Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell breaks new distance records

Hyundai and the London Hydrogen Network Expansion project (LHNE) has broken two new distance records for hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

Working together, the partners of the government-backed LHNE project have broken the record for the longest journey in the UK on a single tank of hydrogen, travelling 400 miles - and have also broken the longest continuous journey for an FCEV by travelling 6,096 miles over the course of six days.

The record was broken in the ix35 Fuel Cell car as part of the LHNE partners’ contribution to Hydrogen Week (March 11-18), designed to raise awareness of the significant benefits offered by FCEVs and their environmentally-friendly credentials.

The group of companies that comprise the project, which is led by Air Products, completed around 50 of laps of the M25 motorway, plus mileage to and from one of the four publicly-accessible hydrogen refuelling stations in the UK.

Hydrogen FCEVs produce no harmful tailpipe emissions with water being the only by-product. With range and refuelling times similar to those of petrol or diesel cars, they can be seen as direct replacements for conventional vehicles.

LHNE, co-funded by Innovate UK, was set up in 2012 to create the UK’s first hydrogen-powered transport system across London and the South East. It has delivered a new publicly-accessible, state-of-the-art fast-fill SmartFuel hydrogen refuelling station and upgraded a second to 700 bar pressure status.

The LHNE partners are now keen for the adoption of a range of hydrogen vehicle technologies, including fuel cells, to accelerate in the UK but one of the main challenges is the limited coverage of refuelling stations to support the vehicles. There are currently four publicly-accessible stations in the UK, including the two Air Products SmartFuel stations in London, and funding is in place for at least 12 to be operational in England and Scotland within the next 12 months.

Diana Raine, European Business Manager Hydrogen Energy Systems at Air Products, which has led the LHNE project, said: “It is fantastic to have overhauled the two records we aimed to beat this week. The fact that we have managed to drive 6,096 miles in under a week demonstrates perfectly the viability and usability of FCEVs. What we need now for accelerated adoption of hydrogen vehicles is for the Government to work with our industry to provide the right framework for the technology to become truly accepted by the public.”

Prices for the Hyundai ix35 Fuel Cell vehicle start from £53,105 OTR with part-funding from the HyFive project - saving customers nearly £15,000 off the un-funded on-the-road-price of £67,985.

Nissan celebrates 20 years of the curry hook

Nissan has been successfully delivering curry to its customers for 20 years.

Returning safely from the take-away without spilling a drop of Tikka Masala sauce on the seat, this month marks 20 years since the debut of one of its most simple of features – the ‘curry hook’.

The dashboard hook first appeared on the Nissan Almera compact family hatchback in March 1996, as a way of keeping hand bags or shopping bags upright. It was quickly dubbed the ‘curry hook’ by media who recognised it was the perfect way to stop takeaway food from spilling into the car’s foot well. Today, it remains a feature of the crossovers such as the Qashqai and X-Trail. All that’s changed is the location of the hook; it has moved from the dashboard to the boot.

Another simple solution Nissan has installed is the ‘Karakuri’ boot board – also known as the Flexi-Board – which is available on the Qashqai, Juke and Note. It allows owners to divide the cargo space according to their needs, and can be arranged in various configurations to support and protect items in transit. When not in use, it stores out of the way in the boot floor.

Interestingly, in September 1986 when the first Nissan Bluebird rolled off the new production line in Sunderland it had two analogue trip meters built into the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel - to allow business users to separately log their professional and private mileage. A unique feature at the time, this is now standard on the digital read-outs of almost every volume car brand.

David Moss, Vice President, Vehicle Design & Development, commented: “Whether its trip meters, power sockets, boot boards or the famous curry hook, Nissan engineers never forget that it’s often these clever ideas – which make life easier for drivers – that will keep our customers coming back time and time again.”

Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC revealed

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the E 43 4MATIC saloon.

The most powerful variant of the executive saloon is driven by a 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine with two new turbochargers. The supercharged six-cylinder engine delivers 401 bhp for a 0-62mph time of 4.6 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. A 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is specially matched to the requirements of the new E 43 4MATIC with paddles on the steering wheel. A double-declutching function in "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes makes for an a ‘even more emotional driving experience’. 

'Defined ignition intervention' additionally enables faster gear shifting than in "Eco" and "Comfort" modes, while "Manual" mode can be selected using a separate button in the centre console. Meanwhile, the retuned sports suspension based on the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension and the more direct steering ratio also provide a ‘signature’ AMG Driving Performance. The Adaptive Damping System sports suspension features in a model-specific configuration and offers a choice of three modes - "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport Plus".

The standard-spec AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive combines ‘optimum traction with high agility’ thanks to rear-biased torque distribution.

AMG styling includes three large openings in the front apron to ensure an optimum flow of air to the coolers while the diamond grille with chromed pins, a louvre in high-gloss black and the AMG lettering represent further hallmarks of the AMG 43 models. The side view is dominated by high-sheen 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black while at the rear, two chrome-plated quad-flow exhaust tailpipes conveying a sporty aesthetic. The rear diffusor comes in silver chrome, while the standard-spec spoiler lip on the boot lid is painted in the body colour.

Inside, a secure position in the sports seats even when driving at speed features improved lateral support. The upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black (optionally: nappa leather) features red topstitching. To match the seat design, the door centre panels and the dashboard are finished in ARTICO man-made leather with red topstitching. Exclusive pedals, a black roof lining and red seat belts add further sporty highlights.

The multifunction sports steering wheel in black nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching and featuring a flattened bottom section is matched by the AMG instrument cluster - delivering all relevant information in a clearly arranged layout, optimised for a dynamic driving style. Two tube-style round dials, the multifunction colour display, the RACETIMER and the 280 km/h scale in chequered-flag design conjure up a sports car feel.

The new Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC will debut at the New York Auto Show in March 2016, before hitting showrooms in September 2016.

MINI confirms One D Clubman pricing and spec

MINI has revealed its new One D Clubman.

Priced from £21,375 OTR (automatic from £22,815 OTR), the new model retains the popular split rear doors with accessibility and everyday usability further enhanced by four full-sized side doors. Featuring a new ‘mature and sophisticated design’, the Clubman’s dimensions are larger than those of the previous generation. It’s also 270 mm longer and 73 mm wider than the 5-door Hatch, with a wheelbase which is 100 mm larger. The boot has a volume of 360 litres, which can be extended to 1,250 litres by folding the rear seats flat.

The new One D Clubman is powered by a TwinPower Turbo diesel engine which meets EU6 exhaust emission standards. With a peak output of 116hp generating 270NM of torque, top speed is 119mph. Fuel consumption averages 74.3 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 99g/km, helping company car drivers benefit from a low BiK rate of 17 per cent in the 2015-16 tax year. A six-speed manual transmissions is standard while an optional six-speed Steptronic transmission is available.

Technology features fitted as standard on the new model include a shift point display, brake energy regeneration, active cooling air flaps and needs-oriented control of the fuel and coolant pump as well as other ancillary components.

A Chili pack, priced at £2,785, can be specified which adds additional extras to the car including cloth/leather upholstery with heated sports seats, MINI’s comfort access system, park distance control, automatic air conditioning, LED headlights and LED fog lights among other features.

Standard safety features comprises of six airbags, 3-point automatic belts on all seats including belt tensioners and adaptive belt force limiters at the front, as well as ISOFIX child seat mountings at the rear. A tyre pressure display for each individual wheel is also included as standard.

Available to order now, first customer deliveries are expected in April 2016.

Jaguar team up with skier Graham Bell for Record attempt

Jaguar and Olympic skier Graham Bell have teamed up to try and break a Guinness World Record.

The technical partnership is aimed at setting the World Record for the fastest man on skiis in 2017. Bell, now a TV presenter on the TV show ‘The Jump’, hopes to achieve the record with the support of Jaguar Land Rover engineers, facilities and expertise in aerodynamics.

Working with Jaguar to develop a unique ski suit and harness containing twin micro jets, he hopes to reach speeds of over 160mph – setting a new World Record. He has already begun training for the record by ski-joring behind a Jaguar XE AWD at over 100mph in the Austrian Alps.

Graham Bell said “I approached Jaguar to become my lead technical partner due to their experience in aerodynamics and love of all things involving speed. As lead technical partner in the attempt, Jaguar will provide the aerodynamic expertise to develop the Iron-Man-style suit I need, as well as helping me acclimatise to speed and external forces using high performance vehicles including the Jaguar XE AWD - designed to provide maximum traction in adverse conditions including snow and ice.”

Ian Anderton, thermal and aerodynamics manager, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “As engineering challenges go it doesn’t get more unique than this, so the next few months are going to be very exciting. We kick-started the technical partnership by ski-joring with a Jaguar XE AWD to determine what factors should to be taken into consideration when designing his suit, such as wind, skiing position and chill – especially in minus conditions.”

The Jaguar XE has been optimised for 'ultimate aerodynamic efficiency and stability'. It is the the only car in its class to use an aluminium-intensive body structure, making it the lightest, stiffest and most aerodynamic Jaguar yet. The XE AWD enhances vehicle dynamics and provides greater traction in intense weather conditions.

The record attempt will take place at Jaguar’s cold weather testing facility in Sweden in early 2017. Although there is no comparable record, the current World Downhill Speed Skiing World Record is currently held by Simone Oregone at 156mph.

Porsche adds new entry level Macan

Porsche has extended its Macan line-up by adding a new entry-level model.

The 252 hp turbocharged two-litre engine in the Macan was specifically tailored for this model and is mated to a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission as standard. As a result, the entry-level Macan delivers a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds, and with the optional Sport Chrono-Package, this time is reduced to 6.5 seconds. The top speed is 142mph. In terms of fuel consumption, the Macan consumes between 31.7mpg to 39.2mpg according to the NEDC.

Many of the vehicle’s standard features are the same as those in the S models, for example, comfort seats with electric eight-way adjustment on the driver’s side, Alcantara middle seat panels, the latest generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM), lane-departure warning system and a powered tailgate. The new entry-level model only differs from other more powerful models in its details - exterior distinguishing characteristics include side window trim strips in black, also black brake callipers sit behind the 18-inch wheels and the exhaust system has two single tailpipes made of brushed stainless steel.

Sporty driving dynamics are ensured, says the German car maker, by the standard Porsche Traction Management PTM active all-wheel drive system. An air suspension system with levelling control including the PASM with adaptive dampers is available as an option.

Market launch for the new Porsche Macan will take place in June 2016 with prices expected to start around £43k OTR.

SEAT reveals Alhambra 20th anniversary model

SEAT’s MPV - the Alhambra - celebrates its anniversary with a special edition model.

The new Alhambra 20th anniversary special edition includes unique design features with an ‘extensive package’ of technologies. The special edition runs on 17-inch alloy wheels in high-gloss black, which are complemented by the xenon headlamps, the tinted side and rear windows and the large panorama glass sliding roof.

On the inside, the dark Alcantara upholstery features stitching in light corn silk with ‘Alhambra 20 years’ stitched into the front sports massage seats. The technology package includes Keyless entry while the tailgate can be operated hands-free by a foot gesture. Like the two sliding doors also open and close electrically. Safety and assistance systems includes Lane Assist lane-departure warning system, Blind Spot Detection, traffic sign recognition and the light assistant.

Prices for the SEAT Alhambra 20th anniversary model are expected to start around the £25k mark.

Subaru XV concept revealed

Subaru showed the XV Concept at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

The concept previewed a future design direction for Subaru, including the forthcoming, all-new XV compact crossover.

The XV Concept design study embodies the brands next-generation ‘DYNAMIC X SOLID’ design philosophy, with a solid, robust appearance and raised ground clearance that references the ‘go-anywhere’ All-Wheel Drive capability of every Subaru vehicle.

The cabin silhouette tapers as the bodywork flows towards the rear, leaving an impression of ‘energy and athleticism’ without compromising the concept's practicality, says Subaru. The body surfacing is divided by two strong character lines – one extending from the front bumper, along the doors and into the rear shoulder; another rising from the lower half of the doors towards the rear of the car.

The front features Subaru’s signature hexagonal grille and ‘hawk-eye’ headlamps. Matt black body cladding runs from the front bumper, over the wheel arches and side sills, and into the rear bumper. The rear also includes matt black-clad rear bumpers which rise to meet the car’s rear combination lamps.

Subaru has given the concept an exclusive new paint finish, ‘Glacier Khaki Silica’ – a newly-developed blue-grey tone created to evoke the appearance of glacier ice. Orange accents appear on the grille, front and rear bumpers, 19-inch aluminium wheels and roof rails.

BMW reveals futuristic concept ‘Vision Next 100’

BMW has revealed a new futuristic concept - the Vision Next 100. 

The autonomous concept marks 100 years since the German car giant was founded, and BMW says in the not-too-distant future, most vehicles will probably be completely self-driving – ‘people will get around in robots on wheels’. The main objective in creating the Vision Next 100 was to produce an anonymous vehicle, but one that is highly personalised and fully geared to meet the driver’s every need. For the BMW Vision Next 100, the design team specifically took into account all the trends and technological developments that will be most relevant in the decades ahead.

Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design: “If, as a designer, you are able to imagine something, there’s a good chance it could one day become reality. So our objective with the BMW Vision Next 100 was to develop a future scenario that people would engage with. Technology is going to make significant advances, opening up fantastic new possibilities that will allow us to offer the driver even more assistance for an even more intense driving experience. My personal view is that technology should be as intuitive as possible to operate and experience so that future interactions between human, machine and surroundings become seamless. The BMW Vision Next 100 shows how we intend to shape this future.”

BMW says that four main proposals underpin the concept; 'A genuine BMW is always driver-focused, Artificial intelligence and intuitive technology becomes one, New materials open up breathtaking opportunities and Mobility will remain an emotional experience'.

The design of the interior permits various modes of operation: Boost mode, in which the driver is at the controls, and Ease mode, in which the driver can sit back and let the vehicle take over. In Ease, the vehicle becomes a place of retreat with plenty of space, soft lighting and a comfortable atmosphere. In Boost, the driver takes over and benefits from the ‘subtle and intuitive’ support offered by the vehicle. All the time, the vehicle is learning more and more about the person at the wheel, thanks to its sensory and digital intelligence, which BMW calls the Companion. The Companion progressively learns to offer the right kind of support to transform the driver into the Ultimate Driver.

An important element of the Vision Vehicle is another innovation known as Alive Geometry - the likes of which have never before been seen in a car. It consists of a kind of three-dimensional sculpture that works both inside and outside the vehicle. Consisting of almost 800 moving triangles which are set into the instrument panel and into certain areas of the side panels. They work in three dimensions, communicating very directly with the driver through their movements, which are more like gestures than two-dimensional depictions on a display. Even the slightest peripheral movement is perceptible to the driver. In combination with the Head-Up display, Alive Geometry 'fuses the analogue with the digital'.

The Vision Vehicle suggests there will at some point be no more displays at all, instead the entire windscreen will serve as a giant display, directly in front of the driver. In the future the digital and physical worlds will merge considerably, as is also expressed through Alive Geometry, for example, in the way the analogue dashboard interacts with the digital Head-Up Display in the front windscreen.

The exterior design of the BMW Vision Vehicle is characterised by a blend of ‘coupe-type sportiness’ and the dynamic elegance of a sedan. At 4.90 meters long and 1.37 meters high, it has compact exterior dimensions. Inside, however, it has the dimensions of a luxury BMW sedan. The large wheels are positioned at the outer edges of the body, giving the vehicle the dynamic stance of a BMW. When it comes to aerodynamics, the exterior Alive Geometry contributes to an ‘outstanding effect’ - when the wheels swivel as the vehicle is steered, the bodywork keeps them covered as if it were a flexible skin, accommodating their various positions. This results in a low drag coefficient of 0.18.

The designers of the Vision Next 100 primarily used fabrics made from recycled or renewable materials. The visible and non-visible carbon components, such as the side panels, are made from residues from normal carbon fibre production. In the future, the choice of materials will become even more important throughout the design and production process.

With time, other new materials will also be added into the mix, allowing different vehicle shapes to emerge. To save resources and support more sustainable manufacturing, less use will be made of wood and leather while innovative materials and the consequent new possibilities in design and production gradually come to the fore.

New Renault Scenic debuts in Geneva

Renault has revealed its new Scenic people carrier.

Described as a fresh take on the MPV concept, the new model was unveiled by Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn.

“The New Scenic redefines the MPV. Loyal to its principles of practicality, ingenuity and modularity, the new Scenic addresses the demands of today’s customers and re-emerges as a pioneer in its segment with ground-breaking design and assertive personality,” said Ghosn. “Renault continues its product offensive, and 2016 will be the most ambitious in Renault’s history, with the introduction of 10 new vehicles around the world. With these new models Renault has the youngest range in Europe.”

Renault says the new Scenic is a ‘modern, assertive MPV which combines driving enjoyment and comfort for the whole family' and comes with ‘unprecedented proportions’, 20-inch wheels across the range and a two-tone colour scheme.

On the inside an more modular interior includes a sliding centre console and an automatic One Touch Folding system for the rear seats. The French company says for the first time in the compact MPV segment, the Scenic has a comprehensive suite of driving aids including AEBS (Automatic Emergency Braking System) with Pedestrian Detection as standard equipment for all versions. Features shared with the new Espace, including MULTI-SENSE technology, R-LINK 2 with an 8.7-inch display and a colour heads-up display.

Power comes from ‘an extensive’ choice of petrol and diesel engines to cover all needs, including a Hybrid Assist diesel-electric powertrain.

A new Grand Scenic will be revealed before the summer and both will be available for sale before the end of the year.

Audi Q2 debuts in Geneva

Audi has unveiled its new Q2 compact SUV in Geneva.

The German company says it has ‘taken the compact SUV in a bold new styling direction' with the Q2 designed to appeal to a younger audience. It also includes a portfolio of connectivity, infotainment and assistance systems borrowed from larger Audi models.

At the front, the high-mounted Singleframe grille in octagonal design is joined by large air inlets. A low roof descends and merges into the C-pillars with colour offset blades, while the rear body ends with a long roof spoiler and a diffuser that has an 'off-road' look.

The Q2 is launching in the UK with a choice of five engines. Along with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder TFSI, two four-cylinder petrol engines are being offered with 1.4 and 2.0 litres of displacement (2.0-litre TFSI to follow in 2017). In addition, two four-cylinder diesel engines will be available with 1.6 and 2.0 litres of displacement and outputs of 116PS and 150PS. As an alternative to the six-speed manual transmission, Audi also offers the S tronic dual clutch transmission with seven speeds for all engines. In the 2.0 TFSI, a newly developed dual-clutch transmission is used which has a new type of oil supply and reduced friction. The 150PS TDI engine can be combined with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, and the system is standard in conjunction with the 2.0 TFSI engine.

The Q2 has the high entry of an SUV with good visibility and a large luggage compartment (405 to 1,050 litres of capacity), yet Audi says the driver’s seat position is low in relation to the steering wheel as in a saloon. Optional extras include a power tailgate, an LED lighting package and a three-way split rear bench backrest with cargo through-loading, while newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard, and can be optionally increased to 19 inches upon request.

Expected to open for UK orders in July, first deliveries of the new Audi Q2 are due in November 2016.

Four-seater Volvo XC90 Excellence set for Shanghai debut

Volvo is to unveil a luxurious four-seat version of the XC90 at the Shanghai International Automobile Show. 

The XC90 Excellence has been designed, says Volvo, to offer customers a distinct and individual automotive experience that incorporates the latest Scandinavian innovations in design, refinement, comfort and style.

Based on Volvo’s all new XC90, it has just four seats compared to the original’s seven, creating additional space in the rear to accommodate two individual reclining rear seats complete with massage and ventilation functions as well as a retractable control touchscreen and folding tables.

There’s also a refrigerator with bottle and glass holders, a heating/cooling cup holder and handmade crystal glasses from leading Swedish glass design company, Orrefors. 

Additional cabin refinements include a special Bowers & Wilkins audio system with an extra (twentieth) speaker, passenger footrests, ambient lighting, illuminated storage and unique leather detailing, a luggage compartment dividing screen, extra sound insulation and Pirelli Noise Cancelling System tyres (PNCS).

An integrated ionic air cleaner in the CleanZone climate system works by positively charging electrons in airborne particles (dust or smoke for example) so they are removed from suspension in the cabin environment.

“This is our new flagship car,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President, Design. “We have created the ultimate luxury experience of Scandinavian design. Volvo has never launched a car like this before. This is the car that demonstrates what the name Volvo now means.”

The XC90 Excellence will be available globally later this year and via digital commerce in selected markets, but there are currently no plans to bring it to the UK.

Mercedes-AMG reveals C 43 4MATIC Coupe

Mercedes-AMG has added a new new C 43 4MATIC Coupe to its C-Class family.

The 367hp, 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine is mated to a new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission that, together with the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the model-specific chassis technology, provides ‘high agility and exhilarating lateral dynamics’. The 0-62mph time takes 4.7 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

With model-specific software application, AMG says it has managed to ‘substantially’ reduce the shift times of the 9-speed transmission. Multiple downshift allows even faster short bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in the "Sport" and "Sport Plus" transmission modes makes for ‘an even more emotive driving experience’. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode, and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel.

"The extension of the C-Class family to include the new C 43 4MATIC Coupe is another component in our growth strategy. It not only enriches the wide line-up of the C-Class family, but also starts the introduction of a whole series of new ‘43’ models this year," says Mercedes-AMG GmbH chairman Tobias Moers. "The ‘43’ models boast the characteristic AMG genes, which are also included in our GT and ‘63’ vehicles, and thus consistently interpret our brand essence of 'Driving Performance' in their segment."

In order to increase efficiency, the ECO start/stop function and the 'sailing' function reduce fuel consumption in "Eco" mode: when the driver releases the accelerator the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idle level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.

Characteristic sporty features includes distinctive AMG styling such as the front apron with sporty distinctive air intakes, diamond meshes, silver chrome trim, as well as the rear apron with matt iridium silver diffuser insert. The diamond radiator grille features chrome-plated pins, a louvre in high-gloss black and the AMG lettering. Down below, the silver chrome front splitter ensures an optimal flow of air to the cooling modules.

Additional highlights include the black exterior mirror housings, the high-gloss black waistline trim strip and window frame, as well as the two chrome-plated tailpipes with centre divider. AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish round off the design visually.

Inside, the driver finds a secure position in the sports seat even driving at speed thanks to 'improved lateral support', while the AMG instrument cluster delivers all relevant information in a clearly arranged layout optimised for a dynamic driving style. An authentic sports car look and feel is provided by two tube-shaped round dials, 11.4 cm (4.5-inch) multifunction colour display, RACETIMER and 280 km/h scale in chequered-flag design.

V40 gets new Volvo face

The V40 has been given a refresh with Volvo’s new corporate face and trim updates across the range.

Central to the exterior updates are new LED ‘Thor’s Hammer’ headlights, in line with the new XC90, S90 and V90. In the UK, these all-LED lights mark the V40 and V40 Cross Country out as the first models in the segment to get LED headlights as standard across the range. Also new are grille meshes featuring the updated Volvo Iron Mark.

“The V40 is the best-selling Volvo model in the UK, making it a vital car for the company. With the updates for Model Year 2017, we’re making this already very successful model even more attractive to customers,” said Nick Connor, Managing Director of Volvo Car UK.

The exterior update includes the addition of eight new wheels and five new colours to the V40 range, including the completely new Amazon Blue and Denim Blue, as well as three others already used by other Volvo models: Bursting Blue, Mussel Blue and Luminous Sand.

In addition to the cosmetic changes, CO2 emissions on the D2 manual powertrain have been cut to 89 g/km in all trim level and wheel options.

The V40's trim structure has also been changed in line with that of the new XC90. Customers can now choose from Momentum, Inscription, R-Design and Cross Country.  

The Volvo On Call smartphone app has also been updated.  It now enables voice-control for certain features when using Windows 10-based smartphones and can even send calendar appointment destinations directly to your navigation on request. 

For 2016, Volvo On Call will be expanded to provide support for up to 10 vehicles, giving access to all the usual functions across a fleet of cars, while the introduction of Flic button compatibility will allow you to program a single physical ‘smart button’ to perform several tasks, such as locking your car.

Volvo now also offers support for Windows 10 with a new version of the app that can be used on regular PCs and tablets.

Renault reveals new Scenic MPV

Renault has unveiled the its new Scenic MPV.

After three generations of the Scenic, the new model ‘redefines MPV thinking’ says Renault. Set for a Geneva Motor Show debut, the idea behind the fourth-generation Scenic according to the French company was to provide a completely fresh take on the compact MPV.

For the first time, like the new Espace, the model includes a three-part windscreen that provides a panoramic view and enhanced visibility. A number of styling features give the new Scenic a dynamic edge when compared with the Scenic 3 - its ground clearance has been raised and the rear overhang has been shortened, while a wider track at both the front and rear provide the vehicle with a particularly solid stance.

The new model comes with a distinctive lighting signature in the form of C-shaped head lights that benefit from LED Pure Vision technology like higher-end models.

Renault will pull the covers off the new MPV at midday on March 1 with Renault’s Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn and SVP Corporate Design Laurens van den Acker.

The Geneva Motor Show runs from 3-13 March.