Autoesque

Bentley has launched the Continental GT Speed coupé, its fastest ever production model. Compared to the Continental Supersports, the previous holder of that particular accolade, power from the 6.0 litre W12 twin-turbo engine is actually down by 5 bhp (3 kW / 5 PS) at 616 bhp (460 kW / 625 PS), while the peak torque figure of 800 Nm (590 lb/ft) is identical. And with a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 4.2 seconds, the GT Speed is in fact 0.3 seconds slower than the Supersports. However, the new arrival’s top speed of 205 mph (329 km/h) is quicker by 1 mph, hence Bentley’s excitement. To make the most of the performance potential, the GT Speed comes with upgraded suspension, recalibrated steering and a lowered ride height. Visually, it’s distinguished by 21” alloy wheels, darkened front grilles and a rifled finish for the exhaust pipes. Bentley dealers are accepting orders for the Continental GT Speed now, with the first deliveries anticipated to take place this October. Pricing...

To the uninitiated, the Porsche 911 range probably seems confusing enough, with twenty-one variants currently on offer in the UK. Now the arrival of a Powerkit for the Carrera S just added another element of complexity to the buying process. Featuring changes to the engine management system, modified cylinder heads, different camshafts and a new variable intake system, it lifts the six-cylinder boxer engine’s output from the usual 394 bhp (294 kW / 400 PS) to 424 bhp (316 kW / 430 PS). Combined with an additional radiator and a sports exhaust system, the result is a 4.0 second 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time for cars fitted with the PDK double-clutch transmission running in Sport Plus mode. Undoubtedly fast, but only 0.1 seconds quicker than a regular PDK-equipped Carrera S. The good news is that the power upgrade doesn’t affect fuel economy, which means a combined figure of 29.7 mpg (9.5 l/100km) with the seven-speed manual gearbox, or a very reasonable 32.5 mpg (8.7 l/100km) if the...

The new Volvo S60 Polestar concept might lead to a small production run, depending on market response. That’s the official line, anyway. But it seems incredible that the Swedish marque wouldn’t want to exploit the relationship with Polestar, its official motorsport partner, by creating a permanent high-performance member of the S60 range to steal sales from the Audi RS4 / BMW M3 / Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG trio. On paper at least, it would certainly be more than a match for the Germans: Manufacturer Volvo Audi BMW Mercedes-Benz Model S60 Polestar RS4 Avant M3 Coupé C 63 AMG Saloon Engine 3.0 litres, I6, turbocharged 4.2 litres, V8 4.0 litres, V8 6.2 litres, V8 Power 501 bhp (373 kW / 508 PS) 443 bhp (331 kW / 450 PS) 414 bhp (309 kW / 420 PS) 450 bhp (336 kW / 457 PS) Torque 575 Nm (424 lb/ft) 430 Nm (317 lb/ft) 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) 600 Nm (442 lb/ft) Drive All-wheel drive All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive 0-62 mph...

Škoda has unveiled the production version of its new Rapid compact hatch. Intended to slot in between the Fabia and Octavia in the brand’s line-up, it appears virtually identical to the forthcoming Seat Toledo and, at 4.48 metres (14’ 8”) long, the Rapid is exactly the same length as its Spanish cousin. The styling has been strongly influenced by last year’s MissionL concept , and it previews a new design language for Škoda that’s typified by taut surfacing, sharp lines and a revised front end treatment. According to Eckhard Scholz, Škoda board member for technical development, “This is a car that gives out a clear statement at first glance: clear, precise, fresh and emotional.” A public debut is planned for September’s Paris motor show, with European market launches then scheduled to begin towards the end of 2012. Although no detailed technical specifications have been released, Škoda is saying that a choice of two diesel and five petrol engines will be offered. Related...

Buick has revealed the Verano Turbo, a performance version of its compact saloon that will enter production towards the end of this year. Power comes from a two-litre Ecotec engine which features direct injection, continuously variable valve timing and, of course, a turbocharger. It sounds like a very similar formula to that used in the closely-related Vauxhall Astra VXR and Opel Astra OPC, but outputs of 250 bhp (187 kW / 254 PS) and 353 Nm (260 lb/ft) of torque are down compared to the Europeans. Nevertheless, Buick estimates that the Verano’s zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) time should be a very respectable 6.2 seconds. Both a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic transmission will be offered, and Buick is going to confirm pricing nearer to the launch date. Related posts: Opel Astra saloon launched Astra VXR / OPC revealed Buick unveils 2012 Verano Images © General Motors.

Honda only revealed the upgraded versions of its CRF250R and CRF450R at the end of May, but already the firm’s UK arm has given both off-road bikes the special edition treatment. Available in limited numbers, the CRF250R XTREME and CRF450R XTREME come with high-gloss graphics in a red, white and blue colour scheme. Buyers can also include their name and race number, at extra cost. Technical specifications are unchanged. Related posts: 2013 Honda off-roaders 2013 KX250F and KX450F Honda CRF250L for Europe

The Nissan Pixo has become the latest car to produce less than 100 g/km of carbon dioxide. As with the virtually identical Suzuki Alto , tweaks to the 996 cc, three-cylinder engine have resulted in CO2 emissions dropping from 103 g/km to 99 g/km. Not a huge reduction but, critically for UK buyers, it means that the Pixo can for the first time enjoy zero road tax and a full discount on the London Congestion Charge. Fuel consumption has improved slightly too, and the combined cycle figure is now 65.7 mpg (4.3 l/100km) for versions equipped with a manual gearbox. Apart from the mechanical changes there are new paintwork choices, some updates to the cabin trim and - somewhat incongruously for the city car sector - an electronic auto-dimming rear-view mirror has been added to the standard specification. Nissan has set UK on the road prices at £7,250 for the Pixo Visia, £8,250 for the Pixo n-tec and £9,150 for the Pixo n-tec with automatic transmission. Related posts: 99 g/km...

SRT Motorsports has begun track testing its 2013 Viper GTS-R race car. The first run took place at the Carolina Motorsports Park in Kershaw, South Carolina, with Belgian driver Marc Goossens behind the wheel. Speaking about the inaugural session, Gary Johnson, Road Racing Manager for SRT Motorsports, said: “From our standpoint it was a pretty historic day. It was pretty exciting for everybody to see a new Viper GTS-R roll out and go on the track for the first time. “We have several on-track tests planned before we will show up at our first race event. This first test was more like systems development to make sure the car shifts right, make sure the car cools right, make sure the suspension goes through all its motions and does what it’s supposed to, and make sure the brakes feel balanced. It was almost like design verification. “Our next stage is really developing the car in two areas. One is a performance development and the second area would be the durability of the car. Th...

For some new car buyers, design comes fairly low on their list of priorities. For others though, styling takes equal precedence to more mundane factors like fuel economy, luggage capacity or depreciation. The thing is, there are few truly ugly cars on the market today (obvious exceptions being the SsangYong Rodius and BMW X1). That said, there are also plenty of anonymous models that just blend into the traffic. Of course, it would be easy to stand out by spending a small fortune. But what’s available for discerning drivers with less extravagant budgets? Well, these ten cars are currently all available in the UK for under £20,000 (around €24,500 or US$32,400 at today’s exchange rates). Not all are ‘best in class’ in terms of dynamics, performance or efficiency, and some might divide opinion. Nevertheless, each is proof that when manufacturers make an effort, the results can be worth it. Alfa Romeo Giulietta Alfa’s range now consists of just the Mito supermini and t...

Although it was only launched last year, McLaren has already announced a series of upgrades for the MP4-12C. Central to the 2013 model year changes is a power increase from 592 bhp (441 kW / 600 PS) to 616 bhp (460 kW / 625 PS), achieved by remapping the twin-turbo V8 engine’s fuel system. Combined with modifications to the seven-speed transmission, the result is improved mid-range acceleration, a crisper throttle response and quicker gear changes. Neither fuel economy nor CO2 emissions have suffered, though. Among the other enhancements are additional programming options for the Intake Sound Generator system (which basically controls the amount of engine noise heard inside the cabin), buttons for the doors instead of touch sensors, an additional ‘Auto Lo’ mode for the climate control and altered automatic headlight activation settings. The good news for existing MP4-12C owners is that most of the improvements - including the engine and transmission tweaks - will be available ...

Volkswagen has launched a grand version of its Transporter van that’s aimed primarily at business users. Aptly called the Caravelle Business, it features six seats in three rows that come upholstered in Nappa leather. The middle row can face rearwards to create a meeting space, while the rearmost seats have a fridge installed between them. Both Bluetooth and wi-fi internet connectivity feature as standard, and a second battery is fitted to cope with any extra electrical demands. The driver hasn’t been forgotten either, as satellite navigation, cruise control, a lane-change blind spot warning system, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and a multi-function steering wheel are all included in the specification. Power comes from a 2.0 litre bi-turbo diesel engine that produces 177 bhp (132 kW / 180 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb/ft) of peak torque, so performance should be more than adequate. On the outside, Volkswagen has attempted to hide the Caravelle’s commercial vehi...

Holden has announced that it’ll be launching the Trax mini-SUV sometime next year. Expected to be virtually identical to the Chevrolet version unveiled last month (which is itself a reworking of the Buick Encore and Vauxhall / Opel Mokka twins), the Trax is claimed to be large enough for five people plus their luggage. John Elsworth, Holden’s Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, commented: “This is another great example of Holden bringing the best new vehicles from GM’s global portfolio to Australia.  With cars like Trax we continue to deliver world-class vehicles that meet the changing needs of customers.” However, it’s not simply a case of borrowing models from other subsidiaries, as Holden has also been involved in the Trax’s gestation. According to Simon Cassin, Holden’s Director of Powertrain Engineering: “Holden is well recognised within the GM world for our expertise in engine and transmission calibration and we are very pleased to be involved in...

The new Astra saloon further strengthens the product links between Vauxhall / Opel and Buick, because it’s essentially a rebadged edition of the American brand’s Verano . The Opel Astra saloon... ... and the Buick Verano. Measuring 4,658 mm (15’ 3”) in length and with a luggage capacity of 460 litres (1,010 litres with the rear seats folded down), the elegant four-door Astra should have a strong appeal in several European countries including Ireland, Germany and France. Additionally, Opel also anticipates high demand in emerging markets such as Turkey and Russia. However, a different situation exists in the UK, as buyers tend to prefer their compact cars in hatchback form - indeed, there’s no word yet on whether a Vauxhall version will even be offered. Borrowing the running gear from the three-door Astra VXR to create a niche performance saloon could have a certain charm, though. Sales of the Opel Astra saloon have just begun, with a choice of three petrol and four di...

Ford has unveiled its 2013 model year F-150 pick-up truck. Externally, the changes aren’t too dramatic, and they include a restyled grille, new wheel designs and three extra paintwork choices: Blue Jeans Metallic, Kodiak Brown Metallic and Ruby Red Clearcoat Metallic. High-intensity discharge headlights will also be available for the first time, a unique feature for this market segment. On the inside, there’s a redesigned centre console and some refreshed colour and upholstery choices, plus Ford’s Sync voice-controlled entertainment and communications system is now standard on the XLT trim grade and above. Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited models additionally come with MyFord Touch, which combines a centrally-mounted 8” colour touch-screen with a media hub and extra voice control commands. Ford is offering a choice of four engines, all of which are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission: · 302 bhp (225 kW / 306 PS) 3.7 litre V6 · 360 bhp (268 kW / 365 PS) ...

Mercedes-Benz has revealed a couple of new additions to its SLS AMG range. The GT Coupé and GT Roadster promise more performance and sharper handling compared to the regular versions, and are aimed mainly at track-day enthusiasts. A few internal tweaks mean that power from the 6,208 cc V8 front-mounted engine has been increased from 563 bhp (420 kW / 571 PS) to 583 bhp (435 kW / 591 PS), although peak torque remains unchanged at 650 Nm (479 lb/ft). Together with a more responsive AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed transmission, the result is a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration time of 3.7 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 199 mph (320 km/h). Impressive figures, but not a massive improvement on the standard SLS AMG, which achieves the same benchmark sprint in 3.8 seconds and can hit 197 mph (317 km/h). But perhaps the GT’s advantage will be felt the most in its chassis set-up? The AMG Ride Control Performance suspension system features stiffer spring and damper rates...

Škoda has revealed the Superb Combi Outdoor, which is the latest addition to a growing class of ‘all-terrain’ estates aimed at those who don’t want an SUV, but require a modicum of off-road ability. It looks the part too, with round front fog lights, a larger air intake and plastic panelling for the bumpers, wheel arches and sills all part of the package. However, the Outdoor is potentially a bit of a fraud. That’s because unlike conceptually similar models such as the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack , Audi A4 allroad Quattro and Škoda’s own Octavia Scout, the Superb will be available with all existing engine and transmission options (apart from the ultra-efficient GreenLine drivetrain). So, a Superb Combi Outdoor could easily end up having two-wheel drive and, with no more ground clearance than usual, that would make it no better on unmade roads than the regular version. Of course, such concerns won’t matter to certain buyers, who will probably want one just to feel more protec...

The new Mercedes-Benz GL 63 AMG can carry seven people and achieve an electronically-limited 155 mph (250 km/h) top speed. Whether it could do both at the same time is debatable though and, even if such a feat were possible, it probably wouldn’t take too long to drain the fuel tank. At the heart of the all-wheel drive behemoth is a 5.5 litre biturbo V8 engine. Producing 550 bhp (409 kW / 557 PS) and 760 Nm (560 lb/ft) of torque, it comes connected to a three-mode AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic automatic transmission. Given the bulk of the GL-Class, a 4.9 seconds 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time is remarkable, but unsurprisingly the price is poor efficiency. Despite the fitment of a start-stop system, average fuel economy is just 22.9 mpg (12.3 l/100km), while CO2 emissions are 288 g/km. Keeping the GL 63 AMG on the road is an AMG Ride Control sports suspension set-up that features an Active Curve System. This uses active anti-roll bars front and rear to reduce body roll when corneri...