Autoesque

This summer marks 45 years since Volkswagen introduced the original Golf GTI. The new GTI Clubsport 45 limited edition has been created to commemorate that upcoming anniversary.

Apart from some cosmetic differences, the ë-Berlingo pure-electric MPV is virtually the same as the Vauxhall / Opel Combo-e Life that was unveiled earlier this month.

According to Rolls-Royce, “time, astronomical phenomena and the infinite reaches of the universe” were the inspiration for its new Tempus Collection. The brand’s latest limited-edition Phantom is aptly named, because tempus is the Latin word for time.

A new Kia Light Tactical Vehicle (KLTV) has been unveiled at the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX), which is currently taking place in the UAE. Two versions of this military concept are on display there.

Tata dealers in India are now accepting orders for the second-generation Safari. This new SUV is built on the brand’s OMEGARC architecture, which is derived from Land Rover’s D8 monocoque platform. The current Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque are therefore closely related.

According to Honda, the all-new third-generation HR-V compact SUV benefits from the brand’s latest “seamless, clean design philosophy”. Although the unremarkable styling is neat enough, it loses the previous model’s distinctive chunky proportions, bold surfacing and pronounced coupé-like side glasshouse.

Mitsubishi importers and dealers across Europe are probably looking at the 2022 Outlander with a mixture of envy, frustration and anger. That’s because they won’t get to sell it, following the brand’s recent decision to stage an ordered withdrawal from the continent.

Dacia has begun selling the Duster Commercial in the UK. Instead of the usual rear seats, this new cargo-carrying model features a flat floor, lashing points and a protective bulkhead.

Following last month’s reveal of the pure-electric Combo-e van , Vauxhall and Opel have unveiled the Combo-e Life. This fully-glazed passenger-carrying version is aimed at both families and business users.

A new ‘interlock’ grille, LED headlights and a redesigned front bumper certainly give the 2021 NV300 Combi people-carrier plenty of presence.

Mini has introduced the Clubman Shadow Edition and Countryman Shadow Edition, which are going to be available in the UK only.

Ford has introduced a non-plug-in hybrid powertrain for its 2021 S-Max and Galaxy seven-seat MPVs.

Although the current Ypsilon turns ten years old next month, Lancia’s sole model remains extremely popular in Italy (the only country where sales continue). Remarkably, its market share there was an impressive 13.9% in 2020.

Toyota and Arctic Trucks have once again teamed up to create a more extreme version of the Hilux. The new AT35 pick-up – which can be ordered from Toyota dealers now – is based on the latest Invincible X Double Cab.

Suzuki’s 2021 Hayabusa is very much an evolution of the previous model. A 1,340 cc four-cylinder engine still sits within a twin-spar aluminium frame, which is covered by instantly-recognisable aerodynamic bodywork.

Husqvarna is expanding its range with the introduction of the Svartpilen 125. Aimed primarily at novice riders, this all-new learner-legal motorcycle combines distinctive styling and a decent specification.

First revealed in 1968, the Škoda 1203 went on to become Czechoslovakia’s most popular small commercial vehicle. Panel van, minibus, ambulance and flat-bed versions were all available during a production run that lasted for almost three decades.

Ten years have now passed since the original Leaf pure-electric hatchback was introduced, so Nissan is marking the anniversary with a special version of the current model.

As is the case in many markets, the popularity of SUVs continues to grow in India. Indeed, this year they’re expected to account for over a third of sales in the country’s B-segment. The new Renault Kiger is intended to exploit the opportunities created by such ever-increasing demand.

Peugeot has confirmed the technical specifications of its upcoming e-Partner, which is due to arrive at UK dealers in November. Unsurprisingly, they’re pretty much identical to those of the recently-announced Vauxhall / Opel Combo-e .