Classic and retro cars at the Geneva Motor Show

By

-

March 8, 2017

The Geneva Motor Show is all about new cars, right? Maybe so, but we couldn’t help but have our heads turned by some of the older gems on display at Palexpo. It’s only fair that we share some retro and classic metal with you.

Ford Escort RS Cosworth

Doing its best to upstage the new Fiesta ST on the Ford stand is this: the Ford Escort RS Cosworth. In truth it needs no introduction, as it’s one of the most famous and iconic homologation specials of the 1990s. This 1996 example is nearly 20 years old, and yet its rear wing still manages to overshadow some of the supercars on display in Geneva.

Ford Escort

‘H1 FEV’ is a replica of ‘FEV 1H’: the Ford Escort driven to success in the 1970 London to Mexico Rally. It was driven by Hannu Mikkola in the 1993 London to Sydney 25th anniversary rally, as well as the recreation of the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally in 1995. The 1.8-litre BDA-engined Escort was purchased by Ford to replicate the 1970 car.

Ford GT40

A new Ford GT in limited edition ‘66 Heritage Edition livery is on display in Geneva, but there’s nothing quite like the real thing. OK, so this is a replica of the 1966 Ford GT40 Mk2 race car driven to victory at the 1966 Le Mans 24 Hours, but it still beats the modern tribute act.

Ford Focus RS WRC

This Ford Focus RS WRC was built for Colin McRae and Nicky Grist to compete in the 1999 Safari Rally. McRae won, finishing ahead of the Toyota Corolla WRC cars driven by Didier Auriol and Carlos Sainz. This was only the third time the Focus had competed in the WRC, having made its debut at the Monte Carlo Rally the previous month

Ford Fiesta XR2

When the new Ford Fiesta ST sits down to trace its family tree, it will stumble across this: the XR2. In its day, the Fiesta XR2 was a monumental success for Ford even if, dynamically at least, it was overshadowed by the likes of the GTI-badged Golf and 205. The XR2 is a rough diamond geezer from the East End, and we love it.

Monteverdi Safari

You might not have heard of the International Harvester Scout, the off-roader built in Fort Wayne, Indiana. But without it, the achingly cool Monteverdi Safari would never have existed. This was one of the early pioneers of the luxury SUV, with Italian styling and an all-American 7.2-litre V8 engine. Compare and contrast with the SUVs of today and have a little weep. Bentley Ben-whatever.

Monteverdi High Speed 375 S

Another Monteverdi with the potential to upstage many a GT car at the Geneva show is this: the High Speed 375 S. It was launched at the 1977 Frankfurt Motor Show, with a body designed by Peter Monteverdi and built by Frua in Italy. Like the Safari, it was powered by a 7.2-litre Chrysler engine.

Monteverdi High Speed 375 C

The High Speed 375 C was the Swiss firm’s first convertible and was introduced in 1971. You can see this car and more at the Monteverdi Automuseum, which is based at the former production facilities near Basel, Switzerland. It’s dripping in excess and automotive brilliance.

Porsche 901

The Porsche 901 was unveiled at the 1963 Frankfurt Motor Show as a successor to the Porsche 356. With Peugeot holding a patent for a three-digit designation with a zero in the middle, Porsche was forced into renaming it the 911. The rest, as they say, is history.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL

On display on the Brabus Classic stand is this sublime Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing. The elegant light blue paint is paired with beige leather to create one of the most desirable cars in Geneva. It has been subject to a complete Brabus Classic restoration and includes its original Becker Mexico radio-cassette. We understand only 26 cars left the factory in this colour.

Mercedes-Benz 280 SL ‘Pagoda’

This 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SL can only be described as ‘as new’. It was the subject of a complete restoration at the hands of Brabus Classic and, as you’d expect, it’s entirely blemish-free. You know something, this might be our car of the show. Simply stunning.

Gulf Mirage GR8

With Derek Bell and Jacky Ickx at the wheel, this Gulf Mirage GR8 won the 1975 Le Mans 24 Hours. It’s powered by a 3.0-litre Cosworth V8 engine developing some 375hp.

David Brown Speedback GT

OK, so it’s not a classic or retro car, but the David Brown Speedback GT is a classically-styled grand tourer. David Brown Automotive has announced that it will be moving to a brand new manufacturing headquarters at Silverstone. As for the Speedback GT, it’s powered by a 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine and has a top speed of 155mph.

Ruf CTR ‘Yellow Bird’

Ruf Automobile used the Geneva Motor Show to reveal the 2017 CTR, the first car it has designed and built in-house. It is, of course, a tribute to this original ‘Yellow Bird’ of 1987, a car worthy of the ‘iconic’ tag.

Geneva Motor Show: the coolest concept cars

By

Gavin Braithwaite-Smith

-

March 8, 2017

0

It wouldn’t be a motor show without an array of wild and outlandish concept cars. The 2017 Geneva Motor Show is no different, as this gallery of concept cars proves. Some will never see the light of day, while others provide a hint of potential new models. Pick your favourite from this lot.

Mercedes-AMG GT Concept

The Mercedes-AMG GT Concept: a glimpse into the future with one eye on the past. The concept has been unveiled as part of the 50th anniversary of Mercedes-AMG, but is designed to give “an indication of the alternative drive configurations AMG is designing”. To this end, the GT Concept is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged engine and an electric motor to provide a total system output of 804hp.

According to Mercedes-AMG, the GT Concept will sprint to 62mph in “less than three seconds”, but it hasn’t confirmed a top speed. Whether the four-door coupe makes production remains to be seen, but with the new Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo unveiled in Geneva, we wouldn’t be surprised to see this becoming the third member of the AMG GT family.

Infiniti Project Black S

Infiniti is certainly talking a good talk with the Project Black S. Referencing a new Infiniti ‘performance grade’ and a close collaboration with with Renault Sport Formula One Team is guaranteed to pique the interest of any self-respecting petrolhead. And besides, it’s high time Infiniti delivered a car we can all get behind.

Nissan’s posh arm is investigating the potential for F1-style hybrid technology in a production car, with an energy recovery system (ERS) that could contribute a 25% increase in power for the new 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbocharged engine. As a bonus, the ERS could improve acceleration and eliminate turbo lag. An F1-inspired coupe: where do we sign? Infiniti, do the right thing.

Citroen C-Aircross

Dare we suggest that we’re a little underwhelmed by the Citroen C-Aircross. It’s not that’s uncool, it’s just that the new C3 supermini has raised the bar sufficiently enough for us to look at this concept with a sense of ‘meh’. Whatever that means.

Oh, sure, the standard motor show trinkets are there: suicide doors, cameras for door mirrors and ‘showy’ 18-inch rims to name but three, it’s just that we’re not bowled over by the C-Aircross. There are, however, reasons to be cheerful. Firstly, it highlights just how far Citroen has come in recent years. And, secondly, it previews the next-generation C3 Picasso. Good news.

Jaguar I-Pace

For now, the Jaguar I-Pace remains a concept, but the model on show in Geneva looks as production ready as you’re likely to get. It also shows off a new Photon Red paintjob.

It’s the first time the I-Pace has been seen in Europe and it previews Jaguar’s first all-electric vehicle, set to hit the streets in 2018. Jaguar is already taking orders for the Tesla Model X rival, with one outlet claiming that 350 deposits have already been received.

Peugeot Instinct

If Peugeot is to be believed, this is what an autonomous future looks like. The Instinct is a 300hp plug-in hybrid with both ‘Drive’ and ‘Autonomous’ driving modes, with Peugeot claiming that an ‘Internet of Things’ platform will learn the driver’s lifestyle.

The seats can be adjusted individually, allowing the occupant to select the position most suited to them – upright to drive or horizontal to… er… sleep. Yes, sleep. You’ll also find a so-called ‘chatbot’, a speech-driven PA offering a vast array of services.

Bentley EXP 12 Speed 6e

You might hate the Bentley Bentayga, and – as Bobby Brown might say – that’s your prerogative. But if Bentley sells a sufficient number of the boutique SUVs, it’ll be free to explore new ideas such as this: the EXP 12 Speed 6e.

In true grand tourer style, Bentley claims that an electric vehicle with a ‘Flying B’ perched on the bonnet must offer sufficient range to be able to drive between London and Paris or Milan and Monaco on a single charge. Ideal, if you’re planning to race a train from the Carlton Hotel in Cannes to the Conservative Club in London.

Honda NeuV

NeuV – pronounced ‘new-vee’ – stands for New Electric Urban Vehicle, and it’s Honda’s vision of an electric future. Not only can it learn things about its driver – stop picking your nose at the wheel – it also takes advantage of the fact that privately-owned vehicles sit idle for 96% of the time.

In other words, the NeuV doubles up as automated ride sharing vehicle when the owner is not using the car. It has the potential to collect and drop off customers at local destinations, even selling energy back to the grid. Cool concept, this.

SsangYong XAVL

Remember when you laughed at that Korean carmaker with the funny name? Laugh no more, because SsangYong is on a roll, as demonstrated by the really-rather-good Tivoli. The XAVL previews a next generation seven-seat SUV, featuring seven independent seats and a huge amount of interior space.

According to SsangYong, the eXciting Authentic Vehicle Long draws inspiration from the “iconic” Korando, meaning it might preview a replacement for the value-driven SUV.

Hyundai FE Fuel Cell

There are those who believe that it’s hydrogen and not electric that represents the future of sustainable motoring. For now, the infrastructure isn’t there to support a fleet of hydrogen-powered cars, but the likes of Honda, Toyota and Hyundai are at the forefront of development in the sector.

The FE Fuel Cell is part of Hyundai’s plan to deliver 14 or more new environmentally-focused models by the year 2020 and has the potential to deliver a range of up to 500 miles from a single tank.

Mercedes-Benz Concept X-Class

You’re unlikely to find a Concept X-Class parked outside a branch of Wickes, as Mercedes-Benz is pitching this to a more “urban lifestyle” audience. The five-seat pick-up previews the production version, set to launch later this year.

Underneath, the X-Class is little more than a Nissan Navara, but has been ‘poshed-up’ for urban lifestyle types. You can expect a suitably inflated price tag as Mercedes-Benz seeks to fill yet another niche. Will there be an AMG version? We wouldn’t bet against it…

Fittipaldi EF7 Vision Gran Turismo by Pininfarina

The Fittipaldi EF7 is a concept car you can drive, at least in a virtual sense. It’s the latest in a long line of Vision Gran Turismo cars, coming to a Sony PlayStation near you soon.

It’s the result of a collaboration between Emerson Fittipaldi, Pininfarina and engineering firm HWA, and is said to fulfil Fittipaldi’s vision of building a car with “fierce track-racing capabilities” for drivers of all skill levels.

Renault Zoe e-sport

A case of saving the best ‘til last? The Zoe e-sport is the electric car you’ve always dreamed of, drawing upon Renault’s experience in Formula E. It’s packing a 455hp electric punch, enough to propel the Zoe to 62mph in just 3.2 seconds.

Use of carbonfibre and kevlar keeps the weight down, while a lowered ride height, wider tracks and four-wheel drive should provide exceptional cornering ability. Double-wishbone suspension, 20-inch rims, Ohlins dampers, Recaro seats and Formula E-style controls complete the transformation from humdrum to hero. Renault, we have two words: build it.

New SUVs and crossovers revealed at Geneva

By

Gavin Braithwaite-Smith

-

March 8, 2017

0

Whether they are new cars ready for launch, concepts offering a vision of what’s to come or updates of current models, SUVs and crossovers are everywhere at Geneva 2017.

Arguably, Jaguar and Land Rover have the hottest stands at the show, with the world premiere of the Range Rover Velar and the first sighting in Europe of Jaguar’s revolutionary all-electric SUV concept: the I-Pace.

If it’s luxury you’re after, look no further than the most opulent version of the Bentley Bentayga, or the monster that is the Mercedes-Maybach G65 4×4 Landaulet. There really is something for everyone at the Geneva Motor Show.

Nissan Qashqai

Europe’s most popular crossover just had a facelift. Due to hit UK roads later this year, the Nissan Qashqai now sports a V-shaped grille at the front, along with new bumper and headlamp designs, plus a reshaped bonnet.

The new Qashqai doesn’t just look better, it has more of a quality feel. Propilot autonomous driving tech gives it the ability to steer, accelerate and brake itself within a single lane on motorways.

Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace

VW’s acclaimed Tiguan has grown into a full seven-seater. On sale in the UK this summer, there’s an extra row of seats, thanks to 109mm added to the wheelbase – stretching the car by 215mm overall.

Despite the stretch, the Tiguan Allspace doesn’t look out of proportion. What’s more, it now boasts 760 litres of luggage capacity (up 140 litres) with the front two rows of seats in place. With all the rear seats down, there’s a van-like 1,920 litres available.

Bentley Bentayga Mulliner

Meet the new Bentley Bentayga Mulliner: “the most exquisitely appointed luxury SUV ever created”. Bentley’s in-house bespoke division, Mulliner, has given the Bentayga a makeover to create a range-topping, uber-sumptuous sports utility vehicle.

High-end features on the Bentley Bentayga Mulliner include ‘Duo Tone’ paintwork, Mulliner 22-inch Paragon seven-spoke wheels with floating centres, a bespoke Mulliner bottle cooler, exclusive Ombré burr walnut veneer, plus ‘My Mood’, which allows occupants to choose from 15 different interior lighting colours, while also adjusting the brightness in doors, armrests and footwells.

Vauxhall Crossland X

A world premiere for the latest crossover from Vauxhall/Opel, which is now part of PSA Europe (Peugeot-Citroen). Effectively replacing the Meriva MPV, it will slot below the Mokka X in terms of size and price.

Billed as an urban crossover, rather than an SUV, Vauxhall reckons the Crosland X “has a firm family focus, with a Tardifs-like cabin providing high degrees of practicality and flexibility”.

Range Rover Velar

The sleek Velar is Geneva’s SUV star. Slotting into the Range Rover line-up between the Evoque and Sport, it’s an obvious rival to the Porsche Macan. And indeed its cousin, the Jaguar F-Pace.

Priced from £44,830 to £85,450, the British-built Range Rover Velar will go on sale from July in the UK and more than 170 markets worldwide. Combining Land Rover’s legendary all-terrain ability with an upmarket cabin and lashings of tech, it promises to be the most driver-focused Range Rover ever.

Subaru XV

The wraps are off Subaru’s next generation XV, which is due to go on sale in the UK early in 2018. Looking like an evolution of the current car, it’s certainly more appealing to the eye and should bring the model into the mainstream.

Built on a new global platform, just like the new Impreza, Subaru claims the XV will have significantly enhanced refinement, safety, ride comfort, and agility. Needless to say, symmetrical four-wheel drive will be standard on all models.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Plugging a gap between the ASX and Outlander, Mitsubishi’s new Qashqai-rival doesn’t look as flash as the teased design studies suggested, but it will freshen up the Japanese company’s range.

With its distinctive, wedged profile, the Eclipse Cross will certainly stand out when it hits UK roads early in 2018. Its most unusual design element is at the back, where a high-mounted strip of rear lamps divides the upper and lower segments of the rear window.

Jaguar I-Pace

A European premiere for Jaguar’s all-electric SUV concept – now in vibrant Photon Red. The I-Pace isn’t due to go on sale in the UK until 2018, but this show car looks pretty much ready for production.

The I-Pace’s looks seem to divide opinion, but there’s no doubting that it stands out from the crowd – those massive 23-inch wheels are something else. Two electric motors, producing a combined 400hp, power the car, allowing it to sprint to 62mph in around four seconds, with a claimed range of 300 miles.

Mercedes-Maybach G65 4×4² Landaulet

Mercedes-Benz is giving Range Rover and Bentley something to think about with its ultra-luxurious all-terrain Mercedes-Maybach SUV – a landaulet version of the legendary G-Wagen. In other words, a covered cab with a retractable fabric roof at the back.

Powered by a new twin-turbo 6.0-litre V12, the Landaulet is likely to become the world’s most expensive sport utility vehicle, with a rumoured price of around £400,000. Just 99 will be built, but sadly this opulent monster is not due to be sold in the UK. For the record, it is 5.3m long, 2.2m tall and has more than half a metre of ground clearance.

Audi Q8 Sport Concept

Based on the Q8 Concept first revealed at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2017, the Q8 Sport Concept is more sporty – and very orange. It combines a 3.0-litre V6 and a mild hybrid system (a world first) that enables it to deliver a handy 476hp “with the efficiency of a four-cylinder”.

Perhaps the most obvious visual change is that Audi’s signature ‘singleframe’ grille design has ditched the vertical bars and horizontal slats for a more pleasing honeycomb design. Capable of 0-62mph in just 4.7 seconds, it has a top speed of 170mph.

Skoda Kodiaq Scout

A rugged version of the Skoda Kodiaq has been unveiled at Geneva. With seating for up to seven and the largest interior and boot space in its class, the Scout also boasts off-road ability thanks to all-wheel drive, hill-hold and hill-descent control, plus a ground clearance of 194mm.

Apart from its slightly raised ride height, the Scout looks pretty similar to the standard Kodiaq, with only tinted windows, silver colour details and special 19-inch-alloy wheels emphasising the visual differences.

SsangYong XAVL

South Korean brand SsangYong has previewed its XAVL seven-seater SUV concept at Geneva. An eventual rival to the Land Rover Discovery, Kia Sorento and Hyundai Sante Fe, its awkward moniker is derived from “eXciting Authentic Vehicle Long SUV”.

The angular show car looks like a work in progress, or a larger, less attractive version of SsangYong’s Tivoli. Inside, there’s plenty of connectivity, while a 10.25-inch infotainment screen dominates the centre console. Expect to see the final version on the road by 2020.

Citroen C-Aircross Concept

Citroen’s new SUV concept looks like an overgrown C3 and is expected to appear in showrooms as soon as 2018. Effectively replacing the C3 Picasso in the line-up, it will take on the likes of the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and Audi Q2 in the highly-competitive compact crossover category.

Rear-hinged rear passenger doors are a stand-out feature on Citroen’s concept, though it has to manage with just three Airbumps on each side. A 12-inch touchscreen dominates the centre console, while the C-Aircross also makes use of Grip Control for extra traction when soft-roading.

Volvo XC60

The long-awaited next-generation XC60 crossover takes a bow at Geneva. It’s a good-looking car that pays homage to its best-selling predecessor, while sharing many design cues with its big brother, the XC90.

Naturally, the new XC60 will be one of the safest cars ever, so it’s packed with tech. However, just like the XC90, there will be a T8 Twin Engine petrol plug-in hybrid version capable of reaching 62mph from standstill in just 5.3 seconds.

DS7 Crossback

The first SUV from DS could be the car that gets the till ringing for Peugeot-Citroen’s standalone premium brand. Just as the F-Pace has accelerated Jaguar sales, the stylish DS7 Crossback should put DS on the map.

Rivalling established SUVs such as the Range Rover Evoque and Audi Q3, the spacious DS7 Crossback is fully connected and packed with tech. The interior is dominated by two 12-inch touchscreen displays. Outside, the front of the car features a dramatic diamond-effect grille and distinctive jewel-like LED headlights.

Mazda CX-5

First revealed at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show, Mazda’s next-generation CX-5 makes its European debut at Geneva. Always a good-looking crossover, the new model is now longer, lower and sexier.

The CX-5 is hugely important to Mazda. Not only is it the company’s best-selling model in Europe, it’s also sold in more than 120 countries and represents around a quarter of Mazda’s global sales. The new model delivers “responsive performance” while also “prioritising passenger comfort”.

Renault Captur

Renault’s best-selling compact crossover gets a welcome mid-life makeover inside and out. The most notable exterior change is the updated front end, which is now similar to its big brother, the Kadjar. There are also new skid plates, front and rear, plus three new wheel options.

Three new colours now join the updated Captur’s palette, meaning that 36 different combinations are now available. The new Captur, which goes on sale in the UK this summer, looks especially good with two-tone paint and a fixed glass roof.

McLaren 720S is our star of the 2017 Geneva Motor Show

By

John Redfern

-

March 7, 2017

0

The opening act for the second-generation of McLaren’s mid-range ‘Super Series’ of cars, and the replacement for the current 650S Coupe. It’s a big deal for McLaren, as this represents the core of the supercar range it offers, and comes with great expectations as the brand develops further. With more power, a new carbon fibre chassis, improved aerodynamics, and a bold new look the Woking-based firm has gone all out with the 720S.

The spec

Mid-engined and with rear-wheel drive, the 720S is a classic in terms of supercar setups. A carbon fibre chassis, featuring the excitingly named ‘Monocage II’ structure, surrounds a new twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine and seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. In true McLaren style, progress has also been made on enhanced carbon-ceramic brakes, revised suspension, and even greater steering feel.

How fast is it?

Fast. Oh, so very fast. As the name suggests, there is 720hp produced from the new engine, along with 568lb-ft of torque. With less weight to move than the outgoing 650S, it makes the 720S astonishingly rapid. 0-62mph is done in just 2.9 seconds, 0-124mph in 7.8 seconds, whilst the top speed runs all the way to 212mph. Thankfully the 720S features 30% more downforce than the old 650S, despite increased aerodynamic efficiency over its predecessor.

The tech

Where do we start? From F1-inspired ‘McLaren Brake Steer’ that reduces understeer by slowing the inside rear wheel, to ‘Variable Drift Control’ which allows the driver to set preferred levels of oversteer angles, the 720S is packed with technology. In fact, it’s actually university educated, with new car control software based on algorithms developed with the University of Cambridge. Gearshifts have also been improved with new software, allowing the 720S to change cogs quicker and harder than even the 675LT.

The interior

McLaren reckons this is their most luxurious and sophisticated interior to date, with improved ergonomics and a greater sense of space. However, the big party piece of the 720S is the new ‘Folding Driver Display’ instrument panel that can flip between being a full TFT display, or a slimline infobar with minimal details. An 8” central touchscreen for adjusting multimedia and car settings is now more driver focussed, with revisions to the telemetry system for recording your track day antics.

How much?

Despite all the new technology and improvements, McLaren reckons prices will only be 5% higher than the current 650S equivalent. That should mean starting at around £205,000, and rising rapidly should you decided to pick options such as super lightweight forged alloy wheels or extra carbon fibre trim. It does at least come with a three-year warranty.

The rivals

If you’re looking for the ultimate mid-engined supercar, in this price range your choices are going to include the Ferrari 488 GTB, although it lags behind with only 670hp. The Lamborghini Huracán is also a contender, whilst the Audi R8 and Porsche 911 GT3 RS offer up cheaper alternatives.

On-sale date

Potential customers have already had their own private preview of the 720S, with first deliveries due in May of this year. So you can get on the phone to your local McLaren dealership immediately, once you’ve picked from a range of 20 different colours, or created your own custom hue.

The buzz

Any new supercar brings with it a buzz of excitement, but the dramatic new styling of the 720S and the comprehensive overhaul under the skin make it a big deal. Those looks will undoubtedly be the biggest talking point.

First look: our verdict

With the latest generation of the Sports Series, McLaren faces the challenge of avoiding the ‘awkward second album’ syndrome after delivering a hit with the 650S. Potentially divisive styling aside, the 720S features an array of new technological improvements and updates that will make it hard to ignore, and potentially hard to beat.

New Honda Civic Type R revealed in Geneva

By

John Redfern

-

March 7, 2017

0

Honda’s latest version of the Civic hot hatch: now into its fifth iteration. Although the previous-generation car seems to have only just been released, Honda’s made a big effort to have a quick version of the latest Civic available early. Most importantly, this new Type R is set to be exported from Honda’s UK factory across the globe, including to the USA for the first time. Previously the North American market had been denied the ultimate Civic.

The spec

Powering the front wheels is a revised version of the 2.0-litre VTEC turbo engine from the last Type R. Power has been increased by 10hp to 320hp, whilst torque has remained the same at 295lb ft. A six-speed manual gearbox is the only transmission on offer, but it does have the ability to match revs for you.

How fast is it?

There are no official figures yet, but safe to say it will be quicker than the outgoing car. That means 0-62mph in less than 5.7 seconds, and the potential for a top speed even higher than 167mph. There will be a new Nürburgring lap time set, too.

The tech

The technology that really makes a difference on the new Civic Type R relates to its crazy and complex aerodynamic styling. Honda claims the new car has class-leading balance, lift and drag, helping with high speed stability. This includes the dramatic rear wing, vortex generators built into the roofline, plus a race-car-like smooth underbody.

The interior

Dark and brooding is the interior theme Honda has gone for, with a set of bright red sports seats illuminating the gloom. There are also dashes of carbon fibre trim and a lightweight aluminium gear knob for good measure. Drivers get a choice of driving modes, with Comfort, Sport, or intense ‘R+’ mode on offer.

How much?

No prices have been announced yet, but the new Type R is expected to cost slightly more than the £30,000 price of the outgoing model in the UK. We expect global pricing will also be competitive.

The rivals

The hot hatch market is ultra-competitive at present, and the new Type R will face a range of opponents. The Volkswagen Golf R and Ford Focus RS will be two of the toughest challengers, along with a recently revised Seat Leon Cupra 300 and a Renaultsport version of the new Megane.

On-sale date

Production of the new Civic Type R is set to start in the summer of 2017, at Honda’s UK factory in Swindon. Exact dates to start harassing your local dealership about placing an order will be confirmed soon, along with prices.

The buzz

The latest Type R is already generating a bigger buzz than the three exhaust tailpipes it has fitted. By taking the already crazy outgoing car, adding more power and revising the aerodynamics, this Type R will set internet message boards alight.

First look: our verdict

We were a little unsure about the styling of the latest Civic hatchback, with its propensity for multiple angles. The Type R takes this approach and multiplies it, but it makes more sense on an aggressive hot hatch. If Honda can keep the pricing competitive, it will undoubtedly find success.

Confirmed: PSA Group is buying Vauxhall for £1.9bn

By

Andrew Brady

-

March 6, 2017

0

PSA Group has confirmed it’s buying General Motors’ European brands, Vauxhall and Opel, as part of a €2.2 billion (£1.9 billion) deal.

The French owners of Citroen and Peugeot has revealed this morning that the rumoured sell-off was going ahead, making it the second-largest car firm in Europe (behind Volkswagen Group), with a 17% market share.

Vauxhall Corsa fires investigation launched

“We are proud to join forces with Opel/Vauxhall and are deeply committed to continuing to develop this great company and accelerating its turnaround,” said PSA’s chairman of the managing board, Carlos Tavares.

“We respect all that Opel/Vauxhall’s talented people have achieved as well as the company’s fine brands and strong heritage. We intend to manage PSA and Opel/Vauxhall capitalising on their respective brand identities. Having already created together winning products for the European market, we know that Opel/Vauxhall is the right partner. We see this as a natural extension of our relationship and are eager to take it to the next level.”

Since it emerged that the car companies were in talks on February 14, speculation about the future of Vauxhall’s Luton and Ellesmere Port branches has been rife – with many fearing job losses as PSA attempts to streamline operations.

The company has yet to speak out on the future of the UK factories, which employ around 4,500 people, but Tavares added this morning: “We are confident that the Opel/Vauxhall turnaround will significantly accelerate with our support, while respecting the commitments made by GM to the Opel/Vauxhall employees.”

It’s understood that Ellesmere Port has agreements to make the Vauxhall Astra until 2021, while production of the Vauxhall Vivaro van is contracted to be built in Luton until 2025. It’s rumoured that PSA Group, which is part-owned by the French government, would rather move production to France to avoid the risk of trade tariffs once the UK leaves the EU.

A press conference will be held in Paris later this morning where we’ll find out further information.

SMMT warns that ‘anti-diesel agenda’ will hit falling CO2 emissions

By

Andrew Brady

-

March 2, 2017

0

The average CO2 emissions produced by new cars fell to a record low of 120.1g/km last year – but the trade body behind the data has issued a stern warning that this could change in 2017 as diesel resentment builds and motorists buy more petrol cars.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has said that the shift towards diesel cars, which emit around 20% less CO2 than the equivalent petrol car on average, is partly responsible for average new car CO2 emissions falling by more than a third since 2000.

Record new car sales in 2016 – but Brexit could hit industry hard in 2017

While diesel car registrations hit a record high in the UK last year, diesel’s market share fell by 0.8%. And these ‘tremendous’ gains could be wiped out as many drivers look to swap back to petrol models following Volkswagen’s diesel emissions scandal and increasing NOx pollution levels in urban areas, says the SMMT.

“The automotive industry has some of the most challenging CO2 reduction targets of any sector and continues to deliver reductions as it has for nearly two decades,” said SMMT chief executive, Mike Hawes.

The organisation is concerned that new VED (vehicle excise duty – car tax) rules to be introduced on April 1 will wipe out incentives for motorists to buy ultra-low emission vehicles such as electric, hybrid or hydrogen-powered cars.

Under the new system, two thirds (66%) of the alternative fuel vehicles currently eligible for free road tax will be subject to an annual charge of £130. Those with a list price of more than £40,000 will be subject to a further £310 surcharge for the first five years.

Hawes added: “For this positive trend to continue, modern low emission diesels and AFVs such as plug-ins, hydrogen and hybrids must be encouraged with long term incentives. Turning our back on any of these will undermine progress on CO2 targets as well as air quality objectives. The UK has a successful track record in encouraging these new technologies but this must be maintained through a consistent approach to fiscal and other incentives.”

Official: Alpine A110 sports car revealed

By

Richard Aucock

-

February 28, 2017

0

Renault has officially revealed the new Alpine A110 sports car, ahead of its global debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show next week. The new production car is the latest step in the rebirth of the famous Renault-owned Alpine brand.

In pictures: a brief history of Alpine

No technical details are being revealed at this stage, but Renault has confirmed the new Alpine A110 will be constricted fully from aluminium – both the platform and upper body are made from it, for “optimum weight saving and agility”. All part of being an authentic ‘Berlinette’, says the brand.

More specs will be revealed during the press conference at Geneva, scheduled for 1215h UK time on 7 March, meaning we can for now instead savour the images of Renault’s new sports car rival to the Porsche 718 Cayman and Audi TT. It’s clear from the images this is going to be a compact car; the front end has the classic Alpine face and its curves are a nice mix of modern and traditional: we love how the tail gently falls away, for example, and the wraparound rear screen is neat.

There’s some smart detailing at work. The classic Alpine round driving lamps have been reinterpreted with modern LEDs. The French flag in the rear pillar is cute and, behind it, cooling inlets for the engine reside. Also note the Alpine logo on the front wing and, at the rear, what looks like a substantial diffuser just poking out the bottom of the bumper.

As for its sports car credentials, it’ll be a mid-engined design, with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, so hopes are high. There’s talk of 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds plus the sort of handling you expect from a Porsche rival – expect it to be more driver-focused than a TT, for example. Remember, the crack Renault Sport team will have been working hard on this…

We like the fact Renault has stuck with the traditional A110 name too, harking back to the 1961-1977 original. There was speculation this new car would carry the A120 name, but today’s announcement debunks that: A110 it is.

This car has had something of a complicated birth. It was back in 2012 when Renault first announced it was teaming up with British sports car maker Caterham to co-develop a new model. By 2014, Caterham was out, leaving Alpine to go it alone. In 2016, we saw the Alpine Vision concept, confirming they were making good progress: finally, at Geneva 2017, we’ll get to see the final production car.

2017 Range Rover Velar CONFIRMED – the fourth Range Rover is go!

By

Richard Aucock

-

February 22, 2017

0

Range Rover Velar Teaser Image — Range Rover Velar revealed for the first time

The new Range Rover Velar will go on sale later this year, Land Rover has confirmed, slotting into the gap between the Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Sport, and finally giving the British firm a direct rival to the Porsche Macan.

Revealed in a teaser image, the new Range Rover Velar is being described boldly by Land Rover chief design officer Gerry McGovern. “We call the Velar the most avant garde Range Rover,” he says.

“It brings a new dimension of glamour, modernity and elegance to the brand. The Range Rover Velar changes everything.”

Likely powered by the JLR 2.0-litre turbo petrol and turbodiesel engine range, plus the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 from the F-Type, Land Rover will be determined to give the Velar (pronounced ‘vel-ar’) a sporty on-road drive. Jaguar has proven this can be done with the F-Pace and Solihull will want to make a similar impact.

The teaser shot shows broad shoulders, an aero-tuned roof spoiler and what looks like a diffuser hidden in the rear metal kick plate. Inside, we can see the latest widescreen JLR InControl Touch Pro infotainment system, plus a configurable set of electronic instruments.

The full global debut of the new Range Rover Velar will take place on 1 March; it will later go on show at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.

As for the Velar name, this is a nod to the firm’s heritage. Back in the 1960s, engineers concealed the first 26 Range Rover prototypes by sticking Velar badges on them. It comes from ‘velaris’ in Latin: to veil or cover.

British drivers are risking £27m in fines over this minor fault

By

Andrew Brady

-

February 10, 2017

0

A freedom of information investigation has revealed that 2.5 million vehicles failed their MOTs for illegal tyres last year – while police hit almost 9,000 drivers with fines for defective rubber.

If you’re caught driving with less than 1.6mm of tread, you could face a penalty of up to £2,500 and three points on your licence – per tyre.

Police chief fined £586 for driving police car with bald tyres
The 5-minute guide to car tyres
More car news on Motoring Research

The Confused.com investigation found that 10,766 endorsements were handed out for defective tyres in 2016. Multiplying this by the maximum £2,500 penalty, motorists could be risking nearly £27 million in fines for not checking their tyres.

While driving with bald tyres can have a dangerous effect on a car’s handling and stopping distance, especially in the wet, the research also revealed that drivers often aren’t in a rush to get their tyres changed.

Out of those who were found to have illegal tyres, more than a third (34%) did not get their tyres replaced straight away because they didn’t have the time, while almost a quarter (24%) said they couldn’t afford new tyres.

A further quarter (23%) admitted to driving with dangerous tyres because the garage could not fit them in sooner.

Confused.com’s motoring editor, Amanda Stretton, said: “It’s pretty shocking to find out that 2.5 million drivers have failed their MOTs as a result of not checking their tyres regularly.

“We understand that arranging to have your tyres changed seems like a hassle, and we know some drivers are concerned about how big a hole it’s going to burn in their pockets. But motorists need to ask themselves if it’s really worth risking three points on their license and enormous fines of up to £2,500 per tyre.”

The website has launched a new tyre tool that lets drivers compare the cost of tyres.

“Confused.com’s tyre tool helps to lower the cost of buying new tyres by allowing you to compare prices in advance,” added Stretton, “so there are no nasty surprises once you get to the garage. Plus, you can pay on the day and the cost of fitting and disposal of your old tyres is completely included in the price.”

ALSO READ

New 2017 BMW 5 Series: everything you need to know

Last blast: a fast farewell to the Renaultsport Megane

Skoda Kodiaq SUV revealed at 2016 Paris Motor Show