Nissan NV200 Taxi for London

January 13, 2014, 6:36 am

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The new Nissan Taxi - or Hackney Carriage, to use the correct term - is due to start appearing on London’s streets in December. Handsome it is not.

That’s no surprise, because the taxi is based on the Spanish-built NV200 van which suffers odd proportions thanks to its seemingly tiny castor-like wheels and tall, narrow stance. A completely redesigned front end, a pair of massive round headlights and a traditional roof-mounted taxi sign don’t make things any more attractive.

But does such ugliness actually matter? Probably not for passengers, who first and foremost want to be able to easily identify a London cab. They’ll certainly have no problem recognising the NV200 with its pastiche face.

Taxi drivers aren’t likely to be too bothered by the looks either. After all, plenty bought the now defunct Metrocab and it often resembled a poorly-executed kit car. For them ride comfort, space and running costs are more important considerations.

Interestingly, the NV200 Taxi eschews diesel power. Instead, it’s fitted with a 1.6 litre petrol engine that drives the front wheels via an automatic transmission, thereby supporting the argument that lowering exhaust pollution shouldn’t just focus on carbon dioxide. Even greener will be the zero emissions, all-electric e-NV200 version which is scheduled to arrive sometime during 2015.

Nevertheless, it’s a shame Nissan’s effort isn’t more aesthetically pleasing. Unlike the classic FX4 that was launched in the late 1950s, don’t expect the NV200 Taxi to become part of London’s iconography.

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2014 NACTOY winners

January 13, 2014, 11:36 am

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Chevrolet has won both the 2014 North American Car of the Year and the North American Truck / Utility of the Year awards. The results, determined by a jury of 49 motoring journalists from Canada and the United States, were announced today at the North American International Auto Show.

In the car category the Corvette Stingray emerged victorious with 211 points. The outcome was fairly close, as the second-place Mazda 3 received 185. The remaining finalist, the Cadillac CTS, earned 94 points.

2014 North American Car of the Year:

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray.

The Chevrolet Silverado meanwhile secured the truck and utility prize with a more definite margin. It attracted a total of 219 points, comfortably ahead of the Jeep Cherokee and Acura MDX which got 174 and 97 respectively.

2014 North American Truck / Utility of the Year:

The Chevrolet Silverado.

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Images © General Motors.

Toyota FT-1 coupé concept revealed

January 13, 2014, 2:47 pm

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The Toyota FT-1 coupé has a definite wow factor, just like any decent motor show concept car should.

Unveiled today at the North American International Auto Show, it’s the work of Toyota’s California-based Calty studios. The striking design incorporates a long bonnet, dramatic air intakes and vents, a wraparound windscreen and a retractable rear wing. Clearly the Toyota 2000GT from the 1960s has been an influence, but elements of the styling also evoke the current Nissan GT-R and even some later TVR models.

Toyota has confirmed that the FT-1 features a front-mounted internal combustion engine and rear-wheel drive. No other technical details have been released though.

Whether it will go into production remains to be seen, but the FT-1 has the potential to become a worthy replacement for Toyota’s Supra.

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2015 Corvette Z06 debuts at NAIAS

January 14, 2014, 11:27 am

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The 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 has been unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Powering it is a supercharged 6.2 litre LT4 V8 engine which is expected to produce at least 625 bhp (466 kW / 633 PS) with 861 Nm (635 lb/ft) of torque. That output is delivered to the rear wheels via either a seven-speed manual gearbox or the new 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission.

As well as an Eaton supercharger, the motor has received a few other modifications. These include the fitment of stronger forged aluminium pistons and cylinder heads, titanium intake valves, a dry-sump lubrication system and lighter exhaust components.

Bodywork changes are mainly functional. Most obvious are the larger bonnet vent, extra air intakes and various aerodynamic appendages. Furthermore the wheel arches have grown to accommodate wheels and tyres that are 1.5” and 2.0” wider at the front and rear respectively. As a result, the tail light clusters are set further apart to help emphasise the broader stance.

For any driver interested in taking their Z06 on track, Chevrolet has developed a Z07 Performance Package. It consists of Brembo carbon ceramic brake discs, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tyres, larger front splitter winglets and an adjustable rear spoiler.

Sales of the 2015 Corvette Z06 are scheduled to begin next year. Full technical specs and pricing will be confirmed nearer to the car’s launch date.

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Images © General Motors.

2014 Honda PCX125 announced

January 14, 2014, 2:37 pm

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Honda is giving the popular PCX125 scooter a comprehensive makeover for 2014.

Its tubular steel frame is unchanged, but the bodywork has been redesigned and now incorporates full LED lighting front and rear. Other tweaks include a larger fairing storage pocket and a modified seat unit that gains a sprung hinge but loses the previous version’s small backrest.

Equipment levels are more generous as the revised model comes with a dashboard clock, hazard warning lights and a 12V AC adaptor as standard. Depending on the market, up to six different paintwork colours are available.

Power is still provided by a 125 cc, fuel-injected, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine that produces 11.5 bhp (8.6 kW / 11.7 PS). Fuel economy has been improved though thanks to reduced internal friction and the fitment of special low rolling resistance Dunlop tyres on the five-spoke cast aluminium wheels.

As a result, the 2014 PCX125 manages 133.8 mpg (2.1 l/100km / 47.4 km/l) on the World Motorcycle Test Cycle with the scooter’s Idling Stop function inactive. Combined with an increase in fuel tank capacity from 6.2 to 8.0 litres (1.4 to 1.7 gallons), that gives a theoretical range of 235 miles (379 kilometres).

The updated Honda PCX125 arrives at UK dealers this spring. Pricing has yet to be confirmed.

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The Kia GT4 Stinger is just a concept

January 15, 2014, 5:37 am

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Kia is being very honest about the GT4 Stinger concept’s prospects: there are currently no plans to put it into production. And that’s a shame because the coupé, unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, could have become a great halo model for the brand.

For starters the GT4 Stinger looks terrific. The styling is simple and elegant without any fussy details, plus the three-door body is well proportioned.

Add in a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine that sends its 315 bhp (235 kW / 320 PS) to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox and things become even more appealing.

However, while that motor is based on an existing unit, the GT4 Stinger’s bespoke chassis and exotic double wishbone suspension are the reality checks. Manufacturing such a unique rear-drive platform isn’t cheap, therefore Kia would have to be confident of selling sufficient volumes for the coupé to be affordable yet profitable. That said, the Mazda MX-5 and Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86 prove it’s possible.

So the GT4 Stinger won’t be appearing in showrooms, but perhaps its legacy will be a new design direction for Kia?

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Qoros 3 Hatch first view

January 15, 2014, 9:30 am

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Qoros has revealed its 3 Hatch ahead of a public debut at March’s Geneva International Motor Show.

The new arrival - the Chinese brand’s second production model - is essentially a five-door version of the existing 3 Sedan. Measuring 4,438 mm (14’ 7”) long, it’s about the same size as a Vauxhall / Opel Astra.

As well as having a unique rear the 3 Hatch’s front end has been tweaked too. The changes focus on a redesigned grille and bumper, which are intended to lend a more dynamic air. That theme continues inside courtesy of some different upholstery colours and materials.

According to Volker Steinwascher, Vice Chairman of Qoros: “The new Qoros 3 Hatch will appeal to the modern metropolitan always-connected customer who needs a little extra versatility provided by the hatchback body style. It offers those with active outdoor lifestyles or young families extra practicality, combined with added coolness thanks to its more spirited, sporty look.”

To help ensure the car’s owners are ‘always-connected’, every 3 Hatch will be fitted with Qoros’ multimedia hub. The system is based around an 8” touchscreen that’s controlled via fingertip swipe gestures. Most models in the range are also going to feature QorosQloud, a suite of services delivered via 3G cellular phone networks.

Powering the 3 Hatch will be the same normally-aspirated or turbocharged 1.6 litre engines already used in the 3 Sedan. Qoros has yet to announce any market launch dates or prices.

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Morgan 3 Wheeler 1000th Edition

January 15, 2014, 2:21 pm

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A car with not much bodywork, just one rear wheel and a front-mounted V-twin engine that’s exposed to the elements sounds ultra niche. The Morgan 3 Wheeler has all of those things, yet it has just reached a remarkable production milestone.

1,000 examples have now been built at the firm’s Malvern premises. Considering Morgan originally reckoned on completing about a third of that volume, the achievement is mightily impressive.

To celebrate, a one-off 1000th Edition 3 Wheeler has been created which features a colour scheme inspired by the original 1909 Runabout. As a finishing touch the lower pinstripes list the names of Morgan’s 180 staff members.

This unique car isn’t available to buy though, as Morgan is planning to keep it for display at the factory.

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2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe unveiled at NAIAS

January 16, 2014, 5:27 am

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Concepts such as the Kia GT4 Stinger and Toyota FT-1 have created the biggest stirs at this year’s North American International Auto Show, but some important production models made their debuts too. Among them is the 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe.

It’s not just a two-door version of the compact luxury ATS Sedan, which was awarded the 2013 North American Car of the Year title twelve months ago. While the two body styles share the same wheelbase there are some significant differences.

The ATS Coupe has shorter overhangs, wider tracks and it comes with 18” wheels as standard. All of the panels except the bonnet are unique too, giving it a distinctive presence. Perhaps the one controversial element is the adoption of new wreathless ‘Cadillac Crest’ badges.

Two engines will be available. First is an uprated 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder unit that produces 272 bhp (203 kW / 276 PS) with 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque. The alternative is a normally-aspirated 3.6 litre V6 which has outputs of 321 bhp (239 kW / 325 PS) and 373 Nm (275 lb/ft).

Both options come with a Hydra-Matic 6L45 six-speed automatic transmission, although the smaller-capacity motor can be paired with a Tremec TR3160 six-speed manual gearbox instead. The ATS Coupe is being offered with either rear- or all-wheel drive.

For any customers wanting a sportier ride, Cadillac has developed the FE3 package. It consists of a mechanical limited-slip differential, high performance tyres, enhanced engine cooling and the Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping system.

Prices for the 2015 ATS Coupe have yet to be announced.

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Images © General Motors.

Suzuki GSX-R1000ZSE UK price revealed

January 16, 2014, 11:27 am

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Exclusivity is guaranteed with the new Suzuki GSX-R1000ZSE, as just ten examples are coming to the UK.

Distinguishing it from the regular GSX-R1000 sports bike are a host of cosmetic tweaks. The most eye-catching of these is a blue finish which has been applied to the wheel spokes, drive chain and rear spring as well as the clutch, alternator and engine sprocket covers. Various smaller components feature blue anodising to match.

Also included in the package are a chrome-plated frame, polished wheel rims and exhaust parts, a matt black swingarm, matt silver paintwork, unique graphics and a numbered plaque.

However, a price tag of £13,499 means the GSX-R1000ZSE isn’t cheap. By comparison the limited edition GSX-R1000Z costs £11,799, while a standard GSX-R1000 is a relative bargain at £10,999.

The GSX-R1000ZSE is available now but only from these Suzuki dealers:

• Alf England Motorcycles
• Kings Two Wheel Centre
• Laguna Motorcycles
• Millennium Motorcycles
• P. McNulty and Sons
• Redcar Motorcycles
• SMC Bikes
• Streetbike
• Thunder Road
• Wheels Motorcycles

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January 16, 2014, 2:20 pm

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The Jaguar C-X17 crossover concept has appeared at the Brussels Motor Show wearing a fetching Italian Racing Red paintjob.

Originally unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the C-X17 utilises Jaguar's all-new modular and scalable ‘iQ[Al]’ aluminium architecture. The first production model to adopt it will be an X-Type replacement that’s due to be launched next year.

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Frazer-Nash Metrocab unveiled in London

January 17, 2014, 3:20 pm

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The London taxi market is set to get even more competitive. Just days after Nissan launched its van-based NV200 Taxi, the British-built Frazer-Nash Metrocab has been revealed.

Developed over the past decade in collaboration with Ecotive, the all-new contender looks huge at first glance. That’s probably because at 4,905 mm (16’ 1”) long and 1,925 mm (6’ 4”) high, it is.

But that bulk brings advantages: three-abreast seating means there’s space in the back for six passengers, plus the boot is huge. Nevertheless, manoeuvrability is impressive and a 25 feet (7.62 metres) turning circle complies with the infamous Public Carriage Office regulation.

Earlier this week London Mayor, Boris Johnson, announced that all new London taxis will have to be zero emissions capable from the beginning of 2018. The Metrocab fulfils that criterion thanks to its range-extender technology.

The drivetrain consists of a 67 bhp (50 kW / 68 PS) brushless electric motor for each rear wheel and an under-floor 12.2 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. Recharging is via either a standard domestic socket or the Metrocab’s front-mounted 1.0 litre petrol engine, which is used solely to power the onboard generator. A regenerative braking system also helps to keep the battery topped up.

Frazer-Nash reckons fuel economy will average at least 75 mpg (3.8 l/100km), resulting in an overall range of around 350 miles (560 kilometres). Carbon dioxide emissions should be less than 50 g/km.

London cabbies are currently being invited to participate in driving trials ahead of the Metrocab going on sale.

Related post:
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2015 Subaru WRX STI coming to the UK

January 18, 2014, 3:03 pm

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Following its recent unveiling at the North American International Auto Show, Subaru has decided that the 2015 WRX STI is to be offered in the UK.

The all-new four-door saloon features an all-wheel drive system that’s augmented by an electronically-controlled centre differential. Also fitted is active torque vectoring which works by applying brake pressure to the inside front wheel for more neutral cornering.

Unsurprisingly power is provided by a turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine. Displacing 2,457 cc, it produces 305 bhp (227 kW / 309 PS) with 393 Nm (290 lb/ft) of torque and comes connected to a strengthened six-speed manual gearbox. Performance figures have yet to be released, though.

Thanks to a better exchange rate the WRX STI will cost £28,995 when sales begin this May. On a ‘pound per horsepower’ basis at least, that makes the Subaru good value versus its potential rivals.

Model	OTR price	Power	£ per bhp
Subaru WRX STI	£28,995	305 bhp	£95
BMW M135i 5-door	£31,365	315 bhp	£99
Renault Mégane Renaultsport 265	£26,925	261 bhp	£103
Audi S3 Sportback	£31,260	295 bhp	£106

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January 20, 2014, 12:36 pm

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2014 marks fifty years since the Shelby Cobra 289 FIA first appeared on race circuits around the world. To celebrate the car's half-century, a special continuation model has been created.

Offered only as a rolling chassis, its specification includes Viking Blue paintwork, white number roundels, a black interior, FIA-style powder-coated wheels, various 50th Anniversary billet badges and a unique car cover. Buyers will have to source their own engine and transmission.

In the United States prices start from either $94,995 or $159,995 depending on whether a fibreglass or aluminium body is chosen. Fittingly, just fifty examples are going to be built.

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2014 Škoda Octavia GreenLine launched

January 21, 2014, 10:59 am

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The target audience for Škoda's new Octavia GreenLine hatch is going to be mainly business users, company car drivers and those who do a lot of miles.

Powered by a specially developed 1.6 litre turbodiesel engine that produces 108 bhp (80 kW / 110 PS), its headline figures are 88.3 mpg (3.2 l/100km) on the combined cycle and carbon dioxide emissions of 85 g/km. As a result the greenest Octavia slots into Band A for vehicle excise duty purposes and attracts a benefit-in-kind rating of 13%.

Škoda has set the Octavia GreenLine's UK on the road price at £20,150. That makes it £590 dearer than a regular Octavia SE 1.6 TDI CR 105PS, which achieves a still very respectable 74.3 mpg (3.8 l/100km) while generating 99 g/km of CO2.

Deciding whether the premium for the GreenLine is worth it will depend on a variety of factors including estimated residual values, likely mileage and predicted fuel costs.

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Two new Jaguar XK variants for the UK

January 22, 2014, 3:37 pm

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With the F-Type attracting so much attention recently, the larger XK has somewhat faded into the background. It’s still going strong though, so to help put it back into the spotlight Jaguar has just announced a couple of XK editions.

The first is the XK Signature, which is powered by a normally-aspirated 5.0 litre V8 engine developing 380 bhp (283 kW / 385 PS). Leather upholstery, ebony veneer trim and bright metal pedals are all come as standard, plus it gains a rear reversing camera and 20” ‘Kalimnos’ alloy wheels.

Alternatively the XK Dynamic R has a sportier flavour, thanks mainly to the addition of a supercharger which sees output rise to 503 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS). To complement that increase, the Black Dynamic Pack and Speed Pack have also been fitted.

The former includes the suspension set-up from the XKR-S, a lower ride height and the Adaptive Dynamics system, while the latter consists of extra aerodynamic devices and a 174 mph (280 km/h) top speed instead of the usual 155 mph (250 km/h). Completing the Dynamic R package are the Performance Active Exhaust and upgraded sports seats that feature heating, power adjustment and diamond-pattern stitching.

Buyers of the Signature and Dynamic R will have a choice of Ultimate Black, British Racing Green, Stratus Grey, Italian Racing Red, Dark Sapphire or Polaris White paintwork. The new arrivals are being offered in both Coupé and Convertible guises:

• XK Signature Coupé - £54,590
• XK Signature Convertible - £60,950
• XK Dynamic R Coupé - £69,950
• XK Dynamic R Convertible - £69,950

Customer deliveries are expected to begin in March.

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2015 Lincoln Navigator revealed

January 24, 2014, 1:05 pm

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Next month’s Chicago Auto Show will see the debut of an updated Lincoln Navigator. The full-size SUV has received yet another facelift, but there’s a significant change beneath the skin too.

On the outside the most obvious difference is the appearance of Lincoln’s ‘split-wing’ grille, which is framed by new high-intensity discharge headlights. The rear meanwhile gains redesigned LED lights that bear a very strong resemblance to the Dodge Durango’s.

The major news is Lincoln’s decision to ditch the old 5.4 litre V8 in favour of a 3.5 litre V6 EcoBoost engine. Featuring twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection, the replacement unit is expected to produce at least 370 bhp (275 kW / 375 PS) with 583 Nm (430 lb/ft) of torque.

It comes connected to a six-speed automatic transmission and buyers will have a choice of either rear-wheel drive or the Control Trac four-wheel drive system. Performance and economy figures haven’t been released yet, though.

As before, the 2015 Lincoln Navigator is to be offered in standard- and extended-length configurations. Production is due to begin late summer.

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Return of the Suzuki RMX450Z enduro

January 24, 2014, 3:33 pm

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The RMX450Z enduro is to feature once again in Suzuki’s off-road motorcycle line-up, although availability will be limited.

Originally launched in 2010, it’s based around a 449 cc, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine that’s connected to a five-speed transmission.

The bike’s specification also includes front and rear lights, electric and kick starters, an 18” rear wheel, a sump guard and specially calibrated Showa suspension components.

RMX450Z sales are due to commence on the 27th of January. The UK price has been set at £5,995.

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Audi Q7 S line Style and Sport Editions

January 25, 2014, 11:40 am

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Audi has launched a pair of cosmetic packages for its Q7 SUV.

The Style Edition, based on the existing S line, features extended wheel arches that house 21”, five-spoke, matt titanium-finish alloy wheels. Also part of the specification are stainless steel under-body protectors and a choice of seven paint shades.

Alternatively, the Sport Edition takes the S line Plus as a starting point. Its extra equipment is similar to the Style Edition’s, but also included are dual oval exhaust tailpipes, lower bumper spoilers and enlarged air intakes.

Both variants are being offered with Audi’s 3.0 litre V6 and 4.2 litre V8 turbodiesel engines. UK prices range from £52,975 to £64,100, amounts that represent premiums of £1,500 for the Style Editions and £3,000 for the Sport Editions.

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January 26, 2014, 12:24 pm

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Kia has launched the Picanto, Rio and Cee’d VR7 special editions in the UK.

All combine extra equipment with pricing offers and Kia’s usual seven-year warranty. The enhanced specification includes Bluetooth, alloy wheels, electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors, rear parking sensors, air conditioning and electric windows.

With the Picanto VR7 costing from £8,795, customer savings are reckoned to be £750. On both the Rio and Cee’d they’re £1,000.

Kia VR7 special editions - UK on the road prices
Picanto VR7 3-door 1.0 68 bhp 5-speed manual	£8,795
Picanto VR7 5-door 1.0 68 bhp 5-speed manual	£8,995
Rio VR7 3-door 1.25 84 bhp 5-speed manual	£10,495
Rio VR7 5-door 1.25 84 bhp 5-speed manual	£11,095
Rio VR7 5-door 1.1 CRDi 74 bhp 6-speed manual ISG	£12,395
Pro_cee'd VR7 1.4 98 bhp 6-speed manual	£13,495
Cee'd VR7 1.4 98 bhp 6-speed manual	£13,995
Cee'd VR7 1.4 CRDi 89 bhp 6-speed manual	£15,290
Cee'd Sportswagon VR7 1.4 98 bhp 6-speed manual	£14,995

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