Jaguar Diesel XF

The big cat is finally out of the bag! Jaguar has released the first pictures and full details of its new XF Diesel S, an oilburning flagship that combines class-leading performance with impressive fuel economy.

Due on sale in March, the newcomer is fitted with a new 3.0-litre V6 engine with 273bhp and a staggering 600nm of torque. Capable of a top speed of 155mph, and a 0-60mph sprint of 5.9 seconds the newcomer also promises to return 42mpg.
Meanwhile, CO2 emissions are 179g/km – that’s 10 percent less than the acclaimed 2.7-litre unit that this new engine replaces.

Power is transmitted to the road via the rear wheels, through an updated six speed automatic gearbox. Drivers can either select a fully automatic mode, or swap ratios via steering wheel mounted paddles.
To complete the package, XF Diesel S also gets 20 inch wheels, an aerodynamic boot lid spoiler and discreet ‘S’ badging.
Inside, the S gets sports seats, and a number of specification upgrades to the car’s satellite navigation and air-conditioning systems.

However, the new Diesel S is not the only XF to benefit from the company’s latest diesel technology.

Jaguar has announced that is also plans to add an entry level 3.0-litre V6 model to the line-up to replace the basic 2.7-litre V6.

Volkswagen Fox - Review

Styling/Image
The Fox is a VW launched in the South American market back in 2003. It's been reworked for European showrooms, with a four-car line-up; 54bhp 1.2-litre and 74bhp 1.4-litre engines are offered in standard or better-equipped Urban trim. There is just a single three-door bodystyle, but even this appears dated. The Fox is bland and plain compared to the cute Lupo it replaces.

Interior/Practicality
Don’t expect to find a miniature Golf cabin inside. Both the design and quality are from Volkswagens of old. Fit and finish is fine, yet it’s hard not to feel a bit short changed by the aging design. We’ve got no complaints with the practicality, though. Fold the rear seats and the Fox’s luggage area is huge.

Engine/Performance
Both 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol engines are available to Fox buyers. The 1.4-litre engine, which is manufactured in Brazil, is a version of the unit seen in the Polo, so refinement is reasonable. And with a decent slug of torque, the Fox is quick in-gear. However, to make the most of the VW’s bargain prices, opt for the cheaper 1.2.


Driving experience
The Fox is a comfortable city car. With a ride that’s soft rather than sporty, it’s more than capable of tackling speed bumps. The four-cylinder engines are relatively quiet, helping to make the Fox a good long-distance cruiser. Head down a more challenging road and the soggy handling won’t inspire handling, but the steering is reasonably well weighted. Decent brakes and a slick gearbox make the VW easy to drive.

Costs
Getting a VW badge on your bonnet doesn’t get any cheaper than this. Rival city cars offer more kit for the money, but few can match the Fox’s carrying capacity in the sub £7,500 category. Avoid costly options to make the most of the Volkswagen’s value.

Environment/Safety
The Fox’s size means it carries more weight than your average city car and needs larger engines as a result. Fuel economy is relatively poor, resulting in high CO2 emissions.

• Rating:
• On the road price: £7,168 - £7,981
• For : Desirable badge, chunky shape, practical cabin, big boot
• Against : Lacklustre dynamics, dated interior design, cheap cabin plastics, poor standard equipment levels

Zenvo ST-1

GREAT Danes are know for their presence and power – and this one is no exception. Known as the Zenvo ST-1, it’s Denmark’s first foray into the supercar arena.

The aggresive body is hand-built from carbon fibre wrapped around a light steel frame – but its performance should be even more eye-popping. Powered by a 7.0-litre V8 fitted with both a turbo and supercharger, its makers claim it will produce a staggering 1,104bhp.


The ST-1 will achieve a 0-60mph sprint time of three seconds and rocket all the way to 120mph in just under nine seconds. But it might not quite be the Bugatti beater, as despite a huge power-to-weight ratio of 1,055bhp per ton, top speed is limited electronically to 233mph.

Just as impressive is the fact that the car was conceived less than five years ago. Zenvo Automotive was formed in 2004, with the aim of creating a hand-made and high-performance yet useable supercar – so the ST-1 should make as much sense on the street as it does on the track. The Nissan GT-R-meets-Audi R8 styling is sure to win the car a place on many bedroom walls, but prospective buyers will have to be quick. Production is scheduled to start later in 2009, but just 15 models will be made for specially approved buyers. Prices have not yet been announced.

Volkswagen Golf GT

It's one of the hottest new cars of 2009.Now in its sixth generation, the latest Volkswagen Golf is shorter and lower than its predecessor, but still instantly recognisable. It's stylish body looks modern and overall the design is less fussy than before. But with an unchanged wheelbase, cabin space is similar. The extra width helps rear passenger room but boot capacity is the same.

The dash design is similar to the current model's, but the central console is now angled more towards the driver, while the instrument binnacle features white backlit dials. Quality has taken a step forward too, as a result the Golf’s cabin is once again class leading but it’s the new levels of refinement that’s the most impressive.

Thanks to new sound insulation and a laminated windscreen the Golf’s ability to isolate road and wind noise is excellent, it’s noticeably more refined than its rivals in this segment, while the new common rail 2.0-litre TDI is impressively civilised too. The chassis is very capable as well; high grip levels, a revised stability control system and nicely weighted controls mean its great to drive. The GT model gets 15mm lower sports suspension, which adds a firm edge to the ride but this aside the damping is supple and composed.

And for the first time Volkswagen’s Adaptive Chassis Control active damper system is an option on the Golf, as is the automatic parking ParkAssist technology. With BlueMotion, GTI and more powerful diesel models coming next year, Golf should be big in 2009.

Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S

With its unique headlamps, new look badges and ultra luxury interior, this is the car Maserati says will finally break BMW and Mercedes grip on the supersaloon class.

These are the first pictures of the new Quattroporte Sport GT S, a BMW M5 and Mercedes E63 AMG rival which will be unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show this week.Offering a staggering 432bhp from its 4.7-litre V8 engine, the model also gets a quick shift gearbox, and revised suspension.

The car’s ride height has also been lowered, and there a new sports exhaust has been fitted that features a special set of valves that varies the system’s volume and pitch.

To help drivers immediately identify the newcomer, changes have also been made to the front grille – which is now the same design as that fitted to the recently launched Gran Turismo.

Door handles get a colour coded finish, while inside, driver and passengers are offered leather and alcantara trimmed bucket seats, plus composite detailing on the doors and dash.

Prices for the newcomer will be announced in the New Year.

Nissan GT-R - Review

The sheer scale of the GT-R gives it huge road presence. Even cars costing three times as much will struggle to match the outrageous styling of Nissan’s angular coupe. It’s not pretty, but with four dustbin-lid sized exhaust pipes, matching taillights and huge alloy wheels it looks like a high performance car should. Its evocative badge doesn’t hold the universal appeal of an Italian thoroughbred but to its core audience there’s nothing to rival the appeal of the GT-R logo.

Interior/Practicality

Given the performance available, the big Nissan is pretty practical. Adults won’t find the rear seats very comfortable, but they’re fine for children and extra luggage. There’s even a decent 315-litre boot. Technology lovers will cherish the multi-function display at the centre of the dashboard because it provides information on everything from cornering g-forces to turbo boost pressure! However, the switchgear and cabin plastics are better suited to a supermini than a supercar and the bluff dashboard looks basic. It comes with loads of standard kit but simply lacks the sense of occasion you expect from a 193mph coupe.

Engine/Performance

The GT-R is a genuine technological tour de force. Its 2.8-litre twin turbo V6 engine delivers 473bhp and it blasts from 0-60mph in just 3.5 seconds. Acceleration is brutal thanks to the GT-R’s excellent four-wheel drive transmission and six-speed twin clutch gearbox. The paddleshift set-up provides seamless power delivery and super-smooth gearchanges – it can even be used as a full auto. The advanced Electronic Stability Control system can be configured to suit road and track driving but turning it off completely removes the safety net provided by its incredibly flattering electronics.


Driving experience

On British roads the GT-R feels wide but once you get used to its huge dimensions and firm ride comfort the Nissan is an astonishingly capable road car, with massive reserves of grip in all conditions. The paddle-shift gearbox couldn’t be simpler to operate and with the power directed to the rear wheels most of the time, steering feel is incredible. The big coupe changes direction with razor-sharp reactions and switches on the centre console allow you to tweak the gearbox, ESP and damper settings. Hit the track and the turbine-like power delivery provides dizzying thrust at any speed while the superb brakes serve-up impressive stopping power.

Ownership Costs

On the face of it the GT-R isn’t cheap, but look at the performance available and it’s actually a bit of a bargain. Future costs will be in the supercar category thanks to expensive tyres, sky-high fuel consumption and pricey insurance. But then, you don’t expect family car bills when you buy one of these cars do you?

Safety/Environment

Final CO2 emissions are yet to be confirmed but it’s fair to say the Nissan’s green credentials are poor thanks to its terrible fuel economy. A host of electronic driver aids are designed to keep you on the straight and narrow, and you get six airbags. The GT-R hasn’t been through the Euro NCAP crash test programme, but with such a super stiff chassis the big coupe should be a strong performer if it does all go wrong.

Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss

If you thought the standard SLR was extreme, then take a look at this! Called the SLR Stirling Moss, Mercedes has pulled out all the stops to make sure this is the firm’s wildest road car ever. There’s no roof or windscreen, while under the stretched bonnet lies the same 641bhp supercharged V8 from the outgoing SLR and SLR Roadster.

Designed to evoke memories of Sir Stirlings famous 300SLR, with which he won the Milli Miglia, this car gets retro styling and two-seater speedster layout.Two air scoops, moulded into the bodywork above the headrests, double up as roll hoops in the event of a crash, while a central bar splits the cabin into two distinct cockpits.

The bodywork is crafted from lightweight carbon fibre and is entirely redesigned from the ‘standard’ SLR. Enormous side vents and the swooping nose give a bullet-like profile, while the SLR’s trademark side-exit quad exhausts give the driver and passenger front row seats to the throaty V8 soundtrack.

The interior is sparse and functional, in keeping with the speedster’s racing car roots, and each machine is fitted with a metal plate around the automatic shift lever engraved with Moss’ signature.But while the looks are retro, the performance is cutting edge. Using the same 5.4-litre V8 from the SLR, it’s capable of hitting 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 217mph.

To boost the aerodynamics, there’s a flat underbody and large rear diffuser – both for maximum downforce at the rear axle. There’s also a self-raising airbrake positioned on the boot lip, which adds extra stopping power under heavy braking.

Only 75 cars will be made between June and December 2009, starting as soon as the final SLR roadster has roared off the production line. Costing a phenomenal £591,000 each, the exclusive SLR Stirling Moss will only be made available to hand-picked clients who have shown loyalty to the SLR brand.

Review - Vauxhall Insignia

Styling/Image

With its flowing lines and eye-catching details, the Insignia is a huge styling step forward over the Vectra it replaces. Both the hatchback and saloon share the same low-slung roofline, while Sports Tourer adds a practical estate rear end. It lacks the on road presence of a Ford Mondeo, but there’s no denying the Luton model is much more desirable than its predecessor. Buyers can choose from Exclusiv, S, SE, SRi and Elite versions. Alloy wheels are standard on all cars apart from sales rep special S.

Interior/Practicality

Climb aboard the Insignia and it’s immediately clear that Vauxhall is targeting premium rivals. The fit and finish are excellent, as is the quality of the materials. Our only cause for complaint is that accommodation in the rear is slightly cramped, with taller passengers struggling for headroom. All versions get air-con, cruise control and automatic lights. Satellite navigation comes as standard on Nav variants of each trim level. Keen drivers can pick the SRi, which gets sports suspension, heavily bolstered seats and 18-inch alloy wheels.

Engine/Performance

Pick of the engine line-up is the torquey 2.0-litre diesel engine. Available with either 128 or 158bhp, the oil-burner is a little unrefined on start up but serves-up strong mid-range urge and should deliver nearly 50mpg. Petrol fans have a choice of three units. Entry-level cars get a 138bhp 1.8-litre petrol that struggles with the Insignia’s 1,428kg kerbweight. Buyers wanting more performance have the choice of two turbocharged powerplants – a 217bhp 2.0-litre or automatic only 256bhp 2.8-litre V6. Both are available with a grippy four-wheel drive transmission, which helps the bigger motor slingshot from standstill to 62mph in just 6.7 seconds.

Driving experience

Few cars in the class are as refined as the Insignia. On the move, wind, road and engine noise are kept to a minimum, making the car an excellent long distance cruiser. But that’s not to say that driving fans will be disappointed. While it lacks the ultimate dynamic poise and polish of the Ford Mondeo, the Vauxhall displays reassuring composure in corners. SRi, SE and Elite versions are available with FlexRide adaptive damping as an extra cost option.

Costs

Take a look at the price lists and you’ll see that the Vauxhall actually undercuts many of its rivals, particularly if you plump for the sat-nav equipped models. The Insignia even manages to outperform mainstream competition when it comes to residuals, retaining around 35 percent of its value after three years. Cost conscious buyers should stick to the oil-burners, which will return up to 50mpg at the pumps and emit 154g/km of CO2.

Environment/Safety

The Insignia has already been tested by EuroNCAP and emerged with a solid five star rating. All models get six airbags and electronic stability control. Dig a little deeper in your pockets and you can specify adaptive headlamps, lane departure warning and an innovative speed limit recognition system. Eco-friendly motorists should avoid the thirsty 2.8-litre V6 models, which manages only 25mpg and churns out 272g/km.

Our Choice: Insignia Exclusiv 2.0 CDTi. On the road price: £15,601 - £27,497

Kia concept Car....

This is the first teaser shot of Kia’s all-new concept. Set to make its debut at the North American Motor Show in January, the concept will be an evolution of the Soul due out next March.



The new concept will be built on the same platform as the 2009 Soul, demonstrating improved packaging and flexability.
Full details about the Kia concept will be revealed after the launch, due to take place on January 11.

Mercedes BlueZero

It looks like blue will be the colour of this year's Mercedes show stand at the Detroit Motor Show. The German giant is set to reveal three variants of its new BlueZero concept, revealed here for the very first time. Based on the same platform that underpins the new B-Class, all three promise ultra-green credentials thanks to a heady mix of cutting edge technology, and advanced design.The most ambitious of the three is the all-electric BlueZero E-Cell, which is powered by lithium-ion batteries and a 100kw electric motor that boasts an impressive 320Nm of torque.

Merc claims that only two hours of charge will power the BlueZero E-Cell for around 100km (62 miles). That’s might not sound like much but as the car is being aimed solely at city drivers, it should fit the bill for eco-conscious types with short commutes.

For drivers with longer distance journeys, Mercedes has developed two, longer-legged alternatives in the form of the BlueZero E-Cell Plus and the B-Class F-Cell.

The E-Cell Plus uses the same set-up as the E-Cell, but it also features an internal combustion engine – a three-cylinder turbochrged unit borrowed from child company, Smart – which acts as a generator, charging the batteries on the move and stretching the range of the eco-Merc out to a respectable 600km (373 miles).

The third and final BlueZone variant – the F-Cell – gets a hydrogen fuel cell. Mercedes claims that the F-Cell will emit no emissions whatsoever and kick out around 134bhp and 320NM of torque – roughly the equivalent of a modern turbodiesel powerplant.

But it’s not all about showcasing the latest eco-friendly powertrains. The exterior of the BlueZone is a big hint to what the next generation of B-Class will look like when it arrives in 2010. The flat nose, swooping and sculpted sides and peculiar headlamps could all make their way onto the new B-Class when it arrives in showrooms, and you can bet that there will be at least one alternatively-fuelled B-Class on sale in 2009.

Audi R8 V10 Unleashed........

Car Giants Audi has 10 new reasons to celebrate, and here’s the reason why – it’s the R8 V10 supercar!Making its debut at next month’s Detroit Motor Show, the fastest R8 yet shares its 5.2-litre V10 engine with the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 and the wild R8 LMS GT3 racer. It produces 528bhp, and takes the flagship from 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds and on to a 196mph top speed.

Audi’s magnetic ride dampers come as standard and, as with the V8, you can choose a six-speed manual gearbox or an R tronic semi-auto. With the latter, the car returns 20.6mpg – only 0.1mpg less than the R8 V8. While it is similar to the V8 on the outside, the V10 has headlights which use LEDs for main and dipped beams – a world first – plus trademark daytime running lights. The front bumper also features fewer slats to improve air flow, and high-gloss black paint for the air intakes.

At the side are bigger slats, and the V10 will get 19-inch alloys as standard. Ceramic brakes are optional. The biggest changes are at the back, where there’s a new rear diffuser to generate more downforce, more gloss black paint and twin oval tailpipes to replace the V8 car’s quad chrome exhausts.The LED headlamps are a first in the world.

Inside are heated Nappa leather seats and a Bang and Olufsen stereo. The R8 V10 is set to cost £99,575 in manual trim and £104,665 with the R Tronic gearbox.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Aston N400 Roadster

Rapid drop-top Brit celebrates racing success with a of host desirable tweaks.

What better way to prove your racing credentials than with a road car designed for the track? That’s exactly what Aston Martin’s V8 Vantage N400 Roadster has been made to do.Built to celebrate Aston’s success at the Nürburgring 24-Hour endurance race, the drop-top joins a coupé version in the line-up. And it’s at the forefront of the firm’s efforts to tempt enthusiasts away from models such as the Porsche 911 and Audi R8.The N400 gets styling tweaks, plus a more powerful engine and uprated suspension. An extra 20bhp has been squeezed from the 4.3-litre V8, which ups power to 400bhp, while torque jumps to 420Nm.Other changes include the ‘Karussel Orange’ paint – it also comes in black and silver – plus new 19-inch alloys, reprofiled side sills and a map of the Nürburgring on the boot badge. The cabin is a high class affair, although the circuit layout stitched on the centre armrest is an acquired taste.

Despite the added power, the N400 still has the regular Vantage’s refined road manners – until you start exploring the top end of the rev range, that is. It’s here that those extra horses can be felt. Where the standard car runs out of puff, the N400 keeps charging to the red line.Improvements to the suspension are equally subtle, but as the speed rises, the Vantage feels sure-footed and inspires confidence, while the steering has plenty of feedback. This is helped by a lack of flex in the chassis – in fact you’d be hard-pressed to tell the Roadster apart from the coupé in terms of driving dynamics. However, it’s the noise that really steals the show. Drop the top, and it’s a full-on assault on the senses. The exhaust note varies from booming at low revs to a savage shriek as you approach the limiter.At £102,000, the manual version is £9,000 more than the standard car, while it’s another £3,000 if you specify the Speedshift automated manual gearbox. But prospective buyers had better be quick – only 240 examples each of the Roadster and coupé are planned for production.Source

• Rating:

Honda’s mega two-seater goes off the scale!

Japanese giant create a 1:64 Scale model of wild 20-litre V10 racer.

This Hot Wheels tribute to the 20-litre V10 Honda Racer concept is tiny, but it captures the real car’s racing spirit perfectly! The design, first revealed at the SEMA modified car show in the US last year, was inspired by Honda’s famous H logo. The only restrictions before being transformed into a 1:64-scale replica for production were that it could fit the Hot Wheels track and do a ‘loop-the-loop’.Source

New Jazz SUV gets tough

News of Honda’s latest arrival should be music to the ears of Jazz fans. It has turned its supermini into a baby SUV!The soft-roader uses the front-wheel-drive platform of the Jazz as a starting point, but the body gets a chunky, off-road-style makeover. Performance promises to be strong, too, as under the bonnet is a 1.8-litre petrol engine. While the concept is a five-door, there are rumours Honda is working on a three-door. Buyers should get a wide choice of trims, while a range of exterior graphics will allow them to personalise their car.The model is the fresh face of Honda’s new youth brand, Li Nian, which it says means ‘subject’ or ‘idea’ in English.

Unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show in China, the marque is set to follow in the wheel tracks of Toyota’s Scion subsidiary, which has proved a hit with US drivers. Honda is reluctant to confirm whether the brand will still be called Li Nian when it goes on sale, though. There are rumours the name could be used only in the Chinese market, where it is due in showrooms in 2010. The SUV will be made at China’s Guangzhou Honda plant, which already builds the Jazz and Accord for export to Europe. This facility is also likely to produce the next Jazz, which goes on sale later this year in Japan – where it’s badged Fit – ahead of a UK launch in 2009. But there are no immediate plans to bring the Li Nian model here.Source

Tool sees in the dark

Working in your engine bay can be a frustrating experience as you squint into the darkness. So, this new range of LED-equipped wrenches from Sealey promises to make life that little bit easier. Light is beamed directly through the socket rather than from an angle elsewhere, and shines exactly where you want it. The output is more than sufficient to illuminate dark corners, and as you don’t have to hold a torch, you can work more effectively. There are compromises, though, as the batteries are held under a knurled cap, which doubles as the power switch. It’s all too easy to loosen this, and over-tightening makes the socket hard to turn.

That’s a shame, as the ratchet action is smooth, with plenty of teeth giving good control, allowing the tool to be used in tight spaces. It’s heavy, and the well finished chromed metal provides a quality feel. Unfortunately, this is not matched by the handle, which had too much hard plastic and not enough soft, grippy material. We found that even on the 3/8-inch tool it was too small for most hands.What’s more, we have doubts about the battery casing standing up to the rigours of prolonged use. So although the Sealey tool is a really good idea, it demands a number of compromises – perhaps one to get out only when the light is really poor.Source

Peugeot’s TT...!!!!

French company Peugeot this week revealed it will put its 308 RC Z coupé into production. The Audi TT rival is based on the same platform as the 308 hatch, but has a wider track. The showroom version will retain the twin bubbles on the carbon fibre top and the curvy rear screen seen on the concept. It will also keep the clamshell bonnet and milled aluminium hoops which support the roof.

Under the bonnet, the RC Z will be powered by the same 1.6-litre turbo engine as the MINI Cooper S – that means an output of around 170bhp. It will also be offered with a less pow-er-ful normally aspirated 1.6-litre unit. Top brass at Peugeot are hoping that introducing the 308 RC Z will help improve the firm’s image among young buyers, just as the 205 GTi did in the early Eighties.
The coupé concept was seen for the first time at last autumn’s Frankfurt Motor Show. A roadgoing model is likely to be unveiled at the same event next year, with an on-sale date in the UK of summer 2010. Prices are expected to start at around £17,500 – putting the Peugeot head-to-head with Volkswagen’s all-new Scirocco.Source

New Mazdas at double

It's not only Mitsubishi and Subaru which are expanding their sports car ranges... Mazda is, too. Confirming our story back in Issue 960, the company is targeting Vauxhall’s forthcoming Insignia VXR and even the BMW M3 with a Mazda Performance Series (MPS) version of its popular 6. And as you can see from our picture of the hatchback, the MPS will be a head-turner, with new spoilers, large air intakes, lowered side skirts and bigger alloy wheels. It’s believed that the model will use a turbocharged version of the 6’s all-new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, pumping out around 280bhp, so it will have the punch to back up the looks.

Like the previous-generation 6 MPS, there will be four-wheel drive, stiffened and lowered suspension and uprated brakes. The car will cover 0-60mph in six seconds, with a top speed limited to 155mph. Mazda is expected to take the wraps off a concept version at October’s Paris Motor Show, where bosses will gauge public reaction. The production model should arrive in 2010. However, unlike its predecessor, which was available only as a saloon, the firm has plans for estate, coupé and cabriolet MPS variants, as well as the hatch.
And Mazda is also readying a hot hatch version of the 2 supermini. Complete with a sporty bodykit, the 2 MPS (in red) goes on sale in late 2009. There’s no word yet on what engine it will have, but it’s thought to be a turbo variation on the existing 1.5-litre petrol with more than 170bhp. Factor in sporty suspension, and it’s a real rival for the Vauxhall Corsa VXR.Source

Reborn Capri

It's the car every Ford fan has been waiting to see! Here’s the new Capri.The original was one of the most famous and best loved models in the firm’s history, and left the scene in the late Eighties. Now, the time has come to reinvent the classic.Affordable coupés are experiencing a real renaissance, and Ford has already proved its talent for building niche products with models such as the S-MAX compact MPV and Kuga 4x4. So the stage is set for the Capri to make its stunning comeback.One thing is for sure – it will not be short of competition. Audi has its A5 and Volkswagen has resurrected the Scirocco, while Toyota is planning a Celica replacement based on Subaru Impreza running gear.There’s also Hyundai’s forthcoming Coupé, plus news that Peugeot has at last given its 308 RC Z the green light for production.

But while there will be an army of rivals, the Capri will certainly have style in its favour. As you can see from our pictures, the new Ford is a real feast for the eyes. If it seems a little familiar, that’s because it takes some cues from the 2003 Visos concept.However, it mixes those with the company’s latest design themes. At the front there are the trademark twin grilles, with a large lower air intake incorporating neat spotlights. Bold Mondeo-style headlamps complete the Capri’s striking look.Its profile harks back to the original model, with a tail-heavy stance and familiar C-shaped rear windows and thick pillars. At the back, strong shoulder lines combine with distinctive tail-lights and a sloping tailgate to create a pert-looking rear. A neat roof spoiler and venturi-style lower bumper finish the design off.Inside, the Capri will offer a 2+2 seating layout, with a cabin inspired by the current-generation Mondeo’s. Under the skin, it’s likely that Ford will follow VW’s approach with the Scirocco, which sits on the Golf platform, and base the car around the Focus. That will mean a front-wheel-drive layout and a similar engine line-up to the family model, with the range topped by the 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged unit from the ST hot hatch.

An RS version, powered by a 3.2-litre six-cylinder motor and offering four-wheel drive, could also be on the cards.With the Focus as a starting point, things bode well for the Capri’s hand-ling. Engineers will give the new model a sporty suspension set-up to ensure excellent grip and agility. There’s even the possibility it will benefit from the Mondeo’s adaptive damping system. This would provide the car with sharp handling or refined cruising ability at the flick of a switch.
As Ford has yet to officially confirm its new Capri plans, we won’t see the car before the next decade. However, it has been reported that the blue oval is planning to reveal a concept version of the coupé at a major motor show in 2009.Source

Mercedes GLK

‘Baby’ M-Class hits the road

The Mercedes M-Class has got a baby brother! These are the first official pictures of the GLK, which was revealed at this week’s Beijing Motor Show in China. The firm’s first compact 4x4 was initially seen as the Freeride concept at the Detroit expo in January. It’s based on the platform of the C-Class compact executive car, and is designed to take on the Audi Q5 (see Page 8), plus the BMW X3 and Land Rover Freelander. The GLK is shorter, narrower and taller than the X3, and it’s slightly heavier – although it’s not lacking in performance.

The entry-level diesel powerplant is a new 2.1-litre four-cylinder common-rail unit, delivering 170bhp. This propels the GLK from 0-62mph in 8.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 127mph, yet returns 40.9mpg and emits 183g/km of CO2. Topping the diesel line-up is a 224bhp 3.0-litre V6, while petrol options include 3.0-litre and 3.5-litre V6s offering 231bhp and 272bhp respectively. Later on, there could possibly be a V8-powered GLK63 AMG, and even a hybrid.
Buyers can specify a sports pack aimed at on-road driving. This brings 19-inch wheels, stiffer springs and a 20mm lower ride height. There’s also a mud-plugging option, comprising 17-inch alloys, more ground clearance and extra body cladding. All cars get 4Matic all-wheel-drive and a 7G-Tronic Touch-Shift automatic transmission. Sales of the GLK will start in Europe in October, but don’t expect to see the car in the UK soon. According to sources, the 4WD system complicates right-hand-drive production – so the GLK is unlikely to reach our shores until 2010 at the earliest.Source

Volkswagen Golf

The latest Volkswagen Golf GTI has plenty of grip – and that’s just from its seats! As this picture shows, the upholstery of the new Pirelli model features a rubber tread pattern to hold you firmly in place.However, there’s more to the newcomer than some snazzy seats and yellow stitching. Power from the GTI’s 2.0-litre turbocharged FSI engine is boosted from 197bhp to 227bhp – and as a result, the 0-62mph sprint time is slashed by four-tenths-of-a-second, to 6.8 seconds.There’s also a colour-coded body-kit, as well as smoked rear light clusters and tinted windows. Unique tail-gate badges complete the changes.

This isn’t the first time the brands have joined forces to produce a special edition. They teamed up to offer a Pirelli version of the original Golf GTI in 1983. It was identified by its unique alloy wheels, which featured the tyre maker’s P motif.The latest car has 18-inch alloys shod with Pirelli P-Zero rubber, and is available to order now. It’s scheduled to arrive in showrooms here in June, and buyers will be offered a choice of three colours: silver, black or blue. Prices start from £22,555.Source

Peugeot 308 SW SE HDi 110

There's more to Peugeot’s family estate car than a big boot! The fact that the 308 SW can carry seven makes it one of a kind, as no other direct rival offers so many seats in a vehicle of this size and type.But while the French firm has been keen to promote the 308 – which launched its ‘8’ generation models – we’ve been disappointed it hasn’t done more to distance the new-comer from the 307, with which it shares underpinnings.Clearly, however, the manufacturer hopes the SW estate version will change our minds. On paper, it looks good, offering plenty of versatility, a spacious interior and new gearbox. There’s a choice of four trims – S, SR, Sport and SE – and the top two have a third row of seats as standard. As you might expect, the extra two places have limited legroom, so they aren’t much use for adults. But they’re fine for children.

The SW’s practicality is a big selling point, as all the seats fold down or can be removed completely to create a huge load space. The process isn’t as clever as some of the fold-flat systems that are used in MPVs, but the ease with which the chairs flip or can be taken out is impressive.The middle seats all slide forward independently, and thanks to clever floor mountings you can have either two or three chairs in the second row. Remove all the back seats and the load space is an incredible 2,149 litres – that’s more than a Mercedes E-Class estate. Access to the boot is through a wide opening, and there’s a separate glass tailgate, which is useful if you have only a few bags to put in or take out. In terms of family-friendliness, the 308 SW is streets ahead of its estate rivals, and strong enough to take on many compact MPVs. The driving environment is good, as well. It’s identical to that of the hatchback, with the same upmarket feel and quality materials. We like the layout, but the fiddly stereo and the shallow cup-holders on the centre console are disappointing.

However, the panoramic roof is impressive, and with more than 5.5 square metres of glass in the panel overhead ensures the cabin is incredibly light and airy. It stretches nearly the entire length of the vehicle, so passengers in the back can enjoy the view above, too. The other big news in the SW is the introduction of a six-speed gearbox. Its arrival can’t come soon enough for Peugeot, as it replaces the widely criticised, vague five-speed transmission. With a positive and pleasingly weighted action, it’s as good as that of leading competitors. And, mated to the 110bhp version of the 1.6-litre HDi diesel engine, the driving experience is considerably improved.

The powerplant itself is refined but quite noisy, especially under load, although it happily keeps up with the traffic, and is punchy enough in gear. There’s decent body control and even in tight bends, the Peugeot is con-trolled and reassuring. Ultimately, the 308 is composed, comfortable and adaptable – and a big improvement on its predecessor.Source

• Rating:

SEAT Leon

Copa load of this ‘super’ Leon – it’s the most powerful car SEAT has ever made!
Under the striped bonnet lies a highly tuned version of the 2.0-litre TFSI engine from the standard Cupra, which pumps out 281bhp. As a result, the Copa completes the sprint from 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds, and goes on to a top speed of 157mph. To cope with this pace, engineers have revised the Leon’s suspension and uprated the brakes. So as well as being faster than the standard Cupra, the Copa should handle better.

SEAT has developed the model to mark the seventh year of its one-make race series, the Supercopa, which supports the DTM German touring car championship. And with its bold stripes and aggressive bodykit, it looks like a racer for the road. A pair of leather bucket seats features inside, while the unique paintwork is echoed on the centre console with two vertical white racing stripes in direct contrast to the black-on-white exterior. Other details include Copa-badged floor mats and alloy pedals on the inside, with black-painted 18-inch alloys and twin tailpipes outside.
The upgrades don’t come cheap, though – the limited edition costs £31,000 in Switzerland, where the Copa is on sale. It’s likely to be cheaper if SEAT decides to bring it here.Source

MINI crossman............coming......!!!

The MINI is toughening up – with this new 4x4 model, on sale next year.Sitting above the Clubman estate variant, it will further develop the MINI line-up, and compete with other lifestyle SUVs such as the Ford Kuga. The model will also rival forthcoming prestige brand 4x4s like the BMW X1, with which it shares underpinnings. Bosses haven’t decided on a name yet, but Auto Express has learned that Crossman is leading the charge as the favoured badge at this stage. As you can see from our pictures – produced using inside information – the MINI SUV takes the look that was debuted by the Clubman and adds a bit more muscle. It features extra body cladding and a raised ride height to provide a more beefy stance and a chunky shape. Details such as the roof rails and side rubbing strips complete the look.

Yet with its bold circular headlights, oversized grille and trademark clamshell bonnet, the newcomer still has the cheeky appearance of the hatch. And that’s vital – owner BMW didn’t want too aggressive a design that would tread on the toes of the X1, or alienate the legions of buyers who are loyal to the MINI brand. While the styling is clearly inspired by the Clubman, the 4x4 has a more conventional layout – there are two proper rear passenger doors, instead of the single ‘Clubdoor’ that features on the estate. These combine with the distinctive twin van-style openings on the tailgate – also seen on the Clubman – to ensure the off-road MINI is the most practical car in the range.As it sits on a stretched version of the standard load-lugger’s platform, the SUV will offer more space inside. That means there will be adequate room in the back for two adults – although thanks to those rear doors, access should be much better. The dashboard and all other interior detailing will be carried over from the Clubman. But the question on the lips of all MINI fans is: will the latest MINI be a proper off-roader, like the Land Rover Freelander? Not really. The SUV will be biased towards on-road use, and won’t sacrifice the agile, driver-pleasing handling for which MINI has become famous. Nevertheless, there will be a full-time four-wheel-drive system, said to have been developed by transmission expert Getrag. Add in the raised ride height, and the car will be reasonably capable over rough terrain – easily rugged enough for most buyers. Top brass are conscious they are introducing an SUV at a time of feverish environmental awareness, so they will make the model the cleanest and most frugal fuel-wise in its class. As a result, every variant will benefit from the Efficient Dynamics tweaks seen elsewhere in the range, with a stop-start system cutting the engine when the car comes to a standstill and a clever alternator control which only charges the battery when needed.

The engine line-up will be carried over from the Clubman, although an entry-level One model isn’t likely to be offered. That means buyers will be able to choose from the 118bhp 1.6-litre Cooper, the 109bhp 1.6-litre diesel Cooper D and the flagship 173bhp 1.6-litre Cooper S. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard, with an automatic box on the options list.Testing of the SUV is well underway – as revealed by our spy shots. But fans will have to be patient, as it will be some time before the final showroom model is ready. As it did with the Clubman, MINI will preview the car with a series of concepts, and the first is expected to be displayed at a major motor show later this year. Production will start shortly afterwards – the off-roader is being assembled at the Magna Steyr plant in Austria because MINI’s factory in Oxford is already at peak capacity – and the car will arrive in dealers here towards the end of 2009. There’s no official word on prices yet, but with the Clubman starting at £14,235, entry-level models are likely to kick off at around £15,500.Source

Vauxhall VXR8

The powerhouse Vauxhall VXR8 is about to get even faster – and this time, it has the storming V10-engined Audi RS6 firmly in its sights. The Luton brand is currently finalising plans to offer a new 7.0-litre version of its supercar-chasing saloon, which will be based on the Australian Holden HSV unveiled at last month’s Melbourne Motor Show. And the British bruiser is expected to be badged the W427 when it arrives in UK dealers in September, carrying a price tag of around £55,000. Although neither Holden nor Vauxhall has revealed a power output for the new machine, unconfirmed reports from Australia claim the engine – which is borrowed from the latest Corvette Z06 – will deliver a massive 570bhp and 640Nm of torque to the rear wheels. As a result, the car would cover 0-60mph in around 4.5 seconds, and go on to an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. These performance figures would put the four-door in the same territory as the RS6, BMW M5 and Mercedes E63 AMG. As with the 6.0-litre standard model, the newcomer has been engineered by Tom Walkinshaw Racing – hence the use of the letter W in the new W427 name.

The motorsport expert will also prepare the car for British roads with bespoke suspension settings. Australian models get General Motors’ latest Magnetic Ride Suspension, but top brass have yet to confirm whether UK versions will be equipped with the same system.A spokesman for Vauxhall told Auto Express; “We are in the early stages with development. The car is going to feature a number of components developed from the racing version, and we need to make sure that everything is tested properly before customer deliveries start.”Source

Hyundai Coupe

It’s a car bought for its aggressive looks and budget price – and it's set to get a boost with this new special edition.Hyundai is taking the sporty looks of its Coupe to another level with the new TSIII. A larger boot spoiler, quad exhaust pipes and unique 17-inch alloy wheels make this limited edition Coupe one of the sharpest models in its class.Styling tweaks continue inside, with a metallic finish on everything from the pedals to the air vents to add to the sporty feeling you get from the quilted sports seats and door trims.

Under the bonnet buyers will find the Coupe’s trusty 141bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine. Sports suspension has been added to narrow the gap between the Hyundai's dynamic abilities and those of similarly priced hot hatch rivals. Climate control, heated front seats and cruise control all come as standard for £19,595. Opt for the regular Coupe and you will pay £18,022.Source

Hands-free

Fed up of uncomfortable hands free kits? Take a look at this...

IN-ear hands-free phone kits can often be more convenient than they are comfortable, especially on long journeys. But this new Bluetrek set-up gets around that by fitting to your car’s sun visor instead.Pairing the Surface Sound Compact to your phone via Bluetooth is simple, as is installation, as the smart flat panel just clips on to the visor. But we did find it an awkward fit on some thicker sunscreens.

You activate the hands-free by angling the arm towards you, although this can put it too close to the driver’s head. Once in use, answering and ending calls is done via a single button, and the flat-panel speaker means callers can be heard clearly. But the same can’t be said for those on the other end, as the transmitted sound was muffled and occasionally broke up.Talk time is 15 hours, but a longer in-car recharging lead would have been useful – in some cars it couldn’t reach the visor. The kit can also be used in the home or office.Source

Nissan GT-R

It’s the performance car everyone’s been waiting for – the Nissan GT-R V-Spec has arrived in Europe.As soon as Nissan’s engineers unloaded their priceless high performance flagship, our spies swooped to get these exclusive pictures. Ready to lap the Nurburgring circuit in Germany, the GT-R V-Spec is set to eclipse the performance of all rivals.Visual clues are subtle, but enthusiasts will spot a unique rear spoiler to help to reduce lift at high speeds, while the alloy wheels have six spokes rather than the seven of the regular GT-R.

While the standard model produces 473bhp, the V-Spec range-topper is tipped to deliver up to 550bhp from its twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6. This is matched by a substantial 150kg weight reduction to make the flagship one of the most hardcore supercars on the planet.The standard GT-R is set to cost around £55,000 when it goes on sale in the UK in March 2009, and the V-Spec will add £20,000-plus to that. It will join the range before the end of next year.Source

Nissan Qashqai

Auto Express was first to break the news of plans for a more practical Qashqai – and now Nissan has released the first official pictures of its new Qashqai+2.The cross-over compact-MPV offers seven seat practicality to go with the standard model’s impressive dynamics and distinctive looks. Designed in Europe and built in the UK at Nissan’s Sunderland plant, the new model will be unveiled for the first time at the British Motor Show in July.

While design themes remain the same, the Qashqai's proportions have been changed to allow for the extra space inside. The wheelbase has been extended by 135mm, the overall length has grown by 211mm and the roof height has risen by 38mm. Amazingly, the +2 is unique from the A-pillar backwards.This makes room inside for a third row of flat folding seats as well as under floor storage areas.Set to go on sale in October, the seven-seat model will be available alongside the existing five-seat Qashqai. Buyers of both variants have the choice of two petrol and two diesel engines in either two or four-wheel drive form.Source

BMW Z4

Metal roof for BMW’s new Z4

Our spies have lifted the lid on the next-generation BMW Z4 – and the big news is that it’s getting a folding metal roof for the first time!Look closely at these prototypes, and you’ll see that instead of a fabric affair, the new Z4 is following in the footsteps of its 3-Series Convertible big brother, plus its Mercedes SLK rival, with a retractable steel top.As our artist’s impression shows, the car will also get a more muscular look. And the convertible has another trick up its sleeve. BMW isn’t content with raining on the SLK’s parade, as it will seek to outgun the Porsche Boxster with a new range of powerful engines for the car. These are likely to include the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six-cylinder unit.

There’s even the possibility that the Z4 will be available with diesel power for the first time, too. And a flagship M model could get the new 4.0-litre V8 from the M3 – although a broad line-up of four-cylinder and normally aspirated six-cylinder petrol powerplants will continue to be offered.
All cars will benefit from BMW’s Efficient Dynamics programme, which helps to cut CO2 emissions and boost fuel economy with features such as an engine stop/start facility. Under the skin, the platform is shared with the latest-generation 3-Series, so the rear-wheel-drive Z4 will continue to provide driver-pleasing handling. Although these prototypes appear to be much bigger than the current model, this is down to the bulky disguise. Peel back all that plastic camouflage, and the newcomer measures only around an inch or so longer and wider than the existing Z4. Our sources have also discovered that production is likely to shift from South Carolina in the US to BMW’s plant at Regensburg, Germany. Sales will start in the UK late in 2009.Source

Dog guard

On guard for pets!

Mesh Dog Guard keeps your pet in check

We all know the importance of using a seatbelt while travelling in a car, but it’s easy to forget your pet’s safety. Thanks to the latest addition to Halfords’ new Advanced range, you can make sure you’re both secure on the move. The Mesh Headrest Dog Guard will keep your pet restrained in the rear.The guard is simply attached to the headrests, and can be fitted to the back seats or, unusually, the fronts. The latter means your dog can travel in comfort on the back bench while not being able to distract the driver.In the event of an accident, the mesh acts as a safety net, restraining your pet in the rear or the boot. It can also be used to protect passengers from loose luggage. The whole mechanism can be constructed and fitted initially in around 10 minutes. Once it’s set up, it can be removed and installed in a few minutes.The mesh comes in three pieces and can be adjusted to fit most cars. Plastic attachments fix the guard in place, so you don’t have to drill any trim, and it should not leave any permanent marks.Source

Nissan 370Z

Finally, here’s concrete proof that Nissan’s next Z car will be called the 370Z. Our spies spotted a pre-production version – and for the first time ever, they got a glimpse of the badge. It read 370Z, confirming that under the bonnet of the two-seater coupé is a 3.7-litre V6. This is the same unit as used by Nissan luxury offshoot Infiniti. As a result, the 370Z promises to be quicker and more powerful than the 350Z, with around 325bhp on tap – up from 309bhp. We have already spotted test mules for the new model disguised as a 350Z (above), but our spy pictures reveal a distinctive new look – and its shark fin-style headlamps have clearly been inspired by those fitted to the company’s Maxima luxury saloon.

The handsome four-door made its debut at last month’s New York Motor Show (Newsweek, Issue 1,005), and the Z car will share its smart projector-style headlamps, with a row of fashionable LED lights included, too.Our shots show Nissan’s designers have taken an evolutionary approach elsewhere, and you can clearly make out the diffuser-style bumper at the rear, complete with twin tailpipes and flush-fitting light clusters. The front end of the car was partially disguised, but expect a characteristically smooth nose, incorporating a large lower air intake. Inside, there’s improved trim and a trio of alloy-trimmed instrument dials ahead of the driver. The 370Z is set to be revealed officially at November’s Los Angeles expo, before hitting UK dealers in 2009. It could also benefit from upgrades from Nissan’s Nismo performance division. The tuning outfit will be familiar to Japanese buyers and enthusiasts around the world, yet is little known in the UK. According to insiders, the firm is planning to widen its reach – but only if it can engineer performance improvements rather than cosmetic enhancements alone.Source

BMW 7-Series

Sensational pictures of the new BMW 7-Series spied by Auto Express

We’ve seen the disguised test mules before, but now our spies have caught BMW with its guard down and snapped the production ready 7-Series without its black plastic cloak.These are the very first pictures of the new German luxury model which isn’t set to go on sale until the end of the year. As you can see, the controversial styling of BMW’s largest model remains, but a new high waistline gives the luxury four-door a more modern look.The newcomer is bigger than the outgoing car, and borrows styling cues from the CS Concept, which debuted at China’s Shanghai Motor Show last year.We’ll get our first chance to see the newcomer in the metal at the Paris Motor Show in September.Source

TomTom Sat-nav

IQ routing will save you time, money and fuel by considering all possible routes and then selecting the one that takes the least time.

While all navigation units promise to get you to your destination, TomTom’s 930T guarantees to do so via the quickest route – and it’s set to shake up the market.The device uses the firm’s IQ Routes software, and calculates journey times according to actual speeds rather than legal limits on roads you are travelling on. Roundabouts, traffic lights and jam hotspots are taken into account, based on data gathered over billions of miles of roads from owners updating their system. So instead of selecting the shortest route, the 930T considers the day and time, and also whether the road is likely to be congested or slower than an alternative.While the ‘intelligent’ route it then comes up with will often be longer, it will get you to where you want to be more quickly thanks to higher average speeds. The unit also has a Traffic Message Channel feature, as well as Advanced Lane Guidance, which shows detailed images of complex junctions.There’s a 4.3-inch touchscreen, and the unit has mapping for 35 countries. What’s more, it incorporates a safety camera database, plus an FM transmitter to relay instructions through the in-car stereo. Add a new, high-quality finish, and it’s a tempting package.Source

SEAT Ibiza

Sleek lines and an all-new style – SEAT’s new Ibiza supermini has just been revealed.Shown in five-door form at a special event at the firm’s factory near Barcelona in Spain, the Ford Fiesta rival follows on from the Bocanegra concept revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Larger than its predecessor, SEAT is describing the fresh faced Ibiza as the most important new model in the firm’s recent history.Penned by ex-Lamborghini stylist Luc Donckerwolke, the hatchback measures 4.05 metres – the old model was 3.97 metres long. As a result it comes with a 292 litre boot, which is the biggest in the class. Some of the hi-tech kit on offer includes a seven-speed DSG sequential manual gearbox and Hill Hold Assist.

Drivers can expect a driving experience to match the best in the class. Company bosses are keen to build on the brand’s sporty image and so have paid particular attention to chassis development. Engineers efforts have been helped by the fact Ibiza is the first model to use parent company VW’s all-new small car platform that will also be used on the next generation Polo.Hot hatch fans will have to arrive for the arrival of the three-door version. Called the Sport Coupe it is almost identical in look to the rakish Bocanegra concept and will be the basis for scorching FR and Cupra models.All versions will benefit from the new cabin, which gets a high quality makeover with soft-touch plastics and excellent fit and finish. A team of engineers was drafted in from sister company Audi and they used the A3 premium hatch as a benchmark for build.It is also packed with technology, featuring an MP3/iPod connection and a universal aftermarket sat-nav dashboard mounting that does away with the usual mess of wires and windscreen suckers.Buyers will initially have the choice of 1.2-litre three-cylinder or 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engines. Initially just one diesel engine will be fitted, the familiar 105bhp 1.9-litre unit.Source

Self-inflating tyres

Never pump up your tyres again with the help of these amazing new tyres.

Imagine never having to pump up your rubber again! That’s the idea of the new Self Inflating Tyre (SIT).It uses the principle of an in-built ‘peristaltic pump’, which is basically a thin tubing of rubber that uses the rolling effect of the wheel to constantly top up the pressure. The system also includes a special valve that ensures the tyre is not over-inflated. Czech-based Coda Development is behind the technology, which is designed to prevent people running on underinflated tyres. Doing so reduces grip and increases fuel consumption, plus the chances of a dangerous blow out. And while auto-inflating tyres already exist for commercial vehicles, they use more complicated and pricier air compressor and pump systems, which limits their applications.Source

Fiat 500

Here's a Fiat 500 that’s got a little bit extra – to boot! The Italian giant is setting its sights on the MINI Club-man with an estate version of its successful small car – and this is how it will look.
Our exclusive pictures reveal the spacious new city challenger,which will hit showrooms in 2010. As you can see, it won’t rely on gimmicks used by its MINI rival, so there are no rear passenger doors, just a practical tailgate.
The extended roofline boosts head-room in the back and frees up more luggage space, making this the most sensible 500 of the range. The compact estate is inspired by the small load-lugger from the Sixties, and could even carry the same Giardiniera badge worn by that model. Fiat will keep development costs to a minimum by using the same front end and wheelbase as found on the hatch. However, a slightly longer rear overhang, a more upright tail and a pair of neat alloy roof rails will set the new model apart.



The Giardiniera won’t be the first 500 estate to appear, though. Italian coachbuilding firm Castagna showed its vision of the load-lugging city car at the Geneva Motor Show last month.The firm has a history of beating manufacturers at their own game, having designed a line-up of MINI estates before the Club-man was officially revealed. The standard 500’s engine range will be carried over to the Giardiniera, so customers will get the choice of an entry-level 69bhp 1.2-litre petrol unit, a more power-ful 100bhp 1.4-litre or a 75bhp 1.3-litre Multijet diesel. Fiat is also believed to be considering a hot Abarth version of the estate if there is sufficient demand. However, the next 500 variant to appear on UK roads will be the cabriolet, as seen in the sketch below. This model is set to be unveiled at the 2009 Geneva expo and hit showrooms late next year. Source

Aston Martin Rapide

Our spies had to be quick, but they still managed to catch the Aston Rapide! These are the best pictures yet of the exciting four-door saloon that has the forthcoming Porsche Panamera firmly in its sights.With stunning looks, V12 power and supercar performance it is set to be one of the most desirable saloons on the road.As you can see, the Rapide is heavily influenced by the DB9 and DBS coupes. With the same aggressive nose, high waistline and low sweeping roofline it’s much more rakish than rivals such as the Maserati Quattroporte. However, a stretched wheelbase means that there will easily be room for four adults.

Clearly visible on this testing mule is the panoramic glass roof. Stretching from the top of the windscreen to the rear window it will help give the cabin a light an airy feel. The Rapide is likely to use the same dashboard as the DB9, while in the rear will be two individual chairs, making the Aston a strict four-seater.Power will come from the firm’s powerful 6.0-litre V12, which should produce around 500bhp. As a result the saloon should sprint from standstill to 60mph in around five seconds and carry on to a top speed in excess of 180mph. There will be a choice of either manual or automatic gearboxes, both with six ratios.No firm release date for the newcomer has yet been released, but expect to see the first cars hit showrooms late in 2009.Source

Lexus IS F

No luxury car range is complete with-out a super-saloon these days – so Lexus has come up with this. The IS F is the Japanese manufacturer’s answer to the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG. It lacks the heritage of its Euro­pean rivals, but can it match the old guard on UK roads?
Judged on looks alone, this version of the IS is a rather sober piece of kit. Lowered suspension and 19-inch alloys give a ground-hugging stance, yet the new front bumper, side sills and large bonnet bulge are surprisingly discreet.Our model’s black paintwork also reduced the impact of the standard anthracite wheels, and on our drive no other road users paid the sporty Lexus any attention. The only details which spoil its Q-car credentials are the two pairs of stacked oval tailpipes that protrude from the back bumper.It’s a similar story inside, because the cabin is pretty much unchanged from the standard IS 250. You do get loads of kit, including sat-nav, sports seats and a 14-speaker stereo, but the new silver trim on the centre console is somewhat underwhelming.

A quick look under the IS F’s bonnet should be enough to restore faith in the brand, because crammed into the engine bay is an incredible 5.0-litre V8. It develops a mouth-watering 417bhp and powers the sal­oon from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds.However, the car’s pure pace tells only half the story, because the high-revving unit is smooth, with a linear power delivery and pin-sharp respon­ses. It’s muted in normal driving, but once you pass 3,600rpm, a valve in the exhaust manifold opens and the volume instantly rises, creating a fantastic V8 soundtrack.Enthusiasts won’t be as happy with the standard eight-speed paddleshift-operated automatic gearbox, though – this is the only transmission option avail­able. Changing ratios takes a fraction of a second, and in full manual mode the torque converter is locked in all but first gear, which provides the feel and speed of a clutchless manual – it even blips the throttle on downchanges. However, the auto transmission can’t match a conventional box for driver involvement.With 505Nm of torque, the IS F is no slouch in a straight line – it has a top speed of 168mph. Yet any self-respecting performance saloon also needs to handle brilliantly. The Lexus’s stiffened suspension is fine at lower speeds, but once you increase the pace, it doesn’t provide the fluency of an M3 or Audi RS4. There is plenty of grip and feedback through the revised steering rack, although the newcomer simply doesn’t gel like its rivals and rides very harshly.While it’s still fun to drive, most of that enjoyment comes from its mighty V8. And in this class, the IS F’s limited handling involvement won’t appeal to everyone – especially when you’re paying £51,000 for the privilege.

• Rating:

RIVAL: BMW M3 saloon
The latest M3 also uses V8 power, but the German four-door is cheaper than the Lexus, at £49,415. It’s also a much more capable all-rounder, and is available in coupé and convertible bodystyles, too.Source

Vauxhall Agila 1.2 club

Small cars with economical engines and low emissions are big news right now – and that’s just perfect for Vauxhall’s all-new Agila.The fresh model is completely different to its boxy predecessor, and looks set to be a genuine contender in the city car class. We’ve already been impressed with it on European roads (Issue 1,000), so we couldn’t wait to try it on congested British streets.The outgoing Agila was essentially a rebadged Suzuki Wagon R+, and the new model is following on in that trend, because it’s almost identical to Suzuki’s recently launched Splash.It still boasts five doors, but within a shell that’s easier on the eye, with a more aerodynamic profile. Inside, there are sharp, two-tone colour schemes and neat touches such as a MINI-style rev counter sprouting from the dashboard on all but entry-level Expression models. However, the hard plastic trim takes the gloss off the overall effect.The cabin is designed to appeal not only to traditional Agila buyers, but also a new, younger and – according to the marketing types – mainly female audience. However, the attention to details falls down in one area, as activating the indicator stalk produces an irritatingly loud audio tone.

Longer

The new Agila is 20cm longer than its predecessor at slightly more than 3.7 metres. Yet it offers a surprising amount of room inside, particularly in the back, where two adults can travel in comfort. The rear is likely to be used by younger passengers, though, so three seats and belts are provided.The boot is comparable with its competitors’, and Club and Design models include a useful false floor. They also get a 60/40 split fold rear seat, which extends carrying capacity when flat to a handy 1,050 litres.There are three engines to choose from. The 64bhp 1.0-litre petrol and the 74bhp 1.3-litre diesel sit right on the 120g/km limit for reduced road tax. However, Vauxhall expects the 85bhp 1.2-litre petrol to account for most sales, and in manual form it returns CO2 emissions of 31g/km.It’s not hard to see why the bigger engine will be the most popular choice, because the 1.0-litre unit is merely adequate, and the diesel (a first in the Agila range) is simply too expensive. The 1.3-litre CDTI is borrowed from the Corsa supermini, and the 74bhp unit is sluggish when compared with the lively 1.2 petrol powerplant.It’s out on the road where the new Agila has made most progress. While the old car was basic transport, it’s now very easy – and fun – to drive, whether on city streets or twisting country routes. The four-cylinder petrol engine is eager, if a bit loud on the motorway, and the gearshift on manual cars is slick and assured.The cheapest Agila is the 1.0-litre Expression at £7,595, but you need to pay £8,895 for a 1.2-litre Club to get extra kit including six airbags, instead of four, MP3 capability on the stereo and electric windows.Vauxhall expects this will prove to be the most popular trim level in the line-up, and it also includes steering wheel audio controls and heated electric door mirrors.However, if you’re going to add all the toys, it’s worth looking instead at the Suzuki Splash. It works out cheaper than the Vauxhall, particularly when you factor in the Electronic Stability Program, which is standard on the Japanese car, yet a £400 option on the Agila. But the Vauxhall is still an excellent choice with plenty of appeal for small car buyers.

• Rating:

RIVAL: VW Fox
The Fox lacks the visual appeal of the Agila, but it’s bigger and its four-seat layout makes for impressive interior room. It’s also solidly built with effective, economical engines and good road manners for a comparable price. Its residuals are also likely to be better than the Agila’s.Source

Chevrolet Camaro

Bye-bye budget cars... Chevrolet is ready to flex its muscles in the performance market. It won’t be unveiled officially until the Detroit Motor Show in 2010, but the stunning new Camaro has already been spied undisguised by our snappers in the US.The styling has barely changed from that of the Camaro concept which appeared at the 2006 Detroit expo. Angular lines, sharp details and bulging panels provide the Canadian-built model with a truly American look.Even the shapes of the front and rear lights are daring and distinctive, showing just how Chevy intends to rival the new Dodge Challenger.In the US, the most popular model in the range is likely to be the flagship V8 variant, but a cheaper V6 Camaro will also be offered.

What’s more, bosses are considering using an efficient four-cylinder power­plant, in anticipation of even higher fuel costs before the end of the decade. The newcomer shares its basic architecture with Vauxhall’s VXR8, so has a rear-wheel-drive transmission. Even though the Camaro will deli­ver Porsche-chasing performance, the firm is promising bargain prices, and the two-door is set to be cheaper than the VXR8. As a result, the V8-powered model will be available for less than £35,000.The Camaro is expected be available in right-hand drive when it goes on sale in the UK in 2010. It will head a rejuvenated Chevrolet line-up that will leave its Korean roots behind and embrace its US heritage.Before the Camaro is officially revealed, the General Motors-owned firm will pull the covers off its Lacetti replacement at the Paris Motor Show in September. Codenamed J300, the new compact model – which is based on the same platform as the next-generation Vauxhall Astra – will be available first as a four-door, while a hatchback variant is due to join the range at a later date.The French event will also see Chevrolet reveal a new MPV concept. This will be the first of many models, as the firm is promising to launch one every 16 weeks until 2012.Source

Citroen C3 Pluriel

Citroen’s quirky supermini cabrio has gone under the knife, and these are the first official pictures.At the front of the revised C3 Pluriel, the brand’s famous badge features larger chevrons than before, while new smoked headlamp lenses and darker indicators have also been added. The bumper now includes a large mesh air intake, and the rear light clusters get a black background to replace the silver trim that was used on the outgoing car.

Improvements to the cabin on all models include a polished chrome finish on the door handles, air vent surrounds and gearlever. The fresh Pluriel also offers a choice of three interior trims and a broader range of exterior colours than its predecessor.The revised line-up will go on sale in time for the summer. Prices aren’t likely to change, so the entry-level 1.4-litre petrol variant will start at £12,995. With its clever retractable hood, the Pluriel can be used as a conventional supermini or with the full-length sunroof open. Owners can even remove the side rails completely to convert it into a proper cabriolet.Source

T-Cut Color Fast Scratch Remover

You'd be hard pressed to find a second-hand car on the road without a scratch on its bodywork. When you’re running a vehicle every day, it’s sure to pick up the occasional blemish. And if the mark isn’t too major, you could try tackling the problem with this new product from top maker T-Cut.The Color Fast Scratch Remover combines a blemish-lifting formula with colour, to help whisk away unsightly marks. It comes in six of the most popular shades – black, red, silver, blue, green and white – and is claimed to incorporate microscopic nanoparticles, which help make the job easier.

We tried the product out on two different-sized scratches. The first were minor blemishes on a blue Citroen Saxo, caused by grit in a polishing cloth. We applied a small amount of Scratch Remover in a swirling motion, and were surprised at the results. After buffing, the mark had gone.The second test was on a scrape on a silver Skoda Octavia. This really was a job for a bodyshop, but the T-Cut still covered up some damage. It’s said to work best on scratches you can’t feel, and our test suggested this is the case. But while the Scratch Remover is a decent product, it’s pricey for 150g.Source

VW Scirocco GT

The all-new Scirocco was the star of this month’s Geneva Motor Show – and that’s helped turn the spotlight on to older variants.The boxy 1974 original is arguably the prettiest version of all those available, but a quick scan of the classifieds drew a blank – examples from that era are more likely to be found among enthusiasts’ clubs and at classic car dealers. So we looked for the more common second generation, which arrived in 1981.Yet even then, we could find only 11 models listed in a nationwide search, and all of these had covered huge distances. A trawl of specialist classic car Internet sites also failed to provide a huge selection, although we did track down this 1990 G-reg example on the ClassicCarsForSale.co.uk website.

The last-of-the-line manual GT has 75,000 miles on the clock and comes with a fresh MoT. It’s incredibly rare, but remember, the 1.8-litre model isn’t fast by modern standards, and the annual road tax bill comes to a hefty £185.A group 14 rating also makes insurance expensive, although the £1,295 price means you should have some cash to spend on running costs. Its rarity – plus the reappearance of the Scirocco badge on a new VW product – means its value is unlikely to drop any further. So, this is a good potential investment for the future.Source

Ford Fiesta RS

Calling all fast Ford fans – get ready for the ultimate Fiesta. Following our sensational pictures of the ST in Issue 994, Auto Express can now give you the best look yet at an even hotter version – the RS.Taking Fiesta performance to new heights, the exciting model will be a stripped-out, lightweight pocket rocket. It’s effectively a hardcore version of the ST, promising few creature comforts but amazing handling and even more driver appeal.he newcomer is set to rival forthcoming high-performance superminis such as MINI’s John Cooper Works, along with existing extreme hot hatches including Vaux­hall’s Corsa VXR. But the Fiesta RS will actually be closest in spirit to the Renaultsport Clio 197 Cup – another car that takes a minimalistic route.

As you can see from our exclusive images, the aggressive bodykit adds bulging wheel­arches, lowered side sills and a rear spoiler to the Fiesta’s already sporty lines.News that a hot Fiesta is on the way will be music to the ears of buyers who had been looking forward to the previous-generation Fiesta RS, previewed at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show as a concept (pictured below right).That project was canned when Ford bosses couldn’t make it economically viable across Europe. RS sales are always biggest in the UK, whereas take-up in France, Germany and Spain is much smaller. These days, conditions are, if anything, even tougher with high steel prices and a strong Euro making it very difficult to make money on a small car – particularly if it’s a flagship performance hatchback.However, thanks to Ford’s increased profitability in Europe, hot models are back on the agenda. The Focus RS has already been given the green light for production (see Issue 992) and the Fiesta version is the next step.Available in limited numbers, the hot Fiesta will have a special-edition feel with a stripped-out cabin featuring racing-style seats, lightweight materials throughout and lots of RS detailing. To keep the weight down, kit will be basic – and that’s great news for performance.It’s likely to use a slightly uprated version of the ST’s potential 1.6-litre turbocharged engine – inspired by the hi-tech range of small cap-acity direct-injection EcoBoost turbo units revealed by Ford at the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year. With that on board, the RS would develop about 200bhp and sprint from 0-60mph in only six seconds, on its way to a 140mph top speed. With its light weight, CO2 emissions and economy should be kept down.It’s unlikely, however, that the Fiesta will follow the forthcoming Focus RS’s lead by having a clever front differential. But it could use Ford’s six-speed twin-clutch semi-auto gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle­shifters, giving the RS the feel of a Junior World Rally Car. Add wider tracks, stiffened springs, uprated dampers and thicker anti-roll bars plus fat, sticky tyres, and the RS promises to handle brilliantly.hile the new Fiesta will reach dealerships in October and the ST is due in 2009, the RS isn’t likely to arrive until 2010, with a potential price tag of around £17,000.Source