Jeep launches a new ultra limited edition model of its evergreen Wrangler 4x4.

Jeep is expanding its Wrangler range of 4x4 vehicles with the introduction of a stunning limited edition, the Night Eagle. 

Revealed at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the Jeep Wrangler Night Eagle comes in a choice of striking colours with exclusive decals, and provides a unique style, premium equipment levels and, of course, Jeep’s legendary off-road capability. 

Just 66 examples of this special new arrival are bound for the UK – all fitted with Jeep’s 2.8-litre CRD 200hp turbo diesel engine paired to a five speed automatic gearbox. The engine gives the car a 0-62mph time of 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 107mph. The Euro 6 unit can return a combined 31.4mpg and has a 235g/km CO2 figure. 

Legendary Wrangler capability is achieved through the standard Command-Trac part-time, two-speed transfer case with a low-range gear ratio.

Finished in unique Xtreme Purple, Alpine White or Solid Black paint the Night Eagle receives distinctive decals on the bonnet and rear quarter panels, 18-inch mid-gloss black wheels, body-colour grille, mid-gloss black colour accents, headlamp rings and Jeep badge, body colour dual top, black fuel filler door, deep tint sunscreen glass and hard spare tyre cover. 

Inside, the new Night Eagle features standard black McKinley leather seats with black sport mesh fabric inserts and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with Diesel Gray accent stitching. A black vinyl-wrapped console lid and front door armrest with Diesel Gray accent stitching, Piano Black grab handle and vent ring bezels, and All-Weather slush mats complete the distinctive interior to this special edition model. 

The full standard equipment creates a comfortable, high-tech driving environment which includes the nine-speaker Alpine Premium Audio System with subwoofer and the Uconnect Navigation system with CD/DVD/MP3, 6.5-inches touchscreen, AUX and USB ports. 

The new Jeep Wrangler Night Eagle will cost £39,810 OTR when it goes on sale in the UK this week.

The New Musso from Ssangyong has had it's load capacity increased to 3.5 Tonne of towing capability.

• Towing capability increased to 3.5 tonnes
• 1 tonne payload and 2.04m² load bed to carry a Euro pallet
• 2.2 litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine
• 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission
• Best value pick-up from just £16,395 ex VAT 

SsangYong has announced an increase in the towing capacity of its Musso one-tonne pick-up to 3,500kg following approval by the VCA - the UK Vehicle Certification Agency responsible for Vehicle Type Approval.

Powered by a smooth and refined 2.2 litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine, the Musso pick-up delivers huge value. 

Designed to appeal to those who need a competitively priced work truck, the practicality of 4-wheel drive, the towing capability to haul up to 3.5 tonnes yet also the appointments of a family car, it’s ideal for towing a horse box, boat or work trailer. 

“This is great news for customers looking for a value for money pick-up and who need to tow a heavy trailer,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.

“With one of the most powerful engines in its class, a refined automatic gearbox and car like ride - thanks to its multilink rear suspension, Musso sales have really taken off since its launch last autumn”, adds Mr Williams. “Tough and robust with a specification, price and warranty no others can match, the facts clearly position the Musso as the top value truck in the pick-up market.” 

The Musso features a newly developed Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine to meet the demand for a more powerful performance and lower CO₂ emissions at the same time. Maximum power is 178PS and torque 400Nm, with maximum torque delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm for smooth, progressive driving from the start.

The Musso is fitted with multi-link rear suspension and progressive rear coil springs - the only pick-up at this price to offer such a system - which gives a relaxed and comfortable car-like ride, while also carrying over a tonne weight on its load deck. 

There are two models in the range. The SE includes a new-look front grille and dashboard, as well as silver finish 18” alloy wheels and hard wearing ‘leather look’ TPU seat upholstery. It is priced from just £16,395 ex VAT. 

The EX is distinguished by black 18” alloy wheels, roof rails, front LED daytime running lights, leather with heated front seats, power operated driver’s seat, automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, 7” touchscreen RDS radio with iPod and Bluetooth. The EX with manual transmission is priced at £18,395 ex VAT, and with a six speed Aisin automatic £19,395 ex VAT.

5-year limitless mileage warranty

As with all models in the SsangYong LCV range, the Musso one tonne pick-up is covered by a 5-year limitless mileage warranty. 

Designed to be totally transparent and give customers complete peace of mind, ‘limitless’ means just that: not a maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print. 

All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system. Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.

The D-Max from Isuzu gets a much needed overhaul and now becomes a far superior product

The new generation D-Max arrives in the UK this Spring, and customers can now register their interest in the new truck.

D-Max has been extensively overhauled with the biggest changes under the bonnet. A brand new 1.9 litre turbo diesel engine has been fitted, which produces 164 PS and 360Nm of torque. 

The engine builds upon D-Max’s workhorse character and retains the 3.5 tonne towing capacity and 1 tonne payload whilst providing a quieter, more refined and economical driving experience.  

Another key benefit is that the new engine meets Euro 6 standards without the need for addition of AdBlue.

As per previous D-Max models, Shift-On-The-Fly 4x4 is a key feature of the 17MY truck. The rotary dial allows the driver to select four-wheel drive on the move as well as low range gears.

Finally, the D-Max comes with a five-year / 125,000-mile warranty, and was the first pick-up in the UK to be offered with such a comprehensive peace-of-mind package.

 Running costs are kept down by 12,000-mile or 24-month service intervals, five years recovery and European cover, a three-year paint warranty, and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Ssangyong launches the new Musso, a re-branded Korando One Tonne Pick Up Truck, better allround.

• New 2.2 litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine
• Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission
• 1 tonne payload and 2.04m² load bed to carry a Euro pallet
• 3 tonne towing capability
• Prices from just £15,995 ex VAT

SsangYong has announced the launch of the Musso one-tonne pick-up.

Powered by a smooth and refined 2.2 litre Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine, the new Musso pick-up delivers huge value.

Designed to appeal to those who need a competitively priced work truck, the practicality of 4-wheel drive, the towing capability to haul up to 3 tonnes yet also the appointments of a family car, it’s ideal for towing a work trailer, boat trailer or horse box.

“Our commercial vehicles represent an intrinsic part of the SsangYong range,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK, “and we decided to reintroduce the Musso name to differentiate this superb utility truck from our passenger cars.  

Musso - which means rhinoceros in Korean - is a tough, robust proposition for any trade, and with a specification, price and warranty no others can compete with.”

The new Musso goes on sale in the UK this month, and will feature a newly developed Euro 6 turbo-diesel engine to meet the demand for a more powerful performance and lower CO2 emissions at the same time.  Maximum power is 178PS and torque 400Nm, with maximum torque delivered from a low of 1,400rpm and maintained through a wide range up to 2,800rpm for smooth, progressive driving from the start.

The new Musso is fitted with multi-link rear suspension and progressive rear coil springs - the only pick-up at this price to offer such a system - which gives a relaxed and comfortable car-like ride, while also carrying over a tonne weight on its load deck.

There are two models in the range.  The SE includes a new-look front grille and dashboard, as well as silver finish 18” alloy wheels and hard wearing ‘leather look’ TPU seat upholstery.  It is priced from just £15,995 ex VAT.

The EX is distinguished by black 18” alloy wheels, roof rails, front LED daytime running lights, leather with heated front seats, power operated driver’s seat, automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers, 7” touchscreen RDS radio with iPod and Bluetooth.  The EX with manual transmission is priced at £17,995 ex VAT, and with a six speed Aisin automatic £18,995 ex VAT.

5 year limitless mileage warranty

As with all models in the SsangYong LCV range, the new Musso one tonne pick-up is covered by a 5 year limitless mileage warranty.

Designed to be totally transparent and give customers complete peace of mind, ‘limitless’ means just that: not a maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print.

All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system.  Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.

Ssangyong to debut two new concepts at Paris.

• Global debut of XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure, the final development concepts of X100
• B-segment SUV offers style and practicality

SsangYong Motor Company (CEO Yoo-il Lee; www.smotor.com) will unveil two development concepts, XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure at the 2014 Paris Motor Show, Paris Expo, Porte de Versailles, 2^nd (press day) to 19^thOctober.

XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure are powered by either a 1.6 litre petrol or 1.6 litre diesel engine that meet Euro 6 emission standards, and measure 4,195mm in length and with a 2,600mm wheelbase.  These two new concepts offer style, practicality and convenience for the smart user, and the new car will go on sale next year.

The XIV-Air and XIV-Adventure are near production ready concepts of the soon to be launched X100.  

Based on the brand’s development philosophy of ‘Robust, Specialty and Premium’ and design theme of ‘Nature born - 3 Motion’, the XIV (eXciting user-Interface Vehicle) is a B-segment SUV series that has been shown at previous international motor shows over the past four years, the first time beginning at the IAA Frankfurt in 2011.

Vauxhall continues new engine roll out with brand new 2.0L Diesel

• New generation 2.0 CDTi (170PS) premiers in Insignia and Zafira Tourer
• Power density increased: fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions reduced
• Outstanding running refinement with low noise, vibration and harshness
• Selective Catalytic Reduction enables Euro 6 compliance

With 170PS and 400Nm, Vauxhall’s all-new 2.0-litre CDTi diesel engine will debut at next month’s 2014 Paris Motor Show (4^th – 19^th October).

The new state-of-the-art unit will be revealed in the Insignia and Zafria Tourer as Vauxhall continues the roll out of its new powertrain portfolio. The new engine replaces the current 2.0 CDTi (163PS) engine at the top of Vauxhall’s diesel range.

This highly efficient, Euro 6-compliant engine delivers almost five per cent more power and 14 per cent more torque while reducing fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

The engine is also impressively quiet and smooth as a result of Vauxhall’s unwavering focus on ‘sound engineering’ measures to minimise NVH (noise, vibration, harshness). Engine noise has been reduced by five decibels.

The new engine’s power density is 85PS per litre, the same as Vauxhall’s much-lauded 1.6 CDTi ‘Whisper Diesel’ unit. Impressive torque of 400Nm is available from 1,750 to 2,500rpm, and maximum power of 170PS is accessed at just 3,750rpm.

The new 2.0 CDTi runs as clean as a petrol engine thanks to Vauxhall’s BlueInjection Selective Catalytic Reduction system. BlueInjection is an after-treatment which removes NOx from the engine’s exhaust gases.

“This sophisticated engine makes a perfect partner for our top models including Insignia and Zafira Tourer,” said Stuart Harris, Vauxhall’s Head of Carline Brand. “Its high power density, refinement and frugality place it among the very best diesels in its class.”

Available next year, the new 2.0 CDTi is the first in a new family of large diesel engines developed in-house by a global team of engineers in Turin and Rüsselsheim supported by engineers in North America. It will be manufactured at Opel/Vauxhall’s Kaiserslautern engine plant in Germany.

“This excellent new powertrain is part of the company’s €4 billion investment in product and powertrain development, which is helping to bring 23 new products and 13 new engines to market” said Tim Tozer, Vauxhall’s Chairman and Managing Director. “This new large diesel engine is extremely important to Vauxhall as a sizable amount of customers chose a 2.0-litre CDTi engine.”

This 2.0-litre CDTi unit is the latest step in Vauxhall’s powertrain offensive, following the introduction of all-new 1.6-litre petrol and diesel engines and a 1.0-litre three cylinder petrol powertrain. 

Performance

Key to the engine’s enhanced performance are the newly-designed combustion chamber, the re-profiled intake ports and the new fuel injection system with 2,000 bar and up to 10 injections per cylinder cycle. This ensures high power, improved fuel atomisation and also contributes to quieter running. The definition of the combustion chamber alone was the subject of more than 80 computer design simulations, before the best five were finally selected for hardware development.

The VGT (variable geometry turbocharger) features an electrical actuator for the variable aspect turbine, giving a 20 per cent faster boost response than a vacuum actuator. Exceptionally compact packaging of the VGT and intercooler also minimises the air volume between the turbocharger and engine, further contributing to a fast boost pressure build up. For durability, the turbocharger is water-cooled and has an oil filter fitted at the oil inlet point to help further reduce wear in the bearing system.

The VGT and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) module have been designed as a single system for optimal efficiency. The EGR module is based around a new stainless steel radiator concept which provides a near 90 per cent cooling efficiency. An integrated, water-cooled EGR bypass valve minimises pressure drop and its closed loop control offers a significant improvement in NOx/PM trade-off under transient driving conditions, while improving the management of HC and CO emissions.

Improved NVH

A consistent improvement in NVH characteristics under all operating conditions was a key requirement for the new engine right from the outset of its design. Several CAE acoustic optimisation loops were executed on each component and sub-system even before the first prototype engines were built.

Architectural improvements focused on two high noise emitting areas at the top and bottom of the engine. A new aluminium cylinder head design, including the addition of a decoupled, plastic cam cover with isolated fixings and a sealing gasket, improves noise attenuation. And the intake manifold is also wrapped in a single shell cover made of sound-absorbing material.

At the bottom of the engine, a new balancer shaft module is fitted, made of high pressure die-cast aluminium. It houses two counter-rotating shafts which offset up to 83 per cent of secondary order engine vibrations. A helical gear on the crankshaft drives one of the balancer shafts, which is geared to drive the other shaft. Scissor gear control ensures smooth gear teeth meshing, and the elimination of a drive chain removes the risk of rattle noise. After detailed analysis, plain instead of roller bearings were preferred for the balancer shafts to further reduce NVH, as well as weight.

The design of the oil pan is also new. The previous single piece solution is now replaced by a two piece design, with a lower sheet metal pan fixed to an upper section in high pressure, die-cast aluminium. NVH performance was further improved by several analysis loops to acoustically optimise the internal and external ribs of both sections.

Other detailed sound engineering measures to reduce operating noise include:

• Optimised fuel injection patterns for reduced combustion noise without compromising fuel economy; acoustically-designed ribs in the cast iron cylinder block; individual balancing of the VGT compressor and turbine wheels; improved teeth-meshing on the timing belt and decoupled mounting points for its cover.
• As a result of all these design features, the new engine emits less noise than its predecessor throughout its operating range, and is five decibels quieter at idle.  

Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)

The new 2.0 CDTi with Vauxhall’s BlueInjection SCR system assures compliance with Euro 6 emissions standards effective September 2015. 

BlueInjection is an after-treatment which removes NOx from the engine’s exhaust gases. Tiny quantities of AdBlue, a harmless fluid consisting of urea and water, are injected into the exhaust gas flow ahead of the SCR catalyst and downstream of the diesel particulate filter. The solution is immediately converted into ammonia, which is absorbed by the SCR catalyst. Nitrogen oxide in the passing exhaust gas is then selectively reduced to harmless nitrogen and water vapor in a chemical reaction with the ammonia.

The AdBlue solution, available at filling stations and Vauxhall dealerships, is stored in a tank, which can be topped up as required via a nozzle adjacent to the vehicle’s fuel filler cap.

Audi's A6 range gets mid life updates, with improvements across the board.

Enhancements to styling, equipment, engine performance and efficiency keep A6 Saloon and Avant ranges in the vanguard of the executive class

• New A6 and S6 Saloon and Avant ranges expected to open for order in the UK during September – first customer deliveries in late 2014
• OTR prices TBC but expected to start from £32,000
• Styling revisions, xenon headlamps as standard for SE versions, LED headlights as standard for S line, Matrix LED lights optional for A6 and S6 and standard for RS 6 Avant
• Interior decor improvements and upgraded infotainment system
• EU6-compliant engine range benefits from emissions reductions of up to 22 per cent
• Line-up includes 2.0 TDI ultra offering up to 64mpg with CO2 of as little as 114g/km
• New S tronic twin-clutch transmission replaces multitronic CVT in front-wheel-drive variants

Already notable as the first conventionally powered premium executive class car to combine groundbreaking efficiency with a full, unfettered sports specification, the Audi A6 is about to shift up another gear as a new model waits in the wings. Polished by styling revisions, upgraded lighting options, a new infotainment system and new transmissions, the latest A6 Saloon and Avant ranges, which each retain  ultra versions offering up to 64mpg, will open for UK ordering during September ahead of first deliveries in late 2014. Their many gains will also be shared by new A6 allroad, S6, S6 Avant and RS 6 Avant models.

“With the new Audi A6, we are writing the next chapter in an excellent success story. It represents innovative technology and Audi's premium claim,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Board Member for Technical Development at AUDI AG. “The Audi A6 sets new standards in many technical fields: the lightweight body containing many aluminum components, the powerful and highly efficient engines, the sporty chassis and the advanced assistance and multimedia systems.”

The sharp lines and taut surfaces which already create an impression of elegance delivered with meticulous precision in the A6 have been carefully honed as part of the model update. Revisions have been made to the Singleframe grille, the air inlets, the bumpers, the side sills, the rear lights and the tailpipes. One particular exterior highlight is the addition of xenon headlamps as standard for UK A6 SE models, and LED headlights with dynamic ‘sweeping’ rear indicators for S line versions and above. Matrix LED headlights, incorporating clusters of LED bulbs which can be individually dimmed when sensors detect oncoming or following traffic to automatically divert their beams around obstacles, are optional for all A6 and S6 variants and standard for the RS 6 Avant. 

Lighter, brighter S line option

The sinewy style of the exterior is echoed in the car’s spacious interior, which in the Avant is combined with a 565-litre load bay that can be expanded to 1,680 litres. Every detail attests to an uncompromising approach to quality, and the elegant colours and carefully selected materials emphasize the premium class ambiance. A new Lunar Silver upholstery and headlining colour choice for S line versions, which have until now been available finished exclusively in black, is one advantage offered by the new model, as are subtle detail enhancements, including an upgrade from dual-zone to deluxe four-zone climate control, new gear lever designs and additional chrome detailing.

Technology aficionados will also appreciate the upgraded infotainment options, which include new versions of the top-of-the-line MMI navigation plus and Audi connect elements. Based around an eight-inch retractable colour monitor, MMI navigation plus is available as an alternative to the standard navigation system. It now uses an even more powerful Tegra 30 graphics processor from Audi’s partner Nvidia, and includes MMI touch, which enables the driver to scroll and zoom in lists and maps via a touchpad. Audi connect now brings tailored Internet-based services and new media streaming apps to the car via the latest LTE high‑speed data transmission standard for ultra-fast 4G click-through and download functionality.

The Audi phone box option is also now available – it enables occupants to connect their mobile phones to the car‘s antenna for improved reception simply by placing them in the phone box compartment.

The range of driver assistance systems, topped by adaptive cruise control with stop & go function, is also extremely attractive. Audi side assist, which uses radar to check behind the car when changing lanes, works closely together with Audi active lane assist, which prevents unintended lane changes. The night vision assistant now includes even more functions, and the portfolio of Audi pre sense safety systems is also available to further enhance protection. Important information can be called up via the optional head‑up display.

Extensively updated EU6 engines

In the UK the engine line-up for the new A6 and A6 Avant will comprise four TDI engines with either four or six cylinders and either single or twin turbo charging. All engines comply with the limits of the Euro 6 emission standard, and their CO₂ emissions have been reduced by as much as 22 percent. As before, the most efficient engine – the 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder with 190PS – is reserved for ultra versions of the Saloon and Avant which combine strong performance, hushed refinement and the potential to return up to 64mpg with CO2 output from as little as 114g/km. Despite its sports styling, 18-inch alloy wheels and extensive specification, even the A6 2.0 TDI ultra S line Saloon with S tronic transmission achieves these exceptional economy and emissions figures.

The trio of 3.0-litre six-cylinder TDI ‘clean diesel’ units kicks off with a single-turbo V6 with 218PS which replaces the existing 204PS version, and is followed by a 272PS variant, also with a single charger, which takes over from the outgoing 245PS unit. At the top of the range, the 3.0 TDI clean diesel biturbo produces 320PS, an increase of 7PS over its existing equivalent.

The high‑performance diesel is paired with an eight‑speed tiptronic automatic transmission. All other engine variants are linked to either a newly designed six‑speed manual gearbox that is particularly lightweight and low-friction, or a seven‑speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. In the versions with front-wheel drive, a fully redeveloped dual-clutch transmission replaces the familiar eight-speed multitronic continuously variable transmission.

The reassurance of quattro all-wheel-drive is available in conjunction with all engines bar the 2.0-litre TDI, and in versions with 272PS and above, the quattro permanent all‑wheel drive system can be supplemented with the sport differential, which actively distributes power between the rear wheels.

The chassis with its sophisticated, fully independent five-link front and trapezoidal link rear suspension also combines supreme comfort with crisp handling. In the A6 Avant 2.0 TDI ultra, the springs are made of glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP) – an Audi innovation that shaves off approximately 4.4 kilograms in weight, boosts fuel economy and improves both driving precision and comfort.

Sports suspension lowered by 20mm is standard for the A6 S line and optional for the SE model, and the former can be rooted to the tarmac even more firmly by S line sports suspension which lowers the body by a further 10mm. Alternatively, the cushioned comfort of electronically controlled adaptive air suspension is available in conjunction with both specification options. The Audi drive select dynamic handling system is standard.

Redefinition of rugged - the new Audi A6 allroad quattro

The new Audi A6 allroad quattro, which is based on the A6 Avant, features a raised body accentuated by wheel arch extensions and stainless steel protectors that encapsulate the underside of the front and rear ends. It rides on adaptive air suspension with allroad-specific settings and is powered by three 3.0‑litre V6 TDI engines with outputs of 218PS, 272PS and 320PS.

High performance to the power of three: the new S6, S6 Avant and RS 6 Avant

The new Audi S6 and S6 Avant are sports cars for everyday use. They use the 4.0-litre TFSI petrol engine, a twin turbo V8 producing 450PS, which accelerates the Saloon from rest to 62mph in 4.4 seconds. The S6 Avant completes the sprint in 4.6 seconds. Combined fuel economy is an impressive 30.7mpg in the Saloon and 30.1mpg in the Avant, the equivalent of 214 and 219 grams CO₂ per kilometre, respectively. This efficiency is due in large part to the cylinder on demand (COD) system, which only activates four of the eight cylinders when under part load.

Standard equipment in the new Audi S6 and S6 Avant includes quattro permanent all‑wheel drive incorporating the sports differential and the adaptive air suspension, which lowers the body by 20 millimetres. Matt black brake calipers grip the front discs mounted behind the 19‑inch wheels.

The figurehead of the new A6 family remains the RS 6 Avant. The Avant in the extreme accelerates to 62mph in a mere 3.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 189mph. Its 4.0-litre TFSI engine produces 560PS, yet is also capable of up to 29.4mpg, corresponding to 223 grams CO₂ per kilometre. The COD system is also largely responsible for this efficiency.

An eight‑speed tiptronic transfers the power from the twin turbo V8. The standard quattro drivetrain uses a centre differential with a higher locking rate and also features the sports differential acting on the rear axle. The RS adaptive air suspension lowers the body by 20 millimetres, but customers also have the option of conventionally sprung RS sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC). The large brake discs feature a weight-saving wave design, and the wheels measure 20 inches in diameter. 21‑inch wheels are available as an option.