Nissan posts impressive January results, with two cars in the top ten

• Qashqai UK’s fifth most popular car in January
• Juke enters top 10 for first time
• Models build on Nissan’s best ever year

Nissan is building on its record-breaking 2012 with an impressive start to 2013. The British-built Qashqai and Juke are now more popular than ever, giving Nissan two spots in the top 10 sellers list.

Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show the ground-breaking Qashqai crossover was the UK’s fifth bestselling car in January 2013 – its highest chart position to date.

Meanwhile, the striking Juke underlined its growing popularity with buyers by breaking into the top 10 for the first time.

The figures come just weeks after official SMMT statistics showed the carmaker’s overall sales rocketed by 9.9% in 2012, helping it to a record 5.2% share of the UK’s new car market.

Jim Wright, Managing Director of Nissan GB, said: “Our innovative and exciting products continue to connect with British motorists and we are making the kinds of vehicles they really want to drive.

“The Qashqai has been a remarkable vehicle for us and continues to defy industry convention by becoming more popular with each passing year.

“Juke has also been a phenomenally successful model and appears to be following the trend set by its big brother. If anything, Juke is performing even more impressively than Qashqai was at the same period in its life. The next year will see the arrival of more innovative and exciting product from Nissan, so I’m certain more records will fall.”

Aston martin enters full FIA World Endurance Championship

• Four Vantage GTEs will be entered into the full FIA World Endurance Championship
• Aston Martin Racing retains Darren Turner and Stefan Mücke for 2013 
• Frédéric Makowiecki and Bruno Senna signed to drive a second GTE Pro car
• Major upgrades to the Vantage GTE
• The team aims for win at Le Mans and in the WEC

Aston Martin Racing has unveiled its most ambitious motorsport programme to date as it aims to win both the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), as the marque celebrates its centenary year.

Underlining the success of its return to GT racing in 2012 and its commitment to the WEC, the team has confirmed a four-car entry into the series; two Vantage GTEs in both the Pro and Am classes.

Entry into the series means that each of the four V8-powered Vantage GTEs will compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the third round of the WEC on 22nd-23rd June, making this the largest factory team entry into the event by Aston Martin in the history of the marque. Two potential further entries for Le Mans and selected WEC rounds are on the reserve list.

The GTE Pro entries, #97 and #99, will be the heavily-revised 2013 Vantage GTE. Dan Sayers, chief engineer at Aston Martin Racing explains: “When redeveloping the race-winning 2012 Vantage GTE for the 2013 season, the design team focussed on increasing the drivability of the car and optimising the performance.”

The new Gulf-liveried #97 machine will once again be piloted by Darren Turner (GB), who celebrates his 9th season driving for the team. Stefan Mücke (D), who joined the team in 2008, will partner Turner once again. Together, Turner and Mücke will contest every round of the WEC with the aim of winning the GTE Pro championship. For the 24 Hours of Le Mans and for the second round of the WEC, the Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, Peter Dumbreck (GB), who returns to GT racing after competing in the 2012 WEC in the LMP1 category, will join the team.

The second GTE Pro car, the #99 Vantage GTE, will bring some new faces to Aston Martin Racing; Formula One driver Bruno Senna (BR) and Frenchman Frédéric Makowiecki will drive at each round of the WEC and will be joined by Rob Bell (GB) for the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Six Hours of Spa-Francorchamps.

The #95 car is a brand new Vantage GTE, which, in accordance with the WEC GTE Am class regulations, is built to 2012 specification. The car – which proved its competitiveness by winning the 2012 Six Hours of Shanghai in the hands of the factory team – will be driven by three Danes; Allan Simonsen, Christoffer Nygard and Kristian Poulsen. The trio are no strangers to Aston Martin Racing following their GTE Am entry at Le Mans last year.

The final car in the four-strong line up – the #96, which is a new car identical to the #95 car – will run in the GTE Am category and will see Roald Goethe (D) and Stuart Hall (GB) team up once again. The pair, who proved to be a formidable force for Aston Martin Racing last year at the Six Hours of Silverstone, will be joined by FIA GT Championship-winning driver Jamie Campbell-Walter (GB).

In addition to the WEC programme, Turner, Mücke and Senna will contest the first round of the American Le Mans Series, the 12 Hours of Sebring, on 16th March in the 2013 Vantage GTE.

David Richards, Chairman of Aston Martin, comments: “There is a real sense of anticipation in the Aston Martin Racing team this year and a belief that it is once again our time to return to the top step of the podium at Le Mans. It would be a fitting way for Aston Martin, which has such a rich heritage in motorsport and particularly at Le Mans, to cap its centenary year.”

John Gaw, managing director and team principal at Aston Martin Racing adds: “Last year we proved how fast and reliable the car was, and our two GTE Am entries will pick up where the Pro car finished with victory in Shanghai last year.

“Overall, around 30 per cent of all components on the 2013-specification Pro cars are new, which makes for a significant improvement. We looked at specific areas where we could take weight out of the car and redistribute it to a better location. We have also revised the suspension, which has not only improved the handling but, when combined with the new fly-by wire throttle allowed under this year’s regulations, makes the car easier to drive.

“Our aim is to win at Le Mans and in the WEC and we are particularly pleased to welcome such a professional driver line-up to Aston Martin Racing for this centenary year.”

The V8-powered Vantage GTE is based upon Aston Martin’s sportiest road-going model, the Vantage coupé. It shares that car’s bonded aluminium structure and fundamental engine and suspension designs, emphasising the base car’s inherent sporting nature.

Aston Martin Racing’s season gets underway at the 12 Hours of Sebring, Florida, on March 16th, while the 2013 WEC begins on Sunday 14th April at the team’s home round of the series, the Six Hours of Silverstone. Follow the team’s progress throughout the year on Twitter using the handle @amr_official, on Facebook at www.fb.com/astonmartinracing and on the website at www.astonmartin.com/racing.

THE MCLAREN P1™ IS CONFIRMED AS 'RACE' READY FOR THE 83RD INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW IN GENEVA

• Production-ready McLaren P1™confirmed for 83rd International Motor Show in Geneva
• Short video showing race-inspired digital dash readout highlights driver-focused ‘Race’ mode –http://youtu.be/dVtCuyFSO6E
• McLaren Automotive press conference – 11.15 CET (10.15 GMT), Tuesday 5 March

With one month until all eyes in the automotive world turn to Switzerland, McLaren Automotive has confirmed that the global debut of the production-ready McLaren P1™ will be at the 83rd International Motor Show in Geneva, and taken the opportunity to give a glimpse of the, so far unseen, interior. The latest insight confirms that the McLaren P1™ will adopt a race-inspired digital dash readout, and gives further information relating to the levels of performance that can be expected with a highly-focused ‘Race’ mode.

The visuals demonstrate what the driver will see as the McLaren P1™ transitions into a fully-focussed track car. On selecting Race mode, the large double element adjustable ‘active’ rear wing extends, and the pitch of the wing alters into an optimal aerodynamic position. In Race mode the screen includes a bank of lights across the top, which illuminate green, followed by red and finally blue. These act as a shift indicator, as in a Formula 1 car.

More exact details about the McLaren P1™, and Race mode, will be unveiled as we get closer to Geneva.

Geneva press day information:

The final, production-ready McLaren P1™ will make its global debut at the 83rd International Motor Show in Geneva, and the McLaren Automotive press conference will take place at 11.15am CET (10.15am GMT), Tuesday 5 March.

Vauxhall/Opel's ADAM gets beefy for Geneva

• Vauxhall’s  ROCKS concept raises ADAM to the next level of individualisation
• Industry first urban mini-crossover has fierce design and muscular proportions
• Open air freedom thanks to fabric cabrio roof
• World Première at Geneva Motor Show next month

Vauxhall is set to wow Geneva show-goers next month with its ADAM ROCKS concept, an urban mini-crossover that could open a new segment in the industry.

Compared with the production ADAM, ROCKS is taller, wider, tougher yet more compact in appearance, while offering a cabrio roof. It showcases how ADAM’s unique personalisation – the current production model has over a million different specification and trim combinations – could be taken one step further.

“With even bolder design than any other ADAM, the ROCKS shows the vast potential for personalisation our stylish urban-chic newcomer offers. It combines the toughness of a crossover with the coolness of open air driving,” said Malcolm Ward, Vauxhall/Opel Lead Design Director. “As a symbol for fashion-led, active drivers wanting to stand out from the crowd, ADAM ROCKS is just one possible answer to the question of how new development paths for this unique car could be forged.”

ADAM ROCKS’ new crossover body style is supported by a chassis that is raised 15mm with a 20mm wider stance. Agile parkour athletes, who move from one place to another, negotiating urban obstacles in between, were the inspiration for this sporty crossover concept.

two concepts for Honda at Geneva

Two new Honda Concept models will be making their European debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show showcasing an exciting future of new models and technology for the brand. The Civic Wagon concept will be lining up alongside the next generation NSX Concept and the CR-V featuring the new 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine to give a taste of what’s to come from Honda over the next couple of years.

Civic Wagon concept model
Honda will be taking the wraps off the Civic Wagon concept model which strongly hints at the design direction of the final production version.This new derivative will strengthen the Civic range and will be built at Honda’s manufacturing facility in Swindon. 

Evolution of Honda NSX Concept 
Also making its European debut is the new Honda NSX Concept which suggests a potential direction for the next-generation NSX’s interior design. 

The exterior design stays true to the original concept styling, maintaining its low and wide stance with the dynamic and alluring proportions that are highlighted by clean, modern and simple surfacing.

CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC 
The CR-V is the next model in Honda’s European line up to benefit from the new Earth Dreams Technology engine series as it joins the Civic in offering the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine. The CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC will be available in two-wheel drive only, with manual transmission to provide an exceptional balance of performance and economy.

The 1.6 i-DTEC diesel engine is the lightest engine in its class and will help the CR-V to deliver energetic performance, agile handling and low running costs for customers. The CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC will also be built at Honda’s manufacturing facility in Swindon and will be available from Autumn 2013.

It's that time of the month again - JANUARY 2013

JAGUAR

JANUARY 2012 915 sales - JANUARY 2013 1207 sales +31.91%
YTD 2012 915 sales - YTD 2013 1207 sales +31.91%

LAND ROVER

JANUARY 2012 3492 sales - JANUARY 2013 4665 sales +33.59%
YTD 2012 3492 sales - YTD 2013 4665 sales +33.59%

JAGUAR COMPETITORS

BMW

JANUARY 2012 6249 sales - JANUARY 2013 6279 sales +0.48%
YTD 2012 6249 sales - YTD 2013 6279 sales +0.48%

MERCEDES

JANUARY 2012 6273 sales - JANUARY 2013 6750 sales +7.60%
YTD 2012 6273 sales - YTD 2013 6750 sales +7.60%

LEXUS

JANUARY 2012 741 sales - JANUARY 2013 537 sales -27.53%
YTD 2012 741 sales - YTD 2013 537 sales -27.53%

AUDI

JANUARY 2012 8563 sales - JANUARY 2013 9848 sales +15.01%
YTD 2012 8563 sales - YTD 2013 9848 sales +15.01%

RISERS ON PREVIOUS YEAR (YOY CUMULATIVE)

ABARTH +69.39%

ASTON MARTIN +58.73%
CHRYSLER +45.92%
CITROEN +17.77%
DACIA +0.00%

FIAT +16.11%
HONDA +14.16%
HYUNDAI +19.60%
KIA +4.46%
MAZDA +20.18%
MINI +4.08% 
NISSAN +50.79%
PEUGEOT +5.93%
PORSCHE +8.56%
SEAT +10.99%
SKODA +8.55%  
SUZUKI +43.04%
TOYOTA +6.18%
VAUXHALL +50.73%
VOLVO +0.29%
LOSES THIS YEAR (YOY CUMULATIVE)

ALFA ROMEO -38.29%
BENTLEY -25.238%

CHEVROLET -66.18%

FORD -2.10%

INFINITI -51.52%

JEEP -22.78%

LOTUS -82.61% 
MASERATI -30.56%
MG -71.03%
MITSUBISHI -13.87%
PERODUA -34.29%
PROTON -91.30%
RENAULT -15.42%
SAAB -75.00%
SMART -21.30%

SSANGYONG -34.88%

SUBARU -53.13%
VOLKSWAGEN -0.25%

When 2012 finished higher than 2011 it was as much as a surprise to me as anyone, considering the economic climate, who thought that people would have the money to buy cars, when people didn't have the money to heat their homes or feed their families, I know that sounds harsh but in certain areas of the UK this is the case, but sales for the first month are over 11% higher than the same time last year.

Jaguar and Land Rover performed exceptionally well, both with increases in excess of 30%, Dacia joined the crowd with an initial 256 sales, more than Subaru, Ssangyong, MG, Perodua, Proton, Saab Maserati and Lotus all added together, so good on them for that, and with over 2000 advance orders it looks like Dacia are here to stay, Vauxhall had a great month, 50% up on 2012, the Mokka pre registrations for dealers will have something to do with it, but aggressive discounting along with the lifetime warranty have kept sales going.

MG starts the year off on a large downward spiral, one that will continue until the end of the year, 500 cars to Avis over December 2011/January 2012 mean that there will be 500 registrations less, but with STILL only one car for sale, which is truly pathetic considering the size of it's parent company, constant delays and only one uneconomical Petrol and one poor diesel it;s no wonder sales are this dire.

Nissan had the Juke and the Qashqai in the top ten best sellers for the month, but as per usual, teh two boring twins Fiesta and Focus take the top two places, Alternative Fuel vehicles took over 2,200 sales or 1.6% of the market and Diesel sales yet again were dominant with nearly 51% of total sales.

Mega rare Alvis up for sale at Silverstone

A 1967 Alvis Burns Special – the only one of its kind in the world – will be offered for sale by Silverstone Auctions at the Race Retro and Classic Car Sale on 23rd February.

Estimated at between £60,000 to £70,000, this unique model will line-up alongside an extensive collection of stunning road-going classics, race and competition cars. There is also a variety of automobilia for auction over the Race Retro weekend at Stoneleigh Park.

“The history behind this unique Alvis Burns Special is truly fascinating,” comments Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions. “Aside from being one of the rarest cars in the world, it is presented in an absolutely superb condition, as backed up with recent concours wins, adding to its desirability further.”

The 5.4 litre example was created by businessman James Burns with the aim of filling a niche he spotted in the export market. Work began in the autumn of 1966 with a new chassis and bodyshell among the main alterations to the standard 3-litre model.

However, a period of ‘motor mergers’ between car manufacturers in the Midlands around the time ultimately spelt disaster for the project and production never started. The result is a car that really is the only one in the world.

Befitting its stature, it has been well looked after since its creation. Recent works include various mechanical repairs including a cylinder head rebuild, a re-trim to original specification and refurbishment of the internal woodwork. As well as being a concours winner it was also recently displayed on the Alvis Club Owners Stand at the NEC Classic Motor Show last November.

“Classic cars don’t come much rarer than this so it’s a privilege for Silverstone Auctions to offer it for sale at the Race Retro and Classic Car Sale,” added Nick.

Aston Martin ONE-77 -- Techie stuff

The ceramic based material that originally allowed F1 teams to exploit the ‘blown diffuser’ aerodynamic advantage has made its road car debut on Aston Martin’s One-77. Developed by Oxfordshire-based Zircotec, the ThermoHold® for composites material is applied to both the car’s diffuser and underbonnet air intakes, enabling Aston Martin’s designers to specify lightweight and aesthetic materials for high temperature environments.

“Composites are often unsuited to high temperature environments,” says Zircotec’s managing director Terry Graham. “Traditionally this leads to vehicle makers opting for more conservative materials that add weight or they rely on bulky heatshields that ultimately blunt performance. Our discreet ceramic coating protects the One-77 composites components and in the case of the diffuser, enables exhaust gases to pass through, just as they did in F1.”

Zircotec’s coating, proven in F1 and at Le Mans, can lower composite surface temperatures by more than 125˚C, creating opportunities to use composites under the bonnet. “Our coating not only protects the composite induction system from heat but also ensures that the air intake temperature is lower. Moreover, a decrease in this temperature creates a denser charge and is a feature relied upon by many Le Mans racing teams we supply,” adds Graham.

Zircotec’s proprietary process uses a gas plasma flame running at 12,000°C to apply the unique ThermoHold® heat resistant formulation in molten powder form on to the composite components. Unlike paint, Zircotec’s plasma spray application process ensures better adhesion.

As the automotive industry seeks to adopt more composites to achieve higher efficiency, the coating technology pioneered on the Aston Martin One-77 is likely to be adopted by other OEMs.  “Engine downsizing is leading to hotter engines with tighter packaging,” suggests Graham. “We are seeing future specifications suggesting underbonnet temperature increases to close to 200˚C. Our coating is a true enabling technology and will enable composites to be considered in this area of the car.”

Citroen DS3 has its roof removed.

• Citroën launches DS3 Cabrio, a new soft-top version of the highly successful DS3
• Available now for pre-orders, with first deliveries from the official ‘on sale’ date of 1 March
• Three versions introduced, priced from £15,045 to £19,675 MRRP OTR
• Seven body colours, three roof designs & nine wheel styles to choose from
• The only five-seater in the segment
• Biggest boot in the class (245-litres), with innovative tailgate opening mechanism
• Electric soft-top operates at up to 75mph & closes in just 16 seconds
• All the style of DS3 hatchback, combined with the open-top fun of a convertible

Citroën DS3 Cabrio is the latest advance in the distinctively styled DS line. A cabrio version of the multi-award winning DS3, this exciting new model features intelligent design and dazzling looks to make top-down driving considerably easier and even more enjoyable.

Launched almost three years ago, DS3 has proved an outstanding success for Citroën with over 200,000 sold worldwide, including more than 36,000 registered in the UK alone. Boasting enhanced personalisation possibilities with a range of roof designs, a series of special editions, a Racing version and Ultra Prestige models, DS3 has played a major role in boosting awareness of the expanding DS line. Overall, sales of DS3, DS4 and DS5 have already topped the 300,000 mark globally in just 30 months.

DS3 Cabrio boasts all the hallmarks that have made the hatchback so successful - bold styling, sophisticated refinement, extensive personalisation and a thoroughly enjoyable driving experience - combined with the pleasure of al-fresco motoring.

DS3 Cabrio leads the way for occupant space as the only five-seater in its class and features the biggest boot in the segment at 245-litres VDA. The electrically operated folding roof can be fully opened or closed at speeds of up to 75mph - which is also unique in this segment - and takes just 16 seconds to fully close. Top down driving has never been so easy.

NEW TOYOTA GT86 RACER READY FOR TESTING

The first GT4 racing version of the Toyota GT86 will hit the track later this month following completion of the first chassis by Buckingham-based motorsport engineering pioneer GPRM.

The new car is powered by a 2.0-litre direct injection turbocharged four-cylinder ‘Boxer’ engine which has been developed in conjunction with Nicholson McLaren Engines. The GT86 will be shaken down at a UK circuit ahead of a schedule of European tests and the pre-season ‘balance of performance’ sessions organised by GT4 series organiser SRO.

GPRM and its directors Gary Blackham and Roger King believe the new Toyota will be a serious GT4 contender: “The new engine from Nicholson McLaren will be capable of between 360 and 400 bhp,” said Blackham, “although of course the definitive output figure will be determined by the balance of performance testing.

“We have gone all out to engineer quality and reliability into the GT86 as well as competitiveness, and the result has provoked a lot of interest from all around Europe.” GPRM has already taken one GT86 order and is in advanced talks with a team keen to race one in the Avon

Tyres British GT Championship. “The Toyota GT86 will make an ideal GT4 contender in British GT, as well as in the many GT4 series growing in strength and popularity around Europe.”

GPRM’s Toyota GT86 is a cost-efficient entry-level endurance car. The company embarked on the GT4 project immediately after the Britcar24 last September, where the new Toyota sports car made a successful UK race debut. Although not a works effort, the GT4 project has the blessing of Toyota GB, which is providing technical support.

Trailblazing online service booking facility offers peace-of-mind and convenience for Audi customers

• Another first for Audi – the majority of Audi Centres now offer online service booking in real-time
• Book a range of services online for your Audi in minutes
• Service includes the option to book major or minor services, complimentary healthchecks, MOTs, tyre replacements, collection and delivery times and more
• Real-time Audi Centre calendar synchronisation is a UK first in the motor industry

Audi has taken another pioneering step towards its goal of delivering unparalleled customer service by launching the first online booking facility capable of managing servicing and MOT requests in real-time and confirming appointments almost immediately.

From now on, customers using the majority of the UK’s Audi Centres can forget about opening hours, busy service departments and congested phone lines when they want a service or MOT appointment, or even just a replacement tyre. Instead, they can visit the 'Owners Area' at www.audi.co.uk throughout the day or night, seven days a week, and arrange everything they need from their local Audi Centre in just a few clicks.

The clear and easily navigable online system facilitates booking of a range of appointments, including major and minor services, complimentary healthchecks, MOTs, tyre replacements, general investigations and diagnostics. It also offers various mobility preferences for convenience, including courtesy car booking, collection and delivery, courtesy lift arrangements, while-you-wait services and the option to select the Audi Cam video-based diagnosis service.

A simple process secures a booking for any one of these options.  Customers first choose their preferred Audi Centre, and can find the nearest one to their location by entering a town or postcode. They are then asked to select the service they require. Available times and dates are then offered, and can be selected along with additional services such as a courtesy car or courtesy lift. Once a selection is made, the chosen date and time is immediately blocked out by the system for the customer and a confirmation is displayed including a booking reference number and an estimated total cost for the work booked. Finally, this price is confirmed by the Centre by either email or text.

This sophisticated new system debuts only a few months after Audi Cam revolutionised workshop servicing by enabling Audi Centre technicians equipped with video cameras to film diagnoses and beam the resulting clips, along with an estimated price for the necessary job highlighted, to owners' computers and smartphones before work begins.

John Bower, Head of Service and Parts Operations at Audi UK, welcomed the new initiative: “The convenience factor is crucial to the continued success of our Audi Centres, so I’m delighted that this new booking facility is going to genuinely save our customers time and effort. At the same time it’s also going to enable us to confirm arrangements and convey pricing estimates virtually instantly, and with greater clarity – I’m confident that use of this simple but highly effective tool will soon become second nature to many Audi owners.”

The new online service booking facility can be viewed at: https://www.audi.co.uk/owners-area/online-service-booking/book-a-service.html

Mercedes mid range Saloon, cuts in variants, increase in price

• Most significant model revision ever undertaken by Mercedes-Benz
• Simplified UK model line-up comprises SE and AMG Sport – COMAND Online with Media Interface and DAB radio fitted as standard
• Enhanced visual appeal and more standard equipment including Sport grille with central Mercedes-Benz star, replacing the bonnet mounted star on both model lines
• E 220 CDI SE model now below 130 g/km of CO₂, reducing first year road fund licence to zero and improves BIK taxation by 1 per cent
• New Saloon from £32,400 to £73,720 OTR and Estate from £34,310 to £75,510 OTR

Ahead of its UK introduction in April 2013, the new E-Class Saloon and Estate pricing and specifications have been released, with enhanced standard equipment and increased value for customers.

The new E-Class model line-up consists of SE and AMG Sport, replacing the SE, Avantgarde and Sport models from the previous generation E-Class.

With more than £4,000 of additional standard equipment in the new SE model,  for a £2,280 increase over the previous SE, and almost £3,000 of added standard features in the new AMG Sport for £575 over the previous Sport, the new E-Class provides better value to the customer, combined with attractive finance offerings.

SE overview

The new E-Class SE model, priced at £2,280 over the outgoing model, offers significantly enhanced standard equipment with more than £4,000 of additional equipment as standard, over the previous SE.

The line up for the SE features three diesel engines – E 220 CDI, E 250 CDI and E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, and two petrol engines – E 200 (Saloon only) and E 250.

The AMG Sport model offers the same engines as the SE, with the addition of the 350 BlueTEC and is priced at £2,495 above the SE, starting from £34,895 OTR.

Engines and transmissions

The E 220 CDI is the only engine with manual transmission in the new E-Class range, and the new four-cylinder petrol engines, as well as the E 350 BlueTEC engine, are all EU6 compliant.

There are also significant CO₂ improvements across the new E-Class range, with reductions of up to 20 g/km in emissions. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID Saloon CO₂ figure remains at 109 g/km, but is now achieved with 17” wheels (previously 16”).

Design

The new E-Class features a new contemporary front-end design, as well as new proportions for a sporty appearance. The front has been completely revised with new headlamps, which comprise all functional elements with a single headlamp lens, replacing the previous ‘twin headlight’ design. At the rear, the lights and bumper have also been revised to emphasise the width and feature a characteristic night design. The new rear bumper has a distinctive lip and a black insert with chrome trim.

Technology

New technology on the E-Class includes Active Park Assist with Parktronic as standard, which measures potential spaces to the left and right of the direction of travel from 0-20 mph. If a suitable space is detected, and reverse gear is engaged, the vehicle will be automatically steered into the parking space, with the automatic braking function active throughout. There is also an automatic exiting function to leave the space if Active Park Assist was previously used to park.

Finance and option pricing

Optionally available is the all-new 360° camera (£715), which is close-range and equipped with four surround view cameras that provide assistance during parking, manoeuvring and exiting parking spaces.

Other key optional equipment includes the LED Intelligent Light System with Active Light System, cornering light function and Adaptive High Beam Assist (£1,280), nappa leather (£1,935) and  AirMATIC semi-active air suspension with self-levelling and Adaptive Damping System (£1,455).

The new E-Class E 220 CDI SE Saloon manual is available for £319 per month from Mercedes-Benz Finance ‘Agility PCP’ with a £5,407 customer deposit, and a Contract Hire price of £319 per month too. The E 220 CDI SE Estate is £10 per month more.

The new E 63 AMG is also available via Mercedes-Benz Finance from £699 per month with a £7,995 customer deposit. The model now features increased power and torque to 557 hp and 720 Nm; 19” AMG wheels; dual louvre grille with central Mercedes-Benz star; panoramic sunroof; nappa leather upholstery; Keyless Go; AMG Performance steering wheel; and Intelligent Light System as standard.

Infiniti Q50 for Geneva

• First Infiniti to feature new powertrains for Europe
• World-first production car with Direct Adaptive Steering technology

The new Infiniti Q50 sports saloon makes its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March with all the prerequisites needed to build a strong new level of customer engagement across Europe in the premium class.

Marking the start of a new-generation of Infiniti Q models, the Q50 for Europe includes the first fruit of the co-operation agreement with alliance partner Daimler AG. Technical details of the Q50 for Europe will be announced at the press conference.

“The Infiniti Q50 is a world-class sports saloon with an engine line-up that will clearly demonstrate its intentions to be a major player within the European premium market,” said Bernard Loire, Vice President, Infiniti Africa, Middle East and Europe (AMIE).

Making its first public appearance outside the USA, where it had its world debut in Detroit in January, the Infiniti Q50 heralds a new design direction for the Infiniti range – all of which in future will bear a Q for saloons and coupes or QX badge for crossovers and SUVs – and reinforces the brand’s status as a true technology leader.

Powerful and distinctive, the Q50 design references both Infiniti’s sports saloon past and the iconic concept car trilogy (Essence, Etherea, Emerg-e, all revealed at previous Geneva Motor Shows) that are helping to shape its future.

The Q50 is at the verge of technology innovation: It features the world’s first Direct Adaptive Steering technology. Further details of Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) will be available at the Geneva Motor Show.

As well as the Q50, Infiniti’s Geneva show stand will feature the LE Concept, Infiniti’s first 100% electric car, and triple World Champion Sebastian Vettel’s Formula One machine in its 2013 livery, reflecting the new Title Partnership with Infiniti Red Bull Racing.

Peugeot's GTi is back with a roar or whimper ?

• On sale 18th April 2013
• Powerful, economical, low CO₂ – this modern GTi performs on many levels
• Available in 3 door from £18,895

The iconic GTi is back! Designed to appeal to driving enthusiasts with a perfect blend of performance and style, the 208 GTi will prove to be an exciting addition to the 208 range.

Peugeot now announces prices for the eagerly awaited new 208 GTi, from only £18,895. Following the successful launch of the new 208 in June 2012, Peugeot has rejuvenated the Supermini car segment. The 208 has been a great success and the 208 GTi will deliver even stronger desirability with exhilaration, performance and panache.

Peugeot has made its mark with an exceptional history of hot hatchbacks; the Marque’s DNA has the best genes for creating the modern performance GTi, a playful and chic sports car; a contemporary interpretation of the legend that is a Peugeot GTi.

Key Points:

• Available to order from 1st March 2013
• Price £18,895

Key Technical Information:

• 1.6 THP 200 bhp engine
• Acceleration 0-62 mph - 6.8 seconds
• Maximum Torque 275 Nm @1700rpm
• CO₂ just 139 g/km

Key Specification:

• 1.6 THP 200 bhp engine
• Unique ‘Carbone’ 17” Alloys
• Red painted front and rear brake calipers
• Twin chrome exhaust and body coloured rear spoiler
• Lighting signature and DRL with LED Technology
• GTi trim – Sports seats with black half leather
• Digital radio (DAB)
• Rear parking aid

The announcement of this new Peugeot 208 GTi follows closely on from the launch of 208 which has taken off since launch, now with over 21,000 orders since order books opened.

British buyers will be delighted with this modern take of a true Peugeot GTi classic.

Renault/Nissan ready to take over the world

• Despite recession in Europe and slowing pace of sales in China, global sales were a record 8.1 million units
• Strongest growth came from emerging markets and the United States
• Zero-emission sales up more than 80% from 2011

The Renault-Nissan Alliance sold a record 8,101,310 vehicles in 2012, representing one in 10 new cars sold worldwide.

Calendar-year sales increased about 1% from 2011, with strong growth in emerging markets and the US, compensating for the protracted European slowdown. 2012 was the fourth straight year of sales growth for the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

Renault group sold 2,550,286 units worldwide in 2012, down 6.3% from 2011. Renault group sales increased 9.1% outside Europe, thanks in part to strong growth in Brazil, Russia, and Algeria. Sales declined 18% in Europe as car sales throughout the continent dropped 8.6%.

Nissan sold 4,940,133 units, up 5.8%, setting a new calendar year record. Nissan has two markets each exceeding 1 million units: China and the United States.

AVTOVAZ sold 610,891 vehicles, down 5.5% from 2011 as a major Russian incentive program came to an end. In December, the Renault-Nissan Alliance created a joint venture to accelerate its market offensive in Russia where the Alliance sells one in three cars nationwide.

“2012 was a challenging year due to the continued decline in Renault’s historic core market of western Europe and due to political tension in China, Nissan’s top market worldwide,” said Renault-Nissan Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn. “Thanks to the American rebound and strong demand in emerging markets, we maintained our market share and are very well positioned in global growth markets.”

Renault group highlights

Renault’s group sales outside of Europe in 2012 set a record, climbing 9.1% to 1,279,598 units, thanks to the launch of new products and the company’s aggressive efforts to expand its strategic markets, particularly Brazil, Russia and India.

2012 marked the first time that Renault group, which encompasses the Renault, Dacia and Renault Samsung Motors brands, generated more than half its sales outside Europe. Group sales outside of Europe accounted for 50.2% of the total in 2012, up 7.1 percentage points from 43.1% in the previous year.

Renault’s top markets worldwide are France, Brazil and Russia. Sales in Brazil surged 24.3% to a record 241,594 units with record market share of 6.6%, thanks in part to the launch of the popular Duster sports utility vehicle and the continued success of the remodeled Sandero hatchback. Renault’s sales in Russia climbed 22.7% to a record 189,852 units with record market share of 6.5%. Renault is the third most popular brand in Russia, thanks to strong demand for the mid-sized Mégane, Fluence sedan and Duster.

Despite growth in emerging economies, Renault’s total group sales decreased 6.3% to 2,550,286 units due to the prolonged sales slump in Europe. Excluding Russia, Renault group’s European sales declined 18% to 1,270,688 units as the overall auto market in the European Union tumbled to its lowest level in almost 17 years.

Renault remained the number one passenger car maker in France, with sales of the Twingo mini-vehicle, Mégane and Scenic multi-purpose van all leaders in their segments. It also remained Europe’s light commercial vehicles (LCV) leader for the fifteenth straight year with a market share of 15.5%.

In terms of sales by brand, Renault posted sales of 2,124,773 units, down 6% compared with the previous year. Renault sales accounted for 83% of group sales in 2012. Sales of Dacia rose 4.8% to a record 359,822 units thanks to the launch of new models including the Lodgy multi-purpose van and Dokker, the first light-commercial vehicle from the brand, as well as the remodeled Sandero hatchbackand Logan sedan.

Sales at Renault Samsung Motors in Korea fell 45.1% as the company began to implement a major corporate restructuring plan, including an overhaul of its product lineup and retail strategy.

Nissan highlights

Nissan posted record global sales of 4.94 million units in 2012, up 5.8% from 2011.

In Japan, Nissan’s sales rose 11.6% to 659,756 units. The new Note hatchback, NV350 Caravan and Serena minivan contributed to the sales increase. Mini-vehicles grew 5.4% to 153,335 units, a record for a calendar year.

Overseas sales rose 4.9% to a record 4,280,377 units despite a drop in sales in China, Nissan’s largest market.During calendar year 2012, Nissan’s sales in China totaled 1.18 million units, in line with the revised sales forecast issued in November. While Nissan and all Japanese automakers felt the sales impact of a territorial dispute, Nissan’s showroom traffic in China has normalized and is exceeding last year’s level.

In the US, Nissan reported record sales of 1,141,656 units for Nissan and Infiniti brand vehicles, up 9.5% compared with 2011. Nissan brand sales increased 8.2% year-on-year to a record 1,021,779 units thanks to strong demand for the new Altima sedan, Rogue crossover and Versa compact car. Nissan’s total market share in the US was 7.9%.

In 2012, five out of the top ten vehicles sold in Mexico were Nissan, as the company posted both record sales and market share. Sales climbed 9.3% to 245,634 units while market share reached 24.9%.

In Brazil, where Nissan plans to build its first plant in Resende in 2014, Nissan sold a record 104,711 units, up 56% compared with the previous year. Nissan was Brazil’s fastest-growing brand for the third straight year. The company’s market share reached 2.9%, up 0.9 percentage points.

In Europe, Nissan posted a record market share thanks to strong sales of the Qashqai and Juke crossovers. Although sales fell 2.4% to 678,697 units amid the overall downturn in the market, Nissan’s market share edged up 0.1 percentage point to a record 3.9%.

Sales in the UK rose 10% to a record 118,211 units while market share rose 0.3 percentage points to 5.2%, also a record. In Russia, Nissan’s top market in Europe, sales rose 11.7% to 162,956 units. Market share stood at 5.6%.

AVTOVAZ highlights

The Alliance’s partner in Russia, AVTOVAZ, sold 610,891 units globally, down 5.5% from 2011. In Russia alone, AVTOVAZ, owner of the iconic brand Lada, sold 544,309 units, down 7.3% year-on-year following the end of a special national incentive program. With AVTOVAZ, Renault-Nissan already sells more than one in three cars in Russia and aims to have a market share of at least 40%.

In December, the Renault-Nissan Alliance created a joint venture and became a controlling shareholder for AVTOVAZ, Russia’s largest car company. With ongoing investments in technology and manufacturing complexes throughout Russia, Renault-Nissan and AVTOVAZ will have a Russian capacity of at least 1.7 million cars per year starting in 2016.

The manufacturing complex in Togliatti is now home to one of the largest platform-sharing programs in the Renault-Nissan Alliance. The site – one of the world’s largest car plants -- already produces the LADA Largus. Production of the new Nissan Almera began last year and will be fully ramped up in 2013. Production will soon span five models across three brands – LADA, Renault and Nissan. Investments in this project will total about €400 million.

Zero-emission highlights  

The Renault-Nissan Alliance is the only automaker with a wide range of 100% electric vehicles (EVs) which can be charged with purely renewable energy.

In 2012, global sales of all zero-emission vehicles across the Alliance were 43,829 units, up 83.8% from 2011 as Nissan LEAF sales increased worldwide and Renault launched two more EVs. The Alliance’s worldwide zero-emission market share stood at 64%, excluding Twizy, Renault’s two-seater urban commuter.

Since sales began in December 2010 to the end of 2012, the Alliance sold 67,723 zero-emission vehicles globally.  

The Nissan LEAF hatchback is by far the world’s best-selling zero-emission car.  In 2012, Nissan sold 26,976 units globally, an increase of 22% from 2011. Cumulative sales of Nissan LEAF reached 49,117 units since its launch in December 2010.

In 2012, Renault sold 16,853 zero-emission vehicles. Since the debut of the Kangoo Z.E. small van in October 2011, Renault has sold 18,606 zero-emission vehicles cumulatively.

In addition to the Kangoo Z.E., named International Van of the Year 2012, and Twizy,  Renault also sells the Fluence Z.E., an all-electric sedan, based on the conventional Fluence sedan, and the subcompact zero-emission ZOE.