Peugeot Sport reveals the 2018 308TCR

January 3, 2018, 3:16 pm

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Following a merger of the FIA World Touring Car Championship and the TCR International Series, 2018 will see the inaugural staging of the FIA World Touring Car Cup. This promising series, which has adopted TCR technical regulations, is intended to attract more manufacturers to top-flight saloon car racing.

Peugeot has responded positively to the changes by launching the 308TCR. Essentially an evolution of the 308 Racing Cup, it features a 2.0 litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine that’s mated to a specially strengthened six-speed sequential transmission. Output and peak torque are rated at 345 bhp (257 kW / 350 PS) and 420 Nm (310 lb/ft) respectively.

According to Bruno Famin, Peugeot Sport Director, “The Peugeot 308 Racing Cup was already eligible for the TCR, but the rapid development of championships based on TCR regulations inspired us to go further in looking for performance to accompany the ambitions of our customers, all the way up to the very top level – which from 2018 will be represented by the FIA World Touring Car Cup (WTCR).

“So, the arrival of the new Peugeot 308TCR comes at just the right time, illustrating the deep engagement that Peugeot Sport enjoys with its customers. In order to meet their justified demands, we’ve used our experience and expertise to come up with a car that is competitive, reliable and always increasingly enjoyable to drive.”

Each fully-assembled 308TCR costs €109,000 (plus taxes), or around £96,900 at current exchange rates. Privateer race teams can place their orders now ahead of the first deliveries in April.

Related posts:
The Golf GTI TCR is getting a facelift for 2018
Peugeot Sport creates the 308 Racing Cup

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Two Mercedes-Benz X-Class camping concepts

January 5, 2018, 3:00 pm

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For this month’s CMT show in Stuttgart, Mercedes-Benz has created a couple of concepts based on its new X-Class pick-up.

The first features a demountable camper from established company Tischer.

A side entrance door leads into the habitation space, where there’s a double bed in the over-cab alcove, as well as dinette seating that can be converted into a second bed. The kitchen area has a three-burner gas hob, while a small wash room is equipped with a shower, a fold-up basin and a swivelling toilet.

The second vehicle, developed in collaboration with VanEssa Mobilcamping, is much more unusual.

This X-Class has been fitted with a pair of pull-out units accessible via the tailgate. Together, they provide full kitchen facilities plus storage for provisions and cooking gear. Weather protection comes courtesy of a water-resistant teak cover, which can be supported at 45 degrees by pneumatic struts. However, sleeping accommodation is obviously absent, so a suggested solution for overnighting is a roof tent.

Despite being termed concepts, both products look like they’re ready for customers. Perhaps their respective manufacturers are waiting to gauge public reaction before committing to retail them?

Related post:
Mercedes-Benz X-Class pick-up unveiled

Top 10: UK car sales 2017

January 8, 2018, 5:37 am

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In absolute terms, 2017 wasn’t a bad year for new car registrations in the UK. Sure, the overall total was down compared to 2015 and 2016, but that was almost bound to happen.

As the graph below from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders illustrates, the downturn that followed the 2007-2008 financial crisis created a lot of pent-up demand which was largely satisfied over the past couple of years. Arguably, 2017’s figure of circa 2.5 million units can be regarded as a return to normal.

Trying to blame any reduction on public uncertainty about future diesel taxation or usage restrictions is rather misleading, too. The market contraction would have happened anyway.

Nevertheless, consumer behaviour is altering radically.

Diesel’s registration share dropped from 47.7% in 2016 to 42.0% in 2017, which undoubtedly reflects better purchasing decisions. While diesel cars remain entirely suitable for some motorists, for many others the available petrol, hybrid or pure electric alternatives will make more financial sense.

Hopefully, people are no longer choosing a diesel engine without due consideration (especially those who drive modest mileages in mostly urban environments).

Total UK Car Registrations 2017 - By Fuel Type
Fuel	2017	2016	Change	Change %
Diesel	1,065,879	1,285,188	-219,309	-17.1%
Petrol	1,354,917	1,318,707	+36,210	+2.7%
Alternative	119,821	88,891	+30,930	+34.8%
Total	2,540,617	2,692,786	-152,169	-5.7%

Total UK Car Registrations 2017 - By Category
Category	2017	2016	Change	Change %
Private	1,123,860	1,206,250	-82,390	-6.8%
Fleet	1,319,193	1,380,750	-61,557	-4.5%
Business	97,564	105,786	-8,222	-7.8%
Total	2,540,617	2,692,786	-152,169	-5.7%
Fleet + Business	1,416,757	1,486,536	-69,779	-4.7%

Ford remains the UK’s most popular manufacturer, although its year-on-year market share slipped from 11.8% to 11.3%. Dieselgate has clearly been forgiven already, because Volkswagen managed to snatch the runner-up position from Vauxhall.

Lower down the table, Mercedes-Benz leapfrogged BMW and Audi to finish in fourth place, removing any semblance of exclusivity from the brand in the process. Things didn’t go so well for Peugeot, as the French marque was replaced in the top ten by Kia.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2017 - By Manufacturer
Position 2017	Manufacturer	Registrations	Market Share	Position 2016
1	Ford	287,396	11.3%	1
2	Volkswagen	208,462	8.2%	3
3	Vauxhall	195,137	7.7%	2
4	Mercedes-Benz	180,970	7.1%	6
5	BMW	175,101	6.9%	4
6	Audi	174,982	6.9%	5
7	Nissan	151,156	5.9%	7
8	Toyota	101,985	4.0%	9
9	Hyundai	93,403	3.7%	10
10	Kia	93,222	3.7%	11

Of course, the Ford Fiesta continued to dominate the individual model chart. By contrast, the Vauxhall Corsa fell from second to fifth spot.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2017 - By Model
Position	Model	Registrations	Market Share
1	Ford Fiesta	94,533	3.7%
2	Volkswagen Golf	74,605	2.9%
3	Ford Focus	69,903	2.8%
4	Nissan Qashqai	64,216	2.5%
5	Vauxhall Corsa	52,772	2.1%
6	Vauxhall Astra	49,370	1.9%
7	Volkswagen Polo	47,855	1.9%
8	Mini Hatch	47,669	1.9%
9	Mercedes-Benz C-Class	45,912	1.8%
10	Mercedes-Benz A-Class	43,717	1.7%

Related posts:
Top 10: UK car sales 2017 - winners and losers
Top 10: UK car sales 2016 - winners and losers
Top 10: UK car sales 2016

Top 10: UK car sales 2017 - winners and losers

January 8, 2018, 5:38 am

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2017 saw 2,540,617 new cars registered in the UK, a 5.7% reduction compared to 2016. However, as in previous years, some manufacturers bucked the overall market trend, while others most definitely contributed to it.

Most of the over-performing marques were decidedly low-volume players, so their small absolute unit increases resulted in large percentage gains.

2017: A great year for McLaren.

One notable anomaly was Seat, which managed to grow by almost a fifth. To put that achievement into context, the Spanish firm delivered more cars than Honda, Citroën or Fiat.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2017 - Winners
Manufacturer	2017	2016	Change	Change %
McLaren	567	18	549	3,050.0%
Chevrolet	70	4	66	1,650.0%
Aston Martin	1,471	906	565	62.4%
Infiniti	3,515	2,891	624	21.6%
Maserati	1,701	1,435	266	18.5%
Seat	56,130	47,456	8,674	18.3%
Abarth	4,441	3,966	475	12.0%
Porsche	14,051	13,097	954	7.3%
Mercedes-Benz	180,970	169,828	11,142	6.6%
MG	4,441	4,192	249	5.9%
Total Market	2,540,617	2,692,786	-152,169	-5.7%

The losers’ table tells a very different story. With a few exceptions, the worst performers were non-premium producers. That probably says a lot about customers’ changing tastes and their higher expectations.

French-owned brands especially seem to have suffered, because Citroën, DS, Peugeot, Renault and Vauxhall all appear on the list. Indeed, Vauxhall – now a PSA subsidiary – accounted for a third of the industry’s total registrations decline by shifting 55,818 fewer vehicles.

2017: A dreadful year for Vauxhall.

Top 10: Total UK Car Registrations 2017 - Losers
Manufacturer	2017	2016	Change	Change %
Jeep	6,380	14,090	-7,710	-54.7%
DS	9,082	15,898	-6,816	-42.9%
Fiat	44,475	60,581	-16,106	-26.6%
Subaru	2,679	3,612	-933	-25.8%
Vauxhall	195,137	250,955	-55,818	-22.2%
SsangYong	3,590	4,444	-854	-19.2%
Renault	69,110	85,102	-15,992	-18.8%
Citroën	51,455	62,991	-11,536	-18.3%
Lotus	279	339	-60	-17.7%
Peugeot	82,226	98,529	-16,303	-16.5%
Total Market	2,540,617	2,692,786	-152,169	-5.7%

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Top 10: UK car sales 2017
Top 10: UK car sales 2016 - winners and losers
Top 10: UK car sales 2016

Nexo fuel cell EV announced by Hyundai

January 10, 2018, 10:24 am

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Electric cars equipped with hydrogen fuel cells will only become popular when an adequate refuelling infrastructure exists. In the UK, for example, there are currently just twelve hydrogen stations (and five of them are clustered around London).

Unfortunately, that means the Hyundai Nexo might struggle to find customers in Britain. This new FCEV – which replaces the ix35 Fuel Cell – is going to be available soon in selected markets.

Nexo improves on its predecessor across a number of key areas. Many of them stem from the introduction of a dedicated vehicle architecture that’s lighter and allows for better packaging.

A more compact fuel cell stack delivers energy to a 160 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS) electric motor. With 395 Nm (291 lb/ft) of torque, the 0-60 mph (96 km/h) sprint takes 9.5 seconds. By comparison, the 134 bhp (100 kW / 135 PS) ix35 Fuel Cell needs two extra seconds to reach the same speed.

Range is arguably not as critical as it would be for a plug-in electric vehicle (provided there are convenient hydrogen-refill facilities, of course).

Nevertheless, Hyundai estimates that the Nexo could travel for 500 miles (805 kilometres) according to the New European Driving Cycle measure. The equivalent distance achievable by an ix35 Fuel Cell is 131 miles (210 kilometres) less.

Cold-start capability, hot-weather running and high-altitude performance are all claimed to be enhanced, too.

Nexo pricing has yet to be confirmed by Hyundai.

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Toyota updates the Yaris WRC for 2018

January 11, 2018, 2:54 pm

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Ahead of its second season competing in the FIA World Rally Championship, the Yaris WRC has been slightly modified by Toyota Gazoo Racing.

Compared to the 2017 car, the changes are fairly minor. They centre on a redesigned front bumper assembly that’s intended to provide more aerodynamic downforce. The cooling system has received some attention too, primarily to help keep engine temperatures in check during hot-weather events.

This year’s three driver / co-driver crews will be Jari-Matti Latvala / Miika Anttilla, Esapekka Lappi / Janne Ferm and Ott Tänak / Martin Järveoja.

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Top 10: Irish car sales 2017

January 13, 2018, 3:02 pm

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131,335 new cars were registered in Ireland during 2017, according to statistics released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry. That total represented a reduction of just over ten percent compared to 2016.

While many other countries are experiencing a dramatic move away from diesel engines, plenty of Irish buyers are refusing to follow the trend.

Admittedly, diesel’s share fell from 70.1% to 65.2%, but it’s undoubtedly still the most favoured fuel type. Significantly, ‘alternative’ vehicles (i.e. pure electrics and hybrids) experienced the highest growth rate, accounting for 4.1% of all deliveries.

Irish Car Registrations 2017 - By Fuel Type
Fuel	2017	2016	+/-	% +/-
Diesel	85,664	102,748	-17,084	-16.6%
Petrol	40,288	40,641	-353	-0.9%
Alternative	5,383	3,260	+2,123	+65.1%
Total	131,335	146,649	-15,314	-10.4%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the manufacturers listed in the top ten table are unchanged from 2016. Nevertheless, there were some notable position changes.

After dropping to third last year, Volkswagen regained first place. Its market share remained unchanged at 10.5%, though.

The Golf constituted one third of all Volkswagen

registrations in Ireland during 2017.

Toyota slipped from leader to runner-up thanks to major declines across most models. Indeed, if the C-HR hadn’t achieved 1,965 registrations in 2017 (up from 229 in its launch year), then the brand’s overall performance would have been much worse.

Hyundai posted one of the largest individual slumps, consequently falling from second to fourth. Almost three quarters of that decrease were due to fewer Tucson customers.

Every marque in the top ten except Kia shifted a smaller volume in 2017. However, a few others lower down the league managed to do the opposite. Eleventh-placed Mercedes-Benz, for example, realised a 27.6% increase (helped by 1,600 additional E-Class sales), ending the year at 4,838 registrations. Similarly, Seat did 3,301 units, an 18.3% uplift.

Top 10: Irish Car Registrations 2017 - By Manufacturer
Position	Manufacturer	2017	2016	+/-	% +/-
1	Volkswagen	13,830	15,411	-1,581	-10.3%
2	Toyota	12,684	15,530	-2,846	-18.3%
3	Ford	12,243	14,666	-2,423	-16.5%
4	Hyundai	11,917	15,442	-3,525	-22.8%
5	Nissan	10,348	11,878	-1,530	-12.9%
6	Škoda	9,030	9,447	-417	-4.4%
7	Renault	8,328	8,379	-51	-0.6%
8	Kia	7,132	6,710	+422	+6.3%
9	Opel	6,526	7,888	-1,362	-17.3%
10	Audi	5,544	6,066	-522	-8.6%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

Despite a substantial absolute reduction, the aforementioned Hyundai Tucson remained Ireland’s most popular car (although only just). Volkswagen’s Golf was still second, but the Ford Focus descended from third to fifth.

Diminished Toyota Yaris and Corolla sales were primarily responsible for the Kia Sportage rising up from tenth to seventh spot. A new entry on the table was the Volkswagen Tiguan, which forced out the Passat.

Combined, the top ten models generated 36,086 registrations, or 27.5% of the entire market.

Top 10: Irish Car Registrations 2017 - By Model
Position	Model	2017	2016	+/-	% +/-
1	Hyundai Tucson	4,893	7,425	-2,532	-34.1%
2	Volkswagen Golf	4,733	5,464	-731	-13.4%
3	Nissan Qashqai	4,196	4,591	-395	-8.6%
4	Škoda Octavia	3,980	4,660	-680	-14.6%
5	Ford Focus	3,850	4,835	-985	-20.4%
6	Ford Fiesta	3,217	3,827	-610	-15.9%
7	Kia Sportage	3,066	2,871	+195	+6.8%
8	Toyota Yaris	2,881	3,727	-846	-22.7%
9	Toyota Corolla	2,790	3,751	-961	-25.6%
10	Volkswagen Tiguan	2,480	1,632	+848	+52.0%
Figures provided by SIMI Motorstats

Related posts:
Top 10: Irish car sales 2016
Top 10: Irish car sales 2015

2018 NACTOY winners

January 15, 2018, 2:06 pm

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This year’s North American Car of the Year, Truck of the Year and Utility Vehicle of the Year have been named at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

A jury made up of more than sixty motoring journalists from across Canada and the United States decided the results after three rounds of voting.

2018 North American Car of the Year

All too often, the best candidate doesn’t win this kind of contest. Unfortunately, as the most interesting model ended up in second place, that’s been the case here.

Winner: Honda Accord - 277 points
Second: Kia Stinger - 246 points
Third: Toyota Camry - 77 points

Honda Accord: 2018 North American Car of the Year.

2018 North American Truck of the Year

When the only actual truck listed loses to an SUV, perhaps the organisers need to revise their eligibility criteria? Anyway, the outcome suggests that the final ballot split opinions fairly evenly.

Winner: Lincoln Navigator - 212 points
Second: Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 - 200 points
Third: Ford Expedition - 188 points

Lincoln Navigator: 2018 North American Truck of the Year.

2018 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

This category produced a clear-cut victor, which was particularly praised for its luxury appeal, great ride quality and value for money.

Winner: Volvo XC60 - 246 points
Second: Honda Odyssey - 182 points
Third: Alfa Romeo Stelvio - 172 points

Volvo XC60: 2018 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year.

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2018 NACTOY finalists
2017 NACTOY winners

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2019 American-spec Ford Ranger unveiled

January 17, 2018, 2:25 pm

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After a seven-year absence, the Ford Ranger is set to return to North America. The new mid-size pick-up might look familiar, because it’s based on the Ranger T6 that was originally launched in Asia, Europe and other markets in 2011.

Indeed, redesigned bumpers apart, the North American version appears to be virtually identical to the Ranger which is already sold elsewhere. However, there are some significant differences.

Chief among them is the powertrain. Every Ranger destined for Canada and the USA will have a 2.3 litre EcoBoost gasoline engine. Output remains a mystery, but this four-cylinder turbocharged unit is going to come mated to a segment-exclusive ten-speed automatic transmission. Ford isn’t currently intending to offer a manual gearbox alternative.

SuperCab (small rear-hinged rear doors) and SuperCrew (conventional rear doors) configurations are planned. Surprisingly, a two-door regular cab variant – which would appeal particularly to work truck users – won’t be part of the line-up.

Customers will have a choice of XL, XLT or Lariat trim grades and either rear- or four-wheel drive. Optional Chrome and Sport cosmetic upgrades have been confirmed, as have the FX2 and FX4 off-road packages.

Production of the 2019 Ranger is due to begin in Michigan late this year.

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Toyota’s Land Cruiser gets a facelift for 2018

January 20, 2018, 12:55 pm

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Revised styling, more comfort and a better driving experience denote the 2018 Land Cruiser, according to Toyota.

The changes start at the front end, where the bumper, headlights and grille have been redesigned. Also, the bonnet’s centre section has an altered profile to improve downward visibility, while the top sections of the flanking wings are now higher to aid vehicle placement.

In a similar vein, the rear light clusters, bumper and number plate surround are all modified. Altogether, the alterations have added 60 mm (2.3”) to the Land Cruiser’s overall length.

Inside, the highlight is an updated dashboard layout that’s claimed to improve the ergonomics. A refreshed instrument binnacle gains a 4.2” TFT colour multi-information display, the switchgear has been rearranged and the centre console can be specified with an 8” colour touchscreen infotainment system. Other enhancements include front-seat ventilation, rear-seat heating and reverse-tilting door mirrors.

Perhaps the most significant development is the introduction of an entry-level Utility trim grade. Available in three- and five-door guises, it comes with 17” steel wheels and a decent level of equipment. Air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth, a USB port, a CD player, front fog lights and automatic headlights are all standard. Buyers should choose plain white paintwork to achieve a proper ‘disaster relief NGO’ look.

However, anybody requiring serious off-road ability might have to consider the Land Cruiser Invincible instead. That’s because this range-topping variant boasts Multi-Terrain Select, Multi-Terrain Monitor, Crawl Control, an under-vehicle camera, a locking Torsen rear differential and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

As before, power comes from a turbocharged 2.8 litre diesel engine which delivers 175 bhp (130 kW/ 176 PS) with 370 Nm (272 lb/ft) of peak torque.

2018 Toyota Land Cruiser – UK on-the-road prices
Trim grade	Body style	Transmission	OTR price
Utility	3-door / 5 seats	6-speed manual	£32,795
Utility	5-door / 5 seats	6-speed manual	£34,095
Utility	5-door / 5 seats	6-speed automatic	£35,795
Active	5-door / 5 seats	6-speed automatic	£39,095
Active	5-door / 7 seats	6-speed automatic	£39,700
Icon	5-door / 7 seats	6-speed automatic	£47,495
Invincible	5-door / 7 seats	6-speed automatic	£52,295

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2018 BMW M8 GTE livery revealed

January 25, 2018, 9:27 am

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This year’s IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship begins at the weekend with the Rolex 24 at Daytona. The event will see the début of the BMW M8 GTE, run by BMW Team RLL.

Unusually, the race car’s corresponding road-going model – the 8 Series Coupé – has still to be launched, which presented some difficulties for the project. According to Jens Marquardt, BMW Motorsport Director, “Right from the word go, we worked with our colleagues in production development to synchronise the individual steps as closely as possible.

“It was a challenge. When we needed the first chassis of the production car, there simply wasn’t one yet. We were, however, able to work with special prototype chassis from production development. We progressed step by step in that manner. Furthermore, at the start of our development, there were still minor changes to the production model. To a certain degree, we were dealing with a moving target.”

Measuring 4,980 mm (196.1”) long (excluding the rear wing) by 2,046 mm (80.6”) wide (excluding the door mirrors), the M8 GTE is certainly large. However, thanks to the extensive use of composites and carbon fibre, it weighs just 1,220 kg (2,690 lbs).

Power comes from a turbocharged 4.0 litre V8 with a cylinder block and a cylinder head that are both derived from the production engine’s. An output of over 500 horsepower (around 370 kW) is delivered through a six-speed sequential transmission.

Two cars are going to compete at Daytona. The #24 M8 GTE is being driven by John Edwards, Jesse Krohn, Nick Catsburg and Augusto Farfus, while Alexander Sims, Connor De Phillippi, Bill Auberlen and Philipp Eng are sharing the #25 entry.

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2018 Kia Rio GT-Line first view

January 25, 2018, 11:30 am

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Another Kia model will soon be available in GT-Line guise. The latest candidate is the five-door Rio supermini, which is due to arrive at dealers after appearing at March’s Geneva Motor Show.

The GT-Line trim grade typically appeals to customers who want sporty looks without particularly sporty performance (and the associated higher insurance costs). Accordingly, the Rio version features LED front fog lights, a unique grille treatment, 17” alloy wheels, sill accents, twin exhaust tips and a black roof spoiler.

There’s black faux leather upholstery inside, as well as a flat-bottom leather-covered steering wheel and a fake carbon fibre dashboard finish.

Initially, the sole engine being offered is a 1.0 litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol unit. Producing 118 bhp (88 kW / 120 PS) with 171 Nm (126 lb/ft) of peak torque, it’s mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. If that combination isn’t tempting enough, then Kia is planning to add 1.25 and 1.4 litre petrol alternatives (and a seven-speed double-clutch transmission) later this year.

UK pricing and final specifications for the Rio GT-Line have yet to be announced.

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McLaren Newport Beach delivers the MSO X

January 27, 2018, 1:31 pm

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Taking its inspiration from the McLaren 570S GT4 racer, the MSO X is a street-legal car that should be equally suited to hard track use. The project, which was commissioned by USA dealer McLaren Newport Beach, resulted in ten examples being built by McLaren Special Operations.

Compared to a regular 570S Coupé, there are various exterior modifications that are intended to optimise the aerodynamics. They include the addition of front dive planes, custom bonnet air intakes, a functional roof-mounted induction snorkel and a bespoke rear bumper.

Furthermore, a very conspicuous pylon-mounted rear wing generates an extra 100 kg (220 lbs) of downforce. An MSO Titanium Super Sports Exhaust and a set of Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres are also part of the enhanced specification.

Like the exterior, the cockpit features plenty of exposed carbon fibre. Other distinguishing elements comprise six-point harnesses (as well as normal three-point seatbelts), a raised centre console, a helmet storage space in the bulkhead and a telemetry system.

As a finishing touch, each MSO X wears a unique motorsport-derived livery. All have been sold already.

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2019 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn Edition

January 28, 2018, 2:47 pm

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Ram’s all-new 2019 1500 pick-up range is going to include the upmarket Laramie Longhorn Edition. Its interior boasts a distinctly luxury ambience courtesy of full-grain leather, real wood accents, satin chrome trim pieces and mood lighting.

Identifying features on the outside include a chrome billet grille, LED headlights with the Adaptive Front-lighting System, side steps and unique 20” or 22” wheels. What’s more, two-tone paint finishes are available to give the truck a particularly swanky look.

Compared to the previous model, the 2019 Ram 1500 is lighter by 102 kg (225 lbs) and maximum payload has been increased to 1,043 kg (2,300 lbs). Those better figures are mainly the result of a completely redesigned chassis that’s primarily made from high-strength steel. Also contributing to the weight savings is the use of aluminium for components such as the bonnet and tailgate.

The engine line-up consists of a 305 bhp (227 kW / 309 PS) 3.6 litre Pentastar V6 and a 395 bhp (294 kW / 400 PS) 5.7 litre Hemi V8. The only transmission being offered is a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic.

Both powertrain options come with the innovative eTorque mild hybrid system, which replaces an alternator with a belt-driven motor-generator unit and a 48 volt lithium-ion battery pack. This set-up is responsible for brake energy recuperation and a start-stop function, plus it can deliver additional torque for short periods.

Other devices further benefit economy too. For instance, there’s an improved deceleration fuel shut-off mechanism and electric power steering is fitted for the first time.

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2018 World Car Awards finalists

January 29, 2018, 3:00 pm

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A jury of more than eighty international motoring journalists has decided the 2018 World Car Awards finalists.

2018 World Car of the Year

Significantly, some high-profile models have failed to progress to the next stage. Among the casualties are the Ford Fiesta, Honda Accord, Vauxhall Insignia / Opel Insignia / Buick Regal and Volkswagen Polo.

Of the remaining candidates, the Nissan Leaf and Kia Stinger should be favourites to ultimately win this category.

• Alfa Romeo Giulia
• BMW X3
• Kia Stinger
• Land Rover Discovery
• Land Rover Range Rover Velar
• Mazda CX-5
• Nissan Leaf
• Toyota Camry
• Volkswagen T-Roc
• Volvo XC60

Kia Stinger

2018 World Luxury Car

There were only ever five contenders for this prize. Might the sole Japanese representative manage to beat its four German rivals?

• Audi A8
• BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo
• Lexus LS
• Porsche Cayenne
• Porsche Panamera

Lexus LS

2018 World Performance Car

Hot hatch aficionados will be disappointed to learn that the Hyundai i30N and the Volkswagen Polo GTI have been eliminated. Surprisingly, the Alpine A110 and the Ferrari Portofino didn’t receive enough support to proceed either.

• Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
• Audi RS 3 Saloon
• BMW M5
• Honda Civic Type R
• Lexus LC 500

BMW M5

2018 World Urban Car

This rather unnecessary accolade seems to be focussed on size as a criterion. A higher driving position is in the Hyundai’s favour, but otherwise all of the qualifying cars seem equally suited to a purely urban environment.

• Ford Fiesta
• Hyundai Kona
• Nissan Micra
• Suzuki Swift
• Volkswagen Polo

Suzuki Swift

2018 World Green Car

If the pure-electric Nissan Leaf doesn’t defeat its combustion-engined opposition, then there is something seriously wrong with how the best ‘green’ vehicle is determined.

• BMW 530e iPerformance
• Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
• Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
• Nissan Leaf

Nissan Leaf

2018 World Car Design of the Year

The methodology here is notably different. All eligible cars from the other five awards were automatically entered, then the shortlist below was agreed by a panel of seven design experts from around the globe.

• Alpine A110
• Citroën C3 Aircross
• Land Rover Range Rover Velar
• Lexus LC 500
• Volvo XC60

Volvo XC60

Ahead of a 13th of February deadline, the jurors must now test drive the finalists again before taking part in a last ballot. Following that, the top three finalists for each trophy are going to be announced at the Geneva Motor Show on the 6th of March.

The winners are then due to be revealed at the New York International Auto Show on the 28th of March.

Related posts:
2018 NACTOY winners
2018 European Car of the Year nominees
2018 World Car Awards eligibility lists

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Lister creates the 208 mph F-Type Thunder

February 1, 2018, 2:36 pm

≫ Next: 2018 MotoGP livery for Suzuki’s GSX-R1000

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Cambridgeshire-based Lister has had a long association with Jaguar. Lawrence Whittaker, CEO of the company, wants the connection to continue via a new collection of modified cars.

Indeed, he has clearly signalled his aspirations by saying, “Like Brabus and AMG with Mercedes and Alpina with BMW, we are hoping to become synonymous once again with tuning Jaguar vehicles, giving customers new enhanced, bespoke performance and design alternatives to Jaguar’s acclaimed model programme.”

That strategy’s first manifestation is the Lister Thunder, which will be unveiled at the Historic Motorsport International event in London later this month. Essentially, it’s a Jaguar F-Type with a comprehensive set of upgrades.

Full specifications have yet to be disclosed, but output from the supercharged 5.0 litre V8 engine has been increased from the regular F-Type SVR’s 567 bhp (423 kW / 575 PS) to 666 bhp (496 kW / 675 PS).

Consequently, the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time is down from the usual 3.7 seconds to “just over” three seconds. Top speed meanwhile is up by 8 mph (13 km/h) to 208 mph (335 km/h).

Identifying features include a larger front splitter, additional bonnet vents, unique carbon fibre bumpers and numerous special badges. Inside, there’s a complete re-trim using nappa leather.

Lister is intending to limit Thunder production to just 99 examples, with prices starting at £139,950. By comparison, an F-Type SVR currently costs from £112,680, so the premium doesn’t appear to be too unreasonable.

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2018 MotoGP livery for Suzuki’s GSX-R1000

February 2, 2018, 11:45 am

≫ Next: Mercedes-Benz launches the Vito Sport Line

≪ Previous: Lister creates the 208 mph F-Type Thunder

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Following the recent unveiling of its 2018 GSX-RR MotoGP bike, Suzuki has confirmed that a replica colour scheme will soon be available for the road-going GSX-R1000 and GSX-R1000R.

As per previous seasons, the paintwork is predominantly Triton Blue metallic with yellow accents. One notable change for this year is the addition of some subtle black elements.

Suzuki isn’t charging anything extra for the latest MotoGP replicas. Therefore, the GSX-R1000 version has a recommended retail price of £13,599, while the GSX-R1000R alternative costs £16,099.

Deliveries are due to begin in March.

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Mercedes-Benz launches the Vito Sport Line

February 4, 2018, 1:57 pm

≫ Next: 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe first view

≪ Previous: 2018 MotoGP livery for Suzuki’s GSX-R1000

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A sporty upgrade package for the Vito makes a lot of sense. After all, it’s the type of van that’s often driven by people who seem to be in a hurry.

Although there are no engine modifications, the new Vito Sport Line specification does include a stiffer suspension set-up and either 18” or 19” alloy wheels.

A suitably purposeful look is provided by the addition of side skirts, graphics and (where applicable) rear privacy glass. Furthermore, a chrome-plated front grille is fitted and the bumpers are body-coloured.

There’s chrome trim inside too, along with black artificial leather upholstery and velour floor mats.

The Sport Line option will be available across Europe for all Vito body styles. UK pricing has yet to be announced, but in Germany the extra cost varies between €2,500 and €4,100 (roughly £2,200 and £3,600 at current exchange rates).

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2019 Hyundai Santa Fe first view

February 6, 2018, 9:16 am

≫ Next: 2018 Ford Ka+ revealed

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Ahead of a public début at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, Hyundai has released some images of its new Santa Fe.

This mid-size SUV – which has grown in length by 70 mm (3”) to 4,770 mm (15’ 8”) – is claimed to offer class-leading interior space. Hyundai is also saying that the cabin is a “premium quality” environment.

Outside, the front end is undoubtedly the fourth-generation Santa Fe’s most appealing aspect. Slim headlights, a bold chrome horizontal element and a ‘cascading’ grille combine to give a striking appearance while visually widening the vehicle’s stance.

Full specifications have yet to be disclosed, but numerous safety features will be available. They include Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (with automatic braking) and Safety Exit Assist (with automatic door locking).

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2018 Ford Ka+ revealed

February 6, 2018, 3:10 pm

≫ Next: Top 10: Facts about the 2019 Sprinter

≪ Previous: 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe first view

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Over three model generations, the Ford Ka has grown in size, acquired two extra doors, gained a ‘+’ suffix and become less interesting. Indeed, the current version (which was designed in Brazil and is built in India) essentially plays a ‘budget Fiesta’ role.

However, the car’s image might be boosted by a just-announced mid-life refresh, especially as a crossover-inspired Active variant is being added to the range.

An increased ride height, unique bumpers, 15” alloy wheels, arch protectors and roof rails identify the Ka+ Active. Although all-wheel drive isn’t fitted, there is a bespoke chassis set-up. This comprises a thicker front anti-roll bar, a wider track, revised power-assisted steering, Active Rollover Prevention and recalibrated dampers with hydraulic rebound stoppers.

Ford has also taken the opportunity to enhance available equipment levels across all trim grades. Now included on the list are automatic lights and wipers, heated front seats, climate control and the Sync 3 touchscreen-controlled infotainment system.

Other major changes concern the powertrains. Replacing the old 1.2 litre four-cylinder Duratec petrol engine is a 1.2 litre three-cylinder Ti-VCT motor that can be specified with either 69 bhp (51 kW / 70 PS) or 83 bhp (62 kW / 85 PS).

What’s more, a diesel alternative is being offered for the first time (a seemingly bizarre decision when buyers are deserting the fuel in their droves). The 93 bhp (69 kW / 95 PS) 1.5 litre TDCi unit is aimed predominantly at higher-mileage drivers.

All three options come with a stop-start device and a five-speed manual transmission.

Sales of the updated Ka+ are due to begin across Europe later this year. Prices in the UK will start at £10,550.

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