GENEVA - Skoda to launch updated and new trim levels on most of its range.

• World premiere for ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 245 and ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT
• Debut for ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT and ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE
• Upgraded ŠKODA models RAPID, RAPID SPACEBACK and ŠKODA CITIGO on show for the first time
• Premiere for ŠKODA FABIA with new three-cylinder 1.0-TSI engine
• ŠKODA presence at the exhibition on a stand area of 2 039 m2 in Hall 2

ŠKODA’s presence at the Geneva International Motor Show (7 - 19 March 2017) will include numerous world and exhibition premieres. 

Two variants of the bestselling ŠKODA OCTAVIA model range will take centre stage at the stand in Hall 2: the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 245 with a power output of 245 PS and the revised ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT. The ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT and the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE will also be unveiled at the Palexpo in Geneva. 

Furthermore, the revised ŠKODA RAPID and the ŠKODA RAPID SPACEBACK will celebrate their debuts as well as the modified ŠKODA CITIGO. Last but not least, the ŠKODA FABIA will be presented with its new 1.0 TSI engine.

World premiere for the ŠKODA OCTAVIA vRS 245 and ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT

The ŠKODA OCTAVIA RS 245 – with its powerful engine and modern chassis technology including electronically regulated VAQ limited-slip differential – promises the ultimate driving experience. The compact athlete, with an increased power output of 245 PS, is available as a hatchback and an Estate. 

The performance data is impressive: from a standing start, it takes only 6.6 seconds to reach 62 mph, the top speed is limited to 155 mph and maximum torque of 370 Nm is achieved between 1,600 and 4,300 rpm. Compared to the ‘standard’ models in the series, the sports chassis lowers the body by 15 mm; its rear track is 30 mm wider than that of its predecessor. The standard, burnished gloss-black alloy wheels are 19 inches in diameter. The ESC stability system with Sport mode and the electronically regulated VAQ limited-slip differential emphasise the car’s dynamic character, as do the progressive steering and the optional adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC).

The ŠKODA OCTAVIA SCOUT comes with distinctive characteristics: a robust design in an off-road look, a wide variety of uses, powerful, yet efficient engines and all-wheel drive as standard. Its discrete, robust appearance is characterised by special features such as moulding on the bumpers, wheel arches and door sills, silver-coloured underbody protection at the front and rear, 17-inch alloy wheels, as well as a wider rear track. The standard equipment also includes the Rough-Road package, LED daytime running lights and the C-shaped LED tail lights.

World premiere for ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT and ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE

ŠKODA’s large SUV is a further highlight on the exhibition stand in Hall 2. The spotlight will be on two variants in particular. The ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT and the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE will be celebrating their world premiere. The Czech car manufacturer is continuing its campaign in the SUV segment with the new ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT model variant. The ŠKODA KODIAQ SCOUT comes equipped with all-wheel drive as standard and emphasises its off-road capabilities both visually and through its technological features. For fans of a sporty appearance, the Czech car manufacturer has designed the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE as an elegant and dynamic SUV variant. The exterior and interior are both characterised by specially designed features. There is a choice of four engine versions available for the ŠKODA KODIAQ SPORTLINE: two TSI petrol engines and two TDI diesel engines ranging from 150 PS to 190 PS.

Premiere for the upgraded ŠKODA RAPID and ŠKODA RAPID SPACEBACK

The ŠKODA RAPID sets the benchmark for spaciousness amongst its direct competitors. Design and equipment have now been upgraded further. In Geneva, the ŠKODA RAPID SPACEBACK is on show in the sporty Monte Carlo trim. Numerous black design elements identify the 4,303-mm-long compact car as an athlete at first glance. Looking at the car’s rear, the longer rear window is most eye-catching. Visually, it merges seamlessly into the large tailgate’s upper edge, which is also black.

Premiere for the upgraded ŠKODA CITIGO

The ŠKODA CITIGO and the ŠKODA CITIGO MONTE CARLO are presented in Geneva with a completely redesigned front section and an upgraded interior. The city runabout, available with three or five doors, impresses with a generous amount of space, an excellent layout, a high level of safety, good handling, new, particularly efficient MPI petrol engines and the traditionally attractive value for money.

Premiere for the ŠKODA FABIA with new three-cylinder 1.0-TSI engine

The third generation of the ŠKODA FABIA impresses with a dynamic and emotive design, a large amount of interior space, innovative safety, comfort and infotainment systems‚ and numerous ‘Simply Clever’ features. A new three-cylinder-engine is available with two different power outputs. Its aluminium pistons and the connecting rods are so well balanced that the engine runs almost friction-free, quietly and smoothly. Thanks to an increase in injection pressure to 250 bar, both power variants of the new 1.0-litre engine achieve good driving performance and reduction in fuel consumption of up to six per cent.

Alfa Romeo takes it upgraded MiTo and makes a piece if art, view the process and finished picture here.

• To launch the new Alfa MiTo in the UK, Alfa Romeo pushed the performance of its stylish three door supermini to the limit with a driving challenge with a twist
• A masked pro-driver used Alfa Romeo’s exclusive D.N.A driving mode selector to create a MiTo Work of Art, all captured using the new dual camera on the iPhone 7 Plus
• The new Alfa MiTo is available to order now from Alfa Romeo showrooms with prices starting from £12,960 OTR

Alfa Romeo put the stylish three door supermini, which features a new look and more technology, to the test in a unique video to show how the new Alfa MiTo’s urban style and strong personality puts fun back into drivers’ hands.

To capture the new Alfa MiTo’s dynamic spirit and driving capabilities when it comes to performance and agility, the Italian manufacturer placed the spirited supermini in the hands of a masked pro-driver to tackle a warehouse course of colourful powder and paint, and ultimately create an Alfa MiTo work of art. 

In an industry first, the video was captured using the new dual camera feature on the water resistant new iPhone 7 Plus and compatible accessories.

The new Alfa MiTo is equipped with Alfa Romeo’s unique D.N.A system, a driving mode selector which adapts the vehicle’s performance to suit the driver’s style and road conditions.

Starting in Dynamic mode, the new Alfa MiTo blasted through the powder circuit with ease, showing off its sporty performance and stylish new look.

Once the All-Weather mode was selected, the slippery paint also proved no challenge to the new Alfa MiTo thanks to the mode’s improved control and handling in adverse weather conditions. The paint stage also put the iPhone 7’s new water resistant handset to the test.

Damien Dally, Alfa Romeo UK Country Manager said, “This demonstration of the new Alfa MiTo’s agility and performance shows the quality of the technology at play in our cars and highlights how the stylish, dynamic new Alfa MiTo can be ready for anything at the flick of a switch.”

The new Alfa MiTo has a stand-out style with a new sports grille, new alloy wheel designs and new badging emulating the style of the highly anticipated Alfa Romeo Giulia. The new range consists of four trim levels (MiTo, Super, Speciale and the range-topping Veloce) with interior updates including enhanced detailing, new upholsteries and improved technologies.

The range becomes even more tempting with the introduction of an updated 1.3-litre JTDM-2 diesel with increased output of 95hp and lower emissions of just 89g/km. 

The new Alfa MiTo is available to order now from Alfa Romeo showrooms, priced from £12,960 OTR. For more information on the full Alfa Romeo range or to book a test drive, visit alfaromeo.co.uk.

The 2017 model year Kia Carens gets a raft of revisions with some exterior changes and interior updates.

• Spacious family MPV sees host of upgrades to exterior design
• Interior refinement improved with higher quality materials and trim options
• Advanced connectivity,  New JBL® Premium Sound system and infotainment solutions

Kia has announced details of a range of upgrades to the Kia Carens MPV. The updated Carens will be available in the UK from late 2016. 

The enhancements have refreshed the appearance and functionality of the Carens, bringing it up-to-date with Kia’s latest model designs, improving in-cabin ambience, and updating the safety and connectivity features on offer to buyers.

Sales of the Kia Carens have grown steadily since the latest model was introduced in 2013 and the model holds an important position in the Kia range as the ideal vehicle for families. 

The upgraded Carens will help Kia further expand sales of the car, which has contributed to the Korean brand’s best-ever six-month period recorded in the first six months of 2016.

Revised exterior and interior design

Kia’s designers have introduced a series of changes to the upgraded Carens, including revised front and rear bumpers and fog lamp design, and an updated ‘tiger-nose’ grille, resulting in a more sculpted appearance. These changes are accompanied by the addition of a new exterior paint finish, Mysterious Blue, as well as three new designs for 16-, 17- and 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels. The updated model also boasts new rear combination lamps with a distinctive new light signature.

The Carens’ spacious seven-seat interior is enhanced with the adoption of a new seat upholstery – available with a new knit cloth pattern, or leather with a diamond-woven pattern – as well as new metallic and gloss-black accents throughout the cabin, and a new carbon-effect dashboard trim. The interior of the Carens is available with either black or beige upholstery.

Advanced safety and infotainment features

The latest version of the Carens is available with Kia’s 7.0- or 8.0-inch touchscreen HMI (human-machine interface), with navigation, Kia Connected Services powered by TomTom®, and rear-view parking camera. The new HMI also incorporates Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ for full smartphone integration. Android Auto™ is designed to work with Android phones running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher; Apple CarPlay™, for iPhone 5 or newer on selected models.

A new JBL®Premium Sound system, which features a subwoofer, external amplifier and six speakers for greater audio quality throughout the cabin will feature on selected UK models.

New Eco Pack available

Kia has engineered a new Eco Pack for the 114 bhp 1.7-litre diesel engine, incorporating Idle Stop/Go (ISG) technology, Michelin low rolling resistance tyres, and a series of revised gear ratios. The most economical engine in the Carens line-up, the ISG-equipped Carens is now capable of producing carbon dioxide emissions as low as 109 g/km when paired with the car’s six-speed manual transmission (combined, New European Driving Cycle).

2017 Kia Carens on sale in UK from late 2016

The upgraded Kia Carens will be on sale across Kia’s UK dealer network from late 2016, full UK specification and pricing will be released at launch.

PARIS - Infiniti has the World Debut for the upgraded Q50 Sports saloon with more in car tech and more colours.

• World debut for upgraded 2017 Q50 sports sedan in Paris
• New exterior colors and customization options; Designer Pack for interior
• Introduction of 16-speaker Bose® Performance Series sound system
• New Telematic Control Unit for European models

INFINITI has enhanced the 2017 Q50 sports sedan with new exterior and interior design features and the adoption of new in-car technologies. The upgraded 2017 INFINITI Q50 will make its World debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show (Mondial de l'Automobile) on 29 September 2016.

The Q50 sports sedan has been further developed to offer buyers a higher level of personalization and driving engagement, bringing INFINITI's signature design, empowering driver technology, and exhilarating performance to the sports sedan segment.

The enhancements come at a time of significant momentum for the Q50. Global sales of the car have grown 6 percent in the first eight months of 2016 compared to the same period in 2015, with more than 144, 675 sold from January to August.

Design: new colors and customization options

The 2017 Q50 is available with a trio of new metallic exterior colors: Midnight Black, Pure White, and – replacing Venetian Red – Dynamic Sunstone Red. The latter color is the result of a new paint application process developed by INFINITI which employs a combination of coating machinery and manual techniques to achieve the deep, lustrous finish.

Red brake calipers have been added to Q50 Red Sport 400 models, powered by INFINITI's all-new 400 hp 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo "VR" engine.

Inside the 2017 Q50, buyers can now specify a new Designer Pack for the cabin, which includes new Graphite or Java Brown colors for the quilted semi-aniline leather cabin upholstery, a new open-pore dark wood veneer, dark chrome trim and a black roof lining.

Technology: comfort, convenience, and connectivity

Buyers of the 2017 Q50 can specify a new Bose® Performance Series sound system, which features 16 speakers and all-new electronic architecture with high-performance components. Other than the Q60 coupe, the Q50 is the only car worldwide to feature this high-powered, custom-engineered system. The fully-immersive Bose audio system is engineered to transform the cabin into the driver's very own audio haven, and features an 'industrial' design, adding an even more distinctive, high quality look and feel to the cabin.

For European markets, INFINITI has equipped the 2017 Q50 with a new Telematic Control Unit, allowing the owner to control elements of their car remotely via INFINITI's InTouch Services smartphone app, for greater security and convenience. New features include remote engine start, car locator, and stolen vehicle tracking.

The 2017 Q50 goes on sale in selected markets later this year.

PARIS - Infiniti looks forward with the next gen Q50, VC-Turbo variable compression engine & QX Sport Inspiration concept.

• Global debut for VC-Turbo engine – the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine
• Design evolution for 2016 QX Sport Inspiration concept
• World debut for upgraded 2017 Q50 sports saloon

INFINITI is giving attendees of the 2016 Paris Motor Show (Mondial de l’Automobile) a glimpse into automotive future today (29 September 2016), with the reveal of ground-breaking new engine technology.

INFINITI’s new VC-Turbo (Variable Compression Turbo) is the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine. Promising to be one of the most advanced internal combustion engines ever created, VC-Turbo technology combines the power of a high-performance 2.0-litre turbo gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of an advanced diesel powertrain – without the equivalent emissions.

Roland Krueger, President of INFINITI Motor Company, commented: “The pioneering new VC-Turbo powertrain represents a leap forward for engine development. Vehicle engineers believe the breakthrough in internal combustion technology would come from mastering the variable compression ratio.  INFINITI will be the first to bring this technology to the market in 2018. This new generation of powertrains will help our global growth and expansion of the INFINITI product portfolio.”

Making its European debut in Paris is the INFINITI QX Sport Inspiration Concept, laying down markers for the design of future INFINITI QX models. 

The daring new concept has received some design upgrades since its global reveal at the Beijing Auto Show in April 2016, and explores the brand’s vision for a next-generation, mid-size premium SUV.

They are joined in Paris by the updated Q50 sports saloon, refreshed for 2017 with new design features and INFINITI’s InTouch in-car technology.

VC-Turbo: The first production-ready variable compression engine

Transforming on demand, INFINITI’s VC-Turbo technology uses an advanced multi-link system to seamlessly raise or lower the reach of the pistons, detecting the car’s driving condition and driver inputs, and instantly selecting the most suitable compression ratio. The engine is able to offer any compression ratio between 8:1 (for high performance) and 14:1 (for high efficiency).

With a development target power output of approximately 200 kW (268 hp / 272 ps) and 390 Nm torque, the VC-Turbo engine will be comparable to certain six-cylinder gasoline powertrains for performance, while significantly outperforming them in efficiency.

The four-cylinder VC-Turbo engine achieves lower levels of noise and vibration than conventional internal combustion engines, particularly diesel, and is lighter and more compact than V6 units with comparable power outputs.

INFINITI’s VC-Turbo technology marks a significant leap forward for the internal combustion engine, joining other renowned powertrain innovations such as liquid-cooling, fuel injection, catalytic convertors, and turbocharging. The arrival of the variable compression ratio engine will establish new benchmarks – for power, efficiency and emissions – against which future powertrains will be measured.

QX Sport Inspiration: the evolution of a concept

Revealed for the first time at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show, the INFINITI QX Sport Inspiration is an elegant and powerful expression of progressive SUV design, and explores the company’s vision for a next-generation, premium mid-size SUV.

INFINITI’s progressive outlook is evident in the QX Sport Inspiration’s elegant yet powerfully proportioned exterior, with upgrades to the Paris show car adding to this confident look. The exterior colour changes to matt grey, while wheels are made larger, now at 22 inches in a striking bronze colour with matching brake calipers.

Flowing lines and advanced craftsmanship characterise the spacious and beautifully appointed interior, which gains kick plate lighting at the base of every door. The interior’s colour palette – predominantly black and white with flashes of the hide’s natural tan colour – is enhanced with sections added in brown leather.

2017 Q50: a premium sports saloon delivering an empowering drive

INFINITI’s continued global sales momentum has been underpinned by the Q50 sports saloon, which has received a range of upgrades for 2017 and is revealed in Paris for the first time globally.

The 2017 Q50 will be available with a new Designer Pack, which includes: new Graphite or Java Brown colours for the semi-aniline leather cabin upholstery, a new open-pore dark wood veneer, dark chrome trim and a black roof lining. Buyers can specify a new Bose® Performance Series sound system, which features 13 speakers, an all-new electronic architecture and high-performance components.

For selected markets, INFINITI has equipped the 2017 Q50 with a new Telematic Control Unit, allowing the owner to control elements of their car remotely via INFINITI’s InTouch Services smartphone app, for greater security and convenience. New features include remote engine start, car locator, and stolen vehicle tracking.

The 2017 Q50 goes on sale in selected markets later this year.

PARIS - Dacia moves its core models, Sandero, Stepway and Logan more upmarket with better interiors and exterior tweaks.

• Refreshed styling for Dacia’s core models – the Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Logan MCV and, in certain European markets, Logan. These models are now more modern and more attractive than ever
• The new entry-level three-cylinder petrol engine – the 1.0-litre SCe 75 – is modern, more economical and Euro6 compliant
• Dacia sales have continued to climb ever since the brand’s relaunch in 2004
• At the end of August 2016 Dacia set a new sales record with more than 391,000 units sold worldwide YTD – an increase of 7.3 per cent compared to 2015
• New Dacia models to go on sale in the UK at the start of 2017

WHAT’S NEW AT THE 2016 PARIS MOTOR SHOW

Dacia has refreshed the design of its three signature models: the Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Logan MCV and, in certain European markets, Logan. A wide range of engine options (including the new SCe 75) is also available, along with a choice of transmissions and new affordable equipment options. Meanwhile, the Duster can be equipped for the first time with EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) automatic transmission for an even more enjoyable drive. 

New Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Logan MCV… always more

Dacia has refreshed the exterior and interior design of its three signature models, namely the Logan MCV, the Sandero and the Sandero Stepway. These enhancements embody Dacia‘s new, more assertive and even more modern lighting signature.

Exterior styling: even more modern and attractive

Dacia design is on the move. The models display a new lighting signature front and rear^[1] for an even more dynamic, contemporary look. The design of the front and rear lights has been revised. The front LED daytime running lights feature a pattern of three stacked rectangles. The rear lighting signature is based on three illuminated squares.

The new Logan MCV and the new Sandero all share a more modern front bumper design, along with chrome detailing for the air intake grille. Meanwhile, the design of the front and rear bumpers^[2] has been reworked to emphasise the models’ muscular stance.

These design enhancements are shown to particularly powerful effect on the new Sandero Stepway. This model has a new frontal identity which picks up on the design cues of the Duster. The grille elegantly combines the black tones of the bumper with chrome detailing which brings an even more dynamic touch to the vehicle’s nose. At the rear, a chromed exhaust tailpipe highlights the car’s tough, ready-for-action character.

Last but not least, the brand’s range of wheel trims and alloy wheels has been updated (depending on individual markets and models).

Status-enhancing interior

The cabins of the new models have been upgraded, too, including a more elegant and more contemporary satin-effect chrome finish for the air vent surrounds, trim strip and centre console fascia. The new four-spoke steering wheel has the horn push in the centre and proudly displays the Dacia logo. The steering wheel on high-end versions stands out through its exclusive Soft Feel finish that is both durable and pleasant to the touch.

On the new Sandero Stepway, the interior door releases are now chrome plated. Models across the range come with new upholstery fabrics with textures and patterns that convey both a fresher feel and an impression of comfort. The upholstery of new Sandero Stepway features a 3D weave for a greater sensation of depth, enhanced by top-stitching.

Even more extensively equipped but still at an affordable price

The new Logan MCV, new Sandero and new Sandero Stepway feature new driver aids designed to make driving even easier and more practical. A reversing camera (depending on version) and Hill Start Assist simplify manoeuvring and, in response to customer feedback, Dacia has relocated the front and rear electric window switches to the door panels. For the driver, the window switch has a handy one-touch function, while comfort is further enhanced by a retractable armrest incorporated into the driver’s seat (depending on version).

The cabin is as spacious as ever and even more practical thanks numerous stowage spaces, including a front mobile phone cubby hole and a tray on the side of the console to accommodate small items. The new centre console design incorporates a bottle holder at the rear. Also new is a 12-volt power socket which allows rear passengers to charge mobile devices.

A new engine, the SCe 75

Seven different powertrains are available from launch, including the new, Euro 6-compliant SCe 75. This 75-horsepower, three-cylinder, 1.0-litre unit has benefited from Renault’s expertise. The result is a CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption saving of almost 10 per cent^[3] .

Dacia offers a broad range of engine-transmission combinations:

• Petrol: SCe 75 / TCe 90 with Stop&Start (S&S) / TCe 90 S&S LPG / TCe 90 S&S mated to Easy-R automated manual transmission.
• Diesel: dCi 75 S&S / dCi 90 S&S with either a manual gearbox or Easy-R automated manual transmission.

DACIA SALES CONTINUE TO CLIMB

Since its revival in 2004, Dacia has soldmore than four million vehicles, mainly in Europe and the Mediterranean region. Dacia set a new sales record at the end of August 2016, selling more than 391,000 units and reporting a 7.3 per cent increase in sales. Its market share increases in Europe +0.1 point (2.5%), in Eurasia + 0.1 point (7.9%) and + 1.7 point in Maghreb (17.8%). Dacia remains a hugely popular brand among its customers.

Record sales

At end-August 2016, Dacia had sold 391,098 units globally, a gain of 7.3 per cent. No fewer than 27 of the 44 markets where the Dacia brand is sold set markets share or sales records as of end-August 2016.

• In Europe, Dacia’s sales totalled 288,477 units – a new record and an increase of 12.5 per cent. The Sandero is Europe’s third best-B-segment selling vehicle to retail customers^[4]. The Dacia Duster is the second best-selling C-segment vehicle to retail customers in Europe.
• In France, Dacia reported a 12.3 per cent rise in sales to 77,671 vehicles and set a new record for passenger car sales. The brand beat its existing record for passenger car sales, with more than 76,000 registrations. Sales of the Sandero climbed by 26.7 per cent and the model moved up three spots in the French rankings. The Sandero was the second top-selling car to retail customers.
• In other European countries, Dacia saw its sales increase by 12.6 per cent to 210,806 units. In Italy, the brand posted record sales of 38,316 units, up 18.2 per cent. New records were also set in Spain (39,192 units) and Poland (13,381 units), where Dacia reported its highest-ever market share at 4.3 per cent. Dacia also posted record market share in the Czech Republic at 4.8 per cent.
• In Morocco, Dacia’s sales grew by 21.9 per cent to 28,327 units. The brand was still in the lead in the passenger car and LCV market combined, scoring a 26.4 per cent market share.
• In Turkey, with 26,984 sales, Dacia still beat its previous records for market share (up 4.7 per cent).

Active in 44 countries, Dacia aims to build on recent new model releases in its mainstream range to boost its popularity.

For more than 10 years, the Dacia brand has stood out as a major player in the car market thanks to its straightforward policy of manufacturing attractive models that provide real value for money for the equipment they feature.

Dacia customers keep close contact with the brand

Dacia customers show their commitment to the brand on Facebook, which has a community of more than three million Dacia fans. Dacia Picnics are now a tradition and each year attract several thousand people in a number of different countries.

Customer loyalty has driven the brand’s commercial success. On June 26, more than 11,000 customers attended Dacia’s eighth annual picnic in France. Similar events held in Denmark and Germany attracted 3,000 people and 5,500 people, respectively. In the UK, the Dacia Day is into its fourth year where everyone enjoys a friendly atmosphere and a fun-packed day.