SsangYong Turismo Tourist camper unveiled

October 10, 2016, 3:36 pm

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Stealth camping enthusiasts are going to like the new Tourist camper van because, apart from a slightly raised roof line and darkened windows, it looks like a regular SsangYong Turismo.

This South Korean people-carrier is certainly an unlikely starting point for a camper, but the unusual result is nevertheless intriguing. Wisely, the conversion work has been outsourced to Wellhouse Leisure, a Yorkshire-based firm that specialises in modifying compact vehicles.

Inside, four travel seats are retained which fold down to form two single beds. Additional living space is created by the colour-matched elevating roof, plus there's an awning for the tailgate.

At the rear, two plywood furniture units accommodate a 25 litre compressor fridge, a sink, fresh- and waste-water containers, a gas locker and a portable toilet. Furthermore, a glass-topped dual-burner gas hob is mounted on a clever sliding mechanism, so cooking can be done either indoors or outside.

Options include a couple of extra berths, mains hook-up, a solar panel and an Eberspächer heater.

Power is provided by a 2.2 litre, four-cylinder, Euro 6-compliant diesel engine that produces 175 bhp (130 kW / 178 PS) with 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque. As well as a choice of six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmissions, customers will be able to specify either rear- or selectable four-wheel drive.

The SsangYong Turismo Tourist camper is being displayed at this month's Motorhome and Caravan Show in Birmingham. Prices start at £29,995.

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2017 GMC Sierra HD All Terrain X announced

October 11, 2016, 12:35 pm

≫ Next: 2017 BMW K 1600 B first view

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GMC's Sierra HD pick-up is now being offered in All Terrain X guise. This limited edition, which gets some cosmetic tweaks and improved off-road ability, is based on the four-wheel drive 2500HD with a crew cab.

As per the regular All Terrain package, the specification includes Rancho dampers, the Z71 suspension upgrade, under-body shields, front and rear park assist, a spray-on bed liner and a heated steering wheel.

For the X version, the standard equipment list is even more generous. Among the extra items are an Eaton automatic locking rear differential, 18” black-painted alloy wheels shod with Goodyear Duratrac MT-rated tyres, black side steps, a bed-mounted sport bar, power-folding heated door mirrors and leather upholstery.

Paintwork choice is restricted to either Black Onyx or Summit White and, to give a distinctive look, the door handles, body-side mouldings and unique grille surround are all body-coloured.

The engine line-up comprises a 6.0 litre gasoline V8 and the new 6.6 litre Duramax turbocharged diesel V8.

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Images © General Motors.

2017 BMW K 1600 B first view

October 13, 2016, 2:38 pm

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There must have been a positive reaction to BMW's Concept 101, because it's now entering production as the K 1600 B.

That 'B' suffix stands for 'bagger', a motorcycle style defined by a drop-shaped silhouette, a low ride height and, of course, a pair of saddle bags. The K 1600 B's rigid panniers are bolted on and they incorporate LED light clusters.

Standard equipment includes a power-adjustable windscreen, heated handlebars and seats, cruise control, a xenon headlight, Dynamic Traction Control and the electrically-controlled Dynamic ESA suspension set-up that offers Road or Cruise modes.

Customers could still be tempted by numerous cost options, though. Among the available items are Hill Start Control, keyless ignition and, for clutchless gear changes, Shift Assistance Pro. Also on the list is reverse assist. This push-button device, which uses the starter motor, might be indispensable given the bike's unladen weight of 336 kg (740 lbs).

Powering the K 1600 B is a 1,649 cc, six-cylinder engine. EU4-compliant, it delivers 157 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS) and 175 Nm (129 lb/ft) of peak torque via a six-speed transmission.

UK pricing has yet to be announced.

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2017 Nissan GT-R Nismo pricing confirmed

October 14, 2016, 3:51 pm

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Future GT-R Nismo owners will be faced with two groups of people: Nissan aficionados who totally understand why somebody would spend a six-figure sum on the car, and everyone else who thinks that doing so is utterly baffling.

The second category is bound to have considerably more members than the first. Consequently, the 2017 GT-R Nismo's price tag of £149,995 (€184,950 in France and Germany) is going to demand repeated justification.

It's not as if such a tough feat can be achieved by focussing on value for money.

Take cost per horsepower, for example. Sure, the Nissan's 3.8 litre twin-turbo V6 engine boasts an impressively high output, but most rival offerings from swankier brands score very similarly on this basis.

Model	UK price	Power	£ per bhp
Audi R8 V10 plus	£134,520	601 bhp (448 kW / 610 PS)	£224
Aston Martin V12 Vantage S	£140,495	563 bhp (420 kW / 571 PS)	£250
Nissan GT-R Nismo	£149,995	591 bhp (441 kW / 600 PS)	£254
Porsche 911 Turbo S	£145,773	572 bhp (427 kW / 580 PS)	£255
McLaren 570S	£144,425	562 bhp (419 kW / 570 PS)	£257
Bentley Continental GT V8 S	£150,740	520 bhp (388 kW / 528 PS)	£290

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Buick unveils a new GL8 MPV for China

October 15, 2016, 1:30 pm

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As it's the brand's largest market, a product launch in China is always going to be an important event for Buick. So, the arrival of the 2017 GL8 is certainly newsworthy, even if this multi-purpose vehicle is unlikely to be available anywhere else.

The styling incorporates Buick's latest grille design, while the flanks now feature pronounced swage lines. Overall, the end result isn't too bad, although the side window profile appears to clash unnecessarily with the roofline.

A wheelbase of 3,088 mm (121.6”) is identical to the previous version's. However, a slightly taller height plus shorter overhangs front and rear have resulted in subtly altered proportions.

Chances are, most customers will be more interested in the interior. This is claimed to offer a premium ambiance and, as before, there are seats for seven people.

For the time being, Buick hasn't released any technical details, but improved powertrains and better ride comfort are promised.

Sales of the 2017 GL8 are due to begin in China later this year.

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2016 BMW M4 DTM Champion Edition

October 17, 2016, 3:03 pm

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BMW Motorsport driver Marco Wittmann has just won his second DTM championship title so, right on cue, a special road-going M4 is here to lead the celebrations.

While 2014's DTM Champion Edition concentrated on cosmetic tweaks, this new version boasts some serious technical upgrades as well. They start with the 3.0 litre, six-cylinder, turbocharged engine, which features the water injection system previously seen on the M4 GTS.

As a result, output is up by 68 bhp (51 kW / 69 PS) to 493 bhp (368 kW / 500 PS), plus peak torque has been raised from 550 Nm (405 lb/ft) to 600 Nm (442 lb/ft). Those increased figures give a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.8 seconds and an electronically-limited 189 mph (305 km/h) top speed.

The track-focussed specification also includes a roll cage instead of rear seats, coilover suspension that can be adjusted for both rebound and damping, carbon-ceramic brake discs and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.

To help keep the car's weight down, the bonnet, roof, rear diffuser and prominent boot-mounted wing are made from carbon fibre. Furthermore, titanium exhaust silencers are fitted.

Just 200 examples of the 2016 M4 DTM Champion Edition are being built and all will have Alpine White paintwork. In Germany, the price is €148,500.

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Mountune introduces the Fiesta MR265

October 18, 2016, 2:51 pm

≫ Next: Naim For Bentley home speakers launched

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With the next-generation Ford Fiesta due to be launched soon, Mountune's new MR265 conversion provides a proper last hurrah for the current model.

Based on the ST variant, its main components are a better turbocharger, a larger intercooler and a high-flow induction kit. Also included in the package are various hoses, replacement exhaust parts, a camshaft timing tool and the mTune calibration handset.

As the MR265 name suggests, output from the 1.6 litre EcoBoost engine is increased to an impressive 261 bhp (195 kW / 265 PS). Similarly, peak torque rises to 370 Nm (273 lb/ft) and one benefit is a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time of just 5.7 seconds.

The price (including VAT but excluding fitting) is £4,500. Thanks to Mountune's modular approach, Fiesta ST owners who have previously had the MP215, MT215 or MR230 modifications installed can upgrade to MR265 specification for a reduced cost.

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Naim For Bentley home speakers launched

October 20, 2016, 2:29 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Triumph Bonneville Bobber first view

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Like most other premium motor manufacturers, Bentley isn't averse to sticking its name on non-automotive products. The latest such venture is a couple of home wireless speaker systems.

Called Mu-so and Mu-so qb, they have been developed by renowned Wiltshire-based hi-fi company Naim Audio. As both use Bluetooth connectivity, either downloaded or online sources can be streamed from various devices.

Several design features provide visual links to Bentley's car interiors and the Naim Audio upgrades available for them. These include the pattern embossed on the anodised aluminium case, the knurled rotary control and the 'Portland' grille colour.

The Mu-so, which is rated at 450 watts, incorporates six speakers. Its price tag is £1,199, or $1,694 in the United States (excluding local taxes).

Alternatively, the more compact Mu-so qb produces 300 watts at a cost of £749 ($1,108).

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2017 Triumph Bonneville Bobber first view

October 22, 2016, 2:00 pm

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Minimal bodywork, a low-set adjustable single seat, flat handlebars and wire-spoke wheels combine to give the Bonneville Bobber a cool custom vibe.

Built around an all-new frame, Triumph's latest bike also features a 'cage' rear swing arm which is connected to a hidden mono-shock suspension set-up. A natty hard-tail look is the result.

Thanks to its unique state of tune, the familiar liquid-cooled, 1,200 cc, parallel-twin engine delivers peak torque lower down the rev range (although output figures have yet to be disclosed). A distinctive noise is promised, courtesy of brushed stainless steel 'slash cut' exhausts with peashooter silencers.

Despite those classic design cues, the Bonneville Bobber boasts plenty of modern technology. For example, a torque-assist clutch reduces gear-change effort, while a ride-by-wire throttle offers a choice of road or rain riding modes. Furthermore, switchable traction control is fitted.

When deliveries begin early next year, buyers will be able to specify Competition Green / Frozen Silver two-tone, Jet Black, Morello Red or matt Ironstone paintwork. They're likely to be tempted by the comprehensive accessory selection, too.

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October 24, 2016, 2:03 pm

≫ Next: Mercedes-Benz reveals its X-Class pick-up

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Since being launched in 2012, the UK government's Plug-in Van Grant has applied only to hybrid or fully-electric vehicles in the N1 class (i.e. with a gross weight not exceeding 3.5 tonnes). Now, though, the scheme has been expanded to encompass the N2 (GVW of over 3.5 tonnes but not exceeding 12 tonnes) and N3 (GVW exceeding 12 tonnes) categories.

As per the existing incentive available for N1 vans, the grant covers 20% of the purchase cost up to a maximum of £8,000. It's received at point of purchase and no retrospective claiming is necessary.

To encourage operators of heavier vehicles to switch away from diesel power, the first 200 eligible N2 and N3 orders will receive a substantially enhanced £20,000 grant. Sensibly, those higher allowances are being limited to ten per customer, so a few big fleets won't be able to grab them all.

A potential N2 candidate for the Plug-in Van Grant: Fuso's eCanter.

A list of qualifying N2 and N3 vehicles has yet to be published, but the requirements are the same as the current N1 rules. Therefore, plug-in hybrids have to achieve a minimum electric-only range of 10 miles (16 km) and emit no more than 75 g/km of carbon dioxide. All-electric models meanwhile must be able to travel at least 60 miles (97 km) on a single battery charge.

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Mercedes-Benz reveals its X-Class pick-up

October 26, 2016, 3:14 pm

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Logically, the new Mercedes-Benz X-Class pick-up – which has just been unveiled in pre-production Concept form – will be marketed by the firm's van division.

Such a tactic could alienate some potential 'lifestyle' buyers though, because they might be the sort of people who wouldn't dream of setting foot inside a commercial vehicle dealership. Nevertheless, X-Class is being touted as a premium product.

That's despite sharing its underpinnings with the relatively humble Nissan NP300 Navara and Renault Alaskan. Indeed, when deliveries begin late next year, X-Class production for Australia, Europe and South Africa will be sourced from Nissan's factory in Barcelona, Spain. Similarly, every X-Class sold across South America is going to be built at the Renault plant in Cordoba, Argentina.

If the Concept X-Class is a reliable indicator, then cabin ambience is likely to be a key attribute. For instance, the 'explorer' boasts white nappa and brown nubuck leather upholstery, as well as oak wood and brushed aluminium elements. Nappa leather also appears in the slightly more utilitarian 'adventurer' version, along with matte carbon-fibre trim pieces.

Thanks partly to a ladder-type chassis, Mercedes-Benz is promising a payload of at least 1.1 tonnes and a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tonnes. Furthermore, permanent 4Matic all-wheel drive plus two differential locks should ensure decent all-terrain performance. On-road ride comfort isn't being neglected either, because the specification is set to include a five-link rear axle with coil springs (rather than a crude leaf spring arrangement).

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Nissan creates the e-NV200 WORKSPACe

October 29, 2016, 7:53 am

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Are there many caffeine-addicted people who need a tiny electric-powered mobile office that can't travel very far? Probably not, but Nissan has nevertheless teamed up with designers Studio Hardie to concoct the one-off e-NV200 WORKSPACe.

Despite somewhat cramped proportions, the interior has an airy ambience thanks to a predominantly white colour scheme, LED lights, a panoramic glass roof and oak flooring. If a greater connection to the outdoors is required, then the split rear doors can be opened to deploy a rather gimmicky 'floating deck'.

Beneath a touch-screen computer sits a very small fold-down desk with a built-in pencil tray. For sustenance, a mini fridge and a fancy coffee machine comprise the kitchenette situated on the opposite side.

Also fitted are a wireless phone charging dock, a Bluetooth audio system, two moveable leather-covered chairs and a wireless internet facility. Completing the specification is a Brompton folding bicycle that hangs from a bespoke carrying bracket.

The concept certainly incorporates some novel features but, because it's based on the pure-electric e-NV200 van, driving range is limited to just 106 miles (170 kilometres) on a single charge.

For the time being at least, Nissan isn't planning a production version.

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October 31, 2016, 6:00 pm

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While the Cooper S E ALL4 is arguably the most relevant member of the just-revealed 2017 Countryman range, this new arrival also demonstrates an inherent drawback of plug-in hybrid technology.

Specifically, the hybrid Countryman has two separate powertrains that rarely need to pool their resources. So, in other words, one of them is usually being carried around as redundant luggage.

Driving the front wheels is a 1.5 litre, turbocharged, three-cylinder petrol engine. Its 134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS) and 220 Nm (162 lb/ft) of peak torque are delivered via a six-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox.

Driving the rear wheels is a synchronous electric motor. Its 87 bhp (65 kW / 88 PS) and 165 Nm (121 lb/ft) are delivered via a two-stage single-speed transmission.

Electricity is supplied by an adjacent 7.6 kWh five-module lithium-ion battery pack that's positioned beneath the slightly raised back seats. A full recharge takes 2 hours 15 minutes using a dedicated 3.6 kW wallbox, or an hour longer if plugged in to an ordinary domestic socket.

Nevertheless, totals of 221 bhp (165 kW / 224 PS) and 385 Nm (283 lb/ft) have their benefits. A 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 6.9 seconds suggests rapid performance, plus efficiency seems impressive as well. The official combined cycle figures are 134.5 mpg (2.1 l/100km) with CO2 emissions of 49 g/km.

An eDrive toggle switch offers a choice of three modes. 'Auto eDrive' allows electric-only driving at speeds of up to 50 mph (80 km/h) and a maximum range of 25 miles (40 kilometres). The internal combustion engine starts up under heavy throttle loads or when the battery is nearing depletion, though.

'Max eDrive' is very similar to 'Auto eDrive', but the permissible top speed gets increased to 78 mph (125 km/h). Alternatively, 'Save Battery' does exactly that by running the petrol engine only.

The Dynamic Stability Control system can also determine which axles receive power. For example, all-wheel drive could kick in when travelling over rough terrain, provided there's sufficient battery charge remaining.

UK deliveries of the 2017 Countryman are scheduled to begin next February. A price for the plug-in hybrid version isn't known yet.

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November 1, 2016, 4:05 pm

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Ford Performance has unveiled its Mustang GT4 at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas. The new race car, which is being aimed at customer teams around the world, will be eligible to compete in various championships such as the GT4 European Series.

Taking the Shelby GT350R-C as a starting point, the specification includes an FIA-compliant roll cage, an upgraded suspension set-up by Multimatic Motorsports, a Motec data logger and Forgeline 18” wheels shod with slick tyres.

Also fitted is an aerodynamics package that comprises a front splitter, extra bonnet vents, sill extensions, a diffuser and a rear wing.

An output figure for the Mustang GT4's 5.2 litre V8 hasn't been disclosed. However, Ford has said that the engine gains a motorsport-specific control unit and it comes mated to a Holinger six-speed transmission with paddle shifters.

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Nissan has devised a range-extender powertrain

November 2, 2016, 4:12 pm

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Given Nissan's focus on the pure-electric Leaf (and the relative sales success of that model), launching a new range-extender powertrain almost seems like a backward step.

Officially known as a 'series hybrid', the e-Power system forms part of the Nissan Intelligent Mobility strategy. At its core is a small-capacity petrol engine, which is used solely to charge a battery pack via a generator. The other key component is an electric motor that drives the wheels.

Undoubtedly one particular advantage of e-Power versus the Leaf is a complete absence of range anxiety. As long as a filling station can be found to keep the engine running, then the electricity supply won't be depleted.

The Note e-Power will be the first Nissan range-extender. Availability, final specifications and pricing have yet to be announced, though.

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A 220 mph Toyota Land Cruiser at SEMA 2016

November 3, 2016, 3:33 pm

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As part of its thirty-vehicle display at this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas, Toyota has created six 'extreme builds'.

In the true spirit of SEMA, the most outrageous is a specially-modified Land Cruiser. The 5.7 litre V8 engine in the aptly renamed Land Speed Cruiser gains twin Garrett turbochargers plus a bespoke ATI transmission.

Consequently, Toyota reckons this enormous SUV is capable of reaching 220 mph (354 km/h).

To help keep everything stable at such a high velocity, the upgrades also include drastically lowered suspension, a rear diffuser, a tailgate spoiler and a huge front air dam. Perhaps wisely, a full roll cage is fitted too.

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Cross Up! introduced by Volkswagen

November 4, 2016, 4:23 pm

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Although the updated 2017 Cross Up! retains a somewhat rugged look, most examples are unlikely to ever venture over rough terrain. Nevertheless, its additional features could still prove very useful for ordinary urban driving.

For instance, the 'off-road' suspension set-up – which raises ground clearance by 15 mm (0.6”) – will be better at dealing with potholes and speed bumps. Parking scrapes should be less of a worry too, thanks to the wheel arch cladding, side rubbing strips and redesigned bumpers.

16” five-spoke Kalamata alloy wheels, silver anodised roof rails, cornering lights and some extra chrome trim are also part of the specification. The interior meanwhile gains unique upholstery and orange ambient lighting.

The Cross Up! is being offered in five-door form only, with a choice of 73 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS) MPI or 88 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS) TSI 1.0 litre petrol engines. UK availability has yet to be confirmed.

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November 7, 2016, 3:13 pm

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Additional products and a bid to become 'semi-premium' underpin a reworked strategy for General Motor's European brands.

Leading the shake-up is the Insignia Grand Sport. This all-new five-door D-segment contender, which boasts a coupé silhouette, is both larger and lighter than the current Insignia that it's due to replace. A public debut is scheduled for the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Soon afterwards, an estate version called Insignia Sports Tourer is going to arrive. Then, later in 2017, the off-road inspired Insignia Country Tourer with standard all-wheel drive will join the line-up.

Vauxhall / Opel realises that plenty of buyers now want a crossover rather than an MPV or a mundane hatchback. So, to help meet that demand, the just-announced Crossland X is set to sit alongside the Mokka X in the revamped range.

In a similar vein, a C-segment crossover is also coming next year. For now, hardly anything has been revealed about this extra model, but we do know it'll be similar in size to the Zafira Tourer.

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2017 Honda X-ADV specifications

November 8, 2016, 2:29 pm

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Being an amalgamation of large scooter and adventure motorcycle, Honda's new 2017 X-ADV is certainly a very unusual bike.

Built around a tubular steel frame, features include long-travel suspension, wire-spoke wheels, hand guards, an aluminium bash plate and a five-position adjustable windscreen. For convenience, there's 21 litres of under-seat storage and keyless ignition.

Power is provided by a twin-cylinder engine that's been tuned to deliver plenty of low- and mid-range torque. It comes mated to a dual-clutch transmission as standard (a traditional manual gearbox isn't available).

When sales begin, customers will have a choice of Victory Red, Matt Bullet Silver, Digital Silver Metallic or Pearl Glare White Tricolour colour schemes.

Pricing has yet to be announced.

2017 Honda X-ADV – technical specifications
Engine	745 cc, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 8-valve, parallel-twin
Power	50.0 bhp (40.3 kW / 54.8 PS) @ 6,250 rpm
Torque	68 Nm (50 lb/ft) @ 4,750 rpm
Fuel economy	77.6 mpg (3.6 l/100km / 27.5 km/l) (WMTC mode)
Fuel tank capacity	13.1 litres (2.9 gallons)
Emissions	Euro4-compliant; 81 g/km of CO2 (WMTC mode)
Transmission	Six-speed dual-clutch; D and S automatic modes, MT manual mode
Final drive	Chain
Front suspension	Upside-down fork with adjustable spring preload and adjustable rebound damping
Rear suspension	Prolink with adjustable preload
Front wheel	17” with 120/70 R17 block-pattern tyre
Rear wheel	15” with 160/60 R15 block-pattern tyre
Brakes	Two-channel anti-lock; twin 310 mm front discs with radial-mounted four-piston calipers
Seat height	820 mm (32.3”)
Ground clearance	162 mm (6.4”)
Kerb weight	238 kg (525 lbs)

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Suzuki announces the GSX250R

November 9, 2016, 3:03 pm

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Next spring will see the arrival of Suzuki's all-new small-capacity sports bike. The GSX250R, which can be ridden by A2 category licence holders, should appeal particularly to novice riders.

Its 248 cc engine delivers 24.6 bhp (18.4 kW / 25.0 PS) at 8,000 rpm and 23.4 Nm (17.3 lb/ft) of torque at 6,500 rpm via a six-speed gearbox. This four-stroke, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin unit has been designed to focus on low- and mid-range performance, while meeting Euro4 emissions regulations.

The standard specification includes 17” ten-spoke wheels, adjustable suspension, clip-on handlebars and a comprehensive LCD instrument panel. Braking is taken care of by petal discs front and rear, supported by a Bosch anti-lock system.

For motorcycling rookies, a kerb weight of 181 kg (399 lbs) plus a low 790 mm (31.1”) saddle height won't be too daunting.

A UK price for the 2017 GSX250R has yet to be confirmed.

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