The route for the 2016 MSA Spring Classic will offer a fabulous weekend of non-competitive motoring over the weekend of 23-24 April, based at the luxurious Celtic Manor Resort hotel, Newport. Organised by International Motor Sports Limited (IMS), this year’s scenic tour for classic cars more than 20 years old will coincide with the annual celebration of classic motoring known as ‘Drive It … [Read more...]
European inquiry ordered by MEPs over emissions tests
The European Parliament is setting up a committee of inquiry into car emission tests. MEPs voted for the inquiry team comprising 45 members who will also investigate alleged failures by EU member states and the European Commission to enforce EU standards. It will present an interim report within 6 months, and a final report within 12 months, of starting its work. MEPs approved the … [Read more...]
MINI and Fiat announce newcomers
MINI is launching the all new Clubman ALL4 – the brand’s first all-wheel drive model in the C-segment. This launch marks the MINI brand’s further advance into the premium compact segment and represents the first ALL4 model to be built at MINI Plant Oxford. Previously only available in the Countryman, the powertrain has been specifically developed and modified for the Clubman and deliveries … [Read more...]
Sunday drive: Mitsubishi L200 legend lives on
A legend in its own lifetime is Mitsubishi’s L200 pick-up, sold globally over six decades accounting for over four million sales. Now the fifth generation versions are with us. The first generation was launched in 1978 as a single cab body style with standard and long wheelbase body options with two wheel drive and 4x4 traction for SWB models was introduced in 1982. Series 2 came along in 1987 … [Read more...]
Weekend roadtest: X-files reopened with BMW
X-marks the spot for BMW UK sales successes. The SUV series begins with the X1 and since its launch in 2009 over 40,000 have been sold in Britain. Last autumn the second series was announced and first orders are now trickling through. The new X1 runs to five models from about £31,225 to £36,060 with a choice of three diesels – 1.8 150, 2.0 190 or 2.5 231hp – and a 192hp 2.0 petrol. The best … [Read more...]
Newslines 22 January
The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloon is now available to order in the UK, priced from £35,935 OTR, ahead of first deliveries in May. Two trim levels are available, SE and AMG Line, and two engines, the E 220 d and E 350 d with the E 220 d SE, priced from £35,935, with the E 220 d AMG Line from £38,430 while the E 350 d SE starts at £44,930, and the E 350 d AMG Line at £47,425. Renault is … [Read more...]
Sara shines with GoldStars award
The BWRDC 2016 Elite GoldStars Award was presented to V-Ex Sponsored rally driver Sara Williams by former Williams F1 test driver Susie Wolff. The award is designed to provide recognition and mentoring for talented female drivers, something Susie has benefitted from earlier in her career. The award was made on Susie’s Dare 2 Be Different (D2BD) stand at the Autosport International show at … [Read more...]
Automechanika is shaping up to be UK industry success
SMMT will host an aftermarket-focused conference and networking event on Thursday 9 June as part of its programme of activities at Automechanika Birmingham 2016. The SMMT Aftermarket Forum will be open to senior delegates from the independent component supply and workshop network, offering insight and potential new business opportunities. Through thought-provoking panel discussions and … [Read more...]
Welsh insurer says 1.7M drivers in hit and run accidents
Around 1.7 million drivers have had a hit-and-run incident with a parked vehicle. A survey for Wales-based Gocompare.com, revealed 15% of drivers (4 million) have collided with a parked vehicle. Of these motorists 57% stopped and left their contact details, while 43% (1.7million) broke the law by driving off without admitting to the prang. Of those who drove away, just less than half did so … [Read more...]
John Cooper Works Convertible arrives in spring
Potent, race-bred John Cooper Works performance is now available as an open-air experience, with the debut of the new MINI John Cooper Works Convertible this spring. This new model uses the same 2-litre TwinPower Turbo engine as found in MINI John Cooper Works Hatch, and will cost £26,630 as a manual or £28,205 with automatic transmission and comes with a fully electric roof which operates in … [Read more...]