We told you that the ë-C4 shares its platform with the DS3 amongst others, and the E-range improvements are therefore also implemented for the ë-C4.
Indeed, since October, the ë-C4s have benefited from the same technological developments, resulting in an increase of the approved range in the WLTP cycle to 357 km; This represents a longer field range by almost 30 km, depending on the conditions of use.
Manufactures are also helping their fleet customers via software (updates) to optimize the cost management and use of their car fleets.
Therefore, Citroën has been helping its C5 Aircross Plug-In Hybrid customers in France and the United Kingdom with the Plug-in-Reminder system to reduce their fuel consumption and environmental impact by displaying messages on the car’s screen that invite them to charge the car. The ideal time for charging is set by the on-board computer when it registers that the fuel consumption of the car can be optimized based on the number of trips made and the number of times the car has been charged. This system will be extended to Europe in early 2022 and will be fitted in the C5 X. With PHEV Connect, Citroën helps fleet managers manage their plug-in hybrid fleet and optimize their costs. PHEV Connect has been deployed in Europe since March 2021 and already covers more than 7,400 vehicles…
Continuing its electrification strategy which was already established when the brand was founded in 2014, DS Automobiles is continuing its energy transition with the launch of a new plug-in hybrid package for the flagship DS 9. We will drive the new DS9 for you mid January, and we are certainly looking forward to it!
The DS 9 E-TENSE 250 features a 200 hp 4-cylinder PureTech engine, accompanied by an 80 kW (110 hp) electric motor. A new 15.6 kWh (total capacity) battery, with an unchanged number of cells, delivers up to 70 kilometers on the WLTP city cycle (EAER City) or 61 kilometers on the WLTP combined cycle with an unchanged vehicle weight. The 7.4 kW on-board charger allows charging from 0-100% in merely 2 hours and 23 minutes.
CO2 emissions drop to merely 26 g/km, with a certified fuel consumption of 1.1 litres/100 km according to the WLTP combined cycle.
Performance leaves nothing to be desired: top speed of the DS 9 E-TENSE 250 is electronically limited to 240 km/h, with the possibility of reaching 135 km/h on electric drive only.
The DS 9 E-TENSE 250 costs €55,990 (incl. VAT) in Belgium in its PERFORMANCE LINE + version and €59,990 (incl. VAT) in Belgium in its RIVOLI + version.
More on this stylish flagship DS9 here below. Just read further!
Hans Knol ten Bensel
Refinement for the eye and touch… in different equipment levels
As its top of the range model, the DS9 stands out, as you could expect, in sheer refinement.
The DS 9 PERFORMANCE LINE + has chrome front door badges with the DS PERFORMANCE LINE logo, DS WINGS and a chrome boot lid. The radiator grille in brilliant black is topped off by the DS PERFORMANCE LINE emblem. The 19″ aluminum MONACO Black wheels are enhanced up by a Carmine wheel core.
In the interior, one finds mixed Alcantara®/black leather seats with Carmine and gold stitching complementing the Alcantara® center console and dashboard.
On the dashboard, your eyes rest on a DS PERFORMANCE LINE badge executed in turned aluminum.
A crystal insert on the control panel below the central screen adds a further touch of sophistication. The multifunction steering wheel is crafted in perforated full-grain leather with a leather-wrapped airbag cushion and handmade Carmine and Gold stitching.
The DS 9 RIVOLI + is inspired by the Tuileries district and combines noble materials with high-quality diamond-shaped decorations. Three different interiors are offered: Basalt Black in grained leather or OPERA with a choice of two shades of Nappa leather, highlighted by Ruby Red or Black strap-on seats.
The elegance of the OPERA version is illustrated by the use of nappa leather on the seats, rear seat, center console, door panels and upholstered instrument panel.
A high-quality rear center armrest and adjustable Lounge headrests complete the comfort package for the rear seats.
The nobility of materials sooths your senses with an all-leather steering wheel, smooth leather-covered gear knob, leather-wrapped grab handles, aluminum accents on the pedals and center console, Alcantara® headliner, sun visor and parcel shelf, and haute-couture-inspired mother-of-pearl stitching.
Building on the research carried out since the brand’s inception, acoustic insulation is also further enhanced.
Acoustic and laminated glazing is combined with a state of the art welded body which dampens vibrations. You can also enjoy the sound of a 515 W FOCAL Electra® Hi-Fi system, developed especially for the DS 9, with stainless steel tweeter grilles beneath the fourteen speakers, ideally placed throughout the cabin for an auditorium-like audio experience.
Behind the wheel, you are safely assisted by the latest tech…
The DS 9 benefits from the advanced technologies that make the other models in the DS range so outstanding. With DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION, a camera at the top of the windshield scans the road, while four position sensors and three accelerometers record all movements and transmit the information to a computer that can react to each wheel individually to improve safety, comfort and ease of use.
With DS DRIVE ASSIST, the DS 9 allows its driver to enjoy a level 2 semi-autonomous driving behavior.
The speed is controlled according to the environment in which the DS 9 is driven. The system uses sensors to precisely position the car in its lane of the driver’s choice by acting on the steering. DS DRIVE ASSIST can be used at speeds of up to 180 km/h and controls speed and trajectory under the driver’s supervision to ensure comfort and peace of mind.
The speed is controlled by an adaptive controller, which makes it possible to manage the driving conditions in traffic jams: the car restarts automatically after a stop of less than three seconds. If the car is stationary for a longer period of time, the DS 9 is restarted in traffic with a simple push of a button or a touch on the accelerator pedal.
DS DRIVE ASSIST’s on-board camera detects solid and broken lines. While driving, it constantly analyzes the image and deciphers situations. It keeps the vehicle in its lane, or even in the part of the lane desired by the driver. If the driver prefers to regain control of the steering, he or she cancels the correction by holding the steering wheel firmly. The change is also interrupted when the direction indicators are activated. The system can be activated from 30 km/h.
When parking, the DS PARK PILOT function detects parking spaces when driving at a speed of up to 30 km/h. The driver then indicates on the touchscreen that he or she wants to park in a stroke or a slot. Then there’s only one thing to do: press the Park button and wait for the technology to work. Acceleration, braking and steering are controlled automatically. DS PARK PILOT also makes it possible to leave a parking space.
On long journeys, DS SAFETY combines a series of key functions: DS NIGHT VISION, DS DRIVER ATTENTION MONITORING, DS ACTIVE LED VISION, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, comprehensive traffic sign recognition and active lane departure warning.
DS NIGHT VISION offers an exceptional view of the road at night. The infrared camera, located in the radiator grille, detects pedestrians, cyclists and animals on the road up to 150 meters away. The driver sees the scene of the accident on the large digital handset, with hazards displayed in yellow and then red depending on the degree of hazard. He can then respond.
DS DRIVER ATTENTION MONITORING uses an infrared camera on the top of the steering column and a camera on the top of the windshield to continuously monitor the driver’s eyes for fatigue (blinking), face (direction of gaze) and head movement for distractions, as well as the trajectory of the driver. car on the road, especially driver anomalies or steering inputs. For example, it can identify any drop in vigilance due to an anomaly in any of the factors – blinking, non-linear and erratic movements – and automatically trigger an audible and visual alarm on the central screen, day and night.
In addition to the visual pleasure provided by the modules that light up and rotate 180° at the counter, the DS ACTIVE LED VISION can be adapted in width and reach to the driving conditions and the speed of the car. Different lighting modes are automatically activated: Parking, Town Beam (increased beam from the third second of driving), Country Beam (focused on the front from 50 km/h), Motorway Beam (increased range from 110 km/h), Adverse Weather (activated when the windscreen wipers are on, increased module power and reduced high beam intensity) and High Beam (maximum illumination combined with automatic high beam switching). The “revolving headlamps” function completes the offer. By illuminating the road better and further, or with a wider beam of light, the driver – and the passengers – gain in safety.
Needless to say that we are looking forward to sample driving impressions of this new version of this refined “grande routière”, and as said, we can tell you already that we will drive the new DS9 for you mid January, so stay tuned on these columns!
We will unveil also soon some more Citroën news, a bigger range for the ë-C4 and Citroën informs its B2C and B2B clients to make still better use if their plug-in hybrid C5 aircross…
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!
Autoprova - for the Connaisseur 