Car News

Luton – Hot on the heels of the new-look Corsa range, the Corsa VXR Blue Edition features new styling details, additional kit as standard and a head-turning paintjob, at a price that’ll send its rivals into a spin.



At £19,425 (including 20% VAT), the Corsa VXR Blue undercuts key competitors like the Citroen DS3 R and the Mini Cooper Works by up to £3,600. Included in its price, this limited edition model features Arden Blue metallic paint, 18-inch alloys, dark-tinted glass, bespoke interior air vents and Recaro seats – that equates to a £445 saving compared with the cost of speccing a ‘standard’ Corsa VXR with this kit.



Like other models in the new-look Corsa range, the VXR and VXR Blue sport new ‘Eagle-Eye’ headlamps and a signature bar across the grille, coloured in blue. But in addition, the VXR gets a more aggressive front end, with deep in-set fog lamps, a wider and more prominent grille and a low, sculpted front spoiler to boost its sporting appeal. Inside, blue detailing can be found throughout, including the stitching on the leather steering-wheel, the interior air-vent colour and the trim on the Recaro seats.



Powered by the lightweight 1.6 Turbo, producing 192PS, this VXR boasts a 0-60mph time of just 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 140mph. An overboost feature increases maximum torque to 260+Nm when the power is needed.



The Corsa VXR Blue comes with lowered sports suspension, uprated brakes and switchable Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), guaranteeing enthusiastic drivers a fine mix of dynamic security and adjustability.



Available to order now, the Corsa VXR Blue will hit dealers late February.

Vauxhall Ampera showcases E-REV technology



The five-door, four-seater Vauxhall Ampera is on schedule to go into production late next year. It carries the same design DNA as the new Astra and Car of the Year-winning Insignia, yet it uses groundbreaking extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) technology.



Unlike other conventional propulsion systems, E-REV uses electricity as its primary power source, supplemented by a small engine to generate electricity for its motors when electric power runs low. This helps the Ampera overcome the ‘range anxiety’ issues associated with pure electric cars. Vauxhall will unveil not one, but two cars at this year’s Geneva Motor Show on March 2, with world premieres of the all-new Meriva compact MPV and a futuristic concept car, which is set to boost the company’s credentials as a leader in environmental vehicles.



Bolstering this message still further at the show will be the groundbreaking Ampera extended-range electric vehicle and Vauxhall’s most economical production car to date, the latest Corsa ecoFLEX.



‘Vauxhall is covering all bases at Geneva,’ said Duncan Aldred, Vauxhall’s Managing Director. ‘With the Meriva, we have a unique and innovative take on family motoring, but the concept car and Ampera prove that we are truly at the forefront of environmental technology. These vehicles also show that their versatility and efficiency doesn’t come at the expense of stunning design.’

The UK’s mid-size sector has traditionally been the preserve of conservative and predictable designs. But the Insignia offers buyers in this class a compelling mix of breathtaking design and leading technology.

Style & efficiency with wide choice of powertrains



The Insignia’s elegant styling combines sculptured artistry with technical precision, illustrated by wing and blade themes which integrate with the car’s rakish, but graceful silhouette. The body’s sculpted shape is punctuated by sweeping front and rear light designs and fronted by a bold radiator grille, which displays the refreshed Griffin logo in a new, circular surround carrying Vauxhall’s name.

Another benefit brought by the Insignia’s flowing lines is a spectacularly low Cd of just 0.27, bringing with it benefits in fuel consumption, cabin refinement and performance. All body variants have an identical wheelbase of 2737mm, while the Sport Tourer adds around 80mm to the 4830mm length of the saloon and hatch models.

Insignia’s saloon and hatch models will hit UK dealerships at the end of 2008 with a broad range of two diesel and three petrol engines. The Sports Tourer brought with it two further powertrains, a 1.6-litre, 180PS petrol and a new 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo with a maximum output of 190PS. All powertrains come with either a six-speed manual or six-speed auto transmission.

New technology benefits dynamics and safety



A range of new or improved features on the Insignia enhance everything from dynamics to comfort and safety. The FlexRide system, available on selected models, allows drivers to personalise their suspension set up at the press of a button, or if left alone will automatically adapt to different driving styles. Complementing FlexRide is Adaptive 4X4, which improves handling and stability in all conditions. Standard with both turbocharged petrol powertrains, the system uses electronically controlled hydraulic disc clutch plates to distribute torque from 0-100 per cent between the front and rear axles. On SRi models, an electronic limited slip differential which balances rear wheel torque left to right is also standard.

Vauxhall’s Front Camera System will appear as an option on Insignia soon after launch. This leading technology uses a small camera, positioned inside the car’s windscreen to read and memorise both speed warning and no-overtaking signs, the details of which are relayed back to the driver from the instrument panel. The system also incorporates a lane departure warning, alerting drivers if they unintentionally leave their lane.

The Insignia is also the first Vauxhall to use the latest generation Adaptive Forward Lighting. This clever system now uses nine lighting functions which automatically adapt to information relating to road profile, driving status and general visibility. Models fitted with Intelligent AFL are also equipped with LED daytime running lamps.

Market: “The right car at the right time”



Vauxhall rejuvenated the coupe segment in 1989 with the Calibra and co-founded the compact MPV category ten years later with the Zafira. Now, with the Insignia, Vauxhall is bringing much-needed panache to a market segment that is being revitalised as people search for vehicle with greater fuel efficiency.

The Insignia’s innovative design has the potential not only to excite mid-size car buyers again, but also to recapture customers leaving the large SUV segments because of high fuel costs. Mid-size cars currently account for around 10 per cent of the European market, but it is expected that this figure will increase again.

“This is the right car being introduced at the right time as people are moving from large sports utility vehicles. The Insignia is expressive looking, uses fuel efficiently and has five full seats and plenty of luggage capacity all important features for families,” says Alain Visser, GME’s Chief Marketing Officer.

Developed by General Motors Europe, with a significant contribution coming from Vauxhall’s Engineering Centre at Millbrook in Bedfordshire, UK, the Insignia will be built at GME’s plant in Rüsselsheim.

Dynamic design and powerful performance enhancements



The MANSORY refining programme for the BMW 7series



MANSORY Switzerland AG is one of the leading addresses when it comes to the exclusive modification of luxury cars. The company confirms this fact once again with its developments for the current BMW 7 series (model F01 and F02). It produced an entire tuning programme and makes the four-door limousine even more dynamic and unique.



The look of the MANSORY aerodynamics kit is based on vibrant elegance. The component parts of the front bumper perfectly blend in with the fitted LED daytime running lights and the new carbon radiator grill and turn the MANSORY 7 series front into a dynamic eye-catcher. The roof spoiler, the rear rim and the rear apron designed in the diffuser look also interact outstandingly. The MANSORY sports exhaust system renders an impressive growling sound. The end mufflers are made of stainless steel and the rectangular end pipes perfectly integrate into the newly designed rear section.



But MANSORY not only knows how to make an engine growl, it also provides breathtaking performance enhancements. With performance kits for the models 750i and 760 Li, MANSORY supplies the core part of the extensive tuning programme. The kits consist of an optimised engine electronics combined with a sports air filter. 360 kW / 490 hp and 720 Nm torque with the 750i as well as 470 kW / 640 hp and 920 Nm torque with the 760Li – these key figures show a significant effect on the stop watch. The optimised MANSORY 760 Li accelerates from 0 to 60 miles an hour in only 4,2 seconds and is therefore 0,4 seconds faster than its serial counterpart.



Such a performance also cries for larger wheels. Especially for the requirements of the BMW 7 series, MANSORY offers a combination for significantly improved handling and exclusive appearance. The one-part polished rims measure impressive 22 inches. The wheels are 10 inches wide and accommodate high-performance tyres measuring 265/35 at the front axle and 295/30 at the back.



A highlight of the interior design is the ergonomically re-designed sports steering wheel. Thanks to its new shape, lies significantly better in your hand and still offers all functions of the serial steering wheel. If noble or dynamic – MANSORY has the right component parts for any interior wishes. Carbon or burl wood, leather or ultra-suede. If desired, the MANSORY upholstery department can produce anything to make your heart grow faster. From personalised floor mat sets to entire leather equipments, everything is manufactured in masterly precision. Individually designed for you and fitted into your car by skilled craftsmen.



MANSORY Switzerland AG solely offers its own modifying kit and does not trade or sell entire cars.

Soon after the presentation of the individualised BMW X5, MANSORY Switzerland AG, with its sister model the BMW X6, presents in society the second Bavarian automobile to be the fortunate object of a comprehensive revamp. An exclusive bodywork, performance and interior programme has been developed and gives the SUV coupé a definitely more sporty appearance.





Just as with all previous vehicles, with the BMW X6, MANSORY has paid close attention to the precise fit of parts while at the same time bearing in mind a sporty, individual design. The perfectly harmonising details turn the high demands which MANSORY makes on itself and on its products into reality and transform the wide-bodied Bavarian into a real eye-catcher. Due to a new front spoiler with larger air intakes and an extra light bonnet made entirely of carbon which, with its ventilation channels, optimises air flow to the front engine, the MANSORY X6 already looks a lot more brawny when you catch sight of it in the rear-view mirror. This impression is reinforced even more by the widened wings which flow into the newly designed side skirts and give the vehicle around 70 millimetres more width at the front and 80 millimetres at the rear.



At the back a newly designed skirt comes into play using an integrated diffuser which has room for four stainless steel exhaust pipes from the MANSORY sports exhaust system. A roof spoiler for additional contact pressure and a rear spoiler lip give the MANSORY X6 more stability at high speeds. Nearly all the aerodynamic components are fabricated by the engineers from high-tensile polyurethane (PU-RIM) by the engineers from high-tensile polyurethane (PU-RIM) and from prepreg autoclave carbon, characteristic of MANSORY. In the process, the preformed carbon-fibre parts are given a permanent shape in autoclaves by the effects of vacuum and heat which guarantees a perfect surface finish with low weight.



So that the overwhelming visual presence is given appropriate backup, MANSORY treats the BMW X6 M's production engine to a performance upgrade. At around 670 HP / 493 kW and a huge torque of 950 Nm at 5900 rpm, the MANSORY X6 surpasses the original figures by a long chalk (production engine: 555 HP / 408 kW and 680 Nm at 1500 - 5650 rpm). This leap in performance is made possible by using an entirely new exhaust system complete with exhaust manifold and perfected engine electronics. The performance, too, benefits from these modifications. In a mere 4.2 seconds, the MANSORY X6 makes it from a standing start to main road speed and thanks to a Vmax override reaches a top speed of 300 kms/h.



Contact with the road is via distinctive MANSORY light alloy rims. These improve the handling and highlight the vehicle's appearance. The M10 silver-highlight the vehicle's appearance. The M10 silver-finished, cast, monoblock wheels are equipped with 315/25R23 tyres which make for the right surface grip. With progressively wound sports suspension and an adapted height adjustment, at the same time the vehicle's centre of gravity is lowered by around 40 millimetres so that the 23" wheels fill the wheel arches. Larger brake discs and a multi-piston brake system to improve the deceleration values of the MANSORY X6 are already at the trial stage.



With the ergonomically, newly designed MANSORY Sports steering wheel, MANSORY Switzerland offers customers a special feature for the vehicle interior. Just as for all other MANSORY vehicles the same applies to the BMW X6: the customer can compose his own quite personal vehicle interior from the practically endless combinations of leather, Alcantara, wood, carbon or aluminium trim and just about any technical gadget imaginable. The in-house MANSORY leather workshop is always available to turn the customer's wishes into reality.

New Powertrain line-up adds high efficiency and sovereign performance

Significant reduction in interior noise

Chassis improvements for better ride and handling

Updated design for a sporty-elegant look





The most notable changes in the Antara’s mid-cycle enhancements, which will be introduced at the end of this year, are in the powertrain. The fully re-worked engine line-up, all Euro-5 compliant, now offers improved driving performance as well as significantly reduced consumption and emissions. Even the two available transmissions – a six-gear manual and automatic – have undergone completely new developments to improve efficiency and dynamics.



The latest entry to the engine range is a newly-developed 2.2 CDTI Turbo diesel, which comes with two outputs. The 120 kW/163 hp offers 36 hp more than its predecessor model. The 135 kW/184 hp version offers 34 hp more power.



The 163 hp variant is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive as well as with manual or automatic six-gear transmissions. The 184 hp also offers a choice of manual or automatic transmissions and comes with all-wheel drive as standard.



The gasoline line-up, too, offers more power. The 2.4 liter, four-cylinder version now comes with 125 kW/170 hp, or, 30 hp more power. Like the diesel variants, this engine is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive and comes as manual or automatic six-gear transmission.



The engine variants come with variable camshaft phasing for the inlet and exhaust, which optimizes the torque and performance characteristics as well as lowers fuel consumption and emissions. Naturally an active, re-worked chassis fits nicely to the new Antara, offering dynamic handling and excellent traveling comfort.



Strong presence through accentuated front design

On the street, the Antara turns heads with its chic, upscale look. Its new, front grill with bold logo makes it immediately recognizable as a member of the new Opel design family. The fog lights together with chrome bezels and a well-blended pedestrian protection lends the vehicle a harmonious look with a strong presence. Modified rear lights and optional 19-inch light-metal wheels round out the robust look.



Designers have added a new Daydream Beige exterior color, to update the Antara’s palette. The new light beige creates a warm, upscale contemporary impression. This is in addition to the seven hues already on offer in Europe, allowing customers to find a color to meet their taste.



Inside, too, Opel has updated the choice to include a Light Titanium in the Cosmos trim level, in addition to the existing dark Saddle Brown and Jet Black. The lighter interior beautifully matches the new fabric and optimized instrument graphic and effective interior lighting. Together they underscore the prestigious ambiance of the cabin. A new center console with extra storage solutions has been added, thanks to the new electric parking brake, which opens up space between the two front seats.



Opel has improved safety and comfort features in the Antara as well. This includes a standard electric parking brake and a Hill Assist System. With these changes, the market segment of the compact SUV has a new competitor in the ring.

The dynamics of a passenger car with the talents of an off-roader



Chassis fine-tuning means the Antara is agile enough to maneuver its way through tough terrain, yet comfortable – and quiet – enough for daily drives to the city or soccer pitch. The enhancements ensure a high level of ride, handling, and safety performance. They include:



Improved stopping performance due to changes in the ABS efficiency, chassis tuning and 19-inch performance touring tires.

Application of Hill Start Assist on all vehicles, a feature that holds the vehicle on grades of three-percent or steeper for 1.5 seconds after the brake pedal is released. This technology essentially eliminates “roll-back” on hills when the vehicle needs to be stopped momentarily and ensures easier, confident “drive away” on grades;

New Electric Parking Brake Dynamic Assist (EPBDA), a feature in which the electronic brake control module applies four-corner braking in conditions where it is necessary to safely slow down the vehicle.



In addition, engineers have focused on a series of chassis hardware refinements to ensure enhanced vehicle dynamics like cornering, reduced “roll” characteristics, and improved ride feel.



The Antara’s four-wheel drive system combines the benefits of front-wheel drive − such as low fuel consumption and virtually effortless maneuvering − with those of four-wheel drive. While the engine normally powers the front wheels, the propulsion power can also be quickly and seamlessly distributed between the front and rear axle at a ratio of up to 50:50 when needed. The key element for this active function is an electronically controlled, electro-magnetically operated, electro-hydraulic differential on the rear axle. The compact and light four-wheel drive system is fully integrated in the ABS and ESP systems and supports the driver effectively in all driving situations, such as during heavy acceleration.



The new Opel Antara comes with three newly developed powertrains, upgraded manual and automatic transmissions, a re-tuned chassis and a new interior designed for more comfort.



With three newly developed powertrains, upgraded manual and automatic transmissions, a re-tuned chassis and a new interior designed for comfort, the Antara combines off-road capability with urban chic. Now, thanks to its attractive pricing, the next generation Opel Antara offers excellent value for money. The Antara 2.4 l (123 kW/167 hp) gasoline version with front-wheel drive starts at 26,780 euros in Germany.



This cool crossover meets the most exacting demands in terms of design, driving dynamics, economy and functionality. The enhancements are rounded off by a stylish exterior design and an interior which has been upgraded in terms functionality, look and feel. Together with the front and all-wheel drive options, the Antara offers something for everyone.



The powertrain range includes a newly developed common-rail diesel engine with 2.2-liters displacement and 2.4-liter gasoline engine. The 2.2-liter diesel is available in two output levels (120 kW/163 hp, 135 kW/184 hp). The gasoline version, which has also been upgraded, delivers 123 kW/167 hp. The 163 hp diesel and the gasoline-powered model are available with front or all-wheel drive and with manual or automatic six-speed transmission.



All engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards. Compared with their predecessors, they combine increased agility and driving dynamics with considerably lower fuel consumption and emissions.



Both transmission types are also available for the 184 hp diesel version, while the all-wheel drive system is standard with this engine. To match the new engines, the newly tuned chassis offers an extremely well-balanced combination of dynamic handling and suspension comfort.



The exterior highlights of the updated Antara include a newly designed front grille with the trademark Opel chrome bar, new fog lamps, adapted underride protection, modified rear lights and large-format, 19-inch alloy wheels. The enhanced interior features new paneling and upholstery materials, optimized instrument graphics, a new center console, additional storage space as well as elegant interior lighting. An especially high-grade leather version, called Light Titanium is available as an option.



“The new Antara combines the looks of a sporty off-roader with urban chic. It is practical, functional and equipped with state-of-the-art technology,” says Alain Visser, Vice President Marketing, Sales & Aftersales. “You really notice that it has undergone a major character change. With completely new engines and a newly tuned chassis, the car has become much more dynamic and more comfortable. In short: it offers clear added value in terms of driving pleasure.”

• Efficient power: 70 kW/95 hp Corsa ecoFLEX now with Start/Stop at 94 g/km CO2


• Sporty: Updated outfit wraps Corsa in new Opel family look


• Individual: New trim levels and Color Line models for wider personalization choice

Rüsselsheim. The Opel Corsa’s makeover continues: following the overhaul of everything under its skin in 2010, Opel’s successful small car is getting a new wardrobe in 2011. A redesigned face lends it a sportier, expressive look, making it instantly recognizable as a member of the new Opel family. New exterior colors and interior looks as well as a great offer of individualized, sporty versions make it more attractive than ever. The Corsa now also comes with a new, multimedia infotainment system called “Touch & Connect” that features a five-inch color touch screen, full navigation coverage for 28 European countries, Bluetooth, iPod and USB connections at a very competitive price.



While all engines have been reworked in 2010 to offer more power with lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, a new 70 kW/ 95 hp ecoFLEX 1.3 CDTI version now equipped with Start/Stop technology further increases the Corsa’s overall efficiency: The three-door version only requires 3.5 liters diesel per 100 km and emits just 94 g/km CO2. Start/Stop technology especially enables a reduction in fuel consumption in urban traffic – at 4.2 liter/100 km versus 4.6 l/100 km previously for the Corsa 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX emitting 98 g/km CO.



A complete family on constant move

A major player in the European market since 1982, the Opel Corsa offers one of the widest product ranges in the small car segment. It comes in two distinct body styles: the coupé-like three-door, the family friendly five-door, and a commercial variant called Corsavan. Inside the cabin, it continuously seduces with one of the roomiest and most attractive interiors in its class. The Corsa also offers many innovative features not offered by its peers – like a heated steering wheel or the integrated bicycle carrier FlexFix – as well as many that are rarely available in the segment like halogen Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL), Hill Start Assist and a panorama sunroof.



The powertrain line-up of the Opel Corsa ranges from 48 kW/65 hp to 141 kW/192 hp. This engine family was updated in 2010 with many new engines meeting Euro 5 emission standards that reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 13 percent while increasing engine power in most applications. To help drivers lower their fuel consumption even while driving a powerful car, a ‘shift up’ indicator light was added to the main instrument display.



The reworked 1.6-liter turbo 141 kW/192 hp OPC version continues to top the Corsa family. The face of the Corsa OPC was also redesigned to match the rest of the new line-up, especially with new headlamps and a new grille.



On the diesel side, different versions of the 1.3 and 1.7 CDTI units offer outputs ranging from 55 kW/75 hp to 96 kW/130 hp – and merely sip diesel; all have fuel consumption between 3.5 and 4.6 liters per 100 kilometers.



Flair and individuality for every taste

The four trim levels Essentia, Enjoy, Cosmo and Sport that enable customers to personalize their Corsa exactly as they wish have been reworked for 2011. New contemporary colors and decors are offered both inside and out. In the Charcoal environment, the Enjoy interior can also be dressed with more expressive Tabasco Orange or Steel Blue decors. The new exterior color palette integrates a delicate off-white Guacamole, eye-catching Grasshopper green and daring, warm Henna.



In addition, the successful, sporty Color Line that already accounts for some 20 per cent of Corsa sales in Germany extends its offer. In addition to the familiar Color Edition and Color Race models, it now features a new pack called Linea with bold, 17 inch wheels in white or glossy black with matching large stripes along the body. The Linea Pack is available on Enjoy, Sport and Cosmo.



Bestselling super-mini with enhanced engineering and top quality

The Corsa has received significant chassis improvements in 2010 for better ride comfort, enhanced steering feel and greater directional stability – all without compromising its acclaimed agility and driving fun.



Dampers, springs, anti-roll bars, the rear axle, the steering gear and the software of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) have all been revised to give Corsa greater running refinement, together with a steering and ride quality typical of a vehicle from a more expensive class. The ABS and ESPPlus systems fitted in the Corsa support the internally ventilated front disk brakes and provide additional functions: In an emergency, brake control is activated in addition to brake assist and electronic brake force distribution.



In addition to its athletic, dynamic styling and great driving fun, the Corsa also offers customers top class quality. Germany’s DEKRA Quality Report 2010 named the Corsa the overall quality winner, with the lowest defect rate of all the vehicles tested. DEKRA (Deutscher Kraftfahrzeug-Überwachungs-Verein) is an independent, full-service provider for safe and efficient mobility and Europe’s leading technical expert organization.



The Corsa is a highly popular choice throughout Europe among the small cars – or super-minis. It accounts for some 30 percent of all Opel/Vauxhall sales and is among the leaders in its segment. On average, more than 400,000 units were sold annually the last three years.



The Corsa was designed and developed in Rüsselsheim, Germany and is built in Zaragoza, Spain and Eisenach, Germany.