Toyota's Sequoia adds Entune® to 2014 models

• Full-size, full-capability SUV with seating for up to eight
• New standard Entune® Audio
• Standard 381-hp V8 and four-wheel independent suspension
• Up to 7,400 lbs. tow capacity

After debuting a Toyota first factory-installed Blu-Ray®rear seat entertainment system for 2013, the family-friendly Toyota Sequoia steps up multimedia for 2014 with new Entune® Audio. With seating for up to eight, this full-size, full-capability sport-utility vehicle (SUV) is available in SR5, Limited and Platinum grades, with a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 standard for all models and up to 7,400 lbs. towing capacity.
       
The Sequoia offers roomy seating for up to eight in three rows. For 2014, the Sequoia SR5 grade adds the new Entune Audio Plus system, while the Limited gets Entune Premium Audio and the Platinum grade has Entune Premium JBL® Audio. The latter is an option for the Limited.
       
Entune Audio leverages the user’s mobile smartphone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated access to navigation, entertainment and information services. Entune features engaging mobile apps, including Bing™, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable®, Pandora®, Yelp, and Facebook Places, plus real-time traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and stocks.

Performance
Toyota builds the Sequoia on an exclusive body-on-frame platform that features four-wheel independent suspension to help provide exemplary ride quality, handling and straight-line control. The Sequoia model line offers the choice of 2WD and 4WD. In select areas, Sequoia 4x4 models feature E85 Flex Fuel capability.

       
The standard iForce DOHC 5.7-liter V8 comes teamed to a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. The 5.7-liter engine produces 381 hp at 5,600 RPM and 401 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 RPM. Dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and an Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) ensure ample torque across the engine speed range. The ACIS system switches the intake tract length in two stages, based on engine RPM and throttle angle. Underscoring traditional Toyota value, the Sequoia uses regular-grade fuel.
       
Compliant with the SAE J2807 towing standard, the powerful V8 enables the Sequoia to tow up to 7,400 lbs., depending on model grade and equipment. Producing 90 percent of its peak torque at just 2,200 rpm, the 5.7-liter V8 makes an outstanding towing partner. Other features reinforce the Sequoia’s towing capability, including a towing hitch integrated into the frame as a single unit and a selectable Tow/Haul mode that modifies transmission shift points for optimal performance. The Trailer Sway Control system uses the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help counteract handling forces acting on the SUV in an effort to minimize the impact of trailer sway.
       
Toyota’s flexible torque converter lock-up control enhances the six-speed automatic transmission’s efficiency, with lock-up occurring in fourth, fifth and sixth gears. The available Multi-Mode four-wheel-drive system uses a two-speed transfer case with a lockable TORSEN® limited-slip center differential to power the front and rear wheels. The transfer case is shifted electronically via a rotary knob, and it locks with the push of a button.

Handling and Ride
The four-wheel independent suspension uses upper and lower A-arms and coil springs at each wheel. The Sequoia Platinum model is equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which adjusts damper response with settings for Comfort, Normal and Sport. The Platinum grade’s Electronically Modulated Air Suspension also augments the Sequoia's ability to tow and haul heavy loads while maintaining an appropriate ride height and chassis attitude. The SR5’s standard 18-inch aluminum wheels have 275/65 R18 tires; 20-inch aluminum wheels with 275/55 R20 tires are standard for the Limited and Platinum grades, with the wheels on the Platinum featuring a diamond-cut finish.

       
The Sequoia’s 38-foot turning circle is one of the tightest in the class. Sequoia uses 13.9-inch ventilated front disc brakes and 13.6-inch ventilated rear disc brakes. Four opposed pistons – two per side – ensure optimal braking performance and fade resistance.

Safety
Like all Toyota models, the 2014 Sequoia is equipped with Toyota's STAR Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC) and Smart Stop Technology (SST). On 4WD models, TRAC is replaced by A-TRAC (Active-Traction Control).
         
The 2014 Sequoia is equipped with a dual stage advanced front air bag system, seat-mounted side airbags for the driver and front passenger, roll-sensing side curtain airbags for all three seating rows, plus driver and front passenger knee airbags.

Comfort and Convenience
The SR5 grade comes ready to work and play hard with a standard towing package, an eight-way power driver’s seat, fog lamps, running boards, power tilt/slide moonroof, a roof rack and rear spoiler, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio and climate controls.

The Sequoia SR5 is undoubtedly one of the best-equipped vehicles in its class, featuring standard eight-passenger seating; tilt/telescoping steering wheel; engine immobilizer with alarm; direct tire pressure monitoring system; automatic tri-zone air conditioning; illuminated entry system; power windows, locks and sliding back window; keyless entry; rear wiper and defogger; cruise control, and mud guards.

       
Standard audio on the SR5 includes the Entune Audio Plus system with a high resolution 6.1-inch touch-screen display, AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, eight speakers, SiriusXM Radio (includes a 90-day trial subscription to XM Select Package), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod® connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology. Entune App Suite expands music choices with Internet radio, including iHeartRadio and Pandora.
       
The Sequoia Limited adds functionality with front and rear parking sonar; power rear liftgate with a sliding window; power folding and reclining 60:40 split third-row seat, and 20-inch alloy wheels. Luxury takes a big step up with a standard power tilt/slide moonroof; heated front leather-trimmed seats, second- and third-row retractable sunshades and a eather-trimmed tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio, climate, and Bluetooth® hands-free phone controls.
       
The Limited grade also features standard 10-way adjustable power driver’s seat; a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear shift knob; Optitron gauges; and a multi-information display. A standard-equipped auto-dimming electrochromic rear-view mirror integrates a compass and a map lamp, plus a 3.3-inch monitor in the rear-view mirror for the backup camera (when not equipped with a navigation system).
       
The Sequoia Limited grade’s Entune Premium Audio system combines an AM/FM 6-disc CD changer with MP3/WMA playback capability, 14 speakers including subwoofer, SiriusXM Radio (includes three-month trial subscription to XM Select Package), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod® connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth®wireless technology.
     
At the top of the Sequoia line, the Platinum grade comes with standard Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, which can help maintain a set distance from vehicles ahead. A standard rear seat Blue-Ray entertainment system combines a nine-inch LCD screen with a separate rear seat audio system, including dual wireless headphones.
       

Additional standard features exclusive to the Sequoia Platinum grade include a 12-way adjustable power driver’s seat and simulated wood-trim; 20-inch diamond cut-finish alloy wheels; rear load-leveling air suspension; power seat memory package; second-row heated seats, and steering wheel with simulated wood trim.
       
The Platinum grade also features a voice-activated touch-screen DVD with integrated backup camera display, Entune Premium JBL Audio with Navigation and App Suite AM/FM 4-disc CD changer with MP3/WMA playback capability, 14 speakers including subwoofer, SiriusXM™ Radio with NavTraffic™ (includes three-month trial subscription to XM Select Package and NavTraffic™), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod® connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth®wireless technology. Entune services are subscription free.

Options      
With its extensive list of standard features, the 2014 Sequoia offers just a small menu of factory options. The SR5 grade offers a Sport Appearance Package that includes second-row captain seats, 20-inch super chrome alloy wheels, color-keyed grille, and black seat fabric. Exterior colors for the Sport Appearance Package are limited to black, white and silver.
       
A Premium Package available on SR5 models includes a leather-trimmed and heated 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat; four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat; a leather-trimmed 40/20/40 split sliding, reclining, fold-flat second-row seat with one-touch access to the third-row seat; a leather-trimmed 60/40 split, power reclining, fold-flat third-row seat; and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with an integrated backup camera monitor, compass, map lights and HomeLink® universal transceiver.

The Limited offers a DVD navigation system with a backup camera, with another package including a Rear Seat Entertainment System with Blu-Ray player, rear audio controls, 115V outlet and the Entune Premium JBL Audio with Navigation and App Suite. That package can be specified with captain seats to replace the standard second row bench seat at no additional charge.

Exterior Design
The Sequoia’s 0.36 drag coefficient (Cd) is comparable to some smaller crossover-type vehicles. The vehicle's mirrors, wipers, A-pillars and roof header are shaped to help maximize aerodynamic efficiency and minimize wind noise. Vehicle underside airflow is optimized to reduce drag and wind noise and to help improve directional control.

     
 
Headlamp washers are standard on all Sequoia grades for improved visibility. On the Limited grade, the large side-view mirrors feature power retraction, automatic glare-resistance, and turn-signal lamps. In addition to these features, the Platinum grade mirrors also include puddle lamps, position memory and reverse-linked tilt functions.
       
The wide rear door-opening angle provides easy passenger ingress/egress and child seat installation. Standard front and rear parking sonar sensors on the Limited and Platinum models emit an audible warning to alert the driver of the position of solid objects and their distance from the vehicle.

Interior Design
The Sequoia dash features a finish similar to that in fine luxury cars. Each of Sequoia's eight seating positions provides space sufficient to comfortably accommodate people well above normal height. The same efficient packaging that allows exceptional interior comfort also allows carrying items up to 11 feet long. Folding the second- and third-row seats flat opens the cargo area to 120.1 cubic feet of carrying capacity.
     
The second-row bench-type seat is split 40:20:40 and is equipped with a seat-slide mechanism that offers an adjustment range of 5.9 inches. This seat can also be folded flat and uses a one-touch easy-slide action to allow passenger access to the third-row seat. Second-row captain seats are available for a seven-seat cabin.
       
The third-row seat is split 60:40, has a seatback reclining mechanism and can be easily folded flat. A power tilting and folding mechanism is available. The rear liftgate sliding glass can be opened and closed for easy loading with the turn of a key. The cargo area is equipped with handy hooks for grocery bags. Sequoia provides 16 extra-large cup/bottle holders (18 on the Platinum grade), as well as convenient storage spaces.
       
All three grades offer two interior color choices of Graphite and Sand Beige. A Red Rock interior is also available on the Platinum grade, and the SR5 Sport Appearance Package uses an exclusive black interior.

Limited Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty. The Sequoia will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

F-Type takes another awrd to add to its ever growing collection.

The Jaguar F-TYPE has been voted the winner of the Autonis design award by the respected German motoring magazine,Auto Motor und Sport, following a poll of its readers.

The F-TYPE, which has been available in Germany since May of this year, was judged in the convertible segment - one of eight categories - taking top-spot with an outstanding 32 percent of almost 18,000 reader votes.

Jaguar Director of Design, Ian Callum, and Peter Modelhart, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover Germany, accepted the prize at an awards ceremony at Hohenheim Castle yesterday evening.

Speaking from the ceremony, Ian Callum said: "Creating the F-TYPE has given both my team and I great satisfaction. Working on a sports car that holds true to Jaguar's design values - beauty of line and purity of form - has been a great privilege, and I'm honored the readers of Auto Motor und Sport have recognized our work with this award."

Datsun to produce a new model for Indionesia

• Datsun continues to unveil models developed for its key launch markets and introduces a second all-new car, developed for Indonesia - Datsun GO+
• Datsun confirms the introduction of another new model - Datsun GO to Indonesia in 2014
• Both distinctive and practical Datsun GO+ and agile Datsun GO will be priced below 100 Million Indonesian rupiah
• Datsun GO+ will create an all-new segment in Indonesia, being the only model with three rows of seats in this price range
• Both cars will be produced at Nissan Motor plant in Purwakarta, Indonesia

The Datsun brand is expanding its global footprint rapidly with today's world premiere of the all-new Datsun GO+ in Jakarta. Datsun also confirmed that the Datsun GO hatchback will become the second product in the brand's Indonesian range from 2014, with specific tailoring for the needs of Indonesian customers. Today's world premiere represents the Datsun model line-up debut in Indonesia.

"With the return of the Datsun brand, we are changing mobility. And we're ensuring greater access to the pride, independence and opportunities that car ownership provides. It's exciting to know that, for many Indonesians, the first new car they buy will be a Datsun," said Carlos Ghosn, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. President and CEO, unveiling the cars.

The Datsun GO+ is a 5+2 MPV developed as a move-able cozy family lounge able to accommodate all family members in one car for the journey.

It is a modern distinctive car with sleek, dynamic silhouette and strong shoulder line. The clean and robust body styling will undoubtedly make it stand-out from the crowd. With its compact dimensions, the car is versatile and practical five-door three-row MPV with smart front-seating configuration. Depending on the family-customers' needs, the new Datsun GO+ will offer extra two seats in the back or an additional cargo space.

The car will be offered with Datsun Mobile Docking Station - the practical solution of smart-phones integration into the car.

The light-weight Datsun GO+ is equipped with a 1.2L engine and 5-speed manual transmission, tuned for fuel efficiency and good acceleration, whilst delivering agility on congested roads. And, its suitability for demanding city conditions is reinforced by its compact dimensions, with an overall length of 3,995 mm, width of 1,635 mm and a height of 1,485 mm. Its wheelbase is 2,450 mm, the key to its spacious interior.

The name of the car - Datsun GO+ - clearly highlights its membership of the new Datsun family, but at the same time refers to its extended capabilities.

Central to Datsun's philosophy is the principle that the cars' development and refinement is to be carried out by the engineers in the region following a careful study of the needs, lifestyle and driving patterns of local customers. The entire development process has been undertaken using the same processes and best practices to meet Nissan Motor's global technical standards.

By offering two models Datsun not only opens the door to personal mobility to a wide number of the up-&-coming families who will now be able to realize the dream of owning a new and modern car, but moreover creates a choice of practical 5+2 MPV or agile five-door hatchback without sacrificing any important features & qualities.

With launch of these two cars onto Indonesian market, the Datsun brand aims to account for up to 50% of the total Nissan Motor sales in 2016 in Indonesia and contribute to Indonesia's continued motorization and the governmental initiative aimed for boosting of domestic vehicles and components' production and introduction of accessible and eco-friendly cars in Indonesia.

Both cars will be priced below 100 Million Indonesian rupiah - a price point where very limited propositions exist at the moment.

As in all other markets where Datsun will be launched, the customers in Indonesia will get a worry-free ownership experience at competitive total cost, as well as accessible and transparent services.

Both Datsun GO and Datsun GO+ for the Indonesian market will be locally produced at the Nissan Motor plant in Purwakarta, 80 km east of Jakarta, Indonesia and will go on sale during 2014.

2014 Acura TSX sedan and Sport Wagon continue sporting streak.

With engaging, athletic handling, the 2014 Acura TSX Sedan and Sport Wagon continue a well-established sporting streak. And with comfortable space for five passengers coupled with compact exterior dimensions, the TSX also hits the sweet spot for drivers with an enthusiast's mindset.

The TSX model lineup carries over for 2014, starting with the 4-cylinder TSX Sedan with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $30,635, including a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission. An available Technology Package adds a range of desirable features.

The TSX Special Edition Sedan is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, and adds an ebony interior with red stitching, red instrument illumination and other upgrades. The TSX V-6 with Technology Package tops the sedan lineup. The TSX Sport Wagon is powered exclusively by the TSX Sedan's 4-cylinder engine paired with a Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, and has a MSRP of $31,9851. The Technology Package is the sole available upgrade to the TSX Sport Wagon.

The TSX Sedan goes on-sale today; the TSX Sport Wagon goes on-sale September 27.

Exterior
The TSX fully looks the part of a sport sedan, with bold lines and a wide, powerful stance. The 2014 TSX comes well equipped with standard features such as Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights and a glass moonroof. With the TSX Sport Wagon model, sport-sedan styling and added utility join to create a perfect mix for those who lead an active lifestyle.

The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder models (Sedan and Sport Wagon) feature standard 17-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels, while split 5-spoke, 18-inch aluminum wheels are standard on the TSX Sedan with 3.5-liter V-6 engine.

The TSX Special Edition Sedan augments the exterior with sport-minded front, side and rear underbody spoilers.

Interior
Inside, the TSX blends sport sedan style with inviting comfort, with standard leather seating highlighted by handsome contrasting-color stitching. An 8-way power driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support and a passenger seat with 4-way power adjustment are standard.

For those who are considering the purchase of a compact SUV - but who value the higher fuel efficiency and dynamic performance of a sports sedan, the TSX Sport Wagon offers a generous 66.2 cubic feet of rear cargo area (with rear seats folded down; 31.5 cu. ft. with the seats up), allowing the Sport Wagon to accommodate bulky items such as large boxes, furniture, bicycles, four full-size golf bags or surfboards.

Acura is known for its powerful, intuitive technology, and the 2014 TSX delivers on this concept. The TSX with the available Technology Package includes an LED backlit full VGA navigation screen, rearview camera, Song By Voice (SBV) user interface, and the ability to download 15-gigabytes of personal music (more than 3,500 songs) to the TSX's hard disk drive (HDD). Grammy® award-winning recording engineer and producer Elliot Scheiner helped design the Acura/ELS Surround®3 Premium 10-speaker Sound System to reproduce music the way it is heard in the recording studio.

Powertrain
The 2014 TSX Sedan model range offers two powerful engine choices: a responsive 201-horsepower 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine4 and a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V-65. Both engines are paired with a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The 4-cylinder TSX Special Edition Sedan offers the alternate choice of a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission as a no-cost option.

Safety
Standard safety equipment on all Acura models includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control, ABS, dual-stage/multiple-threshold front airbags, front-side airbags, side curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions, front seatbelts with automatic tensioning system and load limiters, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Daytime Running Lights (DRL).

The 2013 TSX earned the top-level rating of GOOD in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) moderate overlap frontal barrier crash test, side impact crash test and roof strength test. It was also named a 2013 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

Nissan USA announces pricing for 2014 Quest

Nissan today announced U.S. pricing for the 2014 Nissan Quest, which is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide. Pricing remains unchanged from 2013, with a starting M.S.R.P.* of $25,990 USD.

For 2014, the Nissan Quest minivan once again offers an extensive list of family-friendly features - from its bold styling with full surround glass that provides an airy, open interior environment to one-touch power sliding doors, quick release fold-flat 2nd and 3rd row seats, Advanced Climate Control System and an always-available rear storage well. Two new exterior colors are added for 2014: Titanium and Gun Metallic.

Key features of the Nissan Quest minivan include standard Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Ignition and optional one-touch power-sliding doors, which unlock and open the side door with the simple touch of a button; quick-release fold-flat 2nd and 3rd row seats - the 3rd row folds forward unlike any other minivan, so there is no stowing required; available Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS); and a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Easy Fill Tire Alert.

All 2014 Quest models feature a standard VQ-series 3.5-liter DOHC V6 rated at 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, and an advanced Xtronic CVT® transmission that provides a smooth driving experience. Fuel economy is rated at 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway. Quest also features 4-wheel independent suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes and vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering.

Quest is offered in four well-equipped models: S, SV, SL and LE. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2014 Nissan Quest:

Quest 3.5 S $25,990 USD
Quest 3.5 SV $29,740 USD
Quest 3.5 SL $33,520 USD
Quest 3.5 LE $42,640 USD

Destination and Handling $860.

One Million cadillacs from one plant in 12 years, not bad going

The millionth Cadillac built at the Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant rolled off the line today. Fittingly, the milestone vehicle is an early model of the redesigned 2014 CTS sedan, which goes on sale in October.

Lansing Grand River, or LGR as it is known, has been a dedicated rear wheel-drive assembly plant since it opened in late 2001. Every CTS ever made has been built there.

In addition to the CTS, the plant also assembles the award-winning ATS sport sedan, the CTS Coupe and Wagon, and the CTS-V high performance models. Cadillacs from Lansing are exported from Michigan to 11 destinations worldwide.

“One million Michigan-made Cadillacs is a great milestone for Lansing and for luxury car-building in America,” said Bob Ferguson, senior vice president Global Cadillac. “Lansing Grand River is an essential ingredient of Cadillac’s growth. It is a benchmark for luxury car manufacturing in North America, which takes another step forward today with the launch of the new CTS.”

The celebrated 2014 CTS sedan is painted in Red Obsession Tintcoat. The 2014 CTS is elevated and expanded, with more luxury, performance and technical sophistication. The third generation luxury sedan is larger and more spacious, but lighter because of advanced design and materials. The low mass approach is expected to enable CTS to deliver the most agile and engaging driving performance in the midsize luxury class.

A total of 1,541 employees are divided among two shifts at Lansing Grand River, a 2.5 million square foot facility on 111 acres.

General Motors has invested extensively in LGR in the past three years -- $190 million for the production of the Cadillac ATS and $88 million for the new CTS.

Since its completion 12 years ago, Lansing Grand River has produced more Cadillacs than any other plant. The Escalade sport utility vehicle is produced at the Arlington Assembly in Arlington, Texas. The ELR luxury coupe begins production later this year at GM’s Detroit-Hamtramck facility in Hamtramck, Mich.

Dacia UK does it again, a great offer for the Duster SUV

Dacia’s set the UK car market alight in recent months with its “shockingly affordable” four-model range. Now it’s looking to clean up completely with a stunning Duster deal from under £100 per month.

Rampant Dacia is offering Brits arguably the ultimate new car “smart buy” with the chance to get behind the wheel of its multi-award-winning flagship for just £99 per month*. Or, to put it another way, a chunky, family-friendly SUV for the price of a one-litre, three-door Volkswagen up! city car**.

The jaw-dropping offer, available through Dacia Finance, is for the Duster Access 1.6 4x2 over four years. What’s the catch? There isn’t a cash one. The only condition is that each Duster’s got to be ordered and registered by the end of 2013.

For only £20 more per month, buyers can upgrade to attractive Ambiance 4x2 spec with the fuel-sipping 1.5 dCi 110 engine. The mid-level version brings a series of creature comforts such as 4x20W radio CD, Bluetooth, AUX/USB connection and electric front windows.

The range-topping Lauréate, simply priced at a further £20 per month for the 4x2 dCi 110 version, offers a heady mix of air conditioning, front and rear electric windows, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors and leather steering wheel. Its chunky looks are beefed up with the addition of alloy wheels, plus satin chrome styling touches and roof bars too.

Incredibly, for unbeatable peace of mind motoring, all Dusters even come with free servicing (3 years/60,000 miles).

Dacia has clearly struck a chord with budget-conscious new and used car buyers up and down the country. Year-to-date, Duster is already in fifth place for retail SUV sales (C-SUV segment), outselling well-established competitors such as the Ford Kuga and Skoda Yeti.

Its success undoubtedly comes down to more than mere affordability though. Its stylish SUV scores high on practicality and reliability, together with low-running costs and fuel-efficient engines. It’s got a roomy cabin and huge boot to round off its tempting package. Plus, the bonus of rugged off-road capability in its 4x4 guises.

New caterham concept debuts at Singapore GP

• First glimpse of new road model to arrive in 2014
• Co-designed and developed by the complementary divisions of the Caterham Group
• Styling and engineering concepts reflect direction for future Caterham models

Caterham Cars has today unveiled the AeroSeven Concept at the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix – an exciting new performance concept road car.

As the first model designed with significant input from all of the Caterham Group’s specialist business arms, the AeroSeven Concept signals the brand’s intentions in terms of product engineering processes, speed to market, as well as a hint to its styling direction for future models, including the all-new sportscar being developed in conjunction with Renault and due for release in early 2016.

The AeroSeven Concept, which draws heavily on methods used by the F1 team, will be the first ever Caterham model to be fitted with traction control. Thanks to a newly developed Caterham Engine Management System, drivers will be able to enjoy fully-adjustable traction and launch control functionality.

Based on an updated interpretation of the highly acclaimed Seven CSR platform, the carbon-fibre bodied concept vehicle, which will reach 100kph (62.5mph) in under 4 seconds, will initially draw its power from the normally-aspirated, EU6-approved, 240ps (237bhp) engine developed by Caterham Technology & Innovation for the recently launched Caterham Seven 485. Other engines are also being assessed for suitability.  

The AeroSeven Concept is stacked with race car-inspired features, including aerodynamic styling, an exclusive steering wheel with driver-focussed functionality, and an intuitive fully active Graphical Display Unit (GDU).

Graham Macdonald, Managing Director of Caterham Cars, said: “Over the coming years, we will be expanding our range of sportscars as we look to meet the differing needs and desires of potential customers – from the lifestyle customer to the ultimate thrill-seeker. The AeroSeven Concept is the first model in that journey.”

Delivery of the production version of the concept model will begin in autumn 2014.

Exterior

It is in the car’s full bodywork styling that the most striking differences to past Caterham products lies.

The stunning design of the two-seater balances function and form to increase downforce while vastly improving the drag coefficient; the new body shape also imparts subtly different handling characteristics to complement the revised chassis.  

Using inputs from Caterham F1 Team performance director, John Iley, and the CTI design team, the fundamental shape of the car was created. Ongoing optimisation continues to take place using Computational Fluid Dynamics expertise from the F1 aerodynamic group, in conjunction with circuit and wind tunnel testing.

The AeroSeven Concept incorporates a completely new rollover structure, to aid safety and improve aerodynamic performance and enhance aesthetics.

At each corner, the AeroSeven Concept will sit on Avon’s acclaimed CR500 tyres, the motorsport-inspired performance rubber that is also the OE fit on a number of Caterham’s high performance-orientated Sevens.

Powertrain

Achieving a delicate balance between inspiring performance and stringent EU6 emissions regulations, the 240ps (237bhp) Ford Duratec-based engine which will power the vehicle initially delivers its peak power at 8,500rpm, helping to propel the AeroSeven Concept to 100kph in under 4 seconds.

The engine – which also powers the European-homologated Caterham Seven 485 – is one of the world’s highest revving EU6-compliant engines. The two-litre unit is mated to Caterham’s six-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels.

Over the coming months, project engineers will be assessing a number of powerplant options for the final production version.

Dynamics

With expertise drawn from each corner of the Group to develop the bold AeroSeven Concept, the new car features a number of exclusive technologies and attributes not seen on any previous Caterham.

Based on the acclaimed Caterham Seven CSR chassis – featuring fully independent rear and F1-style inboard (pushrod) front suspension – new dampers, springs and anti-roll bars harmonise the car’s aerodynamic characteristics to deliver Caterham’s legendary agility and handling finesse. 

Driver focussed chassis control systems debuting on the AeroSeven Concept include Caterham’s fully variable traction and launch control functions. Caterham is also analysing the feasibility of using Bosch’s race-derived anti-lock braking system.

The Caterham Engine Management System is completely adjustable via steering wheel mounted controls. The system, which can be completely disengaged, has been developed by Cateham Technology and Innovation to enhance the AeroSeven Concept’s performance while giving complete control to the driver.

Interior

Inside, more innovations give a firm nod towards Caterham’s future ambitions.

A brand new fully active graphical display unit (GDU) developed by Caterham Technology & Innovation integrates all display and instrumentation in a high-resolution, centrally mounted unit. It displays information such as engine speed, gear selection, vehicle speed, traction and brake  settings, fuel and oil levels in a smart, intuitive ‘next-generation’, real-time 3D rendered display.

Additionally, the race-inspired steering wheel incorporates ‘Road’ mode, ‘Flash-to-Pass’ and ‘Pit Lane Speed Limiter’ functions.

The car’s default setting is ‘Race’ mode, the reverse of even the most track orientated vehicles. When the steering wheel-mounted button is depressed, ‘Road’ mode is engaged, altering the engine’s character by reducing peak power through a reduced rev limit.

The manufacture and tooling of components for the AeroSeven Concept will be split between Caterham Technology & Innovation in Hingham, Norfolk and Leafield, Oxon, Caterham F1 Team’s base. Production models will be constructed at the Caterham Cars factory in Dartford, UK. 

New European Test Centre officially opened at iconic Nürburgring location for Hyundai

• New European Test Centre officially opened at iconic Nürburgring location
• Hyundai Motor invests more than €6,6 million in its new facility
• Purpose-built site to conduct more accelerated durability tests

Hyundai Motor has officially opened its brand new European Test Centre at the Nürburgring in Germany, the company’s latest investment in its regional infrastructure. An opening ceremony marked the completion of the €6,62 million purpose-built vehicle testing facility, boosting the brand’s R&D operations in Europe.

The company’s new test centre provides it with a full-time presence at the iconic Nürburgring circuit, allowing it to further evaluate and develop the durability and driving dynamics of its vehicles more effectively and more often.

Construction of the striking 3,622m2 Hyundai European Test Centre began in June 2012 and was completed in less than 15 months. The unique glass and steel building houses workshops, office spaces and hospitality areas over four floors. The Nürburgring facility is an extension of Hyundai’s European R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, where the brand’s European design and engineering teams have been based since 2003.

Hyundai’s accelerated durability tests are conducted from the European Test Centre. Each car taking part in the tests laps the Nürburgring 480 times in both dry and wet conditions, simulating over 100,000 miles of rigorous driving in less than six weeks.

Throughout each lap, data parameters are continually monitored, assessing steering input and vehicle course, suspension movement and ride and handling characteristics. The results are given directly to the vehicle development team based at the circuit, enabling Hyundai’s engineers to quickly make changes and tailor cars’ characteristics to the demands of European drivers.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe commented: “The Nürburgring is a unique challenge for any vehicle, so it is the perfect location for our new facility.  The new European Test Centre is a natural extension of our Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, and enables Hyundai Motor to more quickly and more accurately test the reliability and drivability of our vehicles. The emotional appeal of being ‘tested at Nürburgring’ will also help to further build the brand’s reputation across Europe.”

The Nürburgring is widely recognised as one of the most challenging tracks in the world, with 73 corners – 33 left and 40 right –spread across 12.8 miles of tarmac. With a difference in height of almost 300 metres between the lowest and the highest points, it features uphill and downhill gradients of 11 and 17 per cent respectively.

Vauxhall’s Insignia Country Tourer is available to order now from £25,349 OTR

• Vauxhall’s Insignia Country Tourer is available to order now from £25,349 OTR
• £5,000 cheaper than the Audi A4 Allroad, £2,400 less than a VW Passat Alltrack
• Two trim levels with excellent standard spec: Country Tourer and Country Tourer Nav
• Two 2.0 CDTi powertrain options with either 163PS or 195PS BiTurbo

Vauxhall’s rugged SUV-inspired all-purpose Insignia Country Tourer is available to order now with prices starting from £25,349 on-the-road, up to £5,000 cheaper than its D-segment crossover rivals.

Known as the Insignia Country Tourer, and based on the Sports Tourer model, but with all-wheel drive, higher ground clearance and tougher styling, the new addition to Vauxhall’s highly-acclaimed Insignia range received a rapturous reception when it was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show last week.

Customers can choose between two trim levels, Country Tourer, priced from £25,349 to £29,709 on-the-road, and Country Tourer Nav, priced from £26,499 to £30,859 on-the-road.

Country Tourer trim features generous standard spec including bi-xenon adaptive front lighting, power tailgate and front and rear parking sensors. On top of this, Country Tourer Nav gets Navi 900 IntelliLink sat nav with 8-inch colour touch screen, multi-function touch-pad controller and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster as standard.

Each model has a choice of two powerful 2.0 CDTi engines, including a 163PS with start/stop and a hot 195PS BiTurbo unit. The 163PS engine is available with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, and the BiTurbo comes with the automatic gearbox only.

Crucially, entry-level Insignia Country Tourer Nav pricing undercuts that of key D-segment crossover rivals including the Audi A4 Allroad by over £5,000 and the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack by £2,400.

“With competitive pricing and generous standard equipment levels, the Insignia Country Tourer looks set to shake up the D-segment crossover sector,” said Stuart Harris, Vauxhall’s Head of Carline Brand.  “The Insignia Country Tourer is perfect for a winter holiday, on snowy roads, or simply when the going gets tough. Even on urban roads its robust looks give it strong stand-out appeal.”

First deliveries of the Insignia Country Tourer are due in dealers in January.

Charles Hurst, the only official Ferrari dealership in Ireland

Charles Hurst, the only official Ferrari dealership in Ireland, opened the doors of its completely new showroom in Belfast today, showcasing the Ferrari brand’s latest Corporate Identity which is being implemented across the dealer network worldwide.

The new design scheme reflects the essence of the brand, with performance and function the key elements, with cars displayed in the best way possible, with regards to lighting, viewing angles, space and environment. The customer lounge is a welcoming space where clients can feel at ease and can interact comfortably with dealer personnel as part of the sales and aftersales experiences, while the general environment reflects the brand characteristics: Italian, timeless, elegant, authentic materials, with light colours, shades of white and grey, and a mixture of direct, diffused and reflected light.

Matteo Torre, Regional Manager for Ferrari North Europe, commented: “Ferrari’s new brand identity is designed to provide a welcoming environment for customers, who can relax and enjoy the purchase and ownership experience. Ferrari is committed to providing the highest level of customer care and we are delighted to see the Charles Hurst showroom re-opening here in Belfast as I know we have many enthusiastic clients in the Emerald Isle whose experience with the brand will be enhanced by the new facilities we are opening here today.”

The dedicated “Atelier” is an intimate environment which stimulates creativity and imagination, with décor and a choice of materials which are designed to reflect the artisanship and craftsmanship of Ferrari. The Atelier includes a configurator on which clients can create and visualise their dream car, with a diverse range of exterior colours and interior materials, examples of which are displayed in the same way as at the Atelier in Maranello on which the dealer environment has been designed.

Richard Stinson, Franchise Director, commented: “Charles Hurst Ltd has represented the Ferrari brand in Belfast since 1995, and we are delighted to continue our special relationship with the Prancing Horse with this latest investment in our facilities. We look forward to welcoming our clients to our new showroom and are excited by the future with Ferrari.”

Lexus offers two Hybrids in the GS range

• Lexus extends the reach of its full hybrid technology with new GS 300h, the first time it has offered two different hybrid powertrains in a single body style
• New GS 300h SE promises best-in-class benefit-in-kind rates for company car drivers, potentially saving customers up to more than £2,000 on their annual tax bill
• 2.5-litre Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain delivers CO2 emissions from 109g/km* and combined cycle fuel consumption of up to 60.1mpg*
• Four equipment grades – SE, Luxury, F Sport and Premier – with on-the-road prices from £31,495
• Available to order now, first customer deliveries from January 2014

Lexus is strengthening the appeal of its GS range for company/business car users with the introduction of the new GS 300h. It will join the established GS 450h in the range early next year, promising class-leading benefit-in-kind tax rates of 13 per cent, thanks to segment leading CO2 emissions of 109g/km from its 2.5-litre full hybrid powertrain.

Compared to its key premium market diesel and hybrid competitors, the GS 300h SE delivers compelling annual tax figures that can save customers up to more than £2,000 a year.

Here’s how the figures stack up, with pricing including leather upholstery and satellite navigation options added to the GS 300h SE specification to bring it in line with the competition: -

The significant tax savings enjoyed by company car drivers apart, all GS 300h SE customers will also be saving money on fuel and road tax. Combined cycle consumption of 60.1mpg is expected for the SE model, with 57.6mpg for the Luxury and Premier versions and 56.5mpg for the F Sport. The SE’s 109g/km CO2 emissions place it in band B for annual Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax), while the Luxury and Premier at 113g/km and F Sport at 115g/km, all fall within band C (all figures provisional prior to official homologation).

Model range

The exterior and interior styling for the new GS 300h mirror those of the more powerful GS 450h. The grade structure adds a new entry level SE trim to the established Luxury, F Sport and Premier designations.

Full equipment specifications will be released later in the year, but the new GS 300h SE will come with a raft of luxury features, including 17-inch alloys, 10 airbags, electric steering wheel adjustment, 12-speaker sounds system with DAB radio and DVD player, cruise control, push button start, parking sensors HID (xenon) headlamps, and electrically adjustable, heated front seats. Leading options will be Lexus Premium Navigation, with a 12.3-inch display, and leather upholstery (including heating/ventilation front seat functions).

Extra items in the Luxury trim include leather upholstery, navigation, 18-inch alloys and a Blind Spot Monitor pack with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, while the F Sport adds features such as exterior and interior styling elements, perforated leather sports seats, 10-spoke 19-inch wheels and Adaptive Variable Sports Suspension.

At the top of the range, the GS 300h Premier takes in a Mark Levinson 17-speaker hifi, system, 18-way electric front seat adjustment with memory, a new colour head-up display, AVS and LED fog lamps.

At the same time as Lexus adds the GS 300h to the range it also makes a new design shift lever and the colour head-up display available for the GS 450h.

The GS range’s comprehensive array of active, passive and preventive safety features is being further extended, with addition of a Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which uses the same radar technology as the Blind Spot Monitor to alert the driver to vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out of a parking space

Mazda3 to offer fleet appeal with a range of new models

• Class-leading combination of performance and economy
• Outstanding CO2 emissions from 104g/km on the all-new Mazda3 deliver tax savings
• SKYACTIV technology gives Mazda three-model fleet appeal

The all-new Mazda3 is expected to transform the lower medium company car sector led by a class-leading combination of performance, excellent fuel economy and low emissions with the latter delivering tax savings to drivers and businesses.

The model, which will be available in hatchback and fastback (saloon) body styles, will be the third car in the Mazda range, following the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6, to feature the manufacturer’s breakthrough SKYACTIV technology.

A choice of three highly efficient SKYACTIV-G petrol engines and one SKYACTIV-D diesel engine available with outstanding CO2 emissions from 104g/km will be twinned with crisp, smooth six-speed automatic or manual transmissions offering fleet operators and company car drivers a wide model choice across SE, SE Nav, SE-L, SE-L Nav and Sport Nav trim levels.

Arrival of the 36-strong model range heralds the debut of two new SKYACTIV engines - the SKYACTIV-G 1.5-litre 100ps delivering up to 55.4mpg on the combined cycle and emissions from 119gkm and the 2.0-litre 120ps also offering up to 55.4mpg and emissions from 119g/km. The range also sees the introduction of powerplants already established in the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6 in the form of the SKYACTIV-G 2.0-litre 165ps with MPG up to 48.7mpg and emissions of 135g/km and the SKYACTIV-D 2.2 150ps, which meets Euro 6 emission standards and returns up to 72.4mpg with emissions from 104g/km.

On the road (OTR) prices start at £16,695 for the all-new Mazda3 hatchback 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G 100ps SE hatchback and extend to £23,345 for the all-new Mazda3 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D 150ps Sport Nav auto hatchback. The range goes on sale in January 2014.

Meanwhile, OTR prices for the all-new Mazda3 fastback featuring the emission-busting 2.2-litre SKYACTIV-D 150ps (104g/km) engine start at £19,245 for the SE derivative and extend to £22,145 for the Sport Nav variant. It means that company car driver benefit-in-kind tax bills for the car start at just £48 a month in 2014 for a basic rate taxpayer (£96 a month at the higher rate).

Mazda is gunning for the traditional C segment with the all-new model, but due to a combination of its dimensions - it is larger than the outgoing Mazda3 - coupled with styling, price and performance that deliver up to 20 percent lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the manufacturer believes it will secure a significant foothold in the premium C/D segment.

The all-new Mazda3 2.2-litre SKYACTIV diesel 150ps model, which is anticipated to be the best-seller in the corporate market, offers for example, significant CO2 and MPG advantages over rivals, while also delivering major benefit-in-kind tax savings to drivers and corporate tax and National Insurance savings to employers.

Mazda Head of Fleet Steve Tomlinson said: “A class-leading combination of performance, CO2 emissions and fuel economy, means that the all-new Mazda3 gives fleet managers and company car drivers a real alternative to the traditional in both the C and C/D segments.

“The introduction of SKYACTIV technology in both the Mazda CX-5 and new Mazda6 within the past 12 months has helped to increase Mazda’s penetration in the fleet sector and the arrival of the all-new Mazda3 with similar benefits will further enhance our fleet proposition.”

The £28,410 (OTR) BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics 4dr with CO2 emissions of 109g/km and fuel economy of 68.9mpg is generally regarded as setting the emissions and fuel economy benchmarks in the C/D sector.

Tomlinson continued: “The all-new Mazda3 fastback with CO2 emissions of 104g/km, fuel economy of 72.4mpg and priced from £19,245 establishes a new performance threshold. Additionally, with a benefit-in-kind tax rate of just 15 percent in 2014, the significantly lower list price means major savings for both businesses and company car drivers.”

Specification on the all-new Mazda3 will offer a remarkable combination of advanced information, entertainment and connectivity, with safety and convenience as the top priorities. Additionally, spaciousness over the outgoing model includes class-leading rear legroom combined with a larger boot - 364-litres with rear seats up (including under floor storage) – more than the current hatchback. Boot space in the fastback is 419-litres.

Tomlinson concluded: “The all-new SKYACTIV Mazda3 alongside the new Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5, both of which already benefit from SKYACTIV technology, gives Mazda a significant three-model presence in the fleet sector.

“Both new Mazda6 and Mazda CX-5 are delivering new corporate sales opportunities for Mazda as businesses look to reduce operating costs and tax bills. Additionally, the sporty design, quality interior and performance coupled with benefit-in-kind tax bill savings versus the opposition appeal strongly to company car drivers.

“The all-new Mazda3 has similar attributes and offers identical cash saving advantages, while also being a major step-forward for Mazda in terms of delivering opportunities in the most competitive sectors of the company car market.”