UK Car Release Dates

The pioneer in hot hatchbacks - the Volkswagen Golf - is back with some new engine and model versions for 2012. Although many rival automotive brands have caught up with the Golf in terms of popularity, sales and technological advancement over the years, the VW Golf’s reputation alone still gives it a notch of an advantage over its counterparts with regards to buyer preference particularly in the European market. The 2012 version of the VW Golf is now available for sale in the UK as a 3-door or 5-door hatchback with 5 distinct models but with the same core values- fun to drive, solidly built and competitively priced.

Without further ado, here are the five 2012 Golf models and its respective trims and base prices which are as follows: The entry level Golf starting at £15,850 up to £21,310 with 4 trims namely the S, the Match, the Blue Motion and the GT. For those who love the sun and driving with the roof down, there’s the all-new Golf Cabriolet model which is only sold as a 2-door version with 3 trims starting with the S at £20,720, the SE for £22,455, and the GT for £25,295.

The Golf Plus is a roomy version of the entry level model and comes available with 5 doors in 2 variants with the S at £15,780 and the SE at £19,370. For those who like more room for the family, there’s the Golf Estate with three trims starting with the S (£17,960), the SE (£20,095), and the Sportline (£21,965).

And last but certainly not the least among them, the world renowned Golf GTI model which is favored by car reviewers and enthusiasts alike. This is the most powerful and sporty version and comes in four trims namely the GTD (£24,635), the GTI (£25,305), the GTI Edition 35 (£27,525), and the top of the model line Golf R (£31,420).

With the exception of the Golf Blue Motion trim which is powered solely by a fuel efficient 1.6L 105hp turbo-diesel engine, any other Golf model can be had in three variants of the 5-cylinder petrol engines (two 1.2L with 85hp and 105hp; and a 1.4L with 122hp) and four variants of the 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engines (two 1.6TDi with 90hp and 105hp; a 1.6L Blue Motion Technology with 105hp; and a 2.0TDi 140hp). A standard five or six-speed manual gearbox transfers power to the front wheels although an optional six or seven-speed automatic transmission is also available.

Even though the 2012 VW Golf is deemed a tad expensive compared to other cars in its class, its long list of standard amenities, safety features and overall fun factor will do justice to its asking price. Nothing else out there can compare to the 35 years of constant evolution by the VW Golf, testament to the company’s pursuit of delivering to the consumers a vehicle with a fun to drive dynamics in an overall quality package.

VW Golf, hatchback

Newly redesigned for 2012, the venerable Vauxhall Zafira is now available for sale in the UK where it has made a mark as a favorite among soccer moms and fleet car companies alike. The 2012 Vauxhall Zafira, classified as a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), has been updated from previous model years to give other automotive brands in its segment a run for their money. The changes are not just in aesthetics alone but also underneath the bonnet as well as upgrades to the interior. The Zafira has also retained its build quality which the UK motoring show Top Gear has described as “solidly bolted… which is just as well given the attack it will come under from tiny hands."

The Vauxhall Zafira will be powered by three petrol and two diesel engines. For the petrol versions, buyers can choose from the following: a 1.6i 16-valve four pot with VVT, two 140hp 1.8i 16-valve VVT (manual 5-speed and Easytronic). The diesel engine will come in only one spec but with two different horsepower outputs: 1.7CDTi 16v ecoFLEX engine with manual 6-speed in 110hp and 125hp respectively.

There are six available Zafira models and trims buyers can choose from, namely: the Expression and Life (£13,995), the Exclusiv (£18,560), the Excite (£20,800), the top of the line Elite (£24,245), and the Design trim which is actually the only Zafira model that buyers can customize. There are also non-air conditioned models made available only for the 1.6i Expression trim with the 5-speed manual transmission.

Among the basic standard features and amnities includes the following: air conditioning (starting with Life models), CD player/stereo radio, 12-volt auxiliary power socket, power-assisted steering with ABS, Electronic Stability Programme-plus with traction control, dual front and seat side-impact airbags, full-size curtain airbags, electric door mirrors and front windows, remote controlled central deadlocking, adjustable steering wheel, the Flex7® seating system, and a lot more.

It has also been announced that the new Zafira Tourer, which was previewed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, will hit UK showrooms by early 2012. Along with it comes two new engines, a 1.4 Turbo petrol and a 2.0 CDTi diesel with three various horsepower ratings rumoured to be between the 110 to 165 range. This incoming 2012 Zafira Tourer model will also raise the bar for design, luxury, flexibility and innovation in the MPV sector, as per the Vauxhall press release. Now that is something to look forward to.

Vauxhall Zafira, MPV, multi-purpose vehicle

Known as the Opel brand in other parts of the world, the Vauxhall name has been part of the UK automotive industry for years. The brand is known for producing otherwise average vehicles for the UK market. But since the onset of automotive globalization the company has started to produce well-built vehicles, and one of those is the all-new for 2012 Vauxhall Corsa which is sold as a 3-door or 5-door hatchback in UK as of the moment. For new car buyers, here are some new features of the 2012 Vauxhall Corsa which you might strongly consider for your next vehicle purchase.

For starters, there’s an all new range of Vauxhall ECOTEC® engines to choose from beginning with the petrol engines. The 2012 Corsa models are now powered by three new Euro 5-compliant ECOTEC petrol engines – the lightweight 1.0 litre 12v engine that delivers 65PS; and the 1.2 and 1.4 litre units which feature 16 valves and variable valve timing (VVT) technology allowing both to produce 85PS and 100PS respectively. Both engine technology specs also provide most of the maximum torque across a wide rev band making for easy overtaking or cruising on the highway.

Next up are the Corsa’s new range of turbo inter-cooled diesel engine range which feature a diesel particulate filter (DPF) that gives a good combination of performance, refinement and efficiency in one package. The new range-topping 1.7CDTi 16v ecoFLEX (130PS) joins three variations of the 1.3CDTi 16v: the 75PS ecoFLEX, a 95PS ecoFLEX unit with Start/Stop as standard and a 1.3 95PS ecoFLEX engine available on the upper trim levels. Most of the 2012 Vauxhall Corsa models will come with a five or six-speed manual gearbox while the rest of the range comes with an available sophisticated four-speed automatic (1.4i 16v) and five-speed Easytronic (1.2i 16v) transmissions.

There are also various model trims to be had with the 2012 Corsa of which are listed as the following: the base model Expression (£8,995), the upgraded S (£11,625), the Exclusiv (£12,530), the Excite (£13,010), the SXi (£13,520), the SE (£14,865), the sporty Limited Edition (£15,080) and SRi (£15,600), and the top of the line VXR (£18,900). Included as standard amenities and safety features starting from the base model and above are as follows: Speed-sensitive power-assisted steering; electrically operated front windows and adjustable door mirrors; Remote-controlled central deadlocking; Mobile phone system with Bluetooth®; Air conditioning; Multi-function trip computer; Leather-covered sports steering wheel with audio controls; CD player with MP3 format/auxiliary-in socket/stereo radio; Rain-sensitive windscreen wipers; Anti-lock braking system with brake assistance; Electronic engine deadlock immobilizer; Driver’s and front passenger’s dual-stage airbags; Front seat side-impact and full-size curtain airbags among many others.

For all those loyal owners of the Vauxhall/Opel Corsa model who have been waiting to upgrade their old ones, now would be the perfect time to get your hands on a new one.

Vauxhall Corsa

The Vauxhall Vectra is also known as the Chevrolet Vectra in North America, the Holden Vectra in Australia and as the Opel Vectra in other parts of the world. It is classified and sold a large four-door family saloon, estate or as a 5-door hatchback powered by various choices of petrol or diesel engines mated to a five or six-speed manual gearbox. We start with the petrol in choices of the following: a 140bhp 1.8-litre ECOTEC with VVT, a 172bhp 2.0 turbo, a 155bhp 2.2-litre inline-4, and a 2.8-litre 250bhp V6 turbo. For the diesels there’s a 1.9-litre CDTi diesel with 120bhp or 150bhp, a 175bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4, and an available 181bhp 3.0 turbocharged V6 CDTi.

Among the amenities and safety features included in the Vauxhall Vectra includes leather and aluminum inserts and trimming, AM/FM radio with CD, electric windows and mirrors, air conditioning, power assisted steering with cruise control, front fog lights, 17” aluminum wheels with ABS, driver and front passenger airbags, among many other. Prices start at £14,750 for the 1.8 Vectra Exclusiv hatchback, £15,750 for the Estate, and £17,995 for the Signum Exclusiv.

Vauxhall has followed the recipe of not changing anything that is working well and the current Vectra model is testament to this for it has indeed seemingly worked well for the company, so much so as not to merit a makeover for the time being. The 2012 Vauxhall Vectra currently available for sale in the UK market is actually a carryover from the previous model year and is virtually unchanged. Since there are no redesign in the horizon for the Vectra (although there’s a rumoured replacement), loyal fans of this vehicle may still get to own the different models and trims that British families and even UK fleet car companies have found serviceable though the years

Vauxhall Vauxhall Vectra

Vauxhall, an automotive division of General Motors, has recently released for 2012 their newly redesigned Astra model lineup. It is being offered as a 5-door hatchback to compete in the suddenly crowded European compact vehicle category with the UK as its primary target market. There will be a variety of new revolutionary petrol and diesel engines made available to power the Astra starting with three ECOTEC petrol engines– two different specs of 1.4i inline-4 with outputs of 87hp and 100hp, and a 1.6i producing a modest 115hp.

The ECOTEC diesel engines on the other hand will come in two all-new inline-4 specifications with common rail multi-injection and variable geometry turbocharger: a 4-cylinder 1.4i producing 140hp and the proven 1.6i with a 180 horsepower rating. As if those are not enough, Vauxhall has also introduced their lineup of all-new ecoFLEX diesel units: a 1.3CDTi engine good for 95hp, a pair of 1.7CDTi versions producing 110hp and 125hp respectively, and the range topping 2.0CDTi that gives out a torque filled 165hp for smooth acceleration. All engine variations will come with 16-valves and variable valve timing (VVT) technology to produce better fuel economy and mileage.

Those engines will then find a place under the bonnet of any of the nine model trims for the new Vauxhall Astra. The base models Expression and ES will start at a reasonably priced £12,995. The other trims and its expected starting prices are as follows: Exclusiv (£16,670), Excite (£17,435), SRi (£18,635), ES Tech (£19,035), SE (£20,100), SRi VX Line (£20,825), and the aptly named top of the line Elite (£21,125).

Since the Vauxhall Astra has a lot of competition in its class, it has been given a host of the usual standard goodies, and then some, of which are listed next. Some cabin amenities include aircon, radio CD player with MP3 and aux-in socket, electric front windows, seat height adjuster, electrically adjustable/heated door mirrors, adjustable steering column, steering wheel mounted audio controls (from mid-tier trims), mobile phone system with Bluetooth®, satellite navigation system with 7” colour monitor, USB connection with iPod control, among many others.

Safety equipments includes Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with ABS, driver/ front passenger/ curtain airbags, remote controlled alarm system with central locking, cruise control, rain-sensitive windscreen wipers, automatic lighting control, anti-dazzle rear-view mirror, to name a few. There is also the revolutionary Start/Stop System which comes standard with the 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX and the more powerful (165PS) 2.0CDTi 16v engines. If you want to tick the option box, go for the Sportive Pack comprising of unique front bumper, side sills, rear lower skirt, rear spoiler and body colour grille bar. You will discover that you can never go wrong in making the Vauxhall Astra hatchback sportier than it already looks.

Vauxhall Astra, hatchback

French carmaker Peugot has recently released for sale in the UK the 2012 iteration of its popular hatchback, the 207 model lineup. Not much has changed from the previous model except for some minor details such as creases in the body panels to make it look more attractive, LED tail lights and sculpted headlights, a new cabin interior layout with tech trims and of course, pricing.

The new Peugeot 207 is offered as a 3-door or 5-door hatchback powered by either a diesel or petrol engine with 5-speed manual transmission or available 4-speed automatic, depending on model trim. There are three different specs of diesel HDI engines: a 1.4L with 70hp and two 1.6L variants with 90hp and 110hp respectively, while the petrol engine comes in two versions with varying degrees of horsepower that are listed as follows: 1.4L inline-4 with 74hp, 90hp and 95hp and 1.6L inline-4 with 120hp, 150hp and 175hp.

The new Peugeot 207 still retains the good looks that gave it a decent following in Britain but that’s just about all that it can gather when pitted against popular hot hatch rivals like the Honda Jazz, Ford Focus and VW Golf. Long on looks but short in performance, the blame goes to the questionable choice of otherwise anemic petrol engines to match the 207s quality build and sporty demeanor. Despite that setback, car reviewers still gave praise to its decent lineup of frugal diesel powerplants.

As for the available trims and pricing for the 2012 Puegeot 207, the available models start with the basic Access, the upgraded Active, the mid-tier Sportium, the top of the line Allure, and the diesel-only Oxygo and Oxygo+ of which are the most fuel efficient of the bunch with a range of 74 miles to the gallon. Prices start for as low as £9,995 for the basic Access up to £16,145 for the Allure 1.6 HDI.

What the Peugeot 207 lacks in performance it makes up for in creature comfort and safety features. Inside the cabin one will find available standard features like aircon, cruise control, CD/radio with MP3 and available Bluetooth, power steering/door locks/mirror/windows, leather trims for the upscale models, Emergency Brake Assist, stability control system with ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution, static directional headlights, front/side and curtain airbags, and alloy wheels among others.

The French may be known for the finer things in life such as architecture, arts, wine, food, sidewalk cafés, fine dining, fashion, designer labels and even croissants… but really not so much for cars. So for those who are enamoured by the 2012 Peugeot 207’s overall styling and can’t resist buying one, they will be better off driving out the dealer’s lot with the diesel version.

Peugeot 207, hatchback

It is an extraordinary feat for an American automotive company to corner a good chunk of the European market, particularly in the UK where it is considered to be the melting pot for the global automotive industry. Vehicles of all makes, brands and models is a common sight in the country which is why its surprising to see the Ford Mondeo fitting in nicely with dominant European brands such as BMW and Audi, even if the bulk of this particular model’s sales revenue come from the fleet industry.

One of Ford’s secret to success is catering to the tastes of the UK market and then building a solid line of products using quality materials and revolutionary engines. The Ford Mondeo is no exception and testament to this is its ability to establish a stronghold in the rental fleet business through the years and eventually trickling down to individual sales. Taking things a step further, the Mondeo has been redesigned for 2012 using Ford’s Kinetic Design and ECOnetic technologies, both resulting in improved fuel efficiency and matching good looks.

The 2012 Ford Mondeo is now available for sale in the UK as a stylish 5-door hatchback or estate. There are five models available namely the Edge, Zetec, Titanium, Titanium X and the Titanium X Sport. Prices start for as low as £17,795 for the base Edge model up to £26,845 for the top of the line Titanium X Sport version. Included among the standard features (depending on model tier) are the following: radio/CD with USB connectivity and voice control system, leather steering wheel, CFC-free air conditioning, keyless start with start/stop button, courtesy and entry lights, power windows, power folding mirrors, heated windscreen and rear window, auto start/stop system, anti-theft system, remote alarm with central lock system, airbags for safety, stability control system with ABS, and alloy wheels, to name just a few.

The five model trims available for the Mondeo are also equipped with different diesel and petrol engine configurations which have auto start-stop system to reduce emissions. The engine displacements can be had in the turbocharged 1.6L and 2.0L EcoBoost petrol powerplants producing 160 and 240 horsepower respectively; and the 1.6L (115hp) and 2.0L (163hp) Duratorq TDCi turbocharged diesel engines.

Although a 5-speed manual is standard, there is also an available new powertrain called the Ford PowerShift which uses an advanced 6-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission that selects the next proper gear for your driving speed at the right moment giving better fuel efficiency and mileage. To top it all, buyers will also get the chance to use Ford’s configurator tool which basically gives them the option to tweak their desired Mondeo model according to their own specification.

Ford Mondeo, hatchback, estate

There was a time when small cars were passed up for saloons and SUVs for bigger engines, more cabin space and amenities. Snubbed for their cramped space, weak engines and overall size that makes it dangerous to drive on the freeway, these “econoboxes” were left to rot in dealers' lots, or if it ever gets there at all. But times have changed in favor of fuel efficiency, savings, and green ratings that these subcompacts have been flying out of dealers’ lots faster than one can say “There’s another one!”. 

Yes, zippy little cars are back upon us with a vengeance and car companies have been upping the ante by producing safer subcompacts with different models and engine specifications to entice buyers with frugality and practicality in mind. One such little car is the 2012 Ford Fiesta which has been getting warm reviews for a few years now, not just for its preppy but fuel efficient engines and delightful handling but for its overall build quality as well. In countries such as the UK where heavy vehicular traffic and narrow city streets are as common as Elton John look-alikes and parking space is as rare as a UFO sighting, the subcompact Ford Fiesta is definitely most at home.

Now available for sale in the UK, the 2012 Fiesta starts at a reasonably priced £9,495 for the basic Fiesta Studio model up to £15,845 for the high-end Titanium ECOnetic model. Unlike in the US where there is only one powertrain available, the Euro-spec Fiesta will be powered by any of two diesel or three petrol engines which are all designed to be very fuel efficient and tuned for sporty aggression when need be. The diesels will be offered in 1.4 litre or 1.6 litre TDCi Duratorq spec while the petrol ones will come in 1.25L, 1.4L and 1.6 litre 4-cylinder 16-valve specifications.

Standard equipment and amenities for all models include 12V power socket, radio/CD player with auxiliary inputs, A/C, electric power assisted steering, electronic stability with ABS, and the usual airbags for safety. Extras are also added as you move up on each model tier such as Bluetooth connectivity, chrome and leather trimmings, auto temperature control, sports seats and a lot more. All 2012 Fiesta models will have the standard 5-speed transmission with an optional 4-speed automatic transmission only made available for models powered with the 1.4 litre petrol engine. Buyers will also have the choice of using Ford’s configurator tool to build their desired Ford Fiesta model.

There will also be ten different Fiesta trims available, giving buyers enough to choose from of which are as follows: Studio, Style, Edge, Edge ECOnetic, Zetec, Zetec S, Zetec ECOnetic, Titanium, Titanium ECOnetic, and the new Metal. There’s even a limited edition 2012 Ford Fiesta S1600 134PS of which is a sport performance version derived from the Zetec S trim. So, regardless of which model one ends up driving off the dealer’s lot, the Fiesta will undoubtedly turn heads wherever it goes.

Ford Fiesta, hatchback, subcompact

Anyone looking to buy a solid entry-level luxury sedan need not look any further than the BMW 3 Series lineup. The car company has had a strong foothold in the luxury sedan segment for years and it has been the barometer for which its competitors have been chasing after. While the notion that European car brands are prohibitively expensive compared to its Asian counterparts may be true, BMW has still kept to its tested recipe of blending refinement, durability and competitive pricing to produce unmatched success in this niche luxury level market.

Scheduled for release in the UK on February 11, 2012, the BMW 3 Series as an entry-level saloon offers affordable opulence in more than just one package. As a matter of fact, in the UK alone there are five trims, seven engines and a very long list of mouthwatering options to be had that even the car dealers themselves get lost in the numbers. Shopping for a new 2012 BMW 3 Series could be a daunting task if one has no idea what the numbers on the different models denotes to. So to keep things simple, a record below is listed according to the series of the engine model so as not to get confused with the different trims, prices and specs.

The 316d, 318d and 320d are all 2.0 litre, inline-4 twin-turbocharged diesel engines with 116hp, 143hp and 184hp respectively. The 320i (184hp), 328i (245hp), 335i (306hp) are all 6-cylinder turbocharged petrol engines with varying degrees of horsepower and fuel economy ratings. Those engine specs are what powers the following 2012 BMW 3-Series trims:

• The basic ES model with the 316d has an entry price for luxury that starts at £24,880.
• The SE trim starts at £25,860 and can be had in the following models: 320i, 328i, 316d, 318d, 320d EfficientDynamic/SE. The 320d EfficientDynamics is a tuned down version of the 320d and is designed for fuel efficiency rated at 68.9mpg. It still has 163 horses on tap when needed to accelerate or overtake on the open road.

• The Sport trim, which starts at £26,860, can be had in: 320i, 316d, 318d, 320d versions.
• The Modern trim costs between £26,860 to £35,525  is has th efollowing variants: 320i, 328i, 335i, 318d, 320d.
• The top of the line Luxury trim costs for as much as £37,025 also carries the same engines as the Modern trim under the bonnet but has more feature amenities inside.

A 6-speed manual transmission and RWD is standard for all models and so are the following: Bluetooth telephone preparation, USB audio interface, 6.5" high-resolution Control Display and iDrive controller, 17” alloy wheels (18” for Luxury trim) with run-flat tyres, front/side/curtain airbags, Dynamic Stability Control with ABS, remote alarm with immobiliser, power locks/windows and a host of safety features. There’s also a long list of class-leading optional extras that would rival Santa’s list but one thing is clear: getting any one of the different BMW 3 Series models is worth the splurge.

BMW 3 Series, luxury, sedan

The UK’s best-selling car to date happens to be a hot hatch wearing an American badge and it is by no means a pushover. Ford’s hottest selling model, the redesigned 2012 Ford Focus, is now available in the UK as a five door hatchback or estate with a variety of trim levels and engines plus a long list of goodies that will rival your local candy shop. The Focus is also reasonably priced and with good reason, Ford Motors has targeted the European market in its global mission to bring forth a Ford in every driveway and make the Ford Focus a global car. 

Prices will start at £15,800 and for that amount one might expect a bare-bones vehicle. But surprisingly, consumers will get more standard equipments than what the Ford Focus’ closest rival could offer. The entry-level Focus Edge model comes with a well-designed interior and quality materials are used all over. There’s a standard voice-controlled digital radio with Bluetooth and USB connection, aircon, power door locks/mirrors/ front windows, stability and torque control systems, anti-lock brakes, and front/side/curtain airbags for safety. An upgrade to the sporty Focus Zetec trim will include keyless entry, automatic headlights, rear spoiler for the hatchback, 16” alloy wheels and a sportier suspension setting. The top spec trim, the Titanium X, would set you back around £25,250 and for that price you get all standard amenities plus leather trims and heated seats, MyFord Touch technology, xenon headlights, LED park lights, one-touch folding side mirrors, 17” alloy wheels, and parking assist sensors among others. 

The 2012 Ford Focus will be powered by three different types of engines, all with frugality in mind. Buyers get to choose from two types of turbo diesels: first is a 1.6L TDCi with 115hp while the other is a 2.0TDCi with a smooth 150 hp under the bonnet. Then there’s the 1.6 litre, 4-cylinder 150 horsepower EcoBoost petrol engine that sips fuel at a rate of 40mpg. All power generated by these engines is thrown to the front wheels through a standard 5-speed manual gearbox, with a 6-speed automatic transmission listed as optional. 

Also included for the 2012 Ford Focus is a host of options and packages for upgrades such as Super Economy Fuel Package, Convenience Package, Sport Package plus the newly developed pop-out Door Edge Protector, a cushion strip that helps prevent car park-related property damages and will come in handy for those who have kids with them in the car.

There are also two new Ford Focus models worth waiting for to go on sale in the UK early in 2012. The first is the Ford Focus ECOnetic which uses a more frugal engine that is rated to consume 80 mpg and the second one is the all-new zero emission Focus Electric. Although actual prices and launch dates are still to be determined as of press time, these models are sure worth the wait if you are in the market for a new car.

Ford Focus, hatchback

The Suzuki Jimny is the off road vehicle of choice for the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution). These red Jimnys can be seen in the Sefton Beaches in the North West; South Hams in Devon, Bournemouth, Poole and Constantine Bay in North Cornwall. The Suzuki Jimny is being used for beach patrol with its push button 4WD and light weight allows for lifeguards to be closer to the shore reducing response time as well as being a visual reference for beach goers in case of an emergency.

The Jimny was the first compact SUV built and after 41 years since it was introduced in 1970 it remains a lightweight and affordable capable SUV on or off road. For the 2011 year line-up Suzuki gives us a choice of two models the SZ3 with a 5-speed manual transmission at an OTR of £11,905 and the new SZ4 with a 4-speed automatic transmission at an OTR of £13,310.00 and with the 5-speed manual transmission with an OTR of £12,435.00.

Both models are available with a 1.3 Lt. 16 valves petrol engine with VVT, multipoint fuel injection, a 9.5 0.2:1 compression ratio and a maximum power output of 85PS/110 Nm. Combined fuel consumption is of 39.8 mpg with manual transmission and of 38.7 mpg with the automatic transmission. Co2 emissions are at 162 g/km for manual and at 167 g/km for automatic transmission.

All models are equipped with standard features such as power steering, heated electric door mirrors, remote central door locking, front electric windows, remote fuel lid opener and CD tuner with RDS and two speakers. Under safety and security you will get both driver and front passenger airbags, ABS and side impact protection beams among other features. Suzuki also offers a soft top version as well and the good news is that it doesn’t cost more than the hard top version.

Suzuki Suzuki Jimny, 4X4

The Antara is a design that was developed between Opel, General Motors and GM Daewoo. It is based off the Theta platform, it shares its chassis and powertrain with the Chevrolet Captiva, but its interior and exterior design are completely different. In the UK is sold as the Vauxhall Antara.

For the 2011 year model a facelift was done, both front and rear lights were redesigned, the new Vauxhall badge was added. A shift-up indicator has been included to optimize fuel economy in the vehicles equipped with a manual transmission. Electric parking brake and a hill assistance system has also been added.

The 2011 Vauxhall Antara is Euro 5 compliant with its new 2.2 CDTi ECOTEC diesel engine with a choice of 120 kW or 135 kW, a 6-speed manual transmission is standard equipment, but you have the option of a 6-speed ActiveSelect automatic transmission. Combined fuel consumption is estimated at 36.2 mpg.

The 2011 Vauxhall Antara with a starting OTR of £19,995.00 is available in three trims the Antara E with intelligent four-wheel drive, 17-inch alloy wheels and Switchable Electronic stability Programme (ESP), the Antara S features Electronic Climate Control (ECC), cruise control and 18-inch alloy wheels and the Antara SE with satellite navigation, parking distance sensors and leather seats and door facings.

The Antara can be equipped as well with an electronically controlled AWD system that delivers power to each tyre depending on road and driving conditions. To increase occupant’s safety it is equipped with the CBC (cornering brake control) to improve stability when braking in curves, the HBA (hydraulic brake assistance) it increases braking pressure to reduce braking distance. There is also the Descent Control System (DCS); this allows the vehicle to maintain preselected speed during steep descents.

Overall the New 2011 Vauxhall Antara is an elegant all-wheel-drive crossover that delivers performance and safety at a reasonable price tag.

Vauxhall Vauxhall Antara, 4X4

For the first time since the 1980s Volkswagen is introducing a pick-up truck in the UK for the 2011 year model line-up, the VW Amarok, with its twin-turbo 2.0 litre BiTDI engine that delivers 163PS of power and 400 Nm of torque, don’t be alarmed the Amarok’s remarkable power doesn’t affect fuel efficiency and its low CO2 emissions makes it Euro 5 compliant. Initially it will be available as a double-cab only, but a single cab version has already been displayed at the Hanover Commercial Vehicle Show.

The Amarok is available in three trims, the Startline starting at £16.995.00, the Trendline at £16.995.00 and the Highline will start at £21,575.00. All models are available with the 4MOTION selectable 4-wheel drive system, this offers drivers the choice between rear-wheel to four-wheel drive and/or low 4-wheel drive range all from the touch of a button right on the dashboard.

Despite the lower level in design compared to other VW cars, the interior places this pick-up truck on the next level, the quality of the work is exceptional, with functional and appealing surfaces. On the road the 2011 VW Amarok is remarkable its off-road capabilities are impressive, its suspension and mechanical locks on the centre and rear differentials and traction control allows the driver to be able to navigate this pick-up truck on the most extreme road conditions with little effort other than adjusting the steering wheel to go on the right direction.

The Amorak is also equipped with satellite navigation system with a 5” touch screen colour display, Bluetooth connectivity, AUX-IN and SD card slots and Western Europe mapping data pre-loaded in the 4GB internal flash memory. Electric front and rear windows, electrical interface for external devices, CD radio, 3-seat folding rear bench seat. Trip computer with multifunction display. Leather seating, steering wheel, gear knob and hand brake handle.

VW Amarok, 4X4

The new 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander is a fun and practical vehicle, it can seat up to 7 passengers  or you can even fit two mountain bikes inside, yet is not a big SUV. Mitsubishi introduced for the first time to the UK market a 2WD diesel SUV to provide a more affordable vehicle; the AWD option is also available. The Outlander is over 95% recyclable, it is equipped with an eco-driving indicator and its roof is made of aluminium saving on weight which reflects on fuel savings.

A brand new engine has been introduced for the 2011 year model, the 2.2 MVEC clever clean diesel with variable valve technology, the first of its kind. This engine gives you more power, better fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. Engine performance rates at a maximum output of 174hp/280lb-ft of torque with fuel economy at 34.9mpg in urban mode and 50.4mpg in extra urban mode for a combined fuel economy of 43.5mpg. CO2 emissions are at 169 g/km.

The 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander is available with a 6-speed manual transmission with TC-SST technology; the Twin-Clutch SST provides features of both the automatic and manual transmissions, it has steering-mounted paddles. The gearbox resembles a regular automatic, but it does not have a torque converter instead it uses two clutches making more efficient than an automatic. The TC-SST has two modes selections; Normal for smooth shifting at low engine speeds and the Sport for quicker shifts at high rpms.

For 2011 The Outlander is available in five models, for commercial use there is the GX1 at a starting price of £19,457.00 +VAT. On AWD configuration there is the GX2 with an OTR of £22.099.00, the GX3 at £24,849.00, the GX4 with an OTR of £28,599.00 and the Juro Special Edition at £26,599.00 only one model is available with the 2WD option and that is the GX3 with an OTR of £23,349.00

Mitsubishi 4X4, Mitsubishi Outlander

The new 2011 Nissan Murano has received a facelift for this year and will be available for the first time with a diesel engine. Nissan’s 2.5 Lt four-cylinder diesel engine has been updated for improved performance and efficiency; it is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that gives us a maximum output of 140kW and 450 Nm of torque. With an average of 210 g/km in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption at 28/42 mpg it makes the Diesel Murano classify as an Euro-V compliant SUV.

The Nissan Murano is available in two trims the Diesel at an OTR of £38,595 and the petrol version with an OTR of £38,595 as well. The petrol version has a 3.5 V6 engine with a 6-speed semi-automatic transmission with CO2 emissions at 261 g/km and fuel consumption at 19/33 mpg. With tons of standard equipment the Murano is a great deal for the price, standard All Mode 4x4, Bose audio system with 11 speakers, colour nearside kerb and rear-view camera that displays images to a 7” integrated colour screen, Satellite Navigation System, DVD playback (only when stationary) with an optional rear seat DVD entertainment system, rain sensing wipers. On the Exterior we have 20” alloy wheels, electric folding and heated mirrors

Nissan has released a teaser picture in the UK of the Murano Cross Cabriolet “the world’s first all-wheel-drive crossover convertible” as Nissan introduced it. What is so special about it? Well, its drop-top SUV, it is a different kind of 4x4, it has the reliability of a 4x4 and the carefree attitude of a drop-top vehicle. It is a 2-door SUV that seats four at this moment is only available in the US at a starting price of $46,390 about £28,435. Nissan has no immediate plans of releasing it in the UK or Europe just yet. 

Nissan Nissan Murano, 4X4

The 2011 Subaru Forester is available in five trims the 2.0D X starting at an OTR of £23,070, the 2.0D XC starts at £25,070, the 2.0D XS Navplus OTR is at £29,070, the 2.0 X from £21,375 and the 2.0 XS starting at £25,375. Either with a diesel engine the 140PS 2.0 litre paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or with the 150PS 2.0 litre petrol engine paired to a 5-speed dual range transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

For this model year Subaru introduced the 2.0 litre DOHC diesel boxer engine in its line-up. This makes the first diesel boxer engine to ever power a passenger vehicle. This is a strong and reliable engine, advance emission controls, its rigidity and quite operation provides impressive performance every time your press the accelerator.  The 2.0 litre DOHC petrol boxer engine is fuel efficient and powerful, boosting torque at low and midrange speeds thanks to the Active Valve Control System (AVCS).

The basics of Subaru technology is the amazingly balanced Boxer engine and permanent symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive, this is why Subaru is different than other manufacturers. Subaru’s flat and compact boxer engine configuration is what gives it is low centre of gravity together with its AWD setting is what makes the Forester more responsive and precise in any driving condition.

Subaru has issued a statement concerning the earthquake and following tsunami of March 111, 2011 that affected Japan: “Subaru UK is supporting all of its colleagues in Japan following the recent earthquake and tsunami and share the nation’s grief at this devastating event.

The short-term supply of Subaru vehicles remains unaffected. However a number of component suppliers were affected and power supply remains intermittent. Subaru has announced that limited car production has resumed. Currently no decision has been made on when full scale production will commence.

We continue to monitor the situation on a regular basis and will provide further updates as more information becomes available. Subaru UK appreciates customers’ understanding during this challenging period.” 

Subaru Subaru Forester, 4X4