5-11 April 2017

No. 1,467 | 3.20

EXCLUSIVE IMAGES
MI
M NI tech transforms
BMWs baby

New Micra VS rivals Skoda targets Tesla

Can stylish Nissan topple Polo & C3? Model X rival is first of five new EVs

FIRST UK TEST
DRIVEN New Volkswagen Golf R and Kia Picanto
Ne w Ib
Wh sexy SEA
Why
iz
SEATT rai
raises
a dr iv en
ses the bar foorr sm
small
all cars
ar
 Contents
News | New Cars | Features | Tests | Products | Buying cars | Sport

Newsweek
COVER New BMW 1 Series 8
MINI tech set to transform next generation of baby Beemer
COVER New Audi A3 10
Stylish hatch leads the pack of rivals set to take on 1 Series
COVER Skoda Vision E 12
Shanghai concept to head up ve new EVs on sale by 2025
Four new SEATs on way 15
Boss reveals whats in store including brands rst electric car
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 16
Storming V8-powered SUV arrives in two body styles
Roadside breakdowns on rise 18
And its down to the lack of spare wheels on new cars

Features
Ten years of the Qashqai 22
8 Exclusive images of new BMW 1 Series... We reect on a decade of success for groundbreaking Nissan

New cars
10 ...plus new A3 leads hi-tech rivals it has to beat COVER SEAT Ibiza 26
Stylish new Fiesta rival sets the small car standard
Kia Picanto 30
Korean city car is a genuine threat to VW up! and Skoda Citigo
Volkswagen Golf R 32
Range-topping Golf is a brilliant all-round performance car...
Volkswagen Golf GTE 33
...while plug-in hybrid version of hatch is revamped, too
Bentley Bentayga Diesel 34
Sensation or sacrilege? Controversial oil-burning SUV driven

Road tests
30 First drive verdict on new Kia Picanto 22 We mark a decade of Nissans Qashqai COVER New Micra vs rivals 36
Stylish new supermini takes on Citroen C3 and VW Polo
Porsche Panamera vs Tesla Model S 46
Online Worlds fastest diesel squares up to electric thriller
52
this week Our cars
Updates on the Kia Niro and Peugeot 2008

Products
New on the shelves 58
Latest kit rated, including a tough new tool kit
USB adaptors tested 60
We assess three. Plus new books and DVDs rated
Top tool boxes 62
Which is best for the car DIY fan? We put eight to the test

First drive verdict

on Countryman JCW Buying cars
Skoda Yeti owner reviews 65
26 We get behind the wheel of new SEAT Ibiza THE latest MINI to receive the You tell us what crossover is like to live with on a daily basis
Skoda John Cooper Works treatment is Insignia buyers guide 66
plans also the largest. And this week Vauxhall family car is exceptional value as a used purchase
five new well be putting the 228bhp Best 4WD SUVs 68
EVs Countryman JCW to the test. Our experts pick three great choices on a budget of 15,000
Page 12 Powered by the same 2.0-
litre turbo and ALL4 four-wheel
New car prices 72
All the info you need before you head to the showroom
drive system from the Clubman
JCW, MINI claims the crossover
can do 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds.
Regulars
Does a performance-focused Consumer news 20
Countryman really make sense? Watchdog solves your problems, plus you have your say
Or is it a step too far? Head Get Auto Express every week 71
online to read our thoughts as How to net a great deal on your favourite magazine
we give our definitive verdict.
Sport 80
For more visit Chinese Grand Prix preview, plus all the latest news

autoexpress.co.uk Back chat 82

36 All-new Nissan Micra takes on VW Polo and Citroen C3 Mike Rutherford on the importance of Driver Power

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 5

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 This week
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for all the latest new cars news
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 Top story First for news every week

Third-generation 1 Series set to share MINI running gear

Rear-drive handling sacrificed in quest for improved efficiency
Jonathan Burn
Jonathan_Burn@dennis.co.uk
@Jonathan_burn
THE BMW 1 Series has been a huge
success since it launched in 2004, but
BMW is planning a complete rethink for the
third generation of its premium hatchback.
Its due to arrive at the end of next year,
before going on sale early in 2019, but while
our images reveal that itll look similar to the
model it replaces, a radical revamp under
the skin will see rear-wheel drive ditched
in favour of drive to the front axle.
The new 1 Series will use the UKL platform
that features on the BMW X1 and MINI range.
While that will affect the way the 1 Series
drives, BMW is confident that more people
will benefit from the practicality and
efficiency the new platform can offer.
A longer wheelbase and absence of
a propshaft will free up more space for
passengers in the back, and also increase
boot capacity. The new 1 Series should
also be marginally taller and wider.
While big changes are going on beneath
the skin, the redesign of the 1 Series wont
be as revolutionary. The third-generation
hatchback should appear sleeker than the
current model; softer body panels and
slimmer LED headlights that integrate with
the kidney grille, like those seen on the new
5 Series, will be the standout changes.
The new platform will bring advantages
when it comes to weight reduction and
practicality, but fans of the faster M models
are going to be left disappointed. As
the UKL platform is only compatible with
four-cylinder engines, that means the
next flagship M140i will have to ditch its
sonorous straight-six engine in favour
of a turbocharged four-cylinder.
Not only that, but it will also switch
from rear-wheel drive to xDrive four-wheel
drive. That means it will be a direct
competitor with models such as the
Volkswagen Golf R (driven on Page 32),
Mercedes-AMG A45 and Ford Focus RS.
Engines for the rest of the 1 Series range
will be adopted from the MINI and X1 line-
ups. Entry-level cars, likely to be badged
116d, should come powered by an updated
version of BMWs 1.5-litre three-cylinder
diesel, while a turbocharged three-cylinder
petrol unit should appear in the 118i.
Larger and more powerful 2.0-litre four-
cylinder petrol and diesel engines will be
found in the 120i and 120d respectively.
BMW will also use the next 1 Series to
launch a wider roll-out of its iPerformance
line-up. Joining BMWs five other plug-in
hybrid models will be an electrified 1 Series
using a tuned version of the powertrain
found in the MINI Countryman Cooper E.
Comprising a 1.5-litre turbo and small electric
motor, economy of more than 130mpg and
CO2 emissions below 50g/km are likely.
We can expect new versions of the
2 Series Coup and Convertible to follow
the 1 Series at the end of 2019, and these
will also adopt a front-wheel-drive layout. EXCLUSIVEIMAGES

Front-wheel-drive
1 Series on way
Radical mechanical revamp for BMWs small hatch
Avarvarii

OUTGOING MODEL Current rear-wheel-drive 1 Series is a unique offering in the compact

hatch class. It offers fun handling and efficiency, but new front-drive model will emphasise the latter

8 5 April 2017
BMW 1 Series Top story
A radical revamp will see rear-
wheel drive ditched in favour
of drive to the front axle

SPACE
Room for rear
passengers
will be boosted
by a longer
wheelbase
and the lack
of a propshaft

5 April 2017 9
 News BMW 1 Series rivals

THE RIVALS: The cars

the 1 Series has to beat
Jonathan Burn
Jonathan_Burn@dennis.co.uk
@Jonathan_burn VW Golf
BMW isnt the only manufacturer putting the Mk8
finishing touches to an all-new premium 2019
hatchback. Well see rivals from Mercedes, Audi and
VW in showrooms by the end of 2019, all boasting new THE Golf Mk8 is the
tech, efficient powertrains and autonomous driving. furthest away from
The industrys focus may be on developing an army showrooms, but it has
of SUVs, but hatchbacks such as the 1 Series are often already been described
the best sellers in a premium brands line-up. These are as the versatile car
the incoming models that the BMW will face, and the by VW boss Herbert
cars that the manufacturers cant afford to get wrong. Diess. It will be based
on an updated version
Well see rivals from Mercedes, of the MQB platform,
Auto Bild

will shed around 70kg,

Audi and VW in showrooms by 2019 and be more spacious.

Audi A3
2019 EXCLUSIVE
IMAGE
THE current A3 is one Avarvarii
of the best-selling
premium cars in the
UK, thanks to its range
of body styles and
powertrains. Like the
Golf Mk8, the new
A3 will use the
same updated MQB
platform. Well see a
more efficient plug-in
hybrid e-tron model,
while 48-volt electrics
could also feature
in standard models
to boost efficiency.

Mercedes
A-Class EXCLUSIVE
IMAGE
Mid 2018 Avarvarii

A MORE practical
and spacious A-Class
will land next year,
and its likely to set
the class benchmark.
The new MFA2 chassis
should address
criticisms of the
current model and
make the A-Class more
engaging to drive. A
new range of petrol
and diesel engines
will also feature.

10 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

FORD RANGER
ford.co.uk/Ranger

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Ford Ranger range: urban 24.8 -38.7 (11.4 -7.3), extra urban 38.7 - 49.6 (7.3 - 5.7), combined 32.1 - 43.5 (8.8 - 6.5).
Official CO 2 emission 231 -171g/km.
The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience.
 News Skoda EVs
OFFICIAL
ON ITS WAY
Skoda CEO
Bernhard Maier
has confirmed
that production
version of the
Vision E concept
will be on sale
by 2020. Its not
yet decided
where itll be
built, though
Vision E to head up five
Graham Hope
Graham_Hope@dennis.co.uk
SKODA has confirmed that its
Vision E Shanghai Motor Show
concept will preview the first of five all-
electric cars from the brand on sale by 2025.
And according to boss Bernhard Maier,
the production version of the coup-
crossover will be in showrooms by 2020.
The Vision E will be joined by an array of
plug-in hybrid models, with the Superb
saloon already slated for 2019. Insiders
have confirmed to Auto Express that plug-in
versions of the Kodiaq, new Yeti and
next Octavia would be feasible, too.
The news follows sketches (right)
of the Vision E released last week, while
a new profile shot of the EV shows its
coup-like silhouette in greater detail.
It follows the blueprint of the Tesla Model
X as a rakish, high-riding crossover but with
clear Kodiaq styling influences, although
12 5 April 2017
We are conscious of our core
values, and value for money will
be one of them with this car, too
Bernhard Maier Skoda CEO
302bhp coup-crossover concept leads Skodas EV revolution
Four more EVs to follow, with array of plug-in hybrids likely, too
OFFICIAL
the company is keen to emphasise that but its wider and with a longer wheelbase.
the model should not be considered a Suicide doors and a flat floor ensure maximum
fully fledged SUV. Specific design features versatility, while legroom is claimed to be
such as round wheelarches and horizontal seven per cent greater than in the Octavia.
secondary headlights will remain the There are four easy-to-access individual
preserve of what Skoda terms its road cars. seats although the production model
The brands SUVs, meanwhile, will should have five while the dashboard
continue to sport square wheelarches is dominated by a large 12-inch colour
and more vertical secondary lights. touchscreen, with the most advanced
Explaining the decision to design a connectivity yet seen in a Skoda.
model with such sporty styling, Maier The Vision E is powered by two electric
told Auto Express: This mixture of sporty motors with a total output of 225kW
crossover limousine was the way to go. It
also shows our new direction in exterior Insiders have confirmed
design, with more emphasis on lighting.
Under the skin, the Vision E is based
that plug-in versions of the
on the VW Groups MEB platform, which Kodiaq, new Yeti and next
also underpins VWs I.D. concept. At
4,645mm long and 1,550mm tall, the Octavia would be feasible
Vision E is slightly smaller than the Kodiaq,
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Skoda EVs News

new all-electric Skodas

(302bhp), driving all four wheels to give a
TRAILBLAZER range of up to 500km (310 miles). As with
Vision E will be sister car the I.D., the production model is
followed by four likely to come with a range of outputs, while
more EVs, likely its possible to be charged to 80 per cent
to be in sectors capacity in only 30 minutes. The lithium-ion
of the market
battery pack is sited under the floor.
where Skoda
has already The concept signals Skodas first step into
enjoyed success the world of autonomous driving, with level
3 autonomy promised. This means that it
can operate independently in traffic and use
autopilot on the motorway. And Maier
allayed fears tthat such a hi-tech model
could pus
push prices up to an
una
unachievable level.
We are conscious of
our core values, and
value for money will
always be one of
them, with this car,
too. EVs are set to
make up 25 per cent
of Skoda sales by 2025.

5 April 2017 13
Michelin Pilot Sport 4 s
Genuine Passion
Exceptional Drives

Ranked N1 for braking on dry surfaces and excellent on wet surfaces,

the new MICHELIN Pilot Sport 4 S is engineered for superior safety
and performance. Thanks to its Dynamic Response technology and
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and instantaneous responsiveness. Acclaimed by most performance car
makers, its for those who love driving.
For more information and to nd out just how good a sports tyre can be, visit michelin.co.uk
 SEATs future revealed News
Electric SEAT on the way as
brand plans four new models
Big SUV to lead new quartet
Next Mii likely to be first EV We are part of the biggest R&D
Steve Fowler
steve_fowler@dennis.co.uk
sspenders on the planet. We will
@stevefowler ccome with EVs on MEB in 2020
SEAT will launch four all-new cars in LUCA DE MEO Chairman, SEAT
LU
the next few years that will include
the brands first electric models.
The Formentor large SUV (previewed in
Issue 1,466) is one of the four, while another
all-new model will also arrive, likely to be a
crossover with a design that will blur
categories, according to SEAT insiders.
Chairman Luca de Meo told Auto Express
that hes already using an electric version
of the Mii city car (right), based on the VW
e-Up!, for his daily commute from the centre
of Barcelona to the company HQ in Martorell,
on the outskirts of the city. Although de
Meos car is purely a development car,
an updated e-Mii, based on a new version
of the city car due in 2019, is likely to be the
first of the brands electric offerings.
Also expected is an all-electric version
of the next-generation Leon, based on the
e-Golf and its MQB platform, due in 2019.
De Meo also confirmed that the new
OFFICIAL
Ibizas MQB A0 platform is EV-ready and Electric Mii is already
that, too, could spawn an electric version. being tested as SEATs EV
Post-2020, the VW Groups MEB electric programme is accelerated
car platform will open up new possibilities
for SEAT. We are part of the biggest R&D
spender on the planet, de Meo said. And Alejandro Mesonero told us. It gives us reduce the frontal area and make it including on the cars interior. He hinted
we will come with EVs on MEB in 2020. more freedom to do something totally efficient, as every extra km of range helps. that the forthcoming large SUV, the
Although VWs I.D. is likely to be the different something that is pure SEAT. But it will have big wheels and we can Formentor, will preview a new design
first group car to use the new tech, SEAT Because the platform is quite high, do a very upright rear end and sloped language that will come to life in 2019s
will have greater freedom to develop its own due to the batteries, the car will have windscreen. It will be beautiful and very new Leon, a car that will kick-start a
cars off the platform. Its modular and can to be tall, and that means making it thin SEAT. De Meo also hinted that wed see regeneration of the whole SEAT range.
easily change in length, design director due to the aerodynamics we need to more extravagant designs in the near future, PAGE 26: First drive of the new Ibiza

All-new Nissan Leaf shaping up Autonomous cars

NISSAN is well under way with the
development of the next Leaf and our spy
photographers caught the electric family
hatch sporting a thorough redesign ahead
of it being revealed at the end of the year.
Its clear the overall profile of the Leaf
will remain similar to the current model,
but despite the heavy disguise you can
make out its sharper, Micra-inspired front
end. Sleeker front headlamps and a more
aggressive version of Nissans V-motion
grille join with an angular rear end to give a
more daring design than on the current car.
Along with the exterior revamp, Nissan
will also significantly increase the Leafs
electric range, offering larger battery
options, which could see range peak at
will change lives
DRIVERLESS cars will transform the
SPIED lives of six out of 10 people, according
to a new study by the Society of Motor
BOLD FRONT Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Despite heavy The first UK-based study into the
disguise, its impact of connected and autonomous
clear that the vehicles revealed new tech will offer
next-generation freedom to the most disadvantaged,
Leaf will take
including those with disabilities,
cues from new
Micra (tested older people and the young.
on Page 36) Automatic braking and parking and
the cars ability to self-diagnose faults
were cited as features most likely to
reduce stress among all groups.
SMMT chief executive Mike
Hawes claimed: The benefits are
life changing. The challenge now
Automedia

around 300 miles. The Leaf will also be the is to create the conditions that
next model from Nissan to be available with will allow this technology to thrive.
a suite of autonomous driving functions.

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 15

 News Mercedes-AMG GLC 63

Rapid new AMG GLC 63 d

Rapid SUV and Coup race in
model features 503bhp V8
S mo OFFICIAL
James Brodie
James_Brodie@dennis.co.uk
@jimmybrods

MERCEDES-AMG has rolled out a

pair new performance SUVs in the
shape of the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63
and GLC 63 Coup. Both hot SUVs feature
Mercs advanced 4MATIC+ four-wheel-
drive as standard and are powered by
a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8.
The GLC 63 is a fresh rival for the Porsche
Macan Turbo, while the Coup establishes
a new segment for high-performance
Coup SUVs. Under the bonnet sits
AMGs trusty hand-built V8 bi-turbo engine,
producing 469bhp and 650Nm of torque.
That means the new GLC 63 pumps out
35bhp more than the most potent Macan.
For those after more punch, however,
both the GLC 63 and GLC 63 Coup will
be offered in more powerful S guise,
which raises output to 503bhp. Regardless
of spec, power is delivered to the 4MATIC+ Both models are
system via AMGs new Speedshift nine-
speed automatic gearbox.
powered by AMGs
Mercedes has yet to reveal just how fast 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8
from 0-62mph the GLC 63 is, but dont be
surprised to see a figure around the four
second mark. As ever, top speed is
electronically limited to 155mph. rear-wheel-drive. Its possible for the driver styling tweaks. At the front is a new grille
The 4MATIC+ four-wheel-drive set-up to influence the characteristics of the car similar to the AMG GT, with thick, chromed
features the same variable torque though, with a range of selectable driving vertical slats, more aggressive front and rear
distribution as seen on the new AMG modes. Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus and bumpers, plus new side skirts, a new spoiler
E 63. Torque can be split between the Individual settings modify engine response, lip and 20-inch alloys. A performance sports
front and rear axle to optimise traction suspension set-up, gear shift times, the exhaust also comes as standard.
in certain driving conditions, but its steering and traction control settings and Both models will make their debut at
heavily rear biased the rear wheels also the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system. this months New York Motor Show, before
are permanently driven, and in The GLC 63 stands out compared to going on sale in June. First deliveries
most circumstances the GLC 63 is the rest of the GLC range with several bold are scheduled for September.

All-new SsangYong
Rexton revealed
SSANGYONG has pulled the wraps off a
new version of its flagship Rexton SUV at its
home motor show in Seoul, South Korea.
The latest vehicle to carry the Rexton
badge first seen on a SsangYong in 2001
gets a new body-on-frame structure
and a fresh diesel engine and gearbox
combination, in a bid to take on everything
from the Hyundai Santa Fe to the Ford Edge.
The new Rexton is 4,850mm long
about 150mm longer than the Hyundai
but the SsangYong is wider and has
a longer wheelbase, too. Its styling
takes cues from the Tivoli notably
the crease that falls along its flanks,
and the distinctive hump above the
rear wheelarch but it has a more
grown-up look at the front end.
SsangYong will offer the Rexton
in five and seven-seat configurations
all with four-wheel drive and, most
probably, a diesel unit. This is likely to
be a 182bhp 2.2-litre engine developing
420Nm of torque. A new 222bhp
2.0-litre turbo petrol has been launched,
but is unlikely to be offered in the UK.
REX FACTOR
New Rexton takes
Inside, an eight-inch infotainment system styling cues from
will be the starting point on the Rexton, and Tivoli, including
higher-spec models will get a 9.2-inch display. crease on flanks
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and hump over
will be offered. The car goes on UK sale in rear wheelarch
the autumn priced from around 27,000.

16 5 April 2017
 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 News

duo at the double SPORTY

news
inbrief
Aggressive
updates mark
new AMG
models out,
including new
grille inspired
by AMG GT

Undercover debut
for new Mgane RS
RENAULT has teased its forthcoming
Megane RS, after posting a cloaked
image of the hot hatch online (above).
The teaser gives little away, but
does confirm that well see the car
for the first time later this year; the
Frankfurt Motor Show in September is
likely to be the stage for the debut of the
new Civic Type R rival. However, its not
expected to go on sale until early 2018.
Its thought the RS will be front-wheel
drive and develop around 300bhp.

Mazda names its

price for next CX-5
MAZDA has confirmed its new CX-5
crossover will start from 23,695. Sales
are due to begin at the end of June.
That buys a 163bhp 2.0-litre
petrol model in SE-L Nav trim. Two
diesel options will also be available
from launch, both making use
of the same 2.2-litre engine.
The lesser-powered 148bhp
version starts from 25,695 in SE-L Nav
spec, while a Sport Nav model with
173bhp will go on sale from 31,395.

Insurance shake-up to benefit drivers
CHANGES to car insurance renewal
documents that came into force
last week could save motorists
up to 103million a year.
As of 1 April, insurers are now obliged
to inform policyholders how much
they currently pay for their cover when
sending out renewal reminders, in order
to increase transparency and fairness.
Previously, drivers were only told how
much theyll have to pay for the forthcoming
year, leading many to pay over the odds by
simply auto-renewing. New wording must
be clear, accurate and in a prominent place.
The new Financial Conduct Authority
(FCA) rules also mean insurers have to
include a message to those who have
been with the firm for four consecutive
years or more, stating they may be able
to get the policy cheaper if they shop
around. The new rules apply to general
insurance products including car and
home cover, with the FCA estimating it
will save consumers between 64m
and 103m per year. Some parts of the
First glimpse of
Hyundais Juke rival
HYUNDAI has confirmed that its
Nissan Juke-rivalling crossover will be
called the Kona. The new model has
been teased with a close-up of the
headlight (below), which features a
design unlike anything currently in
Hyundais product range.
The name is a reference to the
Korean district on the island of
Hawaii, while the model will join the
manufacturers SUV portfolio, sitting
beneath the Tucson and Santa Fe. The
Kona is scheduled to be revealed in
June, before going on sale in October.
industry want regulators to go further,
and dictate that insurers advise
motorists to shop around every year.
GoCompare figures reveal annual
savings of 258 are possible.

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 17

 News Breakdown figures revealed
Flat tyres lead breakdow
Lack of spare wheels on new cars leaving motorists stranded
Martin Saarinen
Martin_Saarinen@dennis.co.uk
AE_Consumer
SCRAPPING spare wheels from
standard kit on new cars, combined
with the rise of dangerous potholes on
UK roads, has led to roadside breakdowns
rising by almost 200,000 last year.
The AA recorded 3.63million calls
last year, up from 3.45m in 2015. The
breakdown provider said much of this
was down to the fact more new cars
have ditched spare wheels in favour of
run-flat tyres or a bottle of tyre sealant.
Last year, the RAC and the AA attended
nearly 180,000 calls where a motorist had a
flat tyre, but had no spare. In fact, a third of
new cars today are sold without a spare, as
car makers look to save on space and
weight. President of the AA, Edmund King
told Auto Express he would like to see
spares as at least an option on new cars
to help prevent motorists from being
stranded at the roadside.
Punctures are becoming increasingly
common as motorists battle against failing
roads (see opposite). The UK currently
faces a 14-year backlog on pothole repairs,
with the most recent reports showing a
19 per cent drop in repairs by local
councils across England and Wales.
A survey of more than 25,000 drivers last
year found 39 per cent had suffered tyre
damage from hitting a pothole. The AA said
the number of tyre-related callouts had
steadily been rising, and is currently the
top reason for a call-out usurping battery
faults at the top of the charts. To combat
VWs to bring emotion to autonomous design
DESIGN bosses at VW Group have told Auto
Express there is potential for huge variety
and emotion in the design of the brands
future autonomous vehicles, as different
models will have distinct purposes.
The VW Group has opened up a new
Future Centre in Europe, built specifically
to develop technology for the companys
range of future autonomous vehicles.
Around 130 engineers are based there.
Jrgen Michl, head of exterior design
research at the facility, revealed that the
VW Sedric concept (right) is merely a
showcase for one of a wide variety of
different body styles that can be made.
We are not just focusing on Sedric
that is a car designed to operate in a
city and to be shared by service users,
which is why it looks like it does. For
other cars doing longer distance trips,
18 5 April 2017
this, the RAC and AA have both developed
multi-fit spare wheels that patrols can fit
to 90 per cent of cars in an emergency.
King added: Potholes often affect two
tyres front and rear on the same side
so if a car does have a spare, then the
patrols multi-fit wheel is invaluable.
King also pointed out that even drivers
who own cars with a spare tyre arent
always able to change it by themselves,
or dont have the basic knowledge of
how to do it. Big SUVs, for example,
come with a tyre that can be too heavy
for some people to lift, and they
therefore call us for help, added King.
One potential solution is greater
education for drivers on basic car
maintenance, like changing a wheel. Neil
Greig, policy and research director at IAM
RoadSmart, said the skill should feature
as part of additional driving tuition for
motorists, although he ruled out
including it as part of the driving test.
He told Auto Express: Many drivers
told us they often dont know much
about how their car works and how to
look after it. Changing a tyre is a life skill
that can save valuable time sitting on
the roadside waiting for help.
Greig also said that there should
be more help for motorists to look
after their tyres, especially as the
condition of UK roads worsens.
He added: Its difficult today for
drivers to properly look after their tyres.
Garages and forecourts should offer
more free air points so drivers can
keep their tyres correctly inflated.
aerodynamics will be more important,
with low, sleek shapes possible.
Michl claimed there could be two, four
and six-seat models built under several of
the VW Groups brands, and level-five full
autonomy will arrive before 2030. Any VW
brand, including Audi, Skoda, Porsche and
even Bentley can use the new Future Centre
(one of three globally) to evaluate which
bits of technology they want to use.
The new research methods are said to be
totally focused on the user experience,
with projects to offer mobility solutions for
the visually impaired also under way.
OPINION
Crackers Patel
RAC patrolman
PUNCTURE repairs are the most
common call-outs alongside
cars that wont start, and they
can prove time consuming.
A lot of people dont even know
if they have a spare wheel. They
have a brand new car, and when
you say this model doesnt have a
spare, they roll their eyes. People
assume its the law to have a spare,
but when they go to show you,
theres a moment of realisation.
They feel theyve been ripped
off by the dealer, as nobody has
told them theres no spare. Some
people will have it happen once,
and then with their next car they
will specifically ask for a spare,
even if its only a space saver.
If they have a spare, people are
more unlikely to attempt to change
it these days, because they are
scared of something going wrong.
Sometimes theyll come across
locking wheel nuts and wont
know what to do. Theres a fear
factor, as well as a general lack
of knowledge and confidence.
A lot of people dont
even know if they
have a spare wheel
VWs Sedric concept is far from the only kind of autonomous
vehicle design that its new Future Centre will be working on
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Breakdown figures
res revealed News
e s

wn call-outs
OFFICIAL
SURPRISE
Owners usually dont realise
their car doesnt have a
spare until its nneeded
Road conditions at James
Batchelor
their all-time worst James_Batchelor@dennis.co.u
James_Batchelor@dennis.co.uk
o.uk
@JRRBatchelor
@JRRBatch
tchelo
elor

Videowatch
NEARLY a fifth of local roads in England and
Wales face closure over the next few years
unless potholes are filled, a report has warned.
Researchers found 18 per cent of local roads We take the Vauxhall Insignia
are now classed as poor the lowest rating on a European road trip and
possible as a result of decades of falling give the Kia Picanto a spin at
funding, rising traffic levels and bad repairs. The youtube.com/Autoexpress.
annual Asphalt Industry Alliance (AIA) report
warned these roads had less than five years of
life left before their condition deteriorates to a
point where they would have to be closed to On the road with
traffic. Councils spent 102million to fill 1.7m the new Insignia
potholes last year, but thats just a fraction of
the total 12billion backlog of work needed.
Alan Mackenzie, chairman of the AIA, said:
Our local roads are an asset worth in excess
of 400billion but, at present, less than one
per cent of their value is spent annually on
maintenance. The message is clear: our local
roads are failing and its time we had a rethink
about how to adequately fund them in future.
Risk of skidding on roads in England and Wales IT was only revealed a few weeks
is also at an all-time high, according to figures ago at the Geneva Motor Show,
from the Department for Transport. Theres a but weve already tried out the new
26 per cent risk of skidding on a main road, the Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport.
highest since stats were first recorded a decade Its a crucial car for the firm, as it
ago. London boroughs were worst, with nearly eyes up taking on premium brands
half of roads needing further investigation. for the first time. With this in mind,
Steve Sutcliffe went for a road trip
Local roads have a backlog from Geneva through Germany and
visited the HQs of Audi, BMW and
of repairs costing 12billion Mercedes to see if the car is a match.

Kia Picanto has

plenty of Seoul

BMW readies hot M8 super coup

WHILE the resurrection of the 8 Series
coup is thrilling enough for many BMW
fans, our spy photographers have spotted
something to get even more excited about;
BMW will make an M Division-tuned version
of the new 8 Series, which should take
on the M8 name and pack M5 levels of
performance when it lands in 2018.
These spy shots taken at Germanys
Nrburgring afford our first look at the
Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coup rival. They
reveal that the new 8 Series will be a very
SPIED
THE city car class is hotting up, and
a potential favourite is the Kia
Picanto, driven on Page 30.
With a spacious interior, long
warranty and daring looks, the
Picanto could rise to the top. Head
over to our YouTube channel to see
more of the Korean newcomer.
CarPix

large car, but the setting suggests BMW

is hard at work making the performance
coup as agile and dynamic as possible.
The cars design is still heavily
disguised, but the rakish coup profile of
the M8 is hard to hide. Up front sits a pair
of trademark kidney grilles, positioned
above a set of large vents and channels
cut into the front bumper, necessary to
feed the mules powerful engine.
Its more aggressive than the standard
8 Series weve already spied, but theres
little else differentiate the faster version
You can watch
for now. We expect to find running gear any of our videos
from the next M5 under the M8s bonnet. on your phone
As such, a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 Simply scan
producing over 600bhp and a rear-biased this QR code.
four-wheel-drive system should appear.

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 19

 Watchdog
We get behind the stories that affect you
Leanne was frustrated
at early failure of
her Astras clutch
Clutch failure raises
questions on warranty
CASE STUDY Astra needed new clutch after two years, but reader disputes it was wear and tear
Julie Sinclair
WHEN you buy a new car, the warranty
paperwork will explain some wear-and-tear
items simply arent covered: the clutch is a
good example. A driver could wear a clutch
out very quickly if they were determined,
so lifespan can vary dramatically depending
on your driving style. For that reason,
clutches, tyres, windscreen wipers and
brakes are typically excluded from a
manufacturers new car guarantees.
But in the case of a clutch, how can you
be sure its a heavy-footed driving style,
and not a rogue manufacturing fault thats
caused premature wear? Thats the question
reader Leanne Szutarski of Dagenham, Essex,
asked Auto Express, after the clutch in her
Vauxhall Astra failed at just under two years
old and with 22,000 miles on the clock.
We told her the only way to be sure is to
have the part examined by a dealer, or an
independent specialist. But she says local
dealer Vauxhall Romford wanted her to
authorise a payment of 1,100 before it
would even examine the part. That would
cover labour and replacement, if the
problem was caused by wear and tear.
Leanne, whos an optometry student, had
bought the car on a five-year finance deal,
and said: The whole reason I decided to
buy a new car was because the monthly
20 5 April 2017
Joe
Finnerty
Finance paperwork is
a massive headache.
Where is the digital help?
THE line between vehicles and
smartphones is becoming
increasingly blurred, as the Internet of
Things connects everything around us.
And the method of buying or owning
these products is aligning, too, as
manufacturers offer online options.
But there is one anomaly: nance.
Monthly contracts, rather than
outright cash, now account for eight
out of 10 new cars bought. Personal
contract hire (PCH) and leasing is
increasingly popular as consumers
seek competitive monthly prices with
no desire to own the car at the end.
A report on the 2016 market by
ContractHireAndLeasing.com also
reveals the most popular term length
was two years (59.2 per cent) with just
one in 10 opting for a four-year deal.
It seems we have become so used to
refreshing products like phones after
just two years that its now carrying
over into car ownership, too. The idea
of buying a vehicle with cash from a
dealer is starting to seem old-fashioned.
FAULTY Despite this, car nance is still
Vauxhall stated stuck in the past, with reams of
that clutch had paperwork, rather than easy digital
worn out, but contracts. According to nancial
Leanne was technology company Intelligent
surprised this Environments, half of car buyers are
happened in left scratching their heads due to the
only two years complex processes they have to go
through to apply for vehicle nancing.
Compare that to smartphones,
where I recently had to upgrade and
could do so without even speaking to
a human, instead using website chat
services and online form lling.
Its not for everyone, of course, but
it was hassle free. Perhaps this can be
Her local dealer wanted inspect the failed part, who deemed the the next area where the automotive
clutch failure to be down to wear and tear. industry merges with technology
to authorise a payment of These items are not covered under the to further benet the consumer.
1,100 before it would terms of Vauxhalls New Vehicle Warranty.
Leanne decided to cut her losses and Joe_Finnerty@dennis.co.uk
even examine the part take her car to an independent garage in @AE_Consumer
Hackney, east London. She told us: It said
the clutch had worn prematurely, too, but it
payments on this one were manageable on only charged me 540 to replace the part. Car finance is still stuck
a budget, and I didnt want to have to worry Thats half the price Vauxhall was quoting.
about huge, unexpected bills. I just dont She said she ensured the garage only in the past, with reams
think the clutch should have worn so soon. used authorised parts for the repair, which of paperwork rather than
We called Vauxhall to ask if it knew why is a requirement of her warranty terms. We
her clutch had failed. Its spokesman simply also advised her to keep the old clutch, in easy digital contracts
said: Vauxhall sent a field engineer out to case she wanted to take her case further.
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Inbox What do you think?
Contact Martin Saarinen

HOT TOPIC Suzuki Swift driven

FROM: Robbie SUZUKI has a good
reputation for reliability and build
quality, so 13,750 for a Swift that is
fully loaded with kit and gets a mild
Underfunding
hybrid engine seems good value to me.
could see road
How much would you pay for a fully
upgrades canned
loaded Ford Fiesta or Skoda Fabia?
FROM: MrKash THE Suzuki Swift
does have two advantages over its
Volkswagen Group rivals: four-wheel
drive and super low weight. Apart from
the microscopic rear windows, I think
the design of this new Swift is okay
compared with its rivals, too.

Poor planning puts HIT OR

MISS?
Readers are

road upgrades at risk divided over

Suzukis all-
new Swift

An additional 841m is needed to fund Governments plans

Joe Finnerty
MULTI-million pound upgrades
to Englands busiest roads could be
scrapped, after a financial watchdog
said they were not value for money.
The National Audit Office (NAO),
which scrutinises Government
spending, said projects on 16
routes were on hold to make
sure they are affordable. The
plans were part of an 11.4billion
investment announced in 2014.
The Five-year Road Investment
Strategy featured 112 major
projects to begin before 2020,
such as smart motorway upgrades
and converting single-carriageway
A-roads to dual carriageways.
The NAO report stated that by
August last year, the amount by
which forecast costs exceeded
available funding had reached
841m. Highways England, which
is responsible for major roads,
has identified the 16 schemes
that could be cancelled, delayed
or redesigned, the NAO said.
The NAO ruled that many
problems were caused by plans
being rushed ahead of the May
2015 general election. This meant
some were filed in just 17 months,
compared with the 30 months
spent on similar rail planning.
Amyas Morse, head of the NAO,
said: Decisive action needs to be
taken before the updated delivery
plan is published if shortcomings
are not to be carried over into
future road investment.
LEGAL
EXPERT
Joanne Lezemore
Solicitor
www.consumer-genie.co.uk
WHEN you buy a car from a trader,
you are covered by the Consumer Rights
Act, which says the vehicle must be of
satisfactory quality and fit for its purpose
and the Act sets out exactly what your
consumer rights are, if, for whatever
reason, things start to go wrong.
But you do not have the same
consumer protection when buying
a car from an individual nor do you
have the right to go back and get
a refund or a repair if the car goes
wrong after youve purchased it.
When you buy privately, it is a case
of buyer beware. The only rights you
have is that the car must be as described
by the seller, whether thats verbally
or in an advert. If it is not, you do have
protection under the Misrepresentation
Act, but getting your money back
may not be easy especially if
claims are based on verbal promises.
It is not a case of never buying
from an individual seller, but more
a case of making sure you ask lots of
questions about the car and its history.
If you can, write down the questions
and answers, and ask the seller to
sign it that way you will have good
evidence if the car does not meet that
description and you need to claim.
Join the debate at www.autoexpress.co.uk
Japanese interiors are I think it looks great Suzuki has always been
years behind Europes; they overall, but I cant help conservative with its
dont seem to understand thinking the old model 0-60mph times. This Swift
soft-touch dashboards or looks better from the rear. could probably do it in
premium detailing. E Monk Whats my name? nine seconds. Someone
Are dog harnesses Head-up display feels
for cars safe enough? as unsafe as mobiles
FROM: Dan Martindale MANY pet stores FROM: Lionel Lewis THE new Navdy
sell small, cheap harnesses for dogs that heads-up display is a step too far for me
clip directly into the seatbelt. It would be (Issue 1,463). I cant believe its legal to
interesting to know how much protection read your text messages on the HUD
they actually offer, for both the animal while driving. Surely this results in the
and the car, as some look like they would same loss of concentration as when
be quite dangerous in an accident. reading them on your phone?
DS seems promising Lack of dealerships
but needs to improve dampens Alfa appeal
FROM: Jeremy Bingham I WAS interested to FROM: Richard Evans LIKE many Auto
read about the new DS 7 Crossback. My Express readers, Im very impressed with
father owns a DS 5, and I agree that the the new Alfa Giulia. It appears to have
brand makes beautiful and easy to drive everything good looks, plenty of
cars, but its missing out on good performance, and itll hopefully be
aftersales care. My father has had quite a reliable. The only thing missing is a big
few issues with his dealer, and I think network of Alfa dealers. Id have to travel
this is an area DS needs to work on. quite far for a service if I took the plunge.

Useful
THE following provide help
with motoring problems.
Some services are free,
Legal Used car inspections Car registration/history Problems with dealers Problems with makers
AA: 0345 850 1130 (m) AA: 0800 056 8040 HPI: 01722 422422 The Motor Ombudsman: The Motor Ombudsman:
RAC: 0330 159 1446 (m) RAC: 0330 159 0720 AA: 0800 316 3564 0345 241 3008 0345 241 3008
DVLA: 0300 790 6802 Consumer Ombudsman: Financial problems

Contacts
others charge a fee or
operate on premium-rate
lines (p), while some offer
advice for members only (m).
Which?: 01992 878329
Citizens Advice Consumer
helpline: 03454 040506
Local Trading Standards
Local Citizens Advice Bureau
Technical advice
RAC: 0330 159 0364 www.consumer- Financial Ombudsman:
AA: 0370 142 0002 (m) ombudsman.org
Traffic information RMIF: 0845 305 4230
0800 023 4567
Driving licences AA: 0906 888 4322 Safety concerns/recalls
Scottish Motor Trade
DVLA: 0300 790 6801 RAC: 09003 444999 (p) Association: 0131 331 5510 DVSA: 0300 123 9000

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 21

 Insidestory
A different take on the world of motoring

Qashqai
Martin Saarinen
Martin_Saarinen@dennis.co.uk
@AE_Consumer

IF the ice breaks, you have between 10 and 60

seconds to leave the car before it sinks. If you
cant open the doors, go through the windows or the
roof. These were the stern instructions from the man
representing the Russian Ministry for Emergency Situations
just before we headed out on to the frozen surface of the
deepest lake in the world in a Nissan Qashqai.
Lake Baikal in Siberia is an odd place to find yourself
in a car originally intended for the European market, but
when the Qashqai was launched back in 2007, no one
could have predicted just how successful the crossover
would become, or the remote corners of the world it
would end up in. Today, the Sunderland-built Qashqai
has moved far outside European borders and is sold in
99 countries around the world, from Antigua to Australia.
To coincide with the 10-year anniversary of the Qashqai,
and the launch of a new facelifted model later this year,
Auto Express took the current, second-generation version
into the wildest parts of Russia. Nissan started production
of the Qashqai here in 2015, and we were keen to find out
how its evolved from a European crossover to a car thats
conquered global sales charts in just a decade.
Initially the Qashqai wasnt even the car that Nissan
intended to build. Back in 2002, a new version of the
Almera was planned, but the company came to the
conclusion that the poor-selling family car was unlikely to
turn a profit, even with a new look. Around the same time,
SUVs were rising in popularity, but some buyers were put
off by their large proportions and high running costs.
So, instead of a new Almera, Nissan decided to
design and build a car that would break down some
of the barriers to SUV ownership. To do just that, it
began incorporating the low running costs, compact
dimensions and agile handling of a hatchback with
Nissan combined the dimensions of
a hatchback with the ride height of
an SUV to make the first crossover
10 YEARS ON TOP OF THE WORLD
Its now a decade since the Nissan Qashqai revolutionised the car market.
To celebrate, we took it to one of the most extreme environments on the
planet where it showcased the talents that have made it a top seller
the tall ride height of an SUV, creating one of the worlds
first-ever crossovers. The UK played a major part in the
design, engineering and building of the Qashqai, too.
Much of the design work was funneled through
Nissans Design Centre Europe, which is based in London,
while the companys European Technical Centre in
Cranfield, Beds, was tasked with developing the
engineering framework only the second time in its
history that the centre had been commissioned by Japan
to lead the development of a model from scratch.
The companys Sunderland plant then won the bid
to build the Qashqai, with an initial production target of
120,000 cars a year. But there were fears that the crossover
would struggle to sell, and that total was optimistic.
Would buyers see the car as the best of both SUV and
hatchback worlds, or would it fall short of both marks?
The worries were unfounded, however, as the crossover
quickly proved popular. Nissan had to increase production
to 160,000 in the first year, with the Sunderland plant
running three shifts a day to keep up with demand.
Today, the crossover segment that the Qashqai created
as well as SUVs account for over a quarter of all new car
sales around the world. And our location, deepest Siberia
near the Mongolian border, is perhaps the most extreme

22 5 April 2017
 Inside story

BIG HIT
In Russia, the Qashqai Mk2 gets
Our reporter
Saarinen went
higher ground clearance, softer
to Russia to
see how the
suspension and wider dimensions
Qashqai has
taken over the
global market example of what the crossover has to cope with on a
daily basis. With temperatures easily dropping below
-35 degrees Celsius in winter and roads punctured by
thousands of potholes, the crossover has to cope with a lot
more than the average Sunday supermarket run in Surrey.
Weve adapted the Qashqai to suit the different driving
conditions in Russia, said Mikhail Vakhrushev, Nissans
product manager in Russia. Although Russias first-
generation Qashqai was nearly identical to the European
model, the second-generation, which is now also
produced in Nissans St Petersburg plant, was adapted
from the ground up to better suit local driving.
To deal with the rougher roads, the Qashqai Mk2 was
built with 200mm higher ground clearance and softer
suspension. It was also made wider to improve stability
on poor roads. As we drive through the Siberian town
of Irkutsk, we quickly find out why these changes were

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 23

 Inside story
RUSSIAS SUNDERLAND
SUNDERLAND isnt the only powerhouse behind the
Qashqai. In 2009, Nissan opened up a new factory
in St Petersburg, Russia, to help fill the global order
books alongside its UK and Japanese plants.
The plant originally built the X-Trail, Murano
and Pathfinder, but in 2015, the Qashqai Mk2
was added to the production lines.
Today, the 2,000 employees at St Petersburg
build 95 per cent of all the Qashqais sold in
Russia. Since 2015, 21,450 Qashqais have
rolled off the line. In fact, a 2.0-litre Qashqai
was the plants 250,000th vehicle, with more
than 375 million parts, 2,000 tons of paint and
28,300 working hours invested since 2009.
A 2.0-litre Qashqai was the
plants 250,000th vehicle
24 5 April 2017
Qashqai on top of the world
No more than an hour after the safety speech from the Ministry for
Emergency Situations did we see our Qashqai fall with the moving ice
necessary. The roads appear as if theyve been
abandoned for the last decade with barely any markings
visible, while ankle-deep potholes are impossible to avoid
due to their sheer quantity. The roads also have a habit of
switching from a paved surface to a dirt track unexpectedly.
To deal with the inevitable flat tyres, Russian Qashqais
come as standard with a full-sized spare wheel.
And while nearly every second car bought in the UK
is a diesel, just five per cent of all cars sold in Russia are.
The quality of diesel can be quite bad in the country, so
people opt for petrol cars instead, explains Vakhrushev.
To cope with the freezing temperatures, all models get
a heated windscreen as standard, while those equipped
with a parking camera come with a self-cleaning spray to
remove muck from the lens that easily accumulates from
the many dirt tracks that snake through the Siberian plateau.
But roads made of tarmac or gravel arent the
only place a Qashqai owner might find themselves
driving across in Russia, or indeed any of the other
Arctic countries the car is sold in. Many of the lakes
and rivers freeze in the harsh temperatures and
are turned into temporary crossings for motorists.
So we found ourselves driving on Lake Baikal, the
deepest and oldest lake in the world. It contains roughly
20 per cent of the worlds unfrozen fresh water,
is estimated at 25million years old, and is over a mile
deep. Several hovercrafts are spotted crossing the
frozen lake, but every now and then youll spot a
local or two driving across in anything from an
old Soviet-era Lada to a new Toyota Land Cruiser.
It was no more than an hour after the safety
speech from the Russian Ministry for Emergency
Situations that we stopped and parked our Qashqai on
the ice. As we stood nearby, we suddenly heard a
sound similar to an explosion. Some of the ice sheets
had just cracked and as we struggled for balance,
we saw our car tip with the moving ice.
The raised ride height helped it stay afloat, but it
was firmly stuck, so we had to wave for rescue. A four-man
team from the Ministry of Emergency Situations arrived in
their six-wheeled rescue vehicle, smashed through the
cracked ice sheet and winched the car to safety.
It just goes to show that while the 10-year-old
British-built Qashqai might not have worked out how to
conquer nature just yet, it seems theres no stopping
its continued dominance of the global sales charts.
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 New cars
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives
30 NEW PICANTO
Kias third-generation
city car gets improved
looks and technology.

Essentials DRIVING
On the road,
SEAT Ibiza the Ibiza has a
1.0 TSI 115PS FR grown-up feel
Price: 16,630 thats been
missing from the
Engine: 1.0-litre 3cyl turbo petrol
supermini class
Power/torque: 113bhp/200Nm
Transmission: Six-speed manual,
front-wheel drive
0-62mph: 9.3 seconds
Top speed: 121mph
Economy: 60.1mpg
CO2: 108g/km DRIVING Ibiza feels extremely grown-up PRACTICALITY Boot space is
ON SALE Now on the road, with excellent refinement. The
gearshift is slick and easy, and the steering
generous, and beats a Ford Focus
from the class above. Theres room
positive and secure, if lacking in feel. Ride in the rear for two big adults or three
was firm in FR trim, but not uncomfortable kids, making longer journeys a doddle

SEAT Ibiza
Running costs
60.1mpg (official)
48 fill-up

Performance
0-62mph/top speed
9.3 seconds/121mph

FIRST DRIVE Rejuvenated supermini leads VWs small car revolution

Steve Fowler
steve_fowler@dennis.co.uk
@stevefowler
WHOD have thought it? SEAT, for
so long the problem child of the VW
Group, is flying. Sales are soaring, thanks
in no small part to the brilliant Ateca SUV
(with two more SUVs coming in the next
12 months), and now the Ibiza supermini
has been chosen to debut the Groups
latest small car technology.
This is the first model to use the new
MQB A0 platform, with all the lightweight
and hi-tech benefits that brings. Yes, Ibiza
before VW Polo, Audi A1, Skoda Fabia and a
host of SUV spin-offs. That would have been
most unlikely a few years ago. However, as
SEATs tend to be pretty much as good as
their sister cars, but usually with a style
and price advantage, whats not to like?
With the new Ibiza, not much. That MQB
platform means the car is roomier than
before, in spite of being a fraction (2mm)
shorter. Its 87mm wider and slightly
lower than the old car, with the wheelbase
stretched by 95mm great in numbers
and pretty impressive in reality, too. The
car looks lower, wider and meaner (the
previous car was a bit tall and thin),
while inside theres surprising space.
Up front therell be no complaints about
head, leg or shoulder room, while in the
back a couple of burly friends or three kids
will be very happy. Access is pretty good,
too, despite the three-door model being
ditched (along with the ST estate version)
leaving just this five-door and the upcoming
Arona SUV sharing the same platform.
Miraculously, boot space has also been
boosted to 355 litres. That makes it roomier
than a Ford Focus, and probably much
bigger than the soon-to-be-launched Fiesta.
The floor can be levelled for easier loading
or drop for maximum capacity, too.
So all is looking good so far, and
things get even better when it comes

26 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

 Newcars
INTERIOR
Sharp creases
from outside
follow through
to inside. Dash
plastics are hard,
but feel okay
SEAT expects buyers to be attracted to the SE Technology model, which comes with a large colour touchscreen and built-in sat-nav
offer. The scrimpers have visited SEAT
elsewhere it costs 150 to get Apple
CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity on all
but FR and Xcellence models. Keeping the
costs down also means some of the plastics
on the dash and door tops dont have the
squishy feel you might like. They look fine,
and feel okay to the touch its just when
you prod them that theres no give. For us,
it wouldnt be a reason not to buy this car.
The way the car drives, though, is one
of the biggest reasons to put the Ibiza on
your supermini shopping list. As with every
other VW Group MQB car, the Ibiza has a
grown-up feel to it that this sector hasnt
seen before. Its quiet very quiet. Our car
had the 114bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder
The way the car drives is one of the biggest
reasons to put the Ibiza on your shopping list
28 5 April 2017
SEAT Ibiza
turbo engine thats punchy (0-62mph in
9.3 seconds), frugal (claimed 60.1mpg
average) and refined. Theres a bit of a
three-cylinder growl if you push hard, but
most of the time things are really hushed.
At a cruise, youll hear the wind rushing
past the angular door mirrors, but thats
more due to the overall silence inside
rather than excessive wind noise.
The gearshift is slick and easy, while the
steering is positive and secure, but without
much in the way of feel another MQB trait.
The FR trim that this engine comes with in
the UK rides slightly firmer than other models
thanks to its 17-inch alloys and stiffer
suspension, yet its not uncomfortable
over bumps and it eliminates the tiny bit
of body roll youll notice in other versions.
There are Normal and Sport settings,
too, although in reality youll be hard
pushed to tell the difference between
the two the FR is very much a mild
hatch, bordering on the warm.
Youll eventually be able to get it with
a 148bhp 1.5-litre engine, which we also
tried. Its yet to be homologated so there are
no performance figures yet or prices but
it only marginally improves performance,
while lacking some of the three-cylinder
motors charm. Other engine options
include 74bhp and 94bhp versions of
the three-cylinder engine, while wisely
diesels dont appear on the UK price list.
Talking of which, the starting price
of 13,130 is a little ahead of Fords
new Fiesta, but about par for the
course. The best seller is likely to
be the 15,255 SE Technology model
with the 94bhp 1.0-litre engine.
STYLING
Bold lines make
Verdict
the new Ibiza look
much like a THE Ibiza sets a new benchmark
scaled-down in the supermini sector and, once
Leon but thats monthly finance deals are available
no bad thing to assess, could well achieve a coveted
five-star rating. Its refinement, space,
quality and range of kit will be talking
points, while its sense of style stands
out among some pretty dull rivals.
www.autoexpress.co.uk
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.
AUDI
AUDI RS6 4.0 T V8 690+BHP (+DE-LIMIT) 730D 305+ BHP
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
AUDI Q7/A8 4.2 TDi 400+ BHP
BMW
M5 V10 548+ BHP (205 MPH)
X5M / X6M 618+ BHP
1M 411+ BHP
M3 E90/92 445 BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
M135i/ M235i 402 BHP
M4/M3 3.0T 520+ BHP
M5 F10/M6 (STAGE 1) 680 BHP
M5 F10/M6 (STAGE 2) 730 BHP
F10 520D 240 BHP
F10 530D 305 BHP
335i/135i/X6 370+ BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
123D 252 BHP
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
X5 4.0D / 740D 370 BHP
X5 3.0D 305 BHP
X6 X5.0I 4.4 500+BHP
X6 M50D/X5M50D/550D 450 BHP
A200CDi/C200CDi/E200CDi 175 BHP
A250/C250 260 BHP
A45/CLA45 420 BHP
C300 HYBRID 285 BHP
A220CDi/C220CDi/E220CDi 215 BHP
C350/CLS350/E350/S350 315 BHP
E400 /C450 420+ BHP
C400 400 BHP
63 5.5 Bi-TURBO ALL MODELS 690+BHP
500 4.7 Bi-TURBO ALL MODELS 498+BHP
S65 (W222) 780 BHP
SL65 BLACK 720+ BHP (+DELIMIT)
SL65 AMG 690 BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
55 AMG KOMPRESSOR 580+BHP
C63 AMG 6.3 530+BHP (+DE-LIMIT)
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
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.

SALES@DMSAUTOMOTIVE /DMSAUTOMOTIVE
FOLLOW US FOR OUR LATEST NEWS

WWW.DMSAUTOMOTIVE.COM
WORLDWIDE OFFICES AND INSTALLATION

UK: 0800 030 5555 INT: +44 800 030 5555

 Newcars
Essentials
Kia Picanto 1.0 MPI 3
Price: 12,000 (est)
Engine: 1.0-litre 3cyl petrol
Power/torque: 66bhp/96Nm
Transmission: Five-speed manual,
front-wheel drive
0-62mph: 14.3 seconds
Top speed: 100mph
Economy: 67.2mpg
CO2: 97g/km

ON SALE May

EQUIPMENT Sharp LED lights are

available as an option for the first
time. Customisation will be key to
the Picantos appeal, with five different
interior colour packs to choose from
Performance
0-62mph/top speed
14.3 seconds/100mph

Running costs
67.2mpg (official)
41 fill-up

PRACTICALITY The Picantos 255-litre

boot is three litres bigger than a Hyundai
i10s and its square shape is useful. Buyers
can choose between four or five seats, with
the former helping to reduce CO2 emissions
Richard Ingram
Richard_Ingram@dennis.co.uk
@rsp_ingram
THE Kia Picanto was first launched in
the UK in 2004 as the brands smallest
car. Cheap and cheerful was its selling
point, and it offered buyers style, kit and
space, as well as low running costs.
That model was replaced in 2011 by
the sporty Mk2, which quickly gained
momentum in the city car market. Since
then, newer rivals such as the Skoda Citigo,
Hyundai i10 and Renault Twingo have stolen
the limelight by offering similar value, but
with significantly upgraded interiors and
more grown-up driving experiences.
This new Picanto aims to right the old
cars wrongs, with a spacious cabin, more
equipment and improved customisation.
Three engines will be offered, including
a three-cylinder turbo for the first time.
First impressions are good. While its still
recognisable as Kias dinkiest design, the
Picanto has been thoroughly updated to
KiaPicanto
FIRST DRIVE Stylish new city car aims for the front of the pack
bring it in line with the latest Rio supermini
and Sportage SUV. Its an eye-catching car,
with a bold tiger nose grille, sharp details
and optional LED daytime running lights.
Space inside is impressive. While the
engineers have only added an extra 15mm
to the wheelbase, room in the back is
generous. The car is no longer overall, but
the extra distance between the front and
rear axles allows adults to sit comfortably.
The 255-litre boot is also bigger than youll
find in the Picantos rivals. A Ford Ka+ offers
a bigger load bay with the seats up, but
fold them flat and the Kia trumps it,
thanks to its 1,010-litre total capacity.
The wheels have been pushed to the
corners for a more dynamic look and a
tighter turning circle. This is useful around
town, where it matches the Skoda Citigo for
This new Picanto aims to right the old cars
wrongs, with more equipment and customisation
ease of use. Visibility is also good, with
those short overhangs playing in your
favour when parking and manoeuvring.
Out on the open road, the Picanto feels
solid and refined. We tried the entry-level
1.0-litre non-turbo, which felt a little wheezy
but not as slow as the figures suggest. The
lack of torque is the Kias biggest problem,
as it struggles on taller inclines. A
Volkswagen up! is more fun, but the new
Picanto feels more grown up. On our cars
15-inch wheels the ride was compliant
without being too soft, dealing with
rough surfaces well and never losing
composure. The 16-inch rims on GT Line
cars create a harsher ride, however.
Kias new 98bhp 1.0 T-GDi isnt due to
arrive in the UK until the end of 2017, but
we did try the four-cylinder 1.25-litre car

30 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

 Kia Picanto Newcars

NEED
TO KNOW
Official prices
and specs will be
announced later
this month, and
the turbo model
will go on sale
towards the
end of the year

REAR SEATS
While the Picanto
is the same
length as before,
an extended
wheelbase has
boosted legroom

Build quality is improved, as are the
technology and infotainment systems
on an identical route. While it was better
suited to the hills above Barcelona, the
difference is marginal unless you regularly
travel with four people on board, the 1.0 will
be more than acceptable for your needs.
Quality is much improved, with relatively
plush materials on the doors and dash.
Black cloth comes as standard, but
optional interior packs add a dash of
colour. Our car featured a lairy blue it
wont be to all tastes, but it certainly
stands out. The seven-inch touchscreen
on top-spec models (likely grade 3 and
above) looks great and is more upmarket
than the phone cradle youll find in an up!.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both
included with the screen, giving the Picanto
the tech edge. The big black buttons that
flank the display are logically laid out, too.
Whether the Picanto sinks or swims will
largely come down to costs, and while exact
www.autoexpress.co.uk
prices and specs havent been revealed,
were expecting an increase of around 500
spec-for-spec over the old model. That
means an entry-level Picanto 1 should cost
a little over 9,000, while mid-spec 2 and 3
models will offer impressive kit for a little
extra outlay. Were told a top-of-the-range
GT Line with the 1.25-litre petrol engine will
start from less than 14,000, with the turbo
commanding a premium of around 1,000.
For comparison, a five-door Citigo costs
8,845 and that car is available on some
tempting zero per cent finance deals. As a
result, Kia will have to pull out all the stops
to match its rivals punch for punch.
At least the Picanto can challenge it for
running costs. The standard 1.0-litre car
emits a Citigo-matching 101g/km. However,
there are a number of tweaks that affect the
cars CO2 output, and thus its projected fuel
economy. If you opt for the four-seater youll
save 20kg shaving 10g/km off emissions
and boosting fuel economy by 6.4mpg.
Pennies make the pounds, after all.
Verdict
COST will play a big part in the new
Kia Picantos success, but early
indications suggest itll happily
compete with its city car rivals when
it comes to comfort, quality and
ease of use. Its a more grown-up
alternative to the Renault Twingo,
and its mature manners should see
it give the soon-to-be-updated
Skoda Citigo something to worry
about. Plusher, more refined and
better to drive than its predecessor,
the cheap-to-run Picanto is an
exciting class contender.
5 April 2017 31
 Newcars Volkswagen Golf R
VolkswagenGolfR
FIRST DRIVE Revised range-topping Golf is a brilliant all-round performance car
Sam Naylor
S since its a Golf, it does all the normal stuff
Sam
Sam_Naylor@dennis.co.uk
@SamNaylor_AE
AS part of the recent round of updates
for the ever-popular Volkswagen Golf,
the range-topping R hot hatch has also been
refreshed. Since this is a performance car,
theres been an obligatory power boost,
and the new car now gets 306bhp from
its 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine.
Thats a 10bhp boost over the previous
Golf R, and contributes to a quicker
0-62mph time, which now takes just
4.6 seconds in this DSG version. Get the
R on the road, though, and the numbers
soon melt into the background. With four-
wheel-drive grip and that musclebound
turbocharged engine blasting away up
front, the Golf R is searingly quick.
The seven-speed DSG gearbox changes
up so quickly that youve barely had time
to enjoy the acceleration before youre at
the speed limit. It doesnt feel as frantic
as a Ford Focus RS; its more composed,
especially on bumpy roads. The steering
could be sharper, but its quick enough
and impressive in the bends, with
loads of grip and strong brakes.
For sheer grin-factor, VWs mega-hatch
cant quite match the outgoing Honda Civic
Type R. The engine isnt as exciting to use
and the VW feels heavier, too. But this
flagship model is still one of the most
impressive hot hatches available and,
32 5 April 2017
Golf R offers searing
speed, plenty of grip
and a composed ride
Performance
0-62mph/top speed
4.6 seconds/155mph
Running costs
40.1mpg (official)
65 fill-up
brilliantly as well. The ride is comfortable
more so than the Focus RS and the well
judged driving position and interior layout
mean itll be easy to live with every day.
VWs quoted 40.4mpg economy is good
considering the performance on offer, and
the DSG gearbox means driving in heavy
traffic is easy. The manual offers more
satisfaction on the right road, however.
You get a subtle new look with your 2017
Golf R, thanks to LED headlights, redesigned
vents on the front bumper and scrolling
indicators. VW hasnt given the car a full
overhaul, so you might miss the tweaks.
The new 9.2-inch screen on the inside is
a significant change. The new system looks
great and works much like a tablet, and is
much more responsive than the old unit. Large 9.2-inch touchscreen is a vast improvement, but is fiddly to operate on the move
But as on the standard car (Issue 1,466),
there arent enough physical buttons, and
its annoying to operate on the move.
You can also use the standard Active
Info Display behind the steering wheel,
though, which is a great feature that can
be customised just the way you want it.
The 343-litre boot is smaller than in the
standard Golf, due to this cars four-wheel-
drive system, though theres still room for
big cases. Our five-door car is a sensible
choice, but an estate is also available.
Equipment is good, too, and you get
18-inch alloys, carbon-style interior trim,
sports seats and that big touchscreen.
www.autoexpress.co.uk

Essentials
Volkswagen Golf R
2.0 TSI 5dr DSG
Price: 33,935
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo petrol
Power/torque: 306bhp/400Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch
auto, four-wheel drive
0-62mph: 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 155mph
Economy: 40.4mpg
CO2: 163g/km
ON SALE Now
PRACTICALITY Space in the back
is as good here as it is in any Golf, with
enough room for adults to get comfy.
All models get sports seats, but our
cars Nappa leather is a 2,615 option
BOOT SPACE The 343-litre boot
is marginally smaller than a standard
Golfs, thanks to the cars 4WD system.
Subtle R badges mean this rapid Golf
doesnt shout about its performance
Verdict
THE Golf R is one of the best all-
round performance cars money
can buy, with an incredible mix
of blistering performance,
sharp handling and everyday
practicality. However, its
expensive when compared to
the Ford Focus RS, even though
its arguably a superior all-
rounder. If youre dead set on a
fast Golf, the evergreen GTI is
worth considering, as its just
as much fun to drive and saves
a few thousand pounds, too.
www.autoexpress.co.uk
VolkswagenGolfGTE
FIRST DRIVE Plug-in hybrid version of hatch goes under the knife, too
Lawrence Allan
Lawrence_Allan@dennis.co.uk
@LobAllan
OF the circa 200,000 cars Volkswagen
sold in the UK last year, nearly 77,000
were Golfs. Most boasted one of the brands
petrol or diesel engines, but only a small
fraction used electric or hybrid power.
Its not a huge seller, then, but VWs UK
team are hoping the plug-in GTE will rise to
around 10 per cent of total Golf sales by the
end of 2017. The Government hasnt made
that easy, though: from 1 April, the GTE
went from road tax-free to 130 per year.
Company car users still benefit from lower
rates, but tax avoidance isnt the only reason
to buy the hybrid. Many will be swayed by
the promise of up to 156mpg, 0-62mph
in 7.6 seconds and a 20-mile EV range.
Like other 2017 Golfs, most of the
updates are visual, and even those are
verging on unnoticeable. There are new LED
headlights with the familiar blue strip neatly
integrated into the lenses, as well as revised
bumpers and lightly tweaked tail-lamps.
lamps.
There are more change inside. As
standard, the GTE now comes mes
with an eight-inch infotainment
ment
system, but our test car
featured the new 1,325
Discover Pro system. It gets
Instant torque from electric
motor makes GTE great in townn
Volkswagen Golf GTE Newcars
Essentials
Pete Gibson
Volkswagen Golf GTE
1.4 TSI Advance
Price: 29,635 (inc Gov grant)
Engine: 1.4-litre 4cyl turbo
petrol/electric motor
Power/torque: 201bhp/350Nm
Transmission: Six-speed dual-clutch
auto, front-wheel drive
0-62mph: 7.6 seconds
Top speed: 138mph
Economy: 156.9mpg
CO2: 40g/km
ON SALE Now
NEED
TO KNOW
VED changes
since 1 April
mean that the
GTE is no longer
free to tax. But
company car
drivers will still EQUIPMENT Active Info Display
see big benefits dials are standard and look great.
They flick between battery usage and
revs depending on your driving mode
a 9.2-inch screen like the Golf Rs (left),
voice control, a 64GB hard drive and a three-
year subscription to VWs online services.
Its also the brands first model to come
fitted with gesture control. Its a bit of a PRACTICALITY Unlike the R
(left), the GTE is front-wheel drive.
gimmick to be honest, and not a very
However, the bulky batteries mean
impressive one at that. More often than not, the 272-litre boot is even smaller
it doesnt actually respond to anything, so
youre better off just prodding the screen.
The GTEs powertrain is unchanged,
meaning you get a 1.4-litre turbo petrol
engine paired with an electric motor, with
a combined system output of 201bhp. As
before, there are various modes to allow
you to save, use or charge the batteries.
Its superb around town, pulling away
silently with a wad of on-demand electric
torque making it feel nippy in a straight line.
However, the powertrain isnt quite as
Verdict
convincing on the open road. The GTE THE recent updates to the Golf
doesnt deliver anything like the rev-happy range do little to change our
flexibility or sporty sound of a GTI, while the impression of the GTE. The
onses in corners.
extra weight blunts responses extra cabin tech is beneficial,
if a little tricky to use, while
the same-again styling is
unlikely to disappoint. The
GTE is no hot hatchback, but
it still impresses at lower
speeds and is excellent
around town. Whats more, if
your lifestyle allows, it could
be fantastically cheap to run.
5 April 2017 33
 Newcars Bentley Bentayga Diesel

La
Lawrence Allan
Lawr
Lawrence_Allan@dennis.co.uk
@LobAllan

A TWO-and-a-half tonne Bentley with

a V8 engine thats capable of over
35mpg? Thats from the land of fantasy,
right? In fact thats reality, as weve
driven Bentleys first diesel model in
the UK the Bentayga Diesel.
While the idea of an oil-burning Bentley
may raise eyebrows, there are good reasons
for buying one. Customers who chose the
petrol W12 are unlikely to worry that it barely
musters 20mpg, nor are many likely to be
interested in the diesels lower emissions.
No, this cars real selling point is that itll
manage nearly 600 miles on a tank of fuel.
Compare that to the W12, which might
scrape 350 miles, and you can see the
allure. It means youll only have to deal with
the undignified affair of refuelling twice on a
journey to and from your ski chalet in the
Alps, rather than four times in the W12.
For those who are still sceptical, take a
look at the cars figures. It uses a 4.0-litre
twin-turbo V8 with a 48V electric compressor
to deliver 429bhp. More importantly, theres
a whopping 900Nm of torque on tap from
just 1,000rpm, and the engine is mated to
an eight-speed auto with four-wheel drive.

Hushed
If that sounds like the same engine found in

BentleyBentaygaDiesel
the Audi SQ7, thats because it is. However,
Bentleys engineers claim it has been
heavily reworked for the Bentayga, with
more emphasis placed on refinement. Its
easily the smoothest diesel weve ever
encountered, staying fantastically hushed
almost all of the time, and only emitting a
distant V8 burble under hard acceleration. FIRST UK DRIVE Is this diesel SUV the most contentious Bentley ever built?
Dont think the quest for quietness has
dampened the cars performance, though.
The 0-62mph sprint takes 4.6 seconds and
top speed is 168mph, so the Bentayga stakes
a claim as the fastest production diesel SUV
on sale. However, its the uncannily relaxed
way in which power is delivered that
impresses most. The car rears up and fires
you towards the horizon with only a touch
of wind noise to inform you of your speed.
Once youve become used to the effortless
pace, youll find the Bentayga is impressively
economical when cruising. We managed an
indicated 36mpg on our journey from Crewe
to London, and the engine rarely revved
past 1,500rpm even at the speed limit.
The new V8 appears to have had little
effect on the way the Bentayga rides and
handles. For a near-2.5-tonne behemoth,
its impressively agile, with the Dynamic
Ride electric anti-roll bars keeping the SUV
remarkably level. Its no sports car, but is Hand-crafted interior offers no clues to diesel power, even when youre on the move
as engaging as a Bentley 4x4 needs to be.
The ride is slightly disappointing, though. intrusions quite as well as a Bentley should. exhaust tips and specific wheel designs.
Its far from uncomfortable, but even in its Head off road, and the cars ride height can The interior is identical to the W12s, with
softest setting it doesnt smother surface be raised and a variety of terrain control sumptuous, hand-finished leather and
systems tailor the suspension to suit. Its wood, and vast potential for customisation.
Bentley has reworked not quite as all-conquering as a Range Rover Our car had 70,000 worth of options,
in the rough, but the Bentayga has more off- but you could spend even more than
the 4.0-litre V8 diesel road ability than any owner will ever need. that if you tried hard enough.
with more emphasis Of course, you still get the same divisive The only major flaw with the Bentayga
exterior look as the W12. You can decide is its infotainment. Its an older system
placed on refinement whether you want a diesel badge or not, than Audi uses in the Q7, so it looks dated,
while the only other changes are new and isnt particularly intuitive to use.

34 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

 Bentley Bentayga Diesel Newcars
Essentials Coming soon
Bentley
Bentayga Diesel INFINITI QX50
Price: 137,055 2018
Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo diesel
Nissans premium
brand will launch an
Power/torque: 429bhp/900Nm
Audi Q5 rival next
Transmission: Eight-speed auto year, with a new
four-wheel drive
variable compression
0-62mph: 4.6 seconds turbo petrol engine.
Top speed: 168mph
Economy/CO2: 35.8mpg/210g/km

ON SALE Now SUPERMINIS

Audi A1 2018
BMW i5
BMW X2
2021
early 2018
Ford Fiesta July BMW X3 2018
Ford Fiesta ST 2018 BMW X7 2018
Kia Picanto May Citroen C5 Aircross 2018
Peugeot 208 2018 Dacia Duster 2018
SEAT Ibiza July Dacia Grand Duster 2018
SEAT Mii X-Perience 2018 DS 3 SUV 2018
Suzuki Swift mid 2017 DS 7 Crossback January 2018
Vauxhall Corsa summer 2018 Hyundai small SUV late 2017
Volkswagen Polo 2018 Infiniti QX50 2018
Volkswagen up! GTI early 2018 Jaguar Baby F-Pace 2018
FAMILY CARS
Jaguar I-Pace SUV 2018
Alfa Romeo executive saloon 2018 Jeep baby SUV 2019
Audi A3 2019 Jeep Compass summer
Audi A6 2018 Jeep Grand Wagoneer 2018
Audi A6 Avant 2018 Kia Rio SUV 2018
Audi A6 Allroad 2018 Kia Niro PHEV late 2017
Lamborghini Urus late 2017
SEATING As standard the Bentayga BMW 3 Series
Citroen C3 Picasso
late 2018
late 2017 Land Rover Defender 2019
comes as a five-seater, but you can Honda Clarity late 2017 Mazda CX-5 summer
Mazda CX-3 facelift July
specify a pair of plush individual rear Hyundai i30 Tourer mid 2017
Mercedes-EQ SUV 2019
seats and a centre console. Bentley also Jaguar XF Sportbrake late 2017
Mercedes A-Class 2018 Mercedes GLA 2019
offers a third row in the boot for 2,730 Nissan Leaf late 2017 Mercedes GLB 2019
Subaru Impreza mid 2017 Mercedes-Maybach SUV 2019
Tesla Model 3 late 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross early 2018
Volkswagen Arteon autumn MG ZS late 2017
Volkswagen e-Golf May Mitsubishi Outlander 2020
Volkswagen Golf Mk8 2019 Mitsubishi Shogun late 2017
Performance Volkswagen XL3 2019 Nissan Juke late 2017
Volkswagen I.D. 2020 Nissan Qashqai facelift July
0-62mph/top speed Peugeot 2008 2018
4.6 seconds/168mph SPORTS CARS Peugeot 5008 late 2017
Alfa 4C Quadrifoglio mid 2017 Porsche Cayenne late 2017
Alfa Romeo Giulia Coup 2018 Porsche Cayenne Coup 2018
Running costs Alpina B5/D5 mid 2017 Porsche Macan facelift 2018
Alpine A110 2018 Range Rover Velar summer
35.8mpg (official) Aston Martin V8 Vantage late 2017 Renault Captur mid 2017
102 fill-up Aston Martin Vanquish 2018 Renault Koleos late 2017
Aston Martin AM-RB 001 2018 Rolls-Royce Cullinan 2018
Audi A9 2018 SEAT Arona late 2017
PRACTICALITY A power tailgate Audi RS 5
Audi TT Sportback
late 2017
2018
SEAT large SUV 2018
Skoda coup-SUV 2018
comes as standard, but 430-litre boot is Audi TTQ 2018 Skoda Yeti 2018
smaller than its rivals. Rotary controller Bentley Continental GT 2018 SsangYong Rexton late 2017
and switches adjust the air-suspension Bentley Barnato 2019 SsangYong XAV 2019
BMW M5 2018 Subaru XV early 2018
and electronics to suit different terrain BMW 2 Series facelift late 2017 Vauxhall Crossland X summer
BMW 6 Series 2019 Vauxhall Grandland X late 2017
Ford Focus RS500 late 2017 Vauxhall Monza SUV 2020
Ford GT mid 2017 Vauxhall Viva Rocks late 2017
Ford Mustang hybrid 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace summer
Honda Civic Type R July Volkswagen T-Roc late 2017
Hyundai i30N 2018 Volkswagen Polo SUV late 2018
Jaguar XE SVR 2018 Volkswagen Touareg late 2017
Kia Stinger GT September Volvo XC40 spring 2018
Lexus LC F 2018 Volvo XC60 summer
Maserati Alfieri 2018
PICK-UPS
McLaren EV 2023
Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 late 2017 Mercedes X-Class late 2017
Mercedes-AMG GT four-door 2018 Renault Alaskan summer
Mercedes-AMG hypercar 2018 Tesla Pick-up 2018
Peugeot 308 R HYbrid 2018 CABRIOLETS
Porsche Mission E 2020 Bentley Continental GTC 2018

Verdict
Porsche 911 2019 BMW i8 Roadster 2018
Renault Mgane RS late 2017 BMW Z4 2018
Toyota FT-1 (Supra) 2018 BMW2SeriesConvertiblefacelift late2017
TVR sports car 2018 Honda S2000 2018
LOVE it or loathe it, the Bentayga is Vauxhall sports car 2019 Jaguar XE Convertible 2018
at its best in V8 diesel guise. Its SUVs
McLaren 570SSpider late 2017
Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet June
nearly as fast as the W12, far more Abarth 500X late 2017
Alfa Romeo large SUV 2018 LUXURY CARS
economical and just as effortless Alfa Romeo Stelvio autumn Audi A7 2018
when cruising. Its not as expensive, Aston Martin DBX 2018 Audi A8 summer
Audi etron 2018 BMW 8 Series 2019
either, giving you more scope to add Audi Q3 2018 Infiniti Q80 2018
options. However, a Range Rover Audi Q8 2018 Lexus LF FC 2020
Audi SQ8 late 2018 Lexus LS early 2018
offers nearly as much capability and Audi RS Q2 late 2017 Mercedes S-Class facelift summer
luxury for less, and if you can live Audi RS Q5 2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom 2018
without the flying B badge and the Bentley Bentayga Coup late 2017 Volkswagen Phaeton 2018
Bentley Bentayga Speed late 2017 Volvo S90 Polestar 2018
plush interior fittings, an Audi SQ7
has the same astonishing powertrain
and costs almost half as much. Have your say: What
is your car like to own?
www.autoexpress.co.uk/driver-power

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 35

 Road tests
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives
46 PANAMERA VS
TESLA MODEL S
Its the battle of the
sporty executives, as
diesel takes on electric.

Testers notes
The new Micra has cast off the dowdy image of its predecessor with a
sharp and sporty design. However, taking on the Polo and C3 is a serious
task, so the Nissan will need plenty of substance under its new skin. The UK
loves superminis, and cars from this class routinely make up the bulk of
the best-seller lists. This means its one of the most ercely fought
areas of the market, and the Micra has a tough challenge to face.

James Disdale Chief reviewer

36 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

64 LIVING WITH A...
KIA NIRO
Its second-time lucky
64 LIVING WITH A...
PEUGEOT 2008
Our man gets to grips
for life with Kias with our crossovers
hybrid crossover. small steering wheel.

Thinking Nissan Micra 0.9 IG-T Acenta

Price: 15,115

big
Engine: 0.9-litre 3cyl turbo petrol, 89bhp
0-60mph: 10.8 seconds
Test economy: 45.5mpg/10.0mpl
CO2: 99g/km Annual road tax: 140

Pictures: Pete Gibson, Otis Clay Volkswagen Polo

Location: Whitgift Centre, 1.2 TSI 90 Match Edition
Croydon Price: 15,090
Engine: 1.2-litre 4cyl turbo petrol, 89bhp
The new Nissan Micra 0-60mph: 9.9 seconds
Test economy: 43.6mpg/9.6mpl
has lofty aspirations CO2: 109g/km Annual road tax: 140

in the supermini
class. But does it
have the talent to
beat the VW Polo
and Citroen C3? Citroen C3
PureTech 110 Feel
Price: 15,235
Engine: 1.2-litre 3cyl turbo petrol, 108bhp
0-60mph: 9.7 seconds
Test economy: 43.3mpg/9.5mpl
CO2: 103g/km Annual road tax: 140

A GLUT of all-new superminis will hit the

market this year, and the first one to take
on the established contenders is the fresh
Nissan Micra. Its fair to say that the Japanese
hatchback has been out of contention for class
honours for more than two decades, but
Nissan has now repositioned its five-door
hatch at the heart of the supermini sector.
It means the Japanese firm has a lot riding
on this car, with plenty of new tech, a range of
downsized turbo petrol and diesel engines and
a more premium cabin aiming to win sales in
one of the most hotly contested markets.
However, Volkswagen has been offering this
winning combination for years now with its
Polo. Its the reigning champ in the Best
Supermini class at the Auto Express New Car
Awards, and although well see an all-new
version later this year, the current model
is the one the Micra has to beat.
Alongside this, the Nissan will have to
fend off the challenge from Citroen and its
characterful C3. Both the Polo and C3 offer
good space, efficiency and kit, but can the
Micra edge itself ahead of this talented duo?

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 37

 Road tests Nissan Micra vs rivals
MODEL TESTED: Nissan Micra 0.9 IG-T Acenta
PRICE: 15,115 ENGINE: 0.9-litre 3cyl, 89bhp
WEVE waited a while for a new Micra, but
now that the Nissan is a proper small
hatchback, rather than straddling the city car and
supermini classes like its predecessor, the ght is
on. It offers plenty of tech, striking looks and
practicality to rival the best in its class. Our
pictures show an N-Connecta model, but its
4L
the 15,115 1.0 IG-T Acenta we test here.
DESIGN & score
ENGINEERING 3.6
THERES no doubt that the new Nissan
Micra is a radical departure from its
rather bland predecessor. But while the angular
design is new, the underpinnings arent quite as fresh.
This fth-generation Micra is based on a heavily
revised version of the Mk4s V platform, rather than
the Renault-Nissan Alliances new CMF-B (Common
Module Family B segment) chassis, which will
underpin the next Nissan Juke crossover.
Its a familiar layout, with strut-type front
suspension and a torsion beam rear axle, but the
Micra has grown. Compared to the car it replaces, its
170mm longer and 80mm wider, which makes it
comparable with the Polo and C3 in size, and means
the Micra is now much more versatile. The
stretched, widened and lowered chassis means the
Micra now sits in the heart of the supermini
segment, rather than straddling this sector and
the smaller city car class, as it did before.
Now its going head-to-head with cars like the Polo
and C3 that boast plenty of quality and individuality
inside the cabin respectively, the Micras interior has
undergone as big an overhaul as its new, sharp-
looking exterior. However, quality is acceptable but
nothing more, as there are still plenty of cheap-
feeling plastics and a mix of textures.
The Micra comes with plenty of kit, though. This
mid-spec Acenta model gets the larger seven-inch
touchscreen, cruise control, air-con, Bluetooth, Apple
4L
CarPlay and some impressive safety tech.
score
DRIVING
3.7
THE Micras IG-T 90 0.9-litre
three-cylinder turbo petrol engine has
been taken from the Renault Clio,
although Nissans engineers have recalibrated the
unit here. It produces 89bhp the same as the Polo,
but is down on the Citroens 108bhp output. Torque
is down, too, at just 140Nm and its produced
relatively high up the rev range.
While straight-line performance isnt the most
important factor for a supermini, you have to work
the Nissans engine harder than in its rivals, which
means its less relaxing to drive. The Micra sprinted
from 0-60mph in 10.8 seconds on test, while that
low torque gure meant it trailed the Polos in-gear
acceleration in fth between 50-70mph, taking
14.5 seconds (3.6 seconds longer than the VW).
On a B-road or even around town you have to
work the engine and gearbox more than in its
rivals to keep pace with trafc, but the power
delivery isnt as smooth as in the Polo or C3.
Compared with the slicker shift in the VW,
the Micras ve-speed unit feels imprecise.
The Nissan handles sweetly enough, and all cars
get the Active Ride and Active Trace Control
38 5 April 2017
DRIVING
Micra gets driver
CO2/tax aids from Qashqai,
electronic systems from the larger Qashqai. The 99g/km but it lacks the
former applies the brakes over bumps to keep the 140 or 18% sparkle or
body tied down, while the latter brakes an inside comfort of its
wheel in corners to help stick to your chosen line. rivals here
The ride is a little pattery, with a rm edge even on
smaller wheels, but its rened at speed. However,
next to the precision of the Polo and the comfort Practicality
4L
of the C3, the Micra simply lacks sparkle. Boot (seats up/down)
300/1,004 litres
PRACTICALITY score
SUPERMINIS have steadily grown in
3.8
size to the point where a 300-litre boot Performance
capacity is not far off standard for the class. 0-60/30-70mph
The Micra offers this much luggage space with its 10.8/10.8 seconds
seats up (it matches the C3), so the cars enlarged
!
dimensions have helped boost practicality.
The kicked-up window line at the rear gives the
Nissan a sportier look, but it makes it feel a little
claustrophobic when youre sat in the back. Theres Braking
less passenger room than in the back of the C3 70-0/60-0/30-0mph
or even the smaller, but well packaged Polo. 49.0/34.0/9.2m
Storage is acceptable, as theres a large tray in front
of the gear lever and a shallower one behind it, while
the door bins can swallow plenty of items. Visibility
4L
isnt quite so good though. Thank the narrow rear
window and chunky C-pillars for that. Running costs
45.5mpg (on test)
score
OWNERSHIP
3.3
48 fill-up
NONE of these three brands nished
very high up the order in our most recent
Nissan Mic
Driver Power satisfaction survey in 2016,
but Nissan fared worst in 28th.
Safety has been a key focus in the development
of the new Micra, and all trim levels come as
standard with autonomous braking with pedestrian
recognition, lane departure warning and lane
keep assist, automatic high beam headlights
and trafc sign recognition. On N-Connecta
Stylish new looks and larger dimensions mean t
cars, the 500 Vision+ pack adds 360-degree
Around View Monitor cameras, moving object
detection and blind spot warning.
Euro NCAP hasnt yet tested the car, but with the
above safety tech and six airbags, it should score well
4L
when compared to the C3 that was tested this year.
RUNNING COSTS score
THE Micra emits 99g/km CO2, which is
3.8
the lowest of this trio and drops the Nissan
into the 18 per cent company car tax bracket.
So while its 15,115 price tag splits the Polo and C3,
itll be the most cost-effective to run for business
users. Lower rate taxpayers will contribute 538 a SIZE Its larger inside, but rear space is similar to smaller Polo
year to the Treasury, which is a 63 saving over
the Polo, and 39 cheaper than the C3.
Testers notes
Nissan is targeting a younger audience with
the Micra, so there are plenty of customisation
options. Exterior colour accents for the
bumpers,
per doors and wing mirrors cost 300.
Se
Sean Carson Senior staff writer
BOOT Micra has 1,004 litres of boot space with the seats down
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Nissan Micra vs rivals Road tests
THROUGH
THE RANGE
Our guide to which trim level might suit you

THE 0.9-litre turbo petrol engine is available in

four of the ve trim levels in the Micra range.
Our PCP deals focus on this engine, so based
on a 1,500 deposit plus a 1,400 deposit
contribution from Nissan the Acenta trim
we test here will cost you 212 per month.

All offers and finance prices correct at time of going to press

Drop down to the more basic Visia+ model
and itll actually cost you more per month at
261 as theres no deposit contribution. Plus
you lose Apple CarPlay, the larger seven-inch
touchscreen and cruise control.
N-Connecta trim gets sat-nav, climate
control and a DAB radio, but itll increase
your monthly outgoings to 241 (Nissans
deposit contribution drops to 1,100).
Top-spec Tekna models come loaded with
extras such as keyless go, a Bose stereo,
rear-view camera and parking sensors, but at
255 per month it isnt worth the extra outlay.

Our choice:
Micra 0.9 IG-T Acenta

cra
STYLING
Radical new look is
designed to attract
younger buyers

the Micra is now a serious contender in the class

SOUND Nissan offers headrest-mounted

Bose speakers to boost the audio experience

DESIGN Rear doorhandles are located in

INTERIOR Theres plenty of room, decent tech and the Micra is well built, but there are too many cheap feeling plastics the C-pillars to give the rear a cleaner look

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 39

 Road tests
MODEL TESTED: Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TSI 90 Match Edition
PRICE: 15,090 ENGINE: 1.2-litre 4cyl, 89bhp
THE Volkswagen Polo has dominated the
supermini class ever since the facelifted model
appeared in 2014. With a blend of renement, quality,
practicality and precision, its got all bases covered,
which has allowed it to see off a host of newer rivals.
Here we sample it in 15,090 1.2 TSI Match Edition
guise, which delivers an impressive combination
of value, kit, performance and efciency.
DESIGN & score
ENGINEERING 3.9
AN all-new Polo based on the rms
scalable MQB architecture is due later
this year, so the current car still uses the older PQ25
underpinnings that the rm has developed over the
past decade or so. Its a conventional layout, with
strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle,
while externally the Polo looks more traditional
than the angular Micra and quirky C3.
The VW is the only car here to use a four-cylinder
engine, although like its rivals its linked to a
ve-speed manual box. A seven-speed twin-clutch
transmission can be added for 1,375. If you want the
new 108bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI, then youll
need to fork out a hefty 17,470 for the SEL.
Inside, the VW feels the most upmarket choice.
Not only is it solidly built from high-grade materials,
its design is functional and slick. Better still, it matches
the Micra for kit, with air-conditioning, cruise
control and parking sensors all featuring. The only
black mark is the fact AEB is a 400 option although
this also adds adaptive cruise control.
Other options include 910 LED headlights,
360 heated seats, a 245 reversing camera and
sat-nav at 700. The Nissan and Citroen dont
have the same scope for upgrades.
score
DRIVING
4.0
VWS tried-and-tested 1.2 TSI 90
motor is a little old hat in this
company, but its an effective performer
thats popular with buyers. With 89bhp and 160Nm
of torque, the four-cylinder unit is on a par with the
Micra, but trails the more powerful C3. At the track,
the eager engine pulled the Polo from 0-60mph in
9.9 seconds, which was two-tenths behind the
Citroen, but nine tenths ahead of the Nissan. The
Polo consolidated its advantage in-gear, where
it was fastest of all in fourth and fth gear.
On the road, the VW feels the most eager, while
its engine is smoother and quieter than the
three-cylinder units of its rivals. Theres further
praise for the ve-speed gearbox, which benets
from a slick and precise action. It works in
conjunction with the light and progressive
clutch to make the Polo the easiest car to
drive smoothly, particularly around town.
Even though the underpinnings arent at the
cutting edge, thorough development means the
Polo feels assured on the move. Its not as soft as the
C3, but the damping takes the edge off big bumps
more effectively. Renement is also good, with
mechanical, wind and road noise kept in check,
even at high speeds. It really does feel like a
larger car when cruising on the motorway.
And the faster you drive the VW, the better it is.
Body roll is well checked and theres bags of grip,
40 5 April 2017
Nissan Micra vs rivals
CO2/tax
while the naturally weighted steering allows you to 109g/km
place the car accurately. The Micra isnt far behind 140 or 20%
when it comes to agility and composure, but it lacks
4L
the Polos dynamic polish and excellent renement.
PRACTICALITY score Practicality
3.8
4L
Boot (seats up/down)
THE VWs boot is the smallest here at 280/952 litres
280 litres, which is 20 litres behind both
of its rivals. However, the opening is large
and the load bay is reasonably well shaped. It also
benets from a variable boot oor, which allows
you to choose between extra space or a totally Performance
at area when the rear bench is folded at. 0-60/30-70mph
The Polos packaging gives a good level of leg and 9.9/10.2 seconds
headroom in the rear, so while its not as spacious as
!
the C3, theres at least as much space as in the Micra.
The Polo will comfortably accommodate a pair of
adults, its doors open wide for easy access and the
large glass area creates a bright atmosphere. Braking
Theres also lots of handy storage, including 70-0/60-0/30-0mph
large door bins and a big glovebox, plus a useful 51.4/36.9/9.4m
cubby ahead of the gearlever that houses two
4L
cup-holders, as well as the USB and 12V sockets.
score
OWNERSHIP Running costs
VW will no doubt want to forget its
3.7 43.6mpg (on test)
53 fill-up
2016 Driver Power performance, as it
nished 24th overall, while its dealer
network was ranked 28th out of 31. Even so, these
Volkswage
were better results than Nissan could manage.
Matters improve for the Polo when it comes
to safety, and it has a ve-star Euro NCAP rating, but
its worth bearing in mind that it was assessed
4L
in 2009, while the C3 earned four stars under
much tougher conditions in 2017. Four airbags,
stability control and a driver fatigue monitor
Its getting old, but this perennial class front-run
are standard on the Polo, but autonomous
emergency is an option, while front and
4L
rear curtain airbags can be added for 660.
RUNNING COSTS score
ALL three cars recorded similar fuel
4.0
economy on test. The Polo returned a
respectable 43.6mpg at the pumps,
which was a fraction ahead of the C3.
Based on these gures it means theres just 10
difference in your annual fuel bill, with the Polo
coming in slightly cheaper with a total of 1,474.
However, the Nissan was even more efcient
than the VW and Citroen, returning 45.5mpg.
The Nissan emits the least CO2, so its no surprise it REAR Good packaging means smaller Polo is as roomy as Micra
had an advantage when we worked out the test gures.
Itll only save you 62 a year over the Polo, though.
Testers notes
The effects of VWs Dieselgate scandal are
clear to see in the Polo line-up. Theres just
one 1.4 TDI on offer, while the ultra-efcient
BlueMotion model is now petrol powered.
Ja
James Disdale Chief reviewer
BOOT False oor moves to create more space or level loading
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Nissan Micra vs rivals Road tests
DRIVING THROUGH
With years of THE RANGE
development Our guide to which trim level might suit you
under its belt,
Polo delivers WHEN it comes to choice, the Polo takes
grown-up some beating. Buyers can pick from S, S A/C,
manners Match, Match Edition, beats, SEL, R-Line,
BlueMotion, BlueGT and GTI versions.
However, the 1.2 TSI tested here can only be
ordered in Match, beats and R-Line versions.

All offers and finance prices correct at time of going to press

Match gets air-con, parking sensors and
touchscreen infotainment, but Edition brings
Car-Net connectivity, auto lights and wipers
and folding mirrors. With VWs Solutions PCP
scheme youll pay 222 a month, which is
just 1 more than for the Match. The beats
adds a 300W stereo and body decals for an
extra 10, while the R-Line is an extra 53 a
month, which we think is a lot for a bodykit,
different interior trim and LED headlights.
All these prices are based on a three-year
deal with a 1,500 deposit, 1,400 deposit
contribution and a 10,000-mile annual limit.

Our choice:
1.2 TSI Match Edition

en Polo
STYLING
Basic design is nearly
a decade old, and Polo
lacks design air

nner is still at the top of its game for driving and running costs

GEARBOX Five-speed unit has a slick shift

and helps boost the Polos driving enjoyment

TRIM Match Edition gets grey cloth seats,

INTERIOR Build quality is rst-rate, and Match Edition gets kit such as auto lights and wipers and Car-Net connectivity this two-tone nish appears on beats models

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 41

 Road tests
MODEL TESTED: Citroen C3 PureTech 110 Feel
PRICE: 15,235 ENGINE: 1.2-litre 3cyl, 108bhp
THE C3 was a breath of fresh air when it arrived
last year. It scaled down some of the quirky
design features from the Citroen C4 Cactus
crossover to give the supermini plenty of character,
helping it stand out from the crowd in a busy sector.
Our pictures show the range-topping Flair model,
but here we test the 15,235 mid-spec Feel trim
with Citroens PureTech 110 petrol engine.
DESIGN &
score
ENGINEERING 3.8
LIKE the Micra, the C3s
underpinnings and mechanical make-up
stretch further back than you might imagine. The
pumped-up supermini body sits on Citroens PF1
platform, which is relatively old. However, its had
plenty of development, so for this third-generation
C3 the French brand continued the renement of
the chassis architecture, focusing on comfort.
Just like Nissan, Citroen has enlarged the C3s
dimensions to offer even more room inside, so
theres very little to split the two in terms of size. The
Citroen doesnt have the most sophisticated setup
dynamically, but with Citroen Advanced Comfort it
should cater for more people more of the time.
This isnt some clever adaptive damper concept,
though. Instead, its more of an ethos Citroens
engineers have employed to return to the French
rms foundations of a compliant ride. The
suspension has plenty of travel, and with
MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam rear
axle, the layout matches the Micras and the Polos.
To tally with the ride, Citroen Advanced Comfort
also extends to the ergonomic seat design, while the
interior is clean and simple. Material quality cant
match the Polos cabin, but theres some nice
soft-touch detailing on the dash fascia, while
the metal inserts and leather door pulls give a
modern edge. Elsewhere the plastics arent so
premium, with plenty of hard material around
the gearlever, door bins and glovebox.
Like the Micra, Apple CarPlay is standard on
the C3 Feel, as is Bluetooth and a seven-inch
touchscreen. However, the Citroen also gets
a DAB radio, climate control and alloy wheels.
DRIVING score
THE C3s 1.2-litre three-cylinder
3.8
turbo unit serves up 108bhp and a
healthy 205Nm of torque from
1,500rpm 65Nm more than the Micra. It shows
why the Citroen was the quickest at the test track,
sprinting from 0-60mph in 9.7 seconds.
However, while the C3 feels fairly quick, elements
of the package, such as the rubbery gear shift, mean
its not as precise as the Polo to drive. The steering
is light but has a natural weight, which makes it
easy to drive on tight city streets, but the C3s size
does make it feel like the largest car on test. This is
backed up by the least agile chassis although the
trade-off is a good level of comfort.
As long as you avoid big potholes, the Citroens
suspension moves with the road nicely, meaning
you can make surprising and relatively relaxed
progress. Its best to drive the C3 using the punch
lower down in the range. The PureTech unit gets a
little rougher higher up, becoming more vocal with
42 5 April 2017
Nissan Micra vs rivals
CO2/tax
revs. The Citroen doesnt like to be hustled, and 103g/km
although theres a respectable level of grip on offer, 140 or 19%
you cant lean on the chassis like you can in the VW.
The C3 prefers a calmer approach, which ts with
the cars character thats why the Citroen is a
convincing supermini that delivers comfort and
4L
usability with the benet of decent performance. Practicality
4L
Boot (seats up/down)
300/922 litres
PRACTICALITY score
4.0
AT 300 litres, the C3s boot matches the
Nissans. Drop the rear seats, and the
922-litre load bay isnt quite as big as the Performance
Polos at 952 litres, or the Micras 1,004 litres. 0-60/30-70mph
However, theres plenty of room inside. The at 9.7/10.5 seconds
dash and upright fascia give a good feeling of space,
!
helped by an extra 20mm of shoulder room between
the front seats, while the C3s longer wheelbase
compared to its rivals means legroom in the rear
isnt an issue. Headroom is good in the back, Braking
too, but despite some decent storage, the 70-0/60-0/30-0mph
4L
ergonomics arent quite as polished as the Polos. 53.7/38.8/11.2m
score
OWNERSHIP
CITROEN narrowly beat Nissan in our
3.5
Running costs
Driver Power survey, taking 26th place. 43.3mpg (on test)
However, whereas Nissans ofcial dealer 53 fill-up
network was criticised by customers and
nished in 29th position, Citroens result
of 18th was the best of these three brands.
Citroen C3
The C3 gets a respectable level of safety kit as
standard. Six airbags, lane departure warning and
trafc sign recognition are tted, but unlike the
Micra, autonomous braking isnt even offered as
an option, which is why Euro NCAP only gave
the C3 a four-star safety rating this year.
4L
Funky looking supermini delivers space and com
RUNNING COSTS score
THE Citroen has the poorest predicted
residuals of this trio, according to our
3.7
experts. The C3 will hold on to just 33.6
4L
per cent of its value, which combined with
its higher price means itll lose the most, with
depreciation totalling 10,116 after three years.
The Nissan is predicted to hold on to slightly more
of its value, retaining 37.4 per cent, which equates
to depreciation of 9,462 over the same period.
Its clear that, despite the Polos age and the rms
recent Dieselgate troubles, the VW badge is still
attractive, and the Polo is expected to hold on to
an impressive 42.2 per cent of its purchase price.
This means itll shed 8,722 over the rst three REAR Back seats offer the most legroom of these three cars
years, so will be worth 6,368 or 715 and 1,249
more than the Micra and C3 respectively.
Testers notes
The Airbumps on the C3s anks should
help prevent dents in car parks, but theyre
only standard on the Flair model. If you want
them on Feel trim, youll have to pay 290.
Se
Sean Carson Senior staff writer
BOOT Theres 300 litres of space, but the load lip is quite high
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Nissan Micra vs rivals Road tests
DRIVING THROUGH
Soft suspension THE RANGE
means C3 is Our guide to which trim level might suit you
comfortable to
drive, while WHILE the C3 is offered in three trim levels,
engine is punchy this most powerful PureTech unit is only
available on the top two: Feel and Flair. It
limits the appeal a little, but Citroens nance
deals are fairly competitive, which means
you get plenty of performance and

All offers and finance prices correct at time of going to press

equipment for your monthly budget.
With a 1,500 deposit, Citroen will throw
in an effective 500 contribution. Based on a
three-year deal limited to 10,000 miles per
year, the C3 Feel will cost 254 per month.
Upgrade to Flair, and with the same 500
deposit contribution youll pay 270 a month.
This model gets more kit, such as sat-nav,
those quirky Airbumps, a reversing camera
and parking sensors. Theres also an auto
gearbox available on the top-spec model,
which adds another 32 per month. However,
Feel trim is the spec that wed go for.

Our choice:
C3 PureTech 110 Feel

STYLING
Distinctive looks wont
be to all tastes, while
Airbumps are optional

mfort, as well as decent running costs

GEARBOX Five-speed has a rubbery

shift that spoils driving enjoyment a little

ROOF Cabin feels spacious, while panoramic

INTERIOR Upright dashboard has some neat design touches and personalisation options, and build quality is good, too glass is a 400 option on Flair models

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 43

 Road tests Nissan Micra vs rivals

Inf tainment Which multimedia system is best for music, sat-nav and connectivity?

NISSAN
MICRA
NissanConnect Nav 700 option
Key features: Apple CarPlay, trafc info
score
3.6
APPLE CarPlay comes as standard on the Acenta model,
but sat-nav with trafc information comes as part of
4L VOLKSWAGEN
POLO
Discover Navigation 700 option
Key features: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

THE Polo Match Edition gets VWs Car-Net

score
3.8

App-Connect system as standard. Its a 130 option on

4L CITROEN
C3
Citroen Connect 500 option
Key features: Apple CarPlay, live services

A SEVEN-inch touchscreen comes as standard on the C3

the 700 Vision Pack, which adds NissanConnect
touchscreen navigation. This is standard on Tekna cars.
The smartphone integration is nicely done, with
CarPlay giving you access to apps that allow music
and entertainment on the move, as well as the ability to
use Siri voice control from your smartphone to perform
simple local searches using Apples Maps app. However,
Android Auto isnt offered, which is a mark against the
Micra although were told its coming in the future.
The seven-inch screens graphics arent so high
resolution. However, with hot keys anking either
side of the display, its easy to jump to different
sections of the infotainment system. Its also worth
mentioning that Nissan offers a 500 Bose stereo
upgrade, which features speakers in the headrests
and plenty of power for a supermini sound system.
other models in the range, and brings Apple CarPlay
and Android Auto, which gives users sat-nav through
their smartphone if the 700 optional Discover
Navigation system tted here seems a bit expensive.
This Discover system is a sophisticated unit and is
operated through a 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, which
also combines the radio functions and other car
settings, as well as adding a speed limit display.
There arent too many other notable features apart
from this, although VWs Car-Net Guide and Inform
service gives a three-year subscription to VWs online
services, beaming trafc info, fuel prices, parking space
locations and weather forecasts into your car. Like all of
these superminis, this level of connected tech gives a big
car feel to some extent, but even without it theres a level
of functionality thanks to good smartphone integration.
Feel, but like the Micra youll have to rely on Apple
score
3.8
4L
CarPlay for sat-nav, unless you want to spend 500 on
the integrated navigation upgrade tted to our test car.
The enhanced infotainment system also includes
connected services, including TomTom Trafc,
information on petrol prices nearby and weather
forecasts, and real-time info on trafc incidents.
Theres plenty of functionality, but the touchscreen
interface can be a little laggy. Its the latest generation unit
from Peugeot-Citroen, so the graphics are nice and sharp,
but the touch-sensitive shortcut keys at either side of the
screen arent as easy to use as the Polos labelled buttons.
Smartphone connectivity is reasonable, with CarPlay
catering for Apple users. However, if youve got an
Android phone, youre stuck with the clunky MirrorLink
system, as Android Auto isnt yet offered although it
will be coming at some point this year.

FUNCTIONS NAV DISPLAY

Handy buttons The optional Citroen has
ank Micras Discover system the clearest
display, while in the Polo has graphics, but
360 camera is clear maps and the shortcut
offered on high its easy to input buttons arent
spec models a destination very responsive

PAIRING
CONNECTED TRIP INFO If you use an
Only Apple VW adds a Android phone,
CarPlay is on comprehensive youre stuck
offer, but eco trip computer, with the clunky
driving trainer while App- MirrorLink
will help boost Connect pairs pairing system
your economy any phone easily

FOR & AGAINST FOR & AGAINST FOR & AGAINST

FOR: Good-sized screen, Apple CarPlay, FOR: Slick interface, easy to use, FOR: Clear graphics, slick-looking
simple layout good smartphone connectivity screen, connected services

AGAINST: Fuzzy graphics, interface a bit AGAINST: Pricey, screen could AGAINST: No Android Auto yet, touchscreen
clunky, Android Auto not yet supported, cost be larger, graphics lack denition can be laggy, layout not as logical as VWs

44 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

 Nissan Micra vs rivals Road tests
Figures VW Polo 1.2 TSI
90 Match Edition
tion
Citroen C3
PureTech 110 Feel
Nissan Micra
0.9 IG-T Acenta

On the road price/total as tested 15,090/15,090 RESIDUAL VALUES 15,235/15,235 15,115/15,115

Residual value (after 3yrs/36,000) 6,368/42.2% POLO depreciates 5,119/33.6% 5,653/37.4%
Depreciation 8,722 the least thanks 10,116 9,462
to VWs badge
Annual tax liability std/higher rate 601/1,203 appeal. Its
577/1,154 538/1,076
Annual fuel cost (12k/20k miles) 1,474/2,457 competitively 1,484/2,474 1,412/2,354
Ins. group/quote/road tax cost 15/739/140 priced, so will 16/736/140 3/555/140
be attractive for POWER
Cost of 1st/2nd/3rd service 288 (2yrs/20k) 400/11pm (3yrs) C3s turbo triple is
159/249/159
private buyers.
the most powerful SIZE
Length/wheelbase 3,972/2,470mm 3,996/2,540mm on test. Lots of 3,999/2,525mm COMPARED with
Height/width 1,453/1,682mm BOOT SPACE 1,474/1,829mm low-down torque 1,455/1,743mm its predecessor,
THE Polo is 20 means you dont the Micra is much
Engine 4cyl in-line/1,197cc 3cyl in-line/1,199cc have to rev it to
3cyl in-line/898cc
litres down on larger and closer
Peak power/revs 89/4,800 bhp/rpm its rivals, but 108/5,500 bhp/rpm make progress. 89/5,500 bhp/rpm to the competition,
Peak torque/revs 160/1,400 Nm/rpm it still offers 205/1,500 Nm/rpm 140/2,250 Nm/rpm but there are
Transmission 5-spd man/fwd enough day-to-day 5-spd man/fwd GEARBOX 5-spd man/fwd still some issues.
practicality. Its THESE three all
Fuel tank capacity/spare wheel 45 litres/repair kit 45 litres/space saver 41 litres/repair kit
also bigger than use five-speed
Boot capacity 280/952 litres the C3 with the 300/922 litres boxes, but the C3s 300/1,004 litres
Kerbweight/payload/towing weight 1,107/531/1,000kg seats down. 1,050/550/600kg shift isnt very 1,082/470/1,200kg
DRIVER POWER
Turning circle 10.6 metres 10.9 metres pleasant. However, 10.0 metres NISSAN was the
longer gearing
Basic warranty (miles)/recovery 3yrs (60k)/1yr 3yrs (60k)/1yr 3yrs(60k)/3yrs worst performer
helps refinement.
Service intervals/UK dealers Variable (1yr)/223 20k miles (1yr)/196 12k miles (1yr)/221 of these three
Driver Power manufacturer/dealer pos 24th/28th 26th/18th 28th/29th brands in our
NCAP RATING
reader satisfaction
NCAP: Adult/child/ped./assist/stars 90/86/41/71/5 AUTONOMOUS 88/83/59/58/4 SAFETY TECH N/A survey, finishing
braking is available EMERGENCY
just four places
to improve safety, braking isnt even
0-60/30-70mph 9.9/10.2 secs 9.7/10.5 secs an option on the
10.8/10.8 secs from bottom.
but its still worth
30-50mph in 3rd/4th 5.0/7.2 secs noting that the 4.6/7.7 secs C3, which is why it 5.0/7.2 secs
50-70mph in 5th 10.9 secs Polos NCAP rating 11.0 secs only earned a 14.5 secs
Top speed/rpm at 70mph 114mph/2,600rpm is from 2009. 117mph/2,500rpm four-star Euro 109mph/2,900rpm
NCAP score.
Braking 70-0/60-0/30-0mph 51.4/36.9/9.4m 53.7/38.8/11.2m 49.0/34.0/9.2m
Noise outside/idle/30/70mph 62/50/58/64dB 74/51/62/70dB 71/51/65/73dB
Auto Express economy/range 43.6/9.6/432 miles 43.3/9.5/429 miles 45.5/10.0/410 miles EMISSIONS
Govt urban/extra-urban/combined 47.1/70.6/60.1mpg 51.4/70.6/61.4mpg 50.4/76.3/64.2mpg VED changes
mean the low
Govt urban/extra-urban/combined 10.4/15.5/13.2mpl FOUR AIRBAGS 11.3/15.5/13.5mpl 11.1/16.8/14.1mpl
99g/km output
Actual/claimed CO2/tax bracket 150/109g/km/20% ONLY four airbags 151/103g/km/19% 143/99g/km/18% wont make the
are fitted, but the
Micra any cheaper
Polo does get
Airbags/Isofix/park sensors/camera Four/yes/yes/245 cruise control,
Six/yes/500*/500* Six/y/700*/700* to tax, but itll be
marginally more
Auto/stability/cruise control/AEB 1,375/y/y/400^ parking sensors, No/yes/yes/no No/yes/yes/yes
affordable for
Climate ctrl/leather/heated seats 380/no/360 DAB and Bluetooth Yes/no/no 450*/no/no business users.
Met paint/LED lights/keyless go 555/910/no plus sat-nav via 495/no/no 575/500/450*
Apple CarPlay.
Sat-nav/USB/DAB/Bluetooth 700/yes/yes/yes 500/yes/yes/yes 700*/yes/no/yes

Results VOLKSWAGEN
ITS rivals are catching up,
but the Polo is still a
polished product thats great to drive
1st
and is packed with tech. It emits the
most CO2, but car tax changes mean
thats less important, while economy
is on a par. It offers enough boot space
for a supermini and clever packaging
ROADTEST creates as much room as the larger
Micra in the rear. Factor in rock-solid
residuals and the VW retains its crown.
VOLKSWAGEN
CITROEN
INTERIOR quality lets
the C3 down compared
2nd
to its interesting design. However, it
NISSAN
THE reinvented Micras
styling, fresher interior
and improved infotainment bring it
3rd
offers the most space and affordable up to date. It also offers plenty of
running costs. Factor in the Citroens efficiency, making it a good choice for
decent level of performance that business users. However, competition
makes it easy to drive, and its relaxing in the supermini sector is fierce, and
ride quality, and it edges ahead of the Nissan isnt as good to drive as
the Nissan. You get a good level the Polo or as comfortable as the C3.
of kit for the money, but poor Some practicality drawbacks and a lack
depreciation dents its appeal. of sparkle see it finish a close third.

POLO
APR 2017

^Incl adaptive cruise control. *Part of pack. 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.

SEAT Ibiza 1.0 TSI SE Tech

COMING DUE: Summer PRICE: 15,255

soon
ENGINE: 1.0-litre 3cyl, 94bhp
ALL-new Ibiza (driven on Page 26)
looks ready to shake up the order. With
sleek lines, an upmarket interior, plenty
Is it worth waiting of tech and strong renement, it has all
for this model? the ingredients to shine. Eager 1.0 TSI in
SE Tech guise is the pick of the bunch.

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 45

 Road tests Porsche Panamera vs Tesla Model S

Rapid new diesel takes

on electric pioneer in an
executive saloon battle
THE automotive landscape is changing,
with diesel power coming in for some heavy
criticism recently. However, in big luxury cars
theres no doubt diesel power still makes sense.
Porsche certainly thinks so, as its new Panamera
4S Diesel delivers as much on-paper performance
as you could want from a four-seat luxury four-door.
In fact, according to Porsche its the fastest
diesel production car currently on sale.
However, in 2017 theres another option if you
want pace, space and grace without the running
costs of a large petrol. The facelifted Tesla Model S,
tested here in P100D form, proves this, and is one
of the worlds fastest electric cars. But in a head-to-
head battle between these models, which is best?

HEAD-TO-HEAD TEST

Porsche Panamera
vs Tesla Model S
PORSCHE FIGURES WHAT WE LOVE

PANAMERA Porsche
Panamera 4S Diesel
Price: 93,379
Engine: 4.0-litre V8 turbodiesel
Latest Panamera builds on the engaging and Power/torque: 416bhp/850Nm
agile driving experience of the original, but adds Transmission: Eight-speed PDK

improved looks and more tech inside and out dual-clutch automatic, four-wheel drive
0-60mph/top speed: 3.9 seconds/177mph
Test economy: 32.0mpg
THE four-door Panamera has always been the ugly duckling in Performance
CO2/tax: 176g/km/450
Porsches line-up, but the German rm has honed the second- Options: Metallic paint (929), 21-inch
The way this 2,050kg car corners
generations design so the proportions are a little less awkward. Sport Design alloys (2,465), LED matrix
puts some sports cars to shame.
It looks more like a four-door 911 than ever, while the Panamera headlights (1,509), adaptive air-suspension
Air-suspension and adaptive dampers
inherits some clever tech from top-end versions of its sports car (1,604), rear-axle steering (1,536),
help, while V8 gives effortless punch.
sibling. The new chassis additions to the Panamera mean this heated, ventilated and massaging
four-seat luxury limousine offers incredible agility, while a new V8 seats (3,161)
turbodiesel under the bonnet ensures it has the power to match.

FOR & AGAINST

FOR: Luxury levels of renement,
impressive interior tech, huge performance

AGAINST: Pricey, expensive options

needed to extract the best, only four seats

46 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

 Porsche Panamera vs Tesla Model S Road tests

TESLA FIGURES WHAT WE LOVE

MODEL S Tesla Model S P100D

Price: 129,400
Engine: Dual electric motors
Power: 603bhp/967Nm
With amazing tech, great performance and live Transmission: Single-speed automatic,
software updates, the Model S is the car of the four-wheel drive
0-60mph/top speed: 3.0 seconds/155mph
future but can it keep up with its Porsche rival? Test economy: N/A
CO2/tax: 0g/km/310
Options: Metallic paint (1,000),
Torque delivery
THE Model S was facelifted last year, and while this design revision
panoramic sunroof (2,000), 21-inch Huge power from electric motors
marked a signicant point in the cars history, Tesla has actually been
Turbine wheels (4,500), Premium means rapid acceleration. In Teslas
constantly rening and tweaking the car since it went on sale in 2012.
Upgrades Package (3,500), Subzero Ludicrous mode, its more like being
Over time, its added four-wheel drive, more power, extra range
Weather Package (1,000) red out of a cannon. Turbine-
and other functionality (such as autonomous driving) released via
smooth acceleration is instant.
over-the-air software updates, to the point where this Model S P100D
is the most honed version on sale. The performance gures are
mightily impressive, but is it enough to beat the Panamera?

FOR & AGAINST

FOR: Performance, relaxing to drive,
impressive range makes Model S very usable

AGAINST: Pricey to buy and expensive

options, not as agile as some big cars,
charging infrastructure still lacking

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 47

 Road tests Porsche Panamera vs Tesla Model S

1st PORSCHE PANAMERA

Worlds fastest diesel delivers plenty of entertainment in corners, and is also a rened cruiser
ROADTEST

PORSCHE

L4
PANAMERA
APR 2017

FOR the time being, the 93,379,379 4S Diesel is

score
DRIVING
D
the only diesel-powered Panameraamera in the
range. Under the bonnet, the 4.0-litre
V8 is new and produces an impressive
litre twin-turbo
essive 416bhp
4.5 The Panamera is defined by its
split
spl personality. Its incredibly
relaxed and refined on the
rel
more even than a 911 Carrera S. Ass well as plenty
motorway, yet on a country
mot
of power, it has a healthy 850Nm of torque thats
road it seems to shed weight
roa
served up from a lowly 1,000rpm m and doesnt
and handle with control youd
let up until 3,250rpm. Peak power kicks in just
expect from a lighter car.
exp
after this, and is sustained until 5,000rpm.
,000rpm.
Diesels usually struggle at higher
gher revs, but
the Porsches engine feels so muscular
cular and
continues revving in a linear fashion
hion higher up GEARBOX The transmission
GE
the range, emitting a muted V8 rumble. With a is smooth and swift, shifting up
new eight-speed PDK dual-clutch h automatic early in Comfort to maximise
ear
gearbox, launch control and four-wheelwheel drive, the efciency. However, this
ef
Panameras performance is stunning.ning. It sprinted means the engine can get
mea
from 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds, while hile its in-gear caught off boost but its quick
cau
acceleration was similarly spectacular,
cular, even to kick down where the V8
compared to the instant torque of the Tesla. delivers its monster punch.
del

L4
Theres so much thats new about ut this second-
generation Porsche Panamera that at very little is
carried over from its predecessor.. Porsches 4D
score
RUNNING COSTS
R
Chassis control system integratestes all the tech on
3.9
Its expensive to buy, and even
It
offer, so the way this 2,050kg four-door
ur-door drives is
as a diesel itll be expensive
scarcely believable. Our car featured
ured Porsches 1,604
to run. The Panamera returned
adaptive air-suspension. The Panamera rides nicely,
32.0mpg on test, which
but with 21-inch alloys, even with the dampers in
equates to around 2,068 per
their softest setting you can still feel niggly wheel
year in fuel. The Tesla will cost
movement over small bumps. However, at higher
570 to charge at home a year.
speeds the chassis soaks up the worst the road can
throw at it with convincing composure.
The slightly rmer edge to the ride is worth RANGE While it costs more
putting up with given how agile the car is, though. to run than the Model S, with a
Our model was also tted with rear-wheel steering 90-litre tank youll only have
(1,536), which effectively shortens the Panameras to ll the Panamera every 630
wheelbase in slower turns for increased response miles, whereas the Tesla will
and lengthens it in faster corners for more stability. be out of charge in 381 miles,
The steering has just the right level of weight according to ofcial gures
and feedback, while the grip and traction would although 300 miles is a
embarrass some sports cars. Plus the Panamera has more realistic target.

4L
real poise and balance for such a big, heavy car.
Taut body control aside, the Porsche switches to
a luxury limo when you move from Sport Plus to PRACTICALITY
Comfort mode, and the interior comes into its own. score The Porsches heavily raked
The 12-inch touchscreen is clear and digitally controls
the movement of the central air vent. This might 3.8 hatch impacts on boot space,
but theres still 500 litres.
seem gimmicky, but the level of connectivity isnt,
Fold the back seats down and
with apps and smartphone programmes on offer.
this rises to 1,340 litres,
The console is no longer festooned with buttons.
offering more practicality.
Instead, the touch sensitive glass panel is ush,
adding an even more hi-tech feel combined FOUR SEATS Unlike the
with the twin high-resolution screens either Model S, the Panamera only
side of Porsches trademark central rev counter. seats four. However, while
headroom is tighter than in
the Tesla, theres lots of
legroom and storage is good.
Verdict
THE Panamera lives up to its promise in the
UK. Its packed full of tech, rides better, is
more agile and offers even more renement
then the Tesla. Itll be more expensive to
run, but its cheaper to buy, and offers
incredible performance and competitive
efciency in a complete package.

48 5 April 2017
 Steering and drive
Steering has a balanced mix
Infotainment of weight and feedback,
Centre console is dominated by with great grip and traction,
Porsches 12-inch touchscreen, which too. Car is agile, with a
boasts clear graphics and connectivity slightly rm edge to the ride

Design
Fiddly buttons are gone, with a clean and logical
layout chosen for the Porsches interior

CO2/tax
176g/km
450 or 37%
score
4.3
4L INTERIOR &
TECHNOLOGY
The Porsches cabin feels much higher
quality than the Teslas. The inlays,
glass centre console, customisable
screens and solid build mean it feels
worth every last pound of its price.
THROUGH
THE RANGE
What deals are on offer?

IF you want a more efcient car

INFOTAINMENT This is the most
Practicality sophisticated multimedia system ever
Boot (seats up/down) in a Porsche. You can turn the car into
500/1,340 litres a Wi-Fi hotspot, connect to apps, get
info on fuel prices and link your Apple
phone or watch via CarPlay. However,
its the slick way in which it all works
so seamlessly thats impressive.
Performance
than the Panamera 4S or Turbo
petrol models, this is the only diesel
available so our deals focus on this
engine. There is another option for
company car users, though; the
petrol-powered 56g/km Panamera
4 E-Hybrid, although youll really
need to plug it in every time you
park it up if you want to see real
economy benets over the diesel.
The Porsche and Tesla are
expensive cars, so a 15,000

4L
0-60/30-70mph deposit might seem steep but isnt
3.9/3.4 seconds actually that much in percentage
terms. Put this down on the
OWNERSHIP
! Porsche came seventh in
our Driver Power 2016
score
4.0
Porsche and, on a three-year PCP
deal limited to 10,000 miles per
year, your monthly payment will
Braking satisfaction survey, which come in at 1,097. Unlike some
70-0/60-0/30-0mph is good. However, Tesla other models, the long-wheelbase
45.5/31.5/9.7m topped the table, finishing first in Executive version isnt available in
every category except for build quality. 4S Diesel guise although youre
where it came second to Porsche. not losing out on much, as the
standard Panamera offers plenty
WARRANTY Porsche is known of legroom and comfort anyway.
Running costs for reliability in motorsport, and its
32.0mpg (on test) road cars reect this. A three-year Our choice:
109 fill-up unlimited mileage warranty is standard. Panamera 4S Diesel

5 April 2017 49
 Road tests Porsche Panamera vs Tesla Model S

2nd TESLA MODEL S

Searing straight-line pace and cutting-edge tech grabs the headlines, but theres much more to the Model S

4L DRIVING
IF youve not driven an electric car before, then
youve never experienced the instant power an score
EV delivers. However, nothing can prepare you for
the punch of the P100Ds dual electric motors
3.9 Its not as nimble or precise as
the Porsche, but the Model S
feels like nothing else to drive.
youll be left stunned at the performance on offer.
The surge from the motors
This most powerful Model S comes with Teslas
does eventually abate, but
Ludicrous Plus power upgrade, which puts 603bhp hp
only well above the speed
to the road through all four wheels. However, like the
limit. Acceleration is smooth.
Porsche, its the torque that takes your breath away. y.
Despite the Model Ss hefty 2,242kg kerbweight,
acceleration is rapid, thanks to the 967Nm on offer. fer.
In order to extract maximum performance, you BRAKING You choose the
have to go through a lengthy process of pre-heating ing level of regenerative braking to
the battery pack, which can take up to an hour. help top the battery up. In the
Time constraints meant we werent able to fully higher setting you dont need
test the car in Ludicrous Plus mode. However, even en to use the brake, the effect is
in the regular Ludicrous mode, the Model S still so strong. However, one-pedal
sprinted from 0-60mph in 3.0 seconds, helped driving feels natural in trafc,
by the convoluted launch control procedure. but articial on twistier roads.

4L
The Tesla accelerated from 30-70mph in a
startling 2.4 seconds, which was a full second
faster than the Porsche, partly because the RUNNING COSTS
Panamera has to shift through gears, whereas score Electric cars attract nine per
the Teslas electric motors dont have any ratios.
However, the Model Ss mass means it cant 4.2 cent company car tax the
Panameras Benefit in Kind
match the Porsche in the bends. The steering is
rate is 37 per cent. The Tesla
light and doesnt weight up or offer much feedback,
will cost 4,656 per year for
and it also doesnt grip quite as hard. Even if you
higher rate drivers, compared
delicately squeeze the accelerator out of corners it
to 13,759 for the Porsche.
triggers the traction control, so it actually limits
performance until youre in a straight line.
You also feel the cars weight when braking, and CHARGING The Tesla will be
despite the regenerative effect from the motors, it cheap to charge, as ownership
doesnt feel as stable as the Panamera. Nor does entitles you to 400kWh
it yield to tricky surfaces as well as the Porsche, (around 1,000 miles) of free
thumping over bigger bumps despite its electricity every year using
air-suspension. Theres also a lot of road noise. Teslas Supercharger network.
With no combustion engine to drown out wind A fast top-up at these locations
and road noise, you hear more on the move, but takes 30 minutes for an 80 per
despite a less sophisticated feel to the way the Tesla cent increase in range.

4L
rides, it still offers a decent level of comfort.
No engine brings big benets for packaging. The
cabin is spacious, and with no transmission tunnel PRACTICALITY
theres plenty of storage below the enormous score The compact drivetrain gives
17-inch touchscreen plus, theres good legroom
in the back for the passenger in the middle seat. 3.8 plenty of luggage space.
Theres 894 litres on offer,
Like Porsches 2,438 InnoDrive autonomous
which rises to 1,795 litres if
driving system, Teslas Enhanced Autopilot option
you fold the seats. You can get
will control the car, adapting to trafc around it
seven seats for 4,000.
and keeping the car within its lane. However, its
5,000 price more than cancels out the 4,500
Government Plug-in Car Grant. Even without that BOOT Capacity quoted above
option, the top-spec Model S is a hefty 129,400. includes 150 litres of space in
the nose, but the deep, wide
load area in the rear will be
more than spacious enough
Verdict for most of your needs.
THE P100D is an engineering triumph, and its
performance always staggers. While running
costs might rival a hot hatch and its
performance a hypercar, its not as complete
as the Panamera. You get lots of kit, but
build quality isnt as good, and while its
larger it doesnt feel as luxurious or rened.

50 5 April 2017
 Styling
Some parts of the
interior feel plasticky,
but leather details
and metal inserts add
Steering and drive a more luxury feel
Technology Acceleration is smooth and
Huge 17-inch touchscreen speedy, but cars weight
dominates the dash, and acts means its more enjoyable on
as the cars control centre straight roads than in corners

CO2/tax
0g/km
310 or 9%
score
4.2
4L INTERIOR &
TECHNOLOGY
Quality isnt of the same grade as the
Panameras. Parts feel plasticky, such
as the cup-holder and storage tray,
but theres leather, cool metal inserts
and lots of tech that feels upmarket.
THROUGH
THE RANGE
Which trim level might suit you?

WITH an identical 15,000 deposit

SCREEN The Model Ss interior is
Practicality dominated by its 17-inch touchscreen.
Boot (seats up/down) This controls all of the cars functions,
894/1,795 litres from the panoramic roof to Ludicrous
mode. Its a focal point to the cabin
with lots of tech including Internet in
the car but requires a minimum 3G
connection to run most functions.
Performance
to the Panamera, based on the
same 36-month PCP deal limited to
10,000 miles per year, youll pay
1,793 per month before any
incentives for the Model S P100D.
However, unlike the Panamera,
theres more choice. Dropping to
the cheaper 100D model will save
you 681 per month, and while you
lose some performance and range,
you dont sacrice kit. Besides, the
100D is more than quick enough.

4L
0-60/30-70mph The range drops on a sliding scale
3.0/2.4 seconds from here, with the 90D offering
less power and range, but costing
OWNERSHIP
! If you have any hang-ups
over the Teslas battery
score
4.2
1,060 per month. The 75kWh
model comes with rear or four-
wheel drive, and costs 783 and
Braking and motors, an eight-year 870 per month respectively. The
70-0/60-0/30-0mph unlimited mileage warranty 60kWh version costs 671 or 757
49.7/35.7/10.8m should dispel them. The rest of per month, but these will be
the car is covered under the standard dropped from the line-up on 16 April.
four-year/50,000-mile package. Existing 60kWh owners can pay to
upgrade their car to the 75kWh
SAFETY Collision avoidance and version via an over-the-air update.
Running costs autonomous braking have been added
381-mile range through updates. The Model S got a Our choice:
30 mins (80% fast ve-star Euro NCAP rating in 2014. Model S 90D
charge)
5 April 2017 51
 Our cars Living with a Kia Niro

Stuart Milne
Stuart_Milne@dennis.co.uk
@stuartjmilne

EAGLE-eyed readers will notice that

theres something different about our
long-term Kia Niro. Thats because weve had
to swap the Temptation Red car that made
its debut on the Auto Express eet in Issue
1,455 for an identical car, bar the obvious
change to White Pearl metallic paint.
The change came as a result of a mystery
problem that emerged after just 600 miles
in our original Niro, which Kia thought
worthy of additional investigation. On
starting the car, a whiff of petrol fumes
would quickly enter the cabin, and when
the engine was cold, it would hesitate under
acceleration and had a lumpy idle. Once up
to temperature, the problem would go away.
This meant a trip to the dealer was
necessary, so I booked the car into Essex
Auto Group in Southend for the issue to
be examined. A faulty oxygen sensor was
picked up by EAGs diagnostic software,
but replacing it failed to cure the problem.
Even a comprehensive engine stripdown
and calls back and forth between EAG
and Kias technical centre proved fruitless.
In the end, Kia asked to take the car back.

Replaced
I was glad when its replacement arrived.
Im not too taken with the pearlescent paint,
but elsewhere, this second Niro is just
as easy to drive as the rst, and, more
importantly, its easy to drive economically.
This is a hybrid, so its all about
maximising what the powertrain can offer

Kia Niro
which is a lot. The Niro is more willing
to drop into EV mode than most other
petrol-electric cars Ive driven, while the
combustion engine doesnt kick in as soon
as you go near the accelerator. Try as I might,
Ive not been able to fully deplete the
batterys charge, and as Kia doesnt publish
a battery-only range gure, an electric- SECOND REPORT We hope its second-time lucky for our hybrid crossover
range challenge is planned for the future.
However, this could be difcult, given
theres no button to force electric-only
progress. The Niro behaves like a normal BOOT
Rear space feels
petrol or diesel car when it comes to urban
small compared
and motorway driving, so its more with some rivals;
economical on a motorway than in trafc. bike fits only
From past experience Ive had with when seats
a Lexus CT 200h, thats the opposite are folded
of what most hybrids are capable of.
Its obvious that the Niros more modern
technology brings more electric assistance
at higher speeds and for longer, making
60mpg on a motorway run easily achievable.
However, during the more common
around-town grind I nd myself in, the
Niro dips into the forties. So far on test,
Ive managed an average of 47.5mpg, but
Im condent I can improve on that easily. Driving Aerodynamic design helps improve fuel economy, while short
Talking of town driving, the Niros bluff overhangs and well packaged shape mean Niro is easy to manoeuvre at low speeds
shape and short overhangs make it an
excellent urban car. The turning circle is (430 litres), while its roll-back
impressively tight and its boxy shape makes luggage-cover means accessing Try as I might, Ive
it easy to get in and out of in tight spots.
But whats not so impressive is the
the boot is a two-step process.
Once its open, it just doesnt seem that not been able to
boot. For such a large vehicle, the Niro
doesnt make best use of its 373-litre
big; the only way I can carry my three-
year-old daughters bike is by folding
fully deplete the
load bay. Its quite a bit smaller than the rear seats forward, which is a bit batterys charge
crossovers like the Nissan Qashqai disappointing for a family crossover.

52 5 April 2017
 Living with a Kia Niro Our cars

Pete Gibson
Essentials
Kia Niro 2
On fleet since: December 2016
Price new: 22,795
Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl hybrid,
139bhp
CO2/tax: 88g/km/130
Options: White Pearl metallic
paint (545)
Insurance*: Group: 12 Quote: 604
Mileage/mpg: 1,667/47.5mpg
Any problems? First car returned to Kia
*Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a
42-year-old in Banbury, Oxon, with three points.

Interior Bespoke dials behind the steering wheel

give readings about the energy ow and offer eco tips

Second opinion WE LIKE Despite the lack of a

CO2/tax Practicality Running costs UNLIKE hatchback rivals such as the Toyota Prius
and Hyundai Ioniq, Kias rst attempt at a petrol- dedicated EV mode, its easy to
88g/km Boot 47.5mpg (on test) drive around town without the
130 or 17% 373/1,371 litres 52 fill-up
electric hybrid for the UK comes in the form of a
crossover, which should combine low running costs engine kicking in. Fuel economy
and style to boost appeal.The Niros design is best continues to improve as well
described as inoffensive, but those curves and creases
are there for a reason with a coefcient of drag at
just 0.29Cd, it can cut through the air with maximum
efciency, hopefully cutting costs at the pumps.

James Disdale Chief reviewer

WE DONT Recessed boot

Eco release button means its hard
Hybrid technology to open without getting your
works effortlessly hands dirty. Load space isnt
and can improve as practical as some rivals.
fuel economy up
to 60mpg
Verdict
DESPITE a troubled start to our
relationship, the Niro is now settling
into life on the fleet well. Its not
only an impressive first hybrid from
Kia, but an economical all-rounder
thats proving easy to live with on
a daily basis, as long as youre
not carrying bulky items.

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 53
 Our cars
Peugeot 2008
SECOND REPORT When it comes to steering wheels, size matters
Martin Saarinen
Martin_Saarinen@dennis.co.uk
WHEN it updated its 2008 crossover,
Peugeot tweaked a number of different
areas to help keep the car at the top of its
game but one thing it didnt touch was
the cars controversial i-Cockpit layout.
This has been a contentious subject
since the concept rst launched on its
208 supermini. Having spread to the 308
hatchback and 2008 were running on
the Auto Express eet, the small steering
wheel set-up has been making waves once
Essentials
Peugeot 2008
1.6 BlueHDi 120 GT Line
On fleet since: December 2016
Price new: 21,635
Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl
turbodiesel, 118bhp
CO2/tax: 96g/km/140
Options: Pearlescent paint (645),
Active City Brake (250)
Insurance*: Group: 22 Quote: 655
Mileage/mpg: 10,109/49.4mpg
Any problems? None so far
*Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a
42-year-old in Banbury, Oxon, with three points.
54 5 April 2017
again. The idea of the i-Cockpit, Peugeot
says, is that the small, sporty steering wheel
is positioned lower down on the dash, with
the dials and instruments above, so you peer
over the wheel rather than through the
gap between the centre and the rim.
But as I found out after breaking out the
tape measure, the 2008s steering wheel is
actually narrower than that tted to one of
my colleagues cars, a sporty Caterham
Seven. The claim is that this layout means
you divert your attention away from the
road for less time than with a conventional
dash, but Im not so sure. You see, I dont feel
WE LIKE GT Line trim shows
off the 2008s de-cluttered dash
and nicely trimmed cabin well.
Glovebox space is tight though,
as the fusebox takes up room.
Practicality Running costs
Boot (seats up/down) 49.4mpg (on test)
360/1,194 litres 55 fill-up
comfortable with the wheel down by
my knees, and in a higher, more natural Second opinion
position it obscures the dials, so I spend This 1.6 diesel GT Line is the priciest
more time bobbing around trying to model in the range at 21,635, but
see what speed Im driving at. the extras inside and out make it
However, while this is a clear drawback look sporty without loss of comfort.
to the cabin layout, the narrow diameter However, a Mazda CX-3 1.5D Sport
wheel brings other benets, which Ive Nav is better to drive, comer and
been enjoying once Ive managed to get better built for only 560 more.
the 2008 away from the congested
streets of south-west London. Sean
Se Carson
On twistier roads the small wheel Senior
Sen staff writer
and quick steering give the car genuine
agility that most people might not
WE DONT I understand the
principle behind the small steering
wheel, but in practice Im less
convinced. I feel its the answer
to a question nobody was asking.
www.autoexpress.co.uk

NEED TO
KNOW
The 2008 is
agile, but soft
suspension
means it does
roll in bends
expect from a compact crossover. In fact,
the 2008s keenness to change direction
at normal speeds sometimes takes me
by surprise, although the soft chassis
set-up means it does roll a little when
you initially turn into a bend.
This can take some getting used to,
but you quickly learn how much lock
to add and how the 2008 responds to
your inputs. Unfortunately I dont think
Ill ever feel natural or relaxed with
that low-down driving position.
Its an issue that continues to rmly
divide opinion, but while the 2008 has
been updated, its important to remember
www.autoexpress.co.uk
Living with a Peugeot 2008 Our cars
Fleetwatch
Upright Ignis
has distinctive
looks that
help to deliver
a surprising
amount of
space inside
Suzuki Ignis
WE have a new arrival on the Auto Express eet, in the boxy shape of
a new Suzuki Ignis. Our 13,999 test car is a top-spec SZ5 model with
Suzukis ALLGRIP four-wheel drive system, and boasts impressive
standard kit, including cruise control, autonomous braking, keyless go,
rear parking camera, DAB and sat-nav a lot for an affordable city car.
The exterior styling divides opinion. Some love its retro, square-set
mini crossover stance and see it as a breath of fresh air in the small
urban car sector. However, others are not so keen. One thing custodian
and Auto Express art director, Darren Wilson, wont be debating is the
impressive practicality for such a compact car. The interior has already
impressed Darren, with the Ignis offering just enough room for four
adults. The sliding rear bench means you maximise passenger space or
luggage room, too. Weve got an interesting twist in store for the Ignis
as well, so keep look out for its rst full report on these pages soon.
Our fleet
that this is still i-Cockpit version 1.0 and
INDEX
Audi SQ7
as with most things, its undergoing a Issue 1,458
continual process of improvement. BMW M240i
Peugeots second-generation i-Cockpit Issue 1,464
made its debut on the 3008 crossover late Citroen C4 Picasso
last year, and with a digital display in place Issue 1,459, 1,466
of the analogue dials here plus a sleeker,
more suave cabin overall the concept Audi SQ7 Ford Edge
Issue 1,465
makes more sense in the real world ITS fair to say that London isnt our 429bhp Honda Jazz
and for city driving in particular. mega-SUVs natural habitat. It rarely ts in Issues 1,450, 1,461
There are still a few caveats to the 3008s parking bays, and theres little chance to exploit Jaguar XF
improved layout, but following this car and its sensational 0-62mph time of 4.9 seconds. Issues 1,445, 1,457
the larger, seven-seat 5008 SUV, itll be It also struggles navigating the capital, with Kia Niro
interesting to see how Peugeot handles editor Graham Hope bemused by some of the Issue 1,455
the redesign of the next 2008s interior. sat-navs route planning. This was recently Mercedes GLC
highlighted by a journey from Southgate in Iss 1,441, 1,449, 1,454, 1,460
north London to Beckenham in the south-east Mitsubishi L200
of the capital. Its a trip Graham has made many Issues 1,452, 1,461
times in the past year planning a house move. Peugeot 2008
No matter the car, the route has generally Issue 1,460
been the same head east on the North SEAT Ateca
Circular, then cut down through east London Issues 1,453, 1,462
using the Blackwall Tunnel to cross the Thames. Skoda Superb
Verdict But the SQ7 had its own ideas, directing our
man west on the North Circular then plotting
Issue 1,456
Subaru Outback
IT wont suit everyone, but the small him through the centre of London, including Issue 1,462
steering wheel makes the 2008 feel more Oxford Street (above), Europes busiest Tesla Model S
agile than you would expect on the right shopping street. A journey that should take Issue 1,463
road. But Im not that enamoured with around 70 minutes lasted a soul-destroying Toyota Prius
the i-Cockpit layout. When youre driving two-and-a-half hours. Graham will use his Issues 1,447, 1,463
on normal roads (which, lets face it, is own route planning skills next time. Volkswagen up!
most of the time), the wheel makes the New arrival
2008 feel a little too nervous, and its at Volvo V40
odds with the otherwise comfortable ride. Have your say: What Issue 1,464
is your car like to own?
www.autoexpress.co.uk/driver-power
5 April 2017 55
 Products
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for our extensive product archive

THIS WEEKS
HOT KIT Kim
Adams
Got a query?
products@autoexpress.co.uk
@AE_Consumer

Time for a rubber upgrade

Q COULD you advise me on the best choice

UNINTERRUPTED
of tyre for my Mazda MX-5 Mk3.5 1.8? It
has 17-inch wheels and I use the car all
year round, not just in the summer.

DIGITAL RADIO IS HERE

John Brandon, E-mail

NEW PRODUCT
A WE last tested 17-inch tyres in 2015, when
the Continental ContiSportContact 5 came
out on top. This has now been replaced in
Radioplayer Car some 17-inch wheel sizes by the updated
Price: 245 (including professional PremiumContact 6 (above). Weve tried this
installation and smartphone mount)
tyre, and its no less sporting than its
Contact: 0844 576 6778, www.radioplayercar.com predecessor, despite the different name.

DAB digital radio adaptors are fast becoming a

Fantastic plastic cleaner?
key accessory, as the UK Government presses on
with its plans to replace FM radio with digital
frequencies. The latest adaptor to join the market
Q MY vehicle has some hard-to-reach places
around the switches on the dashboard that have
is from Radioplayer, and it claims youll never lose dust in them. Ive seen a gel keyboard cleaner
signal, because it uses smart hybrid technology. online: would that be able to remove it?
Unlike many rivals, the Radioplayer Car Dave Worrall, E-mail
doesnt just tune into DAB. It can switch between
FM and digital frequencies, as well as mobile
data streaming to ensure you never lose signal.
The adaptor is professionally fitted behind the
A WEVE no experience of using keyboard cleaners
on car plastics. These use a rubberised putty to
tack dirt off keys, but wed strongly advise
cars dashboard, and it connects wirelessly to the trying it in an unseen place first. The best way
drivers smartphone. The device also comes with to remove dirt from cracks is with an old paint
a smartphone mount and a free app that enables brush, with the metal parts taped up to prevent
drivers to control the cars radio via their phone. scratching, and a vacuum to suck up the dust.
To help driving safety, a voice control feature
allows drivers to switch between stations, with
each announced over the speakers. Another key
Corroded wheel worries
feature is the free wireless updates to both the
adaptor and the app, so the device is able to keep
up with the latest software on mobile phones.
Q IVE just changed a wheel on my car and
had great difficulty removing it because it
The device also works with Apples Siri and was stuck to the wheel hub. What causes this
Androids voice control systems, allowing you and how can I prevent it from happening again?
to check the latest traffic updates, read text PatrickKiely, E-mail
messages and answer calls on the move.

Radioplayer Car can switch

A THIS is a common problem, even with
new cars, and is caused by electrolytic
corrosion between the metal hub and the
modes to ensure that you SMART OPTION Radioplayer Car alloy wheel. To help prevent it happening
app is compatible with voice recognition again, carefully remove all corrosion, then
never lose radio signal on smartphones, so you can operate
it hands-free when on the move
smear the surface around the hub and wheel
centre with a thin layer of copper grease.

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 57

 Products
uc Tool kits
TOOL KITS
GUARANTEED
FOR LIFE
NEW PRODUCT
Halfords Advanced Toolsets
Price: From 30
Contact: 0845 057 9000, www.halfords.com
HALFORDS has launched a new range of tools
that come with a lifetime guarantee so
youll never have to pay for replacements.
Made of chrome vanadium, the Advanced tool
sets come as either the modular 26-piece socket
set (costing 45 although currently on offer
for 25), and a four-piece pliers set (30).
We rate Halfords 200-piece set, too, but this
cheaper and more compact option makes sense
if youre short on space plus pliers are a great
tool to have around, because they can do such a
variety of jobs when youre maintaining your car.
The tools come in metal trays that are
designed to slot into any storage units that
you may already have in your garage.
The socket set features 1/2-inch sockets in
standard and deep form, from 10mm to 34mm,
NEW PRODUCT
Valeo HydroConnect
wiper blade range
Price: from 14 the HydroConnect Upgrade is a set for front wipers that is suitable for
Contact: 01527 838300,
www.valeoservice.com
58 5 April 2017
news,
deals&
events
Autophoto Paris
tickets now on sale
FONDATION
Cartier, the
art museum in
Paris, France,
will play host to
a new exhibition
of automotive
photography
Autophoto.
Opening on
20 April, the
exhibition marks
the 30th anniversary of the
Hommage Ferrari show, and
will illustrate how the car reshaped
photography in the 20th Century.
More than 400 works will be
displayed, plus a series of models
and reproductions. Log on to
GUARANTEED www.fondationcartier.com for info.
Chrome vanadium
plating ensures that
these tools are durable Rimmer Bros 4x4
catalogue out now
OWNERS of Land Rovers and Range
plus extension bars, a universal joint and a Rovers can now get their hands on
ratchet joint. The four-piece plier set, coated in a new parts catalogue from British
the same chrome vanadium to increase durability, specialist Rimmer Brothers.
has a pair of eight-inch linesman pliers, a six- Covering all models from
inch diagonal cutter, long nose pliers (six inches) the Series I to the latest Range
and seven-inch curved-jaw locking pliers. Rover, the catalogue is a direct
Meanwhile, the lifetime guarantee means line to the authorised Land Rover
Halfords will replace any tools if you have parts distributor. Anything the
problems, and promises there will be no company doesnt have in stock
quibble and no receipt required to do so. can be accessed directly from
Land Rovers own factory. Visit
www.rimmerbros.co.uk for
The lifetime guarantee the companys full inventory.
means Halfords will replace
tools if you have problems Exclusive watch for
Morgan enthusiasts
CAR and watch makers collaborating
on timepieces is nothing new, but this
latest venture requires buyers to be
current or previous Morgan owners.
The Morgan Motor Company has
partnered with Christopher Ward
to produce a three-piece collection
inspired by the marques cars the
Classic, 3 Wheeler and Aero 8. Order
HYDROCONNECT is the new wiper blade range from Valeo. The new designs books open next month. Prices start
claim 96 per cent flat blade coverage, and there is a line-up of three products. from 2,250 and aspiring owners
The HydroConnect Front and Rear wiper blades are designed as replacements can order from a Morgan dealership
for vehicles that were originally fitted with flat blades. As its name suggests, or the Christopher Ward website,
at www.christopherward.co.uk.
vehicles that were originally fitted with conventional wiper blades.
All three variants use Valeos Easy-Clic system, which allows the switch Know of an event coming soon?
of a conventional blade to Valeos technology in a quick and simple process. Contact products@autoexpress.co.uk
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Products USB adaptors tested

Mini test books,

NEW PRODUCT
Nonda Zus PRICE 29.99 dvds&games
Price: 29.99 Rating:
Contact: www.mobilefun.co.uk You Can Drive
THERES a quality feel to this diminutive A Porsche
Philip Raby (self-published, www.amazon.co.uk)
adaptor. It has discreet white lights, and
Price: 4.95 Rating:
we found that it fitted in places where
larger devices couldnt. The twin angled
sockets and reversible outlets help keep A STRAIGHTFORWARD title for a fairly
things tidy. It pumps out 4.8 Amps concise book which might have you
maximum, and matched our test winner delving into the classifieds looking
in the charge test, adding five per cent for a Porsche to buy! With good
to our iPad2 in 15 minutes. In the car, advice throughout, not everything
the only drawback is the lack of outlets. is Porsche-specific, and a lot of this
The Zus app works with Android and books tips can be applied to any
iOS devices and was a breeze to pair with used car purchase. Priced at under
the adaptor. As it uses the phones GPS it a fiver (or free if youve got Amazons
cant locate your car in a multi-storey car KindleUnlimited), its a steal.
park, but it worked well when left in the
open, displaying the cars position on a
map. If you often have to search for your
car this is a good solution, but expensive
Let Them Stare!
and has limited charging ports. Michael Hipperson (iStudio21 Publishing,
www.istudio21.co.uk)
Price: 15 Rating:

New USB charger finds THIS is a great account of one mans

motoring history, from humble

its place in the market

Kim Adams
THE USB adaptor has
become a motoring essential,
but one of the latest on the
market also has the ability
to help you find your car.
The Nonda Zus provides two
USB sockets and also uses GPS
and a smartphone app to help
find your parked car ideal after
leaving it a few weeks at an
airport. Its main job is to keep
your kit charged, though, so we
compared it to our Issue 1,455
test winner and the similar third-
placed all-in-one from Ring.
We checked charging speed
with an iPad Air 2, socket fit
and value for money using
online sources correct at the
time of writing. The versatile
Anker hangs on to its crown,
but the Zus works well and is
perfect if you find yourself
spending lots of time searching
for your vehicle in car parks.
Purely as a charger, the Ring
has the edge, not least thanks
to a price thats half the Nondas.
USB adaptors are a
motoring essential,
but this new one can
also locate your car
beginnings in scrapyard-ready
Vauxhalls right up to incredible
supercars like the Ford GT40,
Lamborghini Miura and Ferrari
308 GTS. Presented with plenty of
pictures, its an interesting read,
TEST WINNER and gives an insight into what its
actually like to own some of these
Anker PowerDrive 5 exotics. Proceeds from the book sales go to charity, too.
Price: 14.99 Rating: Contact: 01604 936200, www.anker.com
UNUSUALLY, this adaptor comes with a plug on a metre-long lead, with the five
outlets at the end. Perfect for running through the front seats to kids watching
movies or playing games on devices in the rear. The kit includes a sticky pad
Crossroads Crash
for permanent fixing in the car. Available for: iOS (under Crossroads Crack), Android
For heavy users with multiple Price: Free Rating:
devices to keep topped up it
works well, as it has a 10A ANYBODY whos played one of the
total output. Its charge rate many air traffic control games on
matched the Zus, but it offer will know about the challenge
has a substantial price of juggling several vehicles at once
advantage and three extra without any collisions, and Crossroads
sockets. Its still our choice for Crash is a simple game which
those who just need a USB adaptor. quickly becomes fiendishly difficult.
Fun, blocky graphics and smooth
gameplay combine to make
TEST FAVOURITE this a surprisingly great game
Ring 3-Way Smart for casual time wasting.
USB RMS20
Price: 14.99 Rating: Contact: 0113 213 2000, www.ringautomotive.com
WE included this Ring as its the closest
App of the week
product to the new Nonda in terms of its
compact design. Its a touch shorter than
WRC Official App
the Zus, but the sockets come straight out Available for: iOS, Android
of the end, so it takes up a little more space, Price: Free Rating:
particularly when all three are in use.
Theres clear marking for all three sockets, with THE official World Rally Championship app
two 2.4A outlets and a single 2A, giving it a 6.8A is an easy way to catch up on the season.
maximum output. This gave it a slight edge in the With the latest news, videos and photos,
charging test, but only by one per cent. The Ring is a
decent performer with a good price, so youd really have
plus live reports from the stages, we
suspect dedicated fans will be glued to this
to need the Zus locating ability to choose it instead. app if they cant catch the action live on TV.

60 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

 Products
uc
Curver Large
Toolbox 157705
Price: 20 Contact: www.amazon.co.uk
Size (mm)/capacity: 510x260x250/33 litres Rating:

BEST BUY FOR organisers, look no further, because the

two removable, lid-mounted boxes here were brilliant. Opaque
plastic allowed us to see what was where without opening,
and with eight and 13 divisions, there was lots of choice. They
slotted into the lid and both featured solid plastic catches.
Sized ideally for almost all DIYers, the box was large enough to
be useful and small enough to carry. It held our tools easily, and
the two smaller sections in the tote tray were ideal for sockets. An
average price for a great set of features secured its victory.

Silverline 196114
Price: 25.03 Contact: 01935 382222, www.silverlinetools.com
Size (mm)/capacity: 580x290x255/42 litres Rating:

RECOMMENDED YOURE unlikely to ever lose this Silverline box,

because the vivid blue finish shouts its presence clearly. It was
unusual on this test in being a composite unit, with the lid and
base in polypropylene and the sturdy centre section in steel.
There were no organisers in the top of the lid, although the 50mm deep
tote tray held all our tools easily, while the four divisions made it simple to
keep the sockets separate. Below the tote was a cavernous storage area
that swallowed everything with ease. It was the second largest box with
the third best price, so it secured the runner-up spot in the test.

Stanley 19in Essential Toolbox

Price: 15 Contact: 0845 057 9000, www.halfords.com
Size (mm)/capacity: 250x480x250/30 litres Rating:

RECOMMENDED THE price of this Stanley box was nearly as eye-

catching as its bright yellow highlights. It was the cheapest on test
and also offered the second best price per litre. In the top were a
pair of solid-lidded organisers, although we wouldve liked more than
two divisions inside each, and stronger catches to keep them closed.
With a capacity of 30 litres, the Stanley offered a good compromise
between size and practicality. Uniquely, the tote tray only measured
two-thirds of the box length, so some taller items could be stored
underneath in the main box. When full, it was a squeeze to get
everything in, which made it tricky to hold the handle properly.

Sealey Tool Box AP535

Price: 20.87 Contact: 01284 757500, www.sealey.co.uk
Size (mm)/capacity: 495x230x250/28 litres Rating:

A STYLISH, colourful box from Sealey which coped with our stack
of tools, despite only having a 28-litre capacity. The pair of hefty
chromed latches could be padlocked individually for extra security.
We liked the twin organisers set into the lid which, being opaque,
made it easy to see what was in the five compartments. In addition,
we had confidence in the strong plastic spring clips that kept their
lids closed. Wed have preferred a softer grip on the handle and
extra dividers within the tote, which was simply split in two,
and overall the tool box lost a few points with its price per litre.

62 5 April 2017 www.autoexpress.co.uk

www.auto

TOOL BOXES
Garage storage doesnt come much simpler than a tool box
PRODUCT GROUP TEST 5 | 4 | 2017
Every week, we extensively test all the latest car kit from tyres to trim cleaners.
Log on to www.autoexpress.co.uk to look through our huge online test archive.
Dave Pollard
KEEPING tools loose in your garage
pretty much guarantees that youll never
find the one you want. And leaving them
in the boot creates a source of rattles and
potential damage to car and kit, too.
A tool box is the first step to tidy tools,
and plastic versions are ideal. Theyre
lighter than steel, making them easy to
carry, but just as tough with no sharp
edges or potential to rust. So which is the
one to protect your kit, as well as store
handy spares, such as fuses and cable
ties? We loaded up eight to find out.
How we
tested them
WE took a selection of popular spanners,
screwdrivers, pliers, sockets and ratchet
wrenches to go into the upper tote tray
(where fitted), with other equipment,
such as a torque wrench, hammer, Dremel,
WD-40 can and hacksaw beneath it.
We checked the balance as the lid was
raised some can tip when laden and
that any organiser boxes didnt fly open.
Points were awarded for overall size
balanced against weight, but also clever
design touches and practicality. Prices
from online sources (correct at the
time of writing) were the final factor.
Verdict
THE Curver 157705 blends quality and
practicality with a great-value price for
the win. Silverlines 196114 is your tool
box of choice if you need something larger,
while the well priced Stanley narrowly
lost out due to a slight lack of practicality
in comparison with the top two.
1. Curver Large Toolbox 157705
2. Silverline 196114
3. Stanley 19in Essential Toolbox
www.autoexpress.co.uk
Tool boxes tested Products
Curver Combination
Toolbox XL 155338
Price: 23.45 Contact: www.amazon.co.uk
Size (mm)/capacity: 580x290x300/50 litres Rating:
EASILY the biggest here and with a price that made it the cheapestapest
per litre. The clear plastic organisers were the same as our test winners
(opposite), as were the soft-grip handle and tough plastic latches.hes.
The 100mm deep tote tray seems good, but filling it made it too
heavy to be practical and it robbed space below for our larger tools.
Draper Expert Tool Box TB580
Price: 28.59 Contact: 023 8026 6355, www.drapertools.com
Size (mm)/capacity: 580x265x250/38 litres Rating:
THE Expert came with an expert price tag, which was the
highest on test and per litre. It swallowed our test kit and we
liked the solid, quality feel, soft-grip handle and chromed
latches. There were no lid organisers, but the tote tray had
seven divisions of various sizes. The sculpted ends of the
box were useful for lifting when the box was heavily laden.
Facom BP.C19 Tool Box
Price: 21.95 Contact: 0114 291 7266, www.facom.com
Size (mm)/capacity: 490x260x250/31 litres Rating:
THE Facom was well sized at 31 litres, although the price-
per-litre dropped it points. We liked the two strong, chromed
latches, but despite the quoted length, its interior design
meant we had to fit the torque wrench diagonally, a feature
that hurt its practicality. It featured two organisers built into
the lid with just two divisions each and weak plastic catches.
Silverline 450887
S
Price: 16.40 Contact: 01935 382222, www.silverlinetools.com
Siz (mm)/capacity: 470x238x203/22 litres Rating:
Size
THI model used the same plastic and steel construction
THIS
as its larger brother (opposite) and also shared its design
cues, notably a comfortable handle and reassuring steel
latches. Its small size and rounded corners are good for
carrying it in the car, but its small overall size and lack
of organisers or divisions in the tote counted against it.
5 April 2017 63
 Buying cars New and used buying advice

Martin
YOUR VIEWS ON YOUR CARS Saarinen
Got any car queries?
Martin_Saarinen@dennis.co.uk
@AE_Consumer

Little Fiat losing its cool

Q MY 2012 Fiat 500 goes through a full tank
of coolant every eight weeks. I havent
found any leaks underneath the car. Is
this normal, or should I be worried?
Kirsty Logan, E-mail

A JUST because there are no puddles under the

car, it doesnt mean there isnt a leak if the

Skoda Yeti
coolant drips on the hot engine itll evaporate.

16
Its better to pressure test the tank for leaks.
th Getting through a tank of coolant every eight
weeks sounds excessive, though.
PLACE
YOU TELL US... Skodas first SUV is still a Driver Power hit
GOOD NOT SO GOOD Is my gearbox at fault?
2016 Results Q THE automatic transmission in my Land Rover

Yeti Factfile
IT handles well and feels
safe. For an SUV it has
good running costs.
Years: 2009 to present CO2: 128g/km Does a great job for us
Fuel economy: 51.4mpg (1.2 TSI SE) as a family car, and its
Best options: Cruise control, DAB, rear parking
sensors, heated windscreen, park assist
great to drive, too.
THE plastics feel
a bit cheap.
Road noise can be a bit
wearing with the back
seats folded down.
Discovery Sport holds on to gears for too
long, but Land Rover says the car is fine. Have
you heard of others experiencing the same,
and could the gearbox be faulty?
Steve Tomlinson , E-mail

Build quality is exceptional.

The in-car tech is a bit
dated and the sat-nav could
A THE nine-speed auto is well regarded, although
some owners have complained of false neutrals
in early cars. Have the vehicle independently
Prices: From 4,400 Thoughtful design makes be a little easier to use. inspected to see if a fault exists; you can find
it easy to live with. someone local at www.iaea-online.org.
The level of road tax for a
Bars show where model My second Yeti, if anything diesel with reasonable
OVERALL SCORE finished out of 150 cars in

91.58% our 2016 survey. The lower

the rating the better
its smoother than the
previous 1.2.
economy is a bit high.

Skoda advised me both Q

Clarity on diesel emissions
WITH all thats going on regarding diesel
An awful lot of car for the rear discs were scored but pollution, why arent manufacturers revealing
150 120 75 40 1
money and has exceeded said this was not a warranty nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions in the same
RELIABILITY 31
my expectations so far. issue as I must not be way they do carbon dioxide (CO2)?
BUILD QUALITY 10 braking hard enough. Roger Tinsley, E-mail
RUNNING COSTS 62 Comfortable, well
PERFORMANCE
ROAD HANDLING
RIDE QUALITY
46
14
76
designed, roomy and
very easy to drive.
Its only got 500 miles
on the clock and its been
back five times and now
A CURRENT legislation only requires car makers
to publish CO2 output. Euro 6 emissions
legislation, introduced in 2015, caps NOx
Does so much so well. needs a new gearbox. emissions at 80mg/km for new diesels, and
EASE OF DRIVING 9 new cars cannot pollute above the limit.
SEAT COMFORT 33
PRACTICALITY 27
IN-CAR TECH
HAVE YOUR SAY Rate your new car and dealer at www.autoexpress.co.uk/driver-power
46

warrantywise.co.uk

www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 65

 Buyingcars
NEED
TO KNOW
Dual-mass flywheels have
a habit of failing on cars
with a diesel engine
and manual gearbox;
repairs are costly.
BUYERS GUIDE: Vauxhall Insigni a
FROM 3,000 Arrival of new Insignia makes the old car even better value
Richard Dredge
EVER since the post-war years,
Vauxhall has stood for value-for-money
family motoring, and its imminent purchase
by PSA is unlikely to change that.
When it comes to affordable family
transport, few cars provide better value than
the Insignia. Sitting in a market segment
thats shrinking, the large family car sector
is also dominated by more prestigious
German brands, which is why the Insignia
has an especially tough time. As a used
buyer that plays straight into your hands
though, as hefty depreciation means you
get more car for your money when buying an
Insignia than pretty much any other car on
the market. The question is, should you
buy one and which one, if you do?
History
THE Insignia saloon and hatchback went
on sale in January 2009 with 1.8, 2.0T or
2.8T V6 petrol engines, or a 2.0 CDTi diesel
in 128bhp or 158bhp forms. The Sports
HAVE YOUR SAY ON YOUR NEW CAR AND WIN Tell us what you like and what you loathe at www.autoexpress.co.uk/driver-power
66 5 April 2017
Vauxhall Insignia
NEED
TO KNOW If theres any juddering or
Some early diesel-
engined cars suffered
misfiring at high speeds,
adding some Redex to the
power steering fluid leaks.
Dealers know of this, but
no recall was issued.
Tourer estate arrived two months later
with the same engine and trim options.
In April 2009 the 139g/km 2.0 CDTi
EcoFlex appeared, along with the 321bhp
2.8 V6 VXR, with standard four-wheel drive.
A 1.4T engine arrived in May 2011, then a
facelift in October 2013 brought new
multimedia, improved refinement, fewer
trims, revised suspension and steering
plus 99g/km 2.0 CDTi and 168bhp SIDI
turbo petrol engine options. The high-spec
Country Tourer 4x4 pseudo-SUV appeared at
the same time, with a raised ride height; a
1.6 CDTi joined the range in July 2015.
Which one?
PETROL-engined Insignias are relatively
unusual; as long as you buy one thats
turbocharged itll be zesty, but the diesels
make the most sense as theyre more
plentiful, frugal and muscular.
The 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines
were offered with four-wheel drive (in
saloon, hatch and estate forms with manual
NEED
TO KNOW
fuel tank periodically
can fix things.
or automatic transmissions) perfect if you
tow. The entry-level ES gets ESP, air-con,
cruise control and electrically adjustable/
heated door mirrors. Exclusiv adds climate
control while the SE and SRi also feature
alloys, electric rear windows and privacy
glass. The SRi features sports suspension
and 17-inch wheels; the SRi VX-Line comes
on 19-inch alloys. The range-topping Elite
has front and rear parking sensors,
bi-xenon headlights and leather trim.
Alternatives
THE Insignias key rival is the Ford Mondeo,
which offers everything the Vauxhall does in
terms of availability, a wide model range,
value and practicality but it adds a more
engaging driving experience to the mix. The
Skoda Octavia always does well in our
When it comes to affordable family transport,
few cars provide better value than the Insignia
Driver Power survey thanks to its ease of
ownership and usability; prices are
higher than for the Vauxhall, though.
If value is key, wed suggest you take a
look at the Peugeot 508. You should also
consider the Honda Accord, which offers
smart looks and decent value, but a narrow
model range. The VW Passat is worth a look,
but youll need deeper pockets to buy one.
Verdict
IN isolation the Insignia is a competent car,
not especially lacking in any one area.
Problems appear when you compare it
with rivals many offer more reliability,
space or safety. However, while most beat
the Vauxhall in a few areas, those that beat
it in several invariably cost more which is
why the Insignia is an attractive used buy.
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Vauxhall Insignia Buyingcars

Values courtesy of Glasss Guide

How much?

Tom Wood
Electric faults
Electrical glitches can 66 15 13 11 09
crop up, including the 2017 2015 2013 2011 2009
dashboard displays Model
and/or illumination
1.4T SE 12,895 10,250 7,995 6,250 N/A
switching off. But 1.6T Elite N/A 11,950 9,575 7,495 5,850
such issues are 1.8 SRi 12,895 9,995 8,250 5,725 4,550
unpredictable. 2.0T Elite N/A 12,750 9,995 7,995 6,475
2.0 CDTi 130 SRi N/A 11,795 9,450 6,550 5,150
2.0 CDTi 160 SE 15,695 12,350 8,975 6,895 5,450
2.8i VXR 25,250 19,50014,29510,950 8,395
Bad binding
On some cars the WE found more than 5,500 Insignias for sale as we went
Thanks to Imperial Car rear brake pads can to press. Of the cars available, four out of five were
Supermarkets in Hampshire
for the loan of the Vauxhall
bind. The pads have estates (starting at 3,000), one in five was an auto (also
Insignia pictured. been redesigned, but starting at 3,000) and nine out of 10 were diesels.
any car with older parts Theres a handful of cars available for under 2,500,
Contact: 023 8098 6917 may be suffering from but youll spend at least this to buy an 09-plate 2.0 CDTi
imperialcarsupermarkets.co.uk binding brakes. with 150,000 miles. Cap the mileage at 50,000 and for
4,500 a 2009 1.8i SRi could be yours, while 6,000
secures a 2011 2.0 CDTi Exclusiv with 45,000 miles. VXRs
Spare wheel start at 10,000 for a 10-plate car with 80,000 miles.
A full-size 20-inch alloy
spare wheel will fit in
the boot-mounted Running costs
well. Vauxhall sells
spacers to make it all Fuel CO2 Annual
economy emissions road tax

Insurance group
fit; they cost around
24 for a pair. Model
1.4T 15-18 47-53mpg 124-139g/km 115-135
1.6T 20-23 39mpg 169g/km 220
1.8 16-17 35-38mpg 169-187g/km 220-280
Alloys 2.0T
VXR
26-27
36-38
30-36mpg
25-26mpg
184-219g/km
249-255g/km
240-305
520
Big 19 or 20-inch 1.6 CDTi 17-18 72-74mpg 99-104g/km Free-20
alloy wheels arent 2.0 CDTi 16-23 42-65mpg 114-175g/km 20-220
unusual, but these
can spoil the ride ALL Insignias need to be serviced every 12 months or
and are prone to 20,000 miles. Services alternate between minor and
buckling, leading to major, priced at 149 and 249, regardless of which
annoying vibrations. engine is fitted (although this excludes VXR models,
which have to be quoted for separately).

a
Once over three-years old, prices drop to 149 and
Performance Running costs CO2/tax 199 for minor and major services. The 1.6 and 1.8-litre
0-62mph/top speed 42-65mpg (2.0 CDTi 160) 114-175g/km petrol engines have a cambelt; so does the 2.0 CDTi. The
9.3 seconds/132mph 84 fill-up 20-220 belt should be renewed every six years or 100,000 miles,
at 269. The brake fluid has to be renewed every two
years or 40,000 miles at a cost of 45. An air-con
service (due every two to three years) costs 99.

www.autoexpress.co.uk/driverpower
OUR VIEW
A SCORE of 136th in the 2016 Driver
Power satisfaction survey is no surprise
for whats now an ageing car. However,
just one top 100 score is disappointing
(67th for practicality). Next came 112th
for seat comfort, while the lowest
rating was 142nd for ease of driving.
Reliability was rated at 141st.
YOUR VIEW
MIKE Hamer, from Leicester, loves the
value his Vauxhall represents. He says:
It isnt fun to drive, but as a used buy
it represented spectacular value. Its
comfortable and roomy, plus it costs
very little to run. Reliability has been
good too if youre not a brand
snob, its the ideal family car.
Partwatch
Dealer price Independent price
Part
Front brake pads (axle set) 67.20 33.99
Front brake discs (pair) 126 93.98
Door mirror glass (electric) 59.76 7.99*
Front wiper set 34.14 21.28
Prices for a 2013 Insignia 2.0 CDTi 160. Dealer prices from
Vauxhall UK (www.vauxhall.co.uk). Independent prices from
Euro Car Parts (www.eurocarparts.com) *Price from
www.carwingmirrors.co.uk
Interior Contacts
THE cabin is comfortable and
roomy, and the seats have a wide
Official
www.vauxhall.co.uk
Recalls
range of adjustment; the optional Forums THE first recall came in November 2010 due to a problem
www.insignia-owners.com
Ergonomic Sports Seats are worth with the drivers airbag. In January 2011 some cars were
https://insignia-drivers.uk
seeking out. Rear seat space is www.vauxhallownersnetwork.co.uk recalled as the electric window anti-trap could fail. Estates
good, while boot space is 530 www.vodc.co.uk built up to March 2015 were recalled in May 2015 as the
litres seats up, or 1,470 with them tailgates gas struts could fail. In July 2016 it was noted
folded down (for the hatch; estate that the steering could fail on some cars built in April 2016.
figures are 530 and 1,530 litres).

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www.autoexpress.co.uk 5 April 2017 67
 Buyingcars Best buys
Car hunter
15,000 for a roomy 4WD SUV, but which one?
THE DEPENDABLE CHOICE
CARS
Kia Sportage
FOR: Smart styling, well equipped, warranty
AGAINST: Firm ride, rear seat space
THE Kia Sportage Mk3 was such a big improvement
over the car it replaced that it helped to significantly
lift the Korean brands reputation in Europe.
The sharp exterior styling still looks good today,
and is matched by a well equipped interior. The
Sportages 2.0-litre diesel is punchy and the handling
is tidy, but it cant match the Mazda or Ford for ride
quality and power. We spotted a 63-plate 2.0 CRDi
KX-3 auto with 31,000 miles for 14,499.
INTERIOR
INSIDE, the Sportages cabin isnt as well styled as its
exterior, but its less fiddly than the Fords. Some of
the materials look dated, however, and while the
564-litre boot is good, the Kia lacks rear headroom.
RELIABILITY
SPORTAGES sold in 2010 will have only just gone
out of warranty, thanks to Kias excellent seven-year
coverage. It finished in a strong 46th place for
reliability in our Driver Power 2016 satisfaction survey.
HAVE YOUR SAY ON YOUR NEW CAR Tell us what you like (and dont) about your car at www.autoexpress.co.uk/driver-power
68 5 April 2017
Dear Lawrence, Were upgrading our VW Golf to an
SUV with four-wheel drive, but with dogs it needs to
have a large boot. What should we look at for 15k?
Jim Dobson, Sussex
Contact: Lawrence_Allan@dennis.co.uk
THE POPULAR CHOICE THE STYLISH CHOICE
Ford Kuga Mazda CX-5
FOR: Cheap to buy, comfortable, practical FOR: Stylish cabin, good-to-drive, big boot
AGAINST: Fiddly dash, reliability AGAINST: Slightly unsettled ride, price
FORDS Kuga became more than a jacked-up Focus MAZDAS CX-5 is still one of our favourite crossovers,
for the 2013 model, with a more grown-up feel. and for good reason. It looks good inside and out
The design wont be to all tastes particularly the thanks to the brands Kodo design language, while
interior with its button-heavy layout but theres no theres a hint of the MX-5 sports car in the well
arguing with the space on offer. It drives well, too weighted controls and its agile feel on the road.
its not as enjoyable as the Mazda, but it soaks up The 2.2-litre diesel is punchy, flexible and refined.
bumps well (on the smaller wheels), and the diesel Its even pretty economical, and it offers the most
is refined. In the classifieds was a 2014 2.0 TDCI space for people and dogs. We saw a 2014 2.2D
Titanium 4x4 with 35,000 miles for 14,000 SE-L Nav 4x4 with 47,000 miles for 14,495.
THE Kuga is certainly well equipped, but confusing DRIVER-focused interior looks smart, while the Mazdas
buttons and a small screen make the infotainment cabin feels robust and is high quality. Its a shame, then,
a pain to use. However, the 456-litre boot is well that pre-2015 cars have a dated sat-nav system. The
shaped, and rear seat space is better than in the Kia. 503-litre boot is a useful size and uniform in shape.
WHILE the sheer number of Kugas about doesnt THE Mazda finished in a slightly lacklustre 87th place
help, 107th place for reliability in our Driver Power for reliability in our Driver Power 2016 satisfaction
2016 satisfaction survey isnt great. Electrical gremlins survey. Heaters can stop working, while clutches on
and Powershift auto gearboxes cause the biggest issues. manual cars dont hold up to abusive driving well.
www.autoexpress.co.uk
 Buyingcars
Quick off
the mark
Thrilling four-wheel-drive sports cars go head-to-head
Porsches cabin
is clean, with
soft plastics
Porsche 911
26.3mpg (on test)
67 fill-up
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS PDK
Years: 2015 to 2016 Engine: 3.8-litre flat-six, 424bhp
Ins grp: 50 Official econ/CO2: 31mpg/212g/km
Why? The GTS is one of the best-ever 911s, and
as the last non-turbo, its a genuine collectors item.
Prices from: 88,000
TO Porsche fans, the GTS badge has a strong
pedigree, first appearing on a very successful
racing car in the sixties. Now the GTS offers a
911 driving experience inspired by the track-
focused GT3 yet it doesnt compromise the
qualities that make the 911 usable everyday.
The Porsche 911 GTS elevates the standard
Carrera S to the next level, and excels in
offering a rich depth to the way it serves up its
performance. Its chassis is so well engineered
that it urges you to push it harder to levels
where it really delivers. The rear-drive GTS with
a manual box may prove more involving, but in
four-wheel drive auto form, the 911 offers
immense all-weather ability. Thread the 911
GTS down a twisty road and the fluidity with
which it flows makes you wonder whether you
need a car with any more performance or grip.
The 911 GTS didnt rank in our Driver Power
satisfaction survey, but Porsche always tops
the charts for handling and performance. The
brand itself dropped to 14th overall, though.
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70 5 April 2017
Used twin test
Few sports cars are as usable
as the 911, and the GTS
enhances its dynamics
1
Porsche 911 GTS
IN the world of high-performance
coups, price takes a bit of a
back seat to the driving
experience and here its the
911 GTS thats the more
capable and special machine.
Looks are stunning, and
the Jaguars engine is both
powerful and tuneful
2 Jaguar F-Type R
most drivers with its ability to get all of that
THERES no doubting the theatre
of the F-Type R, but next to the
finesse of the 911, it feels more
like a blunt instrument. It costs
less to buy, but doesnt feel
as special on the road.
Inside, the
Jaguars dash
layout is classy
Jag F-Type
20.9mpg (on test)
84 fill-up
Jaguar F-Type V8R AWD Coupe
Years: 2015 to date Engine: 5.0-litre V8, 542bhp
Ins grp: 50 Official econ/CO2: 25mpg/269g/km
Why? Jaguar is much more affordable on used market
than the Porsche, and its still great fun to drive.
Prices from: 63,480
THE F-Type Coup is a car that wraps up all
thats good about the Jaguar brand a make
thats on something of a roll in recent years. Its
stunning to look at, thrilling to own, and is
boldly breaking down barriers in a premium
sports car sector where German rival
Porsche has dominated for so long.
Brutally loud and incredibly powerful, the
supercharged 5.0-litre V8 is the star of the
show and with the throttle wide open, theres
nothing else like it. In our test, when revving,
the F-Types exhaust peaked at 115dB.
In corners, the car is lively, although its not
a match for the 911. The all-wheel drive flatters
power to the road without drama, while
the electric power steering isnt corrupted
in any way its still faithfully responsive.
Jaguar finished a slightly disappointing
17th place overall in our Driver Power 2016
poll, a few places behind Porsche but that
was a big drop from second place in 2015.
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P1467P
 Sport All the action from the world of motorsport

PODIUM STARS
Hamilton, Vettel and Valtteri Bottas
made up the top three in Australia

Vettel set to challenge in China

Stephen Errity
Stephen_Errity@dennis.co.uk
MERCEDES Lewis Hamilton is expecting
a strong title challenge from Sebastian
Vettel, after the Ferrari driver triumphed at
the Formula One season opener last month.
Heading into this weekends Chinese Grand
Prix, the British triple champion said: I think
this year were seeing the best drivers at the
top... Im really grateful to have that fight
with [Sebastian], against Ferrari. Its great.
Its going to be a very hard slog this season.
F1 circus moves on to Shanghai TRIPLE
Hamilton expecting tough fight THREAT
Corsica will
be the first time
fun to race for victories against the best. Its this year that
good to know that we have a great car, but Citroen has
its just the beginning: with new regulations had three C3
and new cars, therell be a lot of progress. WRCs in action
For its part, Hamiltons Mercedes team
has promised a swift response to defeat in
Australia, with team boss Toto Wolff describing
losing to Ferrari as personality building.
We will come back stronger, said the

WRC battle moves to Corsica

Racing the best is what Formula One is Austrian. We didnt have great testing and we
all about and it makes you work that much didnt have a great Sunday, but we will leave
harder... Im looking forward to that. no stone unturned in order to win more.
Vettel added: [Hamilton] has proven to The Northants-based squad is said to be ANTICIPATION is high ahead of this weekends fourth round of the 2017
be one of the quickest drivers on the grid and focusing on reducing the weight of its W08 car, World Rally Championship, which takes place on the French island of
Id love to have a close battle. Obviously right with an unconfirmed report in the German Corsica. The three rounds of the series so far have been won by three
now it looks like we have equal machinery. press saying it was 5kg above a 728kg target different manufacturers; M-Sport Fords Sebastien Ogier holds a lead
I hope it stays that way and then we will weight. Hamilton called on the team to look of just eight points over Toyotas Jari-Matti Latvala at the top of the table.
see how it turns out. Its obviously a lot of at how the car is using the new Pirelli tyres. Having won in Mexico last time out, Citroens chances will be boosted
by an expansion from two to three new-generation C3 WRCs. Hyundai,
Hamiltons Mercedes squad has promised a swift response meanwhile, will be looking for its first win of the season, with tarmac
aces Thierry Neuville and Dani Sordo in particular expected to shine.
after losing out to Ferrari at the season opener in Australia

WTCC delays joker laps TIGHT FIT

Overtaking has proved tricky around
Moroccos narrow street circuit layout

PLANS to run rallycross-style joker laps at
the World Touring Car Championship season
opener in Marrakech, Morocco, this weekend
have been put on hold, but the concept could
still be used at races later in the season.
Joker laps take the form of a shortcut that
each driver has to take once during the course
of a race, leading to tactical decisions about
taking it early or late in the running. Problems
with government approval for extra building
work due to a political deadlock in Morocco
meant the championship organisers and the
FIA have decided not to proceed with the idea.
Theyll instead look at implementing it for the
Portuguese round at Vila Real in late June.
Both Moroccan and Portuguese events take
place on extremely narrow street circuits that
offer very limited opportunities for overtaking,
which led to the suggestion of joker laps as a
way to improve the spectacle at these races.

80 5 April 2017
 Back chat
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