Auto Exhibition

20 years ago

20 years ago

Add a motorsport flavour...

Add a motorsport flavour to your coffee break with this unusual race tyre table. The Goodyear rear slick has a 6mm toughened glass tabletop - so it can be used for a leisurely lunch while you relax and watch the grand prix on the TV. But you"ll have to be quick to grab an authentic piece of F1 history, as stock is limited. Price: ÷£265 Contact: 0870 027 3434

A huge í‚á£85million...

A huge í‚á£85million was paid out in compensation for damage caused by bad road surfaces last year - a 50 per cent increase over the previous 12 months. This took nearly all the extra money the Government had given local authorities for highway repairs.

A limited-edition version...

A limited-edition version of Ford"s funky Streetka, badged Red, has been launched. Only 500 will be available, all with distinctive scarlet leather seats and interior trim. Three exterior colours are offered: silver, black or gunmetal grey. The í‚á£13,995 price tag includes í‚á£200 worth of extras, such as a Quickclear front windscreen, windbreak and branded carpet mats.

All aboard the Magic...

All aboard the Magic Bus! Rock band The Who has teamed up with VW to create a real-life version of the bus from its 1968 hit ò€“ and you can get your hands on one.

All models are well...

All models are well specced, with seven airbags, ESP with traction control, Hill Start Assist, a speed limiter, cruise control and automatic electric parking brake standard across the range. Recommended retail prices start at under ?15,000 and Citroen"s currently running a 0% finance scheme.

Among some of the more...

Among some of the more bizarre items found by roadside cleaners have been watering cans, ice skates and even a pantomime horse"s head! An estimated 1.3 million pieces of litter are thrown from cars every weekend, researchers claim.

And they"re off! The...

And they"re off! The Nissan Micra C+C has started to roll off the production line at the Japanese company"s plant in Sunderland, with 20,000 expected to be built annually. It"s the first cabriolet to be made by Nissan in Europe and represents a í‚á£95million investment in the factory. A spokesman said: "The C+C is a very important car for us, as it will boost the brand across Europe." The Karmann roof is being assembled on site.

A new 173bhp 2.0-litre...

A new 173bhp 2.0-litre dCi engine is now available for the Renault Laguna. It costs ?750 more than the equivalent 148bhp 2.0-litre dCi unit, but will propel the French family car from 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds and

A problem with the front...

A problem with the front axle has sparked a recall of the Smart ForTwo. Rusting of a supporting joint could lead to a loss of steering. Vehicles which were built between October 1998 and December 2000 are affected. That includes around 2,500 in the UK, but they"re all left-hand-drive models imported before the car - known as the City Coup탩/Cabrio at the time - was launched here officially.

As a result, it’s...

As a result, it’s the fastest-growing sector in the motor industry. Honda benefited most, with 604 registrations of its Civic IMA in May alone, making up more than half of the sales of the model for the year to date.

A staggering 16.9 million...

A staggering 16.9 million motorists want to improve their parking skills, according to a survey by online car retailer www.jamjar.com. The research also revealed that 71 per cent of motorists leave their car at home if they think parking will be a nightmare. However, drivers in Mansfield, Notts, won"t have to worry about that - due to an admin error, the town will have no parking attendants until 2006!

At a recent BCA sale...

At a recent BCA sale, a 2003 dual-fuel Vauxhall Vectra 1.8 LS (image) with 85,000 miles on the clock fetched ÷£4,000 - which is the guide price for a conventional car. The current duty on liquefied petroleum gas is a mere 4.5 pence per litre, compared with 47.1 pence per litre on petrol and diesel - a differential that the Government has pledged can be reduced by only 1p per year between now and 2009.

Auction giants Manheim...

Auction giants Manheim and British Car Auctions are at odds over the prices of used motors. While BCA claimed a 10 per cent upturn in the value of nearly new models last year, rival Manheim reported a 4.3 per cent drop. Meanwhile, industry experts Glass"s Guide noted a near five per cent fall in the value of one-year-old vehicles in 2005. But the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders was upbeat about used sales towards the end of last year.

Available on all models...

Available on all models from the tiny Matiz to the voluminous Tacuma mini-mpv, the extended test drive includes fully comprehensive insurance.

Basic stopping areas...

Basic stopping areas with a toilet block and picnic tables are common on France"s autoroutes. Now, transport officials here believe they could help reduce the number of fatigue-related accidents on British M-ways by encouraging tired drivers to pull over rather than press on to the next services.

BMW has confirmed that...

BMW has confirmed that the new 4.0-litre V8 in its M3 will develop 414bhp ò€“ exactly the same power output as Audiò€™s RS4.

Bosses have made a U-turn...

Bosses have made a U-turn over plans to fit controversial CCTV cameras to fire engines.

Boy racers have had...

Boy racers have had their day - in Ireland at least! A new move by the Government there means that from next month, modified cars will be refused roadworthiness certificates - making it illegal for them to be driven on public roads. Transport minister Ivor Callely said: "We"re putting provisions in place to eliminate tinted glass, double exhausts and so on." The move is part of a wider crackdown on road safety.

Britain"s top-selling...

Britain"s top-selling car magazine is going live at the Geneva Motor Show! For the first time, we"re covering the expo with video reports from the stands.

British motorists are...

British motorists are facing an extra í‚á£8million in fines this month. That"s what is expected to be raised following the DVLA"s introduction of new car tax rules. Drivers who don"t keep their road fund licence up to date are automatically fined í‚á£80 - and 97,000 penalty notices are expected to be issued by the end of the month. The measures should crack down on tax dodgers, help keep records more accurate and get unsafe vehicles off the road.

Buying cherished number...

Buying cherished number plates will be safer and easier under new laws being considered. Currently, the vendor holds the rights to the registration for up to 12 months after sale. Criminals can exploit this by actually selling the number to another party in the meantime. However, under the new proposals, the rights would be transferred the moment cash changes hands.

By claiming the Rally...

By claiming the Rally of France, the Citroen driver has closed the gap on the Ford of series leader Marcus Gronholm to only four points, with three rounds remaining in Japan, Ireland and finally in the fearsome forests of south Wales. “It was important for me to win and everything is still possible. It won’t be easy, but if I can take all those rallies then I will be world champion,” said Loeb (above), who is gunning for a fourth consecutive WRC crown.

By signing up to WhizzGo...

By signing up to WhizzGo, members get the use of a Citroen C3 for less than í‚á£4 an hour. The club has recently launched in Leeds.

Campaigners against...

Campaigners against proposed daytime running lights for UK cars claim the move would create an extra 0.25kg of carbon dioxide emissions from each car every hour.

Canada: Nervous Nina...

Canada: Nervous Nina Chandler made a hash of her driving test. Pulling into the Calgary test centre, she drove through a wall and ran over the examiner.

Carrier bags full of...

Carrier bags full of motor show brochures could soon be a thing of the past, thanks to technology borrowed from supermarket checkouts!

Cars that can gossip...

Cars that can gossip to each other are being tested, so they can spread the word about hazards and make roads safer. DaimlerChrysler is working with US scientists to capture data from a vehicle"s electronic sensors. That"s transmitted to a roadside box, which then broadcasts it to other motors in the area. So if one car"s traction control detects a slippery corner, the information is relayed to other drivers as they approach the same bend.

Chevrolet is hoping...

Chevrolet is hoping to go the extra mile - or 20! The firm has introduced its first-ever diesel in the Lacetti. It returns 58.8mpg on the combined cycle, 20mpg more than petrol versions.

÷ To honour its Dieselmax...

÷ To honour its Dieselmax land speed record car, the Royal Automobile Club has awarded the team behindit the Dewar Trophy.

Dec 2005 21 Auto Express...

Dec 2005 21 Auto Express Christmas Special on sale, 29 Auto Express New Year Special on sale.

Developed by Renault...

Developed by Renault to conquer Eastern European, Asian and African markets, the vehicle is based on the Logan saloon and estate, and is the third bodystyle to be launched off the platform. Under the bonnet is a choice of 1.5-litre diesel and 1.4 or 1.6-litre petrol engines - all supplied by the French parent company. The little load-lugger will carry 800kg, and should cost around ÷£6,500.

Digger giant JCB revved...

Digger giant JCB revved up for next month’s attack on the diesel land speed record when Andy Green put the challenger through its paces at RAF Wittering, Cambs, at the weekend.

Dr Jan Loewenau and...

Dr Jan Loewenau and his team have been working with sat-nav mapping company NAVTEQ to perfect the software, called Dynamic Pass Predictor, which uses the sat-nav"s map to inform motorists when the road will be safer to overtake.

Electric car maker Tesla...

Electric car maker Tesla has sparked anger by asking buyers of the Roadster to pay for kit that previously came as standard.

Emergency telephones...

Emergency telephones along a main trunk road could be removed due to high costs and a lack of use, a council has warned.

Experts believe the...

Experts believe the move by Kenwood sounds the death knell for digital stereo technology, unless reliability improves quickly. Users have reported interference and lost signals, problems which deter potential buyers. Kenwood"s Mike Edwards said the brand has no plans to reintroduce digital products. Fellow in-car entertainment specialists Clarion and Blaupunkt admit in-car DAB has been "slow to catch on".

Farmers everywhere can...

Farmers everywhere can rejoice this festive season - Mitsubishi is relaunching the limited-edition Shogun Field (image). Aimed at rural buyers, the big 4x4 features restrained exterior styling and a vast interior.

Fed up of trawling the...

Fed up of trawling the net to find your next new or used car? Now you don’t have to, because autoexpress.co.uk has all the news, advice and cars for sale you need.

Finished in a dashing...

Finished in a dashing silver, the rim comes in a seven-spoke design, with a red inner lip. It’s stamped with the brand name, while the famous Wolf logo takes pride of place in the centre. Made to fit four-stud applications, the new wheel is available in a choice of 6.5x15 or 7x17-inch sizes.

Following satellite-navigation...

Following satellite-navigation firm TomTom"s success at using funnyman John Cleese"s voice for spoken directions, other celebrities have signed up to put their tones to the portable units. Actors Mr T, Burt Reynolds and Dennis Hopper are in the pipeline to tell GPS users to "Take the next left", "Leave at the third exit" or "Make a U-turn". Hopper, star of cult biker movie Easy Rider, is likely to be used on motorbike sat-nav equipment.

Former grand prix star...

Former grand prix star Jos Verstappen is to return to the A1 GP series, where countries compete against each other in identical cars. The former Benetton driver is looking forward to a visit to his home track, Zandvoort in Holland, on 1 October: “I hope I can reward the enthusiasm of the crowds with good results.” Meanwhile, an A1GP car will be in action in Manchester this weekend as part of a festival organised by Sky television.

Front suspension problems...

Front suspension problems have forced Toyota to recall 1,880 Land Cruiser Colorados in the UK. Cars affected were made from May 2001 to August 2002. Repairs are likely to take about an hour, and owners will have their SUV valeted for free. It"s part of a wider global campaign which is seeing the Japanese manufacturer call back more than 800,000 models from its range.

Garages have suffered...

Garages have suffered system crashes since the annual vehicle check-up was computerised in April 2005.

GERMANY: A busty dummy...

GERMANY: A busty dummy resembling Marilyn Monroe had to be removed from a shop window in Hamm - because it was distracting passing motorists. "It"s simply too much of an eye-catcher," said local cops.

Good news for hay fever...

Good news for hay fever sufferers. Volvo has developed a Clean Zone Interior Package (CZIP) that helps create a healthy cabin environment by filtering out pollutants and pollen.

Grabbing even more attention...

Grabbing even more attention at Bologna is this Doblo Jamaica. Liveried in the Caribbean hotspot"s national flag, the one-off car was built to commemorate Fiat"s sponsorship of the national bobsleigh team. However, it also carries next year"s Doblo revisions. There are side rubbing strips, tinted windows, fresh body colours, improved spec, a revised cabin and a new 1.3-litre 16-valve Multijet diesel.

Grand by name, grand...

Grand by name, grand by nature! This is the Mercedes CLS Grand Edition, shown here with unique palladium silver matt paint. Other upgrades include 18-inch titanium grey AMG alloys and floor mats with one-off badging. Only the 350 CDI V6 engine is offered, but a re-tune has upped power by 47bhp to 268bhp, and cut 0-60mph times by half a second to 6.5 seconds, without altering emissions or fuel economy. Only 560 Grand Editions will be sold from July, costing ?48,445.

Heading the upgrades...

Heading the upgrades is the introduction of four-zone air-conditioning, so each occupant can control the temperature of the surrounding area.

Here’s a plug-in...

Here’s a plug-in hybrid that you can actually build yourself. Developed by US firm Riley Enterprises, the new three-wheeler kit car, badged XR-3, is capable of 225mpg and a top speed of 85mph. It’s powered by a diesel engine at the front, while a lithium-ion cell drives a motor at the rear – you can shift between the two at the flick of a switch. Its price remains a secret, but the first kits should be ready within the next three months.

His report finds factors...

His report finds factors such as running late and looking for thrills are not to blame. More than two-thirds of drivers said they didn"t give full concentration to the road, according to Professor Frank McKenna of Reading University.

Honda is suing Chinese...

Honda is suing Chinese firm ShuangHuan Auto over a lookalike version of its CR-V off-roader. The 4x4 is seen here at the Beijing Motor Show, and the cloning even extends to the name. Amazingly, this car is called the SR-V, and may interest Audi"s lawyers, too - it has half of the German firm"s four-ringed logo on the bonnet! Hironori Kanayama, president of Honda Automobile China, said: "We can"t stand by and see our worldwide quality compromised by copies."

Hydrogen-powered cars...

Hydrogen-powered cars are here! Hondaò€™s zero-emissions FCX Clarity is now being built, with the first example rolling off the line this week.

In October 2003, the...

In October 2003, the 660bhp Ferrari Enzo was the most powerful supercar available - today it"s the 987bhp Bugatti Veyron.

Inside, there"s part-leather...

Inside, there"s part-leather and aluminium-effect trim - but this isn"t just a styling exercise. The models get M Sport suspension, plus recalibrated dampers and stiffer springs. Sport prices range from í‚á£29,550 for the 520i saloon to í‚á£46,525 for the 545i Touring.

Ireland: Cabbie John...

Ireland: Cabbie John Tomlinson picked up a fare at Dublin Airport, only to discover it was a school friend he hadn"t seen for 46 years.

IRELAND: Sean Mackey...

IRELAND: Sean Mackey, 73, has finally passed his driving test - after 530 lessons! He"s spent í‚á£10,800 on tuition over 11 years, and was cheered on by his girlfriend in Dublin.

Is this the end of the...

Is this the end of the blind spot? Nissan is developing a system that gives drivers a bird"s eye view of their car and the surrounding area. The image is shown on a monitor mounted on the dashboard. Rear view cameras are already offered on many of the Japanese firm"s cars, but this new set-up will add side and front-mounted units. The technology is expected to appear first on luxury Infiniti models when they go on sale in Europe in 2008.

ITALY: A mafia car theft...

ITALY: A mafia car theft ring was rumbled by police when it was discovered that criminals had registered 147 luxury vehicles to one person - an 80-year-old Naples man who didn"t have a driving licence.

ITALY: A thief was sentenced...

ITALY: A thief was sentenced to six months in jail a mere 25 minutes after stealing a purse from a car in Naples. A passing magistrate saw him and rushed him straight to a nearby court.

It claims its new version...

It claims its new version (image) will be the fastest production car ever, with a top speed of over 242mph.

It looks like the result...

It looks like the result of a fling between an F1 car and a superbike, but the Sportcycle Solo is no mongrel - and the three-wheeler is road legal.

It’s 30 years...

It’s 30 years since Saab gave us its first turbocharged car, and to celebrate, the firm launched this special edition 9-3 called the Turbo X. Only available in black, it has a 2.8-litre twin-turbo V6 with 280bhp, which is mated to the firm’s new XWD four-wheel-drive system. The 0-62mph sprint takes 5.7 seconds and the 9-3 also comes with a bodykit, larger brakes, 18-inch alloys, leather seats and carbon fibre trim. Sales start next year.

It"s a double whammy...

It"s a double whammy of pricing news from Volkswagen. The Golf Plus mini-MPV, on sale on 1 June, will start at í‚á£12,895 for the 1.4-litre S. Details of the sixth-generation Passat, in showrooms on 24 June, have also been released, with the range starting at í‚á£14,995. Top-spec 2.0-litre TDI versions cost í‚á£19,810, and feature the DSG sequential manual gearbox and alloys as standard.

It"s badged STi, and...

It"s badged STi, and the extensive mechanical makeover includes Driver Controlled Centre Differential, which allows power distribution to be altered between the front and rear wheels. The suspension has also been reworked for better handling, and there"s a sportier limited slip differential at the front wheels.

It"s been developed...

It"s been developed by Cardiff-based Lonsdale Commercial Body Builders. The firm began work on it after being approached by a company which had lost an employee in a fatal accident involving a loose gas bottle in the back of a car. Lonsdale"s operations director Mark Lee in image, with mother Janet) said: "There"s no legislation dealing with people who use estates - as opposed to commercial vehicles - to carry work items."

It seems police in Scotland...

It seems police in Scotland have nothing better to do than hand out free drinks. A new safety initiative has seen Lothian and Borders officers giving motorists cups of coffee and cans of Red Bull energy drink - to raise awareness of the need to take breaks during long journeys. Assistant chief constable Charles Michie defended the scheme, saying: "Fatigue is a factor in many crashes and we hope this initiative will remind drivers of their responsibilities."

It"s not only the Getz...

It"s not only the Getz which has a new look - so does the Santa Fe! These shots reveal the improved soft-roader undisguised, and show the bulbous, bug-eyed styling has been ditched in favour of a sleeker, more sophisticated stance. The fresh model will also boast a revised interior with improved quality. Hyundai remains tightlipped about the new car, which goes on UK sale next year, but expect a revised engine line-up, too.

It"s official... Hummer"s...

It"s official... Hummer"s H3 is on its way to the UK. Production of the mid-sized SUV has started in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and right-hand-drive cars will be ready in mid-2007.

It"s the maximum Micra!...

It"s the maximum Micra! Nissan has fitted a tuned version of the 3.5-litre V6 from the 350Z coup탩 to its supermini. Called the Micra 350SR, the car also features a special bodykit.

It"s the new flagship...

It"s the new flagship of the model range and has a 4.2-litre V8 engine and six-speed semi-automatic gearbox. Inspired by the current Maserati Trofeo racing series vehicles, it will be available in six colours, including the Fuji White seen here. The other models are the MCC and MCS race and road cars, which use the carbon fibre chassis and engine of the Ferrari Enzo. See next week"s Auto Express magazine for full details.

Itò€™s the devilò€™s...

Itò€™s the devilò€™s own work! The Fiat 500 has been given a ò€˜fieryò€™ makeover just in time for the Paris Motor Show.

It wasn"t only veterans...

It wasn"t only veterans of WWII who came together in remembrance of fallen D-Day colleagues - motoring military hardware was on display, too. Our amazing picture shows how more than 120 wartime Jeeps descended on Normandy, France, to mark the 60th anniversary. As with the veterans, the rare 4x4s travelled from all over Europe, including Britain, Holland, Germany and Poland, to attend.

It will be easier for...

It will be easier for drivers to keep their eye on the road when new technology by DaimlerChrysler and Volvo becomes standard.

Karen Ostler, who lives...

Karen Ostler, who lives in Solihull, West Midlands, told us: "The wipers on my car run at different speeds, and sometimes do only a half sweep."

Land Rover has teamed...

Land Rover has teamed up with jeans manufacturer G-Star to produce a limited-edition Raw Defender. Designers at the fashion firm have given the 110 Station Wagon a brown leather roof and added punched holes to the bumper, radiator and front wing vents. Each model has its own unique serial number. Sales start this month in left-hand drive only, with prices from around í‚á£40,000.

March 2006 1 New 06...

March 2006 1 New 06 registration introduced; Toyota RAV4 (image) on sale, 1 - 12 Geneva Motor Show, 5 Ultimate Dubs (VW and Audi Show), Telford International Indoor Centre, Shropshire, 6 Hyundai Santa Fe launched; Mercedes R-Class driven in UK, 7 Cadillac BLS and Audi R8 launched, 9 Suzuki SX4 driven, 13 Peugeot 207 launched, 20 Hyundai Santa Fe on sale; Peugeot 207 driven, 21 Fiat Sedici on sale, 23 Zagreb Motor Show, Croatia, opens, 24 Bangkok Motor Show, Thailand, opens

Mazda’s ultimate...

Mazda’s ultimate sports hatchback, the Mazda3 MPS, goes in sale in the UK next February, priced from ÷£18,995. The car promises scintillating performance from its 260ps 2.3-litre engine. Claimed 0-60 is 6.1 seconds.

Meet the UK"s smallest...

Meet the UK"s smallest cop car! The Qpod is a road-legal quad bike with a roof that"s helping Pembrokeshire Police fight crime in Tenby. Officers are using the two-seater for various tasks, and its tiny dimensions are ideal for narrow roads. Dorset Police are also trialling the Qpod. It is available from Noel Edmonds" Devon-based Unique Motor Company for í‚á£4,000.

Mercedes has announced...

Mercedes has announced prices for its new B-Class. The í‚á£16,995 base B150 kicks off the line-up, and comes with air-con, a CD player and foglamps as standard. SE trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels, colour-coded mirrors plus a chrome exhaust for an extra í‚á£950. Diesel prices start from í‚á£18,995 for the entry-level B180 CDI, and rise to í‚á£21,575 for the B200 CDI SE. The top-of-the-range B200 Turbo offers 193bhp, and costs í‚á£22,795.

More road tax dodgers...

More road tax dodgers than ever have been caught by the DVLA. New figures reveal that last year it managed to claw back í‚á£90million by prosecuting 972,000 motorists for evasion - a rise of 18 per cent. However, the agency admitted there had been a 4.5 per cent increase in the number of drivers not buying a tax disc. The car tax enforcement hotline (08000 325202), which was set up in May last year, received 134,000 calls in its first 12 months.

Nissan is shifting into...

Nissan is shifting into top gear with its 370Z ò€“ and our spies have bagged the first shot of its paddleshift twin-clutch six-speed gearbox. Following on from our story last week, the new transmission is based on that of the GT-R flagship. The car also gets a 330bhp 3.7-litre V6 engine and revised looks with new, shark fin-style lights. The 370Z will be unveiled at next monthò€™s LA Motor Show.

Oneswoop"s New Car Locator...

Oneswoop"s New Car Locator allows users to search by make and model, and add any number of extras until they have compiled exactly the car they want. The Oneswoop price can be up to 25 per cent cheaper than manufacturers" recommended retail prices and the whole selection process can be carried out in the comfort of your own home, within seconds.

Only in Japan! A leading...

Only in Japan! A leading car accessory manufacturer has launched this unusual gadget, the Thanks Tail. You fit it on the roof of your car - as on this Nissan Micra - and at the push of a button it wags from side to side, like a dog"s tail, to show your gratitude. It"s meant to be used when another driver lets you in ahead of them. The firm reckons it will be a big Christmas hit in Japan.

"Ordinary tyre tread...

"Ordinary tyre tread generates a lot of sound," explained Sandberg, who works at Sweden"s national road laboratory. "That noise is projected outwards from the rubber." Instead, this revolutionary wheel/tyre has hundreds of holes to let the noise pass through it. Sandberg is having several prototypes made and plans to fit them to a Volvo for a series of long-term tests.

Prices for two new Nissans...

Prices for two new Nissans have been announced. The eagerly awaited 350Z Roadster will cost í‚á£26,000 for the base model, with the GT coming in at í‚á£28,500. Each is a í‚á£1,500 mark-up on the existing Coup탩. The car is on sale next month, with first deliveries next year. Meanwhile, the Murano SUV - which shares the Roadster"s 3.5-litre V6 engine, as well as its on-sale date - will be priced í‚á£29,800. There are currently no plans for a diesel model.

Produced in partnership...

Produced in partnership with Italian motorbike manufacturer Ducati, the limited-run Panda Monster (image) was first seen at December"s Bologna Motor Show. It"s now being sold through a special microsite (www.pandamonster .fiat.com) - the first time a Fiat has been available for order in this way. Bosses have yet to reveal prices for the left-hand-drive-only model, but it is expected that each Panda Monster will cost around ÷£14,000.

Product development...

Product development chief at GM, Bob Lutz, revealed at the Detroit Motor Show he"s already worked out what drivers will do when their hydrogen-powered car is running low on juice. He told Auto Express: "When they are getting low on hydrogen, motorists will simply hit the "fuel" button on the sat-nav screen and it will give them directions to the nearest filling station. It"s the only sane way of getting the car topped up."

Rather than use the...

Rather than use the same 3.4-litre engine as fitted to the S, the new model is to be powered by the 2.7-litre flat-six motor that"s already used in the Boxster. The unit develops 245bhp compared with the flagship"s 295bhp, and takes the Cayman from 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds. The entry-level coupé is set to arrive in Porsche showrooms on 29 July. Among its unique features are double-spoke alloy wheels and black brake calipers.

Red means go for many...

Red means go for many people, according to a survey into driving habits carried out for the Traffex 2005 traffic management show in Birmingham. A worrying 37 per cent of those questioned said they did not consider jumping a red light to be "extremely dangerous", while 21 per cent of motorists in the south-east admitted to talking on their mobile while driving.

Researchers from the...

Researchers from the University of California say some animations get involved in too much risky behaviour, and producers should include hidden public health messages. SpongeBob SquarePants, a cartoon about a yellow sea sponge, was also criticised. Professor Deborah Glik explained: "Lack of depictions of safety behaviour can prove fatal to unassuming children who may mimic what they see."

Rim maker Redbourne"s...

Rim maker Redbourne"s range of different products is specifically designed for the 4x4s. The company claims that the wheels will all be up to the task of off-roading, and will even work with tyre pressure monitoring systems. Prices start at ÷£163.

Rising petrol prices...

Rising petrol prices are the driving force behind another record month for diesel car sales. Despite a fall in new vehicle registrations in July compared to last year, the number of oil-burners that found new homes increased. Best seller overall for July was the Ford Focus - its 50th month at the top. Meanwhile, the year"s second biggest seller so far - the Vauxhall Corsa - was pushed into third place for the month by the Renault M탩gane.

Robo-Mechanic has video...

Robo-Mechanic has video camera eyes to recognise hand gestures and is being taught to understand spoken instructions. Electric motors power its wheels to a 4.4mph top speed on the flat, but when it detects obstacles, its legs can step neatly over them.

Safety-conscious manufacturer...

Safety-conscious manufacturer Volvo is seeking permission to let drunken motorists use its cars. The firm wants to try out its latest innovation, which measures reaction time, but Sweden"s strict drink- drive laws are getting in the way. Having a tipple before hitting the road is prohibited in the Scandinavian country, even if driving at a proving ground.

Sales plans for the...

Sales plans for the Gibbs Aquada appear to be sinking. Launched in 2003, bosses hoped the rich and famous would snap up the í‚á£150,000 amphibious machine. However, no buyers have been found, despite Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson expressing an interest and Gibbs cutting the price by í‚á£75,000. A spokesman said the firm was now trying to sell the Aquada"s technology, rather than making vehicles.

Scientists have discovered...

Scientists have discovered that worn-out, old tyres can be shredded into tiny crumbs and put into filters - to clean dirty water.

Scrapped Volvos are...

Scrapped Volvos are being sought by green energy fans... because the parts are perfect for wind turbines! Hubs, bearings and disc brakes from old 120 and 240 models generate more power than shop-bought kits, and cost a fraction of the price, so are ideal building materials. "It"s nice to know the longest-lasting components are still useful," said a Volvo spokesman.

Secret new markings...

Secret new markings on police cars will help bring high-speed chases to happy endings. The designs are made of special materials so that they show up brightly at night and in bad weather, but only when viewed through heat-sensitive cameras. They are being tested on the roofs of squad cars to make them more visible to helicopter crews. The markings are derived from stealth aircraft technology, and are being trialled in Cambs and Hants.

Skoda: Price of Fabia...

Skoda: Price of Fabia Sport cut by í‚á£1,000 to í‚á£8,990 from beginning of September. New features include sunset privacy glass and red seatbelts.

Sources say the base...

Sources say the base version of the Porsche 911 rival will be the equivalent of ÷£29,000 in Japan.

Space inside is boosted...

Space inside is boosted even further by the use of drive-by-wire technology and a novel electric drivetrain rather than a conventional, engine-powered set-up. Each wheel hub has a 27bhp motor, and all four combine to produce a respectable 108bhp. Power is supplied by a compact lithium-ion battery pack, stowed beneath the floor.

Sports car drivers have...

Sports car drivers have three points of contact with their vehicle: the steering wheel, pedals and seat. And some of the best hot hatch chairs available are found in Volkswagen"s Golf R32. Now the figure-hugging Recaros can be fitted to the cheaper GTI as an option. But you might need to sit down before you learn the price: ÷£945 if trimmed in cloth or ÷£2,345 for seats upholstered in leather.

Spyker is one of the...

Spyker is one of the world’s oldest car companies. Born in Amsterdam in 1898, by 1907 one of its motors had come second in the Peking-Paris Rally, but the firm went bust in 1925.

Strike a light! VW is...

Strike a light! VW is packing equipment into its Golf Match. The new model comes with alloys, a three-spoke leather steering wheel and connectivity for MP3 players.

Supercar maker Ferrari...

Supercar maker Ferrari is roaring towards its 60th birthday in style - by inviting owners to join it in a giant relay race.

Suzuki has announced...

Suzuki has announced prices for the all-new Grand Vitara. The stylish off-roader boasts permanent four-wheel drive and is available in three or five-door bodystyles. Entry-level 1.6-litre three-doors start at í‚á£12,699, while the 2.0-litre five-door manual is priced from í‚á£15,499. There"s also a four-speed auto available for the bigger engine - the model costs í‚á£16,449.

Take a look at the first...

Take a look at the first official undisguised picture of the new Nissan GT-R. Revealed by the Japanese firm ahead of the new car"s unveil at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month, the image shows some of the supercar"s daring new lines among the shadows.

Team bosses at Toro...

Team bosses at Toro Rosso have confirmed that Sebastien Buemi will be one of its Formula One drivers in 2009. The 20-year-old Swiss star is part of Red Bullò€™s junior driver programme, and raced with backing from the energy drink firm in GP2 last year.

Ten thousand drivers...

Ten thousand drivers of cars likely to be targeted by criminals are to get a í‚á£5 Halfords voucher towards the cost of security equipment. The Gloucestershire Police initiative is intended to combat the current level of theft, which stands at more than three vehicles a day. A police spokesman said: "A lot of these crimes are avoidable if people take the necessary care."

The ?18,995 truck is...

The ?18,995 truck is based on the latest 2008 model-year 2.5 dCi Outlaw double cab. It comes with leather seats, a CD player, special mats, chrome door mirrors and electric

The 1 May initiative...

The 1 May initiative is the brainchild of the West Yorkshire Casualty Reduction Partnership, which is responsible for the fixed and mobile road safety cameras in the area.

The California-based...

The California-based specialist says its new 12-piston caliper sets are the largest it"s ever offered, giving excellent stopping power to SUVs and high-powered supercars.

The coolest movie motorist...

The coolest movie motorist of all-time is James Bond. Sean Connery topped a poll conducted by Churchill Insurance, finishing ahead of second-placed Steve McQueen as Lt. Frank Bullit and Batman, who came third. David Hasselhoff"s Michael Knight and Inspector Morse also made the top 10. Representing female drivers was Penelope Pitstop from the Wacky Races cartoon, who was fifth.

The Daihatsu Copen is...

The Daihatsu Copen is now available with a free leather upgrade - thanks to visitors to the last British Motor Show. At the 2001 event, more than 1,500 people filled in forms to show bosses in Japan how much interest there was in the Copen in the UK. That resulted in the cabrio being available here, and the upgrade is the company"s way of thanking those visitors. Leather seats, door trim and a Momo steering wheel are available until the end of September.

The ex-Williams and...

The ex-Williams and Jaguar F1 driver will race for the team owned by Renault star Giancarlo Fisichella. “This is a chance to remind everyone that I am always competitive,” said the Brazilian. “I want to return to F1 as soon as I can, which is why I have accepted this challenge.”

The final piece of Britain"s...

The final piece of Britain"s last single-track trunk road is to be made into a two-lane highway at a cost of í‚á£16million. The four-mile section of the main route from Fort William to Mallaig in the Scottish Highlands is a narrow, winding highway used by a variety of traffic including tourist buses. It even has passing places where the road gets especially narrow.

The firm asked potential...

The firm asked potential buyers for their suggestions, and the results were... interesting! On the shortlist are Nanuk, Namib (after the Namibian desert), Rockton, Samun and Tiguan (a place in the Philippines). Each sounds exotic, but what do you think? Have you got some ideas of your own? We"ll print all the best responses. Email editorial@autoexpress.co.uk

The firm has introduced...

The firm has introduced a new online facility for its sales, so prospective buyers can watch the progress of auctions and even bid via the Internet.

The firm put the flags...

The firm put the flags of each of the new nations -Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Hungary and Cyprus - on the cars. Another MINI was wearing the EU flag. They were part of an international roadshow which took place at Mini-Europe - a tourist attraction with 300 miniature versions of famous landmarks - in Brussels, Belgium.

The firm"s UK boss has...

The firm"s UK boss has warned he will delay the planned launch of the heavily revised off-roader until every one of the current models is sold.

The first picture of...

The first picture of the estate version shown in this week"s issue reveals the sharper styling front and rear, and the Peugeot 407 rival will also get a revised interior. Equipment levels will be boosted by a new lane departure warning system, plus xenon headlights. Fresh six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes will be offered, while safety kit includes new knee protecting airbags and revised ESP stability control.

The French-built Microjoule...

The French-built Microjoule vehicle took victory in the Shell Eco-Marathon for the second year in a row by returning a penny-pinching 8,264mpg.

The French firm has...

The French firm has unveiled a saloon version of its popular compact family model. The 2.71-metre long model has an extended rear end to create a whopping 513 litres of luggage space.

The front-wheel-drive...

The front-wheel-drive SR is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine mated to a five-speed auto gearbox. No performance figures have been released, but it is likely to rival class-leaders.

The glamour of an American...

The glamour of an American motor show wouldn"t be complete without a new muscle car - and Ford delivered the goods with its Mustang Convertible. Based on the same platform as its coup탩 sibling, the drop-top has a fabric hood and is powered by a 210bhp 4.0-litre V6 or a 300bhp 4.6 V8. The new model goes on sale in the US in the spring, with specialist importers likely to be taking orders in the UK soon.

The green light has...

The green light has been given for Donington Park to prepare for its hosting of the British Grand Prix in 2010. Bosses at the Leicestershire circuit received planning permission from the local council last week, allowing them to start major rebuilding work at the site.

The Honda NSX is to...

The Honda NSX is to be axed after 15 years of production - but the Japanese manufacturer has officially confirmed that a successor is on the way. A spokesman said: "We are committed to having a high-performance model in future." Meanwhile, enthusiasts have a final chance to buy the current NSX, as Honda is bringing 12 limited-edition models finished in unique colours to the UK.

The huge-selling Sony...

The huge-selling Sony PlayStation3 video game, MotorStorm, is back. And the latest Pacific Rift title claims to expand on the originalò€™s panel-bashing, off-road racing action.

The huge Ford Expedition...

The huge Ford Expedition has just got even bigger. The aptly named EL (Extra Length) models are gaining an extra 15 inches. Built for people who can"t make do with simply "massive", the Expedition range-topper has a huge 3,700-litre load space - 1,000 more than a Galaxy. It is powered by the blue oval"s 300bhp 5.4-litre Triton V8, developing 494Nm of torque.

The idea forms part...

The idea forms part of a nationwide tour organised by the Japanese firm, which will visit city centres, including Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Newcastle and Glasgow, until February next year.

The Italian firm has...

The Italian firm has engineered an ÷£895 limited-edition coffee maker with its famous raging bull emblem embossed on the front.

The more expensive your...

The more expensive your car, the less likely you are to be let out by other motorists at a junction. BMW drivers suffer the most, followed by those in Jaguars, Mercedes and Land Rovers, according to a survey by Internet service provider AOL. It also found UK road users don"t only judge people by the vehicle they"re in. If someone is good looking, they are much more likely to be given space to pull out at a busy junction.

The new Fiat supermini...

The new Fiat supermini is due in 2009, and will slot between the existing Panda and Grande Punto in the line-up. It will be available in both three or five-door bodystyles, powered by a choice of familiar Multijet petrol and diesel units.

The new GT-R has been...

The new GT-R has been a long time coming, but Nissan is stopping grey importers bringing it to the UK. The supercar went on sale in Japan in December for ÷£36,000, and isn’t due here officially until March 2009, priced around ÷£55,000.

The new mini-MPV was...

The new mini-MPV was the 500,000th Skoda to be built in 2007 - this one at the marque"s Kvasiny, Czech Republic, plant.

The new model has been...

The new model has been designed to rival the famous Hummer 4x4 (pictured), and meets the regulations set out for Nato military vehicle specifications.

The number of drivers...

The number of drivers prosecuted for having messed with the spacing of numbers and letters on their car"s registration plate has fallen dramatically. During 2000, more than 1,400 motorists were fined up to í‚á£1,000 each for breaking the rules. So far this year, the total is 566. A DVLA spokesman said it was the responsibility of the police to catch offenders.

The picture in this...

The picture in this week"s mag shows exactly how the top-of-the-range A3 will look when it goes on sale later this year.

The second-generation...

The second-generation Super Aguri SA06 has turned a wheel for the first time at Silverstone. Although it’s still based on an ageing Arrows chassis, the new Honda-powered machine (right) features many technical updates, as well as a revised red livery.

The surround-sound specialist"s...

The surround-sound specialist"s new 7.1 system comes via 14 Alpine speakers - comprising three up front, with the rest spaced throughout the vehicle - to give passengers the feeling of being at a concert.

The Touring isn"t expected...

The Touring isn"t expected to arrive here until late 2005, but when it does, it should appeal to keen drivers with an active lifestyle. As with the 5-Series Touring, this load-lugger is likely to feature compact hydro-pneumatic suspension. And, without any struts intruding into the boot space, large square objects can be carried with ease. Meanwhile, the suspension"s self-levelling system should ensure that handling and safety aren"t compromised.

The whole system has...

The whole system has been designed to fit in the back of a small van, and went on display at the Traffex trade show in Birmingham. The battery-operated LED lights are fixed to a telescopic pole on a base the size of a small lawnmower, which can be wheeled around.

They"ve borrowed the...

They"ve borrowed the 1.5-litre engine from the Japanese-market Yaris Turbo.

They want to discover...

They want to discover how millions of tiny hairs on the reptiles" feet help them cling to smooth, almost-vertical surfaces without slipping. And the US boffins are making similar materials to give tyres and road surfaces fantastic grip.

This comes ahead of...

This comes ahead of the release of an all-new Grand Voyager later this year. That car’s impending arrival heralds the end of an era for the firm, as Chrysler will stop selling the five-seat Voyager and only offer the seven-seat Grand. The facelifted car, revealed at the Detroit Motor Show as a Dodge Caravan, will be on display at Frankfurt wearing Chrysler badges. Prices are expected to start from ÷£27,000.

This valuable silver...

This valuable silver cup has been awarded through the years ever since 1906, and is traditionally given to either a company or an individual who has demonstrated outstanding technical motoring achievement.

To be unveiled at the...

To be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the new-look Swede has reshaped rear lights, plus a redesigned bumper and bootlid. This sharper styling complements the more aggressive front end. The updated 9-5 is expected to hit UK showrooms in November, with major price rises unlikely. Only one diesel model will be available - a 150bhp 1.9 TiD - but a Biomass variant could be added once the green fuel is readily available here.

To celebrate the life...

To celebrate the life of the original Mini"s creator, Sir Alec Issigonis, it was fitted with bespoke additions for its time at ExCeL. A large badge featuring the great designer"s silhouette and name was located on the grille, and there was even a small video screen built into the rear side window of the Traveller-style body showing clips of the car"s 1964 Monte Carlo Rally win.

Toyota will reveal its...

Toyota will reveal its next Prius at January’s Detroit Motor Show. The car – set to take cues from the Hybrid X seen at Geneva last year – will be bigger than at present, but promises lower emissions, more power and 13 per cent better economy.

Under the F1-inspired...

Under the F1-inspired bodywork there is now an aluminium 700bhp 3.5-litre V8 engine. With a kerbweight of only 500kg, its performance should be electrifying.

Unveiled in three-door...

Unveiled in three-door form for the first time at the SEMA show last week, the new Accent (pictured) is based on the Kia Rio platform. But with sharper lines, sporty alloys and bulging wheelarches, it"s more distinctive. Under the bonnet, the Accent will come with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, while a 1.4 petrol and a 1.5 diesel should arrive later in 2006. An official European debut is scheduled for January"s Brussels Motor Show.

Update the look of your...

Update the look of your steel wheels with new covers from Ring. It has produced Premium and Value trims, all using plastic which can withstand minor impacts.

US firm Asanti believes...

US firm Asanti believes so - for ÷£1million, it will custom build four rims encrusted with 26,000 diamonds and 1,200 rubies.

Vibrating car components...

Vibrating car components will soon become standard, predicts Japanese parts firm Denso. Shaking steering wheels, pedals, seats, headrests and seatbelts can alert drivers to potential dangers faster than dash lights or warning signs, cutting reaction times by up to a fifth of a second, according to scientists. Auto Express tested a car with a vibrating pedal in Issue 753.

Visitors were given...

Visitors were given a fleeting glimpse... but the surprise star of Mercedes’ show stand is still top secret! A heavily disguised version of the E-Class saloon was driven on to the firm’s stage before disappearing behind a curtain. Official press photos featured the new car covered by a black sheet. Due in 2010, the E-Class will be available as a diesel-electric hybrid, while a similar S-Class and a petrol hybrid M-Class will also be offered.

We"ve already seen the...

We"ve already seen the coup탩-cabrio with its folding metal lid in the up and down positions, but the picture in this week"s mag reveals the hood mechanism in action. Made up of three main parts, including a roof split into two - hence the car"s name - it"s a complex device.

We were surprised to...

We were surprised to see that Nissan had judged the look of the GT-R so secret, it created a virtual camouflage for its debut in the video game, Gran Turismo 5.

What are the chances...

What are the chances of the Chrysler Firepower - as revealed in issue 840 - going into production? The omens don"t look good. Last year"s Detroit showstopper was the ME-412 supercar, which was officially declared dead in the water at this year"s event. And in 2003? That was the V10-powered Tomahawk motorcycle, which was rumoured to have a limited production run. It"s never seen the light of day either.

What"s every car designer"s...

What"s every car designer"s dream? To start their own company. And Aston Martin"s recently departed Henrik Fisker, seen in the image with his AM V8 concept, has done just that. Based in California, Fisker Coachbuild will produce exclusive supercars, with each production run limited to 150. A prototype of the firm"s first model will arrive later this year.

With the new XKR only...

With the new XKR only a year away, test drivers are still putting countless hours of work in at Germany"s Níƒá¼rburgring circuit. While the standard XK looks set to offer a far more involving drive than its predecessor, the high-performance flagship needs to be a real thriller. The prototype shown in this week"s magazine is cornering at great speed as engineers finalise the suspension settings, guaranteeing plenty of grip and a sensational drive.

You don"t need to sail...

You don"t need to sail around the world to find a great deal. Renault has announced a special edition of its Espace called the Globe Ellen MacArthur in honour of the record-breaking Dame. The limited-run MPV has a choice of three engines; a 2.0-litre petrol at í‚á£21,995, a 1.9 dCi for í‚á£22,995 and 2.2 dCi priced í‚á£25,995. Based on the Expression trim, the new version adds a glass panoramic sunroof, sat-nav and a six-disc CD changer.