McLaren expands further, this time, a new dealership in Bangkok.

McLaren Automotive continues to grow and strengthen the global retailer network with the appointment of the latest retail partner in Thailand. McLaren Bangkok is the eighth location in Asia for the British high performance sports car brand, and marks the 30th market worldwide.

McLaren Bangkok will be operated by Niche Cars Co. Ltd., which boasts extensive market experience, and are leaders in the sourcing and sale of luxury and performance cars throughout Thailand. The latest location to be added to the McLaren Automotive retail portfolio will be located in the Siam Paragon luxury shopping mall in the country’s capital, which is one of the largest shopping centres in Asia.

Commenting on the appointment, Mirko Bordiga McLaren Automotive Regional Director for Asia-Pacific explains: ‘We are extremely pleased to announce our latest retail partner in the region, which will bring the McLaren brand to Thailand. The Asia-Pacific region has seen rapid growth recently with the significant expansion of our retailer network, and further strengthens our brand presence globally.’

Vittawat Chinabarramee, Managing Director of Niche Cars Co., Ltd added: "We are delighted to be appointed the representative for McLaren in Thailand. The McLaren brand has been making history on the track for 50 years, and the cutting-edge Formula 1 expertise and technologies now feature on a stunning range of high performance sports cars. It is with great pleasure that Niche Cars Co., Ltd can bring the  12C and, most notably, the limited edition McLaren P1™ to all car enthusiasts who are most eager of the brand’s presence here in Thailand."

UK - Nissan beats previous sales record with significant increase.

• Nissan sold 118,061 cars in the UK in 2013, up 11.5 per cent on 2012
• Nissan market share in the UK was 5.2 per cent – sixth biggest brand in the UK
• Qashqai sold 50,211 units, up 9.9 per cent, making it UK's sixth best-selling car
• Juke sold 37,488 units, up an incredible 29.9 per cent
• Sunderland production facility output tops 500,000 for a second year

Sales records have been beaten for another year at Nissan, with 118,061 cars sold in 2013, an increase of 11.5 percent on 2012 – itself a record year.  Including LCVs, Nissan sold 128,680 vehicles in the UK, up 11.0 percent from 115,970 in 2012.

Key to these record figures were the performance of two British-built stars: the Juke and Qashqai. Despite the imminent arrival of the second-generation model – which has just arrived in UK showrooms – the Qashqai continued its remarkable success story, notching up 50,211 sales, an incredible 9.9 per cent increase on 2012 and the first time the Qashqai has topped the 50,000 mark. The figures consolidated the Qashqai’s position as the UK’s sixth best-selling car.

The Juke also enjoyed a stellar year, with sales up from 28,862 in 2012 to 37,488 in 2013 – a 29.9 per cent increase. Now in its third year, the British designed and built supermini crossover was boosted by the arrival of a Nismo version that added a sporting edge to the range.

The all-electric LEAF also had a busy year up from 699 sales in 2012 to 1,812 in 2013. As part of Nissan’s growth plan for electric vehicles, European production of a revised LEAF started at Nissan’s Sunderland production facility in April, with the model range growing substantially.

Nissan’s remarkable sales success was set against the backdrop of a record year at Nissan's Sunderland manufacturing facility, which broke the 500,000 unit production barrier for the second year in a row, building an incredible 501,756 vehicles.

NissanLCVs also proved popular with buyers in 2013, with 10,619 light commercial vehicles sold – an increase of 4.7 per cent. The NV200 and Navara were the two biggest sellers, notching up 4,230 and 4,484 sales respectively.

Jim Wright, Managing Director at Nissan GB said: “These figures prove that Nissan is continuing to reap the rewards of hard work and intelligent planning. For the Qashqai to break the 50,000 sales mark in its sixth year of production is testament to its remarkable design and value.

“I’m also immensely proud of our other British success stories, namely the Juke, new Note and LEAF. The Juke’s performance proves that British buyers value bold and innovative design, while the Note and LEAF are welcome additions to the Sunderland stable. To break the 500,000 production barrier for a second year is incredible, especially as the plant has been busy integrating new facilities for new Note and LEAF. With the new Qashqai rolling off the lines, I’m sure that 2014 will be another year to remember.”

C-Class gets a host of revisions in advance of an all new model.

Mercedes-Benz UK has announced a range of C-Class enhancements, including a new model line, new option packages and simplified product offer, representing exceptional price and value.

The new AMG Sport Edition replaces the AMG Sport and AMG Sport Plus model lines and now applicable to all Saloon, Estate and Coupé variants.

The AMG Sport Edition retains the AMG bodystyling, steering wheel, alloy wheels and 15 mm lower sports suspension from the outgoing AMG Sport model, but gains an AMG boot lid spoiler (Saloon and Coupé), dark-tinted headlamps and high-gloss black grille to enhance visual appeal.

Inside, the new trim line benefits from AMG Sport Plus seats upholstered in black Artico and Dinamica with blue/grey contrast stitching and split folding rear seats in the Saloon (already standard in Estate and Coupé). In addition to the dark brushed aluminium trim, the gear shift gaiter also now has grey contrast stitching, as does the Dinamica-covered door panel trim.

When the AMG Sport Edition is fitted with the optional 18-inch seven-spoke AMG alloy wheels (£300 including VAT), it represents a 50 per cent saving versus the outgoing AMG Sport Plus model, which was priced at £3,000 over the Executive SE model line – the new AMG Sport Edition is just a £1,500 price walk.

In addition, there are two optional packages. The first is the Premium Package (£1,595 including VAT), which includes COMAND Online with Media Interface, reversing camera, heated front seats, Lighting Package and DAB digital radio.

The Premium Plus Package (£2,495 including VAT), offers up to a 45 per cent saving on individual options and features the same content as the Premium pack, with the added benefit of a panoramic glass sunroof.

The engine and line combinations for C-Class were made-up of a total of 47 variants, including seven engines and three model lines. The new 2014 enhancements mean that this has now been reduced to just 19, consisting of two trims and four engines.

The new AMG Sport Edition is available on C 220 CDI and C 250 CDI engines from £30,170 OTR for Saloon, £31,370 OTR for Estate and £32,455 OTR for Coupé.

Jaguar Design Director Ian Callum named Industry Innovator of the Year

• Jaguar Design Director Ian Callum named Industry Innovator of the Year at Motorcity Automotive Industry Night (MAIN) Event
• Jaguar products praised for distinct design language, use of advanced technology and outstanding vehicle dynamics

Jaguar Design Director Ian Callum has this week been named ‘Industry Innovator of the Year’ at the 2014 Motorcity Automotive Industry Night (MAIN) Event Awards.  Jaguar was recognised by the MAIN Event Executive Committee as the ultimate definition of automotive luxury and praised for its distinct design language, use of advanced technology and outstanding vehicle dynamics.  The ceremony took place at Orchestra Hall, Detroit, in front of an audience of over 700 automotive executives, designers and international media.

Presenting the trophy to Ian, Keith Nagara, Executive Committee Chairman said: “Jaguars are beautiful vehicles that all generations aspire to own.  They epitomise the ultimate in automotive luxury, desirability and craftsmanship.  Ian Callum has led the design revolution at Jaguar that has helped transform the brand, most recently demonstrated by the launch of the stunning F-TYPE Coupé.  This is a brand that is going from strength to strength.”

Ian Callum said: “It is an honour to receive this award.  It is with the benefit of having such a great team around me that we have been able to deliver the cars and designs that define Jaguar today.”

Ian Callum has been at the forefront of the transformation of Jaguar's design aesthetic since joining the brand in 1999. Born in Dumfries, Scotland, he studied Industrial Design at the Glasgow School of Art.  Upon graduating, Callum opted to specialise in vehicle design, enrolling at the Royal College of Art (RCA) on the Automobile Design course, and has since received five honorary doctorates from universities around the world. Callum is responsible for Jaguar design language created over the past decade, which includes the current Jaguar XK, XF, XJ and the recently launched F-TYPE sports car.

Staged in Detroit on the eve of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS),the annual celebration of automotive excellence allocates four awards across design and industry.  Each year two industry executives whose achievements have made a substantial global impact, leading their institutions to set new standards of industry innovation, are recognised at the awards. Celebrating not only established excellence, the next generation of automotive talent is selected by the MAIN Executive Committee from current design students at Lawrence Technological University.

Volvo's latest concept wins two awards at the NAIAS in Las Vegas.

The Volvo Concept XC Coupé won two prestigious design awards this week, further raising the excitement around Volvo Car Group’s (Volvo Cars) new design language. The Concept XC Coupe was awarded the title “Best Concept Car” at the 2014 EyesON Design Awards at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show, while Volvo’s latest concept vehicle also won the award for “Best use of Color, Graphics and Materials”.

The 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit hosts the world premiere of Volvo Cars’ new Concept XC Coupé – the second of three concept cars that showcase the company’s future design direction. Like the highly acclaimed and award-winning Volvo Concept Coupé, the Concept XC Coupé demonstrates the design possibilities of Volvo Cars’ new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) that will underpin most cars from Volvo Cars in the future, starting with the all-new Volvo XC90 that premieres later this year.

“I’m honored and very happy of course. This is very encouraging and it shows that Volvo’s new design direction is appreciated not only by the general public and the press, but also by the leading people in the car design business. And Volvo Cars has only just started its exciting new journey with a brand new design language,” says Thomas Ingenlath, senior vice president design at Volvo Cars.

The EyesOn Design Award ceremony is an annual event that takes place in conjunction with the Detroit Motor Show. The EyesOn Design Award jury contains of a prominent group of designers and from auto makers and academia.

USA - Cadillac introduces the 2015 ATS

• Cadillac’s first compact luxury Coupe, infused with ATS sedan’s agility
• 2.0L Turbo model is segment’s lightest, with increased torque for faster acceleration
• Launching in summer 2014, continuing Cadillac’s ongoing expansion

Cadillac today introduced the all-new 2015 ATS Coupe, a quicker and more personal addition to the award-winning ATS product line. Designed to be lighter, more agile and more engaging than its competitors, it extends Cadillac’s product-driven growth and the brand’s tradition of dynamic luxury Coupes.

Cadillac’s first-ever compact luxury Coupe goes on sale this summer, offering drivers the choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and the power from a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.6L six-cylinder. In all combinations, ATS Coupe takes advantage of its lightweight and strong structure to deliver exhilarating performance with efficiency, with a segment-leading power-to-weight ratio.

“The 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe is a natural step in the brand's progression, and another fun-to-drive and technologically advanced product for a new generation of drivers extending our target groups,” said Uwe Ellinghaus, chief marketing officer, Global Cadillac. “It is an exclusively distinctive American alternative, unique in its class, yet delivering a sporty and sophisticated driving experience rivaling the world's best.”

Like the sedan, the ATS Coupe’s driving dynamics are rooted in mass efficiency, which helps make it one of Cadillac’s lightest and most agile models ever – and the lightest car in the compact luxury Coupe segment. The 2.0L Turbo engine is upgraded from the current ATS sport sedan to deliver nearly 14 percent more torque, taking it to 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). This gives the standard ATS Coupe an advantage in power and weight over similarly equipped Coupes such as the BMW 428i.

Greater torque means greater pulling power, for a greater feeling of responsiveness at low speeds, and helps the ATS Coupe achieve an estimated 0-60 time of 5.6 seconds.

“More power with less weight is always a better combination for performance, and the ATS Coupe offers one of the best power-to-weight ratios in the segment, making it feel lighter, more direct and responsive,” said David Leone, Cadillac executive chief engineer. “Engineers vetted the ATS’s performance on the track, and the Coupe benefits from that exhaustive validation – all matched with Cadillac’s trademark refinement.”

Elements that contribute to the ATS Coupe’s balanced performance and responsive characteristics include:

• Nearly perfect 50/50 weight balance and low center of gravity
• Five-link independent rear suspension featuring lightweight, high-strength steel and efficient straight link designs
• A multi-link double-pivot MacPherson-strut front suspension with direct-acting stabilizer bar
• Underbody aerodynamic shields
• Premium, belt-driven electric variable-effort steering gear from ZF Steering Systems
• Brembo front brakes
• Eighteen-inch aluminum wheels
• Available all-wheel drive.

A driver-adjustable FE3 sport suspension is available and includes Magnetic Ride Control, a mechanical limited-slip differential, high-capacity engine cooling system and 18-inch summer-performance tires. Magnetic Ride Control is a real-time damping system that delivers more precise body motion control. It “reads” the road and can change damping every millisecond.

Design details

The 2015 ATS Coupe rides on the same 109.3-inch (2,775 mm) wheelbase as the sedan, but features its own bodywork. The roof, doors, rear fenders and trunk lid are unique to the Coupe, along with a specific front fascia and front fenders that accommodate a wider track than the sedan. It is also the first production model to wear Cadillac’s revised crest.

The Coupe also has an aggressive stance, with wider front/rear tracks than the sedan, enhanced by short overhangs and sheet metal that wrap tautly around the tires. Standard 18-inch wheels are exclusive to the Coupe.

Bold lighting elements are a Cadillac signature feature and the ATS Coupe advances that tradition with available light-emitting diode, or LED, headlamps with Adaptive Forward Lighting. Base models feature projector-beam headlamps, while high-intensity-discharge headlamps and front vertical LED light signatures are included on all but the standard model. Illuminating outside door handles on Performance and Premium collections lend technologically advanced style and function to the distinctive Coupe. All models feature LED taillamps and rear-center stop lamp.

The ATS Coupe also includes capless fueling.

Inside, the sedan’s driver-focused cabin carries over to the Coupe, featuring handcrafted cut-and-sewn upholstered interior combinations, decorative stitching and authentic materials, including leather, aluminium, carbon fiber and wood, intended to enhance the emotional connection to the driving experience.

Choices of many interior color themes, each with unique accent trim materials, ranging from light, open and warm to dark and serious, to bold technical and sporty.

Available interior features include:

• OnStar 4G LTE connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi hotspot
• Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity with natural voice recognition
• Text-to-voice that converts incoming text messages to speech and reads them over the audio system speakers
• USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio with three-month trial subscription
• Reconfigurable 5.7-inch, three-window instrument panel cluster display
• Full-color reconfigurable head-up display.

A Bose ® premium audio system with Active Noise Cancelation technology is standard on all models and includes electronic sound enhancement on models equipped with the available premium surround sound audio system. Exclusive to ATS Coupe and differing from other manufacturers’ systems that pipe recorded engine sounds through the audio system; Cadillac’s system enhances only the car’s authentic powertrain sounds to enhance the performance experience.

The 12-speaker surround sound upgrade is available on Standard and Luxury, and it is included with Performance and Premium collections. It includes Bose Audio Pilot, which continuously monitors ambient sounds and adjusts the music volume and program content to make the most of the listening experience.

Additionally, a navigation system is available on Luxury and Performance collections, and it is standard with the Premium Collection.

Enhanced Cadillac CUE leads technologies

Cadillac CUE is the centerpiece of the ATS Coupe’s comprehensive collection of technologies designed to enhance the driving experience and complement customers’ increasingly connected lifestyles. It is available on base models and standard on Luxury, Performance and Premium collections, with enhanced connectivity and convenience for 2015, including a new Text-to-Voice feature for smartphone users with Bluetooth profile (M.A.P.) and Sire Eyes Free for iPhone iOS 6 and iOS 7 users to enhance connectivity and convenience. Each enables voice-controlled connectivity – and helps keep the driver’s hands on the wheel.

The heart of CUE is the eight-inch LCD multi-touch sensitive screen, integrated into the top of the central instrument panel and featuring a motorized, fully capacitive faceplate at the bottom concealing a 1.8L storage area. CUE’s vibrant liquid crystal display, or LCD, screen resembles a smartphone screen with large, easy-to-target icons to execute commands.

Complementing CUE is OnStar 4G LTE connectivity, featuring a new built-in Wi-Fi hotspot that can connect up to seven devices at once. The new 4G LTE connection can also be used to power CUE Collection, a new in-car app marketplace coming to Cadillac vehicles this year.

Additional technologies that make life with the ATS Coupe more convenient include the capability to remotely start the engine or lower the windows with the key fob or the owner’s smartphone. EZ Key passive entry and push-button starting is standard, too, so the key never needs to leave the driver’s pocket or purse.

Power-dense powertrains

The engine lineup includes a standard 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and available 3.6L V-6. The award-winning 2.0L Turbo is rated at 272 horsepower (203 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm). The award-winning 3.6L V-6 is rated at 321 horsepower (239 kW) and 275 lb-ft of torque (373 Nm).

At 136hp/L, the 2.0L Turbo is one of the most power-dense engines in the industry, topping engines from European competitors. It also delivers 90 percent of its peak torque from 2100 rpm to 5400 rpm and the full 295 lb-ft of peak torque (400 Nm) from 3000 to 4600 rpm. The broad torque band is supported by boost levels as high as 18 psi (1.26 bar) in the speed range, which is designed to give the lightweight ATS Coupe an exhilarating feeling of immediate power on demand.

Both engines feature direct injection and dual overhead camshafts with continuously variable valve timing, which help optimize power and efficiency, as well as reduce emissions. And each is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6L45 six-speed automatic transmission with tap-shift control. A six-speed manual is also available with the 2.0L Turbo.

Advanced safety features

ATS Coupe delivers the same safety technologies found in the ATS Sedan. Additionally, Cadillac provides available advanced safety based on Cadillac’s “control and alert” strategy, which employs up to two cameras, eight ultrasonic sensors and six radar signals to help prevent crashes.

The safety features bolster driver vision and awareness of road hazards, and can even help the driver avert potential crashes. In certain situations, Cadillac’s advanced crash-avoidance systems, such as automatic braking, can pre-fill and automatically apply braking in response to potential hazards.

Among the most sophisticated of the features is Front and Rear Automatic Braking. It relies on radar, camera and ultrasonic technology to help the driver prevent front and rear low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that extend to complete braking, if necessary.

Many of the advanced safety features are bundled in the Driver Awareness and Driver Assist Packages. The Driver Awareness package is available on Luxury and included in Performance and Premium Collections. It includes:

• Safety Alert Seat
• Forward Collision Alert
• Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist – new to Cadillac for 2015
• Intellibeam ® high-beam control
• Front and rear park assist
• Rear-vision camera with dynamic guidelines.

The Driver Assist package is available on Performance and Premium collections and includes all of the Driver Awareness package content, plus:

• Full-Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control
• Automatic Collision Preparation
• Motorized safety belts
• Electronic Park Brake
• Front and Rear Automatic Braking
• Enhanced Side Blind Zone Alert – new to Cadillac for 2015
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Full-color head-up display.

The advanced technologies complement other ATS safety features, including eight standard air bags, safety belt pretensioners and load limiters, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with full-function traction control and four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel ABS, patented rotor coating protection and auto-dry functionality.

USA- - Jaguar announces three renowned actors to appear in its first super bowl commercial launching “British Villains” campaign for new F-Type coupe

• Renowned British actors Sir Ben Kingsley, Tom Hiddleston and Mark Strong to star in Jaguar’s cinematic “Rendezvous” spot, filmed by Oscar-winning British director Tom Hooper
• The 60-second ad will debut during Super Bowl XLVIII, February 2 on Fox
• Spot launches “British Villains” campaign, running through July, and raises the bar of automotive advertising to cinematic caliber for the introduction of the F-TYPE Coupe, Jaguar’s all-new, high-performance sports car
• Robust, multi-channel campaign includes broadcast, digital, print, OOH and innovative Super Bowl week activations
• Jaguar grows U.S. sales by 41 percent in 2013 on power of F-TYPE convertible and new all-wheel drive XF and XJ models

Today, Jaguar North America announced the three renowned actors to appear in “Rendezvous,” its 60-second television advertisement to debut during the second half of Super Bowl XLVIII, and revealed details of its largest-ever brand and product marketing campaign, called “British Villains,” which introduces the Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe (on sale spring, 2014). “Rendezvous” stars Sir Ben Kingsley, Tom Hiddleston and Mark Strong, and was filmed by Oscar-winning British director, Tom Hooper, in London. It is Jaguar’s first Super Bowl TV advertisement.

“With ‘British Villains,’ Jaguar will present itself on the Super Bowl stage as a challenger to the usual luxury car suspects, with a unique cinematic expression of our modern British style,” said Jeff Curry, Brand Vice President, Jaguar North America. “With the three renowned actors, Sir Ben, Tom and Mark, who have all played memorable film rogues, we have brought together the best of British film to star in a major motion picture caliber campaign that addresses the simple cultural observation that Brits often play the best villains in film. This talent, coupled with the direction of Academy Award-winner director Tom Hooper, enables us to launch our campaign for the F-TYPE Coupe in a manner that captures the new spirit of the entire brand inspired by our latest sports car.”

“Jaguar is truly a beloved British brand and it’s exciting to help them make some noise as they debut in a beloved American event, the Super Bowl,” said Sir Ben Kingsley. “As for being known for playing the roles of renowned villains, I’ll have to ponder that one – I think I’m flattered?!”

The campaign creative, developed with a cinematic vision, centers around the new “Rendezvous” television commercial. In addition to the 60-second spot to air in the Super Bowl, a 30-second preview of “Rendezvous” will debut online on January 28 and run on high-profile, digital channels throughout February. Jaguar also previewed its Super Bowl spot with “The Setup,” staring Sir Ben Kingsley, during the CBS and FOX NFL Divisional Playoff games, January 11 and 12. At the end of the commercial, viewers were invited to view “The Setup” on the campaign’s dedicated landing page, www.BritishVillains.com, and use the unique hashtag, #GoodToBeBad to engage with the brand throughout the campaign. The original score for “Rendezvous” was composed and conducted by Alexandre Desplat, who worked with Tom Hooper on The King’s Speech and recorded by The London Symphony Orchestra at the iconic Abbey Road studios.

The “British Villains” campaign and its many supporting assets were produced specifically for the launch of the F-TYPE Coupe around the broadcast of the 2014 Super Bowl and builds on the momentum of Jaguar following the successful launch of the F-TYPE convertible and a 41 percent sales increase in 2013.

“2014 will continue a very significant period in the growth of the Jaguar brand, marked by quickly rising sales, and new beautifully designed products coming to market, like the F-TYPE Coupe this year, and in the future, an all-new compact sports sedan,” added Curry. “This is perhaps the brand’s most memorable marketing campaign and deserves to appear in one of the most-watched sporting events, the Super Bowl.”

“British Villains” captures the premise that Brits have long made the best villains in landmark films, combining intelligence with charm, restlessness with calm, and always confident. In the world of pop culture, villains disrupt the status quo and challenge the establishment, while living one step ahead of, and better than, the pack. The campaign asks the question, ‘Have you ever noticed how in Hollywood movies, all the villains are played by Brits?’ It was filmed by Hooper in London in a creative partnership with his Smuggler Films production house.

“This is one of those jobs that can really be a lot of fun, so I was quite happy to oblige when Jaguar asked me to be a part of their first Super Bowl commercial,” said Hooper. “To work with the caliber of great actors we cast in this project is a truly special experience on its own and reflects the cinematic approach that we took in the production with Jaguar.”

SPARK44, the lead strategic communications partner for Jaguar, was responsible for the creative positioning and strategy behind the campaign, while Mindshare managed the communications planning and buying. In addition to broadcast, the multi-channel campaign will feature unique outdoor creative throughout New York City, print, digital and consumer activations hosted with a wide array of media partners, and special events in the week leading up to the Super Bowl.

During the game, Jaguar aims to be the most real-time engaged advertiser during the Super Bowl through a unique physical space called “The Loop,” developed by Mindshare, where multiple screens will monitor real-time consumer data and translate it into actionable insights, and ultimately, rapid marketing decisions, or “Adaptive Marketing.”

“The Loop” is the first real-time marketing tool to impact paid media – whereby media dollars can be quickly shifted and redeployed to leverage opportunities uncovered by the data. Rapid, relevant and responsive, “The Loop” puts data at the center and creates a channel-agnostic, holistic approach to real-time marketing in an unprecedented manner.

Other marketing assets from Jaguar’s “British Villains” campaign include:

• New York City out-of-home placements, including an innovative F-TYPE wrap of 10 subway cars on the F-Train line (CBSOutdoor) and 20 street level wild postings in New York City, January 13 through February 9
• Cable TV run of the 30-second “Rendezvous” spot on networks such as BBC America, IFC and ESPN, February 3 through February 23
• Print ads break in early February (March/April books) in top national lifestyle and auto enthusiast publications such as Motor Trend, Car and Driver and Sports Illustrated
• Digital Advertising (banner ads) breaks on January 20
• A BritishVillains.com landing page will launch on JaguarUSA.com, hosting “in-character” five-second sound bites from Sir Ben, Tom and Mark, that speak to capabilities of Jaguar’s high-performance R models and an in-depth behind-the-scenes making of “Rendezvous;” it also will allow users to view additional content, share content on social media sites and gather information about the F-TYPE Coupe and the R line of performance cars
• Media buys with BBC America.com for their “Anglophenia” blog, and with NFL.com for “The 6 Borough Experience
• Integrated partnerships with IFC, Gawker, Sports Illustrated and Pandora that includes:
• IFC to present “Villains on Villains” Double Feature Film Night on February 10, featuring Silence of the Lambs and A Clockwork Orange, iconic films starring British villains
• Gawker Media is producing and publishing a themed kinja page, http://goodtobebad.kinja.com/, and is hosting a co-sponsored event in the week leading up to the Super Bowl
• Sports Illustrated will host British Villains advertising on SI.com, while Jaguar will sponsor an original video series about infamous sports villains
• Jaguar will team up with Pandora Radio to invite subscribers to contribute to the GoodToBeBad Mixtape – a crowdsourced compilation of the best of British music for release on January 20.

The new all-aluminum F-TYPE Coupe, including the first F-TYPE R model, expands the Jaguar lineup beginning in spring 2014 and starting at $65,0001. Available in three versions, the F-TYPE R Coupe is powered by a 550hp 5-liter supercharged V8 engine and will reach 60 mph in 4.0 seconds, and a top speed of 186 mph (electronically limited)2. The F-TYPE S Coupe and F-TYPE Coupe are powered by 3-liter supercharged V6 engines in 380hp and 340hp forms respectively, going 0-60 mph in 4.8/5.1 seconds and top speeds of 171/161 mph2.

Biographies of Jaguar’s “British Villains” campaign stars:

Sir Ben Kingsley is recognized as one of the finest British actors and first earned international fame for his performance in the 1982 movie, Gandhi. His performance as "Mahatma Gandhi" earned him international fame. He has won multiple awards, including an Oscar for Best Actor, a Golden Globe, BAFTA and London Film Critics' Circle Awards. Kingsley has appeared in countless other acclaimed films, including Schindler's List, The Tale of Sweeney Todd and Anne Frank: The Whole Story, for which he won a Screen Actors' Guild Award. Throughout his career, Kingsley has played many “villainous” roles, including those in the films Sexy Beast and Iron Man 3. He was awarded Knight Bachelor in the Queen's New Year's Honors List in 2002. In 2010, Kingsley was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Tom Hiddleston is a young British actor and is best known for playing the character of Loki in the Marvel Studios films Thor, The Avengers and Thor: The Dark World. Other notable roles have included Steven Spielberg's World War I film War Horse, Jim Jarmusch's Only Lovers Left Alive, the British drama The Deep Blue Sea, Woody Allen's romantic comedy Midnight in Paris, the 2012 BBC series Henry IV and Henry V. He is currently playing Coriolanus at the Donmar Warehouse at Covent Garden theatre in London's West End. Tom won the MTV Movie Award for ‘Best Fight’ and ‘Best Villain’ in 2013 for his role in The Avengers.

Mark Strong is a British actor who is best known for his roles in Sherlock Holmes, Body of Lies, The Young Victoria, Syriana, Kick-Ass, Green Lantern, Zero Dark Thirty, Robin Hood, and John Carter. He often portrays villains or antagonists. Strong is also a familiar face on British television, where he has had starring roles in two BBC drama series, including Our Friends in the North and The Long Firm, for which he earned a BAFTA nomination.

Tom Hooper is an Academy Award-winning British film and television director best known for his work in The King's Speech (2010), Les Miserables (2012) and The Damned United (2009) and TV mini-series John Adams.

Toyota unveils its Ultimate sports coupe concept.

A daring new Toyota coupe concept breaks cover at the Detroit motor show today. The new FT-1 concept is the result of Toyota’s Calty design studio’s mission to create the ultimate sports car.

The California-based team, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, has produced a car that is strikingly modern, yet which makes reference to Toyota’s rich sports car history, going back to the 2000GT of the mid-1960s.

The exterior captures the look of racecar with a curvilinear form, pronounced front wings and sharply defined contrasts that express powerful performance. The FT-1’s optimum aerodynamic qualities are communicated by its large air intakes, exhaust ports and retractable rear wing.

The front engine/rear-wheel drive configuration allows the cockpit to set further towards the rear of the car, within the wheelbase, helping improve weight distribution and create classic sports car proportions. The wraparound windscreen and side glass arrangement are a clear nod to the design of the original 2000GT.

The ergonomics of the cabin capitalise on the car’s low centre of gravity, helping the driver derive the maximum reward from the driving experience. A delta-shaped display zone helps make the driver feel at the heart of the action, fully connected to the car. This quality is reinforced by the Formula 1-style steering wheel and a colour head-up display that projects key information just above the wheel. The designers have pushed the A-pillars as far back as possible, to increase visibility when cornering.

Traditionally Toyota’s design decisions have been driven by consensus among a large group of people; as part of a company movement to give Toyota products more energy and passion, the process has been streamlined. This approach has been fundamental to the development of the FT-1, a concept that captures Toyota’s aim of creating cars that connect more deeply with customers and generate a more satisfying ownership experience.

Rolls Royce finished 2013 with record sales for 4th consecutive year.

• 3,630 cars delivered to customers in 2013, the fourth consecutive record year and the highest in the marque’s history.
• Rolls-Royce confirms leadership of super-luxury segment over Euros 200,000 net.
• Rolls-Royce remains the world’s leading super-luxury automobile.
• Bespoke content at highest-ever levels.
• Rolls-Royce motor cars are now sold in more than 40 countries worldwide.
• China and United States in top two regional positions.
• 100 new jobs to be created at the Goodwood-based manufacturing plant in 2014.
• Rolls-Royce reaffirms position at pinnacle of British luxury goods manufacturing.
• Highest annual sales are announced in the marque’s 110th year.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars today revealed record sales results for 2013. 3,630 cars were sold globally during the year, which represents the company’s fourth consecutive record. The result is announced in the 110th year of the marque.

These results confirm Rolls-Royce’s clear position as the world’s leading super-luxury brand.  Strong sales growth was reported across the globe, with notable results seen in the Middle East (up 17%) and China (up 11%). Several countries recorded strong sales performances, including Germany, Japan, Qatar and Canada. China and the United States remained the most significant individual markets for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars followed by the Middle East. Rolls-Royce sold motor cars in more than 40 countries worldwide, building on success in emerging markets such as Istanbul, Beirut, Lagos, Hanoi, Perth, Taichung, Queensland
and Perth.

As part of the company’s commitment to long-term sustainable growth, there was significant dealer development during the year. 15 new dealerships opened across the world, taking the total to 120 for the first time in the company’s history. Further dealership expansion is planned for 2014.

The Company also announced a 2014 recruitment programme for 100 new permanent jobs based at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, primarily in the manufacturing areas. This is in addition to the 100 new jobs announced in July 2013. More than 1300 people are now employed by Rolls-Royce worldwide.

“I stated at the beginning of last year that I wished to see further sustainable growth, I am therefore delighted with this fourth successive record year, a result that reaffirms our leadership of the super-luxury segment,” said Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “This is an extraordinary British manufacturing success story borne out of a commitment to delivering only the very finest super-luxury goods. I am particularly satisfied to report that this result is based on a balanced global sales picture, with continued success in emerging markets paving the way for future sustainable growth.”

Business Secretary Vince Cable said, “Rolls-Royce’s impressive sales record and the new jobs they have created shows the strength of this iconic brand and reflects the rising success of the British car industry. Last year, car exports generated over £30 billion for our economy – a rise of around 7%. The Government's industrial strategy is giving businesses like Rolls-Royce the confidence to invest – delivering skilled jobs and driving growth.”

Andrew Tyrie, Member of Parliament for Chichester, said, “This is very good news for Britain and for my constituents. I’m delighted for Rolls-Royce and for all those who work there. It’s great to have such a centre of excellence near Chichester.”

2013 also marked another record for the Rolls-Royce Bespoke personalisation programme, a service unmatched in the automotive world. Nearly every Phantom family model, and three out of every four Ghosts, left the Home of Rolls-Royce with bespoke personalisation.

Wraith was offered with Bespoke capability from the start of production and many customers have already taken the opportunity to personalise their new motor cars. Sales were also enhanced by several exceptional bespoke collections in 2013, including Home of Rolls-Royce and Alpine Trial Centenary, and a number of unique creations, including the Celestial Phantom and Ghost Golden Sunbird.

The company’s portfolio includes the pinnacle Phantom family products – Phantom, Phantom Extended Wheelbase, Phantom Drophead Coupé and Phantom Coupé – and the Ghost family – Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase. Demand for all variants was strong. The company’s new model, Wraith, was unveiled in March at the Geneva Motor Show to worldwide acclaim and the first customer cars were delivered during the fourth quarter. Wraith already has a strong order book.

Rolls‑Royce has successfully retained its position at the very pinnacle of the super-luxury market, maintaining segment leadership for motor cars selling above Euros 200,000 net. No other luxury brand sells as many cars in this segment as Rolls-Royce.

Heritage: 110th Year Anniversary

The company founders, the Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls and Frederick Henry Royce (later Sir Henry Royce) first met in May 1904 at the Midland Hotel in Manchester. Both parties knew each other by repute and they were introduced by Henry Edmunds, a business associate, fellow pioneer motorist and Director of Royce Limited. Rolls agreed to take Royce's entire production and the cars were to be marketed as Rolls‑Royces from late 1904. Here was the start of a legend where the two names became synonymous with superlative quality in so many spheres and which continues to this day.

Volvo'c latests XC concept the way forward for the XC90?

The second of Volvo’s three concept cars is the new Volvo Concept XC Coupé. Inspired by the design of modern sports equipment and demonstrating the safety capabilities of Volvo’s new Scalable Product Architecture, it is a sophisticated and capable car for people with an active lifestyle.

“Those who love extreme sports freely seek new thrills and challenges. To ensure that they make it back in one piece, they prefer high-performance equipment that offers the ultimate sense of freedom and protection,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Senior Vice President Design of Volvo Car Group.

“The Volvo Concept XC Coupé is perfectly in tune with this active lifestyle. Its capability and protection is cleverly integrated into the sophisticated looks. Concept XC Coupé is ready and willing to bring you into the adventure zone and back,” he adds.

Sleeker and safer at the same time

The three concept cars are designed to demonstrate vital elements of the company’s new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA): the confident stance, the proportions and the most prominent design signatures.

“Concept XC Coupé also shows how clever engineering makes it possible for us to reinforce our world-leading safety without compromising design, size or weight. Thanks to the extensive use of high-strength boron steel and structures with new, ingenious decoupling, we can make SPA cars more compact and safer at the same time,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

The two-door, four-seater Volvo Concept XC Coupé has a strong connection with its sibling, the Volvo Concept Coupé. However, the larger 21-inch wheels, the more accentuated wheel-arches and the taller roofline all contribute to a more robust impression and a fuller, capable look.

The extended distance between the dashboard and the front axle is still a very powerful visual element. The capable stance is emphasised by details such as the new bonnet and a beltline that spans an elegant bow along the length of the car.

High-tech sport gear

The connection with modern, high-tech sports gear is highly present in the concept car. Among the sources of inspiration for the design team is the Swedish company POC, which develops high-tech protective gear for extreme sports athletes.

“Several orange details and exterior graphics in combination with bold use of matte rubber mouldings, which cover the rear end of the car, add to the highly functional expression of the design,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

To strike the right balance between aesthetics and functionality, the design team has also given traditional SUV elements, such as side mouldings and skid plates, a modern interpretation. They are more integrated into the sleek design, flush with the surrounding body areas.

T-shaped DRL lights

Just like the Volvo Concept Coupé, the face of the Volvo Concept XC Coupé is characterised by a new topography on the bonnet and the ‘floating’ grille, flanked by headlights featuring new T-shaped DRL light guides. The rear light signature is also a distinctive element in the new design direction of Volvo Cars.

“Both concept cars show how we can shape our cars from now on. We add emotional value to the Volvo brand with the calm, confident beauty that is the hallmark of Scandinavian design,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

Building on a proud XC heritage

Volvo Cars paved the way for a completely new segment by introducing the V70 Cross Country in 1997. The range has been continuously developed and extended since then. Presently, it spans from the Volvo V40 Cross Country, via the XC60 and XC70, to the XC90.

“With the Volvo Concept XC Coupé, we take this unique blend of capable ruggedness and expressive elegance up to a new, sportier attitude,” says Thomas Ingenlath.

Laser lights to appear on AUDI Sport quattro Coupe Concept.

• Dynamic coupe has powerful plug-in hybrid drive
• Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of AUDI AG, Technical Development: “This show car embodies our engineering competence and shows cutting-edge electronic features such as high-performance laser-light headlights.”

Dynamic design, immense power and new electronic features: Audi is presenting a fascinating technology concept car at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) from January 6 to 10, 2014 in Las Vegas, USA. The Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept is reminiscent of the classic Sport quattro of 1983 while pointing towards the future – with the latest of the brand's technologies in plug-in hybrid drives, user control and display interfaces and lighting technology.

“The new show car demonstrates technical ‘Vorsprung’ on many levels,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg. “On-board this car we have e-tron technology with 515 kW of power and 2.5 l/100 km (94.09 US mpg) fuel economy; laser headlights that leave all previous systems in the dark with its higher performance as well as new display and operating systems with cutting-edge electronic performance. We are showing the future of Audi here.”

The coupe, a new evolutionary stage of the Sport quattro concept, painted in the color Plasma Red, combines the power of the historic Sport quattro with emotional elegance. Its body is tautly set over its large wheels. The overhangs are short, and the car's proportions show a sporty balance. With a wheelbase of 2,784 mm (109.61 in), it is 4,602 mm (181.18 in) long. At a width of 1,964 mm (77.32 in), the two-door model is very wide, and it is just 1,386 mm (54.57 in) tall, which is exceptionally low.

In the dual headlights, a typical quattro feature, Audi is demonstrating the future of lighting technology by combining matrix LED and laser light technologies. Two low-profile trapezoidal elements are visible within the headlights – the outer one generates the low beam light using matrix LEDs and an aperture mask, while the inner element produces laser light for high-beam functionality.

The powerful laser diodes are significantly smaller than LED diodes; they are only a few microns in diameter. Illuminating the road for a distance of nearly 500 meters (1,640 ft), the laser high-beam light has approximately twice the lighting range and three times the luminosity of LED high beam lights. In this future technology, Audi is once again demonstrating its leadership role in automotive lighting technology with a system that will also be used on the race track in the 2014 R18 e-tron quattro.

The angular, swept-back C pillars of the Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept car and the blisters above the fenders are other design elements reminiscent of the classic Sport quattro. The broad shoulders of the body were reinterpreted and intensively sculpted to convey even greater dynamism. Throughout the car, sharp contours frame muscular surfaces – the interplay between convex and concave curvatures defines the athletic character of the coupe.

The hexagonal single-frame grille also offers an outlook on future design of the sporty production models. The lower section is nearly vertical, while the upper follows the contour of the hood; the screen insert is a typical solution from car racing. The low grille emphasizes the show car's width. Two large, vertical blades divide each of the large air inlets; their form is repeated in the creases of the hood. The splitter, which is made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), is shifted far to the front, as on a race car.

The combination of a swept-back glass cabin and broad shoulders defines the proportions at the rear. Another defining element at the rear of the show car is the CFRP diffuser, which extends upward significantly. Its upper section is honeycombed, while its lower section houses two large, oval tailpipes. The tail lights, which are backed by a black CFRP panel, are rectangular in form – another quattro reference. The luggage space, which is reinforced by a large cross bar stiffener, offers 300 liters (10.59 cu ft) of cargo capacity.

Precise design details round out the dynamic look of the Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept. The sill extensions are made of CFRP, the door handles electrically extend from the door when they detect the approach of a hand. The center locking wheels have a five twin-spoke design.

Lightweight design made visible: the interior
In its generously cut interior, the elegant sporty styling of the show car is continued with dark gray colors and clean lines. The interior design and material selections demonstrate the Audi philosophy of lightweight design. The slender instrument panel is reminiscent of the wing of a sailplane. The supporting structure of the interior is a carbon shell that also serves as a storage compartment in the doors.

A line of trim beneath the windshield wraps around the driver and front passenger and integrates functions such as the inside door handles. The folding race car shell seats with their high lateral supports and integrated head restraints, together with the two rear seats, provide space for four persons. The climate controls are integrated in the air nozzles; a single element is used to control the intensity, temperature and volume of the air stream. In addition to showing climate control settings, the slim display at the centers of the air nozzles also shows media data.

New solutions: displays and controls
The interior of the Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept focuses very much on the driver. Even the multifunction sport steering wheel points the way towards future sporty production solutions. It has two buttons which the driver can use to control the hybrid drive, a red start-stop button, a button for the Audi drive select vehicle handling system and a "View" button to control the Audi virtual cockpit.

All key information is shown on the large Audi TFT display in high-resolution, three-dimensional graphics; a cutting-edge Tegra 30 processor from Audi partner Nvidia processes the graphics. The driver can switch between different modes. For example, in the MMI mode the dominant display elements include the navigation map and media lists, while in the Classic view the speedometer appears in the foreground.

Nearly all functions of the Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept can be controlled from the further developed MMI terminal that is mounted on the center console over the tunnel. Its large rotary pushbutton, which also serves as a touchpad, can be pushed in four directions, and it is surrounded on three sides by four buttons – for the main menu, submenus, options and a back function.

The new user interface has a menu structure whose intuitive layout is similar to that of a smart phone. All frequently used functions can be accessed lightning fast. For most inputs, just a few steps are needed thanks to a new free text search feature; generally just four characters suffice for a navigation address. The driver can quickly scroll through lists or zoom the map image using multitouch gestures on the touchpad. Voice control functionality has also been intensively further developed.

Powerful and highly efficient: the drive system
The plug-in hybrid drive gives the Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept fascinating dynamic performance. Its system output is 515 kW (700 hp), and its system torque is 800 Nm (590.05 lb-ft). Power flows via a modified eight-speed tiptronic to the quattro drivetrain, which features a sport differential at the rear axle. The show car's combined fuel consumption, based on the applicable fuel economy standard, is just 2.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (94.09 US mpg) – which equates to CO2 emissions of 59 g/km (94.95 g/mile).

The combustion engine is a four-liter V8 with biturbo charging; it produces 412 kW (560 hp) of power and 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft) of torque. The cylinder on demand (COD) system, which deactivates four cylinders under part load and a start-stop system make the sonorous eight-cylinder engine very efficient. Located between the 4.0 TFSI and the transmission is a disc-shaped electric motor that produces 110 kW and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft). It draws its drive energy from a lithium-ion battery at the rear, which stores 14.1 kWh of energy – enough for up to 50 km (31.07 miles) of all-electric driving. An Audi wallbox that is used for charging provides for optimal energy transfer.

An intelligent management system controls the interplay of engine and motor on demand. The driver can switch between three different modes. In EV mode, just the electric motor operates; its high torque propels the show car with plenty of power – even outside of the city. The active accelerator pedal indicates the transition to Hybrid mode to the driver – by a change in pedal resistance; this is done so that the driver can intentionally influence the mode selection.

The Hybrid mode aims at optimal fuel-savings in the interplay between the TFSI and the electric motor, and environmental and route data are utilized here. The driver can choose the Hold and Charge modes in the MMI to influence the operating strategy, e.g. if the driver wants to ensure that sufficient electrical energy is available for the final kilometers to the destination. The Audi drive select dynamic vehicle handling system offers even more control options – individual driving profiles are set up for different levels of regenerative braking.

In Sport mode, the operating strategy configures the drive system for maximum power. When the V8 and electric motor are boosting, the Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.7 seconds and can reach a top speed of 305 km/h (189.52 mph).

Body and chassis
A lightweight design strategy also plays a major role in the car's dynamic performance. A combination of ultra high-strength steel sheet and structural elements of cast aluminum is used in the occupant cell. The doors and fenders are made of aluminum, and the roof, engine hood and rear hatch are made of CFRP. This results in an unladen weight of just 1,850 kilograms (4,078.55 lb), including the large battery pack.

The front suspension is comprised of five links per wheel, while the rear suspension is based on the self-tracking trapezoidal link principle of Audi, which guarantees dynamic performance and stability. Stiff tuning of the springs and shock absorbers make the Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept hold tightly to the road, while Audi drive select makes the driving experience even more multifaceted. The dynamic steering system varies the steering ratio as a function of driving speed. The brake calipers grip large, carbon fiber-ceramic brake discs, and the tire size is 285/30 R 21.

USA - Upcoming Lexus RC Coupe Available in Striking New Red Paint Color

• Upcoming RC Coupe Available in Striking New Red Paint Color
• The Head-Turning Hue is Achieved Using a Combination of a Silver and Red Base
• RC Coupe Set to Launch in 2014

Not even Rudolph’s nose can compare to the striking red paint on the all-new RC Coupe. A more dynamic red exterior paint color is made brighter and with more contrast thanks to an entirely new painting process, using a two-color base of both silver and red.  The shiny and bright RC coupe is set to launch in 2014.

The luminous red paint is achieved through a meticulous paint process using four base coats of paint which are then baked twice. Layers of coloured and clear coating are used to control some of the colours reflections and establish a balance between the brightness and depth – two elements that traditionally work against each other.

For the red exterior, the factory starts with a base coat of silver and then applies a clear coat.
Then, the clear coat is covered by a translucent red coat, which is then topped with another clear coat.
The four coats of paint are baked twice to set the colour.

As a result, light hitting the paint reflects off the red layer and also off the silver layer below, which adds depth and a metallic highlight to the red colouration.  Prior to this new, two-colour base process, the factory used base coats with the same colour tone (red and red).

The all-new RC Coupe was unveiled at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show and will be on display at the Lexus space at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

TMW - What to look forward to in 2014

2013 was a great year for The Motoring World, Our first year, The return of Datsun and SAAB, brand new niche cars from Rolls Royce, Bentley and its return to motorsport and the Bentley Boys, the ever increasing sight of SUV's on the roads of the world, and a world that is slowly but surely creeping out of its financial situation that started nearly 5 years ago.

So what do we have to look forward to next year, an huge amount, some truly stunning supercars, more SUV's in varying sizes and engines, some famous hatchbacks, small and fun mini cars and a whole host of sports cars, below are just a small sample of some the cars that we expect to see the light of day either to buy or launched to conceptual stage.

Family cars

Audi A3 E-tron (summer 2014)
Hybrid model of our 2013 Car of the Year blends hot hatch pace with CO2 emissions of 35g/km.

Hyundai i10 (early 2014)
City car gets the latest family look and greater refinement.

Kia Soul (early 2014)
Promises improvements to refinement and driving dynamics.

Mazda 3 (January 2014)
Will be lighter than today’s 3, thanks to Skyactiv technology.

MINI (early 2014)
New model gets revised dashboard and engines and bodywork.

Peugeot 308 (January 2014)
Lighter than current car, with a much classier cabin.

Renault Megane (early 2014)
Face-lifted range gets Renault family look and new petrol engine.

Skoda Rapid Spaceback (January 2014)
Shorter version of Rapid, but has more boot space than a VW Golf.

Smart Forfour (autumn 2014)
Next-generation city car will be available with either conventional engines or electric powertrains.

Vauxhall Corsa (autumn 2014)
Revamp of current car will introduce three-cylinder engines.

Volkswagen e-Golf (summer 2014)
Golf gets a 113bhp electric motor with 118-mile zero-emission range.

Volkswagen e-Up (early 2014)
Electric Up is the quickest model in the range; 100-mile range on one charge.

Estate cars

Honda Civic Tourer (early 2014)
Swish-looking estate gets a bigger boot than rivals from Ford, Skoda and Volkswagen.

Peugeot 308 SW (autumn 2014)
Estate will get the same three-cylinder engines that are due in the hatch next year.

Seat Leon ST (January 2014)
New model will beat Astra and Focus Estates on boot space.

Executives

Audi S3 Saloon (early 2014)
Hot version of Audi’s new 3 Series rival gets 296bhp, four-wheel drive and does 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds.

Infiniti Q50 (January 2014)
G Series replacement gets new name and engines, including a V6 petrol-electric hybrid.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (spring 2014)
All-new executive car will be offered with a hybrid powertrain.

Luxury

Audi A8 (January 2014)
Updated model gets styling tweaks and changes to engine line-up.

Bentley Continental GT V8 S (early 2014)
More powerful versions of the GT have re-tuned suspension and steering.

Tesla Model S (early 2014)
Luxury electric car will go up to 300 miles on one charge.

MPVs

Citroën Grand C4 Picasso (January 2014)
Seven-seat MPV gets more practicality and efficiency.

Small SUVs

Audi RS Q3 (January 2014)
Evoque rival gets 306bhp engine and four-wheel drive.

Ford Ecosport (spring 2014)
Fiesta-based SUV will get a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine.

Jeep Cherokee (early 2014)
Freelander rival will borrow Fiat diesel engine to boost UK sales.

MG CS  (Late 2014 Concept)
Based on MG5 underpinnings too little, too late.

Mercedes GLA (December 2013)
A new rival for the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Range Rover Evoque.

Porsche Macan (spring 2014)
Cayenne’s baby brother will share underpinnings with the Audi Q5.

Skoda Yeti (January 2014)
Family favourite gets a face-lift, plus more standard equipment.

Ssangyong Korando (early 2014)
Bigger than the current model, but likely to get same engine line-up and two- or four-wheel drive.

Large SUVs

BMW X4 (spring 2014)
Expect ‘son of X6’ to cost around £3k more than equivalent X3s.

Land Rover Discovery (November 2013)
Face-lifted model gets better fuel economy and more equipment.

Nissan X-Trail (July 2014)
More stylish than current car; available as five- or seven-seater with two- or four-wheel drive.

Ssangyong Rexton W (December 2013)
Budget seven-seat off-roader gets 2.0-litre diesel engine.

Toyota Land Cruiser (December 2013)
Seven-seat SUV gets a face-lift and revised dashboard design.

Coupes

Peugeot RCZ R (early 2014)
The company’s most powerful production car ever gets 270bhp.

Open-tops

Audi A3 Cabriolet (winter 2013)
Longer, lower and lighter than the current car. S3 version will follow.

BMW 4 Series Convertible (early 2014)
New 4 Series loses its roof; keeps same range of engines.

Hot hatches

Seat Leon Cupra (autumn 2014)
Promises understated looks, but more power than the VW Golf GTI.

Volkswagen Golf R (spring 2014)
Choice of three- or five-door 296bhp hatch; 0-62mph in 4.9secs

Sports cars

BMW M4 (autumn 2014)
New range-topping coupé follows M4 Concept revealed in Frankfurt.

So, there you go, a taster of what is to come next year, from the small and cheap to the outlandish and uber expensive, and everything in between, but one thing for sure is that the automotive world will be a force again next year, and not just from the usual suspects, expect the Chinese to pick up momentum and make small inroads into the world auto market, but rest assured they are coming, like the Japanese in the 60's and the Koreans in the 80's with big brands behind the Chinese names and extremely healthy bank balances they can compete and will get better and will be, before long, names that trip of our tongues like Ford, Rolls Royce and Mercedes do now.

Have a great 2014.

Info courtesy of CAR MAGAZINE

Jon Mower