The new Micra now with an entry level petrol engine which will take about 20% of sales.

• Highly efficient 71PS entry level petrol model at retailers for demonstration drives
• Will account for approximately 20% of Micra sales
• Launch line-up of three Micra engines now complete
• All-new Micra features expressive design, uplifting interior and confident drive 

The launch range of the all-new Nissan Micra has been completed with the arrival at retailers of the eagerly anticipated 1.0-litre 71PS entry-level model. 

While it’s the last of three launch engines to go on sale, it will play a vital role in the Micra success story. It is expected to account for approximately 20% of sales. 

Offering an excellent balance of performance and running costs, the three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine is linked to a five-speed manual transmission. This highly efficient powertrain results in official Combined Cycle fuel economy of 4.6 litres/100km and CO2 emissions of 103g/km when running on 15 or 16-inch wheels. 

The new 1.0-litre 71PS engine joins the 0.9-litre 90PS three-cylinder turbo petrol and the 1.5-litre 90PS four-cylinder diesel, which went on sale earlier this year. 

The new Nissan Micra is quite simply a revolution. It is a radical progression from the model it has replaced, and from the trio of highly successful superminis which date back to the Micra’s debut in Europe in 1983. 

Longer, wider and lower than ever before, the all-new Micra has been conceived, designed and engineered with European customers’ requirements at the top of the agenda. 

Key to its appeal is the hatchback’s athletic and expressive exterior design, which moves the Micra name plate in a daring new direction. The contemporary look and premium feel continues inside, with a high-quality cabin that boasts two-tone soft-touch materials as standard across the range. 

The all-new Micra is also a technology leader, with a number of features which are not only new to the Micra but new to the segment. These include Intelligent Lane Intervention, a safety system which gently corrects the Micra back on to the right path should it be required. 

Also unique to Micra is the BOSE Personal audio system, which features speakers built into the driver’s head rest for an immersive 360° sound experience. The new Micra is available with a wide range of personalisation options, allowing owners to modify the exterior and interior with premium components in a variety of stylish and contemporary colours. 

The new Micra is also a fantastic car to drive, with a dynamic performance that is the perfect balance between agility, excitement and the secure feeling that comes with confident and predictable handling. 

Skoda launches the new flagship Octavia model, the strikingly quick vRS model.

• 2.0 TSI petrol now with 169 kW (230 hp), 2.0 TDI diesel also with all-wheel drive
• New front end, full-LED headlights, vRS-specific details
• Top technologies for infotainment, connectivity and driver assistance systems set standards in compact class

Just weeks after introducing the extensively modernised ŠKODA OCTAVIA, the Czech automobile manufacturer presents the top model in the series – the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS.

The new front section, modified rear and sporty interior highlight its dynamic character. The upgraded ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS is available as a hatchback and estate. 

Both body styles have two four-cylinder engines to choose from. While the 2.0 TDI diesel engine has the same 135 kW (184 hp) output as previously, the performance of the 2.0 TSI petrol engine has increased by 7 kW (10 hp) to 169 kW (230 hp), making it the most powerful and fastest series-production model in the history of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA. 

New premium technologies supporting infotainment, connectivity and driver assistance systems emphasise the exceptional position of the compact sports car in its segment.

Dynamic design

The appearance of the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS accentuates the extensively redeveloped design of the series in a particularly sporty and emotional way: The new front section with a wider radiator grille, which has been extended with additional headlamps featuring a crystalline look, and the even wider air intakes with honeycomb structure in the redesigned bumpers are masculine and dynamic. The four full-LED headlights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), as well as the LED side-mounted headlights integrated into the bumper shape the new front end. At the rear, the hatchback’s spoiler and the estate’s roof spoiler set independent accents.

The rear is dominated by a powerful black diffuser element and broad red reflector lamp above. These elements are unmistakable characteristics of the upgraded ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS. In addition, the model now features LED-technology license plate illumination and taillights in the classic C-design as standard.

The interior of the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS is characterized by the vRS-Sport seats which provide plenty of lateral support thanks to high sides and integrated headrests. In addition to the leather/fabric combination, the sports seats are now also available in Alcantara as an option. The multi-function sports steering wheel (for DSG gearbox with shift paddles) has a perforated leather crown. Ambient lighting comes as standard. The recesses of the door handles are illuminated, the pedals shine in an aluminium finish, and the entry panels bear the vRS logo. ŠKODA-typical ‘Simply-Clever’solutions include an umbrella under the passenger seat and a removable LED lamp in the boot of the estate.

Chassis, technology, engines

The 15 mm lower sports suspension and the rear track, 30 mm wider than the predecessor, as well as the red brake callipers underline the dynamic character of the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS. 18-inch wheels are available as standard, while 19-inch wheels are available as an option.

Progressive steering, Performance Mode Select with Performance Sound Generator (option), the stability program ESC with electronic cross barrier XDS+ and Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) add to the intensive driving pleasure of the new ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS. DCC allows the driver to choose between Comfort, Normal or Sport modes.

The new engine of the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 2.0 TSI provides 169 kW (230 hp) and has a maximum torque of 350 Nm at 1,500 to 4,600 rpm. The front-wheel drive sports model sprints from 0 to 62mph in 6.7 seconds. The model’s top speed is 155 mph. The combined fuel consumption is 43.4 mpg (149 g CO2/km; all values: hatchback with manual transmission). As standard, the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 2.0 TSI is equipped with a manual 6-speed manual gearbox, optionally with a 6-speed DSG.

In the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 2.0 TDI, a diesel engine with an output of 135 kW (184 hp)and a maximum torque of 380 Nm from 1,750 rpm ensures acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 144 mph. The combined fuel consumption is 62.8 mpg (119 g CO2/km, all values: hatchback with manual transmission). The ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 2.0 TDI is available either with front-wheel drive (manual or 6-speed DSG) or 4×4-wheel drive and 6-speed DSG.

Infotainment and ŠKODA Connect

As all versions in the series, the current ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS features the latest generation of infotainment systems. The capacitive touch displays are designed in glass. The top version is the navigation system Columbus with a 9.2-inch monitor, WLAN hotspot and optional LTE module.

Driver assistance systems

The wide range of driver assistance systems in ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS sets new standards in the compact class. New features include Trailer Assist, Blind Spot Detect, which warns the driver of vehicles in the blind spot, and Rear Traffic Alert, which monitors side and rear traffic when leaving a parking space. The Crew Protect Assist closes windows and sunroofs in the event of an imminent accident, tightens driver and passenger seatbelts and works in conjunction with the improved Front Assist including city emergency braking and predictive pedestrian protection.

History

The abbreviation RS was first used for racing cars in 1974, and has been used for the top sporty versions in the ŠKODA model range since the year 2000, with the vRS moniker adopted for the UK market. To date, more than 200,000 ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS and vRS models have been sold worldwide, of which 100,000 units of the third generation that was launched in 2013.

Vauxhall launches some spy shots of the new generation Insignia before its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show.

• Vauxhall flagship with all-new architecture and top technologies
• Debuts in March at the Geneva Motor Show 2017
• Elegant, athletic silhouette apparent despite camouflage

Covered in camouflage, Vauxhall’s all-new flagship model, which will be known as the Insignia Grand Sport, is in its final stage of development on UK roads before it makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next March.

The Insignia Grand Sport is a five-door hatchback that is based on a completely new architecture and has a considerably longer wheelbase (by over 9cm) than its predecessor. But thanks to markedly shorter front and rear overhangs, it is only 5.5cm longer than the outgoing model. 

The 1cm wider track and 3cm lower roofline emphasise the Insignia Grand Sport’s dashing presence. These altered proportions give the next generation of Vauxhall’s flagship a look that is more athletic and striking than ever before.

And by using lightweight materials, Vauxhall engineers were able to shave up to 175kg off of the new model. Optimised packaging also allows for a much roomier interior and cutting-edge technology on board.

At the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, Vauxhall gave a glimpse into the future of the automobile with the visionary Monza Concept Study: light, athletic, and efficient, with cutting-edge connectivity. The new Astra, which was named “Car of the Year 2016”, follows this philosophy. With the Insignia Grand Sport, Vauxhall now launches a model that further realises these standards and takes them to the next level.

The newcomer is noticeably larger than the current Insignia both inside and out, putting it in another league in terms of size, roominess and comfort. And of course, Vauxhall continues to make the latest technological innovations available to the widest audience at an affordable price.

“Vauxhall is raising its game even further with the launch of the new Insignia Grand Sport,” said Rory Harvey, Vauxhall’s Chairman and Managing Director. “It will set new standards for design, efficiency, technology and connectivity when it debuts next year at the Geneva Motor Show.”

A frequent class-leader in the UK’s D-sector, over 900,000 Insignias have been sold in Europe and it was named “Car of the Year” in 2009.

The Biggest MINI yet, the All-New Clubman - or should that be The Biggest MAXI yet ?

Unveiled in a UK première as part of the GQ Style Night out, the new MINI Clubman was officially launched on Thursday 17th September, by Matthew Zorpas, ‘The Gentleman Blogger’, as it dazzled in the spotlight on Carnaby Street.

The British car brand and London’s most celebrated neighbourhood have a long and stylish history together, dating back to the hedonistic swinging sixties. However, today the partnership is a very different picture, with the sleek and powerful new MINI Clubman demonstrating how much MINI has grown up.

To mark The MINI Clubman’s new look, MINI is working with The Gentleman Blogger, Matthew Zorpas, to explore what makes a ‘Modern Gentleman’ today. Matthew is pictured wearing items from the Pitti Umo collection, created exclusively for MINI and inspired by the car.

The epitome of style, design and sophistication, the new MINI Clubman is the ultimate accessory for the modern gentleman’s armoury and boasts a 0-62 time of 7.2 seconds on the Cooper S, with range pricing starting from £19,995.

On sale nationwide from 31st October 2015, the MINI Clubman was unveiled as part of the GQ Style Night Out to kick start London Fashion week. The evening saw hundreds of stylish guests in attendance where they had the opportunity to see, experience and get photographed with the new MINI Clubman.

Renault launches the New Fourth Generation Mégane, the most complete, and beautiful version yet.

• 20 years after the launch of Renault Mégane, which sold over 6.5 million units worldwide, Renault is updating its family car and has revealed New Mégane, the fourth car to carry that name.
• In a highly competitive segment, New Mégane stands out with its dynamic styling and distinctive lighting signature both at the front and at the rear.
• The latest Mégane range is topped by a GT version, which will be available from launch, and whose design is inspired by Renaultsport.

A distinctive, dynamic, meticulous design

With its distinctive lighting signature and balanced proportions, New Mégane is first and foremost a Renault. It adopts the brand's design DNA with broad, sculpted shoulders and a front face incorporating the brand's new design identity, including a large, vertical Renault diamond. 

As a relative of Renault Talisman, New Mégane boasts a specific lighting signature at the front with, C-shaped headlamps whose surround continues into the bumper. At the rear, the new lighting signature, visible by both day and night, goes right across the car to increase the perceived width of the vehicle. 

"On the highly competitive market of compact saloons, it was vital that New Mégane should stand out right from the first glance", says exterior designer Franck Le Gall.

At 25mm lower in front with track 47mm wider in front and 39mm wider at the rear compared to the third generation Mégane, New Mégane sits squarely on the road. Its proportions are those of a sporty silhouette with a wheelbase 28mm longer and a shorter overhang. 

Franck goes on: "The precise, taut lines, which draw the whole design towards the front, are part of the side surfaces." In combination with the sculpted shoulders, these lines give New Mégane dynamism and character."

Chromed elements emphasise the top of the belt line and enhance the grille, the side badges and door handles. The slim creases on the bonnet, combined with the chrome beading and side air scoops, strengthen the character of the front face.

An exclusive GT version, available from launch

New Mégane GT has a front bumper redesigned to express a more sporty personality. It incorporates a broader air intake and the new grill has a honeycomb design.

At the rear, the design of New Mégane GT is underscored by two chromed tailpipes that echo the air scoops further to the front and frame a spoiler inspired by the world of F1. New Mégane GT has  "Renaultsport" badging at the rear, on the wings and at the front.

This sports version will be available with new "Iron Blue" paintwork, combined with "Dark Metal" touches at the front and on the body-coloured door mirrors to emphasise its affinity with the world of GT motoring.

New Mégane GT also has 18-inch aluminium wheels developed especially for the model by Renaultsport.

In Frankfurt, New Mégane will be fully revealed…

Don't miss the Frankfurt Motor Show to find out all about New Mégane, its interior design, the technologies that have been taken from the segment above, as well as the range of engines available.

Over 50% of fleet drivers would consider the All-New Mondeo.

Over half of UK executives in one of the largest “user chooser” market segments are eager for the all-new Ford Mondeo’s arrival.

Sewells Intelligence questioned over 2,200 “user chooser” company car drivers, the largest survey of its kind. Over half of those in the lower/upper medium vehicle sector* said that they would definitely or be likely to consider the Ford Mondeo as their next company car.

Available from next month in diesel and petrol five-door and estate bodystyles, plus a four-door hybrid, the all-new Ford Mondeo offers head-turning exterior styling, greater interior refinement and technologies including adaptive LED headlamps, Inflatable Rear Seatbelts and SYNC 2 connectivity.

In addition, Sewells also surveyed over 2,000 fleet managers and business decision-makers across the UK, again the largest survey of its kind, who placed Ford in the top two most desirable brands for businesses overall.

Simon Staplehurst, of Sewells Research and Insight, said: “It’s easy to be blinded by the kudos of a premium badge, yet surveys like our User Chooser Barometer highlight that company car drivers also strongly consider Ford. Given that this Mondeo will also offer a hybrid petrol-electric option, it’s only likely to further increase interest from drivers.”

All-new Ford Mondeo introduces adaptive LED headlamp technology, which combines full LED headlamps, offering daylight clarity, with Adaptive Front Lighting to adjust the beam angle and intensity to match the environment.

In the event of an accident, the Mondeo’s Inflatable Rear Seatbelts expand to disperse crash forces across a body area five times greater than that achieved by a conventional belt – offering valuable extra protection to very young or old passengers with weaker chest areas.

Ford’s SYNC 2 connectivity system boasts an eight-inch colour touchscreen to operate phone, entertainment, climate and navigation systems using voice commands.

The all-new Ford Mondeo, also capable of automatically parking itself in both parallel and perpendicular spaces, as well as avoiding pedestrians which stray into the car’s path, is now on sale from £20,795.

High performance, sleek design & Innovative tech, that will be the new 2015 Ford Mustang.

• All-new sophisticated design clearly inspired by 50 years of Mustang heritage evolved to attract wider array of customers and expand global market availability
• The new Mustang is the first car to offer four-, six- and eight-cylinder engines that each produce at least 300 horsepower – a 300-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, a more powerful 435-horsepower 5.0-liter V8, and an all-new 310-horsepower* 2.3-liter EcoBoost^® engine
• Mustang sets new performance and dynamics benchmarks for the brand with world-class handling, more precise steering control and enhanced ride comfort

Loaded with innovative technologies and delivering high levels of performance and style, the all-new Mustang is the next chapter in the life of one of the world’s most iconic cars.

“Ford Mustang inspires passion like no other car,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “The visceral look, sound and performance of Mustang resonates with people, even if they’ve never driven one. Mustang is definitely more than just a car – it is the heart and soul of Ford.”

Mustang’s impact goes well beyond the 9 million-plus cars sold in its 50 years of continuous production. It has made thousands of appearances in film, television, music and video games, and is the world’s most-liked vehicle on Facebook. For the first time ever, Ford will bring Mustang to customers in key parts of Europe and Asia.

The Mustang experience

The way Mustang looks, drives and sounds is key to the visceral experience that makes drivers just want to get in the driver’s seat and hit the road. The Mustang is the first car to offer four-, six- and eight-cylinder engines that each produce at least 300 horsepower. With more powertrain options to choose from, there is a Mustang to fit any lifestyle. The 3.7-liter V6 and upgraded 5.0-liter V8 are joined by an all-new 2.3-liter EcoBoost^® engine that brings state-of-the-art technology to Mustang.

The Mustang’s EcoBoost engine uses direct injection, variable cam timing and turbocharging to deliver plenty of usable performance across a broad RPM range. A unique intake manifold and turbocharger housing enable it to deliver the performance Mustang drivers expect with 310 horsepower* and 320 lb.-ft. of torque.*

“This EcoBoost engine delivers where a Mustang driver expects it to, with a broad, flat torque curve that pours out when you stand on it for easy passing or hustling down a twisty road,” said Dave Pericak, Ford Mustang chief engineer.

Mustang GT continues with the latest edition of the throaty 5.0-liter V8, now featuring an upgraded valvetrain and cylinder heads that help boost output to 435 horsepower* and 400 lb.-ft. of torque*. A new intake manifold features charge motion control valves to partially close off port flow at lower engine speeds. This increases the air charge tumble and swirl for improved air-fuel mixing resulting in improved efficiency and idle stability.

With 300 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque on tap from the standard 3.7-liter V6, even the most accessible Mustang delivers the performance customers expect. Drivers will appreciate smoother shifts from the updated manual gearbox, while a reworked automatic transmission features new steering wheel-mounted shift paddles for drivers who want the choice between convenience and control.

All-new shape, yet unmistakably Mustang

The clean-sheet design of both Mustang fastback and convertible evokes the essential character of the brand, retaining key design elements – including the long sculpted hood and short rear deck – with contemporary execution.

Several key design features define the all-new Mustang, including:

• A lower, wider stance with a reduction in roof height, and wider rear fenders and track
• The return of Mustang fastback with a sleeker profile enabled by more steeply sloped windshield and rear glass
• Three-dimensional, tri-bar taillamps with sequential turn signals
• Contemporary execution of the signature shark-bite front fascia and trapezoidal grille

The information and controls an active driver needs are all readily accessible in the aviation-inspired cockpit, which is executed with the highest degree of craftsmanship ever found in a Mustang. Large, clear instrumentation puts vehicle information right in front of the driver in the roomier cabin, while improved ergonomics and tactile switches and knobs provide better control. The added width and a new rear suspension contribute to improved shoulder and hip room for rear-seat passengers, and a more usefully shaped trunk can accommodate two golf bags.

Slipping through the air

Design and performance are two of the essential attributes that have made Mustang appeal to millions of fans for five decades. Performance can be improved by increasing the output of the powerplant or reducing the amount of work it has to do. The sleeker shape helps it slip through the air with less effort.

Each of Mustang’s three available engines gets a unique grille that allows in only as much air as that specific powerplant needs. Active grille shutters will help make the Mustang powered by the new 2.3-liter EcoBoost^®engine even more fuel efficient by further reducing drag at higher speeds when extra cooling capacity is not needed. The shutters can completely close off the grille, sending air over and around the car instead of through the engine compartment.

Carving up the curves

When life throws drivers a curve, the all-new Mustang sets new handling benchmarks for the brand, delivering world-class dynamics and ride quality.

Mustang features all-new front and rear suspension systems. At the front, a new perimeter subframe helps to stiffen the structure while reducing mass, providing a better foundation for more predictable wheel control that benefits handling, steering and ride.

The new double-ball-joint front MacPherson strut system also enables the use of larger, more powerful brakes. The 2015 Mustang has the most capable brake lineup ever offered on a Mustang.

At the rear is an all-new integral-link independent rear suspension. The geometry, springs, dampers and bushings all have been specifically modified and tuned for this high-performance application. New aluminum rear knuckles help reduce unsprung mass for improved ride and handling.

Smarter than your average pony

The all-new Mustang features a significant amount of innovative technologies providing drivers with enhanced information, control and connectivity when they want it. From Intelligent Access with push-button start to SYNC^® and MyKey^® in every Mustang built, plus standard Track Apps^™, MyColor^® gauges and a new Shaker Pro Audio System, drivers will be able to customize their time behind the wheel.

The feeling of freedom and confidence Mustang instills in its drivers is amplified when they can take control of how the car behaves. On a twisty back road or a weekend track day, the driver can tap the toggle switches on the console to quickly adjust steering effort, engine response, and transmission and electronic stability control settings using the available Selectable Drive Modes to create the perfect Mustang at any time.

The advanced new Ford-developed stability control system is tuned to maximize Mustang’s dynamic capabilities. When the time comes to turn up the wick at the track, Mustang GT includes standard launch control on manual-transmission models that enables drivers to achieve smooth, consistent starts every time.

When it’s time to back off and relax for the drive home, available advanced driver-assist features including Blind Spot Information System (BLIS^®) with cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control can help ease the load, while SYNC AppLink^™ lets drivers control their smartphone apps to listen to their favorite form of entertainment.

Debuting on the 2015 Mustang are enhancements to the SYNC^® 911 Assist^® feature. The enhancements will provide the ability to deliver information such as the maximum change in velocity during impact, indication of crash type (front, side, rear or rollover), safety belt usage as detected by the vehicle, awareness of whether multiple impacts occurred and whether airbags were deployed.

More airbags, more high-strength steel

An all-new inflatable airbag restraint design provides the front seat passenger with knee airbag protection while significantly reducing system size and weight, enabling a roomier interior for more comfort. This new airbag is part of a standard comprehensive safety system that includes a more robust package of sensors, safety belt anchor pretensioners, improved exterior lighting and double the total number of airbags on the fastback Mustang.