Suzuki introduces a larger-capacity VanVan

November 24, 2015, 3:27 pm

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This year's EICMA show in Milan saw the debut of Suzuki's VanVan 200.

In essence, this new motorcycle takes the existing VanVan 125 and equips it with a larger 199 cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, air-cooled engine. Power and economy figures have yet to be revealed, though.

The rest of the specification is pretty much unchanged. That means the 200 model features 18” front and 14” rear wheels shod with balloon tyres, a front disc / rear drum brake set-up and a well-padded wide saddle that's only 770 mm (30.3”) high. A weight of just 128 kg (282 lbs) should be very manageable for most riders.

Available in a choice of either Metallic Triton Blue or Solid Black paintwork, VanVan 200 deliveries are scheduled to start next February. For now, Suzuki is keeping quiet on pricing.

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2016 Suzuki SV650 unveiled

November 24, 2015, 3:45 pm

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Suzuki is replacing its SFV650 Gladius roadster with a new SV650.

Built around a tubular steel frame with a 13.8 litre (3.0 gallon) fuel tank, the 2016 SV650 features the familiar fuel-injected 645 cc V-twin motor mated to a six-speed gearbox. Numerous upgraded components have been fitted though, such as low-friction resin-coated piston skirts.

Another notable innovation is Low RPM Assist. This uses an Idle Speed Control device to slightly raise engine revs when setting off from rest or during low-speed riding, thereby helping to keep things smooth and prevent stalling.

As a result of the changes, power has increased to 75 bhp (56 kW / 76 PS) while peak torque is 64 Nm (47 lb/ft). Fuel economy is 73.5 mpg (3.84 l/100km) according to the WMTC measure.

Standard equipment includes an easy-start system, five-spoke cast aluminium wheels and a comprehensive LCD instrument panel which shows fuel level, range remaining and average or instantaneous fuel consumption.

An SV650 equipped with anti-lock brakes weighs 197 kg (434 lbs). Although that might seem quite hefty, it's actually 8 kg (18 lbs) lighter than the SFV650 Gladius. Furthermore, the narrow saddle is only 785 mm (30.9”) high, so even novice riders buying their first big-capacity bike shouldn't feel intimidated.

There's a choice of Metallic Matt Black, Metallic Triton Blue, Pearl Mira Red or Pearl Glacier White colour schemes. However, it seems that the red option won't be offered in the UK when deliveries begin next March.

Suzuki has yet to announce a price for the 2016 SV650.

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Piaggio adds the Medley to its scooter range

November 25, 2015, 12:04 pm

≫ Next: Fixes for Volkswagen EA 189 diesel engines

≪ Previous: 2016 Suzuki SV650 unveiled

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Piaggio has unveiled the Medley, a large-wheel scooter that'll slot between the Liberty and Beverly SportTouring in the brand's model line-up.

This new arrival, which is being aimed rather clumsily at younger riders, is powered by 125 cc or 150 cc versions of the iGet liquid-cooled engine. A standard stop-start device should help to reduce fuel consumption.

Also included in the specification are an immobiliser, anti-lock brakes and a digital instrument display. Another selling point is the under-seat storage, as Piaggio says it's large enough to accommodate two helmets.

Launch dates and prices have yet to be confirmed.

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Fixes for Volkswagen EA 189 diesel engines

November 25, 2015, 3:27 pm

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Volkswagen says it has identified specific actions that would rectify irregular NOx emissions from EA 189 diesel engines. These remedies have been approved already by the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (German Federal Motor Transport Authority).

According to Volkswagen:

“A 'flow transformer' will be fitted directly in front of the air mass sensor on the 1.6 litre EA 189 engine. This is a mesh that calms the swirled air flow in front of the air mass sensor and will thus decisively improve the measuring accuracy of the air mass sensor. The air mass sensor determines the current air mass throughput, which is a very important parameter for the engine management for an optimum combustion process. In addition, a software update will be performed on this engine. The time needed for the implementation of the technical measures is expected to be less than one hour.

“The 2.0 litre engines will get a software update. The pure labour time for this measure will be around half an hour.

“The objective for the development of the technical measures is still to achieve the applicable emission targets in each case without any adverse effects on the engine output, fuel consumption and performance. However, as all model variants first have to be measured, the achievement of these targets cannot yet be finally confirmed.”

Affected cars will be subject to a recall from January 2016. That process, which for now applies to European markets only, is expected to take a full year to complete.

Audi, Seat, Škoda and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are planning identical programmes for their EA 189-equipped vehicles.

Regarding similar 'cheat device' issues with Volkswagen's 1.2 litre three-cylinder diesel engine, separate proposals are due to be submitted to the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt at the end of this month.

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A special Mercedes-AMG model marks F1 wins

November 27, 2015, 3:50 pm

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This weekend's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is set to be an anti-climatic end to the 2015 Formula One season. An utterly dominant Mercedes AMG Petronas secured the constructors' title ages ago, while the team's Lewis Hamilton has already taken his third driver's crown.

To celebrate those victories, the Mercedes-AMG A 45 4Matic 2015 World Champion Edition has been created.

This limited edition – which will be available from January to May 2016 – is distinguished by green and black foil decals that evoke the F1 car's livery. It also boasts a larger front splitter, a prominent rear wing and titanium-coloured 19” cross-spoke wheels.

Inside, the specification is enhanced by AMG Performance seats, bespoke leather and microfibre upholstery with green stitching, green air vent trims, an AMG Performance steering wheel and a unique centre console badge. The AMG Exclusive, AMG Dynamic Plus and Night packages are fitted, too.

Mechanically everything has been left unchanged, so beneath the bonnet is a 2.0 litre turbocharged engine that produces 375 bhp (280 kW / 381 PS) with 475 Nm (350 lb/ft) of peak torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive complete the powertrain.

In Germany, prices start from €65,402.40 (including VAT) if Mountain Grey metallic or Polar Silver metallic paintwork are chosen. Opting for Designo Mountain Grey Magno instead will see the cost rise to €66,818.50.

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Jeep launches the Cherokee Night Eagle edition

November 30, 2015, 4:30 pm

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Jeep's latest special edition Cherokee combines a few cosmetic tweaks with some extra specification. Called the Night Eagle, it's based on the existing Longitude Plus trim grade.

Distinguishing features include deep-tint glass, gloss black roof bars, satin grey bodywork elements and a unique tailgate badge. Furthermore, the usual 17” alloy wheels have been upgraded to gloss black 18” five-spoke items.

Inside, the Longitude Plus standard equipment list is augmented by leather upholstery, electrically-adjustable lumber support for the driver and front-seat heating.

Power is provided by a 2.2 litre MultiJet turbo diesel engine which produces 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) with 440 Nm (324 lb/ft) of peak torque. That output is sent to an Active Drive I 4x4 system via a nine-speed automatic transmission.

The Cherokee Night Eagle is available now in a choice of Brilliant Black, Granite Crystal, Billet Silver or Bright White paintwork.

350 examples are coming to the UK, where on-the-road prices start from £36,795.

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2016 Audi R18 e-tron quattro unveiled

November 30, 2015, 5:00 pm

≫ Next: 2016 DTM calendar announced

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This year's thrilling FIA World Endurance Championship was extremely rewarding for Porsche. As well as winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Stuttgart team secured both the manufacturers' and drivers' titles.

Audi Sport, which was Porsche's strongest challenger in 2015, has already begun preparing for next season. Central to its campaign will be a redesigned R18 e-tron quattro LMP1 race car.

The just-revealed 2016 model retains a turbo diesel engine, but there has been a significant change to the hybrid part of the powertrain. Replacing the four mega-joule flywheel energy storage system is a six mega-joule set-up that uses lithium-ion batteries instead.

Full technical details and estimated output figures have yet to be released.

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2016 DTM calendar announced

November 30, 2015, 5:30 pm

≫ Next: Citroën, Peugeot and Toyota create a new van

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Next season will see the DTM sticking to its proven format of nine two-race rounds.

The schedule, which has just been published, begins and ends at Hockenheim. In between, the championship is due to visit both German and foreign circuits. However, for the third year running, there won't be an event in Britain.

Mercedes-AMG has already unveiled the C 63 DTM, its 2016 car.

In fact, apart from some date moves, just one major change has been made compared to 2015: the Hungaroring returns as a venue, replacing Oschersleben.

2016 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters – Calendar
Race	Date	Circuit	Country
1, 2	07, 08 May	Hockenheimring	Germany
3, 4	21, 22 May	Red Bull Ring Spielberg	Austria
5, 6	04, 05 June	EuroSpeedway Lausitz	Germany
7, 8	25, 26 June	Norisring	Germany
9, 10	16, 17 July	Zandvoort	Netherlands
11, 12	20, 21 August	Moscow Raceway	Russia
13, 14	10, 11 September	Nürburgring	Germany
15, 16	24, 25 September	Hungaroring	Hungary
17, 18	15, 16 October	Hockenheimring	Germany

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Citroën, Peugeot and Toyota create a new van

December 1, 2015, 3:40 pm

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In late 2012, PSA Peugeot Citroën and Toyota formed a partnership to build light commercial vehicles in Europe. The latest product of that collaboration is a new mid-size van which will be marketed as the Citroën SpaceTourer, Peugeot Traveller and Toyota ProAce.

When sales begin next year they'll be offered in MPV, shuttle bus and panel van guises. Technical specifications, capacities and dimensions are yet to be announced, but the overall proportions seem to have been strongly influenced by the Volkswagen Transporter.

The virtually identical SpaceTourer, Traveller and ProAce are due to make their public debuts at the Geneva Motor Show in March. All three models will be manufactured by PSA Peugeot Citroën in Valenciennes, France.

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2016 Volvo S90 first view

December 2, 2015, 3:50 pm

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≪ Previous: Citroën, Peugeot and Toyota create a new van

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Volvo has finally unveiled its all-new S90 saloon, which is effectively a replacement for the now fairly ancient S80.

The task facing the S90 shouldn't be underestimated. Volvo wants a credible contender in the executive class, so that means attracting customers who would otherwise buy established rivals such as the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Jaguar XF and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Long, low proportions and elegant styling are certainly two things in the Volvo's favour. At the front, a bold upright grille flanked by narrow headlights offers a clear visual link to the recently-launched XC90. Prominent shoulder lines run along the flanks, while the rear – arguably the least resolved aspect – features large C-shaped light clusters.

According to Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design at Volvo Car Group: “Our idea was to bring something entirely new to this rather conservative segment and deliver a visual expression that exudes leadership and confidence on the exterior. On the inside we have taken the S90 to the next level, delivering a high-end luxury experience that promises comfort and control.”

Performance and efficiency figures have yet to be released, but the engine line-up comprises four options:

• D4 2.0 litre two-stage turbocharged diesel.
• D5 2.0 litre two-stage turbocharged diesel available with PowerPulse, an automatic compressed air device that reduces turbo lag under heavy acceleration.
• T6 2.0 litre supercharged and turbocharged petrol.
• T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, incorporating a 2.0 litre petrol engine, a rear-axle electric motor, a crankshaft-mounted integrated starter / generator, a lithium-ion battery pack and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 2016 S90 is due to debut at next month's North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

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2016 FIA WEC calendar revised

December 3, 2015, 2:35 pm

≫ Next: 2016 Formula One calendar finalised

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Following a meeting of the World Motor Sport Council earlier this week, just one minor change has been made to the 2016 FIA World Endurance Championship timetable.

The fifth round will take place at Mexico's Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez a day earlier than originally planned. That means the race is going to be run on a Saturday rather than a Sunday.

Audi has already revealed its 2016 LMP1 contender, a revised R18.

Also agreed were technical measures proposed by the Endurance Commission. Focussing mainly on powertrain regulations, aerodynamics and testing limits, these are intended to attract more manufacturers to the LMP1 class.

2016 FIA World Endurance Championship - Calendar
Round	Date	Event	Country
1	17 April	6 Hours of Silverstone	Great Britain
2	07 May	6 Hours of Spa	Belgium
3	18/19 June	24 Hours of Le Mans	France
4	24 July	6 Hours of Nürburgring	Germany
5	03 September	6 Hours of Mexico City	Mexico
6	17 September	6 Hours of COTA - Lone Star Le Mans	USA
7	16 October	6 Hours of Fuji	Japan
8	06 November	6 Hours of Shanghai	China
9	19 November	6 Hours of Bahrain	Bahrain

An official pre-season testing session at Circuit Paul Ricard in France – known as The Prologue – is scheduled for the 25th and 26th of March.

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2016 Formula One calendar finalised

December 3, 2015, 3:58 pm

≫ Next: BBR launches its 2016 MX-5 tuning range

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A single amendment to 2016 Formula One calendar has been agreed by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

This involves the Mexico Grand Prix, which is brought forward by a week (thereby returning the event to its originally proposed date).

Unfortunately, serious doubts remain about the USA race. That's because Texas has reduced annual funding to the Circuit of the Americas from $25.0M to $18.5M, leaving the promoters with a huge budgetary deficit.

The Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas.

2016 FIA Formula One World Championship - 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	30 October	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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BBR launches its 2016 MX-5 tuning range

December 5, 2015, 3:26 pm

≫ Next: Suzuki adds the Vitara S to its range

≪ Previous: 2016 Formula One calendar finalised

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British tuner BBR has introduced a modification programme for the all-new fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata.

The enhancements begin with the engines. For the smaller 1.5 litre unit, a Super 160 package is available. This lifts power from 129 bhp (96 kW / 131 PS) to a claimed 158 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS) thanks to a BBR Starchip ECU swap, revised ignition timing, optimised fuelling and camshaft tweaks. Likewise, peak torque rises to 158 Nm (117 lb/ft).

Similar alterations to the 2.0 litre motor result in the Super 175+ upgrade. Output increases from the stock 158 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS) to 177 bhp (132 kW / 179 PS), torque climbs by 20 Nm (15 lb/ft) to 219 Nm (162 lb/ft) and the rev limit is higher at 7,100 rpm.

The Super 160 and Super 175+ each cost £495 including fitting, but excluding VAT.

Also being offered is a more comprehensive Super 190 option for the 2.0 litre MX-5. Priced at £1,995 fitted (plus VAT), its additional BBR-produced components include a cold air intake system, an exhaust manifold and a stainless steel exhaust with twin tailpipes.

Consequently, the roadster's key stats become 190 bhp (141 kW / 192 PS) at 6,700 rpm and 238 Nm (176 lb/ft) at a low 3,350 rpm. Furthermore, at least 203 Nm (150 lb/ft) is produced between 2,500 rpm and 6,500 rpm, so frantic gear-changing shouldn't be necessary.

To complement the powertrain improvements, BBR has developed some chassis parts too.

As well as various wheel and tyre combinations, customers can order more effective front brake pads (£195 fitted, excluding VAT) and replacement rising-rate suspension springs (£495 plus VAT installed, including laser geometry alignment) that drop the MX-5's ride height by 30 mm (1.2”).

For home mechanics, all of the above elements are also being sold on a DIY basis at slightly reduced prices.

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Suzuki adds the Vitara S to its range

December 6, 2015, 3:04 pm

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A rear spoiler, gloss black 17” alloy wheels and a unique grille design give the Vitara S a distinctly sporty appearance. This new trim grade isn't just about looks though, because it's the first Suzuki to feature an engine with the brand's Boosterjet technology.

Essentially that means the 1.4 litre petrol motor boasts direct fuel injection, plus a compact turbocharger which is attached directly to the cylinder head. As a result, output is rated at 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS), while 220 Nm (162 lb/ft) of peak torque is available between 1,500 and 4,000 rpm.

By comparison, the existing 1.6 litre normally-aspirated petrol unit develops just 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS) and 156 Nm (115 lb/ft).

A 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 10.2 seconds and a 124 mph (200 km/h) top speed make the S the quickest Vitara available. Those figures apply to both the six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission options, both of which are combined with Allgrip four-mode four-wheel drive.

Efficiency is very respectable too. With a manual gearbox, combined cycle economy is 52.3 mpg (5.4 l/100km) and CO2 emissions are 127 g/km. 51.3 mpg (5.5 l/100km) and 128 g/km respectively for the automatic alternative are virtually the same.

Apart from its cosmetic and mechanical enhancements, the Vitara S pretty much shares a standard equipment list with the SZ5 version. Consequently, the generous specification includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth, smartphone linkage, a DAB radio, LED headlights, parking sensors, a reversing camera and adaptive cruise control.

UK prices for the Vitara S start at £20,899, or £22,249 if an automatic transmission is ordered. Deliveries are due to begin in January.

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McLaren reveals the 675LT Spider

December 7, 2015, 3:13 pm

≫ Next: V-Strom 1000 Titanium limited edition unveiled

≪ Previous: Suzuki adds the Vitara S to its range

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Earlier this year McLaren launched the 675LT Coupé, a lighter and more powerful 'longtail' interpretation of the 650S which had a production run of just 500 units. It was obviously a successful exercise, because the exact same recipe has now been applied to the open-top Spider.

The 675LT Coupé's upgraded components have been carried over to the 675LT Spider unchanged. Therefore the specification includes a comprehensively modified 3.8 litre V8 twin-turbo engine that delivers 666 bhp (496 kW / 675 PS) with 700 Nm (516 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Weight is up slightly from 1,230 kg (2,711 lbs) to 1,270 kg (2,799 lbs), thanks purely to the Spider's three-piece retractable roof mechanism. McLaren says that the carbon fibre chassis hasn't required any additional strengthening.

Performance is barely affected though, as both 675LT models manage the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in 2.9 seconds. The Spider's 0-124 mph (200 km/h) time of 8.1 seconds is only 0.2 seconds slower than the Coupé's, while its top speed slips by a negligible 2 mph (4 km/h) to 203 mph (326 km/h).

UK prices for the 675LT Spider start at £285,450, which is £25,950 more than the Coupé cost. Deliveries are due to begin next summer.

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V-Strom 1000 Titanium limited edition unveiled

December 8, 2015, 3:34 pm

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A new accessory-laden special edition is joining the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 range for 2016. Called Titanium, it's named after the sole available matt metallic paint colour.

For rider comfort and convenience, the bike's extra specification includes a centre stand, heated grips, hand guards, a touring windscreen and a Garmin 590 satellite navigation unit.

Touring requirements meanwhile are taken care of by a tank bag, panniers and LED front fog lights. Also fitted are engine protection bars and a lower cowling.

The V-Strom 1000 Titanium has an on-the-road price of £11,135. That's £2,000 more than the regular entry-level model costs.

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2016 NACTOY finalists

December 8, 2015, 3:43 pm

≫ Next: 2016 Hyundai i20 WRC livery revealed

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The 2016 North American Car and Truck / Utility of the Year awards finalists have been announced.

In the car category, they are the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Civic and Mazda MX-5 Miata (surprisingly, the Chevrolet Volt didn't proceed beyond the shortlist stage).

Chevrolet Malibu: 2016 North American Car of the Year finalist.

Predicting a winner is tough, especially with a sports car in the mix. That said, the recently-launched Malibu should be favourite to take the prize, simply because it embodies so many advances compared to the old model.

Two SUVs and one pick-up are finalists in the truck / utility class: the Honda Pilot, Volvo XC90 and Nissan Titan XD. Of these the XC90 is arguably the most accomplished candidate, but the Titan XD could still snatch victory.

Volvo XC90: 2016 North American Truck / Utility of the Year finalist.

The overall winners – which are decided by a jury of 53 automotive journalists from Canada and the United States – will be declared on the 11th of January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

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Chevrolet Malibu image © General Motors.

2016 Hyundai i20 WRC livery revealed

December 9, 2015, 3:38 pm

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Next year's FIA World Rally Championship will see the debut of Hyundai's new five-door i20. It's destined to have a very short career as a works entry though, because revised homologation regulations are coming in 2017.

Nevertheless, the 2016 i20 WRC has undergone a year-long development programme and, as a result, Hyundai says pace is improved compared to the previous car. Indeed, challenging for titles is now seen as a realistic objective.

Dani Sordo, Hayden Paddon and Thierry Neuville have been named as the team's drivers. All three are going to compete in every round of the series. Furthermore, a fourth i20 WRC is due to appear at a few selected events, with Hyundai Motorsport's test driver Kevin Abbring behind the wheel.

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Vauxhall secures a huge police order

December 10, 2015, 2:40 pm

≫ Next: 2016 Suzuki GSR750 MotoGP edition launched

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A deal to supply over 2,000 vehicles to 28 police forces and six fire services has been announced by Vauxhall.

The contract, which extends over two years, encompasses 1,200 examples of the latest British-built Astra. Also included in this agreement are the Corsa, Insignia and Luton-made Vivaro van.

West Midlands Police led the procurement negotiations. David Wilkin, its Director of Resources, remarked: “A vehicle purchasing collaboration between police forces and partners on this scale has never been seen before and I am delighted to say that it has been a huge success in terms of the savings made and how well the organisations have worked together.”

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Images © General Motors.

2016 Suzuki GSR750 MotoGP edition launched

December 10, 2015, 2:50 pm

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Suzuki's racing activities have been the inspiration for its latest special edition motorcycle, the GSR750 MotoGP.

Distinguishing features include metallic Triton Blue paintwork, unique graphics and wheel pinstripes. Also fitted are an aluminium chain guard and a black carbon-tipped Yoshimura R11 exhaust.

Numerous anodised Yoshimura parts – the handlebar end weights, oil filler plug, timing cover plug, engine case savers and paddock stand bobbins – complete the changes.

The GSR750 MotoGP (which comes with anti-lock brakes as standard) has an on-the-road price of £8,135. That's £500 more than the regular version costs.

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