Car Makes – Page 919 – Automobiles Review

Renault Megane Renaultsport 265 Trophy

Renault has introduced the most powerful road car in the manufacturer’s history. Megane Renaultsport 265 Trophy comes at just £27 820 and it is ready to outrun VW Golf and Scirocco R models.

Renaultsport 265 Trophy is powered by a turbocharged 2.0 litre petrol engine with staggering 265PS and 360Nm of torque available between 3000 and 5000RPM. The hot hatch achieves impressive power-to-weight ratio of 191HP per tonne. Not bad, not bad at all!

The results are thanks to an improvement in maximum turbo pressure, which is now 2.5 bar and a new air intake revised to take account of the higher pressure and running temperatures.

A great addition to the sports hatchback is free access to the full 2012 Renaultsport UK trackday calendar, worth around £650.

Besides of the brutal engine, Renaultsport 265 Trophy comes with a huge 19” gloss black Speedline alloys with red rim fitted with high-performance Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tyres. The car boasts “Trophy” red decals on the F1-style front blade and doors, and LED daytime running lights.

Megane 265 Trophy features stiffer springs, dampers and anti-roll bar and grooved brake discs. It also has a mechanical limited slip differential, Brembo brakes, as well as the innovative PerfoHub independent steering axis front suspension set-up, which virtually eliminates torque steer. All these upgrades makes the Megane a perfect road car suitable for time attack at racetracks.

Megane Renaultsport 265 Trophy will be limited to just 500 units, so you’d better hurry up. Orderrs open 20^th June and first deliveries end July.

Source: Renault

June 10, 2011

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is set to have its official debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. However, the premium manufacturer has released full details and specification about the new SAV.

By “new” we don’t mean entirely redesigned model, but a slight facelift, which practically is the old M-Class, but with bigger taillights and interesting headlights. The highlights worth mentioning include a new front grille, new wheel designs from 17” to 21” as the biggest come with AMG badge. The improvements are present, still, we think that the rear lights are directly taken from BMW E61 (the previous 5-Series touring). It is tough to create something new and different these days, but this is Mercedes! If they don’t have the designers and the engineers to create a real new SAV, nobody can’t.

The interior is something different. The cabin is way better than the previous model and now feature higher quality materials and a lot of wood. Yes! The dashboard came directly from the S-Class, so we love it. The center console is wider and has some aluminum elements. The updated COMAND system is also present and as an option, you can order panoramic sunroof. Nice!

As you may suggest, the engines are brilliant. The entry level is ML 250 BlueTec with 2.1 liter four-cylinder diesel delivering hefty 204PS (150 kW) and 500Nm (369 lb-ft). The more powerful diesel – ML 350 BlueTec comes with a 3.0 liter V6 with 258PS (190 kW) and 619Nm (457 lb-ft). The performance is brutal – 0 to 100 km/h for 7.5 seconds and top speed of 224 km/h. Excellent for SAV.

The petrol engine is in ML 350 BueEfficiency with a 3.5 liter V6 with 306PS (225 kW) and 370Nm (273 lb-ft). The top speed is 235 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h takes 7.6 seconds.

All engines come with a 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox delivering the power to an all-wheel drive system.

The new M-Class has a selective damping suspension, while the Airmatic self-leveling air suspension and an Active Curve System with dynamic roll stabilization is available as an option. The SAV equipped with this will be a pleasure to drive.

The safety is at extemely high level – Night View Assist Plus including pedestrian recognition, Speed Limit Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Active Park Assist and Distronic Plus and some other intersting systems.

The price is not announced, yet!

Check the specifications below.

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class:

	ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC	ML 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC (Predecessor)	ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC	ML 350 CDI 4MATIC (Predecessor)
Number of cylinders	4	6	6	6
Displacement cc	2143	2987	2987	2987
Rated ouput hp	204	204	258	231
Max torque Nm	500	500	620	540
NEDC combined mpg CO₂ / km	43.4 – 47.0 158	31.4 – 33.6 224	38.1 – 41.5 179	30.0 – 31.8 235-246
Acceleration 0 – 62 mph s	9.0	8.3	7.4	7.6
Top speed mph	130	130	139	136
Emissions standard	EU6	EU5	EU6	EU5

	ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY	ML 350 4MATIC (predecessor)
Number of cylinders	6	6
Displacement cc	3498	3498
Rated output hp	306	272
Max torque Nm	370	350
NEDC combined mpg CO₂ / km	32.1 – 33.2 199	23.5 – 24.7 266
Acceleration 0-62 mph s	7.6	8.4
Top speed mph	146	139
Emissions standard	EU5	EU5

Air flow optimisation:

Sealing around the radiator section with adjustable fan shutter
Sealed joints between the bonnet and the headlamps
Front wheel spoilers
Air outlets in the front wheel well liners
Redesigned exterior mirror housings
Optimised roof spoiler
Side spoilers on the rear window (ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC)
Underfloor and engine compartment panelling
Aerodynamically optimised light-alloy wheels

Comfort and driving dynamics:

To improve traction, the slip thresholds and shift points of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS system have been raised
A flatter accelerator pedal curve improves the sensitivity with which the driver can accelerate
Off-road ABS ensures optimum braking on a loose surface

ON&OFFROAD package:

Automatic – covers most everyday driving operations
Offroad 1 – light terrain, dirt roads and tracks
Offroad 2 – challenging off-road terrain with hilly stretches
Winter – for driving in wintry conditions on slippery roads, on snow, ice or with snow chains
Sport – more adventurous, dynamic driving on winding roads
Trailer – optimises moving off, manoeuvring and braking with a trailer

Comfort:

Improved rigidity of the front end structure thanks to struts between the lines of the upper and lower longitudinal members
Increased comfort, yet also reduction in weight, thanks to hybrid construction of front module
Particularly robust cockpit cross member made in lightweight magnesium alloy
Intelligent use of acoustic insulation
In the production plants, insulation is fitted to the bodyshell where it is needed by computer-controlled robots. In the firewall area, the mass distribution of the insulation material used may vary in places in order to counteract potential noise penetration.
Aluminium transmission cross member with integrated vibration damper in the diesel models
Vibrationally optimised 7G-TRONIC PLUS with twin-turbine damper and, in the diesel models, a centrifugal pendulum
Electronically mapped hydraulic engine mounts in the diesel versions
Decoupled exhaust system on diesel models
Standard chassis with selective damping, as an option: AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping system or AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping system and ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM dynamic roll stabilisation.
Electric steering
Component compartment wall in plastic in order to minimise penetration of noise from engine compartment into the interior
External noise minimised through acoustic encapsulation of engines
High-insulation acoustic windscreen
Additional aero-acoustic sealing in the side sections

Passive safety:

Two-stage adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger
Kneebag for the driver
Sidebags for driver and front passenger (combined thorax/pelvis bags)
Sidebags in the rear row of seats as an option
Windowbags across both rows of seats from the A to the C-pillar
3-point seat belts on all five seats
Pyrotechnic reel tensioners and permanent belt force limiters as well as electrically reversible belt tensioners in the front, reel tensioners and single-stage force limiters for the outer seats in the rear
ISOFIX child seat anchorage
Belt height adjustment for driver and front passenger
Belt status display for rear-seat passengers in the instrument cluster
Automatic child seat recognition (optional) with deactivation of the front passenger airbag if a special Mercedes-Benz child seat is used.
In a rear-end collision, a passive head restraint system developed specifically for this purpose can reduce the forces exerted on occupants.

Intelligent partner::

Intelligent Light System, ILS, with specific lighting functions
Night View Assist Plus with automatic person recognition
Speed Limit Assist (standard feature of the COMAND Online option)
Lane Keeping Assist – active/passive
Blind Spot Assist – active/passive
DISTRONIC PLUS
BAS PLUS (in conjunction with DISTRONIC PLUS)
PRE-SAFE^® Brake with autonomous braking (in conjunction with DISTRONIC PLUS)

Source: Mercedes

June 10, 2011

HPD Honda CR-Z Racer Hybrid

Honda will take a part at this year’s Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race with CR-Z Hybrid coupe. The specially prepared car was firstly unveiled at last year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas. It is developed by Honda Performance Development (HPD), the “racing arm” of American Honda.

HPD Honda CR-Z Racer Hybrid is powered by a 1.5 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol with the help of an electric motor. Both are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and the overall power is 200HP and 237Nm of torque, which makes a specific power of 133HP per litre. Not bad at all!

The electric motor takes power from a 7 kWh Li-ion battery pack and helps the internal combustion engine, when it is needed.

CR-Z Hybrid offers superb fuel consumption and nice performance, so we are excited to see, how it will perform at the race track.

HPD Honda CR-Z Racer Hybrid 644 — HPD Honda CR-Z Racer Hybrid

HPD Honda CR-Z Racer hybrid:

Production year: 2010

Configuration: Combination IMA hybrid
(Electric motor between the internal combustion engine and gearbox)
Li-ion battery 7 kWh/173 volts

Architecture: 4 cylinders in line, mounted transversely in front, FWD

Displacement: 1,497 cm3

Type: SOHC, 4 valves / cylinder; fuel Injection and turbocharger

Transmission: 6 speed manual

Power: 200 hp

Max torque: 237 Nm

Specific Power: 133 hp / litre

Source: Honda

June 9, 2011

Skoda Octavia vRS saloon Bonneville

Skoda UK will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its iconic vRS performance flagship with a staggering Octavia vRS Bonneville, which aims to go with more than 200MPH (320 km/h). The record attemp will be made during the world famous Bonneville Speed Week in August (13-20).

The tuned Octavia vRS includes some staggering upgrades like improving the aerodynamics and performance. The car is lowered with 80mm and features a new sub-frame which houses a race prepared intercooler.

The engine remains the same 2.0 litre turbocharged petrol TSI, but with enormous turbo from Garret. The result is 600PS at 28 PSI of boost pressure (almost 2 bars) with 120 RON high octane race control fuel with water methanol injection.

Since its launch in 2001, vRS has captured the hearts of UK motorists who enjoy the thrill of sports car driving. Since then, the UK has become Skoda’slargest market for the Octavia and Fabia vRS with more than 12 000 cars sold since launch.

“The 10-year relationship between the UK and the vRS badge has been extremely successful. This is a landmark anniversary and going to Bonneville is a fitting tribute. It’s also an ambitious project which might surprise a few people, but Škoda is all about engineering excellence and this car is pushing that to new limits.”, commented Robert Hazelwood, Director for Skoda UK.

Skoda Octavia vRS:

Performance
	Škoda Octavia vRS (Bonneville Special)	Škoda Octavia vRS (Standard production car)
Max speed – mph (km/h)	200+ (322+)	149 (240)
Acceleration 0–62mph	TBC	7.2 secs
Max. performance (PS)	550-600	200
Max. torque (Nm/rpm)	450/6,000-7,700 rpm	280/1,700-5,000
Fuel consumption mpg (l/100km)	TBC	36.7 (7.7) combined
CO₂ emissions g/km	TBC	180
Engine
Engine type	TSI	TSI
Valves per cylinder	4	4
Traverse-mounted	Yes	Yes
Fuel injection type	Direct fuel injection	Direct fuel injection
Cubic capacity	1,984	1,984
Bore x stroke (mm)	82.5 x 92.8	82.5 x 92.8
Compression ratio	9.6:1	9.6:1
Turbo	Garret G05 65mm twin blade billet cut compressor wheel with ported intake housing & TIAL exhaust housing with 40mm external waste gate and 55mm blow-off valve	Stock Škoda IHI turbo with internal recirculation valve mounted on cast exhaust manifold
Boost pressure	26-28 psi	18-20 psi
Fuel type	120 RON high octane race control fuel with water methanol injection	95 RON unleaded petrol
Engine management software	Stock Škoda engine control unit with REVO Technik software AIM data logging	Stock Škoda engine control unit
Transmission
Clutch	Hydraulically- activated single plate four-pad sintered clutch with single mass flywheel	Hydraulically-activated single-plate dry clutch with diaphragm spring, asbestos-free coating
Manual transmission	Six-speed Octavia GreenLine II manual transmission,fully synchronised with direct gearshift and GripperDiff Limited Slip Differential	Six-speed manual transmission

Chassis
Front axle/rear axle	MacPherson axle with independent multi-link suspension	MacPherson axle with the bottom triangular control arms and independent multi-link suspension with one longitudinal and two cross arms and torsion stabiliser
Suspension	K&W coilovers two-way adjustable with anti-roll bar removed. Ride height of 50mm (subframe from floor).	Coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers, rear springs located outside the shock absorbers (gas shock absorbers in rear)
Front brakes	Škoda Octavia GreenLine front discs and calipers for reduced drag	Disc brakes, with hollow discs, internal cooling and single-piston floating calliper
Rear brakes	None	Disc brakes with full discs and single-piston floating callipers
Measurements and Weights
Kerb weight (kg)	1,450	1,395
Total weight (kg)	2,000	1,950
Ground clearance (mm)	50	128
Wheels & Tyres
Wheel type	Škoda GreenLine 15” steel wheels	18” Neptune alloys
Tyre type	Goodyear Eagle Land Speed Tyres	7.5J x 18” 225/40 R18 92Y

Source :Skoda

June 9, 2011

KW BMW 1-series M Coupe

KW now offers Variant 3 coilover for BMW 1-Series M Coupe. The suspension kit will further improve the handling of the sport variant of 1-Series. The enhanced adjustable compression damping allows the M Coupe to expertly master sharp bends. So, the car is easier to handle at high speeds and the driver receives greater response from the road.

However, if you think that the comfort will suffer, you are wrong. At low speed, the impact of transverse joints is no longer transferred unfiltered into the passenger cabin for example. So, you receive not only stiffened suspension, but a better comfort, too.

Of course, the stance can be adjusted to your taste – thanks to the continuously variable suspension lowering . BMW 1-Series M Coupe with KW Coilover Variant 3 can be lowered between 10 and 35 millimetres at the front and 5 and 25 millimetres at the rear axle.

Last, but not least, there are six levels of firmness. The price of this pleasure is 1879 Euro including VAT, so if you are considering a suspension upgrade for your 1-Series M Coupe, KW has the answer.

KW BMW 1-series M Coupe

Source: KW

June 8, 2011

2012 Volkswagen Beetle US Price – $18 995

Volkswagen US has priced the new 2012 Beetle at just $18 995 for the entry-level model featuring 2.5 liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 172PS (127 kW) and 240Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque.

It offers fuel economy that is improved by up to 10 percent over past 2.5L models. The gearbox choice is between 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic. The engines returns 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway and 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, respectively for manual and automatic.

The 2.5L comes standard with a split folding rear seat, aux-in for portable audio players, a leather steering wheel, unique and customizable 17” alloy wheels, and an eight-speaker audio system. The options list includes additional glovebox, Bluetooth technology, iPod connectivity, heated front seats, three-color interior ambient lighting, and leatherette seating surfaces.

The 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol TSI has a decent power of 203PS (149 kW) and 280Nm (207 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and DSG dual-clutch is available as an option. The fuel economy rating is 30 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg in the city.

2012-Volkswagen-Beetle

The second level of equipment adds Bluetooth® technology, iPod® connectivity, three-color ambient lighting, larger brakes with red calipers, a kaeferfach additional glovebox that is similar to that of the original Beetle, sport seating surfaces, 18” alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, foglights, three additional gauges on the dashboard and alloy pedals.

In 2012, Volkswagen Bettle will be available with 2.0 liter TDI engine with 142PS (104 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. The pricing will be revealed close to launch. This will be the most fuel-efficient Beetle ever, with an expected highway estimate of 40 mpg.

2012 Volkswagen Beetle includes Volkswagen’s advanced Intelligent Crash Response System that shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in some types of collisions. It also features 3-year/36 000-mile scheduled Carefree Maintenance® Program.
2012 volkswagen beetle

Source: Volkswagen US

June 8, 2011

2012 Mazda BT-50 Freestyle

Mazda is preparing the all new BT-50 Freestyle pick-up, which will make its official debut at the 2011 Australian International Motor Show (1st to 10th July). Mazda BT-50 will feature the revolutionary Freestyle door configuration first seen on the RX-8 and a unique combination of seating for four, an exceptionally wide pillar-less door opening, and a large carrying capacity.

On each side of the cabin, a front-hinged door and a rear access panel combine to provide a 1 408mm-wide opening that makes for easy entry to and exit from either the front or rear seats.

The rear-seat comfort is at decent level. The cushions have been lengthened by 50mm for better thigh support and more stable fitment of child seats while the seatback height has been increased by 128mm.

Furthermore, the bed hold 1453 liters, which is 266 liters more than the current model.

“Just as we were delighted to be given the privilege of hosting the global debut of the All-New BT-50 Dual Cab in Sydney last year, we are equally delighted to be hosting the global debut of the Freestyle Cab in Melbourne this year. With Australia expected to be the largest market for the All-New BT-50 it’s no coincidence that we’ve been asked to host not one but two global unveilings of this important new model. It’s only appropriate that the Australian public see it first.”, commented Mazda Australia managing director, Doug Dickson.

The all-new 2012 Mazda BT-50 will go on sale later this year.

2012 Mazda BT-50 Freestyle

Source: Mazda

June 8, 2011

2012 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback Price – £13 995

Chevrolet has priced Cruze Hatchback at just £13 995 on-the-road. The car will arrive at the dealerships next month and will offer premium specification at surprisingly affordable price.

“The hatchback version of the Cruze is a massively important new car for us, as it not only appeals on a retail level, but also massively increases Chevrolet’s appeal to the fleet market – alongside the Orlando and the New Captiva, and with a new Aveo just round the corner, we have a truly holistic model range that will appeal to fleet managers, user-choosers and retail customers alike.”, commented Chevrolet Managing Director, Mark Terry.

The car comes with a 5-year warranty and will be offered in three trim levels with a choice of two petrol or one diesel engine. All have Electronic Stability Control as standard, along with a host of safety features comparable to the five-star Euro NCAP rated Cruze saloon.

2012 Chevrolet Cruze LS 1.6 litre with 124PS features Air conditioning, remote locking, electric-front windows, follow-me-home headlights, electrically-adjustable heated door mirrors and a quality radio/CD player with auxiliary input.

The LT model is priced at £14 895. It adds cruise control, electric windows all round, a multi-function trip computer, parking distance sensors, 16” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, steering wheel audio controls and a leather steering wheel and gearknob

Starting at £16 095, the LTZ trim offers Bluetooth, a USB port, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, an electro-chromatic rear view mirror, 17” alloys and aluminium-effect trim on the instrument panel

The bigger 1.8 liter petrol develops 141PS is mated to a 5-speed manual or automatic gearbox. The diesel variant is a 2.0 liter VCDi delivering 163PS comes with either 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

Chevrolet Cruze 5-door hatchback

Model	Engine	Transmission	On-the-road price
LS	1.6 petrol	Manual	£13,995
LT	1.6 petrol	Manual	£14,895
LT	1.6 petrol	Auto	£15,895
LT	2.0 VCDi	Manual	£17,195
LTZ	1.8 petrol	Manual	£16,095
LTZ	1.8 petrol	Auto	£17,095
LTZ	2.0 VCDi	Manual	£17,795
LTZ	2.0 VCDi	Auto	£18,795
LTZ Exec Pack	2.0 VCDi	Manual	£19,295
LTZ Exec Pack	2.0 VCDi	Auto	£20,295

Source: Chevrolet

June 8, 2011

AF Corse STP Ferrari F458

A month after the scoring points in the first two rounds of the FIA GT3 Europe Championship in Portugal – Dan Brown and Glynn Geddie with AF Corse STP Ferrari F458 lined up at the weekend on the newly-configured Silverstone Grand Prix circuit for the two gruelling one-hour follow-up races in the series.

The youngest drivers have contract with Italian AF Corse Ferrari racing team, and are sponsored by legendary fuel additives brand, STP, Apex Tubulars plus car styling company, Brown & Geeson, to drive the competition derivative of the Ferrari 458 supercar, prepared by AF Corse in Piacenza, Italy.

There was a mechanical problem at the mandatory driver change-over on Saturday. Still, the team set their sights realistically on a podium finish, if not victory itself. But in race two, Dan put the disappointment behind him, again lapping amongst the fastest, to charge to a great fourth place overall with team-mate Geddie.

“It was good to leave Silverstone with more points under our belt. It’s a super-tough championship, and I’m proud to be one of only seven British drivers in the series, and hugely honoured to be driving for the prestige AF Corse Ferrari racing team…and there couldn’t be a more exciting way to learn a bit of Italian!”, commented Dan Brown, after the race.

“ I think we can be satisfied with P4 and our consistently strong pace all weekend was very encouraging, so we will keep pushing and hopefully bring home a podium at the next rounds of the series, at Navarra, Spain on July 2/3.”, Glynn Geddie added.

AF Corse STP Ferrari F458

Source: STP

June 8, 2011

2012 BMW 1-Series M package

There is something wrong with the new 2012 BMW 1-Series. Just a day after the car has been revealed and the M Sport package is already on its way. Probably, the manufacturer is scared that the new 1-Series won’t so appreciated like the previous model, so they are hurrying to improve the exterior of the car.

The ///M Sport package consists of a new front bumper, revised rear bumper and big alloy wheels. The interior boasts a sport steering wheel, door sill with ///M logo and some aluminum trim with blue accents.

There is no information about the price list, but it won’t be cheap. Still, it is a kind of improvement for new the bland 1-Series.

We are eager to see, how the fans will respond to the bold design, which has nothing in common with the aggressive cars designed by Chris Bangle.

2012 BMW 1-Series M package

Source: BMW

June 7, 2011

To SUV or not to SUV?

So, what is actually the SUV? According to the manufacturers this is a “Sport Utility Vehicle”. It is 4 wheel drive, or maybe not? It can take you off-road, or maybe not? What is the difference between a crossover and a SUV?

How it all began? The SUV was actually extremely popular in the 1930s for many years on. They were mostly bought by rural people who were able to take advantage of the good off-road capabilities of these vehicles.

During the late 1990s when these vehicles were gaining popularity, they used to be based on pick-ups. However in the beginning on 2000s the prices of oil, gas and maintenance pushed towards using automobile platforms and Crossovers started to take over.

What is the situation today? In Europe these cars are losing popularity more and more. They are gradually replaced by crossovers because of their lower maintenance fees, better mpg figures and smooth design. In North America people are still using SUVs for farms or in case the family owns something that needs hauling like trailers, caravans etc..

The father of all SUVs Chevrolet Suburban 1937

In Europe, however, the SUV vehicles seem to be doomed. Not too many manufacturers bother developing new models anyway. At least not in the way we know SUVs. VW for example has the TIGUAN. It is based on the VW golf platform and shares the same engines and transmissions. Having 17” alloys and low profile tires, despite the optional 4motion all it will not take too far away from the tarmac roads. Being higher than the golf and heavier than the Golf, it does worse MPG wise. So basically you could get a VW Golf Variant with better dynamics, better MPG figures and better price and only lose the great possibility of climbing small curbs in the city.

So, what is the conclusion? Is it cheaper, not really. Is it comfortable, maybe, if you love boats. Just get yourself a nice saloon or a huge van. It is better to have one or two features right, rather than having all wrong.

June 7, 2011

2011 Mazda MX-5 Price – £17 990

Mazda MX-5 is the world’s best-selling two-seat roadster. It celebrates production of over 900 000 units and it has been ranked the highest sports car in the 2011 J.D. Power ownership satisfaction survey, published last week.

The iconic Mazda MX-5 is priced at just £17 990 and it goes up to £23 225 for the top-of-range model. Two new special edition Kendo models are also on sale from £19 270.

The MX-5 beats the Volkswagen Scirocco, Audi TT, and Mercedes-Benz CLK and SLK.

WhatCar? magazine commented: “The MX-5 proves that sports cars don’t need to be sophisticated, luxurious or expensive to be fun-to-drive. Mazda’s MX-5 has been commended in the past and this year its margin of victory is even bigger than it was in 2010.”

“Today, the Mazda MX-5 remains unrivalled as a rewarding sportscar that can also be used for everyday motoring all year round,” said Peter Allibon, Sales Director, Mazda Motors UK.

“The MX-5 soft-top continues to offer the purest, fun-to-drive thrills, while the Roadster Coupe’s folding hard top provides a more refined experience, with that same exhilarating drive. Its low running costs and legendary reliability means the MX-5 remains an extremely competitive proposition as hundreds of very satisfied owners confirm.”, he added.

“Whether potential buyers are considering purchasing any of the regular MX-5 models, or the latest ‘Kendo’ special editions, this J.D. Power survey result shows that they’d be joining a group of owners who simply love their cars,”, said Allibon.

“It is little wonder that it continues to break records as the world’s best-selling open top roadster.”, he finished.

2011 Mazda MX-5

Source: Mazda

June 7, 2011

Category: Car Makes