Jaguar XF 2.2D

11 Jul 2011 16:44

The new XF, equipped with a 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine, promises to be the most efficient Jaguar yet produced.  And to prove it, an example has just completed an epic journey from the factory in which it was created at Castle Bromwich in Birmingham, to Munich – a distance of 816-miles – on a single tank of diesel.

Driven by David Madgwick, an independent tester, accompanied by navigator Alexander Madgwick, the scrupulously standard XF passed through four countries taking in a mix of winding country roads, motorways and dense urban traffic.  The XF, with just over 3,000-miles on the clock at the point of departure, consumed just 64-litres of fuel to average a remarkable 57 mpg.

On-hand to meet the car on its arrival in Munich was Andy Whyman, Chief Programme Engineer for the XF, who commented:  'The entire development team is very proud of what the new XF 2.2 has achieved – this not only proves the efficiency of the new model but underlines that performance and economy can be combined.'

D... read full article >

Infiniti M35h

11 Jul 2011 15:47

A unique market proposition and a new sector benchmark in power and efficiency, the Infiniti M35h unleashes 359bhp from new-generation hybrid technology to take the brand’s Inspired Performance to the highest level yet, while CO2 emissions are just 162g/km. Infiniti’s fastest and cleanest model joins the M37 and M30d to make a three-way choice in Europe unmatched in the class by any other manufacturer to date

At a glance

Infiniti’s first hybrid and first to use new-generation Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid technology Power with efficiency: 359bhp with 40.4mpg on the combined cycle High performance with low emissions: 0-62mph in 5.5secs with 162g/km of CO2 Decoupling V6 for exceptional economy in ‘coasting’ mode for highway driving One electric motor/twin clutch system delivers linear performance and consistent rear-drive handling Up to 62mph possible on electric motor alone <... read full article >

Audi A1

05 Aug 2011 11:42

The Audi A1 has made the leap from ‘Most Exciting Car of the Year’ to What Car? ‘Car of the Year’ in its first 12 months.

Featuring TDI and FSI engines bornand bred on the racetrack and cuttingedge technologies such as Start-Stopand S tronic, this is amongst ourmost efficient cars.

At Audi, doing less is something we’re tryingto do more of. We’re working to use less fuel,release less CO2 and waste less energy. It’s whywe’ve incorporated a number of more efficienttechnologies into the Audi A1.

Inside the engine of the A1 you’ll find the sameadvanced fuel-injection technology that’s driven usto win after win at Le Mans. With TDI and FSI, fuel is injected directly into the engine’s chambersso that combustion is timed right down to themillisecond. As a result, waste is minimised and you get the most from every last drop of fuel.

Jeremy Hicks, director of Audi UK, said: ‘It’s an incredible honour for the A1 to win three What Car? awards in its debut year. ... read full article >

Kia Rio 1.1D

11 Jul 2011 16:53

Driver: Andrew Andersz   Navigator: Alyson Marlow

Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the remarkable international sales success of the previous generation model, the new Kia Rio will be available in 3- and 5-door body styles in Europe, and has been designed to appeal to customers all around the world.

New Rio has its own interpretation of Kia’s signature grille, integrated with the headlamps to give a new twist on the Kia family look.  In profile, the body to glass ratio and its strong wedge form give new Rio a dynamic sporty stance.  The balance of the window graphic, wheelbase and overall proportions generates a ‘premium presence’ which is rare in this segment.  Overall, new Rio combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair. The new model features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm) a... read full article >

Mazda 6 Business Line

11 Jul 2011 16:58

Geared towards business drivers who want a car with lots of kit but low company car tax, the Mazda 6 Business Line specification uses a 2.2-litre diesel engine emitting 138g/km CO2 and producing 136bhp.

The comparatively low emissions coupled with a P11d value of £18,130 mean company car drivers will pay £60.43 a month on the 20% pay scale and £120.87 on the 40% scale.

Specification is nearly identical to a standard Mazda6, with the addition of sat nav, Bluetooth connectivity and 17-inch alloy wheels. Other features include a host of safety systems, dual-zone climate control and cruise control.

Mazda Fleet an... read full article >

Renault Megane RenaultSport

13 Jul 2011 09:11

Mégane Renaultsport is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine which boasts a power output of 250hp and a particularly broad rev range. 340Nm of torque is available from as low down as 3,000rpm to deliver a level of performance that can be enjoyed both on the road and on a track.

Mégane Renaultsport is available with a choice of two chassis:

A standard chassis which delivers the ideal trade-off between sports performance and comfort in everyday use. A Cup chassis which combines with a limited slip differential to deliver outstanding on-track performance. Mégane Renaultsport boasts two specific features aimed at heightening the enjoyment delivered by the vehicle's performance:Renaultsport Dynamic Management: This enables one of three modes for the  ESP  to be selected: 'On' (the default mode), 'Sport' (for less intrusive ESP action) and 'Off' (complete disengagement).read full article >

Peugeot 308 Oxygo

05 Aug 2011 15:21

To visit the Official Peugeot Website, please click HERE

Peugeot 3008 Hybrid 4

05 Aug 2011 15:26

The world’s first diesel hybrid is set to arrive in the UK in October, when the initial examples of the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 reach showrooms.

While the standard car will cost from £26,600 when it appears here in November, Peugeot has announced that the first 35 examples of the 3008 Hybrid4 sold in the UK will be Limited Edition models, at £29,995 apiece.

 The Limited Edition differs from the standard model by having an enhanced specification that includes dark-tinted headlamps, LED daytime running lights, pearlescent white paint and chrome door handles.

Inside there’s two-tone leather trim, contrasting stitching, alloy detailing and a panoramic glass roof, while parking sensors at the front are also standard.

However, the Limited Edition is mechanically identical to the standard 3008 Hybrid, which means it packs  a 163bhp 2-litre diesel engine that’s boosted by a 37bhp electric motor.

With CO2 emissions of just 99g/km and an average fuel consumption of 74.4mpg, t... read full article >

Saab 9-5 2.0T

11 Jul 2011 17:04

Driver: Iain Robertson     Navigator: Robert Marshall

Anyone who has ever owned a Saab will tell you they are solid, safe and sensible — now you can add sexy to the list. The first product to emerge from the Scandinavian car maker following its sale from General Motors to the Dutch performance car manufacturer, Spyker, the low-slung 9-5 saloon heralds a bright future.

The clean, sculpted shape swoops low from a deep grille, flanked with curving headlamps, around fuselage-smooth bodywork and wraparound windows, to a muscular rear end with hints of Aston Martin.

Sleek, sophisticated and guaranteed to stand out from the crowd, the new Saab 9-5 Saloon is as different inside as it is on the outside.

The driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab, but the deep centre console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display.

Deeply recessed main dials include an aircraft instrument-style speed rea... read full article >

Skoda Superb Greenline II

12 Jul 2011 10:45

 

Skoda Auto offers modern engines and new technologies across the entire model range as part of its attempts to minimise the car industry’s impact on the environment. The second-generation GreenLine models incorporate innovative technological solutions such as a start-stop system and braking energy recuperation.

GreenLine versions are also offered on the range-topping Skoda Superb and Superb Estate. Both versions have combined fuel consumption of 64.2 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 114g/km.... read full article >

SMART four-two CDi

12 Jul 2011 10:47

Driver: Mick Linford     Navigator: Jemma Bellingham

With incredibly low fuel consumption of just 85.6 mpg (3.3 / 100km) (combined)[1] (NEDC) and CO2 emissions of just 86g/km[1], the smart fortwo cdi earns the title of the world's most fuel efficient and lowest CO2 emitting combustion drive production car. Using the world's smallest direct-injection diesel engine, and delivering 40 kW/54 bhp and 130 Nm of torque, the fortwo cdi is a combination of agility, economy and environmental compatibility that is unparalleled in its class.

View the Official SMART Website Here for more details.

 

read full article >

Suzuki Swift 1.3 DDiS

12 Jul 2011 10:52

Driver: Peter Cracknell     Navigator: Dave Randle

The Swift is the model with which Suzuki launched its world strategy. Produced at seven plants around the world, it is sold in more than 100 countries and territories. Its dynamic performance and sporty styling have earned it 63 Car of the Year awards in 19 countries and taken it to sales of one million units faster than any other model in the company’s history.

Now, Suzuki has realised even higher levels of Swift performance and styling and combined them with superior fuel economy and environmental performance to create a sports compact that is an ideal match for today’s needs. The result is the all-new Swift compact supermini.

Further-evolved dynamics, more emotionally appealing styling, and stronger environmental credentials make the new Swift an unmistakable embodiment of Suzuki’s “Way of Life!“ brand philosophy.

Suzuki aims for annual sales of about 100,000 units in Europe following the launch this Autumn ... read full article >

Suzuki Splash 1.2 SZ4

12 Jul 2011 10:54

Driver: Dave Moss     Navigator: TBC

Using its knowledge as the small car experts, Suzuki created a small MPV that blends the traditional elements of compactness, comfort, and economy with the aerodynamics, handling, and dynamic design demanded in the European driving environment. As a result, the Splash is a next-generation mini-MPV that meets today's needs in a uniquely effective way.

Splash delivers the desirability of fresh design, an exuberant spirit and a fun to drive nature, blending them with the practicality and spaciousness demanded by the wide-ranging interests and activities of the average couple or family. Indeed, Splash is designed to cross boundaries and offer something for all ages and driving enjoyment for every member of the family.

At just over 3.7 metres long, Splash is compact enough to manoeuvre with ease through narrow streets or to slot into tight parking spots. Yet on the inside its elevated driving pos... read full article >

Toyota Yaris

12 Jul 2011 10:58

The launch of the third generation Yaris opens a new chapter in the model’s UK success story, which is available to order now with first deliveries scheduled for mid-September.

All engines benefit from the application of Toyota Optimal Drive, a range of engineering and design technologies which, combined with weight-saving measures and aerodynamics improvements, help cut fuel consumption and emissions without harming power and torque levels.

UK range and prices

New Yaris will be offered in the UK in four grades – T2, TR, SR and T Spirit – which deliver an emphatic combination of high specification, quality and great value for money. Cars are available to order now, with first deliveries to customers from mid-September.

The heart of the range is the TR. Expected to command two thirds of new Yaris sales, it is available with all engine and transmission combinations, in three and five-door bodystyles. Key features of the TR include15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, ... read full article >

Vauxhall Corsavan (Commercial)

12 Jul 2011 11:06

Driver: Neil McIntee     Navigator: Sirpa McIntee

Vauxhall’s new Corsavan ecoFLEX, the Luton-based manufacturer’s most economical commercial vehicle ever, is top of the small van pack offering class-leading CO2 emissions of just 95g/km.

The Corsavan 1.3 CDTi 16v (95PS) ecoFLEX Start/Stop achieves the sub-100g/km figure through a host of efficiency improvements including a variable geometry turbocharger, lowered chassis, aerodynamic wheel covers and optimised gear ratios with a ‘shift up’ indicator.  These upgrades help the Corsavan ecoFLEX achieve Euro 5 compliancy as well as an impressive 78.3mpg on the combined cycle and 65.6mpg urban driving.

“It’s great news that the Corsavan ecoFLEX is top of its class for CO2 emissions,” said Steve Bryant, Vauxhall’s Commercial Vehicle Brand Manager.  “Griffin-badged vans are well known for their low running costs and Vauxhall’s most economical commercial vehicle ever is further proof of this.R... read full article >

Citroen Nemo Van (Commercial)

12 Jul 2011 11:12

Driver: John Kendall     Navigator: TBC

As the latest move in its ‘Business Class’ programme, Citroën has expanded the newly launched Euro 5 Citroën Nemo range. Available now, the Citroën Nemo HDi 75 EGS Stop & Start 660 LX is an even more economical and lower emissions model.

In addition, the standard specification of the range-topping Nemo HDi 75 manual Stop & Start 660 Enterprise has been enhanced with a new dual-function Connecting Box, which includes Bluetooth® and a USB socket. This new equipment replaces the previous solus Bluetooth® mobile phone connectivity feature on this model.

The Connecting Box is also available as an option on all Nemo LX vans. The Citroën Nemo HDi 75 EGS Stop & Start 660 LX features Citroën’s innovative Electronic Gearbox System - an advanced automated manual gearbox. This combines the fuel efficiency of a manual ‘box with the driver benefit of a two pedal automatic. The EGS gearbox enables the driver to sele... read full article >

Volkswagen Golf R

05 Aug 2011 15:38

Powerful, dynamic and advanced, the phenomenal new Golf R raises the benchmark for sports performance to unprecedented new levels. From the incredible 270 PS to the 25 mm lowered sports suspension, from the aerodynamic body shape to the quality craftsmanship within, everything is geared to deliver more driving excitement than ever before. Uncompromising, unbeatable, unequalled – experience the ultimate adrenaline buzz in the fastest Golf yet.

Not only is the new engine 35kg lighter and 20PS more powerful than the 3.2-litre V6 found in the outgoing Golf R32, it’s also more efficient. Economy rises from a combined 26.4mpg to 33.2mpg while CO2 emissions fall from 257g/km to 199g/km. Despite the gains in efficiency, the Golf R is faster and sharper than ever – the new car can accelerate from rest to 62mph in just 5.7 seconds. Equipped with a six-speed DSG gearbox, this figure falls to 5.5 seconds. The top speed is limited to 155mph.

The 1,984cc, four-cylinder EA113 engine (as opposed to the EA888 fitted to the current Golf GTI) is derived from... read full article >

Ford Focus 1.6 125ps Zetec Petrol

15 Sep 2011 11:43

With its dynamic styling, wealth of intuitive technologies and precision-engineered performance, the new Focus delivers a truly addictive driving experience. Thanks to the car’s advanced Ford ECOnetic Technology, the new Focus offers low CO2 emissions and outstanding fuel efficiency. You’ll also find an array of cutting-edge features that include Active Park Assist, which practically parks the car for you. When you start the new Focus, you start so much more than a car.

The new Focus is available with the 1.6 litre EcoBoost petrol engine, which is compact and light, yet delivers the power, torque and performance of a larger engine. It achieves this by combining direct petrol injection, turbocharging and variable valve timing to extract the maximum amount of power from every drop of fuel. This, in turn, improves fuel efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions.

To view the Official... read full article >

Skoda Octavia Greenline II

15 Sep 2011 11:53

Being Škoda’s biggest-selling model in the UK, the Octavia is a key variant in the new GreenLine II range. Available in both hatchback and estate forms, it offers both fleet and private buyers an effective way of reducing their running costs without compromising on performance or practicality.

The arrival of the first generation Octavia GreenLine in June 2009 signalled a significant development in Škoda’s low CO2 strategy. Available in both hatch and estate versions the Octavia GreenLine II

Toyota Prius T Spirit

15 Sep 2011 14:39

To view the Official Toyota Website, please click HERE

Citroen C4 Exclusive 1.6 Hdi

15 Sep 2011 14:51

To visit the Official Citroen Website, please click HERE read full article >

Volkswagen Golf Blue Motion 1.6 Tdi 105PS

15 Sep 2011 15:01

Ford Transit ECOnetic

15 Sep 2011 16:22

The Ford Transit ECOnetic is based on the front-wheel drive Transit 280 panel van with short wheelbase and 2.2-litre 115PS Duratorq TDCi engine. Target fuel economy is 39.2mpg, while average CO2 emissions are a best in class at 189g/km. Following the launch of ECOnetic models in Ford's Fiesta, Focus and Mondeo passenger car ranges, the company is now committed to continuing this affordable low CO2 approach in the commercial vehicle market. In addition to the new Transit ECOnetic, an ECOnetic version of its compact workmate, the Fiesta Van, will also go on sale later this year. Steve Kimber, commercial vehicles director, Ford of Britain, said: 'We appreciate that our commercial vehicle customers have a clear interest in saving fuel and lowering their cost of ownership. At the same time, environmental friendliness is also growing in importance for them, and with the new Transit ECOnetic they can achieve both.'

To view the Official Ford Website, please CLICK HERE<... read full article >

Alfa Giulietta 1750 Tbi 235 bhp Cloverleaf

10 Oct 2011 11:58

This engine boasts advanced technical solutions including direct fuel injection, dual continuous variable valve timing, a turbocharger and a revolutionary scavenging control system that gets rid of any “turbo lag”. The resulting performance is comparable to – or better than – that of many 3 litre engines while still delivering the moderate fuel consumption typical of a compact four cylinder unit, with the highest power ever achieved by an Alfa Romeo engine.

 

Technical Specifications:

Technical specifications

Cylinders: 4 in line

Displacement: 1742

Power: 235 bhp (172.5 kW) at 5500 rpm

Torque (Normal Mode): 300 Nm (30.5 kgm) at 4500 rpm

Torque (Dynamic Mode) : 340  Nm (34.6 kgm) at 1900 rpm

Top Speed: 150 mph (242 km/h)

Acceleration 0 to 62 mph (s): 6.8

CO2: 17Technical specifications:

Cylinders: 4 in line

Displacement: 1742

Power: 235 bhp... read full article >