DriveBlog

New Fusion is really the new Mondeo

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2012-01-10T15:31:04+00:00

What you see here is the new Ford Fusion. That may be exciting news in the USA. But, when we tell you this is also the new Ford Mondeo to be launched in Europe in early 2013, the interest level on this side of the Atlantic is bound to increase. Details of what will be offered on the new Mondeo will not be announced until nearer its launch, but we can expect the offerings to be similar to the Fusion which comes in petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. Technology will also feature strongly in both markets. As with the latest Focus you can specify, various sensors, cameras, parking assist and radar. (The Ford Focus I am currently testing has all these.) You can also expect the latest Ford SYNC communications and entertainment system, which enables voice-activated communication through a driver’s mobile phone and interaction with the car’s audio system. There will also be MyFord Touch, which allows a driver to interact with vehicle systems through voice control, a touch screen tap or a conventional button.

New small SUV to join Vauxhall range

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2012-01-10T15:17:24+00:00

These are the first official pictures of the new Vauxhall Mokka, a small SUV that will take Vauxhall into a new market sector when it is officially launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Vauxhall say that, despite its compact dimensions (it is just 4.28metres long) it “can accommodate five adults in comfort”. The Mokka has been designed to look very much like an SUV, taking its design cues from bigger SUVs. There will be a choice of diesel and petrol engines when the new model goes on sale in the UK at the end of this year. In line with the trend in the SUV market, the Mokka will come with four-wheel-drive or two-wheel-drive, to reduce cost and improve fuel economy. There will be three engines all with stop/start systems – a 115PS, 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated engine, a 140PS 1.4-litre Turbo and a 130PS 1.7 CDTI turbo diesel.

On starting grid for "world's greatest motorsport show"

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2012-01-03T14:17:55+00:00

More than 80,000 motorsport fans are expected to descend on Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC), UK, on January 14-15 for the Autosport International show. For two decades, Autosport International, which the organisers describe as “the world’s greatest motorsport show”, has welcomed the stars and the cars from the motorsport world. This January, nine of the NEC’s exhibition halls will be packed with displays from the biggest marques in the business. Ariel, BMW Ginetta, Mercedes-Benz, Noble, Porsche and TVR have already confirmed their attendance, with even more supercars on show at Autosport International’s dedicated Performance Car Show, powered by PistonHeads.com. There will also be displays of thoroughbred racing cars, from classics to the latest racing machinery. One of the event’s highlights is the F1 Racing Grid, an exhibition of contemporary Grand Prix cars, many of which have been driven by today’s F1 pilots. The 2012 show will also host a British rally heroes tribute, featuring machinery belonging to iconic rally drivers such as Colin McRae, Richard Burns and Paddy Hopkirk, as well as a special display in honour of triple Formula One World Champion Ayrton Senna. It’s not just about the cars however, as Autosport International 2012 will feature interviews and autograph signings from some of Britain’s biggest motorsport personalities. Following his debut visit in 2011, BBC F1 anchorman Jake Humphrey will return to Birmingham on Saturday, January 14, accompanied by his co-presenter, former Grand Prix star turned DTM German Touring Car racer David Coulthard. The newest home-grown talent on the Formula One grid, Force India’s Paul Di Resta, will also be attending, along with sportscar superstar Allan McNish. The show would not be complete without a dose of high octane racing to thrill fans, and this is provided at the Live Action Arena, the UK’s largest indoor race track. Over the weekend, spectators will be treated to breath-taking stunts and daredevil demonstrations.

Volkswagen Jetta comes out of the shadow

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-12-23T18:21:31+00:00

It started off its life as very obviously a booted version of the ever-popular Volkswagen Golf and has subsequently lived in the shadow of its hatchback sibling. ...So, while the Volkswagen Rabbit (as the Golf is better known Stateside) is popular, the Jetta has always had a strong following, selling at a rate of 110,000 in recent years. ...With recent versions of the Jetta, Volkswagen has been trying hard to strengthen its appeal and establish it in Europe as a model in its own right. ...Part of that may be due to this latest Jetta being rather longer than the previous model. ... The good news for rear seat passengers is that 67 mm of this has gone to give them extended legroom in the back. Interestingly, despite the fact that the Jetta is produced in Mexico, there are significant differences between European and American Jettas under the surface. the European version has a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, electro-mechanical steering and a more advanced engine line up of TSI and TDI diesels linked to manual or DSG gearboxes. ...While the looks would not send students of car design into eulogies of praise about the styling, to my eye this latest Jetta really does look as though it was designed as a saloon from the outset. ...It is becoming a habit, but Volkswagens do seem to have a way of producing interiors that tick the boxes for comfort, practicality and ergonomic layout. Good quality materials (while not impinging on Volkswagen Group stablemate Audi’s territory) and sensible layout mean that this is a very pleasurable driving environment. The Jetta is also a practical four to five-seater and, if the separate boot makes you think it is less of a load carrier than a hatchback, just take a look. ...The combined economy is 58.9 mpg – a figure that is all the more creditable when I discovered that my overall trip-computer average for five days of country and city driving was a remarkable 51 mpg. Carbon dioxide emissions are 126 g/km, putting the Volkswagen Jetta SE 2.0 TDI into Band D for UK road tax. Apart from the name, the Volkswagen Jetta can really deserves to jettison its Golf-saloon image.

Lexus hybrid hatchback aims for green halo

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-12-23T16:00:34+00:00

It is also well equipped and my only quibble would be that some of the minor controls and switches seem to have been located more by convenience than by logic. ...It takes a little getting used to, but by the end of my time with the car I was beginning to become reasonably adept at aiming and clicking. ...It is higher than you might expect, for good reason – to make space for the batteries on this hybrid. ...As with hybrids bearing parent company Toyota’s badge, the start-up procedure for the Lexus CT 200h is extremely simple. ... Normally, the petrol engine doesn’t start at this point and, if you press the accelerator gently the car will take off, almost silently, under electric power. ...As with the Toyota Prius or Auris Hybrid, it is not the sensations of driving a hybrid that are important. ...Unless you open the graphic display showing the motors and power usage, you can only imagine how the on-board computers and sensors are working so hard to achieve seamless switching between electric motor, petrol motor, both power units or charging. ...At tickover the engine is so quiet it is difficult to tell if it is still running, or has handed over duties to the electric motor. ... But, apart from the ride, the Lexus CT200h doesn’t seem to set any new benchmarks for refinement, compared to other similar cars on the market. ...With petrol and electric motors working together to deliver maximum power, acceleration 0-62 mph takes 10.3 seconds and the top speed is 113 mph. As with most hybrids I have driven so far, I find myself struggling to justify the huge amount of technology involved in the hybrid system. ... That’s quite impressive, even in these days of ever improving economy figures, except that the Volkswagen Jetta I drove the very next week returned 51 mpg with no hybrid technology. However, the hybrid system has undoubtedly helped the Lexus CT 200h to achieve a C02 emissions figure of 94 g/km, meaning that it takes its place in Band A for UK car tax.

Chevrolet Orlando: a lot of car for the money

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-12-21T19:00:22+00:00

You certainly get quite a lot of car for your money with the Chevrolet Orlando. For a price range that starts at £16,410 you get a sizeable MPV with three rows of seats taking a maximum of seven people. ...Sure, you get seven seats on the Vauxhall Zafira, for a starting price of just under £14,000, but the Orlando is significantly bigger. ...As so often with vehicles like this, I was also rather concerned at just how close these seats put their occupants to the tailgate and any potential rear-end accident. ...A minor, but annoying problem during the cold weather of my test was the amount of condensation that built up inside the car and on the inside of the windscreen. ...My test car was the Chevrolet Orlando 2.0 VCDi LT, which costs £18,765 (there is also a more powerful 163PS two-litre diesel which is only available on the LT when it is fitted with the auto box). ...The test Orlando was the first car I have driven for some considerable time, where it usually took two turns of the starter to get things fired up. ...Out on the road, the Orlando rides well on good surfaces, but it does bump and thump a bit on the increasing number of undulations, ridges and potholes of our deteriorating tarmac. ...I also found the engine would sometimes ‘bog down’ when you take off from standstill, ruining your smooth-driving reputation with passengers. ...As a result I found it took conscious effort to work out where the front wheels were and what they were doing. ...The official combined fuel economy is 47.1 mpg and I found it settled down on my mixture of town and country driving to about 36 mpg overall. ...If you are looking for practical family transport that can accommodate four or five with a lot of luggage, or six or seven people (where the rearmost two are small and pliable), then the Chevrolet Orlando will offer you a lot for your money. If, however, you are looking for a higher degree of finesse and more reward from your driving, then you will probably want to up the budget and look elsewhere.

Saab: All lives used up?

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-12-20T18:42:59+00:00

The news that Saab is to enter administration is a bitter end to what has been a roller coaster since we ran the premature obituary on this blog exactly two years ago. First there was the proposed takeover by Koenigsegg, followed but the Spyker acquisition. The fact that Saab was not dead was very much underlined by two tests in the year that followed – one of the Saab 9-3X and one of the Saab 9-5. But, this week came the news that Saab had crashed into administration. Despite Autocar’s report yesterday that Victor Muller still held onto some hope that an investor could be found to rescue Saab from bankruptcy, it must be seen very much as an outside chance. Under Swedish law, Autocar reports, bankrupt companies can be revived if an investor is found. It’s widely reported that the sticking point was former owner GM’s refusal to allow a deal to be done with Chinese manufacturers who were reportedly keen to take over the company. It is suggested that GM’s concern was that its intellectual property would end up in Chinese hands.

UK's pothole-proof cars revealed

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-12-21T18:27:52+00:00

Time was when road tests used to talk about taking cars over to France to try them out on poor road surfaces. Britain’s roads in those days were so smooth as to be not an effective test for suspension. ...Britain’s roads are crumbling and for smooth tarmac you need to travel to countries like Spain. I should know having had three tyres destroyed in the the last 18 months by potholes. So, I was more than a little interested in the news that one company has decided to find what they claim to be Britain’s most-pothole proof cars. Of course, that won’t help you with damaged tyres, but it is aimed to highlight the growing problem of damaged suspension and axle components. Potholes.co.uk says that Honda cars are the most resilient to pothole damage. The road maintenance campaign website, set up by the warranty provider Warranty Direct, analysed tens of thousands of policies* to reveal the cars most and least susceptible to damage as reports suggest UK roads are set to become the worst ‘in a generation.’ After Honda, the most ‘pothole-proof’ manufacturers are Toyota and Hyundai, with less than 2% of their cars suffering axle and suspension damage attributable to potholes and other road defects. On the other end of the scale the survey suggests, Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz and (surprisingly) Land Rover models are the most likely to be damaged, with more than 10% suffering damage each year. While the average payout for pothole-induced suspension damage is £309, Warranty Direct and Potholes.co.uk have indentified recent claims as high as £2,420. Anyone can report a road defect and share their story using Potholes.co.uk, which has contact details for councils across England, Scotland and Wales. According to Potholes.co.uk, the Top ten most resilient manufacturers are:

Used family cars

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-12-12T12:45:55+00:00

When buying a motors.co.uk used family car there are a number of factors that will influence which car you purchase. The obvious ones may be fuel economy, price and space, but there are other factors that may seem less important on the surface but could be important when you start to dig deeper. Low emissions could save you an annual bill of hundreds on road tax, not to mention any duty you might feel to the environment. After all, the whole purpose of a family car is to transport your next generation of loved ones. What better way to look after them than to do your part in saving the planet? ...The Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion and the Skoda Fabia Green line both make it into the very highest category. The figures are based on things like fuel economy and CO2 emissions. The Toyota Prius obviously scores highly as do most of the cars that use the green angle as marketing feature. ...If you live in London this is an even bigger consideration due to the fact the lowest banded cars pay no congestion charge. ...With climate change now high on the political agenda, environmental sustainability has now crept into the market for used cars. Environmental concerns may bother some drivers more than others, but as a statistic it would be interesting to see if it raised more anxiety for people with families and therefore people looking to buy family cars. The insistence of manufacturers to start developing green cars mainly in what you would term the family size bracket is an interesting development. Whatever your view, it is healthy financially to be aware of fuel economy and low rate road tax, so, when buying used cars these figures are worth more than a passing glance.

New Ford Focus looks sure to maintain popularity

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-11-04T14:57:17+00:00

Until this new model, the American Focus had been based on the original iteration of the Focus, but, even then, it diverged considerably from that design. The new Ford Focus, we are told, will be a ‘world car’ going on sale around the globe in very much the same form. The one difference will be that – to suit local preference – the USA will have a saloon version, while here we will only have hatchbacks, estates and maybe a convertible in due course. I’ve now had the chance to drive three versions of the new model, starting with the Ford Focus 1.6 Duratec, the 2.0 TDCi and the 1.6 Ecoboost Estate. ...The rear lights look a little over fussy to my eye, the way they sweep down the sides of the car, and that centre panel on the dashboard looks just a little like someone was trying too hard. ...I noted, with a little amusement, that it read the 10 mph sign in the car park of a golf course I pass every day and rebuked me by flashing the 10mph speed limit for the next half mile! ...Similar to the system that I first tried on a Volkswagen Tiguan some years back, this helps hunt down parking places that are big enough for your car and does the steering for the reverse parking needed to get into them. ...In some reports I have read suggestions that the steering is not as good as it was on the previous model. Perhaps I am not as perceptive as some, but I found the steering to be responsive and progressive, with a nice degree of weighting. ...With 140 PS power output It is very slightly slower off the mark than its manual counterpart at 9.5 seconds, compared to 8.9 seconds. ...The estate car body suits the new Focus, but it also combined the more responsiveness characteristics of a petrol engine with reasonable fuel economy. ...The three models I drove represent a pretty good cross-section of the new Ford Focus range and, based on my experience, I am very confident saying the latest Focus model will consolidate its position as a class leader. Prices for the new Ford Focus hatchbacks ranges from £13,995 for the Focus Studio 1.6, through to £24,000 for the Titanium X 2.0 TDCi Powershift.

Does Honda Jazz hit the right note?

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-11-03T14:47:28+00:00

That could, of course, have something to do with the giant sunroof that takes up the entire roof on the Honda Jazz HX! Bathed in sunlight, it is notable that there is quite a bit of hard plastic about the interior – some of it grained and some in a matt finish. ...I never quite lost the nagging feeling that I would welcome even half an inch more backwards movement in the driver’s seat – but I think that was me being pernickety. Even with the driver’s seat at its furthest back setting, there was enough space for me to tuck my knees in the seat behind and headroom is ample. In the now familiar style, the hybrid combines an electric motor with a conventional petrol engine. in the case of the Honda Jazz Hybrid the conventional power comes from 1.3-litre engine delivering 88PS. ...All too often, on these cars, you open the boot only to find that the floor is raised to make space for the battery array beneath. ...Unlike hybrids from the Toyota family, the Jazz engine does come on immediately you turn on the ignition – at least, it did for me. But, to reassure you that it does run on electric you can switch on the display that shows when the internal combustion engine is operating and using fuel and when the car is operating under electric power only. ...A glance at the figures shows that the Honda Jazz HX actually takes 12.3 seconds to reach 62 mph. ...That said, it seems to grip the road well and the limit to cornering comfort has more to do with the lack of lateral support on the seats than loss of adhesion. ...But, like most hybrids I have driven, for all their technology, the economy and emissions seem to fall rather short of what you would expect from all that clever technology. ...Now, that is a very respectable figures but it is no better than many conventionally-powered cars I have driven in recent months. ... Similarly, the carbon dioxide emissions are very meritorious at 104 g/km – but they miss out on free UK road tax by just 4 g/km.

Subaru Outback missing snowy Alps

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-10-17T12:34:43+01:00

Some years ago Subaru handed myself and a colleague the keys for a Subaru Forester at Heathrow Airport and told us to drive to Geneva. It was a trip that earned a new respect for the Forester which, even in those days, looked a tad dated and in need of an interior makeover. ...I should have driven it over a few snowy Alps, to prove its four-wheel-drive prowess, before starting to form my opinion. ...There was not a drop of white stuff on the roads and the only mountain I had to climb was just over 100 metres. In these circumstances, instead of concentrating on the Outbacks ability, my first impressions were formed by the rather nondescript, uninspiring exterior and an interior. Sitting there I had feeling that I had actually travelled, not in an Outback but in Dr Who’s Tardis and was actually back in the 1980s or early 90s. ...The rather unsophisticated looks are not helped by the square after-market style Pioneer sat-nav and in-car entertainment unit, with its garish graphics. ...But being Subaru this is no ordinary diesel – it stays true to Subaru’s ‘boxer’ heritage by having the cylinders horizontally opposed. One of the benefits of this layout is that it keep the weight of the engine low, which Subaru point out, lowers the car’s centre of gravity. It’s a notably quiet diesel engine and, possibly as a result of this low mechanical noise level, it did seem as though road noise was relatively high at times. ...The gearchange, in particular, was not my friend and, as a result, driving was not the smooth, fluid experience it should be. So, the Subaru Outback 2.0D SE is clearly a competent car that will cope with all manner of difficult driving conditions. ...For me, however, the price tag of £28,070 (without the sat-nav) means that there are other, rather more appealing options, in that price bracket.

New BMW 3 Series unveiled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-10-16T16:39:43+01:00

Responding to customer demand (and also with an eye on the lucrative options list no doubt) BMW say they will offer a wider choice of trim and specification than ever before, to enable buyers personalise their car to a greater extent. The emphasis on environmental performance means that BMW claim eight versions of the new 3 Series will have carbon dioxide emission of less than 120 g/km – a claim that becomes even more impressive when you consider that less than 1% of cars on sold in 2000 could get below 130 g/km. When the car goes on sale in the UK in February, there will be just four engines, but with other engines options will be added less than a month later in March 2012. The launch line up starts with the BMW 320d which will be offered in two versions, one of them with BMW’s ‘Efficient Dynamics’ environmental package. This version, costing £28,080, has a combined fuel consumption of 68.9 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of 109 g/km. The smaller petrol engine model is the BMW 328i at £29,060 with a combined fuel consumption of 44.8 mpg and a 0-2 mph acceleration of 5.9 seconds. Top of the launch range will be the £35,525 BMW 335i with a 0-62 mph time of 5.5 seconds and a combined consumption of 39.2 mpg. ...This switch allows a driver to choose from up to four driving modes ranging from ‘ECO PRO’ for economy, Comfort, Sport and Sport+ (the latter only being on sporting models or ones with certain options). In the ‘ECO PRO’ setting, the throttle mapping is changed so that it requires a firmer push on the throttle to achieve the performance. ...Aerodynamics also come into play in the quest for better economy and lower emissions, and, with features like streamlining of the underside of the car, the new 3 Series has a 0.26 drag co-efficient. Automatic versions of the new 3 Series will all benefit from BMW’s new eight-speed gearbox, in place of the previous six-speed. This will result in a wider spread of gear ratios and, significantly, BMW say the automatic versions of the new 3 series are as fuel-efficient, or more so, than their manual equivalents. As we head into winter, the good news is that (no doubt with more than half an eye on the success of Audi with their quattro versions), the 3 series is to be offered with a four-wheel-drive option on some models.

Volkswagen Eos still impresses five years on

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-10-05T15:32:38+01:00

When the Volkswagen Eos was launched in the UK in July 2006, it was one of the early mainstream adopters of the folding metal roof. ...It is perhaps an indication of how right the first Eos was, that the changes in the latest version are largely designed to bring it in line with Volkswagen’s corporate look, plus engine revisions to make it more green. Where some coupé cabriolets look a little ungainly, with a high boot line to leave space for the folding roof, the Volkswagen Eos looks proportioned. It’s only if you look for the clues like the ‘clamshell’ boot lid and the hinge shut lines on the roof pillars, that you can spot it as a convertible. ...“I thought you said it was a convertible?,” he asked quizzically, then sat enthralled as the electronics produced a convertible with a transformer-style metal-and-glass ballet. ...That slowness apart, I particularly like the fact that the Eos has relatively slim pillars for good visibility and an opening glass sunroof, to provide real flexibility in open-air motoring styles. ...The performance of this particular model is not going to get pulses racing, but neither is it going to leave you toiling in the slow lane. Perhaps it is paying the penalty for extra weight of the complex roof and gear, but there were times when I was looking for a little more urge than was on tap. But, this is the budget model in the Eos range and there are 12 other models for those who want their motoring at a brisker pace. ...But, with its stop-start system and other economy tweaks, the Eos 1.4 TSI Bluemotion achieves a combined fuel economy of 45.6 mpg. Carbon dioxide emissions are down from 157 g/km on the non-Bluemotion model to 144 g/km dropping this model to Band F for UK car tax. ...Do you go for the coupéThis entry-level Volkswagen Eos 1.4TSI Bluemotion Or, do you go with the recently revived Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet, which is based on the same floorpan and has a fabric roof. ...At £23,130 the Volkswagen Eos 1.4 Bluemotion is a little more expensive than some of the other offerings in this class, but to me it feels more special and more rewarding, plus it is likely to hold more of its value when it comes time to sell.

Kia Picanto asserts itself in supermini class

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-09-23T15:25:57+01:00

I have driven a number of Kias recently (as you can see if you click the Kia link in the ‘tag cloud’ towards the bottom of the right sidebar). ...Yes, it may not have the chic appeal of the Fiat 500, or a Mini, but it does have a crisply-designed fashionable suit of clothes that stands comparison with the likes of the Ford Fiesta. Inside, although it is clear that the interior trim materials are from the budget end of the scale, the Picanto has a commendably restrained design that shuns the “cheap hi-fi” look of some other budget Far East cars. This may not be a particularly exciting place to sit, but it is pleasant and comfortable for the price and the layout is good. ...With four doors (OK, five with the tailgate if you insist), compared with two on many of its obvious competitors, the Picanto is a very practical motor car. ... However, this is a small car so – if the driver has the seat slid well back – adults are going to find their knees a bit crushed in the back seat. ...The power and performance figures of the Picanto might raise fears of a Spark repeat, with only 68 bhp on tap, producing a 13.9 second 0-60 acceleration time. But, that is not only 1.9 seconds quicker than the previous model, it also delivers its limited performance much more willingly, making this a far more pleasant car to drive. ...Kia have also managed to just squeeze the CO2 emissions below the tax threshold to 99 g/km, meaning your UK tax disc is free. ...The one flaw in the driving dynamics – which will take just a little getting used to – is the over-eager brakes that tend to snatch a little too quickly. At £7,995 the Kia Picanto is a very honest budget-priced car, which deliver budget-priced motoring in a practical manner. But while your head is whispering Kia Picanto in your ear, your heart may be telling you to look at all the attractive used cars you could buy for the same money. What may silence your heart, though and help your head win (if a new car is really your desire) is that the Kia Picanto comes with a seven year warranty.

New British car maker debuts at Frankfurt Motor Show

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-09-13T21:49:10+01:00

It’s not often that a new car maker joins the motor industry elite, let alone a new British car maker. But, there’s a new British name over one of the stands at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Eterniti (sounds a little like Infiniti the up-market Nissan brand, doesn’t it?) plans to launch next year with the Hemera – a prototype of which will be on the Frankfurt stand. ...Based on the Volkswagen Group’s large SUV platform (as used for the Touareg and the Porsche Cayenne), the company says the looks will be very much as the prototype, but the final version will have different LED headlights. The body panels will all be unique and made from carbon composite and the interior is “almost 100% unique” to Eterniti. The new company is backed by international investors and based in London where there will be a showroom and workshop where the bespoke models will be hand build “to any specification required”. ...The target for the Eterniti Hemera is “wealthy car buyers, particularly in major cities, global wealth centres and emerging markets ranging from London to the Asia-Pacific region”. The business aims to help satisfy a growing demand for additional luxury and personalised specifications among wealthy car buyers, particularly in major cities, global wealth centres and emerging markets ranging from London to the Asia-Pacific region. Eterniti claim that they are the first car maker to enter the luxury SUV market, for which Bentley, Maserati and Aston Martin (with their Lagonda brand) are known to be considering new models. The Eterniti engineering team is led by Alastair Macqueen, who was responsible for the development of the Jaguar XJ220 supercar to production and has won the Le Mans 24-Hour race three times, with both Jaguar and Bentley. Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert will have an active involvement in developing Eterniti vehicles as well as serving as an ambassador for the brand. Plans for another SUV and a high-performance car which could form the basis of a racing programme are currently being developed.

Jaguar unveils 'E-type' C-X16 Concept

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-09-07T09:06:49+01:00

Jaguar has today released the first details and photos of the C-X16 concept – the car that is aimed at taking the Big Cat back into the market it used to dominate with the legendary E-type (or XKE as it was known Stateside) – ahead of its world debut next Tuesday at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. ...But the clue comes in Jaguar’s announcement which kicks off by saying: “Looking firmly to the future, the C-X16 marks a new chapter for Jaguar”. At the moment Jaguar is focussed on appealing to a new, younger customer base and constantly looking over its shoulder to past glories simply doesn’t fit with this aim. The C-X16, therefore, is designed to be a thoroughly modern two-seater coupé and Jaguar say they have sought to combine “searing” performance and beautiful styling. ...“With the C-X16 we have moved the current award-winning design language on to the next generation, creating a car that is the very essence of future Jaguar performance.” Under the muscular clamshell bonnet is a next-generation supercharged V6 petrol engine producing 380 PS and 332 lb ft (450 Nm) of torque. Already boasting a high specific power output of 126 PS-per-litre, the performance of the C-X16 is further supplemented by a Formula 1-inspired hybrid boost system with a steering-wheel mounted button for on-demand acceleration. Integrated into the eight-speed gearbox is a motor generator which draws power from a 1.6kWh battery pack mounted behind the seats for ideal 50:50 weight distribution. Charged through a brake energy regeneration system, the batteries allow the motor to provide an additional 95 PS (70 kW) and173 lb ft (235 Nm). Mounted in an aluminium chassis structure, the result is 0-62 mph acceleration in 4.4 seconds, a top speed of 186 mph and overtaking-range acceleration from 50-75 mph of 2.1 seconds. The C-X16 is also able to travel at speeds of up to 50 mph under electric power alone and has CO2 emissions of 165 g/km. The C-X16 measures 4,445 mm in length, 2,048 mm in width and 1,297 mm in height and has a wheelbase measuring 2,622 mm. ...Find your perfect motor at www.motors.co.uk and use the local search feature to find fantastic deals on all types of new and used cars including 4x4's, sports cars, family cars, estates and city cars.

Ford Evos concept car points to future

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-08-30T10:29:05+01:00

Drawing a lot of the attention on the Ford stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show will be the Ford Evos Concept, which Ford has said will guide much of its future design work. Could it also be the basis of a future mass-market sporting coupe – a market that Ford has not managed to dominate since the long-running Capri (despite models like the Probe, the Cougar and the Puma)? One of the most distinctive features are the gulling style doors, a feature that is also graces Peugeot’s HX1 concept at Frankfurt. Trick doors add a bit of theatre to concept cars, but the reality is that the production model usually appears with conventional doors. ...Ford says that Evos ‘embraces a new generation of driver interaction and awareness” and talks of providing a “personal cloud” of information – something clearly inspired by internet technologies. “The possibilities are fascinating when we explore how to enable a seamless lifestyle between home, office and car linked by access to the driver’s personal information,” says Paul Mascarenas, chief technical officer and vice president of Ford Research and Innovation. With information from the cloud, the vehicle can provide the same connected lifestyle the driver experiences at home or office. ...The Evos, for example, could automatically play the same music or news program that was just streaming at home, or heat or cool the interior to an ideal temperature before the driver gets in. Wireless communication with devices in the home could close the garage door and switch off the lights automatically as the car pulls away. The Ford Evos Concept has a plug-in hybrid powertrain with an electric motor and petrol engine working together or separately, in the familiar manner of the Toyota Prius. ...Ford say cloud connectivity would enhance performance and efficiency by selecting the best combination of powertrain modes for any given journey. ...With the length of a typical C-car, but with width of a CD-car, Ford describe the Evos Concept as having “a powerful, sporting stance”. ...The front end has the new face for Ford featuring with a trapezoidal grille mounted higher on the car “creating a confident, more premium look”.

Jaguar XF refreshed

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-08-31T19:09:34+01:00

But, truth to tell, you really need to have the old model and the new model parked side-by-side to spot most of the changes. To my eyes, the revised headlights, day running lights, re-profiled wings and a larger, more upright grille neatly updates the original Jaguar XF and gives the car the looks it should always have had. ...There are changes to the trim, higher definition colour display screens, a revised steering wheel and new ventilation controls, plus the real anoraks will notice that the proximity switch for the glovebox has been replaced with an actual button! ...On the engine front, the biggest news is the 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel which is expected to make up to 60% of UK XF sales. This turbodiesel has been seen before in cars like the Land Rover Freelander and the Mondeo, but it has been substantially revised for the longitudinal layout of the Jaguar. ...As to how it sounds, I have written in my notebook: “How do they get a diesel to sound so undiesely?”, Ignoring the questionable addition to our vocabulary, that makes the point well. ...As a result the Jaguar maintains its reputation for almost imperceptible gearchanges whether you select the normal, or sports settings on that selector dial that rises, theatrically, from the centre console. ...Most of the time, however, you will find that the XF choses its own gears so well that – only in the most press-on occasions on twisty B-roads – did I use the paddles to drop down a cog on the over-run into corners. ...My real-life figure was some way behind, but still creditable for a car in this class with an average in the upper 30s for city and country driving. At 149 g/km, carbon dioxide emissions lag a few grammes behind some equivalent models from other prestige manufacturers – but it certainly shows how motor manufacturers have progressed. ...Power output is 190 bhp which translates into a quoted eight seconds for the 0-60 mph sprint, with a top speed of 140 mph. ...Combine that with good suspension set up and nicely balanced handling and you have a car whose keys will seem to be drawn towards your hands every time you go out for a drive. Prices for the Jaguar XF 2.2D range from £30,950 for the 2.2D SE to £42,050 for the 2.2D Portfolio, which pitches it close to and maybe even slightly above the equivalent German opposition.

Land Rover's Defender concept

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-08-31T15:55:44+01:00

How do you replace something as iconic as the original Land Rover, more recently known as the Land Rover Defender? Well, the impending Frankfurt Motor Show will provide Land Rover’s answer – the Land Rover DC100 concept. It’s described by Land Rover as “a modern interpretation of the iconic Land Rover Defender”. The company has also confirmed that production is planned for 2015. Given that the Land Rover Evoque made it into production looking remarkably similar to the LRX concept, what we are looking at is quite likely to be the vehicle that will appear in four years time. However, Land Rover’s Design Director Gerry McGovern, plays that down, saying: "Replacing the iconic Defender is one of the biggest challenges in the automotive design world; it is a car that inspires people worldwide. This isn't a production-ready concept but the beginning of a four-year journey to design a relevant Defender for the 21st century."

BMW shows new i brand

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-07-30T19:54:08+01:00

BMW has shown two concepts from its proposed new i brand of low-consumption, low-emission cars. The BMW i3 concept is planned as the first series-produced all electric car for city use, while the BMW i8 concept is a sport car with plug-in hybrid technology. The aim of the i8 is to combine a sporting driving experience with low fuel consumption and emissions. The BMW i3 i(closest to the camera) is driven purely by electric power. BMW says it is “well-resolved, all-round concept, with every detail conceived and optimised to fulfil its eventual purpose”. This tends to confirm that the i3 (and, indeed, the i8) will make it into production in a form pretty close to the concepts – although the transparent doors below the waistline are likely to go on the grounds of safety (and privacy perhaps?). The i3 has its electric motor mounted over the rear axle. It develops 170 hp, with acceleration from 0-60 kph (37 mph) in four seconds and on to 62mph in less than eight seconds. So, in performance terms, this is no milk float! The BMW i8 concept combines the electric drive system from the i3 (this time mounted over the front axle) with a three-cylinder internal combustion engine producing 220 bhp. Together, they give the i8 a 0-62 mph time of under five seconds, while achieving a European cycle economy of 94 mpg. It is also capable of driving around 20 miles on electric power alone.

Volkswagen's Up!

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-08-22T16:45:05+01:00

Volkswagen has released the first photos of its new Up! in production form, prior to the debut at the Frankfurt motor show next month. The new model is an entirely new design with which Volkswagen have aimed to offer maximum space in a very small footprint. The Up! is just 3.54m long. There will be three versions with the names “Take Up!”, “Move Up!” and “High Up!”. Power will come from a new generation of three-cylinder engines with outputs ranging from 60 PS to 75PS.

Porsche to unveil new 911

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-08-23T16:32:12+01:00

Porsche is to unveil the new 911 Carrera at the Frankfurt Show next month. This will be a completely new generation of the iconic Porsche model that was first launched in 1963. Porsche have been careful to maintain the 911 image with this new car, keeping the unmistakable silhouette, despite increasing the wheelbase by 10 centimetres with the aim of improving stability and increasing interior space. The overall dimensions of the car are about the same, however. As tradition dictates the engine stays in the back and is a flat six-cylinder configuration of 3.4 litres, delivering 350 bhp – or 400 bhp in Porsche Carrera S form which has a larger 3.8-litre capacity. Another important change is the lighter body which features “intelligent aluminium steel composite construction”. The result is a 45 kg reduction in weight, yet it is more rigid than the previous model.

Audi confirms A8 Hybrid

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-08-24T16:23:13+01:00

Audi has confirmed that it is to put a hybrid version of its Audi A8 flagship into series production, starting from the beginning of 2012. The first Audi A8 hybrids will reach the UK late next year. The A8 hybrid will have a four-cylinder petrol engine and will deliver 246 PS with CO2 emissions of under 148 g/km. It will be capable of running on electric power, with no tailpipe emissions, at speeds up to 62 mph. The modified 2.0 TFSI engine will have a power output of 216 PS. Added to the power from the electric motor this will give the new A8 Hybrid a 0-62mph time of 7.7 seconds. The combined fuel consumption figure is expected to be in excess of 44 mpg.

Fiat shrinks 500 engine for economy

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-08-20T11:48:29+01:00

There’s a definite thrum to the engine note and the sound track is quite alien to those of us brought up on four, six, or even occasional eight cylinder soundtracks. ...So rather than go through the full story, you can simply look back to our original test of the Fiat 500. Let’s just say the design is as cute as ever, with lines that pay homage to the original 500. ...The power output from the two in-line cylinders is 85 bhp, It’s an interesting comparison that the Hillman Imp with its identically-sized engine only managed 55 bhp in its more sporting models – so the Fiat has notably more power squeezed from its small capacity. ...Even in the stern test (for a small engine) of accelerating hard out of an uphill dual-carriageway roundabout, this little car managed to keep pace with much more powerful cars – albeit not being driven with the same determination! Accelerating 0-62 mph takes 11 seconds, which is a whole lot better than, for example, the 15 seconds it takes in the slightly larger-engined Chevrolet Spark 1.0. It may be because I began my motoring life driving small engined cars and (on student finances, trying to eke out maximum miles per gallon) that I actually quite enjoy motoring at the micro end of the scale. ...The Fiat TwinAir Pop test car has a quoted combined consumption figure of 68.9 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of 95 g/km – meaning you pay nothing for your UK road tax. I am quite used to the gap between official combined figures and the actual economy, but I was disappointed with my figures. On a series of city and country drives the trip computer gave my average consumption as 42 – still creditable, but some way from the official combined figure. Maybe I was just revelling in driving the TwinAir, or maybe I should have used the ‘Eco’ button more. ...It maybe lacks the dynamic refinement of other superminis, but it is enjoyable to be with and enjoyable to drive at least in the relatively short five-days acquaintance I had with it. The price of the Fiat 500 TwinAir Pop is £10,865 and the test car had the addition of £525 air conditioning, Bue & Me hands free at £265, 15-inch allow wheels at £315 and a rather nice leather steering wheel with audio controls for £105.

Peugeot 508: Nice car, shame about the gearbox

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-07-26T15:07:58+01:00

There we were, four motoring enthusiasts, talking in quite animated terms about the Peugeot 508 SW that was parked in front of us. ...From the first time you inspect the 508 you can tell that Peugeot have tried very, very hard to make this car emerge from the blandness that has overtaken the French marque in recent years. ...But, in recent years I have found it hard to feel any joy when picking up the keys to a Peugeot. More often than not, I have struggled to find a comfortable driving position and even when I have headed out onto the open road, the experience has left me less than moved. ...Apart from one in our group who was apparently unhappy about a little bit of the styling (it seemed to involve the line of the bonnet and the front wing) we gave it a ‘thumbs up’ all round. ...There are very obvious signs of real determination by Peugeot’s design team to make this a stylish, upmarket interior that distances the 508 from its predecessors. It maybe doesn’t get into the Audi class for distinguished interiors – but, it’s a lot closer than you might imagine from Peugeot’s more recent offerings. ...The SW, as already noted, stands for station wagon, the e-HDI means it has what Peugeot call ‘micro-hybrid’ technology (with stop-start to cut fuel consumption), while the EGC stands for ‘electronic gearbox control”. ...It was only when I got the Peugeot out on the open road that I realised that this was very much the same powertrain that was fitted to the Citroen C5 I drove recently. ...As with the Citroen, I could get slightly less hesitant changes if I used the manual steering-wheel paddles, but smooth it was not. When they weren’t nodding in sympathy to the gearbox, my passengers were praising the 508 for its space, both front and back and also its comfort and refinement. ...According to the trip computer, I averaged just under 40 mpg for a mixture of city and country driving, which seems pretty good for a reasonably large estate car. ...Summing up, I was very impressed with the Peugeot 508 SW and it would probably have got a gold star were it not for that issue with the semi-automatic gearbox and the power loss when changing gear.

Kia Sportage strengthens its appeal

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-07-20T15:35:34+01:00

The new Kia Sportage is a rather more extrovert design that has been winning awards since its launch in November last year. ...Much more stylish and modern (although some of the plastics are obviously from the budget end of the scale) the overall result is quite appealing – especially with the generous equipment levels on the test car, the Kia Sportage 3 1.7 CRDi Ecodynamic. ...The indicators don’t seem to be able to cope with British roundabouts and, unless you remember or notice the tell-tale, you are liable to drive down the road still indicating left. Following an increasing trend, the road test car – although presenting a 4x4 image – is actually only front wheel drive. Nissan were one of the trend-setters in this respect with their Qashqai first appearing in two-wheel-drive, then adding a 4x4 version. Ford did the opposite with the Kuga, starting with 4x4, then going to two driven wheels and, shock of shocks, you can now get two wheel drive Land Rover Freelanders and the new Range Rover Evoque. ...If a customer wants the off-road look, but without actually venturing off the black stuff, then driving only two wheels is going to save money. ...On the Sportage Ecodynamic that, the fuel-sipping 1.7-litre diesel and the now-common stop-start system, really does produce some impressive results. ... More surprisingly, the trip computer showed my real-time economy hitting 48 mpg and – at the end of five days – I had recorded an impressive 45 mpg overall. ...The ride quality is good and it feels well balanced and responsive, although enthusiastic drivers would crave a little more feel from the steering. ...The rear window is a little small and – if you sit tall – you have to bow your head a little to see any distance behind. ...So, why should you go for this rather than one of the other two-wheel-drive, off-road-style vehicles on the market? Well, apart from the edge on economy, it might be that your eyes light on that sticker in the back window which proclaims “7-year warranty”.

Mazda's diesel sport impresses

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-07-11T11:29:20+01:00

Mazda is best known in the UK for its sports cars – the MX-5 and the RX8, the latter not currently being imported into Europe because of difficulties in meeting European emission standards with its Wankel rotary engine. ...The Mazda 2, for example, is often thought of as a slightly different Ford Fiesta and, unless you are a Mazda enthusiast, it is all too easy to forget the Mazda 3, Mazda 5, Mazda 6 and CX-7. Mazda has decided to do something about this, by giving their cars a stronger brand image and greater appeal. ...I always feel a little uneasy when I see a “Sport” badge on a diesel, having experienced similar promises in the past that have failed to deliver. ...Japanese manufacturers were a little later than their European counterparts to embrace diesel power, because their biggest export market – the United States – is not hot on diesel cars. ...Remarkably, that is just 0.3 seconds slower than the Mazda Sport with the 2.5-litre petrol engine. ...I always reckon the acid test is whether you forget that you have a diesel engine under the bonnet. ...As usual, it is difficult to match that figure in everyday driving conditions and the trip computer noted my average over the period of the test as a whisker under 40 mpg, which is still creditable for a car of this size. ...In the five days I had with it, the Mazda 6 Sport experienced the usual mixture of city driving, dual carriageway cruising and country roads. That responsive engine and sharp steering make the Mazda 6 Sport 2.2 Diesel an enjoyable car around town and on dual carriageways. ...Although I found I could make quite good progress on these, I did feel it was rather harder work than many other test cars. ...This is a good four, or occasionally, five seater – but taller passengers might have to do some horse-trading of legroom between the front and back seats. Although there is a little bit of a sill to heave bags over, the boot is particularly accommodating with 510 litres of space with the rear seats up and 1702 with them folded.

Buying a car? Choose wisely.

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-07-10T11:03:15+01:00

With fuel prices having risen 70% since 2000 and nothing but further increases in prospect, the chances are your choice of used car will have fuel economy pretty near the top of the list. ...Whereas I used to praise cars for fuel consumption in the mid 30s, I now reserve that praise for new cars that return figures in the mid 40s. ...That alone might have you rushing for your chequebook, if you are lucky enough to find one on the used car lot. But, bear in mind that my real-time mileage per gallon figures on the Prius, Auris and the disappointing Honda Insight hybrid, were all around the mid 40s. ...So, at least for the moment, there are many simpler, conventional cars out there that deliver similar mpg figures and, arguably, a better driving experience. Take, for example, the Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion, which I drove just a few weeks after my most recent experience of the Prius. ... It was quite a remarkable performer and, had I driven it more sedately, I am convinced my 44 mpg overall fuel consumption would easily have matched, or beaten, all the hybrids. ...So much so that I admit I did pedal it quite hard, but I still achieved up to 44 mpg in ‘real life’ driving conditions. ...In my experience it is clever, but does not yet produce sustained economy figures that really justify all that technology. ...Will the extra few miles per gallon add up to enough, over your yearly mileage, to justify the extra purchase and fuel cost? ...But, if you do just 10,000 miles a year, you may well be better to stick with an economical petrol engine. ...I have come across a few diesels recently that have been so eagerly tuned to produce outstanding economy that they are a pain to drive. If I had bought the Citroen C5 eHDi 110 Auto on the basis of its 61.4 mpg or the Mercedes-Benz B180 CDI SE for its 54.8 mpg combined economy, without finding that they are not too great to drive, I would be pretty upset.

Hyundai turns up the appeal with small MPV

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-04-24T17:25:23+01:00

The interiors looked like they had been designed by the producer of a budget-priced hi-fi and just to make sure you felt ill at ease, the indicators were on the wrong side. ...The Hyundai ix20, launched in November last year, was designed and developed in Europe. it is also manufactured in Europe, in a factory in the Czech Republic Hyundai say their aim with the ix20 was to produce a car “with the style of a supermini, the space of an estate car and the economy of a city car”. ...The ix20 does have the looks of a modern supermini. indeed it looks like it has been designed using quite a few of today’s superminis as inspiration! To my eye the result looks a tad derivative with a definite nod to the Ford Fiesta in the resulting package. ...Well, passengers are well catered for and I even found sufficient space to tuck my knees behind all but the furthest back settings of driver’s seats. ...But, further examination reveals that there is quite a bit of concealed space under the removable boot floor. ...My test car was the Hyundai ix20 CRDI which, as the D suggests, is the diesel version. In this form, the ix20 boasts a combined fuel consumption of 65.7 mpg, with the trip computer telling me my real-time economy was hovering around the mid 40s. ...Manufacturers have found that this is the best way to package maximum passenger and load space in a short vehicle. ...On this car it took a long time to produce cool air and even then it was not that cool. ...The Hyundai ix20 CRDI comes in three different trim levels – Classic, Active and Style – starting at £13,445 and rising to £15,445. Considering how well-equipped it is and factoring in the five-year warranty, it’s a package that will undoubtedly appeal (possibly with the presumably livelier and quieter petrol engine) to Hyundai’s identified target audience – young families.

Golf downsizes engine for greater economy

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-06-24T15:20:02+01:00

So, when I saw that my road test car was a 1.2-litre, I immediately assumed I was in for a joyless five days at the wheel of a pithless wonder. ...The 1.2-litre Golf is part of Volkswagen’s strategy of downsizing to smaller engines in the continuing search for more better economy and lower emissions. I’ve driven Volkswagen’s 1.4 TSI engines before, but can a 1.2 TSI possibly work in this size of car? ...One puts out 85 PS, but the car I had on test was the Golf S 1.2-litre TSI 105PS which as the name implies has a power output of 105PS. ...Looking back there were just one or two occasions over the whole five days when the engine’s small capacity was apparent. ... Usually it was because I had let the revs drop low while climbing a hill, meaning little or no help from the turbocharger. ...Equally, with its nicely balanced handling, precise steering and good body control, the Volkswagen Golf S 1.2 proved to be surprisingly enjoyable on country B-roads. The ride quality and refinement is good, although I did notice that road noise can become a little intrusive on certain surfaces – but I came to the conclusion that was partly because of the general hush of the car for the rest of the time. ...The combined fuel consumption figure is 49.6 mpg and I found that my real-life figures ranged around 37 to 44 mpg for a series of trips including city streets, country roads and dual carriageways. ...You can have your Volkswagen Golf S 1.2 TSI with three, or five-doors (like the test car). It really does makes for a more practical family car to have those extra doors, but it also costs £585 more. ...Although you can argue about the need for a reversing camera on a compact car like the Golf, this one is really neat. ...True, the Bluemotion produces better mileage per gallon and lower emissions (so much so that the Chancellor will give you a free tax disc), but, at £16,434, the Golf S 1.2-litre TSI 105PS costs a significant £2,230 less.

Gearchange takes edge of Citroen C5

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-06-10T16:02:29+01:00

It’s a mark of Citroen’s success in revitalising their image that I didn’t have the usual wave of apathy when I saw a Citroen C5 on my road test list. ...Where the Citroen was avant garde to the extent that it looked like nothing else on the road, the Citroen’s only Gallic quirk in the styling is the complex double curvature rear screen. ...The e-HDi is described by Citroen as ‘micro hybrid technology’, which refers to the rather clever way this diesel shuts down when not needed, yet restarts instantly. ...It is comfortable place to be too, although the seats – or maybe I should call them chairs – are a little soft for some tastes. ...I also felt that Citroen had been a bit over-eager to shift controls to their unique fixed steering boss (it doesn’t turn with the wheel). ...I was just beginning to feel that – with this supple ride and well-silenced diesel engine, this was a rather refined motor car, when it happened. ...It felt like someone had pressed the brake pedal, as the Citroen slowed down – even though my foot was still on the accelerator. ...It is at its worst when the gearbox is changing from first to second gear, when it feels like you have hit a giant ‘flat spot’. ... While it is worst from first to second gear, a similar loss of power afflicts every gearchange right up to sixth. ...As I tried to accelerate out of the roundabout the gearbox decided to change and I glanced nervously in the rearview mirror concerned that my tailgating friend might not slow down in time. ...You might also have to get used to a little bit less self-centring than you are used to at low speeds – something which I found quite ironic, given that the famous Citroen DS actually had powered self-centring in an era when powered steering itself was a rarity. ...It’s a shame that my test of the Citroen C5 was so completely overshadowed by this gearchange issue, because in most other aspects the car impressed. It proved to be a relaxing and effortless motorway cruiser, where gearchanges are much less of an issue than in city driving or cross-country routes on give-and-take B-roads.

Mini range expands: Now, the coupe

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-06-06T20:39:26+01:00

For the first time the Mini range gets the addition of a two-seater coupe, which Mini say gives the ‘ultimate in go-kart feeling’ to the already agile Mini handling. The coupé, seen here still wearing some disguise around the all important coupe roofline and boot, has a cutaway roof, which Mini describe as a “helmet roof”. From the pictures it appears there is a wrap-around rear window on the tailgate plus a quarterlight between it and the door. This should make for reasonably good visibility, in contrast to many small coupés with heavy rear pillars. The Mini Coupé is strictly a two seater with some small stowage space behind the seats and there will be an ability, to extend the boot into this area for longer loads, or bulkier sports gear There is an active rear spoiler, which pops up at higher speeds, in addition to the spoiler on the roof. The Mini Coupé will be available with the more powerful petrol and diesel engines in the Mini range, with outputs ranging from 122 hp through to the 184 hp Cooper S Coupé and the Mini John Cooper Works Coupé with 211 hp.

Volvo tests new technology to cut fuel consumption 20%

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-06-01T19:41:37+01:00

Volvo says it is testing new flywheel technology that it says will not only make a four-cylinder engine feel like a six-cylinder, but will also reduce fuel consumption by 20%. This autumn, the company says it will be one of the world's first car makers to test the potential of flywheel technology on public roads. It has received a grant of 6.57 million Swedish kronor (£5.6 million) from the Swedish Energy Agency for technology to recover kinetic energy from braking in a joint project with Volvo Powertrain and SKF. "Our aim is to develop a complete system for kinetic energy recovery,” says Derek Crabb, Vice President VCC Powertrain Engineering. “Tests in a Volvo car will get under way in the second half of 2011. This technology has the potential for reducing fuel consumption by up to 20 percent. What is more, it gives the driver an extra horsepower boost, giving a four-cylinder engine acceleration like a six-cylinder unit.” The new system, known as Flywheel KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System), is fitted to the rear axle. ... When the car starts moving off again, the flywheel's rotation is transferred to the rear wheels through a specially designed transmission. The combustion engine that drives the front wheels is switched off as soon as the braking begins. The energy in the flywheel can be used to accelerate the vehicle when it is time to move off once again, or to power the vehicle once it reaches cruising speed. "The flywheel's stored energy is sufficient to power the car for short periods. ... “Our calculations indicate that the combustion engine will be able to be turned off about half the time when driving according to the official New European Driving Cycle.”

Suzuki's small family "crossover"

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-05-26T18:21:35+01:00

A year ago I brought you my first impressions of the Suzuki SX4, which is probably best described as small hatchback/SUV/MPV crossover. ... This time I had a chance to try the four-wheel-drive version with the new two-litre DDiS engine. Whatever sector you want to designate it, the Suzuki SX4 is a versatile small hatchback offering good and practical small hatchback accommodation for a family of four. It does add in elements of MPV and SUV, the main one being the four-wheel-drive system on certain models and the resulting ability to undertake some light off-road work. One big practical advantage of the SX4 comes is that it has four passenger doors, where so many others in this class do with two. ...Not only is Volkswagen now a shareholder in Suzuki, but the SX4 was actually designed in partnership with Fiat and is produced – for European markets – in Hungary. ...With the four-wheel-drive version you get three drive modes, selected with a switch on the console – 2WD, Auto and 4WD-Lock. ... The 2WD setting forces the car to stay in front-wheel-drive only for the best fuel consumption, whereas the 4WD-Lock sets the car in four-wheel-drive mode up to 40 mph, when it reverts to auto mode. Performance with the two-litre diesel is quite impressive and I found the SX4 2.0 DDiS to be responsive and willing. ...Other than the engine noise, the SX4 proved to be very much at home on these roads where, despite its tall design, the SX4 not only proved to have sharp and precise handling, but impressive body control. The official combined fuel consumption of the Suzuki SX4 2.0 DDiS SZ5 is 53.3 mpg, but my average over five days of driving on city and country roads ended up just over 40 mpg. ...It is also a quite a fun car to drive, with reasonable performance and good dynamics, spoiled only a little by that rather intrusive engine noise under acceleration. Opting for the bigger two-litre diesel engine and the four-wheel-drive adds quite a bit to the cost.

Audi A1 downsizes the prestige car

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-05-23T15:23:46+01:00

But, it must have been impossible for the product planners at Audi to ignore the gap it left in their range, especially seeing the success that BMW was having with its Mini brand. ...That has certainly been mirrored in my own case where I have gradually downsized over the past decade from the BMW 5 Series Touring I drove in the mid 1990s. ...It does look every bit like a scaled down Audi, with a little bit of added chic – essential if you want to compete with cars like Mini and the Fiat 500. ...Audi has a particular reputation for interior design and the Audi A1 continues that trend with a no-nonsense interior that has a genuine feeling of quality, albeit that some of the plastics are obviously not quite the same standard as more socially-elevated Audis. Following a number of cars where the driver’s legroom was notably limited, it was with relief to find the driving position instantly comfortable. The rear seats are fairly dinky and, with the driver’s seat slid well back, the equivalent rear seat really is only suitable for children, or the most compact and pliable of adults. ...Compact dimensions make the Audi A1 ideal in city traffic and parking, but it is also refined enough to cruise, effortlessly, on the dual-carriageway journeys. Thanks to sharp, positive steering and good body control, I also found the A1 not only at home, but also rewarding to drive on on the country roads that make up my regular route around town. ...Audi have obviously worked hard to get the A1 below the 100 g/km threshold and with an official figure of 99g/km, your annual UK tax disk is free. ...At £14,480 for the Audi A1 1.6 TDI SE, I certainly wouldn’t feel I was paying inordinately for the Audi badge on that imposing front grille. With the A1, Audi set out to take the established reputation for quality, style, comfort and driving enjoyment and squeeze it into a smaller package. Having driven the A1 for five days I reckon they have achieved their goal and produced a car that would be a pleasure to own and drive. Unless you need a car that will accommodate more than two adults plus a large amount of luggage, the Audi A1 makes a convincing case if you want a prestige, environmentally-friendly small car.

Jaguar to build C-X75 hybrid supercar

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-05-08T12:14:35+01:00

Jaguar has confirmed that it will launch the remarkable Jaguar C-X75 concept car as an exclusive hybrid supercar. Powered by electric motors at each axle, the Jaguar C-X75 will become the British marque's most advanced model to date. Despite the electric motive power, Jaguar promise the C-X75 will offer performance on a par with the fastest production cars on the market, while also offering remarkably economical running. Jaguar expects this hybrid supercar to produce less than 99g/km of CO2 while being able to achieve speeds in excess of 200mph. One change from the concept will be that a small capacity conventional internal-combustion engine will be used, rather than the micro gas turbines originally proposed. "People expect Jaguar to be innovators − that is when Jaguar is at its best," said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar Brand Director. "The C-X75 received an incredible reception as a concept car. We've been building on that momentum and there is a clear business case for this exclusive halo model. No other vehicle will better signify Jaguar's renewed confidence and excellence in technological innovation than this." "We were always determined that the Jaguar C-X75 would be as striking on the road as it was in concept form," said Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars. ...The Jaguar C-X75 will be developed in association with Williams F1 who will provide their engineering expertise in areas including aerodynamics, carbon composite manufacture and hybrid technologies. Jaguar say this association will be “at the leading edge of British automotive engineering and innovation”. If this is something you must have, Jaguar are taking expressions of interest via its website www.jaguar.com.

Volvo's concept car is designed to provoke

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-04-27T21:32:07+01:00

For Volvo, now owned by Chinese company Geely, the Shanghai Motor Show is obviously of particular importance and so it was appropriate that they used the event to launch a concept car designed to provoke discussion about the future design direction for the company. The Concept Universe is a large, luxury saloon which has some pretty strong design cues from Volvo’s history. There hints, for example, of the famous Volvo Amazon about its looks. Whichever way you look at it, this is a long way from the boxy Volvo designs of the 1970s and 80s. Volvo’s press release positively gushes. “The Concept Universe has been designed to spark a subconscious desire and a feeling of eternal beauty”. The reality is that it is designed to provoke a reaction and to make a statement about Volvo being bold and looking to invent itself for the future under its new Chinese owners. "Just like fine luxury goods, this design feels handcrafted and durable enough to stand the test of time," says Peter Horbury, Vice President Design at Volvo Car Corporation. "We will compete with the best with our special kind of Scandinavian Design. It is unmatched in performance and technology, but without superficiality or complication."

New, new Volkwagen Beetle unveiled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-04-22T21:15:06+01:00

There were various debates at the time of the Volkswagen Beetle, then Mini, revival about the various merits of the two retro designs. Questions were asked how you could update a model like the Beetle that was just a modern lookalike of a classic car from the past. ...Well, for Mini, the new, new Mini was a subtle update of the new, old Mini. But, with cars like the Countryman, Mini are developing the Mini into a range of cars. For those who questioned how Volkswagen would update the new Beetle, they have their answer. This is the new, new Beetle and – like the Mini – it is a fairly subtle update that keeps the retro looks of the original. Unveiling the new car at the Shanghai Motor Show, Volkswagen was at pains to suggest an evolution in design, saying that the new car “moves away from design of the New Beetle of 1998 and instead draws on cues from the original and Beetle Ragster concept shown in Detroit in 2005”. ...Interestingly, from a marketing point of view Volkswagen seem to be trying to move away from the predominantly female market, saying the new design gives the Beetle “a more masculine and dynamic appearance”. Three trim levels will be available – Beetle, Design and Sport – with their own individual character and features. In the UK,there will be a choice of four engines. Three petrol engines – a 1.2-litre TSI 105 PS, a 1.4-litre TSI 160 PS and a 2.0-litre TSI 200 PS – and one 1.6-litre 105 PS BlueMotion diesel. Thanks to the addition of Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems the Beetle Bluemotion is expected to have a combined fuel consumption of 65.7 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of 112 g/km. The new Beetle will be available to order in the UK in the summer, with first cars arriving in showrooms early in 2012.

Update Jaguar XF and XK for 2012

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-04-21T21:40:25+01:00

Jaguar has unveiled its refreshed XF saloon at the New York Auto Show. ...The front wings and bonnet are changed and the new XF has a larger, more upright grille. The headlights are slimmer and incorporate LED lighting strips that meet the new requirement for daytime running lights. The re-profiled bonnet has a more pronounced ‘power bulge’. The result is a car that is closer to the look of the new Jaguar XJ with a more aggressive appearance. On the flanks the XF now has vents in the front wings. At the rear of there are new LED tail lamps. Inside the changes include a restyled steering wheel, revised switchgear for the ventilation system and a new central colour screen linked to smaller repeater screen with a dial on the dashboard, as in the Jaguar XJ. ...The new model will be offered for the first time with a four-cylinder 2.2-litre common rail diesel engine. This produces 190 PS and 332 lbs ft of torque and is linked to a new eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox. An innovative stop-start system aims to deliver power more effectively and more quickly on restart. With the help of this stop-start technology Jaguar are looking at economy figures of more than 50 mpg and CO2 emissions of 149 g/km. The new XF will go on sale in September with prices starting at £30,950 for the 2.2-litre diesel engine rising to £65,350 for the XFR.

Eyebrow-raising performance on Skoda Fabia VRS

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-04-22T19:43:17+01:00

But, possibly there are a few of you out there who still think that the Czech manufacturer’s products are a bit staid and therefore appeal to, what shall we say, an older clientele? ...Just as the new Skoda Fabia projects more ‘attitude’ in its latest form, with its slightly more quirky looks (people kept commenting that, with its two-tone paintwork, it looked like a Mini), the Fabia vRS delivers real eyebrow-raising performance. ...Yes, the plastics don’t have quite the quality appearance of its close relatives in the Volkswagen range, but the build quality seems good. For practicality it scores well with five doors and good space for a small hatchback, even in the back seats. ...You can drive it as a comfortable and practical hatchback and it will eat up the miles effortlessly, whether you are driving on motorways, city streets or country by-ways. ...But, switch the gearbox to ‘sport’ mode and plant your foot on the accelerator and the Skoda Fabia vRS shows the other side of its character. Experiencing the steady surge of acceleration that pushed them back into their seats, passengers went strangely silent as their eyebrows moved to a higher altitude on their foreheads. ...Over five days of city and country driving – admittedly enjoying the performance to the full and driving much of the time in ‘sport’ – I averaged a still-creditable 29 mpg according to the trip computer. ...I like their ability to change gear, in the blink of an eye, but also how they turn accepted norms on their head. Whereas automatic gearboxes normally take the edge off performance and economy, DSG-equipped cars tend to be marginally faster and more economical than their manual counterparts. ...It’s a long time since I have driven a car where the ‘normal’ and ‘sports’ gearbox settings are so different. In sport, the gearbox becomes downright frenetic, holding onto gears to keep the revs up in the power band – reaching close to 7,000 rpm before up-shifting. ...This performance is combined with a suspension set up up that offers a reasonably compliant ride for transporting more delicate passengers, but enough sporting firmness to provide sporty dynamics.

Honda's hybrid coupe

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-04-12T19:26:09+01:00

Whereas in 2000, only 1% of cars produced less than 130 g/km of carbon dioxide, now almost 40% of cars sold in the UK fit into this bracket. ...Those who read my road test of the Honda Insight will know that I was more than a little disappointed with my first drive in a Honda hybrid car. So, with the Honda CR-Z the marque had the chance to save face and I had the chance to sample the world’s first hybrid sports car. The Honda CR-Z is a sporty 2+2 Coupe, but, under the skin, it shares much of the technology (including the battery pack and electric motor) from the Insight. ...You turn on the ignition with a conventional key on the right of the steering column, but you then have to press the start button with your other hand on to the left. ...But the clutch has a very late uptake and I found myself revving the engine on take-off, not knowing the clutch was still partially disengaged. ...As I said this is a 2+2 and the tiny rear seats are really only feasible for children. ...That just about lets you hold your head high when people start quoting the sprint times to 60 or 62 as though they were much more important than they really are. ...In terms of its green performance, the Honda CR-Z has a combined fuel consumption figure of 56.5 mpg and its CO2 emissions are 117 g/km, putting it in band C for UK car tax. My real-life mileage per gallon, according to the trip computer was just a shade under 40 mpg in a mixture of town and country driving. Prices for the Honda CR-Z V-Tech start at £17,695, with the Sport model costing £18,735 and the GT at £20,820. ...Yet, after driving the Honda CR-Z I still remain to be convinced about hybrids, at least in their current form. I ended this road test having enjoyed my time with the Honda CR-Z, but feeling that it had not delivered anything that could not be delivered by a more conventional with less complex and resource-hungry technology.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta – putting on the style

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-04-01T14:05:07+01:00

One glance and you get the impression that every road behind this car’s wheel will as exciting as driving the famous Amalfi Coast! ...The front of the Giulietta is dominated by the unmistakable Alfa Romeo grille and (for markets that require numberplates) the plate offset to one side. There is also the Alfa styling signature of camouflaging the rear doors (the handles are hidden in the rear quarterlight window) to give the car a more sporting, two-door look. Inside, too, the Giulietta demonstrates a touch of Alfa Romeo style with a body colour strip across the dashboard, although some of the plastics are not as tactile as they might be. ...These days driving positions can be adjusted to a remarkable degree, but I simply could not get comfortable behind this particular wheel. ...While it had been stripped of almost all Alfa distinctiveness – apart from a token Alfa grille shape stuck on the front – this particular car had the Italian driving position par excellence. Our route took us round the north coast of Scotland and I still remember hobbling out at Ullapool with an ankle that was crying “enough”! Despite the pain involved, I loved driving that car because of its eagerness and the delightful Alfa Romeo sound track of a throaty engine and crisp exhaust note. There’s not chance of that on the diesel road test car – the £21,650 Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2.0 JTD Lusso. The sound track on this car is muted, but what you hear under power is a rather tiresome diesel drone. ...The 170bhp output translates into a 0-62mph sprint time of 8.0 seconds and, like most turbo-diesels, its power delivery is even more impressive in the all-important overtaking range. ...What also took the edge off the enjoyment of the by-ways was a rather cumbersome, notchy gearchange on the test car, that sometimes became downright obstructive. If Alfa Romeo had sent a petrol-engined Giulietta – like the acclaimed and cheaper 1.4TB Lusso – I have a strong feeling this test would have ended up much more positive.

Jaguar's XJ purrs into the 21st century

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-26T17:25:11+00:00

I can’t say I am 100% sure yet about the new corporate Jaguar grille and the sweeping rear end of the XJ looks a touch more hatchback than saloon.... although, let me quickly assure you this is a saloon, with a separate boot. ...The one thing that does remain is the preponderance of stitched leather, now complemented by a luxurious roof lining in suede-style material, complete with double glass sunroof, on the test car. ...But, as you may have guessed, they are actually graphics on a display screen in front of the driver. ...With a big, high centre console this does feel like a Jaguar, but a few times during my test, the mirror finish oddments tray, produced dazzling reflections. ...Another party trick is that the driver can have the navigation map on the centre screen, while the passenger can be watching live TV, or a DVD, on the same screen! ...If you are looking at the Jaguar XJ to provide limousine-style comfort all round, then the long-wheelbase version is a relatively affordable £3,000 extra. All this talk of interior comforts and luxuries may lead you to think the Jaguar XJ is all about cosseting driver and passengers, without providing Jaguar standards of performance. ...I used the paddles a couple of times, then I realised that the car actually chooses its gears pretty well and there was little to be gained in choosing the ratios. With a combination of responsive throttle, and well tuned controls, complemented by good body control and nicely balanced handling I found the XJ enjoyable on some of my favourite B roads. It was after one-such run that I noticed the other remarkable attribute of the new Jaguar XJ – at least in this 3.0 diesel form – remarkable economy. ... Even with the gearbox set to ‘sport’ most of the time and making full use of the performance on city and country driving, I was most impressed to return a real-world average, on the trip computer, of 30mpg. The Jaguar XJ’s 3.0 Diesel’s carbon dioxide emissions are 184 g/km, putting it into band I for UK tax – again pretty good for a car of this type. So, while the old Jaguar XJ was a little conservative for my liking, the new XJ is a more attractive, more twenty-first century proposition.

New report demonstrates decade of CO2 emissions progress

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-16T15:11:03+00:00

A new report, published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, shows that emissions of new cars has fallen by 20% since 2000. Whereas in 2000, only 1% of new cars produced less than 130 g/km of CO2, 40% of new cars are now in that low-emission bracket. The SMMT report also records that, in 2010 alone, the CO2 emissions of new cars fell by 3.5%, meaning that the average new car now produced 144.2g/km CO2. The number of vehicles exempt from UK car tax (VED) has increased and now there are nearly 40,000 vehicles in the zero tax bracket because their emissions were under 100g/km. Over the ten-year period the greatest improvement came in the executive and small car segments with emissions falling 28% and 26% respectively. The biggest reductions over the past year came in luxury saloons and MPVs, with emissions down 6% in each sector, compared with 2009 figures. The lowest emitting tax bands have also been the winners in the showrooms. Cars producing 130 g/km or less now represent around 38% of the new car market in the UK, compared to less than 1% in 2000. This represents good progress towards the target where all manufacturers must reach a Europe-wide average of 130 g/km for their vehicles by 2015. • The full SMMT New Car CO2 Report 2011 is free to download from www.smmt.co.uk

Scirocco R adds sporting appeal

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-10T16:23:33+00:00

So, when the performance Scirocco R appeared on my list of cars to road test, I was full of anticipation. ...Fortunately, it is well padded (the roof rail, not my head), so the car was soon forgiven and the lesson in lowering my head was well learned. ...For this test I shall concentrate on the performance aspect of the Scirocco R and leave you to look back at my road test of the Scirocco 2.0 TSI to read more general impressions of the Scirocco. ...I had been a little concerned that, with 265 bhp being delivered through the front wheels, I might find myself fighting torque steer, or feeling that strange vagueness around the straight ahead steering position that used afflict powerful front wheel drive cars. ...It is 100+ miles of heavy trucks, tractors and slow-moving, short-distance traffic mixing it on a single carriageway twisting road, alongside those of us trying to make efficient progress between two of Scotland’s main cities. ...What you do need for the A96, is a car that is comfortable and effortless to drive, so that the long tedious grinds behind other traffic pass more easily – but, one that has the power and performance, to seize the overtaking opportunity when they arise. ...As with the Scirocco 2.0 TSI I drove previously, the Scirocco R seems to revel in sorting out and helping the driver achieve rapid and smooth progress along twisty country roads. ...On the other hand, if you have your granny in the car, you can switch to “comfort” and you really do get a softer, more cosseting ride quality. ...As with the 2.0 TSI, I found it very satisfactory just to leave the system to adjust its own settings automatically for most journeys. Although the capacity is the same at two-litres, the Scirocco R has a power boost of 55PS compared with the Scirocco GT 2.0 TSI. ...You can always tell a well sorted car by the way that the accelerator, clutch, brake, gearbox and steering all seem to work together as a team, letting the driver make smooth, safe and efficient progress. ...My time with the car was dominated by that 200-mile trunk road drive, the trip computer awarded me an overall consumption of 34 mpg. ...The other thing to consider is the mechanically similar Volkswagen Golf R, which costs just £1,600 more for greater practicality and similar (indeed fractionally quicker) performance.

UK heads for ‘Third World’ roads as £3 million a day pothole crisis deepens

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-07T11:19:06+00:00

Drivers could be forking out nearly £3 million every day – or £1 billion a year – to repair cars damaged by Britain’s crumbling roads, according to Potholes.co.uk. ...The road maintenance campaign website, set up by the UK’s leading direct car warranty provider, Warranty Direct, is warning that Britain will have “Third World” roads unless something significant is done. ...Potholes.co.uk analysed 150,000 of Warranty Direct’s policies over a three-year period and found that nearly six percent of vehicles suffer axle or suspension damage linked to potholes or road defects each year. The average cost of repair stood at £312 but individual bills were as high as £4,000. The average for damaged wheels and burst tyres, is £277. I can certainly relate to this as it has cost us £300 to replace otherwise perfectly good tyres that had been damaged beyond repair by pothole impact. I shudder to think what damage has been done to the suspension of our cars over the past few months. All of which makes me think that a big tough ‘Chelsea Tractor’ may be environmentally unfriendly in city centres, but it is becoming the only way to negotiate the appalling road surfaces we now encounter. Our governments – local and national – have a duty to maintain the value of public assets like our roads. But, it seems that the green-fuelled anti-car dogma in government circles has been used as an excuse to shelve road maintenance programmes. If we ignored the need to maintain our homes, the value would soon plummet as the roof fell in. No surprise then that our publicly-owned roads network is now more of a liability than an asset. ...Recently the Auditor General in Scotland did just that, when he issued a hard-hitting warning that there was a £2.25 billion backlog of maintenance North of the Border and warning that we were storing up trouble for the next generation.

Audi A3 concept goes saloon and sporty

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-05T15:05:35+00:00

With a clear eye on the American market (which is not so smitten by hatchbacks as we are in Europe) Audi has taken a new four-door saloon concept, based on the A3, to the Geneva Motor Show. As well as trialling a saloon based on the A3, the concept presents a sharper sporting edge with a 2.5-litre 408PS five-cylinder FSI engine giving the concept a quite startling 0-62mph time of just 4.1 seconds. Fuel economy is said to be 31mpg combined, with emissions of 212g/km CO2. Helping the efficiency is a relatively low 1,540kg kerb weight, thanks to the use of aluminium for some of the body and the use of CFRP. The in-car technology includes the debut of a new generation MMI (multi media interface) which accesses Google services such as maps and also WLAN hotspots.

Virage returns to Aston Martin stable

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-05T15:03:00+00:00

The name Virage is back in the Aston Martin catalogue with the launch of a new Virage at the Geneva Motor Show. ...Aston Martin say they see it “providing customers with a car that remains luxurious and understated but delivers increased performance and crucially performance that is always accessible for effortless driving”. Power comes from Aston Martin’s own 6.0 litre V12 engine, which produces 490 bhp. It is mated to a rear-mounted six-speed Touchtronic II automatic transmission by a carbon fibre prop shaft, giving the Virage what Aston Martin claim is a “perfect 50:50 weight balance”. A newly developed Adaptive Damping System is said to intelligently reads the road to provide the optimum road holding, adapting to different conditions. On the Virage this system selects up to five different stiffness settings within normal mode, and a further five stiffer settings within sport mode. There is also a ‘Sport’ button on the dashboard, which allows the driver to select a sharper throttle response and faster gear changes. ...The Virage sits low and wide asserting the power which lies beneath; single bi-xenon headlamps follow the lines of the car’s flanks to give a more crisp and modern look from the front. A new aluminium metal front grille, inspired by the One-77, features five horizontal vanes which are chamfered creating an aerofoil profile. The new front bumper is pure and relieves the car of any visual complexities, contributing to the overall simplicity of design. The front wings distinguish the Virage from its stable mates housing a new modern interpretation of the Aston Martin iconic side strake housing six LEDs for the side repeater. The doors are descriibed as “swan wing doors” and the Virage coupe comes as either a 2+2 or a 2+0, with the rear seats removed for lightness and replaced with a parcel shelf. Acceleration 0-62 mph takes 4.6 seconds, with the Virage going on to a maximum speed of 186 mph.

Mini concept shrinks back to original size

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-05T15:01:55+00:00

For those who complained that the new Mini was too big compared with the original, Mini have the answer. The Mini Rocketman Concept was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. The Rocketman harks back to the original Alec Issigonis Mini of 1959 in terms of its exterior dimensions being just over three metres long. Mini describe the concept as being a “3+1 seater”. What they mean is that the Rocketman Concept can take three in reasonable comfort and a fourth passenger for shorter journeys. Conventionally, it has three doors when you count the hatchback at the rear. Unconventionally, the Rocketman’s two passenger doors have double-hinge joints and they open with the integrated sills to make it for easy access. Round the back the Rocketman Concept has a drawer in place of a normal hatchback boot – a novel design idea that sounds as though it could be quite a practical solution for a vehicle of this size. The clear roof panel is etched with a Union Jack pattern as a nod to the British heritage of the original Mini. Mini hint that they are looking at power units that would give the Rocketman reasonable performance while returning a fuel consumption of 94 mpg. Let’s hope Mini put the concept into production. But let’s hope they lose the Rocketman name and also the ‘grab-handle’ rear lights.

Lamborghini's new 700hp flagship

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-05T12:11:29+00:00

Lamborghini has continued the tradition of giving its cars the name of a bull. The new Aventador is named after a particularly courageous specimen from the world of the Spanish Corrida. Aventador was the name of a bull that entered into battle in October 1993 at the Saragossa Arena, earning the “Trofeo de la Peña La Madroñera” for its outstanding courage. Unmistakably a Lamborghini, the designers of the Aventador produced what the company calls an “avantgarde work of art, an incredibly dynamic sculpture, from the sharply honed front end through the extremely low roofline to the distinctive rear diffuser”. The entire occupant cell, with tub and roof, is one single carbon-fibre component, meaning it is both incredibly strong, yet light. This ensures extreme rigidity – something which is so important for driving precision. It also offers an extremely high level of passive safety for the driver and passenger. The entire monocoque weighs only 147.5 kilograms. The Aventador LP 700-4 is powered by an extremely powerful and high-revving V12, which produces 700 hp at 8,250 rpm. This kind of extreme power must be delivered reliably to the road and to help ensure this the Aventador has permanent four-wheel drive. The driver can tune the vehicle characteristics (engine, transmission, differential, steering and dynamic control) from three settings – Strada (road), Sport and Corsa (track). The price of the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 in the UK will be £201,900 and the first customers should take delivery in late summer this year.

80 years on, Morgan re-engineers three wheeler

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-05T11:57:16+00:00

For most people three-wheelers conjure up visions of the Reliant Robin and, probably, one in particular – the Trotter’s Independent Trading Reliant Robin van. But, while the three wheelers of the sixties, seventies and eighties were all one front wheel and two at the rear, the famous Morgan three-wheeler of the 1930s offered sports car thrills with two front wheels and one rear. That car still holds the distance speed records for one-litre cars. So, amazingly, Morgan has decided to update the design and start producing three wheelers again. Morgan say the new 3 Wheeler is launched “to bring the fun and passion back to personal transport”. The iconic design of the Morgan Threewheeler has been updated with 21st Century technology. The powertrain is a V-Twin fuel-injected engine mated to a Mazda 5 speed gearbox. Unlike three-wheelers of yesteryear the new three-wheeler does have a reverse gear. (If I remember rightly reverse was usually blanked off, so that the car could be driven on a motorcycle licence.) The price of the new Morgan 3 Wheeler will be £25,000 before tax.

Saab looks boldly to the future

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-03-04T19:38:52+00:00

Saab has signalled its future design direction under its new ownership with the Saab PhoeniX concept car unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. Saab is saying that the concept is built on the basic architecture that will be utilised for their new Saab 9-3. As with so many manufacturers they have invented a word for their new design style it is, wait for it, “aeromotional”. With Saab having a long heritage as a Swedish aircraft manufacturer, the aircraft theme has been quite constant through the years. The Saab people are quite gushing about things like the “dramatic jet canopy-inspired glasshouse” and the “side-mounted ‘winglets”. Butterfly opening doors give easy access to a 2+2 cabin which apparently has the Swedish minimalist, ‘stripped out’ feel and what Saab calls its IQon infotainment and communications system – a technology we can expect to hear more about. “The PhoeniX establishes a new reference point for the future of Saab product design,” says Jason Castriota, Saab Automobile’s Executive Design Director. “It symbolises a renaissance of the innovative spirit and passion that drove Saab to build its first car. “We’re now taking the visual DNA forward with what we call ‘aeromotional’ design, adding emotion, power and fluidity. This design aesthetic will shape and differentiate future models in the Saab portfolio.” Under the skin the Saab PhoeniX deploys an innovative driveline, with an electrically-driven rear axle mated to a 200 hp, 1.6-litre petrol turbo engine driving the front wheels. Saab say this results in an intelligent, hybrid all-wheel-drive capability. Combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions are projected to be 56.5 mpg and 119 g/km.

Nissan 370Z roadster even more a sports car

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-02-23T16:31:28+00:00

The Nissan 370Z I had on test in June last year had shown me that this is a powerful, lively beast. ...To be fair, the electronics did quite a pretty good job of keeping the 370Z roadster on the black stuff... well, in reality, it was now the white stuff. ...Although the actual snow was quite localised and very short lived, there was no chance across my five days with the 370Z Roadster to get the roof down – even if I had been daft enough to do so in January temperatures. ...Well, while they are probably better known for worthy, if not charismatic hatchbacks, Nissan have actually quite a history of sports cars. ...When I fitted myself behind the wheel (I really would have liked between one and two inches more legroom) and powered it up, I had forgotten how responsive this 370Z is. Slot the car into “drive’ and the merest tickle on the throttle results in a scrabble of the wheels as the 370Z takes off. ...So sharp is the steering and the handling that every drive in a Nissan Z car reminds me of the 350Z I had on test a few years ago. ... Every little movement of the steering wheel results in a reaction, which can lead to an overly lively, fishtailing driving style until you get used to it. ...Well it took me a few miles to reacquaint myself with the lightning reactions and to tighten the grip on the steering wheel determined to tame this beast. ...The official combined fuel consumption figure is 25.9 mpg and, on my five days of driving country roads and city streets I averaged just over 20 mpg. ...So if practicality and effortless driving are your goal then you should look at the other cars in your local Nissan showroom. But, if you crave a more exhilarating experience, the 370Z Roadster could be for you, if you promise to treat this car with respect. ...But, then, I knew I could jump back into my own car, for a more effortless, less frenetic drive, after I had my adrenaline fix.

Toyota's other hybrid model, the Auris

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-02-19T10:58:18+00:00

Since then hybrids have become more common extending into Toyota’s prestige Lexus range and now with other manufacturers, notably Honda with its Insight and most recently the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne. ...It is very much like an everyday Toyota Auris, but there are changes to the controls and instruments to cater for the hybrid power units. ... Toyota obviously feel that this will be noticeable, so much so that they have added a discreet notice that explains the battery pack is below the boot floor. ...Not a problem for most drivers, the only ones who are likely to miss this are enthusiastic drivers who would like the option to drop down a gear to stabilise the car going into corners. But, despite the inability to drop a gear on corners and despite the added weight of the battery pack and electric motor, I found the Auris handles well. ...As with the Prius, I find it quite fascinating the way that the Auris Hybrid does such complex magic all the time, but never lets you know what it is doing – unless you switch on the display that shows you where the power is coming from and going to. ...If you switch on the power display, you can see that seamlessly the Auris Hybrid will juggle between the electric motor and its 1798cc petrol motor and from power to recharge without you being aware of all this magic. ...Providing your speed is slow enough and there is enough juice in the battery pack, this will force the Auris Hybrid to run on electric power only. ...Throwing care and economy driving to the wind, the Toyota Auris Hybrid will muster all its 98 bhp and accelerate to 62 mph in 11.4 seconds. ...The Auris Hybrid, for example, has a combined fuel consumption figure of 70.6 or 74.3 mpg depending on which model you choose. ...But, in everyday use, on a mixture of B-roads, dual-carriageways and city streets, the trip computer gave me an overall average of 44 mpg for my five days. Now, if you care to take a look at, say the Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion, you will see that it achieved an overall consumption over five days of B-roads, dual carriageways and city streets of... wait for it... 44 mpg! ...If you decide to choose the Auris Hybrid, you will be choosing an eminently practical, comfortable family hatchback that just happens to sip fuel and produce emissions of 89 or 93 g/km – so low that the Chancellor of the Exchequer will hand you your tax disk for nothing in the UK.

£2.25 billion road maintenance backlog in Scotland

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-02-17T12:10:36+00:00

The shocking state of the roads in UK was thrown into sharp relief by a report released yesterday by Audit Scotland that stated that less than two-thirds of Scotland’s roads were in an acceptable condition and that the backlog of maintenance had now reached £2.25 billion. The report went on to state that the maintenance backlog had almost doubled from £1.25 billion to the current £2.25 billion since 2004. Scotland’s Auditor General, Robert Black was quite outspoken in the report. “The pattern of spending and the scale of the backlog means that the value of these public assets is not being sustained,” he states in the report. “But, by deferring essential expenditure on infrastructure, public bodies are storing up problems for the future and passing a greater burden onto generations to come.” • The press release from Audit Scotland can be seen on the Audit Scotland website.

BMW Vision concept showcases technology

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-02-16T19:55:12+00:00

BMW will be giving its Vision ConnectedDrive concept car at the Geneva Motor Show. A two-seat roadster the concept is aimed at showing the potential of current and future in-car technology and how it could aid comfort, safety and ‘infotainment’. The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive showcases the current and future capabilities of BMW’s ConnectedDrive technologies. Advanced Head-Up Display takes the technology currently available in production BMWs even further, placing a three-dimensional display of key information in the direct sight line of the driver, eliminating the need for the driver’s eyes to refocus. The three-dimensional display allows the real view to be overlaid with virtual information, highlighting hazards and allowing the driver to take in all of the information quickly and take the right action. In addition to Advanced Head-Up Display the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive is equipped with a programmable instrument cluster that gives the driver additional information. Passengers get their own information display, out of the driver’s field of vision, including information, music or navigation details that they can pass onto the driver with a simple touch of a finger. The concept may also signal the direction that BMW design will take, while also presenting the essential elements of BMW’s current design language. BMW say these include its long wheelbase, set back seating position and long bonnet “with taut surfaces and distinctive flowing lines”. BMW say: “This results in an interesting play of light and shadow making the car appear as if it is accelerating even at a standstill.” An interesting feature is the sliding doors, which are inspired by those I remember on the BMW Z1. The doors disappear into the body of the car, dropping down behind the lower body panel. Like the Z1, this allows the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive to be driven with the doors open, emphasising the link between the vehicle and its environment.

WRC takes a backward step on UK TV

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-02-15T18:51:15+00:00

The DriveBlog household had become avid viewers of the WRC coverage on Dave, the TV channel. Now, as we start what could be one of the most interesting World Rally Championships for years, where do we turn? A search of the WRC website tells us that ESPN will be giving us more than four hours of coverage for each round. But, there is no way I can justify paying £144 across the year just to watch 13 events. Further searchings uncovered that Motors TV are doing coverage in the UK. We probably won’t have much chance to appreciate the battle between the new Citroen DS3 (above) and the Ford Fiesta RS. But, having watched the first one, I cannot see it being compulsive viewing, in the way Dave’s WRC coverage was. It appears to have been put together by a rather lazy editor, whose idea of good rally coverage is to stick together long, tedious shots of the driver, or a narrow, letterbox glimpse bonnet and a little bit of road, under the sun strip on the windscreen. There are occasional more interesting cut-aways of the cars negotiating the stages and the occasional interview. But, it ends up being a frustrating hour of TV zooming through the boring stuff in search of something worth watching. ...Sadly I think we shall not be watching this year’s championship. ...Hope you come back on a TV channel I can watch, with a team that can produce an interesting and balanced programme. Until then, I – and I suspect many others – will not be among those dazzled by the performance of the Ford, Citroen, Skoda or Mini teams, or impressed by the glamour of the sponsors.

Ford C-Max

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-02-03T15:00:00+00:00

Others want the ability to pack extra members of the extended family and are looking for a family MPV that can accommodate seven. ...The car that arrived for appraisal was the five-seater – the Ford C-Max 1.6TDCi (115PS) Titanium to be precise. There is particular interest in the C-Max because it is the first car to use the platform that is also used in the new Ford Focus. Although it will surely become as common as sight on our roads as the current Focus, the ink is still wet on the early reviews of Ford’s new global family car. ...But, more than looks, MPVs are all about space and the C-Max – although presumably not as capacious as the new C-Max Grand – does not disappoint. Comfortably spacious for driver and passenger, there is also good space in the rear, where the seats are adjustable in true MPV style. ...Unable to find any figures for boot space in this new model, I cannot say how many litres of load space there are with the seats up or down. ...It also has excellent body control, meaning that the C-Max is as at home on the side roads as it is on the dual carriageways. ...You need to get into the habit of giving the accelerator a purposeful prod to get the turbocharger spinning as you take off from a standing start. ...I have come across similar initial hesitancy on a number of test cars recently, which leaves me wondering if it has something to do with manufacturers trying to wring the best economy and lowest emissions figures from their cars? ...The combined fuel consumption figure is 61.4 mpg and, even driving fairly hard, I managed 35 mpg across five days of driving on a mixture of city and country roads. ...In addition to the Titanium goodies (that include the wonderful electrically-heated windscreen, so welcome on frosty mornings), the test car was fitted with the £525 Family Pack which gives you a power tailgate (very handy on mucky winter roads), rear sun blinds and a 230-volt power converter so you can use household electrical equipment in the car. If you are looking for a family MPV the C-Max is now an even stronger contender to go on your shopping list and, reports suggest that seven-seater is equally desirable, if your tribe is larger.

Audi press on with quattro for A1

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-01-14T17:24:00+00:00

Speaking with a motortrade insider about the benefits of four-wheel-drive in winter weather, like we have experienced in this country with a vengeance over the last couple of months. While Audi has underlined its commitment to four-wheel-drive with the development of the Audi A1 quattro, he, and I, were puzzled that BMW were still shunning four-wheel-drive for their saloons and hatchbacks in the UK. A prototype of the forthcoming Audi A1 quattro undergoes snowy trials One Audi dealership in Scotland reports that quattro models now represent more than half of its total new car sales. Yet, BMW still do not import xDrive saloons or Tourings into the UK. If you want a four-wheel-drive BMW here, you will have to look at their X3, X5 and the forthcoming X1. I have long been a fan of four-wheel-drive saloons and hatchbacks. In the past seven years I have had a saloon, cabriolet and now a hatchback with all-wheel-drive. I like the handling during the summer, when a well sorted four-wheel-drive car exhibits the same sort of handling balance as a rear-wheel-drive car, but with even greater security. Come the winter, four-wheel-drive has obvious advantages. Apart from when the snow is simply too deep to negotiate, I have only ever become stuck once with my four-wheel-drive cars. Ironically that was after the thaw had set in and deep slush brought the car to a halt. After the severest weather in the UK for more than 100 years, expect even more people to be seeking out four-wheel-drive for their next family car.

Ferrari FF first pictures

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-01-21T17:06:18+00:00

The official Prancing Horse web site, Ferrari.com, has revealed the first photographs of the new FF, the company’s most powerful four-seater ever, and its first ever four-wheel drive car. The FF – an acronym for Ferrari Four (four seats and four-wheel drive) – is described as a “decisive break with the past.. the new car represents not so much an evolution as a true revolution”. The V12-powered FF aims to combine the expected sporty, high-performance character with versatility, comfort and elegance. Designed by Pininfarina, Ferrari say “the shape and proportions perfectly interpret the FF’s harmonious blend of sporting DNA and extraordinary usability”. The FF features the company’s first ever four-wheel drive system. Ferrari has patented what it calls 4RM (four-wheel drive). It weighs 50% less than a conventional four-wheel drive system, helping to maintain ideal weight distribution (53 per cent over the rear axle). Integrated with the car’s electronic dynamic control systems, the four-wheel drive technology features continuous and “intelligent predictive” torque distribution to all four wheels.

A Ford Focus, but not as we know it

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-01-13T15:05:15+00:00

When we headed out to the parking garage at the airport in Florida, we thought we knew what we were getting as our hire car. It was, after all, a Ford Focus – one of the most common cars on European roads. But, the surprise was that this Ford Focus was substantially different to the Ford Focus as we know it. Following on from the Mondeo ‘world car’, the Ford Focus was supposedly going to be another car to be sold in the same form in international markets. But, as with the Ford Escort before it, the American Ford Focus became substantially different. So different, in fact, that the current model in the USA is based on the previous model in Europe. There’s an all-new Focus unveiled that will be coming to a showroom near you shortly and, once again, we hear that this new Focus will indeed be a ‘world car’. The only substantial difference, apparently, will be that the American Focus will be available as a saloon (sedan), because hatchbacks are not that popular in the USA. Conversely, the saloon is not expected to be available at all in the UK. ...In place of the welcoming interior we expect in Europe, the American Focus had nasty and, frankly, cheap-looking hard brown and beige plastic. ...This was a hire car – so it is difficult to know how hard a life our Focus had had, but refinement was definitely lacking compared with what we expected. Noise levels in the cabin were high and there was a looseness and vagueness about the dynamics that is definitely not what we expect from the well-sorted Focuses on our roads. If the USA really does get the same, with the new model, as we get in Europe, American Ford buyers are surely going to be pleased!

New Touareg impresses at a price

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-01-21T15:02:23+00:00

Ever since Volkswagen came, a little late, to the SUV market with the Touareg, I have had a soft spot for their big off-roader. ...It might still be a big off-roader, with good ability to yomp over the rough stuff, but the new model lost weight and gained greater efficiency. ...It may look a little more compact, but the truth is that the length of the new Touareg is up by 41mm and the width has grown by 12mm. ...A Volkswagen doesn’t shout about style or opulence, it just exudes a slightly up-market air – not enough to take it into competition with Volkswagen’s premium Audi brand, but enough to set it apart from the mainstream. ...Some may give it a black mark for not being a seven-seater, like the Land Rover Discovery, but the Touareg is very comfortable for five. ...Where the hybrid model incorporates an electric motor into the drivetrain, in a similar way to the Lexus RX400h, the Bluemotion relies on diesel efficiency alone to reduce consumption and emissions. ...That may not sound particularly outstanding, until you stop to recognise that this is a big, four-wheel-drive vehicle with a three-litre V6 engine. ...Coincidentally, that is exactly the same average as I achieved in the Lexus RX400h hybrid, re-affirming my belief that a well set-up conventional engined car can often match, or beat, the wizardry of a hybrid. ...Like the impressive Golf Bluemotion, the Touareg proved to be an enjoyable and responsive car to drive in a range of conditions, be it dual-carriageway cruising or the more give-and-take country roads. My test car had the Tiptronic eight-speed automatic gearbox, which seemed very well suited to the big turbodiesel V6. ...On twisty roads the Touareg feels very well planted on the tarmac, with no trace of the unsettling wobble or lean angles that some off-roaders exhibit. The steering of an off-roader is never going to fit the description “sharp”, but I never felt I needed to know much more about how the rubber was clinging to the road surface and the Touareg simply went exactly where I pointed it. ...Accordingly you can choose to have a Touareg with 4MOTION or 4XMOTION (with the option of an ‘Escape’ design which has less front and rear overhang).

Glasgow start for Historic Monte-Carlo

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2011-01-01T19:20:25+00:00

The Monte Carlo Rally Historique will celebrate the centenary of the famous rally when it returns to one of the traditional start points – Glasgow’s Blythswood Square on Thursday, January 27. Stuart Turner (left) and Erik Carlsson with a Saab 96 Blythswood Square was the home of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, now the Blythswood Square five-star hotel. More than 50 period cars will leave from the square to travel over 2,000 km to Monte Carlo. The previous day, on Wednesday 26 January, a Grand Gala Dinner will be addressed by Stuart Turner, who was competition manager at BMC when Minis were regularly winning the Monte Carlo Rally. • Ticket enquiries can be made to alison@rsacmotorsport.co.uk or by calling 01576 202953.

Vauxhall downsizes engine in hunt for economy

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-12-27T15:45:00+00:00

As Vauxhall and Opel ride the turbulence following the US bankruptcy of parent company General Motors, the latest Vauxhall Astra will be crucial to how the company fares in coming years. This is the car that will have to face up to big competitors like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. ...Inside, it exudes an up-market aura and appeal that ensures it stands comparison with the cabin of the Focus and even the Golf. ...The new Astra is longer than most vehicles in this class and the long wheelbase has been a benefit for the packaging, allowing the designers to squeeze in legroom and luggage space. ...This is all part of the race to achieve the best-possible fuel economy and low carbon dioxide emissions. ...This version puts out 140PS at a remarkably low 4,900 rpm – a power peak that equates more to diesel engines. But, being a petrol unit, there are plenty more revs in reserve, although there is little point in taking the engine up closer to the red line. ...It is pretty responsive at all but the lowest revs and power delivery is progressive enough that you have no sensation of power surges from the turbocharger. ...The combined fuel consumption is 47.9 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions are 138 g/km, putting the Astra Turbo into band E for UK car tax. I did feel that these headline figures may have been helped by slightly over-the-top gearing (something that is increasingly evident in the current chase for ever-more-impressive fuel economy and lower emissions). ...In a car where the steering, clutch, brake and accelerator all feel particularly smooth and progressive, the gearchange feels rather mechanical and notchy. ...But, with the progressive controls complemented by precise steering and good body control, the Astra Turbo is a pleasant companion when the roads become narrower and twistier. ...The final clincher for some drivers will be Vauxhall’s new lifetime warranty, which will cover the first owner of the vehicle for problems with the powertrain, steering system, brake system and electrical equipment up to 100,000 miles.

Suzuki Swift surprises

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-12-17T17:08:55+00:00

There is no hiding the fact that the trim materials have been chosen to fit the budget, but – with its muted black with silver highlights – I even found myself comparing it favourably to the products of the Volkswagen group. ...The bigger external dimensions and 50 mm increase in wheelbase translates into a car that feels quite spacious inside for a small supermini. ...Try to pack a reasonable-sized box in there and you will have to fold down at least one section of the rear seat. ...Finally, before turning to the driving, I wish to award a gold star to Suzuki for not having caught the Japanese disease of pointless beeps and bongs that assail the eardrums and cry ‘wolf’ every time you so much as open a door, or switch off the engine. So, I was already impressed before I set off for my first drive in the five-door Suzuki Swift 1.2 SZ4. ...But the more I drove, the more I realised the effort that has gone into the fine tuning of the steering, gearchange, clutch, brake and throttle to ensure that they are all easy to use, but also precise and progressive. I remember Sir Jackie Stewart talking about his role with Ford in being so pernickety about how everything had to be smooth and progressive, just like his driving crusade. ...So, combined with a remarkably good ride on all but the worst of our rapidly deteriorating roads and a relatively low level of cabin noise, the Suzuki Swift scores well on refinement. ...I had spotted the 0-62 mph time of 12.3 seconds and was fearing that the Swift might feel horribly underpowered, like the Chevrolet Spark that came weeks before. ...Although this is obviously no sports hatch, it really does feel a good deal livelier than the engine size or that the 0-62 time might suggest. ...The improvements here may well be because of Suzuki’s efforts to stiffen the bodyshell, combined with the increased track and larger wheels with low-profile tyres. ...While I easily managed figures in the mid 40s on more restrained trips, I have to admit my overall figure dropped to around 40 mpg because I was driving this little engine quite hard. But, the fact that I felt confident to squeeze the performance out of the Swift is a compliment about how well it drives.

BMW 5 Series Touring test trunkated by snow

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-12-16T16:52:11+00:00

So when a BMW 530d SE Touring turned up on the list of cars heading for my appraisal, I was more than a little enthused about finding how one of my favourite cars had matured over recent years. ...It did and the Porsche simply tantalised me for ten days looking like an ice sculpture of a Porsche, until it was time to hand it over, virtually un-driven. ...Conditioned by the experience of a BMW 3 series, a couple of winters ago, that simply sat and span its wheels at the merest glimpse of the white stuff, I was surprised at the better experience in the 5 Series Touring. ...What I could tell from sitting in the Touring marooned in the snowfields and on the subsequent short drive, is that it is as comfortable as I remember the previous model. ...This is unmistakably a luxury vehicle as, indeed, it should be with a starting price for the 530d SE Touring of £39,400 – and that’s before you are tempted by some of the wonderful toys in the BMW brochure. ...Among the noteworthy extras were the “comfort seats” (and they were), the dynamic package, the ‘head-up’ display that projects the speed and key warnings onto the windscreen, sports automatic transmission and the reversing camera set up. This gives you a view rather reminiscent of the Land Rover Discovery, with the expected rear-facing camera augmented by cameras under the door mirrors that let you see if there are any unseen obstructions about to damage the car’s flanks. ...But I did have a chance to appreciate the refinement of the three-litre diesel engine, It delivers 245 bhp and the usual bags of diesel torque at 540Nm – good for the low-rev, high-gear driving needed in snow. Acceleration of this three-litre diesel, at 6.4 seconds 0-62 mph, is actually 0.3 seconds quicker than my old 528i petrol-powered Touring – which says something about how diesel engines have been developed to deliver good performance in recent years. The combined fuel consumption figure is 44 mpg with carbon dioxide emissions of 169 g/km, putting the BMW 530d SE Touring into band G for UK vehicle tax. Where the BMW 5 Series Touring appeals of course is in its combination of executive comfort for passengers and its practical load carrying ability. I remember how my Touring happily swallowed everything from Ikea furniture, to antiques and even a couple of sizeable silver birches, in its time. ...The luggage capacity is increased by 60 litres to 560 litres, with an optional ‘Extended Storage’ package lets you reduce the angle of the rear seats by 11 degrees, to give 30 litres more load space.

Audi launches its smallest performance RS

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-11-23T17:51:54+00:00

Audi has turned up the heat for its A3 range with the launch of a new high performance Audi RS3 Sportback – the smallest Audi RS model ever. Powered by a turbocharged five-cylinder engine, the Audi RS3 accelerates from 0-62 mph in just 4.5 seconds. Power output is 340PS and it is transmitted through a seven-speed S-tronic twin-clutch transmission and quattro four-wheel-drive. The Audi RS3 is marked out from its humbler siblings by 19-inch alloy wheels, flared lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic wings covering wider set wheels. ...Alongside its headline performance figures, with a governed top speed of 155 mph, Audi quote a combined fuel consumption figure of 31 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of 212 g/km. ...The turbocharging technology has been designed to allow maximum torque of 405Nm to be available from around 1,600 rpm right through to 5,300 rpm. The large turbocharger generates up to 1.2 bar of boost pressure, and downstream of it is an intercooler which, Audi says, achieves an efficiency rate of more than 80%. ...Adding to the efficiency are the various weight-saving measures that include strong but light vermicular graphite for the engine block and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the front wings. Together these help to keep the kerb weight of the new RS 3 down to 1,575 kg, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 216PS per tonne. ...The standard wheel finish is a machine-polished titanium look, but for those who want to stand out even more, a black finish with red rim inserts is also available as an option. The quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system has the electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, mounted at the end of the propeller shaft to achieve a favourable axle load distribution. ...Inside, sports seats are upholstered in Nappa leather with silver contrasting stitching, and inlays are finished in Piano black or the new ‘Aluminium Race’ look. A flat-bottomed RS steering wheel and special design for the instruments and S-tronic selector lever distinguish the interior of the RS.

Honda CRV diesel - a pair of sensible shoes

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-11-22T15:39:06+00:00

So, being late-comers to the diesel party, it’s perhaps it is not surprising that the Honda C-RV 2.2i DTEC EX is the first diesel Honda that I have ever driven. ...The engine is so subdued and refined that, unless you are standing beside it at tickover, you soon forget it is a compression-ignition engine. ...Like most Hondas it also feels pretty bullet-proof in build quality, you get the impression it will go on for ever. ...Like most 4x4s, it will keep you going when other cars are grinding to a halt in a flurry of snow and spinning wheels. ...It has no low-ratio gearboxes, diff-locks or hill-descent controls, so something like the Land Rover Freelander could probably drive circles round it off-road, perhaps even quite literally. ...If this road test stopped there, many of the CR-V’s potential buyers would already be convinced enough to make a bee-line to their Honda dealership. Put it this way, the Honda CR-V is like a pair of sensible walking shoes. ... You can just sit behind the wheel as the CR-V eats up the miles with ease and reasonable refinement, apart from slightly intrusive road noise at motorway speeds. But, like a pair of sensible shoes, while many will rate them as ideal, a few will wish for something that has more presence and offers the driver a bit more excitement. I’m not smitten with the CR-V’s rather self-conscious front-end styling and some potential buyers will be put off by its lack of sporty dynamics. ...The combined consumption figure is 43.5 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions are 171 g/km, putting this CR-V in band H for UK road tax. ...If you want a good, practical 4x4 that is comfortable, refined and capable – if possibly a little bit unexciting – then the CR-V may well suit you. If you want something more stylish, or with a more macho off-road image, you will probably go elsewhere.

Saab 9-5 pitches for executive market

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-11-13T19:58:06+00:00

And judging by the response to Saab’s potential demise, there are a whole lot of Saab enthusiasts out there ready to reach for their chequebooks. ...So, the all-new 9-5 was going to be critical to Saab, under GM ownership. ...The new Saab 9-5 is based on the stretched underpinnings of the Vauxhall Insignia, but the designers have made a good job of giving it a distinctive appearance and enough Saab design features to keep the Saab faithful happy. ...What is notable, too, is how the designers having managed to give the 9-5 the impression of the Saab signature wrap-around windscreen, even though the curvature is not that pronounced. ...There’s also the traditional Saab sliding-layer air vents and that essential bit of Saab kit (which I have never fully understood) the “night panel” button. One thing that Saab traditionalists will not be familiar with – at least not in Saab cars rather than aircraft – is the HUD, the head-up display. ... Certainly, you will have little excuse for breaking speed limits when it is so easy to know how fast you are going! ...Well, it’s actually quite spacious, at least in terms of legroom and knee space, even with the front seat set well back. ... That sweeping roofline does mean that the rear window header rail is quite low, so watch your head as you get out. ...But, it loads a little more weight into the system as you get more speed and I found it quite precise and with reasonable feedback. ...While the early Saab turbos suddenly took off – when the turbocharger spun up to speed (like someone had shoved you in the back) – the new 9-5 like the best modern-day turbos are so progressive in their power delivery. ...The combined fuel consumption is quoted at 33.6 mpg, but my average was nearer 20 mpg on a mixture of town and country driving. ...It grieves me to say that and I really hope Spyker people can build in more desirability and dynamic ability in the coming months.

Baby Chevrolet lacks spark

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-11-06T18:35:22+00:00

If you do, you are behind the times and this particular Chevrolet is one of the smallest – it’s the Chevrolet Spark and it is powered by a tiny one-litre engine! ...The reason you may be confused is that GM purchased the former Daewoo Korean car manufacturer and promptly decided to designate Chevrolet as their worldwide brand for keenly-priced automobiles. ...You look at it and start to wonder how they managed to design five doors into its ultra-compact dimensions. To help package as much as possible into the compact size, the Spark is a very upright design – you sit tall, rather than low. ...That means you have to physically hold yourself on the seats if you get ever so slightly enthusiastic about taking a bend or a roundabout. ...For such a small car they are remarkably reasonable for adults, although it did take an effort to tuck my knees behind the driver’s seat – I am sure he, or she, would feel my knees pushing into the seat back. ...The Spark range actually starts at £6,945, which is £1,050 cheaper than the cheapest Ford you can buy – the Ford Ka. ...The Ka comes with a 1.2-litre engine, whereas the Chevrolet Spark comes with a one litre (995cc to be precise) engine. (You can get a 1.2 litre engine in the Spark, but it will cost you £9095 for the 1.2LS) ...The one-litre engine under the Spark’s bonnet does, unfortunately, lend itself to comments about ‘spark’ in its meaning of ‘liveliness’ or ‘responsiveness’. ...That said, once you get the momentum going, the Spark will bowl along quite happily on the dual carriageway at 60 or 70 mph. ...With no trip computer, can’t give any real-life mpg figures based on my driving time with it. ...Chevrolet have produced what they call the Chevrolet Spark Woody, with fake wooden bodywork, to try to liven up interest in their new baby.

New car pricing site for UK

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-11-06T15:01:20+00:00

A new UK car price guide website – priceanycar.com – has recently been launched. Developed by a group of friends, the site owners say the big benefit is that the prices are based on “real cars for sale”. “We are looking for sites to help us grow and to ultimately help UK car buyers navigate the process with less stress and less expense,” says Ian Sydney, one o the group who set up the site. “We want to help you price your car, or a car you are looking to buy, based on real cars for sale in the market at the moment.”

All-new Sharan unveiled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-10-20T19:52:37+01:00

Volkswagen has opened the order book for its all-new Sharan with prices starting from £22,980 (RRP OTR) for the entry-level S 1.4-litre TSI model. Volkswagen’s new MPV will come with a range of TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines, the majority of which are designated BlueMotion. The latter will have the stop-start system and also be equipped with battery regeneration systems to enhance economy and lower emissions. In the MPV market the flexibility of the seating system is particularly important and Volkswagen have a new system which they have dubbed EasyFold. Individual seats in the second and third rows can be stowed in the vehicle floor, rather than having to be removed from the vehicle when not needed. The aim is to make it even easier to switch the Sharan from people-carrying to load-carrying duties. Like the front seats, the second row rear seats also adjust longitudinally and can be reclined up to 20 degrees. To get to the rearmost seats, Volkswagen say the middle row of seats can be folded forwards with one hand to allow access. When in five-seat configuration the load space measures 1,339 litres, rising to 2,430 litres with seats folded. ...Volkswagen say the focus on practicality hasn’t come at the expense of dynamic ability. The new Sharan can be specified with Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) for the first time, allowing the driver to select from three damper settings – Comfort, Normal and Sport. Additional convenience highlights include the optional second generation Park Assist system that allows the new Sharan to self-park in end-on as well as parallel spaces. They system takes over the steering inputs meaning all the driver has to do is operate the throttle and the brakes.

Saab's new 4x4 crossover

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-10-20T19:27:57+01:00

Just months after its takeover by Spyker, Saab is about to launch a new model at next month’s Los Angeles Auto Show. The new Saab 9-4X is clearly aimed at the growing market for 4x4 crossovers particularly in the USA. The North American targeting of the new model is revealed by plans for it to be manufactured, not in Saab’s native Sweden, but at a factory owned by former owners General Motors, in Mexico. There are also no diesel versions in the launch line-up – something that will not be missed in America, but will be in Europe. Although it will be built on the opposite side of the Atlantic, the Saab 9-4X is designed to look distinctly Saab with the signature wrap-around windscreen, cockpit style interior and Saab grille. In terms of overall appearance, Saab say they have striven to make it look between the 9-3X and new 9-5 saloon in size. The 9-4X uses Saab’s all-wheel-drive system, XWD, and ‘DriveSense’ adaptive chassis control. Power comes from a 2.8-litre V6 turbocharged engine, mated to six-speed automatic transmission. “The 9-4X significantly broadens the appeal of the Saab brand,” says Saab Automobile CEO Jan Åke Jonsson. “It gives us entry to the fast-growing crossover segment with a vehicle that reflects our brand values in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design and sporty, responsible driving performance. The 9-4X is an exciting package and we’re confident it will appeal to many existing Saab owners, as well as win new customers for the brand.” The new Saab 9-4X goes on sale in North America in May next year, with sales in Europe and other global markets due to begin from August. UK sales will start late in 2011.

Functional Shogun falls short

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-10-20T17:43:49+01:00

A few years ago I was invited to the launch of the then new Mitsubishi Shogun in Yorkshire. The proud company executives introduced the latest model with a flourish, stating that this was the first time we would have seen it. ...A couple of months earlier I had watched the Mitsubishi engineers give the new model a hot-weather shakedown in Death Valley and, as it was parked in our hotel, I had a good chance to have a sneak preview. Several years on, it has to be said that my road test Mitsubishi Shogun LWB Elegance is looking a little dated. ...I have said it before and I will say it again, I do not understand the purpose of assaulting the eardrums with pointless beeps. ... Give me a car that gives me a simple ‘bong’ after I have settled in, should I forget seat belt, handbrake or something else important. Already disappointed by the rather dated design and cacophony of beeps , I turned the starter and my heart sank at the clatter of the diesel engine under the bonnet. ... In an era of diesel engines that are so quiet as to be indistinguishable from petrol power units, this was a massive disappointment. ...I remember giving a Mitsubishi sales executive a lift in the back of a road test series one Discovery a good few years ago. ... At that time the Discovery could make passengers quite queasy the way it lurched from leaning one way to leaning the other. ...With 275 lb/ft torque, the choice of low-ratio automatic gearbox (automatic is standard on the Elegance and Diamond models) and differential locks, this Shogun is a genuine off-roader. ...I have to be honest and say I was not unhappy to pass on the keys for Shogun. ... But, at £34,999 for this Shogun LWB Elegance, it falls short of the refinement and dynamic ability I would expect in that price range.

Manufacturers make leap in drive for economy

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-10-15T18:14:09+01:00

The average fuel economy of new cars in the UK has improved by 7.64 per cent in the past year, according to a study by DrivenData. The median combined mpg, based on claimed figures by manufacturers, now stands at 45.1 – up from 41.9mpg in October 2009. DrivenData compiled the statistics using its new car database, which provides comprehensive and accurate data specifications for every current model on sale in the UK. ...On this website we constantly report how combined fuel consumption figures are difficult to achieve in the real world. But they certainly should be a valid measure of how economy is improving. There also can be no doubt that car manufacturers have made huge strides over the past five years as they bid to make cars greener. ...Between 2006 and 2009, combined mpg consistently improved every year by around 3.5 per cent. In October 2006, the average car’s fuel economy stood at 37.9mpg. A year later, it rose by 3.43 per cent to 39.2mpg, and it improved by a further 3.32 per cent to 40.5mpg in 2008. Over the next 12 months, progress continued at a similar pace, with combined mpg edging up by another 3.46 per cent to 41.9mpg in October 2009. But car makers stepped things up and eclipsed that with this year’s improvement of 7.64 per cent, to 45.1mpg. Based on manufacturers’ official figures, Smart can lay claim to the UK’s two most frugal cars, with the ForTwo and ForTwo Cabrio both squeezing 85.6 miles out of every gallon on the combined cycle. The car to avoid if you put prudence before pleasure is the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti – which returns the lowest fuel economy of just 13.8mpg.

New Scottish motoring website

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-10-15T12:21:57+01:00

Two established Scottish motoring journalists, Jim McGill and Alan Douglas, have joined forces to create the first motoring and motorsport website for Scotland, Scotcars.co.uk. The new website has the backing of the Scottish Motor Trade Association and has also forged a partnership with S1cars. Scotcars will carry road tests, automotive news and will also tackle major transport issues affecting Scotland. In addition it will cover all the major motorsport events — from Formula One to Scottish Formula Ford, and World Rally Championship to Scottish Rally Championship — involving Scottish drivers. The launch coincides with the second running of RallyScotland, the penultimate round of the International Rally Championship which gets underway at Scone Palace on Friday, October 15. "RallyScotland is the perfect platform to allow us to show our depth of live coverage of major events," says managing editor Jim McGill. "We'll be onsite at every stage. Not only will we be carry reports on the website, but we'll be firing out stage times and positions through our Twitter feed.”

Good looks focus attention on Peugeot RCZ

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-10-15T13:18:43+01:00

So, when the new Peugeot RCZ coupé turned up in my driveway, I was more than a little interested. ...Possibly its full-frontal view is the weakest, thanks to the Peugeot ‘big maw’ corporate look – a style that I have never been too fond of. On the test car the contrasting silver around the roof line gives the RCZ a particularly attractive profile and, of course, the twin bubble roof and rear window is a flourish of pure style. Like the Audi TT, there is a pop-up rear spoiler that appears at higher speeds to keep the rear wheels pressed onto the tarmac (there is also a switch to raise it manually). ...It’s almost as though Peugeot has taken over from the Italians with their erstwhile predilection for a long-arm, short-leg driving position. Anyway, I did get quite comfortable, but it rendered the RZC a 2+1, rather than a 2+2 coupé. ...The only downside – in common with most coupés is the need to lift any luggage up and over, taking care not to scratch the bodywork. So, duly installed and feeling quite at home, I headed out on the open road for the first of several drives. ...Whereas I would relish the opportunity to drive my beloved Peugeot 205 GTIs at the slightest excuse and would always return with a grin as wide as the Cheshire cat, the Peugeot RCZ fell a tad short of the expectations built up by those stylish design cues. It feels good and secure on twisty roads, but I would like a little more involvement and feedback for the driver. ...But, those craving more power and rapid performance will need to save up an extra £2,300 for the more powerful GT THP 200 model, which – as its designation suggests – produces 200 bhp. ...However, the RCZ looks considerably more special, such that the extra £355 seems well worth paying (unless, of course, you really must have open-air motoring). Offering looks that rank alongside the Audi TT for considerably less money, it is the RCZ’s style, rather than its driving dynamics, that will draw buyers into Peugeot showrooms.

Jaguar unveils C-X75 supercar concept

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-09-30T12:58:31+01:00

Just ahead of its starring role on their stand at the Paris Motor Show, Jaguar has revealed a supercar concept designed to celebrate 75 years of the famous marque. The C-X75 concept car is electrically-powered with two micro gas-turbines spinning at 80,000 rpm to generate the electricity to extend the C-X75’s range to 560 miles. When the C-X75 is in ‘track mode’ these turbines can be set to boost the power of the car. The concept car is powered by four 195 bhp electric motors at each wheel, combining to produce 780 bhp and a stonking 1600Nm of torque. Jaguar say acceleration from 0-62 mph takes just 3.4 seconds, while 50 to 90 mph takes just 2.3 seconds. The top speed is said to be 205 mph. Carbon dioxide tailpipe emissions are zero for the first 68 miles then just 28g/km with the range-extending turbines running.

Roads still a transport priority in the USA

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-09-30T11:51:33+01:00

I’ve just returned from a two-week driving trip in the USA. Although faced by the same financial stringencies we face here in the UK – it was notable that investment in transport, and roads in particular, seems to be continuing apace. Everywhere we went from California to New Jersey, there was money being invested in transport infrastructure despite the recession. Perhaps the USA understands better than our Government in the UK that the efficient movement of goods and people is an essential element in any economic recovery. Public spending is tight, but we should be targeting money where it is needed now to make UK plc more efficient as we emerge from the recession. The contrast between America and Britain was brought home to me during the very week I returned. Whereas the traffic had flowed well in all our travels across the USA (even, when we were there, in Los Angeles!), the first drive on a commuter route in Britain took almost an hour to cover 15 miles – and it wasn’t even the rush hour! ...We all know that recent governments have used the environment as an good excuse to divert money away from road building programmes and roads maintenance. I should know, having just had a very painful reminder of the appalling state of our roads. I had to spend £150 replace a perfectly good tyre damaged irreparably by one of far too many craters. (Don’t let the authorities fool you, last winter was only the nail in the coffin, lack of maintenance over the past decade is the root of the current road disintegration.) The problem is that our transport infrastructure is so poor and our roads are so far behind in terms of maintenance, that it is difficult to see us ever catch up. And that is a worrying prospect, not just for road users, but for the wider UK economy and all who depend on it for their livelihood.

Testing times in America

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-09-14T04:17:37+01:00

Over the years I have been to Death Valley nine or ten times. Yes, I love the place – it’s amazing other worldliness, eye-popping scenery and unbelievable summer heat. ... I cannot resist seeing who is out testing what in the super heat of the national park. Over the years I have “bagged” a few new vehicles having their hot weather testing runs in the park. ...Yesterday in Death Valley Land Rover were testing two Defenders – a 90 Station Wagon and a 110 Station Wagon. Both cars were British-registered but also had New Jersey ‘Manufacturer’ plates. The 90 Station Wagon had what looked like exhaust gas analysers fitted to the exhaust. The vehicle was marked as “diesel” at the filler cap, but the engine sounded considerably quieter at tickover than a normal diesel. The supposition is that they were out hot-weather testing and the temperatures yesterday in Death Valley were 43ºC (109ºF). Like the year I headed from Death Valley to Yosemite to find two yet-to-be-announced Ford Escape prototypes, there was a surprise this year after leaving Death Valley. Having stayed overnight in Las Vegas, this afternoon we came across a convoy of four Fiat 500s on the I15 heading north towards St George. Like the Land Rovers, the cars had manufacturer plates (in this case Michigan plates) and prototype number on the rear glass. ...The testing programme suggests that we shall see the Fiat 500 on the US market soon, either badged as a Fiat or using one of the Chrysler badges, following Fiat’s acquisition of the US group.

Mito performance boosted by Cloverleaf

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-09-06T18:49:04+01:00

What marks this car out as being different from the Mito that I drove previously is the big Cloverleaf (or Quadrifoglio in Italian) triangle on its flanks. The cloverleaf first entered Alfa Romeo’s history in 1923 when a lucky cloverleaf was presented to the Alfa Romeo drivers before the Targa Florio. From there the cloverleaf went on to become the symbol for competition Alfas, before being used more recently to designate higher performance models. The analogy would be that, as Cooper is to Mini, Cloverleaf is to Alfa Romeo. ...The results, say Fiat, are that fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are both reduced by up to 10%, at the same time as increasing the power by 10% and torque by 15%. ...So much for the theory, but there is only way to check out a performance hatchback and that is on the road. ...Conversely, you can switch the DNA control the other way and you have an ‘all-weather’ setting, that calms down the responses and the power to keep you from losing traction in slippery conditions – not something I was able to test in the middle of summer. ...I would give credit to Alfa Romeo for sticking with conventional ignition key and a conventional handbrake. ...As I noted in the previous test, the steering wheel could do with coming lower and there is only just enough legroom if you use a straighter-leg lower seat setting. ...In the more responsive Dynamic mode the Mito Cloverleaf becomes quite a sporting machine, hugging the tarmac and eagerly attacking each corner. The chassis set up seems better than the previous Mito, but, I still felt there was a bit of restlessness about the way it rides. ...But the reality is that any enthusiastic driver will want to run the Mito Cloverleaf in ‘dynamic’ all the time, such is the transformation that it offers. ...Carbon dioxide emissions of 139 g/km put the MiTo Cloverleaf into band E, a band below its rival Mini Cooper S.

If this is the future of green motoring count me in

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-08-30T20:00:48+01:00

I’ve previously driven the Polo Bluemotion and, while impressed by its economy, low emissions and driveabllity, it would be a stretch to suggest it was a real driver’s car. ...That means the usual a neat design that evokes enough of the Golf heritage to be part of that lineage, combined with a no-nonsense design that projects a feeling of quality. It’s a similar story inside, although there are some give-aways that this is more the workaday end of the Golf range. ... Sad to say I have become so soft and so used to being pampered by leather-rim steering wheels, that the touch of a textured plastic one feels odd. ...Apart from these low-rent items, the rest of the interior has a premium look with that logical quality finish that makes a Volkswagen almost as good as the past masters at Audi. ...Where the Polo Bluemotion had quite a gruff diesel that made its presence noticed and felt, the Golf Bluemotion whispered so softly and smoothed its vibration so much that my wife was genuinely surprised (at the end of our drive) when I said it was a diesel! ...This is a whole lot more lively than you would expect from a diesel that has been set up with the principal aim of returning headline-grabbing economy and CO2 emissions. It definitely feels considerably quicker than its on-paper 0-62 mph time of 11.3 seconds suggests – probably because its in-gear ‘real’ acceleration is good. ...In chasing outstanding economy and low emissions, the Golf Bluemotion is fitted with the now common stop-start system that turns off the engine when you are stationary. The tyres are designed to offer low rolling resistance, electricity is regenerated from braking and (as previously mentioned) there are aerodynamic tweaks to the body. ...In my real-life driving there were a few times when I was stunned to see the average on the trip computer rise over 60 mpg on the open road. ... That may be a chunk less than the official figure, but it is still outstanding for a family-sized hatchback... especially as I have to admit I was not driving in a particularly economical manner. ...Little wonder that the new Golf Bluemotion has picked up a number of awards since it went on the market in the UK – most recently the ‘What Car?

Volvo S60 - more rewarding by degree

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-08-19T09:20:31+01:00

It certainly does look sleek, but I’m not sure I would go quite as far as Volvo design director Peter Horbury who said: “You are almost surprised to see that it has rear doors”. ...Volvo has gone out of their way to project the impression that the Volvo S60 is a real driver’s car with a sporting pedigree. At the launch there were plentiful name-droppings of former British Touring Car Champion John Cleland as having had a hand in fine tuning the handling. ...In a show of confidence, Volvo’s test route took us across some pretty unforgiving Aberdeenshire roads around Donside and Deeside, including the infamous Cockbridge to Tomintoul road known for its starring role on winter road reports. ...At that time Volvo had not long joined the Ford stable and I remember animated discussions continuing long into the evening about how Ford needed work its magic to tune the steering. ...Indeed, on a gentle hill start, I managed to stall the engine thanks to the rather wooden responses of the pedals, perhaps exacerbated by that difficult-to-reach parking brake. ...The test cars I drove were all diesels, yet the two-litre, five-cylinder S60 D3, in which I spent the most time, takes just 8.7 seconds to accelerate from 0-60 mph. ...At the end of the most testing section of the route over the mountain roads, I got out of the driver’s seat feeling a sense of disappointment that the expectations of a more sporting, responsive style had not been delivered. Had Volvo not made such a song and dance about the new car’s more sporty style, I might have been more willing to accept that this was simply a comfortable, quiet and undramatic way to eat up the miles. ...Next year, the line-up will expand to include the 115 PS diesel DRIVe model (which has achieved a preliminary figure of 65.7 mpg on EU combined cycle), plus three petrol engines – 240 PS T5, 180 PS T4 and 150 PS T3. It seems incredible, but having checked several times, the D3 and D5, apparently, return identical combined mpg figures of 53.3 mpg and also level peg on CO2 emissions of 139 g/km. ...It was difficult to conquer an involuntary lift on the throttle pedal, or dab on the brakes (both of which suggest to the car’s computing systems that you have spotted the pedestrian and are reacting). ...In addition the City Safety technology (standard on all models on sale in the UK) is designed to avoid or at least reduce the impact in traffic collisions at speeds up to 19 mph.

Vauxhall introduces lifetime warranties

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-08-05T16:19:23+01:00

Vauxhall has ‘set the cat among the pigeons’ with the introduction of a lifetime warranty on all its new cars. Until now it is Kia that have been the warranty kings with the UK with seven-year warranties, although fellow Korean manufacturer Hyundai offers a ten-year warranty in the USA. It seems likely that the move by Vauxhall, which points out it is Britain’s oldest surviving car manufacturer with a 107-year history, will encourage other manufacturers to look at extending their warranties, or even matching the Vauxhall offer. The new Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty will be introduced immediately and will apply to the first owner of any Vauxhall car registered from August 1 2010. Warranty coverage will continue throughout the life of the car until it reaches 100,000 miles. ‘With the Vauxhall Lifetime Warranty, we are making a strong statement of confidence in the quality of our products and a clear intent to provide the very best customer service in the UK,’ Duncan Aldred, Managing Director of Vauxhall Motors asserted at the press conference announcing the new warranty. The comprehensive new warranty cover includes powertrain, steering system, brake system and electrical equipment throughout the life of the vehicle. To maintain the Lifetime Warranty, owners will need to visit a Vauxhall retailer annually for a free vehicle inspection. Vauxhall has also said it plans to announce how second owners of Vauxhall cars will be able to purchase the Lifetime Warranty.

Citroen rediscovers style and class

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-07-29T17:04:16+01:00

The success of the Mini and the Fiat 500 has led car manufacturers to examine how they could grab a slice of the growing market for ultra-chic superminis. ...In recent years Citroen has been putting much of its effort – at least in the small car sector – into competing on price. ...How do you maintain your sales in the price-led market for practical daily transport and carve a slice of the style-conscious market at the same time. ...But where Mini and Fiat developed retro designs that evoked the iconic cars from their past, Citroen has chosen only to take a model designation from the pages of their history book. ...It was an unbelievably advanced model for its time, with styling that looked as though it was straight from a Dan Dare comic, hydro-pneumatic, self-levelling suspension, hydraulic powered brakes, steering and clutch. ...Their intention is to create an up-styled, upmarket range of DS models to run in parallel with Citroen’s mainstream. So, just as first of the new DS models, the DS3 lines up as the alternative to the C3, so a forthcoming DS4 will provide the same counterpoint to the C4 and DS5 for the C5. ...It would have been so easy to mess up a design like this with over-fussy detailing. Yet, despite very different design features, like the rear windows that sweep up forward from the waistline to the door pillar, the DS3 looks distinctive but ‘right’. ...There is good space in the rear seat for children or smaller adults, but (as you would expect on a smaller hatchback) taller adults will have to ‘horse-trade’ with front-seat occupants for knee and leg room. ...It has a responsive, agile chassis which I actually found quite reminiscent of the Mini (I guess they probably benchmarked the DS against the Mini driving style). ...Ironically the turbocharged engine under this bonnet is virtually the same as the one you will find in a Mini Cooper S. ...The test Citroen DS3 DSport 1.6i 16V THP150 is just a whisker slower than the Cooper S, yet it costs considerably less at £15,900.

Audi takes wraps of new executive coupé saloon

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-07-28T11:02:48+01:00

Audi has taken the wraps of its new Audi A7 Sportback, the German manufacturers challenger in the growing market for four-door saloons with coupé looks. The coupé style for saloons has recently been championed by Jaguar with the XF and now the XJ, but other obvious challengers include the Mercedes-Benz CLS. The order book for the new Audi A7 Sportback will open on August 16, with prices starting at £42,925. With the increase of VAT on January 1, this will mean a price of £43,745 when deliveries start early in 2011. The A7 makes considerable use of aluminium in its construction and Audi say this has resulted in 15% weight loss compared with an equivalent all-steel car. There will be two petrol engines and two diesels at the time of the launch – a 2.8 FSI with 204PS, a 3.0 TFSI with 300PS, a 3.0 TDI with 204PS and a 3.0 TDI with 245PS. The front-wheel-drive models will use a Multitronic CVT automatic gearbox, while quattro models will have a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. For the A7 3.0 TDI (204PS), Audi claim it will achieve 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds while returning a combined fuel economy figure of 53.3mpg with a remarkably low139g/km of CO2. All models will have an engine stop-start system. Sat-nav technology has also been called upon to help the economy. When the satellite navigation system is upgraded to MMI navigation plus, information on the road is fed to the automatic transmission. ...The same road information is used to enhance the performance of the optional adaptive cruise control and adaptive lights. Other technology headlines for the new car include parallel park assist, all-LED headlights, head-up display and adaptive air suspension.

Mini set to return to rallying

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-07-28T12:42:53+01:00

Mini is to make a return to rallying with ambitious plans to tackle the World Rally Championship, starting with selected rounds in the 2011 series and a full season in 2012. The original Mini, of course, boosted its image with numerous rally successes for the Mini Cooper S, driven by drivers like Paddy Hopkirk and Rauno Aaltonen. Hopkirk won the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally at the wheel of a Cooper S, while Aaltonen won the RAC Rally in 1965 and the Monte Carlo Rally 1967. The car for the new rally challenge will be the new Mini Countryman WRC, which is being developed with Mini by Britain’s Prodrive competition car specialists, probably best known for their long association with the Subaru rally team. Power for the rally version of the Mini Countryman will come from a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder turbo-charged engine produced by BMW Motorsport. As such it will comply with the new Super2000 regulations introduced by the FIA for cars with 1.6-litre turbo engines and four-wheel drive. Prodrive has been working on developing the MINI Countryman WRC since early 2009.

Land Rover Discovery 4: Big isn't it, impressive too.

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-07-28T15:42:05+01:00

You actually step up to sit in the driver’s seat, but – once installed – it is a superbly luxurious and commanding place to be. ... This makes it even more obvious is how the Discovery has moved upmarket in perfect synchronisation with its more luxurious sibling, the Range Rover. ...Since Discovery 3, the tailgate has folded down, like the Range Rover, to provide a suitable perch from which to watch the polo while sipping an ice-cold Pimms. My road test car was the Land Rover Discover 4 3.0 V6 HSE so it had all the toys right down to the heated steering wheel. ...But, although, we have established that the Discovery is big, apart from the height in multi-story car parks, I found no problems when nipping around town or tackling cross-country B-roads. Diverted from the multi-storey, I had to resort to an on-street parking place and I have to say there are many cars more fearsome to manoeuvre into a tight space. ...This vehicle is something of a mobile CCTV unit with two cameras at the front, two pointing down from each door mirror, plus the one at the rear. ...Out on the twisty side roads, for a tall vehicle, the Discovery is quite remarkable how flatly it corners (thanks to the ‘Roll Stability Control’) even during quite spirited driving. ...While many of its competitors are really only fit for light off-roading, the Discovery will tackle the worst of conditions – if you have the courage to risk muddy footprints, plus undergrowth scratches and mud splatters on your fine metallic paint. I took the Discovery out on my off-road course and, not surprisingly it romped across the heather moors and rutted tracks with disdain. ...At more than three tons, you would not expect the Discovery to have lightening performance but this big beast will accelerate from 0-60 mph in a remarkable nine seconds. Combined fuel economy is quoted as 30.4 mpg, but in real life I managed just a shade under 20 mpg in a mixture of town and country driving. ...The price tag on the top-of-the-range test car is £49,140 – some £16,000 more than the entry level 2.7 TD V6 GS.

Peugeot 3008 is quite appealing

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-07-19T15:22:26+01:00

Anyway, when you actually think about it the 3008 is pretty logical, it is an incremental model on the 308 range – an MPV based on the 308. ...Although the 3008 is designed to be an MPV in style, like so many similar vehicles, don’t expect it to offer lots of spare seats. ...The 3008 follows the current Peugeot “big mouth” styling, but to my eyes it is a little bit more successful in that, being a taller car, the maw is more like a conventional radiator grille. ...This projects the speedometer, not onto the windscreen, but onto a small clear plastic panel that motors out of the dashboard, just at the bottom of your line of sight. ...With the proliferation of speed cameras there is pressure on drivers to divide their attention and watch the speedometer almost as much as the road. ...I’m still puzzling how this massive roof blind disappears into the small rearmost section of the roof – it simply doesn’t look big enough to stow it! While vertical visibility is outstanding thanks to this massive glass sunroof, other aspects of the 3008’s visibility are not so good. ...Not only was there a very high sill, but the boot floor appeared to be half way up the car! ...The bottom half swings down to offer a flat area for your picnic goodies, or (presumably if you are not too gargantuan in size) to use like a seat as you do on a Range Rover. ...The other unusual feature is that the boot floor that I saw when I lifted the tailgate is actually a shelf that you can position at different heights to give yourself a split-level boot. ...Pity, though, that the lid is hinged on the side and – in the UK – it is on the driver’s side, making it a little tricky for the driver to access. ...If the drone can be the downside of some diesels, the upside is usually fuel consumption and that is certainly true on the 3008 where I thought a mid 40s figure overall was quite noteworthy. ...At £20,595 for the Peugeot 3008 Exclusive HDi 110 (just three slots down from the top-of-the-range), With entry-level 3008 models from £16,695, it also seems quite competitively priced..

Ford Galaxy: civilised transport for six, or seven

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-07-17T17:54:09+01:00

The prospect of driving a Ford Galaxy for some days left me wondering whether I really wanted to drive a small bus, usually with just myself on board. But, from the very first journey, I realised that this was actually a very civilised means of transport. ...The corporate Ford of Europe look makes it look a more compact package than the previous Galaxy model which was co-produced with the Volkswagen Group. There is a lot of Ford Focus about the lines of the Galaxy and its interior. ...The Galaxy may be a sizeable MPV with three rows of seats to accommodate six or seven passengers, but it feels nimble and agile on the open road. ...As to its load-carrying capacity, I was visiting a community worker during my time with the Galaxy and parked it alongside his almost identical car. He was quite strong on the praise for its ability to carry groups on various outings. Although he is over six foot, he assures me that he can sit reasonably comfortably in the fold up rear seats, but added “at least for a short distance”. ... He amplified his statement suggesting that he would be willing to sit there from Perth to Aberdeen – a distance of some 90 miles. ...You can also move the rear seats completely out of the way to transform the Galaxy into a pretty good interpretation of a van. ...Although they open in line with the vehicle, rather than at the side, they are certainly reminiscent of small versions of the overhead bins in an aircraft. The test car had Ford’s latest Ecoboost engine – a two-litre petrol engine designed to deliver high levels of efficiency. ...These include a rear-view camera for reversing, blind-spot indicators on the mirrors, a sunroof with blinds and blinds on the side windows.

Land Rover produces baby Range Rover

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-07-01T18:47:02+01:00

These are the first official pictures of Land Rover’s new baby Range Rover, released following an exclusive preview in London for guests attending a 40th birthday celebration of Range Rover held in partnership with Vogue magazine. Named the Range Rover Evoque, Land Rover describe the newcomer as a “coupé” and it will join the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport line-up in the summer of 2011. Its appearance follows the positive reaction to the LRX concept, which Land Rover took around the motor shows in 2008. The aim of the new car is, of course, to capitalise on the cachet of the Range Rover name and use it to expand Land Rover’s market in a world where the trend is towards more compact and more economical cars. Now, buyers in the compact off-road market, will be able to drop the name “Range Rover” into their conversations over cocktails! ...Recognising that many buyers would like the image of a Range Rover, without necessarily ever intending to don green wellies, the new Range Rover Evoque will be available in two-wheel-drive form – surely the first time Land Rover has produced a two-wheel-drive vehicle. With the aid of two less driven wheels, Land Rover say that some models of Evoque will have carbon dioxide emissions under 130g/km – a figure that will puncture many objections to so-called ‘Chelsea tractors’ (4x4 off-roaders that never tackle anything tougher than the kerb outside the posh shops of Chelsea). A picture of the Land Rover LRX Concept, showing how closely the Range Rover Evoque follows the concept car. Phil Popham, managing director, assured buyers that Land Rover would not be letting the Range Rover moniker head down market: ”Customers can be confident that the new car will be premium, luxurious and just as special as the other Range Rover models,” he said. “Its sporting looks and unique qualities will open the brand to a new group of customers who may not have considered a Range Rover product before.” The Range Rover Evoque is destined to be sold in more than 160 countries. The all-new Range Rover Evoque will make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show at the end of September and will go on sale from next summer.

Murray's city car unveiled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-29T19:26:40+01:00

Gordon Murray – best known for his design of the McLaren F1 supercar and Formula 1 racing cars – has turned his attention to designing a radical new city car. The result, Gordon Murray Design’s T.25 City Car has been seen in public for the first time. The first thing you notice are its compact dimensions, which allow the car to park at 90 degrees to the kerb. Parked this way, three T.25s can park in the space normally allocated to one car. At home, two T.25s can park in a normal one-car garage. Gordon Murray Design has even suggested the T.25 could allow authorities to explore the possibility of two vehicles travelling and overtaking in the space normally allocated for one lane. Even with conventional-width lanes, the company says that its short length offers the potential to triple the lane usage at peak times. From a sustainability perspective, the T.25 has been designed to reduce the environmental impact of its manufacture. The central driving position draws a parallel – albeit within a very different design – to the McLaren F1 supercar. As well as being practical, Gordon Murray Design say it “generates a unique, ‘cool’ and fun driving experience”. ... • a unique door opening system, that allows occupants to get in and out when space is limited and allow easy access easy access to the rear child seats. • ultra lightweight (approximately 550kg) that increases component life, reduced energy needed to power the vehicle and, hence, increases fuel efficiency. ... • space for between 1 and 3 passengers with luggage space between 160 litres and 720 litres.

Mini updated to add appeal

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-30T19:22:29+01:00

Mini has given its model range a refresh to face the challenge from other current and future entrants into the chic small hatch market niche. We have already seen the Fiat 500 and Citroen’s new DS, but there are others on the way – notably arch-rival Audi with the Audi A1. There is a mild redesign both inside and out and two new diesel engines that (at 99 g/km) qualify for free road tax in the UK. Both the Mini One D and MINI Cooper D achieve the same combined consumption figure of 74.3 mpg and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km. Yet, Mini say the Mini D Cooper accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 9.7 seconds while the Mini One D Hatch (90hp as compared to the Cooper D’s 112) still reaches 62mph in 11.4 seconds. ...For the first time there will be a diesel version of the open-top Mini, when the Cooper D Convertible joins the range in August. Using the same 112hp engine as the Hatch, the Convertible accelerates to 62mph in 10.3 seconds, but has a 70 mpg combined mpg figure and emits just 105g/km of CO². Mini say this is the lowest emitting and most economical ‘full’ convertible vehicle on the UK market today. ...A new front bumper with a lower air intake is not just to give the car a new look, but also to improve pedestrian protection. New style fog lamps adorn either side of the air intake which on MINI One and Cooper features a black cross bar to emphasise the car’s low, wide stance. On the Cooper S two air intakes feed the brake discs and enhance the sporting intent of this model. At the rear, there is a new bumper and the tail and brake lights are LEDs while the brake lights use dynamic intensity lighting that varies according to the deceleration force applied. ...All radio systems are equipped with a CD player and AUX-in connection that supports MP3 players.

Skoda's executive load carrier

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-28T08:52:56+01:00

So, you want an estate car with more than a touch of luxury and plenty of space to stretch out? If that is your dream, you may have concluded that you need a mortgage, not a loan, to buy the car to match your needs. Well, just as the Skoda Superb saloon offers outstanding space and luxury for the money, now you have the option of the estate car version. ...Where the hatchback has the innovative ‘Twindoor’, that offers the flexibility of using the car as either a saloon or a hatchback, the Skoda Superb Estate offers just the usual estate-car tailgate. ...But, because it is flat and nicely carpeted it also provides the ideal carpet bowling arena for that rare porcelain vase you bought at the antique auction. On the SE and Elegance models, Skoda provide you with one of those useful system on sliding rails that let you create a corral for your load. With the back seats in use the Superb’s boot will hold almost 600 litres, with the seat backs down this expands to 1700 litres. ...Adding to the limo image, as with the hatchback, there is an umbrella built into the rear door, so that you can perform your chauffeur act in true style. ...The test car also made parking easier with the £425 park assist system that identifies parking spaces big enough for the Superb and also helps the driver to execute the perfect reverse park manoeuvre. After all, what’s the use of the chauffeur looking cool with an umbrella if the car is parked at a un-pretty angle? ...A two-litre engine in a big estate car may sound like the recipe for dull performance, but the Superb responds well and the quoted 0-62mph acceleration is a remarkable 8.9 seconds. Combined fuel consumption sounds really good at 47.9 mpg, but (possibly because I was working this small engine a little harder) my best overall was 33 mpg – still quite creditable for a big estate like this. ...But, if you want a reasonably priced estate car, with real comfort for rear-seat passengers, the Skoda Superb Estate actually is in a class of its own.

Ford reveals 2011 Mondeo

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-25T13:53:27+01:00

This is Ford’s updated 2011 Mondeo, which will be launched at the 2010 Moscow International Automobile Salon on August 25, before going on sale in the UK in October. The new Mondeo has restyling inside and out and will also feature Ford’s new EcoBoost petrol and TDCi diesel engines. Ford say there are a “host of new driver comfort and convenience features and safety technologies”. Notable among the styling changes are new grilles, with a bolder lower trapezoid intake. The grille above the bumper line is slimmer and meets a new bonnet profile. The new model incorporates LED daytime running lights, and re-designed rear lights also LED. Inside there is a new centre console design, revised door treatments The interior is also upgraded and features a new flow-through centre console design, revised trim and a new central overhead console with ambient lighting. The new Mondeo be the first with a new 240PS version of the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine, alongside the existing 203PS version of this engine launched in Mondeo, new S-MAX and new Galaxy earlier this year. The new Mondeo will feature energy regeneration and also an active grille shutter system, that closes the airflow through the radiator and engine compartment reduce drag and improve warm-up times in cold weather. Technology options include, for the first time in a Ford model, Lane Departure Warning, Driver Alert and Auto High Beam. New features already introduced in the latest S-MAX and Galaxy models are now extended to the Mondeo range, including the Blind Spot Information System, Speed Limiter, Rear Door Power Child Locks and Rear View Camera.

Greenest Skoda ever

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-24T13:43:04+01:00

The new Skoda Fabia Greenline II will become the most environmentally-friendly car ever to wear the Skoda badge which goes on sale on sale in the UK next week. The second generation Greenline is powered by a new three-cylinder turbocharged 1.2 TDI CR 75bhp DPF common rail engine which achieves 83.1 mpg on the combined cycle. Carbon dioxide emissions are 89g/km, which means the Fabia Greenline II qualifies for a free tax disc in the UK. One of the biggest technological changes to boost fuel efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions is the introduction of the stop-start system. The price of the new Fabia Greenline is £13,740. At the moment it is only available as an estate car, but the hatchback version will be available from October.

Clio Renaultsport targets young enthusiasts

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-24T13:00:14+01:00

Even though it was warm week in summer, I would probably still have my white woolly “skully” crammed onto my head and pulled down over my ears to protect them from the non-existent biting wind. ...Admittedly, the last half a mile of road to our house is unsurfaced with potholes that put even our cratered public roads to shame (much to the chagrin of my fellow motoring writers who have to accept cars coated with mud or dust). By the time I reached the main road I was wondering if there was a spec sheet that would confirm that suspension had been fitted. ...The Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup is not a car that your granny would like a run to the shops in. This is an extrovert sporting vehicle where compliant suspension has been traded for a taut sporting set up. ...This car loves twisty roads and it awakened my old motorsport days – I would love to have had a race circuit, or a hill climb track to drive it on. With its racing style seats it is comfortable, too and surprisingly easy, considering the sporting side bolsters, to get in or out. The gearbox is close ratio and changing gear is enjoyable because the pedals are ideally positioned for heel-and-toe changes (where you use the side of your foot to raise the revs, while braking, ready for the lower gear). ...At 70 mph the engine is revving at over 3000 rpm and is accompanied by the rorty exhaust note that gives the car some of its raw, sporting character. ...Combined fuel economy is 34.4 mpg, but in reality (even being reasonably restrained in the use of the performance) my overall was 27 mpg. ...But, I wouldn’t want to drive it all the time, with its hard suspension and rorty exhaust. I’d like to keep it for track days and drive something more civilised the rest of the time. But then, if I was wearing that white “skully” maybe I would look at things differently!

Saab 9-5 the start of a new era

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-11T21:56:10+01:00

Six months on from the obituaries, against all the odds Saab is back with a brand new model the new Saab 9-5. Started under the ownership of GM, the new car is launched under its new owners Spyker. Saab say that the design has aimed to be sleek and sophisticated, but above all unmistakably Saab. The pictures bear that out, with the traditional Saab wrap-around windscreen. The frontal styling is inspired by Saab’s Aero X concept car. High-tech features on the 9-5 include an aircraft-style head-up information display projected on to the windscreen, adaptive lighting and adaptive cruise control, parking assistance and a four-wheel-drive system. The engine line-up, all-turbocharged, starts at 1.6-litres with a choice of petrol and diesel versions. “This car is the start of a new era for our brand,” says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile’s CEO. “We have created an advanced and very distinctive product by leveraging the power of our roots in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design, sporty driving and responsible performance. The all new 9-5 delivers in all these respects, as will every future product from Saab.”

Saab 9-3X driven by all fours

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-19T19:52:50+01:00

Just six months ago it looked like Saab was doomed, as reported in my rather blunt, but sad, post ’Saab: The end’. ...Although the 9-3 has been around for some time, the 9-3X is the four wheel drive version that was just launched at last year’s Geneva Motor Show. Powered by a 2.0 Turbo it has slightly raised suspension and the obligatory pretend skid plates to give that off-road appearance. The four wheel drive system is electronically controlled and distributes the torque between the front and rear axles and there is a limited slip differential at the rear. The 9-3X has the estate car or, as Saab call it, the Wagon body offers a very usable load space with a volume of 419 litres with the rear seat up and 1,287 when it is folded down. ...The Saab 9-3 might have a Vauxhall Vectra platform, thanks to previous owners General Motors, but really does have enough Saab identity clues to keep most aficionados happy. ...The windscreen has more than a hint of wrap-around, and the dashboard is the usual curved driver-focussed panel, with Saab’s sliding lattice air vents. Oh, and there is the usual ‘Night Panel’ Saab aircraft-inspired switch (I have never actually used this feature for anything other than novelty, though!). ...I found the steering precise enough, but just a little bit lacking in feel and the gearlever is also a little floppy. ...In those early days, when the turbo cut in, I recall it was like some giant planting his big feet on the accelerator as the Saab took off with the front wheels scrabbling for grip. ...On this, and the previous Saab 9-3 1.8t that I drove some years ago, the power is clearly boosted, but it is delivered in such a way you as to be smooth and totally progressive. ...At £26,805, the Saab 9-3X provides a welcome option for the buyer who wants an up-market load carrier with the added reassurance of four-wheel-drive. It is a real pleasure to mark the continuation of Saab by writing about this car six months after I thought we might never see another Saab ever again.

Renault on the right Latitude

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-09T18:54:42+01:00

Renault has today provided the first glimpse of its latest global family saloon, Latitude. The Renault Latitude will get its first public airing at the Moscow Motor Show at the end of August, while European motorists will be able to see it at the 2010 Paris Motor Show in October. At the front a central grille is flanked by bi-xenon adaptive directional headlights, while chrome is used to project the car’s up-market aspirations. Chrome features on the rear of the car, with a strip that bears the model name between LED rear lights. Renault say the Latitude will have one of the biggest boots in its class. Based on the same architecture as the Samsung SM5, which was recently launched in Korea, Renault say the Latitude will offer a comfortable, quiet ride, as well as a precise chassis. There will be a choice of power units. The Renault Latitude is due to go on sale this autumn, chiefly in Asia, Africa, the Gulf States, Mexico, Turkey, Russia and Australia. The European version will go on sale around the turn of the year.

New Suzuki Swift unveiled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-10T14:35:32+01:00

Suzuki has released the first images and preliminary information of the new, third generation Swift which will go on sale in the UK in the Autumn. The new Swift will be produced at the Magyar Suzuki Corporation factory at Esztergom, in Hungary. Suzuki says the aim has been to make significant advances in styling, impact safety, driving performance and handling, along with improved fuel consumption and significantly lower emissions.

Nissan 370Z a true hairy sports car

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-06-10T15:18:51+01:00

The Nissan 350Z was quite a hairy little sports car and a worthy successor to the Nissan Z cars of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Well, the 370Z is, if anything, more aggressive in its styling and – with a bigger engine and more power, it promises more performance. ...I shall never forget a well-known rally driver scaring the pants off me with a drive in this coupé with its almost sugary-sweet, innocent name tag! ...But, with the seat fully back, it was right up against the rear bulkhead, so – short of getting a coachbuilder to build me a long wheelbase version – that was it. Combine this slightly restricted foot space with a clutch pedal that bit at the very last fraction of its travel and it took me quite a few miles to find a way to drive reasonably smoothly at low speeds. ...But let the horns come out a little when you find a nice twisty bit of tarmac and you can really begin to enjoy the Nissan 370Z the way it was intended. ...It is delivered with an intoxicating growl and bags of torque that will propel you down the road at a more than decent rate. ...This is something that enthusiasts achieve manually using the ‘heel and toe” technique – with the left side of your throttle foot on the brake, rocking your foot to press the throttle with the right side. ...Despite this driver aid, I could not describe the Nissan 370Z as an effortless car to drive. ...The boot is also small and requires any luggage to be carefully hoisted over the rear bodywork to avoid the danger of scratches to the paintwork of your pride and joy. ...The rear window is very low, meaning you are more likely to see the numberplate of the following car than the “police” sign on its roof! Over the left shoulder vision at oblique junctions is non-existent, meaning you have to square up on the approach to a junction, as you would in a van. ...Trouble is, at £33,195 with the GT pack and sat-nav this is not the sort of car you could have as a weekend play thing.

Citroen C3 endears itself

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-05-19T16:27:49+01:00

I was prepared for a rather dull and uninspiring time with the Citroen C3 1.6 HDi. ...The latest version has substantially updated looks inside and out that certainly make the C3 a considerably more stylish option. Inside the grey gloss finished dashboard and other refinements give the car a rather more distinctive, even slightly up-market, appearance. This is something that is needed in the post-Mini, post-Fiat 500 era where style counts for so much. For its size, the little C3 has bags of practicality, with four doors good space and a good boot. The 1.6HDi engine may be just 90hp but it feels a lot faster than the 0-60 time of 11.3 seconds would suggest. ...Translated into real driving conditions, what that means is that diesels may be reasonably easy to beat off the line, but they tend to perform better where it really matters – in the overtaking range. I found myself constantly surprised by the C3’s willingness to wind up on the acceleration out of dual carriageway roundabouts. ...There is very little to suggest there is a diesel engine under the bonnet – the cabin being well insulated from noise and vibration. ...The suspension too is soft and absorbs surface imperfections – like the myriads of potholes that now litter our roads – with aplomb. ...The C3 grips the road well and with good balance and good feedback, the driver can feel confident in its ability. ...The combined fuel consumption figure is 65 mpg and, in the real world, I managed to record 60 mpg on country roads – a figure that, not so long ago, would have seemed nigh impossible. ...The Citroen C3 1.6HDi Exclusive costs £15,290 and comes well equipped with cruise control and air conditioning as standard.

Insight fails to impress

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-05-06T19:23:57+01:00

To do that, I assumed the Insight would be an ‘aspirational’ car, projecting a technological image and providing a strong appeal to sophisticated types (like the Hollywood actors who have been falling over themselves to buy the Prius, in an attempt to parade their green credentials). ...The rather garish instruments are obviously inspired by the Honda Civic, but are a lot less successful, with the honourable exception of the neat display showing what the power units and regeneration. ...The insight appears to have been pitched at the budget end of the market, rather than the aspirational image-conscious market I had expected. ...Like the Prius, the Insight has two power units – a conventional petrol engine and an electric motor. ...Also like the Prius, I was expecting the Insight to simply tell me it was ready and wait before using the electric motor to waft silently away from standstill. ...Power output from the 88PS petrol engine can be augmented by the 14PS electric motor when you want maximum power. ...Given that there are many non-hybrid cars that will achieve these sorts of figures, or better, I have to say that the Insight again proved a disappointment. ...Carbon dioxide emissions are 105 g/km, leaving the Prius to take the accolades once again, with free road tax against an admittedly small £35 for the Impulse. ...You have already gathered that refinement is not a strength, but the ride quality is also far from ideal, sometimes proving a bit lumpy. It may just be the test car, which had clearly had a long and hard life, but I was disappointed to note a number of rattles. ...The lower section of this window has an unusual “squashy” net panel that can be popped in or out to provide privacy for the boot’s contents, Although the boot floor is quite high, due to the electronics, there is a remarkably deep cubby below the boot floor. ...The Honda Insight 1.3 IMA ES-T Hybrid CVT costs £18,890, which makes it £615 less than the cheapest Toyota Prius. But – if I was persuaded that a hybrid really was the best way to save the planet – I would find that extra money and choose the Prius.

Prius revisited. The first hybrid matures well.

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-04-23T15:55:44+01:00

In those days, it’s seamless mixing of electric motor and internal combustion power was so fascinating I remember asking my wife to drive so I could just watch the graphic display that shows, second-by-second, where power was coming from and going to. ...On both of these cars the focus is not purely on economy, it’s more about extracting efficient power and performance while moderating the consumption. ...Examining the Prius with these thoughts in my mind, I think I could not find a manual means to select neutral on the move and to kill the engine. I am now told I was not giving it time, Toyota’s UK PR people kindly pointed out that you just have move it to neutral and “hold it a second or two” (to prevent accidental selection). ...What’s more, it doesn’t just do this to provide the power to drive the car, it also has the ability to switch on the petrol engine to recharge the battery pack when needed, or to run both motors in tandem for maximum power. ...The Prius is pretty quiet at all times and it is hard to tell if the petrol engine in running or not, without looking at the rev counter or the power graphic display. ...If you press the accelerator to demand more acceleration, the Prius will, almost imperceptibly, start up its petrol engine and, if you demand maximum performance, the electric and petrol engines will work in tandem to deliver it. You can press the EV button (green, of course) on the dashboard if you want to drive the Prius purely in electric vehicle mode. ... ...The result of all this is the Prius has CO2 emissions that are so low at 92g/km that the Chancellor of the Exchequer (whoever that may be after the General Election) will hand you your tax disc absolutely free. However, there are many diesel cars on the roads that will achieve as good, if not better mpg and equal the Prius in terms of earning a no-cost tax disc. ...But, I found the Prius quite at home on the twisty stuff and the only refinement I would have wished for would be some way to downshift into corners. ...The rear screen wiper, in the top part of the window, is also hinged on the left side, which is not ideal for right-hand-drive.

Suzuki's chunky hatchback

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-04-19T17:58:10+01:00

This is the latest version of the Suzuki SX4 a small hatchback/SUV/MPV crossover that was developed in partnership with Fiat and is manufactured in Hungary. Although it has been around for a number of years, this is the latest version with a number of revisions which make it much more appealing. ...The desire is to drive a car that reflects something of your lifestyle and your desire to stand out in a crowd. ...We have seen with cars like the Nissan Qashqai and Ford Kuga, that there is a demand for cars that have an off-road image, but without the cost and the economy penalty of a full-time four-wheel-drive system. Like the Qashqai, the big sellers in the SX4 will be the front-wheel-drive models, but there will be a four wheel drive option. Confusingly, Suzuki has chosen to differentiate the models within its SX4 range by using the letters SZ followed by a model number. Thus, the SZ4 I drove is the top two-wheel-drive, or in Suzuki parlance it is an SX4 SZ4... confused? ...The top-of-the-range SZ5 four-wheel-drive model is due to be released this month. ...For this latest model, the 1.6 petrol has been re-worked and now produces 10% more power (up to 120PS), but also 10% lower fuel consumption and a 13% reduction in emissions at 143g/km of CO2. The performance is not sparkling, but, once you have signalled your wish to move up a gear the SX4 proves remarkably lively and willing. ...It is also an easy car to drive, either nipping around in traffic, or, out on the open road. ...This is a five-door car in a market sector where a number of its obvious competitors are three-door. ...That makes getting in and out much easier — something that is important for a car that is likely to be used around town.

Panamera: Can it really be a four seater?

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-04-18T17:40:45+01:00

Ever since I first saw a Porsche Panamera lurking in San Francisco street, before the launch, I’ve been intrigued as to how practical the rear seats actually are. Well I have just had the opportunity to find out. I stopped off to visit a fellow motoring writer from carkeys.co.uk, who currently had a Panamera on test. Unfortunately, there wasn’t time to go for a drive, but I just had to check out the rear seat in a town centre car park. Proof that the rear seat is usable, even in a tight car park It’s a remarkably civilised place to be, as this photo shows. I do think, David, that you could have removed your can of Irn-Bru, though! (It looks a little like the cylindrical gear selector and the Jaguar!)

Fastest-ever road-going Ferrari

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-04-08T11:18:35+01:00

These are the first photos and information on the new Ferrari 599 GTO, the company’s fastest-ever road car. Described as “an extreme V12 berlinetta”, the 599 GTO has been developed to a specific performance-oriented brief. It is an exclusive limited edition special and is described by Ferrari as “a completely new concept, albeit inspired by a production car”. This refers to the 599XX, the advanced experimental track car, which can be considered almost a road-going version. The name is significant. The 599 GTO is reserved for just 599 customers who will be discerning enough to seek “the maximum expression of high performance driving”. They will presumably also have to have fairly deep pockets. The 599 GTO has already set a record lap time at Fiorano in 1’24”. The 599 GTO puts out 670 hp, which – in a 1495kg car – represents a weight-to-power ratio of just 2.23 kg/hp. Acceleration 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes just 3.35” and the top speed is over 335 km/h (208mph).

New Volkswagen Touran launched

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-04-09T10:59:49+01:00

Volkswagen has chosen the Leipzig Motor Show to unveil its refreshed Touran compact MPV. The refreshed styling is aimed at giving the Touran a family look that connects with the latest Polo, Golf and Touareg. The new grille features the new-look of strong horizontal lines that are replicated in the new front bumper. At the back revised tail-lights featuring intricate LED bulbs are fitted along with a new tailgate and bumper. ...The third row of seats can be folded down into the floor to make space for 695 litre of loads pace. With the middle row of seats folded this increases to 1,913 litres. Oddments space is well catered for, with Volkswagen boasting that there are no less than 39 storage compartments around the new Touran – just remember where you put everything! New forced induction engines are aimed at greater performance and economy combined with fewer emissions. The entry-level petrol engine is a new 1.2-litre TSI unit delivering 105 PS. It’s joined by a 1.4-litre TSI engine developing 140 PS. ...A 1.6-litreTDI engine is available with a choice of 90 or 105 PS outputs while the 2.0-litreTDI engine offers 140 or 170 PS. In addition, the 1.2 TSI 105 PS petrol and 1.6-litre 105 PS diesel engines can be specified in BlueMotion Technology trim complete with Start/Stop and, in the case of the latter, the ability to return 61.4 mpg on the combined cycle – making the new Touran the most efficient MPV Volkswagen has ever produced. The new Touran will go on sale in the UK in September with the first models arriving in October.

No, I did not crash the Pagani Zonda

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-25T16:37:36+00:00

(I did once set a new class record on a hill climb and had minor success on a couple of club rallies, but that hardly counts as being a “champion driver”!) There are probably more exotic motor cars in this area than anywhere else in the UK, thanks to Aberdeen being an oil centre second only to Houston. ... More recently, shopping at Sainsbury’s, we parked in the bay next to a Ferrari F50. ...I now find it coming up on the internet with newspapers and blogs in the USA reporting the story. I suppose the fact that it is Aviva’s biggest ever payout for a crash repair at a reported £300,000 has fired people’s imaginations. Poor Sir Jackie Stewart got sucked into the story today, with The Press and Journal newspaper running a story naming the former world champion as the “professional driver” who was behind the wheel when the Zonda spun into an Aberdeenshire telephone pole. His office, however, pointed out that he wasn’t even in the country last September when the accident happened! ...I had my share of notoriety some years ago, when I, too, crashed a road test car. At that time I was presenting a motoring programme on the radio and my producer at the time spotted one of the Cadbury’s Creme Egg promotional vehicles parked at a hotel just doors from the radio station. ...But, in order to get the round front, some of the controls and pedals had to be moved around. I completed my high-speed test driving round the building at a dizzy 30 mph and was in the process of trying to park when my foot got jammed against the steering column. I was not able to extricate it in time when we rolled gently forwards into the back of what was instantly renamed as a Ford Eggscort. The story was splashed across The Sun – slightly embellished to make it sound as though we were actually broadcasting on the air at the fateful moment.

Kia joins the clean elite

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-22T15:52:23+00:00

In actual fact -- as I was driving this Cee’d EcoDynamic around the roads -- in Geneva Kia was taking the wraps off a newer version which scrapes below the threshold to win a free tax disc for its owners at 90 g/km! Like so many of this new breed of “eco“ cars, I found the Cee’d a little difficult to drive smoothly at first. The combination of very tall gearing and ultra-frugal engines with aggressive fuel cut-offs, mean they require a rather different driving style. With ‘over-the-top’ tall gearing to squeeze every last mile out of each gallon, you have to remember that you sometimes need a lower gear than expected. You also have to overcome the fear that the engine is simply going to labour and bog down as you take off in a higher gear that feels right. ...These cars are also not particularly responsive to the throttle and, in a world that has become used to 0-60 times around ten seconds, the Kia’s 13.5 does look a bit relaxed. ...When you come to a standstill in traffic, once the engine is warmed up it will turn itself off to save fuel. ...A minor quibble is that Kia have not perfected the way to keep the radio playing uninterrupted as the starter motor fires up the engine! ...As before with the Cee’d I was impressed with the European character of the car, which is of course produced in Slovakia. ...To me, driver enjoyment is about a car that is responsive, both in terms of its performance and its handling. ...But faced with two sets of keys, it was the head not the heart that made me reach for the ones with the Kia badge. As noted in the previous Kia tests, the probable deal-clincher for many buyers will be indicated by that little sticker on the rear window. ...That means with the Kia Cee’d EcoDynamics you are getting a car that is almost the size of a Ford Focus for the price of a Fiesta.

Hidden danger of 'keyless entry'

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-22T15:45:21+00:00

At a convivial lunch last week, with fellow motoring writer friends, I was reminded of the occasion when we found that the downside of keyless entry systems. I had just handed over a Renault to the next driver in line and made him a cheery farewell as he headed off down the street, only to stop and do a three-point turn. He drove back in haste and zoomed down the window. “Have you got the keys?,” he asked in a rather anxious tones. Just as well he asked, because I was about to drive off in my own car in the opposite direction. I’m not sure at what point poor Dave would have discovered that he didn’t have the keys which were, of course, in my pocket. Probably it would be somewhere in the middle of nowhere, in the pouring rain, with the doors locked and his mobile phone sitting on the centre console inside a locked car! So just watch out if you get a car with a keyless entry system!

Alfa brings back the Giulietta

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-07T19:10:00+00:00

Alfa Romeo has revived the Giulietta name for its new five door hatchback. Previously this name was used on the attractive to door coupe produced in the 1950s and then again for a series of saloons produced in the 1970s. The new Giulietta was exhibited at Geneva in five different versions — two Quadrifoglio Verde (Cloverleaf) versions fitted with Alfa Romeo’s 235 HP 1750 TBi engine, two Distinctive versions with 170 HP 2.0 JTDMturbodiesels, and a Distinctive version fitted with the 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol engine. At the front the Giulietta has the trademark Alfa triangular grille, complete with a new interpretation of the classic shield, embedded in the front bumper. The side windows have been designed to give the appearance of a coupe, using the recent Alfa Romeo trick of concealing the rear door handles. Alfa Romeo say they have paid particular attention to the ergonomics and every command control has been carefully located. The main controls are grouped together in the centre of the dashboard using a design that is similar to the 8C Competizione. The navigation system, with pop-up display, allows the driver to view either maps or mechanical operating information about the car, without looking far from the road. As with the Alfa MiTo, customers can customise the Giulietta with sports or premium packs, plus a range of options that includes a large panoramic sunroof, navigation system, sound systems and Bluetooth packages.

Bentley announced details of Mulsanne

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-06T18:43:35+00:00

At the Geneva Motor Show, Bentley announced details of its new Mulsanne, stating that it “reaffirms the marque’s intent to create a new flagship Bentley with refined performance, unparalleled levels of interior luxury and coach building skills to the fore”. Great play is made of the fact that the Mulsanne was designed and engineered at Crewe “from the ground up”. The design features the traditional Bentley matrix grille and highly prominent classic round headlamps, featuring the latest lighting technology. With a long bonnet the design is intended to convey a sense of power and movement and design director Dirk van Braeckel says that his team set out “to create a sculpted form that blended classic Bentley heritage cues with modern lines”. Customers will have a vast range of options, with more than 100 pink colours and through the bespoke Bentley Mulliner, unique colours can be chosen to match a customer’s precise requirements. ...The Mulsanne comes with a 14 speaker audio system connected to the world’s most powerful production car amplifier, offering 2200 watts of power. A personalised keyless entry system offers multiple pre-programmed configurations -- automatically setting radio stations, phonebook, seat (including ventilation and massage modes front and rear), steering column, seatbelt settings and even the electrically operated rear seat blinds on the side and rear windows! In all, some 170 hours (almost half of the total build time) goes into crafting the interior of each Mulsanne. Customers can select from a range of veneers and two marquetry options. There is also an almost unlimited range of leather options. Power comes from a 6.75-litre V8 which puts out 512 PS with 120 Nm of torque. Acceleration 0 to 60 mph takes just 5.1 seconds, while a top speed is quoted at 184 miles an hour. Fuel economy combined figure is 16.7 mpg with CO2 emissions of 393 g/km.

Audi A1 e-tron extends range with Wankel engine

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-05T18:20:55+00:00

Audi predicts new A1 e-tron concept on its stand at the Geneva motor show. It has an electric drive system, with backup power produced by a small Wankel engine. Unless I’m mistaken, this is the first automotive use of the Wankel engine, outside Japan, since the NSU Ro80 produced in Germany during the 1960s and 70s. The Wankel rotary engine, used in the Mazda RX-7 and RX-8, does not have conventional cylinders, but uses a rotary action for a compression, combustion and exhaust. The electric drive system on the A1 e-tron gives the car a range of more than 31 miles in city traffic, with a peak output of 102 PS. Acceleration 0 to 62 mph is quoted at 10.2 seconds, with a top speed of more than 80mph. When the battery is flat, the compact Wankel cuts in to recharge it. With the benefit of this, ODC the range of is extended by 124 miles. The expectation is that its fuel consumption will be rated at 140.7 miles per gallon, with carbon dioxide emissions of only 45 g/km. Audi say that the electric drivetrain, with range extending engine, require “absolutely no sacrifices in terms of sportiness or comfort” and go on to assert that the car will offer high standards in terms of driver enjoyment.

Seat shows IBE concept car at Geneva

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-04T18:01:31+00:00

Seat took the wraps off its IBE concept car at the Geneva motor show. Described as a compact sports coupe, it is intended to be a zero emission car of the future combining “a sporty and dynamic concept for urban mobility”. It is a welcome return to a unique design language for Seat, still focusing on the marque’s target youthful market. The IBE concept car is 3.78 metres long, making it just 25 cm shorter than an Ibiza. A two door design, the IBE features an extremely low bonnet and long roofline. Visual highlights include the LED headlights, the Seat signature of an arrow shaped bonnet and at the back the rear light clusters again feature LED technology. The power unit is under the flat bonnet, with lithium-ion battery at the rear. Maximum power output is said to be 75 kW (102 PS), Seat see this delivers exactly “the kind of dynamic driving fun you would expect of a car that looks so sporty”. For city driving 0 to 50 km/h takes 3.4 seconds. It will reach 100 km per (62 mph) in 9.4 seconds. Battery capacity is said to be “plenty to cover all the daily mobility requirements of city life”, but no specific driving range has been quoted.

Vauxhall shows Flextreme concept

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-03T16:11:29+00:00

Vauxhall has revealed its Flexstream GT/E concept car at the Geneva Motor Show. The Flexstream is described as an extended range electric vehicle designed to achieve power without using fossil fuels. Vauxhall say the intention is to show that side is no barrier to driving a car with zero carbon dioxide emissions. The car’s ill aerodynamic efficiency is demonstrated by a drag coefficient of just 0.22. The design is deliberately made to look low and wide, with wing-shaped lights front and rear. The car has been given what Vauxhall describe as a distinctive nose and grille, with muscular, sculpted bodywork. Access to the cabin has been enhanced, say Vauxhall, by adopting rear hinged doors. To keep the exterior looks clean, all the door handles have been replaced by light sensors. These trigger the doors to open when covered by the driver’s or passenger’s hand. To reduce air turbulence, and door mirror are replaced by small cameras. There is a fixed glass panel in the roof and this automatically allows sunlight to warn the car include weather, darkening to reduce heat in the summer. The drive system for the Flexstream is similar to the Vauxhall Ampera and the car is expected to offer similar performance, with a battery power range of 40 miles and a total range of more than 300 miles. Average fuel consumption is estimated at 175 mpg, with CO2 emissions of less than 40g/km.

Seat Ibiza Cupra tiptoes through snow

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-01T17:04:00+00:00

Had I known it was only a one-day break between two periods of snow, I would have made sure I drove the car more that day. ...My own car being four-wheel-drive, not surprisingly I reached for its keys and for the next few days the Seat languished under a mountain of snow. ...So, discretion being the better part of valour, these were no conditions to explore the Cupra’s performance and handling characteristics! ...I headed home quite impressed with the Cupra, only for it to block its copybook by refusing to tackle the driveway up to the house. ... (In its defence, I should say it did better than the BMW 3 series that would not even move on the flat in the snow the previous winter.) ...You don’t have to look far to spot that this car is put together using platforms, engines, gearboxes and the myriad of other bits from the groups corporate parts catalogue. But, just as the Skoda is still a Skoda, so Seat has managed to stamp its Latin image on the Ibiza. ...It took me a few minutes to find my driving position, adjusting the sport seats to the perfect position and then finding I had to raise the steering wheel just a tad, so that I could see the top of the instrument panel. ...I’ve long been a fan of DSG gearboxes and their ability to shift gear in double quick time, usually with little fuss. This one proved good, although occasionally it was a little slow to pick up speed when moving gently away from standstill. ...All in all, given the constraints of slippery roads, I was really quite impressed with the Seat Ibiza Cupra. ...Power on the Seat Ibiza Cupra comes from a 180 PS 1.4-litre which sports both a turbocharger and a supercharger. ... I was returning figures on my trips well into the upper 30 mpg bracket (had the roads been clear, the temptation to use the performance would no doubt have increased the consumption!).

Ampera prototype drives to Geneva Show

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-03-01T16:37:43+00:00

The first prototype of Vauxhall’s production Ampera has successfully completed its long-distance drive debut from Rüsselsheim to the Geneva Motor Show. At the wheel for the final leg of the 500-kilometre journey, was Vauxhall CEO Nick Reilly. The team fully charged the 16kWh lithium-ion battery at Opel/Vauxhall Opel/Vauxhall’s European headquarters, then set off using pure battery-electric power. After around 60 kilometres, near Heidelberg, the gasoline-powered generator started up to provide the Ampera’s electric motor with power. On arrival in Geneva, the battery was plugged into a conventional socket and re-charged . The Ampera arrives at the Geneva Show “As 80% of drivers normally travel less than 60 kilometres per day, it is the exception rather than the rule that they experience the combustion engine in operation,” said Nick Reilly at his arrival in Geneva. “Of course we want to be certain that the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera also runs smoothly during long-distance operation.”

Chevrolet Cruze not one for the enthusiast

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-02-24T18:15:16+00:00

It looks distinctive and, in a land of hatchbacks, it stands out by being a saloon. ...Sadly I found myself fighting with the various seat and steering wheel adjustments, trying to find a comfortable driving position. Even after a lot of adjustment, I still found my clutch foot hanging in midair, because the pedals are so far off the floor. ...They resembled ashtrays, and it was far too easy for your fingers to slip out the slot and to tear a fingernail (or two, in my wife’s case). Once I had found unacceptable seating position and managed to close the door, I started to manoeuvre out of the car park. ...Out on the open road, the Chevrolet Cruze proved notably quiet, with good insulation from road and engine noise. ...Although the Chevrolet Cruze LT has the 1.8-litre engine, it often felt quite sluggish during initial acceleration. ...The 1.8-litre engine puts out 141 bhp and propels the Chevrolet Cruze from 0 to 62 mph in 10 seconds. ...Where the Chevrolet Cruze does score is by offering a family saloon, with reasonable space, and a keen price. ... Oh, and if you are seduced by the very American sounding name, just note that the Chevrolet Cruze is produced in Korea, badged Chevrolet following GM’s takeover of Daewoo. However, I cannot see anyone who enjoys driving really finding that the Chevrolet Cruze complements the driving style. ... It just seems that the final refinement and sophistication of the driving experience was one of the economies in the development of this car. So it comes down to how desperate you are to buy a new car at a keen price.

A1 is Audi's new compact supermini

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-02-11T19:37:32+00:00

This is their first small hatchback since the Audi A2 and it will be launched at the Geneva Motor Show next month. ...The A1 also uses a start-stop system to switch off the engine when stopped in traffic and an energy-recuperation system that generates power from braking. Audi says the A1 will benefit from highly fuel-efficient engines which compensate for their small capacity by using turbochargers. In the UK the range will start with a new 1.2-litre TFSI petrol engine which will have a power output of 86PS, delivering a 0-62mph time of 12.1 seconds along with what Audi describe as “55.4 mpg capability”. ...Next up will be the now familiar 1.4 TFSI power unit, delivering 122PS with a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. The 1.4TFSI accelerates to 62mph in 9.1 seconds, but matches its smaller-engined sibling on both economy and emissions, delivering up to 55.4mpg with CO2 output of 119g/km*. ...It has a 0-62 time of 10.8 seconds with a potential maximum of 72.4mpg with emissions of 102g/km*. ...As evidence they point to the achievement of front weight bias of between 61 and 63% and the fitment of the latest version of their ESP system. ...There will be SE, Sport and S line options in the UK, with either 15-inch, 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels. ...Xenon headlamps with Audi’s trademark LED daytime running lights will be available at extra cost exclusively for S line models, but there is likely to be the usual Audi tempting list of options. ... That sounds a tad brash for an Audi, however the DAB radio and iPod connection are much more appealing. The A1 will also offer a choice colours, materials and equipment options designed to make each car feel as unique and personal as possible. The ‘roof contrast line’ — a contrasting colour scheme for the A, B and C pillars as seen first in the A1 project quattro study in Tokyo – is just one of the many options available.

Nissan Juke, as British as a duke?

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-02-11T19:37:10+00:00

Nissan has unveiled the new Juke, some weeks before its official launch at next month’s Geneva Motor Show. Following the lead its sibling, Qashqai, the Juke is styled to have the appeal of an SUV, but most models will be only front-wheel-drive. The badge may be Japanese, but Nissan are pushing the Juke’s British credentials. It was designed at Nissan Design Europe in London and will be built in Britain alongside the Qashqai. It will go on sale in the UK in October. The Juke was first revealed as the Qazana show car at last year’s Geneva Motor Show. Nissan say the aim was to blend the rugged appeal of an SUV with emotion of a sports car. It also shares its 1.5-litre dCi turbo engine with them. A 1.6-litre engine along with a new direct injection petrol turbo with 187 bhp power output. The top-of-the range Juke will use this more powerful engine mated to a CVT gearbox and four-wheel-drive. Where some cars, with four-wheel-drive on only certain models, miss out on potential luggage space (such as the Ford Kuga) when the rear drive is deleted, the Juke has an additional underfloor space in the back for front-wheel-drive versions. Under the skin the Juke uses the same platform as the Nissan’s Micra and Note and Renault’s Clio and Modus.

Touareg loses weight and becomes more green

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-02-11T18:13:12+00:00

Volkswagen’s second generation Touareg has been unveiled and the new car has been on a diet, loosing no less than 200 kg. To help improve its green credentials the new Touareg is up to 20% more fuel efficient than its predecessor and there is also a hybrid version. ...They say, with some justification judging from the first photos, that it is more distinctively Volkswagen and it also looks to have been designed to look less massive than its predecessor. ...The standard equipment will include and eight-gear transmission and most models will have a stop-start system that will save fuel when stationary in traffic. Technology options include High Beam Assist, which will dip the headlights automatically when it senses oncoming traffic, Side Assist warns of vehicles in the driver’s blind spots, while adaptive roll compensation air suspension presumably does ‘what it says on the tin’. ...The new Touareg Hybrid model marries a 3.3-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine and an electric motor. ... The electric motor puts out 47 PS, giving a combined power of 380 PS and 428 lb/ft torque. The electric motor can run on its own at speeds of up to 30 mph, resulting in no tailpipe emissions. ...The entry-level Touareg, which is expected to be the best-selling version, is the 3.0-litre V6 TDI. With a power output of 240 PS and 405 lb/ft of torque, Volkswagen claim it will return 38.1 mpg on the combined cycle emitting 195 g/km of CO2 to place it in VED band J. The top of the range is the new 4.2-litre TDI V8 engine producing 340 PS and 590 lb/ft of torque sits at the top of the new Touareg range. ...Available with the V6 TDI engine, the Escape model features a system called 4XMOTION which comprises reduction gearing, centre and rear differentials that can each be fully locked for off-road applications and five stage control for the four wheel drive system. The first stage is for on-road applications, the second is for off-road use and activates automatic control for the mechanical differential locks, stage three engages the low-range gearbox with revised mapping of the gearbox to raise the shift points and switches off the automatic upshift in manual mode.

More detail about way forward for Saab Spyker

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-02-02T14:07:42+00:00

The intention is that Spyker Cars NV will change its name to Saab Spyker Automobiles NV, with two separate operating companies – Spyker and Saab – focussed on their own particular markets and their own vehicle lines. Saab Spyker has said it is committed to carry through the Saab business plan. But, the new owners believe they can actually enhance the plan in a number of ways. The Saab 9-4X which will be manufactured in Mexico Saab will be a stand-alone niche car manufacturer and Saab Spyker plans for Saab to have three or four model lines: • Saab 9-3 in sedan, hatchback, sports estate and X (four wheel drive) versions ... • Saab 9-5 in sedan, sports estate and X versions ...The first of the new models will be the Saab 9-5 which will be launched early this summer. This will be followed by the new 9-4X early in 2011 and the all-new Saab 9-3 in 2012. Saab Spyker see Saab being repositioned against other premium brands such as Audi and BMW. The new owners believe that Saab’s Technical Development Center in Trollhättan has the capability to developing complete vehicles. They also say that Trollhättan is one of the most efficient mid-size car plants in Europe. Against that background they envisage production and sales volumes building back to recent pre-crisis levels of about 100,000 to 125,000 vehicles, including the 9-4X which will be built in Mexico.

Spyker statement on Saab purchase

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-01-27T11:05:36+00:00

General Motors Company and Spyker Cars N.V, late yesterday confirmed the details of a binding agreement over the transfer of ownership of Saab Automobile AB of Trollhättan, Sweden. The transaction is expected be finalised in February and Saab will then come out of the wind-down process set in motion by GM. The purchase price will be US$74 million paid in two instalments. The purchase agreementis subject to the implementation of a €400 million loan between Saab and the European Investment Bank (“EIB”), guaranteed by the Swedish Government. The new Saab 9-5 already in production at Trollhattan The Swedish government has approved the guarantee, but it is subject to approval by the European Commission. Contrary to some media reports, Spyker is purchasing Saab as a complete entity and going concern. Included in the deal are all intellectual property rights, trademarks, facilities and other infrastructure. Spyker also say the sale of pre 2003 Saab 9-3 and current Saab 9-5 technology to BAIC in December 2009 did not result in any part of Saab’s business being divested or devalued. They add that Saab has already started the production of the new generation Saab 9-5 in Trollhättan.

Mini Countryman the new 4x4 Mini

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-01-20T17:56:28+00:00

The new Mini Countryman is not only the first MIni to offer four wheel drive, it is also the first with four passenger doors (the Clubman has three passenger doors, the third controversially being on the “wrong” side for the UK). ...BMW say that the new model is a genuine crossover, because it “bridges the gap” between the Mini and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle. ...Despite this the engineering team have apparently sought to maintain the “go-kart” feeling of the Mini’s driving style and responses. Following the lead of other manufacturers, the Countryman will be available in both two and four-wheel-drive versions. ...The proportions follow the Mini style and there are short overhangs both front and rear, combined with a high window line. BMW say the new car, reinterprets the characteristic Mini icons, such as the roofline and the hexagonal radiator grille, plus the headlights and the upright rear lights. ...The Mini Countryman comes as standard with four seats, but a three-seat split-fold bench is available as a no-cost option. There will be three petrol and two diesel engines in the Mini Countryman range at launch, ranging from the from 90 hp Mini One D Countryman through to the 184 hp in the Mini Cooper S Countryman. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the top model comes for the first time not only with a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection, but also with fully variable valve management which BMW claims will offer the best balance of engine power and fuel consumption in its class. Aiming to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, the Mini Countryman also has BMW features like brake energy regeneration and auto start-stop. In addition to the six-speed manual model, petrol engine models have the option of a six-speed Steptronic automatic. ...It utilises an electro-hydraulic differential positioned directly on the final drive, to vary the power distribution from front to rear, with an infinite range of permutations. Under normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the engine’s power goes to the rear wheels, but under extreme conditions this can go right up to 100 per cent.

New Ford Focus unveiled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-01-11T14:27:43+00:00

The choice of an American launch is significant, because Ford have said this new Focus will be almost identical in all their global markets. ...The new model will start production in the USA and Europe later this year, ready for a market launch in early 2011, with UK sales due in the first quarter of 2011. ...Again the Focus will be produced in both saloon and hatchback forms, meeting the different wishes of Europe (where the hatchback is the most popular) and the USA (where there is a preference for saloons). The new Focus will be one of up to ten unique models to be built from Ford’s new C-car platform, which is expected to generate total sales in all regions of two million units annually by 2012. The first of these will be the new Ford C-MAX and Ford Grand C-MAX – unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show – for launch in Europe in the second half of 2010. “Global customers increasingly want smaller cars with outstanding fuel economy, but without sacrificing any of the style, technology, connectivity and driving quality they demand from larger vehicles,” explained Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “Our next generation of C-cars – led by the exciting new Focus – will clearly show that Ford is ready to meet that challenge,” he concluded. Design of the new model has been led from Europe, at Ford’s small and medium vehicle centre of excellence in Germany. ...The global powertrain lineup for the new Focus will include a range of state-of-the-art four-cylinder turbocharged direct injection (DI) engines dubbed EcoBoost, offering reductions in fuel consumption of between 10 and 20% compared to the outgoing models. The technology package of the new Focus is said to include features that would be surprising to customers in premium segments. Ford say these new technologies have been designed to be simple and highly intuitive to enhance both convenience and safety, Among these will be what Ford describe as “a combination of controls and display screens to operate the key vehicle features”. The Focus will also have a new generation of Ford’s SYNC connectivity package, which includes a sophisticated voice control system, Bluetooth and satellite navigation, along with connection points for a variety of devices and media players. Attention to detail is said to include not only the touch and feel of cabin materials, but also their smell and the design team are said to have worked on detail such as the sound of the doors when they are closed and the thickness of the padding and size of the stitching on the steering wheel rim.

Peugeot celebrates 200th year with new look

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-01-08T20:02:58+00:00

It was in 1810 that Jean-Pierre and Jean-Frédéric Peugeot turned their father’s cereal mill into a steel foundry and took the Peugeot family into the industrial era. Now 200 years later, Peugeot has launched a new version of its famous lion badge and a new look for its cars based on the SR1 concept car. The new look is a welcome move away from the “gaping mouth” look of recent Peugeots and, judging by the SR1, the new look is more likely to win plaudits in the style stakes. But the interest in the SR1 concept car goes much further than it looks. The concept employs what Peugeot are calling their HYbrid4 technology, which will be available in the Peugeot 3008 from 2011. On the SR1a 1.6 litre THP petrol engine, with a power output of 218 bhp, is combined with a rear electric motor developing 95 bhp. In electric-only mode, the car becomes a Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV), with a combined cycle fuel consumption of 57.7 mpg or 119 g/km of CO2. When the two power trains operate simultaneously, the SR1 develops a potential maximum power output of 313 bhp, while benefiting also from four-wheel drive. Peugeot say this HYbrid4 technology will eventually be available on different models in the Peugeot range. The Peugeot SR1 concept car will be unveiled to the general public at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, in March.

Spyker submits offer on Saab

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2010-01-07T19:52:12+00:00

Spyker Cars, of The Netherlands, today confirmed it has made a revised offer to General Motors for the acquisition of Saab Automobile AB. "We have continued a constructive dialogue with GM over the acquisition of Saab,” Victor Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars stated. "We believe the Saab brand has lots of potential and would be keen to close a deal as quickly as possible." The Spyker C8 The news comes at a time that General Motors have started the process of “winding down” Saab, while also stressing that they will continue efforts to find a buyer. GM have confirmed that they have “several proposals” for Saab, including a bid from a group that includes Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone.

Google Earth in new Audi A8

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-12-29T21:18:54+00:00

Owners of the new Audi A8 will be able to use services like Google Earth to search for points of interest, if they choose the optional integrated GPRS/EDGE modem linked to the latest generation MMI navigation plus. The results are then displayed on the onboard map or used as destinations for route calculation. A8 owners will also be able to plan destinations in Google Maps (or on Audi’s web portal) at home or in the office, then retrieve the information in the car. This new technology will be further enhanced in mid 2010, when Audi launch a new UMTS modem. This will enable faster data transfer as well as allowing simultaneous voice and data connections. Using this new modem Audi will become the first motor manufacturer to integrate Google Earth with the car’s sat-nav system. With Google Earth on the eight-inch LCD, the Google Earth imagery and 3D terrain model are combined with the detailed street network from the navigation database. The MMI navigation system also analyses navigation data to help predict driving conditions and relay information to the control units for the automatic cruise control (with Stop & Go), adaptive lights and the eight-speed tiptronic gearbox.

By-pass proposed in 1957 is approved

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-12-21T12:57:25+00:00

John Swinney, the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth in the Scottish Goverment, has give the green light to a 28-mile, £395 million by-pass for Aberdeen. The approval for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route comes 52 years after the then Secretary of State for Scotland approved the new river crossing for the first by-pass proposal in 1957. It was never built. Built in 1527 the Bridge of Dee is the only break in trunk road dual carriageway from Pisa in Italy The current by-pass was first proposed in the mid 1990s by the former Grampian Regional Council. But it was not until 2003 that then First Minister of Scotland Jack McConnell announced that the Scottish Government would pay 81% of the cost of the by-pass, with Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Councils paying the balance. Today’s announcement follows a 10-week public local inquiry in 2008. The Scottish Government has set a target date of 2012 for the road to open. Until the by-pass is built, Aberdeen – the principal centre for North Sea oil and gas – will continue to be connected to the European trunk road network by the Bridge of Dee built in 1527. Having driven the road myself a few years ago, I know that the bridge is the first break in a dual carriageway roads that stretch (apart from the Channel) some 1,800 miles from Pisa in Italy.

Saab: The end.

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-12-19T15:20:38+00:00

A short statement from Spyker signals the end of the road for Saab. The formerly General Motors-owned Swedish manufacturer is now expected to close its doors after 71 years. In February, Saab moved to establish its independence from troubled GM empire. After the deal with Swedish supercar maker, Koenigsegg fell through, there was hope that the supercar company Spyker would take the company over. But a simple statement issued yesterday signalled what looks like the end of the road for Saab. ...The statement says: “Spyker and General Motors ("GM") decided today that the intended sale of Saab Automobile AB will not be concluded. “During the due diligence, certain issues arose that both parties believe cannot be resolved prior to the expiry of the deadline set by GM (i.e. ... As a result, GM will start an orderly wind-down of Saab operations.” ...Victor Muller of Spyker added: “We sincerely regret that we are not able to complete this transaction with GM. We worked 24/7 for three weeks, but the complexity of the transaction in combination with the strict deadline simply did not allow us to complete the transaction timely. Our thoughts are with the wonderful management and employees of Saab in these challenging times". Footnote: On Sunday, December 20 reports came of a revised offer from Spyker and some news media hinted that there might be other offers. Meanwhile the Swedish Government were reported as confirming they would not get involved in a state-backed rescue.

Aston Martin's Cygnet hatched

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-12-17T17:38:06+00:00

Aston Martin has released the first official images of its new Cygnet, previously seen here as a styling mock up. Based on the Toyota IQ, the Cygnet is described by Aston Martin as “a creative, environmentally conscious solution, being small, yet with presence”. The aim is to combine fuel efficiency with the prestige and luxury of an Aston Martin. The idea is that you would keep keep your DBS, DB9 or Vantage for grand touring, but use the Cygnet for your more eco-friendly daily commuting. Aston Martin say that work on the concept is ongoing and will continue into 2010, but they hope it will become a production reality.

BMW 1 Series electric concept

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-12-17T17:24:12+00:00

BMW has unveiled a new concept vehicle to signal the German marque’s approach to electric vehicles. The BMW Concept ActiveE is based on the BMW 1 Series Coupe and is BMW’s second electric vehicle after the Mini E. The aim of the Concept ActiveE is to test out practicality of electric drive for every day use and BMW says it will also aim to deliver “driving pleasure” as one of the characteristics of a BMW. To that end, the BMW Concept ActiveE follows BMW practice by retaining rear-wheel-drive. The drive system is also powerful enough for dynamic acceleration and the engineers have also aimed for a high level of efficiency, so that the vehicle can be practical beyond purely urban mobility. Unlike the Mini (and other electric vehicles where battery storage takes up passenger or luggage space), the Concept ActiveE has four full-size seats and a 200-litre boot volume. Powered comes from a new synchronous electric motor specially developed for this vehicle. Its maximum output is 170hp, the maximum torque of 250Nm is available from standing as is typical for electric motors and remains available over an unusually broad load range. Predicted performance is acceleration 0-62 mph in less than 9 seconds. Maximum speed is predicted at around. 90 mph (electronically-limited). As with the MINI E, the real-world range is expected to be about 100 miles on a single charge, depending on conditions. Flexible charging technology enables the lithium-ion battery pack to be recharged by a conventional power outlet at public charging stations or at a special wall box. On the European grid, the battery pack can be fully charged at a high-current power outlet (50 ampere) in as little as three hours.

Jaguar XF just gets better

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-12-17T20:16:12+00:00

When I had my first real drive of the Jaguar XF I was just about as impressed as I hoped to be, given all the compliments that were flying around from those who had driven the new generation Jaguar before me. ...While it was as refined as you would expect for a Jaguar and would, quite frankly, have been described as “superb” in many cars, it was just a tad short of performance for a car bearing the leaping Jaguar. ...At the time I drove that XF, Jaguar had already brought out a new three-litre diesel. It has taken some time to get my hands on the higher-performing model, but for the best part of a week I have been wafting around in a Jaguar 3.0 Diesel Sport Portfolio. ... ...If that really bothers you (and in normal driving it shouldn’t) you can change the settings to sports or dynamic. ...As my wife pointed out (perhaps as a pointed comment the quality of my manual gearbox changes) you can hardly detect when the XF is changing gear. ...As you do the gear selector dial motors out from its ‘resting’ position flush with the top of the centre console. ...To give the performance a little more edge you can click the gear selector one notch further than ‘drive’ to select sport. If that is not edgy enough for you, you can then prod the chequered flag button on the centre console to enter the dynamic mode, which really is a bit ‘hyper’. ...I preferred to let the sports setting, combined with an occasional tug on the paddles, propel me at a rapid, but sensible pace. ...My week with the Jaguar coincided with the first real frosty cold snap of the winter and, once again, the Jaguar XF delighted. ... It was obviously too early in the morning to remember that there was likely to be a heated windscreen, so I prodded the demist button without much hope of avoiding the scraper.

BMW Z4 is a true sports car

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-12-05T17:57:28+00:00

It was this time last year that BMW first took the wraps off the new BMW Z4, which went on sale in May this year. ...Taking temporary ‘ownership’ of the new Z4 in the month of December in the UK, I really did not expect to be able to appreciate the joys of a convertible. ...One glorious afternoon, the temperatures crept well into double digits (centigrade) and I pulled over, pressed the button and, 20 seconds later, sampled the joys of open-top motoring for the 15-mile run home. ...Going to a roof that takes 20-seconds might superficially sound like a retrograde step, but the switch to a folding metal top gets my seal of approval. ...The 23i test car has a 2.5-litre, the 30i does have a three-litre, but the 35i also has a three-litre — but with a substantially greater power output. Being the entry model in the range, the 23i is not the car you would buy for ultimate performance, but I found it very satisfying and it combines its performance with remarkably good economy. All the Z4s have elements of BMW’s Efficient Dynamics and I found myself returning figures in the upper 20s and, occasionally, got very close to the official combined figure of 34.4 mpg. ...Such controls are common on automatics where they change the characteristics of the gearbox (which indeed they do on the automatic versions of the Z4), but they also sharpen the steering and throttle responses. ...‘Sports+’ switched off the electronic aids like ESP and, noting the greasy nature of damp winter roads, I felt happier with the “safety net” of these systems to help gather things up if I put a foot wrong. ...On the open road my grin simply got wider as I savoured the wonderful balance of a well-sorted rear-wheel-drive sports car that just went exactly where you pointed that purposeful bonnet. ...In an era when so many cars have us stowed in a very vertical “sit-up-and-beg” driving posture, I really liked getting back into a car where you sit more like a racing car driver — low down, with your legs outstretched in front of you. With ample adjustments it is easy to get comfortable and, in this position, you really feel at one with the car. ...But at £28,650 you have to remember that — if you want to carry larger numbers of passengers, or bulkier things — this is quite an expensive second car.

Ford Kuga goes 4x2

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-11-24T16:37:23+00:00

I have to admit that I did not approach my road test of this Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi in a particularly positive frame of mind. ...The fact that – at the end of my time with the new Kuga 2WD – I was more than a little fond of it, speaks volumes. ...Needless to say, the front-wheel-drive Kuga is very similar in most ways to the 4x4 Kuga which I tested last year. As I said in that first encounter, you can think of the Kuga as something like a Ford Focus on stilts. ...That’s because, in normal road conditions, your Kuga 4x4 disconnects the power to the rear wheels and becomes front-wheel-drive. ...But, cutting the extra engineering four-wheel-drive engineering makes this Kuga is lighter on your wallet and lighter on the road. ...On my mix of country and city driving I got an average of around 37 mpg, which is about two mpg better than with the four-wheel-drive version. The combined figures of 46.3 mpg suggest there is greater economy to be had if you exercise even more care with the right foot, Emissions down 10 g/km to 159 g/km of CO2. As you would expect, the Kuga is very practical transport with good access and good space for four, possibly five passengers. If you are expecting the loss of the rear transmission to mean a lower load floor, however, you will be disappointed. ...If you provoke it the front wheels will want to plough on in a corner, but it is all very controllable. The two-litre diesel engine is the only option on the 2WD version, but it is a good unit. ...The price of the Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi Titanium is £22,445 (exactly £2,000 less than the 4WD version as I said).

New BMW 5 Series unveiled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-11-24T15:35:58+00:00

The new car is not likely to cause quite the stir that the fifth generation model did when it was announced with its then controversial styling. ...Certainly that would tie in with what is ‘flavour of the month’ with many manufacturers. While some are going for taller profiles, prestige manufacturers like Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes seem to be competing to see whose saloon looks most like a sports coupé. Much of the news with the 5 Series is under the surface, with features like a new automatic start-stop technology to boost economy, park assist, night vision, head-up display and an automatic gearbox with no less than eight gears! BMW promise their usual attention to driving dynamics with a claim of almost perfect 50:50 front/rear weight distribution. Opinions will have to wait until we have had a chance to drive the new car, but BMW are talking boldly of “unrivalled driving dynamics” and a car that “sets new standards”. Notably, the latest BMW has very short front and rear overhangs with the result that it claims the longest wheelbase in its class at 2.9 metres. ...The spacious ambience can be increased by opting a large glass roof panel which allows light to flood into the rear as well as the front seats. BMW say they have incorporated many of the cabin features from the 7 Series in the new 5 Series. ... The multifunctional steering wheel has been simplified, putting all of the function keys in one hand and infotainment in the other. The new BMW 5 Series Saloon will be launched in the UK on March 20 next year. Prices start at £27,555 – which BMW point out is only £125 more than the previous model. The bonus is that the new model comes with Dakota leather, BMW Professional radio and Bluetooth phone preparation.

Spyker relocates to the UK

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-11-23T09:56:45+00:00

Spyker Cars, the Netherlands-based manufacturer of specialist sports cars, is relocating its assembly operation to the UK. The company says that relocating its assembly lines from Zeewolde to Coventry, will result in considerable improvements in efficiency and also substantial cost reductions. The move is expected to be complete by the end of this year. Around 45 of the 135 jobs at Spyker will be affected. "In these challenging times, a small manufacturer like Spyker has to find ways to reduce costs as well as improve its efficiency,” says Victor R. Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars. “With approximately half of our vehicles’ parts and components sourced in the UK, and virtually all key suppliers being located there, moving closer to our suppliers and engineering partners will result in substantial savings and tangible efficiency improvements”. Spyker Cars was originally founded in 1875 as a coach builder, producing its first motorcar in 1898. The original Spyker company ceased trading in 1925, but its brand name and reputation for technologically advanced, exotic and dependable cars has been passed on to the new Spyker company and its cars.

Formula one news and rumour

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-11-19T21:52:15+00:00

A round-up of some of the Formula 1 news from a busy few days end-of-seasons dealings, news announcements and rumours. ...As if the rumour mill was not hot enough, Autocar waded in on Wednesday, November 18 with the suggestion that Michael Schumacher would drive for Mercedes in 2010. This was quite the most surprising of the current rumours, given the on-again, off-again story of how he was going to take the seat for the injured Felipe Massa this past season. That culminated in a reported statement that he would never return to F1. But it does tie in with rumours that Mercedes want two German drivers in their new team, having acquired Brawn GP. It would also tally with Jenson Button feeling the need to move away before the team is fully re-liveried with the three-pointed star. ...Also on Tuesday, the Guardian said that Kimi Raikkonen had run out of options for 2010. He had been looking at McLaren, but with Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button signed, there was no space for him. On Wenesday, November 18 the BBC was saying that Kimi Raikkonen was going to try for a drive in the World Rally Championship. But earlier it had been said that Raikkonen would earn more by sitting out 2010 in any case. And, the man who is known for rather sullen looks in end-of-race interviews, did look so much happier and relaxed when competing in the 2009 Rally of Finland! ...On Tuesday, November 17, the BBC reported that Formula 1 returnees, Lotus, were feeling the pressure of rejoining the sport with a name that has so many associations with success in the past. ...On Monday, November 16 at 22:00 GMT, the Guardian announced that Jenson Button had indeed agreed to join McLaren on a three-year, £6 million-a-year deal.

New Volvo S60 first official pictures

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-11-10T21:05:16+00:00

These are the first official pictures of the new Volvo S60, which the design team say is “sportier and more dynamic than any previous Volvo car”. Under the new-look exterior the Volvo S60 puts strong emphasis on safety as usual. Volvo say the new S60 will be available with Pedestrian Detection, a system that can detect pedestrians in front of the car and brake automatically if the driver doesn’t react in time. The new Volvo S60 will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in the beginning of March next year. Production will start early summer 2010 at Volvo Cars’ plant in Gent, Belgium.

Focus RS delivers performance

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-11-04T16:40:44+00:00

As it was, on one of the very few occasions I parked the RS (I seemed to prefer driving it for some reason!), two young lads walked by. Oblivious to the fact that I was in earshot affixing the parking ticket to the car, they were debating in animated manner what colour “their” Focus RS would be! ...I didn’t seem to attract hordes of boy racers trying to show me who was master (only one who was determined to get past to show me a clear pair of heels), but I know other testers who have had more unwelcome attention. ...Mine were not the only eyebrows raised that the new Focus RS is not four-wheel-drive and that has fuelled some concerns about the ability of the front wheels to cope with all that power. As fate would have it, the roads remained particularly wet and greasy throughout my time with the Focus RS, but I can tell you that (with the usual measure of common sense) it is indeed very controllable. ...As someone who has always preferred the handling of rear-wheel-drive or rear-biassed four wheel drive I was wondering if I would be disappointed with the RS. ...The technology achieving this includes a Quaife automatic torque biasing limited-slip differential, a crafty new design of front suspension which Ford have dubbed RevoKnuckle and a specially-developed ESP system with traction control. ...All that said, particularly in the greasy, slippery conditions, I would still much prefer four driven wheels to share the job of delivering the RS’s prodigious power output. ...There are huge reserves of performance on tap and seldom do you have to open the throttle more than half way to produce a seamless surge of power right through all six gears. ...Acceleration 0-62 mph takes just 5.9 seconds, but it is that overtaking range performance that makes the RS so drivable The top speed is quoted at 163 mph. ...The only disappointment about the driving experience was my feeling that I would like to sit lower down in a performance car like this. ...But in my real-time driving on a mixture of country roads and city streets, the trip computer gave me an average of just over 21 mpg.

Volvo takes on the small SUV market

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-10-23T17:28:10+01:00

It takes time to develop a new model, so you have to have a pretty good idea of what will be the expanding markets in the future. Volvo identified future growth in the market for small up-market SUVs and set about producing the XC60 as their contender to capture a slice of this growing market. ...The new features in this department include Volvo’s City Safety system that stops the car if it detects it is about to hit a stationary car in front. Systems that warn you of an impending collision are not new (as you can see from the road tests in DriveBlog.co.uk). ...I found that sitting in the back seat, my knee space was just adequate – but that was with the driver’s seat set pretty near the back of its adjustment. The load floor is big and flat, taking 495 litres with the back seat in place, or 1455 with the rear seat folded. the power tailgate on the test car is nice, especially when it avoids soiling your fingers on a tailgate coated in winter road muck. As you may assume from the XC (cross country) tag, the XC60 is designed to be capable of taking to green stuff and also to keep going through the white stuff of winter. ...However, mindful that some people don’t need four-wheel-drive and that only two driven wheels will be more economical, Volvo have said that they plan a front-wheel-drive 2.4-litre version. ...The set and release switch is on the bottom of the dashboard, which is fine on an automatic where you don’t use the parking brake as much. ...I also found that the logic built into the system that dictates whether the brake will release automatically, or whether you have to release it manually defied the logic built into my brain. ...But (usually when I was at the head of a traffic queue or as traffic lights change to green) it would exasperate me by flashing up messages about needing to release the switch, or press the footbrake, before being permitted to progress. ...Acceleration 0-60 is a very creditable 7.9 seconds, but the 2.4-litre diesel in the D5 doesn’t exactly give the impression that it loves to rev. ...I’m sure I would understand the logic of the parking brake given time, so were I in the market for a small SUV this would be one on my list.

New Bipper Tepee launched

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-10-15T11:41:06+01:00

Well, I suppose it has to be admitted they are new to names. (Until now Peugeots have simply had a number.) ...The Bipper Tepee is what Peugeot calls “a multi-space family vehicle”, basically it is a spacious, practical small family car with some of the versatility of an MPV. It’s not a new concept, there are loads of them around. Recent ones I have driven have have featured include the Citroen C3 Picasso, the Fiat qubic, the Kia Soul, but there are many others. (Indeed, as is the way in these cross-company collaboration days, you may notice more than a passing resemblance to the Fiat and also to the Citroen Nemo Multispace) The Bipper Tepee (I just like saying that) packs five seats and good load space (884 litres) into its 3.96 metres length. With low emissions the 70 bhp 1.4-litre HDi Bipper Tepee costs just £35 to tax and returns a combined fuel consumption of 62.8 mpg. The Bipper Tepee is available in two trim levels S and Outdoor. The S is available with either a 1.4 litre petrol engine or a 1.4 HDi diesel engine. The Outdoor has the same engine options, but the suspension is raised by 15 mm. That, along with larger body sill protection mouldings and side mouldings, gives it some of the off-roader looks. It has greater underbody protection, but it doesn’t have four-wheel-drive.

Eiffel launch event for new Citroen C3

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-10-15T11:32:13+01:00

Citroen is to use the 20th anniversary of the Eiffel Tower and 90 years of Citroen to launch its new Citroen C3. Every night for three months from 22nd October, they will be organising a special 12-minute light show. with the first the new Citroen starring in the first show at 8pm on the first day. Citroen will be streaming live footage on www.toureiffel.citroen.com. The footage will take advantage of the new C3 sensational windscreen (yes I did check whether I should tone that “sensational” down before publishing this, but looking at it... well it is pretty sensational!). The windcreen wraps right over the heads of front seat occupants and Citroen say it is “... perfect for admiring the full height of the Eiffel Tower ...”.

Rolls Royce Ghost to haunt Frankfurt motor show

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-09-06T14:27:43+01:00

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is to unveil its new Ghost, the most powerful car ever to wear the ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’, at the Frankfurt motor show on September 15. ...The classic Rolls Royce design cues include the long elevated “prow” (that yachting analogy again!), a long bonnet, short front overhang and, of course, the unmistakable Rolls-Royce grille. ...Chief Designer, Ian Cameron says that the intention was to make it: “...less reminiscent of the traditional Parthenon style and more like a jet intake,” A contrasting Silver Satin finish (introduced on 200EX) is an option for the bonnet, grille and windscreen surround. ...Inside Ghost, the interior design team’s aim was to come up with a contemporary ambience while staying true to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ traditions of fine materials and peerless comfort. ...To help James (or the owner) when manoeuvring Ghost, there are cameras located around the car on the rear, front, side and top. ...Using infrared heat images, the camera then assesses from the car’s speed and direction the danger they pose, determining what action (if any) needs to be taken, then displaying the appropriate warning to the driver. An aircraft-style head-up display (as fitted to cars like parent company BMW’s M6) projects selected information onto the windscreen, including speed and navigational direction. A lane departure warning system alerts the driver if the car should drift out of its current lane, by sending a slight vibration through the steering wheel if the car crosses lane markings without signalling. ...The same camera used by the Lane Departure Warning system monitors the light from any source at the front of the vehicle and automatically dips or raises the headlights accordingly. ...Four-zone automatic air conditioning can be individually tailored to each passenger’s requirements, with separate controls for front and rear. ...USB and auxiliary inputs allow for the integration of external audio devices and a 12.5 GB hard drive enables storage of music files from USB or CD player sources. The Ghost is powered by a brand new, 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 engine and, unusually for Rolls Royce traditionalists there is a power figure given. ...What this achieves is a feeling of endless, surging power, which is illustrated by the traditional Rolls Royce “power reserve gauge” on the fascia, in place of the the more common rev counter.

A fun roadster for small hatchback price

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-09-05T18:06:32+01:00

If British Leyland executives in the 1970s hadn't forgotten the importance of playing to our strengths, then something like the Daihatsu Copen might have wearing an Austin Healey Sprite badge today. Instead, as we know, they axed all the desirable cars from their range – MG Midget, MGB, Austin Healey Sprite and Triumph Spitfire which had a worldwide following – and started producing such charismatic style icons as, err, the Austin Allegro, Morris Marina and Leyland Princess. ...A small, affordable, fun two-seater sports car with a small reasonably economical engine and the emphasis on fun rather than sophistication, or performance. So, if you are looking for a sophisticated, refined and spacious performance car, I have a simple message for you. ...If, on the other hand, you want an affordable car, but are tired of boring characterless hatchbacks and are willing to suffer just a tad to broaden the grin on your face, this could be the car for you. ...I am notorious for wanting my seat well back, but anyone of longer leg should check they fit before parting with their money. ...Then, if you have a passenger, the narrowness means your elbows will be on good talking terms before you reach your destination. ...It is fine on good roads, but can be pretty horrible on corrugated surfaces where you experience what can best be described as a “lumpy ride”, with noticeable scuttle shake. ...If you are prepared to accept average performance, sometimes unrefined ride quality and a lack of space, what you do get is a stylish and distinctive sports car. With its chrome rollover hoops, little perspex wind deflector and red leather inserts on steering wheel, the Copen looks a little like an Audi Roadster that shrunk in the wash. I also found that it comes with a free smile, which was fixed to my face all the time I drove the Copen (even when it was jiggling a bit on poor surfaces).... apart from one. On this occasion I was in a queue of slow moving traffic on a two-way A-class road grinding along at 40 mph behind a truck that obviously had something rather disgusting under the tarpaulin over the back. With the roof down, for mile after mile I was stuck in this mobile pong parade with my nose being assaulted by the smell of something very dead.

Toyota go hybrid with the Auris

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-09-02T19:12:33+01:00

At the forthcoming Frankfurt Motor Show (September 15 to 27), Toyota will take the wraps off its Auris HSD hybrid concept. Toyota is, of course, one of the pre-eminent promoters of hybrid cars with the Toyota Prius, but this is the first time that Toyota has applied full hybrid technology to a mainstream model. The company adds that it is the first step in deployment of their Hybrid Synergy Drive across the company’s model range. Adding to the Toyota hybrid focus at Frankfurt is the first showing of the new Prius Plug-in Hybrid Concept car. Unlike the normal Prius which generates all its own electricity from a combination of its conventional petrol engine and energy recovery systems, the new Prius concept can be charged from the mains supply. This allows it to operate in pure electric mode for short-range day-to-day transportation. Toyota plans a field trial with 150 of the new Prius Plug-in Concept cars being leased to selected fleet customers.

New Saab 9-5 revealed

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-08-28T09:01:50+01:00

Against all the odds of a difficult market and the bankruptcy in the USA of former parent company GM, Saab has entered its new era of Koenigsegg ownership with the launch of the new Saab 9-5, the flagship of its range. Getting its public debut at the 2009 Frankfurt International Motor Show, the new car has an array of high-tech features including an aircraft-inspired head-up information display (HUD), adaptive headlights (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam), adaptive cruise control,adaptive chassis, keyless entry and starting, dynamic parking assistance and Saab XWD an all-wheel-drive system that Saab claim is “industry-leading”. There are a range of four and six cylinder engines from 1.6 to 2.8 litre, offering a range of three fuel types – petrol, diesel and bioethanol. To give the all important Saab cockpit look, the designers have disguised windshield and side pillars and Saab say the the windscreen and roof are reminiscent of the classic 900 model.

Peugeot RCZ aims to add excitement

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-08-21T10:03:10+01:00

Peugeot has signified that the new RCZ is the start of a new chapter for the French manufacturer as it aims to refocus on driving enjoyment as well as daily transport. I remember those days as a one time owner of two Peugeot 205 GTIs in succession. Perhaps the first thing you notice is that the RCZ has a name that is somewhat revolutionary for Peugeot. Until now all cars in the Peugeot range have simply had a model a number. Built for Peugeot by Magna Steyr in Austria, the RCZ is a compact 2+ 2 Coupé with some quite distinctive styling features. ... This was a talking point on the concept car, but few expected to see them carried forward onto the production model. ...There is even a hint of the beautiful Karman Ghia Volkswagen coupe of the 1960s about its looks. As a 2+2 the RCZ has what Peugeot call “two occasional seats” in the back, who have a little extra headroom thanks to that double-bubble roof. To go on sale in the spring of next year the RCZ will offer a number of engine options including a 1.6 litre THP 200 bhp with a six speed manual gearbox. ...There will also be the 2.0 litre HDi FAP 163 bhp which offers a combined fuel economy figure of 52.3 mpg in the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of 139 g/km. So that every customer can make their car unique, the RCZ lays great store on personalisation, to keep within the vehicle’s exclusive positioning. The range options include: a real carbon roof, roof arches in different colours (black chrome, “satin finish”), a range of 18” and 19’’ alloy wheels in several finishes (matt black, polished black, dark grey, diamanté), black lacquered body parts at the front, carbon door mirror covers, bodywork detailing, etc. Customers will be able to order these items at the time of purchase and they will be available individually or grouped together.

Toyota IQ "a door on wheels"

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-08-25T15:36:59+01:00

With the driver’s seat in my preferred driving position, there is absolutely zero space between the seat back and the rear seat cushion. ...I was a little concerned to see quite how close the rear seat head restraints are to the rear window glass, but, in this respect, I suppose it is no worse than many rearmost seats in MPVs. From that comment about the closeness of the rear seats to the tailgate you will deduce that there is not a huge amount of space for luggage. ... But, the reality is that you would not even get a full supermarket bag in there without dropping one of the rear seat backs. At this point, lest we get too hung up on rear seat and luggage space, let us reflect on the fact that most cars on the road carry only one or two people. ...Instead there is rather an unusual fabric bag fixed to the dashboard to hold the owner’s handbook, with space for a few other oddments. The net result is that, for two people, this is a practical and civilised city runabout that is also quite at home on country roads and dual carriageways. ...The test car was the Toyota IQ3, which has a three-cylinder 1.32-litre engine. ... Official combined economy is 55.4 mpg, but I found I was achieving around the mid 40s on a mix of city and country driving. In its £11,615 IQ3 guise, the Toyota is £1783 cheaper than the 1.33-litre Smart Fortwo. Although it is longer and perhaps not such a pure city car as the Smart Forfour, I can see it appealing, not just on cost grounds, to people who want a more conventional car with a straightforward manual gearbox. For those who want even lower-priced city transport there are two models of IQ with a 960cc two-cylinder engine with prices starting at £9,615.

Jazzing up the small Honda

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-08-18T09:00:37+01:00

The previous Honda Jazz built up a loyal following among those who wanted a practical small family hatchback which came with the promise of reliability and customer satisfaction that is expected from the Honda badge. That combined with good space and low running costs made the Jazz the darling of people trading down from a bigger car. With the new Jazz, launched in the autumn of last year, building the appeal to the trading down brigade was high on the agenda. ...If I owned a Jazz, I would have to sneak out in the dead of night to find the pesky fuse that controls that infernal beep and silence it for ever. ...Without the previous model sitting alongside it is hard to say, but you still need to be mindful that the pillars do create a bit of a blind spot. ...I left the driver’s seat in its fully back position and hopped in, to find myself well pleased by the amount of knee room and head room. ...There is a load sill, but it is reasonably low and, once you have hefted anything over that there’s 399 litres of space in there with the rear seats up. ...It is refined and willing, but not particularly quick as the 0-62 mph time of 11.5 seconds will attest. ... Unusually, the automatic version (which costs £800 more) is fractionally more economical and has slightly lower emissions – however it is slower at 13.5 seconds to 62 mph. ...As well as offering a supermini that will appeal on merit alongside others, the Jazz has a particular appeal for those who are trading down to a smaller car. ...Of much more interest to them are features like reliability and customer service, for proof of which Honda need only point out the JD Power results. They will also want low ownership costs, which means economy and, arguably more important, good residual value when it comes to selling. ...The price of the Honda Jazz 1.4i ES is £12,235 which makes it a keenly priced alternative to cars like the 1.4-litre petrol Ford Fiesta.

New Bentley Mulsanne unveiled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-08-17T14:48:02+01:00

The new Bentley Mulsanne was unveiled yesterday at the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance near Monterey, California. Bentley Motors say the Mulsanne is inspired by the W.O. Bentley’s eight-litre of 1930 and, of course, named after the famous straight on the Le Mans circuit. Appropriately it W.O.’s own eight-litre company car that shared the podium with the new Mulsanne in Pebble Beach. Now owned by the Volkswage Group, Bentley Motors was at pains to stress the British heritage, pointing out that the new car has been conceived, styled and engineered at Bentley’s HQ n Crewe, where it will go into production on a new manufacturing facility next year. “The challenge we set our engineers was to create a new grand Bentley that would stand as the pinnacle of British luxury motoring, offering the world’s most exclusive driving experience,” Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors said at the launch. “They have responded to this challenge with real passion and the result is a luxury grand tourer that sets new standards in terms of comfort, effortless performance and hand-crafted refinement – the very qualities for which Bentley is renowned.” The design team aimed to create a new flagship offering classic sporting styling cues of a traditional Bentley, but expressed in a contemporary way. “From the very first hand sketches in the styling studio, we were inspired by the traditions of the grand touring Bentleys and have sought to evolve this story for a new generation of Bentley enthusiasts,” explained Dirk van Braeckel the design team leader. The Bentley Mulsanne will go on sale from mid 2010. More information about the new Bentley Mulsanne will be released at the forthcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

The nation's best wheels?

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-08-17T14:37:13+01:00

Approached by The Nation’s Best to nominate my best British car of all time (but not the Mini or the E-type which had already been nominated) I plumped for the original Range Rover. This is what I said: “My vote would be for the original Range Rover. It was the car that literally launched a whole new genre of vehicles that were not only practical for every day use, but could also take to the muddy stuff. Think of the number of SUVs that followed in the Range Rover’s wheeltracks. SUVs have been the real growth sector worldwide in recent years and it all started with that original Range Rover in 1970. All the major manufacturers offer this type of vehicle, with recent converts being Renault, Peugeot and Citroen. “In typical fashion, however, the UK motor industry at the time completely failed to play to its strengths. Instead of extending the idea of the Range Rover into smaller more affordable models, it sat back and watched the Japanese manufacturers steal that market. It took no less than 27 years to extend the idea to a small SUV with the launch the Freelander in 1997.” Do you agree? Have your say at The Nation’s Best.

Kia ups their game with new sharper looks

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-08-11T12:48:20+01:00

Kia Motors has issued a series of images showing a sharper, more confident look for future Kia models as they seek to shake of a worthy-but dull-image. The Kia VG: “no current plans to bring this model to the UK market” Most startling are the first images of the new premium saloon due to go on sale in Korea at the end of the year. Currently known by its code name VG, could the new car signal the way ahead for the rather unexciting Magentis. Although Kia says there are no current plans to bring this model to the UK market. ...The new sharper Kia look and corporate grille are also shown on other new models, with photos release of the new Kia Sorento, which is longer and lower than the current model. The new car will go on sale in the UK from October 1, after being unveiled in Europe at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. ...Also at Frankfurt will be the latest version of the Cee’d which also has the new corporate grille. The latest version will incorporate suspension revisions and will chase improved economy and emissions with a new stop-go system. The ECO-dynamics version to be launched for the first time in the UK, will have CO2 emissions reduced to 110 g/km. On average emissions will be cut by five per cent across the cee’d line-up. ...s=147247&v=2385&q=88128&r=16571">

Alfa's new junior hatch

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-08-11T10:46:09+01:00

They were great cars to drive, with more than a touch of Italian style and flair, but they were a little lacking in the durability department. ...Just as there was a geographical element to the Alfasud name (it meant Alfa-South to signify the factory location in the south of Italy), so it is with the Mito. ...Just looking at it you can see that the Mito is aimed at the market currently occupied by the MIni with its cutesy, chic looks. ...I found my own Mini enthusiast, Mrs Driveblog – who has owned two Minis in recent years and still pines for them. ...Where I do agree with Mrs D is that, while we both liked the DNA (dynamic, normal and all-weather) switch, its location is not handy, set ahead of the gearlever low on the centre console. ...The test car was the Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 TB Veloce, which is the top of the range petrol model in terms of performance and equipment. ...I like the way that the Mito is unmistakably an Alfa Romeo, with its classic grille shape and the number plate offset to one side. ...I like the way you can set the seat reasonably low (I much prefer sitting in a car to sitting on it!). The only fly in the ointment is that the steering wheel doesn’t come quite as low as I would like to match and with this straighter-leg driving position, legroom is only just adequate. ...On this model the 1.4-litre engine has a turbocharger which boosts the power output to 150 bhp. That DNA switch gives you extra sportiness at the flick of a switch, re-mapping the throttle settings, adjusting the dampers, the traction control and the boost pressure from the turbo. ...With a small capacity engine you can expect good economy if you switch back to ‘normal’ and go canny on the accelerator. ...In price, power and performance terms that slots this Mito somewhere between the Mini Cooper and the Mini Cooper S, which is probably quite a good place to be.

Schumacher to make sensational return

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-30T16:17:52+01:00

Michael Schumacher is about to return to the Formula 1 circuit to take the place of Filipe Massa injured by flying debris in qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix. The announcement that Schumacher, seven-times world champion, will drive for Ferrari in the European Grand Prix in Valencia on August 23 ended speculation. On Tuesday there were conflicting messages from within the Ferrari-Michael Schumacher camp. Michael Schumacher working on the development of the new Ferrari Californian One announcement said he would come out of retirement to take the vacant Ferrari seat. But almost coinciding with this was a statement from Schumacher’s entourage pouring cold water on the idea. Now 40, Schumacher retired at the end of the 2006 season.

Latest Golf GTI is a real driver's car

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-30T16:54:21+01:00

It doesn’t seem that long ago since I was raving about the then new Volkswagen Golf GTI, but now there’s an even newer one and I’ve just been driving for the past week. ...As with previous evolutions of the Golf, this one is not going to stop you in your tracks. In the week that I drove it, I only saw one head turn in apparent recognition that this was something new. ...The steering wheel – probably the most important point of contact between the driver and the car – feels great with a nice thick rim and little thumb cut-outs. ... With the driver’s seat set almost at the back of its runners, I did find I was having to peer round the door pillar at junctions. ...Longer-legged adults may find the knee space a little limited, however, but that’s probably a result of those big, comfortable and supportive sports seats in the front. Equipment levels are good and, although the test car did not have the optional navigation, it did come with the screen which is used for some of the car’s settings, including the audio. ...It is nice around town to be able to drive the car like an automatic and then, out of town, to benefit from the lightening quick gearchanges that this box is capable of. ...In truth, I found the auto was so good at choosing ratios that I tended to leave gearshifts to the expert most of the time. ...As before you wonder if the car sees the road ahead, so uncanny is its ability to choose the right gear most of the time. ...Using restraint I was getting over 30 mpg, but with the DSG in sports and enjoying both the performance and the crisp engine note this would easily drop into the mid to low 20s. ...The handling, ride and steering all had a fluidity to them, but with enough feedback for the driver to feel really in control.

Toyota Avensis Tourer with big car comforts

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-26T19:10:00+01:00

You could almost swear that the Toyota Avensis Tourer came off the same production line as the Honda Accord Tourer, so similar is their appearance. ...But, whereas the Honda had a more classy interior, to my eyes the Toyota is a not entirely happy marriage of textures and finishes. ...In a touch of up-market theatre, the Toyota Avensis Tourer T-Spirit test car has one of those trick steering wheels that motors itself out of the way to make getting in and out easier. ...Once i knew where it was, I still found the parking brake button awkward to find and awkward to use, tucked away under the dashboard on the left of the steering column. ...I’m not a fan of electric handbrakes on manual gearbox cars at the best of times, but the difficult location of this one made it even less user friendly. ...We have become used to what I call “paranoid unlocking”, where only the driver’s door unlocks when you first press the plipper. Well, on the Toyota both front doors opened, whether you used the keyless entry or the plipper, but the rear doors needed a second press to unlock. ...Then I found that front passenger had to fumble to find the internal locking rocker before they could even open the door to get out. ...Back on a positive note, my test car was the T Spirit 2.2 D-4D and the engine is certainly impressively refined. Diesel noise is so subdued that you can only just detect it when you open a door at tickover. ...Acceleration 0-62 takes just 9.2 seconds, a performance yardstick that, not so many years ago, would have put this into the sports category. ...Toyota is the world’s leading motor manufacturer and that indicates in the most graphic manner that most people are more than satisfied with its products. ...The large carpeted load floor takes 543 litres with the rear seats up, almost three times that with the seats down, one of the best load floors of any estate car in this class.

Vitara loses individuality

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-14T19:37:27+01:00

(More recent examples of cars that are likely to bear company names are, the Mini, the Volkswagen Beetles and of course the Smart For 2.) In its latest incarnation, however, the Suzuki Grand Vitara has, to my eye at least, lost that distinction. ...My test car was the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 SZ5 in its latest 2009 specification, which means modifications to the engine, the dashboard and improvements to refinement thanks to modified door seals and sound insulation. ...Unlike so many others in this class, the Grand Vitara has a low-ratio on the five-speed gearbox and you can also lock the central differential for the real slippy stuff. I took the Vitara across my heather moor test track and, not surprisingly, it passed the test with flying colours dispatching the heather-wading with ease and romping up the slippery grass slope in true 4x4 fashion. So, while it is at home off road, I found the Vitara rather uninspiring on-road companion. The floppy gear lever seemed to find the right one out of the five gears for me, but it just didn’t feel good. ... In saying that, I am recognising that off-roaders (thanks to their taller tyres with flexible sidewalls) are never going to feel as sharp as a low-profile tyres on a sports hatch or saloon. ...The Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 SZ5 is the top-of-the-range model at £18,475. ... Forego some of the nice things on the SZ5 specification (like heated leather seats , upgraded stereo, brighter headlights and a sunroof) and you can get a Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.4 for £14,600. That’s almost £6,700 less than the cheapest Land Rover Freelander 2, or almost £4,500 less than a Toyota RAV4. Bear in mind, also, that neither of these cars offers the real off-road equipment of a low ratio gearbox let alone a lockable central differential. ...Here is an opportunity to buy a powerful 4x4 with real off-road ability for a very competitive price.

Citroen's little Tardis

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-10T17:36:13+01:00

If the people at the BBC are looking for something funky to replace the police box in future episodes of Dr Who, then perhaps they should consider equipping the new doctor with a Citroen C3 Picasso. It’s based on the Citroen C3 (he said, stating the obvious) but with ambitions to be a mini MPV (or, I suppose that would be “mini minivan” to our American cousins). ...Into its 3.86-metre length it packs four (possibly five if very compact) seats and 282 litres of luggage space (1160 litres with the back seat folded down). The Citroen C3 Picasso is just 21 cm longer than the hatch, yet it offers considerably more passenger and 76% more load space at 500 litres with the back seat in place (three times that at 1506 litres, with the seat folded). ...True, you can get a 1.1-litre version of the Citroen C3, whereas the Picasso starts at 1.4-litre. ...Yes, I know this is a little ironic after going on about the space in the C3 Picasso, but I am notorious for needing long legroom. ... To be ideal I would have liked maybe an inch or so more legroom on the driver’s seat. ...Head space in the back is equally generous and knee room is also good if you don’t sit behind a longest-legged driver. ...As you would expect from a vehicle with aspirations to be an MPV, there are some additional storage spaces. ...The view from the driver’s seat is unusual, but good with a big windscreen and small quarterlights ahead of the main door pillars. ...From a safety perspective, the ESP system is standard on the more upmarket models, but costs an additional £350 on the two base models. ...The 1.6 diesel engine on the Citroen C3 Picasso VTR+ HDI is gruff, but more in a gutsy way than the unpleasant drone of some small diesels. ... As the 14.7-second 0-62 mph time indicates, this car is not at its best sling-shotting away from a standstill.

New Jaguar XJ revealed

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-09T21:07:35+01:00

Jay Leno, one of the world's best-known chat show hosts and a renowned car enthusiast, was the host for the launch of the new Jaguar XJ tonight at the Saatchi Gallery in London. ... ...“The new XJ is truly beautiful, exhilarating to drive, and with its bold, enlightened approach to design, it meets the challenges of our fast-changing world. ...Its visual impact stems from the elongated teardrop shape of the car’s side windows, that powerful stance and its wide track,” said Ian Callum, Design Director of Jaguar Cars. ... ...Jaguar say it is not just about style, but also helps to enable that lower coupé-style roof, while giving a light and airy ambience to the interior. ...The XJ's cabin is said to blend elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and sporting style expected of a Jaguar. ...Other range options are XJ Supercharged and the top-of-the-range XJ Supersport which includes luxuries like a leather roof-lining, semi-aniline leather seats and veneers with laser inlays. Jaguar say their aim has been to create an environment which is more akin to a state-of-the-art living space than a simple car cabin. Virtual Instruments in 12.3-inch high-definition complement an innovative, Dual-View technology eight-inch touch-screen that can project DVD movies or television programmes to the passenger, while the driver views vehicle functions or follows satellite navigation. Premium surround sound options include the top-of-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, which is comparable in audio quality to the best in-home entertainment. ...The engine choice starts with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel, and 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 and 5.0-litre supercharged V8 petrol engines producing 470 horsepower. ...Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control and quick-ratio power steering combine, say Jaguar, to deliver a blend of responsive, dynamic handling and refined, supple ride.

Suzuki Alto returns

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-06T13:51:32+01:00

Ever since my student days when I tried to extract maximum performance from my 875cc Hillman Imp with just the merest whiff of petrol. I was driving along a favourite B-road in the Suzuki Alto, when my brain made the connection back over the years. ...The Alto was also the first three-cylinder car I had driver for some time. ...As you would expect the economy is strong and – although there was no way to check my consumption – a combined consumption figure of 64.2 mpg suggest good economy should be well within reach. ...Frustratingly Suzuki engineers have fought to reduce the CO2 output, but have just failed to squeeze it into the free car tax bracket by just three grammes. ...The driving position is tall and you sit on, rather than in the driver’s seat. So, when it came to time to choose some back roads that would avoid the rush hour traffic, I feared this car would not be the most enjoyable to drive on a twisty country road. But, after only quarter of a mile driving along the twisty blackstuff, my mood was good andI was reminiscing in my mind about those student days. The original Suzuki Alto grabbed a niche in the market by being the only small hatchback to be offered with automatic (indeed, if my memory is not playing tricks, you could only get in the UK in automatic form). ...Also, the original Alto was a four-door car and, again, the new one stays true to that heritage. That makes the Alto more accessible than three door hatches and the interior is remarkably spacious for such a small car. ...Suzuki is forecasting between six and seven thousand Alto sales for the year and currently around half of their 2,100 sales for June and July are for Alto. ...The extra money brings you safety equipment like ESP as standard, alloy wheels and split folding rear seats (in place of single piece folding seat backs on the lower models).

Aston-ishing small car concept

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-06T16:25:59+01:00

Aston Martin has surprised the motoring world with the unveiling of a new small car concept. Based on the Toyota IQ the Cygnet would be positioned as a luxury commuter car, offering Aston Martin distinction and luxury for owners of Aston Martin’s ‘mainstream’ models. You keep your DBS, DB9 or Vantage for grand touring on high days and holidays, but for the daily commute you take the more practical, more eco-friendly Cygnet commuter car. The Toyota IQ was chosen because it offered the best potential for Aston Martin’s trademark designalong with a Euro NCAP 5-star safety package. In some quarters it is suggested that this collaboration with Toyota could develop into other areas and Aston Martin say the two companies “share the philosophy of engineering excellence and innovation underlined by a strong passion for cars”. “Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this first bold step to embark on this special project – made possible with the support of an organisation of Toyota’s stature and capability and the intelligent design and perfect city car package of the iQ,” says Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez. Dr Bez added that much work still had to be done but he was confident that this project could become reality in the not too distant future. “This concept – akin to an exclusive tender to a luxury yacht – will allow us to apply Aston Martin design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market,” he conclluded.

Audi A3 – the pocket executive

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-07-04T20:05:47+01:00

Knowing the Audi A3 very well, I could spot a few of the updates – the lights, the move of the indicator repeaters to the door mirrors, for example. But I had to park a new and an old model side by side to spot things like the subtle re-working of the grille and the sculpted line that now runs from the bonnet down either side of the grille. The lightness of touch in this facelift suggests that Audi felt there was little wrong with the A3. ... This a model that seems to have increased its appeal as the years have gone on, especially with models like the Audi S3 adding a certain charisma to the range. ...But, I can confirm that this car carried five adults with not too many complaints from those shoe-horned into the back seat. ...I have to admit that seeing the 1.4 designation on the list made me fear lowly performance. ...The 0-62 time is quoted at 9.4 seconds – a time that would have put the 1.4 TFSI well into hot hatch territory not so many years ago. But this is not a car that you would buy as a hot hatch enthusiast. ...The result is that the A3 1.4 TSFI felt a little soft on the twisty B-roads that make up a large junk of my office commute. ...As a lowly model in the Audi A3 range there appears to be no trip computer, so I cannot give you any actual economy figures from my test, but the official combined figure is 49.6 mpg. It is normal in the Volkswagen Group to find the same platform and engine available from other other group companies, like Volkswagen and Skoda. ...The Audi A3 1.4 TFSI is positioned as a premium model and priced as such, starting at £16,880 and rising to £17,515 for the SE. ...I really liked the Audi A3 1.4 TFSI and if, like me, you don't mind paying a little more for the finer things in life and you want a small family hatchback, the A3 is very possibly the car for you.

Jaguar designer talks about the new XJ

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-06-22T18:30:05+01:00

We have a month to wait for the announcement of the new Jaguar XJ in July, but Jaguar designer Ian Callum has been giving a little insight into the new car and Jaguar has released some ‘teaser’ images. Ian Callum says: “The car is very modern, and it certainly meets up the expectations of people who understand design with a capital D, I have no doubt about that whatsoever. And that’s all you get to see until next month! ...It’s also a very designer led car so that combination, I think, is quite unique. The lines are beautiful, but we reinterpreted them in quite a different way that actually is right and correct for the twenty-first century – and that is what’s important. A Jaguar should be very beautiful, very clear in its intent, but relevant for its time. “With this car I really do feel that I’ve taken almost thirty years of learning and put it into something that is very complete for me; and that’s taken a lot of discipline, a lot of pushing; on my part, on my design teams part, and the engineers. But I think we’ve achieved something very special indeed.”

Record low for road deaths and injuries

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-06-25T18:18:00+01:00

Figures announced by the UK Government show that deaths and injuries on Britain’s roads have reached an all-time record low. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has welcomed progress towards making Britain’s roads the safest in the world. ...There were 2,538 deaths on UK roads in 2008, down from 2,946 in 2007. ...Pedestrian deaths fell below 600 for the first time (to 572), a reduction of more than a third over the last 10 years (in 1998, 906 pedestrians were killed). Pedal cyclist deaths fell from 136 in 2007 to 115 in 2008, but there was an increase in the number of cyclists seriously injured from 2,428 in 2007 to 2,450 in 2008. There were 493 motorcycle user fatalities (down from 588 in 2007), but deaths still remain higher than they were in the mid-1990s. However, RoSPA is very concerned that child deaths did not follow this pattern and rose from 121 in 2007 to 124 in 2008. ...This new record low shows that the fall in road deaths is a trend, not a statistical blip,” said Kevin Clinton, RoSPA head of road safety. “Every reduction in these numbers represents a person who has not been killed or injured and a family which has not suffered the devastation caused by a road accident.” ...“Even though the numbers have fallen significantly over the last 10 years, we need to understand why the latest figures are so bad for child deaths and get back on track to reducing them again. “Each and every one of us should think about the safety of children and how our personal actions, especially when driving, affect the wellbeing of our most vulnerable road users. We must all play our part in making sure that the number of children killed and injured on the roads this year is much lower than the figures revealed today.” ...s=66740&v=1390&q=54658&r=16571">

New Bentley, no that really is all!

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-06-10T19:04:00+01:00

As teases go, Bentley’s “All-new Grand Bentley” is worthy of a marque with mystique. All they are showing at the moment is this dark photo showing some of the sweeping lines of the new “Grand Bentley” and the quote from W O Bentley’s first customer in October 1921: “The reason I bought a Bentley was because of its exceptional performance in all respects on the road. Such features…leave nothing to be desired.” Noel Van Raalte And, yes, that really is all that we know at the moment.

Renault small sporting estate

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-05-28T16:24:02+01:00

So well known is the Renault Clio that its estate car sibling, the Clio Sport Tourer, is a little in shadows. I coaxed it out to give it the chance to prove itself on a five-day test as my everyday transport. It was almost exactly a year ago that Renault started taking orders for the new Clio Sport Tourer. It may be one of the smallest estate cars on the UK market at just 4.2 metres long, but – as we proved on a long weekend tour of the garden centres (where our wallets grew lighter as the car grew heavier) the Clio Sport Tourer can carry quite substantial loads. ...Boot space with the rear seat in place, at 439 litres – is more than 50% greater than the hatchback. With the seats folded down, this extends to 1277 litres – up 23% on the hatchback. ...This is also where you can stow the parcel shelf when the seats are down. ...The fact that Renault put the word “Sport” into the title suggests that this new car is more aimed at customers who want to carry sports gear, than those who frequent garden centres. ...The cost of the additional load-carrying ability is £850, when you compare the Clio Sport Tourer with the five-door Clio hatch. Prices range from £12,095 for the 1.2 16V 75 to £14,495 for the dCi 106. ...The interior is pleasant and quite well laid out, although I was slightly amused at the desperation of the designers to avoid conventional controls, like knobs that you turn. Instead, the Clio Sport Tourer utilises roller ball controls wherever possible, sometimes with less easily controllable results. ...s=64327&v=1457&q=52328&r=16571">

GM Europe continues as US operations bankrupt

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-06-01T21:43:53+01:00

GM Europe has issued a press statement to make it clear that the European operations of the car giant are continuing as normal and are not included in the moves for bankruptcy protection by the US parent. The statement also confirms that GM Europe has secured bridge financing from the German government and conclusion of a ‘memorandum of understanding’ (MOU) to partner with Magna International Inc. ...“This has been a very intense and at times difficult negotiation over the past several days,” said GM Europe President, Carl-Peter Forster. “We’re extremely grateful to the various members of the German Government, led by Chancellor Merkel and Vice Chancellor Steinmeier, the various German ministries as well as the federal state governments of Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate and Thuringia, and the leadership of the U.S. ...“The process for a future partnership in Adam Opel GmbH has moved a critical step forward with the MOU reached with Magna International, whose leadership has shown strong commitment to this project. With the financing, even with the GM actions in the US, we can now confidently say to our employees, customers, suppliers and dealers that it’s business as usual as we go through the process of creating a new, more independent Opel/Vauxhall.” General Motors Europe has secured approval for a €1.5 billion bridge financing agreement with the German government based on the partnership with Magna, which will allow sufficient time to finalize the partnership agreement. With this available financing, the European operations are isolated from any financial impact by GM’s situation in the U.S. Under the agreement, the Opel/Vauxhall group of assets have been pooled under Adam Opel GmbH, with the majority of the shares of Adam Opel GmbH being put into an independent trust (the balance to remain with General Motors), while final negotiations with Magna proceed. UK Government ministers have been lobbying to secure the GM Europe jobs at Vauxhall. ...s=4675&v=286&q=2599&r=16571">

GM ready to offload Hummer

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-06-02T21:29:36+01:00

General Motors, which yesterday filed for bankruptcy protection, says it has reached an understanding with a buyer to sell its Hummer brand. The sale is not expected to take place until the third quarter of this year and is subject to a number of conditions. Hummer, ready to ride off into the sunset with a new owner Following yesterday’s turmoil – when the motor giant became the biggest industrial bankruptcy in the USA just a month after Chrysler’s similar move for bankruptcy protection – GM say the deal is expected to secure more than 3,000 US jobs. GM, one of the world’s largest car manufacturers, was founded in 1908. It manufactures cars and trucks in 34 countries with a worldwide employment total of 235,000 in some 140 countries.

Qashquai grows up

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-05-25T20:04:15+01:00

In my first road test of the Nissan Qashqai I pointed out that – despite its off-roader-meets-MPV looks, it really was just a normal four or five-door hatchback with different packaging. ...s=24506&v=323&q=3315&r=16571"> Apart from the handy additional two seats in the back, the practicality of the interior remains much the same as the previous Qashqai I tested. ... The shape of Qashqai enables quite upright seating and that almost invariably, as with Qashqai, is more practical use of space than a lower slung posture. ...But the official combined figure of 35.8 mpg for the automatic show it is almost 4.5 mpg worse off than the manual. ... So, to a lesser degree, will sacrificing the rear driven wheels, the equivalent front wheel drive model is almost two mpg more economical.

The future is electric

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-05-22T08:55:35+01:00

That’s the message I got from speaking to industry experts at the All Energy exhibition in Aberdeen this week. ...At least in the immediate term the opinion of those I spoke to was that hydrogen and fuel cell technology has important applications, but that for our cars electricity is not only simpler but rapidly reaching practical levels of performance and range. The Tesla has well and truly scotched the myth that electric cars will have all the performance of a Co-op milk float. Cars like the Ev’ie – based on the Citroen C1 – have shown that electric cars can also be safe, practical and relatively affordable (the prices are bound to drop as volumes increase). ...So, with performance and enhanced range in the pipeline, the electric car could satisfy our need for personal transport. ...The criticism has always been that they simply move emissions from the tailpipe to the power stations, the majority of which are still powered by “dirty” fossil fuel. But, that will change, given the pace of green energy technology was nowhere better demonstrated than at All Energy. ...The message from the blue-sky thinkers at All Energy is that onshore wind is the mature technology that can give us an immediate boost to our generation capacity – albeit that it only replaces fossil fuel generation when there is a wind. The buzz at the show surrounded the offshore generations potential, with many eyes on the huge generation potential of the Pentland Firth between Caithness and the Orkney Isles. In theory, it is said, this strip of sea could produce all the energy requirement of the entire United Kingdom, once the technology is mature. ...The North Sea oil and gas industry, is and still remains, a testament to the enterprise, determination and engineering capability centred on Aberdeen, which is now a world centre second only to Houston in Texas. ...Also the determination of Aberdeen City and Shire to follow its domination of the oil and gas industry and ride the renewable wave. ...s=149056&v=2345&q=88811&r=16571">

Chrysler files bankruptcy and links with Fiat

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-04-30T19:02:19+01:00

Troubled US motoring giant Chrysler, which today filed for bankruptcy protection against its creditors, has announced what it calls a “global strategic alliance” with Fiat. Management at Chrysler are clearly desperate to put a positive spin on the story, talking of the alliance creating a “vibrant new company” that will “have access to additional markets”. "This partnership transforms Chrysler into a vibrant new company with a wealth of strategic advantages,” said Bob Nardelli, Chairman and CEO of Chrysler. “It enables us to better serve our customers and dealers with a broader and more competitive line-up of environmentally friendly, fuel-efficient high-quality vehicles. Benefits to the new company include access to exciting products that complement our current portfolio, technology cooperation and stronger global distribution." ...The announcement also reveals that Chrysler have been in discussions with Fiat for more than a year. Earlier today, under the direction of the US Treasury, Chrysler LLC and 24 of its wholly-owned U.S. subsidiaries filed voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 of the U.S. ...It will nowl file a motion under Section 363 of the Bankruptcy Code requesting the swift approval by the Court of the agreement with Fiat and the sale of Chrysler’s principal assets to the new company. Chrysler say the aim is to have a new leaner company established in a matter of 30 to 60 days. “To create this vibrant new company, we are using this structured bankruptcy to rapidly implement tough but necessary changes, including: the agreed upon wage and benefit structure for active and retired employees that is competitive with those of transplant manufacturers; a reduction of debt and interest expense; the disposition of idle assets; a rationalized and more efficient dealer network; and sound agreements with our suppliers,” said Nardelli. Chrysler’s Mexican, Canadian and other international operations are not part of any bankruptcy filing. ...s=2403&v=172&q=1481&r=16571">

Fiesta joins the tax-beaters

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-04-28T18:34:21+01:00

So with lowered suspension and an ultra-economical diesel, you can assume that this car is not going to be a great drive, can’t you? ...Emboldened by my rather pleasant experience with that other road-tax beater, the Volkswagen Polo Bluemotion, I decided to take the Fiesta Econetic on a 200-mile A-road round trip. ...As soon as I turned the starter, I was impressed with how well suppressed is the diesel engine noise is. Sure, there is a little extra vibration through the pedals and gearbox compared with the petrol models, but it is well damped and not as unpleasant as it is some diesels. The air of quiet big-car refinement is only broken by occasional types of road surface which seem to generate noticeable roar from those low-resistance tyres. ...As with a lot of ultra-economical diesels I have driven recently, the Fiesta Econetic feels very tall geared. ... But, whereas some of the other eco-champions have actually let me down by dying at the head of a queue at a busy junction, the Fiesta Econetic did not. The 0-62 mph yardstick is always unkind to cars of this type and, sure enough, the Fiesta Econetic’s 12.3 seconds to 62 mph is unremarkable. ...(Well, when you have 100 miles to drive for a meeting, the difference between 50 mph and 60 mph is significant.) ...I never noticed the lack of ground clearance from the lowered suspension and the ride quality was every bit as good as the Fiesta I drove previously and the handling just as sharp and rewarding. ...On the way there, with reasonably traffic conditions, I achieved an overall of a little over 60 mpg despite pressing on as much as traffic allowed. ...So, if you want to stop paying Alistair Darling’s road tax and too much fuel tax, which of these tax-beaters would you choose? ...But it is £450 that I would try to find because of the Fiesta’s big-car feel and more refined engine.

SMMT welcomes Budget scrappage

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-04-22T14:24:54+01:00

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has welcomed government’s introduction of a scrappage incentive scheme to kick-start demand in the car and van market. The scheme, due to start in May 2009, will see government offer a £1,000 incentive to be matched by participating vehicle manufacturers when scrapping a taxed, insured and MOT’d car or van over ten years old which they have owned for at least one year. But some older cars will definitely not be offered as part of the deal! ...“This is good news for consumers and will get people back into showrooms, kick-starting demand in the market,” said SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt . “The scheme recognises the economic value of the motor industry and we are determined to make it a success. There is clearly a great deal to do and we look forward to discussing the finer detail of the proposal with government in the coming days.” ...At the end of 2008 the number of cars over ten years old was 9,528,582 and the number of light commercial vehicles is 993,731.

Kia goes soulful

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-04-22T09:28:53+01:00

Its funky looks were inspired by Kia’s US design team in California and the newcomer is clearly aimed at the young, or young-at-heart. Kia hope that Soul buyers will be more style-conscious and expect them to look at the colour options and the accessories, before they focus on the bottom line price. ...There is even a hint of Range Rover in the looks, accentuated by the dummy grille and indicator repeater on its flanks, just below the windscrean. ...On some Soul models there are brighter colours, but the Soul 2 test car was largely black and grey. ...Once you have found the fiddly way to open the catch and lift it, the surprise is that this small cavern in the dash is finished in bright red. ...The interior of Soul 2 has a considerable amount of black and grey plastic in this interior, but – that accepted this is quite a pleasant place to be. ...There will be a three tier model line up in the UK starting with Soul Originals, plus Soul 1 and Soul 2. ... Rather unusually, Kia plan to ring the changes with a rolling programme of special models that will be refreshed about once a year. ...The Soul does not appear to have an mpg read out, so I cannot give you my actual mileage over the test period. ...I had feared a rather sloppy ride with degrees of lean that might be expected from a tall, boxy design of this type. ... It won’t get you enthused in the way that a Mini will, but it is a competent and pleasant companion on country roads. ...The Soul range starts at £10,495, with the diesel coming in at a £12,495 – a £1,000 premium over the equivalent petrol Soul 2. With, at best, a 4.4 mpg advantage for the diesel, it would only be highest-mileage users that would be likely to justify the extra.

50 limit moves up agenda

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-04-21T08:48:03+01:00

Laudably our politicians are keen to reduce the number of accidents on our roads. The figures may be at their lowest for 50 years, but any accident or fatality is one too many. However, as seems to happen all too often in politics, the result seems to be driven more by political expedient than by logic. The proposal to drop the speed limit on single carriageway roads is contained in a Department for Transport consultation. ...Thanks to Government statistics we know that exceeding speed limits is a factor in only 5% of accidents. We also know that “failure to look properly” cause SIX times as many accidents as exceeding speed limits. ...Of course you would focus most effort on measures to mitigate the “failure to look properly”. You would do that by looking at ways to improve visibility (day running lights on all cars?) ... • encourage drivers to concentrate more on the speedometer than they do on observation (which, remember, is the cause of most accidents)? I really fear that the 50 mph limit could actually make our roads worse. We all know that there will be many slower drivers who will welcome the justification to drive more slowly and will plant their cars, four-square, in the middle of the road at 45 mph. I fear that the resulting frustration will undoubtedly cause accidents as the red mist descends and people attempt skin-of-the-teeth overtaking manoeuvres. Are those politicians and legislators who support the 50 mph limit banking that these additional accidents will be less than the fraction of 5% that a lower limit might save?

Insignia makes a stronger case

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-04-10T15:19:13+01:00

If you simply count the number of vehicles sold, the Vauxhall Vectra has to go down as a successful model. But as Ford found with the Mondeo, being the darling of the fleet buyers can be a double-edged sword. ...The margins in the mainstream car market may be very tight, but they are wafer-thin in the fleet market. ...Not sure it is quite “breathtaking”... but it is certainly looks really good – a considerable advance on the model it follows. ...One is the soon-to-be-available forward facing camera which can warn the driver if they are veering from the straight-and-narrow. ...There is also a lighting set up that – using a total of nine light functions — adapts the lighting to suit the conditions. ... When a third of car accidents in the UK are caused by drivers not looking properly, anything that improves visibility has to be a big ‘plus’ in my book! ...This is the smallest of the engine sizes in the range, so it is not surprising that I found the acceleration a little flat in the overtaking range. ...It may not be rapid, but the 1.8-litre is the model to go for if you want good economy and lower tax. ... This latter figure was close to my best of 35 mpg on a country road route around tow, but I freely admit I was not driving with economy uppermost in my mind. ... ...To sum up, I found the Insignia a very pleasant, relaxed and refined car to drive. It really does have a quality feel to it and, for that reason alone, it is a huge improvement on the Vectra.

Seat Ibiza offers budget price motoring

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-04-08T18:34:53+01:00

I had just hopped aboard the Seat Ibiza for the first time and was busy adjusting seats, steering wheel and mirrors. Yes, mirrors... that was the point at which the door mirror adjustment pod came off the door in my hand. Having recently driven the new Volkswagen Golf 1.4 SE, I suppose I might have been expecting too much. Maybe I was looking for similar sort of restrained, good taste and feeling of rock solid build quality from this offering also from the Volkswagen Group stable. I suppose the rather lurid metallic green of the test car should have announced to me straight away that Seat is rather different in style from Volkswagen itself. ...But although there are five doors, there is not much room behind a long-legged driver. In my case there would definitely have to be some horse-trading between rear-seat passenger and driver to accommodate any reasonable legroom in the back. Perhaps inevitably you can see and feel that the interior has been produced to meet the keen price tag. ...On each journey the Ibiza seemed to produce unremarkable mpg figures for the first few miles, but then it would gradually creep up and by the time I reached my destination the trip computer would be displaying between 35 and 39 mpg. ...The engine is not the most lively and I found I had to use a reasonably heavy right foot to keep up a good pace. Anyone with a more leisurely lifestyle and a lighter foot, should be able to get over 40 mpg with ease. With that sort of economy – weighed against the extra initial cost and pump price of diesel – this is yet another car that makes you stop and wonder about the sense of buying the oil burning version. Unless you plan to do a huge mileage, cars like this show that it is no longer the obvious choice.

Talk of 50 mph limit avoids the issue

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-03-28T13:46:34+00:00

UK Government ministers are said to be considering a 50 mph for all single-carriageway roads. It would be up to local authorities to raise the speed limit to 60 mph on roads that they deemed to be suitable. This fixation with speed limits is getting out of hand. Government statistics show that – at most – exceeding the speed limit is a factor in only 5% of road accidents. It follows, therefore that 19 out of every 20 accidents is unrelated to speed limits. If our politicians are really interested (as they should be) in improving safety on what are already some of the safest roads in the world, should they not be prioritising their action? What is the cause of most accidents? According to the Government figures, it is nothing more technical than a “failure to look properly”. This is a factor in around one-third of all accidents. Now, that really is a quite shocking statistic. So, would encouraging people to look properly and measures to improve visibility not be a more important priority for any politician who really wants to get serious about road safety? ... • Ironically, the fixation with speed limits and enforcement is encouraging us to spend more time with our eyes focussed on the speedometer, rather than the road. Given that the biggest cause of accidents is “failure to look properly”, that must be a concern.

Volkswagen cautious with new Golf

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-03-24T13:20:22+00:00

Looking back to the 1970s, Volkswagen realised the Golf was absolutely critical to its furutre when the original Beetle was being pensioned off to Mexico. ... In the years since, these two models have diverged somewhat – the Golf growing in size and moving a little upmarket, while the Polo has remained truer to its original size. But there is a hint of Volkswagen’s concern not to rock the boat in the history of the Golf. New models, often as not, have been met with a degree of disappointment from those who like to see a more radical look for new models. ...During my week with the car, no-one exclaimed “is that the new Volkswagen Golf?”, no-one asked for the keys and not a single head turned. ...Again, there is a functional style to the interior, but Volkswagen have responded to some criticism of the previous interior. ...Space is good for a hatchback of this size with good rear seat room and, thanks to good packaging, a very usable luggage area with the usual ability to fold down the rear seat for large loads. ...My test car was the 1.4 SE FSI, so I cannot gauge how well the Volkswagen team have suppressed the noise of the diesel models, but the petrol test car is nicely hushed. Combine that with a chassis set up that seems pretty near perfect for a family hatch and this Golf won me over on the open road. ... Combine this with tight body control and sharp steering and the Golf proved to be an enjoyable companion on my commute, which involves some twisty country roads with crumbling tarmac. You could perhaps wish for a little more feedback from the steering, but what does get telegraphed through to you confirms that this is a very competent chassis. The 1.4-litre FSI engine puts out 122PS giving the car a very respectable 0-62 mph of 9.5 seconds. ... I regularly managed 35 mpg or more, which leaves me wondering why anyone but the highest-mileage driver would pay the premium for a diesel, plus the additional cost at the pumps.

2010 British International Motor Show cancelled

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-03-19T15:48:35+00:00

Following consultation with the UK motor industry, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has taken the decision to cancel the 2010 British International Motor Show. The SMMT blames the economic downturn and the “unprecedented challenges” facing the industry both in the UK and around the world. “The British International Motor Show is the UK’s largest consumer exhibition, hugely popular with the public, and has been attracting increasing numbers of visitors over recent years, making the decision to cancel the 2010 Show an extremely difficult one,” said SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt. Both SMMT and International Motor Industry Events, who organise the show, have said that they want to organise the show when market conditions permit.

Motor Club celebrates centenary

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-03-17T10:49:45+00:00

Aberdeen and District Motor Club is celebrating its centenary this Saturday, with a dinner addressed by former top co-driver and BMC, then Ford competitions boss Stuart Turner The club started in 1909 with its focus on motorcycling, opening its doors to automobilists shortly thereafter. In more recent times the motorcycle members went off to form the Bon Accord Motorcycle Club. Aberdeen club members have won the British Championship in rallying (David Gillanders pictured) and hill climbs with Graeme Wight Junior. The club has run continuously since 1909, with only breaks for the two world wars. In the first, many of the club’s members became dispatch riders. In the 1960s, the club came to national prominence with its motor races at Crimond and Edzell. It was at Crimond that Scotland's two-times World Champion, Jim Clark had his first race. Later the club started the long-running hill climbs at Fintray, near Dyce, and the Granite City Rally – both events reaching British Championship status.

A limo for the price of a hatch

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-03-17T10:10:33+00:00

When Skoda developed their range-topping executive car they delved back into their history – as they had with previous models – to dust off a name from their illustrious past. ...But, when Tatra car production ceased, attention turned to the Czech republic’s other best-known vehicle manufacturer to come up with a car to fill the role of state limousine. ...If you have rear seat passengers, it is much more comfortable not to open the hatch and blast them with air from outside by opening just the boot. But, if you have bigger loads to carry, you have the full flexibility of a hatchback with large tailgate and folding seats to offer a huge load area. ...The new Superb can look a little ungainly when photographed from some angles, so I am happy to say that – while it won’t win awards for its beauty – I reckon it looks a lot better in the metal. ... My test car was the 2.0 TDI and the general air of refinement was broken just occasionally by the diesel grumble under acceleration. The test car reaches 62 mph in a quoted 10.2 seconds, but there is also a more powerful 170 bhp two-litre diesel available in two and (for the first time on the Superb) four-wheel-drive. For ultimate performance, you can get a four-wheel-drive 3.6-litre Superb, complete with Volkswagen’s excellent DSG gearbox. This flagship model has pretty brisk performance with 0-62 mph in just 6.6 seconds, but at the cost of higher CO2 emission, higher fuel consumption and a £26,640 purchase price. My two-litre diesel test car gave a very respectable 35 and 40 mpg in a week of commuting and the occasional country road drive. ...At that price you are getting limousine standards of space, quite a bit of luxury and high specification for the price of a reasonably up-market family hatchback or saloon. For someone who needs a car to carry four or five adults in exceptional comfort, such as company car drivers or taxi operators, the Superb could prove just perfect.

Ford Iosis Max concept points way for Focus

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-03-05T16:28:35+00:00

Ford is to unveil its new Iosis Max concept car at the Geneva Motor Show, confirming that it expresses the design direction for its next generation of global C-cars. The iosis MAX is described as “a dynamic Multi Activity Vehicle (MAV)” and features a number of novel features, such as new door opening designs, lightweight materials, aerodynamic advances, and the new “clean and lean” EcoBoost petrol engine technology coming in 2010. The design team sought to create a strong impression of lightness and efficiency, reinforced by the extensive use of glass in the vehicle. The steeply raked front screen flows back in one piece to the tailgate, revealing a skeletal roof structure underneath. The front of the iosis MAX is dominated by the bold trapezoidal lower grille, which is now a key part of the Ford brand identity. For the first time, however, the grille features a distinctive new treatment with three horizontal chrome-rimmed bars, to give it a more imposing look. ...They act as spoilers, channelling airflow as close as possible to the tailgate glass for optimum aerodynamic efficiency. The pillars work in combination with a dramatic rear spoiler which is centrally-mounted at the rear of the roof structure, with its wings cantilevered above the tailgate glass. Imaginative details catch the eye all around the vehicle, including the striking new graphics for the front and rear lamps, stylish LED lighting strips in the rocker panels, and stunning 19-inch alloy wheels with a lightweight two-piece construction. Inside the concept uses advanced materials to create an interior environment which is light, spacious and expressive. The interior has a spine-like bridge which runs the full length of the interior from the bulkhead through to the rear load area. ... The seats are cantilevered from the bridge, allowing for an uninterrupted floor space and giving occupants the sensation that they are ‘floating on air’. The 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine is combined with a new Ford auto stop/start system, intelligent alternator and six-speed Ford PowerShift double-clutch automated manual gearbox with ratios tailored to deliver maximum fuel efficiency.

Jaguar enters the new world

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-03-05T13:07:00+00:00

The new car is so radically new that it is reminiscent of the revolution caused in the late 1960s when Rover turned its back on its old staid designs and shocked the motoring world with the then ultra-modern Rover 2000. Where the Jaguar S-type was retro-styled to look like a contemporary of the Rover 2000, the XF is as modern as they come. A completely new design direction, Ian Callum, Jaguar’s design chief, said that his team were aiming to create what a modern Jaguar would have looked like had it evolved through the intervening years. ...I’m just a little under six foot and, with long legs, I usually have the driver’s seat set just about as far back as it goes. ...As with the exterior, Jaguar’s design teams have created an interior ambience that is appropriate to the Jaguar brand but, at the same time, like a breath of fresh air. ...Indeed, I remember the surprise at the X-type launch when Jaguar announced that their new baby had the largest boot of any car in their range at the time. The XF continues the larger boot trend, offering us ample space – not only for the weekend luggage for two of us, plus dog – but also for the trolley loads of booty from a trip to Ikea plus a garden centre! ...Powered by the 2.7-litre diesel that was co-developed with Peugeot for use in Jaguar and Land Rover, this unit fits perfectly with Jaguar’s reputation for refinement. ...However, a comparison with cars in this class being offered by competitors like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz shows that the 2.7-litre had been slipping behind in performance terms. As a result Jaguar has responded with a revised three-litre Diesel and Diesel S in place of the 2.7-litre. ...With the Diesel S acceleration 0-60 acceleration is improved to a very competitive 5.9 seconds, more than two seconds quicker than the base 2.7-litre. ...As some indication, on the 2.7-litre, I achieved an overall figure of 34.5 mpg for a mixture of commuting and a longer dual-carriageway weekend trip. ...With the Jaguar XF, the design team in Coventry knew that they had to produce a car that would be up there with the best that the German manufacturers could produce.

Saab takes road to independence

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-02-26T13:33:27+00:00

After 20 years of foreign ownership by General Motors, the future of Saab Automobile is once again in Swedish hands. On Friday, the Vänersborg District Court approved the request for a reorganisation and restructuring which Saab’s representative submitted earlier in the morning. “Today is the beginning of a new chapter in Saab’s history”, says Jan Åke Jonsson, Managing Director of Saab Automobile. “We are now recreating Saab Automobile as an independent unit. The road ahead will not be easy. Many have already suffered considerably as a result of the crisis in the automobile industry and sacrifices will be a part of our future, but after a period of tough decisions we will have laid the foundations for a new beginning. ... “Saab has a trademark which is well established both in Sweden and internationally. We have a documented efficient production and we have a strong range of models in development. That is why we have chosen this road. The future will be tough, but the commitment which exists to support the Swedish automobile industry and Saab will help us in the arduous tasks which lie ahead of us.” • Due to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the Saab 9-3X – with its four wheel drive system – is being promoted as the ideal alternative to large crossovers or SUVs and is set to be the star of Saab’s display.

BMW unveils new 5 series concept

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-02-20T09:31:51+00:00

This is the new BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo which is to be shown at the Geneva Motor Show. The smart money says that this is more than a concept and that BMW is committed to producing this model. Although has coupé looks, it proves that looks can be deceptive. Driver and passengers are said to sit fairly high, giving good space inside. Unusually for BMW, this is a hatchback but it has borrowed the idea of a dual tailgate from the Skoda Superb. You can either open just the lower part of the tailgate, like a saloon boot, or raise the whole tailgate, like a hatchback. The appeal is likely to be for families who want the extra practicality and space and also for older buyers, some of whom may have difficulty getting in and out of lower slung saloons.

Practical, refined and economical BMW

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-02-19T10:57:51+00:00

The first few days coincided with the tail end of the recent snowy period and, when I drove the car home I just knew it was unlikely to make its way up the uncleared road to the house. ...It took me 45 minutes removing minute amounts of snow before the BMW decided to gain enough traction to park it at the bottom of the driveway. It was not a good start to our relationship and, as you can imagine, after that length of time digging and being mystified as to what was making the BMW steadfastly refuse to move, the air was quite blue – the same colour as my fingers! ...Audi has grabbed some of the BMW market, just because they offer quattro four-wheel-drive models of most of their range. In some, more snow-prone parts of the country sales of quattro versions come close to 50% of total sales – something that BMW would do well to note. ...There really are few places in the motoring world that I would rather be for everyday driving, other than in a BMW.... just as long as there is no threat of snow. The BMW 318d is aimed squarely at the growing market for cars with good mileage per gallon and low carbon dioxide emissions. ...Now, you will have seen that I have had a ‘go’ at some recent economy specials, where the cars appear overgeared and pithless. ...The reality during my time with the car was around 38 to 40 mpg (according to the trip computer) on mixed country and town driving, with a high of 42 mpg on a longer run. ...Carbon dioxide emissions increase by 11 g/km for the automatic, but are still quite reasonable at 144 g/km. ...Noise levels are very low and, with the effortless driveability, you soon forget that there is a diesel power unit under this bonnet. ...The driving position feels right, the controls are well laid out and, of course, you have that lovely rear-wheel-drive balance to the chassis. ...To me it seems like a solution to a problem that doesn’t exist, with the added aggravation that you cannot tell from the stalk’s position what speed the wipers are set to, or whether the indicators are really off!

Citroen DS returns

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-02-17T14:25:03+00:00

After more than 30 years the famous Citroen DS name is back with the Citroen DS Inside concept, which will be making its public debut at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. The Citroen DS Inside is a concept car, but Citroen confirm that the concept car is based on the smaller of the forthcoming DS model range – the DS3. The DS3 range will be launched next year 2010, followed successively by the DS4 and DS5. The models will be positioned as premium models in, respectively, the small, medium and large car segments. Citroen has also confirmed that they are planning to launch new models at the rate of one every six months for at least the next three years. The DS range will be a separate range which Citroen say will be pitched as an “affordable premium model range” and the DS badge is being used to mean “Different Spirit”. Hmmm. Still, it looks good and sounds interesting. It is also good to hear such positive thinking when there is talk of some big car giants filing for bankruptcy. This was a theme picked up by Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director of Citroen UK: “At a time when some are postponing or cancelling future models, it is very exciting for us and our potential customers to see that Citroen are looking forward positively to when the current, undeniably tough, times are over. Our display at Geneva showcases both what is to come, including the exciting Citroen C3 Picasso, as well as our current range which continues to offer buyers excellent value, environmentally sensitive and stylish options for today.”

Audi's Q5 widens its off-road appeal

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-02-05T09:01:48+00:00

Anyone familiar with the Audi Q7 will be in no doubt about the manufacturer of the new Audi Q5. ...As I discovered back in December 2006, the main talking point with the Q7 is its size, which is perhaps visually exaggerated by the towering front grille. The size may not look out of place on pre-credit crunch US freeways, but in Europe there is little doubt that the large proportions of the Q7 have put off some buyers. ...It is attractive, exudes quality and is also functional, with switches and dials just where you would expect them to be. ...Where many off-roaders teeter a bit on their tall suspension, the Q5 just sits on the road with reassuring poise and precision. ...Like the Q7, the downside is that the suspension is definitely biased for on-road use and is a bit firm for rougher off-road surfaces. ...If you want a vehicle with ultimate off-road ability you may be as well to look elsewhere to the likes of Land Rover. ...That’s really not an accusation that can justifiable be aimed at my road test car, the Audi Q5 2.0 TDI quattro SE. Although I never made the official combined fuel consumption figure of 42.1 mpg, I reckon my average commuting figure of just over 30 mpg is pretty good. ...The great news is that the Q5’s engine is so well muffled and so responsive that you will soon forget it is a diesel. ...Once it has all the goodies added (including the extremely reasonable £45 hill hold assist that makes the electronic parking brake much more bearable), the road test car’s price ends up being almost £8,000 higher at £36,195. The bottom line, then, is that the Q5 impressed with its combination of good road manners, practicality and reasonable economy. I never once even thought about selecting any other set of keys during the road test period and that is always the acid test.

Audi's big off-roader

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2006-12-29T08:33:39+00:00

So, if Audi’s intention was to make an impression with their first ever off-roader, they certainly succeeded with the new Audi Q7. ...At more than five metres, it is longer than most of its obvious competitors (114mm longer than a Range Rover). ...Whereas the products of Land Rover are clearly aimed to cater for those who really will get the tyres muddy, the Q7’s lower height perhaps gives the clue that it has been designed with more focus on its road performance. ...However, it was obvious that the tyres were chosen for their grip on the black stuff, rather than the green stuff. ...But the Q7 proved surprisingly easy, even in the tight confines of some of Aberdeen’s older multi-storey car parks. It needed a little more time to manoeuvre, but with the optional parking system and a rear-view camera that helps guide you into a space, it all proved relatively painless. ...In the States , where it will be in the company of hordes of giant off-roaders and trucks, size will not be an issue. The fact that it has seven seats will simply increase its appeal we can expect the freeways will soon be populated with Audi’s latest offering. On this side of the Atlantic, however, off-roaders have not been having such a good press thanks to the attention of anti-4x4 eco warriors. ... The three-litre diesel engine returned 24 mpg on dual-carriageway trips – not at all bad for a vehicle of this type. ...Whether on dual carriageways or twisty country roads the Q7 is a pleasant place to be with its air suspension soaking up the bumps. There is a little road noise from those big tyres, but it does little to dent the feeling of refinement. ...As you would expect for a vehicle of generous dimensions the Q7 provides comfortable accommodation for five with rather more restricted space for the two rearmost seats, which fold out of the boot floor.

New Ford Focus RS

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-02-04T19:07:39+00:00

Ford has unwrapped its latest offering in the 40-year story of Ford RS, the much-awaited new Ford Focus RS. It is the first RS for six years. The new Focus RS is the only front-wheel-drive, high-performance car available today with a power output of more than 300PS available today. “Front-wheel-drive was our preference all along,” says Team RS Chief Engineer, Dirk Densing. “All-wheel-drive systems add cost, weight, inertia and consequently, fuel consumption. Compensating for the significant weight of an all-wheel-drive system requires dynamic compromises we preferred not to make.” Power for the Focus RS comes from a turbocharged Duratec RS 2.5-litre engine which delivers its peak power of 305PS (300 bhp) at 6,500 rpm and peak torque of 440Nm between 2,300 and 4,500 rpm. With the turbo spinning, power arrives quickly. The 305PS peak is reached at 6,500 rpm and holds until the 7,050 rpm redline, to allow full use of the top of the power band. After three seconds at this redline, the engine management system recognises no gear shift and then limits revs to the car’s maximum continuous running rpm of 6,500.

Renault finally joins 4x4 brigade

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-01-25T11:30:02+00:00

Two ergonomic flaws are the cruise control switch which is tucked away behind and to the left of the gearlever (more acceptable for left-hand than right-hand-drive) and the controller for the navigation system, which is difficult to get at and complex to use. I liked the removable bin between the front seats and, rear seat passengers also have comforts like picnic trays and even window blinds to protect them from the sun (or pretend that they are famous). ...Round the back the tailgate has a touch of the Range Rover about it, inasmuch as the bottom part of the tailgate drops down providing a platform to change boots or sit for an impromptu picnic. However, as with all cars that use this type of split tailgate, it does mean you have to stretch over the lower hatch to reach into the load area. ...However, it does this because the suspension is quite soft and – while this is good on poor surfaces or for off-roading – it is not so goon on-road. Here, you might want a little more tautness and control where it floats a little over dips and crests and on surface imperfections. ...This will presumably appeal to those who want the off-roader looks and driving position, but without the extra cost of the 4x4 system. ...It, too, has the option to work solely in two-wheel-drive, courtesy of a selector switch behind the gear lever. Alternatively you can put it in automatic mode, letting the car choose when it needs all-wheel-drive, or a ‘locked four-wheel-drive’ mode which locks the central differential for off-road use. Beside the four-wheel-drive button is the hill descent control, which takes the terror out of descending slippery slopes when the footbrake is out of bounds. The two-litre Nissan diesel is refined and quiet, with no sign of harshness and very reasonable noise levels – at lest until you start to rev the engine, when it does become a little bit more vocal. ... I was not so much in love with the gearbox, however, finding it sometimes obstructive and difficult – spoiling an otherwise pleasant B-road ability. The Renault Koleos range starts at £17, 618 for the base two-wheel-drive version, with the first of the 4x4 versions coming at close to £1,000 more on £18,596.

Jaguar boosts performance XFR

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-01-23T18:37:44+00:00

Jaguar unveiled its new XFR at the Detroit Auto Show 2009, the performance version of the much acclaimed Jaguar XF. The XFR is powered by a new supercharged 510 V8. It accelerates from 0-60mph in just 4.7 seconds. The new version has some unique exterior and interior design features, notably revised bumpers and lower front air intakes, sill extensions, bonnet louvres and grilles, four tailpipes, a boot-lid spoiler, unique seats and 20-inch alloy wheels. The XFR is priced at £59,900 and will go on sale in late March.

Volkswagen does an Elise

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-01-22T17:47:55+00:00

One of the stars of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit is an all-new mid-engined, rear-wheel drive roadster concept from Volkswagen. Named Concept BlueSport, to define its environmental and sporting aspirations, the two-seat roadster, combines an efficient, mid-mounted common rail diesel engine with a lightweight chassis structure to put the emphasis on simplicity and handling dynamics. The 2.0-litre TDI engine which produces 180 PS and 258 lbs ft of torque from 1,750 rpm. Power is transferred to the rear wheels through a six-speed dual clutch DSG gearbox and sees the Concept BlueSport accelerate from standstill to 62 mph in 6.6 seconds and go on to a top speed of 140 mph. Despite its sporting focus the adoption of lightweight materials, coupled with a 45:55 weight distribution and multi-link rear suspension allows Concept BlueSport to strike a balance between agility and economy – the Concept emits just 113 g/km of CO2, while returning 65 mpg on the combined cycle. To improve fuel economy and emissions further an ‘Eco’ mode function can be engaged to activate an automatic Stop-Start system and braking energy regeneration. Styled by a team led by Director of Design for Volkswagen, Klaus Bischoff and Director of the Design Centre in Potsdam, Thomas Ingenlath, Concept BlueSport combines an elegant profile with a purposeful stance, clean surfaces and innovative design details. The Concept BlueSport is a design study with no immediate plans for production. But if there was enough demand, could they resist?

Mercedes A-Class restores faith

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-01-22T15:40:15+00:00

In the aftermath of my recent test of the Mercedes-Benz B180, I was a bit concerned about getting behind the wheel of the A160. ...The reason is that you step straight into the A-Class, because the driving position is quite high. Yet, when you sit down, your legs are more stretched out than you expect and the floor is surprisingly high. ...That slight surprise apart, it is an extremely easy car to get in and out of. No doubt that is why the Mercedes-Benz A-class is much loved of courtesy-car operators and, indeed, those who are less able to cope with tucking themselves into low-slung vehicles. ...The driving environment is good, although I do think Mercedes’ insistence on one steering column stalk to control indicators, light, wipers and washers is tradition take a tad too far. However, it is nice to find a Mercedes-Benz with a conventional handbrake, rather than the American-style foot pedal. ...When you fold the rear seats it does not create a fully flat floor and there is an annoying lip behind the rear seat which prevents sliding of loads in and out. ...Similarly CO2 emissions are remarkably low, with a figure of 116 g/km putting the A160 into the lowest band of tax. ...Unlike the over-geared and hesitant B180, it is not unpleasant to drive, but the 0-62 mph time of 15 seconds tells its own story. ...But, as my wife will vouch, I was not making up excuses to bypass the Mercedes’ keys and head for my own car. I actually did enjoy my time with the A160, which made a very pleasant contrast to B180. The Mercedes-Benz A160 BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde SE, to give the car its full name, is priced at £16,690.

Suzuki makes a splash in small hatch market

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-01-22T15:17:12+00:00

I was certainly hopeful that it would prove surprisingly pleasant for a small 1.2-litre supermini and I was not disappointed. In the same way as the Vauxhall Agila, to which the Splash is very closely related, grew on me last summer for its ability to cover the ground and carry four passengers in reasonable comfort, so it was with the Splash. ...You realise that, when you go round the back and find that a standard size recycling box won’t fit, withoout lowering one of the back seats. ...The convenience was aided by the four good-sized passenger doors which made it much easier to get in and out, than with the traditional three-door small hatch. As of this month (January 2009) you can get three different engine sizes for the Suzuki Splash. ... My test car was the 1.2 and there is also a 1.3-litre diesel.

New Fiesta has all-round ability

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2009-01-06T16:24:24+00:00

It wasn’t all show either, the new Fiesta is remarkably faithful to the look of the concept car and, as a result, it is quite a looker. ...The result ooks bigger than the reality, particularly when there aren’t other cars around to give you a sense of scale. ...This car feels anything but bulky or cumbersome, it just feels like it has the space, the comfort and refinement of a car from a class above. The new Fiesta is a close relative of the Mazda 2 which I tested recently for this blog (and which also impressed). But, to my eyes, the Fiesta has the edge on looks (although the Mazda 2 will be a less common sight on our roads). ...The new Fiesta takes that a stage further with dynamics that make this a very pleasant car to drive, whether it be nipping round town or travelling on twisty, cross-country roads. ...On motorway use there is notable road noise in the interior, but the Fiesta copes admirably with most road surfaces, only occasionally losing its composure. ... It is also the one area where more weight might help a car to sit on the road more heavily. ...If I was being carping I might say that the silver plastic highlights around the dials and the centre of the dashboard, do look a little like the finish on some oriental transistor radio. But, equally, it does give a lift to the interior of the Fiesta, compared to some other small hatches with their unrelenting budget-price black plastic. My test car was the Ford Fiesta 1.4 Titanium five-door, so it was an upmarket model from the Fiesta range. ...The European Mondeo was indeed similar to the one sold in the USA, except that it bore a different make and model name! ...

Recession, what recession, the gold-plated car

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2008-10-25T12:55:49+01:00

Visitors to MPH, the Prestige and Performance Motor Show that opens in London’s Earls Court next week, will have a chance to drool over the ultimate car for the recession – a gold and platinum-plated Aston Martin DB7! Luxury customisation company Alchemist has covered the Aston Martin with 24-carat gold and platinum leaf. Just to ensure it is really classy, the Aston also comes with seven diamonds embedded in the bodywork.

Swindon - the centre of enlightenment

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2008-10-24T09:21:24+01:00

Swindon, in England, may not seem like the place for the dawn of a new enlightenment. But, that is exactly what it is. The council in the Wiltshire town have recognised that fixed speed cameras are having no effect on road safety (noting that actually accidents have increased as the forest of speed cameras have grown) and have voted to chop the lot of them. Instead, £320,000 (the price of just six to seven cameras!) will be spent on educating drivers, installing betters street lighting and lowering speed limits in danger areas. Other councils please note!

Plug-in racing car for British Championship

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2008-10-22T19:13:27+01:00

Next year, electric vehicles will take a further step in shaking off their “milk float” image with the entry of an electric racing car in one of Britain’s fastest motor sport series. The Bee Four ERV (electric racing vehicle) is to be driven in the British Hill Climb Championship by twice British champion Graeme Wight from Aberdeen. The championship is contested at venues throughout the UK, where drivers compete against the clock. Speeds of over 100 mph are common and the events are very much a test of consistent performance with winning margins down to hundredths of a second. Graeme Wight Jnr competing at the Fintray Hill Climb track near Aberdeen The Bee Four is being developed in conjunction with Martin Ogilvie, the former Lotus Formula 1 designer. The objective is to win the British Speed Hill Climb Championship in 2009. The ERV – code-named the "Watt 4" – is an all-electric 4WD vehicle capable of producing 700hp or 520kW. Partners in the project include Oxford University and MIRA Ltd (the Motor Industry Research Association). Driver Graeme Wight, in addition to two titles, has held outright track records at Doune, Loton Park, Prescott and Shelsley Walsh. The Bee Four is part of a business plan by Bee Automobiles to produce a range of electric production cars. The business will be further funded by private equity.

The Scirocco is back

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2008-10-12T19:20:24+01:00

Since the concept car the looks have had a subtle modification with a new, less dramatic, front treatment that is said to signal the new corporate look for Volkswagen. On sale from last month, the new Scirocco aims to repeat the success of its 1970s and 1980s predecessors by taking proven mechanicals and injecting some coupe style. ...Just as the exterior has been toned down a little since the Iroc concept, so the interior is quite restrained and offers typical no-nonsense Volkswagen design clarity of purpose. ...It goes exactly where you point it and, apart from the occasional scrabble from the front wheels if you try to accelerate too aggressively out of a corner, it just clings on to the tarmac. ...I could almost feel my grin getting wider as I explored some of the more interesting roads on my daily commute and – like all good driver’s cars – the Scirocco rewards the driver even when using only a fraction of its potential. ...You do have the option to choose manual control of the system, with a button that you can select ‘normal’, ‘comfort’ and ‘sports’ settings. ...But, once over the novelty, I found that the automatic system really does do the job just fine and I learned to leave the ‘adaptive chassis control’ to do its stuff automatically. ...Certainly, you notice ripples in the tarmac if you choose the sports setting, but it is never jarring and in the ‘normal’ or ‘comfort’ settings it is refined. ...Although it is slightly longer and wider than the Golf, the Scirocco is lighter and this is reflected in economy, CO2 output and acceleration. ...My journies never quite matched that, but – considering that I was enjoying the performance – I reckon my average of around 30 mpg is pretty good. ...As I said the Scirocco 2.0 TSI costs just £90 more than the Golf GTI, which it is closely related to. ... Thanks to that lower CO2, the road tax saving of £30 would pay the extra cost of the Scirocco over a three-year period (assuming, of course, that vehicle tax differential doesn't change!). ...If you want the greater practicality of a conventional hatchback the Golf has the edge, plus there is the option of the five-door on the GTI if you regularly carry passengers.

More impressive luxury and performance than economy

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2008-10-04T16:00:17+01:00

Even though the engine is a stonking five-litre putting out a massive 389 bhp, I set off expecting to get some surprising economy figures from this huge limousine. After all it has a similar hybrid set up to the RX400h, running as an all-electric car on low throttle, bringing in the petrol engine to add power when necessary and also to charge the batteries. ...All hybrids are necessary heavy beasts – thanks to the additional electric engine and batteries – and the Lexus LS600h L (the L denotes long wheelbase, which is 120 mm longer than the standard car) is one of the heaviest cars in this class with a gross weight of 2,750 kg. ...So, viewed from this perspective it becomes clear that the way to look at the Lexus LS600h L is that it provides outstanding performance, combined with reasonable economy. ...The luxury can be even greater if you want to splash out on one of the very few options on the list (almost everything you could want is standard!). ...I liked the sport setting, as it gave the Lexus a little more tautness for the twisty country roads that make up most of my daily commute. ...You can, if you want to see all the complicated things that are going on, set the dashboard display to show where the power is coming from and where it is going to. It's probably best to do this as a passenger though as it can be quite mesmerising to see the arrows depict power flowing to or from the battery, the engine and regeneration of power from the brakes. It is certainly highly impressive that the petrol engine can switch on and off with not a single jerk or noise being transmitted to the calm interior. The smoothness of everything is no doubt helped by the stepless CVT transmission, which emulates and eight-speed gearbox should you decide to use the manual holds – although I can see little reason for you to do so. When it comes to luxury and technology it would probably be easier to describe what the Lexus LS600h L doesn't have than to try and list what it does have. From a safety perspective, there is the radar system that identifies obstacles in front of the car and another radar at the back that will detect a vehicle approaching too hard and move the head restraint ready for any rear impact. ...If I think of some of the European luxury cars that you could buy with that sort of money, I would be grabbing every possible excuse to get behind the wheel.

Volkswagen Eos the all-weather convertible

driver@driveblog.co.uk — 2008-09-13T20:39:55+01:00

With their folding metal roofs, these cars aim to offer the best of both worlds – the full open air motoring experience, plus the comfort and security of a metal roof. ...But, it very successfully projects a sophisticated image that slots it into the range somewhere between the Golf and the Passat. ...It looks good roof up, or down, and, when you get behind the wheel it manages to still feel rather special, too - particularly with the burgundy leather interior trim on the test car. Raising or lowering the roof takes around 25 seconds, with no more effort than pulling or pushing on a switch on the central armrest. Simple it may be to operate, but the remarkably complex balletic manoeuvres that make it all possible are sure to attract a small crowd of on-lookers. Uniquely the Eos also offers its owners a halfway house to full open-air motoring with its built-in sunroof. ...But, if you want to be able to enjoy open-air motoring you have to restrict yourself to the area below the roof storage guide. Loading or unloading anything more than shopping bags into this space requires you to have the roof in the closed position. ...Acceleration feels quicker than the 9.8 seconds quoted for the Eos 2.0 FSI Sport and it pulls strongly in all six gears. ...Even the rash of speed cushions that are appearing all over our side roads don’t seem to unsettle it unduly. ...Combined with a flat cornering stance and good balance it means the Eos was an enjoyable companion on the twisty country roads. On these cross-country commutes, I average around 23 mpg, but this rose to 27 mpg on a more relaxed country run. ...That’s a bit more than you would pay for some of the other offerings, but the Eos not only feels more special and more rewarding, it is likely to hold more of its value when it comes time to sell.