Auto Express - May 4, 2016

4-10 May 2016
No. 1,420 | 3.00
BRITAINS BIGGEST-SELLING WEEKLY CAR MAGAZINE

EXCLUSIVE
IMAGES
All-new SUV becomes part-MPV with space for seven
2016s coolest new SUV

leaves its rivals trailing
PLUS
Aston DB11 DRIVEN Ford Edge

New Jag XF estate DRIVEN
Prototype shows potential for greatness Exclusive first test of 30k SUV
EXCLUSIVE
IMAGES
www.autoexpress.co.uk
Heres thhe prooof Spor

Sportbrakes not dead
C@ntrol MSS
Contents
News | New Cars | Features | Tests | Products | Buying cars | Sport
Newsweek
COVER Aston Martin DB11
Early drive of prototype shows potential for greatness
COVER Honda CR-V
10
COVER Jaguar XF Sportbrake
12
Careless cops 390k misfuelling bill
15
Geely heading to UK
17
VW emissions update
18
London Motor Show preview

Lond
22
New SUV on its way, and we can show you what it looks like
Exclusive images and details of new executive estate
Shock gures reveal extent of polices ll-up failures

Chinese brand coming to Europe and SUV will be rst
Fix for Golf gets green light, but VW is behind schedule
Our in-depth guide to all the highlights at Battersea Park
Features
48 New Jaguar F-Pace vs rivals
PLUS
MG reimagined
MGB
26
Spec
Specced to the max
30
Design show us how modern-day roadster could look

Designers
12 XF Sportbrake revealed
ed
We go crazy on the options list with mind-boggling results
New cars
COV
COVER Ford Edge
32
MINI JCW Convertible
36
Mercedes GLE 350d
38
Lotus Elise Cup 250
40
SEAT Mii FR Line
42
Ford Mustang Convertible
44
Its been a long time coming, but is SUV worth the wait?
Storming 228bhp John Cooper Works drop-top rated
First UK drive of V6 diesel version of new SUV
Behind the wheel of fastest ever production Elise
32 First drive verdict on Fords Edge SUV
26 Designers vision of a reborn MGB
Online
this week
City car gets freshened up with sporty trim and loads of kit
EcoBoost version of all-American drop-top driven in the UK
Road tests
COVER F-Pace vs rivals
48
Pocket rocket shootout
58
Our cars
66
New Jaguar SUV takes on Discovery Sport and X3

New SEAT Ibiza Cupra faces Volkswagen Polo GTI
Updates on the Mazda MX-5 and Skoda Superb Estate
Products
10
Exclusive images of Hondas new CR-V
LONDON
MOTOR
SHOW
PREVIEW
Page 22
First UK drive of
new Suzuki Baleno
SUZUKI has a reputation for
developing small, affordable
and practical hatches, and the
Baleno (above) is no different.
It sits above the Swift in
the model range and while
it goes up against the Ford
Fiesta on price, its more of
a match for the larger Focus
when it comes to practicality.
Well be getting our first
taste of the Baleno on UK roads
this week. Head online next
Tuesday to see what we make
of the 1.0-litre turbo supermini.
For more visit
8 We get behind the wheel of Aston Martins new DB11

autoexpress.co.uk
New on the shelves
72
Sat-nav apps
76
All the latest kit, including a smart new self-breathalyser

Which is best for your smartphone? We test eight
Buying cars
Alhambra buyers guide
80
New car prices
86
Big SEAT MPV is now top value used from around 10,000
All the info you need before you head to the showroom
Regulars
Consumer news
24
Get Auto Express every week
64
Sport
96
Back chat
98
Watchdog solves your problems, plus you have your say
How to net a great deal on your favourite magazine

DTM season preview, plus all the latest news
Mike Rutherford on the continuing rise of SsangYong
4 May 2016 5
This week
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for all the latest new cars news
Road tests
Road test editor: James Disdale

Deputy road test editor: Dean Gibson
Senior road tester: Sean Carson
Road tester: Lesley Harris
Chinese makers will be here

soon, hitting the ground running
Contact us
Consumer
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AUTO EXPRESS ROADTESTS
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THE Chinese are coming! Its been the cry of

many a manufacturer over the past decade,
especially the old value brands (hello Kia, Skoda,
Hyundai) that have been edging upmarket and
wanting to put clear space between themselves and
what they expect to be new budget contenders from
the Far East.This week, we can reveal that the Chinese
are, indeed, coming. And how exciting it is, too.
Geely, owner of Volvo and the London Taxi
Company, will be selling cars in the UK within the
next two years. Whether theyre wearing a Geely
badge or under the Emgrand brand or another new
name, we dont yet know. But talking to Geely folk
and its Brit chief designer Peter Horbury this week
at the Beijing Motor Show, we found out that a range
of cars starting with an SUV will be here soon.
Peter showed me around the Geely Emgrand GS
(above), a Nissan Qashqai-sized SUV with an
unsurprising sense of style (unsurprising given
Horburys track record). Its full of tech, as well
built as a Kia and has some lovely Chinese design
features thatll appeal to Western buyers. Oh, and
itll sit on a platform co-developed with Volvo.
Whats always impressed me about Far Eastern
companies is the speed in which they improve.
They have investment behind them, too Peter
Horburys design team has grown from four
people to 350 around the world in just four years.
Where Geely leads, others will follow. Chinese
brands are, at last, looking west thats great news
for car buyers and fans here, if not other car makers.
MG is Chinese-owned these days and its also
debuting an SUV badged GS but at a homegrown
show this week. The London Motor Show kicks
off on Friday and were
delighted to be supporting
it. Our preview on Page
22 has all the info you
need for a great day out.
Steve Fowler
Editor-in-chief
The paper used within this magazine is produced from
sustainable fibre, manufactured by mills with a
valid chain of custody.
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4 May 2016 7
Top story
First for news every week
DB9 replacement on its way, and weve driven it ahead of launch

Prototype is claimed to be dynamically 98 per cent ready
Steve Sutcliffe
mail@dennis.co.uk
ITS not often that we get to drive

cars as important as this as early
in their development process. But
for one rather memorable afternoon, Aston
Martin threw us the keys to its new DB11,
months before its due to hit showrooms.
The DB11 is the replacement for the
excellent but ageing DB9. Its a vital car for
Aston, not least because it heralds a new
era for the famous sports car company
created under a new boss, by a new
engineering team, with a new set of goals.
It also happens to feature a brand-new
twin-turbo V12 engine. That poses the
biggest question of the DB11; has
turbocharging compromised this cars
values as an Aston Martin? And has the
character of the brand shifted as a result?
As far as I could tell having spent an
afternoon in the car on both wet and dry
handling circuits at Bridgestones stunning
test facility in Italy turbocharging has in
fact added to the cars overall appeal.
Although this is still a prototype, were
told that, dynamically, its 98 per cent ready,
so this is the real deal, minus some electrics
and the ubiquitous camouflage paint.
This is a car that you wouldnt guess was
turbocharged, unless you were told. From
its distinctive and deeply Aston Martin-like
howl on start-up, to the instant throttle
response, the DB11 feels just like an
atmospheric Aston of old only its
faster, cleaner, smoother, more refined
and better at everything it does, full stop.
With 600bhp on offer and just under
1,800kg to propel, the V12 does a delicious
job of making the DB11 feel rapid, but
without ever going over the top. This is
a GT car, remember not an out-and-out
sports car and the responses of the
POWER
600bhp DB11 is fast

without ever feeling
too extreme
8 4 May 2016
engine, steering, chassis, gearbox and even

the ESP and traction control systems have
been tuned to suit that nature. Yet its rapid
if you bury the throttle at which point the
new V12 really does sound magnificent.
The chassis is delightful. It rides very well
and theres a remarkable absence of roll.
The brakes dont fade like they did on old
Astons, either. The steering is probably the
stand-out feature, though, with Astons chief
chassis engineer Matt Becker claiming he is
happiest of all with this particular aspect.
Its difficult to get proper feel into
electric power-steering systems, he
admits. But Im quite pleased with the way
weve gone with it here, and the results
speak for themselves. Hes not wrong.
In reality, the DB11 steers quite beautifully,
with lovely feel and bags of feedback
on what the new, amusingly named
Bridgestone 007 front tyres are up to.
Well need to drive the DB11 on a wider
range of roads to tell if its a true world-beater,
but on this evidence, the signs of greatness
are there. It even makes the 154,950 list
price seem like strangely good value...
Verdict
IT might only be a prototype, but
its obvious that the DB11 is a deeply
special car. Any fears about turbocharging
are obliterated from the moment
that you start up the engine.
The potential for true greatness is
so big, it cant help but make you smile.
FIRSTDRIVE
Blast-off in
Early taste of prototype conrms new twin-tur
Aston Martin DB11
Top story
Essentials
Aston Martin DB11
Price:
Engine:
Power/Torque:
Transmission:
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
154,950
5.2-litre V12 twin-turbo
600bhp/700Nm
Eight-speed auto,
rear-wheel drive
3.9 secs
200mph
N/A
N/A
ON SALE August 2016
It feels like an Aston

of old but better at
everything it does, full stop
new Aston Martin DB11
rbo V12 stunner has potential for greatness
BEHIND
THE WHEEL
Our reporter
Steve Sutcliffe
spent an
afternoon
testing car at
Bridgestone
track and
came away
extremely
impressed
Stripped of its disguise,

new Aston has striking looks
to match its on-road potential
Its rapid if you bury the throttle; the

V12 really does sound magnificent
4 May 2016 9
News
Honda CR-V
EXCLUSIVE IMAGES
FRONT New nose retains familiar
Honda DNA, as grille merges with
narrower yet longer LED headlamps
CR-V ready to grow

with seats for seven
Next-generation SUV will be bigger than current model Set to be pitched against Discovery Sport
Jonathan Burn
Jonathan_Burn@dennis.co.uk
@Jonathan_burn
HONDAs largest European SUV is

about to become even bigger. The fifthgeneration CR-V will be based on a new
platform and is set to be powered by a range
of new engines. The focus will be on a more
upmarket experience when the new SUV
arrives in UK showrooms in 2018, and our
exclusive images preview how it could look.
Prototypes have already been spied testing
in the US (opposite, bottom), and despite
the heavy disguise, one thing is clear; the
CR-V will significantly grow in size. With the
Jazz-based HR-V muscling into Hondas SUV
line-up, the Japanese maker is bulking up
the larger CR-V and possibly fitting a third row
of seats for the first time. That means a new
batch of rivals, including the Nissan X-Trail,
Land Rover Discovery Sport and Kia Sorento.
The CR-V will share a chassis with the
new Civic hatch, which arrives in dealers
next February. The wheelbase on the
10 4 May 2016
all-new SUV could increase by around

80mm over the existing cars, with overall
length boosted by 50mm. Proportionally,
this will bring it closer in line with the X-Trail.
The CR-V was North Americas best-selling
SUV last year, with more than 345,000 cars
finding homes. Honda is hoping a mild
exterior refresh will also help widen the
models appeal in the UK, where between
15,000 and 20,000 models sell annually.
Our spy shots show how the trademark
Solid Wing Face grille merges with the lights
to ensure the nose retains Hondas family
DNA. Its most evident in the narrower yet
longer LED headlamps. As our images show,
the rear is dominated by bolder, L-shaped
lights that stretch wider on to the bootlid.
Changes will also extend to the engine
range. Honda has recently confirmed
new 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.5
i-VTEC turbos, plus an updated 1.6-litre
diesel for the Civic, and its likely the new
CR-V will benefit from the two larger units.
There should also be a revised version of
the 2.0-litre petrol with Hondas latest

technology. Theres no word on a plug-in,
but with ever-tightening emissions
regulations, a hybrid is a real possibility.
Four-wheel drive will remain an option, as
will the nine-speed automatic transmission,
which is unashamedly geared towards
economy. Standard models will be
front-wheel drive and come with a
six-speed manual gearbox, however.
Improvements in tech and quality will
also be on the agenda. Honda had set
ambitious targets to sell six million cars
annually by 2017, yet new CEO Takahiro
Hachigo put the brakes on his predecessors
target to focus on raising quality.
Expect plusher materials and extra
sound-deadening in the CR-V, plus a
more modern infotainment system with
a suite of smartphone-integration apps.
The new Honda will be built alongside
the HR-V in Japan, launching in the US
towards the end of 2017. We can expect to
see it in UK showrooms the following year.
REAR
Back end
is set to be
dominated
by bolder,
L-shaped lights
that stretch
wider across
the bootlid
SPIED
Honda CR-V
News
Avarvarii
CHANGES
Current CR-V
(right) is a
strong seller,
but the new
model will be
more spacious
and better
quality, too
Focus will be on a more upmarket

experience when the new SUV
arrives in UK showrooms
Automedia
ON TEST
Heavily
camouflaged
prototypes
spied in the US
show CR-V will
significantly
grow in size
4 May 2016 11
News
Jaguar XF estate
Jaguars plans for XF Spo

Estate unveiled next year
Extreme SVR to rival RS6
Steve Fowler
@stevefowler
JAGUARS highly acclaimed XF saloon

will spawn an estate version and its
likely to debut towards the end of next year.
Jaguar design director, Ian Callum, had
previously been reported as saying that the
firm would not build another estate, but he
was keen to put the record straight in
an exclusive interview with Auto Express.
I was misquoted saying wed never build
another wagon, Callum told us. I was
asked if wed ever build an XE wagon and
we wont. When asked about an XF estate,
he added: That would be a very pretty car.
Auto Express understands the new estate
has already been signed off and could debut
at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September
2017, before going on sale later that year.
Our exclusive images show how the car
could look, sporting the same sleek front
end as the new XF, with its more upright
grille. The swept-back headlamps with Jags
J-blade LED light signature also feature.
EXCLUSIVE IMAGES
DESIGN Exclusive image shows

how Jag XF Sportbrake could look,
with the same upright grille and
swept-back headlamps
as standard XF
Profile
The rear profile will not be too different to

the outgoing models, adopting a more
coup-like shape than a traditional estate. We
expect the back window to be shallower as
it is on the F-Pace SUV with the distinctive
twin half-hoop LED lights from the saloon.
Boot space is set to be slightly up on
the saloons, at around 600 litres, while
with the rear seats folded, space will be
larger than before 1,700 litres is feasible.
The usual floor rail fixing system and
powered tailgate are expected, too.
Callum also told us: Im a wagon fan.
And theres a sense of obligation that once
youve started a range, you need to continue
for your customers and hope to grow with it.
The design director went on to confirm
that there was interest in the XF Sportbrake
from the traditionally estate-averse Chinese
market. Ive spoken to a number of Chinese
about wagons, he said. Theres a general
feeling that as the market changes and
families grow, the need for a more practical
car than a sedan becomes more necessary.
Wed expect engines and trims to mirror
those in the saloon range, with entry-level
161bhp and 178bhp 2.0-litre diesels in
Prestige, R-Sport and Portfolio specs. There
will also be an S car with 297bhp, a 375bhp
V6 petrol and an extreme SVR model to rival
the Mercedes-AMG and Audi RS estates.
REAR Load-lugger will feature
a sporty, coup-like profile at the

rear, while shallow back window
is similar to that of the F-Pace SUV
With the rear seats

folded, boot space will
be larger than before
1,700 litres is feasible
12 4 May 2016
Jaguar XF estate
A Avarvarii
ortbrake revealed
News
news
inbrief
New estate has already

been signed off and could
debut at Frankfurt Motor
Show in September 2017
Tesla boss hints at

sub-30k Model 4
TESLA CEO Elon Musk has hinted at
plans for a cheaper electric car after
the 30k Model 3 (above) launches
next year. Speaking at a conference in
Norway, Musk said: There will be future
cars that are even more affordable.
With the fourth-generation and
smaller models, we will be in a position
where anyone can afford the car, he
continued. Rumours suggest a small EV
could be badged Model 4. A Model Y
small crossover is also on the cards.
VW revs up torquey
new turbo engine
Stretched-out XF hits China

WHILE an estate version might be 18 months away, Jaguar has taken the wraps
off its China-only extended-wheelbase XF L saloon (below) at the Beijing Motor
Show. Its 140mm longer than the standard car, giving rear passengers more leg
and kneeroom. The XF L is being built as part of JLRs joint venture with Chinese
car maker Chery at a new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Changshu.
The car debuts new tech, such as Clear Exit Detection, which warns passengers
of opening doors into approaching traffic. Theres also new air ionisation tech to
make it more comfortable when driving in polluted cities. As many of these cars
will be chauffeur-driven, therell be WiFi, folding tables, massage seats and electric
window blinds in the rear, while the latest 10.2-inch InControl Touch Pro
infotainment system features alongside a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
XF L is 140mm
longer than
standard car
VW has revealed tech details for its new

EA211 evo petrol turbo. Set to replace
the current 1.4 TSI, the 1.5-litre fourcylinder gets a variable geometry turbo
to allow maximum torque from 1,300rpm.
A high compression ratio, reduced
friction and improved heat management
mean its said to be 10 per cent more
efficient in real-world driving. Its set
to debut on the Mk7 Golf facelift, before
a 1.5 diesel rolls out in the Audi A3.
Page 18: VW Group emissions latest
Revised Amarok
gets 3.0-litre diesel
IN addition to the new turbo (above),
VWs revealed an updated Amarok
for 2016 (below). Bucking the current
downsizing trend, the 2.0 TDI diesel has
been replaced by a new 3.0-litre V6 in
161bhp, 201bhp and 221bhp forms.
With up to 550Nm of torque it can tow
3.5 tonnes, while CO2 emissions are as
low as 199g/km. Theres a tweaked
chrome grille, plus variable steering,
bigger brakes and post-collision braking.
OFFICIAL
4 May 2016 13
Police misfuelling
News
Careless cops 390,000 bill

for misfuelling uncovered
Over 2,100 cases since 2011
More than one incident a day
Joe Finnerty
Joe_Finnerty@dennis.co.uk
@AE_Consumer
POLICE forces in the UK have spent

nearly 400,000 in the last five years
on repairing their fleets after officers filled
patrol cars with the wrong fuel, according
to an exclusive Auto Express investigation.
Since 2011, there have been 2,147
incidents of an officer putting the wrong fuel
in their vehicle while on duty more than
one every day. And the problem is getting
worse, with the figures in the 2015 financial
year the highest of the last five according
to our Freedom of Information request.
The error has cost forces a collective
390,061 to repair misfuelled vehicles
at an average of 181.68 each time.
Forces spent a total of 378million on
fuel in the last five years, meaning 1 is
spent on repairing a misfuelled vehicle
for every 970 spent on diesel or petrol.
The force with the biggest repair bill
was the Metropolitan Police, although
its also top of the table for the amount
spent on fuel (64.6m), given its huge fleet.
But taking fuel spend into account,
Warwickshire is the worst offender, spending
1 on repairs for every 331.99 on fuel.
Some forces havent racked up any
misfuelling errors, though, and both the
Greater Manchester Police and Northern
Ireland forces have bunkered fuel sites with
pre-programmed keys to ensure the correct
type of fuel is dispensed. AA spokesman
Luke Bosdet said police misfuelling cars
EXCLUSIVE
TOP FIVE MISFUELLING

UK POLICE FORCES
We reveal the forces with the biggest repair bills for

misfuelled cars in the last five years. The Met Police
tops the table but it also spends the most on fuel.
1. Metropolitan Police
Total repairs 167,118.00
2. Kent
3. Derbyshire
4. Hampshire
5. Devon and Cornwall

FILL-UP
FIASCO
represent a mere fraction of the 150,000

cases a year. He added: Its an annoying
and avoidable mistake that will take a
vehicle off the road and place an extra
burden on stretched resources.
But it shows that police officers
are human like the rest of us. Stress
and pre-occupied minds are often the
cause of misfuelling mistakes, which
fleet managers can try to beat with
fuel-tank labelling and reminders.
Refuelling
errors in police
patrol cars have
cost 390,000
in repairs
Bentley planning Bentayga Speed

THE Bentley Bentayga is only just launching around the
world, but the company is already looking to expand its
line-up with a faster Speed version. Speaking at the
Beijing Motor Show, Bentley CEO Wolfgang Durheimer told
us that Chinas demand for SUVs increased the likelihood
of the next model in the Bentley line-up being another SUV.
Asked whether Chinese customers wanted more versions
of the Bentayga, Durheimer said: At the moment, they
want Bentayga. If youre asking whether there would be
Speed versions eventually, then yes, you might expect that.
Currently the SUV is fitted with a 600bhp 6.0-litre W12
engine, with diesel and plug-in hybrid models to follow.
A Speed version could up the W12s power by around
50bhp. Assuming a similar price premium as the Speed
version of the Contintental, it could cost around 180,000.
More powerful version

of W12 SUV is in
the pipeline
PLATINUM PORSCHE
PORSCHE has spiced up its Cayenne

range with a new Platinum Edition.
Available on the Cayenne Diesel or
S E-Hybrid, all cars get racy RS
Spider 20-inch alloy wheels, with
glossy detailing and privacy glass
to complete the look. Xenon lights,
heated electric sports seats, sat-nav
and a Bose stereo all feature. Prices
start from 55,154 for the Diesel, or
66,919 for the S E-Hybrid. Thats
2,465 and 2,107 more than the
standard models respectively.
A Speed version could up the W12

engines power by around 50bhp
4 May 2016 15
THE HEAD SAYS

YES
THE HEART SAYS
DEFINITELY, YES
MASERATI GHIBLI. STARTING FROM 49,165

The Maserati Ghibli is powered by a range of advanced 3.0 Litre V6 engines with 8-speed
ZF automatic transmission including, for the first time, a V6 turbodiesel engine.
www.maserati.co.uk
Official fuel consumption figures for Maserati Ghibli range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 20.5 (13.8) 36.7 (7.7), Extra Urban 39.8 (7.1) 57.6 (4.9),
Combined 29.4 (9.6) 47.9 (5.9). CO2 emissions 223 158 g/km. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are based on standard EU tests for comparative
purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Model shown is a Maserati Ghibli S at 68,923 On The Road including optional pearlescent paint
at 1,776, 20 machine polished Urano alloy wheels at 2,205 and Red brake callipers at 432.
Chinese brand coming to Europe

SUV first car on sale by 2018
Steve Fowler
@stevefowler
GEELY, the Chinese car maker that

owns Volvo and London Taxi
Company (LTC), plans to launch its
first car in Europe in 2018 according
to design boss Peter Horbury.
Brit Horbury heads a team of 350
designers working out of Geelys design
studios in Gothenburg, Shanghai,
Barcelona and Los Angeles, and the
first fruit of their labour to go on sale
here will be an SUV designed in Sweden.
Speaking at last weeks Beijing Motor
Show, Horbury said: Geely cars in Europe
are not far away at all within the next two
years. The first car will be an SUV and it will
be on a platform weve shown before.
Geely is sharing the development of a
new small car platform with Volvo the
Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) will
also underpin Volvos new XC40 SUV, as
well as a V40 replacement. Geelys are likely
to feature a range of modular three-cylinder
engines based on current Volvo units.
The brand unveiled the Emgrand GS SUV
(right) in Beijing a car that wouldnt look
out of place on UK roads. And although Geely
wants the SUV to have global appeal, it will
still use design cues from Chinese culture.
Horbury showed us how the grille
on the Emgrand GS reflects the ripples
from a pebble dropping into a pond,
while the intricate design of the
speakers also has Chinese influence.
Even some of the chrome in the cabin
is meant to reflect an unequal line being
drawn with a brush, rather than a linear
line created by a marker. European models
are set to feature a unique feather-like
SHOW STAR Emgrand GS

was revealed at the Beijing Motor
Show by Chinese company Geely
OFFICIAL
Geely SUV set for UK

DESIGN
Grille reflects
the ripples
from a pebble
dropping into a
pond; Apple
CarPlay features
as part of the
infotainment
Although Geely wants SUV

to have global appeal, it will
still use Chinese design cues
lighting signature, too. Horbury has

transformed Geelys design facility in the
past four years from a team of just four
to 350 people of multiple nationalities.
Weve taken design seriously, he told
us. Weve brought in some experienced
people from around the world and matched
them with hot-shot Chinese graduates.
So weve got that mix of real expertise
to help the young Chinese get their
fantastic ideas into production.
Aston teams up with Chinese giant for EVs

ASTON Martin is working with Chinese
media giant LeEco on projects, including
infotainment updates and electric cars.
LeEco is one of the major investors of
American EV company Faraday Future,
but it stunned Beijing crowds with its own
electric car plans, highlighted by the LeSee
autonomous electric car concept (right).
Aston CEO Andy Palmer told us: Rather
than knocking on Google or Apples door,
weve decided to knock on LeEcos door to
ask it to do an HMI system for us that would
be right for our Chinese customers. Theyve
created a Rapide with a system on board.
The next part is how can we build an
electric car together and how LeEco helps
us with the components from Faraday
Future. If it want to bring its cars to market,
it may need help from an established brand.
PARTNERS
Aston will help

LeEco get cars
like its LeSee
concept to
market, while
LeEco will work
on an Aston EV
4 May 2016 17
News
VW emissions update
VW admits its behind schedule

on Dieselgate emissions repairs
Fixes now likely to extend into next year Work on affected Golfs to start imminently
X Y I
FI AD 0 TD
RE F 2.
IS GOL
VW
Record-breaking
Golf GTI revealed
OFFICIAL
Clubsport S is fastest FWD car around Nrburgring
Martin Saarinen
Martin_Saarinen@dennis.co.uk
@AE_Consumer
Boss confirmed
that repairs are
underway, but
denied any of
Groups brands
would have to
be sold to fund
repair work
and legal bills
the 1.2 million vehicles in the UK but

its now expected to stretch into 2017.
Mller said: At the beginning of the
year we had a plan ready, but it had to be
reworked, because we didnt get approval
from the German transport authorities
when we thought we would. But the target is
still to complete this work by the end of this
year; well see then if we have to go beyond
that and into the first quarter of 2017. The
aim is to regain the trust of our customers;
on that basis we shouldnt shift this goal.
Despite having set aside 12billion to
pay for the scandal, Mller also denied
the Group would have to sell off any of the
firms 12 brands to cover further costs.
ILL X TDI
ST FI 2.0
NOASSAT
VW
VW Group bosses have admitted

emissions recalls have fallen behind
schedule and may extend into 2017.
The fix for all EA 189 2.0-litre engines
was scheduled to start from March this
year, and although German transport
authorities have now approved it for the
2.0-litre TDI in the Golf, there are still
delays on finding a solution for the Passat.
Speaking at a VW Group press conference
in Wolfsburg, CEO Matthias Mller said he
is confident a solution will be found in the
next few weeks for the saloon and ruled out
any possibility of introducing a buy-back
scheme in Europe similar to the one
announced last week in the US.
The latest confirmed fix will see
around 15,000 Golfs in Europe fitted
with manual gearboxes recalled imminently.
This will follow the work already carried
out in the UK on around 700 Amaroks. A
number of SEAT and Audi owners have
also had work completed, taking the total
to more than 2,000 UK repairs despite
accusations from Department for Transport
ministers that nothing had been done yet.
The original VW plan was to have all this
remedial work done this year including
VW LATEST
Mitsubishis 25 years of mpg manipulation

MITSUBISHI Motors has admitted manipulating fuel
economy figures for its cars sold in Japan since 1991,
and is investigating if models elsewhere are affected.
The US Environmental Protection Agency has
ordered the company to retest its cars sold in
18 4 May 2016
America, although Mitsubishi claims that

appropriate testing methods were used there.
Mitsubishi first revealed it had mishandled fuel
economy tests for 625,000 Japanese cars, and the
latest news wiped out nearly half of its market value.
MEANWHILE, VW has unveiled the Golf GTI Clubsport S

a hardcore two-seater version of its iconic hot hatch
that claims a new lap record for a front-wheel-drive
production car around the Nrburgring. With a time of
7:49.21, the S is around 1.5 seconds faster than the
previous benchmark set by the Honda Civic Type R.
The Clubsport S has a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine
producing 306bhp and 380Nm of torque. It drives the
front wheels through a six-speed manual box and can
cover 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds and go on to 165mph.
The Clubsport
ubsport S is due on sale in the second half of
this year.. The UK will get 150 examples out of the
scheduled
led production run of 400 cars, with an
expected price of
around 35,000.
S is lighter
er
than regular
ular
Clubsport,
t,
and has no
rear seats
ts
i3 gets battery boost

THE range of BMWs i3 is being boosted by a new
battery. It means the pure-EV version of the car can
travel 195 miles between charges, up from around
100 miles. The range-extender i3 can now travel
265 miles, thanks to its small petrol engine.
DC fast-charging will come as standard, as
well as improved AC charging phases that can
replenish the battery in under three hours.
There are few visual tweaks, although the
metallic blue paint from the i8 supercar will be
available on its baby brother for the first time.
The revised i3 will be available
from July; prices
rices will start
at 27,830 for
or the allelectric model.
el.
Longer
range
and new
paint for
updated i3
News
Beijing Motor Show
Mazda CX-4 leads array of

BEIJING ROUND-UP We look at the models that wowed the crowds in China
Lawrence Allan
Lawrence_Allan@dennis.co.uk
@LobAllan
LAST weeks Beijing Motor Show

demonstrated the growing influence of
the Chinese market on some of the biggest
global car makers. We saw a glut of models
built specifically for China, including several
long-wheelbase versions of existing cars, plus
brand-new models not destined for our shores.
Despite a fluctuating market, the huge
population makes China a key battleground
for manufacturers. Weve rounded up the
most important models unveiled in Beijing.
MAZDA CX-4
Rakish model joins the coup-SUV fray
AFTER several teaser images whetted our

appetite, Mazda finally pulled the covers
off its new CX-4. The coup-SUV will only
be sold in China for the time being, with
plans for global release currently on hold.
The CX-4 is a more design-focused
stablemate to the CX-5, with a rakish
roofline, muscular shoulders and a long
bonnet. The overall profile is very similar
to that of the 2015 Koeru concept.
Its 4.6m long and 1.8m wide roughly
the same size as the CX-5 yet that sporty
roofline means less rear seat space. The
dash design is identical, too, but theres
a lower driving position for a sportier feel.
For China, the CX-4 is offered with both
front and four-wheel drive, with a choice
of 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre petrols with manual
or automatic gearboxes. Will we see it in
Europe? Mazdas vice-president Kenichiro
Saruwatari said: We need to think about it.
LOOKS
FAMILIAR
Influence of
acclaimed
Koeru concept
is clear on the
production CX-4
BMW X1 Li
SUV gets long wheelbase for added space

THE new X1 SUV went on sale last year, but now
BMW has revealed a long-wheelbase version
to cater specifically for the Chinese market.
At 4.56m in length, the X1 Li is 79mm longer
than the standard model, with the extra space
benefiting rear occupants. The boot is
unchanged, at 505 litres. As is usual with
China-only models, it will be sold at launch
with a range of turbo petrol engines and no
diesels. A plug-in hybrid is expected later.
20 4 May 2016
Beijing Motor Show
f Beijing show stars
News
e s
James
Batchelor
James_Batchelor@dennis.co.u
James_Batchelor@dennis.co.uk
o.uk
@JRRBatchelor
@JRRBatch
tchelo
elor
Videowatch
THIS week, our videos feature the
Beijing M
Motor Show and some
top perfo
performance cars. See both
at yout
youtube.com/Autoexpress.
LEXUS IS
Facelifted compact exec is heading to Britain

eijing,
LEXUS unwrapped its facelifted IS in Beijing,
although we wont see it in the UK untill January
2017. A pair of reshaped headlights and a striking
new spindle grille bring it in line with cars
ars like the
RX SUV and RC coup. Sharper rear lights
ghts and sporty touches to F-Sport models
complete the exterior tweaks. Inside theres a new 10.3-inch infotainment screen,
which Lexus claims is easier to use than before. A redesigned dash and more standard
driver-assist tech will help it fight the new Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class.
MERC E-CLASS LWB
Exec car is stretched to provide more space and luxury

LIKE Jaguar, who revealed an XF L (Page 10), Mercedes has
also stretched its new E-Class saloon. The brands sales in
China are at an all-time high, and this should boost those
figures. The E-Class LWB gets 140mm in extra length, mostly
translating to extra rear legroom, while rear passengers
get a central armrest with wireless phone charging and a
touchscreen to control the COMAND infotainment system.
DS 4S
Video round-up of
Beijin
Beijing show stars
AS these pages illustrate, there

were a host of interesting new cars
at this years Beijing Motor Show.
This Far Eastern show always
throws up some gems, and there
were a handful of stars this year,
including the Jaguar XF L (above).
Editor-in-chief Steve Fowler was
our man in Beijing. Check out his
video where he picks his favourite
cars from the stands in China.
Which is our no.1

performance car?
Saloon joins expanding China-only line-up

WITH DSs European expansion under
way, PSA Peugeot-Citroens new
luxury brand added a crucial fourth
car to its Chinese line-up, the DS 4S.
Its a large hatch that sits below
the DS 5 LS saloon and DS 6 SUV,
and wont be sold in Europe, either.
The overall shape is very similar to a
Peugeot 308s, but it gets the typical
DS hexagonal grille and badging, as
well as the detailed LED headlights.
DS says it will feature a handcrafted leather dashboard and
loads of standard kit, plus the
watchstrap leather from the DS 3.
Its available with a range of
turbocharged petrol engines; a
129bhp three-cylinder PureTech and
a 158 or 197bhp 1.8 THP motor, all
with six-speed automatic gearboxes.
WITH more and more performance

cars being launched, weve decided
to count down the top 10 on sale.
Performance, handling and
desirability were all taken into
account, as well as power.
Which is our number one? Log
on to find out in our thrilling video.
You can watch
any of our videos
on your phone
Simply scan
this QR code.
4 May 2016 21
Newsextra
London Motor Show
Joe Finnerty
@AE_Consumer
THE London Motor Show officially opens its gates

on Friday (6 May), with hundreds of exciting models
signed up and ready for display in Battersea Park.
The UK has been without its own dedicated
automotive showcase since 2008, but organisers
of the revamped event have secured backing from
35 different car brands, including Aston Martin, RollsRoyce, Ford, Nissan, Jaguar, Land Rover and BMW.
Over the three days (6-8 May) at Battersea Evolution
Centre, 130 models will be displayed, from superminis
to supercars. There will be several UK debuts headlined
by MGs first SUV the GS and the 154,000
McLaren 570GT. The Infiniti Q60 will also be on display
on these shores for the
he first time alongside a limitededition one-off Land Rover Defender designed by Khan.
As well as models being available to test drive
via dealer tie-ups there will be a display of innovative
vehicles showcasing
g motorings exciting future.
Among these will be the
he Riversimple RASA the
Welsh-built two-seaterr hydrogen powered car
plus a replica of the 1,000mph
000mph Bloodhound SSC.
Away from the cars,, there will be a lecture theatre
with daily talks from high-profile speakers, such as
Sir Stirling Moss, Tiff Needell and Nigel Mansell. There
will be book signings,, too, plus the chance to sit
alongside these motorsport
torsport heroes on test drives.
A live demo of autonomous
onomous emergency braking
is another of the unique
que events taking place at the
London Motor Show. The Stop The Crash zone will offer
visitors the chance to experience the benefits of AEB in
a controlled real-world scenario and see the effects
tyre tread depth can have on braking performance.
Stephen Maitland-Oxley, London Motor Show events
director, said: Were thrilled to have The London Motor
Show in the capital. Its a hugely exciting time for
everyone in the automotive industry and theres
an exciting buzz amongst all the exhibitors.
For visitors, theres something
as well
ng for everyone;
ery
;a
as admiring the latest cars and listening to inspiring
guest speakers, theres a huge range of activities
available for children
hildren and the whole family to
enjoy making this a must-attend event for all.
all.
RECORD
CHASER
Among the
hundreds of
cars on display
in London will
be a replica of
the Bloodhound
SSC, which will
attempt
emp to hit
1,000mph
INFINITI
INITI Q60
Premium sports
ports coup makes UK debut
with new 3.0-litre
-litre V6 twin-turbo engine.
Rear-wheel-drive
l-drive model uses adaptive
steering and digital suspension system
Your in-depth guide to th

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
HOW TO
GET THERE...
THE Battersea Evolution Centre is located

in the grounds of Battersea Park in south
London, just a few miles away from the
centre of the capital, with local trains and
London Underground tubes servicing the
area as well as Transport for London
buses. Access is via Chelsea Bridge Gate.
BY TRAIN: Victoria (mainline trains/

Victoria line) is 1.1 miles away.
Sloane Square Tube (District
and Circle line) is 0.8 miles away.
Battersea Park/Queenstown Road
(main line) is 0.8 miles away.
BY BUS: To Queenstown Road (Chelsea

Gate): 137 (N137), 44 (N44) and 452.
BY CAR: For those driving and using a
sat-nav, the postcode is SW8 4NW. Access
22 4 May 2016
is via the Chelsea Gate

entrance, on Queenstown
Road next to Chelsea Bridge.
Theres pay and display
car parking in front of the
venue as well as in other
parts of Battersea Park.
HOW TO
BUY TICKETS...
TICKETS are available on the day, but its

advised to pre-book via the official
website (thelondonmotorshow.co.uk).
General admission tickets cost 15.
Auto Express readers can use the
code WCOTY2016 to get a 10 per cent
discount with a donation from the
organisers going to the Marcus Rutherford
Foundation/Young Adult Cancer Trust.
To order by phone or for group bookings
of 10 or more, call 0844 844 2121.
For children under 11, its free and two
children under this age are

allowed for every full paying adult.
OPENING TIMES...
Friday 6 May 10am to 6pm
Saturday 7 May 10am to 6pm
Sunday 8 May 10am to 5pm
FOR a family of four, its estimated that
itll take just under two hours to make it
round the show. If it rains, dont worry,
as 80 per cent of the show is under cover.
London Motor Show
Newsextra
MCLAREN 570 GT
Designed to be an everyday car with supercar performance,
the 570GT is making its first public appearance in the UK.
Power comes from a 562bhp 3.8-litre V8 engine
MG GS
First SUV from MG will also be seen

se in Britain
crowded market
for the first time. It enters a crow
the MG3 and MG6
looking to build on success of th
the London Motor Show

SITE MAP
xx Xxxxxxxx 2016 23
Watchdog
We get behind the stories that affect you
Stephen has been left in

courtesy car due to
wrangle between
BMW and insurer
Joe
Finnerty
Making it easier for people to
learn to drive and own cars
would cut unemployment
Insurer and BMW go

head-to-head over fault
CASE STUDY Owner left in limbo as cover provider and manufacturer disagree over leaky air vent
Julie Sinclair
ITS not often Auto Express hears from

a motorist whos been left without a car as
their dealer and insurer cant agree over
whos to blame for a fault. But thats the
unhelpful situation faced by reader
Stephen Ripley of Dunfermline, Fife,
who was left in a courtesy car for weeks.
He told us heavy rain had flooded
the boot of his year-old BMW M135i last
October, so he took it to dealer Eastern
BMW in Newbridge, Edinburgh, expecting
a free fix. But the warranty claim was
rejected, as BMW argued the leaky air vent
was down to accident damage, which had
caused the seal to fail and the car to leak.
It recommended he call his insurer instead.
Stephen did just that, but after inspecting
the vehicle, cover provider Tesco concluded
there was no visible accident damage to
corroborate BMWs claims, even beneath
the bumper, which it removed during one of
its two inspections. Tesco argued the part
must be faulty, or it was damaged during
factory fitting, and refused to pay out, too.
In the meantime, Stephen searched
BMW owner forums online and found other
motorists complaining about a leaky vent
in the boot of their cars. Auto Express also
called a number of BMW dealers, and was
told thered been a history of leaks with this
24 4 May 2016
RESEARCH
Stephen took to
online forums
for a solution,
and found that
hes not the
only BMW
owner to have
suffered with
leaky air vents
The insurer concluded

there was no visible
accident damage to
corroborate BMWs claims
part. However, after weeks of wrangling, it
was Stephens insurer that finally agreed
to submit a no-fault claim, and gave him
a courtesy car while his was being fixed.
Stephen said: That still means losing
my no-claims bonus and paying an excess,
which seems totally unreasonable in the
circumstances. Auto Express called

BMW but it refused to comment. Instead, its
spokesman explained BMW had carried out
four separate inspections once by a
regional master technician and added:
All of these experts arrived at the same
conclusion. Evidence supports that the leak
has occurred due to an impact on the vehicle
and thus is not a manufacturing defect and
does not qualify for a warranty claim.
Stephen told Auto Express he was really
disappointed with the response, adding:
Im going to have to pursue this further, as
I feel Ive been bullied and misled by BMW,
and Im now massively out of pocket.
LATEST gures show that 5.1 per

cent of adults are unemployed
in the UK, despite the best efforts
of Government policies to get
people back into work.
But perhaps ministers should look
for some joined-up thinking in their
decision making, as by continually
hitting motorists they might be
stopping some people getting a job.
Take the Governments own
employment database as an example.
RAC Foundation analysis reveals
15 per cent of job vacancies state
that access to a vehicle or a valid
licence is necessary to ll the post.
Professions that require applicants
to be able to drive are as diverse as
carers, cleaners, zoo workers, chefs,
sales consultants and security guards.
Instead of cutting benets to force
people back to work, why not make it
easier to learn to drive and own a car?
Getting people mobile can open
up a wealth of job opportunities.
Rather than introducing policies
to stop parking on kerbs, to encourage
people to walk and cycle, how about
capping insurance premiums for
younger drivers? Why not slash fuel
duty to make it cheaper to ll up?
And what about plans shelved
for now that would have put a
night-time curfew on young drivers?
How would they be able to hold
down a job with unsociable hours?
In the past couple of decades theres
been a decline in the proportion of
young people especially men
holding a driving licence. Great for
trafc and the environment, but not
for addressing unemployment. Yes,
its a Catch 22 situation, but thats why
politicians are elected to make sure
the tough decisions are the right ones.
@AE_Consumer
How about capping

insurance premiums
or slashing fuel duty
for cheaper fill-ups?
Inbox
What do you think?
Contact Martin Saarinen
HOT TOPIC Citroens new C3
Sat-nav software on a number of Kia models cannot be updated, irritating owners
FROM: Andrew Hughes ID say that the

new C3 is actually more conservatively
styled than the vehicle it replaces. It
just looks like a bloated C1. It isnt
quirky at all, and loses all of
Citroens past brand values of
designing unusual vehicles.
A Avarvarii
Kias lose their way

over sat-nav updates
FROM: Phil THIS looks so much better

than any other supermini currently
on sale. The four-door configuration,
along with the way the grille neatly
incorporates the Citroen logo,
makes the C3 a very stylish car
even more desirable than the DS 3.
NEW LOOK
Readers have had their

say on our exclusive
image of next C3
Owners frustrated as mapping on some cars cant be updated

Joe Finnerty
CHANGING road layouts, new

motorway junctions and speed
limit alterations all mean you need
to keep your sat-nav up-to-date.
If youve got a portable device or
app, it can be as easy as connecting
to a laptop or WiFi. However, for
built-in factory-fitted systems,
this can be a little trickier.
For Alex Pickering, from Chester,
its proven impossible, due to
delays on Kia systems. Hes still
having to use old mapping data
on his 2013 Optima, while owners
of other Kias, aged from 2010
onwards, have also raised
concerns via online forums.
Alex told us: Ive been
waiting for months for Kia to
get the issue resolved. I have
no way of updating the maps.
Auto Express contacted Kia
directly, and a spokesman said this
was down to its external provider
not making updates available
in some European markets.
He added: Kia Motors (UK)
has been working to obtain a retail
update service, and were confident
this will be available soon. Once
sorted, we shall offer it to all our
customers via our dealer network.
Were disappointed weve
not been able to satisfy some of
our customers on this matter. We
would apologise to Mr Pickering
and other customers whove had
problems, but assure you that
this matter is a priority for us.
Useful
Contacts
TRADING
STANDARDS
Gerry Taylor
Chartered Trading
Standards practitioner
www.tradingstandards.gov.uk
RUST you dont see it until its too late,

and you cant hear or smell it. Advances
in technology mean you dont see the
rustbuckets of the past, but with
Britain experiencing wetter winters and
widespread flooding, cars remain at risk.
In 2010, it was first brought to my
attention that new cars subjected to
flooding were being dried out and resold
as used models at premium prices.
This all came to light when an
independent dealer inspected a Jaguar
due to intermittent electrical faults, and
discovered it had been submerged in
floods halfway up its doors. It had
then simply been valeted and offered
for sale as a low-mileage used car.
Flood water had not only got into
the electrics, but also the internal box
sections of the crumple zones, creating
hidden rust pockets. In time, the
vehicles structural integrity would
have failed and safety would have been
severely compromised. It was sold as
a category X an internal label that
is not recognised by buyers or insurers.
So, check under carpets and inside
door pockets, the boot and engine for
tide marks or mud deposits. Smell the
soft trim for signs of stagnant water. If
in doubt, get an independent inspection.
THE following provide help

with motoring problems.
Some services are free,
others charge a fee or
operate on premium-rate
lines (p), while some offer
advice for members only (m).
Legal
AA: 0906 010 1300 (p)
RAC: 0870 5533 533 (m)
Which?: 01992 822 800
Consumer Direct:
0845 404 0506
Local Trading Standards
Local Citizens Advice Bureau
Join the debate at www.autoexpress.co.uk

The new Citroen C3
is a nice-looking car.
Its not boring like the
VW Polo and Skoda Fabia.
Monkey tennis
I wonder how practical

the airbumps are on the
C3. Placed low on the doors,
they dont look too useful.
Conejito loco
To me, this car looks

like it should be a five-door
DS 3. A very smart-looking
design from Citroen.
Gordon McCartney
Ignorant lane hoggers

must learn their place
Top tip to ensure

the longevity of DPFs
FROM: Neville Withers I 100 per cent agree

with Terry Jones (Letters, Issue 1,417)
about middle-lane hoggers. I regularly
see drivers driving in the central lane
with no traffic on either side. Another
of my pet hates is when drivers leave
large gaps in stop-start traffic.
FROM: Bill Lawrie MY advice to anyone

with queries about diesel particulate filter
(DPF) regeneration is to keep the revs high
not necessarily the vehicle speed. Its
perfectly possible for regeneration to occur
at low, urban speeds, provided optimal
engine temperatures been reached.
Why wont VW dealer

look at Audi engine?
Tail of woe for Jag XF

due to ugly exhausts
FROM: A Powell I OWN an Audi A4 Allroad

with a 3.0-litre diesel the same engine
found in numerous VW models. My local
VW garage was not interested in providing
an oil change, and suggested I should
go to an Audi dealer instead. I find it
odd that the same engine can be used,
but not serviced, across the brands.
FROM: Michael Westrup WHY is it Jaguar fits

one exhaust on the left-hand side of the
XF and XE diesels, but two on the petrol
versions, on each side? In your test in
Issue 1,418, the Mercedes and the Audi
diesels have good-looking exhausts
built into the rear. The Jags looks like
the maker couldnt be bothered with it.
Used car inspections

AA: 0800 085 3007
RAC: 0800 085 2529
Technical advice
AA: 0870 606 1619 (m)
Driving licences
DVLA: 0300 790 6801
Car registration/history
HPI: 01722 422422
AA: 0800 316 3564
DVLA: 0300 790 6802
RAC: 0800 975 5867
Traffic information
AA: 09003 401100 (p)
RAC: 09003 444999 (p)
Problems with dealers

Motor Codes:
0800 692 0825
Consumer Ombudsman:
www.consumerombudsman.org
RMIF: 0845 839 9205 (m)
Scottish Motor Trade
Association: 0131 331 5510
Problems with makers

Motor Codes: 0800 692 0825
Financial problems
Financial Ombudsman:
0800 023 4567
Safety concerns/recalls
DVSA: 0300 123 9000
4 May 2016 25
A different take on the world of motoring
Its the car that you want to see return more than any other, but what
would a new MGB look like? Young designers share their vision with us
Martin Saarinen
@AE_Consumer
WIND back the clock half a decade, and

youd find yourself amid the heyday of
British engineering and design. The likes of
Jaguar, MG, Triumph, Aston Martin and
countless others were coming up with new
and daring sports cars by the dozen some
which go for record fees at auction today.
Given the fondness for the era, its
no surprise that when Auto Express ran a
poll asking our readers which legendary car
theyd most want to see resurrected, the
MGB emerged as the clear favourite.
The original MGB remains one of the
great icons of early British sports cars and a
pillar of the nations automotive history. The
roadster first saw daylight in 1962, powered
by a raspy 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine,
good for 94bhp and 145Nm of torque.
As with its Midget, MG chose to build the
MGB around a monocoque structure, instead
of the more traditional body-on-frame design,
making the car lighter and more rigid this
resulted in excellent steering and handling.
As sales began to grow, more models
appeared. A fixed-roof MGB GT penned by
Pininfarina joined the ranks in 1965 with a
sloping roof structure, while the MGC saw a
straight-six cylinder engine replacing the
in-line four in the late sixties. A MGB GT V8,
with an eight-cylinder engine from Rover,
hit the roads during the early seventies, too.
The front-engined sports car was
also ideal for motorsport. MGBs have graced
the special stages, competed at the Targa
Florio in Sicily and survived endurance
stints at Germanys fearsome Nrburgring.
For 18 years, the MGB came off the line at
the Abingdon plant in Oxfordshire, with over
half a million models finding new homes. The
MGB remains MGs best selling car to date.
Its now over 30 years since the last MGB
rolled off the line and with the brand now
making a comeback in the UK with the MG3
and MG6, we wondered what an MGB might
look like if it was reimagined for the modern
26 4 May 2016
MG 6R2 by Jack Carter
era. To find out, Auto Express joined the UK MG

Car Club and laid down the challenge to the
next crop of design talent at Staffordshire
Universitys Transport Design course.
The club was quite clear on what it
wanted to see, advising the students
that any new MGB must be the definition
of what a British sports car should be.
It added: The success of the MGA,
MGB and MGF was down to the balanced
mix of modern design and connection with
heritage. The new look shouldnt be retro, but
needs to combine the two aforementioned
details to create the classic MG look and
inviting feel. The modern MGB would ideally
have the open headlights that everyone
recognises, along with an open top.
So what did our students come up
with and how did the Car Club rate
their efforts? Read on as we reveal all...
CLASSIC
MGB is
one of the
best loved
British sports
cars ever, and
even enjoyed
success on
rally stages
DESIGNER Jack Carter describes his idea as

a track focused car for the road. He told us:
The 6R2 has a very short rear overhang with large
bulging arches to exaggerate its low, wide stance.
It also features an integrated splitter at the front
and a large intake inside the door, creating a very
aggressive looking car. The original
MGB was a lightweight sports car,
something Carter mimicked.
He added: There
is no roof at all for
the car, which
helps keep the
weight low.
MG GE (George Eyston)
by Phillip Haynes
NEW MGB by Sam Such
ALTHOUGH designer Phillip Haynes sees

the modern MGB as an electric roadster,
he hasnt forgotten the cars roots.
The single bulging headrest-fairing is
classic British sports car, while the silver
zip-line running across the side, rear and
interior is a modern take on the chrome
overhangs found on the original MGB.
Other details include the use of materials
found in cars preceding the original MGB.
Haynes told Auto Express: The bonnet
fastening holds a leather belt; its a nod to
the MG K3 driven by George Eyston which
won the Mille Miglia in 1933, as is the
circular decal on the side of the vehicle.
The sport-inspired two-tone paint job
is made all the more attractive with the
metallic British flag engraved on top, too.
I WANTED my car to be a traditional

roadster, designer Sam Such explained.
The front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout
allows space for a long bonnet, and means
the driver would sit almost over the rear
wheels just how a roadster should be.
He also added a subtle design touch with
the styling of the A-pillars. Such explained:
By having the paintwork stop halfway up,
it gives the impression that the windscreen
has been chopped down, bringing with
it a heightened sense of speed.
4 May 2016 27
Inside story
MGB reimagined
MG HORIZON CONCEPT
by Dwayne Graafland
THANKS to a lightweight design and nippy
handling, the MGB didnt fare too badly
as a race and rally car. Designer Dwayne
Graafland wanted to bring some of this motorsport
heritage to his interpretation of the modern MG.
He told us: The MG Horizon Concept combines
the historical roots of previous MGs with the brands
rally heritage; the foglights have been inspired
by those found in early race cars, and the colour
combination looks back at the GT rally cars.
The overriders in the rear are inspired by the
1973 MGB GT, but have been redesigned to fit
the Horizon Concepts design language.
Graafland also envisions his car using electric
power, while the interior keeps to a clean layout,
with a touchscreen replacing many of the buttons
found in the old car. The original oval lights have
been replaced with a more aggressive set of LEDs.
MG ROADSTER
by Kerem Sayan
DESIGNER Kerem Sayan also referenced MGs
motorsport heritage when designing his car.
He said: I wanted to keep some of the key
features of the classic car, like the long bonnet and
British racing green, plus bring something new.
Sayan introduced some innovative aerodynamic
designs to his car. He told us: As a designer, I could
not help but to try out something new. Theres
some fun features in my design, like an active aero
wing on the front bumper, and a gap that feeds air
through the grille and exits at the top of the bonnet.
AND WHAT DID THE MG

CAR CLUB HAVE TO SAY?
UK MG Car Club general manager Adam Sloman
was impressed with the effort that had gone into
all of our designs, but had one clear favourite.
He told us: I really like the Horizon concept.
The targa top is back in fashion these days
it looks great on the current Porsche 911. It
reminds me of the Midget with its short, squat
dimensions. Sloman also liked the GE, and
added: It is a great looking car, but perhaps
a little generic. It needs a bit more character
to give it the stand-out factor of the original.
HORIZON Concept got the thumbs-up from MG Car
Club thanks to its blend of retro and modern design cues
28 4 May 2016
Inside storyextra
Ultimate extras
AUDI
100k Audi Q7
Entry-level: Q7 SE 3.0 TDI 218PS (47,755)
We built: Q7 S line 3.0 TDI 272PS (100,051)
Key options:
Matrix LED headlights (950)

Tow bar, electrically folding with trailer assist (1,300)
Electric panoramic glass sunroof (1,700)
IF you go all out with the options list on the new Audi Q7
SUV, you could end up spending more than 100,000.
Along with the Solar Orange paintjob from the brands
Exclusive range (at 2,155), our model was specified
with the 2,655 Dynamic Pack, 6,000 Full Leather
Package and the 6,300 Bang and Olufsen 3D Sound
stereo system. Audis accessories list even includes a
branded plush toy shaped like a steering wheel.
Jake Groves
Jake_Groves@dennis.co.uk
@_jakegroves
WHAT kind of petrolhead doesnt love a quick go at

building their dream car on an online configurator? If
youre hankering after a new set of wheels or are putting
together your ultimate imaginary garage, clicking
through a spec list will fill any car lover with glee.
Of course, configurators are valuable tools when
youre genuinely searching for a new car they help
you decide which options are must-haves, and what you

can afford. But what if money is no object and you select
every option on the list? Just how far can you push it?
We picked a range of makers and models, from
superminis to SUVs, and specified them to the max.
Plus, to see where all the extra costs come from, weve
highlighted some of the noteworthy options on each car.
SPECCE
NISSAN
PORSCHE
29k Nissan Juke
130k Porsche 911 Carrera S
39k Vauxhall Cascada
Entry level: Juke Visia 1.6 (13,930)

We built: Juke Tekna DIG-T 190 Xtronic (29,219)
Entry-level: 911 Carrera S (85,857)

We built: 911 Carrera S (129,933)
Entry-level: Cascada SE 1.4i Turbo (24,790)

We built: Cascada Elite 1.6i Turbo auto (38,735)
Key options:
Key options:
Key options:
Storm White pearlescent paint (745)

Creative Exterior+ Pack (650)
Alarm (344)
NISSANS Juke crossover is typically seen as good value. It
might not be the most practical or fun car to drive, but its
tall driving position and sharp styling mean buyers continue
to flock to it. However, we cant really imagine anyone
buying a Juke at our whopping 29,219 price, when you
can get a top-spec Qashqai Tekna for around 1,000 less.
The sizeable final price is down to the Jukes endless
personalisation options, and the fact our example has the
188bhp turbo petrol engine and Xtronic four-wheel drive.
30 4 May 2016
LED main headlamps in black (2,181)

Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (5,787)
Sports Exhaust system (1,773)
WE didnt go all out on the range-topper with our 911,
picking the Carrera S instead. A standard model
costs over 85,000, but when youre feeling flush,
you can easily add more than 40,000 to the price.
Our example included the bright Miami Blue paintwork,
20-inch RS Spyder Design alloy wheels and the slick PDK
automatic gearbox, at 2,388. We also chose to get
the key painted in the same colour as the car (for
248) and specified the raspy Sports Exhaust system.
VAUXHALL
Premium Leather Pack, Brandy Nappa (2,495)

FlexRide adaptive chassis control (790)
Navi 950 IntelliLink (1,200)
VAUXHALL is usually known as a great-value brand, but

things can get expensive very quickly if you specify a lot of
trimmings to the Cascada convertible. Our model came in
at a hefty 38,735 when we added optional extras like the
Persian Blue paint, sharp-looking 20-inch alloy wheels and
the sat-nav system with the brands smart IntelliLink set-up.
The car certainly looks the part inside, with the hugely
appealing tan leather upholstery, but upwards of 35,000
is quite a chunk of cash to part with for this Vauxhall.
Ultimate extras
Inside storyextra
BMW
LAND ROVER
MINI
42k BMW 3 Series 3cyl
71k Range Rover Evoque
38k MINI Clubman
Entry-level: 318i SE (25,160)

We built: 318i Sport (42,070)
Entry-level: Evoque SE eD4 (30,600)

We built: Evoque Coup HSE Dynamic
Lux Si4 auto (70,614)
Entry-level: Cooper Clubman manual (20,105)

We built: Cooper S Clubman auto (37,550)
Key options:
John Cooper Works Chili Pack (3,865)

British Racing Green paint (515)
Panoramic Glass Sunroof (800)
Key options:
BMW Icon adaptive LED headlights (610)

BMW Individual leather instrument panel (1,075)
Internet access (95)
WE approached the BMW 3 Series in a different way.

Instead of wondering how expensive we could make the
top-spec model, we wanted to see how far we could push
a 1.5-litre three-cylinder version of the compact exec.
It turns out you can easily spend 42,000 on one if you
opt for the Tanzanite Blue finish, 19-inch Individual alloys
and various packs. Our 318i Sport worked out at 14,023
per cylinder, and is more expensive than a 525d SE Touring.
Black contrast fixed panoramic roof (520)

Adaptive LED headlights (1,035)
Wade sensing (250)
THE Range Rover Evoque is a classic target for getting

silly with the options list, and any extras you go for
are on top of a rather heady starting price of just under
49,000 for the three-door HSE Dynamic Lux Si4 auto.
Our 71,000 car came with the 625 Phoenix Orange
metallic paint, 1,220 Adaptive Cruise Control system
and a Rear Seat Entertainment pack worth 2,075.
D TO THE MAX
VOLKSWAGEN
VOLVO
53k VW Passat Estate
47k Volvo V40 Cross Country
Entry-level: Passat Estate S 1.6 TDI (24,200)

We built: Passat Estate R-Line 2.0 BiTDI SCR
240PS 4MOTION DSG (53,024)
Entry-level: V40 Cross Country SE D2 (23,970)

We built: V40 Cross Country Lux Nav T5 auto (46,590)
Key options:
Integrated child seats (405)

230V socket (90)
Fourteen-way electric front seats and
driver massage seat (930)
Key options:
Xenium Pack (2,000)

Alecto Gloss-Black wheels with black inserts (2,325)
Flexible load floor (100)
YOU could easily push a Volkswagen Passat Estates

price tag upwards of 50,000, with our top-spec
R-Line edition featuring the 237bhp twin-turbodiesel
engine, four-wheel drive and VWs slick shift paddles.
We also went for the 970 Oryx White paint, 19-inch
Verona alloy wheels, the 1,145 Dynaudio Confidence
pack and a swivelling tow bar for pulling a caravan.
ARE you in the market for some plush Swedish metal?

If youve got 47,000 hanging around in your back
pocket, you could spec the jacked-up version of Volvos
premium hatch, the V40 Cross Country, to the max.
Our heavily upgraded model had a T5 engine and
four-wheel drive, and the price quickly racked up with
fairly general options like keyless entry and Volvos
On Call connected car system. The biggest expense
was 2,325 for sharp-looking black alloy wheels.
Key options:
THE funky MINI Clubman is an acquired taste due to

its estate-like shape and six-door layout. In order to
make it truly unique, MINI does its best to cater for your
every whim with a huge amount of available options.
We went for the hot, front-wheel-drive Cooper S Clubman
in classic British Racing Green and threw all the bells and
whistles at it to reach a 38,000 price. You could get an
entry-level Clubman as well as a MINI Cooper for that.
Just how far can you take a car

configurator? We went mad on the
options lists on some popular models
and the results are mind-boggling
THE DOWNSIDE
How speccing up can
drive used values down
OF course, while creating massively personalised
cars like we have is great fun, do it in reality and
you run the risk of losing a lot of money at resale.
Rupert Pontin, head of valuations at Glasss
Guide, told us: Its better to go for a higher spec
car, rather than adding options to a basic one.
Once a car is three years old, a 2,000
option might only be worth between 250
and 300 extra on the used market.
Steering clear of extrovert colours, like on
our Porsche 911 Carrera S (below), is also a wise
idea. Explained Rupert: From a return point of
view, youre creating a car thats tailored only
to you. You could find the price people are
prepared to pay is a lot less than you think.
4 May 2016 31
New cars
36
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for the latest new cars and drives
MINI CONVERTIBLE
John Cooper Works
version of funky
drop-top blasts off.
Performance
0-62mph/top speed
9.4 seconds/131mph
NEED
TO KNOW
An even more
expensive Edge
Vignale has been
added to the range
and could cost as
much as 40,000
The boot measures 602 litres which is more

than any rival from Audi, BMW or Mercedes
32 4 May 2016
38
MERC GLE 350d
V6 diesel SUV gets put

through its paces on UK
roads for the first time.
40
ELISE CUP 250
Our verdict as Lotus

unleashes fastest
ever production Elise.
42
MII FR LINE
SEAT city car freshened

up with sporty look and
an array of equipment.
44
FORD MUSTANG
First UK drive of allAmerican convertible

with EcoBoost power.
FordEdge
FIRST DRIVE US-developed SUV has been

a long time coming. So is it worth the wait?
Jonathan Burn
Jonathan_Burn@dennis.co.uk
@Jonathan_burn
Running costs
47.9mpg (official)
71 fill-up
YOU could be forgiven for thinking the

Ford Edge had been around for some
time. First shown as a concept back in 2013,
it then went on sale in the US two years ago,
before finally making the trip across the
Atlantic and on to European soil. So it faces
a tough fight when it reaches UK showrooms
in the middle of the year, thanks to the
frantic and competitive nature of the
SUV market the Edge is wading into.
To give you some context, the Edge sits
above the EcoSport and Kuga in Fords SUV
hierarchy, and is aimed at established
German rivals such as the BMW X3 and Audi
Q5. But dont think itll leave you better off
financially just because its a Ford; the Edge
costs largely the same as the competition
its squaring up to. Prices start from 29,995
and rise to 36,750 the sort of cash buyers
have been spending on X3s for years.
The car we have here sits at the very top
of the line-up: a 208bhp 2.0-litre biturbo
diesel, fitted with a six-speed automatic
gearbox and four-wheel drive. In Sport
spec, its the most expensive Edge on
sale without options at 36,750.
You do get plenty of kit for your money;
active noise-cancelling technology, 20-inch
alloy wheels, a leather interior, an eight-inch
infotainment system with sat-nav and a front
view camera all come as standard. If you
want your X3 or Q5 to match the Edge for
kit, youll have to head to the options list.
The Edge looks the part, too. Its nicely
proportioned with broad shoulders and
chiselled flanks. Sport models also get
darkened front and rear bumpers and
chrome tailpipes as extra decoration.
Inside is less exciting, though. The Edge
is based on the same platform as the
humble Mondeo, so comes with a selection
of the same engines, and an identical
interior. Its not unpleasant, but the design
is just a little bland and unimaginative
especially compared to the equivalent
opulence the Mercedes GLC will cocoon
you in for almost the same amount of cash.
And something else the Edge has
adopted from its smaller sibling is a
rather unremarkable driving experience.
The new Mondeo ushered in a more
comfort-oriented and relaxed character for
big, modern-day Fords. For an SUV whose
primary function is to transport lots of
people and things around comfortably
a more relaxed manner sounds like an
ideal foundation to work from, but it
Essentials
Ford Edge Sport
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
36,750
2.0-litre 4cyl biturbo
208bhp/450Nm
Six-speed auto,
four-wheel drive
9.4 seconds
131mph
47.9mpg
152g/km
ON SALE Now
EQUIPMENT Part-leather interior is
standard on Sport models. Fords SYNC 2

system, with sat-nav and DAB radio,
and 20-inch alloys are also fitted
PRACTICALITY Handy cubbies
dotted around the cabin for odds and

ends are a bonus. The 602-litre boot
is the most spacious in its class
has its drawbacks. On the move, the Edge
absorbs bumps and ruts, but the large
20-inch alloys do sniff out bigger road
imperfections. Theres softness in the
suspension, despite Sport models coming
with firmer springs, which means theres a
noticeable degree of body roll though
corners more so than any of its rivals.
This is exaggerated by the disconnected
and elastic feel of the steering.
Few of the Edges rivals are what youd
call engaging to drive, but all go about
4 May 2016 33
Newcars
Ford Edge
TECH
Road signs are

displayed on the
dash, helping keep
you within limits
DISPLAY
10-inch display
is bright but a little
clunky to operate.
It features DAB
plus sat-nav
EQUIPMENT
Dual-zone climate
is standard,
with heated
and ventilated
seats also fitted
GEARBOX
The entry 178bhp

2.0-litre diesel
comes with a
six-speed manual
gearbox, but our
208bhp model
is auto only
their business in a more polished way.

The engine-gearbox combination is
slick, but it does feel a little hesitant
working its way through the ratios, which,
combined with the hefty kerbweight,
can make performance feel blunted.
The Edge is over two tonnes with a
couple of passengers on board, and you
can really feel it; acceleration is lethargic
even with 208bhp and 450Nm of torque.
But whats likely to matter more to buyers
is space and practicality, and here the

Edge begins to claw back some honour.
With the rear seats in place, the boot
measures in at 602 litres, which swells
to 1,788 litres if you drop the rear seats.
Thats more than any rival from Audi,
Mercedes or BMW, but that cavernous
load area does appear to have come at the
expense of rear passenger space. The back
isnt what youd called cramped, but given
the Edges significant size advantage
over the Q5 and GLC, there appears to be

little benefit for those sitting in the back.
Legroom is generous enough, but youd be
just as comfortable in the back of an Audi.
A bigger issue was the optional
panoramic roof fitted to our test car, which
noticeably impinged on headroom. As
bright and airy as it makes the cabin,
its probably not worth the sacrifice you
have to make in terms of practicality.
Despite size, there isnt as much rear legroom as youd expect. Performance is lethargic
34 4 May 2016
Verdict
THE Edge is a perfectly adequate
SUV it neither disappoints nor
excels in any particular area. But
at this price its vulnerable to a
wealth of talent, in particular the
BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC, both
of which are on a different level
in terms of ability, desirability and
quality. The Edge looks the part
and is packed with kit, but you
need much more than that to
challenge in this competitive class.
Newcars
Essentials
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
26,630
2.0-litre 4cyl turbo
228bhp/320Nm
Six-speed manual,
front-wheel drive
6.6 seconds
150mph
43.5mpg
152g/km
ON SALE Now
CONVERTIBLE MINIs roof goes up or
down in 18 seconds, and the car can track

how long youve driven for with it down.
Optional rain warner system alerts you by
phone or via the screen if the weather is
going to turn while youve got the top down
PRACTICALITY The John Cooper Works
Convertible offers a 215-litre boot with the

roof in place, yet that figure drops to 150
litres with the top down. Rear seats are
incredibly tight even children will struggle
to get comfortable behind tall adults
Circular theme gives JCWs cabin a retro feel, while JCW-specific seats and trim add sporty touch; 6.5-inch central screen is standard
Sam Naylor
S
Sam
Sam_Naylor@dennis.co.uk
@SamNaylor_AE
MINI has already impressed us with its

Cooper S Convertible, but now the even
hotter John Cooper Works model has joined
the drop-top range. Theres no mistaking it,
thanks to the array of large air intakes on
the front bumper, plus there are unique
alloys. The red highlights on the grille and
JCW badges also hint at its potential.
The Convertible gets a big power boost
over the already spicy Cooper S up from
189bhp to 228bhp. Thats the same as the
JCW hatch, but due to extra strengthening,
the drop-top is three-tenths slower from
0-62mph than the hatch, taking 6.6 seconds.
Thats still 0.6 seconds faster than the
Cooper S Convertible, though.
Auto versions are slightly faster in the
benchmark sprint; the hatch takes 6.1
seconds and the Convertible 6.5 seconds.
Both transmissions are six-speed, and
the auto version costs 1,575 more.
The box is slick and easy to use, plus it
features a rev-matching system, which blips
36 4 May 2016
the throttle on downshifts for you. It makes

for a smoother experience in normal
driving, as well as when youre pushing on.
The engine is at its best in the mid-range,
with lots of torque and a fruity soundtrack,
but that does make the top end feel a little
flat. Lift off, and youll get the familiar
MINI pops and bangs from the exhaust.
On a twisty road, the JCW comes into its
element. The steering is communicative,
quick and in Sport mode well weighted.
That opens up the exhausts for more noise
as well as stiffening up the suspension.
The MINI remains flat in corners in all
modes, too, yet some may find the firmer
ride a bit much. On smooth European roads,
the ride was acceptable, but things may well
change when we have a go in the UK.
Brakes are sharp and powerful, although
they could do with a bit more feel through
the pedal and its under braking where
the extra weight of the Convertible really

becomes apparent. At all other times, you
might not notice the difference, as the car
seems almost as light on its feet as the hatch.
The driving position is good, yet some of
the controls feel awkwardly placed. The
central armrest gets in the way when youre
shifting gears, too. Youll find the usual MINI
design cues inside, with the large circular
central display matching the rev counter
behind the steering wheel. Plus, the door
handles, air vents and gearstick all match.
JCW-specific seats and dash trim add
a sporty touch to the cabin. Just like the
Cooper S model, its all suitably upmarket
inside, and its got plenty of character;
theres no other car with an interior like it.
Theres plenty of space in the front and
very little in the back. Even children sitting
behind a tall driver will feel cramped, but
move the front seats forward and its just
On a twisty road, the JCW comes into its element.

Steering is communicative, quick and well weighted
MINIJC
FIRST DRIVE Hot John C
NEED TO
KNOW
JCW roof can

be operated at
speeds of up to
18mph; it can
also be stowed
via a button
on the key fob
CWConvertible
Newcars
Performance
Running costs
0-62mph/top speed
43.5mpg (official)
6.6 seconds/150mph
47 fill-up
Cooper Works model joins MINIs drop-top range, and we get behind the wheel
about big enough. The soft-top roof, which
can be specified as a Union Jack if youre
feeling patriotic, takes 18 seconds to raise
or lower. It can do this at speeds of up to
18mph, or via the key fob from outside.
Having the roof down hinders boot
space reducing capacity from 215 to
150 litres. Still, theres nothing like
having the top down on a summers
day, and it also allows you to hear the
brash exhaust note better. At high
speeds, the wind buffeting does start
to become a problem, although you
can fit a deflector over the rear seats
to combat this. Wind noise isnt too
bad with the windows up, either.
The MINI JCW Convertible has a big
problem, though, and thats its hefty price
tag. It costs 26,630 without any options
boxes ticked; the Mazda MX-5 is several
thousand pounds cheaper, a lot
more fun to drive and more comfortable,
while still offering an open-top experience.
Verdict
THE MINI JCW Convertible is fast,
fun, and great to drive. Itll
undoubtedly appeal to those
looking for a dynamic, stylish
drop-top, and while theres not
much space in the back, there
are few rivals that offer the
same package of performance,
practicality and wind-in-the-hair
thrills. The price is a big issue,
though. If you really do want
the extra focus that a JCW
model brings, we cant help
thinking that youd be better
off opting for the hatchback.
4 May 2016 37
Newcars
Where the GLE is really starting to

feel its age is in the way it drives
MercedesGLE350d
FIRST UK DRIVE Rebadged, revamped ML-Class arrives in Britain and we try V6 diesel version
James Batchelor
James_Batchelor@dennis.co.uk
@JRRBatchelor
FEW car makers know how to make

money from SUVs as well as Mercedes.
The German giant has been selling a
range of fashionable 4x4s for years, and
as the recent New York Motor Show
demonstrated its working hard on
filling the newest niche of them all: the
coup-SUV. We saw the GLC Coup in
the States and drove the sleek GLE Coup
late last year, but now weve been given
the keys to its more practical sibling.
Calling the car new is stretching it a bit,
though. It wears a badge that subscribes
to Mercedes new naming structure one
that aligns it with the E-Class family.
Essentially, however, the GLE is a heavy
refresh of the ML-Class the brands first
proper exploration into the world of SUVs.
As with any refresh, the car has had
some cosmetic surgery. At the front, theres
a more curvaceous look, with swept-back
38 4 May 2016
headlights, a larger and more imposing

grille, new bumpers with larger vents and
a more rounded bonnet. Along the sides
its business as usual (save for some fresh
wheel designs), while the back has more
modern-looking lights and a new bumper.
The distinctive C-pillar, with windows
that wrap around the rear end, is left over
from the old ML, though. Clearly Mercedes
deemed it was a classy design feature that
had to stay, despite the cars new name.
On the inside, there are even fewer
differences; a highlight is the addition
of Mercedes tablet infotainment screen
nestled between the air vents. Its linked
to a rotary controller and smartphone-like
touchpad on the centre console, bringing
the GLE in line with rest of the range. It
controls Mercedes COMAND system,
but it isnt quite as easy or intuitive
to use as BMWs brilliant iDrive system.
The engine range has been tweaked, too,
and theres a choice of petrols and diesels,
plus a plug-in GLE 500e hybrid. But in
Mercedes GLE 350d
Newcars
Otis Clay
Essentials
Mercedes GLE 350d
4MATIC AMG Line
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
Cabin is well constructed and has

plenty of equipment. Its roomy all
round, and boot is usefully large
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
56,280
3.0-litre V6 diesel
258bhp, 620Nm
Nine-speed auto,
four-wheel drive
7.1 seconds
140mph
42.8mpg
179g/km
ON SALE Now
EQUIPMENT Theres a vast options

list, with desirable features such as
our cars panoramic roof. This can bump
up price considerably, although standard
kit levels on entry-level Sport are good
NEED TO
KNOW
Performance
0-62mph/top speed
If the GLEs looks

are a little too
conservative
for you, theres
a Coup version
which rivals
the BMW X6
DRIVING Despite new looks, GLE
7.1 seconds/140mph
really shows its age on road; the body

rolls and the steering isnt particularly
sharp. And even in the comfort setting,
the air-suspension isnt that soft
Running costs
42.8mpg (official)
102 fill-up
V6 diesel is punchy and refined, while

nine-speed auto box delivers slick shifts
reality, its the diesels thatll interest most
and the six-cylinder 3.0-litre V6 350d is
our top pick. With 258bhp and 620Nm,
its punchy, smooth and a good deal more
appealing to drive than the four-cylinder
diesel in the entry-level 201bhp 250d.
Whichever diesel you go for, youll get
a new nine-speed automatic gearbox,
meaning changes are fast and slick.
Mercedes claims an average of 42.8mpg,
and while its 179g/km of CO2 sounds fine
in isolation, BMWs X5 xDrive30d emits only
156g/km. That equates to two lower road
tax bands and an annual saving of 45
on VED, not to mention the cash youll
save if you run one as a company car.
Where the GLE really is starting to feel
its age, though, is in the way it drives.
The GLEs closest rival, the X5, manages to
combine fun and involving handling with
the ability to cope with some light off-road

terrain. The GLE has an impressive range of
off-road modes and seems tough when
tackling mud and rocks, but back on the
tarmac it feels a bit old. The steering is numb
and the body sways around on twisty roads.
And while our AMG Line has standard-fit airsuspension, the GLE still fidgets around and
crashes into large potholes and big bumps.
For some, the fact that the GLE
feels a little old wont matter. While the
dashboards design is a bit conservative
compared with Mercedes newer cars, its
well made and all models have a strong kit
list. Entry-level Sport variants, for instance,
get LED headlights, a parking camera and
sat-nav, while more desirable AMG Line
cars add 20-inch wheels, a more aggressive
body kit and heated sports seats.
Its roomy up front, and in the back theres
space for three adults. The boot is usefully
large its noticeably more spacious than a
BMW X5s but theres no seven-seat option.
Verdict
THE GLE wears a new badge, while
its styling has been refreshed and
the interior upgraded. The engines
are strong, its roomy and a new
nine-speed automatic gearbox
improves the driving experience.
Overall, its a welcome improvement
on the old ML-Class, though
unfortunately the updates
dont really go far enough.
Newer rivals have made great
advances in terms of fuel economy
and driver involvement, and the
GLE is starting to feel just a little old.
4 May 2016 39
Newcars
Lotus Elise Cup 250
Essentials
Lotus Elise Cup 250
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
0-60mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
45,600
1.8-litre 4cyl supercharged
243bhp/250Nm
Six-speed manual,
rear-wheel drive
3.9 seconds
154mph
37mpg (est)
175g/km (est)
ON SALE Now
CABIN
Stripped-out
interior which
doesnt feature a
stereo or carpet
in the footwells
helps to keep
Elises weight down
STYLING Optional Carbon Pack adds

a huge rear wing, front splitter, side sills
and a diffuser, all of which are trimmed
in carbon fibre. It costs an additional
4,000, but shaves 10kg from the cars
kerbweight and really boosts its looks
EQUIPMENT All models come with
lightweight 16-inch alloy wheels shod

in Yokohama road-legal track-day tyres
(left). The Elise Cup 250 is available
as a roadster as standard, while
a hard-top version is available too
Steve Sutcliffe
mail@autoexpress.co.uk
THE Cup 250 is the fastest roadgoing

Lotus Elise ever made. The 250 in its
name doesnt refer to its power output
(243bhp at 7,200rpm), but instead to its
torque figure. This particular Elise has
a whopping 250Nm of twisting action,
available between 3,500-5,000rpm.
That means it has a range of performance
that, so far, no other Elise has got near.
Focused minimalism is the phrase coined
by marketeers to describe the intent behind
this thundering new range-topper, and for
once, the hyperbole fits the product perfectly.
The 250 is lighter (931kg with fluids),
faster and more powerful than the Cup 220
it supersedes. It covers 0-60mph in just 3.9
seconds and has a top speed of 154mph.
Remove its new soft-top hood (the previous
Cup 220 was a hard-top only), and that
drops to 149mph, which is still impressive.
Also new are a set of super-sticky
Yokohama track-day tyres that are still
perfectly usable on conventional roads.
With this rubber fitted, the 1.8-litre Cup 250
40 4 May 2016
LotusE
FIRST DRIVE Fastest-e
has managed to lap the Lotus test

track only a couple of seconds slower
than the far more powerful and more
expensive Evora 400. And thats
because it has the grip, balance
and composure to go with its
new-found straight-line pace.
As youd expect, the Elise makes a
great track-day companion, with huge
precision and a range of limits that require
true skill and commitment to fully unlock.
The brakes are also excellent, offering
bags of feel through the middle pedal.
The extra torque is where the newcomer
really distances itself from the old model,
though. It pulls the Cup 250 along with
much more energy at low revs, and when
the power kicks in, youre left with a
seamless burst of acceleration in each and
every gear. Switch the little gearlever up to
the next ratio, and you can do it all over
again smiling every inch of the way.
On the road, the Lotus is surprisingly
civilised, even though its interior has
been stripped right back to the bare
bones in order to save weight. Theres
no stereo and the footwell doesnt feature
Lotus Elise Cup 250
EliseCup250
ever production Elise is thrilling to drive but expensive

Elise offers huge amounts
of grip in corners, while
body is perfectly balanced
Performance
Running costs
0-60mph/top speed
37mpg (est)
3.9 seconds/154mph
43 fill-up
any carpet in true back-to-basics style.

The Elise rides relatively well despite its
stiffened suspension, and the unassisted
steering remains a thing of wonder
providing more feel than youll find in
just about any other car on the market.
However, such mighty ability on road and
track doesnt come cheap. In standard trim,
the Cup 250 costs 45,600, but add the
Carbon Pack, and the price rises to just shy
of 50,000. That puts the Elise into Porsche
Boxster territory, at which point you begin
to wonder how many people will take the
plunge, no matter how good it is to drive.
The truth is, though, the Elise is a different
prospect to a Porsche. Its so much more
focused toward the driving enthusiast one
doubts whether anyone thinking of buying
one would seriously consider an alternative.
Unassisted steering
remains a thing of
wonder with more
feel than any other car
Newcars
Verdict
THE fastest-ever Elise is expensive,
sure, but for those who fully
appreciate what driving is all about,
there is nothing quite like the Cup
250. This Lotus is a proper road-legal
track-day weapon a car that you
happily endure on your way to a
circuit in order to relish what it
can do upon arrival. And when
you do get there, itll no doubt
demolish pretty much anything
that turns up this side of 500bhp.
It might not be to all tastes, but
the committed few will find the
Cup 250 perfect for their needs.
4 May 2016 41
Newcars
SEAT Mii FR Line
Sam_
Sam_Naylor@dennis.co.uk
SamNaylor_AE
THE SEAT Mii has been one of our

favourite city cars ever since it was
launched in 2012 and now the brands
added this new FR Line model to the range.
It gets a fresh, sporty look, featuring
16-inch alloys, special decals, FR Line badges
and grey door mirrors. The interior receives
an upgrade, too, with a red and black glossy
finish on the dash, sportier-looking seats
and red stitching on the steering wheel.
The revamp spruces up the Mii nicely, as
it always looked more awkward than its two
VW Group cousins, the Skoda Citigo and VW
up! The wheels are smart, as are the black
decals along the sides, while the seats are
comfortable and the black dash looks smart.
Theres plenty of standard kit, with sat-nav,
an SD card slot, air-con and foglights. The
lack of a USB port is a shame on a car such
as this, especially as theres Bluetooth for
easy music streaming. Charging your phone
will require an adapter for the 12V port.
The only other change for this FR Line
model is a slightly stiffer suspension set-up.
That means theres a bit less body roll
when cornering, but the trade-off is a less
comfortable ride on poorly surfaced roads.
In truth, the changes are very minor and
most buyers wont notice the difference.
The standard Mii is already good to drive,
and a firmer ride hasnt changed that.
Slick
The slick gearshift, well weighted steering

and characterful three-cylinder engine all
add to the driving experience. This higherpowered 74bhp car doesnt feel much quicker
than the base model, so you wont feel shortchanged going for the 59bhp version instead.
Youll get a few more miles out of a tank,
though, as it returns 62.8mpg compared to
our test cars 61.4mpg. For many, however,
itll be the potential for cheaper insurance
that will draw them to the slower car.
The Mii FR Line is as practical as ever, with
the boxy shape allowing a lot of room inside
despite the dinky exterior dimensions. The
boot is a decent size at 251 litres, and the
rear seats fold down to create a total of 951
litres if you need to get big items such as
suitcases or flat-pack furniture on board.
Space in the back is unchanged, too, with
enough room for two adults at a squeeze.
You get a little more kit than in a Citigo
Monte Carlo, but the SEAT does cost slightly
more to buy. Both cars offer great value for
money, though, feeling much more grownup than rivals of around the same price
in terms of both the driving
experience and
interior
quality.
Pete Gibson
Sam Naylor
S
SEATMiiFRLine
61.4mpg (official)
37 fill-up
FIRST UK DRIVE Sporty new trim adds some extra air to city car
Essentials
SEAT Mii FR Line
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
0-60mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
11,065
1.0-litre 3cyl petrol
74bhp/95Nm
Five-speed manual,
front-wheel drive
13.2 seconds
106mph
61.4mpg
106g/km
ON SALE Now
PRACTICALITY Despite sporty
additions, the Miis boot remains at 251

litres among the best in the class.
Back seat space is pretty good, too
EQUIPMENT FR Line models come
with 16-inch alloy wheels, parking

sensors, DAB radio and six-speaker
stereo plus LED daytime running lights
Verdict
Sporty styling cues are reflected in the cabin with red and black
glossy dashboard, sportier seats and red stitching on the wheel
42 4 May 2016
Running costs
THE SEAT Mii has always been good

fun to drive, relatively practical and
cheap to run. This FR Line version
doesnt change any of that, but
adds a dash of sporty character
to the formula, too. You get a load
of equipment for the money, and
it matches up well with Skodas
similarly specced Citigo Monte
Carlo. If youre searching for a
smart-looking city car with bags
of personality, this could well be it.
Newcars

Otis Clay
Dean Gibson
Dean_Gibson@dennis.co.uk
THE all-new Ford Mustang has caused

quite a stir in the UK. Were fans of the
coup here at Auto Express, because it
delivers a satisfying driving experience on
UK roads at a competitive price. But is the
Convertible as attractive as the Fastback
version? We tried an EcoBoost model
with an automatic gearbox to find out.
First impressions are good, because aside
from the fabric roof, the Convertible looks
largely identical to the coup. You get the
same retro-modern design, with a smattering
of galloping horse logos to remind you of
what youre driving the only Ford badge of
note is on the windscreen behind the rearview mirror. The interior design, meanwhile,
has a pleasingly retro look about it.
Like the coup, the Convertible feels like
its been built down to a price inside, but its
no worse than a Focus, and its easy to
overlook its budget feel when you consider
how much car you get for your money.
The Convertible range matches the
Fastback line-up, so standard kit is
generous on EcoBoost models, with 19-inch
rims, xenon lights and a large touchscreen.
You unlatch the top with a cumbersome
grab handle, then a press of the switch on
the windscreen header rail opens the roof in
12 seconds. It closes again in 10 seconds,
but that handle needs a hefty twist to
ensure the top is latched back in place.
Like some rivals, you can open and close
the roof while the car is moving, although
it can only be done at walking pace.
What is impressive is the Mustang
Convertibles refinement with the roof in
place. The multi-layer top is well insulated
from wind and road noise, and the car is
almost as quiet as the coup at motorway
Cabin has some questionable materials, yet the retro styling is appealing. Rear seats
are a squeeze for tall adults, and no wind deflector means theres a lot of buffeting
Ford Mu
FIRST UK DRIVE Our
NEED TO
KNOW
Adding the auto

gearbox moves
the Mustang
Convertible up
from road tax
Band I to Band K,
so costs an extra
65 per year
Essentials
2.3 EcoBoost auto
Price:
Engine:
Power/torque:
Transmission:
0-62mph:
Top speed:
Economy:
CO2:
35,995
2.3-litre 4cyl turbo
313bhp/432Nm
Six-speed auto,
rear-wheel drive
5.8 seconds
145mph
28.8mpg
225g/km
ON SALE Now
44 4 May 2016
PRACTICALITY Ford has had to
accommodate the folding roof into the

Mustang Convertibles layout, so boot
space is 76 litres down on the Fastbacks
capacity. Still, the 332-litre load area
is bigger than youll find in a Focus
EQUIPMENT The Convertible is almost
identical to the Fastback inside, with a retro

gearlever and switchgear. Key differences
are the large lever above your head that
releases the fabric top and the rocker switch
that operates the electric roof mechanism
speeds. Electric windows are standard,

although theres a single switch to lower
both rear windows, and the fronts dont
open automatically; you have to keep your
finger on the switch to open them fully.
Head off with the top down, and at low
speed theres only slight buffeting for
taller drivers, yet at motorway speeds,
the wind does blow back into the cabin,
especially around the seatbacks. Theres
no option to add a wind deflector over
the rear seats, so youll have to put up
with the breeze when you lower the roof.
On the move, the EcoBoost engine
has just enough power to deliver
brisk performance, although with a
kerbweight of close to 1,800kg,
theres a lot of car for the fourcylinder turbo engine to haul around.
The six-speed auto delivers fast shifts,
and while its ready to kick down a gear
at the slightest prod of the throttle,
there isnt any jerkiness. Put the box
into Sport mode, and you can take
manual control, but full automatic
mode better suits this cars character.
Unfortunately, lopping the roof off
the Mustang has amplified the negatives
of the driving experience. Like the
coup, the firm suspension is unsettled
by broken surfaces, and the added
flex in the body means the whole car
ustang Convertible
Newcars
Performance
0-62mph/top speed
5.8 seconds/145mph
Running costs
28.8mpg (official)
verdict on all-American drop-top with EcoBoost engine
64 fill-up
Mustang is sharp off

the mark, while auto
box delivers rapid shifts
Verdict
Its best to take it easy

in the Convertible,
and when you do, the
EcoBoost makes sense
shudders and shakes over bumpy roads.

Attack a corner, and you can feel the car
twist as the suspension loads up, while it
squats on to its rear quarters, only to be
unsettled again if you hit another bump.
Its not the most pleasant experience,
but at least the steering lets you know
whats going on beneath you. Instead,
its best to take it easy in the Mustang

Convertible, and when you do, the
EcoBoost makes a lot of sense.
However, while you get a sound
synthesiser thats designed to add
aural drama, its pretty insipid when
compared with the rumbling 5.0-litre V8
thats also available across the range.
THE Mustang Convertible is a

different animal to the Fastback
coup. Chopping the roof off has
given the Ford a wallowy ride and
the kind of soft-edged handling
youd expect from a US sports car.
However, once you accept that its not
the best-handling drop-top money
can buy, you can make the most of
the performance on offer from the
powerful yet refined EcoBoost
engine. The Mustang is a great
cruiser with the roof up or down, yet
the firm suspension means its not
the most comfortable on bumpy roads.
4 May 2016 45
Mahindra e2o
Newcars
Coming soon
RENAULT
ALPINE 2017
Alpine Vision concept

(left) marks return of
the sports car brand
and previews a midengined rival to the
Porsche Cayman.
SUPERMINIS
Mahindrae2o
Performance
0-50mph/top speed
18.0 seconds/63mph
FIRST DRIVE Successor to G-Wiz is better, but compromised

Lawrence Allan
Lawrence_Allan@dennis.co.uk
@LobAllan
THOSE familiar with congested city

centre streets will also be aware of
the G-Wiz a tiny electric quadricycle that
launched well before todays EV blitz. It
earned a reputation, but not a good one. It
was slow, crude and cramped, and because
it was never classified as a car it didnt
have to meet standard safety regulations.
Now Mahindra (the Indian tech giant that
bought the rights to the G-Wiz) has launched
a successor in the UK. Its called the e2o
and is significantly larger, heavier and faster
than the G-Wiz, so is required to meet the
same safety standards as any car on sale.
It comes with most of the safety kit weve
now become accustomed to; the entry-level
City model, starting from 12,995, gets two
airbags, ABS, ESP and Isofix points for the
rear seats. Our 15,995 Tech X model
adds heated leather seats, air-con, and a
touchscreen sat-nav with a reversing camera.
However, quality is mixed. It feels sturdy
enough, but the dash design looks cheap
and the plastics used arent anywhere
near the standard found in the likes of
Renaults electric supermini, the ZOE.
On the road, the e2o is undeniably
an improvement over the G-Wiz. The
42bhp electric motor provides adequate
performance up to 30mph, but while the
e2o can legally venture on to motorways,
we wouldnt advise it as it struggles
to gain momentum past 30mph.
Its quite noisy on the move, the
steering is vague and the claimed 80-mile
range drops rapidly the faster you go. At
least the fast charger allows you to fully
replenish the batteries in just 90 minutes.
Put simply, its much better than
the current crop of microcars, but
almost any other EV on the market
rides, handles and performs better.
Performance is adequate in the city,

but e2o struggles above 30mph
Ford Ka+
Ford Fiesta
Ford Fiesta ST200
Kia Rio
Mitsubishi Mirage facelift
Nissan Micra
Renault Twingo GT
Renault 5
SEAT Ibiza
SEAT Mii X-Perience
Smart ForTwo Brabus
Suzuki Swift
Suzuki Baleno
Volkswagen Polo
FAMILY CARS
Alfa Romeo Giulia

summer
Alfa Romeo Giulia Estate
2017
Fiat Tipo
September
Honda Civic
2017
Honda FCV
late 2016
Hyundai Ioniq
October
Kia Optima estate
summer
Jaguar XF Sportbrake
late 2017
MG5
2020
MINI Countryman
late 2016
Nissan Leaf
2017
Porsche Panamera
early 2017
Porsche Panamera estate
late 2017
Renault Mgane Sport Tourer autumn
Subaru Impreza
late 2016
Tesla Model 3
late 2017
Vauxhall Insignia
mid 2017
VauxhallInsigniaSportsTourer late 2017
Volkswagen Beetle Dune
May
Volkswagen Golf facelift
late 2016
Volkswagen XL3
2019
SPORTS CARS
Mahindra e2o TechX
NEED TO KNOW
Smartphone apps show

range and display
remaining charging time
Price: 15,995
(after Gov grant)
Engine: 15.5kWh e-motor,
lithium-ion battery
Power: 42bhp/91Nm
Transmission: Single-speed,
rear-wheel drive
0-50mph: 18.0 seconds
Top speed: 63mph
Range/CO2: 80 miles/0g/km
ON SALE Now
Verdict
IN isolation the Mahindra e2o has its plus points. It suits
crowded city streets, and is a safer, more comfortable
proposition than the G-Wiz. But theres no avoiding the
far greater appeal of polished small EVs like the Renault
ZOE. And anyone not committed to the green cause
would be better off with a cheaper, frugal city car, too.
summer
early 2017
June
2018
mid 2016
summer
mid 2016
late 2017
2017
late 2016
late 2016
2017
June
2017
Alfa 4C Quadrifoglio
late 2016
Aston Martin DB11
summer
Aston Martin V8 Vantage
2017
Aston Martin Vanquish
2018
Audi A5
September
Audi A9
2018
Audi RS4
late 2016
Audi TT RS
late 2016
Audi TT Sportback
2017
Audi TTQ
2017
Bentley Continental GT
2018
BMW i8 Plus
late 2016
BMW Z4
2017
Bugatti Chiron
autumn
Caterham sports car
2018
Ford GT
late 2016
Ford Mustang GT350
late 2016
Honda CR-Z
2017
Honda NSX
autumn
Hyundai i30 N
early 2017
Infiniti Q60
summer
Jaguar F-Type SVR
summer
Jaguar XE R
late 2016
Kia GT4 Stinger
2017
Lexus LC 500
late 2016
Maserati Alfieri
2017
Maserati Gran Turismo
late 2017
McLaren 540 C
summer
Mercedes-AMG C 43
summer
Mercedes-AMG E 43
summer
Mercedes-AMG GT four-door
2017
MG TF replacement
2020
MINI JCW Clubman
late 2017
Nissan Pulsar Nismo
2017
Peugeot 308 R HYbrid
2017
Peugeot 408 GT
2018
Porsche 718 Cayman
mid 2016
Porsche Mission E
2020
Porsche Pajun
2018
Renault Alpine
2017
Toyota FT-1 (Supra)
2017
TVR sports car
2018
Vauxhall sports car
2019
Volkswagen Golf R400
late 2016
Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8
2019
SUVs
Abarth 500X
2017
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
2017
Aston Martin DBX
2018
Audi Q2
August
Audi Q5
late 2016
Audi Q6
2018
Audi Q7 e-tron
late 2016
Audi Q8
2020
Audi RS Q2
2017
Bentley Bentayga Coup
late 2016
Bentley Bentayga Speed
late 2016
BMW 1 Series Sport Cross
2017
BMW i5
2017
BMW X2
spring 2017
BMW X3
late 2016
BMW X7
2018
Citroen Grand Cactus
2018
DS 3 SUV
2018
Ford Kuga facelift
late 2016
Infiniti QX30
summer
Jaguar Baby F-Pace
2018
Kia B-SUV
2018
Kia Niro Hybrid
summer
Lamborghini Urus
2018
Land Rover Defender
2018
Land Rover Discovery 5
early 2017
Maserati Levante
summer
Mazda CX-4
early 2017
Mazda large SUV
2017
Mercedes GLC Coup
late 2016
MG GS
summer
Mitsubishi ASX facelift
autumn
Mitsubishi Shogun
2017
Nissan Juke
summer 2018
Nissan Qashqai facelift
2017
Peugeot 2008
summer
Peugeot 3008
winter
Porsche Cayenne Coup
2017
Qoros 2 SUV
summer
Qoros 3 City SUV
2017
Renault Alaskan pick-up
late 2016
Renault Koleas
early 2017
Rolls-Royce Cullinan
2018
SEAT Ateca
September
SEAT Ibiza SUV
late 2017
Skoda Coup SUV
2017
Skoda Kodiaq
2017
Skoda Yeti
2018
SsangYong Tivoli XLV
late 2016
Suzuki Ignis
spring 2017
Tesla Model X
summer
Toyota C-HR
summer
Vauxhall Mokka X
summer
Vauxhall large SUV
2018
Volkswagen Tiguan XL
2017
Volkswagen Golf SUV
2018
Volkswagen T-Cross
2018
Volkswagen Touareg
2018
Volvo XC40
2017
Volvo XC60
2018
PEOPLE MOVERS
Renault Scenic
Vauxhall Zafira X
summer
late 2016
CABRIOLETS
Audi R8 Spyder
BMW i8 Spyder
BMW M2 Convertible
Fiat 124 Spider
Infiniti QX50
Jaguar XE Convertible
Mercedes C-Class Cabriolet
MercedesS-Class Cabriolet
LUXURY CARS
Alpina B7
Audi A8
BMW 5 Series
Infiniti Q80
Lexus LF FC
Rolls-Royce Phantom
Volkswagen Phaeton
Volvo S90
Volvo V90
Volvo S90 Polestar
late 2016
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2017
summer
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2017
summer
summer
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early 2017
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late 2016
2018
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www.autoexpress.co.uk/driverpower
4 May 2016 47
Road tests
58
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SEAT IBIZA CUPRA

vs VW POLO GTI
Pocket rockets go headto-head to see which has
more smiles per mile.
Judgement day
The waiting is over... Jaguars new F-Pace is here, but is it
good enough to go straight to the top of the SUV class?
We pitch it against rivals from Land Rover and BMW
Pictures: Pete Gibson Location: Bruntingthorpe, Leicestershire
ITS the moment of truth for what is

possibly the most important car in
Jaguars history, the F-Pace. While the firm
has all bases covered when it comes to
sports cars and sharp-handling saloons,
this is its first-ever SUV, which thrusts it
into an extremely competitive market.
The F-Pace will need to be pretty special
to have a fighting chance of coming out
on top, so for this first test weve chosen
two highly capable 2.0-litre diesel rivals.
First up is sister company Land Rovers
Discovery Sport. While both the Jag and
Disco are powered by the same Ingenium
48 4 May 2016
diesel, the latter is a more conventional,

practical SUV. However, the Land Rover is
still a tough rival, and will put the F-Paces
premium qualities under the microscope.
Our second competitor is the X3. Its
been around for a few years now, but
the BMW still sets the benchmark for
focused handling in the SUV sector,
and itll be a stern test for the F-Pace.
Can the newcomer continue Jaguars
renaissance as a premium brand to
be reckoned with? Or is branching
out into the SUV market simply a step
too far for the British manufacturer?
Jaguar F-Pace 2.0d (180) R-Sport AWD
Price: 40,360 Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbodiesel, 178bhp 0-60mph: 9.4 seconds
Test economy: 37.9mpg/8.3mpl CO2: 139g/km Annual road tax: 130
LIVING WITH A...

MAZDA MX-5
LIVING WITH A...

SKODA SUPERB ESTATE
Sporty roadster arrives

on Auto Express fleet
just in time for summer.
Big wagon is proving its

worth as a family car
and its economical, too.
BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport
Land Rover Discovery Sport HSE Auto
4 May 2016 49
Road tests
Jaguar F-Pace vs rivals
MODEL TESTED: Jaguar F-Pace 2.0d R-Sport AWD auto

PRICE: 40,360 ENGINE: 2.0-litre 4cyl, 178bhp
JAGUARS quest to grow sales is on a roll,

but while its stunning F-Type sports car
and smart XE and XF saloons have helped bring
the brands image up to date, the lack of an SUV
in the line-up has been glaringly obvious.
The new F-Pace 4x4 now plugs that gap in
the companys range. Prices start at 34,170,
and here we test the 40,360 2.0d R-Sport
model tted with an automatic gearbox. Can the
newcomer go straight to the top of the class?
Styling 4.4/5
THE F-Pace SUVs design remains faithful to that
of the original C-X17 concept rst revealed back in
2013 at the Frankfurt Motor Show and thats most
denitely a positive thing. An upright, bluff nose and
mesh grille, along with the narrow headlights, give it
a sporty appearance, but despite its vast proportions
(the Jaguar is the longest and widest car here), its
hunkered proportions help disguise its bulk.
It helps that the F-Pace is the newest SUV on the
block, whereas the more utilitarian-looking Land
Rover Discovery Sport and conventional BMW X3
are familiar shapes. However, the Jaguars coup-like
prole and narrow window line make it the most
aggressive-looking model in the trio. From the rear
this R-Sport versions bespoke bumper gives it a
sharper look compared to the rest of the range, while
the F-Type-inspired tail-lights break up the tailgate.
Plenty of gloss-black trim for the front end, doors
and roof rails gives a subtly sporty look, along with
our test cars 1,200 optional gloss-black 20-inch alloys.
In fact, despite the F-Pace being the brands rst foray
into the 4x4 sector, the car is recognisably a Jaguar.
Open the door and climb inside, and youll nd its
much the same. The dash is similar to the smaller XE
saloons, with the facia arcing round from the two
widest air vents, giving a wraparound feel. And as
with the XE there are some ergonomic issues and
questions over material quality in areas, particularly
the plastics used lower down in the cabin.
However, the centre console is smart, with the same
rotary gear selector as the Disco and clean climatecontrol layout. Theres also a widescreen eight-inch
infotainment system with JLRs latest multimedia
interface; a 12.3-inch screen is a 1,200 option.
The amount of equipment just about matches its
Discovery Sport cousin. Although it costs 560 more
than the Land Rover, the Jaguar gets everything youd
expect from a premium SUV, including sat-nav,
Bluetooth, DAB, heated leather seats, cruise control
and autonomous braking. However, while parking
sensors are also standard, a reversing camera is 355,
whereas Land Rover owners get this as standard.
Driving 4.6/5
JAGUAR could have turned to sister brand Land Rover
for help with its rst SUV, but instead its developed
its own platform for the F-Pace. The car shares some
of its architecture with the XE and XF, meaning it feels
remarkably car-like to drive. More importantly, the Jag
uses plenty of lightweight aluminium in its structure,
so the Ingenium diesel doesnt feel overwhelmed,
despite those bulky external dimensions.
Even so, the Jaguar was no match for the more
powerful BMW at the track. Despite strong traction
off the line, the F-Pace completed the 0-60mph sprint
in 9.4 seconds, which was six-tenths slower than the
X3. The Jaguar closed the gap during our in-gear
50 4 May 2016
Testers notes
Our car featured a new option for Jaguar

Active Key. It works with a digital bracelet that
acts as a key for the F-Pace, letting you lock
the vehicle from your wrist with the regular
key inside it. This cuts down on the potential
for losing your key if youre exploring the great
outdoors. At 300 its not a cheap option,
but for tech fans it brings bragging rights
compared
par to even conventional keyless entry.
Jame
James Disdale Road test editor
assessments, thanks in no small part to its healthy

430Nm of torque and the well chosen ratios of its
smooth and responsive eight-speed auto gearbox.
Away from the track there was little to separate
our trio, with each car delivering brisk, reassuring
overtaking pace. The Jaguars 2.0-litre diesel responds
crisply to the throttle and delivers a surprisingly
throaty note when extended, yet its quieter at idle
and a cruise than the BMW. The box also delivers well
timed auto changes and doesnt shift down as often
on the motorway as the Land Rovers nine-speeder.
As with its rivals, wheel-mounted paddles give you
full manual control for an extra layer of involvement.
However, the F-Pace really comes into its own on a
twisting back road. As with its saloon and sports car
cousins, it benets from quick and accurate steering
that helps deliver impressive agility. Theres also bags
of grip, meaning its possible to hustle the Jaguar
through corners with greater condence than either
rival. And while this high-rider rolls a little, body
control is excellent and it ows down the road with
surprising composure. Few SUVs are as fun or capable.
Yet this engaging driving experience doesnt come
at the expense of comfort. Theres very little road and
wind noise, plus the ride is supple and controlled
where the BMW in particular is rm and dgety.
Jaguar F-P
Ownership 4.0/5
JAGUAR may have slipped four places to sixth overall
in our 2016 Driver Power satisfaction survey, but this
was still far better than BMWs result of 15th, and at
the opposite end of the table to Land Rover in 22nd.
The brand also scored in the top three for ride quality,
performance and ease of driving; as the F-Pace shares
its underpinnings and engines with the rest of the
range, wed expect similar results for the SUV.
Safety is strong, too. Although Euro NCAP hasnt
yet tested the F-Pace, six airbags, lane departure
warning and auto braking are standard, so
wed expect a competitive result. Theres also 4WD
to lean on for extra traction in slippy conditions.
Running costs 3.7/5

THE Jaguar and Land Rover share the same engine,
but at 109kg less than the Discovery Sport, the F-Pace
recorded a stronger result at the pumps, at 37.9mpg.
Identical CO2 emissions of 139g/km plus its higher
price mean the Jaguar will be the costlier car to run
for higher-rate business users, at 4,339 per year.
However, this is only marginally more than
the Land Rover (61), while the cleaner BMW
undercuts it by a slightly more substantial 191.
Road tests
Styling
Handsome new F-Paces clever body
styling counters its SUV bulk. New 300
optional Active Key takes conventional
keyless entry into the next generation
Pace
!
CO2/tax
Practicality
Performance
Braking
Running costs
139g/km
Boot (seats up/down)
0-60/30-70mph
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
37.9mpg (on test)
130 or 27%
650/1,740 litres
9.4/9.4 seconds
40.6/31.3/8.6m
64 fill-up
Interior
Practicality 4.2/5
Cabin features
all the best Jag
styling cues,
with a smart
centre console,
premium kit
and plenty
of passenger
and boot space
PRACTICALITY is the Land Rovers strong suit, but

although the Jaguar cant quite match its cousin for
versatility, its 650-litre boot eclipses the BMWs
550-litre boot. In fact, the Jaguar equals the X3s
bigger brother, the X5, when it comes to load volume.
Passenger space in the rear is acceptable, too.
Despite the narrow window opening theres plenty
of light, and because you sit low in the car the coup
rooine doesnt affect headroom too much. This
means that even tall adults will be comfortable.
Legroom is fractionally tighter than in the Disco,
and although the F-Paces seats fold 40:20:40, theres
no sliding rear bench. Storage is good, however,
despite the interiors sportier, cocooning feel.
Testers notes
From the A-pillar forwards, the F-Pace

borrows heavily from the XE and XF. That
means a more traditional longitudinal engine
layout and double-wishbone suspension.
These giv
give sharper, more car-like handling.
Dean Gibson Deputy road test ed.
4 May 2016 51
Road tests
MODEL TESTED: Land Rover Discovery Sport

THE Land Rover Discovery Sport is our current

class favourite, as we crowned it Best Compact
SUV in our 2015 New Car Awards. Combining cool
looks with a smart interior, seven-seat versatility
and ne driving dynamics, the big Brit has it all.
Furthermore, last years addition of Land Rovers
new Ingenium diesel engine (shared with the F-Pace)
has only broadened the cars appeal. Currently its
the only engine available, and we sample it here
in a mid-spec HSE model with a nine-speed
automatic gearbox. This weighs in at 39,800.
Styling 4.0/5
YOU only have to glance at the Discovery Sport to
conrm its a Land Rover product. All of the brands
design language is present and correct, from the
raised edges of the clamshell bonnet to the colourcoordinated oating roof, while the cars bold lines
are inspired by the upmarket Range Rover Sport.
The rounded nose and slim grille are pure Evoque,
as are the black wheelarch trims. The headlamps
feature crosshair-style LED daytime running lights
and the tail-lamps get a similar treatment. Theres
a mix of body-coloured and black window pillars
in a nod to the Freelander it replaced, and the
roof subtly curves back to a high-set rear end.
As in the Evoque, you can personalise the
Discovery Sport with a contrast roof (500) and
different wheel designs. Pick a bold colour such as
our test cars Phoenix Orange metallic nish, and the
Land Rover stands out as much as the sleeker Jaguar.
Inside, the Land Rover family theme continues.
The climate controls, dash and switchgear are all
taken from the Evoque, but thats no bad thing
as it helps give the cabin an upmarket feel,
with a robust edge. The feel of the materials
is top-notch, while overall build quality is solid
although rough roads caused our test cars
sliding middle row of seats to squeak and rattle.
Go for the auto model, and you get a rotary gear
selector that rises from the centre console, with gemlike markers on the dials carried over from the Evoque.
Land Rovers infotainment system is a highlight
inside. The eight-inch, high-res screen has a userfriendly interface, with clear labels and a responsive
touchscreen, but no Apple CarPlay option.
Theres full 3D mapping, too, while the simple
address entry makes the standard sat-nav a breeze to
use. Even better, its due for an upgrade later this year,
when it will receive a similar system to the F-Pace.
Driving 4.3/5
LAST year, the already excellent Discovery Sport was
given a boost in the form of Jaguar Land Rovers 2.0litre Ingenium diesel. Its the same unit as in the F-Type,
but the Discos heftier kerbweight meant that it was
slower than its relative at the test track. It needed a
leisurely 10.0 seconds for the 0-60mph sprint, where
its nine-speed gearbox shifted up more times than
the eight-ratio units of its rivals. It also trailed the
Jaguar and BMW during our in-gear assessments.
In the real world, though, the Discovery gives very
little away to its rivals here. With 430Nm of torque at
only 1,750rpm, the Land Rovers smooth turbodiesel
pulls strongly from low revs, while the nine-speed
auto serves up smooth shifts, responding crisply to
the throttle and steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Despite its rich off-road history, the Discovery is
remarkably accomplished on tarmac. Its steering
52 4 May 2016
Testers notes
Unlike the Jaguar and BMW, the Land Rover isnt

yet available with adaptive dampers. The hi-tech
kit is due to be added to the options list later this
year, but its strange that its taken this long, as the
brands MagneRide system has been tted to the
mechanically similar Range Rover Evoque since
2011. Its a shame the Discovery has gone without,
because the current cars rm ride undermines
an otherwise rened and comfortable package.
Jame
isnt as quick as the F-Paces, but its direct, well

weighted and precise, allowing you to accurately
place the car on the road round bends.
The combination of torque vectoring and a
multi-link rear axle boosts agility, while the mud and
snow tyres deliver remarkably strong grip. Despite
its high-riding stance, the Land Rover resists roll
well, and wayward body movements are kept in check.
The trade-off for this handling composure is a rm
low-speed ride, which dgets and thuds over potholes
and ridges. However, it settles down as speeds rise,
plus wind and road noise is well suppressed.
Where the Land Rover steals a march over the
F-Pace and X3 is off the beaten track. It has better
ground clearance, and the front and rear overhangs
are shorter and higher, so steep slopes are easily
negotiated. Also, its Terrain Response system
can adapt the four-wheel-drives traction control
to suit different conditions, helping the car go
further than most owners would dare to take it.
Ownership 3.5/5
Land Rover
THE Discovery Sport has been on sale for a few

months now, and it seems that everything is going
well. The latest Ingenium engine is used in an
array of Land Rover and Jaguar products, as are
the electronics, and weve not heard of any real horror
stories in either. If there are issues, then based on
past experience with its other cars, JLR should keep its
dealers and customers informed of software updates.
Unfortunately, those franchises dont have a great
reputation they nished 22nd out of 32 in our Driver
Power 2016 dealer survey. A major criticism was their
poor value for money, although a xed-price servicing
pack should take the sting out of maintenance.
Running costs 3.2/5

AT 39,800, the Discovery Sport HSE is 560 cheaper
than the F-Pace, but standard kit is at a similar level.
Both cars also boast the same claimed CO2 emissions,
so its the cheaper Land Rover thats a more costeffective choice for business users although
by only a matter of pounds over the course of a year.
Theres little to separate the Brits when it
comes to residuals, too, with both models retaining
more than 51 per cent of their new value after three
years. Land Rover is just above its rivals for
maintenance, as its 499 ve-year service pack
undercuts BMWs similar scheme by 26.
The only real disappointment is the Discos fuel
economy. Despite stop/start and a nine-speed auto,
the Ingenium engine returned a mere 33.7mpg.
Road tests
!
CO2/tax
Practicality
Performance
Braking
Running costs
139g/km
0-60/30-70mph
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
33.7mpg (on test)
130 or 27%
981/1,698 litres
10.0/10.3 seconds
49.5/34.4/11.0m
58 fill-up
r Discovery Sport
On and off-road
Land Rovers smart styling is inspired by
that of its Range Rover Sport big brother. Solid
all-terrain heritage pays dividends off-tarmac,
while on-road handling is accomplished, too
Interior
Practicality 4.5/5
Land Rovers
cabin has an
upmarket feel
with a robust
edge. Quality
is top-notch,
while seven-seat
layout is most
versatile here
THIS is where the Discovery Sport scores a decisive

advantage over its rivals. Not only is its interior
roomy, its the only model here that benets from
a seven-seat layout. Admittedly, the two rearmost
chairs that fold out of the boot are a little cramped
for adults, but theyre an undeniably useful addition.
The middle row has space for three adults and the
bench slides to boost legroom or boot space.
The Land Rover also feels less claustrophobic than
its rivals, thanks to its large windows and standard
panoramic glass roof. Land Rover quotes a 981litre boot capacity when lled to the roof, but
under the cover theres a similar amount of space as
in the Jag although theres less underoor storage.
Testers notes
The Discovery Sport can tow a maximum

load of 2,200kg. This gure can be increased
to 2,500kg with a heavy-duty electrically
deployable tow bar, but the downside is
thatt y
youll lose the useful third row seating.
Dean Gibson Deputy road test ed.
4 May 2016 53
Road tests
MODEL TESTED: BMW X3

EVER since its launch, the BMW X3 has set the
dynamic benchmark in the compact SUV class.
However, theres much more to the X3 than simply
being enjoyable to drive, and it will be a stern rival
for the new F-Pace. Here we try the xDrive20d in
M Sport trim with an auto box, which costs 38,590.
Styling 3.8/5
THERES an all-new X3 on the way in 2017, but the
current model still looks smart. It was given a minor
facelift in 2014 to keep it fresh, and in M Sport guise
you get a subtle bodykit that gives it a sportier edge.
Standard LED running lights were part of the
styling update, and they create a more distinctive
look than the Jaguar F-Paces J-shaped LEDs. The
slim light units sit either side of BMWs traditional
kidney grille, which arguably appears better
proportioned than the Jags gaping front end.
M Sport models get a deeper, more aggressive
front bumper with extra intakes, while 19-inch
two-tone alloys are also included. They look great, but
the low proles have a negative effect on ride quality
and also hinder the cars off-road performance.
However, the X3 is less likely to venture off the
beaten track than the Land Rover Discovery Sport,
especially if you want to keep the bodykit intact.
Twin tailpipes are nicely integrated into the
sportier rear bumper, which features a gloss-black
plastic insert. As with the Jaguar, a powered bootlid
is tted as standard, while the wraparound tail-light
clusters are another distinctive BMW design cue.
Climb into the roomy cabin and youre met by a
familiar centre console because, as with the F-Pace,
the X3 shares its layout with the compact executive
saloon its based on. That means you get BMWs
traditional orange backlighting and minimalist
labelling on the buttons. All models feature sat-nav,
although the standard display is quite small and wed
recommend upgrading to the 900 Professional
Media Pack, which looks a lot smarter. Theres a
rotary controller on the centre console, yet while the
Jags set-up has one to select gears, the BMWs iDrive
is for navigating through the multimedia system.
Its an intuitive system to use, while the X3s build
quality is great, with solid plastics that feel expensive.
The standard equipment list mostly mirrors the
F-Paces, so sat-nav, DAB radio, Bluetooth, parking
sensors and cruise control all feature. Metallic paint
costs 645, and youll have to pay 610 to match the
F-Paces xenon headlights (LEDs are 1,600, which
is nearly double what youll pay on the Jag), while
keyless go is 495. A reversing camera isnt standard,
either, although its 25 less than in the F-Pace, at 330.
Driving 4.0/5
THOSE large wheels and low-prole tyres mean that
even on adaptive dampers and in Comfort mode, the
X3 has a similarly rm ride to the Land Rover at low
speeds. The upshot is brillant body control, but youll
still feel every pothole, and theres a bit of road noise.
The BMWs steering isnt as quick as the Jags, but
its still direct and beautifully weighted, although
icking the Drive Performance Control switch into
Sport makes it feel heavy and dulls the response. It
also stiffens up the 650 adaptive dampers. Keep the
car in Comfort, and the chassis is sweetly balanced
and nds bags of grip, even in difcult conditions.
The chassis also lets you make the most of an
engine thats the most powerful here, while the
54 4 May 2016
Testers notes
If youre willing to forego racy visual additions,

then the X3 xDrive30d SE is worth a look.
With BMWs lusty and rened 258bhp 3.0-litre
straight-six diesel, itll sprint from 0-62mph in
only 5.9 seconds, which is quicker than many hot
hatches. Add the optional adaptive dampers, and
itll be as engaging to drive as M Sport cars. The
only downside is that its 159g/km CO2 emissions
mean itll cost more as a company car.
Jame
slick-shifting eight-speed automatic gearbox

further enhances the cars eager performance.
However, at the track the BMW had to give best
to its rivals in the sprint from 0-60mph. When
you launch off the line in Sport mode, the engine
doesnt rev out in rst, which contributes towards
the X3s slightly disappointing time of 8.8 seconds.
Even so, it was faster than both rivals here. The
Jaguar and Land Rover were much closer to
the BMW during our in-gear tests, however.
As with the F-Pace, theres an eco driving mode
that forces the powertrain to shift up earlier.
Together with a softer throttle response, it helps
improve efciency when youre taking it easy.
Factor in low wind noise and a smooth engine
that loses its diesel clatter when warm, and
the X3 is a relaxing long-distance cruiser.
Ownership 3.7/5
BMW nished 15th in our Driver Power 2016
satisfaction survey nine places behind Jaguar, but
seven ahead of Land Rover. The X3 fell out of favour
in our latest poll, dropping from 24th to 79th. Owners
criticised its ride, seat comfort and running costs, yet
liked its practicality, performance and build quality.
Although the second-generation X3 has been
on sale for six years, safety is a strong point. It
earned a ve-star Euro NCAP rating when it was
tested in 2011, yet it would lose a star if it was tested
today because autonomous braking isnt available.
Standard safety kit includes lane-change assist and
a tyre-pressure monitor. Adaptive LED headlamps
cost 1,600, while high-beam assist is available for
125 and a surround-view 360-degree camera is 530.
BMW X3
Running costs 3.6/5

BMWS ve-year/50,000-mile servicing pack
costs 525 on the X3, which puts the plan directly
between the more expensive F-Pace and cheaper
Discovery Sport for servicing costs. Depending
on how you drive, the X3s electronics monitor
the cars components for wear and tear, and will
advise you when you need to visit a dealer.
The CO2 emissions of 136g/km are lower than for
either rival, but all three cars are in road tax Band E,
which currently costs 130 a year. Likewise, business
users will face the same 27 per cent Benet in Kind
rate, although a lower list price means higher-rate
taxpayers will save around 200 a year with the X3.
Test economy of 40.8mpg was some way off
BMWs 54.3mpg claim, yet the car was still more
frugal than both the Land Rover and the Jaguar.
Practicality 4.2/5
THE X3s boot is 10 litres down on the F-Paces, at 550 litres,
while folding the back seats creates 1,600 litres of space, which
is 98 litres less than in the Land Rover. However, there are no
remote seat releases in the boot, and storage space beneath
the boot oor is limited. There is a 12V socket, though, while
rails with tiedown points make it easy to secure bulky items.
The BMW is quite spacious in the rear, and its high rooine
ensures that even tall adults will feel comfortable back there.
Storage is good, too, with a deep central cubby and pair of cupholders, plus the glovebox and door bins are of a useful size.
Road tests
HEAD TO
HEAD
CO2/tax
136g/km
130 or 27%
Off-road
THIS trio of SUVs will spend

virtually all their time on tarmac,
but when the going gets rough
its the Land Rover that will go
the furthest, thanks to greater
ground clearance and the clever
Terrain Response traction
control. The Jaguars All Surface
Progress Control nds extra
traction on wet roads, while the
X3 gets Hill Descent Control.
Practicality
550/1,600 litres
Performance
0-60/30-70mph
8.8/8.9 seconds
!
Braking
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
59.7/35.4/8.9m
Practicality
Running costs
40.8mpg (on test)
72 fill-up
On the road
M Sport bodykit gives a subtly sporty look. X3 is impressively composed,
even if ride is on the stiff side and it cant match its rivals crisp dynamics
THE Discoverys third row of

seats gives it an advantage here.
The back bench folds into the
boot oor and can be raised in
one movement, while the sliding
second row frees up decent
legroom. What the Jaguar loses
in MPV versatility, it makes up
for with a huge 650-litre boot.
Running costs
THEREs very little to separate
our trio for running costs. All
three emit less than 140g/km
of CO2, plus each will return
around 50 per cent of its
new value after three years.
All are available with ve-year
service packs for around 500.
Kit
X3 shares 3 Series saloons

dashboard layout; eight-speed
gearbox is a slick shifter
Space
Plenty of room in
BMWs back seat,
but luggage area
is smallest on test
with rear bench
both up and down
Testers notes
Driving this BMW makes you wonder why

youd pay more for the larger X5. The X3
is sharper to drive, cheaper to run and, for
most people, every bit as practical. When it
comes to BMWs SUVs, less is denitely more.
Se
Sean Carson Senior road tester
4 May 2016 55
Figures
On the road price/total as tested
Residual value (after 3yrs/36,000)
Depreciation
Annual tax liability std/higher rate
Annual fuel cost (12k/20k miles)
Ins. group/quote/road tax band/cost
Cost of 1st/2nd/3rd service
Length/wheelbase
Height/width
Engine
Peak power/revs
Peak torque/revs
Transmission
Fuel tank capacity/spare wheel
Boot capacity
Kerbweight/payload/towing weight
Turning circle/drag coefficient
Basic warranty/recovery
Service intervals/UK dealers
Driver Power manufacturer/dealer pos
Euro NCAP: Adult/child/ped./stars
0-60/30-70mph
30-50mph in 3rd/4th
50-70mph in 5th/6th/7th/8th
Top speed/rpm at 70mph
Braking 70-0/60-0/30-0mph
Noise outside/idle/30/70mph
Auto Express econ (mpg/mpl)/range
Govt urban/extra-urban/combined
Actual/claimed CO2/tax bracket
Airbags/Isofix/park sensors/camera
Automatic/AEB/cruise control
Climate control/leather/heated seats
Metallic paint/xenon lights/keyless go
Sat-nav/USB/DAB/Bluetooth
Results
Jaguar F-Pace
2.0d (180)
R-Sport AWD
40,360/44,770
20,906/51.8%
19,454
2,169/4,339
1,540/2,567
29/737/E/130
549 (5yrs/50k)
4,731/2,874mm
1,652/2,070mm
4cyl in-line/1,999cc
178/4,000 bhp/rpm
430/1,750 Nm/rpm
8spd auto/4WD
60 litres/sealant
650/1,740 litres
1,775/695/2,400kg
11.9 metres/0.34Cd
3yrs (unlimited)/3yrs
21k miles (1yr)/97
6th/3rd
N/A
9.4/9.4 secs
3.4/3.7 secs
5.7/7.1/8.8/15.8 secs
129mph/1,600rpm
40.6/31.3/8.6m
75/53/64/72dB
37.9/8.3/500 miles
45.6/60.1/53.3mpg
10.0/13.2/11.7mpl
200/139g/km/27%
Six/yes/yes/355
Yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes
675/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes/yes
RESIDUAL VALUES
PREMIUM-compact
SUVs are always
strong performers
when selling
on, and the new
F-Pace is ahead
of its rivals here.
RUNNING GEAR
WHILE the F-Pace
and Discovery have
the same engine,
Jaguar uses an
eight-speed auto,
compared to a
nine-speeder in
the Land Rover.
ACCELERATION
JAGUAR quotes
0-62mph in 8.2
seconds, a tenth
slower than BMWs
claim for the X3,
but two-tenths
faster than the
Discovery Sport.
OPTIONS
R-SPORT cars are
well equipped, but
you can add LED
headlights for
875, and there
are a range of
wheel options, too.
JAGUAR
1st
JAGUAR has hit the bullseye

with its first SUV. Boldly
styled, great to drive, refined and with
decent practicality, the F-Pace proves
that you neednt sacrifice driving fun
and style when choosing a familyfriendly crossover. The 2.0-litre diesel
is a punchy performer and R-Sport guise
has all the essential kit although its
pricey. Only some of the cheapfeeling cabin materials let it down.
Road tests
Land Rover
Discovery Sport
HSE Auto
BMW X3
xDrive20d
M Sport
39,800/45,225
20,378/51.2%
19,422
2,139/4,278
1,732/2,887
29/808/E/130
499 (5yrs/50k)
38,590/42,895
19,565/50.7%
19,025
2,074/4,148
1,430/2,384
31/1,015/E/130
525 (5yrs/50k)
4,599/2,741mm
1,724/2,069mm
178/4,000 bhp/rpm
430/1,750 Nm/rpm
9spd auto/4WD
54 litres/sealant
981/1,698 litres
1,884/766/2,200kg
11.9 metres/0.36Cd
21k miles (2yr)/130
22nd/24th
93/83/69/5
10.0/10.3 secs
N/A/4.1 secs
6.0/7.5/8.9/12.8 secs
117mph/1,500rpm
49.5/34.4/11.0m
75/53/66/74dB
33.7/7.4/400 miles
44.8/60.1/53.3mpg
9.8/13.2/11.7mpl
225/139g/km/27%
Seven/yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes
625/yes/yes
Yes/yes/yes/yes
LAND ROVER
BOOT CAPACITY
DISCOVERY Sports
five-seat boot
measurement
is to the roof,
whereas its rivals
are measured to
the window line.
SERVICING
COVER a limited
number of miles
each year, and
you could end up
getting your car
serviced every
24 months.
CLAIMED MPG
EFFICIENCY of
nine-speed auto is
cancelled out by
Discovery Sports
higher kerbweight,
so car has same
combined MPG
as F-Pace.
2nd
OUR reigning champ

misses out on victory by
the narrowest of margins. It still leads
the way for practicality, and for some
its seven seats will give it the edge. Its
also better than its rivals off-road, yet
still delivers composed handling on
the tarmac and decent performance
and refinement. Yet its undermined
by a firm low-speed ride and
disappointing fuel economy.
4,657/2,810mm
1,661/1,881mm
4-cyl in-line/1,995cc
190/4,000 bhp/rpm
400/1,750 Nm/rpm
8spd auto/4WD
67 litres/run-flats
550/1,600 litres
1,820/545/2,000kg
11.9 metres/0.33Cd
Variable/153
15th/23rd
88/83/53/5
8.8/8.9 secs
3.3/3.8 secs
5.8/8.4/10.2/18.6 secs
130mph/1,750rpm
59.7/35.4/8.9m
75/52/63/71dB
40.8/9.0/601 miles
50.4/57.6/54.3mpg
11.1/12.7/11.9mpl
186/136g/km/27%
SERVICE COSTS
BMW pioneered
inclusive service
packs, but Land
Rovers five-year
plan is marginally
better value of trio.
WEIGHTS
X3 has the lowest
payload capacity
and can only
tow 400kg less
than the F-Pace.
ACCELERATION
M SPORT models
come with a sport
transmission,
although it didnt
let the engine
rev out to match
BMWs claimed
0-62mph time
of 8.1 seconds.
Six/yes/yes/330
Yes/yes/yes
Yes/no/yes
645/610/495
Yes/yes/yes/yes
BMW
3rd
GIVEN its advancing

years, the X3 puts on a
strong display here. Its 2.0-litre diesel
is the strongest performer, plus its
cabin still has the edge for build and
material quality although its looking
dated. And while it cant quite match
its rivals for crisp driving dynamics, its
still impressively composed. However,
its not as spacious and refined as its
rivals, plus it suffers from a stiff ride.
In red = equipment fitted to our test car. Insurance quotes from AA (Tel 0800 107 0680 or www.theAA.com) for a 42-year-old living in Banbury, Oxon, with three penalty points. Residual values provided by CDL VIP Data.
RIVALS
Other options in
this category...
Mercedes GLC 250 d Sport
Volvo XC60 2.0 D4 R-Design Lux Nav
THE Mercedes is a new entry in the UK, but the GLC ticks
all the right boxes, thanks to its efcient yet powerful diesel,
upmarket cabin and practical
ical
interior. It won on its test
debut in Issue 1,408, and
itll be a tough rival for
the F-Pace when we get
them head-to-head.
ITS getting a bit long in the tooth

th now, yet the Volvo XC60
still remains a front-runner if you
ou want an alternative
rm.
to the German executive SUV norm.
Four-wheel-drive cars get the
lant,
ageing 2.4-litre diesel powerplant,
which puts paid to efciency,
but you do get a lot of
goodies for your money.
4 May 2016 57
Road
o d tests
SEAT Ibiza Cupra vs VW Polo GTI
Volkswagen Polo GTI
Price: 19,095
Engine: 1.8-litre 4cyl turbo, 189bhp
Test economy: 36.9mpg/8.1mpl
CO2: 139g/km Annual road tax: 130
better
Smiles
Pictures: Pete Gibson Location: Wymondham, Leicestershire
Has SEATs revamp of

the Ibiza Cupra upped
the fun factor enough
for it to beat sister brand
Volkswagens Polo GTI? We
put the pair head-to-head
58 4 May 2016
SEAT has a strong track record when

it comes to building scorching hot
hatchbacks. Its Leon Cupra has scooped
the Best Hot Hatch award two years in a row
at our New Car Awards, having seen off
talented rivals in the form of the Ford
Fiesta ST and Volkswagen Golf GTI.
However, every time the brand has tried
to apply its performance-car treatment to its
supermini-sized Ibiza, the results have been
lacklustre. But now theres a new Ibiza Cupra
model on sale; it boasts a more powerful
1.8-litre turbocharged engine that replaces
the old 1.4-litre turbo and supercharged

unit, and it delivers greater performance
and improves efficiency in the process.
The Ibiza will have to overcome its closest
rival to take victory here, though, as the
Polo GTI from sister brand Volkswagen
uses the very same engine and platform.
Unlike its predecessor, the Ibiza now also
comes with a six-speed manual box, which
adds extra driver involvement. Plus its 995
cheaper to buy than the Polo, but is this and
its sportier image enough to see it conquer
parent company VW and its GTI heritage?
SEAT Ibiza Cup

Cupra
upra
ra vvss VW PPolo
oloo GTI
ol
GTI
Road
o d tests
SEAT Ibiza Cupra
Price: 18,100
Engine: 1.8-litre 4cyl turbo, 189bhp
Test economy: 34.3mpg/7.6mpl
CO2: 145g/km Annual road tax: 145
4 May 2016 59
Road tests
MODEL TESTED: SEAT Ibiza Cupra
WITH the Ibiza Cupra available only in threedoor SC (Sport Coup) spec, the body choice is
made for you on SEATs sportiest supermini unlike
with the Polo, which comes as both a three and a
ve-door. While practicality is still important, hot
hatches such as these are about performance and
driver involvement, hence the Cupra is now offered
only with a manual gearbox. Our pictures show the
range-topping Ibiza Cupra Black, but for this test
weve lined up the regular 18,100 Ibiza Cupra.
Styling 3.8/5
THE fourth-generation Ibiza has been in
production since 2008, so although a facelift late
last year refreshed the cars styling, the hard points
underneath mean this is no spring chicken.
Youll have to look closely to spot the changes,
too, as the SEATs overall shape is familiar, with
a pair of sharply creased intersecting lines on the
doors that, together with the ared wheelarches,
give the Cupra plenty of presence on the road.
The deeper front bumper features a bigger air
dam to improve cooling, while the four slots under
the main grille help in this area, too. SEATs Cupra
badge marks the car out as the most performancefocused model in the range, and the chequeredag emblem is repeated on the bootlid.
The Ibiza is even more aggressive from the rear,
with a trapezoidal central-exit exhaust and some
small diffuser-style strakes that complete the
bumpers darker look. Combined with two big
vents at either side the SEAT certainly has plenty
of kerb appeal, although a small boot spoiler can still
make the Ibiza look awkward from some angles.
Gloss-black 17-inch alloy wheels on the Cupra
Black complement its bright white body, whereas the
standard car gets regular silver rims. However, for a
high-spec model, theres not exactly a wealth of kit.
DAB radio and Bluetooth are standard, as
is cruise control, but sat-nav is a 580 extra.
Heated seats, leather upholstery and a reversing
camera arent available, while parking sensors
cost 220. If you go for the navigation system,
which adds a larger 6.5-inch touchscreen,
the kit is better integrated than before.
As with the exterior, the updates inside havent
changed the cabins basic appearance, as the
dashboard still curves away from you. Yet on this
new car, higher-quality, soft-touch materials and
an upgraded infotainment system now available
with MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay and Android
Auto make the Ibiza easier to live with.
The Cupra doesnt get the option of the new
Colour Packs that are available on lesser Ibizas, so
there isnt quite the same scope to customise this
car although part-Alcantara trim can be added for
400. But as the SEAT comes with a gloss-black grille
and door mirrors as standard, as well as sports
seats, it puts the spotlight on performance.
Ownership 3.8/5
SEAT outshone its stablemate in our Driver Power
2016 satisfaction survey, nishing 18th overall
six places ahead of VW. Neither the Ibiza nor
Polo made it into our top 150 cars list, but
SEAT scored right in the middle of our table for
reliability, taking 16th spot out of 32 brands.
You might think the Ibizas age would count against
it for safety, but the Spanish brands boosted tech over
60 4 May 2016
Driving 4.1/5
THE Ibizas new 1.8-litre turbo delivers 12bhp more
than its predecessors 1.4, but more importantly, torque
is now up by 70Nm to 320Nm. Even so, its 189bhp
output is the same as in the Polo, so it was no surprise
that both cars sprinted from 0-60mph in 6.4 seconds.
The SEATs in-gear performance was impressive,
too, and on full throttle, the Cupras sports exhaust
emits a nice granular whistle. The engine note in Sport
mode provides a tting soundtrack to the pace on
offer even if its articially pumped into the cabin.
Quick steering and plenty of grip allow you to place
the car accurately, and the SEAT seems pointier and
more agile than the VW. It feels like you can lean
Testers notes
SEAT previously offered the Ibiza Cupra with a

DSG automatic box only, but a six-speed manual
is now the sole gearbox choice. It shows the
companys intent to deliver a sportier drive, and
theres no doubt this updated model involves you
more in the experience of extracting speed from
the chassis and powertrain. However, it lacks the
nal layer of driver involvement and back-road
composure
pos
that mark out the Ford Fiesta ST.
on the front tyres harder and carry more speed as a

result. Push the Drive mode button, and the dampers
tighten up, giving an even more direct feel to the way
the Ibiza drives as well as better-controlled roll in
corners. Its stiffer than the Polo in Sport mode,
but its also comer than the VW in Normal, thus
highlighting the Ibizas ability at both ends of the scale.
Still, these cars are all about fun, and the Cupra
provides more of it. With its extra grip and XDS
electronic diff, the Ibiza puts its power down better than
the Polo coming out of bends. These differences are
small, and the cars feel very similar to drive when
youre not asking for maximum performance. Yet
while theres little to split the two in a straight line,
the Ibiza offers more on a twisting country road.
SEAT Ibiza
Jame
the years to keep the car competitive. It has a tirednessrecognition system, tyre-pressure monitor and
SEATs Multi-Collision Braking feature that applies
the brakes after a crash to help avoid more impacts.
However, a tally of just four airbags is disappointing.
Running costs 3.6/5
Dash
DESPITE offering the same 189bhp stop/startequipped output and a slightly lower kerbweight
than the Polo, the Ibizas claimed CO2 emissions are
actually higher, at 145g/km against the VWs 139g/km.
This means a two per cent higher Benet in Kind
rate of 26 per cent, so even though the Ibiza is 995
cheaper the Polo to buy, higher-rate business users
will still pay a slim 46 more per year to run it.
Itll also be more expensive to tax, at 145 per
year, while the lower claimed fuel economy
was reected in our real-world numbers at the
pumps. The Ibiza returned 34.3mpg, which
was 2.6mpg less than the Volkswagen.
Update enhances
existing design
with betterquality materials
and improved
infotainment
Road tests
On the road
IN-gear performance is impressive and
engine sounds enticing. Overall dynamics
feel more agile than VWs and are enhanced
by a selection of well chosen drive modes
Cupra
!
CO2/tax
Practicality
Performance
Braking
Running costs
145g/km
0-60/30-70mph
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
34.3mpg (on test)
145 or 26%
292/847 litres
6.4/5.3 seconds
47.4/33.7/8.7m
48 fill-up
Practicality 3.4/5
A 292-litre boot isnt anywhere near the best in class,
but its still a healthy 88 litres larger than the Polos.
However, this is partly due to the VWs greater
underoor storage so, while the Ibiza can swallow
more luggage, the Polo gives you extra security
with its ability to store things out of sight.
Even with its improvements, the SEAT doesnt feel
as upmarket inside as its rival. The cabin architecture
seems cheaper and more awkward, with a less natural
relationship between the controls. The infotainment
screen angles away from you, for example, but at
least the Cupra counters this with decent stowage.
However, it feels more bare inside, and it cant
compete with the Polos upmarket feel.
Testers notes
Space
LOAD area is bigger than Polos, yet
VW offers more underoor storage.
Three can t in the rear; six-speed
manual adds extra driver appeal
The new engine revs to nearly 7,000rpm,

but it doesnt ramp up towards the red line.
Instead, it runs out of steam at 5,500rpm.
Its better to shift up to access the extra
torque
que using
ing the light but sweet manual.
Dean Gibson Dep. road test editor
4 May 2016 61
Road tests
MODEL TESTED: VW Polo GTI 3dr
OVER the years, Volkswagens applied its

fabled GTI badge to various versions of its
Polo supermini. As with the SEAT Ibiza Cupra, this
tuned sixth-generation model features a 1.8-litre
turbo, as opposed to the turbo and supercharged 1.4
in its predecessor. This puts it head-to-head with the
SEAT, so although our pictures show a ve-door, we
test a three-door manual GTI here. Does the more
expensive 19,095 Polo represent money well spent?
Styling 3.9/5
AS with the Ibiza, the Polo GTIs 545 Carmen Red
paint contrasts nicely against its sporty black extras,
such as the front grille, rear bumper insert, blackedged boot spoiler and 17-inch two-tone wheels. And
with the ared arches wrapping tightly around the
alloys, lowered suspension and deeper grille, the
VW sits close to the ground with a sporty stance.
The standard cars squared-off lines show off the
models subtly pumped-up body well, with a strong
shoulder line that rises gently from the front wings
back to the big tail-lights. The upswept window line
above it gives the car a tail-up stance, too, making
the GTI look just as aggressive as the Cupra.
From the front, although the Polos GTI-specic
red trim for the gloss-black grille and headlamps
isnt quite as noticeable on this red example, they
add an extra element of visual aggression, along
with the body-coloured blade lower down in the
bumper. Its a match for the SEAT when it comes
to styling; however, from the rear, the Polos twin
tailpipes and more restrained bumper arent
quite as overtly sporty as the Cupras back end.
Opening the door reveals a further nod to the GTI
heritage: chequered Jacara cloth sports seats. The cabin
feels more upmarket than the SEATs, with plenty of
metal trim inserts, red stitching and gloss-black plastic.
However, unless you raid the options list,
theres not quite as much equipment as you
might expect from a top-spec performance model.
The GTI matches the Cupra with DAB radio and
Bluetooth tted as standard, but whereas cruise
control is standard on the Ibiza, its a 400 option
here as part of the Cruise & Park Pack, which also
adds parking sensors and reversing camera.
Alcantara is available as a 965 option, but the
standard cloth seats look great and add a ourish
to the fairly dark cabin, plus they offer plenty of
support for fast driving. You can opt for heated chairs
for 360 these arent available on the SEAT while
the Polo GTI also gets LED headlights as standard,
compared to xenons on the Ibiza Cupra.
Driving 4.0/5
THE VW uses the same 189bhp 1.8-litre engine as
the SEAT, so there was virtually nothing in it when it came
to on-test performance. The Polo GTI recorded the same
6.4-second 0-60mph time as the Ibiza, and was slightly
faster during some of our in-gear assessments. However,
this could be simply because our test car had covered
more miles than the Cupra, so its engine felt looser.
Its in-gear times in the higher ratios were impressive, with
50-70mph in sixth taking 5.4 seconds. A strong 320Nm
of torque available from as low as 1,450rpm (again, the
same as the SEAT) means the Polo GTI pulls hard, while
the Sport button sharpens throttle response and turns
up the engine noise produced by the sound synthesiser.
A hollow-sounding snarl is piped into the cabin when youre
fully on the power its not a natural noise like in a Ford Fiesta
ST, but it does ramp up the excitement when driving fast.
Sport mode also rms up the adaptive dampers if
specied (see Head to Head, opposite), but the Polo doesnt
have as much grip as the Cupra. The steering isnt quite as
accurate, while the front tyres dont bite as hard. Traction
out of corners isnt as good, either, yet both models feature
the same XDS torque vectoring to help put power down.
Squeeze the throttle on the exit of a corner, and the VWs
wheels will scrabble for grip in situations where the Ibiza
drives hard. The GTI isnt quite as compliant in Normal mode,
either. Both cars ride rm, but in the Polo, youre more aware
of bumps that dont seem to unsettle the SEAT quite as badly.
All these traits combined mean the GTI doesnt quite inspire
the same level of condence as you feel in the Cupra, which
allows you to drive harder and carry more speed. Essentially,
the SEATs more fun when you want it, and more comfortable
when you dont which is what these cars are all about.
Volkswagen Polo G
Testers notes
Theres no doubting that the Volkswagen

seems a cut above in terms of cabin quality,
so if you want a hot hatch that feels plusher
and more premium, the GTI is more of a rival to
the likes of Peugeots 208 GTi. These cars are
about fun, though, and compared with the
cheaper Ibiza Cupra the VW doesnt deliver
quite the same sense of enjoyment from
behind the wheel which is a real shame,
given how similar the two cars are underneath.
Jame
Ownership 3.4/5
VW slipped two places in our Driver Power 2016
rankings, with customers voting the brand down to
24th overall when it comes to satisfaction. And while
the companys reliability performance was worse
than SEATs (29th out of 32 manufacturers), at least
with the cars shared engine, underpinnings and
similar infotainment which is taken from elsewhere
in the VW and SEAT ranges most problems with
the Polo should have been ironed out by now.
As with the Ibiza, post-collision braking and a tyrepressure monitor are standard on the VW, while both
cars uprated brakes should boost safety. Yet curtain
airbags are a hefty 655 option, while unlike on
cheaper Polo models you cant add adaptive cruise
control or autonomous emergency braking.
62 4 May 2016
Running costs 3.8/5

ITS hard to split the Cupra and GTI given how many
components the two cars share, but when it comes
to residual values, the Volkswagen is leagues ahead.
Our experts predict that the Polo will hold on to
47.5 per cent of its value, whereas the Ibiza will retain
just 40.1 per cent. This means that although the
SEAT costs less, itll also be worth less after three
years, at 7,251 compared to 9,076 for the VW.
Both cars fall into Group 29 for insurance, so
quotes for our sample driver were very similar,
at 677 and 667 for the Ibiza and Polo respectively.
Practicality 3.5/5
THE VWs smaller boot with its rear seats up could put it at a
practicality disadvantage against the SEAT, but fold the backrests
down, and theres 882 litres on offer 35 litres more than in the
Ibiza. The Polo offers better storage and ergonomics inside, too.
Although our pictures show a ve-door model, weve tested
a three-door GTI here, and its just as easy to get in and out of
as the Ibiza. The front seats fold and slide forward far enough
that you can easily thread yourself into the back row.
Build quality is also better in the Volkswagen, which
gives the Polo a much more solid feel than its rival.
Road tests
HEAD TO
HEAD
CO2/tax
139g/km
130 or 24%
Heritage
SEATS Cupra performance

division has been around for
20 years. Although it cant
match the 41-year history of
VWs GTI badge, its worthy
competition to established
hot-hatch players. The Ibiza
may not boast quite as much
quality or panache, but it doesnt
totally live in the shadow of
its Leon big brother, either.
Practicality
204/882 litres
Performance
0-60/30-70mph
6.4/5.4 seconds
!
Braking
70-0/60-0/30-0mph
46.9/35.1/9.3m
Driving modes
BOTH the VW and SEAT feature
adjustable driving modes to tune
their character, but the Ibizas has
the broader repertoire, offering
more comfort in Normal and
greater focus in Sport. This is
standard on the Cupra, whereas
the Sport performance pack is
a 250 option on the Polo GTI.
Running costs
36.9mpg (on test)
48 fill-up
GTI
Design
RED cabin highlights
and stitching, plus
chequered seating
fabric, give Polo GTI a
suitably sporting look
How many doors?

On the road
EVEN with optional adaptive dampers in rmed-up Sport
mode, Polo doesnt have as much grip as Cupra. Youre also
more aware of bumps that dont affect the SEAT quite so much
Cabin
BOOT is smaller
than SEATs with
seats up, but larger
with them down.
Theres plenty of
rear passenger
space in both ve
and three-door
models, and build
quality is great
ONLY the Polo GTI is available in

three and ve-door form (the
latter is 630 extra), so if youll
be carrying passengers regularly,
the VW will be a better bet. The
Polo is also the only car that
gets the option of a sevenspeed DSG auto, adding 1,245.
Testers notes
Polos packed with Golf GTI styling cues, but

it lacks its big brothers substance and depth
of talent. If you want a VW GTI, scouring the
classieds will turn up loads of lightly used
2014 Golfs for the same cash as a new Polo.
Se
Sean Carson Senior road tester
4 May 2016 63
SEAT
SE Ibiza Cupra vs VW Polo GTI
Figures
On-the-road price/total as tested
Residual value (after 3yrs/30,000)
Depreciation
Annual tax liability std/higher rate
Annual fuel cost (12k/20k miles)
Ins. group/quote/road tax band/cost
Servicing costs
SEAT Ibiza
Cupra
18,100/19,210
7,251/40.1%
10,849
931/1,862
1,707/2,845
29/677/F/145
498 (3yrs/30,000m)
Length/wheelbase
Height/width
Engine
Peak power
Peak torque
Transmission
Fuel tank capacity/spare wheel
Boot capacity (seats up/down)
Kerbweight/payload/towing weight
Turning circle
Basic warranty (miles)/recovery
Service intervals/UK dealers
Driver Power manufacturer/dealer pos.
NCAP: Adult/child/ped./assist/stars
4,055/2,469mm
1,420/1,693mm
189/4,300 bhp/rpm
320/1,450 Nm/rpm
6-spd man/fwd
45 litres/space-saver
292/847 litres
1,260/440kg/N/A
10.0 metres
3yrs (60,000)/2yrs
10,000 miles (1yr)/128
18th/27th^
82/77/59/71/5 (2011)
0-60/30-70mph
30-50mph in 3rd/4th
50-70mph in 5th/6th
Top speed/rpm at 70mph
Braking 70-0/60-0/30-0mph
Noise levels outside/idle/30/70mph
Auto Express econ (mpg/mpl)/range
Actual/claimed CO2/tax bracket
6.4/5.3 secs
2.8/3.6 secs
4.6/5.3 secs
146mph/2,500rpm
47.4/33.7/8.7m
64/52/67/76dB
34.3/7.6/340 miles
36.2/53.3/45.6mpg
8.0/11.7/10.0mpl
190/145g/km/26%
Airbags/Isofix/park sensors/camera
Auto gearbox/stability/cruise control
Climate control/leather/heated seats
Metallic paint/xenon lights/keyless go
Sat-nav/USB/DAB radio/Bluetooth
Results
Four/yes/220/no
No/yes/yes
Yes/no/no
530/yes/no
580/yes/yes/yes
Road
o tests
Volkswagen
Polo GTI 3dr
19,095/21,705
9,076/47.5%
10,019
908/1,815
1,587/2,645
29/667/E/130
288 (2yrs)
RESIDUALS
SEAT cant
compete with VW
residuals, trailing
by seven per cent.
INSURANCE
IBIZA and Polo
both fall into
the Group 29
insurance bracket,
which saw the
quotes for our
sample driver
come out just
10 apart.
3,983/2,468mm
1,443/1,682mm
189/4,200 bhp/rpm
320/1,450 Nm/rpm
6-spd man/fwd
45 litres/space-saver
204/882 litres
1,272/513/1,100kg
10.6 metres
3yrs (60,000)/1yr
Variable/223
24th/30th^
90/86/41/71/5 (2009)
PERFORMANCE
BOTH cars
matched more
powerful Fiesta
ST Mountune from
0-60mph, but
neither can rival
class leader for
handling or thrills.
6.4/5.4 secs
2.6/3.5 secs
4.4/5.4 secs
146mph/2,500rpm
46.9/35.1/9.3m
64/52/69/76dB
36.9/8.1/365 miles
37.2/55.4/47.1mpg
8.2/12.2/10.4mpl
177/139g/km/24%
STANDARD KIT
NEITHER car
offers much in the
way of equipment
for range-topping
models. Ibiza gets
cruise control,
while Polo boasts
LED headlights.
SEAT
Deals &
discounts
Four/yes/295/240
1,245/yes/400
380/no/360
545/LED/no
700/yes/yes/yes
1st
VOLKSWAGEN
Facts, figures and advice

powered by carbuyer.co.uk
ENGINE
BOTH cars use
the same 1.8
turbo and offer
near-identical
performance,
but Ibiza Cupras
chassis feels
more fun to drive.
DRIVE POWER
LATEST Driver
Power 2016
rankings show
SEAT customers
enjoy their
ownership
experience more
than VW owners.
VW finished near
the bottom; SEAT
was mid-table.
EMISSIONS
DESPITE weighing
more than the
Cupra, GTIs CO2
emissions from
identical engine
are lower. This
means the Polo
slips into one
tax band lower
than the Ibiza.
2nd
NEXT to the Cupra, the GTI

feels like a more sensible
choice. Theres still impressive
performance on offer and more
practicality, but its higher price counts
against it in a sector where fun and
affordability matter more. Ultimately,
the VW doesnt have as much
character as the SEAT, but if quality
and refinement matter more, then
the Polo GTI is worth a look.
THE Ibiza Cupra doesnt

hold its value as well or
feel quite as upmarket inside as the
Polo GTI, but its more fun to drive. Thats
what matters most here, and it sees
the SEAT take victory by the slightest of
margins. Theres enough practicality on
offer to make the Cupra usable day-today, while its more comfortable ride,
effervescent personality and sharper
agility will put a smile on your face.
THE hot hatch market is

fiercely competitive, so in
an attempt to win sales, SEAT
is already offering deals on
its new Ibiza Cupra. The
manufacturer will make a
2,250 deposit contribution,
while customers will have
to find a mere 277 to put
down up front, which is
a very attractive offer.
Thats followed by 47
monthly payments of 277,
with interest charged at 7.2
per cent APR. However, there
is a drawback. A low deposit
such as this pushes up the
price at the end of the
finance agreement, so the
final balloon payment is
quite steep, at 6,229. But if
the Ibiza appeals to you, then
this is one of the most costeffective ways of getting into
a practical performance car.
Theres an equally
attractive offer on the Polo
GTI through Volkswagen.
With the same 2,527
deposit as the SEAT
(including a 1,400
contribution from VW),
48 monthly payments at
251 per month undercut
the Ibiza offer, even though
the final payment is higher
at 7,948. Interest of 6.6
per cent APR is lower,
while the mileage limit of
10,000 per year is identical.
Rate your insurance and

breakdown provider now
www.autoexpress.co.uk/DPinsurance
^Manufacturer ranking from Driver Power 2016; dealers from 2015. In red = equipment fitted to our test car. Insurance quotes from AA
(Tel 0800 107 0680 or www.theAA.com) for a 42-year-old living in Banbury, Oxon, with three penalty points. Residual values provided by CDL VIP Data.
COMING
soon
Is it worth waiting
for this model?
Ford Fiesta ST200
DUE: Summer PRICE: 20,00 est

ENGINE: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 197bhp
OUR current compact hot-hatch kings
been treated to a mid-life makeover.
Power is up from 180bhp to 197bhp,
while theres exclusive Storm Grey
paint and two-tone alloys. Expect the
ST200 to hit dealers later this summer.
4 May 2016 65
Our cars
Living with a Mazda MX-5
Lesley Harris
Lesley_Harris@dennis.co.uk
WHEN our new Mazda MX-5 arrived

on the Auto Express eet, there was a
predictable bun-ght as to who was going
to run the highly acclaimed two-seater
roadster. However, with most of my
colleagues having small children to
consider, it was soon whittled down to me
and I certainly wasnt going to argue!
I was lucky enough to run the previousgeneration 2.0-litre MX-5 when it was
launched back in 2006 and loved it
so I was immensely excited about getting
behind the wheel of this latest incarnation.
But with its new smaller 1.5-litre engine,
would it live up to my high expectations?
Off I went to be reacquainted with my
local Mazda dealer TW Whites in
Bookham, Surrey where sales executive
Tom Birdsall was available not only to
answer any questions I had, but to hand
over the keys to my precious new charge.
After a coffee and a look through the
MX-5 brochure, Tom talked me through
the extensive features of the cars MZD
Connect infotainment system. With its
dash-mounted seven-inch tablet-style
screen, theres plenty going on for techie
types. He eagerly showed me how I could
connect to the Internet, Tweet and post on
Facebook if I so desired. Im more keen
on doing that from the comfort and safety
of my home, but its a neat little option.
Features
What was useful was the ease with which

my smartphone paired, while the sat-nav is
simple to use. Its all helped by the Multimedia
Commander control wheel by the gearlever,
which puts everything at your ngertips.
Mazda has now installed a new external
boot release button, which Tom pointed out.
Its well hidden in the corner of the number
plate recess, and I certainly wouldnt have
found it without his advice. With past
experience of locking my keys in the
boot of my previous MX-5, its certainly
a welcome addition to the new model.
Weve opted for mid-range SE-L Nav spec,
which gets smart black cloth seats with red
stitching, LED headlights, cruise control
and steering wheel-mounted audio and
Bluetooth controls as standard. Weve also
opted for the Ceramic metallic paint option,
which I think looks really smart at 550,
although its had the Marmite effect by
dividing opinion among my colleagues.
But its when you get behind the wheel
that the enjoyment really kicks in. Unlatch
the manual hood the windows now
automatically drop slightly to ease
operation, although annoyingly they
dont go back up push the canvas roof
back, click it into place and youre ready for
some wind-in-the-hair, open-top motoring.
Its now 27 years on from the original
MX-5, and Mazda has thankfully
remained faithful to the original ethos
by keeping the latest model simple, yet
providing fantastically fun motoring.
The familiar short-shift six-speed
gearbox is still one of the best youll nd,
and coupled with the new 1.5-litre engine,
it really is a perfect match. Im not the only
66 4 May 2016
Mazda MX-5
FIRST REPORT Roadster with the focus
rmly on fun is the latest model to join our eet
CO2/tax
139g/km
130 or 24%
Mid-range SE-L Nav spec gets

black cloth seats, but Ceramic
metallic paint has split opinion
Sales exec Tom Birdsall talked us through our new Mazda and explained the hi-tech
MZD Connect infotainment system. Lesley is looking forward to running car in summer
Living with a Mazda MX-5
Our cars
Derek Goard
Essentials
Mazda MX-5
1.5 SkyActiv SE-L Nav
On fleet since:
Price new:
Engine/torque:
CO2/tax:
Options:
Insurance*:
Mileage/mpg:
Costs:
Any problems?
March 2016
20,195
1.5-litre 4cyl, 129bhp
139g/km/130
Metallic paint (550)
Group: 26 Quote: 651
1,712/41.5mpg
None so far
None to date
*Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a

42-year-old in Banbury, Oxon, with three points.
TECH
Seven-inch
colour screen
houses sat-nav
and other
multimedia.
Boot release
button is on
the number
plate recess
WE LIKE
MZD Connect
multimedia is intuitive and easy
to use thanks to Commander
control. Accessing the Internet
and Tweeting is possible, too
Practicality
Running costs
Boot
45.1mpg (on test)
130 litres
49 fill-up
one to think so, either everyone from the

ofce who has driven the MX-5 has been
bowled over by the little roadster. Im now
just hoping we get a great summer, because
as long as its dry, the roof will be rmly down
and Ill once again be in convertible heaven...
Second opinion
Mazda struck gold with its revived

roadster formula. The latest model
has 2.0-litre and 1.5-litre engine
options, but going for the smaller
engine doesnt mean you
compromise on performance.
James Disdale
Road test editor
WE DONT Lowering or raising

the manual hood is a simple
task. But the windows go down
slightly when doing this, and
irritatingly they dont go back up
Verdict
ITS been a few years since we

last ran an MX-5, and Im really
excited about getting my hands
on this new one. While its not the
most practical car on our fleet,
it more than makes up for it with
its fun character. It makes you
want to drive just for the thrill
of it, and thats exactly what I
intend to do while its in my care.
4 May 2016 67
Our cars
John McIlroy
John_McIlroy@dennis.co.uk
@johnmcilroy
WEVE passed the 2,500-mile mark in

our Skoda Superb Estate and already
have a solid list of the cars strong points.
Its massive, of course; weve not even
scratched the surface of its load capacity. Its
comfortable and rened, with very little wind
or engine noise at a fast motorway cruise.
Indeed, these have not been easy
months for the VW Groups diesel engine
department, but Im going to risk a grilling
here and say that the Superbs motor is a star.
Our car has the 2.0-litre TDI 150PS (148bhp),
paired with a six-speed DSG dual-clutch
transmission, and the trip computer tells
me Im achieving almost 49mpg overall.
That may not sound like a completely
stellar gure and its never particularly
wise to trust a trip computer, either but
when you do the maths on our fuel lls,
it does add up. And with the Superbs
reasonably hefty 66-litre tank, Ive
been seeing a predicted range of around
700 miles after a brimmed ll-up.
Id expected to be stopping for fuel
around once a week, but its much closer
to once per fortnight and I reckon I could
reduce that frequency further if I undertook
a few long motorway runs instead of stopstart commutes into our ofces in London.
There havent been any real niggles on
the cars part, although Ive been trying to
get my Android phone to hook up to the
Superbs infotainment system, and failing.
Ive installed the Android Auto app on
my smartphone, but when I do as Im told
plug it in via USB, then hit the Android
Auto button on the Skodas central display
I get a mixed bag of results. The phone
itself changes its screen as if everythings
ne, but the cars display just blacks out.
Im going to hold shy from criticising the
car, for now at least. My phone is a cheap
Practicality
Running costs
48.4mpg (on test)
660/1,950 litres
67 fill-up
Skoda Superb Est
SECOND REPORT Big estate is proving its worth as a family car and ll-up
CABIN
Superb is very
spacious, with
plenty of room
for six-footers in
the rear. On the
road, Estate is
comfortable
and refined
With the Superbs

hefty 66-litre tank,
Ive been seeing a
predicted range of
around 700 miles
68 4 May 2016
Chinese offering that I bought online about

a year ago and while it has been great value
for money, Im not entirely convinced that its
running a pure enough version of Android
for the Skoda to approve the connection.
Still, Ive just bitten the bullet and
ordered a Motorola that runs a near-vanilla
version of Googles operating system, so
Ill report back soon on whether that has
made the difference. In the meantime,
Ive just booked a family holiday for late

spring and the choice of venue was
inuenced by the big Skodas abilities.
After all, when youve got this much
space and this much fuel range, a weekend
on the south coast would be a bit of a
waste, wouldnt it? So Ive gone for
a ferry crossing and a jaunt across Europe
instead; Im enjoying looking forward
to the break, and not dreading the drive.
Second opinion
With its vast boot, low running

costs and healthy kit list, there really
isnt any other large estate thats as
tempting as the Superb for private
and business users alike.
Dean Gibson
Deputy road test editor
Living with a Skoda Superb Estate

Otis Clay
Essentials
Our cars
Fleetwatch
Skoda Superb Estate

2.0 TDI 150 SE L Exec
On fleet since: January 2016
Price new: 28,185
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl,
turbodiesel, 148bhp
CO2/tax: 122g/km/110
Options: Corrida red paint
(175), fold-flat front passenger seat
(100), rear-view parking camera
(300), space-saver spare wheel
(100), floor mats (80)
Insurance*: Group: 19 Quote: 513
Mileage/mpg: 2,680/48.4mpg
Any problems? None so far
*Insurance quote from AA (0800 107 0680) for a
42-year-old in Banbury, Oxon, with three points.
WE LIKE Decent-sized fuel

tank and nearly 49mpg give
the Superb enormous potential
range on a single tank. We reckon
more than 700 miles are possible
Massive
double cab
pick-up really
stands out
with bright
Savannah
Orange paint
Nissan Navara NP300
WEVE got a new addition to our eet, and its difcult to miss in the
car park. The massive Nissan Navara is already proving a big hit thanks
to its versatility and striking Savannah Orange paintwork, but its not
exactly the ideal commuter car. At over 5.3 metres long and nearly
2.1 metres wide, the Navaras size makes it challenging to manoeuvre,
and that isnt helped by the slow steering and long-throw gearshift.
Our Tekna-spec model, which costs nearly 30,000, feels like an
upmarket Qashqai inside, with standard kit comprising sat-nav, Nissans
Around View Monitor 360-degree camera system (essential when
parking), LED headlamps, heated leather seats and dual-zone climate
control. Its also got a retro feature you dont often see nowadays: a
large sun strip over the top of the windscreen. Its enough to make you
forget youre in a commercial vehicle at least until you head for a
twisty road. Were looking forward to our time with the big Nissan, yet
were hoping to get it away from the city streets as much as possible.
Our fleet
tate
INDEX
ps are few and far between
Honda Civic Type R
WE DONT Skodas Smartgate
offers to take phone connectivity

to a new level but its proving
ddly to get Android Auto working.
We have a new phone on the way
Verdict
WE suspected when it arrived
that the Superb Estate could
be all the car you ever need
for family life, and its certainly
working out that way. Our big
red wagon is now a firm favourite,
and longer expeditions planned
for the spring and summer should
help to confirm our affections.
NEWS reporter Sam Naylor took our Honda

Civic Type R on his trip to sample the new
Ford Focus RS on UK roads for the rst
time, and driving the two cars back-to-back
brought up a few interesting comparisons.
While the 306bhp Type R is down on
power compared to the 345bhp Focus, the
way the Honda delivers its power makes
it feel more potent on the road. Theres a
huge rush of torque from the turbo as the
engine tears its way to the rev limiter, giving
it an exciting sense of urgency. The Ford
denitely sounds better, though, and most of
the time its more fun to drive, but the Civics
cornering ability is still hugely impressive.
Where the Honda really steals a march on
its rival is practicality, as its huge 498-litre
boot is nearly twice as big as the Focus. As
for the similarities, both have a stiff ride that
becomes unbearable when the adaptive
dampers are in their hardest setting, and
both have disappointingly dull interiors
to go with their outlandish exterior looks.

Caterham Seven 270S

Issues 1,397, 1,404, 1,415
Ford S-MAX
Issue 1,415
Honda Civic Type R
Issues 1,405, 1,414
Jaguar XE
Issues 1,398, 1,411
Kia Sorento
Issues 1,395, 1,410
Land Rover Disco Sport
Issues 1,409, 1,416
Lexus NX 300h
Iss 1,377, 1,394, 1,402, 1,412
Mazda MX-5
New arrival
MINI Clubman
Issue 1,419
Nissan Navara NP300
New arrival
Peugeot 308 GTi
New arrival
Porsche Macan
Issues 1,407, 1,413
Renault Kadjar
Issue 1,416
SEAT Ibiza
Issues 1,406, 1,408
Skoda Superb Estate
Issue 1,411
SsangYong Tivoli
Issues 1,401, 1,407, 1,417
Toyota Verso
Issues 1,381, 1,391, 1,401
Volvo XC90
Issues 1,410, 1,419
4 May 2016 69
Products
Visit autoexpress.co.uk for our extensive product archive
THIS WEEKS
HOT KIT
Kim
Adams
SUCTION
Revised Dyson
cordless vac
has stronger,
fade-free
lithium batteries
to double
the runtime
to 40 minutes
Got a query?
Kim_Adams@dennis.co.uk
@AE_Consumer
Q
A
CORD-FREE CLEANING
WITH NEW SUPER SUCKER
NEW PRODUCT
Dyson V8 Cord-free Vacuum
Price: 499
Contact: 0800 298 0298, www.dyson.co.uk
DYSON has replaced its cordless V6 vac with a

new higher-powered, longer-lasting version that
can double as a cleaner for the car and the house.
Battery runtime is said to have been doubled
over previous versions to 40 minutes, while the
maker says fade-free lithium-ion batteries keep
suction strong for the duration. A useful new
addition is a battery indicator, as well. Dyson

claims the V8 is 50 per cent quieter than
past vacs, and a higher suction max mode
provides 115AW of suction up from 100AW.
While the vac has a long arm, it can be
converted to a handheld device for ease of
use in-car. Theres a selection of tools available,
such as a motorised brush for shifting pet hair
and ground-in dirt from seats and carpets.
The V8 should be hard-wearing, too, as
the polycarbonate bin is made from the same
light but strong material as a police riot shield.
Q
A
Q
A
How to store a classic car

IVE just bought a classic car I plan to restore. I
dont have a garage at the moment, so will have
to keep it outside. Whats the best way to keep
it protected while I sort out permanent storage?
Stuart James, E-mail
THERES a good choice of outdoor covers thatll
keep the rain off and allow moisture to escape.
If you have the space, consider a fabric shelter.
Theres a range of designs and you could even
start your restoration in one. Inside, protect the
car with a cover like our Issue 1,383 test winner
from Cosmos (above, www.comotpro.com).
How do I stop wiper judder?

FOR a while, the wipers on my SEAT Leon have
been juddering and streaking. Ive bought and
fitted new, brand-name wipers, but the problem
is still there. Should I return the new blades?
David Lovett, E-mail
IF theyre a decent brand, the problem probably
lies elsewhere. Check the wiper spindles are
tight, the mounting is free from flexing and the
arms work correctly. If all is well, there could be
sap or unseen contaminants on your screen.
You can clean these with a clay bar and lube,
or try a glass polish like Autoglyms (7.25); its
fine abrasives remove hard-to-shift particles.
Track tyres for the road

I USED to buy track-day tyres for my Westfield
that I could also use to drive to the circuits. Im
looking for replacements, but there seems to be
a lot less choice than before. Whats happened?
John Gee, E-mail
TYRE labelling rules changed in 2014, raising the
fuel economy requirement. That meant many softcompound track tyres could no longer be sold for
road use. Smaller sizes seem worst affected, but
Toyo produced the R888R to comply with the rules,
and other makers have new designs on the way.
4 May 2016 71
Products
Latest kit rated
SMART NEW BREATHALYSER

ENDS MORNING AFTER DOUBT
FIRST TEST
Alcosense Ultra
READING
Price: 249.99
Contact: www.alcosense.co.uk Rating:
THE morning after consuming alcohol, its hard

to determine whether or not youre still over the
legal driving limit. In Issue 1,408, we featured
the Alcosense Pro breathalyser, which makes
finding out a lot easier. Now the brand has
launched the Ultra, and we put it to the test here.
At 249.99, the newcomer carries a 100
premium over the Pro, but it features a bigger
sensor for a more accurate reading, and the kit
comes with 100 single-use mouthpieces and a
protective case, worth 40. Unlike the Pro, the
Ultra has been programmed to analyse samples
for various nations regulations, including France
and the US, which calculate readings differently.
It has markers to ensure you give your sample
correctly. And although your face is close to the
display, the traffic light colours are easy to
decipher. Once your breath has been detected
and analysed by the clever software algorithm,
the Ultra gives you a reading. It tells you what
percentage of alcohol has been detected in
your breath and flashes green, amber or
red, depending on whether youre over the
limit, under it or completely in the clear.
Plus, it handily indicates how long it will
be before you are fully sober again.
The Ultra may be a little expensive, but its
easy use and the life of the AA batteries is
maximised by its power-efficient components.
After giving a
sample of your
breath, the Ultra
will flash up red,
amber or green,
depending on the
level of alcohol
in your blood
news,
deals&
events
New tech brings

bags up to speed
THE airbag has been largely
unchanged for many years, but a
new development could be on the
way in the shape of the Speed
Adjusted Airbag System (SAAS).
This aims to prevent injuries
from airbags in low-speed
collisions, with 15 speedsensitive stages of deployment.
SAAS is currently being crowdfunded on Indiegogo. Head
to www.indiegogo.com to
watch a video that explains
how the process will work.
BMW M4 rubber
covers all bases
MICHELINS latest creation is the
Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyre. Developed
specifically for the BMW M4 GTS
(driven in Issue 1,417), the tyres
are produced with a bi-compound
asymmetric tread pattern and,
unusually, a casing design to
optimise the balance between
handling, grip and tyre life.
The rubber has not solely been
designed for quick lap times, but
also for good road manners and
to limit heat build-up and wear.
LIFE Efficient components

ensure AA batteries last as
long as possible; Ultra comes
with handy protective case
Le Mans 24 Hours
legends celebration
NEW PRODUCT
KitSound MyJack
Price: 17.99
Contact: www.kitsound.co.uk
THIS tiny Bluetooth transmitter can add music streaming and

phone call functionality to any car with an auxiliary port.
Bluetooth is often a standard feature nowadays, yet in
models without it, connecting a phone can be a pain.
KitSounds MyJack is small enough to go unnoticed in most
cars, and five hours of music playback is possible from a
single charge. You can even connect two devices at once
for collaborative playlists. However, unlike with a built-in
system, you still have to use your phone to change track.
Still, with the right mount, that shouldnt be a problem.
72 4 May2016
MyJack fits
into any cars
auxiliary port;
up to two
devices can
be connected
EVER dreamed of meeting a legend of

the Le Mans 24 Hours race? Hope for
Tomorrow, a charity that operates
mobile units to treat cancer, will be
bringing together big names such as
Sir Stirling Moss, Martin Brundle and
Ross Brawn for a charity dinner at the
Hurlingham Club in London on 18 May.
Tickets are 135 per person and
include a drinks reception, Le Mans
cars showcase and other surprises.
To apply for tickets, head to
www.hopefortomorrow.org.uk.
Know an event coming soon?
Contact Kim_Adams@dennis.co.uk
MEGA DEAL!
4 BAYS &
1 BENCH
175
.00
210
.00
ex VAT
100% Boltless Assembly

Strong steel frame & chipboard decks
Money back guarantee. Conditions apply see online
FREE
PLASTIC
BIN KIT
SK1
SK2
SK3
4 Bays: 1780h x 900w x 300d mm

1 Workbench: 900h x 1400w x 600d
4 Bays: 1780h x 900w x 450d mm
4 Bays: 1780h x 900w x 600d mm
175.00 210.00
199.00 238.80
219.00 262.80
246.00
274.80
310.80
With every order

over 89*
Quote AE16
at time of order
Offer ends 04.06.2016
*Excludes VAT & Carriage.
UDL = Uniformly Distributed Load. Carriage is per set, orders of multiple sets will incur extra carriage charge. Please phone for full details or go online.
REQUEST YOUR FREE CATALOGUE ONLINE TODAY
03450 177 718 www.bigdug.co.uk/megadeals

Delivery price is to Mainland UK only. All prices correct at time of going to press. Sales
Lines open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. This number is charged at 2p per
minute plus any additional access charges from your service provider. We reserve the
right to change products & prices at any time. All offers subject to availability.
E & OE. Co Reg No. 5019218. For full terms visit www.bigdug.co.uk.
BiGDUG Ltd, Riga Wharf, Bristol Road, Gloucester GL2 5DH
Products
Alloy cleaner mini test
Mini test
books,
apps&games
NEW PRODUCT
Rocket Butter Roll In
Alloy Wheel Cleaners
Best price: 7 Size: 500ml

Contact: 0844 8842 888, autobulbsdirect.co.uk
THERES a slightly thicker consistency

to this cleaner compared to its rivals
here, which helps it cling to the
rim and slows run-off.
Instructions dont tell you to leave
any time for the formula to work; just
spray and agitate with a brush, then
rinse. Even leaving it for a minute or two
didnt help break down the thick layer of
brake dust. It made barely any progress.
It fared much better when we used
the weighted brush, with sections of
grime removed completely, although
there were patches and streaks left
with our limited strokes. It works,
and can be used on any type of
rim, but there are better options.
Rating:
Which alloy dust-buster

shines the brightest?
Kim Adams
AS we saw in our Car Care

Special (Issue 1,414), buyers
have plenty of brands to choose
from if theyre looking to clean
or polish their car. New to the
scene is Rocket Butter part of
the Autobulbs Direct range,
which covers everything from
snow foam to air fresheners.
Here, we look at the wheel
cleaner, as we put its claim of
top-end quality at an affordable
price to the test. We try it
against multiple test winner
Bilt Hamber auto-wheel, which
turns deep purple as it works,
plus Black Diamond Alloy Shine.
Prices were taken from a
range of sources as we went
to press. As in our group tests,
we applied each to a section of
wheel trim, then gently rinsed
off to assess how effectively
they had lifted brake dust.
We then wiped the section
with a weighted brush to
ensure the same pressure for
each product. The new cleaner
worked well, but was a step
behind our group test top two.
We applied each
to a section of wheel
trim, then rinsed off
74 4 May 2016
STILLOURFAVOURITE
Bilt Hamber auto-wheel
el
Best price: 12.95 Size: One litre

Contact: 01277 658899, bilthamber.com
om
IT was close between our test-topping

pping
pair, but auto-wheel holds on to its
crown. It was one of the pioneers of the
purple cleaning products, and iss still
the best. The bad egg smell has been
een
softened, but its still not great to
o use
close up. It works quicker than before,
efore,
as it only needs to be left for between
een
one and five minutes to be effective
ive
on the brake dust for a near spotless
less
finish after the brush. Still impressive.
ive.
Rating:
GOOD-VALUEOPTION
Black Diamond Alloy Shine
Best price: 3.75 Size: 500ml

Contact: 01438 749501,
www.blackdiamondproducts.co.uk
BLACK Diamond has made a budget

udget
option that works well. The packaging
ckaging
doesnt make it clear which wheel
eel
types it can be used on, but its good
on chrome, suggesting it can handle
andle
other delicate surfaces. There wass
clear progress in the rinse-only test
and, like Bilt Hamber, it too left clear
lear
sections once the brush was used.
ed. All
this performance for a budget price.
ce.
Rating:
Jaguar All The Cars
Nigel Thorley (Veloce Publishing, www.veloce.co.uk)

Price: 40 Rating:
IT cant be denied that Jaguar

has produced some of the
most beautiful and emotive
cars ever and this book covers
all of them, from the very early
pre-war SS models right up to
the latest F-Pace. Its a pretty
dry read, though, concentrating
on technical specifications
over anything more visually
appealing. Good for the
enthusiast, but thats about all.
Formula 1: All The Races

(3rd edition)
Roger Smith (Evro Publishing, evropublishing.com)

Price: 50 Rating:
A REMARKABLE amount of work

has been put into this book by
author Smith to chart every single
Formula One championship race from
For
1950-2015, including the qualifying
195
results, final outcome and any key
res
events from each GP. Across those
eve
65 years, a total of 935 races are
covered in these pages, and for
cov
anyone with an interest in the history
any
of F1, it makes for essential reading.
Thumb Drift
Available for: iOS, Android
Price: Free Rating:
THIS can be a really challenging

game, but theres a great sense
gam
satisfaction to be had from
of sat
perfecting a drift. The control system
perfec
genius, too by only operating
is gen
cars steering, this is a onethe ca
handed game, making it really easy
play. The fun graphics are also
to pla
cool, although the soundtrack is
coo
annoying wed recommend mute!
ann
App of the week

A
Donington Park Circuit
Available for: iOS, Android

Price: Free Rating:
A DAY out at Donington Park is definitely

enhanced by this app, which allows you to
enhanc
check weather and events before you go,
provides up-to-date lap timing and race
and pr
positioning at the track. You can even stream
positi
Doningtons radio station for live commentary.
Doning
makes your days racing even more exciting.
It mak
Products
Sat-nav apps tested
CoPilot Premium HD Europe

Price: 29.99 on Android, Windows; 25.99 on iOS
Available on: iOS, Android, Windows
Maps: Offline Rating:
BEST BUY A PREVIOUS Best Buy, CoPilots Premium Europe is still
the app to beat. Whether in 2D or 3D mode, the maps perfectly hit

the balance between clarity and providing decent information. Plus,
the app is just as easy to use as the maps are to follow quite
impressive given the advanced features thrown in. These
include learning favoured routes, automatically displaying
alternatives and allowing easy modification by simply
dragging the roads on a map. Traffic info is now free
for a year with Premium, but costs 7.69 thereafter.
TomTom GO Mobile App

Price: Free for 50 miles a month Available on: iOS, Android
RECOMMENDED TOMTOM entices you into the mobile world with

a freebie, but unlike CoPilots free taster version of its all-singing
and dancing Premium, the GO is fully functional, complete with
traffic, all maps and speed camera alerts. However, youre
limited to 50 miles a month unless you splash out 14.99
for one year or 34.99 for three. Our top two are now
reasonably close in terms of price, yet as slick as the
GO is TomTom users will feel at home straight
away CoPilot has the edge for simplicity and features.
Waze
Price: Free
Available: iOS, Android, Windows
Maps: Online Rating:
RECOMMENDED WAZE is a completely free app that relies on
other users inputs to warn of hold-ups, accidents, speed cameras,

roadworks and just about any other road hazard you may approach.
In the past, it only tended to work well in populated areas where
plenty of users were live on the app, but today, Wazes
popularity makes it a reliable and detailed source for
most of the country. Just dont expect the same quality
as TomToms GO or the CoPilot Premium.
Scout
Price: Free Available on: iOS, Android
FORMER favourite Skobbler has a new name, yet the Scout branding
hasnt taken anything away from an excellent sat-nav app. The basic
free version isnt too restricting in daily use, but the best-value
upgrade bundle 14.99 for all maps, plus quality INRIX traffic and
speed camera data takes the cost into TomTom and CoPilot
Premium territory. And as polished as Scout is, its not quite in
the GOs league, with a few bugs that spoiled the experience.
76 4 May 2016
Sat-nav apps tested
SAT-NAV APPS
Products
Which of eight smartphone apps leads the way against standalone navs?
PRODUCT GROUP TEST 4 | 5 | 2016
Every week, we extensively test all the latest car kit from tyres to trim cleaners.
Log on to www.autoexpress.co.uk to look through our huge online test archive.
Google Maps
Price: Free Available on: iOS, Android
GOOGLE Maps is free and comes with most Android

phones. Providing you have decent signal, Google
is everything you need in a sat-nav. Features like
Street View and hybrid mode where the route is
superimposed on aerial photos are impressive.
Even so, there arent as many automotive functions
as driving-focused apps and offline mode is limited.
James Stanbury
THERE are so many reasons

why smartphone-based sat-nav
apps make sense. Your mobile is
almost always with you and ready to
go, and chances are that itll boast
a bigger screen and higher-definition
graphics than standalone navs, too.
Then theres the simple fact that
your mobile can be more than just
a map. Even most of the free apps
here mix offline data with constant
live updates for accidents, speed
cameras and other hazards.
Finally, onboard features often
rival premium standalone devices,
despite the apps costing a fraction
of the price or, often, nothing.
How we
tested them
Navmii
Price: Free Available on: iOS, Android, Windows
THE six-year-old Navmii app has evolved well, with

a tidy look and a similar array of crowd-sourced
hazard information as Waze. Another improvement
is the increase of features that are part of the free
app most of the additional maps we clicked on
were included, as are voices. Only a couple of odd
route choices hindered this excellent all-rounder.
WE tested our apps on iOS, Android

and Windows devices, and as they
all have so many advanced features,
we initially focused on reliability
how accurate the maps, information,
routing and reception were.
We also rated the overall
guidance process, including voice
instructions and graphics used.
Perhaps most importantly, we
checked whether apps could run from
offline data. Apps that primarily work
online can be used without a signal
with pre-planning and downloading
of relevant maps. But they can also
come unstuck in low signal areas
and bump up your data bill.
Verdict
COPILOT scoops our Best Buy
with its Premium, which is
advanced, reliable and
easy to use, while TomToms
GO is a close second. Waze
just holds off competition
from Scout and Google.
1. CoPilot Premium HD Europe
2. TomTom GO Mobile App
3. Waze
Apple Maps
Price: Free Available on: iOS
APPLE Maps got a bad reputation when it first

arrived, with most users choosing to install Google
Maps instead. And the latest version is definitely
playing catch up with its rival. Both apps fail to offer
the level of driver-dedicated service that other
apps provide, yet Apple Maps will happily get
you from A to B if you have a good signal.
Navigon Mobile
Navigator Europe
Price: 59.99 Available on: iOS, Android, Windows
NAVIGON is part of the Garmin empire, and the

stunning graphics really stand out. Plus, its
powerful, easy to use and has a good selection
of features. Yet even though the Mobile Navigator
is impressive, its incredibly expensive, at 59.99,
and its benefits over the free apps are limited.
4 May 2016 77
Buying cars
New and used buying advice
Martin
Saarinen
YOUR VIEWS ON YOUR CARS
Got any car queries?

@AE_Consumer
Renault Kadjar
YOU TELL US... Classy crossover is refined and decent to drive

GOOD
2016 Results
Kadjar Factfile
Sometimes I have to check

that the engine is actually
on its that quiet.
Long journeys pass by
without me noticing.
braking, hands-free parking, Bluetooth and USB
Prices: From 16,000

OVERALL SCORE
93.42%
RELIABILITY
BUILD QUALITY
RUNNING COSTS
PERFORMANCE
ROAD HANDLING
RIDE QUALITY
EASE OF DRIVING
SEAT COMFORT
PRACTICALITY
IN-CAR TECH
Bars show where model

finished out of 150 cars in
our 2016 survey. The lower
the rating the better
150 120
NOT SO GOOD
A PLEASURE to drive. Its

comfortable and spacious.
Years: 2015 to present CO2: 99g/km

Fuel economy: 74.3mpg (1.5 dCi 110)
Best options: Sat-nav, active emergency
75
40
42
12
17
50
11
3
30
7
20
4
rd
3PLACE
THE hill assist holds the car

in place for a moment even
on the smallest inclines.
Irritating in traffic.
I would have liked a spare
wheel in my Kadjar.
The turning circle needs
to be improved.
Fuel economy is good

for such a large car.
Feels faster than the 1.5litre badge would suggest.
The automatic transmission
is very smooth you rarely
notice it changing gears.
I particularly like the
high driving position.
Comes with a lot of kit.
Q
A
Air-con whistles; my dealer

has yet to rectify this.
The R-Link system takes
some getting used to.
Automatic folding mirrors
would be a good addition.
Electronic handbrake
button would be easier to
operate if it was positioned
closer to the gearlever.

Q
A
All change for spare wheel

IM looking to ditch the space-saver in
my car in favour of a full-sized spare
wheel. Would any rim with the same
dimensions as my current set fit?
Brian Beeton, E-mail
WE asked a spokesman from safety group
TyreSafe, and he told us the best option is
to buy a spare wheel made specifically for that
model. Although some wheels from different
makes may be of similar size (and cheaper),
the offset and pitch circle diameter may
differ, which could be potentially dangerous.
How do VED changes work?
IN Issue 1,417, Auto Express mentioned

the Governments upcoming Vehicle Excise
Duty (VED) changes in 2017. Ive recently
changed cars, and want to know if my
Toyota Auris Hybrid will be affected?
James Gaughan, E-mail
NO, the new vehicle excise duty bands
apply only to new cars registered from
1 April 2017 onwards. You will continue
to pay your current tax fees even after that
date. The current tax rates will apply to any
car thats been registered before the date.
Pothole damage query

I FOOLISHLY drove my Ford too fast into
a pothole, and although theres no visible
damage to the wheel, the steering now
vibrates at high speeds. What should I do?
Ronald Wilson, E-mail
IT sounds as if the knock has affected the
wheels balance, despite the lack of visible
damage. We suggest taking your car to
your local Ford dealer for inspection. The
staff there will be able to rebalance
or realign your wheels if necessary.
warrantywise.co.uk
4 May 2016 79
Buyingcars
NEED
TO KNOW
A 2015 facelift saw the introduction

of an optional blind-spot sensor,
which is well worth having.
SEAT Alhambra Mk2
NEED
TO KNOW
Last years revamp also brought

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
as standard across the range.
BUYERS GUIDE: SEAT Alhambra M

FROM 10,000 Old-school MPV offers space and practicality for a great-value price
Richard Dredge
WERE big fans of the SEAT Alhambra.

We crowned it Best MPV at our 2011 New
Car Awards, and our sister title CarBuyer
followed suit in 2012, as the Alhambra
scooped another Best MPV gong.
At the time, we said: These cars are the
multi-tools of the automotive world, and the
SEAT is both incredibly practical and easy to
live with. A smart exterior and classy interior
help seal the deal, while attractive prices
and low running costs take care of your
wallet. But you no longer need to dig deep
for such talents, as prices start at 10,000.
History
THE second-generation Alhambra arrived in

showrooms in November 2010. Predictably,
the focus was on diesel power, with a choice
of 138bhp and 168bhp 2.0 TDI engines.
There was a 148bhp 1.4 TSI petrol motor,
too. Each engine came with a manual box as
standard, with the DSG semi-auto optional;
both units featured six gears. In spring 2013,
the bigger diesel was tweaked to 175bhp,
80 4 May 2016
then in summer 2015 a facelift brought 2.0

TDI engines with either 148bhp or 181bhp.
The 1.4 TSI powerplant was also
reintroduced, having been discontinued
in 2013. At the same time, improved
safety systems and multimedia were
introduced, along with LED tail-lights.
Which one?
ALL Alhambra diesels come with a Diesel

Particular Filter (DPF), so if you dont cover
that many miles, you might be better off
with a 1.4 TSI. The DSG transmission
isnt as reliable as the manual alternative,
but both gearboxes are great to use.
There are three key trim levels: S, SE and
SE Lux. Entry-level cars come with 16-inch
alloy wheels, three-zone climate control,
electronically adjustable and heated door
mirrors and all-round parking sensors.
Plus, Bluetooth, an eight-speaker hi-fi, a
multifunction steering wheel, tyre pressure
monitoring and ESP are also standard.
SE adds automatic lights and wipers,
cruise control and 17-inch alloys, while
SE Lux models feature a powered tailgate

and sliding side doors, a panoramic roof,
leather trim, heated front seats and nav.
for better dynamics, why not give the

surprisingly sporty Ford S-MAX a try?
Alternatives
ALTHOUGH new-car buyers have generally

fallen out of love with MPVs in recent years
as they switch to crossovers, models such as
the Alhambra show that theres still plenty to
love about these hugely practical vehicles.
Despite its size, the SEAT is still good to
drive, and you neednt forego performance
or economy, either to a point. You also
dont need to spend a fortune to buy a well
equipped example, as even the entry-level
cars come with plenty of standard kit.
So far, reliability is also proving to be pretty
good, which helps to cut running costs even
further. So before you buy that crossover for
transporting the family, give an MPV and
specifically the Alhambra some thought.
THE obvious rival is the Ford Galaxy. As the

UKs best-selling MPV, there are lots on the
market, plus its great value and practical.
One of the most capable seven-seater
MPVs around is the Kia Sedona, which is
reliable, very spacious and very affordable.
Its not as good to drive as the Ford, though,
and its not as versatile, either. The Chrysler
Grand Voyager offers stowaway seats, acres
of space and practicality galore, but the
cabin feels cheap in places and the
dynamics arent that impressive.
Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Sharan is
a rebadged Alhambra that costs a bit more,
while if you want to trade a bit of practicality
Verdict
SEAT is incredibly practical and easy to live with. A

smart exterior and classy interior help seal the deal
SEAT Alhambra Mk2
Contact 023 8098 6917
imperialcarsupermarkets.co.uk
Mk2
2013
12
2012
11
2011
14,150 N/A
15,595 N/A
17,595 15,595
19,695 17,395
22,495 19,895
N/A
17,795
22,995 20,250
N/A
N/A
13,850
15,495
17,595
15,795
17,995
9,195 8,275
10,150 8,995
12,350 10,995
13,795 12,295
15,395 13,695
13,795 12,295
15,695 13,950
THE cheapest petrol Mk2 will set you back 8,275,

according to Glasss Guide, but as just one per cent
of models sold are petrol youll do well to pay under
11,500 for an 11-plate 1.4 TSI S with 50,000 miles. A
more realistic option is a Mk2 TDI. There are a handful of
these available with around 100,000 miles for 10,000.
Across the market, nearly half the Alhambras on
sale are autos, and few have done more than 40,000
miles prices start at 14,500. For this, you could
buy a 25,000-mile 12-plate Ecomotive S manual.
Sat-nav
Running costs
IF youre buying
a car without the
integrated navigation,
used head units
can be bought that
simply plug in, giving
you full functionality.
Fuel
economy
CO2
emissions
Annual
road tax
39mpg
37mpg
50mpg
49mpg
48mpg
47mpg
47mpg
167g/km
178g/km
146g/km
149g/km
152g/km
158g/km
154g/km
210
230
145
145
185
185
185
Model
1.4 TSI
1.4 TSI auto
2.0 TDI 140
2.0 TDI 140 auto
2.0 TDI 170
2.0 TDI 177
2.0 TDI 177 auto
Suspension
RATTLES from the

front end as the car
is driven over bumps
will probably be
the drop links in the
suspension. Theyre
easy to replace.
Performance
Running costs
CO2/tax
0-62mph/top speed
50mpg (2.0 TDI 140)
146g/km
10.9 seconds/120mph
75 fill-up
145
18-19
18-19
18
18
21
22
22
ALHAMBRA owners can choose between fixed or variable

maintenance regimes. The former is pegged at 10,000
miles or annually, while the latter allows up to a two-year
or 20,000-mile gap. Services alternate between minor
and major, costing 159 and 269 respectively.
Both the 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TDI have a cambelt, which
should be changed every five years or 60,000 miles; youll
pay 329 to have this work done on a petrol car or 399
on a diesel. The brake fluid needs to be renewed every
two years, at 49, and at the same time the air-con should
be serviced, for 69. Book your service online with a SEAT
dealer, and youll get free European roadside assistance.
Partwatch
www.autoexpress.co.uk/driverpower
Front brake pads (axle set)

Front brake discs (pair)
Door mirror glass (electric)
Front wiper set
THE SEAT Alhambra hasnt charted in

Driver Power for the past three years,
as the popularity of MPVs has waned.
However, other SEAT models have
been rated highly for a generous
kit list on base models and low
running costs. Build quality could
be an issue in the longer term, though.
KAREN Miller from Staffordshire owns a
2013 Alhambra. She says: The SEAT
is the ideal family car, as we can fit
children, pushchairs and shopping
inside, but its not cumbersome to drive.
Its easy to park and economical, too,
and its also well equipped. So far,
its been reliable which is why we
wont change it any time soon.
Independent price
93.05
166.25
52.86
36.23
55.99
89.98
12.94*
32.99
Part
OUR VIEW
YOUR VIEW
Dealer price
For 2012 Alhambra 2.0 TDI 140. Dealer prices SEAT (seat.co.uk).
Independent prices Euro Car Parts (eurocarparts.com). *Price for
offside mirror from carwingmirrors.co.uk; nearside is 9.94.
Recalls
Interior
THE Alhambras spacious and

practical cabin is a great place to
spend time. Theres plenty of head
and legroom, while sliding doors
make it easy to get in and out.
Plus, the second and third rows
fold flat to reveal a 2,297-litre load
bay. This shrinks to only 267 litres
with all of the seats in use, though.
Contacts
Official
www.seat.co.uk
Forums
www.vwaudiforum.co.uk
http://seatowners.club
WHILE the original Alhambra was affected by five recalls,

the Mk2 hasnt been recalled yet. With only one campaign
issued by SEAT each year on average, owners have little
to worry about when it comes to their cars safety.
Since this Alhambra was launched in 2010, SEATs
issued just five recalls, one aimed at the Altea, one at the
Mii and three at the Ibiza. Two were because of potential
airbag issues, two were due to the possibility of fuel leaks,
while the fifth was over bonnet-latching glitches.
4 May 2016 81
Insurance group
Thanks to Imperial
Car Supermarkets in
Hampshire for the loan of
the SEAT Alhambra pictured.
13
14
2014
Model
1.4 TSI S
1.4 TSI SE
2.0 TDI 140 S
2.0 TDI 140 SE
2.0 TDI 140 SE Lux
2.0 TDI 170/177 SE
2.0 TDI 170/177 SE Lux
A-pillar
All Alhambras come with

an electronic parking
brake, and so far
there have been no
reports of problems.
15
2015
ON vehicles with a
panoramic roof, check
the base of each A-pillar
for signs of water leaks.
If the mechanism
has distorted, it
can be costly to fix.
NEED
TO KNOW
How much?
Values courtesy of Glasss Guide
Tom Wood
Tyres
SOME Alhambras
come with run-flat
rubber. These tend to
be more expensive to
replace than regular
tyres and they impact
on the ride as well.
Buyingcars
Buyingcars
Best buys
Car hunter
20,000 for a large, comfortable exec car
CARS
THE DRIVERS CHOICE
Dear Lawrence, My 2008 Jaguar XF is showing its age

and Im thinking about replacing it. I want an exec
thats just as comfy for 20k. What should I go for?
Keith Horrens, E-mail
Contact: Lawrence_Allan@dennis.co.uk
THE RELIABLE CHOICE
THE CLASSY CHOICE
BMW 5 Series
Lexus GS
FOR: Upmarket, refined, loved by owners

AGAINST: Not a fun drive, no diesel option
FOR: Comfortable on road, classy cabin

AGAINST: A bit dated, gruff small diesels
BMWS 5 Series has a reputation for being the exec

for keen drivers, and its easy to see why when you
get behind the wheel. The current model is a very
popular choice and there are plenty on the road,
but it remains one of the best large saloons around.
Its great to drive and feels smaller than it actually
is, plus it offers a composed ride and strong yet
efficient engines. In the classifieds was a 2013 520d
SE Business auto with 24,000 miles for 19,000.
LEXUS isnt always the obvious brand in this class,

but the latest GS is a decent car thats treasured by
its owners. Behind the slightly bland exterior lies an
impeccably built, comfortable and spacious saloon.
This isnt a car for driving enthusiasts, though;
both the 300h and 450h hybrid versions are
refined, but the CVT gearbox isnt great and
theres lots of body roll in corners. We found a 2013
GS 300h Premier with 48,000 miles for 19,750.
MERCEDES has recently launched an all-new E-Class,

but the fourth-generation car still has plenty going for
it. Boxy styling gives away the E-Classs age, yet it
remains classy and the interior feels upmarket.
The drive majors on comfort, too. Most models
offer a cushioned ride, and although the BMW is
more fun to drive, the smooth six-cylinder diesels
are much better than the base engines. We saw a
2013 E350 CDI Sport with 31,000 miles for 19,150.
THE BMW doesnt have the same sense of occasion

as rivals inside, but its all solid and easy to operate.
The seats are very comfortable and the rear is
spacious, while the 520-litre boot is a decent size.
LEXUS has left no stone unturned inside the GS, as its

impeccably built. Plus, even base models come loaded
with equipment. Multimedia controls are a bit fiddly,
but the car is roomy and has the biggest boot here.
CABIN quality is excellent, yet no more upmarket than

rival interiors. And although the dash design is a bit
bland, its easy to get along with. The Mercedes is big in
the back, yet the boot is the smallest of the trio on test.
THE 5 Series finished 53rd in our Driver Power 2016

survey. Although thats the worst position of our trio, its
likely due to the sheer number on the road. Other than
a few small issues, it seems to be mechanically sound.
THE GS finished an excellent fifth place in Driver Power

2016, which is no real surprise given the success of
Lexus models over the years. Scores across the board
are superb, with only running costs letting it down.
THE E-Class finished in a strong 44th place our of 150

cars in our Driver Power 2016 survey. Owners praised
its build quality very highly, while reliability and
comfort scores were generally good, too.
FOR: Great handling, logically laid out cabin

AGAINST: Staidlooks,rivalsmoresoftlysprung
Mercedes E-Class
INTERIOR
RELIABILITY
82 4 May 2016
Buyingcars
Blue-sky
thinking
Which of these eco-focused models is a more wallet-friendly used choice?

Steering lacks
precision and theres
some roll in corners
Golf BlueMotion
is composed and
quiet at a cruise
Mercedes A-Class
VW Golf
60mpg (on test)
57.6mpg (on test)
43 fill-up
54 fill-up
Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion
Mercedes A180 CDI ECO
Years: 2013 to date Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 109bhp

Ins group: 12 Official econ/CO2: 88.3mpg/85g/km
Why? VW Golf is a great family car in any guise, but
this BlueMotion model offers great economy as well.
Prices from:
7,500
THE Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion was one of

the first ultra-efficient family cars on the market,
and a used model promises low CO2 emissions
and decent fuel economy at an affordable price.
Both of these eco models benefit from
lowered suspension in an attempt to reduce
aerodynamic drag, plus bodywork has
been tweaked to make airflow smoother.
The VWs low kerbweight of 1,280kg means
it feels quite nippy, and the slick-shifting
six-speed manual gearbox is good to use.
Not only does it provide accurate shifts, but
the box also eliminates the long-legged feeling
that was a blight of the five-speed boxes in
the previous-generation Golf BlueMotion.
You might find used models without kit
like sat-nav or cruise control, although the
overall usability of the Golf means its your best
bet when looking for a frugal family hatchback.
The Mk7 Golf finished an impressive 27th
in our Driver Power 2016 satisfaction survey,
too up three places from last years poll.
84 4 May 2016
Years: 2014 to date Engine: 1.4-litre 4cyl, 108bhp

Ins group: 16 Official econ/CO2: 78.5mpg/92g/km
Why? Mercedes A-Class looks stylish, has plenty of
kit and will be cheap to run, yet feels a bit sluggish.
Prices from:
BlueMotions cabin is well

built; rear seats are spacious
and add to practical credentials
Stylish interior gives the

Mercedes a modern feel, but
rear space is cramped and dark
VW Golf BlueMotion
VOLKSWAGEN Golf BlueMotion

couldnt quite match the
Mercedes economy on test, but
its a better car to use on a daily
basis. It performs just like a
normal Golf and feels well built.
Mercedes A180
THE A180 CDI ECO is efficient,

yet it feels like the engines been
strangled to reduce emissions.
A vague gearbox and firm ride
also take the edge off an
otherwise appealing package.
13,500
MERCEDES A180 CDI ECO was based on the

standard A180 CDI, but tricks such as lowered
suspension, skinny tyres and longer gearing
have reduced CO2 emissions to 92g/km and
boosted fuel economy to a claimed 78.5mpg.
Like the standard SE model, the ECO gets a
body-coloured two-bar grille and a smooth rear
bumper with a hidden exhaust, while new
16-inch alloys replace the standard wheels.
The A180s sporty design makes for a
slightly cramped interior, and the dark cabin
feels claustrophobic in the rear. Small
back doors make access tricky, too.
In corners, the sports suspension improves
composure and agility, but theres some
body roll and the steering lacks precision.
The firmer suspension also spoils comfort,
with the A-Class feeling unsettled by bumps
in town or on motorways. Like the VW, the
Mercedes is free to tax annually, yet it
couldnt match its rival in Driver Power 2016,
finishing in 86th place out of 150 cars.
6-8 May 2016, Battersea Park
EXCLUSIVE ticket offer

for Auto Express readers
Save 10% on ticket prices
Buy tickets to the London Motor Show using our unique
discount offer to save 10% on the admission price. Auto
Express is delighted to be supporting the inaugural show
and is working with the World Car of the Year Awards
to provide readers with this incredible saving. To make
the most of this offer, simply head to the website
below and enter your discount code. Whats more, the

organisers of the event have kindly agreed to donate a
further 10% of each ticket sale to the Marcus Rutherford
Foundation/Young Adult Cancer Trust a charity set up
by Auto Express contributor and World Car of the Year juror
Mike Rutherford in memory of his son, who died in 2012.
We very much look forward to seeing you at the show.

FOR TICKETS HEAD TO
www.thelondonmotorshow.co.uk
MOTORSHOW.indd 1
DISCOUNT CODE
WCOTY2016
15/04/2016 17:30
Sport
Brits ready for DTM challenge
All the action from the world of motorsport
Hockenheim kick-starts 2016

Three-way battle in prospect
Stephen Errity
Stephen_Errity@dennis.co.uk
HOCKENHEIM is the venue for this

weekends opening round of the 2016
DTM German touring car championship.
As with last year, theres a four-strong
contingent of Brits on the grid two at
Mercedes and one each at Audi and BMW.
At Mercedes, Gary Paffett and Paul di
Resta face the biggest challenge as the
manufacturer introduces new bodywork to
reflect the latest version of C-Class Coup
road car. Although the DTMs technical
regulations are frozen, brands are allowed
to make visual updates to their cars to
mirror their current road-car ranges.
Mercedes DTM boss Ulrich Fritz said:
While the car has changed visually, we
werent allowed to improve any of the
performance-relevant aerodynamic parts
below what is called the design line. The
challenge is to combine the aerodynamics
of the old car with the shape of the new car.
The car now looks really great, for sure,
but it also presents us with problems that
need solving. Our competitors certainly
have an advantage in that respect. Nothing
has changed on their cars, so they can rely
on experience from the last few years.
Audi, meanwhile, will be looking to
improve on its consistency, after winning
10 times in 18 races during 2015, but still
ending up second in both the driver and
manufacturer standings at the end of the
year. Brit Jamie Green was runner-up to
champion Pascal Wehrlein, whos since
graduated to Formula One with Manor.
Dieter Gass, Audis DTM boss, admitted:
On some tracks, we didnt extract the
BIG THREE
Mercedes, Audi
and BMW will
once again lock
horns in DTM,
with frozen
technical rules
and a success
ballast system
set to ensure
close racing
Mercedes has introduced

new bodywork to reflect
the latest C-Class Coup
BRIT PACK
di Resta, Paffett,
Green and Blomqvist (l to r) are ready
for another year of DTM competition
maximum and failed to score points on
too many occasions. Weve worked on
improving these areas over the winter.
At BMW, Tom Blomqvist is embarking
on his second season in the DTM, having
managed a win at Oschersleben in 2015.
The win definitely came as a relief,
he said after testing. I knew I had the
pace it was just a case of everything
coming together. I feel better prepared
than last season everything was new
then, but I now know what to expect.
Brundle heads back to Le Mans

MARTIN Brundle, the 1990 Le Mans 24
Hours winner and current Sky Sports F1
commentator, will be reunited with the
legendary French circuit this summer.
Hes set to drive a United Autosportsentered Ligier LMP3 car in the inaugural
one-hour Road to Le Mans support race,
which takes place on the morning of 18 June,
just before the 24 Hours gets under way.
Co-driving the car will be Christian
England, who shares it with Brundles
son Alex in the European Le Mans Series.
Brundle last drove at Le Mans in 2012,
when he contested the full 24-hour race
for Greaves Motorsport in the LMP2 class.
This golden opportunity allows me
to drive the full Le Mans circuit again in
a prototype racecar, he said. Its always
96 4 May 2016
Audi seeks Spa

success in WEC
BACK TO
THE TRACK
Brundle will
race Le Mans
curtain-raiser
event in LMP3class Ligier (r)
a pleasure and privilege to drive that magnificent track, so

I grabbed the opportunity to rejoin United Autosports after
a successful race with them at Daytona in 2011. At 57 years
old, I consider this a wonderful and unexpected bonus.
The Road to Le Mans race also sees Brundle reunited with
the Ligier name, who he drove for in F1 in 1993 and 1995.
AUDI is looking to bounce back from its

Silverstone disqualification as the World
Endurance Championship heads to SpaFrancorchamps in Belgium this weekend.
The #7 R18 of Andre Lotterer, Marcel
Fassler and Benoit Treluyer (above) was
first on track last time out at Silverstone,
but later failed post-race scrutineering.
That handed victory to the Porsche of
Romain Dumas, Neel Jani and Marc Lieb.

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BIG bosses at large car companies dont

do happy or relaxed. Agonising over if
they have the right products, the energy for
more battles with rival rms or cash to pay
tens or hundreds of thousands of workers
such anxieties generate sleepless nights.
But Young-Han Song and Sanjeev Saksena,
managing directors at SsangYong World
HQ in the trendy Gangnam district of Seoul,
qualify as the most chilled and smiley motor
industry chiefs Ive ever met. They invited
me over for a cuppa, and hugely impressed
me with their biscuits, humour, honesty
and refusal to conform to industry norms.
For example, you might assume every
SsangYong engineering, design or other
Motorings most outspoken and
important decision must be born in-house,
opinionated columnist sounds off
at parent company Mahindra or inside the
hallowed walls of sister rm, Pininfarina.
SsangYong doesnt
Not so. Yes, Mahindra is the nancial
want to be the most
daddy, keen to maximise its investments,
and therell inevitably be engineering
exciting car firm on
services and design skills from Pininfarina
the world stage but
working on SsangYong car building. Equally
without knowing it,
certain is that Pininfarina badges will appear
its one of the coolest
on upmarket SsangYongs in the near future.
But as Messrs Song and Saksena explain,
this doesnt mean that those from outside the family cant pitch in.
Whether its in engineering, technology, design or alternative-fuel elds,
external ideas will be welcomed and if better than those in-house, adopted.
SsangYongs the car company that wants to hear from allcomers,
Saksena insists. This is best for the customers. Its customer rst,
then the company. So what can the consumer expect when buying a
reinvented Ssangyong from the expanding model line-up (Issue 1,419)?
Value for money is the core issue, says Song.When you think
SsangYong, think RPS robust, premium, specialist. OK, I see that
robustness and specialist are strong SsangYong qualities, but premium?
Yes premium. Not necessarily image, but in areas such as production
and product quality, Song continues. Our goal is to be South Koreas
version of Land Rover, although were the rst to admit that we
cant be a real Land Rover in terms of branding or pricing!
SsangYong isnt and doesnt want to be the most exciting car rm
on the world stage. But without even knowing it, its certainly one
of the coolest. And, thanks to the sub-13k price tag its stuck on
the Tivoli, its responsible for the best value SUV on the planet.
Mike
Rutherford
Do you agree with Mike?
Have your say at facebook.com/autoexpress
@The_Rutherford
next
week
DRIVEN
Alfa Giulia
Our rst chance to get behind the wheel

of eagerly awaited new BMW 3 Series rival
TESTED
M2 vs rivals
BMW goes head-to-head with Ford Focus

RS and Audi RS3 in our sizzling triple test
DRIVEN
New Fiat Tipo
Famous name returns to Britain on back to

basics hatch and we get behind the wheel
News Product tests

Drives Features & Sport
on sale
Wednesday 11 May
Contents are subject to change
98 4 May 2016
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