Honda Civic updated for the UK

Honda recently unveiled the first images and details of the updated 2011 Honda Civic facelift. for which production will begin next month at the Swindon plant in UK.

Exterior enhancements for the 2011 Honda Civic are limited to a new grille design across the range, which is influenced by that fitted to the recently discontinued high performance Type R model.

Interior comfort has also been increased as the 2011 Honda Civic comes with fabric and Alcantara or leather and Alcantara combinations depending on the trim level, plus heated front seats.

Under the hood, engine options carry over which means customers can order a 100 PS (74 kW / 99 hp) 1.4-liter petrol, a 140 PS (103 kW / 138 hp) 1.8-liter petrol, or a 140 PS (103 kW / 138 hp) 2.2-liter diesel.

Prices for the entry-level 1.4 Type S begin at just under 13,995 GBP.

Source: Honda UK




Press Release

HONDA ENHANCES CIVIC STYLING FOR 2011

The British-built Honda Civic has been given a refresh with a range of cosmetic enhancements for 2011. The updates and additions are designed to enhance the striking appearance and passenger comfort of the car at no extra cost to the customer.

Production for the 2011 Honda Civic begins at the Swindon manufacturing plant in November 2010 with prices starting from £13,995 for the 1.4 Type S.

Exterior updates
Eyes are immediately drawn to the new front grille, which has taken inspiration from the iconic ‘Type R' model, creating a smarter, more upmarket face for the popular hatchback.

Exterior updates also include a range of new alloy wheels now fitted as standard, with individual designs and sizes dependent on the variant chosen. New 16-inch rims feature on the Civic five-door range in 1.4-litre SE and Si, plus 1.8-litre SE trim levels. While the five-door 1.8-litre Si now wears a fresh set of 17-inch boots.

On the sports-inspired Type S model, the 1.4-litre Civic now benefits from colour-coded sideskirts and revised 16-inch alloys. The other news is a dynamic new exterior colour - Ionized Bronze, which is available across the Civic range.

Interior comfort
Keeping the driver and passenger comfortable is also part of the 2011 Model Year upgrade package, with a series of new interior finishes. SE and ES trim gets half fabric and luxurious Alcantara, while Si is now half leather and Alcantara with heated front seats.

LA Auto Show: 2011 Volkswagen EOS

VW has releases the first images and official details for the 2011 Volkswagen Eos facelift which will have its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the beginning of next month. Sales in Europe will begin in mid January 2011.

The 2011 Volkswagen Eos facelift comes with BlueMotion technology and a newly developed Start/Stop system that work together to reduce the vehicles fuel consumption and CO2 emissions level. For example, the 2011 Volkswagen Eos 2.0 TDI, that outputs 103 kW / 140 PS, offers now a 4.8 l/100 km fuel consumption, which is 0.7 l/100 km lower than the previous version.

On the styling front, the convertible features redesigned bumpers, modified headlights, a revised grille, and LED taillights. Inside, the cabin boasts a new multi-function display and optional 'Cool' leather seats which reflect sunlight and heat. Tech goodies include Light Assist (which automatically switches between high- and low beams), Park Assist, and Keyless Access.

The 2011 Eos has received multiple equipment additions, such as a multi-function color Premium display, Lights Assist, the second generation of the Park Assist, Keyless Access.
The vehicle’s engine range includes one diesel unit and three petrol units. The diesel is a 140 hp unit that can be mated to a six-speed manual or to a six-speed DSG automatic. The entry-level petrol unit is a 122 hp 1.4 TSI, which is followed by a 160 hp incarnation of the same engine and by a 210 hp 2.0 TSI engine (this is borrowed from the Golf GTI). All the petrol units come with a six-speed manual transmission, while the range-topper can be ordered with a six-speed DSG gearbox.

The interior has been revised to play up the center stack of controls. New materials are said to give the Eos a higher sense of quality. A new steering wheel has been specified, too.

Pricing for the 2011 Volkswagen Eos remains unchanged from the just-superseded version; $46,990 for the Eos 103TDI and $48,990 for the Eos 155TSI, excluding on-road costs.




Press Release

Volkswagen has unveiled the new face of the Eos convertible coupé ahead of its public debut at the Los Angeles Motor Show on 17 November.

The modifications bring the Eos in line with the latest iteration of Volkswagen’s design language as seen applied to the new Polo, Passat and Sharan. Horizontal lines dominate the front of the car with a prominent new grille complete with chrome highlights that create the impression that the Eos is wider and lower than the car it replaces. A set of new headlight units, similar in shape to those fitted to the Golf, features the option of integrated LED daytime running lights to lend the revised Eos an elegant new look.

A revised front bumper featuring new airdams and fog lights is joined by a reprofiled bonnet. At the back of the car a set of new tail lights, drawing on the look of those fitted to the new Passat, creates a distinctive new appearance.

As before, the Eos features an advanced five piece folding roof with an integrated tilt sliding glass sunroof. To go from a closed coupé to an open cabriolet – an operation that can now be undertaken remotely via the key fob if the car is specified with Keyless Entry – takes just 25 seconds while the boot capacity ranges from 205 litres when the roof is down up to 380 litres with the roof closed.

Inside, new trim finishes enhance the interior of the Eos which is both comfortable and extremely well equipped. Highlights include a leather multifunction steering wheel, air conditioning, a powerful eight-speaker CD stereo system and sports seats.

The new Eos will be available with a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines when deliveries commence in the UK early in 2011. These include a 1.4-litre TSI engine developing 122 PS, a 2.0-litre TSI unit producing 210 PS as well as a refined 2.0-litre TDI engine producing 140 PS. This unit, with BlueMotion Technology modifications including automatic Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems, can return a combined economy of 58.8 mpg.

Prices and specifications for the new Eos will be announced when ordering opens for the car in November.

New 2011 Dodge Charger Unveiled

Chrysler has officially unveiled the redesigned 2011 Dodge Charger, which comes with various improvements over the previous version.

With inspiration from the 1968-1970 muscle car, the rear styling mimics the old model’s full-width tail lamps. This large rear cluster is lit up with 164 LEDs to leave followers in no doubt when it comes to braking.

Under a new aluminum hood, engine choices are a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, or 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine in R/T trim. which delivers 290 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive will also be available in the R/T that comes with 19-inch wheels and, unique for a car, an active transfer case that can disconnect the front-axle to improve fuel economy.

Interior changes include a new design for the steering wheel, which gets a thicker grip. Chrysler says the Charger's interior has been tuned for better sound quality.

Source: Dodge




Press Release

Dodge Brand Product Onslaught Continues: Introducing The All-new 2011 Dodge Charger

World-class Performance And Precision With An Iconic Soul

October 5, 2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - With its iconic character, contemporary fastback four-door coupe proportions, world-class performance, craftsmanship and refinement, and state-of-the-art connectivity features, the all-new 2011 Charger is the Dodge brand's flagship that proudly delivers premium, world-class E-segment sedan precision at an incredible value.

The efficient and aerodynamic exterior of the 2011 Dodge Charger is spiritually inspired by the iconic second-generation Charger from the late 1960s, featuring a design that is sure to strike an emotional chord with Dodge performance enthusiasts of all generations.

With its sinister "ready to attack the road" face, the all-new Dodge Charger puts the world's best E-segment sedan competitors between its new "split crosshair" signature grille. Its sculpted all-new body is a conscious nod to its deep heritage and muscle-car roots. The Charger's profile is also a modern affair, a result of countless hours in the wind tunnel, from its lower hood line, faster windshield and radically raked back headlights to its tighter wheel openings, lower sill and race-car-like flat underbody, the Charger effortlessly cuts thought the air with its attitude intact. The aluminum hood features dual "scallops" that bring a sculptured, performance look to the front end, while large body-side scallops deliver a striking undulating A-line across the doors. Running front to rear is the iconic horizontal "coke bottle" or "double-diamond" body-side styling that creates a tapering silhouette accented with muscular front and rear fenders and gives the Dodge Charger one of the most distinct profiles on the road. Defining the fastback's wide stance is an all-new signature taillamp design that incorporates 164 illuminating LEDs to form its signature "racetrack" graphic and gives the new Charger its unmistakable character from blocks away.

The 2011 Dodge Charger's interior cockpit is meant to be an enthusiast office. The all new design feature premium materials throughout. Transmitting the performance chassis' world-class feel of the road, the all-new Charger features a new thick-rimmed three-spoke Dodge steering wheel for enhanced performance feel and grip. Crafted in world-class materials, Charger's passengers are surrounded with comfort, craftsmanship and style, thanks to premium soft-touch materials and four available distinct interior color combinations. The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger's state-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch integrates world-class infotainment and convenience technologies to keep passengers connected, comfortable and secure. From segment-leading Garmin® navigation, to dual-zone climate controls and the ability to check fuel prices with the integration of available SIRIUS Travel Link, Uconnect Touch delivers an excellent experience for Charger's driver and passengers.

Maximizing its unibody's world-class structural stiffness, Dodge Charger engineers were able to tune the cabin for sound quality (rather than sound level) by isolating powertrain, road and wind noise. In addition, Charger's unibody packages material and structural design improvements, including dual-pane acoustic windshield and front-door side glass, body-cavity silencing foam, under-flush roll-framed doors with triple seals and acoustic wheel-well liners to absorb road noise and quiet the cabin. Combined, these design improvements place the all-new Dodge Charger's interior sound quality among the best in the E-segment.

As the Dodge brand's flagship, the chassis of the all-new 2011 Charger is designed, engineered and fine-tuned to deliver a level of quality, capability and refinement that rivals the very best European, Asian and North American E-segment sedans. With its new second-generation E-segment rear-wheel drive (RWD) architecture, Dodge Charger features world-class suspension-tunings with re-designed geometry making for a nimble, balanced chassis that will build the Charger's legend as one of the best driving sedans in the world.

Engineered to perform against the best E-segment sport sedans, the all-new 2011 Dodge Charger SE and Charger Rallye feature the new 3.6-liter Pentastar engine for world-class levels of power, refinement, technology and fuel efficiency. For maximum thrills, efficiency and best-in-class power, the new Dodge Charger R/T lineup features the legendary 5.7-liter HEMITM V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode FuelSaver Technology.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger R/T with all-wheel-drive (AWD) features a re-thought stance and 19-inch wheels to make it much more appealing than ever before. The AWD preserves the Charger's character and deepens its performance envelope in the most treacherous conditions. The Charger AWD features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system to improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. Dodge Charger's innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between RWD and AWD with no driver intervention. When all-wheel drive is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding performance and handling inherent in rear-wheel drive vehicles.

The all-new 2011 Dodge Charger features more than 65 safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready-alert Braking and Rainy Day Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance both on and off the track. Safety and security features available for the first time on the Dodge Charger include adaptive-cruise control (ACC) with forward-collision warning (FCW), blind-spot monitoring (BSM) with rear cross path (RCP) detection and ParkViewTM rear back-up camera with grid lines, all designed to provide the driver with added confidence while behind the wheel.

Built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ont. (Canada), the 2011 Dodge Charger arrives in showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2010.

2011 Volkswagen Caddy

Volkswagen revealed the new 2011 model of the Caddy van, and although they call it a new generation it seems to be more of a light facelift. As expected, the 2011 VW Caddy facelift has also received the 'Golf VI' face as all the latest models to come from the German brand lately.

The exterior facelift includes a completely redesigned front end that draws inspiration from the latest Volkswagen models and re-trimmed tail lamps at the back. Inside, there's a new steering wheel design, a revised instrument cluster and higher-grade materials.

On the hybrid front, Honda will introduce several new vehicles with the IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) system. While details are limited, the models will be small in size, and the first, the Fit Hybrid, will be introduced in Japan this fall. More importantly, the next-generation Civic Hybrid will be equipped with a high-output lithium-ion battery.

As for engines, the new Caddy preps quite a comprehensive offer. The petrol lineup comprises two new 1.2l TSI petrol engines (86 PS and 105 PS). A 2.0l EcoFuel unit, capable of running on compressed natural gas is also available.

The interior design of the 2011 VW Caddy facelift has been refreshed and now the commercial vehicle has the same steering wheel as the Golf, a new dashboard and improved quality materials. The load capacity of the 2011 VW Caddy facelift is rated at 3,030 liters for the five-seat model and 3,880 liters for Caddy Maxi.

The 2011 Volkswagen Caddy price starts at 13,595 Euro and the first market on which the car will be launch is Germany, towards the end of September.




Press Release

The new generation Caddy

Launches autumn 2010 with more fuel-efficient engines, new design, added safety and extra functionality

• New TDI and TSI engines reduce fuel consumption, emissions and cost

• New front section bears new Volkswagen design DNA

• Revised interior with greater functionality and added class

• New generation ESP as standard on all models

Hanover, 21 July 2010. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is introducing a new generation of the top-selling Caddy. The compact van with its practical rear sliding door system has been enhanced in every area. Six new TDI and TSI engines with up to 21% lower fuel consumption, a completely restructured model range, a more precise, fresh front design in the style of the new Amarok and current T5 generation (Transporter, Multivan etc.) and an upgraded interior, now with a removable second row of seats, plus further reduced maintenance costs make the new Caddy one of the most innovative urban delivery vehicles and compact vans available. Globally the third generation Caddy sold around 800,000 units within just 6 years (2004 to 2009). The new Caddy now promises a dynamic continuation of this success story.

The new Caddy will be the first urban delivery vehicle and compact van in this class to be equipped as standard with ESP on all models. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is thus rigorously pursuing its overriding safety strategy of protecting driver and passengers in the best way possible. The new Caddy will also be the only vehicle in this market segment available with the option of an efficient 6 or 7-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG) and Hill-Start Assist. Naturally, the new generation of this best-selling vehicle is once again available with an extended wheelbase (Maxi) and - uniquely in this market segment - with (4MOTION) 4-wheel drive. 4MOTION being available for the Caddy and Caddy Maxi.

For the first time the second row of seats is completely removable on all models. For the 5-seater Caddy this produces - loaded to the roof - a cargo capacity of up to 3,030 litres; for the Caddy Maxi the figure is 3,880 litres. Of interest to tradesmen and service providers will be the fact that if the Caddy Maxi is fitted with the Flexi-Seat Plus pack, the cargo space (on the front-seat passenger's side) is made over 3 metres longer and cargo capacity increases to a best-in-class 4.7m3. The new Caddy can also be ordered as an option with a bench-style third seating row (standard in the Caddy Maxi Trendline and Comfortline) and as such can seat up to seven people.

Six new high-tech engines: The Caddy's new petrol and diesel engines deliver extreme efficiency (all complying with the Euro 5 emission limits). All of them are completely new to the range and equipped with turbocharging and direct fuel injection.

Turbo diesel engines: The turbocharged four-valve (TDI) diesel engines deliver 55 kW / 75 PS, 75 kW / 102 PS, 81 kW / 110 PS and 103 kW / 140 PS respectively. All of the TDIs now work with very quiet and efficient common rail direct injection. All TDIs are also linked as standard to a diesel particulate filter. The 102 PS TDI can be ordered as an option with a 7-speed DSG. For the more powerful 140 PS TDI there is also a specially designed 6-speed DSG available. The 81 kW TDI is exclusively available as a 4MOTION model with four-wheel drive.

BlueMotion: The most fuel-efficient model in the range is now the new Caddy 1.6 TDI with BlueMotion Technology (75 kW / 102 PS). Average consumption: 4.9 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (panel van). That equates to a CO2 emission figure of no more than 129 g/km and fuel consumption of 0.6 litres less than the already frugal outgoing model with BlueMotion Technology. This new fuel consumption figure produces a range of 1,176 kilometres on one tank. Fuel costs thus go down to just €6.35 per 100 kilometres (based on €1.245 per litre of diesel, as in May 2010 in Germany).
Alternatively the 75 PS TDI can also be ordered as a BlueMotion Technology variant. Every Caddy equipped with BlueMotion Technology has a Start/Stop system and an automatic battery regeneration system for utilising the energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. With this system, whenever the driver lifts his or her foot from the accelerator or concertedly brakes, the generator's voltage gets increased and is used to top up the battery. That reduces the load on the engine and thus lowers consumption.

Petrol engines: Two new TSI petrol engines are being used in the Caddy. Technical features of both high-tech engines include a turbocharger and direct fuel injection. The extremely fuel-efficient four cylinder engines develop 63 kW / 86 PS and 77 kW / 105 PS respectively from a cubic capacity of 1.2 litres. Just how efficient the engines are is shown, for example, by the 105-PS version with an average fuel consumption of only 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres (figures for the Caddy panel van; equivalent to 154 g/km CO2). Compared to the outgoing model consumption has thus been reduced by 1.6 litres or, as mentioned above, 21 percent. Another frugal and extremely efficient petrol engine for the Caddy and Caddy Maxi is the natural gas version carried over from the previous generation, the 2.0 EcoFuel (CNG), which delivers 80 kW / 109 PS.

Four new model lines: The Caddy model range has also been reconfigured. This relates both to a standard upgrade of equipment levels, to new interior materials, steering wheels and other equipment details as well as a restructuring of the model lines. The Caddy remains available as panel and ‘kombi' variants, which at around 70% make up the lion's share of the sales volume (panel van with no rear side windows specifically for tradesmen and service providers). For customers with more discerning demands in terms of specification, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has completely reorganised the equipment levels. Here the three available model lines are now the Startline, Trendline and Comfortline. The Trendline version replaces the Caddy Life and the top Comfortline version supersedes the successful special ‘Style' model. The Startline has been newly integrated as an entry-level model. As the new top model there will also be the Comfortline Edition (formerly the Style Edition), with which Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will again be offering a very exclusive version of the Caddy. Also still included in the range is the popular camper van, the Tramper (as both Caddy and Caddy Maxi).

New features: Standard on all versions: new daytime running lights. Optional extras on the new range include adaptive cornering lights (integrated into the front fog lights), roof rack (standard on the Comfortline) and the newly designed RNS 315 radio/navigation system.

Prices for the respective models of the new Caddy - after adjusting for differences in equipment options - are slightly below the levels of the previous generation, starting at €13,595 for the panel van and €14,205 for the Startline, in each case with a 63 kW TSI engine and excluding VAT. The launch of the new Caddy begins at the end of September in Germany and the vehicle will go on sale in almost every other country shortly after that. Dealers in Germany are taking initial orders now.