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MEXICO - Kia already smashes it's market share for the entire year last year in the first four months of 2016.

June 15, 2016, 1:06 am
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  • Kia reaches 3.1 per cent market share in Mexico with year to date sales of 18,280
  • Korean automaker aims to reach five per cent market share by 2020
  • Majority of cars are built locally at new Kia plant in Nuevo Leòn, Mexico
Kia Motors Mexico has captured 3.1 per cent of the domestic automotive market according to figures released by the Mexican Automobile Dealer Association (AMDA) and the Mexican Automotive Industry Association (AMIA), thereby exceeding its 2016 year-end market share target of 3.0 per cent in just five months.
This achievement comes only 11 months after the first Kia dealership in Mexico opened its doors and seven months since the state-of-the-art Mexico plant opened in Nuevo Leòn
  • Kia reaches 3.1 per cent market share in Mexico with year to date sales of 18,280
  • Korean automaker aims to reach five per cent market share by 2020
  • Majority of cars are built locally at new Kia plant in Nuevo Leòn, Mexico
Kia Motors Mexico has captured 3.1 per cent of the domestic automotive market according to figures released by the Mexican Automobile Dealer Association (AMDA) and the Mexican Automotive Industry Association (AMIA), thereby exceeding its 2016 year-end market share target of 3.0 per cent in just five months.

This achievement comes only 11 months after the first Kia dealership in Mexico opened its doors and seven months since the state-of-the-art Mexico plant opened in Nuevo Leòn, which produces up to 300,000 cars a year – 20 percent of which are for the local market.
According to the report released by both associations, Kia Motors Mexico is the ninth best-selling auto brand in Mexico, registering a total of 18,280 units sold from January to May 2016.
“I am extremely proud of the hard working staff of Kia Motors Mexico and our national dealer network who have enabled us to surpass our 2016 market share goal more than six months ahead of the original target date. We will continue to build on the current momentum as we aim for 45,000 units in 2016 annual sales and 5 per cent market share by 2020," said Horacio Chávez, Managing Director of Kia Motors Mexico.
In May 2016, Kia Motors Mexico reported total sales of 4,610 vehicles for an increase 14.3 per cent compared to the prior month of April. Kia’s best-selling model in May was the Sportage CUV (1,552 units), followed by the subcompact Rio (1,282 units) and Forte (603 units).
Kia Motors Mexico will open a total of 22 new dealer outlets in 2016, bringing the total dealer count to 70 and giving the brand a sales presence that covers 94 per cent of the national territory., which produces up to 300,000 cars a year – 20 percent of which are for the local market.
According to the report released by both associations, Kia Motors Mexico is the ninth best-selling auto brand in Mexico, registering a total of 18,280 units sold from January to May 2016.
“I am extremely proud of the hard working staff of Kia Motors Mexico and our national dealer network who have enabled us to surpass our 2016 market share goal more than six months ahead of the original target date. We will continue to build on the current momentum as we aim for 45,000 units in 2016 annual sales and 5 per cent market share by 2020," said Horacio Chávez, Managing Director of Kia Motors Mexico.
In May 2016, Kia Motors Mexico reported total sales of 4,610 vehicles for an increase 14.3 per cent compared to the prior month of April. Kia’s best-selling model in May was the Sportage CUV (1,552 units), followed by the subcompact Rio (1,282 units) and Forte (603 units).
Kia Motors Mexico will open a total of 22 new dealer outlets in 2016, bringing the total dealer count to 70 and giving the brand a sales presence that covers 94 per cent of the national territory.
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Pricing and specification has been announced for the All-New MG GS - The new SUV thats well kitted out & Priced.

June 15, 2016, 1:08 am
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The wait is over. Today, MG Motor UK’s all-new SUV, the MG GS, was officially launched and the lid has been lifted on what a fantastic package this new vehicle is offering.
MG is proud to announce that, like the other models in the range, the MG GS is no exception to being affordable; with the line-up starting from only £14,995 and finishing at £19,495 for the manual transmission and £20,995 for the DCT (dual-clutch transmission).
The good news keeps coming, with the MG GS benefiting from a full five year factory warranty as standard; which shows the confidence the manufacturer has in the quality of this new model.

The MG GS holds its own against others in its sector in a number of areas, including CO2 output, torque, mass efficiency and towing weight. The MG GS has:
  • more torque than its two wheel drive gasoline competitors with 250Nm
  • more power than competitor two wheel drive gasoline variants, with 122kw available
  • a competitive CO2 value of 139g/km for the manual and 141g/km for the DCT
  • a competitive towing mass of 1750kg, making it suitable for towing a large family caravan
  • a competitive 0 – 60mph time of 9.6 seconds
The MG GS, which has been designed and engineered in Longbridge, Birmingham, has been developed to make it drive and handle like an MG should. The chassis has been tuned to deliver agility and great handling, making the driver feel confident when they take on the most challenging of roads.
The MG GS is available in three trim levels, with an option of manual or DCT on the top specification. Introducing the:
MG GS Explore:
This entry level model certainly isn’t short on specification. The price tag of £14,995 doesn’t mean the customer will lose out on life’s little luxuries, such as cruise control, automatic headlamps and air conditioning. This car is extremely affordable, whilst still being equipped to tackle everyday adventures.
MG GS Excite:
The ‘Excite’ should do just that, particularly when customers get even more toys for their money. As well as what the ‘Explore’ offers, this trim level has DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and rear parking sensors. All of that for £17,495? We said it would excite!
MG GS Exclusive:
Step up to the top of the range and the best of the specification. The ‘Exclusive’ is available with a choice of transmissions; 6-speed manual or MG’s first 7-speed DCT gearbox. Leather sports seats, that are electrically adjustable, and an iGO navigation system are great additions that allow the driver to relax and enjoy stress-free-driving. The manual is available at £19,495 and the DCT at £20,995.
Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing for MG, said: “This is a great day for us, as we can finally share the information so many people have wanted to know. The MG GS is competitive in many ways and we are confident it will do well in the SUV market.
“This car offers so much for comparatively little, making it the SUV to choose. The specification on these cars is phenomenal and when you add in the five year warranty it’s a no-brainer. There are some really great features as well, such as the adjustable rear seats that not only recline but fold completely flat making it adaptable for whatever the customer’s lifestyle.
“Customers choosing the MG GS will save money over more expensive SUVs. They will have all the specification they could want and still have money left to enjoy holidays or family days out.”
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USA - The new generation Polestar Performance Optimisation has been released for the XC90 T8 Twin Engine

June 15, 2016, 1:23 am
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The new generation Polestar Performance Optimisation has just been released for the Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine, making the world’s most powerful and cleanest SUV even faster and more inspiring to drive.
The Polestar optimisation increases the performance to 421 hp and 680 Nm* and 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds, all this with unchanged, class-leading consumption of 2.1 l/100 km and 43 km of pure electric range.

The new generation Polestar optimisation does not only optimise the engine performance, but rather the entire drivetrain in five key areas. By improving throttle response, gearshift hold, speed and precision, as well as overall engine performance, the XC90 T8 reaches a new level of driving pleasure.
”Just a week after the introduction of the S90 and V90 optimisation, we move forward by launching our optimisation for the exciting and technically advanced XC90 T8 Twin Engine. This gives customers who want a new level of driving pleasure with their XC90 an easily accessible and attractive performance increase,” said Niels Möller, Chief Operating Officer of Polestar.
One of the main features of the new optimisation is the gear hold function that holds the selected gear during cornering at high lateral g-forces. This prevents unwanted gearshifts mid-corner that can unsettle the balance of the car, providing the driver with improved response and control during active driving.
Reigning four-time Scandinavian Touring Car Championship (STCC) champion and Polestar Cyan Racing driver Thed Björk has been part of the optimisation development.
”It is amazing for me as a racing and development driver to be able to work with the same kind of technology and philosophy for the XC90 as with my S60 race car. While an SUV like the XC90 might be far from what we usually work with, the core of the optimisation is the very same thing. It is about creating driving pleasure and usable performance, something I definitely think we have achieved,” said Thed Björk, who drives a Volvo S60 Polestar TC1 with Drive-E technology in the 2016 FIA World Touring Car Championship.
The Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine is available for the new generation Polestar Performance Optimisation from today**.
All changes as part of the Polestar Performance Optimisation are made with certified emissions, fuel consumption, service intervals and Volvo warranties unchanged.
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USA - Volkswagen continues to invest in new distribution and training centre's in the USA.

June 15, 2016, 1:37 am
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  • -Opening of new $6.8M Parts Distribution Center in Rocklin-
  • -$4.5M investment in new Southern California Training Center-

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VWGoA) today announced the grand opening of its new $6.8 million Pacific Northwest Parts Distribution Center (PDC) in Rocklin, Calif. 
The company also confirmed that it will invest an estimated $4.5 million to open a new training center in Eastvale, Calif., just outside of Los Angeles. 
These facilities, which represent an estimated $11.3 million investment, are part of the company’s long-term commitment to the U.S. market and a broader strategy to invest more than $7 billion in North America through 2019.

“The new parts distribution center and upcoming training center in California is a testament to Volkswagen Group of America’s continued investment and commitment to the U.S market, our customers, and dealers,” said Hinrich J. Woebcken, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. 
“The company remains focused on these types of strategic investments that will enable long-term growth in the United States.”
Pacific Northwest Parts and Distribution Center

The newly expanded facility in Rocklin completes a U.S. network of seven Volkswagen Group parts distribution facilities across the United States. 

The 143,000 square-foot facility holds 40,000 automotive service part numbers and approximately $13 million in inventory, with distribution to 94 Volkswagen and Audi dealers across six states in the Pacific Northwest and Northern California.

“The new Rocklin facility plays a vital role in our commitment to providing quality service to our customers and dealer network in Northern California and the Pacific Northwest,” said Jan Bures, Executive Vice President Group After Sales and Services, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. 
“We are especially excited to increase our presence in California, a priority market for both Volkswagen and Audi brands.”
VWGoA took possession of the building in June 2015 and began shipping parts to dealers in April 2016, the facility is now fully operational. 
This seventh VWGoA PDC in the United States will enable improved efficiency in Volkswagen and Audi service parts deliveries and employ 30-plus people. This is the second VWGoA PDC in California, with another 310,000 square-foot facility in Los Angeles.
Eastvale Training Center

Volkswagen Group of America also announced today that it will invest an estimated $4.5 million to create a state-of-the-art training facility at the Goodman Commerce Center in Eastvale. 

The new Center will house Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche training facilities for the purposes of technical, collision repair and sales training. This is the first training facility to support all three brands and is expected to open in the first quarter of 2017.

Volkswagen Group has committed more than $7 billion in North America between 2015 and 2019. These new additions to Volkswagen Group’s California presence are among seven locations where the company operates in the state. 
Other sites include the Volkswagen Group of America Electronic Research Laboratory in Silicon Valley, a regional sales operations office in Woodland Hills, and the Test Center California in Oxnard.
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The 2017 Chrysler underwent 3.4 million real world driving miles to iron out any possible issues.

June 15, 2016, 1:51 am
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  • All-new minivan underwent more than 3.4 million miles of testing
  • Pacifica has been driven to the moon and back (7 times, to be exact)
  • Endured weeks of extreme-weather testing conducted in Arizona, Nevada and Alaska
  • Corrosion evaluations simulated a decade in the world’s worst climates for vehicle rust
With an unsurpassed level of attention to detail and quality, the all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica is poised to deliver segment-leading durability and reliability as it arrives in dealer showrooms this spring.

Thousands of simulated and laboratory tests conducted on Pacifica set the foundation for the regimented reliability, capability and durability testing that continues at FCA US LLC’s proving grounds around the world.

More Than 3.4 Million Miles … and Counting

Reliability is synonymous with quality and it’s something customers expect from their vehicles. Knowing that, the development team literally went the extra mile to ensure the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica does not disappoint.



With more than 3.4 million real-world miles driven, Pacifica has gone to the moon and back – seven times, to be exact. This distance represents one of the highest pre-production mileage totals of any Chrysler brand vehicle ever.

“The main objective of putting Pacifica through more than 3.4 million miles of real-world driving is to identify and prevent any issues from occurring in the first place,” said Scott Garberding, Head of Quality, FCA - Global. 

“This commitment to quality is just one piece of a comprehensive strategy that focuses on attention to detail, as it represents one of the final steps in a quality process that began with the inception of Pacifica.”

Traversing “The Grand Canyon State”

Extreme-weather testing is a crucial step in vehicle validation and Pacifica was up for the challenge. FCA tested Pacifica day and night, on all kinds of road surfaces, at high and low altitudes and through blizzard conditions, as well as in dry, desert heat.

During numerous 4,000-mile-plus roundtrip drives from Auburn Hills, Mich., to FCA’s Arizona Proving Ground (APG) in Yucca, Ariz., Pacifica was put through the wringer in numerous tests that saw the all-new minivan withstand scorching heat up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the arid, dusty desert climate.

Knowing that many customers are focused on local driving, the minivan team took Pacifica to the busy downtowns of Las Vegas and Los Angeles for hours of slow, grueling city traffic in heat up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pacifica also ventured to Arizona’s Davis Dam for a grueling durability evaluation that’s usually reserved for payload testing of light and heavy-duty pickup trucks.

The notorious Davis Dam grade sits on Highway 68, a punishing hill climb from the Colorado River at its base to a rocky summit nearly 11 miles up. From start to finish, it's an almost 3,000-foot elevation gain, providing Pacifica engineers with one of the steepest continuous incline roads in the U.S. 

With its award-winning Pentastar V-6 gasoline engine under the hood, Pacifica successfully traversed the Davis Dam route with the air conditioning on full blast while towing a 3,600 lb. trailer behind it.

Exploring “The Last Frontier”

In addition to hot weather testing in Yucca, each FCA vehicle goes through extensive cold weather evaluations at the Company’s 740-acre winter test track in Houghton, Mich., located in the state’s Upper Peninsula.

Pacifica received special attention when it came to cold weather evaluations as the minivan was brought to Fort Greely, Alaska, for three weeks of testing in frigid climates that reached temperatures of minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below.

In Alaska, the minivan’s quality was put to the test on snow and ice to evaluate a number of critical systems, including traction control, anti-lock brakes, air-induction system, electronic stability control (ESC), driver-assist systems, cold-weather durability and engine cold start.

“The trip allowed our Pacifica engineers an opportunity to refine the minivan for customers as several ESC calibration adjustments were made to improve system smoothness and reduce noise, vibration and harshness,” said Garberding. “ESC enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. 

The technology provides driver benefits in critical driving situations, such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions, including snow, ice or gravel.”

Outrunning Rust

Owners can be confident their minivans will outlast almost anything nature throws at them. Through months of accelerated testing, Pacifica withstood a rigorous corrosion evaluation, the equivalent of which is enduring a decade in the worst corrosion climate in the world – an environment that produces significant snow, humidity and salt mist coming off the ocean.

Pacifica also endured corrosion tests on dozens of durability drives and with direct salt applications. To ensure thorough coverage, Pacifica was locked in chambers where salt was sprayed all over the vehicle body and engineers ran the minivan again and again through a salt splash trough. 

The trough exposed Pacifica’s undercarriage to high concentrations of salt, which are normally present on roadways, typically from de-icing salts.

Stretching Out

Quality does not stop with the driver experience, especially in a vehicle like Pacifica, which can seat up to eight people. With the all-new, one-of-a-kind Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system featuring two high-definition 10-inch touchscreens, Pacifica transforms the passenger experience.

While thorough driver-focused testing was conducted during more than 3.4 million miles driven, additional tests were conducted by passengers seated in the second and third rows. Everything from the built-in apps and games on the Uconnect 

Theater to the seat comfort and ride quality were thoroughly exercised. Technicians worked through an extensive checklist to validate the functionality and reliability of the Uconnect system, as well as how compatible it is with a wide variety of mobile phones, music players and other media devices.

The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica is available in five models and the Pacifica Hybrid in two models. The Chrysler Pacifica is now available in dealer showrooms, with the Pacifica Hybrid arriving in the second half of 2016.
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MEXICO - Volkswagen tests the line in Puebla, Mexico, to ensure perfect build quality of the LWB Tiguan SUV.

June 15, 2016, 2:04 am
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  • The first test body was built to check the calibration of the body shop equipment and the processes involved

Volkswagen de México has reached an early production milestone with the assembly of the first test body-in-white for the upcoming Tiguan Long Wheel Base, LWB, scheduled to begin its production during the first quarter of 2017.

After the construction of the new building for the body shop was concluded at the end of 2015, equipment and machinery installation is now nearing completion. The first test body was built in June to check the calibration of body shop equipment and processes.
The new body shop facility has an extension of 70,800 square meters. . So far, nearly 700 containers with more than 50,000 tons of equipment have arrived at the Puebla plant to be installed in the new building. 
The core of the highly automated production process are 800 Fanuc welding robots. Training programs for the personnel responsible for the programming of the robots and the automation controls are ongoing.
The first test body of Tiguan LWB was presented to the group of executives and workers that were part of this milestone.
Volkswagen de México will produce the Tiguan LWB, starting early 2017, for the worldwide markets, with exception of China.
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The Cadillac CT6 features industry-leading technology, including the available rear seat infotainment system.

June 15, 2016, 2:14 am
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  • BUILT-IN WI-FI HOTSPOT AND HDMI INPUTS ALLOW FOR EFFORTLESS VIDEO STREAMING

The 2016 Cadillac CT6 features an indulgent interior and industry-leading technology, including the available rear seat infotainment system that further elevates the back seat experience
Headlining the advanced capability of the CT6’s rear seat infotainment system are the HDMI and USB ports located on the front of the rear center seat or in the rear seat center armrest. 
By utilizing these ports in combination with the vehicle’s built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi network, owners can use devices such as Google Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV Stick or Apple TV to stream internet content directly (such as Netflix, Hulu or YouTube) to the rear seat screens. 

The ports can also be used to mirror device displays via the HDMI port or to play media stored locally on a drive.
The rear seat infotainment system includes two independent, articulating 10-inch-diagonal HD screens. The screens have been designed to seamlessly integrate into the CT6’s cabin and retract into the front seat backs when not in use. 
The screens tilt to make viewing easier and will remember that position until set to a new one. Passengers can play Blu-ray DVDs, view media information, see what is on the front CUE screen and adjust the rear massage function. (Rear seat massage on Platinum models only.)
The rear seat infotainment system is standard on the 2016 Cadillac CT6 Platinum trim; it is available as part of the Rear Seat Package on CT6 Luxury and Premium Luxury models.
All Cadillac models, including the CT6, come standard with OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi hotspot that can connect to up to seven devices. 
OnStar 4G LTE provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected. The hotspot is on whenever the vehicle is on and comes with a three-month/three-gigabyte data trial. 
4G LTE is the most current and fastest mobile data network — 10 times faster than 3G. And OnStar 4G LTE offers stronger, broader coverage than smartphones on the same network.
For front seat passengers, the 10.2-inch CUE screen can be used to play media from USBs or Blu-ray DVDs when the vehicle is in Park. Cadillac CUE also provides owners a smart and simple way to access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. 
A “Projection” icon will appear on the CUE screen to enable simpler, easier access to key smartphone functions, including navigation, contacts, hands-free text messaging and select applications supported by Apple or Google.
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Every new Nissan crossover is subject to the ‘dishwasher test’ during development, 24,000 litres of high pressure water.

June 15, 2016, 2:21 am
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  • Every new Nissan crossover is subject to the ‘dishwasher test’ during development
  • 24,000 litres of water sprayed at each Qashqai, Juke and X-Trail – with every drop recycled
  • Additional high-pressure jet washer test ensures no moisture gets in
You wouldn’t put your car in a dishwasher, but that’s exactly what Nissan does with every new model it launches. Of course, you can’t fit an actual Qashqai crossover in a kitchen appliance… which is why Nissan’s European Technical Centre has a scaled-up version that can house a full-sized vehicle.
Thousands of litres of water are sprayed at the exterior of a car from every angle, and the process is accompanied by a fingertip inspection to ensure the highest quality in waterproof sealing. Also known as the monsoon test for obvious reasons, it takes place several times during the engineering development of all cars and vans, right across Nissan’s wide range.

Initially, 24,000 litres of water rain on to the car. During the most dramatic part, more than 1,000 litres land in just 15 minutes – equivalent to a metre of rainfall.
Engineers at Nissan’s state-of-the-art facility – at Cranfield, UK – could easily have created this test to be fully automated. But the rigorous nature of the development program, as well as the world’s weather, means that’s simply not demanding enough. The process requires Nissan technicians to attack the vehicle’s seals with a jet washer, specially engineered to operate at pressures as extreme as 150 bar. That’s considerably more powerful than many popular domestic units, which operate at 110 bar.
Carl Sandy is one of the Nissan engineers who have helped develop the punishing test standards. He explained: “Another member of the team will be in the car with a high-definition endoscope to see inside the panels, looking for even the tiniest drop of water that may have made it through.” Such is the attention to detail that Carl’s team will even strip out the whole interior to confirm that there is no water coming in.
During the whole program – the monsoon test and jet-wash – up to 30,000 litres of water are used. That’s equivalent to more than 2,000 times the amount used in an average domestic dishwasher cycle.
Such frivolous use of water may seem wasteful, but crucially not a single drop goes down the drain. It’s filtered back into a giant tank, ready to drench the next car that comes through the chamber. Recycling the water is just as important as keeping customers dry.
Nissan’s test standards are sufficient for the relatively modest climate and roads of Western Europe, but are also robust enough for more extreme environments.
Carl added: “Rigorous testing is important because not every market is the same. For example, in Russia, commercial jet washers run at a higher pressure to cope with road dirt. Through continuous evolution of test standards, we make sure that our cars stand up to the most demanding driving requirements in Europe. 
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SEAT reveals the secret of numbers in designing and producing a new car.

June 15, 2016, 2:36 am
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A step by step look at the design process
  • Pencil and paper - this is always how the creation process of a new model begins
  • The process combines technology and traditional methods highlighted by the designer's initial sketches and shaping the vehicle with clay
1,400 days, more than 1,000 sketches, 5,000 kilos of clay and 1,000 litres of paint. These are just some of the figures that go into designing a new model of car. 
This is a four-year process that begins with the handiwork of an artisan, using pencil and paper, and ends with a finished vehicle on the assembly line. Along the way, life-size clay vehicles are made, new colours and textures are created and the interior of the new car is defined. 


  1. Briefing. To begin with, the guidelines of the new model are drafted and approved. They form the roadmap that will define the car’s DNA, so the entire process must follow these indications. 
  2. Sketches. The designers can now start producing preliminary sketches of the new car. Early versions reflect “what we would like it to look like”, says Jaume Sala, head of Interior Design at SEAT, ending up with an image of the new vehicle that is “picture perfect”. Over the course of four years they produce over 1,000 sketches. 
  3. Generating the computer-assisted design. Once the sketches are made, they are recreated digitally to give volume to the future vehicle. Not only does the document serve for the design of the new car, it is also used for its technical monitoring. 
  4. Clay model. This life-size model weighs four tonnes, twice that of a conventional car. It serves to physically recreate the exterior design, and it is constantly shaped to accommodate modifications. This process also involves the handiwork of a master craftsman who smoothes and shapes the model by hand.  
  5. Frozen model. This is the definitive exterior design that is approved by the company. It looks completely real, even though it is still a clay model. Up to 5,000 kilos of clay can be used throughout the entire process until it is frozen.
  6. Creating colours. The Colour&Trim department is in charge of creating the colours used on the interior and exterior of the new model. Their work begins two years in advance by gathering ideas that stem from new developments in “the areas of fashion, architecture or product design”, explains Jordi Font, who is responsible for this department at SEAT. Even though they carry out 100 formulations and use 1,000 litres of paint, ultimately only 12 tones will make it to the colour chart for the exterior of the car.
  7. Seats. Aspects concerning “comfort and good looks” are carefully considered when developing the car seat, assures Jaume Sala. The Color&Trim department is also involved in this part of the process; they use a sewing machine to prepare patterns “that combine the most suitable fabrics and colours”, says Jordi Font. 
  8. Interior design. “Everything is driver-oriented”, stresses Sala, who also explains that the protagonism of the touchscreen is such that first they decide where to place it and all the rest is secondary. The design of the interior is especially governed by functionality. “We ask ourselves where it would be most convenient to store a mobile phone, glasses or a bottle of water”. For this reason, he concludes, the design has to be “useful and efficient”.  
The end result of all these simultaneous processes is a brand new model. After four years of intense work, the design team is still going strong as a new project is already in the pipeline.
SEAT is the only company that designs, develops, manufactures and markets cars in Spain. A member of the Volkswagen Group, the multinational has its headquarters in Martorell (Barcelona), exporting more than 80% of its vehicles, and is present in over 75 countries. In 2015, SEAT' turnover amounted to over 8.3 billion euros, the highest in its history, and the company achieved worldwide sales of more than 400,000 units for the first time since 2007.
SEAT Group employs more than 14,000 professionals at its three production centres – Barcelona, El Prat de Llobregat and Martorell, where it manufactures the highly successful Ibiza and Leon. Additionally, the company produces the Ateca and the Toledo in the Czech Republic, the Alhambra in Portugal and the Mii in Slovakia.
The multinational has a Technical Centre, which operates as a knowledge hub that brings together 1,000 engineers who are focussed on developing innovation for Spain’s largest industrial investor in R&D. SEAT already features the latest connectivity technology in its vehicle range and is currently engaged in the company's global digitisation to promote the mobility of the future.
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The British designed and built Zenos E10 R will be one of the stars of this years Goodwood Festival of Speed.

June 16, 2016, 12:33 am
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The British designed and built Zenos E10 R will be one of the stars of the ‘Race Cars for the Road’ category at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed (June 23-26).
The £39,995 E10 R is the pinnacle of the niche British manufacturer’s range and, with 500bhp per tonne and a 0-60mph time of three seconds, is the fastest car Zenos has ever built.

It will have two runs a day up Goodwood’s famous 1.16-mile hillclimb course through the main three-day Festival of Speed, including a timed run on Saturday.
Driving duties in the turbocharged, 2.3-litre Zenos E10 R will fall to a pair of experienced racing drivers: former World Karting Championship contender Laura Tillett and E10 R owner Antony Sidney-Woollett.
The ‘Race Cars for the Road’ class has been introduced by Goodwood to showcase some of the fastest and most exotic track-inspired sportscars in the UK, fitting in with the 2016 Festival of Speed’s overall theme of ‘Full Throttle – The Endless Pursuit of Power’.
Also appearing in the ‘Race Cars for the Road’ category will be the similarly lightweight, performance-focused Caterham 620R, the fearsome Ariel Atom 3.5 R and the Mexican Vuhl 05 RR.
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Auto Express has announced the nominations for it's awards ceremony, 21 categories covering all motoring segments.

June 16, 2016, 12:35 am
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  • 21 categories spanning all areas of the new car market
  • Winners to be announced on 5th July
Auto Express has revealed the shortlisted cars that will be battling for 21 Awards at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2016. The Awards recognise the finest and most innovative models currently on sale, across the 21 categories that in-market car buyers are searching in.

From the five contenders in each category, three will be commended on the night with one going on to win the category trophy. And from all the category winners, one model will be crowned Auto Express Car of the Year 2016.
The winners will be announced at the Auto Express New Car Awards on 5th July at the Grand Connaught Rooms in London’s West End. 
The full shortlist is as follows:
BEST CITY CAR
Hyundai i10
Renault Twingo
Skoda Citigo
Toyota Aygo
Vauxhall Viva

BEST SUPERMINI
Ford Fiesta
Mazda 2
Skoda Fabia
Suzuki Baleno
Volkswagen Polo

BEST PREMIUM SMALL CAR
Audi A1
DS 3
Fiat 500
MINI
Vauxhall Adam

BEST COMPACT FAMILY CAR
Mazda 3
MINI Clubman
SEAT Leon
Skoda Octavia
Vauxhall Astra

BEST CROSSOVER
Citroen C4 Cactus
Hyundai Tucson
Nissan Qashqai
Renault Kadjar
SEAT Ateca

BEST FAMILY CAR
Kia Optima
Mazda 6
Skoda Superb
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen Passat

BEST ESTATE CAR
Honda Civic Tourer
Peugeot 308 SW
SEAT Leon ST
Skoda Superb Estate
Volkswagen Passat Estate

BEST COMPACT EXECUTIVE CAR
Audi A4
BMW 3 Series
Jaguar XE
Lexus IS
Mercedes C-Class

BEST EXECUTIVE CAR
Audi A6
Mercedes E-Class
Jaguar XF
Tesla Model S
Volvo S90

BEST LUXURY CAR
Bentley Mulsanne
BMW 7 Series
Mercedes S-Class
Range Rover
Rolls-Royce Ghost

BEST HOT HATCH
Ford Focus RS
Ford Fiesta ST
Honda Civic Type R
Peugeot 308 GTi
SEAT Leon Cupra 290

BEST CONVERTIBLE
Audi A3 Cabriolet
BMW 2 Series Convertible
Ford Mustang Convertible
MINI Convertible
Porsche 911 Cabriolet

BEST MPV
Citroen Grand C4 Picasso
Ford S-MAX
Kia Carens
SEAT Alhambra
Vauxhall Zafira Tourer

BEST COMPACT SUV
Dacia Duster
Jaguar F-Pace
Land Rover Discovery Sport
Mercedes GLC
Mitsubishi Outlander

BEST LARGE SUV
Audi Q7
Kia Sorento
Lexus RX
Range Rover Sport
Volvo XC90

BEST COUPE
Audi TT
Ford Mustang
Jaguar F-Type
Lexus RC
Porsche 911

BEST ROADSTER
Audi TT
Jaguar F-Type
Mazda MX-5
Mercedes SLC
Porsche 718 Boxster

BEST PICK-UP
Ford Ranger
Mitsubishi L200
Nissan NP300 Navara
Toyota Hilux
Volkswagen Amarok

PERFORMANCE CAR OF THE YEAR
Audi R8
BMW M2
Ferrari 488 GTB
McLaren 570S
Porsche 911 GT3 RS

GREEN AWARD
BMW I3
Kia Niro
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Nissan Leaf
Toyota Prius

VAN OF THE YEAR


Fiat Doblo Cargo
Ford Transit
Ford Transit Custom
Volkswagen Caddy
Volkswagen Transporter
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Rolls Royce to supply a fleet of cars at the Hurlingham Classic Tennis Tournament, to ferry the players around.

June 16, 2016, 12:38 am
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  • Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London will play a key role at the Tennis Classic at Hurlingham in London, taking place 21-24 June
  • Players at the prestigious tournament will be chauffeured around in a selection of Rolls-Royce models
  • There will be two Rolls-Royce Dawns on display in the grounds of the exclusive Hurlingham Club, while players will ride in the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Ghost
  • Players taking part in the tournament include global stars such as David Ferrer, Marin Cilic, Richard Gasquet, Kei Nishikori and more
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London is taking a central role at the upcoming Tennis Classic at Hurlingham, and will be chauffeuring some of the world’s most famous tennis players around during the tournament.
Former US Open Champion Marin Cilic and Roland Garros finalist David Ferrer will both be taking part in the grass-court event, which is one of the most quintessentially British of tournaments and takes place in one of the most exclusive and prestigious locations in London.

The players will be chauffeured around the tournament and the local area in another timeless British icon, as H.R. Owen is providing a fleet of Rolls-Royce Ghost and Rolls-Royce Phantoms to help the players get to the club and around London.
The H.R. Owen dealership will also provide two Rolls-Royce Dawns to go on display in the club that has been described as a hidden gem of South London. The all-new convertible Dawn will add an extra level of beauty to the stunning grounds of the Hurlingham Club during the four-day tournament.
Other players that will be taking part in the Tennis Classic at Hurlingham include famous names such as Kei Nishikori, Milos Raonic, Tomáš Berdych, Richard Gasquet and Feliciano Lopez. They will play a series of exhibition matches that will serve as the perfect warm up to Wimbledon, which begins the following week. Being driven in the Rolls-Royce Ghost and Phantom will allow them to focus on what really matters – preparing for the matches ahead.
H.R. Owen’s Rolls-Royce brand director Claus Andersen said: “The Tennis Classic at Hurlingham is a timelessly elegant English event on the tennis calendar, and is a perfect fit for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London. The event allows the players to prepare for Wimbledon, and we are delighted to be able to help with their preparation by providing a fleet of Rolls-Royce cars to help them get around in a relaxing and luxurious manner to let them concentrate on their game.”
The Tennis Classic at Hurlingham is one of the most intimate events in the tennis calendar and takes place at The Hurlingham Club from 21-24 June, just a few miles from the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars showroom in Berkeley Square in Mayfair.
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JLR has completed the all new plant in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with Evoque & Discovery Sport the first products

June 16, 2016, 12:40 am
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  • Jaguar Land Rover opens first wholly-owned manufacturing plant outside of the UK
  • The new plant will build Range Rover Evoque and Discovery Sport – the most popular Jaguar Land Rover vehicles in Brazil
  • Plant includes pioneering Education Business Partnership Centre
  • First UK automotive facility in Latin America  
  • One in three premium SUV’s sold in Brazil is a Land Rover
Jaguar Land Rover today opened its new R$750m (£240m) manufacturing facility and Education Business Partnership Centre in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The plant inauguration represents the first time a UK automotive group has opened a production centre in Latin America.
Jaguar Land Rover’s new factory in Itatiaia is also the company’s first wholly-owned overseas facility and marks a further phase in its global expansion strategy following the opening of its Chinese joint venture factory in 2014. 

The creation of new international factories allows Jaguar Land Rover to offer its customers even more exciting new models, protect against currency fluctuations and create a globally competitive business.
The new facility will build both the Range Rover Evoque and Land Rover Discovery Sport for Brazilian customers. Vehicles will be on sale in dealers across Brazil this month.
At the plant inauguration, Wolfgang Stadler, Executive Director, Manufacturing, said: “The opening of Jaguar Land Rover’s new world-class facility in Brazil marks the latest exciting milestone in our global expansion.”
“Land Rover is already Brazil’s market-leader for mid-sized premium SUVs, accounting for more than 30% of all sales in that segment. The Range Rover Evoque and the Land Rover Discovery Sport will now be manufactured for the first time in Latin America, building on their existing popularity with customers in Brazil.”
The plant includes Jaguar Land Rover’s first overseas Education Business Partnership Centre which will provide a range of classroom activities for up to 12,000 local children each year. These will help them to develop key skills, work awareness and inspire them to pursue rewarding careers at Jaguar Land Rover.
Wolfgang Stadler added: “We are proud of the strong links that we have established with the communities close to our existing plants and the same is true here in Brazil. Our Education Business Partnership Centre is just one step we are taking to deliver exciting educational programmes to local children of all ages. Our ambition is to encourage them to consider a career in the automotive industry in the future.”
Manufacturing in Brazil
The fully flexible plant has been designed to support the company’s future plans and represents Jaguar Land Rover’s long-term commitment to the Brazilian market.
The factory includes a series of environmental features, such as rainwater collection and the planting of more than 1,200 indigenous trees to help preserve and improve the natural habitat around the factory. Jaguar Land Rover is aiming to achieve the globally recognised LEED Gold sustainability accreditation - the first automotive vehicle assembly plant in Brazil to do so.
The plant includes cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and has the most advanced Emissions Conformity and Certification facility in South America.
As part of its on-going commitment to the Brazilian automotive industry, Jaguar Land Rover has sourced major components such as the seats, cockpit, exhaust, chassis and powertrain assembly from local suppliers including Benteler and IAC. In addition, Jaguar Land Rover has invested in its technical assistance services to help suppliers support increased levels of localisation in the future.
Jaguar Land Rover in Brazil
Jaguar Land Rover has had a presence in the Brazilian market for more than 25 years. In the first five months of 2016, it saw sales increase by 11% in Brazil. Land Rover is the leading premium SUV brand in Brazil and Jaguar is one of the country’s fastest growing premium brands with sales increasing by 70% in the first five months of 2016.
Brazil is one of Jaguar Land Rover’s top 15 markets and the Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Sport and Land Rover Discovery are the strongest selling vehicles in the country. Jaguar Land Rover has 35 dealers covering all the main territories of Brazil. 
Working with local communities
As part of its commitment to create new opportunities for 12 million people by 2020, Jaguar Land Rover works closely with the communities close to its manufacturing facilities around the world. Over the past 18 months, Jaguar Land Rover has forged strong links with the local neighbourhoods in Itatiaia and nearby Resende creating new programmes to inspire the next generation of automotive engineers.
The new Education Business Partnership Centre is operated in conjunction with SENAI, the Brazilian national training provider, and will offer education programmes for children aged 5 to 18. The courses are focussed on engineering, manufacturing and automotive business-related activities.
Jaguar Land Rover launched its ‘Inspiring Tomorrow’s Workforce’ training programme in Itatiaia in 2015. More than 100 people have completed the scheme: 12 are working at the Jaguar Land Rover plant in Itatiaia and many others are employed elsewhere within the automotive industry.
Débora Esteves completed the programme last year and is now a product coach at the new plant. She said, “I thoroughly enjoyed the programme and it gave me the opportunity to learn many new skills. I believe that without ‘Inspiring Tomorrow’s Workforce’, I would not be working at Jaguar Land Rover today.”
The programme offers work experience, training and employability qualifications for people who are unemployed to prepare them for roles in the automotive industry. It is the first programme of this nature that Jaguar Land Rover has deployed outside the UK.
Hundreds of local children have taken part in the ‘Music is the Winner’ and Try Rugby initiatives, supported by Jaguar Land Rover. Both are designed to encourage children to develop new skills and to create new opportunities for them.
Later this year, two schools from Brazil will compete in the global finals of the Land Rover 4x4 in Schools Technology Challenge. This is an innovative educational challenge that pulls together key science, technology, engineering and mathematics learning modules and engages students with engineering disciplines.
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MINI to have a world premiere and some special models at this years Goodwood Festival of Speed.

June 16, 2016, 12:42 am
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  • World premiere of MINI Seven, the first design model of current generation
  • Unveiling of brand new UK-only model, MINI John Cooper Works Challenge
  • The fastest production car exclusively built for UK market will go up the Hill climb along with the MINI Challenge Race Car
  • MINI ambassadors, Harry Hunt and Charlie Butler-Henderson available for interviews on MINI stand throughout the weekend
  • 3D virtual exhibit showcasing the MINI VISION NEXT 100 vehicle, developed to celebrate 100 Years of BMW Group
The world premiere of the first MINI design model of the current generation will take pride of place on the MINI stand at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.
MINI Seven, inspired by classic Mini heritage fused with modern design and technology, will be on display for the very first time from 23-26th June and will showcase specially designed exterior and interior looks unseen before on this generation’s model line-up.

Joining MINI Seven on the stand will be the new MINI John Cooper Works Challenge, developed exclusively by a specialised team of racing drivers at Plant Oxford for the UK market.
Based on the ultimate performance MINI, John Cooper Works Hatch, and inspired by the MINI Challenge Race car, the MINI John Cooper Works Challenge takes performance to a new level, while also offering a thrilling on-road driving experience without sacrificing everyday comforts and refinement.
As well as experiencing the latest production models, visitors to the MINI stand at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2016 will be able to interact with a 3D virtual exhibit showcasing the MINI VISION NEXT 100 vehicle.   Developed to celebrate 100 Years of BMW Group and show the brand's vision for mobility of the future, the MINI VISION NEXT 100 will be revealed at the Roundhouse, Camden, London on 16th June.
Elsewhere at the festival, Dakar driver, Harry Hunt will be on hand with the MINI ALL4 Racing car, which he drove to finish 10th in his debut Dakar race this year. MINI Challenge racing driver, Charlie Butler-Henderson will also be driving the new MINI John Cooper Works Challenge up the iconic Goodwood hill.
For those wishing to try their hand at racing themselves, the MINI stand also has its very own MINI Challenge Racing Experience. Budding amateur drivers can use the virtual driving experience to pit themselves against their friends driving the MINI Challenge race car.
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MINI UK announces John Cooper Works Challenge, specifically developed for maximum track ability and on-road driving thrills

June 16, 2016, 12:44 am
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MINI UK announces John Cooper Works Challenge, specifically developed for maximum track ability and on-road driving thrills
  • UK only model, limited production run, with each car numbered. Unique colour and specification combination
  • Inspired by the latest MINI Challenge racing car, with key technical features developed in partnership with the same suppliers involved with the race car
  • Adjustable suspension, high-grip Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, lightweight alloy wheels, limited slip differential, upgraded braking power, Genuine MINI JCW Pro Accessories
  • Based on the potent MINI John Cooper Works, featuring 231hp and a 153mph top speed
  • Premiere at Goodwood Festival of Speed, priced at £32,000 OTR
The new MINI Cooper John Cooper Works Challenge takes track-driving performance to a new level, while also offering a thrilling on-road driving experience that doesn’t sacrifice everyday comforts and refinement.
Based on the ultimate performance MINI, the latest John Cooper Works Hatch, the Challenge takes more than just inspiration from the current Challenge-specification racing car.
The small, passionate development team, based at MINI Plant Oxford in the UK, worked in partnership with key suppliers on the racing car to deliver the best solutions for a genuinely credible trackday machine. 


With its super-sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, adjustable suspension and limited slip differential, the MINI John Cooper Works Challenge takes bespoke track performance to levels never before seen in the small hot hatch class.
Limited to a maximum of 100 units, the exclusive MINI John Cooper Works Challenge features a unique colour combination and graphics, Genuine MINI JCW Pro Accessories, and is available in one fixed specification only.
A home-grown performance hero, designed and developed in the UK
The basis for the new John Cooper Works Challenge is the MINI John Cooper Works Hatch, manufactured, like other MINI vehicles, at MINI Plant Oxford. It’s there that a small group of MINI employees had a dream to create a MINI that was specifically designed and developed to excel on a racing circuit, while maintaining perfectly useable manners on the public road. They collected their ideas outside of work time, fuelled by the desire to create a car that truly unlocked the performance potential of the latest MINI Hatch on a racing circuit. Extensive testing was then carried out on a range of circuits throughout the UK, with considerable road mileage also accrued as the specification and settings of the car were fine-tuned.
MINI John Cooper Works Challenge came to life in ‘Building 71’, a non-descript unit at Plant Oxford that houses OX4 Racing, a racing team run exclusively by MINI employees. It can therefore be said that the new MINI John Cooper Works Challenge is truly a ‘works’ car for the track, in the finest tradition.
High performance starting point: the MINI John Cooper Works Hatch
The new MINI John Cooper Works Challenge uses the latest MINI John Cooper Works Hatch as its basis – itself the most potent MINI ever produced. Powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder engine featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo technology, model-specific design of the pistons, turbocharger and exhaust release 231hp and 320nm of torque. These prodigious outputs enable a 0-62mph time of just 6.3-seconds, with a top speed of 153mph. Nevertheless, when fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox (the only gearbox option available for John Cooper Works Challenge), John Cooper Works manages a remarkable 42.2mpg, with C02 emissions of just 155g/km.
MINI John Cooper Works Challenge is readily identifiable by its bespoke body addenda, including enlarged air intakes at the front for increased cooling, uniquely contoured wheel arch extensions and a rear spoiler. Inside, John Cooper Works sports seats and sports steering wheel create the perfect environment for driving enjoyment.
Bespoke tuning parts for the ultimate road and track performance
The standard MINI John Cooper Works is a formidable performance car on road and track, but the John Cooper Works Challenge’s small engineering team knew that it could be taken further still if on-track ability was prioritised to a greater degree. Realising that John Cooper Works Hatch’s exceptional, and moreover reliable and fully warrantied, power output was already ample, they concentrated their efforts in the areas of chassis, tyres and braking.
Many road cars are said to be ‘inspired by the world of motor racing’, but the link with John Cooper Works Challenge is a more genuine one than most: the engineers turned to Nitron for the suspension, Mintex for the braking requirements, Quaife for the traction benefits of a limited slip differential and Team Dynamics for particularly lightweight alloy wheels. All these brands supply the MINI John Cooper Works racing car that competes in the top class of the UK MINI Challenge.
Chassis: tuned on road and track
Not only were the team searching for ultimate track performance, but MINI John Cooper Works Challenge was also to be a car that rewarded enthusiast drivers on the public road, while maintaining everyday usability. To that end, it seemed imperative that John Cooper Works Challenge featured a suspension that could be adjusted by the driver to the environment in which the car was being driven.
UK-based suspension supplier Nitron has provided coilover spring and damper units based on its NTR R1 system. These are adjustable for bump and rebound, as well as for overall ride height. The R1 is a direct development of the racing dampers used on the John Cooper Works racing car, and is hand-built with many titanium and hard-anodised parts to the very highest quality standards. Camber adjustment plates on the front axle allow for an increase in negative camber, with John Cooper Works Challenge possessing two degrees of negative camber on both the front and rear axle. Thanks to both camber and castor being adjustable, the suspension geometry of the new car is significantly different to that of the standard car. MINI John Cooper Works Challenge is supplied with recommended settings for both road and track driving, the damper units offering adjustment through numerous ‘clicks’, but owners can choose to experiment with their own settings to tune the car precisely to their own tastes.
For superior traction when powering out of corners, John Cooper Works Challenge is fitted with a Quaife automatic torque biasing (ATB) limited slip differential in place of the standard car’s open item. This proven component, which uses helical gears instead of a plate-type LSD, offers a seamless operation without any abrupt ‘lock up’, and assists braking performance as well as transferring power away from a spinning front wheel during acceleration. The Quaife ATB differential works in combination with all standard fit electronic systems (DSC, Performance Control, etc).
Wheels and tyres: more grip, less weight
Few aspects of a car affect track performance more than tyres, and the John Cooper Works Challenge engineering team spent a lot of time during the development process testing different makes and compounds to find not only a tyre that gave the most grip on a circuit, but one that also worked well on the road.
The solution was the acclaimed Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, original equipment for a host of high-performance cars, and uniquely able to summon extremely high grip levels without causing any refinement issues.
MINI John Cooper Works Challenge retains the 17” wheel size of the standard John Cooper Works Hatch, but features 215/45 R17 tyres on a 7.5” wheel, 0.5” wider than the original specification rim that uses a 205/45 R17. The wheels are also specifically chosen for ultimate performance: the Team Dynamics Pro Race 1.2 rims save 1.5kg of unsprung mass per corner. Combined with the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, this weight advantage further increases to 2.5kg per corner.
Braking: greater reserves of retardation  
John Cooper Works Challenge employs grooved and part-drilled 330mm front discs with four-pot Brembo-developed calipers, sourced from the MINI JCW Pro Accessories range. These are paired with specially developed Mintex brake pads. This combination offers superb braking power with excellent resistance to fade on track. Even so, no compromise with on-road braking response has been required, even when used from cold.
John Cooper Works Accessories fitted as standard
The new John Cooper Works Challenge takes full advantage of the MINI JCW Pro Accessories already available for John Cooper Works Hatch.
The JCW Pro Aerokit, which features lower front splitters, rear spoiler add-ons for the already large roof spoiler, rear diffuser and rear splitters for additional aerodynamic performance, enhances the already distinctive, aggressive exterior styling. The carbon fibre air intake further complements enhances the look of this new model, as do the Carbon Fibre Mirror Covers.
A JCW Pro exhaust with carbon fibre tailpipe finishers not only maximises the flow of spent gases, but also gives John Cooper Works Challenge a purposeful roar. It can be controlled via a Bluetooth link, offering a choice of Sport and Track sound levels.
The grooved brake discs are also taken from the JCW Pro Accessories range, although the Mintex pads fitted to the Challenge are unique to this model.
Unique specification 
MINI John Cooper Works Challenge will be built in no more than 100 units, and is available with one fixed specification and exclusively with MINI’s acclaimed 6-speed manual gearbox.
Every John Cooper Works Challenge is painted in White Silver, can be readily identifiable by a bespoke graphics package, and has the 17” alloy wheels finished in black. Black roof and mirror caps complete this unique style.
Inside, the Dinamica/cloth interior combination is also finished in Carbon Black. The passenger side facia of each car bears its unique build number in the series, testament to the exclusivity of this unique model. The standard specification includes Piano Black interior trim, rear Park Distance Control, Rain Sensor with Auto headlight activation and Adaptive LED headlights. No amendments to the standard specification are possible, and the OTR price is £32,000.
MINI John Cooper Works Challenge will be unveiled to the public for the first time on the MINI stand at Goodwood Festival of Speed, 23rd to 26th June, and is available to order at MINI retailers across the UK now.
The MINI Challenge:  
The MINI Challenge has provided the best MINI racing in the UK since 2002, and is part of a family of racing championships run across Europe. For 2016, the UK MINI Challenge is split into three classes, offering incredibly close racing to drivers on a wide spread of budgets.
The top class features the current John Cooper Works racing car, best described as a ‘MINI-touring car’. With up to 255bhp and a six-speed sequential gearbox, these are the ultimate racing MINI models.
The Cooper S class is for previous generation (2006-2014) 1.6-litre Turbo cars built to Challenge specification, while the entry-level Cooper Class features normally aspirated first generation MINI models (2001-2006) and is ideal for those starting out in circuit racing. An Open Class has also been inaugurated for MINIs outside of these three classes.
The MINI Challenge is fought out over eight rounds including a meeting on the picturesque Brands Hatch Grand Prix track.
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Auto Express releases it's top 50 Brits in the Global car market list for 2016, the Brits are here, and going nowhere.

June 16, 2016, 12:46 am
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  • Auto Express reveals its top 50 Brits in the global car business
  • Mike Manley from Jeep takes number one spot
  • Citroen Global CEO Linda Jackson climbs six places to number two
Auto Express has today revealed its definitive list of the top 50 Brits working in the global car industry, with Jeep CEO Mike Manley taking the number one slot in 2016.
Manley, originally from Bedfordshire but now residing in the US, has transformed one of America’s greatest brands, quadrupled sales in just six years and set his company on the road to a target of selling 1.9 million cars by 2018. 
In 2015 Jeep sold a total of 1.23 million cars worldwide. Manley is extremely passionate about brands and he thinks it’s the strength of the Jeep brand that will help him achieve the near two million sales target.
In second place in this year’s Brit List is Linda Jackson, Global CEO of Citroen. Her vision for the iconic brand is coming to fruition with strong sales of existing models and a raft of new Citroens on the way.
The Auto Express judging panel comprised industry commentator and Motoring Editor of the Daily Mail, Ray Massey, and Chris Donkin, Industrial Sector Partner at The Inzito Partnership, along with Auto Express’ Steve Fowler, Graham Hope and John McIlroy.
Chairman of the judging panel, and Editor-in-Chief of Auto Express, Steve Fowler, said: “The British talent in the global car industry is something to be proud of, which is why we started to publish this list five years ago. Since then it has grown to be one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the industry calendar. This year’s list is teeming with talent, and I can’t wait to see what they achieve in the coming years.”

The Brit List 2016: top 50

1. Mike Manley
Head of brand, Jeep and RAM

2. Linda Jackson
CEO, Citroen

3. Duncan Aldred
US Vice-President, Buick-GMC 

4. Ian Callum
Director of Design, Jaguar

5. Trevor Mann
Chief Performance Officer, Nissan 

6. Nick Rogers
Director, Group Engineering, Jaguar Land Rover 

7. Paul Willcox
Senior Vice-President, Nissan & Chairman, Nissan Europe

8. Adrian Hallmark
Group Strategy Director, Jaguar Land Rover

9. Mark Adams
Vice-President, Vauxhall/Opel Design

10. Kevin Rose
Sales & Marketing ,Director, Bentley 

11. Mike O’Driscoll
Group CEO, Williams F1 Team
12. Joe Bakaj
Vice-President Product Development, Ford of Europe
13. Gerry McGovern
Design Director, Land Rover
14. Ron Dennis
Chairman, McLaren Group & Automotive
15. Allan Rushforth
Vice-President for Global Sales, Nissan
16. Andy Cowell
Managing Director, Mercedes AMG High-Performance Powertrains
17. Steven Armstrong
Vice-President, Ford & President, Ford South America
18. Andy Goss
Global Sales Operations Director, Jaguar Land Rover
19. Chris Porritt
Apple
20.  Simon Sproule
Chief Marketing Officer, Aston Martin
21. Julian Blissett
Executive Vice-President, SAIC-General Motors Corp
22. Moray Callum
Vice-President, Design, Ford
23. Marek Reichman
Design Director, Aston Martin
24. Mike Flewitt
Chief Executive, McLaren Automotive
25. Fiona Pargeter
Head of Global PR Communications, Jaguar Land Rover
26. Jon Goodman
Senior Vice-President, Corporate Communications, Volvo Cars
27. Graham Hoare
Director of Global Vehicle Evaluation & Verification, Ford
28. Mark Ovenden
President & CEO, FordSoller
29. Michael Cole
Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motor Europe
30.  John Edwards
Managing Director, Special Operations, Jaguar Land Rover
31. Richard Palmer
Chief Financial Officer, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles
32. Peter Horbury
Head of Design, Geely
33. Christian Horner
Team Principal, Red Bull Racing
34. Nigel Stein
Chief Executive, GKN 
35. Tim Abbott
Managing Director, BMW South Africa
36. Adrian Newey
Chief Technical Officer, Red Bull Racing
37. Mark Lloyd
Design Programme Director, Citroen
38. Paul Willis
CEO, VW Group UK
39. Chris Gubbey
CEO, The London Taxi Group
40. Robin Page
Vice-President, Interior Design, Volvo Cars
41. Mike Hawes
Chief Executive, Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders
42. Danella BagnallVehicle Programme Director, Jaguar Land Rover
43. Peter Thom
Vice-President, Quality, North America, General Motors
44. Martin Leach
President of NEXTEV
45. Claire Williams
Deputy Team Principal, Williams F1 Team
46. Lawrence Davies
CEO, Automotive Investment Organisation
47. Tony Laydon
Corporate Vice-President, Supply Chain, Nissan
48. Bernie Ecclestone
Chief Executive, F1 Group
49. Tony Williams-Kenny
Global Design Director, SAIC
50. Mark Sutcliffe
Vice President, Supply Chain Management, Renault-Nissan

The Auto Express hall of fame

2015 - Alan Batey

Last year’s Brit List winner Batey has the title of executive vice president and president, GM North America, and also serves on the board of GM China’s joint venture, Shanghai General Motors Co. As if that wasn’t enough, he’s the global boss of Chevrolet as well. 

2014 - Steve Odell

When Odell topped the Brit List he was busy restoring Ford of Europe to health. That success earned him a role at Detroit HQ, where he now heads global sales, marketing and service, reviving Ford and Lincoln worldwide – some way from his first role as a Ford graduate trainee. 

2013 - Ian Robertson

BMW’s global boss of sales and marketing was our second Brit List winner and Hall of Fame inductee. He’s still responsible for the brand’s growing sales success as it gears up to mark its centenary, with events planned this month in London and at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. 

2012 - Andy Palmer

Our first ever Brit List winner was working at Nissan at the time. Now he’s reshaping iconic British brand Aston Martin and is in the process of launching the all-new DB11. As at Nissan, Palmer’s love of electric power is coming into play at Aston, too.
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Powerful exterior with distinct 3-dimensional lines, that 's the All-New Kodiaq from Skoda, premieres in September.

June 16, 2016, 12:48 am
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  • Powerful exterior with distinct three-dimensional lines
  • Elegant appearance thanks to clear interior lines
  • Largest boot in its class, optional foldable third row
The ŠKODA Kodiaq, which will celebrate its world premiere in September, makes a strong statement with an impressive combination of powerful design and generous space. 
The exterior is clear-cut, the lines are distinctly three-dimensional – giving the new ŠKODA SUV an unmistakeable presence on the road. The interior is also characterised by clear lines and impresses with generous space alongside its elegant appearance.

Jozef Kabaň, ŠKODA’s Head of Design, and his team have opted for a striking design language for the ŠKODA Kodiaq, which transfers the brand’s new design style into the SUV segment. Rationality and aesthetics work together unmistakeably here. 
As the design sketch already shows, all lines are clear, precise and sharp; the highly recessed shoulder line highlights the large ŠKODA SUV’s robust character. Flat, raked headlights are positioned on both sides of the wide ŠKODA grille. 
Their crystalline structure pays hommage to Czech crystal glass art, which is steeped in tradition.
The extensively sculptured rear section also accentuates the ŠKODA Kodiaq’s sporty, robust SUV character. The LED rear lights are designed in the brand’s typical C-shape, continuing the ŠKODA SUV design lines in great detail. 
The side view is equally as strong. The long wheelbase and short overhangs point to the spacious interior. The SUV is available with two extra seats in the third row as an optional extra.
With its clear design, the interior continues the striking design of the exterior. Even here, form and functionality stand together in unison: the interior comes across as protective and robust, but also impresses with an elegant character. The atmosphere is timeless and functional. All the features exude clarity and tranquillity.
Strong vertical elements, like the four large air vents, are characteristic of the interior. The large display splits the instrument panel into two equal sections for the driver and passenger. The front of the instrument panel is three-dimensional and divided into two areas. The door trims carry on this design approach. Finely cut, crystalline features add a special touch.
Interview with Jozef Kabaň, ŠKODA’s Head of Design: “ŠKODA is becoming much more emotive”
Mr Kabaň, what does the design of the ŠKODA Kodiaq mean for the brand?


Jozef Kabaň: The ŠKODA Kodiaq is a pioneer for our brand in two respects. We are entering a new segment with our first large SUV above the Yeti. And at the same time, the Kodiaq is the first model with the new ŠKODA SUV design language. It is powerful and emotive, but also timeless.

What is special about the design language of your large SUV?
Kabaň: The ŠKODA Kodiaq is extremely versatile. It is exceptionally spacious and with compact external dimensions, it delivers the best overall package in its class. It is also robust, suits all types of terrain and offers the best flexibility and functionality. We wanted to visualise this in the exterior design as well as the interior. Form and functionality are therefore in harmony in the ŠKODA Kodiaq. The crystalline and striking appearance also underlines the strength and character of the ŠKODA Kodiaq.
How does one combine design and functionality?
Kabaň: We aspire to combine the highest degree of aesthetics with maximum functionality in such a way that one no longer speaks of different criteria. We are searching for beauty in simplicity, without disregarding functionality or ergonomics. A good design makes functionality attractive. This balance of functionality and aesthetics makes our ŠKODA Kodiaq special.
What role does Czech crystal glass art play in this?
Kabaň: Every detail of our models tells a story, that is the emotive power of the brand. We were inspired by traditional Czech crystal glass art for the crystalline elements of the ŠKODA Kodiaq. The lines are clear, precise and sharply drawn. The distinctive interplay of light and shade on the strongly contoured surfaces is distinctive. The crystalline structure is also present in the details, such as the headlights or decorative trims.
You can see the creativity and great attention to detail that also went into designing the interior. What do you consider the most interesting design feature of the ŠKODA Kodiaq's interior?
Kabaň: We are carrying the exterior’s wide, clear lines forward into the interior. And the emphasis here is on the harmony between form and functionality, on calm and clarity. For me, a car has to function perfectly and also radiate aesthetics. An interior should spark feelings of trust and well-being. From this philosophy, we have created an atmosphere that is also elegant, comfortable and functional at the same time.
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Jeep launches a new Top of the range Cherokee Overland to it's range of capable and functional off road cars.

June 16, 2016, 12:49 am
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Plans to expand the popular Jeep Cherokee range of 4x4 vehicles are announced today with details of a luxury new ‘Overland’ version.
The new top-of-the-range model, which made its International debut at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, is a 16MY model, and provides sophisticated style, elegant interiors, premium equipment with, of course, the Jeep brand's legendary off-road prowess.


Packed with a host of standard equipment, the new Jeep Cherokee Overland comes equipped with a 2.2-litre MultiJet II 200 horsepower turbo diesel engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission in either Active Drive I or Active Drive II 4WD.
The potent engine gives the car a 0-62mph time of 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 127mph. The Euro 6 unit has a 149g/km CO2 figure, due to an improved final drive ratio when compared with the MY15 Cherokee, and a fuel economy of 50.4 mpg.
The stylish new addition features a polished bright front grille, new body-coloured door cladding, front and rear bumpers and wheel arches, new 18-inch polished bright aluminium wheels, standard HID bi-xenon headlamps, and is finished with an Overland badge on the tailgate.
The car comes in a range of colours: Deep Cherry Red, Bright White, Brilliant Black and Billet Silver.
Its refined looks are complemented by a long list of premium enhancements, including powered Nappa leather ventilated and heated driver and front passenger seats with four-way lumbar adjustment, memory driver’s seat and mirrors, a new steering wheel with wood insert, anodized silver bezels and vent surrounds, and Berber floor mats.
The interior is available in Morocco Black Nappa Leather, or in a brand new Pearl coloured Nappa Leather finish. Both interiors have no additional cost and both carry the signature Overland logo in premium stitching on the front seats.
Entertainment comes courtesy of a powerful Alpine Premium sound system, while there’s also a Uconnect radio with 8.4-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth and GPS navigation.
The equipment level on the Cherokee Overland continues with, as standard, a stylish panoramic sunroof, power tailgate and ParkSense front and rear reverse assist system. 
Pricing for the new Jeep Cherokee Overland is as follows:
2.2 MultiJet II 200hp Overland Active Drive I 4WD 9 speed automatic   £38,745
2.2 MultiJet II 200hp Overland Active Drive II 4WD 9 speed automatic £39,950
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East Anglia and London are named as the worst regions for stolen cars being made for sale.

June 16, 2016, 12:52 am
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  • HPI urges used car buyers to protect themselves from losing the car and the money they paid for it
  • www.hpicheck.com
Nearly 15,000 stolen cars being offered for sale were uncovered by vehicle history check expert, HPI, in 2015.  The latest figures from HPI reveal that East Anglia and London were the two regions where the greatest number of stolen cars were discovered by buyers who conducted an HPI Check®.  Scotland, North East England and Northern Ireland are where the least stolen cars were offered for sale.

Within East Anglia, Norfolk and Suffolk harboured the most stolen vehicles for sale, with South West London and Middlesex, being London’s hotspots.  Cambridge and Essex, both in East Anglia, also showed a higher propensity of stolen vehicles for sale than other areas across the UK.  Interestingly, Cambridge did not appear as an area of concern in 2014, but replaces Avon in HPI’s 2015 analysis.
“Consumers simply do not realise that if they unwittingly buy a stolen car that is later proven to be recorded as stolen with the police, they stand to lose both the car and their money,” says Philip Nothard, cap hpi consumer and retail editor.  “Once a vehicle is revealed as stolen, it will be returned to its rightful owner, whether that’s the previous owner or the insurance company that paid out a claim on it, leaving the victim with no car and, potentially, thousands of pounds out of pocket.”
HPI’s analysis of 76 areas across the UK (where the majority of vehicle history checks were conducted in 2015*) reports that Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Midlands, Tyne & Wear, Belfast, Wiltshire and Devon had the least number of stolen cars advertised for sale.
To help buyers radically reduce the risk of falling foul of car thieves, HPI offers four simple, but highly effective rules consumers should apply when buying privately.
One… Buyers must always make sure they view the car at the registered keepers address (as shown on the V5C/logbook). Buyers should ensure all the VIN/chassis numbers on the vehicle match each other and then use the HPI Check to ensure they tally with the details as recorded with the DVLA.
Two…Know the car’s market value. If they are paying less than 70% of the market price for a vehicle, then they should be on their guard. There is rarely such a thing as a bargain and no genuine seller will want to lose money on their sale.
Three…Don’t pay with cash, particularly if the car is costing more than £3,000. Some criminals will take a bankers draft as part payment, because the cash part is sufficient profit without ever cashing the bankers draft.  Most crooks selling stolen cars would rather walk away from a sale than take a payment that could be traced back to them. Despite strong advice to buyers to pay via the banking system, HPI still hears of many buyers who go on to pay in cash and subsequently find out that the car is stolen, and that they’ve lost both their money and the vehicle.
Four...Check the vehicle’s V5C/logbook. Stolen V5C documents are still being used to accompany stolen vehicles.  As an added security measure, the HPI Check continues to include a unique stolen V5C document check as standard.  This will confirm whether or not the document is one that the DVLA have recorded as stolen.
Philip Nothard concludes, “Our analysis shows where in the UK used car buyers should take extra care, however, we’d recommend a vehicle history check before you buy, wherever you are in the UK. By visitingwww.hpicheck.com, buyers can find out if that dream machine has something to hide, including whether it’s been recorded as stolen. There is no way to detect a stolen car with the naked eye and buying blind just isn’t worth the risk.”
The HPI Check also includes a mileage check against the National Mileage Register as standard, with over 200 million mileage readings. HPI also confirms whether a vehicle has outstanding finance against it or has been written off by an insurer.  With more than 80 valuable data points, the HPI Check the best way for consumers to protect themselves from fraudsters looking to make a fast profit.  
2015 Regions
  1. East Anglia
  2. London
  3. North West England
  4. Midlands
  5. South East England
  6. Wales
  7. South West England
  8. South Central England
  9. Scotland
  10. North East England
  11. Northern Ireland
2015 Top 6 Sub-Regions  (76 sub-regions analysed)
  1. Norfolk, East Anglia
  2. South West London, London
  3. = Suffolk, East Anglia
    = Middlesex, London
  4. = Cambridge East Anglia
    = Essex, East Anglia
Sub-regions where the fewest stolen cars were offered for sale include:
  • Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Nottinghamshire in the Midlands
  • Tyne & Wear in the North East
  • Belfast, Northern Ireland
  • Wiltshire, South Central
  • Devon, South West
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GOODWOOD - Aston to debut the All-New DB11 with it's first public running up the famous Hill.

June 17, 2016, 12:23 am
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  • Aston Martin DB11 to make global dynamic debut
  • Return of Aston Martin Vulcan after 2015 debut at Festival of Speed
  • Aston Martin’s Goodwood to be a celebration of all things Vantage
Aston Martin is set to continue a tradition of thrilling the crowds at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next week. Visitors to the annual must see event which is a glorious celebration of motoring and motorsport, will be treated to the sights and sounds of the best sports cars that the British luxury brand has to offer.
The Festival of Speed plays host to the global dynamic debut of the new Aston Martin DB11. Launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the DB11 marks a new chapter in the illustrious ‘DB’ bloodline. 

It is the most powerful, efficient and dynamically gifted DB model in Aston Martin’s history, teaming exceptional design with the latest technology to create a car that is the most significant new Aston Martin since the introduction of the DB9 in 2003.
Aston Martin President and CEO, Dr Andy Palmer will be behind the wheel of the DB11 at Goodwood to demonstrate all 608PS of the in-house designed 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine. He commented: “The Goodwood Festival of Speed is one of the best events of the summer season and Lord March’s beautiful estate has become a place of pilgrimage for car enthusiasts.
“Being the first person to drive the new DB11 up the famous hill climb at Goodwood is a great honour on behalf of all our employees.”
Making a return to the Festival of Speed is the Aston Martin Vulcan, which made its world debut at Goodwood in 2015. Born out of extensive motorsport experience – and using the brand’s acknowledged flair for design and engineering ingenuity – the 820bhp, all-carbon fibre Aston Martin Vulcan delivers truly extreme performance.
Powered by a potent 7.0-litre V12 normally aspirated engine, Aston Martin Vulcan is expected to reach speeds of over 100mph as it roars to the top of Goodwood’s famous hill climb. Strictly limited to just 24 models worldwide and now sold out, the Festival of Speed is a great opportunity to showcase the skills of the special projects division responsible for the brand’s most intense and exhilarating creation to date.
Aston Martin Racing works’ driver and high performance development driver Darren Turner said: “Last year the car was only three days old when we arrived at Goodwood and we hadn’t even done a circuit test. Since then we’ve completed 15,000kms of testing and the car is now an incredible machine to drive. Despite being straight out of the box last year its performance over the weekend was fantastic. I’m looking forward to going back up the hill in the Aston Martin Vulcan and this time really being able to push.”
The Festival of Speed will also be a celebration of all things Vantage for Aston Martin.  The race-bred Aston Martin Vantage GT8 will take part in the Supercar Shootout up the Goodwood hill on Saturday in the capable hands of Aston Martin Racing Works driver Darren Turner.  The car is equally at home on the road or on the track so it is expected to feature strongly.
Inspired and influenced by the 2016 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTE race car, the Vantage GT8 is a true thoroughbred. The lightest and most powerful V8 Vantage ever, the Vantage GT8’s dramatically sculpted carbon fibre bodywork has been shaped by race-bred aerodynamic function. With a super-sharp chassis tuned for track-focused agility, powered by a revised 446PS version of Aston Martin’s rousing 4.7-litre V8, the Vantage GT8 has unmistakable style, a no-nonsense stance and a driving experience that’s second to none.
The Aston Martin V12 Vantage S is the marque’s offering to the purists and it will be demonstrating its exceptional agility at the Festival of Speed. Offered with a 7-speed manual transmission, featuring a ‘dog-leg’ first gear, the Vantage S epitomises Aston Martin’s commitment to building exceptional sports cars.
Aside from the high speed dynamic attractions at the 23rd Festival of Speed, Aston Martin will also have a strong presence at the event’s Moving Motor Show.
Staged every summer since 1993, the Goodwood Festival of Speed is the world’s largest automotive garden party, set against the spectacular backdrop of Goodwood House in West Sussex.
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