Long-term test review: SsangYong Rexton

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31 Mar, 2018 12:00pm Kim Adams

First report: new SsangYong Rexton SUV joins our fleet, promising a big step forward

Mileage: 193
Economy: 29.1mpg 

You could pretty much understand the technology and equipment on the previous-generation SsangYong Rexton in a couple of minutes. But when I collected this all-new model –which we’ll be running for the next six months – I was glad of a dealer handover from Essex SsangYong, in Witham.

As salesman Stuart Cornell passed me the keys and went through the car’s features, it became clear just how far the Rexton has moved on.

• Best 4x4s and SUVs on sale

The most obvious change inside is the 9.2-inch head unit display, which allows split-screen viewing and has DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity and TomTom sat-nav. And as my job often involves powering multiple gadgets at the same time, I was pleased to see twin 12V outlets alongside a USB port on the dash.

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We’ve yet to explore all the options, but the dash display can be switched between driving information, sat-nav instructions or your choice of tacho and speedo. We did play with the alternatives for the indicator sound; although none of them really appeals, at least the volume can be adjusted.

While exploring all the options, I  turned off the lane departure warning, because living in the country and driving a lot on rural roads means frequent unnecessary alerts otherwise.

On the move there’s traffic sign recognition, which has so far proven very accurate, spotting even small speed limit signs, plus temporary ones placed on the verge around roadworks.

The recent wintry weather enabled me to try the four-wheel drive, because the summer tyres were struggling to cope, in RWD mode, with the snow-covered hill out of the cul-de-sac where I live. All-wheel drive is selectable with a twist of a knob and easily got the car up the incline. Had we not been on the verge of spring, I would have been tempted to switch to winter or all-season tyres, even on a 4x4.

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The Rexton may be loaded with all manner of electronic wizardry, but that cold snap also led me to my favourite feature: the heated steering wheel. Even after the snow melted I kept it switched on to warm my cold fingers after being outside. The wheel, combined with the heated front and rear seats, plus dual- zone air-conditioning, helped to keep the harsh weather’s effects at bay.

With such an impressive line-up of standard kit on our ELX model, it’s no surprise that our options list was short. We added the metallic paint (although I’m not convinced by the Sabia Beige finish yet) and a tow bar to take my various racing cars around the country.

I’ll be finding out if the massively improved spec has taken the Rexton away from its hard-working roots on a continental towing trip soon.

*Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a 42-year-old living in Banbury, Oxon, with three penalty points.

4

First impressions of our new SsangYong Rexton are good. There are plenty of electronic driving options and most of them can be controlled from the steering wheel. While the gearbox has yet to prove itself, the engine makes for smooth and refined motorway cruising.

• Model: SsangYong Rexton 2.2 ELX Auto
• On fleet since: February 2018
• Price new: £34,495
• Engine: 2.2-litre 4cyl diesel, 178bhp
• CO2/tax: 218g/km/£140

• Options: Metallic paint (£600), tow bar and electrics (£805)
• Insurance*: Group: 29/Quote: £948
• Mileage : 193 miles
• Economy: 29.1mpg
• Any problems?: None so far

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Motorway petrol stations face enquiry over ‘exploitative’ prices

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Hugo Griffiths 2018-03-30 15:00

Transport Secretary says high petrol prices at motorway services could discourage drivers from filling up, posing possible safety risk

High prices at motorway petrol stations are facing an investigation after the Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling, said he was “concerned” they could be exploiting drivers. Grayling said expensive fuel could discourage motorists from filling up, and therefore pose a potential safety risk.

In a letter to the Andrea Coscelli, head of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), Grayling said: “I am writing to raise concerns and request that the CMA consider opening an investigation into the retail price at Motorway Service Areas (MSAs).”

• UK petrol and diesel prices: full guide

Grayling continued: “I am concerned that prices which are higher than other forecourts may exploit users in a situation where there is less choice and competition, and discourage motorists from stopping and re-fuelling when, for safety reasons, they should.”

The UK’s 112-strong motorway services network is dominated by three big firms: Moto, Welcome Break and Road Chef. Grayling added: “I would welcome a view from the CMA on whether the three private companies that currently operate the majority of MSAs are exercising market power to the detriment of motorists.”

The average price for a litre of unleaded at a motorway services is 137.7p, compared to a nationwide average of 120.1p. Grayling highlighted that in 2011, RAC figures showed the gap between motorway and non-motorway prices was just 7.5p. He said he was aware motorway services face higher operating costs than normal garages, but considered the current price differentials were still not “fully explained”.

• More smart motorway refuge areas to be built

Simon Williams, the RAC’s fuel spokesman, called Grayling’s letter: "great news for motorists", saying: "We have long called for something to be done about the cost of motorway fuel because there's nothing to justify the sky-high price. Drivers filling up at motorway services often put in the bare minimum but this can easily backfire. Running out of fuel on a motorway puts lives at risk."

A spokesperson for Roadchef told the BBC: "Roadchef does not operate the petrol station forecourts at any of our service areas and does not set the price of fuel. "A statement on Moto’s website, meanwhile, said: “We operate in a very different environment to most other retailers and once you see the costs of providing the facilities and services, the prices soon start to make sense.”

Now read our guide to the UK's new smart motorways...

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New limited edition Mazda 2 Sport Black revealed

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Jake Weaver 2018-03-30 08:30

The Mazda 2 range has been tweaked, bringing with it a new limited Sport Black edition

This is the Mazda 2 Sport Black. A new limited edition version of the supermini that also brings some minor tweaks to the rest of the Mazda 2 line-up.

Only 500 examples of the Black edition will be produced, all featuring black detailing on the wing mirrors, rear roof spoiler, skirt trims, grill and shark fin antenna as well as privacy glass and 16-inch alloy wheels.

• Best superminis on sale

It’s only available with Mazda’s 88bhp 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol engine.

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The rest of the Mazda 2 line-up now consists of five trim levels (SE+, SE-L+, SE-L Nav+, Sport Nav+ and GT Sport Nav+) while the range now kicks off from £13,292 and rises to £17,095.

The simplified range includes only one engine, Mazda’s 1.5 litre SKYACTIV-G, which is offered in three states of tune: 73, 88 and 113bhp. Entry-level SE+ models now some with 15-inch alloy wheels, heated power fold mirrors, 60:40 split rear seats and electric rear windows as standard, while the GT Sport Nav+ comes with dusk-sensing lights, rear parking sensors, rain sensing front wipers, climate control air conditioning and a rear-view camera.

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Only the GT Sport Nav+ is available with a six-speed manual gearbox when paired with the 113bhp engine while all other models have a five-speed manual gearbox. Any 88bhp variant can be paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control technology remains along with improvements to the suspension and steering, while revised front and rear damper settings improve ride quality. Smart City Brake Support and Lane Departure Warning System are standard on each model, as well as is tweaked electric steering.

Read our in-depth review of the Mazda 2 right here...

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New McLaren 570S Spider Track Pack launched

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Jake Weaver 2018-03-29 15:30

Lightweight pack sheds 33kg of weight from the McLaren 570S Spider and brings new wheels and exhaust system

Following the launch of the McLaren 570S Track Pack, the British firm has now made the Spider available with the same £17,160 optional extra.

Designed for customers who want to use their 570S Spider for occasional track use, the Track Pack sheds 33kg, gains a louder exhaust and special carbon fibre interior. However, the 570bhp 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine remains untouched.

• Best track day cars

The Track Pack sees changes to the exterior too with a dark palladium roof and lightweight 10-spoke forged alloy wheels added to mark it out. The new alloys alone help shed 15kg over the standard car.

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Inside, customers can choose between six different lightweight interiors, each one covered in Alcantara. Carbon fibre has also been added to door inserts, tunnel sides, extended gearshift paddles, steering wheel spokes, door and lower centre console.

Other changes include carbon fibre seats, saving 13kg over the standard seats, a carbon black alcantara steering wheel and the use of the McLaren Track Telemetry (MTT) system. The MTT system stores lap times and sector splits for track driving as well as a post drive analysis and graphical plots showing vehicle speed and times.

Click here to read our in-depth review of the McLaren 570S...

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New Jaguar E-Pace D150 manual 2018 review

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29 Mar, 2018 2:45pm Richard Ingram

We try out the entry-level Jaguar E-Pace D150 with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox

This is near enough the cheapest Jaguar E-Pace you can buy. While the majority of the firm’s SUVs have all-wheel drive and an automatic gearbox, this entry-level 2.0-litre D150 model is powered via the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.

We’re big fans of the Evoque-based E-Pace, and price aside, it’s one of our favourite small premium SUVs. But with relatively high ownership costs, does a bog-standard low-power diesel make more sense? We’ve driven it to find out.

• Best crossovers and small SUVs

The first thing you’ll notice is how eager the engine feels. It’s a punchy performer, and it never feels sluggish, so long as you don’t let the revs bog down. Apart from the long throw, the gearbox is pleasant and precise to use.

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Grip is good, despite losing out on the more expensive models’ all-wheel drive. Body roll is kept in check, too, cornering deftly in all but the tightest of bends. The steering is weighty and quick to respond, gifting you the ability to place it accurately on the road, and while a new Volvo XC40 is comfier, our car’s optional 19-inch wheels didn’t harm the ride too much.

Without adaptive dampers fitted, the JaguarDrive Control settings make little difference on manual models. Our advice would be to leave it in Comfort and work the gearbox for maximum performance.

The basic unbadged E-Pace starts from £28,500, but the S car as tested here throws in desirable kit such as sat-nav, leather seats and Park Assist. A reversing camera, parking sensors and a suite of safety kit also feature.

Yet if you want an automatic, you’ll need to opt for the pricier AWD model. This makes it harder to compare and contrast raw figures, although a quick glance suggests the manual should be much cheaper to run, with lower CO2 emissions and superior fuel economy.

Yes, the E-Pace Auto offers smooth changes and improved grip, but it’ll also add a substantial £3,300 to the list price, or £49 per month on a three-year finance deal.

4

Those after a cheaper route into Jaguar SUV ownership shouldn’t feel shortchanged by this entry-level E-Pace. The D150 engine is eager, and the gearbox precise, offering a decent blend of driver engagement and low running costs. It’s easy to see why many opt for the auto, especially if you spend a lot of time in town, but the manual is a fine drive, and well worth a look.

• Model: Jaguar E-Pace 2.0 D150 S
• Price: £32,600
• Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl diesel
• Power/torque: 148bhp/380Nm
• Transmission: Six-speed manual, front-wheel drive

• 0-60mph: 9.5 seconds
• Top speed: 124mph
• Economy/CO2: 60.1mpg/124g/km
• On sale: Now

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Genesis Essentia electric coupe concept revealed at New York

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James Brodie 2018-03-29 10:20

New all-electric grand tourer from Hyundai's luxury sub-brand previews future tech and performance intent

Hyundai luxury arm Genesis has revealed a new concept car at the New York Motor Show. Called the Essentia, it's an all-electric, high-performance grand tourer that Genesis says offers a glimpse of the brand’s future from a performance and technology point of view. It’s the first battery electric vehicle to be revealed under the Genesis nameplate, too.

• New York Motor Show 2018: all the latest news

A lightweight carbon-fibre monocoque underpins the Essentia, and while no drivetrain specifics have been revealed, a ‘multi-motor’ electric powertrain is found under the skin. The battery pack itself is housed low down in a central tunnel in the monocoque, rather than underneath the passengers. No power figures have been issued, but Genesis says 0-60mph is estimated at 3.0 seconds.

With the design overseen by former Audi, Bentley and Lamborghini design chief Luc Donckerwolke, the whole body is made from carbon fibre and is shaped into a traditional GT form factor with a long bonnet and swept back cabin. Very little has been carried over from the brand’s current two models, the G90 and G80, with an all-new grille shape and headlight signature. Genesis says it is instead an evolution of the brand’s current design values, with some slight inspiration from the GV80 SUV concept revealed at last year’s New York show.

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The cabin is typical concept car fare, with some retro-futuristic tweaks. The doors open upwards, butterfly style, while four seats are found inside. The seats themselves are upholstered in Cognac leather with chevron quilting, while a slim centre console wrapped in blue leather separates driver and front passenger. Ahead of the driver sits an eight-inch widescreen display.

Tech wise, the Essentia features both vehicle-to-infrastructure and vehicle-to-vehicle communication. Through this, it is capable of updating the driver with up-to-the-minute road conditions to avoid jams and busy routes. It uses machine learning to recommend routes based on who is behind the wheel, too.

Though Genesis has yet to issue a serious note of production intent, head designer Donckerwolke said: “A Gran Turismo typology highlights our ambition as a luxurious car brand for the connoisseurs and it is the perfect base to project our DNA in the future.”

Read more about the new cars at the 2018 New York Motor Show here.

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Jaguar ‘R’ models facing the axe

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James Batchelor 2018-03-29 08:15

JLR SVO design boss reveals future models set to wear ‘S’ and ‘SVR’ badges only, claiming there’s no place for ‘R’ cars

Jaguar is likely to kill of ‘R’ versions of future models to avoid confusion and to allow its SVR models “to shine”. 

Traditionally the British brand has used the letter ‘S’ to denote sporty models and ‘R’ for the most powerful derivatives. But since the re-launch of Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division in 2014 and super high-performance SVR cars joining model ranges, Jaguar believes there is now too much confusion for customers. 

• Jaguar eyes up more performance SUVs

“To be completely honest Jaguar is a fairly small brand and probably in reality there is not enough room in each model line to have an R and an SVR,” Wayne Burgess, Jaguar SVO design director, told Auto Express. “We have found F-Type R and F-Type SVR kind of compete against each other. The truth of the matter is that F-Type R is a great car and, in some respects, SVR has a challenging time because the R is such a good car in the first place.”

By deleting R models Burgess believes the higher performance SVR models will get the attention Jaguar thinks they deserve. There will be less confusion for customers and Jaguar will be able to impose a clearer pricing structure, too. The first signs Jaguar is leaning towards an ‘S’ and ‘SVR’ model strategy is the new F-Pace SVR. 

Revealed at the New York Motor Show, the 542bhp supercharged 5.0-litre V8 SUV is the most powerful F-Pace Jaguar currently builds. No ‘R’ model has been launched and instead the SVR is supported by an F-Pace S powered by either a supercharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol or a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine.    

“We would rather have a genuine SVR halo in the line-up and then jump an R model – that is better way of doing things,” added Burgess. “In a model line that doesn’t have an R, it can allow SVR to really shine. 

“You can see the dilemma we have and why F-Pace has gone the way it has. From a design and product point of view, it is great to have an SVR because you have that extra headroom and level of differentiation. Sidestepping an R model also sidesteps potential pricing issues.”

Take a look at the new Jaguar F-Pace SVR, which was revealed at the 2018 New York Motor Show...

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New Mercedes C 300 de hybrid to match C 63's torque figure

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John McIlroy 2018-03-29 08:00

Mercedes' C-Class diesel hybrid, which is likely to be badged C 300 de, to boast 700Nm of torque, but have emissions of less than 40g/km

The new Mercedes C-Class diesel hybrid will have torque figures to match the high-performance C 63 AMG models along with CO2 emissions of less than 40g/km when it reaches dealers at the end of this year, it has emerged.

Likely to be badged C 300 de, the new model - which flies in the face of industry trends away from mixing diesel engines with electrification - will blend Mercedes’ latest OM654 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine with an electric motor producing 121bhp and a 13.5kWh battery pack. Now the man in charge of C-Class has told Auto Express that the torque figure for the combined powertrain will match the 700Nm on offer in the C 63 S AMG super-saloon. 

• Best hybrid cars on sale

“We think this will be a really strong proposition,” Christian Fruh, C-Class engineering boss, told Auto Express at the New York Auto Show. “The torque figure is really strong, because you combine the 400Nm in the OM654 and 440Nm from the 90kW electric motor. The limiting factor becomes the transmission, because 840Nm would exceed the maximum capability of the gearbox, so the final figure is limited to 700Nm. This is will be such a rapid vehicle.”

It should also be an efficient one - and appealing under company car taxation rules. Because Fruh also admitted that the C 300 de will have CO2 emissions comfortably below those of the existing C-Class plug-in hybrid, the C 350 e. That car manages 48g/km of CO2 but Fruh said Mercedes expects the C 300 de to post a figure of around 38g/km. 

The C 300 de will have a pure-electric range of around 50km (31 miles) and Fruh said the strength of the electric motor has helped engineers to deliver smooth ‘coasting’ at cruising speeds, where the C-Class turns the diesel engine on and off depending on the throttle load. “It has a very smooth transition,” he said. “The electric motor is such a strong device that we’ve been able to do this.” 

There will also be a plug-in hybrid version of the revised C-Class based on four-cylinder petrol power. It’s expected to reach the market around the same time as the C 300 de, although Mercedes may choose to hold off its debut until autumn’s Paris Motor Show.

Do you think a diesel hybrid is a good idea? Let us know your thoughts below...

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Mercedes-AMG GT R Clubsport to challenge the Porsche 911 GT3

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John McIlroy 2018-03-29 01:00

Mercedes-AMG is targeting Porsche's 911 GT3 and GT3 RS with a new Clubsport derivative of the GT R supercar

A Mercedes-AMG GT R Clubsport is being developed to give customers a car with even sharper focus than the hardcore GT R, Auto Express has learned.

The Nordschleife-honed model has given Mercedes a viable rival for the Porsche 911 GT3. It has also stood up well against the Weissach brand’s more extreme GT3 RS - but now AMG chief Tobias Moers has revealed that his engineers are working on another version of their car, to ramp up its on-track performance even further. 

• Best track day cars to buy now

“Price-wise and positioning-wise, our GT R is between 911 GT3 and 911 GT3 RS,” Moers said.

“And so far we have been doing well in comparison tests conducted on race tracks. But we’re also working a little bit on a GT R... something. It’ll be a bit more race track-oriented. It’s lightened a little bit but it’s more of a track day version, for fun on circuits. We’re not talking about a competition car - not a GT3 or a GT4, but more a ‘Clubsport’. We’re having a good look at that.”

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Recent spy shots from the Nordschleife have shown a bewinged Merc-AMG GT, and it’s believed that this is the Clubsport undergoing testing ahead of a debut within the next 12 months. We’d expect the GT R’s 577bhp powerplant to get an upgrade, taking it closer to 600bhp. It should also use lightweight parts and a stripped-out cabin to shed a few kilos for improved response and handling. The modifications could also include the adoption of some components from the race cars - although the car is expected to be road-legal.

Despite Moers referring to the car as Clubsport, or Club Sport, there’s no official confirmation on what the model will be called. A Mercedes spokesman denied all knowledge of the vehicle when contacted for clarification.

The new version of the GT will not be the most extreme edition in the car’s lifespan. Moers also acknowledged that work has started on a GT Black Series that will be introduced towards the end of the current car’s production run. “The development journey for Black Series is under way,” he said. “It’ll take us a while, but we’re working on it now.”

Would you take a track-focused Mercedes AMG GT R over a Porsche 911 GT3? Let us know in the comments...

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New Skoda Vision X concept review

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28 Mar, 2018 6:45pm Richard Ingram

We sit alongside Skoda designers in latest Vision X concept car, to get a taste of upcoming small SUV

Skoda is on a roll. Its model range is expanding quickly, with the line-up now comprising eight models – an additional 10 plug-in variants are due before 2025, too. But next in line is a new baby SUV, based on the Vision X concept, due in 2019 to sit as a rival for the Citroen C3 Aircross.   

To give us a taste of what’s to come, we travelled to Skoda’s Czech HQ for a quick spin in the Geneva Motor Show concept car. While these opportunities offer little in the way of true driving impressions, it gives us chance to get up close and personal with the project and the team behind it. Catching up with designers Dalibor Pantucek and Dimitrios Darkoudis gives us a better understanding into the future styling direction for the brand, too. 

• Best crossovers and small SUVs

Skoda historically stick fairly closely to its initial design sketches as Interior designer Darkoudis told us the concept offers a strong hint of what’s to come in 2019: “[Vision X] is not as crazy as previous concepts; the main design is more realistic than Vision E or Vision S.” 

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This suggests the Vision X will transition from concept car to production SUV with only a select few design tweaks. Chief exterior designer Pantucek said the rounded wheelarches will remain, despite the bigger Karoq and Kodiaq using a squarer and more angular cladding.

The Vision X’s two-tier front lighting signature is similar to that found on its SUV siblings, and is likely to be carried over wholesale. The illuminated grille will be sacrificed on production cars, not least for safety and regulatory reasons.

The split taillight design should remain, however, offering an evolutionary pattern that sets it apart from other models in the Skoda range. Pantucek said: “Imagine you are a father and you have three kids. They have the same DNA, but they are totally different.”

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So while Skoda wants to avoid any Audi-style Russian Doll styling, both Darkoudis and Pantucek expressed their desire to stay true to Skoda’s ‘Simply Clever’ rationale, adding useful features throughout. 

“We wanted to merge emotion and functionality,” Pantucek told us. “Good design is somewhere in between. Every feature has a purpose.” 

The interior is filled with tech – from the large central touchscreen, to the fully digital dials. Skoda has already confirmed this set-up will appear on Octavia, Superb, Karoq and Kodiaq later this year, and the as yet un-named crossover should a similar system, too. The ambient lighting from the concept is likely to appear in the finished product as well, albeit simplified to ease production. 

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The four-seat cabin will be ditched in favour of a conventional rear bench and, the frameless doors will be replaced, too. The contrast stitching should carry over, however, with Pantucek insisting personalisation is important “on all [Skoda] cars”.

Our drive consisted of just a few laps of an empty warehouse, but it allowed us a chance to assess the car’s shape, size and practicality. The wide, squat stance gave it a planted but masculine look, though the dinky SEAT Arona-sized dimensions meant it never felt cumbersome or ungainly. 

Powered by a VW Group 1.5-litre TSI engine, our car ran on compressed natural gas (CNG). While the fuel is gaining traction in Europe, it’s unlikely to be offered as an option when the crossover arrives in the UK next year. A small electric motor gave our test model a short EV range, as well as offering power to the rear axle for part-time all-wheel drive.

The showroom-ready car will be based on Skoda’s MQB platform, allowing for petrol, diesel and electrified powertrains, as well as front or four-wheel drive. Manual and auto boxes will be available. Prices are expected to start from around £16,000.

A quick drive in the Skoda Vision X gives us great insight into the firm’s upcoming small SUV. While the engineers and designers will make small tweaks to the car before it reaches production, the basic shape should remain. Of course, being a Skoda, it’ll lose none of its ‘Simply Clever’ features, meaning the cool crossover will offer form and function in equal measure.

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New facelifted Hyundai Tucson revealed in New York

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Jake Weaver 2018-03-28 17:45

New Hyundai Tucson has been unveiled at the New York Motor Show with a fresh new look and advanced driver aids

Hyundai has revealed an updated version of the big-selling TucsonSUV at the 2018 New York Motor Show. It comes with a fresh new look and advanced driver aids, and will go on sale in the summer.

Up front you’ll find full-LED headlights, a re-designed bumper and skid plate, as well as Hyundai’s familiar cascading grille. The rear sees new tail-lights, as well as a new bumper and exhaust tip – giving the Tucson a fresher look.

• Best 4x4s and SUVs on sale

Inside there is a seven-inch screen, which can support Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity. A bigger eight-inch screen is also available, offering 3D maps and a seven-year subscription to LIVE services, which includes updated real time traffic information.

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Rear passengers get an extra USB port, while other features include a Krell sound system and wireless QI phone charging.

The new Tucson features Hyundai’s Surround View Monitor, which uses 360-degree cameras for help when parking. Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist and Driver Attention Warning also feature, which should help the Tucson keep its five-star Euro NCAP rating.

Hyundai’s Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan rival will be launched globally with a choice of five engines; three diesels and two petrols. The most powerful engine is the 2.0 CRDi, which produces 183bhp and comes with four-wheel drive as standard. It’ll also come with a choice of six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic gearboxes.

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The current 113bhp 1.7-litre diesel will be replaced with more fuel-efficient 1.6-litre diesel, with two power outputs; 113bhp or 131bhp. The more powerful engine will be the first available with Hyundai’s new seven-speed double-clutch gearbox, which gives better fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than the current six-speed transmission.

The petrol variants include a 113bhp 1.6 GDI and a 174bhp T-GDI. The latter comes with the option of front or four-wheel drive, and can be ordered with the new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The less powerful non-turbo petrol engine comes standard with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox.

The Hyundai Tucson is the brand’s best-selling model worldwide and will make its European debut in the coming weeks. Prices will be announced nearer the time, though it’s unlikely to cost much more than the outgoing car, which starts from £19,855. First deliveries are expected in the summer.

What does the updated Hyundai Tucson have to beat? These are the best 4x4s and SUVs on sale right now...

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New facelifted Hyundai Tucson revealed - pictures

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New Volkswagen Atlas Tanoak Concept hits New York

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Jake Weaver 2018-03-28 15:30

VW's Atlas Tanoak concept is a posh pick-up heavily based on the large Atlas SUV

Volkswagen has unveiled a second concept at this year’s New York Motor Show, called the Atlas Tanoak, previewing a potential pick-up version of the new Atlas SUV.

Named after a tree native to the Pacific Coast in the U.S. the concept measures in at 5,438mm long – that’s over 400mm longer than the seven-seat Atlas. It’s based on the same MBQ platform and powered by a 276bhp 3.6-litre V6, which drives through all four wheels and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. VW says 0-62mph takes 8.5 seconds. 

• All the latest from the 2018 New York Motor Show

The design of the Atlas Tanoak is separate from the Atlas SUV on which it’s based, with only slight similarities between the two cars. The Atlas Tanoak has a more rugged appearance to match its off-road capabilities with a raised bonnet and rugged underbody protection, which houses a centrally mounted winch and carabiner.

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The grille and VW badge are luminated by white light and offer an animated lighting display when the car is unlocked with light running over the grille and into the LED headlight surrounds, while the badge gradually gets brighter. New distinctive six-sided LED daytime running lights are a prominent feature at the front, too.

The rear features a low hinged tailgate, which when opened gives a cargo bed of 2,291mm. Like the front, the Atlas logo has been integrated into the tailgate, which features wraparound animated lighting. Red LED strips on the upper and lower parts of the tailgate move to create three dimensional taillights either side. The lower rear of the vehicle has been designed as both an underbody shield and a diffuser, while a towhook sits above the exhaust.

• New Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport concept revealed in NY

Inside, the Atlas Tanoak looks production ready. Sporty, contoured seats are used up front to offer support when off-roading while the passengers in the rear are treated to individual seats.

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The centre console, steering wheel and instruments have been heavily redesigned from the Atlas SUV. Most of the functions, including air conditioning, are now operated digitally via the touchscreen, which sits high on the dashboard for ease of use. Together with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, which sits in front of the driver, it forms a digitalized cockpit environment.

Ambient lighting built into the instrument panel and the roofline console bathe the cabin in light which can change colour from yellow for daytime and blue for night-time depending on whether the vehicle is in Off-Road or City mode.

The centre console features a newly designed shifter grip for the eight-speed automatic gearbox while the Active Control modes can be selected via a metallic slider and has been designed to be used even when the driver is wearing work gloves.

Officially Volkswagen has no plans for the Atlas Tanoak to make production, but they are keen the gauge the reaction of both buyers and the media.

Check out our list of the best pick-up trucks on sale right now...

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New Rolls-Royce Wraith Luminary revealed

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Jake Weaver 2018-03-28 13:10

The ultra exclusive Rolls-Royce Wraith Luminary will be limited to just 55 examples

Rolls-Royce has unveiled the Wraith Luminary Collection, a limited-edition version of the two-door coupe created by the British manufacturer’s Bespoke Collection. Only 55 examples will be produced.

The Luminary name is said to be a reflection on the Wraith’s owner, ‘a person who inspires or influences others,’ according to Rolls-Royce. Finished in a new exterior colour called Sunburst Grey, a unique copper hand painted coachline also stretches along the bodywork. The wheel centres feature pinstripes finished in Saddlery Tan, which gives reference to the interior colour.

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The interior is also trimmed in Saddlery Tan, although the rear seats are contrasted in a darker Anthracite leather to highlight the prominence of the driver’s position. Contrast piping and stitching help tie in the two-tone interior and both colours match the new two-tone steering wheel.

• Best luxury cars on sale

The cabin is finished in Tudor Oak Wood specially sourced from the forests of the Czech Republic because of its depth of colour. A unique feature in the Wraith Luminary is the new starlight headliner, which incorporates 1,340 fibre optic lights designed to replicate the look of the night sky and takes nearly 20 hours to create.

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In a first for a Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collection, a hand-woven stainless-steel fabric, surrounds the central transmission tunnel and doors so that it contrasts the Tudor Oak wood and Saddlery Tan leather. The fibre, which takes three days to produce, also refracts the light from the unique illuminated door panels.

Under the bonnet the Wraith’s 623bhp 6.6-litre V12 engine remains unchanged. Rolls-Royce hasn’t given a price indication but expect it to be well in excess of the standard Wraith’s £240,768 price tag.

What do you think of the Rolls-Royce Wraith Luminary Collection? Let us know below...

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Subscribe now to get the Driver Power 2018 results!

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2018-03-28 12:00

Subscribe to Auto Express before April 8 to get the Driver Power 2018 results!

Driver Power is the UK’s number one car customer satisfaction survey and in 2018 it’s bigger and better than ever.

Find out the best car manufacturer, car dealer, car insurance company or car breakdown cover provider and enjoy the benefit of the experience of your fellow motorists.

We have a great offer of 6 issues for just £1 with free delivery and on top of that a free G3 Pro gift set.

But hurry, you need to subscribe by April 8 2018 to be one of the first to see the final results!

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Your free Driver Power gift

This trio of new products from G3 Pro, the bodyshop professionals, will leave your vehicle exterior gleaming, and you beaming with pride.

The slick formula of G3 Pro Wash & Wax will soften and lift harsh contaminants from car bodywork and leave a high shine, protective layer.

The non staining gel formula of touchless G3 Pro Wheel Cleaner features colour change technology that lets you see it in action, safely dissolving brake dust.

And G3 Pro Tyre Shine Gel is a highly durable tyre conditioner that gives you the option of an ‘as new look’ or a ‘high shine’ finish.

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Jaguar eyes up more performance SUVs and electric cars

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James Batchelor 2018-03-28 11:10

Over the coming decade, British brand Jaguar looks to build more high-end sporty SUVs and high performance electric cars

Jaguar will focus on building high performance versions of its SUVs in the coming decade, in particular refining the idea of making powerful and sporty electric cars.

Revealed this week at the New York Motor Show, the Jaguar F-Pace SVR, powered by a 542bhp 5.0-litre supercharged V8, will allow Jaguar to take on high-end, performance SUVs like the Porsche Macan Turbo, and also cater for a growing market – a market that is solely interested in performance SUVs and not powerful sports saloons. 

• Best fast family cars

To appeal to this growing band of buyers, Jaguar will look to add more performance versions of its SUVs in the future – and even its bespoke, limited run Project cars could get an SUV model. 

“SUVs are the fastest growing type of car - everyone loves an SUV,” said Wayne Burgess, Jaguar SVO design director. “We’ve certainly enjoyed designing SUVs that have credible Jaguar styling language with SUV packages, so I can see no reason why we couldn’t do increasingly high performance halo cars with SUVs.

“Look at the success of Range Rover Sport SVR – we’ve taken the wrong car (in size and stature) and done a performance version. But because of the kind of car it is – an SUV – everyone wants it. It’s not the most efficient way but, as we’re seeing, people are tending to prefer SUVs to saloon cars.” 

One potential SUV model to get the SVR treatment could be the new I-Pace. Having beaten many rivals like Audi and Mercedes in the game of building an all-electric SUV, Jaguar is pondering how it can dominate the market for a performance EV SUV.

• Best 4x4s and SUVs on sale

“We are looking at how best to interpret the SVR concept on electric cars,” Hanno Kirner, Jaguar Land Rover’s executive director for corporate strategy, told Auto Express. “We haven’t decided yet with I-Pace but with every car we do it is possible. 

“Don’t forget it’s not just SVR our SVO team create but also SVA for the plushier cars and SVX for more off-road interpretations. We could do an electric car that’s an SVA and we really do think there is the space for a performance electric car or more than one.”

To allow Jaguar Land Rover to build halo models, it will look to its new flexible powertrain architecture that will allow the British brand to have economies of scale. 

“Two years ago we took the strategic decision that all our architecture for future cars will be power train flexible, so all our cars after 2019 will be launched on our one of our flexible architectures. These architectures will be full electric, hybridised or piston-engined with an MHEV (mild hybrid system). We need to give people a choice. Some people will want an all-electric car, others a hybrid to travel long distances while others will always want a V8.”

Take a closer look at the new 542bhp Jaguar F-Pace SVR right here...

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‘Government has to end the diesel confusion’

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Steve Fowler 2018-03-28 10:35

Editor-in-chief Steve Fowler looks at diesel, and thinks clarification is needed on its future

One conversation I had recently sums up the confusion over diesel right now: a local car dealer told me of one customer who didn’t want a diesel because she was worried she wouldn’t be able to drive it into the local town centre.

Of course, there are no imminent plans to ban diesels from any town centre in the UK. But who knows if and when that might change? And, frankly, who knows which way local and national legislators might go when it comes to future taxation, too?

• Best diesel cars on sale

Therein lies the problem and the understandable confusion and nervousness over buying or owning a diesel car. So it’s no surprise sales are suffering and, as some experts predicted, values are falling.

For the record, here’s our view: for the moment, diesel remains a sensible choice for larger vehicles and for bigger mileages. But more than ever, if you’re buying (or helping someone buy) you’ve got to think hard, and do your maths, to work out what’s best.

In many cases, diesel won’t be the best choice, as has always been the case. What hasn’t always been the case is the number of genuinely exciting and viable alternatives: ultra-efficient petrols, mild and plug-in hybrids, plus EVs with ever-increasing ranges.

• UK cities unlikely to issue blanket ban on diesel cars

So what for the future of diesel? In spite of rumours of a miracle cure for diesel’s emissions woes the long-term future in cars looks bleak.

In the short to medium term we need to hear from the Government on what it plans to do – for buyers and owners (although it has a track record of making announcements that confuse the issue more). We need clarity on the future of diesel and we need it now.

Do you think there is a future for diesel? Let us know below...

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VW Atlas Cross Sport concept ups the SUV count at New York 2018

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Jonathan Burn 2018-03-27 23:15

Another SUV from VW as the five-seater Atlas Cross Sport rolls out at the 2018 New York Motor Show

This is the VW Atlas Cross Sport concept. Revealed at this year’s New York Motor Show, it’s a shorter and more coupe-like variant of the mid-size SUV, and will make the transition into a showroom model early in 2019. It’ll first go on sale in the US market, and there's no word on whether it will come to the UK.

Unlike the standard Volkswagen Atlas, the Cross Sport concept only has seating for five. It’s based on the same MQB platform as its bigger brother and features the same wheelbase but measures 190mm shorter to create its sportier stance.

• New York Motor Show 2018: latest news

Other changes that mark out the Atlas Cross Sport include a two-bar illuminated front grille, 22-inch aluminium alloy wheels and more steeply raked roofline.

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Under the skin VW has also introduced a 355bhp plug-in hybrid powertrain comprising a 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine and two electric motors, powered by an 18kWh lithium-ion battery. VW claims it’s capable of 26 miles of all electric range and can cover 0-60mph in 5.4 seconds.

Alongside the new plug-in hybrid, VW will also launch the Cross Sport with a mild hybrid powertrain. Using the same V6 engine, a smaller 2.0kWh battery will be paired with the motor to allow the engine to switch off when cruising. VW says this powertrain will develop 310bhp and hit 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds.

Should VW bring the 5-seat Atlas to the UK? Let us know in the comments...

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New Audi RS 5 Sportback joins line-up

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2018-03-28 08:00

The new Audi RS 5 Sportback will arrive in the UK in the summer, using the same 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 found in the coupe

Another high-performance RS model is joining the Audi Sport fold in the form of the RS 5 Sportback. It goes on sale in the UK this summer.

• Best performance cars on sale

Like the RS 5 Coupe, a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6 producing 444bhp and 600Nm of torque is under the bonnet. And as with the coupe, the Sportback has a 0-62mph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 174mph if the 155mph limiter is removed.

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Trademark RS design changes give it a sportier edge than the S5 Sportback, with a black honeycomb grille and more aggressive front apron. A large diffuser and two oval exhaust tips are found at the back, plus a small lip spoiler on the bootlid. Under the wider wheelarches there are 19-inch wheels as standard, with 20-inch alloys on the options list.

Inside, quilted, RS-branded sports seats are added up front, and are joined by an RS-badged steering wheel.

Order books for the RS 5 Sportback open this summer. It’s likely to be priced the same as the coupe at £63,575 – because that’s currently the case with the S5 Coupe and Sportback.

Click here for our in-depth review of the Audi RS 5 Coupe...

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Hot new 542bhp Jaguar F-Pace SVR uncovered

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James Brodie 2018-03-28 00:01

New Jaguar F-Pace SVR has the Porsche Macan Turbo in its sights with supercharged 5.0-litre V8

Jaguar has revealed how it plans to go after the current crop of super-SUVs with the new F-Pace SVR.

Going on sale in the UK in May, the latest JLR Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) project has the same power as Jaguar’s legendary XJ220 supercar. There’s a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 under the bonnet that has 542bhp and 680Nm of torque, while the power is fed through a four-wheel-drive system with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

• Best 4x4s and SUVs on sale

The F-Pace SVR has nearly 100bhp more than a Porsche Macan Turbo Performance Pack; Jaguar claims it will cover the 0-62mph sprint in 4.3 seconds and hit 176mph, 0.1sec and 7mph faster than the Porsche. A mild effort to trim some weight comes in the form of new lightweight forged alloy wheels, while larger, lightweight brakes and a new Variable Valve Active exhaust system is fitted. This promises to deliver a boisterous V8 soundtrack.

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Jaguar has targeted a five per cent reduction in body roll with chassis and suspension tweaks. The front and rear springs are 30 per cent and 10 per cent stiffer respectively, with the alterations paired to a new anti-roll bar set-up and uprated dampers.

Elsewhere, the rear wheels are 25mm wider than the fronts for extra grip. In addition to these mechanical tweaks, the F-Pace now features the same Electronic Active Differential found on the F-Type, and the controls and electronic systems in charge of the car’s drivetrain and adaptive suspension have been calibrated for the SVR.

The electronic power steering set-up and the ‘Dynamic’ mode available via the drive selector menu have also been revised in a bid to emphasise the SVR’s character, with sharper steering and more aggressive gearshifts.

The car’s visual transformation isn’t dramatic, but is noticeable thanks to a new bodykit designed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind. The new front apron sports large air intakes, and side vents draw out air from the wheelarches. The arches have been extended to give the SVR a wider stance, and are joined by new side skirts intended to make the hot F-Pace appear low and sporty.

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The engine is hidden beneath a new bonnet with additional cooling intakes, and the back end is defined by two aggressive horizontal cuts at each rear corner, plus a new diffuser that’s home to four exhaust pipes.

Inside, the F-Pace SVR has new slimline sports seats in the front, with diamond quilting and embossed SVR logos on the headrests. The outer rear seats change too, mimicking the style of the front pair.

Final changes include a new gear selector, plus an SVR-branded steering wheel and Jaguar’s Touch Pro 10-inch infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The F-Pace SVR will land in Jaguar showrooms priced from £74,835.

Read our in-depth review on the standard Jaguar F-Pace right here...

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Updated Mercedes-AMG C 63 unveiled ahead of New York debut

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Richard Ingram 2018-03-27 20:00

Facelifted versions of the Mercedes-AMG C 63 have been revealed, mirroring changes made to the standard range earlier this year

Just days after Mercedes unveiled facelifted versions of the C-Class Coupe and Cabriolet, bosses have revealed tweaked C 63 models – boasting AMG’s latest nine-speed automatic gearbox. Power is unaffected, with standard and ’S’ variants available across the C-Class range. 

The C 63 saloon, Estate, Coupe and Cabriolet have all been confirmed, mirroring many of the changes made to the standard range earlier in the year. Both boast the same 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8, with either 469bhp (C 63) or 503bhp (C 63 S). Top speed for the saloon and Coupe with S power is limited to 180mph. The limiters on the Estate and Cabriolet are set at 174mph, while all standard C 63 cars are muzzled at 155mph. 

• Best performance cars on sale

AMG boss Tobias Moers said: “The AMG C-Class is our best-selling model series and therefore a key cornerstone of our company's success of recent years. The perfected driving dynamics and expressive design underscore the powerful, muscular character of the rear-wheel drive icon.” 

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Visual tweaks include a new AMG-specific radiator grille, special aero wheels and gloss chrome exhaust pipes. In addition, buyers can also spec an optional AMG Aerodynamics package for the C 63 Coupe, which adds a more aggressive front splitter, spoiler lip and border side skirts. Inside, you’ll find fully digital dials and an updated AMG steering wheel, while buyers are now offered open-pore wood trim, as well as extra carbon trinkets. 

Under the skin, AMG engineers have extensively re-tuned the suspension and dampers, as well as the electronically controlled limited-slip differential. The diff is now standard on all 63 models, while S versions also boast dynamic engine mounts. The new nine-speed dual clutch gearbox is lifted from the larger E 63, offering shorter shift times than before. 

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Six drive modes are available: Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Race and Individual, with the last of these allowing owners to tweak their car’s settings to suit their driving style. Within these modes there are four ‘agility functions’: Basic, Advanced, Pro and Master, which are automatically selected by the respective drive program.

Despite the various tweaks, performance is unaffected. That means the C 63 S saloon can accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.0 seconds, while the Estate is one-tenth slower. The Coupe is faster still (3.9 seconds), while the Cabriolet completes the same sprint in 4.1 seconds. Non-S versions are slightly slower across the board. 

Prices for the updated AMG C 63 will be announced later in the year, with UK deliveries expected in the summer.

Click here for all the latest on the facelifted Mercedes C-Class range...

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Jaguar teams up with Waymo to build driverless I-Pace SUVs

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James Batchelor 2018-03-27 15:15

20,000 autonomous Jaguar I-Paces to be built after British firm joins forces with Waymo to launch driverless ride hailing service

Up to 20,000 self-driving Jaguar I-Paces are set to hit the road in a new driverless transportation service.

Jaguar Land Rover is teaming up with Waymo (formerly the Google self-driving car project) to create driverless versions of the I-Pace all-electric SUV. Waymo will buy up to 20,000 cars and fit them with its production-ready self-driving technology. 

The Waymo I-Paces will initially be used for trials in the US later this year to gather reliability and safety data for both firms, and specifically to help Jaguar with the base I-Pace and future models. 

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So far Waymo is the only company with a fleet of self-driving cars and later this year the firm will launch the world’s first self-driving ride transportation service. Users will be able to ‘request’ a car via their smartphone to transport them to their destination.

After the US trials starting later this year, the Waymo I-Paces will be rolled out in the Waymo’s new ride hailing service with the firm hoping to serve one million driverless car journeys per day. The partnership will initially last eight years – four years supplying cars and four years offering maintenance and repairs.   

Jaguar Land Rover CEO, Prof. Dr. Ralf Speth, said: “With the Jaguar I-Pace we have a world-beating car that’s captured the imagination of customers around the world. Our passion for further advancing smart mobility needs expert long-term partners. In joining forces with Waymo we are pioneering to push the boundaries of technology. Together we will deliver the self-driving Waymo Jaguar I-Pace with the grace, space and eco-pace that customers expect.” 

John Krafcik, Waymo CEO, added: “While we've been focused at Waymo on building the world's most experienced driver, the team at Jaguar Land Rover has developed an all-new battery-electric platform that looks to set a new standard in safety, design and capability. We're sure Waymo riders will enjoy the safe, premium and delightful experience that the self-driving I-Pace will provide.” 

The Waymo I-Pace will appear on the Jaguar stand at this week’s New York Motor Show.

Click here for our ultimate guide to autonomous vehicles...

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