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Saturday 16 April 2011

Volkswagen Golf Cabrio


Volkswagen has released the first photos of the 2011 Golf Cabriolet, prior to its official launch at the 2011 Geneva motor show.
New in 2011? I could've sworn that they'd already released the Golf cabrio?

It's that sort of car, the Golf Cabrio. But we can assure you this is actually a new vehicle. There hasn't been a Golf soft-top since 2002, and that car was a Mk3 Golf in Mk4 clothing.
Where's the 'basket handle' rollover hoop?

Previous Golf Cabriolets have sported a prominent rollover bar, For the Mk6 edition, Volkswagen has installed a pop-up rollover protection system, as found on the Eos, New Beetle and (whisper it) Audi A3 cabriolets. The system deploys in milliseconds, and allows the 2011 Golf Cabriolet to dispense with one of its predecessors' visual hallmarks.

You'll also notice that the convertible roof hides nearly flush with the body in the latest Golf convertible. That soft-top is now electrically operated as standard, and can switch from fresh-air to fully enclosed in 9.5 seconds. You can even go topless at speeds up to 18mph.
Anything else I should know?

Head- and taillights derived from the Golf GTI, a more steeply inclined windscreen, a bootlid that drops into the bumper to allow access to the 250 litres of boot space, and a chrome strip around the perimeter of the cabin are the key exterior changes (after the decapitation).

That chrome edging in particular put us in mind of the current A3 soft-top. Inside, there's a 50:50 split-folding rear bench and the controls for the roof on the centre console - other than that it's the standard Golf interior.

The Golf Cabriolet will come with six engines at launch: four TSI petrol engines from 1.2 to 2.0 litres, and two TDI diesels. VW is most proud of the 104bhp 1.6 TDI, which should achieve 117g/km CO2 figures if you can stomach some distant diesel clatter.

Further information on pricing and availability for the UK is expected following the Golf Cabriolet's debut at the 2011 Geneva motor show.

Source from carmagazine

Friday 15 April 2011

Volkswagen Bulli


This is the new VW Bulli, a small electric MPV unveiled on the eve of the 2011 Geneva motor show. 'Bulli' was the German name for the 1950's T1, what the US market called the Microbus, and the new Bulli concept is an evolution of the lovely Microbus concept revealed in 2001. The new concept is smaller than Microbus concept and has an EV powerplant.
So what’s is the VW Bulli all about?

It’s an sub-Meriva MPV – it's nearly 300mm shorter than the little Vauxhall people carrier. VW design supremo Walter de Silva told CAR the Bulli is related to the Up family. 'It's wider though and 4m long. There is an intention to launch something like this in the B-MPV segment.' In the metal the VW Bulli has the air of a production car waiting to be green-lighted: seals, switchgear, door hinges are all ready to go and the minders didn't mind us clambering all over it. When the Bulli is launched it’ll be VW’s fifth MPV, and sit alongside the Caddy, Touran, Sharan and Caravelle.

The design is clean, crisp and minimalist, and once again moves VW’s new look another step forward. Cool details abound. The VW badge on the snout is a good 12in tall and the two-tone paint is striking. The interior is clever too, with a sandwich floor construction hiding the battery pack and giving a flat floor – don't expect a leather floor in production however. There's Fiat Multipla-style three-abreast seating, with a bench up front and 60:40 folding rear seats, a panoramic glass roof, and all the infotainment is controlled via an iPad, with a separate for the gear selector.
What’s the technology under the skin?

The VW Bulli concept is a front-wheel drive EV, with an 85kW electric motor able to produce 199lb ft, and a lithium-ion battery pack with a 40kWh storage capacity. VW reckons this is enough fro a 186-mile zero-emissions range, 0-62mph in 11.5 seconds and a 88mph (limited) top speed. With a ‘quick charge’ system, replenishing the batteries will take under an hour, too. Range not big enough? VW admits a 1.0 or 1.4-litre engine from its current range will easily fit in the Bulli.

Source from carmagazine

VW Tiguan facelift


VW will show the new-for-2011 Tiguan crossover at the Geneva motor show next month.

The Tiguan has been given the latest VW design look and feel. So the front grille has been widened for a sleeker look, rounded front lights are swapped for more angular, crisper items. LED technology is incorporated too.

The rear end is freshened up a little too.
When is the revised 2011 VW Tiguan going on sale?

UK order books open in early summer 2011, ahead of first deliveries in August.

Further details will be announced on the 1 March debut at the Geneva motor show 2011.

Source from carmagazine

Thursday 14 April 2011

Vauxhall Zafira Tourer concept


Vauxhall has put away the hologram projector and sent us proper photos of the Zafira Tourer concept, prior to its debut at the 2011 Geneva motor show
2011 Vauxhall Zafira Tourer Concept - what's inside

Vauxhall has sought to create a comfortable, relaxing lounge ambience with the interior of the new Zafira, shown here in concept car form.

Vauxhall's trademark Flex7 seating now allows the middle row of seats to fold flat into the floor. The Zafira Tourer also boasts a 'lounge seat' middle row. Similar to the Vauxhall Meriva and other MPVs on the market, this allows the centre chair to drop down, liberating extra space for two middle-row passengers.

The interior is richly trimmed in caramel-coloured leather, with contrasting dark brown trim on the doors, and deep-pile carpets. This is not your usual toddler-resistant troop-carrier fare.
Zafira Tourer: a chill-out room for grown-ups

The upmarket lounge ambience is aided by interior LED lighting set to reflect of embedded metallic particles in the upper surfaces of the interior, creating a warm glow in varying shades of yellow. Whether the effect is aided or stymied by the LCD glow from the built-in tablet PCs for rear seat passengers is another matter. Perhaps you could install a fireplace app and play some relaxing tunes from your music collection?

Up front, the driver gets a touch-screen infotainment system in the centre console, and there's more space for gadget-obsessives to connect their iPad or tablet PC to the car.
New Ampera'd-up exterior

You can see hints of Vauxhall's upcoming plug-in hybrid in the Zafira Tourer's front-end styling, but the remainder sticks close to the modern GM Europe look of the existing Vauxhall range. The design team was also influenced by high-speed trains when drafting the sleek exterior, apparently.

As befits a concept car, the relaxing lounge sits on massive 20-inch alloy wheels. Low-profile rubber will test the mettle of the FlexRide adaptive dampers if the Zafira Tourer is to realise the promise of that cossetting interior.

The Zafira Tourer concept is powered by GM's 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, fitted with stop-start technology.
When do we see the real Zafira?

There's not a long wait this time. The real McCoy arrives at the Frankfurt motor show in autumn 2011.

Source from carmagazine

Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid


Volvo will unveil its new V60 Plug-in Hybrid at the 2011 Geneva motor show in March. The new Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrid is described as 'virtually production-ready' and will be built and sold by the Swedish car company from 2012.
What are the components of the Volvo V60 Plug-in Hybrd?

Driving the front wheels through a six-speed automatic is an upgraded version of Volvo's 2.4-litre five-cylinder D5 engine: power and torque goes up from 202bhp and 309lb ft to 213bhp and 325lb ft. And at the back is Volvo's ERAD (Electric Rear Axle Drive) system with a 70hp electric motor that's provided power by a 12kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

The result, Volvo claims, is 150mpg on the combined cycle, CO2 emissions of just 50g/km, and a potential electric-only range of 32 miles.

'This second-generation hybrid is the perfect choice for the uncompromising buyer who wants a carbon dioxide-lean car packed with driving pleasure,' said Volvo president and CEO Stefan Jacoby. 'In order to get true car enthusiasts to think green, you have to offer them the opportunity to drive with low carbon dioxide emissions without taking away the adrenaline rush that promotes genuine driving pleasure.'

We see what Jacoby means, but a diesel estate is perhaps not the best example of 'driving pleasure'...

Source from carmagazine


Wednesday 13 April 2011

Toyota Prius V and Toyota Prius C concepts


What’s the plural of Prius? We don’t know, but at the 2011 Detroit motor show today Toyota pulled the wraps off two new Prius models. One is a production-ready MPV called the Toyota Prius V, and the second is the Prius C concept, which will inspire a future small hybrid.

The Prius has notched nearly one million sales in the US alone since it was introduced in 2000, and the current car is Toyota’s third best selling car in America – these new models will only push those numbers much higher.
Tell me about the production car first, the Toyota Prius V

‘V’, as you may have guessed, is for versatility, so although the Prius V sits on the same platform as the current Prius (and uses the same 1.8-litre petrol engine and Hybrid Synergy Drive tech). Mind you, it offers over 50% more luggage space than its smaller sibling.

There’s still only seating for five inside, but it’s even more spacious than the already ample Prius, and both the second row of seats and the front passenger seat fold flat.

It’s definitely still a Prius at the front, but the rear seems to mix Prius design cues with the Verso, old-shape Honda Civic and Saab 9-3 Sport Wagon. The extra size and weight means it’s not quite as economical as the regular Prius, achieving (US) 42mpg city and 38mpg highway, versus 51 and 48 for the original.
What about the new Toyota Prius C?

While the Prius V is bigger than the standard Prius, the C concept is smaller – ‘C’ stands for city.

The concept car itself previews a Yaris-sized production hybrid that we should see in the first half of 2012, and Toyota is aiming for a lower price point than the starting mark of $22,800 a Prius today.

Toyota claims it will be ‘the most value-oriented hybrid in the U.S. market with the highest mileage of any “cordless” hybrid’. The Prius plug-in will reach the US market at around the same time as the production Prius C.

Source from carmagazine

Toyota FT-86 II concept

The wait for Toyota’s rear-wheel drive coupe is nearly over. The new Toyota FT-86 II was unveiled today at the 2011 Geneva motor show, alongside the Subaru version.

The two sports cars are being co-developed and Toyota president Akio Toyoda makes no bones about his mission for the FT-86: ‘I want to transfer the thrill of the race track to our vehicles, and make driving fun and exciting for our customers,’ he said.

That’s right, this car could just signal the end of Toyota’s unfortunately dull reputation since the demise of cars such as the Celica and Supra. Toyota is positioning the FT-86 as the spiritual successor to those coupes, and of course the legendary rear-wheel drive AE86. It’s some counterpoint to the magnolia Auris, isn’t it?
What’s new on the FT-86 II?

Our pictures show a car that’s nearer to production reality, with a very Subaru-influenced surfacing on the flanks and a host of new details: the lower air intake is now a taller, more aggressive shape and the all-pervasive LED day running lights now follow the arc down from the headlamps to the spoiler. The wheelarches are more pronounced too.
Toyota FT-86 II: the lowdown

The FT-86 was designed with input from the company’s ED2 European design centre and the aero package has been developed with expertise gained during the company’s F1 exploits. Apparently.

Toyota has form in facelifting concept cars. Remember the long, drawn-out gestation of the Lexus LF-A? Now it’s the FT-86’s turn to be pepped up, hence the II tag added to the name. All you need to know is that this car is much closer to production. And that means that the zip-up dashboard is sadly consigned to the concept car dustbin.

It’s a compact sports car, measuring 4235mm long, 1795mm wide and 1270mm high. That low nose is allowed by Subaru’s boxer engine, which sits low in the nose mated to a six-speed manual box.
FT-86: rear-wheel drive

The FT-86 II is rear-wheel drive design, meaning that this Toyobaru mixes the specialisms of both brands. Subaru is firmly wedded to flat-cylinder engines, but is alien to rear-drive.

The two companies announced they’d work together in August 2009. Three years later, the production cars will be on sale – with Toyota promising the final version in showrooms in 2012.

Source from carmagazine

Tuesday 12 April 2011

Subaru’s rear-drive sports car

While Toyota unveiled a revised version of its FT-86 sports car at the 2011 Geneva motor show, Subaru chose to only preview the powertrain of its 'Toyobaru' rear-drive sports coupe. Subaru and Toyota are developing the car together, and each will produce a version of the rear-drive coupe in 2012, but so far it’s been Toyota that’s grabbed all the limelight.
So this is Subaru’s version of the Toyota FT-86?

Yes, though Subaru was originally due to show a full concept version of its RWD sports car at Geneva, but has instead only revelead the powertrain and basic body shape – not the best move, as the Toyota looks good, and without body panels you only imagine this Scooby version to have bland, flat body panels. The engine is a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre flat four, and the car rides on 17in wheels.

We have no name for the car either, and even Subaru keeps changing what it calls the concept: just a few weeks ago it was the ‘Subaru Rear-Wheel Drive Sports Car Technology Concept’, but now it’s the slightly snappier ‘Boxer Sports Car Architecture’.

Subaru has also set up a website for interested customers to learn more about the new car – and Subaru’s departure from its famed all-wheel drive chassis. The promise: ‘the RWD Sports Car adds a completely new package to Subaru’s existing AWD line-up, making Subaru’s legendary on-road performance even more accessible. Its stunning performance stems from Subaru’s key component – the horizontally opposed boxer engine. The ‘Boxer Sports Car Architecture’ embodies Subaru’s new definition of driving excitement, and is a true technical masterpiece that assure drivers a level of confidence that only Subaru can provide.’

Both Toyota and Subaru are expected to unveil the production versions of their exciting rear-drive coupes at the 2011 Tokyo motor show later this year, and production will begin in early 2012.

Source from carmagazine

Suzuki Swift S-Concept

Suzuki has unveiled a warmed-up version of its Swift supermini at the 2011 Geneva motor show. The new Swift S-Concept is an indication of the forthcoming Swift Sport hot hatch.
So what do we know about the Suzuki Swift S-Concept and the next Swift S?

Although a concept, it won’t take a rocket scientist to work out the Swift S-Concept is very close to the production car. Technical details are still scant, but we do know that the production version of this car will be powered by a naturally aspirated 1.6-litre four cylinder engine. Expect to see the production car at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show, will UK sales commencing shortly afterwards. There’s a high-riding roof spoiler visible at the back, while the front end does a mini-Testarossa with all those strakes pepping up the front apron.
What else is on the Suzuki stand at the Geneva motor show?

Check out the revised Splash with the more powerful 93bhp 1.2 VVT engine snaffled from the Swift supermini. Despite a power hike, emissions tumble to 119g/km and economy climbs to 55.4mpg.

Source from carmagazine

Monday 11 April 2011

Spyker C8 Aileron GT

Spyker is readying a new endurance racer, the C8 Aileron GT. and it's unveiled the car on the eve of the 2011 Geneva motor show. It's more good news for the fans of the obscure Dutch brand: last week the company that builds the cars in the UK bought the brand from holding company Spyker Cars N.V, there's a waiting list that stretches into early 2012, and now Spyker is committing to endurance racing for the next few years.
Full details on the Spyker C8 Aileron GT please…

Based on Spyker’s new flagship C8 Aileron, the new GT racer is being designed and developed to meet the GTE regulations set by the ACO, the governing body of the Le Mans 24hrs. The C8 Aileron GT is being readied for the 2012 season, and will replace the Laviolette GT2R racer. No technical details have been released yet, but the road-going C8 Aileron has a rear-wheel drive aluminium chassis and an Audi-derived 4.2-litre V8.

This time around, the Spyker Squadron will also prepare and sell its new C8 Aileron GT car to customer teams, and claims it is already in discussion with a number of interested teams. After developing the C8 Aileron GT to the ACO’s GTE specifications, Spyker will assess whether there is demand to develop a variant based on the FIA’s GT3 rules and regs. Although Spyker production now takes place in Coventry, the engineering and development of the C8 Aileron GT will be carried out at the Spyker Squadron’s HQ in Zeewolde in the Netherlands.

'We are taking a racing sabbatical this year to concentrate our resources on developing a new GT racer based on Spyker’s new C8 Aileron supercar, instead of continuing to spend money on a car at the end of its development cycle,' explained Spyker Squadron’s MD Peter Van Erp. 'For the long term future of Spyker Squadron, and for its role in the promotion and technical development of Spyker road cars, it’s a positive and strategically important step.'

Source from carmagazine

Smart Forspeed concept

Remember the Smart Crossblade? Smart has produced another chop-top Fortwo - the Forspeed EV concept due to bow in at next week's 2011 Geneva motor show.
Smart Forspeed concept: the lowdown

The Forspeed apes the 2002 Crossblade, a roofless, doorless concept that was the perfect city runabout... in a world where it never rained, roads were smooth and the weather was perpetually warm. So not the UK, then.

The new 2011 Smart Forspeed does have doors, along with the usual speedster styling accoutrements (cut-down wind deflector screen, streamlined roll-over hoop fairings). There is a fabric tonneau cover for weather protection when parked, or driver-only excursions. The front lights hint at the next-generation Fortwo, but the remainder is reserved for the delight of motor show visitors.
What powers the Smart Forspeed? With a name like that, it deserves a V8!

Nope. The Forspeed is electric, using a 30kW electric motor with an additional 5kW boost mode available via a centre-console switch. The electric motor draws power from an 16.5kWh lithium-ion power cell, which offers 84 miles of range.

Charging is via a 220V port located between the rear light clusters, and Smart claims the Forspeed can be charged to 80% in 45 minutes. There's also a clever use of solar cells in the wind deflector, to assist in charging the inevitable built-in smartphone.

Performance is claimed at top speed of 75mph, and 0-37mph in 5.5 seconds. Fairly modest stats, so those speedster cues may be just a touch misleading.
I expect there's an app for that?

Yes, the Smart comes with a smartphone fitted to a swivel mount in front of the passenger. It provides navigation, infotainment and vehicle location sevices via the installed Smart Drive application.

Further details will be available following the unveiling of the Smart Forspeed at the 2011 Geneva motor show.

Source from carmagazine

Sunday 10 April 2011

Skoda Vision D

Skoda hinted at a new model to fit between the Octavia and Fabia with the Vision D concept car at the 2011 Geneva motor show. Skoda is plotting a Focus rival to make up for the company's weird half sizes - its current offering, the Octavia, is in fact a half size up.

But the Vision D is much more important than that. It heralds a new design look for the brand, masterminded by Jozef Kaban. He promises future models will combine the spaciousness, authenticity and precision of the current range, but with some passion injected into the mix.
The Skoda badge redrawn

The Skoda badge is also redrawn, sitting proudly on a stretched, wider grille. Did you know the emblem comes from Mr Skoda's obsession with American Indian headpieces? And that roving eye is looking to the future.
Skoda Vision D: the lowdown

The Skoda D's surfaces are taut, clean - and not a little Audi-ish. It looks very neat in the metal, and it's coming to production cars sooner than you may think.

This look will inspire the next generation of Skodas, promised CEO Winfried Vahland, who announced a new product offensive starting next year.

'From 2012 we will launch a new model every six months on average,' he promised.

What will they be? A new Up-based city car and a Focus sized hatch arrive in 2012, followed by the new Octavia in 2013.

Would you bet against a full-size MPV Sharan spin-off? We wouldn't.

Source from carmagazine

Seat IBX concept


On the eve of the 2011 Geneva motor show, Seat has unveiled this IBX crossover concept at the Volkswagen Group’s pre-show party. Designed under the watch of ex-Lamborghini designer Luc Donckerwolke, it’s the second concept car to preview Seat’s future design language, and a strong hint that company is preparing to launch a new, small SUV.
Seat IBX? Was it the Seat IBE that came before?

Yes, and in 2010 we saw two versions of the IBE electric sports coupe – one without an interior, and one with. Those cars should morph into the next Leon, and with any luck the IBX will become a Tiguan-based SUV. 'With the IBX, we are once again demonstrating just how intensively we are working on the renewal of the Seat brand, and how determined we are to develop for the future,' said Seat president James Muir at the unveiling of the IBX. 'Even though a decision has yet to be taken, we could certainly envisage the IBX as a future expansion of our product portfolio.'

The IBX is, of course, a crossover, a two-door mix of SUV and sports car, with almost identical dimensions to the Tiguan. Not too impressed? It might be the hints of Ford Kuga, but also (and unusually for a concept car) the lack of chrome, bling and other show car jewellery – the exterior of the IBX is clean, crisp and minimalist. It’s rather understated. 'The IBX was created from the gene pool of our next vehicle generation,' explained Seat chief designer Luc Donckerwolke. 'This design DNA will have a profound impact on every one of our models.'
What about the Seat IBX’s other concept car touches?

No manufacturer can reveal a concept car these days without it being clean and green, and the Seat IBX is no exception. There’s no actual petrol or diesel engine under the bonnet but Seat claims the IBX has been conceived as a hybrid, and can travel 45 miles on electric power before a direct injection TSI or TDI engine has to take over. The IBX is front-wheel drive to save fuel, but Seat says four-wheel drive could be an option.

We loved the Tribu 4x4 concept from 2007, and this concept shows how a small Seat SUV would now look in line with the Spanish brand’s latest DNA. The company itself admits that the IBX previews a 'possible expansion of the Seat product portfolio', and the Tiguan could provide the platform. You have to suspect that if VW doesn’t give this car the green light car for a market segment that’s rapidly expanding, then it’s given up on Seat.

Source from carmagazine

Saturday 9 April 2011

Saab 9-5 Sportwagon


This is the new Saab 9-5 Sportwagon, and is the third new model released under Spyker ownership after the 9-5 saloon and 9-4X SUV. Saab has released this solitary teaser image ahead of the car’s debut at the 2011 Geneva motor show in March, and while we can’t see the front on the new Saab 9-5 Sportwagon, it’s the back that’s the business end. It’s not your typical hearse-like load lugger: note the raked rear screen and wraparound rear glass.
What do we know about the new Saab 9-5 Sportwagon?

Figures first, and seats up there’s 527 litres of boot space in the new Saab 9-5 Sportwagon. Fold the 60/40-split rear seats and that increases to 1670 litres of cargo space; a 5-series Touring manages 560/1670 litres and the cavernous E-class Estate trumps the pair with 695 and 1950 litres. Blame sleek styling and the lack of a boxy profile for the deficiency of cubic capacity.

The boot itself, Saab promises, is ‘completely flat and upright, creating a clean, open space without any hard-to-use corners or rear wheel-arch intrusions’ and the rear seats fold ‘almost completely flat’ without the need to lift seat squabs or removed headrests'. There’s the usual array of nets, rails and runners to separate your luggage, and there’s an under-floor storage compartment, accessed via an aircraft-shaped handle.

The same turbocharged petrol and diesel engines from the 9-5 saloon will power the Sportwagon, and customers can start ordering their cars from around Geneva motor show time, and deliveries start in September 2011.

Source from carmagazine

Saab Phoenix concept


Saab issued one of the few genuine surprises of the Geneva show: the Phoenix concept car, designed to show the newly independent brand's stylistic future.

Named after the Phoenix platform underpinning many of the company's future products including next year's new 9-3, the concept car is a dramatic coupe. It's the first car designed by Jason Castriota, the new design chief.

He called the new language 'Aeromotional'. But we see plenty of hallmarks of Castriota's work at Bertone, mashed up with references to Saab's past.
Saab Phoenix: a three-door coupe

This is not an additional Saab to aspire to - the Phoenix is very much a directional concept car. Saab has its hands quite full enough getting the 9-5 and 9-3 models into production and, if they're lucky, a 9-1 or 9-2 supermini.

Saab references liquid metal forms and the jet canopy DLO glasshouse, suggesting how future production Saabs could look. The company claims the Phoenix concept car has a drag coefficient of just 0.25.

Being a madcap concept car, there are naturally some zany doors. In this instance, butterfly doors rise up and give access to a 2+2 cabin.
Jason Castriota on the new Saab Phoenix

'The Phoenix establishes a new reference point for the future of Saab product design,' said the new Saab Automobile executive design director. 'It symbolises a renaissance of the innovative spirit and passion that drove Saab to build its first car. We’re now taking the visual DNA forward with what we call ‘aeromotional’ design, adding emotion, power and fluidity. This design aesthetic will shape and differentiate future models in the Saab portfolio.'

The Phoenix packs an electrically-driven rear axle mated to a 197bhp 1.6-litre petrol turbo engine driving the front wheels. Rather like PSA's Hybrid4 system, the new Saab is thus four-wheel drive.

Saab claims a theoretical average of 57mpg and 119g/km of CO2.

Jan Ake Jonsson and Victor Muller spoke too, the latter mentioning his sale of Spyker last week. He said the company's fortunes were better respected by selling the company in its entirety.

Source from carmagazine

Friday 8 April 2011

Renault R-Space concept car


Renault will show off a glimpse of its thinking for the Scenic segment with the new R-Space concept car at the 2011 Geneva motor show. It’s a 4.3m long show car that’s designed to inject some pizzazz where today’s Scenic prefers a more sober style.

The new-fangled Renault look as pioneered by incoming design chief Laurens van den Acker is present and correct: there’s a large diamond on the nose and heaps more character than the current MPV. And check out the panoramic windscreen which blends seamlessly into the roof with a chequerboard of varying transparency.

The R-Space is the latest in a string of Renault concept cars, and each is designed to represent a different life stage. The Dezir sports car was – fittingly – red, while the Juke-style Captur crossover is orange (for mountain-style ‘Explore’ mode) while the family-oriented R-Space is honey-coloured.
Inside the 2011 Renault R-Space

Handclap suicide doors open to reveal a huge opening with no B-pillar. The R-Space’s cabin is designed to represent the family home; the front-seat passengers sit in two buckets, with a sofa-style bench seat in the back.

Don’t go expecting the R-Space’s clever rear seat package to survive for production, however. Twenty-seven motors power miniature upholstered cubes which pop up or down to configure the rear space to accommodate adult passengers, children or luggage. They’re so clever, they can create booster seats, pews for adults, children or lower flat to create a flat load bay. Like the 21in wheels, this is surely an ask too far for production MPVs.
What’s under the bonnet of the Renault R-Space?

The R-Space is powered by a 900cc turbo three-cylinder. It develops 109bhp and heralds the new TCe range coming to Renaults in 2012. The 0.9 has direct-injection and stop start.

It’s yet another example of downsizing: Renault claims it mixes the performance of a 1.6, yet produces just 95g/km of CO2 and averages 76mpg. The concept car mates the engine to a twin-clutch gearbox.

Top speed? 124mph and 0-62mph takes 11sec. That shape isn’t just a huge improvement on the ditchwater styling of today’s Scenic – it’s aerodynamic too. Renault quotes a 0.28 drag coefficient.

Source from carmagazine

Renault Captur concept car


Renault today whisked the covers off the new Captur concept car. It’s a compact SUV akin to alliance partner Nissan’s Juke – and the Renault Captur will be the French brand’s star at the 2011 Geneva motor show in March.

It’s certainly a welcome look at a clean-sheet proposal for an SUV. We’ve never fully warmed to the larger Koleos, a short-cut gleaned from the innards of Renault’s Asian partners.
Renault Captur concept car: the details

The Captur captures Renault’s new design DNA, as pioneered on the 2010 Dezir concept car. As well as the striking new-look Renault nose, there are some interesting design details: the LED indicators flow into a wave the full length of the flanks and there’s a pleasing chunkiness to its shape.

Crafted from carbonfibre, the Captur has a removable roof flipping the crossover between coupe and convertible. The Murano CrossCabriolet over at Nissan has clearly had an impact in the corridors of power at Paris.

Four passengers access the car through butterfly doors, settling into skeletal carbon seats.
Is the Renault Captur an EV?

Nope. Powering the Captur is a twin-turbo version of Renault’s latest dCi engine, spinning the frankly ludicrous – but very cool – 22in black and white rims. This 1.6-litre diesel produces 158bhp and a stout 280lb ft from just 1750rpm.

Paired with a twin-clutch gearbox, the Captur achieves a claimed 99g/km of CO2. Not bad for a baby crossover, albeit presumably a pie-in-the-sky figure for a concept car. Mind you, there are numerous technical advances: a new RX2 mechanical self-locking differential sends torque to whichever front wheel has the best grip. Yep, the Renault Captur is front-wheel drive.

‘Captur is a fun and sporty crossover, ideal for a young couple about to discover the world,’ said director of design Laurens Van den Acker. ‘It takes as its basis the fundamental design language introduced on the Dezir concept car but adds a more technical dimension – more functional but still highly
sensuous.’

Source from carmagazine

Thursday 7 April 2011

Mitsubishi Global Small Concept



Mitsubishi will show this new Global Small Concept car at the 2011 Geneva motor show this spring.

It's one of 12 vehicles on show at the Mitsubishi stand and previews the Japanese car maker's vision for future small cars.
Mitsubishi Global Small Concept car: it's the new Colt

The Global Small Concept in fact forms the basis for a new supermini coming in March 2012. Like Nissan with its Micra, Mitsubishi is shifting production to Thailand.

Although it won't name the new model, it says it's a new 'compact passenger vehicle.' Sounds to us like the new Colt.

The DesignSpeak says the project's buzzwords were 'compact, affordable and efficient', yet it can also seat five adults. It's a pleasingly slick design, judging by this single photograph issued ahead of its debut on 1 March 2011.
What powers the new baby Mitsu?

Engines of between 1.0 and 1.2 litres feature a stop-start system for CO2 emissions below 99g/km, claims Mitsubishi.

Other eco tech includes light weight construction (although no figures are quoted), 'a regenerative braking system' thought to be an intelligent alternator like the Mini's and an emphasis on low resistance in the engine and CVT auto transmission.

Source from carmagazine

Morgan Threewheeler




Morgan surprised us all today by going back in time and unveiling the new-for-2011 roadster Threewheeler.

Morgan started out making three-wheelers and from next year it will do so again; between 1909 and 1953 Morgan manufactured around 30,000 three-wheelers. One even won the French Grand Prix in 1913 and Stirling Moss owned one.
And what of the new 2011 Morgan Threewheeler?

The new Morgan will be fitted with the latest 'Screaming Eagle' 1800cc twin engine from a Harley Davidson married to a five-speed manual transmission from Mazda.

It's based on a tubular frame wrapped in aluminium superformed bodywork. Think old Morgan three-wheeler style, brought up to date with new tech.

The leather-padded cockpit will be protected by two rollover bars, but there is no hood available. Morgan claims a kerbweight of 500kg.

That light weight will ensure rapid performance: 0-62mph takes just 4.5sec and top speed is estimated at 115mph (if you're feeling brave enough).
When can I buy the new Morgan Threewheeler?

The car will be launched at the 2011 Geneva motor show, with UK sales expected in summer 2011. Prices will be announced at launch, but CAR understands around £30,000 is likely.

Morgan will build around 800 cars this year; a spokeswoman said that they have no idea what demand will be like for the Threewheeler, but they plan to monitor reaction in the run-up to its Swiss launch.

Certainly one of the more interesting launches this autumn...

Wednesday 6 April 2011

Nissan Esflow electric concept car

Nissan Esflow electric concept carNissan may be all goody two shoes with the Leaf electric car - but this new Esflow concept car is designed to prove to the world that Nissan can make EVs exciting too.

The new Nissan Esflow will be shown at the 2011 Geneva motor show. It's essentially a rebodied Leaf, using that car's battery know-how wrapped in a dramatic sports coupe body.
So the Nissan Esflow is a rebodied Leaf, right?

Not quite. It's rear-wheel drive, for starters, and each rear wheel has its own motor. And the performance figures won't be that familiar to anyone who's driven a Leaf.

The Esflow charges to 62mph in 'less than 5.0sec', although we suspect doing so may dent the claimed 150-mile range.
What's the purpose of the Nissan Esflow?

Remember the GT-R and 370Z? Nissan has a unique brand stretch, from some of the most monumental contemporary performance cars - stretching all the way to the saintly Leaf and a raft of upcoming battery electric vehicles.

The Esflow is designed to bridge those two extremes. The marketing department is desperate for us to latch on to Renault-Nissan's EVs, and showcasing a pie-in-the-sky electric sports car is deemed a great way to stoke interest in battery tech.

Speaking of batteries, the Esflow has the same laminated lithium-ion batteries as the Leaf, but mounted low and centrally in its aluminium chassis - the better to keep the centre of gravity low and central. The platform is then cloaked in composite panels.

Because the structure is inherently so strong and incrorporates a rollcage, there is no need for huge chunky A-pillars, claims Nissan. Hence the visor, wraparound windscreen.
Nissan Esflow: the details

Blue LEDs are built into the composite body, giving the Esflow an eerie, futuristic quality. And the charging points are another bright idea: they're discreetly built into flip-up ducts beneath the headlamps. The cabin's seats are fixed, making them much lighter; instead, the wheel and pedals move electrically.

The Nissan Esflow will be displayed alongside the Leaf, the 95g/km Micra 1.2 DIG-S three-cylinder and a 370Z GT Edition.

Source from carmagazine

Rinspeed BamBoo concept

Rinspeed BamBoo conceptThere’s no doubt the folk at Rinspeed like to think outside the box when it comes to concept cars – and the new BamBoo will evoke plenty of admiration when it makes its debut at the Geneva motor show in March 2011.
Bamboo: a bit of a silly name for a car isn't it?

Not for Swiss car visionary Frank Rinderknecht it isn't. He says every name has a meaning and in this case it's because many of the interior features are made from actual bamboo fibres. And why not? Bamboo has been used as a building materials for houses, musical instruments and bicycles for years.

Although we're not sure what would happen if you parked the Rinspeed BamBoo next to a Fiat Panda...
What's the idea behind such a wacky design?

It wouldn't be Rinspeed if it wasn't wacky. They've already made a car that can cross water and now they want to attract beachgoers with this open-top vehicle. The Swiss manufacturer says it can imagine Brigitte Bardot behind the wheel with playboy Gunther Sachs at her side heading towards Tahiti beach. Quite.
You have to admit it looks a bit like a golf buggy?

Yep. Keep it away from the Welsh rugby team who would no doubt see it has the perfect vehicle to grab a midnight snack from a nearby service station.

Unlike a golf buggy though the BamBoo offers four seats and gives its passengers the opportunity to enjoy a free-air ride. The Swiss company tells us the creation is aimed at bringing back the 'free spirit of the 70s'.
What else does it showcase?

The front-wheel drive vehicle is driven by an electric motor providing a maximum power output of 72 bhp and 103 lb ft of torque at 4500 rpm.

The BamBoo can accelerate from 0–31mph in 4.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 75mph. It has a lithium ion phosphate battery pack that provides a range of around 65 miles at 56mph, according to its makers.

Source from carmagazine

Tuesday 5 April 2011

Rolls-Royce 102EX concept car

Rolls-Royce 102EX concept car
Rolls-Royce 102EX concept carRolls-Royce has confirmed it will show its first electric car at the 2011 Geneva motor show. The 102EX is the latest in a line of concept cars – EX stands for experimental – which history suggests should go on to influence production cars.

The Rolls-Royce 102EX is known internally as the Phantom Experimental Electric and is being used to judge reaction to a battery-powered Roller among owners clubs and media.

Engineers are using the pilot project to test the real-world range of a heavy electric Rolls-Royce, to judge the refinement of an EV drivetrain appropriate to a Rolls-Royce and to monitor the batteries’ performance in cold weather.
Rolls-Royce 102EX: the electric Rolls

CAR broke the story about Rolls preparing electric cars back in 2008. As part of the BMW empire, Rolls-Royce is planning alternative powertrains just as much as Mini is.

The two extremes of the BMW range might seem like chalk and cheese, but this joint approach makes sense. Your typical Rolls-Royce owner might not be quite as fussed by fuel prices as a Cooper owner, but their environmental conscience may be just as wholesome. It makes a lot of sense for a CEO or aristo not to flaunt consumption in these straitened times.
Rolls-Royce CEO speaks

‘We have engineered the world’s first battery electric vehicle for the ultra-luxury segment,’ said CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös. ‘With this vehicle, we begin an exploration into alternative drivetrains, seeking clarity on which alternative technologies may be suitable to drive Rolls-Royce motor cars of the future.’

This afternoon, parent firm BMW will make a further announcement on the future of its ‘Project i’ cars. The company is planning a sub-brand for its future electric vehicles, such as the Megacity Vehicle.
Electric Rolls-Royce: the background

Former Rolls CEO Tom Purves told Gavin Green: ‘Many of our customers do small mileages exclusively in the city. For these customers, an electric Rolls-Royce would be ideal. We stand for unmatched refinement and you can’t get a quieter and less intrusive engine than a well engineered electric motor. Truly, the loudest noise you would hear would be the tick of the clock. We also stand for strong and instant torque – and an electric motor delivers maximum torque instantly. The “waftability” would be fantastic.’

Source from carmagazine

Porsche 911 Black Edition

Porsche 911 Black EditionThe current Porsche 911 isn’t dead yet – this is the run-out Black Edition special. Just 1911 examples will ever be built, and it’s loaded with extras to keep 911 sales ticking over until the all-new version is unveiled later this year.
So what’s special about the Porsche 911 Black Edition?

Unlike the Carrera GTS, which is the most focussed (and brilliant) 911 this side of a Porsche Motorsport product, the Black Edition is based on the entry level Carrera. That means a 3.6-litre flat six with 340bhp. But on top of that the Black Edition boasts non-metallic black paint (metallic Basalt Black is an option) and 19in 911 Turbo II forged alloys. And if you opt for a 911 Cabriolet, the fabric hood is black cloth.

On the inside there is black ‘Black Edition’ lettering on the stainless steel kick plates, black leather, a SportDesign steering wheel, an upgraded Bose stereo system, sat-nav, cruise, rear parking sensors, rain-sensing wipers, and contrasting aluminium-look paint on the fascia trip, gear level and air vents. A badge on the glovebox also lets you know the production number of your car.

What do all these extras cost you? Nothing, as the £67,270 911 coupe and £74,958 Cabriolet cost exactly the same as the standard 911 Carrera and Cabriolet models. UK sales of the Porsche 911 Black Edition start in April 2011.

Source from carmagazine

Monday 4 April 2011

Porsche Panamera S Hybrid 2011 Geneva Picture

Porsche Panamera S Hybrid 2011 Geneva PictureThis is the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid, the cleanest, most fuel efficient Porsche ever. On the official combined fuel cycle it manages 159g/km and 41.5mpg, a big improvement on the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid’s 34.3mpg and 193g/km, and comfortably ahead of the best non-hybrid Porsche, the PDK-equipped Cayman (31mpg and 214g/km CO2). The new Porsche Panamera S Hybrid will be unveiled at the 2011 Geneva motor show in March.
The Porsche Panamera S Hybrid manages 159g/km? That’s pretty impressive…

Yes, but there’s a catch. To achieve 159g/km and 41.5mpg you need to spec the optional lower rolling resistance Michelin tyres. Stick with the standard rubber and you’ll only manage 39.8mpg and 167g/km. In the CO2-obsessed UK the trick Michelin tyres will be standard, helping the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid best electrified rivals from Infiniti and Lexus. And although the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 and Mercedes S400 Hybrid aren’t available in Great Britain, this new Panamera boasts better figures than the pair of them too.

The trick to achieving these figures is a 329bhp supercharged and direct-injected 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine, mated to a 34kW electric motor and a nickel metal hydride (NiMh) battery. The total output for the system is 374bhp, the engine and motor can work alone or in tandem, and the motor acts as a generator and starter motor as well.

In electric-only mode the hybrid Panamera has a range of 1.24 miles and reach 53mph, and it can ‘sail’ with the engine off and disengaged at speeds of up to 103mph. The Panamera S Hybrid is rear-wheel drive, and features the eight-speed automatic from the Cayenne, rather than the PDK gearbox that’s used in other versions of Porsche’s limo.

UK sales start in June 2011, and the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid will cost £86,227, £8774 more than the 394bhp, 26.9mpg and 247g/km V8-engined Panamera S.

Source from carmagazine

Porsche Boxster S Black Edition

Porsche Boxster S Black Edition
Porsche Boxster S Black EditionAnother week, and rather than just another Porsche, it’s another Black Edition Porsche special – this is the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition. There’s more power and more standard kit, but the price is higher too. Just 987 will ever be built, in a nod to Porsche’s internal numerical designation for the Boxster.
So what’s new on the new Porsche Boxster S Black Edition?

Let’s start with the mid-mounted engine, which is upgraded to Boxster Spyder-spec with an extra 10bhp and 7lb ft, taking the totals of the 3.4-litre flat six to 316bhp at 7200rpm and 273lb ft at 4750rpm. Combined with the standard-fit six-speed manual, the extra power knocks a tenth off the 0-62mph time – down to 5.2secs – but apparently doesn’t affect the fuel consumption.

Exterior tweaks include black paint, a black set of the Boxster Spyder’s lightweight 19in alloys, black 'Boxster S' lettering on the rear luggage compartment lid, 'Black Edition' script on the black fabric hood, plus black roll bars, black air intakes, and black exhaust pipes.
Is the interior white?

Err, no. The 'Black Edition' lettering on the kick plates is black, the leather is black, the dials are black, the dashboard trim strips are black, and… you get the idea. A badge on the glovebox lets you know which of the 987 cars you’ve bought, while sat-nav, Bluetooth, an upgraded stereo and bi-xenon lamps are standard.

UK sales commence in March 2011 with prices starting at £47,426, just undercutting the £47,843 Boxster Spyder, but £3626 more than a Boxster S.

Source from carmagazine

Sunday 3 April 2011

Mini Cooper SD

Mini Cooper SDMini today finally went official with the high-performance diesels we scooped last year. The Cooper SD trim is available across the Mini range, on the hatch, convertible, Clubman estate and Countryman junior SUV.

It's a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel generating 141bhp and 225lb ft from 1750-2700rpm. The new Mini Cooper SD models should be quite punchy then; that's more muscle than a John Cooper Works petrol turbo.
How fast is the new 2011 Mini Cooper SD?

Mini quotes a 134mph and 0-62mph in 8.1sec. Rather more importantly in this age of austerity, common-rail direct injection, stop-start and intelligent auxiliary control that cuts off the alternator and other power-sapping accessories means that it's also admirably frugal.

Emissions and economy range from 114g/km and 65.7mpg on the SD hatchback, stretching up to 130g/km and 57.6mpg on the lardier Countryman SD.

The six-speed manual is the standard transmission on the Cooper SD Minis, but buyers can spec up to a six-speed auto. Mini quotes a 22.8kg weight for the manual, by the way.
How to spot a Mini Cooper SD

All sporty diesel Minis come with a bigger front air intake on the front apron, twin central exhausts and a roof spoiler. Overtones of the petrol Cooper S, in other words. There's also an SD motif on the side indicator.
The new Sport pack

Mini also today announced a new John Cooper Works inspired styling kit available on all hatchbacks and convertibles.

It brings new aprons front and rear, honeycomb mesh, more pronounced side skirts and an interior makeover: JCW leather wheel, sports seats, piano black trim and bonnet stripes are all bundled in.

Sport trim also includes handling aids, including Mini's Dynamic Traction Control and Electronic Differential Lock Control (it's not a real diff), plus 17in JCW cross-spoke alloy wheels.

Prices start at £2150, but vary between models.

Source from carmagazine

Saturday 2 April 2011

Peugeot 308 facelift

Peugeot 308 faceliftIt's facelift time for the Peugeot 308. The 2011 mid-life fillip brings a modest refresh, with tweaked engines, the promise of emissions as low as 98g/km of CO2 and a raft of minor styling and spec enhancements.
How to spot the new facelifted 2011 Peugeot 308

Although this is a minor facelift, the 308 is easily spotted by its new-era Peugeot look. There are numerous front-end accoutrements pilfered from the 508 and, to a lesser extent, the SR1 concept car which laid a stylistic marker for the brand.

LED day-running lights are now de rigueur, nay mandatory with the impending EU rule change. Peugeot says the latest EU5 compliant engines have been fettled to lower emissions and fuel consumption, not least with stop-start. Thus equipped, the 1.6 e-HDi trims carbon down to 98g//km - the lowest in its segment, according to its maker.

Intrestingly, some weight has been trimmed from all models as part of the 2011 facelift. On average, 25kg has been removed, while aero tweaks have smoothed the shape to a slippery 0.28 drag coefficient.
When does the 2011 Peugeot 308 arrive?

In the UK Peugeot will market the facelifted 2011 308 with four model trims: Access, SR, Active and Allure; the top models in the UK are the THP 200 hatchback and CC. Prices start at £15,245 when it lands in dealers in May 2011, and standard equipment across the board includes stability control, remote locking, six airbags and a plethora of electro-handling nannies.
Peugeot 308: the sales story

Although critics in the UK have never warmed to the 308, it remains a big selling vehicle line for Peugeot. It has flogged more than 900,000 308s worldwide since launch in September 2007. Of those, 84,000 were in the UK.

The newly pepped-up 2011 facelift will be shown for the first time at the 2011 Geneva motor show.

Source from carmagazine

Mini Rocketman concept

Mini Rocketman conceptThe new Mini Rocketman is manna from heaven for critics who bemoan the new BMW Mini’s growth spurt from bijou city car to bloated supersized mini. The Rocketman, Mini’s 2011 Geneva motor show debutant, is a blueprint for a new kind of smaller Mini – and it’s within an inch or two of Alec Issignois’s 1959 original.

Don’t dismiss the Mini Rocketman as pie-in-the-sky concept. CAR has already reported how a mini Mini is coming around 2016, to join a newly expanded family of Minis which will grow to include the Mk3 hatchback in three- and five-door, a convertible, estate, Countryman, coupe, roadster and high-roof activity tourer.

Yep, Mini saturation is going to continue for a while yet.
How small is the new mini Mini?

The Rocketman is 3419mm long, trimming a good 304mm – or 12in – from today’s Mini hatch. In that space, there’s room for 3+1 seating in a shrunken three-door hatchback body style, whose double-hinged doors and split tailgate are designed to ease access to this munchkin Mini. The full stats are:

Length: 3419mm (current Mini hatch 3723mm)
Width: 1907mm (1683mm)
Height: 1398mm (1407mm)

We had to pick the photo of the Rocketman surrounded by strange, blurry people to give some context to its diminutive size. It’s clearly no great departure from the modern Mini norm, but there is a dash of comic detailing to make it stand out from the existing hordes of estate agents’ cars in the snobbier districts of London.
Mini Rocketman: the technical story

This Mini is pared back to the minimum. And before you get on the phone to your Mini dealership, remember this concept car has a very unfeasible carbonfibre spaceframe visible throughout the car’s footprint. And we somehow doubt the trick doors and 350mm-extending boot ‘drawer’ would survive into production.

That light weight contributes to a 94mpg economy figure, although BMW hasn’t yet spelled out the powertrain. That mpg figure would probably be less if the wheels weren’t 18in in diameter...
And that terrible Mini Rocketman name?

The less said about the name, the better. Let’s just say that the Germans have a long and terrible history of plucking inappropriate names from the arts world. Remember the Audi Steppenwolf?

Now they’re plundering the Elton John back catalogue.

Source from carmagazine

Friday 1 April 2011

Lotus Evora

Lotus Evora
In the avalanche of hype surrounding Lotus's future ambitions, the current range of Lotus vehicles has been largely overlooked. With this in mind, Lotus has turned to an unexpected source to inject some media buzz and visual freshness into the Evora for the 2011 Geneva motor show: Mansory.

Under the slogan 'Is it always wise to customise? If you must then do it with some style' Lotus has commissioned Mansory to customise the Evora – continuing the run of controversial new moves that the firm has made under CEO Dany Bahar’s leadership.
Lotus Evora: what Mansory's done

Mansory has applied its well-known carbonfibre fetish to the Lotus coupe, bringing the Evora closer to the edgy styling cues of design chief Donato Coco’s next-generation Lotus concept cars.

Readers fearing an Evora smothered by expensive materials with the exuberance/gaudiness Mansory has become infamous for may be mildly reassured by the preview photos: the Evora by Mansory features carbonfibre-trimmed extremities, but is not a comprehensive assault on the styling of the current car.

Lotus has officially denied that the Mansory-massaged concept previews an official Evora facelift, stating that 'it’s a taste of the future of Lotus product customisation.'
When will we see the Mansory Evora?

The Evora by Mansory will be officially unveiled on 1 March 2011, at the Geneva motor show. No word at this stage on production plans or whether the car signals an ongoing link between Lotus and Mansory. Stay tuned to CAR for our coverage from Geneva to find out more.

Source from carmagazine

Mercedes C63 AMG facelift

Mercedes C63 AMG faceliftThis is the new 2011 Mercedes C63 AMG, a facelifted version of the three-pointed star’s hot rod family saloon.
So, more power? And the new twin-turbo 5.5-litre V8, right?

Nope. The power and torque outputs remain unchanged, because under the bonnet is still the same 6.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 as before. Peak power is 451bhp at 6800rpm, and there’s 443lb ft at 5000rpm, too. Or you can opt for the AMG Performance pack, which slots in the forged pistons, conrods and crankshaft from the SLS supercar, and ups the figure to 480bhp. Red brake calipers and a part-Alcantara wheel are included in the Performance pack, which Merc claims over 30% of C63 customers stump up the extra cash for.

The most significant change is the adoption of Mercedes’ AMG Speedshift MCT gearbox – as found in the CLS63, SL63, etc. There’s no torque convertor, but a ‘wet start-off clutch’, which means more efficient and direct responses. Its default setting is the planet-friendly Controlled Efficiency mode, and together with a new power steering pump, helps drop the saloon’s fuel consumption and CO2 figures from 21.1mpg and 312g/km to 23.5mpg and 280g/km, and the estate’s from 20.8 and 316g/km to 23mpg and 288g/km. And with the new ‘box comes AMG’s Drive Unit with a dial for the gearbox settings.

Other tweaks include a revised AMG bodykit, tweaked suspension, a ‘powerdome’ aluminium bonnet (pictures of the revised C63 AMG sporting a standard C-class bonnet leaked out onto the world wide web last month), the new-look front and rear lights from the recently facelifted regular C-class, the latest round of Mercedes driver assistance and telematics tech, improved cabin materials, plus the obligatory LED daytime running lights and the steering wheel from the CLS63 AMG.

UK sales start in July 2011, and the C63 AMG saloon should cost around £55k – a proper locking differential remains a must-have option.

Source from carmagazine