Fifth Gear

New Ford B-Max unveiled

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:25:00 +0000

Ford has revealed the production version of the Ford B-Max, which was initially unveiled at 2011’s Geneva Motor Show.

The road-ready version will make its debut at this year’s show and promises to wow crowds with its unique B-Pillarless design and impressive technical features.

The B-Max is a Ford Fiesta-sized SUV with two sliding doors in the rear and two regular doors up front. It’s able to lose its B-Pillars thanks to the use of trick materials, which give the car enough rigidity to keep it from becoming wobbly on the move and the roof from caving in. Thanks to its pillarless structure it’ll have a wider door aperture than its competitors from Citroen and Vauxhall.

The B-Max will come with Ford’s new 1.0-litre three cylinder EcoBoost engine. As well as the 125bhp, 58.9mpg engine, the B-Max will come with a variety of Duratorq diesels.

Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO of Ford of Europe, commented: “The B-MAX combines an exciting, innovative design with features that only previously have been found in bigger cars… It’s a brand new car that responds to the needs of an increasing number of customers who want much more from their small cars”.

The B-Max will go on sale in September.

Read New Ford B-Max unveiled on 5FWD

Euro NCAP reveals safest cars of 2011

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:41:00 +0000

Safety organisation Euro NCAP has revealed the safest vehicles it tested in 2011.

53 cars were tested in 2011, each falling into one of five categories. There are a number of tests to evaluate the safety of a car – tests like frontal impact, car to car side impact, child protection, pedestrian are inflicted on the vehicles. Naturally, the more secure/solid the car is the higher it scores.

The safest cars in their respective categories are:
Small off-road 4×4 category: Audi Q3
Supermini category: Chevrolet Aveo
Small Family category: Ford Focus
Small MPV category: Mercedes B Class
Large Family category: Volvo V60

Euro NCAP also honoured Ford, Volvo and Mercedes for their innovations in safety tech over the last year.

The gongs for Volvo and Mercedes were awarded for their Autonomous Emergency Braking systems – tech that stops drivers from hitting other cars or pedestrians.

Euro NCAP Secretary General, Dr Michiel van Ratingen, commented: "With Euro NCAP Advanced, we have already recognized a number of technologies offering safety benefits to consumers. The safety case for AEB systems is very strong and we are therefore strongly encouraging manufacturers to increase the availability of such systems on new cars. We are well underway to add the assessment of these systems to the overall rating and to make these systems a requirement for five stars in the future."

The evaluation process is set to get harder over the coming years to put newer, more safety conscious cars to the test.

Read Euro NCAP reveals safest cars of 2011 on 5FWD

Geneva show debut for five-door Skoda Citigo

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:53:00 +0000

Skoda has announced that its five-door Citigo supermini will be formally unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.

The five-door version of the tiny Citigo comes just a week after the five-door Volkswagen Up was revealed. This means that news of the five-door SEAT Mii is not far away.

Engines on offer will remain the same in the five-door as the three-door model. Two are initially on offer, either a 60bhp or 75bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. Later a 68.9mpg and 96g/km Green tec variant will launch.

The Citigo will launch in mid-2012.

Read Geneva show debut for five-door Skoda Citigo on 5FWD

Facebook reveal for new Dodge Viper

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:11:00 +0000

Dodge and Chrysler’s SRT division has revealed a teaser image of the new Dodge Viper on its Facebook page.

The image is currently a car-shaped collection of white lines on a black background, but it does give a general impression of what we can expect from the car. The vent on its nose is awfully similar to the Viper GTS’ of old.

Ahead of the new Viper’s proper reveal at the New York Motor Show in April a scant few details are known. The new car will have traction control thanks to US Federal law and may have a naturally aspirated 8.7-litre V10 engine with 600bhp and 560lb ft.

Read Facebook reveal for new Dodge Viper on 5FWD

Speeding fines rising to £100

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:29:00 +0000

Speeding fines are set to rise from £60 to £100 to fund victim support schemes.

Justice Minister Ken Clarke is poised to raise the fine for being caught speeding £40 to £100. Not only will the rise cover speeding fines, but also for jumping red lights.

The extra cash will go toward victim support schemes to help those who have been on the wrong side of crime.

In 2010 the government reduced the amount of cash it received from speed cameras to aid its argument that it was ending the perceived ‘war on motorists’.

The £60 fine has been in force for the last ten years. While the fine is rising, the three penalty point punishment is not going to change.

Read Speeding fines rising to £100 on 5FWD

Women are better at parking than men

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:44:00 +0000

A survey from NCP car parks has found that women are better at parking their cars than men.

Using CCTV footage of 450 parkers, NCP watched to see how drivers parked by judging position, technique, accuracy and time taken. The parkers were then scored out of a possible 20 points. Women managed an average score of 13.4 and men only managed an average 12.3.

2,000 drivers were surveyed about their attitude to parking. Only 25 percent of the men surveyed were particularly bothered about their car’s position in a bay, while women revealed they were more careful about parking in the middle of a space.

It also found that 39 percent of women are more likely to reverse into a space compared to 28 percent of men. Not only that, but women will make more adjustments to their car’s position to make sure everything’s just so.

The survey also found that women take five seconds longer to park their cars than men.

For now at least, the battle of the parking sexes has been won.

Read Women are better at parking than men on 5FWD

New Renault range announced

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:09:00 +0000

Renault has announced its line up for 2012, dumping six cars and concentrating on seven core car and van models.

Renault has culled the Modus, Kangoo (car and van), Wind Roadster, Laguna and Espace to concentrate on a core seven model line up. The Gordini sub-brand has also been given the chop.

On the passenger car side the recently refreshed Megane, Scenic and Twingo head up the range; the current Clio remains.

The Megane gains a new, trick, engine – the 1.5 dCi 110 Stop & Start. It emits only 90g/km CO2 (a class leader) and consumes 80mpg.

Each car will only have three spec levels to choose from to avoid confusion while buying, and later selling, the cars. The Renaultsport sub-brand remains unaffected, however.

The electric Z.E. range will also appear from February. The range consists of the Fluence Z.E. saloon and a Twizy urban transport vehicle. The ZOE hatchback will join the range in the Autumn.

Read New Renault range announced on 5FWD

Chevrolet Volt cleared of fire-risk danger

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:39:00 +0000

General Motors' Chevrolet Volt has been cleared of the fire-risk danger that it has been under investigation for by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Volt came under scrutiny when a vehicle used for crash-testing by the NHTSA caught fire three weeks after the tests had been carried out last June. During a two-month hearing in which GM boss Dan Ackerson and the NHTSA testified, it was concluded that the Volt posed no more of a fire risk than a conventional petrol-powered car. The NHSTA test that provoked the fire was a roll-over that caused a puncturing of the car's battery pack.

In a subsequent hearing held before the US Government's Oversight Committee, Ackerson said that mentioning the General Motors name in the same phrase as fire, "causes collateral damage because it makes the market pause, so we're going to go about reconstructing that image."

In his testimony before the House panel, Akerson said GM and U.S. regulators had tried to replicate the initial fire and only once, under conditions unlikely to occur in the real world, was another fire triggered, the battery being pierced by a rod, rotated and then "drenched" in coolant fluid.

Despite being cleared as safe, Volt sales in the US have been slowed, GM saying that rather than building cars to meet a 45,000 unit sales target, it will manufacture cars to order. It is now embarking on a major marketing campaign to rehabilitate the car's image.

The Chevrolet Volt goes on sale here this March, followed by the mechanically identical Vauxhall Ampera in May.

Read Chevrolet Volt cleared of fire-risk danger on 5FWD

First production Aston Martin V12 Zagato to debut

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:25:00 +0000

The extremely rare, extremely expensive and extremely beautiful Aston Martin V12 Zagato coupe is about to go on sale.

The new car, which was first seen in May last year, will debut in production form at the Kuwait concours d' Elegance in mid-February.

Only 150 Zagatos will be made, each costing £330,000 excluding tax. And while that might be a lot compared to the Aston V12 Vantage on which it's based, it's an absolute bargain compared to the £1m Aston One-77.

Late 2012 will see the first customer cars delivered, each with a 6.0-litre V12 engine putting out 510bhp and 420lb ft. It comes with a six-speed manual gearbox and gets to 62mph in 4.2 seconds.

The body is hand made in Gaydon using aluminium and carbon fibre, and the Vantage's interior is re-upholstered in uniquely patterned leather with contrasing red stitching.

The striking Zagato has half a century of history behind it, having been conceived in homage to the DB4GT Zagato of 50 years ago. Aston, keen to shave weight from its DB5GT coupe, approached specialist coachbuilder Zagato to do the work.

Within a week the original Zagato Aston was born, and a partnership between the two companies began. Only 19 DB4GT Zagatos were made, and all still exist.

The V12 Zagato prototype debuted at the Villa D’Este Concours on Lake Como, Italy, picking up a couple of design awards, though the Kuwait show is the first time the production car will be seen.

Read First production Aston Martin V12 Zagato to debut on 5FWD

2012 manufacturer 130g/km CO2 target to be missed

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:45:00 +0000

A report from Clean Green Cars has revealed that many manufacturers won’t meet the government targets to have their ranges average 130g/km CO2.

It also states that many manufacturers will get away with it without having to pay any fines or be reprimanded in any way.

Currently only nine manufacturers (Fiat, Citroen, Toyota, SEAT, Lexus, MINI, Alfa Romeo, Peugeot and Hyundai) are under the 130g/km limit. Their range average outputs range from 116.31 g/km (Fiat) to 129.98g/km (Hyundai). Others may join the nine this year, but not all manufacturers will because they don’t have to.

Thanks to a series of loop holes the 130g/km for 2012 rule doesn’t apply to many car makers.

Manufacturers who make heavy cars are given higher targets to meet. Mercedes, whose ranges’ average weight is 1661kgs needs to hit a CO2 average of 143g/km.

Also, manufacturers who sell less than 300,000 cars in the EU have no set target to meet, just the proviso that their ranges are 25% less polluting than they were in 2007.

To find out more about manufacturers' CO2 outputs head to Clean Green Cars' CO2 Industry Analysis page.

Read 2012 manufacturer 130g/km CO2 target to be missed on 5FWD

New BMW M Performance sub brand launched

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:42:00 +0000

BMW has launched a new M Performance sub brand which specialises in sub-M versions of its road cars.

The first four cars have been revealed, two of which will be headed to the UK.

The BMW X5 M50d and X6 M50d will be headed to the UK while the x-drive M550d saloon and x-drive M550d Touring will be left-hand-drive only and not available in the UK.

Each of them will be powered by a new version of BMW’s 3.0-litre diesel engine which used three-turbos to produce huge power and torque figures while offering great fuel economy. The engine produces 376bhp and 545lb ft, that’s 44lb ft more than the new M5.

The X5 M50d sprints from 0-62mph in 5.4seconds while consuming 37.7mpg and emitting 199g/km CO2. The X6 M50d is a little quicker but also mildly worse for the environment – 0-62mph takes only 5.3seconds, fuel consumption stands at 36.7mpg and CO2 emissions are 204g/km.

The M550d cars are rather brisk, too. 62mph comes in just 4.7seconds with fuel consumption of 44.8mpg and emissions of only 165g/km.

As they aren’t full-blown M cars, the M Performance cars aren’t as ‘hardcore’. Their chassis’ have been modified to be sporty but not so much as an M3, for example.

Each car will be given a subtle M Performance bodykit to differentiate it from the rest of the range.

Prices for the X5 M50d and X6 M50 start at at £60,325 and £62,260 respectively.

Read New BMW M Performance sub brand launched on 5FWD

VW Up GT is confirmed

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:28:00 +0000

A sportier version of Volkswagen’s Up supermini, the Up GT, has been greenlit by VW bosses.

The sporty Up is set to come with a turbocharged 1.0-litre engine which produces 110bhp and uses a six-speed manual gearbox.

It’s based on the three-door model and the concept boasted a sporty body kit, 17-inch alloys, daytime running lights, a diffuser and twin exhausts.

It’ll be facing the likes of the Renaultsport Twingo 133 and the Fiat Panda 100hp on the roads, but VW’s sporting heritage may help its cause.

VW bosses are said to want to emulate the Mk 1 Golf GTI and not overpower the Up GT but make sure it’s light enough to have a surprising turn of pace.

Read VW Up GT is confirmed on 5FWD

MG to enter BTCC with Jason Plato

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:27:00 +0000

MG is set to enter this year’s BTCC season with cars based on its MG6 fastback.

The reborn car firm is entering the season’s first race at Brands Hatch on April 1st in a car built by BTCC legends Triple Eight Race Engineering. Triple Eight has been responsible for over 100 BTCC wins.

Dubbed MG KX Momentum Racing, the team will field two cars. One driven by Fifth Gear presenter and former-Chevrolet team driver Jason Plato, the other driven by BTCC rising star Andy Neate.

The suffixes after ‘MG’ in the team’s name relates to its sponsors – Tesco Fuels’ Momentum 99 ultra fuel and KX energy drink.

Plato commented: "It's really exciting to be involved in a brand-new all-British team and it's just brilliant that the iconic name of MG will be back on the track."

Alan Gow, BTCC series director and former touring car racer, said: “This high-profile return to the forefront of competition in the BTCC is also certain to prove highly effective in terms of marketing for MG and all of its partners, as well as delivering some great results for them on the track."

Read MG to enter BTCC with Jason Plato on 5FWD

Kia Optima

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 04:00:08 +0000

Read the full Kia Optima review on 5FWD

All-new Hyundai i30 - a genuine bargain

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:28:00 +0000

Hyundai is readying the all-new i30 hatchback for sale in the UK, and has announced prices and specifications.

Surprisingly, the i30 range begins higher than the benchmark Ford Focus, although true to form it still majors on value.

Starting at £14,495, it's £500 more to get on to the first rung of the i30 ownership ladder than into a Ford Focus, but the i30 is very well equipped for that price.

Standard kit on a Classic model includes voice activated Bluetooth, LED daytime running lights, air conditioning, electric heated door mirrors and hill start assist.

Further up the ladder is Active trim, which gets alloy wheels, rear parking sensors and Hyundai's new adaptive steering system. Top spec is Style, which adds dual-zone climate control, front parking sensors, active cornering headlamps and rain sensing windscreen wipers. If you want satellite navigation, Style Nav specification adds it.

The range tops out at just under £21,000 for a 1.6-litre CRDi diesel version with 108bhp and an automatic gearbox, though the most powerful version uses the same engine tuned to 128bhp, costing £20,295 in Style Nav spec.

The engine lineup starts with two 1.4-litre units, a diesel and a petrol, with the former putting out 89bhp and the latter 99bhp. The two 1.6-litre CRDi diesels are both available with Blue Drive technology, including start-stop, meaning the lowest emitting version spits out just 97g/km CO2.

Hyundai says that the new i30, which hits showrooms in early March, is better in every way than the outgoing car (it's unlikely to say otherwise, though) while remaining cheap to run. The 97g/km version costs nothing in annual VED, while owners across the board will enjoy low insurance costs and a five-year warranty.

Read All-new Hyundai i30 – a genuine bargain on 5FWD

Driving theory test is now harder

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:45:00 +0000

The driving theory test has just become more difficult.

Previously the entire list of questions and answers were available in training books, DVDs and software, which encouraged candidates to memorise them and whisk through the test with ease. This is no longer the case.

Books, software, DVDs and the like will still be available for learners to look at, but they’ll feature case studies and examples of incidents to make them think, rather than simply memorise multiple choice questions.

The move comes following an AA survey that revealed that 23 percent of drivers didn’t know who has priority when traffic lights weren’t working and a staggering 46 percent were not aware of what flashing amber lights at pelican crossings meant.

Changes to the test are effective immediately.

Mark Peacock, Head of AA Driving School, commented: "Learners should not unduly worry about the changes to the test. The new test calls for greater understanding, which can be gained from professional tuition and some time spent revising – both of which would have been needed to pass the theory test confidently before the changes.

Read Driving theory test is now harder on 5FWD

Five-door VW Up! revealed

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:44:00 +0000

A five door version of Volkswagen’s smallest car has been revealed.

The five-door version has the same 2.42 metre wheelbase as the three-door model, and shares its 251-litre boot.

Room in the back isn’t compromised by the extra doors either, there’s the same 947mm of headroom and 789mm of legroom. The rear seats, just as in the three-door, are raised to give the rear passengers a better view of the road ahead.

The Up! doesn’t get any new engines or tech – it shares the 1.0-litre three-cylinder lumps the three-door comes with, as well as also receiving its (£225 optional) Emergency Braking system, which automatically brakes the car if it detects you’re about to have an accident.

Also shared with the smaller car is the Maps & More infotainments system, which isn’t just a sat nav but doubles as a phone, info and entertainment portal. If your Up! is fitted with parking sensors, the information will be displayed on the screen. All very trick.

The Up! has already won awards – What Car? magazine declared it ‘Car of the Year’ while Top Gear magazine crowed it ‘Small Car of the Year’.

Deliveries of the five-door Up! will start in the second half of 2012. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but expect them to be a few hundred pounds higher than a three-door car.

Read Five-door VW Up! revealed on 5FWD

Exceptional rare Ferrari 410 Superamerica nets over £1m

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:39:00 +0000

An Arizona auction has seen a very special 1957 Ferrari 410 Superamerica Scaglietti sell for £1.1m.

The stunning, hand-made Ferrari fetched the highest price at an auction which generated over £16m in sales this weekend, and which included cars such as a 1959 BMW 507 Roadster (sold for £640,000), a Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spyder (also £640,000), and a Shelby 427 Cobra (£570,000).

Other cars on sale included a sensational 1993 Jaguar XJ220S, a 1958 Porsche 356A 1600 Speedster, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz SL 300 Gullwing, and a 1968 Aston Martin DB6.

But the 410 Superamerica, chassis s/n 0671 to be specific, stole the show. Its astonishing sale price reflects not only its rarity, but its unique provenance, having passed through the hands of one of Hollywood's most distinguished TV directors and Ferrari collectors, Greg Garrison.

Only 34 410s were ever made, each built to customer order so that no two were the same. This one was built for Italian entrepreneur Dottore Enrico Wax, who was famous for importing Johnny Walker whisky.

Enzo Ferrari himself suggested to Wax that his 410 be designed and built by legendary coachbuilder Carrozzeria Scaglietti, whose eponymous owner Sergio was a friend and would later build the iconic Ferrari 250 GTO.

Sergio set about making the 410 on a Ferrari chassis. But rather than designing it on paper first, he assembled steel tubes and hand beat the car into shape from aluminium panels, adding the distinctive fins as he went along.

Wax only held onto s/n 0671 for around one year before selling it, after which it passed to a number of owners before being stolen in the '70s. The car's body was removed by the thief, leaving just the steel frame and the drivetrain – a 4.9-litre, 340bhp V12 engine coupled to a four-speed manual transmission.

That was sold to a farmer in Oregon, who held onto it for years before it drew the attention of Greg Garrison. Garrison was so keen to get the chassis that, having heard it was knocking about the Oregon area, he put out advertisements offering a substantial cash payment for it.

He got it, then went to his old friend Enzo to see if it could be restored. Enzo authenticated the chassis (by looking at a picture of it) then had Sergio Scaglietti himself join the project.

Scaglietti took it by the scruff of the neck, even going as far as to re-hire four of the original workers who'd built the 410 back in '57 – each of whom had long since retired.

Two years after the project started, by 1990, the car was finished, and restored completely to its 1957 glory. It stayed with Garrison until he died in 2005, and the new owner sold it this weekend for the record price.

Auctions organiser RM Auctions has not revealed who has bought the car, or whether it will be displayed at future concours events.

Read Exceptional rare Ferrari 410 Superamerica nets over £1m on 5FWD

Audi A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:48:00 +0000

What is it?

It’s an Audi A1 with two extra doors and an extra seat. That’s pretty much it. The roofline is a tiny bit taller, too. The three-door A1 is a rather good little car, it’s nimble enough to make buzzing around town something of a pleasure, planted on the motorway and set up to make a bit of a stress relieving blast on a B-road quite a giggle. A good all-rounder, then.

Well, think of the Sportback in the same light – it’s the same with two extra doors. The cool thing about its two extra doors is that a big issue with the three-door has been resolved: rear visibility. You see, the three doors’ C-pillar is pretty massive and the rear windows are incredibly dinky, so your blind spots are pretty huge. The Sportback removes that problem entirely. Result.

The doors are, funnily enough, smaller than the regular A1’s because there’s only limited space on the car’s flanks and twice the doors to put there. This is a good thing because getting in and out of the three-door is a bit tricky in car parks and the like thanks to its MASSIVE portals. Thus far the Sportback is winning.

What’s it like?

As I said before – it’s like the three door but with more doors. There’s a slight size difference but nothing you’ll notice. If you do pay attention to that kind of thing you’re probably a bit sauvant-ish. Not a bad thing, mind.

It’s an Audi so comes with an interior that’ll last longer than you will, good looks, solid engines (more on them later) and a badge that’ll make people either hate you or want to be you. Thanks to its extra doors there’s now a third seat in the back for whoever draws the short straw and there’s also a touch more shoulder room. Which is nice.

All the engines in the Sportback are shared with the three-door, but one engine is being introduced with it – the COD.

COD, other than being a popular acronym for Call of Duty, stands for Cylinder on Demand. Thanks to some trick camshaft engineering, if the car thinks you don’t need to use all four cylinders (when you’re cruising, for example) it’ll turn the middle two off, leaving you running on two. It means you get better fuel economy on a varied run AND CO2 emissions to rival a small diesel engined car. We drove it on the yet to arrive 1.4-litre TFSI 140bhp petrol and, predictably, loved it.

Should I give it garage space?

Yes, it’s a pretty complete package. The doors are small enough to open without fear of car park dings, there’s enough room in the back for decently proportioned adults, it’s a blast to drive and you don’t have to worry too much about which engine you pick because they’re all pretty brilliant.

The interior’s top notch and, let’s be honest, driving an Audi will make you feel pretty good about yourself and your friends more than a little green around the gills.

If you need a small, practical hatchback you really should investigate the A1 Sportback.The COD engine is properly brilliant, too. While the 182bhp range topper would be the jock at school, the 140bhp COD will end up being its boss.

Rating

Specifications

Model: Audi A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD
Price: £13,980 – £18,425 (COD not priced)
Engine: 1.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol
Power: 140bhp
Torque: 184lb ft
Performance: 0-62mph – 8.1secs
Economy: 60.1mpg
CO2: 109g/km

Read Audi A1 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD on 5FWD

Porsche celebrates two million Facebook fans with special Cayman S

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:36:00 +0000

Porsche celebrates its Facebook fans with style yet again as two million people ‘like’ the brand on the popular social networking site.

To celebrate the milestone Porsche took a white Cayman S and stuck every one of the two million fans’ Facebook profile picture to it. The pictures have been tinted red to evoke the spirit of the classic, Le Mans winning, 917 race car.

If you’re a fan of the brand and want to find yourself there are two ways to go about it. You can head to the special website and use its search function or you can visit the Porsche museum in Stuttgart before January 27th to see it in the metal.

When the brand broke the 1,000,000 fan mark Porsche covered a 911 GT3 R Hybrid with 27,000 fans’ names added to the paintwork.

The celebration for passing 3,000,000 fan mark will probably be something just as impressive.

Read Porsche celebrates two million Facebook fans with special Cayman S on 5FWD

Renault Twingo prices announced

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:11:00 +0000

The facelifted version of Renault’s popular Twingo has finally been given a price.

The new car boasts new fog lamps, a ‘cheekier’ (Renault’s words) front end, revised bumper, fresh tailgate and new rear lights.

The basic 1.2-litre 16V 75 starts at £10,350, though prices will rise once options boxes have been ticked.

The new car, in dealerships from February, will be eligible for the new Renault 4+ programme. Worth £900, the 4+ scheme offers customers a four-year/100,000 mile warranty, free servicing for four years/48,000 miles and four years roadside cover, amongst others. It launches on February 1st.

The 1.2-litre engine available from launch boasts a combined fuel economy of 55.4mpg and emits a mere 119g/km of CO2.

Pricing and further details of the Renaultsport 133 model will be released later in the year.

Read Renault Twingo prices announced on 5FWD

Geneva Motor Show: Mitsubishi to unveil new family face

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:48:00 +0000

The Geneva Motor Show is coming in March and Mitsubishi is one of the first to give us a sneak peak at what its up to at the show.

A new family face is on the way for the Japanese firm as well as a new model entirely. The new car will be a ‘strategic and innovative premium vehicle’ designed to put Mitsubishi back on car buyers’ maps. It’ll be revealed at the show and popped in showrooms in Spring 2012.

Mitsubishi says the new family face, debuted in the fresh model, will be rolled out on its remaining range gradually.

New look, new tech and new image seems to be the aim of the game for Mitsubishi in 2012.

Read Geneva Motor Show: Mitsubishi to unveil new family face on 5FWD

Citroen competition makes you a star in new DS5

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:45:00 +0000

Citroen is offering five lucky competition winners the chance to drive the DS5 before anyone else.

The competition, accessible via the brand’s Facebook page, is offering winners the chance to have a weekend in St. Tropez and to record their own video review, Top Gear style, of the DS5.

The weekend away is themed: ‘The refined, redefined’, which is one of the key themes of the car.

To enter the competition you need to head to Citroen’s Facebook page, fill in your details and submit 50-100 words on why you feel you’re the right person to look down the barrel of a camera and tell the world how good the DS5 is… or isn’t.

Read Citroen competition makes you a star in new DS5 on 5FWD

Proton to be sold

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:47:00 +0000

Rumours that Proton will be selling Lotus are unfounded as news has broken that Proton itself will be sold.

The Malaysian firm posted losses of 76 percent at the end of last year, fuelling rumours that it would be selling its stake in Lotus to make up for the losses. Those rumours have proved to be unfounded as Proton itself will be sold.

The Malaysian government is selling its 43 percent share of Proton to DRB-Hicom, which is owned by billionaire Syed Mokhtar.

DRB-Hicom has a number of businesses including some automotive contracts. Currently it assembles vehicles for Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz. It currently owns eight plants, of which four assemble cars. The sale will add another two plants and 350,000 cars to DRB-Hicom’s portfolio.

Lotus’ future isn’t unsure at all, the company is safe. In a statement released this morning, a spokesperson said: "As far as we are aware, this situation changes nothing for Lotus, Proton's support in our development remains very strong and our focus, as always, is on the delivery of the business plan”.

Read Proton to be sold on 5FWD

Mercedes SLK 55 AMG price revealed

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:23:00 +0000

Mercedes has revealed the price of its flagship SLK, the 55 AMG model. Powered by a naturally aspirated 421bhp 5.5-litre V8, the new SLK 55 AMG smashes the 0-62mph sprint in just 4.6 seconds. Its top speed is limited to 155mph.

The car is available now and will set buyers back £54,950, around £50 less than a new BMW M3.

For a car with its surprising turn of pace, the SLK 55 AMG’s economy figures are its party piece. On the combined cycle it achieves 33.6mph and emits only 195g/km CO2. In a car with a smaller engine these figures would be terrible, however taking its 5.5-litre displacement into account it becomes far more impressive.

Options are plentiful, but one stands out – the AMG Driver’s Package. Ticking that box on the option list earns buyers an invite to an AMG Passion and Power event and the car’s top speed is raised from its 155mph limit.

Standard equipment includes leather, the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Light System, DAB digital radio, and AMG bodykit, AMG high-performance disc brakes and even a start/stop system. There’s no manual option available, only a the Mercedes 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic gearbox.

Interior trim is also dripping with AMG tweaks and there are few SLS-inspired design points as well.

Read Mercedes SLK 55 AMG price revealed on 5FWD

Saab's heritage fleet all for sale

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:07:00 +0000

Saab's sad demnise continues with the news that the company administrator, Delphi, has put its entire heritage museum up for sale.

Every one of the 120-plus cars in the Saab museum is now available to the highest bidder, as Delphi tries to drum up cash to pay off the company's massive debts.

The collection – naturally the most complete and unblemished inventory of Saabs in the world – should make a tidy sum for the remains of a company that's been on the rocks for years now. It's an especially poignant, conclusive chapter in the company's history.

The earliest car in the collection is a 1946 Saab 92001, known as the Ursaab and the beginning of the automobile company, athough the fleet spans Saab's entire history, including last editions of its current lineup.

A one-off 9-6X SUV, based on the Subaru B9 Tribeca and never put on sale, is included, as is 2006's Aero-X concept.

Unfortunately, Saab's last big motor show concept, Geneva 2011's PhoeniX, is not on the books.

Buyers are asked to submit email or faxed bids for any of the cars by noon on Friday 20 January.

It seems that Saab really is no more.

Read Saab’s heritage fleet all for sale on 5FWD

MINI fire scare prompts global recall

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:56:00 +0000

MINI has recalled 235,000 cars because of the possibility they could burst into flames.

The BMW-owned company has issued a worldwide recall notice on turbocharged petrol models produced between March 2006 and January 2011. Around 30,000 cars in the UK are affected.

The problem relates to a water pump for the turbocharger in Cooper S and JCW models. The unit's faulty electric circuit board can overheat, causing smoldering and the potential for fire.

And although it's highly unlikely that any MINI will spontaneously combust, there have been four cases of cars bursting into flames as a result of the issue – one in the UK. Nobody has been injured as a result of the problem.

VOSA is now involved, making this an official recall, and is investgating two of a total of seven reported incidents in the UK.

MINI says it is in the process of sending letters to all affected owners, but that anyone concerned can take their car to a dealership now to have the offending circuit board replaced free of charge.

This is not the first time that MINI has suffered an unwanted pyrotechnic adventure: some first-generation BMW-era MINIs were blighted by power steering pumps with the same circuitry problem, leading to smoldering parts, but no fires.

Read MINI fire scare prompts global recall on 5FWD

Jimmy Savile's live-in Range Rover for sale

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:49:00 +0000

A Range Rover ordered by the late Sir Jimmy Savile and converted to contain a sink and double bed is about to be sold at auction.

The 1978 Range Rover Classic was bought new by Sir Jimmy and converted by a company called Searle of Sunbury-on-Thames, who specialised in 'Carawagon' conversions on Land Rover products, specifically 109s. They fixed it for Jim, you might say.

But the company, later renamed Carawagon International, made a small quantity of converted Range Rovers, one of which was this one.

Sir Jimmy used his as a home when he was on the road between charity events in the '80s. He sold it after a few years, though the original logbook is still with the car, containing his signature.

Bought originally for around £3,000, it's expected to fetch over £16,000 at its February auction, due to be held at Mercedes-Benz World Brooklands.

The car's conversion comprises a wash basin in place of the centre console, curtains around the rear windows and a full-size double bed behind the front seats.

Read Jimmy Savile’s live-in Range Rover for sale on 5FWD

Jaguar launches cheapest XF ever

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:30:00 +0000

Jaguar says its new diesel XF offers "greater value than ever before," which is another way of saying it's the cheapest way ever into the executuve saloon.

The XF 2.2 Diesel 163 is a down-tuned version of the recently unveiled XF Diesel, using the same 2.2-litre engine but with power lowered from 190bhp to 163bhp.

The 27bhp loss means £1,000 chopped off the list price, so the XF range now starts under £30,000 for the first time. It's £29,950 for an XF 2.2 Diesel SE.

Fuel economy, however, stays the same with the lower power output, pegged at 52.3mpg with emissions of 149g/km. VED payments, it follows, stay the same too: both XF Diesels are in Band F, which costs £130 per year.

Sadly the 0-62mph time goes down, from 8.5 seconds in the more powerful diesel to 9.8 in this new version. Top speed is 130mph.

The new XF Diesel is on sale now, with first deliveries expected in March.

Read Jaguar launches cheapest XF ever on 5FWD

Audi launches self-driving car at CES Show

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:27:00 +0000

At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show many car manufacturers have been displaying what’s coming for their brands. New sat nav and UI systems have been shown off, but Audi’s reveal is one of the more interesting on display.

Audi’s new Traffic Jam Assistant takes full control of the car when it senses the driver is an a queue by assuming control of the throttle, brakes and steering. It’ll be available in cars like the A8 as early as next year, though is currently in the development stages.

The system uses radar cruise control, cameras and sensors to read the road ahead of the car and tracks what’s going on. The system’s many cameras monitor what’s going on and will react accordingly – if a pedestrian, child, cat, cyclist or other hazard rolls out in front of the car it will take action.

Traffic Jam Assistant will work at speeds of up to 37mph, which is rather rapid for traffic, but could make the commute home somewhat easier.

Read Audi launches self-driving car at CES Show on 5FWD

SEAT makes Ibiza supermini smarter

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:55:00 +0000

SEAT has given the Ibiza supermini a mid-life facelift, making it better looking and greener. Very green, in the case of this picture.

The Ibiza has been a resounding success so far for SEAT, blending rakish looks with the VW piggybacking build quality that the Spanish company utilises across its range. The Ibiza is arguably SEAT's most stylish, most youth-oriented, and most unique car.

So, this new version gets a visual update, most notably by way of sleek new headlamps, which are now available with optional daytime running LEDs. The colour scheme and trim options are revised too, naturally.

The interior gets a mild redesign to make it both better looking and easier to operate, while the innovative dash top docking station that neatly integrates an optional sat nav unit is now compatible with SEAT's Portable Media System. That's the removable, touch screen sat nav and entertainment unit that Volkswagen introduced with the Up, and which SEAT and Skoda have both taken as their own.

The Ibiza is now cheaper to run across the range, especially the E Ecomotive version which, powered by a 1.2-litre TDI engine with 74bhp, returns 83.1mpg and 89g/km. All body styles (ST estate, three-door SC and five-door hatch) get that engine.

The 148bhp 1.4-litre TSI version – that's the super- and turbocharged one – now goes into the ST, too, making for a sporty small estate.

And the quickest diesel of the range remains the 141bhp 2.0-litre TDI FR, with SEAT the only manufacturer shoehorning such a potent oil burner into a supermini; a virtually identical engine is found in the Audi A4, remember.

The new Ibiza goes on sale in Spring, with a revised FR version to follow later in 2012.

Read SEAT makes Ibiza supermini smarter on 5FWD

Third generation Porsche Boxster coming

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:11:00 +0000

Porsche has announced that the latest generation of its Boxster sports car will go on sale on 28th of April.

In a case of gentle evolution, rather than a complete overhaul, Porsche has chosen to make small tweaks to focus what is already considered one of the greatest sports cars currently available.

A wider track, longer wheelbase and a reduction in weight all help to increase the Boxster’s dynamic ability, whilst additional changes, such as a new electric power steering system and direct fuel injection, increase fuel economy.

Official consumption figures for the Boxster include a combined fuel economy of 36.7mpg (35.3mpg for the more powerful ‘S’ model). Impressive, considering it is fitted with a powerful 2.7-litre engine (3.4 in the ‘S’), capable of propelling the car from 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds.

Porsche claims that versions equipped with its PDK dual-clutch gearbox will perform better than those with manual gearboxes, in terms of both performance and efficiency.

Further revisions include a new fully electric roof, a revised aerodynamic profile and the option of a limited slip-differential, for particularly keen drivers.

The Boxster also sports a new interior, which is inspired by the simple yet functional cockpit of the ultra rare Porsche Carrera GT supercar.

Prices for the new Porsche Boxster start at £37,589, with the Boxster S available from £45,384.

Read Third generation Porsche Boxster coming on 5FWD

Kia Optima on sale from February 1st

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:43:00 +0000

The Kia Optima, the latest family saloon from the Korean manufacturer, will go on sale from the 1st of February.

The latest model to show off Kia’s bold new design direction, the Optima’s striking looks will appeal to those who do not wish to sacrifice aesthetics in the pursuit of cost effective motoring.

It’s equally likely to appeal to business users. With CO2 emissions of just 128g/km and a combined fuel economy of 57.6mpg (provided you choose the six-speed manual gearbox), the Optima should prove very economical for such a large car.

It will be available only with a 1.7-litre diesel engine developing 134bhp and 239lb ft of torque.

Four trim levels are available, with even the entry level version being well equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, leather steering wheel, cruise control and all-around electric windows. Mid-level trims include ‘Luxe’ and ‘Tech’ , which add sporty styling addenda, and an increased number of electronic options – including touch screen satellite navigation – respectively. Fully heated/air conditioned electric leather seats, keyless go and automatic parking assist are also available on the top of the range model.

The Optima is also covered by a seven year, 100,000 mile warranty. Prices start from £19,595.

Read Kia Optima on sale from February 1st on 5FWD

Vauxhall Ampera now available for order

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:22:00 +0000

Vauxhall has opened the order books for its range extended electric vehicle, the Ampera.

There are three models to choose from: the top-spec Electron and mid-spec Positiv are available to order now, while the base model will be available to order in May.

The top-spec Electron will cost £33,995 (including £5k Government plug-in car grant) and comes with a colour touch screen, sat nav, BOSE stereo, DVD video player, 30GB HDD (for music) and voice controlled nav, phone and music systems.

Positiv, the mid-range spec, will set buyers back £32,250 (including £5k Government grant) and is laden with leather interior, heated front seats, Bluetooth and cruise control.

The base model doesn’t have a special name, but it does have a special price – £29,995. For their money buyers get alloy wheels and as yet unspecified tech.

Vauxhall is also pleased to announce its aftersales service for the Ampera. Customers will be treated to their own Ampera specialists during the sales and aftersales process to oversee and look after the car. As well as this, Ampera dealers will pick up and drop off customers' cars when servicing, warranty and repair work is needed.

As well as the above, Vauxhall is offering a service called ‘MyAmpera’, which links owners with their own Ampera agent should any questions or concerns arise.

Read Vauxhall Ampera now available for order on 5FWD

Hot Audi Q3 previewed by Vail concept

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:22:00 +0000

Audi has used the Detroit Motor Show to unveil a vision for a top-of-the-range Q3 crossover.

Called the Vail, the concept is specifically aimed at American buyers, and even more specifically (and strangely), those into skiing in Colorado.

However, with its flared wheelarches, huge 20-inch rims and full body kit, it previews a possible Q3 S. It also happens to have a 2.5-litre turbo engine with 310bhp – the same engine that powers the RS3 and TT RS. In those cars it has 335bhp.

The engine means the Vail, says Audi, can hit 62mph in 5.5 seconds and reach 163mph.

Of course, the snowboarding and skiing addenda of the Vail is useless to most of us here in the UK, but strip that stuff away – the roof racks, integrated heated drinks flask and heated cusions for the tailgate – and you've got a Q3 S.

The Vail's 2.5-litre drivetrain is not new, and Audi is already planning to bring it to the UK – though how the car will be badged is not yet official.

It's too early for Audi to say what the 2.5-litre Q3 will cost, but figure on a £35,000 list price. That will buy all kinds of kit, though, including 19-inch allo wheels, a sports body kit and interior including part-leather bucket seats, dual-zone climate control and an S tronic dual clutch automatic transmission.

The car will compete with the performance variant of the Range Rover Evoque currently under development, which is rumoured be powered by a tuned version of the new Focus ST's 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbo engine, developing around 300bhp.

Read Hot Audi Q3 previewed by Vail concept on 5FWD

Kia shows brand new Cee'd

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:25:00 +0000

Kia has released an image of the next generation Cee'd, which has become a much more visually arresting sight.

The Cee'd has arguably underpinned Kia's rise to prominence over the last half a decade or so. It was Kia's first realistic crack at matching Europe's best hatchbacks like-for-like, and has provided a platform from which Kia has grown significantly, with a raft of stylish new models.

The latest versions of the Sorento 4×4, Rio supermini and Picanto city car are examples of the company's shifting emphasis on affordable style and quality.

This one will offer more of everything, obviously. Kia keeps calling it the "sophisticated new Cee'd" – not sophisticated enough to drop the superfluous apostrophe in the name though, sadly.

More sophistication suggests improved cabin quality and refinement, and a greater emphasis on technology.

Kia is saying nothing, though, so we'll have to wait until its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show for full details. We do know it will go on sale in the UK in June 2012, however.

Read Kia shows brand new Cee’d on 5FWD

Vauxhall makes a small Mokka

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:23:00 +0000

Vauxhall has sensationally unveiled a brand new Nissan Juke rival, called Mokka.

The tiny SUV is just a little bigger than the Juke, but will finally give the Nissan a direct rival when it goes on sale towards the end of 2012. Ford is also planning to join the B-segment SUV pack at about the same time, with the Fiesta-based EcoSport.

This is built on Corsa underpinnings, which you could probably have assumed from the looks – the front end is pure Corsa, while in general it's like a shrunken Vauxhall Antara, unsurprisingly.

And, in fact, that's what Vauxhall sees it as, because the Mokka has been endowed with proper off-road capability. It'll be no Land Rover, but 4×4 versions will go on sale, providing four-wheel traction thanks to a clever clutch that sends torque to the rear wheels when needed.

The majority of the time the car will operate in front-wheel drive mode to conserve fuel, and most Mokkas sold will be front-wheel drive only.

Engine choice will be limited to three from the off: a 1.6-litre petrol unit with 113bhp; a 1.4-litre turbo petrol with 138bhp; and a 128bhp 1.7-litre CDTI diesel unit. No economy or emissions figures yet.

All cars will come with hill descent control and hill start assist as standard, bolstering their off road credentials, and technology on the options list includes camera that recognise road signs, lane departure warning and a front impact detection system.

Vauxhall hasn't said how much the high-riding Mokka will cost, but we're expecting a starting price in the region of £15,000. For that price, the interior – yet to be unveiled – is likely to mimic the Corsa in design but be built with better materials.

The boot is, with the rear seats folded down, significantly larger than the Juke's: 1,372 litres compared to just 830 in the Nissan. We're not told what the standard capacity is.

The Mokka is due to be officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Read Vauxhall makes a small Mokka on 5FWD

Brand new Ford Mondeo shown

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:44:00 +0000

Ford has today unveiled the all-new Mondeo, to coincide with the launch of the American version at the Detroit Motor Show.

America's car is called the Fusion – no relation to our Fusion. Despite the differing name, it's actually another Ford 'global' car, meaning it's exactly the same as Europe's Mondeo.

So, despite the picture you see here being the official European car, due in early 2013, we don't know a great deal about it; all the drivetrain and specification we have today relates to the Fusion. Market requirements mean that engines and trim vary from country to country.

But because we know that the Fusion will be launched with a hybrid, and that it's built on a chassis capable of taking a 4×4 drivetrain, Europe is likely to get those. The Fusion hybrid can travel at speeds up to 62mph on electric power alone – twice that of the Toyota Prius.

Ford promises the best cabin quality ever, meaning the fourth generation Mondeo will come even closer to the BMW 3 Series to which we always compare it. It is longer and taller, for greater rear head- and legroom, although it is a little narrower, so it should be easier to park.

Technology will feature heavily, which is to say that Ford will, as with the Focus, push the car's raft of interesting safety and convenience technology from launch. Kit includes a lane keeping system, self-parking, adaptive cruise control, and a cutting edge touch screen infotainment system. Ford's MyKey will feature too, limiting the speed the car can be driven at, among other things.

Class-leading CO2 emissions are promised, and although the engine lineup is a long way from being confirmed, we can guess:1.6- and 2.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engines and diesels of the same capacity, closely related to today's range, although with much improved economy and performance.

The European Mondeo is due to be properly launched at the Geneva Motor Show in March, at which point we'll get a few headline figures, no doubt.

Read Brand new Ford Mondeo shown on 5FWD

VW E-Bugster makes Detroit show debut

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:40:00 +0000

Volkswagen has drawn its lines in the electric car war at the Detroit motor show with the all-electric E-Bugster concept.

The E-Bugster sees a regular Beetle’s roof chopped by three-inches and massive 20-inch wheels popped at each corner to help it stand out from the rest of the Beetle lineup. It’s also undergone a rather fetching facelift front and back to incorporate LED lights that will sit on all electric VW products.

Under the rear seats and boot sit 695lbs of batteries which will power the E-Bugster’s 114bhp, 199lb ft Blue-e-motion electric engine.

VW says it’ll be good for 100miles, about the same as a Nissan Leaf, and will charge up to 80% in 30 minutes with a Level 3 quick charger.

While we’re not likely to see the E-Bugster on the road, we are likely to see the Blue-e-motion tech hit the Golf fairly soon. So why has it been previewed in the Beetle? The Beetle, especially with E-Bugster modifications, is far more exciting to look at than a Golf.

Read VW E-Bugster makes Detroit show debut on 5FWD

Renault facelifts the Megane with 80mpg version

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:17:00 +0000

Renault has unveiled the 2012 model year Megane hatchback, making it althogether more appealing.

The updated range is better looking, more pleasant to be in, more powerful (in one particular case) and more economical.

The better looking part is thanks to a fairly standard set of cosmetic changes, most notably at the front. There's a set of daytime LEDs now (a common update these days), some gloss black trim and a mild bumper re-shaping. Two new colours are available, too, basically shades of blue and white.

In the cabin, new materials and trim options make the Megane a more welcoming place to sit; GT-Line versions now get contrasting stitching for the leather interior and the steering wheel, and Renault Sport badges for the sill guards.

The flagship Renaultsport version is now called the RS 265, which denotes a power hike over the old RS 250, following the special Trophy edition unveiled recently. The extra 15bhp comes partly from a more free flowing, louder exhaust system, while a slight torque increase makes acceleration stronger and "crisper", according to Renault.

At the more pedestrian end of the range, however, the Megane becomes especially alluring, thanks to a new trio of engines featuring start-stop. The most economical of them, a dCi 110 1.5-litre diesel, returns a staggering 80.7mpg with 90g/km CO2. That means its tax disc is free.

The higher powered dCi 130 doesn't fare too badly either, returning 70.6mpg and 104g/km.

The third of them is a TCe 115 petrol engine, a 1.2-litre unit that Renault claims is the most powerful 1.2 ever made. It manages a diesel rivalling 53.3mpg and has a 620-mile tank range, in theory.

The new Megane range is available from April.

Read Renault facelifts the Megane with 80mpg version on 5FWD

Chevy Volt has battery changed to avoid fire risk

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 15:57:00 +0000

The Chevrolet Volt has undergone some changes to its battery pack to avert a possible fire risk.

The risk was caused by a coolant leak, triggered by an impact, which would cause an electrical fire days or weeks after the event.

Chevrolet Volt battery pack fix avoids fires.

The Chevrolet Volt came under fire late last year after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that after a crash coolant would leak onto the battery and could cause a fire a few days or weeks later.

Naturally, this is a problem and Chevrolet set out to fix it. That said, the company did comment that since launch Volt owners have driven nearly 20 million miles and haven’t had a single instance of the issue. The company also pointed out that the Volt achieved a full five EuroNCAP rating in the EU.

After much research and testing, Chevrolet has found a solution to the problem:

Strengthen an existing portion of the Volt’s vehicle safety structure to further protect the battery pack in a severe side collision
Add a sensor in the reservoir of the battery coolant system to monitor coolant levels
Add a tamper-resistant bracket to the top of the battery coolant reservoir to help prevent potential coolant overfill.

Since implementing the changes the American company has not been able to replicate the firey fault.

Mary Barra, GM senior vice president of Global Product Development, commented: “These enhancements and modifications will address the concerns raised by the severe crash tests…There are no changes to the Volt battery pack or cell chemistry as a result of these actions.”

Read Chevy Volt has battery changed to avoid fire risk on 5FWD

Saab to produce final cars

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:40:00 +0000

The drawn out saga surrounding the fate of Saab seems to have reached its conclusion, but the firm’s production lines are to roll once more.

Saabs United has stated that a small group of employees will return to work to complete the 100 or so cars that are still on the production line. Once finished, these final cars are likely to be sold in Europe.

Although Saab is now officially bankrupt, the marque may live on, thanks to interest being expressed from both a Turkish consortium and the Indian car manufacturer Mahindra. It looks like the story of Saab may not quite be over yet.

Read Saab to produce final cars on 5FWD

Dacia announces Lodgy MPV

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:01:00 +0000

Romanian car manufacturer Dacia is to unveil its first MPV, named Lodgy, at the Geneva motor show in March.

Largely based on the Renault Scenic (Renault being Dacia’s parent company), it will be available with either five or seven seats. Dacia promises that the rear-most seats will have enough room to accommodate adults, rather than the token efforts often seen in cars of this type.

Dacia has yet to confirm whether it is to market the Lodgy in the UK. Should it be given the go ahead, expect it to be launched alongside Dacia’s Duster Crossover and Sandero Supermini in January 2013.

Prices are also, as yet, undecided. However, with the Duster expected to cost a very reasonable £12,000, the Lodgy should represent similar value for money, and come with a three year warranty and the proven reliability and safety of its Renault platform.

Read Dacia announces Lodgy MPV on 5FWD

BMW drivers use their horns most

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:34:00 +0000

Car sales website webuyanycar.com surveyed 2000 drivers and found that that BMW are the most likely to admit to using their horns a little too often.

53 percent of BMW drivers owned up to being overzealous with their honkers, admitting to using them at least once during every trip. That’s three times the national average of 18 percent.

Conversely, 95% of Nissan drivers claim to not use theirs at all – apart from when necessary and legal, of course.

Other drivers didn’t fare quite as well as Nissan pilots. Jaguar (45 percent), Fiat (43 percent), Audi (39 percent) and Saab (29 percent) drivers all admit to being a touch jumpy with their horns.

They give many excuses for over using their horns: another driver pulled out in front of me, I was alerting a vehicle taking too long at the lights, alerting other road users to danger, another driver was on their phone and I wanted to let them know how I feel about that, a cyclist was badly positioned on the road or, finally, to alert other users to my presence on a twisty road.

The Highway Code advises drivers to only use the horn when you’re on the move and you need to let other drivers know you’re there. Ideally horns will be silent between 11.30pm and 7am, too, unless another driver needs to know you’re there.

Read BMW drivers use their horns most on 5FWD

Wind driving tips from the IAM

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 14:57:00 +0000

The Institute of Advanced Motorists has published advice for drivers who may be struggling with the unusually windy conditions.

The unseasonal weather may have taken a few drivers by surprise, hence the advice. It comes alongside the launch of drivingadvice.org.uk, which provides hints and tips for driving in all sorts of adverse weather.

IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger commented: "I have seen a parked car moved by the wind. Don't underestimate how powerful it is and how it can affect you whilst in the car."

The organisation suggests you do the following as long as the nasty weather continues –

• Plan your journey – is there a route with less exposure to the weather and less risk of fallen trees? Choose a sheltered route if you have the option.

• Strong winds are not constant, they are usually gusty so ensure you hold the steering wheel firmly.

• Overtaking high sided vehicles or driving past buildings can result in a sudden gust from the side as you clear.

• Give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual. They get blown around by side winds easily.

• Watch trees and bushes on the roadside – their branches show you how strong the wind is. Look well ahead, that way you don't need to take your eye off the road and you can see any windy patches before you get to them.

• Go slow enough to cope with the gusts. Wind can get under a car and reduce its handling and braking significantly.

• Keep an eye on what is happening to other vehicles – where they are affected will give you a pre warning.

• Keep extra distance between you and the car in front.

• Be careful of debris, try and have space beside you in case you need to dodge it.

Read Wind driving tips from the IAM on 5FWD

Proton financial issues could see Lotus stake sold

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:02:00 +0000

In the last quarter Proton saw a 76 percent drop in its profits. As a result of this there are rumours flying that the Malaysian company may sell its stake in Lotus Group International and concentrate on making the smaller, less prestige cars it built its reputation on.

A Bloomberg report revealed the move and Gen Eng Peng, head of HwangDBS Investment Management Bhd (one of Proton’s investors) believes the sale will go ahead.

He commented: "It will make sense for them to sell it… Proton and lotus are not a good fit. They are in different market segments, both in terms of geography and product"

Lotus’ current CEO, Dany Bahar, has previously stated that without Proton’s money his plan to release his ultra-luxury concepts wouldn’t be able to happen. If these rumour turn out to be true, Lotus’ launch schedule may change rather quickly…

Read Proton financial issues could see Lotus stake sold on 5FWD

Saab to be saved?

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:59:00 +0000

Late in 2011 Saab filed for bankruptcy after negotiations to sell the company fell through.

Largely this was down to former parent company GM refusing to let Saab be sold to Chinese companies as they were worried that various components would make their way into future competitor products. All hope seemed lost for the company.

Now, Saab’s receivers Hans Bergqvist and Anne-Marie Pouteaux have revealed that offers have been made for the Swedish manufacturer.

They said: "The contacts made so far have been positive and provide real hope that there may be alternatives, and even combinations of solutions that could result in some continued activity and a suitable development of the bankruptcy estate".

Two interested parties are rumoured to be a Turkish consortium and Mahindra, the Indian car company.

No firm offers have been made yet, so don’t hold your breath for a positive outcome. Especially if General Motors doesn’t like the look of a potential buyer.

Read Saab to be saved? on 5FWD

Police Evasive Driving

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 19:55:00 +0000

With the Royal Family and Prime Minister on their list of customers, the drivers of the Police Tactical Firearms Unit have a host of evasive driving skills up their sleeves. Vicki is given exclusive access to one of their top-secret training days at an RAF base, where she’s taught some of the driving skills required to keep Britain’s VIPs safe.
Watch Police Evasive Driving on 5FWD

Shoot-Out: Mini Cooper SD vs SEAT Ibiza FR TDI

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 19:55:00 +0000

The Mini Cooper SD and SEAT Ibiza FR TDI both have incredible sounding performance and economy figures – they can achieve over 60mpg, but get to 0-60 in just 8 seconds. Tiff takes these incredibly economical hot hatches to a twisty racing track to simply find out which one is fastest.
Watch Shoot-Out: Mini Cooper SD vs SEAT Ibiza FR TDI on 5FWD

LA Motorshow

fwd@five.tv (Fifth Gear) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 19:55:00 +0000

The LA motorshow is by far the most glamorous show on the petrolhead’s calendar – an opportunity for car makers to show their extravagant concept cars and future models. Jonny heads to LA to bring us the best the show has to offer, including a test drive of a Land Rover concept car which won’t go on sale until 2015.

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Watch LA Motorshow on 5FWD