BMW X1 xDrive25e: prices revealed for plug-in hybrid SUV

BMW has confirmed prices for the new plug-in hybrid xDrive25e version of its second-generation X1 – and confirmed that the same powertrain will appear in the X2 later this year. Available to order now from £38,200 and with deliveries beginning in March, the five-seat SUV will be capable of up to 35 miles of electric range on the… Continue reading BMW X1 xDrive25e: prices revealed for plug-in hybrid SUV

Aston Martin and Gentex to unveil new camera-based monitoring system

Aston Martin and US automotive tech firm Gentex have developed a camera-based rear-view system that will be used in future Aston Martin models. Previewing in prototype form at next week’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, the new technology “dramatically improves” drivers’ abilities to perceive traffic coming from behind and alongside the car, according… Continue reading Aston Martin and Gentex to unveil new camera-based monitoring system

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo ceases production, no successor due

BMW has ceased production of its 3 Series Gran Turismo with no direct replacement on the cards, as the model is removed from price lists for 2020.  With bosses originally claiming demand for the model is still at the desired levels, the decision to ditch the model is instead part of a major cost-cutting efficiency drive. The hatchback version of… Continue reading BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo ceases production, no successor due

Cupra to top new Leon line-up with 241bhp PHEV

The standard, Seat-badged Leon’s engine range will be familiar. Base versions will use the 1.0-litre TSI three-cylinder turbo petrol in varying states of tune, with the new 1.5-litre TSI Evo petrol powertrain drafted in for higher-spec cars. That will be offered as a mild hybrid in higherspec variants, with the 48V system claimed to reduce… Continue reading Cupra to top new Leon line-up with 241bhp PHEV

Under the skin: Why electric superchargers are gaining ground

It’s always good to try early prototypes of new technology, because although some fall by the wayside, plenty don’t. One such clever device is the electrically powered supercharger, generally used in conjunction with a traditional turbocharger to banish turbo lag, initially on diesel engines but now on petrol, too. With the current trend towards down-speeding… Continue reading Under the skin: Why electric superchargers are gaining ground

Toyota plots new Aygo to capitalise on city car demise

Harrison’s comments are an anomaly among mainstream car manufacturers, whose own A-segment city cars have been put under increasing pressure by a number of factors – notably, extremely tight margins and the need to introduce electrification, in an unprofitable way, to ensure the models aren’t problematic in the upcoming fleet average CO2 regulations for 2021.… Continue reading Toyota plots new Aygo to capitalise on city car demise

Next-gen Mini Clubman could be reinvented as an SUV

He did talk about the efforts being made to improve the space efficiency of Mini’s next three-door hatchback. Heilmer said: “For future architecture, we’re having weekly discussions to improve interior space and reduce the car’s footprint. But it’s not solved yet. Maybe next year.” He also noted that the “development cost is also an issue”.… Continue reading Next-gen Mini Clubman could be reinvented as an SUV

New Mazda 2: prices and specs revealed for redesigned supermini

The Mazda 2 is being updated for 2020 to bring it into line with newer rivals, and it’s available to order now with the first examples landing in dealers.  The entry level SE-L model will cost £15,795, and includes rear parking sensors, 15in alloy wheels and climate control. As well a more powerful engine, SE-L Nav models… Continue reading New Mazda 2: prices and specs revealed for redesigned supermini

Vauxhall begins testing Corsa-e electric customer rally car

Vauxhall has begun testing a rally variant of the new Corsa-e electric hatchback, making it the first manufacturer to offer customers an electric rally car.  Called the Corsa-e Rally, the model will be available to buy from sister-brand Opel’s motorsport division, with the German manufacturer claiming a sub-£46,000 price tag.  The cost represents a near-£20,000 increase over the £26,490… Continue reading Vauxhall begins testing Corsa-e electric customer rally car