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The New BMW 730Ld Key new 7 Series derivative for the UK goes on sale One of the most important derivatives of the BMW 7 Series has gone on sale. The long-wheelbase BMW 730Ld is the latest addition to the marque’s flagship model range and is a welcome introduction for chauffeurs and business users. Priced at £56,790 OTR, the BMW 730Ld offers an additional 14cms of legroom for rear seat passengers and a wealth of optional enhancements aimed at cocooning occupants in a hi-tech, luxurious environment.
The latest BMW 730Ld builds on the standard-wheelbase specification with self-levelling rear suspension, chrome rain channels in the roof, illuminated interior rear vanity mirrors and an electrically-powered sunblind for the rear window. This long-wheelbase specification can be enhanced with optional multi-adjustable Comfort Seats for both front and rear seat passengers. This is complemented by individually heated and air-conditioned seats that can also be fitted, in the rear, with a massaging capability. Two levels of rear entertainment package completes the initial bespoke passenger experience. The BMW Business package comprises twin adjustable 8-inch flat screen monitors with a remote control. The system is flexible enough to permit two different programmes, DVDs or MP3 devices and games consoles to be played or viewed at the same time. The higher specification BMW Professional system comes with 9-inch twin flat adjustable monitor screens, twin wireless headphones and is operated by an iDrive controller in the rear armrest. The new BMW 730Ld is powered by an all-aluminium 2,993cc straight-six cylinder diesel engine that produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. A peak torque figure of 540Nm is attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm and this results in a zero to 62mph time of 7.3 seconds and a 153mph top speed. Its 194g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, as is its 38.7mpg combined consumption figure. The BMW 730Ld comes with a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Every modern BMW uses EfficientDynamics technologies as standard to maximise economy and emissions figures, while also improving output and engine performance for a greater driving experience. The BMW 7 Series features Brake Energy Regeneration that uses the engine’s power on overrun, such as braking, to charge the battery for the car’s electrical system. Other ancillaries, such as the air-conditioning compressor, are also able to disengage to improve the all round performance of the car. Chassis refined for rear seat comfort Drive Dynamic Control featuring Variable Damping Control comes as standard on the new BMW 730Ld. Drive Dynamic Control is the umbrella function that lets a driver customise the characteristics of his or her car. Variable Damping Control can be set in comfort, normal, sport and sport + modes. For the first time though these settings are infinitely variable depending on driving style and road surface condition. The selected mode now alters the throttle response, gear change speed and steering feel. The BMW 7 Series also marks the first time the dampers of a BMW feature compression and rebound damping capability for enhanced ride quality. The BMW 7 Series comes as standard with Dynamic Stability Control + featuring additional functions such as Hill-Start Assistant, Brake Drying, Brake Pre-tensioning, Soft-stop and Brake Fade Compensation. Dynamic Traction Control can be activated via a button to enable spirited driving or greater traction on slippery surfaces such as snow and ice. The BMW 730d and 730Ld are predicted to account for 85 per cent of all 7 Series sales in the UK during a full year. A long-wheelbase version of a diesel-powered 7 Series was first introduced in September 2005 following a high level of interest from chauffeurs and business users. For more information please contact our sales team on 01225 448145 who will be happy to help. New Generation Toyota Prius Unveiled KEY POINTS
A new chapter in the history of Prius opens at the Detroit motor show with the official unveiling of the all-new, third-generation of Toyota’s world-leading hybrid power car. With a heritage of more than one million sales worldwide since the original model was launched in 1997, new Prius takes the benefits of hybrid to a new level, promising even better fuel economy and performance and reduced full lifecycle emissions, from manufacturing through to ultimate disposal. These qualities are combined with sharper styling, improved interior space and comfort and a more rewarding driving experience. New Prius remains a full hybrid, a car that can run on its petrol engine or electric motor alone, or on a combination of both, according to driving conditions. It adopts a larger, 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine, while a comprehensive re-engineering of the Hybrid Synergy Drive system brings significant reductions in weight and size, contributing to the overall improvements in fuel economy and emissions. Further weight saving gains are achieved through more extensive use of lightweight aluminium and ultra high-tensile steel in new Prius’s construction. Prius is built on an all-new platform for better handling, stability and safety and it benefits from new styling that is sharper and sportier, while achieving even better aerodynamic performance. With the benefit of more wind tunnel testing than any other Toyota before, it achieves a coefficient of drag (Cd) figure of 0.25, the lowest of any mass produced car in the world. With particular attention paid to the flow of air beneath the car, this supports quieter running, improved stability and greater fuel efficiency. Prius retains its distinctive wedge shape and is only marginally longer than the current model, but changes to the roof profile improve rear seat headroom and revisions to packaging of the Hybrid Synergy Drive system allow for more space in the boot. The interior has also undergone a comprehensive redesign, with improved ergonomics and styling that reflects Prius’s user-friendly application of advanced technologies. New Prius performance and specification details specific to the European market will be announced at the Geneva motor show in March. The model is due to go on sale in the UK this summer. For more information on the New Prius call into your nearest Platinum Toyota dealership in Bath or Trowbridge. The new BMW Z4
The latest in BMW’s long and successful roadster family has been revealed. The all-new BMW Z4 will go on sale in May 2009 and features a host of innovations never before showcased during BMW’s 75 years of roadster heritage. The BMW Z4 is the first to come with a two-piece, electro-hydraulically operated Retractable Hard-Top roof that can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds. The new roadster is also the first vehicle to be offered with Adaptive M Suspension. Electronically controlled dampers offer three different configurations and lower the ride height by up to 10mm for a more dynamic drive. By way of comparison, the Sport+ setting of the new car is comparable to the outgoing Z4’s standard ride comfort level. The standard Drive Dynamic Control function is another first and allows the driver to alter, depending on model specification, the throttle and steering response, level of ride comfort, Dynamic Stability Control response and, on automatic or Double Clutch Transmission cars, gear change times.
* Electronically-limited. Figures in brackets denote car with automatic gearbox or Double Clutch Transmission. Powering the new BMW Z4 is a choice of three six-cylinder powerplants. The range flagship is the current International Engine of the Year-winning 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine. Producing 306hp at 5,800rpm, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i powers its way from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds (5.1 seconds for a Double Clutch Transmission-equipped car) and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. he twin-turbocharged 2,979cc engine with high-precision direct injection technology produces 400Nm of torque from just 1,300rpm for effortless in-gear acceleration. The strong performance credentials are matched in terms of economy and emissions. The Z4 sDrive35i records a combined consumption figure of 30.1mpg (31.4mpg) and CO2 emissions of 219g/km (210g/km). Joining this model in the launch line-up are the Z4 sDrive23i and the Z4 sDrive30i. Both use the same magnesium aluminium alloy engine with Double VANOS and VALVETRONIC technology, but with varying capacities. The 2,497cc entry-level Z4 sDrive23i produces 204hp at 6,400rpm and 250Nm of torque from 2,750rpm. This equates to a zero to 62mph time of 6.6 seconds (7.3 seconds for the Sport Automatic) and a top speed of 151mph (149mph). In contrast the Z4 sDrive23i is capable of 33.2mpg (34.4mpg) on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 199g/km (192g/km) respectively. All three six-cylinder powerplants surpass the latest strict EU5 emissions standards. The BMW Z4 sDrive30i comes with a 2,996cc powerplant offering 258hp at 6,600rpm and 310Nm of torque from 2,600rpm. The six-cylinder engine records a zero to 62mph time of 5.8 seconds (6.1 seconds for the Sports Automatic) and an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Like the Z4 sDrive23i, the Z4 sDrive30i posts impressive combined consumption and CO2 emissions figures, recording 33.2mpg (34.0mpg) and 199g/km (195g/km). Transmitting the power to the road in all three Z4s is a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Customers of the Z4 sDrive23i and the Z4 sDrive30i who prefer the characteristics of an automatic can specify a six-speed Sport Automatic transmission featuring gear change paddles on the steering wheel. Buyers of the Z4 sDrive35i can choose the more advanced seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission, again with gear shift paddles located on the steering wheel. EfficientDynamics Enhanced packaging For the first time on a BMW Z4 there is a bespoke storage facility located behind the driver and passenger seats. This approximate 15.5-litre single compartment stretches the width of the car’s interior and features netting to hold the contents in place. It can be complemented by an optional Storage Package that adds further stowage capacity. BMW’s latest generation of iDrive makes its first appearance on a Z4. The BMW Professional Multimedia Navigation system features a hard disc drive capable of 12Gb of audio file storage and BMW ConnectedDrive functionality. The system also comes with eight programmable Favourite buttons as system shortcuts. The unique roof construction of the BMW Z4 creates a boot that varies in capacity from 180 to 310 litres – large enough to stow a full set of golf clubs. For the first time on a BMW Z4 customers can specify a through-loading system for additional storage capability. A hatch between the two seats permits a second full set of golf clubs to be carried. Driver visibility in the BMW Z4 has also been improved. All round visibility is up by 14 per cent while, courtesy of the four electric windows creating a larger glasshouse, side visibility is up 40 per cent. The Retractable Hard-Top roof features a glass rear window and this too improves visibility by 52 per cent. Prices for the new BMW Z4 will be announced in 2009, for more information please call our Sales team on 01225 448145. Toyota Presents The New Avensis: Built In Britain KEY POINTS
INTRODUCTION New engines and transmissions have been developed using Toyota Optimal Drive technology to return significantly better fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the previous generation model. New Valvematic petrol engines and revised D-4D and D-CAT clean diesel units balance driving pleasure with strong environmental performance and reduced running costs. Together they offer the private and company car driver all the power and comfort they are used to as well as the low emissions and fuel consumption they now demand. New Avensis is available in saloon and tourer body styles with four equipment grades: T2, TR, T4, and T Spirit. All offer a high level of features for safety, comfort and convenience, with advanced features such as a Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist/Lane Departure Warning (LKA/LDW) and premium satellite navigation system with built-in hard drive for storing music files available in the model for the first time. UK sales of new Avensis start on 1 January with on-the-road prices from £15,760. TOYOTA OPTIMAL DRIVE POWERTAINS New 1.8 and 2.0-litre Valvematic engines – more power for less fuel Across the range the new 1.8 and 2.0-litre Valvematic petrol engines achieve a reduction in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption of between 10 and 26 per cent, while at the same time increasing power by between three and 20 per cent, compared to the VVT-i engines used by the previous generation Avensis. Revised D-4D and D-CAT diesel engines – up to 10% lower emissions The challenge was to develop these engines to give excellent performance and low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, while at the same time achieving a substantial reduction in the level of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. Together the new diesel engine technology features deliver a reduction in CO2 and fuel consumption levels between one and 10 per cent compared to the previous generation Avensis; the 2.2-litre D-4D 150 and 2.2-litre 150/180 D-CAT engines all meet Euro V emissions standards. Advanced new transmissions – diesel automatic for the first time Multidrive S, Toyota’s new and advanced continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available with the 1.8 and 2.0-litre Valvematic petrol engines. And for the first time on a Toyota diesel passenger car, a six-speed automatic will be available, offered on the 2.2-litre D-CAT 150. All petrol engines are fitted with a newly developed six-speed manual transmission, while the diesel engines are matched to the proven six-speed manual gearbox featured in the previous generation Avensis. NEW PLATFORM WITH REVISED SUSPENSION A new platform provides an excellent balance of high-speed stability and low speed agility, and to enhance performance, both the MacPherson strut front suspension and the double wishbone rear suspension have been re-engineered with improvements in torsional stiffness and roll rigidity. Front shock absorber and rear lateral force steer specifications have also been upgraded. New, large diameter wheels with wider tyres are fitted to further improve stability and dynamic handling. A flush underfloor design helps maintain stability at high speeds, reduces noise and contributes to fuel efficiency through improved aerodynamics. New Avensis’s precise and flexible responsiveness is built on the strong foundations of a new, precision-welded platform of exceptional rigidity and a car body with excellent aerodynamics. This new platform is fundamental to the car’s handling and also contributes greatly to its safety and quiet running. High tensile steel accounts for much of the constituent steel body components, which helps reduce weight, increase rigidity and ensure superb collision safety performance. HIGHEST SAFETY STANDARDS Active safety for full control Steering Assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+) is a new feature on Avensis, also fitted to all models. VSC+ operates with the Traction Control (TRC) to improve traction and safety in low grip conditions, going beyond the protection provided by conventional VSC systems by adding steering torque assist to help the driver counter the effects of under or oversteer in an emergency situation. Optional Pre-Crash Safety system EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS TR is the feature grade, accounting for a majority of new Avensis sales, and builds on the T2 specification with the addition of 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, automatic air conditioning, audio system with Bluetooth and Aux-in socket, cruise control with speed limiter (not 1.8 Valvematic with Multidrive S), automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, driver’s seat power lumbar support, leather steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth switches, leather gear knob trim, titanium centre console finish, electric rear windows and, on the tourer, boot rails. Key elements of the T4 grade, above the TR specification, include special design 17-inch alloys, leather upholstery, auto-dimming rear view mirror, electric adjustable heated front seats and steering wheel with memory setting and Toyota’s Smart Entry and Start keyless system. The T4 tourer comes with rear privacy glass. T Spirit is the pinnacle of the grade structure, adding 18-inch alloys in an exclusive design, rear parking sensors, a premium sound system with 11 speakers and CD changer, bi-xenon headlamps with the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) and headlamp washers. The T Spirit Tourer is fitted with a panoramic roof as standard. For more information on the All New Avensis, please contact our sales team at Toyota Bath on 01225 486200 or Toyota Trowbridge on 01225 756550. The new BMW 7 Series A technical ‘tour de force’ arrives in showrooms As a world first in the new, fifth generation BMW 7 Series, Speed Limit Display comes as standard with the optional Lane Departure Warning system. Using a camera mounted behind the rear view mirror, the system cross-references the GPS navigation system information and the real-world information to constantly monitor the legal speed limit, and relays this information to the driver in the dashboard or, if specified, into the Head-up Display. The car’s hard drive is pre-programmed with all of Europe’s speed limits but, in the case of road works or incidents, limits can vary. The camera reads the numbers on temporary road signs and over-rides the known speed limit, bringing this information constantly into the driver’s line of sight. Night Vision is a familiar BMW technology that has been advanced and adapted for the new BMW 7 Series. BMW was the first to bring a Night Vision system to market but the new 7 Series also features another world first - Pedestrian Recognition. Scanning the road up to 300 metres ahead, much further than even the most powerful xenon headlamps, Night Vision highlights the shape and proximity of any heat sources that are close to the predicted path of the car. With Individual Pedestrian Recognition, the system uses video data and complex algorithms to predict if any pedestrians are behaving abnormally and are likely to move into the path of the car. The driver is alerted by warning symbols in the control display or the Head-up Display if specified. BMW’s Lane Departure Warning system uses the same camera as the Speed Limit Display but this time, monitors the white lines on the road ahead. If it notices the car deviating out of lane without the driver indicating, they are notified by a vibrating steering wheel. This familiar system can be complemented on the new 7 Series by BMW’s new Lane Change Warning. Two sensors in the rear bumper monitor the blind spots to either side of the 7 Series. When they detect a car that may be out of the direct view of the driver and the indicator is activated, an orange warning triangle illuminates in the door mirror to warn of the danger lurking in the driver’s blind spot. If this is ignored, a steering wheel vibration acts as a further warning. Side view cameras are a BMW first and are available as an option working alongside the standard Park Distance Control and optional Reversing Assist Camera. Using cameras mounted in the front bumper, the driver can see around obstacles or pull out of difficult junctions with confidence. Activated using a button in the centre console, the driver is presented with a split-screen view of both directions in the iDrive display. Finally, BMW is the first premium manufacturer to offer Integral Active Steering (IAS) – effectively four wheel steering. IAS offers more direct steering responses and a smaller turning circle at slower speeds while, at higher speeds, delivers a more composed ride. For more information on the BMW Range please call our Sales Team on 01225 448145 or visit our showroom.
The New Wellsway MINI is Now Open The group is delighted to announce the opening for business of the new Wellsway MINI dealership on the Lower Bristol Road, next door but one from its previous home within the Wellsway BMW dealership. The company would like to thank all involved personnel in their efforts to bring this project to fruition. Further information and pictures will be published on the Wellsway MINI website (www.wellswaymini.co.uk) in due course. Please note the new telephone numbers as follows: Sales – 01225 324900 Wellsway is pleased to announce that they have been named Car Dealer of the Year for 2008 at the Bath Life Awards The prestigious annual Bath Life Awards celebrate the very best of Bath - living, working, shopping, eating, drinking and socialising. Wellsway attended the Awards ceremony with a number of invited customers and enjoyed an evening of great food, wine, entertainment and company. Martyn Read Dealer Principal for Wellsway and Saffron Rabey Corporate Sales Executive collected the award on behalf of the dealership and were cheered on by their table of excited customers, all of whom were very pleased to be sat on a winning table. After the ceremony and before too many glasses of champagne Martyn Read said “we are extremley pleased to have been awarded Car Dealer of the Year for Bath, as the only prestige dealership in Bath we pride ourselves with offering the best possible product and service for the people of Bath. It’s fantastic to have the Wellsway name mentioned as the Best in Bath” For photos of the event take a look at our Dealer Gallery on our website www.wellswaybmw.co.uk Škoda Superb Goes On Sale Škoda’s flagship model, the New Superb, goes on sale in UK showrooms today, Thursday 18 September. Priced from just £15,490, Škoda’s latest hatchback features everything customers have come to expect from the brand – value for money, incredible functionality, elegant design and high build quality. The car will be available with a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines, from the 1.9 TDI PD 105 bhp to the impressive 3.6 V6 260 bhp 4x4 DSG. A new 2.0 TDI common rail diesel engine with an impressive 170 bhp is available for the first time and four wheel drive and DSG gearboxes are also debuting on a number of engines. Insurance groups start from a 6E rating on the entry level diesel and 7E on the entry level petrol, both of which are extremely low for a car of this size. Three trim levels are available on the New Superb: S, SE and Elegance. Standard features across the range include ESP, seven airbags, front and rear electric windows, alloy wheels and ‘Twindoor,’ a unique system for variable boot opening, never seen in the industry before, which transforms the New Superb from a saloon to a hatch at the touch of a button. Robert Hazelwood, Škoda’s Brand Director, comments: “The New Superb is our most ambitious car to date and testimony to our brand’s confidence in the competitive upper medium market. It combines value for money, interior space and engineering solutions designed with the customer in mind in a fantastic package. “Beautifully designed both inside and out, the new Superb is a great choice for retail and fleet buyers. More importantly, it is a car prepared for the challenges posed by the current economic climate, reinforcing Škoda’s position as the manufacturer of happy drivers.” To book a test drive, please contact our Platinum Škoda dealership on 01225 485400 or visit www.platinumskoda.co.uk for more information.
Renault Unveil Eagerly Awaited New Megane
Poised to lay down the gauntlet to its lower-medium rivals, including the next-generation VW Golf, one of this year’s most eagerly-awaited new models, New Mégane, has arrived. Previewed for the first time in five-door form, in the lead-up to its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October, the successor to one of Europe’s best-selling cars ushers in a new era of styling, handling and quality. Retaining characterful styling, New Renault Mégane's is immediately eye-catching. Its dynamic, elegant styling has been honed to appeal to car enthusiasts, with several cues taken from the world of sport. New Renault Mégane is robust, too, with the accent very much on the fit and finish of its panels, as well as on that of the materials used in its construction. The new model has also benefited from the progress that has been achieved across the Renault range in reliability and durability. New Renault Mégane's interior is extensively equipped with practical, comfort-enhancing features. These include combined analogue/digital instruments incorporating a new, easier-to-read colour-coded cruise control/speed limiter interface. The list continues with a host of equipment normally associated with a higher segment, such as hands-free entry and ignition, automatic locking as the driver walks away from the car, Carminat Bluetooth® CD navigation system and custom-developed audio system (3D Sound by Arkamys®). New Renault Mégane has been designed to offer best-in-class safety too. Among its features will be double side impact sensors and dual-chamber airbags as seen on Laguna III, aimed at minimising the consequences of a side-on collision. It is also a socially responsible car which is 95 per cent end-of-life recoverable by weight, while almost 12 per cent of the plastics it contains are sourced from recycling, equivalent to an average of 22kg per car. share of more than a third, this segment has long been the biggest in Western Europe and makes a significant contribution to Renault's performance in terms of both volume and profitability. By 2010, the New Mégane family will include six different models, each of which will have its own distinct and assertive personality. These six models have been conceived essentially for customers in European markets and will be manufactured in Palencia (Spain) and Douai (France). Other models will be available in non-European markets equipped with specific technical solutions suited to local conditions. For almost two years, Renault's design and engineering teams focused their attention on three main areas of development, namely reinforcing the personality of each member of the Mégane line-up, ensuring a balanced offer in terms of performance and equipment, and targeting best-in-class positioning for all key features. New Renault Mégane, which goes on sale from November 2008, is the next car in the Renault Commitment 2009 plan and consequently benefits fully from the progress achieved in terms of quality on preceding models.
Renault Koleos Scores Five Euro NCAP Stars Renault Koleos is the tenth Renault model to obtain the maximum score of five stars in EuroNCAP crash tests. This result confirms the outstanding efficiency of the vehicle’s passive and active safety equipment. Reflecting all Renault’s expertise in safety, Koleos is a versatile 4x4 crossover that brings occupants the same peace of mind in the city, on the open road and motorway, and off road, notably through its Alliance-developed four-wheel drive system, which boosts active safety by correcting any loss in grip, redistributing torque between the front and rear axles ahead of electronic stability control activation. Renault’s approach for all its vehicles is based on real-life safety. The brand focuses on developing the most efficient technologies to “prevent, correct and protect”, as well as on raising the awareness of road users. Koleos is the tenth Renault model to obtain the maximum five-star score in adult protection1. Koleos is one of only four models out of 17 tested in the small off-road 4x4 category to achieve the maximum five-star EuroNCAP rating. Safety is a fundamental feature of all Renault vehicles. Renault Koleos was developed to have outstanding levels of both active and passive safety. Koleos benefits from Renault’s long-standing work in real-life accident analysis. In terms of passive safety, its body structure features programmed crumple zones at the front and the back. The cabin was designed as a real survival cell for passengers in the event of an accident. Renault Koleos also boasts a comprehensive range of equipment for passenger protection, including six airbags (of which two are front airbags), seatbelts with force limiters in the front and rear side seats and pretensioners in the front seats, along with Isofix anchor points for attaching child seats in the outer rear seats. The headrests have a carefully worked ergonomic design that offers maximum protection against whiplash in the event of rear impact. On the active safety front, Renault Koleos has a stiff chassis and, to assist drivers in emergency braking, ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist (EBA) fitted as standard. Koleos’ four-wheel drive system also makes a significant contribution to active safety by correcting any loss in grip. Developed by the Alliance and first featured on the New Nissan X-Trail, the system is used to immediately correct the slightest sign of understeer or oversteer by redistributing torque between the front and rear axles, even before the activation of electronic stability control (ESP). Renault’s overarching, four-fold approach to safety
Renault’s EuroNCAP results: The only manufacturer to have obtained the five-star maximum 10 times. 30/07/08
When you’re running a small business, unexpected bills can make a serious dent in your profits. And when your van is essential to your work, the last thing you need is an unexpected service bill eating into your income. Luckily, anyone who buys a new Vauxhall Commercial Vehicle between now and What’s more, the free servicing offer is running in conjunction with a zero per cent finance offer over three years, subject to a 20 per cent deposit, thus helping to keep business running costs even lower. The offers also both apply to Vauxhall’s comprehensive core conversion line-up, meaning whatever you do for a living; chances are the company has a vehicle to suit. But hurry – the special offer is strictly limited and applies only to private customers or small fleets of less than 25 vehicles, who place their orders before 2 October, 2008. More details are available from your local Platinum Vauxhall retailer, or by visiting www.platinumvauxhall.co.uk
New Insignia Storms UK Mid-Size Sector With Sub-£16K Entry Price
Vauxhall launched its new Insignia today at the British International Motor Show with an entry price of £15,935 for the 1.8-litre Exclusiv. But even this model comes with high levels of equipment, including ESP, automatic headlights, an electric driver’s seat height adjuster and electrically adjustable four-way lumbar support. Cruise control is also standard on this model, along with single-zone climate control, front, side and curtain airbags, Isofix and ABS. The 1.8 ECOTEC petrol engine found in the entry level car, producing 140PS and 175Nm of torque, is one of five engines available in the Insignia range, each of which meets Euro 5 emissions standards. It’s joined by two other petrol units – a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and a 2.8-litre turbocharged V6 – and two new 2.0-litre diesels with either 130 or 160PS. The 2.0CDTi 130PS Exclusiv is the entry level diesel model, costing £16,935. Bold, dynamic design comes as standard on all Insignias, as well as a host of new technology that provides more safety and improved dynamics for drivers. Innovative features, such as the Front Camera System, which reads traffic signs and warns drivers if they veer out of their lane, joins next-gen AFL lighting and a standard-on-all-models heated windscreen wash system – known as ‘Hot Shot’. Insignia is also available with Vauxhall’s clever FlexRide chassis and the choice of either front- or all-wheel drive. For more information on the New Insignia, speak to our sales department who will be happy to help.
The new BMW 3 Series
Following its March 2005 launch, when it was hailed as offering a new level of achievement for the compact executive segment, BMW’s class-leading, and most popular, car has just raised the bar again. The BMW 3 Series has been revised for September and now features a new interior and exterior appearance to combine with its benchmark powertrains and continued unrivalled driving dynamics. The model also comes with all of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies for best-in-class economy and emissions.
Data supplied by EMMOX Carcost Ltd
Data supplied by EMMOX Carcost Ltd
*Electronically-limited.
*Electronically-limited. Renault Koleos On Sale Now
Renault’s new 4x4 crossover, Koleos, has arrived on UK shores and is on sale now. Boasting MPV levels of comfort and interior space combined with robust exterior styling and genuine off-road ability, Koleos’ class-leading standard equipment puts its rivals in the shade. Koleos is offered with a choice of two diesel 2.0-litre Alliance engines, the dCi 150 and the dCi 175. Unusually for a 4x4 crossover, Koleos dCi 150 is available with six-speed gearbox and in manual or automatic transmission. Prices for Koleos start at £17,995 for the Dynamique dCi 150 4x2, rising to £24,695 for the Privilège dCi 175 4x4. As well as the four-wheel drive, Koleos will also be available in two-wheel drive form appealing to those who enjoy its distinctive, crossover looks and spacious MPV-like versatility complete with high visibility driving position, but have no need to use the vehicle off-road. Koleos sets the benchmark for standard equipment For example, when comparing the specification of a Koleos Privilège dCi 150 4x4 to the Ford Kuga Titanium, a customer opting for the Koleos will receive over £3,000 worth of equipment as standard. Features such as heated seats, parking sensors and leather upholstery are expensive options on Kuga. When comparing the same Koleos with the Tiguan Escape, the Koleos customer advantage is even larger at over £5,000 worth of equipment coming as standard on the Koleos. Climate control, cruise control, Bi-Xenon headlamps, 3D colour Satellite Navigation, leather upholstery and Bluetooth are only offered as options on Tiguan whereas they are standard on Koleos Privilège. This means a customer would pay a total price of £28,900 for the VW as opposed to £23,495 for Koleos (£23,855 if metallic paint is chosen). This proves Koleos may be new on the scene, but it is already the 4x4 crossover to beat in terms of offering customers an affordable, well-equipped, comfortable, spacious and genuine off-road capable car. Practical and innovative features Off-road, Koleos excels with innovative features such as Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control system, the ‘all mode 4x4i’ system developed by Nissan for the X-Trail (which shares the same platform with Koleos), and approach and departure angles of 27 and 31 degrees respectively. Koleos’ 3-D colour navigation system has a number of specific off-road features, including an altimeter and barometer. The vehicle’s angle of inclination, the slope and an altitude graph are equally displayed, while a digital compass takes the stress out of finding the correct heading when there are no signposts to be seen. The ‘Super-Fold’ system, introduced on Laguna Sport Tourer, enables the 60/40 split-rear seat base to tip up and backrest fold down all by the flick of one lever in the boot. With the rear seat in the folded position, the boot floor becomes entirely flat to further facilitate loading. Peace of mind assured CO² emissions for Koleos range between 191 and 221 g/km, with Koleos versions falling into Band F for CO² emissions. Insurance groups for Koleos range between a competitive 10E for the Dynamique versions and 11E for the Privilège models. Prices Version Price Koleos – on sale from 4th July Customers can find out more information by visiting www.platinumrenault.co.uk or visit one of our Platinum Renault dealerships The New BMW 7 Series
The launch of the fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series sets a new benchmark in automotive luxury, technical innovation and class-leading driving dynamics, combined with emissions reducing and fuel saving technology.
* Electronically-limited.
Refurbishment Work At Platinum Renault In Bath Work has commenced on an extensive refurbishment programme at Platinum Renault in Bath. The work is designed to bring the facility up to the latest standards of automotive retailing which includes the new Renault corporate identity. The dealership will also house the Skoda franchise alongside the existing Renault brand. The company would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by the work, but wish to make clear that the business is fully open and operational during this period, with customers able to visit the dealership for both sales and aftersales as per normal. The work is scheduled for completion during early August. The Platinum Renault team look forward to welcoming customers to the dealership. For further information on Platinum Renault, please visit www.platinumrenault.co.uk
Renrod Ltd Joins Wiltshire Wildlife Trust as a Corporate Member The Renrod Group, incorporating Platinum, Causeway Saab and Wellsway have joined the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust as a corporate member. The trust maintains a portfolio of nature reserves in the county and is actively engaged in fundraising and scientific studies. It has a large membership of circa 20,000, mostly consisting of locally based individuals. The group looks forward to an ongoing working relationship, and to assist them in their vital conservation work. Information about the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust can be found at www.wiltshirewildlife.org New Platinum Renault Website Goes Live The new Platinum Renault website is now live on the internet. It represents a comprehensive resource for the business and is designed according to the highest standards of dealership and motor trade websites. It will be updated on a regular basis with news, latest developments, offers, events, career vacancies and much more. To view the site, please visit....
New Tigra Gains Material Coverage Tigra Sport Rouge – Hot and Exciting
Hot off the catwalk the stylish Sport Rouge is the latest edition to the Tigra range featuring a dynamic new change to the drop top roof. The new Sport Rouge replaces the Sport model, and features a whole host of standard equipment from only £15,705. Perhaps the most eye-catching feature is its roof which is now covered in a stylish Bordeaux Red coloured fabric. Designed to appeal to those who love the look of a fabric soft top but who also want the convenience, security and safety of a hard top, the Sport Rouge offers the best of both worlds. As with all Tigras, the new-look roof can be raised or lowered in just 20 seconds. This edition is available in four body colours - Metro Blue, Star Silver, Flame Red or Black Sapphire - and comes as standard with central locking, electrically adjustable door mirrors, CD player and steering wheel mounted controls. Also standard are 16” alloy wheels, an aux-in MP3 player jack and Sports seats. If that’s not enough you can upgrade to a choice of 17 inch alloy wheels, a full leather pack and rear parking sensors, or even a stylish VXR pack to make your car really stand out from the crowd. Offered with a choice of three engines – the nippy 1.4 litre and 1.8 litre petrols, and the economical 1.3 diesel – prices range from £15,705 to £17,195. Order from any of our Platinum Vauxhall dealerships now. The perfect way to banish those winter blues. Nissan Enjoys The Winning Habit Listen carefully and you might just hear the groaning of trophy cabinets back at Nissan HQ – that’s because the company has just picked up another three industry awards proving that when it comes to designing products oozing with customer desirability, Nissan knows how to hit the right spot. Qashqai, the innovative compact crossover, added to its tally of seven honours so far by grabbing Best Medium Family Car in the What Diesel Car Of The Year awards, beating off stiff competition from Ford’s Focus and Hyundai’s i30. And the same judging panel, which included a number of respected independent journalists among its ranks, chose the Navara, up against rivals such as the Mitsubishi L200 and Toyota Hilux, for the Best Pickup accolade. “Nissan shook up the sector with the Qashqai, proving that family transport need not be boring transport,” explains What Diesel magazine editor Ian Robertson, “while the Navara manages to perfectly balance the fine line between dependable workhorse and stylishness.” That’s a view endorsed by Professional Van & Light Truck magazine which also voted Navara Best Pickup at its traditional Commercial Vehicle Show awards dinner. “It’s a very competitive sector of the market and any pickup these days needs to be a compromise between a working truck and a leisure vehicle,” said PV< editor John Fife. “As a good, comfortable all-rounder, the Navara achieves that blend better than the competition. Its ride quality and passenger comfort are very good, yet it can still carry over a tonne in the back. We also very much like the 171 PS diesel engine and its effortless towing ability.” The awards reflect burgeoning sales of both Nissan models. Qashqai has been a huge success with over 25,000 units sold since launching in the UK just over a year ago, while in the Pickup market, the Navara continues to be the number one best seller, continuing its strong performance of 2007 in what is a very competitive marketplace. The British-built Qashqai’s strong, distinctive design sits between a traditional hatchback style and a more robust elevated SUV shape and appeals to customers looking for something different. That’s backed up by genuine driving enjoyment, great practicality and the option of four-wheel drive for those who want its added security. Qashqai’s desirability will be strengthened still further when it is joined by Qashqai+2, a new seven-seat version, in October. Offering great versatility, the Navara King Cab and Double Cab models bridge the gap between SUV-like comfort and the functional attributes of an authentic pickup. Its tried and tested four-wheel drive system and practical load area have made it as much a favourite with the farming and construction industries as with those who use it solely for their leisure pursuits.
16/04/08 The Scottish Motoring Writers’ Small Car of the Year 2007 is proving that it’s the one to beat in 2008 too. The Škoda Fabia is seeing record levels of sales – up to 50 orders a day – making it the small car which just keeps getting bigger. The hatchback which was re-launched last year has prompted never before seen take-up thanks to its smart styling and spacious interior. Its capturing looks have clearly captured the imagination of the Scottish people, who love its sporty body and distinctive grille. Alastair Kerr, Operations Manager for Škoda in Scotland, comments: “These sales figures for 2008 so far represent a fantastic achievement for Škoda. It’s also great to see that a car which proved so popular with Scottish critics is just as popular with the public. “The Fabia is a real all-rounder and with four petrol and three diesel engines to choose from as well as tonnes of leg and head room and a number of safety features as standard, it appeals to a wide range of age groups and lifestyles.” But the Fabia is now bigger in more ways than one, with the recent launch of the new Fabia Estate, which combines the contemporary design of the hatchback with even more space. Škoda has once again lived up to its reputation of offering that ‘extra bit of car’ by extending the Fabia Estate’s dimensions to ensure it’s roomier than ever, with an impressive 1,460 litre (seats folded) loading area. “Hopefully the Estate will replicate the success of the hatchback in terms of orders,” Alastair continues, “It’s certainly the ideal choice for a growing family, especially those looking to keep costs to a minimum.” Going Two Better Nissan Qashqai+2 Unveiled As market rivals start to catch up with the segment defining Qashqai, Nissan has already moved the goalposts: the top selling compact Crossover has expanded its offer with a seven-seat version. Called Qashqai+2, the newest Nissan builds on the success of the original Qashqai by adding space and versatility to create the first Family Crossover. “Qashqai has become an instant success in Europe. Its distinctive style appeals to buyers seeking something different: but that’s only part of the story. Dynamic design, generous interior space, top quality materials and genuine driving enjoyment all contribute to make Qashqai a huge European success. Now comes the seven-seat Qashqai+2 to add a new dimension to the range… and to ensure Nissan continues to offer something no other manufacturer in the market segment can match,” states Simon Thomas, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Nissan Europe. Qashqai+2 at a glance
Not content with breaking sales records, Nissan’s Qashqai – the segment defining compact Crossover – is ready to break new boundaries. With the original version notching-up over 170,000 European sales since launch, Qashqai will soon be joined by a new seven-seat version. Called Qashqai+2, the new model is seen by Nissan as the first Crossover for busy, active families and with the imminent arrival of the second generation Murano, helps to extend Nissan’s Crossover offering to three distinctive models. Sales in Europe will begin in October. Qashqai+2 customers will be looking for a car which has the space, convenience and utility of a traditional MPV, but who want a more attractive, sophisticated design. Nissan’s research shows that customers of the existing Qashqai are clearly attracted to it by its design – three-quarters are new to Nissan – and this is a pattern that will continue with Qashqai+2. Those customers are not attracted to the existing people carriers with three rows. And at the same time, Nissan’s research shows that an increasing number of customers in this area of the market are not interested in ‘family’ SUVs, with a third row of seats. They are perceived as too big and too boxy for their needs. It is against this background that Nissan’s European Product Planning team identified a pool of potential customers who are looking for a stylish yet practical family car. Qashqai+2 continues the Crossover theme so successfully pioneered by Qashqai, by sitting in between two well established segments of the market and drawing customers who aren’t quite satisfied by either of those traditional options. The results of early Qashqai+2 customer clinics showed that potential customers perceived it as being more family orientated, offering more independence, being ideal for going on family holidays and offering more fun than traditional choices. They also recognised its increased practicality, space and versatility, as well as being more attractive and elegant than its alternatives. Where Qashqai generally attracts buyers who have no kids or just one kid, or whose kids have already left the nest, Qashqai+2 will offer the rational advantages of a practical family car, with elements such as stylish design, premium interior quality and an engaging driving experience to satisfy the more emotional side of the buying equation. Like the multi award-winning original, Qashqai+2 has been designed and engineered in Europe and will be built at Nissan’s highly productive plant in Sunderland, in the UK. In January this year, the plant – which produced a record 353,000 vehicle in 2007 – transferred production of Qashqai models built for export to Japan to the company’s Kyushu plant in Japan to free extra production capacity for Europe. Furthermore, in June a third shift will be added to meet demand for surging sales. “The arrival of Qashqai+2 will broaden the appeal of the range still further, so the third shift at Sunderland is absolutely vital if we are to keep up with the high demand for the model,” says, Simon Thomas. Design & Packaging With a wheelbase extended by 135 mm – taking it to 2,765 mm – the overall length of Qashqai+2 has risen to 4,526 mm, an increase of 211 mm over the five-seat version. To ensure there’s ample headroom in the third set of seats, the roofline has been lengthened and re-profiled at the rear of the vehicle, adding 38 mm to the overall height and taking it to 1,643 mm. Headroom in the front and middle row of seats has increased by 16 mm and 10 mm respectively, while knee room in the middle row has improved by 23 mm. At the same time, both front and rear doors have been restyled: the window frames of the front door are squarer in line with the re-profiled roofline, while the rear pair are completely new – longer and also with squarer window frames. Other styling changes include larger side windows at the rear of the vehicle to provide a light and airy environment for occupants of the third row of seats. Further differentiation between five and seven-seat versions is provided by a new tailgate with a deeper rear window and revised bumper profile at the rear and a sleek new grille, exclusive to Qashqai+2, at the front. Another exterior feature found as standard on Qashqai+2 is a huge panoramic glass roof to give the same light, airy feeling that is so popular with customers on the existing Qashqai. The fixed roof is 140 mm longer than the equivalent sunroof offered on Qashqai and has a one-touch electric operated sunshade. Additionally, Qashqai+2 has roof rails as standard adding a premium feel to its silhouette, while darkened privacy glass for all windows behind the front doors is standard on all versions. Styling aside, the nature of the new model means much of the engineering and development work has been concentrated on the rear of the car where the aim has been to make it as flexible, practical and convenient as possible for passengers. Lengthening the rear doors has improved ingress to the passenger compartment while access to the rearmost pair of seats is further eased by revisions to the middle bench. As well as having a folding backrest, the bench now slides fore and aft to provide walk-in access to the back row. As well as moving through a total of 100 mm, the middle bench seat now has a three way folding operation on a 40/20/40 split for added modularity. The five-seat version splits on a 60/40 basis. The backrest also reclines and has no fewer than nine adjustment positions over a range from 10 deg to 25 deg of inclination. Three Row Versatility The addition of a third row of seats allows families the option of transforming their Qashqai+2 into a spacious family car into the ‘kids bus’, for those busy days out playing sport or weekends away which can be a logistical nightmare for parents, worried about whether the family, kids and their friends, as well as all their baggage will fit. When folded away, there’s a large flat loading area left behind which provides almost 500 litres of potential luggage capacity, an increase of 90 litres over Qashqai. The new rear door and revised interior panels mean the loading height has been reduced by 13 mm to 770 mm while, at 1186 mm, the opening width is a remarkable 224 mm wider. Unlike many seven-seat vehicles, Qashqai+2 has a full depth roller-blind style tonneau cover. With the rearmost seats folded it can be used conventionally but if the third set of seats are to be occupied, it can be removed and stowed in a special compartment under the boot floor. Like the extra pair of seats, therefore, the tonneau can remain in the vehicle at all times. The lid of the underfloor stowage area, meanwhile, can also double as a cargo divider so fragile shopping – eggs or bottles for example – can be safely loaded where it won’t be damaged by heavier items. The load area is set off by a stylish stainless steel kick plate which offers protection to the leading edge of the boot floor when loading heavy items. Ride & Handling A fully independent multi-link rear suspension has been used for precise handling and high-speed stability. Attached to the vehicle via a rigid rear subframe to keep unwanted noise and vibrations to a minimum, the compact assembly features an aluminium rear upper link to reduce weight: the saving is in the region of 4 kg. The extra length and equipment found in Qashqai+2 has raised the overall weight of the vehicle by approximately 100 kg. Suspension settings have been revised to take account of the extra weight, while steering assistance – all Qashqai models use electric power steering – has also been retuned. All-Mode Safety Developed by Nissan, the ALL-MODE system – which is available on 2.0-litre diesel and petrol models – allows secure and relaxed driving with advanced electronics taking care of all traction needs, ensuring that Qashqai+2 has grip at all times no matter how severe the conditions. Unlike some other automatic four-wheel drive systems, ALL-MODE uses advanced electronics rather than hydraulic pumps to ensure drive is transferred between wheels and axles the instant the need arises. The system has three modes, selected via a switch on the centre console. In two-wheel drive mode, the system is permanently set in front-wheel drive, ideal for fine weather on-road use. When the Lock setting is pushed, however, the system switches to permanent four-wheel drive mode with drive split 57:43 front to rear. The most practical mode, however, is ‘select-and-forget’ Auto, in which the system is left to its own devices. Sensors linking the engine’s ECU with the four-wheel drive and ABS controller constantly monitor wheel slippage and automatically send signals to the electromagnetic centre clutch mounted just ahead of the rear axle to apportion torque correctly. Left in Auto, the system will automatically compensate for unexpected slippery conditions on-road, such as wet leaves in autumn, early morning winter ice or loose gravel at any time of the year. ALL-MODE is inextricably linked to Bosch’s eighth generation Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Using sensors linked to the brakes, steering, wheels and the body itself, ESP constantly monitors the way the car is being driven. In its customer research, Nissan found clearly that existing Qashqai owners who have opted for the ALL-MODE versions enjoy the feeling of confidence and security that the discreet, unobtrusive all-wheel drive system gives them when driving in marginal conditions. Given its family orientation, customers will appreciate the availability of ALL-MODE on Qashqai+2 thanks to the reassurance it will offer in almost all road conditions that the driver and occupants are likely to find themselves in. From the steering angle and wheel speeds, ESP calculates what manoeuvres the driver intends to perform and from signals from the yaw-rate and lateral acceleration sensors ESP recognises whether the vehicle might skid off course. In an emergency ESP reacts swiftly, and by selectively applying the brakes at each wheel ESP ‘steers’ the vehicle in the desired direction. Qashqai+2 has other electronic control systems, including cornering brake control (CBC) and enhanced understeer control (EUC) in which the system applies the brakes to all four wheels to reduce excessive understeer. Hydraulic fade compensation (HFC) prevents brake fade after a period of heavy brake usage. The braking system is essentially unchanged from Qashqai, though the adoption of standard 17-inch alloy wheels on 2.0-litre versions has permitted the fitment of larger rear brakes. The Running Gear Top of the petrol range is another all-aluminium 16-valve design, this one displacing 1997 cc and developing 140 PS (103 kW) and 200 Nm of torque. Some 90 per cent of that torque is available from 2000 rpm providing the accelerative ‘punch’ more usually expected in larger engines. Almost as compact as the 1.6 engine, among its key design features is a notable reduction in internal friction. A mirror-like finishing technique is applied to the surfaces of the crankshaft pin journal and the cam lobe journal and to a new machining method that ensures truly circular bores is used: this procedure is common practice in the machining of bores of racing engines but is seldom used in volume production engines. The 2.0 dCi is equipped with a Bosch piezoelectric-controlled injection system to develop 150 PS (110 kW) and 320 Nm of torque. Piezoelectric technology gives fast, very precise control allowing a ‘five squirt’ injection cycle: two pre-squirts, one main squirt and two post-squirts. The pre-squirts improve engine acoustics by minimising the characteristic diesel clatter. The post-squirts sustain the main injection combustion, to burn off soot and thus bring down pollutant emissions before the exhaust gases have even left the combustion chamber. Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) produces a controlled temperature rise in the combustion chamber to reduce pollutant emission levels (NOx) and thus enhance the engine’s overall environment performance. The 2.0-litre diesel engine is also equipped as standard with a DPF. Transmission options include a five-speed manual (1.6-litre petrol), six-speed manual (2.0 petrol and both diesels), six-speed automatic (4WD 2.0 dCi) and, uniquely in its class, a highly efficient CVT transmission option on the 4WD 2.0-litre petrol offering a choice between ‘stepless’ changes or a manual over-ride with six fixed ratios. Equipment Depending on the version, standard equipment includes automatic lighting, automatic wipers, speed sensitive door locking, cruise control, privacy glass, electric windows, parking sensors, 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels and Nissan’s Intelligent Key. Manual or automatic air conditioning incorporates mild flow ventilation while to provide sufficient airflow for the rearmost passengers, a larger compressor is fitted. Subtle interior mood lighting is available, while all models benefit from ample storage opportunities, including an under seat drawer, large glovebox and door pockets. Also standard are the full-length panoramic glass roof and roof rails. All audio systems – a single disc CD/radio, an in-dash six disc changer/radio or a full navigation system with in-dash six disc CD autochanger – incorporate Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone integration allowing remote operation of the phone and caller ID display. The audio system also has a standard auxiliary input connection for MP3 players and other external audio devices. Qashqai+2 is equipped with six airbags (front, side and curtain), seat belt pretensioners in the front and active headrests. Popular options include embossed leather trim and the advanced satellite navigation system incorporating a seven-inch full colour display (which doubles as the display for the rear parking camera) and voice recognition. “Qashqai+2 adds a new dimension to the range and makes it even more versatile than the original. It will appeal not just to larger families, but also to anyone who appreciates its distinctive looks and commanding seating position as well as its extra space and flexibility,” says Pierre Loing, Vice President, Product Planning, Nissan Europe. “While some sales will come from current or potential Qashqai owners, we are confident the majority will be conquest sales from owners currently stuck with a conventional compact MPV: they appreciate the style and dynamism of the original Qashqai but need the extra seats of an MPV… no matter how dull it might be. With Qashqai+2 they can now have the best of both worlds.” For more information on the Nissan Qashqai, call into any of our Platinum Nissan showrooms and speak to our Sales team. Auris Soars into Spring With New SR And TR Auris is evolving to meet the needs and preferences of even more motorists with two new grades joining the line-up this spring. SR follows the lead of the flagship SR180 to deliver eye-catching sports styling and specification within an even more accessible price range New Auris SR The SR grade moves Auris right to the heart of the “mild sports” market, a fast growing niche that already accounts for more than one third of UK new car sales in the C-segment. The new versions do more than just look good, benefiting from lowered sports suspension and riding on 17-inch alloy wheels, both from Toyota Motorsport. Other stand-out features provided as standard include a Toyota Motorsport rear spoiler and dark-tinted privacy glass – items shared with the SR180. They also come equipped with nine airbags, climate control air conditioning, leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, front fog lamps, six-speaker sound system and body colour-matched door handles and mirrors. The SR is on sale now, in three and five-door body styles priced from £14,495. That represents excellent value to the customer, who gains an additional £1,495 of equipment and styling features at a price that is just £690 greater than that of the equivalent T3 model. Revised Auris TR Auris Grade Structure
Small emissions once again make MINI a big winner Fleet News has become the latest media outlet to nominate MINI as a green winner. In the publication’s 20th Annual Awards ceremony, MINI was named Best Small Car 2008 thanks to the introduction of new fuel-saving technologies and amazingly strong residual values. Cost-conscious, practical and desirable motoring topped the awards criteria. The Fleet News panel* cited the new Clubman model as key to the appeal of MINI for business car drivers, with one judge claiming: “There is no other car in the sector that drivers would like to have more.” MINI’s new range of Hatch and Clubman models shot to prominence in 2007 thanks to technologies based on BMW’s EfficientDynamics systems. With carbon emissions-based taxation a key factor in this week’s Budget announcement, many MINI owners could now actually find themselves in a stronger financial position. Emitting just 104 and 109g/km CO2 respectively, the MINI Cooper D Hatch and Clubman models will be exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty as of 01 April 2009 under the Budget ruling. This follows earlier news from Transport for London that from October 2008, cars emitting less than 120g/km CO2 will be exempt from congestion charging. Company car tax thresholds have also been revised and the Cooper D derivatives are again winners, thanks to the income tax rate cut and reduced 13 per cent taxation on diesel cars emitting less than 120g/km CO2. The Fleet News Environmental Award was claimed by BMW Group. This award recognises the fleet industry’s commitment to reducing its impact on the environment. EfficientDynamics developments, available across BMW and MINI products, positioned BMW Group as the clear winner in a hard-fought category. 22 BMW derivatives and 5 MINI models now emit less than 140g/km CO2. From April 2009 every one of these sub-140g/km cars will fall in to VED band E or lower, meaning owners will then pay a maximum of £115 for their annual road fund licence. Renault’s First 4x4 Crossover, Koleos, Makes World Debut in Geneva Making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, Koleos, Renault’s first 4x4 crossover, is ideal for escaping the everyday routine, comfortable, easy to drive and boasts genuine off-road ability. It has been designed to be versatile too, offering the same reassuring drive when motoring in and around town, on open roads and motorways, as it does when it is taken off the beaten track. At the same time, Koleos delivers the same levels of comfort expected in a hatchback, as well as cabin space worthy of a compact MPV. Designed by Renault, developed by Nissan and manufactured in Renault Samsung Motors' Busan plant in Korea, Koleos is the fruit of extremely close collaboration between teams from each of these Renault-Nissan Alliance brands. The launch of Koleos marks a decisive step in the brand's development, not only in Europe but across the world. The release of its first 4x4 crossover is a sure sign that Renault has the capacity to take its own genuine stance and completely fresh approach in segments from which it has traditionally been absent. Koleos offers a unique standard of safety and comfort, a parameter that has become a recognised Renault hallmark which is not only clear for all to see but also highly affordable The release of Koleos sees Renault take the wraps off its first-ever 4x4 crossover, a vehicle designed for getting away from it all, combining an efficient all-wheel drive chassis, the dynamic lines of hatchback and the cabin space of an MPV. Renault has made sure that Koleos has all the necessary genes to ensure that all passengers travel first class and that the new car is easy to use. The seating and suspension provide a high standard of comfort and the driver benefits from outstanding forward visibility thanks to the low-mounted dashboard, while Koleos' split-opening tailgate allows for simple loading. Koleos, the easy-to-use crossover The length and width of Koleos are 4.52m and 1.85m respectively and these contained dimensions ensure that it copes as effortlessly with city motoring as it does when taken off the beaten track. Indeed, despite the presence of styling cues from the world of 4x4s, Koleos is a crossover that offers a successful blend of dynamic and balanced lines. Meanwhile, in addition to all-terrain attributes like high ground clearance and skid-plates, the impression of ruggedness exuded by Koleos gives it a reassuring feel. The cabin is very simple to use. The practical dashboard design and development logic behind the easy-to-operate controls allow drivers to swiftly familiarise themselves with the layout, while use of the navigation, radio, heating and climate controls is intended to be intuitive. Controls for the navigation system, hands-free telephone, audio system and automatic parking brake are all positioned either on the steering wheel or within easy reach of the driver. Information relating to the navigation system and radio is displayed centrally on the upper part of the dashboard to make sure that it is both clearly legible for the driver and easy to read for other occupants. A raft of equipment aimed at taking the stress out of motoring underpins how effortlessly Koleos fits into the Renault family. Such features include the hands-free card and keyless starting functions, automatic headlamp and wiper activation, cruise control and speed limiter, while the controls for the electric windows, adjustment of the exterior mirrors and central locking are all located on the driver's door. The cabin itself couldn't be more driver-friendly. Careful attention has been paid to ensure that Koleos boasts segment-leading head-up visibility and forward field of vision, while its rearward angle of vision figures amongst the best available in the segment. The driving position can be precisely adjusted thanks to the adjustable seat and height-and reach-adjustable steering column. The sensation of being in control is felt as soon as the driver settles behind the wheel of Koleos. The power steering is precise, progressive, and accurately feeds back information from the road. Despite its higher ground clearance, Koleos handles like a hatchback thanks to its chassis which was purposely developed to provide an optimal balance between comfort and handling, both of which are of a remarkably high standard. Special attention was paid to cornering performance with the intention of curbing body-roll which can often be a feature of this type of car. Outstanding versatility The MacPherson-type front suspension is combined with the fully-independent multilink rear suspension seen on the New Nissan X-Trail. This set-up guarantees comfort and directional stability in all situations, while the dampers and springs have been tuned to match Koleos' specific dimensions and contribute to the targeted balance between comfort and handling. Ground clearance of 188mm and approach and departure angles of 27 and 31 degrees respectively are further illustrations of Koleos' off-road credentials. Koleos is the first Renault model to feature four-wheel drive from launch. The torque split between the front and rear is automatically calculated as a function of available grip. In normal conditions, torque is delivered to the front wheels only. However, should less grip become available up to 50 per cent of torque is transferred to the rear. This front-rear split is ensured by an electronic coupler and controlled by the latest-generation 'All mode 4x4-i' system developed by Nissan for New X-Trail. This system, which is designed to optimise traction in all road conditions, is not only acclaimed for its efficiency but also contributes to Koleos' exceptional off-road ability. The same all-wheel drive management system also contributes to the vehicle's active safety performance. The instant it detects even a small amount of oversteer or understeer, it immediately modifies the front-rear torque split, even before a possible intervention from the ESP kicks in. When grip is at a premium, such as on snow, mud, dirt or sand, the driver only has to flick a switch on the dashboard to electronically lock the transmission in 4x4 mode. Alternatively, should the driver so wish, the transmission can also be locked in two-wheel drive mode. Koleos is equipped with a Hill Start Assist function which can prove a particularly useful asset during everyday motoring. This system is automatically activated on gradients of more than 10 per cent with a view to preventing the vehicle slipping back down the slope. It also does away with the need for the driver to switch rapidly from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal which is inherent in most vehicles. Similarly, Koleos is equipped with a Hill Descent Control system for even safer off-road motoring. This function is activated via a button mounted on the central fascia and automatically holds the vehicle's speed at a maximum of 4mph on downhill gradients of 10 per cent or more without requiring the brakes to be used. This function works in reverse gear, too. Koleos' navigation system has a number of specific off-road features, including an altimeter and barometer. The vehicle's angle of inclination, the slope and an altitude graph are equally displayed, while a digital compass takes the stress out of finding the correct heading when there are no signposts about. Koleos will also be available in two-wheel drive form for those customers who are drawn by its adventurer, crossover looks but who have no call for all-wheel drive transmission. The practical, modular crossover Modularity-enhancing features include the ‘Super-fold’ system, like that of New Laguna Sport Tourer, which enables the 60/40-split rear seat to be folded simply by the flick of a switch in the boot. With the rear seat in the folded position, the boot floor becomes entirely flat to further facilitate loading. The boot volume of 450 litres with all five seats in the upright position extends to a very generous 1,380 litres once the rear seat has been folded. The available space can also be compartmented thanks to the presence of several hooks which enable the multipurpose retention net to be fixed in a choice of ways. In keeping with Koleos' calling as a vehicle designed for outdoor leisure activities, its rear seat backrest is equipped with a ski hatch. The back of the front passenger seat can also be folded down to either form a table or permit the transport of items of up to 2.60m in length. There are plenty of cubbies located all around the cabin. The dashboard includes a chilled, 15-litre glovebox, while the stowage space in the centre console is equipped with a removable bin. Extra space is provided in a drawer located beneath the front passenger seat, the lower front door bins will take a 500ml bottle and the lidded stowage space incorporated in the armrest is ideal for CDs. Rear passengers benefit from stowage space in the rear part of the centre console, plus two underfoot lidded compartments of five litres each. The rear door bins can house either a 500ml bottle or up to five CDs, while stowage space is available in the rear central armrest, too. Underfloor stowage in the boot provides a further 28 litres which takes the total stowage capacity of Renault Koleos to a vast 70 litres. Rear passenger’s benefit from folding tables complete with cup-holder incorporated in the backs of the front seats. Latest-generation powertrains The latest-generation 2.0 dCi Euro 4 diesel engine (M9R) is available in a choice of two power outputs, 150hp or 175hp. The engine has already been seen on Renault’s Mégane, Laguna and Espace, Nissan's Qashqai and New X-Trail and Renault Samsung Motors' QM5. It features the very latest diesel engine technologies, including piezoelectric injectors, common-rail 1,600-bar fuel injection, a water-cooled variable-geometry turbo and a periodic regeneration particulate filter. The 2.0 dCi engine is available with a broad, useful rev band, with peak torque of either 320 or 360Nm (depending on version) available from low engine speeds. The dCi 150 can be ordered for either the 4x2 or 4x4 versions and mated with either a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed automatic transmission. The 175hp version of the 2.0 dCi engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and all-wheel drive. Comfort and space worthy of an MPV The dCi engine represents a benchmark in the domain of minimising vibrations and noise thanks to its balancer shafts and twin-mass flywheel damper. Meanwhile, road noise has been slashed thanks to a package of special features and soundproofing, including an acoustic windscreen and engine subframe filtering, as well as the presence of soundproofing materials between the engine compartment and cabin, under the floor and in the wheel arches. These solutions combine to give Koleos a genuine edge on the acoustic comfort front. Koleos passengers are also pampered in terms of cabin space, including record headroom and kneeroom for front occupants in the SUV, 4x4 and crossover categories, while rear passengers benefit from a pleasing balance between vertical and transversal space. Given Koleos' contained overall length, access to both the front and rear seats is astonishingly easy, with ample room for legs and hips alike. The Renault range has long boasted the biggest panoramic opening sunroofs available on the market and the Koleos sunroof features a total, transparent glazed area of 0.75 square metres which is unmatched in the SUV and crossover market. For optimal thermal comfort, the high density-weave sunblind can be pulled shut to any position. The sunroof itself comes with an anti-pinch function and, thanks to the hands-free card, automatically closes if the driver walks away from the car. The combination of a brightly-lit cabin and the promise of wind-in-the-hair motoring with clear views of the sky overhead stand out as one of Renault Koleos' truly appealing features. To ensure first class travelling comfort for all occupants, Koleos is equipped with an automatic dual-zone heating and climate control system that incorporates specific vents for the rear seats. The driver and front passenger can consequently select the cabin temperature of their choice, while rear passengers, who also benefit from sunblinds, can adjust ventilation using the control located at the rear of the centre console. Music lovers will be won over by the comprehensive range of audio systems that are available for Koleos, including a top-end system developed by Bose®. Specifically tailored to the acoustic properties of the cabin, it comprises a digital amplifier, seven loudspeakers and a woofer. The outstanding hi-fi quality means that occupants are able to profit from their favourite music whether it is delivered by the radio, the six-CD/MP3-compatabile multi-changer or an external source such as an iPod® connected to the fascia-mounted jack plug. Driving pleasure is enhanced by an array of comfort-enhancing features, from the front and rear proximity sensors for easier parking to the automatic parking brake which is applied whenever the engine is switched off, and then automatically released when the engine is started. Koleos can also be equipped with a Carminat Navigation and Communication system incorporating three functions: a GPS navigation system with 7-inch, 16/9 screen and DVD atlas, a radio and six-CD multichanger and controls for a hands-free Bluetooth® telephone. The controls for these functions are located within easy reach on the centre console. For enhanced night-time vision, Koleos is available with bi-xenon headlamps and cornering lights. These additional lights illuminate the inside of corners, thereby permitting the driver to spot a possible hazard or obstacle much sooner. This feature vastly improves the field of vision in risk situations (junctions, corners) and consequently enhances night-time safety and driving comfort. Koleos: benefits from Alliance's extensive active and passive safety expertise The fact that Renault's range includes eight models that have been awarded the maximum five-star EuroNCAP crash test rating speaks volumes for the brand's expertise when it comes to passive safety. It goes without saying that Koleos has benefited from the years of extensive research that have gone into studying real-life accidents. Its very structure has been engineered to include programmed crumple zones both at the front and rear, while the design of the cabin's structure allows it to serve as a protective cell in the case of an accident. Furthermore, Koleos comes with a long list of equipment committed to optimising occupant protection, including six airbags (including two adaptive front airbags which adapt to the passenger's build), load limiters for the front and outer rear seat seatbelts, front seatbelt pretensioners and Isofix child seat anchorage for the outer rear seats. The dynamic lines of a hatchback with 4x4 styling cues "Koleos has a strong personality. In our programme, it is a unique model that stands out from its rivals thanks to its raked rear screen which is suggestive of propulsion," notes Renault's Director of Design, Patrick le Quement. The distinctive lines of its hatch form a movement that flows from the bottom of the rear window to converge on the logo which sits on a gloss black finish plaque. The cabin and driving environment are purposely intuitive and the interior design is based on a series of elegantly flowing curves. The bottom of the dashboard forms a wave-like line which gives the impression that the cowling is actually floating on the dashboard. The form of the centre console, which houses all of the vehicle's principal functions, contributes to an inescapable sense of well-being. This is further compounded by the quality of the materials selected for Koleos and by the careful attention that has been paid to the play and mating between panels and components. "The carefully-honed interior of Koleos is of a very high quality," observes Patrick le Quement. "Its graphic design is very pleasing, while special attention has been paid to perceived quality." For customers wishing to personalise their car, Renault has developed a range of accessories, some of which underpin the all-terrain calling of Koleos. A new-generation vehicle The presence of SUV-type vehicles can be observed in all segments, in the same way that MPVs spread to other categories in the late '90s. Indeed, the notion of segment is no longer clear-cut in the minds of customers. Today, SUVs account for five per cent of the total market worldwide compared with less than one per cent 15 years ago. The SUV/compact crossover market is constantly expanding in the top five Europe countries and strong growth in the past five years has seen all-makes sales double from 222,500 to 522,000 vehicles (see appendix). This trend can be observed across Europe: in a total market of approximately 15 million vehicles, the SUV/compact crossover category accounts for almost five per cent, with more than 700,000 vehicles of this type sold in 2007. The sector is extremely competitive, too, with 25 models available. The launch of Koleos, Company’s first 4x4 crossover, sees Renault complete its line-up with a new vehicle that benefits from the maturity and expertise of the market's leading players. European SUV/compact crossover customers come essentially from the C and D segments. The majority of them already own a vehicle of this type (25%), while 22% come from the D segment and 13% from the C segment. Former MPV owners account for eight per cent of SUV/compact crossover buyers. Koleos is a sign of the group's ongoing international expansion. The newcomer goes on sale in the UK in July and will be available in almost 40 countries on five continents by 2009. Full UK specifications and pricing will be revealed nearer the UK launch date. A unique industrial adventure The synergies afforded by the Alliance, such as the sharing of platforms and mechanical assemblies, and the prospect of increased sales in Korea ensured a first class financial context. The different roles were allocated as follows: Renault would work on the concept, design the vehicle, draw up a brief concerning performance and equipment and supply the diesel powerplants. Nissan would bring its 4x4 technology to the table, supply the petrol engines and take responsibility for validation. Finally, Renault Samsung Motors would ensure the production of Renault Koleos for the world market. The Alliance's C platform – which had been transformed into the C 4x4 platform by Nissan for its X-Trail and Rogue models – lent itself perfectly to the new crossover's volumes. Production of the vehicle in Korea rapidly emerged as the natural choice, given that SUV and crossovers are the predominant category in the country where they enjoy a market share of some 20 per cent. Meanwhile, the efficiency and flexibility of Renault Samsung Motors' Busan plant was a further parameter that argued in favour of using the Korean facility as the sole production site for Renault Koleos and a letter of intention was signed in March 2004. Koleos was destined to be Renault's first crossover, conceived and designed by Renault, developed by Nissan and built by Renault Samsung Motors. A team of Japanese engineers from Nissan was despatched to work alongside Renault's own design team at the Technocentre in Guyancourt, France, to validate the project's technical feasibility. The pre-contract milestone was rapidly reached and, in December 2004, the decision was taken to launch the development phase of the H45 project. A Renault project team specialising in the Renault-Nissan Alliance C platform was set up to serve as a small-scale interface and channel requests for information from the project teams at Nissan and Renault Samsung Motors. An equal parity, tripartite steering committee was consequently established and the programme chiefs from each of the three brands met regularly in France, Japan and Korea to arbitrate on the responses of Nissan's vehicle engineering department to the demands of Renault's brief. The following phase saw the project switch its base near Nissan's Atsugi engineering centre in Japan where designers from Renault and Renault Samsung Motors worked on finalising the exterior and interior design. The first Renault Koleos was born. The design freeze milestone was reached in July 2005 and the go-ahead was given for development of the H45 to begin. From the design freeze milestone to production sign-off in November 2007, 28 months of active collaboration saw the programme teams of all three brands focus on achieving the objectives set by Renault. The combination of the project's complexity and the tripartite relationship permitted new, increasingly streamlined practices to be put into place. To ensure that Renault Koleos benefited from the very best that the Renault-Nissan Alliance had to offer, arbitration was called for on several occasions, if only because customer demand has a tendency to differ from one continent to another, making it necessary to anticipate market trends on a global scale. Furthermore, although the operational methodologies employed at Renault and Nissan are converging, the two entities still have strong separate cultural identities and it was necessary to take their specificities into account. The bulk of the work that followed the contract milestone in October 2005 concerned the response of Nissan's vehicle engineering department to the product, performance and equipment demands formulated by Renault. The first prototype was produced in Japan at the beginning of 2006 in the Nissan pilot factory where the assembly processes and necessary tooling are developed before the production of a new vehicle can begin in the chosen factory. Koleos naturally followed the same path as the Nissan models based on the same platform – X-Trail and Rogue – and the same manufacturing processes were adopted. In November 2006, the first waves of physical prototypes marked the start of the H45 project's production phase. Renault Samsung Motors allocated a staff of 68 to work in Zama with Nissan's vehicle engineering department to draw up the standard operation sheets and optimise assembly procedures. In parallel, a test programme was put into place to validate the performance and reliability of Koleos in extreme conditions. A total of 1,750,000km was covered, either on location or on tests benches. Given the newcomer's broad spectrum of markets, including Russia, Korea, the Middle East and Australia, Koleos was put through its paces in the severest of conditions. The cold climate tests took place in Japan on the island of Hokkaido, while the hot weather programme was organised in Australia and Spain. Six months later, the vehicle arrived on the production line in Busan, Korea. This timeline enabled the necessary tooling for production start-up to be completed, while the operators themselves received nearly 50,000 hours of specific training. On November 5, 2007, the Busan factory was given the green light to begin the manufacture of QM5, the Korean version of the forthcoming Renault Koleos. A few months later, the first vehicles for the Korean market rolled off the line just as production of Koleos started in readiness for the model's release in Europe in June 2008. The Renault-Nissan Alliance: a performance power-house The performance of Nissan's engineering department, the synergies permitted by the Alliance and the flexibility of Renault Samsung Motors' production plant in Busan, Korea, made it possible to achieve considerable investment-related savings. Indeed, the total capital outlay was a highly competitive €391 million, below the initially targeted figure. Capital outlay was divided into: - engineering costs: €192 million, The engineering costs notably covered the work put in by Nissan to adapt to the requirements specified by Renault. The latter's particularly demanding brief stipulated that it would supply Nissan with the technical elements and mechanical assemblies required to develop the sort of features and functions specific to the Renault brand which its customers have come to expect and which can be found on vehicles throughout the range. These include the automatic parking brake as well as the 'magic handle' function of the hands-free card and the 'voir clair' ('clear view') demist function which Nissan succeeded in incorporating from the initial design phases. The carryover of Renault mechanical assemblies outweighed the expense of having to adapt them and enabled capital outlay to be kept to a minimum. Production-related investment at Busan notably went on improving work conditions and creating more ergonomic work-stations which are a pledge of quality and productivity. Koleos is the 11th of the 26 models that Renault has announced to fuel its growth. The launch of a 4x4 crossover sees Renault pursue its product offensive and complete its vehicle line-up with a model that marks a first in the history of the brand. In addition to the newcomer's proven 4x4 technology, Renault's brings its expertise in the realm of safety to the table, as well as a typically Renault approach to modularity and comfort to provide a spectrum of top-end functions and features of a level similar to those featured on New Laguna. From launch, Renault's first 4x4 crossover is targeting a place amongst the best in its class in terms of product and service quality, an undertaking which is backed up by the same three-year or 100,000 mile warranty that covers Renault's other upper-range vehicles. This approach forms part of a global strategy aimed at both promoting brand loyalty and winning over new customers to speed up Renault's presence on the international scene and develop the sale of top-end vehicles while at the same time consolidating its flagship values, namely comfort, intuitive design and modularity. For more information on the Renault Koleos contact any of our Platinum Renault dealerships. World Premiere of the New Toyota iQ KEY POINTS
Toyota has given the production design of the new iQ its world premiere at the Geneva motor show. First presented as the Concept Car iQ at the Frankfurt motor show last year, the new model will go into production late in 2008 with UK sales scheduled to start in spring 2009. The new iQ is a sophisticated car, delivering a refined mode of urban transport. Thanks to ingenious and revolutionary packaging, it measures less than three metres long, but has a flexible interior that allows up to three adults, plus a child or luggage, to travel in comfort. The name iQ represents what the car embodies: “i” stands for individuality, innovation and intelligence and “Q” for quality. DESIGN Its revolutionary packaging is achieved through six space-saving, interlinked engineering innovations that represent a break-through in Toyota’s vehicle development. “The iQ story started a few years ago when we at Toyota began thinking about the environmental impact of automobiles,” explained Kazuo Okamato, Executive Vice President in charge of Research and Development at Toyota Motor Corporation. “We concluded that, in order to ensure a sustainable future, there was a need for a radical change in vehicle packaging. We needed to create a breakthrough, away from the traditional belief that small is basic. Our answer is the Toyota iQ.” Robust and refined for the urban environment The exterior styling blends dynamism and stability: prominent crease lines define the high belt line, while the V-line of the A-pillar creates tension across the wheel arches. Smooth lines flow from the front bumpers, curve smoothly up through the front pillars to meet the roof and sweep back down towards the rear hatch where they are replaced by edgier, well-defined lines. The rear is defined by strong vertical lines, with bold lamp lenses cut into three segments by horizontal lines. At the front, smoked headlamp units are set deep into the bonnet and wings. Refined appeal is further reflected in the door mirrors with integrated turn indicators. Techno-organic Interior Styling The ultra-slim seatbacks are formed in a one-piece moulding that enhances iQ’s edgy feel, while also helping free up additional passenger space. A storage tray is concealed below the rear seat, another feature that does not sacrifice cabin space. For extra luggage room, the 50:50 split rear seats can be folded flat. TECHNOLOGY Achieving this milestone in vehicle development required a drastic change of mindset. The engineers have to reconsider the location of various components, rather than simply redesigning parts to a smaller size. The result is a breakthrough in “small yet spacious” packaging, which at the same time has been designed to meet Euro NCAP’s top five-star safety rating. iQ is 2,985mm long and 1,500mm high. Its compact ingenuity lies in its comparatively long, 2,000mm wheelbase. New differential saves engine compartment space Flat Under-floor Fuel Tank and Rear-angled Shock Absorbers A flat fuel tank has traditionally been considered difficult to engineer, because of the variance in fuel surface levels depending on the angle of the vehicle. Persistent engineering efforts to downsize and find the best position for functional parts have enabled such a tank to be developed, delivering significant space savings. Smaller heater/air conditioning unit As a result, the front passenger area can be moved forwards towards the base of the windscreen, freeing up additional cabin space. Asymmetric Dashboard and Sliding Seat Configuration Combined with a shoulder-to-shoulder distance between driver and passenger that is similar to a C-segment model, the unique 3+1 seating configuration creates enough room for three adults, plus either a child or luggage carried behind the driver. Centre Take-off Steering Gear Slim Seat Design ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE iQ will be offered with a choice of two petrol engines and one diesel. These, together with the compact design, low weight and aerodynamic shape of iQ, will contribute to outstanding fuel economy and exceptionally low CO2 emissions, which are anticipated to start at around 100g/km. Production will commence during late 2008, with 100,000 units expected worldwide in the first full year. 2009 Nissan Murano Named ‘Top Safety Pick’ By IIHS The all-new 2009 Nissan Murano, on sale in the US and coming to Europe late 2008 has earned a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). When testing nine mid-sized SUV models, IIHS found the Murano to be the best overall performer in front, side and rear crash test evaluations. The Top Safety Pick award recognises vehicles that provide superior overall crash protection among vehicles in their class and only include vehicles equipped with standard electronic stability control; the Murano comes standard with Nissan’s electronic stability control system, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC). The Murano was also one of only two mid-sized SUVs to earn a good rating for protection against whiplash injury in rear-end crashes. A “good” rating is the highest the IIHS uses. The Nissan Murano joins the previously named Infiniti EX35 in the 2008 IIHS Top Safety Pick list. About the safety features of the Murano: About IIHS Saab Brings Power to the People Saab has announced that its 1.9 TTiD engine is now available in all 9-3 Vector Sport variants, bringing this revolutionary technology into a completely new price range. Previously only available in the flagship Aero model, prices will start from just £25,315 for the Vector Sport variant. The Saab TTiD engine produces 180 hp (132kW) and 400 Nm of maximum torque, specific power outputs that are unmatched among competitor products on the market. With a combined fuel consumption of 50.4mpg for the Saloon, and an exceptionally low CO2 emissions rate of just 149g/km, this engine offers class-leading economy, together with in-gear performance on a par with the 2.8V6 turbo petrol engine. David Pugh of Saab Great Britain, said: ‘The addition of the TTiD engine to our Vector Sport model means that we can offer top level diesel performance with superb fuel efficiency in a greater number of our cars - this really is putting technology in a price range that has never been seen before.' For more information on the TTiD engine, feel free to pop in to Causeway Saab and speak to one of our friendly Sales Executives, who will be happy to help you. Škoda Fabia Estate Hits Showrooms Škoda's new
Fabia Estate is on sale from today (Thursday the 7th of February). Insurance groupings that start as low as 2E for the 1.2 HTP (70bhp) Fabia Estate 1 and a whopping 60mpg combined (1.4 TDI 80bhp), should also help keep running costs to a minimum. Škoda's network of nearly 130 retailers is expecting big demand for the new model. Over 30,000 examples of its predecessor were sold between 2001 and 2007 and the 2008 version looks set to do even better. Below is a complete list of all variants, along with prices and CO2 figures: Model/Trim Engine
CO2g/km RRP
Renrod Holdings Ltd Acquires Causeway Saab in Chippenham Wednesday 30th January saw Renrod Holdings Ltd acquire Causeway Saab in Chippenham. The company plans a programme of growth and improvement of the existing business, working closely with the dealership team and the Saab franchise. Where necessary, investment in terms of facilities and training will be provided to enable the delivery of consistently high standards of customer care in a modern and pleasant environment. Renrod Holdings Ltd is pleased to be strengthening its already strong business ties with General Motors (owner of Saab), and look forward a productive and successful working relationship. Based in Trowbridge,
Renrod Holdings Ltd are also owners (via its subsidiaries) of a number
of well established local dealerships which include Platinum Vauxhall
in Frome, Trowbridge and Chippenham, Platinum Renault in Bath, Chippenham
and Trowbridge, Platinum Skoda in Bath, Platinum Toyota in Bath and Trowbridge,
Platinum Nissan in Box (Near Bath) and Trowbridge, and the Platinum Accident
Repair Centre in Bath. The new BMW 320d Convertible and BMW 125i Coupé " New Convertible
and Coupé models make world debut alongside EfficientDynamics concept
car and M3 Convertible at Geneva Motorshow. BMW UK has announced additions to the 3 Series Convertible and 1 Series Coupé ranges. The new BMW 320d Convertible and 125i Coupé will receive their world debuts at the Geneva Motorshow in March alongside an EfficientDynamics concept car and a raft of other new models. Highlight of the BMW stand at the Geneva Motorshow will be a concept car showcasing the outlook and future direction of BMW's innovative EfficientDynamics programme. It will appear alongside the worldwide debut for the forthcoming BMW M3 Convertible with M Double Clutch Transmission. The new BMW X6 and 1 Series Convertible also make their European debuts. The new BMW 320d
Convertible This single-turbocharged
two-litre diesel engine propels the 320d Convertible from zero to 62mph
in 8.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 139mph. EfficientDynamics plays
a part in the car's performance with stop-start technology on manual cars,
a second-generation common-rail injection engine, and a Diesel Particulate
Filter fitted as standard. These technologies ensure that the new 320d
Convertible is BMW's most frugal open-topped 3 Series, delivering an impressive
53.3mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 140g/km. The new BMW 125i
Coupé Generating 218hp from its 2,996 cc engine, the new 125i Coupé accelerates from zero to 62mph in 6.4 seconds and achieves a top speed of 152mph. EfficientDynamics ensures that this level of performance doesn't compromise the car's consumption and emissions with the two-door Coupé delivering 35.8mpg on the combined cycle and emitting 190g/km of CO2. The new 125i Coupé SE costs £23,195 OTR while the M Sport derivative, with its 18-inch alloy wheels, sport seats and body styling, costs £25,050 OTR. The new BMW 125i Coupé goes on sale in March 2008. Other Geneva Motorshow introductions The new BMW M3
Convertible The new M3 Convertible's engine develops 420hp at 8,300rpm and 400Nm of torque at 3,900rpm from its 3,999cc V8-power unit. When equipped with its standard six-speed manual gearbox, this engine powers the car from zero to 62mph in 5.3 seconds and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. However, even with these supercar levels of performance, BMW's EfficientDynamics programme ensures that economy is not compromised with the car delivering 21.9mpg on the combined cycle. The new BMW X6 In another BMW first, the entire model range is turbocharged with the X6 offering a quartet of forced induction power plants. The range flagship is an all-new twin-turbocharged V8, the X6 xDrive50i, producing 408hp. The configuration of the new V8 engine is unique too. It is the first engine in the world to locate twin-turbochargers and a catalytic converter within the vee of the engine. The V8-engined car is joined by the 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder petrol-engined X6 xDrive35i producing 306hp. The X6 will also offer two turbocharged diesel-powered derivatives. The BMW X6 xDrive30d is powered by a single-turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine featuring third-generation common-rail fuel injection and producing 235hp. The BMW X6 xDrive35d uses an award-winning twin-turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine to produce 286hp. BMW specification
enhancements Purchasers of BMW 3 Series Saloon and Touring models now also benefit from navigation and visibility value-added packages. Media Package - Business offers customers Business navigation (complete with map and arrow view), Bluetooth mobile telephone connectivity and BMW's ConnectedDrive Assist and Online for a package price of £1,645 (£2,115 on ES). This represents a significant saving of up to £635 compared to the individual option pricing. Media Package - Professional upgrades Business navigation with Professional navigation (complete with its widescreen format and perspective map view), and adds Voice Control, all for a package price of £1,935 (£2,405 on ES), saving up to £745. BMW 3 Series Saloon and Touring customers can also specify the Visibility Package. Ideal for motoring in the dark winter months, the package contains Adaptive Xenon headlights, Headlight washers, Rain sensor with automatic headlight activation and BMW's innovative High-beam assistant. Priced from £605, this package saves the customer up to £270 compared to ordering the individual options. Buyers of twin-turbo BMW 123d and 135i models can opt for an automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddles for £1,505. Finally, prospective owners of 1 Series cars now have a significantly wider colour choice. Jet Black, Crimson Red, Monaco Blue metallic, Bluewater metallic, and Sparkling Graphite metallic are being introduced on Convertible models at its launch. Bluewater metallic will also be available on 1 Series Coupé, 3 and 5-door Hatch models, with Tahiti Green metallic also available on the Hatch. For more information, pop in or call Wellsway BMW who will be happy to help you. The new BMW X6 " World's first
Sports Activity Coupé The new BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupé heralds the dawn of a new era in motoring. Never before have the elegant flowing lines of a coupé been combined with the powerful presence of a four-wheel drive model. The BMW X6 is a unique proposition offering owners the safety and convenience of a command driving position with the on-road performance of a sports car, all wrapped in the svelte lines of a coupé. Model Price OTR Power
hp Torque Nm Zero - 62mph Seconds 0 - 62 Top Speed mph Combined mpg CO2
Emissions g/km *Fitted with Dynamic Package. ** Electronically-limited For the first time in BMW's history, an entire model range is turbocharged with the X6 offering a quartet of forced induction powerplants. The range flagship is an all-new twin-turbocharged V8 producing 408hp at 5,500rpm. The 4,395cc engine makes the BMW X6 xDrive50i the most powerful production X model BMW has ever produced. Its 600Nm of torque from 1,800rpm through to 4,500rpm propels the X6 from zero to 62mph in 5.4 seconds. Top speed has been electronically-limited to 155mph. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 22.6mpg. To optimise packaging, the configuration of the new V8 engine is unique too. It is the first engine in the world to locate twin-turbochargers and a catalytic converter within the vee of the engine. The revolutionary new engine design allowed engineers to fit the twin-turbochargers needed for increased performance without having to reconfigure the double wishbone front suspension. To complement the outstanding performance figures of the new 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged X6, it is joined by the X6 xDrive35i powered by the International Engine of the Year 2007 winner. The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine already available in the 1 and 3 Series now comes to the X6. Offering 306hp from its 2,979cc powerplant, the BMW X6 xDrive35i produces peak power at 5,800rpm. With peak torque of 400Nm from 1,300rpm through to 5,000rpm, it also offers the driver a seamless wave of acceleration from near idle. This award-winning engineering results in a vehicle that can sprint from zero to 62mph in 6.7 seconds before going on to a top speed of 149mph. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 25.9mpg with CO2 emissions of 262g/km. It is the diesel-powered cars that are predicted to be the biggest selling variants in the UK. The BMW X6 xDrive30d is powered by a single-turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine featuring third-generation common-rail fuel injection and producing 235hp at 4,000rpm. The 2,993cc unit achieves 520Nm of torque from 2,000rpm through to 2,750rpm. This helps deliver a zero to 62mph time of 8.0 seconds before going on to a top speed of 137mph (with the Dynamic Package fitted*). The BMW X6 xDrive30d still achieves 34.4mpg on the combined cycle. Emissions of just 217g/km CO2 ensure the car falls into the Band F Vehicle Excise Duty tier. Blending high performance with class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions is also a trait of the BMW X6 xDrive35d. Powered by an award-winning twin-turbocharged six-cylinder diesel engine with third generation common-rail technology, the X6 xDrive35d produces 286hp at 4,400rpm. Peak torque is 580Nm and this is attained from 1,750rpm through to 2,250rpm. The near instantaneous peak torque figure delivers swift acceleration in all situations. Zero to 62mph is achieved in 6.9 seconds before the vehicle continues on to a top speed of 147mph. Fuel consumption is equally impressive with the X6 xDrive35d returning 34.0mpg on the combined cycle and emitting 220g/km CO2 emissions - again making it a Band F Vehicle Excise Duty tier BMW. EfficientDynamics Brake Energy Regeneration, incorporating an Intelligent Alternator Control and an Absorbent Glass Mat battery to recycle previously lost energy, ensures unrivalled fuel consumption in the X6. This is achieved as the alternator reduces drag on the engine by only engaging when required to charge the battery. Normally a traditional alternator is constantly draining power from the engine. Additionally, the energy generated by the engine on over-run (under braking or descending a hill) was also previously wasted. Now this lost energy is used by the alternator to charge the battery. Reduced rolling resistance tyres featuring special heat resistant, anti-distortion materials in the tread and sidewalls lower emissions and improve fuel efficiency on the X6. The Sports Activity Coupé comes with low friction transmission fluids for efficient running and active aerodynamics to regulate air flow to the engine. This enables the engine to always work at its optimum efficiency for the benefit of power and economy. Petrol-powered X6s also feature high-precision direct injection for the optimum in combustion characteristics. Dynamic Performance
Control Dynamic Performance Control is unique. It is the only system of its kind in the world able to provide its stabilising effect both under power and with the engine on overrun. The system works by detecting possible over- or understeer of the vehicle in, for example, a bend. When this occurs Dynamic Performance Control will vary the distribution of drive forces between the wheels for perfect stability, dynamic traction, and forward motion. This is achieved by transferring additional wheel speed to the outer rear wheel to push the car round the corner rather than applying brake force to the inner wheels as currently happens with traditional stability control systems. In the process, Dynamic Performance Control improves driving stability at all speeds, not only ensuring maximum traction when pulling away and precise control when entering a bend, but also higher levels of lateral acceleration and optimum directional stability when accelerating out of the bend. Design The exterior design of the X6 is a bold statement of that customer intent. From the front, large air intakes positioned on the outer reaches of the front bumper highlight the cooling requirements of the high-performance engine. The contour of the central air intake, in addition, visually widens the car for a more sporting appearance. From the side, the unique design and proportions of the BMW X6 are striking. Its tapering roofline and long rear body overhang give the car a stretched coupé silhouette. To accentuate this, the roofline reaches its highest point directly behind the steering wheel tapering off to the rear to emphasise the dynamic wedge shape of the car. Flared wheel arches, standard 19-inch light-alloy wheels and a wide rear track all serve to underscore the vehicle's sporting intent. Equipment highlights Inside, standard equipment highlights include part electric seat adjustment, 6.5-inch colour display screen with iDrive controller, two-zone climate control and ISOFIX child seat attachments in the rear. The X6 xDrive50i comes as standard with a different style of 19-inch alloy wheel, self-levelling rear suspension, angular exhaust tailpipes, a redesigned kidney grille and side window surround, and Nevada leather upholstery. Optional highlights of the X6 include BMW's Adaptive Drive handling package, Active Steering, Head-up Display, Adaptive Headlights, High-beam Assistant, Reversing Camera and four-zone climate control. The BMW X6 launches in May, 2008 with the X6 xDrive30d, xDrive35i and xDrive35d. The X6 xDrive50i goes on sale later in the year. For more information please contact our BMW dealership. Aygo Platinum: Precious Metal At A Perfect Price. There is no more exclusive Aygo than the new Platinum, a version of Toyota's award-winning city car that is brimful of premium quality features. But while the specification is high, the price tag marks the model down as an ideal New Year bargain. On sale from January, Aygo Platinum benefits from £1,555-worth of additional equipment beyond the range-topping Aygo+, yet the price premium is just an extra £550. No maths degree is required to work out that that's a deal worth more than £1,000 for every customer. Luxurious features provided as standard include Alcantara and leather upholstery, leather trim for the steering wheel and gear knob and 14-inch Turbine alloy wheels with locking nuts. There is also Crystal Silver metallic paint - now exclusive to the Platinum model. These items are in addition to the regular Aygo+ specification, which includes six airbags, electric front windows, tilt-adjusting steering column, remote central locking, removable rear parcels shelf, six-speaker sound system with CD player and AUX-in socket for connecting portable audio equipment, 50:50 split-folding rear seats and body colour-matched door handles. Aygo Platinum is available in both three and five-door body styles, powered by Toyota's ultra-fuel efficient 1.0 VVT-i petrol engine, which gives an official 61.4mpg in combined cycle driving. CO2 emissions of 109g/km mean that Aygo Platinum costs owners just £35 a year in Vehicle Excise Duty. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard, but optional MultiMode clutchless transmission can be selected, in conjunction with optional air conditioning. On-the-road prices are £7,995 for the three-door model and £8,245 for the five-door. For more information call our sales team at Platinum Bath or Platinum Trowbridge. Low Co2 And Competitive Pricing - The Flexy New Agila "
New Agila arrives at showrooms in April Low emissions and an affordable price tag mean Vauxhall's New Agila is set to be hot in the city when it arrives in showrooms in April. Available to order from early next year, the compact but flexible newcomer benefits from tax-busting CO2 figures of just 120g/km on both the entry-level petrol and diesel engines, meaning it will fall into VED Band B - the cost of a tax disc being just £35 a year! Adding to its affordability, Agila will cost from only £7,595 when it arrives. Three trim levels will be on offer, all with impressive levels of standard equipment, plus the added advantage of the car's incredibly versatile interior layout. Small enough to be manoeuvrable into tight parking spaces, but with five doors and five full-size seats with three-point belts as standard, Agila benefits from enough luggage space to rival cars in the class above, providing plenty of room for the busiest of lifestyles. The clever design allows for plenty of storage space inside and the tall roofline provides an airy, spacious feel. It also allows a high seating position, making it easy to get in and out of the Agila and ensure good visibility even in heavy urban traffic. For those occasions when owners need to carry furniture rather than friends, the rear seat backs can be folded down to create a completely flat load floor on all but the entry-level model. In total the new Agila has a luggage capacity of 1050 litres - among the best in this sector. To complement the
dynamic looks and all-new chassis, the Agila will offer three new engines
and an automatic gearbox will be available for the first time. Petrol
units include a 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit developing 65PS and an 85PS
1.2, the latter of which will be available with optional automatic transmission.
Vauxhall's award-winning 1.3CDTi diesel will also be on offer, delivering
excellent performance from its 75PS while sipping fuel. Škoda Fabia Gets Sporty " Stylish new
model available with four engines: two petrol & two diesel Škoda has unveiled a new addition to its Fabia line-up: the Sport. It will sit atop the supermini range alongside the current Fabia 3 flagship. Costing from £10,660, the Sport represents excellent value for money coupled with a more aggressive, purposeful look. This new stance is achieved thanks to a deeper, more sculpted front spoiler, 16-inch alloy wheels, boot spoiler, a chrome exhaust pipe and rear diffuser. Buyers will also find lots of extra kit (over the Fabia 2) including: curtain airbags, sunset glass, sports seats, front fog lights and a three-spoke leather sports steering wheel. All of which adds up to £1,825 of customer value for a premium of just £940. Prices start at £10,660 and £11,735 respectively for the 1.2 12V (70bhp) and 1.6 16V (105bhp) petrols. The diesel duo cost £12,115 for the 1.4 TDI (80bhp) and £12,795 for the larger 1.9TDI (105bhp). Insurance groupings that start as low as 3E (for the 1.2 12V) and VED bands ranging from B to D, are also certain to keep running costs down. The first deliveries are expected at the end of January 2008. Thereafter, the Fabia Sport will do battle with the likes of the Ford Fiesta Zetec S and Vauxhall's Corsa SXi. Head of Škoda UK, Chris Craft, said: "There's a proven appetite among British buyers for sporty looking cars that don't come with the added expense of a big engine. The Fabia Sport looks fantastic, but won't break the bank when it comes to insurance premiums and fuel bills - which is particularly pertinent at the moment." " New model available
with four engines: two petrol & two diesel For more information on the Skoda Fabia Range, call or pop in to our Platinum Skoda Dealership. Prestigious Prize For Corsavan "
Corsavan named Small Van of the Year by What Van? Yet another trophy has been added to Vauxhall's cabinet after the Corsavan was crowned 'Small Van of the Year' by the prestigious magazine, What Van? The award is the second accolade for New Corsavan, which was named 'Best Car-Derived Van' by Professional Van and Light Truck magazine earlier in the year. Praising the newest addition to Vauxhall's LCV range, What Van? editor Neil McIntee said: "If you're looking to minimise your carbon footprint without compromising on performance, ride, safety or cab space and are looking to achieve these in a small van you can park just about anywhere, look no further. We reckon that Vauxhall's latest Corsavan could be just what you're looking for, and that's why it's What Van? Small Van of the Year for 2007." The judges also praised Corsavan's styling, payload and purpose-built load area - a feature uncommon in this area of the market, where a lot of vans are simply converted hatchbacks. The latest piece of silverware brings Vauxhall's haul of awards for its commercial vehicles to a total of 18 different commendations since 2005, while continued sales growth means Vauxhall Commercial Vehicles currently has its best year-to-date sales ever. Regarded as the ultimate publication for van buyers and drivers, the What Van? awards are judged by a panel of drivers and fleet managers, as well as the magazine's own editorial team. Renault Unveils Its New Agile And Stylish Kangoo Van Compact Renault is strengthening its number one status in the European LCV segment with the launch of its New Kangoo Van Compact, a new concept in the commercial vehicles sector, designed for urban driving. Unveiled at the start of the European Road Transport Show in Amsterdam last week, this agile, compact and stylish compact van shares the key strengths of its larger New Kangoo Van sibling, as well as its distinctive personality. It uses space particularly efficiently, with a maximum load capacity of between 2.3 and 2.9m³ (depending on version) from an overall length of just 3.83m. New Kangoo Van Compact is aimed at those whose jobs take them frequently into city centres, where parking and ease of manoeuvrability are critical, as well as those who just require a more compact van to meet their needs, regardless of location. New Kangoo Van Compact sets unprecedented standards of comfort, with carefully thought-out ergonomics. Its dashboard is worthy of an MPV and the high-up driving position combines with the panoramic windscreen for a broad view of the road ahead. The cabin is exceptionally spacious for such a compact vehicle, with front elbow room of 1.51m.
In spite of its diminutive dimensions, New Kangoo Van Compact boasts a load capacity of between 2.3 and 2.9m³ (depending on version). It also features an interior width of 1.21m, enabling it to accommodate standard Euro pallets. When the New Kangoo Van Compact's passenger seat is folded to form a flat floor, the maximum load length increases from 1.34 to 2.12m. A version without passenger seat is also available (depending on country), which can take load lengths of up to 2.54m. In either configuration, maximum load capacity is 2.9 m³. New Kangoo Van Compact has many clever storage spaces, such as the A4-document dashboard stowage, overhead parcel shelf and a large, lidded 15-litre glovebox (depending on version). New Kangoo Van Compact can also serve as a travelling office thanks to its many multimedia and navigation features. Renault also offers a mobile navigation device holder, which is positioned near to the driver's seat for easy visibility. The Multi-functional TunePoint system is also available with the New Kangoo Van range. Located in the glovebox, this device enables occupants to listen to their own music collection, via three ports for connecting USB keys, MP3 players and iPods™. For safe driving and ease of use, the music can be controlled via the fingertip remote controls on the steering wheel. A hands-free Bluetooth function is also available. New Kangoo Van Compact has a range of engines ideally suited to motoring in built-up areas. The 1.5 dCi diesel engine is available with an output of either 70hp or 85hp, while the 1.6 8V petrol unit delivers 90hp. All of the engines drive through a five-speed manual gearbox. The availability of maximum torque from low engine speeds and a lighter weight than the standard version combine to give the 1.5 dCi New Kangoo Van Compact brisk acceleration and genuine driving pleasure in and about town. With CO2 emission levels of less than 140g/km, both diesel models are particularly economical and environmentally-friendly. The dCi 85hp returns combined cycle fuel consumption of just 55.4mpg (equivalent to 135 grams of CO2/km). Both 1.5 dCi versions of New Kangoo Van Compact comply with the criteria for Renault's eco² symbol. Derived from the Scénic platform, which is acclaimed for its dynamic performance, comfort and safety, New Kangoo Van Compact boasts handling worthy of a family saloon. It is equipped with latest-generation ABS which combines with Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and engine torque overrun regulation. Depending on version and market, New Kangoo Van Compact benefits from driver aids traditionally associated with saloon cars (e.g. cruise control, speed limiter, automatic headlamp activation and rear parking proximity sensors). Its cabin is designed
to ensure the highest levels of safety for all occupants. Both Because all van users seek well-designed vehicles that can adapt to their needs, Renault offers a full range of complementary conversions and accessories. The cost of mechanical work and repairs has also been minimised to ensure that New Kangoo Van Compact remains an economical and reliable vehicle. Dimensions - New Kangoo Van range
Ever since it was first released, Kangoo has proved highly successful, with over 2.2 million units sold worldwide, around half of them in LCV versions. With attractive products backed by efficient services, Renault's LCV offering is very well matched to the needs of its business customers. The New Kangoo models, made at the MCA plant in Maubeuge, France, set new standards for quality in this vehicle segment, further improving on the best-in-class quality achievements of the previous-generation Kangoo vans. Since the first model was released in 1997, over 2.2 million Kangoos have been made across four continents: MCA Maubeuge (France), Casablanca (Morocco) Córdoba (Argentina) and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). Kangoo Van stands out as Europe's biggest-selling small van ever, with sales approaching 1.1 million units. Good sales results confirm the confidence that Kangoo inspires among business users, with their focus on quality, reliability, purchase price, running costs and service. enault's unbroken ten-year leadership of the LCV market attests to its expertise in this highly competitive sector. Through a worldwide network of over 700 Business Centres, Renault addresses business users with a versatile, responsive sales and aftersales organisation staffed by specialist teams capable of offering tailor-made solutions. Renault's LCV Division
is a specialised organisation employing 2,000 engineers and technicians. Patrol And Navara Get A Long Way Down On 17 December Nissan will launch special versions of both the Navara Pickup and Patrol 4x4 to commemorate its successful tie-up with the high-profile 'Long Way Down' expedition, currently being shown on Sunday evenings on BBC2. Travelling from John o'Groat's to Cape Town earlier this year, actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman completed their epic 15,000 mile journey on motor bikes, supported for the entire trip by a crew travelling in two Nissan Patrols. Following in the footsteps, or bike tracks, of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman means Nissan's special versions need to look the part with both the Navara and Patrol coming fitted with unique badges, decals and mats. Style is, however, no use without substance so both models have been created to represent real value. The equipment-packed Navara 'Long Way Down' is priced at £17,995 (on the road + VAT) and the Patrol 'Long Way Down' £25,995 (on the road). At £17,995 the Navara 'Long Way Down' has been loaded with £2,500 worth of equipment as standard, including black leather upholstery with electric and heated front seats, roof rails, chrome door mirrors, electric sunroof, CD autochanger, plus side and curtain airbags. Integrated DVD satellite navigation and premium audio gets added to the 'Long Way Down Expedition' priced at £19,995 (OTR + VAT). Automatic transmission can also be added for a further £1100 (+VAT). The 'Long Way Down' Patrol at £25,995 comes with two additional foldaway seats, 17" alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated and electric front seats, climate control air-conditioning, rear privacy glass, front fog lamps, DVD satellite navigation and cruise control. The Patrol's go anywhere off-road ability, tested to the max by the 'Long Way Down' crew, comes as standard with selectable four-wheel drive, dual ratio gearbox, rear diff-lock and a switch operated detachable rear stabiliser bar. A further £1,400 provides automatic transmission. Nissan supported the 'Long Way Down' adventure through the supply of two specially prepared Patrols for the show's Producer/Directors Russ Malkin and David Alexanian. Carrying essential equipment, plus a fully-trained medic and two cameramen, the cars followed Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman across some of the roughest terrain in Africa in countries such as Namibia, Sudan, Libya, Rwanda and Ethiopia. The trip started from John o'Groat's on 12 May and finished in Cape Town in South Africa 15,000 miles in 66 days later. At a recent 'Long Way Down' charity party, Nissan donated the very first special version 'Long Way Down' Navara Pickup to be auctioned in front of a celebrity-packed audience. After much frenetic bidding, the Navara sold for a whopping £42,000. The evening's activities went on to raise over £300,000 for 'Long Way Down's' charities of choice - UNICEF, the Children's Hospice Association in Scotland (CHAS) and Riders for Health.
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