The new Fiesta marks the latest chapter in the journey of the popular small car. Ford launched the first Fiesta in 1976 and has since sold more than 15 million models around the world.

The supermini’s refreshed face is dominated by a trapezoidal front grille, laser-cut headlamps with daytime LED running lamps and a power-dome bonnet design.

New features and technology are in abundance – such as Active City Stop – a system designed to help drivers avoid low speed collisions – and MyKey, which allows parents to encourage safer driving and limit their teenager’s exposure to risk at the wheel. Ford also has equipped new Fiesta with Ford SYNC, a voice-activated in-car connectivity system, and SYNC Emergency Assistance, that directly connects vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident.

Perhaps the most significant result of the makeover is the addition of a new engine to the line-up, a 1.0 litre three-cylinder EcoBoost, offered in three power outputs. Tested here is the 99bhp mid-ranger, which coughs out a mere 99g/km CO₂ and returns a combined 65.7 mpg.

Given its diminutive capacity, 170 Nm of Torque at 1400 rpm is impressive – and results in the little motor being very tractable. If worked hard it’ll deliver decent levels of performance (112 mph and 0-62 in 11.2 seconds), along with an intoxicating off-beat soundtrack that entertains when you want it to, although a slight criticism being that it can still be heard when cruising.

The Fiesta remains one of the best hatchbacks to drive, with communicative steering, slick gear change and a well sorted chassis that carries off the clever trick of being both comfortable, yet also dynamically engaging.

Fiesta’s interior now feels plusher too. The new gloss black ‘flow through’ insert, merging together dash and centre console being worthy of note, as are the redesigned door handles and new centre armrest.

Although not cheap at £14,945, equipment on this Titanium spec car includes Quickclear windscreen, leather-steering wheel, electric foldable mirrors, SONY DAB audio, air-conditioning, cruise, auto-dimming mirror and auto wipers.

Verdict:

Following a nip and a tuck, the benchmark supermini has come back stronger than ever. Fiesta is now more sophisticated in looks and technology, whilst new engines have made it greener and cheaper to run.

Tech Spec:

Ford Fiesta 1.0-litre EcoBoost Start/Stop
OTR PRICE: £14,945
Max Power: 99 bhp @ 6000rpm
Torque: 170 Nm@ 1400-4500 rpm
Max Speed: 112 mph
Acceleration: 0-62 in 11.2 seconds
Acceleration: 65.7 mpg (combined)
CO₂ emissions: (g/km) 99

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Classic Cars in the Chestnut Sunday Parade, Bushy Park, May 2013.

Classic Cars, Chestnut Sunday 2013

Classic cars, taxis and utility vehicles. Chestnut Sunday. May 2013

14 Photos

An excellent opportunity to view, talk to the owners and photograph the cars after the parade.  I’ve always found the owners friendly and are usually keen to show their cars.

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Military Vehicles Bushy Park May 2013

Chestnut Sunday Parade, Busy Park, May 2013

13 Photos

After the parade most of the vehicles are parked up and generally the owners are happy to talk to you or let you take photos.

One chap I was talking to last year reckoned that he and two other friends had so many vehicles now that they actually have more military hardware than a third of the countries in the world.

These guys are out most weekends on some charity do or other, do corporate events, filming and some organise action half day training.

Chestnut Sunday itself

Chestnut Sunday is organised the Royal Parks usually on the second Sunday of May.  It reflects the flowering of the chestnut trees.

It used to be a Victorian tradition that many people would come to park from London and parade with their Sunday best and show off their cycling skills.

Bushy Park, the venue, was home to Eisenhower, the then Supreme Commander of Allied Forces.  Much of the planning for D-Day was made in tents in the park.  This is how the military vehicles became involved.

The parade includes classic cars, classic bikes, motor cycles -ancient and modern, scooters – including some now much older Mods and local societies.

In the afternoon there is music, many stalls, a battle from a historical society, fair ground and  food.

It is easy to occupy the family and sneak off to look at, and photograph, cars etc.

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Who says family cars have to be dull… not Kia, that’s for sure. Their all-new third generation Carens now has the sharp looks to match its load lugging and family hauling credentials.

The awkward lumpy bumpy looks of the old model have long gone, replaced with a sleek and sophisticated profile in-line with Kia’s new style direction, featuring the signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille.

Yet interior cabin space hasn’t been compromised by the swanky looks either: a 50mm increase in wheelbase and lower seat positions mean head and legroom is aplenty and you’ll find a places dotted around to stash your stuff, including under floor cubbies and enormous door pockets incorporating bottle holders.

There’s three trim levels. We’ve got the top spec fully loaded grade ‘3’ (lucky us!) flaunting such luxuries as fully opening panoramic glass roof, parking camera, leather trim, heated steering wheel and heated wipers!

All variants get seven seats, cruise control, air-con, clean-air purification, heated mirrors, glovebox cooling, six speaker audio with iPod/ MP3connectivity and Bluetooth.

Standard safety kit includes Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Management and Electronic Stability Control.

Carens comes available with a 133 bhp petrol engine capable of returning 44.1 mpg and a 1.7 diesel offered in two states of tune – 114 bhp and 134 bhp. Emissions for these are 60.1mpg and 124g/km and 56.4mpg and 132g/km respectively. Kia’s Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) engine stop-start system is standard on all manual-gearbox models.

In the cabin:

Stepping inside the new Carens is a genuinely pleasing experience. Forget Kia’s of old, this one has the ambience and quality feel rivalling many European rivals. We appreciated the mix of soft touch plastics, aluminium inserts and piano black glossy finishes. Our only quibbles being a small infotainment screen and lack of sat nav.

On the road:

Driving around the twisty roads of Millbrook, the Carens shows itself to be a competent, if unexciting steer. Body roll is well controlled and there’s more than enough grip and the brakes are worthy of praise, too -  but you won’t be grinning ear-to-ear savouring every nuance of steering input as you press on along twisty B-roads. This is a family car after all. If viewed in that context we doubt you’ll find cause for complaint. More useful is the car’s inherent drive train smoothness that allows gear changes to be undertaken without any jolt or jerk… now that’s surely to be appreciated by everyone on board. As is the level of refinement: the smooth ride effectively irons out the appalling state of British roads and noise intrusion is well suppressed, although the 1.7 diesel can get a little gruff when extended. Performance for an MPV is more than sufficient and the slick 6-speed gearbox works like a knife through butter.

Verdict:

Like its predecessors, the Carens is built for family life, with a plethora of day-to-day functionality.
Traditional brand values of reliability and peace-of-mind (all Kia’s come with a seven year / 100,000 mile warranty) have now been joined by desirable looks and significantly improved cabin trim quality and mechanical refinement.
Consequently the Carens now isn’t simply the family car you ought to have –  it’s the one you’ll probably want, too.

Tech spec:

Kia Carens ‘3’ 1.7 CRDi manual
OTR PRICE: £23,895
Max Power: 134 bhp @ 4,000rpm
Max Torque: 244 Lb ft @2,000-2500 rpm
Max speed: 119 mph
Acceleration: 0-60 in 10.0 seconds
Claimed MPG: (combined) 56.4
C0₂ emissions: (g/km) 132

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Desirability and unique appeal have always been the car’s key selling points, with countless customisation permutations available: have you ever seen two identical 500s?

Following recent trim revisions to both the 500 and 500C, with summer around the corner, writeonmotoring got its hands on a 500C 1.2 Lounge, to see what’s made this chic little Italian such a best seller.

The new range now has six trim guises: (Pop, Pop Star, Colour Therapy, Lounge, Street and By Gucci) and is served by five different motors: (1.2 69 HP, 0.9 TwinAir Turbo 85, 1.4 16v 100 HP, 1.2 69 HP EasyPower and 1.3 MultiJet 16v 95 HP).

The rag-top keeps the retro looks of the hatch, but features a full length electrically retractable fabric roof. If you’re being pedantic you’d say it’s not a true convertible as the roof pillars are retained, but the design is faithful to the rear-engined 1950s original and it’s hard not to be impressed by this clever compromise, which does without the need for extensive body strengthening and roll-over protection. Consequently, the 500C only weighs 40kg more than the hatch.

This car came with 15” alloys, half leather, climate control, electric windows, CD/MP3/USB incorporating Fiat’s Blue&Me™ hands free system with Bluetooth® technology. On the safety front there’s 7 airbags, ABS and EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution).

In the cabin:

The interior really does feel different from other cars. Retro looks are mixed with modernity, such as the main dial, incorporating speedometer, rev counter, fuel, temperature and trip info. The shape of the body-coloured sloping dash feels unique and yet controls are positioned within easy reach.

Ok, it’s a small car, but it never feels cramped either and although it won’t win awards for space, six footers can  fit in the back and there’s cup holders both front and rear. Downsides include a rather bijou 185 litre boot and petite door pockets.

I found the high up driving position gave a good view of the road and although reasonably tall I was able to get comfy in the supportive seats. If you’ve got big feet like me, you may find the pedals situated rather closely together, but this is more of a personal preference than anything.

On the road:

Despite producing a modest 69 bhp, the 1.2 litre engine proved eager. You’ll have to be prepared to work the gears, but that’s actually part of the fun, as the slick short-throw 5-speed box is an absolute joy to use. I found the Dualdrive electric power steering usefully light around town. It weights up a speed which is a bonus, although isn’t as accurate as a Ford Ka’s.

I get the impression the 500C is more about style and fun than serious driving, but having said that it is fun to chuck around and always feels safe and secure. The ride is comfortable too, although like the hatch, it does bob around a bit – no doubt due its short wheelbase – in a manner a bit like an original mini. It might sound perverse, but this actually adds to the car’s character. Surprisingly then motorway journeys aren’t a chore, thanks to otherwise good refinement levels and a high top gear, allowing the little 1.2 to settle down to a an easy cruise.

The 500C’s party trick is it’s knack of going from what feels like a supermini hatchback to a convertible… at the mere press of a button. Better still, it can do this up to speeds of 37 mph!

With roof down you really get a good taste of drop-top motoring. It must be stressed that with roof lowered rear visibility is obstructed, but when it comes to parking just bring up the hood to its half way position and hey presto… vision is restored.

Verdict:

A week with the convertible version of Fiat’s baby supermini made me appreciate the secrets to its success. Not only does it have the key attributes of the hatch: exclusivity, desirability, usability and fun: but adds into the equation (weather permitting) easy fuss-free open-top motoring. Despite costing £3,000 more than the tin-top, I’d say this is money well spent.

Tech Data:

Fiat 500C 1.2 Lounge
OTR PRICE: £14,360
Max Power: 69hp @5500 rpm
Max Torque: 102Nm @ 1900 rpm
Max Speed: 99mph
Acceleration: 0-62 in 12.9 seconds
Claimed MPG (combined) 58.9
CO₂ emissions: (g/km) 113
Insurance Group 10

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Specification:

5.3 litre V12
265bhp
Max speed 135.7 mph
0-60 mph – 7.4 seconds

History:

The original XJ6 launched in 1968 was a tremendous success for Jaguar, but behind the scenes another new even more remarkable model was being prepared. Since the mid-1960s, Jaguar’s engineers had been at work on the design of a V12 engine, which was launched in the E-type Series 3 in early 1971. However, this engine was always intended for the new saloon car, and in 1972 the XJ12 finally appeared: the world’s only V12-engined saloon.

This car had an enormous impact. Coupled with the high standards of refinement and comfort of the XJ6, the new 5.3 litre engine gave the XJ12 a top speed of nearly 136 mph and the list price at launch was £3725. Externally, the main difference from the XJ6 was a new radiator grille with simple vertical bars. For the first time, serious comparisons began to be drawn between Jaguar and Rolls-Royce, and it seemed that the XJ12 was a worthy contender for the title of “Best Car in the World”.

This particular car, a 1973 long wheelbase model, was supplied to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, replacing Her Majesty’s previous Jaguar, a 1955 Mark VII which was then returned to the Jaguar company. Her Majesty’s new car was specially finished in the Royal colour of Claret, and uniquely among Jaguars, was fitted with the special Vanden Plas interior as found on the equivalent Daimler. Many years later, Her Majesty expressed the wish that on her death, this Jaguar should also return to the company, which duly happened on Her Majesty’s passing in 2002.

Further reading:

Jaguar XJ6/XJ12

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SMMT Test Day offers the unique opportunity for journalists to put through their paces vehicles from a wide range of brands and marques on test tracks – simulating nine miles of country road driving, followed by four lanes of motorway – designed to fully evaluate a car’s capability within a controlled environment. The last 12 months have seen growth in the new car market and there have been billions of pounds of additional international investment into UK plants and facilities. Consequently this year’s SMMT Test Day offered one of the most diverse range of vehicles ever seen at Millbrook, with a plethora of new models from all the key makes. Stars of the show were the impressive new Range Rover and stunning Jaguar F-Type.

UK automotive industry’s leading news distribution channel, Newspress, was also in attendance to celebrate its 40 years of service. Iconic cars from 1970s were available for journos to take for a spin around Millbrook’s tracks, for a retro ride to remember.

Jensen Interceptor – click for specification and history

Datsun 240Z  – click for specification and history

Vauxhall HPF Firenza - click for specification and history

1973 Jaguar XJ12 S1 Vanden Plas Saloon- click for specification and history

If that wasn’t enough, McLaren were dishing out (to those quick enough to get their name down!) hot laps of their renowned McLaren MP4 12C supercar. It might now be overshadowed by the British firm’s even more hardcore P1, but a few laps around Millbrook’s high speed bowl makes you appreciate just how breathtakingly incredible this £168,000 hi-tech supercar is.

covercars review of McLaren MP4-12C 

Along with the latest models on show, there were also dedicated displays, including the effect tyre pressures have on a car’s performance.

At the SMMT Tyre Zone, we learned of the importance of tyre pressures and forthcoming legislation beginning in November 2014, which will make it compulsory to have a tyre pressure monitoring system fitted to a passenger car. While this move is to be applauded, in practice the majority of systems will only activate once pressure drops by 20% – and by that time vehicle handling will have been severely compromised.

Regardless of modern technology, tyres  interface your car with the road surface, so its vitally important to make sure they’re correctly inflated. Click below to find out more.

How Tyre pressures affect driving performance

The post SMMT TEST DAY 2013: THE MOTOR INDUSTRY’S CHANCE TO DEMONSTRATE LATEST MODELS TO THE MEDIA appeared first on Write on Motoring.

Specification:

2.3 litre, in line 4, normally aspirated
131 bhp @ 5500 rpm
145Ib ft @ 3500 rpm
Max speed – 120 mph
0-60 mph – 9.4 seconds

Independent front wishbone suspension, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Four-link, live-axle suspension
Front disc/rear drum brakes

History:
In 1973, Vauxhall rationalised its Firenza range, and the HP (for ‘High Performance’) model was created. Based on the Magnum Coupe, the HP had additional aero appendages at the front, giving rise to the model’s nick name: ‘Droopsnoot’. This car wasn’t just about the looks either, being the first Vauxhall to have a five-speed gearbox. Engine tweaks to its 2.3-litre slant-four engine included hand-finished combustion chambers, inlet tracts and valve throats which liberated an extra 21 bhp. As a result, the Droopsnoot became the first Vauxhall to crack 0-60 mph in less than 10 seconds.

But industrial disputes, a looming fuel crisis and the consequent sales fall-out from the performance car market signed an early death-knell for the Firenza HP. Despite a brave sales projection of 1000 cars per year, only 204 cars were ever built.

The Vauxhall-owned example was purchased three years ago, after which it underwent a ground-up restoration by staff at the Heritage Centre.

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Specification:

2.4 litre straight six, naturally aspirated.
150 bhp
Max speed 125 mph
0-60 mph – 8.0 seconds

Independent McPherson struts with telescopic dampers and coil springs
Rack and Pinion steering
Front disc/rear drum brakes

History:
240Z’s were first sold in Japan during 1969 and then sold in the UK from 1970 for a price of £2288. Sales continued until the 260Z came along in 1973.

This particular example finished in yellow with black trim, was produced in 1971 for the home market, but has since been completely restored to showroom standard in 2003 by Nissan Motor (GB) Limited.

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Specification:

7.2 litre V8
285 bhp
Max speed 135 mph
0-60 mph – 7.5 seconds

History:
With four seats, a large boot and powerful V8 engine, at its launch in 1966 the interceptor was ideal for long-distance travel and continental touring. It found an immediate niche amongst businessmen and celebrities who wanted an alternative to a Rolls-Royce or Aston Martin. It provided wheels for the Saint too, but by 1976 when Jensen closed its doors for good, the world had changed and the Interceptor was an anachronism.

Today the Jensen Interceptor has reached iconic status, not least thanks to its gorgeous styling – defined by its massive rear hatchback – and tremendous 7.2 litre engine.

This dark metallic blue example is owned by Great Escape Classic Car Hire and has benefited from a full restoration. Modifications include fitment of a full electric sunroof, stiffer suspension and a larger bore stainless steel exhaust.

Great Escape Classic Car Hire

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