GENEVA - Renault imprves the already awesome Renaultsport Clio 220 Trophy.

• Power increased by 10 per cent to 220hp
• ‘Torque Boost’ function raises peak torque by 40Nm to 280Nm
• Refined EDC transmission delivers up to 50 per cent faster shifts
• Larger turbo, new air intake and revised exhaust system
• Stop & Start helps to reduce emissions by 6g/km
• Lower and stiffer Trophy chassis
• Quicker steering rack
• Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres
• Revised sports seats with integrated head rests
• R.S. Drive system with three driving modes
• Special edition version goes on sale in the UK in the Summer

Renaultsport have unveiled a special edition version of the Clio Renaultsport at the Geneva Motor Show – the Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy EDC.

Following in the slipstream of other Trophy models such as the 2005 Clio Renaultsport 182 Trophy, the Mégane Renaultsport 265 Trophy and the current Mégane Renaultsport 275 Trophy the Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy has been finely honed by Renaultsport’s passionate engineers to add even sharper handling, improved driving characteristics and increased performance coupled with exclusivity and distinctive styling.

The Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy is due to go on sale in the summer of 2015 and will offer a number of enhancements including increased power and torque with Stop & Start technology and reduced CO₂emissions. A refined EDC transmission, quicker steering, a lower and stiffer chassis and upgraded tyres will make Renault’s hot hatch even hotter.

220 TROPHY: A CLIO RENAULTSPORT THAT’S EVEN MORE POTENT IN EVERY AREA

Engine

Thanks to revised engine mapping, the 220 Trophy now has 10 per cent more power and up to an extra 40Nm of torque. It also benefits from a larger turbo, an air intake designed to minimise pressure losses and a revised exhaust system to accommodate the latest Euro6 catalytic converter (and minimise back pressure losses).

• Maximum power has been increased to 220hp at 6,250rpm (up 20hp)
• Maximum torque rises to 260Nm (a gain of 20Nm)
• ‘Torque Boost’ feature in fourth and fifth gears raises peak torque to 280Nm (a gain of 40Nm)
• Maximum revs increase from 6,500rpm to 6,800rpm
• Complying with Euro6 emissions standards, the car’s CO₂ output improves by 6g/km to 138g/km and also drops down a VED band

Refined EDC transmission

• Gear shifts are now up to 40 per cent faster in ‘Normal’ and ‘Sport’ modes and 50 per cent faster in ‘Race’ mode thanks to software recalibration
• 30 per cent reduction in steering wheel paddle travel for more immediate changes
• Earlier downshifts, for example under heavy braking on track, are permitted by optimised software calibration and the raised rev limit
• ‘Sport’ mode is now more flexible with gearshift change patterns more reactive to current driving style
• A Stop & Start system works in ‘Normal’ mode but is deactivated in ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ modes.

Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy retains the R.S. Drive system that allows one powertrain to have three different behaviours: Normal, Sport and Race.  R.S. Drive also adds Launch Control and the ability to perform multiple down shifts at once by keeping the paddle held.  Race mode is fully manual only, has the fastest shift times, no ‘creep’ function and will not change up or down without intervention. 

A lower, stiffer Trophy chassis

The Clio is lower by 20mm at the front, 10mm at the rear. Firmer shock absorbers, and revised springs (40 per cent stiffer at the rear), have been fitted and are coupled to the existing motorsport-derived hydraulic bump stops.

Ultra-quick steering

A new, faster rack (with ratio reduced from 14.5:1 to 13.2:1) makes steering even more precise and incredibly direct – the best system on the market.

Tyres

The Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy EDC is fitted with high-performance Michelin Pilot Super Sport 205/40R18 rubber.

IMMEDIATELY RECOGNISABLE…AND SEDUCTIVE

A sporting stance

• Frost White, a new and distinctive Renault i.d. matt body colour with a gloss black roof and rear spoiler, has been added to the range alongside Glacier White, Diamond Black, Flame Red and Liquid Yellow
• 18-inch ‘Radical’ wheels with black inserts and diamond-effect facings
• ‘Trophy’ badging on the front blade, door mouldings and individually-numbered door sills

Equipment tailored to enthusiasts

• Embossed leather steering wheel
• ‘Trophy’ interior pack: Heated leather sports seats with integral head rests, plus carbon-look air-vent surrounds, door handles and gear lever base plate. The air-vent inserts are now in satin chrome rather than anodised red.
• Optional Renaultsport Monitor on-board telemetry system. Potent and fun, its many features include a setting that gives the driver five different levels of throttle pedal sensitivity.

The Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy EDC is a numbered special edition that provides value for money in performance terms. It is aimed at the most demanding customers, such as track-day enthusiasts and those who appreciate the cutting-edge manner of Renaultsport’s unrivalled expertise.

The Clio Renaultsport 220 Trophy EDC will first go on sale in Europe, from June 2015, before being released in 10 other markets.

NISSAN #2 - The new Pulsar gets a new 190PS Turbocharged engine to boost performance.

• 190PS (140 kW) turbocharged engine combines sharp performance with exceptional economy and emissions
• Max torque of 240Nm and excellent flexibility at low engine speeds
• All 1.6 DIG-T models feature unique styling enhancements
• Unique alloy wheels and special interior trim fitted as standard
• CO₂ emissions from just 138g/km
• Available from Spring 2015

Nissan is set to add a sporting twist to its new Pulsar range with the arrival of a third engine option – a 190PS 1.6 DIG-T. The new turbocharged petrol unit will join the Pulsar range from Spring 2015 and features a host of additional design and material upgrades that reflect its sporting potential.

The sportiest and most powerful Pulsar to date further broadens Nissan’s appeal as the brand returns to the popular C-segment. Utilising the same design and engineering approach that has made Nissan the undisputed leader in the crossover market, the DIG-T 190 model highlights the brand’s passion for advanced technology and original design.

Developing 190PS (140kW) at 5,600rpm, the 1.6 DIG-T engine is one of the most advanced in the sector, with a maximum torque output of 240Nm from 1,600rpm (up to 5,200rpm). Engineered to provide exceptional flexibility at low engine speeds, it delivers performance that outshines rivals units with six gear transmissions. 

While the 1.6 DIG-T engine has the firepower to match larger engines, its fuel consumption and emissions are of that of a much smaller unit – a major advantage of Nissan’s downsizing philosophy. Creating ‘more with less’ has been a Nissan priority for a number of years, and the Pulsar DIG-T 190 is the perfect example of why. Despite its athletic performance, it returns 6.0 l/100km* and has CO₂ emissions from just 138g/km.** The engine is fully EU6 compliant and features a host of technical innovations, including low friction technologies and cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation.

And it’s not just its performance that sets the Pulsar DIG-T 190 apart from the rest of the range. Nissan has developed a package of styling features designed to complement the newcomer’s sporting nature. Available in Acenta and Tekna trim grades, all DIG-T 190 models feature a number of upgraded items as standard. These include; bespoke alloy wheels (17-inch as standard on Acenta and 18-inch for Tekna) finished in a diamond cut two-tone black and silver and a unique, sportier headlamp design which comes with a black finish to the bezel which provides a greater contrast to the chrome finished projector.

At the rear, a chrome exhaust finisher is fitted as standard, further enhancing the sporting feel.

Inside, the 1.6 DIG-T powered models include a unique trim finisher that extends to the full width of the dashboard, plus distinctive white stitching on the three-spoke steering wheel and leather seats (Tekna models only). Alloy sports pedals complete the interior design package.

The Nissan Pulsar DIG-T 190 will be available across European markets from Spring 2015.

*subject to homologation

**emissions depend on the wheel size

New Fiesta ST3 expands the popularity of the ST series.

Ford has launched a new flagship version of its multi-award-winning Ford Fiesta ST.

The new Fiesta ST3 builds on the specification of the ST-2 by adding desirable features including:

• Keyless entry
• Sony DAB radio/CD with navigation system
• Cruise control
• Automatic headlights
• Rain sensing wipers
• Auto-dimming rear view mirror
• Power-fold door mirrors with puddle lamps
• Electronic automatic temperature control

The Ford Fiesta ST-3 goes on sale just one year after the current Fiesta ST’s debut.  Since then over 6,250 have been sold – 20 per cent more than forecast.

Priced at £19,250, the Ford Fiesta ST3 responds to demand for a higher series model in addition to the previous two specification line-up, with the ST-2 accounting for over 90 per cent of sales.

Powered by the same highly efficient petrol engine that has proved so popular with Ford customers – the 1.6-litre EcoBoost 182PS unit with six-speed manual transmission – the Ford Fiesta ST-3 will maintain the car’s ‘hot hatch’ performance, reaching 62mph time in 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 139mph. Official fuel economy on the combined cycle is 47.9mpg, with CO₂ emissions of only 138g/km.

Five vibrant exterior colours are available – Frozen White, Race Red, Panther Black, Spirit Blue and Molten Orange. They are matched to one of two striking interior colour themes, Molten Orange or Smoke Storm, depending on the paint finish chosen.

Rear parking sensors are introduced as an optional extra on the ST-3 (and ST-2), costing £250.

The Ford Fiesta ST was launched to critical acclaim and has gone on to win almost 25 award honours including:

• Car of the Year – Top Gear Magazine Awards
• Best Hot Hatch – Auto Express Awards
• Best Hot Hatch – Scottish Car of the Year Awards
• Car of the Year – The Scotsman Motoring Awards
• Best Performance Car – UK Car of the Year Awards

New BMW X4 Ugly wagon to debut at New York.

The BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe will make its world debut and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, BMW ALPINA B6 Gran Coupe, BMW X3 LCI and BMW Concept X5 eDrive will make their North American debuts at the 2014 New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, April 16, at the BMW Stand at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 655 West 34th Street (at 11th Avenue), Manhattan. English and Spanish speaking BMW representatives will be available for interviews throughout the day. 

The BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe combines the performance and capability of a premium Sports Activity Vehicle with the style and elegance of a traditional coupe. In the U.S., the X4 will be offered with a choice of two TwinPower Turbo engines. The X4 xDrive28i, with a MSRP of $45,625 (including Destination & Handling), will feature BMW’s award-winning 240 horsepower 2.0-liter four cylinder, producing peak torque of 260 lb-ft and 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds. The top-of-line X4 xDrive35i, with an MSRP of $48,925 (including Destination & Handling), will feature BMW’s venerable 300 horsepower 3.0-liter inline six, producing peak torque of 300 lb-ft and 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds. Both models include an 8-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission with shift paddles as well as xDrive, BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system. The BMW X4 will begin production in spring 2014 exclusively at BMW’s U.S. production facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina. BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe Press Kit. 

The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe adds a fresh dimension to one of the company’s newest model ranges. It combines the sleek look and sporty character of the 4 Series Coupe with the functionality provided by four-doors and a spacious, flexible luggage compartment. The 2015 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe arrives in the U.S. in early summer of 2014 with two engine choices. The 428i Gran Coupe will feature BMW’s award-winning 240 horsepower TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder, achieving peak torque of 255 lb-ft (0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds) and the 435i Gran Coupe will be powered by the much-lauded 300 horsepower TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline six achieving peak torque of 300 lb-ft (0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds). The 428i xDrive Gran Coupe will also be available at launch with BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system. All versions will be offered in the U.S. with an 8-speed sport automatic transmission. Prices in the U.S. will start at a base MSRP of $41,225, including $925 Destination & Handling for the 428i Gran Coupe, $43,225, including Destination & Handling, for the 428i xDrive Gran Coupe, and $46,725, including $925 Destination & Handling for the 435i Gran Coupe. BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe Press Kit. 

The 2015 BMW ALPINA B6 Gran Coupe delivers exceptional 0-60 mph in only 3.7 seconds. The 540-horsepower and 540 lb-ft output of the 4.4-liter ALPINA bi-Turbo V8 is channeled through an 8 speed Sports Automatic Transmission with ALPINA Switch-Tronic and BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system. Electronic Damping Control and Active Roll Stabilization technology work together with the fully variable torque distribution of the xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system. The seamless integration of chassis and powertrain enables agile and neutral driving dynamics that meet the highest demands for sportiness, comfort and all-weather traction. With a top speed of 198 mph, the BMW ALPINA B6 Gran Coupe impresses not only through its effortless and confident super-high performance, but also with its finely balanced handling and smooth refinement. The 2015 BMW ALPINA B6 Gran Coupe will go on sale in spring 2014 for $118,225, including $925 Destination & Handling. BMW ALPINA B6 Gran Coupe Press Kit.

In the BMW Concept X5 eDrive, the innovative EfficientDynamics drive technology BMW eDrive and the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive are united for the first time. The combination of a BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder combustion engine and a 95-horsepower electric motor provides typical BMW performance, with BMW xDrive further increasing the dynamics. At the same time, this powertrain is impressively efficient. The average fuel efficiency of less than 74.3 mpg in the EU test cycle is unrivalled among vehicles in this class, with CO2 emissions of less than 90 grams per kilometer also setting new standards. Via the driving dynamics control switch, different drive modes can be selected. In the fully electric mode, which is free from local emissions, a maximum range of 19 miles is possible – at speeds of up to 75 mph. The BMW Concept X5 eDrive obtains its electrical energy from a (lithium-ion) high-voltage battery, which is accommodated in a space-efficient manner under the flat luggage compartment floor. This means that the room in the vehicle can still be used flexibly, with an almost identical luggage space volume. The high-voltage battery can be charged quickly and conveniently using the BMW home charging station. Alternatively, it can be replenished using any standard household power outlet or at a public charging station. BMW Concept X5 eDrive Press Kit.

The BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle expands on the 2010 second-generation BMW X3 with a new offer of BMW Advanced Diesel power in the X3 xDrive28d that enhances efficiency while reducing emissions. There will also be the first-time offer of the rear-wheel drive BMW X3 sDrive28i for the U.S. market, providing a great consumer entry point into the X3 family. The new xDrive28d will feature BMW’s 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque and accelerates from 0-60 mph in just under eight seconds. The X3 xDrive28i features BMW 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine, producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 in 6.2 seconds. The exterior and interior design of the new BMW X3 received stylistic revisions that add further depth to the vehicle’s practicality. The new BMW X3 will go on sale in spring 2014 as a 2015 model. In the U.S., the base MSRP will be $39,325 for the X3 sDrive28i, $40,725 for the X3 xDrive28i, $42,825 for the X3 xDrive28d with BMW Advanced Diesel technology, and $45,825 for the top-of-the-line X3 xDrive35i. Pricing includes $925 Destination & Handling.BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle Press Kit. 

The BMW i3 will be available for ride-alongs at the EV Pavilion on Level 1 of the Javits Center during show hours on April 16-17 and NYIAS public days.

The BMW 4 Series has been named as one of three finalists for the 2014 World Car Awards’ “World Car of the Year” distinction. In addition, the BMW i3 has been named as one of three finalists for both the 2014 “World Green Car” and “World Car Design of the Year” awards.

BMW makes an uglier little brother to the X6, here, unfortunately we welcome the X4

The new BMW X4 combines the hallmark features of the BMW X family with the sporting elegance of a classical coupé, resulting in BMW’s first Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) for the premium mid-size segment.

Its dynamic pedigree is underlined by a wide range of cutting-edge high-performance engines, the xDrive all-wheel-drive system and a high level of standard equipment. A choice of three diesel engines, a comprehensive package of BMW EfficientDynamics measures and the extensive connectivity provided by BMW ConnectedDrive are all elements in a driving experience allows sporty performance and incredible efficiency.

At 4,671 millimetres in length, it is just 14 millimetres longer than the X3, but at 1,624mm high it is also 36 millimetres lower to the ground and cuts a dynamic profile with its perfectly balanced proportions and distinctive sporting character.

Model	Power (hp)	Torque (Nm)	0 – 62mph (seconds)	Top speed (mph)	Combined (mpg)	CO2 emissions (g/km)	Price OTR
BMW X4 xDrive20d SE	190	400	8.0 (8.0)	132 (132)	52.3 (54.3)	143 (138)	£36,590
BMW X4 xDrive30d xLine	258	560	(5.8)	(145)	(47.9)	(156)	£44,890
BMW X4 xDrive35d M Sport	313	630	(5.2)	(153)	(47.1)	(157)	£48,990

Design

The new BMW X4 follows in the footsteps of the BMW X6, visually combining the character of a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) with the sporting elegance of a classic coupé to create an unmistakable presence on the road.

Based on the same platform as the BMW X3, the BMW X4 displays a sporting character of its own.  The large air intakes positioned on the outer edges of the front end and the character lines in the front apron lend the X4 a more muscular and agile appearance. This lowers the car’s visual centre of gravity, signalling its sharper dynamics. The effect is further enhanced by the fog lamps sited below the signature twin headlights.

The coupé-like roofline reaches its highest point over the front seats, reflecting the traditional driver focus of BMW cars, before dropping gently down towards the trailing edge of the boot lid. The standalone design of the BMW X4 is further reinforced by the fresh interpretation of the signature swage line running along the flanks of BMW models.  For the first time this is split into two the first section rises smoothly from the front wheel arches to the rear door handles, while the second part accentuates the powerful sculpting of the rear wings.

The contoured C-pillars, muscular shoulders and the broad and low-set rear end, hints at the performance of the BMW X4 before the engine has even been started.

The interior of the new BMW X4 reveals a harmonious synthesis of sportiness and exclusivity. The driver focused cabin uses premium materials including subtle electroplated accents, a high-gloss black-panel look and aluminium trim strips in the wood panelling to create a luxurious ambiance.

The driver and front passenger sit 20mm lower and the rear passengers 28mm lower than in a BMW X3, accentuating the classic coupé feeling.   It is a sensation reinforced by the rear bench seat, which comes with the type of continuously moulded side support normally only provided by two individual seats, but still offers space for three passengers.

The BMW X4 has a load capacity of between 500 and 1,400 litres which, thanks to the standard 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, can be used in a wide variety of ways. Everyday usability is further enhanced by the standard-fit automatically opening tailgate.

Equipment levels

The BMW X4 offers a level of standard equipment well above that found on the BMW X3. As standard it comes with an automatically opening tailgate, Variable Sport Steering, 18-inch light-alloy wheels, front and rear Park Distance Control, Performance Control and Xenon headlights.  Inside the BMW X4 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats, a Sport leather steering wheel, Heated front seats and BMW Business Media package are all standard.

For an additional £1,500 the xLine trim level will also be available on the BMW X4.  This includes an exclusive18-inch light-alloy wheel, Satin Aluminium exterior trim, Dark Copper interior trim, Sport seats and exclusive xLine leather upholstery.

The popular M Sport model costs an additional £3,000 over the SE and offers even greater dynamics and visually boosts the X4’s sporting appeal.   The M Aerodynamic bodystyling, High-gloss Shadow Line trim exterior trim and an exclusive 19-inch M Sport light-alloy wheels lends the BMW X4 an even more sporty appearance, while the M Sport suspension enhances the ride.  BMW M door sill finishers, Sport seats and an Aluminium Hexagon interior trim add the finishing touches.

Handling: comfortable ride with agile handling

All BMW X4 models have a sporty suspension set-up and come with BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system as standard. This ensures that the drive is split between the rear wheels continuously and as required, which further improves traction, turn-in and directional stability. Working in tandem with the standard Variable Sport Steering, these systems allow the BMW X4 to deliver driving dynamics that surpass even those of the BMW X3 in terms of sportiness. An xDrive status display uses three-dimensional graphics to keep the driver informed of the car’s body roll and pitch.

Engines

From launch the new BMW X4 will be available with a choice three diesel engines, all of which meet the EU6 standards. BMW TwinPower Turbo technology ensures that performance is maintained while fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions are kept to a minimum.

The BMW X4 xDrive20d is powered by a newly developed 2.0-litre diesel engine with an all-aluminium construction. This power unit develops 190hp at 4,000rpm with a peak torque of 400Nm. As a result, the X4 xDrive20d requires just 8.0 seconds to sprint from zero to 62mph. The BMW X4 xDrive20d comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox but can be optionally specified with an the eight-speed automatic transmission which brings fuel consumption down to 54.3mpg and sets the CO₂ emission at 138g/km.

The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW X4 xDrive30d, paired with the standard eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, returns a combined mpg of 47.9 while CO₂ emissions are just 156 g/km.  These parsimonious emissions don’t impact the performance with the engine outputting 258hp at 4,000rpm with a peak torque of 560Nm from as low as 1,500rpm, while it accelerates from zero to 62mph in 5.8 seconds.

The xDrive35d engine tops the BMW X4 line-up. The 3.0-litre diesel delivers 313hp and puts a peak torque of 630Nm on tap from between 1,500 and 2,500rpm. With its standard-fitted Launch Control, the X4 xDrive35d launches from zero to 62mph in a mere 5.2 seconds and goes onto a top speed of 153mph. However, the X4 xDrive35d still posts fuel consumption of just 47.1mpg and emits only 157g/km CO₂.

EfficientDynamics

The unparalleled suite of EfficientDynamics technologies also minimises the fuel consumption and emissions of the new BMW X4. Features such as Auto Start- Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration and on-demand operation of ancillary units are standard across the range.  Optionally available are 17-inch aero wheels with reduced-rolling-resistance tyres, which reduce the CO2 emissions of the BMW X4 xDrive20d and xDrive30d by a further 7g/km.

The BMW Driving Assistant offers additional potential for fuel saving. This technology uses route data supplied by the car’s navigation system to identify situations in advance which will require the car to slow down – e.g. on the way into towns and villages, speed limits etc. – and gives suitable recommendations.

BMW ConnectedDrive

The BMW ConnectedDrive features available for the new BMW X4 offer class-leading technology in the link-up of driver, vehicle and the outside world.

Providing added safety and greater convenience in the BMW X4 is the optional full-colour Head-up Display, which projects all important driving information and the assistance system displays into the driver’s field of vision. The latest-generation Professional Multimedia Navigation system, with ECO PRO route guidance, now teams up with the iDrive Touch Controller. Safety and convenience can be further enhanced by option including the anti-dazzle High-beam Assistant, Driving Assistant Plus including Pedestrian and Collision Warning with City Braking function, Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go function and Lane Departure Warning.

The optional BMW ConnectedDrive services allow customers to access smartphone applications such as AUPEO! or Deezer as well as innovative mobility services via the built-in SIM card.  Remote Services and Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) can likewise be used from the comfort of the car.

Online Entertainment provides direct access to music services such as rara or Napster with their millions of music tracks as well as audiobooks. The intelligent e-Call function is triggered automatically or can be used manually to alert the authorities. As soon as the crash sensors report an airbag deployment, the system sends the vehicle location and all key information to the BMW Call Centre via the built-in SIM card, enabling fast and effective assistance at the accident location.

The BMW X4 arrives in dealerships on 12 July, 2014 and will be priced from £36,590 OTR for an X4 xDrive20d SE.