Purpose

I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.
Showing posts with label Compact Crossover. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Compact Crossover. Show all posts

Tuesday, 25 April 2017

The Ignis from Suzuki was a runner up in this years ceremony, just being pipped to the post.

  • Urban Category Runner-Up – 2017 World Car of The Year
Suzuki is very pleased to announce that the IGNIS is a Runner-Up in the Urban Car category of the 2017 World Car of The Year. The compact crossover was voted highly by the judges at a ceremony at the New York International Motor Show on April 12th.
To qualify for the initial judging process, vehicles had to be less than four metres long, suitable in design for everyday use in an urban environment and also on sale across two Continents by the deadline of Spring 2017. 
At just 3.70 metres in length, the IGNIS Mini Crossover easily qualified, it was shortlisted in January and became a finalist with two other new cars in March.
World Car of The Year Juror, Director and Vice-Chair Mike Rutherford comments: "Suzuki has seen off many rival manufacturers from all corners of the globe to become a 2017 World Car finalist. 
As our 70-plus jurors have decided, Suzuki builds some of the finest small cars on the market - thus the IGNIS and Baleno being voted into our Top Five in the world, with IGNIS going on to be a Top three finalist, only narrowly missing out on being crowned World Urban Car winner. This astonishing success is all the more remarkable in view of its extremely low price tag. Here’s a great little crossover vehicle proving the point that a world class car can be very affordable”
The IGNIS was first launched in the Japanese domestic market, unveiled for Europe at the Paris Motor Show last Autumn and went on sale in January 2017. In addition to its stylish exterior design it features excellent visibility, compact dimensions and a spacious cabin with ample luggage space. It continues to be very popular with customers in the UK with sales of more than 3,200 since January.
Available from £10,249, IGNIS is powered by a 90PS 1.2-litre Dualjet petrol engine and can be specified with ALLGRIP four wheel drive. It also offers optional SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) technology on the SZ5 model that lowers CO2 emissions to 97g/km.
IGNIS qualifies for Suzuki’s latest campaign whereby new models registered until the end of June 2017 will receive the equivalent discount of three years Vehicle Excise Duty of £420 off the price of the car at point of sale. There are also numerous low rate PCP finance options available including a £162 per month offer for the SZ3 model with just £162 initial deposit required. This is a 49 month agreement with an optional final payment of £3,982 to keep the car.

Wednesday, 12 April 2017

Nissan launches two new special editions based on the Compact Crossover - Juke.

Nissan launches two new Juke Special Versions
  • Pioneering compact crossover range gets two new special versions
  • Juke Tekna Pulse features upgraded sound system for improved in-car listening Exclusivity with a limited production run of only 1,500 models
  • Special version Juke N-Connecta Style also joins the range
  • Both versions feature exterior and interior personalisation packs included as standard
The original compact crossover, Nissan Juke now gets even more expressive with two stylish new special versions joining the range - the Juke Tekna Pulse and Juke N-Connecta Style – which are both on sale now.
Juke Tekna Pulse
Music fans take note. The Juke Tekna Pulse comes equipped with an upgraded and more powerful audio system, providing a more immersive listening experience than ever before.
The enhancement is one of a number of sophisticated features being introduced as standard on the Juke Tekna Pulse, offering customers exceptional value for money.
New speakers from respected French audio company Focal are at the heart of the upgraded Juke Tekna Pulse. Focal’s unique processing technology provides a more precise listening experience. The special 6-speaker sound system, engineered with signature polyglass, DFS and inverted dome aluminium technologies, delivers crystal-clear audio in an immersive soundscape.
Maximum power is raised from 40 watts to 120 watts in the front and rear speakers, and from 40 watts to 100 watts in the tweeters.
The Juke Tekna Pulse special version is available with a choice of two exterior colours – Metallic Black or Dark Grey – and each can be selected in either flagship Tekna or N-Connecta grade. Both feature the Juke’s black exterior personalisation pack and striking 18-inch alloy wheels with black inserts as standard.
Enhancements continue inside the cabin, with sports pedals and luxury floor mats included on all versions, further enhancing the black interior personalisation pack. Tekna models also come with premium leather seats, while N-Connecta grade examples receive new-to-Juke part-leather seats.
Prices for Juke Tekna Pulse start from £20,700 for the DIG-T 115 turbo petrol and £22,305 for the dCi 110 turbo diesel. A production run of just 1,500 cars is planned.
Juke N-Connecta Style
The Juke N-Connecta Style offers an enhanced version of the N-Connecta grade, with exterior and interior personalisation plus packs included. The Exterior Personalisation pack enhances Juke’s styling cues with colour co-ordinated bumper and headlight finishers, mirror covers, vibrant 18-inch alloy wheel inserts in Tokyo Black. The Interior Personalisation pack comprises premium sports seats with striking Tokyo Black trim to match the centre console and door strips. Xenon headlights are now also included as standard.
Juke N-Connecta Style is priced starting from £18,755 for the DIG-T 115 petrol engine, and £20,360 for the dCi 110 diesel engine.

Monday, 12 December 2016

A world Record attempt to J-Turn a Nissan Juke blindfolded has been completed.

  • Compact crossover’s windows blacked out as pro-driver uses Intelligent Around View Monitor (AVM) technology in stunt manoeuvre
  • World-first attempt equals ‘narrowest J-turn’ record by spinning Juke in a space just 18cm longer than the car
  • Intelligent AVM provides driver with 360-degree birds’ eye view of the Juke’s surroundings

The record-breaking Nissan Juke has done it again. This time the popular compact crossover has established the world’s first ‘blind’ J-turn record with the driver using only the car’s Intelligent Around View Monitor (AVM) on-board camera technology for guidance.
Stuntman Paul Swift spun the car 180 degrees with all the windows blacked out, using only the Juke’s four exterior cameras to position himself.
Amazingly, he equalled the existing ‘sighted’ record – turning the crossover from driving backwards to driving forwards in a space just 18cm longer than its bumper-to-bumper distance.

Nissan’s Intelligent AVM system provides the driver with a 360-degree birds’ eye view of the car and its surroundings. The four camera images are digitally stitched together and displayed on the NissanConnect dashboard screen, making parking simpler and safer.
Commenting on the world-first stunt, Paul Swift said: “I don’t recommend drivers try to park using AVM and a J-turn like I did, but I can really see how using the AVM technology in everyday driving situations would be a real benefit to Nissan customers."
Nissan Intelligent AVM also includes Moving Object Detection, which alerts the driver if something – for example, an animal or pedestrian – is close to the vehicle. This gives the driver enhanced awareness of their surroundings and improved peace of mind.
Intelligent AVM is part of the Nissan Intelligent Mobility vision for a safer and more sustainable driving future. It’s also one of the key building blocks of Nissan’s move towards ProPilot, the brand’s autonomous driving technology. The first Nissan car in Europe to feature ProPilot will be revealed in the next financial year (2017).
Paul Swift added: “Looking at the 360-degree view on the dashboard screen – rather than over my shoulder through the rear window – was strange at first, but I quickly adjusted. The AVM cameras gave me a clear view of the track so I was confident of staying within the lines.”
The highly experienced stunt driver took on the challenge at the home of the Juke – Nissan Manufacturing UK in Sunderland – where more than 100,000 Jukes are produced every year.
The Nissan Juke is no stranger to stunts and record attempts. The compact crossover already holds the record for completing the fastest mile on two wheels.
Stewart Callegari, General Manager for Advanced Planning, Nissan Europe: “This stunt is the perfect demonstration of the Nissan brand promise – Innovation that Excites. That promise is all about developing technology to make drivers’ lives simpler and safer, and Around View Monitor does just that.”
The Nissan Juke N-Vision special edition is on sale now at Nissan retailers and features Intelligent AVM as standard. Additional in-control technologies, including Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Warning, are also fitted.
The Nissan Juke is Europe's favourite compact crossover, having sold more than any other model – almost 760,000 units since its launch in 2010.

Thursday, 29 September 2016

PARIS - Suzuki goes back to the future with the return of the Ignis, a global compact crossover.

  • The new Ignis is a compact crossover designed to offer a stylish exterior along with versatile functionality that is convenient and easy to use.
  • Its new styling features strong presence that skilfully blends a fresh new look with elements that remain true to its Suzuki heritage.
  • Suzuki’s lightweight and highly rigid new-generation platform incorporates a newly designed suspension system that delivers excellent handling.
  • The SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) system employed by the 1.2 DUALJET engine helps deliver powerful performance and excellent fuel economy.

Suzuki Motor Corporation today unveiled the Ignis at the Paris Motor Show as its new global compact crossover. The new Ignis wraps convenience and comfort in a stylish new exterior. It exudes Suzuki DNA from every pore, while at the same time introducing an entirely new design with unique character. In addition to its simple and iconic styling, this compact SUV offers the functionality and performance to provide confident driving in a wide variety of conditions. Sales are scheduled to begin in Europe in January 2017, after which the model will also be introduced in other markets. 
Concept
1.      Design and utility

In addition to its stylish exterior design, the Ignis features excellent visibility, an easy-to-drive size, a spacious cabin and ample luggage space, as well as a sense of confidence, even on rough roads. The development goal was to create purely iconic crossover styling that is undoubtedly Suzuki.
2.     Fusing a “simple and iconic” design with Suzuki DNA

While inheriting design elements of the first-generation Cervo and first-generation Vitara, as well as the previous generation Swift, the Ignis introduces simple straight lines and curves that accentuate its distinct personality and appeal, and that leave a strong impression at first sight.
3.     Powerful performance combined with excellent fuel economy
The Ignis adopts a larger percentage of lightweight and strong high-tensile steel, making it possible to reduce vehicle weight while still maintaining a high level of rigidity. Adding the SHVS mild hybrid system to this realises dynamic driving performance combined with excellent fuel efficiency.
4.     Advanced safety equipment

Two stereo cameras monitor the distance between the vehicle and other objects, as well as the shape of those objects. This becomes the basis for the following three advanced safety functions: Dual Camera Brake Support (DCBS), lane departure warning, and weaving alert.
5.    Display audio with navigation function
Support for various smartphone connectivity systems allows the driver to connect a smartphone and access compatible apps on the touch screen display. Inserting SD cards that contain map data also enables the use of the navigation function.
Design
  • Despite the compact size, its body shape conveys an impression of strength.
  • While emphasising its personality, the cabin environment speaks of quality.
  • Customers can choose from a selection of smart, advanced body colours in combination with matching interior colours*.
    *The two interior accent colours are set in accordance with the selected body colour.
Exterior design
The impressive shape of the Ignis body begins with the distinctive front face that integrates the striking gaze of the LED headlamps and the strong lines of the front grille. It continues with the robust shoulders that suggest strength while the surface of the lower body exudes expressiveness. It is a simple design that at the same time presents a familiar, lovable expression. It also inherits the first-generation Cervo’s slit-like C-pillar design and the Swift’s distinctive blacked out A- and B-pillar design, as well as other distinctive Suzuki SUV design elements such as the fender garnish and clamshell bonnet. The resulting package carries Suzuki’s SUV heritage into a new era.
Interior design
In addition to its simple yet unique design, the characteristic image of the Ignis is further enhanced by its interior ambiance. The round shape of its air-conditioning system’s panel and the advanced feel of its distinctive meter cluster design combine to give the cabin environment a futuristic look.
The sweeping horizontal line of the instrument panel uses materials with rich texture to create a design that conveys breadth and roominess. The orange and metallic titanium accent colours add an extra touch of quality to the cabin and help establish an active image that befits a crossover.
Colour variations
The new Ignis offers a rich lineup of 14 colour patterns, including three new body colours and the two-tone offerings. Two accent colours available for the interior match the body colours and enable drivers to choose the new Ignis that best suits their individual tastes.
  • Body colours (total of 14 colours available)
    • Three new colours
      Flame Orange Pearl Metallic: Expresses a bright, strong image resembling the colour of heated metal.
      Neon Blue Metallic: This luminous blue colour evokes an image of neon lighting.
      Helios Gold Pearl Metallic: An energetic colour that conjures images of the sun shining in space.
    • Six other colours
    • Five two-tone colours (with a black roof)
  • Interior colours
    Two accent colours* further heighten the bold image of the black and white two-tone interior colour.
    Orange accent (on the floor console and inside door grips)
    Titanium accent (on the floor console and inside door grips)
    *The accent colour is paired to match the choice of body colour.
Utility
  • A roomy cabin with a sense of freedom and large-capacity luggage space
  • A tall eye-point that provides excellent visibility
  • Display audio with navigation function
Capacity
Adopting Suzuki’s new-generation platform minimised the size of the engine room while maximising the space available for cabin occupants and luggage. Within its compact body size, Ignis features a roomy and comfortable cabin with space between occupants, ample headroom and legroom contributing to its relaxing environment.
Another feature is large-capacity luggage space of 267L*, (227L* for the ALLGRIP model). It also adopts sliding rear seat functionality that, combined with the ability to fold down the rear seatbacks, makes it possible to accommodate a wide variety of luggage.
* Measured using the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) method, with the rear seatback fixed in the raised position.
Storage
The cabin features extremely convenient storage space. In addition to the two-section glove box design, there are bottle holders in the centre and rear consoles as well as in the front and rear doors. The overall design goal was to maximise the ease of everyday use.
Visibility
With a tall 180mm of minimum ground clearance, the Ignis enhances driving performance on rough roads, while also enabling a seat position that provides clear visibility and makes driving easier. The tall seat position also contributes to the ease of entering and exiting the cabin.
Smartphone Linkage Display Audio (SLDA)
The audio incorporates a touch-panel display that is as intuitive as a smartphone. Connect your smartphone via Bluetooth® or USB cable to use compatible smartphone applications through the display, which is also equipped with radio, rear-view camera, and navigation* function.
  • Android Auto extends the Android platform into the car in a way that's purpose-built for driving. It is designed to minimise distraction so you can focus on driving with Google™ services like Google Maps™, Google Search™.
  • Apple CarPlay allows iPhone users to get directions optimized for traffic, make calls, send and receive messages, and listen to music, all in a way that allows you to stay focused on the road with Siri or a touch screen.
  • MirrorLink lets various applications on your smartphone appear on the vehicle’s touchscreen display, allowing you to access your smartphone’s features.
Performance & Safety
  • Achieves both powerful performance and excellent fuel economy.
  • The new suspension provides excellent handling, and the new-generation platform contributes to roomier cabin space and better fuel economy.
  • Adopts the latest safety technologies to mitigate damage caused by collisions.
Engines
A 1.2 DUALJET (K12C) petrol engine that delivers both powerful performance and excellent fuel economy powers the Ignis. This combines with the SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) mild hybrid system to realise even greater fuel efficiency.
SHVS
SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) is a lightweight, compact mild hybrid system that uses an ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) with an integrated power generator and electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery pack. It is an optimum system for use in a compact car that leverages the electric motor’s torque assist and the system’s efficient power regeneration to realise better fuel economy.
Transmissions
Five-speed manual transmission: The adoption of a convergent locating system increases the sense of suction when shifting for lighter and better feeling shift action.
Five-speed AGS (Auto Gear Shift) transmission: Based on the five-speed manual transmission, Suzuki’s own automated manual transmission automatically performs the clutch and shift operations for the driver.
4WD (ALLGRIP AUTO)
The Ignis adopts Suzuki’s ALLGRIP AUTO viscous coupling four-wheel drive system. By automatically distributing drive torque to the front and rear wheels when it detects the front wheel losing its grip of the road, the system achieves fuel economy while maximising performance. ALLGRIP AUTO gives the driver peace of mind in everyday driving, especially when driving on slippery roads or snowy surfaces.
Suspension
The suspension was newly designed to best match the new-generation platform. In addition to a lighter and stronger suspension, the suspension mounts, which are an important aspect of driving performance, have also been designed for increased rigidity.
Safety equipment
The Ignis adopts Suzuki's Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) concept that provides a high level of collision safety. Some of the features include collapsible structures that absorb impact energy in the event of a collision, a frame structure that effectively disperses impact energy, and rigid cabin structure.
Other safety features include ESP® (Electronic Stability Program), which helps ensure stability while driving, along with front, side and curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a collision from the front or side.
As an additional safety feature, stereo cameras mounted on the vehicle function like human eyes, detecting lane markings as well as objects ahead and their distance away. Based on the size and shape of the object, the cameras can determine whether it is a pedestrian or another vehicle. These capabilities enable the inclusion of the following three advanced safety functions:
  • Dual Camera Brake Support (DCBS): When travelling at vehicle speeds of 5km/h or above, the stereo cameras detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead, helping avoid collisions and mitigate collision damage through warnings and automatic braking.
  • Lane departure warning function: When the vehicle is traveling at vehicle speeds of approximately 60km/h or above and is departing the lane without the driver using a turn signal, the system vibrates the steering wheel and lights a warning indicator on the meter panel to draw attention to lane departures caused by factors such as inattention to the road.
  • Weaving alert function: When the vehicle is traveling at vehicle speeds of approximately 60km/h or above and is weaving from side to side within the lane, the system sounds a warning buzzer and lights an indicator on the meter panel. This draws the driver’s attention to weaving caused by drowsiness or other factors. 

Thursday, 11 August 2016

Suzuki moves into 2017 with yet another All-New model, the Ignis, and a refreshed model, the SX4 S-Cross.

The new Ignis, Suzuki’s new compact crossover offering stylishness and utility, will make its European premiere next month at the 2016 Paris Mondial de l’Automobile.
Suzuki’s styling design heritage nurtured in a long history of compact car manufacturing has been passed down and some attributes are brought to life in the Ignis. 


The minimal exterior design looks fresh but undoubtedly Suzuki which makes the model purely iconic. The new Ignis will go on sale in the UK and Europe in January 2017.
Latest environmental technology from Suzuki includes a rigid, lightweight new-generation platform as well as the option of a compact and lightweight SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) which allows extra assistance through the electric motor and provides efficient battery recharge, these elements help achieve fuel efficiency without sacrificing good performance.
Also on display as a main exhibit is the SX4 S-Cross face-lift, with revamped front exterior design and further refined interior quality for a stronger yet more sophisticated character of an SUV. The facelifted model now features 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre Boosterjet direct-injection turbo engines that replace the existing 1.6 petrol unit. The 1.6 DDiS engine continues to be available and the new S-Cross model range will be launched in the UK in mid-October.
More details will be released at the Suzuki press conference starting from 9:00 a.m. on 29th September 2016 and the Suzuki booth is positioned at stand 511, Hall 1.0, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. If you are attending the show this year we look forward to welcoming you.