Top 10: UK car sales Q1 2017

April 5, 2017, 3:44 pm

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New car registrations for the first quarter were up by 6.2% year-on-year, thanks mainly to a record-breaking March performance.

The change to ‘17’ number plates will have undoubtedly fuelled some of that growth. However, there was also a last-minute rush to avoid the revised Vehicle Excise Duty rates which were introduced on the 1st of April.

Those tax changes have particularly affected more expensive cars. Accordingly, data published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders shows that some of the highest Q1 increases were recorded by premium brands.

They include Aston Martin (up 135%), Bentley (up 27%), Jaguar (up 51%), Land Rover (up 23%), Maserati (up 96%), Mercedes-Benz (up 16%) and Porsche (up 12%).

Land Rover achieved strong gains in Q1 2017,

helped by the launch of the fifth-generation Discovery.

There were a few notable exceptions, though. For example, Audi’s volume hardly rose, while Lexus sales fell by 10%.

Another key conclusion from the statistics concerns fuel type. Specifically, customers are gradually realising that diesel might not be suitable for them.

Indeed, its year-to-date market share was 44%, down from 47% in 2016. The corresponding figures for petrol and alternative (i.e. hybrids and electric) were 52% (up from 50%) and 4% (up from 3%) respectively.

Cumulative UK Car Registrations Q1 2017 - By Fuel Type
Fuel	2017	2016	Change	Change %
Diesel	360,022	363,485	-3,463	-1.0%
Petrol	426,589	382,588	+44,001	+11.5%
Alternative	33,405	25,707	+7,698	+29.9%
Total	820,016	771,780	+48,236	+6.2%

The Ford Fiesta is still the country’s most popular model by a huge margin. Clearly, buyers don’t seem bothered that an all-new replacement version is due imminently.

Perhaps the biggest surprise in the top ten league table concerns second place. This spot is usually taken by the Vauxhall Corsa, so Ford must be very pleased that the Focus nabbed the runner-up position.

Top 10: Cumulative UK Car Registrations Q1 2017 - By Model
Position	Model	Registrations	Market Share
1	Ford Fiesta	38,205	4.7%
2	Ford Focus	23,886	2.9%
3	Vauxhall Corsa	21,305	2.6%
4	Volkswagen Golf	19,223	2.3%
5	Nissan Qashqai	19,071	2.3%
6	Vauxhall Astra	17,915	2.2%
7	Mercedes-Benz C-Class	15,461	1.9%
8	Volkswagen Polo	15,453	1.9%
9	Mini Hatch	12,973	1.6%
10	Nissan Juke	12,935	1.6%

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BMW i unveils two special MemphisStyle cars

April 8, 2017, 1:00 pm

≫ Next: 2018 Insignia Country Tourer first view

≪ Previous: Top 10: UK car sales Q1 2017

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Garage Italia Customs and BMW i have collaborated to create unique MemphisStyle versions of the i3 and i8.

As that name suggests, the bold bodywork graphics and vivid interiors were influenced by the Memphis Group of designers. The collective, which lasted from 1981 to 1991, was particularly noted for producing colourful geometric furniture.

Commenting on the project’s inspiration, Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW Group’s Senior Vice President of Design, said, “During the nineteen-eighties, the Memphis Group questioned the formal severity and classic functionality of design artefacts both in a somewhat provocative and humorous manner.

“In this way, Memphis became a symbol of contemporary design. With its design drafts, the Group challenged existing dogmas, aroused emotions and created designs with high recognition value.”

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2018 Insignia Country Tourer first view

April 9, 2017, 11:21 am

≫ Next: 2018 Buick Regal Sportback / TourX unveiled

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While Vauxhall’s and Opel’s marketing departments will probably portray the new Insignia Country Tourer as perfect for people who like to explore the great outdoors, it’s also very suitable for urban environments.

Following a familiar ‘rugged estate’ recipe, features include a 20 mm (0.8”) higher ride height (better for coping with pot-holed city streets) and black plastic bodywork cladding (perfect for fending off other drivers’ errant parking manoeuvres).

Rough-terrain ability should be fine for most owners, too. All-wheel drive is fitted, along with a torque vectoring system that utilises two electrically-controlled multi-plate clutches on the rear axle instead of a traditional differential.

The 2018 Insignia Country Tourer is due to appear in public for the first time at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Prices have yet to be announced.

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Images © General Motors.

2018 Buick Regal Sportback / TourX unveiled

April 9, 2017, 3:21 pm

≫ Next: Jeep launches the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

≪ Previous: 2018 Insignia Country Tourer first view

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Over the past few years, several members of Buick’s range have been based on Vauxhall / Opel models. That arrangement looks set to continue (United States import tariff increases notwithstanding), even after PSA Group completes its purchase of General Motors’ European subsidiaries.

Indeed, according to a recent statement issued by Opel, “investments [in the Rüsselsheim and Eisenach plants] are also confirmed for exports of sister products for another GM brand.”

So, the future of the just-announced (and German-built) 2018 Regal seems assured.

When deliveries begin during the fourth quarter of this year, Buick’s customers will have a choice of five-door Sportback hatchback or TourX wagon body styles.

They might look familiar, because they’re essentially reworked versions of the Vauxhall / Opel Insignia Grand Sport and Insignia Sports Tourer respectively. Significantly, a four-door Regal sedan won’t be offered.

From launch, the only available engine is going to be a 2.0 litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder gasoline unit which develops 250 bhp (186 kW / 253 PS) and 260 lb/ft (352 Nm) of torque. That output is sent to the front wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission.

An all-wheel drive system incorporating an active twin-clutch rear differential will be the sole drivetrain option. This sees the torque figure rise to 295 lb/ft (400 Nm), but the gearbox loses a ratio.

Buick is planning to confirm full specifications and prices nearer to the new Regal’s on-sale date.

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Images © General Motors.

Jeep launches the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

April 10, 2017, 3:22 pm

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Thanks to a supercharged 6.2 litre V8 engine which produces 707 bhp (527 kW / 716 PS) with 875 Nm (645 lb/ft) of torque, Jeep’s 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk has become the world’s most powerful SUV.

That extraordinary output gets sent to an upgraded Quadra-Trac on-demand four-wheel drive system via a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. Sensibly, the half-shafts, rear drive shaft and rear axle have all been strengthened to ensure they can cope.

Given the Trackhawk’s size, performance is astonishingly quick. Launch Control means the zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) sprint takes just 3.5 seconds, while a quarter mile can be covered in 11.6 seconds from a standing start. Top speed is 180 mph (290 km/h).

At this stage, Jeep hasn’t published fuel consumption figures. They’re unlikely to be brilliant.

Enhanced chassis components include Bilstein adaptive damping and a Brembo braking set-up that boasts huge 40 cm (15.7”) discs and six-piston calipers for the front wheels. Furthermore, a bespoke Selec-Track system offers a choice of Auto, Sport, Track, Snow, Tow and Custom driving modes.

Redesigned bumpers, twin bonnet extractor vents, sill extensions and a set of 20” ‘Titanium’ alloy rims help to create a suitably aggressive look.

Inside, the prominent tachometer is positioned in the middle of the instrument cluster. Uniquely, the centrally-mounted 8.4” touchscreen has Trackhawk Performance Pages that display various timers and parameters.

Deliveries of the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk are due to begin across North America during the fourth quarter of this year.

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Ford Police Responder Hybrid Sedan unveiled

April 11, 2017, 3:04 pm

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Ford has launched the Police Responder Hybrid Sedan. Based on the current Fusion Hybrid, it’s billed as the USA’s first pursuit-rated hybrid police car.

As well as having sufficient performance, that means the new arrival is certified to tackle various obstacles including 8” (20.3 cm) curb impacts. Furthermore, depths of 18” (45.7 cm) and 10” (25.4 cm) can be forded at 15 mph (24 km/h) and 40 mph (64 km/h) respectively.

The powertrain comprises an Atkinson-cycle 2.0 litre gasoline engine and an electric motor. With the latter drawing energy from a lithium-ion battery pack, pure-electric running is possible at speeds of up to 60 mph (96 km/h). By comparison, the civilian Fusion Hybrid is able to achieve 85 mph (136 km/h) in zero-emissions mode.

Heavy-duty suspension, front deflector plates and a recalibrated regenerative braking system all appear on the police-specific equipment list. Inside, the front seats feature anti-stab plates and slimmer bolsters to accommodate duty belts, while those in the rear are upholstered in easy-clean vinyl.

Deliveries to law enforcement agencies across North America are scheduled to begin in the summer.

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2017 World Car Awards winners

April 13, 2017, 8:08 am

≫ Next: Audi R8 LMS GT4 announced

≪ Previous: Ford Police Responder Hybrid Sedan unveiled

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This year’s World Car Awards were very successful for Jaguar.

Not only did the F-Pace deservedly win the main World Car of the Year prize (beating the Audi Q5 and Volkswagen Tiguan), but the brand’s first crossover was named World Car Design of the Year too.

The international jury of seventy-five motoring journalists also decided that the Mercedes-Benz E-Class should be 2017’s World Luxury Car of the Year.

In other categories, the Porsche 718 Boxster / Cayman rightly secured the World Performance Car of the Year title, while the inaugural World Urban Car accolade went to the BMW i3 (94 Ah).

Perhaps the only controversy concerned the World Green Car of the Year victor, because the Toyota Prius Prime plug-in hybrid was chosen instead of the pure-electric Chevrolet Bolt or Tesla Model X.

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Audi R8 LMS GT4 announced

April 14, 2017, 10:53 am

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Audi has become the latest manufacturer to develop a GT4 race car for privateer teams.

Just unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, the R8 LMS GT4 is based on the road-going R8 Coupé V10. In fact, Audi Sport reckons that the former shares over sixty percent of the latter’s components, which should benefit ownership costs.

To comply with GT4 regulations, the 5.2 litre engine has been tuned to produce up to 488 bhp (364 kW / 495 PS) with around 550 Nm (405 lb/ft) of torque. That output gets sent to the rear wheels only via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a mechanical limited slip differential.

By comparison, the showroom model boasts 532 bhp (397 kW / 540 PS) and quattro all-wheel drive.

The Audi R8 LMS GT4 is due to make its competitive debut at the Nürburgring 24 Hours in May. However, as a full homologation process has yet to be completed, customer deliveries aren’t scheduled to begin until the final months of 2017.

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Jaguar launches a four-cylinder F-Type

April 15, 2017, 11:11 am

≫ Next: 2018 Lincoln Navigator first view

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As Porsche has already demonstrated with the 718 Boxster and Cayman, four-cylinder premium sports cars are perfectly acceptable. Indeed, maybe the arrival of those models prompted Jaguar to develop new entry-level versions of the F-Type Coupé and Convertible?

Slotting the four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine into the F-Type makes a lot of sense. After all, many prospective buyers won’t really care about what’s under the bonnet, but they will be attracted by the relatively affordable £49,900 starting price.

Performance shouldn’t disappoint, though. With a single twin-scroll turbocharger, output is rated at 296 bhp (221 kW / 300 PS), while 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque is available from just 1,500 rpm. Furthermore, total weight is down by 52 kg (115 lbs) compared to the V6-powered variants.

Those figures result in a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 5.7 seconds and a 155 mph (249 km/h) top speed. 39.2 mpg (7.2 l/100km) with CO2 emissions of 163 g/km on the combined cycle mean that efficiency is fairly respectable, too.

However, one particular specification oddity might be off-putting to anybody wanting a more involved driving experience. Although it’s rear-wheel drive (a plus point for enthusiasts), the sole transmission is an eight-speed Quickshift automatic. There’s no manual gearbox option.

Sales of the four-cylinder F-Type are due to begin in the coming weeks.

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2018 Lincoln Navigator first view

April 17, 2017, 3:36 pm

≫ Next: Mercedes-Benz Concept A Sedan unveiled

≪ Previous: Jaguar launches a four-cylinder F-Type

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While the 2018 Navigator certainly has an imposing presence, Lincoln should be admired for resisting any temptation to overdo the glitziness. The ethos behind this all-new full-size SUV is summed up by Kumar Galhotra, brand President, who said, “Quiet luxury is both a look and a feeling.”

Indeed, as far as attracting customers is concerned, the Navigator’s interior ambience is probably more important than the external styling. Consequently, that particular aspect clearly received lots of attention from Lincoln’s engineers and designers.

All of the ‘touch points’ have been given a premium texture, for example. In addition, cabin noise (perhaps a true indicator of luxury) has been minimised thanks to various measures such as the use of laminated side glass.

The cabin has six seats arranged over three rows. Those for the driver and front passenger are heated and cooled, plus they have a massage function.

Naturally, there’s a plethora of technology. As well as a 12” configurable instrument cluster and a Sync3 infotainment system, available features include a head-up display, 360° camera monitoring, a Revel Ultima audio player with twenty speakers and 10” entertainment screens for rear-seat occupants.

Connectivity is taken care of by a wireless charging facility, six USB ports, four 12v outlets, a 110v socket and a ten-device Wi-Fi hotspot.

Like the previous model, power is provided by a 3.5 litre V6 EcoBoost turbocharged gasoline engine. However, output has been increased to around 450 horsepower (about 335 kW) and the automatic transmission now boasts ten speeds.

Production of the 2018 Lincoln Navigator is due to begin this summer. Prices have yet to be announced.

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Mercedes-Benz Concept A Sedan unveiled

April 18, 2017, 3:23 pm

≫ Next: MG creates the E-motion concept

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According to Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer at Daimler AG, “Our Concept A Sedan shows that the time of creases is over. With its perfect proportions and a sensual treatment of surfaces with reduced lines, it is the next milestone of ‘Sensual Purity’ and has the potential to introduce a new design era.”

Just revealed at the Auto Shanghai motor show, the Concept A Sedan essentially previews the next-generation four-door CLA Coupé. At 4.57 metres (15’ 0”) long, it’s actually 70 mm (3”) shorter than the current model.

Notable styling elements include a striking ‘Panamericana’ front grille, which provides a clear visual link to the Mercedes-AMG GT sports car. Whether or not this will feature on a future production version remains to be seen, though.

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MG creates the E-motion concept

April 20, 2017, 11:39 am

≫ Next: BBR introduces an MX-5 Miata Stage 1 upgrade

≪ Previous: Mercedes-Benz Concept A Sedan unveiled

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MG’s last coupé with supercar-rivalling performance was the short-lived XPower SV that arrived in 2003. Since then, the brand has had two Chinese owners and manufacturing in Britain has ceased.

Sporty models have been absent too, thanks to the marque’s recent focus on developing crossovers and mundane hatchbacks.

That situation might change if the E-motion makes the transition from concept to production. Just unveiled at the Auto Shanghai motor show, it’s a sleek four-seater which appears to have been somewhat influenced by the Jaguar F-Type.

A target 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of less than four seconds suggests the sort of pace that would make the E-motion a worthy successor to the aforementioned SV.

However, the two cars have virtually nothing in common apart from a shared target audience. For instance, the SV was powered by an old-school V8 petrol engine, but the E-motion is based on a pure-electric modular architecture platform.

While other technical details are sparse, MG claims that battery range could be in excess of 310 miles (500 kilometres).

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BBR introduces an MX-5 Miata Stage 1 upgrade

April 21, 2017, 12:14 pm

≫ Next: BMW HP4 Race specifications confirmed

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BBR’s new Stage 1 package for the current Mazda MX-5 delivers huge output and performance improvements.

In standard guise, the roadster’s normally-aspirated 2.0 litre engine produces 157 bhp (118 kW / 160 PS) and 200 Nm (147 lb/ft) of peak torque. With the latest BBR modifications, those figures rise to 248 bhp (185 kW / 251 PS) and 320 Nm (236 lb/ft).

To achieve such colossal increases, BBR resorted to forced induction. According to the company, “Very early on during development it became clear that use of a supercharger, with its high parasitic losses, would work against the Mazda Skyactiv-G engine’s ultra-efficient ethos.

“Significant boost levels would be required to deliver considerable power gains with a supercharger, which would be incompatible with the Skyactiv-G engine’s high compression ratio.

“Therefore, having rejected all other forced induction methods, our extensive dyno and road testing has proven that our choice of a low back-pressure twin-scroll turbocharger, with its enhanced exhaust scavenging ability, is the optimal solution. It works harmoniously with the original Skyactiv-G layout and knock-resistant technologies, as is evident by the impressive power figures achieved at very modest boost pressures.”

As well as a TSX30-71R turbocharger, the conversion includes a carbon fibre heat shield, a bespoke cast iron manifold, a stainless steel downpipe, an aluminium air-to-air intercooler, Starchip / EcuTek RaceRom ECU recalibration and K+N’s Typhoon high-flow intake system.

Consequently, the 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time drops to 5.0 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h). In other words, the turbocharged MX-5 is significantly faster than a stock Abarth 124 Spider.

BBR says that emissions remain MOT-compliant, plus CARB and TÜV approvals are being sought. Furthermore, the alterations are fully reversible.

In the UK, the Stage 1 upgrade costs £4,395 in DIY kit form, or £4,995 fully fitted (both prices exclude VAT). It’s also being offered in the USA via distributor Flyin’ Miata.

Of course, Stage 1 might not be sufficient for some MX-5 owners. For them, Stage 2 enhancements should be available later this year.

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BMW HP4 Race specifications confirmed

April 25, 2017, 3:38 pm

≫ Next: Mitsubishi introduces the L200 Barbarian SVP

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Not many people have £68,000 spare to spend on a motorcycle which isn’t street legal. That probably explains why BMW Motorrad is building just 750 examples of its new HP4 Race.

However, for some wealthy enthusiasts this extreme track bike’s specification is going to represent good value for money.

The enhancements begin with the 999 cc, four-cylinder engine. Mated to a close-ratio six-speed gearbox, it gains a titanium Akrapovic exhaust system.

Power is rated at 212 bhp (158 kW / 215 PS) and peak torque is 120 Nm (88 lb/ft). Compared to a regular S 1000 RR, those figures are up by 16 bhp (12 kW / 16 PS) and 7 Nm (5 lb/ft) respectively.

Certainly not the largest increases, then. They don’t tell the whole story though, because the HP4 Race has been on a strict diet.

To complement the extra output, the unladen weight (fully fuelled) has been slashed from 208 kg (458 lbs) to 171 kg (377 lbs).

Using carbon fibre to make the monocoque main frame, self-supporting rear sub-frame, wheels and trim panels accounts for much of the reduction. Also contributing are an aluminium fuel tank and a lithium-ion battery.

The upgraded suspension comprises an Öhlins FGR 300 upside-down fork at the front and an Öhlins TTX 36 GP spring strut at the rear. Braking components include Brembo GP4 PR aluminium monoblock calipers that boast nickel plating and titanium pistons. They’re partnered with T-type steel discs.

A comprehensive electronic rider aids package features Dynamic Traction Control, Wheelie Control, Launch Control and a Pit Lane Limiter. 2D supplies the dashboard, which has a data logging function.

The very exclusive BMW HP4 Race will be available from September 2017.

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Mitsubishi introduces the L200 Barbarian SVP

April 26, 2017, 11:19 am

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As part of its new Special Vehicle Projects programme, Mitsubishi has launched the L200 Barbarian SVP.

The idea behind SVP is to create low-volume editions that combine distinctive looks with extra equipment. Accordingly, just 250 examples of this particular pick-up are going to be produced.

Half of them will have Electric Blue metallic paintwork, while the remainder will be finished in Cosmos Black.

Exclusive SVP features include black 17” alloy wheels. Shod with BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres, they sit beneath prominent wheel arch extensions. Also fitted are side steps, load-bed illumination and a unique mesh front grille.

Inside, the seats are covered in leather and faux suede, the SVP logo is embroidered onto the head restraints and there’s a numbered cabin plaque.

Like the regular Barbarian models, power comes from a 2.4 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine which produces 178 bhp (133 kW / 181 PS) and 430 Nm (317 lb/ft) of torque.

Available in Double Cab form only, the L200 Barbarian SVP can be ordered now. Prices start from £28,479 with a six-speed manual gearbox, or £29,879 with a five-speed automatic transmission. Both amounts exclude VAT.

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Volvo Trucks marks fifty years in the UK

April 28, 2017, 12:15 pm

≫ Next: Jeep Renegade Tough Mudder sales begin

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Back in 1967, a Scottish company called Ailsa Trucks began importing Volvo lorries into the UK. Now, to commemorate that event’s fiftieth anniversary, the appropriately-named Ailsa Edition has been launched.

Based on the FH Series tractor unit with either 4x2 or 6x2 chassis configurations, buyers get a choice of gold or black colour schemes.

Inside the cab there’s special black and gold leather upholstery, as well as unique gold mats for the floor and engine tunnel.

A comprehensive specification includes TomTom navigation, the Media Package, a television, a fridge-freezer and a microwave oven. Also fitted are I-See Predictive Cruise Control, I-Park Cool stationary air conditioning and the Personal Protection Package.

Volvo Trucks is restricting production of the Ailsa Edition to just fifty units.

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Jeep Renegade Tough Mudder sales begin

April 29, 2017, 12:25 pm

≫ Next: 2018 Corvette Carbon 65 Edition announced

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To celebrate its continuing sponsorship of UK Tough Mudder endurance race events, Jeep has introduced a special edition Renegade.

Offered with a choice of either Omaha Orange or Carbon Black paintwork, the Renegade Tough Mudder gains a more rugged front bumper borrowed from the Trailhawk variant, gloss black 17” alloy wheels and mud / snow tyres.

Completing the exterior look are a bonnet graphic, a unique tailgate badge and some stickers that show the build number (production is being limited to 100 examples).

Interior features include all-weather rubber floor mats, cloth upholstery, heated front seats and anodised orange bezels. Satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and a DAB radio are also part of the specification.

Power is provided by a 2.0 litre diesel engine which delivers 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) via a nine-speed automatic transmission. Active Drive Low all-wheel drive and under-body skid plates promise decent off-road ability.

Available to buy now, the Renegade Tough Mudder is priced from £27,795.

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2018 Corvette Carbon 65 Edition announced

May 1, 2017, 11:28 am

≫ Next: Dacia confirms Logan MCV Stepway prices

≪ Previous: Jeep Renegade Tough Mudder sales begin

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To celebrate the Corvette’s 65th birthday, Chevrolet has created the Carbon 65 Edition.

Just 650 examples are being built. Such a limited volume doesn’t mean a lack of variety though, because the Carbon 65 Edition can be based on either the Grand Sport 3LT or Z06 3LZ variants. Furthermore, it’s available in both Coupe and Convertible guises.

As this special model’s name suggests, numerous carbon fibre components are fitted as standard. They include the rear spoiler, quarter-panel intake ducts (Coupe only), roof panel (Coupe only) and tonneau inserts (Convertible only). The same material is also used for the cabin trim pieces and steering wheel.

Ceramic Matrix Gray paintwork is complemented by a blue finish for the bodywork graphics, brake calipers and the Convertible’s folding roof.

Black wheels, Competition Sport seats, black suede upholstery, unique sill plates and a numbered dashboard plaque complete the specification.

Opting for the Carbon 65 Edition package will add $15,000 to a Corvette’s invoice. Deliveries begin in the summer.

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Images © General Motors.

Dacia confirms Logan MCV Stepway prices

May 2, 2017, 12:22 pm

≫ Next: Two run-out G-Class special editions unveiled

≪ Previous: 2018 Corvette Carbon 65 Edition announced

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While badge snobs probably won’t like the Logan MCV Stepway, anybody else wanting a brand-new budget ‘lifestyle’ estate car might be very interested.

The slightly rugged Stepway specification boasts protective plastic cladding along the sills, around the wheel arches and on the bumpers. An increased ground clearance of 174 mm (6.8”) should be useful over rough terrain, but all-wheel drive isn’t being offered.

Placing an order at a Dacia dealer is going to be a fairly straightforward process, because Lauréate is the only available trim grade.

That’s a good thing, because cruise control, four electric windows, air conditioning, rear parking sensors and 16” steel wheels (with faux alloy covers) all appear on the equipment list. What’s more, a standard-fit MediaNav infotainment system features Bluetooth, a DAB radio and satellite navigation.

Customers will have to choose between a TCe 90 petrol or a dCi 90 diesel engine, though. Given the substantial price difference, the former is likely to be the one to go for unless huge mileages are envisaged.

Version	Lauréate TCe 90	Lauréate dCi 90
OTR Price	£11,495	£13,095
Engine	898 cc, three-cylinder	1,461 cc, four-cylinder
Fuel	Petrol	Diesel
Power	88 bhp (90 PS / 66 kW)	88 bhp (90 PS / 66 kW)
Torque	140 Nm (103 lb/ft)	220 Nm (162 lb/ft)
Transmission	Five-speed manual	Five-speed manual
0-62 mph (100 km/h)	12.4 secs	13.0 secs
Top speed	106 mph (170 km/h)	106 mph (170 km/h)
NEDC economy	55.4 mpg (5.1 l/100km)	72.4 mpg (3.9 l/100km)
CO2	115 g/km	100 g/km
Insurance group	7E	9E

UK deliveries are due to begin next month.

Two run-out G-Class special editions unveiled

May 3, 2017, 11:48 am

≫ Next: MG ZS renamed XS for the UK

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Mercedes-Benz is expected to launch a new G-Class towards the end of this year, so the Designo Manufaktur Edition and Exclusive Edition are probably the current model’s last hurrahs.

The Designo Manufaktur Edition is being offered in G 350 d and G 500 versions. It features AMG 19” five-spoke alloy wheels, black nappa leather upholstery and black piano lacquer cabin trim pieces.

Also included in the specification are the Exclusive, Sport and Chrome packages. Customers will have a choice of Obsidian Black, Magma Red or Mystic White paintwork.

Alternatively, the Exclusive Edition comes in either G 63 or G 65 guises. Both gain body decals, 21” light alloy wheels, a spare wheel cover and a stainless steel front bash plate.

Inside, there’s two-tone nappa leather upholstery in a range of colours, AMG Carbon or black piano lacquer trim pieces and the Seat Comfort package.

Available to order now in Germany, VAT-inclusive prices start from:

• Mercedes-Benz G 350 d Designo Manufaktur Edition - €109,878.65
• Mercedes-Benz G 500 Designo Manufaktur Edition - €121,683.45
• Mercedes-AMG G 63 Exclusive Edition - €163,125.20
• Mercedes-AMG G 65 Exclusive Edition - €287,658.70

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