A pair of fast Fords have broken price records at Silverstone Auctions’ September sale. Together, a 1990 Sierra Sapphire Cosworth 4×4 and a restored 1972 Escort RS1600 sold for more than £120,000.
Despite an estimate of around £30,000, the Sierra Sapphire eventually made £52,750 including the buyer’s premium. The 13,310-mile example is one of the finest in the country, with just one lady owner from new.
It’s also believed to be one of the first six sold in the UK. All that, combined with a healthy history file, makes a £20,000-over-estimate hammer price believable enough.
Big prices for classic Escorts are never surprising these days. Nevertheless, a £70,875 hammer figure for a homologation-special Escort RS1600 is remarkable.
It is certainly a deserving example, having just been restored to the highest standard. Presented in Le Mans Green, the car had buyers battling for ownership.
“To achieve not one but two new world records is a fantastic result for our team,” commented Joe Watts, classic car specialist at Silverstone Auctions. “Both our Porsche Sale and September Sale saw some outstanding classics and excellent prices across the two days.”
The best of the rest
Other cars brought home the coin, too. A 1984 Renault 5 Turbo 2 made £86,625 – £16,000 over its lower estimate. And a 1971 Maserati Indy brought home £60,750 – £10,000 over estimate.
The Porsche Sale auction a day before did great numbers, too, with a 1998 993 Turbo S beating its estimate by £16,000 and a 1958 356A selling for £20,000 more than expected.
Just over a month after the Ferrari 488 Pista Spider made its debut at the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the company’s 50th factory-built drop-top has been unveiled in Paris.
Not much has changed since Pebble Beach: the days have got a little shorter, the temperature has dropped, and we’re a few weeks closer to leaving the EU. But it’s a good opportunity for Ferrari to generate a little extra publicity for its latest Spider.
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It shares the same 720hp twin-turbocharged V8 engine a the 488 Pista coupe, making it the most powerful production Spider in Ferrari’s history. The performance figures are compelling: 0-62mph in 2.85 seconds, 0-124mph in 8.0 seconds, and a top speed of 211mph.
Ferrari hasn’t supplied any fuel consumption or CO2 figures, but we suspect you don’t really care. Let’s just say that it’ll consume some petrol.
Not that the conversion from tin-top to drop-top has added a huge amount of weight. At 1,380kg, it is 100kg heavier than the Pista coupe, but it’s also 50kg lighter than the 488 GTB. Ferrari achieved this by using magic and some of its F1 knowhow, with 18kg shaved off the weight of the engine alone.
‘The greatest technological transfer from the track’
According to Ferrari, the 488 Pista Spider “benefits from the greatest technological transfer from the track of any road-legal open-top car”, thanks in part to the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE).
In short, the system manages the brake pressure at the calipers more accurately, so it’s easier to control the car when drifting sideways. Perfect for capturing those ‘driving God’ moments on the GoPro and uploading them to YouTube.
The 488 Pista Spider will lap the Fiorano test track in 1min 21.5secs, in case you were wondering.
We still don’t know how much it’ll cost – another opportunity for a press release, no doubt – but you should expect to pay a premium for removing the top. Bank on spending the best part of £275,000 if you fancy a place in the queue.
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Renault has unveiled its latest vision for future mobility: the EZ-Ultimo concept. The star of Renault’s stand at the 2018 Paris Motor Show, it’s described by the company as a “premium and shared robo-vehicle”. In reality, that makes it something like an autonomous first-class train carriage for the road.
What is the Renault EZ-Ultimo?
Renault says it wants to “re-invent life on board”, turning the car into a place for work, rest, play or relaxation. Anything we might do at home or the office should be possible on the move. We’re already getting others to do the driving for us, reckons the company, with the rise of lift-hailing apps and services.
“As consumer trends change and people are enjoying ride-hailing services more and more, a new paradigm for mobility will emerge,” said Laurens van den Acker, SVP of corporate design at Renault.
The EZ Ultimo is the next logical step. It sounds very similar to Volvo’s vision of an autonomous pod, the 360c concept, which was pitched as a threat to the short-haul airline industry.
Funky French styling
Similar in ethos to the 360c, the EZ-Ultimo is also similar in silhouette. It’s very much a carriage rather than a traditional car, but futuristic wheels, angular flourishes and artistic lighting liven up the design. While the Volvo’s clean-cut Scandinavian lines are appealing, the Renault enjoys flashes of French flair.
“Inspired by contemporary architecture, and completely integrated in future smart cities, EZ-Ultimo will provide an exclusive experience for all. With autonomous, electric and connected cars, we are entering a new exciting era in automotive design,” says Renault.
A luxurious office on wheels
When the doors slide to one side, you get your first view of the cabin. It shares more with the living space of a modern apartment than a car. It’s high-class, too, utilising wood, leather and even marble for a “relaxing and enjoyable drive”.
By comparison with the Volvo, it does seem less versatile. There’s no bed for cross-continental overnight hauls, for example. Instead, you have office-style seating and workspaces. That, together with its new Augmented Editorial Experience (AEX), is how Renault aims to “re-invent travel time”.
AEX is what Renault calls a “realist immersive experience which combines personal premium content, multi-media experiences and mobility”. We take that to mean big screens for working and watching on the go.
Overall, the EZ-Ultimo is a curious take on a future we’re still uneasy about. Nevertheless, such new types of car are giving designers freedoms many before couldn’t have dreamed about, and yielding interesting results.
The new 2019 BMW 3 Series marks a giant stride forwards for one of BMW’s most important model lines. It’s easy for brands to play it safe in this sector – witness the latest Audi A4. But then look at the meek market reaction to the A4, and Audi’s subsequent struggle for sales.
This, surely, has emboldened BMW with the new 3 Series. So here it is, the seventh-generation 3, the most stylistically different from its predecessor since the futuristic E36 version back in 1990. It’s the undeniable highlight of the 2018 Paris Motor Show.
This generation of 3 Series is known as G20 and will go on UK sale on 9 March 2019. It’s a measure of what an important car it is that BMW already has an on-sale date. And a price: it’s yours from £33,610.
We’ll see it first as a petrol 330i and diesel 320d. Both will be four-cylinder turbos, and BMW will quickly follow them up with a 330e iPerformance plug-in hybrid. Six-cylinder performance versions? They’ll come, but they’re not the big news at launch. The rest of the 3 Series is. And it’s quite the story to tell.
2019 BMW 3 Series: outside
Creases and contour lines dominate the appearance. This is brave stuff, for a 3 Series. The front has an entirely new look, with a broad BMW kidney grille and intricately shaped headlights. Four contour lines on the bonnet feed into them, and the bonnet itself sits neatly flush with the lights and kidneys.
BMW is proud of the intakes for the aero-aiding Air Curtains on SE and Sport models, because they use a NACA design for the intakes, something more commonly seen on retro racing cars.
There’s a lot of design detail on the side profile, such as strong lines around the rear door handle and a bold lower contour that BMW says emphasises the rear wheelarches. The designers have also integrated the BMW ‘Hofmeister kink’ into the C-pillar, so the rear doors have a freestanding glass edge. And you thought simple frameless windows were cool…
Recent 3 Series rear ends have been forgettable, but the new model has a pronounced boot lid spoiler lip and dark-tinted L-shaped tail lamps. It’s slipperier through the air, too: the Cd drops from 0.26 to 0.23.
2019 BMW 3 Series: inside
BMW has rewarded loyal 3 Series customers who’ve had to put up with the humdrum, forgettable interior of the current car with nothing short of a revolution. Everything cool that’s been admired in umpteen 8 Series concept cars is in evidence here, from the all-new BMW Cockpit infotainment display to the intricate heater controls first seen on the new BMW Z4.
The design and layout is driver-focused and all-new trim materials are available, including open pore wood and mesh-effect aluminium. Electroplated trim strips add a quality feel, while BMW’s at last moved the starter button to a more convenient location next to the gearlever.
The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant comes to the new 3 Series. We’ve explained what this does separately, and it means new 3 Series owners will be able to speak with their cars by saying ‘Hey BMW’, if they so wish.
It’s bigger all round, with more shoulder room in the front, more legroom in the rear and more space between the front and rear seats. It’s easier to get in and out, and all-round improvements to seat comfort will impress high-mileage users. A 480-litre boot is enhanced by 36 litres of oddment stowage.
Engines and suspension
The launch 2.0-litre engine range comprises 190hp 320d diesel or 258hp 330i petrol. The diesel does 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds, or 6.9 seconds as an auto (an xDrive 4WD option has identical acceleration). It averages 64.2mpg as a manual and 67.3mpg as an auto, and costs from £33,610.
The 330i only comes as an eight-speed auto, and does 0-62mph in a swift 5.8 seconds, yet still claims 48.7mpg and emits 132g/km CO2. It’s priced from £37,660.
Suspension is overhauled, to take advantage of a 25 percent stiffer bodyshell (it’s 50 percent stiffer in key areas). Clever lift-related dampers are standard and spring rates are 20 percent firmer for a sportier drive. M Sport models have more focused suspension as standard, with a 10mm lower ride height; Adaptive M suspension with variable modes is an option.
The 330i M Sport has unique lightweight brakes, with aluminium centres and grey cast iron discs – spot them by their blue calipers. They are optional on the diesels as part of an M Sport Plus package, as is an M Sport differential.
Trims and standard equipment
Because it’s ready to go on sale, BMW can tell us what each trim variant gets as standard. Here are some of the highlights in the kit lists over today’s cars.
The SE now has LED headlights with ‘eyebrow’ indicators, a reversing camera, 11-colour interior ambient lighting, three-zone climate control, a 40:20:40 split rear seat, acoustic glazing (including the side glass), 8.8-inch BMW Live Cockpit Plus and 17-inch alloys.
The Sport has heated leather sports seats, 18-inch alloys, high-gloss Shadow Line window surrounds, a high-gloss black kidney grille and high-gloss black interior trim strips.
The M Sport has a bespoke front bumper, side skirts and rear apron, Dark Shadow rear diffuser, another type of sports seats inside, anthracite roofliner and Aluminium Tetragon trim strips. It also has the all-digital BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a bigger 12.3-inch instrument cluster and bigger 10.3-inch central screen.
All cars have a standard 100-watt stereo with an optional 16-speaker 464-watt Harman Kardon surround-sound system available as an option.
There are 10 metallic colours, with one of them, Portimao Blue, reserved for M Sport models. Two non-metallic shades are offered.
2019 BMW 3 Series: did you know?
BMW has simplified the trim and options. There are now just six options packages and 10 individual options, to make the ordering process easier.
The optional electric glass sunroof is 100mm longer.
The optional head-up display’s projection area is 70 percent larger
The BMW Digital key has a motion sensor and, when it is put down on a table, switches into standby mode and stops transmitting, so the signal can’t be picked up by thieves with transmitter devices.
You can lock and unlock the new 3 Series with a smartphone, if you have a Samsung Galaxy with Android 8.1 and above. That’s because the BMW Digital Key has Near Field Communication tech: once you put the smartphone in its holder, the car will start. Owners can even share their key with up to five others.
Apple CarPlay is now standard on the 3 Series – but only for a year. After then, it will require a subscription, either for a year, three years, or lifetime.
The World Car Awards is the biggest automotive awards programme on the planet. Each year, it aims to discover the very finest cars on sale around the world.
An international team of jurors will now assess each and every car, before drawing up a shortlist next year. The winners will be announced at the 2019 New York International Auto Show. It’s called the road to the World Car Awards, and it starts in Paris…
World Car of the Year
The overall World Car of the Year award is the one everyone wants to win. To be eligible, cars must be sold in at least two continents, and several countries, and judges must be able to spend quality time with them to carry out assessments.
This ensures the results are robust: last year’s winner, the Volvo XC60, was another popular victor that followed on from another SUV, the Jaguar F-Pace. So who’s in the running for the prize this year? We start from the top – and it’s ‘A’ for…
2018 winner: Volvo XC60
Acura RDX
The Acura RDX is a very well-received compact crossover. Initial tests have shown it to be refined, able and appealing – a strong competitor for rivals such as the Audi Q5. Acura needs a boost, so could this be it?
Audi E-tron
The all-electric Audi E-tron is the firm’s first full production-ready EV. It follows the zeitgeist in being an SUV, but while it’s modern, it isn’t quite as futuristic-looking as its arch-rival, the Jaguar I-Pace. Audi is the most successful car maker in the World Car Awards, and the E-tron will surely be a contender this year.
Audi A1
Audi’s getting bold with the new A1 supermini. Where its predecessor was understated, this is crisp-edged and radical, with more creases and lines than we’ve ever seen on a small Audi. The interior is a step on, too – and all for a relatively accessible price. If it drives as well as it looks, it’s bound to do well.
Audi A6
The market may be erring away from large executive saloons (and estates), but Audi hasn’t let up with development of the latest A6. Under the watch of design chief Marc Lichte, it’s another new model from the brand that looks bolder than its predecessor. Early tests indicate it drives well.
Audi Q3
The long-awaited replacement for the trend-setting Audi Q3 small SUV, this new model is, you guessed it, more distinctive and eye-catching than its predecessor. And its interior is another leap forward, even by the high standards of Audi. It’s a strong World Car Awards line-up from Ingolstadt this year, that’s for sure.
BMW 3 Series
One of the strongest contenders in the 2019 World Car Awards is one of the biggest new models to launch in 2018: the BMW 3 Series. Arguably Munich’s most important model, the 3 Series is a bit of an eyebrow-raiser already, with its edgy new look and futuristic interior. Can it keep the momentum going to the New York finals in April next year?
BMW i8 Roadster
The BMW i8 Roadster is a little less headline-grabbing, but it’s still a welcome addition to the range. Adding open-top allure to BMW’s plug-in hybrid sports car, we expect it to give the i8 a new lease of life.
BMW X2
If the BMW X1 is a bit too ordinary for you, BMW’s here with a more coupe-like X2 small SUV. It’s perhaps not the most successful example of a concept transitioning into a production car, so we’ll watch with interest to see what the judges make of it.
Cadillac XT4
Another U.S.-focused brand with a new downsized crossover, the XT4 is proving a great addition to Cadillac’s range. It looks the business and drives smartly. Is that enough to scoop some silverware?.
Citroen C5 Aircross
At long last, Citroen has a family-sized SUV that’s unique-looking and desirable enough to consider alongside a Nissan Qashqai or Renault Kadjar. This is the car Citroen dealers have been crying out for.
Dacia Duster
The new Dacia Duster is a big advance over the original. It’s more refined, nicer to drive and more sophisticated inside – you can even get Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. Prices remain as value-focused as ever, too.
Ford Focus
Twenty years on, Ford aims to recreate the magic of the original Focus with this fourth generation car. A ground-up fresh design, its styling has divided opinion, but core strengths include a roomy interior, a sportier yet more refined drive, more equipment and a vastly improved dashboard layout. It’s certainly a contender.
Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid
The original hybridgen fuel cell Honda Clarity was an ingenious car, but one ahead of its time. The infrastructure still isn’t here to support it. So here’s one that works today – using a plug-in hybrid petrol powertrain. Is it the right sort of fix?
Hyundai Santa Fe
The original Santa Fe was one of the cars that put Hyundai on the map, and this latest one pushes it even further towards premium sector appeal. It still – just – has prices on its side, too.
Hyundai Nexo
This futuristic-looking model was born as a concept, but is now entering production. And the Hyundai Nexo has a suitably futuristic hydrogen fuel cell drivetrain to match its head-turning looks. The question is, as with the Honda Clarity, is it too far ahead of its time?
Infiniti QX50
Infiniti has been waiting for a breakthrough car for a long time. The QX50 could be it. Distinctively styled, it also has one of the world’s most advanced petrol engines under its bonnet, and the driving dynamics to match. One to watch.
Jaguar E-Pace
The Jaguar E-Pace is a downsized F-Pace, a former World Car Awards winner. It’s cute, but early drives suggest it doesn’t quite have what it takes to be a front-runner. More is on the way, though, promises Jaguar, so it could still cut through. We shall see.
Jaguar I-Pace
The Jaguar that everyone’s been talking about is the remarkable I-Pace all-electric SUV. A rival to the Tesla Model X, it’s a premium-brand EV that’s beaten all its German rivals to market. Not only that, it’s a brilliant car to drive. This has got to be a surefire front-runner for 2019.
Jeep Cherokee
Jeep has given the previously disappointing Cherokee a full overhaul to try and bring it up to scratch. But we’re not sure it’s enough.
Jeep Wrangler
The all-new Jeep Wrangler is a much more exciting car to consider for the 2019 World Car Awards. Land Rover still can’t bring us a new Defender, but Jeep’s managed to recreate the Wrangler for the modern era – and with some success, too.
Kia Ceed / Forte
This understated-looking car is an important model for Kia. Its move into the mainstream, as a genuine alternative to a Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf, sees it perform almost entirely without fault. It’s an impressively able all-rounder.
Kia Niro EV
The headline here is a 301-mile electric driving range. That’s more than almost anything on the market, yet Kia’s managed to maintain its usual solid value for money as well. A half-price Jaguar I-Pace for the real world? A sales pitch like that could see it do rather well.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul is another car that’s been lifted for 2019, but we can’t see it standing out – not when the Niro EV captures the mood so much more ably.
Lexus ES
Lexus is getting serious, and wants to take on the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6 across the globe with its petrol and petrol-electric hybrid ES. It takes over the mantle from the dreary GS and, hopes the firm, will prove much more engaging to car buyers. And World Car Awards judges?
Lexus UX
The other new Lexus for 2018 is more exciting: the junior crossover SUV UX. Sitting below the NX, this aggressively-styled machine is right on target in terms of looks, and the hybrid engines beneath its bonnet make all the right noises too. Watch out, Audi Q3.
Nissan Altima
A car focused on North American dominance, the latest Altima is extremely stylish, packed with technology – and already seems to be storming up sales charts in the U.S.
Nissan Kicks
The Nissan Kicks is a global crossover aimed at a value-seeking audience. It’s a more practical, better-value alternative to the ageing Nissan Juke, and a high-profile market launch has seen it already win many fans.
Seat Arona
Seat can do no wrong at the moment. European buyers love their small crossover SUVs, and the launch of the Arona was perfectly timed to capitalise on this. It’s a car that’s won praise from critics and it will be interesting to see if this momentum carries into the 2019 World Car Awards.
Subaru Forester
Subaru hasn’t forgotten why people love the Forester with its 2019 redesign – but it has added appeal for those who haven’t warmed to previous models. More stylish and standout, with some cool options packs, it’s a global car that has a warm following in many markets.
Suzuki Jimny
It already seems to have won the popular vote: motoring journalists who attended the first drive of the Jimny came back in raptures. Here’s to finding out how the rugged-look 4×4 tiddler fares in everyday use. Will it make the final running?
Toyota Avalon
The big Toyota Avalon is a large four-door saloon that dominates the North American full-size sedan market. Many buyers see it as a value-priced Lexus: that’s how comfortable and sophisticated it is.
Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Toyota has completely redesigned the Corolla for 2018 – and, in Europe, also revived the Corolla name, replacing the Auris. It’s a far more competitive compact family hatchback and, if it can carry some of the momentum generated by the C-HR crossover, it could do well.
Toyota RAV4
Another Toyota dullard that’s been given a new lease of life for 2018 is the RAV4. Again, it’s more distinctive and interesting, while the hybrid drivetrains are consumer-friendly. Yet another car we can’t wait to drive.
Volvo S60/V60
All the momentum for Volvo in recent years has been SUV-shaped. The S60 and V60 are its attempts to take on the formidable Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Early signs are that it could yet muscle in on the sector dominated by the Germans.
Volvo XC40
The Volvo XC60 won the overall World Car Award last year, so it’s with interest that we’ll drive its smaller sibling, the XC40. Surely the Swedish firm can’t do the double – and make it three years of SUV victories in a row?
World Luxury Car
That’s the exhaustive list of contenders for the overall World Car Award, but the prizes don’t stop there. The luxury car market is booming across the world and manufacturers take this category seriously. Last year’s victor, the Audi A8, set new standards. How will the 2019 contenders fare?
2018 winner: Audi A8
Audi A7 Sportback
The pioneering four-door luxury fastback is all-new for 2018. Audi has high hopes for the A7 Sportback – but it’s not the only contender…
Audi Q8
Indeed, the Audi Q8 luxury SUV coupe is perhaps an even more formidable competitor. It takes all the excellence of the Q7 SUV and adds in genuinely head-turning styling and an imperious, sports-infused drive. Don’t be surprised to see it shortlisted.
BMW 8 Series
We’ve been looking forward to this for years. Replacing the underwhelming 6 Series, the return of the 8 Series takes BMW’s high-end coupe upmarket – it’s a car you’d consider instead of a Porsche. Built from a platform that takes in much of what made the 7 Series – a former World Car Awards luxury car winner – we think it’s going to do battle royal with the Audi Q8.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
The old Mercedes-Benz GLE was once called the M-Class and was an SUV with a bit too much emphasis on the ‘4×4’ part. Mercedes-Benz has gradually been refining it, though, and this latest GLE, which draws from so much of the current E-Class, is the most expertly-honed iteration yet.
Volkswagen Touareg
Volkswagen has excelleed itself with the latest Touareg. It’s a car that shares an architecture with the Audi Q7 and Bentley Bentayga, and, if asked to choose, we’d take the VW and save the cash. That’s what an impressive luxury car it is. All it’s lacking is a suitably luxury badge…
World Performance Car
Judges always love assessing the World Performance Car contenders. Last year, the amazing array of models included the prize-winning BMW M5, and this year’s line-up should make for some equally thrilling test drives.
2018 winner: BMW M5
Aston Martin Vantage
The exciting Aston Martin Vantage is a car that’s been designed to offer a vibrant alternative to the Porsche 911. Front-engined, packed with power and looking like a million dollars, you can even get it in eye-piercing lime green. This car means business.
BMW M2 Competition
The final iteration of the acclaimed M2 is a very special machine indeed. You sense this is a car the M engineers have pored over, to send the M2 out on a high and get car collectors lining up to snare one. In years to come, this could be considered a landmark car.
Hyundai Veloster N
Everything that made the Hyundai i30 N so exciting, in a cool little four-door coupe body. But will the fact Europe isn’t getting it limit its success?
Kia Ceed GT
Europe is getting the Kia Ceed GT, however, which the firm says is a new type of performance car. Surprisingly, it doesn’t have the full-fat 2.0-litre turbo engine of its Hyundai i30 N sister car, but the downsized 1.6-litre turbo still puts out more than 200 horsepower, which Kia insists is enough for real-world, value-priced appeal. Is it?
McLaren 720S
And if you thought the Aston Martin was exciting, McLaren is here with the extraordinary 720S – one of the fastest and most intense supercars ever launched. A truly global performance car, we just know it’s going to do well.
World Green Car
The World Car Awards committee was one of the first to recognise advances in eco-friendly new cars on a global stage. The World Green Car prize is now well-established and last year’s winner, the Nissan Leaf, is making its mark on the new car sales charts. Contenders for the 2019 prize are stronger than ever.
2018 winner: Nissan Leaf
Audi E-tron
The first electric Audi is not just a contender for the overall prize, it’s also up for the World Green Car award. In a real sign of the times, it’s one of many dual runners…
BMW i8 Roadster
The i8 Roadster is arguably the world’s greenest sports car. Can losing its roof see it triumph in the 2019 World Green Car prize?
Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid
Giving the Clarity plug-in tech means it has another chance for success in the World Green Car awards.
Honda Insight
The latest Honda Insight revives a name from the past as a modern-day Toyota Prius rival. It has similarly sharp styling to the latest Civic and will do amazing MPG. Is it an award-winning revival, though?
Hyundai Nexo
Hyundai means business with the Nexo. The South Korean company thinks the hydrogen fuel cell’s time has come, so is going big with the pretty Nexo. The judges will listen with interest.
Jaguar I-Pace
The most significant Jaguar in decades – the I-Pace is a landmark all-electric performance SUV from the British brand, and as appealing to drive – and be driven in – as it is to look at. A favourite, we think.
Kia Niro EV
As mentioned, the Niro EV is a half-price I-Pace that democratises long-range electric crossovers. We are very much looking forward to seeing how it performs.
Lexus ES Hybrid
The familiar Lexus hybrid drivetrain is offered in the latest ES. Can it make the big new saloon a winner?
Lexus UX Hybrid
Again, we prefer the look of the new-for-2018 UX to its bigger ES brother. And, as it too is offered as a hybrid, it gets to appear in the World Green Car list.
Toyota Avalon Hybrid
The Avalon Hybrid is similar to the ES Hybrid, at least on paper. Can it spring a surprise when judges get round to testing it?
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Still among the few compact hybrid SUVs, Toyota is taking all it learned with this car’s predecessor and making the all-new RAV4 Hybrid even better to drive and even more efficient.
World Urban Car
The World Urban Car is a relatively new prize, one aimed at responding to the growth of the world’s megacities. In just a few years’ time, most of the world’s population will live in an urban area, meaning these cars will become increasingly important. Who’s in the running for 2019?
2018 winner: Volkswagen Polo
Audi A1
The exciting Audi A1 is an overall contender and also a World Urban Car contender. The old model did little wrong, so the judges will look forward to testing its replacement.
BMW X2
Urban environments favour small, compact cars, but also ones with high seating positions and tough, dent-resistant bodywork. The urban SUV is a growing sector, and BMW will be hoping the premium allure of its new X2 finds favour among the World Car Awards judges.
Kia Soul
One of the original urban SUVs, Kia has upped its game with the latest Soul – but has it done enough?
Seat Arona
The Seat Arona has been incredibly well received so its inclusion in the World Urban Car category seems obvious. Another high-riding machine, it has value pricing on its side, as well as good looks and a sophisticated interior.
Suzuki Jimny
The brilliant retro-designed Suzuki Jimny could be the ultimate urban warrior. Tough enough to take everything in its stride, it can off-road with the best of them, but it also has the onboard technology every sophisticated urban dweller needs in 2018. We look forward to seeing how it fares.
World Car Design of the Year
Finally, the annual World Car Design of the Year. This is a prize that’s assessed by an expert panel, who release the front-runners later in the competition. With so many beautiful and striking designs launched in 2018, they’ll have a tough job on their hands to draw up a shortlist.
Following an official unveiling at the Shanghai Motor Show in July, the 2018 Paris Motor Show is the first chance for European buyers to see the facelifted Porsche Macan.
If you expected dramatic surprises outside, you might be disappointed. This is a subtle exterior nip and tuck, with the biggest change happening at the back. The new three-piece LED light strip across the rear hatch is meant to embody classic ‘Porsche design DNA’. It gives a distinct signature at night, and is matched with new LED headlights at the front.
Beyond the lighting, you’ll need to really know your Macans to spot the revised front bumper. New classic Porsche colours such as Miami Blue, Mamba Green and Crayon might be more recognisable.
But that’s not to say the latest Macan doesn’t have the ability to raise eyebrows…
Hybrid theory
Although subtle outside changes were predictable, a revolution beneath the bonnet was thought to be on the cards. Porsche has recently made a show of the decision to abandon diesel power for good. With the larger Cayenne SUV offered with a hybrid powertrain, along with the Panamera, the junior Macan seemed ripe for hybridisation.
Instead, the revised Macan simply features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, similar to that in the Volkswagen Golf GTI. A gasoline particulate filter is part of the revisions, along with other tweaks to improve efficiency. Tellingly, power output has dropped from 252hp to 245hp.
Despite the small power reduction, 0-62mph takes the same 6.7 seconds as before. Four-wheel-drive is standard, as is a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
At least for now, that’s it on the engine front: just a 2.0-litre turbo petrol – no V6 petrol, no plug-ins and certainly no diesels. Is it a sign of the times?
Widescreen dreams
Inside, the big story is the enlargement of the HD multimedia touchscreen to a substantial 10.9-inches. The Porsche Communication Management system allows for easy connectivity with smartphones, whilst the ability to create a WLAN hotspot is standard.
A cloud-connected navigation system allows for real-time traffic updates to be taken into account, whilst those drivers who venture off-road can record their exploits with a dedicated app.
Drivers who want to feel like they are in a 911 can now specify an optional GT sports steering wheel. The design of it is influenced by the iconic Porsche sports car, and can feature a button to engage Sport mode, providing you tick all the relevant boxes. An air ioniser, with a dedicated cabin air filter, is another addition to the lengthy options list.
Strength in numbers
Whilst it might be easy to still treat the idea of a Porsche SUV with a modicum of contempt, the Macan and larger Cayenne are credited with the financial success of the German firm. Building cars like the Macan, means projects like the crazy retro 935 creation announced last week, can happen.
Zuffenhausen sold some 97,000 Macans last year, making it the best-selling Porsche model. In fact, more than one in three Porsches sold in 2017 was a Macan. That underscores how important the compact SUV is to the firm, and to allowing for wild 911 versions to exist.
New Macans are already rolling off the production line, with the first cars heading to the important Chinese market. UK buyers can place orders right now, with a starting price of £46,344 – an increase of less than £500 compared to the current car.
The first International Automobile Exhibition was held on the terrace of the Jardin des Tuileries in 1898, making this the 120th anniversary of the Paris Motor Show. This year, the show is as notable for the list of absentees as it is for the manufacturers in the French capital showcasing their latest metal. But there’s no shortage of debuts to get excited about, as our preview gallery reveals.
Ferrari Monza SP1 and SP2
The new Monza SP1 and SP2 models are the first in a new segment called ‘Icone’ and draw inspiration from Ferraris of the 1950s. The SP1 (top) is a single-seat road car, while the SP2 (above) does away with a tonneau cover and adds a second protective screen to become a two-seater. Each one will hit 62mph in just 2.9 seconds. They’re likely to be the biggest draws at this year’s show.
BMW 3 Series
In the real world, this is the probably the most important new car at the Paris Motor Show. Some 14 million BMW 3 Series have been sold since its launch in 1975, making it the best selling premium executive car the world has ever seen. It’s not hard to imagine what it will look like – even in full camo-wear – while the tech will be lifted from the 5 Series and 7 Series. The hours spent at the Nürburgring should ensure it retains the driving pleasure of its predecessors.
Peugeot e-Legend concept
The Peugeot e-Legend concept is an all-electric, fully-autonomous show car inspired by the famous 504 Coupe. A fitting tribute for a car celebrating its 50th anniversary, but the e-Legend has its eyes firmly on the future. Powered by 100Wh batteries, the 462hp concept has four-wheel drive, a 136mph top speed and will sprint to 62mph in less than four seconds. It also offers 442 miles of range.
Hyundai i30 Fastback N
The Hyundai i30 Fastback N is another car with countless Nürburgring hours to its name, and we’re confident that it will be every bit as good as its hatchback sibling. It’s the third N model after the five-door i30 N and the Veloster N, and we expect the performance figures to be similar to those of the hot hatch.
Suzuki Jimny
Suzuki is rolling into Paris armed with an antidote to the rise of the needlessly oversized and brutish SUV. The new Jimny tips its hat to Suzuki models of old, featuring the likes of round headlights, independent indicators, rear combination lights and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel. Power is sourced from a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, with two transmissions available. We’ll be driving a new Jimny before the Paris show…
DS 3 Crossback
As the new suggests, the new DS 3 Crossback will be a smaller sibling to the DS 7 Crossback (pictured) and will do battle in the hotly contested compact SUV segment. Although little is known about the new car, we do know that it will use PSA’s small Common Modular Platform and that an electric version is on the cards.
Porsche Macan
Fresh from its launch at the Shanghai Motor Show in July, the new Porsche Macan will be making its European debut in Paris. Sensibly, Porsche has retained much of the original car’s styling, adding a LED light strip across the back, standard-fit LED headlights and a new 11-inch touchscreen infotainment system. There’s also a new range of exterior colours, including Miami Blue, Mamba Green Metallic, Dolomite Silver Metallic and Crayon.
Mercedes-Benz EQC
If looks could kill, the Tesla Model X and Jaguar I-Pace could be in for a nasty surprise. Questionable aesthetics aside, the Mercedes-Benz EQC is the firm’s first fully-electric SUV, featuring an 80kWh lithium-ion battery providing a 280-mile range. Alternatively, if you’re not too fussed about overall range, the 408hp EQC will sprint to 62mph in just 5.1 seconds.
Skoda Kodiaq vRS
This is the first SUV to wear a vRS badge, with the hot Skoda Kodiaq powered by a 239hp twin-turbocharged diesel engine, making it the most powerful production diesel in the firm’s history. In June, a Skoda Kodiaq vRS driven by Sabine Schmitz set a record for the fastest time for a seven-seater SUV around the Nürburgring, lapping the famous circuit in 9:29.84 minutes. This should come in handy on the school run.
BMW 8 Series
The new BMW 8 Series isn’t making its debut at the Paris Motor Show – racegoers will have seen it at the 2018 Le Mans 24 Hours race – but we’re a little closer to seeing the first cars on the road. It’s based on the same platform as the 5 Series and 7 Series, but BMW has treated the 8 Series to a brand new, bespoke interior. Yours from £76,720.
Kia ProCeed
In common with the five-door Ceed, Kia has dropped the apostrophe (and the underscore) from the Proceed, with Paris our first chance to see the new five-door estate version. Kia is calling it a ‘shooting brake’, but we’re not sure it can live up to such a grand and noble tag. That said, if the 2017 Kia Proceed Concept is anything to go by, it’ll be quite a looker. Ding dong.
Peugeot 508 SW
The Peugeot 508 SW is the estate version of the 508 saloon and inherits all of the good looks of its stablemate. The sleek styling comes at a price – at 530 litres, the boot is 30 litres smaller than the old 508 SW, although this can be extended to 1,780 litres with the seats folded down. It makes the Volkswagen Passat estate look a tad outmoded.
Citroen C5 Aircross Hybrid Concept
The Citroen C5 Aircross Hybrid Concept will make its global debut in Paris – the first stage in the brand’s ‘energy transition offensive’, leading to 100 percent of the range having an electric option by 2025. The C5 Aircross features Citroen’s Progressive Hydraulic Cushions and Advanced Comfort seats, two innovations we’ve experienced in the new Citroen C4 Cactus.
Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
The European-designed and striking Corolla Touring Sports follows the unveiling of the Toyota Corolla hatchback revealed earlier this year. It also heralds the UK return of the Corolla name, replacing the outgoing Toyota Auris. A brand new 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain will be available, along with a 1.8-litre hybrid and a conventional 1.2-litre petrol.
BMW Z4
BMW chose Monterey Car Week to give the all-new Z4 its global debut, but Paris will be the first chance for the European public to cast its eyes over the roadster. Co-developed with Toyota – a new Supra is also on the way – the Z4 has a 50:50 weight distribution, a low centre of gravity and a wide track. We’ll have to wait for the full specs, but the M40i will be powered by a six-cylinder twin-turbocharged engine producing 340hp.
Mercedes-AMG A35
The new entry-level Mercedes-AMG A35 is based on the standard A-Class (pictured) and will sit below the A45 in AMG’s bonkers range of cars. Little is known about the A35, but we’re expecting a power output in excess of 300hp, a £35,000 price tag and countless opportunities to tempt Focus RS drivers into an impromptu traffic light Grand Prix.
Lexus LC Limited Edition
Lexus will unveil a new aptly-named LC Limited Edition in Paris, distinguished by its Naples Yellow paintwork which, the company says, is “achieved through [a] painstaking selection of layered paint and primer colours.” But it’s not all Tony Hart, because the LC LE also features the performance and handling features from the flagship LC Sport+ specification.
Audi A1
The new A1 is Audi’s most configurable car ever, making it the ‘pick and mix’ of the supermini sector. “Customers can combine exterior and interior lines however they like,” says Audi. Be prepared for some rather outlandish creations when the new A1 hits the streets.
BMW X5
You’ve already seen the photos, but this will be our first chance to get up close and personal with BMW’s luxury SUV. Predictably, the new X5 is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, which means more cabin and luggage space. It’s available to order now, with prices starting from £57,495.
Audi A4
With a facelifted Mercedes-Benz C-Class on sale and a new BMW 3 Series waiting in the wings, Audi had to do something with the A4. The response: a subtle new look, standard-fit sat nav and a small number of interior and tech upgrades.
Lexus RC
According to Lexus, this isn’t the new RC, it’s the “reimagined” RC. The company has even given the coupe its own hashtag, so you can follow its launch via #SharpYetSmooth, which sounds a little like a tagline for a beer or cider.
Skoda Karoq Scout and Sportline
The Karoq isn’t new, but Paris will be your first chance to see two new trim levels of the SUV formerly known as the Yeti. The SportLine will be offered exclusively with the most powerful 190h 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine, along with 19-inch ‘Vega’ black polished alloys, sports bumpers, black sports seats and stainless steel pedals. Meanwhile, Karoq Scout trades kerb appeal for off-road ability, featuring four-wheel drive as standard and a more rugged appearance.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class saloon
The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class saloon boasts a Cd drag factor of just 0.22 which, when combined with a compact frontal area of 2.19 metres squared, makes it the most aerodynamic new car in the world. You can order your new wind-cheating A-Class now, with deliveries expected in early 2019.
Renault Kadjar
“New Kadjar makes progress in all areas. While respecting traditional SUV design codes, it has a more attractive, stylish look, with dynamic contemporary lines,” says Renault. Makes progress in all areas? This sounds a little like a school report written by your French teacher.
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Mercedes-Benz is waging war on being uncomfortable, with a car that delivers “extraordinary” ride comfort. The new GLE features optional active air suspension that can scan the road ahead to counteract bumps before they are reached. A seven-seat option is a GLE first, but if you can live without the extra seats you’ll enjoy a boot that stretches from 825 litres to over 2,000 litres.
Audi E-tron
With the Jaguar I-Pace hitting the road and the Mercedes EQC poised to make its debut in Paris, Audi is in danger of being left behind in the electric SUV race. The E-tron is the firm’s first all-electric series production model and will offer a driving range of at least 248 miles. It made its world debut in San Francisco ahead of its European debut in Paris.
Mercedes-Benz B-Class
“The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class puts the emphasis on the sports part of Sports Tourer,” says Mercedes, with the new car featuring a sharper exterior, along with greater agility and more comfort than before. With safety functions carried over from the S-Class, the new B-Class should be one of the safest cars in its class.
It promises to be a busy show for the German giant. Naturally, we’ll be there to bring you all the latest news and gossip, straight from the show floor.
The long-running BMW iDrive infotainment system is being phased out: future BMWs, including the new 3 Series revealed at the 2018 Paris Motor Show, will use the BMW Cockpit system instead.
BMW’s new infotainment system is described as more driver-focused than ever. The BMW Cockpit uses all-new software called the BMW Operating System 7.0, and also integrates the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant for the first time.
Saying, ‘Hey BMW’ brings it to life…
There will be three levels of BMW Cockpit:
BMW Live Cockpit
BMW Live Cockpit Plus
BMW Live Cockpit Professional
The top-line Professional system will have a full digital instrument cluster in addition to the centre touchscreen that features on all systems – BMW calls this the Control Display, with the digital cluster being the Info Display.
The Control Display is now fully configurable. It’s based around tiles, and from two to four can be displayed on each configurable ‘page’: up to 10 pages can be configured.
Instead of being optimised around the rotary controller, the new BMW Cockpit’s primary optimisation is for touch, although the iDrive Controller does still remain. Gesture and voice control are also available.
BMW says the new system is much simpler and faster to use. The menu structure is ‘flatter’ than with iDrive, so submenus can be accessed with fewer steps. The setup is also contextual, displaying relevant options where necessary.
If it’s all still a bit overwhelming, the new BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant can help. Say ‘Hey BMW’ prompts it to life, and it will even understand natural language – if you say, ‘take me home’, it will set the navigation for your home address, for example.
You can be pretty casual, promises BMW. If you say, ‘Hey BMW, I’m cold’, it will adjust the cabin temperature. It’s going to continually evolve too, with technical upgrades bringing more preferences and settings.
Speaking of which, BMW’s added Remote Software Upgrade to the new system, for automatic over-the-air updates.
All newly-launched BMWs will get the new BMW Cockpit system. It’s already in production on the BMW X5, 8 Series and Z4, while the 3 Series will be its high-volume showcase when it goes on sale in early 2019.
BMW iDrive: a gamechanger
BMW first introduced iDrive on the 2001 7 Series. At the time, it was revolutionary, replacing multiple dashboard buttons with a multi-function rotary controller and a colour central display.
While not perfect, it nevertheless proved to be a trend-setter, and BMW evolved it over the years into arguably the finest automotive infotainment system of all.
Now, the final iDrive system, ID6, is being replaced by BMW Cockpit and Operating System 7.0. While it will be a new system to learn, BMW’s hoping the intuitiveness of the setup means it won’t be too much of a headache to learn…
There’s no organisation quite like Mission Motorsport. The Forces charity uses cool cars to help returning soldiers rehabilitate and reintegrate. With support from the likes of the Royal Foundation, The Endeavour Fund and Help for Heroes, Mission Motorsport takes a passion for cars and uses it to make a real difference for combat veterans in need.
It’s not all larking about in ATVs and blasting up runways in a supercharged Jaguar, though. We had a chat with founder James Cameron about all things MM. Here’s a potted account of what they have and all the great stuff they do.
A petrolhead toy box
We trundle into an industrial estate not unlike any other. Large, nondescript units line the sides of the road: a body shop, a construction firm, then two liveried Jaguar F-Type SVRs – one in ‘Tron’ style, another covered with poppies. A unit like any other, only complete with a petrolhead toy box to rival the best of them – this was definitely the place. Apparently, it used to contain diggers. Much cooler now with a couple of Mazda MX-5 race cars and a Polaris RZR buggy…
James is unmistakably a man of the Forces. A firm handshake, directness and a room-filling demeanour that has you both at ease and at your fullest attention. He could only have been military-hewn.
We’ll sum him up with a component-parts explanation of his @TankSlider Twitter handle. It involves a snow-covered cobbled expanse and a Challenger tank. That combination resulted in this now-respectable charity director lumbered with three months of extra duties during his time in the Royal Tank Regiment. James is as fun to be around as he is serious about his cause.
What is Mission Motorsport?
“A lot of it is about jobs, but a lot of it is about getting people to find a life-purpose and a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Some need a living, some need a sense of self and vocation”.
The public face of Mission Motorsport is perhaps the smallest facet of the charity itself. The cars, the yearly Race of Remembrance, the events, all have been garnering publicity and interest from prospective patrons since 2012. The magic of Mission Motorsport, however, is what it does for its beneficiaries.
The challenges returning servicemen and women face are difficult to comprehend. What was once home can seem like an alien world, family can seem like strangers, help can feel like a hindrance. Mission Motorsport is about giving returning veterans who have suffered in service – physically or mentally – vocation, purpose and a family.
“The shiny and stupid stuff is to get them off the sofa and get them engaged,” says James. “Then you’ve got them on the hook, so we can go and do things to benefit them in the long run. There’s value in giving someone a day out, but the longer-term impact matters more.”
On-site, there are facilities for training in multiple motoring and engineering skills. One unit has workbenches with gearboxes, engines, differentials and more for dissection, examination and reassembly. A room beside that is where beneficiaries learn engineering theory.
Supported by the Endeavour Fund, Mission Motorsport can deliver up to a level-three diploma in light vehicle engineering. A two-year course for the average college-joiner is usually much less for a service-leaver, due to the experience they can carry over.
Lantra training courses for working and driving off-road in the country are now offered, too. Plus, ex-soldiers can study what James calls the “shinier stuff”: City and Guilds-verified qualifications, which are more academic in focus.
The end result is more than 130 job-starts for people as a direct result of the work Mission Motorsport does. Not only that, the communication MM has with companies like Jaguar Land Rover changes the way they look at a CV. The real value of military experience is translated into a civilian context.
The potential effect is exponential, with thousands of returning servicemen and women getting a proper chance at securing the job they’ve applied for.
More shiny stuff
You could be forgiven for spending the whole day meandering around the MM premises. Around every corner, you find something more ridiculous and amazing – with an equally mad story to match.
We’ve mentioned the F-Types, which are generously loaned by JLR itself. They see regular demonstration and high-speed experience duty at events like VMAX. “That car has done over 180mph for 18 beneficiaries this year” says James of the poppy-liveried SVR.
Inside are two Mk3 Mazda MX-5s, one in sprint racing spec and another in endurance spec. A unit across the way has shelves full of enough spares to rebuild both twice over.
Joining them, there’s an absolutely mad Polaris RZR buggy and, of all things, a pair of Citroen C1s. Of course, this is Mission Motorsport, so these C1s are endurance prepared. One of them has seen action at Spa Francorchamps and three Races of Remembrance.
In between the two units is the Lightning McQueen MX-5, a Bowler Defender, a Land Cruiser brought back from Afghanistan and a pair of Land Rover Discoverys.
Across the way in another unit are some more absolute gems, including a custom Land Rover Defender with a rip-snorting V8 and special controls for amputees, called Fenton. “Fenton, like the Polaris next door, is just about having really good fun. It’s the reaction we look for.”
Behind that is a fully race-ready Honda CR-V – yes, a CR-V – as built by Synchro Motorsport, Honda’s in-house race team. After a beneficiary found employment at Honda, MM was keen to keep Synchro on the grid at the Race of Remembrance and shout about the achievement. With the Type Rs getting too quick for the event, the logical thing to do (sort of) was have them race-prep an SUV. Laugh all you want, but it ended up on the podium at the Mission Motorsport Invitational event.
Right at the back is a car very far from home. A Ford Falcon as used for skidding and practical workshops, it came over, along with a lot of spare parts, back when Ford of Australia shut-up shop.
Less glamorous but no less important, a tatty BMW 3-series Compact also serves as an ECU and diagnostics cadaver for beneficiary training.
There’s also a Lancia Delta in the midst of some wrapping work. The cars are liveried in-house, with car wrapping just one of many motoring and motorsport-focused vocations MM can introduce and train veterans in.
As an example, they sent a couple of beneficiaries out on work experience. One went to Caterham F1 and another to Touring Cars. Instead of coming back, they both got full-time jobs. In a business, that’s lost talent. At Mission Motorsport, that’s something close to job done.
Plans for the future
It wouldn’t be overstating the case to say James has huge plans going forward. The future is as bright as the coming undertaking is Herculean.
With the rise of the EV in the automotive market, demand is increasing for people trained to work with high-voltage systems. That demand, it’s predicted, won’t be met by the existing civilian UK population. What’s been identified isn’t just areas where veterans can contribute, it’s a growing chasm in the job market – one that military high-voltage training (on submarines, tanks and other heavy-duty machines) can readily fill. All that is to come, when MM moves to new and expanded facilities.
Full details of that endeavour will follow soon. For now, we hope we’ve given you an insight into the magic of Mission Motorsport, beyond that famous poppy-liveried Jag.
New research from Kwik Fit reveals exactly what we want in our new cars. And, with a super-hot summer still fresh in our memories, air conditioning tops the list.
Second place also on the list also comes as no surprise: Bluetooth phone connectivity. It seems keeping in contact and connected comes second only to keeping cool.
Seasonal woes are a rolling theme on the list of most desired car features. A heated windscreen, of all things, takes third. We’re clearly mindful of the coming cooler weather and the icy mornings that come with it.
Sat-nav and parking cameras take fourth and fifth respectively. We want to know where we’re going and we don’t want to damage our cars parking up when we get there. Fair enough.
What we’re not so keen on are voice control, sunroofs and head-up displays. Research indicates that 70 percent or more of us wouldn’t stump up the cash for these features.
Our aversion to voice control and head-up displays is interesting as manufacturers are keen on developing and pedalling these at the moment. As for sunroofs? It’s interesting how what was once a desirable feature finds little favour today.
The new 2019 BMW 3 Series marks a giant stride forwards for one of BMW’s most important model lines. It’s easy for brands to play it safe in this sector – witness the latest Audi A4. But then look at the meek market reaction to the A4, and Audi’s subsequent struggle for sales.
The World Car Awards is the biggest automotive awards programme on the planet. Each year, it aims to discover the very finest cars on sale around the world.
The long-running BMW iDrive infotainment system is being phased out: future BMWs, including the new 3 Series revealed at the 
