From launch, the groundbreaking...
From launch, the groundbreaking model was offered with 125cc and 250cc powerplants. And now, a bigger, 34bhp 400cc version has joined the range.
Auto and Law
20 years ago
20 years ago
A company selling a...
A company selling a fuel additive that could damage car engines has altered its website after an Auto Express expos탩 in issue 814. Eco-tab falsely claimed its tablets had been tested by experts at the American Society for Testing and Materials. After our report, lawyers warned the firm to stop misleading motorists.
A court battle is looming...
A court battle is looming between Audi and Nissan over the letter Q. In America, the Japanese firm has used it on Infiniti models such as the Q saloon and QX SUV since 1989. Now Audi wants to put the letter on its Q5 and Q7 4x4s, but Nissan reckons that will cause confusion and is suing its German rival.
A crackdown on uninsured...
A crackdown on uninsured motorists has been launched by the Department for Transport. The initiative links the DVLA"s vehicle register and the Motor Insurance Database, so police can discover which cars are on the road uninsured. Officers can seize the offenders" vehicles and, in some cases, have the models crushed.
Additional lanes for...
Additional lanes for buses and cars with at least one passenger are likely to be approved now the Government is changing the way it measures congestion. Ministers used to count vehicles for traffic surveys, but now it will tally the number of people inside them. The results will support the case for "high occupancy vehicle" space and more bus priority measures.
A family of innovative...
A family of innovative new small Mazdas is on the way to replace the 2 supermini. Bosses have seen a secret preview of two concepts set to debut at September"s Frankfurt Motor Show. A source told us: "You need variety and volume in this class."
After 60 years of car...
After 60 years of car production, the doors finally shut at Peugeot"s Ryton plant - with the loss of 2,300 jobs - as a 206 rolled off the line for the last time.
After an initial consultation...
After an initial consultation, the firm provides a 3D computer model, so owners can see the garage before it’s built. The average cost is ?25 per square foot, so a typical 400sq ft space will set you back ?10,000, but the sky is the limit. For this sort of money, expect a garage that’s more polished than the car parked there!
All models now have...
All models now have an electronic hill start function, plus aluminium kickplates, footwell illumination and a soft-touch dashboard. There are new six-spoke alloy wheels and door mirror indicators. A Bluetooth hands-free system has also been added. Prices remain unchanged when sales start next month.
All variants come with...
All variants come with special five-spoke 18-inch alloys, uprated brakes and improved sports suspension. There are also sports seats and a three-spoke steering wheel.
And then there were...
And then there were three! British sports car firm Noble is set to unveil its third model, the M15, which will sit alongside the M400 and M12 GTO-3R. Based on the M14 concept seen at 2004"s British Motor Show, the 455bhp, 3.0-litre mid-engined vehicle will start at around ÷£75,000 when it arrives at the end of the year.
And the picture in this...
And the picture in this week"s mag reveals conclusively that the BMW-owned baby"s trademark clamshell design has been dropped in favour of a more conventional panel, which leaves the headlights in place when it"s opened. The modification will reduce production costs and mean the car is easier to repair in the event of an accident.
A new 140bhp 1.8-litre...
A new 140bhp 1.8-litre petrol engine is being offered by Vauxhall. It will debut in the next-generation Zafira, which goes on sale in July, but will eventually be rolled out across other models in the range. The new Ecotec unit has 14 per cent more power than the motor it replaces, yet is more fuel-efficient.
A new Crap Cars calendar...
A new Crap Cars calendar features vehicles such as the Trabant 500 and Austin Allegro - and we have six to give away.
A new hybrid powertrain...
A new hybrid powertrain, which uses a three-cylinder petrol engine mated to an electric motor, is being developed by Lotus Engineering.
A new lightweight 138bhp...
A new lightweight 138bhp, 1.8-litre engine has been launched for the Vauxhall Vectra and Signum line-ups. Despite power being boosted from the outgoing version"s 121bhp, the manufacturer says that the new unit is up to three per cent more frugal than its predecessor. Prices start at ÷£14,750 for the 1.8-litre Vectra and ÷£17,995 for the Signum.
Anyone thinking of buying...
Anyone thinking of buying a Smart Roadster Brabus might want to hold on to their money until next month, when a minor facelift is due. Along with the Roadster Coup탩, the car gets new colour-coded bodywork, a gearstick-mounted starter button and fresh cabin trim. The price will rise by í‚á£300 to í‚á£16,995.
A pair of new models...
A pair of new models for the UK have been unveiled by SEAT. Its Alhambra MPV gets a new 2.0-litre TDI 140 engine, replacing the 130, while the Ibiza will have a 1.4-litre TDI 80 in place of the current 75bhp unit. Both go on sale in the new year, and at roughly the same price as the outgoing models - í‚á£19,110 and í‚á£9,200 respectively.
A possible brake defect...
A possible brake defect has forced Kia to recall the current-generation Sportage SUV. Nearly 3,000 have been sold this year, but only 816 - those built in April and May - are affected. Owners should contact their dealers for a free 40-minute replacement of the faulty handbrake components. It"s the second Sportage recall in three months.
As part of a pilot scheme...
As part of a pilot scheme, organ donor registration forms are being mailed to motorists in Yorkshire with their road tax reminders. The "leave more than memories" campaign, run by NHS UK Transplant and the DVLA, is aimed at boosting the number of drivers who carry donor cards. Visit www.uktransplant.org.uk for details.
A sporty edition of...
A sporty edition of Ford"s Focus C-MAX has joined the range. The Ultima gets unique styling, including a deeper front spoiler, alloys and privacy glass. A Family Pack that includes a DVD player is also available. The MPV has a choice of 2.0-litre petrol or diesel engines, and prices start from í‚á£18,250.
As well as displaying...
As well as displaying 24 production cars on its stand, Kia will unveil a new MPV concept at next week"s Frankfurt Motor Show. Called the Multi S, the newcomer will combine the practicality of a people carrier with compact SUV styling. It"s set to pave the way for a future production model, designed to take on the next-generation Daihatsu Terios.
At the last minute...
At the last minute, Ford group bosses ordered a logo for the Swedish firm, 20 feet above the show hall floor, to be covered. This was to prevent it shining down on sister firm Aston Martin"s international reveal of the Vanquish S Ultimate next door. Minutes after the conference, crews were busy taking down the white sheeting again.
Avoid the jams, pile-ups...
Avoid the jams, pile-ups and roadworks with a new traffic service. Website www.getmethere.co.uk features a route-planner with live hotspot updates, and the info can also be accessed via mobile phone. You can even schedule in stops at your favourite service station using the site, developed by Toyota GB and software firm IS Solutions.
Benefits of using the...
Benefits of using the inert gas include the prevention of rubber corrosion, excess wear and loss of pressure. Interested drivers will need to have their tyres inflated with nitrogen professionally, as all normal air needs to be removed first. This costs as little as £2 per wheel. Contact your local tyre fitter for details.
Boffins are inviting...
Boffins are inviting drivers to help build the car of the future. A Government Internet survey aims to find out what motorists will want from cars in 2010. Experts will develop the required technology and sell it to the big manufacturers. Visit www.sprintcar.org.uk to change the future of motoring.
Bosses at Nissan have...
Bosses at Nissan have gone camera crazy! After fitting rear-facing lenses to cars to aid parking, staff at the firm"s Sunderland plant can now watch themselves on screen at work. A unique new system aids workers in the trim and chassis shop by allowing
BRAZIL: A man sparked...
BRAZIL: A man sparked panic when he drove his on-fire car on to a Serra filling station forecourt. Staff acted fast to shut off the pumps and call the emergency services.
British sports car maker...
British sports car maker Noble has announced that the M12 GTC, the firm"s first convertible, will go on sale in August. The car, due to be unveiled at May"s British Motor Show, now has a hood, which can be stored inside when not in use. The original 2002 British show concept was completely roofless.
Buoyed by winning the...
Buoyed by winning the Car of the Year title with the Panda, Fiat is hoping its Idea mini-MPV will create as much excitement when it goes on sale this week. Offered in five guises, the base 1.4-litre Active will cost í‚á£9,995 while the range-topping 1.4 Eleganza is í‚á£12,495. A 1.3 Multijet is also offered, from í‚á£10,895.
But there"s more - we"d...
But there"s more - we"d also like to hear about cars with cabins so dirty they"re a health hazard.
Car giant Ford has been...
Car giant Ford has been rapped by the Advertising Standards Authority over a misleading commercial.
Caterham will be first...
Caterham will be first across the line with its new motorsport-inspired R400 Superlight.
Child seat manufacturer...
Child seat manufacturer Kiddy is recalling 1,650 of its TopSafe models sold since March last year across Europe. The majority have been bought at Opel dealers, but 250 were purchased by UK Mercedes customers. A defect in the ISOFIX hooks could lead to the chair becoming detached in a crash. All affected owners are being contacted.
China has become Rolls-Royce"s...
China has become Rolls-Royce"s third best market.
Citroen is hoping its...
Citroen is hoping its C4 hatch will be the automatic choice for UK buyers - diesel versions are to be offered with a self-shifter for the first time.
Civil liberty campaigners...
Civil liberty campaigners have slammed plans to introduce roadside fingerprinting of motorists.
Controversial chief...
Controversial chief constable of North Wales, Richard Brunstrom, has fired another blast at speed limits. "If a limit is bonkers we"re less likely to stick to it, so we need a national reform," he said. "We must have some credibility in the public mind and be engaged in an ongoing debate with the Government."
Could these be the next...
Could these be the next big thing on Luton dance floors?
Dates for the next British...
Dates for the next British Motor Show have been announced. The event will be held at the ExCeL centre in London"s Docklands from 20 to 30 July 2006. A spokesman for show organiser the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said the dates were chosen to coincide with the start of the school summer holidays.
Design student Carl...
Design student Carl Andr탩 Norstebo has turned the two-seater city runabout into a soft-top and replaced the hinged bootlid with a removable one. He"s named his creation the Thinkster.
Does your partner"s...
Does your partner"s or friend"s driving send you round the bend? Perhaps you think your wife is the worst driver in the world, or your best mate is a horror behind the wheel? If so, Auto Express would like to hear from you. Write to Marc Mustard at the usual address, email him at
Drivers of Rovers and...
Drivers of Rovers and VWs use theirs most, while Honda and Fiat owners do so the least. What are we talking about? Garages. And not using them for cars could cause a parking crisis, says the RAC Foundation. Its report reveals 71 per cent of motorists have access to a garage, but 41 per cent of those fail to use it. People use the space for storage.
Engineers at the Highways...
Engineers at the Highways Agency came up with the clever new markings. They have been placed between Junctions 8 and 10 in Surrey on a concrete section of the busy motorway, and could go nationwide if the trial is a success. A Highways Agency spokeswoman told Auto Express: "We have had lots of calls from people congratulating us on a brilliant idea."
Engineers at Toyota...
Engineers at Toyota are to contact fire chiefs directly, following our shock story about the Prius in last week"s issue. We revealed how rescuers claim they don"t have details of hybrid fuel systems, allowing them to safely cut drivers out after an accident. "Now we"re going straight to the top," said a Toyota spokesman.
Fiat has made its latest...
Fiat has made its latest move in the space race. The wraps have come off its next Doblo MPV, which goes on sale here in February.
Ford has bitten the...
Ford has bitten the "Bullitt" and is bringing back Steve McQueen, this time to promote the new Mustang. The actor, who died in 1980, will be digitally inserted into an ad based on the film Field of Dreams, with a race track appearing in the corn. McQueen starred in Ford"s 1997 Puma ads, and he drove a Mustang in the 1968 movie Bullitt.
Forget Jack Frost this...
Forget Jack Frost this Christmas - frost-jacking is the term given to a new type of car crime foxing police. Thieves are stealing cars that have had their engines left running to defrost the windscreen. Greater Manchester Police recently reported 14 cases in one morning. The force is urging people not to leave their cars ticking over unattended.
Free kit worth í‚á£900...
Free kit worth í‚á£900 is the reason to buy the Fabia SE, according to Skoda. The supermini comes with air-conditioning and alloy wheels on top of the standard Classic or Comfort trim. Prices start from í‚á£7,495 for the Classic 1.2 54bhp petrol, and rise to í‚á£11,710 for the Comfort 1.9 TDI 100bhp estate.
French giant Michelin...
French giant Michelin has recalled some of its tyres for cars and light vans. The defect, which could see the tread detach itself from the rubber on 46,000 tyres, mainly affects US drivers, but a batch of European-bound BFGoodrich All-Terrains are also involved. Owners are being advised to get their tyres checked by their local main dealer.
Halewood, the Merseyside...
Halewood, the Merseyside home of Jaguar"s X-Type, has been rated by Ford as its top factory worldwide. Jaguar boss Joe Greenwell said the plant, which is due to start assembling Land Rover"s Freelander later this year, had undergone a remarkable turnaround since production of the Escort finished in 2000.
Hereò€™s proof that...
Hereò€™s proof that money canò€™t buy taste! London firm Alchemist is offering to clad your car roof with 24-carat gold leaf. Itò€™s the ultimate decal, but it doesnò€™t come cheap, with prices from Ò£12,500.
If Smartwaxò€™s prices...
If Smartwaxò€™s prices have deterred you from trying the US firmò€™s valeting range, this new 150ml three-pack is easier on the wallet. The wash aims for a spot-free clean, while the polish is long-lasting carnauba wax, and the Smart Dressing can be used on rubber, vinyl and leather. The set costs Ò£19.99, compared to Ò£14.99 for the 475ml wax alone.
If you fancy the thrill...
If you fancy the thrill of a track day but haven"t got the right car, Lotus has just the thing for you. It"s an enclosed simulator, and has been developed by the firm in conjunction with Norfolk Police. The message is that circuits, not roads, are the place to enjoy cars. Other forces can borrow the unit for events.
If you"re still flying...
If you"re still flying the flag for England, despite their demise in Euro 2004, it could be bad for your wallet. The flags fixed to thousands of car windows have cost UK motorists over í‚á£6million in increased fuel bills. Tests revealed the extra drag they created drops fuel economy by 1mpg per St George"s Cross.
In a breakdown, a third...
In a breakdown, a third of new motorists would call their mum or dad for help. Only 25 per cent of those asked were recovery service members, and of those who weren"t, nearly half would call for a breakdown truck despite the potentially high cost for non-members. Only 10 per cent would attempt their own fix.
In another boost for...
In another boost for our campaign, the Highways Agency has revealed plans to research tailgating. Insiders said it will educate drivers to deter them from following too close. This should include the increased use of chevrons painted on the road - which we have called for - plus illuminated warning signs and cameras that detect distances between vehicles.
Is it a sports car or...
Is it a sports car or a motorcycle? This three-wheeler concept from Italian bike manufacturer Aprilia is being touted as a real ground-breaker. The company reckons the newcomer is the first vehicle of its type to feature dual-fuel technology. It says it"s capable of high speeds and will appeal to people from both car and bike backgrounds.
Is white van man about...
Is white van man about to get a lesson in road manners? The Freight Transport Association (FTA) is tackling light commercial drivers" image problem with the Van Drivers" Handbook, which details major road rules and requirements. "Hopefully it can improve white van man"s reputation," said FTA spokesman, Lawrie Alford.
Italian supercar legend...
Italian supercar legend Ferrari has updated its home in cyberspace. The www.ferrariworld.com website has more than 2,000 pages, containing in excess of 3,500 images, which should keep the estimated 60,000 daily visitors happy. There"s also a special members" area where fans can access exclusive content.
It"s all part of the...
It"s all part of the ULTra project in Cardiff, where computer-controlled taxis run on elevated trackways around the city to avoid jams. It"s due to be launched next year.
Its figures reveal two-thirds...
Its figures reveal two-thirds of UK motorists take a wrong turn up to 10 times annually, clocking up 325 million miles unnecessarily.
It"s Happy Days for...
It"s Happy Days for Citroen! The firm is hoping Seventies TV star The Fonz will provide a sales boost for the facelifted C3. Old footage of ultra-cool Fonzie - played by actor Henry Winkler - and other cast members of the hit American sitcom have been digitally remastered to appear in a series of new commercials.
It"s supposed to be...
It"s supposed to be as anti-social as drink-driving, but figures show that very few motorists who use a mobile behind the wheel are caught.
Japanese firm Lexus...
Japanese firm Lexus has expanded its hybrid RX400h SUV range. The SR slots in between base and SE trims, has electric leather seats and metallic paint, and costs ÷£37,500. Buyers can upgrade the audio system to include twin DVD screens for ÷£2,200. Add sat-nav, Bluetooth and a reversing camera, and the total price rises to ÷£42,945.
Judging by this van...
Judging by this van, there"s no end to Vauxhall"s VXR sporting intentions. While this Vivaro is a one-off to support the VX Racing team in the British Touring Car Championship, the firm plans more VXR models. Insiders say the VX220, Monaro and 2005"s hot Astra will be followed by a 230bhp VXR Zafira and a 1.6-litre Meriva turbo.
Korean firm Hyundai...
Korean firm Hyundai has responded to demand for Ford Mondeo-sized lifestyle vehicles with the Genus concept (image). Penned in Rüsselsheim, Germany, it blends coupé sportiness with estate versatility. The car debuts at next month"s Geneva Motor Show, alongside the new Santa Fe 4x4, which is appearing in Europe for the first time.
Lamborghini lovers are...
Lamborghini lovers are in for a treat! As the Italian firm pulled the wraps off its ?800,000 Reventón supercar, it promised to keep on surprising fans with at least one new car every year. And in an exclusive interview, boss Stephan Winkelmann confirmed to Auto Express that the company will create new models based on its Gallardo and Murciélago.
Legal history has been...
Legal history has been made by motorist Ian Rumble from Hartlepool, Teesside. He escaped a speeding fine after his car was caught on camera, because he claimed he couldn"t remember who was driving at the time. The Crown Prosecution Service says it is the first time a driver has successfully used this defence to appeal a fine.
Measuring 1,951mm long...
Measuring 1,951mm long, it"s more than 300mm larger than the H1. Details about the newcomer are scarce, but under the big Commander"s bonnet is a 4.0-litre turbodiesel engine, while the car is capable of carrying up to 15 passengers. The rugged, go-anywhere image is complemented by modern headlights, a leather interior and alloy wheels with massive tyres.
Mercedes aims to tighten...
Mercedes aims to tighten its grip on the UK market by boosting the number of cars available with its advanced 4-Matic four-wheel drive.
Miles of fibre optic...
Miles of fibre optic cables are being embedded in motorways to act as strain gauges, revealing if structures are about to collapse. Embankments on the London orbital M25 are getting six miles of the cable, and more will go into a bridge over the M6 in Lancaster. Light shone down the cable distorts and triggers a warning if the structure starts to move.
Mobile phones started...
Mobile phones started the "pay as you go" craze, and there"s now a similar scheme for car insurance. Norwich Union"s policy is for 18-21-year-olds, and uses an in-car black box to monitor vehicle use. With on and off-peak hours, daylight journeys are cheaper than those made after 11pm - when young drivers are most at risk.
More motorists are using...
More motorists are using their cars as mobile offices, says a new report.
More than 260 Disco...
More than 260 Disco and Range Rover Sport models are affected by the latest alert, which was launched after it was discovered that a second row seatbelt mounting might not be effective in an accident. Sister company Jaguar is also recalling 109 XJs and S-Types over a potentially faulty automatic gearbox.
Multiple engine options...
Multiple engine options may soon disappear from spec lists. Manufacturers will fit all cars in a model range with the same capacity unit, but alter their power output using the ECU, claims Martin Illsley, director of research at technology company Accenture. The move could help to reduce production costs.
Music on the move –...
Music on the move – that’s what Brits love. A survey by Vauxhall has revealed that 41 per cent of those questioned use time at the wheel to listen to music, which is twice the number of those who do so at home. And more than three-quarters said choosing the rights songs for a journey was essential.
NASA has set up a division...
NASA has set up a division to develop flying cars. The American agency responsible for putting people into space now wants to put drivers in the air. It plans to have a single-seater ready within 10 years and a four-seater by 2019. The theory is that motorists would fly between airports and drive only on local roads.
Nissan has shrunk the...
Nissan has shrunk the price of its baby, with up to ÷£1,500 being chopped off the Micra.
Not many firms are happy...
Not many firms are happy to have their new model branded "a hairdresser"s car" - but Peugeot is.
Not sure if you could...
Not sure if you could live with a new Subaru? Here"s your chance to find out. The firm is offering 24-hour test drives to potential buyers. But boy racers needn"t apply, as the deal - which covers the entire range - is for 25-70-year-olds. And to drive a performance model, you"ll need to be 30 or over.
Not to be outdone, Citroen...
Not to be outdone, Citroen is offering New Year bargains across its range. Bag a Xsara Picasso MPV from only í‚á£9,995 thanks to a huge í‚á£3,500 saving, or the new C2 VTS for í‚á£10,500 - a í‚á£1,500 discount. Be quick, though; the deals are for cars ordered before the end of January and registered by 31 March.
Off-roading fans are...
Off-roading fans are set to face í‚á£40,000 fines if they damage protected habitats or wildlife, thanks to a new law introduced in Scotland. The bill makes it a specific offence to use vehicles in sites of scientific interest, and raises the current penalty from í‚á£5,000. Supporters say 4x4s destroy flowers which take years to grow back.
Old tyres can be turned...
Old tyres can be turned into ink for computer printers! So say three inventors from Matlock, Derbyshire, who have worked out how to extract the ingredient which makes the rubber black. They say they can reclaim the valuable carbon after the tread has become illegal for road use. It can then be used to refill inkjet printer cartridges.
One of the more unusual...
One of the more unusual sights at the Chicago Motor Show was the customised C230 Sports Coup탩 on the Mercedes stand. It used a 1.8-litre turbo engine and featured a bronze paintjob that changed tone depending on the angle you looked from. It also wore a huge rear wing and low front splitter.
Only in America would...
Only in America would this be big news - visitors to the Detroit Motor Show got the chance to be driven around in the latest diesels from Mercedes, Smart and Chrysler. Oil-burners sell in tiny numbers in the US, and are actually banned from dealerships in some states, because they"re considered too polluting.
Options reserved for...
Options reserved for the top-spec Toyota RAV4 have been added to a special edition of the SUV. The XT-R comes with climate and cruise control, privacy glass, a cargo net and an auto-dimming mirror. Prices start at í‚á£17,995 for the 2.0-litre petrol three-door, rising to í‚á£19,995 for the 2.0-litre diesel five-door.
Over 5 million people...
Over 5 million people look set to buy a car this summer, spending an average of over ÷£5,100 each. This 11% up on the last 6 months, when fewer people were looking for a car, and only reckoning to spend ÷£4,800 on average.
Parts supplier Valeo...
Parts supplier Valeo is working on the set-up for luxury motors. Meanwhile, Parfum d"Images, the company behind the Citroen C4"s sweet-smelling air-con, has revealed that two more models are to benefit. It"s a secret which they are, but the Peugeot 207 and new Citroen Picasso are the most likely.
Paul Quéveau...
Paul Quéveau, boss of retractable metal roof firm Heuliez, said: "In 2006, soft-tops and hard-tops split the worldwide convertible market 50-50. However, in the next five to 10 years, 20 per cent will be soft-tops and 80 per cent hard-tops." BMW is the latest maker to switch, opting for a metal roof over a fabric hood on its 3-Series cabrio.
Peugeot’s 107...
Peugeot’s 107 Urban is moving – up in price. For an additional ÷£550, buyers can opt for the Urban Move, which offers a host of extra kit over its regular Urban sister. Features include a rev counter, air-con, a choice of Raven Black or Zircon Grey metallic paint, unique seat trim and silver finishing on the speedo, air vents and door pulls.
Poor-performing brands...
Poor-performing brands in the General Motors empire are facing the axe. The US firm"s vice-chairman, Bob Lutz, didn"t provide any clues about which companies are under threat, but described Buick and Pontiac as "damaged brands". His comments follow a profit warning from the company amid fears that falling sales could see earnings drop by 80 per cent in 2005.
Prices and details have...
Prices and details have been announced for the Ford S-MAX unveiled at the Swiss expo. When it arrives in showrooms at the end of the summer, the seven-seater will start at ÷£16,767 for the 2.0-litre petrol LX, rising to ÷£21,767 for the 2.5 Titanium. Engines are 2.0 and 2.5-litre petrols, plus 1.8 and 2.0 Duratorq diesel units.
Prices for the Proton...
Prices for the Proton Gen2 - exclusively driven in Issue 820 - have been released. The entry-level 1.6 GL will be í‚á£8,995, and comes with twin airbags, remote central locking and air-con. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-range GSX auto costs í‚á£11,395 and benefits from alloy wheels, foglamps and cruise control.
Prices start at ?14,995...
Prices start at ?14,995 for the 1.6-litre Mondeo Edge, which replaces the departing LX trim. Zetec prices start at ?16,695, while the luxury Ghia range opens at ?18,445. All cars get added kit including ESP stability control, driver"s knee airbag, Isofix child seat mountings and Easyfuel - which prevents drivers putting diesel in a petrol car, or vice versa.
Privately advertised...
Privately advertised used Rover prices have fallen by an average seven per cent since the manufacturer closed its doors, according to used car database, Cardata.co.uk. The advertised price for the Rover 75 has plummeted an incredible 36 per cent, dropping from an average of í‚á£10,883 to just í‚á£6,912. Could be the time to snap up a bargain...
Production of Kia"s...
Production of Kia"s cee"d family hatchback has started at a plant in Zilina, Slovakia, which cost one billion Euros.
Programme makers are...
Programme makers are seeking mechanics, receptionists and managers to run a car repair workshop in a new TV show. "The Garage" will be set in an expat community on the south coast of Spain and will be shot this summer. People with an interest in customising are especially being sought. For more information, call 020 7603 7142.
Pulling into Hopwood...
Pulling into Hopwood Park services near junction two of the M42 in Worcestershire, he couldn"t believe his luck when this prototype of the forthcoming Range Sport parked up - and Andrew was quick to pull out his camera. Unfortunately, he wasn"t able to get a shot of the cabin because the driver was still inside.
Riders of BMW"s scooter...
Riders of BMW"s scooter, the C1, have been told they have to wear a helmet if they"re on British roads. Magistrates had ruled against an owner who argued it wasn"t necessary as the vehicle has a roof and cross-chest seatbelts. The High Court has now upheld the decision. Most other European countries don"t make C1 riders wear a helmet.
Roll up... BSA has just...
Roll up... BSA has just added two wheels to its range: the 334 Tao and 367 Bullet. The five-spoke Tao (main image) comes in two sizes – 15-inch at ÷£61 or 17-inch at ÷£77 – while the eight-spoke Bullet costs ÷£77 for the 17-inch and ÷£86 for the 18-inch rim.
R you ready for the...
R you ready for the fastest MPV ever? Mercedes is unveiling an AMG version of its R-Class at March"s Geneva Motor Show. The R63 AMG uses the same storming 6.3-litre V8 as the CLK 63 AMG and CLS 63 AMG, which will also be at the Swiss event. With a huge 510bhp on tap, the unit should be able to propel the 4WD six-seater from 0-60mph in less than six seconds.
Scientists have discovered...
Scientists have discovered how to bond rubber with plastic to make better bumpers. These can now be designed to flex rather than crack in low-speed impacts, and provide extra protection for passengers in more severe crashes. Invented at Penn State University in the US, the material must now undergo tests.
Searching car-related...
Searching car-related topics on the Net will automatically generate related motoring content - news, road tests, videos, long-term reports and group tests - from the Auto Express, evo and Test Drive websites. This will display in the left-hand column of your browser window.
SE cars now get a boot...
SE cars now get a boot spoiler and central front armrest as standard. Also included is sat-nav, with a seven-inch pop-up colour screen on top of the dash.
Selling second-hand...
Selling second-hand child car seats should be banned, according to the car insurance arm of Sainsbury"s Bank. Research has revealed that at least 255,000 used seats were bought last year, yet it is impossible for parents to know if their purchase has been damaged in a crash. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has backed the call.
Smart owners looking...
Smart owners looking to supersize their ForTwo can now buy an extended boot which doubles load space. The í‚á£1,050 Clever End is a plastic box that bolts on to the back of the car. It incorporates a larger tailgate linked to the central locking system, plus extended rear lamps. Visit www.clever-end.com for more info.
Speed traps that snap...
Speed traps that snap a driver"s face are set to become more common on UK roads. One camera captures the rear number plate on film, while another a few metres ahead takes a second image to show who was driving. The set-up will end the traditional excuse where motorists avoid conviction by saying they don"t remember who was driving at the time of the offence.
Strong early residual...
Strong early residual values for the new Honda Civic are showing no signs of weakening as demand for the stylish hatch continues to remain buoyant. The first semi-auto i-SHIFT versions have hit the auction houses, and dealers can’t get enough of them. Values were roughly 96.2 per cent of list, so forecourt prices are set to stay high for a while yet.
Supercar firm Lamborghini...
Supercar firm Lamborghini is doubling the number of its UK dealers - to four! The move comes as deliveries of the new Gallardo Spyder convertible begin in Britain. The Raging Bull already has dealers in Manchester and London; the two new sites in Birmingham and Edinburgh will both be run by performance car specialist Sytner Group.
Taking centre stage...
Taking centre stage at the US expo will be the new Sorento, based on the same platform as Hyundai"s spacious Veracruz.
That distinctive new...
That distinctive new car smell could be a thing of the past - at least, if you buy a Toyota. The firm has revealed that it is working to cut the level of chemicals which come from glues, paints, vinyls and plastics in the cabin. The fumes can trigger headaches and sickness in some people, and prolonged exposure to much larger doses has been linked to cancer.
That"s the claim made...
That"s the claim made by online cover provider esure.com, after a study found that while 20 per cent of UK drivers have reported potholes to their local authority, a third of them say nothing has been done. One in 10 cars has been damaged by the ruts - five per cent have even failed an MoT as a result.
The annual Plymouth-Dakar...
The annual Plymouth-Dakar rally for cars costing less than í‚á£100 is facing a fresh challenge for 2005. New laws recently introduced in the Gambia - where the event ends - ban right-hand-drive vehicles for unspecified safety reasons, so competitors will have to use left-hand-drive models instead.
The arrival of the new...
The arrival of the new A4 will be music to the ears of Audi fans. A bespoke Bang & Olufsen sound system is offered on the car, which debuts at next week’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The 505-watt set-up is a ?525 option on all models, and features 14 speakers, plus 7.1-channel surround sound.
The device acts as a...
The device acts as a standard mirror until someone phones you, when it displays a caller ID in the glass. Buttons let you control calls and speakers are built into the rear of the unit. Once paired with your mobile, the kit will connect with the handset each time it is brought into the car.
The Driving Decisions...
The Driving Decisions survey by the Tickbox.net website polled 2,300 people, and highlighted growing concerns about standards behind the wheel. It also found weary motorists are still more likely to open a window than stop at a service station - in spite of the Government"s "Don"t drive tired" campaign.
The driving test could...
The driving test could be changed following an increase in the number of accidents involving HGVs. Insurance firm Direct Line has suggested the examination should be adapted to include motorway tuition which informs people how to deal with larger road users at 70mph. There were 6,000 accidents involving lorries in 2003, resulting in 166 deaths.
The experimental psychologist...
The experimental psychologist found that small levels of alcohol could impair driving performance, which encouraged drink-driving laws to be introduced.
The Government"s annual...
The Government"s annual report on safety cameras is six months overdue. The document, which evaluates the roadside devices" successes and failures, is usually published early in the summer, but ministers only received the draft copy at the start of this month. A Department for Transport spokesman said: "It has taken the authors longer than expected."
The Japanese car maker...
The Japanese car maker has teamed up with gaming giant Codemasters to produce a driving game (image) which features the exciting hatchback.
The kit has Europe-wide...
The kit has Europe-wide mapping and a 6.5-inch colour screen, and the offer runs until 30 September.
The Lancashire town...
The Lancashire town of Leyland, which gave its name to one of the greatest car makers of the 20th century, has created a heritage trail linking all its automotive landmarks. British Leylandò€™s famous North Works is now home to the Leyland market, while the South Works factory houses the British Commercial Vehicle Museum.
The largest ever collection...
The largest ever collection of MG sports cars is expected to congregate at Silverstone over the weekend of July 23-25, for the MG Car Club"s International Festival in the marque"s 80th anniversary year. The 54th consecutive event is the largest MG event of its kind with an anticipated gathering of over 5,000 MG cars and 30,000 enthusiastic attendees.
The law change would...
The law change would apply to red-light cameras, too. Motorists are delighted - but not everyone else is. The move has sparked a row between the state senate and council bosses in the city of Toledo. The latter want the former to leave the law alone - because they reckon speed cameras work well.
The limited-run car...
The limited-run car comes with a unique paint finish, and has matching mats, air vent surrounds and instrument cluster.
The Mitsubishi Evo just...
The Mitsubishi Evo just got more extreme. While the new Evo X won"t go on sale until early 2008, the firm has confirmed that the Evo IX MR will arrive in the UK in January.
The M탩gane Oasis...
The M탩gane Oasis (first image) boasts a panoramic glass sunroof and hands-free entry. Prices get under-way from í‚á£12,030 for the 1.4-litre petrol model.
The month of May will...
The month of May will mark the end of an era, as William Clay Ford Snr retires from the blue oval"s board of directors after 57 years" service. During his tenure, Ford has witnessed the manufacturer"s transformation from a family business - run by his grandfather and company founder Henry - into a global automotive giant, now headed by his son Bill.
The Motor Show is open...
The Motor Show is open to the public from Friday 28 May to Sunday 6 June. Advanced ticket sales have closed, but you can pay on the door (í‚á£16 adults/í‚á£9 concs). Entry to the Motropolis Live Action Arena is í‚á£7.50, with the behind-the-scenes Paddock Tour - sponsored by Auto Express - priced at í‚á£3.
The í‚á£1.9million project...
The í‚á£1.9million project is called LIFECar, and up to 75 per cent of the cash has been supplied by the Department for Trade and Industry. The investment was secured through the Foresight project, the UK auto industry"s scheme for pioneering motoring ideas. No one at Morgan was available for comment.
The New Car Code of...
The New Car Code of Conduct covers the handling of complaints, availability of spare parts, advertising and warranties. If buyers aren"t happy with the service they receive, they can go to an independent arbitration panel, which can impose fines of up to í‚á£5,000. All the major firms have joined the scheme.
The new year will signal...
The new year will signal a raft of changes for Nissan"s X-Trail, with the best-selling Sport model set to be replaced. While prices for the new Columbia trim are unchanged at í‚á£21,000 in dCi guise, improved standard kit includes darkened side windows and electric folding door mirrors. SVE and T-spec variants will merge to become the Aventura.
The next Fiat Stilo...
The next Fiat Stilo needs to be built at the "speed of light", say bosses. That"s because they want to replace the current model earlier than planned due to poor sales. The firm was forced to look outside Italy for a company that could get the job done quickly enough, and chose Magna Steyr, the Austrian outfit responsible for Chrysler"s 300C.
The old-style V5 registration...
The old-style V5 registration document - the paperwork that showed a car had been officially licensed - will be invalid from the start of next month. It"s gradually being replaced by the V5C certificate, launched last year. However, not everyone has the new document yet - and that could mean drivers are breaking the law.
The open-top stunner...
The open-top stunner was unveiled last year at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but has only just arrived with dealers in England. Lucky prospective owners with a mortgage-sized lump of cash to burn with have to wing their way to one of the official Lambo dealers in London or Manchester.
The organisation has...
The organisation has set up a competition to design a carbon awareness campaign for road users. Entrants will be asked to devise ideas relating to low carbon fuels, responsible vehicle use, eco-friendly driving, clean business transport and low-polluting vehicles. Visit www.lowcvp.org.uk for details.
The president of the...
The president of the Institute of Advanced Motorists, the Duke of Gloucester, has been banned from driving for six months. The Queen"s cousin admitted to doing 70mph in a 60mph zone on Cambridgeshire"s A47 last August. The Duke will lose his IAM membership, but the outfit has declined to say what will happen with regard to his official duties.
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.
There"s six of the best...
There"s six of the best on the Audi stand, with half-a-dozen examples of the new A6, making its UK debut, on display. No other models will be there, but that"s nothing new for the German firm - it did the same thing at the 1999 expo with the TT.
The rest of the line-up...
The rest of the line-up kicks off with the Pulse, priced from í‚á£8,995, and is rounded off by the flagship Passion, from í‚á£10,370.
The return of round...
The return of round headlamps is evident, as is the ground-hugging front spoiler. The rear wing on this particular car is for race use only; the road-legal version won"t be quite as aggressive. Few official details are available at the moment, but prices and performance are expected to be similar to those of the current model.
The Riviera is a modern...
The Riviera is a modern interpretation of the Sixties coupé of the same name, and features a sweeping carbon fibre body, complete with gullwing doors and LED headlights. Under the bonnet, power is provided by a new hybrid set-up, which will go into production at parent company General Motors" Shanghai plant in 2008.
The Volvo Owners" Club...
The Volvo Owners" Club is looking for vehicles that have been around the block a few times. Models with more than 150,000, 300,000 and 500,000 miles on the clock will be eligible for Bronze, Silver and Gold membership respectively.
The winners of the Government"s...
The winners of the Government"s showcase transport town competition have been announced. Peterborough, Darlington and Worcester will each get more than í‚á£3million to improve facilities after their plans for promoting alternative transport methods - such as walking, cycling and bus use - were judged the best.
The world"s first ever...
The world"s first ever four-door Jeep Wrangler will debut at April"s New York Motor Show. The car gets the same traditional styling as the two-door seen at the Detroit expo earlier this month (issue 892). Both versions will come to the UK with a choice of the 3.8-litre petrol engine and the all-new 2.8-litre diesel.
THE world"s first push-button...
THE world"s first push-button car radio appeared in 1938. Renault was first to offer steering wheel-mounted radio controls in 1984 on its Renault 25 executive model.
This eco-friendly Greenline...
This eco-friendly Greenline version of the Fabia Estate is heading for the UK.
This is the brand-new...
This is the brand-new GT concept from Citroen and it"s set to make its debut at the Paris Motor Show.
This is what was revealed...
This is what was revealed when Hurricane Charley tore down a barn in Kissimmee, Florida, last month - 17 rare Ferraris, an Avanti and an old Indy racer were stored there by their multi-millionaire owner. Read the amazing story behind the cars from US columnist Steven Cole Smith on Page 98 in this week"s mag.
This petrol model has...
This petrol model has 160bhp and sprints from 0-60mph in 9.9 seconds. The top-spec 3.2 JTS V6 Q4 Lusso costs from ÷£29,350.
To celebrate being supplier...
To celebrate being supplier to the British Olympic Association, and with the help of record-breaking triple jumper Jonathan Edwards, MG Rover also showed off a í‚á£10,795 limited-edition Streetwise. The car boasts front foglamps and six-spoke alloys. Only 500 will be made - all finished in sonic blue with Olympic ring decals.
Two-thirds of British...
Two-thirds of British motorists risk being fined when driving abroad because they fail to carry certain items in their motor. A new survey conducted by car care expert Comma found many don"t have first-aid kits, fire extinguishers or warning triangles - all of which road users in France, for example, must have by law.
Unveiled at Detroit...
Unveiled at Detroit, this 7.4-metre-long van is a one-off special based on a Tourneo-spec model, and offers space for seven plus the driver.
Upmarket audio specialist...
Upmarket audio specialist Bang & Olufsen has made a bespoke sound system
USA: Driver William...
USA: Driver William Putman lost a finger in a smash - but it was reattached after firemen froze it in a tub of ice cream from the Los Angeles gas station where the crash happened.
US researchers filmed...
US researchers filmed the driving habits of 100 volunteers for a year, recording 82 crashes and 761 near-misses. Of those, 80 and 65 per cent respectively were due solely to driver distraction. Meanwhile, British insurers warn that motorists" cover could be at risk if an iPod is proven to have taken the driver"s attention.
VAUXHALL has added a...
VAUXHALL has added a 1.8-litre Ecotec engine to its Zafira MPV. The new 140bhp unit has more power and lower fuel consumption. Prices start at í‚á£15,695.
Virgin Atlantic is launching...
Virgin Atlantic is launching an amphibious limousine service. The airline, chaired by Sir Richard Branson, will carry passengers from central London to Heathrow on the River Thames using a fleet of new Gibbs Aquada cars. Branson recently set a new time for crossing the Channel in his own Aquada.
Volkswagen is offering...
Volkswagen is offering ÷£1,000 off Tourans until March 31, meaning the new Touran 1.6-litre S now costs from ÷£13,750 while the range-topping 2.0-litre TDI Sport is reduced to ÷£20,060.
We brought you the exterior...
We brought you the exterior pictures last week: now here"s the inside line on Renault"s facelifted Laguna. The heavily revised cabin features improved materials and new seats, while upmarket models get a dash-mounted display with a sat-nav system similar to Nissan"s Birdview. It is operated by a multi-media selector in the console.
We contacted the DVLA...
We contacted the DVLA to enquire about a missing V5c, and were told we would be charged í‚á£19 for a new one. We had done nothing wrong - the old one was lost in the post or the last owner hadn"t sent in his section. The DVLA explained: "The fee is aimed at getting drivers to take better care of their documents."
We"ve been hunting for...
We"ve been hunting for official pictures of VW"s Fox city car. Officially, it"s the Lupo replacement - and it"s just debuted at Germany"s Leipzig Motor Show - but at 3.82m long, it"s only 8cm shorter than the Polo. Two petrol engines - a 54bhp 1.2-litre and 73bhp 1.4 - and a 73bhp 1.4 TDI diesel will power the car.
What does "zero-nize"...
What does "zero-nize" mean? It"s the new buzzword for Toyota"s vision of the future. A company spokesman explained: "It refers to the eradication of the negative effects of traffic accidents, congestion and environmental impact." This basically means making the firm"s cars safer and cleaner. Bosses want to zero-nize things by 2010.
When it comes to chic...
When it comes to chic showrooms, BMW is the style king, says a new survey. In fact, German marques took the top three places.
While the overall dimensions...
While the overall dimensions look to have remained similar, a higher bonnet line will ensure the newcomer meets the latest pedestrian impact regulations. The existing C-Class"s twin headlamps make way for more conservative units, but an S-Class-style rising waistline adds character. The car debuts at next March"s Geneva Motor Show.
While the prototype...
While the prototype is still heavily disguised, it’s clear that the designers have penned a far more angular body for the next-generation Avensis carrier. The British-built newcomer won’t go on sale in showrooms here until 2009, although it’s likely to make its official debut late this year.
Worth a staggering í‚á£20,000...
Worth a staggering í‚á£20,000, the one-off model has a turbocharged engine producing 150bhp and a free-flowing exhaust, which should help it to sprint from 0-60mph in around seven seconds. The newcomer also features 18-inch alloy wheels and a garish bodykit, which includes a deep front splitter, redesigned headlamps and a whopping rear spoiler.
You can turn up without...
You can turn up without an appointment (though we think it advisable to phone first), and a fitter will examine your lights and indicators, windscreen wipers, battery condition, as well as screenwash and engine oil levels. You only pay for any products required to be fitted. Call 08457 626625 for the location of your nearest store.
You"d think owning one...
You"d think owning one van from Eighties TV series The A-Team would be enough - but not for Peter Nelson. The curator of the Cars of the Stars museum in Keswick, Cumbria, has bought a second: the only other officially recognised vehicle used in the show. The trademark black GMC will be restored before being put on display.
You"ll find wall-to-wall...
You"ll find wall-to-wall convertibles at British Car Auctions this month. It’s holding two cabriolet-only sales at its site in Blackbushe, Surrey, on 14 and 28 April. A variety of cars will be available, from MG TFs and Mazda MX-5s to Audi TTs. Go to www.british-car-auctions.co.uk for details.