New SEAT EXEO & EXEO ST

NEW SEAT EXEO AND EXEO ST
More style, even more efficiency 

• New face further enhances the distinctive design
• New bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights
• TDI engines with improved efficiency across the board
• First-class quality and precision in finish and equipment
• Further improvements to emissions & fuel consumption in 2012 Exeo Ecomotive is targeted to emit less than 120g of CO2 thanks to addition of Start/Stop

From the autumn, Exeo’s distinctive design will be further enhanced and the powerful TDI engines become even more efficient. The new upgrade adds even more appeal to the sporty, comfortable Exeo and the spaciously dynamic Exeo ST. All diesel versions benefit from a decrease in CO2 emissions of around 7 grams per km – resulting in a CO2 figure of 129 grams per kilometre (Exeo ST, 132 g/km), making the Exeo one of the most efficient, low-emission vehicles in its class. Fuel consumption will also drop below the current combined figure of 5,2 l per 100 km (5,3 l on the ST).

And the introduction of these improvements to Exeo’s efficiency are just the first step, with additional improvements to Exeo’s efficiency scheduled to arrive in 2012 thanks to the fitment of SEAT’s Start/Stop engine technology.

The addition of this technology - which stops the engine when the car is stationary, such as when waiting at a red traffic light – will significantly reduce consumption and emissions, with a target figure of sub-120g for CO2. Exeo’s dynamic driving performance will not be compromised despite the reduction in consumption and emissions.

This low level of emissions will make Exeo one of the most efficient cars in its class and will further enhance its competitive appeal, particularly for fleets where emissions are a key purchasing factor.

The many strengths of the SEAT Exeo include its clear design language. With the redesigned front end, both the saloon and the estate are now even more expressive. The new, optional bi-xenon headlamps adopt the “arrow” theme that is so characteristic of SEAT design. The integrated daytime running lights in energy saving LED technology are sculpted into sharply defined, angular “wings”, giving the Exeo a precise and dynamic look.

New headlamps show attention to detail

The sophisticated design of this light unit is clear evidence of the detail with which the Exeo was designed and developed. Together with the new, honeycomb grille insert, the LED rear lights and the all-new 17 and 18-inch alloy wheel designs, the Exeo now has an even more athletic and dynamic appearance – by night and by day. The interior is further enhanced with new upholstery. The redesigned leather steering wheel now sports an even more premium look-and-feel – further evidence of the passion that SEAT dedicates to every single detail.

Reduced fuel consumption and emissions across all TDI models

From a technical perspective, the focus was on further efficiency improvements. Systematic refinements to the power units enabled the CO2 emissions of all TDI versions to be reduced by around 7 grams per kilometre. The 88 and 105 kW (120 and 143 hp) saloon models with manual transmission now both come in below the 130 grams per kilometre mark.

Exeo combines driving fun and quality with low costs

This latest generation makes the Exeo an even more attractive proposition for business class people who set just as much store by driving fun and a premium feel as they do by efficiency, utility and low costs. The Exeo unites distinctive and elegant design with state-of-the-art technology, outstanding quality and excellent value-for-money.

Exceptional precision and premium feel

Alongside sporty dynamics, the SEAT Exeo is distinguished primarily by its precision and premium feel. The exceptionally stiff bodyshell structure is the fundamental factor in the high-quality feel, the exceptional bodyroll characteristics and precise road manners. The excellent fit and finish both inside and out bear testament to the attention to detail and the high precision with which the Exeo is built in Martorell near Barcelona. Add to that the premium materials and surface finishes, plus the very latest comfort and information systems

Exeo ST with significantly enhanced utility
 
At a length of 4.66 metres, the Exeo is the prestigious athlete of the mid-size class. It offers space for five passengers and a generously proportioned luggage compartment. The Exeo ST estate version delivers significantly enhanced utility. With its luggage volume ranging from 442 to 1,354 litres, its wide rear opening and its high level of variability, the Exeo ST is the perfect partner for all the challenges posed by an active, sporty lifestyle or a successful business day.

State-of-the-art technology for dynamics and safety

The application of state-of-the-art technologies underpins the hallmark sporty SEAT driving experience. The engine line-up ranges from 88 to 155 kW (120 to 210 hp). The latest TDI power units with common-rail direct injection ensure excellent pulling power, smooth running characteristics and outstanding efficiency. For particularly comfort-oriented drivers, the multitronic transmission with steering-wheel shift paddles presents an alternative to the manual gearbox. This efficient automatic is available as an option for the 2.0 TSI with 147 kW (200 hp) and for the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp).

The SEAT Exeo is also a very safe vehicle in its class. Alongside the crash-optimized bodyshell structure, its standard equipment list also boasts seven airbags – including driver knee airbag – ESP system with ABS and electronic brake force distribution and automatic tyre pressure monitoring system. The list of hi-tech options is extensive and includes a DVD navigation system, bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic cornering light and a Bose sound system.

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Upgrades For 2012 Range Rover

Style Changes And Feature Upgrades For 2012 Range Rover

• Introducing two new option packs - Vogue Silver and Vogue Black
• New 20" V Spoke Alloy Wheels
• Gloss Black head and tail lamp back plates
• Narvik Black front grille surround
• Body coloured side vent surrounds and door handles
• ZF 8HP70 8-speed automatic transmission continues to partner 4.4 LR-TDV8
• Powerful 4.4 LR-TDV8 engine, 313PS, 700Nm torque, EU5
• LR-V8 Supercharged engine, 510PS, 625Nm torque, EU5
• LR-V8 naturally aspirated, 375PS, 510Nm torque, EU5

The 2012 Range Rover consolidates its position as the world's most luxurious SUV with a host of style changes and feature upgrades, including new option packs for the Vogue and Autobiography models.

"The Range Rover always has been and remains the definitive, luxury SUV and one whose off-road performance matches its comfort levels and performance. New equipment levels, revised styling and generously specified option packs make it the one to beat in 2012," says John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

The Range Rover exterior has been enhanced for 2012 with detail styling changes. Headlamp and tail lamp back plates are now finished in gloss black, while the front grille surround is finished in Narvik Black. Door handles and side vents match the body colour to create a modern, integrated look and new 20" V spoke alloy wheels finished in mid silver sporting a Range Rover branded centre cap, round off the changes to the exterior.

The Grand Black wood veneers on the 2012 Range Rover now have a crisp inlay which reads 'Range Rover'. Autobiography veneers are available in a choice of Burr Maple Prussian Blue, Anthracite Lined Oak or Ash Burl.

The Range Rover Vogue model offers a highly distinctive new look with unique tailgate badging, reflecting the customer's choice of either the Vogue Silver Pack or Vogue Black Pack. Both derivatives include the widely acclaimed Logic 7, 1200W Harman Kardon High Dynamics Audio System, heated and cooled seats for each passenger, and an 8-inch Dual View infotainment screen - allowing the driver to view the navigation display whilst the passenger can relax watching a video.

Additionally, the Vogue Silver Pack offers a Supercharged Design Pack comprising of a bright noble finish to the front grille and side vents.

Customers opting for the Vogue Black Pack will sport the Exterior Design Pack. This includes revised front bumper with fog lamp surrounds, front grille and side vents in Titan finish, revised side sills, rear bumper and stainless steel exhaust finishers.

The Range Rover Autobiography now comes with three new option packs - Prestige, Dynamic and Technology - which can be ordered individually or in combination to offer customers the ultimate in Range Rover luxury.

The Prestige Pack includes extended Autobiography colourways, Grand Black veneers and reclining rear seats; the Dynamic Pack includes the exterior Design Pack with the addition of 20" Shadow Chrome alloy wheels; whilst the Technology Pack comprises Vision Assist, 4-zone air conditioning, the Harmon Kardon Logic 7 1200W audio system and rear seat entertainment.

The Range Rover engine line-up remains unchanged for 2012.

The powerful 4.4 LR-TDV8 - specifically designed for the Range Rover - develops 313PS at 4,000rpm and 700Nm torque at between 1,500rpm and 3,000rpm. With combined fuel consumption of 30.1mpg, this made it one of the most powerful and economical diesels in the world at its introduction in 2011. Combined with the super-efficient ZF 8HP70 8-speed automatic transmission it returns CO2 emissions of just 253g/km.

The Supercharged LR-V8 remains one of the most uncompromisingly powerful and efficient petrol engines in its class, producing 510PS at between 6,000rpm and 6,500rpm with torque of 625Nm from 2500rpm-5500rpm. This immense performance, allows the Supercharged Range Rover to accelerate from 0-60mph in a mere 5.9 seconds.

The naturally aspirated LR-V8 is one of the most refined engines of its type, combining a silky smooth power delivery with unparalleled efficiency. Power output is 375PS at 6,500rpm with torque of 510Nm at 3,500rpm, reaching 60mph from rest in just 7.2 seconds.

All Range Rover engines conform to EU5 emissions regulations.

Barretts Land Rover

Barretts of Ashford – Tel: 0845 164 9784
Barretts of Canterbury – Tel: 0845 164 9783

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5 Star CITROËN DS5

CITROËN DS5 EARNS FIVE EURONCAP STARS

The CITROËN DS5 has earned a five-star score in the EuroNCAP protocol, with a 97% rating on assistance systems. The third model in the DS line boasts dynamic and reassuring road manners and a reinforced architecture, together with a range of high-performance equipment benefitting from all the brand’s expertise.

Safety comes in the form of tried and tested driving aid technologies such as electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist, intelligent traction control, a speed limiter/cruise control system and static cornering lighting. The strong EuroNCAP results were obtained through “Créative Technologie” equipment available exclusively on the CITROËN DS5 including: - a new-generation Lane Departure Warning System that “reads” the road using a camera built in to the upper part of the windscreen and alerts drivers when they drift from trajectory.

Barretts Kent

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Best Large SUV

Discovery 4 scoops Best Large SUV award at Auto Express Awards

The new Range Rover Evoque has been declared Car of the Year in theAuto ExpressNew Car Awards. The Evoque was also named Best Compact SUV byBritain's biggest-selling motoring magazine, with the Land Rover Discovery 4 scooping the award for Best Large SUV for the second successive year.

Citing the Evoque's 'mould breaking' looks and driving dynamics as key factors in its success, the magazine also praised its keen pricing: "The Evoque puts the hugely desirable Range Rover brand within the reach of compact executive car buyers for the very first time," saidAuto ExpressActing Editor Graham Hope. "The fact it looks and drives the way it does serves only to underline its premium appeal.

"The winner of theAuto ExpressCar of the Year prize really needs to break the mould - and the Range Rover Evoque does exactly that. You have only to look at its concept car styling to see why the British firm already has a bulging order book for the new baby of its range. Its appeal goes far beyond its distinctive styling."

Land Rover UK Managing Director Colin Green welcomed the recognition: "The first production Evoque was driven off the line at Land Rover's Halewood manufacturing plant inLiverpoolonly last month. To receive an accolade such as this so soon, and from such a respected journal asAuto Express, is a huge boost for the talented and dedicated professionals who have worked so hard and so long to bring the Evoque to market."

Mr. Green is delighted also by the success of the Land Rover Discovery 4: "The Discovery trophy cabinet is already huge, and this second successiveAuto ExpressAward for the latest incarnation of the model underlines its superiority in a highly competitive market segment, and adds to the pride we feel today."

Auto Express says of the award-winning Discovery 4: "The versatile Land Rover has figured on the winners' list at our annual awards for seven successive years, and it's easy to see why. The latest Discovery 4 marries high-class fixtures and fittings with huge dimensions and unrivalled off-road ability. Better still, a revised model with more power and lower emissions is due to hit the showrooms in October."

With a choice of three engines, two body styles, three design themes and a wide range of options and accessories, the new Range Rover Evoque offers customers significant choice across a range of price points. The entry level eD4 Pure 5-Door Range Rover Evoque starts at £27,955 and the top-of-the-range Si4 6 Speed automatic Dynamic coupé with LUX pack is available for £44,320. Offered in both 5-door and Coupé forms, the Evoque goes on-sale next month. More than 18,000 advance orders have been received by Land Rover.

Barretts Kent

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Cleanest Ever Defender

 

 
New Diesel Engine Powers The Cleanest Ever Defender For 2012

• New, 2.2-litre diesel engine with DPF meets EU5
• New "S" and "SE" option packs
• Five new individual option packs
• New gloss black Saw Tooth alloy wheel option
• New plain black pickup hood option

A new EU5 2.2-litre diesel engine replaces the EU4 2.4-litre diesel for 2011, bringing new levels of performance and refinement to the Defender for 2012. The smaller capacity engine delivers the same power, torque and economy as its outgoing sister but makes this the cleanest Land Rover Defender yet produced. In EU5 markets, the new engine comes with a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to ensure the lowest possible levels of regulated emissions.

Following a major upgrade in 2007 which included a new facia and six-speed manual transmission, the Defender's specification has been further improved for 2012. In addition to the existing 'S' and 'SE' trim levels, there are five new option packs, new alloy wheels, ventilated discs on all variants and a number of detail improvements to the interior. Three speed-limiting options will also be offered to fleet users wanting to gain more effective control of fuel costs.

The Defender can trace its roots back to 1948 and during that period Land Rovers have earned a reputation as the most rugged and versatile off-road vehicles in the world. Since 2002, the Defender has consistently sold an average of 25,000 units a year worldwide. Retail and utility customers, armed forces and NGOs in over 100 countries believe that the Defender's off-road ability, durability and towing capability are still head and shoulders above the competition. Such a unique combination of attributes explains why this legendary vehicle commands such exceptionally high standards of customer loyalty.

"The substantial improvements to the Defender in 2007 transformed its on-road refinement and comfort whilst extending its legendary capability off-road for which Defender is synonymous. With the introduction of the new 2.2-litre diesel engine and five option packs, the Defender for 2012 now offers greater customer choice than ever before," said John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director.

Smaller, cleaner diesel engine for 2012

The new EU5 2.2-litre diesel engine replaces the EU4 2.4-litre diesel while matching it for power, torque and fuel consumption. A new, full acoustic engine cover replaces the previous splash cover, reducing radiated engine noise and improving driving refinement. Meeting EU5 regulations, the engine delivers lower levels of the regulated emissions,NOx,COand HC thanks to an improved combustion system and sophisticated engine management system. In EU5 markets, particulate matter has been reduced to EU5 levels with a diesel particulate filter (DPF).

Despite the smaller capacity and reduced emissions, the new engine produces the same power, 122PS@3,500rpm and torque, 360Nm@2,000rpm, as the outgoing 2.4-litre engine. Performance remains similar too, with a 0-60mph time of 14.7 seconds as before, though the top speed has been raised to 90mph compared to 82mph for the previous version. CO2 emissions on the combined cycle are consistent at 266g/km for the 90 and 295g/km for the 110 and 130.

The GFT MT 82 six-speed gearbox has been retained for 2012 with its excellent ratio spread, high top gear for cruising and enhanced low-speed crawl capability. The lower first gear offers low crawl speed making towing on-road and off-road much easier. The low-down engine torque also helps in-gear acceleration and the tall sixth gear ensures excellent real-world cruising, refinement and fuel economy. Ground gears in both the gearbox and transfer box help contribute to the refinement of the transmission.

Interiors move up a notch

In addition to the 'S' and 'SE' trim levels, five new option packs have been introduced to the Defender for 2012 to offer more bespoke combinations including, for the first time, part leather seats and leather steering wheel across the model range. The option packs comprise of the following:

Comfort Pack- Air conditioning, CD Player with auxiliary input and convenience pack.

Exterior Pack- Brunel grille and headlamp surrounds, body coloured roof, wheel arches and side runners.

Interior Pack- Carpeted floors, high line cubby, part leather seats and leather steering wheel. Rear stowage net is included in Station Wagons and Hard Tops and the roof appointment pack is included in 90 Hard Tops.

Leather Pack-Part leather seats and leather steering wheel are available on all body styles for the first time.

Off-Road Pack- ABS, heavy duty rim and MTR tyre, tow ball and under-ride protection bar.

In response to customer feedback, a plain black Pick Up hood will now be available as an option whilst a plain beige hood will be introduced for the 110 Double Cab Pick Up. Both options are in addition to existing styles.

Further enhancements for 2012 include the addition of tinted glass on all models and the option of part leather seats. A new gloss black, Saw Tooth alloy wheel with MTR tyre is also being introduced as an option on Station Wagon and Hard Top body styles.

The Defender's facia is based on a single, large moulding supported on a robust steel rail to help eliminate squeaks and rattles. The instruments provide clear, concise information to the driver, and details like all-LED instrument illumination help ensure high standards of reliability. Versatile stowage shelves are conveniently located for both the driver and passenger and two console options are available: a practical open-tray design that keeps contents to hand and a large, lidded design that provides an impressive 14-litres of stowage.

A powerful heating and ventilation system is designed to cope with the most extreme climates and features aluminium plate and fin heat exchangers to deliver impressive performance.

Tall front seats are designed to improve maximum back support and head restraint ergonomics in the most demanding driving conditions and there are robust, supportive second row seats too. 110 Station Wagon and 130 Crew Cab models can comfortably accommodate three occupants on an asymmetrically-split second row seat. A spring-assisted fold mechanism helps when folding the seats for carrying large or awkward loads.

Defender 90 Station Wagon second row occupants benefit from a pair of individual, full-size, forward-facing rear seats. Providing excellent comfort levels, these seats are also available as a third row option on the 110 Station Wagon. Accessed either through the rear door or by folding the second row seats, they can be easily folded and stowed sideways in the loadspace.

Seat trims include durable all-vinyl and cloth specifications; a half-leather option is also available to add a touch of luxury to the cabin. Three-point safety belts are specified for all seating positions.

Defender's unique vehicle architecture has been retained for 2012. The chassis frame is available in three different wheelbases and in both standard and heavy-duty guise (for even greater load-bearing capabilities). A total of 14 separate body styles - from pick-ups and soft-tops to crew cabs and station wagons - are produced on the mainstream production line. Beyond this, Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations team offer a range of products from standard drop-side or box-body conversions to bespoke design and build adaptations into ambulances, mobile hydraulic platforms and even airport fire tenders - all of which are covered by Land Rover's extensive warranty.

Barretts Kent

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CR-Z MUGEN RR

MUGEN DEVELOPS HONDA CR-Z MUGEN RR DESIGN CONCEPT

MUGEN of Japan has built a CR-Z MUGEN RR design concept to demonstrate MUGEN’s capabilities in terms of function, style, performance and agility. The CR-Z MUGEN RR was produced by M-TEC in Japan for show purposes only and there are currently no plans for further production.

The CR-Z MUGEN RR has been created with many bespoke prototype parts, several of which are created in carbon fibre, including the bonnet, passenger doors and rear tailgate. Other features unique to the car include a full length carbon-fibre underbody, a twin central-exit exhaust, vented front bumpers and race-developed suspension.  Orange 4-piston monobloc brake calipers and forged 18-inch alloy wheels both complement the vibrant Valencia Orange Pearl exterior paint work.

Inside the car, the seats are clad in MUGEN-branded colour-coded leather/Alcantara. The addition of a race-developed information screen has the ability to record chassis and engine data as well as housing a Satellite navigation and audio system. This high tech kit will monitor the car over two laps to “learn” a circuit and then record lap data and vehicle tracking using GPS.

The design concept was unveiled for its world debut at the beginning of July in the Moving Motor Show area at Goodwood Festival of Speed and complements the high-performance CR-Z MUGEN, which was designed and built by MUGEN EURO based in the UK.  

Barretts Kent

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Honda's UK Plant

PRODUCTION OF NEW CIVIC AND NEXT GENERATION CR-V TO BE BUILT AT HONDA'S UK PLANT

Honda has confirmed that both the new Civic hatchback for Europe and the next generation CR-V will be built at Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) in Swindon, UK.

In a further boost to HUM, weekly production will return to normal levels in early September after a period of parts supply interruption following the earthquake and tsunami in Japan earlier this year.

Associates proud to build new Civic

The new Civic – designed exclusively for Europe and tested extensively on the region’s roads – will be the ninth generation of the popular hatchback. Honda’s first ever Civic went on sale back in 1972.

Production of the small family car will start later in the year at HUM, ahead of the sales launch in early 2012.

The introduction of the new model into production remained on plan during the recent parts supply interruption and the 3,000 Honda Associates continue to prepare for the arrival of the new Civic, as well as conduct additional training to further their development during this time.

“Our Associates are all really excited to be producing the next generation of Civic here at Swindon,” says Mark Trowbridge, Director of Quality and New Model at HUM “The next six months will be busy, as we ramp up to full production following the training and trial builds of the new car.

“The fact that we will be the only Honda plant in the world producing this hatchback version of the new Civic, makes us extremely proud of the highly skilled and dedicated team we have working here in Swindon,” Mark continued.

The company’s decision to also produce the next generation CR-V at HUM is a further endorsement of the high quality produced by Honda’s UK based Associates. The new CR-V will go on sale in Europe from Autumn 2012.

Production to return to normal

Honda can also confirm that weekly production at HUM will return to normal levels from early September, following a period of parts supply interruption and reduced production levels following the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Parts supply from Japan has continued to improve significantly and HUM is aiming to recover volume quickly in order to respond to customer requirements.

Barretts Kent

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Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel has arrived.

NOW ON SALE - JAGUAR XF 2.2 DIESEL
Book your test drive in the new 2012 Jaguar Cars
at Barretts of Canterbury and Ashford.

Barretts Kent

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