Peugeot updates its 2008 DKR rally car

September 25, 2015, 3:48 pm

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On its Dakar Rally debut earlier this year, the Peugeot 2008 DKR didn't perform brilliantly. In fact, none of the team's three cars managed to finish in the top ten, thanks to a combination of reliability problems and accidents.

However, a just-announced overhaul could mean Peugeot is going to be much more competitive in 2016's event.

Now known as the 2008 DKR16, the car sticks with its unusual rear-wheel drive layout. A mid-mounted 3.0 litre V6 twin-turbo diesel engine is also retained, but power is up by 10 bhp (7 kW / 10 PS) to 345 bhp (257 kW / 350 PS).

Improving the balance between both axles was identified as a key objective. To help achieve this, the weight distribution has been altered and, due to a redesigned bonnet and roof-mounted air intake, aerodynamic downforce is better managed.

A modified double-wishbone suspension set-up is claimed to enhance agility, plus the front and rear overhangs are shorter than before. Furthermore, new one-piece 17” magnesium wheels shod with lighter Michelin tyres are fitted to reduce unsprung weight.

Related post:
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2016 GMC Sierra Elevation Edition announced

September 26, 2015, 11:41 am

≫ Next: 2016 BMW C 650 GT and C 650 Sport revealed

≪ Previous: Peugeot updates its 2008 DKR rally car

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GMC has confirmed that the Elevation Edition will be part of its refreshed 2016 Sierra 1500 pick-up range.

Identifying elements include a set of black 20” wheels and some special badges. Furthermore, the bumpers, grill surround, mirror caps and door handles are all body-coloured.

The interior meanwhile gains some extra specification. A highlight is the upgraded touchscreen-controlled IntelliLink infotainment system which, as well as having OnStar 4G LTE and a Wi-Fi hotspot, boasts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.

Offered in double cab guise only, the Elevation Edition features a 285 bhp (212 kW / 289 PS) 4.3 litre EcoTec V6 engine as standard. If that output isn't enough, a 355 bhp (264 kW / 360 PS) 5.3 litre V8 can be ordered instead. Both powertrain options are available with either rear- or four-wheel drive.

Sales are due to begin early next year.

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Image © General Motors.

2016 BMW C 650 GT and C 650 Sport revealed

September 27, 2015, 11:30 am

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≪ Previous: 2016 GMC Sierra Elevation Edition announced

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Almost four years after they were first launched, BMW has updated its C 650 GT and C 650 Sport maxi scooters.

Redesigned bodywork for the Sport version is the most noticeable change. The GT hasn't been completely forgotten though, as its side panels and rear light unit have been subtly altered.

As before, power for both models comes from a 647 cc twin-cylinder engine that produces 59 bhp (44 kW / 60 PS). However, modifications include a new exhaust silencer, revised mapping and a more responsive continuously-variable transmission set-up.

Traction should be much improved, as automatic stability control now joins anti-lock brakes on the standard equipment list. Furthermore, better ride comfort is promised by recalibrated dampers.

UK availability and pricing have yet to be confirmed.

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2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty first view

September 28, 2015, 3:32 pm

≫ Next: 2016 NACTOY shortlists

≪ Previous: 2016 BMW C 650 GT and C 650 Sport revealed

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Thanks to aluminium-alloy bodywork and a high-strength steel chassis, Ford says the all-new 2017 F-Series Super Duty is up to 158 kg (350 lbs) lighter than its predecessor. Obviously, that kind of diet benefits both payload and towing capabilities.

When sales begin late next year, customers will have a choice of five trim grades offered in Regular Cab, SuperCab or Crew Cab configurations.

Buyer decisions won’t stop there, though. That’s because the engine line-up comprises 6.2 litre V8 gasoline and 6.7 litre V8 diesel units, with a 6.8 litre V10 gasoline motor augmenting the selection for chassis-cab variants.

In terms of available equipment, technology and gadgets seem to have been a primary focus.

As well as a touchscreen-controlled Sync 3 infotainment system, the list includes LED headlamps and taillights, 360° cameras, a high-mounted cargo box camera, adaptive cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring and a radar-based blind spot warning device that knows when a trailer is being towed.

Final specifications and prices for the 2017 F-Series Super Duty have yet to be announced.

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2016 NACTOY shortlists

October 1, 2015, 2:50 pm

≫ Next: Honda’s 2015 Tokyo Motor Show concept bikes

≪ Previous: 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty first view

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Jurors have decided which vehicles are going to be eligible for the 2016 North American Car of the Year and Truck / Utility of the Year awards.

Their next task is to vote on the two shortlists, in order to determine the three finalists in each category. Those results are due to be announced on the 8th of December.

A final ballot will then take place, ahead of the overall winners being named at January's 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

2016 North American Car of the Year shortlist:

• BMW 7 Series
• Cadillac CT6
• Chevrolet Camaro
• Chevrolet Malibu
• Chevrolet Volt
• Honda Civic
• Kia Optima
• Mazda MX-5 Miata
• Nissan Maxima
• Toyota Prius

Mazda's MX-5 Miata is included on the

2016 North American Car of the Year shortlist.

2016 North American Truck / Utility of the Year shortlist:

• Ford Edge
• Honda HR-V
• Honda Pilot
• Hyundai Tucson
• Jeep Renegade
• Kia Sorento
• Lexus RX
• Mazda CX-3
• Nissan Titan XD
• Tesla Model X
• Toyota Tacoma
• Volvo XC90

Predicting the victors is almost impossible given such a broad model mix. However, the Chevrolet Volt and Volvo XC90 are certainly among the strongest contenders in their respective classes.

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Honda’s 2015 Tokyo Motor Show concept bikes

October 2, 2015, 12:01 pm

≫ Next: Peugeot expands its Satelis 2 scooter range

≪ Previous: 2016 NACTOY shortlists

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Honda will be displaying seven motorcycle concepts at the Tokyo Motor Show, which opens to the public on the 30th of October.

Perhaps the most interesting is the Neowing three-wheeler. Full technical details have yet to be released, but its hybrid powertrain comprises electric motors and a horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine.

The distinctive front end features a unique linkage mechanism that’s claimed to offer the same cornering ability as a conventional two-wheel machine. Filtering would still be almost impossible, though.

While Honda describes the Light Weight Super Sports Concept as a ‘next-generation’ bike, it does look rather similar to several current showroom models.

Again, there’s no word yet on engine size or output. However, rumours suggest that this concept offers a preview of an upcoming CBR250RR or CBR300RR.

The EV-Cub Concept was first unveiled at 2009’s Tokyo Motor Show. Now, six years later, the electric step-through scooter is making a return with a few subtle changes. A production version is surely overdue.

Also being exhibited are the Super Cub concept (a petrol-powered update of its long-running namesake), the traditional naked Concept CB and a couple of scramblers based on the Grom 50.

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Peugeot expands its Satelis 2 scooter range

October 4, 2015, 4:54 pm

≫ Next: Suzuki’s 2015 Tokyo Motor Show concept cars

≪ Previous: Honda’s 2015 Tokyo Motor Show concept bikes

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Peugeot Satelis 2 scooter buyers in the UK are getting more choice, thanks to the launch of some extra variants.

Both the 125i Premium and 125i RS can now be ordered in Urban guise. This essentially adds anti-lock brakes to each model's specification for a fairly reasonable £400 premium.

The 300i is a completely new member of the line-up. Power comes from a four-stroke, liquid-cooled, 300 cc engine that's mated to an automatic transmission. Boasting 21.6 bhp (16.1 kW / 21.9 PS), it's reckoned to deliver fuel economy and top speed figures of 58.8 mpg (4.8 l/100km) and 80 mph (128 km/h) respectively.

Finally, the existing 400i RS is being joined by a plain 400i. Among the non-RS version's unique features are silver-coloured wheels, a redesigned seat unit, different colour schemes and a taller, non-tinted windscreen. All technical elements – including the 36.7 bhp (27.4 kW / 37.2 PS) 400 cc engine – remain unchanged.

2016 Peugeot Satelis 2 – UK prices
Satelis 2 125i Premium	£3,499
Satelis 2 125i Premium Urban	£3,899
Satelis 2 125i RS	£3,599
Satelis 2 125i RS Urban	£3,999
Satelis 2 300i	£3,999
Satelis 2 400i	£4,599
Satelis 2 400i RS	£4,799
Prices exclude first registration fee and vehicle excise duty.

Related post:
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Suzuki’s 2015 Tokyo Motor Show concept cars

October 5, 2015, 10:46 am

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Some concept cars offer a preview of future production models, but others are more fun creations that exist to show off a design team's talents. Definite candidates for the second category are the slightly oddball Suzuki Air Triser and Mighty Deck.

Air Triser is a compact minivan with a box-like profile and a striking two-tone geometric colour scheme. Its interior, which is accessed via sliding doors, is all about flexible configurations.

For travelling, six people can be accommodated across three rows of seats. However, once parked, there's a choice of lounge or relaxation modes. The former sees the seats rearranged into a U-shape sofa, while the latter has them facing each other.

Reflecting a common marketing obsession, the Mighty Deck is intended to appeal to people who have 'lifestyles'. And apparently that demographic needs a tiny car with most of its back end hacked off.

In place of a conventional (and probably just as practical) hatchback, Suzuki has come up with a small open cargo space that features a flip-up cover. Also fitted are a retractable rear window and a canvas sunroof, so the cabin should get plenty of fresh air when required.

The Air Triser and Mighty Deck are due to make their public debuts at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month.

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2016 Formula One calendar revised

October 5, 2015, 3:10 pm

≫ Next: Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2015

≪ Previous: Suzuki’s 2015 Tokyo Motor Show concept cars

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There are still 21 events on the schedule and all the host venues remain the same, but the FIA World Motor Sport Council has agreed some tweaks to the 2016 Formula One calendar.

Here are the key changes:

• The opening round in Australia will take place two weeks earlier than originally planned.
• Bahrain and China swap places, plus amended dates maintain a two-week gap between the first two races.
• Great Britain and Azerbaijan's inaugural European Grand Prix swap places. Revised dates mean there's just a one-week gap between Canada and the Baku event, which should be a logistics challenge for the teams.
• Hungary and Germany swap places. As the Germany date is unaltered, this creates a four-week summer break.
• Malaysia is moved back by a week. Consequently, the gap between Singapore and Malaysia is extended to two weeks, but the gap between Malaysia and Japan is reduced to one week.
• Mexico is moved back by a week. Consequently, the gap between USA and Mexico is extended to two weeks, but the gap between Mexico and Brazil is reduced to one week.

A new Baku street circuit will host the 2016 European Grand Prix.

2016 FIA Formula One World Championship - Provisional Calendar
Round	Date	Event
1	20 March	Grand Prix of Australia (Melbourne)
2	03 April	Grand Prix of Bahrain (Sakhir)
3	17 April	Grand Prix of China (Shanghai)
4	01 May	Grand Prix of Russia (Sochi)
5	15 May	Grand Prix of Spain (Barcelona)
6	29 May	Grand Prix of Monaco (Monte Carlo)
7	12 June	Grand Prix of Canada (Montreal)
8	19 June	Grand Prix of Europe (Baku)
9	03 July	Grand Prix of Austria (Spielberg)
10	10 July	Grand Prix of Great Britain (Silverstone)
11	24 July	Grand Prix of Hungary (Budapest)
12	31 July	Grand Prix of Germany (Hockenheim)
13	28 August	Grand Prix of Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)
14	04 September	Grand Prix of Italy (Monza)
15	18 September	Grand Prix of Singapore (Marina Bay)
16	02 October	Grand Prix of Malaysia (Sepang)
17	09 October	Grand Prix of Japan (Suzuka)
18	23 October	Grand Prix of USA (Austin)
19	06 November	Grand Prix of Mexico (Mexico City)
20	13 November	Grand Prix of Brazil (São Paulo)
21	27 November	Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi (Yas Marina)

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Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2015

October 6, 2015, 11:52 am

≫ Next: BMW creates the Concept Stunt G 310

≪ Previous: 2016 Formula One calendar revised

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Figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that 462,517 new cars were registered in the UK last month. Helped by a switch to the ‘65’ number plate age identifier, it was the highest ever September total.

As a result, year-to-date registrations now stand at 2,096,886. This number represents an increase of 138,690 units (or 7.1%) compared to the same period in 2014.

The furore caused by rigged emissions testing emerged too late in the month to seriously affect diesel’s market share. That said, the gradual move towards petrol-powered, electric and hybrid cars did continue.

Fuel	Diesel	Petrol	Alternative
2015 YTD	47.9%	49.4%	2.7%
2014 YTD	49.8%	48.3%	1.9%
Change	-1.9%	+1.1%	+0.8%

Of course, it’s also far too early to determine what the impact will be on Volkswagen Group’s sales performance. The Golf remains the fourth most popular model, while the Polo and Audi A3 still occupy places in the top ten league table.

The fourth quarter of 2015 should see demand shift further from diesel models

to petrol-powered alternatives such as the Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion TSI.

Top 10: Cumulative UK Car Registrations Q3 2015
Position	Manufacturer	Model	Registrations
1	Ford	Fiesta	108,054
2	Vauxhall	Corsa	72,835
3	Ford	Focus	69,053
4	Volkswagen	Golf	59,200
5	Nissan	Qashqai	49,715
6	Volkswagen	Polo	45,537
7	Vauxhall	Astra	42,687
8	Audi	A3	38,253
9	Mini	Hatch	35,679
10	Mercedes-Benz	C-Class	35,505

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BMW creates the Concept Stunt G 310

October 7, 2015, 5:11 am

≫ Next: 2015/2016 Formula E calendar updated

≪ Previous: Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2015

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As its name suggests, the BMW Concept Stunt G 310 is a compact bike that’s been designed for maximum agility.

Built with input from well-known stunt rider Chris Pfeiffer, the G 310’s small dimensions are complemented by a newly-developed single-cylinder engine.

This features a cylinder head which is rotated by 180° and an upright exhaust silencer that sits between the motor and the rear suspension’s spring strut. Such an arrangement means the wheelbase can be kept short, while allowing a fairly long rear swingarm.

For performing tricks, extra foot rests are provided by front-axle pegs and an opening in the centre of the solid aluminium tail section. Other modifications include an auxiliary rear-brake lever mounted on the left handlebar and a lockable throttle.

Usefully, crash bars are fitted too…

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2015/2016 Formula E calendar updated

October 7, 2015, 10:39 am

≫ Next: 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 announced

≪ Previous: BMW creates the Concept Stunt G 310

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A few minor amendments to the 2015/2016 Formula E Championship schedule have been confirmed by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

These include:

• The opening event in China will take place a week later than originally proposed.
• Although a host city for the fifth ePrix has still to be announced, this event has been brought forward by a week.
• The inaugural Paris race might happen on the 24th of April instead of the 23rd.
• Dates for the two London rounds have been revealed.

Some regulation changes were also agreed that should help to improve Formula E’s spectacle.

Starting with qualifying, the five fastest drivers will get to participate in a Super Pole session to decide their grid positions.

For the races, which all now count towards the final championship classification, the power limit is being increased from 201 bhp (150 kW / 203 PS) to 228 bhp (170 kW / 231 PS). Furthermore, the introduction of a Full Course Yellow incident management system is expected to reduce the number of safety car deployments.

Extending the FanBoost voting deadline until the mid-race pit stops could allow spectators to really influence the results. Just as important for the series and fans alike, teams are going to be restricted to a maximum of two driver changes per race number per season.

2015/2016 FIA Formula E Championship - Provisional Calendar
Round	Date	Venue
1	24 October 2015	Beijing, China
2	07 November 2015	Putrajaya, Malaysia
3	19 December 2015	Punta del Este, Uruguay
4	06 February 2016	Buenos Aires, Argentina
5	12 March 2016	TBA
6	02 April 2016	Long Beach, United States
7	23 or 24 April 2016	Paris, France
8	21 May 2016	Berlin, Germany
9	04 June 2016	Moscow, Russia
10	02 July 2016	London, United Kingdom
11	03 July 2016	London, United Kingdom

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2016 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 announced

October 7, 2015, 3:49 pm

≫ Next: Toyota S-FR concept first view

≪ Previous: 2015/2016 Formula E calendar updated

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Last month saw Porsche launch its updated rear-wheel drive 911 Carrera models. Now it’s the turn of the all-wheel drive Carrera 4 and Targa 4 variants to get a similar package of improvements.

As a reminder, the biggest change is the introduction of a new 3.0 litre, six-cylinder, twin-turbo engine which delivers 365 bhp (272 kW / 370 PS). For the S versions, that figure rises to 414 bhp (309 kW / 420 PS).

Performance is, unsurprisingly, brisk. Take the Carrera 4S in coupé guise, for example. Equipped with a PDK dual-clutch transmission, it can now accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.0 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 188 mph (303 km/h). Opting for a seven-speed manual gearbox instead changes those benchmarks to 4.2 seconds and 189 mph (305 km/h) respectively.

Fitted as standard is Porsche Active Suspension Management, which electronically adjusts the upgraded dampers and lowers the 911's ride height by 10 mm (0.4”).

Another key chassis enhancement concerns the all-wheel drive system. Electro-hydraulically controlled, this has been made more responsive than before. However, if extra agility is required, rear-axle steering is available as an option for the Carrera 4S and Targa 4S.

In addition to the subtle styling tweaks that were applied to the 2016 Carrera, the revised Carrera 4 and Targa 4 also receive a distinctive thin light strip that runs between the rear light clusters. As previously, their rear wheel arches are wider by 44 mm (1.7”) too.

Sales are due to begin at the end of January 2016, with prices in the UK starting from £81,398.

Model	UK	Germany
911 Carrera 4	£81,398	€103,983
911 Carrera 4S	£90,843	€118,144
911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet	£90,240	€117,073
911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet	£99,684	€131,234
911 Targa 4	£90,240	€117,073
911 Targa 4S	£99,684	€131,234

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Toyota S-FR concept first view

October 8, 2015, 12:19 pm

≫ Next: Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R updated for 2016

≪ Previous: 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 announced

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Ahead of a public unveiling at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month, Toyota has revealed its exciting S-FR concept.

Measuring just 3,990 mm (13’ 1”) long – about the same as a Mazda MX-5 – this lightweight compact coupé is being pitched at enthusiasts who are passionate about driving and enjoy customising their cars.

Like the MX-5, the S-FR adopts a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout to provide decent handling balance. There's no word yet on which engine is fitted, but the transmission is a six-speed manual.

It's still too early to say whether or not the S-FR should become a production model, simply because important factors such as performance and pricing remain unknown. Nevertheless the project (which seems to be a solo Toyota effort, rather than a collaboration with BMW) certainly has great potential.

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Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R updated for 2016

October 8, 2015, 3:51 pm

≫ Next: Celebratory McLaren 650S Can-Am unveiled

≪ Previous: Toyota S-FR concept first view

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According to Kawasaki, the 2016 Ninja ZX-10R is the closest it's possible to get to a road-going World Superbike Championship contender. While the looks aren't dramatically changed, the upgrades are extensive.

They start with the 998 cc four-cylinder engine. Its peak output of 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) – or 207 bhp (154 kW / 210 PS) with ram air – is the same as before, but low- and mid-range acceleration are said to be improved.

That's thanks to numerous alterations which include a re-engineered cylinder head, a lower-inertia crankshaft, a modified titanium exhaust, closer gear ratios and the adoption of more lightweight components.

Another significant advance concerns the electronics, as the Ninja ZX-10R is the first Kawasaki to be equipped with a Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit. This measures five axis of movement and, together with input from the engine's ECU, governs various systems such as the five-mode traction control and a new cornering management function.

A revised suspension set-up now boasts an innovative Showa 'Balance Free' front fork that features an external damping force chamber. It's combined with a smaller and lighter Showa BFRC Lite shock unit at the rear. Furthermore, an Öhlins electronic steering damper is part of the specification.

To enhance braking performance, the front end gains Brembo M50 monobloc brake calipers, a radial-pump master cylinder and larger semi-floating discs.

The 2016 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is due to arrive at dealers in January. A UK price has yet to be confirmed.

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Celebratory McLaren 650S Can-Am unveiled

October 9, 2015, 12:48 pm

≫ Next: Three Ford Edge customs for SEMA 2015

≪ Previous: Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R updated for 2016

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2016 marks the 50th anniversary of the first Canadian-American Challenge Cup race series. Known as Can-Am for short, it was run according to the very liberal ‘Group 7’ sports car regulations which didn’t restrict engine size, materials or aerodynamics.

Unsurprisingly, such a lenient set of rules produced some fairly outrageous cars. A nascent McLaren team emerged as a dominant force in the early years, winning five consecutive championship titles between 1967 and 1971 (with Bruce McLaren himself the victorious driver for two of them).

So it’s fitting that McLaren Special Operations has developed the commemorative 650S Can-Am, a road-going special edition based on the current 641 bhp (478 kW / 650 PS) 650S Spider.

Customers will have a choice of three evocative colour schemes. Mars Red recalls the M1B raced by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon, Papaya Spark is a metallic interpretation of McLaren Orange, and Onyx Black represents the plain shade that most customer cars were supplied in.

The modifications aren’t limited to the paintwork, though. Other unique features include a carbon fibre retractable roof, louvered carbon fibre front wings and a stainless steel exhaust system with four prominent tailpipes.

Further adding to the visual impact are the lightweight forged alloy wheels. Held in place by titanium bolts and shod with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres, they combine gloss black spokes with diamond-cut rims. Behind them sit carbon-ceramic brake discs and black calipers.

Just fifty examples of the 650S Can-Am are going to be produced. In the UK, prices start from £255,850.

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Three Ford Edge customs for SEMA 2015

October 10, 2015, 6:06 pm

≫ Next: Interbrand’s most valuable auto brands of 2015

≪ Previous: Celebratory McLaren 650S Can-Am unveiled

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Ford has commissioned three modified Edge crossovers for the Specialty Equipment Market Association show, which takes place next month in Las Vegas.

Ignition by Webasto

Like the two other Edge customs, Ignition by Webasto is based on the current Sport trim grade. Unsurprisingly, several of its key components have been supplied by Webasto. Among them are a sunroof, a ThermoCall TC3 parking heater and a Thermo Top Evo engine pre-heater.

Upgraded Rotora brakes sit behind 22” AG Luxury forged wheels, while a front splitter, side skirts and a rear diffuser – all made from carbon fibre – help to create a more purposeful look.

A high-flow air filter plus a recalibrated ECU are some of the tweaks made to improve performance. Sportier suspension settings complete the transformation.

Tjin Edition

Axalta Clipper Blue paintwork and matching ADV.1 22” three-piece wheels give the Tjin Edition Edge a definite colour theme.

Air Lift air suspension together with an Air Lift Performance 3H air management system are the most significant alterations, though. And the changes don't stop there, because larger brakes are fitted and the engine gains a Motiv down-pipe, a Magnaflow exhaust and a bespoke intercooler.

Vaccar

Vaccar's Edge interpretation uses a lot of prototype parts. These include the air suspension kit, rear strut bar, exhaust, engine intake and triple-gauge dashboard pod.

Also part of the specification are Alea leather upholstery, a set of 22” Rovos Pretoria wheels and Canfield Customs paintwork that incorporates flat metallic and brushed finishes.

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Interbrand’s most valuable auto brands of 2015

October 11, 2015, 3:29 pm

≫ Next: Return of the Fiat Tipo

≪ Previous: Three Ford Edge customs for SEMA 2015

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Fifteen automotive marques are included in the latest annual Best 100 Global Brands survey.

Compiled by Interbrand, it measures value according to financial analysis, how a brand influences purchasing decisions and brand strength taking into account ten different factors.

Toyota is still the leading automotive brand. In fact, with a 16% rise in value, the Japanese name rose from 8th to 6th place in the overall rankings. That wasn't the largest increase, though. Nissan recorded a 19% hike, elevating it up to 49th position.

Interbrand says Toyota is the world's

most valuable automotive brand.

Even before the recent diesel emissions scandal would have had any effect, Volkswagen suffered a decrease in value and a four-place drop. It'll be intriguing to see how 2016's study reflects the longer-term impact of the current crisis.

Interbrand Best Automotive Brands 2015
Overall ranking	Brand	Value (US$ million)	Change
6	Toyota	49,048	+16%
11	BMW	37,212	+9%
12	Mercedes-Benz	36,711	+7%
19	Honda	22,975	+6%
35	Volkswagen	12,545	-9%
38	Ford	11,578	+6%
39	Hyundai	11,293	+8%
44	Audi	10,328	+5%
49	Nissan	9,082	+19%
56	Porsche	8,055	+12%
74	Kia	5,666	+5%
79	Harley-Davidson	5,460	+14%
85	Chevrolet	5,133	+2%
87	Land Rover	5,109	+14%
98	Mini	4,243	New entry

As per last year, technology companies Apple (US$170,276 million) and Google (US$120,314 million) occupy the top two positions in the overall Interbrand league table.

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Return of the Fiat Tipo

October 12, 2015, 3:42 pm

≫ Next: One-off Hyundai Tucson built for SEMA 2015

≪ Previous: Interbrand’s most valuable auto brands of 2015

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Fiat has announced that its new C-segment contender is to be called Tipo. That nameplate was last used on a hatchback which was launched in 1988.

The 2016 model first appeared at the Istanbul Motor Show earlier this year. In Turkey, where production is due to take place, it'll uniquely be known as Aegea.

Tipo past...

...and Tipo future.

Described by Fiat as a value-for-money offering, the Tipo / Aegea is a five-seat saloon with very traditional styling. The engine line-up comprises two petrol and two diesel units that deliver outputs of between 93 bhp (70 kW / 95 PS) and 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS). An automatic transmission is going to be on the options list.

Availability will be extended to over forty markets across Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Officially, Fiat has yet to confirm whether or not the Tipo is coming to the UK. Such a position is understandable, because significant sales volumes would be unlikely here without a five-door version.

Related post:
2016 Fiat Aegea first view

One-off Hyundai Tucson built for SEMA 2015

October 13, 2015, 3:47 pm

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Hyundai has collaborated with Rockstar Performance Garage to create a 2016 Tucson that promises off-road ability aplenty. Developed for next month's Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas, it features a comprehensive suite of modifications.

Serious all-terrain use demands a decent amount of ground clearance. Therefore this unique Tucson boasts a six-inch ride-height raise, courtesy of King Shocks adjustable strut coilovers at the front and remote-reservoir dampers plus progressive springs at the rear.

Also fitted is a set of KMC 17” XD Series 'Bully' rims shod with Mickey Thompson 32” MTZ P3 tyres. Unsurprisingly, the arches had to be enlarged to accommodate such a suspension and wheel combination.

Further adding to the rugged looks are the revised bumpers, which were created by Rockstar Performance Garage and Wicked Image Designs.

Powering the all-wheel drive Tucson is a four-cylinder, 1.6 litre engine that's mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. It gains numerous performance parts including a custom air intake, an upgraded intercooler, an oil cooler and a replacement exhaust.

Hyundai has yet to reveal the effect on output, though.

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