|
|
|
|
 |
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 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
|
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 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
|
Our cars tested: weekly updates
(Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:20:00 GMT)
We put the What Car? fleet through the ultimate test - every day life.
We’re a varied bunch of people, and drive each other's cars regularly, so we find out what the cars on test are like from a wide range of perspectives.
Each week we update our reports, giving you the insider track on what these cars are like to own.
Simply click on the links below to get the latest on our cars.
Alfa Romeo Giulietta
Run by Tom Webster, Staff Writer
Alfa Romeo Giulietta on test
Audi A1
Run by Rosie McMahon, data editor
Audi A1 on test
BMW 5 Series Touring
Run by John McIlroy, magazine editor
BMW 5 Series Touring on test
Ford Focus
Run by Adele Donaghie, managing editor
Ford Focus
Honda CR-Z
Run By Steve Huntingford, new cars editor
Honda CR-Z on test
Hyundai i40 Tourer
Run by Stephen Hopkins, art editor
Hyundai i40 on test
Jaguar XF
Run by Euan Doig, group production editor
Jaguar XF on test
Lexus CT200h
Run by Iain Reid, web producer
Lexus CT200h on test
Kia Picanto
Run by Will Nightingale, road tester
Kia Picanto on test
Mercedes-Benz CLS
Run by Chas Hallett, editor-in-chief
Mercedes CLS on test
Mini Countryman
Run by Alex Newby, deputy editor
Mini Countryman on test
Mini Coupe
Run by Ivan Aistrop, content editor
Mini Coupe on test
Nissan Leaf
Nissan's electric Leaf is tested by What Car? staffers
Nissan Leaf on test
Peugeot 508 SW
What Car? publishing director, Andrew Golby, takes on the Peugeot 508 SW.
Peugeot 508 SW on test
Seat Alhambra
Run by John Bradshaw, chief photographer
Seat Alhambra on test
Vauxhall Astra GTC
Run by Emma Butcher, consumer editor
Vauxhall Astra on test
Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer
Run by Neil Williams, photographer
Vauxhall Astra Sport Tourer on test
Volkswagen Passat Estate
Run by Barnaby Jones, deputy production editor
Volkswagen Passat Estate on test
Used
Nissan Qashqai
Run by Rory White, used car editor
Nissan Qashqai on test
Our cars: previous reports
BMW Alpina D3
Audi A2 on test
Citroen DS3
Ford S-Max
Hyundai ix35
Infiniti M30d
Jaguar XJ
Mazda CX-7
Nissan Juke on test
Peugeot 3008
Range Rover on test
Renault Megane Renaultsport
Skoda Yeti
Volkswagen Golf
Volvo S60
|
Toyota GT 86 prices revealed
(Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:10:00 GMT)
The Toyota GT 86 coupe will cost from £24,995.
The GT 86 is an eagerly anticipated two-door coupe – co-developed with Subaru – which will go on sale in the UK next summer. The Subaru version is called the BRZ.
The car is a traditional front-engined, rear-wheel-drive sportscar, powered by a new 2.0-litre flat-four boxer engine.
The GT 86 (pronounced eight six) develops 197bhp, which can blast it to a top speed of 145mph, with 60mph reached in around 7 seconds.
Full specification and pricing will be revealed closer to the car's on-sale. Deliveries start from June.
Iain Reid
|
Mini Convertible Highgate unveiled
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 23:00:00 GMT)
The Mini Convertible Highgate – the car maker's latest London-themed special edition – has been unveiled.
The Mini Convertible Highgate comes with a ‘Chocolate’ paint scheme and a brown cloth roof as standard. A black or white metallic finish can be specified as an option, while black or brown bonnet stripes with blue edging finish the look.
The Mini Highgate also gets 17-inch alloys that are inspired by the Union Jack.
‘Highgate’ badging can be found on the side indicator surrounds, doorsills and the seat tags, while the interior gets leather seats in ‘Dark Truffle’ brown with light blue piping. Stainless steel pedals, alloy details and bespoke floor mats complete the upgrades.
The Highgate special edition is available with four engines: 120bhp Cooper and 181bhp Cooper S petrol models, and 110bhp Cooper D and 141bhp Cooper SD diesels.
Prices range from £21,080 for the Cooper to £25,830 for the automatic Cooper SD.
The Mini Convertible Highgate is available to order now.
Tom Webster
|
New VW Golf prototype review
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT)
The 2013 Volkswagen Golf will be available with a range of sophisticated new powertrains, and we’ve driven two of them, in prototype form.
The Golf plug-in hybrid combines a petrol engine with an electric motor powered by batteries that can be recharged, to give a useful electric-only range.
The second prototype is the Golf Blue e-motion, which is an all-electric version of the Golf.
What are they like to drive? We drove versions of the future powertrains in current Golf models.
The Golf plug-in hybrid shows real promise. It’s able to travel for longer than most non-plug-in hybrids in electric-only mode, and is beautifully refined when it does so.
As you’d expect, the electric motor gives all of its considerable torque right from the word go, so performance is strong; and, when the petrol engine joins in, it does so very smoothly.
There’s still a lot of work to do on the car, but we can see from our very brief drive that, with the right development, this is the kind of car that could be a tough rival for the Chevrolet Volt and Vauxhall Ampera.
The electric Golf Blue e-motion is also a fine car that will provide a stern challenge to the best in class. Its performance is strong – at least on a par with the Nissan Leaf's – and the car is wonderfully smooth to drive: in many ways it's a perfect city car, but one that is just as at home on the open road, capable of decent pace in complete quiet.
What are they like inside? The Golf plug-in hybrid we drove was a development car. There are incongruous displays in the dashboard and a boot full of electrical kit that will be better concealed when the car finally goes into production.
The Golf e-motion, however, looks very much like a regular Golf – which is good news.
The interior has the same space and quality as any Golf, and you can only tell it’s electric by the fact that the dials and displays are unique to this model, while the boot floor is a little higher than a regular Golf’s to accommodate the batteries underneath.
Overall, though, you don’t lose much practicality for the sake of electric power.
Should I buy one? The all-new Golf goes on sale in early 2013.
The Blue e-motion version is likely to arrive in late 2013 or early 2014, while the plug-in hybrid model is due later in 2014.
The Golf Blue e-motion will be worth a look, because it’s certainly at least as good as a Nissan Leaf. There are the usual caveats that apply to any electric car – it has to fit into your lifestyle, with a range of less than 100 miles – but it’s one of the best.
Making a call on the Golf plug-in hybrid is pretty much impossible, given how Volkswagen still has to go in developing it. Nevertheless, we’ve seen enough already to know this is one space we’ll certainly be watching.
What Car? says…
VW Golf Blue e-motion
VW Golf plug-in hybrid
Andy Pringle
|
All-new BMW 3 Series coming soon
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:44:00 GMT)
The all-new BMW 3 Series officially hits showrooms on February 11, so what should we expect from BMW's class-leading compact executive?
The new 3 Series is larger and more spacious than the current car, yet most models are lighter, quicker and more efficient than those they replace.
From launch there will two petrol versions: the four-cylinder 328i and the six-cylinder 335i.
There are standard and Efficient Dynamics versions of the 320d diesel. Both have the same power output (161bhp and 181bhp) as before: CO2 emissions for the standard model have dropped from 125 to 118g/km, while the Efficient Dynamics has the same 109g/km figure as before.
A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, while BMW’s latest eight-speed automatic gearbox is an option across the range. The new 'box cuts CO2 emissions for automatic versions by up to 16%.
In spring, three more four-cylinder, 2.0-litre models are due: the 320i petrol and the 316d and 318d diesels. In autumn BMW will launch a six-cylinder diesel model, four-wheel drive versions and a hybrid model called ActiveHybrid 3.
As well as the previous ES, SE and M Sport variants, there are Sport, Modern and Luxury trim levels. Where comparable, there are modest price increases over the outgoing car. The 316d ES is the entry point, at £24,880.
All-new BMW 3 Series – all you need to know
Detroit motor show 2012: BMW 3 Series
BMW 3 Series - all you need to know
All-new BMW 3 Series review
BMW to release videos of new 3 Series
BMW to release videos of new 3 Series
BMW to release videos of new 3 Series
New BMW 3 Series revealed
BMW 3 Series prices and spec
BMW 3 Series video
Watch the official BMW video promoting the new car.
Pete Barden
|
VW Polo ACT review
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:35:00 GMT)
This is the Volkswagen Polo Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) model, which uses the VW Group’s cylinder shut-off technology to help improve fuel consumption and cut CO2 emissions under light engine loads.
We drove a prototype model, but a production version is due on sale later this year.
What’s it like to drive? The VW Polo ACT is impressively rounded. That’s because – apart from having a 138bhp version of VW’s 1.4 TSI petrol engine – it’s a standard Polo for much of the time. It drives, stops and steers every bit as well as the standard car – which is very well.
What's really clever about the Polo ACT, though, is that it's totally unnoticeable when two of its cylinders are shut down. The change from four- to two-cylinder operation – during periods of cruising, for example – and back again is completely imperceptible. If it wasn’t for the dashboard displaying a ‘two-cylinder mode’ message, you wouldn’t know anything out of the ordinary was occurring.
What’s it like inside? There’s nothing to distinguish the Polo ACT from any other model in the range, which means there’s the same excellent driving position, straightforward dashboard layout and high-quality materials you’ll find in any Polo.
Should I buy one? The Polo ACT is due to go on sale late in 2012. VW sources suggest that it’ll be a stand-alone model in the range. The 138bhp power output places it between the 1.2 TSI and GTI models, so a price of around £17,000 seems likely.
What Car? says…
Andy Pringle
|
Citroen Berlingo Multispace unveiled
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:25:00 GMT)
The 2012 Citroen Berlingo Multispace 2012 has been unveiled. It gets a restyled front end, revised interior design and cleaner diesel engines.
Emissions for the car's 75bhp and 90bhp 1.6-litre diesels have been cut from 139g/km to 135g/km, while CO2 figures for the other diesels are unchanged. The most powerful diesel engine now has 115bhp rather than 110bhp.
Changes to the Berlingo Multispace’s styling are focused on the front of the car, with a wider grille and new ‘chevron’ badge and headlight lenses. Redesigned door mirror - which improve aerodynamics - complete the exterior revisions.
Two new colours join the range – Nocciola brown and Belle Ila Blue. A ‘Black Pack’ adds black trim on the bumpers, mirrors and rear numberplate surround.
Prices aren't expected to change hugely from the current car, which ranges from £12,795-£16,620. The updated Berlingo Multispace goes on sale on April 2.
Tom Webster
|
Company car tax band changes explained
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:25:00 GMT)
The company car tax system changes on April 1, with four new bands to reflect the lower average CO2 emissions of many new cars.
Cars that are zero-rated for CO2 retain their exemption from company car tax, while those that emit 1-75g/km will continue to be taxed at 5%.
However, the current 76g-120g/km bracket is to be split into five sections.
The new company car tax bands are split as follows:
• 76-99g/km = 10%
• 100-104g/km = 11%
• 105-109g/km = 12%
• 110-114g/km = 13%
• 115-119g/km = 14%
The 3% surcharge for diesel cars remains, although no car will pay more than 35% tax.
This 35% top-level tax will apply to vehicles that emit more than 220g/km, down from the previous figure of 225g/km.
The changes are designed to reflect the fact that average CO2 emissions for new cars sold in the UK have fallen from 164.9g/km in 2007 to 138.1g/km in 2011.
Company car tax – how it's worked out
Company car tax is calculated using the price of the car, the CO2 emissions and the employee’s income-tax band.
A driver that pays 20% income tax and runs a VW Golf Bluemotion 1.6 TDI emitting 99g/km and costing £20,000 would calculate tax liability as follows:
99g/km = 10% company car tax
10% of £20,000 = £2000
20% of £2000 = £400
Total to pay: annual company car tax bill = £400, or £33.34 per month.
2012-2013 tax bands
Figures for diesel vehicles with 3% surcharge in brackets.
Zero emission vehicles – 0%
1-75g/km – 5%
76-99g/km – 10% (13%)
100-104g/km – 11% (14%)
105-109g/km – 12% (15%)
110-114g/km – 13% (16%)
115-119g/km – 14% (17%)
120-124g/km – 15% (18%)
125-129g/km – 16% (19%)
130-134g/km – 17% (20%)
135-139g/km – 18% (21%)
140-144g/km – 19% (22%)
145-149g/km – 20% (23%)
150-154g/km – 21% (24%)
155-159g/km – 22% (25%)
160-164g/km – 23% (26%)
165-169g/km – 24% (27%)
170-174g/km – 25% (28%)
175-179g/km – 26% (29%)
180-184g/km – 27% (30%)
185-189g/km – 28% (31%)
190-194g/km – 29% (32%)
195-199g/km – 30% (33%)
200-204g/km – 31% (34%)
205-209g/km – 32% (35%)
210-214g/km – 33% (35%)
215-219g/km – 34% (35%)
220g/km or more – 35% (35%)
Tom Webster
|
Geneva motor show 2012: Fiat 500L
(Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:50:00 GMT)
The Fiat 500L has been unveiled, ahead of its public debut at the Geneva motor show in March.
The five-door model is based on the Fiat 500 city car and will be a rival for the Citroen C3 Picasso and Nissan Note.
The 500L is 59cm longer, 15cm wider and 17cm higher than the 500. Fiat hasn’t yet released any images of the car’s interior, but we’d expect some features to boost practicality, including plenty of storage areas and a versatile rear seat folding mechanism.
Fiat has confirmed that the 500L will be available with 0.9 Twinair and 1.4-litre petrol engines and a 1.3 diesel, but it hasn’t released any more technical information.
The 500L will go on sale in Europe in late 2012, and is likely to arrive in the UK in early 2013.
More information on the 500L will be revealed nearer to the Geneva motor show.
Leo Wilkinson
|
Volkswagen gives hints of next Golf
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:28:00 GMT)
The next VW Golf will be safer, more spacious and better equipped than the current Golf.
Volkswagen gave its clearest pointer yet to what we can expect from the all-new Golf - which is due to go on sale in 2013 - at the launch of the new MQB platform. This will eventually underpin all Volkswagen models from the Polo to the Passat, as well as several other models from within the VW Group.
The first model on this new platform will be the new Audi A3, which is due to be unveiled at the Geneva motor show in March.
Using this platform, VW promises that its forthcoming cars will be better looking, more spacious, safer, lighter and more efficient.
By developing a new platform with several common components across all the models, VW has ensured that the cars are easier to build.
Also because the platform is easy to adapt, the cars can incorporate a wide variety of power sources, from conventional petrol and diesel engines to hybrids and all-electric powertrains.
Thanks to that same adaptability VW could also enter new market niches. As proof, they showed off the Cross Coupe, which was based on the Tiguan and unveiled at last year’s Tokyo motor show.
Through the new strategy, the position of the engines has been standardised across the range; and, because this is farther forward than in current models, VW says it can create better-looking cars with improved crash protection and more cabin space.
More economical
The cars will also be more economical, partly because the new engines are more efficient than previous units, and partly because the cars weigh less, thanks to the use of more lightweight components.
The company will also introduce the world’s first mass-market four-cylinder petrol engine with cylinder shut-off. At times of low load, the 1.4-litre unit automatically shuts down two cylinders to save fuel and reduce emissions.
See more: Audi A1 Sportback review
The engine line-up will also include two 1.2-litre units as well as the three-cylinder engines recently introduced on the Up.
Diesel engines include 1.6- and 2.0-litre units, and both are cleaner and more efficient than the old units.
To improve the way the cars drive, front-wheel-drive models such as the Golf will be available with a new VAQ (electronically controlled front-axle transverse differential) system, which is designed to eliminate torque steer.
Engineers also say that they will work to improve on the way the current Golf drives, sharpening its steering and making its brakes more responsive.
More technology
The new cars, including the Golf, will also benefit from technology that has previously been seen only in more upmarket models. This will include fatigue detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and a new system called multi-collision brakes.
This works by automatically applying the brakes after an initial collision in order to minimise any damage or injury in a secondary collision, and will be standard on the next Audi A3 and VW Golf.
Also available, will be the proactive occupant-protection system recently introduced on the VW Touareg. This works by automatically priming the safety systems to ensure they work at their most efficient in the event of an accident.
There will also be a new family of infotainment systems across the various models. In the case of Volkswagen cars such as the Golf, they will have an updated version of the current car’s touch-screen system.
The revisions will mean the touch-screen works with a gentler touch, while sensors will recognise when it is about to be touched, so that the screen changes immediately from display mode to interaction mode. It will also allow the user to ‘swipe’ across the screen, as on the latest tablets and smartphones.
Models from the other VW Group brands – Audi, Seat and Skoda for example - will use the same system, but with the user interface tailored to each brand. Audi, for instance, will continue with its four-button Quattrologic controls.
We expect the all-new Golf to go on sale in 2013. While this new strategy should make it cheaper to produce, we don’t expect it to be any cheaper to buy. Instead, we expect it to cost much the same, but to come with more technology and equipment.
Andy Pringle
|
Geneva motor show 2012: Smart Fortwo
(Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:09:00 GMT)
The face-lifted Smart Fortwo will be revealed at the 2012 Geneva motor show in March.
A largely cosmetic revision – which was first previewed on the electric Smart Fortwo ED at last year’s Frankfurt motor show – will give the Fortwo a more purposeful look, with a larger radiator grille, integrated logo and newly designed front aprons. There are also LED daytime running lights, 'muscular' sideskirts and a modified rear diffuser.
There are also three new alloy wheel designs, and seven paint schemes available.
Interior revisions include higher quality leather and fabric trims, along with optional leather trim on the instrument panel.
The 2012 Fortwo will be offered in five trims – Pure, Pulse, Passion, Brabus and Brabus Xclusiv – but it's likely that UK buyers will get the option of just three: Pulse, Passion and Brabus.
Smart has left the engine line-up unchanged from the current car, giving buyers the choice of a 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit with 70bhp, 84bhp, or 110bhp in the Brabus version. There's also a 54bhp 0.8-litre diesel engine.
The 2012 Smart Fortwo will cost from £8546.
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
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|