Audi has confirmed a new, all-electric SUV will be revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
SEAT launches business edition Leon
SEAT has revealed a new edition Leon - the SE Technology Business - aimed squarely at business drivers.
Strong residual value predicted for Hyundai Tucson
Hyundai has released details for its all-new Tucson's competitive residual values, ahead of its official on-sale date of 3rd September.
Ferrari F40 by LEGO is a Go-Go!
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.
Ricky Wilson is the voice of Civic Type R
Kaiser Chiefs' front man Ricky Wilson has picked up his new Civic Type R, as part of his role as ambassador for the hot-hatch.
Fresh from putting the Civic Type R through its paces on the famous hillclimb at the Goodwood Festival of Speed at the end of June, Ricky is now the owner of a Brilliant Sporty Blue model complete with the all-new +R mode button which increases the response of chassis and engine for enhanced driving skills.
The all-new 2.0 litre VTEC TURBO engine puts 310PS through the front wheels at 6,500rpm and 400Nm of torque at 2,500rpm, both higher than any previous Honda Type R model.
Speaking after taking his first spin, Ricky exclaimed; "What an amazing feeling. This is the first time I've ever had a new car and it's also the first time I've had a car that's a boy. My other two cars were girls! I got in the car and instinctively I knew where everything was, I feel at home in it already.. and I'll get home even quicker!"
Ricky was also treated to a tour of the Swindon factory adding; "It was like a movie - I could hear the Terminator theme music in my head as I walked around. The technology and scale of the operation is out of this world."
Since joining Honda as an ambassador for the Civic Type R at the beginning of summer, Ricky has not only raced the famous Goodwood hillclimb but also secured his National B race licence at Knockhill circuit in Scotland, under the expert guidance of Honda Yuasa Racing BTCC star driver, Gordon "Flash" Shedden.
The Honda Civic Type R is on sale now, from £29,995 OTR.
New Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe unveiled
Following the recent launch of the C-Class Coupe, Mercedes has revealed a new AMG C 63 Coupe.
Technical modifications over the C-Class Coupe are evident at first sight with the flared front and rear wheel arches, an increased track width and larger wheels - lending the AMG C 63 Coupe a muscular look while at the same time providing a basis for the agile longitudinal and lateral dynamics.
The 'extremely wide' front section is characterised by large air inlets and 'precisely positioned flics'. The low, arrow-shaped "twin blade" radiator grille with AMG lettering visually lowers the vehicle's centre of gravity. AMG A-wing front spoiler is three-dimensional, also serving as an air deflector for the three cooling air inlets while the front splitter at the bottom of the apron helps to reduce front-axle lift.
Taking its inspiration from the S-Class Coupe, the completely redesigned rear end includes a diffuser insert and optical air outlet openings improves the rear air flow. The two chrome-plated twin tailpipes of the AMG exhaust system are integrated within the diffuser and the boot lid includes a narrow spoiler lip in the form of a sharp blade, reducing the rear-axle lift.
Powered by the AMG is a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with 350 kW (476 hp) or 375 kW (510 hp) resulting in a 0-62mph time of 4-seconds flat - while the 'S' variant completes the sprint in 0.1 seconds quicker at 3.9 seconds, with both models topping out at an electronically limited 155mph.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission features tailor-made dynamics and high variability. Whether automatic or initiated by the driver using the steering wheel shift paddles, upshifts and downshifts are executed 'noticeably faster' than in the previous model says Mercedes. This increased spontaneity is made possible by an even sportier set-up of the engine and transmission parameters.
The new AMG C 63 Coupe also features a 'sophisticated' AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, as well as AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, rear-axle limited-slip differential and dynamic engine mounts. For improved traction and vehicle dynamics, the C 63 Coupe is provided with a mechanical rear-axle limited-slip differential, while the S derivative comes with an electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential. Both differentials reduce the slip on the inside wheel when cornering, without control interventions in the braking system.
The AMG C 63 Coupe comes as standard with 10-spoke light-alloy wheels 9.0" x 18" (front) and 10.5" x 18" (rear) as well as with tyres of size 255/40 R 18" (front) and 285/35 R 18" (rear). In the case of the C 63 'S' model, the tyre sizes are 255/35 R 19" (front) and 285/30 R 19" (rear) on 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels 9.0" x 19" (front) and 10.5" x 19" (rear).
The Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coupe will receive its world premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show with a market launch set to begin in March 2016.
Limited Edition Zagato binoculars by Leica
Premium camera manufacturer Leica has unveiled a special limited edition set of binoculars, created in collaboration with Italian design house Zagato.
The Ultravid 8x32 'Edition Zagato' blends elegant design with outstanding, cutting-edge optical technology, says Leica, and is strictly limited to just 1,000 sets globally.
Combining quality, craftsmanship and tradition to reflect the values and heritage of both companies, they have been crafted with an aluminium outer shell, featuring hundreds of fine grooves milled into the surface - resulting in a unique, tactile finish, while the front lenses feature two red anodised rings inscribed with the Zagato name.
To complement these special binoculars, the 'Edition Zagato' also includes a case designed by Zagato, with a matching carrying strap and hand strap in genuine Italian leather.
Zagato was founded in Milan in 1919 by Ugo Zagato, famous for having been the first in the automotive industry to apply advanced, lightweight aviation technology to design more aerodynamic car bodies. Zagato's Atelier and Total Design Centre remains in Milan, where it continues to design and build unique, limited-series collectible cars.
The Leica Ultravid 8x32 'Edition Zagato' will be available in the UK from September from selected UK Leica stockists, at a suggested retail price of £2,465.
Lamborghini unveils Aventador LP 750-4 SV Roadster
The new Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce Roadster has made its global debut in California.
The Roadster, presented at the famous event 'The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering' in Monterey, is available in a limited series of 500 units worldwide and is the first series-produced, open-top Lamborghini to bear the name Superveloce.
''The Superveloce is the purest, most sports-oriented and fastest series production Lamborghini ever. The Roadster version represents our commitment to satisfying our passionate clients with immensely emotional driving dynamics combined with an extraordinary open air experience,'' Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini said during the press conference at The Quail.
The new car offers improved performance with a power increase of 50 hp to 750 hp and a dry weight of 1,575 kg - 50 kg lighter than the Aventador LP 700-4 Roadster.
In an enhancement to the Superveloce Coupe experience, the new Roadster features a powered rear window that allows the engine sound to fill the cabin with 'invigorating tones and harmonics during spirited driving', says Lamborghini.
Diesel, News, Saloon, Estate Car
All-new Jaguar XF on sale
The all-new Jaguar XF is available to order now.
Sitting in a class above the recently launched XE saloon, the new XF's low-drag body design is formed around a lightweight architecture and combines the new Jaguar family styling with a longer wheelbase, creating more interior space, yet it's lower and shorter than the car it replaces.
The cabin offers a blend of contemporary luxury materials and finishes, Jaguar craftsmanship and state-of-the art technology, with features such as a reconfigurable 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster, laser head-up display and the InControl Touch Pro premium infotainment system.
The all-new XF uses Jaguar's aluminium-intensive architecture to enable weight savings of up to 190kg - making the 163PS diesel model 80kg lighter than its nearest competitor, says Jaguar - plus an increase in torsional stiffness of up to 28 per cent.
Jaguar says the light, stiff body is also fundamental to the all-new XF's vehicle dynamics along with double wishbone front suspension and Integral Link rear suspension - combined with near-50:50 weight distribution.
Infotainment and connectivity is the most advanced Jaguar has ever offered. The all-new InControl Touch Pro system offers a 10.2-inch touchscreen and Dual View technology which simultaneously allows the driver to see information such as navigation, while the front seat passenger watches TV or a DVD.
Other features include stereo camera technology, which enables autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and lane-keep assist systems.
There's also Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist, traffic sign recognition, a high-contrast colour laser head-up display and adaptive full-LED headlights. If the high-beam assist function is specified, the stereo camera will detect other vehicles in the distance, and dip the headlights automatically to avoid dazzling other drivers.
The all-new XF range will consist of: XF Prestige, XF R-Sport, XF Portfolio, XF S.
The powertrains will consist of: 163PS and 180PS 2.0-litre diesel manual and automatic; RWD 300PS 3.0 V6 diesel automatic; RWD 380PS 3.0-litre V6 petrol automatic.
Jaguar claims the 163PS diesel delivers the lowest CO2 emissions of any non-hybrid model in the segment with 104g/km and combined fuel economy of 70.6mpg.
The all-new XF joins the Jaguar saloon car range between the XE and XJ model lines, priced from £32,300 on the road.
Skoda is UK's most dependable car brand
Skoda has been named as the UK's most dependable brand in a new JD Power study.
The inaugural 2015 UK Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) asked owners to report problems with their new cars - from serious breakdowns to troublesome in-car entertainment issues. Once analysed, the results gave Skoda a clear victory, with the Czech carmaker comprehensively outscoring even the luxury brands.
The study, which focused on new cars registered between April 2012 and March 2014, used owner data to generate an overall dependability score for each brand. Skoda's score of 77 was the lowest in the entire survey, with the Industry Average for 2015 recorded as 114.
Every Skoda in the survey performed better than the industry average, with the Fabia ranked as the third most dependable car in the Small Car category.
Following the JD Power report findings, UK Consumer organisation Which? has also named Skoda as a firm favourite with owners. The organisation's 2015-2016 Car Guide named the Superb and the Yeti as the most satisfying cars to own in the estate and SUV classes, achieving owner satisfaction ratings of 96 per cent and 93 per cent respectively.
Now Teens can Just Add Fuel too
Peugeot's fixed-cost motoring package, Just Add Fuel, is now available to teenage drivers.
Since launch in July 2010, over 27,000 UK drivers have taken advantage of Just Add Fuel but it has only previously been available to drivers aged 21 or older.
Now, thanks to the use of advanced telematics technology, younger drivers aged 18-20 choosing the Peugeot 108, can also benefit from the 3-year package which offers a single monthly payment to cover all motoring costs, including insurance, servicing, road fund licence (£0 on the Peugeot 108), and roadside assistance.
Neil Moscrop, Peugeot Brand Director commented: "Just Add Fuel is recognised as the most significant innovation in vehicle retailing for a number of years. Now we can widen its appeal even further, allowing a broader spectrum of drivers to experience the thrill of owning a new Peugeot car."
Just Add Fuel for those aged 18-20 is only available to Peugeot 108 buyers and is priced from £248 rental per month. A discreet plug-in telematics device is sent to customers immediately after they take delivery of their car and attaches to the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) port under the steering wheel. It's a simple installation but Peugeot Dealers will be happy to help if required.
Via satellite tracking, it stores and sends data on the vehicle's speed, acceleration, deceleration and lateral G-forces to assess the customer's driving style and rate each journey made, on a scale from 1-100.
Customers will have access to an online portal where they can review their driving activity. This is also regularly monitored by the insurer and an aggregate score awarded.
Feedback is provided to assist the customer in improving the score if necessary, but if it falls below an agreed threshold, the driver will receive a warning. Four warnings a year will result in the insurance policy being cancelled and may also reduce the number of insurance products available to the customer, and/or increase the premiums they are quoted.
Terms and conditions apply, including a requirement for a full UK driving licence, permanent UK residency and no 'fault' insurance claims.
Just Add Fuel with telematics is also available to Peugeot 108 buyers aged 21-75 who do not have two years' No Claims Discount, or have held a full UK driver's licence for less than two years.
Mercedes unveils new C-Class Coupe
Mercedes has revealed its new C-Class Coupe.
As the sportiest variant of the C-Class, the Coupe features a new front section with a diamond radiator grille and long bonnet, as well as a high beltline and frameless doors with free-standing exterior mirrors. A 'long drawn-out' dropping line typical of a Coupe, contrasts with the C-Class Saloon - while the suspension is 15 millimetres lower.
On the inside, the driver and passengers share an ambience borrowed from the C-Class Saloon. The individually designed trim elements underscore the sporty character of the interior, says Mercedes, with a seating system - including integral sports seats - designed specifically for the Coupe. With an 80 millimetre longer wheelbase, the C-Class Coupe is 95 millimetres longer and 40 millimetres wider overall. This increased vehicle volume creates more spaciousness for the driver and front passenger and there is more shoulder room, elbow room and headroom in all seats.
The AMG Line trim adds exterior features such as special bumpers and sills, a diamond radiator grille with pins in chrome and 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels. Interior highlights include upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre in black with contrasting topstitching, a multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and AMG sports pedals. The trim in open-pore black ash, combined with aluminium in the dashboard and the doors, emphasises the look. An optional Interior Chrome package features numerous highlights shrouded in silver chrome, including the instrument cluster, the air vents and the door openers.
The C-Class's suspension is set up for a balance of comfort and agile driving dynamics. A new 4-link front axle with wheel suspension decoupled from the spring strut plays a part in the car's handling characteristics. Steel suspension comes as standard. There are two variants with a selective damping system available in conjunction with this suspension, each of which is 15 millimetres lower than on the Saloon: Comfortable AGILITY CONTROL suspension with a sporty character, and Sports suspension with tauter springing and damping including Sports Direct-Steer system for even more agile handling.
The new Coupe is powered by a choice of four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with ECO start/stop functions. Compared with the predecessor they consume up to 27 percent less fuel. There will initially be four petrol engines available with the power spectrum ranging from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine in the C 180 with 115 kW/156 hp to the two-litre C 200 (135 kW/184 hp) and C 250 (155 kW/211 hp) models and the C 300, likewise with a displacement of two litres but with an output of 180 kW/245 hp. The two diesel models are equipped with an enhanced four-cylinder unit developing 125 kW (170 hp) or 150 kW (204 hp) and feature eco-friendly SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for exhaust gas aftertreatment.
A lightweight construction with a higher proportion of aluminium helps make the Coupe lighter than its predecessor. Light-alloy components include the wings, bonnet and boot lid. At the same time, the body is now much stiffer and stronger thanks to the use of high-strength materials, which Mercedes says has a positive effect on not only driving dynamics and noise levels but also crash safety.
There are several safety and assistance systems based on the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive concept to choose from. ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, is included as standard. Further standard equipment includes COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, which features an acoustic warning for the driver at speeds above 5mph and Adaptive Brake Assist to help avoid collisions by boosting the braking effect in line with the current situation.
When a danger of collision persists and the driver fails to respond, the system is able to carry out autonomous braking at speeds of up to 124mph, thereby reducing the severity of collisions. At speeds of up to 31mph the system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles, and is thus able to help prevent rear-end collisions at up to 24mph. In addition to 3-point seat belts with pyrotechnical belt tensioning and belt-force limitation for driver, front passenger and rear passengers, numerous airbags serve to protect the vehicle's occupants in an accident. As in the Saloon, the air conditioning system in the new C-Class Coupe uses satellite navigation to detect tunnels, and closes the air recirculation flap automatically when entering a tunnel and opens it again after exiting a tunnel.
The new Mercedes C-Class Coupe arrives in showrooms in December 2015. Pricing has yet to be announced.
BMW reveals Concept M4 GTS
BMW has previewed a future high-performance model for road and track with the Concept M4 GTS.
The latest model from BMW's M Division, the Concept M4 GTS showcases new technologies set to make their series production debut in a new model to be unveiled at a later date. For example, the engine powering the concept is equipped with the same innovative water injection system that has endowed the BMW M4 MotoGP Safety Car - offering a 'noticeable increase' in output and torque.
Designed to fulfil its purpose as a successful track machine, the Concept M4 GTS includes manually adjustable front splitter and rear wing - both finished in exposed carbon - ensuring a 'perfect aerodynamic balance'. Another example of the engineers' adherence to lightweight design is the CFRP (carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic) bonnet, which lowers the car's weight and centre of gravity further still. A wide front air intake optimises airflow and minimises front axle lift.
Finished in Frozen Dark Grey Metallic, with Acid Orange accents on the front splitter, the lightweight, forged and polished M Sport alloy wheels also feature an Acid Orange accent. The 9.5 J x 19 (front) and 10.5 J x 20 (rear) wheels are fitted with Michelin Sport Cup 2 tyres (265/35 R19 at the front, 285/30 R20 at the rear).
The engine's water injection system, introduced by BMW M Division, uses the physical effect of water when vaporising to draw the required energy. The water is injected into the intake manifold as a fine spray. When the water vaporises, the intake air cools significantly. As a result, the final compression temperature in the combustion chamber - and therefore the engine's tendency to "knock" - is reduced, enabling the turbocharged engine to use higher boost pressure and earlier injection timing.
This technology ensures an increase in output and torque, while at the same time reducing the thermal stress on performance-relevant components. All of which also enhances the stability and durability of the turbocharged engine, says BMW.
The Concept M4 GTS is also fitted with innovative rear lights featuring organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) technology. OLEDs are a new type of light source producing full-surface and homogenous illumination - in contrast to LEDs, which emit light to a single point. OLED technology 'heralds a new era in light design' and lighting concepts, opening up new possibilities when it comes to a characteristic and distinctive light signature for BMW models - both for their daytime driving lights and during the hours of darkness.
No word yet as to if the Concept M4 GTS will make it in to full production.
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.
VUHL 05 now on sale in the UK
The VUHL 05 street-legal lightweight supercar is now officially on sale in the UK, following the appointment of the marque's first European dealer.
Bespoke Performance of Ware in Hertfordshire, is well-known to generations of TVR and Noble enthusiasts, with a long and varied history dating back to the days of John Britten Garages and the ensuing TVR Centre.
A rebranding and move from Barnet to Ware was completed in 2011 and the company now boasts 10,000 sq ft of smart sales and service premises within easy reach of the M1, M11 and M25 motorways.
VUHL Co-Founder Iker Echeverria said: "We naturally researched many options for our first dealer. A number of outlets met our criteria for technical ability, but Bespoke Performance won us over with its unique level of passion, and its commitment to the discerning area of the market at which our product is aimed."
Bespoke Sales Director Dr Mark Kent added: "We have long since searched for a niche product to complement our established relationships with the TVR and Noble brands, and the VUHL is the first to match all our criteria. We have been bowled over by both the level of professionalism exhibited by this new manufacturer and the build quality of its first model."
The first opportunity to see the VUHL in competition will be at the Brighton Speed Trials on Saturday, September 5 while the Kop Hill Climb being held at Princes Risborough over the weekend of September 19-20 will be the public's first opportunity to get up close and personal with the 05 in full street-legal form.
Ford Mustang adopts world-first knee airbag
The all-new Ford Mustang is the first vehicle to be equipped with a new type of knee airbag that is integrated within the lid of the glove box.
Ford says that utilising the glove box lid instead of the instrument panel helps maximise passenger space. Rather than a textile fabric airbag, the technology consists of a moulded plastic design, sandwiched between the outer and inner glove box lid surfaces.
At 46cm long and 28cm wide, the glove box airbag weighs 65 per cent less than a conventional knee airbag but offers comparable protection. In the event of a collision, a tiny gas generator inside the glove box lid inflates the bladder in 20 milliseconds, pushing the lid exterior outwards to provide leg protection. The weight reduction also improves fuel efficiency and the innovation has so far been granted 23 patents.
"This is a new way of thinking about airbags. We went back to the drawing board and in the course of a year went through hundreds of prototypes to get it just right," said Ford restraints manager Sean West. "With this design we were able to combine the functions of two separate parts into one single part to save on space, weight and components; and move the instrument panel further forward, ensuring there was more room for the front passenger."
Altogether the all-new Ford Mustang is equipped with eight airbags as standard and has been awarded the highest-possible safety standard by North American authorities.
Available as a fastback or convertible with 5.0-litre V8 or 2.3 EcoBoost engine, it's on sale in the UK from £29,995 with right-hand drive for the first time in more than 50 years of production.
Concept Car, Supercars, Sports Car, News
BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage R
BMW is to debut the BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage R at The Concours d'Elegance in Pebble Beach.
The car that celebrates both the 40th anniversary of BMW in North America and the racing success of the original 3.0 CSL in the 1975 IMSA series where BMW recorded its first win at the 12 Hours of Sebring.
This was followed by a succession of victories, culminating in the white 3.0 CSL securing the manufacturers' championship at the first attempt.
The Hommage designers focused their attention on the driver and his immediate surroundings. This new approach led them first to the
driver's helmet, race suit and seat before moving onto the lines and surfaces of the interior.
As the layer of interaction closest to the driver, the helmet visor assumes the functions of the head up display and projects situation-
based information such as the car's speed, gear engaged and engine revs into the driver's direct field of view.
The driver's race suit (a classical design by Puma) expresses the connection between the driver and the car so that If both the driver's hands are on the wheel, illuminated piping integrated into the sleeves shows the progress of information - from the shift impulse display, for example - out of the steering column over the driver's arms and into his visor.
The side-section design of the large carbon-fibre seat shells reflects the anatomy of the seated driver for maximum support.
A carbon-fibre roll cage integrated into the structure of the car's roof and side sections forms the basis for the interior's singularly minimalist geometry.
The only "comfort" functions are the two vents on the sides of the steering column, which supply the driver with fresh air at ambient temperature. A small display provides the driver with secondary information such as lap times, overall race time and the car's current track position, as required.
Other racing elements in the interior include red anodised safety features, such as the outlet nozzles for the fire extinguishing foam, the extinguisher itself, and the two switches on the centre console for the emergency shut-off and fire extinguishing mechanism.
The exterior design of the BMW 3.0 CSL Hommage R is framed by distinctive air deflectors, powerful wheel arches and a prominent rear spoiler, which reference the IMSA racing version of the original 3.0 CSL.
The colours and graphics used and details such as the "Bavarian Motor Works" decals on the windscreen and rear window are also a nod to the 1975 racer.
The low, wide front end features a large version of the signature BMW kidney grille, while the surfaces and graphic accents in the front apron showcase the wheels and emphasise its broad, powerful stance.
The long wheelbase and sweeping bonnet stretch the silhouette visually, while dark carbon-fibre surfaces contrast with the Brilliant White metallic paintwork.
At the rear a huge spoiler and carbon-fibre double diffuser combine with a contoured rear apron which draws the eye to the matt gold 21-inch light-alloy wheels with black inlays.
A strip of LEDs extend along the spoiler to link the two lights and provide a stylistic border for the rear end.
Video News - Italian Police chooses SEAT Leon
Ultimate Scalextric track to go under the hammer
Hornby Hobbies' Ultimate 2015 Scalextric track is set to go to auction at CarFest South on Sunday 30 August.
Designed by F1 expert and former racing driver Martin Brundle, the biggest layout the slot car track experts have ever created will take centre stage on Hornby's stand at the festival.
Scalextric's monster track is made up of 177 pieces and is 45 metres long and replicates corners, chicanes and circuit features from the 2015 Formula 1 calendar, including the Ascari Chicane at Monza, Casino Square in Monaco, the Wall of Champions in Canada, Copse corner at Silverstone and the Marina Complex in Abu Dhabi.
Hornby Hobbies Marketing Controller Jim Proctor-Blain said, "We are delighted to be supporting CarFest again this year and are excited so
many people will be able to enjoy the Ultimate 2015 track."
Kindly donated by Hornby and Sky, the Ultimate 2015 track will feature as part of the Classic Car Auctions sale and is offered with no reserve, with all the proceeds from the sale of the track going to Children in Need.
To see and race on the track visit Hornby on stand W25 at CarFest South from 12pm to 7pm on Friday 28 August and 10am to 7pm on 29-30 August.