2014 Nissan Versa Note pricing starts at $13,990 in U.S.

The 2014 Nissan Versa Note, which goes on sale in U.S.  this month, is more than just the fourth all-new product to appear in Nissan showrooms in recent months - following the redesigns of Altima, Pathfinder and Sentra. It is also the dynamic next-generation of the vehicle that, combined with Versa Sedan, held the entry segment sales leadership for 20 consecutive months and 38 of the last 44 months.

The dynamic new styling, interior versatility and advanced technology of the Versa Note hatchback are expected to strengthen Nissan's leadership in this critical segment of the U.S. car market. The all-new Versa Note offers a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of just $13,990 USD for the 2014 Nissan Versa Note S - which is $680 USD less than the outgoing Versa Hatch S M/T.

The all-new Versa Note joins the second-generation Versa Sedan (introduced in 2012) in the Nissan lineup, bringing its own distinct look, feel and hatchback utility. It adds the global Note designation for the new generation design, along with an extensive list of key features such as:

• Class-exclusive Around View Monitor
• Energetic new exterior styling with steeply sloped windshield and sculpted body panels
• Available Active Grille Shutter for enhanced fuel economy
• Best-in-class 31 mpg city and 35 mpg combined fuel economy (CVT-equipped models)
• Smart packaging and class-leading cargo space, with available Divide-N-Hide Adjustable Floor (adjustable rear load floor height)
• Available NissanConnect with Navigation System with Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant, Google Services, Pandora compatibility and Bluetooth Streaming Audio

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2014 Nissan Versa Note models include:

Model/Engine/Transmission
Versa Note 1.6 S 5MT	$13,990 USD
Versa Note 1.6 S Plus CVT	$15,240 USD
Versa Note 1.6 SV CVT	$15,990 USD
Destination and handling $790

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How to make your kid the coolest in the neighborhood: Porsche go-kart

I wonder if these come in adult sizes. This would probably be my only chance ever owning a real Porsche.

Buying a Porsche for your kid... something not many parents can do. Now its (kinda) possible for us mere mortals.

The newest item from the Porsche Driver's Selection is a Go-Kart which puts children from the age of five behind the wheel of a sporty Porsche machine. The Go-Kart, which is about 5 feet long, is a new highlight in the children's program of the Porsche Lifestyle Collection and impresses because of its lightness: thanks to its unique construction, based on Porsche Intelligence Performance, the children's pedal-powered vehicle weighs a mere 55 pounds.

In addition to its exclusive design, another attractive feature of the Porsche Go-Kart is its use of high-quality drive components typically used for constructing bicycles. The composite wheel rims, with simulated center locks, are fitted with low-profile, inflatable tires with inner tubes. Other equipment includes a sport seat, plus both a back-pedal brake and a handbrake which ensure optimal deceleration. With its tubular steel frame, the Porsche Driver's Selection Go-Kart is suitable for children weighing up to 110 pounds with a height of up to 5 feet.

Asking price for this go-kart is $900.

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Artists gave Volvo XC60s completely new looks

These people really can see a car in a different light! For the third consecutive year, Volvo Car Switzerland organised the Volvo Art Session at the central train station in Zurich, Switzerland. Over the weekend of June 7-9, both emerging and established artists took part by giving a 2014 Volvo XC60 a completely new look. 

The theme of this year's Volvo Art Session in Zurich was "Designed Around You". On stage stood a white XC60 in front of a white dropback canvas. The international artists where invited to paint, spray and design to make their imaginations come alive. At the end of each session they created a three-dimensional work of art that only existed for a short while until the next artist painted over it. The final results of the constant transformation - pictures and clips - can be found at http://www.volvoartsession.com/.

"With the Art Session we want to demonstrate that Volvo Cars is a creative and innovative brand which places people at its heart. This unique art happening also enables us to reach new potential customers who hadn't considered Volvo previously," explains Anouk Poelmann, President of Volvo Car Switzerland.

The first Volvo Art Session was organised with contributing Swiss artists. Last year, the invited artists came from China. This year's event was an exhibition of international artists. "The diversity this year was immense, and this was really noticeable. Positive and creative energy flowed throughout the stage where the artists were working. Passers-by were constantly stopping and taking photographs of the work. Many stayed long enough to see the transformation of the car," explains Anouk Poelmann. Volvo Art Session was held at Zurich's central train station, one of the busiest covered public places in Europe.

This year's artists were the renowned German 3-D graffiti artist DAIM, the French-American duo Koralie & Supakitch, the rising street art stars Etam Cru from Poland, the Swiss graphic designer Blanda Eggenschwiler, the Canadian couple Lexr & Evoke, as well as the half-Chinese artist Daniel Man who is based in Germany.

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2014 Cadillac CTS sedan

When the all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS sedan arrives in dealerships this fall, it will offer more interior space, power and technology with more than 20 new standard features compared with the current model.

Inside and out, the third-generation CTS sedan grows, ascending into the heart of the midsize luxury market, with an all-new design that is longer, lower and leaner. The new CTS is five inches longer, expanding interior space, but also 244 pounds lighter than the previous model. It is expected to be the lightest car in its segment.

“CTS has always been Cadillac’s centerpiece, and as our brand expands and elevates the car properly grows to its true place” said David Leone, CTS executive chief engineer. “With last year’s addition of the award-winning ATS compact luxury sedan, CTS will directly challenge the luxury midsize competition with uncompromised performance, luxury and technology.”

The 2014 CTS standard model will start at $46,025, including $925 destination. Three Collections of option packages – Luxury, Performance and Premium – will be offered with either the 2.0T turbocharged four cylinder or 3.6L naturally aspirated V6 engine in either rear- or all-wheel drive.

CTS will be offered with a choice of three powertrains, including a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 272 horsepower and goes from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds – 1.5 seconds faster than the outgoing model. Standard front Brembo brakes with ferritic-nitro carburizing, or FNC, anti-corrosion rotors give CTS braking performance that Cadillac expects to be best in the segment. Magnetic Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension and a hallmark of V-Series models, is now standard on base models with 18-inch wheels.

Selectable drive modes will allow drivers to adjust the vehicle’s performance dynamics for touring, ice and snow, or sport driving. The CTS Vsport model features the new Cadillac Twin-Turbo 3.6L V6 engine with an SAE-certified 420 horsepower and a “track” drive mode with specific Magnetic Ride Control calibration and enhanced throttle progression for greater track performance.

The Vsport model contains the highest-performing components, led by the all-new Twin Turbo V6. The CTS Vsport model starts at $59,995, including $925 destination, and comes equipped with an electronic limited slip differential and eight-speed automatic transmission in RWD only.

Inside, all CTS models are equipped with CUE, Cadillac’s system for connectivity and control featuring an eight-inch fully reconfigurable touch screen. CUE brings tablet-like functionality into the CTS with functions such as haptic feedback to confirm selections, proximity sensing to reveal hidden icons, gesture recognition and capacitive touch. A 5.7-inch display in the instrument cluster allows the driver to control radio, phone and navigation functions through steering wheel controls without having to take his eyes off the road.

CTS will come with an 11-speaker Bose premium audio system with HD radio capability. Users will have several options for streaming portable media devices with three USB ports and one auxiliary and SD card port.

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VW Passat Estate again a class winner at Tow Car Awards

Volkswagen’s Passat Estate has once again affirmed its place at the top of the towing tree, having retained its class title at the Tow Car Awards for the third year running.

The Tow Car Awards are a joint venture between Practical Caravan, What Car? and The Camping and Caravanning Club, with caravans and technical support supplied by the Swift Group. The awards were judged this year by a team which included the editor of Practical Caravan magazine, the tow car editor ofPractical Caravan, the deputy road test editor of What Car? and the technical department at The Camping and Caravanning Club.

Each car goes through a series of towing tests at the MIRA proving ground, including 30-60 mph acceleration, 30-0 mph braking, a hill start and an emergency lane-change test.  Cars aren’t just rated for their towing ability; What Car?’s expert road test team score each car for regular driving, safety, running costs and value for money.  The Camping and Caravanning Club’s technical team check practical details such as boot space, how easily extension mirrors can be fitted, and whether the spare wheel provision is suitable for towing.

The aim is to find cars which are great to tow with, but which are also good value and easy to live with in everyday driving. A total of 46 cars were tested this year at the MIRA testing ground in Warwickshire.

Following judging, the Passat Estate Sport 2.0-litre 177 PS TDI BlueMotion Technology, won the ‘1425-1579 kg’ class, beating stiff competition from Mazda, Hyundai and Volvo.  Commenting on the vehicle’s performance, David Motton, tow car editor at Practical Caravan said: ‘This is the third year in a row the Passat Estate has topped the second weight category.  As a tow car, a daily commuter, or the family taxi, the Volkswagen quietly and efficiently gets on with the job.

‘The Passat’s towing credentials are what we’ll concentrate on here, and after two years at the top of the class, they were never in doubt.  Stability at speed is excellent. In everyday driving the Volkswagen continues to unobtrusively make your life easy, thanks to a comfortable ride and excellent refinement.  It’s very quiet at speed, and a sound driving position means long journeys are no chore.  A very capable all-rounder with no major flaws.’

Remarking on the wins, Robert Hazelwood, Director of Volkswagen UK, said: ‘I’m delighted that the Passat Estate has once again been awarded this important accolade. For the third year running this car has proved itself not only as a highly capable tow car but also a top all-rounder.  The towing market is a significant one for us and we’re grateful for the recognition we’ve received from the judges.’ 

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Discovery 4 winner of 2013 Tow Car Awards’ 1,900kg+ category

The Land Rover Discovery 4 has secured an exceptional fourth successive victory in the annual Tow Car Awards. Every year since its launch, the model has proved itself the class of the field in the 1,900kg+ category in the UK’s most prestigious towing honours.

Announcing the success for the Discovery 4 3.0 SDV6 XS, David Motton, Tow Car Editor of Practical Caravan magazine praised Discovery 4’s all-round qualities and enduring status as the best in its class.

Motton said: “As an all-rounder, the Discovery remains the best big tow car you can buy. No car this big and tall should handle the lane-change test with such confidence, but the Discovery stays firmly in control, however lively the caravan gets behind it.

“The Discovery is one of the most practical tow cars you can buy at any price, thanks to plentiful luggage space, load adaptive suspension, trailer stability control and a well-installed tow bar.”

He added that towing ability was just one aspect of the Land Rover’s all-round capability and appeal: “It’s a fine car to drive without a caravan too, thanks to effortless performance, a commanding driving position and a supremely smooth ride.”

The Tow Car Awards are a joint venture between Practical Caravan and What Car? magazines and the Camping and Caravanning Club. Cars are put through a series of towing tests and are further assessed on regular driving quality, safety, running costs and value for money. The Camping and Caravanning Club’s technical team check practical details, such as boot space and the ease with which towing accessories can be fitted.

The Discovery 4 3.0 SDV6 XS has at its heart Land Rover’s twin-turbocharged, direct injection 24-valve V6 diesel engine, matched to a smooth and efficient eight speed automatic transmission. With 256 PS and an impressive 600Nm of torque available from just 2,000rpm, it is perfectly equipped to excel as a tow car.

Powertrain performance is supported by the added benefit of features such as the standard-fit Trailer Stability Assist, which monitors trailer behaviour and applies selective wheel braking to correct any potential problem, and Tow Assist, a reversing aid that is included in the optional Surround Camera System.

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Dacia Duster hauls in award at budget 4x4 class

Dacia continues to pull in fans after striking gold at the Towcar Awards last night. Its flagship Duster was named Best Budget 4x4 at the ceremony at The Sculpture Gallery in Woburn Abbey, Bedfordshire, UK.

Judges, including the editor of Practical Caravan magazine, described the shockingly affordable multi-award winner as “a lot of tow car for very little money”.

The champion model, the Duster dCi 110 Ambiance 4x4, costs just £13,495 and is the perfect match for happy campers and caravanners who like to keep a close eye on their spending.

Judges added: “That price isn’t a misprint. For less than you’d pay for the tiny Kia Rio three-door, Dacia will sell you a five-seat 4x4…the Duster is undeniably a bargain.

“It makes a decent tow car, too…In fact, we’d be happy to tow on long motorway journeys with the Duster.”

The Towcar Awards is a joint venture between Practical Caravan, What Car? and The Camping and Caravanning Club, with caravans and technical support supplied by the Swift Group. Each car goes through a series of towing tests at the MIRA proving ground in the Midlands, including 30-60mph acceleration, 30-0mph braking, a hill start and an emergency lane-change test.

Cars, however, are not just rated for their towing ability. What Car?’s expert road test team score each for regular driving, safety, running costs and value for money. The Camping and Caravanning Club’s technical team check practical details such as boot space, how easily extension mirrors can be fitted, and whether the spare wheel provision is suitable for towing. Judges also included the deputy road test editor of What Car? and the technical department at The Camping and Caravanning Club. 

Romanian smart buy brand Dacia, a subsidiary of the French carmaker Renault, has made an enemy of the unnecessary and makes a simple range of cleverly designed, high quality vehicles which unashamedly favouring function over frivolity.

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Mazda6 Best Petrol Tow Car 2013

The all-new Mazda6 claimed its sixth award this year after it was named as the ‘Best Petrol Tow Car’ at the Tow Car Awards 2013, held at Woburn Abbey in Bedfordshire last night (13 June).  The Mazda6 2.0-litre 165ps Sport Saloon petrol model won the title after rigorous testing against rivals from Ford, Peugeot and Vauxhall and was praised for its proven capability as a tow car in terms of its practicality, power and value for money.  

Each of the shortlisted candidates were put through a series of towing tests at the MIRA proving ground in the Midlands, including 30-60mph acceleration, 30-0mph braking, a hill start and an emergency lane-change test.

Recognising the all-new Mazda6 as the winner, David Motton, Tow Car Editor at Practical Caravan and award judge, said: “If you need proof that diesel power isn’t a must for a tow car, the Mazda6 2.0-litre provides it.  In the lane-change test the Mazda6 felt firmly in charge, even on faster runs.  Inside, there’s plenty of space for those in the front and lots of legroom in the back.  Our favourite petrol tow car is stable and good value.”

The panel of judges also included Deputy Road Test Editor of What Car? and the technical department at the Camping and Caravanning Club.  The Tow Car Awards is a joint venture between both outlets as well as Practical Caravan magazine.

To assess the shortlisted cars, each model is put through the same tests to identify their towing abilities as well as to evaluate value for money and ease to live with for everyday driving.  Cars are also judged on how easily extension mirrors can be fitted, whether the spare wheel provision is suitable for towing, as well as safety and boot space.

According to Motton, practicality judges found that the all-new Mazda6: “swallowed a typical family’s holiday luggage with space to spare.”

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Jaguar XF Sportbrake took class honours in the Tow Car Awards 2013

Competing against several premium and SUV competitors in the highly competitive 1725-1899kg category, the Jaguar XF Sportbrake 3.0 V6 Diesel Premium Luxury was named best-in-class, taking up the mantle of the Jaguar XF 2.2D saloon which won the same category last year and which was also named overall winner of the Tow Car Awards 2012.

Now in its seventh year, the 2013 Tow Car Awards saw a total of 46 vehicles assessed at the MIRA Proving Ground by an expert panel of judges including the editor of Practical Caravan magazine; the tow car editor of Practical Caravan; the deputy road test editor of What Car? and the technical department at The Camping and Caravanning Club.

David Motton, tow car editor, Practical Caravan, commented: “This makes it the second year in a row for the Jaguar XF, but this time it’s the turn of the Sportbrake to take the honours. An exceptional tow car and a refined executive express.”

Noting how stable and secure it remained during strong crosswinds and abrupt lane changes, the Jaguar XF Sportbrake was also praised for its performance, refinement, cabin execution and overall practicality.

Jeremy Hicks, Managing Director, Jaguar UK, commented: "Winning this award demonstrates just how successfully the new Jaguar XF Sportbrake combines luxury and performance with real-world practicality and versatility, while also highlighting the class-leading engineering that goes into every new Jaguar. Winning in this highly competitive category is an achievement Jaguar is very proud of."

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Honda towed the Green Award home

Honda’s new Civic 1.6 i-DTEC ES has scooped the Green Award at the 2013 Tow Car Awards; as well as beating off stiff competition to be crowned the most fuel efficient model in this year’s judging.

The Green Award is based on a combination of fuel efficiency, low emissions and towing ability. The Civic was independently tested towing a Swift caravan - weighted to 85 per cent of its kerbweight - the maximum weight recommended for secure and stable towing. The Civic capably carried out its duties pulling its caravan from 30-60mph in a very respectable 18.7 seconds.

The Tow Car Awards is a joint venture between Practical Caravan, What Car? and The Camping and Caravanning Club, with caravans and technical support supplied by the Swift Group. Each car goes through a series of towing tests at the MIRA proving ground, including 30-60mph acceleration, 30-0mph braking, a hill start and an emergency lane-change test.

The judges particularly singled out the Civic for it’s true MPG performance. David Motton, tow car editor, Practical Caravan, commented: “Some cars get nowhere near their official fuel economy figures in normal driving, but in independent testing by the What Car? True MPG team the Civic 1.6 i-DTEC achieved 66.4mpg. That makes it the most fuel-efficient car in this year’s tests.”

Phil Crossman, Managing Director at Honda (UK) added: “This award once again confirms the new Civic’s status as a fantastic package of power, performance and efficiency. It might be one of the smallest cars which took part in the judging but it’s proved to be more than capable at towing while maintaining excellent fuel economy.”

David Motton, tow car editor, Practical Caravan concludes: “The Civic is the car to choose if you want excellent fuel economy and stable towing. It’s a worthy winner of this year’s Green Award.”

Judges of the Tow Car Awards include the editor of Practical Caravan magazine, the tow car editor of Practical Caravan, the deputy road test editor of What Car?, and the technical department at The Camping and Caravanning Club.

Cars aren’t just rated for their towing ability. What Car?’s expert road test team score each car for regular driving, safety, running costs and value for money. The Camping and Caravanning Club’s technical team check practical details such as boot space, how easily extension mirrors can be fitted, and whether the spare wheel provision is suitable for towing. Forty six cars were tested as part of this year’s awards, with the aim of finding cars which are great to tow with, good value and easy to live with in everyday driving.

The new Civic 1.6 i-DTEC offers a class-leading combination of fuel economy and performance – emitting only 94 g/km of CO₂ with a powerful 120PS. The debut of the new small diesel engine on the British-built Civic marks an exciting new chapter in the history of Honda diesels. The engine is the first to be launched in Europe under Honda’s flagship Earth Dreams Technology environmental programme; offering customers an outstanding balance of high fuel economy, low emissions and exciting performance.

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Octavia wins 'Tow Car of the Year' award

New Škoda Octavia has been honoured as ‘Tow Car of the Year 2013’ by a panel of industry and media experts in UK. It was voted number one from a list of 46 vehicles. The car only arrived in showrooms on 16 March and this is its first award.

Octavia was available to be considered for the top prize after it secured number one spot in the ‘up to 1,424kg’ weight category. Judges included the Editor and Tow Car Editor of Practical Caravan magazine, the Deputy Road Test Editor of What Car?, and the technical department at The Camping and Caravanning Club. The Octavia they used for the test was the 2.0-litre TDI 150 Elegance.

Speaking on behalf of the panel, David Motton, Tow Car Editor, Practical Caravan, commented: “With three out of five weight classes awarded to new models this year, the strength in depth has never been greater. That makes the ŠkodaA Octavia’s win all the more remarkable. The Octavia has been given the nod over brilliant cars like the BMW 330d Touring and Jaguar XF Sportbrake.”

The ŠKODA Octavia’s 1,330kg kerbweight makes it the lightest overall winner in the seven-year history of the Tow Car Awards. That means it’s best suited to pulling relatively light tourers, but with caravan manufacturers building increasingly desirable lightweight models, the Octavia has solid appeal for the towing community.

“Owning a car that treads lightly on the scales needn’t be a barrier to enjoying your caravanning,” added Motton. “The Škoda tows brilliantly, is extremely practical, good to drive and costs less than you’d think. Most importantly, it proves that a great tow car doesn’t need to be heavy, thirsty or expensive.”

In its weight category, the Octavia impressed the judges because even when driven hard in a lane-change test, it stuck to its course no matter how much the caravan behind slid around.

The Škoda claimed the overall prize, thanks to its huge cabin and impressive value. “No other small family hatchback packs in so much space for passengers or luggage,” explained Motton. “In fact, the new generation is not really a ‘small’ family hatchback at all, with enough head and legroom to rival larger cars, especially for those travelling in the rear seats.”

The car’s generous 590 litres of luggage space also found fans among the judges, who said it was easily able to copy with a typical touring load.

The Tow Car Awards is a joint venture between Practical Caravan, What Car? and The Camping and Caravanning Club, with caravans and technical support supplied by the Swift Group. Each car goes through a series of towing tests on a closed test track, including 30-60mph acceleration, 30-0mph braking, a hill start and an emergency lane-change test. The aim is to find cars which are great to tow with, but which are also good value and easy to live with in everyday driving.

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World’s 30 millionth Golf drives off the assembly line

The seven generations of Golf

As landmarks go, this is a pretty big one: the world’s 30 millionth Golf has rolled off the assembly line at the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg – a new production record for the most successful European car ever. Production of the original Golf began in early 1974. Since then, statistically speaking, an average of over 2,000 people have purchased a new Golf every day for the past 39 years. The 30 millionth car is a Golf TDI BlueMotion; this recently introduced model has a fuel consumption value of just 88.3 mpg, making it the most fuel efficient Golf ever built.

On Thursday, Prof. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, also officially accepted the “Car of the Year 2013” award for the Golf conferred by the 60 member international jury for the highly esteemed award. Prof. Winterkorn commented on both of these events: “The history of the Golf is also the history of automotive progress. With technologies such as the safe front-wheel drive of the first Golf, the debut of the TDI in the third Golf, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the dual clutch gearbox of the fourth Golf and the standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking System of the new generation, this car has continued to democratise progress. An optimum of safety, comfort and driving fun are no longer a question of money thanks to the Golf. And so our bestseller lives up to the Volkswagen name.” The milestone vehicle will be officially on display for employees of the Wolfsburg plant this coming Saturday at the plant’s open day.

The seven Golf generations that wrote history.

Golf I (1974 to 1983): “It all began in 1974 with a revolution,” is how Klaus Bischoff, Head of Design for the Volkswagen brand describes it. “The step from the Beetle to the Golf was revolutionary. A new vehicle layout was created with the conversion from an air-cooled rear engine to a water-cooled front engine and from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive. In terms of the car’s styling, Volkswagen designers switched from round shapes to a rectangular design structure – based on the legendary design study by Giorgio Giugiaro”.

Golf II (1983 to 1991): This was the Golf in which Volkswagen technologies such as the controlled catalytic converter (1984), ABS (1986) and all-wheel drive (1986) were introduced. In this generation, the model series also advanced to become a definitive icon. Marc Lichte, lead exterior designer for Volkswagen recalls: “Back then, one of the key moments in the history of the Golf was the decision by board members to further develop the styling of the Golf I and conceptualise the Golf II based on its “visual DNA”. This set everything into motion, and Volkswagen created the foundation for continuous development of the model series.”

Golf III (1991 to 1997): In 1991, Volkswagen initiated a new era of safety in the third generation. For one, the Golf III was the first model in the series to offer front airbags in 1992; for another, great progress in the area of body manufacturing led to further improvements in crash properties. The first TDI engine of the model series was also introduced in this Golf (1993).

Golf IV (1997 to 2003): Under the direction of the former Head of Design (Group) Hartmut Warkuß, a precise design was created that would pave the way for the future of Volkswagen. Today, experts look upon the Golf IV as a design icon and a pioneer for the series. But this Golf was also an engineering innovator with technologies such as ESC (1998) and the dual clutch gearbox (2002).

Golf V (2003 to 2008): It was the Golf, its comfort, dynamics and above all its quality that left many a competitor of the upper mid-class trailing behind. A value that illustrates the stability of the laser-welded body is the 35 per cent gain in torsional rigidity when the Golf V made its debut in 2003. The first Golf BlueMotion (4.5 l/100 km fuel consumption) – based on the Golf V – was created in 2007.

Golf VI (2008 to 2012): The body, once again welded by laser, was so safe that it performed with flying colours in EuroNCAP crash testing, attaining its maximum five star rating. The triumph of the TSI engines (high-tech petrol engines) and conversion of the turbodiesels (TDI) to the common rail system led to more dynamic performance and better fuel economy. The forerunner was the second Golf BlueMotion, which offered a combined fuel consumption value of just 3.8 l/100 km.

Golf VII (since 2012): Weight was reduced by up to 100 kg in the seventh generation Golf, reversing the much discussed upward weight spiral. Fuel consumption was reduced by as much as over 23 per cent compared to the previous model, depending on the specific engine. The forerunner of this movement is the Golf TDI BlueMotion with a combined fuel consumption of just 3.2 l/100km, and it is also the 30 millionth car produced. The Golf VII will definitely go down in history as the compact model in which an entire armada of new assistance systems made its debut. They are systems such as PreCrash preventive occupant protection and the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System – technologies that were more likely to be offered in the premium class than in the compact class previously. That too signifies a democratisation of automotive progress.

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Alfa Romeo unveils technical information about the Alfa 4C

Alfa Romeo has unveiled more technical and production information about the forthcoming Alfa 4C.

The ‘compact supercar’ embodies the Alfa brand with Italian style, sporty performance and engineering excellence offering driving satisfaction in safety.

The captivating coupé with two bucket seats uses technologies and materials derived from the 8C Competizione - carbon, aluminium, rear-wheel drive - and technologies from the latest Alfa Romeo models, but developed to enhance the sports appeal of the new car.

This is demonstrated by the new 1750 Turbo Petrol engine with direct injection and aluminium block, the sophisticated “ALFA TCT” twin dry clutch transmission and the Alfa D.N.A. selector with the brand-new Race mode.

Built in Modena, birthplace of the world's most famous sports cars, the Alfa 4C’s production process integrates Alfa Romeo’s design roles and Maserati’s manufacturing functions with engineering and technological contribution from Italian world-wide leaders in the component industry for high-performance sports cars.

To design a car that is both exclusive and achievable for Alfa Romeo fans across the world, the Alfa 4C’s designers focused on lightness and efficiency over greater horsepower, which would have impacted the purchase and maintenance costs.

Combining high technology and craftsmanship through an advanced mix of hi-tech materials which combine stiffness and strength but also with reduced weight, the Alfa 4C’s weight to power ratio is less than 4kg/HP with a total dry weight of just 895kg, making 4C one of the lightest cars in the world.

CARBON FIBRE

The Alfa 4C uses 10% carbon fibre which represents 25% of the car’s overall volume. Carbon fibre currently offers the best weight/stiffness efficiency. The structural function monocoque, designed by the Alfa Romeo specialised team, makes up the central, load-bearing cell of the chassis yet weighs just 65kg.

Joining state-of-the-art Formula 1 inspired manufacturing technology and the manual craftsmanship typical of the Italian artisans, Alfa Romeo is the only brand capable to assure a production of over 1,000 pieces per year.

ALUMINIUM

Aluminium was used for the roof reinforcement cage and the front and rear frameworks. To reduce weight but increase stiffness, the designers replaced the traditional rectangular strut section with a newly designed section, manufactured using the innovative 'Cobapress' process, which combines fusion and forging under press for a lighter and safer framework.

Aluminium in the hybrid-type front brake discs with aluminium bell and cast iron ring gear also reduced weight by up to 2kg per disc, in addition to providing better braking. 

SMC (SHEET MOULDING COMPOUND)

Using SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound), a low-density and high resistance composite material, for the body enabled a 20% weight reduction in comparison to traditional sheet steel. The Alfa Romeo 4C is the first standard production car to achieve such a high percentage of low-density SMC. With a weight of 1.5 g/cm³ this material is decidedly lighter than steel (~7.8 g/cm³) and aluminium (~2.7 g/cm³), besides being more malleable in terms of design it also disperses noise well for acoustic comfort. Low-density SMC also reduces the number of components and operations required together with shorter assembly times, thus lowering production costs.

PUR-RIM (INJECTED POLYURETHANE)

The PUR-RIM (injected polyurethane) on the bumpers and wings weighs 20% less than steel and is suitable for creating complex design elements, such as the 4C wing, and for keeping an ideal cost/production volume ratio.

WINDOWS

With the window glass, the overall weight was reduced by a real silhouette-thinning approach: all the window glasses are on average around 10% thinner than those normally fitted on cars, allowing for an average weight reduction of 15%. The windscreen is also only 4 mm thick – difficult to obtain on such thin glass with the car’s particularly aerodynamic shape.

QUALITY CONTROL

To ensure the utmost quality of each Alfa 4C, the production process takes place in dedicated 4C workshops with the ‘testing’ and ‘finishing’ areas shared with the Maserati production.

Every day several sample bodies are checked by a dedicated team on over 400 high precision measurement points to ensure the body is perfect from a geometric and dimensional standpoint.

Once the car’s manufacture is complete, every detail is strictly checked by systems: from the climate control system operation to the mechanical component settings and the dynamic behaviour.

Each Alfa 4C produced is also road-tested for 40 km by an experienced test-driver – a practice commonly used for the most prestigious supercars.

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Pre-war Austin 7s still making epic journeys

The trio of A7s in Argentina on their way to New York

The annual National Austin 7 Rally, organised by the 750 Motor Club, takes place on Sunday 7^th July in the grounds of the Beaulieu attraction, home to the National Motor Museum. Among a wide range of fascinating displays and demonstrations of driving skills will be some extreme examples of just what an extraordinary little car the pre-war Austin 7 is – and how extraordinary some of its owners are!

Guy Butcher and Eunice Kratky recently completed an epic 18,300 mile journey in a 1928 Austin 7 Chummy – taking eight and a half months to drive across the USA from Baltimore to Alaska and then all the way down to the tip of South America at Tierra del Fuego. Their aim was to raise funds for children with special needs and their families and to date they have collected over £10,000. You can read their story at www.bespk.com and they will be with their car at the National Austin 7 Rally.

Going in the opposite direction, south to north, a group of three Austin 7s is currently making its way from Buenos Aires to New York – an 11,000 mile journey across twelve countries and two continents. They are recreating the remarkable journey of the late John Coleman, who, in 1959, drove the route alone in his Austin Chummy. That was in the days when there were no mobile phones, no internet, and in some places, no real roads!  If everything goes according to plan the intrepid modern-day adventurers will bring their cars to the rally at Beaulieu in July. You can follow their escapades online at www.austinsinamericas.co.uk/

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Toyota building a car on Twitter

Toyota is taking to Twitter to reveal the principles and processes it uses to build cars at its UK plant in a world-first social media project. Next Wednesday (19 June), it will broadcast hundreds of tweets that will follow the production of a new Toyota Auris Hybrid, from raw steel to a vehicle ready for customer delivery.

Minute-by-minute, across 14 hours from 6am, Factory to Forecourt will chart panel stamping, welding, painting, plastics, assembly and quality control. As well as explaining the different activities involved – there are 325 separate processes on the assembly line alone – it will demonstrate how the principles of the Toyota Production System are fundamental to the way the people work in the factory and ensure the best built-in quality for owners.

Throughout the day, followers will be able to interact with the Toyota team, adding their comments and asking questions.

The Toyota Production System is a globally renowned business philosophy that has been adopted by thousands of businesses worldwide and not just within automotive and manufacturing. In the UK, for example, the National Health Service has used it to help improve its quality control processes. The Factory to Forecourt project has been designed to provide a valuable educational resource, for school and further education students alike, across a wide range of disciplines.

The @ToyotaFactory Twitter feed will include links to images and more detailed information resources including specially commissioned film footage from inside the Burnaston plant. The videos include contributions from members of the workforce, giving personal insights into how the Toyota Production System gives every worker on the line responsibility for quality, at every stage.

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Loeb's first test with Peugeot 208 T16 Pikes Peak car

Pikes Peak, in Colorado, USA, underwent something of a French invasion recently as Peugeot Sport and Sébastien Loeb set up camp on the famous mountain for the first official practice sessions ahead of the 2013 Pikes Peak Hill Climb. The result of the team’s first attempts at the course was particularly encouraging.

During the morning briefs ahead of the first official practice runs, the Race Director invited the drivers to take extra care, since water from melting roadside snow had frozen overnight. Indeed, Pikes Peak’s craggy profile culminates at an altitude of 4,301 metres, and this part of Colorado is genuine mountain country. As any experienced climber will tell you, big mountains are places where Man is not always in charge. They call for humility, patience and hard work before making a strike for the summit and – why not? – taking the top prize on 30^th June; it is therefore vital not to rush things, and anyone who fails to take the challenge one step at a time runs the risk of suffering a bad bout of altitude sickness.

The one-step-at-a-time approach, in any case, was the method preferred by Peugeot Sport and Sébastien Loeb for their first weekend of practice… The first step was to put the engine through its paces on a test bench in Colorado Springs to see how it performed at altitude. That was followed by a shakedown run with the car at the town’s nearby ‘Speedway’ in order to sign off the changes that have been made since the car’s final test run in France ahead of its journey to the States. Meanwhile, Sébastien Loeb took time to familiarise himself with the 156 turns that make up the infamous course, assisted by his co-driver, Daniel Elena.

The aim of the nine climbs was to ensure that the World Rally Champion was able to associate each corner with a precise mental ‘pace note’, a task facilitated and honed by his vast experience of world class rallying. Only once all these preparations had been completed was it time to give the 208 T16 Pikes Peak its first taste of the famous hill climb, with Saturday’s run devoted to the first part of the course, and Sunday’s to the second, higher part.

“The result of the weekend is globally positive,” reported Peugeot Sport’s Director Bruno Famin. “Our ‘beast’ seems to suit Sébastien, to the extent that we have hardly made any changes to its set-up. The car’s potential is borne out by the fact that we posted the fastest time on each run. That said, last year’s winner Rhys Millen, who is something of a benchmark here, it still familiarising himself with his own car and there was very little real opposition. The chief lesson, therefore, is that the 208 T16 Pikes Peak is a well-sorted car and that our busy programme in the past four months seems to have taken us in the right direction, and we need to continue in the same vein.”

“I feel very confident with the car,” confirmed Sébastien Loeb. “That’s a reassuring start, if only because of the speeds we get up to here. We are already getting close to the limit in many places. All we need to do now is make some detail changes and we will be ready for the Big Day!” For that, the team will benefit from three more official practice sessions at the end of this week and that will mark a fresh phase in Peugeot Sport’s acclimatisation process.

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Chavy Captiva available in Europe

Being widely acknowledged as the creator of the entire SUV segment with the Suburban in 1935, Chevrolet has more than 75 years of experience in designing  sport utility vehicles. At the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, the brand presented the restyled edition of its Captiva compact SUV in Europe for the first time, and now it is available to order.

The new Captiva introduces several changes to the rear and front of the vehicle, including new LED tail lamps, angular chrome exhaust tips and a remodelled bumper. Up front, it sports a lower bumper, a new grille mesh as well as restyled fog lamps. New 18-inch alloy wheels further enhance Captiva's road presence.

The Captiva now features keyless entry and start as standard on upper trims. Inside, the vehicle will boast fresh seat colors, new fabrics (upper specifications: leather seats), and restyled trims in the instrument panel. A dual-zone climate system, an ambient lighting package and heated rear seats provide even more comfort on select specifications.

Offering up to seven seats, along with additional convenience features, the restyled Captiva is a typical SUV for the family.

"Captiva is the ideal companion for those who want to have some adventure, but feel that they could do with more space, capability and that extra bit of convenience," says Susan Docherty, President and Managing Director of Chevrolet and Cadillac Europe.

The new Captiva is available in 3 trims, with LS starting at £21,295, LT starting at £26,995 and top level spec LTZ starting at £29,995. It is available in 2.2VCDi both automatic and manual. 

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McLaren and Forza Motorsport 5 collaboration will give competition winner the ride of a lifetime

Now, here's a cool competion. McLaren Automotive has teamed up with Xbox to offer one of the best seats of the summer at the 2013 Festival of Speed: the passenger seat of the McLaren P1 (pictured above) while it makes its global dynamic debut at the world famous event.

One lucky competition winner will be given the chance to experience the famous Goodwood Hill course, and be part of the McLaren 50^th anniversary celebrations as a passenger in the McLaren P1.  The competition is offered through a collaboration with Turn 10 Studios, a subsidiary of Microsoft Studios, and follows the recent announcement of the Xbox One console which saw the reveal of the McLaren P1™ as the cover star for the forthcoming Forza Motorsport® 5. Further details of the flagship motorsport title were then given at E3, the annual video game conference and show in Los Angeles earlier this week, by Dan Greenawalt, Creative Director for Turn 10 Studios.

The McLaren P1™ is currently in the final development stages, ahead of first deliveries later this year, and will be a rare sight when production begins, with only 375 examples being built. Few therefore will ever have the opportunity to experience the mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and highly effective electric motor, which generate 916PS. The global dynamic debut of the car will form part of the brand’s 50^thanniversary celebrations, making this a truly unique opportunity to be part of the heritage of McLaren.

Visit www.ForzaMcLarenRide.com to be in with a chance winning the ride of a lifetime.

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Bentley returning to race tracks with GT3

First Bentley racer for a decade almost track ready

Since the world debut of Bentley’s GT3 Concept Racer at the Paris Auto Salon in September 2012, a dedicated team of Bentley engineers has been developing the Continental GT3 in preparation for Bentley’s highly anticipated return to the track. Building on a rich racing heritage spanning ninety years, the new Continental GT3 is set to explore the extreme potential of Bentley’s iconic Grand Tourer and exploit the performance DNA contained within every Bentley.

With expert guidance and cooperation from Bentley’s GT3 technical partner, M-Sport Ltd1, the race-ready version of the Continental has been taking shape over the last six months. Leading the project is Brian Gush, Bentley’s Director of Motorsport, who took the company to victory at Le Mans in 2003. He comments: “Motorsport is an integral part of Bentley, and the performance and endurance qualities of all of our road cars reflect this racing heritage. Not one single part of the GT3 has escaped our attention, and the result is a car that can compete with the field in terms of factors such as power, weight and aerodynamics.”

Powered by a race-configured version of Bentley’s highly efficient 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, the GT3 puts its power to the road via a six-speed sequential racing gearbox. Double wishbone suspension, four-way adjustable dampers and competition brakes make up the chassis system, while more than 1000 kg of weight has been saved over the Continental GT road car by removing the equipment and parts that make the road car such a luxurious and refined Grand Tourer such as double glazing, over fifty ECUs and extensive electrical systems. The exquisitely trimmed Continental GT doors have been replaced by race versions, weighing just 12% of the originals.

The iconic silhouette of the road car is retained as the main body shell is almost a direct carryover, while doors, boot lid and bonnet are now hand-crafted in carbon fibre. The bodyshell itself benefits from a comprehensive FIA-specification roll cage, more than doubling its stiffness. Meanwhile, the carbon fibre racing seat has been trimmed by the craftsmen and women of the Crewe factory, who have also meticulously stitched the racing steering wheel and door pulls, just as they would on a Continental GT road car.

The Continental GT3 will soon be ready to begin a test programme ahead of its race debut.

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Vettel extended Red Bull contract

Sebastian Vettel is a three-time World Champion and still one of the nicest guys on paddock.

Infiniti Red Bull Racing team confirmed today that World Champion Sebastian Vettel has extended his multi-year contract with the team until the end of 2015.

A previous member of the Red Bull Junior squad, Sebastian first drove for Red Bull Racing in 2009. During his Formula One career, the 25-year-old has achieved 29 wins, 51 podiums and 39 pole positions. He is the current Formula One World Champion and also a triple World Champion, having retained the title since he first won it in 2010. 

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2014 Ford Fiesta achieved impressive 41 mpg

The new 2014 Ford Fiesta has achieved 41 mpg (5.74 l/100km) in EPA testing. Fiesta is currently the only subcompact car to surpass 40 mpg.

 

The fuel economy claim is for Fiesta SE with the Super Fuel Economy package that includes Ford’s 1.6-liter engine and PowerShift automatic transmission. Along with the EPA-certified 41 mpg highway rating, Fiesta achieves 30 mpg (7.84 l/100km) in the city and 34 (6.92 l/100km) mpg combined.

 

The claim is significant because fuel economy is often cited as the No. 1 reason for purchase consideration in the subcompact class, according to Ford data. The new 2014 Fiesta will be arriving in dealers soon.

 

“The 2014 model is shaping up to be a game changer for Fiesta,” said Liz Elser, Ford Fiesta marketing manager. “With the addition of Fiesta ST and the award-winning 1.0-liter EcoBoost, we have fantastic performance and fuel efficiency. But with today’s news, buyers will have a fuel-efficient Fiesta no matter which they choose.”

 

Two key technologies help Fiesta achieve fuel economy leadership – its advanced aerodynamics and dry, dual-clutch PowerShift automatic transmission.

 

In terms of aerodynamics, the SFE package adds rear spoiler, side air deflectors, underbody shields, lower grille blockers, low-rolling-resistance tires and cruise control. Together, these features decrease the amount of fuel needed to push the car through the air at speed.

 

The second enabler is the PowerShift transmission. Unlike regular, hydraulically operated automatic transmissions that use power-sapping torque converters, wet clutches and pumps, Ford’s new dual-clutch PowerShift automatic consists of two manual transmissions – in the same case – working in parallel. Each has its own independent clutch unit controlled by computers, and fast-acting electromechanical actuators that shift the gears.

 

In addition to the leadership claim for highway fuel economy, the new Fiesta boasts a best-in-class suite of technologies and features that give drivers a connected, yet untethered, driving experience.

 

A new MyFord Touch system with 6.5-inch touch screen featuring enhanced voice control is now available. Fiesta still features SYNC AppLink capabilities pioneered on the first Fiesta, which allow drivers to access and control Ford-approved smartphone apps with voice commands and vehicle controls while on the go.

 

Ford MyKey is a new feature for Fiesta, which enables parents to encourage safer driving and limit their teenagers’ exposure to risk at the wheel. The system allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits. It also mutes audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures driver aids, safety systems and more vigorous alerts cannot be deactivated when used.

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