As we come to the end of another week we look at some of the motoring news which you may have missed starting with the ŠKODA who have released exterior design sketches of the new Fabia.
ŠKODA AUTO is building anticipation for the upcoming fourth generation of the Fabia by releasing the first official design sketches. The popular small car from the Czech car manufacturer will be significantly larger, more dynamic and more expressive than its successful predecessors. Switching over to the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Transverse Toolkit MQB-A0 has made the new proportions possible and created even more space for passengers and luggage. Additional highlights include the sharply drawn front headlights and rear lights featuring LED technology. The world premiere of the new ŠKODA Fabia will take place this May.
Two of the design sketches show the clear, modern and dynamically drawn lines of the new ŠKODA Fabia. The fourth generation will be 111 millimetres longer and 48 millimetres wider than its predecessor. This is the first time the new Fabia will be based on the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Transverse Toolkit MQB-A0. In addition to even more space for passengers, this also adds an extra 50 litres to the boot. The diagonal front view offers a first glimpse of the flat front headlights and the wide ŠKODA grille, which has a sporty, elegant look with a chrome frame and black ribs. Large wheels also enhance the powerful appearance.
The elongated roof spoiler with side finlets ensure excellent aerodynamics along with the aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors and actively adjustable cooling shutters in the front bumper’s lower air inlet.
The other sketches give a more detailed impression of the new ŠKODA Fabia’s modern light units. The modules resemble blocks of ice in the sharply cut full-LED front headlights, which extend up to the ŠKODA grille. An L-shaped daytime running light module can be seen, as well. ŠKODA’s signature crystalline elements can also be found in the graphics of the distinctly flat rear lights that will be available in a full-LED version.
Evolving to the next level: New Polo is one of the first in its class to offer partly automated driving
With more than 18 million units built, the Polo is one of the world’s most successful compact cars. Now, in a world premiere, Volkswagen is set to unveil the next evolutionary stage of the Polo; presales will start in May already. The design, technologies and specification matrix of the bestseller have had a comprehensive update, as is immediately obvious when you see the vehicle’s 
new front and rear. And the range of standard equipment has been expanded significantly. On board every model you will now find: LED headlights and LED tail light clusters, the Digital Cockpit (digital instruments), an infotainment system and a multifunction steering wheel, among other things. In addition, the Polo now offers partly automated driving across its entire speed range thanks to the optional IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist system. Other new features include interactive IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights and operation of the automatic air conditioning via touchscreen.
The new Polo uses technologies that have previously only been available in higher vehicle classes. For example, there is the optional assist system IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist. Available for the first time in the Polo class, this brings together the new predictive ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) and Lane Assist – which now comes as standard in every Polo – to create a new assist system that enables partly automated driving. The fact is: you’d struggle to find another car in this class that offers such an innovative spectrum of assist systems as the Polo. The new IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights are another technological highlight of the Polo; this interactive lighting system was used for the first time in the Touareg luxury SUV.
All-new HR-V: Efficient and responsive performance delivered by proven Honda e:HEV technologies
The all-new HR-V e:HEV is powered by Honda’s advanced two-motor hybrid powertrain technology, delivering a blend of efficiency and responsive performance. The sub-compact SUV joins Honda’s e:HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) model line-up for the first time and represents one of the final steps in the brand’s commitment to electrifying all its European mainstream models by 2022.
When reimagining the HR-V, Honda set out to create a car with a desirable blend of stand-out design, exceptional efficiency and ultimate usability. Conceived to meet the exacting needs of modern consumers, the new model achieves a rare balance of premium SUV styling and exceptional spaciousness, with compact dimensions and easy entry and exit for passengers. All this is enabled by Honda’s ‘Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum’ (M/M) principle, which centres on the belief that the purpose of technology and design is to serve the needs of the driver and passengers.
With its forward-oriented character lines and smooth surfaces the next-generation HR-V e:HEV embodies the brand’s simple, clean, modern design philosophy already seen in recent new Honda models.
Defined by the same key design concepts of function and beauty, the compact coupe-inspired shape is familiar yet exciting in appearance, with a playful character and confident SUV stance. Its sleek silhouette is achieved by increasing road clearance by 10 mm and reducing the roof height by 20 mm compared to the previous model. Increasing the size of the wheels to 18 inches, which come as standard on the all-new HR-V, and reducing the front overhang further reinforce the robust SUV appeal, and provides the aesthetic solidity that modern customers desire.
The clean simplicity of design is realised through the car’s smooth surfaces, with exterior design features incorporated into the body shape. For example, the headlights, unique body-coloured grille and distinctive lower mesh grille seamlessly integrate with the forward-protruding nose shape and front quarter panels, giving it a more sculpted appearance and creating a sleek, bold expression.
Inside the new HR-V, every design element is dedicated to achieving a sense of generous spaciousness and airiness that connects occupants to the outside world, with levels of comfort and practicality unrivalled in the sub-compact SUV segment. Contemporary fabrics and textured materials create a solid, premium feel, with the quality of soft-touch materials.
The interior was designed with a focus on space and light to elevate the sense of airiness in the cabin. This airy feeling is amplified by a unique ‘Air Diffusion System’ where L-shaped vents are positioned in the top corners of the dashboard. This new system addresses a disparity in traditional vent configurations, where passengers often feel uncomfortable with air flowing directly onto them. The system subtly directs a stream of air along the front side windows to the roof, creating a vortex of air beside and above occupants. The effect of these new vents does not impact directly on passengers but creates a comfortable internal environment for all.
The sense of connection with the outside world begins with excellent outward visibility. This has been enabled by several enhancements. Firstly, a new driving position, which is 10 mm higher than the previous model. In addition, windows that are designed to admit as much light as possible, which are aided by the horizontally orientated, noiseless instrumental panel to the flat line of the bonnet. Furthermore, the mirror attachment has moved lower down the door, improving visibility around the three-quarter area when turning.
Honda’s next-generation body stabilising front seats feature mat-structure support, replacing the previous spring set-up, which helps prevent fatigue on long journeys and increases comfort in everyday use. For additional comfort while driving, the interior controls are optimally positioned as close as possible to the driver’s field of vision. The uncluttered, simple-to-use layout further adds to the sense of spaciousness, with instantly recognisable audio and ventilation controls allowing for safe and intuitive operation.
Honda’s proven e:HEV hybrid technology delivers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, with responsive performance and impressive fuel efficiency. It comprises two compact, powerful electric motors connected to a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, with peak power output from the propulsion motor of 96 kW (131 PS) and maximum torque of 253Nm at 4,500 rpm.
The e:HEV set-up includes three interchangeable drive modes, automatically selected for the prevailing driving requirements. For ultimate efficiency, the HR-V pulls off in electric mode, seamlessly changing to hybrid mode when the engine is under high-torque demand, with the petrol engine used when driving at higher, more constant speeds. The driving dynamics are enhanced through the various performance modes – Sport, Normal and Econ, while the additional drive mode B can be selected through the gear shifter for stronger regenerative braking and a more EV-like experience. The level of energy regeneration and the strength of the deceleration effect can be adjusted to suit the driver’s preference by using Deceleration Selector behind the steering wheel, to provide a variety of driving experiences.
Fully-electric New Fiat 500 comes with power-saving mode so owners won’t need to worry about running out of juice
The all-electric New 500 ensures drivers can put fears of range anxiety to the back of their minds thanks to new technology which conserves the vehicle’s battery power, reducing its overall consumption.
In a style similar to the low battery settings familiar to mobile phone users, the New 500 can automatically select its innovative, power-saving mode after detecting a low remaining driving range (approximately 30 miles).
Ensuring smoother, more gradual acceleration and limiting top speed to 50mph, this mode guides drivers to their destination by correcting behaviours which can lead to excessive energy consumption. The mode also encourages one-pedal driving, which contributes to a better use of the regenerative braking system on the New 500 – on an average urban drive, this feature can regenerate up to 30 per cent more energy than conventional braking.
The software further optimises the remaining battery capacity by deactivating the climate control system, including the heated seats, windscreen and mirrors.
The New 500 has two additional driving modes: Normal and Range. All three can be accessed via the selector on the centre console and are designed to assist and enhance the driving experience.
Normal mode is as close as possible to the experience of driving a petrol or diesel vehicle, in this mode the driver will enjoy the full responsive acceleration of the New 500. Range mode, meanwhile, offers a one-pedal driving experience combined with smoother acceleration, without limiting the top speed. In this mode, regenerative braking can be used to bring the New 500 to a complete stop, helping to manage energy efficiency.
While the power saving mode automatically activates when the car’s battery levels are low, it can be utilised at any time to help conserve the battery and extend a journey. Drivers also have the option to override the technology and select an alternative driving mode, or they can firmly press on the accelerator to override the 50mph limit and automatically return to Normal mode.
When drivers reach their nearest charging destination, the New 500 requires only five minutes of charging to achieve a range of up to 30 miles, proving more than sufficient for the average commute in the UK. Those requiring more range can charge the battery to 80 per cent capacity in just 35 minutes**.
Hyundai’s all-electric IONIQ 5 to make UK public debut at The Bullring, Birmingham
Visitors to The Bullring in central Birmingham from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 April will be among the first in the country to see Hyundai’s innovative new all-electric IONIQ 5.
The car is set to be one of the most advanced all-electric vehicles available when it goes on sale this summer, capable of ultra-fast charging and boasting a range of luxury features including an advanced head-up display, relaxation seats, a sliding centre console and a next-generation infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens.
Those wishing to be amongst the first to experience the new all-electric IONIQ 5 can simply visit Rotunda Square, located in front of the famous bull sculpture. The pop-up will be open on Friday between 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Saturday 09:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM. No registration is required. Early adopters who have pre-registered for the high-spec launch model, Project 45, will have priority viewing windows each day from 11:00-12:30PM.
Hyundai product ambassadors will be on hand to answer questions and guide visitors on the car’s ground-breaking design and advanced features. The model on show will be an IONIQ 5 Ultimate in Gravity Gold.
Also on display will be another of Hyundai’s electric vehicles, the award-winning KONA Electric, which features an updated design delivering 300 miles from a single charge. The KONA range will soon be expanded with the addition of the high-performance KONA N, which is set for a global unveiling online on 27 April.
Corsa, Astra and Grandland X Griffin Editions added to Vauxhall range
Vauxhall has added new Griffin Edition models to its Corsa, Astra and Grandland X vehicle range. The new Corsa Griffin Edition, Astra Griffin Edition and Grandland X Griffin Edition are available to order now, with prices starting from £18,530 OTR for the Corsa Griffin Edition, £19,245 OTR for the Astra Griffin Edition and £25,765 OTR for the Grandland X Griffin Edition.
Last year, Vauxhall launched a new Griffin logo, now featuring a simple and elegant 2-D design of its iconic Griffin. The new badges can be found across all new Vauxhall models, with the Corsa Griffin Edition, Astra Griffin Edition and the Grandland X Griffin edition proudly wearing the new logo both front and rear.
New performance brand GTX joins the VW ID. family
With the new ID.4 GTX, Volkswagen is showing the first sporty top-of-the-range electric model on April 28th: In Europe, the respective performance models of the ID. Family will wear the logo GTX in the future. Similar to GTI and GTE, it stands for its own product brand – it charges the world of electric mobility from Volkswagen with new, intelligent sportiness.
“The letters GT have long stood for driving pleasure,” says Klaus Zellmer, Board Member for Marketing and Sales at the Volkswagen brand. “Now the X is building the bridge to the mobility of the future. Sustainability and sportiness are not mutually exclusive, but complement each other intelligently. “
The GTX models are particularly impressive when it comes to performance and design. An additional electric motor on the front axle brings the all-wheel drive into the ID. family designed for maximum efficiency. The additional motor switches on intelligently within a few milliseconds when very high performance or strong traction are required. In the new “Traction” driving mode, it is even permanently activated.
In addition, sporty design details and their own light signature underline the top performance of the GTX models.
The new product brand for the ID. Family gives the ACCELERATE corporate strategy a further boost. Volkswagen wants to become the most desired brand for sustainable mobility. The goal is to increase the share of pure electric cars in Europe to 70 percent of sales by 2030. Volkswagen wants to become climate neutral by 2050; around 16 billion euros will be invested in e-mobility, hybridization and digitization by 2025.
1 ID.4 GTX – power consumption in kWh/100 km (NEDC): 19.8–18.1 (combined); CO2 emissions in g/km: 0 (combined); efficiency class: A+.
The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand is present in more than 150 markets worldwide and produces vehicles at more than 30 locations in 13 countries. Volkswagen delivered around 5.3 million vehicles in 2020. These include bestsellers such as the Golf, Tiguan, Jetta or Passat as well as the fully electric successful models ID.3 and ID.4. Around 184,000 people currently work at Volkswagen worldwide. In addition, there are more than 10,000 trading companies and service partners with 86,000 employees. With its ACCELERATE strategy, Volkswagen is consistently advancing its further development into a software-oriented mobility provider.
Rayvolt UK: the ultimate in bespoke e-Bikes
From your choice of the perfect colour to a crocodile skin seat*, Rayvolt UK is now catering for discerning owners looking to customise their electric rides with its exclusive e-Bike bespoking service.
Highly stylised and instantly recognisable, the Rayvolt range is already an infinitely more sophisticated way of enjoying an e-Bike, but the growing trend for personalisation is allowing buyers’ imaginations to run wild and commission truly memorable machines.
Available across the entire range of Rayvolt UK bikes, from the laid-back Cruzer to the more aggressive Torino, no detail is too small or option too mundane when it comes to ensuring your electric ride really stands out.
“More than a third of our Cruzer models are delivered with some form of personalisation, but increasingly customers want a functional form of art,” explains Rayvolt UK’s Managing Director, Graham Kresfelder. “We make e-Bikes that are usable every day, but also reflect an owner’s personality. We regularly match frame colour to a favourite car and incorporate customer-specific options.”
With up to 50 miles of range and a top speed of 30mph**, Rayvolt’s models are already a beautiful alternative to the raft of staid and drab e-Bikes available, but you can attain a new level of style with the option Rayvolt UK’s bespoke services.
Frame options include an unlimited pallet of colours, as well as metallic and pearlescent, along with contrasting wheel guards. These can be augmented with a broad range of accessories incorporated into the bespoke service. This includes leather tool rolls, saddle and frame bags and battery bags, in a range of natural, man-made and weather-proof materials, which can be ordered with contrast stitching. All Rayvolt UK bikes come with retro-style powerful front and rear LED lights fitted.
More than skin deep, the customisation even extends to the bike’s electronics, with a choice of powerful hub motors and battery packs for enhanced performance and range. All bikes feature fast charging with a full charge achievable at home in just 4-6 hours.
The personalised approach extends to the advanced technology that underpins Rayvolt UK’s e-Bikes. Each bike’s performance characteristics can be configured via the free smartphone app and saved (not available on the Clubman or Beachin models). Controlling acceleration, regenerative braking and top speed, the app is easy to use, compatible with both Apple and Android smartphones and part of the advanced technology that’s built into Rayvolt UK’s bikes.
The lightweight, high-quality batteries provide up to 50 miles using electric power alone, more with pedal input from the rider, and up to 1000** watts of power is available from a compact brushless 48V DC motor. The advanced intelligent regenerative braking optimises the battery’s range, and the intuitive thumb-controlled throttle** includes a motor cut-out when the brakes are activated, to ensure the bike remains easy to ride at all times.
