Autoesque

Ahead of its Paris Motor Show debut, Citroën has revealed the new DS3 Cabrio. Although not a convertible in the truest sense - think of it more as having a huge canvas sunroof - the unique arrangement has several advantages. For example, because space isn’t required to stow a retracted hood, the DS3 remains a full five-seater, and Citroën says that it has the largest boot in its class. What’s more, the roof can be electrically moved to its three positions at speeds of up to 75 mph (120 km/h). Compared to the existing DS3 hatchback, the Cabrio carries a practically insignificant weight penalty of 25 kg (55 lbs), plus it’s claimed that body rigidity hasn’t suffered at all during the conversion. Both of those factors should help avoid the potential drop-top drawbacks of less performance, handling prowess and efficiency. Indeed, Citroën has already confirmed that a version emitting just 99 g/km of carbon dioxide will be available from launch. Of course, being a DS3, pers...

Nissan has launched the Almera saloon at the Moscow International Motor Show. The rather bland looks might be familiar, because it’s based on the existing Bluebird Sylphy that’s currently sold in Japan and some South East Asian countries. However, the Almera has been re-engineered to cope with Russian climatic and road conditions, and it’ll be assembled locally at the Togliatti plant. Among the special measures employed are a strengthened suspension and a raised ride height. Furthermore, thicker steel has been used for the floor pan, the body has been reinforced and there are steel plates underneath to protect the engine, brake pipes and fuel lines. Even the decorative chrome gets an innovative anti-corrosion treatment. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but the Nissan Almera is due to go on sale in Russia in early 2013. Although it is going to be available in a choice of Welcome, Comfort or Tekna trim grades, the only engine that will be offered is a1.6 litre petrol engi...

Škoda has unveiled the Yeti Sochi at the Moscow Motor Show. Created especially for the Russian market, this exclusive edition is named after the Black Sea resort of Sochi, which will be the host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics. Powered by a 150 bhp (112 kW / 152 PS) 1.8 TSI petrol engine, the specification includes all-wheel drive and an automated six-speed double-clutch transmission. Externally, the Yeti Sochi is identifiable by its candy white paintwork, which contrasts with the silver-black finish that has been applied to the 17” alloy wheels, roof rails and side rubbing strips. As a finishing touch, the Sochi Olympic logo appears on the front wings, door sills and tailgate. Among the interior features are a heated windscreen, climate control, a fully-foldable passenger seat backrest and a four-spoke multifunction steering wheel. Sales are due to begin sometime in 2013, and pricing has yet to be announced. Related posts: 2013 Škoda Rapid revealed Superb Combi Outdoo...

Fiat has revealed the new Panda 4x4, which will be making its public debut at the Paris Motor Show. Available with either an 83 bhp (62 kW / 85 PS) 0.9 litre TwinAir turbo petrol engine or a 73 bhp (55 kW / 75 PS) 1.3 litre MultiJet II diesel, at the heart of the car is a ‘torque on demand’ all-wheel drive system. This uses two differentials and an electronic control unit to automatically direct drive to the front and rear axles, depending on which wheels have the best grip. An additional aid to traction in slippery conditions is the Electronic Locking Differential. Designed to work with the Electronic Stability Control system, it effectively applies the brakes to a spinning wheel at speeds below 30 mph (50 km/h). The ELD function has to be manually activated. As with previous versions, the Panda 4x4 gets a uniquely rugged look thanks to redesigned bumpers, wheel arch protectors and door mouldings. On the inside, the seats come upholstered in a special fabric with eco-le...

Following some teaser shots that were released back in July, Mazda has unveiled its new 6 saloon at the Moscow Motor Show. It’s a model that has a history of looking just that bit sleeker than its competitors, and the tradition seems set to continue with the latest generation, which follows Mazda’s Kodo ‘Soul of Motion’ design language. However, the finished article isn’t too much of a surprise because, as expected, it’s essentially a production version of last year’s Takeri concept. For the Russian market 2.0 litre and 2.5 litre petrol engines will be offered, although it’s expected that an all-new 2.2 litre diesel motor will account for the majority of sales in the UK. Fuel saving measures feature heavily and, as well as the ‘i-stop’ stop-start facility, the 6 will see the debut of Mazda’s innovative ‘i-Eloop’ brake energy regeneration technology. Unlike similar systems from other manufacturers that only begin working when the brake pedal is pressed, ‘i-Eloop’ begins ch...

Judging by the provisional dates for the 2013 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship, the organisers have quite rightly taken the view that if it ain’t broke, don’t try to fix it. That’s because the number of events, the circuits and the order in which they appear on the schedule are all unchanged. However, a slight tweaking of dates means that the final round at Brands Hatch will take place a week earlier than this year, a move that should reduce the risk of the day’s third BTCC race being run in twilight. 2013 British Touring Car Championship - Provisional Calendar Date Circuit Location 31 March Brands Hatch (Indy circuit) Nr. Dartford, Kent 21 April Donington Park Nr. Castle Donington, Leicestershire 5 May Thruxton Nr. Andover, Hampshire 9 June Oulton Park Nr. Tarporley, Cheshire 23 June Croft Nr. Darlington, North Yorkshire 4 August Snetterton Nr. Attleborough, Norfolk 25 August Knockhill Nr. Dunfermline, Fife 15 September ...

Norton Motorcycles, the latest incarnation of the famous brand, could soon begin exports of its Commando 961 range to the United States and Canada. The development follows successful noise and exhaust emission testing according to Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board standards. Compliance and safety documentation required by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was also completed as part of the programme. Stuart Garner, Chief Executive Officer, commented: “The process of opening the key USA market began two years ago with the recruitment of Dan Van Epps, an industry veteran and ex-CEO of Ducati North America. “Dan has helped steer us through the process which has taken continual resource and investment to achieve the approvals, which of course alongside Europe give us another of the most significant markets in the world. “I would also like to thank Peter Howes, Norton Canada who has worked tirelessly to make this possible. Both Nor...

The electric-powered Formula E Championship has taken a step closer to reality, with the FIA announcing that the commercial rights have been licensed to Formula E Holdings, an international consortium of investors. It’s hoped that ten teams of two drivers each will be attracted to the inaugural season, which is scheduled to take place in 2014. Ahead of that, next year should see some demonstration runs of the new single-seat cars. Rather than using traditional race tracks, the intention is to run the races on city-centre courses wherever possible. Rio de Janeiro in Brazil is the first venue to confirm its intention to host an event, using an as yet un-built circuit near to the Gloria Marina. Commenting on these latest developments, FIA President Jean Todt said: “This new competition at the heart of major cities is certain to attract a new audience. We are pleased with this agreement with Formula E Holdings as they bring a very strong experience in motor sport. “This spectacular...

Hyundai has announced that its new Veloster Turbo SE coupé will cost £21,995 in the UK. As the moniker implies, power comes from a turbocharged 1.6 litre engine that develops 184 bhp (136 kW / 186 PS). Peak torque meanwhile is 265 Nm (195 lb/ft), and to the benefit of mid-range drivability it’s available between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. However, a top speed of 133 mph (214 km/h) and a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 8.4 seconds suggest that performance is likely to be respectable rather than riveting. Perhaps as partial compensation, the combined cycle fuel economy is a decent 40.9 mpg (6.9 l/100km). Compared to other Veloster versions, the only other mechanical modification is the fitment of stiffer dampers to sharpen the handling. There are plenty of visual changes though, and these include new 18” alloy wheels, revised bumpers, extended door sills and a larger rear spoiler. The cabin features leather upholstery and, as a rather kitsch 1980s touch, the two front seats have the wor...

Subaru UK has launched the 340R upgrade for its WRX STI. Consisting of a tweaked ECU for the 2.5 litre boxer engine and a new exhaust system, the package lifts power by 39 bhp (29 kW / 40 PS) to 335 bhp (250 kW / 340 PS), while peak torque rises to 490 Nm (361 lb/ft). As a result, the 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time drops from 5.2 to 4.7 seconds, and Subaru is also claiming similar improvements for the all-important mid-range acceleration. Available alongside the existing 320R conversion, the 340R costs £1,599 and it can be fitted to new cars or installed retrospectively. To further tempt buyers, the base WRX STI is currently being offered at £26,995 - a substantial reduction of £6,000 compared to the usual price. Related posts: Impreza WRX STI S206 Free upgrade for WRX STI 2011 Subaru WRX STI

A year after the rear-wheel drive models were first revealed, Porsche has unveiled all-wheel drive versions of its latest 991-series 911 Carrera. As with the previous generation, the new transmission set-up will be available in Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S guises for both the Coupé and Cabriolet body styles. The regular Carrera 4 is powered by a 3.4 litre six-cylinder boxer engine that produces 345 bhp (257 kW / 350 PS). For those wanting a bit more performance, the Carrera 4S boasts an output of 394 bhp (294 kW / 400 PS) thanks to an increased capacity of 3.8 litres. With the optional dual-clutch PDK gearbox fitted in place of the standard seven-speed manual, that’s enough for a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 184 mph (297 km/h). Apart from the different badges, aficionados will be able to spot the all-wheel drive variants by their slightly broader rear wheel arches that conceal wider tyres, plus a red band between the rear light clusters. Due to...

Alfa Romeo has expanded its MiTo supermini and Giulietta compact ranges with the addition of a new Sportiva trim grade. For the MiTo Sportiva, which is based on the existing Distinctive version, the cabin gains black Alcantara upholstery with contrast green stitching, a darkened headlining and a leather-covered steering wheel with matte black inserts. Also included in the specification are 18” Quadrifoglio Verde alloy wheels, special kick plates for the doors and some Sportiva badges. All told, Alfa Romeo reckons the extra equipment adds up to £1,500, although the price premium compared to the Distinctive models is only half that amount. Consequently, on-the-road prices start at £16,100 for the 0.9 litre TwinAir-powered model. The Giulietta Sportiva uses the current Voloce variant as its basis. It’s distinguished by dark titanium 18” alloys, kick plates and red Brembo brake calipers, while the interior features leather upholstery. Available with a choice of six engines,...

Nissan has turned to fashion magazine Elle to help create its latest special edition. The result is the Micra Elle, a car that is almost totally devoid of any machismo. Consequently, male customers are likely to be a very rare thing indeed. Based on the existing mid-line Acenta trim grade, the Elle additionally gets 15” titanium grey alloy wheels, a panoramic glass sunroof, chrome trim for the lower portion of the grille, front fog lights, a rear roof spoiler and, of course, a smattering of Elle badges. The interior hasn’t been forgotten either, and a special seat fabric, Elle-branded front floor mats and a chrome finish for the door handles all feature. As with other Micra variants, the Elle edition is going to be available with a choice of two 1.2 litre, three-cylinder petrol engines. The normally-aspirated alternative produces a respectable 79 bhp (59 kW / 80 PS) and achieves 56.5 mpg (5.0 l/100km) on the combined cycle. Carbon dioxide emissions are 115 g/km. However, t...

Following the launch of the Colour Therapy a couple of weeks ago, Fiat has revealed the latest model in its revised 500 city car line-up. Called the 500 Street, it’s being pitched as offering sporty looks without the additional running costs of a high-performance engine. The specification is pretty generous, too, with 16” alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, dark tint windows and a satin chrome finish for the exterior trim pieces setting it apart from other 500 versions. Moving into the cabin, the standard equipment list includes sports seats, air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity. In the UK, prices for the 500 Street are identical to the existing Lounge variants, and depend on engine choice. Go for the 1.2 litre petrol model and the cost is £11,360, while the 0.9 litre TwinAir petrol is more expensive at £12,760. The 1.3 litre MultiJet diesel engine is also available, but it raises the price even further to £13,760. Related posts: Fi...

The Custom Vehicle Operations division of Harley-Davidson has unveiled two new motorcycles for 2013. First up is the CVO Breakout. Derived from the Softail family, it follows the established CVO recipe of combining special paint finishes with various premium components. As with all 2013 CVO bikes, power comes from the 110 cubic inch (1,803 cc) Screamin’ Eagle V-twin. In the Breakout it develops 150 Nm (110 lb/ft) of torque under European test standards, or a slightly higher 151 Nm (112 lb/ft) according to the SAE J1349 measure. Given such a vigorous output, Harley-Davidson has decided to fit the Assist and Slip Clutch Pack as standard. The benefit of this is reduced drivetrain loading on downshifts, which in turn prolongs clutch life. The look of the CVO Breakout is very stripped-back, with a mini headlight nacelle, internally-wired handlebars, a compact instrument housing and chopped fenders. Buyers will be able to choose from Black Diamond / Molten Silver, Hard Candy ...

Watsonian Squire, sidecar manufacturer and UK importer of Royal Enfield motorcycles, celebrates its centenary this year. To mark the occasion, the firm has combined its two business interests and teamed up with clothing brand Barbour to create a one-off sidecar outfit. Based around a Royal Enfield Bullet Classic and Watsonian GP Manx sidecar, it is finished in gloss black with details inspired by the Barbour International Original A7 jacket, as worn by Steve McQueen in the 1964 International Six Days Trials event. They include gold graphics, special tank badges that incorporate both the Barbour and Royal Enfield logos, and the use of tartan for the seat backs and sidecar lining. The outfit made its public debut at last weekend’s Watsonian centenary rally, and an appearance is also due at September’s Goodwood Revival. Related posts: Bullet Classic Desert Storm New Bullet Classic Chrome Lewis Leathers Bullet

Next year, Harley-Davidson celebrates its 110th birthday. So, not unsurprisingly, the firm has decided to use the occasion to launch a range of special Anniversary Edition models. All will feature exclusive Anniversary Vintage Bronze / Anniversary Vintage Black two-tone paint finishes (CVO versions get a Diamond Dust / Obsidian colour scheme), a build number plaque and unique tank badges made from solid bronze. Some also include other extras such as wheel upgrades, but exact specifications are market dependent. The full 110th Anniversary Edition line-up comprises: 1200 Custom 110th Anniversary Edition Global availability: 1,500 units UK price: £9,495 US price: $11,699 Super Glide Custom 110th Anniversary Edition Global availability: 1,450 units UK price: £12,995 US price: $15,999 Fat Boy Special 110th Anniversary Edition Global availability: 1,750 units UK price: £17,195 US price: $19,499 Heritage Softail Classic 110th Anniversary Ed...