The run-out Honda Civic Type R Black Edition

January 11, 2017, 11:41 am

≫ Next: Top 10: UK car sales 2016 - winners and losers

≪ Previous: 2017 NACTOY winners

$

0

0

After just eighteen months, production of the current Civic Type R has come to an end. A total of 2,500 examples were allocated to the UK market and, to celebrate the model's departure, the final 100 have been built to Black Edition specification.

Honda reckons the Type R Black Edition will become “a true collector's item” although, in reality, there's not much to distinguish it from the regular version. The rear wing end plates gain a red finish and the two-tone interior colour scheme is unique, but those are the only differences.

Mechanically, everything is unchanged. That means power still comes from a 2.0 litre VTEC turbocharged petrol engine that delivers 306 bhp (228 kW / 310 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) via the front wheels.

The Black Edition has an on-the-road price of £32,300. For anybody more interested in waiting for the next-generation Civic, the Type R variant is due at dealers before the end of 2017.

Related posts:
Top 10: New cars due in 2017
American-spec 2017 Civic Hatchback unveiled

---

Top 10: UK car sales 2016 - winners and losers

January 12, 2017, 3:19 pm

≫ Next: A high performance Yaris is coming

≪ Previous: The run-out Honda Civic Type R Black Edition

$

0

0

Total new car registrations hit an all-time high of 2,692,786 in 2016. Compared to 2015, that figure represented a modest rise of 2.3%. Of course, some manufacturers comfortably beat the market average, but it was a year to forget for others.

Infiniti easily topped the 2016 winners’ league table. A huge 141.9% increase was underpinned by the arrival of the Q30 compact hatchback, a rival for models such as the BMW 1 Series and Audi A3.

A market share of just 0.1% in 2016 means Infiniti remains a minnow.

Jaguar Land Rover also performed strongly, with both of the firm’s brands experiencing healthy growth. An extra 24,574 units meanwhile saw Mercedes-Benz post the highest absolute gain.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2016 - Winners
Manufacturer	2016	2015	Change	Change %
Infiniti	2,891	1,195	1,696	141.9%
Jaguar	34,822	23,954	10,868	45.4%
Abarth	3,966	2,743	1,223	44.6%
Smart	12,020	8,455	3,565	42.2%
Bentley	1,948	1,379	569	41.3%
MG	4,192	3,152	1,040	33.0%
SsangYong	4,444	3,344	1,100	32.9%
Jeep	14,090	10,794	3,296	30.5%
Land Rover	79,534	66,574	12,960	19.5%
Mercedes-Benz	169,828	145,254	24,574	16.9%
Total Market	2,692,786	2,633,503	59,283	2.3%

Despite still being the nation’s three most popular marques, Ford, Vauxhall and post-dieselgate Volkswagen all managed to appear on the loser list.

Volkswagen's annual registrations dropped by 7.5% in 2016.

Indeed, seven of the entries come from the overcrowded and tough market sector which is neither premium nor budget. That undoubtedly says a lot about current buying habits.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2016 - Losers
Manufacturer	2016	2015	Change	Change %
Mitsubishi	18,237	22,693	-4,456	-19.6%
Citroën / DS	78,889	88,626	-9,737	-11.0%
Lotus	339	375	-36	-9.6%
Volkswagen	207,028	223,784	-16,756	-7.5%
Vauxhall	250,955	269,766	-18,811	-7.0%
Fiat	60,581	64,257	-3,676	-5.7%
Peugeot	98,529	104,249	-5,720	-5.5%
Ford	318,316	335,267	-16,951	-5.1%
Aston Martin	906	949	-43	-4.5%
Alfa Romeo	4,881	5,069	-188	-3.7%
Total Market	2,692,786	2,633,503	59,283	2.3%

Related posts:
Top 10: UK car sales 2016
Top 10: New cars due in 2017
Top 10: UK car sales 2015 - winners and losers

A high performance Yaris is coming

January 13, 2017, 2:00 pm

≫ Next: Chevy’s Cruze becomes the Holden Astra sedan

≪ Previous: Top 10: UK car sales 2016 - winners and losers

$

0

0

Current World Rally Championship regulations don't require manufacturers to build a certain number of identical cars in order to participate. That wasn't the case under the long-superseded Group B and Group A rules, which demanded the production of so-called homologation specials.

As a result, those eras engendered some exciting showroom models, including the Lancia Delta HF Integrale and Ford Escort RS Cosworth. Invariably, they became the stars of their respective ranges.

Such homologation specials were also a boon for marketing departments, because they provided a tangible link to a brand's motorsport activities. Nowadays, that's much harder to achieve (just ask any Polo owner if they're aware of Volkswagen's WRC success, for example).

Toyota has therefore decided to capitalise on its return to top-flight rallying by launching a high-performance three-door Yaris. Inspired by the new Yaris WRC, an output exceeding 210 horsepower (around 155 kW) is promised. At this stage all other details are unknown, though.

A public reveal will take place at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Related posts:
Toyota introduces the Aygo x-press and x-style
2017 Toyota Yaris WRC unveiled

Chevy’s Cruze becomes the Holden Astra sedan

January 14, 2017, 12:09 pm

≫ Next: NP300 Navara Trek-1° special edition unveiled

≪ Previous: A high performance Yaris is coming

$

0

0

Holden has released the first images of its 2017 Astra sedan. This new four-door, which arrives at dealers in May, is essentially a Chevrolet Cruze with a restyled nose.

The Astra sedan will sit alongside the existing Vauxhall / Opel-based Astra hatch and Astra coupé in Holden's range. Despite being engineered in Germany and manufactured in Korea, there has been local input to ensure that various facets (such as the chassis set-up) are suited to roads in Australia and New Zealand.

Detailed specifications and pricing have yet to be announced.

Related posts:
2017 Chevrolet Cruze hatchback revealed
Top 10: Facts about the 2016 Chevrolet Cruze

Images © General Motors.

NP300 Navara Trek-1° special edition unveiled

January 15, 2017, 3:31 pm

≫ Next: Knaus Crafter-based camper van concept

≪ Previous: Chevy’s Cruze becomes the Holden Astra sedan

$

0

0

Full marks to Nissan for giving its latest limited edition pick-up an interesting name. The Trek-1°, which is based on the range-topping NP300 Navara Tekna, alludes to the -1° longitude of the Navarre desert in Spain.

Extra equipment includes a set of black 18” six-spoke alloy wheels, styling bars and two high-mounted forward-facing LED spotlights. Furthermore, the load bed gains a liner, a divider and a hinged plastic cover.

Although the Trek-1° is being offered in double cab guise only, customers do have a choice of Black Metallic or Pearlescent White paintwork.

Power comes from the usual 2.3 litre, four-cylinder diesel engine that develops either 158 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS) or 187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS). On-demand four-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox are standard. Alternatively, an optional seven-speed automatic transmission can be ordered, but only in conjunction with the higher output.

Nissan plans to build just 1,500 units, which will be distributed across Europe. An allocation and pricing for the UK have yet to be confirmed.

Related posts:
Nissan NP300 Navara EnGuard Concept
The NP300 Navara becomes Euro 6 compliant

Knaus Crafter-based camper van concept

January 18, 2017, 3:40 pm

≫ Next: Vauxhall / Opel Crossland X first view

≪ Previous: NP300 Navara Trek-1° special edition unveiled

$

0

0

Fiat's Ducato pretty much dominates the large camper van scene at the moment. Whether or not the all-new Volkswagen Crafter can steal market share from its established Italian rival remains to be seen, but conversions have already started to emerge.

Among the first is the Saint & Sinner from Bavarian firm Knaus. Although officially still a concept, a production model is expected to follow soon.

Red and white two-tone paintwork certainly gives the van a striking appearance. That vibrant colour scheme continues inside, where the layout holds few surprises.

Up front, the driver's and passenger's seats swivel to form a dinette with the rear travel seats. A small wash room sits amidships opposite the kitchen area. At the rear, there's a fold-up transverse double bed with storage underneath.

The base vehicle is a medium-wheelbase, high-roof Crafter which measures 5,986 mm (19’ 7”) long and has a gross plated weight of 3.5 tonnes. Power comes from a 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) 2.0 litre, four-cylinder diesel engine.

Interestingly, Knaus seems to be hedging its bets. That's because the Saint & Sinner treatment has also been applied to the aforementioned Ducato. Available to order now, the Fiat version is offered in both 600 MQ (transverse double bed) and 630 ME (longitudinal double bed) guises.

Related posts:
MAN enters the LCV market with its new TGE
2017 Volkswagen Crafter revealed

Vauxhall / Opel Crossland X first view

January 19, 2017, 3:48 pm

≫ Next: Transit Custom PHEV to be trialled in London

≪ Previous: Knaus Crafter-based camper van concept

$

0

0

In its launch photographs, the new Crossland X looks fairly bulky. Don't be deceived though, because this B-segment crossover (which will sit alongside the Mokka X in the Vauxhall and Opel ranges) is actually quite compact.

Measuring 4,212 mm (13’ 9”) long, 1,765 mm (5’ 9”) wide and 1,590 mm (5’ 2”) high, the Crossland X is about the same size as a Renault Captur. Those dimensions have been combined with a flexible interior, something that the car's target market should appreciate.

For instance, the rear seats are moveable by 150 mm (5.9”) fore and aft, so luggage capacity can be up to 520 litres when they're in use. Fold them down and that figure increases to a useful 1,255 litres.

There's plenty of in-cabin technology, too. OnStar – which, among other things, provides a wi-fi hotspot – is going to be fitted as standard, together with an infotainment system compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Further items on the extensive available equipment list include wireless inductive phone charging, a 180° rear-view camera, a head-up display, speed sign recognition and driver drowsiness detection.

Crossland X deliveries are due to begin in the summer.

Related posts:
Five Vauxhall / Opel launches planned for 2017
Mokka becomes Mokka X

Images © General Motors.

Transit Custom PHEV to be trialled in London

January 20, 2017, 3:42 pm

≫ Next: Kia Stinger European specifications announced

≪ Previous: Vauxhall / Opel Crossland X first view

$

0

0

Ford and Transport for London are collaborating on a project that's going to assess twenty plug-in hybrid Transit Custom vans. These prototype vehicles will be allocated to various fleets from autumn 2017 for a twelve-month period.

Few mechanical details have been released so, for now at least, key criteria such as recharge times and pure-electric range are unknown. That might be because powertrain development is still taking place at Ford's UK technical centre in Dunton, with assistance from Prodrive Advanced Technology and Revolve Technologies. Government cash – in the form of a £4.7M grant from the Advanced Propulsion Centre – is financially supporting the scheme.

Seeing as air quality campaigners and some politicians are already calling for diesel engine use to be curbed in London (or even banned altogether), this trial is certainly timely. Accordingly, the vans are being fitted with telematics systems to monitor numerous environmental and operational parameters.

A production version of the Transit Custom PHEV is expected to arrive in 2019.

Related post:
Plug-in Van Grant extended to heavier vehicles

---

Kia Stinger European specifications announced

January 22, 2017, 2:02 pm

≫ Next: Top 10: Irish car sales 2016

≪ Previous: Transit Custom PHEV to be trialled in London

$

0

0

Kia certainly created a stir at the North American International Auto Show earlier this month by unveiling the Stinger. Described by its maker as a fastback sports sedan, sales across Europe are due to begin during the fourth quarter of 2017.

This all-new model measures 4,830 mm (15’ 10”) from bumper to bumper. That's 25 mm (1”) shorter than the current Kia Optima, but 190 mm (7”) longer than a BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé.

Maybe Kia wants to avoid direct comparisons to certain German rivals, though. Indeed, according to Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer at Kia Motors Europe, “Stinger is a true gran turismo, a car for spirited long-distance driving. It's not about outright power, hard-edged dynamics and brutal styling, all at the expense of luxury, comfort and grace.”

Reinforcing that ethos is the availability of a 2.2 litre turbo-diesel engine which, regrettably, most European customers are expected to choose. However, there are a couple of more interesting petrol-fuelled alternatives.

Engine	Theta II petrol	Lambda II petrol	R diesel
Type	I4 turbocharged	V6 twin-turbocharged	I4 turbocharged
Displacement	1,998 cc	3,342 cc	2,199 cc
Max power	251 bhp (188 kW / 255 PS) @ 6,200 rpm	365 bhp (276 kW / 370 PS) @ 6,000 rpm	197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) @ 3,800 rpm
Max torque	353 Nm (260 lb/ft) @ 1,400-4,000 rpm	510 Nm (376 lb/ft) @ 1,300-4,500 rpm	440 Nm (325 lb/ft) @ 1,750-2,750 rpm

All three options come with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard. Furthermore, a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive is being offered – a key factor that helps to distance Stinger from the front-wheel drive only Optima.

Clearly the 3.3 litre V6 is the pick for performance fans. Kia reckons a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 5.1 seconds makes it the brand's quickest-accelerating production car ever, while top speed for this version should be around 167 mph (270 km/h).

A plug-in hybrid powertrain would probably help to convince some prospective Stinger buyers (especially any badge snobs). The absence of one therefore seems to be a major omission.

Related posts:
UK prices for the Kia Optima Sportswagon
Kia adds a plug-in hybrid to its Optima range

Top 10: Irish car sales 2016

January 23, 2017, 12:47 pm

≫ Next: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV updated for 2017

≪ Previous: Kia Stinger European specifications announced

$

0

0

Figures published by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry show that over 146,000 new cars were registered in the country during 2016. In fact, market size grew by 17.5% compared to 2015, with most of the additional volume appearing in January and February.

The mix of fuel types didn’t really vary much, though. Despite a slow yet steady decline, diesel continued to be the favoured choice. Once again, the ‘alternative’ category posted the highest percentage increase, but pure-electric and hybrid cars accounted for just 2.2% of total registrations.

Irish Car Registrations 2016 - By Fuel Type
Fuel	2016	2015	+/-	% +/-
Diesel	102,705	88,810	+13,895	+15.6%
Petrol	40,641	33,903	+6,738	+19.9%
Alternative	3,260	2,091	+1,169	+55.9%
Total	146,606	124,804	+21,802	+17.5%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

In terms of individual manufacturer performances, there were some interesting developments.

Volkswagen dropped from first to third position after a fairly flat year, thereby handing the lead to Toyota. Hyundai meanwhile moved up from fourth to the runner-up spot.

Apart from Opel and Renault swapping places (thanks mainly to the French firm launching its Kadjar compact crossover), the top ten table’s bottom half remained unaltered.

Top 10: Irish Car Registrations 2016 - By Manufacturer
Position	Manufacturer	2016	2015	+/-	% +/-
1	Toyota	15,530	13,109	+2,421	+18.5%
2	Hyundai	15,442	11,484	+3,958	+34.5%
3	Volkswagen	15,411	15,236	+175	+1.1%
4	Ford	14,606	12,052	+2,554	+21.2%
5	Nissan	11,885	11,198	+687	+6.1%
6	Škoda	9,447	7,816	+1,631	+20.9%
7	Renault	8,379	6,090	+2,289	+37.6%
8	Opel	7,888	7,483	+405	+5.4%
9	Kia	6,710	5,481	+1,229	+22.4%
10	Audi	6,066	5,224	+842	+16.1%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

The arrival of an all-new Tucson was the main reason for Hyundai’s strong overall showing. 7,425 examples were registered, thereby making this SUV the most popular model in Ireland by a huge margin. As a comparison, 2015’s equivalent number for the superseded ix35 was 3,429.

The Hyundai Tucson, Ireland's best-selling car in 2016.

Consequently, the Golf ended up being ranked second. More bad news for Volkswagen concerned the Passat, which was relegated from fifth to ninth slot.

Top 10: Irish Car Registrations 2016 - By Model
Position	Model	2016	2015	+/-	% +/-
1	Hyundai Tucson	7,425	65	+7,360	+11,323.1%
2	Volkswagen Golf	5,464	5,820	-356	-6.1%
3	Ford Focus	4,835	4,364	+471	+10.8%
4	Škoda Octavia	4,660	3,887	+773	+19.9%
5	Nissan Qashqai	4,591	4,163	+428	+10.3%
6	Ford Fiesta	3,827	3,474	+353	+10.2%
7	Toyota Corolla	3,751	3,474	+277	+8.0%
8	Toyota Yaris	3,727	2,840	+887	+31.2%
9	Volkswagen Passat	3,658	3,743	-85	-2.3%
10	Kia Sportage	2,871	2,589	+282	+10.9%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

Related posts:
Top 10: Irish car sales 2015
Top 10: Irish car sales 2014

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV updated for 2017

January 24, 2017, 3:43 pm

≫ Next: Three Commodore limited editions unveiled

≪ Previous: Top 10: Irish car sales 2016

$

0

0

A series of small changes might make the all-wheel drive Outlander plug-in hybrid a slightly more practical proposition.

Okay, an increase in pure electric range from 32 to 33 miles (52 to 54 kilometres) definitely won't be noticed, but battery recharge time has been usefully cut. Replenishment to 80% capacity via a rapid charger now takes 25 minutes, which is five minutes quicker than before.

Additionally, an improved regenerative braking system has contributed to better efficiency figures. On the official combined cycle, the 2017 Outlander PHEV achieves 166.1 mpg (1.7 l/100km) instead of 156.9 mpg (1.8 l/100km) as previously. Carbon dioxide emissions meanwhile are down by 1 g/km to 41 g/km.

New features include an EV Priority Mode that ensures the 2.0 litre petrol engine doesn't start up when driving. Also fitted for the first time are an electronic parking brake and a brake auto-hold function.

Mitsubishi is offering the revised Outlander PHEV in a choice of 3h, 4h, 4hs, 5h or 5hs trim grades. Prices start at £34,749 (excluding the government's £2,500 Plug-in Car Grant).

Related post:
The Outlander PHEV gets set to go rallying

Three Commodore limited editions unveiled

January 25, 2017, 10:54 am

≫ Next: The Toyota Yaris gets a new petrol engine

≪ Previous: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV updated for 2017

$

0

0

Sadly, the current Holden Commodore will soon be replaced by a rebadged Vauxhall / Opel Insignia Grand Sport. So, to commemorate the rear-wheel drive model’s imminent passing, three special versions have been created.

The Motorsport Edition sedan and Magnum ute are both based on the existing SS-V trim grade, while the Director takes the Calais V as its starting point.

As well as a 6.2 litre LS3 V8, all three feature numerous cosmetic and performance enhancements.

Motorsport Edition

Production volume	1,200 units
Price in Australia	A$61,790 (manual transmission) A$63,990 (automatic transmission)
Additional specification includes	Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping with Tour, Sport and Performance settings Lightweight cross-drilled floating brake discs with Brembo calipers Enhanced engine and transmission cooling 20” split forged alloy wheels Boot lid spoiler Phantom Black roof Heated sports front seats

Magnum

Production volume	240 units
Price in Australia	A$59,290 (manual transmission) A$61,490 (automatic transmission)
Additional specification includes	FE3 rear suspension package Lightweight cross-drilled floating brake discs with Brembo calipers Enhanced engine and transmission cooling 20” split forged alloy wheels Hard tonneau cover Rear window graphic Sports seats

Director

Production volume	360 units
Price in Australia	A$63,990 (automatic transmission)
Additional specification includes	Magnetic Ride Control adaptive damping with Tour, Sport and Performance settings Lightweight cross-drilled floating brake discs with Brembo calipers Enhanced engine and transmission cooling 20” split forged alloy wheels Boot lid spoiler Phantom Black roof Bonnet vents Heated sports front seats Paddle shifters Alloy pedals

Related posts:
Holden Commodore Black Editions launched
Holden Commodore VFII unveiled
GM to end manufacturing in Australia

Images © General Motors.

The Toyota Yaris gets a new petrol engine

January 25, 2017, 1:05 pm

≫ Next: Škoda launches the Kodiaq Scout

≪ Previous: Three Commodore limited editions unveiled

$

0

0

Given the current trend for small-capacity, three-cylinder, turbocharged engines, Toyota’s decision to stick a 1.5 litre, four-cylinder, normally-aspirated petrol unit in the 2017 Yaris supermini might come as a surprise.

A replacement for the long-serving (and very precisely-named) 1.33 litre motor, it’s a member of the ESTEC (Economy with Superior Thermal Efficiency) engine family.

Accordingly, special features include a cooled exhaust gas recirculation system, a water-cooled exhaust manifold and a high 13.5:1 compression ratio. What’s more, electronically-controlled variable inlet valve timing allows a switch between the Otto and Atkinson combustion cycles.

The result is 110 bhp (82 kW / 111 PS) plus 136 Nm (100 lb/ft) of peak torque. Acceleration from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes a fairly respectable 11.0 seconds, which is 0.8 seconds quicker than its 1.33 litre predecessor managed.

Oddly, Toyota hasn’t released any efficiency figures, but a 12 percent reduction in fuel consumption is claimed.

Related posts:
A high performance Yaris is coming
2017 Toyota Yaris WRC unveiled

Škoda launches the Kodiaq Scout

January 26, 2017, 12:16 pm

≫ Next: Škoda introduces the Kodiaq Sportline

≪ Previous: The Toyota Yaris gets a new petrol engine

$

0

0

Standard-fit all-wheel drive should mean the Kodiaq Scout’s all-terrain ability lives up to its more rugged look.

This new variant also comes with the Off-Road Assist package, plus ground clearance is a fairly decent 194 mm (7.6”). Other indicators of prowess over rough ground are the approach, ramp break-over and departure angles, which Škoda says are 22.0°, 19.7° and 23.1° respectively.

Front and rear under-body protection, silver-colour door mirror caps, rear privacy glass and a set of 19” alloy wheels identify the Scout. Inside, the specification includes Alcantara upholstery and an eight-speaker audio system.

Customers will get a choice of four engines:

• 1.4 litre TSI petrol - 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS)
• 2.0 litre TSI petrol - 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS)
• 2.0 litre TDI diesel - 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS)
• 2.0 litre TDI diesel - 187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS)

UK prices and an on-sale date have yet to be confirmed.

Related post:
Top 10: New cars due in 2017

Škoda introduces the Kodiaq Sportline

January 27, 2017, 12:41 pm

≫ Next: The Nissan Titan gains a King Cab option

≪ Previous: Škoda launches the Kodiaq Scout

$

0

0

Is there such a thing as too much choice? When it comes to the Kodiaq SUV, Škoda clearly doesn’t think so.

Customers are faced with a selection of five engines, two transmissions, front- or all-wheel drive, five- or seven-seat interiors and now – with the arrival of a Sportline variant – six trim grades.

As its name suggests, the new Sportline is intended to add a sporty-looking model to the range. Based on the existing SE, unique features include redesigned bumpers and a black finish for the door mirror caps, radiator grille, roof rails and window trims. A set of 19” alloy wheels and rear privacy glass are also part of the specification.

Inside, front sports seats, Alcantara upholstery, aluminium pedals and a leather-covered steering wheel all help to create a suitable ambiance.

The Sportline comes with all-wheel drive as standard. Škoda isn’t offering this version with the Kodiaq’s lowest-powered engine, so that leaves four to pick from:

• 1.4 litre TSI petrol - 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS)
• 2.0 litre TSI petrol - 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS)
• 2.0 litre TDI diesel - 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS)
• 2.0 litre TDI diesel - 187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS)

For those buyers requiring a slightly sportier driving experience, Dynamic Chassis Control (three-mode variable damping) and a 20” wheel upgrade appear on the options list.

Related posts:
Škoda launches the Kodiaq Scout
Top 10: New cars due in 2017

---

The Nissan Titan gains a King Cab option

February 9, 2017, 3:13 pm

≫ Next: Škoda updates the Citigo for 2017

≪ Previous: Škoda introduces the Kodiaq Sportline

$

0

0

When the current Titan full-size pick-up was first announced a couple of years ago, Nissan promised that the range would include a King Cab configuration. Now, at last, it's here.

Distinguished by a pair of rear-hinged rear doors, the King Cab is paired with a 1.98 metre (6’ 6”) cargo bed. Inside, there's seating for up to six people, but the fold-up rear bench is deletable to provide extra storage space.

This new cab style is available for the Titan and Titan XD. Both versions are being offered with either four- or rear-wheel drive and a choice of S, SV or PRO-4X trim grades.

Power is provided by the familiar 390 bhp (290 kW / 395 PS) 5.6 litre Endurance gasoline V8 engine that's mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Alternatively, XD models can be ordered with a Cummins 5.0 litre turbocharged diesel V8 which delivers 310 bhp (231 kW / 314 PS) and 752 Nm (555 lb/ft) of torque via a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The Titan King Cab is due to arrive at Nissan dealers across North America this spring.

Related posts:
2017 non-XD Nissan Titan launched
2016 Nissan Titan XD pick-up unveiled

Škoda updates the Citigo for 2017

February 10, 2017, 3:18 pm

≫ Next: Mercedes-Benz has launched a new black cab

≪ Previous: The Nissan Titan gains a King Cab option

$

0

0

It's been five years since Škoda's Citigo first arrived at dealers, so the diminutive city car was probably overdue a refresh.

Only dedicated car spotters are going to notice the external alterations though, because they're rather subtle. The modified bonnet gains a slightly raised centre section, there are some new wheel designs and the front bumper now has a full-width air intake that incorporates the fog lights.

The situation is very similar inside, where changes are limited to a revised instrument cluster and the introduction of an umbrella storage space beneath the front passenger seat. A leather-covered multi-function steering wheel now appears on the options list, too.

2017 Citigo buyers in the UK will have a choice of S, SE, SE L, Monte Carlo and Colour Edition trim grades. As before, power comes from a 1.0 litre, three-cylinder petrol engine which produces either 59 bhp (44 kW / 60 PS) or 73 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS).

Related posts:
Škoda announces more Monte Carlo models
Five-door Škoda Citigo

Mercedes-Benz has launched a new black cab

February 11, 2017, 3:33 pm

≫ Next: An engine downsize for the 2017 Isuzu D-Max

≪ Previous: Škoda updates the Citigo for 2017

$

0

0

Taking a ride in a black cab is on the 'to do' lists of many visitors to London. Of course, they probably envisage hailing a traditionally-shaped LTI TX4 or Metrocab, not a converted van.

Well, that's essentially what the Vito Taxi is. A new model, based on the third-generation Vito 114 CDI Compact, has just been unveiled by Mercedes-Benz. It replaces the version which first appeared in 2008.

In order to comply with Public Carriage Office regulations, the latest Vito Taxi is fitted with some very specific features. Key among them is a steering rear axle that enables the mandatory 25 feet (7.62 metres) turning circle to be achieved. Furthermore, the six-seat passenger compartment is wheelchair accessible.

Other standard-specification items include Attention Assist to detect driver drowsiness, electrically-operated sliding doors and powered entrance steps.

A 2.1 litre diesel engine mated to a 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission means the Vito Taxi is hardly future-proof. Nevertheless, it is Euro 6-compliant and a stop-start system should help to reduce exhaust fumes.

For operators outside of the capital, a 'National' variant is also being offered that has a regular fixed rear axle. This is available in front-wheel drive 109 CDI and rear-wheel drive 114 CDI guises, plus customers can choose either Compact or Long body lengths.

Related posts:
Frazer-Nash Metrocab unveiled in London
Nissan NV200 Taxi for London

An engine downsize for the 2017 Isuzu D-Max

February 12, 2017, 3:50 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Harley-Davidson Road King Special

≪ Previous: Mercedes-Benz has launched a new black cab

$

0

0

Isuzu has confirmed that the D-Max pick-up is getting a smaller-capacity 1.9 litre turbo-diesel engine. It's Euro 6-compliant but, because nitrogen oxide emissions aren't controlled via selective catalytic reduction, an AdBlue exhaust fluid tank isn't required.

Although performance and efficiency figures have yet to be announced, peak output and torque are rated at 161 bhp (120 kW / 164 PS) and 360 Nm (265 lb/ft) respectively. By comparison, the outgoing 2.5 litre unit produces 160 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb/ft).

Despite the lost displacement, maximum braked towing weight will still be an impressive 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs).

Deliveries of the 2017 D-Max are due to start in the spring.

Related post:
Isuzu introduces the D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35

2017 Harley-Davidson Road King Special

February 13, 2017, 3:14 pm

≫ Next: Mitsubishi has named its new crossover

≪ Previous: An engine downsize for the 2017 Isuzu D-Max

$

0

0

Black components, a larger headlight nacelle, 'Turbine' cast wheels and the lack of any windscreen distinguish the new 2017 Road King Special.

Those aren't the bike's only identifying features, though. Others include an unadorned front mudguard, 9”-high mini-ape handlebars and a low-set numberplate mount. Completing the look are redesigned pannier cases which visually stretch themselves over both exhausts.

Power is provided by an unchanged 1,746 cc (107 cu. in.) Milwaukee-Eight V-twin engine that comes mated to a six-speed transmission.

The 2017 Road King Special is available in a choice of Vivid Black, Charcoal Denim, Olive Gold or Hot Rod Red Flake Hard Candy Custom paintwork.

Depending on the colour scheme selected, starting prices range from £19,995 to £21,135 in the United Kingdom. The corresponding amounts for the United States are $21,999 to $24,399.

Related posts:
Interbrand’s most valuable auto brands of 2016
2016 Harley-Davidson Roadster launched