BMW HP4 to be offered with ABS Pro

July 18, 2014, 12:06 pm

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As an upgrade for the Race anti-lock braking system already fitted as standard to their bikes, BMW HP4 owners will soon be able to have ABS Pro installed.

The main benefit of the device is that it allows ABS assistance while cornering. Essentially, existing sensors used by the HP4’s Dynamic Traction Control and Dynamic Damping Control measure the current banking angle. That piece of data then determines how quickly braking pressure can build up, which should prevent the motorcycle suddenly changing direction or trying to get upright mid-bend.

However, BMW is keen to stress that the laws of physics apply and therefore “it is still possible to exceed these limits due to misjudgement or riding errors, which in extreme cases can result in a fall”. Furthermore, because ABS Pro is intended solely for road use, it’s deactivated in the Race and Slick riding modes.

Available via dealers as a retrofit option from the end of October, ABS Pro will cost €380 in Germany. A UK price has yet to be announced.

Related post:
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2015 Smart fortwo and forfour revealed

July 20, 2014, 3:17 pm

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Two things are immediately obvious about the all-new Smart fortwo. Firstly, awkward front-end styling means some of the previous model’s visual charm has been lost; secondly, it’s being joined by the four-seat forfour which also serves as the basis for the third-generation Renault Twingo.

The two-seat version still measures 2.69 m (8’ 10”) long and power continues to come from a rear-mounted three-cylinder engine. With a capacity of 999 cc, its outputs are 59 bhp (45 kW / 60 PS) or 70 bhp (52 kW / 71 PS). For those wanting a bit more performance, an 898 cc turbocharged alternative delivers 89 bhp (66 kW /90 PS).

In a significant move, buyers will have a choice of either five-speed manual or six-speed ‘twinamic’ automated dual-clutch transmissions. They replace the old semi-automatic gearbox that earned a lot of criticism for being slow and unresponsive.

Apart from the extra seats, an increased length of 3.49 m (11’ 5”) and a single-piece tailgate, the forfour is virtually identical to the fortwo. The stretched variant might have slightly odd proportions, but maximum luggage capacity is a useful 975 litres. That’s 625 litres more than its smaller sibling offers.

European market launches are due to begin in November and initially the range is going to comprise ‘passion’, ‘prime’ and ‘proxy’ trim grades. A special ‘edition #1’, identifiable by its orange tridion safety cell, will also be available for a limited period.

Although prices have yet to be announced, Smart is saying that the fortwo won’t see a cost increase compared to its predecessor. The forfour meanwhile is expected to attract a premium of around €600 (about £475 at current exchange rates).

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2015 Buick Envision first view

July 22, 2014, 3:40 pm

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China is an immensely important market for Buick, which explains why the brand has created the Envision specifically for that country.

Measuring 4,667 mm (183.7”) long, the midsize newcomer will fill a gap in Buick’s SUV range between the existing subcompact Encore and full-size Enclave.

For now, specification details are sparse, but power is going to come from a 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine. Featuring direct injection and a stop-start system, it develops 256 bhp (191 kW / 260 PS) with 353 Nm (260 lb/ft) of peak torque. That output will be sent to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.

Buick has also announced that the Envision’s Chinese name is ‘Ang Ke Wei’. Sales are due to begin later this year.

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Image © General Motors.

Eos Final Edition unveiled for North America

July 23, 2014, 2:57 pm

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To mark the imminent demise of the Eos coupé-cabriolet, Volkswagen has created a Final Edition trim grade for the 2015 model year.

Replacing the current Eos Sport, it comes with black and beige two-tone leather upholstery, a reversing camera, rain-sensing wipers and a set of 18” Vicenza wheels.

Alternatively, the Komfort and Executive variants will continue to be available.

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The cost of replica Formula 1 team clothing

July 25, 2014, 6:18 am

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For some people, dressing in the same garments that Formula 1 pit lane personnel wear is a great way to show support for a particular team. Others deem it the worst kind of fashion crime though, especially if the ‘full uniform’ look is being attempted.

Unfortunately for those folks in the latter category, there is a big market for this clobber. Indeed, all eleven teams competing in 2014 offer it via their own official outlets.

The ranges on offer vary as, of course, do prices. Comparing a basket of commonly-available items clearly shows that some fans will be paying considerably more than others.


Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team

Currently leading this year’s Constructors’ Championship, Mercedes AMG has a wide selection of branded goods. Apart from clothing there are some fairly unusual things for sale, including an ear plugs canister, a thermo mug and a sun-cream spray.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	£45.00	€50.00
Women’s t-shirt	£27.00	€30.00
Men’s polo shirt	£63.00	€70.00
Women’s polo shirt	£58.50	€65.00
Rain jacket	£144.00	€160.00
Cap	£27.00	€30.00

Infiniti Red Bull Racing

Red Bull Racing only seems to retail its stuff in euros, so the sterling amounts shown below have been converted at the current exchange rate. Another team with an extensive collection, which reflects its success over recent seasons.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	£35.49	€44.95
Women’s t-shirt	£43.38	€54.95
Men’s polo shirt	£51.28	€64.95
Women’s polo shirt	£51.28	€64.95
Rain jacket	£149.97	€189.95
Cap	£23.65	€29.95

Williams Martini Racing

It’d be fairly difficult to make anything adorned with Martini stripes look awful. Luckily Williams’ 2014 apparel doesn’t, plus it’s reasonably priced too.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	£40.00	€45.00
Women’s t-shirt	£40.00	€45.00
Men’s polo shirt	£55.00	€65.00
Women’s polo shirt	£55.00	€65.00
Rain jacket	£125.00	€150.00
Cap	£25.00	€30.00

Scuderia Ferrari

Ferrari has a gained a reputation for placing its branding on just about anything (Ferrari tennis racquet, anyone?). Surprisingly it doesn’t produce a women’s t-shirt or polo shirt in team colours, though. Moreover, customers in the UK should feel aggrieved because the euro prices appear to offer much better value for money versus their sterling equivalents.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	£55.00	€54.00
Women’s t-shirt	N/A	N/A
Men’s polo shirt	£70.00	€68.00
Women’s polo shirt	N/A	N/A
Rain jacket	£160.00	€156.00
Cap	£35.00	€34.00

Sahara Force India Formula One Team

Force India’s selection isn’t as extensive as those of some other teams, yet.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	N/A	N/A
Women’s t-shirt	£39.95	€46.51
Men’s polo shirt	£39.95	€46.51
Women’s polo shirt	N/A	N/A
Rain jacket	£149.95	€174.56
Cap	£27.95	€32.54

McLaren Mercedes

Replica team wear is just one element of McLaren’s merchandising operation. It’s worth noting that members of Team McLaren get decent discounts and free delivery, although the annual subscription is £35 for an adult (or £20 for under 13s).

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	£39.95	€44.95
Women’s t-shirt	£39.95	€44.95
Men’s polo shirt	£57.95	€67.95
Women’s polo shirt	N/A	N/A
Rain jacket	£149.95	€169.95
Cap	£24.95	€29.95

Scuderia Toro Rosso

Toro Rosso sells its products via the same online shop that Red Bull Racing uses. Compared to its sister team fewer articles are available, but prices are likewise denominated in euros only.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	£35.49	€44.95
Women’s t-shirt	£31.54	€39.95
Men’s polo shirt	£51.28	€64.95
Women’s polo shirt	N/A	N/A
Rain jacket	N/A	N/A
Cap	£23.65	€29.95

Lotus F1 Team

The only team that doesn’t offer either men’s or women’s polo shirts is Lotus. Replica short-sleeve shirts can be bought instead, which are £93.00 (€112.00) each.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	£38.00	€46.00
Women’s t-shirt	£38.00	€46.00
Men’s polo shirt	N/A	N/A
Women’s polo shirt	N/A	N/A
Rain jacket	£126.00	€152.00
Cap	£28.00	€34.00

Marussia F1 Team

Demand for Marussia’s wares is probably relatively limited. That could explain why there are only eleven pieces in its entire range (of which four are hats of various descriptions). However, pricing is keen and Marussia is the only team that sells a cap for under £20.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	N/A	N/A
Women’s t-shirt	N/A	N/A
Men’s polo shirt	£51.15	€59.26
Women’s polo shirt	£51.15	€59.26
Rain jacket	£135.52	€157.01
Cap	£19.18	€22.23

Sauber F1 Team

Sauber is another team with an online shop that only accepts euros, so the exact sterling figure that a UK customer will end up paying is going to depend on what exchange rate their credit card provider applies.

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	£27.63	€35.00
Women’s t-shirt	N/A	N/A
Men’s polo shirt	£39.48	€50.00
Women’s polo shirt	£39.48	€50.00
Rain jacket	£98.69	€125.00
Cap	£23.69	€30.00

Caterham F1 Team

A recent change of ownership and zero points so far this year doubtless mean that replica attire is a relatively low priority for Caterham. Nevertheless it’s the team with the most expensive polo shirts, although a current promotion has temporarily reduced them to a much more reasonable £45.00 (€54.00).

Currency	Sterling	Euro
Men’s t-shirt	N/A	N/A
Women’s t-shirt	N/A	N/A
Men’s polo shirt	£68.00	€81.60
Women’s polo shirt	£68.00	€81.60
Rain jacket	N/A	N/A
Cap	£25.00	€30.00

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Last-generation Ford Falcon first view

July 26, 2014, 11:53 am

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In a little over two years’ time, Ford will close its manufacturing operations in Australia. One of the casualties of that move is going to be the Victoria-built Falcon, which won’t be replaced.

Consequently, the minor changes just announced for 2014 are probably the model’s final updates.

A new trapezoidal front grille and revised headlights are the most obvious facelift elements. Influenced by Ford’s latest global design language, the alterations work well and give the Falcon a stronger visual link to other vehicles in the range.

The restyle also coincides with the return of the XR8 to the Falcon line-up after a four-year absence. As well as its V8 engine (details of which have yet to be confirmed), this variant is distinguished by a ‘power dome’ on the bonnet, a rear diffuser and a unique exhaust system.

Sales of the 2014 Falcon are due to begin during the fourth quarter of this year. Full specifications and pricing will be revealed closer to the launch date.

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Plug-in Cayenne S E-Hybrid unveiled

July 27, 2014, 3:42 pm

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Porsche has announced the arrival of the Cayenne S E-Hybrid, which replaces the previous S Hybrid model. It’s being described as the world’s first premium plug-in hybrid SUV, presumably to distinguish Porsche’s offering from the non-premium (but already available) Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

The S E-Hybrid’s powertrain comprises a 328 bhp (245 kW / 333 PS) 3.0 litre V6 supercharged petrol engine, a 94 bhp (70 kW / 95 PS) electric motor, a 10.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission.

Together, they give a total system output of 410 bhp (306 kW / 416 PS) with 590 Nm (435 lb/ft) of peak torque. That allows the hybrid Cayenne to accelerate from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.9 seconds before hitting a top speed of 151 mph (243 km/h).

An official combined cycle figure of 83.0 mpg (3.4 l/100km) and carbon dioxide emissions of 79 g/km are impressive, but it’ll be interesting to see what economy is actually like in real-world conditions. Similarly, the modest electric-only range is quoted at between 11 and 22 miles (18 and 36 kilometres) because driving style is going to significantly affect battery life.

The launch of the S E-Hybrid coincides with a minor refresh for the entire Cayenne range. Although the front end has been completely redesigned, the facelift is very subtle so the changes are difficult to spot. It’s a similar story at the rear, where the tailgate and light clusters have been tweaked.

In another key development, the Cayenne S gains a new 3.6 litre bi-turbo petrol V6. Producing 414 bhp (309 kW / 420 PS) with 550 Nm (405 lb/ft) of torque, it delivers a 0-62 mph time of 5.5 seconds and a 161 mph (259 km/h) top speed.

Sales of the 2015 Cayenne are set to begin in October. UK prices start from £49,902 and, tellingly, the S E-Hybrid and S Diesel will cost exactly the same.

Version	UK	Germany
Cayenne Diesel	£49,902	€66,260
Cayenne S	£60,218	€80,183
Cayenne S Diesel	£61,474	€82,087
Cayenne S E-Hybrid	£61,474	€82,087
Cayenne Turbo	£93,763	€128,378

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2015 European COTY candidates

July 28, 2014, 11:55 am

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34 models have qualified for inclusion on the 2015 European Car of the Year candidate list. As per the award’s rules, all are going to be available in five or more European markets by the end of this year and they’re each expected to achieve annual sales of at least 5,000 units.

Naturally it’s an eclectic collection, but BMW is the most prolific marque with four entries. Mercedes-Benz and Nissan meanwhile have three apiece:

• Audi TT
• BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
• BMW 2 Series Coupé
• BMW i8
• BMW X4
• Citroën C1
• Citroën C4 Cactus
• Fiat 500X
• Ford EcoSport
• Ford Mondeo
• Hyundai i20
• Infiniti Q50
• Jeep Renegade
• Kia Soul
• Lexus NX
• Lexus RC
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class
• Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
• Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupé
• Mini Hatch
• Nissan Pulsar
• Nissan Qashqai
• Nissan X-Trail
• Peugeot 108
• Porsche Macan
• Renault Twingo
• Škoda Fabia
• Smart forfour
• Smart fortwo
• Subaru WRX STI
• Suzuki Celerio
• Toyota Aygo
• Vauxhall / Opel Corsa
• Volkswagen Passat

The front-wheel drive 2 Series Active Tourer is one of four BMW

models on the 2015 European Car of the Year candidate list.

It’s now up to the 58 jurors to determine a shortlist of seven nominees, which is due to be announced on the 15th of December this year. A second round of voting will then take place to decide the overall winner. The result of that final ballot is going to be revealed on the 2nd of March 2015 at the Geneva Motor Show.

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2015 Mercedes-Benz Vito first view

July 30, 2014, 3:35 pm

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Following the launch of its all-new V-Class people carrier earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz has now unveiled the Vito mid-size van. Both vehicles share the same bodyshell, but the commercial version is understandably less luxurious and there are some significant specification differences.

The most notable concerns the powertrain. Uniquely for this segment, buyers will be able to choose from front-, rear- or all-wheel drive configurations. However, for the time being at least, the last of those options is being denied to UK operators.

Powering the front-wheel drive models is a 1.6 litre, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. The remaining variants meanwhile get the same 2.1 litre unit that’s used in the V-Class. In all, five different outputs are being offered:

Model	Engine	Power	Transmission
109 CDI	1.6 litre	87 bhp (65 kW / 88 PS)	6-speed manual
111 CDI	1.6 litre	113 bhp (84 kW/ 114 PS)	6-speed manual
114 CDI	2.1 litre	134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS)	6-speed manual*
116 CDI	2.1 litre	161 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS)	6-speed manual*
119 BlueTEC	2.1 litre	187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS)	7-speed automatic
* 7-speed automatic optional.

The 2015 Vito will be available in panel van, combi and minibus guises with lengths of 4,895 mm (16’ 1”), 5,140 mm (16’ 10”) or 5,370 mm (17’ 7”). Gross vehicle weights vary from 2.8 to 3.2 tonnes, giving a payload capacity of up to 1,369 kg (3,018 lbs).

A launch date and pricing for the UK have yet to be confirmed. In Germany, though, sales are due to begin in October and there the Vito will cost from €17,990 (excluding VAT).

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SsangYong unveils two anniversary editions

July 31, 2014, 6:04 am

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This year marks 60 years since Korean marque SsangYong began vehicle production. So, to celebrate that anniversary, a couple of special editions have been announced for the UK.

The first is based on the Korando ELX4 crossover. Available only with metallic pearl white paintwork, its extra equipment includes 18” diamond cut wheels, a rear spoiler and an electric sunroof.

With a manual gearbox the price is £21,245, but opting for an automatic transmission instead sees the figure rise to £22,745. Both amounts represent a premium of £1,250 compared to the cost of a regular Korando ELX4.

Likewise the Rexton W 60th Anniversary Edition also comes with a metallic pearl white finish. Using the EX trim grade as a starting point, this model gains heated seats front and rear, power adjustment for the front passenger seat, an electric sunroof, front parking sensors and an infotainment system with DAB radio and satellite navigation.

Prices are £25,995 and £27,495 for the manual and automatic transmission versions respectively. While those sums mean an anniversary edition will be £1,500 more than a standard EX, they still represent reasonable value given the added specification.

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Cadillac ATS-L created for China

July 31, 2014, 7:29 am

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Buyers of premium cars in China place much status on having plenty of rear-seat room, which is why manufacturers will develop extended-wheelbase models especially for that market.

The latest recipient of this treatment is the Cadillac ATS. In the transition to ATS-L, it has been stretched by a fairly modest 85 mm (3.3”).

All of the additional length appears aft of the B-pillar. As a result, passengers sitting in the back benefit from extra legroom and headroom, as well as redesigned seating.

Of course, cars like the ATS-L are proof that customers’ wants aren’t always rational. After all, if more interior space is such a priority, why not just get the larger CTS instead?

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Images © General Motors.

Toyota GT86 CS-R3 rally car revealed

July 31, 2014, 11:17 am

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Toyota Motorsport has been busy developing a special rally version of the GT86 coupé. Called the CS-R3, it’ll be eligible to compete in Group R events such as the WRC-3 championship.

Numerous modifications set the GT86 CS-R3 apart from the showroom model. Key among them are changes to the 2.0 litre normally-aspirated boxer engine, which see its power increase from the usual 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) to around 245 bhp (182 kW / 248 PS).

Furthermore, a six-speed sequential transmission and a rear axle limited-slip differential are fitted, as are revised suspension components that can be adjusted for gravel or tarmac stages. Additional safety items include a full roll cage and a replacement fuel tank.

Toyota is keen to point out that the GT86 CS-R3 is intended to be a cost-effective option for private teams. However, pricing has still to be announced.

The car’s public debut is scheduled for August’s ADAC Rallye Deutschland, where it’ll be used as the official ‘pathfinder’ safety car. Deliveries are then expected to begin during the first quarter of 2015, subject to homologation by the FIA.

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Citroën DS3 Cabrio by Benefit special edition

August 1, 2014, 12:05 pm

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Citroën’s ongoing marketing tie-in with Benefit Cosmetics has yielded a fourth special edition DS3. However, unlike the previous models, this one’s based on the convertible.

Called the DS3 Cabrio DStyle by Benefit, it features white paintwork and a black fabric roof. A fuchsia pink finish for the door mirror caps, wheel centres and unique badges completes the look.

Inside, there are bespoke floor mats and a white dashboard that bears a Benefit-inspired polka dot graphic. To add some extra luxury, Bluetooth connectivity and the City Signature pack are also included in the specification.

A 1.6 litre, four-cylinder petrol unit is the only available engine option. It produces 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS) and comes connected to a five-speed manual transmission.

Launched today, the DS3 Cabrio DStyle by Benefit costs £18,745.

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2015 Harley-Davidson Road Glide unveiled

August 2, 2014, 1:27 pm

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With the launch of the 2015 Road Glide, a familiar name is returning to Harley-Davidson’s range.

The most obvious new feature is a redesigned frame-mounted fairing. It might not be especially elegant, but Harley-Davidson is saying that the aerodynamics have been carefully honed and automatic vents will equalise air pressure either side of the windscreen. As a result, head-buffeting and rider fatigue are claimed to be much reduced.

Standard equipment includes a 4.3” colour infotainment screen that sits above the instruments, dual LED headlights and a reprofiled handlebar that’s less of a stretch to reach. Furthermore, the Road Glide Special gets an upgraded 6.5” screen, satellite navigation, ‘Reflex’ anti-lock linked brakes and hand-applied pinstripes.

Power for both models is provided by a fuel-injected, air-cooled, 1,690 cc High Output Twin Cam 103 V-twin engine. Its output is delivered to a chain drive system via a six-speed transmission.

In the United States, prices for the 2015 Road Glide and Road Glide Special will start from $20,899 and $23,199 respectively. Sales there are due to begin at the end of this month.

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2015 NACTOY candidates announced

August 3, 2014, 3:29 pm

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Lists of the vehicles eligible for the 2015 North American Car of the Year and Truck / Utility of the Year awards have been published.

They will now be circulated to jurors for them to decide which models should be included on the shortlists for each category. Those that make it through are then going to be subject to a second ballot to determine the top three finalists.

The last stage of the process is a third vote to select the overall winners. The results of that are due to be announced in December at the North American International Auto Show.

2015 North American Car of the Year candidates:

• Acura TLX
• Alfa Romeo 4C
• Audi A3
• BMW M3
• BMW M4
• BMW i3
• BMW i8
• Cadillac ATS Coupe
• Chrysler 200
• Dodge Challenger
• Dodge Charger
• Ford Mustang
• Honda Fit
• Hyundai Genesis sedan
• Hyundai Sonata
• Jaguar F-Type Coupe
• Kia K900
• Lexus RC
• Maserati Ghibli
• Mercedes-Benz B-Class electric
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class
• Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe
• Subaru Legacy
• Subaru WRX / WRX STi
• Toyota Camry
• Toyota Yaris
• Volkswagen Golf / GTI
• Volvo V60

The Cadillac ATS Sedan was named North American Car of the

Year in 2013. Now the Coupe version could repeat that feat.

2015 North American Truck / Utility of the Year candidates:

• Audi Q3
• BMW X4
• Cadillac Escalade
• Chevrolet Colorado
• Chevrolet Suburban
• Chevrolet Tahoe
• Chevrolet Trax
• Ford Edge
• Ford Expedition
• Ford F-150
• Ford F-Series HD
• Ford Transit Connect
• GMC Canyon
• GMC Yukon
• GMC Yukon XL
• Honda HR-V
• Jeep Renegade
• Kia Sedona
• Kia Soul EV
• Lexus NX
• Lincoln MKC
• Lincoln Navigator
• Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
• Nissan Murano
• Porsche Macan
• Ram ProMaster City
• Subaru Outback
• Volvo XC60
• Volvo XC90

The Ram ProMaster City is one of the contenders for the

2015 North American Truck / Utility of the Year prize.

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2015 Indian Scout revealed

August 4, 2014, 12:14 pm

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Its name is old and the neat styling has a distinctly retro flavour, but the all-new 2015 Indian Scout is a thoroughly modern motorcycle.

Take the frame, for example. Rather than steel, cast aluminium has been used instead which has helped to keep the bike’s wet weight down to a fairly manageable 253 kg (558 lbs). Furthermore, a low centre of gravity, a 31° lean angle and a seat height of just 643 mm (25.3”) should mean decent manoeuvrability at both high and low speeds.

Then there’s the 1,133 cc (69 cu. in.) V-twin engine that features liquid cooling and fuel injection. Producing a claimed 100 bhp (74 kW / 101 PS) with 97 Nm (72 lb/ft) of torque, it comes connected to a six-speed transmission.

Available to order now, prices for the 2015 Indian Scout start at £10,399 in the UK and $10,999 in the US. Customer deliveries are expected to begin late this year.

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Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard unveiled

August 5, 2014, 3:55 pm

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Politicians, captains of industry, gangsters and any prospective S-Class buyers concerned about their security are going to be very interested in the new S 600 Guard. It has been built to achieve VR9 resistance levels, which means the car features armour that will withstand high-velocity rifle fire and defend against splinters from grenades or other explosive devices.

To achieve such protection, the S 600 Guard incorporates an array of special modifications. The glass, for example, is much thicker and it’s coated in polycarbonate. Furthermore, aramide and additional steel plates have been added to the bodywork, while redesigned panels overlap more at vulnerable points.

Power is provided by a 523 bhp (390 kW / 530 PS) V12 engine that’s mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. However, the S 600 Guard weighs considerably more than a regular S-Class thanks to its added specification, so top speed is restricted to 130 mph (210 km/h).

That extra bulk is also the reason for numerous chassis component upgrades. The standard-fit Airmatic suspension is strengthened, there are supplementary steel rear springs, run-flat tyres are fitted and the braking set-up gains larger calipers and discs.

Customers can order the S 600 Guard in either four- or five-seat configurations. Options include an emergency fresh air supply, a 360° camera, a built-in automatic fire extinguisher and a night vision system.   

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BBR Super 200 package for the Mazda MX-5

August 9, 2014, 11:09 am

≫ Next: 2014 Durango Blacktop Appearance Package

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Owners of the 2005-onwards Mazda MX-5 2.0i can now have their cars upgraded to 201 bhp (149 kW / 203 PS) courtesy of tuner BBR.

Rather than resorting to a turbocharger or supercharger, the Super 200 kit relies on a series of more traditional modifications to achieve its extra output. These include an ECU remap, a high-flow air filter and revised camshaft profiles. Furthermore, the exhaust system gains a manifold and end pipes fabricated from stainless steel.

A set of badges for the front wings and rear end discretely advertise the alterations, which fully fitted cost £2,195. Alternatively, the Super 200 components are available with a price tag of £1,695 for DIY installation.

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2014 Durango Blacktop Appearance Package

August 10, 2014, 11:59 am

≫ Next: 2015 Dodge Charger Pursuit launched

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Dodge has announced that its Durango SUV is now available with the Blacktop Appearance Package.

Contents and cost vary depending on the trim grade selected. On the Hemi V8-powered R/T, the Blacktop specification is limited to a set of gloss black 20” wheels, a matching front grille and special badges. In the United States, that lot adds $295 to the price.

The V6-equipped SXT additionally gains gloss black door mirror caps, body-coloured bumpers, black headlight bezels and a dual rear exhaust with bright tips for $1,590. Finally, the Blacktop upgrade for the Limited variant is the most expensive at $1,990 because it includes HID headlamps and LED daytime running lights as well.

Customer deliveries of the Blacktop-equipped Durango are due to begin in October.

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2015 Dodge Charger Pursuit launched

August 11, 2014, 8:47 am

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Following the unveiling of its new 2015 Charger earlier this year, Dodge has introduced a special Pursuit version for law enforcement agencies.

Compared to the civilian model the Charger Pursuit has plenty of modifications. Among them is a supplementary wiring harness and fusing that should make the installation of lights, sirens, cameras, computers and any other extra items much simpler. Also fitted is a slide-out ‘trunk tray’ upon which electronic devices can be mounted.

Unique interior features include a column-mounted gearshift lever and redesigned front-seat bolsters. Facing the driver is a 7” customisable instrument display screen, while the central part of the dashboard houses a 5” touchscreen that controls the Uconnect telematics system. Furthermore, the steering wheel has programmable buttons that can be set to activate aftermarket emergency equipment.

Like the regular Charger, operators can choose from either a 3.6 litre Pentastar V6 engine that produces 292 bhp (218 kW / 296 PS) or the 370 bhp (276 kW / 375 PS) 5.7 litre Hemi V8. Both come with rear-wheel drive, although the latter can be specified with all-wheel drive instead.

There aren’t too many mechanical changes, but the Charger Pursuit does boast larger and stronger brakes to help cope with the rigours of police use. For the same reason, the wheels are made from steel rather than aluminium.

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