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Geneva Show 2014: High-tech Lamborghini blows in

PRIDE OF PLACE on the Lamborghini stand at the Geneva Motor Show this year was taken by the brand-new Huracan supercar. Tasked with replacing the popular and long-running Gallardo, the Huracan claims to be faster, more efficient and more high-tech than its predecessor. The biggest change is a switch in the construction, which now uses a mix of aluminium and carbonfibre to create a big increase in stiffness but a lighter structure.

Maserati Alfieri concept (2014) first official pictures

By Ollie Kew First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 09:00 This beauty is the Maserati Alfieri concept. It’s a 460bhp, V8-powered coupe that points to the styling of the next GranTurismo, and Maserati’s soon-to-swell range of sports cars.With Maserati in the midst of a massive expansion programme, we’re getting used to seeing Maserati SUV concepts and diesel saloon cars at motor shows. Refreshing to see Maser take on the Porsche 911 again, isn’t it?

Alfa Romeo 4C Spider revealed: Geneva Motor Show

The Alfa Romeo 4C Spider (pictured) revealed in Geneva The Alfa Romeo 4C is the epitome of a modern ‘supercar’, with ultra light weight (for a production car) allowing the 4C to produce very good performance from its modest 17500cc engine. So producing an Spider convertible immediately raises the weight issue in a more dramatic way when the car’s abilities are so dependent on it low weight, but it seems the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider – previewed as a production car with a concept at Geneva today – has managed to keep the wight penalties of the convertible 4C down to a minimum. Thanks to a canvas roof and carbon fibre rollover bars, the weight penalty for the Spider is only about 60kg (around a 7 per cent gain) which shouldn’t hurt performance too much.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II (2014) first official pictures

By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 10:30 Rolls-Royce doesn’t facelift or revise its models quite like the rest of the world’s car manufacturers. Instead, mere mortal, you’re looking at the Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II, and the company claims, quite seriously, that the launch of this revised über-saloon ‘consolidates the Ghost’s position as the most popular car in the €200,000+ class.’ And in case you’re not feeling suitably poor or unaccomplished this morning, Rolls would like to point out this car probably isn’t for you either. Customers who’ll buy the Ghost Series II, says Rolls, are ‘the captains of industry, entrepreneurs and successful businessmen and women who are the wealth and job creators in our economies.’ Unless you’re on first name terms with the PM, you’re probably not overly familiar with the Ghost, but those who party with ‘Dave’ should be able to spot the subtle revisions, including sleeker LED headlights with daytime running lights.

Nissan Juke Nismo RS (2014) first official pictures

By Ollie Kew First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 13:45 Meet the new Nissan Juke Nismo RS. Coming to the UK this summer, it’s an updated, uprated version of the existing hot Juke, wearing the new lights of the facelifted Juke we saw earlier this week at the Geneva motor show. Given how similar it looks to a regular Nismo Juke, you might be left feeling short-changed – right up until the moment you climb inside.

Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge to use Nissan GT-R-style V6 engine (2014) first details

By Ollie Kew First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 11:30 Infiniti’s BMW 3-series rival is the new Q50 saloon. For the upcoming flagship model, Infiniti has decided to bless it with power from the class above. Yup, the Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge musters a healthy 560bhp and 442lb ft.

McLaren 650S Spider (2014) first official pictures

By Ollie Kew First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 12:00 This is the convertible version of the McLaren 650S: the 650S Spider. Given how closely the 650S coupe is based upon the 12C, it’s no surprise to see the 650S Spider looking very much like a 12C: same folding hard-top roof, same 40kg weight penalty, same boasts by McLaren that the carbon tub needs no extra reinforcing for its role in a cabriolet. Though the 650S Spider is 40kg heavier than the hard-top and has some of its P1-echoing aerodynamic talent spoiled by chopping the top off, it’s still a very fast piece of kit.

Jaguar chooses ‘XE’ name for new small sports saloon (2014)

By Ollie Kew and Phil McNamara First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 13:06 Jaguar will call its new small sports saloon ‘XE’, the company has confirmed. The new sub-XF fastback, scooped by CAR in a world exclusive earlier in 2014, will be available from early 2015, with four-cylinder engines first. Eventually, you’ll be able to choose from, rear- and four-wheel drive versions, including a 550bhp flagship hot rod.

Ukraine Crisis Could See Fuel Prices Soar

THE RAC has said that the current crisis in Ukraine will see a rise in petrol and diesel prices in the coming weeks. It said fuel traders had already begun to buy up stocks to guard against being caught out in the event of the situation worsening. Furthermore, this will cause prices to increase due to a tightening in supply.

Toyota Aygo (2014) first official pictures

By Ollie Kew First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 07:45 The new Toyota Aygo is chasing a new level of customization, like the Peugeot 108 and the Citroen C1 that it shares it platform and mechanicals with. Like it? The bold face of the Aygo is shows off the brash new hatch that’s chasing a younger audience that its French counterparts, with an interchangeable ‘X’ face that, side strakes and rear diffuser.

Geneva Show 2014: High-Tech Focus Bares All

FORD’S new Focus might have already seen the light of day, but now that the car has been given its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show the Blue Oval has released more details on its family favourite. Aside from the enhanced exterior design, key to the car’s revamp is a new suite of in-car electronics to keep you safe and entertained. The main attraction is a new version of the car maker’s Sync 2 telematics system boasting intelligent sat-nav, advanced voice control, integrated music player features and an intuitive colour touchscreen.

Porsche 919 Hybrid (2014) first official pictures

By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 07:50 This is the new Porsche 919 Hybrid, and it signals Porsche’s return to the world famous Le Mans 24-hour endurance race after an absence of 16 years. The 919 Hybrid was unveiled this morning at the 2014 Geneva motor show – and a switch from Red Bull Racing to Porsche means this is also Mark Webber’s new company car. You’d be safe taking a punt and guessing it’s not a diesel engine like arch-rivals Audi, but it’s not a naturally aspirated V8 petrol like the one that’ll feature in the new Toyota TS040 either.

Geneva Show 2014: BMW goes front-wheel-drive with 2 Series

HISTORY has been made on the BMW stand at the Geneva Motor Show as it has revealed the production version of its first front-wheel-drive car. The 2 Series Active Tourer is a compact MPV, also a new segment for the firm, and under the distinctive exterior it uses the same chassis and clever three-cylinder engine as seen in the new Mini. In doing so it becomes the first production BMW to send drive to the front wheels alone.

Geneva Show 2014: City Car Trio Get A Makeover

IT’S all change at Peugeot, Citroen and Toyota as the trio of manufacturers have simultaneously launched new versions of their popular city cars. The 108, C1 and Aygo respectively have been moved upmarket with higher quality cabins and an exterior design revamp. Keen to keep pace with the likes of Volkswagen’s acclaimed up!, all three car makers have decided to boost cabin ambience, kit and quality.

Geneva Show 2014: All Change For Renault’s Twingo

FRENCH car maker Renault is set to shake up the city car market with the third generation of its Twingo model. In a bold move, this latest Twingo adopts a rear engine and rear-wheel drive layout. Engineers believe such a plan affords the car more cabin space and, potentially, a more engaging driving experience.

Over 350,000 drivers 'at risk of £1,000 fine'

THOUSANDS of drivers risk collecting a £1,000 fine or worse by being unaware of the date their MOT expires. Research by MOTA, an independent booking provider of servicing and MOTs suggests that 43% of customers making enquiries already had an expired MOT, and 15% had no idea when their MOT was due. A car without a valid MOT being driven on the road is potentially subject to a £1,000 by the police, and also means that insurers may not pay out in the event of an accident.

Geneva Show 2014: McLaren reveals 650S Spider and Coupe

BRITISH MARQUE McLaren has expanded its supercar range at the Geneva Motor Show with the introduction of the 650S. Slotting between the 12C and the spectacular P1, the 650S comes in Coupe and Spider forms and has much in common with its siblings. The structure of the 650S is shared with the 12C, made exclusively of carbonfibre and extremely light.

Apple reveals CarPlay at Geneva 2014

Apple has announced it will reveal its new in-car iPhone system at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show this week. CarPlay is integrated into the car’s infotainment system and uses Siri to receive voice commands from the driver – such as playing music, dictating text messages or making phone calls. Apple iOS in the Car coming soon Geneva Motor Show 2014 on MSN Cars It will also be able to plot routes and give directions using Apple’s map application, as well as anticipate destinations based on recent trips.

Jeep Renegade (2014) first official pictures

By Ollie Kew First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 05:01 This is the Jeep Renegade. It’s based on the Fiat 500L, uses several of Fiat’s engines, and is built at Fiat’s Melfi plant in Italy. You’d expect, then, that it’s merely an about-town crossover in off-road fancy dress.

Geneva Show 2014: High Performance XF Wagon Roars Into Geneva

ORIGINALLY launched as a luxurious but sensible premium estate car, it was always a matter of when not if the stylish XF Sportbrake would receive Jaguar’s famed high performance makeover. The Brit car maker has exceeded expectations, as the newly christened XFR-S Sportbrake packs a considerable 542 horsepower from a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine. Tweaks to the regular car’s suspension, steering and transmission help it reach 60mph from rest in a blistering 4.6 seconds and top out at an electronically limited 186mph.

Geneva Show 2014: Mini Goes Large With Clubman Concept

FRESH from launching its all-new three-door hatch range, Mini is keeping up the pressure on its rivals by revealing a concept for its forthcoming Clubman replacement. Aside from some left-field interior design details, the big news is that the car is, well, bigger than its production predecessor. Industry sources claim this latest interpretation of the Clubman is close to being production ready, hinting at a car with more cabin and load space than before.

Mazda Hazumi concept (2014) first official pictures

By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 04 March 2014 06:00 This is the new Mazda 2 supermini, unveiled this morning at the 2014 Geneva motor show. Okay, okay, technically it’s the Mazda Hazumi concept, but the Japanese company itself openly admits this dinky little hatchback previews ‘ideas for its next-generation B-car’. Incidentally, Hazumi (no, not the cheese, but Hazumi) is apparently a Japanese word meaning ‘bound’ or ‘spring up’ so Mazda’s picked the name ‘to convey an image of a small but vigorous animal, bursting with energy.’ That’s right, and Mazda is using it to highlight its ‘Kodo’ design language, its SkyActiv fuel-saving technologies, and its MZD Connect infotainment system.

Vauxhall ADAM S gets 148bhp: Geneva Motor Show

The 148bhp Vauxhall ADAM S debuts at Geneva The Vauxhall ADAM S heading for a debt at Geneva this week may be billed a concept, but it’s a racing certainty it will turn up in a Vauxhall showroom near you before too long. With a 1.4 litre Turbo ECOTEC engine good for 148bhp, the ADAM S promises to be properly lively around town (Vauxhall hasn’t decided how quick it is to 62mph yet) and will reach 137mph if you feel the need. Thankfully, Vauxhall has also endowed the ADAM S with a performance chassis to make the most of the extra performance and tweaked the steering for more feedback.

Honda NSX Concept GT takes on Suzuka

Honda hinted at the second coming of the NSX sports car in 2011, before bringing a concept to the Detroit auto show in January of 2012. Not more than two months later, the company said it will also go racing with the hybrid all-wheel-drive supercar. This has finally come to pass: On Monday, Honda uploaded a video to its Japanese YouTube channel, showing the Honda NSX Concept-GT -- the racing version -- in action at the Suzuka Circuit.

One Lap of the Web: Ugly cars, ugly accidents, and a Motocompo for sale

-- Do you like ugly cars? Of course you do, that's why you come here to read about Ladas and the Sir Vival. Mystery Blogspotter AutoFug tears down ugly cars from concepts to Ferraris to mostly Hondas, as of recent -- even Pininfarina and its supposed plagiarism doesn't go without notice.

[Updated] Apple CarPlay set for Geneva debut

Apple is set to launch its integrated in-car iOS CarPlay at this week's Geneva motor show, partnering with Volvo, Ferrari and Mercedes. For the first time CarPlay Apple's iOS will linked directly to the car's built-in screen, with mirrored functions simplified for use while driving. Many functions are controlled by Apple's Siri voice command softwarre although if the car is fitted with a touchscreen and/or other control interfaces these can also be used.These will control major functions such as music, phone calls, iMessages and the controversial Apple Maps for navigation.

Peugeot 308 is European Car of the Year: Geneva Motor Show

Peugeot 308 is European Car of the Year The Geneva Motor Show also means the announcement of the European Car of the Year for 2014, and the gong for this year has gone to the new Peugeot 308. It took a jury of 58 journalists from 22 European countries to decide the new 308 offers such an appealing package it is a more impressive car than any of the seven finalists left in its wake. It’s a very mainstream choice from the jury, some would say a surprise too, and will no doubt please Peugeot to have their fourth COTY title after the 307 (2002), 405 (1988) and 504 (1969) were previous winners.

Fiat 500 CULT & 105HP TwinAir headline 2014 Fiat 500 updates: Geneva Motor Show

The Fiat 500 CULT (pictured) arrives to top the 500 range The revived Fiat 500 has been with us for some time as Fiat’s take on the MINI retro revival, and it’s still appealing and relevant. It’s already spawned a convertible 500, Abarth 500, 500L and the soon to arrive 500X (which will also spawn the new Jeep Renegade) and now it’s time for a bit of a minor upgrade and makeover for 2014. Headlining the new offerings for the 500 for 2014 is the arrival of the Fiat 500 CULT to top the range, taking the Lounge Spec and adding in stuff like new 16″ alloys, fixed glass sunroof, Blue&Me, Chrome detailing, rear parking sensors and leather interior.

Alfa Romeo Disco Volante returns to Geneva, this time in green and gold

Just about everyone loved the Alfa Romeo Disco Volante by Touring Superleggera that debuted at the 2012 edition of the Geneva motor show. The curvy coupe channeled the design of Alfa Romeos of the 1960s, namely the Alfa Romeo 2000 and 2600 penned by Touring, while appearing modern at the same time. The concept, finished in red at the time, drew praise for its good looks, enough to make just about everyone forget what sort of monster lived under that svelte bodywork: the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, powered by a 4.7-liter 450-hp V8 good for a 0 to 60 sprint of 4.2 seconds.

Audi TTS (2014) first official pictures

By Damion Smy First Official Pictures 03 March 2014 19:00 This is the third-generation Audi TT that’s due in showrooms by the end of 2014. While it’s a more creased, hard-edged design, it still carries the crucial curves that set tongues wagging when the first TT rocked up in 1998. It’s not as convincing as the original, is it?