2016 Ford F-150 Special Service Vehicle

April 19, 2016, 3:49 pm

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It's available for any government or fleet operator to buy, but Ford reckons that most orders for the new F-150 Special Service Vehicle package will come from law enforcement agencies across North America.

Accordingly, the interior should be easier to clean. Vinyl flooring replaces the carpets, while the rear bench seat is covered with a similar material.

Up front, the F-150's usual centre console has been removed to provide space for a customised housing. A high-output 240 amp alternator is fitted to handle the electrical demand from any extra lights, communications equipment and other emergency gear.

The Special Service Vehicle option is only being offered with the existing XL trim grade. However, customers can specify either SuperCrew or SuperCab variants, plus there's a choice of either 3.5 litre V6 or 5.0 litre V8 engines and either rear- or four-wheel drive.

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Jeep launches four 75th Anniversary models

April 21, 2016, 5:56 pm

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Limited editions of the Renegade, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler have been introduced to mark Jeep's 75th birthday. All come with low-gloss bronze-finish wheels, unique exterior trim and special badges.

The Renegade 75th Anniversary, which costs from £26,795 on-the-road, features Jungle Green paintwork with either Black or Black and Sandstorm cloth upholstery.

Recon Green is the colour that Jeep has chosen for the £38,945 Cherokee 75th Anniversary. As well as leather-covered seats with dual-tone stitching, its specification includes a panoramic sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, a heated steering wheel and an 8.4” Uconnect infotainment touchscreen.

The Grand Cherokee 75th Anniversary wears the same shade. 20” wheels, black leather, adjustable air suspension and satellite navigation also appear on the standard equipment list.

Finally, the Wrangler 75th Anniversary has Sarge Green bodywork with a matching hard top. A Power Dome bonnet is fitted too, plus the interior gains Ombre Mesh leather, satellite navigation and an upgraded audio system.

The Renegade and Cherokee 75th Anniversary are available now. Anybody wanting a Grand Cherokee or Wrangler 75th Anniversary will have longer to wait, as those variants are due to arrive at dealers later this year. Accordingly, their prices have yet to be revealed.

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BMW introduces an M2-inspired bicycle

April 22, 2016, 3:17 pm

≫ Next: Holden Commodore Black Editions launched

≪ Previous: Jeep launches four 75th Anniversary models

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For anybody who owns an M2 Coupé (or wants to pretend that they do), BMW's Cruise M Bike Limited Edition could be the ultimate accessory.

Finished in the same Long Beach Blue metallic paintwork that's available for the car, it features a hydro-formed aluminium frame with smooth-welded seams and a bent 'bull neck' top tube.

Included in the bicycle's specification are 28” wheels, hydraulic disc brakes and thirty gears. Also fitted is a special plaque.

1,500 examples of the Cruise M Bike Limited Edition are going to be produced. That might not seem like very many, but each costs a steep €1,400 (approximately £1,100 or US$1,570 at current exchange rates).

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Holden Commodore Black Editions launched

April 24, 2016, 3:53 pm

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Holden's new Commodore Black Edition models mix some cosmetic tweaks with an assortment of extra equipment.

Offered as an option for the SV6 and SS trim grades, the Black package features red upholstery stitching, unique 18” alloy wheels, special badges and a black finish for the grille and door mirror caps.

Also included in the A$1,000 upgrade price are satellite navigation and a colour head-up display.

The Commodore Black Editions are available to order now in sedan, sportwagon and ute guises.

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Images © General Motors.

2016 Toyota Hilux specifications confirmed

April 29, 2016, 3:07 pm

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With deliveries due to commence in July, Toyota has announced UK specifications and pricing for its new Hilux pick-up.

Customers here will have a choice of Active, Icon, Invincible or Invincible X trim grades. Active is being offered in Single Cab, Extra Cab or Double Cab guises, but the other three variants come in Double Cab form only.

Across the range, standard equipment includes on-demand four-wheel drive, Bluetooth, heated door mirrors, a cooled front storage box and two airbags.

Icon adds some useful items. Among them are 17” alloy wheels, cruise control and a reversing camera. Also fitted are a 4.2” TFT multi-information display nestled between the main instruments, a DAB radio and the touchscreen-controlled Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system.

Invincible furthermore features an 18” wheel upgrade, chrome side bars with steps, LED headlights with automatic levelling, smart entry and start, automatic air conditioning and stability control.

Sitting at the top of the line-up is Invincible X. Leather upholstery, heated front seats and satellite navigation give the cabin a luxury ambience. Its exterior meanwhile boasts chrome details, front and rear parking sensors and a unique wheel design.

Every 2016 Hilux is powered by a 2.4 litre four-cylinder D-4D Global Diesel turbocharged engine.

With 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS), 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) and a six-speed manual gearbox, top speed is 106 mph (170 km/h) and the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint takes 13.2 seconds. Opt for a six-speed automatic transmission instead and that time falls to 12.8 seconds.

On-the-road prices start from £19,177 (excluding VAT). In a significant development, the warranty becomes a more generous five years / 100,000 miles.

Grade	Cab	Transmission	OTR (excl. VAT)
Active	Single Cab	Manual	£19,177
Active	Extra Cab	Manual	£20,735
Active	Double Cab	Manual	£21,510
Icon	Double Cab	Manual	£23,114
Icon	Double Cab	Automatic	£24,364
Invincible	Double Cab	Manual	£24,923
Invincible	Double Cab	Automatic	£26,173
Invincible X	Double Cab	Manual	£28,185
Invincible X	Double Cab	Automatic	£29,435

Prospective users who frequently haul a heavy trailer might want to hold off placing an order, though. That's because the Hilux's towing capacity is set to increase to 3.5 tonnes by the end of 2016 (doubtless to compete with the Isuzu D-Max). Until then, it's 3.2 tonnes.

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BMW’s M4 GTS becomes a DTM Safety Car

April 30, 2016, 1:44 pm

≫ Next: Toyota launches the two-tone 2016 Aygo x-cite

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Just 700 examples of the sold-out BMW M4 GTS are being built, so anybody who failed to secure one in the ordering rush might be peeved that it's being used as a Safety Car in the 2016 DTM.

The GTS is a logical choice for the role, though. Performance won't be an issue thanks to a 493 bhp (368 kW / 500 PS) 3.0 litre turbocharged engine (with fancy water injection), while the fitted Clubsport Package adds six-point harnesses, a roll bar and a fire extinguisher.

In fact, the conversion to DTM Safety Car only required the addition of a two-way radio, various LED warning lights and some body graphics.

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Toyota launches the two-tone 2016 Aygo x-cite

April 30, 2016, 1:57 pm

≫ Next: The BMW i3 gets a massive range boost

≪ Previous: BMW’s M4 GTS becomes a DTM Safety Car

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In a world where too many new cars are ordered with boring silver, grey or white paintwork, the latest Aygo x-cite is refreshingly different. An eye-catching Yellow Fizz and Bold Black colour scheme provides a look which is certainly going to stand out in traffic.

That theme continues inside. A yellow finish for the door panel inserts, air vent surrounds, seat side bolsters and floor mat edging contrasts with the predominantly black upholstery.

Included in the specification are 15” alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, air conditioning and Bluetooth. Also fitted is the x-touch touchscreen-controlled infotainment system that incorporates a reversing camera and a DAB radio.

Power comes from the usual 68 bhp (51 kW / 69 PS) 1.0 litre, three-cylinder petrol engine. It can be ordered with either a five-speed manual gearbox or the x-shift five-speed automated transmission.

Deliveries of the 2016 Aygo x-cite are due to begin in July, but prices have yet to be announced.

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The BMW i3 gets a massive range boost

May 2, 2016, 3:31 pm

≫ Next: V6-powered Volkswagen Amarok unveiled

≪ Previous: Toyota launches the two-tone 2016 Aygo x-cite

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Electric cars are evolving at a swift rate. Indeed, the current pace of change might actually harm sales in the short term: 'range anxiety' could be replaced by 'technology anxiety', meaning people are reluctant to purchase because they're convinced that something much better is about to be launched.

Evidence of this progress is provided by the BMW i3. It was originally introduced in late 2013 with a 21.6 kWh / 60 Ah lithium-ion battery and – for the pure electric version – a New European Driving Cycle range of up to 118 miles (190 kilometres).

Now a 33.2 kWh / 94 Ah model has been announced, which can be driven for 194 miles (312 kilometres) under NEDC conditions if 19” wheels are fitted. According to BMW, that equates to 124 miles (200 kilometres) in the real world, an improvement of more than 50% versus the 60 Ah's 80 miles (130 kilometres).

Crucially for packaging, the 94 Ah and 60 Ah battery packs have exactly the same dimensions. However, the former does attract a small weight penalty, plus recharge times are slightly longer.

Replenishing the i3 94 Ah from flat to 80% capacity takes 9 hours 30 minutes using a domestic 12 A / 240 V electricity supply, or 2 hours 45 minutes with an optional 16 A / 11 kW BMWi Wallbox. The quickest solution is a public DC rapid charger, which achieves the same task in 39 minutes.

Unaltered is the 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) electric motor that instantly produces 250 Nm (184 lb/ft) of torque. Similarly, the i3 Range Extender variants continue to employ a 37 bhp (28 kW / 38 PS) two-cylinder 647 cc petrol engine as well.

UK deliveries of the i3 94 Ah begin in July 2016. Interestingly, the i3 60 Ah remains in production, but it will no longer be offered here.

BMW i3 prices	UK	Germany
60 Ah	N/A	€34,950
94 Ah	£27,830	€36,150
60 Ah Range Extender	N/A	€39,950
94 Ah Range Extender	£30,980	€41,150
UK prices shown are on-the-road and net of a £4,500 Plug-in Car Grant.

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V6-powered Volkswagen Amarok unveiled

May 4, 2016, 8:47 am

≫ Next: Fiat confirms UK prices and specs for the Tipo

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After the dieselgate emissions scandal, it's perverse that Volkswagen has decided to replace the Amarok pick-up's 2.0 litre four-cylinder diesel engine with a 3.0 litre V6 unit. Extra displacement is always going to create a perception of more pollution.

Due to arrive at UK dealers before the end of this year, the new turbocharged diesel motor will be offered in three output and transmission combinations:

• 160 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS) with a manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive
• 201 bhp (150 kW / 204 PS) with a manual gearbox and 4Motion part-time all-wheel drive
• 221 bhp (165 kW / 224 PS) with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, permanent all-wheel drive and a Torsen differential

All are Euro 6-compliant. Although official performance and efficiency figures have yet to be revealed, Volkswagen expects the most powerful option to achieve 37.1 mpg (7.6 l/100km) on the combined cycle while pumping out 199 g/km of CO2. Given the firm's recent fiasco, nitrogen oxide levels surely deserve some scrutiny too.

To coincide with the V6's arrival, the Amarok is also getting a subtly redesigned front end, a new dashboard and upgraded seats. Furthermore, an increased towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes is promised for some variants.

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Fiat confirms UK prices and specs for the Tipo

May 6, 2016, 8:21 am

≫ Next: European-specification MG GS unveiled

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When UK sales begin in September, the new Fiat Tipo is going to cost from £12,995 to £19,995 without any cost options.

As previously announced, the four-door saloon version won't be coming here, but the five-door hatchback and Station Wagon estate will. Both are being offered with a choice of three trim grades (which Fiat has yet to name).

2017 Fiat Tipo Hatchback. Scroll down for more images.

All feature six airbags, a DAB radio, Bluetooth, a multi-function steering wheel and electric front windows. Estate models also boast electric rear windows plus a pair of roof bars.

Moving up to the mid-tier Tipo adds some useful equipment. Such components include a Uconnect touchscreen-based infotainment system with Live internet services, 16” alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, cruise control and rear electric windows.

The prospect of heavier depreciation might mean that buying the range-topping variant isn't a particularly wise move. Nevertheless, drivers who like plenty of kit in an unobtrusive car could be tempted: automatic lights and wipers, satellite navigation, a reversing camera, climate control and 17” wheels are among the items fitted as standard.

Fiat has now published performance and efficiency data for the three petrol and two diesel engines. As the price list below shows, their availability varies by trim grade.

1.4 litre 16v Fire petrol
Power	93 bhp (70 kW / 95 PS)
Torque	127 Nm (93 lb/ft)
Transmission	Six-speed manual
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	12.1 secs hatchback / 12.3 secs Station Wagon
Top speed	115 mph (185 km/h)
Combined cycle	49.6 mpg (5.7 l/100km)
CO2	132 g/km
1.6 litre e-TorQ petrol
Power	108 bhp (80 kW / 110 PS)
Torque	152 Nm (112 lb/ft)
Transmission	Six-speed automatic
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	11.5 secs hatchback / 11.7 secs Station Wagon
Top speed	119 mph (192 km/h)
Combined cycle	44.8 mpg (6.3 l/100km)
CO2	147 g/km
1.4 litre T-Jet turbo petrol
Power	118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS)
Torque	206 Nm (151 lb/ft)
Transmission	Six-speed manual
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	9.6 secs hatchback / 9.8 secs Station Wagon
Top speed	124 mph (200 km/h)
Combined cycle	47.1 mpg (6.0 l/100km)
CO2	139 g/km
1.3 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel
Power	93 bhp (70 kW / 95 PS)
Torque	200 Nm (147 lb/ft)
Transmission	Five-speed manual
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	12.0 secs hatchback / 12.3 secs Station Wagon
Top speed	112 mph (180 km/h)
Combined cycle	76.3 mpg (3.7 l/100km)
CO2	99 g/km
1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel
Power	118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS)
Torque	320 Nm (236 lb/ft)
Transmission	Six-speed manual (six-speed dual-clutch transmission optional)
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	9.8 secs hatchback / 10.1 secs Station Wagon
Top speed	124 mph (200 km/h)
Combined cycle	76.3 mpg (3.7 l/100km)
CO2	98 g/km

UK on-the-road prices
Hatchback
Trim	Engine	Transmission	Price
Entry	1.4 litre 16v Fire petrol	Manual	£12,995
Entry	1.3 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£14,995
Mid	1.4 litre 16v Fire petrol	Manual	£13,995
Mid	1.4 litre T-Jet turbo petrol	Manual	£14,995
Mid	1.6 litre e-TorQ petrol	Automatic	£15,995
Mid	1.3 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£15,995
Mid	1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£16,995
Mid	1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Dual-clutch	£17,995
High	1.4 litre 16v Fire petrol	Manual	£14,995
High	1.4 litre T-Jet turbo petrol	Manual	£15,995
High	1.6 litre e-TorQ petrol	Automatic	£16,995
High	1.3 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£16,995
High	1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£17,995
High	1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Dual-clutch	£18,995
Station Wagon
Trim	Engine	Transmission	Price
Entry	1.4 litre 16v Fire petrol	Manual	£13,995
Entry	1.3 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£15,995
Mid	1.4 litre 16v Fire petrol	Manual	£14,995
Mid	1.4 litre T-Jet turbo petrol	Manual	£15,995
Mid	1.6 litre e-TorQ petrol	Automatic	£16,995
Mid	1.3 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£16,995
Mid	1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£17,995
Mid	1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Dual-clutch	£18,995
High	1.4 litre 16v Fire petrol	Manual	£15,995
High	1.4 litre T-Jet turbo petrol	Manual	£16,995
High	1.6 litre e-TorQ petrol	Automatic	£17,995
High	1.3 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£17,995
High	1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Manual	£18,995
High	1.6 litre MultiJet II turbo diesel	Dual-clutch	£19,995

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European-specification MG GS unveiled

May 6, 2016, 3:46 pm

≫ Next: Toyota GT86 Shooting Brake concept revealed

≪ Previous: Fiat confirms UK prices and specs for the Tipo

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Following its launch in China a year ago, MG's GS crossover has now arrived in Europe.

Given the (sometimes misguided) popularity of diesel in this segment, introducing the GS with only a 1.5 litre turbocharged petrol engine is a bold move which could adversely affect sales.

The absence of full technical details makes assessing by how much rather difficult. However, we do know that buyers will be able to choose either a manual gearbox or an automatic dual-clutch transmission, so that might help to broaden the appeal of this MG.

Likewise, costs and specifications for the three planned trim grades remain a mystery, even though pre-orders are already being accepted.

According to Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing for MG, “Regarding how much this fantastic new car will cost, it will be consistent with our other models. We're proud of the fact our prices are transparent. When we say our cars are affordable, we mean it. The price structures are easy to understand and have no surprise additions.”

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Toyota GT86 Shooting Brake concept revealed

May 8, 2016, 2:48 pm

≫ Next: Latest Astra Sports Tourer at RETTmobil 2016

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Officially, there are no plans to produce the GT86 Shooting Brake, but doubtless that position could quickly change if reaction to the concept is favourable enough.

This modern-day interpretation of the Reliant Scimitar GTE was actually devised by Toyota Australia designers back in 2014. Now, though, it exists as a running prototype that was hand-built in Japan.

Compared to a regular GT86, the roof line has been lifted to increase both rear-seat headroom and luggage capacity. Certainly more practical then, however the result – which looks like a cross between a Ferrari FF and a Honda CR-Z – loses some aesthetic appeal.

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Latest Astra Sports Tourer at RETTmobil 2016

May 10, 2016, 3:19 pm

≫ Next: Notarzt BMW R 1200 RT at RETTmobil 2016

≪ Previous: Toyota GT86 Shooting Brake concept revealed

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An Astra Sports Tourer in Kommandowagen Feuerwehr guise is one of the vehicles that Opel will be displaying at this year's RETTmobil emergency equipment show.

As well as the requisite high-visibility body graphics, this fire brigade command car features a roof-mounted LED light bar. Extra blue LEDs are fitted to the front grille and on the underside of the tailgate, too.

Also part of the specification are a digital two-way radio and a public address system. Opel is going to begin accepting orders in the autumn.

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Images © General Motors.

Notarzt BMW R 1200 RT at RETTmobil 2016

May 10, 2016, 3:53 pm

≫ Next: Mini introduces eight Seven special editions

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BMW Motorrad has developed a special version of the R 1200 RT for notarzt (emergency doctor) duties. Intended to reduce response times in predominantly urban environments, it's going to debut at this week's RETTmobil 2016 emergency equipment trade show.

The motorcycle, which is finished in Glacier Silver paintwork, gains florescent red graphics and numerous flashing blue LED lights to visually alert other road users.

Also fitted are side-mounted protection bars, a public address system and an auxiliary battery that allows the extra electrical components to run even when the 1,170 cc twin-cylinder engine is switched off.

The most important items are at the rear. A pair of panniers contain medical gear, while a digital two-way radio set replaces the usual pillion seat.

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Mini introduces eight Seven special editions

May 11, 2016, 3:26 pm

≫ Next: The Abarth 595 gets a minor facelift

≪ Previous: Notarzt BMW R 1200 RT at RETTmobil 2016

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Consider anybody who buys a Mini Seven to be either a squanderer of cash or a mug. Sure, this limited edition boasts a unique and very tasteful colour scheme, but the premiums being charged are exorbitant.

Incredibly, the Cooper and Cooper D versions cost £3,060 more than the regular models which they're based on. The equivalent figure for the Cooper S and Cooper SD is £2,340.

So what does that extra outlay get?

On the outside, the Seven features Lapisluxury Blue paintwork with a contrasting Melting Silver finish on the roof and door mirror caps. Midnight Black, British Racing Green and Pepper White are available as alternatives for those customers who (inexplicably) might want their cars to look like any other Mini.

Door sill kickplates and side scuttle panels with 'Seven' logos on them are fitted, plus bespoke 17” alloy wheels are part of the specification too.

Front sports seats and part-leather upholstery enhance the interior. Malt Brown stitching matches the dashboard knee rolls and door armrests, while the trim pieces are Piano Black.

The Mini Seven is available to order now. If the basic invoice amount doesn't seem quite high enough, then it can be increased by the optional Seven Chili pack. This includes LED headlights, full leather, a Nappa-leather-covered multi-function steering wheel and cruise control.

Mini Seven – UK on-the-road prices
Cooper Seven 3-door Hatch	£18,545
Cooper D Seven 3-door Hatch	£19,695
Cooper S Seven 3-door Hatch	£21,180
Cooper SD Seven 3-door Hatch	£21,975
Cooper Seven 5-door Hatch	£19,145
Cooper D Seven 5-door Hatch	£20,295
Cooper S Seven 5-door Hatch	£21,780
Cooper SD Seven 5-door Hatch	£22,575

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The Abarth 595 gets a minor facelift

May 12, 2016, 3:40 pm

≫ Next: Silverado High Desert package launched

≪ Previous: Mini introduces eight Seven special editions

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Redesigned bumpers, new LED daytime running lights, revised alloy wheels and an updated paint selection identify the 2017 Abarth 595.

Inside, the instruments have been refreshed and a touchscreen-controlled Uconnect infotainment system comes as standard. The latest must-have performance-car affectation – a flat-bottom steering wheel – is now fitted too.

595, 595 Turismo and 595 Competizione versions will be offered in both hatchback and convertible guises.

All three grades are powered by a 1.4 litre turbocharged petrol engine that's mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. Outputs vary, though. The regular 595 has 143 bhp (106 kW / 145 PS), while the 595 Turismo and 595 Competizione boast 162 bhp (121 kW / 165 PS) and 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS) respectively.

In terms of chassis specification, the 595 Turismo's rear wheels feature Koni Frequency Selective Damping. The 595 Competizione also gains front-wheel FSD and a Brembo braking set-up with four-piston aluminium calipers, plus it can be ordered with an optional mechanical limited-slip differential.

Deliveries across Europe are due to begin next month. UK prices have yet to be announced.

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Silverado High Desert package launched

May 13, 2016, 3:45 pm

≫ Next: BMW Italia unveils the i8 Futurism Edition

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Secure storage is the USP of Chevrolet's new High Desert upgrade for the Silverado LT, LTZ, and High Country full-size pick-ups.

A lockable and water-resistant cargo system provides much improved usability and practicality. It comprises a three-piece hard tonneau cover, an internal full-width cargo divider and a couple of side compartments.

Furthermore, Magnetic Ride Control suspension can be ordered on High Country variants for the first time. Better body control is promised by this system, which continuously monitors the road surface and varies damping rates accordingly.

High Desert-equipped Silverado deliveries are due to begin in the autumn.

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Images © General Motors.

BMW Italia unveils the i8 Futurism Edition

May 17, 2016, 9:28 am

≫ Next: Lotus creates the Evora 400 Hethel Edition

≪ Previous: Silverado High Desert package launched

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Although the i8 Futurism Edition isn't officially a BMW Art Car, the end result deserves to be.

This project was actually instigated by BMW Italia to celebrate its fiftieth anniversary. Created in collaboration with Garage Italia Customs, the outcome is a special livery inspired by the painting 'Lampada ad Arco' by Italian Futurist artist Giacomo Balla.

The original work, which hangs in the Museum of Modern Art in New York, portrays an electric street lamp under moonlight. A stunning colour-burst motif certainly suits the modern form of the i8. Indeed, realising that Balla's avant-garde effect was conceived in 1909 might come as a surprise.

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Lotus creates the Evora 400 Hethel Edition

May 18, 2016, 11:38 am

≫ Next: Volvo 40.1 and 40.2 concept cars revealed

≪ Previous: BMW Italia unveils the i8 Futurism Edition

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In 1966, Lotus founder Colin Chapman decided to relocate his company to a new factory in Hethel, Norfolk. Now, the fiftieth anniversary of that move is being celebrated by a series of special cars.

The first is the aptly-named Evora 400 Hethel Edition. Available in Motorsport Black, Essex Blue or Racing Green heritage colour schemes, this model's enhanced specification includes unique bodywork stripes, silver-finish forged alloy wheels and red brake calipers.

Depending on the paint shade chosen, the interior features black leather, red leather or Alcantara upholstery.

As per the recently-updated regular Evora 400, power comes from a supercharged 3.5 litre V6 engine that develops 400 bhp (298 kW / 406 PS) with 410 Nm (302 lb/ft) of peak torque. Customers can specify either a six-speed manual gearbox or an optional six-speed automatic transmission.

Evora 400 Hethel Edition starting prices for the marque's major European markets are:

• UK - £75,500
• Germany - €100,500
• France - €101,350
• Italy - €105,400

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May 20, 2016, 3:52 am

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Volvo has announced that a new Compact Modular Architecture will underpin its next-generation '40' series cars. The just-unveiled 40.1 and 40.2 concepts – an SUV and a saloon respectively – offer a glimpse of how two members of the range might look.

According to Thomas Ingenlath, Volvo's Senior Vice President for Design, “They have an energy, a disruptive and engaging urban character that makes them stand out among the crowd.”

While the styling is intended to be eye-catching, some of the planned powertrains are more consequential.

As well as a pure electric version, Volvo is developing a Twin Engine plug-in hybrid. This combines a three-cylinder petrol engine, an electric motor, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive.

Both variants should be important models for Volvo, given the brand's objective to sell one million electrified cars by 2025. They're due to arrive at dealers during 2017.

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