Renault will pull the covers off its new Megane Sport Tourer – in the form of the Megane Sport Tourer GT – at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show.
Based on the new Megane, this all-new Sport Tourer features an ‘intuitive, modular interior’ including 4CONTROL technology. Specifically tailored to the new Megane Sport Tourer, 4CONTROL endows the car with precise, dynamic handling on twisty roads and ‘generates genuine driving pleasure’. The car also has a choice of boot arrangements, as well as the segment’s longest maximum load length, says Renault.
The design of the new Megane Sport Tourer ‘blends dynamism and style’, and is enhanced by a chrome trim around the side windows and C-pillar. The roof line is enhanced by matte-finish anodised aluminium roof bars (Dark Metal Colour on GT version). The car’s low stance and wide track increase the feeling of solidity on the road according to Renault.
The French company says Renault Sport DNA is evident with the front bumper underlining the model’s sporting credentials, while the honeycomb mesh of the radiator grilles is specific to the car and the wide lower air inlet is flanked by two air-scoops. At the rear, the new Megane Sport Tourer GT is fitted with a chromed exhaust tail pipe and a sculpted diffuser to reinforce its dynamic look.
Maserati has unveiled its first ever SUV - the Levante - ahead of a Geneva Motor Show debut.
Completing the existing range of saloon and sports cars, the Levante’s ‘aggressive front’ introduces new tapered headlights separated into two elements, with the upper headlight unit connected to the radiator grille. Maserati's design signature is visible on the sides with the three iconic air vents on the front wings, the trapezoidal C-pillar with the “Saetta” logo and the large, frameless door windows. The rear is dominated by the tapered back window and streamlined shape, both typical of a high-performance sports car, says Maserati.
The chassis is designed to combine ‘outstanding on-road performance’ even on very low-grip surfaces with ‘an excellent off-road performance and ride’. All versions feature sophisticated electronic suspension with controlled damping and air springs, which can be set on several levels, “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive and 8-speed automatic transmission, specially calibrated for the brand's new SUV. The Levante will be powered by both petrol and diesel engines that are all Euro6-compliant.
Built at the Mirafiori plant in Turin; the first cars have already come off the assembly line with the launch planned for this spring in Europe, to be followed by the rest of the world later this year.
Volvo has revealed plans to become the world’s first automotive manufacturer to offer cars without keys.
From 2017 Volvo customers will be offered a smartphone app to replace the physical key with a digital key. The Bluetooth-enabled digital key technology will offer more flexibility, and will enable owners to benefit from entirely new way to use and share cars.
The new Volvo app enables the digital key on the customer’s mobile phone to do everything a physical key currently does, such as locking or unlocking the doors or the boot and allowing the engine to be started. This new technology will also offer customers the possibility to receive more than one digital key on their app, allowing them to access different Volvo cars in different locations – ‘according to their changing mobility needs’. Owners will be able to send their digital key to other people via their mobile phones so they can also use the car. This may be to family members, friends or co-workers in a company.
Using the app, people could potentially book and pay for a rental car anywhere in the world and have the digital car key delivered to their phone immediately. On arrival, a customer could simply locate the rental car via GPS, unlock it and drive away, avoiding the queues at car rental desks.
Volvo will pilot this technology in spring 2016 via its car-sharing firm Sunfleet, stationed at Gothenburg airport, Sweden. A limited number of commercially available cars will be equipped with the new digital key technology in 2017, while the Swedish brand is also keen to stress physical keys will continue to be offered for people who want them.
The keyless car technology will be shown for the first time at the Mobile World Congress 2016 (22-25 February) in Barcelona.
Audi has confirmed the new A4 Avant will cost from £27,300 OTR.
On sale form today the new A4 Avant is built on an all-new platform which results in a ‘class-leading’ 505 litres of luggage capacity – extending to 1,510 litres with the seats folded – into an interior that now affords more head and shoulder room for front seat occupants and increased overall rear leg room compared to its predecessor.
Prices ranging from the aforementioned £27,300 OTR for the A4 Avant 1.4 TFSI up to £40,350 OTR for the range-topping A4 Avant 3.0 V6 TDI quattro.
The Avant engine line-up will initially include a choice of 2.0 litre and 3.0-litre TDI engines with outputs starting from 150PS and rising to 272PS, mated to redeveloped six-speed manual, seven-speed S tronic and eight-speed tiptronic transmissions.
Standard equipment highlights include 17-inch alloy wheels, Xenon or LED headlights with LED DRLs, Audi smartphone interface, Audi drive select, three-zone climate control and 7-inch colour MMI monitor.
As in the Saloon, two versions of the 2.0-litre TDI engine with 150PS and 190PS power a total of 12 front-wheel-driven ‘ultra’ variants offering up to 70.6mpg with CO2 output of as low as 104g/km. The V6 TDI contingent starts with the 218PS version returns up to 64.2mpg with a 114g/km CO2 output when combined with Sport specification and front-wheel-drive.
The agility of the five-link fully independent front and rear suspension can be ‘amplified further’ by adding a more intelligent and faster-reacting evolution of quattro all-wheel-drive as an option for 2.0 TDI 190 and 3.0 TDI 218 engines. The purely mechanical system with its self-locking centre differential is also a standard feature of the 2.0 TFSI 252PS and 3.0 TDI 272PS versions.
Launched in 2013, the new frontal appearance now takes on an even more ‘assertive, powerful and appealing SUV design’ according to the French company. Its wheel arch extensions (from Allure level), new vertical front grille and scuff plates (from Allure level) ‘confirm its robustness’. The new vertical multi-faceted front grille features the Peugeot lion at the centre which Peugeot says gives a dynamic and attractive appearance. This style approach continues from the grille over the bonnet and onto the roof with roof bars and spoiler completing the new profile. Black and chrome headlamps and 3D LED rear lights with 3-claw design 'illustrate the embedded technology from the outside'.
The new Ultimate Red colour further ‘epitomises the power and desirability’ of the new 2008. The Access, Active and Allure levels are complemented by the new ‘GT Line’ model. This trim level is already popular on other Peugeot models (208, 308 and 508), and adds a sporty theme with a red/black coloured interior theme and is consistent with the brand's move up market strategy.
The Peugeot i-Cockpit is unique to Peugeot and ‘embodies the driving characteristics of the Peugeot 2008’ - being ‘agile, intuitive and safe’. The compact sports steering wheel offers precise steering and improved manoeuvrability while the 7” multifunction colour touch screen puts all the functionality at your fingertips. In addition, the head-up instrument panel allows driver information to be accessed without taking the eyes off the road.
Grip Control - an adapted traction system - gives the 2008 its versatility on all types of terrain. It is combined with Mud & Snow (all-Season) certified winter tyres. Peugeot 2008 is equipped with MirrorScreen, based on MirrorLink and Apple Carplay, along with the reversing camera, Active City Brake and Park Assist - a rarity in this segment.
The petrol range of the new 2008 includes a choice of five engines while the Diesel line-up includes three engines, all of them with CO2 emissions at less than 100g/km.
Pricing has yet to be confirmed for the faceifted model, with the revamped 2008 set to go on sale this summer.
Launched in Stockholm, the estate car is the latest in Volvo’s top-of-the-line 90 series, sitting alongside the XC90 SUV and the recently launched S90 premium saloon.
Building on Volvo Cars’ heritage in the estate segment, which began more than 60 years ago with the Volvo Duett, the new V90 ‘takes the premium estate a clear step forward’ in terms of aesthetics, materials and finish, says the Swedish brand.
“We have a very strong position in the estate segment,” said Hakan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive of Volvo Cars. “In many people’s minds we are known as the definitive estate brand. While the Volvo brand today stands for more than estates, we are proud to carry forward this rich heritage with the V90.”
“The modern premium estate is all about the intriguing combination of a luxurious experience with the functional origins of the estate silhouette. The sophisticated ambience of our new Volvo interiors is combined with a great cargo space, providing the right kind of functionality – whether through connectivity or cargo and storage solutions,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President for Design at Volvo Cars.
The new V90 features Pilot Assist semi-autonomous drive technology, the ‘most advanced’ standard safety package on the market, including Large Animal Detection and Run-off Road Mitigation, as well as 'class-leading' connectivity, including smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay.
Volvo also says it has also worked on driving dynamics for the new model, to deliver a totally new and refined driving experience ‘characterised by a sense of engaging control and predictability’.
“We have a very strong offer in the V90. Our PowerPulse technology is designed to deliver a distinct performance boost to our diesel engine, while the T8 Twin Engine petrol plug-in hybrid will deliver around 410 hp and a pure electric range of around 31 miles,” said Dr Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President of Research & Development at Volvo Cars.
Skoda has revealed images of the new VisionS show car.
Hinting at a future SUV design language, the VisionS is influenced by Czech Cubism and the tradition of Bohemian crystal art with the contoured surfaces accentuated further by the Island-Green colour.
Based on the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB), this is Skoda’s first vehicle to feature six seats across three rows. The concept powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain with 165 kW (225 hp) and a 0-62mph time of 7.4 seconds.
The internal combustion engine is a 1.4 TSI with 115 kW (156 hp) and 250 Nm of torque. This works alongside an e-motor that provides 40 kW of 40 kW continuous power and 220 Nm peak torque. It is integrated into the six-speed DSG, which directs the power to the front wheels. A second electric motor with up to 85 kW and 270 Nm of torque drives the rear axle.
The VisionS features large displays for vehicle and infotainment services for all passengers, who can connect to the network several ways from each seat in the vehicle.
The VisionS will be formally unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
SsangYong will reveal a new extended Tivoli XLV at the Geneva Motor Show.
Providing more carrying capacity and practicality, the Tivoli XLV was shown as the XLV Air concept in Frankfurt last year, and following ‘extremely favourable feedback’ the company has decided put the car into production.
Sharing the same platform as the Tivoli, the XLV features a lengthened body from behind the C pillar, an increase of 235mm over the standard car, expanding the load capacity to 720 cubic litres of space. Meanwhile, the styling cues that distinguish Tivoli are retained. It will be offered with a choice of a Euro 6 compliant 1.6 litre petrol or 1.6 litre diesel engines, mated to the option of a 6-speed manual transmission or 6-speed Aisin automatic, two-wheel drive or four wheel drive. UK specification is yet to be determined.
SsangYong will also showcase a SIV-2 concept (Smart Interface Vehicle) midsize premium SUV at the show. As the next iteration on from the SIV-1 concept which was shown at Geneva in 2013, this takes a step further under the design concept of ‘Dynamic Motion’.
Based on SsangYong’s development theme of ‘Robust, Specialty, Premium’, this new concept pursues the emotional interface between the driver and car, and will evolve to become a key strategic model within the SsangYong range.
The SIV-2 is a mild hybrid, powered by a 1.5 litre direct injection turbocharged petrol engine combined with a 10kW electric motor-generator and a 500Wh lithium ion battery. This creates a 48V mild hybrid system which offers quiet and efficient driving, reduced CO2 emissions and silent running when idling and at slow speeds.
This eco-friendly concept features a lightweight body, a low centre of gravity and a chassis and suspension system that can be further developed to create alternative models with high efficiency powertrains such as HEV, PHEV and EV.
SEAT has revealed its first ever SUV - the Ateca - in Barcelona.
Deriving its name from a village in the west of Zaragoza, the Ateca is said to combine distinctive design, dynamic driving fun, urban versatility and compelling utility.
Launching in the UK this September, it will be available with a choice of turbocharged TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines spanning from 115 PS to 190 PS, with either front-wheel or all-wheel-drive, mated to manual or dual-clutch DSG transmissions.
An array of technology options extends from full-LED headlights through a series of assistance systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist, right through to a package of high-endinfotainment systems with eight-inch touchscreens and Full Link connectivity.
At 4.36 metres in length, the Ateca offers seating for five and a boot capacity of 510 litres, or 485- in versions with all-wheel-drive.
“The SEAT Ateca is perfect for an urban lifestyle. It possesses stunning design and dynamics, and boasts compelling quality and utility. But above all, the Ateca exudes unmistakable character,” says Luca de Meo, President of SEAT, S.A. “Our first SUV marks the start of a new era for SEAT. The Ateca is a clear development of the Leon DNA and will drive forward the success of the range. SEAT is a brand on the move.”
Vauxhall's facelifted Mokka X will debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show next month.
Incorporating cues from Vauxhall's new design philosophy, the new model is the first to introduce the "X" segment identifier for future Vauxhall SUV and crossover vehicles.
The Mokka X's refreshed interior and exterior styling is the work of a design team lead by Brit Mark Adams. A new front treatment includes a wing-shaped horizontal grille and the sharp double-wing design LED daytime running lights. The bumper features new sculpted surfaces, with fewer plastic inserts, while at the rear there's another double wing signature highlighted in the tail lamps, with LED technology an option.
On the inside, there's a completely new dashboard inspired by the Astra's, with a new instrument panel organised around more horizontally shaped elements. The centre stack has been redeveloped around the seven- and eight-inch touchscreens of the new generation infotainment systems. There are fewer buttons, since more functions are now accessible via the touchscreen.
The engine line-up now includes the 1.4-litre Direct Injection Turbo (152PS) petrol unit which first appeared in the all-new Astra. With a six-speed automatic transmission, adaptive all-wheel drive and start/stop, it delivers 42.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 154g/km.
The new Mokka X will be available from launch with the personal connectivity and service assistant OnStar and two versions of the new generation IntelliLink infotainment system, while LED Adaptive Forward Lighting headlamps replace the previous BiXenon AFL.
With nearly 100,000 sold in the UK since its launch in 2012, the Mokka SUV has been a big winner for Vauxhall. The new version will reach UK showrooms late this year.
Production of the MINI Clubman ALL4 – the brand’s first all-wheel drive model for the C-segment - has begun.
The launch marks the brand’s advance into the premium compact segment with the first ALL4 model to be built at MINI Plant Oxford. The ALL4 all-wheel drive system, which has previously only been offered on MINI Countryman models, has been specially redeveloped to ‘ensure sportier handling and improved versatility to further enhance the everyday practicality’ according to MINI. The all-wheel drive system includes electrohydraulic regulation, optimised weight and increased efficiency.
Powered by the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine offering 192 hp, the new Cooper S Clubman ALL4's engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission as standard, and optionally with an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. It achieves fuel consumption of 40.9 mpg with the manual transmission (44.8mpg for automatic transmission) and has CO2 emissions of 159g/km (146g/km). The Cooper SD Clubman ALL4 is powered by a 190 hp diesel engine with 400 NM of torque which is paired with the brand’s 8-speed Steptronic transmission as standard. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 58.9mpg with CO2 emissions of 126g/km.
The new model features what MINI describes as ‘an exceptionally high specification’, including Satellite Navigation as standard on all models. Furthermore, every Clubman ALL4 gets the MINI Excitement Package as standard, which features a projection of the brand logo on to the ground beneath the driver’s side door mirror when the car is opened and closed, as well as extended interior lighting.
The new MINI Clubman ALL4 is expected in showrooms this April, priced from £24,305 OTR.
Vauxhall's all-new Brit-built Astra Sports Tourer has undergone extreme climate testing to enable it to cope with the coldest of winters or the warmest of summers.
A stock production model was subjected to conditions comparable to the Sahara desert at Vauxhall/Opel's International Technical Development Centre (ITDC) in Russelsheim, Germany. In the middle of winter, the mercury was at 60 degrees Celsius and the sweat was pouring.
One day later, same place, same time: the Astra Sports Tourer was wrapped up in a white outfit covered with a thin layer of ice. The vehicle's interior was not visible from the outside, as the windows were completely frozen over as the temperature dropped to -40 degrees.
"We want to see how the materials in the Sports Tourer react to extreme conditions. We also check if its appearance changes and if extreme heat or cold have an effect on, for example, gap width," explains Otto Hemmelmann, Lead Engineer Test Methods, "After all, our customers around the world drive the Astra in all different climate zones."
The heat and cold test bench, also called thermal cycling testing, is part of the compulsory program in Vauxhall vehicle development, just like the acoustic and electronic lab tests.
During the two-week phase, temperatures changed daily. "Sealing, bonding, plastic parts and materials, rubber, all this has to work properly, meaning constant elastic constricting and stretching like a rubber band, without bearing any traces of it," explains the Chief Engineer.
Even direct sunlight can be simulated in the climatic chamber. "If the Sports Tourer is parked outside in the summer, interior temperatures can reach 90 degrees," says Hemmelmann. With the help of the sun simulation, the team tests the interior materials' stress tolerance. "But we also test how long the air conditioner has to be on until the temperature is bearable again." In addition, the so-called four-post test bench moves the Sports Tourer up and down under its wheels to test whether comfort in the car is compromised under extreme conditions and to ensure the interior materials don't squeak or rattle during driving despite high strain and stress.
After the hot/cold treatment, Vauxhall engineers look at the Sports Tourer through the customer's eyes and analyse any differences. "We look at what impression the car makes on us and take measurements to determine if anything has become distorted or misaligned," says Hemmelmann.
Only once all components, body and add-on parts are tested and cleared is the Astra Sports Tourer deemed to be fit for purpose and ready for sale.
The Volvo XC90 SUV has received the 2015 Euro NCAP Best in Class award for both Large Off-Road and Overall Performance categories.
The XC90 achieved overall top performance in the 2015 Euro NCAP ratings, scoring 100 per cent in the Safety Assist category, and 97 per cent in adult occupant protection.
Jan Ivarsson, Acting Director, Volvo Cars Safety Centre said; “We are always happy to receive further recognition for the work we do. The XC90 embodies everything that Volvo Cars stands for, and this is further proof of our continuing leadership in the field of both active and passive safety systems. Our vision is that by 2020 no-one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car. With the latest safety and semi-autonomous drive functionalities in the XC90, we are well on our way to fulfilling that vision.”
Sales of the XC90 continue to outpace production capacity, with 2015 seeing overall Volvo sales reach an all-time high, with more than 503,000 cars sold.
Kia has pulled the covers off its new Telluride SUV.
Revealed at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) the concept is a three-row, seven-passenger, luxury hybrid SUV featuring an upright shape, muscular stance, and state-of-the-art technology to care for its occupants. Based on an existing platform, the concept shows the brand’s interest in ‘potentially offering a premium SUV positioned above the current Sorento’.
The Telluride’s front doors and rear-hinged back doors swing open 90 degrees in opposing directions revealing four black-leather ‘captain’s seats’ that appear to float within the spacious cabin, in front of a folded third-row bench. The large cabin allows the middle seats to recline nearly flat and include large fold-away footrests for added comfort.
All four seats include a series of diamond-cut openings in the seatback, each embedded with Smart Sensors to capture a passenger’s vital health information. Once obtained, these vitals are displayed on the interior door panel screens, which then systematically synchronise with a Light Emitted Rejuvenation (LER) system. The LER system utilises a massive, wing-shaped LED panel mounted beneath the oversized sunroof that displays a pattern of therapeutic light to treat desynchronosis (jetlag) and improve the passengers’ energy levels.
Another new technology introduced in concept is Swipe Command – a thin, touch-sensitive, interactive band mounted to the second row centre console – which allows rear-seat passengers to quickly scroll and select desired media by simply swiping their hand. The selected media is then played either through the seven-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system, or via a set of portable Harman Kardon headphones that wirelessly charge when stowed in the console. Up front, a compartment in the centre stack allows for wireless mobile phone charging, and Kia’s first use of 3D-printed components add a distinct, modern design element to the dashboard, door panels, and steering wheel.
The Telluride’s ‘modern and muscular’ appearance is accentuated by flared wheel arches stretching around huge 22-inch five-spoke wheels. A front fascia incorporates a much larger version of Kia’s tiger nose grille, as well as quad-LED headlamps, pronounced horizontal LED indicator lights, and a polished-metal skid plate below the bumper.
The concept is powered by an ‘extremely efficient’ PHEV powertrain, activated by a finger-print push-button start. Utilising a 3.5-litre petrol direct injected (GDI) V6 engine and powerful electric motor, the SUV’s transverse-mounted powertrain combines to produce 400 horsepower (270 horsepower from V6 and 130 horsepower from the electric motor) while achieving more than 30mpg on the motorway. Power is sent to all four wheels via an advanced all-wheel drive system.
While there are currently no plans to bring the Telluride to production, Kia says it has a history of delivering production vehicles that bear strong resemblance to a preceding concept.
Honda is to launch a new CR-V Black Edition as well as a special edition Civic.
Three years after the last version of the CR-V Black Edition first launched, Honda has revived the more sporty, ‘premium’ look. Available in 4WD with a choice of petrol or diesel and manual or automatic, the new CR-V Black Edition gets running boards, a tailgate spoiler, 19” black alloys, a gloss black front grille as well as gloss black skid plates on the front and rear. The full leather interior features contrasting stitching with an embossed Black Edition logo on the front and rear seats while the door panels and arm rests are also leather. The interior is finished off with premium carpet mats complete with the Black Edition logo.
Based on the standard 1.4 i-VTEC S manual, the new Civic Limited Edition comes with 16” aero alloys, body coloured wheel arches, front panel and rear skirt to give the car a slightly more aggressive sporty look. The new edition is available in Brilliant Sporty Blue, Polished Metal, Milano Red and Crystal Black.
Philip Crossman, Managing Director at Honda UK, commented: “This time last year we had the oldest range on the market and were about to launch the latest Civic and CR-V. This limited edition Civic and the Black Edition CR-V are fantastic additions to the core product line up and will make for a great start to 2016.”
Both are available from early February, with the Civic Limited Edition priced at £14,995 OTR and the CR-V Black Edition at £29,995 and £33,730 for the automatic.
Following its unveiling to the media in South Korea, Hyundai has confirmed details of its next generation of hybrid vehicles, dubbed IONIQ.
Rag Jung, Head of Project Management Division at Hyundai's R&D Centre said, "IONIQ embodies Hyundai Motor's new thinking and bold ambitions for the future. This world-class dedicated hybrid will be the starting point of our future mobility."
Built on a chassis created specifically to carry the world's first choice of three efficient and ultra-low emission powertrains, the IONIQ contains 53% Advanced High Strength Steel combined with lightweight aluminum. The new model saves 12.6kg (45%) of weight by casting non-structural bodywork from aluminum, such as the hood, tailgate and suspension components. Where crash structure or energy absorption is necessary, the structure features Advanced High Strength Steel that can withstand significant collision forces.
The new model was created with 'dynamic ride and handling at its core', says Hyundai, setting it apart from other hybrid vehicles. Positioning the car's batteries low and forward achieves a low centre of gravity that enables responsive, stable cornering backed up by dual lower arm multi-link suspension fitted at the rear.
The full IONIQ range will feature a choice of electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid powertrains, a world first for a single model. At the unveiling in Korea, details were shared for the first version to come to market - the hybrid.
With 40 percent thermal efficiency, the new 1.6-litre Kappa GDi engine developed exclusively for Hyundai's hybrid engines, combines with the permanent magnetic electric motor to deliver maximum outputs of 105PS and 47PS - engine and motor respectively.
The Lithium Ion Polymer Battery optimises output from the high voltage motor to allow for rapid regeneration while power distribution is controlled by a hybrid-exclusive Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).
Hyundai claims power transmission efficiency of 95.7 percent will deliver a prompt response, acceleration performance and smooth gear changes to delight drivers with handling alongside the hybrid's efficiency.
Arriving in UK dealerships this summer, the all-new Edge tops off Ford's three-car SUV line-up.
Offering space for up to five passengers, 'segment-first technologies and refinement to rival premium competitors', claims Ford, it joins the medium-sized Ford Kuga and compact EcoSport models in what is the UK's fastest-growing vehicle sector.
Andy Barratt, chairman and managing director, Ford of Britain, said: "The introduction of the stylish Ford Edge SUV is another incredibly exciting moment for Ford and its dealers. Joining performance products like Mustang and Focus RS and new luxury products like Mondeo Vignale already in showrooms, the Edge makes the Ford product line-up for 2016 never stronger.
Available in Zetec, Titanium and Sport series, the Edge is equipped as standard with Ford intelligent all-wheel drive, Active Noise Control, Pedestrian Detection, Ford DAB Audio with SYNC 2 connectivity, privacy glass and 19in alloy wheels. It comes in a choice of 10 exterior colours and a wide range of interior leather trim options.
The Edge will be offered in the UK with a choice of 180PS 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine with six-speed manual transmission, or 210PS bi-turbo 2.0litre TDCi diesel with six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission. Both powertrains will deliver 48.7mpg fuel efficiency and 149g/km CO2 supported by Auto-Start-Stop technology (47.9mpg and 152g/km when fitted with 20in wheels).
Ford's SUV flagship will feature new technologies, including Adaptive Steering, Front Wide View Camera and Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection; a camera- and radar-based system that can operate at speeds from 5mph to 110mph to detect vehicles and people in the road ahead.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is fitted as standard, switching between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive to adapt to changing road conditions. It measures how the wheels are gripping the road surface every 16 milliseconds and can send up to 100 per cent of engine torque to the front or rear wheels.
Acoustic windscreen glass and laminated glass for both front door windows, reduce the intrusion of wind noise while underbody panels and wheel-arch liners further minimise noise from both the wind and the road.
All Edge models are also equipped with Ford's Active Noise Control technology that detects unwanted engine noise in the cabin and cancels it out with opposing sound waves fed through the integrated sound system.
Available to order now, the all-new Ford Edge is priced from £29,995 on the road.
Kia will reveal a brand new concept car at the 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.
Conceived at the Korean carmaker’s California design studio, the concept features advanced technology – including state-of-the-art health-and-wellness technology – and takes Kia’s design language in a new direction, hinting at the styling of a possible future premium large SUV in the brand’s line-up.
Kia says that there are currently no plans for the concept to enter immediate production and decisions on which markets may receive a future production version will be made in due course.
The Detroit Auto Show opens its doors on January 11, 2016.
Produced from 1997 to 2006, the Land Rover Freelander 1 is now officially a Land Rover Heritage vehicle.
A Heritage model is defined as a product that has been out of production for longer than 10 years so Freelander 1 owners will now be supported by the brand’s Heritage experts to ensure they can continue to enjoy their vehicles for many years to come.
Land Rover Heritage specialises in cars, services, parts and experiences for classic Land Rover models and the Freelander 1 becomes the brand’s eighth Heritage model, joining the Series I, II and III, Range Rover Classic and P38 Range Rover plus Discovery 1 and 2.
Over 9,000 individual Land Rover Heritage Part numbers are available for the Freelander 1, adding to the brand’s parts catalogue, which already features over 33,000 items for both Jaguar and Land Rover Heritage vehicles.
Tim Hannig, Director, Jaguar Land Rover Heritage, said: “With the addition of the Freelander 1 as a Heritage model, Land Rover is reaffirming its support and commitment to its loyal customers by providing exceptional cars, services, parts and experiences for models more than 10 years out of production. Genuine Land Rover Heritage Parts for Freelander 1 have been engineered and tested in extreme conditions. As such it gives our customers total peace-of-mind that their vehicles are maintained to the highest possible standards.”
The Freelander became Europe’s best-selling 4WD vehicle for five consecutive years after its launch in 1997 and at the time had 16 patented features including Hill Decent Control (HDC), Immediate Reduction Drive (IDR), a viscous-coupling (VCU) and an innovative ABS system designed specifically for off-road situations.
Kia is to unveil a special, one-off X-Men-inspired Sportage as part of its ongoing collaboration with Twentieth Century Fox and the X-Men movie franchise.
The 2nd generation Kia X-Car has been created to promote the new X-Men: Apocalypse film and Kia’s sponsorship of the Australian Open 2016 tennis championship.
Inspired by X-Men character Mystique, the 2nd generation Kia X-Car mimics the appearance and powers of the famous shape-shifter. X-Men fans are invited to watch the X-Car shape-shift in a special on-line video starring Kia’s ‘superhuman’ global brand ambassador Rafael Nadal by visiting https://www.allaboutsportage.com/ from 4 January, 2016.
The Sportage, driven by Nadal in his efforts to take on the X-Men’s arch-villain Apocalypse, transforms from its standard state into custom-designed bodywork with a special textured matte and gloss blue paint finish, racing wheels and tyres along with red and yellow bodywork highlights.
Ahead of the X-Men: Apocalypse’s global release in cinemas in May 2016, the brand will take the covers off the new car before the start of the Australian Open in January in Melbourne, where it will remain on public display throughout the tournament (18-31 January) before making appearances at various international motor shows and fan events in the run up to the film’s premiere.
The Sportage-based Kia X-Car is the company’s second show car project in collaboration with Fox, following the Wolverine-inspired Sorento that was shown at the Australian Open 2015 earlier this year.
The all-new Kia Sportage was revealed earlier this year, featuring an all-new exterior design, a host of advanced new technologies and enhanced quality. It is set to go on sale in early 2016.
