MG Motor UK’s stylish Supermini, the MG3, has reclaimed its top spot as the lowest priced car on the Motability Scheme.

• UK car brand reclaims title as best priced car on scheme 

MG Motor UK’s stylish Supermini, the MG3, has reclaimed its top spot as the lowest priced car on the Motability Scheme, meaning you could drive away a brand-new MG3 Form Sport with DAB radio, cruise control and smartphone integration for just £48.25 a week.

This offer is available to people on the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (HRMC DLA), the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (ERMC PIP) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) schemes. 

In addition, the MG3 Form Sport can be leased at a similarly competitive rate for people on the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS).

Priced over a three-year fixed lease agreement, the MG3 costs less than the total mobility allowance, which means the remainder of your allowance will be paid directly to you by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This equates to almost £1,404 in savings over the three-year period, which can be used towards fuel and parking.

The MG3 Form Sport comes packed full of features including a leather sport steering wheel, Bluetooth, 16” alloy-wheels and six speakers as standard. The worry-free lease also includes insurance for two named drivers, servicing, maintenance and full breakdown assistance from the RAC. If adaptations are required, many of these are available at no additional cost too.

Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG Motor UK, added: “Nearly two thirds of MG dealerships have a Motability-trained specialist who can provide expert advice to customers and the number is growing. We believe the Motability Scheme is a great initiative and we are proud to once again be in the top spot.”

Awarded 4.5 out of 5 stars by AA Cars, the MG3 was praised for coming with many features other manufacturers would charge for. Economical, with good acceleration and an excellent driving position, there’s a lot to love about the stylish MG3.

Volvo Car UK has imprved further its top range of cars with the addition of Android Auto.

• Android Auto joins existing Apple CarPlay smartphone integration
• Allows users to access their Android phone’s functions directly from the car’s Sensus infotainment system
• Available now on all S90, V90, V90 Cross Country and XC90 models

Volvo Car UK has further improved its in-car connectivity with the introduction of Android Auto smartphone integration to its range-topping 90 series models.

Android Auto, which is now available as part of a new Smartphone Integration package that also includes Apple CarPlay, allows users of Android smartphones to connect their device directly to their Volvo’s Sensus media system. 

A wide range of Android-optimised apps – including Google Maps and Google Play Music – are then available directly via the car’s touch screen. Users can also make and receive calls, and send and receive text messages using Android Auto. 

Alternatively, these functions can be controlled using the car’s or the phone’s sophisticated voice control system, so users can stay connected while keeping their eyes safely on the road at all times.

Thanks to the touch screen’s large size and portrait layout, the Android Auto apps are displayed in the bottom section of the screen, leaving the top of the screen free to display the car’s other main functions, further enhancing the system’s ease of use.

Jon Wakefield, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK, said: “It’s more important than ever for our customers to stay connected while on the move. Our Apple CarPlay integration was already the best in the business, and the introduction of Android Auto brings our class-leading smartphone integration to a whole new audience.”

Smartphone Integration includes a second USB socket and is available now on the S90, V90, V90 Cross Country and XC90, priced at £300. Existing owners of these models (those built after April 2016) who already have Apple CarPlay can benefit from a complimentary upgrade to Smartphone Integration as part of their car’s routine servicing schedule at an authorised Volvo dealership.

Android Auto is available on any Android smartphone running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.

For more information on the Volvo range and Android Auto, please visit www.volvocars.com/uk/about/our-innovations/connected-car/smartphone-integration

Mitsubishi launches a special Edition Outlander PHEV model, the Juro, adds a host of standard kit and toys.

For the same price as the Outlander PHEV GX3h+ on which it is based, £32,749^[1], the limited edition Juro offers the added convenience of a touchscreen CD/DVD infotainment unit with TomTom satellite navigation, smartphone integration and DAB radio as standard, while the exterior is enhanced with an Outlander bonnet emblem.

As you would expect from the UK’s best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Juro comes fully loaded with a host of other features, including cruise control, 18” alloy wheels, heated front seats, the Mitsubishi PHEV app and dual-zone climate control.

The Outlander PHEV can travel up to 32 miles in electric mode alone – more than enough to accommodate most daily average journeys – and has effectively defined the emergence of the UK's plug-in hybrid sector.

In 2013, the year before its arrival, the total plug-in hybrid market across all marques stood at just 989, but Mitsubishi has sold more than 25,000 Outlander PHEVs in the UK since the pioneering 4x4’s launch here in 2014, making it the nation’s favourite plug-in vehicle.

Specification

The Outlander PHEV Juro full specification is as follows:

• Touchscreen CD/DVD audio unit with TomTom satellite navigation
• Smartphone integration (Android Auto/Apple CarPlay)
• DAB radio
• Outlander bonnet emblem
• Pre-heater
• Mitsubishi PHEV app
• Heated front seats
• 18” alloy wheels
• Cruise control
• Dual-zone climate control air conditioning
• Privacy glass
• Electric folding/heating mirrors with indicators
• Leather steering wheel
• Steering wheel audio controls
• Bluetooth hands-free
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
• Chrome beltline moulding
• Hi-tech seat fabric – C-Tec
• LED daytime running lights
• 12V sockets in the front and centre console
• Sunglasses pocket

[1] Including Plug-In Car Grant

The vauxhall ADAM no comes with the R4.0 Intellilink System Infotainment technology as standard.

• R4.0 IntelliLink system available with smartphone integration
• IntelliLink touchscreen overview similar to smartphone menu
• Vauxhall OnStar turns ADAM into powerful internet on wheels

Vauxhall has introduced the latest-generation R4.0 IntelliLink system infotainment technology including smartphone integration to its stylish ADAM city car.

Following the introduction of the first-generation award-winning IntelliLink, this update promises to take individualisation even further, with an overview similar to a smartphone menu and the choice of well-known navigation including Apple Maps and Google Maps.

Vauxhall’s innovative OnStar is also now available on ADAM SLAM, S and ROCKS models, enabling personal connectivity and a service assistant while also becoming a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to seven mobile devices, even when abroad – with no additional roaming fees.

“The Vauxhall ADAM in all its variants is the perfect example of how much individuality and technology can be packed into a small car. And with the new smartphone-compatible IntelliLink system and Vauxhall OnStar, we boost our successful lifestyle city car onto a higher level,” said Stuart Harris, Vauxhall’s Head of Car Line Brand.

As usual, all this comes at very affordable prices: the infotainment system IntelliLink R4.0 is available for just £495 as part of the Technical Pack which also includes parking sensors.

The hardware for the personal connectivity and service assistant OnStar is free with ADAM SLAM, S and ROCKS while use of the Wi-Fi Hotspot is free of charge with all variants for the first 12 months following registration. This means private phone accounts are not charged, because those who connect their smartphones to OnStar enjoy free navigation.

IntelliLink R4.0

Praised for its clear seven-inch colour touchscreen, connectivity options via USB and Bluetooth for audio streaming and viewing photographs, videos and films or making a telephone call via the hands-free module – Vauxhall makes the latest generation of its IntelliLink system even more functional. The new IntelliLink R4.0, which made its debut at this year’s IAA Frankfurt Motor Show in the Astra, integrates the world of smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into the vehicle.

Drivers and passengers simply need devices from Android 5.0 Lollipop and Apple iOS 7.1 (from iPhone 5). It is fast and easy: simply connect the iPhone or Android smartphone to the IntelliLink R4.0 via USB, and the Vauxhall infotainment technology immediately recognises the systems and adapts the smartphone interface to the seven-inch IntelliLink touchscreen.

Drivers can make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri, when it is safe to do so. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem.

The Google Maps and Apple Maps navigation apps are easy to use: updates are automatically downloaded onto the phone by the respective provider, so the driver always has the latest map data online. Changing the size of the map section on Android Auto is simply done by touching the screen and pinching or zooming accordingly. Another advantage is that smartphone-based systems provide information on traffic conditions in real time along with possible points of interest – including the complete address, opening hours and further details. When a text message from services such as WhatsApp or Skype is received, Android users can have it read out loud to them so they can keep their eyes on the road.

OnStar

Vauxhall OnStar enables stable use of all internet-based services. The personal connectivity and service assistant with its special antenna turns the ADAM into a 4G/LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot. Up to seven mobile devices can be connected to the system at the same time – even abroad. No additional roaming fees are applied.

Vauxhall OnStar offers an all-round carefree package, with services including Automatic Crash Response, 24-hour Roadside and Stolen Vehicle Assistance and Vehicle Diagnostics to name but a few. The myVauxhall smartphone-app allows Vauxhall OnStar users to request help when away from the car, to open or close the car remotely or to access important vehicle data.

Vauxhall Corsa connects drivers with extensive infotainment offer, and one not to be missed.

• IntelliLink with smartphone integration as standard from Energy trim
• User-friendly interface via touchscreen with easy-to-navigate menu
• Choice of navigation applications including Apple Maps and Google Maps
• OnStar turns Corsa into powerful Wi-Fi Hotspot

Vauxhall is introducing its IntelliLink and OnStar systems to the small car segment, providing drivers with outstanding connectivity and entertainment with state-of-the-art in-car infotainment technology.

The Vauxhall Corsa is now available with the latest generation IntelliLink infotainment system as standard (excluding Sting and Sting R models), which only made its debut in the new Astra a few weeks ago. 

R4.0 IntelliLink easily integrates smartphone functions via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and is compatible with devices from Android 5.0 Lollipop and Apple iOS 7.1 (from iPhone 5).

Vauxhall OnStar, standard on SE, Limited, Black Edition, Red Edition and VXR Corsa models provides occupants with a stable and powerful internet connection. 

The personal connectivity, service assistant and integrated 4G/LTE architecture turn the Corsa into a Wi-Fi Hotspot, while numerous additional services make driving more relaxed.

“We do not just offer drivers of larger cars the opportunity of enjoying the latest connectivity and infotainment technology. We are making it available across our entire product portfolio with very attractive offerings,” said Simon Oldfield, Vauxhall’s Sales and Marketing Director. 

“The new R4.0 IntelliLink system with smartphone integration available for the Corsa is the perfect example. This system along with OnStar enables fast, stable and extensive internet access for every Corsa occupant.”

R4.0 IntelliLink with smartphone integration

The R4.0 IntelliLink system offers drivers a USB and Bluetooth interface for audio streaming and viewing photographs, videos and films, as well as the ability to complete a phone call via the hands-free module. All accessible through the seven-inch colour touchscreen, Vauxhall’s latest generation infotainment system is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Bringing the smartphone applications of each occupant into the car, the Vauxhall infotainment technology immediately recognises when an iPhone or Android smartphone is connected to the R4.0 IntelliLink via USB. 

As soon as the connection is made, the smartphone interface is adapted to the seven-inch touchscreen and displayed clearly, while simultaneously charging the device.

Each interface automatically populates the display in a smart and simple way with the applications and features that drivers rely on the most. Apple CarPlay allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. 

Alternatively, Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem. 

Full lists of supported apps are available at apple.com/ios/carplay and android.com/autorespectively.

A key advantage of using the navigation apps is that the driver always has the latest map data at their disposal as updates are made available by the respective provider and downloaded onto the phone. 

Furthermore, smartphone-based systems display traffic conditions in real time along with possible points of interest – including the complete address, opening hours and distance. 

Another advantage of the system is that when a text message from services such as WhatsApp or Skype is received it pops up on the IntelliLink screen (without the text) and is read aloud.

Vauxhall also offers an additional navigation option in the portable TomTom GO 40 system. The 4.3-inch colour touchscreen can be safely attached to the dashboard via the FlexDock^® holding device. 

The TomTom system comes with maps of 45 European countries, 3D display and selected points of interest. Furthermore, the traffic situation is displayed in real time if a smartphone is connected.

Vauxhall OnStar

OnStar is available as standard on SE, Limited and VXR Corsa models. The integrated 4G/LTE architecture turns the Corsa into a powerful mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot thanks to a special external antenna that maximises connectivity and delivers a stable internet connection for up to seven devices.

The extensive services are the heart and soul of the personal connectivity and service assistant. 

They range from around the clock Automatic Crash Response to Stolen Vehicle and Roadside Assistance, right up to Vehicle Diagnostics. All of these services are available at the push of a button through the system’s integrated SIM card, meaning a smartphone is not required. 

Elsewhere, a smartphone is needed for the MyVauxhall smartphone app, enabling OnStar subscribers to request help when away from the vehicle, to lock or unlock the car doors or to access important vehicle data.

OnStar services and Wi-Fi are free for the first year. A second year of OnStar services, including roadside assistance, but excluding Wi-Fi is available for just £79.

First pictures af the all-new Vauxhall Viva, the return of the iconic name.

• First official pictures of VIVA ahead of Spring 2015 launch
• Specially-developed 1.0-litre ECOTEC (75PS) powertrain
• Comfortable and practical with room for up to five people
• IntelliLink connectivity for seamless smartphone integration 

These are the first pictures of the VIVA, Vauxhall’s all-new five-door entry-level model. Arriving in Spring 2015, the VIVA will be the latest addition to Vauxhall’s small car range joining the fashionable ADAM and the popular Corsa supermini.

Design

With a name that pays homage to Vauxhall’s original Viva made from 1963 to 1979, the all-new VIVA shares the original’s philosophy of clean lines, durability and practicality.  It is designed for modern, everyday life and at 3.68 metres long is practical and spacious providing more than enough room for up to five people.

VIVA is the latest model in the range to display Vauxhall’s sculptured, precise design philosophy. Three strong feature lines swoop down the sides with the signature ‘blade’, seen previously on Insignia and GTC amongst others, slicing through the doors. The two others run through the front and rear door handles. The VIVA’s front end features a distinctive winged chrome bar that presents the Griffin badge.

Large headlights and taillights add to the vibrant appearance, creating an overall design that shows exceptional attention to detail for a vehicle in this class.

VIVA will be available in ten exterior paint colours with a variety of 14- to 16-inch wheels.

Powertrain and Chassis

After first appearing in the ADAM ROCKS AIR and subsequently the New Corsa, VIVA is the latest Vauxhall to feature its new 1.0-litre three-cylinder ECOTEC engine.  Specially-developed for VIVA, this 75PS powertrain is smooth, punchy and efficient, and is mated to a slick five-speed transmission.

VIVA’s chassis and steering have been developed to provide exceptional safety and class-leading comfort.

Equipment and Practicality

Like its stablemates ADAM and Corsa, VIVA is fully-connected thanks to the IntelliLink infotainment system, which allows seamless integration of Apple iOS and Android devices.

It’s also equipped with ESP featuring traction control, ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Hill Start Assist, which prevents the car from rolling back when starting on a slope.  Further safety options can be selected including Lane Departure Warning.

Another feature that VIVA shares with ADAM and Corsa is City mode which reduces steering effort at the push of a button. Park Assist alerts the driver to obstacles whilst parking plus there’s optional cruise control, sunroof, fog lights, heated front seats and heated steering wheel.

“Short, crisp and full of character, Vauxhall’s new entry-level model is a ‘proper’ small car and will hold great appeal in this rapidly growing sector,” said Tim Tozer, Vauxhall’s Chairman and Managing Director. “On sale next year at an extremely attractive price point, VIVA joins new Corsa and ADAM in a compelling small car portfolio, giving Vauxhall an unrivalled position in the small car market.”