Purpose

I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.

Saturday, 6 May 2017

New special edition AirTop roof tent, developed by AUTOHOME in cooperation with the MINI Design Team.

  • New special edition AirTop roof tent, developed by AUTOHOME in cooperation with the MINI Design Team
  • Two-man tent, designed perfectly to be mounted on the roof of a MINI Countryman and other MINI models
  • Uses conventional MINI roof rails with no need for tools to install
  • Comes with a solid aluminium ladder to climb up into the roof tent 
  • Set to appeal to spontaneous travellers and adventurers
  • Available to order for summer from AUTOHOME
A new special edition of the AUTOHOME AirTop roof tent has today been launched in conjunction with MINI.
The Italian specialist in automobile roof tents, AUTOHOME, has teamed up with the car brand to develop a two-man roof tent designed to be mounted perfectly onto the roof of a MINI. The roof tent comes available in black or white, in keeping with the contrasting roof and mirror caps of the new MINI Countryman.
Designed in collaboration with the MINI Design Team, the roof tent looks like a conventional roof box when closed, with fibreglass housing and aerodynamic lines for minimal air resistance and noise. The tent is then raised when in use by means of four gas pressure springs.
The roof tent can be mounted onto the MINI roof rails, which come as standard with the new MINI Countryman, without the use of tools in just a few easy moves.
Inside, there is a high-density mattress with cotton cover, two doors and two windows with zips, close-meshed mosquito nets at all openings and a battery-operated LED interior light, as well as luggage nets and pockets to stow personal items. A solid aluminium ladder is provided to climb up onto the top floor of the MINI Countryman.
Measuring 2.10 metres in length and 1.30 metres in width, the new MINI-inspired roof tent is the perfect solution to outdoor adventure sleeping, whether on a short weekend break or a longer travelling experience.
Launched in the UK in February 2017, the new MINI Countryman is the biggest and most versatile model to be launched in the brand’s 57-year history. With its larger external dimensions, and increases in space throughout the cabin and luggage area, it offers occupants even greater comfort and a genuinely premium ambience.

JD Classics secured two overall race victories at this weekend’s Donington Historic Festival.

  • JD Classics secured two overall race victories at this weekend’s Donington Historic Festival, having entered a total of four cars
  • The Maldon-based team competed in a Bastos Rover SD1, ex-Tom Walkinshaw Racing Jaguar XJS, Costin Lister and Ecurie Ecosse Jaguar XK120
  • The JD Classics Costin Lister took victory in the Stirling Moss Trophy, while the Bastos Rover won the Historic Touring Car Challenge
  • Latest two victories follow JD Classics’ season-opening two race wins at the 75th Goodwood Members’ Meeting
JD Classics has followed up its double-win at the season-opening Goodwood Members’ Meeting with a further two victories at this weekend’s Donington Historic Festival.
The Maldon-based classic car specialist was competing with four fully race-prepared entries; a Bastos Rover SD1, ex-Tom Walkinshaw Racing Jaguar XJS, Costin Lister and an Ecurie Ecosse Jaguar XK120. 
The weekend’s racing kicked off with qualifying for the Historic Touring Challenge, in which JD Classics was fielding the Bastos Rover and Jaguar XJS. Early laps revealed a breather tank issue for the Rover, which was quickly rectified by the JD Classics engineers, before it went on to set a blistering pole position time of 1:16.267. The Jaguar XJS, with John Young at the wheel, was sitting 11th on the grid by the end of the session.
The Historic Touring Car Challenge race got underway on Saturday afternoon, with Steve Soper taking over driving duties in the JD Classics’ Rover, and Chris Ward piloting the Jaguar XJS. After the rolling start, the Rover began to show its pace, pulling away from the pack with each lap. The Jaguar XJS was performing well, too, having moved from 11th to fifth in the space of just five laps.
By the time the pit window opened for the mandatory 60-second stops, the Rover SD1 had pulled out a 45-second lead. Even coming in for its stop and allowing Chris Ward to swap from the XJS into the Rover, it still rejoined the race in second position. Just a couple of laps later it was back in the lead, eventually crossing the finishing line 39 seconds ahead of the chasing car. The XJS, meanwhile, was consistently quick throughout, finishing in sixth position.
Next up was the Stirling Moss Trophy, where Chris Ward once again put in an incredible qualifying lap that saw the Costin Lister set a pole position time within his first six laps. No other car on track was able to beat the time for the remainder of the session, including the JD Classics-supported XK120 which qualified in 26th position with a lap three seconds quicker than its time last year.
The race began late on Saturday with a rolling start, in which Chris Ward established his place at the front of the pack and began pulling away in the Costin Lister. On lap 8, Ward had begun to lap the slowest cars, and the team decided to bring the Lister into the pits for its 60-second stop, before rejoining the race in fifth. As other cars began to pit, the Costin Lister made its way back into the lead, persistently chased by a Lister Knobbly that closed the gap to 0.4 seconds. But by the time the chequered flag fell, Ward had secured JD Classics’ second victory by a margin of 1.1 seconds.
The Ecurie Ecosse Jaguar XK120 of Steve and Josh Ward, meanwhile, made up seven places over the course of the race to finish in 19th overall and first in in its class.
JD Classics Managing Director, Derek Hood, said: “This was another weekend of fantastic performances from our Competition Department. The cars were brilliantly prepared by our engineers back at our Maldon HQ, and maintained to perfection at the track. We’re only two events into the historic racing calendar and JD Classics has already secured four victories –here’s to plenty more over the next few months.”

Borgward premiere's a new electric car at Shanghai, ready for build at the new Bremen plant.

WORLD PREMIERE OF A CONCEPT CAR EQUIPPED WITH AN INNOVATIVE ELECTRIC DRIVE SYSTEM

The Borgward BXi7—Powered by Electricity

At this year’s Auto Shanghai (April 21–28, 2017), Borgward presented the BXi7, an SUV with all-electric drive. The near-series concept car demonstrates the impressive potential of the Borgward e-PROPULSION electric drive platform particularly clearly. The platform is suitable for both SUVs and sedans. The battery makes a big impression with its high energy density. It gives the BXi7 a range of up to 500 kilometers and can be charged to 80 percent of capacity within 30 minutes at a fast-charging station.
An electric motor at both the front and rear axles turn the SUV into an all-wheel-drive vehicle. The motors have a combined output of 200 kW / 272 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Newton meters. The vehicle accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 200 km/h.
A high level of operating comfort is ensured by the e-PROPULSION smartphone app.  Among other things, this app enables drive system and interior preconditioning, the intelligent control of various charging functions, and the monitoring of the vehicle’s range, remaining charging time, and interior temperature.
With its LIGHTNING BLUE paint job, the characteristic appearance of the BORGWARD BXi7 reflects the fresh, forward-looking spirit of BORGWARD e-PROPULSION. Exclusive design features are also displayed by the roof rails with their seamless transition into the roof spoiler, the vehicle’s front and rear bumpers, the rear diffuser, and aerodynamically optimized wheels. The exterior design is rounded out by blue color applications in SKY COLOUR and the signature LED daytime running lights.
The interior is upgraded by large decorative elements in LIGHTNING BLUE, discreet trim, and the typical BORGWARD rhombus seat stitching in SKY COLOUR. This impression of sporty elegance is enhanced by the newly designed gear selector lever in the center console and the large LCD displays.

Bremen to become Borgward’s global center for electric mobility

As announced in fall 2016, Borgward Group AG is establishing its global competence center for electric mobility in Bremen. On a 140,000 square meter site along the Weser River, Borgward will build a production facility for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles as well as a test track, a brand studio, and a delivery center. Construction will begin in early 2018, and production is scheduled to commence in 2019. The plant will have a production capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year.

Friday, 5 May 2017

The new Yeti Replacement moves the model towards a more standarised car than the car it replaces.

  • Name and spelling derived from the language of Alaska’s indigenous people
  • The name KAROQ is a combination of the terms ‘KAA’RAQ’ (car) and ‘RUQ’ (arrow)
  • Consistent nomenclature for all current and future ŠKODA SUV models
  • With the KAROQ, ŠKODA is consistently advancing its SUV campaign
  • World premiere of the new compact SUV will take place in Stockholm on 18 May
ŠKODA’s new compact SUV is called the KAROQ. The name and its spelling originate from the language of the Alutiiq, an indigenous tribe who live on an island off the southern coast of Alaska. 
For the name of the new compact SUV, ŠKODA has drawn on the spelling of the ŠKODA KODIAQ and in doing so, has created a consistent nomenclature for the brand’s current and future SUV models. 
The ŠKODA KAROQ will be introduced to the public for the first time in Stockholm on 18 May and represents a further milestone in ŠKODA’s SUV campaign.
“The ŠKODA KAROQ is a completely newly designed SUV that sets new benchmarks for our brand and its segment in every way. With this new SUV, we are taking the next logical step in our SUV strategy,” said ŠKODA CEO Bernhard Maier. 
“The ŠKODA KAROQ impresses with its unique brand identity and a distinctive product identity and is introducing – alongside the typical ŠKODA strengths – the brand’s new, emotive design language into the compact SUV segment,” added Maier.
As before with the ŠKODA KODIAQ, the people from Kodiak Island provided the inspiration for the name of the ŠKODA KAROQ. 
The coordinates of the remote archipelago off the southern coast of Alaska are 57°N and 153°W, and its untamed, unspoilt landscape is fascinating. In the language of the indigenous people from the Alutiiq tribe who live there, ‘car’ is ‘KAA’RAQ’. 
They use the term ‘RUQ’ for ‘arrow’, the symbol that constitutes the central element of ŠKODA’s logo and represents the brand’s dynamism. In the end, the name for ŠKODA’s new compact SUV – the ŠKODA KAROQ – was formed from the powerful combination of both words.
“It is important to us to give our new SUV a powerful name. It also forms part of a naming approach across our SUV models,” said Werner Eichhorn, Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “At the same time, we are creating exceptional and memorable brand recognition value for our customers,” continued Eichhorn. 
As part of ŠKODA’s 2025 future strategy, the brand will continue to consistently advance the expansion of its model range in the coming years. The focus will be on expanding the SUV portfolio in particular. 
With the launch of the ŠKODA KODIAQ, a new large SUV was introduced to the international markets only recently. With the introduction of the ŠKODA KAROQ, the company is now setting the next milestone. 
The new compact SUV will be celebrating its world premiere on 18 May in Stockholm. Its market launch will follow in the second half of 2017.

Groupe Renault moves forward with a massive increase in group revenues helped by a 10% growth in sales Units.

  • Group revenues totaled €13,129 million in first quarter 2017 (€12,560 million excluding AVTOVAZ). The 25.2% increase (19.7% excluding AVTOVAZ) resulted primarily from an increase in the Group’s brand volume and sales to partners.
  • First quarter sales rose by 15.8% to 873,678 vehicles (at constant scope, including Lada) in a market that grew 4%.
  • Sales volumes and market share increased in all regions. The Renault and Dacia brands set new sales records for a first quarter.
  • In Europe, Group registrations rose 10% in a market up 8%, driven by new models and the confirmation of the good results of Kadjar, Clio 4, Captur and Duster. 
  • UK is Groupe Renault’s fifth biggest market globally in Q1 2017
  • Outside Europe, the Group posted a 100% increase in sales in Asia-Pacific and a 31% increase in the Africa-Middle East-India Region.
  • The Group is confirming its guidance for the year.
Sales Results: first quarter highlights
Groupe Renault (including Lada) worldwide registrations (Passenger Car + LCV) increased by 15.8% in a market up 4%. The Group’s share of the world market now stands at 3.8%, up 0.4 points on 2016. The Renault and Dacia brands set new sales records for a first quarter. Renault Samsung Motors sales increased by 56.3% and those of Lada by 7%.
In Europe, the Group’s share of the PC + LCV market increased 0.2 points to 10.1%. Sales grew 10% to 478,706 vehicles. 
The Renault brand continued to progress, with a 10.1% rise in registrations. Market share came out at 7.7%, up 0.1 points. Renault notably benefited from the complete renewal in 2016 of the Megane family car line-up. 
Electric vehicle sales increased by 46% to nearly 10,000 units (excluding Twizy) thanks to the success of New ZOE with an official range of 250 miles (NEDC). Sales of ZOE rose 57% and reinforced the Group’s leadership with a 28% share of the electric vehicle market. 
The Dacia brand posted a sales record for a first quarter with 112,457 registrations and a 2.4% share of the market. This 9.5% growth resulted from the performance of New Sandero – the facelifted model launched in late 2016.
In France, Groupe Renault benefited from the growth of the market with a 5.6% increase in registrations. The Group placed five vehicles in the top ten best-selling passenger cars (including the top-seller, Clio) and occupied the top four positions in the LCV top ten. The Dacia brand was buoyed by the success of Sandero (the leader in sales to retail customers).
In the UK, Groupe Renault has experienced unprecedented growth over the last five years. This growth has continued in 2017 with 39,498 Groupe Renault vehicles being sold in Q1 – up 3.8% on Q1 2016. The UK is Groupe Renault’s fifth biggest market worldwide.
Outside Europe, all the Regions increased their sales volumes and market share.
Groupe Renault strengthened its positions with the success of its range: Kwid in India, QM6 and SM6 in South Korea, Kaptur in Russia, Koleos in China, Megane Sedan in Turkey, and Captur in the Americas.
In Africa-Middle East-India, Group registrations rose 30.9% for a market share of 6% (up 1.4 points).
Sales in Iran rose sharply (up 161.5%) for a market share of 9%, up 4.9 points, thanks to the success of Tondar and Sandero.
In India, Renault continued to rank as the number-one European brand with a 3.6% share of the market and a 9.9% increase in sales. Kwid registrations reached nearly 27,000.
In North Africa, the Group took a 41.5% share of the market, up 8.3 points with a 13.4% increase in sales.
In Eurasia, registrations increased by 6.3% in a market down 0.5%. The market share of Groupe Renault, now including the Lada brand, rose 1.5 points to 24.1%, notably thanks to a strong momentum in Russia.
In a Russian market that grew slightly (+1%) for the first time in four years, the Group increased its sales by 9.2% (including Lada).
The Renault brand took a 8.1% share of the market, up 0.8 points. Registrations of Kaptur, launched in June 2016, came to over 6,000 for the quarter.
Lada sales volumes rose 8% for a market share of 19.1% (up 1.2 points) thanks to the success of the new Vesta and Xray models. 
With the consolidation of Lada sales volumes, Russia has become the Group’s number-two market.
In Turkey, sales increased 0.8% in a market down 7.4%. The Group posted a 19% share of the market, up 1.5 points. New Mégane Sedan, awarded “Car of the Year”, is off to a successful start with over 6,500 registrations.
In the Asia-Pacific Region, registrations were up 99.7% in a market up 4.6%. 
In China, Renault sold nearly 18,000 vehicles (compared with 3,400 in first-quarter 2016), including 10,000 New Koleos, launched at end-2016 and produced locally at a new plant in Wuhan.
Renault Samsung Motors posted a growth of 56.4% in a South Korean market up 0.9%, for a market share of 6.2%, up 2.2 points, driven by the success of the latest product launches (SM6 and QM6).
In the Americas region, sales increased 19% in a market up 9%, for a market share of 6.3%, up 0.5 points. The success of Sandero, Logan and Duster Oroch models was confirmed.
Groupe Renault continue to take full advantage of the recovery in the Argentinean market, with an 87.2% increase in registrations in a market up 42.8%. Market share rose by 3.1 points to 13.1%. Renault is fully benefitting from the local production of Sandero and Logan since end-2016. The market in Brazil has stabilized (down 1.2%) and the Group maintained its market share at 6.8%.
First quarter revenues by operating sector
Group revenues came to €13,129 million in first quarter 2017, up 25.2%. Excluding the impact of the consolidation of AVTOVAZ, Group revenues increased by 19.7% to €12,560 million (up 18.4% at constant exchange rates).
Automotive excluding AVTOVAZ revenues totaled €11,939 million, up 20.1%, mainly thanks to growth in sales volumes (up 9.2 points). The increase in sales to partners contributed 3.5 points to this growth. The performance reflects the strong momentum in our CKD1 activity in Iran and China and in the sales of vehicles assembled in Europe (notably with the start of Nissan Micra production). The price effect (+2.4 points) benefited primarily from recent launches. The currency effect was positive at 1.3 points, mainly owing to the strengthening of the Russian ruble and Brazilian real, despite the negative impact of the British pound.
Sales Financing (RCI Banque) posted revenues of €621 million in the first quarter, up 13.5% on 2016. The number of new financing contracts increased by 21.4%. Average performing assets rose 21.9% to €37.9 billion. 
Outlook for 2017
In 2017, the global market is expected to a record growth of 1.5% to 2.5% (versus 1.5% to 2% previously). The European market is still expected to increase by 2% this year, as is the French market. 
Outside Europe, the Russian market might increase by up to 5% (versus stable previously), whereas the Brazilian market should remain stable. China (+5%) and India (+8%) are expected to continue their growth momentum. 
With this context, and following the consolidation of AVTOVAZ, Groupe Renault is confirming its guidance:
  • increase Group revenues, beyond the impact of AVTOVAZ (at constant exchange rates)*,
  • increase Group operating profit in euros*,
  • generate a positive automotive operational free cash flow.
* compared with 2016 Groupe Renault published results
Groupe Renault consolidated revenues
(€ million)
2017
2016
Change
2017/2016
Q1
Automotive excluding AVTOVAZ
11,939
9,942
+20.1%
Sales Financing
621
547
+13.5%
AVTOVAZ
750
-
-
AVTOVAZ eliminations
-181
-
-
Total
13,129
10,489
+25.2%
Excluding the impact of AVTOVAZ consolidation
12,560
10,489
+19.7%
1CKD: Complete Knock Down

Volvo Cars continues to make hefty profits on increased income, as new models sell well.

Volvo Cars, the premium car maker, reported an operating profit of SEK3.5 billion for the first three months of the year, up 11 per cent from SEK3.1 billion during the same period last year. The increase was mainly driven by strong demand for the company’s XC60 and 90 series cars. 
Volvo Cars reported an operating profit margin of 7.3 per cent, down from 7.5 per cent last year. Profitability was partly offset by costs related to the launch of the new 90 series cars and the new XC60, as well as continuous investments in new technologies and a rising number of employees. Since the first quarter of 2016, Volvo Cars has welcomed almost 5,000 new employees, bringing the total global workforce to 33,000.
Global retail sales increased by 7.1 per cent to 129,148 cars in the January-to-March period, resulting in a first quarter revenue of SEK47.6 billion, up 13 per cent from SEK42.0 billion last year.
“In the first three months we have seen strong demand for our 90 series cars as they reached markets worldwide,” said Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Cars. “We also unveiled the new XC60 in the first quarter and we expect this car to have a positive impact on sales and profitability.” 
In March, Volvo Cars unveiled the new XC60 model at the Geneva Motor Show, which was received to great acclaim. Later this year, Volvo Cars will launch the XC40, based on the new CMA small vehicle platform, positioning the company for further growth in the fast-growing SUV segment.
Key figures
Q1 2017
Q1 2016
Net revenue, MSEK
47,592
42,027
Operating income, EBIT, MSEK
3,491
3,145
EBIT margin, %
7.3
7.5
Net income, MSEK
2,606
2,069
Cash flow from operating and investing activities, MSEK
-2,304
-323

The Asia Pacific region reported sales growth of 16 per cent in the first quarter to 32,872 cars, boosted by a strong performance in China, Volvo Cars’ largest market. There, sales rose by 18.8 per cent to 23,335 cars, following strong demand for the locally produced XC60 and S60L models, as well as the XC90 and S90.
Sales in the EMEA region increased by 9.2 per cent to 78,820 cars sold, on the back of a strong performance in Sweden, the United Kingdom and Germany. The region continued to see strong demand for the new V90 and XC90, as well as Europe’s most popular premium mid-size SUV, the XC60.
The Americas region reported sales of 16,641 cars, of which 13,476 were in the United States. The XC90 remained the best-selling model in the Americas.

The latest DS, the DS7, a crossover to take on the best and beat them all at their own game.

  • The DS 7 CROSSBACK will first be available to customers as an exclusive ‘La Première’ model.
  • Customers can be one of the first to own a DS 7 CROSSBACK by going online or by visiting a DS Store or DS Salon to make the special customer reserve for this exclusive Limited Edition model
  • The experience is like stepping into the world of ‘haute-couture’ and ‘made-to-measure’ with a vehicle that combines premium levels of refinement, style and advanced technology features.
FOR PREMIUM CUSTOMERS THAT WISH TO BE FIRST WITH LA PREMIÈRE
Initial customers of the new DS 7 CROSSBACK will be those that place orders for the exclusive Limited Edition La Première model – a premium-specified, sumptuously-equipped distinctive SUV vehicle that features an impressive combination of advanced technology features.
La Première includes features of charismatic design; Elegant proportions, DS ACTIVE LED VISION, Hypnotic 3D rear lights and two 12-inch instrumentation screens with an innovative interface. French luxury know-how is clearly evident with the ‘Art Rubis’ leather upholstery interior trim – unique to La Première – with an obsession for detail and magnified interior roominess.
Cutting-edge equipment
This innovative approach goes hand-in-hand with the cutting-edge features of DS 7 CROSSBACK La Première with the latest technologies that will subsequently be available across the range: DS CONNECTED PILOT -paving the way for autonomous driving through Active Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist, DS NIGHT VISION - considerably improving visibility for driving at night, and DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION - the 21st century DS suspension system, which uses a camera to anticipate bumps and undulations in the road for optimising ride comfort.
Distinctive styling
DS 7 CROSSBACK La Première stands out for its chic, exclusive styling: an elegant, charismatic allure with a choice of colours; Cumulus Grey metallic, Pearl White or Perla Nera Black pearlescent contrasting with a unique Nappa leather upholstery in a shade called Art Rubis, for a deep, welcoming environment. The refined watchstrap leather design of the seats is accentuated by pearl top-stitching, and the Nappa leather features a patina effect. Further, the exclusive B.R.M R180 timepiece displays the colours of the interior environment, while the dashboard and protective floor mats carry La Première identity.
Reflecting an obsession for detail, touches of the characteristic Art Rubis shade can be seen on the vehicle’s exterior, on the DS monogram badging at the front, the badges on the side and even on the sculpted 20-inch ‘Paris’ gloss black Onyx diamond-cut alloy wheels. This Limited Edition model magnifies a wealth of specification highlights available on the new DS SUV range, which is set to delight its first drivers.
To ensure optimised dynamic performance, DS 7 CROSSBACK La Première is available with a choice of the two most powerful engines in the range: Diesel BlueHDi 180 S&S and Petrol THP 225 S&S, both mated to the latest new-generation Efficient Automatic Transmission with 8-speeds (EAT8).
In the UK, DS 7 CROSSBACK La Première is available with the choice of the two power units, one petrol, one diesel, both priced at £42,650 on-the-road.
Optional features include:
  • DS Night Vision Pack: £1,300
  • Electric opening panoramic sunroof with LED lighting: £1,000
  • FOCAL Electra® HiFi system with 14 speakers and perfected audio experience: £990
  • DS Urban Pack (Park Pilot and 360 Vision): £600
  • DS ConnectedCAM: £350
  • Extended bi-zone automatic air conditioning: £200
  • DS Sensorial Drive (Cashmere or Titanium modes): £150
Potential customers are invited to make reservations for the Limited Edition, which is only available to order in 2017 until 31 December. A dedicated online site: https://reservationlapremierefinance.ds7crossback.co.uk/ allows them to configure the specification and make payment adjustments to personalise their preferred repayment terms.
This Limited Edition of the new DS 7 CROSSBACK - La Première is available to review online via the DS brand website: www.DSautomobiles.co.uk. 
To reserve one of these exclusive and highly-specified Limited Edition DS 7 CROSSBACK La Première vehicles, anytime anywhere, customers can simply follow the step-by-step guide. As part of the online discovery of this first DS 7 CROSSBACK Limited Edition, customers will be able to configure their specific vehicle (their choice of body colour, equipment, powertrain, etc.). 
Buyers who reserve La Première will be kept progressively informed with all developments and status before taking delivery of their special vehicle.
Virtually available now
All those who would nevertheless like to become instantly acquainted with the new vehicle, admire the body colours available or discover the exclusive equipment features, they will be able to do so by stepping into a virtual world. 
DS 7 CROSSBACK La Première is also available for viewing in every detail exclusively with DS Virtual Vision - the highest-quality virtual reality experience set up in DS Stores and DS Salons, the first of which is available now at the DS Urban Store in Westfield London, the high-class shopping centre in White City. 
With this innovation, customers will be able to use a headset to view in high quality definition the new SUV full-size in 3D as part of a dynamic, interactive and captivating experience. Orders can also be placed at a DS Store or DS Salon (part of the DS network of Dealerships) via the website.
DS 7 CROSSBACK La Première - UK Premium Equipment includes:
Interior features
'La Première' badging on the dashboard
Exclusive B.R.M R180 Timepiece
Art Rubis Leather upholstery on front and rear seats, leather dashboard, front armrest, front and rear door panels and door handles
Bi-Tone Black and Art Rubis leather steering wheel
3 ISOFIX seats – two outside rear and the front passenger seat with top-tether fixings
'La Première’ carpet mats
Aluminium sport pedals and footrest
Safety & Security
TSM (Trailer Sway Mitigation) provides directional stability system for trailer towing
Hill Assist Start (brake assistance for driving off when on an incline)
Active Blind Spot Detection
Perimetric, volumetric and anti-lift alarm
DS Connect Box emergency & assistance system
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Driver Attention Alert
Active Safety Brake
Lane Departure Warning
Extended Traffic Sign Recognition
DS Driver Attention Monitoring
Electrically folding and electrochrome diming door mirrors with DS spotlight LED
Auto rise / fall electric door windows from remote control
Lane Keeping Assist
In car entertainment
Onboard computer with 12-inch screened instrumentation
12-inch HD touchscreen
Wireless charging for compatible Smartphones
Three USB sockets (one in centre and two in rear centre console)
DS Connect Nav (DAB digital radio, Connected 3D navigation, 8-speakers, Mirror Screen, voice recognition)
Lighting & visibility
DS Active LED Vision featuring the distinctive revolving headlamps that turn 1800 when operating
Poly Ambient Lighting (including 9 LED colours)
DS LED 3D Rear Lights with a scaled-diamond appearance
Exterior style
‘La Première’ Monogram, with No.1 badging, on the bonnet edge and ‘La Première’ badging on front doors
Electrically, folding and diming door mirrors with DS spotlight LED
Laser-etched exterior door mirrors
Comfort & Convenience
Electric tailgate opening with loaded arm
Keyless entry and start
DS Connect Pilot (Active cruise control with Stop & Go)
Wheels
Exclusive 20 inch ‘Paris’ gloss black Onyx diamond-cut alloy wheels
Space saver spare wheel
Colour choice
Cumulus Grey (metallic), Pearl White (pearlescent) or Perla Nera Black (pearlescent)
Petrol and Diesel DS 7 CROSSBACK La Première models:
BRAKES
Front: 304mm x 28mm ventilated discs
Rear: 290mm x 12mm solid discs
SUSPENSION
Front: MacPherson struts / lower wishbones; coil springs; hydraulic dampers & anti-roll bar
Rear: Independent wheels, multi-arm trailing arm; coil springs; hydraulic dampers and anti-roll bar
STEERING Variable power assisted steering
Turning circle between kerbs 10.45 metres
Number of turns lock to lock 3
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS mm
Length 4,570
Width (inc. mirrors) 1,895
Height with/without roof rail 1,625 / 1,620
Wheelbase 2,738
BOOT VOLUME
Seats folded down - up to roof 1,752 litres
Seat up - below parcel shelf 555 VDA /628 litres