Suzuki confirms Baleno UK specs and prices

May 24, 2016, 3:03 pm

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With the Swift, Suzuki already has a supermini contender. So the addition of the Indian-built Baleno to the range might seem like needless duplication.

Measuring 3,995 mm (157.3”) from bumper to bumper, the Baleno – which is available in five-door form only – is 145 mm (5.7”) longer than a Swift. That makes it about the same size as the Peugeot 208 and Renault Clio, two of the B-segment's largest current members.

A couple of trim grades keep the Baleno line-up very simple. Equipment levels appear generous enough though, as both variants boast satellite navigation, Bluetooth, a DAB radio, cruise control, HID headlights and 16” alloy wheels. MirrorLink and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration are supported too.

Moving up to the slightly posher SZ5 sees the standard air conditioning upgraded to climate control, plus the cruise control gains an adaptive function. Furthermore, a 4.2” central colour trip display, LED rear lights and Radar Brake Support are fitted as well.

In a similar vein, engine choice is pretty straightforward. A 1.0 litre, three-cylinder turbocharged Boosterjet petrol unit should account for the majority of sales.

Developing 110 bhp (82 kW / 111 PS) with 170 Nm (125 lb/ft) of peak torque, it delivers a fairly lively 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 11.4 seconds when paired with a manual gearbox. Efficiency is also acceptable, as evidenced by official combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions figures of 62.7 mpg (4.5 l/100km) and 105 g/km respectively.

More interesting (and better value) is the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) alternative.

This features a 89 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS) 1.2 litre four-cylinder Dualjet petrol engine, which is combined with a belt-driven Integrated Starter Generator to aid acceleration and provide regenerative braking. Electricity produced is stored in a compact lithium-ion battery pack.

70.6 mpg (4.0 l/100km) and 94 g/km on the combined cycle are impressive, but performance does suffer. The 0-62 mph sprint takes 12.3 seconds, for example, while an SHVS-equipped Baleno can only reach a top speed of 111 mph (178 km/h).

Deliveries are due to begin in the UK next month. The price list is another thing that clashes with the Swift...

Suzuki Baleno – UK prices
Grade	Engine	Transmission	Price
SZ-T	1.0 litre Boosterjet	5-speed manual	£12,999
SZ5	1.2 litre SHVS	5-speed manual	£13,499
SZ5	1.0 litre Boosterjet	5-speed manual	£13,999
SZ5	1.0 litre Boosterjet	6-speed automatic	£15,349

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2016 Suzuki Baleno first view

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2017 Peugeot 3008 first view

May 24, 2016, 3:27 pm

≫ Next: Students build the one-off Škoda Atero coupé

≪ Previous: Suzuki confirms Baleno UK specs and prices

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Overly fussy details don't do the new Peugeot 3008's styling any favours. It's as if the designers couldn't stop themselves from adding unnecessary flourishes in the pursuit of a distinctive look.

So this C-segment SUV isn't particularly attractive, but decent practicality is promised. Based on Peugeot's EMP2 platform, the 2017 3008 is fractionally longer than the previous model, although width and height remain the same.

Rear-seat passengers in particular benefit from more space, while luggage capacity is up by 90 litres to 520 litres. Despite the larger dimensions, overall weight is down by a useful 100 kg (220 lbs). Such a significant reduction should help both dynamics and efficiency.

Curiously for a so-called SUV, all-wheel drive isn't being offered. Instead, Peugeot has developed Advanced Grip Control. This combines mud and snow tyres, five traction control settings and hill descent control. Furthermore, ground clearance has been increased to 22 cm (8.7”).

Another obvious omission from the specification is any form of hybrid powertrain that would allow the 3008 to compete directly with the likes of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.

Consequently customers will be faced with a predictable array of petrol and diesel engines. All Euro 6-compliant, these range in size from 1.2 to 2.0 litres.

Inside, an 'i-Cockpit' sits behind a compact steering wheel. This is essentially a fully configurable 12.3” screen with five display modes that replaces traditional instruments. There's also an 8” capacitive colour touchscreen which dominates the centre console.

Two of the 3008's most intriguing features are actually on the options list. The Micro e-Kick and Peugeot e-Bike are an electrically-assisted scooter and an electrically-assisted bicycle respectively.

Promoted as car-complementary transport in urban environments (for just one person at a time, obviously), they can be housed in a bespoke boot-mounted docking station that also recharges their batteries when the 3008 is being driven.

The 2017 Peugeot 3008 is scheduled to make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show in October.

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Students build the one-off Škoda Atero coupé

May 25, 2016, 3:12 pm

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Elongated side windows give the Škoda Atero somewhat unusual proportions, but squint hard enough and they recall the two-door Rapid which first appeared in 1984.

That comparison is apt, because the Atero is actually a remodelled version of the current Rapid Spaceback. This unique coupé – created by a team from Škoda's vocational training school – is the brand's third annual 'student car' after 2014's CitiJet convertible and 2015's Funstar pick-up.

Although it might not be immediately apparent, the B-pillars have been moved rearwards to accommodate longer doors. A revised roof line is much more obvious, while modified bumpers, a set of 18” 'Turini' alloy wheels, extra bonnet vents and bespoke light clusters complete the transformation.

Performance should live up to those sportier looks, thanks to a 1.4 litre turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 123 bhp (92 kW / 125 PS) via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

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2017 Nissan GT-R Nismo revealed

May 27, 2016, 3:35 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Nissan GT-R prices announced

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Like the regular version, the latest Nissan GT-R Nismo is benefiting from some styling updates and a modernised dashboard.

The changes aren't just cosmetic, though. There's extra aerodynamic downforce, a stiffer body structure promises better dynamics and the redesigned front grille sucks in more air.

One component that hasn't been altered is the 3.8 litre twin-turbo V6 engine. It still develops 591 bhp (441 kW / 600 PS), which is delivered to all four wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Buyers will have a choice of five paintwork colours, but a UK price has yet to be confirmed.

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2017 Nissan GT-R prices announced

May 27, 2016, 3:36 pm

≫ Next: M3 30 Jahre Edition announced by BMW

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To go with its model-year upgrades, the 2017 Nissan GT-R is getting a price increase. The entry-level version, for example, will cost £1,945 more than before.

The revised range comprises three trim grades, plus a 'Track Edition engineered by Nismo' that features recalibrated Bilstein DampTronic shock absorbers and wider front wheels. Deliveries are due to begin in the autumn.

2017 Nissan GT-R – UK on-the-road prices
Grade	Price
Pure	£79,995
Recaro	£81,995
Prestige (with black leather upholstery)	£82,495
Prestige (with ivory, red or tan leather upholstery)	£83,495
Track Edition engineered by Nismo	£91,995

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Nissan creates an improved GT-R for 2017

M3 30 Jahre Edition announced by BMW

May 28, 2016, 2:33 pm

≫ Next: Peugeot reveals the L500 R HYbrid

≪ Previous: 2017 Nissan GT-R prices announced

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This year marks three decades since the original M3 was launched. To celebrate such a momentous anniversary, BMW has created the 30 Jahre Edition.

Naturally, it's based on the current M3 Saloon. A special 'M3 30 Jahre' script appears on the front-wing gills, the front-door sills and the front-seat head restraints. Furthermore, the door mirror caps, rear spoiler, rear diffuser and front splitter are all made from carbon fibre to complement the BMW Individual Frozen Silver metallic paintwork.

Just about every desirable option is fitted, too. Key among them are a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and the Competition Package. The latter includes a wheel upgrade from 19” to 20”, recalibrated settings for the adaptive suspension and active differential, bespoke driving modes, lightweight front seats and an 18 bhp (13 kW / 19 PS) power increase.

Consequently, the M3 30 Jahre Edition's 3.0 litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine develops 443 bhp (330 kW / 450 PS) with 550 Nm (405 lb/ft) of peak torque. That output results in a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 4.0 seconds, but top speed remains electronically-limited to 155 mph (250 km/h).

Carbon-ceramic brakes, LED headlights, a head-up display and two-tone Merino leather upholstery also form part of the enhanced specification.

Of course, there's a significant effect on price. Whereas a regular M3 Saloon can be bought for £56,605, the M3 30 Jahre Edition costs £82,675 on the road. Only thirty examples have been allocated to the UK though, so unsold stock is unlikely to be a problem.

Deliveries begin this summer.

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Peugeot reveals the L500 R HYbrid

May 30, 2016, 3:30 pm

≫ Next: The Zafira Tourer gets a facelift

≪ Previous: M3 30 Jahre Edition announced by BMW

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One hundred years ago today, Dario Resta won the sixth Indianapolis 500 race driving a Peugeot L45. The L500 R HYbrid – which is really just a fantasy concept – celebrates this particular centenary.

Designed purely as a competition car (but not intended to comply with any current motorsport regulations), the single-seat L500 R HYbrid is visually defined by some huge wheels and an ultra-low-profile cockpit.

As its name suggests, power is provided by a hybrid system that comprises a 266 bhp (198 kW / 270 PS) petrol engine plus an electric motor for each axle. Total output is rated at 493 bhp (367 kW / 500 PS) and Peugeot reckons the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint would take 2.5 seconds.

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The Zafira Tourer gets a facelift

May 31, 2016, 12:27 pm

≫ Next: Hyundai RM16 concept unveiled

≪ Previous: Peugeot reveals the L500 R HYbrid

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A broader grille, modified headlights (which can now house adaptive LED bulbs) and a redesigned bumper identify the latest Zafira Tourer. Together, they result in a front end that bears a noticeable similarity to the current Astra's.

Inside, a revised dashboard layout is the most obvious change. A lower-mounted central touchscreen and fewer buttons should mean better ergonomics, plus revised instruments are claimed to be clearer than before.

Improved connectivity is the real highlight, though. Standard across the range is OnStar, a communications suite that incorporates Automatic Crash Response, stolen vehicle assistance and a 4G/LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot.

Furthermore, two versions of the IntelliLink infotainment system are available. In R4.0 guise smartphone integration is possible via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, while the alternative Navi 950 adds satellite navigation that can utilise OnStar's Destination Download service.

The 2017 Zafira Tourer arrives at dealers this October.

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Images © General Motors.

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Hyundai RM16 concept unveiled

June 2, 2016, 3:45 pm

≫ Next: Ford Fiesta ST200 vs. its rivals

≪ Previous: The Zafira Tourer gets a facelift

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Like the RM14 and RM15 previously, the new RM16 concept is intended to build awareness of Hyundai's nascent 'N' performance sub-brand.

RM16, which has been revealed at the Busan International Motor Show in South Korea, is built around a lightweight aluminium spaceframe with carbon fibre reinforced plastic body panels. Among the components contributing to aerodynamic downforce and stability is an automatically-adjustable rear spoiler.

'RM' stands for Racing Midship, so naturally the concept's 2.0 litre supercharged petrol engine is mid-mounted. Its 295 bhp (220 kW / 300 PS) is delivered via a six-speed manual transmission and an electronic limited-slip differential.

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Ford Fiesta ST200 vs. its rivals

June 4, 2016, 3:09 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Kawasaki W800 Final Edition unveiled

≪ Previous: Hyundai RM16 concept unveiled

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For reasons unknown, Ford is stubbornly refusing to reintroduce the Fiesta RS. So, for the current-generation model at least, there probably won't be anything quicker than the ST200.

This new limited edition – which was first unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in March – is essentially a regular ST with various upgrades.

Engine improvements mean that power and torque are up by 10 per cent and 20 per cent respectively, for instance. Such increases are enough to secure membership of the hot supermini top echelon.

Other enhancements include a shorter final-drive ratio to boost mid-range acceleration, matt black 17” alloy wheels and red-painted brake calipers. Inside, Recaro front seats and unique part-leather upholstery are key elements of the standard specification.

However, since the ST200 costs £5,000 more than an entry-level Fiesta ST, most rivals appear to offer much better value for money.

Among those competitors are the Mini John Cooper Works Hatch, Peugeot 208 GTi, Renault Clio Renaultsport Nav 200, Vauxhall Corsa VXR and Volkswagen Polo GTI.

Here's how the Fiesta ST200 compares to them:

Model	Price
Fiesta ST200	£22,745
JCW Hatch	£23,050
208 GTi	£19,515 (GTi Prestige: £20,365)
Clio R.S. Nav 200	£20,445
Corsa VXR	£18,475
Polo GTI	£19,125
Powertrain	Engine	Transmission
Fiesta ST200	1.6 litre petrol turbo	6-speed manual
JCW Hatch	2.0 litre petrol turbo	6-speed manual
208 GTi	1.6 litre petrol turbo	6-speed manual
Clio R.S. Nav 200	1.6 litre petrol turbo	6-speed dual-clutch auto
Corsa VXR	1.6 litre petrol turbo	6-speed manual
Polo GTI	1.8 litre petrol turbo	6-speed manual
Output	Power	Torque
Fiesta ST200	197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS)	290 Nm (214 lb/ft)
	212 bhp (158 kW / 215 PS)*	320 Nm (236 lb/ft)*
JCW Hatch	227 bhp (170 kW / 231 PS)	320 Nm (236 lb/ft)
208 GTi	205 bhp (153 kW / 208 PS)	300 Nm (221 lb/ft)
Clio R.S. Nav 200	197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS)	260 Nm (191 lb/ft)
Corsa VXR	202 bhp (151 kW / 205 PS)	245 Nm (180 lb/ft)**
Polo GTI	189 bhp (141 kW / 192 PS)	320 Nm (236 lb/ft)
*Additional output available for up to twenty seconds using transient overboost.
**280 Nm (206 lb/ft) available for up to five seconds using overboost.
Performance	0-62 mph (100 km/h)	Top speed
Fiesta ST200	6.7 secs	143 mph (230 km/h)
JCW Hatch	6.3 secs	152 mph (245 km/h)
208 GTi	6.5 secs	143 mph (230 km/h)
Clio R.S. Nav 200	6.7 secs	146 mph (235 km/h)
Corsa VXR	6.8 secs	143 mph (230 km/h)
Polo GTI	6.7 secs	146 mph (235 km/h)
Efficiency	Combined fuel consumption	CO2
Fiesta ST200	46.3 mpg (6.1 l/100km)	140 g/km
JCW Hatch	42.2 mpg (6.7 l/100km)	125 g/km
208 GTi	52.3 mpg (5.4 l/100km)	125 g/km
Clio R.S. Nav 200	44.8 mpg (6.3 l/100km)	144 g/km
Corsa VXR	37.7 mpg (7.5 l/100km)	174 g/km
Polo GTI	47.1 mpg (6.0 l/100km)	139 g/km

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2017 Kawasaki W800 Final Edition unveiled

June 5, 2016, 3:24 pm

≫ Next: Return of the Renault Twingo GT

≪ Previous: Ford Fiesta ST200 vs. its rivals

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From the start of next year, dealers won't be allowed to sell new motorcycles that don't comply with Euro 4 emissions regulations. One victim of the stricter legislation is the Kawasaki W800.

To mark the model's imminent demise, a Final Edition version has been announced. It's distinguished by a suitably retro Candy Brown and Candy Sunset Orange colour scheme.

Everything else remains unchanged, including the offending 773 cc, air-cooled, twin-cylinder engine that still produces 47 bhp (35 kW / 48 PS).

According to Morihiro Ikoma, Corporate Planning Director for Kawasaki Motors Europe: “It's never easy to say goodbye to an old friend, especially one as iconic as the W800. Paying homage to the W series with this Final Edition is therefore a truly fitting end to a long and successful line of machines.”

Availability of the W800 Final Edition will be limited, but Kawasaki has yet to confirm a UK price.

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Return of the Renault Twingo GT

June 6, 2016, 3:16 pm

≫ Next: Fiat 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5?

≪ Previous: 2017 Kawasaki W800 Final Edition unveiled

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A quicker Twingo is coming. Called GT, it resurrects a trim grade that was first seen on the previous-generation model.

This latest incarnation features a rear-mounted 898 cc turbocharged petrol engine with revised mapping and an altered air intake system.

Consequently, the rear-wheel drive Twingo GT boasts an increased output of 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS). Peak torque meanwhile becomes 170 Nm (125 lb/ft).

There are changes to the manual transmission's gear ratios too, but performance figures have yet to be released.

To complement those powertrain upgrades, the GT also gets bespoke suspension, steering and electronic stability program settings. Other unique elements include a set of 17” wheels, twin exhaust pipes, aluminium pedals and an alloy gear lever knob.

The 2017 Twingo GT is due to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed later this month. UK deliveries will then begin in the winter.

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Fiat 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5?

June 8, 2016, 3:30 pm

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≪ Previous: Return of the Renault Twingo GT

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As the new Fiat 124 Spider shares its underpinnings with the Mazda MX-5, anybody considering buying one should definitely investigate the Japanese alternative before signing an order form.

Apart from some price and specification variations, there are two key differences between the two models: styling and engines.

The 124 Spider's flagrantly retro looks do a decent job of evoking the original 1966 model. By contrast, the fourth-generation MX-5 adopts the much more modern 'Kodo - Soul of Motion' design language. So, as far as this particular criterion is concerned, personal taste should be the decider.

Powering the rear-wheel drive Fiat is a 1.4 litre MultiAir turbocharged motor that delivers 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) via a six-speed manual gearbox. If any prospective purchasers want a higher output, then they'll have to wait for the 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) Abarth 124 Spider to arrive.

By contrast, Mazda offers a normally-aspirated 129 bhp (96 kW / 131 PS) 1.5 litre unit which is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. There’s also a 157 bhp (117 kW / 160 PS) 2.0 litre option to rival the aforementioned Abarth version.

According to official figures, the 124 Spider is a quicker car, but the MX-5 promises marginally better efficiency.

Model	Fiat 124 Spider	Mazda MX-5
Engine	1,368 cc, turbocharged, four cylinders	1,496 cc, normally-aspirated, four cylinders
Power	138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS)	129 bhp (96 kW / 131 PS)
Torque	240 Nm (177 lb/ft)	150 Nm (110 lb/ft)
0-62 mph	7.5 secs	8.3 secs
Top speed	134 mph (215 km/h)	127 mph (205 km/h)
Combined cycle	44.1 mpg (6.4 l/100km)	47.1 mpg (6.0 l/100km)
CO2	148 g/km	139 g/km

In terms of cost, the MX-5 1.5i SE is a comparative bargain at £18,495 on the road.

Realistically, the SE-L is a closer match for the similarly-priced entry-level 124 Spider Classica, even though climate control (instead of manual air conditioning), a 7” colour touchscreen and a DAB radio are included on the Mazda's slightly superior standard equipment list.

At the opposite end of each range, the 124 Spider Lusso Plus carries a premium of £500 versus the MX-5 1.5i Sport Nav.

Both come with luxuries such as satellite navigation, keyless entry, LED headlights, automatic lights and wipers, leather upholstery, heated seats and a Bose audio system. The dearer Fiat also boasts 17” rather than 16” alloy wheels, keyless start and a rear-view camera in lieu of reversing sensors, so essentially that's what the extra outlay is paying for.

MX-5 1.5i SE	£18,495
124 Spider Classica	£19,545
MX-5 1.5i SE-L	£19,595
MX-5 1.5i SE-L Nav	£20,195
MX-5 1.5i Sport	£22,195
124 Spider Lusso	£22,295
MX-5 1.5i Sport Nav	£22,795
124 Spider Lusso Plus	£23,295

Choosing between these two roadsters is going to be a tough task.

Assuming brand loyalty and dealer proximity aren't issues, then the Mazda MX-5 has a small advantage based on value for money. Conversely, the Fiat 124 Spider has the edge in terms of performance.

However, they're narrow distinctions that could well be forgotten after a test drive of either contender.

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BMW Motorrad exhibits the Concept Lac Rose

June 9, 2016, 3:28 pm

≫ Next: BrandZ 2016 names its top ten car brands

≪ Previous: Fiat 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5?

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For this year's Wheels and Waves Festival – which is currently taking place near Biarritz in France – BMW has created a one-off custom bike.

Named Concept Lac Rose after a stage of the Paris-Dakar Rally, its look is inspired by the BMW that won the event in 1985.

Based on an R nineT, numerous off-road features are fitted. These include a high front mudguard, long-travel suspension, knobbly tyres, an oil cooler protector and a bash plate beneath the twin-cylinder boxer engine.

A large-capacity fuel tank and bespoke valve covers are also part of the specification. A tall (but narrow) windshield, hand guards and a thickly-padded single seat complete the transformation.

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BrandZ 2016 names its top ten car brands

June 11, 2016, 2:56 pm

≫ Next: Nissan is developing a bio-ethanol fuel cell

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As far as the car category is concerned, there are a couple of telling developments in this year's WPP / Millward Brown BrandZ™ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands survey.

Firstly, Volkswagen has dropped out of the top ten. Clearly this is a consequence of the recent 'dieselgate' emissions-rigging scandal, which also affected sister marque Audi (albeit to a lesser extent). Conversely, Porsche – another member of the Volkswagen Group – entered the list in ninth place.

Secondly, Tesla appears in the top ten for the first time. It scored well on 'Brand Experience', 'Difference' and 'Brand Purpose' thanks to the performance of the firm's pure-electric vehicles, their original features and an innovative sales model that eschews third-party franchised dealers.

Disruptive Tesla demonstrates that emerging car brands

can become more valuable than their established rivals.

Not much else has changed. Indeed, the leading seven manufacturers are identical to last year, so Toyota remains in first position ahead of BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

BrandZ™ Top 10 Most Valuable Global Car Brands 2016
Ranking: Cars	Brand	Brand Value (US$ M)	Change	Ranking: Overall Top 100
1	Toyota	29,501	+2%	28
2	BMW	26,837	+2%	33
3	Mercedes-Benz	22,708	+4%	39
4	Honda	13,195	-1%	74
5	Ford	13,084	0%	75
6	Nissan	11,479	+1%	92
7	Audi	9,497	-6%	N/A
8	Land Rover	4,732	-5%	N/A
9	Porsche	4,438	N/A	N/A
10	Tesla	4,436	N/A	N/A

In the overall league, Google is now ranked number one following a massive 32% brand-value increase. As a result, Apple has been relegated to runner-up status, but Microsoft is still in third spot.

Related post:
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Nissan is developing a bio-ethanol fuel cell

June 14, 2016, 3:41 pm

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Hydrogen fuel cells are seen by many as an ideal replacement for internal combustion engines. However, the technology has some big hurdles to overcome, not least how to produce pure hydrogen on a cost-effective basis and then distribute it via a refuelling infrastructure.

Those obstacles have prompted Nissan to begin work on an 'e-Bio' solid oxide fuel cell. This uses bio-ethanol as a primary fuel, which is a fermented compound of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen sourced from crops such as corn or sugar cane.

The system delivers bio-ethanol from an on-board tank to a reformer unit, where hydrogen is extracted. Then, after being fed into a fuel cell, the hydrogen has an electromechanical reaction with atmospheric oxygen that generates electricity. A battery and electric motors complete the powertrain.

Bio-ethanol isn't necessarily a perfect solution, though. In particular, critics decry the huge area of arable land required to grow sufficient quantities of biomass.

Nissan hasn't said when a vehicle featuring its bio-ethanol fuel cell might be launched.

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2017 BTCC calender announced

June 15, 2016, 3:26 pm

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We're not even halfway through the 2016 season, but series organiser TOCA has already revealed the schedule for next year's British Touring Car Championship.

Thanks to the continued success of the existing format, the list of circuits and the order in which they'll be visited remains unaltered. As is the case currently, each round is set to comprise three races.

There are a couple of minor timing changes, though. The Oulton Park meeting is going to take place two weeks earlier, thereby avoiding an unnecessary month-long springtime break. Accordingly, the following event at Croft is being brought forward by a week.

Perhaps surprisingly, Thruxton retains its early May slot. Given the puncture issues seen last month at the Hampshire track – a result of high speeds, an abrasive surface and hot weather – a swap with Donington Park or one of the Brands Hatch dates would've been a sensible move.

2017 British Touring Car Championship – Calendar
Date	Circuit	Location
2 April	Brands Hatch (Indy circuit)	Nr. Dartford, Kent
16 April	Donington Park	Nr. Castle Donington, Leicestershire
7 May	Thruxton	Nr. Andover, Hampshire
21 May	Oulton Park	Nr. Tarporley, Cheshire
11 June	Croft	Nr. Darlington, North Yorkshire
30 July	Snetterton	Nr. Attleborough, Norfolk
13 August	Knockhill	Nr. Dunfermline, Fife
27 August	Rockingham	Nr. Corby, Northamptonshire
17 September	Silverstone	Nr. Towcester, Northamptonshire
1 October	Brands Hatch (Grand Prix circuit)	Nr. Dartford, Kent
Dates shown are the Sunday of each race weekend.

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Abarth 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5?

June 17, 2016, 3:42 pm

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Having already compared the Fiat 124 Spider and 1.5 litre Mazda MX-5 on performance, specification and price, it's now time to examine the more powerful Abarth 124 Spider and 2.0 litre Mazda MX-5.

Beneath distinctive skins, both roadsters share a common rear-wheel drive structure. However, don't think that they're basically the same car, because their engines are very different.

In fact, as the official figures below show, the turbocharged Abarth easily beats the normally-aspirated Mazda on pace and efficiency. Curiously, only the 124 Spider can be ordered with an automatic transmission.

Model	Abarth 124 Spider		Mazda MX-5
Engine	1,368 cc, turbocharged, four cylinders		1,998 cc, normally-aspirated, four cylinders
Transmission	6-speed manual	6-speed automatic	6-speed manual
Power	167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS)		157 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS)
Torque	250 Nm (184 lb/ft)		200 Nm (147 lb/ft)
0-62 mph	6.8 secs	6.9 secs	7.3 secs
Top speed	144 mph (232 km/h)	142 mph (228 km/h)	133 mph (214 km/h)
Combined cycle	44.1 mpg (6.4 l/100km)	42.8 mpg (6.6 l/100km)	40.9 mpg (6.9 l/100km)
CO2	148 g/km	153 g/km	161 g/km

The MX-5 has a huge advantage when matters turn to price, though. Actually, there's a strong case for arguing that these two models aren't really direct competitors, as the cheapest Abarth costs £5,300 more than the most expensive Mazda.

Unfortunately the 124 Spider doesn't have a longer equipment list to compensate.

Yes, 17” alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential and Bilstein dampers come as standard, plus the interior features Bluetooth, a DAB radio, a Bose audio system and cruise control. All of those items are fitted to the MX-5 Sport Recaro too, but it also boasts several other trinkets including satellite navigation.

MX-5 2.0i SE-L	£20,495
MX-5 2.0i SE-L Nav	£21,095
MX-5 2.0i Sport	£23,095
MX-5 2.0i Sport Nav	£23,695
MX-5 2.0i Sport Recaro	£24,295
124 Spider Manual	£29,565
124 Spider Automatic	£31,605

So deciding between these two nominal rivals is first and foremost a question of budget. If that's not a factor, then a 124 Spider is for anybody who thinks that the MX-5 won't be quick enough for them. Conversely, the Mazda clearly wins on value for money.

Related posts:
Fiat 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5?
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Mazda MX-5 Sport Recaro limited edition

Unique Jeep Renegade Hell’s Revenge revealed

June 18, 2016, 3:04 pm

≫ Next: Mopar '16 Ram Rebel limited edition launched

≪ Previous: Abarth 124 Spider or Mazda MX-5?

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Jeep, Harley-Davidson and Garage Italia Customs have collaborated to create the one-off Renegade Hell's Revenge show car.

Devised specially for the 25th European Harley Owners Group Rally – which is currently taking place in Portoroz, Slovenia – it boasts a classic colour scheme of painted flames against a black background.

Other features include LED spotlights mounted at the bottom of the A-pillars, a skid plate, raised suspension and nine-spoke alloy wheels shod with all-terrain BF Goodrich tyres.

Inside, the flame motif is replicated on the dashboard. Also adding to the biker-inspired theme are the seats, which are covered in a mix of Nappa leather and black denim.

There aren't any mechanical modifications, but power comes from a 2.0 litre turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) via a nine-speed automatic transmission.

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Mopar '16 Ram Rebel limited edition launched

June 19, 2016, 3:12 pm

≫ Next: UK prices for the Fiat Fullback announced

≪ Previous: Unique Jeep Renegade Hell’s Revenge revealed

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Just 500 examples of the '16 Ram Rebel are going to be built for sale across Canada and the United States. Based on the existing 1500 Rebel Crew Cab 4x4 full-size pick-up, it features numerous Mopar custom parts.

Among them are sill guards, larger wheel-arch flares and unique bodywork graphics. Furthermore, the 17” wheels and front-bumper skid plate gain a black finish.

Also available is a range of optional dealer-fit accessories, which includes a cat-back exhaust system and a cold air intake for the 5.7 litre Hemi V8 engine.

When deliveries begin later this summer, customers will have a choice of Brilliant Black or two-tone Flame Red / Brilliant Black paintwork. The Mopar '16 Ram Rebel costs from $52,460 in the United States.

Related posts:
2017 Ram Power Wagon revealed
2015 Ram 1500 Rebel launched