2015 Formula One calendar revised

December 4, 2014, 7:35 am

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In a surprise move, next season will see the return of the Korean Grand Prix. That decision, confirmed at yesterday’s World Motor Sport Council meeting in Doha, takes the number of events on the 2015 Formula One schedule up to 21.

The only other change to the calendar concerns the Chinese and Bahraini rounds, which have swapped places.

The Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez circuit, which in

2015 will host the first Mexican Grand Prix since 1992.

2015 FIA Formula One World Championship - Calendar
Round	Date	Event
1	15 March	Grand Prix of Australia (Melbourne)
2	29 March	Grand Prix of Malaysia (Sepang)
3	12 April	Grand Prix of China (Shanghai)
4	19 April	Grand Prix of Bahrain (Sakhir)
5	03 May	Grand Prix of Korea (Yeongam)
6	10 May	Grand Prix of Spain (Barcelona)
7	24 May	Grand Prix of Monaco (Monte Carlo)
8	07 June	Grand Prix of Canada (Montreal)
9	21 June	Grand Prix of Austria (Spielberg)
10	05 July	Grand Prix of Great Britain (Silverstone)
11	19 July	Grand Prix of Germany (Nürburg)
12	26 July	Grand Prix of Hungary (Budapest)
13	23 August	Grand Prix of Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)
14	06 September	Grand Prix of Italy (Monza)
15	20 September	Grand Prix of Singapore (Marina Bay)
16	27 September	Grand Prix of Japan (Suzuka)
17	11 October	Grand Prix of Russia (Sochi)
18	25 October	Grand Prix of USA (Austin)
19	01 November	Grand Prix of Mexico (Mexico City)
20	15 November	Grand Prix of Brazil (São Paulo)
21	29 November	Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi (Yas Marina)

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James Bond gets a unique Aston Martin

December 4, 2014, 3:33 pm

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Despite its name, the Aston Martin DB10 isn’t a DB9 replacement. In fact the new model has been specially created for Spectre, the latest James Bond movie.

Just ten examples of the DB10 are going to be built by Aston Martin, although how many of them will survive the rigours of stunt driving remains to be seen.

The film’s title is an acronym for Special Executive for Counter-intelligence, Terrorism, Revenge and Extortion. That’s the organisation led by super-villain Ernst Blofeld which first appeared in Ian Fleming’s 1961 novel Thunderball.

Once again Daniel Craig is playing 007, while other cast members include Christoph Waltz, Ralph Fiennes and Sherlock’s Andrew Scott. Spectre’s director is Sam Mendes and production is scheduled to begin next week.

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2015 FIA WEC calendar confirmed

December 5, 2014, 3:15 pm

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Like this year, 2015’s FIA World Endurance Championship is set to consist of eight rounds. However, there will be a couple of significant changes.

The first concerns the summer break. In 2014 there was a lengthy three-month gap in the schedule after Le Mans, but fortunately that won’t be repeated next season thanks to the inaugural 6 Hours of Nürburgring in August. This new event is due to use the circuit’s Grand Prix track, rather than the more challenging Nordschleife.

The other major revision sees the 6 Hours of São Paulo disappearing from the calendar. As a result, Bahrain once again becomes the finale venue.

2015 FIA World Endurance Championship
Date	Country	Race
12 April	Great Britain	6 Hours of Silverstone
02 May	Belgium	6 Heures de Spa-Francorchamps
13-14 June	France	24 Heures du Mans
30 August	Germany	6 Hours of Nürburgring
19 September	USA	6 Hours of CoTA - Lone Star Le Mans
11 October	Japan	6 Hours of Fuji
01 November	China	6 Hours of Shanghai
21 November	Bahrain	6 Hours of Bahrain

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M Performance Parts for the 2015 BMW X6

December 6, 2014, 11:00 am

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BMW has launched a selection of M Performance Parts for its latest X6 Sports Activity Coupé.

Those owners who want to give their X6 a more purposeful appearance are certainly well served. Bi-colour 21” lightweight alloy wheels are available in four styles, along with a black radiator grille, carbon fibre door mirror caps and a stainless steel exhaust silencer. Furthermore, the Aerodynamics Package comprises a carbon fibre front splitter, rear diffuser and tailgate spoiler.

Complementing the exterior upgrades are numerous accessories for the cabin. These include stainless steel pedal covers, an Alcantara and carbon fibre steering wheel and LED-illuminated doorsill kick plates.

The M Performance Parts programme isn’t just about looks, though. A sport brake set-up, for instance, consists of larger 19” discs that are matched with blue-painted calipers.

Then there are the Power Kits, which give a couple of X6 variants some added pace without harming their fuel consumption.

When fitted to the petrol xDrive35i, output rises from 301 bhp (225 kW / 306 PS) to 321 bhp (240 kW / 326 PS) while peak torque increases by 50 Nm (37 lb/ft) to 450 Nm (332 lb/ft). As a result, it completes the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint half a second quicker.

Likewise, a Power Kit-equipped diesel xDrive30d produces 273 bhp (204 kW / 277 PS) with 585 Nm (431 lb/ft). Those figures represent gains of 18 bhp (14 kW / 19 PS) and 25 Nm (18 lb/ft) compared to the regular model, enough to knock 0.2 seconds off the benchmark acceleration time.

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2015 Suzuki Celerio UK specs and prices

December 8, 2014, 3:48 pm

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With deliveries due to begin next February, Suzuki has confirmed prices and specifications for its new Celerio five-door city car.

Buyers are going to have a choice of two trim grades. The entry-level SZ3 is well equipped as Bluetooth, a DAB and CD audio system, air conditioning, remote central locking, electric front windows, alloy wheels and six airbags all come as standard. Costing from £7,999, it’s set to be one of the cheapest cars available.

Alternatively, an additional £1,000 will secure the SZ4 variant, but such a hefty premium doesn’t look like great value. That’s because the extra kit list merely consists of an upgrade from two to four speakers, electrically-adjustable door mirrors with body-colour housings, front fog lights, electric rear windows and some chrome trim for the front grille.

Powering both versions is a 1.0 litre three-cylinder petrol engine which is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. Developing 67 bhp (50 kW / 68 PS) with 90 Nm (66 lb/ft) of peak torque, it’ll achieve 65.7mpg (4.3 l/100km) on the combined cycle while emitting 99 g/km of carbon dioxide.

Prospective customers might want to consider two key innovations being introduced in summer 2015. The first is the Dualjet technology suite, which sees those efficiency figures improve to 78.4 mpg (3.6 l/100km) and 84 g/km. Second is the optional Auto Gear Shift device that automates the Celerio’s manual transmission.

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Production Ferrari Sergio revealed

December 10, 2014, 4:59 am

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Only six examples of the Sergio roadster will be produced by Ferrari, and all have already found a buyer. As that name suggests, this limited edition is intended to honour Sergio Pininfarina, son of the founder of the eponymous Italian carozzeria which has designed so many road-going Ferrari models.

Whether it’s a particularly fitting tribute is debateable, though. Trying to force various 1960s and 1970s styling cues onto what is essentially a modified 458 Spider hasn’t yielded a very cohesive result.

The most successful aspect is the nose, thanks to its two-tone bonnet and a dark horizontal element that links the two low-set headlight clusters. Things certainly get more radical along the flanks, where a bold black angular insert visually splits the Sergio’s front and rear sections.

And that segregation is fitting, because the back end is a mishmash of concave surfacing, oddly-shaped light surrounds and a massive diffuser. Unfortunately, every component looks like it belongs on a different car.

At least performance won’t be lacking. With a 4,497 cc V8 engine that develops 596 bhp (445 kW / 605 PS), the Ferrari Sergio can accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3 seconds.

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2015 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé unveiled

December 12, 2014, 10:59 am

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The GLE Coupé is the first new model launched by Mercedes-Benz that adopts the brand’s revised product nomenclature. ‘GL’ means it’s an SUV, ‘E’ denotes a member of the E-Class family and, in this case at least, ‘Coupé’ signifies a low fastback roofline. Put simply, the latest addition to the line-up is a direct rival for BMW’s X6.

Initially three different versions are going to be available. All come as standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive, the Dynamic Select driving mode system and a 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission.

The range-topping GLE 450 AMG marks the debut of the AMG Sport trim grade. Although not intended to be a fully-fledged AMG variant, it does feature air suspension, variable damping, 21” lightweight alloy wheels, unique bumpers and front sports seats. To help give a sporty feel, 60% of the upgraded engine’s torque goes to the rear wheels instead of the usual 50%.

Model	GLE 350 d	GLE 400	GLE 450 AMG
Fuel	Diesel	Petrol	Petrol
Engine	2,987 cc V6 turbo	2,996 cc V6 biturbo	2,996 V6 biturbo
Power	254 bhp (190 kW / 258 PS)	328 bhp (245 kW / 333 PS)	362 bhp (270 kW / 367 PS)
Torque	620 Nm (457 lb/ft)	480 Nm (354 lb/ft)	520 Nm (383 lb/ft)

UK prices for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé have yet to be announced.

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2015 Hyundai i20 Coupe revealed

December 12, 2014, 3:43 pm

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While the recently-launched five-door Hyundai i20 is a plain-looking thing, the same criticism can’t be levelled at the new Coupe version.

With its thick C-pillar and lower roofline, the three-door benefits from a much sleeker profile. Distinctive surfacing around the rear wheel arches, restyled bumpers and a prominent tailgate spoiler also add to the more purposeful appearance.

Initially four engines are going to be available. Following the current trend for smaller capacities and fewer cylinders, the line-up is due to be augmented by a 1.0 litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol unit later next year.

Engine	1.2 litre	1.4 litre	1.1 litre	1.4 litre
Fuel	Petrol	Petrol	Diesel	Diesel
Power	83 bhp (62 kW / 84 PS)	99 bhp (74 kW / 100 PS)	74 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS)	89 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS)
Torque	122 Nm (90 lb/ft)	134 Nm (99 lb/ft)	180 Nm (133 lb/ft)	240 Nm (177 lb/ft)
Gearbox	5-speed manual	6-speed manual (4-speed auto optional)	6-speed manual	6-speed manual

Hyundai has yet to confirm UK pricing for the i20 Coupe.

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Return of the Norton Dominator

December 13, 2014, 6:29 am

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Norton has announced plans to reintroduce the famous Dominator nameplate to its range.

Marking the new model’s arrival will be a Dominator SS limited edition. Based on the stripped-down Domiracer café racer, the fully road-legal SS has a January 2015 unveiling scheduled. Exclusivity is pretty much guaranteed, as Norton is restricting its UK market allocation to just 50 examples.

Prices and specifications for both the Dominator and Dominator SS have yet to be confirmed.

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2015 Mini John Cooper Works Hatch revealed

December 13, 2014, 2:56 pm

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With a prodigious 227 bhp (170 kW / 231 PS), the new Mini John Cooper Works Hatch boasts more power than saloon car icons such as the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Cosworth, Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth and original BMW M3.

That output, which is provided by a 1,998 cc turbocharged four-cylinder engine, allows for a top speed of 152 mph (246 km/h). Connected to a six-speed manual gearbox, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint takes just 6.3 seconds, but order the six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission instead and the time drops to 6.1 seconds.

And the automatic alternative is more efficient, too. Its 49.5 mpg (5.7 l/100km) and carbon dioxide emissions of 133 g/km on the combined cycle decisively eclipse the 42.2 mpg (6.7 l/100km) and 155 g/km of the stick-shift version.

To match that extra performance potential, the John Cooper Works model gains upgraded suspension, recalibrated Servotronic electromechanical power steering and 17” lightweight wheels. Also fitted are Brembo brakes with four-piston calipers, redesigned bumpers and door sills, a larger rear spoiler and LED headlights. The cabin meanwhile features front bucket seats and stainless steel pedals.

Available options include a head-up display that shows rev lights and a gear indicator, bigger 18” wheels, the Dynamic Damper Control system and a unique Chili Red finish for the roof and door mirror caps.

UK prices for the John Cooper Works Hatch start from £22,865. Sales are due to begin in April 2015, following a public debut at next month’s North American International Auto Show.

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Hyundai launches the sporty i30 Turbo

December 14, 2014, 10:05 am

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In a move that should broaden the appeal of its i30, Hyundai has created a new Turbo trim grade. As that name suggests, power comes from a turbocharged 1.6 litre petrol engine which produces a fairly generous 183 bhp (137 kW / 186 PS) with 265 Nm (195 lb/ft) of peak torque.

As a result, the i30 Turbo can accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 8.0 seconds before going on to a top speed of 136 mph (218 km/h). Respectable enough performance then, but perhaps Hyundai has been too cautious? After all, the 201 bhp (150 kW / 204 PS) unit already used by sister brand Kia in the closely-related (and quicker) Cee’d GT could have been chosen instead.

Unique bumpers (with traditional red inserts), a set of 18” alloy wheels and twin exhausts all identify the i30 Turbo as a hot(ish) hatch. Beneath the skin its specification includes recalibrated suspension and more direct steering, while the interior features front sports seats and red highlights for the upholstery.

The introduction of the i30 Turbo coincides with some other across-the-range enhancements. For instance, all models get a redesigned front grille and an updated collection of alloy wheels, but the powertrain changes are the most significant.

Replacing the previous 1.4 litre ‘Gamma’ petrol engine is a ‘Kappa’ version. Although output remains at 99 bhp (74 kW / 100 PS), average fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions of 50.4 mpg (5.6 l/100km) and 129 g/km respectively are better than before thanks in part to a weight reduction.

Another major update sees the old six-speed conventional automatic gearbox ditched in favour of a more efficient seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It’ll be optionally available with the 1.6 litre diesel and normally-aspirated petrol motors.

Prices for the 2015 Hyundai i30 line-up have yet to be announced.

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2015 Jeep Renegade UK prices announced

December 14, 2014, 3:29 pm

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Jeep has confirmed that prices for its new Renegade are going to start from £16,995 in the UK. The small SUV, which arrives at dealers in February 2015, will be offered in a range of five trim grades.

Bluetooth, a DAB radio, tyre pressure monitoring and alloy wheels are standard on all versions. Extra equipment on the Longitude models includes cruise control, roof rails and a six-speaker audio system, while the Limited variants gain leather upholstery, heating for the front seats and steering wheel, rear parking sensors, the Forward Collision Mitigation system and larger 18” wheels.

For more serious off-road use, the Trailhawk boasts Active Drive Low all-wheel drive plus skid plates for the fuel tank and front suspension. Completing the line-up are the Opening Editions. These feature unique upholstery, a choice of Omaha Orange or Alpine White paintwork and a contrasting black roof, but production is being limited to just 200 units.

The choice of powertrains is equally broad, as six petrol and diesel engines can be variously mated to five-speed manual, six-speed manual, six-speed dual dry clutch (DDCT) and nine-speed automatic transmissions. Most combinations come with front-wheel drive, but two types of all-wheel drive are available too.

2015 Jeep Renegade - UK on the road prices
Trim grade	Engine and transmission	Price
Sport	1.6 eTorq Evo 110 PS	£16,995
Sport	1.6 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 120 PS E5+	£18,695
Longitude	1.6 eTorq Evo 110 PS	£18,595
Longitude	1.4 Turbo MultiAir 2 140 PS	£19,795
Longitude	1.4 Turbo MultiAir 2 140 PS DDCT	£21,195
Longitude	1.6 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 120 PS E5+	£20,295
Longitude	2.0 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 140 PS 4WD	£22,795
Limited	1.6 eTorq Evo 110 PS	£21,195
Limited	1.4 Turbo MultiAir 2 140 PS	£22,395
Limited	1.4 Turbo MultiAir 2 140 PS DDCT	£23,795
Limited	1.4 Turbo MultiAir 2 170 PS Active Drive Low 4WD Auto	£26,595
Limited	1.6 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 120 PS E5+	£22,895
Limited	2.0 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 140 PS 4WD	£25,395
Limited	2.0 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 170 PS 4WD	£27,195
Opening Edition	1.4 Turbo MultiAir 2 140 PS	£22,695
Opening Edition	1.6 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 120 PS E5+	£23,195
Opening Edition	2.0 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 140 PS 4WD	£25,695
Trailhawk	2.0 MultiJet II Turbodiesel 170 PS Active Drive Low 4WD Auto	£27,995

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The Citroën C4 gets a facelift for 2015

December 15, 2014, 3:42 pm

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With the C4 Cactus and C4 Picasso getting so much attention recently, the ‘normal’ C4 has become rather overlooked. Nevertheless, the five-door hatchback still exists and Citroën is giving it some updates for 2015.

Cosmetic bodywork changes are limited to redesigned headlights that now incorporate LED daytime running lights, new taillight clusters and some extra chrome trim for the bumpers. On the inside, the C4 gains a revised selection of seat fabrics and a centrally-mounted 7” touchscreen for the car’s infotainment and navigation functions.

Joining the engine line-up is a 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS) version of the all-aluminium, three-cylinder, turbocharged 1.2 litre PureTech petrol unit that achieves 60.1 mpg (4.7 l/100km) on the combined cycle. Its carbon dioxide emissions meanwhile are a respectable 110 g/km.

However, for the time being at least, the diesel alternatives are probably going to remain more popular. Buyers will be able to choose from a couple of 1.6 litre BlueHDi offerings, both of which incorporate an AdBlue-based selective catalytic reduction device that converts most of the nitrogen oxides produced into harmless nitrogen and water vapour. Outputs are either 98 bhp (73 kW / 99 PS) or 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS).

The 2015 Citroën C4 is due to arrive at UK dealers next spring.

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Aston Martin Works marks its 60th birthday

December 16, 2014, 8:05 am

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Aston Martin Works, the bespoke and historic arm of the company that’s still located in Newport Pagnell, will celebrate its diamond jubilee in 2015.

To commemorate the occasion six limited edition Works 60th Anniversary models are coming. All based on the Vanquish, each draws inspiration from one of the decades that have passed since 1955.

The first, which has just been unveiled, takes a Vanquish Volante and adds Anniversary Yellow side strakes and alloy wheels, heavy weave carbon fibre cabin trim, white and black two-tone seat centre panels, and yellow stitching for the upholstery.

Works 60th Anniversary logos appear on the unique doorsill kick plates, while a finishing touch is provided by the surrounds for the centre console’s main rotary controls. These have been crafted from metal that was once part of a piston in a period Aston Martin engine.

Prospective purchasers are being advised to contact Aston Martin Works directly to discuss prices.

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2015 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Business Edition

December 16, 2014, 10:01 am

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User-chooser company car drivers are the obvious target market for the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Business Edition. Based on the existing Distinctive trim grade, the new variant gains £2,000-worth of extra specification but it actually costs slightly less.

Standard equipment includes a Uconnect infotainment system that incorporates a 6.5” colour touchscreen, Bluetooth, a DAB radio, an SD card reader and satellite navigation with 3D mapping. Also fitted are cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring, the Visibility Pack and electric lumbar adjustment for the front seats.

Four engines are being offered, two of which come with the six-speed TCT twin dual-clutch transmission.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Business Edition UK on the road prices, P11D values and 2014/15 benefit-in-kind tax rates
Engine	Transmission	OTR	P11D	BIK
1.6 JTDM-2 diesel 105 PS	6-speed manual	£18,990	£18,935	16%
2.0 JTDM-2 diesel 150 PS	6-speed manual	£20,290	£20,235	18%
1.4 TB MultiAir petrol 170 PS	6-speed TCT	£20,810	£20,755	18%
2.0 JTDM-2 II diesel 175 PS	6-speed TCT	£22,450	£22,395	18%

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta Business Edition is available now.

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Updated 2015 Hyundai i40 unveiled

December 16, 2014, 3:38 pm

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A bolder hexagonal grille is the revised Hyundai i40’s most distinguishing feature. The rest of the facelift is rather subtle, but it does encompass new front and rear light clusters, some different wheels and a redesigned front bumper that now incorporates LED fog lights.

The D-segment contender also gains several additional technologies, including an automatic high beam function, satellite navigation upgrades and a speed limit identification system which reads roadside signs and displays an alert on the instrument panel. Also fitted for the first time is Advanced Traction Cornering Control, a device that acts like a limited-slip differential to provide better grip and traction during cornering.

With no petrol engines available, power is provided by an improved 1.7 litre diesel unit that can be specified with either 114 bhp (85 kW / 115 PS) or 139 bhp (104 kW / 141 PS). Both outputs come with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, but Hyundai has just introduced a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission option for the more powerful version.

Prices for the 2015 i40, which continues to be offered in Saloon and Tourer guises, have yet to be announced.

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December 17, 2014, 4:50 am

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A new entry-level model is joining the BMW 2 Series Coupé range. Called the 218i, it’s powered by a three-cylinder petrol engine that’s already used in the 2 Series Active Tourer and Mini Cooper Hatch.

Despite having a meagre 1.5 litre displacement, output is 134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS) thanks to a turbocharger and variable control mechanisms for the camshafts and valves. Peak torque meanwhile is 220 Nm (162 lb/ft).

This longitudinally-mounted compact motor is usefully fitted with a balancer shaft to reduce vibration levels. When connected to a six-speed manual gearbox, it allows the rear-wheel drive 218i Coupé to accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in a quick enough 8.8 seconds before going on to a top speed of 131 mph (212 km/h).

Economy is good too, as up to 55.3 mpg (5.1 l/100km) is achieved on the combined cycle depending on tyre size. Carbon dioxide emissions are as little as 118 g/km.

On sale from March 2015, the launch of the 218i coincides with some other changes for the 2 Series Coupé line-up. These include the introduction of a 220d with the xDrive all-wheel drive system, which will feature an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission as standard.

UK availability and prices have yet to be confirmed by BMW.

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Audi reveals the all-new 2016 Q7

December 17, 2014, 3:47 pm

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Since its launch in 2005, the original Audi Q7 has done a good job of reinforcing negative SUV stereotypes. Being bloated, not especially handsome and often driven by conceited characters hiding behind aftermarket dark-tint glass did not promote an agreeable image.

However, things could change with the just-unveiled second-generation model. For starters, the new Q7 is considerably lighter thanks to the extensive use of aluminium in its bodyshell. Consequently, the 3.0 TDI version now has a kerb weight of 1,995 kg (4,398 lbs), a reduction of 325 kg (716 lbs).

That diet is also reflected in the styling, which looks noticeably less bulky than before. Indeed, at 5.05 m (16’ 7”) long and 1.97 m (6’ 6”) wide this Q7 is marginally shorter and narrower than its predecessor, yet cabin space is claimed to be better. Both five- and seven-seat configurations are going to be offered.

When sales begin in summer 2015 buyers will be able to choose between the 328 bhp (245 kW / 333 PS) 3.0 litre TFSI petrol and 268 bhp (200 kW / 272 PS) 3.0 litre TDI diesel V6 engines. Both options come with an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

Judging by respective 0-62 mph (100 km/h) times of 6.1 and 6.3 seconds their performance is very similar. In terms of efficiency, the TDI achieves up to 49.5 mpg (5.7 l/100km) on the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 149 g/km. Unsurprisingly, those stats comfortably eclipse the TFSI’s 36.6 mpg (7.7 l/100km) and 179 g/km.

More interesting is the e-tron quattro plug-in diesel hybrid powertrain. Due to join the range at a later date, it delivers a combined system output of 368 bhp (275 kW / 373 PS) with 700 Nm (516 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Average fuel consumption is an impressive 166.1 mpg (1.7 l/100km), the CO2 figure is expected to be below 50 g/km and the e-tron’s range in pure electric mode should be around 35 miles (56 kilometres). But the obvious question is to what extent will these official ratings be replicated in everyday use?

Several technologies are appearing for the first time on a Q7. They include four-wheel steering, adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assistant, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, infrared night vision and LED headlights.

The 2016 Audi Q7 is due to debut at next month’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Whether or not it continues to attract a particular type of customer remains to be seen.

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2015 European COTY nominees

December 18, 2014, 3:39 pm

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Following an initial vote, the original thirty-four 2015 European Car of the Year candidates have been narrowed down to just seven nominees.

These models now face a second ballot in late February that will decide the overall winner. The result is then due to be announced the following month at the Geneva Motor Show.

The seven finalists are:

• BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
• Citroën C4 Cactus
• Ford Mondeo
• Mercedes-Benz C-Class
• Nissan Qashqai
• Renault Twingo
• Volkswagen Passat

Apart from the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, each of the cars on the shortlist represents a different market segment. Such diversity should make the jury’s job somewhat harder.

Nevertheless, two of the strongest contenders arguably have to be the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and Citroën C4 Cactus. That’s because both - in different ways - represent a bold departure for their respective brands.

The front-wheel drive BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is

one of seven 2015 European Car of the Year nominees.

Related posts:
2015 NACTOY shortlists
2015 European COTY candidates

Aventador LP 700-4 Pirelli Edition launched

December 19, 2014, 3:37 pm

≫ Next: Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint launched

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Lamborghini has unveiled the Aventador LP 700-4 Pirelli Edition. As that name suggests, it has been created to recognise the fact that every road-going Lamborghini car has left the factory equipped with Pirelli tyres.

Offered in both Coupé and Roadster guises, two unique two-tone liveries differentiate the Pirelli Edition models.

Opt for Bianco Isis, Giallo Spica, Grigio Ater, Grigio Liqueo, Nero Aldebaran or Rosso Mars gloss paintwork and the roof, pillars, engine surround, air intakes and door mirror caps all come with a matte black finish.

Alternatively, those upper body elements gain a gloss black effect if the Bianco Canopus, Grigio Adamas, Grigio Titans or Nero Nemesis matte shades are chosen instead as the main colour.

Completing the look is a pair of narrow stripes incorporating the Pirelli logo that run along the top of the car.

The Aventador LP 700-4 Pirelli Edition is available to order now, although prices have yet to be announced. Deliveries are expected to begin next summer.

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