A selection of cars gain the five stars, with one each for 3 and 4 in the latest Euro NCAP tests.

• Retest of Ford Mustang shows safety improvement, secures Three Star Euro NCAP rating 
  
• “This underlines the power of the Euro NCAP consumer testing programme,” says Thatcham Research 
  
• SEAT Ibiza the standout of other vehicles tested, raises the bar in Supermini safety 
  
• A further four vehicles tested – Five Star ratings for the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, VW Arteon and Hyundai i30, Four Stars for the Honda Civic

Following an unfavourable safety rating earlier this year, Ford has resubmitted its flagship Mustang sports car for testing, on this occasion earning a Three Star Euro NCAP rating. This follows the addition of standard-fit Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and a Lane Keeping Aid, while rapidly addressing a ‘bottoming-out[1]’ issue with the driver’s airbag.

“In just a few months, Ford has responded to improve on the initial low safety rating given to the Mustang,” comments Matthew Avery, director of research at Thatcham Research. “Our advice to buyers is to always opt for a Euro NCAP Five Star car, so a Three Star Euro NCAP rating is never a cause for celebration. 

However, Ford’s rapid addition of a suite of standard-fit safety tech and its prompt updates to improve the performance of the airbags and restraints is to be applauded and underlines the power of the Euro NCAP consumer testing programme as a force for positive action. We will continue to apply pressure on carmakers to ensure UK drivers have the safest possible cars.”

Take a SEAT

July’s standout vehicle was the SEAT Ibiza, which at £13,000 is a relatively affordable and well-reviewed Supermini. Avery comments, “SEAT has set a new benchmark in safety for the Supermini price point category. The Ibiza not only comes with standard-fit AEB but also Pedestrian AEB – which is proven to reduce vulnerable road user deaths.

“The new VW Polo will be built on the same platform as the Ibiza which bodes well and with major new Supermini launches expected later in 2017, the safety game is now on for carmakers in this category.”

Four other vehicles were tested by Euro NCAP this month, with all but one achieving a Five Star rating. The Alfa Romeo Stelvio, VW Arteon and Hyundai i30 all received the maximum Five Stars. The Honda Civic was awarded a Four Star Euro NCAP rating, despite having standard-fit AEB. This was in part due to the head of the rear passenger dummy representing a 10 year old recording a hard impact through the curtain airbag

Ssangyong updates the Tivoli and Tivoli XLV with more safety enhancements for 2017.

• New safety features available include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking System, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assistance, and Traffic Sign Recognition
• Tivoli priced from £13,300 & Tivoli XLV from £19,200
• 5-year limitless mileage warranty

The SsangYong Tivoli - the brand’s first B-segment SUV, retains its stylish good looks and class-leading levels of equipment and interior space, while also receiving a number of significant safety enhancements for 2017.

Safety features available include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking System, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assistance, and Traffic Sign Recognition.

“This is a quantum leap forward in safety for cars in this class,” says Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK.  “I am really proud of what our colleagues in Korea have achieved, and it means we can now offer cars that achieve the 4-star NCAP rating.”

Further enhancements for both driver and passengers include a fully adjustable steering wheel for rake and reach, improved ventilation for the front seat passengers, and reclining rear seats for optimum comfort on long journeys.  A new 2-position base for the boot floor also provides increased load carrying practicality and flexibility.

Tivoli XLV, the extended bodied multi-role ‘SUV estate’ derived from the Tivoli platform, also receives the same safety upgrades and improvements for 2017, with the addition of heated rear seats for extra passenger comfort in winter.

USA - Kia Motors America has announced pricing and specification for the All-New Niro Crossover.

• All-New Niro Crossover Offers Value, Utility and Exceptional Fuel Economy
• Five different trim levels offer a Niro for every buyer
• Crossover utility and hybrid efficiency at an affordable price

Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced pricing for the all-new 2017 Niro crossover hybrid.  When the Niro arrives in dealerships early in 2017 it will be offered in five trim levels – FE, LX, EX, Touring and a limited-production, Launch Edition. 

MSRP¹ for the FE is just $22,890¹ and the top-of-the-line Touring with its many luxury, infotainment and convenience features is $29,650.  Destination charges of $895 are not included in the MSRP.

“At Kia, we’re always striving to offer exciting new products that redefine their segments in all areas, including price,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president of product planning, KMA. 

 “The new Niro checks all the boxes – it provides crossover utility, good looks, outstanding fuel economy, it’s fun to drive and it’s affordable.”

The Niro FE, with a starting MSRP of $22,890 and 50-MPG (combined)², is equipped with a long list of standard features, including: 16-inch wheels; 6-way front seats; power windows; keyless entry; cruise control; 7-inch touchscreen display with rearview camera; UVO3 with Apple CarPlay^TM3, Android Auto^TM4 and a six-speaker audio system with steering-wheel-mounted controls.

Moving up to the $23,200 LX trim adds Smart Key with push button start, roof rails and LED rear combination lamps.  

Among the extras added to EX $25,700 are heated combination cloth and leather seating, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED daytime running lights, heated power folding mirrors, front fog lamps, and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Lane Change Assist (LCA) driver assistance features⁵.

The Launch Edition is available in Snow White Pearl or Aurora Black Pearl exterior colors and offers an exclusive look via the unique Hyper Gray 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin tires, unique metallic color grille, 10-way driver’s seat, 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, 8-speaker Harman Kardon^®6 premium audio and is $28,000.

Touring trim $29,650 is equipped with an amazing array of additional features – power tilt/slide sunroof, front and rear park assist, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, 10-way power driver’s seat with memory and 8-speaker Harman Kardon^® premium audio,

Three option packages are available.  Advanced Technology Package is offered on the LX at $1,450 and includes Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning System⁵.  Sunroof and Advanced Technology Package is offered on EX at $2,300 and includes power tilt/slide sunroof, Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning System⁵. The Advanced Technology Package $1,900 offered on Touring includes HID headlights, wireless phone charger and 110V inverter, Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning System⁵. 

* The Sorento and Optima GDI (EX, SX & Limited and certain LX Trims only) are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts

1 MSRP excludes destination and handling, taxes, title, license fees, options and retailer charges.  Actual prices set by retailer and may vary. $900 destination charges not included.

2 Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition. Niro EPA estimated MPG city/highway/combined FE 52/49/50, LX 51/46/49, EX 51/46/49, Touring Launch 46/40/43, Touring 46/40/43.

3 Apple^®  and Apple CarPlay ™  are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

4 Android™ and Android Auto^TM are trademarks of Google, Inc.

5 These features are not substitutes for safe driving, and may not detect all objects surrounding vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.

6 Harman Kardon is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated

Hyundai has officially announced the pricing and specification of the New i10 City Car.

• New i10 introduces Hyundai family’s new Cascading grille
• Integrated 7” touchscreen navigation with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and LIVE services on Premium SE – a first for the segment
• Safety enhancements include Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Warning

Hyundai Motor UK has officially announced the pricing and specification of the New i10, the latest iteration of its multi award-winning city car.

External changes to the New i10 include the first implementation of the new Cascading grille, a feature which will define the exterior design of future Hyundai models. 

The redesigned front bumper also includes with updated LED Daytime Running Lights on Premium and Premium SE models. 

At the rear, the New i10 is also characterised by an evolved bumper design with a black inlay and round fog lights and refreshed rear lights with a darker housing for a sportier look. 

Redesigned side mouldings with a new shape and size round off the New i10’s fresh profile.

New i10 also introduces two new safety technologies to the i10 range, with Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and Forward Collision Warning System (FCWS) forming the Driver Assist Pack, available as an option on SE, Premium and Premium SE trim. 

Using a forward facing camera, LDWS alerts the driver with an audible warning if the vehicle moves over lane markings, whilst FCWS acts to warn the driver with a visual and audible alarm if a collision risk arises from another vehicle.

The New i10 also makes advanced technology available to more people than ever before. Responding to customer demand for simple connectivity features, the New i10 Premium SE includes the latest connectivity features, all integrated into the new seven-inch touchscreen navigation system. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto guarantee seamless integration, safe operation and mirrored functionality of mobile devices based on iOS or the Android operating system. 

In order to be up-to-date, the New i10 Premium SE’s navigation system comes with a seven-year free subscription to LIVE Services, offering real-time traffic and weather conditions, points of interest as well as the position of speed cameras in countries where this is permitted by law. 

Customers do not even have to choose: the New i10 Premium SE is the only car in its class to offer Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and LIVE Services in a single infotainment system.

The handling of New i10 has a modified steering gear ratio for a more direct feel, whilst larger front shock absorber bump stops enhance both ride comfort and lower suspension noise transmission into the cabin.

Prices will start from £9,250 for the i10 S, which includes new 14” steel wheels and wheel covers, rear spoiler with integrated brake light, electric front windows and remote central locking as standard. with the interior features a new Black cloth interior. with grey dashboard insert. 

Standard safety features include Electronic Stability Programme, Brake Assist System and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. The i10 S is available with the 1.0 3-cylinder Kappa engine and a 5 speed manual transmission.

i10 SE, from £10,500, builds on the S specification, adding body-coloured door handles and mirrors, with heating and electrical adjustment, air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth and DAB radio. 

i10 SE is also available with optional blue or red interior trim as a no cost alternative to the standard black cloth trim and introduces the Driver Assist Pack two new safety features for the model - Lane Departure Warning System and Forward Collision Warning. 

i10 SE has the option of three powertrains - the 1.0-litre 3-cylinder Kappa engine mated to a 5 speed manual transmission, or the 1.2-litre 4-cylinder Kappa engine available with a 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission.

The i10 SE Blue, available from £10,900, shares the generous equipment levels of the SE, whilst delivering range leading economy. 

The i10 SE Blue features a combination of Intelligent Stop Go, and a unique weight saving 4 seat interior with 13” steel wheels and wheel covers, allowing the i10 SE Blue’s 1.0-litre 3-cylinder Kappa engine to achieve 70.6 mpg combined.

i10 Premium now features privacy glass as standard, which alongside a new design of 14” alloy wheel and LED daytime running lights, increases the New i10’s external visual appeal even further. 

Interior comfort is also increased, with climate control, and a leather steering wheel and gear knob also available. 

Enhancements continue with the new connectivity features of DAB radio and a smartphone docking station now introduced at Premium specification. 

The i10 Premium is available with a choice of three powertrains- the 1.0-litre 3-cylinder Kappa engine with 5 speed manual transmission, or the 1.2-litre 4-cylinder Kappa engine with a 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission. i10 Premium prices start from £11,200.

With prices from £12,800, the range topping i10 Premium SE builds on the specification enhancements of Premium, with the introduction of a 7” touchscreen with Navigation and DAB radio. 

The fully integrated system also offers LIVE services, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, making i10 Premium SE the only car in its class to offer all 3 in a single infotainment system. 

i10 Premium SE is available with the 1.2-litre 4-cylinder Kappa engine with a choice of a 5 speed manual, or 4 speed automatic transmission.

The New i10 will be offered in a range of nine vibrant exterior colours in solid, metallic and pearl finishes. 

The solid colour range comprises Morning Blue and Polar White, while the metallic range is made up of Aqua Sparkling, Iced Coffee, Sleek Sliver and Star Dust. 

Customers desiring pearl colours can choose between Mandarin Orange, Passion Red and Phantom Black. Black cloth interior is the standard New i10 upholstery, with both Blue and Red cloth available on SE, Premium and Premium SE trim.

New i10 pricing:

New  i10 Pricing	Fuel Type	CO2Emissions (g/km)	VED Band	Recommended On The Road Price	P11D Value	BIK %
S 1.0 66ps 5dr - Manual	P	108	B	£9,250	£9,195	18%
SE Blue 1.0 66ps 4 seat 5dr - Manual	P	93	A	£10,900	£10,845	15%
SE 1.0 66ps 5dr - Manual	P	108	B	£10,500	£10,445	18%
Premium 1.0 66ps 5dr - Manual	P	108	B	£11,200	£11,145	18%
SE 1.2 87ps 5dr - Manual	P	114	C	£10,980	£10,925	19%
SE 1.2 87ps 5dr - Auto	P	139	E	£11,720	£11,535	24%
Premium 1.2 87ps 5dr - Manual	P	114	C	£11,680	£11,625	19%
Premium 1.2 87ps 5dr - Auto	P	139	E	£12,420	£12,235	24%
Premium SE 1.2 87ps 5dr - Manual	P	114	C	£12,800	£12,745	19%
Premium SE 1.2 87ps 5dr - Auto	P	139	E	£13,540	£13,355	24%
Optional Extras
Metallic / Pearl paint						£550
Driver Assist Pack (Lane Departure Warning System and Forward Collision Warning System) – SE, Premium & Premium SE						£275
Blue or Red interior – SE , Premium and Premium SE						FOC