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Geneva 2012: Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner
(Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:20:00 GMT)
This is the Bentley Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification, which will make its debut at the Geneva motor show next month.
The Mulliner Driving Specification is a new version of the Mulsanne, Bentley’s flagship saloon model. It adds a number of cosmetic upgrades, including:
• Unique 21-inch alloy wheels
• Special polished stainless steel wing vents
• Diamond quilted leather upholstery
• Drilled alloy pedals
• Cross-stitched leather gearlever trim
• Mulliner treadplate plaques
• Bespoke interior finishes
The Mulsanne’s 6.75-litre V8 petrol engine is unchanged, but the Mulliner Driving Specification gets a new ‘Sport’ setting for its Drive Dynamics Control system, which adjusts the steering and suspension settings on the move.
New options are now available for all Mulsanne models; a tilt-opening tinted glass sunroof and a bottle cooler and rear cabin storage area with space for two Champagne bottles.
More details of the Mulsanne Mulliner Driving Specification are expected to be revealed at the Geneva motor show.
Leo Wilkinson
 
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2012 VW Passat Alltrack review
(Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:10:00 GMT)
The VW Passat Alltrack is a rugged four-wheel-drive version of Volkswagen's popular family estate.
It's designed for buyers who need decent off-road ability and a big boot, but don't want a traditional high-sided SUV. Its closest rivals are the Audi A4 Allroad and the Subaru Outback.
The Alltrack isn't simply a Passat with four-wheel drive, though. The higher ride height gives it more ground clearance, while smaller bumpers allow it to tackle steeper approaches. It also has some clever electronic aids to help it claw its way out of sticky situations.
What's it like to drive? The Alltrack will be available with two 2.0-litre diesel engines (one with 138bhp and the other with 168bhp).
The 138bhp provides adequate performance, but is only available with a six-speed manual gearbox. That will tempt some buyers (especially those who need to tow) to go for the 168bhp version, which gets VW's superb semi-automatic DSG gearbox as standard.
To help out in the rough stuff, the Alltrack has a special 'off-road' mode, activated by pressing a button on the centre console. This switches on a descent control system, which automatically brakes the car when descending a steep incline. It also optimises the brakes and differential locks for slippery surfaces.
The result is impressive: the Alltrack hauls itself through boggy fields and up snowy slopes far more capably than you might expect. Don't expect Land Rover levels of toehold, but the Alltrack will embarrass plenty of other SUVs.
Thankfully, the added all-terrain ability hasn't compromised the Passat's excellent on-road manners. It's still a comfortable and refined cruiser on the motorway, and undemanding to drive everywhere else, with light steering and supple suspension.
Don't expect much in the way of fun, but the Alltrack has more grip and tighter body control than most conventional high-sided SUVs.
What's it like inside? No different from any other Passat, which means the Alltrack is one of the most spacious and comfortable estate cars around.
There's little excitement to be had from looking at your surroundings, but it's easy to get comfortable behind the wheel and most of the materials are suitably plush – apart from a disappointingly cheap slab of plastic on the face of the dashboard.
Like the regular Passat estate, the Alltrack has a huge 603-litre boot – bigger than the Audi A4 Allroad or a Subaru Outback. It's a bit of a faff to fold the rear seats down if you need even more space, though; you have to remove the headrests, flip up the bases, then lower the seatbacks.
To go some way towards making up for the high price, the Alltrack has plenty of standard kit, including Alcantara seats, a touch-screen navigation system, climate and cruise controls, Bluetooth and 18-inch alloys.
Should I buy one? If a front-wheel drive Passat won't get you where you need to go, the new Alltrack isn't a bad option. It's surprisingly capable off the beaten track and is bigger, better to drive and cheaper than either an Audi A4 Allroad or a Subaru Outback.
That said, it's pricey for a Passat. Unless you really can't bear the thought of a lofty SUV on your driveway, we'd recommend looking at an Audi Q5 or a BMW X3. They're almost as spacious and will be worth more when you come to sell.
Rivals
Audi A4 Allroad
Subaru Outback.
What Car? says…
Will Nightingale
 
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Geneva 2012: Hyundai i30 Tourer
(Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:00:00 GMT)
This is the Hyundai i30 Tourer, which makes its public debut at the Geneva motor show 2012, and goes on sale in July.
The i30 Tourer is the estate version of the all-new i30. It’s 185mm longer than the hatchback, and 10mm longer than the current i30 Estate.
Loadspace – with the seats in place and up to the load cover – is 528 litres; a 140-litre increase over the hatchback. This i30 exceeds that available in it key rivals – the Ford Focus Estate offers 476 litres, and Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer has 500 litres.
With the rear seats folded, the i30 Tourer has a maximum load capacity of 1642 litres. That compares with a maximum of 1502 litres for the Focus and 1550 litres for the Astra.
The i30 Tourer will be available with the same engine range as the hatchback, with three petrol and three diesel options and power outputs of between 94bhp and 133bhp.
Prices are yet to be confirmed, but we’d expect a premium of around £1000 over the hatchback, so a starting point of around £15,500 is likely.
Leo Wilkinson
 
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Geneva motor show 2012: Mercedes A-Class
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 23:00:00 GMT)
These are the first pictures of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class, which will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
The interior shots were released today as Mercedes announced its new iPhone-integrated media system.
The car maker hopes the technology, which involves hardware called Digital Kit Plus and a Digital DriveStyle App, will appeal to a younger generation of drivers. Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series buyers are being targeted.
The new system has social media at its heart, providing virtually complete connectivity with the user's iPhone including Facebook and Twitter accounts, contacts, SMS, email and music library.
It also boasts personalised internet radio, which works in a similar way to Apple's Genius tool, allowing you to choose music by genre or artist and listen to recommended playlists based on personal taste.
Navigation, meanwhile, is catered for by Garmin mapping and internet-streamed traffic updates.
Further functionality comes in the form of Siri-style speech-recognition, a feature of the iPhone 4GS, which allows users to use natural language to make calls, arrange appointments, and check the weather, news or even stock prices.
The digital media system will be available on the new A-Class as an option, and is expected to cost around £150. It will be offered as an addition to Mercedes'standard Audio 20 system and as an enhancement of the optional Comand online multimedia system.
Given that Comand comes with a £1995 price, however, most buyers, providing of course they have an iPhone, are expected to opt for the much cheaper DriveStyle.
Ralf Lamberti, director of infotainment and telematics at Daimler, and the man responsible for developing the system, said compatibility with Android and Windows smartphone platforms will follow, but no date for this has yet been set.
DriveStyle will make its debut in the new A-Class, before being rolled out to the B-Class, C-Class and E-Class ranges starting later this year.
 
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2012 Seat Exeo ST review
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 18:03:00 GMT)
The Seat Exeo ST has been updated for 2012.
Changes include new optional bi-xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights for SE and Sport trims, while there's improved economy and reduced CO2 emissions across the range.
There are also upgraded cabin materials and new alloys to choose from.
Three 2.0-litre TDI diesel engines are on offer, with outputs of 118bhp, 138bhp and 168bhp. CO2 emissions start at 132g/km, rising to 146g/km. A single 208bhp TSI petrol engine is available, too, with emissions of 159g/km.
Economy for both the 118bhp and manual 138bhp engines improves by 3.2mpg while CO2 is cut by 4g/km. The 168bhp engine improves economy by 2.7mpg and lowers emissions by 6g/km.
We tested the 138bhp diesel, which is available with all trims and is the only engine that can be paired with the optional Multitronic automatic gearbox.
What’s it like to drive? The Exeo ST compares well alongside tough competition from family estate cars such as the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat
Some rough surfaces can be felt through the steering wheel, but larger bumps and uneven surfaces are soaked up confidently and the car feels well balanced and precise at speed.
Around town, the Exeo is easy to drive, thanks to nicely weighted controls. It also feels compact compared with hefty counterparts such the Ford Mondeo.
The motorway is where the ST really excels, though. The strong, flexible diesel engine ensures few gearchanges are needed, while road- and wind noise is well suppressed.
What’s it like inside? The Exeo’s cabin is based on that of the previous-generation Audi A4, which was launched in 2001. It shows its age in some dated switchgear, but it’s impressively classy and well built.
Headroom is good in the front and rear seats, but rear legroom is disappointing, while the 442-litres (with the rear seats in place) of the boot space isn’t exactly huge.
A wide opening and square-sided shape make it useful enough, however, and with the seats folded flat there’s enough load-lugging capacity to satisfy most needs.
Entry-level S trim gets climate and cruise controls, Bluetooth and USB connection, while SE trim adds auto wipers and lights, and rear parking sensors.
The ‘Tech’ package adds a 10-speaker BOSE sound system, leather seats and sat-nav for £900.
Should I buy one? Our pick of the range is the TDI 140 S. It's £745 cheaper than an equivalent Ford Mondeo Zetec model, but that’s before you get a big discount on the Ford, which is roomier and better to drive.
Rivals
Ford Mondeo Estate
Volkswagen Passat Estate
What Car? says
Rory White
 
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Geneva motor show 2012: New Audi A3
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:54:00 GMT)
Images of the new Audi A3 appear to have been leaked on the internet – two weeks ahead of it planned debut at the Geneva motor show.
Russian websites revealed studio images of the car earlier today. They show a neat evolution of the current A3’s exterior styling, with a sharper, more focused front end – incorporating LED daytime running lights - and the retention of the A3’s characteristic thick rear pillar. The white studio car has five-spoke alloys and a subtle integrated roof spoiler.
The sites also posted cabin images, confirming rumours that the next A3 makes a bigger step inside than out. The new fascia appears smaller than before, freeing up cabin space, and the sat-nav screen looks as though it emerges from a slot in the top of the dashboard. After it is deployed, the screen will ‘float’ above the fascia in a manner that's similar to systems in more expensive Audis such as the A7.
Other features include a further development of the A1-esque circular air vents, and cupholders sited in front of the gearlever, almost underneath the dashboard. There’s also one notable absentee – a handbrake lever – suggesting that the A3 is switching to a button-operated electric brake.
Audi has not issued any technical details about the vehicle – and it’s unlikely to do so ahead of the A3's official debut on the eve of the Geneva show on March 5.
The A3 will go head-to-head with the latest BMW 1 Series and new Mercedes A-Class. Another key rival will be the new Volvo V40, images of which have also been leaked ahead of its Geneva debut.
John McIlroy
 
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Geneva motor show: Volvo V40
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:40:00 GMT)
The new Volvo V40 has been revealed ahead of its unveiling at the Geneva motor show next month.
Leaked images of the new model – which is expected to replace the S40 saloon and V50 estate – have appeared on various websites. The images – which appear to be genuine – show the five-door hatchback has a similar look to Volvo’s S60, V60 and XC60 models.
The V40 is expected to go on sale later this year and will give Volvo a much-needed rival to the Audi A3 Sportback, BMW 1 Series and VW Golf.
More details are expected to be released closer to the Geneva motor show.
Leo Wilkinson
 
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New Volvo V40 images leaked
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:40:00 GMT)
The new Volvo V40 has been revealed ahead of its unveiling at the Geneva motor show next month.
Leaked images of the new model – which is expected to replace the S40 saloon and V50 estate – have appeared on various websites. The images – which appear to be genuine – show the five-door hatchback has a similar look to Volvo’s S60, V60 and XC60 models.
The V40 is expected to go on sale later this year and will give Volvo a much-needed rival to the Audi A3 Sportback, BMW 1 Series and VW Golf.
More details are expected to be released closer to the Geneva motor show.
Leo Wilkinson
 
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Geneva 2012: Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:40:00 GMT)
This is the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse – a high-performance version of the Veyron Grand Sport open-top model that makes its public debut at the Geneva motor show 2012.
The Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse is based on the Veyron Super Sport and has the same W16 engine. It has four turbochargers and produces a staggering 1184bhp and 1106lb ft of torque. The Grand Sport Vitesse’s top speed is likely to be only a fraction short of the Super Sport’s 268mph maximum.
Bugatti says there are chassis modifications to handle the power, but hasn’t released any further details.
There’s no word on production dates or prices, either, but the Grand Sport Vitesse is likely to cost at least £2,000,000.
More details will be revealed at the Geneva motor show next month.
Leo Wilkinson
 
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New Euro NCAP test results released
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:16:00 GMT)
Crash test results for the Honda Civic and Jeep Compass have been released by safety body Euro NCAP.
Honda's Civic received the maximum five-star rating, after scoring highly for adult occupant, child occupant, pedestrian and safety assist.
It was also given a Euro NCAP Advanced award for its Collision Mitigation Braking Assist system – a £1900 option with adaptive cruise control on top-spec EX GT models.
The Jeep Compass scored just two stars overall, with poor crash performance in the side pole test highlighted – despite being fitted with the standard thorax airbag. It scored just 23% on pedestrian safety, with the bonnet generally providing poor protection where an adult’s head might strike.
New test rules for 2012 mean cars have to score at least 80% in adult protection, 75% for child protection, and 60% for both pedestrian and safety assist to get five stars.
Reassessed cars get top marks
Various cars originally tested last year were reassessed, with the top five-star rating awarded to the following models:
BMW 1 Series
BMW X1
Ford Focus
Mercedes M-Class
Nissan Leaf
Subaru XV
Volvo V60.
Rosie McMahon
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1 in 6 cars on the road are write-offs
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 11:57:00 GMT)
More than 17% of cars on the road have previously been written-off, according figures from vehicle-check site MyCarCheck.
The research looked at more than 46 million cars.
Of 46,456,106 cars checked, the research revealed 448,307 (17.37%) were previously classified as ‘Cat A’ – described as having suffered too extreme damage to be repaired and should not be in use.
Additionally, 2,049,415 ‘Cat B’ cars – classed as having significant damage and not repairable – were found, while 3,889,630 ‘Cat C’ cars suffering reparable damage that exceeds the vehicle’s value were also identified.
Roger Powell divisional head at CDL Vehicle Information Services, said: According to our data, 17.37% of the total vehicle pool are previous write-offs. If you add in ‘outstanding theft’ categories, the number of vehicles with some sort of insurance marker against them leaps to around one in four.'
A recent survey – from the same company – revealed that 21% of respondents would consider buying a previously written-off used car to save money.
Used car precautions
For more advice on how to avoid the pitfalls of buying a used car, follow our guide to 'Buying a car: used car precautions'.
Rory White
 
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Geneva motor show: Toyota FT-Bh
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:55:00 GMT)
More images of the Toyota FT-Bh concept car have been released ahead of its public debut at the Geneva motor show next month.
Toyota has previously revealed a sketch of the new car, but the two new images show more details. One shows the rear light and tailgate, while the other appears to be a close-up of the headlight.
The FT-Bh name stands for Future Toyota B-segment Hybrid. The B-segment part refers to the conventional supermini category that includes cars such as the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo.
Toyota says the FT-Bh has a ‘downsized’ hybrid powertrain and is built using ‘economically viable methods and materials.’
Despite the FT-Bh having the same dimensions as a full-size supermini, Toyota says the sub-800kg car weighs less than an Aygo 3dr.
Toyota launched an all-new Yaris last year, and a Yaris Hybrid goes on sale in June, so any production model based on the FT-Bh would appear to be some years away.
More details of the FT-Bh concept car will be revealed at the Geneva motor show.
Leo Wilkinson
 
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2012 Fiat Panda review
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:37:00 GMT)
The 2012 Fiat Panda is a practical five-door city car that's longer and wider than the model it replaces.
It has a more rounded body than the previous Panda, and that theme continues through to the cabin, where many of the features also have a more rounded look.
Initially, the new Panda will come with three engines and three trims, with prices from £8900 for a 1.2 Pop. You’ll need to stretch to Easy to get remote central locking and air-conditioning, and the range tops off with the diesel-engined 1.3 Multijet Lounge at £12,250.
This brings the promise of more than 70mpg, as well as alloys, electrically adjustable door mirrors and front foglights.
What’s it like to drive? On the road, there’s an endearing and enjoyable quality to the way the Panda drives: it’s easy to manoeuvre in town, mostly smooth-riding and with a mature feel on the open road.
Other than wind noise from around the side windows, the Panda copes well with motorway journeys, while it grips surely and displays balanced handling along the most twisty country roads.
Even the basic 1.2-litre engine gives decent performance around town and will happily cruise at 70mph. Compared with the larger engines, its relatively limited torque is only obvious at higher speeds, where you often need to drop down a gear to cope with the ebb and flow of traffic.
In this respect, the Twinair petrol engine and the 1.3 Multijet diesel are less demanding, and there’s no denying that their performance is stronger all round. However, given how much extra they cost, and that most Pandas will lead a predominantly urban life, the 1.2 makes more sense.
That conclusion is reinforced by the fact that the 1.2 is also the most refined of the three engines. The Twinair unit is particularly noisy in its native environment of stop-start urban traffic, while the Multijet unit is quite noisy when revved.
What’s it like inside? The Panda’s cabin features dials, stereo and ventilation controls that have a more rounded modern look than the previous car's.
There’s a two-tone colour scheme to the upholstery, although it has to be said that some combinations are rather garish. Similarly, the materials aren’t the last word in quality – there are no soft-touch luxuries in here, just hard-wearing plastics – but they are nice and colourful, especially on the upper two trims (Easy and Lounge).
Up front, head- and legroom are decent, and although the cabin is no bigger than in the old car, Fiat says there’s more room because the front seat backs are thinner.
As long as those front seats aren’t slid too far back, a couple of adults will fit in the back; and, while taking four six-footers is a squeeze, the Panda is very practical for a city car. Its boot is a decent size, while also nicely shaped and with a wide opening that makes it easy to use.
Should I buy one? The Panda is a thoroughly endearing small car, so it should certainly be on the shortlist of anyone considering a city car.
We’re not especially taken with versions that use the Multijet or Twinair engines – especially given their price – but the 1.2 Easy (with remote central locking, air-conditioning and a smarter interior than on Pop cars) looks a fine way to get change from £10,000.
Rivals
Hyundai i10
VW Up
What Car? says
Andy Pringle
 
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New Mercedes SL63 AMG revealed
(Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:00:00 GMT)
This is the Mercedes SL63 AMG, a range-topping version of the new SL roadster that goes on sale in late summer.
The SL63 AMG comes with 530bhp in standard form, but adding the £10,000 (approx) AMG Performance Pack boosts output to 556bhp.
Power is provided by a 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged ‘Biturbo’ V8 engine that propels the SL63 AMG from 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds with the Performance Pack or 4.3 seconds without.
There's a seven-speed automatic sports gearbox, while the car also gets a speed-sensitive sports steering rack and AMG sports suspension with Active Body Control and comfort and sport settings.
The new SL63 AMG weighs 125kg less than the previous model, thanks, in part, to an aluminium bodyshell.
AMG's makeover also includes 19-inch alloys, performance brakes, and bespoke front and rear bumpers.
Full specification is yet to be confirmed, but options include Mercedes' Magic Sky glass roof, which can switch from opaque to transparent at the touch of a button.
Prices should be confirmed at the Geneva motor show, and are expected to increase slightly on the current car’s £106,820.
Tom Webster
 
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Exclusive preview of Toyota Prius +
(Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:01:00 GMT)
The Toyota Prius + is the world’s first hybrid MPV. It doesn’t go on sale until the summer, but we’re giving four lucky What Car? readers the chance to see the seven-seater early next month at a private viewing in Enfield, north London.
If you think this car could be for you and your family, and fancy reviewing it as part of the What Car? Reader Test Team, email us by clicking the link below. You’ll need to be free between 4:30pm and 7pm on Friday, March 2, 2012.
Send us the following information:
• What car you currently drive
• Your occupation
• Your mobile phone number
• Where you'll be driving from on the day
• A few lines on why you're interested in reviewing the Toyota Prius +
Click here to join the Reader Test Team
Emma Butcher
 
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Audi RS5 2012 prices revealed
(Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:40:00 GMT)
The latest Audi RS5 performance model has been launched to complete the 2012 A5 line-up.
The 2012 Audi RS5 gets the same cosmetic enhancements as the rest of the range, including wraparound LED daytime running lights, sharper bonnet contours, a mildly tweaked grille and new front and rear bumpers. In addition, the RS5 comes equipped with new 19-inch alloys.
The interior gains a host of equipment as standard, including Bluetooth, cruise control, DVD satellite-navigation and iPod connectivity, while radar-activated cruise control is a no-cost option. Further changes include a new flat-bottomed steering wheel and detail improvements to the dashboard switchgear.
Under the bonnet, the RS5 remains much the same. The 4.2 V8 delivers 450bhp, with a 0-62mph time of 4.5 seconds. Economy has been marginally improved, with an average of 26.9mpg, while CO2 emissions are reduced by 5g/km to 246g/km.
The revised version includes new electromechanical power steering to improve efficiency, although the seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddles remains the same.
Dynamic Ride Control is no longer standard, but is part of a £2250 Sport Package, which also adds a sports exhaust, Dynamic Steering and 20-inch, titanium-effect alloy wheels.
Prices for the RS5 are unchanged, and start at £58,725. The 2012 RS5 is on sale now, with first deliveries in April.
Dan Alcock
 
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Toyota Aygo 2012 prices revealed
(Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:40:00 GMT)
The Toyota Aygo 2012 range will start from £8495. Entry point for the new range is the 1.0 VVT-i 3dr, which costs £95 less than the cheapest model in the current range.
In addition, the revised engine now emits 99g/km of CO2, so buyers will be exempt from the London Congestion Charge. Fuel economy has been improved from an average of 61.4mpg to 65.7mpg.
Two new models – Fire from £9595 and Ice from £9895 – head the range. These are special-edition models, but are expected to be available into 2013.
The sporty ‘Fire’ is available in a Burnt Orange paint finish, with matching side mouldings and interior trim, as well as privacy glass, foglamps and LED daytime running lights. The ‘Ice’ is focused on comfort, and adds DAB radio, air-conditioning, Bluetooth, USB connectivity and leather-and-Alcantara upholstery.
Fire and Ice buyers have the option of an ‘Xtraprotected Pack’, which adds rear parking sensors, mud flaps, carpet mats, rear bumper protection plate and side protection mouldings. A ’Style Pack’ is available for the Ice model, which adds chrome trim, aluminium scuff plates and chrome exhaust pipe; ‘Style+’ adds 14-inch alloys.
Metallic paint and Toyota’s Multimode semi-auto transmission are available for all but the entry-level version.
The 2012 Aygo is a rival for city cars such as the Fiat Panda, Seat Mii and VW Up. It’s closely related to the Citroen C1 and Peugeot 107, which have both been updated for 2012.
Dan Alcock
 
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Aston Martin reveals V8 Vantage updates
(Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:48:00 GMT)
Aston Martin has revealed updates to its 2012 Vantage range.
Prices will start at £84,995 and will rise to £330,000 for the limited edition V12 Zagato.
The upgrades to the V8 Vantage include quicker, more responsive steering and bigger brakes. Hill Start Assist is also now included as standard.
Aston's new seven-speed semi-automatic transmission is also available as an option, replacing the previous six-speed auto.
Styling changes inspired by the Vantage S and N400 limited edition include a lower front bumper and splitter, while revised sills and a new rear bumper with a diffuser add to the visual upgrades.
These technical and styling changes have been applied to both the V8 Vantage Coupe and Roadster models, with prices starting from £84,995.
Pete Barden
 
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Megane Renaultsport 265 from £24,825
(Mon, 20 Feb 2012 15:10:00 GMT)
The new Renault Megane Renaultsport 265 will cost from £24,825 when it goes on sale in early April.
The Megane Renaultsport 265 comes with a ‘Sport’ mode that boosts the default power setting of 247bhp to 261bhp – 14bhp more than the 250 model it replaces. It also changes the exhaust note to provide a more sporty soundtrack.
The extra power shaves a tenth off the 0-62mph sprint, with the 256 taking 6.0 seconds. The top speed is boosted by 2mph to 158mph.
New options include a £350 ‘Red Styling Pack’, which adds red striping on the front blade, rear diffuser and side protection mouldings.
A rear camera and front parking sensors are also available for £360, while a fatigue-detection system adds £300.
Buyers who want the Cup’s firmer suspension can pay £1350 to add it to the more luxurious 265. They'll also get 18-inch black alloys, grooved disc brakes with red calipers, a limited-slip differential and Michelin Sport 2 tyres.
The basic Cup comes with cloth upholstery, while the standard 265 adds leather and electrically powered seat adjustment.
The cars are available to order now, with Cup versions from £24,825, while the standard 265 will start at £26,025.
Tom Webster
 
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Geneva motor show: More Fiat 500L photos
(Mon, 20 Feb 2012 14:52:00 GMT)
Fiat has released more pictures of the new Fiat 500L.
The 500L aims to blend improved practicality with enough of the trendy looks that have made the regular Fiat 500 such a hit.
The 500L will be launched at the Geneva motor show, and while it has the iconic three digits on its badging, its size means it has more in common with the Fiat Punto Evo.
It’s 4140mm long, 1780mm wide and 1660mm high, making it 590mm longer, 150mm wider and 170mm higher than a 500. Those dimensions mean it’s longer, wider and taller than the Citroen C3 Picasso.
The new model will be offered with Fiat’s 0.9-litre two-cylinder Twinair engine, a conventional four-cylinder 1.4-litre petrol engine or a 1.3-litre diesel. Transmissions are likely to be either a five-speed manual or Fiat’s Dualogic automated manual.
Fiat has yet to announce any performance figures or official fuel economy stats – or images of the car’s interior – but given that the smaller engine manages to take the Punto Evo down to below 100g/km, we’d expect it to achieve a similar feat here.
The new model shares its name with the 500, but it won’t share its factory in Poland. Instead the 500L will be built at Fiat’s Serbian facility, in Kragujevac.
It’s not due in UK dealerships for a while, either; it won’t go on sale until the start of 2013.
Expect it to carry a premium of around £3000 over the comparable 500; that’ll bring its prices into line with those of its main rivals, including the C3 Picasso.
Iain Reid
 
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Breathalysers needed in France from July
(Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:05:00 GMT)
Anyone driving in France must carry a breathalyser kit from July 1, or face an on-the-spot fine of €11 (around £9.15).
Single-use breathalyser kits cost between £1 and £2, and will be on sale at all ferry and rail terminals. Multiple-use devices are available, and our review of such breathalysers can be found here.
The legal limit for drink-driving in France is 50mg per 100ml of blood, while in the UK it is 80mg per 100ml.
‘The new French rule is a genuine attempt to reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents,’ said IAM director of policy and research Neil Greig. ‘The country's lower limit means it’s very easy to be over the limit the morning after as well.’
Existing laws require all motorists driving in France to carry a warning triangle and a high-visibility vest, while UK drivers must display a ‘GB’ badge and have headlights adjusted for driving on the right.
Tom Webster
 
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10 top used sports cars
(Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:02:00 GMT)
If you're looking for the best used sports cars for sale, then look no further: here's our guide to the top 10 used sports cars that combine fun with value.
Audi R8
Model 4.2 V8
Year '07/57
Pricing £37,040 - £71,990
Average MPG 19.3
Our verdict The Audi R8 is a bona fide supercar that gives Ferraris, high-end Porsches and Lamborghinis a run for their money.
Audi R8 review
Audi TT
Model 1.8T Quattro
Year '05/05
Pricing £3200 - £10,900
Average MPG 30.1
Our verdict The Audi TT has stunning looks inside and out – it's a design icon now – and dynamics to match. It still looks as fresh as the day it appeared, and it remains a real head-turner
Used Audi TT review
Ford Focus ST
Model ST2
Year '06/55
Pricing £5970 - £8890
Average MPG 30.4
Our verdict The Focus ST has in-your-face styling, 222bhp and a raucous exhaust note. ST2 trim has xenon lights, a heated windscreen and an upgraded stereo.
Used Ford Focus review
Jaguar XK
Model 4.2 V8
Year '08/08
Pricing £17,945 - £30,080
Average MPG 25
Our verdict The excellent Jaguar XK is a smooth blend of sports coupe and grand tourer for a bargain price. Its V8 sounds great, too.
Used Jaguar XK review
Mazda MX-5
Model 1.8
Year '04/53
Pricing £2910 - £3990
Average MPG 32.5
Our verdict With the Mazda MX-5 there is no cheaper way to get wind-in-your-hair motoring and put a smile on your face .
Used Mazda MX-5 review
Nissan 350Z
Model 3.5 V6
Year '07/07
Pricing £9870 - £13,650
Average MPG 24.1
Our verdict The Nissan 350Z, with its rear-wheel drive and 296bhp, is a throwback to coupes of old, but it’s also amazing to drive.
Used Nissan 350Z review
Porsche Boxster
Model 2.7
Year '06/56
Pricing £9205 - £19,990
Average MPG 29.7
Our verdict The Porsche Boxster is a full-blooded sports car and amazing to drive, but not so raw that you can use it only at weekends. A full service history is essential.
Used Porsche Boxster review
Renault Megane Renaultsport
Model Renaultsport 225 Cup 3dr
Year '07/07
Pricing £3375 - £5585
Average MPG 33.2
Our verdict The Megane Renaultsport's styling isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s no denying the sheer capability of the car. It seats four, offers 225bhp and blasts from 0-60mph in just six seconds, all for a bargain price on the used market.
Renault Megane Renaultsport 225 Cup review
Skoda Octavia vRS
Model 2.0 TFSI VRS
Year '07/07
Pricing £4195 - £12,915
Average MPG 36.2
Our verdict The Skoda Octavia vRS is a fine example of practical performance. A big boot, plenty of interior space and a superb standard of build quality are made fun with plenty of power. Used prices are attractive.
Used Skoda Octavia review
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Model 2.0 TFSI GTI 5dr
Year '05/55
Pricing £6575 - £13,190
Average MPG 34.9
Our verdict The Golf GTI is a scream to drive and highly versatile. True to the original GTI’s ethos, it’ll make any driver smile.
VW Golf GTI review
Rory White
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Top 10 used sports cars
(Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:02:00 GMT)
If you're looking for the best used sports cars for sale, then look no further: here's our guide to the top 10 used sports cars that combine fun with value.
Audi R8
Model 4.2 V8
Year '07/57
Pricing £37,040 - £71,990
Average MPG 19.3
Our verdict The Audi R8 is a bona fide supercar that gives Ferraris, high-end Porsches and Lamborghinis a run for their money.
Audi R8 review
Audi TT
Model 1.8T Quattro
Year '05/05
Pricing £3200 - £10,900
Average MPG 30.1
Our verdict The Audi TT has stunning looks inside and out – it's a design icon now – and dynamics to match. It still looks as fresh as the day it first appeared, and it remains a real head-turner
Used Audi TT review
Ford Focus ST
Model ST2
Year '06/55
Pricing £5970 - £8890
Average MPG 30.4
Our verdict The Focus ST has in-your-face styling, 222bhp and a raucous exhaust note. ST2 trim has xenon lights, a heated windscreen and an upgraded stereo.
Used Ford Focus review
Jaguar XK
Model 4.2 V8
Year '08/08
Pricing £17,945 - £30,080
Average MPG 25
Our verdict The excellent Jaguar XK is a smooth blend of sports coupe and grand tourer for a bargain price. Its V8 sounds great, too.
Used Jaguar XK review
Mazda MX-5
Model 1.8
Year '04/53
Pricing £2910 - £3990
Average MPG 32.5
Our verdict With the Mazda MX-5 there is no cheaper way to get wind-in-your-hair motoring and put a smile on your face .
Used Mazda MX-5 review
Nissan 350Z
Model 3.5 V6
Year '07/07
Pricing £9870 - £13,650
Average MPG 24.1
Our verdict The Nissan 350Z, with its rear-wheel drive and 296bhp, is a throwback to coupes of old, but it’s also amazing to drive.
Used Nissan 350Z review
Porsche Boxster
Model 2.7
Year '06/56
Pricing £9205 - £19,990
Average MPG 29.7
Our verdict The Porsche Boxster is a full-blooded sports car and amazing to drive, but not so raw that you can use it only at weekends. A full service history is essential.
Used Porsche Boxster review
Renault Megane Renaultsport
Model Renaultsport 225 Cup 3dr
Year '07/07
Pricing £3375 - £5585
Average MPG 33.2
Our verdict The Megane Renaultsport's styling isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s no denying the sheer capability of the car. It seats four, offers 225bhp and blasts from 0-60mph in just 6 seconds, all for a bargain price on the used market.
Renault Megane Renaultsport 225 Cup review
Skoda Octavia vRS
Model 2.0 TFSI VRS
Year '07/07
Pricing £4195 - £12,915
Average MPG 36.2
Our verdict The Skoda Octavia vRS is a fine example of practical performance. A big boot, plenty of interior space and a superb standard of build quality are made fun with plenty of power. Used prices are attractive.
Used Skoda Octavia review
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Model 2.0 TFSI GTI 5dr
Year '05/55
Pricing £6575 - £13,190
Average MPG 34.9
Our verdict The Golf GTI is a scream to drive and highly versatile. True to the original GTI’s ethos, it’ll make any driver smile.
VW Golf GTI review
Rory White
 
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Geneva 2012: Lancia-badged 4WD Chrysler
(Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:45:00 GMT)
Lancia will show a four-wheel-drive version of the Thema at the Geneva motor show; the car that will be badged as the Chrysler 300C when it reaches the UK.
The car can automatically enable its four-wheel-drive system during colder periods, or when sensors detect rain or snow.
Four-wheel drive is then switched off when not required, which will improve fuel economy by up to 5%, according to Lancia.
However, it's not certain whether the UK-bound versions – badged as the Chrysler 300C – will come with the system. A UK spokesman said: ‘Never say never. There is no reason why not, but it is yet to be confirmed.’
Also at Geneva is the Lancia Ypsilon, which goes on sale this month, with prices from £12,750.
The manufacturer's display will also include a convertible version of the Lancia Flavia, which will not come to the UK .
Tom Webster
 
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 What Car? Magazine Online is the UK's best source of expert, impartial advice on all aspects of buying, owning and selling cars.
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