Auto Express - 30 March 2016

30 Mar-5 Apr 2016
No. 1,415 | 3.00
Our thrilling first taste

of 200mph Jag
Classy hatch oon

way to UK
EXCLUSIVE IMAGE Renault targets Focus RS with 4WD stormer
OFFICIAL 202mpg plug-in Prius
www.autoexpress.co.uk
Boxy look axed as SUV

turns on the style
C@ntrol MSS
Contents
News | New Cars | Features | Tests | Products | Buying cars | Sport
Newsweek
COVER New Skoda Yeti
Exclusive images and details of next-generation SUV
COVER F-Type SVR blasts off
10
COVER 202mpg plug-in Prius
12
COVER New Subaru Impreza
15
Call for tighter rules on safety
17
COVER New Mgane RS exclusive
18
More Nissan EVs coming
20
We get behind the wheel of sensational new Jaguar

Toyotas eco star leads the unveils at New York show
Wraps come off hatch that is destined for the UK
Rethink needed as some cars would get zero stars in crash tests
4WD and 300bhp on way for Renaultsport hot hatch
New platform will pave way for additional models to join Leaf
Features
24
50 years of chart-toppers
We look at Britains best sellers over the past ve decades
New cars
8 Exclusive images and details of new Skoda Yeti
NYSHOW STARS
BMW X5 xDrive40e
28
VW Passat BlueMotion
30
Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer
33
Vauxhall Viva ecoFLEX
34
E-Class V6 diesel
36
Skoda Fabia
38
First UK drive of new plug-in hybrid version of SUV favourite

Does fuel-sipping saloon demand any compromises?
Whisper diesel adds extra appeal to classy estate
City car gets eco tweaks for improved efciency
Our verdict on Mercedes muscular new E 350d
15 Subaru reveals new Impreza hatch
10 Blast-off in Jaguars F-Type SVR
Online
this week
Colour Edition adds some extra air to supermini favourite
Road tests
COVER 7 Series vs rivals
40
Polo BlueMotion vs 208 BlueHDi
50
Our cars
58
Luxurious BMW takes on Mercedes S-Class and Jaguar XJ
Petrol vs diesel as VW and Peugeot eco superminis ght it out

Updates on the Ford S-MAX and Caterham Seven 270S
Products
New on the shelves
64
Sat-navs tested
68
The latest kit, including GT Radials performance tyre
12 Toyotas new 202mpg plug-in Prius
Best
new
sat-navs
tested
Page 64
We celebrate Jeeps
75th birthday in style
JEEP is celebrating its 75th
anniversary this year and to
mark the occasion, the US 4x4
manufacturer is taking a range
of new and historic models to
the Moab desert, Utah (above).
Our editor at large James
Batchelor will be driving
everything from the 1949
Willys Wagon to the 1977
Cherokee Chief, plus Jeeps
new 75th Anniversary Special
Editions. Head online for our
unrivalled coverage of what
will be a truly spectacular event.
For more visit
18 4WD and 300bhp on way for sizzling new Mgane RS

autoexpress.co.uk
Which is the best portable device for you? We reveal all
Buying cars
Clio buyers guide
72
Best family cars
74
New car prices
78
Latest generation of Renault supermini is great value used

Our experts name the top ve choices on the market
All the info you need before you head to the showroom
Regulars
Consumer news
22
Get Auto Express every week
39
Sport
88
Back chat
90
Watchdog solves your problems, plus you have your say
How to net a great deal on your favourite magazine
WEC racers revealed, plus all the latest news

Mike Rutherford is impressed by a frugal diesel supermini
30 March 2016 5
This week
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for all the latest new cars news

Editor-in-chief: Steve Fowler
Editor: Graham Hope
Deputy editor: John McIlroy
News
News editor: Richard Ingram

Deputy news editor: Jonathan Burn
News reporters: Lawrence Allan, Sam Naylor
Road tests
Road test editor: James Disdale

Deputy road test editor: Dean Gibson
Senior road tester: Sean Carson
Road tester: Lesley Harris
Could Mazdas World Car win

be the start of something big?
Contact us
Consumer
Consumer editor: Joe Finnerty

Consumer reporter: Martin Saarinen
Products editor: Kim Adams
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Managing editor: Stuart Morton

Sub-editor: Stuart Newman
Production editor: Becky Wells
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Website editor: Steve Walker

Editor-at-large and
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Web producer: Pete Baiden
Content editors: Jake Groves, Tom Wiltshire,
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Carbuyer web producer: Tom Goodlad
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Design & Pictures
Art director: Darren Wilson

Deputy art editor: George Vedmore
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Special Contributors
SteveSutcliffe, Mike Rutherford,

Andreas Conradt, Peter Lyon,
Sarah Bradley, Julie Sinclair
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AUTO EXPRESS ROADTESTS
All Auto Express tests are carried out at private proving groundswherecars
aredriventothelimitandperformance tested using RacelogicVBox
computer timing equipment. Auto Express also assesses the cars over
many miles of mixed public roads before delivering its RoadTestVerdict.
Auto Express is part of the

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AFTER years of coming close, Mazda has

won the 2016 World Car of the Year Award
for the new MX-5, presented at the New York
Motor Show last week. Myself and columnist
Mike Rutherford joined 70 other jurors in this
increasingly influential awards ceremony one
thats usually dominated by big German brands.
With BMWs 7 Series winning Luxury Car of the
Year and Audis R8 winning Performance Car of the
Year, there was still something for the usual suspects
to celebrate and deservedly so with those models.
But little Mazda stole the show as it did at the
New York show itself. The stunning MX-5 RF with
its Targa-esque folding roof wowed the crowds
and provided more reasons why the MX-5 also
won the World Car Design of the Year trophy.
The Mazda team, with MX-5 programme
manager Nobuhiro Yamamoto and Mazdas US
boss Masahiro Moro collecting the award above,
has every right to be happy. The MX-5 has always
been the star of Mazdas line-up, but now the
rest of the model range is shining brightly, too.
As a former Mazda owner (I loved the 323 that
was my second car), Ive enjoyed seeing how the
company has carved its niche in todays market. Its
obsessed with two things: style and weight. Theres
no denying the cars look great, while its unique
approach to taking weight out of its cars, improving
efficiency and driver appeal, is clearly working.
So Mazda has all the ingredients to be a major hit
and sales are up, yet its a brand that seems to punch
below its weight sales of 50,000 a year in the UK
are good, not great, especially when you look at the
cars. Awareness is key, so awards like these help.
Mazda prides itself
on offering something
different. And I think that
different is becoming
increasingly appealing.
STEVE FOWLER
Editor-in-chief
The paper used within this magazine is produced from
sustainable fibre, manufactured by mills with a
valid chain of custody.
Steve_Fowler@dennis.co.uk
@stevefowler
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30 March 2016 7
c
First for news every week
:f] : -]: S:r f :]: Sf :f

*:r :f] .y: :] fS: J] ]f :f]
Sam Naylor
S
Sam
Sam_Naylor@dennis.co.uk
@SamNaylor_AE
SKODA is preparing a replacement for

its Yeti with more space, a new engine
range and a more traditional crossover
look, as seen in our exclusive images.
It will share much of its DNA with the new
SEAT Ateca and Volkswagen Tiguan, with all
three SUVs riding on variations of VWs MQB
platform and a hybrid is on the way, too.
Skoda boss Bernhard Maier told
Auto Express: It is not a surprise that
there will be a successor for the Yeti. This
is already in development; it looks
beautiful and perfectly fits to the brand.
While the current cars Tonka toy looks
are a distinctive feature and have helped
the Yeti to huge sales success, the new
model will feature more traditional styling
with a sleeker look, incorporating the design
language set out by the Vision S concept
from the Geneva Motor Show, also set
for the Kodiaq seven-seater which will be
unveiled at Octobers Paris Motor Show.
The new look kept us in intense
discussions as we have a real fanbase for
the current Yeti, Maier told us. We have
asked our customers about the design, and
one thing is clear: the new design language
for our SUVs will also apply to the new Yeti.
The previously upright rear hatch will be
replaced by a more raked version, giving the
car a much sleeker profile than before. Slim
tail-lights feature Skodas signature light
pattern and split as the tailgate is opened.

A four-light headlamp arrangement and
clamshell bonnet mean the Yeti shares
its face with the upcoming Kodiaq, while
slim LED headlights and a wide grille
complete the look, with more than a
hint of the new Superb in the design, too.
Squared-off wheelarches, sculpted
side panels and larger sills will give
the car definition in profile. Inside, we
expect a simple design with a focus on
maximising space, but with the use of
quality materials for a more upmarket feel.
The new Yeti will be more practical
than the current car as well, with a bigger
boot and more space in the cabin for
passengers. The SEAT Ateca has a 510-litre
load area, so expect an increase of over 100
litres on the current Yetis 416-litre capacity.
While four-wheel drive on some models
is likely to cut into load space, Skoda intends
to make sure that future hybrid versions
will retain the cars pragmatic character.
Hybrids are something we are discussing
for all of our product line-up, Maier told us.
Our engineers are working to find
the best solution for Skoda for hybrid
technology. Whatever Skoda brings we will
stand to our core values, irrespective of the
!

. .
Raked hatch
will give Yeti a more traditional

look, while light signatures
are as seen on Vision S
Avarvarii
8 30 March 2016
News
Jaguar F-Type SVR
The performance figures are

staggering; this is now an
F-Type that can hit 200mph
John McIlroy
John_McIlroy@dennis.co.uk
@johnmcilroy
JAGUAR Land Rovers Special Vehicle

Operations division has focused on the
SUV brand so far, with high-performance
Range Rovers. Now its time for Jaguar
to get the treatment and weve had
a short blast through a specially
closed stretch of road in New York to
experience how the F-Type SVR sounds.
Available as a Coup or a Convertible,
the F-Type SVR gets an updated version of
the regular F-Type Rs 5.0-litre supercharged
V8 petrol engine. Theres an extra 25bhp
on tap, taking overall power output to
567bhp, along with 700Nm of torque.
The SVR is available only with four-wheel
drive and an eight-speed automatic
gearbox just like the set-up youll
find in the Range Rover Sport SVR.
The performance figures are pretty
staggering; this is now an F-Type that
can hit 200mph (195mph if you choose
the open-top), and crack the 0-60mph
10 30 March 2016
New Jaguar F-Type

Behind wheel of 200mph SVR
Sensational V8 engine roar
sprint in just 3.5 seconds (a gain of 0.4

seconds over the already potent R).
Throw in uprated suspension, revised
steering, a bespoke aerodynamic diffuser
and front splitter, plus forged alloy wheels,
and you end up with a heady, exclusive
performance cocktail that Jaguar thinks is
worth 110,000 in Coup form a hefty
20k hike over the R. The Convertible
is even more pricey at 115,485.
There is one further tweak that you get for
all that cash, though and thats the reason
Jaguar closed the Park Road Tunnel in New
York for a few hours on the evening before the
citys motor show. The tunnel is 422 metres
The F-Type SVRs tone is like a

highly tuned NASCAR engine
Jaguar F-Type SVR
News
CLOSED
ROAD
Our man McIlroy

gets ready for
blast-off in New
Yorks Park Road
Tunnel, which
has been lit up
especially
but the F-Type
SVRs rumbling
soundtrack
provides all
the drama
OFFICIAL
GROWTH
Theres lots of
future growth for
the sub-brand,
says managing
director John
Edwards
Q&A
JOHN EDWARDS
Managing director, SVO
BOSS of JLRs Special Vehicle Operations division

talks about F-Type SVR, and brands future plans.
The new F-Type SVR has 567bhp from its 5.0-litre

supercharged V8. Is this the limit for this engine?
A There are always ways and means, but yes, I think

were getting close to the limit, the way things stand.
e SVR blasts off

UPGRADE
F-Type is the first

Jaguar to benefit
from SVO input; it
has 25bhp more
power and feels
more aggressive
long, runs for five blocks and was fitted with

extra lighting for dramatic effect but JLR
stopped short of resurfacing the road, which
is battered and broken due to daily use by
portly American vehicles, for our brief drive.
From the outset, it was clear that the
SVRs four-wheel-drive system would be
working hard to find traction. We were told
to feed in the throttle as progressively as
possible but even so, there was enough
grunt for kick-in-the-kidneys acceleration
and an immediate realisation that the car
would pull us all over the tunnel road
as it distributed the power as best it could.
And the noise? The Jag V8 already makes
a sensational sound in the R, but the SVRs
tone is even more like that of a highly tuned
NASCAR engine, with a purer, cleaner rasp
to it. The gearshifts from the eight-speed

auto are punchy and fast, and accompanied
by a guttural noise. A lift of the throttle
confirmed that those crackling pops from
the exhaust overrun are still present,
despite the switch from a single silencer
on the R to a new twin-silencer set-up.
It is next to impossible, of course, to
discern any real nuances in the SVRs
dynamic make-up in a few hundred metres
of poor-quality tunnel road. But it does feel
more aggressive on throttle response than
the R and, four-wheel drive or not, it will
be an intense experience on all but the
straightest and driest of routes.
This was a brief taste of what the F-Type
SVR has to offer, but well be behind the
wheel again in June to deliver a final verdict.
Why is it 4WD? Shouldnt SVR be about extreme

performance and driving pleasure, favouring rear-drive?
A I think we decided, quite early on, that we wanted

four-wheel drive across the SVR sub-brand. I think its
about driveability, so using the car every day. Global
sales potential is a key factor in the decision, too.
Q SVR seems to be growing in a steady but measured

fashion. Is it limited by marketing reach, how far the
brand can stretch, or engineering resource?
A At the moment, demand is outstripping our ability
to supply on a number of products. Thats down to some

initial forecasts if you suggest beforehand youre going
to make 20 a week, and demand is for 30 per week, you
need to reassess elements across your supply chain.
Q Your products have been at the higher end of Jaguar

and Land Rover ranges. Does that mean we wouldnt
see SVO involved in models further down the line-ups?
A No, not at all. We have a wealth of possibilities
in front of us and we need to prioritise them, based

on cold, hard business models. We have no obligation
to produce variants based on every car. Were guided
by the business case and customer demand.
30 March 2016 11
News
New York Motor Show round-up
Big hitters out in force fo

202mpg Prius is worlds
greenest plug-in
James Batchelor
James_Batchelor@dennis.co.uk
@JRRBatchelor
Bigger battery pack, better aero

boost Toyotas EV range to 30 miles
Claimed 202mpg
economy makes it the
most efficient plugin hybrid on sale
Lawrence Allan
Lawrence_Allan@dennis.co.uk
@LobAllan
JUST weeks after the latest Toyota

Prius hybrid arrived in the UK, the
Plug-In version of Toyotas eco car has
broken cover at the New York Motor Show.
Known as the Prius Prime in the US, it
features different styling to the standard car,
more tech and claimed 202mpg economy.
That will make it the most efficient plug-in
hybrid on sale when it arrives later this year.
Its the second generation of the Plug-In
Prius, and it will sit alongside the regular
model in the range. It uses the same 1.8litre petrol as the hybrid, yet the powertrain
gains a larger 8.8kWh lithium-ion battery
pack and dual motor drive system.
The impressive fuel economy figure makes
it 108mpg more frugal than the regular Prius
on paper. Claimed CO2 emissions of 32g/km
are 38g/km lower than the normal cars
and also give it a 7g/km advantage over
the VW Golf GTE one of its closest rivals.
Toyota claims the Plug-In can be driven at
up to 84mph in pure electric mode, with an
EV range of 30 miles twice that of the old
petrol-electric model. Charging time is said
to be around two hours and 20 minutes. No

performance figures have been released,
but class-leading acceleration is promised.
New tech such as a battery-powered
heating system and gas injection air-con
helps the Prius avoid using its petrol engine
wherever possible, while the tweaked
exterior means a lower drag coefficient, too.
This is thanks to the new body, which is
15mm wider and 20mm lower to the ground
than the standard Prius, and features such
as the new double-bubble tailgate glass and
active grille shutter. Unique headlamps and
boomerang-style LED lights help it stand out.
BODY Plug-In is wider
and lower than regular

Prius, which reduces drag
Audi unleashes new 532bhp R8 Spyder

ON the Audi stand, the new R8 Spyder was rolled out to a
stunned New York crowd. The V10 drop-tops debut follows
our undisguised spy shots in Issue 1,413, and the car on
display is indistinguishable from the one we scooped just
two weeks ago. Its due to go on sale later this year.
As youd expect, the Spyder shares much of its exterior
design with the fixed-roof Coup, save for a few tweaks. It
gets the same gaping grille and sharp headlights, as well
as identical gills in the bumper and bodywork. Despite
chopping the roof off, Audi designers have managed to
neatly hide the rag-top under the R8s raised haunches.
The glass panel above the engine from the Coup is
replaced by extra cooling vents, while the roof can be
raised or lowered in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph.
The Spyder has the same 532bhp 5.2-litre V10 and S tronic
dual-clutch box as the hard-top, which sees it cover 0-62mph
in 3.6 seconds. Thats one-tenth slower than the Coup,
and top speed has reduced by 1mph to 198mph. UK pricing
hasnt been released, but we can expect a premium of around
10,000 over the hard-top, which starts from 119,500.
12 30 March 2016
NYSHOW STAR
DESIGN
Spyder has same grille and

headlights as Coup; roof
folds in 20 seconds
New York Motor Show round-up
or New York show

NYSHOW STAR
CHARGING
Toyota claims
the Plug-In
can be fully
charged in just
two hours and
20 minutes
More power, fresh look as

Nissan revises GT-R again
News
New York
news inbrief
AMG lifts the lid on

new 503bhp C 63
NYSHOW STAR
NISSAN has tweaked the GT-R once
again, and the updated 2017 model has
debuted at the New York Motor Show.
The brand is calling the changes the most
significant since the model was introduced
in 2007. There are refreshed looks and a
new interior, while the cars V6 engine
has been boosted to give more power.
The most noticeable bodywork change is at
the front. The GT-R now wears a matt-finished
V-motion grille to bring it in line with cars like
the Qashqai and X-Trail, while a redesigned
bumper and air vents have been added, too.
Inside, quality has gone up a notch, with the
entire dashboard now covered in leather, and
theres a new, larger eight-inch touchscreen.
Its 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 offers 20bhp more
power, at 562bhp, while theres also new
sports suspension and a titanium exhaust.
NEW LOOK
Behind latest
family grille,
GT-R benefits
from a power
hike, with V6
offering 562bhp
Genesis previews 3 Series rival

ALSO on display in the Big Apple is the Genesis New
York Concept. And the four-door saloon gives us an
idea of how future models from Hyundais premium
brand could look in particular its BMW 3 Series rival.
Genesis says the concept is its modern view
of luxury, with a full-leather interior, floating
21-inch curved display screen and four individual
sculpted seats. The centre console runs down the
spine of the car and divides the cabin into two
separate parts, creating a more lounge-like feel.
Its also a hybrid, although Genesis is being coy
on what sort of electric propulsion is helping power
the concept. What we do know, however, is that
beneath the bonnet is a 242bhp 2.0-litre turbo
engine paired with an eight-speed automatic box.
Its been designed by Luc Donckerwolke, who also
penned the Lamborghini Gallardo and Bentley Flying
Spur. On the outside, thin horizontal headlamps frame
the wide mesh grille, while airflow guides sit below
the lights to improve aerodynamic efficiency.
NYSHOW STAR
MERCEDES-AMG revealed its new

C 63 Cabriolet in New York. The rangetopping convertible (above) will sit
above the less potent C 43 drop-top
in the line-up, and gets the 4.0-litre
twin-turbo V8 from the C 63 saloon.
It produces 469bhp in standard
form, while the S version gets 503bhp.
The regular car can do 0-62mph in 4.2
seconds, with the S taking one-tenth
less. Prices will be confirmed in May, but
we expect it to start at around 65,000.
Hotter Discovery
Sport on the way?
LAND Rover has hinted that a hotter
version of the Discovery Sport could be
on the way. Speaking to Auto Express
at the New York Motor Show, a senior
source told us that there is plenty
of room for a more dynamic variant
before you get anywhere near an SVR.
Production of all-new Ingenium petrol
engines will begin later this year, so its
likely a powerful 2.0-litre turbo for the
seven-seat SUV could be on the cards.
Luxurious Kia hints

at future UK saloon
KIA has revealed its new Cadenza
flagship (below) in New York, but it
wont be coming to the UK. Instead,
it previews the brands future design
language and the possibility of a luxury
saloon that could be offered in Europe.
New driver assistance systems debut,
while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
tech will make its way on to Kias UK
range soon. The Cadenza is sold with
a 3.3-litre V6 engine only, and will be
available to order in the US from May.
PREMIUM
Striking saloon
shows how new
Genesis 3 Series
rival is shaping
up, and features
hybrid power
30 March 2016 13
Subaru unveiled in New York

Based on new Global Platform
NY SHOW STAR
Richard Ingram
Richard_Ingram@dennis.co.uk
@rsp_ingram
WE revealed the new Subaru Impreza

saloon in Issue 1,414, but now the
wraps are off the European-spec five-door
hatchback, due here later this year.
Unveiled at the New York Motor Show,
the new VW Golf-rivalling family car lifts
its front-end styling almost unchanged
from the saloon, with a similarly
sculpted bumper, grille and
headlights. The changes come
at the back, though, where the
traditional three-box design makes
way for a UK-friendly hatch. Theres
a whiff of Infiniti Q30 at the rear,
with high-set tail-lamps, a sharp
bumper and subtle roof spoiler.
Like the saloon, the Impreza
hatchback sits on Subarus new Global
Platform. The complex underpinnings
will form the basis of several new Subarus
in the coming years, with the flexibility to
cater for everything from hatch to SUV.
The cabin gets a major overhaul, with a
cleaner, less cluttered layout. All models
come with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Android
Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities,
electric windows and electric door
mirrors. Four trims are available, and on
the top-spec Limited buyers will be
treated to a larger touchscreen,
MOVING UP More stylish new

look is complemented inside by more
hi-tech cabin with a less cluttered layout
keyless entry and start, climate control
and a Harman Kardon sound system.
Under the bonnet, Subarus trademark
boxer engines will be retained but in an
updated form that could incorporate
cylinder deactivation technology.
Full-time four-wheel drive will continue
to be standard on all cars, helping it
stand out from front-drive rivals.
The underpinnings
will form the basis
of several new Subarus
over the next few years
MX-5 hard-top raises the roof

MAZDA wowed the New York Motor Show
with the new MX-5 RF. It follows the folding
hard-top version of the previous-generation
car, which accounted for around 80 per
cent of sales before it was axed in 2014.
Nobuhiro Yamamoto, program manager
of MX-5, told Auto Express: We wanted the
cars to have two different characters: the
soft-top is more casual and the RF is more
formal. Thats reflected in the interior, too,
with a higher-quality feel and a new
LCD display in the dash.
At the same time,
Mazda also revealed
it will continue to
t
eschew electric and
hybrid tech and
concentrate on
improving the
efficiency of its
NY SHOW STAR
CHARACTER
MX-5 RF is
designed to be
more formal than
the sof
softt-to
top,
p, and
offers a more
upmarket
upmarket cabin
AND CX-9 COMING, TOO?
range of petrol and diesel engines.

This combined with more lightweight
tech in its cars will see significant
improvements in fuel economy of
between 20 and 30 per cent, according
to Mazda Europe boss, Jeff Guyton.
MAZDAS new CX-9 (above), a rival

for the Land Rover Discovery Sport,
could come to Europe according
to the brands European boss.
Speaking to us in New York, Jeff
Guyton said bringing the CX-9 across
the Atlantic was a possibility.
Mazdas burgeoning SUV range
already features the CX-3 and larger
CX-5, both of which are selling
strongly, while a new, sportier
CX-4 model will be revealed at
next months Beijing Motor Show.
EU regulations
News
Call to update car safety rules

Minimum standard cars would receive zero stars in tests Proposal to make AEB standard
Joe Finnerty
Joe_Finnerty@dennis.co.uk
@AE_Consumer
EU safety regulations are said to need

an urgent overhaul, after a report
by the European Transport Safety Council
(ETSC) revealed a car built to the current
minimum standard would receive a
zero-star rating in a Euro NCAP test.
The ETSC says policymakers have relied
on the voluntary Euro NCAP test system
to drive safety improvements for the past
20 years, so laws have become outdated.
It wants tech such as Intelligent Speed
Assistance, Advanced Seatbelt Reminders
and Automated Emergency Braking (AEB)
to be made standard, and mandatory rules
upgraded to match current Euro NCAP
tests when laws are revised this year.
According to the report, more work
needs to be done to compare real-world
collisions to lab results, too, as although
several studies have found a correlation
between higher star ratings and a
reduced chance of death or serious
injury, this isnt always the case.
It warned an increase in tech will
distance real-world and lab results further,
as systems such as AEB and lane assist are
only tested in a limited and standardised
way. The ETSC also called for a new open
EU database of collision investigation
information, funded by a nominal
contribution on the cost of every car sold.
Other proposals included restricting tax
benefits to cars that combine low emissions
with top safety ratings. Green tax breaks in
Denmark and the Netherlands boosted sales

of smaller cars with lower safety ratings.
Higher minimum standards for pedestrian
protection need to be mandated, too.
The ETSC report comes a week after the
US took similar action, and 20 car makers
agreed to make AEB standard on all models
by 2022. Latest figures show half of cars
sold in the UK last year were fitted with
some form of autonomous safety tech.
Antonio Avenoso, executive director
of the ETSC, said: While Europe is still
a leader in safety, this report shows
the benefits are not equally spread.
We need an overhaul of car safety
in the EU to ensure the latest
advances benefit the majority.
In the past, it has taken 20 years
for technologies such as Electronic
Stability Control (ESC) to be made
mandatory. This should not be allowed
to happen again with new tech
such as AEB, Intelligent Speed
Assistance and passenger
Seatbelt Reminders.
OFFICIAL
NO STARS
Cars built to
the minimum
EU standard
would receive
zero stars from
Euro NCAP, new
report claims
TVR confirms new Welsh home

OFFICIAL
Nissan ploughs 22m

into Sunderland plant
TVR has confirmed that its new production facility
will be based in Ebbw Vale, Gwent. The project
represents over 30million of capital expenditure
over the next five years, and will form the basis of
TVRs resurgence, with a new model due in 2017.
As revealed by Auto Express earlier this month,
the reborn British manufacturer was looking to
Wales for sites where it could produce its new V8
model, which uses Cosworth-tuned Ford power
and will be made using a process conceived by

Gordon Murray, who designed the McLaren F1.
TVR is expected to employ around 150 people
for its new facility. However, its not clear if this is
just on-site or including local suppliers. The new
premises should boost the Welsh engineering
sector, which recently secured a larger deal to
bring production of Aston Martins DBX crossover
to a former air base in St Athan, Glamorgan.
GREEN LIGHT
Official sketch
shows new V8powered TVR set
to be produced at
Ebbw Vale facility
NISSAN has announced a 22million investment

into its Sunderland plant, adding extra capacity
to produce the Qashqai its best-selling model.
Demand is currently outstripping supply,
even though over 300,000 cars roll off the
line every year thats one every minute.
About 1,200 Qashqais are built every day.
Modifying Line 2 at the Sunderland plant
which produces the Juke, Note and Infiniti
Q30 will also allow Nissan to build the nextgeneration Juke crossover there in the future.
30 March 2016 17
News
Renault Mgane RS
4WD, 300bhp-plus Mga

Exclusive image shows Focus RS rival as insider reveals details
Sam Naylor
S
Sam_Naylor@dennis.co.uk
Sam
@SamNaylor_AE
DEVELOPMENT is well underway on

the next hot Renault Mgane RS, and
to help it keep pace with the 345bhp Ford
Focus RS, it could get four-wheel drive,
rear-wheel steering and over 300bhp,
Auto Express can exclusively reveal.
A Renaultsport insider, who is part of
the new project, told us the brand is working
tirelessly on the new Mgane RS, and our
exclusive image shows how it could look.
When you have torque vectoring, rearwheel steering and four-wheel drive, and
you want the car to behave in a certain way,
you have to have a global chassis control
system, they said. When you see cars like
the Focus RS, you can feel that Renaultsport
will have to do something about it.
The brand has been keeping close tabs
on the new Focus RS as it develops the
next hot Mgane, likely to appear in 2018.
It will be a five-door only, as the coup
bodystyle wont be offered on the new
Mgane, and will cost around 30,000.
As our image shows, the RS will keep the
Mganes trademark design cues, although
it will be set apart by beefier wheelarches,
reshaped bumpers and larger alloys.
If it is to compete with the Ford, the
Mgane will need a power boost over the
current cars 271bhp expect in excess of
300bhp from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo.
Renaultsport boss Patrice Ratti also told
us that the RS will probably get a manual
gearbox, as well as the EDC dual-clutch
automatic option from the Clio RS.
The EDC gearbox offers the car up to
new markets, like Japan and Australia, but
we would prefer to be able to offer

the choice of a manual, said Ratti.
The warm Mgane GT was developed
jointly by Renaultsport, and features a
rear-wheel steering system thats likely
to make its way on to the full-fat RS model,
too. This set-up improves mobility at low
speed but also stability at higher revs.
Development of the new Mgane RS
was started alongside the standard model,
which is something that will happen more
often. Our source told us: Renault is saying
that Renaultsport is something special and
it should work on more cars. At the moment,
we have the RS, Alpine and Clio to work on.
That also includes hybrids, as Renault
starts to develop more electric models. Its
only the beginning, but we are looking at
a hybrid project, our insider continued.
As Renault is keen to look at it, of course
we will have to be involved as well.
We are trying to be involved in big
decisions, including the architecture, and
how batteries will be put in the cars. If we
have four-wheel-drive systems, we
need to look at how to get
more performance to
make them fun
to drive.
HOT STUFF
Our exclusive
image shows
how new RS is
set to be a fivedoor only, unlike
current model
(below), with
big alloys
and wide
wheelarches
BMW to push upmarket with X7 SUV

BMW will pitch its forthcoming X7 SUV as a
luxury stablemate to the 7 Series, placed
alongside or even slightly above the
saloon, with the same level of customisation.
The brands sales and marketing chief
Ian Robertson revealed that the car
teased at BMWs recent management
conference and revealed in our exclusive
image is well into the development
phases, although its not due until 2018.
The X7 looks great, he said. It bears
very little resemblance to an X5; it doesnt
just look like weve extended the wheelbase,
and thats very much on purpose. We want
this car to have its own unique identity.
We will make a higher luxury version
of it as well, in the same way we bring
in Individual spec to the 7 Series.
The X7 is expected to sit on a modified
version of the platform underpinning the
18 30 March 2016
new 7 Series (tested on Page 40), and

use some of the luxury cars carbon fibre
construction techniques. The SUV will be
sold globally, including the UK, and the
range will include six-cylinder diesels, a
plug-in hybrid and a high-performance
xDrive M60i, with the same tuned V12
petrol engine as the newly launched M760Li.
Seven seats are likely to be offered, but
Robertson hinted that they may not be
the cars standard layout. We havent
announced the seating configuration yet,
BMW could offer the X7

as a five-seater, with an
exclusive four-seat cabin
or seven-seater available
but we do have a seven-seat X5, he said.

Further up the spectrum, those flexible
offerings are less required. But for some
people, the X7 could be a car for all seasons.
Its possible that BMW could offer the X7
as a conventional five-seater, with a more
exclusive four-seat cabin and a more
practical seven-seat layout as options.
Robertson also revealed that the SUV
will not be the only addition to the higher
end of BMWs range; since the X6 is seen
as the coup version of the X5, there could
be scope for a more style-focused X8.
We are definitely going to bring more
models into the big car segment; we
havent revealed what they are yet, but
several of them could come in the relatively
short to mid-term. Theyre underway
already, Robertson told Auto Express.
PAGE 28: Plug-in hybrid X5 driven
Our exclusive image shows X7s sharp new
Renault Mgane RS
ane RS shapes up
EXCLUSIVE IMAGE
News
news
inbrief
To rival the Focus RS, Mgane

will need a power boost over
the current cars 271bhp
Log on to pick look,

spec of first Ateca
SEAT has launched a crowd-sourcing
competition to help decide the look of
the First Edition of the Ateca SUV.
The design and spec of the special
model will be chosen by the public on
the SEAT website, with 192 potential
outcomes to seven questions that will
shape the Ateca (above). The UK-only
model will go on sale with the rest of the
range in May, and respondents can win
a 3,000 holiday to Barcelona for four.
Order books open

for Tesla Model 3
Milos Dvorak
Automedia
EXCLUSIVE IMAGE
SPIED
And new 3 GT is go
Christian Schulte
look; BMW boss Robertson says it doesnt just look like an extended X5
AS well as big cars like the X7 (left), BMW has

plans for its core models. The 3 Series saloon was
updated last year, but this spy shot shows the
brand is set to update the practical GT, too, with
larger intakes and new LED daytime running lamps.
At the back, there will be new lights and twin
tailpipes, a new iDrive system will feature inside
and engines will be carried over from the saloon.
Prices arent likely to change drastically, so
expect the new 3 Series GT to start at around
30,000 when its launched later this year.
TESLA has begun taking orders for its

new Model 3 electric saloon. Prospective
buyers will have to put down a 1,000
deposit to secure a place on the waiting
list, but deliveries are said to be at least
18 months away for UK buyers.
Those who place their order in Tesla
stores around the country will be further
up the queue than those who do it online.
The reveal of the BMW 3 Series-sized EV
will be broadcast online on 31 March. Its
expected to be priced just over 30,000.
Hyundai sets fuelcell distance record

HYUNDAI has set a new world record
for the longest continuous journey of a
hydrogen fuel-cell. An ix35 Fuel Cell SUV
(below) travelled 6,096 miles in six days
by circling the M25 around London.
A number of drivers took consecutive
shifts in the zero emissions car, with
only five-minute stops allowed to refuel.
The ix35 also set a record for the longest
journey on one tank of hydrogen at
400 miles. Around 250 examples of the
fuel-cell SUV are in use around Europe.
30 March 2016 19
News
Nissan EV boom
Nissan plans electric sport

Boss confirms expansion plans beyond Leaf within five years
Jonathan Burn
Jonathan_Burn@dennis.co.uk
@Jonathan_burn
NISSANS electric car range could

expand to include a new crossover
and sports car within the next five years,
Auto Express can exclusively reveal.
Senior vice-president Shiro Nakamura
has told us that a new modular platform
currently under development will be able
to adopt conventional and alternative
powertrains and that this will be key to
Nissans plan to broaden its EV line-up.
We dont want to limit our EVs just
to the Leaf, Nakamura told Auto Express.
Were the leading EV manufacturer, but
I dont think we can make it just off one EV,
so we want to grow the portfolio thats
our next plan. It could be a crossover, it
could be a sports car; we see much more
opportunity for EVs than just a hatchback.
Nissans interest in introducing an allelectric sports car extends back to the
2011 Geneva Motor Show, when the
maker revealed the Esflow concept
(right). The rear-wheel-drive electric car
produced a modest 107bhp, but could
get from 0-62mph in five seconds.
While little has come of the Esflow
since its debut, Nakamura insists that
the idea of an all-electric sports car hasnt
been shelved. An alternatively fuelled
crossover, though, appears to be at the
forefront of Nissans future product
plans as previewed by the hybrid Gripz
concept at last years Frankfurt Motor Show.
There are ongoing discussions within
Nissan regarding the design and layout of
the new modular platform thatll underpin
the new models. The Leafs batteries are
currently housed under the floor, which

is good for weight distribution but raises the
floor level not something you want in an
electric sports car, according to Nakamura.
For a crossover, we dont care about floor
height because the model already has a high
ground clearance, [but] a sports car you
have to make as low as possible, he said.
Engineers have been experimenting
with placing the batteries under the rear
seats and even running them down the
transmission tunnel to minimise the
amount by which the floor would need
to be raised. Nakamura said the research
is part of the study were doing.
Nissan also sees the modular platforms
development as a way of helping reduce the
cost of EV tech, rather than creating several
bespoke architectures for the various
powertrain options the company offers.
Nakamura explained that it would be
maybe five years before were likely
to see the first production model spun
from the new platform. Nissan is likely
to preview any production vehicle with
a concept car ahead of that, however.
EXCLUSIVE
EV BOOM
Esflow hinted
at electric sports
car at Geneva in
2011; Gripz (below)
shows look of new
EV-based crossover
Ultimate E-Class hits the road with 550bhp
20 30 March 2016
around 600bhp. To help contain all this,

expect the E 63 to get a rear-biased fourwheel-drive system sending power through
a seven-speed automatic gearbox. Rearwheel drive could also be an option.
There will also be changes to the
suspension, which will be lowered and
stiffened to boost agility, while larger
alloy wheels will hide beefier brakes.
Take a closer look at our spy shots
and you can pick out some further visual
tweaks. The vents on the front bumper are
wider and deeper, allowing the engine to
breathe more freely, while at the rear, four
tailpipes hint at the performance on offer.
The E 63 will also be unique in coming as
a saloon and estate; the Audi RS6 is offered
as an Avant only, while the M5 is sold as a
saloon exclusively. Prices for the Mercedes
should start from around 85,000.
SPIED
Automedia
MERCEDES-AMG is adding the finishing

touches to its new E 63. New spy shots
show both saloon and estate test mules
undergoing final shakedown ahead of
their arrival towards the end of the year.
Engineers have already had their hands
on the E-Class, but the half-fat 394bhp E 43
was only ever intended to bridge the gap
between the standard saloon and this fullblooded BMW M5 rival. There were never
any plans to axe the range-topping model.
Whereas the E 43 features a 394bhp
3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, the E 63 is likely
to switch to the larger and more powerful
4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 from the AMG GT S.
That engine currently produces 503bhp,
but this is likely to be cranked up to around
550bhp to keep pace with the 552bhp M5.
However, Mercedes-AMG could also
introduce an even faster S version, with
WHITE HOT
Spies caught the

new E 63 saloon
and estate on
test; theyre set
to get twin-turbo
V8 from AMG GT
Nissan
an EV boom
ts car and crossover
News
e s
James
Batchelor
James_Batchelor@dennis.co.u
James_Batchelor@dennis.co.uk
o.uk
@JRRBatchelor
@JRRBatch
tchelo
elor
Videowatch
WE drive Rolls-Royces Dawn
at youtube.com/Autoexpress
this week, plus have a video on
the new Jaguar F-Type SVR.
New Rolls-Royce
Dawn raises roof
New modular
platform will be key
to Nissans plans to
broaden its EV line-up
QUICK FIX
Repairing all
potholes in the
UK in one go
is estimated to
cost 11.8billion
800m pothole crisis

COUNCILS in England and Wales face a
near-800million shortfall in road repair
budgets, as they struggle to tackle a
pothole repairs backlog, according to a
report from the Asphalt Industry Alliance.
Despite fixing a pothole every 15
seconds last year, councils are 14 years
behind on road repairs, and mending all
holes in one go is estimated to cost
taxpayers 11.8billion. These numbers
are likely to increase, too, as the total
shortfall in the annual carriageway
maintenance budget of 791million in
2015 is up 240million from the previous
year. Each council now faces an average
one-time cost of 69million to bring

roads up to a reasonable standard.
Last year, the Government announced a
250million pothole fund to help councils
repair the UKs roads, but more needs to
be done according to councillor Peter Box,
a transport spokesman at the Local
Government Association: It is becoming
increasingly urgent to address the roads
crisis we face as a nation, he said.
Our roads are deteriorating fast and
it would take almost 12billion and be
close to 2030 before theyre up to scratch.
This crisis is only going to get worse
unless we address it as a national policy.
Shortfall in the annual carriageway maintenance budget

of 791million in 2015 is up 240million from 2014
WITH Rolls-Royce revealing that the

massive Phantom Drophead wont
be replaced, fans of large, expensive
convertibles might want to look
elsewhere for their open-air thrills.
To prevent that, Rolls has chopped
the top off its Wraith to produce the
stunning new Dawn. But as our first
drive video reveals, its more than
just a case of slicing the roof off. Is
this the best posh cabrio around?
Hear Jaguar F-Type

SVR in all its glory
YOU can read all about how we had

a blast in Jaguars stunning 567bhp
F-Type SVR through one of New Yorks
most famous tunnels on Page 10.
But unless you hear the rasp of
the exhaust, youre missing out
and to do that, youll have to watch
the video on our YouTube channel.
You can watch
any of our videos
on your phone
Simply scan
this QR code.
30 March 2016 21
Watchdog
We get behind the stories that affect you
Joe
Finnerty
Drivers needs to take a
more responsible attitude
to the rules of the road
Charles Hepburn was left frustrated

when hi-tech kit on 2008 wouldnt work
Peugeot takes wrong

turn over faulty sat-nav
CASE STUDY Auto Express to the rescue after reader left confused as USB key fails to register on 2008
Martin Saarinen
OPTIONAL extras are a great way for

owners to spec a car to their individual
needs, but they often dont come cheap.
So, when youre splashing out hundreds on
the latest tech, the least you expect is for it
to work. Charles Hepburn, from Maryburgh
in the Scottish Highlands, encountered
issues when he couldnt get the sat-nav
working on his new Peugeot 2008.
When I bought the car, I paid an
extra 300 for a USB key that houses
3G connectivity, a GPS receiver and builtin apps to connect it with. But when I
plugged in the USB, nothing happened.
The car didnt register the device, he said.
Charles consulted his local dealer,
Kens Garage in Kildary, Eastern Ross,
for advice. Although staff there were
very helpful, they couldnt get the
device working either, he explained.
Disappointed to be driving a car that
was lacking the options he paid for, Charles
called Peugeot customer services for
help. Initially he seemed to make headway,
but he soon hit a wall: I ended up being
passed from department to department,
and no one seemed to have an answer as to
why the USB key wasnt connecting with the
car. I wasnt happy with the service I was
receiving. With Peugeot customer services
22 30 March 2016
KEY POINT
USB key did not

register initially,
meaning 2008s
sat-nav would
not function as
was intended
With Peugeot customer

services not providing the
advice Charles was after,
he turned to us for help
not providing the advice Charles was after,
he turned to Auto Express for help. We
called Peugeot to investigate, and shortly
after Charles told us he was being sent a
new USB. Unfortunately, this second
USB also failed to install the apps and
sat-nav on his car, so we went back to
Peugeot. As a result, Charles was told that

a software download for the account had
been activated by Peugeot and the key
was due to be synchronised with the car.
A Peugeot spokeswoman told us:
Unfortunately, the incorrect USB key was
ordered in error, which is why the dealer
was unable to register the key. This has now
been rectified and the new key successfully
registered, with Peugeot covering the cost
to the customer. We apologise for any
inconvenience caused to Mr Hepburn.
A relieved Charles told us: I have no
doubt your intervention was instrumental
in resolving this issue. Thank you.
LATEST gures from the insurer

Direct Line show 28 million
xed penalty notices (FPN) have
been issued to drivers for motoring
offences between 2002 and 2012.
Of those, 5.6 million were for
parking offences, two million for not
wearing a seatbelt and one million for
using a mobile. By far and away the
biggest offence was speeding, though,
with more than 15.2 million FPNs
issued for this over the decade.
These are remarkably high gures,
and show the disregard so many
motorists have for the laws of the
road. Sure, we might disagree with
some rules such as unfair parking
restrictions or low speed limits
on large, open roads, but the
laws must be abided by and are
normally in place for a good reason.
Consider this: youre walking down
the street, and somebody asks you to
slap a passer-by in the face or light up
a cigarette in a shop. Would you do
either? Probably not, because you
know youd face repercussions. Yet in
a car, people will happily do 40mph in
a 30mph zone or ignore trafc lights.
Many see these offences as
victimless crimes, but speeding
or using a mobile phone hugely
increases your chance of causing
an accident and hurting yourself,
other road users and pedestrians.
Suffolk, Merseyside and South Wales
see the highest number of offenders,
but its a problem across England
and Wales (the gures dont include
Scotland, but its likely the same story
there, too). To stop this, we need a step
change in attitudes to motoring laws.
Theyre not merely irritants conceived
to stop us enjoying driving theyre
designed to keep you and others safe.
Joe_Finnerty@dennis.co.uk
@AE_Consumer
Speeding or using a
mobile phone hugely
increase your chance
of causing an accident
Inbox
More young drivers

are fitting black boxes
What do you think?
Contact Martin Saarinen
HOT TOPIC New Evoque cabrio
Drivers welcome big

brother into their cars
FROM: DSmalls A LOT of money for a car

with no more space and a smaller
boot than a supermini. Its not like
its a performance car, either. So
youre spending 50,000 to impress
the neighbours? Still, you just know
people will buy the Evoque Convertible.
FROM: chris_xxxx LAND Rover will

sell this model by the thousands in
Southern California, Florida and Asia,
supporting UK jobs and helping to fund
new products. The Evoque Convertible
might not be everyones cup of tea,
but variety is good for the car business.
TALKING
POINT
Readers are
divided over
controversial
new Evoque
Convertible
More motorists opting to fit telematics to reduce premiums

Martin Saarinen
THE number of motorists

buying insurance policies with a
telematics device to monitor their
driving has risen by 40 per cent
over the past year. According
to a new study by the British
Insurance Brokers Association
(BIBA), there are now nearly half
a million drivers in the UK with
a black box fitted up 132,000
from the end of 2014.
The tech is an increasingly
popular choice for young drivers,
with many receiving discounts
of up to 25 per cent on their
premiums. As a result, the number
of black box policies in the UK
has soared from only 12,000 in
2009 to 455,000 today. Industry
stats also show that drivers with a
black box fitted are 40 per cent
less likely to have an accident.
The tech is installed by insurers
and monitors a number of driving
inputs, from acceleration to
cornering. It builds a risk profile
based on the findings. The safest
and most compliant drivers then
receive discounts on their policy.
Graeme Trudgill, executive
director at BIBA, said: Were
delighted to see these figures
increasing. The benefits of a greater
take-up of telematics tech are
many: more affordable premiums,
safer roads, reduced uninsured
driving and increased personal
safely, because some even
operate as breakdown locators.
Useful
Contacts
MOTORING
LAWYER
Neil Davies
Senior Partner at
Caddick Davies
(www.motordefencelawyers.co.uk)
Join the debate at www.autoexpress.co.uk

DRIVING along an A-road or motorway
at the national speed limit, only to
be stopped in your tracks by a fellow
motorist cruising along much more
slowly, can be extremely annoying.
But is middle-lane hogging really an
offence? The truth is, theres no such
crime. However, inappropriately driving
in lanes that are intended for overtaking
in the case of a three-lane motorway,
the two outer lanes can amount to an
offence of driving without due care and
attention or without consideration for
other road users. More commonly, this
is known as careless driving, and the
inclusion of lane-hogging under this
banner was introduced in 2013.
If you stick in the two outer lanes
unnecessarily, particularly where you
impede other road users, it can be said
that the standard of your driving has
fallen below whats expected of the
competent and careful motorist.
If youre caught, you may find yourself
being offered a Driver Improvement
Course, a Fixed Penalty Notice of 100
and three points, or even prosecution
before the Magistrates Court with a
maximum penalty of 5,000 and the
possibility of three to nine points.
And many drivers will say rightly so!
THE following provide help

with motoring problems.
Some services are free,
others charge a fee or
operate on premium-rate
lines (p), while some offer
advice for members only (m).
Legal
AA: 0906 010 1300 (p)
RAC: 0870 5533 533 (m)
Which?: 01992 822 800
Consumer Direct:
0845 404 0506
Local Trading Standards
Local Citizens Advice Bureau
What a pointless vehicle.

Ugly, slow and limited load
capacity. If JLR sells half a
dozen of these, it should
be happy. Ron Gambol
Not a fan. I need a car

with seven seats. Im sure
if Land Rover really tried,
it could have fitted seven
passengers in. Jayne
I rather like the look of

it. Sure it has its downfalls,
but its a sign of things to
come which makes it
kind of cool. Wiley
Renault and Astons

missteps at Geneva
Why hospital parking

fees require treatment
FROM: Alan Mansfield A couple of things

struck me about the Geneva Motor Show.
It seems Renaults in the game of making
its badge ever larger a shame, as it
detracts from otherwise beautiful lines.
Second, the wheels on the DB11 are
woefully out of character for an Aston.
FROM: Ron Walker I READ your article on

hospital parking charges (Issue 1,412).
A few years ago I had to visit the hospital
a lot, and paid for hourly parking with a
two-hour maximum. I wouldve been more
grateful for a reduced weekly charge,
instead of frequent visits to the car park.
XEs marred by rough

ride and noisy diesel
Number plate sellers

need more regulation
FROM: J.S Wignall I READ with interest your

latest fleet report on the Jaguar XE (Issue
1,411). I also drive an XE, and Ive
noticed some of the same shortfalls.
The ride quality on anything but the
smoothest roads is very rough, even
on 17-inch wheels, and I agree that the
diesel sounds loud under acceleration.
FROM: Nick White One of the main

reasons its easy to clone a car (Issue
1,412) is that theres no regulation
or enforcement on companies that
sell licence plates to people without
checking whether or not theyre entitled
to buy them. This is something the
Government needs to look into.
Used car inspections

AA: 0800 085 3007
RAC: 0800 085 2529
Technical advice
AA: 0870 606 1619 (m)
Driving licences
DVLA: 0300 790 6801
Car registration/history
HPI: 01722 422422
AA: 0800 316 3564
DVLA: 0300 790 6802
RAC: 0800 975 5867
Traffic information
AA: 09003 401100 (p)
RAC: 09003 444999 (p)
Problems with dealers

Motor Codes:
0800 692 0825
Consumer Ombudsman:
www.consumerombudsman.org
RMIF: 0845 839 9205 (m)
Scottish Motor Trade
Association: 0131 331 5510
Problems with makers

Motor Codes: 0800 692 0825
Financial problems
Financial Ombudsman:
0800 023 4567
Safety concerns/recalls
DVSA: 0300 123 9000
30 March 2016 23
Insidestory
Tackling the motoring issues that matter
Austin/Morris 1100 was the

UKs top-selling car in 1965
CHART
of the past 50 y
We follow the trends in the UKs new car market

by revealing the top 10 sellers over five decades
Matt Gasnier
LAST year saw a major shift in the

UK car industry, with record sales and
a growing number of manufacturers
producing vehicles on these shores.
But despite the ever-changing
landscape, the names at the top of
the best sellers list remain fairly static.
The Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus and Vauxhall
Corsa continue to find homes faster than
any other models. That wasnt always
the case, though, and a look back

through the history books flags
up some great recovery stories, as
well as some fallen heroes once
great names in the business now
consigned to the scrapyard.
With the help of BestSellingCarsBlog,
Auto Express has tracked the past 50
years, taking snapshots of annual UK
new car sales every decade to chronicle
a period of enormous change.
BestSellingCarsBlog.com is the most exhaustive site covering

new car sales data, trends and analysis for over 190 markets,
from Algeria to Zimbabwe. It has a searchable database going
back 50 to 100 years for markets like the UK, Germany and US.
1965 1975
Cortina came second in first year registrations were published, ahead of Mini (below)
1965 QUEEN Elizabeth II courted controversy

in 1965 by appointing all four Beatles to the
Order of the British Empire an honour
traditionally reserved for military veterans.
This was also the first year that official car
registrations figures were unveiled, and they
showed just over one million new cars found
homes that year. The sixties were the most
successful decade for the 1959 Mini (below),
but surprisingly, it never topped the annual
sales charts at home, ranking third in 1965.
Instead, the Austin/Morris 1100 was
the favourite, with a 14.3 per cent market
share a ratio that would be almost
impossible to reach today. The Ford
Cortina trumped its Mini rival in
1965 to rank in second place in
the overall chart for the year.
Below it was the Ford Anglia,
production of which would end
two years later. Vauxhall was
also present in the table, but
with a name that went on to be
discontinued in 1976: the Victor.
Unlike today, there were
no foreign models in the top
10, as imports accounted for
only five per cent of sales.
24 30 March 2016
sales
1965 chart
Pos.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Model
Austin/Morris 1100
Ford Cortina
Austin/Morris Mini
Ford Anglia
Vauxhall Victor
Vauxhall Viva
BMC 1.6 Farina
Ford Corsair
Morris Minor
Ford Mark IV
Sales
157,679
116,637
104,477
84,589
69,854
58,884
52,503
44,943
44,905
43,204
Datsun Sunny was

just outside top 10, as
sales of imports rose
1975 FAST forward 10 years,
and Margaret Thatcher became the

Conservative Partys first female leader,
the first episode of Fawlty Towers hit our
televisions and David Bowie topped
the music charts with Space Oddity.
Our car market suffered from the
recession that was engulfing the country:
sales were down 24 per cent in 1974 and
another six in 1975 to 1.194 million.
Since 1972 when the Ford Cortina took
the lead of the UK ranking, a Ford has
been the number one car in the country
every single year. The Cortina managed to
stay on top in 1975 despite the progress
of the more recent Ford Escort.
The Morris Marina and Austin Allegro
(right) posted very strong sales, as did the
Hillman Hunter, in 10th. Imports shot up
to one-third of the market in 1975, with
the Datsun Sunny just short of the top 10.
sales
1975 chart
Pos.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Model
Ford Cortina
Ford Escort
BMC Mini
Morris Marina
Austin Allegro
Vauxhall Viva
Hillman Avenger
Triumph Dolomite
Leyland Princess
Hillman Hunter
Sales
106,787
103,817
84,688
78,632
63,339
54,731
38,377
30,199
29,067
28,966
Top sellers
Inside story
HITS
ears
Since the Cortina

took the lead in 1972,
a Ford has been number
one every single year
1985
1995
Even cabrio boosted
Escort Mk3 sales
1985 THE Cold War was thawing in 1985, and
PM Margaret Thatcher was in her second term.

In response to the Heysel Stadium tragedy in
Belgium, all English football clubs were banned
from European competition for five years.
Over 157,000 Ford Escorts found homes in
the UK in 1985, making it the best seller ahead
of the Vauxhall Cavalier. The saloon version,
badged Orion, sold another 65,000 units. The
Ford Fiesta ranked third overall in 1985; it
would have to wait until 1990 to hit top spot.
It competed with the 1980 Austin Metro,
notably made famous by Lady Diana. Also sold
as an MG, the Metro had no brand for a few
years when Austin was shelved in 1987. It
became a Rover in 1990, reflecting the tough
times facing British car makers. But the bigger
Maestro (right) also registered in the chart.
In October 1985 local production of the
Peugeot 309 began, making it the first of
many foreign cars to be built in the UK.
sales
1985 chart
Pos.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Model
Ford Escort
Vauxhall Cavalier
Ford Fiesta
Austin/MG Metro
Ford Sierra
Vauxhall Astra
Austin/MG Montego
Ford Orion
Vauxhall Nova
Austin/MG Maestro
Mk6 model flew flag for

Escort in late nineties
1995 ONLY one per cent of the UK population

Sales
157,269
134,335
124,143
118,817
101,642
76,553
73,955
65,363
61,358
57,527
had Internet access in 1995 unthinkable

21 years on. Oasis and Blur were popular and
the Spice Girls were less than a year away.
The year marked the last sales chart victory
for the Ford Escort after a record 12 years as
number one. The nameplate was axed in 1998
to make way for the Focus, but would end up
being reinstated in China over 15 years later.
Ford monopolised the podium with the
Fiesta in second and then the Mondeo, which
replaced the Sierra in 1993. Vauxhall held the
next three spots. Rovers 200 (right) and 100
came seventh and 10th respectively, but the
brand bowed out from the top 10 in 1998.
Foreign nameplates reappeared among the
10 best sellers: the locally produced Peugeot
306 sold 56,112 units then an all-time
volume record for a foreign car in the UK. The
nineties was when Korean manufacturers
arrived, led by Kia, Hyundai and Daewoo.
sales
1995 chart
Pos.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Model
Ford Escort
Ford Fiesta
Ford Mondeo
Vauxhall Astra
Vauxhall Cavalier
Vauxhall Corsa
Rover 200
Peugeot 306
Renault Clio
Rover 100
Sales
137,760
129,574
118,040
100,709
73,978
72,502
68,141
56,112
52,576
52,392
30 March 2016 25
33
ASTRA ESTATE
Whisper diesel engine

gives Vauxhalls Sports
Tourer even more appeal.
34
NEED
TO KNOW
The X5 hybrid
falls outside the
Governments
sub-75g/km
CO2 emissions
threshold for the
plug-in car grant
VIVA ECOFLEX
City car is latest model

to get green treatment
on new ecoFLEX model.
36
E-CLASS V6 DIESEL
Mercedes 254bhp
E 350d is a compelling
choice, but expensive.
38
SKODA FABIA
New Colour Edition

gives supermini an
added touch of flair.
Essentials
BMW X5 xDrive40e
M Sport
Price: 56,705
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl petrol,
plus electric motor
Power/torque: 309bhp/450Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed auto,
four-wheel drive
0-62/top spd: 6.8 secs/130mph
Economy: 83.1mpg
CO2: 78g/km
ON SALE Now
PRACTICALITY Theres no sevenseat option, but the rear offers plenty

of room for three adults. Boot space
is reduced by the chunky batteries,
shrinking from 650 to 500 litres
EQUIPMENT Plug-in socket for
charging is located behind the front

left wheel, while inside youll find satnav, DAB radio and BMWs innovative
Emergency Call fitted as standard
Caption to go in
space here please
Caption to go in
space here please
Cabin is typical X5, with high-quality finish and iDrive-controlled screen dominating dash. But box struggles to select right gear
Ride is firmer than diesels; off-road use

affects battery range; split tailgate handy
settings, which alter the throttle

response, damper and steering set-ups.
Instant torque from the electric motor
ensures swift progress off the line, but
things feel strained when the engine kicks
in leaving you longing for the grunt from
BMWs brilliant six-cylinder diesel. The box
isnt always sure which gear to select,
either, and the steering doesnt feel as
direct as it does in the smaller yet similarly
powered 330e saloon. The ride isnt as
compliant as the well damped X5 diesels;
it feels firmer around town and therefore
more susceptible to large potholes.
And thats this cars biggest problem. As
a standalone SUV, the xDrive40e is very well
mannered, but when you know how good
the X5 can be, it leaves you wanting. Still,
the ability to travel through the city in
complete silence is hugely appealing, and
the rock-bottom Benefit in Kind tax band
will swing it for many company car drivers.
However, in reality, if your daily commute
involves regular motorway jaunts, the diesel

is more suitable. Its smooth, fast and easier
to live with, while the progressive power
delivery is more predictable the plug-ins
indecision over whether to use petrol,
electric or both can make for jolting progress.
You cant fault the refinement, though,
with wind noise well suppressed and only
a small amount of road noise from the tyres.
Of course, both the PHEV and the diesel
come well equipped. The 56,705 list price
makes the X5 xDrive40e M Sport 2,445
more expensive than the equivalent 3.0-litre
diesel, and it only matches it for kit.
However, while you get full-leather,
19-inch wheels and Professional Nav on
both the 40e and 30d, if you opt for the
hybrid, youll have to make do with five
seats rather than seven. Due to the bulky
batteries, BMWs engineers have had to
forgo the additional boot-mounted seats,
which has seen the available load area
shrink from 650 litres to just 500 litres.
Verdict
IN some respects, the X5
xDrive40e offers the best of
both worlds, but in others its
fundamentally flawed. For most,
the cheaper diesel will prove a
more logical proposition, with
its smooth power delivery and
admirable economy. The X5
PHEV does offer company car
drivers rock-bottom tax bills, but
private buyers will be better off
in Volvos XC90 T8 Twin Engine.
30 March 2016 29
Newcars
Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion
Essentials
VW Passat BlueMotion
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
23,530
1.6-litre 4cyl diesel
118bhp/250Nm
Six-speed manual,
front-wheel drive
10.8 seconds
130mph
76.3mpg
95g/km
ON SALE Now
NEED TO KNOW
Passat BlueMotion
costs 1,275 more
to buy than the
mechanically identical
Skoda Superb 1.6
TDI GreenLine
PRACTICALITY The BlueMotion tweaks

dont affect interior space, meaning four
tall adults can travel in comfort. The
saloons 586-litre boot is big, too, although
the Skoda Superb trumps it for outright
capacity and limousine-like legroom
EQUIPMENT While BlueMotion is
Passat BlueMotion is composed and smooth in corners, and theres very little body roll
Lawrence Allan
La
Lawr
@LobAllan
VOLKSWAGEN may be promising a raft

of fancy new hybrid and electric models
in the future, but diesels remain big business
despite the recent Dieselgate scandal. The
brand offers petrol versions of the fuelsipping Polo (tested on Page 50) and Golf,
yet the Passat BlueMotion is diesel-only
and weve driven it in the UK for the first time.
While youll see BlueMotion badges
on many of VWs diesels signifying the
use of high-efficiency tech this model
has the full range of eco tweaks. From the
outside, youll spot a blanked-off front grille
and revised rear bumper, as well as a more
aerodynamic 17-inch alloy wheel design. The
car rides 15mm lower on sports suspension
to reduce drag, while shutters in front of
the radiator direct air around the nose.
The effect on the exterior design is subtle,
so the Passat is still a classy-looking family
30 30 March 2016
saloon. But the impact on efficiency is far

greater, with VW claiming an economy jump
from 70.6mpg on the regular 1.6-litre TDI to
76.3mpg on this model. CO2 emissions fall
from 105g/km to 95g/km, too. Thats a big
improvement, but its worth remembering
the BlueMotion costs 880 more to buy
than the S version on which its based.
Company car buyers do profit, however,
as the Benefit in Kind tax rate falls from
19 to 17 per cent and road tax is free as
a result. Its just a shame that the Passat
cant quite pip the Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi
ECOnetics figures of 78.5mpg and
94g/km. Still, after a mixture of town
and motorway driving, we were easily
able to nudge 60mpg on our test.
Fortunately, theres no evidence of the
Passats efficiency drive inside. Its as solid
and upmarket as ever, with classy chrome
trim and quality to match cars from the class
above. The layout is sensible yet stylish,
with easy-to-use buttons and an intuitive
badged as its own spec, its based on the

entry-level S. It gets a 6.5-inch touchscreen,
collision assist and DAB radio, but sat-nav
is a 675 option. Aero tweaks include
unique bumpers and lowered suspension
touchscreen. Its a shame the 6.5-inch

displays graphics are a little basic,
while sat-nav is part of a 675 option
pack that brings VWs Guide and Inform
online traffic and news service.
An eight-inch touchscreen is also on the
options list, which looks more in keeping
with the Passats premium feel. Space is
excellent, though, with plenty of head and
legroom for four adults and a well shaped
586-litre boot. The Skoda Superb is roomier
still, however, and given its cheaper to
buy, it could be a better choice for some.
Buyers will be happy to learn that theres
no performance penalty in opting for the
BlueMotion model. In fact, the top speed
increases by 1mph to 130mph thanks to
the better high-speed aero. The 118bhp
1.6 TDI is reasonably flexible, and is happy
being revved to get the best out of it. Even
so, despite the slick six-speed manual shift,
it isnt the quietest unit when stretched, and
can sound strained. Keen drivers will lust
Volksw
FFIRST
IRST DRIVE LLatest
t t
Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion
Newcars
Passat is impressively refined at
speed, with wind and road noise
well isolated from the cabin
wagenPassatBlueMotion
eco ffamily
ill saloon
l
promises
i 76
76mpg, b
butt d
does it d
demand
d any compromises?
i ?
after the more urgent 2.0 TDI. That engine

also claims a respectable 68.9mpg.
The BlueMotion retains the regular cars
unflustered composure in corners, aided by
the sports suspension, which reduces body
roll. Its not particularly fun, although it feels
more agile than the Mondeo. Wind and
road noise are kept to a minimum, but the
1.6-litre diesels note is more noticeable.
However, the VWs suspension is
affected by the BlueMotion tweaks, and
while its far from uncomfortable and less
of a problem the faster you go, it takes on a
slightly firmer edge around town picking
out bumps and potholes in the road.
The Passat is designed to spend most
of its life pounding motorways rather than
crawling through town centres, but its the
only real compromise BlueMotion spec
demands over the standard model.
Logically laid-out interior has upmarket

feel, with chrome trim lining the dash
Verdict
COMPANY car drivers will flock
to the Passat BlueMotion, and for
good reason. Its extremely efficient,
doesnt demand any performance
compromise and looks just as
smart as the standard car. For
some, the 880 premium this
super-efficient model commands
will be better spent upgrading the
regular car to SE spec. The Passat
BlueMotion is a great family car, but
the Skoda Superb is bigger, better
value and almost as good to drive.
30 March 2016
EMOTIONS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
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MORE INFO WWW.PIONEER-CAR.CO.UK
Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer
VauxhallAstraSTCDTi
Newcars
Essentials
Vauxhall Astra Sports
Tourer SRi Nav 1.6 CDTi
FIRST UK DRIVE Whisper diesel is a good t for classy new estate
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
Sports Tourer handles well,

with direct steering
and plenty of grip
0-60mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
22,770
1.6-litre 4cyl diesel
134bhp/320Nm
Six-speed manual,
front-wheel drive
9.5 seconds
127mph
72.4mpg
104g/km
ON SALE Now
EQUIPMENT SRi spec comes well
equipped, while Nav trim adds the eightinch IntelliLink touchscreen sat-nav with
additional smartphone connectivity
Nathan Morgan
Lawrence Allan
La
Lawr
@LobAllan
FINISHING third might net you

a medal in the Olympics, but
in the motor industry, that just
isnt good enough. Vauxhalls
outgoing Astra Sports Tourer is
the third most popular mid-size
estate in the UK, behind the loadlugging Ford Focus and Volkswagen
Golf. So for the all-new model, the
brand has pulled out all the stops.
Weve already tested the Sports Tourer
with the 1.0-litre turbo engine (Issue 1,413),
but as fleet buyers will make up around 80
per cent of sales in this class, this mid-spec
Whisper diesel should be the big seller.
It delivers 134bhp and 320Nm of torque
considerably more than the equivalent Golf
or Focus yet is just as frugal as its rivals.
The old Astras performance advantage
was hindered by its lardy body, but the
new model is 130kg lighter than before.
The 1.6 feels notably more responsive,
and you could easily mistake it for a larger
2.0-litre. It wont set your world alight, but
what matters is that when the Astra is
loaded up with luggage, it doesnt feel
underpowered. While its not quite as quiet
as Vauxhall would have you believe, the
noise is reduced to a more petrol-like hum.
Like the hatch, the Sports Tourer is up there
with the best in terms of handling. Steering
is direct, body control is good and theres
lots of grip. Brake feel is more progressive
than the hatch but still not perfect, and the
ride on 17-inch alloys is a bit firm. Road noise
isnt as well suppressed as in the Golf, either.
Dont think the Astras diet has meant a
sacrifice in interior space, though. Exterior
REAR SEATS Theres plenty of

head and legroom for back seat
passengers, so carrying five on longer
journeys shouldnt be a problem
CABIN
Interior is full
of high-quality
materials and
technology; car is
130kg lighter than
its predecessor
PRACTICALITY Boot is a lot bigger
than before, offering 540 litres of space

with the rear seats in place. But a Skoda
Octavia Estates capacity is bigger still
Verdict
dimensions are similar to before, although
theres nearly 30mm more legroom in the
back, and the boot (540 litres with the seats
up and 1,630 litres when theyre folded) is
quite a lot roomier than before. Rivals like
the Skoda Octavia and Honda Civic offer
even bigger load areas, but the Astra has
the measure of the Focus Estate. And while
theres no underfloor storage, you do get

a space-saver spare wheel in its place.
The cabin has plenty of tech and highquality materials. The infotainment system
is slick, plus the OnStar concierge service,
sat-nav and Wi-Fi add a layer of polish that
makes the Astra feel bang up to date.
PAGE 34: Vauxhall Viva ecoFLEX driven
Diesel delivers 134bhp and 320Nm more than

the Golf or Focus yet is just as frugal as its rivals
ALTHOUGH the previous Vauxhall

Astra Sports Tourer didnt really
stand out in any one area, the latest
model is right up there with the class
leaders. The 1.6-litre CDTi diesel
is the best compromise between
economy and performance, while
only the slightly firm ride lets down
the driving experience. Some rivals
have bigger boots, but in terms
of passenger space and tech,
the Vauxhall is hard to beat.
30 March 2016 33
Newcars
Vauxhall Viva ecoFLEX

Nathan Morgan
Essentials
Vauxhall Viva SE ecoFLEX
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
8,570
1.0-litre 3cyl petrol
74bhp/95Nm
Five-speed manual,
front-wheel drive
13.1 seconds
106mph
65.7mpg
99g/km
ON SALE Now
HANDLING Like the standard car,

the ecoFLEX Viva is fun to drive, with
light yet direct steering and a compliant
ride. The engine lacks power, though
EFFICIENCY Fuel economy is the

name of the game with ecoFLEX
version of the Viva helped by
aero tweaks like this bootlid spoiler
Lawr
@LobAllan
34 30 March 2016
get front foglights, plus electric front

windows, cruise control and steering
wheel-mounted audio controls
Steering is light and direct,

while Viva is composed
over rough roads
Lawrence Allan
La
AS with Volkswagen and its BlueMotion

models, Vauxhall offers more efficiencybiased ecoFLEX versions of its cars that
boast unique tweaks to boost economy and
lower CO2 emissions. The Viva is the latest
Vauxhall to get the fuel-sipping treatment,
and weve driven it for the first time.
The Viva ecoFLEX has an extended lip
spoiler and a new black roof spoiler to help
channel airflow, plus low-rolling-resistance
tyres. They add 175 to the price of an entrylevel SE-spec model, bringing it to 8,570.
More importantly, the tweaks mean CO2
emissions for the 74bhp 1.0-litre engine fall
from 104g/km to 99g/km, while economy is
bumped up from 62.8mpg to 65.7mpg. That
means road tax is now free, and the Viva
falls into the 14 per cent Benefit in Kind
band for company car drivers. Those figures
compare well with rivals like the Hyundai
i10 BlueDrive, which emits 98g/km
but costs nearly 2,000 more to buy.
There are no changes to the interior, so
you get a sensible yet slightly bland dash,
plus a reasonable amount of kit, including
electric front windows, a thick-rimmed
multifunction steering wheel and cruise
control. If you want Bluetooth or air-con,
youll have to forgo the ecoFLEX tweaks and
opt for higher SL trim. Thats fine at this time
of year, but be sure you wont curse your
penny-pinching decision come the summer.
Practicality is good, with adequate
storage and just enough space in the
back for two tall adults. The 206-litre
ine, but the Suzuki Celerios is
boot is fine,
bigger offering a class-leading 254 litres.
und town, youd be hard pushed to
Around
notice any significant changes over the
rd Viva. The steering feels light
standard
rect, while the ride remains
and direct,
ed over rough surfaces. The
composed
cylinder engine is refined and
three-cylinder
nippy enough at city speeds, too.
blems start to emerge
Problems
ou push harder, though.
when you
er, the Viva is faster
On paper,
than a number of city cars,
ing the Skoda
including
ut in the real
Citigo, but
world, it feels like it
needs thrashing just
p up with traffic.
to keep
Partt of the problem is
that the modest 95Nm of
EQUIPMENT All Viva models
VauxhallVivaecoFLEX
FIRST UK DRIVE City car gets eco tweaks for improved efciency
INTERIOR
Theres no air-con
or Bluetooth on
this SE ecoFLEX
model, but the
dash looks good,
even if material
quality could be
a little better
Verdict
torque doesnt come in u

until higher up
the rev range, meanin
meaning motorway
journeys quickly beco
become a chore.
The other issue concerns road
noise, which isnt particularly well
insulated on the sstandard Viva
and is only made w
worse with
the addition of the e
eco tyres.
THE Viva is a good city car that

doesnt look or feel as cheap as its
price tag might suggest. The ecoFLEX
tweaks also help it compete well with
rivals in terms of fuel economy and
CO2 emissions, with few negatives
aside from the increased tyre noise
and lack of air-con. But the Vauxhall
finds itself in a very competitive
class, with more refined, more
practical and more fun models that
can be found for not much extra.
THE ULTIMATE IN
PERFORMANCE UPGRADES
AT DMS AUTOMOTIVE
WEVE BEEN UNLEASHING
AUTOMOTIVE PERFORMANCE
FOR OVER 19 YEARS
DMS CLS63 AMG (EVO AUGUST 14) ENGINE UPGRADE ADDS HUGE PERFORMANCE AND REAL CHARACTER
DMS 1M (EVO MARCH 12) THERES A REAL RIP TO THE WAY THE REVS PILE ON ABOVE 4000RPM
DMS SL65 BLACK SERIES (EVO OCTOBER 10) IT FEELS LIKE THE LOVE CHILD OF AN SL65 AND A PORSCHE GT2
DMS 135I (BMW CAR MAY 09) THE STANDARD CAR IS GREAT BUT DMS HAVE SOMEHOW MANAGED TO TAKE IT TO THE NEXT LEVEL
DMS 997 TURBO 3.6 (EVO SEPTEMBER 08) ITS EPIC, HILARIOUS AND ADDICTIVE IN EVERY GEAR, YET DOCILE WHEN CRUISING
DMS 997 TURBO 3.8 PDK (EVO JUNE 11) DELIVERY IS ALMOST UNCOMFORTABLY FORCEFUL
BELOW IS A SMALL SELECTION OF

OUR MORE POPULAR MODELS TO
UPGRADE. WE ARE ABLE TO UNLEASH
PERFORMANCE FROM SMALL FOUR
CYCLINDER DIESEL ENGINES UP TO
V12 SUPERCARS.
316D/216D/116D 160 BHP

318D/218D/118D 225 BHP
330D E90 296+ BHP
320D E90 215 BHP
420i/320i/220i/120i 275+ BHP
435i/ F30 335i 390 BHP
428i/328i 295 BHP
535D / 335D / X5 SD 355+ BHP
640D/335D/535D/435D 390 BHP
730D 305+ BHP
X5 4.0D / 740D 370 BHP
X5 3.0D 305 BHP
X6 X5.0I 4.4 500+BHP
X6 M50D/X5M50D/550D 450 BHP
AUDI
AUDI RS6 4.0 T V8 690+BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
AUDI RS6 V10 680+BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
AUDI R8 V10 592+BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
AUDI RS4 B7/ R8 445 BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
AUDI RS3/RSQ3 420+ BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
AUDI S3 / GOLF R 373+ BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
AUDI 3.0TDi (ALL MODELS) 315+ BHP
AUDI 3.0 Bi-TDi (ALL MODELS) 380+ BHP MERCEDES-BENZ
A200CDi/C200CDi/E200CDi 175 BHP
AUDI Q7/A8 4.2 TDi 400+ BHP
A250/C250 260 BHP
A45/CLA45 420 BHP
BMW
C300 HYBRID 285 BHP
M5 V10 548+ BHP (205 MPH)
A220CDi/C220CDi/E220CDi 215 BHP
X5M / X6M 618+ BHP
C350/CLS350/E350/S350 315 BHP
1M 411+ BHP
E400 /C450 420+ BHP
M3 E90/92 445 BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
C400 400 BHP
M135i/ M235i 402 BHP
63 5.5 Bi-TURBO ALL MODELS 690+BHP
M4/M3 3.0T 520+ BHP
500 4.7 Bi-TURBO ALL MODELS 498+BHP
M5 F10/M6 (STAGE 1) 680 BHP
S65 (W222) 780 BHP
M5 F10/M6 (STAGE 2) 730 BHP
SL65 BLACK 720+ BHP (+DELIMIT)
F10 520D 240 BHP
SL65 AMG 690 BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
F10 530D 305 BHP
55 AMG KOMPRESSOR 580+BHP
335i/135i/X6 370+ BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
C63 AMG 6.3 530+BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
123D 252 BHP
SALES@DMSAUTOMOTIVE
WWW.DMSAUTOMOTIVE.COM
WORLDWIDE OFFICES AND INSTALLATION
UK: 0800 030 5555
INT: +44 800 030 5555
C63 AMG 4.0T CALL FOR DETAILS

SL63 AMG 6.3 560+BHP (+DE-LIMIT,
RE-MAP & LOWER ABC SUSPENSION)
CL600 Bi-TURBO 580+ BHP
SLK55 AMG 420+ BHP (+DELIMIT)
320 CDi V6 274 BHP
350 CDi V6 312 BHP
420 /450 CDi V8 358 BHP
ALL 2015 RANGE ROVERS AVAILABLE
R ROVER SC 5.0 580+ BHP
R ROVER 4.4 SDV8 395+ BHP
R ROVER 3.0 TDV6 315+ BHP
R ROVER 3.0 SDV6 345+ BHP
EVOQUE/DISCO SPORT 2.2 DIESEL
240+ BHP
PORSCHE
997 TURBO/S 3.8 INC PDK 611 BHP
997 TURBO 3.6 625+ BHP
997 GT2 RS 670+ BHP
996 TURBO/GT2 600+ BHP
997 CARRERA S PDK 400+ BHP
997 CARRERA S 376+ BHP
997 CARRERA PDK 368 BHP
997 CARRERA GTS 435 BHP
997 GT3 UP 436 BHP
BOXSTER 3.4S 336+ BHP
CAYMAN S 342 BHP
MACAN 3.0D 315 BHP
CAYENNE GTS 440 BHP
/DMSAUTOMOTIVE
FOLLOW US FOR OUR LATEST NEWS
CAYENNE TURBO 4.8 578+ BHP

CAYENNE TURBO S 4.8 600+ BHP
CAYENNE 4.2 DIESEL 450+ BHP
CAYENNE DIESEL 315+ BHP
PANAMERA TURBO 600+ BHP
PANAMERA DIESEL 315+ BHP
EXOTIC / MISC
FERRARI CALIFORNIA 487 BHP
FERRARI 599 647 BHP
FERRARI 430 525 BHP
GALLARDO 546 BHP
LP560 608+BHP
LP640 707 BHP
HURACAN 640+ BHP
AVENTADOR CALL FOR DETAILS
MCLAREN MP4-12C 700 BHP
MCLAREN 650S 720 BHP
MURCIELAGO LP640 707 BHP
MASERATI GHIBLI 3.0S PETROL 470 BHP
MASERATI GHIBLI 3.0 PETROL 400 BHP
MASERATI GHIBLI 3.0 DIESEL 312 BHP
MASERATI GT/QPORT 438 BHP
MASERATI GT S / MC 479+ BHP
BENTLEY 4.0 T V8 690 BHP
BENTLEY CGT / F-SPUR (INC 2013) 680+ BHP
BENTLEY GT SPEED (INC 2013 ON) 695 BHP
BENTLEY SUPERSPORT 720+ BHP
FOR ALL OTHER MAKES AND MODELS,
PLEASE CALL US.
Newcars
Essentials
Mercedes E 350d
AMG Line
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
44,930
3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel
254bhp/620Nm
Nine-speed auto,
rear-wheel drive
5.9 seconds
155mph
54.3mpg
136g/km
ON SALE Now
Mercedes is impressively refined

at motorway speeds, adding to
the comfortable, luxurious feel
MercedesE350d
Performance
0-62mph/top speed
5.9 seconds/155mph
ENGINE Starter button brings stunning

3.0-litre engine to life. Mercedes claims
economy of 54.3mpg, which is some
way behind the 72.4mpg E 220d
FIRST DRIVE V6 diesel exec saloon is a compelling choice, but pricey

Sean Carson
Sean_Carson@dennis.co.uk
@Sean_Carson_
WE awarded Mercedes new executive

saloon five stars in 2.0-litre E 220d
diesel form (Issue 1,412), thanks to its
vastly improved refinement and tech. But
can the more powerful V6 diesel in the
E 350d follow in its siblings footsteps?
It has the same classy cabin and strong
build quality as the E 220d, while buyers
opting for the larger engine get plenty of
extra kit. Air-suspension is standard,
as is the upgraded COMAND Online
sat-nav system with a larger 12.3-inch
display, Apple CarPlay and Android
Auto, plus larger 18-inch alloy wheels.
The AMG Line version we drove also
features sportier styling and even bigger
19-inch alloys, but despite the wheels, the
E-Class feels compliant with the suspension
in Comfort mode. With 254bhp and 620Nm
of torque available from the 3.0-litre V6,
the car covers 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds,
while the spread of torque gives effortless
overtaking performance, helped by the
nine-speed auto boxs seamless shifts.
Push the throttle to the floor, and you get
a hushed rumble as the engine revs. The
long-legged performance suits the
cars loping ride nicely in fact, its
so refined that it builds speed
deceptively quickly. However,
the E-Class isnt the most
dynamic exec saloon
around. Weighing 120kg
E 350d is quick off the

mark; 620Nm of torque
makes overtaking easy
36 30 March 2016
EQUIPMENT Chrome exhaust
tips hint at potential of 254bhp V6

diesel; LED headlights are standard,
as is wireless mobile phone charging
Display in place of dials costs 495;

USB connection is a useful addition
more than the entry-level E 220d, the
E 350d doesnt turn in quite as keenly as
its sibling, but at least the quick steering
enables you to lean on the available grip.
It feels planted and safe, too, but comfort
and quality are where this cars main talents
lie. Tech like Mercedes autonomous Drive
Pilot is part of the 1,695 Driving Assistance
Plus pack, and it makes long journeys a
breeze. The automatic lane changing
function isnt available in the UK, though.
With a 540-litre boot, the E-Class
offers as much luggage space as the
Jaguar XF and 20 litres more than the
BMW 5 Series, while theres also
more room inside than in its rivals.
In fact, the cabin is one of the
saloons biggest draws. Go for the
twin 12.3-inch displays, and these
combine with the sumptuous, techfilled interior to make the car feel like
the most upmarket choice in its class.
PRACTICALITY E-Class 540-litre

boot trumps most rivals, but the
Jaguar XJ does offer similar luggage
space. Rear space is decent, too
Verdict
IF you value comfort over cornering
ability but still want a fast, efficient
saloon, the E 350d covers many
bases. Its loaded with standard
equipment, while the beautifully
crafted interior is a real plus point.
On top of this, the smooth ride adds
more of a sense of occasion than a
BMW 5 Series, while the Mercedes
is more practical and just as efficient.
However, the higher list price
could put some people off.
Newcars
Xxxxxxxxxxx
Coming soon
Christian Schulte
VOLVO XC60
2018
All-new version of
Volvos biggest seller
will be in showrooms
in 2018. Expect mini
XC90 looks and a
raft of safety tech.
SUPERMINIS
/c@Fabia
Performance
0-62mph/top speed
14.7 seconds/107mph
FIRST DRIVE Colour Edition model sets supermini apart

Lawrence Allan
SKODA has gained a reputation for

building sensible, practical and goodvalue cars but distinctive ones? Not really.
Now, to appeal to the more youthful end
of the market, the Fabia supermini range
has gained vibrant new Colour Editions.
Buyers have the choice of a white, green,
blue or black body, with contrasting black
or white roof, wing mirrors and wheels.
Our blue and white test car may not be to
everyones taste, but theres no doubting it
helps the smart yet understated supermini
stand out. Compared with the straight-laced
Volkswagen Polo, its refreshingly different
and colourful, but not too over the top.
The Colour Edition Fabia is based on midspec SE trim, and on top of that cars rear
parking sensors, DAB radio and Bluetooth,
it brings LED running lights, cruise control
and 16-inch alloy wheels for 540 extra.
Sat-nav is a reasonable 500 option, too.
As with every Fabia, the dash is easy
on the eye, solid and simply laid-out,
although you wont find any soft-touch
plastics. Theres also plenty of space for
four adults and a roomy 330-litre boot.
Colour Editions can be ordered with
either the 74bhp 1.0-litre or 89bhp 1.2 TSI
petrol engines. We tried the former, and,
while its pretty frugal, it can only be
described as exceptionally slow.
Building momentum at motorway
speeds is a struggle, so you wont be doing
much overtaking. At least its smooth, nippy
and refined around town, plus keeping it
up to speed is accompanied by the familiar
three-cylinder rumble. Crucially for young
buyers, the car is very cheap to insure,
sitting right down in group three.
As youd expect, the composed ride and
handling of the regular Fabia is unchanged.
A Ford Fiesta is more engaging, but the
Skodas steering is direct, with plenty of
grip and well contained body roll. Its great
around town, too, with excellent all-round
visibility and slick controls. Road noise isnt
as well isolated as in a Polo, though.
s A[
Dash is simple
and clean, but
finish trails VW
/c@ @O@
c
Price:
Engine:
Power:
Transmission:
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
13,360
1.0-litre 3cyl petrol
74bhp
Five-speed manual,
front-wheel drive
14.7 seconds
107mph
58.9mpg
108g/km
ON SALE Now
As well as distinctive paint, Colour Edition gets 16-inch alloys
Verdict
THE Colour Edition helps the Fabia stand out from the crowd,
while the additional kit for just 540 makes it decent value.
Its still the same accomplished Skoda we know, too, although
the 1.2 TSI engine is a better all-rounder. The cheap insurance
and bold style make it a winner for young buyers as well.
Ford Ka+
Ford Fiesta
Ford Fiesta ST200
Kia Rio
Mitsubishi Mirage facelift
Nissan Micra
Renault Twingo GT
Renault 5
SEAT Ibiza
SEAT Mii X-Perience
Smart ForTwo Brabus
Suzuki Swift
Suzuki Baleno
Volkswagen Polo
summer
early 2017
June
2018
mid 2016
summer
mid 2016
late 2017
2017
late 2016
late 2016
2017
June
2017
FAMILY CARS
Alfa Romeo Giulia

summer
Alfa Romeo Giulia Estate
2017
BMW 3 Series Plug-in
April
Fiat Tipo
September
Honda Civic
2017
Honda FCV
late 2016
Hyundai Ioniq
October
Kia Optima estate
summer
Jaguar XE Sportbrake
late 2016
MG5
2020
MINI Countryman
late 2016
Nissan Leaf
2017
Porsche Panamera
early 2017
Porsche Panamera estate
2017
Renault Mgane Sport Tourer autumn
Subaru Impreza
late 2016
Tesla Model 3
summer
Vauxhall Insignia
mid 2017
VauxhallInsigniaSportsTourer late 2017
Volkswagen Beetle Dune
May
Volkswagen Golf facelift
late 2016
SPORTS CARS
Alfa 4C Quadrifoglio
mid 2016
Aston Martin DB11
late 2016
Aston Martin V8 Vantage
2017
Aston Martin Vanquish
2018
Audi A5
September
Audi A9
2018
Audi RS4
late 2016
Audi TT RS
late 2016
Audi TT Sportback
2017
Audi TTQ
2017
Bentley Continental GT
2018
BMW i8 Plus
late 2016
BMW M2
April
BMW M4 GTS
April
BMW Z4
2017
Bugatti Chiron
autumn
Caterham sports car
2018
Ford GT
late 2016
Ford Mustang GT350
late 2016
Honda CR-Z
2017
Honda NSX
autumn
Hyundai i30 N
early 2017
Infiniti Q60
summer
Jaguar F-Type SVR
summer
Jaguar XE R
late 2016
Kia GT4 Stinger
2017
Lexus LC 500
late 2016
Maserati Alfieri
2017
Maserati Gran Turismo
late 2017
McLaren 540 C
May
Mercedes-AMG C 43
summer
Mercedes-AMG E 43
2017
Mercedes-AMG C 63 Coup
spring
Mercedes-AMG GT four-door
2017
MG TF replacement
2020
MINI JCW Clubman
late 2017
Nissan Pulsar Nismo
2017
Peugeot 308 R HYbrid
2017
Peugeot 408 GT
2018
Porsche 718 Boxster
April
Porsche Mission E
2020
Porsche Pajun
2018
Renault Alpine
2017
Toyota FT-1 (Supra)
2017
TVR sports car
2018
Vauxhall sports car
2019
Volkswagen Golf R400

Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8
late 2016
2019
SUVs
Abarth 500X
2017
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
2017
Aston Martin DBX
2018
Audi Q2
August
Audi Q5
late 2016
Audi Q6
2018
Audi Q7 e-tron
late 2016
Audi Q8
2020
Audi RS Q2
2017
Bentley Bentayga Coup
late 2016
BMW 1 Series Sport Cross
2017
BMW i5
2017
BMW X2
spring 2017
BMW X3
late 2016
BMW X7
2018
Citroen Grand Cactus
2018
Dacia Duster facelift
summer
DS 3 SUV
2018
Ford Kuga facelift
late 2016
Infiniti QX30
summer
Jaguar F-Pace
mid 2016
Jaguar Baby F-Pace
2018
Kia B-SUV
2018
Kia Niro Hybrid
summer
Lamborghini Urus
2018
Land Rover Defender
2018
Land Rover Discovery 5
early 2017
Maserati Levante
summer
Mazda CX-4
early 2017
Mazda large SUV
2017
Mercedes GLC Coup
late 2016
MG GS
May
Mitsubishi ASX facelift
autumn
Mitsubishi Shogun
2017
Nissan Juke
summer 2018
Nissan Qashqai facelift
2017
Peugeot 3008
spring
Porsche Cayenne Coup
2017
Qoros 2 SUV
summer
Qoros 3 City SUV
2017
Renault Alaskan pick-up
late 2016
Renault seven-seat SUV
2017
Rolls-Royce Cullinan
2018
SEAT Ateca
September
SEAT Ibiza SUV
late 2017
Skoda Coup SUV
2017
Skoda Kodiaq
2017
Skoda Yeti
2018
Suzuki Ignis
spring 2017
Tesla Model X
summer
Toyota C-HR
summer
Vauxhall Mokka X
summer
Vauxhall large SUV
2018
Volkswagen Tiguan
April
Volkswagen Golf SUV
2018
Volkswagen T-Cross
2018
Volvo XC40
2017
Volvo XC60
2018
PEOPLE MOVERS
Renault Scenic
Vauxhall Zafira X
CABRIOLETS
Audi R8 Spyder
BMW i8 Spyder
BMW M2 Convertible
Fiat 124 Spider
Jaguar XE Convertible
Mercedes C-Class Cabriolet
MercedesS-Class Cabriolet
VW Beetle Dune cabriolet
LUXURY CARS
Alpina B7
Audi A8
BMW 5 Series
Infiniti Q80
Lexus LF FC
Rolls-Royce Phantom
Volkswagen Phaeton
Volvo S90
Volvo V90
Volvo S90 Polestar
summer
late 2016
late 2016
2017
2017
summer
2017
summer
April
May
mid 2016
2017
early 2017
2017
2020
2017
2018
September
late 2016
2018
Rate your insurance and

breakdown provider now
www.autoexpress.co.uk/DPinsurance
Road tests
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives
40 30 March 2016
50
SUPER-EFFICIENT
SUPERMINI BATTLE
New petrol Volkswagen
Polo BlueMotion meets
diesel Peugeot 208.
Road tests
BMW 7 Series vs rivals
MODEL TESTED: BMW 730Ld M Sport
PRICE: 72,260 ENGINE: 3.0-litre 6cyl, 261bhp
FOR years, the Mercedes S-Class has ruled

the luxury car roost, but this sixth-generation
7 Series moves the BMW on massively, thanks to a
blend of clever construction, efcient engines and
an upmarket interior loaded with tech. We test
the 72,260 730Ld M Sport version to see if it
can challenge its closest contenders.
Styling & tech 4.5/5

BMW has evolved its corporate look even further
with this agship 7 Series, enlarging its trademark
kidney grilles and slimming the LED headlights
down to tie everything in with the front wings.
Lower down in the front bumper theres a pair
of heavily sculpted air intakes, with even sharper
styling for this M Sport model to accentuate the
7 Series width and stretched proportions. In our
test cars Carbon Black metallic paint, the BMWs
enlarged design features are more subtle, though.
The air scoops are form following function, as
they channel air through the front bumper and out,
through what BMW calls its Air Curtains in front
of each wheel. This reduces air pressure in the wheel
well and improves efciency, but equally adds an
extra element to the cars look from the side.
Its helped by the 730Lds strong shoulder line
and narrow glass area. Together with its longer
wheelbase, it gives an elegant, elongated look.
But even with the M Sport additions, the BMW
hasnt lost its more focused edge. While this might
not be to everyones taste, the black bumper insert
and large twin tailpipes are subtle, underscoring the
big tail-lights, which are connected by a bright
chrome strip for a low, long and wide stance. Theres
no doubt its imposing, even if there are hints
of scaled-up styling cues from the 3 and 5 Series.
Inside its packed full of technology, with
touch-sensitive buttons for the climate control
and pin-sharp graphics for the infotainment
system and digital gauges, but its in the rear
where the 7 Series is even more impressive.
Our test car was tted with the 4,815 Rear Seat
Comfort Package, including a seven-inch Touch
Command tablet in the rear centre armrest that
can be ejected, allowing passengers to control
everything from seat position and window blinds
to the temperature and the multimedia system.
Its intuitive, easy to use and makes it simple to
control the rear entertainment screens that are also
part of the package. With options like this, our 730
test car was well equipped, with a price of 101,305.
Driving 4.3/5
CLEVER use of lightweight composite materials,
aluminium and steel in the new Carbon Core
chassis helps keep the 7 Series weight down.
Its up to 130kg lighter than its predecessor
(depending on the model), even though this 730Ld
M Sport is still 10kg heavier than the XJ, at 1,870kg.
Despite losing out on power to the Jag as well, the
BMWs 261bhp 3.0-litre turbodiesel delivered strong
performance on test. It was the fastest car from
0-60mph, taking 6.2 seconds, while through the
gears from 30-70mph it was three tenths quicker
than the XJ, and half a second up on the S-Class.
Adaptive air-suspension is standard, and in Sport
mode, you can hustle the car along at impressive
speed for something this large, although as these
saloons are about comfort, theyre not necessarily
42 30 March 2016
Testers notes
Only a few miles behind the wheel of the new

7 Series proves BMW hasnt lost its traditional
focus on the driving experience. Its comer than
ever, but still impressively agile. This is helped by
the 1,195 rear-wheel steering system on our
test car, which gives the impression of a shorter
wheelbase and a more agile chassis, despite
the BMWs vast dimensions. However, theres
not much feel through the accurate steering.
Jame
James Disdale Road test editor
the last word in handling. As a result, rather

than a Sport Plus setting like in some of its other
cars, BMW has tted a Comfort Plus mode that
softens the damping further, improving the ride.
The 2,450 Executive Drive Pro option scans
the road ahead for lumps and bumps and sets the
suspension up accordingly in advance, so the dampers
smooth out road surfaces nicely. The 7 Series is softer
and more cushioned than the Jaguar, but despite this,
it still cant match the ride quality in the Mercedes.
Even on smooth surfaces theres still a rmer edge
to the ride, partly due to this cars 20-inch M Sport
alloys its beautifully rened, but lacks that nal
layer of nesse that the S-Class has in abundance.
Ownership 4.1/5
BMW might be a premium brand, but its results in
our Driver Power 2015 satisfaction survey werent
that impressive; it nished down the order in 14th
out of 32 manufacturers. That makes it the worst
performer of the three for customer satisfaction.
Its dealer service scored even worse, with BMWs
ofcial network coming bottom of our trio yet
again, taking 23rd place in our owner survey.
The 7 Series fares much better on safety.
Although Euro NCAP doesnt crash test cars of
this type, BMWs Dynamic Safety pack comes as
standard; this closes the windows and brings the
seatbacks upright if it senses a crash situation. The
car gets six airbags, too. Our test car was also tted
with the 985 Driving Assistant system, which brings
autonomous braking, collision alert, lane change and
lane departure warning to improve safety further.
BMW 730L
Practicality 4.5/5
WITH these long-wheelbase saloons, practicality is
rated as much on the accommodation in the rear as
it is for occupants up front. The BMW is impressive,
and the level of technology inside is something
to behold. However, there are some niggles.
While theres lots of legroom in the rear, allowing
you to recline the seatbacks a useful amount and nd
a relaxed position, the controls are located on the side
of the centre armrest, and can be awkward to get to
but you can also adjust your position from the tablet.
Theres also an optional massage function, so youll
step out feeling fresh after any journeys in the back.
The 7 Series has the biggest boot, at 515 litres, but
you cant boost this by folding the rear seats, due to
their electric adjustment; thats the case in all three
cars. Still, theres more than enough space on offer,
and the big, electric bootlid makes loading simple.
Technology
BMW has crisp touchscreen

displays, including iPad-style
tablet in the rear to control
seats and temperature
Road tests
Styling
WINDOWS feature electric

blinds, while speakers are
dotted round cabin. Badge
hints at cars cutting-edge
construction, which adds
to BMWs handling agility
Ld M Sport
!
CO2/tax
Practicality
Performance
Braking
Running costs
132g/km
Boot
0-60/30-70mph
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
32.0mpg (on test)
130 or 24%
515 litres
6.2/5.3 seconds
50.6/36.3/9.5m
80 fill-up
Running costs 3.6/5
Space
REAR seats offer plenty of

legroom, while comfortable
reclining seatbacks have a
massage function, too. Boot
is the biggest of the three
THERES not much to split our trio on price, so

depreciation, CO2 emissions and fuel economy will
be more important to running costs although at
over 70,000, expect hefty bills for all of these cars.
The BMW is the most expensive choice, at 72,260,
but is also expected to lose the most to depreciation,
at 43,761. Our experts predict it will only hold on to
39.4 per cent of its value, whereas the S-Class is set
to retain 44.9 per cent. The Jag is only marginally
better, and is expected to retain 39.9 per cent.
Its not all bad news for the 7 Series, though.
The brands ve-year/50,000-mile servicing pack
is included on the new car, which will serve up
a signicant saving compared to its rivals.
Testers notes
Our 730 also beneted from BMWs laser

headlights. At 2,450, theyre an expensive
option, but they provide excellent visibility to
boost safety, illuminating the road up to 600
metres ahead twice as far as normal lights.
Dean Gibson Deputy road test ed.
30 March 2016 43
Road tests
MODEL TESTED: Jaguar XJ 3.0 V6 D Portfolio LWB

PRICE: 72,075 ENGINE: 3.0-litre V6, 296bhp
LAST year, Jaguar facelifted its largest saloon,

mildly refreshing the XJs looks and adding a
sportier R-Sport model to the line-up at the same
time. Going against its M Sport and AMG Line rivals
from BMW and Mercedes, the XJ R-Sport should be
the natural t. However, this model doesnt come
in extended wheelbase form, so here we test the
similarly priced 72,075 Portfolio LWB, to see if
the updates can push the Jag to the top of its class.

THE XJs looks have only been mildly updated, which
is testament to the cars original lines. Its a stylish,
swooping saloon that started a design revolution for
Jaguar, and over the years has built a solid reputation
for itself, having been launched back in 2009.
But with the new twin J-shape LED headlights,
chrome bumper inserts below them and revised taillights, plus an even more upright front grille, the Jag
is still imposing even in this company. Its the lowest
car here, too, and when combined with the arcing
glass and tapered tail, this gives the XJ a svelte look.
Slim headlights provide the Jaguar with a piercing
glare from the front, while at the back, the gloss black
pillars offer a neat wraparound look to the screen.
The tall tail-lights run on to the rear wings,
unlike in the smaller Jaguar XE and XF saloons,
and in our long-wheelbase test model, they make
the XJ appear simple but elegant from the rear.
Climb aboard and youre met by a modern interior
that emits a cool blue glow at night. In the light of
day, though, material quality isnt quite as strong
as rivals. Still, its nicely crafted, and has features
like an updated infotainment system including
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Wi-Fi
hotspot and a crisper 12.3-inch TFT screen.
The list of standard kit isnt quite as extensive
as either the BMW or Mercedes, and there arent
as many hi-tech options, either. But neat screens
in the rear will keep passengers entertained, even
if the removable footrests arent quite as elegant as
the leg supports in the 7 Series or the Mercedes.
Driving 4.0/5
LIGHTWEIGHT aluminium underpinnings
and a sportier chassis mean the XJ has always
been the most driver-focused large saloon on
sale, and even with a kerbweight of 1,860kg,
its surprising just how well the Jaguar handles.
Body control is good, and the car corners with a
composed, at stance. However, riding on 20-inch
wheels as standard, the XJ feels rm, and doesnt
deal with patchy roads as well as its German rivals.
The chassis feels harsher, while the damping
isnt quite as plush hit a bump on a corner and
the inside wheels in particular thump harder than
you might expect from a luxury car like this.
Thats partly because the XJ uses standard steel
suspension at the front, with only the rear axle
featuring self-levelling air-suspension. And even
with Jags Adaptive Dynamics switchable driving
modes, theres no option to soften the chassis; only a
Dynamic setting to rm it up for even tauter handling.
Theres no criticism when it comes to the
powertrain, though. Jaguar has updated the XJs
3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine for 2016, so it now
delivers 296bhp and 700Nm of torque, making it
the most powerful unit here. Although the car lagged
four tenths behind the BMW in the 0-60mph sprint,
44 30 March 2016
Testers notes
As part of the XJs update, Jaguar has added

something called All Surface Progress Control.
This system improves traction on slippery
surfaces when pulling away, as it does in the
F-Pace SUV and with 296bhp going through
the rear wheels, it should be helpful in winter. Plus,
while the low-speed cruise control and hill descent
functions are odd additions to a luxury saloon,
they
ys
should be a boon on icy or snowy hills.
Jam
it matched performance in the lower gears, and had

the edge between 50 and 70mph in fth and sixth.
The eight-speed auto transmission is silky
smooth, while the steering is the most precise here.
Even without any clever chassis tech like the BMWs
rear-wheel steering, it still feels incredibly agile for a
car of this size, and fun to drive. But with this LWB
model theres more focus on comfort in the rear.
Thanks to air-suspension at the back, its a little
more comfortable in the rear seats. The rmer
edge to the damping upsets the body more on
typical UK roads, though, meaning the XJ isnt as
serene as the 7 Series when covering long distances.
Ownership 4.7/5
THE Jaguar makes up for its drawbacks with a strong
performance in Driver Power. The British brand
routinely nishes near the top in our satisfaction
survey, and has come second two years running.
Its garages are also highly rated they nished
third in our dealer chart while the XJ was voted the
Best Executive Car in our 2015 survey, with an overall
result of seventh out of 200 cars. Owners rated the
Jaguar highly in most areas, although it suffers
with low scores for practicality and reliability.
Safety should be good, but like the 7 Series,
the XJ trails the S-Class airbag count, featuring
six. This is acceptable, while the 1,575 Driving
Assistance pack includes autonomous emergency
braking, adaptive cruise control and queue assist.
It undercuts Mercedes similar package, although
the S-Class comes with AEB as standard.
Jaguar XJ
Practicality 3.9/5
AS it has the shortest wheelbase, lowest roof and
narrowest body, the XJ is the tightest car inside. You
wouldnt call it claustrophobic more cosy but after
the space of the BMW, the difference is noticeable.
Like the 7 Series, the rear seat controls are mounted
on the centre armrest but theres no clever control
tablet as an alternative while the seats dont have
the range of adjustment of the Jags competitors.
You can get twin 10.2-inch screens as part of the
3,100 Rear Seat Entertainment System, plus the
1,250 business tables fold away cleverly to save
space, yet theres no doubt the XJ feels more limited
as a luxury limousine in this company. It means you
cant get quite as comfortable in the back, but in the
front, the wraparound dash cocoons you nicely.
It trails the BMW on boot space, offering only
479 litres, while there are a few awkward intrusions
into the load space as well, restricting its overall use.
Interior
REAR passengers get armrest

with cup-holders, plus tables
and screens. Quality up front
cant quite match other cars,
but screen has Apple CarPlay
Road tests
Design
SLOPING roof makes XJ the

lowest choice; dials and
leather look great. Meridian
stereo sounds good. On the
road, Jag is agile for its size
LWB
!
CO2/tax
Practicality
Performance
Braking
Running costs
155g/km
Boot
0-60/30-70mph
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
35.4mpg (on test)
185 or 29%
479 litres
6.6/5.6 seconds
50.3/37.1/10.7m
83 fill-up
Running costs 3.4/5
Space
AS it has the shortest wheelbase here, Jaguar

is the smallest car inside, and youll notice this
if sitting in the back. Boot trails rivals, too; its
an awkward shape and has odd oor intrusions
THE XJ sits in insurance group 50, which is four

groups higher than the 7 Series and the S-Class. Yet
it doesnt have the most expensive premiums on test:
our sample driver faces a quote of 1,243, which is 177
less than for the Mercedes and 90 up on the BMWs.
Even though engine improvements have brought
CO2 emissions down to 155g/km, the XJ is still the
most polluting car here. As a result, it attracts a
29 per cent Benet in Kind tax rate, making it by
the far the most costly choice for company car users,
with higher-rate earners paying 9,206 a year.
If you want to shrink your tax bills, youll need
to go for a lower-spec Premium Luxury version.
Not only is it cheaper to buy, its smaller 19-inch
wheels help reduce emissions to 149g/km.
Testers notes
Although these cars arent likely to pull a

trailer, both rivals can tow 2,100kg, but in the
XJ, its not possible at all. Theres no tow bar
in Jags ofcial accessories, even though the
eng
engine has the torque and power for towing.
Dean Gibson Deputy road test ed.
30 March 2016 45
Road tests
MODEL TESTED: Mercedes S 350d AMG Line L

PRICE: 71,955 ENGINE: 3.0-litre V6, 254bhp
MERCEDES range-topping S-Class has always
pioneered new engineering innovations, and
the current car is no different. When it launched in
2013, it offered an astounding amount of tech, and
has been subtly updated since to keep it competitive.

OUR 71,995 S 350d AMG Line L test car is arguably
the sweet spot of the S-Class range, combining sporty
styling in AMG Line trim with an efcient diesel and
lots of space thanks to the long-wheelbase body.
Despite the deeper front apron, large 20-inch alloys,
subtle side skirts and a gloss black insert in the rear
bumper, the Mercedes still has an elegant, graceful
overall shape. Only the extra AMG styling upgrades
on this trim level add a touch more sportiness
without sacricing the vast cars effortless style.
Its nicely understated, without any truly headturning styling cues, so like the 7 Series the S-Class
offers discreet comfort. However, features like
dark-tinted windows, chrome trim inserts and subtle
surface details including the intersecting curves on
the doors mark this out as the agship of the range.
The wide grille with the traditional Mercedes
emblem sitting in pride of place on the bonnet also
adds a neat, retro touch lesser models in the brands
range have a larger, front-mounted three-pointed
star while the three sharp LED rings in each
tail-light mark this out as the agship.
Inside, although the S-Class stands out above
the rest of Mercedes saloon line-up, it feels
more bespoke than the 7 Series. Its as though
the range has been engineered from the S-Class
down; with the BMW and Jaguar, it seems
elements of other cars have been scaled up.
This is why the S-Class feels special, but thats
also to do with the equipment on offer in our test
car. The extended AMG Line model gets lots of kit
as standard, but with a staggering 43,185 worth of
options, you wont want for anything in this S-Class.
Helping give it a lavish feel are a rear seat comfort
pack (a 3,500 option that incorporates massage seats,
a surround sound stereo and rear entertainment
screens). Theres also an individual rear seat package,
which brings electrically adjustable back seats that
recline by up to 37 degrees, plus airline-style folding
tables, for 5,000. Mercedes 1,500 rear seat reclining
package gives even more legroom, so it edges ahead
of even the spacious rear in the BMW for comfort.
As it doesnt have the BMWs slick tablet, operating
all the equipment crammed into the S-Class isnt
quite as simple. Still, with seat controls on the
doors improving ease of use, and a removable, TV
remote-style device that performs similar functions
to the 7 Series Touch Command system, the luxury it
offers makes the result even more impressive.
Driving 4.7/5
WITH two modes for its chassis settings, you can
rm up the S-Class for sportier driving. And while
this stiffer damper mode does control the cars
mass well, serving up surprising agility, its
not where the Mercedes is at its best.
Leave everything in Comfort, and this is a simply
superb saloon. Standard air-suspension lets the wheels
oat over bumps and undulations in a way its rivals
cant match, but the body never feels out of control, so
passengers are beautifully isolated from nasty road
surfaces. Even though this is the heaviest and least
46 30 March 2016
Testers notes
Although the 780 multi-spoke 20-inch AMG

alloys look good and set the AMG Line models
bodywork off well, wed steer clear. Not only do
they bump CO2 up to 157g/km, so youll pay an
extra 35 year in road tax, they also increase the
Benet in Kind rate to 29 per cent, so business
users annual tax bill is hiked by 574. This spec
comes with 19-inch wheels as standard, and their
taller rear tyr
tyres give an even smoother ride.
Jame
powerful car on test, the S-Class engine still delivers

more than adequate performance. It only trailed its
competitors by a few tenths from 0-60mph, and
although the gaps widened in the higher gears from
50-70mph, the Mercedes never feels sluggish. And
besides, the extra renement is worth the trade-off.
Part of the performance decit comes from the
nine-speed automatic box. As it pulls the lowest revs
cruising at 70mph, it wasnt quite as sharp in-gear,
but the transmission handles changes imperceptibly,
making for effortless, smooth progress. And what
it lacks in handling prowess in this company, the
S-Class makes up for in renement and ride quality.
Ownership 4.4/5
SAFETY has always been an S-Class strength, and the
latest model upholds this: its the only car in our trio
to get autonomous braking as standard (Mercedes
calls the system Collision Prevention Assist Plus).
There are also eight airbags and an active bonnet to
reduce the affects of an impact with a pedestrian.
In addition, our test car had the 2,300 Driving
Assistance Package comprising blind spot and lane
keep assist, cross trafc alert and steering assist to
help keep you in your lane plus theres a 2,250
night vision camera that helps pick out pedestrians
in the dark. These options are expensive, but boost
safety; the other models offer similar systems.
Yet Mercedes couldnt match Jaguar for owner
satisfaction, with the brand nishing 11th in the
makers chart of our Driver Power 2015 survey. Still,
this was better than BMW, as was Mercedes 21st place
dealer ranking. The S-Class has been on sale for a few
years, and weve not heard any horror stories about
any of its sophisticated equipment going wrong.
On the road
IN Comfort mode, S-Class glides

along with a gloriously smooth ride,
and while it trails its rivals here on
performance, its still quick enough
Mercedes S
Practicality 4.6/5
THOSE reclining seats might provide exquisite
relaxation, but the room needed for the wide range
of adjustment eats into the S-Class boot space, so the
car trails the BMW by ve litres, offering 510 litres.
Still, the boot is a uniform shape, so its at least as
practical as the 7 Series, and shades the XJ.
Our car was tted with the 820 digital TV option,
giving rear passengers even more toys to play with,
while the extra space in the back and more adjustable
tray tables make it easy to get on with work while on
the move an important factor for business people.
Theres loads of equipment on offer, with on-board
Internet, heated, ventilated and massaging seats all
available as options on all three cars, but the extra
space and versatility the S-Class brings is tangible.
Running costs 3.9/5

THE S-Class delivered the strongest fuel economy on test, despite
its extra weight. It returned 37.6mpg at the pumps, with the Jag
and the BMW falling short on 35.4mpg and 32.0mpg respectively.
This means youll save 433 in fuel over 20,000 miles compared
to the BMW although anyone considering a car like this will be
less bothered about economy, and more focused on factors such
as cruising range and depreciation, where the S-Class also edges
the 7 Series. CO2 emissions of 148g/km mean the Mercedes
will cost 145 a year in road tax, while the BMWs cleaner
engine sees it drop into one tax band lower, costing 130.
Road tests
HEAD TO
HEAD
CO2/tax
148g/km
145 or 27%
Key tech
7 SERIES key with its colour

display is like a mini smartphone.
It lets you set the climate control
remotely, plus check the fuel
range and the security status.
A smartphone app would
do the job just as well, but it
reinforces the cars hi-tech feel,
with features like gesture control
letting you adjust the volume with
a simple swish of your nger.
Practicality
Boot
510 litres
Performance
0-60/30-70mph
6.5/5.8 seconds
!
Braking
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
50.9/57.5/10.0m
Parking solution
BMWS 1,100 advanced parking
pack makes manoeuvring a
breeze. Not only does it feature
a 360-degree camera, it allows
you to park the saloon remotely.
You can climb out of the car and
simply let it park itself using the
key another brilliant innovation
on this sixth-generation 7 Series.
Running costs
37.6mpg (on test)
72 fill-up
S 350d L
Space race
Huge screens in dash give interior a sense of occasion, while in the back,
reclining seats let passengers relax. In corners, car is surprisingly agile
Lighting
AFTER dark, the
ambient lighting
ensures S-Class
looks just as
good inside; rear
passengers get
remote for the
entertainment
system in back
S-CLASS feels slightly roomier

in the rear, helped by its higher
rooine, but the 7 Series is close
behind. Both get options for
multi-way seat adjustment and
plenty of hi-tech kit. The Jaguar
isnt as spacious, although its
cosy rather than cramped.
Testers notes
Twin 12.3-inch displays on the S-Class mix

tech with design, giving a sweeping look and
customisable backlighting that also picks out
the Burmester 3D surround sound system.
Its a pr
pricey
y
6,430 option, but sounds great.
Se
Sean Carson Senior road tester
30 March 2016 47

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Figures
On the road price/total as tested
Residual value (after 3yrs/36,000)
Depreciation
Annual tax liability std/higher rate
Annual fuel cost (12k/20k miles)
Ins. group/quote/road tax band/cost
Cost of 1st/2nd/3rd service
Mercedes
S 350d
AMG Line L
71,955/115,140
32,301/44.9%
39,654
3,875/7,750
1,487/2,479
46/1,420/F/145
41pm (3yrs)
Length/wheelbase
Height/width
Engine
Peak power/revs
Peak torque/revs
Transmission
Fuel tank capacity/spare wheel
Boot capacity
Kerbweight/payload/towing weight
Turning circle/drag coefficient
Basic warranty (miles)/recovery
Service intervals/UK dealers
Driver Power manufacturer/dealer pos.
NCAP: Adult/child/ped./assist/stars
5,246/3,165mm
1,496/1,899mm
V6/2,987cc
254/3,600 bhp/rpm
620/1,600 Nm/rpm
9-spd auto/rwd
70 litres/repair kit
510 litres
1,975/715/2,100kg
12.3 metres/N/A
3yrs (unltd)/4yrs
15,500 miles (1yr)/136
11th/21st
N/A
0-60/30-70mph
30-50mph in 3rd/4th
50-70mph in 5th/6th/7th/8th
Top speed/rpm at 70mph
Braking 70-0/60-0/30-0mph
Noise outside/idle/30/70mph
Auto Express econ (mpg/mpl)/range
Govt urban/extra-urban/combined
Actual/claimed CO2/tax bracket
6.5/5.8 secs
2.6/3.4 secs
4.4/5.4/7.2/11.4 secs
155mph*/1,200rpm
50.9/37.5/10.0m
70/51/63/69dB
37.6/8.3/579 miles
42.2/57.7/52.3mpg
9.3/12.7/11.5mpl
201/148g/km/27%
Airbags/Isofix/park sensors/camera
Auto box/stability/adapt cruise/AEB**
Climate control/leather/heated seats
Metallic paint/LED lights/keyless go
Sat-nav/USB/DAB radio/Bluetooth
Results
Eight/yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/2,300/yes
Yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/1,490
Yes/yes/yes/yes
RESIDUAL VALUES
OLDER S-Class
still has the edge
over the all-new
BMW and revised
Jag for predicted
residuals. Its set
to lose 4,107 less
to depreciation
than the 7 Series.
BOOT SPACE
MERCEDES and
BMW offer a
similar amount
of luggage space,
and both leave
the XJ trailing.
NCAP RATING
NONE of our trio
is crash tested by
Euro NCAP, but
with a raft of
advanced safety
systems, all three
offer great levels
of protection.
AIRBAG COUNT
S-CLASS strong
safety record is
helped by eight
airbags. Its also
the only car here
with autonomous
emergency braking
as standard.
MERCEDES
1st
THE S-Class cements its

position at the top. While
BMWs new 7 Series comes
close, rivalling it for technology, the
Mercedes better mixes its futuristic
feel with exquisite ride quality. Its
not quite as fast, but performance
is more than adequate, plus it feels
more special than its rivals in this test.
On top of that, its the cheapest car
here and comes with more equipment.
Road tests
BMW 730Ld
Sport
MS
Jaguar XJ
3.0 V6 D
Portfolio LWB
72,260/101,305
28,499/39.4%
43,761
3,460/6,919
1,747/2,912
46/1,153/E/130
5yrs/50k (included)
72,075/88,220
28,772/39.9%
43,303
4,630/9,206
1,580/2,633
50/1,243/F/185
229/329/229
5,238/3,210mm
1,479/1,902mm
6cyl in-line/2,993cc
261/4,000 bhp/rpm
620/2,000 Nm/rpm
8-spd auto/rwd
78 litres/run-flats
515 litres
1,870/695/2,100kg
12.8 metres/N/A
3yrs (unltd)/3yrs
Variable (2yrs)/153
14th/23rd
N/A
5,255/3,157mm
1,460/1,899mm
V6/2,993cc
296/4,000 bhp/rpm
700/2,000 Nm/rpm
8-spd auto/rwd
80 litres/space saver
479 litres
1,860/590kg/N/A
12.3 metres/N/A
3yrs (unltd)/3yrs
16,000 miles (1yr)/97
2nd/3rd
N/A
6.2/5.3 secs
2.4/2.9 secs
3.7/5.0/6.7/12.8 secs
155mph*/1,350rpm
50.6/36.3/9.5m
73/52/65/72dB
32.0/7.0/549 miles
47.9/64.2/56.5mpg
10.5/14.1/12.4mpl
237/132g/km/24%
Six/yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/2,960/985
Yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes/yes
BMW
WEIGHT
THE 7 Series isnt
the lightest car, but
clever new Carbon
Core tech means
its as spacious as
the Mercedes yet
undercuts it on
the scales.
PERFORMANCE
BMW recorded the
fastest 0-60mph
time, with strong
traction off the
line and a smooth
and snappy eightspeed auto box.
LOWER CO2
COMBINATION
of lightweight
materials like
carbon fibre and
aluminium is the
key to 7 Series
132g/km low
CO2 emissions.
2nd
LOW emissions and

inclusive servicing will
help cut running costs, but while the
7 Series is also great to drive, it isnt
quite as special inside as the S-Class.
Theres no faulting the gadgets on
offer, although it feels more like an
enlarged, expensive 5 Series than a
bespoke flagship saloon. Still, good
agility and comfort, plus lots of space,
make it a brilliant business limousine.
6.6/5.6 secs
2.4/2.9 secs
3.8/4.8/6.5 secs/N/A
155mph/1,400rpm
50.3/37.1/10.7m
71/54/67/72dB
35.4/7.8/623 miles
39.8/54.3/48.0mpg
8.8/11.9/12.4mpl
214/155g/km/29%
Six/yes/yes/yes
Y/y/y/1,575^
Yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes/yes
JAGUAR
INSURANCE
THE XJ sits in
insurance group
50 four groups
higher than its
rivals here but
surprisingly it
doesnt have the
highest premiums
on test for our
sample driver.
DRIVER POWER
JAGUAR scores
consistently
well in our annual
satisfaction survey.
The brand finished
in second place
in the makers
chart in 2015.
EQUIPMENT
ALL three cars
come with lots
of kit as standard.
As with its rivals,
Jag charges for
adaptive cruise,
although its
cheaper, at 1,575.
3rd
DESPITE its striking

design, the XJ feels
compromised in this company.
Theres not as much space in
the cabin or the boot, while the
ride is simply too firm for a luxury
saloon. Its also the least efficient
car here and falls short on cuttingedge kit. Yet the XJ is packed
with old-school, upmarket
charm and is great to drive.
*Electronically limited top speed. **AEB = autonomous emergency braking. In red = equipment fitted to our test car. ^Part of adaptive cruise package.
Insurance quotes from AA (Tel 0800 107 0680 or www.theAA.com) for a 42-year-old living in Banbury, Oxon, with three penalty points. Residual values provided by CDL VIP Data.
COMING
soon
Is it worth waiting
for this model?
Audi A8L SE Executive

3.0 TDI LWB
DUE: 2017 PRICE: 73,000 (est)

ENGINE: 3.0 V6, 300bhp (est)
AN all-new Audi A8 is due next year,
with electric turbos for better response,
more power and greater efciency. It
will debut the Piloted Drive autonomous
tech, plus Audis latest design language.
30 March 2016 49
Road tests
Volkswagen Polo vs Peugeot 208
In the past, buyers looking

to save on their motoring bills
would go for a diesel, but the
latest unleaded models are
equally easy on your wallet
50 30 March 2016
Road tests
Small
wonders
Volkswagens latest eco Polo is now

petrol-powered. But is it a better fuelsipping supermini than diesel Peugeot?
WITH fuel prices staying surprisingly
low, the diesel versus petrol debate
continues to rumble on. In the past, buyers
looking to save on their motoring bills
would go for a diesel-powered model, but
the latest generation of frugal unleaded
cars is just as easy on your wallet.
One of the most recent petrol arrivals is
the Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion. The first
two generations of this car were diesel only,
but this new model has switched allegiances.
Under the bonnet is a turbocharged 1.0-litre
three-cylinder engine that combines with
weight-saving and aerodynamic tweaks to
deliver CO2 emissions of just 94g/km and
claimed 68.9mpg economy. Yet this efficiency
doesnt come at the expense of quality and
everyday usability, because in every other
regard, the BlueMotion is just as comfortable,
refined and well equipped as the standard car.
However, if you want a supermini with
headline-grabbing efficiency figures, the
Peugeot 208 takes some beating. Fitted with
the brands entry-level 1.6-litre HDi diesel, the
recently facelifted model combines 90g/km
CO2 emissions with claimed 80.7mpg economy.
The neat style, bold interior and personalisation
options only add to the 208s appeal.
So which of our fuel-sipping superminis
makes more sense? Read on to find out.
Pictures: Otis Clay
Location: Longcross Proving Ground, Chobham, Surrey
VW Polo TSI BlueMotion
Peugeot 208 BlueHDi
Price: 15,395
Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl diesel, 74bhp
0-60mph: 12.6 seconds
Test economy: 57.9mpg/12.7mpl
CO2: 90g/km Annual road tax: 0
Price: 15,605
Engine: 1.0-litre 4cyl petrol, 94bhp
0-60mph: 9.6 seconds
Test economy: 49.2mpg/10.8mpl
CO2: 94g/km Annual road tax: 0
30 March 2016 51
Road tests
THE current Volkswagen Polo is our favourite

choice in this class, having scooped the coveted
Best Supermini crown at our 2015 New Car Awards
(Issue 1,377). Theres a wide range of engines and
trim levels to choose from, as well as the option of
three or ve-door bodystyles. Here we test the new
1.0-litre TSI BlueMotion ve-door, which costs 15,605.
MODEL TESTED:
VW Polo 1.0 TSI BlueMotion
PRICE: 15,605 ENGINE: 1.0-litre
4cyl, 94bhp
Styling 4.0/5
A FACELIFT last year helped boost the Polos kerb
appeal, but it still looks straight-laced compared to
newer rivals. While its a handsome and well
proportioned car overall, the head-turning design
air that makes the Peugeot 208 stand out is lacking.
Still, our BlueMotion test car generates more
interest, courtesy of its Buenos Aires 15-inch alloys
and special aerodynamic bodykit with deeper front
and rear bumpers, side skirts, a tailgate spoiler and
faired-in front grille. Buyers wanting to attract more
attention can specify the 790 bi-xenon headlamps,
which feature distinctive daytime running lights.
Yet what the Polo lacks in visual excitement, it
more than makes up for with its top-notch nish.
Externally, there are tight panel gaps, plus the doors
close with reassuring solidity. Its upmarket appeal
continues inside, where the VW is comfortably ahead
of the Peugeot for quality and attention to detail.
The simple, upright dashboard doesnt have the
bold and imaginative style of the 208s, but its
carefully laid out and constructed from high-grade
materials and components. Another highlight is the
standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
This has a motion sensor to bring the buttons
up as you move your nger closer to the screen, so
the display looks clean when youre not navigating.
The BlueMotion isnt overburdened with standard
equipment, but it has all the essentials. Air-con, DAB
radio, Bluetooth, cruise control and a leather steering
wheel are all included. And while options are pricier
than on the Peugeot, theres greater choice such as
heated seats (360) and adaptive cruise control (395).
Handling
VWS steering is well weighted and
precise, which inspires condence in
fast corners. Polo has plenty of grip, too
Volkswage
Driving 4.2/5
WHEN it comes to delivering big-car driving
dynamics and renement in a small package, the
Polo takes some beating. The turbocharged 1.0-litre
is smaller and has fewer cylinders than the 208s
diesel unit, but at 94bhp, its 20bhp more powerful.
As a result, the Volkswagen was much quicker
from 0-60mph, taking a brisk 9.6 seconds.
Yet while the Peugeot managed to claw back
some ground during our in-gear tests, there was
little to separate our duo in the real world. The Polo
loses out for outright torque, but its 160Nm peak is
delivered at just 1,500rpm, meaning its got plenty of
low-rev punch. Furthermore, the standard ve-speed
box has a slick and precise action, helping you make
the most of the small engines available performance.
Even when the three-cylinder unit is being
worked hard, renement is still excellent, and its far
quieter than the 208s diesel. Theres a sporty off-beat
rasp at the top of the rev range, but in normal use, the
TSI rarely disrupts the calm of the cabin. Factor in the
low levels of wind and road noise, and the Polo is the
more effortless motorway cruiser here. This feeling
is enhanced by the supple ride, which doesnt have
the same rm edge around town as the Peugeots.
Happily, this comfort and renement dont come
at the expense of handling. Theres some body roll,
although grip is strong and the Polo always remains
stable and composed. Steering is naturally weighted
and precise, which makes it easy to place the car, while
visibility is good, too. The 208 feels a little more alert
52 30 March 2016
through a series of corners, but it doesnt deliver the

same excellent ride and handling balance as the VW.
Ownership 3.7/5
OF the mainstream brands, Volkswagen comes closest
to rivalling premium marques for upmarket appeal.
Even so, buyers have been less than impressed with
the ownership experience, placing the rm a lowly
22nd in our Driver Power 2015 satisfaction survey.
Its dealers performed even worse, nishing 30th
out of 31 25 places behind Peugeots franchises.
Still, Volkswagen has also worked hard on the
Polos safety credentials, and all cars get electronic
stability control, traction control, brake assist and
post-collision brake application. Extras include
the 395 adaptive cruise control system that
also brings autonomous emergency braking.
The Polo earned a ve-star Euro NCAP crash
test rating in 2009, but it only gets four airbags
curtain bags will set you back an extra 465.
Running costs 4.4/5

AT 15,605, the Polo is 210 more expensive than
the 208, and theres little to separate our duo for
standard kit. Yet while the VW emits more CO2 than

its rival, its not subjected to the diesel surcharge, so
business users will actually pay less Benet in Kind
tax although lower-rate earners will only make a
modest 87 annual saving. And as with the Peugeot,
private buyers will pay nothing in road tax.
During its time with us, the Polo managed
49.2mpg economy, which was slightly lower
than the 208s return. Yet factor in the
similar cost of petrol and diesel, and the
Polo will cost you a little more at the pumps.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of BlueMotion
ownership is the poor predicted residuals, which
our experts have calculated at just 38.6 per cent.
However, the relatively low values of the cars
here means that after three years, VW buyers will
only lose around 500 more than 208 owners.
Road tests
Testers notes
The long lead times involved in new models

mean the latest Polo BlueMotion would have
been in the pipeline long before the Dieselgate
scandal broke, yet its timing couldnt be better.
With VW still reeling from the after affects of
its wrongdoing, an eco-friendly petrol-powered
model could be the perfect antidote. The fact that
the TSI model is arguably the pick of the already
excellent Polo line-up is the icing on the cake.
Jame
Ride
POLO has a
supple ride
around town
on unique
15-inch
Buenos Aires
alloy wheels.
At high
speeds, the
car remains
rened and
composed
en Polo
!
CO2/tax
Practicality
Performance
Braking
Running costs
94g/km
Boot (seats up/down)
0-60/30-70mph
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
49.2mpg (on test)
0 or 13%
280/952 litres
9.6/10.1 seconds
49.7/34.6/8.3m
47 fill-up
Practicality 3.8/5
THE Volkswagens 280-litre boot is just ve litres
smaller than the 208s, yet it benets from a lower
load lip and wider opening. However, unlike
higher-spec cars, theres no variable boot oor,
while the folding rear bench is a single-piece item.
Access to the rear bench is easy thanks to the wideopening doors, while theres just about enough room
for three adults at a pinch. Theres little to separate
our contenders in terms of head and legroom, yet the
Polos large windows make it feel brighter and airier.
Elsewhere, there are deep cup-holders and a handy
tray in front of the USB and 12V sockets on the
centre console to keep your smartphone in,
while the glovebox is large and usefully shaped.
Testers notes
Gearbox
FIVE-speed manual shifts
eagerly and precisely.
Central display is smart,
but sat-nav is a 700 option
The BlueMotion gets the neat Think Blue

Trainer, which offers tips on how to improve
economy. You can see what effects your
anticipation, gearchanging and throttle
app
applications are having on efciency.
Dean Gibson Dep. road test editor
30 March 2016 53
Road tests
MODEL TESTED: Peugeot 208 1.6 BlueHDi 75

PRICE: 15,395 ENGINE: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 74bhp
WHEN it hit showrooms in 2012, the Peugeot

208 marked a return to supermini form for the
French brand. With its smart styling and plenty of
cutting edge-kit, the car is up with the best in the
class, while a facelift late last year only added to its
appeal. On top of that, in 1.6 HDi 75 Stop and Start
guise, it promises penny-pinching running costs.
Here we test the 15,395 Active ve-door, although
the car in our pictures is a more expensive Allure.
Styling 3.7/5
THERE wasnt a lot wrong with the neatly designed
208s looks, so the recent facelift was a very subtle
affair. Its rounded lines and bold details are quite
distinctive, particularly when compared to the
conservatively styled Volkswagen Polo.
Up front, theres a bold grille and jutting front
bumper, plus a pair of eye-catching swept-back
headlamps. Move around to the rear, and youll
spot the neat boomerang-effect LED tail-lights.
Active cars get 15-inch alloy wheels as standard,
but the 16-inch rims seen on the car in our
pictures are a 200 upgrade.
Peugeot offers a variety of customisation options,
too, including the Menthol White and Lime Yellow
packs that add bold trim inserts to the exterior and
interior. Also available is a 645 textured matt paint
nish thats rough to the touch. Unfortunately,
the head-turning Orange Power metallic seen
here is only available on Allure and GTi versions.
The smart design continues inside, although the
layout takes some getting used to due to the small
steering wheel and high-set dials; some of our
testers struggled to see the dials without setting the
wheel uncomfortably low. The dashboard itself is
dominated by the infotainment touchscreen, which
looks good and features crisp graphics but can
be frustratingly slow to react to your inputs.
The top half of the cabin is covered in highgrade materials, but look lower down, and youll
nd some cheap-feeling plastics. Overall, the
Peugeot isnt as upmarket as the more soberly
styled VW, yet its still robustly screwed together.
Even in modest Active guise, the 208 gets a
decent amount of standard kit. Cruise control,
air-conditioning, DAB radio and Bluetooth all
feature, while sat-nav is a reasonable 450 upgrade.
Driving 3.5/5
ON start-up, the 1.6 BlueHDi diesel makes more
noise than the Polos petrol unit, plus its more
intrusive when extended. Its 74bhp output trails by
20bhp, but it has 70Nm more torque, at 230Nm.
Even so, the 208 couldnt keep pace with the Polo
at the track. We recorded 0-60mph in 12.6 seconds,
which was three seconds slower than its rival. Despite
its taller ratios, the Peugeot clawed back some
ground during our in-gear tests, although the
ve-speed boxs shift felt vague, with a long throw
and sticky action that required patient inputs.
Still, there were few complaints about the
effectiveness of the brakes, which halted the
lightweight 1,065kg Peugeot from 70mph
in just 43.6 metres and from 30mph in
only 8.4m. However, this strong display
was undermined by a sharp pedal action
that made it tricky to slow smoothly.
Away from the track, the differences werent
quite as apparent. The Peugeots diesel is noisier,
54 30 March 2016
Testers notes
Peugeots 74bhp 1.6-litre BlueHDi model with

stop/start emits just 79g/km of CO2 the lowest
gure for a non-hybrid car. However, look past
that, and youll nd it doesnt make much sense
to choose it over the car tested here, which is
200 cheaper and falls in the same VED and
Benet in Kind tax bands. Only if most of your
driving is around town will the stop/start model
offer any saving over its cheaper counterpart.
Cornering
STEERING is sharp and
accurate, while body
roll is restricted
Jame
but it doesnt need to be worked as hard as the Polos

three-cylinder petrol. Thats a good thing, because
the 208s engine note is coarse and intrusive when
worked past 2,500rpm. Theres also not much more
performance beyond this point, so its best to change
up early and use the Peugeots healthy torque.
Point the cars nose down a twisting back road,
and youll discover rm suspension and quick
steering. At moderate speeds, the 208 feels a bit
vague, but it grips harder and delivers greater
composure than its rival if you push more.
Theres also surprisingly little body roll, even
through sharp corners. However, the trade-off
for this strong body control is a rm ride. The car
follows bumps and thuds into potholes around
town, plus it dgets on motorways. Yet as our
data table (Page 57) shows, the 208 recorded the
same noise readings, thanks to its engine
turning over at a relaxed 1,900rpm at 70mph.
Ownership 4.1/5
PEUGEOT has made big strides forward in terms of
reliability in recent years, and the brand nished
an excellent 10th overall in our Driver Power 2015
manufacturer survey. That can be put down in part
to models such as the 208, which came 73rd in
the customer satisfaction poll. Plus, if you have to
take your Peugeot back to a garage, then you can
expect rst-class service, as the network nished
a brilliant fth in last years dealer survey.
The 208 earned a ve-star Euro NCAP crash test
rating, although the assessment was conducted
back in 2012 and it has been toughened up
since. Either way, all models get six airbags
(the Volkswagen has just four), tyre pressure
monitors and emergency brake force distribution.
Active City Brake is a 430 option and also
includes automatic lights and wipers.
Running costs 4.3/5

ON paper, the Peugeot makes more nancial
sense, as its cheaper to buy, emits less CO2 and
promises stronger fuel economy, plus it matches the
Volkswagen for standard kit. Yet dig a little deeper,
and youll nd it isnt all good news for the 208.
While it claims 90g/km emissions, the diesel
levy means business users will pay more Benet in
Kind tax than for the VW. Still, private owners fare
a little better thanks to the cars stronger predicted
residuals of 43 per cent, while its three-year service
plan works out at 468. And we managed 57.9mpg
economy on test, which was ahead of the Polo.
Peugeot 20
Boot
WITH the rear

seats folded,
the 208 has
a 126-litre
advantage
over the Polo.
Plus it gets
split-fold seats
Practicality 3.7/5
THE 208 is reasonably practical, with a 285-litre boot that increases
to 1,076 litres with the rear seats folded. You also get 60:40 split-fold
rear seats the VW has a single-piece unit. The load lip is higher
than on the Polo, though, and the tailgate opening is small.
Back seat space is decent, with a fraction more legroom than in
the VW, while theres plenty of cabin storage. However, theres no
courtesy light in the rear, meaning passengers will have to fumble
around in the dark to buckle up. And, as always, the glovebox is half
the size of its rivals, thanks to the position of the fuses behind it.
PAGE 90: Mike Rutherfords view on the 208 BlueHDi
Road tests
HEAD TO
CO2/tax
90g/km
0 or 16%
Practicality
Boot (seats up/down)
Alloys
OUR cars
optional
16-inch alloy
wheels are
a 200
upgrade;
15-inch rims
come as
standard
285/1,076 litres
Performance
0-60/30-70mph
HEAD
Engines
OUR contenders take different

approaches under the bonnet.
The Polos 1.0-litre three-cylinder
petrol uses direct injection and
turbocharging to deliver 94bhp
and emissions of just 94g/km.
Peugeot has actually made
its entry-level diesel bigger,
as this detuned version of its
familiar 1.6-litre HDi engine
replaces the old 1.4-litre unit.
12.6/13.8 seconds
!
Braking
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
43.6/35.7/8.4m
Design
Running costs
57.9mpg (on test)
47 fill-up
08
PEUGEOT proves that you

dont have to sacrice style
to save fuel. Not only is
there a greater choice of
brighter colours than on the
VW, you can also add a number
of personalisation packs that
bring bright trim inserts to
the interior and exterior.
Options
THE Polo cant be customised in
the same way as the 208, but it
can be tted with more big-car
features. Adaptive cruise control
(395), xenon headlamps (795)
and heated seats (360) can all
be added. These items arent
even available on the Peugeot.
Testers notes
The 208 still looks fresh and modern,

but there are some aspects of the car
that have dated terribly. For instance,
I was shocked to nd the Peugeot has
an old-fashioned lockable fuel ller.
Sea
Sean Carson Senior road tester
Dials
SMALL steering wheel makes high-set dials difcult

to see. DAB radio comes as standard, while sat-nav costs 450
30 March 2016 55

Volksw
Figures
On-the-road price/total as tested
Residual value (after 3yrs/30,000)
Depreciation
Annual tax liability std/higher rate
Annual fuel cost (12k/20k miles)
Ins. group/quote/road tax band/cost
Servicing costs
VW Polo 1.0
TSI BlueMotion
15,605/16,850
6,008/38.5%
9,597
404/809
1,145/1,908
16/480/A/0
288 (2yrs/20k)
Length/wheelbase
Height/width
Engine
Peak power
Peak torque
Transmission
Fuel tank capacity/spare wheel
Boot capacity (seats up/down)
Kerbweight/payload/towing weight
Turning circle/drag coefficient
Basic warranty (miles)/recovery
Service intervals/UK dealers
Driver Power manufacturer/dealer pos.
NCAP: Adult/child/ped./assist/stars
3,972/2,470mm
1,453/1,682mm
3cyl in-line/999cc
94/5,000 bhp/rpm
160/1,500 Nm/rpm
5-spd man/fwd
45 litres/foam
280/952 litres
1,111/505/500kg
10.6 metres/N/A
3yrs (60,000)/1yr
Variable (1yr)/223
22nd/30th
90/86/41/71/5 (2009)
0-60/30-70mph
30-50mph in 3rd/4th
50-70mph in 5th
Top speed/rpm at 70mph
Braking 70-0/60-0/30-0mph
Noise levels outside/idle/30/70mph
Auto Express econ (mpg/mpl)/range
Actual/claimed CO2/tax bracket
9.6/10.1 secs
4.9/7.1 secs
11.4 secs
119mph/2,500rpm
49.7/34.6/8.3m
59/43/63/69dB
49.2/10.8/487 miles
56.5/78.5/68.9mpg
12.4/17.3/15.2mpl
133/94g/km/13%
Airbags/Isofix/parking sensors/cam
Air-conditioning/leather/heated seats
Auto gearbox/stability/cruise control
Metallic paint/xenon lights/AEB*
Sat-nav/USB/DAB radio/Bluetooth
Four/yes/295/240
Yes/no/360
No/yes/yes
545/795/395
700/yes/yes/yes
Results
VOLKSWAGEN
Road
o d tests
Peugeot 208
1.6 BlueHDi 75
RESIDUALS
BLUEMOTION has
weaker residuals
than other Polo
models. It cant
match 208, either.
SERVICING PACK
YOU can pay for
servicing scheme
up front or 15.99
a month over an
18-month period.
Purchase the
car through
Solutions finance,
and the price
of the package
drops to 149.
NOISE
SMOOTH petrol
engine is much
quieter than 208s
diesel at idle.
However, Polos
advantage is wiped
out at 70mph.
BIG CAR KIT

VW gets all the
essentials, but you
can add advanced
kit not normally
available in this
class, such as
xenons and
adaptive cruise.
1st
THE switch from diesel to

petrol power has given
the Polo BlueMotion a new lease of life.
Smooth, responsive and frugal, the
three-cylinder unit delivers moneysaving efficiency with no compromises
on the drive. Like all Polo models, the
newcomer is also well built and boasts
a cabin thats a cut above when it
comes to quality. The only cause for
concern is the below-par residuals.
Deals &
discounts
15,395/15,395
6,620/43.0%
8,775
491/982
978/1,629
15/363/A/0
12.99 p/m (3yrs/35k)
3,973/2,538mm
1,460/1,739mm
4cyl in-line/1,560cc
74/3,500 bhp/rpm
230/1,750 Nm/rpm
5-spd man/fwd
45 litres/foam
285/1,076 litres
1,080/570/840kg
10.4 metres/N/A
3yrs (60,000)/1yr
12,500 miles (1yr)/300
10th/5th
88/78/61/83/5 (2012)
12.6/13.8 secs
5.3/9.1 secs
12.7 secs
106mph/1,900rpm
43.6/35.7/8.4m
68/45/63/69dB
57.9/12.7/573 miles
67.3/94.2/80.7mpg
14.8/20.7/17.8mpl
131/90g/km/16%
Six/yes/270/470
Yes/no/no
No/yes/yes
495/no/430
450/yes/yes/yes
Facts, figures and advice

powered by carbuyer.co.uk
ENGINE
THE 208s 1.6-litre
HDi gets 74bhp
here, but Allure
and GT Line
models are
available with
98bhp and 118bhp.
DRIVER POWER
PEUGEOT has
worked on its
aftersales care,
and as a result, its
dealers finished
fifth in our 2015
survey well ahead
of VWs network.
BENEFIT IN KIND
THE 208 emits less
CO2 than its rival,
but three per cent
diesel surcharge
means business
users face bigger
Benefit in Kind bills
than for the Polo.
2nd
PEUGEOT
RECENT changes have

helped keep the stylish
208 in contention, while this entrylevel diesel engine delivers enough
performance and strong economy.
However, the Peugeot isnt as refined
as the petrol Polo, plus it doesnt feel
as grown-up to drive. And while it
looks good, the 208 cant match the
VWs interior for premium appeal.
And crucially, it costs more to run.
LIKE other VW models, the

Polo BlueMotion is eligible
for the brands Solutions
PCP finance plan. The
representative APR of 6.9
per cent is a little steep
compared to rival offers, but
VW is currently throwing in a
1,400 deposit contribution.
Plus, you can vary the
length of the contract (18 to
48 months), the size of your
deposit and mileage limit
to suit your budget and
circumstances. For instance,
put down an initial 3,000
and the BlueMotion can be
yours for 177 a month over
three years. At the end of the
term, you can pay 6,781 to
keep the car, or simply hand
it back and start again.
Peugeot has a number of
enticing offers, including its
Just Add Fuel deal. This neat
arrangement takes care of
all your motoring costs,
including insurance and
servicing. All you have
to do is fill the tank.
Better still, under this
scheme, the 208 is also
available with zero per cent
APR and a 500 deposit
contribution. Stump up a
3,000 down payment,
and youll pay 213 a
month over three years
with an optional final
payment of 5,623.

*AEB = autonomous emergency braking. In red = equipment fitted to our test car. Insurance quotes from AA (Tel 0800 107 0680 or www.theAA.com)
for a 42-year-old living in Banbury, Oxon, with three penalty points. Residual values provided by CDL VIP Data.
SAME
PRICE
Other options for

similar money...
NEW: Ford Fiesta 1.5 TDCi Style ECOnetic

PRICE: 15,795
795 ENGINE: 1.5-litre 4cyl, 94bhp
USED: VW Golf 1.6 TDI BlueMotion

15,490 ENGINE:
PRICE: 1
NE: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 108bhp
AT this price point,

oint, youre limited to a Fiesta Style, which
misses out on alloys
lloys and a DAB radio. But
sparkling handling
ing and 82g/km
CO2 emissions are
re a bonus.
Haggling could get you
a Zetec (right) for
the same price.
ALTERNATIVELY,
you could
ALTERNATI
uld stretch to a used VW Golf
BlueMotion diesel, which claims
BlueMotio
economy. It also
83.1mpg e
superb renement
offers su
more spacious cabin.
and a mor
n.
We found a 4,000-mile
model for 15,490.
2015 mode
30 March 2016 57
Our cars
Living with a Ford S-MAX
Dean Gibson
Dean_Gibson@dennis.co.uk
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: b Rn:Jb Rb 5bb :ZZbZ
:Z:b Rb R R:W }R}
Rb } :Rb R W n
:b }b : n tZ:Rb :bW
Ford S-MAX
:Z }b -6 t b :Z bobZ
.}b b: JJb } b ::
}bb b .}bb ZJ }: :
6 n: b:b :W J : b: }b
-6 tb n :Z b: :t b
: :Z:Z 5bb :ZZbZ n :Z b:
R:b: n s :Z : : n p
n b: b:Rb n ZW J }b -6
ZJbZ : J n : Jb: : -W
b:b }: oZt :Rb n R:
The engine is quiet and refined, and with soft

suspension, the S-MAX is a comfortable cruiser
58 30 March 2016
FIRST REPORT
one car is a better
S-MAX doesnt have same handling

ability as its predecessor, but is rened
on the move. Maximum load capacity
is 2,020 litres with all the seats folded
Living with a Ford S-MAX
Our cars
Essentials
Ford S-MAX 2.0 TDCi
180 Titanium X Pshift
On fleet since: January 2016
Price new: 30,395 (36,390)
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl, 178bhp
CO2/tax: 139g/km/130
Options: Metallic paint (545),
Sony DAB nav (450), front and rear
cameras (400), rear sunblinds (125),
adaptive cruise and city stop (900),
park assist (150), blind spot monitor
(500), hands-free power tailgate
(400), Winter Pack (300)
Insurance*: Group: 24 Quote: 360
Mileage/mpg: 2,325/37.2mpg
Any problems? None so far
*Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a
42-year-old in Banbury, Oxon, with three points.
Will our new Ford S-MAX show that

option than two for a growing family?
CO2/tax
Practicality
Running costs
139g/km
Boot space (7/5/2 seats)
37.2mpg (on test)
130 or 25%
285/965/2,020 litres
71 fill-up
Pete Gibson
WE LIKE Wide-angle rear view

mirror is useful for keeping an
eye on the back seats, while
the optional front camera helps
with manoeuvring such a big car
Theres just enough room for adults in rearmost seats, but

lack of sliding doors as on B-MAX makes access tricky
Second opinion
Like the latest Mondeo, the new S-MAX has lost the
handling sparkle of its predecessor, but then its
based on the same platform as the family car, so
thats not a surprise. However, its less of an issue in
the MPV, and the S-MAX is arguably the better model.
Its comfortable, spacious and is loaded with kit,
although racking up the options on our car has
seen the price break the 36,000 barrier.
WE DONT Like the Mondeo we

ran previously, the S-MAXs satnav touchscreen picks up nger
marks a lot more easily than
systems from rival makers
Verdict
IN some ways, the S-MAX delivers the

best of the B-MAX and Mondeo in
one package. While the versatility of
a two-car garage is out of reach, the
sheer size of its cabin, the practical
seat layout, hi-tech kit and everyday
driving comfort mean thats a
compromise Im happy to make.
30 March 2016 59
Our cars
Living with a Caterham Seven
Sean Carson
Sean_Carson@dennis.co.uk
EVERY relationship has its ups and

downs, and while Im still well and
truly in the honeymoon phase with our
Caterham, a few foibles have started to
emerge rst and foremost, the roof.
With the changeable conditions of late,
the hood has been up and down like a yo-yo.
Im not usually a convertible fan, but theres
something about driving a Caterham with
the top down that connects you to the
driving experience that little bit more,
so Ive been trying to take those goodweather opportunities whenever I can.
However, when the rain inevitably comes,
putting the hood up isnt a quick operation.
You can opt for the shower cap, as its been
christened in the Auto Express ofce, which
buttons to the windscreen and straps over
the roll bar, but this leaves a big void at the
rear, so if the wind is blowing in the wrong
direction, spray still gets into the cabin.
You have to go for the full roof if you want
total weather protection, but while in most
modern convertibles its a swift, electrically
orchestrated process, in the 270S, its more
of a lengthy battle of pulling and stretching.
Caterham provides a quick start guide,
but take this with a pinch of salt the only
way to get the time down is through
experience. You have to unclip the boot
cover and fold out the roof frame, then undo
the tensioning straps so you can drape the
vinyl hood over, and x it with poppers at
the front and back. Tighten the straps
inside, and the roof can then offer decent
shielding from the elements. But, inevitably,
youre always putting it on when its
raining, so expect to get a bit damp. Plus,
when its on, the windows tend to mist up...
As a result, Ive taken to using the half
hood more frequently, as its much quicker
to attach and stow when not being used.
But, as you can see from our pictures, you
Caterham Seven
THIRD REPORT Two-seaters ddly roof is giving our man a headache
FULL ROOF
Fixing full roof in place involves

loosening straps and folding out
frame, but it gives full protection
HALF ROOF
Shower cap half roof is easier

to get up in a hurry, but leaves
Seven open to elements (below)
Seven is great to drive, and even better without roof; but 12V panel has fallen off
Caterham provides
a quick start guide
to putting the roof
up but take this
with a pinch of salt
60 30 March 2016
have to be prepared for the Sevens interior

to ll up with stones, moisture and wildlife.
On top of this, there are a few areas where
the 270s nish is suffering. Paint chips are
inevitable and disappointingly common, but
a big scuff on the black dash is very obvious.
Some of the interior glue has failed, too,
so the metal plate holding the 12V charging
socket is now drooping into the footwell.
But while this has literally taken some of
the shine off living with the Caterham,

its not affected my craving to drive it.
Once youre behind the wheel, the
270S just feels right, like an extension
of your own body. Plus, unlike some of
the more extreme, higher-powered cars
in the range, our 137bhp 1.6-litre model,
with the easier-to-live-with S pack, ows
down country roads with incredible
uidity, allowing you to savour the drive.
Second opinion
There is a solution to the ddly roof:

dont use it! With a thick coat and a pair
of waterproof trousers on, you can
enjoy the 270S whatever the weather.
Ja
James Disdale
Road test editor
Buying
uy ng cars
r
New and used buying advice
Martin
Saarinen
YOUR VIEWS ON YOUR CARS
Got any car queries?

Martin_Saarinen@dennis.co.uk
@AE_Consumer
MG3
GOOD
2015 Results
MG3 Factfile
A comfortable and easy

car to drive. Even long
distances arent an issue.
In my opinion, the MG3 is
a very good-looking car.
cruise control, USB connection, stop/start
Prices: From 5,490
91.96%
RELIABILITY
BUILD QUALITY
RUNNING COSTS
PERFORMANCE
ROAD HANDLING
RIDE QUALITY
EASE OF DRIVING
SEAT COMFORT
PRACTICALITY
IN-CAR TECH
200
NOT SO GOOD
THE MG3 steers

and handles well.
Years: 2013 to present CO2: 124g/km

Fuel economy: 51.5mpg (1.5 3 Style)
Best features: DAB radio, parking sensors,
OVERALL SCORE
th
10
PLACE
PLAC
A E
AC
YOU TELL US... Supermini handles

really well, and scores on tech, too
Bars show where model

finished out of 200 cars in
our 2015 survey. The lower
the rating the better
150
100
50
50
18
35
155
8
59
37
10
39
4
It has more interior room

and boot space than
most people assume.
The 1.5-litre engine offers
a decent amount of torque
and performance.
Motorway cruising
is excellent.
A fun car to drive, but
cheap to insure and run.
What more could you want?
IVE had clutch problems

with my car from the very
first day of ownership.
The tailgate doesnt
always latch when closing.
Im starting to hear a few
rattles. Theres a slight
squeak from the steering.
Q
A
The wheels were out

of alignment shortly
after I bought the car.
My only criticism is that
the instrument panel is
too low down and too
small to see properly.
Ive had problems with
my front suspension and
brake warning lights
staying on while driving.

Q
A
Jazz rust warranty worry

IVE been looking at buying a new Honda Jazz,
but noticed it only comes with a three-year
surface corrosion warranty. Im concerned
the car will rust. Should I be worried?
Shaun Oliver, E-mail
ALTHOUGH the surface warranty lasts
for three years, the manufacturer also
provides a 12-year structural corrosion
warranty. Honda forums do mention rust
forming on the Jazz, but remember that
surface rust build-up can be prevented by
regularly cleaning and servicing your car.
Clutch replacement query
MY friend recently had the clutch replaced on

her SEAT Ibiza. But after just 1,300 miles on
the new one, the dealer tells her she burnt it
out and needs a third one. Is this possible?
Shaun Nock, E-mail
A CLUTCH is a wear and tear item, and its
lifespan is dependent on the kind of use its
put through. However, 1,300 miles sounds
woefully premature, and we recommend
getting an independent inspection to see
whether the replacement clutch installed
was faulty before challenging this case.
XC60 start-up struggles

MY 2012 Volvo XC60 was struggling to start
up, and it took my dealer a long time to find a
trapped cable that was stopping the glow plugs
working. Have other owners experienced this?
Allan Warn, E-mail
WE looked through our Driver Power 2015
database and didnt find any mention of this
issue from owners, yet we did track down
discussions about similar problems on a few
XC60 forums. A software update on the
engine was recommended to fix the fault.
warrantywise.co.uk
30 March 2016 71
Buyingcars
Renault Clio Mk4
NEED
TO KNOW
The GT-Line model comes only in 120bhp

1.2 TCe EDC form. Its effectively a cut-price,
lower-performance Renaultsport Clio 200.
NEED
TO KNOW
Renault offers the 0.9 TCe engine with an

ECO pack to cut official fuel consumption to
65.7mpg and CO2 emissions to 99g/km.
BUYERS GUIDE: Renault Clio Mk4

FROM 6,300 Stylish, fun-to-drive supermini is a great second-hand buy
Richard Dredge
THE Renault Clio celebrates 25 years on

sale in the UK this week, and since arriving
on these shores, the stylish supermini has
become synonymous with driving fun, value
and comfort. So its no wonder its won two
separate European Car of the Year crowns.
Yet the latest, fourth generation has
never repeated the feat, even though
its easily the best version so far. With
its stylish design, efficient engines and
huge range of personalisation options,
the Clio offers something for everyone,
from the peppy and frugal 0.9 TCe petrol
and the smooth and muscular 1.5-litre
diesel to the Renaultsport 200, which
is one of the best hot hatches around.
History
THE Clio Mk4 reached UK showrooms in

February 2013 with a choice of 0.9 turbo
or 1.2-litre petrol engines, along with a
1.5 dCi diesel. And while the previous car
was offered in estate form, the Clio Mk4
comes only as a hatchback. Initially, there
72 30 March 2016
were Expression, Expression+, Dynamique

MediaNav and Dynamique S MediaNav
trims only, although in June 2013 a GT-Line
specification was launched alongside the
197bhp Clio Renaultsport 200 Turbo.
The following October, an EDC dualclutch automatic gearbox was introduced
on the diesel. And then in January 2015,
the optional GT-Line Look Pack brought
sporty details for Dynamique models.
Revisions in November 2015 saw the
Expression+ trim renamed Play; at the same
time, a DAB radio became standard on all
cars featuring the R-Link multimedia system.
Which one?
THE 0.9-litre petrol is much perkier than

the 1.2-litre, and although this smaller and
more modern engine will set you back an
extra 200-400, its worth the premium.
The diesel is a great engine, too, as its
muscular, smooth and economical.
All examples come with Bluetooth,
electric front windows and central locking.
Expression+ adds air-con and alloy wheels,
while Dynamique MediaNav also has

a seven-inch multimedia touchscreen
and electrically adjustable door mirrors.
On top of all this, the range-topping
Dynamique S MediaNav features climate
control, electric rear windows, rear parking
sensors and power-folding door mirrors. Not
many options are offered on the Expression;
on the Dynamique, a glass roof, heated seats
and a rear parking camera are available.
Alternatives
IF you want a lot of car for your money,

look no further than the Vauxhall Corsa;
its an excellent all-rounder. Another greatvalue car is the Peugeot 208, which
is streets ahead of the old 207.
Fords Fiesta is dated, but still superb to
drive, top value and in plentiful supply. While
the Toyota Yaris and Volkswagen Polo cost
more than the Renault, they offer strong

reliability and efficiency. The Mazda 2 is
often overlooked, but worth consideration,
while Skodas Fabia is another talented rival
as its reliable and has some great engines.
Verdict
THE Clio Mk4 was a turning point for Renault

in terms of space, efficiency and equipment,
while the finish also appeared to take a leap
forward. Now the first cars are three years
old, its clear Renault has made great strides
on build quality and reliability, even if it still
isnt quite setting the standard in these areas.
Entry-level models are best avoided due
to their sparse kit lists; even flagships arent
as well equipped as some rivals, although
theyre far from spartan. What will matter
most to many people, though, is that the Clio
still represents great value as a used buy.
With stylish design, efficient engines and scope for

personalisation, Clio offers something for everyone
Renault Clio Mk4
Unlike with previous

Clios, theres no threedoor option. Even the
sporty models come
with five doors.
0.9 TCe Expression+

0.9 TCe Dynamique
1.2 Expression+
1.2 Dynamique
Renaultsport 200
1.5 dCi Expression+
1.5 dCi Dynamique
THE ot
other low point on
the Dr
Driver Power score
she
sheet came in the
perfor
performance category.
It
Its worth taking a
tes
test drive to make
sure ttheres enough
power on offer for you.
imperialcarsupermarkets.co.uk
64
63
13
2014
2014
2013
9,550
10,250
9,150
9,875
15,295
10,650
11,550
8,550
9,195
8,195
8,850
13,695
9,575
10,395
7,950
8,525
7,650
8,195
12,695
8,925
9,675
7,275
7,795
6,995
7,525
11,650
8,195
8,875
6,550
6,995
6,325
6,775
10,450
7,450
7,995
Doors
UNLIKE previous
versions of the Clio,
the Mk4 has only ever
been sold as a fivedoor hatch. However,
the hidden door
handles make it look
like a three-door.
Running costs
Fuel
economy
CO2
emissions
Annual
road tax
62mpg
65mpg
51mpg
83mpg
88mpg
76mpg
44mpg
104g/km
99g/km
127g/km
90g/km
83g/km
95g/km
144g/km
20
0
110
0
0
0
145
Model
0.9 TCe
0.9 TCe ECO
1.2 16v
1.5 dCi
1.5 dCi ECO
1.5 dCi auto
Renaultsport 200
THE standard built-in

sat-nav doesnt allow
you to carry out a full
postcode search, but it
can be upgraded for
less than 5. The
trouble is, this is a
fiddly process.
Performance
Running costs
CO2/tax
0-62mph/top speed
62mpg (0.9 TCe 90)
104g/km
12.2 seconds/113mph
46
20
9-10
9-10
4-8
12-13
12-13
11-13
29
ALL Clios need to be serviced every two years or 18,000

miles. Expect to pay 149 for the first check; after this,
services alternate between minor and major, at 169
and 269 respectively. On top of this, the brake fluid
needs replacing every three years (at 45), with fresh
coolant needed every five years or 90,000 miles (at 89).
While the TCe engines are chain-driven, the dCi and
1.2 16v units have a timing belt which must be replaced
every six years (for 399). The mileage limit is 90,000
on the dCi; the petrol unit cuts this to 72,000 miles.
An air-con service every two years is priced at 79.
Partwatch
www.autoexpress.co.uk/driverpower
Front brake pads (axle set)

Front brake discs (pair)
Door mirror glass (electric)
Front wiper set
HAVING debuted in 38th in our Driver

Power 2014 satisfaction survey, the Clio
fell to 70th last year, largely because of
owners criticisms around apparent
build and reliability issues. Performance
got another thumbs down, but running
costs (31st), handling (52nd) and ride
quality (64th) were rated highly.
SIMON Shepley from Oxford owns a
2014 Clio 0.9 TCe. This is my third
Clio and the best so far, he told us.
The engine is brilliant peppy but
economical while its fun to drive.
The cabin is really spacious and it
feels better built than its predecessors.
Its been utterly reliable, too, which
is why one day Ill buy a fourth.
Independent price
50.10
111.20
37
33.10
23.99
74.98
21.99
13.98
Part
OUR VIEW
YOUR VIEW
Dealer price
Prices for a 2013 Clio 0.9 TCe. Dealer figures supplied by

Fish Brothers, Swindon, Wilts (www.fish-bros.co.uk).
Independent prices from (www.eurocarparts.com).
Recalls
Interior
THE Clios cabin has a stylish

design and generally features
high-quality plastics. Some cars
get the R-Link multimedia system,
which works brilliantly, and theres
loads of space. Boot capacity is
good as well: its bigger than most,
at 300 litres; fold the back seats
and it increases to 1,146 litres.
Contacts
Official
www.renault.co.uk
Forums
www.clioiv.com
www.cliosport.net
http://cliotrophy.co.uk
www.renaultforums.co.uk
www.renaultsport.co.uk/forum/
THE Clio Mk4 has been recalled twice so far, both over
possible braking glitches. The first campaign launched in
August 2014, aimed at Clios built from November 2012
to July 2014. These could suffer from brake fluid leaks
because of the front hoses chafing and wearing through.
The most recent action, in July 2015, involved models
made from March 2013 to April 2015. It was the same
problem again, and nearly 50,000 cars were caught up in
this recall; over 20,000 models were affected by the first.
30 March 2016 73
Insurance group
Contact 023 8098 6917
15
2015
THERE arent many entry-level Expression or Expression+

cars available; most are Dynamiques. Just 6,500 buys a
40,000-mile 2013 Clio 1.2 Dynamique; an extra 1,000
secures a 25,000-mile 0.9 TCe Dynamique on a 13-plate.
A third of the Clios on sale are diesels; prices start at
7,000 for a 40,000-mile 13-plate 1.5 dCi Expression+,
with a 25,000-mile 63-plate (2014) 1.5 dCi Dynamique S
MediaNav yours for 8,000. Around one in four Clio Mk4s
has an auto; most are priced at over 11,000; the odd car
is available for less. The cheapest Renaultsports are
12,000, with most priced at 13,500 or more.
Sat-nav
Thanks to Imperial Car

Supermarkets in Hampshire for
the loan of the Clio pictured.
65
2016
Model
Pe
Performance
NEED
TO KNOW
How much?
Values courtesy of Glasss Guide
Tom Wood
Bu
Build quality
THE Cl
Clio is constructed
to a h
higher standard
tha
than ever, although
build quality was still
one of the weaknesses
in the cars showing in
our Dr
Driver Power 2015
sat
satisfaction survey.
Buyingcars
Buyingcars
Class-toppers
TOP FIVE Fast family cars
Best buys We pick the best options for parents wanting decent practicality and driving thrills
Mercedes-AMG C 63 Estate
Years: 2015 to date Engine: 4.0-litre V8, 469bhp

0-62mph: 4.2 seconds Economy/CO2: 33.6mpg/196g/km
st
NON
MOVER
WHY? The Mercedes-AMG C 63 Estate is the ultimate fast family car, combining supercar pace
from its 4.0-litre V8 with space for the kids and the dog. Handling is engaging and cabin quality
is top-notch, while the boot is huge. As a complete package, the C 63 is one of the most impressive
cars on the market, even before you consider the brilliant twin-turbo engine. Just like the saloon,
the Estate features sporty suspension and quick steering for an entertaining driving experience.
Its more expensive than Audis RS4 Avant, but if any car was ever worth over 60,000, this is it.
From 61,260 (new)
SEAT Leon Cupra 290
Years: 2016 to date Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl, 286bhp

nd
NEW
ENTRY
3rd
FALLER
WHY? A recent replacement for the 280 model, the SEAT Leon Cupra 290 gets more power and
torque than before, plus a few styling tweaks. Its subtle looks hide an impressive hot hatch, with
286bhp that gives plenty of pace for the front-wheel-drive chassis to make the most of. Theres a
choice of three-door SC (left), five-door and ST estate versions, all packed with kit at a keen price.
From 28,675 (new)
Volkswagen Golf GTI

WHY? The Volkswagen Golf GTI has been a staple fast family car for decades, and the current
model is still one of our favourite all-rounders. The 217bhp engine provides strong performance,
but its the impressive handling, engaging steering and grippy front-wheel-drive chassis that
we really love. Its practical as well, and the comfortable ride is welcome on long journeys.
From 27,435 (new)
4
th
FALLER
Porsche Macan Turbo
Years: 2014 to date Engine: 3.6-litre V6, 394bhp

WHY? If youre after a sporty SUV, the Porsche Macan Turbo wont disappoint. It combines
the image, comfort and practicality of a high-riding SUV with the driving dynamics of a sports
car. The cabin feels well built and luxurious, and its quiet inside when youre not pushing it
to its limit. The boot is big and usable, too, although rear legroom is best suited to children.
From 62,540 (new)
5th
FALLER
Alpina D3 Touring

WHY? Those wanting a fast family car without a thirsty petrol engine under the bonnet should
look no further than the Alpina D3. Its 3.0-litre diesel claims 52.3mpg economy without sacrificing
performance, and with its sharp and responsive chassis, the BMW 3 Series-based D3 is great
to drive as well. In Touring form, it offers a 495-litre boot, plus theres a long list of standard kit.
From 49,950 (new)

For more of our top cars, visit autoexpress.co.uk/best-cars
74 30 March 2016
Buyingcars
Used twin test
Living on the edge
These roadsters serve up extreme open-air driving thrills, but which is the better second-hand buy?
With 345bhp,
open-top Exige
is incredibly fast
Boxster S blends
power, fun and
creature comforts
Exige S
Boxster S
28.0mpg (on test)
32.1mpg (official)
42 fill-up
66 fill-up
Porsche Boxster S manual
Lotus Exige S Roadster
Years: 2012 to date Engine: 3.4-litre flat-six, 315bhp

Insurance group: 45 Econ/CO2: 32mpg/206g/km
Why? Boxster S offers the best of both worlds you
can cruise in comfort, yet its also huge fun to drive.
Prices from:
29,000
ITS difficult to ignore the appeal of the Porsche

Boxster if youre in the market for a drop-top
sports car. The current 981 generation delivers
more power, improved looks and more creature
comforts than the original, plus a sparkling
drive and its about to get even cheaper with
the imminent arrival of the new 718 Boxster.
The Boxster S trails the Lotus on pace, but
its hardly slow, while the delicate, involving
handling and firm but not uncomfortable ride
make it fun and usable every day. The flat-six
also sounds great and claims up to 30mpg.
Inside, the Porsche is a world away from the
sparse Exige, with comfortable leather sports
seats and, depending on spec, loads of kit. Two
adults have plenty of space, and the front and
rear boots offer a useful total load capacity of
280 litres. The powered hood folds quickly, too.
While the Boxster finished a disappointing
141st in our Driver Power 2015 satisfaction
survey, owners praised its driving experience.
Parts are pricey, so wed invest in a warranty.
76 30 March 2016

Insurance group: 50 Econ/CO2: 28mpg/236g/km
Why? Hardcore Lotus serves up an immersive driving
experience, although it demands compromises.
Prices from:
S spec brings decent level of

kit, including leather; Porsche
is really involving to drive
Porsche Boxster S
THERES a reason the Boxster is a

popular sports car, as its such a
complete package. Its also much
cheaper to buy second-hand than
the Lotus, and that makes picking
the Porsche an easy decision.
Stripped-out interior adds to the

Lotus hardcore feel, and the car
is amazingly precise in corners
Lotus Exige S
ON a track, and to diehard

enthusiasts, the Exige S will
undoubtedly appeal. Its fun in
isolation, but next to the Boxster it
looks a costly, sparsely equipped
and impractical used purchase.
43,000
LOTUS chopped the roof off its Exige in 2013

to create the Roadster, but as is clear from
the styling this didnt dampen its sports car
appeal. Its one of the most hardcore road-legal
cars around, with a 345bhp supercharged V6
and a light kerbweight making it scorchingly
fast even compared with the Porsche.
On a track it provides a raw and visceral
driving experience; the trouble is, there are
compromises on the road. Even though the ride
is more comfortable than youd expect, tyre
and wind noise are excessive, and the steering
is extremely heavy. Plus, the cabin is a major
letdown; not only is it sparsely equipped, it
has a poor-quality finish, while practicality is
limited, too. As a result, the Lotus isnt as easy
to live with or use every day as the Porsche.
The Exige is much more rare than its rival
here, so it didnt feature in Driver Power 2015,
although Lotus doesnt have a great reliability
record. However, because the car is so simple
mechanically, there isnt much to go wrong.
Sport
All the action from the world of motorsport
Wraps off 2016 WEC contenders
Porsche evolves title winner

Big changes for Audi, Toyota
Audi R18 diesel hybrid racer

now uses battery rather
than flywheel tech
Stephen Errity
Stephen_Errity@dennis.co.uk
AUDI, Porsche and Toyota have all

launched their contenders for the
2016 World Endurance Championship
(WEC) and Le Mans 24 Hours during the
series official pre-season testing at the
Paul Ricard circuit in the south of France.
All three cars will generate a higher
proportion of their overall power output
from the electric element of their hybrid
drivetrains, with the power of the petrol
and diesel engines decreasing in turn.
Reigning world champion outfit Porsche
has tweaked the livery of its 919 Hybrid,
as well as developing three different aero
packages (the maximum permitted by the
rules) to suit the tracks visited by the WEC.
Previously, it had only developed high
and low-downforce versions of the car.
The basic chassis and turbocharged V4
petrol hybrid engine have been retained,
with efficiency improved, while the 919s
will carry the #1 and #2 numbers to denote
Porsches status as defending champion.
For its part, Audi says that despite
looking quite similar to the 2015 car, the
2016 version of its R18 racer has been
redesigned from scratch and has almost
nothing in common with its predecessor.
Audi has moved from the 4MJ to the 6MJ
hybrid power category and says this R18
is 10 per cent more efficient than before.
It features more radical aerodynamics,
while its hybrid system uses a battery, not
a flywheel as in previous years. The cars
V6 TDI diesel engine has also been revised.
Toyota, meanwhile, has also gone back
to the drawing board for this season, after
Audi says 2016 version

of its R18 racer has been
redesigned from scratch
RACING
RIVALS
Porsche (left)
has improved
title-winning
2015 car, while
Toyota TS050
(right) has new
twin-turbo V6
a disappointing 2015 campaign saw the

Japanese brands cars well off the pace
of Porsche and Audis efforts. For the new
TS050, last seasons naturally aspirated
V8 petrol has been ditched in favour of
a 2.4-litre twin-turbocharged V6 and a

move up to the top 8MJ hybrid category.
The teams technical director Pascal
Vasselon said: This year, we want to be
competitive. That is the minimum target
Drivers unite to slam F1 leadership

FORMULA One drivers have released a joint
statement ahead of this weekends Bahrain
race, heavily criticising F1s leadership and
decision-making processes in the wake of
the Australian GP qualifying fiasco.
The open letter, issued on behalf of
all current drivers by Grand Prix Drivers
Association (GPDA) directors Jenson
Button, Sebastian Vettel and Alex Wurz,
reads: We feel that some recent rule
changes are disruptive, do not address
the bigger issues our sport is facing and
in some cases could jeopardise its success.
We have come to the conclusion that
the decision-making process is obsolete
and ill-structured and prevents progress.
We urge the owners and stakeholders of F1
to consider restructuring its governance.
88 30 March 2016
GPDAs Button
(left) and
Vettel signed
critical letter
weve set ourselves, to be back in the game

and competitive with Audi and Porsche.
All three cars will be in action at the
opening WEC race, which takes place at
Silverstone, Northants on Sunday 17 April.
NSX racer breaks

cover at NY show
HONDAS N
North American luxury brand
Acura has unveiled a GT3 racing version
of the NSX a
at the New York Motor Show.
GT3 regul
regulations demand the race
car does wit
without the roadgoing NSXs
four-whee
four-wheel drive and hybrid drivetrain,
but it retai
retains the twin-turbo V6 engine.
Its expe
expected to race in the US before
the end o
of the year, most likely in the
Pirelli Worl
World Challenge series, with cars
being offere
offered to customer teams around
the world ahead of the 2018 season.
THE
EFFECT
The new health & fitness magazine
Free every wednesday

Find out where at coachmag.co.uk
fitter+healthier+happier
#coacheffect
IF the worlds top ve motor

manufacturing groups arent feeling
a tad embarrassed right now, they should.
Toyota, VW Group, GM, Renault-Nissan
and Hyundai-Kia have the cash, capacity
and clout to go to war with each other, in
a ght to get the most fuel-efcient internal
combustion engine car brought to market.
Yet, deliberately or otherwise, theyve
failed to do this. In terms of whats on sale
to motorists in Britain, its been left to a
comparatively small, modest, cash-strapped
rm to design and build such a product.
Of course, its a diesel. Of course, its
French (cars from France tend to be better
in real-world conditions). And, of course,
Motorings most outspoken and
its purchase and running costs represent
opinionated columnist sounds off
astonishingly good value for money.
The icing on the cake is that the worlds
VWs derv debacle
most efcient internal combustion car is no
puny-engined city runabout, but a ve-seater
seriously harmed
family car powered by a gutsy 1.6-litre.
the case for diesel
I found myself in the Peugeot 208
cars. Now Peugeot
BlueHDi 75 for the rst time the other
may have started
afternoon when I needed to get from trafcto fix the damage
choked London to the south coast, where
I spent the weekend. The capitals road
network was its usual hopeless self sabotaged by roadworks that
hinder rather than help. The A and M roads were free-owing, although
as I reached the coastal resort, the streets became surprisingly busy.
Despite the fact that I drove normally (the last thing on my mind was
to pedal along as if on an economy run), the 208s trip computer assured
me that Id managed something Ive never done before breaking
through the 75mpg barrier. Without even trying! Had I made more of an
effort, I reckon I could have upped my 76.3mpg gure to nearer 85mpg.
During my brief spell with the car, it was apparent to me that
Peugeots ofcial gure of 94.2mpg (combined) isnt too far from
the real-world truth, along with an achievable range of over 1,000
miles per tank, plus diesel fuel costs of around just 5p a mile.
Six months ago, when Volkswagens derv debacle was uncovered, the
German giant seriously harmed the case for diesel-powered cars. With
the 1.6 BlueHDi 75, though, Peugeot may have started to x the damage.
Now, it looks on course to be the rst rm to design, build and deliver
what weve been hoping and expecting for decades the rst diesel
family car thats genuinely capable of breaking the 100mpg barrier.
Mike
Rutherford
Do you agree with Mike?
Have your say at facebook.com/autoexpress
@The_Rutherford

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30 Mar-5 Apr 2016

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