Autonovelties

10 Years Ago:

10 Years Ago:

A clever gadget will...

A clever gadget will enable Fiat owners to download telemetry from their car – just like an F1 driver.

A fourth variant of...

A fourth variant of VolkswagenтЂ™s unshakable Golf will be available from November. The MkVI version of the hugely successful all-rounder already comes as a three and five-door hatch, Golf Plus, and now as an even roomier estate.

A legend is returning!...

A legend is returning! Volkswagen"s amazing IROC concept car will be called the Scirocco when it goes on sale in two years" time, resurrecting a badge not seen since 1993.

A luxury sports car...

A luxury sports car looks set to be built in Blackpool under the guidance of William Riley, a descendent of the firm"s founders. He also hopes to revive the MG logo on two high-performance motors based on the X-Power SV. Production is slated to start by the end of the year, with an annual target of 1,800 by 2010. The factory could even use ex-TVR workers, as it was also based in Blackpool.

And it lagged behind...

And it lagged behind other superminis tested, with the Kia Rio, Mitsubishi Colt and Daihatsu Sirion all gaining four stars. The strike-through score indicates a high risk of life-threatening injury in at least one aspect of the car"s performance. The Chevy"s weakness was chest protection in a side impact.

A new survey from insurers...

A new survey from insurers elephant.co.uk shows that over a third of all drivers have used their phone while driving, with those in the North East of England the worst offenders - more than half of all drivers there admit to it.

A spokesman for the...

A spokesman for the breakdown organisation said if all tax was put on fuel, it would shake up the current system and make today"s cheats pay up by charging them according to how much they drove. "A simplified tax system, which charges in a far more visible way, also needs to be implemented if we are to attempt to change the way people"s journeys are made," he added.

At first glance, this...

At first glance, this test model might look like a standard Avant, but compare the ride height with that of the A6 behind the prototype and it"s clear this is no ordinary load-lugger. Following in the tracks of the previous Allroad, the newcomer will have variable-height suspension, offering better ground clearance to go with the uprated quattro all-wheel-drive system.

At least, that"s the...

At least, that"s the view of specialist insurance provider Swinton, which has seen an 18 per cent rise in quotes for imported Japanese and US cars over the last 12 months.

Auto Express has revealed...

Auto Express has revealed before that four-wheel-drive models will be part of the firm"s line-up by the end of this year - and the mud-plugger, based on the 156, is right on schedule.

Based on the XJ, the...

Based on the XJ, the aluminium Daimler is powered by a 400bhp 4.2-litre supercharged V8 engine, producing a 0-60mph time of five seconds and a 155mph top speed. The car is set apart from the Jag by the Daimler fluted radiator grille, plus chrome trim on the door mirrors and rear light clusters.

BMW has been busy with...

BMW has been busy with the X3, too. The compact SUV benefits from some subtle revisions inside, with upgraded materials and fresh switchgear.

BMW is having a hybrid...

BMW is having a hybrid party in Frankfurt!

Buying a motor is stressful...

Buying a motor is stressful enough, but imagine if you learned that you had paid for a stolen car. Now you can eliminate this worry by buying a TextCheck Access Card.

Check out HyundaiтЂ™s...

Check out HyundaiтЂ™s Geneva show star. This is the ix-onic тЂ“ an environmentally minded SUV.

Check out the new self-inflating...

Check out the new self-inflating traffic cone that you can store in your car! Designed as a road safety aid for drivers who break down at night, the Emergency Traffic Cone is more portable than a traditional warning triangle and can even be wedged into the corner of a glovebox when not in use.

Councillors defended...

Councillors defended the move by pointing to the number of Christ-mas party and dinner bookings that have already been made at hotels and restaurants at this time of year. They have called for such venues to include a campaign leaflet with their booking forms.

Developed as part of...

Developed as part of baby accessories firm Aprica"s latest range the shiny safety chair is designed for children up to age eight.

Developed with Italian...

Developed with Italian stylist Bertone, the CARousel is a skateboard-style chassis on to which different bodyshells could be bolted. Called a working demonstration tool for engineers rather than a concept, it represents the latest interior design thinking. It"s also a development of the Hy-Wire prototype revealed at Detroit in 2002.

EVEN if electric cars...

EVEN if electric cars do emit more CO2 than their petrol equivalents, manufacturers arenтЂ™t being deterred from pushing the technology further!

FANCY a Lamborghini...

FANCY a Lamborghini in your garage, but canтЂ™t quite meet the ТЈ140,000 asking price?

Feel that you’ve...

Feel that you’ve been unfairly charged with a motoring offence? Then you need the Fight a Motoring Ticket kit from Lawpack.

Finally! The wraps are...

Finally! The wraps are off Renault"s all-new Mégane...

Finding the right part...

Finding the right part for your car just got easier. A new service from classifieds giant Auto Trader uses your registration number to make sure you get the precise part to match your car.

First unveiled at this...

First unveiled at this year"s Frankfurt Motor Show, Toyota showed off its IQ concept which is due to be launched at the end of 2008 and hit showrooms early next year.

For both drivers, it...

For both drivers, it marks a return to the team that was once called Jordan. They were paired together in 1997 – Schumacher’s first year in the sport, Fisichella’s second. “At the moment, it’s just one test to see how we get on working together,” said Ralf. “I think I can help the team with its development programme, but we will see.” Fisichella added: “I was invited to test with the Force India F1 Team at Jerez, and I was very happy to accept it.”

For the first time ever...

For the first time ever, a car maker is fitting aircraft-style black boxes to its production vehicles.

Four-door coupés...

Four-door coupés are all the rage, but Skoda is trying to set a new trend for saloon-hatchbacks!

Fresh from the launch...

Fresh from the launch of the ESF Concept, Mercedes has shown that not just safety, but style is on their agenda too! The firm has revealed the special-edition SLK 2LOOK.

Green trips up again

Green trips up again

Heading the list in...

Heading the list in 2003 is Ford"s Escort MkIV. There were nearly 900,000 examples of the hatchback still registered. Fords make up the top five on the list, with the sixth-placed Corsa MkI the highest-ranked Vauxhall model. Meanwhile, the number of UK-registered vehicles last year was 29,007,820, a rise of half a million compared to the previous 12 months.

He came up with the...

He came up with the idea after visiting a motorcycle show called the Bulldog Bash, held annually near Stratford-upon-Avon in Warks. Malcolm told us: "I tried to build a trike from a different angle. I did it in my garden shed and I reckon it took 1,000 hours. I get a few stares from people when I"m out in it." Power comes from a rear-mounted Renault 5 engine. Under the polished aluminium bodyshell is a tubular spaceframe chassis, and there is even a roll-hoop behind the driver"s seat in case of accidents.

Here’s a machine...

Here’s a machine that could convince car fans to get on their bike – it’s a four-wheeled motorcycle!

Here"s your chance to...

Here"s your chance to prove yourself on the race track, but only computer game wizards need apply! Nissan has teamed up with Sony and its PlayStation 3 console to give two hopefuls the opportunity to race a 350Z in a 24-hour endurance event in Dubai.

Hex keys can easily...

Hex keys can easily be lost in a toolbox тЂ“ so Laser has come up with a novel way of keeping them together. The latest set not only folds down into a neat multi-tool-sized package, but it also includes a ratchet wrench.

Hills Numberplates has...

Hills Numberplates has made the plates to comply with the latest DVLA standard, which means it has to take more than 3 minutes to get them off a vehicle. Under independent testing not only did the new plates not budge in 3 minutes, but when they were eventually removed they were completely irreparable.

Honda third driver Anthony...

Honda third driver Anthony Davidson is near to sealing a deal for a seat alongside Takuma Sato in the Super Aguri squad.

HyundaiтЂ™s Sonata has...

HyundaiтЂ™s Sonata has debuted in LA, but donтЂ™t get too used to the newcomer, the version in the picture is only going on sale in America and Asia, Europe is getting its own completely re-styled model.

Imagine never having...

Imagine never having to pump up your rubber again! That’s the idea of the new Self Inflating Tyre (SIT).

In a reversal to the...

In a reversal to the bad news earlier this year - the cutbacks and closures at Vauxhall, TVR and Peugeot plants in the UK - Ford has announced a чЈ100 million investment to produce a new premium 3.2-litre six-cylinder power unit at Bridgend.

Instead, the model...

Instead, the model, out later this year, will be called the Land Rover LR3. However, the number 3 will also grace UK cars - it will be known as Discovery 3. A spokesman said: "The Range Rover was the main product when we came to the States, so buyers think of it as a brand on its own, and regard Discovery as a Range Rover model name.

Interested in car-related...

Interested in car-related gadgets? Well, you’ll love iGizmo – the new free digital magazine from Auto Express’s publisher, Dennis. Delivered every fortnight to your E-mail inbox, it is packed with the latest news, reviews and videos from the fast-changing and exciting world of consumer technology.

Internet fever is helping...

Internet fever is helping to boost the resale values of a select band

In the process, the...

In the process, the defending title holder not only stretched his lead at the top of the standings to a mighty 31 points ahead of main rival Marcus Gronholm, but also equalled Colin McRae"s tally of 25 WRC wins.

It can be hard for MPVs...

It can be hard for MPVs to get noticed amongst the glamour of a motor show, but Hyundai’s latest people carrier concept was drawing plenty of attention at the Geneva expo.

It follows the case...

It follows the case of Kevin McGuire, who parked perfectly legally in Bury, Greater Manchester. However, an NCP parking employee doctored a digital photo"s date to make it look like he"d broken the law. Mark Littlewood of civil rights group Liberty thinks it raises questions about what other camera images could be changed: "Tampering with evidence to secure a conviction is a serious offence, and one that should not only lead to a disciplinary action but also a criminal action," he said.

It might not look much...

It might not look much like a bella bambino now тЂ“ but this is the Fiat 500тЂ™s baby brother.

It’s not often...

It’s not often that a toy car draws a crowd at a major motor show, but that’s exactly what happened when model maker Herpa unveiled a wacky new Trabant at Frankfurt!

It"s returned from the...

It"s returned from the dead! Three years after being axed, Caterham has reintroduced the best-selling Superlight R300 with a new engine.

It"s the car that will...

It"s the car that will make Toyota cool тЂ“ so says company boss Akio Toyoda. As he took the wraps off the FT-86 тЂ“ the eagerly awaited replacement for the Celica тЂ“ at the Tokyo Motor Show, he claimed sporty models such as the rear-driven coupé will change his firmтЂ™s image.

It"s the cat that"s...

It"s the cat that"s got the cream! One of the stars of the Jaguar stand at the New York Motor Show was the sumptuous XJ Portfolio.

It"s the news E-Class...

It"s the news E-Class fans have been waiting for! MercedesтЂ™ E Class Coupé is ready to hit the road... And our exclusive images show the CLK replacement will be near identical to the concept that inspired it тЂ“ the Fascination, seen at the Paris Motor Show. The minimal disguise canтЂ™t hide the angular design, with sharp creases down both sides plus a rounder outline than the current carтЂ™s.

ItтЂ™s almost the end...

ItтЂ™s almost the end of the year, so weтЂ™d like to know your most memorable motoring moments of 2009.

It was meant to be the...

It was meant to be the supercar secret of the show, but news of Audi’s diesel powered R8 V12 TDI has leaked.

Keen to avoid a repeat...

Keen to avoid a repeat of the current model"s lacklustre sales, Vauxhall has made the new car far more stylish, and will offer it with seven seats, four-wheel drive and even a hybrid drivetrain. As the image in the currentч  mag shows, with a streamlined coupé-like shape, large alloy wheels and panoramic glass roof, it will be a distinctive executive express.

Kia is launching a new...

Kia is launching a new used car scheme later this summer which promises to make buying second-hand vehicles as easy and enjoyable as possible.

Kia"s design department...

Kia"s design department is on a roll! This sleek saloon, codenamed VG, is the latest model to emerge from the Korean manufacturer, and it could well be its best-looking model to date.

Korean specialist Kumho...

Korean specialist Kumho has developed new road and track rubber, called the Ecsta MX-C, which produces clouds of red smoke when spun. The amazing invention has been wowing US motorsport audiences, and is now available here.

Lambo made a gift of...

Lambo made a gift of the all-wheel-drive machine to mark the force"s 152nd anniversary. And as you can see, this is no daft publicity stunt. It has a siren and flashing lights, two-tone paint and is packed with the latest police kit.

Lexus is heading into...

Lexus is heading into unchartered waters. This first official sketch, released ahead of the car"s debut in Frankfurt next month, gives a first indication of how the Japanese firm"s premium compact concept will shape up.

Mazda: Three years"...

Mazda: Three years" zero per cent finance available on 3 until end of September. Buyers can also save н‚бЈ150 on 1.4 S, while Sakata special edition has н‚бЈ700 discount.

Mitsubishi has become...

Mitsubishi has become the latest company to join the cross-over craze! This official sketch reveals the production version of the hatchback/SUV mix "cX" concept which was first unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2007.

More than five million...

More than five million Transits have been sold since its launch in 1965, with nearly 1.5 million put to work in the UK. Designed and built in Britain, the latest model is the most visually striking yet. Buyers will have the choice of seven all-new engines, including six diesels - developed in conjunction with PSA Peugeot Citroen. There"s a more comfortable interior, improved controls and extra safety kit, including Electronic Stability Protection, anti-lock brakes and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.

New car sales in the...

New car sales in the UK rose for the first time in 2006 last month, to the delight of showroom bosses – but their joy may be short-lived, warn industry experts. Compared to the same period 12 months ago, the market increased 1.1 per cent to 190,002 units for May, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

New research reveals...

New research reveals that British drivers are ignoring warnings about the dangers of drink driving. Nearly two thirds (60 per cent) of British motorists believe that they are perfectly safe to drink and drive, according to a new study commissioned by Privilege Insurance.

Now thereтЂ™s even more...

Now thereтЂ™s even more choice for iPod owners from Alpine, as the company has introduced two new head units which can be used with the MP3 player. The iDA-X100 and iDA-X200 join the iDA-X300 (Issue 1,018) and can be made Bluetooth compatible by adding the KCE-300BT accessory. Voice dialling and phonebook transfer are completed using the technology, and music stored on your mobile can be streamed to the unit. As well as offering hands-free calling, the units have AlpineтЂ™s IMPRINT technology, which allows users to match the sound to their carтЂ™s acoustics.

No, your eyes aren’t...

No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you. This really is a Vauxhall Tigra with a canvas roof. So has the two-seater’s folding hard-top been scrapped in favour of fabric?

One of the smallest...

One of the smallest cars on the road is about to make a big impact on the UK market. A new version of SmartтЂ™s ForTwo emits 88g/km of CO2 тЂ“ the lowest output of any production model on sale.

Only 60 of the special...

Only 60 of the special Arnage R-based cars will be sold - and a mere 19 have been earmarked for the UK. New 19-inch alloys, 60-year Union Flag badges and the Flying B mascot - last seen on the radiator of a production Bentley in the Seventies - mark out the rare model.

Only available in lurid...

Only available in lurid orange, silver, green or black, the stripped-out RS is designed for drivers who want maximum thrills and head-turning ability on both the road and the track.

On sale this month are...

On sale this month are the 3 Tamura and 6 Tamura, which are based on TS-trimmed variants and get sporty bodykits with new front and rear bumpers.

Owners of the tiny machines...

Owners of the tiny machines are causing havoc across Britain, and local councils have received hundreds of complaints about them. Now, tearaway teens who ride illegally could soon find the brakes being put on their activities.

PRICE of Chevrolet servicing...

PRICE of Chevrolet servicing is expected to come down. US brand is cutting the cost of spares to independent Daewoo and Chevy dealers across UK. Previously, only franchised garages benefited from deal.

Prices were gathered...

Prices were gathered from franchised dealers and high street motor accessory shops, and in eight out of 10 cases the main agents proved to be more expensive. The biggest difference was on a new wheel bearing for a Honda CR-V SUV. Although a replacement was available for only н‚бЈ21.88 on the high street, a Honda main agent wanted a staggering н‚бЈ135.13 for a similar part - that"s н‚бЈ113.25 more!

Production of the stylish...

Production of the stylish family car has now begun at the blue oval"s Genk factory in Belgium. Incredibly, the four-door saloon, five-door hatch and load-lugging estate variants are all built on the same busy production line - alongside the Ford S-MAX people carrier and Galaxy MPV.

Reigning DTM German...

Reigning DTM German touring car championship title holder Audi has revealed its plans for 2009. As per last year, the

Renault"s electric dreams...

Renault"s electric dreams are becoming a reality! Just as Auto Express predicted, when we drove all of Renault"s electric concepts last month, the Twizy, Zoe and Kangoo concepts have all been confirmed for production.

Research carried out...

Research carried out by the Departч­ment for Transport found that charges could lead to more accidents, because drivers would use minor roads to avoid them. Another risk is that motorists will travel before dawn and after dusk to cut their commuting costs.

Revealed by Auto Express...

Revealed by Auto Express in issue 859, and set to debut at next autumn"s Paris Motor Show, it should offer at least 180bhp from its 1.6-litre turbo engine.

Revealed in concept...

Revealed in concept form at the Seoul Motor Show, it"s called the L4X and around the same size as Mercedes" S-Class. It gets a similarly vast, bold grille and imposing styling to the big Mercedes, too. The newcomer has bi-xenon headlights and LED tail-lamps.

Revisions to the city...

Revisions to the city runabout include a lower, more aerodynamic roofline and shorter overhangs front and rear. The supermini, which is available to buy now, comes in either GSI or CDX trim. Standard equipment includes power-steering, driver"s airbag and anti-lock brakes for the GSI, while the range-topping CDX gets keyless entry, a leather steering wheel and rear spoiler. The Amica is only offered with a 1.1-litre petrol powerplant, but cars in CDX trim do come with the choice of either an automatic or manual gearbox.

RussiaтЂ™s largest car...

RussiaтЂ™s largest car manufacturer AvtoVAZ, donated a complete section of its show stand today to show off its new Lada C-Cross concept in Moscow.

SAIC"s rival Chinese...

SAIC"s rival Chinese firm Nanjing owns the rights to the MG badge and looks set to win the race to return to the UK.

Say hello to the latest...

Say hello to the latest addition to the MiTo family! This racy looking machine is a warm hatch model that"s set to sit to give buyers a taste of the forthcoming GTA model.

Should no proof be forthcoming...

Should no proof be forthcoming, the motors are disposed of, and

Since June, the DVLA...

Since June, the DVLA has sent out the four-sided ownership document instead of the V5. On receipt, owners are supposed to destroy the old one - but the breakdown firm believes criminals aren"t playing ball. "They use the old V5 to create a new identity for a car they have stolen," an AA spokesman explained.

Smith, founder of the...

Smith, founder of the safespeed.org.uk claims the Government has delayed reporting how many speeding tickets have been handed out to motorists. No official national figures have been published since 2003 and the information is now more than two years out of date.

Starting on April 1st...

Starting on April 1st, and running for 3 months, the scheme allows car hunters to take a car for 72 hours to find out if it really works in their day-to-day driving. Included in the offer are the Corsa, Meriva, Tigra, Astra, Astra Sport Hatch, Zafira and Vectra.

Stolen cars are rare...

Stolen cars are rare on the used market, but you’re more likely than ever to buy a second-hand model with outstanding finance secured against it – and the problem is only going to become worse, claim experts.

Stumped at what to buy...

Stumped at what to buy the car nut in your family this Christmas? Join us as we name this winters must have motoring accesories! Our list will be updated daily, so don"t forget to check back regularly.

Take a look at a real...

Take a look at a real showstopper! Kia has released this picture of its new coupé, which reveals its slick profile for the first time.

That"s 20bhp more than...

That"s 20bhp more than the current model.

The add-on lamps work...

The add-on lamps work in two modes: one for cornering and the other for driving in foggy conditions. The 90mm unit - which uses powerful H7 halogen bulbs normally found in headlights - is activated by a sensor while cornering at less than 20mph or when you operate the indicators at higher speeds. The lamp illuminates up to 70 degrees left or right. Unlike its predecessor, the new system is used only on dipped headlights - the original worked solely with full beam. The latest version also features swivelling rather than fixed bulbs, so the two lamps can also be employed as foglights. When the unit is in this mode, however, cornering vision is limited to 45 degrees rather than 70.

The bike is back! As...

The bike is back! As the cost of owning a car rises, increasing numbers of motorists are swapping four wheels for two, according to research by

The booming city car...

The booming city car market is about to get even more competitive, with Ford confirming the new Ka will undercut its main rival, the Fiat 500. Starting at ?7,995 for the entry-level 1.2-litre Studio, the city car costs ?105 less than the equivalent 500 and only ?350 more than the outgoing Ka.

The calming influence...

The calming influence of a familiar motor makes it first choice for many brides. The traditional Roller (image) appears further down the list compiled by insurer Churchill, along with unusual vehicles such as a milk float, vintage bus or tractor. Five per cent of brides walked to church.

The Campaign Against...

The Campaign Against Drinking and Driving (CADD) gives support to drink-drive victims. A spokeswoman warned: "Casualty figures will spiral because people will have access to alcohol socially for 24 hours a day. It is when they have to get behind the wheel that there"s a danger."

The car has been designed...

The car has been designed as a support vehicle for the Monte Carlo Rally - which the original Mini Cooper won in 1964. It features a spare wheel mounted on the roof, red drop-down side boxes containing tools and a clever sliding boot floor to aid stowage. Like other Traveller concepts seen in Frankfurt, Tokyo and Detroit, the Monte Carlo version has been produced to generate interest in the forthcoming estate car.

The car was revealed...

The car was revealed as a concept at last month"s Frankfurt Motor Show, and first versions are tipped to go on sale early next year. Powered by a 200bhp 2.0-litre engine, the Clio lacks the outright punch of VW"s Golf GTI and the Vauxhall Astra VXR, but Renault says the new RS"s blend of light weight and outright grip means it should deliver a seven second 0-60mph time and 150mph top speed.

The Cobra spits again!...

The Cobra spits again! Troubled sports car maker AC has bounced back to build a new version of its Sixties roadster.

The device, made by...

The device, made by specialist sound system giant Harman/Kardon, is called the Drive+Play, and it comes in three parts. There"s a "brain" that"s hidden under the dashboard which connects the car"s stereo to the iPod, a display unit and a compact control stick.

The engineer, who currently...

The engineer, who currently remains anonymous, reckons several miles of safety barriers protecting lighting poles in the central reservation are illegal. His letter stated: "It would appear that no consideration has been given to the revised clearances for safety fences, despite [the rules] being introduced in April 1999 and the contract for the scheme being awarded 18 months later."

The exciting new 4x4...

The exciting new 4x4 from Jeep will be unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January. A daring development of the 2002 concept, it promises to rival the new Toyota RAV4 and the next Land Rover Freelander. The model is the smallest off-roader the US firm has ever built, and is based on the same platform as the forthcoming Dodge Caliber.

The flagship 245bhp...

The flagship 245bhp 3.0-litre flat-six unit offers different power modes for drivers to select on the move. Hit the dash-mounted buttons and the engine will shift between "Intelligent", "Sport" or "Sport Sharp" - economy, normal and sport settings.

The GM-owned manufacturer...

The GM-owned manufacturer has launched a performance version of the Lacetti hatch, and hinted that a hot estate could arrive later this year.

The good news is that...

The good news is that British Tesla fans wonтЂ™t have far to travel, as the US firmтЂ™s new garage (right) is based in LondonтЂ™s swanky Knightsbridge district, just a short stroll from the famous Harrods department store. To mark the occasion, Tesla gave its new European-ready Roadster and uprated Roadster Sport a public airing.

The good news is there...

The good news is there are still some available Stateside, and legendary tuner Roush is bringing them to Britain.

The initiative is expected...

The initiative is expected to be rolled out across dealers in time for September"s new 55 registration and, although voluntary, all the makers have signed up to it. Cars will be graded according to C02 emissions and categorised into six coloured bands - similar to the system used for fridges. This information will be displayed in the windscreen, along with data such as likely annual fuel costs.

The latest craze in...

The latest craze in slot racing will really put you in a spin! Scalextric’s new set features a clever 360-degree spinning action that allows you to drift cars into corners as you try to outrun your opponent.

The latest innovation...

The latest innovation to help emergency workers make their way through traffic is the Rumbler – a device that relies on the power of sound to shake the road up to 200 feet ahead of the vehicle.

The line-up now includes...

The line-up now includes the Fever 5R, XLR, Vertigo and Mag-num, which Mak claims mix mo­tor­sport inspiration with Italian style.

The most expensive Rolls-Royce...

The most expensive Rolls-Royce ever built has been sold to Chinese property developer, maker has revealed. The чЈ1.1million car went to an undisclosed Beijing company.

The much-anticipated...

The much-anticipated model - identified by the "D" on the bootlid - should achieve at least 35mpg, thanks in part to its lightweight aluminium chassis. Powered by a modified version of the 204bhp 2.7-litre twin-turbo V6 from the S-Type, the XJ D will be no slouch. Fitted with the S"s automatic gearbox and boasting around 435Nm of torque, expect the car to hit 0-60mph in less than eight seconds. Impressive mid-range acceleration and a top speed in excess of 140mph are also on the cards.

The name of Alfa RomeoтЂ™s...

The name of Alfa RomeoтЂ™s replacement for the 147 has been revealed as the Giulietta тЂ“ but the plot thickens about why there was an embarrassing 11th-hour switch from Milano.

The new-look Mercedes...

The new-look Mercedes E-Class cabrio has been exposed, and this is the best picture yet of what the finished article will look like.

The newcomer is expected...

The newcomer is expected to be built on a unique platform, and will also introduce the Czech firm"s fresh family face. While it will be slightly bigger than its rival - parent company VW"s Golf Plus - the Roomster will still only offer five seats.

The newcomer will hit...

The newcomer will hit UK showrooms in September and will mark the swansong for the current model, as there"s an all-new Impreza lined up to arrive towards the end of 2007.

The news came at the...

The news came at the Detroit Motor Show from Nick Reilly, former boss at Vauxhall and now president and chief executive of GM Daewoo in South Korea. That"s where the Antara is being built, ahead of its autumn launch in the UK.

The original minivan...

The original minivan is back in the guise of the Chrysler Grand Voyager and it looks beefier than ever. The American giant claims that this car features 30 new or improved features inside such as the Swivel ‘n Go seating system which allows the second row seats to rotate 180 degrees. This means if you’ve kids in both rows they can swivel to face each other, there’s also a removable table that can be placed in between these rows so that passengers can chat, play games or even work when on the move. There’s also the nifty looking sliding front console that can be moved between the fron and rear passenger.

The Peugeot 206 CC rival...

The Peugeot 206 CC rival is inspired by the firm"s CZ2 concept, which wowed the crowds at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show. The production car will debut at 2005"s Swiss event in March.

The Pocket Socket is...

The Pocket Socket is a brilч­liant gadget to store in your car’s glovebox in case of an emergency. Priced at чЈ9.99, it will revive your mobile if you don’t have a 12-volt charger or are using the cigar lighter socket to power something else. The ingenious device runs on AA batteries and provides 90 minutes’ talk time and 480 minutes on standby while charging the phone.

The quicker vicar, from...

The quicker vicar, from St Boniface Church in St Budeaux, Plymouth, Devon, has been on many events before, but this is the first time he"s tried out his own handiwork - a Sixties-style Gemini kit car with a 1.6-litre Ford engine.

There’s a new...

There’s a new sponsor for BTCC – and it’s set to keep all the competitors" cars in top condition!

There"s a Big Cat on...

There"s a Big Cat on the prowl in Death Valley. This is the XF-R тЂ“ and, as you can see, the BMW M5 rival will really look the part when it goes on sale in 2010.

There"s now even more...

There"s now even more kit on offer with ToyotaтЂ™s Yaris (above). The range-topping SR has been upgraded to include a combined sat-nav and audio system as standard. The touchscreen device is built in, but can be removed тЂ“ so is fully portable тЂ“ and includes hands-free Bluetooth connectivity and an MP3 player connection.

The results are in!...

The results are in! Eight more new cars have been put throught the gruelling Euro NCAP crash tests, and the signs are good for staying safe on the road.

ThereтЂ™s a new тЂњMountainтЂќ...

ThereтЂ™s a new тЂњMountainтЂќ to climb for fans of American 4x4 specialist Jeep тЂ“ and a blast from the past too, with this special тЂњIslanderтЂќ edition.

These are the pictures...

These are the pictures that prove Saab is getting serious about the development of its new SUV. So say hello to the new 9-4X - which made its debut at the Detroit Auto Show as a biopower badged concept car.

The square grille and...

The square grille and headlamps are the real giveaway. Just as the all-new Skoda Fabia goes on sale in Britain, this unique rally-bred version of the MkI supermini has been unveiled.

The text describes the...

The text describes the new face of the 307 range. It states that sporty models will get a four-bar chrome grille, while mainstream variants feature five black bars on the nose. Set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the model is intended to strengthen the 307"s appeal in response to competition from Ford"s Focus, the Volkswagen Golf and Vauxhall"s Astra.

The theory is if you...

The theory is if you avoid the little white lines on the road you can"t be prosecuted. But police say the potentially deadly manoeuvre does not work - the lens will snap your plate whichever side of the road you"re on. What"s more, offenders may face further charges for dangerous driving.

The Transport Research...

The Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) surveyed 80,000 vehicles on the M3, M4 and M5, plus the A14 and A4, using special laser equipment (right). The Berkshire-based group found many HGVs were 4.9 metres tall, meaning they"re dangerously close to the standard height for motorway and road bridges, which is 5.03 metres.

The Volkswagen Passat...

The Volkswagen Passat will take part in the Urban Challenge, a 60-mile contest for driverless vehicles which involves them merging with traffic, negotiating roundabouts, avoiding other motorists and abiding by road laws. Computers control the steering, throttle and brakes, and scientists are now adding lasers, GPS sat-nav and video cameras so the car can ‘see’ the road. Two years ago, VW entered a Touareg SUV in a similar contest in the desert, but the Passat will have a tougher job.

The wraps are almost...

The wraps are almost off of BMW"s all-new 5-Series hatchback! Called the Gran Turismo, the new model has been spied testing here in Germany almost completely undisguised for the first time.

The wraps are almost...

The wraps are almost off of BMW"s all-new 5-Series hatchback! Called the Gran Turismo, the new model has been spied testing here in Germany almost completely undisguised for the first time.

This is the Saturn Vue...

This is the Saturn Vue, a US variant of Vauxhall"s Antara, which has all the sporty trimmings of a performance version of the forthcoming SUV.

This navigation software...

This navigation software gives mapping of the UK, but European charts are available to download online, along with various points of interest, such as fixed speed camera locations. Route destinations can be entered by postcode, while directions are displayed in either bird"s-eye view or 3D, and are supplemented by voice commands.

To assemble a permanent...

To assemble a permanent structure would take months, but 12 men from Manchester-based company Another Level can build you a mobile version with spaces for eight to 800 vehicles in just a matter of days.

To Brits it seems unlikely...

To Brits it seems unlikely - but they want the X to become the top saloon with the lucrative US tuning market.

Tokyo show video: Japan"s...

Tokyo show video: Japan"s supercar battle

Toyota is set to get...

Toyota is set to get pulses racing at this yearтЂ™s British Motor Show. The Japanese firm has commissioned a wild one-off version of its Aygo to appear on its stand.

Toyota"s tough Hilux...

Toyota"s tough Hilux pick-up has been given a mid-life facelift! The 2009 model gets a new grille and bumper with a wider air intake, while fresh 15 and 17-inch alloys complete the external modifications.

Unlike VolkswagenтЂ™s...

Unlike VolkswagenтЂ™s next baby, the real-life Chico made his debut on TVтЂ™s The X Factor. And an advertisement promoting a mooted congestion charging zone nearly did, too тЂ“ until it was banned.

Vauxhall has come under...

Vauxhall has come under fire for an on-going fault that can cause its Corsa to burst into flames

Vauxhall has gone back...

Vauxhall has gone back to black! Auto Express revealed plans for the new griffin badge in Issue 1,002, but this is how it will look when it graces the imminent Insignia.

We compared the cost...

We compared the cost of rubber on both the entry-level and top-of-the-range versions of the UK"s most popular models with that of the previous generations.

WeтЂ™ve heard of the...

WeтЂ™ve heard of the credit crunch тЂ“ now hereтЂ™s the price crunch! Lexus is offering its revamped IS saloon for up to ТЈ1,000 less than the outgoing model. Even better news is that the new BMW 3-Series rival, which benefits from a number of upgrades inside and out, packs even more equipment despite the reduced tag.

We weren’t supposed...

We weren’t supposed to see it until Friday, but pictures of Vauxhall’s top secret new Insignia have leaked!

What"s more, five of...

What"s more, five of the worst six models are made by French firms. This is one of many fascinating facts revealed in the UK"s biggest car satisfaction survey, based on the experiences of 50,000 of you. Citroen, Peugeot and Fiat owners have the toughest time, according to our study.

When a gadget runs out...

When a gadget runs out of power it can be very frustrating тЂ“ but if you have this latest Travel PowerCharger from Ring Automotive, you

When we tried Furniture...

When we tried Furniture ClinicтЂ™s Leather Ultra Clean in our Issue 882 test, it didnтЂ™t do too well. Now, itтЂ™s back тЂ“ and has been much improved.

Whereas previous hybrid...

Whereas previous hybrid cars have concentrated on winning over city-bound drivers, the Accord is one for the open road. Powered by the 240bhp V6 already offered in American Accords, the model promises all the performance of a luxury saloon, but with the economy of a much more efficient four-cylinder car.

Whether a dealer visit...

Whether a dealer visit fills you with dread or happiness, one thing"s for sure - you all have an opinion. In this week"s Driver Power 2004 coverage, we focus on the people we trust to repair our cars. We asked you to rate your agent for helpfulness, cleanliness, workmanship and technical knowledge to establish the effectiveness of their aftersales service.

While left-hand-drive...

While left-hand-drive versions will benefit from the introduction of the acclaimed 2.7-litre V6 diesel engine used by the Jaguar S-Type, customers in the UK will miss out. A Peugeot spokesman told Auto Express: "As 607 volumes in this country are so small, the company has decided not to develop the V6 diesel unit for right-hand-drive models."

Who said hybrids had...

Who said hybrids had to be four-door family cars?

With nine months to...

With nine months to go until the all-new Fiat 500 makes its debut, this exclusive 2007 calendar must surely be the best way to count down the days to the launch of the cute city car.

With obvious Ford design...

With obvious Ford design cues around the bumper and grille, it"s a preview of the next-generation Escape 4x4. Officially, there are no plans to launch the car here in the UK in the next few years. But insiders claim it"s a possibility, although the model would have to be carefully positioned to avoid stealing sales from the Freelander - made by Ford-owned Land Rover.

Working on a car at...

Working on a car at night normally means holding a torch with one hand тЂ“ limiting what you can do under the bonnet. But not with the neat new Silva L4 head torch.