Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint launched

December 20, 2014, 3:02 pm

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In 1954, the original Giulietta Sprint was launched. Alfa Romeo has realised (seemingly just in time) that this year marks the model’s 60th anniversary, so to celebrate a Sprint trim grade has been added to the current Giulietta range.

The new arrival is based on the existing Progression variant. Its extra equipment includes a set of  17” five-hole alloy wheels, extended side skirts, a rear diffuser, black window surrounds and a anthracite finish for the front fog light bezels, door mirror caps, door handles and front grille.

The interior meanwhile gains cloth and Alcantara upholstery, red stitching, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, carbon fibre-effect trim, sports instruments, a darkened headlining and bespoke floor mats.

A major specification highlight is the engine. Although it’s the familiar 1.4 litre MultiAir turbocharged petrol unit, the version in the Giulietta Sprint uniquely produces 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS) with 250 Nm (184 lb/ft) of peak torque.

That output, which is delivered via a six-speed manual transmission, is enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 8.2 seconds and a 130 mph (210 km/h) top speed.  Efficiency isn’t too bad either, as the combined cycle figures for fuel economy and CO2 emissions are 49.6 mpg (5.7 l/100km) and 131 g/km respectively.

Sales of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint are due to begin in early 2015. In the UK, on-the-road prices start from £20,490.

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Shelby bids the old Mustang farewell

December 21, 2014, 2:03 pm

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Shelby American is seeing off the 2007-2014 model year Ford Mustang in style by introducing a Signature Edition Super Snake upgrade for its GT500.

Engine modifications include the addition of a 3.6 Kenne Bell supercharger and the Shelby Performance cooling kit. As a result the Super Snake’s V8 develops a staggering 850 bhp (633 kW / 861 PS), so perhaps wisely the rear brakes have been improved too.

A set of forged Weld wheels, body stripes, numerous Signature Edition badges and unique floor mats are also part of the specification. For those wanting an even more imposing look, a wide body conversion is a cost option.

Just 50 of the post-title Signature Edition Super Snake packages are being offered. With a price tag of $44,995 each in the United States (excluding the base car), they’re available for both the coupe and convertible. Shelby American is only accepting orders until the end of January 2015, though.

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2015 Formula One entry list announced

December 29, 2014, 11:54 am

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Lewis Hamilton has elected to stick with his ‘44’ race number for 2015 rather than use the ‘1’ traditionally worn by the title holder’s car. Sebastian Vettel meanwhile will revert to ‘5’ next season.

The 2015 Formula One World Championship entry list, which has been published by the FIA, also shows that eleven teams are currently due to compete. However, the chances of them all actually participating are very slim indeed.

In particular Manor F1 - which competed as Marussia in 2014 - is unlikely to appear on the grid. After all, many of its assets were recently auctioned to help pay off creditors. The prospects for Caterham F1 seem brighter though, with administrators remaining hopeful that a buyer will be found soon.

Honda is returning to Formula One as McLaren’s engine supplier.

2015 FIA Formula One World Championship Entry List
Race No.	Driver	Team	Engine
44	Lewis Hamilton (GB)	Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team	Mercedes
6	Nico Rosberg (Deu)	Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team	Mercedes
3	Daniel Ricciardo (Aus)	Infiniti Red Bull Racing	Renault
26	Daniil Kvyat (Rus)	Infiniti Red Bull Racing	Renault
19	Felipe Massa (Bra)	Williams Martini Racing	Mercedes
77	Valtteri Bottas (Fin)	Williams Martini Racing	Mercedes
5	Sebastian Vettel (Deu)	Scuderia Ferrari	Ferrari
7	Kimi Räikkönen (Fin)	Scuderia Ferrari	Ferrari
14	Fernando Alonso (Esp)	McLaren Honda	Honda
22	Jenson Button (GB)	McLaren Honda	Honda
27	Nico Hülkenberg (Deu)	Sahara Force India F1 Team	Mercedes
11	Sergio Pérez Mendoza (Mex)	Sahara Force India F1 Team	Mercedes
33	Max Verstappen (Ndl)	Scuderia Toro Rosso	Renault
55	Carlos Sainz, Jr. (Esp)	Scuderia Toro Rosso	Renault
8	Romain Grosjean (Fra)	Lotus F1 Team	Renault
13	Pastor Maldonado (Ven)	Lotus F1 Team	Renault
9	Marcus Ericsson (Swe)	Sauber F1 Team	Ferrari
12	Luiz Felipe de Oliveira Nasr (Bra)	Sauber F1 Team	Ferrari
TBC	TBC	Manor F1 Team	Ferrari
TBC	TBC	Manor F1 Team	Ferrari
TBC	TBC	CF1 Caterham F1 Team	Renault
TBC	TBC	CF1 Caterham F1 Team	Renault

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2016 Cadillac CTS-V first view

December 30, 2014, 4:00 am

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Not only is the CTS-V a new flagship for Cadillac’s midsize model, it’s also the most powerful vehicle ever produced by the brand.

Those endorsements come courtesy of an all-aluminium supercharged 6.2 litre (376 cu. in.) V8 engine that produces 640 bhp (477 kW / 648 PS) with 855 Nm (630 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Connected to a Hydra-Matic 8L90 eight-speed automatic transmission, it can propel the rear-wheel drive CTS-V from rest to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 3.7 seconds. A top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h) is equally impressive.

Naturally the chassis has been upgraded to cope with such prodigious performance. To start with, the bodyshell is 25% stiffer versus a regular CTS thanks to extra bracing, a strengthened bulkhead and the addition of an aluminium shear panel at the front.

Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping, a Performance Traction Management system and a Brembo braking set-up are also part of the specification. Furthermore, the suspension geometry and electric power steering have been recalibrated, while 19” lightweight forged aluminium wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres should provide a decent level of grip.

Distinguishing the CTS-V are a front splitter, larger intakes beneath the main grille, redesigned bumpers, widened wheel arches a carbon fibre bonnet that incorporates a prominent extractor vent.

Completing the equipment list is a Performance Data Recorder which allows driving experiences to be recorded in HD video with data overlays. Although the results are likely to be crushingly dull, they can be viewed on the dashboard’s colour touchscreen or downloaded.

The 2016 Cadillac CTS-V is due to be launched in late summer next year.

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Images © General Motors.

Tesla Roadster 3.0 package announced

December 30, 2014, 1:55 pm

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Although production ended in 2012, Tesla is still offering updates for its electric-powered Roadster. The latest retrofit development suite, which takes the two-seater up to 3.0 specification, has the sole aim of improving the car’s range.

To help achieve that objective the original 53 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is replaced. Its successor uses a new cell technology that now allows around 70 kWh of electricity to be stored, crucially without any increase in physical dimensions.

Tesla’s engineers have also focussed on reducing rolling resistance. Consequently, the 3.0 upgrade features a tweaked residual braking system as well as revised tyres and wheel bearings.

The final area to receive attention is the aerodynamics. Thanks to a kit of parts for the Roadster’s body, the drag coefficient usefully drops from 0.36 to 0.31.

So what’s the effect of those modifications? Well, Tesla anticipates a real-world driving distance of over 400 miles (644 kilometres) between charges. That figure represents a significant improvement of around 50%.

A price for the Roadster 3.0 package has yet to be revealed, but the plan is to start fulfilling customer orders in spring 2015.

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2016 Škoda Superb teased

December 30, 2014, 3:39 pm

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Ahead of its scheduled unveiling in Prague next February, the all-new Škoda Superb has been revealed in sketch form.

Quite how accurately these renderings depict the showroom model remains to be seen of course. However, they do indicate a dramatic change in design direction which has been clearly influenced by the brand’s VisionC concept.

It’s certainly a positive move. Compared to the current Superb, the styling appears sharper, the surfacing is tauter and the proportions are much more elegant.

Market launches for the third-generation Škoda Superb are due to begin across mainland Europe in mid 2015. UK deliveries will then commence a few months later.

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Top 10: New cars due in 2015

January 1, 2015, 3:14 pm

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Picking the most significant new cars coming in 2015 is not an easy task, simply because of the huge volume and variety of planned launches. Nevertheless, here are ten candidates that should make an impact on their respective market sectors.

1. Land Rover Discovery Sport
Launch: January

Nominally a replacement for the Freelander, the Discovery Sport gets a different name, an extra row of seats and sleeker styling. The new Land Rover is going to be a bit more expensive than its predecessor, though. In the UK, where four trim grades are being offered, prices range from £32,395 to £42,995.

2. Ford Mondeo
Launch: spring

The all-new fifth-generation Mondeo was first unveiled as the Fusion at the 2012 North American International Auto Show, so its European launch is effectively three years late.

Available in hatchback, estate and saloon guises, Ford’s D-segment contender will feature a broad choice of powertrains including a 1.0 litre three-cylinder petrol unit, a plug-in hybrid and optional all-wheel drive.

3. Smart fortwo and forfour
Launch: spring

Arguably, Smart has struggled to earn the cachet enjoyed by some other small cars such as the Mini Hatch and Fiat 500. The latest fortwo might not be able to reverse that situation, but at least five-speed manual and six-speed automated dual-clutch transmissions replace the troublesome old semi-automatic gearbox.

Expanding the range’s appeal is the five-door forfour, which also serves as the basis for the current Renault Twingo.

4. Jaguar XE
Launch: May

Forget the X-Type; the XE is - at last - a Jaguar that looks capable of taking on the likes of the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac ATS and Mercedes-Benz C-Class in the ultra-competitive compact executive class. Prices start at £26,995, and industry experts are predicting strong residual values.

5. Volvo XC90
Launch: May

Having been on sale for twelve years, Volvo’s original XC90 was definitely due a successor. The new version’s interior has enough seats for seven people and it’s intended to be both elegantly simple and luxurious.

Costing from £45,785, the XC90 can be specified with either a diesel engine or a more efficient plug-in petrol-electric hybrid system.

6. Honda HR-V
Launch: summer

Small SUVs are likely to be the next big thing, attracting customers away from their superminis and compact hatchbacks. Honda’s HR-V, essentially a rebadged Vezel, is a relative latecomer to this burgeoning niche but it does promise class-leading cabin space.

7. Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé
Launch: summer

Just one look at the GLE Coupé is enough to confirm that Mercedes-Benz’s product planners clearly wanted something to steal sales from the BMW X6. Initially the line-up is going to consist of three variants, all of which boast all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission.

8. Mazda MX-5
Launch: summer

Radically changed styling, broader proportions and less weight define the fourth MX-5. The engine selection is set to comprise 1.5 and 2.0 litre normally-aspirated petrol units, but it seems that only the former will be imported into Europe.

9. Toyota Mirai
Launch: September

Potentially, the Mirai could be the car that makes people realise that using a load of lithium-ion laptop batteries as a replacement for fossil fuels is neither sustainable nor particularly green.

Equipped with an innovative hydrogen fuel cell, it’s expected to achieve a range of 300 miles (480 kilometres) between gas refills while emitting nothing except water vapour.

To begin with European sales volumes are anticipated to be no more than 100 units per annum, spread between Denmark, Germany and the UK. Such modest ambition is understandable given the Mirai’s price - expected to be around £52,000 - and a sparse hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.

10. Infiniti Q30
Launch: autumn

An extension to Nissan’s UK plant in Sunderland is being constructed especially for the Q30, which debuted as a concept at 2013’s Frankfurt International Motor Show. This prospective rival for the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class will be the first Infiniti ever built in Europe.


So what about the numerous other models that are scheduled to arrive at UK dealers during 2015?

Among the more notable are the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi Q7, BMW 2 Series Convertible, Fiat 500X, Ford Mustang (in right-hand drive form), Ford S-Max, Honda Jazz, Hyundai i20 Coupe, Jeep Renegade, Mazda CX-3, Škoda Superb, Suzuki Celerio and Vauxhall Viva.

Fast compact estates - the next big thing?

January 3, 2015, 2:48 pm

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At the moment, the only available high performance compact wagon is the Ford Focus ST. With a turbocharged 2.0 litre EcoBoost petrol engine developing 246 bhp (184 kW / 250 PS) and 360 Nm (265 lb/ft) of torque on overboost, it can hit 154 mph (247 km/h) and do the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in 6.7 seconds.

But this tiny market segment is about to grow, as 2015 will see the arrival of the Volkswagen Golf R Estate and the Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake.

The Volkswagen Golf R Estate...

...and the Mercedes-Benz CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake.

Scroll down for more images.

Like the hatchback version, the Golf R Estate features a turbocharged 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol motor. It produces 295 bhp (220 kW / 300 PS) with 380 Nm (280 lb/ft) and sends that output via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission to a 4Motion all-wheel drive system.

As a result, this particularly practical Volkswagen completes the 0-62 mph benchmark in just 5.1 seconds before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

At first glance the CLA 45 AMG, which is based on the recently announced CLA-Class Shooting Brake, has a drivetrain specification that’s very similar to the R-spec Golf’s.

However, AMG engineers have managed to extract a very impressive 355 bhp (265 kW / 360 PS) and 450 Nm (322 lb/ft) from their 1,991 cc engine. Furthermore, the CLA boasts a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox as well as the pretty much essential all-wheel drive.

Such a set-up is sufficient for a 0-62 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The power advantage isn’t reflected in the top speed figure though, as this is another car that’s electronically limited to 155 mph.

So clearly both newcomers are significantly quicker than the Ford. They’re also going to be a lot more expensive, too.

While prices for the Focus ST start at £23,295, expect the Golf R Estate to cost at least £33,000. Buying a CLA 45 AMG Shooting Brake will probably involve an outlay in excess of £43,000.

Given those amounts, all three models realistically appeal to separate customer groups, and sales volumes for the Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz should be very modest indeed.

Nevertheless, it’ll be intriguing to see whether other manufacturers decide that this niche is worth exploiting. How about a Renault Mégane Renaultsport 265 Sport Tourer or a Vauxhall Astra VXR Sports Tourer, for example?

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Infiniti Q60 Concept first view

January 5, 2015, 11:03 am

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In advance of a public debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit later this month, Infiniti has released the first image of its Q60 Concept.

The 2+2 coupé’s exterior design is defined by a low roofline combined with a broad stance. Details include a set of 21” wheels, some bold surfacing and the now traditional ‘Infiniti kink’ in the C-pillars.

Although an interior photo has yet to be published, the Q60 Concept’s cabin is said to feature hand-stitched leather and carbon fibre trim.

A production version of the Q60 is expected in due course. Whether or not Infiniti decides to offer it in the UK remains to be seen, however.

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Another Volkswagen Amarok limited edition

January 6, 2015, 2:37 pm

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UK customers must be keen on special versions of the Amarok pick-up, because Volkswagen has begun 2015 by introducing another one here. This latest variant is called the Ultimate and production is being restricted to 500 units. A similar model was launched in Germany last June, so that name might sound familiar.

On the outside, it gains LED daytime running lights, some chrome strips for the grille, power-folding heated door mirrors, unique door decals, rear privacy glass and darkened taillight clusters. There’s a choice of either Deep Black or Reflex Silver paintwork, and the look is completed by a set of 19” ‘Aragonit’ five-spoke alloy wheels.

Heated front seats, Alcantara upholstery and a leather-trimmed steering wheel are all part of the interior’s standard specification. Furthermore satellite navigation, Bluetooth and a rear reversing camera come fitted too.

In this country Volkswagen intends to offer just one engine for the Amarok Ultimate, a 2.0 litre BiTDI turbo diesel that produces 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS).

Prices start at £29,555 with a six-speed manual gearbox and selectable 4Motion all-wheel drive. Alternatively, buyers can opt for an eight-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive combination that costs from £30,970. Both amounts exclude VAT.

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2016 Lexus GS F announced

January 7, 2015, 5:58 am

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Lexus is continuing to grow its line-up of ‘F’ performance models. The latest addition, which is set to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit later this month, is the mid-size GS F saloon.

Power comes from a normally-aspirated 5.0 litre V8 engine that’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Interestingly, it can switch between the Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles, depending on whether greater brawn or efficiency is required.

Even without the aid of forced induction, output is rated at 467 bhp (348 kW / 473 PS) with 527 Nm (388 lb/ft) of peak torque. Although performance figures (and pricing) have yet to be released, the GS F’s potential rivals easily better those figures.

For example, the supercharged 5.0 litre V8 in the Jaguar XFR develops 502 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS) and 625 Nm (461 lb/ft), while the turbocharged 4.4 litre V8 used by the BMW M5 produces 552 bhp (412 kW / 560 PS) and 680 Nm (501 lb/ft).

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Detroit Electric SP:01 specs confirmed

January 7, 2015, 3:53 pm

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Detroit Electric says its long-awaited SP:01, which is due to enter production early this year, will be the world’s fastest electric-powered two-seat sports car.

Built around a Lotus-derived bonded aluminium chassis, the SP:01 features carbon fibre bodywork and a mid-mounted electric motor.

The Pure variant, which comes with 201 bhp (150 kW / 204 PS) and a single-speed automatic transmission, can accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.6 seconds before going on to a top speed of 106 mph (170 km/h).

Alternatively, the SP:01 Performance model boasts 281 bhp (210 kW / 286 PS) plus a five-speed manual ‘mode selector’ transmission. Consequently, it records 3.9 seconds and 155 mph (250 km/h) for those two aforementioned benchmarks.

Both versions get their energy from a 37 kWh battery pack. Recharging times have yet to be revealed, but Detroit Electric claims that range is a useful 179 miles (288 kilometres) according to the New European Driving Cycle standard.

Just revealed for the first time are details about the interior. Buyers are going to have a choice of numerous single- and two-tone leather and Alcantara upholsteries for the cabin. A particularly prominent component is the dashboard-mounted 8.4” touchscreen, which runs an Android operating system. As well as replacing most of the secondary dials and switches, it also controls the heating and ventilation, media, navigation and vehicle status systems.

Eventually the SP:01 is going to be retailed in Europe, North America and Asia. Pricing remains a mystery for now, though.

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Top 10: UK car sales 2014

January 8, 2015, 8:33 am

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2,476,435 new cars were registered in the UK during 2014. That figure, just published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, represents a 9.3% increase compared to 2013.

The growth seen throughout 2014 was spread fairly evenly between the SMMT’s Private and combined Fleet / Business categories. It’s worth noting that the former is perhaps a more reliable indicator of true retail sales, because the latter can be used to hide extra dealer demonstrators, pre-registrations and other number-massaging tricks that manufacturers sometimes resort to.

Total UK Car Registrations 2014 - By Category
Category	2014	2013	Change	Change %
Private	1,179,499	1,074,622	104,877	9.8%
Fleet	1,178,416	1,084,279	94,137	8.7%
Business	118,520	105,836	12,684	12.0%
Total	2,476,435	2,264,737	211,698	9.3%
Fleet + Business	1,296,936	1,190,115	106,821	9.0%

Despite the rise in overall volumes, the 2014 and 2013 manufacturers’ league tables are identical. Ford and Vauxhall continue to dominate with a collective market share of almost 25%.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2014 - By Manufacturer
Position 2014	Manufacturer	Registrations	Market Share	Position 2013
1	Ford	326,643	13.2%	1
2	Vauxhall	269,177	10.9%	2
3	Volkswagen	214,828	8.7%	3
4	Audi	158,987	6.4%	4
5	BMW	148,878	6.0%	5
6	Nissan	138,338	5.6%	6
7	Mercedes-Benz	124,419	5.0%	7
8	Peugeot	103,566	4.2%	8
9	Toyota	94,012	3.8%	9
10	Citroën	83,397	3.4%	10

Unsurprisingly, the Ford Fiesta remains the country’s most common choice for new car buyers. Actually, the first six positions in the models’ ranking are no different to 2013’s listing.

The Ford Fiesta is still the UK's most popular car.

However, some changes towards the bottom have seen the BMW 3 Series, BMW 1 Series and Peugeot 208 all drop out of the top ten. BMW’s decision to apply the 2 Series and 4 Series nameplates to its 1 Series and 3 Series coupé and convertible replacements meant that two of those relegations weren’t unexpected, though.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2014 - By Model
Position	Model	Registrations	Market Share
1	Ford Fiesta	131,254	5.3%
2	Ford Focus	85,140	3.4%
3	Vauxhall Corsa	81,783	3.3%
4	Volkswagen Golf	73,880	3.0%
5	Vauxhall Astra	59,689	2.4%
6	Nissan Qashqai	49,909	2.0%
7	Volkswagen Polo	48,004	1.9%
8	Audi A3	45,581	1.8%
9	Fiat 500	44,005	1.8%
10	Nissan Juke	39,263	1.6%

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Top 10: UK car sales 2014 - winners and losers

January 8, 2015, 3:28 pm

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Stats published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders have shown that total new car registrations in 2014 were up by 9.3% versus 2013. As always though, the overall market conceals some highly variable individual manufacturer performances.

For some makes the year just gone was very positive. The ten that achieved the largest year-on-year volume percentage increases were:

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2014 - Winners
Manufacturer	2014	2013	Change	Change %
MG	2,326	504	1,822	361.5%
Maserati	1,194	319	875	274.3%
SsangYong	1,542	662	880	132.9%
Infiniti	746	386	360	93.3%
Jeep	3,909	2,229	1,680	75.4%
Mitsubishi	15,805	9,044	6,761	74.8%
Renault	66,334	46,173	20,161	43.7%
Dacia	23,862	17,146	6,716	39.2%
Lexus	11,572	9,014	2,558	28.4%
Volvo	41,066	32,666	8,400	25.7%
Total Market	2,476,435	2,264,737	211,698	9.3%

The launch of the 3 supermini helped MG sales to more than quadruple, while Maserati’s strong growth was due to the smaller Ghibli saloon. Interestingly, only one of those new arrivals can be ordered with a diesel engine, and it’s not the MG…

MG remains a relative minnow in the UK, despite

recording the greatest registrations rise for 2014.

Another notable result was posted by Renault, which seems to be recovering from its product and dealer cull of a few years ago. Sibling brand Dacia continued to gain additional customers, too.

By contrast, here are the ten marques that experienced the biggest drops:

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2014 - Losers
Manufacturer	2014	2013	Change	Change %
Perodua	29	206	-177	-85.9%
Chevrolet	2,774	11,676	-8,902	-76.2%
Proton	11	20	-9	-45.0%
Chrysler	1,982	2,515	-533	-21.2%
Smart	4,342	5,314	-972	-18.3%
Lotus	235	256	-21	-8.2%
Aston Martin	864	926	-62	-6.7%
Honda	53,544	55,660	-2,116	-3.8%
Alfa Romeo	5,523	5,687	-164	-2.9%
Peugeot	103,566	105,435	-1,869	-1.8%

At the end of 2013, General Motors announced that most of Chevrolet’s models would be withdrawn from Europe, so the decline seen last year was expected. Much more of a surprise was the significant reduction in Honda registrations.

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Top 10: UK car sales 2014
Top 10: UK car sales 2013 - winners and losers

Defender editions signal the end of production

January 9, 2015, 5:33 pm

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Assembly of the venerable Defender is due to end at Land Rover’s Solihull plant in December 2015. So, to commemorate the imminent passing of a vehicle that can trace its lineage back to 1947, three Celebration Series editions have been launched.

Heritage Limited Edition

The Heritage Limited Edition is based on the entry-level trim grade. Recognisable by its Grasmere Green paint, body-coloured steel wheels, white roof and silver bumpers, this model also comes with Almond cloth upholstery and a retro grille.

Recalling the registration number of the first pre-production Land Rover is a ‘HUE 166’ graphic that appears on the bodywork and on tags affixed to the front seats.

400 examples have been allocated to the UK and deliveries are expected to begin in August.

Defender Heritage Limited Edition	UK on the road price
90 Hard Top	£27,800
90 Station Wagon	£30,900
110 Station Wagon	£34,200

Adventure Limited Edition

Land Rover is set to offer 600 units of the Adventure Limited Edition in the UK. Taking the existing XS version as a starting point, the extra specification includes unique decals, a raised air intake, underbody protection, a roof rack and a rear ladder.

LED projector headlights and split-spoke alloy wheels shod with Goodyear MT/R tyres are fitted too. G4 Challenge-inspired Phoenix Orange is one of three colour scheme options, while inside the seats are covered with Windsor leather.

In 90 Station Wagon guise, the Adventure’s 2.2 litre diesel engine is upgraded from the usual 120 bhp (90 kW / 122 PS) to 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS), and peak torque similarly rises from 360 Nm (265 lb/ft) to 400 Nm (295 lb/ft). That particular enhancement probably explains why both versions cost the same.

Defender Adventure Limited Edition	UK on the road price
90 Station Wagon	£43,495
110 Station Wagon	£43,495

Autobiography Limited Edition

Completing the trio is the luxurious (and very expensive) Autobiography Limited Edition, which arrives in April. As just 80 are going to be available in the UK it should be a rare sight.

Another development of the XS, the Autobiography gains a set of gloss black ‘Sawtooth’ alloy wheels, privacy glass, LED projector headlights, front underbody protection and the modified 148 bhp engine.

Regardless of the main paint shade chosen, the tailgate, front grille, bonnet and upper portion of the body are all finished in Santorini Black for a distinctive two-tone look. Deep-pile carpet floor mats plus a full leather package that even extends to the headlining are the main additional interior features.

Defender Autobiography Limited Edition	UK on the road price
90 Station Wagon	£61,845

The Defender story might not be over entirely though, because limited production could continue overseas to supply non-European Union markets. India would have to be a likely location for such a venture, given the firm’s current ownership.

It’s also worth noting that there’s definitely going to be a successor to the Defender, but Land Rover has yet to announce any details.

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2015 GMC Canyon Nightfall Edition

January 10, 2015, 1:56 pm

≫ Next: Seat Leon ST Cupra 280 announced

≪ Previous: Defender editions signal the end of production

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Onyx Black paintwork, a unique grille and some extra equipment identify the new GMC Canyon Nightfall Edition. Based on the existing mid-range SLE crew cab model, it’ll be available with a choice of either rear- or four-wheel drive.

The additional specification includes a set of 18” multi-spoke alloy wheels, sill steps, a rear-vision camera and a spray-in bedliner.

Inside, this special Canyon features automatic climate control, remote keyless entry and start, aluminium trim, SiriusXM satellite radio and the OnStar telematics system.

Deliveries of the Canyon Nightfall Edition are due to begin during the second quarter of 2015. Pricing has yet to be announced.

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Image © General Motors.

Seat Leon ST Cupra 280 announced

January 11, 2015, 12:47 pm

≫ Next: 2016 Volvo S60 Cross Country revealed

≪ Previous: 2015 GMC Canyon Nightfall Edition

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A year after Seat launched high-performance Cupra versions of its Leon hatchback, the same treatment is being applied to the ST model. In terms of the fast compact estate hierarchy - which is small but expanding - the new arrival will slot in between the Ford Focus ST and Volkswagen Golf R Estate.

Power is provided by a 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 276 bhp (206 kW / 280 PS) and 350 Nm (258 lb/ft) of torque to the front wheels. In some markets the ST Cupra is also going to be available with 261 bhp (195 kW / 265 PS), however only the more powerful variant is coming to the UK.

The 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint is completed in 6.1 seconds with a manual gearbox, but that time falls imperceptibly to 6.0 seconds if the alternative DSG dual-clutch transmission is specified. Top speed in both cases is an electronically-limited 155 mph (250 km/h).

To help keep things manageable the ST Cupra features a front-axle differential lock as well as Dynamic Chassis Control, which adjusts the damper settings via three selectable driving modes. Progressive power steering is fitted too and the car’s specially-calibrated electronic stability program can be partially or fully deactivated.

Standard equipment includes LED headlights and rear light clusters, titanium-coloured 19” alloy wheels, a tailgate spoiler and aluminium doorsill kick plates. The interior gains front sports seats, Alcantara upholstery and an infotainment system that’s controlled through a 5.8” colour touchscreen.

A price for the 2015 Seat Leon ST Cupra 280 has yet to be confirmed.

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2016 Volvo S60 Cross Country revealed

January 12, 2015, 5:05 am

≫ Next: 2015 NACTOY winners

≪ Previous: Seat Leon ST Cupra 280 announced

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Maybe Volvo is about to create a new sub-niche with its new S60 Cross Country.

Essentially a four-door saloon version of the recently-launched V60 Cross Country crossover, it gains a 65 mm (2.5”) higher ride height, black cladding around the wheel arches and some additional underbody protection.

Two variants are going to be offered in Europe. However, the first is a rather pointless fake because it features a four-cylinder diesel engine and front-wheel drive.

The alternative does have all-wheel drive though, as well as a larger 2.5 litre five-cylinder diesel. At least this one’s all-terrain ability should live up to those looks.

Volvo will be unveiling the S60 Cross Country at this month’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit. UK deliveries are due to begin in July.

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2015 NACTOY winners

January 12, 2015, 7:25 am

≫ Next: Top 10: Irish car sales 2014

≪ Previous: 2016 Volvo S60 Cross Country revealed

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The winners of the 2015 North American Car of the Year and the North American Truck / Utility of the Year awards have been declared today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Ford’s F-150 full-size pick-up emerged as a clear winner in the truck category. A jury of fifty-seven motoring journalists from across Canada and the United States gave it 297 points, while the runner-up Chevrolet Colorado and third-place Lincoln MKC earned 205 and 68 respectively.

2015 North American Truck / Utility of the Year:

The Ford F-150.

Volkswagen secured the car prize for a second time. On this occasion the Golf was victorious, after receiving 256 points from the voting panel. 204 marks meant the Ford Mustang ended up in second position, and third spot went to the Hyundai Genesis which scored 110.

2015 North American Car of the Year:

The Volkswagen Golf.

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Top 10: Irish car sales 2014

January 14, 2015, 7:35 am

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≪ Previous: 2015 NACTOY winners

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2014 turned out to be a year of significant recovery for the new car market in Ireland. Figures released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry show that registrations totalled 96,344, a rise of just under 30% compared to 2013.

About one third of the 21,977 extra units came courtesy of a strong July. As a result, the second plate-change month now accounts for nearly 20% of annual volume.

Irish Car Registrations 2014 - By Fuel Type
Fuel	2014	2013	+/-	% +/-
Diesel	70,811	53,947	+16,864	+31.3%
Petrol	24,252	19,787	+4,465	+22.6%
Alternative	1,281	633	+648	+102.4%
Total	96,344	74,367	+21,977	+29.6%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

Virtually all brands recorded registration increases for the year, and the first seven places in the manufacturers’ league remained unchanged. A notable returnee to the top ten was Renault which, after a disastrous 2013, achieved substantial growth thanks mainly to its Captur and Clio.

Once again, Volkswagen topped Ireland's new car registration

league table and the Golf was the country's most popular model.

Outside of the top ten, Dacia posted an outstanding performance. 2,695 registrations were more than double the previous year’s number, with the Duster and Sandero responsible for most of that upsurge.

Top 10: Irish Car Registrations 2014 - By Manufacturer
Position	Manufacturer	2014	2013	+/-	% +/-
1	Volkswagen	11,670	9,508	+2,162	+22.7%
2	Toyota	10,275	7,662	+2,613	+34.1%
3	Ford	9,481	7,621	+1,860	+24.4%
4	Hyundai	8,160	5,892	+2,268	+38.5%
5	Nissan	7,032	5,317	+1,715	+32.3%
6	Opel	6,356	4,914	+1,442	+29.3%
7	Škoda	6,296	4,903	+1,393	+28.4%
8	Renault	4,881	3,321	+1,560	+47.0%
9	Audi	4,272	3,701	+571	+15.4%
10	Kia	4,236	3,350	+886	+26.4%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

Again the Golf, Qashqai, Focus and Fiesta occupied the first four spots in the models’ list. Toyota’s Auris hatchback dropped from fifth to ninth position, but its place was taken by the Corolla saloon.

Missing from 2014’s top ten was the Opel Astra. Yearly registrations of 1,768 were practically unchanged versus 2013, so the upshot was relegation to fifteenth place. Nevertheless, additional Insignia, Corsa and Mokka deliveries kept Opel’s market share at 6.6%.

Top 10: Irish Car Registrations 2014 - By Model
Position	Model	2014	2013	+/-	% +/-
1	Volkswagen Golf	4,574	3,605	+969	+26.9%
2	Nissan Qashqai	3,806	2,944	+862	+29.3%
3	Ford Focus	3,793	2,871	+922	+32.1%
4	Ford Fiesta	3,119	2,416	+703	+29.1%
5	Toyota Corolla	3,007	1,092	+1,915	+175.4%
6	Škoda Octavia	2,830	2,002	+828	+41.4%
7	Hyundai ix35	2,635	1,472	+1,163	+79.0%
8	Toyota Yaris	2,051	1,679	+372	+22.2%
9	Toyota Auris	2,041	2,142	-101	-4.7%
10	Volkswagen Passat	2,224	2,007	+217	+10.8%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

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