The Renault M탩gane...
The Renault M탩gane diesel is going automatic. The French maker has introduced its first oil-burning self-shifter, a 1.5-litre dCi. As well as returning 48.7mpg and emitting only 153g/km of CO2, the car covers 0-60mph in 14.7 seconds and has a top speed of 108mph. Prices start at í‚á£14,490 and rise to í‚á£15,800.
Auto Express"s spies...
Auto Express"s spies caught both Subaru and Mitsubishi putting their latest rally-bred supersaloons through their paces at Germany"s Níƒá¼rburgring and we"ve printed the sneaky snaps in this week"s mag.
First round the track was Subaru"s next-generation Impreza Spec C, a roadgoing competition-inspired edition virtually ready to compete in Group N rallies. Featuring a new aerodynamic bonnet with large air intake, lightweight body panels and a carbon fibre rear wing, the Subaru is hugely capable.
It also has uprated suspension and a modified turbocharger which gives a higher boost pressure. However, the Spec C will only be available to import.
Next up is Mitsubishi"s new Evo X. Only three weeks after pictures of the concept were released, we spotted the first test mule out on a high-speed run.
Based on the next-generation Lancer platform, it will get a new four-wheel-drive transmission, but keep the existing car"s 2.0-litre turbo engine. Power output is unlikely to exceed 340bhp, yet handling will be even more thrilling thanks to redesigned suspension.
The Evo X goes on sale here in summer 2007 as a four-door saloon only. A "warm" five-door Lancer hatch with around 200bhp will also be offered.