The third member of Vauxhall’s ‘X’ family has been revealed - with the new Grandland X SUV.
Frankfurt Motor Show
Renault reveals more new Megane details
Renault has announced further details of the all-new Megane line-up following its global debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The new Megane is the fifth Renault to be built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance's new Common Module Family (CMF) vehicle architecture, after the Espace, Kadjar, Talisman saloon and Talisman estate.
A sporty and dynamic Megane GT-Line will feature visible exterior and interior enhancements. At the front there is a wider lower air intake with a honeycomb-pattern mesh, flanked by lateral scoops. An elliptical chrome exhaust tailpipe and a profiled diffuser hint at the car's sporty character and there are dark metal 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels and door mirror housings to match the finish on the front air scoops and rear diffuser. GT-Line badges adorn the front wings and rear.
The front seats feature additional lateral support and integrated headrests, blue top stitching and a chequered logo. The three upholstery options, in fabric or Alcantara, have blue or black stripes, and there are other hints of blue in the trim strips, all reflecting the Iron Blue body colour. The GT-Line also receives a bespoke steering wheel offering a firmer grip, and model badging on the dashboard.
Depending on the country, the new Megane will be available with 10 fuel-efficient, low-emission powertrains in line with Renault's downsizing strategy. All but one of them is turbocharged and two are exclusively reserved for the GT.
There are four Energy TCe turbocharged petrol options with capacities and power outputs of 1.2 litres/100hp, 1.2 litres/130hp (manual and EDC) and 1.6 litres/205hp (GT). The turbodiesel alternatives are 1.5-litre dCi 90 and 110hp units, the latter with manual or EDC transmission, and 1.6-litre dCi units developing 130 or 165hp. The CO2 of the manual dCi 110 is 86g/km, while at the other end of the scale the TCe 205 GT will be capable of 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of over 145mph.
In 2017 a Hybrid Assist diesel-electric powertrain will be added to the range, based on the Energy dCi 110 unit. Renault is targeting a CO2 figure of 76g/km, with fuel economy in the NEDC combined cycle of more than 97mpg. The Hybrid Assist is provided by a 48-volt battery which is topped up by energy recovery under deceleration and braking. The diesel engine remains in operation at all times.
UK pricing, RHD specification details and engine line-up for the new Megane range will be announced nearer to the start of UK sales in summer 2016.
Suzuki Baleno set for Frankfurt debut
The all-new Suzuki Baleno is to make its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
The debut of the full production version follows on from the iK-2 Concept seen at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.
The Baleno is to feature the first application of a newly developed 1.0-litre BOOSTERJET direct injection turbocharged petrol engine.
Suzuki says the Baleno's layout has been optimised and various technologies used to reduce weight in order to meet the rigorous size and weight requirements specific to compact cars.
Further details will be revealed at the Suzuki press conference at the Frankfurt Motor show on Tuesday 15 September.
The new Baleno is scheduled to go on sale in the UK early next Summer.
Facelifted DS 4 and Crossback now on sale
Following a global public premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the facelifted DS 4 and DS 4 Crossback are now on sale in the UK.
The Crossback version is aimed at customers looking for 'urban and extra-urban adventure', adding styling features including wheel arch trims, a unique front end and rear spoiler, all finished in black, plus grey roof bars. Black door mirrors, door sills and carpet mats and a 30mm increase in ride height combine to complete the more rugged look.
Sporting a new front end treatment, new DS branding, new personalisation options, new trim levels and the latest Euro 6 engines, both models are said to offer more choice for customers wishing to adapt their cars to suit their personality and lifestyle.
The new DS 4 also becomes the first DS - and the first vehicle in the PSA Group - to offer Apple CarPlay technology.
Six engines options are offered, including the -cylinder turbo petrol PureTech 130, while a new high-performance THP 210 petrol engine is exclusively available in the hatchback only. Three Euro 6 BlueHDi diesel engines are also specified, including a BlueHDi 180 which is said to offer up to 50Nm more torque than its main competitors.
The new DS 4 is priced from £19,495 OTR, while the Crossback range starts at £21,745.
All-new Kia Sportage set for Frankfurt debut
Kia has revealed exterior images of the all-new Sportage, ahead of a global debut in Frankfurt.
Entering its fourth-generation, the new Sportage features a 'bold, progressive design'. Kia says the new model is inspired by the smooth and sharp shapes found on some of the most iconic modern fighter jets, and that the Sportage creates 'visual harmony out of the tension between sharp, defined feature lines and smooth surfacing'.
The face of the new Sportage represents the biggest change to the car's design, with the headlamps no longer integrated with the grille for the new model, instead sweeping back along the outer edges of the more sharply-detailed bonnet and bolder wheel arches. The Sportage's lower, wider 'tiger-nose' grille adds more volume, resulting in what Kia describes as a more imposing appearance and a more stable-looking stance.
The new model retains the swept-back silhouette of the outgoing Sportage, with a roofline that tapers slightly towards the rear of the car, longer front overhangs, shorter rear overhangs and longer wheelbase. At the rear, the horizontal forms and surface volume 'emphasise the car's width', while slim combination lamps are joined by a strip that runs the width of the rear, inspired by the 2013 Kia Provo concept car. Turn signals and reversing lights are separated, relocated lower down to add more 'visual weight and a greater sense of stability' to the lower half of the car.
The Frankfurt International Motor Show runs from 17-27 September 2015.
Renault reveals new Talisman Estate
Renault has taken the wraps off the Talisman Estate following the unveiling of its Saloon sibling.
The new large estate car delivers the same technological features as the saloon, along with extra load-carrying ability. Renault says it features the same 'assertive styling' with a sleek silhouette and dynamic proportions.
The French manufactures also claim the Talisman Estate has an 'unprecedented level of driving enjoyment' thanks to the combination of the 4Control chassis and active damping. Powering the estate will be a choice of two petrol engines and three diesel units. The interior includes comfort features such as integrated ventilation in the front seats, while load space comes in at almost 1,700 litres.
The Renault Talisman Estate will make its first public appearance at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show and will go on sale in Europe during the first half of 2016, however there are no current plans for the car to be produced in Right Hand Drive or sold in the UK.
Skoda adds frugal Superb GreenLine model
Skoda has added new Superb Hatch and Estate models to its GreenLine range.
The Superb GreenLine takes fuel economy and emissions 'to a new level' with a predicted combined consumption figure of 76.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 96g/km for the Hatch and 97g/km for the Estate. Skoda says these provide the new Superb GreenLine with a potential range of more than 1,100 miles on just one tank of fuel - enough to drive from Milton Keynes to Barcelona.
The most fuel-efficient and cleanest Superb to date is powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder diesel engine that develops 120PS and incorporates a host of advanced fuel-saving technologies and engineering features. As with all other Superb models, the GreenLine is equipped with start-stop ignition and brake energy recovery as standard. In addition, both Superb GreenLine models feature longer gear ratios, SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) and 16-inch reduced rolling resistance tyres.
To meet European emission standards, the new model utilises two exhaust gas treatment units: an oxidation catalytic converter and a diesel particulate filter. Nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced through the Superb GreenLine's SCR system, using the reducing agent AdBlue. This synthetically manufactured solution, 32.5 per cent high-purity urea in demineralised water, treats the diesel exhaust gases, reducing nitrogen oxide and saving fuel.
To further improve efficiency the chassis sits 15mm lower than the standard Superb, while both the Hatchback and Estate models incorporate tailgate and roof spoilers to efficiently channel air around the rear of the car. As a result of these subtle additions and revisions, both models have lower drag coefficients than the standard models (0.263 Hatch, 0.275 Estate).
The new Superb GreenLine will be unveiled to the public at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show with further details, including UK specification and prices, to be announced closer to the launch date later this year.
Audi e-tron quattro concept set for Frankfurt debut
Audi has confirmed a new, all-electric SUV will be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
With a potential range of more than 310 miles, it builds on the experience gained developing the forthcoming R8 e-tron, the brand's first large-series electric car, which enters production in 2018.
The new e-tron quattro concept is designed from the ground up as an electric car and follows Audi's 'Aerosthetics' concept - combining technical measures for reducing aerodynamic drag with creative design solutions. Movable aerodynamic elements at the front, on the sides and at the rear improve the air flow around the car. The aerodynamically optimised underbody is completely closed. With a cd value of 0.25, Audi says the concept sets a new record in the SUV segment, helping contribute to the long range of more than 310 miles.
The study is based on the second-generation modular longitudinal platform, which provides 'considerable scope' for the drive system and package. Its length is between that of the Audi Q5 and the Q7, with its SUV body and flat, Coupe-like cabin giving the concept a dynamic appearance, while a spacious interior offers room for four people.
The large lithium-ion battery is positioned between the axles and below the passenger compartment. This installation position provides for a low centre of gravity and a balanced axle load distribution, giving the car 'better driving dynamics and driving safety than other vehicles in the segment' according to the German brand. Three electric motors - one on the front axle and two on the rear - effectively create an 'electrified quattro', making the e-tron quattro concept both efficient and responsive.
Audi's first ever purely electric SUV is destined for series production following its Frankfurt debut in concept form. The Motor Show opens its doors on 17 September.
All-new Kia Sportage set for Frankfurt debut
Kia has confirmed its all-new Sportage will be unveiled at 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show.
Featuring new, 'dynamic styling' Kia also describes the interior of the 2015 Sportage as its most refined high-quality cabin yet.
The fourth-generation Sportage features a bold, progressive design which 'exudes power and agility from every angle' says the South Korean manufacturer, adding that the compact SUV's styling 'creates visual harmony out of the tension between bold, precise feature lines and dramatically-sculptured bodywork'.
Inside, the SUV combines simple, modern style and rich material quality with the styling led by the brand's European design centre - located in Frankfurt.
Kia will pull the covers off the new Sportage on 15 September.
Crossover, Concept Car, SUV, News
Mazda to unveil new crossover concept in Frankfurt
The Mazda Koeru crossover SUV concept is set to make its debut at the 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show.
Koeru - Japanese for 'exceed' or 'go beyond' - was the name chosen for Mazda's latest entry into the growing crossover SUV market, which features the company's trademark KODO - Soul of Motion design - expressing "the power and vitality of a predator along with a unique level of refined dignity", according to Mazda.
Mazda will also display its new-generation model line-up in Frankfurt with highlights including an all-new MX-5 complete with accessories as well as several SKYACTIV powertrains.
Mazda's Frankfurt Motor Show press conference takes place on 15 September and the doors open to the public from 17-27 September.
Production-ready Infiniti Q30 revealed
The Infiniti Q30 has been revealed in its final production form ahead of its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
The all-new Q30 is a compact 5-door hatchback developed, says Infiniti, for customers seeking urban individuality.
The public premiere of the car comes exactly two years after its precursor, the Q30 Concept, was introduced at the 2013 Frankfurt show and the distinctive design of that concept has been tweaked only slightly for production.
"Design is a key pillar of the Infiniti brand - and the new Q30 Active Compact perfectly embodies this approach," said Infiniti President Roland Krueger. "The Q30 Active Compact delivers the distinctive design, the driving dynamics and the individuality that our customers expect of an Infiniti vehicle. With our first ever entry in the compact car segment, we continue the product offensive and provide additional options for our discerning customers."
The Q30 underwent final testing and development in Europe. It will be built in Sunderland in the UK which will then become the fourth country on three continents to build Infiniti vehicles.
Press days for the Frankfurt Motor Show are on September 15-16 and the doors open to the public from September 17-27.
Renault reveals new Talisman saloon
Renault has unveiled its new D-segment saloon - the Talisman.
The French brand says the Talisman features a combination of 'assertive styling with sleek, elegant lines' as well as a spacious cabin with 'ample room' for all occupants while also featuring an 'impressively big boot'.
The Talisman, together with the Estate version - which features the same qualities as the saloon - is set to play an active role in the renewal and upgrading of Renault's high-end range. Renault says the Talisman is the only D-segment saloon car to combine 4Control, four-wheel steering with active damping, allowing it to deliver unique road manners, plus safe, dynamic, agile handling and 'outstanding' ride comfort. A shortcut button allows the driver to switch instantly between Sport and Comfort modes.
With full-LED front lights, a new C-shape lighting signature and permanently-lit rear lights, a configurable digital instrument panel features a colour head-up display, which joins ambience lighting co-ordinated by the selected Multi-Sense setting.
Power comes from a choice of three diesel engines (Energy dCi 110, 130 and dCi 160 (EDC) mated to a six-speed transmission, or the latter with the choice of a seven-speed EDC - with CO2 emissions as low as 95g/km. Two petrol engines (the Energy TCe 150, Energy TCe 200) are mated to the seven-speed EDC transmission and offer 'unrivalled comfort, stability and agility' says the French brand.
Renault has confirmed the Talisman - along with the Estate version - will be revealed at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, which opens its gates to the public on 17th September. While available for sale in Europe at the end of the year there are currently no plans for the Talisman to be sold in the UK or Ireland.
New Jaguar F-Pace breaks cover
The new Jaguar F-PACE appeared in public for the first time on Saturday 4 July as it supported Team Sky on Stage One of the Tour de France in Utrecht.
The F-Pace shed its hard camouflage for the first time - in front of an estimated live audience of one million people, with over two billion more estimated to have watched on television or online around the world - instead sporting a specially created wrap, hinting at the final design of the vehicle, which will be fully unveiled later this year.
Five Team Sky riders - Ian Stannard, Luke Rowe, Peter Kennaugh, Leopold Konig and Chris Froome - were supported by the F-Pace during the Grand Depart, providing a real world test of Jaguar's first performance crossover.
A special bike rack, designed with an innovative telescopic clamp by Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations, was developed specifically for the stage and carried two Team Sky Pinarello Bolide Time Trial bikes.
Team Sky Head of Technical Operations & Commercial, Carsten Jeppesen, said: "The atmosphere in Utrecht was incredible. The Netherlands has a huge passion for cycling and right from the moment we arrived at the start line, you could feel the excitement. The appearance of Jaguar's F-Pace prototype definitely added to the hype today - you could see it made a big impact with the crowds."
Jaguar has produced a short film capturing all the F-Pace (#FPACE) action as the gruelling Tour began in the Netherlands: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nC3woUBN6Dg
The world premiere of the Jaguar F-PACE will be at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September and will go on sale from 2016.