The original thirty-five candidates for the 2012 European Car of the Year award have been whittled down to a list of seven nominees, following a first round of voting. 2012 European Car of the Year Nominees Manufacturer Model Citroën DS5 Fiat Panda Ford Focus Range Rover Evoque Toyota Yaris Vauxhall / Opel / Chevrolet Ampera / Volt Volkswagen Up! Given that there have been some dubious winners in the past (the Simca / Chrysler Horizon in 1979 and Fiat Bravo / Brava in 1996 are obvious examples), it’s good to see that the jury has decided on a strong group of finalists. Perhaps the one exception is the Toyota Yaris, which really doesn’t deserve to triumph over any of the other six contenders. Arguably, the Citroën DS4 or even the Porsche 911 ought to have taken the Toyota’s place instead. A second ballot will now take place to determine the overall winner, and the result will be revealed on 5 March 2012 at the Geneva Motor Show. And wh...
Following insolvency proceedings and a subsequent change of ownership, German sports car manufacturer Wiesmann is back. Its next model is previewed by Project Thunderball, which is a two-seat, rear-wheel drive, battery-electric roadster.
A broader grille, modified headlights (which can now house adaptive LED bulbs) and a redesigned bumper identify the latest Zafira Tourer. Together, they result in a front end that bears a noticeable similarity to the current Astra's.
Suzuki has previewed the new Swift Sport, ahead of a debut at next month’s Frankfurt International Motor Show. Like its popular predecessor, it uses a 1.6 litre engine although - according to Suzuki’s provisional data - output is up slightly to 134 bhp (100 kW / 135 PS) with 160 Nm (118 lb/ft) of torque. In terms of power, that’s enough to put the Swift on a par with rivals such as the Alfa Romeo Mito 1.4 MultiAir Distinctive and Ford Fiesta S1600, while it surpasses models such as the Mini Cooper and Peugeot 207 1.6 VTi Allure. Any direct comparisons against the competition will have to wait though, as no performance, economy or emissions figures have been released. All that Suzuki is saying for now is an improvement in fuel consumption is promised, thanks partly to a new six-speed gearbox. There are very few details about equipment levels either, apart from confirmation that the Swift Sport will come with an electronic stability program, seven airbags and a unique rear suspe...
Production of the second-generation NSX will soon come to an end. To mark the occasion, Acura has created an enhanced Type S edition which is now the only available version.
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