To meet strong demand for the popular Mazda6 from both retail and fleet customers, Mazda Motors UK is bringing forward the ‘on sale’ date for the upgraded new model, the Mazda6 models for 2010. The new 19-strong range features refreshed exterior and interior styling, additional equipment and a range of significant technical enhancements that improve fuel economy by up to 6.4 percent and reduced CO2 emissions by up to 6.1 percent.

Customers will be offered a choice of two body styles** (hatchback and estate), six engines (three petrol and three diesel) and four equipment levels – S, TS, TS2, and Sport. Improved fuel economy, lower Road Fund Licence bands and reduced Benefit In Kind costs offer buyers significant savings while prices for the new Mazda6 are increased by an average of just 4.8 percent ranging from £16,990 to £23,445 on-the-road.

Mark Cameron, Sales and Marketing Director, Mazda UK said:

“Distinctive styling has always given the Mazda6 ‘stand-out’ looks from other family cars and the refreshed model has an even more sophisticated appearance,” he added:

“Dynamic and engaging driving characteristics have also played a big part in the success of Mazda6 and they remain at the heart of the upgraded model.”

“The upgraded Mazda6 has been given a make-over that is much more than a cosmetic exercise. While the car has more aggressive front styling, the engines, suspension and steering have been fine-tuned enhancing the refinement of the driving experience. Mazda6 remains among the best-in-class for CO2 emissions and its ownership experience is underpinned by reduced costs and Mazda’s outstanding build quality and reliability,”

Retuned engines deliver reduced CO2 emissions

A new 2-litre DISI petrol engine delivers 155ps (up from 147ps), while the lower power 2.2-litre diesel generates more power and torque – up 4ps to 129ps and up 20Nm to 340Nm at 1,800rpm. The highest power 2.2-litre diesel now produces 180ps (down 5ps) but modifications to the turbocharger boost torque delivery whilst facilitating improvements in fuel economy and CO2 emissions which therefore sees it retaining its overall excellence in performance.

A Sport 2.0-litre petrol model with Mazda’s five-speed automatic transmission is introduced after dealers reported a latent demand for a top-of-the-range model with this specification.

The upgraded Mazda6 achieves fuel economy average improvements of 3.2 and 4.1 percent (petrol/diesel) and CO2 emissions reductions that average 4.4 and 4.8 percent (petrol/diesel), so the lower power 2.2-litre, 129ps diesel hatchback now has a rating of just 138g/km. These improvements move many models into a lower RFL band. All new Mazda6 models now meet Euro5 emission standards***.

Four, highly specified equipment levels

Although Mazda is keeping the upgraded Mazda6 range as simple as possible, buyers will continue to be offered a broad choice of powertrains and specifications, with each of the four equipment levels – S, TS, TS2, and Sport – highly specified within its price band.

Upgraded equipment for the new Mazda6 encompasses ‘smart’ turn indicators and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) for the ‘S’ grade and all other models. Additional items moving up the range include: rear spoiler (TS upwards), front & rear parking sensors and Hill Hold Assist (HHA), (TS2 upwards), and swivel-type AFS front lights (Sport).

Full leather trim is now available as an option on all TS2 and Sport models and includes powered driver and front passenger seats with a memory function on the driver’s seat.

*On sale date…
Although the official ‘on sale’ date for the upgraded new Mazda6 range is 1 April, petrol models will be in dealer showrooms from mid-March and diesel models will arrive during May.

**Range rationalisation
The Mazda6 saloon body style and the Sports Luxury derivative are no longer available in the UK.

*** 1.8-litre models are EC Stage V from June 2010 production onward.

Audi presents their new car, the A8 hybrid as a technology concept at the Geneva Motor Show. Its two engines – a 2.0 TFSI and an electric power unit – develop a combined total of 245PS and deliver 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft) of torque, enabling them to provide the confident driving performance of a large six-cylinder engine. And combined with the advantages of electric power, the consistent downsizing from current used Audi A8s also pays substantial benefits in fuel economy – up to 45.6mpg is possible, corresponding to a CO2 value of 144 grams per km.

Power like a big V6, fuel economy like a modest four-cylinder unit – Audi presents the A8 hybrid as a technology concept at the Geneva Motor Show. Its two propulsion units – a 2.0 TFSI and an electric motor – develop a total output of 245PS of system power and 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the Audi A8 hybrid to accelerate in 7.6 seconds from zero to 62mph and to achieve a top speed of 146mph. Yet average economy amounts to up to 45.6mpg – the CO2 equivalent is 144 grams per km.

Driving experience

The Audi A8 hybrid, which weighs 1,885 kilograms (4,155.71 lb), drives as if it had a big six-cylinder gasoline engine or a TDI under its bonnet. From zero to 62mph the vehicle accelerates in 7.6 seconds, and it can continue to accelerate up to 146mph. Yet fuel economy of up to 45.6mpg is possible, corresponding to 144 grams CO2/km (231.75 g/mile). In city traffic, the hybrid drive uses about 20 percent less fuel than a conventional drive. Both the car’s performance and its fuel economy benefit substantially from a major advantage of the A8 model series – its lightweight aluminum body based on the Audi Space Frame principle (ASF).

The hybrid drive is designed for fully electric-powered driving up to 40mph and for a distance exceeding two kilometers – especially well-suited for driving in the city or residential suburbs. When conditions permit, the driver can also select the electric mode by actuating a separate e-key in the cockpit. Both the display screen of the instrument cluster and the large monitor of the MMI operating system on the dashboard present all momentary power flows in brilliant graphics.

When the Audi A8 hybrid starts moving, both of its engines interoperate closely to suit varying power demands. Above 40mph the combustion engine alone does all the propulsive work, while the electric motor supplies onboard users and recharges the battery.

When the driver lets up on the gas, the combustion engine is disconnected from the drivetrain, so the Audi A8 hybrid ”coasts”. In braking and slow-down phases, the e-motor functions as a generator – recuperating energy efficiently and feeding it into the battery.

When the driver floors the pedal, the engine management temporarily controls the entire system power, and now the electric motor is boosting power. 245PS and 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft) endow the big saloon with enormous thrust. The intermediate sprint between 37mph and 75mph in fifth gear for instance is accomplished in 7.5 seconds. The Audi A8 hybrid is an extremely dynamic car – with a fuel efficiency that is setting new standards. This is especially true in everyday user activities. Even its looks betray the power of this near-production concept car with its big 21-inch wheels and their 265/35 tyres.

The design of the Audi A8 hybrid

This near-production concept car has 21-inch, two-colour wheel rims styled with highly three-dimensional surface areas. The exterior paint job of the A8 hybrid is in “Prism Silver” with “Spectra Flair” as an accent colour – a rainbow effect that’s accentuated in reflected light along creases and seams on the body. The prominently located “hybrid” lettering on both front wings leaves no doubt about what kind of car this is. The accentuation of its width by a prominent low horizontal spoiler edge and a chrome strip conveys the vehicle’s solid stance on the road.

The engine compartment cover with its high-gloss finish and the glass cover of the battery in the boot also provide visual links to hybrid technology. And the illuminated doorsteps bear the “hybrid” insignia as an elegant touch to underscore the electric aspect whenever the doors are opened – using LED technology to minimize energy consumption.

The passengers also see the prominent hybrid logo displayed on the dashboard. The “Powermeter” in addition shows the energy flow in the instrument cluster.

The all-new Volkswagen Sharan has made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Based on an advanced new platform and featuring twin sliding doors, a seven seat configuration and a range of frugal yet powerful petrol and diesel engines, the Sharan is set to establish new standards of efficiency, practicality and refinement in its class.

At 4,854 mm in length, the new Volkswagen Sharan is 220 mm longer than the model it replaces, 92 mm wider and 12 mm lower. Despite these gains the new Sharan weighs 30 kg less than the previous used Sharan.

Access to the rear seats in the new Sharan is granted via a pair of large sliding doors that can, along with the tailgate, be specified with electric motors to operate automatically. The centre row features three individual seats that can be moved by up to 160 mm back and forth if required and, when not in use, can be folded to create a flat loadspace.

The third row of seats is made easy to access through the ability of the centre row of seats to slide and pivot forwards by 20 degrees. As a result of a wheelbase extended by 75 mm over the outgoing model, the new Sharan’s third row of seats is large enough to accommodate adults as well as children. As with the second row of seats, they can also be folded flat into the floor when not required.

At the heart of the new Sharan is a range of four advanced TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines linked to six-speed manual or DSG gearboxes. A 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine developing 150 PS while returning 38.1 mpg and emitting 172 g/km of CO2 is joined by a 2.0-litre unit which is mated to a standard DSG gearbox and produces 200 PS. This engine emits 201 g/km of CO2 while returning 32.8 mpg.

The diesel range comprises two 2.0-litre common rail engines producing 140 and 170 PS. In 2.0-litre TDI 140 PS form the Sharan returns 52.3 mpg while emitting 143 g/km of CO2 to make it one of the most efficient vehicles in its class. The 170 PS model emits 152 g/km of CO2 and has a combined economy figure of 49.5 mpg. To further improve efficiency, all models except the 200 PS variant feature Stop-Start and regenerative braking systems as standard.

The new Sharan is the most advanced people carrier Volkswagen has ever produced. Available as an option for the first time on the Sharan is the Adaptive Chassis Control (ACC) system featuring electronically controlled pneumatic dampers with three selectable stages – normal, comfort and sport. In addition, a new version of Park Assist makes its debut on the Sharan. The system is now capable of guiding the vehicle into parking spaces at right angles with the direction of traffic as well as parallel spaces.

Following its international debut in Geneva the new Sharan will go on sale in the UK later this year with prices and specifications due to be announced.

Fiat Group Automobiles UK have annouced pricing for their new car, the Fiat Doblò range.

Launched nine years ago, the Doblo is best known for its combination of space, versatility and practicality. The all-new Doblo – just three per cent of components are carried over from the out-going model – has been designed specifically for ever-more demanding customers and their families.

The new car is more spacious, more comfortable, even safer, superior to drive and better equipped. With a starting price of £12,295 OTR for the 1.4 16v 95 Active, the new Doblo range represents outstanding value for money. Among the equipment that entry-level cars receive as standard are ESP with Hill Holder; driver, front passenger and side airbags; electric windows, radio/CD player, remote central locking and body-coloured door mirrors with repeater flashers.

Prices rise through three trim levels – Active, Dynamic and Eleganza – to £17,145 OTR for the 2.0 16v MultiJet 135 Eleganza. That price includes as standard, electric rear windows, front foglights, leather steering wheel and gear knob, 16-inch alloy wheels, rigid parcel shelf and Blue&Me, Fiat’s hands-free infotainment system.

A full range of options include automatic climate control with rear distribution, cruise control, rear parking sensors, anti-whiplash front headrests and dark tinted rear windows, while different Option Packs are also available.

These include the Family Pack (seven seats, longitudinal roof bars, opening rear windows), Style Pack (dark tinted rear windows, 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights) and Blue & Sound Pack (audio controls on steering wheel, Blue&Me, leather steering wheel and gear lever, radio with CD and MP3, provision for Blue&Me TomTom satellite navigation).

Available with a choice of three Euro 5-specification engines – a 1.4-litre 16v 95bhp petrol unit and two MultiJet 16v turbo diesels – 1.6 (105bhp), and 2.0 (135bhp) – all cars feature Start&Stop and Gear Shift Indicator as standard. “Following on from a predecessor that has enjoyed nearly a decade of success is no easy task,” says Andrew Humberstone, managing director, Fiat Group Automobiles UK and Ireland. “However, the new Doblo manages to do just that.

“An almost-total renewal, of chassis, bodywork, suspension, engines and technology, all delivered in a modern, appealing manner, makes new Doblo a serious contender among families or anyone who requires roominess and versatility.”

Prices (OTR) for new Doblo are as follows:

Vauxhall’s power events unleash VXR muscle for 2010 Luton – 1000PS.

That’s the total horsepower-count in the current VXR range. And this year Vauxhall will be giving both drivers of new and used Vauxhall VXR customers the chance to fully exploit a VXR’s performance in a fresh and unique series of activities, known as the 2010 VXR Power Events.

Running from April through to August, VXR Power Events will provide a fantastic opportunity for VXR enthusiasts and owners to show off their driving skills in a variety of track challenges and road trips which demonstrate the strength and breadth of the VXR product line-up.

Andy Gilson, Vauxhall’s Marketing Director said:

“VXR continues to be a key component of the Vauxhall brand,” he added

“With VX Racing’s BTCC campaign now finished, it’s important that we continue to reinforce the success and excellence of our VXR models, and engage both existing and prospective customers at activities like these.”

VXR Power Events comprise the following activities: Rollercoaster Challenge Few activities are as unique as Vauxhall’s Rollercoaster Challenge, which takes place this May. An audacious challenge, it lays down the gauntlet for VXR owners to drive to, and ride on, the UK’s top adrenaline rollercoasters – Thorpe Park, Alton Towers and Blackpool. The event starts from either Blackpool or Thorpe Park and then moves to Alton Towersfor the final rollercoaster ride and BBQ.

VXR Track Days Building on the success of last year’s VXR Track Days, this season’s open-to-all events will add more track time for drivers and more venues too. Vauxhall will also be bringing along its full range of VXR cars. VXR Sprint Nights Spread across five airfield venues, the VXR Sprint Nights will give drivers the opportunity to take part in a timed 0-60 & quarter-mile challenge and to set the fastest time on a specially designed autotest course – the ultimate arena in which to test your driving skills. Vauxhall will supply the cars for each activity, while VXR owners will have the chance to put their own cars to the test in the 0-60 and quarter-mile challenges.

VXR Karting Challenges Includes exciting on-track battles with a calendar of team endurance racing, the fastest teams going through to a Grand Final and VXR glory. Epic road trips to Nürburgring and Le Mans One-off events this season include joining the works-supported OPC Team at the prestigious 24 hour Nürburgring endurance race, a weekend at the legendary Le Mans 24-hourrace, and a full-on petrolheads’ road trip to the Nürburgring circuit.

VXR Power Festival The season’s grand finale will take place at Silverstone Circuit throughout the August Bank Holiday weekend. Up to 4000 people are expected to attend, along with some of the fastest Vauxhalls ever produced. Activities will include timed acceleration runs for owners, the final of the season’s karting championship, live entertainment and much, much more.