USA - VW announces pricing of new 1.8T Beetle hatch and convertible

New models gain significant fuel economy improvements over outgoing 2.5-liter Beetle

• Beetle 1.8T priced from $20,295
• Beetle Convertible 1.8T base price is $25,170
• Coupe gains 4 mpg on EPA estimated highway fuel economy over outgoing 2.5 automatic transmission model
• Convertible gains 5 mpg on highway cycle, or 19 percent improvement

Having launched the new EA888 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine in the Jetta and Passat lineup, Volkswagen of America has announced pricing for the Beetle and Beetle Convertible 1.8T models, which are now beginning to arrive in dealerships.

The base price for the Beetle is $20,295 when equipped with a five-speed manual transmission and $21,395 with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Beetle Convertible, which is only available with the six-speed automatic, begins at $25,170. Volkswagen’s standard destination charge for the Beetle and Beetle Convertible is $820.

Designed to be lighter and more fuel-efficient, the new EA888 Gen 3 turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder powerplant features a number of refinements, such as a new thinwall cylinder block, a cylinder head with an integrated exhaust manifold, and careful attention to the reduction of friction. The new 1.8-liter TSI engine is built at Volkswagen’s new engine factory in Silao, Mexico, part of the Volkswagen Group’s ongoing $5 billion investment in North America.

The 1.8T engine has a peak output of 170 horsepower at 4800 to 6200 rpm, matching the horsepower rating of the outgoing 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, but delivered at 700 fewer revs. The new engine offers seven pound-feet more torque at 184 lb-ft, produced at just 1500 rpm—a whopping 2750 revs less than the outgoing 2.5’s torque figure. The torque curve is strong and flat, with the peak being delivered from 1500 to 4750 rpm. All 1.8T Beetle models now have electric power steering, in place of the hydraulic setup on the 2.5 models.

The new engine also returns better EPA estimated fuel economy figures than the 2.5-liter unit. The Beetle equipped with the 1.8T and a six-speed automatic transmission now gets 33 mpg on the highway, up from 29 mpg for the 2.5-liter engine. At the same time, the city mileage improves from 22 to 25 mpg, and the overall EPA estimated combined fuel economy is now 28 mpg compared with 25 for the outgoing five cylinder.

On the manual transmission model, the EPA city/combined/highway fuel economy ratings have improved from 22/25/31 mpg to 24/27/33 mpg. In the case of the Beetle Convertible, the EPA ratings have gone from 21/23/27 mpg to 24/27/32 mpg—a 19 percent gain in the estimated highway fuel economy.

The implementation of this engine throughout the Beetle lineup furthers Volkswagen’s leadership in turbocharged and direct-injection technology among volume automakers. Volkswagen first used this combination of turbocharging and direct injection in U.S.-market gasoline engines in the 2006 Jetta GLI and GTI models. Since then, Volkswagen’s EA888 four cylinder has set the benchmark for small-displacement turbocharged engines, while the EA288 TDI® has set the standard for diesel engines in the North American market since it first appeared in the 2009 Jetta TDI Clean Diesel.

The vast majority of Volkswagen’s range is now powered by these advanced turbocharged and direct-injection engines, either in diesel or gasoline form. Volkswagen of America predicts that by the end of 2014, close to 90 percent of its vehicles will be sold with these engines.

Mitsubishi ASX, increased range, decreased price.

 Mitsubishi Motors in the UK is pleased to announce the arrival of the ASX automatic and confirm the new ASX model line-up.

With over 340,000 units sold around the world since its launch in 2010, the Mitsubishi ASX has proved to be a global success for Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC).

Mitsubishi’s clever and capable crossover, ASX, has always stood out from the crowd – and with the 2014 model year just arriving in dealerships, it will soon be attracting more attention than ever. And, never a manufacturer to rest on its laurels, Mitsubishi – the UK’s fastest-growing car brand this year – has refreshed and refined many aspects of the vehicle.

Be Safe, Not Sorry

The ASX isn’t just environmentally aware, it’s a safe choice too. The ASX incorporates Mitsubishi’s RISE safety technology (which dissipates the energy from the impact away from the passenger compartment) as well as ABS anti-lock braking, Active Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist an Emergency Stop Signal System, Hill Start Assist, ISOFIX child seat anchorage and up to 7 airbags as standard. The result is a reduced likelihood of an accident, but should a collision be unavoidable, the ASX not only provides outstanding levels of occupant protection – with a 5 Star Euro NCAP rating – but also excellent pedestrian impact protection.

Under the Bonnet

The ASX has the choice of three Euro V compliant engines: A 1.6 petrol with 115bhp and a 1.8 Di-D low-CO2 turbo-diesel with 114bhp. A five-speed manual is fitted on the 1.6 and a six-speed manual comes with the 1.8 Di-D. An automatic version of ASX is also available – with the 2.2 4N14 16V DOHC engine found in new Outlander.

Stylish and Practical

Based on the same platform as the Outlander, Lancer and Lancer Evolution X, the ASX bridges the gap between Mitsubishi’s conventional passenger cars and its rugged off-roaders. Practicality and versatility are key to the appeal of the ASX. With a wheelbase to match the Outlander, passenger space is generous, with the flexible seating inside giving the ASX real versatility for customers looking for a practical, enjoyable family car. The addition of a stunning panoramic glass roof, complete with sophisticated mood lighting and electric seat controls on the ASX4, will enable front passengers to recline and gaze skywards.

Green Thinking and Economical

Helping the ASX achieve its impressive economy and emissions figures are low rolling resistance tyres, regenerative brakes and intelligent power management to allow the ASX to return its impressive consumption figures. Indeed, every aspect of the ASX has been engineered with its environmental performance in mind, to help create not just an enjoyable, versatile family vehicle, but a responsible one too.

The annual road tax cost ranges from to £125 for the 1.6 petrol engine to £175 for the 2.2 diesel engine. With class-leading economy and emissions, in line with Mitsubishi’s environmental aspirations, the frugal 1.6 petrol engine offers fuel economy of 47.1mpg, 55.4mpg for the 1.8 diesel engine and the 2.2 engine achieves 48.7mpg, based on the official combined cycle.

Going Automatic

Another welcome new addition is the option of automatic transmission, available on the ASX 4 2.2 Diesel 4WD version. The 1.6-litre 16v MIVEC engine comes exclusively fitted with a five-speed manual transmission with front-wheel drive. The 1.8-litre Di-D diesel engine comes fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, and can be specified with either front- or four-wheel drive (AWC). The 2.2-litre diesel version is equipped with automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

Something for Everyone

The ASX starts with a choice of two-wheel-drive versions and all models include a spacious, family-friendly interior and offer a comfortable, refined ride.

For those requiring the security of four-wheel-drive, ASX also offers off-road flexibility and despite its compact dimensions, it is based on the proven capabilities of the bigger Outlander off-roader.  So for anyone needing to go off the beaten track, the ASX is more than capable.

Like other models in the Mitsubishi range, ASX is temptingly priced but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking key standard equipment. All models have alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric windows and keyless entry. Other desirable features such as Bluetooth, leather upholstery, satellite navigation, seat heaters and a reversing camera are available.

ASX 2: The Mitsubishi ASX 2 is the entry-level ASX but even this model comes fully-loaded with equipment perfect for its intended audience – such as alloy wheels, air conditioning, Active Stability and Traction Control, remote keyless entry and seven airbags. New for 2014 is a Bluetooth hands-free system as standard.

ASX 3: The Mitsubishi ASX 3 moves the game on. It adds 17-inch alloys, climate control, push-start button, parking sensors, privacy glass, front fog lamps, cruise control and features six speakers. KOS (Keyless Operation System) features and the car also benefits from auto light and rain sensors. Heated front seats and a leather steering wheel add touches of luxury. Leather upholstery is an option too.

ASX 4: This is the most accomplished ASX of the lot, packed with creature comforts and bristling with clever technology. On top of an already strong list of standard equipment, the ASX 4 adds a reversing camera, leather upholstery, Kenwood integrated Satellite Navigation and CD/radio with MP3 compatibility. It come with 4WD – and new for 2014, automatic transmission. A major new feature is the ASX 4’s panoramic glass roof. By day the glass roof creates a fresh, open-air feel throughout the interior; and by night, with its LED mood lighting, it sets the tone for endless evening drive possibilities.

Colour Me Happy

Keenly anticipated by Mitsubishi’s dealer network in the UK, the new ASX range will be available in the following colours:

• Cool Silver (Metallic)
• Orient Red (Metallic)
• Amethyst Black (Metallic)
• Frost White (Solid)
• Granite Brown (Metallic)
• Atlantic Grey (Metallic)
• White Pearl (Pearlescent)

TLC

The ASX comes with three years unlimited mileage warranty, 12 year anti-corrosion perforation warranty, 3 year pan-European roadside, home and accident assistance. Servicing on the 1.6 ASX and the 1.8 ASX is 12,500 miles or 12 months, whichever occurs first and the servicing on the ASX 2.2 is 9,000. The Mitsubishi Service Plan (MSP) is also available for the additional cost of £450 on the petrol variant and £650 on the diesel variant.

Go Compare

The re-aligned ASX range has achieved a competitive insurance group rating of between 13E to 20E depending on the derivative.

Money Talks

Mitsubishi Motors in the UK is pleased to announce very competitive pricing:

ASX2   1.6 Petrol Manual £14,999 Was: £16,499
ASX3   1.6 Petrol Manual £16,750 Was: £18,359
ASX3   1.8 Diesel Manual £18,750 Was: £20,599
ASX4   1.8 Diesel 4WD Manual £22,499 Was: £24,895
ASX4   2.2 Diesel 4WD Automatic £23,899   Was: £26,295

Future Proof

Residual Values (RV), based on three years / 30,000 miles, range from 40 to 48 per cent.

View From The Top

Lance Bradley, Managing Director of Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said:

‘The crossover marketplace has grown rapidly in recent years and Mitsubishi Motors has been a key player in this important segment. The ASX is a stylish, well-priced, practical contender that has won many admirers and delivers genuine driving pleasure.

Providing excellent economy and emissions, versatility, as well as comprehensive standard equipment, not to mention reassuring safety features, the ASX has everything the crossover buyer is after.

And we’re sure that the improvements made for 2014 will enhance the appeal of the ASX still further and attract more customers to our fast-growing brand.’

USA - Nissan announces 2014 cube pricing unchanged from 2013

Nissan today announced U.S. pricing for the 2014 Nissan cube®, which is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide. Prices remain unchanged from 2013, with a starting M.S.R.P.* of $16,760 USD. One new exterior color is offered for 2014 - Caspian Sea, which replaces the previous Bitter Chocolate. A bold palette of eight colors is offered, along with Black or Light Gray interiors.

The cube continues to stand out in a crowd with unique design elements such as the wraparound rear window, 58.1 cubic feet of cargo space and six standard air bags. The front-wheel drive cube is built on Nissan's proven B-platform and features a standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a choice of Nissan's advanced, smooth shifting Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmission.  The 2014 cube provides excellent fuel efficiency of 27 mpg city and 31 mpg highway with the CVT transmission.**

The Nissan cube® is available in three trim levels: S 6MT, S CVT and SL CVT. The SL CVT offers an optional SL Preferred Package which includes fog lights, Nissan Navigation System with 5.0-inch touch screen, NavTraffic®, RearView Monitor, Rockford Fosgate 8-inch subwoofer and amplifier, six upgraded speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), and USB connection port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2014 Nissan cube are:

cube 1.8 S 6MT $16,760 USD
cube 1.8 S CVT $17,760 USD
cube 1.8 SL CVT $18,860 USD
Destination and Handling $810 USD

Track only Elise S Cup R added to Lotus range.

Following the success of the Exige V6 Cup and its hardcore sibling the Exige V6 Cup R, the Lotus Elise S is adorned with the Lotus Motorsport magic to present the track-only Elise S Cup R.

Evolving from the 1.6 litre Elise platform, this is the first time the supercharged Elise S’ mid-mounted, transverse, 1.8 litre 2ZR-FE engine has been used in a Cup variant. Priced at £39,125 + VAT and boasting bespoke livery and aerodynamic body kit, the Elise S Cup R showcases the marriage of form and function perfectly so that performance is optimised yet retains its stylish and iconic aesthetic.

Performance is enhanced over the road-going Elise S thanks to a motorsport-specific engine control module (ECM) and a CFD proved aero pack comprising; front splitter, barge boards, winglets, rear diffuser, floor extensions and rear wing. Despite the extra body kit and race-ready additions, Lotus Motorsport manages to maintain the road car’s light weight of just 924 kg. These modifications and the clever manipulation of air-flow to create extra downforce, combined with adjustable damper and springs, reduces lap times by 4 seconds on a 5 km lap over the standard Elise S.

The Lotus S Elise Cup R is eligible for entry to the production class in the 2014 Lotus Cup series which operates under the banners Lotus Cup UK, Lotus Cup Europe, Lotus Cup Italia, Lotus Cup USA, Lotus Cup Japan, Lotus Cup Thailand, Lotus Cup China and Lotus Ladies Cup.  The Lotus Cup is open to all Lotus owners and their Elise, Exige, Evora, 340R and 2-Eleven. To make a statement on some of the best tracks in the world, the Elise S Cup R has a selection of bespoke colour and trim options courtesy of the Lotus Design team.

The Elise S Cup R at a glance:

Enhancements:	FIA Compliant Rollcage ( As previous Cup versions) FIA Compliant Fire Extinguisher Motorsport Mapped ECU Electronic Battery Isolator 6 Point Race Harness (Driver Seat) Hans Compliant Race Driver's Seat TrackSpecification Front Tow Eyes Quick Release Steering Wheel Body Kit Brake Pad Upgrade Single way adjustable Dampers Hardtop Motorsport specification triple-pass radiator Polycarbonate Rear Screen Forged Alloy Wheels
Options:	FIA Fuel Cell Air Conditioning Race Passenger Seat (with 4 point race harness fitted) Ultra-lightweight Motorsport Wheels
Powertrain:	All alloy, 1.8 litre DOHC 4 cylinder, dual VVT-i, 16 valve with Magnuson R900 supercharger utilising Eaton TVS™ technology;
Torque:	181 lbft / 250 Nm
Transmission:	6-speed manual gear box as standard
Suspension:	Up Rated TCA Kit
Brakes:	Twin-piston fixed aluminium alloy front brake calipers. Single-piston sliding rear brake calipers.  288 mm diameter, 26 mm thick front and rear cast-iron cross-drilled & ventilated brake discs
Wheels:	Forged Alloy
Tyres:	Yokohama Advan Neova AD07 LTS tyres F: 175/ 55 R16 & R: 225/ 45 R17
Safety systems:	Lotus ABS/ EDL

New AUDI A3 ready to order now for Spring

Advanced premium compact range adds another string to its bow as soft-top versions open for order in time for April 2014 deliveries

• A3 Cabriolet available to order now, priced from £25,790 to £32,420 OTR
• Engines include the ultra-efficient 1.4 TFSI with Cylinder-on-Demand, the powerful 1.8 TFSI and the frugal 2.0 TDI
• SE, Sport or S line specification available
• First customer deliveries expected in April 2014

Thoughts of spring 2014 may be fleetingly sprung this week by the news that the all-new A3 Cabriolet has just become available to order in readiness for first deliveries next April. Priced from £25,790 OTR, the latest soft-top A3 takes the recently introduced A3 Saloon as its foundation, meaning that its proportions are now not only more beautifully balanced, but also make provision for complete concealment of the fast-retracting powered fabric hood within the sleek new body. A comprehensive choice of engines and an array of technological innovations adopted from the larger Audi models also transfers from the four-door A3.

A soft but extremely hard-wearing fabric roof stretched over a lightweight kinematic mechanism made of magnesium-steel opens the new Cabriolet to the elements fully automatically in a little under 18 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph, and complements the design of the A3 perfectly. When retracted at the touch of a button, the top – complete with heated glass rear window – rests in a tray that barely affects luggage capacity, which amounts to 275 litres.

A second, even more sound-absorbent acoustic soft top with three-layer inner padding is fitted as standard to UK Sport and S line versions of the new A3 Cabriolet and offered as an option for SE models. It is available in black, grey and brown, and its roof liner can be specified in black or lunar silver. In all versions, an active rollover protection system consisting of two spring-loaded plates that are recessed into the body protects occupants in case of a rollover accident.

In entry level form, the A3 Cabriolet weighs just 1,365 kilograms – around 50 kilograms less than its equivalent predecessor despite its increased dimensions and improved comfort. Even taking into account special reinforcements to maximise torsional rigidity, the body-in-white weighs 30 kilograms less than previously, helped by its aluminium bonnet. Weight has also been significantly reduced in the interior and in the engines.

In common with A3 hatchback models, the new Cabriolet will be available with a choice of SE, Sport or S line specification. Standard equipment at entry level includes the fully automatic hood finished in black, plus 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, the MMI radio incorporating an 11 millimetre-thick powered folding screen, Audi Music Interface iPod connection, DAB digital radio, a Bluetooth interface, preparation for SD card-based navigation and a light and rain sensor package.

Three no-cost suspension options

Sport and S line versions upgrade to the acoustic hood and sit 15mm lower on their respective 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels thanks to sports suspension. Both can also be equipped at no extra cost with the SE version’s more comfort-oriented standard suspension, while S line models can be taken to the other extreme with S line sports suspension lowered by 25mm and also available at no cost.

Shared Sport and S line features also include sports seats, the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system with five operating modes to fine-tune driving characteristics, dual-zone climate control and a high-resolution colour driver’s information system.

Interior highlights of the S line specification include part-leather-upholstery embossed with the S line logo and an S line sports steering wheel with perforated leather grips and shift paddles where S tronic is fitted.  Outside, 18-inch alloy wheels, S line body styling and xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lamps set the top model apart.

Cylinder-on-Demand technology

In the first phase, the petrol engine range powering the new A3 Cabriolet kicks off with the highly efficient 140PS 1.4 TFSI linked to six-speed manual transmission. It powers the new premium compact soft-top to 62mph in 9.1 seconds, yet achieves up to 56.5 mpg with CO2 emissions of just 114 g/km. A key contributor to this impressive efficiency is Audi Cylinder-on-Demand (CoD) technology, which imperceptibly deactivates two of the engine's cylinders under part-load.

The next step up is the 1.8-litre TFSI, which features impressive headline figures including a 0-62mph sprint time of 7.8 seconds, a top speed of 150mph and a 180PS peak output. Despite the robust performance, state-of-the art technologies including dual injection into the combustion chambers and induction manifold help to maintain a high level of efficiency.

This engine is initially linked exclusively to a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission, which can make further fuel savings by switching into a free-wheeling mode during coasting where the Audi drive select system is fitted and its efficiency mode is selected. According to the combined cycle test this engine and transmission combination is capable of delivering up to 48.7 mpg with CO2 emissions of 133g/km.

The economy champion in the launch range will be the manual transmission-equipped 2.0 TDI with 150PS, offering combined fuel consumption of 67.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 110g/km. It complements this frugality with an impressive 8.9-second 0-62 mph time and a 139 mph top speed.

From February next year, A3 Cabriolet customers will be able to choose from an extended list of engines, transmissions and drivetrains. Highlights will include the 1.6 TDI, which in other versions of the A3 already delivers up to 74.3mpg with CO2 emissions of just 99g/km, and a more powerful version of the 2.0 TDI with 184PS, which will be available with either front wheel-drive or quattro all-wheel-drive. It will also be possible to specify this world-renowned all-weather driving aid in conjunction with the 1.8 TFSI engine, and it will of course feature as standard in the forthcoming 300PS S3 Cabriolet.

The all-new Audi A3 Cabriolet – UK OTR Pricing

USA - AUDI announces pricing of new A3 Saloon/Sedan

• The A3 sedan brings a new level of standard features, craftsmanship and attention to detail to the fast growing entry premium market
• An all-new A3 family from Audi will be rolled out over the next 18 months

Audi today announced base pricing for its all-new 2015 A3 sedan. This compact powerhouse represents the entry level to the Audi brand of luxury vehicles with no compromises – it will offer a combination of standard features including a panoramic glass sunroof, leather seating surfaces, and bi-xenon headlights, all at a base MSRP starting at $29,900 .

“The Audi A3 sedan raises the bar in this premium compact segment” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “It will add to our momentum in the U.S. marketplace by bringing a new level of technology, craftsmanship and performance to the market."

The A3 sedan plays a pivotal role in the soon to be expanding Audi A3 family. It will be joined later in 2014 by the recently announced Audi A3 Cabriolet, A3 TDI clean diesel, the high-performance S3 sedan and in early 2015, the A3 Sportback e-tron® gasoline electric hybrid (PHEV). Even the base model of the all-new premium Audi A3 comes equipped with standard features that include Audi signature LED DRLs and taillights, Bluetooth® technology, Audi pre sense® basic and a panoramic glass sunroof.

The A3 also marks the first time that a vehicle in this segment will offer MMI® technology, Audi drive select, 4G LTE connectivity and Bang & Olufsen® audio. Delivering the same prestige and high-quality materials found in the brand’s flagship A8 model. The A3 will also feature standard leather seating surfaces and exceptional ergonomics.

The A3 sedan will offer versatile powertrains for a wide variety of entry-luxury customer tastes, including a 1.8 TFSI®, 2.0 TFSI®, 2.0 TDI® clean diesel, and a high-output 2.0 TFSI® offered in the S3. For superior traction and handling the A3 will also offer the legendary Audi quattro® all-wheel drive which distributes power to the wheels that need it most.

All engines are mated to the standard 6-speed S tronic® transmission, which provides the driver immense shifting flexibility and driving pleasure with smooth, dynamic acceleration and virtually no interruption to the power flow.

The A3 will feature an all-new design and has been specifically tailored to meet the sedan preferences of the American market. The signature Singleframe® grille and available full-LED headlights, another first for the A-segment, are some of the notable design changes included in the all-new Audi A3 sedan.