Nissan has updated its X-Trail crossover

June 6, 2017, 11:06 am

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With the X-Trail's third birthday rapidly approaching, a facelift was becoming overdue. The refreshed version, which arrives in August, gets both cosmetic and technical changes.

As is usually the case with such exercises, the most obvious styling alterations are at the front end. There, the upper and lower grilles now almost merge behind the numberplate, plus the headlights have been redesigned.

Inside, improving refinement and practicality were the main objectives. Accordingly, materials are claimed to be of better quality, while luggage capacity for the five-door variant has risen from 550 to 565 litres.

For the first time, X-Trail will be available with ProPilot. This autonomous driving technology suite can control acceleration, braking and steering, but only when travelling within a single lane.

As before, the engine line-up comprises 160 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS) 1.6 litre petrol, 128 bhp (96 kW / 130 PS) 1.6 litre diesel and 174 bhp (130 kW / 177 PS) 2.0 litre diesel units. All can be specified with either front- or all-wheel drive.

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2018 Kia Stonic first view

June 7, 2017, 11:25 am

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Kia will soon become the next manufacturer to enter the increasingly competitive B-segment crossover market.

The Stonic, which is scheduled to arrive at dealers during the second half of this year, slots beneath the Sportage in the brand's range.

A couple of renderings have been released that give a preview of the Stonic's styling. While these show off the basic proportions, expect the glazed area on the production model to be somewhat larger. Of course, the wheels won't be as comically huge, either.

For now there's no word on specifications, but Kia is promising plenty of customisation opportunities.

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Iveco launches the Stralis XP Abarth edition

June 8, 2017, 11:12 am

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To capitalise on its status as logistics supplier to Abarth's Selenia Trophy and 124 Rally Selenia motorsport championships, Iveco has produced a special edition truck.

The Stralis XP Abarth tractor unit boasts a striking Abarth-inspired livery. While the finish is predominantly white, the front is dark matte grey and there are numerous red highlights. Inside, two-tone leather upholstery echoes the exterior colour scheme.

In recognition of the Abarth 124 Spider, Iveco will be building just 124 examples of the Stralis XP Abarth.

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Porsche 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series unveiled

June 9, 2017, 1:29 pm

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As its name suggests, the 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series is destined to be a rare sight. Indeed, Porsche intends to build just 500 examples.

Modifications to the 3.8 litre, six-cylinder engine mean power has risen by 26 bhp (19 kW / 27 PS) to 598 bhp (446 kW / 607 PS) and peak torque is 750 Nm (553 lb/ft).

However, judging by most of the official performance figures, the Exclusive Series is no quicker than the standard 911 Turbo S. For instance, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint still takes 2.9 seconds and top speed remains at 205 mph (330 km/h). The 0-124 mph (200 km/h) time has been reduced from 9.9 to 9.6 seconds, though.

Will prospective customers be bothered by the lack of extra pace? Probably not, because the car's enhanced looks are going to be enough to lure many of them.

As well as a Turbo Aerokit, the specification includes unique black-painted 20” alloy wheels. Furthermore, the roof panel, bonnet, ram-air scoops and side skirts are all made from carbon fibre.

Inside, a subtle double-stripe motif appears on the Alcantara headlining and dual-layer perforated leather upholstery. A numbered dashboard plaque and carbon fibre door-sill plates with illuminated 'Exclusive Series' logos provide the finishing touches.

Available in coupé guise only, the 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series costs £186,916 in the UK. Compared to a regular 911 Turbo S, that amount represents a sizeable premium of £39,376.

Pricing in Germany meanwhile starts at €259,992.

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A 1980s Beetle-inspired Up! limited edition

June 10, 2017, 11:10 am

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Volkswagen has launched the Special Up!, a car inspired by the Beetle 'Special Bug' that appeared in 1982.

It's being offered in a choice of two colour schemes. The first, which is priced from €13,625 in Germany, combines Black Pearl paintwork with a Sandstorm Yellow finish for the 17” alloy wheels.

Alternatively, customers can order a Savanna Gold body and black wheels, but this costs an extra €150.

Both versions also feature side stripes, contrasting door mirror caps and aluminium door-sill kick-plates. Heated front seats, a black headlining and ambient cabin lighting are fitted as standard too, plus there's the option of Savanna Gold upholstery.

UK availability has yet to be confirmed.

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The VXR8 GTS-R marks the end of an era

June 11, 2017, 3:46 pm

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Throughout most of Vauxhall's history, its range has included a large rear-wheel drive executive-class car. Since the demise of the Omega in 2003, this role has been performed by the rarefied VXR8.

However, the VXR8 is about to disappear. That's because production of the Australian-built Holden Commodore – the model on which the Vauxhall is based – is due to cease in October.

Even if a direct Commodore replacement was planned (and there definitely isn't), the impending sale of Vauxhall and Opel to the French PSA Group probably would've jeopardised any future VXR8.

Consequently, the current VXR8 is almost certain to be the last ever V8-powered Vauxhall. What's more, anybody wanting a rear-wheel drive vehicle from the brand will soon be restricted to the not-very-sporty Movano van.

Such a passing deserves commemorating, hence the new VXR8 GTS-R limited edition. Just fifteen examples are going to be available in the UK.

The VXR8 GTS-R is a Holden Commodore

HSV GTSR wearing Vauxhall badges.

Compared to a regular GTS, output from the supercharged 6.2 litre LSA engine is increased to 586 bhp (437 kW / 595 PS) thanks to a re-map and a high-flow air filter. Also fitted are a limited-slip differential and an upgraded braking set-up that boasts six-piston monoblock calipers for the front axle.

Helping the GTS-R to stand out visually are redesigned bumpers, various carbon fibre components and unique 20” forged alloy wheels. The interior meanwhile gains leather and Alcantara upholstery.

With a price tag of £74,500 the GTS-R isn't cheap, but there are bound to be enough enthusiasts who understand the significance of this final VXR8.

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Images © General Motors.

Abarth 695 Rivale limited edition unveiled

June 12, 2017, 2:26 pm

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Following last year's Fiat 500 Riva, it's now Abarth's turn to launch a special model inspired by the Italian boat builder.

The 695 Rivale, which is being offered in both hatchback and cabriolet guises, features Sera Blue and Shark Grey two-tone paintwork. Also adding to the look are Aquamarine stripes, satin chrome details and gloss grey 17” Supersport alloy wheels.

Inside, the specification includes blue leather upholstery, plus customers can choose either carbon fibre or mahogany cabin trim.

If a regular 695 Rivale isn't exclusive enough, then there's the 695 Rivale 175 Anniversary. As that moniker suggests, this version celebrates Riva's 175th birthday.

Among the distinguishing elements are blue and black hand-stitched leather, different wheels and some unique badges. Fittingly, just 175 hatchbacks and 175 cabriolets are going to be produced.

Power for the 695 Rivale and 695 Rivale 175 Anniversary comes from a 1.4 litre turbocharged engine. With 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS) and 250 Nm (184 lb/ft) of peak torque, the result is a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 6.7 seconds and a 140 mph (225 km/h) top speed.

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A splash of orange for the GLE Coupé

June 14, 2017, 2:22 pm

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Think of the new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupé OrangeArt Edition as a couple of option packs that can be ordered either separately or in combination.

The first, which takes care of the exterior, features subtle orange accents above the front splitter and around the gloss black 21” AMG wheels. The AMG Line appearance upgrade is also included.

Paintwork choice is restricted to Black, Obsidian Black, Selenite Grey, Iridium Silver, Designo Diamond White Bright or Polar White. Unfortunately, an orange shade isn't being offered.

The second focusses on the interior, where the highlight is unique black nappa leather and Dinamica microfibre upholstery with orange piping and grey stitching.

Front sports seats, stainless steel pedals, a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and aluminium cabin trim pieces are all fitted as standard, too.

With deliveries due to begin in August, the OrangeArt Edition external and internal enhancements cost €4,165 and €2,618 respectively in Germany for the GLE 350 d 4Matic Coupé, GLE 400 4Matic Coupé and GLE 500 4Matic Coupé.

Those amounts change to €715 and €2,439 if the base vehicle is a Mercedes-AMG GLE 43 4Matic Coupé.

OrangeArt Edition availability in the UK has yet to be confirmed.

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2018 Hyundai Kona first view

June 16, 2017, 10:39 am

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Kia announced its all-new Stonic earlier this month, so an equivalent model from partner brand Hyundai doesn't come as a surprise. Named Kona, this B-segment crossover is seen as a key enabler for the Korean firm's European sales ambitions.

Measuring 4,165 mm (13’ 8”) long, 1,800 mm (5’ 11”) wide and 1,550 mm (5’ 1”) tall, Kona has a pleasingly distinctive look. As well as a contrasting roof, key styling elements include LED headlights and prominent mouldings that protect the wheel arches.

Technology abounds in the cabin. The Standard Audio system features a 5” monochrome screen, Bluetooth and a USB socket, but it can be upgraded to Display Audio (7” colour touchscreen, reversing camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible) or Navigation (8” screen, 3D maps and Live traffic information).

Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Assist System and Driver Attention Alert are fitted to all variants, while a head-up display and wireless device charging appear on the options list.

A few years ago, launching a vehicle in this class without diesel power would have been considered foolhardy. That's no longer the case, so initially Hyundai is offering just two turbocharged petrol engines.

The first is a three-cylinder, 1.0 litre unit which comes with a six-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive. Although 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS) and 172 Nm (126 lb/ft) of peak torque give a fairly leisurely 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 12.0 seconds, estimated combined cycle economy of 53.2 mpg (5.3 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 119 g/km are respectable.

A four-cylinder, 1.6 litre alternative delivers 174 bhp (130 kW / 177 PS) and 265 Nm (195 lb/ft) to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Performance is much stronger, as evidenced by a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 7.9 seconds and a 127 mph (205 km/h) top speed. However, efficiency figures of 38.6 mpg (7.3 l/100km) and 169 g/km are shockingly poor.

Later on, a four-cylinder, 1.6 litre turbocharged diesel motor is going to become available. This produces either 113 bhp (85 kW / 115 PS) with a six-speed manual gearbox, or 134 bhp (100 kW / 136 PS) with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Customers will be able to specify all-wheel drive if they choose the higher output version.

Final UK specifications and prices for the Kona have yet to be confirmed.

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Vantage AMR limited editions launched

June 16, 2017, 3:47 pm

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Aston Martin has unveiled the first production models from its new AMR sub-brand. The V8 Vantage AMR and V12 Vantage AMR – which are both available in Coupe and Roadster guises – have been influenced by Aston Martin Racing's motorsport activities.

There's a selection of five eye-catching colour schemes. Perhaps the most recognisable is the 'Halo Pack', as this mimics the title-winning V8 Vantage GTE driven by Nicki Thiim and Marco Sørensen in last year's FIA World Endurance Championship. Stirling Green paintwork is combined with Lime Green accents, plus Union Flag enamelled Aston Martin badges can be fitted free of charge.

Alternatively, customers can choose Ultramarine Black with a Blue graphic, Zaffre Blue with a Red graphic, Scintilla Silver with a Grey graphic or Stratus White with an Orange graphic.

The various cabin palettes are intended to complement the exterior liveries. Coupes have leather and Alcantara upholstery, while Roadsters feature all-leather interiors.

Mechanically, the V8 Vantage AMR remains standard, so 430 bhp (321 kW / 436 PS) is delivered via either a six-speed manual gearbox or a Sportshift automated manual transmission.

Conversely, the V12 Vantage AMR's output is up from the usual 563 bhp (420 kW / 571 PS) to 595 bhp (444 kW / 603 PS). Its seven-speed transmission can also be ordered in either manual or Sportshift forms.

Aston Martin is hoping that buyers are going to be tempted by a wide variety of cost options. These include numerous carbon fibre components (for example door mirror caps, a front grille, sports seats and a full Aero Kit), as well as some forged alloy wheels and a titanium exhaust system.

Prices for the cars start at £97,995 in the UK and €126,995 in Germany. Deliveries are due to begin during the fourth quarter of 2017, but V8 Vantage AMR and V12 Vantage AMR build volumes have been set at 200 and 100 units respectively.

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McLaren 570S Spider unveiled

June 18, 2017, 9:36 am

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This year's Goodwood Festival of Speed will see the new McLaren 570S Spider make its public debut.

Compared to the existing Coupé version, the most obvious difference is a retractable two-piece hardtop roof. This can be raised or lowered in fifteen seconds at speeds of up to 25 mph (40 km/h). McLaren says the weight penalty is 46 kg (101 lbs), but body rigidity isn't affected.

Less noticeable changes include a slightly raised rear spoiler, plus the rear window (which also acts as a wind deflector to reduce in-cabin buffeting) can be electrically lowered.

Like the 570S Coupé, the Spider is powered by a 3.8 litre twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 562 bhp (419 kW / 570 PS) with 600 Nm (443 lb/ft) of peak torque. Delivered via a seven-speed sequential transmission, the result is a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.2 seconds and a 204 mph (328 km/h) roof-up top speed.

Available to order now, UK prices for the 570S Spider start at £164,750. Deliveries are due to begin during August.

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Motor insurance salvage codes are changing

June 19, 2017, 1:47 pm

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From the 1st of October 2017, new letter codes will be used to signify whether a damaged vehicle should be fixed or scrapped. The revisions, which have been co-ordinated by the Association of British Insurers, follow a two-year review.

Out go the current A, B, C and D categories. They're going to be replaced by A, B, S and N classifications that are intended to better reflect post-incident condition rather than repair costs.

New ABI Categories	Old ABI Categories
A – Scrap Complete vehicle must be crushed without parts being removed.	A – Scrap Few or no economically salvageable parts; must be crushed.
B – Break Non-structural usable parts can be recycled (except airbags and seatbelts); bodyshell / frame / chassis must be crushed.	B – Break Parts can be taken if economically viable (except airbags and seatbelts); bodyshell / frame / chassis must be crushed.
S – Structural Damage, Repairable If replaced, the original bodyshell / frame / chassis must be crushed. If not sold on, may be broken for spares as per Cat B.	C – Repairable Total Loss Vehicle Repair costs (including VAT) exceed the vehicle's pre-accident value. If not sold on, may be broken for spares as per Cat B.
N – Non-structural Damage, Repairable Some safety-critical components might need replacing. If not sold on, may be broken for spares as per Cat B.	D – Repairable Total Loss Vehicle Repair costs (including VAT) don't exceed the vehicle's pre-accident value. If not sold on, may be broken for spares as per Cat B.

Minimum qualification requirements for individuals responsible for assessing salvage status are also being introduced.

However, as the ABI freely admits, the whole process remains a voluntary Code of Practice. Consequently, unscrupulous operators could still return vehicles to the road that are only fit for crushing or breaking.

2017/2018 Formula E calendar announced

June 20, 2017, 12:12 pm

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Despite having a later December start, the fourth FIA Formula E Championship is going to include fourteen races – that's two more than the current season.

The provisional calendar, which has been agreed by the FIA World Motor Sport Council, features three 'double header' events.

Chile, Brazil and Italy will host their first Formula E rounds, while a gap in June could yet see the return of a UK ePrix to the schedule.

2017/2018 FIA Formula E Championship – Calendar
Round	Date	Venue
1	02 December 2017	Hong Kong, China
2	03 December 2017	Hong Kong, China
3	13 January 2018	Marrakech, Morocco
4	03 February 2018	Santiago de Chile, Chile
5	03 March 2018	Mexico City, Mexico
6	17 March 2018	São Paulo, Brazil*
7	14 April 2018	Rome, Italy
8	28 April 2018	Paris, France
9	19 May 2018	TBA**, Germany
10	09 June 2018	TBA**
11	07 July 2018***	New York, USA
12	08 July 2018***	New York, USA
13	28 July 2018	Montreal, Canada
14	29 July 2018	Montreal, Canada
* Subject to confirmation.
** Venue to be announced.
*** Date to be confirmed.

As far as future regulation changes are concerned, the most significant allows a modest race-mode power increase from 170 kW (228 bhp / 231 PS) to 180 kW (241 bhp / 244 PS).

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2018 Formula One calendar announced

June 20, 2017, 12:14 pm

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Thanks to the long-overdue return of the French Grand Prix, next year's FIA Formula One World Championship will see the number of rounds increase from twenty to twenty-one.

Other key changes include the removal of the Malaysian Grand Prix and the reappearance of the German Grand Prix. Furthermore, the Russian race is moving from April to September, plus the Azerbaijan round is going to take place in April instead of June.

Otherwise, the 2018 timetable looks very similar to 2017's.

2018 FIA Formula One World Championship – Calendar
Round	Date	Grand Prix
1	25 March	Melbourne, Australia
2	08 April	Shanghai, China*
3	15 April	Sakhir, Bahrain
4	29 April	Baku, Azerbaijan
5	13 May	Barcelona, Spain
6	27 May	Monte Carlo, Monaco
7	10 June	Montreal, Canada
8	24 June	Le Castellet, France
9	01 July	Spielberg, Austria
10	08 July	Silverstone, Great Britain
11	22 July	Hockenheim, Germany
12	29 July	Budapest, Hungary
13	26 August	Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium
14	02 September	Monza, Italy
15	16 September	Marina Bay, Singapore*
16	30 September	Sochi, Russia
17	07 October	Suzuka, Japan
18	21 October	Austin, USA
19	28 October	Mexico City, Mexico
20	11 November	São Paulo, Brazil
21	25 November	Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi
* Subject to commercial rights holder confirmation.

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2018 Kia Stonic revealed

June 23, 2017, 3:38 pm

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As expected, the actual Stonic looks a lot less dramatic than the renderings released earlier this month. Kia's new B-segment crossover certainly isn't unattractive, though.

A high-riding stance, plastic cladding and pronounced wheel arches create a rugged appearance. However, the Stonic – which shares its underpinnings with the existing Rio hatchback – won't be available with all-wheel drive.

Nevertheless, there's plenty of engine choice. The petrol range comprises 1.0 litre turbocharged and 1.25 or 1.4 litre normally-aspirated units, while the sole turbo-diesel offering has a 1.6 litre displacement.

As is almost mandatory nowadays, connectivity and driver aids feature prominently on the standard and optional equipment lists. A touchscreen-controlled infotainment system that's Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible is fitted to every variant, for example.

Customers also have the opportunity to specify various assistance technologies. These include Lane Departure Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking with Forward Collision Alert, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The 2018 Kia Stonic is due to arrive at European dealers during the third quarter of 2017. Prices have yet to be announced.

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BMW unveils the third-generation X3

June 27, 2017, 12:01 pm

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A small-capacity petrol engine, an M Performance version and various semi-autonomous driving technologies are the highlights of BMW's 2018 X3.

This all-new SUV – which arrives at UK dealers in November – will be offered with a choice of SE, xLine or M Sport trim grades. As standard, all have LED headlights, satellite navigation, Park Assist, leather upholstery, three-zone climate control and an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

While the initial engine line-up is being limited to a couple of diesel units, they're going to be joined later by a 2.0 litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol alternative. There's no word yet on whether a plug-in hybrid powertrain is coming, though.

In addition, the M40i variant is the undisputed range-topper. As well as an M Performance 3.0 litre, six-cylinder, turbocharged petrol motor, it boasts unique bumpers, upgraded brakes, recalibrated suspension and 20” lightweight alloy wheels.

Model	X3 xDrive 20d	X3 xDrive 30d	X3 xDrive M40i
Power	187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS)	261 bhp (195 kW / 265 PS)	355 bhp (265 kW / 360 PS)
Torque	400 Nm (295 lb/ft)	620 Nm (457 lb/ft)	500 Nm (369 lb/ft)
0-62 mph	8.0 secs	5.8 secs	4.8 secs
Top speed	132 mph (213 km/h)	149 mph (240 km/h)	155 mph (250 km/h)
Combined cycle	56.5 mpg (5.0 l/100km)	49.6 mpg (5.7 l/100km)	34.5 mpg (8.2 l/100km)
CO2 emissions	132 g/km	149 g/km	188 g/km
OTR price	£38,880	£44,380	£51,280

Driver assistance is provided via a suite of functions known as BMW Personal CoPilot. With the right options specified, an X3 can now monitor and control its own acceleration, braking and steering when travelling along a multi-lane highway. Furthermore, several traffic warning systems are available.

If things do go wrong, then a built-in SIM card and Intelligent Emergency Call can automatically summon assistance and declare where an incident has occurred.

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Peugeot upgrades the 3008DKR to Maxi spec

June 29, 2017, 3:02 pm

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Having won the Dakar Rally in 2016 and 2017, Peugeot is very keen to repeat the feat next January. So the 3008DKR – this year's first-, second- and third-placed car – is being replaced by the 3008DKR Maxi.

Compared to its predecessor, the Maxi has grown in width by 20 centimetres (7.9 inches). Such an increase was necessary to accommodate revised suspension which should deliver better stability and handling.

As part of the ongoing development process, Sébastien Loeb will drive a 3008DKR Maxi on next month's Silk Way Rally.

Commenting on the enhancements, Bruno Famin, Peugeot Sport Director, said: “As soon as we crossed the finish ramp of the Dakar in January, we started to work on the next generation of car to take on this monumental challenge.

“Of course, there's only one thing more difficult than winning and that's carrying on winning, against very strong opposition. That's why our engineers have a mission to continually improve the car, using their know-how to constantly raise the level and give our drivers the best chance of success.”

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Fiat marks the Nuova 500’s 60th birthday again

July 1, 2017, 12:25 pm

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Sixty years ago this month Fiat introduced the 'Nuova' 500. Apparently, it's an anniversary that demands two celebratory special editions: the Sessantesimo was announced in March, now the Anniversario has arrived.

Available in 500 hatchback and 500C convertible guises, the Anniversario has an unashamedly old-fashioned look thanks a set of retro 16” alloy wheels, extra chrome and various vintage-style badges. Riviera Green and Sicilia Orange – two new paint shades exclusive to this variant – complete the effect.

Inside, the specification includes striped fabric upholstery with body-coloured piping, as well as some bespoke embroidered floor mats.

The only engine being offered is a 1.2 litre, four-cylinder petrol unit that produces 68 bhp (51 kW / 69 PS). Prices for the 500 Anniversario start at £14,265, while the 500C Anniversario costs from £16,865.

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Fiat launches the Panda City Cross

July 3, 2017, 3:36 pm

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In essence, the Panda City Cross is a front-wheel drive version of the all-wheel drive Panda Cross. It's a car that makes a lot of sense for urban use.

Black plastic cladding provides protection from small scrapes, while a set of 15” alloy wheels adds some style. Inside, the specification includes fabric and eco-leather upholstery which is complemented by a grey dashboard fascia.

Optionally available is a Style Pack. This comprises different upholstery, a copper-effect dashboard, body-coloured door mirror caps, red front tow hooks and an 'ultrashine' finish for the roof bars, skid plates and door mouldings.

Power comes from a 1.2 litre petrol engine that sends 68 bhp (51 kW / 69 PS) via a five-speed transmission.

A 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 14.5 seconds and a 96 mph (154 km/h) top speed indicate fairly mediocre performance. Similarly, 51.4 mpg (5.5 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 129 g/km on the combined cycle mean efficiency should be adequate rather than outstanding.

Pricing for the Panda City Cross starts at £12,995. The aforementioned Style Pack costs an extra £500, so most prudent customers are unlikely to be tempted.

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2018 Subaru Impreza European launch date

July 4, 2017, 12:39 pm

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Subaru has confirmed that the 2018 Impreza will make its first European public appearance at September's Frankfurt International Motor Show.

Like the recently-announced XV crossover, this five-door hatchback is based on the new Subaru Global Platform. Benefits are reckoned to include better rigidity and a lower centre of gravity.

In typical Subaru style, the mechanical package includes boxer engines and all-wheel drive. Detailed specifications have yet to be revealed, though.

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