaces the popular n-tec+ in the range and offers more kit for the same price. The name denotes that the standard specification includes the Connect system with 360° Around View Monitor, which comprises four external parking cameras, Bluetooth and satellite navigation.

Nissan Qashqai 360 (2013) Front Side

Externally, the Qashqai 360 is distinguished by its gloss black roof rails, panoramic glass roof, rear privacy glass and 18” alloy wheels. On the inside, part-leather upholstery, aluminium pedals and gloss black trim pieces all feature.

Nissan Qashqai 360 (2013) InteriorNissan Qashqai 360 (2013) Rear Side

Available now in either Qashqai or seven-seat Qashqai+2 guises, the 360 costs from £19,945:

Qashqai 360
Version OTR Price
1.6 (117 PS) 5-speed manual £19,945
1.6 (117 PS) + Stop/Start System 5-speed manual £20,195
1.6 (117 PS) CVT £21,245
1.5 dCi (110 PS) 6-speed manual £21,645
2.0 (140 PS) 6-speed manual £21,645
2.0 (140 PS) CVT £22,945
1.6 dCi (130 PS) + Stop/Start System 6-speed manual £23,145
1.6 dCi (130 PS) + Stop/Start System 6-speed manual 4WD £24,695
2.0 dCi (150 PS) 6-speed auto 4WD £25,895
Qashqai+2 360
Version OTR Price
1.6 (117 PS) 5-speed manual £21,095
1.6 (117 PS) + Stop/Start System 5-speed manual £21,345
1.5 dCi (110 PS) 6-speed manual £22,795
2.0 (140 PS) 6-speed manual £22,845
2.0 (140 PS) CVT 4WD £25,695
1.6 dCi (130 PS) + Stop/Start System 6-speed manual £24,295
1.6 dCi (130 PS) + Stop/Start System 6-speed manual 4WD £25,845
2.0 dCi (150 PS) 6-speed auto 4WD £27,095

Related posts:
Top 10: UK car sales 2012
Nissan Navara Visia
Nissan Juke Nismo pricing
2013 Nissan GT-R unveiled

Astra returns to the BTCC

0
0
The Vauxhall Astra has had a successful history in the British Touring Car Championship, having been used to help secure five drivers’ titles in the past. And now the model is set to return to the series, in full Next Generation Touring Car specification.

It’s not going to be a works entry, though. Rather, the NGTC Astra is being developed by privateer team AmDTuning.com, which has campaigned a Super 2000 Volkswagen Golf in the BTCC for the last three years.

Vauxhall Astra GTC NGTC 2013 (Rendering) Front Side

Because the Astra programme has only just been finalised, a full specification has yet to be decided. Although the plan is to run the TOCA engine that’s already used by several competitors, the team may end up basing the car on a five-door bodyshell rather than the three-door GTC version seen in the rendering, for instance. AmDTuning.com expects the Astra to be ready in time for a 2013 mid-season debut, with its Golf continuing in service until then.

Team principal Shaun Hollamby commented: “When I first saw the Astra I thought it would make a fantastic BTCC car and I’m excited about this new programme. The Astra is a good size with strong aerodynamics and fits well into the regulations, which seem to favour the smaller and more nimble cars.

“While we have been thinking about this move for some time, the fact that the programme has come together now means we will focus on developing the Astra for the second half of the season, giving us the chance to build the car and do some testing before giving it its race debut.

“We are talking with Ollie Jackson and would love to keep him onboard as he did a great job last year and showed that he deserves his place in the BTCC, but we are also interested in speaking to other drivers who are interested in competing in the series this season.

“While our plan at the moment is to start the year with the Golf before introducing the Astra, we could run the Volkswagen for the full season if the right driver comes along who wants to compete for the Jack Sears Trophy. With the reduced boost levels that the S2000 cars will run to, it will be a competitive package for a driver who doesn’t quite have the budget to go with an NGTC programme.”

So, for now the driver line-up remains unconfirmed, but AmDTuning.com is hoping to be able to announce some names in the near future.

Related posts:
2013 BTCC calendar
2012 BTCC entries

Peugeot 2008 revealed

0
0
Peugeot has unveiled the 2008, a new small crossover that’ll be making its debut at March’s Geneva Motor Show.

At 4.16 metres long, the 2008 will be up against some very capable competitors. They include the Nissan Juke, Škoda Yeti and Mini Countryman, as well as the newly-launched Vauxhall / Opel Mokka and the keenly-priced Dacia Duster.

Peugeot 2008 (2013) Front Side

Peugeot 2008 (2013) Rear Side

However, unlike its rivals, the 2008 won’t be available with all-wheel drive. Whether that’s actually a hindrance in this sector is debateable, as for many buyers the quasi off-road looks will be enough.

Not many technical details have been released, but the engine line-up is expected to be very similar to that offered in the 208 supermini.

UK deliveries of the Peugeot 2008 are due to begin towards the end of this summer.

Related posts:
Top 10: UK car sales 2012
208 GTi Limited Edition
Peugeot 2008 Concept

Rodius gets a new engine

0
0
Selling the SsangYong Rodius MPV can’t be the easiest job in the motor trade. For starters, it carries a brand name that few have heard of, then there are the looks which, in polite terms, might not be to everyone’s taste.

However, in its favour, the Rodius features seven seats, decent equipment levels, a five-year warranty and a starting price of £15,995 - a combination that’ll be appealing to those who don’t care too much about driving, image, refinement, a lack of airbags or residual values.

SsangYong Rodius (2013) Front Side

SsangYong Rodius (2013) Rear Side

For 2013, the old 2.7 litre engine has been replaced by the same 2.0 litre e-XDi diesel unit that’s already used in the Korando Sports pick-up. Developing 152 bhp (114 kW / 155 PS) with 360 Nm (265 lb/ft) of torque, it comes connected to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automatic transmission, depending on the trim grade chosen.

Combined cycle fuel consumption of up to 37.7 mpg (7.5 l/100km) isn’t too bad, but carbon dioxide emissions range from 196 to 206 g/km, meaning an annual vehicle tax charge of at least £250 in the UK. In terms of performance, the Rodius will hit 105 mph (169 km/h), but SsangYong hasn’t even bothered to quote a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time.

2013 SsangYong Rodius - UK OTR Prices
Rodius S £15,995
Rodius ES £17,995
Rodius ES (Auto) £19,495
Rodius EX (Auto, 4x4) £21,995

Related posts:
SsangYong Korando CSX
SsangYong Korando Sports
Viewing all 2670 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images