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 new Abarth F595.
Abarth is launching its new special series, the F595, derived from the racetracks of Europe. With 165hp, its 1.4-litre engine forms the basis for the propulsion unit in the Tatuus single-seaters used in the Italian and German Formula 4 championships. The F595 celebrates this long-running partnership and acts as a tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Formula Italia single seater by Carlo Abarth.
The new F595 is a concentration of racing design cues, and was created to provide both maximum performance and fun but without sacrificing infotainment technologies.
Outstanding performance and response are the main features of the 165hp 1.4-litre Euro 6D-Final-compliant T-jet engine, fitted with the supercharged Garrett turbo with a geometric compression ratio of 9:1, delivering 230 Nm of torque from just 2,250 rpm. Top speed is achieved at 135mph, whilst 50 to 70mph pick up is achieved in 7.8 seconds (in fifth gear).
The engine is paired with manual transmission, but can be fitted with the optional 5-speed automated manual transmission with steering wheel shift paddles. The 0 to 62 mph sprint takes 7.3 seconds with the manual transmission and 7.4 seconds with the sequential automatic variant.
The bold Abarth F595 offers a Record Monza Sovrapposto active exhaust, now evolved into a new configuration with four pipes – two on each side and stacked vertically. Drivers can control the active exhaust valve by a simple press of the Scorpion button on the dash – this increases the sound of the F595 as required.
Available in hatchback and convertible versions, the new Abarth F595 features Rally Blue design cues as highlighted in the rearview mirror caps and the front and rear bumpers. The sporty look is further enhanced by the Sport 17-inch Formula alloy wheels, the F595 identification badge on the rear and fog lamps.
To the interior, a leather steering wheel and leather Abarth sports seats complement black design cues such as the new infotainment display frame and the new matt black dashboard. The new Rally Blue design cues will be available in combination with the following colours: Race White, Campovolo Grey, Track Grey, Scorpion Black, Record Grey and Tarmac Grey.
Abarth F595 is available to order now, starting from £20,305 OTR
Kia Ceed range gets extensive design, tech and powertrain upgrades
Kia’s best-selling Ceed range has received a range of bold and contemporary enhancements for 2021, including dynamic and athletic design accents. The Ceed five-door hatchback, Ceed Sportswagon estate and ProCeed shooting brake versions will each reveal an entirely redesigned front-end, sporty updates to the rear, restyled alloys and refreshed body colours and interior when the new models go on sale at the beginning of Q4.
From the outside, the rejuvenated exterior speaks of vitality, creating a contemporary and dynamic stance. A completely redesigned front end features Kia’s new logo, a simplified graphic of the company name that reflects the ethos ‘movement that inspires’. Special attention has been given to make each variant (including GT Line and GT versions) more unique and distinct from each other.
The iconic tiger-nose grille, which makes the Ceed a recognisable Kia, is upgraded to a black gloss finish with satin chrome upper and lower wing-shaped garnish for a sleek and modern appearance. To the sides, two large side air intakes shoot through the front bumper creating the sportier look. The ‘wing’ inspired theme repeats in other elements of the front redesign, such as the satin chrome trim on the lower air intake grille and the sweeping side garnish which extends into the front wheel arch. On the rear, to highlight the simplicity of the new Kia badge, the surface between the LED combi lamps has been smoothed out to accommodate the sleek new brand emblem. A new glossy black diffuser is added to the sporty rear bumper, which also echoes the satin chrome finish seen at the front of the car.
New headlamp designs have been introduced on all Ceed models, with full LED headlamps on ProCeed ‘GT-Line S’ and ‘GT’ versions featuring daytime running lights for added road presence and safety. Three arrow-shaped modules surround an integrated LED fog light and high/low beam modules. These daytime running lights (DRLs) also act as the Ceed’s turn signals. GT-Line variants of the five-door hatch gain newly designed LED combination lamps comprised of 48 honeycomb-shaped modules surrounded by a red frame. The multi-functional lamps are positioned into five rows, covered with tinted glass. The LEDs on certain rows light up sequentially when the driver uses the turn signals.
The side view reveals eye-catching new alloy designs across all variants in the line-up. Six striking styles are now available, three of which have been launched for the first time with this latest update: 16-inch alloys finished in silver; glossy black 17-inch alloy rims available exclusively on the GT-Line; and super sporty 18-inch alloys with red accents for GT variants.
The ProCeed GT will turn heads thanks to bespoke design upgrades, including vibrant red accents at the front, side and rear to highlight the car’s sporting prowess. The signature tiger-nose grille on this range-topping model is formed from two-shot injection moulding to create a distinctive glossy black and red finish with dark chrome upper and lower trim. To the front, the GT’s bumper displays a glossy black air intake grille with a specially developed ‘GT red’ trim at each end of the air intake grille. The sporty rear diffuser is accented by round dual exhaust tips and the distinctive new red trim. The GT now sits proudly on 18-inch dark metal alloys in a dedicated GT design with unique red wheel caps.
Onboard the updated Ceed, the driver is instantly welcomed by chic interior décor, sophisticated soothing colours, tactile materials, and a layout designed to put all occupants at ease. The panoramic sunroof provides a connection to nature and creates a greater sense of space for occupants to feel inspired.
Seating is available in nine upholstery finishes, four of which are new with this upgrade. Choices include the black suede leather bucket seats with contrasting edge stitching in grey on GT Line and signature red on GT models. GT Line and GT models benefit from a newly designed gear knob for a modern look. DCT versions get an added touch of luxury with a perforated leather gear knob for an improved tactile experience. All DCT versions come with a glossy black PRND display panel.
The Ceed interior now blends a modern style in look and feel with premium functionality and new technology. For ProCeed GT-Line S models, a large 12.3-inch instrument cluster screen is paired with a 10.25-inch screen to further enhance driver interaction with the vehicle. Every aspect of the interior overhaul has been designed with usability in mind, such as the electronic parking brake switch and other features based around the ‘easy to use, easy to see’ principle which underlines the cabin design.
The new Ceed range offers buyers a fully comprehensive choice of powertrain configurations, including mild-hybrid diesel engines (MHEV), with horsepower ranging from 99bhp to 201bhp. Ceed customers are also presented with a choice of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, the 1.0- and 1.5-litre petrol and the 1.6-litre diesel powertrains all benefitting from Kia’s Smartstream technology.
New SEAT Ibiza priced
SEAT has announced the pricing and technical specifications for the newly-updated Ibiza, which is now available to buy in the UK.
The entry price point starts at £16,945 OTR for the SE 1.0 TSI 95PS, reaching £21,725 OTR for the 1.0 TSI DSG-auto 110PS.
Customers can choose from six distinct and highly-specified trims: SE, SE Technology, FR, FR Sport, XCELLENCE and XCELLENCE Lux.
For the new model, the power outputs are carefully matched with the desired trim level. The Ibiza 1.0 TSI 95PS is available across all trim levels, whilst the 1.0 TSI 110PS, and 1.0 TSI DSG-auto 110PS are for FR trims and above.
The facelift sees the introduction of a number of new-look features.
To draw attention to the SEAT Ibiza’s sleek exterior, there are three new alloy wheel designs available (two 17-inch and one 18-inch), as well as LED exterior lighting as standard, a stylish, two-tone chrome SEAT logo with the Ibiza model name in embossed, handwritten lettering, and two new body colour finishes: Sapphire Blue and Asphalt Blue.
Reflecting the exterior enhancements, the interiors have also been updated, now featuring SEAT’s renowned Beats audio system as an option, and a 9.2” navigation screen available on SE Technology trim and above (SE trim comprises an 8.25” Touchscreen display).
Additionally, the Ibiza houses a high resolution digital cockpit in both FR Sport and XCELLENCE Lux trim.
To further create atmosphere within the cabin, the newly designed air vents have surround LED lighting, available in a range of colours depending on the trim selected – Daring Red for FR/FR Sport and Burgundy for XCELLENCE/XCELLENCE Lux.
As is always a priority with new SEAT vehicles, connectivity takes pride of place. To that end, the Ibiza features the SEAT Connect system and integrated wireless Full Link smart phone functionality, ensuring that the driver never feels digitally disconnected.
Above and Beyond: Land Rover supports Virgin Galactic’s first fully crewed space flight
Land Rover was part of the mission as Virgin Galactic completed its first ever fully crewed space flight, with founder Sir Richard Branson on board as one of four Mission Specialists.
The SpaceShipTwo Unity craft travelled with four Mission Specialists and two pilots on board. The six-strong crew started and completed their mission at Spaceport America in New Mexico. Sir Richard arrived for the ‘Unity 22’ mission in a Range Rover Astronaut Edition and after a safe landing his spacecraft was towed back to waiting well-wishers by a Land Rover Defender 110.
The company’s fourth crewed spaceflight was the first to carry a full crew. Those in the cabin experienced out-of-seat weightlessness and incredible views of Earth from space.
Audiences around the world watched a livestream of the space flight, seeing first-hand the extraordinary experience Virgin Galactic is creating for future astronauts.
“This is an incredible technical and human achievement for the Virgin Galactic team as they took personal adventure to thrilling new heights,” said Joe Eberhardt, President & CEO, Jaguar Land Rover North America. “Land Rover is proud to have supported this exciting mission and we look forward to supporting all the flights into the future.”
Virgin Galactic is the world’s first commercial ‘spaceline’. It has already signed up around 600 Future Astronaut customers, who will be transported to their flights in vehicles supplied by partner Land Rover.
Land Rovers are part of daily life for the Virgin Galactic team, with roles which include towing the space vehicles, carrying equipment and clearing runways before take-off for the first private company to fly humans into space in a craft designed for commercial service.
Nissan hits all the right notes with the new LEAF MY21 featuring the ‘Canto’ sound
Nissan announces the start of sales for the 100% electric LEAF model year 2021. The recharged LEAF boasts enhanced safety features for a more confident electric driving experience for both drivers and pedestrians around the car.
LEAF MY21 will come equipped with a new Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) named ’Canto’ by Nissan. Fully compliant with the new European regulations, the AVAS has been specifically designed to transmit artificially simulated driving sounds, alerting road users of the presence of a 100% electric vehicle.
As pioneers in electrification Nissan incorporated a form of alerting sound from the first-generation Nissan LEAF to ensure all road users are aware of an approaching electric car.
In 2017, during his appointment within the Nissan Global team in Japan, Marco Fioravanti, Regional Vice President, Product Planning AMIEO, had the unique opportunity to drive forward the creation of what would become the signature brand sound for all Nissan Electric Vehicles. Embarking on the process to develop ‘Canto’, Marco and his team ensured customer satisfaction and safety were central to the composition of this unique feature.
“Customer safety is paramount, not only for those behind the wheel, but those surrounding the car as well,” said Marco. “As the world becomes more and more electrified, this sound will soon become part of the soundscape of our roads as Nissan’s signature EV sound moving us closer to our goal of a zero-fatality driving experience.”
In addition, LEAF MY21 offers the perfect blend of smart driving, connectivity and sustainable mobility equipped with In-Car Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Intelligent Blind Spot Intervention (IBSI) as standard for an engaging drive and reassuring experience behind the wheel. Intelligent Rear View Mirror (IRVM) is also available as an option on N-Connecta and Tekna grades.
100% electric motors are considered zero-emission not only in terms of CO2, but also noise pollution by being quieter than combustion engines. To maximise awareness for all users of the road, Nissan partnered with an elite team of sound designers to create ‘Canto’ sound, the company’s bespoke sonic identity for electric vehicles.
‘Canto’ has been carefully created by sound designers and engineers at Nissan Japan; locally adapted for Europe at Nissan Technical Centre Europe using a spectrum of sonic palettes. The sound has been purposely composed to ensure it varies in tone and pitch depending on whether the vehicle is accelerating, decelerating, or reversing.
Automatically activated when travelling at speeds up to 18mph, ‘Canto’ carefully complements its surroundings and is clearly audible, without being too alarming to pedestrians, residents and passengers.
NIU launches all-new electric KQi3 kick scooter with massive launch discount price of just £339
Global electric mobility innovator NIU is delighted to launch the brand-new KQi3 electric kick scooter in the UK as the company’s first product in the booming micromobility sector.
Launching on July 13, 2021 in the UK market, the KQi3 will be available from Indiegogo for an extremely accessible price of £339 at the Early Bird offer (MSRP from £599).
The NIU KQi3 has been designed to offer a comfortable, smart, and powerful alternative for urban transport with an 18.6mile range combined with a top-speed of 15.5mph. A full charge takes just five hours to complete and for maximum convenience and easy storage, the KQi3 is foldable.
NIU spent a long time evaluating and understanding the commuter market as it began the design of the KQi3, and NIU is confident the new model addresses issues, where others fall short, in relation to riding stability and comfort.
NIU believes the new KQi3 is the ultimate commuter scooter.
As with all NIU products, safety is the first concern and there are many key design attributes of the KQi3 that make it a highly reliable and outstanding product.
Extra wide handlebars which are 54cm wide and offer greater control and comfort for the rider thanks to a natural hand placement
A wider deck which is 17cm across and enables greater rider comfort, particularly when cornering
5” x 2.5” wide pneumatic tyres
Powerful performance with a battery located under the deck for a lower centre of gravity, giving a range of 18.6miles, a top-speed of 15.5mph thanks to a super-powerful 48v lithium battery and 350W motor with rear wheel drive
Regenerative braking with dual drive disc brakes returns power to the battery and can add up to 4% more battery charge by harvesting braking energy into battery power
The ultra-visible ‘halo’ front light is bright and enables the rider to see and the KQi3 to be seen by others, in combination with the rear brake light works to aid safety for the rider
Simply British Classics returns to Beaulieu
Beaulieu is delighted to announce the return of Simply British Classics on Sunday 26th September, with all British classic car owners invited to join the rally in the grounds of the National Motor Museum as part of a superb day out.
Open to any pre-1990 classic vehicle built in Britain, or by a British manufacturer, Simply British Classics got off to a great start in 2020, when a diverse range of classics joined the busy display. This year promises to be just as exciting, with the chance for enthusiasts and families alike to admire an impressive selection of cars on show.
Last year’s event saw an astonishing variety of cars drive in to the Beaulieu parkland. From such rarities as an Allard J2, AC 2-Litre, Buckler special and pre-war Bentley, to much-loved favourites such as Jaguar E-types, Triumph Heralds and Stags, MGBs and Midgets, Minis and Morris Minors, there was something for everyone to enjoy. An Alvis TD21, Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire and Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow rubbed shoulders with a Mini Moke, Standard Vanguard, Bond Bug, Austin Metropolitan, Hillman Minx and many more. This year’s display promises to be equally impressive.
Event-goers can vote for their favourite British classic car of the show in the People’s Choice Award, with the winner receiving a Beaulieu trophy and an Autoglym prize. Voting is open to all visitors until 1pm that day, with the presentation taking place at 2pm.
