|
|
|
|
 |
Kia Track'ster revealed
(Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:09:00 GMT)
The Kia Track'ster concept car has been unveiled at the Chicago motor show.
The two-seat concept car previews how a sporty three-door version of the Soul might look.
Powered by a 247bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the four-wheel-drive Track'ster's aggressive styling is designed to make it look like a bulldog, according to its chief designer Tom Kearns.
The Track'ster's lowered ride height accentuates the muscular styling, as do the large vented Brembo disc brakes. It's also significantly longer and wider than the Soul.
The Track'ster's flared wheelarches are filled by 19-inch alloys, while at the front there's a large lower air intake, edged by two round LED lights. The carbonfibre side skirts incorporate functional rear-brake cooling ducts. Twin exhausts complete the Track'ster's sporty exterior styling.
Inside, the Soul's rear seat has been removed, and the fronts make way for Inferno Orange suede racing seats, while Granite Grey leather is used to trim the steering wheel and door panels. Other kit includes a touch-screen panel to control the entertainment, navigation and ventilation. There's also an engine start/stop button.
Kia has described the Track'ster concept car as the 'ultimate sporting representation' of the Soul. The three-door Track'ster could eventually be added to a Soul range alongside the five-door model and a convertible version that's currently under evaluation.
Kia says there are no plans to put the Track'ster into production, but a US launch would make sense, with more than 100,000 Souls sold there in 2011.
Pete Barden
|
Geneva 2012: Vauxhall Astra VXR
(Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:51:00 GMT)
New pictures of the Vauxhall Astra VXR have been released, ahead of its public debut at the Geneva motor show next month.
The Astra VXR goes on sale in the spring and will go head-to-head with hot hatches such as the VW Golf GTI and the forthcoming Ford Focus ST.
The VXR is based on the three-door Astra GTC. Its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produces 276bhp and 295lb ft of torque, which is enough to give it a top speed of 155mph. Vauxhall has yet to issue acceleration figures, but we expect the VXR to cover the 0-62mph dash in well under seven seconds.
The car’s front-wheel-drive chassis set-up incorporates stiffer suspension, Vauxhall’s Flexride adaptive dampers and a mechanical limited-slip differential. The system will be controllable, with two buttons that can ramp up the chassis, steering and throttle to differing ‘performance’ modes.
The VXR’s styling builds on the regular GTC’s package, adding sideskirts, new front and rear bumpers, a roof spoiler and twin exhaust pipes. Inside, there are different seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and upgraded instruments.
No pricing has been announced, but we’d expect a figure of around £26k when the VXR reaches dealerships in the spring.
Vauxhall is also showing the new Mokka SUV and Insignia BiTurbo at the Geneva motor show.
Leo Wilkinson
|
Insurer to reward good, honest drivers
(Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:30:00 GMT)
Drivers can cut the cost of insurance premiums by having their driving style constantly evalauted by a black box-style tracking device fitted to their car.
Tom Tom and Motaquote have teamed up to offer an insurance policy that's aimed at rewarding motorists who claim to be good drivers.
Policyholders will have to install a Link tracking unit and a TomTom PRO 3100 sat-nav, which will give immediate feedback on driving style, sounding a warning in the case of particularly bad behaviour.
The policy is called Fair Pay Insurance, and according to Fair Pay’s managing director, Nigel Lombard: ‘If you believe you're a good driver, we'll believe you and we'll even give you the benefit up front.’
Drivers will get a number of mileage units that can be used up by different types of driver behaviour. Harsh braking and cornering, and time spent on motorways or driving at night will all use up the units more quickly and then have an adverse effect on your insurance premium when you come to renew.
‘This is unlike some other telematics-based schemes where you may have to prove your ability over a number of months,’ said Lombard. ‘Good drivers get more for their money and in that sense they will pay ultimately less.’
The sat-nav is available to keep at the end of the policy, but holders will have to pay £299 for the two pieces of hardware to be fitted in the first place.
Tom Webster
|
Ford Focus Econetic Technology review
(Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:01:00 GMT)
The Ford Focus Econetic Technology is the most fuel-efficient conventionally powered family hatchback the world has seen. Or, put another way, it's a Focus with the same CO2 output as the cleanest Prius, better fuel economy and without a hybrid drivetrain in sight.
Ford has employed a raft of measures to make sure the Focus dips under the 90g/km of CO2 mark. Although not yet a critical tax break barrier in the UK, it is only a matter time before it becomes so.
The engine is Ford’s familiar 1.6-litre diesel, but heavily modified to reduce its internal friction and improve the efficiency of the combustion process and cooling.
Other features such as regenerative braking, improved body aerodynamics, longer gearing and low-rolling-resistance tyres help to reduce CO2 emissions by a startling 20g/km compared with the standard Focus 1.6 TDCi – despite the Econetic’s engine producing more power: 104bhp compared with 94bhp. The cleanest VW Golf has the same power, but emits an extra 10g/km of CO2.
What’s it like to drive? Rattly, at least until you’re up to speed. Despite its state-of-the-art technology, the engine actually sounds like a rather old-school diesel, especially if you try to exploit the rather modest available performance.
Once you’re up to speed it does quieten down and will happily cruise at any sensible speed, so long as you’re not on an incline. Top gear performance is quite poor thanks to the lengthened ratios, however, meaning you often have to change down a gear or two to maintain reasonable progress, defeating the point of having longer gearing in the first place.
Of course, limitations like this never show up in calculations made to determine official consumption figures.
Otherwise it is pure Focus and as capable and comfortable as that suggests.
What’s it like inside? The dashboard reveals this is no ordinary Focus. There you can call up three flower graphics whose petals illuminate according to your gear choice, anticipation and speed. It’s simple, effective, non-intrusive and encourages you to optimise your driving.
Should I buy one? The price is all-important and we won’t know that until May.
The Econetic will benefit from all tax and congestion charge exemptions, not only now, but far into the future. However, it remains to be seen whether in real-world driving it really does return over 15mpg more than the standard 1.6 diesel Focus.
The previous-generation Focus Econetic was priced at between £500 and £750 more than the car on which it was based according to model. If Ford can maintain or reduce that gap, the Econetic might make good sense for long-term, high mileage users.
Rivals:
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI Bluemotion 5dr
What Car? says…
Andrew Frankel
|
Geneva motor show 2012: Vauxhall Mokka
(Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:02:00 GMT)
The Vauxhall Mokka will be the star of Vauxhall's display at the Geneva motor show next month.
The Mokka compact SUV - a rival for cars such as the Nissan Juke and Suzuki's SX4 - has been developed in Korea, alongside a Chevrolet-badged version that will also be sold in the UK.
The Mokka is based on the same chassis as the Chevrolet Aveo; the set-up will also underpin the next generation of Corsa. It's 4.28 metres long and Vauxhall says it will seat five adults in comfort.
The Mokka will be available in front- or four-wheel-drive forms. There'll be a choice of 113bhp 1.6-litre and 138bhp 1.4-litre turbo petrol engines, or a 128bhp 1.7 CDTi diesel. All will have engine stop-start technology. A six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission will be available.
The Mokka will come with bi-xenon lighting, high-beam assist, while features such as a rear parking camera, forward collision alert (FCA) and traffic sign recognition technology will be offered as options.
Prices are yet to be revealed, but we'd expect the Mokka to be on a par with its key rivals, so a starting point of £14,000 is likely, increasing to around £20,000 for range-topping trims.
Pete Barden
|
Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost review
(Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:20:00 GMT)
The new Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost uses a tiny, three-cylinder petrol engine that replaces the 1.6-litre four-cylinder that has been a staple of the range since the car was launched in 1998.
The all-new 1.0-litre engine has many technical tricks up its sleeve, including a turbocharger that helps produce the same 123bhp as Ford’s most powerful non-turbo 1.6.
At the same time, fuel economy and CO2 emissions are improved by more than 20%.
Also, because the engine is so light, it helps the car’s weight distribution and provides more space under the bonnet for crash protection.
A detuned version with 99bhp and even better fuel consumption will also be offered.
The 1.0 Ecoboost engine is being launched in the Focus, but will go into the C-Max, Grand C-Max and forthcoming B-Max compact MPV by the end of the year.
What’s it like to drive? Extraordinary is not too strong a word.
You might expect such a small three-cylinder engine to be unrefined, but this isn't the case. Indeed, Ford’s own engineers say a Focus fitted with the 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine is the quietest of the entire range.
Outright performance feels at least a match for the 1.6, as it should given the fact it has equal power and less weight. However, it's the driveability of this engine that is most impressive.
Far from being a high-rev screamer, it delivers maximum urge at just 1300rpm and keeps on pulling strongly for longer than any diesel equivalent.
The little engine noise that can be heard is a characterful off-beat hum.
The 123bhp version is married to a slick six-speed manual gearbox, while the 99bhp version has a five-speed ‘box.
What’s it like inside? Indistinguishable from any other Focus until you fire it up and realise just how quiet it is.
The cabin isn’t as classy or spacious as a Golf hatchback's, but there’s still space for four and a square-shaped boot.
Should I buy one? The new 1.0 Ecoboost engine might sound a little odd, but you won’t get around the block before realising why Ford has ditched the 1.6 to make space for it.
There’s a premium of £500 over the equivalent 123bhp 1.6 version (although that does include a six-speed gearbox), and £250 for the 99bhp version. Given what you gain in refinement, responsiveness, fuel consumption and reduced CO2 liability, it can only be seen as a bargain.
Rivals:
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 122 Match 5dr
Vauxhall Astra 1.6 Exclusiv 5dr
What Car? says…
Andrew Frankel
|
Suzuki signs fuel-cell development deal
(Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:15:00 GMT)
Suzuki has signed a deal with a 'clean power' technology company to help develop zero-emission fuel-cell vehicles.
The joint venture between Suzuki and UK-based Intelligent Energy (IE) is called SMILE FC System Corporation. Under it, Suzuki will get access to IE's fuel-cell technology, which will be integrated into its next generation of alternatively fuelled cars.
Suzuki and IE have been working together since 2006, but the latest joint venture is designed to speed up the development and commercialisation of fuel-cell technology.
Osamu Honda, executive vice-president and representative director for Suzuki, said: 'I believe that we can accelerate the commercialisation of fuel-cell vehicles through this joint venture with Intelligent Energy.'
Pete Barden
|
Jaguar XKR-S Convertible review
(Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:01:00 GMT)
The XKR-S Convertible is the most powerful – and fastest – open-topped production car Jaguar has ever built.
At £103,000, it’s also the most expensive – costing £18,450 more than the XKR convertible on which it's based. This is our first drive of the car in the UK.
Visual changes over the standard XKR model include a deeper front bumper, re-profiled side sills and a larger-than-life carbonfibre rear wing.
The tweaks aren’t just for show either: Jaguar calculates these wind tunnel-influenced revisions, along with a 10mm drop in ride height, contribute to a 26% reduction in vertical lift. That’s reassuring to know when you consider this is a soft-top capable of hitting 186mph.
What’s it like to drive? Revisions include stiffer springs and dampers, revised steering geometry and re-calibrated electronics that control the stability control system and active rear differential.
The XKR-S also comes with a booming sports exhaust and an extra 39bhp compared with the standard car, which pushes the output from the supercharged 5.0-litre V8 to a tyre-torturing 542bhp.
As a result, performance is most definitely on the wild side, but this is not a car that responds kindly to a ‘boot it and hang on tight’ style of driving. Well, not unless you want to find yourself heading sideways in a plume of tyre smoke.
Take a more considered approach, though, and you’ll discover a car that’s full of silky feel and incredible precision.
For all its supercar ambitions, the XKR-S remains a civilised tourer, although the most pedantic of drivers will probably have issues with the firm ride and a roof that could do with a few additional layers of material to reduce wind noise at motorway speeds.
What’s it like inside? It takes a lengthy 18 seconds for the electrically powered roof to fold flat. Once it's folded, you get a great view of the XKR-S’s bespoke leather sports seats, which feature integrated headrests and racing harness cut-outs.
A three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with paddleshifters, Jaguar-embossed stainless steel pedals, carbonfibre trim and gloss black centre console enhance the car's cabin.
The XKR-S has four seats, but in reality the rear seats are only suitable for carrying additional luggage. That’s a strategy you might employ on a regular basis, because boot space is rather limited.
Should I buy one? There’s no denying the enhanced handling and outrageous performance appeal of the XK-RS, but we’d still point you in the direction of the standard XK Convertible.
It delivers 90% of the same open top thrills as the XKR-S and will save you a useful £32,000 into the bargain. Haggle hard at your nearest Jaguar dealer and chances are you’ll increase that saving to around £40K.
Rivals
Aston Martin Vantage Roadster S
Maserati Grancabrio Sport
What Car? says…
Pete Tullin
|
3 Series Convertible to keep metal roof
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:27:00 GMT)
The next BMW 3 Series Convertible will have a folding metal roof, BMW has confirmed.
BMW's 3 Series product manager Matt Collins revealed the decision was based on positive customer feedback on the current model. Customers liked the increased security, noise insulation and rigidity of the metal top.
BMW will launch variants of the new 3 Series at six-month intervals, with the Touring model due to arrive in September 2012. The convertible and coupe models - which could wear a 4 Series badge - are likely to follow in March 2013 and September 2013 respectively.
The high-performance M3 (or M4) model is expected to skip the six-month interval and arrive shortly after, because BMW wants to bring it to market as soon as possible. It will be available in coupe and convertible versions.
Tom Webster
|
BMW 3 Series: three-cylinder engines due
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:20:00 GMT)
The new BMW 3 Series could get three-cylinder engines in the next couple of years, according to BMW’s head of engine development, Peter Nefischer.
Nefischer told What Car? that BMW ‘is working on three-cylinder engines across the range, and they could make it to the 3 Series in the next couple of years'.
Engine technology has gone almost as far as possible with the current standard internal combustion engines, according to Nefischer, and that the next step is smaller units.
'Downsizing will go further, with smaller, more powerful engines,' he said. These smaller engines would be combined with turbochargers to give them the required power for a car as large as the 3 Series.
Any three-cylinder unit would be different to the one that will be used for the upcoming BMW i8 hybrid supercar, which is due to arrive in the UK in 2013. The new three-cylinder 3 Series models aren’t expected to offer an electric motor for extra power, because BMW plans to keep the majority of its hybrid projects to six-cylinder petrol models.
Three-cylinder petrol engines are common in city cars such as the VW Up. The Ford Focus 1.0 Ecoboost goes on sale later this month, and has a three-cylinder petrol engine that will also be used for larger cars such as the Grand C-Max and possibly the 2013 Ford Mondeo.
Tom Webster
|
Fiat Panda 2012 prices revealed
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:50:00 GMT)
The new Fiat Panda will cost from £8900, Fiat has announced.
The 2012 Panda is all-new; it’s longer, wider and taller than the current car, and will be available with more high-tech kit.
Entry point for the range will be the 1.2 69 Pop. At £8900 it costs £455 more than the cheapest model in the current Panda range. Standard equipment includes electric windows, central locking and four airbags.
Mid-spec Easy trim adds remote central locking, air-conditioning, roof rails and an upgraded stereo system.
Top-of-the-range Lounge models get heated electric door mirrors, alloy wheels, front foglamps and body-coloured door mirrors, door handles and side mouldings.
Stability control and a new low-speed collision-mitigation system are available as options. There are 10 exterior colours and six interior/dashboard combinations to choose from.
The new Panda will be a key rival for the VW Up 5dr and the closely related Seat Mii and Skoda Citigo.
Fiat Panda 2012 prices
1.2 69 Pop - £8900
1.3 Multijet 75 - Pop £11,100
0.9 Twinair 85 Easy - £10,750
0.9 Twinair 85 Dualogic Easy - £11,500
1.2 69 Easy - £9550
1.3 Multijet 75 Easy - £11,750
0.9 Twinair 85 Lounge - £11,250
0.9 Twinair 85 Dualogic Lounge - £12,000
1.2 69 Lounge - £10,050
1.3 Multijet Lounge - £12,250
Leo Wilkinson
|
BMW X1 sDrive20d ED review
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:50:00 GMT)
The BMW X1 sDrive20d Efficient Dynamics is BMW’s most fuel-efficient SUV yet.
It averages 62.8mpg and emits less than 120g/km of CO2, improvements of 9.0mpg and 20g/km over the regular sDrive20d.
To make these possible, there’s a new version of the 20d’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine; power falls by 14bhp to 161bhp, but you get an extra 22lb ft of torque.
A longer sixth gear means the engine is turning over at just 1700rpm at the UK motorway limit, too, while low-rolling-resistance tyres are fitted to lighter alloy wheels.
These features supplement the usual X1 economy aids: an engine stop-start system, brake energy recovery technology, active aerodynamics and a gearshift indicator.
What’s it like to drive? Good in parts.
Straight-line performance is excellent. With abundant torque, the engine is responsive, although it’s noisier than other four-cylinder BMW engines.
Do as the shift indicator advises and you’ll be making frequent use of the six-speed gearbox, particularly in urban traffic. Alas this highlights the car’s clunky gearchange and offset pedals.
The X1 steers and handles well (the sDrive part of the name signifies rear-wheel drive, whereas xDrive models are four-wheel drive), but the low-speed ride can be a bit unsettled.
Wind and road noise are well controlled.
What’s it like inside? Pedals apart, the X1 has a good driving position, with excellent all-round visibility.
While there’s generous headroom front and back, rear legroom is limited and, with the transmission tunnel taking up space, the back seats are tight for three.
The boot is a reasonable size, and the rear seats fold down for more volume.
Surprisingly for a BMW, the cabin plastics feel rather hard and cheap. However, the dashboard is well laid out and the car is competitively equipped.
Should I buy one? If you’re in the market for a compact crossover with exceptional economy, this new Efficient Dynamics version of the X1 is worth a look. Given that it’s cleaner and more economical than the similarly equipped sDrive20d SE and costs £115 less, it makes excellent financial sense.
However, impressive though the figures are, the X1’s quality and practicality disappoint. We prefer the all-round capabilities of the Audi Q3.
Rivals:
Audi Q3
Mazda CX-5
What Car? says…
Mark Pearson
|
VW Golf Cabriolet 1.4 TSI review
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:50:00 GMT)
The VW Golf Cabriolet range has expanded with this new 120bhp 1.4 TSI. It slots in between the turbocharged 1.2, and turbocharged and supercharged 1.4 petrols that have been available since launch.
With a six-speed manual gearbox, the Cabriolet averages 44.1mpg and emits a respectable 149g/km of CO2, while the optional DSG semi-auto ’box improves economy to 44.8mpg and cuts emissions to 147g/km.
What’s it like to drive? Increased wind- and road noise ensure the Cabriolet's not as quiet as the hatchback, but the engine is quiet and unobtrusive, both at tickover and while on the move.
It's not an especially quick car, but the engine revs freely up to the limiter, and will pull happily from low revs if you need a short shot of acceleration. It's strong enough, too, and never feels like it's struggling with the Golf’s weight.
Losing the hatchback's metal roof inevitably affects rigidity and there's the odd shudder when the Cabriolet hits sharp bumps. However, the ride is mostly comfortable and the steering remains consistent and reassuring.
What’s it like inside? Top-down refinement is impressive when the wind blocker is fitted – not so impressive is the fact that it renders the rear seats unusable.
The boot holds just 250 litres, but you can drop the rear seats to boost loadspace to a more usable capacity.
The dashboard is smart and well laid out, and there’s plenty of sea- and steering wheel adjustment to help you get comfortable.
Should I buy one? If you want a drop-top to excite your senses, then we'd suggest you look elsewhere. However, the Golf Cabriolet is a classy and comfortable choice, and this new 1.4-litre model is the best version yet, thanks to its balance of performance, refinement and affordability.
Rivals:
Audi A3 Cabriolet
BMW 1 Series Convertible
What Car? says…
Tom Webster
|
Skoda Fabia 1.4 MPI SE review
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:50:00 GMT)
The Skoda Fabia 1.4 MPI SE is a new special-edition version of Skoda’s supermini. Buy between now and March 31 and you’ll pay just £8995 – that’s Kia Picanto money for a much bigger car.
There are just three colours to choose from: red, white or blue. However, you do get a surprising amount of standard kit, including air-conditioning and alloy wheels.
What’s it like to drive? This special-edition Fabia has an 85bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine. It pulls willingly enough from a standstill, and revs freely if you need to build pace quickly. It isn’t the quietest of engines, though, and fuel economy of 47.9mpg is below par by today’s high standards.
The suspension is set up for comfort rather than driving thrills, so the Fabia easily mops up potholes and speed humps. The drawback is that faster, undulating roads cause the Fabia to pitch and sway.
The Skoda's light, precise controls and tight turning circle mean it excels in the city.
It remains composed at motorway speeds, although the lack of a sixth gear means the engine is working fairly hard at 70mph.
What’s it like inside? The Fabia sits at the bigger end of the supermini class, so there’s a decent amount of space inside. Even six-footers won’t complain about the amount of leg- or headroom in the back.
The boot is deep and well shaped, and easily capable of accommodating a pushchair or your weekly shopping. Split-folding rear seats give you the option of a bigger loadbay if you need it.
Both front seats can be raised and lowered, and the steering wheel adjusts for height and reach, which makes it easy to get comfortable behind the wheel. However, the whole interior looks desperately dull, and the dashboard plastics aren’t as dense or nicely textured as those in a Ford Fiesta or a Volkswagen Polo.
At least the important controls are simple and logically laid out, and there’s a good view out of the front thanks to skinny windscreen pillars.
This special-edition Fabia is available only in SE trim, which means you get alloy wheel, air-conditioning, remote central locking, electric front windows, powered and heated door mirrors and four airbags. That should be enough for most buyers, which is just as well because you can’t add any options.
Should I buy one? If a city car won’t cut it for size and your budget doesn’t stretch north of £9000, this special edition Fabia is as good as it gets.
True, the Skoda is starting to show its age; the cabin is dated and the engine isn’t particularly refined. At this price, though, you really can’t complain – especially considering the generous amount of standard equipment.
We only wish Skoda had decided to offer stability control as an option. That would make this Fabia a safer option for the young drivers its low price will attract.
Rivals:
Chevrolet Aveo 1.2 LS (£8995*)
Suzuki Swift 1.2 SZ2 5dr (£9275*)
* Special offers available until March 31
What Car? says…
Will Nightingale
|
Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet 1.4 TSI review
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:50:00 GMT)
The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet range has expanded with this; a new 1.4 TSI model that has a 120bhp 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine. This slots between the turbocharged 1.2 and turbocharged and supercharged 1.4 petrols that have been available since launch.
With a six-speed manual gearbox, the new model averages 44.1mpg and emits a relatively low 149g/km of CO2, while the optional DSG semi-auto ’box improves those to 44.8mpg and 147g/km.
What’s it like to drive? Naturally, the driving experience isn't as serene as in a Golf hatchback, with road and wind noise more noticeable, but the engine doesn’t add to this in the way a diesel might; it’s quiet and unobtrusive, both at tickover and on the move.
This isn’t an especially quick car, but the engine revs freely up to the limiter, and will pull happily from low revs when you need a short dart of acceleration. It never feels as though it's struggling with the Golf’s weight.
Losing the hatch’s fixed metal roof inevitably has an effect on the overall body rigidity, and there is the odd shudder when the Golf Cabriolet hits sharper bumps. However, the ride is generally comfortable and the steering is much the same as the hatch’s – consistent and reassuring.
What’s it like inside? Top-down refinement is impressive when the wind blocker is fitted, but it's large and cumbersome, and prevents you from using the rear seats.
With the blocker removed, the Cabriolet is a genuine four-seater. Unfortunately, you then have to put up with a lot of roof-down buffeting at motorway speeds.
It’s unlikely that four will be able to go away for the weekend together, because the boot holds just 250 litres; a couple of suitcases is its limit. On the up side, it’s possible to drop the rear seats to boost this load space to a more useful capacity.
The dashboard is smart and well laid out, and there’s plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustment to help you get comfortable.
Should I buy one? If you want a drop-top that will excite your senses, you should probably look elsewhere. However, the Golf Cabriolet is a classy and comfortable choice, and this new 1.4-litre model is the best version yet, thanks to its balance of performance, refinement and affordability.
Rivals:
Audi A3 Cabriolet
BMW 1 Series Convertible
What Car? says…
Tom Webster
|
BMW 3 Series review
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:50:00 GMT)
With the all-new 3 Series, BMW has taken a great car and replaced it with an even better one.
The 3 Series is not only more efficient, economical and affordable to run than its predecessor, it’s also the most enjoyable car in its class to drive. This is our first drive of UK-spec models.
At launch you can choose from a single diesel model – the 320d – and two petrols – the 328i and 335i. However, 316d and 318d diesels and a 320i petrol will join the line-up in March.
What’s it like to drive? BMW has certainly succeeded in its aim of creating a great driver’s car.
The steering is fantastically responsive and consistently well weighted, giving you confidence on twisty back roads and motorways alike.
The ride quality is superbly composed, too; the suspension deals with most of the challenges a pockmarked road can throw at it. Even the firmer settings of the optional M Sport suspension don’t make life too uncomfortable, and they improve body control through corners.
The 320d engine that will be popular with corporate buyers offers a fantastic combination of pace, power and economy. It's recognisably a diesel at standstill, but the engine noise seems to melt away on the move; there’s even an enjoyable growl from under the bonnet at times.
The wind noise from the door mirrors is more of an issue, but it is never intrusive enough to be irritating.
While the 320d should be capable of an impressive 61.4mpg, it has plenty of pace when asked to accelerate at speed, with no obvious delay in the power delivery.
What’s it like inside? The 3 Series range has expanded to include three new trims – Sport, Luxury and Modern.
These allow you to add a selection of – largely cosmetic – kit to SE spec. Whether Sport and Modern are worth the extra £1000 for different wheels, upholstery, a sports steering wheel and upgraded interior trim is down to personal taste, because the regular SE cabin is already attractive enough.
Only the 316d model will be offered in a cheaper ES trim, but we reckon the extra kit that you get on SE cars - reversing sensors, two-zone climate control and automatic headlights and wipers - makes them worth the £850 premium.
The biggest irritation in the interior is the rather fiddly manual seat adjustment, but all of the other controls are simple to use, and there’s now enough rear space to keep six-footers happy.
Should I buy one? If you’re in the market for a compact executive saloon, the new 3 Series should be at the top of your list. A luxurious interior, fantastic handling and supremely refined engines make it a great all round proposition.
Rivals:
Audi A4
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
What Car? says…
Tom Webster
|
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI Cabriolet review
(Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:50:00 GMT)
The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet range has expanded with this: a new 1.4 TSI model with has a 120bhp 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine. This slots between the turbocharged 1.2 and turbocharged and supercharged 1.4 that have been available since launch.
With a six-speed manual gearbox, the new model averages 44.1mpg and emits a relatively low 149g/km of CO2, while the optional DSG semi-auto ’box improves that to 44.8mpg and 147g/km.
What’s it like to drive? Naturally, the driving experience is not as serene as in a metal-topped Golf, with road and wind noise more noticeable, but the engine doesn’t add to this in the way a diesel might; it’s quiet and unobtrusive, both at tickover and on the move.
This isn’t an especially quick car, but the engine revs freely up to the limiter, and will pull happily from low revs when you need a short dart of acceleration. It never feels as though it is struggling with the Golf’s weight.
Losing the hatch’s fixed metal roof inevitably has an effect on the overall body rigidity, and there is the odd shudder when the Golf Cabriolet hits sharper bumps. However, the ride is generally comfortable and the steering is much the same as the hatch’s – consistent and reassuring.
What’s it like inside? Top-down refinement is impressive when the wind blocker is fitted, but its large and cumbersome nature is a downside, as is the fact it prevents you from using the rear seats.
With the blocker removed, the Cabriolet is a genuine four-seater. Unfortunately, you then have to put up with a lot of roof-down buffeting at motorway speeds.
It’s unlikely that four will be able to go away for the weekend together, because the boot is not that large at only 250 litres; a couple of suitcases is its limit. On the up side, it’s possible to drop the rear seats to boost this load space to a more useful capacity.
Further forward, the dashboard is smart and well laid out, and there’s plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustment to help the driver get comfortable.
Should I buy one? If you want a drop-top that will excite your senses, you should probably look elsewhere. However, the Golf cabriolet is a classy and comfortable choice, and this new 1.4-litre model is the best version yet, thanks to its balance of performance, refinement and affordability.
Rivals:
Audi A3 Cabriolet
BMW 1 Series Convertible
What Car? says…
Tom Webster
|
New car sales rise in January
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:12:00 GMT)
New car sales stabilised in January, with an increase of 0.03% compared with the same period in 2011.
A rise in private sales – up by 2.7% on January 2011 – helped to boost the market, while further growth in the fleet sector also buoyed sales.
Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) also revealed that demand for diesel cars continues to drive the market. Diesel power increased its market share to 53.7% in January, compared with 50.5% a year ago.
Registrations of alternatively fuelled vehicles were also on the up – recording a 17.6% increase. Such cars now account for 1.6% of the market.
Once again, the best-selling car was the Ford Fiesta, while four of the top 10 cars were superminis.
The SMMT cut its full-year forecast for 2012 to 1.92 million new registrations, a 1.1% fall on the 1.94 million total achieved in 2011. However, the organisation believes new, more-efficient products will help the market recover to sales of 1.98 million in 2013.
SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: '2012 is set to be an exciting year with record numbers of new models coming to market filled with innovative technology that will save the motorist fuel, enhance comfort and further increase levels of safety and security.’
Top 10 sellers: source SMMT
Pete Barden
|
Kia Track'ster concept car unveiled
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:30:00 GMT)
This is the Kia Track'ster concept car, which will be unveiled at the Chicago motor show next week.
The Track'ster is the latest concept car to be based on the Soul.
Kia describes the Track'ster concept car as the 'ultimate sporting representation' of the Soul. The three-door Track'ster could eventually be added to a Soul range alongside the five-door model and a convertible version that's currently under evaluation.
Kia says there are no plans to put the Track'ster into production, but a US launch would make sense, with more than 100,000 Souls sold there in 2011.
New teaser shot released
Ahead of its debut at this week’s 2012 Chicago motor show, Kia has released the first image of its Track’ster concept car.
Pete Barden
|
Nissan Invitation concept revealed
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:11:00 GMT)
This is the Nissan Invitation, a Geneva motor show concept car designed to preview a new small model from the Japanese manufacturer. The concept is a high-roofed, five-door model.
The company says it will be launched in the UK sometime in 2013, and that it will be sold alongside the Nissan Juke and Nissan Micra – in effect, making the Invitation a preview of the next-generation Nissan Note.
As such, the Invitation’s stance looks familiar – although its more pronounced surfacing on its flanks and the stronger shoulder line make it look more dramatic than the simple Note.
Nissan claims the production version of the car will use a lightweight platform, helping to improve its fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. It claims the greenest variant will dip beneath the 100g/km barrier, taking it into the tax-exempt Band A.
The company also says the concept features an Around View Monitor, the first time it has been seen on a vehicle of this size. It uses cameras to show the driver the full surroundings and is designed to make reversing and parking easier and safer.
The cabin images reveal extensive use of digital displays, including a central infotainment system and a sophisticated-looking ventilation control. These elements are likely to be toned down for the Note – traditionally one of the more keenly priced models in Nissan’s range – although the concept’s simple, uncluttered dashboard layout looks production-ready.
John McIlroy
|
Honda reveals 'Earth Dream' engine
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:16:00 GMT)
Honda will reveal an ultra-efficient 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine at the Geneva motor show next month.
As part of the car maker's 'Earth Dreams' technology programme, the engine is the first of a new generation of powerplants that will first appear in the Honda Civic.
Honda says the 118bhp 1.6-litre engine is the lightest in its class, and will have sub-100g/km CO2 emissions, along with class-leading performance and economy.
Alongside the 'Earth Dreams' engine, Honda will also display a prototype European version of the its CR-V replacement. The new, more aggressive-looking car will succeed the current car in the autumn.
The car maker's NSX Concept will also be at the Geneva show, where it will make its European debut. It will also mark the first time that it gets NSX badging – it appeared at last month's Detroit motor show with Acura livery. It is expected to go on sale by 2015.
Two new Jazz derivatives will be on display, too: the Jazz Si – with sporty suspension and tweaked styling – and the Jazz 1.2 Idle Stop, which cuts CO2 by 3g/km compared with the standard 1.2 car.
Pete Barden
|
Geneva 2012: Honda 'Earth Dream' engine
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:16:00 GMT)
Honda will reveal a new ultra-efficient 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine at the Geneva motor show next month.
As part of the car maker's 'Earth Dreams' technology programme, the engine is the first of a new generation of powerplants that will first appear in the Honda Civic.
Honda says the 118bhp 1.6-litre engine is the lightest in its class, and will have sub-100g/km CO2 emissions, along with class-leading performance and economy.
Alongside the 'Earth Dreams' engine, Honda will also display a prototype European version of the its CR-V replacement. The new, more aggressive-looking car will succeed the current car in the autumn.
The car maker's NSX Concept will also be at the Geneva show, where it will make its European debut. It will also mark the first time that it gets NSX badging – it appeared at last month's Detroit motor show with Acura livery. It is expected to go on sale by 2015.
Two new Jazz derivatives will be on display, too: the Jazz Si – with sporty suspension and tweaked styling – and the Jazz 1.2 Idle Stop, which cuts CO2 by 3g/km compared with the standard 1.2 car.
Pete Barden
|
Land Rover reveals Range Rover specials
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:10:00 GMT)
Land Rover has marked 10 years of the current-generation Range Rover by revealing three new special editions of the luxury 4x4.
The Range Rover Westminster takes the place of the previous TDV8 Vogue and Vogue SE models. It will cost from £69,995 and will go on sale in March.
Upgrades include a special 'Noble' finish to the front grille and front side vents, a 'Titan' silver splitter bar and foglamp surrounds. It also gets new 20-inch alloys with unique Westminster badging.
There are special carpets and Grand Black trim, while an upgraded audio system, and heated and cooled seats are also included as standard.
The Westminster comes in a choice of seven exterior, and five interior, colours.
The 4.4 TDV8 Autobiography and 5.0 V8 Supercharged Autobiography special editions come with the Range Rover Design Pack, which comprises new front and rear bumpers, ‘Titan’ silver front grille and side vent and foglamp surrounds, along with integrated stainless steel tailpipes and sideskirts. The cars also get 20-inch alloys in Shadow Chrome.
Inside, the Autobiography cars get the Range Rover Seat Style Pack as standard. This brings rear seats with recline and lumbar adjustment, heating and cooling, and multi-adjustable aircraft-style headrests with wings for added support. The front passenger seat can also be pushed forward using the ‘front seat away’ function to improve rear legroom.
Autobiography models go on sale in March. Prices for the TDV8 version start from £84,295, with the Supercharged model at £86,895.
Pete Barden
|
Seat Mii 5dr revealed
(Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT)
This is the Seat Mii 5dr – a more versatile version of the city car that's closely related to the Skoda Citigo and VW Up.
The three-door version of the Seat Mii goes on sale in May, while this five-door variant arrives in the winter.
Viewed from the side, the Seat Mii 5dr is almost identical to the VW Up 5dr and Skoda Citigo 5dr. It has the same front- and rear styling as the three-door Mii, and the same dimensions.
Volkswagen will charge a £375 premium for the Up 5dr, compared with the three-door model, so we’d expect a similar increase for the Mii 5dr. This means prices should start at around £7900.
Leo Wilkinson
|
Our latest reviews: 06/02/12
(Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:17:00 GMT)
Read all of our latest car reviews here on whatcar.com. From all-new cars to the smallest tweak to an existing model, our road test team will evaluate and report.
This is where you can find all the whatcar.com test drives we've published over the past week.
You'll also be able to read all of our new nine-point reviews, too, along with any that have received major updates. Make this your one-stop guide to the latest model news.
If that's not enough, use the dropdown menu at the foot of this page to read the top 10 reviews in each category of car.Latest reviews Alfa Giulietta TCTThe Giulietta is available with a new TCT twin-clutch semi-automatic gearbox. Alfa Giulietta TCT review BMW Active Hybrid 5The Hybrid 5 is based on the 5 Series saloon, and is the first BMW hybrid in right-hand-drive form. BMW Active Hybrid 5 review Mercedes B-ClassWe take a test drive in Merc's new B-Class - a premium-priced rival to the Ford Focus and VW Golf. Mercedes B-Class review Mercedes SLK 250 CDIThe SLK 250 CDI shrugs off its comfortable tourer role to offer a credible rival for Audi's TT TDI. Mercedes SLK 250 CDI review Mini RoadsterFind out what we think of the Mini Roadster - a new soft-top version of the new Mini Coupe. Mini Roadster review New VW Golf prototypesWe drive prototypes of a Golf plug-in hybrid and the all-electric Golf Blue e-motion. VW Golf prototype review VW Polo ACTWe test the VW Polo ACT, which uses shut-off technology to help improve economy and cut CO2. VW Polo ACT review
Latest nine-point web reviews Chevrolet AveoA very respectable supermini, but can it trouble the best cars in this ultra-competitive class? Read all about it here. Chevrolet Aveo review Vauxhall Zafira TourerThe Vauxhall Zafira Tourer is a decent MPV, but is it as practical, refined and easy to live with as its best rivals? Vauxhall Zafira Tourer review
Our most-searched reviewsUse the dropdown menu, below, to view our most popular reviews in each category of car.
Pete Barden
|
What Car? Magazine Online is the UK's best source of expert, impartial advice on all aspects of buying, owning and selling cars.
What Car? News
Copyright: (C) What Car?, http://www.whatcar.com/terms
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|