KIA Mohave goes on sale in South Korea

KIA's first body-on-frame SUV went on sale in its home market on 4th January. The Mohave will be wearing its very own badge in South Korea while oversea's markets will receive the KIA badging.

The Mohave is to shift 20,000 units a year in its home market and 60,000 units in other markets. In the U.S, the Borrego is set to take on the likes of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ford Explorer.

Under the hood, a series of V6's and V8's will be offered depending on the market. A 3.0-litre V6 diesel, the second-generation 3.8-litre V6 gasoline and newly-developed 4.6-litre V8 Hyundai Tau engine will be on offer, with the latter unit expected to be de-tuned to produce greater torque and power of 333 hp.

The Borrego will debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 13th and is set to launch in the U.S market in late spring/early summer.

The Borrego could even find its way onto British shores providing there is a positive response. One engine will be available and its likely to be the 3.0 V6 diesel. Prices could start at £30,000.

KIA Mohave/Borrego leaked ahead of Detroit

New Car: 2009 KIA Mohave/Borrego

Teaser: 2009 KIA Mohave/Borrego

KIA Mohave/Borrego caught hot-weather testing

KIA Mohave/Borrego caught cold-weather testing

KIA Mohave/Borrego caught hot-weather testing

New Car: 2008 Citroen C8 facelift

Building on the commercial success of its compact MPV range, recently bolstered by the C4 Picasso and Grand C4 Picasso, Citroën is continuing to develop models with spacious interiors by combining elegance and driving pleasure in its top-end C8 MPV.

Depending on the country, from the start of 2008 the C8 will be restyled inside and out, making its decidedly modern lines even more dynamic and enhancing the luxury of the cabin.

At the same time the C8 range will be extended, in some countries, with a new HDi diesel engine developing 173 bhp DIN (125 kW or 170 bhp EC), complete with a particulate filter (DPFS) and mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. In the course of 2008, the engine will also be available in some countries with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The new engine completes a range comprising a 2-litre 143 bhp 16V petrol injection engine available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic gearbox, and two diesel engines, the HDi 120 and the HDI 138 DPFS, both with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Already available on the C5 and C6, the HDi 173 DPFS is the flagship of Citroën’s range of 4-cylinder HDi engines. A number of innovative features (double parallel sequential turbo and new combustion and injection systems) provide outstanding driving pleasure by offering maximum torque of 273 lb/ft at a low 1,500 rpm. To complete the upgrade, Citroën has made changes to the running gear and brakes.

Finally, in addition to the new engine launch, new comfort equipment and driving aids have been added to the already richly equipped C8 range.

Singular silhouette and roomy interior:

Updated, prestige styling:

With its powerful and dynamic styling, the C8 stands out at first glance. The MPV features style changes that strengthen its top-range positioning and consolidate Citroën’s position in the large MPV segment.

The C8 front end features new, enlarged chevron motifs in the centre of tauter radiator grill lines, featuring small chrome bars stressing the vehicle's statue-like elegance. The grille rim, with its more pronounced lines, provides the perfect junction with the bonnet and the headlights, taking perceived quality to new heights.

The top-range appearance of the MPV is also reflected in new chrome door handles and painted body protectors with a chrome strip at front and rear. As though echoing the front end, the rear chevrons are more imposing than before, clearly denoting that the MPV forms an integral part of the Citroën range. Finally, the reversing lights are translucent.

A new interior that says "top of the range":

The restyling of the C8 cockpit is in keeping with the exterior style changes. They stress the MPV's top-of-the-range position and ensure a refined onboard atmosphere.

All the door wood trims, the steering wheel, the carpet, the mats and the upper dashboard arch are now black. The main contact parts (stowage compartments in front doors, glove box handle, air vent thumbwheels…) have been treated in soft paint for a more pleasant feel. Lastly, the top-range positioning of the C8 cabin is underlined by the use of a brilliant chrome finish on the door handles, gear lever and air vent cursors.

Roomy and versatile interior:

All the changes made inside the C8 stress the space and comfort on board. With a 2.82 m wheelbase, the C8 meets the requirements of top-range MPV clients who want a truly spacious interior.

The design of the seats is a perfect illustration of the model's versatility and stresses that all passengers are treated equally in terms of individualised comfort. The C8 can seat up to eight people on three rows of identical seats. Furthermore, the highly modular approach to seating means the luggage compartment can vary in size from 225 litres to 2,948 litres depending on the needs of the moment. This large volume, the width of at least 1,153 mm between the wheel arches, and the interior height are extremely practical.

Lastly, the cabin is particularly welcoming thanks to the electric sliding side doors which ensure easy boarding in all circumstances, even if the MPV is parked close to a wall or between two other vehicles.

Supple and discreet:

The HDi 173 DPFS engine brings excellent driving pleasure thanks to the double parallel sequential turbo, a genuine innovation on a 4-cylinder diesel engine.

The double parallel sequential turbo ensures both ample torque at low engine speeds and instant response when the turbo is activated. The maximum torque of 273 lb/ft is reached at a low 1,500 rpm, and remains constant right up to 2,700 rpm, at the top of the most frequently used engine speed range.

The double parallel sequential turbo involves the use of two fixed-geometry turbo compressors identical in size. At low engine speeds, i.e. below 2,700 rpm, only one of the turbos operates. Its low inertia ensures that the engine is perfectly responsive. Above 2,700 rpm, it is bolstered by the second turbo to deliver the air intake needed over the full range of higher engine speeds.

A transitory phase, as the second turbo starts to rotate but is not yet connected to the admission, makes for smoother activation. The whole system is entirely controlled by the engine computer.

The use of two balancer shafts helps enhance the sense of driving pleasure by limiting engine vibration.

The HDi 173 DPFS engine is used in conjunction with a 6-speed manual gearbox that provides outstanding driving pleasure, ensuring extremely precise and rapid gear changes. The 6-speed gearbox is also compact, no bigger than a 5-speed unit, and results in no increase in turning circle.

In the course of 2008, this engine will also be made available in some countries with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Strict control of consumption and emissions:

This engine also features a new ECCS combustion chamber (Extreme Conventional Combustion System) which optimises the air/fuel mix, and a third generation common rail whose pressure has been pushed up to 1,800 bars to ensure a finer fuel spray. This combination cuts emissions by around 30% compared with the previous generation 2.2-litre HDi while at the same time enhancing performance levels.

The new engine, which is systematically fitted with a particulate filter (DPFS), thus delivers combined-cycle consumption of 7.2 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 191 g/km.

Upgraded running gear:

The C8's running gear has been adapted to match the more dynamic powertrain performance. Fitted in all versions with pseudo-MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam axle at the rear, the C8 has excellent directional stability and steering precision.

In its HDi 173 DPFS version, the C8 is also equipped with special rear shock absorbers and a special anti-roll bar, while the stiffness of the front struts has been stepped up. The overall result of these enhancements is the best possible trade-off between roadholding and comfort for active safety and top-level driving pleasure.

Optimised braking:

To adapt the braking components to the C8's enhanced performance levels, they have been resized: the ventilated 310 x 32 mm discs at the front have been enlarged, and are linked to dual-piston calipers. This configuration provides the C8 with precise, fade-free and easy-to-gauge braking.

Concentrated technology for exemplary well-being and safety:

Intelligent driving assistance:

The inclusion of the HDi 173 DPFS engine in the C8 range is accompanied by the arrival of complementary equipment to ensure the highest possible level of well-being. The largest Citroën MPV is now equipped, in its Exclusive version, with front and rear parking aid systems.

Sensors in the front and rear bumpers detect obstacles near the vehicle. Audio signals played through the various loudspeakers, and a representation of the parking manoeuvre on the multi-function dashboard screen, show the precise location of any obstacles in the detection zone.

The C8 is equipped as standard on the Exclusive version with the new NaviDrive telematics system. Complete with a large colour screen, this system combines, together with the features of an integrated GSM phone, audio functions (radio, MP3-compatible CD player, hard disk storage up to 30 gigabytes, 10 of which are available in the Jukebox) and GPS navigation. The NaviDrive system has also been designed to offer complementary features: Citroën Emergency, Citroën Assistance, and Citroën On Line. Combined with the GPS and telephone functions, Citroën Emergency enables, depending on the country concerned, the determination of the vehicle's location in the event of accident or driver incapacity, and access to call centre services.

The C8 can also be fitted with a Bluetooth hands-free kit, depending on the trim level, enabling the driver to easily use a cell phone while focusing complete attention on the driving situation.

Comprehensive safety equipment:

To provide the driver with all the information and assistance needed for peace of mind, the C8 is equipped with a speed limiter, combined with the standard equipment cruise control depending on the country, and a low-tyre pressure detection system (available in some equipment packs) which identifies the wheel concerned.

Furthermore, to ensure maximum safety for occupants, all C8 models are equipped with a series of active safety systems, such as ABS, ASR, ESP, EBA and automatic warning light activation. And to ensure exemplary protection for all passengers, 6 airbags are available as standard equipment.

The effectiveness of all this equipment, combined with the car's outstanding structural resistance, is reflected in the 5-star rating awarded to the C8 in the EuroNCAP test.

By seamlessly matching the C8's features with the most powerful four-cylinder HDi engine in the Citroën range, the C8 HDi 173 DPFS offers outstanding motoring comfort, unique styling, remarkable spaciousness and equipment that make it one of the best in its class.

Related Link:

2008 Lancia Phedra

Chevrolet Camaro caught undisguised

Chevrolet Camaro engineers have been told to ditch disguising Camaro test mules after Bob Lutz said the disguised would muck-up the aerodynamic testing.

The disguised Camaro was caught on a transporter loaded with Holden's in Denmark whilst it was making its way to Sweden, to do some cold-weather testing.

V6 and V8 engines will be available in the coupé variant and soft-top cabriolet with U.S sales starting in 2009.

Spy photographers story:

One of our European operatives caught this full stable of high- performance Holden test cars--including the new Camaro--between Denmark and Sweden, en route to the frigid arctic circle testing grounds. The encounter provided the best, most detailed look at the Camaro, including the first shots of the car's interior. As with the exterior, the production Camaro's interior will remain true to the concept in its overall look and feel. The largest change between the concept and production versions is found on this prototype's center stack, which has an attractive stereo interface that was missing on the show car. The four small analog gages still reside in front of the gear shift lever, and the old-school instrumentation pods have survived the productionizing process largely unscathed. A band of color-keyed trim runs along the dash face, and flares out into the door panels, providing some welcome character and further linking the production Camaro with the concept that has been only teasing us for far too long now.

Our close-up look reveals that these Camaro prototypes were outfitted with 20-inch wheels, and were shod with 245/45 ZR20 Pirello P Zero tires.

Related link:

Chevrolet Camaro spied in Australia

Concept Car: Mercedes Vision GLK Freeside Concept

Stuttgart / Detroit. --- GLK – a combination of letters that has specific connotations. The “G” alludes to the archetypal cross-country vehicle, the “L” intimates luxury and, as in other Mercedes model series, the “K” stands for compactness (German: Kompaktheit). At first sight these three aspects may appear to be mutually incompatible. But on closer inspection they offer the perfect combination as Mercedes-Benz takes its SUV expertise and launches it in a whole new dimension – in the exciting Vision GLK FREESIDE. In January 2008 this compact character will be making its world debut at the Detroit Auto Show, providing a vision of the shape of SUVs to come.

The Vision GLK FREESIDE study, now close to series production, has a distinctive design and combines typical SUV characteristics such as robustness and off-road capability with refined motoring characteristics on “normal” roads. The AGILITY CONTROL suspension ensures excellent handling dynamics and agility, coupled with excellent ride comfort and pioneering active safety. A high-strength bodyshell forms the backbone of this model and also ensures other key characteristics: the driving stability and virtual absence of vibration and noise, whatever the conditions, are compelling, and the passive safety, as you expect from the brand, is of the highest standard.

The economical and environmentally friendly new-generation BLUETEC four-cylinder engine, combined with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission and the new 4MATIC all-wheel drive, ensures highly appealing performance. The compact concept vehicle, measuring 14.8 feet in length, also boasts technology usually reserved for higher vehicle classes. Features not only include the anticipatory PRE-SAFE® safety concept and the Intelligent Light System (ILS), but also the intuitively controlled COMAND APS infotainment center, a rear-seat entertainment system with two screens and THERMOTRONIC 3-zone automatic climate control.

Extremely attractive in stylistic terms, this vision of a future compact SUV, a vehicle packed with character, succeeds by combining the angular design of the original G-Class with typical design features from the contemporary Mercedes-Benz passenger car range. The interior of the Vision GLK FREESIDE complements the expressive body design and impresses with high-quality materials and an ergonomically coherent overall concept, instantly conveying that typical Mercedes ambiance.

The Vision GLK FREESIDE is to undergo its first test of character at the NAIAS in Detroit. “The Vision GLK illustrates the logical way in which our extremely successful model strategy can be continued in the SUV segment,” commented Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG. Dr. Zetsche has a very close connection with the compact and distinctive Vision GLK FREESIDE, based on his time as a vehicle developer back in the mid-1980s. One of Dr. Zetsche’s areas of responsibility at that time was the development of the legendary G-Class. Looking back, he explained, “The needs profiles are different now. But there’s one thing that hasn’t changed: if a Mercedes has a G in its name, it has to perform exceptionally in all conditions.”

Vision GLK FREESIDE: Expressive, Distinctive, Independent:

Stylistic borrowings from the forefather of all Mercedes-Benz SUVs give the Vision GLK FREESIDE a special positioning. Head of design Prof. Peter Pfeiffer put it in a nutshell, “With the G-Class we created a styling icon which has been the benchmark for almost 30 years. Combining this bold design with the latest Mercedes-Benz design elements makes the Vision GLK FREESIDE a vehicle of genuine character.”

Indeed, never before has there been such a distinctively expressive vision of tomorrow’s compact SUV. Bringing together the angular original design with the typical design features found in all contemporary Mercedes-Benz passenger cars creates a thrilling allure. Here the company’s unmistakable design idiom, with its interplay of taut lines and large, expansive surfaces, is combined with the typical body features of a functional off-road vehicle, such as short overhangs, an upright front end, slim roof pillars, a steeply raked windscreen and taut roof lines. Specially manufactured 20-inch light-alloy wheels and muscular wheel arches add an extra touch of power and charisma to the Vision GLK FREESIDE.

The vehicle’s body design is by no means an end in itself. It allows the typical advantages of an off-road vehicle to be introduced to the road-oriented, compact SUV class for the first time. Large angles of approach and departure plus good ground clearance make off-road ventures a joy. The outstandingly clear layout of the body and the good all-round visibility, combined with the raised seating position, increases the vehicle’s suitability for everyday on-road use and ensures relaxed driving even in dense city traffic.

The Vision GLK FREESIDE’s convincing design concept is reinforced by the special effect “diamond-white magno” paintwork. Unlike conventional metallic paintwork, a matte clearcoat protects the surface here. The detachable body parts, in gloss sterling silver, produce a charming contrast and give the study an even more exclusive look.

The Interior: Trend-Setter in the Compact Premium Segment:

The distinctive looks of the exterior are seamlessly continued inside the SUV study. A thrilling stylistic contrast is produced by the juxtaposition of two formally different worlds. On the one hand the Vision GLK FREESIDE offers a high-quality and comfortable interior with impressive materials and precise detailing. On the other hand the contemporary treatment of the surfaces brings the latest in Mercedes design to the interior. The dashboard is the dominant element here, its wide, emphatically three-dimensional trim lending the generous interior an additional sense of width. The main focus is an elegant trim tier in matte, anthracite-colored cebrano wood with white grain and a precision-tailored chrome trim strip. This element, with its rich contrasts, extends across the full width of the interior and divides the main body of the dashboard into three horizontal planes. The upper area is trimmed in black leather and encompasses the instrument cluster and the static COMAND APS central display.

The lower area, like the tunnel and the footwells, echoes the color scheme of the exterior paintwork. The seats and the lower part of the door are trimmed in specially coated white leather which, like the “diamond-white magno” paintwork, has a matte gloss finish. Treating the natural leather in this way not only produces a stunning look but gives it a velvety soft, skin-friendly, easy-grip surface. Black piping adds to the interesting black and white contrasts. The driver’s armrest and the COMAND APS controller are placed in the optimum ergonomic position. Control of the individual menus is intuitive, following the highly familiar control logic used in the S-Class. Additional shortcut buttons make it easier to access the most important main functions.

The occupants are protected by a comprehensive safety concept, based on a high-strength passenger cell and energy-absorbing deformation zones at the front and rear. The protective program includes front airbags, sidebags and windowbags, plus a kneebag for the driver and crash-responsive head restraints.

New BLUETEC Four-Cylinder Powerplant with AdBlue Injection:

The Vision GLK FREESIDE is powered by a new-generation diesel engine. The four-cylinder unit, with a 2.2-litre displacement, reflects the study vehicle’s dynamic basic concept and allows impressive performance figures with an output of 125 kW/168bhp SAE net, plus reduced consumption and reduced emissions. The technical features of the extremely compact and smooth CDI powerplant with rear camshaft drive include fourth-generation common-rail direct injection with an injection pressure of 2,000 bar and a two-stage turbocharger system.

The modular BLUETEC emission control system has been enhanced by Mercedes-Benz and the most efficient version has been combined for the first time with a four-cylinder engine. "BLUETEC gives us a technology that makes it possible for us to combine the high efficiency and impressive torque of modern diesel engines with extremely low emissions – a perfect propulsion unit for a compact SUV like the GLK," declares Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and responsible for corporate research and the development of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The focus of BLUETEC technology is on ensuring the greatest possible reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions. This is the only exhaust gas component that is intrinsically higher in diesel engines than in petrol engines. In addition to an oxidizing catalytic converter and a maintenance-free particulate filter, an SCR catalytic converter is also used. AdBlue, a harmless, aqueous urea solution, is injected into the exhaust gas stream. This converts up to 80 percent of the nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water. Here the study highlights the way in which compact four-cylinder diesel models can also meet the most stringent emissions limits, even those specified by EU6, which will apply to all new vehicles from 2015. By then today’s EU4 nitrogen oxide limits will have to be reduced by around another 70 percent to 0.08 g/km. Even the strict US BIN 5 limits and the Californian LEV2 regulations would not present a problem for the Vision GLK FREESIDE.

Superior Dynamic Handling Thanks to Cutting-Edge 4MATIC Drivetrain:

The new 4MATIC drivetrain in the Vision GLK FREESIDE is one of the most powerful all-wheel-drive systems. Thanks to the compact, lightweight and friction-optimized basic design, with a longitudinally installed engine and block-design main transmission and transfer case, it offers various advantages over other systems with a transversely installed drive unit. The fuel consumption, for example, is around the level of a comparable, conventionally driven vehicle. The minimal vibration and noise levels rival those of today’s luxury-class models.

The 45:55 percent basic distribution of the drive torque between the front and rear axle plus the ESP®, ASR and 4ETS dynamic handling control systems ensure effortlessly superior and predictable performance in all conditions. Optimum traction, the greatest driving stability and the best handling are assured at all times. The newly developed multiple-disc clutch in the central differential supports the system where the friction between the tires and the road surface is particularly low, for example on snow or ice. A basic partial locking force of 50 Newton meters between the front and rear axles produces a significant increase in traction, while maintaining the high level of driving stability.

The “G” button in the center console increases the Vision GLK FREESIDE’s aggression when required on rough terrain. Pressing the button activates a special transmission mode which varies the 7G-TRONIC’s shift points, adjusts to “softer” accelerator characteristics and activates the ESP’s off-road function. A manual shift mode is also available – gears are changed using the shift paddles behind the steering wheel. A further switch activates the Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), which automatically maintains a pre-selected speed on steep downhill inclines.

Pioneering Chassis Concept Unites Different Worlds of Driving:

The Vision GLK FREESIDE’s AGILITY CONTROL suspension resolves a conflict of objectives which particularly affects the SUV class, where chassis engineers want to create a vehicle which is both sportily agile and comfortably smooth yet one which can also cope with off-road terrain. If the focus is on sportily active handling, the springs and above all the shock absorbers have to demonstrate a certain firmness, which precludes access to the brand’s typical suspension comfort and limits the off-road options. If the vehicle is set up with softer dampers to ensure suspension comfort and off-road capability, dynamic handling naturally suffers. The solution is “amplitude-dependent damping”: the damping forces of the shock absorber are configured to respond flexibly rather than lineally.

In normal driving mode on moderately contoured roads or on slow off-road tours the system responds softly, enhancing both the comfort of the occupants and the off-road capability. To ensure that this level of comfort is retained in the face of hard driving or abrupt evasion maneuvers, in these situations the dampers deliver a harder performance, ensuring optimum driving stability. The driver of the Vision GLK is supported by speed-sensitive power steering which ensures the optimum steering assistance for the given situation. Parking or maneuvering off-road are easy exercises because the greatest possible power assistance is on hand. At higher speeds the assistance is reduced in favor of greater driving stability.

Vision GLK FREESIDE: Continuing a Success Story:

Since the launch of the legendary G-Class in 1979, Mercedes-Benz has been a leader in the field of off-road vehicles. With the first generation of the ML-Class, which appeared in 1997, Mercedes-Benz marked out the contemporary sports utility vehicle segment. Including the latest generation of this model, which made its debut in 2005, this model series is one of the most successful premium SUVs in the world, with around 900,000 vehicles sold. The GL-Class in turn has occupied the top spot in the overall SUV world since 2006, its occupants traveling first-class whatever the conditions, whether on or off the road. The Vision GLK FREESIDE now demonstrates how the expertise garnered in the course of creating this sequence of models can be translated into a compact format. The new compact character, in other words, is in the best of company – just like the production model, which is to be launched in Europe in fall 2008, followed by the U.S. in January 2009.

Related link:

Mercedes GLK caught undisguised on Sex and the City movie set

New Car: 2008 Citroen Berlingo/Peugeot Partner

Citroen Berlingo:

With the Berlingo, Citroën created the leisure activity vehicle segment and launched a new concept in compact vans. Its innovative qualities appealed to private and professional customers alike, making it a huge commercial success. It has been the clear leader in the leisure activity vehicle segment in Europe (17 countries) since 2003. Worldwide, Citroën has sold more than 1,760,000 Berlingos (cars and LCVs) since launch in 1996.

The New Berlingo will go on sale in second-half 2008. It will be sold alongside the current Berlingo model, which will be available in some countries as an entry-level offering called “Berlingo First”. This strategy will enable the Marque to better meet the highly diverse needs of its customers.

The comfort of a saloon and the practicality of an MPV:

Adapting to all situations, the Berlingo meets customers’ growing needs for freedom and versatility in use.

The New Berlingo retains the ultra-functional, family-friendly character of the original and strengthens its personality with dynamic, upmarket styling that also identifies it immediately as a Citroën. It boasts saloon-like levels of comfort – acoustics in particular – and MPV-style practicality (tailgate with opening window, three independent removable seats in row two, a redesigned Modutop® and an overhead storage rack). It is also a great car to drive, thanks to a longer wheelbase and C4 Picasso running gear.

And with its 110 bhp HDi diesel engine fitted with a particulate filter (DPFS), the New Berlingo carries the Airdream environmental signature that denotes the greenest models in Citroën’s range.

Practical and functional, yet strong on styling and comfort:

The compact van version of the New Berlingo is big on load volume, payload and versatility, which are key features for professionals. It has a huge loading area (3.3 m3, up to 850 kg of payload and 1.8 m of useful length) that can take two Europallets width-wise, and is available with an Extenso® modular cabin, able to transport loads up to 3 metres long and increase useful load to 3.7 m3 or seat three people at the front.

The New Berlingo also offers passengers saloon-like levels of equipment for comfort and driving pleasure, including hill start assist, a height- and reach-adjustable steering wheel, C4 Picasso running gear and ESP. The New Berlingo is a modern working tool that confers prestige on its owners through its robust and dynamic styling.

The launch of the New Berlingo follows those of new Jumper, new Jumpy and Citroën’s latest compact van, Nemo. Citroën thus offers professionals the largest and most complete line-up of light commercial vehicles in its history, covering a wide range of needs, from 2.5 m3 to 17 m3 of load volume and up to two tonnes of payload.

Peugeot Partner:

Launched in 1996, the Peugeot Partner has been extremely successful in both its small van and MPV versions, with regular year on year increases in global sales over the past eleven years. Capitalising on the success of the first generation Peugeot Partner, Peugeot will launch a new version of the Partner in the second part of 2008.

With the launch of the new Partner, the first generation Partner model will, however, continue to be sold in certain countries with a reduced range of models and will be known as the Partner Origin.

Professional efficiency down to the last detail:

With a refreshing and dynamic style which is perfectly adapted to the demands of its professional customer base, both with regards to quality, durability and efficiency, the new Partner is the perfect working companion due to its versatility and value for money. In terms of practicality, the new Partner has a maximum load capacity which will be a new reference point in the small van segment. With a length of 4.38m the new Partner has a load volume of 3.3m3 and a maximum payload of up to 850kg. The load area length of 1.8m can also be extended to 3m thanks to the new innovative Multi-Flex passenger seat, giving 400 litres of additional load space. This innovative feature allows three people to sit in the front which is the first time this option has been available in the small van segment.

Thanks to the use of the Peugeot 308 power train, the new Partner benefits from improved acoustic comfort, combined with an ergonomic driving position and excellent visibility. This all combines to give the new Partner a level of quality which will symbolise this new generation of small vans.

The new Partner puts the finishing touches to the complete enhancement and renewal of the Peugeot range of light commercial vehicles. The new and extended range which is even more innovative, offers a range of vehicles from 2.5m3 to 17m3, consisting of the Bipper, Partner Origin, new Partner, Expert and Boxer.

Peugeot Partner Tepee: the MPV that lets you enjoy the freedom of the open road:

The new Partner Tepee MPV represents the next generation of a concept invented by Peugeot in 1996. The Partner Tepee is a multi-usage vehicle which is practical and which has a modern and original style both, on the inside and the outside. Its modular styling will appeal to customers requiring space and versatility. Most notably, it has a new Zenith multi-purpose roof providing even more light into the passenger compartment, three individual folding rear seats, greater interior space and driving qualities worthy of a modern hatchback car.

Adventure seekers, however, will also love its all-terrain capabilities and the personalised design of the Partner Tepee Outdoor.

Fiat 500 at the 2008 F1 Grand Prix in Australia

The car that’s taking the world by storm – the Fiat 500 - is to be driven in the Celebrity Challenge race at the 2008 FORMULA 1™ ING Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. The announcement is the latest in a series of innovations unveiled by the Australian Grand Prix Corporation in recent months, all aimed at ensuring the Albert Park event will be the most exciting in its thirteen year history.

“In keeping with our fresh approach to the 2008 Grand Prix there could be no better choice of car for the celebrity race than the Fiat 500,” said Drew Ward, CEO of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation.

The car unveiled is the first Fiat 500 to be seen in Australia or New Zealand; the first right hand drive model to be seen anywhere in the world; and the first racing version to be seen anywhere in the world.

“Since its launch just four months ago, this Italian gem has set the motoring world on fire,” said Mr Ward. Spectators at next year’s Grand Prix will not only get the chance to witness Formula One, the V8 Supercars and a full-on two-hour Kiss concert extravaganza, but now they’ll be among the first in the country to see the all-new Fiat 500 in action.”

Famous names from Australian sport will be given the honour of racing the vehicle, with a ‘Sporting Legends’ theme set to inject plenty of competition into next year’s Celebrity Challenge. Australian Rules star Luke Darcy and Wallaby speedster Ben Tune were announced today as the latest drivers in the all-star line-up. They join former Collingwood captain Nathan Buckley on the starting grid at the March 13 – 16 event, with plenty more big names to come.

“After so many years of battling it out on the footy field, I can’t wait to get behind the wheel at Albert Park to take part in a completely different kind of battle," said Darcy, who enjoyed a 226-game career with the Western Bulldogs. “Now that I've hung the boots up, it's just awesome to be able to have the opportunity to do something like this."

Australian Rugby Union winger Tune, who was famous for his fast finishes on the field, is hoping to earn the same reputation on the race track. “I’ve always wanted to take part in the Celebrity Challenge,” said Tune. “To be given the chance to experience this with so many fantastic sports people is an added bonus. I hope sports fans from every code will come down to Albert Park in March to see us race.”

The Fiat 500 is the most sought after car in Europe, having won numerous awards headed by 2008 European Car of the Year. Australian and New Zealand production has already been snapped up for the first three months of supply, even without prices and specs announced.

“With its outstanding advance sales, its unique parentage and cheeky good looks, the new Fiat 500 is already a celebrity in its own right,” said David Stone, General Manager for Fiat Cars in Australia. “So it’s entirely appropriate that, as Australia’s most eagerly awaited new car for 2008, the Fiat 500 should join forces with Australia’s top sporting celebrities to present a bright, new, exciting face for the Celebrity Challenge. This will be the first time the new Fiat 500 has taken part in motor sport, recreating another part of the original 500’s heritage, and given the huge interest in the new 500 around the world, it will further raise the profile of the Grand Prix as TV viewers tune in to see the spectacle of the new 500 in competition for the first time! The new Fiat 500 is the heart and soul of Fiat. It is both an extremely good looking and stylish small car that is unmistakably a Fiat - full of character and spirit. But at the same time it has the design integrity to blend this with cutting edge technology, creating a new benchmark for safety, fuel economy and low emissions. Just as the original 500 was the standard against which all small cars were judged in the 1950s, so the new 500 is the perfect small car for the 21st century.”

FIAT 500 UK pricing

FIAT 500 production expands again

FIAT 500 crash test results

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FIAT 500 production expands

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13,400 Europeans caught drink-driving

Over 850,000 European motorists were checked in the traffic police operation “Tispol Drink and Drug” just in a single week between December 10th and December 16th. The Europe-wide clampdown on drink driving saw police check over drivers in 23 countries by Tispol, the European Traffic Police Network that is co-financed by the European Commission.

The legal alcohol limit for drivers varies from country to country, but the operation caught more than 13,400 motorists with positive drink test. Most drunk drivers are reported to be in France, followed by Spain, Germany and UK. As opposed to them, Denmark, Czech Republic and Norway have less than 100 drunk drivers caught in that week. Most checks were conducted in Spain, twice more than in Germany. But there is disturbing fact, that some 737 gave a positive test to drugs while driving. The biggest number, 299, is in Germany, followed by Sweden, France and Italy.

"The fact that in a single week we caught over 13,000 drink drivers on Europe's roads shows the clear need for operations like this", said TISPOL President Adam Briggs. Around 40,000 people a year are killed on Europe's roads and drink driving is one of the major causes. The European Commission aims to reduce that number with over 50% by the end of this decade.

Restyling for the big Maserati

A more heavily disguised prototype of the 2009 Maserati Quattroporte was caught testing in Sweden this week and the extent of camouflage makes us suspicious of the degree of the Quattroporte's mid-lifecycle freshening.

With this amount of camouflage, it looks as if the complete front end could be revised. The powerful sedan's headlamps look bigger and there will likely be larger air intakes in the car's new front bumper.

Spy photographers were unable to snap shots of the Quattroporte's rear, but the shooter tells us that the rear bumper was also disguised with black tape so expect changes to the Maserati's back end as well.

The next Quattroporte is due in 2012 rivalling the Porsche Panamera and the Aston Martin Rapide.

Related link:

Maserati Quattroporte facelift

When a test drive goes horribly wrong

A teenager from Victoria, Australia went to their local Holden dealer and took a Holden VY HSV Clubsport out for a test drive. It was all going well untill the teen put their foot down on the gas pedal on the last corner before the Holden dealership.

The teen loses control of the sporty Commodore which went flying into the air after hitting a kerb.

The car went through the dealership’s gate, landing on several cars.

Baby Alfa Romeo in the dark

Good things come to those who wait - and here is the proof!

Fans of the Alfasud have been killing time for more than 23 years and now the very first spy photos of the new Junior have surfaced the Web.

The "Junior" is set to be revealed at the upcoming Geneva motorshow in March and will rival the upcoming Audi A1 and the Mini Cooper whilst slotting under the 147 in the firms line-up.

Although there is no official name yet, Alfa Romeo let Internet users name the car. The winning name was "Furiosa" but Alfa executives decided to ditch the name after the results came in.

The first photo doesn't reveal much except from a foglamp but we expect the new comer to feature the trademark nose treatment which can be seen on the Brera coupé, 159 and the Spider. Its shield shaped grille will be flanked by a trio of projector style headlights. The rear photo gives us a glimpse of the rear bumper and uncovered the oval shaped exhaust tips.

Under the hood will be the brand's JTD diesel engines alongside direct-injection petrol units which will deliver power to the front wheels.

Mazda2 hatchback & sedan go on sale in January (China)

Mazda has launched the Mazda2 five door hatchback and four door sedan in China with the first deliveries starting in early 2008. The hatchback variant comes out in January with sales of the sedan following after. The new model was introduced in China, in November, at the Guangzhou motor show.

The Mazda2 is built in Nanjing by Mazda parent company Ford's joint venture, Changan Ford Mazda Automobile, a new plant completed in September 2007. Mazda is targeting sales of 55,000 or more Mazda2 hatchbacks per year in the growing China market and overall Mazda sales of at least 180,000 units there. Mazda has said that it targets 300,000 sales in China and 300 dealers by 2010.

Next on Mazda's list for China is the Mazda3 five-door hatchback which is due to go on sale in China in mid-2008.

Related links:

Mazda2 diesel UK pricing

Mazda2 crash test results

Mazda UK wants Mazda2 MPS

Mazda2 production starts

Teaser: 2008 Mercedes SL-Class facelift

Yesterday, Mercedes Benz announced the addition of two new top-of-the-range AMG models to its SL product range; the SL63 & SL65 AMG. To uphold some momentum ahead of it official launch, Mercedes published only a three-quarters rear view teaser image of the V12 bi-turbo SL65 flagship model, leaving the front end restyling open to assumption.

Apart from the antagonistic new rear air diffuser with the standard AMG quad exhaust pipes, a small rear spoiler and what appears to be "997 Turbo"-inspired wheels, the rear of the facelifted SL AMG model barely looks different from the pre-facelift model.

As far as we know, the SL65 will be powered by a 6.0-litre bi-turbo V12 powerplant developing around 612 hp and torque in excess of 1,000 Nm. The SL63 which will replace the SL55, will receive a 525 hp V8 with 630 Nm of torque. Joined with AMG's seven-speed "SPEEDSHIFT MCT" gearbox, these latest AMG beasts should offer true 'Fahrspa.'