Hyundai Motor UK has officially announced the pricing and specification of the New Generation i30

January 25, 2017, 1:35 am

≫ Next: Citroen moves into the future with the All-New C3 supermini taking the reigns for the racing division.

≪ Previous: caterham has its best year since 1996 with over 600 units being sold, and 45% to export.

New Generation i30 prices start from £16,995
Introducing the new 1.4 T-GDi 140PS engine with 6 speed manual or 7 speed DCT transmission
3 cylinder 1.0 T-GDi joins the i30 range for the first time
New Generation i30 hatchback the first in a family of models

Hyundai Motor UK has officially announced the pricing and specification of the New Generation i30, which will go on sale in the UK on 1^st March.

New Generation i30 offers a high level of standard safety equipment, with Lane Departure Warning System, Forward Collision Warning System, Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking and Hill Start Assist Control featuring on all models.

Standard technology and connectivity equipment also feature with all New Generation i30’s benefitting from DAB and Bluetooth regardless of trim level.

Prices will start from £16,995 for the i30 S 1.0 T-GDi 120PS 6 speed manual, which offers 15” alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, DAB radio with USB and aux connections, Bluetooth with steering wheel controls, electric front and rear windows and driver seat height adjustment.

From £18,695, the i30 SE 1.0 T-GDi 120PS Manual builds on S trim level by offering customers additional equipment including 16” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, DAB radio with 5” LCD touchscreen, rear parking assist system, rear view camera and leather steering wheel. SE specification is also available with a 1.6 CRDi 110PS, with 6 speed manual transmission.

Moving further up the range, the i30 SE Nav 1.0 T-GDi 120PS Manual at £19,645 continues with SE specification and adds additional enhancements to technology and connectivity, with integrated satellite navigation with 8” LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth with voice recognition and wireless phone charging*. As a £1000 customer option, SE Nav specification is available with the Visibility Pack, which comprises dual LED headlights, 17” alloy wheels and dual zone climate control.

SE Nav specification is also the first trim level to introduce the new 1.4 T-GDi 140PS engine, available with a 6 speed manual, or 7 speed DCT transmission, whilst the 1.6 CRDi 110PS engine, available with either a 6 speed manual or 7 speed DCT transmission, is an additional customer option.

Raising the specification further, Premium starts at £22,195 for the 1.4 T-GDi 140PS Manual. Premium trim includes 17” alloy wheels with uprated Michelin tyres, dual zone climate control, electronic parking brake with auto hold function, privacy glass and heated front seats with artificial leather/cloth seat facings. Drivers also benefit from an electrically adjustable seat, a supervision instrument cluster with 4.2” display and driver assistance systems including front and rear parking assist system and blind spot detection system with rear cross traffic alert and LED front headlights and rear combination lights. At Premium trim level, the 1.4 T-GDi with a 7 speed DCT transmission and a 1.6 CRDi 110PS engine with either a 6 speed manual or 7 speed DCT transmission are also available.

The top of the range Premium SE enters the range at £23,495 for the 1.4 T-GDi 140PS Manual, adding panoramic sunroof, leather seat facings and a heated steering wheel to the Premium specification. Premium SE is also available with the 6 speed manual, 7 speed DCT transmission, with either the 1.4 T-GDi 140PS or 1.6 CRDi 110PS.

New Generation i30 is available in a choice of 11 colours, with a new colour Engine Red joining Polar White as solid finish, no cost options. Stargazing Blue, Demitasse Brown, Intense Copper, Fiery Red, Platinum Silver, Micron Gray, Phantom Black, Ara Blue and White Sand are all metallic or pearl paint finishes, a £585 option.

Tony Whitehorn, President and CEO Hyundai Motor UK said “The i30 has played a significant part in Hyundai’s transformation over the past decade; with over 117,000 i30’s sold in the UK since the first generation was launched in 2007. The second generation i30 achieved nearly 70,000 sales and we have solid expectations for the New Generation i30. The original i30 was the model that sowed the seeds of our growth and we are confident that the New Generation i30 will again bring new customers into the brand with its great looks, technology and confident dynamic abilities.”

All New Generation i30 models come with Hyundai’s industry leading 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, 5 Year Roadside Assistance package, 5 Year Annual Health Check, and 12 Year Anti Corrosion Warranty.

New Generation i30 Pricing

Model	Fuel Type	CO₂Emissions (g/km)	VED Band	Recommended On The Road Price	P11D Value	BIK %
S 1.0 T-GDi 120PS 5DR - Manual	Petrol	115	C	£16,995.00	£16,940.00	20%
SE 1.0 T-GDi 120PS 5DR - Manual	Petrol	115	C	£18,695.00	£18,640.00	20%
SE 1.6 CRDi 110PS 5DR - Manual	Diesel	99	A	£19,695.00	£19,640.00	19%
SE Nav 1.0 T-GDi 120PS 5DR - Manual	Petrol	115	C	£19,645.00	£19,590.00	20%
SE Nav 1.4 T-GDi 140PS 5DR - Manual	Petrol	124	D	£20,395.00	£20,340.00	21%
SE Nav 1.6 CRDi 110PS 5DR - Manual	Diesel	99	A	£20,645.00	£20,590.00	19%
SE Nav 1.4 T-GDi 140PS 5DR - DCT	Petrol	125	D	£21,395.00	£21,340.00	22%
SE Nav 1.6 CRDi 110PS 5DR - DCT	Diesel	109	B	£21,645.00	£21,590.00	21%
Premium 1.4 T-GDi 140PS 5DR - Manual	Petrol	124	D	£22,195.00	£22,140.00	21%
Premium 1.6 CRDi 110PS 5DR - Manual	Diesel	99	A	£22,445.00	£22,390.00	19%
Premium 1.4 T-GDi 140PS 5DR - DCT	Petrol	125	D	£23,195.00	£23,140.00	22%
Premium 1.6 CRDi 110PS 5DR - DCT	Diesel	109	B	£23,445.00	£23,390.00	21%
Premium SE 1.4 T-GDi 140PS 5DR - Manual	Petrol	124	D	£23,495.00	£23,440.00	21%
Premium SE 1.6 CRDi 110PS 5DR - Manual	Diesel	99	A	£23,745.00	£23,690.00	19%
Premium SE 1.4 T-GDi 140PS 5DR - DCT	Petrol	125	D	£24,495.00	£24,440.00	22%
Premium SE 1.6 CRDi 110PS 5DR - DCT	Diesel	109	B	£24,745.00	£24,690.00	21%

Optional Extra
Metallic / Pearl Paint				£585
Visibility Pack (SE Nav models only) including:				£1,000
- Dual LED Headlights
- 17" Alloy Wheels
- Dual Auto Air Conditioning

New Generation i30 Specification

	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
1.0 Petrol T-GDi - 6 Speed Manual Transmission (120PS)	●	●	●	-	-
1.4 T-GDi - 6 Speed Manual Transmission (140PS)	-	-	●	●	●
1.4 T-GDi - 7 Speed DCT Transmission (140PS)	-	-	●	●	●
1.6 CRDi Diesel - 6 Speed Manual Transmission (110PS)	-	●	●	●	●
1.6 CRDi Diesel - 7 Speed DCT Transmission (110PS)	-	-	●	●	●
EXTERIOR	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
15" Alloy Wheels	●	-	-	-	-
16" Alloy Wheels	-	●	●	-	-
17" Alloy Wheels	-	-	-	●	●
Bumpers - Body Coloured	●	●	●	●	●
Chrome Effect Beltline Moulding	-	-	-	●	●
Door Mirrors with Integrated Indicators - Body Coloured	●	●	●	●	●
Exterior Door Handles - Body Coloured	●	●	●	●	●
Exterior Door Handles - Chrome Effect	-	-	-	●	●
Radiator Grille - Black	●	-	-	-	-
Radiator Grille - Black with Chrome Inserts	-	●	●	●	●
Rear Spoiler with Integrated LED Brake Light	●	●	●	●	●
Shark Fin Antenna	●	●	●	●	●
Window Surround - Black	●	●	●	-	-
INTERIOR STYLING	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
Interior Door Handles - Black	●	-	-	-	-
Interior Door Handles - Chrome Effect	-	●	●	●	●
Interior Front Map Reading Light and Sunglasses Holder	●	●	●	●	●
Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel, Hand Brake and Gear Knob	-	●	●	●	●
SEATING	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
Driver's Seat Electric Adjustments	-	-	-	●	●
Driver's Seat Height Adjustment (Electric)	-	-	-	●	●
Driver's Seat Height Adjustment (Manual)	●	●	●	-	-
Driver's Seat Lumbar Support (Electric)	-	●	●	●	●
Driver's Seat Manual Adjustments	●	●	●	-	-
Front Passenger's Seat Height Adjustment (Manual)	-	●	●	●	●
Front Passenger's Seat Manual Adjustments	●	●	●	●	●
Front Seats - Heated	-	-	-	●	●
Head Restraints - Vertical and Horizontal Adjustment (Front)	●	●	●	●	●
Rear Seats - Split Folding (60/40)	●	●	●	●	●
Seat Trim - Cloth & Leather	-	-	-	●	●
Seat Trim - Cloth	●	●	●	-	-
Seat Trim - Leather (Seat Facings Only)	-	-	-	-	●
VENTILATION & VISIBILITY	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
Adjustable Intermittent Front Windscreen Wipers with Aero Wiper Blade	●	●	●	●	●
Climate Control (Dual Zone)	-	-	-	●	●
Manual Air Conditioning	●	●	●	-	-
Automatic De-fog System for Front Windscreen	-	-	-	●	●
Automatic Dimming Rear View Mirror	-	●	●	●	●
Automatic Headlight Follow-Me-Home Function	●	●	●	●	●
Automatic Headlights with Dusk Sensor	●	●	●	●	●
Cornering Lights - Static	●	●	●	●	●
Daytime Running Lights - LED	●	●	●	●	●
Door Mirrors Puddle Lights	-	-	-	●	●
Fog Lights - Front and Rear	-	●	●	●	●
Halogen Projector Headlights with Static Front Cornering Function	●	●	●	-	-
Headlights - LED	-	-	-	●	●
Headlights - Manual Beam Levelling	●	●	●	●	●
Headlights - Smart High Beam	●	●	●	●	●
Indicator Lights - Door Mirror	●	●	●	●	●
Interior Light - Cabin and Luggage Compartment	●	●	●	●	●
Interior Lights - Front, Rear and Luggage Compartment	●	●	●	●	●
Privacy Glass - Rear Windows and Tailgate	-	-	-	●	●
Rear Air Vents - Centre Console	-	-	-	●	●
Rear Lights - LED	-	-	-	●	●
Rear Windscreen Wiper - 1 Speed Non Intermittent	●	●	●	●	●
Solar Glass with Windscreen Shade Band	-	-	-	●	●
Sunroof - Panoramic Glass Electric Tilt and Slide	-	-	-	-	●
Tinted Glass with Windscreen Shade Band	●	●	●	-	-
CONVENIENCE	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
12V Power Outlets in Front Console and Luggage Compartment	●	●	●	●	●
Arm Rest - Front with Storage	-	●	●	●	●
Arm Rest - Rear with Cup Holders	-	●	●	●	●
Cruise Control with Speed Limiter	●	●	●	●	●
Cup Holders - Front	●	●	●	●	●
Door Mirrors - Automatic Power Folding	-	-	-	●	●
Door Mirrors - Electric Adjustment and Heated	●	●	●	●	●
Door Mirrors - Electric Folding	-	●	●	-	-
Door Mirrors Automatic Reverse Tilt Function	●	●	●	●	●
Door Pockets - Front & Rear	●	●	●	●	●
Electric Windows - Front and Rear	●	-	-	-	-
Electric Windows - Front and Rear with Anti-Trap Mechanism and One Touch Control (Driver Window)	-	●	●	●	●
Glove Compartment	●	●	●	●	●
Heated Steering Wheel	-	-	-	-	●
Ignition Socket Illumination	●	●	●	-	-
Parking Brake - Electric with Auto Hold Function	-	-	-	●	●
Parking Brake - Manual	●	●	●	-	-
Parking Sensors - Front and Rear	-	-	-	●	●
Parking Sensors - Rear	-	●	●	-	-
Parking System - Rear Camera and Guidance System	-	●	●	●	●
Ski Through	-	●	●	●	●
Smart Key - Keyless Entry with Engine Start/Stop Button	-	-	-	●	●
Spare Wheel - Emergency Space Saver (Steel)	-	●	●	●	●
Sun Visors - with Driver and Passenger Illuminated Vanity Mirrors	●	●	●	●	●
Sunglasses Holder	●	●	●	●	●
Tyre Repair Kit	●	-	-	-	-
Windscreen Washer Fluid Sensor and Warning Indicator	●	●	●	●	●

TECHNOLOGY & ENTERTAINMENT	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
Bluetooth® Connectivity	●	●	●	●	●
Digital Clock	●	●	●	●	●
Driver's Supervision Instrument Cluster with LCD Display (4.2")	-	-	-	●	●
Phone Connection - Android Auto	-	-	●	●	●
Phone Connection - Apple CarPlay	-	-	●	●	●
Radio - Digital DAB	●	●	●	●	●
Radio - Stereo, RDS with MP3 Compatibility	●	●	●	●	●
Speakers - 2 Tweeters, 2 Front, 2 Rear	●	●	●	●	●
Steering Wheel Audio, Phone and Cruise Controls	●	●	●	●	●
Touchscreen Media Centre (5")	-	●	-	-	-
Touchscreen Satellite Navigation (8") including Traffic Messaging Channel, Mapcare and Live Services	-	-	●	●	●
Trip Computer	●	●	●	●	●
USB - Centre Console	●	●	●	●	●
Wireless Phone Charging Pad	-	-	●	●	●
SAFETY & SECURITY	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
Lane Departure and Forward Collision Warning System	●	●	●	●	●
Active Head Restraints	●	●	●	●	●
Airbag - Front Passenger De-Activation Switch	●	●	●	●	●
Airbag - Rollover Sensor (Curtain)	●	●	●	●	●
Airbags - Front, Front Side & Curtain Airbags	●	●	●	●	●
Alarm - Thatcham Category 2	●	●	●	●	●
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)	●	●	●	●	●
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)	●	●	●	●	●
Blind Spot Detection System (BSD)	-	-	-	●	●
Central Locking - Remote Control	●	●	●	●	●
Childproof Rear Door Locks	●	●	●	●	●
Deadlocks	●	●	●	●	●
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)	●	●	●	●	●
Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)	●	●	●	●	●
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)	●	●	●	●	●
Immobiliser	●	●	●	●	●
ISOfix Child Seat Anchorage Points - Rear (outer seats only)	●	●	●	●	●
Lane Departure Warning System with Lane Keep Assist (LKAS)	●	●	●	●	●
Locking Wheel Nuts	●	●	●	●	●
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)	-	-	-	●	●
Seatbelt Reminder - Front	●	●	●	●	●
Speed Sensitive Automatic Door Locking	●	●	●	●	●
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Individual Tyre Pressure Display	●	●	●	●	●
CUSTOMER OPTIONS	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
Metallic / Pearl Paint	□	□	□	□	□
Visibility Pack - Dual LED headlights, 17" Alloy Wheels, Dual Zone Climate Control with Auto De-fog System	-	-	□	-	-
WARRANTY	S	SE	SE Nav	Premium	Premium SE
12 Years' Anti-Perforation Warranty	●	●	●	●	●
Five Year Annual Vehicle Health Checks	●	●	●	●	●
Five Year Roadside Assistance	●	●	●	●	●
Five Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty	●	●	●	●	●

New Generation i30 Technical

Engine	1.0 T-GDi 120PS 6 Speed Manual	1.4 T-GDi 140PS 6 Speed Manual	1.4 T-GDi 140PS 7 Speed DCT	1.6 CRDi 110PS 6 Speed Manual	1.6 CRDi 110PS 7 Speed DCT
Type	3 Cylinder DOHC D-CVVT	4 Cylinder DOHC D-CVVT	4 Cylinder DOHC D-CVVT	4 Cylinder DOHC VGT	4 Cylinder DOHC VGT
Valve	12 valve	16 valve	16 valve	16 valve	16 valve
Euro Status	EURO 6	EURO 6	EURO 6	EURO 6	EURO 6
Displacement (cc)	998	1353	1353	1582	1582
Bore & stroke	71.0 x 84.0	71.6 x 84.0	71.6 x 84.0	77.2 x 84.5	77.2 x 84.5
Compression ratio	10:1	10:1	10:1	16:1	16:1
Max power (PS/kW)	120 / 88.3 @6000 rpm	140 / 103.0 @6000 rpm	140 / 103.0 @6000 rpm	110 / 80.9 @4000 rpm	110 / 80.9 @4000 rpm
Torque (Nm/lbs ft)	171.1 / 126.2 @1500 - 4000 rpm	242 / 178.5 @1500 rpm	242 / 178.5 @1500 rpm	280 / 206.5 @1500 - 2500 rpm	280 / 206.5 @1500 - 2500 rpm
0-62mph (seconds)	11.1	8.9	9.2	11.0	11.2
Top speed (mph)	118	130	127	118	118
Suspension
Front/Rear	MacPherson Strut / Multi-Link
Steering
System	Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS)
Steering wheel lock to lock turns	2.57
Turning Circle (metres)	10.6
Brakes
System	ABS with front and rear discs diagonally split
Front	15" disc (S) 16" disc (SE, SE Nav, Premium)
Rear	14" disc (S/SE/SE Nav) 15" disc (Premium)
Tyres
S - (Hankook)	195/65 R15	-	-	-	-
SE - (Hankook)	205/55 R16	-	-	205/55 R16	-
SE Nav - (Hankook)	205/55 R16	205/55 R16	205/55 R16	205/55 R16	205/55 R16
SE Nav + Vis.Pack (Michelin)	225/45 R17	225/45 R17	225/45 R17	225/45 R17	225/45 R17
Premium - (Michelin)	-	225/45 R17	225/45 R17	225/45 R17	225/45 R17
Wheels
S	6.0J × 15 (Alloy)	-	-	-	-
SE	6.5J × 16 (Alloy)	-	-	6.5J × 16 (Alloy)	-
SE Nav	6.5J × 16 (Alloy)	6.5J × 16 (Alloy)	6.5J × 16 (Alloy)	6.5J × 16 (Alloy)	6.5J × 16 (Alloy)
SE Nav + Vis.Pack	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)
Premium	-	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)	7.0J × 17 (Alloy)
Dimensions
Overall height (mm)	1455
Overall length (mm)	4340
Overall width (mm) (Ex. Mirrors)	1795
Track - front (mm)	1573 (15" Alloy) - 1565 (16" Alloy) - 1559 (17" Alloy)
Track - rear (mm)	1581 (15" Alloy) - 1573 (16" Alloy) - 1567 (17" Alloy)
Wheelbase (mm)	2650
Weights & Capacities
Fuel tank capacity (litres)	50	50	50	50	50
Gross train weight (kg)	3000	3220	3250	3360	3400
Gross vehicle weight (kg)	1800	1820	1850	1860	1900
Kerb weight (kg)	1194 - 1342	1204 - 1352	1240 - 1388	1263 - 1411	1293 - 1441
Luggage capacity VDA (litres)	1301 seats down
Luggage capacity VDA (litres)	395 seats up
Max roof weight (kg)	80
Max tow weight (kg) - Braked	1200	1400	1400	1500	1500
Max tow weight (kg) - Unbraked	600	600	600	650	650
Noseweight (kg)	80
Payload (kg)	458 - 606	468 - 616	462 - 610	449 - 597	459 - 607
Fuel consumption & Emissions
CO₂ Emissions (g/km)*	115	124	125	99	109
Combined mpg (l/100km)**	56.5 (5.0)	52.3 (5.4)	51.4 (5.5)	74.3 (3.8)	68.9 (4.1)
Extra urban mpg (l/100km)**	61.4 (4.6)	58.9 (4.8)	56.5 (5.0)	78.5 (3.6)	72.4 (3.9)
Urban mpg (l/100km)**	48.7 (5.8)	42.8 (6.6)	44.1 (6.4)	67.3 (4.2)	64.2 (4.4)

↧

Citroen moves into the future with the All-New C3 supermini taking the reigns for the racing division.

January 25, 2017, 1:37 am

≫ Next: END OF YEAR - AUDI - Globally and the UK both set show sales gains, with the UK posting Record sales.

≪ Previous: Hyundai Motor UK has officially announced the pricing and specification of the New Generation i30

The moment that WRC fans have been desperately waiting for is finally upon us: in a few days, the 2017 World Rally Championship will get underway on the stages of the legendary Rallye Monte-Carlo.

The Citroën C3 WRC – designed to meet the new FIA regulations – will be making its competitive debut. Driven by Kris Meeke/Paul Nagle and Stéphane Lefebvre/Gabin Moreau, two cars have been entered for the opening round of the season.

Apart from the prestige evoked by its name, Rallye Monte-Carlo owes much of its reputation to the unpredictability of the rallying conditions. In January, the roads in the hills of the south-west of France can be snow-covered, icy, wet or just dry, meaning that in a single stage, drivers can experience all of these conditions.

Tyre choice is therefore of critical importance. It's all about estimating, for an entire loop of stages, what represents the best compromise. Gaps can open up and disappear very quickly, making the race even more exciting.

On this, the 85th running of the event, the oldest rally in the world will be spread over four days. On Thursday, 19 January, the rally will get underway in the evening, with the ceremonial start in Monaco.

The crews will then head towards Gap, where they will tackle two evening stages, one of which is new this year. After a short night's rest, day two promises to be incredibly intense, with two loops of three stages contested in the Isère and Hautes-Alpes departments.

On Saturday, the competitors return to Monaco, completing five stages on the way. The final leg, contested with no service, will see the crews tackle the famous Col de Turini. The rally is scheduled to finish in the Principality on Sunday, 22 January, in the early afternoon.

THE CHALLENGES: THE START OF A NEW ERA FOR THE WRC

The start of a new season is invariably the source of great interest for rally fans. But this year, the excitement has been ramped up with the introduction of new cars, more powerful and spectacular than their predecessors.

In addition to the new regulations and cars, this year's driver transfer market has been particularly eventful and intriguing, so much so that we enter the 2017 season with a large number of unknowns and variables.

On its return as a works team to the WRC, the Citroën Total Abu Dhabi WRT has generated a lot of interest, but no one is getting carried away in the ranks of the Red Army.

Everyone is eager to see the first times, with a mix of excitement and anxiety, to find out if the results of all the hard work over the last two years or so meet the ambitions of the brand.

At four of the year's first five rallies, Citroën Total Abu Dhabi WRT will only enter two C3 WRCs.

This time, Kris Meeke/Paul Nagle and Stéphane Lefebvre/Gabin Moreau have been tasked with scoring points towards the Manufacturers' World Championship.

Meanwhile, Craig Breen/Scott Martin will be competing in a previous generation car. They will therefore be able to score points in the Drivers' World Championship.

Last year, Kris Meeke was fighting for the lead before he had to retire. Meanwhile, Stéphane Lefebvre finished fifth, which remains his best result in the World Championship. This year, the team-mates will have the same ambition: eliminate the unknowns and manage the variables as they try to solve the tricky equation posed by the 2017 Rallye Monte-Carlo.

2017 RALLYE MONTE-CARLO KEY FIGURES

17 timed stages covering a total of 382,65 km
76 entries, including 10 2017 generation WRCs
41 tyres per crew (maximum), chosen from a total of 72 with 4 types of compound
22 different professions working within the Citroën Racing Team: engineers, specialist mechanics, engine specialists, gravel/tarmac crews, meteorologists, press officers, caterers, drivers, etc.

WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY

Yves Matton, Team Principal, Citroën Racing: “As is always the case at the start of a new programme, we do feel that a few extra days would have been very welcome in order to spend more time developing the car. The development of the C3 WRC has been the shortest in the history of Citroën Racing and we have to stress the extraordinary investment made by our teams over the last few months.

Having said that, we are eager to see where we stand. That competitive spirit is hard-wired in us. The car seems to be well-designed and consistent, but we'll just have to see how it compares with its rivals.

Our crews will have two different approaches. Kris showed last year that he has the ability to win this rally. But of course, we need to differentiate between driving throughout a day on a test run and completing a four-day rally with only two passes on the stages in recce.

We'll need to be defensive at the start, to see where the competition lies and then look ahead to the rest of the rally. It will be different for Stéphane. Like Craig, we want to take him to a level where he can challenge for wins.

But before that, there will still be a period of learning, especially in the first half of the season. He needs to aim for a points finish and ensure he makes it to the end. We only have two cars here, which means that there's no backup option or safety net.”

Laurent Fregosi, Technical Director, Citroën Racing: "We come to Monte-Carlo with the feeling that we have done some good testing to prepare for this rally.

The drivers seem comfortable in the C3 WRC and that makes us optimistic about the raw performance levels of the car. Preparations for Monte-Carlo concentrated in two areas: test a wide variety of tyre combinations and explore the set-up options, in order to check if the usual 'recipes' work with this new car.

We spent a lot of time studying the mapping of the active central differential. This new component allows us to subtly adjust the handling of the car depending on the road conditions.

The aim is to provide the drivers with an 'easy' car, which is forgiving when there is a sudden change in grip. This first rally will also provide us with a good test of our car's reliability. On this surface, it's mainly the driveshaft that is given a bit of a hammering during the changes in grip."

Kris Meeke: “We're getting close to the point where we should be ready to start a rally in the best possible conditions. After our last test sessions, I can't wait to move onto the next stage. I have the feeling that we'll be in the spotlight here, but I hope I can concentrate on my driving.

It's never easy to compete at Monte-Carlo. At each service, we'll need to put our heads together to come up with the right – or the least wrong – tyre choice. People have no idea of the mountains of work done during test sessions to acquire data and then work out whether a given option is the right one.

In this area, Citroën Racing has a great deal of experience that I can make use of. For this first rally, my aim is pretty simple: stay relaxed and enjoy myself in the car. They do say, and rightly so, that anything can happen at Monte-Carlo.”

Stêphane Lefebvre: “Gradually, I realise that the day of reckoning is getting closer. What we have been talking about for months as being in the future is now here, in the present. We have been discussing all sorts of things with the engineers, every day, talking about the slightest detail related to my car.

Nothing has been left to chance and it's genuinely fascinating to be in the middle of this works team. On this, my first rally with this status, I will be aiming to finish in a good position and score as many points as possible for Citroën.

I think I'm still short of time behind the wheel with the C3 WRC and I don't want to get ahead of myself. I have to get to grips with the car in racing conditions before trying to drive on the limit. I think we're all in the same boat to some extent, with a number of unknowns in all areas.”

Craig Breen: "I will certainly be the driver under the least pressure this weekend. I'm pleased to start my season in an old car, because I don't have a lot of experience at Monte-Carlo. This appearance will give me the chance to learn about the rally.

It will also be an opportunity to note the gap between the two generations of World Rally Cars. My priority is to rack up the miles, but I will also be pleased if I manage to score a few points. They may come in handy in the final reckoning at the end of the season."

↧

END OF YEAR - AUDI - Globally and the UK both set show sales gains, with the UK posting Record sales.

January 25, 2017, 1:40 am

≫ Next: END OF YEAR - RENAULT - 13.3% growth for the French brand is way above word growth figures.

≪ Previous: Citroen moves into the future with the All-New C3 supermini taking the reigns for the racing division.

Collective sales increase is achieved with the help of a sixth consecutive record-breaking total for Audi in the UK.

177,566 units delivered, up 6.4 percent on full year 2015
UK remains the largest export market for Audi in Europe
Global Audi sales up 3.8 percent to 1.871 million deliveries in 2016
2017 supported by introduction of new A5 range, Q5 and the Q2 compact SUV

Audi once again enjoyed record-breaking UK sales success in 2016, completing a total of 177,566 customer deliveries by year-end and therefore improving upon its 2015 full year performance by 6.4 per cent.

Total UK market share at the end of 2016 for the premium brand also rose by 0.3 per cent to 6.6 per cent.

Globally, AUDI AG increased its sales to around 1,871,350 cars in 2016, 3.8 percent more than in the previous record-breaking year 2015.

During the ongoing, wide-ranging renewal of the model range, sales increased in all core regions: in Europe (+7.6%), in North America (+5.3%) with further growth in the plateaued U.S. market (+4%) and in Asia-Pacific (+0.5%).

In all five of its largest individual markets, the four rings sold more automobiles than ever before. Worldwide, demand increased for the seventh year in a row since 2009. Compared with 949,729 customers in 2009, the company almost doubled its market success over this period.

“2016 proved to be even more challenging for Audi than expected, with strong headwinds in many key markets. We managed to demonstrate the robust strength of our business with balanced growth around the globe,” says Dietmar Voggenreiter, Board Member for Sales and Marketing at AUDI AG.

“The excellent feedback for our latest automobiles shows that our model and technology initiative is paying off. This year we will further drive forward the comprehensive renewal of the Audi portfolio and successively roll out new models in the markets.”

The new Audi A4 was also launched in the overseas markets in 2016; its global sales expanded year-on-year by 7.6 percent to around 337,550 units. In Europe, where the model was already available throughout the full year, the A4 took the number one spot in its premium segment, up 25.7 percent to around 164,600 units sold. The update of Audi’s mid-size class is set to continue this year in international markets with the new A5 Coupé, following on from its European market introduction at the end of 2016. Moreover, 2017 will see the global launch of the new A5 Sportback, with the model also going on sale in the United States for the very first time.

The second generation of the full-size Q7 SUV completed its global market introduction in 2016, with sales up 43.6 percent to around 102,200 customers. As such, the Q7 doubled the average annual sales of its predecessor, achieving more than 100,000 deliveries per year for the first time ever. The new Q2 extends the popular SUV family from the four rings to a compact city format. Its European premiere in late 2016 generated high demand at Audi dealerships; more markets will follow in 2017. With the new Q5, the generation changeover for Audi’s top-selling SUV is also set to initiate this year.

The renamed Audi Sport GmbH provided another growth engine for Audi in 2016. As its flagship model, the new R8 accelerated by 31.8 percent to about 2,890 sports cars sold. The entire R and RS family exceeded the 20,000 unit mark for the first time with strong gains of 18 percent to around 20,200 automobiles.

Worldwide, Audi acquired the most new customers in 2016 in Europe, particularly with the new A4. Despite numerous political and economic uncertainties in the region, Audi sales grew by 7.6 percent to around 860,600 automobiles. Compared with 762,949 deliveries in 2014, the brand extended annual sales on its home continent by just under 100,000 units within two years.

Most recently, Audi achieved record-breaking figures across the board in its four largest European markets: In Germany (+8.6% to 293,307 cars), the United Kingdom (+6.4% to 177,566 cars), France (+8.5% to 65,362 cars) and Italy (+15.5% to 62,430 cars), more customers than ever before opted for the four rings in 2016. Up 16.4 percent to 51,879 units sold, Spain achieved the highest growth of all Audi’s global top markets. By contrast, the ongoing market downturn in Russia had a negative impact as local Audi sales fell for the third year, with 20,706 deliveries and a drop of 19.3 percent.

In the United States, Audi once again outperformed the clearly decelerating overall market, as it had done in previous years. Audi was the only major premium manufacturer to post substantial growth in 2016: up 4 percent to 210,213 units. The Q7 provided strong momentum for Audi of America: following the U.S. launch of its new generation in the spring, 2016 sales of the model increased in its largest market by 60.9 percent to 30,563 SUVs. Across all Q models, SUV sales soared by 18.9 percent to 100,161 units. Audi Canada (+14.2% to 30,544 cars) also capitalized on the SUV trend, moving up into the ten largest markets of the four rings for the first time. Volatile conditions in several South American markets proved much more difficult – sales in Brazil fell by 29.9 percent to 12,011 automobiles, following the strong growth for Audi seen in 2015.

In China, Audi increased its sales on a very high level by another 3.6 percent to 591,554 deliveries. With this new all-time high, the company continues to maintain its clear lead in the Chinese premium market. In 2016, the four rings saw demand surge in the premium compact segment in particular: up 29.7 percent to 89,213 Audi A3 models plus 89,779 Q3 models, 27.6 percent more than in 2015. Today, Audi is conquering especially young customers with these models, after back in 2013 the company pioneered local production in this then-nascent segment of the Chinese premium market. In the past year too, Audi laid important foundations in China for its ongoing success in the market: 2016 saw the launch of successors or redesigned versions of models that together account for over half of Audi’s total sales in China. The new long-wheelbase A4 L went on sale in dealerships in the fall. At the end of the year, the locally produced A6 L e-tron plug-in hybrid set an important milestone in the electrification of the brand’s Chinese model range. This year, the Q7 e-tron is set to follow as an import model.

Sales for AUDI AG	In December			In the full year
	2016	2015	Change from 2015	2016	2015	Change from 2015
World	157,450	158,429	-0.6%	1,871,350	1,803,246	+3.8%
Europe	65,500	57,644	+13.7%	860,600	799,940	+7.6%
- Germany	17,654	17,087	+3.3%	293,307	270,063	+8.6%
- UK	11,219	9,003	+24.6%	177,566	166,817	+6.4%
- France	5,386	5,355	+0.6%	65,362	60,216	+8.5%
- Italy	5,074	3,575	+41.9%	62,430	54,054	+15.5%
- Spain	3,804	2,886	+31.8%	51,879	44,587	+16.4%
USA	23,195	20,399	+13.7%	210,213	202,202	+4.0%
Mexico	1,700	1,516	+12.1%	15,330	14,147	+8.4%
Brazil	554	1,309	-57.7%	12,011	17,130	-29.9%
China (incl. Hong Kong)	51,514	60,197	-14.4%	591,554	570,889	+3.6%

↧

END OF YEAR - RENAULT - 13.3% growth for the French brand is way above word growth figures.

January 25, 2017, 1:42 am

≫ Next: The Range Rover in two minutes, 4 generations from work horse, to luxury and far more.

≪ Previous: END OF YEAR - AUDI - Globally and the UK both set show sales gains, with the UK posting Record sales.

RECORD SALES FOR GROUPE RENAULT, UP 13.3% TO 3.18 MILLION VEHICLES IN 2016 FOR THE LAST YEAR OF THE RENAULT DRIVE THE CHANGE

Record year-on-year increase of 374,000 units (13.3%), up to 3.18 million vehicles sold in 2016.
Record year for Renault, top French brand worldwide, and Dacia, and Renault Samsung Motors volumes up by 38.8%.
Market share up in all regions: Renault brand number-two in Europe, while the Alliance is the number-two automotive group.
Sustained growth ambitions for Renault in 2017, with young product range, new releases, and international development.

WORLD SALES RECORD

Under the impetus of the Drive the Change plan, sales are on the rise for the fourth year running, making Groupe Renault the number-one French automotive group worldwide, with 3,182,625 vehicles registered in 2016.

Groupe Renault worldwide passenger car and light commercial vehicle sales rose by 13.3% in 2016, against 4.6% for the market as a whole.

The group’s share of the world automotive market stands at 3.5% (up 0.3 points vs 2015). Both Renault and Dacia brands have registered record sales. Renault keeps its position as the world’s leading French brand. Renault Samsung Motors sales rose by 38.8%.

The group continued to benefit from buoyant conditions on the European automotive market (up 7% on 2015), with registrations up 11.8% to 1,805,290, for a market share of 10.6%.

Outside Europe, Groupe Renault achieved record sales in 2016, up 15.3% on 2015 against growth of 5.2% on the market as a whole. Volumes and market shares were up in all regions.

“In 2016 we sold 3.18 million vehicles worldwide, setting a new sales record. Our strategy of product range renewal and geographic expansion, under way for several years now, has proven to be successful. It enables the Groupe Renault to progress significantly in terms of volume and market share in each region.” notes Thierry Koskas, member of the Executive Committee and Group Executive VP for sales & marketing.

RENAULT SECOND BRAND IN EUROPE

In Europe, Groupe Renault’s market share (passenger cars and light commercial vehicles) rose by 0.5 points to 10.6%. Registrations rose by 11.8% to 1,805,290. Sales were up in all the countries in the region.

Sales were up again for the Renault brand, which becomes Europe’s second biggest automotive brand. With 1,390,280 vehicle registrations (up 12.1% on 2015), Renault’s market share rose 0.4 points on 2015 to reach 8.1%.

On the passenger car market, Renault’s market share rose more than any other brand in Europe, by 0.4 points. It is mainly due to the successful product range renewal programme including Espace, Talisman and the Mégane family. New Scénic got off to a good start, with more than 19,000 orders in its first quarter on the market.

Renault kept its leadership in B-segment city cars, owing to successful showings from Clio and Captur, which heads its segment at 215,670 units.

On the European light commercial vehicle market, Renault brand sales rose 9.9% to reach 296,187 vehicles, for a market share of 14.8%.

After eleven years on the European market, Dacia brand sales were again up in 2016 (by 10.8%), at a record 415,010 registrations.

The Renault brand stays at the top of the European electric vehicles market, with sales up by 11 % at 25,648 units (excluding Twizy). ZOE heads the electric passenger car ranking with 21,735 registrations (up 16%) and Kangoo Z.E. the electric light commercial vehicle market with 3,901 vehicles sold.

In France, Groupe Renault achieved its best sales performance in five years. Renault widened its lead as France’s leading automotive brand, with a 22.3% of the passenger car and light commercial vehicle market, while Dacia sales hit a record high of 112,000 units, ranking fourth for sales to private motorists.

INTERNATIONAL GROWTH

Despite uneven economic situations across the globe, Groupe Renault strengthened its positions to increase its market share in all regions. Again, its product range renewal programme bore fruit, with Kwid in India, QM6 and SM6 in Korea, Kaptur in Russia, Koleos in China, Megane Sedan in Turkey and Oroch in Latin America.

In the Africa / Middle East / India region, Groupe Renault registrations rose by 36.4%, giving a market share of 6.2% (up 1.7 points).

In India, Renault kept its position as best-selling European automotive brand, with sales up by 145.6%. Kwid registrations totalled 105,745. India rose five places to become the group’s eighth biggest market worldwide.

In Iran, sales boomed by 110.7% to give Groupe Renault an 8.4% market share, up 3.7 points on 2015. The group has reclaimed its position as a major player on the Iranian market, doubling its market share in a single year thanks to successful performance from Tondar and Sandero.

In North Africa, Groupe Renault holds a 38.5% market share, up by 4.9 points. In Algeria, its market share reached a record 51.3% in 2016, up by 15.7 points, benefiting from local production of Symbol.

In Morocco, where Dacia and Renault hold first and second places respectively, Groupe Renault registrations rose by 22.5%, with record sales yielding a market share of 37.8%.

In the Eurasia region, registrations rose by 2.3% despite market shrinkage of 6.3%. Market share rose accordingly, by 1.1 points to 13.0%, largely driven by strong performance with record sales in Turkey (up 4.4%). New Mégane Sedan got off to a good start, with orders topping 13,200 in the first two months.

Sales growth in most of the countries in the region offset the impact of the economic crisis in Russia, where the market collapsed by 10.8%. Renault was able to contain the decline in its sales here at 2.6%, to achieve a record market share of 8.2%, up by 0.7%, chiefly owing to successful performance from Kaptur, which sold more than 14,600 units since it was launched in June.

In the Americas region, Groupe Renault sales rose by 0.1% despite market shrinkage of 4.1%, holding up well to the economic difficulties with a market share of 6.5%, up by 0.3 points.

In Brazil, market share rose by 0.2 points to a record 7.5%, on a market that slipped back 19.8% thanks to the successful performance of Duster Oroch. In 2017, the group will benefit of its brand new SUV range with Captur, Kwid and New Koleos as well as the arrival of Alaskan. The Renault brand continues to reap the benefits of pickup on the Argentinian market, with registrations up by 24.8% against growth of 9.1% in the market as a whole. In Colombia, sales volume and market share hit records (21.3%).

In the Asia Pacific region, Renault Samsung Motors sales rose 38.8% in South Korea despite the 0.3% shrinkage of the market: the market share was up 1.7 points at 6.2% thanks to the successful launches of SM6 and QM6 in 2016. QM6 orders reached 21,000 in just four months.

In China, following release of Kadjar, the first vehicle made locally by the Dongfeng Renault joint venture, Renault sales rose by 50.8% against market growth of 14.0%. New Koleos orders approached 10,000 in just two months.

GROUPE RENAULT SALES OUTLOOK FOR 2017

In 2017, the global market is expected to grow by 1.5% to 2% compared with 2016. The European market is also expected to increase by 2%, with a 2% increase also for France.

At the International level, the Brazilian and Russian markets are expected to become stable. China shall grow by 5% and India by 8%.

Groupe Renault should continue to reap the benefit of product range renewal in Europe, and of the strong dynamic on international markets, with Kwid in India, Koleos and Kadjar in China, Kaptur in Russia, QM6 and SM6 in South Korea, and Alaskan plus the SUV range in Latin America.

Groupe Renault therefore expects a sustained growth in sales volumes and market shares in Europe and in the international markets.

↧

The Range Rover in two minutes, 4 generations from work horse, to luxury and far more.

January 25, 2017, 1:45 am

≫ Next: The largest MINI yet, the Countryman, receives the John Cooper Works treatment,

≪ Previous: END OF YEAR - RENAULT - 13.3% growth for the French brand is way above word growth figures.

New animation celebrates Range Rover’s enduring design and innovation over almost five decades
Trip through the generations begins with 1969 Velar prototype and concludes with 2017 Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic
Range Rover has introduced numerous first-to-market technologies, including electronic traction control and automatic electronic air suspension
Range Rover is the original luxury SUV, epitomising the best of British design

Two minutes is not long, but it’s enough time for Land Rover to celebrate a motoring icon. The Range Rover has pioneered design, refinement and engineering innovation since 1970 and Land Rover has showcased the evolution of its luxury SUV through four generations with a unique animation lasting only 120 seconds.

The specially commissioned visual has been created to mark key dates in the history of the legendary SUV, as production of the original two-door model ended 23 years ago this month (January) and SVAutobiography Dynamic goes on sale around the world.

The detailed animation shows how today’s Range Rover retains many of the design hallmarks established by the 1970 Classic and culminates with the latest derivative, SVAutobiography Dynamic.

Range Rover has evolved into the world’s most elegant and sophisticated SUV, achieving more than one million sales (1.7 million to date) along the way. Trademark features including its ‘floating’ roof, distinctive clamshell bonnet, continuous belt line and practical split tailgate all pay homage to the groundbreaking original.

The Range Rover story begins with the 26 pre-production models, which wore Velar badges in an effort to hide its identity – velare means to ‘veil’ or ‘cover’ in Italian – made up of letters from the ‘ALVIS’ and ‘ROVER’ badges that usually adorn the front and rear of a vehicle. Next comes the timeless Range Rover Classic two-door as the images showcase successive generations, finishing with the most powerful derivative, the 550PS SVAutobiography Dynamic built by Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division.

Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Chief Design Officer, said: “Range Rover has, over time, achieved iconic design status through a progressive evolution of its unique DNA, culminating in a vehicle of peerless distinction. From its sense of evolution and sophisticated sensibilities inherent in its interior design to its understated yet powerful exterior proportions, Range Rover stands alone. There's simply nothing else like it.”

When it was first launched in 1970, Range Rover was one of the first vehicles to deliver permanent all-wheel drive while many others were still selectable. In 1971 the original model was cited as ‘an exemplary work of industrial design’ when it became the first vehicle to be displayed at the world-famous Louvre museum in Paris and it has been at the forefront of design and engineering innovation ever since.

The four-door variant was introduced in 1981, quickly followed by the first application of an automatic transmission in Range Rover in 1982. In 1989 the luxury SUV was the first 4x4 to be fitted with anti-lock brakes (ABS) and in 1992 it became the first SUV in the world fitted with electronic traction control and automatic electronic air suspension.

The engineering firsts continued in 2012, when Range Rover was the world’s first all-aluminium SUV. More recently, in 2014, the luxury SUV was the first vehicle to employ Land Rover’s advanced semi-autonomous All-Terrain Progress Control (ATPC) technology, effectively an off-road cruise control for autonomous control of speed on all terrains.

The last model included in the animation, the SVAutobiography Dynamic, shares its V8 engine with the acclaimed Range Rover Sport SVR and is specially calibrated to produce 680Nm of torque and 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in only 5.4 seconds. Interior enhancements including diamond quilted leather upholstery with contrast stitching deliver elevated refinement and desirability.

Since its launch 48 years ago Land Rover’s flagship has achieved more than 1,700,000 sales across the globe and earned a reputation as the ultimate luxury all-terrain vehicle. The legendary SUV’s unrivalled breadth of capability and elegance make it a favourite of royalty, business leaders, politicians and celebrities the world over.

Range Rover is designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK, and exported to more than 170 global markets.

The evolution of the Range Rover is visualised with the following models:

1969 Range Rover Prototype (Velar)
1970 Range Rover Classic (two-door)
1973 Range Rover Classic (Suffix C)
1981 Range Rover Classic (four-door)
1994 Second-generation Range Rover (P38a)
2001 Third-generation Range Rover
2012 Fourth-generation Range Rover
2014 Fourth-generation Range Rover Long Wheelbase
2015 Range Rover SVAutobiography
2016 Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic

↧

The largest MINI yet, the Countryman, receives the John Cooper Works treatment,

January 25, 2017, 1:47 am

≫ Next: Singapore’s first hypercar, the all-electric Dendrobium concept, will make its global debut at this March’s Geneva Motor Show.

≪ Previous: The Range Rover in two minutes, 4 generations from work horse, to luxury and far more.

The largest MINI yet receives the John Cooper Works treatment, offering powerful performance and versatility
231hp enables a 0-62mph time of just 6.5 seconds
MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive system fitted and sports suspension as standard
High quality standard specification includes MINI Navigation, LED headlights and Comfort Access
New touch-screen MINI Navigation XL available as an option
MINI Connected: the digital personal mobility assistant advises and informs on departure times based on calendar entries and traffic data
MINI Connected detects frequently driven routes and remembers them automatically
Presented in public for the first time in April at Shanghai Motor Show
MINI John Cooper Works Countryman market launch in Spring 2017

As the biggest and most versatile model in the MINI range featuring the brand’s most powerful engine to date, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman combines race track feeling and useful versatility on and off the road.

With an output of 231 hp working with MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman sprints from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds whether the customer chooses the standard 6-speed manual transmission or the optional 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission.

The resulting vehicle is a based on John Cooper Works racing expertise. From the engine and ALL4 drive system to the upgraded sports suspension with 18-inch John Cooper Works Grip Spoke alloy wheels and Brembo sports brake system, the John Cooper Works racing influence is evident throughout the model’s build and design.

Special exterior body features highlight the vehicle’s sporty credentials, and optimise aerodynamic properties, whilst inside the vehicle features a model-specific cockpit and John Cooper Works sports seats.

The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman not only offers an exciting driving experience but with improved boot space and extra leg room over its predecessor it is both versatile and flexible.

More power, more space

With a power increase of 13hp compared to its predecessor, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman also offers enlarged external dimensions and a considerable increase in space, versatility and functionality.

The new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is 19 centimetres longer, 3 centimetres wider and has a wheelbase extension of 7.5 centimetres over the previous model, offering even more space across its five passenger seats. The luggage compartment can also be expanded as required from 450 litres to as much as 1,390 litres.

Engine: power delivery and sound with racing character.

The 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine installed at the front of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman demonstrates performance characteristics inspired by motor racing. It has a specific version of MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology with a turbocharging system integrated in the cast steel manifold, petrol direct injection, the fully variable valve control system VALVETRONIC and variable camshaft control (double VANOS). Made of highly temperature-resistant material, the turbocharger generates a charge-air pressure which is now increased to 2.2 bar. The engine puts its maximum torque of 350 Newton metres on stream at between 1,450 and 4,500 rpm. It delivers its peak output of 231 hp within an engine speed range of 5 000 and 6 000 rpm.

The new John Cooper Works Countryman features specially developed components for John Cooper Works models, including specific pistons, a large charge-air cooler and an additional radiator. In addition there is a sports exhaust system that not only supports the engine’s performance characteristics but also gives them an impressive acoustic and visual dimension. Reduced exhaust gas pressure promotes spontaneous power delivery, while a controllable exhaust flap and the special geometry of the tailpipe help generate the recognisable John Cooper Works sound. The sports exhaust system also has tapered chrome covers for the dual tailpipes.

6-speed manual transmission as standard, 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission as an optional extra.

The standard 6-speed manual transmission is weight-optimised in design as well as exhibiting a high level of internal efficiency and shift comfort. A gear sensor enables active engine speed adaptation for fast gear changes. Short shifts and the model-specific gear lever knob facilitate precise gear selection. An 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission is also available as an option. Gears can be changed automatically or manually via the shift paddles at the steering wheel. It offers particularly short shift times and a Launch Control function enables the quickest possible acceleration from standing.

This also has a positive impact on efficiency. With the standard manual transmission, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman has a combined fuel consumption of 38.2 mpg and a CO₂ emissions level of 169 grams per kilometre. In conjunction with the 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission, these figures are reduced to 40.9 mpg and 158 grams respectively (provisional EU test cycle figures).

From the dirt road to the race track with ALL4.

Thanks to the MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive system, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman offers high performance on a variety of surfaces. The ALL4 system not only improves traction on unsurfaced terrain such as dirt roads, but also enhances ride stability in adverse weather conditions and improves agility when taking bends at speed. The system’s electronic control unit is linked to the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ensuring a consistently fast and precise response at all times in distributing the drive torque between the front and rear wheels.

The current version of the ALL4 all-wheel drive system offers a particularly efficient form of variable power distribution due to its compact and weight-optimised design. It consists of a power take-off bevel gear on the front axle differential, a dual-section propeller shaft and a rear axle differential with an electrohydraulically controlled hang-on clutch. In order to reduce the torque loss that occurs when drive power is transferred to the rear axle, the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman uses active DSC with the brand’s characteristic front-wheel drive in normal situations on the road. Torque is driven to the rear wheels only when necessary and within a fraction of a second.

Sports chassis for maximum agility when sprinting on bends and during braking manoeuvres.

The high-quality suspension technology of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman offers the perfect basis for maximum performance and excellent handling, with its high powered engine working alongside its specially designed long wheelbase, large track and low centre of gravity. A single-joint spring strut axle at the front is combined with a multilink rear axle. In addition, the standard sports suspension of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman features a particularly tight set-up of the suspension and damping systems. The speed-related Servotronic steering support – which is also offered as standard – provides excellent handling on bends and comfortable manoeuvring at low speeds.

The sports brake system was designed in collaboration with specialist manufacturer Brembo and comprises 4-piston fixed-caliper disc brakes on the front wheels, guaranteeing consistently high deceleration rates even under intense use. The brake calipers are finished in red and bear the John Cooper Works logo at the front. The Dynamic Stability Control system also ensures optimum traction on sprints, agility on bends and safe deceleration. Its functions include Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) – which acts as an electronic locking function for the front axle differential – and Performance Control for agile turning when taking bends at speed. The standard trim also includes 18-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels in Black Thrill Spoke. John Cooper Works light alloy wheel in 19-inch is optionally available.

MINI Driving Modes and Dynamic Damper Control enable an individualised vehicle set-up.

MINI Driving Modes enables the driver to select a set-up that is geared towards the situation on the road and their own personal preferences. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever is used to select the preferred settings - SPORT, MID and GREEN. This influences the characteristic curves of the accelerator pedal and steering, the engine acoustics, the shift characteristics of the 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission, if the latter is fitted, and the Dynamic Damper Control set-up.

Exterior: versatile and athletic

With a length of 4,299 millimetres, a width of 1,822 millimetres and a height of 1,557 millimetres, model-specific John Cooper Works features are clearly visible on the exterior. These include the John Cooper Works Aerodynamics Kit and large cooling inlets in the front apron. The standard roof rails and the model-specific roof spoiler offer an aerodynamic finish to the model’s exterior.

Interior: a characteristic sports car atmosphere

Inside the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman there are five fully fledged John Cooper Works sports seats which have integrated headrests, the John Cooper Works sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons, the John Cooper Works gear or selector lever and the roof liner in anthracite for a racing car feel to the interior.

Head, shoulder and leg room are significantly more generous than in the predecessor model, both at the front and the rear. In addition, as an optional extra the rear seats can be shifted by up to 13 centimetres in a 60 : 40 split, while additional versatility is provided by backrest elements that are tilt-adjustable and foldable in a 40 : 20 : 40 split. The unique Picnic Bench, a flexible surface that folds out of the luggage compartment and provides seating for two people, is available as an option. Also available as an option is an electric tailgate control that allows touchless opening and closing in conjunction with the standard Comfort Access.

Exclusive standard and optional equipment

The exclusive standard and optional equipment available with the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman means it stands out from the crowd. Standard equipment includes LED headlamps with cornering function and daylight driving light, cruise control with brake function and the 6.5” Colour MINI Visual Boost display including MINI Navigation, USB socket and Bluetooth. Comfort Access, Anthracite Headlining, MINI Driving Modes and Rear Park Distance Control are also offered as standard with MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.

Modern driver assistance systems, high-quality options for comfort and individual style.

The driver assistance systems developed for the MINI range enhance comfort and safety in the new John Cooper Works Countryman, too. The standard collision warning with city braking function can be extended to include the Driving Assistant system with camera-based active cruise control, pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection. Park Distance Control features sensors at the rear as standard, with other features such as front parking sensors, rear view camera and Parking Assistant optionally available. The optional Head-Up Display can display can inform the driver on all sorts of information, including road speed, speed limits and overtaking bans, navigation directions and Check Control messages, feedback from the driver assistance systems, telephone contacts and entertainment controls. The Head-Up display features a specific John Cooper Works mode where it is also possible to display the currently selected gear and a multi-coloured engine speed scale.

Other options available for the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman include a panorama glass roof, 2-zone automatic air conditioning, seat heating for driver and front passenger, windscreen heating and folding exterior mirrors.

Central instrument with touchscreen, MINI Find Mate and MINI County Timer.

The MINI Navigation XL with an 8.8-inch colour screen in the central instrument and the new recently introduced touch screen functionality is included in the newly enhanced Media Pack. Also included in the pack is MINI Find Mate, one of the latest digital services to be added to MINI Connected. MINI Find Mate uses wireless tracking function which enables objects to be tracked and located via MINI Connected.

The MINI Country Timer, which registers all travel over sloping, uneven, unsurfaced or snow-covered roads and tracks is offered as standard along with MINI Navigation. The duration and intensity of driving on demanding terrain is displayed in typical MINI style on the central instrument screen.

Other optional extras include Harman Kardon hi-fi system, which is available on its own or as part of the MINI Tech Pack which also includes rear-view camera, MINI Head-up Display and Media Pack X.

MINI Connected, the digital personal mobility assistant.

Going beyond the familiar functions of an in-car infotainment program, MINI Connected acts as a personal mobility assistant in the new John Cooper Works Countryman. Based on a flexible platform, the Open Mobility Cloud, MINI Connected integrates the vehicle seamlessly into the MINI driver’s digital life via devices such as the Apple iPhone and Apple Watch.

Thanks to the integral concept of MINI Connected, mobility doesn’t just start in the vehicle. MINI Connected informs the driver of the best departure time based on calendar entries and current traffic data. Address data and appointments saved by the driver previously on a smartphone via MINI Connected are automatically transferred to the car and do not have to be entered in the navigation system again. MINI Connected can also save regularly visited places as favourite destinations, and it detects frequently covered routes such as the daily run between home and work and alerts the driver in the event of unexpected traffic delays.

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Singapore’s first hypercar, the all-electric Dendrobium concept, will make its global debut at this March’s Geneva Motor Show.

January 25, 2017, 1:51 am

≫ Next: The 10th Generation Honda Civic gets a higher than average residual value as they release its pricing.

≪ Previous: The largest MINI yet, the Countryman, receives the John Cooper Works treatment,

Singapore’s first hypercar, the all-electric Dendrobium concept, will make its global debut at this March’s Geneva Motor Show
High performance zero emission two-seater comes from Singapore electric mobility experts Vanda Electrics
Vanda Electrics’ technical partner is Williams Advanced Engineering, the technology and engineering services division of the Williams Group
Dendrobium will feature advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composite structures and electric powertrain development
Its interior will boast the world’s lowest carbon leather from Bridge of Weir Leather Company
Further details will be revealed in the coming months

A fully electric revolution is heading to this year’s Geneva Motor Show in the shape of the Dendrobium, Singapore’s first-ever hypercar.

Making its global debut on March 7^th, the high performance two-seater concept is the brainchild of Singapore electric mobility experts Vanda Electrics and mixes striking design with the latest in e-powertrain development.

Dendrobium’s high-tech componentry will be clothed in a remarkable body featuring an automatic roof and doors, which open in a synchronized, theatrical manner, resembling a fully-opened dendrobium flower, a genus of orchids native to Singapore.

Vanda Electrics has engaged Williams Advanced Engineering, the technology and engineering services division of the Williams Group – which also includes Williams Martini Racing – as its technical partner to build the Dendrobium concept and assist in future project development. The division specialises in race-bred aerodynamics, composites, batteries and electric drivetrains.

The interior of the Dendrobium will feature the finest Scottish leather from Bridge of Weir Leather Company, which sources the best hides from the best heritage breeds and has adopted the very latest technology. The result is the lowest carbon tannery and leather product in the world.

Marking the latest step in Vanda Electrics’ global strategy to revolutionise zero emissions vehicles, the Dendrobium follows on from a commercial vehicle (http://vandaelectrics.com/pro-anttruck) and e-scooter (http://motochimp.com). Further Dendrobium details will be revealed in the coming months.

Vanda Electrics CEO Larissa Tan, explained: “Dendrobium is the first Singaporean hypercar and the culmination of Vanda Electrics’ expertise in design and technology. We are delighted to be working with Williams Advanced Engineering, world-leaders in aerodynamics, composites and electric powertrains and Bridge of Weir Leather Company, makers of the finest, lowest-carbon leather in the world. The Dendrobium is inspired by nature and rooted in technology, a marriage of design and engineering – I can’t wait to reveal the car to the world in March.”

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The 10th Generation Honda Civic gets a higher than average residual value as they release its pricing.

January 25, 2017, 1:53 am

≫ Next: Citroën has been voted ‘Best Family Car Brand’ in the 2017 Mumii Family Awards.

≪ Previous: Singapore’s first hypercar, the all-electric Dendrobium concept, will make its global debut at this March’s Geneva Motor Show.

All-new Civic given highly competitive residual value forecast by experts
RVs 9% higher than previous generation model
Figures come weeks after HR-V and Jazz exceeded RV predictions
All-new Honda Civic on sale from late March, priced from £18,235

Honda UK has today announced both residual values and a full pricing list for the 10^th generation Civic, which is set to hit dealer forecourts in late March.

Starting from £18,235 on the road for the entry level S grade 129PS VTEC TURBO in manual, the range tops out at £27,480 on the road for the 182PS VTEC TURBO Prestige with a CVT transmission. Metallic paint is an option and adds £525 to the price.

With the arrival of the new 10^th generation Civic and in line with the current trend towards smaller, more efficient powertrains, Honda has launched two new petrol engines; a 1.0 litre three cylinder which produces 129PS and a more powerful 1.5 litre four cylinder which delivers 182PS.

And as well as pricing, Honda has also released residual values for the new Civic ahead of its UK launch. The hotly anticipated Civic has received a further boost with residual values predicted to be among the best in its class.

Industry experts and residual value setters CAP forecast the British-built 10^th generation Civic will hold up to 37% of its value after 36 months and 60,000 miles.

That’s an impressive increase of 9% on the previous generation Civic and puts the newcomer well ahead of many of its key competitors.

The news comes just weeks after CAP predicted two of Honda’s newest and most popular models – the stylish Jazz city car and acclaimed HR-V crossover – would outperform all forecasts and achieve market-leading residual value levels.

And it underlines the confidence the automotive industry has in the reliability, value for money and desirability of Honda’s model line-up.

Phil Webb, Head of Cars at Honda UK, said: “As a brand we are making big strides in improving residual values across our range. This will make our cars even more affordable and lower the total cost of ownership for private and business buyers.

“The launch of the advanced and sporty new Civic is a major milestone for Honda in the UK and so we are delighted that CAP agree with our own assessment of this fantastic new car.”

Pricing for the all-new 10^th generation Civic is as follows:

Engine	Grade	Transmission	CO₂ g/km	VED band	VED first year rate	OTR pricing
129PS VTEC Turbo	S (Homologation)	Man	110	B	£0	£18,235
129PS VTEC Turbo	SE	Man	110	B	£0	£18,335
129PS VTEC Turbo	SR	Man	117	C	£0	£20,180
129PS VTEC Turbo	EX	Man	117	C	£0	£23,040
129PS VTEC Turbo	EX w/ Tech pack	Man	117	C	£0	£23,640
129PS VTEC Turbo	S (Homologation)	CVT	106	B	£0	£19,635
129PS VTEC Turbo	SE	CVT	106	B	£0	£19,735
129PS VTEC Turbo	SR	CVT	114	C	£0	£21,580
129PS VTEC Turbo	EX	CVT	114	C	£0	£24,440
129PS VTEC Turbo	EX w/ Tech pack	CVT	114	C	£0	£25,040
182PS VTEC Turbo	Sport	Man	133	E	£130	£22,470
182PS VTEC Turbo	Sport Plus	Man	133	E	£130	£25,335
182PS VTEC Turbo	Prestige	Man	133	E	£130	£26,085
182PS VTEC Turbo	Sport	CVT	139	E	£130	£23,870
182PS VTEC Turbo	Sport Plus	CVT	139	E	£130	£26,730
182PS VTEC Turbo	Prestige	CVT	139	E	£130	£27,480

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Citroën has been voted ‘Best Family Car Brand’ in the 2017 Mumii Family Awards.

January 26, 2017, 1:56 am

≫ Next: The new MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model to be launched in the brand’s 57-year history.

≪ Previous: The 10th Generation Honda Civic gets a higher than average residual value as they release its pricing.

Citroën has been voted ‘Best Family Car Brand’ in the 2017 Mumii Family Awards. Families across the UK voted for Citroën as the overall Gold winner thanks to the brand’s extensive range of ‘feel-good’ family cars.

Models such as the multi-award winning Grand C4 Picasso stood out for their market-leading comfort and practicality.

Citroën has been voted ‘Best Family Car Brand 2017’ by the British public in this year’s Mumii Family Awards. Mumii is the go-to space for busy mums to find fresh ideas and advice for important family decisions.

Citroën was particularly highly rated by Mumii.co.uk readers for their core attributes of comfort, practicality and affordability. Citroën’s modern and innovative New C4 Picasso range is targeted at families and the class-leading interior space makes both the 5 and 7-seat versions ideal for busy family life.

New C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso spearhead the introduction of the Citroën Advanced Comfort® programme, which delivers unrivalled levels of on-road comfort and will be rolled out across the entire Citroën range in the coming years.

Jo Studholme, Editor at Mumii, commented; “Here at Mumii, we were thrilled to see Citroën in this year's Mumii Family Awards, and even more thrilled to see it crowned as 'Best Family Car Brand 2017'. It was a closely fought contest in this category with some big names fighting for that all important Gold Award.

Buying a family car is an expensive and considered purchase, and so to be crowned Gold winner by families across the UK is a real achievement.”

Chris Cheetham, Citroën’s Marketing Director in the UK, said; “Since the very beginning, Citroën has maintained its on-going commitment towards producing ‘feel-good’ family cars.

One of our beliefs is that the best family car becomes part of the family and that’s why we put so much effort into designing great cars and MPVs. We are honoured to be awarded ‘Best Family Car Brand 2017’ by the people the cars are designed for. It’s the best praise we can get!”

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The new MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model to be launched in the brand’s 57-year history.

January 26, 2017, 1:59 am

≫ Next: Kia unveils European version of powerful new fastback sport sedan, The Stinger.

≪ Previous: Citroën has been voted ‘Best Family Car Brand’ in the 2017 Mumii Family Awards.

All-new Countryman enters the C-segment with increased dimensions, powerful proportions and rugged styling
Five full sized seats, with a clear increase in space and versatility and a premium cabin ambience
MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: the first ever MINI with plug-in hybrid drive
New generation of engines and gearboxes, ALL4 efficiency-optimised all-wheel drive system
High level of equipment – Satellite Navigation, Bluetooth, Emergency E-call and more, now standard on all models
Central instrument with a touchscreen function for the first time in a MINI
Electronic tailgate control as well as touch-free opening and closing of the tailgate
New, unique options, including MINI Picnic Bench: foldout loading sill cushion on the luggage compartment lid for outdoor use
Available to order now, MINI Cooper Countryman priced from £22,465. First customer deliveries in February 2017

The new MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model to be launched in the brand’s 57-year history. With its larger external dimensions, and increases in space throughout the cabin and luggage area, it offers occupants even greater comfort and a genuinely premium ambience.

Useful new features such as electric tailgate control with touch-free opening and unique options, including a fold down picnic bench at the rear, add to the ownership experience.

The Countryman’s on- and off-road ability is readily apparent throughout its design, which fuses familiar MINI styling with the tough look of a crossover thanks to the extended ground clearance, large wheel arches and short overhangs.

For the first time MINI is offering a plug-in hybrid model with the new MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4. Drawing from expertise gleaned from across the BMW Group, this new hybrid features a turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor, reducing fuel consumption to 134.5 mpg yet also enabling a 0-62 mph time of just 6.9 seconds.

The rest of the new MINI Countryman line-up is powered by an all-new range of engines sourced from the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo generation, offering outstanding performance and efficiency. With between 136 – 192 hp and 220 -400 Nm of torque, the new MINI Countryman can sprint from 0-62 mph in as little as 7.2 seconds, while fuel consumption reaches 64.2 mpg and C02 emissions drop as low as 113 g/km.

The new MINI Countryman is available with both manual and Steptronic gearboxes and with front- and all-wheel drive. The latter, MINI’s ALL4 system, has been further refined for increased driving agility and efficiency.

Reflecting customer demand for high-end features, equipment levels on the new MINI Countryman have been bolstered versus the outgoing model. Additions to the standard equipment list include MINI’s acclaimed Satellite Navigation System, Bluetooth, Cruise Control, Emergency E-call and Active Guard among others. Naturally, being a MINI, there is broad scope for owners to personalise their new Countryman, with extensive colour and trim options, advanced technology features and a range of option packs that offer carefully selected items with significant cost savings for the customer. One such option is a new 8.8” inch touchscreen display as part of the MINI Navigation System XL, offering touchscreen multimedia and navigation control for the first time in a MINI.

The new MINI Countryman is available to order at MINI retailers nationwide, with prices starting at £22,465 for the Cooper Countryman. First UK deliveries will be in February. Prices for the plug-in hybrid model will be announced in due course.

Model	HP	Trans	CO₂	0-62 mph	OTR
MINI Cooper Countryman	136	Man	126	9.6	£22,465
MINI Cooper Countryman	136	Aut	126	9.6	£23,960
MINI Cooper ALL4 Countryman	136	Man	139	9.8	£24,195
MINI Cooper ALL4 Countryman	136	Aut	136	9.8	£25,690
MINI Cooper D Countryman	150	Man	113	8.9	£24,425
MINI Cooper D Countryman	150	Aut	115	8.8	£26,020
MINI Cooper D ALL4 Countryman	150	Man	127	8.8	£26,025
MINI Cooper D ALL4 Countryman	150	Aut	126	8.7	£27,620
MINI Cooper S Countryman	192	Man	141	7.5	£24,710
MINI Cooper S Countryman	192	Aut	137	7.4	£26,410
MINI Cooper S ALL4 Countryman	192	Man	159	7.3	£26,350
MINI Cooper S ALL4 Countryman	192	Aut	146	7.2	£28,025
MINI Cooper SD Countryman	190	Aut	121	7.7	£27,965
MINI Cooper SD ALL4 Countryman	190	Aut	129	7.4	£29,565

Exterior Design: recognisably MINI with a powerful presence

The new MINI Countryman is some 20 centimetres longer than its predecessor and three centimetres wider, while its wheelbase has been extended by 7.5 centimetres. These enlarged proportions – making it the largest of any MINI on sale - form the basis of a new design that has both the unmistakable MINI aura and the additional presence borne from an extended ground clearance and specific off-road design details. For example, the standard-fit roof rails in satin-finished aluminium are combined with silver-coloured side sill tops, thereby lending greater visual emphasis to the car’s height. The familiar ‘floating roof’, large headlamps and hexagonal radiator grille are all present, albeit having undergone careful evolution. From the front, the headlamp units differ from other MINI models by having an asymmetric shape, with LED lighting now an option. And at the rear, the vertically arranged light units help create the family ‘look’.

Interior Design: more space, more versatility, more style

The interior ambience of the new MINI Countryman has been further improved by the creation of more space, an attractive design, and a new operating and vehicle display concept.

The hallmark MINI central instrument is integrated in the instrument panel and is surrounded by an LED ring that provides a lighting display in response to driving situations by way of feedback from the controls.

Both driver and front passenger benefit from extended head and shoulder space, while the adjustment range of the seats has also been extended. Electrical adjustment of the driver and front passenger seats is now an option, including a memory function on the driver's side.

The second row of seating now contains three fully-fledged seats, and the rear door openings have been enlarged, enabling easier entry and exit. In addition to overall interior width, leg space is now significantly more generous too, with an extra five centimetres of knee room over the previous model. The rear seats can be shifted back and forth by up to 13 cm, prioritising either passenger legroom or boot capacity depending on the situation. The folding rear backrest offers a 40 : 20 : 40 split and also provides a variable tilt angle so as to also offer either increased seating comfort or additional storage space at the rear.

The new model also benefits from more storage for on-board items and increased overall cargo capacity both with the seats in position and when lowered. In both the front and rear doors there are pockets that hold one-litre beverage bottles and the centre console extending up to the instrument panel has an integrated storage compartment and two cup holders in front of the gear or selector lever. The MINI Controller and the switch for the electrical parking brake are also positioned on the centre console.

The luggage compartment volume is 450 litres and can be extended by folding the rear seats to a total of 1,309 litres. This constitutes a maximum increase of 220 litres as compared to the previous generation model.

The luggage area can be accessed via an optional electric tailgate with touch-free opening and closing possible in conjunction with Comfort Access. The optional storage package comprises a variable load floor, lashing eyes and tension straps and also a stainless steel insert on the loading sill. One unique option is the Picnic Bench – a flexible surface that folds out of the luggage compartment and provides seating for two people.

Engine and transmission: new engines provide increased performance and efficiency

The new MINI Countryman is available at launch with a choice of four new engines: two petrol-powered variants and two diesels. In addition, for the first time there will be a plug-in hybrid MINI, the Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 (see below).

The new EU6-compliant MINI TwinPower Turbo engines are familiar from the other recent additions to the MINI family. The petrol engines, a 1.5-litre three-cylinder in the Cooper Countryman and a 2.0-litre four-cylinder in the Cooper S Countryman, feature turbocharging, direct fuel injection with centrally positioned injectors, variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side (double VANOS) and fully variable VALVETRONIC valve control technology.

The result is 136 hp and 220 Nm of torque in the Cooper, which enables a 0-62 mph time of 9.6 seconds and fuel consumption and emissions figures of 51.4 mpg/126 g/km. The Cooper S produces 192 hp with 280 Nm of torque, and completes the sprint to 62mph from rest in just 7.5 seconds, yet still manages 45.6 mpg with 141 g/km of C02 emitted.

The 2-litre diesel engines in the MINI Cooper D Countryman and MINI Cooper SD Countryman both also feature MINI TwinPower Turbo technology, with high pressure common rail injection. The 150 hp / 330 Nm engine in the Cooper D enables a very competitive 0-62 mph time of just 8.9 seconds (considerably quicker than the previous model) but with 64.2 mpg and 113 g/km of C02 emitted. The high performance Cooper SD Countryman features 190 hp and a full 400 Nm of toque, providing a 0-62mph sprint of just 7.7 seconds but with 61.4 mpg and 121 g/km of C02 emitted.

MINI Cooper Countryman: 3-cylinder petrol engine, capacity: 1 499 cc, output: 100 kW/136 hp, max. torque: 220 Nm.

MINI Cooper S Countryman: 4-cylinder petrol engine, capacity: 1 998 cc, output: 141 kW/192 hp, max. torque: 280 Nm.

MINI Cooper D Countryman: 4-cylinder diesel engine, capacity: 1 995 cc, output: 110 kW/150 hp, max. torque: 330 Nm.

MINI Cooper SD Countryman: 4-cylinder diesel engine, capacity: 1 995 cc, output: 140 kW/190 hp, max. torque: 400 Nm.

MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: MINI’s first plug-in hybrid

For the first time a MINI is available with a plug-in hybrid system, achieving outstanding performance with extremely low consumption and emissions. The new MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL 4 draws on the expertise in this area from across the BMW Group, including the range of BMW iPerformance vehicles.

A three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with MINI TwinPower technology, producing 136 hp and 220 Nm of torque, powers the front wheels of the Cooper S E Countryman. This engine is combined with a six-speed Steptronic transmission. The rear wheels are powered by a synchronous electric motor housed under the floor of the luggage compartment. This motor offers 88 hp and 165 Nm of torque, with all of the torque available from zero rpm. The motor’s output is sent to the rear axle via a two-stage single-speed transmission.

The lithium-ion battery is positioned directly in front of the electric motor underneath the rear seat. It is made up of five modules, each comprising 16 battery cells. Like the electric motor, the battery is produced at the Dingolfing plant, the BMW Group’s competence centre for eDrive technology. The high-voltage battery has a capacity of 7.6 kWh. At a wallbox with a charging capacity of 3.6 kW it can be fully charged in 2:15 hours, while charging at a regular household socket takes 3:15 hours. The intelligent energy management system, controlled by the power electronics of the plug-in hybrid system, ensures that the interplay between the combustion engine and the electric motor is optimised for both driving fun and efficiency in all situations. Using the power of the electric motor alone, the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is able to provide locally emissions-free driving, and in the event that more intense acceleration is required, the electric motor supports the combustion engine via a boost function. A total system output of 224 hp and a combined torque of 385 Newton metres are available, enabling 0-62 mph in just 6.9 seconds. Fuel consumption and C02 emissions are very low, with 134.5 mpg and 49 g/km respectively, and the Cooper S E Countryman can travel up to 25-miles on electric power alone.

Via the eDrive toggle switch, the driver can also influence control over the interaction of the power units. There are three operating modes: Auto, Max and Save Battery. In the standard setting AUTO eDRIVE, the vehicle runs on electrical power only up to a speed of 50 mph. At higher speeds and in the case of very intensive loads, the combustion engine is automatically enabled in addition. In MAX eDRIVE mode the vehicle is powered by the electric motor alone at speeds up to approximately 78 mph. Finally, the SAVE BATTERY mode can be selected so as to relieve the capacity of the high-voltage battery or raise its charge state to at least 90 per cent so that sufficient electrical power remains for locally emissions-free driving later on.

With route guidance activated on standard specification navigation system, MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 uses an anticipatory energy management system to ensures that appropriate sections of the route are run on electric power alone.

The high-voltage battery is housed underneath the slightly raised rear seat, as is the 35-litre fuel tank. When all seats are in use, the luggage compartment volume in the MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is only slightly less than in the conventionally powered models. The connection for the charging cable is under a flap in the area of the left-hand side scuttle.

This particular model is distinguishable by the model-specific “e” badge on the side scuttles, and also a yellow “S” in the model inscription on the rear as well as on the radiator grille and doorsill finishers. At the rear, a JCW aerodynamic rear bumper features a single exhaust outlet. Inside, the cockpit includes a yellow start/stop unit at the centre of the toggle switch panel and a performance display in the instrument cluster on the steering column.

The MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 comes as standard with the MINI Visual Boost Radio featuring a 6.5-inch colour screen in the central instrument. In addition to the MINI Country Timer, this also displays information such as the charge state of the high-voltage battery and operating mode of the hybrid drive selected by eDrive toggle switch. In conjunction with the optional Media package including MINI navigation system XL, operation is via an 8.8-inch screen with a new graphic design and touchscreen function as well as via the Touch Controller in the centre console.

MINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4: 3-cylinder petrol engine, capacity: 1 499 cc, output: 100 kW/136 hp, synchronous electric motor, output: 65 kW/88 hp, system output: 165 kW/224 hp, system torque: 385 Nm.

ALL4: improved version of MINI’s all-wheel drive system

MINI’s all-wheel drive system, ALL4, is available as an option on all engine variants. This latest version of the system not only reacts quickly and precisely to changing situations, it is also compact and offers a high level of internal efficiency. It consists of a power take-off unit integrated in the front axle differential, a propeller shaft leading to the rear axle and a hang-on clutch that ensures precisely measured transmission of the drive torque to the rear wheels. The system's electronic control is interconnected with the Dynamic Stability Control DSC, so it detects any need to adapt power distribution early on. In this way, ALL4 optimises both traction and stability in adverse weather and road surface conditions, as well as ensuring improved agility when driving through bends in a sporty manner.

Chassis: sophisticated chassis with adaptive technology

The advanced suspension of the new MINI Countryman combines the well-proven principle of a single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multilink rear axle with a design that is optimised for weight and rigidity as well as with a set up specific to this model. Servotronic steering, powerful brakes and Dynamic Stability Control DSC form part of a highly developed chassis package.

Dynamic Damper Control is an option: two program maps can be activated for the electronically controlled dampers via the likewise optional MINI Driving Modes. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever enables the driver to select a set-up according to one of the three modes - MID, SPORT and GREEN. This also influences the accelerator pedal and steering curve, the operating mode of electrically powered comfort features and the engine sound and shift characteristics of the Steptronic transmission, depending on engine and fittings.

Safety: driver assistance systems for improved safety

In addition to a strong but weight-optimised monocoque construction and a full complement of airbags, the standard and optional driver assistance systems are a key factor in improving occupant safety. The standard collision warning with city braking function can be extended to include the Driving Assistant system with camera-based active cruise control, pedestrian warning with initial brake function, high beam assistant and road sign detection. In addition to this, Park Distance Control, rear view camera, Parking Assistant and Head-Up-Display are also optionally available.

Equipment and options: build your perfect MINI Countryman with extensive options and packs

75% of customers who purchased the outgoing MINI Countryman model in the UK selected a Pepper, Chili or Sport pack for their vehicle. Reflecting customer demand for high-end features, MINI has significantly raised the level of standard equipment offered on the new Countryman, with many features previously included in the ‘Pepper’ pack on the outgoing MINI Countryman now offered as standard. Highlights include 16” alloy wheels on Cooper and Cooper D models, rear parking sensors (PDC), MINI Connected and Bluetooth connectivity. MINI Cooper S and Cooper SD Countryman models add 17” alloy wheels and cloth/leather upholstery. All models in the MINI Countryman range now benefit from Satellite Navigation as standard.

The standard entertainment system is the MINI Visual Boost Radio featuring a 6.5-inch colour display in the central instrument. Bluetooth hands-free telephone facility and satellite navigation are also both standard on the new MINI Countryman.

Options include the Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and the MINI navigation system XL, which comprises not just the Touch Controller on the centre console but also an 8.8-inch colour touchscreen in the central instrument with a new graphic design.

Another new feature offered as standard is the MINI Country Timer. This fun feature registers all travel over sloping, uneven, un-surfaced and snow-covered roads and tracks. As soon as the new MINI Countryman moves on demanding terrain, the type and extent of the challenge are detected and shown on the display in the central instrument by means of graphics. The driving situation is analysed based on data supplied by the control unit of the Dynamic Stability Control function. Owners can progress from the status of “Street Cruiser” to the “Cliff Champ” category, and the icon of the MINI on the display grows to be a MINI monster truck.

The program of optional equipment items further includes two-zone automatic air conditioning, a panorama glass roof and a tow hitch with removable ball head. Depending on the engine type, the permitted trailer load is between 1,500 - 1,800 kg.

The broad range of exterior paint finishes, seat upholstery types and interior surfaces enables individualisation of the new MINI Countryman in a way that reflects personal style. However, owners can choose to personalise their vehicles further with the aid of MINI’s option packs. These bring together a wealth of optional equipment but with a considerable cost saving compared to buying the items individually. The most popular of these is set to be the Chilli Pack, which for example enjoys a 75 per cent take up rate on the new MINI Clubman. The Chilli Pack includes automatic air conditioning, the MINI driving modes, sports seats (trimmed in part-leather or cloth/leatherette) and LED headlamps amongst a long list of items. The price of the pack is £2,980, but the saving for the customer is £1,150.

The JCW Chilli Pack (£4,950/£4,250 for ‘S’ models) includes all of the above plus items such as the JCW aerodynamics kit, sports suspension and 18” wheels. Its price depends on whether it’s fitted to a Cooper or Cooper S model. The Media Pack (£950) includes the MINI Navigation System XL, MINI Find Mate, MINI Connected XL and the Extended phone prep with wireless charging. Meanwhile, the MINI Yours Pack (£2,300/£1,825 for ‘S’ models) brings 19” alloy wheels, leather ‘Lounge’ seats, and a choice from three MINI Yours illuminated facia panels on the dashboard: Chestnut, British Oak or Piano Black. The MINI Teck Pack (£2,090) provides a rear view camera, Harman Kardon hi-fi, MINI Head-up display and the Media Pack XL contents. Finally, the MINI Activity Pack (£850) features the sliding rear seats, the picnic bench and the automatic tailgate amongst other items.

New from MINI Connected: personal mobility assistant and MINI Find Mate.

MINI Connected now goes beyond the familiar in-car infotainment functions to become a personal mobility assistant. Based on a flexible platform called the Open Mobility Cloud, MINI Connected integrates the vehicle seamlessly into the MINI driver’s digital life via touchpoints such as the Apple iPhone and Apple Watch.

At the heart of this connectivity lies MINI Connected, the personal mobility assistant available to MINI drivers with new innovative services as of October 2016. Here, individual mobility planning enables punctual, stress-free arrival at appointments. And mobility doesn’t start in the car: MINI Connected informs the driver of the optimum departure time based on calendar entries and current traffic data. Address data and appointments saved by the driver previously on a smartphone via MINI Connected are automatically transferred to the car and do not have to be entered in the navigation system again. MINI Connected can also save regularly visited places as favourite destinations and it detects frequently covered routes such as the daily run between home and work so as to be able to inform the driver in the event of unexpected traffic delays.

Another new feature in the area of connectivity is MINI Find Mate. This forms part of the Media pack and consists of so-called tags with a wireless tracking function that can be attached to frequently used objects and travel items such as bags, cases, key rings and rucksacks. MINI Find Mate is able to track the location of any such objects connected to the system that the driver wants to be sure not to forget: tracking is done not only on the on-board computer of the MINI Countryman but also on a smartphone. Providing there is a Bluetooth connection with the tag, an acoustic signal can be activated in the car or on the smartphone to help locate the object. If the tag is outside the Bluetooth range, the driver can be guided to the place at which a connection was last detected.

↧

Kia unveils European version of powerful new fastback sport sedan, The Stinger.

January 26, 2017, 2:02 am

≫ Next: Two exceptional motor cars will join the collection at the most anticipated hotel, THE 13.

≪ Previous: The new MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model to be launched in the brand’s 57-year history.

Kia unveils European version of powerful new fastback sport sedan
Three engines for Europe: 2.2 litre diesel and 2.0 and 3.3 litre petrol
Designed in Frankfurt, dynamics honed at the Nürburgring

Kia Motors has revealed the European specification of the Kia Stinger, a powerful new fastback sports sedan, following its global premiere at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit on 9 January.

The new Kia Stinger closely follows the design and engineering blueprint laid down by the 2011 Kia GT Concept, and will be the highest-performance production vehicle in the company’s history.

The Stinger channels the spirit of historic grand tourers – powerful, elegant vehicles capable of moving their owners in style, at speed. At every stage of development, the Stinger has been designed and engineered to be the perfect gran turismo.

The car features a head-turning aesthetic, ample room to accommodate five occupants and their luggage, a stable, unruffled ride, and nimble handling with engaging, rear-biased power delivery.

In its transition from concept to production, Kia’s GT Concept was renamed ‘Stinger’, inspired by the GT4 Stinger concept revealed at NAIAS 2014. While the car is a true GT in nature, the Stinger name evokes speed and excitement, two key characteristics found in the production car.

In Europe, the Stinger will be available with a choice of three engines: a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, a powerful 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6, and – announced for the first time – a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine.

The Stinger is the result of years of impassioned design and development work at Kia. Six years after the company revealed its powerful statement of intent in the GT Concept, the Stinger will enter production and go on sale in Europe during the fourth quarter of 2017.

Design

Turning a concept into a production car is no small feat. Kia’s European design studio in Frankfurt – birthplace of the 2011 GT concept – has brought the Stinger to life, overseen by Peter Schreyer, Chief Design Officer of Kia Motors, and Gregory Guillaume, Chief Designer at Kia Motors Europe.

Guillaume comments, “The Kia Stinger is a true gran turismo, a car for spirited long-distance driving. It’s not about outright power, hard-edged dynamics and brutal styling, all at the expense of luxury, comfort and grace. The Kia Stinger has nothing to do with being the first to arrive at the destination – this car is all about the journey. It’s about passion.”

From its sleek frontal section, through its svelte flanks, and up to its powerful haunches, the Stinger exudes a muscular confidence. Key to its road presence are its rear-wheel drive proportions – a long bonnet and short 830 mm front overhang, an extended wheelbase (2,905 mm) to deliver a spacious cabin, and a long rear overhang (1,095 mm) with strong, broad shoulders. The Stinger’s stance, proportion and visual balance are designed to lend the car an air of elegance and athleticism, rather than aggression and brutality. The Stinger measures 4,830 mm in length and 1,870 mm in width, making it longer and wider than many sport sedans, and allowing for a spacious cabin and cargo area.

The ‘Coke bottle’ shape of the car’s flanks highlight and enhance the visual power of the Stinger’s shoulder line, as well as its fastback silhouette. Other purely functional elements of the exterior design – the front air curtains, wheel arch gills, smooth underbody, and integrated rear diffuser – aid its aerodynamic efficiency. The rear valance houses four oval exhaust pipes. Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille sits proudly between complex LED headlamps.

External gran turismo visual cues are complemented by the layout and atmosphere of the low-slung cabin, with a steeply-raked windscreen and high dashboard running along a horizontal plane. The dashboard’s centre console is split into two specific areas: the infotainment controls sit neatly below a large colour touchscreen, while the climate and ventilation controls sit beneath. In front of the driver is a thick, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a single instrument binnacle with a combination of analogue and digital instrumentation. The large gauges are ringed in metal and accentuated with sweeping red needles. A colour TFT screen between the gauges relays performance data – such as cornering G-forces and lap times – along with ancillary information, including trip computer, driver settings, navigation and diagnostics.

Aeronautically-inspired spoked circular vents feature in the front and rear, while a strip of satin chrome encircles the cabin. The effect is a feeling of cocooned intimacy. However, the long wheelbase, four-door body, and fastback silhouette allow for generous front and rear leg room, and the low seating position provides ample head room for all passengers. Cossetting occupants in luxury, the Stinger’s deeply-contoured seats are available with ultra-soft Nappa leather, while the driver’s seat is available with air-cell bladders in the seatback and side bolsters for optimal support.

Engines and drivetrain

Under the long bonnet of the Kia Stinger is a choice of three longitudinally-mounted turbocharged engines, each in the final stages of tuning before entering production later in 2017. With turbochargers equipped across the engine line-up, the Stinger offers drivers effortless gran turismo-style high-speed cruising and instant acceleration when called upon by the driver, with all three engines providing high power and torque across a wide band of engine speeds.

Announced for the first time today, the engine anticipated to account for the majority of Stinger sales across Europe is a 2.2-litre turbodiesel. The 2.2-litre engine is capable of producing 200 ps at 3,800 rpm. Its maximum torque output – 440 Nm – is available to drivers across a wide 1,750-2,750 rpm range, enabling the car to accelerate from 0-to-100 kph in 8.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 225 kph.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder ‘Theta’ engine produces 255 ps at 6,200 rpm. Its maximum torque output – 353 Nm – is available from 1,400 to 4,000 rpm. The Stinger’s most powerful engine is a 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 ‘Lambda II’ petrol engine, with peak power of 370 ps arriving at 6,000 rpm, and 510 Nm torque accessible from 1,300 to 4,500 rpm. Stinger models powered by the 3.3-litre turbocharged engine can accelerate from 0-to-100 kph in just 5.1 seconds, making it the fastest-accelerating production Kia ever. With this engine, Kia is targeting a top speed of 270 kph.

The Stinger features the second-generation of Kia’s electronic eight-speed automatic transmission, which is fitted as standard with all engines. Designed in-house, the eight-speed transmission rewards drivers with immediate shifts and optimum fuel efficiency. More typically found in aviation and racing applications, the Stinger’s transmission marks Kia’s first use of a Centrifugal Pendulum Absorber (CPA) torque converter, reducing torsional vibrations through the drivetrain. The transmission offers up to five different shift and throttle programmes (as well as levels of steering assistance – see below), which drivers can select through the car’s electronic Drive Mode Select. Drivers can leave the car to shift for itself, or change gears with steering wheel-mounted paddles.

The Stinger is Kia’s first sedan to be available with either rear- or all-wheel drive – the latter offering enhanced dynamic capability in even the most challenging conditions. In its rear-wheel drive format, power is distributed throughout the rear axle by an optional mechanical limited slip differential. The rear-biased all-wheel drive system is equipped with Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control, which monitors driver inputs and road conditions, automatically applying power and braking force to the appropriate wheels to maintain course in the wet or dry.

Ride and handling

Kia has sought to create a car with driving dynamics that live up to its stunning design. To fulfil this brief, the Stinger’s ride and handling were honed at Germany’s infamous Nürburgring Nordschleife, under the watch of Albert Biermann, Head of Kia’s Vehicle Test and High Performance Development. A gran turismo by design and by nature, the Stinger’s test regime was established to make it capable of taking every kind of road in its stride.

Comprised of 55 percent Advanced High Strength Steel, the Stinger’s bodyshell provides an ultra-stiff foundation for the car’s suspension components, and contributes to reduced noise and vibration for a quiet cabin.

The MacPherson strut front suspension system has been tuned to optimise feedback to the driver, as well as maximise steering response and stability in all conditions. At the rear, a multi-link suspension setup aids handling responses, with a reinforced anti-roll bar for high stability and minimal body vibrations.

The Stinger also features an electronically-adjustable suspension system, Dynamic Stability Damping Control (DSDC). While always reacting predictably to the driver’s inputs, the system can be tuned via the Drive Mode Select depending on road conditions and driving style. DSDC can be used to firm or soften the front and rear dampers independently, for tailored ride, response and agility. Drivers can choose from five drive modes: Eco, Sport, Sport+, Comfort and Smart.

A variable ratio rack-mounted motor driven power steering system (R-MDPS) features an electric motor mounted directly on the steering rack, which affords more immediate responses and reduced vibration compared to systems with column-mounted motors. Steering assistance and weight is also adjustable via the Drive Mode Select system.

A choice of alloy wheels and high-performance tyres are also offered. 2.2-litre diesel models ride on 225/50R17 tyres as standard, and 2.0-litre gasoline models are fitted with 225/45 R18 tyres, while the 3.3-litre V6 is fitted with high-performance 225/40 R19 and 255/35 R19 tyres on the front and rear. 3.3-litre V6 Stinger models feature high-performance ventilated disc brakes from Brembo® as standard (350 mm at the front, 340 mm at the rear), with quad-piston front calipers and dual-piston rear calipers. 2.0-litre models are fitted with ventilated disc brakes – 345 mm at the front, 330 mm at the rear – while 2.2-litre diesel models are fitted with 320 ventilated disc brakes at the front and 315 mm solid disc brakes at the rear.

Safety

The Stinger will be available with Kia’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), under the brand’s DRIVE WiSE sub-brand. DRIVE WiSE embodies Kia’s philosophy to realise intelligently safe vehicles with active safety technologies that are designed to avoid or mitigate the effects of a collision.

The Stinger is equipped as standard with Kia’s Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), ensuring stability under braking and cornering by controlling the car’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) if it detects a loss of traction.

Other DRIVE WiSE features available include: Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking and pedestrian recognition; Advanced Smart Cruise Control; Lane Keeping Assist System; Rear Cross Traffic Alert; Surround View Monitoring System for low-speed manoeuvres; Blind Spot Detection; and High Beam Assist.

A new feature for Kia, the Stinger is also available with a Driver Attention Alert (DAA) system to combat distracted or drowsy driving. In Europe, driver fatigue is believed to be a key factor in up to a quarter of all fatal traffic accidents across the continent*, while the USA’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration conservatively estimates that 100,000 police-reported crashes are the direct result of driver fatigue each year. In the USA, this results in an estimated 1,550 deaths and 71,000 injuries annually**. The system monitors a number of inputs from the vehicle and the driver, and will sound a warning chime and display a graphic in the instrument binnacle if it senses a lapse in concentration from the driver.

Technology and features

The Stinger reflects Kia’s focus on offering the latest infotainment systems and driver technologies. A height-adjustable Head-Up Display (HUD) enables the driver to see key driving information reflected on the glass of the windscreen, including speed, turn-by-turn navigation guidance, audio, cruise control and Blind Spot Detection information. Resting within the centre console is a wireless smartphone charging pad, while Bluetooth integration is standard across the Stinger line-up.

Long distance travel is a hallmark of the gran turismo driving experience, and a trio of high-performance audio systems guarantee an immersive acoustic experience as the miles sweep by. The base audio system features six speakers and a seven-inch haptic touchscreen, while buyers can also choose an optional nine-speaker system with external amplifiers. In the Stinger’s highest specification, buyers can select an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, paired with a powerful 720-watt, 15-speaker Harman-Kardon® surround-sound audio system. The Harman-Kardon® system features a pair of subwoofers mounted beneath the driver and front passenger seats, as well as Clari-Fi™ music restoration technology that rebuilds audio signals lost in the digital compression process. This technology returns a high-fidelity listening experience to any compressed digital source. The system also comes equipped with next-generation QuantumLogic™ Surround Sound technology, which extracts signals from the original recording and redistributes them into an authentic, multi-dimensional soundstage for playback that is clear, refined and full of detail.

Production and on-sale

The Kia Stinger will enter production in the second half of 2017, and will go on sale across Europe during the fourth quarter of the year. Pricing will be announced closer to the Stinger’s on-sale date.

KIA STINGER – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS (EUROPE)

Body and chassis

Four-door, five-seater sport sedan, with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Choice of three turbocharged engines driving the rear wheels or all wheels, via eight-speed automatic transmission.

Powertrain

2.2-litre / 200 ps ‘R’ diesel

Type Turbocharged four-cylinder in-line

Displacement 2,199 cc

Bore and stroke 85.4 x 96.0

Compression ratio 16.0:1

Max power 200 ps (147 kW) @ 3,800 rpm

Max torque 440 Nm (325 lb ft) @ 1,750-2,750 rpm

Valves 16 (four per cylinder)

Fuel system CRDI (common-rail direct injection)

2.0-litre / 255 ps ‘Theta II’ gasoline

Type Turbocharged four-cylinder in-line

Displacement 1,998 cc

Bore and stroke 86.0 x 86.0

Compression ratio 10.0:1

Max power 255 ps (188 kW) @ 6,200 rpm

Max torque 353 Nm (260 lb ft) @ 1,400-4,000 rpm

Valves 16 (four per cylinder)

Fuel system GDI (gasoline direct injection)

3.3-litre / 370 ps ‘Lambda II’ V6 gasoline

Type Twin-turbocharged V6

Displacement 3,342 cc

Bore and stroke 92.0 x 83.8

Compression ratio 10.0:1

Max power 370 ps (276 kW) @ 6,000 rpm

Max torque 510 Nm (376 lb ft) @ 1,300-4,500 rpm

Valves 24 (four per cylinder)

Fuel system GDI (gasoline direct injection)

Layout and drivetrain

Front engine / rear- or all-wheel drive

Transmission

Eight-speed automatic transmission (all models)

Gear ratios

2.2D 2.0i 3.3i

1 3.964 3.964 3.665

2 2.468 2.468 2.396

3 1.610 1.610 1.610

4 1.176 1.176 1.190

5 1.000 1.000 1.000

6 0.832 0.832 0.826

7 0.652 0.652 0.643

8 0.565 0.565 0.556

Reverse 2.273 2.273 2.273

Final drive 3.385 3.727 3.538

Suspension and damping

Front Fully-independent by subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, with anti-roll stabiliser bar

Rear Fully-independent by subframe-mounted double wishbones, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers, with anti-roll stabiliser bar

Steering

Type Electric motor-driven rack-and-pinion power steering, variable ratio

Turns, lock-to-lock 2.4 (RWD), 2.3 (AWD)

Turning circle 11.2 metres (RWD), 11.7 metres (AWD)

Brakes

2.2D 2.0i 3.3i

Size, front / rear (mm) 320 / 315 320 / 315 350 / 340

Front Ventilated disc Ventilated disc Brembo ventilated disc (4-piston)

Rear Solid disc Ventilated disc Brembo ventilated disc (2-piston)

Wheels and tyres

2.2D 225/50 R17 tyres, 7.0Jx17 alloy wheels

2.0i 225/45 R18 tyres, 8.0Jx18 alloy wheels

3.3i 225/40 R19 tyres, 8.0Jx19 alloy wheels (front)

255/35 R19 tyres, 9.0Jx19 alloy wheels (rear)

Spare Tyre mobility kit or optional temporary spare wheel

Dimensions (mm)

Exterior

Overall length 4,830 Overall width* 1,870

Overall height 1,400 Wheelbase 2,905

Front overhang 830 Rear overhang 1,095

*excluding door mirrors

Interior

Front Rear

Head room 974 939

Leg room 1,083 925

Shoulder room 1,433 1,391

↧

Two exceptional motor cars will join the collection at the most anticipated hotel, THE 13.

January 26, 2017, 2:04 am

≫ Next: Unapologetic, uncompromising and built to win, Lotus has announced the development of the mighty Exige Race 380

≪ Previous: Kia unveils European version of powerful new fastback sport sedan, The Stinger.

Two exceptional motor cars will join the collection at the most anticipated hotel, THE 13.

Reserved for the hotel’s most important guests, the two highly Bespoke gold infused creations will become the flagships of the 30 strong collection of Rolls-Royce Phantoms, commissioned by luxury entrepreneur Stephen Hung, Joint Chairman of THE 13 HOLDINGS LIMITED, to reflect his bold vision, as expressed in the design scheme of his refined and remarkable hotel.

Select guests will be conveyed in sumptuous style – ensconced in the world of Rolls-Royce and surrounded by Bespoke enhancements commissioned by Mr Hung – designed to make the experience as effortless and luxurious as possible.

Identified by the inclusion of 24 carat gold on both the exterior and interior, the two distinctive motor cars will be heralded as the finest in the fleet and at the time of commissioning, the most expensive Rolls-Royce Phantoms ever built.

Luxury visionaries, like Mr Hung, come to Rolls-Royce in the knowledge that the marque’s craftspeople accept no compromise.

Characteristic care and attention has therefore been applied to the creation of one of the car’s defining features, an exterior finish enhanced with the finest particles of 23.75 carat gold, a weight chosen for even disbursement, achieving a perfectly executed finish.

The result is the most expensive and meticulously engineered paint the marque has ever produced – a challenge welcomed emphatically by the experts at the Home of Rolls-Royce.

Giles Taylor, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “A Rolls-Royce motor car is commissioned to express the tastes, desires and lifestyle of its patron.

It is testament to the skill of the artisans that so elegantly express their craft at our Global Centre of Excellence in Goodwood, that this bold and technically challenging design scheme has been executed so perfectly.”

The Surface Finish Centre at the Rolls-Royce Global Centre of Excellence in Goodwood installed new and specialist equipment to ensure no contamination could occur during the painting of the two motor cars.

The finish uses 250% more paint than other Phantoms, resulting in an impressive 10 layers, one of which consists of a 40 micron deep layer of Gold, combined with glass and aluminium to provide an alluring shimmer.

Rolls-Royce Material Scientist, Nick Geehan, commented, “Only at the Home of Rolls-Royce would a team embark on such an ambitious project on behalf of one of our patrons.

We accept nothing but perfection – the finish took eight attempts to mix the perfect colour; an apt number when considering the significance of lucky number eight in Macau, the home for these precious Phantoms.”

An uplit 24 carat gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy, the graceful figurine who proudly guides every Rolls-Royce, sits atop a gold-coloured Pantheon Grille and hallmarked Rolls-Royce badge, made using 97.1gms of 18ct gold before being plated in 24 carat gold to match the interior gold highlights.

Vitreous enamel is used to form the signature RR emblem and is surrounded by 336 pavé set brilliant-cut diamonds. A golden twin coachline is hand-painted by Mark Court, Rolls-Royce’s resident expert coachline painter, using a fine squirrel hair paintbrush.

Within the coach doors, renowned Rolls-Royce umbrellas, on hand to protect occupants from undesirable weather or awaiting paparazzi, are also personalised by incorporating a gold handle and a golden trim to match the colour themes of the hotel.

Gold tread plates engraved with ‘PHANTOM Specially Commissioned by Stephen Hung’ remind occupants of the distinctive origins of these remarkable motor cars.

A seminal moment for any building of architectural significance lies in the breaking of the ground.

In the case of THE 13 hotel, this historical occasion was captured in the two Gold Phantoms through the application of a starlight headliner, created to depict the Macau constellation on the night of THE 13’s ground-breaking.

Gold thread is handwoven into the star-scape to identify this constellation and a gold plaque, engraved with the date and location, reminds the world’s elite of the position of this new centre of luxury in Macau.

The grand entrance of the hotel is strikingly echoed in the interior of these Phantoms. On entering the Extended Wheelbase Phantom, guests are greeted by a black and white seat feature which boldly reflects the chequered floor of the entrance hall of the hotel.

Drawing on skills from artisans at the Home of Rolls-Royce who trained in saddlery, the seats are covered in large scale hand-woven black and white leather panels providing a three-dimensional texture to the interior cabin.

A new gold coloured pearl effect leather has been created to edge the seats, ensuring occupants enjoy a stately experience as they are cosseted from the environs of bustling Macau.

Extraordinary attention-to-detail informs every Rolls-Royce Bespoke Design. This is boldly expressed in a beautiful treatment of the instrument dials and clock with both referencing THE 13‘s red and gold theme. The clock was designed in collaboration with master jeweller, Graff.

All 30 Bespoke Phantoms, that represent the largest single commission in Rolls-Royce history, are destined for THE 13.

↧

Unapologetic, uncompromising and built to win, Lotus has announced the development of the mighty Exige Race 380

January 26, 2017, 2:07 am

≫ Next: USA RECALL 1 - Ford expands the Takata Airbag failures by another 810,000 units.

≪ Previous: Two exceptional motor cars will join the collection at the most anticipated hotel, THE 13.

• Race only version of sensational Exige Sport 380

• 375 hp and 410 Nm

• Weight cut to just 998 kg dry

• 0-60 mph in 3.2 secs

• Laps Hethel 1.5 seconds quicker than Exige Cup R

• Aerodynamic downforce boosted to 240 kg

Unapologetic, uncompromising and built to win, Lotus has announced the development of the mighty Exige Race 380 - the track-only sibling of what has been hailed as one of the marque’s most significant and sensational cars, the critically acclaimed Exige Sport 380.

Combining Lotus’ vehicle development skills with its motorsport pedigree, the class-leading competition car will set the pace when the first production cars reach owners in May 2017.

As part of the current Exige’s development cycle, the Race 380 will become the race car of choice for teams as well as privateers for the 2017 / 2018 season.

Taking one of the world’s best supercars, the Exige Sport 380, the new model provides the ultimate in race-bred engineering and comes with a host of competition-focused components as standard.

Gearbox, suspension, aerodynamics and electrical systems are among the items that have been modified to reflect the car’s role but, despite the fact that the new Race model is not available in a road-legal specification, the majority of the original car’s configuration is retained, thanks to the Exige Sport 380’s highly advanced development.

Unveiled late last year, the Lotus Exige Sport 380 has proved to be one of Lotus’ most successful new models in recent years, with orders for the next four months’ production already allocated.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented: “The Lotus Exige Sport 380 is a real giant slayer on the road, and one of the quickest A to B supercars around. It gave us the ideal platform from which to develop the new Exige Race 380 - a peerless competition car designed to beat the best. By setting its weight below 1000kg, its power to weight is unsurpassed in its class. When lapping Hethel, it’s a phenomenal 1.5 seconds faster than the previous Exige Cup R - a massive performance gain. It’s an unparalleled race car that follows the philosophy of Colin Chapman and we can’t wait for customers to experience its capabilities.”

The Lotus Exige Race 380 in more detail

In keeping with its name, the new Exige Race 380 includes a wide range of competition-orientated options as standard, covering everything from drivetrain to driver information system – all designed to increase the car’s capabilities. Developed to be eligible for the world-wide Lotus Cup series and a number of clubman championships, this race car is every inch a winner.

Retaining the race-proven 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, the Exige Race 380 boasts 375 hp at 6,700 rpm and 410 Nm (302 lbft) of torque at 5,000 rpm. However, in order to extract every ounce of performance, the car comes with an Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission, oil cooler, and cassette-type plate limited slip differential, and is operated by carbon paddles located behind the steering wheel. Opting for the full exhaust system in titanium removes a further 10 kg from beyond the rear axle. Extremely quick off the line, the Exige Race 380 sprints from 0-60 in just 3.2 secs, and laps the Hethel track in an outstanding 1 minute 23.5 seconds - the fastest ever for an Exige.

Generating even more downforce from the car’s aerodynamics, the Race 380 produces a phenomenal 240 kg at 170 mph, thanks to some careful revisions. Vents are incorporated into the front bodywork and rear bumper to reduce pressure around the wheels and increase downforce; and a grille mounted at the rear aids air circulation through the engine bay. A new front splitter reduces pressure beneath the Exige, whilst the rear diffuser and larger and a straight-cut motorsport rear wing mounted to the bodywork helps modify airflow at the rear of the car.

Helping the Exige exploit its performance, the Race 380 employs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres as standard (wider 215/45 ZR17 at the front; 265/35 ZR18 at the rear), renowned for their predictable handling and high grip, which are complemented by the car’s ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels. The same attention to detail has been applied to the brakes, with AP Racing forged, four-piston callipers and grooved two-piece brake disc providing the stopping power.

The Exige has long set the benchmark for handling and, to ensure it remains perfectly poised and agile, the Race 380 uses a revised suspension configuration, incorporating 2-way adjustable Öhlins dampers and adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars. This, together with the Lotus Traction Control System, where the amount of wheel slip can be adjusted by the driver from the cockpit, allows owners to fine tune the vehicle’s handling characteristics.

The Exige Race 380 features a full, integrated roll cage, lightweight FIA Carbon driver seat (HANS compatible) and a six-point harness, as well as ultra-lightweight polycarbonate side windows, competition specification fire extinguisher, battery isolator and front and rear motorsport towing eyes. An ultra-lightweight carbon fibre motorsport specific louvered tailgate panel is fitted over the engine and carbon fibre air intake pods are fitted to either side of the car forward of the rear wheels. As with other race cars in the Lotus range, headlamps are replaced by matt black covers and airbags are not included in the specification.

Helping the driver stay on pace, the new Exige Race 380’s colour TFT instrument cluster offers numerous user customisable and programmable screen configurations. Incorporating a track data logger and GPS unit, owners have the opportunity to upgrade this logger with professional data analysis software.

As well as being designed to win, the Exige Race 380 looks exceptional and retains many of the hand-made carbon-fibre components from the Exige Sport 380 including the front inspection cover, hard top and diffuser surround.

The Exige Race 380 is available to order now, priced £99,500 excluding VAT.

↧

USA RECALL 1 - Ford expands the Takata Airbag failures by another 810,000 units.

January 26, 2017, 2:44 am

≫ Next: USA RECALL 2 - Toyota expands the Takata airbag failures by another 540,000 Units

≪ Previous: Unapologetic, uncompromising and built to win, Lotus has announced the development of the mighty Exige Race 380

As part of the planned expansion of vehicles included in the Takata inflator recalls described in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Takata Coordinated Remedy Order, Ford is expanding its safety recall on vehicles with certain passenger frontal airbag inflators after Takata declared those inflators defective.

This action represents primarily a planned expansion of previously recalled vehicles to new geographic regions. Vehicles affected include approximately 816,000 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles built in North America:

2005-09 and 2012 Ford Mustang

2005-06 Ford GT

2006-09 and 2012 Ford Fusion

2007-09 Ford Ranger

2007-09 Ford Edge

2006-09 and 2012 Lincoln Zephyr and Lincoln MKZ

2007-09 Lincoln MKX

2006-09 Mercury Milan

Ford is not aware of any injuries associated with the passenger side frontal inflators included in this safety recall.

A total of 816,309 vehicles have been added globally to this expansion, including 654,695 in the United States and federalized territories, and 161,174 in Canada. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal airbag inflator at no cost to the customer. The Ford reference number for this recall is 17S01.

Customers who want to know if their vehicle is included in this recall can visit www.ford.com, click on safety recalls at the bottom of the page and enter their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

↧

USA RECALL 2 - Toyota expands the Takata airbag failures by another 540,000 Units

January 26, 2017, 2:46 am

≫ Next: USA - The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C won the inaugural 2017 Autobytel “Buyer’s Choice” award for “Best Sports Car”

≪ Previous: USA RECALL 1 - Ford expands the Takata Airbag failures by another 810,000 units.

Toyota Motor North America, Inc. today announced that, based on recent information from Takata as required by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it is expanding its recall involving Takata front passenger air bag inflators.

The involved vehicles are equipped with a particular type of Takata inflator. According to Takata, a safety defect may arise in front passenger air bag inflators in the involved vehicles due to inflator propellant degradation occurring after prolonged exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

This may result in an inflator rupture when the air bag deploys.

This expansion involves approximately 543,000 additional vehicles in the U.S. The following models are included:

2008 – 2009 and 2012 Model Year Scion xB
2009 and 2012 Model Year Toyota Corolla
2009 and 2012 Model Year Toyota Corolla Matrix
2007 – 2009 and 2012 Model Year Toyota Yaris
2012 Model Year Toyota 4Runner
2012 Model Year Toyota Sienna
2006 – 2009 and 2012 Model Year Lexus IS250/350
2012 Model Year Lexus IS250C/350C
2008 – 2009 and 2012 Model Year Lexus IS-F
2007 – 2009 and 2012 Model Year Lexus ES350
2012 Model Year Lexus GX460
2012 Model Year Lexus LFA

All known owners of the involved Toyota, Scion, and Lexus vehicles will be notified by first class mail starting in February. Depending on the vehicle model, dealers will replace either the front passenger air bag inflator or air bag assembly at no cost.

Information about automotive recalls, including but not limited to the list of involved vehicles, is subject to change over time. For the most up-do-date Safety Recall information on Toyota, Lexus or Scion vehicles, customers should check their vehicle’s status by visiting toyota.com/recall and entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Safety Recall inquiry by individual VIN is also available at the NHTSA site: safercar.gov/vin. Additional details regarding Takata recalls can be found at safercar.gov/rs/takata.

For any additional questions, customer support is also available by calling Toyota Customer Service

at 1-800-331-4331, or Lexus Customer Service at 1-800-255-3987.

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USA - The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C won the inaugural 2017 Autobytel “Buyer’s Choice” award for “Best Sports Car”

January 26, 2017, 2:50 am

≫ Next: Valtteri Bottas becomes the 11th driver to compete in Formula One with the Silver Arrows

≪ Previous: USA RECALL 2 - Toyota expands the Takata airbag failures by another 540,000 Units

Industry accolade comes courtesy of Autobytel as more sports car buyers shopped for the Alfa Romeo 4C on Autobytel.com than any other vehicle in the category
Ultralight carbon fiber monocoque and aluminum chassis structures afford 4C an incredible power-to-weight ratio, weighing under 2,500 pounds (lbs.)
Race-inspired performance: 0-60 miles per hour (mph) in 4.1 seconds thanks to an all-aluminum 1750 cc direct-injection, intercooled, turbocharged engine paired to the blistering fast Alfa TCT (twin-clutch transmission) and Alfa DNA selector with four adjustable drive modes
Excellence handcrafted in Modena, Italy: 4C combines the performance engineering of Alfa Romeo and the craftsmanship of Maserati
New 2017 Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe available now for a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $55,900

The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C won the inaugural 2017 Autobytel “Buyer’s Choice” award for “Best Sports Car,” as more sports car buyers shopped for the Alfa Romeo 4C on Autobytel.com and submitted a dealer contact form than any other vehicle in that category.

The Alfa Romeo 4C name recalls the brand’s great sporting tradition: The award-winning 4C Coupe and Spider continue this tradition with the innovative all-aluminum 1750 cc turbocharged direct injection, dual intercooler four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 136 horsepower-per-liter.

With seating for two and the soundtrack of an Italian performance-tuned engine and exhaust, the Alfa Romeo 4C is among the most exhilarating experiences in motoring – and represents the very core of Alfa Romeo’s DNA and heritage.

The 4C beat out nine other sports car finalists, including Acura NSX, Audi R8, Chevrolet Camaro, Chevrolet Camaro SS, Ford Mustang, Jaguar F-TYPE, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Porsche Cayman and Scion FR-S.

The newly minted Autobytel Buyer’s Choice Award covers multiple vehicle sub-categories, each reflecting leadership in both Autobytel.com site search traffic and dealer lead generation. This award is derived from data collected from October 2015 to October 2016.

“After analyzing the data from the past year, it is clear to us that car buyers are most interested in quality, reliability, design, safety and performance,” said Joni Gray, Autobytel’s editor-in-chief. “These are some of the most innovative and beautiful vehicles on the market today.

Each one resonates with the current trends in technology, safety and family-friendly features that win the hearts and pocketbooks of American car buyers. Congratulations to each of the carmakers for this accomplishment.”

The Autobytel Buyer’s Choice Award is especially significant given the fact that roughly 8 million consumers visit Autobytel properties each month to research their next vehicle purchase. Last year, the company delivered more than 9 million leads to its industry partners and well over 60 million leads to its industry partners since 1995.

According to IHS Automotive, consumers submitting leads via the Autobytel network accounted for over 2.5 million new retail sales from 2011 – 2015, representing an average of roughly 4 percent of all U.S. light vehicle new retail sales.

With racing heritage, Italian style and advanced technologies, Alfa Romeo vehicles have always been one of the most desired among collectors and enthusiasts.

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Valtteri Bottas becomes the 11th driver to compete in Formula One with the Silver Arrows

January 26, 2017, 2:57 am

≫ Next: The Mustang has been updated with a new front and rear and more driver focussed technology.

≪ Previous: USA - The 2016 Alfa Romeo 4C won the inaugural 2017 Autobytel “Buyer’s Choice” award for “Best Sports Car”

Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas will race for the Silver Arrows in 2017

Valtteri Bottas becomes the 11^th driver to compete in Formula One with the Silver Arrows
Nico Rosberg accepts ambassadorial role with Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport
Toto Wolff: “It’s time to see how Valtteri can step up to challenge for wins and Championships”
Valtteri Bottas: “I’m grateful to Mercedes for trusting my skills and giving me this opportunity”

It’s been 55 days since Nico Rosberg dropped the bombshell of his immediate retirement from Formula One. And it left the team with a conundrum: how to best fill the vacant seat alongside three-time champion Lewis Hamilton in order to defend the Constructors’ Championship?

Following six weeks of detailed evaluation, deliberation and negotiation, the answer can now be confirmed officially: we signed Valtteri Bottas this morning. The 27-year-old native of Nastola, Finland has completed four seasons in Formula One with Williams, making 77 starts and scoring 9 career podiums so far.

“Sometimes in life, unexpected circumstances provide interesting opportunities. Nico’s decision in December was a big surprise – certainly a challenging situation for the team to handle.

But weathering the storm makes you more resilient and we see this as another opportunity for the team to grow,” explained Toto Wolff as he introduced the fourth driver to race for the Silver Arrows in the modern era.

“Valtteri is a no-nonsense guy: down to earth, straightforward and very focused. Pretty Finnish, to be honest, and a great fit for us. He has an impressive track record in the junior categories and nine podiums in F1.

But now it’s time for the next level, to see how he can step up to challenge for race wins and for Championships. We know that we are already behind the curve in terms of preparations for the new season, so we’ve got a busy programme to get him integrated into the team. One thing is for sure: as I know Valtteri, he will give it everything.”

Valtteri was cautiously optimistic when he met his new team-mates in the factory today. “It’s very exciting times for me,” he grinned. “I think it’s going to take a while to understand that this is really happening.

It’s definitely another dream come true, to race in another team with such great history – especially in the recent years, which have been so impressive. I’m really proud to become a part of that and grateful to everyone at Mercedes for trusting my skills and giving me this opportunity.

“I’ve had a really warm welcome so far. Of course, I have a lot more people to meet and new faces to remember. But initially everything has felt very good. I’m really impressed with the facilities and I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone better. My first experience with Mercedes power was in F3 back in 2009 and, of course, I know the Power Unit well from the last three years with Williams. But there are a lot of new things to learn with the car and also with how the team operates at the factory, in testing and at the races.”

The scale of the challenge ahead cannot be underestimated. New aerodynamic regulations mean a reset for the entire field and there is genuine uncertainty about which team will emerge on top; Valtteri is paired with probably the most ferociously fast team-mate in the sport, Lewis Hamilton; and there are just 70 days until the red lights go out at the start of the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.

“We have confidence in Valtteri’s ability and it’s one of the reasons that he is the driver we set our sights on this winter,” continued Toto. “The next weeks will be busy as we work to build relationships so Valtteri understands the team and the car. But that’s an exciting challenge that will bring us fresh energy and a new dynamic between the drivers. And, of course, we’re working hard to give Lewis and Valtteri the car they need to do the job.”

Valtteri is under no illusions about the task ahead: “I’m ready to work hard, to prove myself to the team and to prove my skills. It’s going to be a challenging season and joining a new team makes it more work than normal. But I’m 100% ready for that. I’m training hard to be at my physical best because it will be much tougher with these new cars. I always set the bar really high, so my target is to perform from the first race. I’m full of energy and ready to get to work for this year and hopefully many more to come with Mercedes.”

The agreement for Valtteri to join Mercedes has not happened in isolation. With today’s announcements that Pascal Wehrlein will join Sauber for 2017, and that Felipe Massa will return to Williams, the final pieces of the puzzle have fallen into place for this year. And that has only been possible thanks to positive working relationships between all the teams involved in a complex chain of negotiations.

“On behalf of Mercedes, I must thank Williams for their cooperation in allowing Valtteri to make this move – and also Monisha and Sauber for their patience during the past weeks,” concluded Toto.

“It’s been a busy day in the driver market and I am pleased to know that Pascal will be racing at Sauber to continue his development in F1. He had a good first season with Manor and we feel this is the right path for him in the sport.

It’s satisfying to have both of our Young Drivers taking on new challenges in F1 this year, with Esteban also racing at Force India. We’ll be following their progress closely; I’m sure we’ve got an exciting season ahead of us.”

From Valtteri, too, there were warm words for his friends and colleagues at Williams: “I had a great seven years there, starting as a test driver in 2010. I’m very proud of what we achieved together and I leave with some very good memories.

My debut in F1, my first points and nine podiums all came with the guys and girls at Grove, so I must say a big thanks to everyone and I wish them all the very best for the future.”

As Valtteri now begins a busy week of technical and physical preparations for the new season, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport is pleased to confirm that Nico has accepted an ambassadorial role with the team for 2017.

His first commitment will be tomorrow, in Geneva, alongside former team-mate Lewis Hamilton at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) on behalf of team partner IWC Schaffhausen.

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The Mustang has been updated with a new front and rear and more driver focussed technology.

January 26, 2017, 2:59 am

≫ Next: USA - The range of companies under the GM Banner and with the Ignition issues has been resolved via the US SEC.

≪ Previous: Valtteri Bottas becomes the 11th driver to compete in Formula One with the Silver Arrows

Sleeker design: New Mustang features a more athletic look, with new front and rear-end design that deliver a leaner and meaner look and refined aerodynamics
More advanced technology: New Mustang technologies include a 12-inch all-digital instrument cluster that you can customize your way, MyMode with memory function that remembers your driving preferences for the next time you drive, and new driver-assist features such as Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection for increased confidence behind the wheel
Improved Performance: Powerful engine upgrades, plus an all-new available 10-speed automatic transmission give Mustang even more performance, while available MagneRide^™ suspension offers optimum handling; optional active valve exhaust affords complete auditory control – let the engine roar, or not

Today, Ford partnered with its ambassador of Service, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, to introduce the new Mustang – the world’s best-selling sports coupe and the company’s most advanced Mustang ever.

A host of improvements including new technology and design changes give owners ways to customize Mustang to their preferences, even better performance from more powerful engines and new MagneRide^™suspension technology.

Customers have more ways than ever to personalize Mustang to make it their own, with three new paint colors, 12 distinct wheel choices and a customizable digital instrument cluster.

“The new Mustang is our best ever, based on more than 50 years as one of the iconic sports car in America and now, the world,” said Joe Hinrichs, president of The Americas.

“Tapping Mustang’s enormous fan base, we’re bringing the new Mustang straight to the people – and introducing the new car across multiple social media channels, reaching millions.”

Ford tapped Johnson to reveal the new Mustang to the world by giving one of the first models available to a deserving member of the military. A video of the debut was launched on Johnson’s social channels, including Youtube, Instagram and Facebook, where Mustang holds the title for the most-popular car with more than 8.4 million ‘likes.’

Technology for greater personalization

Mustang makes available Ford’s first 12-inch all-digital LCD screen in the dashboard. This all-new customizable instrument cluster can be easily personalized, offering three separate views. Customers can personalize the displays for normal, sport and track mode.

All-new Mustang MyMode with memory function allows customers to save their favorite drive settings, including suspension and steering preferences.

The new Mustang is so customizable that even its engine note can be adjusted. Delivering an audible experience like never before, an all-new active valve exhaust system is optional on Mustang GT, with a fully variable soundtrack to match the entire acceleration range.

For the first time, Mustang benefits from a vast array of Ford driver-assist technology. Customers can feel more confident than ever behind the wheel with new features like Pre-Collision Assist with pedestrian detection, distance alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist and Driver Alert System.

Ford SYNC® Connect with FordPass™ is available on Mustang for the first time. When using the FordPass^®app for smartphones, drivers can start, lock, unlock and locate their car for ultimate convenience.

Ultimate performance

Performance is at the core of Mustang DNA, offering drivers a unique thrill of acceleration and cornering for the ultimate fun-to-drive experience. On all models, new shock absorbers make for better ride control, a new cross-axis joint in the rear suspension leads to increased lateral stiffness, and innovative stabilizer bars bring sharper response and handling.

MagneRide damper technology is a new option with the Mustang Performance Package to optimize ride and handling in all situations.

The proven 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine continues to offer outstanding performance advantages versus the outgoing 3.7-liter V6. Using Ford’s transient overboost technology uniquely calibrated for Mustang, torque is increased for wide-open throttle acceleration.

Ford’s legendary 5.0-liter V8 engine has been thoroughly reworked. It is more powerful and revs higher than any Mustang GT before. This power increase was achieved with the first application for Mustang of Ford’s new dual-fuel, high-pressure direct injection and low-pressure port fuel injection on a V8 engine – delivering robust low-end torque, high-rpm power, and improved fuel efficiency.

The manual transmission for both engine options has been upgraded for optimal torque. For the V8, the manual transmission has been totally redesigned to include a twin-disc clutch and dual-mass flywheel to increase torque capability and deliver more efficient clutch modulation.

A new 10-speed automatic transmission, available with both EcoBoost and V8 engines, is the best automatic Mustang has ever offered. With a wide-ratio span and optimized gear spacing, this all-new gearbox helps deliver higher average power for acceleration – improving responsiveness and performance.

Compared to the previous six-speed, the new 10-speed transmission has quicker shift times, better low-speed tip-in response and significantly reduced friction losses. The all-new electronic control system includes unique tunes for different drive modes and features real-time adaptive shift scheduling to ensure the right gear at the right time. Steering wheel-mounted shift paddles allow drivers maximum manual control.

Energy in the design

Overall, the car’s exterior design is now more athletic, with a lower, remodeled hood and grille that deliver a leaner look and refined aerodynamics, upper and lower front grilles, and a new position for hood vents. For the first time the entire Mustang line will feature all-LED front lights including signature lighting, low-beams, turn signals, efficient projector high-beams and available fog lamps.

The rear of the car gets revised LED taillamps for a more technical look, plus a new bumper, fascia and available performance spoiler. Dual-tip exhaust is standard for EcoBoost^® Mustang, while V8-powered Mustang GT gets a standard quad-tip exhaust.

With a dozen available alloy wheel designs and fresh exterior color choices – including all-new signature Orange Fury – enthusiasts can order a Mustang with the look they’re after.

Improved touch points and visual cues with a more premium look and feel characterize the new cockpit. The center console adds a new hand-stitched wrap with contrast stitching and padded knee bolsters while door handles, rings and bezels are finished in aluminum. Restyled seating surfaces feature new patterns and color choices, the instrument panel sports an updated Mustang badge and there’s a new key fob design. A heated steering wheel is optional.

Ford’s most advanced Mustang ever goes on sale in North America this fall.

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USA - The range of companies under the GM Banner and with the Ignition issues has been resolved via the US SEC.

January 27, 2017, 2:50 am

≫ Next: USA - Toyota celebrates 30 years of production in the US with more than 30 million produced.

≪ Previous: The Mustang has been updated with a new front and rear and more driver focussed technology.

General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) announced today that it has resolved a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission investigation arising from the company’s 2014 ignition switch recalls by consenting to an administrative SEC Cease and Desist Order, without admitting or denying any wrongdoing.

The SEC settlement does not call into question any of GM’s current or prior financial statements or its disclosures. Also, no material weakness or significant deficiency was found by the SEC.

The pictures above and description of models at the base are just a small percentage of the models that have been recalled for the Ignition issues, if you have any queries, try >>HERE<< there is more info, and if you are still unsure, then contact your local GM dealership and they will be more than happy to check out if your car has been recalled or not - and if it still needs doing.

Since the ignition switch recall, GM has been proactively and successfully resolving ignition switch issues with customers and regulators at both the state and federal level. GM will pay a civil penalty of $1 million as part of the settlement.

In the months immediately following the ignition switch recall, GM reorganized its vehicle engineering teams for greater transparency, urgency and accountability. This included creating a new global vehicle safety organization that is focused on executing zero-defect safety systems for vehicles and customers.

The safety organization includes an industry-leading emerging issues and data analysis team and a re-engineered field investigation process. The company also created a “Speak Up For Safety” program that provides all employees and suppliers an opportunity to report or suggest any potential safety related items.

General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM, its subsidiaries and joint venture entities sell vehicles under the Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling brands. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.

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USA - Toyota celebrates 30 years of production in the US with more than 30 million produced.

January 27, 2017, 2:53 am

≫ Next: PEUGEOT unveils first fully comprehensive online car-buying process based in the UK.

≪ Previous: USA - The range of companies under the GM Banner and with the Ignition issues has been resolved via the US SEC.

More than 30 Million Vehicles Produced in North America Since 1986

In 2016, Toyota achieved another record year of North American vehicle production with 2,124,608 vehicles built at its North American vehicle assembly plants. Production volume was up 4.4 percent over the previous year total of 2,035,028 vehicles.

Toyota’s total vehicle production in North America since 1986 has reached more than 30 million. Key drivers of this year’s increased production include low fuel prices, continued stability in the overall economy and strong customer demand for trucks and SUVs.

“Our success is driven by the talent and dedication of the men and women who manufacture our products here in the U.S.,” said Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota Motor North America (TMNA). “Every part and every vehicle that rolls off the line reflects our commitment to safety, quality, value, and, above all, our passion for exceeding customer expectations.”

Toyota marked milestone anniversaries in 2016 for the following manufacturing facilities:

Cambridge, Ontario - 30 years
Georgetown, Kentucky - 30 years
Princeton, Indiana - 20 years
Buffalo, West Virginia - 20 years
Huntsville, Alabama - 15 years

The company also broke ground for its 15^th, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato in November; the new plant is scheduled to begin Corolla production in 2019.

Toyota produces 13 models in North America including: Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma, Tundra, Lexus RX 350, Lexus ES 350, Yaris and Yaris iA. Toyota directly employs more than 44,000 people.

Toyota North American Vehicle Production
Manufacturing Site	Model	2016	2015
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK)	Avalon	43,800	56,928
	Avalon Hybrid	7,098	12,159
	Camry	366,302	332,588
	Camry Hybrid	34,157	32,811
	Venza	5,821	19,094
	ES 350	43,588	4,088
	Total	500,766	457,668
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc. (TMMI)	Highlander	222,578	192,905
	Highlander Hybrid	6,935	5,422
	Sequoia	20,441	22,842
	Sienna	151,905	154,478
	Total	401,859	375,647
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Mississippi, Inc. (TMMMS)	Corolla	182,025	190,514
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Mississippi, Inc. (TMMMS)	Total	182,025	190,514
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc. (TMMTX)	Tacoma	127,884	110,911
	Tundra	133,767	121,999
	Total	261,651	232,910
Subaru Indiana Automotive, Inc. (SIA)	Camry	35,945	79,843
Subaru Indiana Automotive, Inc. (SIA)	Total	35,945	79,843
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, Inc. (TMMC)	Corolla	237,553	252,362
	RX 350	105,887	87,974
	RX 350 Hybrid	7,931	8,076
	RAV4	250,345	242,311
	Total	601,716	590,723
Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California (TMMBC)	Tacoma	97,145	82,328
Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California (TMMBC)	Total	97,145	82,328
Mazda Motor Manufacturing de Mexico S.A. de C.V. (MMVO)	Toyota Yaris / Yaris iA	43,501	25,395
Mazda Motor Manufacturing de Mexico S.A. de C.V. (MMVO)	Total	43,501	25,395
Total Vehicle Production	Grand Total	2,124,608	2,035,028

Toyota North American Engine Production in 2016
Manufacturing Site	Engine	2016
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK)	4-cylinder^*	409,680
	V6	210,058
	Total	619,738
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia, Inc. (TMMWV)^**	4-cylinder	421,428
	V6	241,457
	Total	662,885
Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama, Inc. (TMMAL)	4-cylinder	281,527
	V6	266,193
	V8	154,297
	Total	702,017
Total Engine Production	Grand Total	1,984,640

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