Chevrolet Silverado Realtree Bone Collector

November 5, 2015, 3:53 pm

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Hunting gear company Realtree, Michael Waddell from 'The Bone Collector' television series and Chevrolet have collaborated to build what's claimed to be “an ultimate outdoor adventure vehicle”.

Based on the four-wheel drive Silverado 1500 High Country pick-up truck, power is provided by a 6.2 litre V8 engine that produces 420 bhp (313 kW / 425 PS).

Among the upgraded components are 22” black-finish six-spoke wheels, off-road tyres, larger brake discs, six-piston calipers and a bumper-mounted front push bar. Fitted to the cargo bed are a unique draw unit, a cooler and a sport bar with LED lights attached.

The Silverado Realtree Bone Collector is currently on display at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas. For now it's just a concept, but Chevrolet has said that a special edition production model could follow if reactions are favourable enough.

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Images © General Motors.

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Chrysler 300 Super S concept unveiled

November 6, 2015, 2:23 pm

≫ Next: The Dodge Dart GLH Concept at SEMA 2015

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Unique bodywork components and a serious engine upgrade give Chrysler's 300 Super S a blend of aggressive looks and performance.

The concept, which was created by Mopar for this year's SEMA show in Las Vegas, features attractive Matte Cerulean paintwork. A black finish on the 22” seven-spoke wheels, roof panel, rear diffuser and prototype front grille provides some visual contrast.

Beneath the skin, the 300 Super S boasts a 5.7 litre Hemi V8 that's fitted with Mopar's Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3 kits. Accompanying the resultant power boost are various chassis enhancements. These include a lowered coilover suspension set-up, bigger brakes and strut tower braces.

Inside, there's a flat-bottom steering wheel, plus the usual rotary gear shifter has been swapped for a T-handle item. Carpet floor mats and Katzkin light grey leather upholstery meanwhile add some extra luxury.

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The Dodge Dart GLH Concept at SEMA 2015

November 6, 2015, 3:47 pm

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Back in 1984, Dodge launched a high-performance version of its Omni subcompact called the GLH. Those initials – which stand for Goes Like Hell – have now been borrowed for a Dart-based concept.

Built by Mopar for this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas, the Dart GLH sports a purposeful appearance. However, apart from a brake upgrade and replacement exhaust tips, it seems that the modifications are purely cosmetic.

They start at the front with a unique grille and an aluminium bonnet. Also part of the specification are a Mopar body kit and a set of lightweight 18” wheels. Pitch Black paintwork plus red accents along the lower body complete the exterior enhancements.

Inside, the upholstery comprises black Katzkin leather with red mesh seat inserts and red stitching.

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2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS first view

November 8, 2015, 3:40 pm

≫ Next: Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

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A revised nomenclature has seen the Mercedes-Benz GL renamed GLS. To go with that new designation, the huge seven-seat SUV – which measures 5,130 mm (16’ 10”) long – has also been given a facelift.

The visual changes follow a predictable recipe. Restyled elements include the bonnet and grille, as well as the bumpers and light clusters. A sportier appearance can be achieved by opting for the AMG Line package, as it adds a body kit plus a 21” wheel upgrade.

Inside, the instruments and centre console have been modified, while the dashboard is dominated by a touchpad-controlled 8” media display.

The GLS range comprises four variants:

Mercedes-Benz GLS 350 d 4Matic
Price in the UK (on the road)	AMG Line: £69,100
Price in the UK (on the road)	Designo Line: £78,095
Price in Germany (excluding VAT)	€62,850
Engine	3.0 litre V6 turbo diesel
Output	254 bhp (190 kW / 258 PS)
Transmission	Nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic; all-wheel drive

Mercedes-Benz GLS 400 4Matic
Price in the UK (on the road)	N/A
Price in Germany (excluding VAT)	€64,425
Engine	3.0 litre V6 biturbo petrol
Output	328 bhp (245 kW / 333 PS)
Transmission	Nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic; all-wheel drive

Mercedes-Benz GLS 500 4Matic
Price in the UK (on the road)	N/A
Price in Germany (excluding VAT)	€81,600
Engine	4.7 litre V8 biturbo petrol
Output	449 bhp (335 kW / 455 PS)
Transmission	Nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic; all-wheel drive

Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 4Matic
Price in the UK (on the road)	£102,330
Price in Germany (excluding VAT)	€113,500
Engine	5.5 litre V8 biturbo petrol
Output	576 bhp (430 kW / 585 PS)
Transmission	Seven-speed AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic automatic; rear-biased AMG Performance all-wheel drive

Deliveries are due to begin across Europe during March 2016. As with the GL, only the diesel and AMG versions will be offered in the UK.

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Range Rover Evoque Convertible revealed

November 9, 2015, 3:12 pm

≫ Next: Genesis offers a preview of its new G90

≪ Previous: 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLS first view

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Could the new Evoque Convertible be the first member of the car market's next big sub-niche? Well, if its sales performance is strong, some other premium compact SUV manufacturers will doubtless rush to build their own drop-top contenders.

Made from fabric, the Evoque's acoustically-insulated roof can be lowered in 18 seconds or raised in 21 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph (48 km/h). In the event of a roll-over, twin aluminium protection bars deploy in just 90 milliseconds. Inside, there's space for four people and luggage capacity is 251 litres.

HSE Dynamic and HSE Dynamic Lux trim grades are being offered. They can be paired with a choice of 2.0 litre, four-cylinder Si4 petrol or Ingenium diesel engines that produce 236 bhp (176 kW / 240 PS) and 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS) respectively.

Both options come mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive system with Terrain Response, All-Terrain Progress Control and Wade Sensing.

In the UK, on-the-road prices for the HSE Dynamic variants are £5,200 higher than those of the equivalent Evoque Coupé models. Similarly, the Lux versions carry a £3,900 premium:

Evoque Convertible HSE Dynamic Diesel	£47,500
Evoque Convertible HSE Dynamic Petrol	£48,200
Evoque Convertible HSE Dynamic Lux Diesel	£51,700
Evoque Convertible HSE Dynamic Lux Petrol	£52,400

Deliveries are due to begin next spring.

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Genesis offers a preview of its new G90

November 10, 2015, 3:37 pm

≫ Next: Fiat Fullback pick-up first view

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In the late 1980s, Toyota and Nissan satisfied their aspirations to move upmarket by launching the Lexus and Infiniti marques. Now Korean manufacturer Hyundai is doing something similar, as it has just announced the creation of a luxury brand named Genesis.

The ambitious plan is to introduce six models by 2020. First to arrive will be the range-topping G90 full-size saloon, a prospective rival to the likes of the Audi A8, Cadillac XTS and Lexus LS.

A couple of renderings have been released that give an indication of what the G90 is going to look like. Long, low proportions follow a visual language that Hyundai's Prestige Design Division calls 'Athletic Elegance'. Key styling features include a large grille at the front, which is connected to the rear light clusters by a prominent belt line.

Specification details have yet to be revealed but – as expected – decent driving dynamics, plenty of technology and numerous safety features are promised.

G90 sales begin in Korea next month, where it'll be known as the Genesis EQ900. Debuts are then planned for China, North America and the Middle East. Europe and the rest of Asia complete the list of territories due to get the car.

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Fiat Fullback pick-up first view

November 11, 2015, 3:19 pm

≫ Next: Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro limited edition

≪ Previous: Genesis offers a preview of its new G90

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There'll soon be another contender in Europe's burgeoning pick-up market. The Fiat Fullback, which has been unveiled at the Dubai International Motor Show, is essentially a rebadged version of the latest Mitsubishi L200.

Single cab, extended cab, double cab and chassis variants are going to be produced, with either rear- or four-wheel drive and a choice of three trim grades.

However, the full range isn't coming to the UK. Here, Fiat is planning to offer only the four-wheel drive double cab model that has a maximum payload of 1,045 kg (2,303 lbs). Furthermore, just two equipment levels will be available.

The engine line-up varies by region. For Europe, power is provided by an all-aluminium 2.4 litre turbo diesel unit tuned to either 151 bhp (113 kW / 153 PS) or 178 bhp (133 kW / 180 PS). Both options can be combined with six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmissions.

Africa and the Middle East are getting 2.5 litre diesel and 2.4 litre petrol motors instead.

While some territories are due to see Fullback sales begin in May 2016, the UK launch won't take place until next autumn. Pricing and final specifications have yet to be confirmed.

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Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro limited edition

November 11, 2015, 3:35 pm

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≪ Previous: Fiat Fullback pick-up first view

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Special editions have often been used to bolster Mazda's MX-5 roadster range. Continuing that tradition is the new Sport Recaro, which is based on the recently-launched fourth-generation MX-5 Sport Nav model.

An enhanced specification (unsurprisingly) includes heated Recaro seats that are trimmed with Alcantara and leather. Alcantara also covers the dashboard panel, while red stitching and piping add some contrast to the interior.

Among its other extra features are 17” diamond-cut eight-spoke alloy wheels, a very subtle black Sports Aero body kit, a small rear spoiler and alloy pedals.

Customers will have a choice of Soul Red or Ceramic metallic paintwork. The only available engine is a 157 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS) 2.0 litre normally-aspirated petrol unit.

MX-5 Sport Recaro production is being restricted to 600 units and prices start from £24,295. Compared to the MX-5 Sport Nav, that figure represents a premium of £1,000.

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2017 Cadillac XT5 crossover unveiled

November 12, 2015, 3:21 pm

≫ Next: BMW builds the all-electric eRR motorcycle

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An all-new replacement for Cadillac's mid-size SRX has been revealed. Called XT5, that name introduces a revised nomenclature for the brand's crossovers.

Compared to its predecessor, the XT5 is slightly shorter, narrower and lower. However, the wheelbase is 2.0 cm (0.8”) longer and, as a result, rear-seat passengers gain 8.1 cm (3.2”) of extra legroom. Furthermore, weight has been reduced by a handy 126 kg (278 lbs).

For North America, power is going to be provided by a 3.6 litre V6 petrol engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This motor, which is already used in both the ATS and CTS, produces an estimated 310 bhp (231 kW / 314 PS) with 366 Nm (270 lb/ft) of peak torque. A choice of front- or all-wheel drive will be offered.

The technology-intensive equipment list is set to include 4G connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, a wireless charger for mobile devices and a reversing camera that cleverly uses the interior rear-view mirror as a display. Among the planned cost options are full LED headlights and a head-up display.

XT5 production is due to begin in the United States and China in spring 2016.

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Images © General Motors.

BMW builds the all-electric eRR motorcycle

November 12, 2015, 3:29 pm

≫ Next: 2016 MG3 announced

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BMW Motorrad and the Technical University of Munich have collaborated to create an electric-powered version of the S 1000 RR supersport bike.

Named eRR, for now it's a one-off concept. Unfortunately, BMW hasn't released any technical details so performance, battery range and recharge times remain a mystery.

Likewise, any plans for a production version are yet to be confirmed.

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2016 MG3 announced

November 13, 2015, 1:08 pm

≫ Next: BMW enters another market with the G 310 R

≪ Previous: BMW builds the all-electric eRR motorcycle

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Arguably, MG's 3 supermini deserves greater sales success. It's handsomely styled, there are plenty of personalisation options and prices are very attractive.

Perhaps a few updates for 2016 will be enough to convince more car buyers to consider the MG? The changes focus on the sole 1.5 litre petrol engine, which now features a stop-start system and achieves the EU6 emissions standard.

As a result, carbon dioxide pollution falls from 136 g/km to 124 g/km – admittedly not a massive drop, but enough to knock £20 off the annual road tax bill in the UK. MG says fuel economy is better too, but oddly figures haven't been released to back up that claim.

Apart from some additional colour combinations and a new chrome grille, the only other significant development is the introduction of a 3Style Lux trim grade which features leather upholstery.

MG3 3Time	£8,399
MG3 3Form	£9,599
MG3 3Form Sport	£9,899
MG3 3Style	£10,499
MG3 3Style Lux	£10,999

Deliveries of the 2016 MG3 are due to begin next week.

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BMW enters another market with the G 310 R

November 15, 2015, 2:55 pm

≫ Next: Lotus launches the Elise Sport and Sport 220

≪ Previous: 2016 MG3 announced

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BMW wants to sell 200,000 motorcycles per annum by 2020. Helping to achieve such an ambitious target will be models such as the new G 310 R, which the firm describes as a “premium offering” for the sub-500 cc segments in Europe, Asia and South America.

Adding a small-capacity roadster to the range is a major departure for BMW. However that's not the G 310 R's only anomaly, because it's going to be manufactured by 'cooperation partner' TVS in India. All design and engineering work has taken place in Germany, though.

Built around a tubular steel frame, power comes from a fuel-injected and liquid-cooled 313 cc engine. Featuring twin overhead camshafts and four valves, this rearwards-tilting single-cylinder unit produces 33 bhp (25 kW / 34 PS) with 28 Nm (20 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Not a massive output then, but the G 310 R only weighs 158.5 kg (349.4 lbs). The bike's relative lightness is combined with a low seat height of just 785 mm (30.9”).

Chassis components include an upside-down front fork and an aluminium rear swingarm. The braking set-up comprises a single disc for each wheel plus a two-channel anti-lock system.

Price and perceived quality are going to be two of the main factors that determine whether or not enough customers want to buy the G 310 R. For now, both are unknown.

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Lotus launches the Elise Sport and Sport 220

November 16, 2015, 2:49 pm

≫ Next: 2016 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate unveiled

≪ Previous: BMW enters another market with the G 310 R

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Revisions to the Lotus Elise range mean the entry-level model is now called Sport, while the S has been replaced by a Sport 220 version.

The changes aren't just cosmetic though, because both the Sport and Sport 220 are 10 kg (22 lbs) lighter than their predecessors. That diet has been achieved by modifying various components such as the seats and battery. Some parts – presumably unnecessary – have even been removed altogether.

Sales of the two new Elise variants are due to begin across Europe next month. They'll then be available in other worldwide markets from January 2016.

Elise	Sport	Sport 220
UK price	£29,900	£36,500
Euro price	€39,900	€48,700
Engine	1.6 litre I4	1.8 litre I4 supercharged
Transmission	Six-speed manual	Six-speed manual
Power	134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS)	217 bhp (162 kW / 220 PS)
Torque	160 Nm (118 lb/ft)	250 Nm (184 lb/ft)
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	6.5 secs	4.6 secs
Top speed	127 mph (204 km/h)	145 mph (234 km/h)
Combined cycle	44.8 mpg (6.3 l/100km)	37.7 mpg (7.5 l/100km)
CO2 emissions	149 g/km	173 g/km
Unladen weight	866 kg (1,909 lbs)	914 kg (2,015 lbs)

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2016 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate unveiled

November 18, 2015, 3:48 pm

≫ Next: 2017 GMC Canyon Denali announced

≪ Previous: Lotus launches the Elise Sport and Sport 220

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Currently, around one-quarter of GMC buyers opt for the luxury Denali trim grade. That proportion could soon increase with the introduction of the Sierra Denali Ultimate.

The new arrival's interior boasts leather upholstery, soft-touch materials, aluminium accents and a heated steering wheel. Furthermore, the heated and ventilated front seats are fully power-adjustable.

Also part of the specification are keyless entry, a sunroof, a powered sliding rear window, Lane Keep Assist and a reversing camera. The touchscreen-based infotainment set-up incorporates satellite navigation, OnStar 4G LTE connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

GMC is offering the Sierra Denali Ultimate in crew cab guise only, but there is a choice of  either 5’ 8” or 6’ 6” cargo bed lengths.

As standard, power comes from a 5.3 litre V8 engine that delivers its 355 bhp (264 kW / 360 PS) to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. If more output is required, then a 420 bhp (313 kW / 425 PS) 6.2 litre V8 can be ordered instead.

Sales of the Sierra Denali Ultimate are scheduled to begin during the first quarter of 2016.

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Images © General Motors.

2017 GMC Canyon Denali announced

November 18, 2015, 3:50 pm

≫ Next: Abarth 695 biposto Record launched

≪ Previous: 2016 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate unveiled

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GMC has decided to add the upmarket Denali trim grade to its mid-size Canyon pick-up range.

A luxurious interior features Mulan leather upholstery, front-seat heating and ventilation, special floor mats and a heated steering wheel.

As well as a bespoke instrument panel, the generous specification also includes remote vehicle start, automatic climate control, touchscreen satellite navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

20” machined alloy wheels, side steps, a spray-in bed liner and a unique chrome grille help to identify the Canyon Denali, which will only be available with a crew cab.

The engine line-up comprises 3.6 litre V6 petrol and 2.8 litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel units. Both can be combined with either rear- or four-wheel drive.

Deliveries of the Canyon Denali are due to start towards the end of next year.

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Images © General Motors.

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Abarth 695 biposto Record launched

November 19, 2015, 4:43 pm

≫ Next: Buick unveils the all-new 2017 LaCrosse

≪ Previous: 2017 GMC Canyon Denali announced

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To mark fifty years since the company's founder set an acceleration record at Monza, Abarth has created a special edition. The Record, which is based on the two-seat 695 biposto, mixes a 997 kg (2,198 lbs) kerb weight with a 187 bhp (139 kW / 190 PS) turbocharged 1.4 litre engine.

Helping to achieve that lightness are an aluminium bonnet, 18” OZ alloy wheels and Sabelt carbon-shell seats. An Akrapovic exhaust, Brembo brakes, a mechanical self-locking differential and four-point seatbelts are also part of the specification.

The regular 695 biposto's exotic 'dog-ring' gearbox has been replaced by a more mundane synchromesh transmission. Nevertheless, performance is still impressive: the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint takes just 5.9 seconds, while the car's top speed is 143 mph (230 km/h).

Production of the 695 biposto Record is being limited to 133 units and all will have Modena Yellow paintwork. In the UK, its on-the-road price is £36,610.

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Buick unveils the all-new 2017 LaCrosse

November 20, 2015, 5:01 pm

≫ Next: BMW R nineT Scrambler launched

≪ Previous: Abarth 695 biposto Record launched

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Next summer will see the third-generation LaCrosse arrive at Buick dealers across North America. Like its predecessor, the 2017 model is a four-door, five-seat saloon that has aspirations to take on rivals from more premium brands.

There have been some notable changes, though. A new high-strength steel structure means a weight reduction of around 136 kg (300 lbs), plus the proportions are subtly different. An overall length of 5,017 mm (197.5”) is about the same as before, but the wheelbase is longer by 65 mm (2.7”) and the roofline is 40 mm (1.6”) lower.

One styling highlight is the revised front grille. This incorporates darkened vertical 'waterfall' bars, a horizontal chrome bar and a prominent three-colour Buick badge. Unfortunately the rather fussy result lacks much of the old design's visual impact.

Inside, Buick says premium soft-feel materials are used to create an upmarket ambience. In a similar vein, particular attention has been paid to cabin noise insulation. Active sound cancellation, triple-sealed doors, an acoustic-laminated windscreen, acoustic wheelhouse liners and a five-link rear suspension set-up all help to keep things quiet.

As expected, the LaCrosse packs in plenty of technology. Items include a configurable driver information screen, an IntelliLink touchscreen-based infotainment system, OnStar 4G LTE with a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging and smartphone integration via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

A head-up display, a reversing camera, adaptive cruise control, an automatic parking assistant, a lane-keeping device, forward collision alert, forward automatic braking and continuously variable damping are available too.

Power comes from an all-aluminium 3.6 litre V6 engine which is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Featuring cylinder deactivation and a stop-start system for better efficiency, it develops 305 bhp (227 kW / 309 PS) with 363 Nm (268 lb/ft) of torque. Either front- or all-wheel drive can be specified.

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Images © General Motors.

BMW R nineT Scrambler launched

November 22, 2015, 3:37 pm

≫ Next: Kawasaki reveals the J125 scooter

≪ Previous: Buick unveils the all-new 2017 LaCrosse

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Just about every motorcycle manufacturer is currently rushing to add a scrambler to their range. With the introduction of the R nineT Scrambler, BMW is the latest firm to follow this unexplained trend.

Compared to the regular R nineT, there are several obvious differences. They include a raised exhaust, five-spoke cast alloy wheels, knobbly tyres and higher handlebars.

Some of the changes have seemingly been made to reduce costs. For example, the roadster model boasts an upside-down front fork taken from the S 1000 RR supersports bike and a brushed aluminium fuel tank. By contrast, the scrambler has a conventional front fork set-up with rubber gaiters and a painted steel tank.

Whether or not those savings will be passed on to customers remains to be seen, as a price has yet to be announced.

Power comes from the familiar 1,170 cc twin-cylinder boxer engine, which develops 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS).

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Kawasaki reveals the J125 scooter

November 22, 2015, 3:52 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Mazda CX-9 first view

≪ Previous: BMW R nineT Scrambler launched

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With the introduction of the J125, Kawasaki is doubling its European scooter range to two models.

The new arrival is essentially a J300 fitted with a smaller-capacity engine. Developed in collaboration with Kymco, power comes from a 125 cc four-stroke, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder motor that produces 13.8 bhp (10.3 kW / 14.0 PS) and 11.5 Nm (8.4 lb/ft) of peak torque. Drive is delivered via a continuously-variable transmission.

There's nothing especially remarkable about the J125. Key features include a glovebox with a 12v outlet, under-seat storage and a multi-function liquid crystal display in between the main instruments. Anti-lock brakes are available too.

A seat height of 775 mm (30.5”) should suit shorter riders and novices, although a 182 kg (401 lbs) kerb weight seems rather heavy.

Colour choices comprise Anthracite Black or Frosted Ice White, both of which are metallic shades. There's also a Special Edition version that mixes flat metallic Anthracite Black paintwork with some subtle green stripes.

Kawasaki has yet to confirm prices.

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2017 Mazda CX-9 first view

November 23, 2015, 3:29 pm

≫ Next: Suzuki introduces a larger-capacity VanVan

≪ Previous: Kawasaki reveals the J125 scooter

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Mazda's all-new CX-9 is the latest model to benefit from the brand's Kodo 'Soul of Motion' design language. Unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show, it's a mid-size crossover with three rows of seats.

The CX-9 is primarily aimed at “more mature families” in North American markets who appreciate space, comfort and refinement. On that basis, Mazda is hoping for annual sales of 50,000 units.

Among the available engines will be the just-introduced Skyactiv-G 2.5T unit. As that name suggests, this is a high-compression 2.5 litre turbocharged gasoline motor which features direct fuel injection plus a cooled exhaust gas recirculation device.

Output is rated at 227 bhp (169 kW / 230 PS), while peak torque is a very decent 420 Nm (310 lb/ft). Performance and economy figures have yet to be published, though.

Deliveries of the 2017 CX-9 are due to begin during spring next year.

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