On October 1, coffee aficionados around the world celebrated their favorite hot drink on International Coffee Day.
This was a reason of the dynamic Stellantis PR team to to let one of the best baristas in Belgium, Peter Hernou, show us how to serve a good coffee. Because let’s face it, a Mocha coffee in the morning is a day without worries. And with the award-winning Opel Mokka, Opel offers the perfect companion to further color the day.
So we went to the beautiful Pajottenland around Brussels to have a drive with the Mokka and meet Peter Hernou and enjoy his heavenly coffee.
By the way, Opel chose the name “Mokka” by analogy with the coffee/espresso beans that are “small but with a lot of character” or, like the car, “compact in size and big in character”.
It was a very enjoyable day, and we learned a lot about coffee making. The first and most important rule is to have fresh roasted coffee beans, ground just minutes before you make it.
Of course we also had a delightful drive at the wheel of the electric Mokka through the hills of Pajottenland.
Of course, the customer has ample choice, this subcompact SUV from Opel is available as a battery electric vehicle, or with petrol and diesel engines, – just as they would choose their favorite coffee….
It is Brussels Car Show time soon, and the major manufacturers are looking back at their results this year on our Belgian market. Also Stellantis…
During the first eleven months of the year, Stellantis confirmed its strong position as a Belgian manufacturer of LEV, low-emission plug-in vehicles, strengthening its position in all relevant market segments.
In the field of BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles), the star is the New FIAT 500 electric. During the first eleven months of 2022, the New Fiat 500 electric ranks 6th in the total BEV market (all segments combined) as the first general public model after a top 5 made up of Premium brands and the first electric model of the Stellantis group. Did you know that in just two years, the New FIAT 500 Electric has been chosen by more than 100,000 customers in Europe and has won 33 international awards, in nine countries, making it the most awarded FIAT of all time.
Now it’s EV time for Abarth…
The Abarth brand also recently ushered in a whole new era with the launch of the all-electric New Abarth 500e. Combining performance, electric technology, style and powerful sound, the new ‘Scorpione’ turns advanced technology into pure adrenaline and durability into performance. A new online shopping experience will also be launched, with the New Abarth 500e Edizione Scorpionissima and an exclusive pre-booking phase until December 15 will be dedicated to members of the Abarth community only.
As for the Jeep brand, orders have been opened for the new Avenger in our market, the first all-electric Jeep SUV that recently had its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show. An important new asset that will certainly help the brand to promote sales of BEV vehicles.
Peugeot shows its claws…
In the pure electric market, PEUGEOT is positioned in second place in the BEV B Hatchback segment, with the 100% electric PEUGEOT e-208. The PEUGEOT e-2008 compact SUV occupies third place in the BEV B SUV segment, demonstrating that it is also very popular with Belgians in the 100% electric version. In 2023, the PEUGEOT 308 range will be completed by the PEUGEOT e-308 and e-308 SW and will strengthen its leading position in the C Segment. As for the 408, it is already available in two plug-in HYBRID versions. in, but PEUGEOT will present a 100% electric version later this year.
A successful entry in the premium market…
As for DS Automobiles, the new DS4 is already on the podium among C-segment sedans. Since 2019, the French luxury brand has presented a 100% electric range, becoming in 2020 the multi-energy brand whose CO2 emissions 2 are the lowest in Europe. The transition is accelerating: from 2024, each new DS Automobiles model will be 100% electric.
DS Automobiles is growing in Belgium in LEV cars much more (+48%) than the Premium market (+33%). In terms of sales, DS Automobiles increased its volume by 47% and one out of two DS is electrified. In October, DS Automobiles launched the new DS 7 and a DS 7 E-Tense 360 4×4 version. The same month, the brand opened orders for the new DS 3.
Opel is back…
The Astra Sports Tourer electric….
Similar sales successes are recorded by Opel. The Opel Corsa is fourth in the B Hatchback segment, and the Opel Mokka-e is second in the BEV B SUV segment. In 2023, the brand’s electrified offer, already extended today with 12 models, will be further enriched with the arrival of the new Opel Astra Electric. In this way, Opel is moving fast towards realizing its promise to become an all-electric brand in Europe by 2028.
Alfa shines with the Tonale Hybrid Q4
Alfa Romeo has also entered the electrified vehicle market with the launch of the new Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4. This launch is part of the brand’s overall electrification strategy. The new Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 thus becomes the most efficient Alfa Romeo ever, with CO2 emissions of 26 g/km, more than 80 km of city range in all-electric mode – more than 600 km of total autonomy for long extra-urban journeys – and 280 hp power. Since the opening of orders, the new Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 already represents nearly half of sales on the Tonale model, all engines combined.
Citroën’s C5 turns heads…
Citroën’s LEV range is also gaining popularity in the Belgian market thanks to the recent launches of the brand’s flagship, the New C5 X Plug-In Hybrid and the family SUV, the New C5 Aircross Plug-In Hybrid. In particular, the New C5 X Plug-In Hybrid ranks 1st in the ranking of PHEV sedans in the D segment (mainstream) after only a few months. Note also the success of the Citroën Ami (100% electric), which has confirmed since the beginning of the year its leading position in the segment of light electric quadricycles with the milestone of 1,000 units ordered since its launch in May 2021 largely exceeded. . Last October Ami recorded the second largest month of orders (134 units). And more news to report: orders have been opened for the New ë-C4 X. This new model dares to challenge traditional definitions of compact bodies to offer something innovative and distinctive: a design that combines the elegant silhouette of a fastback with the modern look of an SUV, as well as the timeless refinement and space on board of a 4-door. And last but not least, Citroën is positioned as the market leader in terms of ë-LCV BEVs.
More Stellantis news soon… we would like to lay our hands on the C5 X for a test!
I vividly recall driving the Kia EV6, which is one of the first EV’s which gave me really the impression of driving a car of the future. Its dashboard with its original digital instrumentation and graphic displays conveyed this wonderfully and put one truly “in the mood”. I am not alone in this, as Kia has been named ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ at the 2022 TopGear.com Awards, finishing the year on a high. This is the second consecutive year that Kia has taken home a win at the TopGear.com awards; last year, the newly launched EV6 won the ‘Crossover of the Year’ category.
The unique digital instrument graphics let your eyes see the future…
Kia has launched several game-changing models in Europe this year – notably the fifth-generation Sportage and all-new Niro, consistently two of Kia’s best-sellers across Europe. Both models offered a major update over their predecessors in several areas, including exterior and interior design, technological advancements, and sustainability credentials.
Jack Rix, Editor of BBC Top Gear Magazine, commented: “Kia’s recent form is remarkable. Despite unprecedented headwinds, the upward trajectory shows no sign of slowing down. In fact, it’s getting braver. The latest Sportage is a superior family crossover in comparison to its closest competitors, the new Niro looks striking, and offers hybrid or electric versions and Kia seems to be landing on its feet when it comes to the transition to fully electric. The EV6 GT offers a 577bhp version with mind-blowing drift mode.”
…as you see here: intuitively, one finds the right information…
Jason Jeong, President of Kia Europe added to the superlatives with the following comments: “This has been an outstanding year for Kia in terms of new product, brand awareness and sales. Our year-to-date market share across Europe has held strong at 5.1% over the past two months, and that success is due to our incredible electrified line-up. As we expand our electrified offering throughout 2023 and beyond, we hope to inspire more customers to make the switch and support a sustainable future for all.”
More Kia news soon, as we are keen to have a drive with the new Niro and Sportage…
Nissan Belux was the first to hold a press conference prior to the Brussels Auto Show 2023, and organized it at the magnificent premises of Quartier Papier in Zaventem. On the photo below you see the Nissan Ariya, which according to Nissan, redefines E-Driving…
At the start of the conference, Jerôme Saigot, Managing Director of Nissan Belux, stated that with the Ariya, LEAF and Townstar EV models, Nissan has a very nice range of e-vehicles. But consumers are still not fully ready for a 100% electric range of cars. With the new Qashqai e-POWER and the X-Trail e-POWER, they can experience the pleasure of a 100% electric transmission without having to recharge the car via a socket, thanks to a second gasoline engine that produces electricity, he said. Indeed, Nissan goes a step further than the competition with new technologies such as e-POWER. So Nissan reaffirms its role in the fields of crossovers and electric cars. But read further…
Hans Knol ten Bensel
Jerôme Saigot, Managing Director of Nissan Belux, presented the new Nissan electrified range and the environmental strategy of the brand towards 2030…
Nissan’s green strategy for 2030…
Jerôme Saigot also stressed that sustainability is at the core of Nissan’s long-term vision, Ambition 2030. Responding to critical environmental, societal and customer needs, this strategy sets out to deliver electrified models and technological innovation in key markets globally, empowering mobility and beyond. Ambition 2030 supports Nissan’s goal which is to be carbon neutral across the life cycle of its products and operations by 2050.
Nissan JUKE Hybrid: new advanced powertrain offers efficiency and responsive performance
Indeed Nissan is embarking further on the 100 % electrification of its range. We have the Juke, the popular compact crossover, offered with hybrid technology. Key to the driving pleasure at the heart of the Nissan JUKE Hybrid is an advanced low friction multi modal gearbox, using dog clutches instead of conventional synchronizer rings to shift the 4 “ICE” gears and 2 “EV” gears. Additionally, to reduce friction, this gearbox does not use a clutch. All vehicle starts are 100% electric, and the 2 EV motors are used in combination to synchronize the gears, delivering smooth and responsive acceleration. We will be keen to drive a hybrid Juke soon, and tell you about our driving experience with it.
A car which will please many is the Nissan Qashqai e-Power, said Mervin Keuter, Communications Director at Nissan Belux, offering 100 % electric power without the need for recharging externally. Indeed, a combustion engine coupled to a generator provides the electricity. The e-POWER system consists of a high-output battery, complemented by a variable compression ratio 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-charged petrol engine generating 156hp, a power generator, inverter and 140kW electric motor of similar size and power output as found in Nissan’s electric vehicles. The petrol engine generates electricity, which can be transmitted via the inverter to the battery pack, the electric motor or both, according to the driving scenario.
Melvin Keuter, Communications Director at Nissan Belux, highlighted the qualities of the Nissan Qashqai e-Power…
What sets this powertrain apart is that the electric motor is the sole source of power for the wheels, so its response is instant and linear. Needless to say that also here we are looking forward to gets our hands on one to experience how all this actually works. It certainly is clever and responds certainly to what modern-day drivers want… we also want to see how economical and environment friendly all this still is.
The dashboard of the new Nissan X-Trail with e-POWER and e-4ORCE…
Another important novelty for Nissan is the revamped X-Trail with its e-4ORCE system on X-Trail and fully electric Ariya. The innovative e-4ORCE all-wheel drive system was conceived for use on either Nissan’s pure electric powertrains or with its e-POWER system, mentioned above. In both cases, the driven wheels are powered purely by electric motors fed by the battery.
In the case of the X-Trail, the dual e-motor system has a total output of 157kW (213PS) with a 150kW front motor and a rear 100kW motor. This generates lively acceleration from 0-100km/h in 7 seconds. Nissan proudly announces that a rear electric motor has its advantages: it has a 10,000 times faster rear torque response than a mechanical 4WD system(!).
Rémy Le Gall, Marketing Director of Nissan Belux, commented also on the electrified Nissan range and last but not least dealer organisation and client approach, of which more later in a separate report!
Now, on the X-trail, you can also opt for the turbocharged 1.5-litre variable compression ratio powering the wheels in the traditional fashion. Generating 120kW (163PS) and 300Nm of torque, it will be offered only in two-wheel drive configuration, with power to the wheels being transmitted via Xtronic stepped continuously variable transmission. In driving scenarios with relaxed driving and light acceleration, the engine switches to high compression ratio for optimised fuel efficiency, while in situations where more performance is needed, the compression ratio is adjusted to a low level.
The powertrain is also equipped with 12v mild hybrid technology. The system provides torque assist, extended idle stop, quick restart and coasting stop, with benefits to both fuel economy and CO2 output.
The Nissan X-Trail e-4ORCE offers 100 % electric power without the need for recharging externally…
Driving the future: the Ariya
Staying true to Nissan’s heritage of fun-to-drive, exciting vehicles, the Ariya is built on the all-new Alliance-developed CMF-EV platform that’s optimized to deliver unparalleled performance.
The Ariya’s all-electric platform combines excellent power delivery, charging capabilities and range, with a carefully tuned balance between ride comfort and handling agility. Available in three versions (Ariya 2WD 63kWh, Ariya 2WD 87kWh, Ariya e-4ORCE AWD 87kWh) and a range of up to 533 km, Ariya can confidently meet a variety of customer needs.
The Ariya 87kWh can recover up to 350 kilometres with a 30-minute quick charge using a CCS charging system. The battery pack sits at the base of the chassis to ensure 50/50 weight distribution on the e-4ORCE version and near-equal weight distribution on the 2WD versions. During benchmarking, engineers placed great emphasis on striking the ideal balance between handling agility, secure feeling and ride comfort, something not all EV rivals are known for.
Subtle regional differences exist for Ariya, as well. For example, European consumers demand responsive steering and high manoeuvrability, but also require additional stability at higher speeds, so damping forces were increased to improve body control. Nissan Europe engineers also adjusted spring rates and retuned steering feedback to increase on-centre definition at higher speeds.
A timeless Japanese design language…
Incorporating Nissan’s Japanese DNA, Ariya’s striking exterior and interior reimagines EV potential by embodying Nissan’s Timeless Japanese Futurism philosophy of powerful design that fuses aesthetics with functionality while creating an upscale, open atmosphere.
The all-new EV platform and compact nature of powertrain components made it possible for Nissan to position Ariya’s climate-control system under the hood. This allowed designers to use the whole length of the cabin and create a flat, open floor with a lounge-like space inspired by premium futurism.
For the LCV market: the new Townstar…
The Townstar EV builds on the success of the e-NV200. Built on a shared CMF-C platform, the new vehicle will be manufactured at the Alliance centre of excellence for small vans in Maubeuge, France.
The fully electric version of the all-new Townstar EV features a powertrain optimised with intelligent energy management and battery thermal cooling. The Townstar EV is able to achieve a superior range autonomy of up to 300km (WLTP cycle). Delivering 122 PS and 245Nm of torque, the Townstar EV’s 45kWh battery can accept AC charging (11 kW or 22 kW) or DC quick charging (CCS format). The latter of which enables users to charge the battery from 15% to 80% in as little as 37 minutes.
Lots of interesting news from Nissan, keep posted for further Nissan news and driving reports of their interesting new cars!
We drove the Alfa Romeo Plug-in Hybrid Q4 Veloce in the historic roads near Biella…
Alfa Romeo is at an important turning point of its long history. With the Tonale, this potent, 280 HP stylish compact SUV, it wants to make a fundamental transition. It is the first milestone on the way to zero emission(s) – within 5 years the brand wants to see all its Alfa’s electric. It makes us shiver, quite frankly, and hopefully not literally, when a cold winter will bite us all in conflict ridden Europe nowadays.
But indeed, a positive mind and hope should fulfill our hearts, and looking at the mechanics of this Tonale, there is still plenty to let it beat a bit faster.
Hans Knol ten Bensel
An excellent and very convincing thoroughbred hybrid.
The Tonale is conceived when the merger between FCA and PSA was not yet achieved, and this is one of the (main?) reasons we find a so-called FCA “GSE” or Global Small Engine, also marketed as Firefly, under the hood as its combustion engine. This is a family of engines produced by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles or (FCA) starting in 2016, and subsequently Stellantis.
The unit in the Alfa is also dubbed as the “FCA e-engine” and is to be seen in slightly different power versions now also in the Jeep Renegade 4xe, in the Jeep Compass 4xe. It is being produced in the Brazilian Betim plant, now the largest vehicle plant in Latin America and one of the largest in the world. It was the production unit with the largest capacity installed of the entire Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) group. The Tonale itself rolls of the production lines at the Stellantis plant in Italian Pomigliano d’Arco, a municipality of the Metropolitan City of Naples in Italy, located north of Mount Vesuvius.
Of course, this engine embodies the very latest state of the art technology. Indeed, this new generation MultiAir III, present in the GSE family, has even more flexible valve control. The new cam profile with pre-lift allows the opening of the suction valves during the exhaust phase, aiming at the realization of the internal EGR, with reduction of nitrogen oxides and increase of the efficiency of the engine in the partial load. Besides, the lifting profile of the MultiAir III intake valve is more extensive and makes it possible to manage the effective compression ratio of the engine, keeping the tendency to detonation under control regardless of the fuel used. Wow!
The unit produces 180 HP or 132 kW, and is coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission, which provides traction to the front axle. We must say that the unit is not only smooth and very willing, it also produces the unmistakable, typical throb of a classic Alfa; the sound engineers did truly excellent work!
But then, this is a fully fledged hybrid, and this Tonale Q4 has an electric motor capable of supplying 90kW of max peak power and 250 Nm of torque to the rear axle.
The battery at the centre and the electric motor and its battery junction control box at the rear warrant an excellent weight distribution…
The 306-volt, 15.5 kWh lithium-ion battery supplies an electric range of over 80 km in the urban cycle and more than 600 km of total range. It is also excellent in terms of sustainability thanks to the new hybrid drivetrain which reduces Co2 emissions to 26kg/km, bringing the range’s total emissions down by 40%. A reduction has also been made in fuel consumption, which has been brought down to 1.14 liters per 100 km in the WLTP cycle. Plus, with the aim of providing maximum efficiency, it takes less than 2.5 hours to fully charge the battery when the 7.4 kW onboard charger is in use.
Driving is believing…
We took the Tonale “Q4” -as we shorten its name here – on an interesting 102 km road circuit laid out by the Alfa people in the surroundings of the Balocco proving ground. It led us via an interesting picturesque city Ricetto di Candelo and its beautiful Castello di Castellengo towards Biella, then took us on a nice curvy stretch back to the Autostrada direction Balocco. Endearing is the precision of its steering, and the feedback of the road surface in your hands at the wheel. You can really place this Alfa on the ideal line and adopt some razor sharp driving, even in the “natural” or “N” mode. We found the steering a bit too light however, except in the “D” or Dynamic mode, where the steering is more direct, even more responsive and feels a bit heavier.
The gleaming row of Alfa’s ready for the road test, aligned in front of the Balocco Proving Ground headquarters…
But pleasure at the wheel is to be had every inch of the way, and we found the Alfa also display excellent neutral handling, also thanks to its ideal weight distribution. Icing on the cake was a stint on the curvy circuit section of the proving ground, behind a Giulia Quadrifoglio pace car. It gave us the opportunity to drive flat out and (safely) close to the limits of this endearing Tonale, and the car could prove its qualities masterfully. Remember, the four wheels are driven, the front wheels being powered by the internal combustion engine and the rear wheels driven by the electric motor. Your servant could thanks to the e-AWD system, enjoy the instantaneous deployment of 100% of available torque from the electric motor, with a rear axle responding as soon as one steps on the throttle, and this resulted in excellent and stable out of corner acceleration, truly exhilarating indeed!
The performance is of course nothing short of astonishing. On the short straights of the circuit speeds well over 170 km/h were easily achieved, with stopping power to match. The “Q4” Tonale shoots from 0 to 100 km/h in merely 6,2 seconds and hurtles further to a top speed of 206 km/h. On e-power alone, the Tonale can achieve 135 km/h.
The suspension is well calibrated. For technical buffs we tell you here that the Tonale, as a result of its development history, runs on the FCA Small Wide platform of the Jeep Compass of the second generation.
The D.N.A. selector at the centre of action…
You can drive this Alfa exactly how you feel. We already applauded its qualities in the Dynamic mode, and the subdued but sporting roar of the engine still rings in our ears. But then you can also enjoy the agility, responsiveness and nimbleness of the Alfa Tonale in a more refined, “zen” way, which Alfa calls “modern sportiness”. We do agree, as the transgression between engine and E-power is ever so smooth as to becoming completely imperceptible, and that is no small feat. So when you select “N” or “Natural” mode, it keeps hybrid driving to all-wheel drive to optimize performance. The use of combustion engine and electric motor is automatically managed and allows for energy and fuel savings without giving up on performance.
Last but not least there is the “Advance Efficiency” mode, calibrated to obtain maximum energy efficiency in full-electric driving mode. It is the ideal driving mode in urban traffic. When you lift the throttle, the car continues driving in “Sailing.” Meanwhile, when one is going downhill, the new eCoasting Descent Control is activated to maintain a constant speed of 50 km/h, which is however adjustable with a light dab on the throttle or brake. Specifically, “E-Save” allows one to recharge or maintain the battery level when the internal combustion engine is on, and there is also the regenerative braking system.
Premium comfort and safety
The Tonale is quite roomy, remember, it rolls on the second generation Jeep Compass platform. Sound insulation is also quite good, enhancing the “zen” driving experience. Moreover, on-board comfort is also ensured by dual-zone climate control, pleasing ambient light, a sophisticated Infotainment system, ventilated and heated front seats, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
It also includes ADAS systems for level 2 automatic driving, a hi-res camera which provides a 360° view of the car, a Blind-Spot Detector and Rear Cross-Path Detector, as well as superior structural and industrial quality which earned it a 5-star NCAP rating.
Software connectivity…
Amazon Alexa allows one to remain constantly updated on the state of the vehicle from the comfort of one’s home, as it provides useful information like the charge Tonale Plug-In’s battery. The built-in Infotainment system comes standard and offers contents, functionalities, and services which are constantly being updated via its customizable Android operating system and 4G connectivity with “Over The Air” (OTA) updates.
Thanks to a hi-res screen whose overall dimensions are 22.5”—a 12.3” totally digital screen and a 10.25” main touchscreen unit, the Tonale Plug-In ensures easy-to-use connection. The centre 10,25” screen is also seen by the way in the 500e. The Tonale Plug-in Hybrid Q4’s circular dials include ad-hoc upgrades like the electro-biscione in the lower part of the right dial which changes color based on the electric motor’s status (off, on, on and charging) and so provides all the information related to power and charging. Clever!
Four new functionalities of Alfa Connect Services make their debut on the Tonale Plug-in Hybrid Q4:
E-control: it allows the customer to control various functionalities based on the EV features—like charging and the climate control system—at a distance directly from the My Alfa Connect App, which you have to install on your phone.
Dynamic Range Mapping: it allows drivers to travel with peace of mind as it shows them the destination they can reach based on the battery charge both on the navigation system map and the My Alfa Connect app.
At the end of our 105,9 km road trip, the instruments tell the story: we drove 50,6 km on engine power, 55,2 km on batter e-power. This resulted in a consumption of 3,86 litres/100 km, but then with 8 km left in the battery, so we estimate some 14 kW consumed…
Charging Station Finder: it allows the customer to see the nearest public charging stations both on the navigation system map and the My Alfa Connect app.
My eCharge: it allows for the use of the My Alfa Connect app to directly access Free2Move eSolutions services to manage public and private charging. In fact, it is possible to locate the public charging stations, check the charging methods, make payments, visualize the charge history, manage one’s own Wallbox to decide how much electricity to use and even increase, decrease, suspend, and reactivate the charge.
Your Tonale has an NFT which lets you generate a certificate…
This means that specifically, based on the customer’s selection, the NFT generates a certificate which guarantees the identity and good maintenance of the vehicle, and thus supports its residual value. The NFT certificate provides a further source of credibility on the used car market and is even more valuable on the Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 as it contains even more information.
A special “Edizione Speciale” at the launch…
The Tonale Plug-in Hybrid Q4 is the top-of-the-range model and is in line with the simplification and rationalization of Alfa Romeo’s lineup strategy. In fact, it can already be ordered in the exclusive EDIZIONE SPECIALE launch version and in the VELOCE trim which has been made to reach the most in terms of performance and sportiness.
The EDIZIONE SPECIALE offers inserts on the titanium body, a special badge on the fenders, and a “Tonale” black badge, 20” alloy wheels, metallic pedals, red Brembo brake calipers and aluminum shift paddles which are integrated into the steering column. Later on, customers will be able to order the Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 in the Ti trim for a more elegant and distinctive character.
We have to wait a bit to get our hands on this remarkable Alfa for a more extended test, but stay tuned for more Alfa news soon!
The cars were lined up for us at the Bella Luigina farmhouse, centre and headquarters of the proving ground.
The world famous proving ground and high speed test circuit at Balocco, built in 1962 by Alfa Romeo to test the Giulia’s as well as the racing cars, was the setting for us to get a hands on driving experience of the brand new Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4. The Test Track was built at Balocco, in a strategic location between Turin and Milan.
It all proved to be absolutely epic. The handling and driving dynamics of the Tonale on the state of the art test circuit, with its plug-in hybrid 4 WD drivetrain which produces not less than 280 HP, was the stuff of legends to say the least.
In front of the stables of the Bella Luigina farmhouse – the former home of legendary Autodelta racing department – stood these impressive Tonale’s, waiting for a test drive…
We had also a taste of what Alfa calls its “efficient sportiness” and what it understands this sportiness to be in our modern times. This Alfa Tonale indeed displays its formidable performance in a totally effortless, mechanically refined and predictable manner, which has to be experienced to be believed.
The important loan documents for a drive in this wonderful modern day Alfa, including the permission to have a go at (almost) racing speeds on the Balocco test track!
We will of course come back the coming days on this presentation of the Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4, a very important car in the new future strategy of Alfa Romeo.
Today starts the first of three appointments in anticipation of the Lancia Design Day on November 28th, the first event of Lancia Renaissance to describe the style of some of its most past iconic vehicles which inspired the design of its three future models.
The stars are the Lancia vehicles which have inspired so many car lovers: from Aurelia to Flaminia, from Fulvia to Beta HPE, Gamma, Delta, Stratos, and 037. Some are just the pinnacle of elegance, while others are brutal and efficient. But all have a style capable of remaining timeless. This is what kept them beautiful, contemporary, and authentic expressions of Italian design until today.
“The design and beauty of these “moving masterpieces” inspired us in our creation of the three Lancia models of the future” stated Luca Napolitano, Lancia CEO. “This includes the new Ypsilon in 2024, our new flagship which will allow us to enter Europe’s biggest segment, and the sculpted and muscular new “Delta” in 2028 with its geometric lines which will excite car enthusiasts throughout Europe.
We like to describe Lancia as a “Progressive Classic” brand, continues mr. Napolitano, where “Classic” means leveraging and respecting the value of our heritage, while “Progressive” entails our ability to look to the future with ambition. Innovation and timeless design have always been our values and we now want to add sustainability, and responsibility, always putting the customer at the center of our value proposition. These are the guiding principles of the ten-year plan of our Renaissance: through them, we are aiming at becoming a credible and respected brand in the premium European market. Protagonists of this roadmap will be the three new Lancia models of the future that we designed to make them recognizable and consistent one another. All three vehicles will feature three distinctly Lancia design elements: the calice, the sinuous lines and the geometric-primitive forms. Inspired by the front of the iconic Lancia Aurelia and Delta, the new calice will be reinterpreted in a modern key, preserving its distinctive feature that brings together a vertical and horizontal line to include the Brand logo.”
Moreover, the three new models will display sinuous lines on their side, a typical feature of some of Lancia historical models, such as Aurelia B20.
Finally, there are the geometric-primitive forms on both the front and the rear, among which the round taillights stand out, that refer to the Brand’s more brutal and technical spirit, which tips its cap to the legendary 037, Stratos, and Delta, the racing “beasts” that dominated Rally for over 20 years”.
Besides elegance and grit, there is a third element of Lancia design that is eclecticism, i.e., the tendency to be inspired by various sources, even contrasting ones, to create something harmonious and consistent at the same time. This is what happens, for example, in the Italian living room areas that inspired Lancia to create the original and welcoming interiors of the Gamma and Beta models. The same refinement of the interiors can be found in the 1965 Fulvia Coupé, elegant, aggressive and high performing at the same time. This is another example of Lancia eclecticism.
The Lancia Beta HPE, marking an era with its “venetian blinds-inspired structure”
The Lancia Beta HPE (High Performance Estate) is a gorgeous, sporty, and high-performing family car which is low, graceful, and equipped with a spacious trunk. Designed by Pininfarina and produced in three series, it is definitely the most fascinating Lancia Beta model. Introduced at the 1975 Geneva Motor Show, the Lancia Beta HPE stood out for its eclecticism featured as the “practical elegance”. The rear of the cabin stands out for its angled hatch where one can make out an innovative venetian blinds-inspired structure behind the glass, which limits the effects of sun glare and protects rear visibility. This innovative solution is finished off by two trims on the third pillar which gets visually blended with the original finish on the rear window.
Lancia Gamma Coupe: the “traveling living room” that sets new rules…
At the Geneva Motor Show in 1976, Lancia displayed the futuristic design of the Lancia Gamma Coupe. With classic exteriors and eclectic interiors, this vehicle is remembered as the “traveling living room”. It was given this nickname as the cab recreates a welcoming, comfortable, and innovative atmosphere, as demonstrated by its original color combination and its dashboard inspired by the product design of the 70’s. The refinement and the fine quality of the material are the result of collaborations with famous fashion brands, including the maison of Ermenegildo Zegna. The final evolution of Lancia great GT coupes, a noble range that includes Aurelia and Flaminia, the Gamma Coupe was inspired by the Flaminia Coupe. This might be why it looks more graceful and sleeker at first glance than the five-door sedan, thanks as well to its slanted roof. More stylish news soon, and for now just look at the photos… and the film which you can also admire on my Instagram page.
At the 39th edition of “Auto e Moto d’Epoca”, one of the most important events in Europe for vintage car and motorcycle enthusiasts, Alfa Romeo presents the “Alfa Romeo Classiche” heritage program, a range of services with the precise aim of protecting and promoting the history of the iconic Italian brand.
For the first time in Stellantis, the brand’s top management is personally involved in all the activities that make up the whole range of its dedicated services. In fact, the certification committee is chaired by Alfa Romeo’s CEO and the Head of Heritage department, with the support of the Alfa Romeo Museum. This support is crucial, as this museum houses the production registers and all the technical documentation used by the committee to analyze the information on the examined cars.
Abarth is also incuded in the overall Stellantis Heritage program…
Jean Philippe Imparato – Alfa Romeo CEO: “we are enhancing our historic heritage”
When presenting the program, the CEO stated: “Alfa Romeo is going through a key phase in its history. The historical period we are going through is a genuine evolution. The brand’s future includes very ambitious goals aimed at redefining the concept of sportiness in the 21st century, while remaining faithful to its DNA. While planning for the future, our heritage is always our main source of inspiration. For us, the Alfa Romeo Classiche heritage program aims to enhance our historic automotive heritage by certifying the authenticity of vintage Alfa Romeos and giving new life to marvelous examples that still captivate and excite car enthusiasts around the world.”
The program…
Parts for the Lancia Delta Integrale are also provided…
The Alfa Romeo Classiche heritage program consists of the Certificate of Origin – which has been offered for Alfa Romeo cars since 2016 – together with the Certificate of Authenticity and the Restoration. The Top management of the brand personally chairs and intervenes in the committee that evaluates historic cars and issues the certifications with the support of the Heritage team and the experts in Alfa Romeo history.
Issuing a Certificate of Origin…
Alfa Romeo offers the opportunity to discover the history of each car through its chassis number. The service provides for an accurate document review at the Brand’s production registers and the issue of a certificate certifying the car’s year of production and original configuration: model specifications, engine serial number, original exterior and interior details.
… and a Certificate of Authenticity.
Historic gems are kept and restored by the heritage department…
After analyzing in detail the historic car taken under consideration and verifying its production data and technical specifications at the company archives, Alfa Romeo, with the support of the Heritage department, certifies the authenticity of the classic car. To obtain this certification each car goes through a rigorous inspection and evaluation process which is carried out by the specialized team, verifying the authenticity of the car and its components and the functioning of the main mechanical parts. The vehicle can be examined at the Officine Classiche in Mirafiori or directly at the customer’s home, if he prefers, or at the Stellantis & You sales and service dealership in Rome and Palermo.
A fully fledged Restoration service.
Furthermore, the same team that takes care of the’ historical collection is available to private clients, with services ranging from simple maintenance to complete restoration: from diagnosis to exterior restoration, repair of individual mechanical and aesthetic components, and final testing.
A dedicated area on the official Alfa Romeo website…
The brand will introduce an area dedicated on its website to the new “Alfa Romeo Classiche” heritage program that allows lucky owners of historic cars to make use of programs dedicated to Certificates of Authenticity and Restoration. It will therefore be possible to receive all the information and support necessary to start a dedicated and personalized program directly from the brand’s website.
To put you in the mood, just look at the accompanying photos…where you don’t see only Alfa’s, but also Lancia and Abarth, which are also taken under the wings of the Stellantis Heritage depoartment…
Externally, the 4×4 Concept features tow hooks, wider fenders and track, and is equipped with larger, exposed and more aggressive tires.
Indeed, at the finale of the Jeep brand press conference of the Paris show, Jeep announced its 4×4 Concept.
At the event, Jeep brand CEO Christian Meunier pointed out that the Avenger has been designed as a Jeep vehicle from the outset. Indeed, “the all-electric 4×2 model already offers some of the best-in-class capabilities that identify the Jeep brand”, he stated.
Of course, it was tempting to inject the Jeep brand’s four-wheel drive electrified capabilities into a compact package, while retaining the brand’s unique design language, capability and personality.
Externally, the 4×4 Concept features tow hooks, wider fenders and track, and is equipped with larger, exposed and more aggressive tires.
To further enhance the capability of the Jeep Avenger, the approach angle has been improved to 21 degrees, departure angle to 34 degrees and breakover angle to 20 degrees, thanks to the ground clearance which now exceeds 200mm.
The front end has additional protection, with thicker cladding and there are extra built-in flood lights to improve visibility when driving at night.
The Avenger 4×4 Concept also displays a new lightweight roof cargo system concept that, with a special belt system, compresses the luggage on the roof and has scratch-proof protection along its entire length. The whole package is completed by an anti-reflective hood sticker and anti-scratch grille treatment for additional peace of mind when driving off-road.
Concluding the unveiling, Meunier said: “Here in Paris, we have shown that we have a full portfolio of new all-electric 4×4 capable Jeep models just around the corner, with a clear goal in mind: to become the number one electrified SUV brand in the world as we continue our path towards achieving our mission of Zero Emission Freedom.”
The full-electric Avenger joins a portfolio of Jeep vehicles which are 100 percent electrified in continental Europe…
Just look at the photos for now, until the Avenger all electric 4×2 comes available for a test drive…and the 4×4 version will also hit our roads!
BMW’s have always lightened the hearts of the men and women behind their steering wheel. Their agility, responsiveness, the feeling of being “one” with the car, this pervades you every minute you drive a four wheeled product of the brand, and this always has been with every BMW. I can tell, as I am writing the report of this test while waiting in line to pass the yearly MOT test of my beloved BMWZ3, built in 1997. (For photos of this, see my instagram page autoprova.be). The sensation is just unique.
The BMW 218d Active Tourer we tested recently is no exception. It puts a smile on your face too. The car itself has now front wheel drive, and purists might look a bit worried here, but the excellence of the handling, the way the BMW engineers have fine tuned the suspension is nothing short of astonishing. The car steers with much precision, stays neutral until very high corner speeds and goes into a mild and controlled understeer when reaching the adhesion limit. The overall typical BMW agility is beautifully maintained.
Of course, this (compact?) SUV has what it takes to enjoy the family. There is plenty of room for five, and a luggage space which will satisfy almost everybody, more about this later.
The seats are just wonderful, wrapping you in comfort with a sporting touch.
We absolutely love the BMW typical dashboard architecture, and the design and shape of the digital instrumentation, although we still love the iconic BMW styling of the round dials which adorn for example my now 24 year old BMW Z3.
One might regret that the iDrive round control knob in the centre console – which BMW thankfully had pioneered – has disappeared to manage all the functions and settings, and from now on everything has to be selected on the 10.25 inch touchscreen,
but this seems to be the trend of the times, and we have to admit that the functions are very logical and self explaining, albeit sometimes one has to search quite “deep” in the menu.
We very much liked also the gearbox selector neatly placed on a “floating” control pad which leaves space underneath for sunglasses, driving gloves and sundry. It has also a handy rolling control for audio volume, a knob for selecting the different driving modes, parking cameras and auto hold. Of course the start stop button lodges there too. We also liked the charging pad for the phone, which holds the phone upright, and tight so it does not slide around when you indulge yourself in some very spirited driving.
The screen graphics and the screen definition are a joy to behold, and this enhances the high quality feel this BMW gives you. Note that the touchscreen and its functions are the same as you find in the flagship BMW’s… The touch and feel of the upholstery and dashboard surfaces and panels is also top notch.
The magic of Diesel…
We tested the two liter diesel engine version of the Active Tourer, and it proved again masterfully how wonderful modern diesels have become. The four cylinder 1995 cc unit is ultra smooth, coupled to an 8 Steptronic speed automatic, it provided a velvety yet powerful energy flow to the front wheels. It has plenty of power with 110/150 kW/hp, and has ample torque of 350 Nm, which is available over a wide rev range between 1750 – 2500 rpm. You don’t hear it at speed, nor does it emit any vibrations. Performance is excellent we would think, with a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of merely 9 seconds. Top speed is a good 213 km/h, and we took our Active Tourer on a trip to Düsseldorf to have a go on the legendary German Autobahnen, and we enjoyed the high speed qualities of the Active Tourer to the full. We have to admit, this is what this (and many other) BMW’s are built for…
A range of 1125 km, makes one dream, isn’t it?
This effortless high speed driving and zesty touring in our cities and highways doesn’t cost you much energy with this marvelous frugal diesel. We clocked an average consumption of merely 5 litres/100 km. According to WLTP norm, the average consumption for the 8 speed Steptronic is quoted at between 5,2-4,9 l/100 km. Need we say more? This means, considering a tank capacity of 51 litres, you have an action radius of a good 1.000 km. This lets you dream, doesn’t it? How we enjoyed this mobility freedom with this diesel…
Good to know that its emission rating is 6D, and still according to WLTP norm it emits between 135-128 g/km of CO2.
Roomy
This is a compact SUV, or crossover, and it offers resulting from its body shape plenty of space also in the back seats. It is practical too. The rear seats slide fore and aft easily via manual locking mechanisms, so you can choose between more luggage space or better legroom. One has 470 liters in standard configuration, extendable to 1,455 liters with the rear seat backrests folded down.
Conclusion
A well made car with a stylish interior and excellent and frugal performance, and of course wonderful, care-free mobility in this diesel version. Refined too, with good comfort, excellent handling (certainly for a SUV). It doesn’t come exactly cheap, but as said, it is built for a very, very long service life, and this will reflect itself in overall very little depreciation. Last but not least, there is the emotional factor: it’s a BMW… made to make you smile behind the wheel.
Autoprova - for the Connaisseur 