The winners of the Next Green Car Awards 2016 have been announced, with the UK’s best green cars recognised

The winners of the Next Green Car Awards 2016 have been announced, with the UK’s best green cars recognised.

Winning models have been carefully selected across 10 awards categories, made up of nine vehicle sectors and a Next Generation award. 

An overall NGC Car of the Year 2016 champion has also been picked from the 10 category winners, all of which have been launched in the UK in 2016 or will be released in 2017.

All winning models have been judged against a range of environmental, performance and cost criteria, with Next Green Car's unique NGC Rating a primary factor in deciding which vehicles made it through to the shortlist.

With key environmental credentials established, other considerations such as suitability for purpose, impact on the market, and value for money are taken into account, to decide the winning and commended vehicles in each category.

Commenting on the winners of this year’s awards, Dr Ben Lane, Director at Next Green Car, said: “We are delighted to give recognition to 10 cars which best combine environmental and driving performance. 

Utilising state-of-the-art technology, the winners demonstrate that cars can be exhilarating to drive and impact less on the environment – all at affordable cost.

“To illustrate the range and capability of low emission vehicles now on the market, the average CO₂ emissions of the finalists across the 10 categories is less than 36 g/km, nine of the 20 models are pure-electric, six are plug-in hybrids, four conventional hybrids, with only one model not featuring any kind of electrification; reflecting the global trend in auto-tech.”

The winners of the Next Green Car Awards 2016 are as follows:

Citycar Award 2016

WINNER: Volkswagen e-up! – CO2 0 g/km – NGC Rating 22

NGC verdict: "Already one of the best city cars around, VW has made its e-up! even better with sharper looks and improved equipment. Fun to drive, cheap to run, and with zero tailpipe emissions, this little electric Volkswagen is an ideal urban runabout."

COMMENDED: Mahindra e2o – CO2 0 g/km – NGC Rating 22

Supermini Award 2016

WINNER: Renault Zoe Z.E. 40 –CO2 0 g/km – NGC Rating 25

NGC verdict: "Renault roots out range anxiety with its new Zoe Z.E. 40, offering 250 miles of range in a strong supermini package. Nicely designed and easy to use, the zero-emission Zoe now has more than enough range to persuade even the most anxious driver into an EV."

COMMENDED: BMW i3 94Ah – CO2 0 g/km – NGC Rating 23

Small Family Award 2016

WINNER: Hyundai Ioniq Electric – CO2 0 g/km – NGC Rating 22

NGC verdict: "It's tough to find any flaws with the Ioniq Electric. Hyundai has packed plenty of performance, practicality, range and value for money into the new model, making it a genuine winner that will tempt many buyers into their first electric car.”

COMMENDED: Renault Megane – CO2 96 g/km – NGC Rating 32

Large Family Award 2016

WINNER: Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid – CO2 37 g/km – NGC Rating 40

NGC Verdict: "Smooth, spacious, and stylish, the Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid offers plenty of kit and a comfortable driving experience. With its handy range in electric-mode, Kia's latest plug-in is likely to prove a popular family and company car."

COMMENDED: Toyota Prius – CO2 70 g/km – NGC Rating 27

MPV Award 2016

WINNER: BMW 225xe –CO2 46 g/km – NGC Rating 37

NGC verdict: "The only PHEV MPV on the market, BMW's 225xe manages to combine the practical capabilities of its 2 Series Active Tourer with its tried and tested plug-in hybrid power-train. The result is a brilliant family workhorse that costs very little to run."

COMMENDED: Renault Scenic – CO2 92 g/km – NGC Rating 34

Crossover Award 2016

WINNER: Toyota C-HR –CO2 86 g/km – NGC Rating 32

NGC verdict: "If you find the Prius tempting but a bit too staid, Toyota now offers the C-HR. Making the most of its market-leading hybrid system, the crossover is a frugal and stylish way to nip (and be seen) around town."

COMMENDED: Kia Niro – CO2 88 g/km – NGC Rating 33

SUV Award 2016

WINNER: Tesla Model X –CO2 0 g/km – NGC Rating 35

NGC verdict: "From its wrap-over windscreen and falcon-wing doors to its long-range electric drive, Tesla's Model X excels in providing a sophisticated 21st century driving experience.  Tesla's entry into the SUV market looks set to be just as successful as the Model S."

COMMENDED: Audi Q7 e-tron – CO2 48 g/km – NGC Rating 26

Executive Award 2016

WINNER: BMW 330e –CO2 44 g/km – NGC Rating 35

NGC verdict: "A plug-in version of a car synonymous with the compact executive class can only be a good thing. With the potential for cost savings, strong performance, well-balanced handling, and a refined interior, the BMW 330e is a welcome addition to the executive fleet."

COMMENDED: Mercedes Benz E 350e – CO2 49 g/km – NGC Rating 37

Sports Cabrio Award 2016

WINNER: Morgan EV3 –CO2 0 g/km – NGC Rating 18

NGC verdict: "With its unique blend of design, range and performance, Morgan's electric sports car provides all the thrills of the three-wheeler but with zero-emissions. The Morgan EV3 is an unconventional, but warmly welcomed addition to the electric car market."

COMMENDED: Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid – CO2 56 g/km – NGC Rating 46

Next Generation Award 2016

WINNER: Riversimple Rasa –NGC Rating TBC

NGC verdict: "Ultra-efficient, the Riversimple Rasa was designed on a clean sheet of paper, and it shows. No other car maker can touch Riversimple's dedication to efficiency, and the technology found on the Rasa is proof that such a car can be done and done well."

COMMENDED: Tesla Model 3 – NGC Rating TBC

NGC Car of the Year 2016

WINNER: Hyundai Ioniq –CO2 0-79 g/km – NGC Rating 22-29

NGC verdict: "The new Ioniq’s design philosophy is pitch-perfect in delivering a range of low emission, stylish and practical family cars. Full marks to Hyundai for offering a choice of three electric and hybrid powertrains, all of which combine performance with affordability.”

Commenting on the Car of the Year winner, Chris Lilly, Content Manager at Next Green Car commented: “The Hyundai Ioniq wins the NGC Car of the Year Award 2016 against some exceptional competition. While the last 12 months have seen a number of new models come onto the market, the Ioniq takes the prize for its quality design, practicality, and its low running costs.

“In addition, the Ioniq range has been intentionally designed from the outset to offer three different electric powertrain options: pure electric and conventional hybrid, with a plug-in hybrid due for release next year. 

The ability for customers to choose the electric powertrain that best fits their driving needs from across the Ioniq range is a great step forward, and a route we hope other manufacturers will follow.”

LA SHOW - Last year SCION showed a new model, this year that model is now a Toyota and comes as per the concept.

• Bold, Eye-Catching Style Signals New Direction in Toyota Design
• Nürburgring-Tuned Agile Handling 
• Standard Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P)

An exciting next chapter in Toyota’s storied North American product history has been revealed under the lights of the Los Angeles Convention Center. 

Stylish, athletic, and tech-filled, the all-new 2018 Toyota C-HR – or, Coupe High-Rider – represents a leap forward in design, manufacturing, and engineering for Toyota. When it arrives at dealerships next spring, the C-HR will serve as a solid springboard of excitement, adventure, and pride for its fashion-forward, trendsetting owners. 

Last year at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Scion debuted its stunning C-HR Concept. That well-received design study set the stage for the Toyota C-HR, which, nearly to the tee, carries on the concept’s avant-garde physique; modern, comfortable cabin; and bold, outgoing character. 

The C-HR will be available in two grades at launch, XLE and XLE Premium, each equipped with a long list of standard premium features that includes 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, supportive bucket seating, 7-inch audio display, and Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P). 

But, the C-HR doesn’t only look great – it’s got the sportiness to impress thanks to Deputy Chief Engineer, Hiro Koba, who is a diehard racer at heart. He and his team made it their mission to ensure the C-HR exhilarates its driver anytime, anywhere. Like its uncanny looks, the C-HR’s comprehensive and cohesive blend of comfort, control, consistency, and responsiveness that was cultivated on the famed Nürburgring is as impressive as it is unique. 

POLISHED DIAMOND STYLE

Toyota’s team of global designers expounded on one theme: “Distinctive Diamond.” The iconic gemstone evokes universal notions of luxury, attractiveness, sophistication, and strength. Designers translated these traits into a physical form that’s collectively matchless, sexy, muscular, and edgy. From the get-go, they strived to sculpt an urban-dwelling crossover that would effortlessly navigate tight city streets and stand out, with an agile, dynamic expressiveness. 

At the C-HR’s nose, two slim projector-beam halogen headlights with LED daytime running lights wrap deep into its toned shoulders – nearly all the way into the front quarter panels. Because of this, the vehicle looks wider than it is, and possesses an assertive fascia that’s uncommon in the segment.

Deep, curvy character lines emerge from a prominent Toyota badge that’s flanked by the headlamps, and lead into the narrower core body. They run below the slender windows, and continue above the rear wheel where they marry to a high beltline and distinctive C-Pillar with integrated door handle. 

Look closely at the silhouette to see the clear resemblance of a diamond set on its side. Powerful arches housing the extra-large 18-inch aluminum wheels accentuate the C-HR’s sturdy posture and compact cabin.

The rear is a cohesive melding of its elaborate lines and 3D shapes. The tail lamps protrude outward, and the hatchback – outfitted with a lip spoiler and functional top wing – tapers neatly inboard, adding to the C-HR’s futuristic look, and, once more, surprising girth. 

CUTTING-EDGE CABIN

Opening a door reveals a modern, spacious, and uncluttered interior having a keen placement of diamond accents and a driver-centric “MeZONE” orientation. Along with the soft-touch materials covering surfaces throughout, the diamond pattern influences the designs of the dual-zone climate controls, speaker surrounds, and black headliner above the front passengers.

The slightly angled dashboard and amenity controls allows for the driver to have a clear view of the road ahead and intuitive access to instrumentation – a nod to the C-HR’s sports car influence. The 7-inch audio display is positioned centrally atop the dash, rather than in it, so as to help reduce a driver’s eye movements. An informative twin-ring gauge cluster resides behind the leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel. The wheel, with its slender profile, small diameter, and compact center pad, is reminiscent of a sports car’s easy-to-grip helm. The satin-plated shift knob exudes a high-quality feeling, and once in-hand, has a solid shift movement. A bright 4.2-inch color Multi-Information Display sits between the twin-ring cluster.

Key XLE standard features include a premium leather steering wheel; power fold and heated mirrors; auto-dimming rearview mirror with backup camera; electric parking brake; and dual-zone climate control. The XLE Premium builds upon the XLE’s amenities and adds Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert; heated front seats; power lumbar driver’s seat; auto fold, heated side mirrors with puddle lamps that project “Toyota C-HR”; fog lamps; and Smart Key with Push Button Start. Both grades are equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen display having AM/FM/HD Radio™, Aha™app, USB port and AUX jack, Bluetooth®, and Voice Recognition with voice training. 

Bolstered bucket seats help keep passengers snug and comfortable, no matter their commute’s duration or dynamism. All passengers will appreciate the generous amount of small item storage space and cup holders. Designers used scalloped seatbacks, foot well cubbies carved below the front seats, and a chamfered headliner to create a spacious backseat environment. Sound insulating materials placed on the carpet, headliner, A-pillars, and door trim to help keep all unwanted noises out and the good conversations in. For extra cargo carrying versatility on weekend trips or errand runs, the rear 60/40 seat can split and fold flat. 

SURPRISE ATHLETE

The Toyota C-HR scores high on style points, but it is also a hit when it comes to thrilling fun and impressive comfort. Deputy Chief Engineer Koba took full advantage of the C-HR’s adaptable Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) to craft an engaging character that goes well beyond just a cool appearance. The C-HR’s core driving personality incorporates the ingredients of a well-sorted sports car – one that seamlessly melds cunning responsiveness, linearity, consistency, and comfort. 

Years were spent developing the C-HR’s driving performance and ride quality on some of the world’s most curvaceous and challenging roads, including the Nürburgring Nordschleife, an iconic racing circuit. Doing so took a mix of innovation, creativity, and trial and error. As a result, the TNGA platform – with an inherent low center-of-gravity, high strength, and low weight – benefitted from extra rigidity through added spot welding, gussets, braces, and adhesives in and on key connection structures. 

The newly developed MacPherson strut front suspension with SACHS dampers has angled strut bearings and a large diameter stabilizer bar to help the C-HR’s front end respond quickly and precisely at initial corner turn-in. And at the rear, an all-new double-wishbone suspension utilizes SACHS shock absorbers with urethane upper supports – a first for Toyota. The material, together with an aluminum-cast upper support housing, aids in the dampers’ absorption efficiency, and therefore, greatly benefit passenger comfort, cabin quietness, and vehicle agility. 

Feeling connected to the road is characteristic of a sporty drive, and the C-HR delivers with its column-type Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system. As is the case with other EPS systems, a tilt of the steering wheel will return light feedback at low speeds, and at higher speeds, drivers will notice stronger feedback for increased confidence while behind the wheel. The C-HR’s steering system’s feel, however, relies on a highly rigid rack-and-pinion steering gearbox that is installed directly to the front suspension. 

For all of its sportiness, the C-HR’s ride quality is well-sorted, civilized, and highly capable in absorbing the nastiest of unkempt pavement. The end result is a C-HR that finds itself as at home on congested boulevards as it does on serpentine roads. 

COMPACT PUNCH 

The C-HR’s engine, a punchy 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 144 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, sends all power to the front wheels via continuously variable transmission (CVT). The engine employs many of Toyota’s latest generation of technologies, including Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and Valvematic, both of which have received extensive optimization to enhance fuel economy and smooth operation. Valvematic offers a broader range of continuously variable valve timing (lift and phasing) to provide optimal intake valve (not on exhaust side) operation relative to engine demands. Furthermore, to reduce exhaust emissions, the catalyst is warmed earlier during the engine’s ignition cycle.  

The all-new CVT received much attention by engineers, and utilizes redesigned pulleys to enhance acceleration and fuel economy; a new belt structure to reduce cabin noise; and, a world’s-first coaxial two-port oil pump system that allows for continuous oil pressure modifications in various driving conditions. A Preload Differential helps to distribute torque between the left and right wheels during low-speed operation to make for easier, composed driving. 

Of course, drivers and passengers will appreciate the powertrain’s fuel efficiency, impressive smoothness, and quiet operation, but they’ll love Sport mode and the simulated 7-speed Sequential Shiftmatic. Engaging the Sport mode via the MID increases the responsiveness of the throttle, quickens the CVT’s automatic artificial “step-up” shifts, and maintains high engine speed to enhance acceleration. The EPS’ feedback is weightier for a more confidence-inspiring feel. Pushing the gearshift over to the left while in Drive engages Sequential Shiftmatic, and lets drivers shift simulated gears at their convenience.

STATE-OF-THE-ART SAFETY 

No matter its grade, the C-HR comes equipped with standard Toyota Safety Sense P™ (TSS-P). This multi-feature advanced active safety suite bundles cutting-edge active safety technologies including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection function (PCS w/PD) featuring forward collision warning and Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist function (LDA w/SA), Automatic High Beams (AHB), and Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). The C-HR is the only competitor in the segment to offer standard Full-Speed DRCC.

Complementing TSS-P are 10 standard airbags, standard Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) and rear backup camera, as well as available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which are only available on the XLE Premium grade.

USA - Scion continues to "make the difference" with some interesting designs at the L.A. Show.

Prepare to take a second – or third – look at Scion’s style. During the Los Angeles Auto Show, Scion’s modern approach comes to life in its newest concept car, a clothing collaboration and multiple creative projects.

“With the C-HR Concept debut and collaborations with our incredible creative partners, it’s an exciting time for Scion,” said Landy Joe, Scion auto shows and special events manager. “Our goal was to interject this spirit in our LA Auto Show activations and demonstrate how Scion likes to do things outside of the box.”

 

Scion C-HR Concept

The eye-catching Scion C-HR Concept will make its world debut, giving attendees an up-close look at the next addition to Scion’s line-up. 

Named for its Compact size and High Ride height, the C-HR Concept incorporates distinctive styling and sporty performance. The versatile hatch and sophisticated touches aim to meet the lifestyle needs of the young urban creatives who inspired the design.

 

STAMPD Style for Scion

Scion’s style statement doesn’t end with the C-HR Concept. Scion creative partner and GQ Magazine’s “Best New Menswear Designer of 2015,” Chris Stamp of Los Angeles-based ‘avantstreet’ lifestyle brand STAMPD, will give Scion product specialists a fresh look for the auto show season. Exclusive to Scion, the collection of jackets, shirts and pants takes styling cues from STAMPD’s outlook on luxury streetwear. 

Two new commercials, directed by Stamp, feature both menswear and womenswear outfits that complement the sporty look of the 2016 iM and sleek aerodynamics of the 2016 iA. A preview of the Scion x STAMPD collaboration can be seen on the Scion Blog.

 

Creative Collaborations on Display

LA Auto Show visitors will experience how Scion’s creative partners take the spirit of the brand to new places. Meet and greets with Scion partners will be held at the Scion booth during the following dates and times:

• Friday, November 20 at 11:30 a.m.: Robert Kirkman, creator of The Walking Dead comic book and Skybound Entertainment
• Saturday, November 21 at 1:30 p.m.: Andrew Reynolds and Bryan Herman, legendary professional skateboarder and leader of Baker Skateboards
• Sunday, November 22 at 1:30 p.m.: Steve Aoki, Grammy Award-Nominated, Gold-Selling Artist & Producer/DJ
• Saturday, November 28 at 1:30 p.m.: Eddie Huang, restauranteur, writer, host, and TV producer

Further examples of these partnerships will be on display with the attention-grabbing Scion iA project builds by Eddie Huang and Skybound Entertainment. Huang embraced LA culture with a modern take on the classic lowrider, outfitting the iA with a chain-link steering wheel, custom swivel front seats and a one-of-a kind gold-plated grille. The hood features a mural of a “human panda,” which is how Huang refers to himself.

Fans of The Walking Dead will appreciate Skybound Entertainment’s execution of Robert Kirkman’s latest comic book, Outcast. With the theme of demonic possession, the orange, black and green-toned car moves and operates on its own via pneumatic movements of multiple components and an automated sequence of light and audio effects.

 

11^th Annual Scion Tuner Challenge

Prominent streetwear brands illest and Crooks & Castles showed what’s possible when each created remixed versions of the 2016 Scion iM. Competing head-to-head in Scion’s annual Tuner Challenge. 

Mark Arcenal, creative director of illest, drew inspiration for his iM concept from the Japanese VIP world, while Rob Panlilio, co-founder of Crooks & Castles, stuck to his Japanese car roots with a wide body kit and AccuAir suspension. Visitors will get an up-close look at both builds before the winner is announced by Eddie Huang on November 28.

 

2016 Scion FR-S Release Series 2.0

Style is simple with the 2016 FR-S Release Series 2.0. With just 1,000 vehicles available, the 2016 FR-S Release Series 2.0 is the most elusive and exclusive Scion release series yet. 

The vehicle comes with luxurious appointments and premium features, including heated seats in black Alcantara and leather with camel-colored accents; Lunar Storm paint and 17-inch forged alloy wheels; Smart key with push-button start; dual-zone automatic climate control and HID headlamps with LED daylight running lamps.