2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 unveiled

October 5, 2014, 1:32 pm

≫ Next: Three Bonneville special editions launched

≪ Previous: BMW updates its S 1000 RR for 2015

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Kawasaki’s dual-purpose Versys 650 is receiving a comprehensive update.

The most visible change is the restyled bodywork, which looks much better than before thanks to a new fairing that incorporates dual headlights and an adjustable windscreen. Sitting behind it is a larger 21 litre (4.6 gallon) fuel tank.

Beneath the bike’s skin, a stronger rear subframe offers an enhanced luggage-carrying capability. To help make the most of that, the suspension settings have been recalibrated, the rear end gains a remote preload adjuster and the front fork now splits the rebound damping and preload functions between the two legs.

Another aspect to get attention is the braking system. Along with a bigger rear petal disc and tweaks to the master cylinder, the calipers and pads have been replaced.

Power is still provided by a fuel-injected 649 cc parallel-twin engine. However, output is up from 63 bhp (47 kW / 64 PS) to 68 bhp (51 kW / 69 PS), while peak torque has risen by 3 Nm (2 lb/ft) to 64 Nm (47 lb/ft). Not huge increases then, but Kawasaki is promising improved performance at higher revs.

Buyers of the 2015 Versys 650 will have a choice of Sparkle Black / Ebony two-tone, Stardust White or Shining Yellow paint schemes. A UK price has yet to be announced.

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Three Bonneville special editions launched

October 6, 2014, 7:17 am

≫ Next: Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2014

≪ Previous: 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 unveiled

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Triumph has announced three new special edition models, all of which are based on its Bonneville.

Bonneville Newchurch

The first is named after Neukirchen, a town in Austria that hosts the annual Tridays event for Triumph owners.

Offered in a choice of Sapphire Blue / Pure White or Cranberry Red / Pure White two-tone colour schemes, the Newchurch gains a black finish for its seven-spoke cast wheels, handlebar, mudguards, headlight bowl and mirrors. It’s also equipped with a low-profile saddle.

An on-the-road price of £6,999 in the UK means the Newchurch is £200 more than a regular Bonneville.

Bonneville Spirit

Using the Bonneville T100 as a starting point, the Spirit features a shorter rear mudguard taken from the Thruxton and the Scrambler’s smaller headlight.

It comes in a unique Spirit Blue / New England White paintjob, with contrast provided by blackened components. White saddle stitching completes the look.

Triumph is charging £7,499 for the Bonneville Spirit.

Bonneville T214

Lastly there’s the T214. That name recalls the 214.4 mph motorcycle land speed record set by Johnny Allen and his Triumph-powered streamliner in 1956 at the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Sharing much of its specification with the Spirit, the T214 wears a Caspian Blue / Pure White livery which has been inspired by the record-breaking bike of 58 years ago.

With worldwide production being limited to 1,000 examples, it costs £7,849.

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Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2014

October 6, 2014, 11:40 am

≫ Next: Suzuki Address 110 scooter revealed

≪ Previous: Three Bonneville special editions launched

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Figures just published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that 1,958,196 new cars were registered in the UK to the end of September. While the figure represents a 9.1% increase on the same period last year, market growth appears to be levelling off.

Take September in isolation, for example. Registrations for this important plate-change month amounted to 425,861 in 2014, making it the best September in a decade. However, compared to 2013’s total, that was a rise of only 5.6%.

Unsurprisingly, the Ford Fiesta has easily maintained its position as the UK’s best-selling car, followed by the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Corsa.

Yes, it's still the UK's most popular car.

Indeed, the entire top ten league table is virtually identical to last quarter’s. There was just one change in positions, thanks to the Audi A3 and Volkswagen Polo swapping places.

Top 10: Cumulative UK Car Registrations Q3 2014
Position	Manufacturer	Model	Registrations
1	Ford	Fiesta	106,930
2	Ford	Focus	67,015
3	Vauxhall	Corsa	62,693
4	Volkswagen	Golf	58,664
5	Vauxhall	Astra	47,482
6	Nissan	Qashqai	38,920
7	Volkswagen	Polo	36,772
8	Audi	A3	35,596
9	Fiat	500	35,032
10	BMW	3 Series	29,655

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Suzuki Address 110 scooter revealed

October 6, 2014, 12:55 pm

≫ Next: Kawasaki gives the Versys 1000 a makeover

≪ Previous: Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2014

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Next spring will see the 2015 Address 110 scooter arrive at Suzuki dealers.

Aimed at commuters, the newcomer is powered by a 113 cc, four-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that’s connected to a continuously variable automatic transmission. On the benchmark World Motorcycle Test Cycle, it achieves an impressive 139 mpg (2.0 l/100km / 49 km/l).

As would be expected, the standard equipment list isn’t particularly extensive. However, the specification does include cast aluminium wheels, a front disc brake (the rear uses a drum) and a luggage rack. Furthermore, there’s an under-seat compartment that can accommodate a full-face helmet, plus two additional storage areas in the leg shield.

Suzuki has yet to confirm a price, but when sales begin the Indonesian-made Address 110 is going to be available in a choice of Titan Black, Brilliant White or metallic Ice Silver paint finishes.

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Kawasaki gives the Versys 1000 a makeover

October 7, 2014, 10:23 am

≫ Next: The Suzuki Bandit 1250S returns

≪ Previous: Suzuki Address 110 scooter revealed

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It’s not just the Versys 650 that’s being updated for 2015. Kawasaki has applied a similar treatment to the larger Versys 1000, too.

Without a doubt the greatest improvement is to the styling. A completely redesigned fairing, which is reckoned to offer better wind protection, features dual headlights and a new more adjustable screen.

Modifications to the twin-tube aluminium frame have increased the bike’s payload capacity and, to make the most of that, an optional one-key pannier set is available. Furthermore, a centre stand is now fitted as standard.

Power still comes from a 1,043 cc four-cylinder engine, but power has risen by a negligible 2 bhp to 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS). Peak torque meanwhile is unchanged at 102 Nm (75 lb/ft).

One downside to the revisions is an increase in kerb weight. The 2015 Versys 1000 tips the scales at 250 kg (551 lbs), which is 11 kg (24 lbs) more than its predecessor. A small reduction in seat height from 845 mm (33.3”) to 840 mm (33.1”) might compensate a little for the extra bulk, though.

Kawasaki has yet to confirm UK pricing.

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The Suzuki Bandit 1250S returns

October 7, 2014, 11:36 am

≫ Next: 2015 C 600 Sport and C 650 GT editions

≪ Previous: Kawasaki gives the Versys 1000 a makeover

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Suzuki has decided to reintroduce the Bandit 1250S to its UK motorcycle range.

Distinguishing the latest 2015 model is a redesigned half-fairing that now features radiator shrouds. As well as being more aerodynamic, it’s claimed to offer improved wind protection.

Power is provided by an updated version of the familiar four-cylinder, liquid-cooled 1,255 cc engine, which is combined with a six-speed transmission.

Standard equipment includes anti-lock brakes, a centre stand and a height-adjustable saddle. Buyers will have a choice of Glass Sparkle Black, Candy Daring Red or Pearl Glacier White paintwork.

A price for the 2015 Bandit 1250S hasn’t been announced yet, but expect it to cost slightly less than the very similar £7,895 GSX1250FA.

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2015 C 600 Sport and C 650 GT editions

October 7, 2014, 3:17 pm

≫ Next: Nissan Pulsar Nismo Concept unveiled

≪ Previous: The Suzuki Bandit 1250S returns

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New special edition versions of the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT maxi scooters have been revealed by BMW.

The GT variant is distinguished by an Ebony / Monolith two-tone paint finish. It also gains the Highline package that consists of heated grips, heated seats, tyre pressure monitoring and LED daytime running lights.

Alternatively, the Sport – which has a Racing Blue / Sapphire Black colour scheme – additionally comes with an Akraprovic exhaust and a sports seat.

Both models are due to arrive at dealers next spring. Prices will be announced closer to their launch date.

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Nissan Pulsar Nismo Concept unveiled

October 8, 2014, 4:27 am

≫ Next: 2015 911 Carrera GTS models revealed

≪ Previous: 2015 C 600 Sport and C 650 GT editions

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It was almost inevitable that Nissan would create a high-performance Nismo version of the new Pulsar hatchback. And now that car has been revealed, at least in concept form.

A purposeful look is provided by a full body kit that comprises a restyled front bumper, side skirts, wheelarch extensions and a rear diffuser. Also fitted are 19” ten-spoke alloy wheels and a carbon fibre spoiler.

The sporty theme continues inside, where the Pulsar Nismo Concept has been equipped with Alcantara-trimmed front sports seats, alloy pedals and unique instrument graphics.

Chassis tweaks include a lowered suspension set-up which benefits from recalibrated dampers and springs. The steering is said to be more responsive, too.

However, Nissan hasn’t disclosed anything about the engine. One of the more likely candidates has to be the 1.6 litre turbocharged petrol unit from the Juke Nismo that develops 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) with 250 Nm (184 lb/ft) of torque.

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2015 911 Carrera GTS models revealed

October 8, 2014, 1:45 pm

≫ Next: 2015 Škoda Fabia Combi unveiled

≪ Previous: Nissan Pulsar Nismo Concept unveiled

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Porsche is plugging the gap between the Carrera S and GT3 in its 911 range with some new Carrera GTS variants.

Available in coupé and cabriolet guises with a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive, power is provided by a six-cylinder 3.8 litre engine that produces 423 bhp (316 kW / 430 PS). Peak torque meanwhile is 440 Nm (324 lb/ft).

The GTS comes with the Sport Chrono package, but performance ultimately depends on whether the seven-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission is specified.

Version	Transmission	0-62 mph (100 km/h)	Top speed
Carrera GTS	Manual	4.4 secs	190 mph (306 km/h)
Carrera GTS	PDK	4.0 secs	189 mph (304 km/h)
Carrera GTS Cabriolet	Manual	4.6 secs	188 mph (304 km/h)
Carrera GTS Cabriolet	PDK	4.2 secs	188 mph (302 km/h)
Carrera 4 GTS	Manual	4.4 secs	188 mph (304 km/h)
Carrera 4 GTS	PDK	4.0 secs	188 mph (302 km/h)
Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet	Manual	4.6 secs	188 mph (303 km/h)
Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet	PDK	4.2 secs	187 mph (301 km/h)

Standard equipment includes sports seats, leather and Alcantara upholstery, the PASM active damper system, a set of matt black 20” centre-locking alloy wheels and bi-xenon headlights. Furthermore, all versions feature the Carrera 4’s wider rear bodywork.

Deliveries of the 2015 911 Carrera GTS are due to begin in November. Prices in the UK start from £91,098.

Carrera GTS	Manual	£91,098
Carrera GTS	PDK	£93,915
Carrera GTS Cabriolet	Manual	£95,862
Carrera GTS Cabriolet	PDK	£98,679
Carrera 4 GTS	Manual	£99,602
Carrera 4 GTS	PDK	£102,419
Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet	Manual	£104,385
Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet	PDK	£107,202

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2015 Škoda Fabia Combi unveiled

October 9, 2014, 5:14 am

≫ Next: Renault Captur Signature launched

≪ Previous: 2015 911 Carrera GTS models revealed

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Early next year, Škoda’s new Fabia range will be joined by a Combi version.

Most people are going to buy the Fabia estate for its extra practicality. And they won’t be disappointed because, with the backseats upright, boot capacity is a class-leading 530 litres. Folding down the rear bench increases that volume to 1,395 litres, allowing items up to 1.55 metres (5’ 1”) long to be carried.

To keep any cargo from prying eyes there’s a retractable and removable load space cover. What’s more, netting restraints and a movable shelf that divides the luggage area into two horizontal compartments are being offered as cost options.

Apart from having more interior room, the 2015 Fabia Combi also manages to look much better than its predecessor. That’s partly down to the crisper styling, but wider and lower proportions are the main reason.

UK prices and final specifications have yet to be confirmed.

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Renault Captur Signature launched

October 9, 2014, 9:31 am

≫ Next: Ferrari creates the celebratory F60America

≪ Previous: 2015 Škoda Fabia Combi unveiled

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Renault’s Captur crossover is now available in range-topping Signature guise.

On the outside some extra chrome trim, a set of 17” ‘Explore’ alloy wheels and a two-tone colour scheme identify the new trim grade.

Standard equipment includes a rear parking camera and the R-Link infotainment system. Based around a 7” touchscreen, the latter incorporates satellite navigation and an upgraded audio system.

The Signature’s cabin also features part-leather upholstery and bright red embellishments courtesy of the Red Touch Pack. Unique doorsill kick plates meanwhile provide a finishing touch.

Buyers will have a choice of the usual petrol and diesel engines. On this particular model, all benefit from Grip Xtend traction control which makes the Captur more capable over rough or slippery terrain.

UK prices for the Signature variant start from £17,495.

Version	Fuel	Transmission	CO2	VED band	Combined cycle	Price
Captur Signature Energy TCe 90	Petrol	5-speed manual	115 g/km	C	56.5 mpg (5.0 l/100km)	£17,495
Captur Signature Energy dCi 90	Diesel	5-speed manual	95 g/km	A	78.5 mpg (3.6 l/100km)	£18,895
Captur Signature TCe 120	Petrol	6-speed automatic	125 g/km	D	52.3 mpg (5.4 l/100km)	£19,695
Captur Signature dCi 90	Diesel	6-speed automatic	103 g/km	B	72.4 mpg (3.9 l/100km)	£19,895

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Ferrari creates the celebratory F60America

October 10, 2014, 11:41 am

≫ Next: 2015 Holden VF Commodore unveiled

≪ Previous: Renault Captur Signature launched

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There’s bad news for anybody who wanted to buy an F60America: only ten examples are being built, and they’ve all been sold already.

Conceived by Ferrari to mark 60 years since the brand arrived in North America, it combines a bespoke open-top aluminium body with the F12’s normally aspirated 730 bhp (545 kW / 740 PS) V12 engine. That output, which is delivered via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, results in a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.1 seconds.

The F60America is finished in the classic blue North American Racing Team livery and it manages to appear striking from every angle. Deep bonnet vents, dramatically sculptured flanks and a pair of roll hoops with their attendant carbon fibre buttresses all contribute to the car’s unique look.

It’s a similar story inside. Both occupants sit in racing seats that have a stars and stripes motif running down their centres. However, the driver’s side of the cockpit features bright red upholstery and composite materials, in contrast to the passenger’s much more sombre surroundings.

The F60America’s style and exclusivity certainly didn’t come cheap. Reports suggest that Ferrari charged $2.5 million for each one, a price tag that equates to around £1.56 million or €1.98 million at current exchange rates.

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2015 Holden VF Commodore unveiled

October 10, 2014, 3:15 pm

≫ Next: Phantom Metropolitan Collection launched

≪ Previous: Ferrari creates the celebratory F60America

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Holden is giving its VF Commodore some minor updates for 2015.

Across the range, the electronic power steering system has been modified to enhance both feel and response. There are now three distinct settings called ‘Touring’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport and Competitive’ that vary according to trim grade.

The last of those steering calibrations is reserved exclusively for the SS V Redline model. It also gains black 19” split-rim alloy wheels, a new black interior and, when automatic transmission is specified, steering wheel paddle-shifters. Furthermore, a black finish for the roof panel is going to be available as an option for the first time with selected body colours.

Improved reversing camera software and a couple of additional paint shades are among the other changes. Choosing which VF Commodore version to buy should be slightly easier than before, as both the base-spec Caprice and LPG-powered SV6 have been discontinued.

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Image © General Motors.

Phantom Metropolitan Collection launched

October 11, 2014, 2:55 pm

≫ Next: Toyota is 2014’s most valuable auto brand

≪ Previous: 2015 Holden VF Commodore unveiled

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Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke division has unveiled the Phantom Metropolitan Collection, of which only 20 examples are going to be built.

Identifying this particular edition is a hand-painted coachline that portrays an abstract city skyline. Paintwork choice is essentially limitless, as buyers can have their Metropolitan Collection car finished in whatever colour they desire.

The really special features are inside the cabin, though. At first glance, the city views adorning the dashboard and picnic tables appear to be decals. However, take a closer look and it’s revealed that the effect has been achieved by marquetry, a process involving 500 individual wood veneer inlays. The result is remarkable.

Other interior touches include a unique clock which has 24 world cities and their time zones represented on its rotating bezel. The seats meanwhile are upholstered in Aetherius Grey leather, with those in the rear bearing a subtle embroidered skyscraper motif.

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Toyota is 2014’s most valuable auto brand

October 12, 2014, 2:01 pm

≫ Next: Mercedes-Benz G-Class Edition 35 unveiled

≪ Previous: Phantom Metropolitan Collection launched

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Interbrand has published the Best 100 Brands list for 2014. Created using a bespoke valuation methodology, it features fourteen automotive marques.

Given numerous recent vehicle recalls and a somewhat staid image, Toyota’s eighth place in the study might be a surprise. Nevertheless, Interbrand cited several reasons for that ranking, including the firm’s crisis management approach. Its product strategy was also a factor, with the work being done on hydrogen fuel cells and a collaboration with BMW earning particular merit.

Innovative products like the Fuel Cell Sedan helped

Toyota become 2014’s most valuable automotive brand.

The automotive brand seeing the highest value increase compared to 2013 is Audi. This reflects continued strong global sales, novel marketing activities and a consistent set of values. Land Rover meanwhile appears in the top 100 for the first time, thanks to an improved range and better customer satisfaction ratings.

Interbrand Best Automotive Brands 2014
Overall Ranking	Brand	Value (US$ Million)	Change
8	Toyota	42,392	+20%
10	Mercedes-Benz	34,338	+8%
11	BMW	34,214	+7%
20	Honda	21,673	+17%
31	Volkswagen	13,716	+23%
39	Ford	10,876	+18%
40	Hyundai	10,409	+16%
45	Audi	9,831	+27%
56	Nissan	7,623	+23%
60	Porsche	7,171	+11%
74	Kia	5,396	+15%
82	Chevrolet	5,036	+10%
87	Harley-Davidson	4,772	+13%
91	Land Rover	4,473	New entry

Overall, Apple tops the Interbrand chart with a worth of US$118,863 million, ahead of runner-up Google.

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Mercedes-Benz G-Class Edition 35 unveiled

October 14, 2014, 11:54 am

≫ Next: Fiat 500X Opening Edition confirmed

≪ Previous: Toyota is 2014’s most valuable auto brand

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Sales of the Geländewagen began way back in 1979. So, to celebrate the model’s 35th birthday this year, Mercedes-Benz has done the obvious thing and created a special edition.

Called the G-Class Edition 35, it’s available with Obsidian Black, Palladium Silver or Designo Mystic White paintwork. Regardless of the main colour choice, the roof, door mirror caps, bumpers and wheel arches all come finished in Obsidian Black.

A set of black 18” five-spoke alloy wheels, the AMG Sport package and some extra chrome trim complete the exterior look.

On the inside, the specification includes multi-contour front seats with built-in climate control, a microfibre headlining, a leather-covered dashboard and an AMG steering wheel. Buyers can opt for either plain black or two-tone black / porcelain leather upholstery.

In Germany, prices start at €101,031 (including VAT) for the diesel-powered G 350 BlueTEC Edition 35. Alternatively the G 500 Edition 35, which boasts a V8 petrol engine, costs from €112,812.

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Fiat 500X Opening Edition confirmed

October 14, 2014, 3:57 pm

≫ Next: Kawasaki launches the Vulcan S cruiser

≪ Previous: Mercedes-Benz G-Class Edition 35 unveiled

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Car manufacturers often resort to cobbling together special editions to eke out a few more sales from models that are facing extinction. Nowadays though, the tactic is increasingly being applied to brand new products too. Mercedes-Benz’s Edition 1 variants are a very good example of the practice.

Fiat is following in a similar vein because, to help create some extra buzz around the launch of its 500X crossover, the Opening Edition has been announced.

In fact, two distinct versions are being offered. The first is based on the 500X’s ‘urban’ theme and features Art Grey paintwork and 18” alloy wheels.

Also included in the specification are rear privacy glass, the Comfort Pack, automatic climate control and the Safety Pack. That last item consists of lane departure and blind spot warning systems, plus a rear reversing camera.

Power comes from either a 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS) 1.6 litre MultiJet II diesel or a 138 bhp (102 kW / 140 PS) 1.4 litre MultiAir II turbocharged petrol engine. Both options send their output to the front wheels.

Alternatively, the second Opening Edition takes the ‘adventurous’ iteration of the 500X as a starting point. Finished in tri-coat Amore Red, it comes with part-time all-wheel drive and a 138 bhp (102 kW / 140 PS) 2.0 litre MultiJet II diesel motor that’s mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Additional equipment comprises red and black two-tone leather upholstery, satellite navigation, automatic lights and wipers, power folding door mirrors and steering wheel gear shifters.

Altogether, just 2,000 examples of the 500X Opening Edition are going to be built. Availability is being restricted to France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Switzerland, so anybody in the UK who fancied one faces disappointment.

Starting prices in Italy range from €21,900 to €30,650.

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Kawasaki launches the Vulcan S cruiser

October 15, 2014, 3:25 pm

≫ Next: Infiniti is set to enter the 2015 BTCC

≪ Previous: Fiat 500X Opening Edition confirmed

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Kawasaki’s 2015 motorcycle range is set to include an all-new mid-size cruiser. Called the Vulcan S, its European debut will take place at next month’s EICMA show in Milan.

Built around a steel frame, a long 1,575 mm (5’ 2”) wheelbase and a low seat height of just 705 mm (27.8”) give typical custom bike proportions.

Power is provided by a liquid-cooled 649 cc parallel-twin engine. Essentially a detuned version of the motor that’s already used in the ER6 and Versys 650, it develops 60 bhp (45 kW / 61 PS) with 63 Nm (46 lb/ft) of peak torque. A 46 bhp (35 kW / 47 PS) version is also being produced for restricted licence holders.

The Vulcan S is available in a choice of Ebony, Royal Purple or Crystal White paintwork. Kawasaki has confirmed a UK price tag of £5,899 (plus government charges), which includes the optional anti-lock brakes.

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Infiniti is set to enter the 2015 BTCC

October 16, 2014, 1:20 pm

≫ Next: Yamaha YZF-R3 revealed

≪ Previous: Kawasaki launches the Vulcan S cruiser

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Next year’s British Touring Car Championship is going to include yet another manufacturer. Infiniti has announced a two-car team, which will use the rear-wheel drive Q50 saloon.

The entry is in collaboration with Support Our Paras, the official charity of The Parachute Regiment. That’s not just a branding exercise though, as injured troops are helping to prepare the NGTC-specification cars.

Furthermore any profits generated by the BTCC squad, known as ‘Infiniti Support Our Paras Racing Team’, are due to be donated to Support Our Paras.

Richard Hawken and Derek Palmer Jnr have been named by Infiniti as its drivers for 2015.

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Yamaha YZF-R3 revealed

October 17, 2014, 11:30 am

≫ Next: Five Chevrolet concepts for SEMA 2014

≪ Previous: Infiniti is set to enter the 2015 BTCC

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Yamaha’s new YZF-R3 small-capacity sports bike is set to be a direct competitor for the Kawasaki Ninja 300.

Power comes from a liquid-cooled, twin-cylinder 321 cc fuel-injected engine that produces 41.4 bhp (30.9 kW / 42.0 PS) with 29.6 Nm (21.8 lb/ft) of peak torque. In what is surely a deliberate marketing ploy, those figures just beat the Kawasaki’s 38.8 bhp (29.0 kW / 39.4 PS) and 27.0 Nm (19.9 lb/ft).

The YZF-R3 is built around a tubular steel frame which is encased in a full fairing. Wet weight with all fluids on board is only 169 kg (373 lbs), making it 5 kg (11 lbs) lighter than the Ninja 300.

Standard equipment includes an anti-lock braking system that features a single disc set-up for each of the 17” ten-spoke wheels.

Yamaha has yet to announce the YZF-R3’s price tag, but expect it to be close to the £5,199 that Kawasaki currently charges for a Ninja 300.

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