Holden’s Colorado 7 becomes the Trailblazer

September 12, 2016, 2:13 pm

≫ Next: C Evolution electric scooter upgraded for 2017

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For 2017, the Holden Colorado 7 is getting a facelift and a new name. It's now known as Trailblazer, which seems like a marketing tactic to distance the SUV from the closely-related Colorado pick-up.

A successfully redesigned front end is the most visible sign of the updates. However, there are also a few mechanical modifications that are just as important.

In an effort to provide a better driving experience and more refinement, the mounts for the 2.8 litre Duramax turbo-diesel engine, six-speed automatic transmission and body have all been upgraded. In addition, a quicker steering rack and variable electronic assistance should improve responsiveness.

Customers will have a choice of LT or LTZ trim grades. Both come as standard with a rear reversing camera, LED daytime running lights and a MyLink infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Among the many extra items fitted to the LTZ are leather upholstery, heated front seats, touchscreen-controlled satellite navigation, climate control, 18” alloy wheels, power-folding door mirrors and remote starting. This version also boasts tyre pressure monitoring, lane departure warning, forward collision alert, side blind zone alert and rear cross traffic alert.

In Australia, sales of the 2017 Trailblazer begin in October. Prices are largely unchanged.

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Images © General Motors.

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C Evolution electric scooter upgraded for 2017

September 16, 2016, 9:11 am

≫ Next: Better connectivity for the 2017 Fiat Panda

≪ Previous: Holden’s Colorado 7 becomes the Trailblazer

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BMW has announced some worthwhile changes for its C Evolution pure-electric scooter.

Key among them is the arrival of an improved lithium-ion battery pack, which sees capacity rise from 60 Ah to 94 Ah. Furthermore, two versions of the C Evolution are now being offered.

The C Evolution European, unsurprisingly, will only be available in Europe. Riders with A1 category driving licences are the main target audience.

Alternatively, the C Evolution Long Range boasts extra power and performance and, as that name suggests, more range. BMW plans to sell this model in China, Japan, Russia, South Korea and the United States, as well as most major European markets.

Here's how they compare:

C Evolution	European	Long Range
Continuous output	15 bhp (11 kW / 15 PS)	25 bhp (19 kW / 26 PS)
Maximum output	47 bhp (35 kW / 48 PS)
Peak torque	72 Nm (53 lb/ft)
Maximum range	62 miles (100 km)	99 miles (160 km)
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	7.0 secs	6.8 secs
Top speed	74 mph (120 km/h)	80 mph (129 km/h)

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Better connectivity for the 2017 Fiat Panda

September 21, 2016, 10:28 am

≫ Next: Honda establishes a new niche with the X-ADV

≪ Previous: C Evolution electric scooter upgraded for 2017

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Most 2017 model-year changes to the Fiat Panda belong in the “blink and you'll miss them” category. There are some refreshed wheel and fabric designs, two additional paint colours and a new steering wheel, but they aren't especially noticeable.

Much more significant is the arrival of the Uconnect infotainment system, which is going to be available on certain Panda trim grades for the first time.

Able to interact with both Android and iOS smartphones via a special app, its functions include Bluetooth audio streaming. What's more, access to various online services such as satellite navigation and car finding is possible.

UK prices and an on-sale date for the 2017 Fiat Panda have yet to be announced.

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Honda establishes a new niche with the X-ADV

September 21, 2016, 10:35 am

≫ Next: Alfa Romeo Giulia Super and Veloce confirmed

≪ Previous: Better connectivity for the 2017 Fiat Panda

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Witnessing the arrival of a genuinely different type of motorcycle is a rare event. So the launch of Honda's new X-ADV (and, crucially, how customers react) should get plenty of attention.

Based on last year's City Adventure concept, it's essentially an adventure-style bike that features a 745 cc parallel-twin engine from the NC750 range and, unusually for this category, a dual-clutch transmission.

Intended to be an all-rounder, the X-ADV comes with long-travel suspension and a five-stage adjustable windscreen. An upright riding position and built-in helmet storage further add to the practicality proposition.

The 2017 Honda X-ADV is due to be unveiled at the EICMA show in November. More technical details will be released prior to the model's debut.

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Alfa Romeo Giulia Super and Veloce confirmed

September 21, 2016, 3:43 pm

≫ Next: Hyundai H350 Fuel Cell Concept unveiled

≪ Previous: Honda establishes a new niche with the X-ADV

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Lots of attention has been paid to the range-topping Giulia Quadrifoglio since it was first revealed last year. However, most buyers of Alfa Romeo's new compact sports saloon are invariably going to choose humbler trim grades such as the Super and Veloce, which will debut at this month's Paris International Motor Show.

The initial engine line-up for the rear-wheel drive Giulia Super comprises a 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS) 2.2 litre turbo-diesel in either regular or 'Advanced Efficiency' forms, plus a 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol. All three options come mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

According to Alfa Romeo, the AE package brings a slightly reduced ride height, unique alloy wheels shod with low rolling resistance tyres, an air-water intercooler, a low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation valve, extra cooling and revised gear ratios. The claimed result is 67.2 mpg (4.2 l/100km) and carbon dioxide emissions of 99 g/km on the combined cycle, as well as a very respectable 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 7.2 seconds.

As befits its name, the Giulia Veloce shouldn't be short of pace. A 2.0 litre, turbocharged, direct-injection, four-cylinder petrol unit that produces 276 bhp (205 kW / 280 PS) with 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque is the obvious pick for enthusiastic drivers. There's also a 207 bhp (154 kW / 210 PS) 2.2 litre diesel alternative, though.

Again, the only available gearbox is an eight-speed automatic, but Veloce versions deliver their output via a Q4 all-wheel drive system. Also on the standard equipment list are xenon headlights, cruise control, sports seats, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control and an enhanced infotainment set-up.

UK prices and final specifications haven't been announced yet.

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Hyundai H350 Fuel Cell Concept unveiled

September 22, 2016, 3:06 pm

≫ Next: Nissan launches the NV300 (at last)

≪ Previous: Alfa Romeo Giulia Super and Veloce confirmed

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One of the most intriguing vans at this year’s IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover is Hyundai’s H350 Fuel Cell Concept.

Four under-floor tanks together store 175 litres (38 gallons) of compressed hydrogen at a pressure of 700 bar. They feed into a fuel cell stack, which converts the gas into electricity and stores it in a 24 kW lithium-polymer battery pack.

That energy then flows via an inverter to a 134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS) electric motor. Speeds of up to 93 mph (150 km/h) are said to be possible, so a lack of performance shouldn’t be an issue.

Zero tailpipe emissions (apart from water) and an absence of engine noise mean that a hydrogen-powered H350 would be ideal for multi-drop operations, especially in urban areas.

What’s more, refuelling takes just four minutes (provided that a hydrogen filling station can be found, of course) and claimed range is 262 miles (422 kilometres).

Hyundai has yet to confirm a production version, though.

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Nissan launches the NV300 (at last)

September 23, 2016, 3:40 pm

≫ Next: 2017 E-Class All-Terrain revealed

≪ Previous: Hyundai H350 Fuel Cell Concept unveiled

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Quite why Nissan has taken so long to introduce its NV300 is a mystery. After all, the virtually identical Vauxhall / Opel Vivaro was first revealed over two years ago and, since then, the virtually identical Renault Trafic and Fiat Talento have arrived.

Whatever the reasons, this Primastar replacement holds few surprises. The range comprises a panel van (available in H1 or H2 height configurations), a six-seat crew van and a nine-seat combi. All can be ordered in either L1 or L2 lengths.

Furthermore, there's also a floor cab version. Intended to accept bodywork from third-party suppliers, it's being offered in longer L2 guise only.

Power is provided by a Euro 6-compliant 1.6 litre turbocharged diesel engine, which uses an Adblue-based selective catalytic reduction system to cut down on NOx emissions.

Customers will be able to specify 94 bhp (70 kW / 95 PS), 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS), 123 bhp (92 kW / 125 PS) or 143 bhp (106 kW / 145 PS) outputs that are delivered via a six-speed manual transmission.

Economy is claimed to be better than the Primastar's. The 123 bhp panel van, for example, achieves 47.8 mpg (5.9 l/100km) and a CO2 figure of 155 g/km on the combined cycle.

That's not the only potential operating cost saving, though. Service intervals are two years / 40,000 kilometres (28,450 miles), while the factory warranty is a class-leading five years / 160,000 kilometres (99,420 miles).

NV300 production is going to take place at the same Sandouville plant in France that already builds the Renault Trafic. Sales are due to begin across Europe during November.

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2017 E-Class All-Terrain revealed

September 24, 2016, 10:33 am

≫ Next: Nissan NP300 Navara EnGuard Concept

≪ Previous: Nissan launches the NV300 (at last)

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Over the past few years, many people who traditionally bought large estate cars have deserted the segment in favour of crossovers and SUVs. In an effort to entice some of them back, Mercedes-Benz has launched the E-Class All-Terrain.

This new arrival is clearly going to compete against the Audi A6 Allroad Quattro for sales. It follows a very similar formula, too: take a regular estate, add some strategically-placed protective bodywork cladding, raise the ride height and fit an all-wheel drive system.

Initially, the E-Class All-Terrain is being produced in E 220 d 4Matic guise only. That means power comes from a 1,950 cc, four-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine which delivers 191 bhp (143 kW / 194 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of torque via a nine-speed automatic transmission. For anybody requiring more output, a six-cylinder diesel alternative is due later.

UK prices and final specifications for the E-Class All-Terrain will be announced early next year. The first customer deliveries are then expected to begin in the spring.

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Nissan NP300 Navara EnGuard Concept

September 25, 2016, 12:08 pm

≫ Next: UK prices for the Infiniti Q60 announced

≪ Previous: 2017 E-Class All-Terrain revealed

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Nissan is describing the just-unveiled EnGuard Concept as “the ultimate all-terrain rescue pick-up”.

Based on the existing NP300 Navara Tekna Double Cab, identifying features comprise unique wheel arch extensions, side steps, body graphics and a roof-mounted moulding that houses an array of extra lights. Also fitted is a fully-adjustable off-road suspension set-up which raises the ride height by 50 mm (2”).

Emergency kit includes a pair of portable 2 kW seven-module battery packs. Intended to take the place of petrol-powered generators, these are carried in special docking stations and they can be recharged via the Navara's alternator. What's more, a pair of large built-in drawers can carry additional pieces of equipment.

A concealed pop-up screen in the load-bed side completes the modifications. It's used to display images relayed from the EnGuard's DJI Phantom 4 drone, which can fly for up to half an hour at altitudes approaching 20,000 feet (around 6,000 metres).

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UK prices for the Infiniti Q60 announced

September 26, 2016, 3:30 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross unveiled

≪ Previous: Nissan NP300 Navara EnGuard Concept

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Next month will see the arrival of a new coupé from Infiniti. The Q60, which is being offered in a choice of four trim grades, is going to compete against the BMW 4 Series and Audi A5.

Standard equipment on all Q60 variants includes 19” alloy wheels, LED headlights, leather upholstery, heated and power-adjustable front seats, a rear-view camera, cruise control and lane departure warning. Moving up the range adds extra items such as a 13-speaker Bose audio system, satellite navigation and an around-view monitor.

The entry-level engine is a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol unit. Its 208 bhp (155 kW / 211 PS) and 350 Nm (258 lb/ft) of torque are sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission.

That output allows the Q60 to accelerate from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.3 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 146 mph (235 km/h). 41.5 mpg (6.8 l/100km) plus CO2 emissions of 156 g/km on the combined cycle aren't too bad, either.

Alternatively, a twin-turbo 3.0 litre petrol V6 delivers 400 bhp (298 kW / 405 PS) and 475 Nm (350 lb/ft). Combined with a seven-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive, the predictable result is better performance but worse efficiency: 0-62 mph in 5.0 seconds, a 155 mph (250 km/h) top speed, 31.0 mpg (9.1 l/100km) and 208 g/km.

The lack of a diesel option is bound to affect sales, so expect the Infiniti Q60 to be a rare sight on UK roads.

Model	UK on-the-road price
Q60 Premium 2.0t	£33,990
Q60 Premium Tech 2.0t	£37,690
Q60S Sport 2.0t	£34,990
Q60S Sport 3.0t AWD	£42,990
Q60S Sport Tech 2.0t	£38,690
Q60S Sport Tech 3.0t AWD	£46,690

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2017 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross unveiled

September 27, 2016, 12:20 pm

≫ Next: Fuso announces limited eCanter production

≪ Previous: UK prices for the Infiniti Q60 announced

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Adding a huge chrome grille to the SX4 S-Cross has made Suzuki’s compact crossover a lot less anonymous.

That’s not the extent of the model’s just-announced facelift, though. The headlights, bumpers and taillights have been redesigned, plus the ride height is up by 15 mm (0.6”) to 180 mm (7.1”). Furthermore, the interior gains a soft-touch dashboard pad and updated seat fabrics.

In what is a major change, the petrol engine selection now consists of 1.0 litre three-cylinder and 1.4 litre four-cylinder Boosterjet turbocharged units.

The former produces 109 bhp (82 kW / 111 PS) with 170 Nm (125 lb/ft) of torque, while the latter’s corresponding figures are 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) and 220 Nm (162 lb/ft).

Alternatively, the 1.6 litre DDiS diesel motor continues to be available. Developing 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS) and 320 Nm (236 lb/ft), this option achieves up to 68.8 mpg (4.1 l/100km) on the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 106 g/km.

As before, either manual or automatic transmissions can be specified, and the four-mode Allgrip all-wheel drive system is still being offered.

When UK deliveries of the 2017 SX4 S-Cross begin next month, customers will have a choice of SZ4, SZ-T (for fleet buyers) and SZ5 trim grades. Standard equipment across the range includes a DAB radio, cruise control, Bluetooth, air conditioning and 16” alloy wheels.

UK prices start from £14,999.

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Fuso announces limited eCanter production

September 28, 2016, 3:34 pm

≫ Next: Extra range for the electric Renault Zoe

≪ Previous: 2017 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross unveiled

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Daimler subsidiary Fuso has confirmed that the latest electric-powered version of its Canter light-duty truck is going to be built in limited numbers.

To go with a change in name from Canter E-Cell to eCanter, this new iteration gains refreshed front-end styling which incorporates LED headlights. The most important updates concern the drivetrain, though.

Output from the electric motor is now 248 bhp (185 kW / 251 PS), while available torque becomes 380 Nm (280 lb/ft). A single-speed transmission is fitted as before.

Five liquid-cooled, 100-cell, 420 V, lithium-ion battery packs take care of energy storage. Total capacity is 70 kWh, enough for a claimed range of around 60 miles (100 kilometres).

Understandably, prospective operators are likely to be curious about how the batteries affect carrying capacity, because in total they tip the scales at 560 kg (1,234 lbs). Well, according to Fuso, the eCanter has a gross vehicle weight of 7.49 tonnes (16,512 lbs) and the limit for additional bodywork plus cargo is 4.63 tonnes (10,207 lbs).

Recharge times – another reasonable concern – depend on the method used. Full replenishment from flat takes seven hours via a 6.6 kW AC supply, for example. Alternatively, a 150 kW DC quick-charging station can do the job to 80% in one hour, but a 170 kW source would halve that time.

The Fuso eCanter will be offered in Europe, Japan and the United States. Deliveries are due to begin next year.

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Extra range for the electric Renault Zoe

September 30, 2016, 5:37 pm

≫ Next: Buick announces the Avenir sub-brand

≪ Previous: Fuso announces limited eCanter production

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A new 'Z.E. 40' lithium-ion battery should make Renault's electric-powered Zoe a practical proposition for many more people.

It boasts a 41 kWh capacity. That translates into a very useful range of 248 miles (400 kilometres) according to the NEDC measure, or 186 miles (300 kilometres) in real-world urban and suburban conditions.

By comparison, the existing 22 kWh pack (which is still going to be available) achieves NEDC and real-world figures of 149 miles (240 kilometres) and 106 miles (170 kilometres) respectively.

Importantly, both options have the same physical dimensions and similar recharge times. Renault reckons that plugging-in for half an hour allows the car to be driven for another 50 miles (80 kilometres), for example.

UK sales of the revised Zoe range will begin in November. Prices and battery rental costs have yet to be announced.

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Buick announces the Avenir sub-brand

October 1, 2016, 12:25 pm

≫ Next: Citroën C3 WRC concept revealed

≪ Previous: Extra range for the electric Renault Zoe

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According to Buick, international customers “expecting a high-end experience and premium quality” are the target market for its new Avenir sub-brand.

The models that are going to receive the Avenir treatment have yet to be named. Numerous luxury features are promised though, as befits what is essentially a range-topping trim grade.

They include unique upholsteries and interior appointments, while the exteriors will gain a distinctive mesh grille design that was first seen on January's Avista coupé concept.

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Image © General Motors.

Citroën C3 WRC concept revealed

October 2, 2016, 8:42 am

≫ Next: U.S. Army to test the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2

≪ Previous: Buick announces the Avenir sub-brand

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Despite the 'concept' suffix, the new C3 WRC unveiled at the Paris Motor Show is almost the car that will compete in next year's World Rally Championship.

Based on the latest five-door model, it complies with the revamped series regulations being introduced by the FIA for 2017. In terms of bodywork modifications, they allow a larger rear wing, longer overhangs, bigger sill extensions and more elaborate aerodynamic appendages.

Power still comes from a 1.6 litre turbocharged petrol engine. However, output is now up to around 375 bhp (280 kW / 380 PS) and overall weight is down by 25 kg (55 lbs), so better performance is expected.

The 2017 WRC begins with the Rallye Monte Carlo in January.

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U.S. Army to test the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2

October 4, 2016, 3:05 am

≫ Next: Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2016

≪ Previous: Citroën C3 WRC concept revealed

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A quick glance at the ZH2 is enough to realise that this is a very heavily modified Colorado. Intended for military use, special features include a longer chassis, bespoke bodywork, off-road suspension and bigger tyres.

However, the most significant change isn't immediately apparent: instead of an internal combustion engine, the ZH2 runs on electricity which is generated by an on-board hydrogen fuel cell.

Virtually silent running, instant torque and a reduced thermal signature are among the technology's advantages. Furthermore, the ZH2 is equipped with a portable 25 kW electric power take-off unit.

As in the civilian world, access to a reliable supply of hydrogen is likely to be a potential impediment. Doubtless the U.S. Army will carefully consider that issue when it begins assessing the ZH2 next year.

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Images © General Motors.

Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2016

October 5, 2016, 2:58 pm

≫ Next: BMW adds two more bikes to its R nineT range

≪ Previous: U.S. Army to test the Chevrolet Colorado ZH2

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With a record-breaking 469,696 registrations in September alone, demand for new cars seems unaffected by June's Brexit referendum. Of course, the full ramifications won't be known until the UK actually leaves the European Union (a process which is likely to take a while).

Statistics published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that the year-to-date total now stands at 2,150,495 – an increase of 2.6% compared to 2015's corresponding figure of 2,096,886.

However, it's not all good news. Although cumulative 'private' category sales are running at the same rate as last year, they fell during the important plate-change month of September by 3,931 to 223,844 units. Such a decrease could be signalling a slowdown in true retail activity.

Regardless of market conditions, the list of the country's ten most popular models remains predictably consistent.

Unsurprisingly, the Ford Fiesta is still the UK's best-selling car.

Top 10: Cumulative UK Car Registrations Q3 2016
Position	Model	Registrations	Market Share
1	Ford Fiesta	96,139	4.5%
2	Vauxhall Corsa	64,925	3.0%
3	Ford Focus	57,137	2.7%
4	Volkswagen Golf	54,954	2.6%
5	Nissan Qashqai	50,293	2.3%
6	Vauxhall Astra	44,771	2.1%
7	Volkswagen Polo	43,642	2.0%
8	Mini Hatch	36,738	1.7%
9	Mercedes-Benz C-Class	34,994	1.6%
10	Audi A3	33,240	1.6%

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BMW adds two more bikes to its R nineT range

October 6, 2016, 2:47 pm

≫ Next: The Caterham Seven Harrods edition is tacky

≪ Previous: Top 10: UK car sales Q3 2016

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When BMW introduced the original R nineT a few years ago, classic styling cues and an opportunity to customise were the motorcycle's key selling points. They're evidently proving to be a successful combination, because a Scrambler version was launched last year and now Pure and Racer models have been announced.

As those names suggest, Pure has a stripped-back aesthetic, while Racer gains a circuit-inspired half fairing, set-back foot pegs and a single seat unit. Both are built around a modular steel frame with a conventional fork at the front and BMW's Paralever suspension at the rear.

Power is provided by an air- and oil-cooled 1,170 cc twin-cylinder boxer engine. EU4-compliant, its 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS) is delivered via a six-speed gearbox.

Deliveries are due to begin during March 2017. In Germany, the R nineT Pure has a price of €12,300 (including VAT) and the R nineT Racer costs €1,000 more.

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The Caterham Seven Harrods edition is tacky

October 7, 2016, 11:18 am

≫ Next: Interbrand’s most valuable auto brands of 2016

≪ Previous: BMW adds two more bikes to its R nineT range

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Maybe those people who frequent Harrods will believe that Caterham’s latest special edition is the epitome of good taste. They’d be wrong though, because the result is a gaudy mess.

This unique Seven, which is based on a 420S, is being used to launch Caterham’s ‘Signature’ personalisation service.

To reflect the branding of London’s most renowned corner shop, its paintwork is a peculiar shade of green and gold-coloured powder-coating adorns the chassis.

In the cockpit, Harrods logos have been embroidered on the leather-covered seats and the gear knob wears an ‘H’ motif. Also adding to the effect is an incongruous wooden dashboard.

The car’s worst aspect is a ludicrous price tag, though. Whereas a regular factory-built Seven 420S costs from £32,990, the Harrods edition is an astronomical £59,999.

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Interbrand’s most valuable auto brands of 2016

October 8, 2016, 3:21 pm

≫ Next: SsangYong Turismo Tourist camper unveiled

≪ Previous: The Caterham Seven Harrods edition is tacky

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Toyota is still the world's most valuable automotive brand, according to the latest Interbrand Best 100 Global Brands study. Indeed, a 9% uplift saw it move from sixth to fifth position in the overall standings.

But Nissan once again recorded the highest value increase of any car or motorcycle marque, resulting in a six-place improvement.

Significantly, Mercedes-Benz has overtaken arch-rival BMW, while relative newcomer Tesla appears on the list for the first time.

Tesla has become the 100th most valuable global brand.

As expected, the repercussions from the 'dieselgate' scandal continue to affect Volkswagen. Thanks to a 9% decrease in value and a five-slot drop, the German make now sits behind Ford, Hyundai and Audi.

Interbrand Best Automotive Brands 2016
Overall ranking	Brand	Value (US$ million)	Value change
5	Toyota	53,580	+9%
9	Mercedes-Benz	43,490	+18%
11	BMW	41,535	+12%
21	Honda	22,106	-4%
33	Ford	12,962	+12%
35	Hyundai	12,547	+11%
38	Audi	11,799	+14%
40	Volkswagen	11,436	-9%
43	Nissan	11,066	+22%
50	Porsche	9,537	+18%
69	Kia	6,326	+12%
78	Land Rover	5,696	+11%
80	Harley-Davidson	5,527	+1%
88	Mini	4,986	+18%
100	Tesla	4,011	New entry

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