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Showing posts with label Jaguar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jaguar. Show all posts
Thursday, May 19, 2011
2011 jaguar xf r cars wallpapers and features reviews
2011 jaguar xf r cars wallpapers and features reviews
http://masti-jokes.blogspot.com/2011/05/2011-infiniti-g37-car-prices-and.html
http://masti-jokes.blogspot.com/2011/05/2011-infiniti-g37-car-prices-and.html
Monday, May 16, 2011
2011 Jaguar XF Review Car Prices and specification with wallpapers
2011 Jaguar XF Review Car Prices and specification with wallpapers
The Jaguar XF is a mid-sized sports luxury car produced by Jaguar. It is a replacement model to Jaguar S-Type luxury version.
Jaguar XF Review
The Jaguar XF is the base model that comes equipped with normal standard amenities, while the XFR is a high performance version that comes with additional advanced luxury features. The sports luxury model is intended mainly for North American market.
The Jaguar XF is a mid-sized sports luxury car produced by Jaguar. It is a replacement model to Jaguar S-Type luxury version.
The Jaguar XF is the base model that comes equipped with normal standard amenities, while the XFR is a high performance version that comes with additional advanced luxury features. The sports luxury model is intended mainly for North American market.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Jaguar to build C-X75
Jaguar has announced that its C-X75 supercar is to make it to production, with the project getting assistance from the Williams F1 team.
Although the micro-turbine of the original 2010 Paris Motor Show concept will be swapped for a small capacity internal combustion engine, the C-X75 remains a hybrid thanks to a pair of electric motors powering an axle each.
That arrangement is claimed to offer an astonishing combination of performance and efficiency.
The targets are a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) acceleration time of under three seconds and a top speed of over 200 mph (321 km/h), combined with CO2 emissions of less than 99 g/km. What’s more, the C-X75 should be able to operate as a pure electric vehicle for at least 30 miles (50 kilometres).
Williams F1’s involvement is to focus on aerodynamics, hybrid technologies and the use of carbon composites for the Jaguar’s chassis.
Only 250 examples of the Jaguar C-X75 are going to be built, and prices will be between £700,000 and £900,000 depending on local taxes. That’s around €800,400 - €1,030,000 or US$1,146,000 - US$1,473,400 based on today’s exchange rates.
Although the micro-turbine of the original 2010 Paris Motor Show concept will be swapped for a small capacity internal combustion engine, the C-X75 remains a hybrid thanks to a pair of electric motors powering an axle each.
That arrangement is claimed to offer an astonishing combination of performance and efficiency.
The targets are a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) acceleration time of under three seconds and a top speed of over 200 mph (321 km/h), combined with CO2 emissions of less than 99 g/km. What’s more, the C-X75 should be able to operate as a pure electric vehicle for at least 30 miles (50 kilometres).
Williams F1’s involvement is to focus on aerodynamics, hybrid technologies and the use of carbon composites for the Jaguar’s chassis.
Only 250 examples of the Jaguar C-X75 are going to be built, and prices will be between £700,000 and £900,000 depending on local taxes. That’s around €800,400 - €1,030,000 or US$1,146,000 - US$1,473,400 based on today’s exchange rates.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
2011 Jaguar X Type Sport Premium Specifications, Pictures, Prices
2011 Jaguar X Type Sport Premium Specifications, Pictures, Prices
Jaguar Car newshttp://masti-jokes.blogspot.com/search/label/Jaguar%20cars
Jaguar Car newshttp://masti-jokes.blogspot.com/search/label/Jaguar%20cars
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Jaguar XF 2.2 litre diesel
Jaguar’s XF saloon will soon be getting a 2.2 litre, four-cylinder diesel engine, a crucial addition to the range that should help steal further sales from its competitors.
Connected to an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, the longitudinally mounted 187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS) motor is claimed to be good for a 0-62 mph (100km/h) time of 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h).
The car’s target customers - especially fleet users - are probably going to be more concerned about efficiency rather than performance, though. And they shouldn’t be disappointed, because the XF will manage 52.3 mpg (5.4 l/100km) on the combined cycle while producing 149 g/km of CO2.
Fuel saving devices include an intelligent stop-start system, which has been engineered to reduce the time taken during the shut-down and start-up phases, and high seventh and eighth gear ratios that effectively act as an overdrive facility.
But how does the new Jaguar compare to some of its diesel rivals? Well, judging by the figures, it seems right on the money, although the BMW 5 Series remains marginally quicker, more frugal and less polluting.
The introduction of the 2.2 litre XF will coincide with a facelift for the car, hence the disguise seen in the image.
Full production specifications and market launch dates are due to be announced at the New York International Auto Show, which opens to the public on the 22nd of April.
Connected to an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, the longitudinally mounted 187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS) motor is claimed to be good for a 0-62 mph (100km/h) time of 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h).
The car’s target customers - especially fleet users - are probably going to be more concerned about efficiency rather than performance, though. And they shouldn’t be disappointed, because the XF will manage 52.3 mpg (5.4 l/100km) on the combined cycle while producing 149 g/km of CO2.
Fuel saving devices include an intelligent stop-start system, which has been engineered to reduce the time taken during the shut-down and start-up phases, and high seventh and eighth gear ratios that effectively act as an overdrive facility.
But how does the new Jaguar compare to some of its diesel rivals? Well, judging by the figures, it seems right on the money, although the BMW 5 Series remains marginally quicker, more frugal and less polluting.
| Manufacturer | Jaguar | BMW | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model | XF 2.2 Diesel | 520d Auto | S80 D5 Geartronic | E 220 CDI Auto |
| Capacity (cc) | 2,179 | 1,995 | 2,400 | 2,143 |
| Power (bhp / kW / PS) | 187 / 140 / 190 | 181 / 135 / 184 | 202 / 151 / 205 | 167 / 125 / 170 |
| Torque (Nm / lb/ft) | 450 / 332 | 380 / 280 | 420 / 309 | 400 / 295 |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph (100 km/h) | 8.5 secs | 8.1 secs | 8.0 secs | 8.8 secs |
| Top Speed (mph / km/h) | 140 / 225 | 140 / 225 | 140 / 225 | 141 / 226 |
| Fuel Consumption (mpg / l/100km) | 52.3 / 5.4 | 54.3 / 5.2 | 44.8 / 6.3 | 48.7 / 5.8 |
| CO2 Emissions (g/km) | 149 | 137 | 166 | 154 |
| UK Company Car BIK Rate* | 22% | 20% | 26% | 23% |
| *2011-12 tax year. | ||||
The introduction of the 2.2 litre XF will coincide with a facelift for the car, hence the disguise seen in the image.
Full production specifications and market launch dates are due to be announced at the New York International Auto Show, which opens to the public on the 22nd of April.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
542 bhp Jaguar XKR-S
Offering a respite from the numerous electric vehicles and hybrids at the Geneva International Motor Show will be the Jaguar XKR-S.
Featuring a reworked supercharged V8 engine, it boasts an output of 542 bhp (404 kW / 550 PS) - exactly the same as Jaguar’s seminal XJ220 supercar from the 1990s.
With a correspondingly healthy 680 Nm (501 lb/ft) of torque, the XKR-S will accelerate from zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 4.2 seconds before going on to a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). That makes it the fastest Jaguar road car ever, comfortably outpacing the standard XKR.
To go with the extra performance are tweaked suspension settings, a reprogrammed Adaptive Dynamics system and revised aerodynamics.
A price for the XKR-S has yet to be confirmed but, with the stock XKR costing £77,900 in the UK, expect to have to part with around £90,000. That would make it virtually the same as the slightly slower Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
Featuring a reworked supercharged V8 engine, it boasts an output of 542 bhp (404 kW / 550 PS) - exactly the same as Jaguar’s seminal XJ220 supercar from the 1990s.
With a correspondingly healthy 680 Nm (501 lb/ft) of torque, the XKR-S will accelerate from zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 4.2 seconds before going on to a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). That makes it the fastest Jaguar road car ever, comfortably outpacing the standard XKR.
To go with the extra performance are tweaked suspension settings, a reprogrammed Adaptive Dynamics system and revised aerodynamics.
A price for the XKR-S has yet to be confirmed but, with the stock XKR costing £77,900 in the UK, expect to have to part with around £90,000. That would make it virtually the same as the slightly slower Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Jaguar Bertone B99
Bertone has unveiled the B99 concept, its take on what a future small Jaguar should look like.
Measuring 4.6 metres long - about the same as a BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class - it’s an extremely elegant design that mimics the glasshouse and overall proportions of previous generation XJ saloons.
And that’s the problem, because Jaguar styling has moved on over the past five years.
The XF and current XJ demonstrate a conscious effort to break away from the constraints of a retro design language. That makes it hard to see the regressive B99 sitting comfortably within today’s range.
It’s also questionable whether certain features, such as the low roofline, clamshell doors and pillarless construction, would actually be carried over onto a production version. Take those away, and the danger is that Jaguar would end up with another X-Type. Not necessarily a bad car, but not the best-looking Jaguar ever, either.
Measuring 4.6 metres long - about the same as a BMW 3 Series or Mercedes-Benz C-Class - it’s an extremely elegant design that mimics the glasshouse and overall proportions of previous generation XJ saloons.
And that’s the problem, because Jaguar styling has moved on over the past five years.
The XF and current XJ demonstrate a conscious effort to break away from the constraints of a retro design language. That makes it hard to see the regressive B99 sitting comfortably within today’s range.
It’s also questionable whether certain features, such as the low roofline, clamshell doors and pillarless construction, would actually be carried over onto a production version. Take those away, and the danger is that Jaguar would end up with another X-Type. Not necessarily a bad car, but not the best-looking Jaguar ever, either.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
World Car Awards finalists
Sixty-six jurors from across the world have completed a first round of voting to determine the 2011 World Car Awards finalists.
With four different awards up for grabs, the shortlist models - in alphabetical order - are:
2011 World Car of the Year
Obviously, this is the big prize. Each of the finalists will be judged on ‘overall merit, value, safety, environmental responsibility, emotional appeal and significance’, a combination that has lead to some previous winners being very worthy but also just a bit dull.
What’s striking is that 2011’s entire crop is from premium or, in the case of the Volvo and Jeep, semi-premium manufacturers. Even the Nissan isn’t exactly mainstream, given its relatively high price.
The Leaf could well repeat its 2011 European Car of the Year victory, but it does tend to divide opinion. There are those who believe it almost makes petrol or diesel cars obsolete, while others won’t back an all-electric car until both battery range and the recharging infrastructure improve.
It’s hard to see either the SLS AMG or Cayenne winning, given their comparative lack of environmental responsibility. The BMW 5 Series has to be a contender given its all-round ability, but it would be good to see the Jaguar XJ clinch it, simply because it represents such a brave departure from previous generation XJ models.
Audi’s A1 probably ticks all the boxes. However, it’d be a shame for it to win because it’s essentially a tarted-up version of last year’s World Car of the Year, the Volkswagen Polo.
2011 World Performance Car
This category is wide open, as it includes everything from a compact hot hatch to numerous supercars for the jurors to choose from. Audi has won the performance car award three times in the past five years, but it’ll be a surprise if the feat is repeated with the RS 5.
2011 World Car Design of the Year
There were originally fifty-one candidates in this category, which is expected to ‘highlight new vehicles with innovation and style that push established boundaries’ - a demanding set of criteria.
On that basis, the Aston Martin would seem to be a strong challenger, but arguably it’s the Nissan Juke that truly stands out as a unique design.
The shortlist was decided by a panel of five design experts but, as with all of the other awards, it’s now solely up to the jurors to arrive at a winner.
2011 World Green Car
Three environmental experts were asked to draw up the finalists for this award based on emissions, fuel consumption and the power plant technology employed.
Perhaps the Leaf stands a stronger chance of winning this category, but it may be the case that more jurors consider the Volt’s range extender concept as being more practical for everyday use.
But with its 109 g/km and combined cycle 68.9 mpg (4.0 l/100km), the 320d Efficient Dynamics Edition proves that cars with a traditional internal combustion engine can still be impressively green.
The next stage is that during February the jurors will vote again, but this time just on the finalists.
Following that ballot, the top three cars in each category will be announced at the Geneva International Motor Show on 1st March.
Then, bringing the process to a close, the 2011 World Car Awards winners will be declared during the New York International Auto Show in April.
With four different awards up for grabs, the shortlist models - in alphabetical order - are:
2011 World Car of the Year
- Audi A1
- Audi A8
- BMW 5 Series
- BMW X3
- Jaguar XJ
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
- Nissan Leaf
- Porsche Cayenne
- Volvo S60 / V60
Obviously, this is the big prize. Each of the finalists will be judged on ‘overall merit, value, safety, environmental responsibility, emotional appeal and significance’, a combination that has lead to some previous winners being very worthy but also just a bit dull.
What’s striking is that 2011’s entire crop is from premium or, in the case of the Volvo and Jeep, semi-premium manufacturers. Even the Nissan isn’t exactly mainstream, given its relatively high price.
It’s hard to see either the SLS AMG or Cayenne winning, given their comparative lack of environmental responsibility. The BMW 5 Series has to be a contender given its all-round ability, but it would be good to see the Jaguar XJ clinch it, simply because it represents such a brave departure from previous generation XJ models.
Audi’s A1 probably ticks all the boxes. However, it’d be a shame for it to win because it’s essentially a tarted-up version of last year’s World Car of the Year, the Volkswagen Polo.
2011 World Performance Car
- Aston Martin Rapide
- Audi RS 5 Coupe
- Cadillac CTS-V Coupe
- Ferrari 458 Italia
- Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera
- Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG / CL 63 AMG
- Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
- Porsche 911 GT2 RS
- Porsche 911 Turbo
- Renault Mégane Renaultsport 250
2011 World Car Design of the Year
- Alfa Romeo Giulietta
- Aston Martin Rapide
- Audi A7
- Citroën DS3
- Ferrari 458
- Honda CR-Z
- Kia Sportage
- Nissan Juke
There were originally fifty-one candidates in this category, which is expected to ‘highlight new vehicles with innovation and style that push established boundaries’ - a demanding set of criteria.
The shortlist was decided by a panel of five design experts but, as with all of the other awards, it’s now solely up to the jurors to arrive at a winner.
2011 World Green Car
- BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics Edition
- Chevrolet Volt
- Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
- Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-Cell
- Nissan Leaf
- Smart electric drive
Three environmental experts were asked to draw up the finalists for this award based on emissions, fuel consumption and the power plant technology employed.
But with its 109 g/km and combined cycle 68.9 mpg (4.0 l/100km), the 320d Efficient Dynamics Edition proves that cars with a traditional internal combustion engine can still be impressively green.
The next stage is that during February the jurors will vote again, but this time just on the finalists.
Following that ballot, the top three cars in each category will be announced at the Geneva International Motor Show on 1st March.
Then, bringing the process to a close, the 2011 World Car Awards winners will be declared during the New York International Auto Show in April.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Business Car of the Year
UK publication Business Car has announced the winners of its 2011 Awards, which were voted for by readers rather than being decided by a jury.
It was a successful haul for the BMW Group as it took top honours in six out of the thirteen vehicle categories, as well as being declared overall manufacturer of the year. Clearly desirability, solid residuals, decent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions are all attributes that continue to keep both drivers and fleet managers happy.
Business Car Awards 2011 winners
Vehicle categories
Manufacturer of the Year: BMW
Business Car of the Year: BMW 5 Series
Green Model of the Year: BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics
City Car: Fiat 500
Supermini: Mini
Lower Medium: Audi A3
Upper Medium: BMW 3 Series
Executive: BMW 5 Series
Luxury: Jaguar XJ
Large 4x4: BMW X5
Small 4x4: Audi Q5
Mini-MPV: Volkswagen Touran
MPV: Ford S-MAX
Sporting Car: Audi R8
Service supplier categories
Service Supplier of the Year: Lex Autolease
Accident Management: The AA
Daily Rental: Enterprise
Fast-Fit: Kwik-Fit Fleet
Insurance: Aviva
Leasing and Fleet Management: Lex Autolease
It was a successful haul for the BMW Group as it took top honours in six out of the thirteen vehicle categories, as well as being declared overall manufacturer of the year. Clearly desirability, solid residuals, decent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions are all attributes that continue to keep both drivers and fleet managers happy.
Business Car Awards 2011 winners
Vehicle categories
Manufacturer of the Year: BMW
Business Car of the Year: BMW 5 Series
Green Model of the Year: BMW 320d Efficient Dynamics
City Car: Fiat 500
Supermini: Mini
Lower Medium: Audi A3
Upper Medium: BMW 3 Series
Executive: BMW 5 Series
Luxury: Jaguar XJ
Large 4x4: BMW X5
Small 4x4: Audi Q5
Mini-MPV: Volkswagen Touran
MPV: Ford S-MAX
Sporting Car: Audi R8
Service supplier categories
Service Supplier of the Year: Lex Autolease
Accident Management: The AA
Daily Rental: Enterprise
Fast-Fit: Kwik-Fit Fleet
Insurance: Aviva
Leasing and Fleet Management: Lex Autolease
Sunday, January 16, 2011
2011 What Car? Awards
UK publication What Car? has announced its 2011 Car of the Year winners.
During a ceremony held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London, prizes were awarded across seventeen vehicle categories, with one model going on to be declared overall champion.
Supermini
Shortlist
Best buy less than £9,000: Hyundai i10 1.2 Comfort
Best buy £9,000 - £13,000: Ford Fiesta 1.25 82 Zetec 5dr
Best buy more than £13,000: Audi A1 1.4 TFSI Sport
Winner
Audi A1 1.4 TFSI Sport
Small family car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £15,000: Skoda Octavia 1.2 TSI SE
Best buy £15,000 - £20,000: Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 122 Match 5dr
Best buy more than £20,000: Toyota Prius 1.8 VVT-i T3
Winner
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 122 Match 5dr
Family car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £18,000: Skoda Superb 1.4 TSI S
Best buy £18,000 - £21,000: Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
Best buy more than £21,000: Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI 140 SE
Winner
Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
Estate car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £16,500: Skoda Octavia Estate 1.4 TSI SE
Best buy £16,000 - £22,000: Ford Mondeo Estate 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
Best buy more than £22,000: BMW 5 Series Touring 520d SE
Winner
Ford Mondeo Estate 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
MPV
Shortlist
Best buy less than £16,000: Citroën C3 Picasso 1.6 VTi VTR+
Best buy £16,000 - £22,000: Peugeot 5008 1.6 HDi 112 Sport
Best buy more than £22,000: Seat Alhambra 2.0 TDI 140 Ecomotive S
Winner
Seat Alhambra 2.0 TDI 140 Ecomotive S
Hot hatch
Shortlist
Best buy less than £15,000: Renault Twingo Renaultsport 133 Cup
Best buy £15,000 - £20,000: Renault Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup
Best buy more than £20,000: Renault Mégane Renaultsport 250 Cup
Winner
Renault Mégane Renaultsport 250 Cup
Coupé
Shortlist
Best buy less than £25,000: Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4 TSI 160
Best buy £25,000 - £40,000: Audi TT 2.0 TFSI 211 Sport
Best buy more than £40,000: Jaguar XKR
Winner
Audi TT 2.0 TFSI 211 Sport
Open-top
Shortlist
Best buy less than £25,000: Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE AC
Best buy £25,000 - £35,000: BMW Z4 sDrive23i
Best buy more than £35,000: Mercedes-Benz E350 CDI Cab Blue Efficiency SE
Winner
BMW Z4 sDrive23i
Performance car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £60,000: Lotus Evora 3.5 V6
Best buy £60,000 - £120,000: Audi R8 Spyder V10
Best buy more than £120,000: Ferrari 458 Italia
Winner
Ferrari 458 Italia
Crossover
Shortlist
Best buy less than £15,000: Nissan Juke 1.6 Visia
Best buy £15,000 - £20,000: Peugeot 3008 1.6 THP 156 Sport
Best buy more than £20,000: Volvo XC60 2.0 D3 DRIVe SE
Winner
Peugeot 3008 1.6 THP 156 Sport
4x4
Shortlist
Best buy less than £30,000: Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi Style 7 seats
Best buy £30,000 - £40,000: BMW X3 xDrive20d SE
Best buy more than £40,000: Land Rover Discovery 3.0 SDV6 XS
Winner
Land Rover Discovery 3.0 SDV6 XS
Compact executive
Shortlist
Best buy less than £25,000: BMW 3 Series 316d ES
Best buy £25,000 - £30,000: BMW 3 Series 320d ES
Best buy more than £30,000: BMW 3 Series 330d SE
Winner
BMW 3 Series 320d ES
Executive car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £30,000: BMW 5 Series 520d SE
Best buy £30,000 - £40,000: Jaguar XF 3.0D V6 Luxury
Best buy more than £40,000: Audi A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI 245 quattro SE
Winner
Jaguar XF 3.0D V6 Luxury
Luxury car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £65,000: Mercedes-Benz S-Class S350 CDI BluTEC
Best buy £65,000 - £100,000: Range Rover 4.4 TDV8 Vogue
Best buy more than £100,000: Rolls-Royce Phantom
Winner
Mercedes-Benz S-Class S350 CDI BluTEC
Ultra-low carbon car
Winner
Nissan Leaf
Safety Award
Winner
Volvo for Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake
Security Award
Winner
Volkswagen
What Car? Car of the Year 2011
Winner
Audi A1 1.4 TFSI Sport
During a ceremony held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London, prizes were awarded across seventeen vehicle categories, with one model going on to be declared overall champion.
Supermini
Shortlist
Best buy less than £9,000: Hyundai i10 1.2 Comfort
Best buy £9,000 - £13,000: Ford Fiesta 1.25 82 Zetec 5dr
Best buy more than £13,000: Audi A1 1.4 TFSI Sport
Winner
Audi A1 1.4 TFSI Sport
Small family car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £15,000: Skoda Octavia 1.2 TSI SE
Best buy £15,000 - £20,000: Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 122 Match 5dr
Best buy more than £20,000: Toyota Prius 1.8 VVT-i T3
Winner
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI 122 Match 5dr
Family car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £18,000: Skoda Superb 1.4 TSI S
Best buy £18,000 - £21,000: Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
Best buy more than £21,000: Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI 140 SE
Winner
Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
Estate car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £16,500: Skoda Octavia Estate 1.4 TSI SE
Best buy £16,000 - £22,000: Ford Mondeo Estate 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
Best buy more than £22,000: BMW 5 Series Touring 520d SE
Winner
Ford Mondeo Estate 2.0 TDCi 140 Zetec
MPV
Shortlist
Best buy less than £16,000: Citroën C3 Picasso 1.6 VTi VTR+
Best buy £16,000 - £22,000: Peugeot 5008 1.6 HDi 112 Sport
Best buy more than £22,000: Seat Alhambra 2.0 TDI 140 Ecomotive S
Winner
Seat Alhambra 2.0 TDI 140 Ecomotive S
Hot hatch
Shortlist
Best buy less than £15,000: Renault Twingo Renaultsport 133 Cup
Best buy £15,000 - £20,000: Renault Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup
Best buy more than £20,000: Renault Mégane Renaultsport 250 Cup
Winner
Renault Mégane Renaultsport 250 Cup
Coupé
Shortlist
Best buy less than £25,000: Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4 TSI 160
Best buy £25,000 - £40,000: Audi TT 2.0 TFSI 211 Sport
Best buy more than £40,000: Jaguar XKR
Winner
Audi TT 2.0 TFSI 211 Sport
Open-top
Shortlist
Best buy less than £25,000: Mazda MX-5 1.8i SE AC
Best buy £25,000 - £35,000: BMW Z4 sDrive23i
Best buy more than £35,000: Mercedes-Benz E350 CDI Cab Blue Efficiency SE
Winner
BMW Z4 sDrive23i
Performance car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £60,000: Lotus Evora 3.5 V6
Best buy £60,000 - £120,000: Audi R8 Spyder V10
Best buy more than £120,000: Ferrari 458 Italia
Winner
Ferrari 458 Italia
Crossover
Shortlist
Best buy less than £15,000: Nissan Juke 1.6 Visia
Best buy £15,000 - £20,000: Peugeot 3008 1.6 THP 156 Sport
Best buy more than £20,000: Volvo XC60 2.0 D3 DRIVe SE
Winner
Peugeot 3008 1.6 THP 156 Sport
4x4
Shortlist
Best buy less than £30,000: Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi Style 7 seats
Best buy £30,000 - £40,000: BMW X3 xDrive20d SE
Best buy more than £40,000: Land Rover Discovery 3.0 SDV6 XS
Winner
Land Rover Discovery 3.0 SDV6 XS
Compact executive
Shortlist
Best buy less than £25,000: BMW 3 Series 316d ES
Best buy £25,000 - £30,000: BMW 3 Series 320d ES
Best buy more than £30,000: BMW 3 Series 330d SE
Winner
BMW 3 Series 320d ES
Executive car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £30,000: BMW 5 Series 520d SE
Best buy £30,000 - £40,000: Jaguar XF 3.0D V6 Luxury
Best buy more than £40,000: Audi A7 Sportback 3.0 TDI 245 quattro SE
Winner
Jaguar XF 3.0D V6 Luxury
Luxury car
Shortlist
Best buy less than £65,000: Mercedes-Benz S-Class S350 CDI BluTEC
Best buy £65,000 - £100,000: Range Rover 4.4 TDV8 Vogue
Best buy more than £100,000: Rolls-Royce Phantom
Winner
Mercedes-Benz S-Class S350 CDI BluTEC
Ultra-low carbon car
Winner
Nissan Leaf
Safety Award
Winner
Volvo for Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake
Security Award
Winner
Volkswagen
What Car? Car of the Year 2011
Winner
Audi A1 1.4 TFSI Sport
Friday, June 25, 2010
Jaguar marks 75 years
To celebrate the marque’s 75th anniversary, Jaguar has announced a very special version of its XKR. Perhaps unsurprisingly named XKR 75 and limited to just (no prizes for guessing this) 75 examples, it will debut at next month’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The changes compared to a standard XKR are wide-ranging. Power from the 5.0 litre supercharged V8 is up from 503 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS) to 523 bhp (390 kW / 530 PS), which reduces the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration time from 4.6 to 4.4 seconds. Top speed is limited to 174 mph (280 km/h), an increase of 19 mph (30 km/h).
To make the most of the extra performance, the chassis has also been upgraded. Stiffer springs, increased damper rates, new aluminium uprights front and rear for increased camber stiffness, re-tuned Adaptive Dynamics damper control software and a reduced ride height (by 15 mm front / 10 mm rear) are all intended to give a more driver-focussed feel. Jaguar is claiming that refinement and ride comfort have not been sacrificed completely, though.
Visually, the XKR 75 is distinguished by its aerodynamic body kit. Consisting of a front splitter, rear diffuser, larger rear spoiler and side sills extensions, it has been designed to increase high speed stability. To complete the look, dark grey 20" Vortex forged lightweight alloy wheels and Stratus Grey paintwork come as standard. Thankfully, however, the rather dodgy (and superfluous) go-faster stripes - or ‘graphics pack’ in Jaguar-speak - are optional. On the inside, there’s Charcoal leather with ivory stitching, a piano black finish to the facia and centre console and a black suedecloth headlining.
Exclusivity doesn’t come cheap though. At £85,500 on the road in the UK, the XKR 75 is exactly £10,000 more than a normal XKR. But that still looks like pretty good value when compared to competing models such as the £87,335 BMW M6 Coupé or the £104,560 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG.
The XKR 75 is available to order from July, with deliveries scheduled to start in October 2010.
The changes compared to a standard XKR are wide-ranging. Power from the 5.0 litre supercharged V8 is up from 503 bhp (375 kW / 510 PS) to 523 bhp (390 kW / 530 PS), which reduces the 0-62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration time from 4.6 to 4.4 seconds. Top speed is limited to 174 mph (280 km/h), an increase of 19 mph (30 km/h).
To make the most of the extra performance, the chassis has also been upgraded. Stiffer springs, increased damper rates, new aluminium uprights front and rear for increased camber stiffness, re-tuned Adaptive Dynamics damper control software and a reduced ride height (by 15 mm front / 10 mm rear) are all intended to give a more driver-focussed feel. Jaguar is claiming that refinement and ride comfort have not been sacrificed completely, though.
Visually, the XKR 75 is distinguished by its aerodynamic body kit. Consisting of a front splitter, rear diffuser, larger rear spoiler and side sills extensions, it has been designed to increase high speed stability. To complete the look, dark grey 20" Vortex forged lightweight alloy wheels and Stratus Grey paintwork come as standard. Thankfully, however, the rather dodgy (and superfluous) go-faster stripes - or ‘graphics pack’ in Jaguar-speak - are optional. On the inside, there’s Charcoal leather with ivory stitching, a piano black finish to the facia and centre console and a black suedecloth headlining.
Exclusivity doesn’t come cheap though. At £85,500 on the road in the UK, the XKR 75 is exactly £10,000 more than a normal XKR. But that still looks like pretty good value when compared to competing models such as the £87,335 BMW M6 Coupé or the £104,560 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG.
The XKR 75 is available to order from July, with deliveries scheduled to start in October 2010.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Shelby G.T.500CR
The appeal of a re-engineered classic car is not difficult to see - you get all the style, but upgraded modern components mean it’ll also stop properly, go around corners and start first time, every time.
It’s a concept that seems to have been particularly popular with Jaguars, with firms like KWE in the UK and Beacham in New Zealand modernising models of various vintages.
Classic Recreations of Yukon, Oklahoma are now doing something similar with the Ford Mustang. However, what makes their Shelby G.T.500CR special is that Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc. has granted them a licence to produce this continuation series.
Using a 1967 Ford Mustang as the start point, authentic Shelby performance parts are used throughout the conversion. Because of that, and the input and oversight given by Shelby technical personnel, each car will come with an official Shelby serial number and badges, and be included in the Shelby Worldwide Registry.
Three versions are on offer. The $119,000 Intro and $149,000 Performance both have a 427 cubic inch (7 litre) fuel injected engine producing 545 horsepower, connected to a Tremec manual transmission.
The range-topper is the $199,000 Venom, which has its power boosted to a jaw-dropping 780 horsepower courtesy of a Procharger F1-R intercooled supercharger.
And in case those figures just aren’t enough, the G.T.500CR also comes equipped with a nitrous oxide system that gives an extra 150 horsepower.
Fortunately, similar attention has also been paid to the chassis. Keeping the car on the road is an uprated suspension set-up, which features anti-roll bars front and rear, and there’s a powered rack and pinion steering system. Shelby / Baer disc brakes take care of stopping the G.T.500CR, and it rides on 17-inch Shelby alloy wheels with Goodyear high performance tyres.
The interior also gets a makeover, with the Carroll Shelby seats and Simpson five-point seatbelts being a great improvement on the originals.
So far, Classic Recreations has only unveiled the Performance version, but prototypes of the Intro and Venom are due soon.
It’s a concept that seems to have been particularly popular with Jaguars, with firms like KWE in the UK and Beacham in New Zealand modernising models of various vintages.
Classic Recreations of Yukon, Oklahoma are now doing something similar with the Ford Mustang. However, what makes their Shelby G.T.500CR special is that Carroll Shelby Licensing Inc. has granted them a licence to produce this continuation series.
Using a 1967 Ford Mustang as the start point, authentic Shelby performance parts are used throughout the conversion. Because of that, and the input and oversight given by Shelby technical personnel, each car will come with an official Shelby serial number and badges, and be included in the Shelby Worldwide Registry.
Three versions are on offer. The $119,000 Intro and $149,000 Performance both have a 427 cubic inch (7 litre) fuel injected engine producing 545 horsepower, connected to a Tremec manual transmission.
The range-topper is the $199,000 Venom, which has its power boosted to a jaw-dropping 780 horsepower courtesy of a Procharger F1-R intercooled supercharger.
And in case those figures just aren’t enough, the G.T.500CR also comes equipped with a nitrous oxide system that gives an extra 150 horsepower.
Fortunately, similar attention has also been paid to the chassis. Keeping the car on the road is an uprated suspension set-up, which features anti-roll bars front and rear, and there’s a powered rack and pinion steering system. Shelby / Baer disc brakes take care of stopping the G.T.500CR, and it rides on 17-inch Shelby alloy wheels with Goodyear high performance tyres.
The interior also gets a makeover, with the Carroll Shelby seats and Simpson five-point seatbelts being a great improvement on the originals.
So far, Classic Recreations has only unveiled the Performance version, but prototypes of the Intro and Venom are due soon.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Cadillac back in Europe
Cadillac is planning a return to Europe, after previous Dutch-based importer Kroymans got into financial difficulties following a collapse in demand for new and used cars.
GM Europe is doing it in-house this time around, though. A new organisation, Cadillac Europe, has just been set up to take care of importation, distribution and marketing. It will operate only in key markets, but those markets have yet to be revealed.
The range is to be presented at March’s Geneva International Motor Show. The striking CTS Sport Sedan, familiar from the Kroymans era, will be the core model.
It will be joined by the distinctive CTS Coupe. This brand new model is due to begin sales in North America this summer, with a European on-sale date scheduled for the autumn. Both Sedan and Coupe will be available in high performance CTS-V specification, powered by a 556 bhp 6.2 litre V8.
The third member of the CTS family is the Sport Wagon, which is expected to cross the Atlantic in time for the 2011 model year.
Environmentalists will be delighted that the Escalade Hybrid is to also make it to Geneva. Powered by an electric motor as well as its 6.0 litre petrol V8, Cadillac is claiming its Two-Mode Hybrid System reduces fuel consumption by 40%.
Sounds great, although the standard vehicle’s thirst for fuel should mean that even after such a big improvement economy will still be relatively terrible. It’s doubtful that G-Wiz owners will rush to trade-in.
So what are Cadillac’s chances of success in Europe? Stating the obvious, its big challenge is to persuade buyers out of the established competition. For instance, how readily are drivers going to swap their Jaguar XF, BMW 5 Series or Lexus GS for a CTS?
Some will certainly value the exclusivity that comes with a low volume brand. The driving experience of the CTS shouldn’t be too bad, helped by it having either rear or all-wheel drive, and equipment levels will doubtless continue to be attractively generous.
But three key issues could mean Cadillac struggles.
The first concern is how to avoid catastrophic depreciation. Unchecked, residual-based leasing costs will be totally uncompetitive, putting most business users off pronto. During its earlier forays, Cadillac’s resale values didn’t have the best reputation in the UK market. This is ably demonstrated by a UK franchised dealer currently trying to offload a CTS 2.8 V6 Sport Luxury with only 25 miles on its odometer. The asking price? Just under £20,000.
The second problem is the lack of a diesel CTS, a critical omission in the European market.
The third matter is more subjective: image. Cadillac has always been a bit of a mystery for Europeans, with perceptions of a typical owner usually focussed on two extremes - the octogenarian retiree bumbling about in Florida, and the pimp using his car for business purposes. Neither is particularly appealing.
All hurdles that mean it’s somewhat ironic that GM is now trying to establish a luxury brand in Europe, given it is still in the throes of disposing of Saab. At least it’ll have plenty of mistakes to learn from.
GM Europe is doing it in-house this time around, though. A new organisation, Cadillac Europe, has just been set up to take care of importation, distribution and marketing. It will operate only in key markets, but those markets have yet to be revealed.
The range is to be presented at March’s Geneva International Motor Show. The striking CTS Sport Sedan, familiar from the Kroymans era, will be the core model.
It will be joined by the distinctive CTS Coupe. This brand new model is due to begin sales in North America this summer, with a European on-sale date scheduled for the autumn. Both Sedan and Coupe will be available in high performance CTS-V specification, powered by a 556 bhp 6.2 litre V8.
The third member of the CTS family is the Sport Wagon, which is expected to cross the Atlantic in time for the 2011 model year.
Environmentalists will be delighted that the Escalade Hybrid is to also make it to Geneva. Powered by an electric motor as well as its 6.0 litre petrol V8, Cadillac is claiming its Two-Mode Hybrid System reduces fuel consumption by 40%.
Sounds great, although the standard vehicle’s thirst for fuel should mean that even after such a big improvement economy will still be relatively terrible. It’s doubtful that G-Wiz owners will rush to trade-in.
So what are Cadillac’s chances of success in Europe? Stating the obvious, its big challenge is to persuade buyers out of the established competition. For instance, how readily are drivers going to swap their Jaguar XF, BMW 5 Series or Lexus GS for a CTS?
Some will certainly value the exclusivity that comes with a low volume brand. The driving experience of the CTS shouldn’t be too bad, helped by it having either rear or all-wheel drive, and equipment levels will doubtless continue to be attractively generous.
But three key issues could mean Cadillac struggles.
The first concern is how to avoid catastrophic depreciation. Unchecked, residual-based leasing costs will be totally uncompetitive, putting most business users off pronto. During its earlier forays, Cadillac’s resale values didn’t have the best reputation in the UK market. This is ably demonstrated by a UK franchised dealer currently trying to offload a CTS 2.8 V6 Sport Luxury with only 25 miles on its odometer. The asking price? Just under £20,000.
The second problem is the lack of a diesel CTS, a critical omission in the European market.
The third matter is more subjective: image. Cadillac has always been a bit of a mystery for Europeans, with perceptions of a typical owner usually focussed on two extremes - the octogenarian retiree bumbling about in Florida, and the pimp using his car for business purposes. Neither is particularly appealing.
All hurdles that mean it’s somewhat ironic that GM is now trying to establish a luxury brand in Europe, given it is still in the throes of disposing of Saab. At least it’ll have plenty of mistakes to learn from.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Jaguar XKR gets Speed Pack
Buyers of the Jaguar XKR will now be able to specify a £3,500 Speed Pack that ditches the electronic speed limiter, raising the top speed from 155 mph (250 kph) to 174 mph (280 kph). Power from the 5.0 litre supercharged V8 is unchanged at 503 bhp, but a recalibrated engine and transmission make the increase possible.
OK, traffic and speed limits probably make that academic in most places, but the pack also includes some useful additions. The revised front splitter, larger rear spoiler and modified Active Differential Control are all designed to increase stability at high speed. Visual enhancements comprise body-coloured side sills and rear diffuser, together with chrome around the windows, on both grilles and on the side vents.
For an extra £500, the Black Pack can be specified. As the name implies, order this and the window surrounds, grilles and wheels are black instead, and the interior is charcoal leather. Thankfully, the slightly dodgy-looking side stripes are a dealer-fit accessory, so they can be left off.
In the UK the XKR Coupe costs £78,455 with the Speed Pack. That’s rather good value compared to £86,790 for the (155 mph limited) BMW M6, or £88,995 for the only slightly faster Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
OK, traffic and speed limits probably make that academic in most places, but the pack also includes some useful additions. The revised front splitter, larger rear spoiler and modified Active Differential Control are all designed to increase stability at high speed. Visual enhancements comprise body-coloured side sills and rear diffuser, together with chrome around the windows, on both grilles and on the side vents.
For an extra £500, the Black Pack can be specified. As the name implies, order this and the window surrounds, grilles and wheels are black instead, and the interior is charcoal leather. Thankfully, the slightly dodgy-looking side stripes are a dealer-fit accessory, so they can be left off.
In the UK the XKR Coupe costs £78,455 with the Speed Pack. That’s rather good value compared to £86,790 for the (155 mph limited) BMW M6, or £88,995 for the only slightly faster Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
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