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Honda Insight

Honda Insight : Production Car Image Released

Honda has released the first photograph of the production version of the all-new Insight hybrid, which makes its world debut in January 2009, at the Detroit Motor Show.

This first image of the US version of Honda’s affordable family hybrid shows how the new five-passenger, five-door Insight will look, when it goes on sale in the UK in spring 2009.

Honda aims to sell 200,000 Insights globally, per year. The hatchback will be the first of a new family of Honda hybrids, followed by a production version of the CR-Z concept sportscar, and a Jazz hybrid .

 

 

 

Audi A5 Cabriolet

Audi A5 Coupe Inspires All-New Cabriolet Range

Elegant coupe lines blend with fast-retracting soft-top to create beautiful and practical new Audi Cabriolet

• New A5 Cabriolet and S5 Cabriolet models due to open for order in early 2009 for first UK deliveries next spring – A5 OTR prices expected to start at just under £30,000, S5 at approximately £42,000
• Lightweight soft-top opens in 15 seconds and closes in 17 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph – acoustic roof option brings cabin noise close to fixed head levels
• New neck-level heating option for open-top driving on cooler days, solar heat reflecting upholstery keeps seats cool during sun exposure
• Initially available in the UK with two FSI direct injection petrol engines and one TDI diesel – 2.0 TFSI 211PS, 3.2 FSI 265PS, 3.0 TDI 240PS
• S5 adopts much praised new 3.0-litre supercharged V6 TFSI unit with 333PS in place of the familiar naturally aspirated V8
• 3.0 TDI and S5 models feature quattro four-wheel-drive as standard – other models are front-wheel-driven - 2.0 TFSI 211PS and 3.2 FSI offer quattro as an option
• Manual, S tronic twin-clutch and multitronic CVT transmissions
• Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system includes option of new quattro sport differential for selected models

The Audi A5 with a sunnier disposition - the new A5 Cabriolet - is set to make its UK debut next spring, and will be closely followed by a new S5 Cabriolet flagship. Priced from just under £30,000, and available to order from February, the striking four-seat A5 soft-top range capitalizes on the space maximizing extended wheelbase length and state-of-the art engines, transmissions and chassis configuration that have secured success for the A5 Coupé.

Roof up or down, the A5 Cabriolet makes light work of transporting up to four adults in comfort thanks to its extended wheelbase, which helps to maximize cabin space. When the soft top is in place, a best-in-class luggage capacity of 380 litres also enables easy accommodation of luggage for four, and in topless mode the roof stowage compartment only marginally reduces this impressive total to 320 litres. Thanks to the standard split/folding rear seat back a maximum capacity of 750 litres can be accessed if required.

Supercharged S5 Cabriolet heads range

The ultimate specification will of course belong to the new S5 Cabriolet, which is due to join the UK range soon after the A5 Cabriolet models priced at approximately £42,000. The S5 will ride lower than standard versions on specially tailored ‘S’ sports suspension and 19-inch ‘S’ design alloy wheels. Aluminium-look door mirrors, Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, rear LED lamps, special ‘S’ front and rear styling treatments and black painted brake callipers bearing the S5 logo will also be distinguishing features.

The S5 adopts the very latest supercharged V6 TFSI engine, which combines an impressive 333PS power output, giving 5.6-second 0-62mph potential, with outstanding fuel economy that makes up to 29.4mpg possible (provisional figure, combined cycle). The S tronic twin-clutch transmission and quattro four-wheel-drive are standard features, the latter offering the option of the sports differential for maximum driving pleasure.

 

Bologna Motor Show 2008

Volkswagen at the Bologna Motorshow 2008

Volkswagen is presenting a range of new models at the Bologna Motor Show including the world premieres of the second-generation Golf Plus, the race derived Scirocco Studie R concept and the LPG-powered Golf BiFuel.

Golf Plus

The second-generation Golf Plus makes its world debut in Bologna, with styling revisions forging a link to the design of the new, sixth generation Golf hatchback. Equipped with a range of highly-efficient petrol and common rail diesel engines with improved levels of fuel economy and reduced emissions, the new Golf Plus reaches new levels of quality and refinement while continuing to be one of the most practical and versatile vehicles in its class.

Scirocco Studie R

Volkswagen’s latest design study, the Scirocco Studie R, premieres at Bologna and is inspired by the Scirocco GT24 which raced to success in its class at the Nürburgring 24-hour endurance race earlier this year. Finished in white, the Studie R has contrasting high-gloss black detailing and styling accents in red and green to the wing mirrors and on the ‘Bologna ‘08’ badging, paying homage to the Show’s host nation.

Three large air intakes at the front aid cooling to the uprated 2.0-litre 270 PS engine, while a front splitter is designed to minimise lift. The rear is dominated by a large rear wing and a distinctive revised rear bumper which incorporates a diffuser and twin oval exhausts. The Studie R is fitted with racing-derived sports suspension and four-piston brake callipers sit behind specially developed bespoke polished five arm, triple spoke 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside the cabin, the Scirocco Studie R is upholstered with black and white nappa leather and complemented with low- and high-gloss carbonfibre trim. The Italian-inspired red and green design accents continue on the seams of the Recaro seats, steering wheel, armrest, gearknob and floor mats.

Golf BiFuel

The third Volkswagen making its debut in Bologna is the Golf BiFuel which has been specifically developed to run on both LPG and conventional petrol. The factory-built hatchback is fitted with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder 98 PS engine which, in conventional petrol mode, returns 39.8 mpg and emits 149 g/km of carbon dioxide. When run on LPG, the Golf BiFuel has a theoretical range of more than 260 miles, and this emissions figure is reduced by ten per cent.

The engine fitted to the Golf BiFuel has been specifically configured and tested for LPG operation making it more durable than modified petrol engines. The vehicle, with both petrol and LPG fuel tanks, has also undergone extensive crash-testing making it safer than aftermarket alternatives.

Passat CC Individual

Volkswagen is also showcasing the Passat CC Individual which features a number of bespoke styling upgrades. The four-door coupé is presented in pearl effect ‘Moonlight Blue’, with newly designed 18-inch ‘Chicago Black’ alloy wheels and ‘Individual’ badging.

The interior of the Passat CC Individual is fitted with six-way power comfort seats upholstered with two-tone soft and nappa leather, complemented by piano black trim and an extended chrome package which includes chrome bezels on the door handles and switches for the electric windows and mirrors. Subtle ‘Individual’ badging continues with illuminated tread plates in the front and rear doors.

The Passat CC is the fourth ‘Individual’ model shown by Volkswagen, following the Eos, Passat and Touareg.

Passat TSI EcoFuel – Italian premiere

Making its Italian debut, the Passat TSI Ecofuel is fitted with the world’s first turbo direct-injection engine developed and configured to operate with natural gas. These developments enable the Passat TSI EcoFuel to run efficiently on both natural gas and petrol and to offer economy and low emissions with no detrimental effect on performance.

Accelerating from a standstill to 62 mph in 9.7 seconds and with a maximum speed of 130 mph the 1.4-litre 150 PS engine, coupled with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG gearbox, emits just 119 g/km of CO2 while developing 220 Nm of torque at 1,500 rpm. A theoretical range of more than 300 miles using only natural gas is supplemented by a 31-litre reserve tank for conventional petrol which offers an additional 260 miles.

 

Volkswagen Golf Plus

New Golf Plus Premieres at the Bologna Motorshow

Volkswagen has today unveiled the second generation Golf Plus at the Bologna Motor Show in Italy.

The updated design of the new Golf Plus forges a link to the bodystyle of the sixth generation Golf hatchback and gives a distinctive and dynamic appearance. The front is dominated by the horizontally aligned band of the radiator grille with two high-gloss black cross-bars and an integrated Volkswagen roundel, between revised headlights.

Exterior styling revisions continue with a slightly lower profile than the previous generation and with newly designed integrated roof rails. At the rear, the new Golf Plus has a fully colour-coded redesigned bumper and revised ‘cherry red’ rear lights incorporating LED technology. The exterior styling modifications are complemented by a range of new wheel and tyre options, including 18-inch ‘Bilbao’ alloy wheels from Volkswagen Individual.

Inside the cabin, further improvements have been made and the new Golf Plus reaches a new level of quality while continuing to be one of the most practical and versatile vehicles in its class. New upholstery materials and details are carried over from the new Golf, while clearly defined white backlit instruments, with brushed chrome surrounds, steering wheel options and air conditioning systems are similar to those in the new Golf and Passat CC.

Engines are still to be confirmed but a range of advanced petrol and diesels add further refinement to the revised model, with improved levels of fuel economy and reduced emissions. Both petrol and diesel models are linked to either a five- or six-speed manual or a six- or seven-speed DSG gearbox.

One petrol option will be a 1.4-litre 122 PS TSI engine which is forecast to return 44.8 mpg with carbon dioxide emissions of 146 g/km and a top speed of 124 mph. Common rail TDI engines, all fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) will be available with outputs between 90 PS and 140 PS. The 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS has a top speed of 127 mph, and is expected to emit just 135 g/km while returning 55.4 mpg.

For the first time on the Golf Plus, Volkswagen’s ParkAssist will be offered. This system has the ability to operate the steering automatically during reverse parallel parking manoeuvres. A rear-view camera, mounted behind the Volkswagen roundel on the bootlid, is also available as an option. The system, currently available on the new Golf, Tiguan and Passat CC, transmits an image and graphic guidelines to the dash-mounted radio or navigation screen to assist with parking.

Prices, engines and specifications for the new Golf Plus will be announced closer to the vehicle’s UK launch in Spring 2009.

 

Fiat Bravo 2.0 Multijet

More Power, Less Fuel, Lower Emissions

Fiat has just extended its popular Bravo mid-size hatchback range with the introduction of a more powerful yet more economical and lower emissions engine, demonstrating the Group’s commitment to the production of increasingly environmentally-friendly cars.

The 5-door Bravo range will now benefit from a new 165 bhp 2.0 MultiJet unit which features a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and is type-approved to Euro 5 standards, ahead of the 2009 deadline.

The new version, available in Sport and Dynamic specification, is not just ‘greener’ – it further underscores the liveliness, flexibility and driving pleasure that have always been features of the Bravo. Fiat’s new 2.0 MultiJet is a logical evolution of the 1.9 MultiJet, which it will progressively replace. Main benefits are greater performance (torque increased to 360 Nm, and power up to 165 bhp), reduced emissions (down to just 139 g/km) and lower fuel consumption (53 mpg over the combined cycle).

Compared with the 1.9 MultiJet, an increase in cubic capacity has been achieved by increasing the cylinder bore; while a reduction in compression ratio has made it possible to achieve a substantial reduction in NOx levels. A new type of low voltage spark plug allows starting with the minimum pre-heating time.

Compliance with Euro 5 is guaranteed by the use of a close-coupled DPF that is standard on both versions, and by an advanced exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR) with all its sub-components packaged into one small element (EGR module).

Despite a significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions, the Bravo 2.0 MultiJet boasts category-topping performance: top speed is 134 mph and acceleration from 0-62 mph takes just 8.2 seconds. Economy is further improved with long service intervals that confirm the impressive reliability achieved by Fiat’s MultiJet engines.

The new 2.0 MultiJet is another example of class-leading products that have been introduced since the Bravo’s launch, which make the model a benchmark in its category in terms of style, substance and state-of-the-art technology. Others include the introduction of the powerful T-Jet turbocharged petrol engine range, the remarkable 1.6 MultiJet diesel engine, and the introduction of the innovative Dualogic sequential gearbox.

Leading safety credentials for driver and passengers are offered on the Euro NCAP 5-star-rated Bravo courtesy of a standard ESP (Electronic Stability Program), the option of the ‘Blue&Me’ hands-free communication, information and entertainment system, and Blue&Me Nav, an ultra-efficient pictogram navigation system.

The new Bravo 2.0 MultiJet starts at £16,855 OTR for the Dynamic, rising to £17,155 OTR for the Sport

 

Ford Kuga

Ford Adds Economy, Power and Convenience to the new Kuga Range

• Three new range additions
• 2.0-litre TDCi 2WD - 159g/km CO2
• 2.5-litre Duratec – 200PS and 320Nm
• Five-speed automatic option on 2.5-litre Duratec

Ford is set to expand the appeal of the popular Kuga crossover with the addition of three new models providing lower CO2, automatic transmission, and greater power and torque. 

Retaining the style and refinement of the existing Kuga 2.0-litre TDCi, but with a CO2 output of just 159g/km, the new front-wheel-drive version delivers both enhanced fuel economy and cost benefits for business users.

As legislation changes in April next year, Kuga 2WD will especially benefit business customers who will be eligible for a 20 per cent annual write down allowance against Corporation Tax for a car with less than 160g/km CO2 (compared with 10 per cent over 160g/km).  Customers will also benefit from the model’s improved fuel economy as it falls into the new sub-160g/km banding for Vehicle Excise Duty.

Ford has also added new performance flagships to the Kuga range, pairing intelligent AWD with the acclaimed 2.5-litre Duratec engine found in the Focus ST, Mondeo and S-MAX. With 200PS and linear torque of 320Nm (between 1,600 and 4,000rpm) the five-cylinder petrol-engined Kuga powers from standstill to 62mph in just 8.2sec and on to a top speed of 129mph when mated with the six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed automatic transmission is alternatively available with this engine.

Downsizing is a relatively recent market development. The Kuga 2.5-litre petrol targets those customers migrating from large SUVs who are unwilling to sacrifice performance and style. The large SUV segment in particular has fallen substantially year on year.

Optional run-flat tyres add to the array of premium features, which also include rear- facing reversing camera, panorama glass roof and DAB radio.

 

Cold Weather Tyres

Call for trade to educate motorists on cold weather tyres

Garages and tyre retailers can play their part in helping motorists stay safe on the roads this winter by advising them to consider cold weather tyres

TyreSafe is calling on garages and tyre retailers to educate motorists on the benefits of fitting cold weather tyres to improve road safety and reduce the number of road traffic accidents. Despite the change in road conditions at the onset of winter, many drivers continue to drive on standard tyres. Slippery roads accounted for 55 percent of road traffic accidents in which road environment was a contributory factor in 2007, according to Department for Transport (DfT) figures. In November 2007, the DfT recorded a spike in personal injury accidents as drivers were caught out by the drop in temperature and increased rainfall, with 16,559 accidents recorded, nearly 700 more accidents than any other month in the year.

“Fitting cold weather tyres can provide significant safety benefits for motorists,” explains Rob Beddis, TyreSafe chairman. “With temperatures frequently below 7°C in the UK over the winter, particularly in rush hour when the traffic is at its heaviest, cold weather tyres offer a sensible alternative on the wet roads. They are designed to perform more effectively in cold, wet conditions, dramatically reducing stopping distances.”

Cold weather tyres are specifically engineered to offer improved vehicle performance and reduce stopping distances in cold, wet conditions. They contain a higher quantity of natural rubber compound compared to standard tyres, which stops them from hardening as much in the cold. Instead of hardening up in low temperatures and riding over the road surface, the tread keys into the road surface, allowing them to grip better. Braking tests conducted by a leading tyre manufacturer and TyreSafe member revealed that at 5°C a vehicle fitted with cold weather tyres travelling at 62 mph stopped a full five metres earlier than the same vehicle with standard tyres. Motorists can also benefit from using cold weather tyres in snowy conditions, as they have many more delicate cuts in the tread which are designed to absorb snow, allowing the tyres to maintain their grip when driving over snow-covered roads.

In parts of Europe, specific dates are defined by law for the changeover of standard to cold weather tyres. However, in the UK, where annual temperatures typically range from -5°C to 30°C, usage of cold weather tyres is far less common, as legislation dictating changeover does not exist. Garages and tyre retailers interested in raising awareness of the benefits of cold weather tyres can play their part by giving advice to motorists, generating extra tyre sales in the process. The trade can also offer advice on the correct storage of standard tyres over the winter months, and explain that cold weather tyres can be fitted to existing rims.

For further information on cold tyres, a leaflet is available for download from the TyreSafe website, www.tyresafe.org.

 

Mini Convertible

Out in the open
Second incarnation of Britain’s favourite sun-loving small car ready for launch in spring

The new MINI Convertible is set to make a welcome return to UK roads in 2009, with a completely new version of the British-built favourite due to go on sale on 28 March 2009. 

MINI Cooper and Cooper S derivatives featuring innovative engine technologies will be offered at launch, meaning fans of the compact, premium new MINI Convertible are guaranteed performance, frugality, minimal running costs and a unique image as standard.  The MINI Cooper Convertible will be priced at £15,995 OTR and the MINI Cooper S Convertible will be offered from £18,995 OTR.

The first-generation MINI Convertible experienced remarkable sales success in Britain and was a best seller in the UK in the small convertible segment between 2004 and 2008.  Approximately 164,000 MINI Convertibles were delivered to owners around the world during its lifecycle.  Demand for its successor, complete with an array of technological and design advances, is sure to be strong. 

Exterior design highlights

Exclusive to the new drop-top will be two all-new colours to feature on a MINI. Interchange Yellow and Horizon Blue will make their debuts on the second-generation new MINI Convertible.  Contrasting roof options add visual appeal to the newcomer, and British customers will be able to pick from Black, Denim Blue and Hot Chocolate when specifying their perfect MINI.

For the first-time in a MINI Convertible, Air Conditioning will be fitted as standard.  An added benefit to owners will be that the lockable glovebox will receive cooled air and ensure its contents remain icey, while passengers enjoy the sun. 

Top up to top down in just 15 seconds

The automatic canvas roof of the second-generation new MINI Convertible can be fully retracted or closed using a roof-frame mounted toggle switch in just 15 seconds.  In the event of a driver being caught unexpectedly by a sudden downpour, this function will fully operate with the car at speeds of up to 20 mph.

As an alternative to the complete top-down driving experience, the full-width of the electric roof can be retracted by approximately 40 centimetres to create the effect of a sunroof.  This function can be operated at speeds of up to 75 mph.

A unique feature typical of MINI will be the Openometer.  Offered as an option, the Openometer records the time spent by the owner driving with the top down, meaning passengers can measure their visual coolness inside, even if it’s cold outside.

Clever use of space means the luggage capacity of the new car is greater than that of the first generation model.  The easy-load boot compartment now has a capacity of 125 litres (up from 120) with the roof open and 170 litres with the roof closed (previously 165). With the rear seat folded down and roof closed, luggage space totals 660 litres, 55 litres more than the previous MINI Convertible.

Bike rack preparation will be supplied with the car as standard.  The mounting points are obscured from view and positioned behind the rear bumper, meaning owners are able to easily affix multi-function carriers as and when required. 

A boost for car manufacturing in Britain

The second-generation new MINI Convertible will be built in Britain. The body shells will be pressed at MINI Plant Swindon, the engines will be built at BMW Group Hams Hall and assembly of the entire cars will take place at MINI’s Plant Oxford production facility, alongside the MINI Hatch and MINI Clubman.

 

VW Jetta

JETTA TDI CLEAN DIESEL NAMED 2009 GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR

The Volkswagen Jetta TDI Clean Diesel has been honoured at the Los Angeles Motor Show by the Green Car Journal, being crowned ‘2009 Green Car of the Year’.

The Jetta, which takes centre stage at the Los Angeles Show this month, is the first diesel vehicle to receive the prestigious award.

A jury of nine environmental and automotive experts from North America commended the Jetta TDI for its strong performance, fuel economy and low emissions.

Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal commented:  ‘Hybrids have dominated the discussion of environmentally positive vehicles in recent years.  The highly fuel efficient, 50 state emissions certified Jetta TDI shows that advanced clean diesel has arrived and is poised to change this dynamic.  With its affordable price point, refined ride and handling, and high fuel economy, the Jetta TDI shows that hybrids now have a strong competitor in the marketplace.’

The Jetta uses a 2.0-litre four cylinder common rail TDI engine producing 140 PS and 320 Nm (236 lbs ft) of torque at 1,750 rpm.  Two key modifications have been made to the ‘Clean Diesel’ engine to substantially reduce the Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions. 

The common rail engine in the Jetta TDI clean diesel adopts optimised combustion chamber geometries and precise injection processes at extremely high pressures reduce the production of NOx.  An exhaust gas recirculation process in the combustion chamber then reduces the concentration of oxygen with which the nitrogen can react and controls the combustion temperatures.  This process can reduce temperature-dependent NOx emissions by up to 60 percent.

As a further measure to reduce emissions, a highly-efficient NOx storage catalytic converter soaks up any nitrogen oxides which remain.  This filter is cleaned regularly, and without the driver knowing, through an automated engine management mode.

These modifications make the Jetta TDI one of the cleanest and most fuel efficient vehicles on sale in North America.  It meets the strictest emissions regulations in the world including BIN5 standard, which is equivalent to the Euro 6 standard which becomes law in 2014.

The Jetta continues to enjoy sustained popularity in the North American market, enjoying popularity primarily with younger buyers.  It is the best-selling European vehicle in the US, accounting for 40 per cent of Volkswagen’s US sales.  The Jetta TDI with Clean Diesel has been available across North America since August 2008.

‘It is a tremendous honour to have our Jetta TDI awarded Green Car of the Year,’ said Stefan Jacoby, CEO, Volkswagen Group of America.  ‘We believe the Jetta TDI provides our customers with the best of both worlds – excellent fuel efficiency combined with a dynamic driving experience.’

 

Vauxhall Insignia

Vauxhall Insignia Takes Honours in topgear.com Awards

The Vauxhall Insignia has received a TopGear.com award, and the full story is available from today in Top Gear magazine.

Its Executive Car of the Year went to the all-new Insignia which is now on sale in the UK.

Fresh from its recent victory in 2009 European Car of the Year, the Insignia was praised by Top Gear’s journalists for being ‘..aspirational, appealing and special’. The team also noted how far ahead of the game Vauxhall was with the Insignia’s technology, with features like its Front Camera System that can recognise road signs, and its latest adaptive headlights, with nine settings. They also thought that the car looked ‘…neat and stylish from all angles’.

Top Gear’s UK edition has a circulation of around 200,000 per month – the largest in its sector – it currently has a further 21 overseas titles and global circulation of over one million. TopGear.com generates 14 million page impressions per month making it one of the leading automotive websites.