While we looking forward to driving early Fabruary the KAMIQ and the SUPERB COMBI iv = PHEV, we show you here some photos of the facelifted KAROQ, of which we showed some sketches earlier.
The car now has a wider, hexagonal ŠKODA radiator grille and a new front apron. The headlights are slimmer, just as the rear lights, and have a four-light cluster design. They can naw also be had with full LED matrix technology.
A longer rear spoiler, a front apron with air curtains, aerodynamically optimized bottom panels for the fuel tank and new alloy wheels with a diameter of 17, 18 or 19 inches help the air resistance of reduce the car by more than 9% to a coefficient (cd) of 0.30. This makes the KAROQ to one of the most aerodynamic cars in its segment. The photos speak further for themselves…
We are and have always been admirers of Abarths, we just love their panache and are always keen to drive them. Abarth engineers are making the iconic 695 ever faster and more attractive, and indeed, here is some good news.
The brand with the Scorpion launched a new “Collectors’ Edition”: the Abarth 695 Esseesse, a name that has its roots well anchored in the history of the brand and refers directly to the early days when the tuning kits of the 1960s of Carlo Abarth made his fortune and established him as the inventor of tuning for production cars.
Produced in a limited edition of just 1,390 units, it is split up into a black 695 “Nero Scorpione” version and a further 695 coloured in a “Grigio Campovolo”.
The Abarth team of engineers and designers were inspired by the 1964 “500”model, the “Cinquino”, transformed into the 695 Esseesse, with a displacement increased to 690 cc and 38 hp to reach 140 km/h, designed for everyday use as well as a sporty city car, and produced in a limited edition of just 1000 units. The model was distinguished by its specific badges with the monogram “SS” in capital letters on the hood and “esse” in small letters on the dashboard.
Still faster and more agile..
When designing the new Abarth 695 Esseesse, the aim was to further improve performance in terms of acceleration and handling. The research therefore focused on weight reduction, a different balance and attention to aerodynamics. The new 695 Esseesse is not only characterized by an aesthetic aspect, but the new aluminum bonnet with double curvature reduces the weight by 25% compared to a normal bonnet. In combination with the application of the Akrapovič exhaust system and other efficient modifications, the overall weight of the car has been reduced by 10 kg compared to an Abarth 595 Competizione. But there is more: at the rear one finds a ‘Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile’. All these elements are not only enhancing the style, but have also led to better performance, for example in the 400 m standing start, where the 695 Esseesse manages to improve by 1/10 of a second compared to the Competizione version.
The best performing Abarth in the range…
Available only as a saloon, the new Abarth 695 Esseesse immediately impresses with its new aluminum bonnet and rear spoiler, reminiscent of the racing world and the storied history of the Scorpio brand. At full inclination (60°) and a speed of 200 km/h, the ‘Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile’ – adjustable from 0 to 60° – increases the aerodynamic force by up to 42 kg, resulting in greater stability when cornering and a greater responsiveness in mixed sections. In combination with the aluminum bonnet, this translates into lower weight, better cornering performance and better acceleration performance. In short, the new Abarth 695 Esseesse ‘Collector’s Edition’ is the fastest in the range.
The exterior styling is further enhanced with elements inspired by both past and present, which make the 695 Esseesse resolutely exclusive, such as the white inserts on the front and rear bumpers, the mirror caps and the side decals. The 17″ wheels with red hub caps, red Brembo brake calipers, 695 logo on the side and 695 Esseesse badge on the rear are also white. Striking are the two titanium Akrapovič exhausts, conveying a marvelous sound, a backdrop for unique driving pleasure.
Exclusive interior
The new Abarth 695 Esseesse also shows its exclusivity in the cabin: the seats are marked with “one of 695” on the headrest, while the new 695 Esseesse “Collectors’ Edition” has numbered seats for the first time. For each of the two body colors there is a Sabelt seat with stitching in the same color as the body. Note also the red seat belts and the white backs of the front seats. Personalization also continues with the dashboard panel covered in Alcantara®, where the laser-cut letters “695 esseesse” stands out in the lower right corner. And to add to the racing spirit, there is a carbon fiber gear lever, and also carbon pedals and steering wheel inserts.
Engines and technical specifications
The new 695 Esseesse is equipped with the 1.4 T-jet engine, which delivers 180 hp and 250 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, and offers a top speed of 225 km/h (with the spoiler set at 0°) and acceleration from 0 to 0. 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. It covers the 400 meters from a standstill in 15.1 seconds. There are Koni FSD shock absorbers on both axles and red Brembo 4-piston calipers at the front and self-ventilated 305/240 mm discs at the rear.
The transmission is manual, but an Abarth sequential robotic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters is available on request. Finally, in terms of technology and connectivity, the Abarth 695 Esseesse is equipped with the Uconnect infotainment system with navigation, a 7″ touchscreen with integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™ compatibility and DAB digital radio.
The new 695 Esseesse is now available at the Belgian and Luxembourg dealers of the Scorpion brand… let the pleasure begin! Needless to say, we are very keen to lay our hands on one…
On the heels of the world premiere of the next-generation Astra hatchback in September, Opel has today unveiled the estate model version, the all-new Astra Sports Tourer.
The newcomer will be available with two levels of plug-in hybrid electric drive, making it the German carmaker’s first electrified estate. The new Astra Sports Tourer also continues Opel’s successful tradition of compact estates, which began almost 60 years ago with the Kadett Caravan, the first such car in this class from a German brand.
Opel Astra Sports Tourer (2021)
In addition to electric drive, the new Astra Sports Tourer will be available with highly efficient petrol and diesel engines. Power ranges from 81 kW (110 hp) to 96 kW (130 hp) with the petrol and diesel variants and up to 165 kW (225 hp) system output with the electric plug-in hybrid variants. A six-speed gearbox is standard on the petrol and diesel power units, with an eight-speed automatic transmission (electrified on the plug-in hybrids) optional on the more powerful engines.
Practical
With vital statistics of 4,642 x 1,860 x 1,480 millimetres (L x W x H) and a loading height of around 600 mm, the practical new Astra Sports Tourer further strengthens Opel’s reputation in the estate market sector. However, the overall length is 60 mm shorter than that of the previous model, thanks to the particularly short front overhang, and despite the considerably longer wheelbase of 2,732 mm (+70 mm) that is even 57 mm longer than that of the new Astra hatchback.
Flexibility in the boot: “Intelli-Space” moveable floor
The boot of the new Astra Sports Tourer provides up to more than 608 litres of useful storage space with the rear seatbacks upright, and up to more than 1,634 l when folded. In addition, when the 40:20:40-split rear seatbacks (standard equipment) are folded down, the floor is completely flat. Even with their underfloor lithium-ion battery, the plug-in hybrid variants still offer cargo volumes of more than 548 l and 1,574 l respectively.
Opel Astra Sports Tourer (2021)
The boot volume of combustion engine variants is optimised with the optional “Intelli-Space”. This moveable load floor can be easily adjusted with only one hand to high and low positions, and parked at a 45-degree angle. In addition, for even higher convenience, the retractable boot storage cover can be stowed when the moveable floor is in both the upper as well as the lower position – in contrast to competitors that only allow stowage of the cover when the floor is in the upper position.
The new Astra Sports Tourer with “Intelli-Space” can also make life easier in the event of a flat tyre. The kits for tyre repair and first aid are stored in underfloor compartments that can be accessed from the boot or rear passenger seating area.
Bold styling: New Astra Sports Tourer with Opel Vizor and Pure Panel
Together with its five-door hatchback sibling, the stylish new Astra Sports Tourer is a true design statement and Opel’s first estate to interpret the brand’s new design philosophy. The Opel Vizor new brand face follows the Opel Compass where the vertical and horizontal axes – the sharp crease in the hood and the wing shaped graphic of the daylight running lamps – intersect with the Opel Blitz emblem in the middle. Stretching across the front, the Vizor also seamlessly integrates technologies such as the adaptive Intelli-Lux LED® Pixel headlamps and the front camera.
The all-new Opel Astra Sports Tourer (2021)
At the rear, the Opel Compass is repeated by the centrally mounted Blitz, the vertically aligned high-mounted brake lamp and the especially slim tail lamps. The latter are identical to those of the five-door hatchback, further strengthening the Astra family-ties.
In the cabin we find the fully digital Pure Panel human-machine-interface (HMI). Operation is via an extra-wide touchscreen, just like a smartphone. Important settings such as climate control can still be selected directly via switches. There is no need for cables either, since the new generation of multimedia infotainment and connectivity systems can be connected to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via compatible smartphones, already available on the entry-level variant.
Lighting the way for compact estates: Unique Intelli-Lux LED® Pixel Light headlamps
The new Astra Sports Tourer boasts the latest version of the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux LED® Pixel light. The system comes directly from the Opel flagships Insignia and Grandland, with 168 LED elements.
Comfortable
Developed in-house, the front seats of the new Astra Sports Tourer are certified by Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. / Campaign for Healthier Backs (AGR).
Drivers receive additional support from optional state-of-the-art assistance systems such as the Intelli-HUD head-up display and Intelli-Drive 2.0. Hands-off detection on the steering wheel ensures that drivers remain engaged at all times. We just let you have a look at the photos here. More news soon!
We have not been driving Peugeots and Opels for a (very) long time, and besides bringing you Peugeot and Opel news on a regular basis, we will in the future also test and collect driving impressions of their new models.
Now to the news: the latest technological developments from early 2022 on the 100% electric versions of the new PEUGEOT 208 and 2008 and Opels will deliver up to 25 km and 8% more range according to the WLTP cycle, and even more in practice.
Based on the eCMP (Common Modular Platform), equipped with a 50 kWh battery, a 100 kW (136 hp) electric motor and a torque of 260 Nm, these models will – like the DS 3 – also receive the latest technological developments to increase their autonomy.
Talking about the platform, did you know that this is a global subcompact platform jointly used and developed by Groupe PSA and state-owned Chinese automaker Dongfeng?
The DS3 also runs on it, as do the latest Citroën DS4 and the ë-DS4. But also the Opel Mokka and Mokka-e and last but not least the Corsa and the Corsa-e.
2020 Opel Mokka-e
The DS3 is built in Poissy, as are the Opel Mokka’s. As with the DS3, for the 208 and 2008, the tires have been optimized and now have a lower rolling resistance. This concerns amongst others the 16 inch wheels for the PEUGEOT e-208 and the 17 inch wheels for the PEUGEOT e-2008.
The Corsa-e is now good for 359 kilometers, the Mokka-e has an improved range of 338 kilometers.
In addition, the Peugeots and Opels have also the new gearbox ratio, which optimizes further the range on the road and on the highway.
2019 Opel Corsa-e
Finally, they have, like the DS3, also received a new heat pump in combination with a humidity sensor at the top of the windscreen optimizes the energy efficiency of heating and air conditioning.
The improved sensor enables a more precise control the air circulation in the passenger compartment, so it costs less energy to heat up and maintain the temperature in the vehicle. This latest development is particularly noticeable at low outside temperatures.
We will be driving the coming month the stylish M4 Coupé, and we are looking forward to it. But in the meantime, we show you here some (very) interesting news from BMW, which is a harbinger of stylish things for the brand to come…
At Art Basel’s 2021 Miami Beach show, BMW M GmbH is presenting an expressive new vehicle concept on the global stage. The BMW Concept XM looks ahead to the most powerful BMW M car ever to go into series production, which is set to begin at the end of next year.
The BMW Concept XM provides a first glimpse of the new front-end design for BMW’s forthcoming luxury-class models. It will also introduce its audience to a highly progressive and distinctive take on BMW X model design and an all-new form of luxury and sense of space for the interior.
The series-production model – the BMW XM – will be built from the end of 2022 at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the USA, the most important sales market for the new high-performance car. BMW M will therefore be introducing its first standalone vehicle since the legendary BMW M1 in the year it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The BMW XM will be available in plug-in hybrid form only and exclusively as an M model.
The bold exterior styling of the Concept XM reflects the car’s exceptional performance attributes: dynamism, agility and precision, plus an all-electric range of up to 80 km. The newly developed M Hybrid drive system in the BMW Concept XM brings together a V8 engine and a high-performance electric motor to develop maximum output of 550 kW/750 hp and peak torque of 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft). The first electrified vehicle from BMW M GmbH in the high-performance segment is therefore pointing the way for the future of the brand.
BMW M goes its own way in the luxury segment…
The BMW Concept XM sees BMW M GmbH forging a distinctive path in the luxury segment. The car’s exterior majors on presence and extrovert appeal. Inside the car, a special take on the driver-focused cockpit typical for the M models meets an all-new rear compartment design: high-comfort seats and an illuminated, sculptural headliner add panache.
“The design of the BMW Concept XM is an extravagant statement by BMW M in the heart of the luxury segment,” says Domagoj Dukec, Head of BMW Design. “It has a unique identity and embodies an expressive lifestyle like no other model in the BMW line-up.”
The front end: progressive design for maximum presence.
The BMW Concept XM debuts the new, progressive front-end design for BMW’s luxury-class models, a version of which will be seen for the first time in 2022 as part of the BMW model offensive in the luxury segment. The headlights have been split into two separate modules. The horizontal kidney grille sits between the headlights and tapers towards the outer edges, producing a near-octagonal outline that emphasises the front end’s character. The black kidney grille elements are enclosed within an intricate surround and appear almost to be floating freely within a High-gloss Black surface. The new XM logo in the kidney grille and the large air intakes hint at the power of the V8 engine, which teams up with the electric motor to form the M Hybrid system.
M-specific details point to compromise-free performance.
The glasshouse of the BMW Concept XM rises up vertically, accentuating the front end’s imposing feel. The colour of the roof contrasts with the black finish of the A-pillars. The windscreen seems to have an even heavier rake as a result, injecting modern dynamism into the front end. Slim LED searchlights have been incorporated into the roof above the A-pillars.
The powerful and heavily contoured proportions of the BMW Concept XM highlight the car’s identity and draw the eye to the coupé-like character of the body. The visually striking front end, long bonnet and stretched, sloping roofline present a characterful two-box design with a distinctive outline.
The two-tone paint finish of the BMW Concept XM further accentuates its lines: the upper section is in matt gold-bronze, while the lower section sports the Space Grey metallic shade. Below the window graphic, a broad, High-gloss Black line – the “black belt” – separates the two exterior colours. The charging flap rearwards of the front-left wheel is a reminder of the M Hybrid drive system at work.
The rear : bold stature
The design of the rear end likewise accentuates the car’s powerful stance, and the BMW Concept XM cuts a low and sporty figure from this angle. The BMW logo is laser-etched into the window below each of the two cant rails. This is a stylistic reference to the BMW M1, to date the only example of a standalone model developed exclusively by BMW M GmbH.
The interior design – high performance and extrovert luxury.
Inside the BMW Concept XM, the driver will find a distinctive M interpretation of driver-focused cockpit design. The lines and surface design of the instrument panel, centre console, door trim and seats give the ambience in the front compartment a progressive feel with their powerful geometry and high-quality materials. Brown, vintage-look leather, copper and carbon fibre create a bridge between luxury and motor sport. A bold trim element provides clear visual separation between the driver’s area and the other sections of the car.
The new BMW Curved Display screen grouping creates a neat balance between traditional driver focus and modern digitality. Red accents on the steering wheel and centre console are M-specific references to the car’s sporting DNA. A trio of vertical elements presented in the three colours of the BMW M brand logo form the heart of the centre console.
Spacious and luxurious: the M Lounge.
The unwavering driver focus of the front compartment contrasts with the extravagant and luxurious lounge-like ambience in the rear of the BMW Concept XM. Special materials, visually powerful surfaces and expressive details turn the rear seats into the unique M Lounge, black-tinted rear side windows underscoring the abiding sense of privacy here. While warm brown leather dominates the cockpit, the rear is decked out in the rich colour shade Petrol. The large rear seat bench with its deep seat recesses forms an inviting space to relax. Only the diamond-shaped area of the head restraints – which provides the supporting function familiar from BMW M Sport seats in other models – is leather-trimmed.
Illuminated and sculptural: the headliner .
The visual highlight of the cabin is its headliner with a three-dimensional prism structure. A combination of indirect and direct lighting produces a relief-like structure. The ambient lighting can be activated in the three BMW M colours.
BMW Curved Display with M-specific user interface.
Based on the latest generation of BMW iDrive, the M-specific version of the control/operation system translates the high-performance character of the BMW Concept XM into the digital world. Showcased in the familiar three M colours, it visualises the modes of the hybrid drive system as well as the pure-electric driving mode with captivating aesthetic appeal.
Recently, the new EQB has been added to the Mercedes full-EV fleet. An interesting car, which we hope to drive soon. In the meantime, we are looking forward to test for you from 7 December onwards the CLS 220d, and see what a modern Mercedes Diesel can still offer in these electrifying times. Also soon our faithful 1,6 litre petrol engined (now already more than 4 years old…) 180 B Class gets its Type A service at Hedin Automotive in Kontich, about which we will report too.
Then there is more intriguing company news about the Mercedes revolutionary production techniques they are unfolding in their Berlin factory, where they are rolling out electric motors for their EV cars. More about this in a forthcoming special report.
But now to some more news about the EQB. The EQB 300 4MATIC can be ordered now in our country, from € 63,041 VAT incl.
The EQB is quite roomy, and is optionally also available as a seven-seater. After the EQA, the EQB is already the second fully electric compact model from Mercedes-EQ.
The model range initially consists of the EQB 300 4MATIC (combined power consumption: 19.4-18.1 kWh/100 km). It has a motor developing 168 kW/228 hp. Then there is also the EQB 350 4MATIC (combined power consumption: 19.2-18.3 kWh/100 km) Its electric motor develops 215 kW/292 hp. The price of this more powerful version starts at € 65,945 VAT incl.
The sale price of the EQB includes one year of Mercedes me Charge. Mercedes-EQ customers have easy access to a network of more than 600,000 charging points worldwide via Mercedes “me Charge.” At the same time, they benefit from an integrated payment function with simple invoicing.
The EQB will be available as Edition 1 for a limited period after its launch. Externally, this limited edition combines elements from the “Night package” with AMG styling. But there is more: 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, matt copper and high-sheen finish complete the sporty look. Highlights of the Edition 1 interior are the upholstery in neva gray leather with CYBER CUT blue, the rear-illuminated trim in spiral look and air vents with the outer ring in silver chrome and the inner ring in energy blue.
Here are the main options and packages of this 4WD EQB, which is offered in Luxury Line and AMG line trims:
The third row of seats with two additional individual seats comfortably accommodates people up to 1.65 meters tall. The comprehensive safety equipment includes extendable head restraints, seat belts with belt tensioner and belt force limiter on all outer seats and a window bag that also protects the passengers in the third row of seats.
The Premium package further enhances comfort with the KEYLESS GO comfort package, the THERMOTRONIC 2-zone automatic air conditioning, a rich sound system and a wireless charging system for mobile terminals.
The EQB comes with intelligent driver assistance systems with cooperative driver support. The Driving Assistance package now includes additional functions. It includes for example the exit function, the emergency lane function, the exit warning function that warns the driver of passing cyclists or vehicles, and a warning when pedestrians are detected near a zebra crossing.
We show you here some photos of the EQB in the meantime. Stay tuned for, as said, more news about the cars with the iconic star!
The 718 Cayman GT4 RSand718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport
Indeed, there is no Motor Show in Brussels this year. But in the showrooms, there is no lack of news. Also from one of the most iconic sports car manufacturers around: Porsche. Your servant had a good taste of these unique cars in his early days as a (test) driver. Just look at my report in these columns “Some early photos from my automotive beginnings”, where I am to be seen behind the wheel of a 914-6 VW Porsche, or an early 911… Just klick on the link here: https://autoprova.be/2021/03/27/some-early-photos-from-my-automotive-beginnings/
Needless to say that we want to repeat the experience, and collect for you some driving impressions of their latest products. In the meantime, we will present Porsche news on a very regular basis in the future!
Just read on here…
Hans Knol ten Bensel
A three lane future for Porsche…
Porsche is seen cruising into the future in three lanes: alongside exhilarating petrol engines and powerful plug-in hybrids, electric powertrains form the third pillar of the powertrain strategy.
This diversity was clearly seen on display at the LA Auto Show. In total, Porsche exhibits there five world premieres. In addition to the new 718 Cayman GT4 RS – the highlight of the motor show – the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport, the Taycan GTS, the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo and the Panamera Platinum Edition are making their first appearances.
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is the new flagship model in the 718 family. On the Nürburgring Nordschleife, it outpaced its sibling, the 718 Cayman GT4, by more than 23 seconds with a time of 7:04.511 minutes on the 20.6 km version of the circuit.
The heart of this sports car is the 368 kW (500 PS) naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer engine. The maximum torque is 450 Nm. The low-ratio Porsche dual clutch transmission (PDK) underpins the incredible acceleration. The 718 Cayman GT4 RS sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds and has a top speed of 315 km/h.
In Belgium, the new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS can now be ordered at a base price of 153.065 euros (including 21 per cent VAT).
At the same time, the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport racing version will celebrate its premiere in Los Angeles. From 2022, the customer sports car will be launched in multiple national and international racing series.
Truly electrifying: Taycan GTS and Taycan GTS Sport Turismo
With a range of up to 504 km, based on WLTP figures, the new Taycan GTS is the first of the model series to hit the 500-km mark. The new GTS is the sporty all-rounder of the model range. With up to 440 kW (598 PS) of overboost when using Launch Control, its power is impressive to say the least…
The third body variant of the first all-electric Porsche model series is the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo. The newcomer shares its silhouette and rearward-sloping roof line with the Taycan Cross Turismo. It ps practical too: the luggage compartment offers more than 1,200 litres of load capacity under the tailgate.
Both model variants will roll out to dealers in spring 2022. Further engine options for the Sport Turismo will follow soon!
Elegance with the Panamera Platinum Edition
The new Panamera Platinum Edition combines elegant, sporty design and high-quality equipment at an attractive price.
The exterior is characterised by accents in Satin Gloss Platinum. These can be found on the air outlet trims, the PORSCHE logo, the model designation and the standard 21-inch exclusive Design Sport wheels. The side window trims and the sports tailpipes are finished in High-Gloss Black to match. The interior is up to the mark with 14-way electrically adjustable comfort seats, the Black décor made of brushed aluminium and the door sill guards with the Platinum Edition logo. This extensive list of standard equipment also includes LED main headlights with matrix beam including PDLS Plus, adaptive air suspension including PASM, a BOSE® Surround Sound System and much more.
Depending on the market, the Platinum Edition is available as the Panamera, Panamera 4 and Panamera 4 E-Hybrid. The first models will be delivered to customers beginning 2022.
Due to the harsh Covid times, the Belgian Motor Show early next year has been canceled, which is unfortunate for many manufacturers. Renault has some very good news, and since it is not on the show, we will present it here for you on these pages. We have also fond memories of testing the E-Tech plug-in hybrid Mégane Grandtour, Captur and the all electric ZOE. But in the meantime many more interesting Renaults and last but not least Dacia’s are launched, and we hope to collect some test and driving impressions for you soon.
Let’s here have a look at what Renault has up its sleeve for our market(s) here…
Hans Knol ten Bensel
Mégane E-TECH Electric in Belgian premiere
Renault is exhibiting in its dealer showrooms for the first time the all-new Mégane E-TECH Electric, in line with its announced offensive in the compact car segment (C-segment), the largest segment in Europe.
With Renault’s new ‘Nouvel’R’ logo, the Mégane E-TECH Electric represents the transformation of the brand: it symbolizes the reinvention of the core market. It presents itself as unique and technological with the jewel in its interior, the “OpenR” screen that merges the data from the dashboard with the multimedia system as a whole.
New Dacia Jogger…
The New Jogger will be the star of the Dacia showrooms. The Dacia Jogger offers up to seven seats and offers the efficiency of a station wagon, the interior space of a van and the look of an SUV.
With its Spring, Dacia is starting its electric transition. By offering the cheapest electric car on the market, Dacia is making mobility affordable again, just like it did with Logan back then. The success testifies to the market enthusiasm for a simple and affordable electric car, as 40,000 orders have already been registered in Europe, of which more than 650 in Belgium (between July and November).
New Alpine range in world premiere
The new Alpine A110 S
Visitors to the Alpine showrooms can experience the brand new Alpine A110 range in a world premiere. The sporty coupé is now available in three versions, each with its own character. Alpine A110 with its 252 hp 1.8 engine is the entry model and the “purest” version of the range, according to some aficionados. New is the Alpine A110 GT, which shows itself more opulent and more powerful with its 300 hp 1.8 litre engine, is the sports car for everyday rides and long journeys.
Also the new Alpine A110 S presents itself with its specific sports chassis. It can now be fitted optionally with semi-slick tires and an exclusive aerodynamic kit, consisting of a carbon fiber rear spoiler for increased downforce, a carbon fiber front splitter and extended front fairings under the car to increase the efficiency of the rear diffuser and flat floor. We will be keen to collect some driving impressions for you!
Škoda is conquering markets in a very decisive way, and it is more than necessary that we direct our automotive spotlight more to the impressive cars they put on the road nowadays. So we got in touch with Liana Picard, the dynamic PR manager of Škoda Belgium to remedy this once and for all. Soon you will able to read driving impressions of their products.
We turn our attention here to the Karoq, the compact SUV of the brand which hit our markets four years ago. It has now undergone a design and technology update. We lift the veil here already with some design sketches. Its digital media presentation will take place on 30 November.
One of the two design sketches shows the freshened ŠKODA KAROQ’s new front. The ŠKODA grille has increased in width and now features impressive double slats as well as a new hexagonal design, with a wide air intake underneath. The headlights are overall more slender and extend all the way to the grille.
Redesigned daytime running lights are now composed of two separate elements each. Underneath is a second lighting unit for the fog lights or, in the top variant, a separate LED module. This headlight configuration enables a characteristic four-eyed driving lights look after dark.
The second sketch previews the KAROQ’s redesigned rear. In addition to a longer rear spoiler and a visually updated rear apron with a black diffuser, the tail lights now sport a new, sharply drawn design as well. Like the headlights, they have been slimmed down and emphasize the vehicle’s width. In signature ŠKODA style, crystalline structures add a special visual effect to the tail lights, which will retain their characteristic C-shaped graphic.
But soon more in a few days… just look at the sketches for now!
At my recent visit to the Ford Europe proving ground in Lommel I got a taste of Ford cars, and I must admit that I was very impressed by their excellent dynamic qualities. A good reason to take a closer look at their products and what Ford is up to lately.
Today they announced the following generation of their evergreen in the pick-up scene, the Ranger. In fact, Ford engineers and designers teamed up with customers around the world to create a pick-up they can rely on for work, family and play. They changed the exterior design and designed a more high-tech, inviting interior.
The design features a defined new grille, and signature C‑clamp headlight treatment at the front while we also see bolder wheel arches which gives Ranger a sure-footed stance. For the first time, Ford Ranger offers matrix LED headlights.
Beneath the new bodywork is an upgraded chassis riding on a wheelbase 50 mm longer and a track 50 mm wider than the prior Ranger.
New powertrain choices
Customers wanted a choice of more power and torque for towing heavy loads and extreme off‑roading, so the team added Ford’s proven 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel and developed it for the Ranger.
The next-gen Ranger will also come with a choice of proven Single-Turbo and Bi-Turbo 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder diesels.
Improved ride and handling
To develop the ride and handling expected of a truck customer’s use for a wide range of work, family and play – engineers focused on the fundamentals.
Engineers moved the front wheels forward by 50 mm for a better approach angle and outboard for better off-road articulation, both of which improve the off‑roading experience. They also shifted the rear suspension dampers outboard of the frame rails to give drivers and passengers a better ride both on- and off‑road, no matter if they’re carrying heavy cargo for work, or just taking the family out for dinner.
Customers will have a choice of two four-wheel drive systems – an electronic shift-on-the-fly system, or an advanced new full-time four-wheel drive system with a reassuring set-and-forget mode, designed for capability when and where customers need it. Off-road recovery is made easier with prominent dual recovery hooks in the front bumper.
Customer-focused interior
Customers wanted a flexible, modern cockpit that caters to both work and family duties. So, Ranger needs to serve as both a workspace and a haven, providing smart and connected features with more comfort and storage options than ever before.
The heart of the Ranger’s connective experience is the large 10.1-inch or 12-inch touchscreen in the centre stack. It complements the fully digital instrument panel.
Many of the traditional driving mode controls have been moved from the dash and centre console to their own dedicated display on the SYNC™ screen. With one button press, drivers can go to Ranger’s dedicated screen for all off-road and drive modes where they can monitor the driveline, steering angle, vehicle pitch and roll angles and other controls.
Better access…
Ford designers created an integrated side-step behind the rear tyres of the next‑generation Ranger, to create a strong, more stable way for them to access the box.
Additional thoughtful, customer-focused touches include a new, tough plastic-moulded bedliner that helps protect both the truck bed from scratches and owners’ knees from kneeling on a steel truck bed.
Durable, flexible load box caps around the sides of the box and across the tailgate conceal structural attachment points for canopies and other aftermarket accessories.
In addition, Ranger offers a new cargo management system designed with dividers to hold various sized items – like timber or toolboxes.
Accessories to help you personalize your Ranger…
Customers in Europe will be able to personalise their next-gen Ranger from launch with a range of over 150 fully factory‑backed work, urban and adventure accessories.
Order books for next-generation Ranger will open in Europe in late 2022 for customer delivery in early 2023. The current Ranger is Europe’s pick-up segment leader and recently set a new September year-to-date sales record of 45,539 units, with market share of 39.9 per cent.
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