Jamiroquai frontman Jay Kay is selling more cars from his collection via Silverstone Auctions. Take your pick from a 1972 Ferrari 365 GTC/4 or a 2015 Porsche 911 Turbo S. We know which one we’d choose.
This 365 GTC/4 was imported to the UK in 2014 and Jay Kay bought it in 2016 at the London Classic Car Show. Prior to his purchase, the car underwent an extensive restoration.
The GTC/4 is relatively unloved among classic Ferraris; its more famous 365 GTB/4 ‘Daytona’ cousin hogs all the limelight. The GTC is, however, a bit of a dark horse, offering a more pleasant all-round drive than a Daytona.
It’s also a bit of a steal by comparison. Jay Kay’s car is expected to fetch between £200,000 and £260,000 at auction.
“This car turned out to be the best driving Ferrari built in the 1970s that I have ever experienced,” said Silverstone Auctions MD, Nick Whale.
“It has refinement, in terms of both ride and noise levels, way beyond any reasonable expectations. Furthermore, it has performance and handling to match. The engine just purrs at tickover and from there it delivers amazing quantities of both torque and power in a smooth and quietly progressive manner.
“In short, it’s a real driver’s car that you could cover serious miles in with no concerns about comfort and reliability. I absolutely love it!”
The Porsche is somewhat less special. It’s a handsomely optioned ‘991’ Turbo S, and remains a devastatingly capable performance car. It’s estimated to fetch between £100,000 and £120,000.
“We are always delighted to work with cars that come from such historical provenance and when Jay Kay offers us a car to sell we always know it has been very well looked after and one that is significant. He, after all, has an enviable and eclectic collection of cars,” said Nick Whale.
Jay Kay’s cars join a varied bill of machinery at the Silverstone Auctions Ferrari and Porsche sale on Saturday 21 September 2019. The roster includes two Daytonas: one owned by Sir Elton John and the other by Le Mans racer Tommy Dickson. A Porsche 964 Speedster once owned by IndyCar champion Dario Franchitti is also up for grabs.
The World Car Awards is the biggest automotive prize on the planet. Every year, dozens of cars from across the globe compete for the top honour of being, literally, that year’s best car in the world.
At the 2020 Frankfurt Motor Show, this year’s contenders have been announced. Settle back as we take you through the runners.
Last year’s winner was the Jaguar I-Pace – which also won World Car Design and World Green Car. Contenders must be available for sale in at least two continents during the year. One of the following autos is now in the running for the 2020 World Car Award prize.
Cadillac CT4
An all-new model to replace the Cadillac ATS, the CT4 is a car with real attitude. A genuine sports sedan, we’re very much looking forward to driving the performance-focused new Caddy.
DS 3 Crossback
Small crossovers are big business and fledgling premium brand DS Automobiles is hoping its DS 3 Crossback can be its big break. There’s even a fully electric version.
DS 7 Crossback
The launch model from the new DS Automobiles brand, the DS 7 is a large SUV with a large price tag, targeting European buyers who want something different to the norm.
Ford Escape and Kuga
The first Ford Kuga was charismatic; the second was also known as the Escape in North America, and was less exciting but more practical. Does this all-new one strike the perfect balance?
Ford Explorer
The long-running Ford Explorer has never been more sophisticated or critically acclaimed than in its latest guise. The fact it oozes on-road presence also helps its appeal.
Hyundai Sonata
There’s no missing the new 2020 Hyundai Sonata. It gets a head-turning new look and a raft of cutting-edge technology. You can even get it with a solar roof!
Hyundai Palisade
Hyundai’s top-line large SUV seats up to eight people and has recently been highly praised for its outstanding levels of safety.
Hyundai Venue
The Hyundai Venue is a compact SUV for important markets such as India. It is spacious and has a distinctive front end, while affordable prices should further bolster appeal.
Kia Seltos
Another affordable compact SUV, the Kia Seltos offers a good spread of modern technology and, in India, is being promoted with a decidedly punchy advertising campaign…
Kia Soul EV
The Kia Soul has always been a standout crossover SUV. Now, the proudly boxy model’s appeal is increased with a long-range electric drivetrain.
Kia Telluride
This is Kia taking on the premium brands. The Telluride is a large luxury SUV that has head-turning looks, a lavish interior and a top-notch drive.
Range Rover Evoque
How do you replace an automotive icon? If you’re Land Rover, carefully, and with laser-like focus. The new Range Rover Evoque is an impeccably engineered follow-up to a true great.
Mazda3
The new Mazda3 is the first sign of the company’s desire to move upmarket and become more of a premium brand. It leaves a very convincing first impression.
Mazda CX-30
Is the Mazda3 hatchback not sufficiently crossover-like for you? But the CX-5 is too much so? Here’s the perfect-solution, the Mazda CX-30. It quickly expects it to become one of its best sellers.
Mercedes-AMG A35 and A45
How hot do you want your Mercedes-AMG A-Class hatchback? The A35 is fast and outlandish; the A45 is truly incendiary, and with a price tag to match.
Mercedes-AMG CLA35 and CLA45
Prefer your compact Mercedes-AMG performance cars to look a bit more elegant? Then the CLA35 and CLA45 are for you. Or perhaps…
Mercedes-Benz CLA
Not fussed about performance? Enjoy the regular range of CLA four-door compact coupes instead.
Mercedes-Benz GLB
And for those who would rather have a small SUV, Mercedes-Benz is taking on the BMW X1 and its ilk with the all-new GLB.
Mini Cooper Electric
The long-awaited Mini Cooper Electric doesn’t look radically different to a normal Mini, but the BMW-owned brand is hoping this is the start of something big.
Vauxhall and Opel Corsa
A crucially important car for European buyers, the long-overdue new Vauxhall and Opel Corsa range looks like it’s been worth the wait. There’s even a fully-electric Corsa-e from launch.
Peugeot 208
Peugeot is launching its own range of petrol, diesel and electric small cars, with the very distinctive-looking new 208 and e-208 range.
Peugeot 2008
Quickly following the 208 is its crossover SUV brother, the 2008. There will be an electric version of this, too.
Renault Captur
Peugeot and Renault are fierce French rivals. So there’s a new 2008? Well, there just so happens to be an all-new Renault rival, too: meet the new Captur.
Renault Clio
Renault’s own supermini is new for the 2020 World Car Awards as well. The Clio doesn’t take a radical styling step forward, but the interior has been radically improved.
Renault Zoe R135
Renault’s longstanding Zoe electric car was one of the first volume EVs on the market. For 2020, it’s been overhauled with a longer range and smarter interior.
Seat Tarraco
The Tarraco is Seat’s all-new range-topper. A large SUV with room for seven, it is winning fans through an able drive, good-value prices and smart, standout luxury looks.
SsangYong Korando
SsangYong will be pleased as punch to have the new Korando on the World Car Awards longlist. It’s a radically improved machine that shows just how fast the brand is evolving.
Skoda Kamiq
The baby Skoda SUV sits below the Kodiaq and Karoq. Early reports suggest it’s an extremely well thought-out machine that is sure to win fans in Europe.
Skoda Scala
Skoda’s value-priced alternative to a Volkswagen Golf is itself a practical and able family car for those on a budget.
Volkswagen Golf
One of the biggest new model launches of 2019 will be the latest Volkswagen Golf, a genuine global icon. It’s surely odds-on to be a front-runner for World Car Awards 2020.
Volkswagen T-Cross
The little Volkswagen T-Cross is the German brand’s smallest and most accessible SUV. For Polo supermini drivers who want to move up in the world, it’s typically well conceived.
World Luxury Car
The World Car Awards jurors also seek to find the best luxury car of the year. Last year, the Audi A7 Sportback was victor and it’s a similarly rich line-up for 2020.
BMW 7 Series
The lead limo in BMW’s luxury car division keeps on getting more able. The driver’s alternative to a Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
BMW X5
The BMW X5 has gone big and bold in its latest generation, making it better able than ever to take on the true elite of its competitors. And if it’s not big enough…
BMW X7
The BMW X7 is a three-row, seven-seat SUV alternative to the lavish BMW 7 Series that is a genuinely unmistakable sight to behold.
BMW Z4
Prefer your luxury motoring with a bit more verve? Try the latest BMW Z4, a rich and rorty little roadster that doesn’t make you suffer for the art of driving.
Cadillac CT5
With styling inspired by famous Cadillacs from the 1940s, the new mid-size CT5 is another demonstration of how this famous luxury American car brand keeps on evolving.
Cadillac XT6
The XT6 is Cadillac’s offer for those seeking roomy three-row SUV motoring with a touch of the storied luxury brand’s class.
Mercedes-Benz EQC
The Mercedes-Benz EQC is an all-electric SUV, the firm’s first electric offer from its new EQ sub-brand. This is a landmark car in Merc’s history, alright.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
The GLE has been overhauled for 2020 with a broad range that includes plug-in hybrids. All offer the tirelessly well-developed luxury that buyers expect of a Mercedes-Benz.
Mercedes-Benz GLS
The S-Class of large SUVs? The latest GLS is a class act that takes all the long-running limo’s luxurious appeal and offers it in a high-rise truck format.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 is a superb sports car, but also a brilliant everyday luxury car for those lucky enough to afford one. The current car is virtually faultless.
Porsche Taycan
Porsche is embracing the all-electric age with the Taycan, its four-door GT EV. First impressions are overwhelmingly positive and we can’t wait to drive it.
Toyota GR Supra
Bringing back a famous name from the past, the latest GR Supra does so with overwhelming success. Toyota seems to have hit the nail on the head with this car.
World Performance Car
Last year, the mighty McLaren 720S won the hotly-fought performance car category. This year, the contenders are a little more accessible, but not short on thrills.
Alpine A110S
The faster, more focused ‘S’ version of Alpine’s exceptional new two-seat coupe is a car every judge is looking forward to driving.
Audi RS6 Avant
Audi has done it again with the RS6: given us a monster wagon with attitude, performance and ability by the bucketload.
Audi RS7 Sportback
If the RS6 Avant doesn’t appeal, try the RS7 Sportback instead. It has the same 600-horsepower V8 turbo engine and uncompromising performance car style.
Audi S8
Prefer a more understated approach to performance motoring? Perhaps Audi’s hot S8 limo is for you?
Audi SQ8
And, of course, Audi also makes a performance SUV. The SQ8 is for buyers who like the idea of a Lamborghini Urus but prefer something a little more subtle (and affordable).
BMW M8
The beautiful BMW 8 Series is topped by a monster: the outrageous 625 horsepower V8 turbo M8. If it’s as good as the BMW M5, it’s going to be exceptional.
BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 roadster has a 340 horsepower straight-six turbo engine, rear-wheel drive and a chassis tuned by Munich’s best. Surely, what’s not to like?
Mercedes-AMG A35 and A45
We spoke about how ferocious these two cars are earlier. The A45 in particular is a car we’re looking forward to trying.
Mercedes-AMG CLA35 and CLA45
Again, there are CLA versions of both. It will be interesting to see how the CLA differs to the high-performance A-Class.
Porsche 718 Spyder and Cayman GT4
Two very special Porsches, both with bespoke body features and the long-awaited return of the six-cylinder engine. And not a turbo in sight.
Porsche 911
The latest iteration of the 911 is a staggeringly accomplished machine. One of the world’s longest-running performance cars, and one of the best for 2020?
Porsche Taycan
Or will the new-era Porsche Taycan edge it over the traditional 911? It will be fascinating to see how the battle between futuristic electric and traditional flat-six pans out.
Toyota GR Supra
Toyota has a performance car hero of its own to launch for the 2020 model year. Will the fun new GR Supra make the cut for the 2020 World Car Awards?
World Urban Car
The funky Suzuki Jimny proved it was made for the city in the 2019 World Car Awards. The 2020 contenders are equally eclectic.
Kia Soul EV
Zero emissions seems to be the name of the game for cities in 2020. Will the box-fresh Kia Soul EV steal a march over the rest this year?
Mini Cooper Electric
We have waited a long time for this all-electric Mini and we’re excited to get behind the wheel. Will it be as perfect for city life as the firm promises it is?
Opel and Vauxhall Corsa
Small cars are called superminis in Europe and the Opel and Vauxhall brands have a new Corsa to launch for the 2020 Awards, including the all-electric Corsa-e.
Peugeot 208
There’s a fully electric Peugeot e-208 too, sitting alongside the regular range of all-new 208 hatchbacks.
Renault Clio
The Renault Clio is an evolution of the previous car, with regular but high-efficiency engines to cut city centre pollution.
Renault Zoe R135
However, it will be interesting to see how the more traditional Clio compares with the 2020 version of Renault’s all-electric Zoe.
Volkswagen T-Cross
Finally, the Volkswagen T-Cross rounds out the launch contenders for the 2020 World Car Awards. Will this small, cute city SUV prove a World Urban Car victor?
The packaging advantages of electric powertrains mean stylists aren’t slaves to the styling tropes of fossil-fuelled cars. There’s no need for a long, tall bonnet, or a cramped cabin filled with transmission tunnel. Bigger wheels can fill the haunches, too, giving a saloon the stance of a supercar.
The EQS seems to combine the very best of current luxury saloons with these new freedoms. Its bonnet is shorter, while the cabin canopy stretches across more of the car’s length.
Mercedes calls this the ‘One Bow’ proportion. and it makes the EQS look very sleek and slippery. The two-tone paint, with a darker upper element, blends well with the glasshouse, too.
The cabin of the Vision EQS is inspired by luxury yachts. Indeed, the dash appears to have borrowed its design from the deck of a Riva speedboat. The plush cream material is actually made from recycled ocean plastics, and is entirely sustainable.
If the dash is the deck of a speedboat, the upward-swooping floating infotainment screen is the diving board. It’s a very slick look, and brings us to the tech elements of the cabin. The Vision EQS features the latest development of the Advanced MBUX media system.
Gone is the horizontal slab with dual screens and inch-wide bezels of the S-Class. This central screen really is all screen, while driving data is integrated into the dashboard in front of the steering wheel.
Speaking of that wheel, it’s probably the part least likely to make its way onto the next S-Class.
Given it’s a concept, the figures supplied should be taken with a pinch of salt. Still, the Vision EQS is apparently capable of a WLTP-certified 435 miles on a full charge. And it can be recharged to 80 percent capacity in ‘considerably less than 20 minutes’, if charging at 350kW.
Approximate power is 450hp, while torque is around 550lb ft. Zero to 62mph should take less than 4.5 seconds, while top speed is over 120mph.
Mercedes wants to have a CO2-neutral new car fleet in 20 years. Even now, the ‘Mercedes Me’ charge facility will direct you to charge points that use sustainable energy.
Overall, the Vision EQS is intended to show that eco-conscious cars can still be entirely in keeping with the luxurious reputation of the three-pointed star.
For now, we’ll be glad if the next S-Class borrows some of that Vision EQS style.
BMW has revealed a startling new concept car at the 2019 Frankfurr Motor Show. The Concept 4 is a less-than-subtle hint about how the next 4 Series will look.
Although only a show car, the Concept 4 is said to be an accurate representation of the finished 2020 4 Series.
Intended to combine futuristic technology with traditional BMW design, there is likely to be one major talking point in Frankfurt…
Expect to be grilled
Although we have seen the giant BMW kidney grille applied to SUVs and saloons, this is the first time it has made an appearance on a coupe.
The gaping mouth of the Concept 4 is unashamedly vast. BMW says the vertical grille is inspired by the classic 328 sports car, or the 3.0 CS coupe from the 1970s.
In creating the grille, BMW has incorporated special horizontal trim details. The grates inside it, and the air intakes, are formed from an array of tiny ‘number 4’ structures.
According to Domagoj Dukec, head of BMW design, the kidney grille has “always been a signature feature of BMW cars. The BMW Concept 4 presents a confident and classy take on this iconic feature. At the same time, the BMW Concept 4 offers a look ahead to the expressive face of the 4 Series range.”
Just as dramatic are the LED headlights which, unusually, feature no cover over the lighting elements. This makes them more prominent, although don’t expect the production version to follow suit.
The shape of the kidney grille also feeds into the heavily sculpted bonnet, flowing into the flanks of the Concept 4.
“Perfect proportions, clear precise design”
Viewed from the side, the Concept 4 demonstrates classic BMW coupe proportions. A long nose extends into a sweeping roofline, ending at a truncated tail.
Adrian van Hooydonk, senior vice president of BMW design, said: “Concept 4 embodies the aesthetic essence of the BMW brand. It combines perfect proportions with a clear and precise design”.
The fancy Forbidden Red paintwork is used to highlight styling features, while the 21-inch alloy wheels feature an intricate internal pattern. Other highlights include the side mirrors, which seem to emerge from the aluminium window surround and feature tiny BMW logos.
The rear looks similar to the recent flagship 8 Series coupe. BMW has used LED taillights to create its L-shape ‘light signature’, with the actual pattern said to resemble a heartbeat.
Intended solely to show off exterior styling, BMW has not released details of interior or engine options for the next 4 Series. However, we can expect to see the same range of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains as the current 3 Series saloon.
BMW will launch the production 4 Series in the middle of 2020.
This is the first-ever all-new version of the original Land Rover, first launched back in 1948. We have waited years for it, and the Frankfurt Motor Show marks its international debut. Land Rover describes it as an icon reinvented for the 21st century. Here are the crucial facts you need to know.
Launched as a 110
There will be an entire family of new Defenders, but it debuts in a five-door 110 guise. The short-wheelbase 90 will follow a little later, with two commercial Defender vans due in 2020.
Instantly recognisable
It looks, well, like a Land Rover Defender. It has short overhangs, an upright stance, a side-hinged tailgate, an externally-mounted spare wheel and even Alpine light windows in the roof.
Satin finish
A key option from launch is Satin Protective Film. This is a ‘sustainable, solvent-free and completely recyclable wrap’ that guards against both off-road and on-road scrapes. It’s a factory-fit option for those choosing Indus Silver, Gondwana Stone and Panega Green paint colours.
Packed with accessories
No Land Rover has ever had such a wide range of accessories as the new Defender. These include a rooftop tent, inflatable waterproof awnings, a remote control electric winch – plus more commonplace add-ons such as tow bars and roof racks.
Diesel is still here
With two commercial versions set to come, the new Defender still has the potential to work for a living. Engine options reflect this, including two four-cylinder diesels, offered in 200hp and 240hp outputs. A four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 300hp, plus a range-topping 3.0-litre inline-six with an impressive 400hp complete the launch range.
Electrified performance
The name might be old, but the drivetrain technology underneath the new Defender is totally modern. On the 3.0-litre petrol engine there is even a mild-hybrid system, which includes an electric eSupercharger. This uses power stored in a lithium-ion battery pack to reduce the level of turbo lag below 2,000 rpm. A full plug-in hybrid will join the range next year.
Defender for the world
Land Rover will sell the new Defender in 128 countries across the world, making it a truly global new car. It is to be built alongside the Discovery at the firm’s Slovakian factory in Nitra.
Defender for a New Age
Land Rover design boss Gerry McGovern says the new Defender is respectful of its past, but not harnessed by it. “This is a Defender for a New Age. Its unique personality is accentuated by its distinctive silhouette and optimum proportions, which make it both highly desirable and seriously capable.”
Structure exposed
Inside, the Defender intentionally has a stripped-back feel, with Land Rover exposing structural elements normally hidden behind trim. The emphasis, it says, is on simplicity and practicality.
Lots of seats
Mounting the gear lever on the dashboard has cleared space for an optional front-centre ‘jump seat’. With three-abreast seating, the Defender offers five, six or 5+2 seating. The 90 will have this jump seat option as well, to ‘accommodate six occupants in a vehicle the length of a compact family hatchback’.
Rubber floor
Like the original Land Rover, you’ll theoretically be able to hose out your new Defender (if you’re brave), thanks to rubberised flooring. It’s just one of many practicality-focused details of the new Land Rover.
95 percent new
The Land Rover Defender is based on an aluminium monocoque architecture called D7x. The ‘x’ stands for extreme. It is 95 percent new compared with the Land Rover Discovery, and is the firm’s stiffest-ever body structure. Remarkably, it is three times stiffer than a traditional body-on-frame design.
Testing, testing
Apparently, more than 62,000 individual tests have been conducted on the new Defender ahead of sign-off. Land Rover is particularly proud of its Extreme Event Test, which repeats immense, sustained impacts ‘above and beyond the normal standard for SUV and passenger cars’.
Wading ability
Land Rover has endless figures explaining how good the Defender is off-road. We particularly like the fact it can wade through 900mm of water (that’s over 35 inches). It can also tell you if it’s safe to drive into such daunting depths thanks to a new Wade setting in the Terrain Response 2 system.
The best 4x4xfar
The new Defender ‘redefines breadth of capability, raising the threshold for both off-road ruggedness and on-road comfort,’ says Land Rover. ‘It can negotiate crowded city streets as effortlessly as climbing mountains, crossing deserts and withstanding freezing temperatures.’
System updates from the cloud
With a vast array of electronic components controlling the new Defender, Land Rover has included the potential for over-the-air software updates. The 14 onboard control modules can be improved without the need to visit a dealership. Land Rover even suggests that a satellite phone connection could be used in remote areas to receive data for updates.
Keep everything charged up
Proving that the Defender has certainly evolved with the times, a total of five 12-volt charging sockets can be found throughout the interior. Potentially perfect for powering camping and lifestyle accessories. In addition, up to five USB charging ports are also included, dependent on seating capacity. It might make you think twice about hosing out that rubber floor, though,
Even the key is ready for activities
Land Rover will offer the second-generation of the Activity Key for the new Defender as an option. This allows the driver to lock and open the Defender using a device similar to a smart watch. Being shock-proof and water resistant lets owners engage in a range of lifestyle activities without the need to carry around a traditional key fob.
Ready to order right now
If you are excited by the new 2020 Defender, Land Rover is already accepting orders for the 110 version right now. There is also an online configurator ready to help you plan your dream 4×4. The short-wheelbase 90 will be available to order from the middle of 2020, whilst the release of the commercial variants will be detailed nearer the time.
Land Rover Defender UK prices
The Defender 110 costs from £45,240 for the D200 diesel, up to £78,800 for the range-topping P400 petrol. Defender 90 and Commercial prices will be announced nearer their respective launch dates, but expect to pay from £40,000 for the 90 and £35,000 (plus VAT) for the van.
Prices for Honda’s e electric city car have been revealed – alongside a production-ready model – at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show.
It starts from £26,160, with deliveries expected to commence by early summer 2020.
Buy on finance for £299 a month
The 100kW Honda e costs from £26,160, although that figure includes the £3,500 government plug-in car grant. Without that, it would be £29,660.
The 113kW ‘Advance’ version begins at £28,660, inclusive of the grant.
Alternatively, Honda e finance starts from £299 per month. That’s based on an 8,000-mile annual limit and 23 percent deposit. Paying £50 a month more gets you into the Advance model, which has an electric centre mirror to accompany the camera side mirrors, plus Honda Parking Pilot.
Ordering for the Advance version opens today at dealerships in the UK. Those who made initial reservations will get priority. Expect to receive an invitation to link up with your local dealer if you are among them.
Follow through with the order and you can expect to get one of the first summer 2020 deliveries.
“We’re pleased to be able to confirm the pricing for the Honda e,” said Phil Webb, head of car at Honda UK.
“Designed for the urban environment, and originally called the Urban EV, the Honda e has a competitive range of up to 136 miles.
“Honda research has found the average European commute is approximately 30 miles, making it more than sufficient. Coupled with the fast-charge capability of 80 percent in 30 minutes, the Honda e is perfect for the urban environment.
“Honda e is the embodiment of the brand’s commitment to electrification and is the next step towards our electric vision for 100 percent of European sales to be electrified by 2025.”
Volkswagen has finally taken the wraps off its new ID.3 electric car ahead of the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The claims are bullish: VW says this is its third ‘most important’ launch ever, alongside the original Beetle and Volkswagen Golf. Indeed, it could redefine the people’s car: Golf-sized, but with space inside of a Passat.
Does it have the potential to put VW’s mainstay hatch out of a job? Let’s get the important stuff out of the way.
205-340 miles of range
Exactly how the ID.3’s powertrain performs will dictate its suitability for the average buyer. No surprises here, it’s one of the most impressive electric cars yet.
Three battery size options are available at launch. The cheapest entry-level model gets a 205-mile range from its 45 kWh battery. It can be charged up to a 180-mile capability within half an hour, charging at a 100kW output.
The larger battery sizes are 58 kWh and 77 kWh, good for a respective 260 and 341 miles of range. All are WLTP-certified range calculations. Interestingly, it is rear-wheel drive: AWD versions come later.
The ID.3 is starting as the ID family means to go on in terms of sustainability. Production of the car, through the supply chain and the battery, is totally carbon neutral.
Inside the ID.3
The ID.3 is as futuristic as you’d expect in the cabin. As with much of what’s coming out of the VW Group right now, very little is controlled with buttons.
Everything apart from the electric windows and hazard lights use touch-sensitive haptic controls, mostly located on the 10.0-inch central display and the steering wheel.
In terms of space, as above, it leads the family hatch class. The ‘Open Space’ design is a result of the inherent advantages of an electric powertrain.
Short overhangs, a short bonnet and no encroachment into the cabin from an engine, transmission or driveline. While there isn’t a typical length of bonnet and short overhangs, the ID.3 still looks the part from the outside.
“The ID.3 is an all-rounder that is suitable for everyday use,” claims Silke Bagschik, Head of Sales and Marketing for the ID family
“It is compact, as such offering the maneuverability of a small car with the interior space of a mid-range vehicle. It combines exciting design with innovative technology and significant range.”
From under £27,000
The ID.3 is going to be available from under £27,000, for the 205-mile capable car. The top-end first edition cars are available from £35,000.
ID.3 Max is the top-of-the-range version of the new family electric car. As well as a panoramic movable glass sunroof and a Beats audio system, it also features a revolutionary augmented reality head-up display. This equipment comes over and above the Plus specification which has automatic cruise control, a rear-view camera and an advanced keyless go system. Matrix LED lights are also standard.
The ID.3 is the next step in EV progression towards taking over from ICE cars. It goes a bit further, charges a bit faster and costs a bit less than what’s come before. What it isn’t, is beholden to ICE tropes. It’s not a car that once had an engine, that’s now electric.
It’s a ground-up design that makes few concessions to petrol and diesel-powered convention. Our first real taste of what VW’s MEB modular electric drive matrix architecture is capable of shows a great deal of promise indeed.
The Frankfurt Motor Show is one of the biggest motor shows on the calendar and was once considered a must-attend event for the world’s motor manufacturers. Not so now. With the number of marques skipping it this year, you could fill the halls of an entire new motor show.
Even the organisers admit change is afoot, saying “the social and political environment are very different from previous events. It is no longer essential to present everything, but instead to provide the right impulses”. These are the absentees.
Ferrari
Ferrari is perhaps the most notable omission from Frankfurt this year. Why? Well, in the past it’s been a key participant in the show. The 430 Scuderia, 458 Italia and 458 Speciale are just a few of the major debuts Ferrari brought to Frankfurt. It also has plenty to show off. Apart from the new SF90 hybrid hypercar, the F8 Spider and 812 GTS drop-top models are both hot off the press.
Alpine
Alpine is staying home for Frankfurt this year. Frankly, we’re not surprised, given that it’s a relatively small company that needs to closely manage its expenses. With no new cars to share with Frankfurt show-goers, and the A110 getting plenty of good reviews, there’s perhaps no need.
Aston Martin
Meanwhile, Aston Martin seems to have something all-new coming every week. With its first SUV ready to be revealed, and a range of mid-engined exotica waiting in the wings, why wouldn’t Aston go to Frankfurt? The marque has a few tough questions to answer around share prices, truth be told, and Geneva always seems to be its mainstay.
Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo is staying back from Frankfurt as well, joining Ferrari in what seems to be quite the FCA boycott. In fairness to Alfa, we’re not aware of anything pressing that they have to show off. A Frankfurt stand could be an expensive way of making that quite apparent.
Chrysler
The ‘C’ in FCA joins the wider group in abstaining from Frankfurt and we don’t blame it. Chrysler is without much in the way of Europe-centric offerings at the moment.
Fiat
Slightly more confusing is the lack of Fiat, and therefore Abarth. Unlike the Chrysler side of the FCA operation, Fiat is theEuropean element. However, with the new 500 nowhere in sight and a replacement for the Punto a great unknown, what purpose would a show stand serve?
Nissan
Nissan too is declining Frankfurt – a curious omission from such a major brand. The show this year has been marred by environmental protests, so given Nissan’s recent trouble with emissions, staying away may prove a good call.
Infiniti
Taking the prize for the least surprising Frankfurt absentee is Infiniti. Given that it’s finally given up the ghost and announced its exit from Europe, attendance at Frankfurt would feel odd to say the least.
Mazda
Having just launched its new 3 family hatch and saloon, as well as the CX-30 SUV, both with a clever new Skyactiv-X engine, should Mazda be showing off at Frankfurt? Given the focus on future tech and curbing emissions, you’d think it would have a strong hand to play. That’s not even taking into account the 30th anniversary of the MX-5. Ho hum.
Rolls-Royce
Following in the footsteps of fellow luxury brands Aston Martin and Ferrari, here’s Rolls-Royce. The maker of the ‘Best Car in the World’ has nothing new to show at Frankfurt, and what it does offer is selling well. Not that Rolls is known for restraint and considered spending, but a Frankfurt stand might feel a little gratuitous.
Bentley
Also, it doesn’t have Bentley to contend with. The flying B is also skipping Frankfurt. It does have a fair bit more to show off, though. The fantastic EXP 100 concept, the continuation Blower models and the new Flying Spur, to name but three. Not enough, it seems, to warrant floor space in Frankfurt. For shame!
Toyota
Back down to Earth with Toyota. This is a curious one, but we’ve been given a reason. Its skipping of Frankfurt is part of “a review of marketing activity and spending”.
Dacia
Dacia, in the ultimate considered approach to spending, is also omitting Frankfurt from its calendar. The budget brand in the Renault-Nissan group joins Mitsubishi in skipping the German show. Renault will be in attendance, though, with a new Clio, and hopefully a Megane with a certain German lap record to show off.
Peugeot
The other French marques will not be in Frankfurt, though. PSA is mostly staying away, save for Vauxhall’s sister brand, Opel. With Peugeot’s recent upmarket leanings and its electric 208 on the horizon, we thought it would be out in force at Frankfurt. Alas, no.
DS
Speaking of upmarket leanings, PSA’s pretender to German premium appeal is also missing out. And so is sister-brand Citroen.
Cadillac
More surprising an omission than you might think are a couple of key General Motors marques. Firstly, Cadillac: as it takes aim at the German marques, you’d think it would show up on their home turf for a throwdown.
Chevrolet
Is Chevy skipping Frankfurt a surprise? Actually, it is. If you’re preparing to launch one of the most hotly-anticipated sports cars of the last decade – the mid-engined Corvette – shouldn’t you be showing it off?
Subaru
Another marque with not an awful lot to present is Subaru. The theme at this year’s show seems to be bleeding edge technology – not words we’d use to describe anything launched over six months ago.
Volvo
You’d think Volvo’s focus on safety and emissions would work well at Frankfurt. Yet even with its fresh-faced lineup looking stronger than ever, the Swedes will be missing from the show.
Suzuki
Suzuki is in the business of cutting back at the moment. The new Swift and Jimny are appealing, but it has removed the Baleno and Celerio from UK sale. Frankfurt would be a big spend with not an awful lot to show off.
Who is at Frankfurt?
With all this talk of who isn’t at Frankfurt, we should highlight the important stuff that WILL be there. The Volkswagen Group will present a hotly anticipated two-prong EV effort, with the VW ID.3 and the Porsche Taycan. And there’s the new Land Rover Defender, of course.
Less than a month before the latest series of Fifth Gear returns to TV screens, Tiff Needell has made a shock announcement.
After some 17 years of involvement with the motoring show, Needell has confirmed that he will no longer be part of it.
His revelation on social media suggested that the decision had been taken by executives at Discovery Networks Europe, rather than by him.
Unfortunately someone @DiscoveryUK has decided @FifthGearTV will be a better show without me. Sad time for me as I was pivotal in the creation of the programme but if you do like to see me having fun in cars the good news is I'll be doing a lot more on https://t.co/fnNbqE9804
Needell was partly responsible for the creation of the Fifth Gear franchise, born from the demise of the original Top Gear series.
First aired in 2002 on Channel 5, the programme later moved to the Discovery Channel, followed by time on the History channel. The free-to-air Quest channel has been the latest home of Fifth Gear since 2018.
The almost two decades of presenting Fifth Gear by Needell, were in addition to the 14 years he spent working on Top Gear for the BBC. Current Top Gear presenter Chris Harris was one of the first to offer his support to Needell, following today’s announcement.
I’m sending you a MASSIVE hug. But you’re still skidding around on the Internet telly box and you’ll soon be on a podcast!
Continuing Fifth Gear presenters Jason Plato and Jonny Smith also commented that Needell would be missed by them on the show.
You have been missed by us all pal and will continue to be @tiff_tv I hope that sometime soon we can work again together and you can continue your work in making every single one of my hairs go grey! Good luck over on @Lovecars mate xx https://t.co/Ur1t8zqQ8w
I miss @tiff_tv hugely. I know I’ll get to work with you again one day in some form. Maybe I’ll talk you sleep with old crap car tech specs. But seriously Tiff, it has been an honour getting to share cars and banter with you for a living. @Lovecars has gained what we have lost. https://t.co/8aNIprrPv2
Needell has noted that he will be continuing to appear on video, as part of the Lovecars YouTube channel. He has previously appeared in a number of videos for the online outlet, and looks set to have plans to do even more now.
Along with the news about Needell, the start date for the latest series of Fifth Gear has also been confirmed as the 3rd October 2019.
New research has revealed some intriguing details on the speeding habits of UK motorists, including when they’re most likely to speed.
Data obtained from the Department for Transport (DfT) revealed that Sunday is the most popular day for speeding, with motorists mostly likely to break limits in the early hours of the morning. That goes for every day of the week, with 63 percent doing so between 4am and 5am.
Overall, 53 percent test their speedo on Sundays, 51 percent do the same on Saturday. Monday, Tuesday and Friday follow, with 47 percent. Thursday and last-place Wednesday appear to be the most sensible days of the week, with 46 percent of drivers speeding mid-week.
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MoneySuperMarket, which obtained the data from DfT, also looked at insurance enquiry data for some insights. It found that just eight percent of drivers declare speeding convictions when enquiring about insurance.
Why? Well, they could be avoiding higher premiums, which are £72 more expensive on average with a conviction.
Why do we speed?
As for why we speed, most drivers plead ignorance, with 42 percent saying they weren’t paying attention to their speed. Four-in-ten use what you’d imagine is the most common excuse: they’re running late. Speeding is, for 17 percent of us, habitual.
“Our findings suggest that drivers are looking to take advantage of emptier roads on weekends and in the early hours,” said Rachel Wait, consumer affairs spokesperson at MoneySuperMarket.
“But it is important to remember that there are still major safety rules to abide by, no matter what time it is.
“If you are caught speeding and want to keep your insurance costs down, it’s worth seeing whether you can take part in a speed awareness course, which means you won’t get points on your licence and provides a helpful reminder about speeding limits and the importance of driving safely.”
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