This got to be one of the coolest (excuse the pun) fridges ever

The ‘SMEG 500’ fridge, produced by Smeg and Fiat with the stylistic collaboration of Italia Independent, had its world preview in Paris last week. The event took place at the Colette concept store in Rue Saint-Honorè.

Enticing the eye, raising a smile, applying the passion of creativity to the use of technology: these are the design concepts that have always inspired  Fiat and Smeg. This special chemistry has resulted in the exclusive ‘SMEG 500’, a fridge which fulfils its function while showing off a new look, becoming an object which captures, intrigues and attracts the eye.

An authentic icon of Italian manufacturing, the Fiat 500 thus expands its appeal into the bars and living rooms all over the world.  The ‘SMEG 500’ fridge extends the ‘Fiat 500 Design Collection’ of exclusive products – a sofa, a table and a console table – all inspired by the car which, more than any other, has marked the collective imagination of Italy.

Technical details of SMEG 500 (who cares since it looks fabulous?)

• Energy class A+
• total net capacity 100 l
• opening/closing with 2 sliding doors
• 3 removable bottle holders
• 1 dedicated shelf for cans
• adjustable thermostat
• automatic defrosting
• energy consumption 115 kWh/year
• climate class ST
• sound level 42 dB
• rated power 70 W
• dimensions: H83×W125×D80 cm (max. height bonnet open: 150 cm)
• Colours available: white, green and red.

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Volkswagen’s TSI Technology Wins Engine Of The Year Awards

The 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine from Volkswagen has won the “Engine of the Year Award” for the seventh consecutive time in the 1.0 to 1.4 litre displacement category. This makes the 1.4-litre TSI the most successful engine in the 15-year history of this international engine technology competition. In addition, Volkswagen received the coveted “Best New Engine Award” for its TSI technology in combination with automatic cylinder deactivation (ACT). This award recognises the best engine development of the past 12 months.

Since 2006, Volkswagen has received a total of 12 trophies from the “Engine of the Year” jury for the constantly enhanced 1.4-litre TSI engine with the internal designation EA 211 – seven class victories, two overall victories, two “Best New Engine” awards and one “Green Engine of the Year” award. The committee, which is made up of 87 international trade journalists, has given the TSI technology an historic string of victories. At the same time, Volkswagen is launching into a new era of engine production with its latest innovation - the TSI with ACT cylinder deactivation.

The Wolfsburg-based company was the world’s first manufacturer to introduce active cylinder management (ACT) in the TSI four-cylinder last year – a technology that until then had been more familiar in large eight- or twelve-cylinder engines. Active cylinder management made its debut in the Polo and Golf 103 kW / 140 PS 1.4 TSI. Temporary shutoff of the second and third cylinders – in conjunction with an economical style of driving – reduces fuel consumption by over 0.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

Even with two cylinders the excellently balanced 1.4 TSI runs just as quietly and with low vibration as with four active combustion chambers. All mechanical switchover processes take place within one camshaft rotation; depending on engine speed this takes just 13 to 36 milliseconds. Accompanying interventions in ignition and throttle valve processes smooth the transitions.

Altogether, the components of active cylinder management weigh just 3 kg. Their actuators, the camshafts and their bearing frames are integrated in the cylinder head; two low-friction bearings reduce shaft friction. Important to know: only with the TSI concept – petrol direct injection plus turbocharging – is cylinder deactivation even conceivable in the form being implemented today.

Compared to its predecessor, fuel consumption and CO2 emission values of the TSI engines were reduced to 9 per cent in part also by such measures as reducing internal friction, lowering weight and optimising thermal management. The savings potential is as much as 15 per cent in conjunction with the innovative active cylinder management (ACT) feature.

Volkswagen is the global leader in charging strategies for engines with direct fuel injection, and to date it has produced over 3.8 million TSI engines at five production sites worldwide. The 140 PS TSI with automatic cylinder deactivation (ACT) is currently available in the Polo and Golf. Today, in Stuttgart, the two awards were accepted by Dr. Rüdiger Szengel, Head of Volkswagen Petrol Engine Development, and Hermann Middendorf, Head of Basic Development for the EA 211 in Volkswagen Petrol Engine Development.

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Škoda Octavia vRS is the fastest production Octavia ever

The curtain rises for the fastest production Octavia ever: the new Škoda Octavia vRS celebrates its world debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed ​​on the 10^th of July. The Czech manufacturer continues the most comprehensive model campaign in the company’s history with this latest model. The third generation Octavia vRS/Octavia estate vRS creates a strong impression with its powerful and efficient engines, racy design and innovative technology.

"The new Octavia vRS is in a sports league of its own," says Škoda CEO Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland. "Our latest model stands for horsepower and fuel efficiency and, at the same time, for emotion and rationality. Never before has an Octavia vRS been so fast and dynamic and yet so spacious, convenient, safe and comfortable as the third generation of our compact sports car. In this perfect combination, the new Octavia vRS and Octavia estate vRS set new standards in the sporty compact class and also takes the brand’s sporty genes with it on the road. A perfect car for free time and everyday use, maximum power, the latest technology and great value for money," explains Vahland.

The new Octavia vRS accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 6.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 154 mph (with manual six-speed gearbox). The new Octavia vRS will be available for retail in European markets as of July, starting in the UK.  

Two new engines power the new Octavia vRS. There is a choice of the two-litre petrol 220 PSortwo-litre diesel 184 PS. The 2.0 TSI-petrol, in conjunction with the six-speed manual gearbox, thrusts the Octavia vRS from 0 to 62 mph in only 6.8 seconds. The maximum speed now lies at 154 mph, making it 4 mph faster than the second generation Octavia vRS. The new Octavia vRS 2.0 TDI-diesel manages 0 to 62 mph in 8.1 seconds with a top speed of 144 mph (with six-speed manual gearbox).

Compared to the second generation Octavia vRS, the new engines provide more power whilst consuming up to 19% less fuel. Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration are fitted as standard. A manual gearbox or DSG dual clutch transmission are available as options for both engines, each with six gears.

The new Octavia vRS is fitted with sports suspension as standard. The body has also been lowered by 12mm compared to the standard Octavia (Octavia estate vRS body: 13 mm). The newly developed multi-link axle is used as the rear axle.  For precise track guidance, there is a MacPherson strut with underlying triangle wishbone. Electronic differential lock XDS integrated into the electronic stability control (ESC) now comes as standard. This function improves the traction of the wheels and reduces the tendency to understeer in fast cornering. For better handling and greater agility comes the new electro-mechanical progressive steering. Thanks to this technology, the driver can make smaller movements in steering to achieve the desired turning radius. That means less grip is needed for tight corners.

The front view is dominated by the creative interplay of the characteristic Škoda front grille sporting the vRS badge, distinctive honeycomb air intakes, a new vRS-style front bumper and fog lights as well as the new bi-xenon headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights now fitted as standard.

From the side view,the car is considerably lower compared to the standard Octavia body.  In comparison to the second generation Octavia vRS, the vehicle has grown significantly in length (+88 mm, estate +86 mm) and width (+45 mm). At the same time the wheelbase has risen by 102mm, enhancing the powerful image of the car as the shortened overhang. The series standard, red-lacquered brake callipers provide pure emotion, as do the powerful proportions, high tornado line and sharp, precise edges and lines. 

The Octavia vRS’s new light-alloy wheels lend the car a particularly sporty look. The designers have created four new 17”, 18” and 19” wheel designs. The tyres have an impressive, racy two-tone look, a distinctive outfit, visual lightness, sharp edges and a finish precise to the smallest detail.  The new Octavia vRS drives on the series standard  ‘Dorado’ 17” light alloys fitted with 225/45 tyres.  Then there are the optional 18” ‘Gemini’ and ‘Pictoris’ alloys (each for 225/40 tyres). Two colours are available for the ‘Gemini’: silver und anthracite. Anyone who appreciates ultra-sporty wheels will love ŠKODA’s accessories for the Octavia vRS and there are yet more treats in store like the ‘Xtrem’ 19” light alloys in black.

The rear is dominated in the lower section by a strong black diffuser element and the overlying wide reflector spotlight.These elements are also distinctive features of the new Octavia vRS just like the two large, trapezoidal-shaped chrome exhaust tailpipes. Then there are the rear lights fitted as standard with LED technology in the brand’s typical C-shape.  And the designers have not forgotten about the spoiler, which, on the estate vRS, is fitted as a roof-edge spoiler. 

The interior is characterised by the sporty, black interior. The interior of the front doors is newly equipped with integrated ambient lighting for the internal door handles. There are newly developed vRS-design sports seats for the driver and passenger and a sporty three-spoke steering wheel with perforated leather is fitted as standard. The gear stick and handbrake are also made of leather. The sill plates and pedals are made ​​of stainless steel. The instrument panel with a rich-colour Maxi DOT display has its own unique vRS design. The steering wheel, gear stick, door sill panels, seats and floor mats all sport the vRS logo.

In addition to its sporty features, the new Octavia boasts all the outstanding attributes that distinguish it as the new Octavia in both body versions.  These primarily include the superior interior space and numerous ‘Simply Clever’ solutions.

Space like no other: no other compact sports car offers more interior length (1,782 mm), more legroom (73 mm) or more headroom in the back (980 mm). Even the boot sets another record in the class: The boot volume in the Octavia vRS increased by 5 litres to 590 litres, and the estate vRS has increased to 610 litres.

Added to that, there are a whole host of other ‘Simply Clever’ features, such as the foldable cargo items as well as the double-sided boot flooring, an ice scraper in the fuel cap and the high-vis jacket under the driver’s seat. There are also litter containers, multimedia holders and a number of storage compartments, holders and hooks fitted as standard in the new Octavia vRS. The new Octavia estate vRS has an optional adjustable boot floor. The jacket shelf under the boot cover is new in the estate vRS. The roller cover for the boot can be removed and stowed under the adjustable loading floor. The backrest of the rear seat can also be folded 60:40.

Included in the newly developed safety system are the Front Assistant with city emergency braking, Lane Assistant to keep you on track, Automatic Post Collision Braking System with automatic brake intervention in the event of an accident, Crew Protect Assistant to protect the vehicle under accident conditions and the Driver Fatigue Sensor. In the event of an accident, a comprehensive package of passive safety features work to provide the best possible protection for the driver and passengers with up to nine airbags amongst other things.

As an option, the new Octavia vRS comes with Adaptive Cruise Assistant, which keeps a set distance from the car ahead. The new Intelligent Light Assistant automatically switches the long-beam lights on and off. The Automatic Parking Assistant supports you getting in and out of tight spaces. The road sign detection in the ‘Traveller Assistant’ package indicates traffic signals.

KESSY Keyless-Entry-Start-and-Exit-System is also available upon request for the new Octavia vRS along with the electric panoramic sunroof for both body versions.  In addition, there is a completely new generation of infotainment radio and navigation systems. Swing – the CD/radio with TFT monochrome display is also fitted as standard in the brand’s latest model with four front and rear speakers. Up to eight full-size touch screens with proximity sensors are fitted in higher systems.  The CANTON Sound System offers passengers sound-optimised audio for pure listening pleasure.

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Biggest-ever attendance in Historic's Summer Auction

1967 Aston Martin DB6

It was not just the sun that beamed down on Historics’ early Summer auction on Saturday June 1, as the Brooklands Museum-based auctioneer registered yet another spirited quarterly sale, with its biggest-ever attendance during both viewing and sale days, the largest consignment list, motorcar sales in excess of £1.5 million and the highest sales ratio from any auction to date.

With 110 classic car consignments representing 38 different marques and, for the first time, a separate major sale of 87 classic motorcycles adding to the Saturday itinerary, Historics’ re-emphasised its pitch as a company that represents the breadth of the classic community.

With vigorous bidding in the hall, via commission bids, telephone and internet, a total sale revenue from motor car consignments of £1.58 million was achieved - and a motorcar sales ratio of 72% - all reflected in a wealth of excellent results.

Jaguar enthusiasts were treated to a selection of twelve models across five decades, headed by an immaculate concours-standard 1966 Series I E-Type 4.2 litre roadster. With significant pre-sale interest, the jet black/black leather trim convertible attracted a flurry of enthusiastic bids, resulting in a sale price of a heady £112,000. 

A similarly-striking and beautifully-presented 1959 XK150S Coupé found its new home for £48,160, whilst a 1974 Series III 5.3 litre Jaguar E-Type Roadster soared £10,000 above its top estimate, the sale being concluded at £44,800. The feat was repeated by a limited-edition XJR-S ‘Celebration Le Mans’ model, changing owners for twice its top estimate, at £11,200.

Arguably the most immaculate of all consignments was a Jaguar D-Type re-creation of 1969.  Supreme attention to detail and finesse made this a magnificent tribute to the famed Browns Lane racing car.  Not surprisingly, a flurry of bidding sealed the sale at £52,920, another to exceed expectations.

The Mercedes-Benz marque has always been a robust seller at Historics and this was no exception. Amidst the fifteen varied consignments – of which eleven inherited new owners – a brace of 1957 190SL roadsters topped the M-B sales charts at £61,600 and £62,720 whilst, at the other end of the spectrum, a 1976 six-door E330D Limousine offered at No Reserve, made its new owner very content at £1,500, the bidding being somewhat shorter than the car’s impressive length.

Creating major interest amongst other No Reserve consignments was a rare 1963 Lotus Elan S1 by Shapecraft, which had slumbered in storage for 40 years.  Strong bidding propelled this fascinating total restoration project to £26,880. 

Languishing alongside the Elan was an equally fascinating car requiring a total re-build - a 1970 Porsche 911T - which has been on the road for just six of its 43 years existence, the remainder spent in storage. It created a major stir in the hall, enthusiastic bidding pushing the total sale price, as with the Elan, to £26,880.

Indeed, Porsches proved to be very much in demand, returning a 100% sale rate of the eight models consigned, with a 1991 Carrera 2, beautifully-presented in 1973 2.7 RS specification, soaring above estimate to £38,640, trumped only amongst the Stuttgart cars by a 1980 911SC which sold at £6,000 above its top estimate, settling at £15,680.

With nearly forty years between them, a supremely-elegant 1967 Aston Martin DB6 and 2006 DB9 provided an interesting contrast. The former whisked speedily to £123,000 whilst the DB9 changed hands at an impressive £35,840.  

Strong interest in British sportscars continued with a rare 1961 Lenham-Healey Six  (of which reputedly just 18 were made) joining the contingent of cars exceeding their estimates (£20,720), and a magnificent 1972 Old English White MG-B GT rewarding its fastidious and ultra-caring owner with a sale price of over £10,500, significantly ahead of its £6,500 top estimate.

And such was the following for a 1965 Lotus 7, pitched at £5,000-£10,000, that it achieved a very spritely £17,360 for its vendor. The Hethel marque was also represented by two Lotus Europas of 1970 and 1971 vintage. The slightly younger twin-cam variant sold to a first-time Lotus owner for £12,320.

Commenting on the sale, Historics’ Auction Director, Edward Bridger-Stille, said;

“What a way to celebrate the arrival of Summer! We were again delighted to offer such a varied, high-quality motorcar consignment portfolio, and were rewarded with a great sales result and sales ratio.  Moreover, it is a tribute to the Historics team - and to our established reputation - to muster alongside the motorcars, a tremendous and successful sale of 87 classic motorcycles, this being the first major two-wheel sale to be held in the South of England.  We intend to make this an annual event for motorcycle enthusiasts.”

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Commemorative 50 Years Edition of the Porsche 911 coupé

Porsche is celebrating a special anniversary of the 911 sports car at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in September with a commemorative 50 Years Edition – half a century since the iconic coupé made its debut in the German city. Appropriately, the special model will be limited to 1,963 cars.

In 1963, Porsche presented the original model to the public. Since this first announcement – initially as the type 901 – the 911 has excited automotive fans across the globe. Porsche will unveil the limited edition model to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the 911 at the IAA in Frankfurt, which opens its doors to the public on 12 September, 2013.

Like the first coupé, the 911 50 Years Edition combines a distinctive silhouette with a rear-mounted, flat-six engine and rear wheel drive. Yet its efficient performance, active sports suspension and exclusive body styling add contemporary appeal. Over seven successive generations, the Porsche 911 continues to resolve apparent contradictions – such as between tradition and innovation and performance and efficiency – andhas become renowned as the quintessential benchmark sports car.

This special anniversary 911 is based on the 911 Carrera S, but is clothed in the wider body – 44 mm broader across the rear wheel arches – that is typically reserved for the all-wheel drive Carrera 4 models. The unique exterior styling is combined with features that have contributed to the 50-year success story of the car. For example, the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), with special tuning to complement the increased track width, adds to the exceptional cornering dynamics. The car also features a sports exhaust system for increased emotional character.

Powered by a 400 hp 3.8-litre flat-six engine, the 911 50 Years Edition sprints from 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds (4.3 secs with PDK) and can reach a top speed of 186 mph (185 mph with PDK). The NEDC Combined fuel consumption is 29.7 mpg (32.5 mpg with PDK), which equates to CO₂ emissions of 224 g/km (205 g/km with PDK).

Giving a clear indication to the rear-mounted location of the flat-six power plant are bespoke chrome strips on the fins of the engine compartment grille. These are complemented with special trims on the front air inlets, and in a strip across the car between the rear lights. A further contemporary interpretation of 911 leitmotifs are the unique five-spoke cast alloy wheels whose style has been inspired by the so-called ‘Fuchs’ wheels, a legendary rim that was in fact a Porsche design and first fitted to the 911 in 1966. The new 20-inch diameter wheels are finished in matt black paint with machine-polished centres.

Two unique colours are available for this anniversary 911; a darker Graphite Grey and a lighter Geyser Grey metallic. Black is also available. Each of the cars has a ‘911 50’ badge finished in two-tone 3D-style on the rear lid, which is repeated in three-colour embroidery on the head restraints and as a two-colour logo on the rev counter and the aluminium door sill plates. It is also displayed on the passenger side fascia strip together with the limited edition number of the individual vehicle.

Other exterior characteristics of the special model are high-gloss window frames and SportDesign exterior mirrors. A technical highlight is the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), which adds a dynamic cornering function to the already standard-fit Bi-Xenon headlights.

Inside, there are further styling touches reminiscent of the original 911 such as green labelling on the instruments with white pointer needles and silver caps on the instrument pivot pins. Another special feature are the centre panels of the leather seats, which are designed with a fabric pattern that evokes the ‘Pepita’ tartan design from the 1960s. The leather interior can be specified in Agate Grey or Black with decorative stitching. Sports seats with 14-way adjustment are standard, with 18-way Sport Seats Plus available as an option. The gear shift or selector lever – which, like the decorative panels on the dashboard, doors and centre console, is trimmed in brushed aluminium – comes from the Porsche Exclusive custom tailoring programme.

The 911 50 Years Edition is available to order now from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland, priced from £92,257. First right-hand drive deliveries will arrive in September.

In addition to the bespoke equipment of the anniversary model, standard equipment on the 911 Carrera S includes Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with rear limited slip differential, 4.6-inch colour touch-screen Porsche Communication Management with satellite navigation, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity and a three year warranty.

Fitted to every 911 is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers are also able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

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Rolls-Royce Makes Final Preparations For 1,800 Mile Alpine Trial

A newer and a "slightly" older model getting ready for the big day.

Final preparations are underway for the recreation of the 1913 Alpine Trial. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Authorised Dealer in Essex, P&A Wood, is playing an essential role in ensuring cars are in perfect condition for what remains one of the automotive world’s most gruelling tests of endurance. 

Eight of the 40 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghosts participating in the rally, many over a century old, have been meticulously prepared by the dealership’s skilled technicians and craftspeople.  

Since its foundation in 1967, P&A Wood has established a reputation as one of the world’s leading restorers of Rolls-Royce motor cars. The company’s site is nestled in the beautiful Essex countryside and boasts a unique coachwork facility where much of the rally preparation work is taking place.

A new dedicated Rolls-Royce showroom will open in late summer providing a world-class showcase for contemporary Phantom, Ghost and Wraith models.

“P&A Wood plays a vital role in preserving the marque’s rich history whilst contributing significantly to the contemporary Rolls-Royce success story,” said James Crichton, Regional Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Europe. He added: “Investment in a new dedicated Rolls-Royce showroom space is testament to a shared commitment to long-term sustainable growth and providing a sales and aftersales experience befitting the world’s leading super-luxury marque.”

On 14 June 2013, 40 Silver Ghosts will depart from Vienna, wafting through Austria, Slovenia, Croatia and Italy before returning on 29 June. The faithful re-enactment celebrates the seminal 1913 Trials, a test of endurance that saw the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost cement its reputation for faultless reliability – establishing the legend of the ‘Best Car in the World’.

The cars will tackle over 1,800 miles over some of the world’s most spectacular and challenging mountain passes.

P&A Wood’s motto; ‘Attention to Detail’ echoes the sentiments of Rolls-Royce founding father Sir Henry Royce who famously implored his staff to “Strive for perfection in everything you do”. This approach has earned them much success in concourse events across the globe – with over 100 awards won to date.

“This is an extraordinarily busy time for the workshop,” said Georgina Wood, P&A Wood. Adding: “Eight cars have been sent here from around the world for their final preparations, many of which over a century old. However, such is the enduring engineering integrity of a Rolls-Royce, I am certain they will negotiate the challenging Alpine roads as effortlessly as they did 100 years ago.”

The 2013 Alpine Trial Centenary Collection

Echoing events a century ago, a Rolls-Royce Works Team will take part in the rally. The original ‘James Radley’ 1913 Silver Ghost will be joined by a contemporary homage created by Bespoke designers and craftspeople at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England.

Finished in an exterior hue that takes inspiration from the Radley car, the 2013 Alpine Trial Centenary Ghost features exquisitely crafted Bespoke touches that elegantly tell the story of the 1913 Trial.

The clock displays the stages of the rally and timings, whilst inlays to rear picnic tables and the front fascia express the topography and distances of the Alpine route.

A hand-painted coachline referencing the four Rolls-Royce motor cars that took part in the rally and headlining, colour-matched to the hood of Radley’s car, completes a beautiful tribute.

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Nissan Micra gets a facelift

Nissan has significantly updated the Micra with a round of changes so wide-ranging they go well beyond what usually constitutes a mid-term facelift.

As well as a new look front and rear - complete with sheet metal changes - New Micra has been given a substantial interior makeover. There is new technology, a new centre console, new trim and new finishing touches.

Depending on trim level there's an all-new communication centre with the latest state-of-the-art touchscreen navigation system now with a larger screen. On the exterior, additions include two bold new colours and new 15-inch and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Nissan has also expanded Micra's choice of personalisation options designed to allow an owner to create their own unique Micra. The changes, allied to the model's acclaimed performance and handling, boost and broaden the appeal of Nissan's popular small car.

At its heart, however, New Micra remains true to the design ethos that shaped the definitive small car when the original was launched, 30 years and more than six million examples ago.

New Micra remains not just fun to drive and, thanks to its compact turning circle, easy to park but is also one of the most advanced small cars on the market.

Among its features are its highly efficient direct injection gasoline-supercharged (DIG-S) petrol engine, its innovative, accessible and genuinely helpful Parking Slot Measurement, which helps guide the driver into tight parking spaces, and I-Key which delivers not just keyless entry but also keyless engine start.

With its new look, comprehensive improvements and quality upgrades, New Micra will build on the success of the current model, introduced to the European market three years ago. It’s the third best-selling Nissan model in the UK and Europe behind Qashqai and Juke.

Changes in detail

New Micra’s most obvious changes are to the exterior. The entire ‘face' has changed with a new grille re-establishing a stronger link to Nissan's corporate look with the familiar circular badge ‘held' within a chromed extended V-shaped motif.

But it's not just the grille that has changed. In fact, the bonnet, wings, headlamps and front bumper are also all new. And where fitted, the front fog lamps have been given a distinctive new shape & chrome surround. The changes give New Micra a stronger, more assertive and dynamic look.

It's all change at the rear, too, with a redesigned bumper, new LED tail lamps and a panel at the bottom of the tailgate. The fresh look is complemented by a new 15-inch alloy wheel design and the introduction of machine-finished 16-inch alloys. Together the styling changes make New Micra appear more purposeful and better ‘planted' on the road.

An eye-catching palette includes two new colours: pearl metallic Pacific Blue (a predominantly turquoise shade) and metallic Platinum Sage. These join the eight existing colours.

A number of significant changes can be found inside too. The instrument graphics ahead of the driver have been improved for greater clarity, while there's a totally new centre console with restyled air vents.

The interior has been enhanced with the use of gloss black finish on the centre console and a silver look to the gear selector finisher. The door armrests have been textured to give a higher quality appearance and there are new seat and door pad fabrics. Visia and Acenta grades have a durable tricot mesh woven fabric – a material often used for sports clothing - while top Tekna models have a suede-like fabric with double stitching.

The interior also now benefits from dash-mounted Aux-in and USB slots linked to all audio units while a 12v socket has been added, allowing mobile phones or MP3 players to be recharged on the move with ease.

All but entry-level Visia models benefit from audio equipment that has been better integrated into the centre console with matching gloss and matt black finishers as appropriate.

More significantly, New Micra benefits from the availability of the latest NissanConnect navigation and communication system, which has new features and a bigger 5.8-inch screen (up from 5-inches) with chromed controls.

Upgraded navigation now features eco-routing, which automatically calculates the route likely to use the least fuel. It is supplemented by an eco-scoring table that allows a driver to check how economically he or she has been driving.

The larger colour touchscreen not only means maps and directions are easier to read, but also that album cover art linked to the owner's music library can be displayed.

The new system also incorporates advanced features such as Google Send-To-Car technology, which allows an owner to plan a journey on their PC or tablet at home or in the office and then send the instructions to the car ahead of the journey.

Google's Point of Interest (POI) search-and-access to weather forecasts, local fuel prices and flight information, is also included. The navigation system now includes a motorway ‘exit view’ complete with lane guidance to help when leaving highways and the system also displays prevailing speed limits with a driver-set speed warning providing visual and audible alerts when the car hits a certain speed above the limit.

Another innovation is the availability of an advanced parking aid. Thanks to its electric power steering and one of the best turning circles in its class - just 4.65m - New Micra is instantly at home in the city... especially when equipped with Parking Slot Measurement and Rear Parking Sensors.

PSM lives up to its name by measuring parking slots and alerting the driver via a dashboard display as to whether New Micra can be safely parked in the space or not: the system can even be adjusted to account for the driver's skill - amateur, normal or expert.

But perhaps the biggest innovation is under the bonnet where one of the most efficient petrol engines in the world can be found, Nissan's latest three-cylinder 1.2-litre direct injection gasoline supercharged (DIG-S) unit.

The range-topping DIG-S develops 98PS to provide exceptional performance and refinement with diesel-rivalling economy (68.9mpg combined) and emissions from just 95g/km. DIG-S engines also feature automatic stop/start when the car is stationary improving fuel economy by around four per cent.

The entry-level 1.2-litre unit develops 80PS for lively performance and emissions from 115g/km. New Micra is front-wheel drive with a slick five-speed manual gearbox as standard or optionally the latest generation CVT.

There are three models in New Micra line-up starting with the entry-level Visia. Standard equipment includes remote central locking, front power windows, electric power steering, 14-inch wheels, Radio & CD player with Aux & USB plus a full complement of safety equipment including driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags and curtain bags, ABS and ESP.

Mid-range Acenta adds chrome accents, body colour door mirrors and handles, 15-inch wheels, roof spoiler, automatic climate control, front fog lamps, driver's armrest, leather covered steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity plus automatic control for the headlamps and wipers.

Top Tekna versions add automatic air conditioning, NissanConnect, rear parking sensors, Parking Slot Measurement, 16-inch alloy wheels, suede-like seat fabric, automatic folding door mirrors and Intelligent Key with engine start button.

A panoramic glass roof is available as on option on Tekna grade.  

A wide range of personalisation options is also being introduced from Acenta grade, so owners can now specify their preferred colour of wheel centre caps and door mirrors on the exterior, while inside they can personalise their gear knob, air-vent, gear stick surround and velour mats to make their car unique.  

"New Micra benefits from all the attributes of the current K13 model such as strong performance, handling and advanced technology, but with enhanced quality and a dynamic new look. The next chapter of the Micra story has begun," said Helen Perry, Micra Product Manager for Europe.

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