All-new 2018 Subaru XV unveiled

March 11, 2017, 12:00 pm

≫ Next: 2018 Toyota Yaris GRMN first view

≪ Previous: Fiat celebrates the Nuova 500’s 60th birthday

$

0

0

Despite looking very similar to its predecessor, Subaru says the latest XV crossover is a clean-sheet design.

Underpinning the car is the brand’s new ‘Global Platform’ which is claimed to have improved torsional rigidity by 70%. Consequently, the suspension mounts have been made stiffer and the steering ratio reduced, so driving dynamics and refinement should be better than before.

Naturally, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive continues to be part of the XV’s standard specification. Now, though, enhanced all-surface ability is promised thanks to X-Mode. This system adjusts the power delivery and may even apply the brakes when a loss of traction is detected. Ground clearance meanwhile is a useful 220 mm (8.7”).

The normally-aspirated 2.0 litre FB-series petrol engine has been thoroughly revamped, too. Indeed, Subaru reckons that 80% of this four-cylinder boxer unit’s components are revised. Output is up slightly to 154 bhp (115 kW / 156 PS), but peak torque remains at 196 Nm (145 lb/ft).

There’s no word yet on a diesel alternative, but expect one to still be offered.

Similarly, neither pricing nor an on-sale date have been confirmed.

Related posts:
Subaru has updated the BRZ for 2017
Subaru XV refreshed for 2016

---

2018 Toyota Yaris GRMN first view

March 12, 2017, 9:04 am

≫ Next: Volkswagen ‘70 Years of the Bulli’ edition

≪ Previous: All-new 2018 Subaru XV unveiled

$

0

0

Whether Toyota likes it or not, the Yaris GRMN is bound to earn the nickname ‘Gremlin’. Those initials actually stand for ‘Gazoo Racing tuned by Meister of Nürburgring’, which is clearly much more of a mouthful.

This new hot hatch has been inspired by the brand’s return to the FIA World Rally Championship. Available in three-door guise only, model-specific features include redesigned bumpers, a rear spoiler, 17” BBS alloy wheels, body graphics and front sports seats.

All of that is largely cosmetic, though. Of course, the mechanical bits are much more important, but thankfully Toyota hasn’t neglected them.

In an era when most modern engines seem to have a turbocharger, the decision to equip the Yaris GRMN with a supercharged 1.8 litre motor certainly goes against the grain. An output of “more than 210 PS” (around 155 kW) will be sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and a Torsen limited-slip differential.

Chassis modifications meanwhile comprise a strut brace between the front suspension towers, a thicker front anti-roll bar, shorter springs and bespoke Sachs dampers. The brakes have been upgraded, too.

Performance figures and pricing have yet to be announced, but Toyota has said that sales are due to start across Europe during the early part of 2018.

Related posts:
The Toyota Yaris gets a new petrol engine
2017 Toyota Yaris WRC unveiled

Volkswagen ‘70 Years of the Bulli’ edition

March 12, 2017, 4:33 pm

≫ Next: Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR updated for 2017

≪ Previous: 2018 Toyota Yaris GRMN first view

$

0

0

When the Volkswagen Type 2 van was introduced in 1950, people in Germany soon gave it the nickname ‘Bulli’. Now, that same moniker is being used officially for a special model based on the current Transporter Multivan.

The ‘70 Years of the Bulli’ edition commemorates the anniversary of Volkswagen’s Dutch importer, Ben Pol, visiting the Wolfsburg factory. Seeing the ‘Plattenwagen’, a cobbled-together parts mover, he came up with the rough concept for a cargo-carrying vehicle.

As well as some ‘Bulli’ badges, the exterior gains 17” Davenport wheels (unfortunately, 18” Disc wheels will cost extra), tinted windows and some additional chrome. For a properly retro look, the optional two-tone Candy White and Metallic Kurkuma Yellow colour scheme really needs to be ordered.

Inside, the main feature is a dark wood floor covering, but Visitamo upholstery and gloss black dashboard trim pieces contribute to the ambience too. The enhanced specification also includes ParkPilot front and rear, heated and power-folding door mirrors, a Premium multifunction display and a leather-covered steering wheel.

Customers in Germany can order the ‘70 Years of the Bulli’ edition from the beginning of May. Availability in the UK (where admittedly the ‘Bullli’ label doesn’t mean much) hasn’t been decided yet.

Related posts:
T6 Transporter Sportline launched in the UK
Volkswagen Multivan PanAmericana launched

Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR updated for 2017

March 13, 2017, 3:41 pm

≫ Next: Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV launched

≪ Previous: Volkswagen ‘70 Years of the Bulli’ edition

$

0

0

Following its first year of competition, Volkswagen Motorsport has tweaked the Golf GTI TCR for the upcoming season.

The main focus has been on improving the aerodynamics, but strict series regulations don’t really give manufacturers much scope to change things.

Nevertheless, Volkswagen has tried to reduce drag by altering the car’s vents and fender profiles. Furthermore, power delivery from the 345 bhp (257 kW / 350 PS) 2.0 litre engine has been modified, control of the sequential transmission is now better and a new electric power steering system has been fitted.

Each car carries a price tag of €90,000 (around £78,500 at current exchange rates) plus VAT. Volkswagen is expecting to deliver thirty examples to customer teams during 2017.

Related posts:
Opel unveils its 2016 Astra TCR
Volkswagen builds a TCR competitor

Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV launched

March 14, 2017, 4:12 pm

≫ Next: Force India adopts a striking livery for 2017

≪ Previous: Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR updated for 2017

$

0

0

Following the introduction of Kia’s Optima Plug-in Hybrid saloon in 2016, a Sportswagon estate version has been unveiled. It’s a logical move, especially considering the threats being made by numerous cities to restrict or even ban diesel-fuelled vehicles.

The powertrain is carried over from the four-door unchanged. That means a 154 bhp (115 kW / 156 PS) 2.0 litre direct-injection ‘Nu’ petrol engine is combined with a 67 bhp (50 kW / 68 PS) electric motor.

Total system output is rated at 202 bhp (150 kW / 205 PS), with 375 Nm (276 lb/ft) of peak torque available. Delivery is to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.

Thanks to an 11.26 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack and regenerative braking, pure-electric range is anticipated to exceed 37 miles (60 kilometres) at speeds of up to 75 mph (120 km/h). Provisional New European Driving Cycle efficiency figures are 188.3 mpg (1.5 l/100km) with CO2 emissions of 34 g/km.

One obvious reason for choosing the estate over the saloon is extra practicality. Indeed, luggage capacity for the former is 440 litres, but that volume increases to 1,574 litres with the 40:20:40-split rear seats folded flat.

Sales of the Korean-built Optima Sportswagon Plug-in Hybrid are due to begin across Europe during the third quarter of 2017. Prices have yet to be revealed.

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

Force India adopts a striking livery for 2017

March 15, 2017, 12:22 pm

≫ Next: Harley-Davidson introduces the new Street Rod

≪ Previous: Kia Optima Sportswagon PHEV launched

$

0

0

A last-minute sponsorship deal with Austrian firm Best Water Technology Group has meant a new colour scheme for Force India.

Out goes the familiar silver-with-orange-highlights look. Instead, this year’s VJM10 cars now wear attractive (and extremely conspicuous) pink and magenta paintwork with a matte finish.

Teams such as Force India and McLaren (with its predominantly orange MCL32) are certainly going to add some vibrancy to 2017’s Formula One grid. Hopefully the racing will be equally spectacular.

Related posts:
Force India reveals its 2017 car
2017 Formula One calendar revised

Image © Force India F1 Team

Harley-Davidson introduces the new Street Rod

March 16, 2017, 4:41 pm

≫ Next: Lightweight Lotus Elise Sprint unveiled

≪ Previous: Force India adopts a striking livery for 2017

$

0

0

Compared to a regular Street 750, the 2017 Street Rod looks much more purposeful thanks to its unique 17” alloy wheels, colour-coded headlight cowl, bar-end mirrors and shorter tail unit.

Performance should be better, too. A High-Output version of the Revolution X 750 V-twin engine boasts 65 Nm (47 lb/ft) of peak torque instead of the usual 59 Nm (44 lb/ft), plus power output is up by 18 percent. Modifications to the cylinder heads, camshafts, throttle body and air intake are responsible for those increases.

Agility and handling have also been improved. Upgraded suspension components include an upside-down front fork which sees rake angle reduced by 5° to 27°. The rear end meanwhile gains a slightly longer swing-arm and twin coil-over dampers with external reservoirs.

Street Rod prices in the UK start from £6,745 with Vivid Black paintwork. That amount represents a premium of £750 versus the cost of a basic Street 750.

Alternatively, customers can order Charcoal Denim or Olive Gold colour schemes for their Street Rod. Doing so would mean the required outlay rises to £6,995, though.

Related posts:
2017 Harley-Davidson Road King Special
2016 Harley-Davidson Roadster launched

Lightweight Lotus Elise Sprint unveiled

March 18, 2017, 8:32 am

≫ Next: Citroën E-Berlingo Multispace confirmed

≪ Previous: Harley-Davidson introduces the new Street Rod

$

0

0

Next month will see the arrival of another Elise variant. The new Sprint, which is going to slot in between the existing Sport and Cup 250 models, has been on a strict diet.

Indeed, when powered by a normally-aspirated 1.6 litre engine delivering 134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS), dry weight is just 803 kg (1,770 lbs). Numerous special components have made such a figure possible.

They include forged alloy wheels, a polycarbonate rear screen, carbon race seats, an 'open-gate' gear-change mechanism and a lithium-ion battery. Furthermore, the engine cover, front access panel and roll hoop cover are all made from carbon fibre.

If an even lighter car is required, then selecting two-piece brake discs and carbon fibre sill covers from the options list brings the Sprint's mass down to 798 kg (1,759 lbs).

A Sprint 220 version is also being offered that features a 217 bhp (162 kW / 220 PS) 1.8 litre supercharged motor. It tips the scales at 851 kg (1,876 lbs), or 845 kg (1,862 lbs) with the aforementioned extras.

For both the Sprint and Sprint 220, less bulk promises enhanced driving dynamics and stronger performance compared to their Sport counterparts. The 0-62 mph (100 km/h) times aren't dramatically better, though:

• Elise Sport – 6.5 seconds
• Elise Sprint – 6.3 seconds
• Elise Sport 220 – 4.6 seconds
• Elise Sprint 220 – 4.5 seconds

Of course, that one benchmark doesn't tell the whole story.

UK prices for the Elise Sprint start at £37,300, while the Sprint 220 costs from £44,300.

Related posts:
Lotus reveals the Elise 250 Special Edition
Lotus introduces the quickest Elise ever

---

Citroën E-Berlingo Multispace confirmed

March 21, 2017, 4:17 pm

≫ Next: Honda’s NM4 Vultus stars in Ghost In The Shell

≪ Previous: Lightweight Lotus Elise Sprint unveiled

$

0

0

Following last month’s unveiling of the Peugeot Partner Tepee Electric, Citroën has revealed its virtually identical E-Berlingo Multispace.

Unsurprisingly, both of these zero-emissions MPVs share the same technical specification. Therefore Citroën’s new model is powered by an electric motor that develops 65 bhp (49 kW / 67 PS) with 200 Nm (147 lb/ft) of peak torque.

Energy is stored in two lithium-ion battery packs, which have a combined capacity of 22.5 kWh.

They can be replenished to 80% via a CHAdeMO-compatible DC rapid charger in half an hour. Alternatively, a Type 2 cable takes eight hours to do a full recharge, while an ordinary domestic socket adds another two hours to the required time.

Prospective owners should expect to do a lot of plugging-in, because NEDC driving range is a disappointing 106 miles (170 kilometres). In reality, that figure is probably fine for most day-to-day urban journeys, but clearly longer trips are going to demand some forward planning.

Although prices haven’t been published yet, Citroën says that they’ll include the cost of the batteries (thereby negating the need for a separate lease arrangement).

E-Berlingo Multispace deliveries are due to begin towards the end of this year.

Related post:
Peugeot announces the Partner Tepee Electric

Honda’s NM4 Vultus stars in Ghost In The Shell

March 22, 2017, 4:34 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Abarth 595 Trofeo UK prices announced

≪ Previous: Citroën E-Berlingo Multispace confirmed

$

0

0

Japanese manga and anime inspired the unconventional Honda NM4 Vultus, so it’s appropriate that a specially modified example is being used in Ghost In The Shell.

This new feature film, which stars Scarlett Johansson, is the latest instalment of an eponymous franchise that began with a manga comic in 1989.

Honda designers and the film’s production staff have collaborated to create a unique motorcycle. Disc wheels, minimal rear bodywork and plenty of carbon fibre are among the alterations that make the standard model appear rather dull by comparison.

Ghost In The Shell opens in UK cinemas on the 31st of March.

Related post:
Unusual Honda NM4 Vultus unveiled

2017 Abarth 595 Trofeo UK prices announced

March 23, 2017, 12:52 pm

≫ Next: Fiat’s Fullback Cross is for ‘lifestyle’ customers

≪ Previous: Honda’s NM4 Vultus stars in Ghost In The Shell

$

0

0

Abarth has confirmed specifications and pricing for its new 595 Trofeo, which arrives at UK dealers later this month.

Power is provided by a 1.4 litre TJet turbocharged petrol engine that comes with a four-tailpipe Record Monza exhaust. Output is rated at 158 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS), plus 230 Nm (170 lb/ft) of peak torque is available in Sport mode.

Those figures mean the 595 Trofeo can accelerate from standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.3 seconds, before maxing out at 135 mph (217 km/h).

Efficiency doesn’t seem too bad either, as 47.1 mpg (6.0 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 139 g/km have been recorded on the official combined cycle. That’s despite having to make do with just a five-speed manual gearbox.

In hatchback guise, the 2017 595 Trofeo costs from £17,290. Alternatively, the convertible version is £2,000 more expensive.

The standard specification includes 17” matt black ‘Formula’ alloy wheels, shock absorbers with Frequency Selective Damping valves, a Uconnect touchscreen-controlled infotainment system, black fabric upholstery and Abarth Red paintwork.

Four other exterior finishes are being offered. However, Campovolo Grey and Gara White are £350 options, while Scorpione Black and Record Grey each add £500 to the invoice.

Related posts:
The Abarth 595 gets a minor facelift
Abarth 595 OT race car revealed

Fiat’s Fullback Cross is for ‘lifestyle’ customers

March 24, 2017, 4:33 pm

≫ Next: DS 3 Inès de la Fressange edition unveiled

≪ Previous: 2017 Abarth 595 Trofeo UK prices announced

$

0

0

Three factors should help the new Fullback Cross appeal to people who are considering buying a pick-up as their daily driver.

1. It looks eye-catching without being too flashy

As well as a complete lack of chrome, the Cross version is distinguished by a satin silver skid plate, bi-xenon headlights, larger side steps and a ‘sport bar’ that’s mounted atop the cargo box.

Wisely, Fiat has resisted the temptation to apply any gaudy bodywork graphics.

2. The standard specification is more than adequate

Leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, seven airbags, cruise control and lane departure warning all appear on the list.

In addition, there’s a touchscreen-controlled infotainment system that boasts satellite navigation, a DAB radio, a CD player and Bluetooth connectivity. It also displays the output from a rear reversing camera.

The engine is a 2.4 litre turbocharged diesel unit which produces 177 bhp (133 kW / 180 PS) with 430 Nm (317 lb/ft) of torque. That output gets sent to a four-mode all-wheel drive system via either a six-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automatic transmission.

3. Finding a dealer won’t be a problem

All other Fullback variants are retailed through Fiat Professional commercial vehicle outlets only. However, when sales begin in the summer, the Cross will be available from Fiat car showrooms too.

Pricing has yet to be confirmed.

Related posts:
UK prices for the Fiat Fullback announced
2016 Mitsubishi L200 UK prices announced

DS 3 Inès de la Fressange edition unveiled

March 26, 2017, 3:13 pm

≫ Next: 2018 SsangYong Rexton first view

≪ Previous: Fiat’s Fullback Cross is for ‘lifestyle’ customers

$

0

0

For the latest addition to its range, DS Automobiles has collaborated with Inès de la Fressange Paris to create a fashion-inspired limited edition.

Based on the existing Elegance trim grade, the DS 3 Inès de la Fressange mixes Ink Blue paintwork with an Opal White roof. Further contrast is provided by an Inès Red finish for the door mirror caps and wheel centres.

There's a similar colour palette inside, where Granit Blue grained leather upholstery sits alongside an Inès Red dashboard panel.

Standard equipment includes 17” Aphrodite black diamond-cut alloy wheels, xenon headlights, automatic lights and wipers, satellite navigation, a DAB radio and the Convenience Pack.

Unique badges, bespoke floor mats and an Inès de la Fressange 'Voyageur' leather bag complete the car's specification.

Prices – which reflect the revised Vehicle Excise Duty rates being introduced on the 1st of April 2017 – depend on the powertrain.

DS is offering a choice of 108 bhp (81 kW / 110 PS) 1,199 cc three-cylinder PureTech petrol or 98 bhp (73 kW / 100 PS) 1,560 cc four-cylinder BlueHDi diesel turbocharged engines:

• PureTech with a five-speed manual transmission - £20,310
• PureTech with a six-speed automatic transmission - £21,830
• BlueHDi with a five-speed manual transmission - £20,890

In total, just 200 examples of the DS 3 Inès de la Fressange will be available in the UK. Deliveries are scheduled to begin during May.

Related post:
Top 10: Factory-built sleeper cars

2018 SsangYong Rexton first view

March 28, 2017, 11:58 am

≫ Next: Peugeot launches the 208 Black Edition

≪ Previous: DS 3 Inès de la Fressange edition unveiled

$

0

0

SsangYong has released some images of its new Rexton, ahead of the SUV’s public debut at the Seoul Motor Show later this week.

The body, which is made from 63% advanced high strength steel for greater rigidity with less weight, measures 4,850 mm (15’ 11”) long. In other words, the 2018 Rexton is roughly the same size as a BMW X5.

Technical specifications have yet to be divulged, but SsangYong is saying that a selection of diesel and petrol engines will be offered.

Unfortunately, certain elements of the exterior styling seem somewhat incoherent. By contrast, the interior design appears to work extremely well, especially the uncluttered dashboard that features a central 9.2” HD monitor.

International deliveries of the Rexton are due to begin towards the end of 2017. Customers in Korea can get hold of one sooner though, as sales there are set to start mid-year.

Related post:
SsangYong Turismo Tourist camper unveiled

Peugeot launches the 208 Black Edition

March 29, 2017, 11:55 am

≫ Next: Toyota Australia creates a one-off Tonka Hilux

≪ Previous: 2018 SsangYong Rexton first view

$

0

0

Given it’s available with a choice of Nera Black, Hurricane Grey or Bianca White paintwork, the new 208 Black Edition is somewhat misnamed.

However, Peugeot could argue that the grille, front fog light surrounds, door mirror caps and 16” ‘Titane’ alloy wheels all have a gloss black finish. In fairness, plenty of manufacturers would deem such minor changes reason enough to recycle the over-used ‘Black Edition’ moniker.

Cruise control, a DAB radio and a 7” colour touchscreen are also part of the car’s enhanced specification. Connectivity shouldn’t be a problem, as the infotainment system supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, MirrorLink and Bluetooth.

The 208 Black Edition is being offered in three-door form only. Power comes from an 80 bhp (60 kW / 82 PS) 1.2 litre PureTech petrol engine, which is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Prices in the UK start at £14,595.

Related posts:
The run-out Honda Civic Type R Black Edition
Ram launches the 1500 Rebel Black edition

---

Toyota Australia creates a one-off Tonka Hilux

March 30, 2017, 2:30 pm

≫ Next: 2017 Porsche 919 Hybrid revealed

≪ Previous: Peugeot launches the 208 Black Edition

$

0

0

Toyota’s Australian subsidiary has built a unique Hilux pick-up that’s designed for extreme off-road use. As its name suggests, the Tonka Concept was inspired by the toy truck maker.

The project is based on an SR5 double cab, which features a 2.8 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine.

To cope with rough terrain, larger tyres are fitted, the suspension is stronger and the ride height has been raised by 150 mm (5.9”). Essential under-body protection is provided by a thick front-mounted aluminium bash plate and tubular side rails.

Other bespoke components include a modified front bumper, carbon fibre skins for the bonnet and tailgate, additional LED lights and a snorkel system.

As well as a spare wheel, the cargo area holds equipment boxes and extra fuel tanks. Everything is kept in place by a removable tubular frame.

Unfortunately, a production version isn’t planned, but Toyota will be showing the Hilux Tonka Concept at various events across Australia.

Related posts:
2017 Dakar Rally Toyota Hilux Evo unveiled
2016 Toyota Hilux specifications confirmed

2017 Porsche 919 Hybrid revealed

April 1, 2017, 11:32 am

≫ Next: 2017 Toyota TS050 Hybrid unveiled

≪ Previous: Toyota Australia creates a one-off Tonka Hilux

$

0

0

Porsche’s FIA World Endurance Championship ambitions for 2017 are simple: win the manufacturers’ title, win the drivers’ title and win the 24 Hours of Le Mans race (all for a third consecutive time). The absence of Audi this season makes achieving those objectives slightly easier.

However, Toyota should still prove to be a fierce LMP1 competitor, so Porsche has updated its 919 Hybrid challenger.

Around two-thirds of the car’s components are new. In particular, the aerodynamics have been significantly affected by revised regulations that reduce downforce and permit just two different configurations.

As before, a 2.0 litre V4 turbocharged petrol engine delivering around 493 bhp (368 kW / 500 PS) drives the rear axle, while an electric motor sends 394 bhp (294 kW / 400 PS) to the front axle when needed.

A lithium-ion battery is fed by a front-axle brake energy recovery system and an exhaust energy recovery system. The latter comprises a small turbine set within the exhaust tract that spins at over 120,000 rpm, powering a generator in the process.

Once again the 919 Hybrid has been engineered to run in the 8 megajoules class. Combined with a minimum weight of 875 kg (1,929 lbs), it can accelerate from rest to 124 mph (200 km/h) in just 4.8 seconds.

Regarding the driver line-up, Neel Jani (Switzerland), André Lotterer (Germany) and Nick Tandy (Great Britain) are in the #1 car. Timo Bernhard (Germany) Earl Bamber (New Zealand) and Brendon Hartley (New Zealand) are sharing the #2 Porsche.

Related post:
2017 Toyota TS050 Hybrid unveiled

2017 Toyota TS050 Hybrid unveiled

April 1, 2017, 11:33 am

≫ Next: The Golf GTE has had a price reduction

≪ Previous: 2017 Porsche 919 Hybrid revealed

$

0

0

Toyota Gazoo Racing has revealed the updated TS050 Hybrid that is going to compete in this year’s FIA World Endurance Championship.

Its 2.4 litre V6 turbocharged petrol engine runs at a higher compression ratio than before, plus thermal efficiency has been improved. Furthermore, the revised 8 megajoule LMP1 hybrid system now features smaller and lighter motor-generator units.

Revised regulations have resulted in some major changes to the aerodynamics. For instance, the rear diffuser is narrower, the front splitter sits 15 mm (0.2”) higher and the side pods are noticeably different.

In addition, only two aerodynamic configurations are permitted in 2017. Consequently, the team must decide whether to use either a low or a high downforce set-up at each circuit.

Mike Conway (Great Britain), Kamui Kobayashi (Japan) and José María López (Argentina) have been named as drivers for the #7 car, while Anthony Davidson (Great Britain), Sébastien Buemi (Switzerland) and Kazuki Nakajima (Japan) will campaign the #8 Toyota.

At Spa-Francorchamps and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the #9 TS050 Hybrid is also scheduled to race, with Stéphane Sarrazin (France), Yuji Kunimoto (Japan) and Nicolas Lapierre (France) behind the wheel.

Related post:
2017 Porsche 919 Hybrid revealed

The Golf GTE has had a price reduction

April 3, 2017, 11:50 am

≫ Next: Mercedes-AMG reveals its 2017 DTM liveries

≪ Previous: 2017 Toyota TS050 Hybrid unveiled

$

0

0

To coincide with the arrival of an updated Golf GTE, Volkswagen has decided to cut the UK price of its five-door hybrid.

The regular GTE now costs £30,635 on the road, which is £3,420 less than before. Alternatively, a new (and better equipped) GTE Advance version sells for £32,135.

Both of those amounts exclude the government’s Plug-in Car Grant. Currently worth £2,500, this useful subsidy gets automatically applied by the supplying dealer.

Powering the Golf GTE is a 148 bhp (110 kW / 150 PS) 1.4 litre petrol engine and a 100 bhp (75 kW / 102 PS) electric motor. Combined output is rated at 201 bhp (150 kW / 204 PS), which is delivered via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Thanks to an 8.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, pure-electric range is a fairly decent 31 miles (50 kilometres). Recharging takes 3 hours 45 minutes when using a domestic mains outlet, or 2 hours 15 minutes if a dedicated 3.6 kW wallbox is available.

Performance is very respectable. Indeed, the hybrid Golf can sprint from standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 7.6 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 138 mph (222 km/h).

However, most prospective buyers will probably be more interested in efficiency.

They shouldn’t be disappointed, as the GTE achieves 166.2 mpg (1.7 l/100km) on the official combined cycle while emitting 38 g/km of CO2. The equivalent figures for the GTE Advance are 156.9 mpg (1.8 l/100km) and 40 g/km.

Customer orders for the 2017 Golf GTE are already being accepted.

Related post:
Volkswagen’s e-Golf gains more range for 2017

Mercedes-AMG reveals its 2017 DTM liveries

April 4, 2017, 12:00 pm

≫ Next: Top 10: UK car sales Q1 2017

≪ Previous: The Golf GTE has had a price reduction

$

0

0

Formula One has influenced Mercedes-AMG Motorsport’s choice of colour schemes for the 2017 DTM season.

The C 63 DTM cars of Gary Paffett and Robert Wickens are obviously inspired by the Mercedes-AMG W08 EQ Power+, while a common sponsor means the pink examples of Lucas Auer and Edoardo Mortara match this year’s Force India VJM10.

Despite their various paintjobs, all six Mercedes-AMG contenders are visually linked by ‘digital flow’ graphics that run along the lower portion of their bodywork.

In a slight change to the sporting regulations for this year, every event will comprise two races that each last for 55 minutes plus one lap. Both feature mandatory pit stops and, to place more emphasis on team tactics and driver skill, tyre warmers are banned.

The 2017 DTM begins on the 7th of May at the Hockenheimring.