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
Author: Autocar Magazine UK
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
MG ZS EV
As noble causes go, in the automotive world there are few nobler than the goal of making “hightech, zero-emission cars available to all”, as MG’s UK head of sales, Daniel Gregorious, puts it. Of course, frequently do we hear twee comments, made to similar effect, leaving the mouths of industry executives – but with MG… Continue reading MG ZS EV
Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo: EV estate spied showing new details
Porsche’s winter testing regime has extended to its second electric model, the high-riding Taycan Cross Turismo, seen again with new design details revealed. The rugged estate was first seen undergoing high-speed prototype testing at the Nürburgring, but is now being put to the test around the arctic circle. This new test mule gives us a glimpse at the rear… Continue reading Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo: EV estate spied showing new details
Ruf diamonds: Backstage at the Porsche tuning house
We could talk about the ride and handling but, even by Riethmüller’s own admission, the geometry on this powertrain prototype is slapdash. Best focus on the engine bay. As a highvolume producer, Porsche is now obliged to fit sizeable particulate filters that limit the screech of its own 4.0-litre flat six. But Ruf isn’t, and… Continue reading Ruf diamonds: Backstage at the Porsche tuning house