ToyotaUk

Test Your Knowledge of the First-Ever Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

The Toyota Corolla, known for its durability, comfort, and reliability, is a popular and top-selling sedan worldwide. Now, Toyota is expanding its lineup with the introduction of the first-ever Corolla Cross Hybrid, offering customers a new choice that is sporty, innovative, and exciting to drive.

What sets this vehicle apart is its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and aligning with Toyota’s “beyond zero” vision. The brand aims to go beyond carbon neutrality by making a positive impact on the planet and society through its products, services, and operations.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid features a powerful hybrid engine and places a strong emphasis on safety and technology. It is designed to live up to the reputation of its iconic nameplate.

If you want to test or enhance your knowledge about this impressively packaged vehicle, take this quiz:

Set to debut in dealerships this June, the first-ever Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is destined to attract attention for all the right reasons.

PeugeotUk

Peugeot Updates 208 and e-208 with New Design, Powertrains, and Technologies

Peugeot has given a makeover to the 208 and e-208 models, introducing a fresh design, new powertrains, and advanced technologies for both the fully electric and petrol versions. The 208 has been the best-selling car in Europe in 2022, and these updates aim to keep it a popular choice among buyers. Orders for the new 208 and e-208 will open in October 2023.

 

When it arrives later this year, the new Peugeot 208 will bring the following enhancements:
 

  • More Allure: with a captivating sporty look featuring a modern Peugeot light signature.
  • More Emotion: with an enhanced digital Peugeot i-Cockpit® that enhances the driving experience.
  • More Excellence: with electrification at its core, including the new e-208 with a range of 248 miles (pending approval), new hybrid powertrains (HYBRID 100 and HYBRID 136), and the latest generation of Peugeot infotainment systems.

 

Since its launch at the end of 2019, over a million 208 models have been sold, with the 208 being the top-selling car in Europe in both 2021 and 2022. A significant part of this success can be attributed to the fully electric e-208, which became the best-selling electric car in the B segment in Europe in 2022.

 

Jérôme Micheron, Peugeot Product Director: “Working on an iconic and successful model like the 208 is always a challenge. Our goal was to take the design and performance of the 208 to a higher level while preserving the essence of this model to remain a leader in the B-segment sales in Europe. The new 208 is more 208 than ever: more stylish, more fun to drive, more technologically advanced, and ultimately, more irresistible.”

 

Allure: Eye-catching, Athletic Design

 

The designers at Peugeot faced the task of delivering a new level of modernity and freshness to the 208 while preserving the distinctive and alluring characteristics that have made it a success. They achieved this through the following new features:

 

  • New Peugeot Front Light Signature: Previously introduced on the 9X8 Hypercar, the new 508 and 508 SW, and most recently on the new 2008, the new Peugeot light signature now adorns the new 208 and e-208. The signature features three long vertical light claws integrated into the gloss black inserts on the bumper, adding to the car’s broader appearance.

    All new 208 models come with this new front light signature. On GT versions, this feature is even more striking, as the three light claws are integrated into the full LED headlamps using three independent optical modules.
     

  • A New Look for the Front End: All new 208 models come with a redesigned front end, showcasing Peugeot’s new logo at the center. The grille features an evolving body-colored pattern that extends into the bumper, creating a seamless look.
  • A Redesigned Rear Light Signature: The new 208 features a reinvented rear light signature with three individual red claws arranged horizontally. These elegant lines of LEDs extend across the black strip around the boot lid, giving the car a more commanding rear view and a sense of greater width. GT variants also come with LED reversing lights and indicators.
  • New Striking Colors: The new 208 and e-208 are available in seven body colors, including two new additions: Agueda Yellow (new for 208) and Selenium Grey. The other colors available are Cumulus Grey, Nera Black, Bianca White, Elixir Red, and Vertigo Blue. Additionally, all new 208 models feature gloss black door mirrors, regardless of the chosen color, while GT variants come with gloss black wheel arches as standard.
  • New Wheel Designs: The new 208 features new alloy wheel designs inspired by the new 408. The designs include 16-inch ‘NOMA’ diamond-cut two-tone wheels for ALLURE trim and 17-inch ‘YANAKA’ diamond-cut two-tone wheels with inserts for GT. All alloy wheels come with a new four-spoke center cap that prominently displays the Peugeot shield, discreetly concealing the wheel bolts.
  • New Peugeot Brand Identity: The new 208 showcases Peugeot’s updated brand identity with new lettering finished in a Basalt Grey color on the front, side, and rear nameplates. At the rear, the Peugeot lettering spans the entire width of the black panel connecting the rear LED lights. The e-208 comes with a new ‘E’ badge featuring a two-tone Dichroic and White finish.
  • Elegant New Fabrics: All trims of the 208 feature refreshed interior ambience with new fabrics and stitchings. GT models also introduce a new optional seat fabric with Black Alcantara® and Adamite Green stitching, complementing the Adamite Green stitching on the dashboard.

 

Emotion: Enhanced Peugeot i-Cockpit® for an Improved Driving Experience

 

The first-generation 208 introduced Peugeot’s iconic i-Cockpit®, which has now advanced to become more connected, ergonomic, and technologically advanced. It remains a central element of the driving pleasure offered by the new Peugeot 208 and e-208. Here are the enhancements:

 

  • New Design for the Digital Instrument Panel: The digital instrument panel is conveniently located at the driver’s eye level and features a digital display on ALLURE and GT versions. The generous 10-inch digital screen has a redesigned look and comes with a 3D display as standard on GT versions. Drivers can customize the color, layout, and presentation of the display. On ACTIVE variants, the new 208 retains an analog instrument cluster with a 3.5-inch color screen.
  • i-Connect: The 208 ALLURE and GT models now come standard with Peugeot i-Connect, which can be upgraded to i-Connect Advanced for live TomTom navigation and natural voice recognition.
  • 10-Inch Touchscreen Across All Models: A large 10-inch touchscreen is now standard on all 208 models, a significant improvement over the previous 7-inch screen. On ALLURE and GT models, the 10-inch touchscreen is upgraded to high-definition and is paired with Peugeot’s next-generation i-Connect infotainment system. The quick access toggles for features such as climate control and ADAS remain beneath the central screen for easy access.
  • Compact Steering Wheel: The compact steering wheel at the heart of the Peugeot i-Cockpit® offers agility and precision. It now features the new Peugeot shield at its center and, if applicable, the GT logo on the lower part of its rim. The controls for the multimedia system, audio, telephone, volume, and voice control are conveniently housed on the steering wheel for optimum ergonomics.
  • Dynamic Ambient Lighting on GT Versions: Drivers can choose from eight colors to set the interior ambience to suit their preferences.
  • Revised Gear Shifter Design: New 208 models equipped with PEUGEOT’s five and six-speed manual transmissions come with a redesigned gear shifter for improved ergonomics. E-208 and 208 automatic versions retain the elegant ‘e-Toggle’ design introduced last year.

 

Excellence: Taking Electrification to the Next Level

 

For the first time, Peugeot 208 customers have the choice between all-electric, hybrid, and petrol variants.

  • Improved Electric Range: The new e-208 models are equipped with Peugeot’s new 115kW (156bhp) electric motor and a 51kWh battery, offering a range of up to 248 miles between charges (WLTP certification pending approval). All e-208 models come with a standard 7.4kW single-phase charger, with an optional three-phase 11kW charger available. Rapid charging with a 100kW charger can charge the battery from 20% to 80% in less than 25 minutes, while a 7.4kW charger takes approximately 4 hours and 40 minutes.
  • New Hybrid Powertrains: The PEUGEOT 208 is now available with two new 48V Hybrid powertrains. These include the latest-generation PureTech 100bhp and 136bhp petrol engines combined with the e-DSC6 dual-clutch electrified six-speed automatic gearbox, which includes an electric motor. This technology provides extra torque at low revs and reduces fuel consumption by up to 15%. In urban driving, the new 208 HYBRID 100 and HYBRID 136 can operate in 100% zero-emission electric mode for more than 50% of the time.
  • Efficient Petrol Engines: The PEUGEOT 208 continues to offer efficient petrol engines with two options: the PureTech 75 with a five-speed manual gearbox and the PureTech 100 with a six-speed manual gearbox.

 

Technology: Added Features and Value

 

As part of the updates, Peugeot has introduced new technologies and features in the 208 and e-208 models.

 

  • More USB Sockets: The ALLURE and GT versions now come with three USB-C sockets as standard (two in the front and one in the rear) and one USB-A socket in the rear.
  • More Powerful Wireless Charging for Smartphones: GT models are equipped with a new 15W induction wireless charger for smartphones as standard, an upgrade from the previous 5W system. It is available as an option on ALLURE models.
  • High-Definition Parking Cameras: The new front and rear parking cameras on the 208 offer high-definition image quality. The 360° camera technology is also available, depending on the trim level.

Driving Aids: Comprehensive Range of Driving Assistance Technologies

 

The new 208 and e-208 are equipped with various driving assistance and safety technologies, including:

 

  • Adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function and adjustable vehicle distance settings.
  • Automatic emergency braking with collision warning: capable of detecting pedestrians and cyclists day or night, at speeds from 4mph up to 87mph (where allowed).
  • Extended road sign recognition and display on the digital instrument cluster, capable of detecting stop signs, one-way streets, and other road signs in addition to speed limit signs.
  • Active lane departure warning with lane correction.
  • Driver attention alert.
  • Blind-spot monitoring.

 

Simplified Line-up: To make it easier for customers to choose the right model, Peugeot has streamlined the choice of trims for the 208 and e-208. Both models are now available in ACTIVE, ALLURE, and GT trims.

 

  • ACTIVE variants feature the new front and rear light signatures, a 10-inch central touchscreen, and Wireless MirrorScreen technology as standard.
  • ALLURE models include 16-inch ‘NOMA’ alloy wheels, a body-colored grille, front and rear parking assistance, and electrically folding door mirrors. They also feature a 10-inch digital instrument panel, a 10-inch HD central touchscreen, and Peugeot i-Connect.
  • GT variants come with Full LED headlights, 17-inch ‘YANAKA’ alloy wheels, a high-definition reversing parking camera, Peugeot Open & Go keyless entry and start, and customizable eight-color ambient lighting.

 

News

Peugeot 208: Europe’s Best-Selling Car Gets Hybrid Powertrains and a Sportier Look

The popular Peugeot 208 has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, including the addition of two new hybrid powertrains, an enhanced exterior design, and various interior improvements.

The new hybrid options, which are also available in the facelifted Vauxhall Corsa, combine 99bhp and 134bhp petrol engines with a six-speed automatic gearbox that features an integrated 48V electric motor. This electrification results in a torque boost at low revs and a 15% increase in fuel efficiency. Peugeot claims that these hybrids operate in pure-electric mode for more than 50% of the time in urban environments.

The existing 74bhp and 99bhp petrol engines remain in the lineup, paired with a five-speed manual and a six-speed manual respectively. However, the 100bhp diesel engine has been discontinued.

The electric variant of the Peugeot 208, known as the e-208, now comes with a new 154bhp motor and a larger 51kWh battery, providing a range of 248 miles on a single charge. Peugeot asserts that the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in less than 25 minutes using a 100kW charger.

The exterior design of the Peugeot 208 has been updated to match the refreshed 508 and 2008 models. It features a more prominent tri-fang daytime running light signature, a wider front grille, and a rear light bar with three red ‘claws’ extending across the entire width of the boot.

Inside the car, a 10.0in touchscreen is now standard across all trim levels, although a high-definition panel is reserved for Allure and GT models. The distinctive i-Cockpit dashboard design remains, with a small, uniquely shaped steering wheel positioned below the instrument cluster.

A range of advanced driver assistance systems has been added to the Peugeot 208 to meet the new GSR2 safety standards set by the European Union. These include adaptive cruise control, road sign recognition, lane-keeping assistance, and an optional 360-degree parking camera.

The Peugeot 208 is available in three trim levels: Active, Allure, and GT. The price of each trim level is expected to increase slightly. Currently, the 208 starts at £20,610 for the 1.2 Puretech Active and goes up to £34,845 for the e-208 GT.

News

New 2023 Kia EV9 priced from £64,995 in the UK

The Kia EV9 is set to join the Kia EV6 crossover in dealerships by late 2023. This marks the beginning of a new design era for Kia as part of its ambitious ‘Plan S’ to introduce 13 customized EVs by 2027.

Kia’s chief brand officer, Artur Martens, emphasized the significance of the EV9 in reshaping the brand’s image and highlighted the brand’s commitment to dealer reform and expansion into new segments.

The EV9, with three rows of seating, will be the most expensive and largest Kia model to date. The base Air trim starts at £64,995 and offers the longest range of 336 miles per charge. The GT-Line and GT-Line S variants are priced at £72,495 and £75,995 respectively, while the top-of-the-line six-seat GT-Line S model costs £78,745.

The EV9 represents a significant milestone as the first Kia model entirely designed by former BMW designer Karim Habib. Habib stated that future Kia models will have obvious visual connections, while also avoiding a “Russian doll” approach to design.

The production version of the EV9 closely resembles the radical concept Kia unveiled in Los Angeles in 2021 in terms of its silhouette and design cues. However, it features a lower ride height due to a thicker battery pack and 21-inch wheels (19-inch and 20-inch options will also be available). Some of the concept car’s sharp edges have been softened. Kia refers to its design philosophy for the new EV family as “Opposites united” and describes the EV9 as a fusion of sleek, sculptural design and confident, assertive geometry.

News

Fiat Panda Set to Return in 2024 as Affordable Electric SUV

The highly anticipated comeback of the Fiat Panda is scheduled for next year, and according to Autocar, it will be a crossover designed with a “less is more” approach to compete with the Dacia Sandero.

Olivier Francois, the CEO of Fiat, hinted that the car’s grand reveal, which he described as “very special” and surprising, would likely take place on July 11, 2024, coinciding with Fiat’s 125th anniversary. The design of the revived Panda is expected to draw inspiration from the Centoventi concept introduced in 2019, which showcased a futuristic Panda-like appearance.

During discussions about the company’s plans, Francois expressed the idea of creating another B-segment vehicle to accompany the electric Fiat 600. He emphasized that this new product would cater to the “essential” category and retain the simplicity and cleverness that characterized the original Panda.

The upcoming Fiat Panda will measure approximately four meters in length and embody a “simple clever” approach, reminiscent of its predecessor. Francois stated that the car, set to be unveiled next year, would be considered cool, popular, and affordable. This positioning would make it a direct competitor to the Dacia Sandero, priced at £13,000 in the UK, assuming Fiat decides to introduce a combustion version as well.

Fiat Centoventi front quarter tracking

Nevertheless, an electric Panda is not expected to have a price lower than the Fiat 500 EV, which starts at £31,000. Francois also mentioned that the new Panda should appeal to global markets, including Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia, in addition to Europe. This indicates that the vehicle will likely share the CMP platform with the Jeep Avenger and the 600, allowing for both electric and combustion powertrains.

“We need something that perfectly suits European tastes but can also have a global appeal,” stated Francois. “And this is why I believe there is room for something in the B-segment other than the 600, which is very much focused on the European market.”

First Drive

Alpina B5 GT 2023 first drive

Alpina, a German automobile manufacturer known for its luxurious interiors and bespoke craftsmanship, will produce less than 6000 cars before BMW takes over in 2026. The future of Alpina after the transition remains uncertain, as it is unclear whether the mechanical excellence for which the company is renowned will continue to be prioritized over profits.

Out of the limited production run, only a small number will be the B5 super-saloon model. Based on the outgoing M550i, the B5 is a performance-focused car that embodies Alpina’s philosophy of being incredibly fast yet understated. It is a flagship model for the brand.

Alpina B5 GT

The current model of the B5 is a perfect blend of a supercar’s speed and a limousine’s comfort. While it may not handle like BMW’s M5, it offers excellent body control, adjustability, and precise steering. This makes it an exceptional choice for all types of driving.

Now, Alpina introduces the B5 GT, which builds upon the strengths of the regular B5 while adding some extra features. This special model serves as a final tribute to Alpina’s involvement with the G30 5 Series and the culmination of six decades of building cars based on BMW platforms.

Only 250 units of the B5 GT will be produced, primarily in Touring estate form, and all of them have already been sold. Deliveries are scheduled to start later this year, but customers who have selected the full Lavalina leather interior may have to wait until the end of 2024, as Alpina’s meticulous craftsmanship takes time.

Mechanically, the B5 GT is mostly similar to the previous B5, which is no longer available. However, it features a new intake and some electronic enhancements that increase the power output of the twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine from 612bhp to 625bhp. This makes it the most powerful car in Alpina’s history, with an official top speed of 205mph, although unofficially it can reach 220mph.

But what truly sets this car apart is its astonishing mid-range performance, especially in real-world driving situations. The torque output is exceptional, with the B5 GT producing 13% more torque than the M5 CS. With 627lb ft available from 3500rpm, it rivals the power of Aston Martin’s recent DBS 770 Ultimate.

News

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE: Replacing the C-Class and E-Class Coupes

The new Mercedes-Benz CLE will initially be available only as a coupe. However, a convertible version with an automatic multi-layered fabric hood is set to be launched later this year.

There is no information yet on the pricing for either model in the UK, but it is expected to be above £50,000.

First Ride: New Mercedes CLE

Mercedes-Benz has made the decision to replace the C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets with the CLE coupe and cabriolet models. This means that instead of four models, there will now only be two.

During an initial ride in a validation prototype with low mileage on smooth roads near the Mercedes-Benz factory in Sindelfingen, Germany, it became clear that the new CLE maintains the overall on-road character of its predecessor models.

Inside, there are numerous styling cues taken from the C-Class saloon and estate. However, the CLE coupe has a lower seating position in the front, giving it a sportier feel. Improved perceived quality can be seen in comparison to the old C-Class and E-Class coupes and cabriolets, as well as better performance of the infotainment system. The system uses the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz MBUX operating system, providing faster response times and higher resolution on new-generation displays.

In its initial configuration with a top-of-the-line six-cylinder petrol engine, the CLE coupe delivers smooth and effortless performance. The prototype also excels in mechanical refinement and effectively reduces wind noise at typical motorway speeds.

Featured

The Best Piece Uniqué Luxury Watches For The 2023 Only Watch Auction

Only Watch is an esteemed biennial charity auction event that brings together the world’s leading luxury Swiss watch brands for a noble cause – funding research against Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This high-profile event is an opportunity for horology enthusiasts and collectors to secure exclusive timepieces from prestigious brands such as Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, Richard Mille, and many more. These renowned watchmakers invest their creative genius into designing one-of-a-kind pieces, specifically for the Only Watch auction.

Participating watchmakers exemplify their commitment to philanthropy and innovation by crafting bespoke wristwatches, unique both in design and function. Showcasing the finest Swiss watchmaking craftsmanship, these brands put forward their top-tier luxury timepieces for this prestigious event. Watch aficionados worldwide are drawn to this auction, recognizing the unmatched quality and exclusivity of Swiss luxury watches, as well as the opportunity to contribute to a significant cause. Only Watch and its participating Swiss luxury watch brands epitomize the confluence of horological expertise, exclusive craftsmanship, and global philanthropy. Today, we have carefully curated a list of the best piece uniqué luxury watches revealed for the 2023 Only Watch charity auction taking place on November 5th.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Only Watch Edition

This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Only Watch Edition comes with the addition of a blue inner bezel and white gold hour-markers and hands, both filled with luminescent coating for optimum visibility in the dark. A special oscillating weight in 22K gold has also been coloured with the same blue and rhodium tones for a sleek and modern look.

Estimate: $334,000 – $390,000

Richard Mille RMS14

Codename RMS14, this piece offered to Only Watch is a tribute to this enigmatic object, a Richard Mille interpretation of what this pendent could have looked like centuries past.

Estimate: $670,000 – $890,000

Hublot MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Only Watch

The MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Only Watch represents the Art of Fusion between Hublot and the artist, by merging the exceptional know-how of the Swiss luxury watchmaker with the playful universe of Takashi Murakami. This masterpiece is crafted in sapphire and showcases a unique central tourbillon especially conceived for this watch.

Estimate: $390,000 – $450,000

Bulgari Marble

Produced as a one-off and with no equivalent in the watchmaking world, Bulgari intends to etch the 2023 edition of Only Watch in stone for all time. The green marble used for this spectacular watch, named Verde di Alpi, comes from the Aosta Valley, the natural passage linking Switzerland and Italy, though the Alps.

Estimate: $167,000 – $280,000

Piaget Polo Skeleton Arty Edition

This piece is a creative brightly colored Piaget Polo Skeleton arty edition, both artistically technical and coolly chic. Its design pays homage to the “Hexa Grace” artwork by Victor Vasarely, which is exhibited in Monaco.

Estimate: $56,000 – $89,000

Ulysse Nardin Freak S Only Watch

Freak S Only Watch is an exclusive interpretation of this timepiece. Featuring two plates, one indicating the unique edition “1/1” in place of the crown and one “Only Watch” on the opposite side, this masterpiece features Only Watch’s signature 2023 colours: red, pink, blue, green, yellow and orange tones enhance this watch, making it impressive and eye-catching.

Estimate: $178,000 – $223,000

TAG Heuer Monaco

A project that commenced immediately after the completion of Only Watch 2021, the mandate was clear: to create the most spectacular reimagining of the Monaco the brand has ever created and presenting the first mechanical split seconds chronograph for TAG Heuer.

Estimate: $167,000 – $334,000

Urwerk Space-Time Blade

Urwerk’s Space-Time Blade: Where Science-Fiction and Time telling meet in a glowing magic. Let the digits of light guide you through the Spacetime continuum, as this remarkable glass column illuminates not only the hours, minutes, and seconds but also kilometers depicting our smooth Earth travel.

Estimate: $50,000 – $89,000

De Bethune

This special edition De Bethune watch comes from the depths of time, its dial and spherical moon made of ferrous meteorite created in the crucible of the universe. For its case, Denis Flageollet got as close to nature as possible, seeking to rediscover ancestral iron and steel-making techniques.

Estimate: $245,000 – $300,000

FP Journe Chronomètre Furtif

The Chronomètre Furtif takes its name from the difficulty of reading the time if the watch is not facing you, as the blue enamel dial reveals the frosted numerals only in the reflection of light, whereas, the moon phase and power reserve indications are integrated into the movement and visible only on the back. It is, therefore, a watch whose indications can be enjoyed only by its owner.

Estimate: $223,000 – $445,000

Featured

Mansory’s New Lamborghini Urus Gleams In Gold

Mansory is a renowned aftermarket firm that specializes in customizing the most luxurious and powerful automobiles in the world. With its iconic Venatus body kit and unique wheel designs for the Urus, Mansory has made the Super SUV an extraordinary standout among exotic and luxury cars. And now, they have taken it a step further with their latest creation.

This latest Mansory Venatus Lamborghini Urus is truly a gilded creation, with its entire exterior finished in gold, specifically Bronzo Zante. One of its most striking features is the inclusion of Mansory’s new FD.15 wheels, which are the pinnacle of design at an impressive 24-inch diameter. Opening the doors reveals a lavish white leather interior, while under the hood, the engine has been boosted to a whopping 900 horsepower. With its immense power, distinct appearance, and head-turning configuration, this Mansory rendition of the Lamborghini Urus showcases the remarkable abilities of Mansory.

View All Lamborghini Urus For Sale