The trends in car sales have changed in the new market environment.

If you’ve thought about trying to sell your car, it might be worth looking at some of the recent trends in car selling. This year, there have been a number of factors determining which cars are more popular than others which range from the economic to the environmental. If you’re looking at which people are more likely to buy the car you want to sell, looking at what’s popular and what isn’t among people looking to buy new or used cares.

As has been the case since the economic downturn, there has been a trend where people have sold larger vehicles such as estates, off-roaders and people carriers in order to downgrade to a smaller model such as a family car, saloon or hatchback. There are two main reasons behind this: lower running costs and lower taxes. People who own smaller cars pay less in tax, and as they’re smaller, they’re cheaper to run in terms of spending money on petrol.

So far this year, between 60,000 and 70,000 new cars have been sold every month in the UK, with the trends showing that sales are falling on a monthly basis. Annually, the total amount of cars bought in the UK stands at around the two million mark, which for a nation of around 60 million people hints that they’re needed and that there’s certainly an appetite for buying cars, regardless of whether they’re new or used.

In the current climate, it might seem difficult to sell cars, and when many people are tightening their belts for various reasons, selling your car could prove tricky. However, by targeting the right customer, it is possible. If, for example, you’re hoping to sell an estate car, it might be worth highlighting in any advertisement that it’s good for families and business owners, while if it’s a small car like a hatchback or a supermini, then mentioning its fuel economy and cheap running costs could help you to sell. By pitching it to the right people, you have every chance of making a sale.

As the price per gallon of fuel rises, we start to think about miles per gallon. Improvement of fuel-efficiency became a real competition, and just like athletes we’re striving for the best results. So what helps an average sportsman to become an Olympic champion? Regular trainings, diet, discipline, and little tricks that stay between an athlete and his coach. The very same things will help you boost your ride’s efficiency and save bucks at the pump. We’ll discuss everything from car accessories to driving habits that can improve fuel efficiency of your ride.

HEALTHY DIET
A sportsman’s diet is well-balanced and optimized. And if your want your ride to get a gold medal for mileage, keep in mind three ingredients of a car’s healthy diet: air, oil, gas.

The Right Gas
Using the wrong gas, you’re definitely not doing your engine a favor. Fueling a car designed to run on regular gas with premium fuel won’t improve its performance, but will surely make your wallet lose some weight. Unless it’s stated otherwise in the owner’s manual, use regular fuel. By the way, vehicles that prefer high-octane diet can digest regular unleaded gas, with some loss of performance though. So the advice is: opt for the lowest octane gasoline your ride can tolerate.

Fresh Air
Imagine an athlete who is run out of breath – that’s not an Olympic champ. A restrictive air intake and a dirty air filter can make your engine choke. A clogged air filter can actually reduce gas mileage up to 20%, especially in vehicles with a carbureted engine. Installing a high-flow air filter and a performance air intake you get extra air and an optimum air-fuel mixture that draws maximum power from each drop of fuel. If you follow this advice, you’ll get a boost of 1-2 mpg.

Optimum Oil
Believe it or not, using the right engine oil makes a difference in gas mileage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can improve fuel efficiency by 1-2% by using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of oil. And if you see a sign “Energy Conserving” on the performance symbol of the API on the bottle, keep in mind that this oil contains friction-reducing additives that improve gas economy. It is also recommended to replace oil filter at the same time you change the motor oil.

DRIVING DISCIPLINE
Driving discipline is not all about obeying state traffic code, it’s about those habits that can help improve both your daily driving and fuel efficiency.

Proper Warm-up
Take a close look at the athletes. How much time do they spend warming up? Not that long, right? Experienced athletes know that long warm-ups can sabotage race performance. The same is about your car. The longer you warm it up, the more fuel and money you waste. Yet don’t think that we advise you to turn the key and redline the engine right off. No way! We just say that you should do it wisely. Moreover, today’s vehicles don’t need much time get ready for work, 30-40 seconds will be just enough.

Forget About Idling
If you’re going to idle you engine for more than one minute, you better turn it off. It’s so easy to waste gas struggling through a traffic jam or sitting in a car and deciding where to go next. In fact, idling can use a quarter to half gallon of fuel per hour. And now think about all the time you’ve spent chatting with a neighbor or waiting for your friends while the engine was on and calculate how much money you’ve wasted. Besides, it requires less gas to restart the car than it’s being used while sitting still.

Optimize Your Trips
A good plan is half of the victory, so plan and combine your trips. If you know you have to buy groceries, go to the dry cleaner, and pick up your kid after a football practice, it won’t be such a bad idea to combine those errands. Several short trips use twice as much fuel than a long multipurpose trip. Why? You start from a cold engine and you have to cover more miles. Moreover, to optimize your route it’s better to use a GPS navigator. By showing you the shortest way, a GPS navigator will save both the time you spend on the road and the money you spend at a pump.

Don’t Pretend to be a Sprinter
Competing for the maximum fuel efficiency is similar to running a marathon. In both cases you should stick to a constant moderate speed. One of the best ways to improve your mileage is to accelerate slowly and brake over a long distance. At speeds above 60 mph, gas mileage rapidly decreases. If you do the math, you’ll find out that each 5 miles per hour you drive over 60 mph is similar to paying additional 24 cents per gallon of gas. Thus keep in mind, aggressive driving is not efficient.

Air Conditioner: Off
Get a 10-20% efficiency improvement by using an AC only when you can’t do without it. The deal is that the compressor of an air conditioner puts extra strain on the engine, which results in more gas consumed. Instead, you can open windows and breathe fresh air, at least when driving at low speeds. And if you equip your car with wind deflectors, then it’ll be possible to keep the windows slightly open even when driving on the highway.

Regular Tune-Ups
In order to win, body of an athlete must be tuned to Stradivarius precision. The same is about your ride. An expertly-tuned engine not only delivers more power but also consumes 4-8% less fuel. A performance chip for a car can be of great help here. It won’t turn your car into a hybrid, yet the boost it provides can cut your gas bill. Having a performance chip installed, you’ll save approximately 4-7 miles per gallon. Engine is not the only component that must be tuned, though. Don’t forget about the suitable tires. You can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3% by keeping them properly inflated.

The Tricks
Last but no least, here are a few tricks you can use every day in order to improve mileage of your ride. They are amazingly simple and amazingly efficient.

Keep the Weight Down
Reduce the weight of your ride as much as possible. You don’t have to get rid of the bumper or  catalytic converter. All you have to do is free your car from all the dead cargo, including the pile of the last year’s magazines and the damaged tire you keep in the trunk. You can also remove the unused components, e.g. roof racks (when not in use), and switch to lightweight alloy wheels. By dropping the weight of your ride, you can reduce your MPG by up to 2%.

Watch Your Gas Cap
It turned out that more than 140 million gallons of fuel yearly evaporate through loose caps in the USA. So it wouldn’t hurt to check the gas cap once in a while and change it in case any damage is noticed. Guess what, this simple trick can help you improve you mileage by 1-2%.

Improve the Aerodynamics
Try to keep all the cargo you have in the trunk. Those bulky bags you store on the roof cause gas-sucking drag, and make you rush to the pump earlier than you’d expect. If there is totally no space in the cabin and trunk, use an aerodynamic roof bag. And the proud owners of a truck should get a tonneau cover, because an uncovered truck bed doesn’t contribute to the aerodynamics.

That’s it. Now you have a complete system of how to maximize your gas mileage. Even if your ride is not designed to be as economically as possible, you’ll surely notice immediate changes in the fuel efficiency when regularly applying the above tips. And don’t forget, it isn’t what you drive what matters, it’s about how you drive it.

The Formula 1 cars and teams for the 2012 season.

The 2012 Formula 1 season is proving to be one of the better in recent memory.

With the first five races in the books, five different drivers have won, with Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel and Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso tied in the points standing with 61 each.

This past weekends victor was the Williams team’s Pastor Maldonado, bringing a win home for a team that has not seen the winner’s circle since 2004.

Unfortunately, the celebration was marred by a fire that broke out in the teams garage not long after the finish of the race. Thirty-one people required medical attention.

In a statement, team officials said, “The team, the fire services and the police are working to determine the root cause of the fire.”

What follows is a terrific graphic outlining some of the changes made for this season as well as some basics about each team. Click the graphic to see and read a larger version.

Image credit: Ladbrokes.com

Does this qualify as a Porsche-like moment, when the automotive public learned of the sports car manufacturer heading into the world of the SUV with the introduction of the Cayenne? Probably not. Bentley is known for their classic yet stately cars and, of course, for their correspondingly high price tag. Bentley introducing an SUV makes sense. Providing their market with another luxurious option, albeit with a taller profile and more ground clearance, is a perfect next step for the brand.

Included with this post is an interesting video on the design philosophy behind the Bentley EXP 9F. Check it out and let me know what you think. Is this a good idea for Bentley? Will it take off within their market like the Cayenne did for Porsche?

Bentley’s press release follows with more details about their SUV concept.

Bentley is offering a vision of the future with a dramatic new Sport Utility Vehicle concept, EXP 9 F, at the Geneva International Salon d’Auto. The Company’s designers and engineers have created a compelling new take on the Grand Touring Bentley – a vehicle that feels equally at home at an opera gala performance, on the sand dunes and the overtaking lane of the autobahn.

Unmistakably a Bentley – yet a Bentley like none before it – the EXP 9 F could herald a third Bentley model-line alongside the bespoke Mulsanne and the high performance Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur.

Today a global luxury brand with a network of 160 dealers from Shanghai to Beverly Hills, Bentley has an increasingly diverse customer base spanning every continent. For many customers, a dramatically styled, Bentley all-wheel drive SUV which combines a spacious, versatile cabin and commanding driving position, with Bentley’s hallmark power, performance, advanced technology and hand crafted luxury, would be a natural choice both on and off-road.

“We are very excited by the potential of a high performance, ultra-luxury Bentley SUV. We know that many Bentley customers already own SUVs, admiring their style, luxury, performance and versatility. With EXP 9 F, Bentley is making a clear statement of intent that we have both the expertise and desire to meet and exceed their expectations.” Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors.

BOLD, DYNAMIC, SPORTY DESIGN

• Key Bentley styling cues re-interpreted for EXP 9 F with innovative detailing
• Sculptured flowing surfaces emphasise power, muscularity and robustness

From a designer’s perspective, EXP 9 F was a dream project, the chance to create a completely new type of Bentley. From the very beginning, the design team had a clear vision for the new Bentley SUV, as Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design, explains:

“EXP 9 F had to represent the absolute pinnacle of the sport utility sector, setting a new benchmark for this type of vehicle. The style had to reflect Bentley’s sporting character despite its radically different package and purpose together with sculptured, flowing surfaces in keeping with the Bentley tradition.”

A new class of Bentley allowed the styling team to adopt a more progressive design approach. The exterior is a bold, dynamic statement, combining clean, muscular surfaces with signature character lines, while retaining the qualities of luxury and power – a pure Bentley.

Key Bentley cues such as the matrix grille, round lamps and the strong power-line and haunch along each flank are reinterpreted for EXP 9 F. The ‘hewn from solid’ design language and innovative detailing, emphasise the robust character of this high-luxury SUV.

The designers were inspired not only by the more functional nature of EXP 9 F but by the ‘visible engineering’ of the famous Blower Bentleys. For example, the day-time running lamp apertures also act as the charge cooler air intakes for the twin-turbo W12 engine, each with a dramatic, mesh-covered turbine fan design and ‘rifled’ inner surface finish.

The turbine theme continues with the stunning 23-inch alloy wheels, the design of which complements the sculptured coachwork. The multiple spokes are reminiscent of the shape of turbine fan blades while the centrally mounted wheel nut is a visual reference both to Bentley’s Le Mans racers of the 1920s with centre-lock spinner and to the single nut found on the modern-day Speed 8’s high-tech racing alloys.

At the rear, the swooping lines of the tailgate avoid utilitarian overtones in favour of a distinctly sporting profile, while the ultra-wide, two-part split tailgate offers a high level of versatility when grand touring. The bold design language of EXP 9 F is complemented by twin exhaust tailpipes with ‘rifled’ inner surfaces, their elliptical shapes echoing those of the rear light clusters.

The rear lights are inspired by the forms and details of fighter jet engines, uniquely designed so that they glow from within, spreading their light outwards.

INTERIOR – A FUSION OF LUXURY WITH UTILITY

• Light, airy, contemporary cabin design with exquisite British ‘sporting’ luxury craft detailing
• Contemporary use of touchscreen and tailored interface technologies
• Fresh interpretation of traditional handcrafted materials with highly durable surfaces
• High degree of practicality including versatile rear cabin layout and full-width, two-piece tailgate

Bentley is renowned for its fusion of extremes – technology and craftsmanship, luxury and performance – and the interior of EXP 9 F expresses the resolution of apparent opposites in its use of materials, techniques and technology, as Dirk van Braeckel explains:

“The challenge for the interior design team was to create a cabin which provides a blend of luxury and utility. The result is a light and airy environment with a commanding view of the road and a versatile layout which showcases Bentley’s craft and design language in an innovative and contemporary way.”

Traditional handcrafted elements such as wood, leather and polished metals such as aluminium, bronze and gunmetal are used to create a sense of British luxury, yet the way they are used sets a fresh and contemporary interior ambience. Soft-touch leather contrasts with highly durable surfaces with the concept car design experimenting with the use of saddle leather for the seat backs, top roll and loadspace – while analogue bezels and dials are paired with TFT ‘virtual’ instrumentation.

Even the luxurious silk wool floormats are reversible – with one side finished in durable, ribbed saddle leather for use when the driver and passengers are dressed for the great outdoors.

The upright dashboard design features a full-width, one-piece wood veneer with a subtly negative surface and instruments with a configurable display. Traditional Bentley ‘bulls eye’ vents have a ‘rifled’ gunmetal inner surface for a more contemporary and functional appearance. The centre console is a blend of functionality and supreme ergonomics with dynamic, architectural layers which help to create a central spine to the cabin. The frame of the console is also a structural component with integrated, sculpted grab handles.

The flowing roof design with a panoramic glass panel is inspired by the roll cages of rally cars, expressing both strength and lightness.

Rear seat passengers can chose between business mode, with generous legroom complete with fold-down keyboard and full internet connectivity via an iPad or tablet or a more reclined position with powered footrest, drinks table and an infotainment screen for movies. When the rear seats are not in use, they can be powered forward to create a larger loadspace for sports equipment or luggage.

The EXP 9 F seating is 4+1, with a rear armrest lifting to reveal a cooled compartment for champagne and glasses. Seats feature a diamond-quilted ‘shoulder line’ in soft-touch leather, echoing the traditional appearance of a British field sport jacket.

At the rear, the lower section of the two-piece tailgate may be used as a viewing bench or picnic table. Bespoke picnic hampers are stowed neatly to either side of the loadspace when not in use, but are located on rails for easy access. An awning extends over the tailgate to protect those seated there; two umbrellas fit either side of the rear luggage area for when the rain clouds sweep in.

COMMANDING DRIVING POSITION AND CONTROL ARCHITECTURE

• Inspired blend of traditional analogue and TFT touchscreen technology
• Bespoke interface engineering – tailored to the individual with driver-selectable instrumentation  modes

As befits a Bentley, the EXP 9 F design concept features a near-infinite choice of driver information and entertainment options. However the design and electrical engineering teams sought to avoid creating a cluttered or confusing driver and passenger environment, presenting only the information that each user needs, when they need it.

As a result, EXP 9 F places key driver information such as 3D navigation in a central TFT panel directly in the driver’s line of sight, where it is flanked by two analogue reverse-read dials. Meanwhile controls that are shared between driver and front seat passenger, such as cabin temperature, air vents and entertainment are presented in the central touchscreen and console. The TFT screen deploys from the full-width metal trim to provide a fully integrated extension to the glass surface of the centre console

Three different driving modes – Comfort, Sport and Off-Road – are selectable according to the road environment and type of journey. Thus the driver information TFT panel would be able to switch between satellite navigation on the motorway to a ‘sump cam’ when negotiating a bumpy track.

BENTLEY POWER AND PERFORMANCE

Although the EXP 9 F concept is based around the Bentley 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine with an 8-speed transmission, both the company’s recently-launched 4.0 litre, twin-turbocharged V8 or a hybrid drivetrain could meet the performance requirements of a pinnacle luxury SUV.

Whilst EXP 9 F is primarily intended to investigate new design territory – and all drivetrain options remain under consideration – any Bentley SUV would offer the thunderous performance the marque is renowned for.  The W12 6.0 litre powertrain, for example, could develop 600bhp and 800 Nm of torque with key performance indicators like the top speed and 0-60mph sprint time all setting new benchmarks for the SUV sector.  

EVALUATION, REFINEMENT AND FUTURE PLANNING

When the first generation Continental GT was unveiled in 2003 it represented the renaissance of Bentley as a global luxury icon, subsequent launches such as Mulsanne, Continental Flying Spur saloon and the new Continental GT have seen the Bentley brand growing from strength to strength.

EXP 9 F represents the chance to take Bentley values of design, craftsmanship and engineering excellence into what would be – literally – new terrain for the brand. Bentley’s experience with the all-wheel drive Continental range makes the concept of a Bentley SUV a natural progression for the company.

Customer and public reaction will be analysed following the unveiling of EXP 9 F at Geneva 2012, with the aim of refining the concept further. Above all, Bentley will be listening carefully to the reaction of customers and potential customers throughout the world, prior to making any definitive commitment to production.

“A Bentley Grand Tourer doesn’t necessarily have to be a coupé, a convertible or a saloon – it could equally well be an SUV. What’s important is that it should be true to Bentley’s brand values and in line with the desires and needs of our customers.” – Alasdair Stewart, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing.

Car insurance is one of those expenses that people get out of necessity and because it is illegal to drive without it but if was left up to choice, many would not bother and think that they would simply not need it. If this was the case, it would invariably end up being one of those things that you wouldn’t realise how much you needed it until it was too late. While car insurance certainly doesn’t come cheap, the cost of the repercussion of driving without insurance just doesn’t bear thinking about.

At one time, everybody who purchased car insurance by paying a lump sum for their years cover,  there are very few do this nowadays due to both the cost and the lack of disposable income, so car insurance that is paid for in monthly installments is by far the easiest and most convenient way to pay for it.

Car insurance definitely falls into the category of a ‘what if’, meaning that you have it there just in case something should go wrong. You wouldn’t, or shouldn’t, think about not having house insurance purely on the premise that it’s unlikely you will be burgled. You may not be, but you could suffer from a fire, or a flood, and replacing all those goods would stretch anyone’s finance to breaking point.

It isn’t only the price of the vehicle that is of concern when you cover yourself with car insurance, but also the passengers. If you are transporting your family around, who are effectively your most treasured possessions, and you are driving a car that is neither road worthy nor insured, the consequences simply don’t bear thinking about. If you drive a car you owe it yourself, your passengers and other drivers to have adequate car insurance.

By heading online, you can get some great quotes for motor insurance, opt for pay monthly car insurance, and be covered instantly. Times are tough economically at the moment, nobody will argue with that, and the fact that you can spread the cost of your insurance throughout the year by paying monthly instalments by direct debit means that every time you slip into your driving seat you are safe in the knowledge that you are covered for any eventuality.

Bear in mind that this is still an annual contract, and is not on a month by month basis, you are simply being allowed to spread the payments to make it more affordable. You will know in advance how much will be leaving your bank every month and on what date, so there are no nasty surprises and you can get fully comprehensive, third party and third party fire and theft on a pay monthly basis.

It takes only minutes to log onto the website of a reputable company, input your details and get a competitive quote. Should you decide to go ahead you simply click on buy, and you are instantly cover. As a new customer you may also qualify for a bonus offer, such as a couple of months free, but the best bit of all is knowing that you have covered both yourself and your family, and that is priceless.

What do you get when you cross a Nissan GT-R with a diminutive crossover? The Juke-R!

What started out as a one-off concept has grown into a bit of a sensation. Nissan has announced their Juke-R will be made available on a limited run, build-to-order basis.

The Juke-R in Dubai during filming.

Packing the powertrain from Nissan’s GT-R, the Juke-R has attracted much attention from the enthusiast community, so much so that Nissan was fielding requests for the car immediately after its launch.

The original Juke-R concept was based on the 2010 GT-R running gear. But the car delivered to buyers will take advantage of the 2012 GT-R’s parts bin, packing the cars 545 horsepower, 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged 24-valve V6 under the little crossovers bonnet. Enough to propel the Juke-R to 160 mph. Now that’s bonkers!

Gareth Dunsmore, Marketing Product Manager for the Juke, said: “The Juke-R was originally intended as a one-off concept to marry two of Nissan’s most innovative models. But the reaction we had to the car in Dubai was amazing – people were making offers for the original on the street.

“With such a strong reaction, and with three genuine offers on the table, we decided we had to make the car a reality. We can’t let down enthusiasts who are this keen to add to their collection of cars. The Juke-R has become something of a phenomenon and I’m enormously proud of the impact it has had. There will be more news to come on Juke later in the year.”

Nissan’s press release follows with more details about the cars global debut in Dubai.

LONDON, United Kingdom (Thursday, 3 May, 2012) – Nissan has announced that its innovative Juke-R crossover will be made available to buy in a very limited run on build-to-order basis.

The 3.8-litre, 160mph Juke-R made its global debut in Dubai in January this year, attracting enormous attention and, as a result, Nissan has now received firm orders for three cars to be built. Two have come from a high-profile and well-respected member of Dubai society.

Nissan will build more Juke-Rs upon request and will be taking orders in the coming four weeks, before production starts in earnest.

While the original Juke-R was based on the MY10 GT-R running gear, the run of new cars will benefit from featuring the drivetrain and chassis of the MY12 GT-R and, with the build of the first cars underway, the first three cars will be delivered to their new owners in late summer.

Gareth Dunsmore, Marketing Product Manager for the Juke, said: “The Juke-R was originally intended as a one-off concept to marry two of Nissan’s most innovative models. But the reaction we had to the car in Dubai was amazing – people were making offers for the original on the street.

“With such a strong reaction, and with three genuine offers on the table, we decided we had to make the car a reality. We can’t let down enthusiasts who are this keen to add to their collection of cars. The Juke-R has become something of a phenomenon and I’m enormously proud of the impact it has had. There will be more news to come on Juke later in the year.”

Anyone wishing to register an interest in purchasing Nissan’s most innovative Crossover yet should contact Juke-R@Nissan.co.uk.

To coincide with the announcement, Nissan is also launching a cinematic online movie today at http://www.facebook.com/NissanJukeOfficial, in which the Juke-R stars.

Desert Nemesisfollows Nissan’s inaugural GT Academy winner, Lucas Ordonez, as he takes on the world’s best supercars in a thrilling street race, reminiscent of the ‘Need for Speed’ movies.

In Desert Nemesis, award-winning film director, Rob Kaplan, captured the noise and excitement generated by the muscular Juke-R and a street race against its loudest, most acclaimed adversaries.

Weaving together the cinematic scenes of a high-production movie and raw footage of the gamer-turned-professional racer taking on the world’s most exciting, road-legal cars through the roads of Dubai’s exclusive International Marina Club, Kaplan gives us the opportunity to see the Juke-R find its place among the world’s elite.

Spaniard, Ordonez, became a professional racing driver thanks to Nissan’s hugely-innovative GT Academy partnership with Sony in 2008. He made his debut at the Le Mans 24 Hours with Nissan in 2011 and will return to La Sarthe on June 16/17 with class-winning Nissan-powered team, Greaves Motorsport.  

In the run-up to the film launch on May 3, several teaser trailers have been released through Nissan’s Facebook and YouTube channels, offering the audience ‘behind-the-scenes’ footage of one of the automotive industry’s bravest, boldest productions.

The new 2013 BMW X1 will arrive in dealers this fall. (Photos courtesy of BMW, via Newspress)

BMW continues to expand their product line into the U.S. market with the inclusion of the X1.

Scheduled to be introducing here in the fall, BMW is calling the 2013 X1 a “premium compact crossover”. This BMW joins a continually growing market segment as buyers still want the utility but just can’t bring themselves to buying a little econobox.

Who needs a 6-cylinder?
What looks interesting is the upcoming TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder that will be available in the X1. Econobox be damned…this four-pot can replace a six! This 2.0-liter will deliver 240hp at 5,000 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at an incredibly low 1,250 rpm. And the torque rating continues up to 4,800 rpm, courtesy of BMW’s latest 8-speed Steptronic automatic. Drivers should expect 0-60 times in the low six-second range.

And what about gas mileage? The two-wheel drive model, the sDrive28i, should see 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg highway. Owners of the all-wheel xDrive28i should expect 22 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg highway.

BMW xLine and Sport Line.
As alternatives to the base model, BMW has introduced the xLine and Sport Line of options for X1 owners. With front and rear fascias, side skirts, kidney grill slats finished in Titanium Silver and 18-inch Y-spoke alloys, owners will be able to add some uniqueness to their X1.

Upgrades continue inside, with entry strips bearing the lettering “BMW xLine” and a leather-wrapped multifunction sports steering wheel. Optional Nevada leather upholstery will be available with head rests featuring a distinctive embossed “X”.

In addition to the xLine, BMW will offer the Sport Line. It will feature a front and rear undertray, side skirt covers, air intakes and kidney grille slats in Black high-gloss, tailpipe finishers in Black Chrome, exclusive 18-inch double-spoke light alloys, and entry strips with “BMW Sport” lettering. Inside, the sport seats will have coral red accents, a sports leather steering wheel and gear selector lever with red stitching, interior trim in Black high-gloss finish and floor mats with red piping. You’ll have a choice of two colors for the sport seats with interior trim strips in aluminum exclusive to the Sport Line.

An M Sport package will also be available on the X1 but BMW offered no further details on what that might mean.

The 2013 X1 will arrive in dealers this fall with a starting price of $31,545.

BMW’s press release follows with further details about the X1.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 2, 2012…Having demonstrated that it is the perfect blend of sports sedan-like driving dynamics and SUV utility in markets around the world, the BMW X1 is setting out to conquer the US. The talented Sport Activity Vehicle of the premium sub-compact segment will make its US market debut armed with state-of-the-art powertrain technology, innovative features, selective design modifications and extensive interior refinements. The new 2013 BMW X1 will arrive in authorized BMW Centers in the fall of 2012 starting at an MSRP of $31,545 (including $895 Destination and Handling).

The X1 has proven to be highly successful, with sales having already exceeded 275,000. As has been the case with other models before it, the BMW X1 finds itself in a competitive market segment that it virtually spawned.  Unlike other BMW SAVs, X1s destined for the US will be built in BMW’s Leipzig, Germany plant. The popularity of the X1 around the globe has proven so great that X1s for the Chinese market will now be built in a newly opened plant at Tiexi in Shenyang Province.

The arrival of the BMW X1 to the US coincides with an update that includes exterior and interior refinements as well as a host of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies.  All models feature Brake Energy Regeneration while the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i models also benefit from Auto Start/Stop and ECO PRO mode to further reduce fuel consumption.

Another element of the update is the availability of BMW Lines for the first time in an SAV, as an alternative to the base trim level. Both the BMW xLine and BMW Sport Line offer exclusive design and equipment features. The xLine emphasizes the robust versatility of the new
BMW X1 while the Sport Line accentuates its performance and handling. For enthusiasts who want to accentuate the sporting character of their X1 even further, an M Sport Package is also available.

Design: New touches highlight its elegance, versatility and sportiness.

Typical BMW proportions, vibrant surfaces and signature BMW X model design cues shape the appearance of the X1. A sweeping hood, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment emphasize its dynamic talent, while attractive light and shade effects hint at its inherent agility. The versatility and ruggedness of a BMW X model are reflected in elements such as the black bordering at the lower edge of the body and the muscular wheel arches.

Above all, the new BMW X1 conveys even more strikingly the powerful stance that distinguishes BMW’s Sports Activity Vehicles. In the case of the X1, the look reflects the unique combination of the elevated seating position and flexible utility of an SAV with the driving dynamics of a BMW sports sedan.

In addition to the inserts in the front and rear fascia and the special side skirt covers, the circular foglamps positioned under the headlights add to the hallmark features of a BMW X model. Beyond this, the new BMW X1 boasts attractive touches of sporting luxury.

Front view: Even more details in the style of a BMW X model.

When viewed from the front, the powerful stance of the new BMW X1 on the road is immediately evident. The path of the car’s lines, which converge along the sides of the BMW kidney grille, follows the V-shaped contours of the hood, forging downwards and outwards in the lower section of the bumper to create the sweeping “X” familiar from the X1’s larger siblings. The striking lines go hand in hand with a detailed execution of the body’s surface styling, signaling a sporty character. The foglamps are now level with an extra crease line that forms a discreet scoop along the upper edge of the lights and continues into the fenders. Newly designed headlights afford a detailed view of the car’s advanced light technology. In the upper area, a chrome accent strip now cuts across the top of the twin round headlights, while an LED accent light – included as part of the optional xenon light package – ensures the classic BMW focused look. The available xenon headlights also feature LED light rings for the daytime running lights.

Side view: Characteristic proportions, new exterior mirrors.

The character line that rises steadily to the rear of the car, an additional line extending the contours of the side glass graphic as it runs rearwards, and powerfully flared wheel arches allow the BMW X1 to project a very distinctive profile. The pronounced side skirts are a signature feature of BMW X models, while the directional indicators are now integrated into the exterior mirrors.

Rear view: Focused emphasis on a wide and powerful stance.

The premium feel of the new BMW X1 is also underlined at the rear by the new subdivision of fascia, bumper and undertray. Repositioned reflectors are now bordered by surfaces painted in body color. As a result, the black plastic elements are slimmer, while the silver-colored undertray has a more striking surface structure. Furthermore, the contours of the LED taillights now flow harmoniously into the line of the tailgate handle. A stronger emphasis on the horizontal lines gives the X1 both a robust and sporty appearance.

Interior: Precise lines, high-quality materials, sophisticated color scheme.

The modifications to the design of the new BMW X1 interior create an even more vivid showcase of the sporty driving pleasure and cutting-edge versatility. The side of the center console, angled towards the driver, is now shallower and boasts a particularly high-grade surface quality. This highlights the driver-focused principle of the cockpit design. The panel for the sound and climate system controls now has a high-gloss black surface to match the air vent surround.

The new BMW X1 comes with a storage compartment in the center of the instrument panel. In vehicles with the optional navigation system, this houses the central Control Display for the iDrive operating system. Chrome accents on the side surrounds of the onboard monitor highlight this feature. High-quality electroplated surrounds for the gearshift lever and the center console cup holder as well as a chrome clip on the headlight switch add the finishing touches to the interior’s exclusive ambience.

BMW TwinPower Turbo technology: Available in four or six-cylinder form.

The BMW X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i feature BMW’s newest 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo
4-cylinder engine (N20).  This dynamic and efficient engine delivers maximum power of 240 hp at 5,000 rpm while the maximum torque of 260 lb-ft is developed at just 1,250 rpm and remains constant up to 4,800 rpm. It is mated to BMW’s latest 8-speed Steptronic automatic. This combination powers the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i from 0-60 mph in 6.2 and 6.3 seconds respectively. This level of responsiveness is matched with impressive efficiency.  Preliminary EPA mileage estimates are 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway/27 mpg combined for the X1 sDrive28i while the AWD X1 xDrive28i has preliminary EPA estimates of 22 mpg city/
30 mpg highway/25 mpg combined.

This engine is the most powerful in a new generation of 4-cylinder engines designed in accordance with the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, which aims to combine increased driving enjoyment with reduced fuel consumption and emissions. In technical terms, this
4-cylinder engine is modeled on the current multi-award-winning inline 6-cylinder with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (N55), which is the benchmark in its class for dynamic power delivery and impressive efficiency. This world-exclusive technology combines High Precision Direct Injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing with twin-scroll turbocharging.

VALVETRONIC, Double-Vanos and High Precision Direct Injection.

The combination of a high power output and a simultaneous reduction in emissions is achieved by VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos variable camshaft timing. The latest generation of the VALVETRONIC system features a faster-acting, optimized stepper motor with integrated sensor. Seamlessly variable control of intake valve lift dispenses with the need for a throttle butterfly. Instead, the air mass is controlled inside the engine, resulting in faster response. At the same time, pumping losses have been reduced to a minimum.

The excellent efficiency is also down to the High Precision Direct Injection system. Centrally positioned between the valves, solenoid injectors precisely control the supply of fuel. The fuel is injected very close to the spark plug, with a maximum injection pressure of 200 bar (2900 psi), resulting in clean and homogeneous combustion. The cooling effect of the directly injected fuel also results in a higher compression ratio than on port injection engines, bringing further efficiency improvements.

X1 xDrive35i: Exclusive to the North American market – the most dynamic X1 of all

Enthusiasts in North America will have access to the most dynamic model in the X1 line, the X1 xDrive35i featuring, BMW’s award-winning 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine (N55). The N55 has been setting standards from the start, as the pioneer of a new generation of engines in which BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing plus a twin scroll turbo made its debut. It will be mated to a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.

With a maximum power rating of 300 hp at 5,800 rpm, the 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder reflects the sporty personality of this X1 variant and helps it deliver unparalleled performance. And the high peak torque of 300 lb-ft, on stream between 1,200 and 5,000 rpm, ensures that the power is effortlessly and instantly delivered.

In order maximize available traction so as to take full advantage of its performance potential,  the X1 xDrive35i, as the name implies, will be offered exclusively with xDrive all-wheel drive. As a result, the new BMW xDrive35i can show off its prowess with a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of just 5.3 seconds. EPA mileage estimates for this model are 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway/
21 mpg combined.

Wide-ranging BMW EfficientDynamics technology, ECO PRO mode marks its debut in the BMW X1.

In line with the enhanced engines and transmissions, the new BMW X1 includes a range of technologies that boast optimized efficiency. All model variants come equipped with Brake Energy Regeneration.

An ECO PRO mode and the Auto Start-Stop function are available in the new BMW X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i models. ECO PRO provides efficiency-optimized driving with targeted adjustments to the accelerator mapping and the shift characteristics of the automatic transmission. Moreover, the output of electrically operated functions such as the seat heating, climate control system and exterior mirror heating are regulated to ensure highly efficient energy management. A special display informs the driver of the extra range gleaned through these measures.

BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system: Intelligent, fast and precise for enhanced driving pleasure.

Available with both powertrains, the new BMW X1 can transfer power to the road with the help of BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch allows the system to vary power between the front and rear wheels, thereby guaranteeing maximum traction, the highest possible safety, outstanding handling and optimal power development regardless of weather or road conditions.

By virtue of being integrated with Dynamic Stability Control, the xDrive control system is able to analyze every driving situation with great precision. It can thus counteract any tendency towards oversteer or understeer by distributing power as required before the driver is even aware of the need.

What’s more, the collaboration between xDrive and DSC enables Hill Descent Control for safe passage down an incline at an automatically regulated speed.

As a means of sharpening the handling character, the X1 xDrive28i and xDrive35i get Performance Control as part of the available M Sport Package. Performance Control helps the X1 xDrive35i maintain a more neutral handling character by adjusting the xDrive torque split to 20% front/80% rear in steady state cornering. Performance Control can also apply the inside rear brake while also applying a little more power to the outside wheel (to compensate for the additional drag of the brake) in order to help rotate the vehicle.

New for the BMW X1: The BMW xLine and BMW Sport Line.

BMW Lines are available for all models, allowing drivers to tailor their new BMW X1 with individual style based on their personal preferences. The BMW xLine allows the sturdy versatility of the sub-compact BMW X model to be emphasized. It includes undertray elements for the front and rear fascias, side skirt covers, air intake and kidney grille slats in Titanium Silver matt finish, as well as exclusive 18-inch alloys in Y-spoke design. The distinctive charisma of the new BMW X1 is also reflected in the interior, starting with entry strips bearing the lettering “BMW xLine”, a leather-wrapped multifunction sports steering wheel, as well as exclusive interior trim strips in Dark Copper high-gloss and floor mats with color-matched piping. In conjunction with the BMW xLine, optional Nevada leather upholstery is available, with the exclusive color shades Terra and Oyster which are also used on the door trim panels and the lower section of the dashboard. The head rests feature a distinctive embossed “X”. As an additional option, interior trim in Fineline Bay matt fine wood finish is available exclusively in combination with the BMW xLine.

The stand-out agility and dynamics of the new BMW X1 within the competitive environment can also be highlighted through exclusive and meticulously matched design and equipment features. Cue the BMW Sport Line, which features a front and rear undertray, side skirt covers, air intakes and kidney grille slats in Black high-gloss, tailpipe finishers in Black Chrome, exclusive 18-inch double-spoke light alloys, and entry strips with “BMW Sport” lettering. In the interior, sport seats with coral red accents, a sports leather steering wheel and gear selector lever with red stitching, interior trim in Black high-gloss finish and floor mats with red piping all contribute to an ambience that is explicitly geared to intensive driving pleasure. The leather sports seats are available in a choice of two colors, while interior trim strips in aluminum with accent line are an optional exclusive to the BMW Sport Line.

Both BMW Lines are offered as an alternative to the entry-level version. An M Sport package is also available as an option for the new BMW X1.

Solid body structure, comprehensive safety equipment.

Like all BMW X models, the new BMW X1 boasts a body with high torsional stiffness which, thanks to intelligent lightweight design, pairs extreme robustness with optimized weight. In the interests of passive safety, the impact forces in the event of an accident are diverted along several load paths, absorbed by precisely defined deformation zones and thus kept away from the stable passenger cell.

As well as front and side airbags for the front seats, standard interior equipment includes side curtain head airbags for both rows of seats, three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, belt latch limiters and belt latch tensioners in the front and ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear. All restraint systems are controlled by a central electronic system. Immediately after its market launch, the BMW X1 was awarded the maximum 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test.

Interior allows diverse uses with modern functionality.

The new BMW X1 also showcases its versatility when it comes to carrying stuff. The rear seatback can be split 40:20:40, with the three sections folding down individually or jointly according to need and can be adjusted in ten stages. The angle of tilt for the rear-seat backrest ranges from 31° – a particularly comfortable angle for passengers – all the way to a near-vertical cargo position of 1°. This facility alone means the luggage space can vary between 12.7 cubic feet (360 liters) and 17.0 cu.ft (480 liters), with a capacity of 14.8 cu. ft. (420 liters), according to European measure, when the rear seatback is in its normal position. Folding all three seat elements down fully creates a virtually flat cargo floor with a loading capacity of 47.7 cu. ft. (1,350 liters), again according to European measure. SAE volume measures are not yet available but, either way, these numbers indicate a surprising amount of cargo space for a vehicle of this size.

Two 46-inch golf bags can be stowed widthways or, after folding down the central section of the seatback, lengthwise. The through-loading aperture between the outer rear seats can also be used for two snowboards or four pairs of skis. The passenger compartment offers a wide range of storage spaces and compartments of various sizes, as well as generously sized door pockets. Additional transportation potential is opened up by roof rails and a storage compartment package.

Premium character thanks to comprehensive standard equipment and high-grade options.

The range of standard equipment on the new BMW X1 guarantees driving enjoyment and comfort at a premium level. The scope includes  automatic climate control, electrically adjustable heated exterior mirrors, foglamps, LED taillights, chrome tailpipe finishers, a multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel, an onboard computer, and a hi-fi sound system with CD player, AUX-IN connection, HD radio and a two-line display showing computer data, telephone numbers and music track titles. Other standard features include roof rails, Rain Sensing windshield wipers and automatic headlights.

Many features are standard equipment of the X1 xDrive35i which are also available on the X1 sDrive28i and xDrive28i. These include the panoramic glass sunroof, electrically adjusted front seats, Servotronic steering, Adaptive Xenon Headlights and automatic high beams.

The range of optional extras for all models includes, among other features, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and Sirius/XM satellite radio with a one-year subscription, as well Chrome-line exterior trim.

BMW ConnectedDrive, meanwhile, offers a wide choice of options for optimizing the convenience, safety and infotainment functions of the car.

Accurate and safe maneuvering is facilitated by the Driver Assistance Package which includes Park Distance Control and the rear-view camera, which relays its images live to the Control Display of the iDrive operating system.

BMW Assist, a globally unique mobility service, comprises among other features a telephone information service and the enhanced Automatic Collision Notification function with automatic detection of the vehicle location. BMW Assist with Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity is part of the Technology Package which also includes the on-board navigation system.

Other innovative technologies allow the integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones as well as music players, including the use of Internet-based services. The Apps option enables iPhone users, among other things, to receive Internet radio stations and to display Facebook and Twitter posts on the onboard monitor. With BMW Apps, iPhone users can access and listen to music streaming services like Pandora and MOG.

Other available packages include the Cold Weather Package, Lighting Package and Premium Package. The Driver Assistance Package, Premium Package and Technology Package may be order together as the Ultimate Package.

The M Sport Package is available for all models.  It consists of a Sport Suspension and 18-inch M Double-spoke wheels with mixed-sized performance tires with an available upgrade to 19-inch wheels. Interior touches include Sport Seats, an M Sport Steering Wheel, Dark Aluminum or Light Fineline Wood trim and an anthracite headliner. Exterior touches include M Aero kit, Shadowline trim, and high-gloss roof rails. The all-wheel drive X1 xDrive28i and xDrive35i models also get Performance Control as part of the package.

The BMW X1 sDrive28i and X1 xDrive28i will retail for $31,545 and $33,245 respectively while the X1 xDrive35i will start at $39,345. All prices include $895 Destination and Handling.

Car accident (Flickr photo courtesy of krauzand. Click the photo to visit his photostream.)

Motorists in the UK have been forced to deal with rising car insurance premiums in recent years, along with the higher cost of petrol, which has been driving up the cost of running a car. Yet, worryingly a trend is emerging which could push these costs up even further. Crash for cash, as it is known, is increasingly being seen as an option for cash-strapped drivers, and may also be leading to higher car insurance premiums for other motorists.

Figures compiled by the Insurance Fraud Bureau (IFB) earlier this year show that around 30,000 crash for cash incidents have been recorded in the past year, the BBC reported. The IFB explained that many of these incidents involve drivers purposefully performing unnecessary emergency stops which are intended to make other motorists crash into them. They then make claims on the innocent drivers  insurance, often including several accounts of fictitious injuries from members of the criminal gang. There is growing evidence to show that the proceeds from this type of fraud are used to fund other forms of serious crime including drug trafficking and gun running, the IFB said. Understandably the IFB has an interest in this issue. The organization currently has 24 active joint police operations spread over 15 forces and has identified a number of hotspots were the incidents are more frequent. Topping the list so far this year is Birmingham, followed by Liverpool, Blackburn, Manchester and Leeds. Both Liverpool and Blackburn appeared in the top five in 2009, with Bradford taking the top spot. However, the issue is truly a nationwide problem.

Research conducted by MoneySupermarket.com recently revealed that 15 per cent of motorists under the age of 35 would consider such a move to claim on their insurance. This type of fraud is separated into three categories by the motor insurance industry. Staged incidents involve two vehicles deliberately crashing into each other. Contrived accidents relate to crashes which never actually took place, while induced accidents, the kind deemed most common by the IFB, occur when a vehicle deliberately creates a situation where a driver will run into it.

Overall, a huge 1.7 million drivers said they would consider staging an accident, with five per cent of those aged under 35 claiming to have already done so. Insurers all deal with the issue in different ways, however anyone Swiftcover policyholders found to have committed insurance fraud which resulted in the repudiation of the entire claim will find their policy voided, and would also likely find it difficult to gain another policy. Steve Sweeney, head of car insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said:  Any motor insurance claim proved to involve an organized accident will be considered as fraudulent by an insurer, and is likely to have drastic, long-term effects on your motoring as a consequence. If found guilty, an official  fraud mark could be added to your license this will prompt your insurer to void existing cover and probably refuse you cover in the future.

Flickr photo courtesy of krauzand

Audi A8 (Photo courtesy of Auto Trader, Trader Media Group, UK)

In recent years, Audi have more or less played to their strengths, which are designing fairly good-looking yet functional cars irrespective of whether it’s a hatchback, saloon or sports car. The most recent version of the Audi A8 is one such model which typifies what the German manufacturer does best.

However, this model doesn’t stray too far from the formula which has been used with previous models, so buying a used Audi A8 from Auto Trader might be your best bet if you want to save money.

As with most top-of-the range Audis, it’s pretty expensive, but you do get a lot for your money. The most expensive model right now costs over £90,000, so it’s worth looking to used car dealers for a bargain. The car itself has everything you could possibly want from a luxury executive car: comfy seats, an array of gadgets on the dashboard, a (mostly) smooth ride and great performance.

Perhaps the best thing about the A8 is its performance. If you want your car to have more power, then your best bet is to choose any model with the 4.2 litre V8 engine as opposed to the punchy 3.0 litre V6. Models with this engine boast an impressive 369bhp, but a relatively limited 155mph is the fastest it can go. Despite that, whichever engine comes with an A8, it’s a great car for driving down a motorway en route to an important business meeting or for a weekend break in a big city. In terms of handling, this Audi is as big as a limo, but despite its size, maneuverability isn’t an issue.

Despite being cheaper than other cars in its class from the likes of Mercedes, Bentley, and BMW, it’s got all the kit you could possibly want. It’s just as comfortable, great to drive, powerful and has that premium feel you expect from Audis. Although not without its flaws, you could do worse than buy an A8, but to save money, buying used models may be the way to go.

The Peugeot 5008 is one of many popular MPVs across Europe. (Photo: Peugeot via Newspress)

Throughout the twentieth century we saw the list of uses for cars diversify beyond recognition.  We moved away from the idea of a car as merely a one-size-fits-all concept and began to develop a range of cars that could best fit the needs of a variety of individuals.  A simple glance at sites like motors.co.uk illustrates the diversity of the industry with its extensive used car listings.

Throughout the automobile’s development, we have seen some iconic designs allied with some ground-breaking ideas regarding what exactly a car should be.  The VW Camper Van is an ideal example of the motor industry diversifying their product range and in doing so, creating a classic in its own right.

The Camper Van and its American equivalents such as the RV (Recreational Vehicle) or Winnebago meant cars could actually be treated as something of a residence in which the motorist would holiday.  The free living, rootless, spirit of the road had grasped the industry.  Their popularity now seems to be subsiding as fuel costs rise.

Where modern cars may not be as flamboyant as the aforementioned vehicles, they are much more practical with models like the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) being popular across Europe.  Examples like the Peugeot 5008, Citroen Xsara Picasso, Vauxhall Meriva and the Ford Focus C-Max are readily available on motors.co.uk.

Some motorists prefer the modern luxury and comfort of a cruiser like the larger the BMW’s or the Ford Mondeo if they tend to do a lot of motorway miles. Sat Nav and cruise control can make a long journey much more bearable.
For those looking to carry more of a non-human cargo, the Fiat Mulitpla, Citroen Berlingo or Skoda Yeti can provide something that resembles a cross between a van and a practical road car.  These cars are ideal for shopping runs or maybe those into adventure sports such as surfing or cycling where you need to transport equipment.

To see which of these cars might be best suited to you, visit motors.co.uk and check out prices and specifications of many of todays vehicles including the renault clio dynamique.