Motorists who flee the...
Motorists who flee the scene after damaging street furniture are being tracked down and forced to pay up.
Auto and Law
1. Speeding
1. Speeding
A 2WD version of Nissan"s...
A 2WD version of Nissan"s X-Trail SUV is going on sale for drivers who don"t plan to go off-road. Due here in May, the newcomer will cost from í‚á£15,795 for the 2.0-litre petrol version, while the 2.2-dCi diesel is í‚á£17,395. All X-Trails now feature alloys as standard, but prices have increased by í‚á£300 across the range.
A 9-3 Sport model has...
A 9-3 Sport model has been fitted with two infra-red cameras which are able to monitor both head and eye movements.
A British firm is doing...
A British firm is doing brisk business with its range of Tuk-Tuks, the three-wheelers popular in the Far East. "I"ve delivered four in the UK, and have orders for another five," said Steve Webb, boss of Freewheeler Autos, Southampton. The motorised rickshaws are a favourite with restaurant delivery drivers.
A competition to find...
A competition to find Britain"s safest drivers has been set up. Motorway service station firm Moto has teamed up with the Institute of Advanced Motorists in the search for the nation"s "Road Stars" in different categories. Enter at www.moto-way.co.uk or pick up a form at any Moto service station.
A concrete wall is being...
A concrete wall is being built on the M1 - but it"s not as daft as it sounds. It"s to stop traffic crashing into bridge columns supporting the A52 at J25 in Derbyshire. A Highways Agency spokeswoman said: "Improved safety standards mean this junction is seen as a higher risk than when it was built."
A crackdown on uninsured...
A crackdown on uninsured motorists has been launched by the Department for Transport. The initiative links the DVLA"s vehicle register and the Motor Insurance Database, so police can discover which cars are on the road uninsured. Officers can seize the offenders" vehicles and, in some cases, have the models crushed.
A limited-edition version...
A limited-edition version of the Audi Allroad has gone on sale. The car has í‚á£4,500 of optional kit as standard, including tinted windows, aluminum trim, colour-coded bumpers, a CD changer and sat-nav. Only 500 examples will be sold in either 2.7 T or 2.5 TDI 180 guise, priced í‚á£33,815 and í‚á£30,070 respectively
All new Rover 75 and...
All new Rover 75 and MG ZT models now include a wiring kit for hands-free mobile phones. The firm claims the system will be compatible with 95 per cent of current handsets - and believes that makes it unique among car makers. Prices start at í‚á£229.99 including installation, and kits are available from dealers.
And then there were...
And then there were three! British sports car firm Noble is set to unveil its third model, the M15, which will sit alongside the M400 and M12 GTO-3R. Based on the M14 concept seen at 2004"s British Motor Show, the 455bhp, 3.0-litre mid-engined vehicle will start at around ÷£75,000 when it arrives at the end of the year.
And the picture in this...
And the picture in this week"s mag reveals conclusively that the BMW-owned baby"s trademark clamshell design has been dropped in favour of a more conventional panel, which leaves the headlights in place when it"s opened. The modification will reduce production costs and mean the car is easier to repair in the event of an accident.
A new hotline to report...
A new hotline to report dangerous roads in residential areas has been launched. Zak the Zebra"s line (0800 068 7780) is the brainchild of road safety charity Brake. It wants to take a list of dangerous routes to 10 Downing Street as part of Road Safety Week in November. The group is demanding more 20mph zones and better cycle lanes in busy areas.
Anyone thinking of buying...
Anyone thinking of buying a Smart Roadster Brabus might want to hold on to their money until next month, when a minor facelift is due. Along with the Roadster Coup탩, the car gets new colour-coded bodywork, a gearstick-mounted starter button and fresh cabin trim. The price will rise by í‚á£300 to í‚á£16,995.
A possible brake defect...
A possible brake defect has forced Kia to recall the current-generation Sportage SUV. Nearly 3,000 have been sold this year, but only 816 - those built in April and May - are affected. Owners should contact their dealers for a free 40-minute replacement of the faulty handbrake components. It"s the second Sportage recall in three months.
A range of promotions...
A range of promotions has been introduced across the Ford range. The offers, which are available until 31 March, include savings of up to í‚á£1,000 on a new Ka, plus special-edition Silver versions of the firm"s Mondeo and Galaxy. Meanwhile, the first 2,000 Fiesta ST and Zetec S buyers will get a free track day.
Are these the most stylish...
Are these the most stylish car stereo speakers ever? The Bang & Olufsen units retract into the dash when not in use, and are designed exclusively for Audi"s A8. The set-up will debut at September"s Frankfurt Motor Show, and appear at the end of the year. Meanwhile, Audi has revealed its RS4 quattro will start from í‚á£49,980.
A rival to the Ariel...
A rival to the Ariel Atom, the sporty two-seater is powered by a Cosworth-tuned turbocharged Audi engine developing 250bhp. That should provide it with a 0-60mph sprint time of less than four seconds.
A rubbish idea won a...
A rubbish idea won a Brit top prize in Honda"s worldwide employee competition. Every year, staff are asked to devise solutions to internal problems. This year, Natascia Leone (image) from Honda"s UK press office won with her idea for recycling waste. But the prize - an all-expenses-paid trip to Istanbul, Turkey - was anything but trash!
A scheme which would...
A scheme which would see vehicles ring the emergency services after a smash has hit a snag. Launched this year by the European Union, eCall was meant to be in place by 2009. But so far only Finland and Sweden have agreed to install the equipment needed in call centres. Germany will sign up to the plan soon, but no other country has expressed interest.
As well as displaying...
As well as displaying 24 production cars on its stand, Kia will unveil a new MPV concept at next week"s Frankfurt Motor Show. Called the Multi S, the newcomer will combine the practicality of a people carrier with compact SUV styling. It"s set to pave the way for a future production model, designed to take on the next-generation Daihatsu Terios.
As with the Hummer...
As with the Hummer, it"s a converted military vehicle - but that"s where the similarity ends. This is the 3.5-tonne Bad Boy Heavy Muscle Truck, and it"s just gone on sale in the US. Developed by Homeland Defense Vehicles, Texas, it costs í‚á£120,000 and can drive through 5ft of water and up a 60-degree slope.
Audi’s new A4...
Audi’s new A4 will cost from ?22,590 to ?30,290 when it arrives in spring. Engines range from a new 158bhp 1.8-litre TSI to a 261bhp 3.2-litre V6 petrol unit. There are three diesels: a 141bhp 2.0, 187bhp 2.7 and a 236bhp 3.0-litre. The restyled A4 is packed with technology including Audi Drive Select, which continually adapts the ride to road conditions.
Audi"s S line trim can...
Audi"s S line trim can now be specified on a wider range of Audi A3 Sportback models. The package, which includes alloy wheels, sports suspension and part-leather upholstery for a í‚á£1,000 premium, is available on all quattro or DSG-equipped cars. The "Open Sky" panoramic sunroof can also now be added as a í‚á£1,500 option on all models.
AUSTRALIA: A saucy new...
AUSTRALIA: A saucy new craze is taking off - driving in the nude, or "tooting". Police have received scores of complaints that naked motorists are a safety risk.
Based on the platform...
Based on the platform of the M-Class - driven on Page 24 - both standard and long-wheelbase production models will go on sale in 2005, badged as the R-Class. Merc will also showcase its new V6 diesel at Detroit. Replacing both five and six-cylinder oil-burners in the current C, E and S-Class, it will initially be available in 221bhp form.
Between June 1983 and...
Between June 1983 and June 1985, Lotus"s turnover from consultancy increased by 1,000 per cent to ÷£31million, and included work on the Sinclair C5 three-wheeler.
Billed as a replacement...
Billed as a replacement for the more conservative Almera, it"s been penned at Nissan"s European design HQ in Paddington. The model has unusual glass sections of the roof, which should guarantee an airy cabin - although buyers will have to wait until 2007 to find out. The Tone"s radical look coincides with a Tokyo exhibition marking 50 years of Nissan design.
BMW"s 1-Series can be...
BMW"s 1-Series can be test driven from home - well, virtually! Dealers have special promotional copies of the Sony Playstation2 game Gran Turismo 4 solely featuring the new car. Players get to drive a 120i or 120d through New York, down the Italian coastline and - for the first time in a computer game - round the Níƒá¼rburgring in Germany.
Boffins are developing...
Boffins are developing an automated roadworks vehicle that closes M-way lanes without putting workers at risk. The Dutch prototype, known as the Mars truck, lays rumble strips, places illuminated road closure signs and is operated by the driver in the cab. Designers are now working on a robotic arm that positions and retrieves traffic cones.
BP has just launched...
BP has just launched a new 102-octane fuel designed specifically to satisfy the needs of speed-lovers, track day goers and privateer motorsport teams.
British firm Land Rover...
British firm Land Rover is considering building the Freelander in China to try and cash in on the growing demand for 4x4s in the Far East. The firm is hoping to sell 1,000 off-roaders in the country this year, but managing director Matthew Taylor said: "I can see us climbing to 20,000 sales a year if we assemble Freelanders in China."
British firm MG Rover...
British firm MG Rover has raised in excess of í‚á£100million for developing new models by selling its parts business to Caterpillar Logistics (UK). The latter firm has been running the operation for the Longbridge maker since 2001 from its Leicestershire base. An MG Rover spokesman said owners seeking spares won"t notice any change.
British holidaymakers...
British holidaymakers whizzing through France this summer face a speed camera onslaught that bagged 4.2 million drivers last year, warns the AA Motoring Trust.
Bus and taxi drivers...
Bus and taxi drivers are usually blameless if they"re involved in an accident, psychologists claim. Interviews and simulator tests with thousands of motorists showed professionals driving public transport and emergency vehicles are least likely to have caused a crash. "They are often victims of another"s error," said Nottingham University scientists.
Buy a house, get a free...
Buy a house, get a free car. That"s the latest mortgage deal from the West Bromwich Building Society. It"s teamed up with local firm MG Rover to offer a Rover 25 to first-time buyers or anyone who re-mortgages with the society. The three-door 1.1 comes with three years" warranty and 12 months" roadside cover.
Called the Volpe, it"s...
Called the Volpe, it"s a zero-emissions electric vehicle, and comes in two forms. The basic model is capable of 40mph; a hot 4WD version hits 84mph.
Chauffeurs everywhere...
Chauffeurs everywhere will love the Maybach 57S. The "Special" new model debuts at the Geneva Motor Show next month, and comes with an AMG-tuned bi-turbo V12 producing 612bhp. It can top 190mph and will be available in black or silver. The "S" trim costs í‚á£34,500, taking the list price of a 57 to í‚á£287,380.
Chief police officers...
Chief police officers are calling on the Government to grant them powers to stop cars by remote control. The move is being led by Supt John Hammond of the Sussex force, who heads a police technology group examining the idea. The remote control devices are already available, and are similar to the telemetry used in Formula One.
Could it be the ultimate...
Could it be the ultimate high-performance 4x4? A 280bhp go-anywhere Unimog, developed by German tuner Brabus, was unveiled at the Dubai Motor Show. Based on the standard U500, it has a 6.4-litre engine which produces a huge 1,100Nm of torque - three times that of a Jaguar X-Type 2.2-litre diesel. It doesn"t come cheap, though, at around ÷£156,000.
Diesel car prices could...
Diesel car prices could rocket, ending years of booming sales, if new regulations to cut emissions by 80 per cent go ahead. The technology needed to abide by the European Commission"s proposed Euro V standards by mid- 2008 would mean extra costs to customers, says the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
Eleven per cent admitted...
Eleven per cent admitted to lying about where they keep their car - pretending it is kept overnight in a locked garage is the most common lie. And further questioning revealed nearly a quarter of motorists (24 per cent) have driven without a valid MoT and 18 per cent have been on the road with an expired tax disc.
Exhausted Audi’s...
Exhausted Audi’s options list? Try these wild tailpipes which mirror the famous four-ring badge.
Fancy getting a pound...
Fancy getting a pound off the London congestion charge every day? That"s what new firm www.fivepounds.co.uk
Forget gold rings...
Forget gold rings... how about gold springs? These are 24 carat coated! The bling springs cost ÷£1,500 for a set, and are made by German company H&R.
Fuel blockades could...
Fuel blockades could be back. The Scottish Road Haulage Association is urging members to protest at increasing pump prices. The Government is already under pressure to ease the burden on drivers by cancelling the tax increase announced in March"s Budget, which is due to be implemented on 1 September.
Get the frills of the...
Get the frills of the turbo-powered Subaru Forester XT without the thrills. The limited-edition S offers the sporty interior trim and three-spoke leather steering wheel of the hot model, but doesn"t have the power. Based on All Weather Pack versions of the 2.0-litre X, the S costs í‚á£19,295 - a price increase of í‚á£150. Only 300 will be made.
Grey imports are available...
Grey imports are available for ÷£36,000 plus delivery as early as March next year. But a Nissan spokesperson warned: “Service centres here won’t open until 2009, so if it went wrong, the car would have to go to Japan. And as there’s no UK warranty, owners would have to pay for repairs.”
Has your car got spaceship...
Has your car got spaceship mileage, or do you only cover a few miles every week? Auto Express is looking for three-year-old models with very high or low mileage. And if you do the average 12,000 miles a year, we want to hear from you, too. Email ross_pinnock @dennis.co.uk with your details if you can help.
Have you ever been annoyed...
Have you ever been annoyed by an item on the bill when your car was serviced? Perhaps it was a charge of í‚á£10 for filling the windscreen wiper fluid bottle? Or a costly "cleaning fee"? Did you complain, and what happened? E-mail your stories to richard_yarrow@dennis.co.uk or call him on 020 7907 6215.
Here"s another hot model...
Here"s another hot model from Bugatti – only this one is a toaster. Its flowing lines have been inspired by the brand’s early vintage cars, while the control dial mimics their instruments. The toaster comes in a choice of six finishes – stainless steel, cream, black, orange, red and fuchscia pink.
Here"s how to whip up...
Here"s how to whip up enthusiasm! The Suzuki Cappuccino Owners Register for Enthusiasts (SCORE) recently held its 10th rally at Bedford’s Priory Country Park Hotel.
Hi-tech equipment that...
Hi-tech equipment that takes control if the driver fails to react to an incident is to be tested on a Mercedes. It uses an on-board digital camera and radar detectors to work out if the brakes need to be automatically applied. The Norwegian scientists behind the system believe the safety-boosting device could be available in the next few years.
However, all this performance...
However, all this performance comes at a price: the Roadster S weighs in with a hefty í‚á£38,900 tag - that"s í‚á£7,905 more than BMW"s own 3.0-litre flagship. For those feeling extra flush, a Lux version is also available for a í‚á£3,950 premium. This model features sat-nav, xenon headlights, full leather interior, Bluetooth car phone and CD changer.
How much would you pay...
How much would you pay for a Fiat 500? A mystery buyer has spent Ò£200,000 on one at a London auction ò€“ although controversial artist Tracey Emin had drawn on the car.
Intelligent Parking...
Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA) is now stan÷dard on the flagship Toyota Prius T Spirit.
Is it a sports car or...
Is it a sports car or a motorcycle? This three-wheeler concept from Italian bike manufacturer Aprilia is being touted as a real ground-breaker. The company reckons the newcomer is the first vehicle of its type to feature dual-fuel technology. It says it"s capable of high speeds and will appeal to people from both car and bike backgrounds.
Islington Council and...
Islington Council and its partners NCP has announced that the council is to stop clamping illegally parked cars on the borough"s streets. "We are listening to residents," says council leader Steve Hitchins: "They say "clamping-it just doesn"t make sense" and we are responding by calling a halt to clamping."
Is this the cheapest...
Is this the cheapest new car ever? Indian manufacturer TATA is planning to build a fresh model for its domestic market, and is aiming to sell one million each year at only í‚á£2,000! A company official said there are no plans to bring the machine here, due to the UK"s stringent safety standards.
Is your car so dirty...
Is your car so dirty passengers would rather take the bus? If the vacuum cleaner is a rare sight for your car"s interior, we"d love to hear from you. We need help from readers with filthy cars for a feature, so if you fancy a free valet contact Ross Pinnock on 020 7907 6214 or email: ross_pinnock @dennis.co.uk
It doesn"t have a single...
It doesn"t have a single dealer yet, but Mercedes is launching its most luxurious car, the Maybach, in China. The German firm plans to show both short and long-wheelbase versions at the Beijing Motor Show in June. The car will eventually be sold in the city, with other showrooms opening in Shanghai and Guangzhou.
It simplifies the information...
It simplifies the information given to the driver by concealing anything not needed. The concept is the work of component firm Visteon and London"s world-renowned Royal College of Art. Designer Serge Porcher said: "With this system, controls are visible on the screen at the start - then I can hide them!"
It"s the ultimate fashion...
It"s the ultimate fashion statement from Mercedes. The firm is building a limited-edition CLK in collaboration with Italian design house Giorgio Armani. Only 100 "Collection Armani" models will be made, with matt-finish paint and brown leather trim. The car will be a convertible only, costing around í‚á£75,000.
It"s the winner of the...
It"s the winner of the Caravan Club"s Caravan of the Future competition.
Jaguar fans have launched...
Jaguar fans have launched a petition asking the firm to revive plans to build the F-Type.
Japanese firm Nissan...
Japanese firm Nissan could find itself under the spotlight of US courts over its headlamps. It is being sued by authorities in New Jersey, who allege it didn"t warn customers that the Maxima"s xenons were sought after by thieves. The lawsuit claims Nissan profited from repairs and owners having to buy anti-theft kits at dealers.
Japanese giant Honda...
Japanese giant Honda says its latest diesel car adds pulling power without affecting insurance premiums. The FR-V people carrier comes with the 140bhp 2.2-litre i-CTDi from the Accord - but due to the focus on safety, the SE model shares a Group 10E rating with its 2.0-litre petrol equivalent. Prices start from í‚á£17,300.
Japan is the country...
Japan is the country of cutting-edge technology, and the company most of the nation"s young science hot-shots really want to work for is... Toyota. The car maker has overtaken entertainment giant Sony, which had held the top place in the annual survey of university graduates for the past 15 years.
Luxury maker Rolls-Royce...
Luxury maker Rolls-Royce has confirmed the production car based on the 100EX convertible - driven by Auto Express in issue 813 - will cost around í‚á£214,000 when it goes on sale in 2007. The British firm is expected to build only a handful of examples each year. The four-seat machine will replace the Corniche.
Malaysian car maker...
Malaysian car maker Proton"s support for Norwich City FC won it Best Club Sponsorship in the Football League Awards last week. Proton and the Canaries have coached 1,000 children in Malaysia in a Football in the Community campaign: "Sponsorship is more than putting a badge on a shirt," said Norwich"s Andrew Cullen.
Mazda has had its "Zoom...
Mazda has had its "Zoom Zoom" slogan for a while, but not everyone"s a fan. Some top brass were secretly jumping for joy when told it was being ditched - until they discovered what it was being replaced with. Apparently, the new catchphrase is "Now That"s Zoom Zoom". Hardly a revolution, then...
Meanwhile, for diesel...
Meanwhile, for diesel fans, the entry-level Classic 1.9 TDI starts at í‚á£10,700 - a saving of í‚á£1,170 - while the range-topping Laurin & Klement 1.9 TDI PD130bhp estate is í‚á£1,650 cheaper at í‚á£15,990. The new Octavia arrives on 19 July, with prices starting from í‚á£10,750 for the 75bhp 1.4-litre petrol variant.
Mercedes-Benz World...
Mercedes-Benz World, the new multi-million-pound centre at the Brooklands circuit in Weybridge, Surrey, will open to the public in October, the firm has announced.
Michelin has joined...
Michelin has joined forces with motorway service chain Moto to offer drivers free tyre checks throughout the spring and summer. Michelin technicians will be on hand at Moto sites to hand out advice. A Michelin spokesman said: "We want motorists to be aware of the safety factor of tyre pressures in relation to handling and braking."
Millions of people who...
Millions of people who drive to work could have to pay to use their office or factory car park.
Mitsubishi is offering...
Mitsubishi is offering a string of money-off deals to mark the new year. Shogun 4x4s are being cut by í‚á£2,000, meaning the entry-level 2.5-litre TD Classic is now í‚á£16,999. The firm has also extend-ed its 50:50 finance and three-year free servicing offers until March.
More than 29 million...
More than 29 million Corollas make it the biggest-selling model name ever. It first went into UK production in Derbyshire in 1998.
More than a quarter...
More than a quarter of young motorists drink and drive, a new survey has revealed. Of 1,000 students aged 15-25 questioned for the study, six per cent also admitted getting behind the wheel without a licence - some didn"t have one as they were under 17.
Most people would rather...
Most people would rather councils erect speed-triggered "slow down" signs than Gatsos. But the Association of British Drivers has warned motorists may ignore them unless numbers are limited. A spokesman said: "The devices must only be placed where there"s a problem to which drivers need to be alerted."
Motorists in America...
Motorists in America can now refuel at home, thanks to a Honda that runs on compressed natural gas (CNG). Homes with an existing CNG supply can refill the Civic GX using the Phill fuelling system. Sadly, the lack of homes using the gas in the UK means there are no plans to offer the system here.
Music festival goers...
Music festival goers are the target for a road safety campaign about the dangers of driving while influenced by drugs. The THINK! initiative details how illegal substances affect motorists when behind the wheel. More than 1.5 million people will attend festivals this year. Visit www.drugdrive.com for information.
New measures to help...
New measures to help police tackle the problem of drug-driving have been introduced. Officers can force motorists suspected of driving under the influence to perform "impairment tests", such as walking in a straight line. Refusal to participate is now an offence, in the same way failure to submit an alcohol breath test is.
Nick Palmer, Labour...
Nick Palmer, Labour MP for Broxtowe, Notts, is adamant drivers should know what the limit is as they approach a camera, or else they may unwittingly pick up a fine and points. His draft Road Traffic Signs (Enforcement Cameras) Bill would make it mandatory for all the necessary information to be displayed on each sign.
Not all new cars lose...
Not all new cars lose value the moment you drive them. An imported Ford GT has changed hands on auction website eBay for í‚á£250,100 - more than double the expected UK list price. It"s not the most expensive example, though. The first GT sold to the public fetched í‚á£326,788 at a California auction in August. All 28 official UK models have been sold.
Off-roading fans are...
Off-roading fans are set to face í‚á£40,000 fines if they damage protected habitats or wildlife, thanks to a new law introduced in Scotland. The bill makes it a specific offence to use vehicles in sites of scientific interest, and raises the current penalty from í‚á£5,000. Supporters say 4x4s destroy flowers which take years to grow back.
Our spy shots in this...
Our spy shots in this week"s mag show engineers have already started development work on the Corsa SUV. The prototype - caught being towed to a secret testing location - is disguised by a Zafira body, but the chopped down rear and raised ride height give the game away. The final car will share its engineering with Chevy"s T2X.
Paul Quéveau...
Paul Quéveau, boss of retractable metal roof firm Heuliez, said: "In 2006, soft-tops and hard-tops split the worldwide convertible market 50-50. However, in the next five to 10 years, 20 per cent will be soft-tops and 80 per cent hard-tops." BMW is the latest maker to switch, opting for a metal roof over a fabric hood on its 3-Series cabrio.
Petrol engines will...
Petrol engines will be cleaner and more economical in the future, thanks to an improved direct-injection system. Created by German component maker Bosch, the fuelling set-up will be fitted to new cars from 2006. A spokesman for the firm said: "By 2008, one in every five petrol models will use diesel-style direct-injection to make them more fuel efficient."
Police in South Wales...
Police in South Wales have become the first to pull motorists over and give them a roadside eye test.
Powered by a 1.8-litre...
Powered by a 1.8-litre 189bhp engine mated to a six-speed gearbox, the í‚á£29,995 Lotus (below) can cover 0-60mph in 5.2 seconds and rocket on to a top speed of 148mph.
Prepare to be blown...
Prepare to be blown away by Saab"s new Airflow TiD range. Although cheaper than standard TiDs, all models are fitted with larger alloys, a boot spoiler and an upgraded entertainment system. Prices range from í‚á£19,995 for the 120bhp 9-3 Linear Sport Airflow up to í‚á£22,495 for the flagship 150bhp Vector Sport Airflow.
Prices for the new Honda...
Prices for the new Honda Civic were revealed at the Frankfurt show. The entry-level 1.4S will be í‚á£12,685 - up from í‚á£11,200 on the outgoing model. But the firm predicts more buyers will opt for the higher SE trim, from í‚á£13,750. The flagship 2.2-litre EX diesel will be í‚á£18,100, with the hybrid coming in at í‚á£16,000.
Prices for the Proton...
Prices for the Proton Gen2 - exclusively driven in Issue 820 - have been released. The entry-level 1.6 GL will be í‚á£8,995, and comes with twin airbags, remote central locking and air-con. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-range GSX auto costs í‚á£11,395 and benefits from alloy wheels, foglamps and cruise control.
Prices start at ?14,995...
Prices start at ?14,995 for the 1.6-litre Mondeo Edge, which replaces the departing LX trim. Zetec prices start at ?16,695, while the luxury Ghia range opens at ?18,445. All cars get added kit including ESP stability control, driver"s knee airbag, Isofix child seat mountings and Easyfuel - which prevents drivers putting diesel in a petrol car, or vice versa.
Production of Kia"s...
Production of Kia"s cee"d family hatchback has started at a plant in Zilina, Slovakia, which cost one billion Euros.
Riders of BMW"s scooter...
Riders of BMW"s scooter, the C1, have been told they have to wear a helmet if they"re on British roads. Magistrates had ruled against an owner who argued it wasn"t necessary as the vehicle has a roof and cross-chest seatbelts. The High Court has now upheld the decision. Most other European countries don"t make C1 riders wear a helmet.
Rippleprint, the traffic...
Rippleprint, the traffic calming surface invented by boffins at the UK"s Transport Research Laboratory - and revealed by Auto Express in issue 790 - has become an export success. The first overseas order has been put down near a school in Warsaw, Poland, to slow drivers. The special ridges create noise inside cars, but not outside.
Saab confirmed that...
Saab confirmed that the Subaru Impreza-based 9-2x will not come to Europe. A spokesman said: "Our dealers want the car, but will have to wait for the next generation. The cost of equipping dealerships with the servicing tools would be too much for the current model, which only has a limited production life."
School-leavers will...
School-leavers will soon be able to drive 44-tonne lorries. A new EU directive is designed to help ease a skills shortage in the transport industry. Currently, truckers must be 21 before sitting their HGV test, but the plan is to cut it to 18. Transport experts claim that, by 21, people are establishing themselves in other careers.
Searching car-related...
Searching car-related topics on the Net will automatically generate related motoring content - news, road tests, videos, long-term reports and group tests - from the Auto Express, evo and Test Drive websites. This will display in the left-hand column of your browser window.
Second-hand sales are...
Second-hand sales are down compared to last year. But used dealers needn’t panic. Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show the first nine months of the year saw 1,998 fewer registrations than the same period in 2005. Yet business failures among small dealers are growing, as car supermarkets take an increasing share of sales.
Simply slot the device...
Simply slot the device into the cigar lighter, and the cells will be back to full strength within 90 minutes. The unit, which costs ÷£24.99, comes with four AA size, ultra-high-power capacity 2500mAh batteries, which can be recharged 500 times or more. For more information, click on www.uniross.com or telephone 0870 220 6988.
Six digital video cameras...
Six digital video cameras on each vehicle will record every street; three of them are visible in our picture. A highly accurate GPS system will pinpoint the position
SLOVAKIA: A couple were...
SLOVAKIA: A couple were killed when their car hit mating wild boar in a Senec forest and careered into a ditch.
Soon after the Z4 M...
Soon after the Z4 M Roadster goes on sale, it will be joined by a hot coup탩 version... or at least that"s the plan. Our spy spotted the priceless prototype, pictured in this week"s Auto Express, lapping the Níƒá¼rburgring on a trailer! The only explanation can be that the test car had broken down.
Speed humps have been...
Speed humps have been "bumped off" by thieves - less than a week after being installed. The black and yellow plastic strips were fixed to the tarmac in Workington, Cumbria, to stop boy racers using the residential street as a racetrack. "Someone must have had the hump to steal them, but they were put in as locals asked for them," said a spokesman.
Speed traps that snap...
Speed traps that snap a driver"s face are set to become more common on UK roads. One camera captures the rear number plate on film, while another a few metres ahead takes a second image to show who was driving. The set-up will end the traditional excuse where motorists avoid conviction by saying they don"t remember who was driving at the time of the offence.
Supercar firm Lamborghini...
Supercar firm Lamborghini is doubling the number of its UK dealers - to four! The move comes as deliveries of the new Gallardo Spyder convertible begin in Britain. The Raging Bull already has dealers in Manchester and London; the two new sites in Birmingham and Edinburgh will both be run by performance car specialist Sytner Group.
Superminis are getting...
Superminis are getting cheaper, according to pricing bible Glass"s Guide. Average values fell by 2.1 per cent in the last year, largely due to the emergence of budget firms such as Kia. Compact family cars, like the Ford Focus, have increased in price by around five per cent, while family models, such as the Vauxhall Vectra, have gone up by three per cent.
Swedish manufacturer...
Swedish manufacturer Saab has announced prices for its new 9-3 Sport Wagon, on sale in September. Entry-level 1.8-litre cars start from í‚á£17,995, with the flagship 250bhp 2.8-litre Aero at í‚á£27,795. This high-performance model now features a new V6 engine. Dealers are taking orders, but full spec details won"t be available until nearer the launch.
Tests found adaptive...
Tests found adaptive cruise control and active steering - which are meant to make driving easier - cause "underloading", where motorists lose concentration. Researcher Dr Mark Young of Brunel University, Middx, said drivers were far better at avoiding a crash if they had some level of manual control; too little and the capacity to respond was reduced.
That distinctive new...
That distinctive new car smell could be a thing of the past - at least, if you buy a Toyota. The firm has revealed that it is working to cut the level of chemicals which come from glues, paints, vinyls and plastics in the cabin. The fumes can trigger headaches and sickness in some people, and prolonged exposure to much larger doses has been linked to cancer.
The Brabus E V12 Biturbo...
The Brabus E V12 Biturbo is the fastest four-door in the world. It was clocked at an incredible 217mph at the Nardo test track in Italy. The super saloon is based on the Mercedes E-Class, and uses a tuned 6.3-litre engine with 640bhp and 1,026Nm of torque. This enables it to sprint from 0-60mph in only 4.5 seconds.
The compact MPV gets...
The compact MPV gets a CD multichanger, rear privacy glass, Bluetooth connectivity, 16-inch alloys and metallic paint. An accessory pack including front and rear parking sensors is also available. There"s a choice of 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol and 2.2 D-4D 140 diesel engines, and prices start at ÷£16,745.
The Corvette C6 is to...
The Corvette C6 is to go on sale in Britain in October, and will be the first of a new range of Chevrolets and Cadillacs destined for Europe, all of which will be sold through their own dealerships. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to start from
The cover for low-mileage...
The cover for low-mileage drivers relies on a GPS system to measure usage. Insurer Norwich Union fitted 100,000 black boxes last year, and believes 2007 will see a rise in popularity.
The crew from South...
The crew from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service was named World Champion at the New Zealand event, in which firefighters demonstrate their skills at cutting casualties from simulated traffic accidents, beating 30 other teams. Chief fire officer Brian Fraser praised the team, saying: "They have given theirown time and effort to reach this standard."
The Department for Transport...
The Department for Transport (DfT) spent a whopping ÷£1.3million last year on printing! More than ÷£1.2million of that amount went on material to promote new and current Government transport policies. Storing all the documents cost ÷£65,000, even though electronic versions were also kept. Officials say they hope to reduce the bills in 2006.
The designer of the...
The designer of the Freelander is returning to Land Rover. Gerry McGovern has been named director of advanced design. He moves from his position as chief of Ingeni, Ford"s London-based design studio. Blue oval design boss J Mays said: "Gerry is uniquely suited to the role. He has already shown he understands Land Rover"s DNA with the Freelander."
The feature was created...
The feature was created by Chrysler stylist Dave Spykerman. He simply decided to add a little circular well to the centre console of an interior he was designing, which could hold a drinks can upright.
The first-ever TV station...
The first-ever TV station dedicated to one car maker was launched this week. The Audi Channel will broadcast on Sky Digital 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Programmes will cover footage of sponsored events - such as Le Mans racing - celebrity interviews and documentaries on the maker"s history.
The Government"s Think!...
The Government"s Think! road safety campaign has become an official sponsor of the 2004 British Superbikes Championship. It will promote the slogan "Keep Racing for the Track", which will appear on circuit hoardings in a bid to reduce motorcycle deaths. Last year, 347 bikers were killed on UK roads.
The hi-tech SUV has...
The hi-tech SUV has been built to take part in the US Grand Challenge - a rally for remotely operated vehicles. It"s packed with prototype safety systems to avoid crashes. Data from roof-mounted radar and GPS navigation systems is processed by a bank of computers that controls the steering, throttle and brakes.
The importance of the...
The importance of the New York Motor Show as a premier car event is set to grow. Planning approval has been granted to develop the Manhattan venue - the Jacob Javits Center - from 845,000sq ft of floor space to more than 1million sq ft. "It will make the show the largest in North America by size," said a spokeswoman for the exhibition.
The Lancashire town...
The Lancashire town of Leyland, which gave its name to one of the greatest car makers of the 20th century, has created a heritage trail linking all its automotive landmarks. British Leylandò€™s famous North Works is now home to the Leyland market, while the South Works factory houses the British Commercial Vehicle Museum.
The law change would...
The law change would apply to red-light cameras, too. Motorists are delighted - but not everyone else is. The move has sparked a row between the state senate and council bosses in the city of Toledo. The latter want the former to leave the law alone - because they reckon speed cameras work well.
The Medinose has two...
The Medinose has two special probes that users put up their nose. They emit a special light to stop nasal membranes releasing histamine - the chemical which causes irritation and sneezing. Sufferers need to use it for five minutes three times a day. It"s available at www.anhealth.co.uk priced ÷£79.95.
The names of the first...
The names of the first 20 people to buy a Jaguar in China will be all over our TV screens later this month. But they will be travelling so fast, they won"t be readable. That"s because they are being printed on the side of the firm"s Formula One car when it takes part in the inaugural China Grand Prix in Shanghai on 26 September.
The open-top stunner...
The open-top stunner was unveiled last year at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but has only just arrived with dealers in England. Lucky prospective owners with a mortgage-sized lump of cash to burn with have to wing their way to one of the official Lambo dealers in London or Manchester.
The RAC has been bought...
The RAC has been bought by Norwich Union owner Aviva for í‚á£1.1billion. And the new owner has already revealed plans to cut 900 head office jobs and lose 800 administration staff at the automotive breakdown giant. While some services will be moved outside the UK, front-line staff involved in such areas as patrol call centres will remain in Britain.
There are thousands...
There are thousands of pubs across the UK, and finding a decent one with a great atmosphere and good food can be tricky.
There"s a new diesel...
There"s a new diesel engine in the Volkswagen Touran. The 1.9 TDI 90 is mated to a six-speed manual box and returns 47.1mpg. Prices start at í‚á£15,350. All Tourans are now available with an integrated multimedia pack, too. This includes a roof-mounted seven-inch TV screen, and costs from í‚á£1,500, depending on the model.
The screens have been...
The screens have been installed at fine collection centres in Aberdeen to protect workers against angry drivers forced to pay í‚á£90 penalties for minor offences. Aberdeen"s 36 traffic officers report around 40 incidents of verbal or physical abuse every month, and officials claim the screens have been fitted as a precautionary measure.
The stunning exhibit...
The stunning exhibit from Dutch artist Paul Veroude shows all 1,500 components that make up one of Jenson Button"s top-flight racers "exploded" to give an eye-catching look inside the workings of the track super-machine. The company plans to display it at the British expo in London"s Docklands in July.
The team behind the...
The team behind the Cobra is going off-road. Ford and Carroll Shelby are working on a concept based on Ford"s Expedition SUV that will debut in November.
The UK"s most controversial...
The UK"s most controversial speed camera supporter - North Wales police chief Richard Brunstrom - has been criticised in a court. The judge in Mold Crown Court, Flints, slammed Brunstrom for allowing traffic cops" statements to be generated to a pre-set computer format without officers seeing them.
The world"s best-selling...
The world"s best-selling soft-top has been a given a makeover for the new year. Mazda"s MX-5 now comes with fresh 16-inch alloys - but the biggest changes are inside. A new aluminum centre console, upgraded upholstery and a more effective windblocker are all fitted. Prices start from í‚á£15,000.
This is what was revealed...
This is what was revealed when Hurricane Charley tore down a barn in Kissimmee, Florida, last month - 17 rare Ferraris, an Avanti and an old Indy racer were stored there by their multi-millionaire owner. Read the amazing story behind the cars from US columnist Steven Cole Smith on Page 98 in this week"s mag.
Thousands of commuters...
Thousands of commuters face a year of roadwork misery, as widening of the M1 gets underway.
Three million car buyers...
Three million car buyers have loans totalling up to í‚á£26.7 billion. The average loan for a new car is around í‚á£11,200 - the equivalent cost of a new 5-door Ford Focus - whereas the average loan for a used car is around í‚á£7,100, which could finance a "98 3-door BMW 3-Series. Source: moneyexpert.com
To celebrate being supplier...
To celebrate being supplier to the British Olympic Association, and with the help of record-breaking triple jumper Jonathan Edwards, MG Rover also showed off a í‚á£10,795 limited-edition Streetwise. The car boasts front foglamps and six-spoke alloys. Only 500 will be made - all finished in sonic blue with Olympic ring decals.
Top of the earners at...
Top of the earners at the event - held at the Fiorano circuit in Maranello, Italy - was the last front-engined racer to win the Le Mans 24 Hours. The 330 TRI/LM Testa Rossa Spyder of 1962 went for ÷£4.7million.
Top Trumps are back...
Top Trumps are back - but this time the prize is better than simply getting all the other cards off your mates. Collect these special British Motor Show Top Trumps and you could win a new car worth up to í‚á£100,000. The promotion is being run with Shell Optimax fuel - collect all 24 cards to be in with a chance of winning.
Traffic congestion is...
Traffic congestion is costing the country up to í‚á£15billion a year - and company bosses don"t think it"s going to get better in the short term. A report by the British Chambers of Commerce said only two per cent of members thought that the Government"s transport proposals would prove effective.
Two new road safety...
Two new road safety websites have gone online. The Scottish Road Safety Campaign"s www.getinlane.com warns of the risks of driving the day after drinking. Its hangover calculator lets motorists work out when they"re safe to drive. Meanwhile, www.awakeltd.info is run by sleep research body Awake and highlights the dangers of driving tired.
US off-road giant Jeep...
US off-road giant Jeep received hate mail from fans when it took the wraps off the current-shape Cherokee 4x4 in 2001, design chief Trevor Creed has revealed.
Vauxhall has taken the...
Vauxhall has taken the wraps off the hatchback version of the new Vectra - but only in this slightly unusual shot of the whole family. Pictured second from the right, it features a new bumper and restyled tail-lights. On sale in October, it will be the top-seller, accounting for around 80 per cent of UK sales.
We"ve been hunting for...
We"ve been hunting for official pictures of VW"s Fox city car. Officially, it"s the Lupo replacement - and it"s just debuted at Germany"s Leipzig Motor Show - but at 3.82m long, it"s only 8cm shorter than the Polo. Two petrol engines - a 54bhp 1.2-litre and 73bhp 1.4 - and a 73bhp 1.4 TDI diesel will power the car.
We"ve been hunting for...
We"ve been hunting for official pictures of VW"s Fox city car. Officially, it"s the Lupo replacement - and it"s just debuted at Germany"s Leipzig Motor Show - but at 3.82m long, it"s only 8cm shorter than the Polo. Two petrol engines - a 54bhp 1.2-litre and 73bhp 1.4 - and a 73bhp 1.4 TDI diesel will power the car.
We"ve captured a preview...
We"ve captured a preview of the forthcoming Chevrolet Captiva SUV"s cabin. It hasn"t been seen officially before, and this snap (image) shows a classy look, with aluminium-effect trim, black leather and overlapping instrument dials. The Captiva debuts at July"s British Motor Show, and will be priced around ÷£20,000.
With the hayfever season...
With the hayfever season in full flow, MP Andrew Dismore is campaigning for clearer labelling on over-the-counter drugs to keep road users informed about the side-effects of their pills. More than 100 drugs are known to cause dizziness and delayed reactions. "Clearer labelling will alert people to the unexpected hazards," said Mr Dismore.
Worth a staggering í‚á£20,000...
Worth a staggering í‚á£20,000, the one-off model has a turbocharged engine producing 150bhp and a free-flowing exhaust, which should help it to sprint from 0-60mph in around seven seconds. The newcomer also features 18-inch alloy wheels and a garish bodykit, which includes a deep front splitter, redesigned headlamps and a whopping rear spoiler.
You"ll find wall-to-wall...
You"ll find wall-to-wall convertibles at British Car Auctions this month. It’s holding two cabriolet-only sales at its site in Blackbushe, Surrey, on 14 and 28 April. A variety of cars will be available, from MG TFs and Mazda MX-5s to Audi TTs. Go to www.british-car-auctions.co.uk for details.
You would be forgiven...
You would be forgiven for thinking that Lexus has something against diesel, as it only has one oil-burner in its line-up - but that"s not the case.