New body kits are available for performance Golfs, making them even more aggressive.

• Oettinger unveils body kits for Performance Golf models
• Includes exhaust and muffler for enhanced engine noise
• Kits are available to order now from £3,995 (RRP)

Volkswagen’s Performance Golf line-up includes the powerful GTD, the iconic GTI and the peerless R.  This trio thrills and entertains drivers worldwide, and springs from Volkswagen’s engineering knowledge and driver-focused research and development.

The striking proportions of the Performance Golfs’ exterior design combines with the precision handling of the models to place this trio at the forefront of the Golf range.  

Now Oettinger is offering the option of adding individual style to the mix via a new body kit, which also comes with a revised silencer.

The stainless steel exhaust system is a quad set-up, which means the GTD gains exhaust tailpipes on the right of the car, while the GTI increases its number of tailpipes from two to four.  The R, meanwhile, receives honed quad tailpipes.  For all models, the exhaust tailpipe is 84 mm in diameter.  In addition, the Oettinger muffler alters the exhaust note to produce an even more sporty sound.  The R goes a step further, with the addition of honed quad tailpipes.

Complementing the quad exhaust system is a purposeful rear diffuser.  This offers enhanced aerodynamic ability, and the styling of the diffuser aligns perfectly with the look of Oettinger’s side skirts.  Above the diffuser is a new rear roof spoiler which incorporates open flaps and, thus, underlines the powerful appearance that the Oettinger body kit brings to the trio of potent Golfs.

At the front, the Oettinger kit adds a new spoiler and bespoke splitter.  These elements guide air under the car effectively, and align perfectly with the carefully tuned aerodynamics of the Performance Golfs.  The Oettinger body kit has been perfected in wind tunnels to make sure it reaches the highest quality levels demanded by Volkswagen.

Oettinger’s experience in working with Volkswagen stretches back more than 70 years, when Gerhard Oettinger took a Beetle into the world of rallying.  Later, he upped the power of his Golf Mk I from 70 PS to 75 PS.  When the Golf GTI Mk I was unveiled in 1976 Oettinger got to work again, this time with a focus on engine tuning.  He continued to develop Volkswagen cars until his death in 1997. From its base in Friedrichsdorf, near Frankfurt, the Oettinger company continues with the same passion and dedication that its founder imparted into his projects.

The Oettinger body kit is available now at Volkswagen Retailers throughout the UK and costs £3,995 (RRP) for the GTD and GTI versions, and £5,225 (RRP) for the Golf R.  This includes VAT, painting and fitting.

Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster available from £110,145 topping out at £143,245 for the GT R model.

• Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster available from £110,145
• Range-topping Mercedes-AMG GT R costs £143,245

The new Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster is now on sale, priced from £110,145. The AMG GT C Roadster starts at £139,445, while the AMG GT R is available from £143,245.

The GT range features a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 engine; in the GT Roadster this generates 476 hp, while the GT C Roadster adds an additional 81 hp (557 hp). 

The GT Roadster can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 4.0 seconds, while in the GT C Roadster it takes just 3.7 seconds. The GT Roadster emits 219 g/km of CO₂ and delivers up to 30.1 mpg on the combined cycle, meanwhile the GT C Roadster emits 259 g/km and can achieve 24.8 mpg.

Both roadsters come with a three-layer fabric roof available in one of three colours (black, beige or dark red) at no extra cost. The roof opens or closes electrically in around eleven seconds, and can be operated at speeds of up to 31 mph.

The GT Roadster comes as standard with 19-inch alloy wheels; AMG Panamericana grille; wind deflector; AMG performance exhaust system; heated AMG sports seats with Airscarf; and black Nappa leather upholstery.

The GT C Roadster has 19/20-inch alloy wheels (front/back); Burmester surround sound; Parktronic with reversing camera; AMG sports seats with Airscarf; Keyless-Go package; Active Air Control system (flaps in the lower front bumper adjust according to the vehicle speed – thus increasing high-speed stability and reducing drag); AMG Panamericana grille; AMG performance steering wheel finished in Nappa leather and Dinamica microfibre; and red brake calipers with ‘AMG’ lettering.

The Premium equipment line costs £4,195 (standard on GT C Roadster), and includes Keyless-Go package; Mirror package; door sill panels in brushed stainless steel with ‘AMG’ lettering; Burmester surround sound system; Parktronic with reversing camera.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT R

At the top of the GT range, the AMG GT R Coupé generates 585 hp and 700 Nm and can travel from 0 to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds. It emits 259 g/km of CO₂ and delivers a combined fuel economy of 24.8 mpg.

The GT R comes as standard with AMG sports bucket seats; carbon fibre roof; AMG Panamericana grille; AMG GT R bodystyling; yellow brake calipers; AMG performance exhaust system; static rear aerofoil; AMG sports bucket seats; 19/20-inch alloy wheels (front/back); Parktronic, AMG Interior Night package (including: black door sills; steering wheel gear shift panels in black; black inserts below head restraints; black strut in the luggage compartment); sports tyres; and AMG performance steering wheel in black Dinamica microfibre.

The Premium package is also available on the AMG GT R – for £4,195 – with the addition of heated seats.

The AMG Track package costs £1,685 and adds four point seat belt harnesses; a fire extinguisher; and a roll cage. Carbon ceramic brakes can be added for £5,995.

For £595, customers can add the Lane Tracking package which includes Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist. Alternatively, for £1,695, the Driving Assistance package adds Distronic Plus and the Pre-Safe system – in addition to the contents of the Lane Tracking package.

The AMG green hell magno paint – as seen from the car’s launch – is a £7,500 option. Yellow seat belts are also optionally available for £395.

The AMG Carbon Fibre package costs £3,895 and adds exterior styling details with a carbon fibre finish. The AMG Matt Black Carbon Fibre Trim package costs £2,995 and adds Carbon Fibre,  detailing to the interior trim.

Pricing for the Mercedes-AMG GT range:

Model                                                  OTR price

Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé                     £98,195

Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster                 £110,145

Mercedes-AMG GT S Coupe                  £111,495

Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster              £139,445

Mercedes-AMG GT R Coupé                  £143,245

GENEVA - No motor show is complete without a new 911 derivative, and it's no change here.

Low volume special series with powerful naturally aspirated engine and manual transmission

Unveiled  at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show, the new Porsche 911 R is a pure-bred sports car built to conform to a time-honoured formula; a powerful 500 hp (368 kW) four-litre naturally-aspirated flat-six engine driving the rear wheels, a six-speed manual transmission, and a lightweight body. It is also limited to just 991 examples worldwide.

These characteristics place the 911 R firmly in the tradition of its historic namesake: a road-homologated racing car from 1967. Produced as part of a limited production series, the original 911 R was campaigned in iconic road races of the period, such as the Tour de France and Targa Florio, and also in world record runs.

Like its legendary predecessor, the new 911 R offers an unfiltered driving experience, delivered via systematic lightweight construction and a devotion to maximum performance: this special model has an overall weight of 1,370 kilograms and is thus the lightest version of the 911. 

With a high-revving six-cylinder naturally aspirated engine and manual sports transmission, Porsche is once again underlining its commitment to especially emotional high-performance sports cars. Developed in the Motorsport workshop, the 911 R extends the spectrum of high-performance naturally-aspirated engines alongside the motor sport-inspired, track-bred models 911 GT3 and 911 GT3 RS.

In the rear of the 911 R lies the charismatic flat-six 'boxer' engine with a displacement of four-litres, familiar from the 911 GT3 RS. The race-bred engine delivers 500 hp at 8,250 rpm and generates 460 Nm at 6,250 rpm.

From a standing start, 0-60 mph is possible in 3.7 seconds. In keeping with the pure character of the 911 R, it is available exclusively with a six-speed manual sports transmission. The short gearshift travel emphasises the interactive driving experience. The forward thrust of the 911 R continues to a potential top speed of 201 mph (323 km/h), and Combined NEDC fuel consumption is 21.2 mpg (13.3 l/100 km).

A thoroughbred driving machine: technology from the race track

The 911 R could almost have been made for twisting roads. Fitted as standard with specially-tuned rear-axle steering, direct turn-in and precise handling is guaranteed while maintaining high stability. In addition, the mechanical rear limited slip differential ensures maximum traction.

Ensuring the greatest possible deceleration are Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), also fitted as standard. The discs measure a generous 410 mm diameter on the front axle and 390 mm on the rear. Ultra High Performance Tyres of 245 mm width at the front and 305 mm width at the rear provide assured contact to the road. These are mounted on lightweight, forged aluminium wheels with centre-locking and matt-finish.

Motorsport development has adapted the control systems of the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) for the 911 R, tailoring the car for a focused and authentic driving experience. An optional single-mass flywheel for the engine is one example of this, resulting in a significant improvement in spontaneity and high-rev responsiveness of the engine. A double-declutch function - activated by pressing a button - for perfect gearshifts when changing down is also part of the repertoire of the 911 R.

For broad everyday versatility, a lift system can also be ordered: it raises ground clearance of the front axle by approximately 30 mm at the touch of a button.

With an overall weight of 1,370 kg, the 911 R undercuts the 911 GT3 RS by 50 kg. The bonnet and front wheel-arches are made of carbonfibre and the roof is magnesium, which reduces the centre of gravity. Rear windscreen and rear side windows are lightweight plastic. Additional weight-saving factors are the reduced sound insulation in the interior and the omission of a rear bench seat.

The optional air conditioning system and the audio system also hint at the intense slimming regime.

Wolf in sheep's clothing: classic 911 look with GT motor racing technology

From the exterior, the 911 R gives a reserved impression. At first sight, the body resembles that of the Carrera. The nose and rear body will be familiar from the 911 GT3, and hint at the birthplace of the 911 R: namely the motorsport department in Flacht. In technical terms therefore, the 911 R has a lot to show under the skin: namely the drive technology from the 911 GT3 RS.

All the lightweight components of the body and the complete chassis originate from the 911 GT3. However, with a view to road use, the body does not have the fixed rear wing familiar with that model. Instead, a retractable rear spoiler shared with the Carrera models and a bespoke aerodynamic diffuser beneath the rear underbody provides the necessary downforce.

The front and rear apron come from the 911 GT3, with a re-designed spoiler lip installed on the front. The sports exhaust system consists of the lightweight construction material titanium.

Continuous coloured stripes in red or green over the entire mid-section of the vehicle provide a visual cue to the legendary predecessor. A further leitmotif is provided by the 'Porsche' script along each side of the vehicle.

The driver and front passenger sit in a carbon-fibre bucket seat, trimmed with bespoke fabric centre panels in Pepita tartan design, a nod to the first 911 in the 1960s. Fabric pull straps on each door are a familiar hint to the focused intent of all 911 models from the GT department.

Ahead of the driver sits an R-specific 360 mm diameter GT sport steering wheel, and a short shift gearlever - not to mention the obvious clutch pedal in the footwell - contribute to the specific interior ambience. And underlining the special nature of this limited production model, carbon trim strips in the interior with an embedded aluminum badge on the passenger's side indicate the limited number of each 911 R.

Launch and prices

The new Porsche 911 R is available to order from today in Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland, priced from £136,901. Limited to 991 units worldwide, first UK deliveries are scheduled for June.

The 911 R is arguably the ultimate road-focused 911 in the 53 year history of the model. It is certain to be appreciated by long-standing fans of the 911, and in particular those customers that have consistently owned, lived with and driven successive generations of this iconic sports car.

USA - Jaguar announces the 2017 Model Year F-Type range with price cuts and new technology to boost sales.

• 2017 Model Year F-TYPE lineup to include new $61,400¹ F-TYPE Coupe and new $65,400¹ F-TYPE Convertible entry models, reducing available cost of entry to the sports car family by $3,600 and $2,700 respectively
• Standard Best-in-Class Jaguar EliteCare Ownership Package² Featuring New Vehicle Limited Warranty, Roadside Assistance, Jaguar InControl® Protect & Remote™ and the Longest Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance Package of any Luxury Brand in the Market

Jaguar North America today announced it will expand the price range of the F-TYPE lineup in the U.S. for the 2017 model year to include new entry-level coupe and convertible models which lower the introductory price of the F-TYPE Coupe & Convertible to $61,400¹ and $65,400¹respectively.

The 2017 line-up of Jaguar sports cars will continue to consist of the F-TYPE, F-TYPE S and the range topping F-TYPE R. The addition of a new entry price level for 2017. 

Jaguar F-TYPE builds upon the pricing realignment strategy announced as part of The Next Generation of Jaguar for the 2016 model year in which an improved competitive value position was brought to market through a combination of new entry priced models, increased standard equipment and lower MSRPs that all help the brand target the heart of the luxury market.

The new entry model F-TYPE will feature a supercharged 340-hp 3.0L V6 mated to the 6-speed manual transmission. Entry models with rear-wheel drive and Quickshift automatic transmission configurations will also be available. 

The new derivatives come standard with a fixed metal roof in the coupe configuration and a new 6-way adjustable partially electric seat, as well as new standard features such as a valet mode and solar attenuating windshield glass. 

On an equipment adjusted basis, this new model represents an overall savings of about $1,700 over the previous model year F-TYPE and gives customers a new lower price point for getting into the vehicle.

The F-TYPE continues to come standard with important features such as the Meridian™ 770W surround sound audio system, navigation, SiriusXM^® Satellite Radio, leather and suedecloth finished sport seats and Jaguar InControl^® Apps™. Further options can be outfitted on F-TYPE models individually or with a new Premium trim/option package.

Building on the expanded product line-up and more competitive pricing, every 2017 model year F-TYPE and all 2017 Jaguar models will come standard with Jaguar EliteCare coverage for added peace of mind. 

First announced for the 2016 model year, Jaguar EliteCare is a best-in-class² ownership package offering a new vehicle limited warranty with complimentary scheduled maintenance, roadside assistance and Jaguar InControl^® Protect & Remote^TM for five-years or 60,000 miles – whichever comes first.

The 2017 Jaguar F-TYPE will be available in U.S. showrooms late Spring of 2016.

¹All prices shown are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Excludes $995 destination/handling charge, tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for details.

² Class is cars sold by luxury automobile brands and claim is based on total package of warranty, maintenance and other coverage programs. For complete details regarding Jaguar EliteCare coverage, please visit JAGUARUSA.COM, call 1.800.4.JAGUAR or visit your local Jaguar Retailer.

Remember, Remember the 5th November, well, not for that, but the launch of the All-New Hot Hatch from Peugeot.

• Full prices and specifications of eagerly-awaited flagship 308 are revealed
• Two versions with different power outputs maximise customer choice
• Developed by PEUGEOT SPORT for exceptional performance and race-bred pedigree
• Stylish specification inside and out look to ensure it becomes the best all-round hot hatch

Remember, remember the fifth of November… because the iconic PEUGEOT GTi badge is returning to the medium car segment for the first time since the 1990s, and all is set for a thrilling performance. One of the most eagerly-anticipated new model launches of 2015, the 308 GTi by PEUGEOT SPORT is a high-end performance ‘hot hatch’ designed with the sophisticated and enthusiastic driver in mind.

Launched as a high-performance model for the 308 range – itself winner of the prestigious 2014 European Car of the Year – the 308 GTi has been extensively developed by PEUGEOT SPORT - the Brand’s in-house team of motor sport engineers that boasts a wealth of expertise and success in the performance road car and international competition fields. The 308 GTi is the fourth road car project in three years following the critically acclaimed RCZ R, 208 GTi 30^th and 208 GTi by PEUGEOT SPORT.

The letters GTi only ever feature on PEUGEOT products with the highest performance. An acronym of Grand Tourer Injection, it’s a badge which has become shorthand for the hot hatch segment – a sector in which PEUGEOT has more than played its part. Products such as the 205 GTi and 309 GTi have acquired near-classic status in the decades since launch, and remain hugely popular with owners who appreciate their exceptional dynamic performance.

The 308 GTi continues in the same vein. Due to the dedication of the PEUGEOT SPORT team, the GTi offers customers a striking new interpretation of the 308’s sleek exterior design, enhanced sports-oriented interior detailing and an unparalleled driving experience with strong desirability and following.

Powered by the most-powerful engine of its size, the state-of-the-art 1.6-litre THP petrol engine with Stop&Start (S&S) technology is available in two power outputs – 250hp and 270hp – with both providing impressive performance; limited to 155mph. Even the environmental credentials are class-leading, with CO₂emissions at just 139g/km, while official Combined Cycle fuel economy is 47.0mpg.

With both models weighing in at just 1205kg this enables the 308 GTi 250 to sprint to 62mph in just 6.2 seconds, with a power-to-weight ratio of just 4.82kg/hp. The 308 GTi 270 sets a new segment record for power-to-weight – at just 4.46kg/hp – and reaches 62mph in a mere 6.0 seconds flat.

Key to the appeal of the 270 GTi is its Torsen® limited-slip differential, fitted as standard. Designed to improve cornering by channeling the torque to the wheel with the greatest traction, it also makes it possible to drive faster around corners and enhance grip and handling.

The 270 GTi is also equipped with 2.3kg lighter 19” ‘Carbone’ lightweight alloy wheels shod with the latest Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. The design showcases the highly-capable 380mm ventilated front brake discs with solid red four-piston PEUGEOT SPORT signature calipers.

The 308 GTi boasts purposeful new styling, sitting 11mm lower to the ground than its siblings. Aggressive new front and rear design elements have been added, with six distinctive exterior colours available – new Ultimate Red, Pearlescent White, Magnetic Blue, Nera Black, Cumulus Grey and Hurricane Grey. For the most eye-catching look, a ‘Coupe Franche’ two-tone design is exclusive to the 308 GTi 270, contrasting Ultimate Red with Nera Black.

The interior has been carefully specified to complement the 308 GTi’s exterior, subtly emphasising its sporting credentials. The door sill carries the PEUGEOT SPORT and GTi signature, while the foot pedals, foot rest and gear knob are finished in aluminum. Red stitching features on the upholstery, door panels, gear lever and premium floor mats. The GTi 270 features PEUGEOT SPORT race-inspired seats, upholstered in leather effect and Alcantara, which provide enhanced lateral support.

The compact steering wheel – an integral part of the 308’s acclaimed PEUGEOT i-Cockpit cabin design – provides natural grip and precise direction. It features full-grain leather with a GTi logo at the base and a red centring mark at the top. The head-up display instrument panel read-outs has a chequered backdrop, and a GTi greets the driver on start-up.

A 9.7” centrally mounted touch-screen forms a seamless part of the instrument panel, with its Redline theme adding a final touch of flair to the interior. The user-friendly feel of the cockpit promotes safe, instinctive driving control – crucial for a car that packs such a punch.

Standard equipment on the 308 GTi includes a Driver Sport Pack, which allows owners to ramp up the high-octane feel. Pressing the Sport button on the centre console switches the display colour from white to red, and shows additional information on the central read-out. It also enhances engine noise growl and changes the accelerator pedal mapping.

Also standard is red ‘PEUGEOT’ lettering on the grille, sports side skirts, new twin exhaust system with black diffuser, GTi badging, full LED headlamps, front LED sequential indicators, reversing camera, front and rear parking sensors, PEUGEOT Open & Go (keyless entry & push button start), satellite navigation and DAB digital radio. The GTi 250 has 18-inch ‘Diamant’ alloy wheels while the GTi 270 the larger 19” ‘Carbone’ lightweight alloy wheels.

The PEUGEOT 308 GTi 250 is priced at £26,555 on the road, while the PEUGEOT 308 GTi 270 (which has more power, the Torsen differential, 19” wheels, larger front brakes and sports seats) is priced at £28,155. The sports seats at £800 and 19” ‘Carbone’ lightweight alloy wheels with Michelin Super Sport tyres at £800 are available separately on the GTi 250 model. The exclusive Coupe Franche with Ultimate Red / Nera Black paint finish (exclusive to the GTi 270 model only) is £1,300.

British sportscar manufacturer, Caterham Cars, is expanding again, this time a new dealer is Dubai.

British sportscar manufacturer, Caterham Cars, is expanding its growing global dealer network with the appointment of a new distributor in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Distinguished dealer group, Al Futtaim, has just taken delivery of its first Caterham Seven and has opened its showroom in Festival City, Dubai.

ERAS Customs and Classics is the largest British Heritage sportscar dealership in the Middle East. In addition to catering for new car buyers, the facility will offer a full after sales service to Caterham owners in the UAE.

The launch firmly establishes Caterham’s presence in the UAE, and the state of the art premises will showcase Caterham’s full range of ultra-lightweight sportscars; including the entry level Seven 160, and the recently-launched 270, 360 and 420 models and the legendary 620 R*.

ERAS Customs and Classics is the third international Caterham dealership to open this year, with new showrooms recently opened in Belgium and Germany. The British sportscar manufacturer now has an emerging network of over 60 dealerships across 26 countries worldwide.

David Ridley, Caterham Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are thrilled to establish Caterham’s presence in the UAE with ERAS Customs and Classics; as the largest British Heritage sportscar outlet in Dubai they were the natural choice for us. Dubai’s love of Supercars is globally renowned; we’re looking forward to seeing Sevens driving through the city.

“Last year, we achieved record-breaking export sales with an increase of 6% year on year, with the introduction of the brand new Seven 270 this year, we’re able to reach even more sportscar enthusiasts, and I am looking forward to building on our success with the team in Dubai.”

Caterham Cars at ERAS Customs and Classics is located on:

Marsa Plaza Showroom, Dubai Festival City, Dubai

Caterham continues expansion with two new dealers in the United Kingdom.

Caterham Cars has appointed two new UK dealers - one in the north and one in the south – as it continues to expand its network on home soil.

Oakmere Motor Group in Cheshire and Williams Automobiles near Bristol have been signed up by the iconic brand to sell its full range of lightweight sportscars, with demonstrator cars already in place at both dealerships.

Both businesses are already well-versed in the selling, servicing and maintenance of used Caterham Sevens but will now stock the recently-extended range of new cars, from Seven 160 to Seven 620R.

Caterham has steadily been growing its sales network both in the UK and internationally in the last few years. More UK dealers are expected to be added in the coming months.

Caterham’s Chief Commercial Officer, David Ridley, said: “Last year was a record year for Caterham in terms of export sales as demand increased for our products. But, while we are intent on growing our business globally, we have not forgotten our roots and the expansion of the UK network is a reflection of the importance we place on our customers here at home.”

Oakmere Motor Group is a family-owned and run business based in Northwich, near Oulton Park race track. For several years, it was one of the largest TVR dealerships in the country and has an excellent understanding of hand-built British sportscars.

Managing director, Jonathan Jarratt, said: “I am passionate about Caterham, having personally owned a number of them over the years and I know our staff share my passion.

“We have sold and maintained many Caterhams over the years and are therefore no strangers to keeping them in tip top shape. We are planning a launch event very soon but, in the meantime, we would love to see as many Caterham owners and enthusiasts at our dealership as possible and would be delighted to give them the guided tour; the kettle is always on.”

Williams Automobiles, based in Chipping Sodbury near Bristol, is one of the UK’s oldest Lotus and Morgan dealerships, having been established by the Williams family in 1911. Like Oakmere, the business is well-versed in servicing and dealing in second-hand Sevens and is heavily involved in domestic motorsport activities.

Business owner and dealer principal, Henry Williams, said: “Caterham has always been a brand I have been interested in. It has an exciting product line-up and there is nothing really close to it elsewhere in the market.”