The Ford Ecosport gets more tweaks and upgrades to make it more worthy, still wouldn't have one.

• Significantly enhanced Ford EcoSport compact and fuel-efficient SUV is now available to order with prices from £14,245
• EcoSport is available for the first time without a rear-mounted spare wheel. Interior upgrades include partial leather seats, chrome detailing and 4-inch colour display
• Improved convenience and comfort with heated windscreen, mirrors and front seats; thicker sound deadening materials reduce interior noise
• Ride and handling enhanced with optimised suspension configuration; Electronic Stability Control and power steering systems further tuned
• More powerful 1.5-litre TDCi diesel delivers 64.2mpg and 115g/km CO₂; 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol returns 52.3mpg and 125g/km CO₂;* All engines meet Euro Stage VI emissions

The enhanced Ford EcoSport SUV, offering styling upgrades, improved driving dynamics and new equipment is available to order for October delivery.

Customers can now specify the EcoSport compact SUV without a rear-mounted spare wheel. Interior improvements include standard partial leather seats for Titanium models and additional chrome detailing.

Convenience and comfort are also enhanced with a Winter Pack – featuring heated windscreen, heated mirrors and heated front seats. EcoSport driving dynamics have been improved with revisions to the springs, dampers, rear torsion beam, Electronic Stability Programme, and Electronic Power Assisted Steering settings.

Prices for the enhanced EcoSport, available with Ford’s multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, 1.5-litre petrol engine or 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine, start from £14,245.

“The stylish and practical Ford EcoSport offers customers a flexible and economical SUV and with these enhancements EcoSport looks and feels even sharper,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe. “EcoSport was developed in some of the most rigorous terrains and climates across the globe to make it an even more compelling option for customers as part of our growing European SUV range. In addition, the team at Lommel Proving Ground in Belgium have further enhanced the driving dynamics to make the new EcoSport even more fun to drive on European roads.”

Ford EcoSport models specified without the rear-mounted spare wheel feature a tyre mobility kit as standard, while the rear swing-gate design for those vehicles also has been revised to allow easier access to the boot space with partial opening.  All models now feature a distinctive EcoSport badge on the rear.

Inside, partial leather seats are offered as standard on Titanium models, privacy glass is available for all EcoSport trim levels, while the Winter Pack also adds rear seat ventilation at floor level to improve comfort for rear passengers in cold weather.

The restyled interior has a charcoal black lower instrument panel, centre console and door boards. The instrument cluster now features a light dimming function and chrome-surround rings to match the electric window switches.

All EcoSport models are equipped with Ford’s SYNC voice-controlled connectivity system feature a 4-inch colour display in the centre console.

Refinement has been enhanced with thicker sound deadening materials in the doors and dashboard, as well as tighter seals around the pedals. Engine and gearbox matching has been revised to offer more low speed torque and better drivability.

Significant improvements to the EcoSport’s driving dynamics are delivered following development work at the Ford Lommel Proving Ground, where 50 miles of test tracks include replicas of European road surfaces.

A stiffer rear torsion beam offers greater control of body roll, and revised spring and shock absorber rates improve damping. A 10mm reduction in ride height lowers the EcoSport’s centre of gravity for improved handling, and Electronic Stability Control and power steering systems also have been specifically tuned for European roads.

The 1.5-litre TDCi also now offers 95PS, a 5PS improvement, and delivers 64.2mpg and 115g/km CO₂. The 125PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost delivers 52.3mpg and 125g/km CO₂, while the 1.5-litre Ti-VCT engine delivers 44.8mpg and 149g/km CO₂.* All engines now meet Euro Stage 6 emissions standards.

Further technology that will be available later this year for EcoSport for the first time includes satellite navigation and Rear View Camera that helps drivers manoeuvre the vehicle when in reverse.

The compact Ford EcoSport is part of Ford’s growing SUV line-up in Europe that also includes the mid-sized Kuga, and will be extended to include the Edge SUV early in 2016.

Brand new retro show to wow the crowds at Rockingham Motor Speedway in August - Don't miss it.

• Brand new show for Retro Cars, taking place on August 9, 2015
• Live demonstrations and chances to drive at Rockingham Motor Speedway
• Prizes for cars (and for best 80s throwbacks…)

A brand new interactive car show designed to celebrate all that’s great about retro and modified classics is set to take place next month. Retro Cars Live will be hosted at Rockingham Motor Speedway on the outskirts of Corby, Northants, on Sunday, August 9.

Unlike more traditional shows aimed at owners of older cars, Retro Cars Live is a dynamic show that allows visitors to try out their retro classics on the Rockingham circuit, alongside other interactive, live features.

Retro Cars’ John-Joe Vollans said: “Our aim is to bring together people who love old cars of all shapes, types and sizes in a festival-style environment. Retro Cars Live is something completely different to any other car show in the country – it’s entirely inclusive of all makes and models and anything goes, standard or modified. We’re there to have fun with cars, and that’s exactly the experience we want for our guests.”

Thousands of cars will be on display, both as individual exhibits and club displays from some of the world’s best-supported marques, including Ford, Vauxhall, VW, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.

The Rockingham circuit will be in use throughout the day, with a number of attractions including drifting displays from the Retro Drift Challenge for pre-1989 cars, NASCAR displays, a 0-60 Sprint and a round of the UK Classic VW Challenge racing series.

Other event highlights will include a special exhibition of Retro Cars Legends – a show-stopping display of classic cars arranged by era –along with the Retro Cars Magazine car paddock, where the star feature cars from the magazine will have a display area all of their own.

Low riders will also have their own display area, where they can strut their funky stuff in the infield, while a competitive element will be introduced courtesy of the ‘Rate my Ride’ competition, with prizes on offer in a number of different categories. Additional prizes will be fought for between event visitors who turn up in the best fancy dress – with a distinct 80s throwback theme for the inaugural event.

The ‘Village Green’ will form the heart of the show, with an interactive stage area featuring interviews and live music all day long, plus kids’ entertainment, drinks and refreshments.

Fans of kit cars will be able to find everything from the conventional to the wild and whacky in the Total Kit Car paddock, while there will also be a retail area and a cars for sale section, should you wish to take home a souvenir (or maybe something a little bigger…)

Those wishing to fully soak up the atmosphere promised by the UK’s only live, interactive celebration of all types and styles of Retro Car will be able to camp overnight on the Saturday within the Rockingham complex.

New Mitsubishi ASX launched to build on the huge success of the previous generation.

Exterior design changes see two-tone 18” alloy wheels and more dynamic looking wheel arches added to the mid and high specification ASX models which give the exterior a fresh new look. Widespread updates to the interior, including a new ergonomically enhanced three-spoke steering wheel, improve refinement across the range.

The Mitsubishi ASX is now available with a new Euro 6 compliant 1.6 turbo diesel engine. This frugal yet punchy unit produces 112bhp and just 119g/km CO_2, meaning zero VED in the first year of ownership.

The new range has also undergone a name change, with the new line-up consisting of the entry level ASX ZC, the mid-level ASX ZC-M, and the range topping ASX ZC-H.

With over 700,000 units sold around the world since its launch, the ASX is a global success.

Mitsubishi’s clever and capable crossover has always stood out from the crowd – and with the revised model just arriving in dealerships, it will soon be attracting more attention than ever. The crossover marketplace has grown rapidly in recent years and Mitsubishi Motors has been a key player in this important segment. The ASX is a stylish, well-priced, practical contender that has won many admirers and delivers genuine driving pleasure.

Under the Bonnet

The ASX has the choice of three Euro 6 compliant engines: A 1.6 petrol with 115bhp. The new 1.6 Di-D turbo-diesel with 112bhp which produces just 119g/km CO₂, and the existing 2.2 DOHC 16V engine found in Outlander. 

Stylish and Practical

Based on the same platform as the Outlander, Lancer and Lancer Evolution X, the ASX bridges the gap between Mitsubishi’s conventional passenger cars and its rugged off-roaders. Practicality and versatility are key to the appeal of the ASX. With a wheelbase to match the Outlander, passenger space is generous, with the flexible seating inside making the ASX just the right size for customers looking for a practical, enjoyable family car. 

Green Thinking and Economical

Helping the ASX achieve its impressive economy and emissions figures are low rolling resistance tyres and intelligent power management, to allow the ASX to return its impressive consumption figures. Indeed, every aspect of the ASX has been engineered with its environmental performance in mind, to help create not just an enjoyable, versatile family vehicle, but a responsible one too. 

Something for Everyone

The ASX has a choice of petrol or diesel two-wheel-drive versions. For those requiring the security of four-wheel-drive, ASX also offers off-road capability based on the proven capabilities of the bigger Outlander off-roader.

All models include a spacious, family-friendly interior and offer a comfortable, refined ride.

Like other models in the Mitsubishi range, ASX is temptingly priced but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking key standard equipment. All models have alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric windows and keyless entry. Other desirable features such as Bluetooth, leather upholstery, satellite navigation, seat heaters and a reversing camera are available. 

Be Safe, Not Sorry

The ASX isn’t just environmentally aware, it’s a safe choice too. The ASX incorporates Mitsubishi’s RISE safety technology which dissipates energy from an impact away from the passenger compartment. The ASX also has ABS anti-lock braking, Active Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist and Emergency Stop Signal System, Hill Start Assist, ISOFIX child seat anchorage and seven airbags as standard. The result is a reduced likelihood of an accident, but should a collision be unavoidable, the ASX not only provides outstanding levels of occupant protection – with a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating – but also excellent impact protection.

The Range

ASX ZC: The Mitsubishi ASX ZC is the entry-level ASX but even this model comes fully-loaded with equipment – such as alloy wheels; air conditioning; Active Stability and Traction Control; remote keyless entry and seven airbags. In addition, there is a new leather and gloss black steering wheel with thumb grips and audio controls; leather gear knob; plus front fog lights with bulb-type daytime running lights and chrome bezels. Also included are the following great features: a USB port; chrome grille and beltline moulding; privacy glass; chrome exhaust finisher; a cup holder in the rear arm rest and a high-contrast LCD display.

ASX ZC-M: The Mitsubishi ASX ZC-M moves the game on. It adds two-tone 18-inch alloys plus black wheel-arch garnishes; climate control; push-start button; parking sensors; privacy glass; front fog lamps; cruise control and six speakers. KOS (Keyless Operation System) is a primary feature and the car also benefits from auto light and rain sensors. There are Xenon super-wide HID headlamps with auto levelling and headlamp washers along with LED DRLs. Heated front seats and a leather steering wheel add touches of luxury. Leather upholstery is an option too – and let’s not forget the DAB radio and auto-dimming rear view mirror.

ASX ZC-H: This is the most accomplished ASX of the lot. On top of an already strong list of standard equipment, the ASX ZC-H adds leather upholstery, 4WD and optional automatic transmission. This range topping model also includes a panoramic glass roof which, with its LED mood lighting, sets the tone for endless evening drive possibilities. This car features a factory-fitted Mitsubishi Multi Communication System (MMCS). This has the following features: a seven-inch HD touch-screen display; satellite navigation; DAB and FM/AM/LW radio; CD player; SD card compatibility and reversing camera. And it’s worth noting that ASX ZC-H 2.2 4WD Auto has best-in-class CO2 emissions and fuel economy.  

Powertrains

The new ASX range has a choice of transmissions. Mated to the 1.5 petrol engine is a 5-speed manual gearbox, whilst the 1.6 diesel engine has a six-speed manual box on both its 2WD and 4WD models. A six-speed auto is the exclusive choice for the 2.2 diesel, a package that comes complete with steering column mounted paddle shifters. 

Colour Range

Keenly anticipated by Mitsubishi’s dealer network in the UK, the new ASX range will be available in the following colours:

• Cool Silver (Metallic)
• Orient Red (Metallic)
• Amethyst Black (Metallic)
• Frost White (Solid)
• Granite Brown (Metallic)
• Atlantic Grey (Metallic)
• White Pearl (Pearlescent) 

Aftercare

The ASX comes with five year warranty, 12 year anti-corrosion perforation warranty, three year pan-European roadside, home and accident assistance. Servicing on the ASX range is 12,500 miles or 12 months, whichever occurs first. The Mitsubishi Service Plan (MSP) is also available for the additional cost of £450 on the 1.6 petrol and 1.6 diesel variants and £675 on the 2.2 diesel variant. 

Insurance and Residual Value

The re-aligned ASX range has achieved a competitive insurance group rating of between 15E to 23E depending on the variant. Residual values range from 40% to 46.5% of list price at 3 years/30,000 miles

Range Pricing

Mitsubishi Motors UK offers very competitive pricing across the line-up:

ASX ZC 1.6 Petrol	Manual	£15,249
ASX ZC-M 1.6 Petrol	Manual	£17,499
ASX ZC-M 1.6 Diesel	Manual	£19,499
ASX ZC-H 1.6 Diesel 4WD	Manual	£23,499
ASX ZC-H 2.2 Diesel 4WD	Automatic	£24,899

PSA group sees growth on all three brands with new metal and tech to continue the growth.

• Worldwide sales up 0.4% to 1,547,000 units^[1]
• Sales advance in Europe, China, India-Pacific and Middle East & Africa – now the Group's third largest growth market
• Assertive brand positioning:
  • Worldwide success for the Peugeot 308, the brand's bestselling model
  • Citroën C4 Cactus gets seal of approval with 90,000 units sold since its launch a year ago and 35 awards across the world
  • Premium brand DS continues its development with the launch of the new DS 5
• The Group consolidates its position as European leader in CO₂ emission reduction with average CO₂emissions of 106.9g/km in the first five months of 2015, thanks in particular to the popularity and performance of its three-cylinder petrol range

Consolidated sales in Europe rose 2.9% year on year to 984,000

Peugeot sales were up 6.7% as a result of the excellent performance delivered by the Peugeot 308, the third bestselling model in the C segment (sedans and estates) in Europe and the segment leader in France. In the B-SUV segment, the Peugeot 2008 held onto its no. 2 ranking in Europe with 57% of sales generated on the two highest trim levels.

Citroën registrations climbed 2.8% in the first half, reflecting the brand repositioning which began a year ago, its well-rounded sales policy and the success of its latest passenger car models. The Citroën C4 Cactus generated sales of more than 43,000 units over the period and was well received by international critics, garnering awards such as "World Car Design of the Year" in New York in April. Sales of the new Citroën C1 came in at 32,000 units, a staggering 54% higher than the previous version.

DS sales jumped 14.8% between the first and second quarters to reach 40,700 units, driven by the launch of the new DS 5. The brand pursued its long-term premium positioning strategy during the period, launching "1955" limited edition models across the range to mark the 60th anniversary of the very first DS.

First-half 2015 also saw the opening of several new DS Stores, most recently in Paris, Geneva, Luxembourg and Milan, taking the DS network's total to 9 DS STORE and 65 DS SALON.

In China and Southeast Asia, PSA Peugeot Citroën sales totalled 368,000 vehicles, a 2.2% improvement on first-half 2014.

For the second year running, Peugeot was one of the fastest growing international brands on the market with sales up 11.1% year on year in China: SUV 2008 and 3008 sales surged 34%; the new 408 sedan got off to an excellent start, selling 68% more units than the old model; while the launch of the 308 S in April also contributed positively.

In China, Citroën sales retreated 6.7% compared with first-half 2014, mainly as a result of the discontinuation of low-margin models, including the old C-Elysée, and a lull in the market for notchback sedans, which accounted for all of the brand's sales until the successful launch of the C3-XR SUV in December 2014 (nearly 30,000 units sold). The Citroën C-Elysée remains the brand's bestseller with more than 46,000 units sold over the period. 

DS sales rose 4% in China in the first half of 2015 thanks in particular to the success of the DS 6. The brand also continued to develop its distribution network and now has 84 DS Stores covering 60 major cities. China currently represents 20% of the brand's worldwide sales.

Middle East & Africa: a profitable international lever of the Back in the Race plan

In the first half of the year, the Group consolidated the strong positions it holds in a number of countries in its historical Middle East & Africa markets: leading the market in Tunisia and ranking second in Morocco and third in Algeria.

Peugeot sold 61,700 units in the first half, advancing 11% compared with the same period in 2014. The brand's performance was buoyed by the recovery in the Turkish market, where it gained 0.6 market share points. In Algeria, Peugeot also improved its market share, from 10.8% to 13%, and consolidated its position as the country's no.3 player.

Citroën sales shot up by 53% to 38,300 units on the back of market share gains in two of the region's major markets, Turkey and Algeria (1 point and 0.5 points respectively), thanks in particular to strong demand for the Citroën C-Elysée, the brand's bestselling model in both countries.

Markets remained slow in Latin America and Eurasia where Peugeot and Citroën focused on improving their margins by placing an emphasis on their most profitable vehicles and those manufactured locally. In Mexico, Peugeot sales jumped 19.6% owing to the success of the Peugeot 301 and the Peugeot Partner as well as the recent launch of the new Peugeot 308.

In the India-Pacific region, Peugeot sales rose sharply, particularly in South Korea (up 132%), driven by sales of the Peugeot 2008. Citroën also enjoyed robust growth, particularly in Japan, with deliveries up 67% thanks to the strong performance of the Grand C4 Picasso.

Commenting on the sales results for the first half of 2015:

Maxime Picat, Chief Executive Officer, Peugeot brand said: "With worldwide sales up 3.9%, led by the resounding success of the 308 and our best-in-class technology, the Peugeot brand has confirmed its pulling power and sent a message of confidence about the future."

Linda Jackson, Chief Executive Officer, Citroën brand said: "Boosted by the success of its recent launches, Citroën continued to make headway in the first half of the year with higher volumes in Europe. In China, the Citroën C3-XR SUV made an excellent market debut following its launch at the end of December. We are pursuing the worldwide repositioning we began just one year ago, as demonstrated by the Citroën Aircross concept unveiled in April. The concept reflects our ability to flout convention in all segments."

Yves Bonnefont, Chief Executive Officer, DS brand said: "We are continuing to roll out the DS brand globally, with the new DS 5, new engines for the DS 4 and DS 3, and new connected services for the entire range. These new products and services strengthen our offering and reaffirm our brand's positioning at the crossroads of technology and refinement. We also opened several DS Stores during the first half of the year in such major cities as Geneva, Milan and Paris."