2016 Buick Verano first view

April 22, 2015, 9:58 am

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Buick has unveiled an all-new second-generation Verano at the Auto Shanghai motor show. A mid-size saloon, it’s set to join the rather similar Excelle GT in the brand’s Chinese range.

The Verano’s styling, which has been inspired by the Riviera and Avenir concepts, features ‘double-sweep’ swage lines along the flanks and a very shallow rear screen angle.

The new 2016 Buick Verano...

...and the recently-launched Excelle GT.

For the Chinese market, where the Verano is going to be known as the Wei Lang, power will come from a 1.5 litre Ecotec turbocharged petrol engine.

Developing 166 bhp (124 kW / 168 PS) with 250 Nm (184 lb/ft) of peak torque, it’s mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Average fuel consumption from that combination is a claimed 46.3 mpg (6.1 l/100km), but performance figures haven’t been released yet.

A North American version of the latest Verano is expected to be announced soon.

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Images © General Motors.

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2016 Cadillac CT6 PHEV confirmed

April 22, 2015, 11:17 am

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Cadillac has announced that its upcoming CT6 flagship will be available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The rear-wheel drive system comprises a turbocharged 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine, two electric motors and an electric variable transmission. Total output is estimated to be 335 bhp (250 kW / 340 PS) with 586 Nm (432 lb/ft) of torque.

Also part of the specification is a 192-cell, 18.4 kWh, lithium-ion battery pack which is housed between the rear seats and the luggage compartment. Plug-in recharging times haven’t been disclosed, but it will be possible via either 120 V or 240 V sockets. The pure electric mode range remains a mystery for now, too.

Average fuel consumption is another important figure that has yet to be released. However, when compared to a regular CT6, Cadillac reckons the hybrid’s economy should be twice as good.

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Images © General Motors.

Phantom Limelight Collection revealed

April 24, 2015, 12:27 pm

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Rolls-Royce has launched another limited edition created by its Bespoke department. The Limelight Collection, which can be based on either the Phantom or Phantom Extended Wheelbase, “has been conceived for that select group of people who spend their lives in the public eye and on the world stage”.

Gala Blue paintwork, a hand-painted coachline and unique nine-spoke alloy wheels provide a sophisticated and elegant exterior look. However, the Limelight Collection’s key distinguishing features are in the rear cabin.

Designed according to the maxim of ‘Prepare, Relax, Arrive’, those in the rear sit on specially-made reclining seats that incorporate calf and foot rests. Within easy reach are custom-built rear-door panniers. Offered in Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s versions, these are intended to hold personal possessions such as watches, jewellery and fragrance bottles.

Buyers will have a choice of two interior colour schemes. The Dark option predominantly uses Navy Blue leather with a Seashell contrast, while the Light alternative reverses those shades. Both come with a mixture of Smoked Chestnut and Piano Seashell wooden veneer trim.

The Phantom Limelight Collection is available globally, but only 25 examples are going to be produced.

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The BMW K 1600 GTL gets customised

April 25, 2015, 11:53 am

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BMW has collaborated with a couple of Japanese motorcycle customisers to reimagine its K 1600 GTL. Such a huge touring bike may seem like a strange candidate for that kind of treatment, but the results – created under the project Ignite Straight Six banner – are dramatic.

Indeed, the only stipulations imposed by BMW were that the original frame and 1,649 cc six-cylinder engine should be retained. Otherwise it was a case of 'anything goes'.

Kenji Nagai of Ken’s Factory devised a stretched-out low-rider that uses aluminium for the headlight cowl, handlebars, single seat and bespoke front fork. Simply called the Ken's Factory Special, other distinctive features include a 20” disc rear wheel.

Perhaps slightly more recognisable as a K 1600 GTL is the Juggernaut, built by Keiji Kawakita of Hot-Dock Custom-Cycles. That's partly because it keeps the stock Duolever front suspension along with some other standard components. Nevertheless, aluminium tubes alongside the modified bodywork, a front 'beak' and a sinister paintjob all contribute to the unique transformation.

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2016 Mazda MX-5 UK specs and prices

April 26, 2015, 11:52 am

≫ Next: 2016 Corvette Z06 C7.R Edition launched

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Mazda has announced that buyers of the new fourth-generation MX-5 roadster will have nine different variants to choose from.

Naturally, equipment levels increase in line with prices. The entry-level SE trim grade’s standard specification isn’t too bad though, as it includes LED headlights, heated and electrically-adjustable door mirrors, 16” alloy wheels, manual air conditioning and remote central locking.

Opting for the SE-L instead would add some useful items such as a 7” colour touchscreen, Bluetooth, cruise control, a DAB radio and climate control.

Completing the range are the Sport models. Among their extra features are automatic lights and wipers, heated seats, leather upholstery, keyless entry and a Bose audio system.

Two engines are being offered, both of which are four-cylinder, normally-aspirated units that are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. There’s no automatic transmission alternative.

In 1.5 litre guise output is 129 bhp (96 kW / 131 PS), while the more powerful 2.0 litre version develops 157 bhp (117 kW / 160 PS). The latter also comes with larger 17” wheels, a limited-slip differential and (for the Sport only) an upgraded suspension set-up with Bilstein dampers.

2016 Mazda MX-5 - UK On The Road Prices
MX-5 1.5i SE	£18,495
MX-5 1.5i SE-L	£19,245
MX-5 1.5i SE-L Nav	£19,845
MX-5 1.5i Sport	£21,845
MX-5 1.5i Sport Nav	£22,445
MX-5 2.0i SE-L	£20,095
MX-5 2.0i SE-L Nav	£20,695
MX-5 2.0i Sport	£22,695
MX-5 2.0i Sport Nav	£23,295

With UK customer deliveries due to begin in the summer, the 2016 MX-5 is available to order now.

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2016 Corvette Z06 C7.R Edition launched

April 27, 2015, 9:03 am

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Chevrolet is adding the C7.R Edition to its 2016 Corvette line-up. The new model, which can be based on either the Z06 or Z06 Convertible, is inspired by the C7.R race car.

Corvette Racing Yellow Tintcoat paintwork provides an obvious visual link to the brand’s motorsport activities, but a more sombre black finish is available as an alternative. Completing the look are yellow brake calipers, some unique body graphics and black wheels with yellow pinstripes.

The black leather and suede microfibre interior features Competition Sport seats, carbon fibre trim pieces and Corvette Racing doorsill kick plates. Furthermore, a special plaque displays the car’s build number.

Also part of the C7.R Edition’s specification is the Z07 Performance Package. This comprises Brembo carbon-ceramic brake discs, Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tyres and additional aerodynamic components.

As per the regular Z06, power comes from a supercharged 6.2 litre V8 engine that develops 650 bhp (485 kW / 659 PS).

Production of the Corvette Z06 C7.R Edition is going to be limited to just 500 examples. Sales begin later this year.

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Images © General Motors.

Key stats for the Euro-spec Ford Mustang

April 28, 2015, 4:43 pm

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Ford has confirmed some performance and economy figures for the new Mustang, which will be available across Europe in Fastback and Convertible body styles.

The engine line-up comprises a turbocharged 2.3 litre four-cylinder EcoBoost unit and a normally-aspirated 5.0 litre V8 (the 3.7 litre V6 offered in North America won’t be coming here).

As expected, the former delivers better efficiency, while the latter is the quicker option. Both can be ordered with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

Engine	2.3 litre EcoBoost
Power	309 bhp (231 kW / 314 PS)
Torque	434 Nm (320 lb/ft)
Body style	Fastback		Convertible
Transmission	Man.	Auto.	Man.	Auto.
OTR price	£29,000	£30,505	£33,000	£34,505
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	5.8 secs	TBC	TBC	TBC
Combined cycle	35.3 mpg (8.0 l/100km)	28.5 mpg (9.9 l/100km)	34.5 mpg (8.2 l/100km)	28.3 mpg (10.0 l/100km)
CO2 emissions	179 g/km	228 g/km	184 g/km	229 g/km

Engine	5.0 litre V8
Power	413 bhp (308 kW / 418 PS)
Torque	524 Nm (386 lb/ft)
Body style	Fastback		Convertible
Transmission	Man.	Auto.	Man.	Auto.
OTR price	£33,005	£34,505	£37,005	£38,505
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	4.8 secs	TBC	TBC	TBC
Combined cycle	20.9 mpg (13.5 l/100km)	23.5 mpg (12.0 l/100km)	20.8 mpg (13.6 l/100km)	22.1 mpg (12.8 l/100km)
CO2 emissions	299 g/km	281 g/km	306 g/km	289 g/km

With the launch of the Mustang, Ford is clearly keen to combat any preconceptions that American cars are only fast in a straight line.

The front and rear independent suspension set-ups have been specially calibrated for European roads, for example, plus the bodyshell is claimed to be 28 per cent stiffer than the previous Mustang’s. Furthermore the Performance Pack, which features upgraded brakes and improved cooling, is going to be fitted as standard.

There’s also a choice of four driving modes that alter the throttle response, steering feel and electronic stability control system. As an indication of Ford’s ambition for the Mustang, these even include a ‘Track’ setting.

Owners who might want to try setting quarter-mile sprint times haven’t been neglected, though. That’s because manual V8 models can be equipped with launch control, as well as ‘Line Lock’ which applies just the front brakes to allow rear tyre warm-ups.

Deliveries of the 2016 Mustang to continental Europe are set to begin in July. Right-hand drive versions will then arrive in the UK from October onwards.

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2016 Chevrolet Impala Midnight Edition

April 29, 2015, 12:31 pm

≫ Next: Low-drag 2015 Audi R18 e-tron quattro revealed

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Chevrolet has announced a Midnight Edition package for its full-size Impala. Inspired by the Blackout concept that was seen at last year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas, deliveries are due to begin this summer.

As the name suggests, the only available colour scheme for both the interior and exterior is black. Also included in the specification are 19” alloy wheels with black accents, a subtle rear spoiler and sport pedals.

The Midnight Edition upgrade is being offered in conjunction with the existing LT and LTZ trim grades. In the United States, it’ll add between $995 and $1,595 to the Impala’s price tag.

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Images © General Motors.

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Low-drag 2015 Audi R18 e-tron quattro revealed

April 30, 2015, 8:34 am

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This weekend’s 6 Heures de Spa-Francorchamps will see the debut of the 2015 Audi R18 e-tron quattro in low-drag guise.

It features subtly revised bodywork that’s intended for high-speed tracks including Le Mans. Compared to the high-downforce version, changes include a redesigned nose section, different side pods and modified rear wing supports.

Furthermore, the car’s aerodynamic elements are mounted less steeply, suspension spring travel is reduced and the cooling system has been altered.

Audi drivers André Lotterer, Benoît Tréluyer and Marcel Fässler currently lead the FIA World Endurance Championship following their victory at this season’s inaugural race, the 6 Hours of Silverstone.

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Škoda trainees create the Funstar pick-up

April 30, 2015, 11:59 am

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A team of 23 trainees from the Škoda Auto Vocational School has designed and built a pick-up version of the latest Fabia supermini. Called Funstar, it's due to appear in public for the first time at May's Wörthersee GTI Treffen.

Described as “cheeky, fresh and surprising”, the concept wears a metallic white and grey colour scheme with bright green highlights. Also included in the specification are a set of 18” ‘Gemini’ alloy wheels borrowed from the Octavia vRS, front and rear LED lights, bonnet vents and a 1400-watt audio system.

Power is provided by an upgraded 120 bhp (90 kW / 122 PS) 1.2 litre petrol engine that's connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Although the Funstar's chances of entering production are extremely slim, Škoda does have a history of offering models in this segment. Remember the Felicia Pickup?

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Equipment updates for the 2016 Scion FR-S

May 1, 2015, 3:07 pm

≫ Next: Feuerwehr Mokka to debut at RETTmobil 2015

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Scion has announced that its FR-S is getting an enhanced specification for the 2016 model year.

A rear reversing camera, an upgraded audio system, voice recognition and a 7” touchscreen are all going to appear on the coupé's standard kit list. What's more, some new silver trim pieces are intended to spruce up the interior.

Prices are increasing though. With a six-speed manual gearbox the 2016 FR-S costs $25,305 in the United States, plus a $770 destination charge. Opting for a six-speed automatic transmission instead will add an extra $1,100 to the invoice.

Deliveries are due to begin in June.

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Feuerwehr Mokka to debut at RETTmobil 2015

May 3, 2015, 1:19 pm

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Opel Special Vehicles has developed a uniquely-modified Mokka for this year's RETTmobil emergency equipment trade show.

Designed for fire brigade use in the accident response role, the small SUV carries hydraulic spreaders and shears plus a first aid backpack.

Its extra specification also includes Sortimo modular storage components, a full array of LED warning lights and preparation for communications kit. Naturally, there's a high-visibility livery too.

Ensuring decent off-road capability is an all-wheel drive system. Power meanwhile comes from a 1.6 litre turbocharged diesel engine that produces 134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS).

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Images © General Motors.

2016 model year G-Class announced

May 5, 2015, 2:31 pm

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Mercedes-Benz is giving its aged Geländewagen yet another update.

Redesigned bumpers, body-coloured flared wheel arches and a refreshed instrument cluster identify the latest versions.

They also feature a tweaked suspension set-up that’s claimed to give better ride comfort and body control. The dampers and electronic stability program have been recalibrated, plus optimised anti-lock braking has shortened stopping distances.

While those developments are welcome, the most important enhancement is a revised engine line-up.

Significantly, the G 500 abandons its old 5.5 litre V8 in favour of a 4.0 litre V8 biturbo direct-injection unit which first appeared in the G 500 4x4² concept. The three other options haven’t been forgotten either, because they all now produce more power than before.

Model	Engine	Power	Increase
Mercedes-Benz G 350 d	3.0 litre V6 turbo diesel	241 bhp (180 kW / 245 PS)	+ 33 bhp (25 kW / 34 PS)
Mercedes-Benz G 500	4.0 litre V8 biturbo petrol	415 bhp (310 kW / 422 PS)	+ 33 bhp (25 kW / 34 PS)
Mercedes-AMG G 63	5.5 litre V8 biturbo petrol	563 bhp (420 kW / 571 PS)	+ 26 bhp (20 kW / 27 PS)
Mercedes-AMG G 65	6.0 litre V12 biturbo petrol	620 bhp (463 kW / 630 PS)	+ 17 bhp (13 kW / 18 PS)

Dealers will start accepting orders for the 2016 G-Class from the middle of this year. UK pricing and availability have still to be confirmed, but currently only the diesel and V8 AMG variants are offered here and that situation isn’t expected to change.

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The three-door Astra is heading to Australia

May 6, 2015, 3:51 pm

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≪ Previous: 2016 model year G-Class announced

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A recent attempt to establish Opel in Australia was a short-lived and unsuccessful experiment. Despite that setback, some the European brand’s cars are still going to be offered there, albeit wearing Holden badges instead.

The first such arrivals are the 2016 Holden Astra and Cascada, which have just been launched. Due to join them at a later date is the Insignia.

To avoid any overlap with the existing Chevrolet-sourced Cruze, only the sporty three-door Astra is being made available in Holden guise.

Buyers have a choice of three trim grades. The GTC and GTC Sport both come with a 1.6 litre turbocharged petrol engine that develops either 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) when paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, or 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) if a six-speed manual gearbox is ordered.

Standard equipment is generous, as both models feature front sports seats, automatic lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, satellite navigation and a DAB radio. Among the GTC Sport’s extra items are leather upholstery, heated front seats (with power adjustment for the driver’s), climate control, a body kit and larger 19” alloy wheels.

For the range-topping variant, the VXR nameplate has been borrowed from Vauxhall. And just like the Vauxhall version, the Holden Astra VXR is powered by a 2.0 litre turbocharged motor which produces 276 bhp (206 kW / 280 PS) with 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Also part of the VXR’s specification are the FlexRide driving mode selector, a recalibrated suspension set-up, more responsive electro-hydraulic power steering and upgraded brakes with Brembo front calipers. Visually, it’s distinguished by a set of 20” forged alloy wheels plus a bigger tailgate spoiler.

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Images © General Motors.

2016 Holden Cascada launched

May 6, 2015, 3:53 pm

≫ Next: Volkswagen builds a Golf Alltrack KdoW

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Holden has added the Cascada to its range. Like three-door Astra which has just been introduced in Australia, it’s essentially a rebadged Vauxhall / Opel model.

This four-seat convertible boasts a power-operated, triple-layered fabric roof that can be retracted at speeds of up to 30 mph (50 km/h). What’s more, heating for the front seats and steering wheel should help to maximise open-top driving time.

The Cascada is clearly a car with premium aspirations, because leather upholstery, cruise control, Bluetooth, satellite navigation and a DAB radio are all part of the standard specification too. A reversing camera plus front and rear parking sensors are also fitted, so low-speed manoeuvres won’t be too difficult (even with some fairly large roof-up blind-spots).

Marking the Holden Cascada’s arrival is a special Launch Edition. Just 50 examples will be built, and their additional equipment list includes power-operated and ventilated front seats, Nappa leather and 20” alloy wheels instead of the usual 18” items. Completing the package are bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, automatic levelling and high-beam assist.

There’s only one powertrain option, though. Both the regular Cascada and the Launch Edition feature a 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) 1.6 litre turbocharged petrol engine that’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

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Images © General Motors.

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Volkswagen builds a Golf Alltrack KdoW

May 7, 2015, 10:46 am

≫ Next: The Toyota RAV4 becomes a rally car

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For the RETTmobil 2015 emergency equipment trade show, Volkswagen has converted its Golf Alltrack into a fire brigade command car (which is Kommandowagen Feuerwehr in German, or KdoW for short).

As well as high-visibility markings, the extra specification list includes a roof-mounted LED light bar, additional warning lights set into the bottom of the tailgate, an accident data recorder and preparation for digital communications devices.

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The Toyota RAV4 becomes a rally car

May 8, 2015, 10:56 am

≫ Next: 600 horsepower Audi TT created for Wörthersee

≪ Previous: Volkswagen builds a Golf Alltrack KdoW

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A small SUV is perhaps an unlikely candidate for conversion to a rally car. However, that hasn’t stopped Toyota from preparing a RAV4 for the Rally America championship.

Driven by Ryan Millen with Christina Fate taking care of navigation, it’ll compete in the 2WD-Open Class.

While the RAV4’s 176 bhp (131 kW / 178 PS) 2.5 litre four-cylinder engine and transmission remain stock, the suspension set-up is upgraded and the interior has been stripped out. Of course, the rally version’s specification also includes mandatory safety items such as a full roll cage.

The plan is to enter the RAV4 in six Rally America West Series events, starting with the Idaho Rally in June.

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600 horsepower Audi TT created for Wörthersee

May 8, 2015, 3:42 pm

≫ Next: Revisions for the Citroën DS3 WRC 2015

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This month’s Wörthersee GTI Treffen will see the public debut of Audi’s TT clubsport turbo concept.

A prominent manually-adjustable rear wing, seven-spoke 20” wheels and widened arches provide a purposeful, track-inspired look. However, this car’s most significant innovation lies beneath its bonnet.

The engine, a 2.5 litre five-cylinder unit, has been equipped with two turbochargers. One is conventionally driven by exhaust gases, but the other is electrically powered.

For the latter, a dedicated lithium-ion battery and 48-volt sub-system are fitted. Its presence is intended to deliver an instantaneous throttle response right across the rev range by virtually eliminating turbo lag.

The result is 591 bhp (441 kW / 600 PS) with 650 Nm (479 lb/ft) of peak torque, which is sent to all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.

Combined with an unladen weight of 1,396 kg (3,078 lbs), the TT clubsport turbo is able to accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in only 3.6 seconds. Top speed meanwhile is 192 mph (310 km/h).

Carbon-ceramic brake discs, a coilover suspension set-up, torque vectoring and Matrix LED headlights are also part of the specification. On the inside, bucket seats, four-point harnesses and a titanium roll cage reinforce the race-car vibe.

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Revisions for the Citroën DS3 WRC 2015

May 9, 2015, 12:08 pm

≫ Next: Triumph launches two new Tiger 800 variants

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Following the new engine, rear suspension and tailgate spoiler that were introduced ahead of the 2015 season, Citroën has announced some further updates for its DS3 World Rally Championship contender.

These focus on the front end, which gains redesigned wings and a modified bumper. Both the aerodynamics and downforce levels are said to be improved as a result.

There’s also a refreshed livery. Out goes the old white, gold and red colour scheme in favour of a sophisticated-looking paintjob that’s predominantly grey and black. The ‘DS’ branding is noticeably more prominent, too.

To help identify the team’s three cars, each has a unique roof finish. Kris Meeke has chosen white, while Mads Østberg and Khalid Al Qassimi have gone for grey and red respectively.

The changes will be seen in public for the first time on this month’s Rally de Portugal.

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Triumph launches two new Tiger 800 variants

May 10, 2015, 9:10 am

≫ Next: 2016 Holden Insignia VXR first view

≪ Previous: Revisions for the Citroën DS3 WRC 2015

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Buying a Tiger 800 just got even more complicated. It was launched late last year with an already ample choice of four different versions, but now Triumph has added the XRT and XCA models to the line-up.

Based on the XRX and XCX respectively, both gain pannier rails, heated seats, heated handlebar grips and a pair of LED fog lights. They also feature a high-capacity alternator and a satellite navigation mounting kit.

Furthermore, the XRT comes with a tyre pressure monitoring system, an aluminium radiator guard, a CNC machined brake reservoir and an Intense Orange colour option.

Meanwhile the XCX, which will be uniquely available with Matt Khaki Green paintwork, boasts CNC machined footrests as well.

As per the rest of the Tiger 800 range, power is provided by a 94 bhp (70 kW / 95 PS) 800 cc three-cylinder engine.

Prices for the Tiger 800 XRT and XCA have yet to be revealed.

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