You don"t need to sail...
You don"t need to sail around the world to find a great deal. Renault has announced a special edition of its Espace called the Globe Ellen MacArthur in honour of the record-breaking Dame. The limited-run MPV has a choice of three engines; a 2.0-litre petrol at í‚á£21,995, a 1.9 dCi for í‚á£22,995 and 2.2 dCi priced í‚á£25,995. Based on the Expression trim, the new version adds a glass panoramic sunroof, sat-nav and a six-disc CD changer.
Auto and Law
A British firm is doing...
A British firm is doing brisk business with its range of Tuk-Tuks, the three-wheelers popular in the Far East. "I"ve delivered four in the UK, and have orders for another five," said Steve Webb, boss of Freewheeler Autos, Southampton. The motorised rickshaws are a favourite with restaurant delivery drivers.
A car that TV interior...
A car that TV interior design guru Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen would be proud of has been unveiled by Honda. For the first time, buyers are being offered wooden floors as an option. Available in either "natural" or "brown" shades, the innovation features in the Japan-only Step Wagon MPV, a boxy
A Dutch car dealer has...
A Dutch car dealer has refuted claims China"s Jiangling Landwind SUV is dangerous. In issue 877, we pictured the remains of one model after it had been subjected to a 40mph crash test by German motoring organisation ADAC. Importer Peter Bijvelds says that the off-roader meets all European requirements. "The Jiangling is safe," he insisted.
A ForFour tuned by Brabus...
A ForFour tuned by Brabus will go on display at the Geneva Motor Show, and hits showrooms in May. It is likely to develop 177bhp from its Mitsubishi CZT-sourced 1.5-litre engine, and covers 0-62mph in around seven seconds, before reaching a top speed of 137mph. The handling will be uprated and a Brabus bodykit fitted.
Aircraft-style black...
Aircraft-style black boxes could be in all cars before the decade is out. America"s National Transportation Safety Board wants the recording devices to become mandatory by 2009. Black boxes would show how fast a vehicle was going before a crash, and also if seatbelts were worn and how hard drivers braked.
American giant Cadillac...
American giant Cadillac will get the wagons rolling with estate versions of its BLS and new CTS, which debuted in Detroit. With fewer than 400 Cadillacs sold in Britain last year, the firm needs a wider range.
A much-needed relief...
A much-needed relief road in Lincolnshire has finally opened, months after it was actually completed. The Bourne bypass has remained cordoned off because of a dispute between the local council and the builders. The new stretch links the A15 Lincoln to Peterborough road with the A151 from Grantham to Colsterworth.
And then there were...
And then there were three! British sports car firm Noble is set to unveil its third model, the M15, which will sit alongside the M400 and M12 GTO-3R. Based on the M14 concept seen at 2004"s British Motor Show, the 455bhp, 3.0-litre mid-engined vehicle will start at around ÷£75,000 when it arrives at the end of the year.
An estate agent is reinventing...
An estate agent is reinventing the wheel - the steering wheel, that is. Dennis Bellehumeur of Florida has patented a device that can detect alcohol in the sweat on the palms of a driver"s hands. By embedding it in the wheel and linking it to the vehicle"s ignition system, he hopes the unit will cut drink-driving.
A new hybrid powertrain...
A new hybrid powertrain, which uses a three-cylinder petrol engine mated to an electric motor, is being developed by Lotus Engineering.
A new Matiz is the top...
A new Matiz is the top prize in the Daewoo Young Driver Challenge. The competition has been organised by the Road Safety Council of Wales in a bid to cut the number of accidents on Welsh roads involving drivers aged 17-24. Last year, more than 2,800 were killed or injured. Visit www.roscow.org.uk/challenge or call 029 2025 0600 for details.
A new version of Hyundai"s...
A new version of Hyundai"s Sonata executive car is set to debut at the Paris Motor Show next month. It will hit showrooms early in 2005, along with a facelifted Coup탩. The firm will also open a new factory in Alabama, USA, next year - it will build the Sonata, Santa Fe off-roader and the flagship XG350.
A revised Peugeot 206...
A revised Peugeot 206 line-up has been announced with a range of special offers. There"s a new 1.1-litre Sport derivative, which has all the visual appeal of the racy í‚á£13,770 GTi, but costs only í‚á£8,995. At the other end of the scale, a 1.1 Independence is priced at í‚á£7,595. Models across the line-up are now available with free insurance for over 21s.
A rubbish idea won a...
A rubbish idea won a Brit top prize in Honda"s worldwide employee competition. Every year, staff are asked to devise solutions to internal problems. This year, Natascia Leone (image) from Honda"s UK press office won with her idea for recycling waste. But the prize - an all-expenses-paid trip to Istanbul, Turkey - was anything but trash!
A Saab 900 owned by...
A Saab 900 owned by Brit Peter Gilbert clocked up 1,001,385 miles and survived eight deer collisions before he gave it to a car museum in Hartford, Wisconsin, US.
A simple safety device...
A simple safety device designed to remind motorists which side of the road they should be driving on has been endorsed by the Institute of Advanced Motorists. Onside is a strap with chevrons on it that sits around the steering wheel. It can be adjusted to indicate which way to join the traffic flow. Log on to www.chutedesign.co.uk for info.
A staggering í‚á£200...
A staggering í‚á£200 per hour - that"s what the average UK driver will pay a mechanic for servicing within three years. According to cover firm Warranty Direct, in the past 12 months the average price for 60 minutes" work rose four per cent. If that continues, the costliest dealers will hit í‚á£200 by 2008.
A Swiss firm is set...
A Swiss firm is set to revolutionise multi-storey parking with its latest design. Skyline Innovations" "smartP" is a fully automated garage that uses a quarter of the space of a normal development. The motorist drives on to a platform, where the car is measured and moved into one of the tower"s 399 spaces.
Audi"s S line trim can...
Audi"s S line trim can now be specified on a wider range of Audi A3 Sportback models. The package, which includes alloy wheels, sports suspension and part-leather upholstery for a í‚á£1,000 premium, is available on all quattro or DSG-equipped cars. The "Open Sky" panoramic sunroof can also now be added as a í‚á£1,500 option on all models.
Auto Express is looking...
Auto Express is looking for readers to help test an innovative computer-based questionnaire. The author claims the survey can assess a person"s driving style without them ever having to get behind the wheel. If you"d like to take part in the exclusive study, please E-mail mat_watson@dennis.co.uk with your contact details.
B1G C4SH payouts totalling...
B1G C4SH payouts totalling í‚á£2.4million are being made by the Government to consultants to help market DVLA personalised reg plate sales. The firms receiving the money say it"s justified as 100,000 plates are sold a year, bringing in í‚á£700m. The details were revealed after a Freedom of Information Act request.
Benefits of using the...
Benefits of using the inert gas include the prevention of rubber corrosion, excess wear and loss of pressure. Interested drivers will need to have their tyres inflated with nitrogen professionally, as all normal air needs to be removed first. This costs as little as £2 per wheel. Contact your local tyre fitter for details.
Bentley has confirmed...
Bentley has confirmed it"s ruled out using the VW Group"s W16 engine in the Arnage or any other model in the foreseeable future. The Crewe firm says it will stick with V8 technology instead. Bosses have also revealed an Arnage style of vehicle will continue in the line-up, to complement the Continental GT and the forthcoming saloon.
Billed as a replacement...
Billed as a replacement for the more conservative Almera, it"s been penned at Nissan"s European design HQ in Paddington. The model has unusual glass sections of the roof, which should guarantee an airy cabin - although buyers will have to wait until 2007 to find out. The Tone"s radical look coincides with a Tokyo exhibition marking 50 years of Nissan design.
Bosses at Nissan have...
Bosses at Nissan have gone camera crazy! After fitting rear-facing lenses to cars to aid parking, staff at the firm"s Sunderland plant can now watch themselves on screen at work. A unique new system aids workers in the trim and chassis shop by allowing
British firm MG Rover...
British firm MG Rover has raised in excess of í‚á£100million for developing new models by selling its parts business to Caterpillar Logistics (UK). The latter firm has been running the operation for the Longbridge maker since 2001 from its Leicestershire base. An MG Rover spokesman said owners seeking spares won"t notice any change.
British holidaymakers...
British holidaymakers whizzing through France this summer face a speed camera onslaught that bagged 4.2 million drivers last year, warns the AA Motoring Trust.
British weather is not...
British weather is not the most reliable, but when the sun is out a good screenwash is essential. This cherry-fragranced wash tackles dirt, grime and insect deposits while leaving a fresh scent throughout the car. It can be used all year round, as winter temperatures are not a problem ò€“ it prevents freezing down to -9Ò°C.
Called the Volpe, it"s...
Called the Volpe, it"s a zero-emissions electric vehicle, and comes in two forms. The basic model is capable of 40mph; a hot 4WD version hits 84mph.
Campaign group People...
Campaign group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has launched an international campaign aimed at getting Mercedes to offer non-leather upholstery as an optional extra across its range in every country. The campaign follows the organisation"s success against the German giant in India.
Chevrolet has launched...
Chevrolet has launched a new payment plan called 3 And Easy, which offers no interest, fees or monthly instalments. Buyers pay one third of the list price when placing an order for a new Chevy, another after 12 months and the remainder two years later. The arrangement is available throughout July on a range of models.
Citroen has released...
Citroen has released prices for its facelifted C5. Despite a higher spec, the base 1.8i LX is unchanged at í‚á£14,795. The entry-level diesel stays at í‚á£15,595, but uses a new 110bhp 1.6-litre HDi engine. Estate versions will cost í‚á£1,100 more than their saloon equivalent.
Civil liberty campaigners...
Civil liberty campaigners have slammed plans to introduce roadside fingerprinting of motorists.
Costly aftermarket accessories...
Costly aftermarket accessories won’t add value to your car – fact! Trade experts say many dealers are unwilling to buy heavily modified machines, and owners face a lower selling price than for standard models, despite spending hundreds on upgrades. To limit losses, motorists are advised to buy extras only from reputable brands.
Create a design for...
Create a design for the removable panels, and Peugeot will make the best. The winner will also spend a week with a 1007 featuring their trim. Send your entry - hand-drawn or computer-generated - on a sheet of A4 by 11 April to: Peugeot Design Competition, Auto Express, 30 Cleveland St, London W1T 4JD. Normal competition rules apply.
Criminals and those...
Criminals and those seen as anti-social are facing unlimited driving bans. New legislation introduced this month allows magistrates to remove the right to drive from anybody found guilty of misusing their vehicle. This includes offences such as kerb crawling and car dumping. So-called boy-racers, who terrorise neighbourhoods, are also targeted.
Dog owners are the dirtiest...
Dog owners are the dirtiest drivers, followed by boy racers, then young women, says a new study. Boffins working for oil retailer Comma counted colonies of bacteria in a wide number of motors. Those which carried pets hosted an average of 766 strains, while cars owned by young males and girls in their twenties had 541 and 468 types respectively.
Drivers are causing...
Drivers are causing congestion - by being too polite! Motorists in Harrogate, N Yorks, have been told by the local council their good manners are causing chaos on Skipton Road - the town"s busiest route. A spokesman said: "Courteous drivers are letting too many vehicles filter in from side roads, and this severely affects traffic flow."
Drivers will soon have...
Drivers will soon have traffic updates at their fingertips. Hi-tech touch-screen information points are to be fitted at motorway rest areas if trials are a success. The first plasma screen unit has been installed at Hopwood Park services on the M42 in Warwickshire. It provides details of hold-ups nationwide and is updated every five minutes.
Eleven per cent admitted...
Eleven per cent admitted to lying about where they keep their car - pretending it is kept overnight in a locked garage is the most common lie. And further questioning revealed nearly a quarter of motorists (24 per cent) have driven without a valid MoT and 18 per cent have been on the road with an expired tax disc.
Engineers at Prodrive...
Engineers at Prodrive are going green. The Oxfordshire firm has agreed a deal to build the Tango, a radical electric car. The two-seater is only 1.20 metres wide, and uses a 1+1 seating layout. It was designed by US firm Commuter Cars Corporation (CCC), and Prodrive - best known for its Subaru specials - will build 100 for sale in the States.
Engineers at Toyota...
Engineers at Toyota are to contact fire chiefs directly, following our shock story about the Prius in last week"s issue. We revealed how rescuers claim they don"t have details of hybrid fuel systems, allowing them to safely cut drivers out after an accident. "Now we"re going straight to the top," said a Toyota spokesman.
Externally, the Evo...
Externally, the Evo IX gets minor bodywork changes over the XIII. At the front, a redesigned bumper and spoiler improve aerodynamics, while increasing the air going under the bonnet and to the brakes. At the rear, there are smaller light clusters. British sales are expected to start in May next year.
Fifteen per cent of...
Fifteen per cent of renewals are already made at www.vehiclelicence.gov.uk/EvlPortalApp/ - the once-secret site exclusively revealed in Auto Express (Issue 801). With an interactive phone service also offered, 3.5 million fewer drivers now use the PO for fresh discs. The DVLA hopes online renewals will reach 60 per cent within two years.
Firms are being encouraged...
Firms are being encouraged to curb accidents involving drivers at work by sharing safety rules online.
Flour power has arrived!...
Flour power has arrived! Boffins have invented an energy-boosting additive for diesel fuel made from wheat. Scientists at the University of Wisconsin in America have developed a lab technique that extracts 90 per cent of the plant"s energy and turns it into ethanol. It can then be added to diesel, reducing the amount of actual fuel needed.
For those who want more...
For those who want more power from the Crossfire, Chrysler has launched a supercharged option. The new 330bhp variant, called the SRT-6, goes on sale in April, with prices starting at í‚á£34,335 and í‚á£35,335 for the Coup탩 and Roadster respectively. Meanwhile, the cost of the naturally aspirated models has been cut by í‚á£2,000.
Free kit worth í‚á£900...
Free kit worth í‚á£900 is the reason to buy the Fabia SE, according to Skoda. The supermini comes with air-conditioning and alloy wheels on top of the standard Classic or Comfort trim. Prices start from í‚á£7,495 for the Classic 1.2 54bhp petrol, and rise to í‚á£11,710 for the Comfort 1.9 TDI 100bhp estate.
Fuel blockades could...
Fuel blockades could be back. The Scottish Road Haulage Association is urging members to protest at increasing pump prices. The Government is already under pressure to ease the burden on drivers by cancelling the tax increase announced in March"s Budget, which is due to be implemented on 1 September.
Have you ever been annoyed...
Have you ever been annoyed by an item on the bill when your car was serviced? Perhaps it was a charge of í‚á£10 for filling the windscreen wiper fluid bottle? Or a costly "cleaning fee"? Did you complain, and what happened? E-mail your stories to richard_yarrow@dennis.co.uk or call him on 020 7907 6215.
Hereò€™s proof that...
Hereò€™s proof that money canò€™t buy taste! London firm Alchemist is offering to clad your car roof with 24-carat gold leaf. Itò€™s the ultimate decal, but it doesnò€™t come cheap, with prices from Ò£12,500.
If it crashes, swerves...
If it crashes, swerves or emergency brakes, the camera saves 10 seconds before and after the incident. "DriveCam won"t store anything permanently unless the vehicle is jarred, so it protects your privacy," said a company spokesman. The í‚á£700 device has the backing of the Institute of Advanced Motorists.
If you or someone you...
If you or someone you know is considering buying an SUV and would like to know the full picture, email us NOW with your contact details to find out more: caroline.austin @silverriver.tv Or call 020 7631 0176
I"ll drink to that!...
I"ll drink to that! Auto Express and our columnist Mike Brewer joined other celebs for this year"s Beaujolais Run in aid of London"s famed Great Ormond Street Hospital. A total of 22 teams raced from the capital"s Tower Bridge to bring the first bottles of the wine back to the UK from France, raising money for charity.
In a breakdown, a third...
In a breakdown, a third of new motorists would call their mum or dad for help. Only 25 per cent of those asked were recovery service members, and of those who weren"t, nearly half would call for a breakdown truck despite the potentially high cost for non-members. Only 10 per cent would attempt their own fix.
Inside the cabin there...
Inside the cabin there are fresh materials and trim colours. The dashboard has also been modified, with new high-quality soft-touch plastics being introduced.
Islington Council and...
Islington Council and its partners NCP has announced that the council is to stop clamping illegally parked cars on the borough"s streets. "We are listening to residents," says council leader Steve Hitchins: "They say "clamping-it just doesn"t make sense" and we are responding by calling a halt to clamping."
Is this the priciest...
Is this the priciest spoiler ever? Subaru"s Impreza wing, developed by Prodrive, costs í‚á£585 - and that"s without paint!It"s one of several new accessories offered by the maker for its models in 2006. Other items include reverse parking sensors at í‚á£164.99, rain-sensing wipers for í‚á£195 and a Bluetooth mobile phone kit.
It"s a modified version...
It"s a modified version of the US-badged Civic Si, and the coup탩 body is clad in aggressive spoilers and skirts, rounded off by dramatic 18-inch alloys, carbon fibre trim and Brembo brakes.
It"s a motoring landmark!...
It"s a motoring landmark! A private customer has taken delivery of a hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicle for the first time. John Spallino from California will lease a multi-million pound Honda FCX for í‚á£280 a month. There are already 13 of the eco-friendly cars in use in the USA, but they are all run by councils.
It"s a parking dream...
It"s a parking dream come true for motorists in Leicester who are taking advantage of the city centre"s current lack of traffic wardens. Neither the council nor local police is taking responsibility, and drivers are so confident they won"t get a ticket that many aren"t paying at meters and are stopping on double yellow lines.
It"s a small car, but...
It"s a small car, but the latest versions of the MINI are already proving a big hit. More than 1,600 orders have been taken for the firm"s Seven, Park Lane and Checkmate special editions, which have just gone on sale - that"s double bosses" expectations. Prices range from í‚á£12,565 to í‚á£17,635.
It"s exactly one year...
It"s exactly one year since the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving was banned - and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) believes hands-free kits should be outlawed, too. Its experts estimate that drivers making any kind of call are four times more likely to have an accident.
It"s only October, but...
It"s only October, but Saab has already smashed its previous best annual sales record! More than 20,500 cars have found homes in the UK in 2005 - that"s 200 more than the firm sold in the whole of last year. Total figures are now expected to exceed 27,000, which will make Saab the UK"s fastest-growing premium brand.
Jenson Button’s...
Jenson Button’s hopes of F1 success have been boosted with the launch of a multi-million-pound wind tunnel at his Honda team’s HQ in Brackley, Northants. Opened last week by Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling, the facility (image) can recreate track speeds of up to 180mph. It will help technicians in their quest for straight-line pace.
Kevin Murphy from ExCel...
Kevin Murphy from ExCel said: "We have sorted out different dates with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, and are delighted we will be able to hold two great events at our venue that summer."
Land Rover has announced...
Land Rover has announced prices for the new Range Rover Sport V8 diesel. Due on sale in January, the big oil-burner starts at ÷£53,120 in luxurious HSE guise.
Learners shouldn"t be...
Learners shouldn"t be surprised if their driving instructor turns up in a Chevrolet. The manufacturer is offering L-test tutors up to 25 per cent off the price of selected Matiz, Kalos, Lacetti and Tacuma models. The deal is also available to the novices whose instructors took up the offer. Log on to www.chevrolet.co.uk for details.
Lexus is offering buyers...
Lexus is offering buyers more for their money with the new RX300 Limited Edition. At í‚á£31,995, it adds í‚á£1,500 to the standard model but has plenty of extra kit including leather trim, heated front seats, metallic Brechin Slate or Stafford Blue paint and 18-inch alloys.
Lotus has launched the...
Lotus has launched the 2006 Elise and Exige. Both cars have several revisions and added kit, but prices remain unchanged at í‚á£27,995 for the base Elise and í‚á£29,995 for the Exige. LED tail-lights are now standard, as are new lightweight aluminium pedals and central locking. Updated Sport and Touring packs are also offered for both models.
Makers and suppliers...
Makers and suppliers are already racing to sell the different sensor systems, but a team at Berkshire"s Transport Research Laboratory has assessed all the technologies for the first time. The scientists shortlisted 15 of the most promising set-ups for simulator tests. Drowsy drivers are blamed for up to 300 UK road deaths annually.
Measuring 1,951mm long...
Measuring 1,951mm long, it"s more than 300mm larger than the H1. Details about the newcomer are scarce, but under the big Commander"s bonnet is a 4.0-litre turbodiesel engine, while the car is capable of carrying up to 15 passengers. The rugged, go-anywhere image is complemented by modern headlights, a leather interior and alloy wheels with massive tyres.
Mercedes aims to tighten...
Mercedes aims to tighten its grip on the UK market by boosting the number of cars available with its advanced 4-Matic four-wheel drive.
Mercedes has revealed...
Mercedes has revealed prices of the M-Class in America. The SUV will be ,750 for the ML350 and ,500 for the ML500 - that"s í‚á£21,245 and í‚á£25,920 respectively. However, UK chiefs have said the car will cost 10 per cent more than the out-going model when it arrives in September. That means prices of around í‚á£37,000 and í‚á£50,000.
Mitsubishi is offering...
Mitsubishi is offering a string of money-off deals to mark the new year. Shogun 4x4s are being cut by í‚á£2,000, meaning the entry-level 2.5-litre TD Classic is now í‚á£16,999. The firm has also extend-ed its 50:50 finance and three-year free servicing offers until March.
Mobility North will...
Mobility North will showcase adapted cars, products, equipment and services designed to promote independent living.
Mums can choose from...
Mums can choose from such diverse cars as an E-Type, Caterham Super 7 or 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom; just three from a long list. Cost is í‚á£15, which includes entry to the museum and her choice of car, and mum gets a luxury box of chocolates, too. More details from the Museum on 01963 440804, or visit the website, link above.
Music festival goers...
Music festival goers are the target for a road safety campaign about the dangers of driving while influenced by drugs. The THINK! initiative details how illegal substances affect motorists when behind the wheel. More than 1.5 million people will attend festivals this year. Visit www.drugdrive.com for information.
Nissan has simplified...
Nissan has simplified the range of its long-running Terrano II off-roader. Ten years after the car"s launch, six models are now available, starting with the 2.7 TD SE three-door - which is down í‚á£1,000 in price to í‚á£17,995. New features include larger wheels, tinted glass and metallic paint.
Not content with the...
Not content with the bespoke alloys already available for his fleet of cars, rap star Sean Combs has launched his own range. Combs, also known as P Diddy, is marketing the rims through his Sean John clothing label. He appeared at the New York Motor Show to promote them. Prices range from í‚á£370 to í‚á£1,500 for each wheel.
Not only were the cars...
Not only were the cars changing on the Rolls-Royce Motor Show stand, but so was the boss of the company itself. The stunning 100EX cabriolet was replaced by a Phantom after three days, while Tony Gott has resigned as chairman of the manufacturer. His position has been taken by ex-BMW man Karl-Heinz Kalbfell.
Not to be outdone, Citroen...
Not to be outdone, Citroen is offering New Year bargains across its range. Bag a Xsara Picasso MPV from only í‚á£9,995 thanks to a huge í‚á£3,500 saving, or the new C2 VTS for í‚á£10,500 - a í‚á£1,500 discount. Be quick, though; the deals are for cars ordered before the end of January and registered by 31 March.
Old tyres may be heading...
Old tyres may be heading back to the road -
One in 10 motorists...
One in 10 motorists is still ignoring the ban on driving and using a hand-held mobile phone, says a new survey by insurer Green Flag. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has called on the police to take much stronger action against the law-breakers, so that motorists get the message.
Only 2,600 are to be...
Only 2,600 are to be produced, with 500 coming to the UK. The limited edition, made following Briton Andy Priaulx"s winning season, has a hand-built 2.0-litre engine with 173bhp. The 140mph saloon gets sports seats and uprated suspension, and will cost from í‚á£24,975 when it goes on sale in April next year.
Only one in five new...
Only one in five new cars sold in Britain is built here, and the proportion is expected to fall even further - thanks to the Koreans. Sales in the UK of models made by south-east Asian firms Hyundai, Kia and GM Daewoo will top 100,000 for the first time in 2004. Experts say they will import even more cars during 2005.
Parts supplier Valeo...
Parts supplier Valeo is working on the set-up for luxury motors. Meanwhile, Parfum d"Images, the company behind the Citroen C4"s sweet-smelling air-con, has revealed that two more models are to benefit. It"s a secret which they are, but the Peugeot 207 and new Citroen Picasso are the most likely.
Paul Quéveau...
Paul Quéveau, boss of retractable metal roof firm Heuliez, said: "In 2006, soft-tops and hard-tops split the worldwide convertible market 50-50. However, in the next five to 10 years, 20 per cent will be soft-tops and 80 per cent hard-tops." BMW is the latest maker to switch, opting for a metal roof over a fabric hood on its 3-Series cabrio.
"People trying to nip...
"People trying to nip across ahead of the black and white lines don"t benefit from the crossing"s protection," a spokesman claimed. "Using it cuts the chances of being knocked down by 50 per cent."
Peugeot’s 107...
Peugeot’s 107 Urban is moving – up in price. For an additional ÷£550, buyers can opt for the Urban Move, which offers a host of extra kit over its regular Urban sister. Features include a rev counter, air-con, a choice of Raven Black or Zircon Grey metallic paint, unique seat trim and silver finishing on the speedo, air vents and door pulls.
Prepare to be blown...
Prepare to be blown away by Saab"s new Airflow TiD range. Although cheaper than standard TiDs, all models are fitted with larger alloys, a boot spoiler and an upgraded entertainment system. Prices range from í‚á£19,995 for the 120bhp 9-3 Linear Sport Airflow up to í‚á£22,495 for the flagship 150bhp Vector Sport Airflow.
Prices and details have...
Prices and details have been announced for the Ford S-MAX unveiled at the Swiss expo. When it arrives in showrooms at the end of the summer, the seven-seater will start at ÷£16,767 for the 2.0-litre petrol LX, rising to ÷£21,767 for the 2.5 Titanium. Engines are 2.0 and 2.5-litre petrols, plus 1.8 and 2.0 Duratorq diesel units.
Prices start at ?14,995...
Prices start at ?14,995 for the 1.6-litre Mondeo Edge, which replaces the departing LX trim. Zetec prices start at ?16,695, while the luxury Ghia range opens at ?18,445. All cars get added kit including ESP stability control, driver"s knee airbag, Isofix child seat mountings and Easyfuel - which prevents drivers putting diesel in a petrol car, or vice versa.
Production of Bentley...
Production of Bentley cars is going to take place away from Crewe for the first time ever. The Continental GT and Flying Spur will be built at VW"s Dresden factory - the home of the Phaeton - starting later this year. The Cheshire facility is already close to working flat-out, and top brass are expecting more sales.
Product liability lawyers...
Product liability lawyers have put paid to plans for a three-wheeler from VW, it has been revealed.
Red is the new amber...
Red is the new amber. A shocking 30 per cent of 1,000 motorists polled by traffic exhibition organiser Traffex admitted regularly jumping red lights, despite this being a major cause of accidents. Meanwhile, a study by public safety research organisation Cochrane Injuries Group found safety cameras act as a strong deterrent against the crime.
Revenge can be sweet...
Revenge can be sweet. In issue 821 we told you how Patrick Bisset, from Egremont, Cumbria, protested outside a dealership that couldn"t fix his car. Have you taken equally drastic action against a firm dealing with your vehicle? E-mail mat_watson@dennis.co.uk or call 020 7907 6204 with your story.
Revisions to the 2005...
Revisions to the 2005 Mitsubishi Shogun see price reductions of up to í‚á£2,200 on selected models. A new flagship SWB car joins the line-up, and the LWB has a choice of gearboxes for the first time. Prices start at í‚á£21,499. Meanwhile, the Shogun Sport gets a new front end.
Roll up... BSA has just...
Roll up... BSA has just added two wheels to its range: the 334 Tao and 367 Bullet. The five-spoke Tao (main image) comes in two sizes – 15-inch at ÷£61 or 17-inch at ÷£77 – while the eight-spoke Bullet costs ÷£77 for the 17-inch and ÷£86 for the 18-inch rim.
Rush and Extreme 4 are...
Rush and Extreme 4 are the names of two special-edition Renault Clios. The former is based on the Authentique and comes with a height-adjustable driver"s seat, while the latter is a sporty value-for-money option that gets body-coloured bumpers. Prices start at í‚á£7,995 and í‚á£8,795 respectively.
R you ready for the...
R you ready for the fastest MPV ever? Mercedes is unveiling an AMG version of its R-Class at March"s Geneva Motor Show. The R63 AMG uses the same storming 6.3-litre V8 as the CLK 63 AMG and CLS 63 AMG, which will also be at the Swiss event. With a huge 510bhp on tap, the unit should be able to propel the 4WD six-seater from 0-60mph in less than six seconds.
SE cars now get a boot...
SE cars now get a boot spoiler and central front armrest as standard. Also included is sat-nav, with a seven-inch pop-up colour screen on top of the dash.
Second-hand sales are...
Second-hand sales are down compared to last year. But used dealers needn’t panic. Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show the first nine months of the year saw 1,998 fewer registrations than the same period in 2005. Yet business failures among small dealers are growing, as car supermarkets take an increasing share of sales.
Selling second-hand...
Selling second-hand child car seats should be banned, according to the car insurance arm of Sainsbury"s Bank. Research has revealed that at least 255,000 used seats were bought last year, yet it is impossible for parents to know if their purchase has been damaged in a crash. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has backed the call.
Seven of the world"s...
Seven of the world"s top car and oil companies are to collaborate on a five-year, multi-million pound project to reduce road traffic fatalities in developing countries. Shell, Ford, GM, Honda, Michelin, Renault and Toyota will contribute to the initiative, which is supported by the Red Cross charities.
Shropshire Police are...
Shropshire Police are giving drivers free microfibre cloths to wipe away the tell-tale marks left on windcreens by suction-mounted sat-nav systems. Officers on the West Mercia force claim that thieves often target cars with dirty glass, hoping the expensive kit will have been hidden in the glovebox.
Signed off and ready...
Signed off and ready to go! That"s the news on the replacement for the Jaguar XK, spy shots of which the magazine published in last week"s issue. Insiders have revealed that the new car will be slightly larger than the current model, but will be much roomier inside. Expect a showroom debut late next year.
Six digital video cameras...
Six digital video cameras on each vehicle will record every street; three of them are visible in our picture. A highly accurate GPS system will pinpoint the position
Skoda used the Motor...
Skoda used the Motor Show to announce prices for its new Octavia. The entry-level 1.4-litre Classic will cost í‚á£10,750, the Ambiente starts at í‚á£13,540, while the flagship 2.0-litre TDI PD Elegance is í‚á£17,420. It was also revealed that an RS version will arrive in 2006, using a 2.0-litre FSI engine with at least 200bhp.
Smart owners looking...
Smart owners looking to supersize their ForTwo can now buy an extended boot which doubles load space. The í‚á£1,050 Clever End is a plastic box that bolts on to the back of the car. It incorporates a larger tailgate linked to the central locking system, plus extended rear lamps. Visit www.clever-end.com for more info.
Sources close to the...
Sources close to the project have told us the original 3.2-litre V6 engine"s capacity is rising to 3.4 litres. The unit will develop around 260bhp and be mated to VW"s 4MOTION all-wheel drive for uncompromising grip. Three and five-door bodystyles will be offered, and the R34 is likely to cost about í‚á£27,000 when it arrives next year.
SOUTH KOREA: A man from...
SOUTH KOREA: A man from Seoul has passed his driving theory test at the 272nd attempt. Seo SangMoon spent five years and a million Korean Won (í‚á£525) on the exam.
Standard Lamborghini...
Standard Lamborghini Gallardo not fast enough for you? Well, check out the GT3R. Developed by German tuning company Reiter Engineering, it"s powered by the same 5.0-litre V10 engine as the "base" supercar, but offers more than 500bhp and has a stripped-out cabin. The newcomer should reach 200mph, and will cost around í‚á£150,000.
Survey results also...
Survey results also revealed some of the most basic checks and advice from car makers, government and safety bodies falling on deaf ears. For example, a staggering 72 per cent of drivers have not read the Highway Code since passing their driving test while 15 per cent do not bother to test tyre pressures between services, a crucial safety check.
Taking pride of place...
Taking pride of place on the Hyundai stand in
That"s the conclusion...
That"s the conclusion of÷ the Berkshire-based Transport Research Laboratory.
That"s the view from...
That"s the view from a think-tank of senior car industry managers, who believe hi-tech trip rec-orders are the best way to help drivers avoid huge jams as more traffic pours on to the network.
The 5 is based on the...
The 5 is based on the MX-Flexa concept revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March of this year. On sale early in 2005, it will be available with a choice of three engines - 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol units, and a 2.0-litre diesel. Using the same platform as the Ford Focus C-MAX, the newcomer is expected to cost from í‚á£14,000.
The annual Plymouth-Dakar...
The annual Plymouth-Dakar rally for cars costing less than í‚á£100 is facing a fresh challenge for 2005. New laws recently introduced in the Gambia - where the event ends - ban right-hand-drive vehicles for unspecified safety reasons, so competitors will have to use left-hand-drive models instead.
The average motorist...
The average motorist can expect three driving bans during their career behind the wheel, according to a top statistician. Professor Rose Baker of Salford University, Manchester, reckons there are now enough speed cameras to make it inevitable that people will get, on average, a ban every 15 years.
The brand new Isuzu...
The brand new Isuzu Rodeo pick-up truck has ridden in - and that means discounts off its predecessor, the TF. The final few 2.5 TD versions are available with í‚á£3,700 off the list price, with the Crew Cab now costing í‚á£11,295 plus VAT. In addition, the Single Cab is í‚á£10,295, again plus VAT.
The cabin remains unchanged...
The cabin remains unchanged from the hatch, while that car"s 107bhp 1.5-litre and 147bhp 1.5-litre turbo petrol engines are also carried over. The latter gives the CZC a 0-60mph time of 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 126mph. Prices will be revealed nearer to its June launch, but the range should start at ÷£14,000.
The car dealer from...
The car dealer from Only Fools and Horses, played by John Challis (left), will star with wife Marlene (Sue Holderness) in a new show. It"s to be called Green, Green Grass, and the pilot episode will be filmed next year. The pair move from Peckham to the country, with son Tyler in tow. Del Boy and his Reliant van won"t appear...
The Corvette C6 is to...
The Corvette C6 is to go on sale in Britain in October, and will be the first of a new range of Chevrolets and Cadillacs destined for Europe, all of which will be sold through their own dealerships. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to start from
The cover for low-mileage...
The cover for low-mileage drivers relies on a GPS system to measure usage. Insurer Norwich Union fitted 100,000 black boxes last year, and believes 2007 will see a rise in popularity.
The crew from South...
The crew from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service was named World Champion at the New Zealand event, in which firefighters demonstrate their skills at cutting casualties from simulated traffic accidents, beating 30 other teams. Chief fire officer Brian Fraser praised the team, saying: "They have given theirown time and effort to reach this standard."
The days of cracked...
The days of cracked door mirrors could be numbered with the introduction of reflective plastic. Until recently, inventors had found it hard to make the material to high enough standards, but the hurdle has now been overcome. Auto Express has learned an unnamed car maker will introduce it later this year
The duo are reportedly...
The duo are reportedly attempting to shoehorn the satellite-based Google Earth software into the dash. VW wants its own version to give birdseye images of terrain, and help drivers recognise the landscape more easily. It has also enlisted specialist 3D computer chip manufacturer Nvidia in the project.
The entry-level E variant...
The entry-level E variant costs ÷£19,850, and comes with four-wheel drive, air-con, 17-inch alloys and a Descent Control System. The range-topping SE auto is priced at ÷£27,695 and includes everything from DVD sat-nav to a Bluetooth phone kit. Two engine options are available - a 2.4-litre petrol or 2.0-litre diesel - when the SUV goes on sale in July.
The feature was created...
The feature was created by Chrysler stylist Dave Spykerman. He simply decided to add a little circular well to the centre console of an interior he was designing, which could hold a drinks can upright.
The HVS is the same...
The HVS is the same size as Mazda"s MX-5, and uses a new 1.5-litre engine - made possible by the end of an agreement with parent firm Toyota which limited Daihatsu to using units with capacities no bigger than 1.3 litres. It"s mated to three electric motors, and the maker claims 2.0-litre performance with 1.0-litre economy and 70mpg as a result.
The initiative means...
The initiative means car firms are now responsible for disposing of their own vehicles. Minister for Science and Innovation, Malcolm Wicks, said: "There is an 85 per cent target to recover scrap cars, and free take-back will help us achieve it." Go to www.recycleyourcar.co.uk for info on nearest ATF (Authorised Treatment Facility) and other services.
The kit has Europe-wide...
The kit has Europe-wide mapping and a 6.5-inch colour screen, and the offer runs until 30 September.
The limited-run car...
The limited-run car comes with a unique paint finish, and has matching mats, air vent surrounds and instrument cluster.
The Medinose has two...
The Medinose has two special probes that users put up their nose. They emit a special light to stop nasal membranes releasing histamine - the chemical which causes irritation and sneezing. Sufferers need to use it for five minutes three times a day. It"s available at www.anhealth.co.uk priced ÷£79.95.
The Motor Show is open...
The Motor Show is open to the public from Friday 28 May to Sunday 6 June. Advanced ticket sales have closed, but you can pay on the door (í‚á£16 adults/í‚á£9 concs). Entry to the Motropolis Live Action Arena is í‚á£7.50, with the behind-the-scenes Paddock Tour - sponsored by Auto Express - priced at í‚á£3.
The new model is available...
The new model is available with a choice of three engines: a 125bhp 1.8-litre or 147bhp 2.2-litre petrol powerplant, as well as a 2.0-litre DTi diesel putting out 99bhp.
The offer is open even...
The offer is open even to those who only have the rescue group"s most basic cover. If the vehicle can"t be repaired at the roadside, the AA patrol will take the member to the nearest Europcar centre to collect one of the brightly coloured Smarts. And if a bigger car is needed, an upgrade option is available for a small fee.
The organisation has...
The organisation has set up a competition to design a carbon awareness campaign for road users. Entrants will be asked to devise ideas relating to low carbon fuels, responsible vehicle use, eco-friendly driving, clean business transport and low-polluting vehicles. Visit www.lowcvp.org.uk for details.
The pair will produce...
The pair will produce the Saab 9-6X, which will be based on the Legacy Outback platform and is expected to rival the Mitsubishi Outlander. The first collaboration between the car makers produced the America-only 9-2X.
The RAC has been bought...
The RAC has been bought by Norwich Union owner Aviva for í‚á£1.1billion. And the new owner has already revealed plans to cut 900 head office jobs and lose 800 administration staff at the automotive breakdown giant. While some services will be moved outside the UK, front-line staff involved in such areas as patrol call centres will remain in Britain.
The range has no VXR...
The range has no VXR model, but bosses claim the new 250bhp 2.8-litre V6 turbo should do nicely.
There"s a fortune at...
There"s a fortune at stake for the three venues vying to host the 2006 British Motor Show. According to Heart of England Tourism, spending linked to the Birmingham NEC event this year netted the region í‚á£60million. As we reported last week, London exhibition centres ExCeL and Earls Court are up against the NEC this time around.
The return of round...
The return of round headlamps is evident, as is the ground-hugging front spoiler. The rear wing on this particular car is for race use only; the road-legal version won"t be quite as aggressive. Few official details are available at the moment, but prices and performance are expected to be similar to those of the current model.
The Save-U system was...
The Save-U system was developed by firms including VW and Daimler-Chrysler. Pedestrian-recognition technology uses radar sensors plus cameras to either alert the driver or take its own action. This means applying the brakes or activating safety features. Designers admit they will have to shrink the sensors before fitting them into cars.
The scheme also offers...
The scheme also offers a 104-point mechanical inspection, service history check and history data examination. The great-value deal is available at all UK franchised garages - but you"ll have to be quick to take advantage, as it runs only until 17 April. RS, S and A8 models are excluded from the incentive.
The stunning H2R has...
The stunning H2R has set nine new world records in 24 hours. It"s powered by a special version of the 6.0-litre engine from the German manufacturer"s flagship 7-Series.
The summer sales have...
The summer sales have started at Mitsubishi. Until 30 September, the firm has slashed up to í‚á£2,500 off its Shogun 4x4. This means the flagship LWB Warrior is í‚á£29,995. The seven-seater comes with air-con, 18-inch alloys and sat-nav. Meanwhile, the Equippe variant is í‚á£2,200 cheaper at í‚á£22,999. It also has air-con and alloy rims.
The system"s huge 30GB...
The system"s huge 30GB hard drive has more maps, including 29 European countries, and gives faster calculation of dir÷ections.
The water-based product...
The water-based product claims to provide a durable and long-lasting finish. The maker has a database of more than 7,000 colours, and all you have to do is send a sample of your leather and it will tailor each solution to your needs. Each kit comprises alcohol cleaner, colourant, finish, a spray gun and sponges.
The world"s oldest motorist...
The world"s oldest motorist has died, aged 113, five years after he stopped getting behind the wheel. Fred Hale of New York passed away in his sleep, and once said he quit driving in 1999 because he found slower motorists annoying! He was the official Guinness record-holder because he had his licence renewed when he was 104.
They may be fashionable...
They may be fashionable, but driving in flip-flops could be fatal. A quarter of road users admit to wearing open-toed footwear at the wheel - yet 75 per cent of those said it impeded car control. The main problem is soles catching under pedals. Insurer Norwich Union, which conducted the survey, said: "Motorists should think carefully about their footwear."
This eco-friendly Greenline...
This eco-friendly Greenline version of the Fabia Estate is heading for the UK.
This is the brand-new...
This is the brand-new GT concept from Citroen and it"s set to make its debut at the Paris Motor Show.
This is the very first...
This is the very first teaser shot of Teslaò€™s new Model S saloon! And from what we can see, the body looks just as futuristic as the carò€™s electric powertrain.
This petrol model has...
This petrol model has 160bhp and sprints from 0-60mph in 9.9 seconds. The top-spec 3.2 JTS V6 Q4 Lusso costs from ÷£29,350.
To celebrate its 90th...
To celebrate its 90th anniversary, Maserati has produced a limited-edition Spyder. The model, which is on display at this week"s Paris Motor Show, shares its wheels and side sills with the GranSport Coup탩. Aerodynamic headrests, a commemorative logo on the front wings and bespoke blue paintwork complete the special features.
Traffic congestion is...
Traffic congestion is costing the country up to í‚á£15billion a year - and company bosses don"t think it"s going to get better in the short term. A report by the British Chambers of Commerce said only two per cent of members thought that the Government"s transport proposals would prove effective.
Two motor shows within...
Two motor shows within six weeks? That"s what Londoners will be treated to next summer. The Canary Wharf Motorexpo takes place in the second week of June, and its organisers don"t plan to change dates, even though the 2006 British Motor Show is scheduled for 20-30 July. Both events will be staged in the capital"s Docklands area.
Two out of 79 - that"s...
Two out of 79 - that"s how many local authorities responded to the Council for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE) about its concerns over unnecessary road furniture. Only West Sussex and Herts signed up to the "Street Clutter Challenge". A CPRE spokesman said: "There"s a willingness to keep towns uncluttered - the countryside deserves the same."
Unlicensed minicab operators...
Unlicensed minicab operators are transporting schoolchildren thanks to a legal loophole. The GMB union says operators dodge rules by claiming their vehicles are used as part of a private contract - and are not available to the public - so don"t require a licence. Proper taxis have to undergo strict testing.
Unveiled at Detroit...
Unveiled at Detroit, this 7.4-metre-long van is a one-off special based on a Tourneo-spec model, and offers space for seven plus the driver.
USA: David Green and...
USA: David Green and Bernice Neff, who split up after stealing a kiss on the move and crashing their car, have been reunited 56 years later in a Columbia old folks" home.
USA: Driver William...
USA: Driver William Putman lost a finger in a smash - but it was reattached after firemen froze it in a tub of ice cream from the Los Angeles gas station where the crash happened.
US giant Chrysler has...
US giant Chrysler has unveiled new entry-level models of the Grand Cherokee and PT Cruiser, badged Sport. Featuring unique 16-inch alloys, electric seats and front foglights, the Grand Cherokee costs í‚á£24,995. Meanwhile, the PT Cruiser is í‚á£13,995 and comes with a special paint finish and roof spoiler.
Vauxhall has released...
Vauxhall has released A Century in Motion 1903-2003, a book which chronicles the manufacturer"s journey from its conception in the south London suburb of Vauxhall in 1903 to the present day. Priced í‚á£14.99, the title can be ordered from www.vauxhallheritage.com or by telephoning Vauxhall Heritage Services on 0121 522 5566.
Volkswagen"s Golf MkV...
Volkswagen"s Golf MkV will be the best-selling private vehicle this year, according to Virgin Cars. The Internet-based retailer made the prediction according to the number of requests it has received for 04-registered vehicles, which are due to be launched in March. The next-generation Ford Focus and Vauxhall"s Vectra are second and third.
Volvo had an eye-catching...
Volvo had an eye-catching way of getting its message across at the Tokyo Motor Show. Bosses turned the windows of a V70 estate into TV screens, and played video clips of their cars in action. The vehicle was badged "Clean All Its Life", and several clips related to how components can be recycled.
We brought you the exterior...
We brought you the exterior pictures last week: now here"s the inside line on Renault"s facelifted Laguna. The heavily revised cabin features improved materials and new seats, while upmarket models get a dash-mounted display with a sat-nav system similar to Nissan"s Birdview. It is operated by a multi-media selector in the console.
Were you fooled? BMW...
Were you fooled? BMW ran a newspaper advert on 1 April for a car without a steering wheel. But anyone who saw our Inside Story in issue 851 would have known this was the firm"s latest April Fool"s gag. A spokesman said: "Despite when it appeared, more than 4,000 people called us to ask about it. Others also visited the phoney website listed in the ad."
We"ve been hunting for...
We"ve been hunting for official pictures of VW"s Fox city car. Officially, it"s the Lupo replacement - and it"s just debuted at Germany"s Leipzig Motor Show - but at 3.82m long, it"s only 8cm shorter than the Polo. Two petrol engines - a 54bhp 1.2-litre and 73bhp 1.4 - and a 73bhp 1.4 TDI diesel will power the car.
What do you do with...
What do you do with 900 old tyres? Simple - build a house! A team has constructed a building with walls made from rubber filled with earth near Kinghorn in Fife. Legislation will soon make it illegal to dispose of tyres as landfill, so it"s hoped the idea will help provide affordable housing in rural areas.
While the overall dimensions...
While the overall dimensions look to have remained similar, a higher bonnet line will ensure the newcomer meets the latest pedestrian impact regulations. The existing C-Class"s twin headlamps make way for more conservative units, but an S-Class-style rising waistline adds character. The car debuts at next March"s Geneva Motor Show.
While the prototype...
While the prototype is still heavily disguised, it’s clear that the designers have penned a far more angular body for the next-generation Avensis carrier. The British-built newcomer won’t go on sale in showrooms here until 2009, although it’s likely to make its official debut late this year.
You can spend a fortune...
You can spend a fortune on alarms and immobilisers for your car. But what about the wheels? The new Blocky security bolts from ADL are a cost-effective way to beat thieves.
You"ve heard of cars...
You"ve heard of cars getting a facelift, but now a fuel has been given a revamp. BP says the formula of its Ultimate petrol and diesel has been modified to boost its engine-cleaning credentials by 300 per cent. The firm"s experts claim drivers should also get more miles to the gallon and a cut in emissions from oil-burners.