This feed contains the latest News Article feed items. http://www.motortorque.com/ Copyright 2013 MotorTorque All Rights Reserved. Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT http://backend.userland.com/rss Automotive Website Framework Engine (2.9.1208.1803) The Citroen DS3 Cabrio is the latest car to be featured in a glamorous music video, this time starring The Saturdays. The new 'Gentleman' music video by the Saturdays is based around the idea of trying to find the 'perfect gentleman' - George Clooney and Barack Obama being just some of the delegates referenced. Following the line "He compensates by buying you fancy cars" and after seeing a flash of some Citroen car keys, we are then treated to very prominent look at the Citroen DS3 Cabrio in the metal. FYI - the Citroen DS3 Cabrio appears from 2:18 onwards. The product placement of this music video is hardly subtle - in fact it is more obvious than the product placement for Swarovski (2:10) - but these types of videos are never subtle. We do however get to see some nice shots of the Citroen DS3 Cabrio. If you would like to see some more of the Citroen DS3 Cabrio, check out our preview. http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/citroen-ds3-cabrio-stars-alongside-the-saturdays-22344.aspx Richard Bush Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT The glitz and glamour of Hollywood, USA collided with the rural and picturesque surroundings of Carmarthen, Wales when Japanese car manufacturer Nissan handed over a unique Dark Knight Rises Juke Nismo to its lucky new owner. Residents of Carmarthen were amazed when they witnessed the famous Tumbler, from Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy, drive through their town, followed by Nissan's Batman-inspired Juke Nismo behind it. In true movie fashion, the two vehicles then took pride of place in front of Carmarthen Castle, where the keys to the unique Juke were given to the awestruck competition winner, Adam Williams. The self-confessed action film fan and local baker bagged the keys to the Dark Knight Rises Juke Nismo after taking Nissan's 'Thrill Test'. Mr. Williams commented: 'I can't believe I've won this fantastic car - it was the biggest surprise of my life and I was so excited to take delivery of it. I'll certainly turn a few heads driving around Carmarthen.' He enthusiastically remarked: 'It's great to think I'm the only person in the world with my very own version of the Batmobile!' The modified Juke Nismo was produced to celebrate Nissan's partnership with Warner Bros and the release of the third film in Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy, the Dark Knight Rises, on DVD and Blu-Ray. The Batman-inspired Juke Nismo features a host of details that are inspired by the caped crusader himself, such as a matt black paint job, aluminium Bat badges on the front grille and Bat logos/badges on the kickplates and headrests. In addition, thanks to downlighters mounted under the door mirrors, the famous Bat signal can be projected onto the floor area around the doors. Also, a clever uplighter projects the same signal onto the black headlining. Based on the new Juke Nismo, the Dark Knight Rises version features the same 197bhp, 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, as the regular model. Written by Glenn Doyle. http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/luck-of-the-welsh-baker-wins-batman-themed-juke-22343.aspx Glenn Doyle Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Jaguar launches new romantic action packed short film - Jaguar F-Type presents Desire - to promote its new F-Type sports car. Presented at the Cannes film festival earlier this year and created by Ridley Scott Associates, this 13 minute short film see's both the Jaguar F-Type and an array of film stars immersed in a Tarrantino-esque spin on a Bond film. The short film essentially follows car delivery driver Sydney Clark (Golden Globe winner Damian Lewis) from 'British Auto Deliveries', who is travelling cross country to deliver a Jaguar F-Type to a Mr Ernesto Augustan Martinez (Jordi Molla). After running in to a woman in distress (Shannyn Sossamon), who just so happens to be on the run from her husband, Mr Ernesto Augustan Martinez, Sydney finds himself hurtling around the desert in the new F-type, trying to escape the man he is supposed to be delivering the car to. Later in the short film - after the bullet flying car chase and Sydney's patriotic line "Excuse me, British! Coming through!" there is then a faceoff between Ernesto and Sydney. Sydney tries to explain that he is a delivery driver, but Ernesto replies "Shut your face, or I will rip it into pieces...you dirty shoes". Ernesto then puts a gun to Sydney's head and asks what car it is. Sydney replies with "Jaguar F-Type supercharged V8 petrol engine...automatic quick shift gearbox, 0-60 4.2 seconds, top speed of 186mph...all aluminium wishbone suspension." Slightly reminiscent of Clint Eastwood's 44 Magnum speech from Dirty Harry. But there is a twist in the tail of the story as it reaches its end... All credit goes to Jaguar for this cool short film. Even though it is more glam than informative, who cares? It's fun, high octane and even manages to feature the soundtrack 'Burning Desire' by Lana Del Rey. Read our review or watch our video on the Jaguar F-Type. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Trlv9UdIheM http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/jaguar-f-type-presents-desire-22340.aspx Richard Bush Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Peugeot has given the 508 saloon and the SW range enhanced specification including satnav on all models except 'Access' while the 'Allure' trim level features Smartbeam fully automatic lighting. The Peugeot 508 is aimed at the fleet sector of the market thanks to its executive looks and high levels of comfort. The key changes include the elimination of the 508 'SR' with enhancements to both the specification and visual appeal of 508 Access, Active, Allure (including HYbrid4 Saloon) and 'GT' models. The range-topping, distinctive and high-specification 508 RXH (with HYbrid4 diesel/electric technology) remains unchanged. The 508 'Access' model gains 16" alloy wheels and Bluetooth. Move up to the 508 'Active Navigation', this model is based on the current Active, but now equipped with 18-alloy wheels (as fitted to the 508 'Allure'), 508 'GT' style front grille, Peugeot Connect Navigation (RT6), Peugeot Connect SOS and Assistance, rear parking aid and electric folding door mirrors. The 508 'Active Navigation' specification is designed to ensure that this model covers the customer requirements of business and private customers alike who value the features previously covered by 508 'SR' and 'Active' versions. The 508 'Allure' model gains Xenon directional headlamps with Peugeot Smartbeam Assistance and headlamp washers, LED daytime running lights and front parking aid. The 508 'GT' model available with the 2.2-litre HDi 200 - now features 19-alloy wheels as standard and front parking aid sensors. Even though there has been significant changes to the trim levels the prices are broadly in-line with Peugeot's current line-up, with 508 'Access', 'Active' and 'Allure' on-the-road prices increasing by just £200, with the 508 'GT' by £400. http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/peugeot-508-gets-enhanced-equipment-levels-22339.aspx Simon McBride Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Japanese car manufacturer Nissan has revealed that it plans to recall around 841,000 vehicles in worldwide markets due to a fault with the steering wheels. In the UK alone, the company's mass recall will affect just under 140,000 models of the Nissan Micra, once one of the manufacturer's best selling models, which were built between 2002 and 2006 in Nissan's Sunderland plant. The company has said that a bolt used in the steering wheel was not properly screwed on, although there was no danger of a sudden failure. Nissan has stated that it will fix the issue by tightening the bolts or replacing the steering wheels entirely - they remarked that the repair would take about 15 minutes. A Nissan Motor GB spokesperson said: 'Over time, the nut that holds on the steering wheel can become loose. Drivers could start noticing some wobbling of the wheel and if this is ignored there is the possibility that it could come completely off. 'There have been a few incidents of steering wheels becoming loose, but there have been no accidents.' The rest of the global recalls affect Nissan's Cube model, which were produced in Japan between 2002 and 2006. The Cube is not on-sale in the UK. This is not the first time Nissan has had to recall faulty models. Earlier this month, the Japanese company had to withdraw 500,000 vehicles worldwide due to a defect in passenger airbags. Would you still trust a Nissan car? Like our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter to share your opinion. Written by Glenn Doyle. http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/nissan-to-recall-over-800000-cars-worldwide-22333.aspx Glenn Doyle Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Councillor Terry Buckle, the 73-year-old mayor of St Edmundsbury in Suffolk, went off the road and accidently drove his silver Vauxhall Vectra through the doors of his local Tesco Express store at Lawson Place, Moreton Hall, recently. Suffolk Police commented that officers were called to the store, located on the outskirts of Bury St Edmunds, at 16.35 BST after receiving a report that a car had driven into the front of the Tesco Express. It is thought that Mayor Buckle had accidently pressed his accelerator rather than the brake as he drove into a disabled parking space outside the store (similar to the one shown above). The automatic doors of the store opened as he approached, so he ended up inside the shop itself. A spokesman for the store reported that the doors of the shop were broken but no customers or staff were hurt in the incident. The East of England Ambulance Service, which arrived on the scene not long after the accident, added that the driver had no obvious injuries and was simply in shock. He was, however, taken to West Suffolk hospital as a precaution. Written by Glenn Doyle. http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/mayor-drives-car-into-a-tesco-store-22327.aspx Glenn Doyle Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Alfa Romeo has launched a limited edition 'special series' of its popular Giulietta hatchback. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta already has a chic reputation as it offers a unique stance on the road and has featured in adverts with the likes of film star Uma Thurman. Alfa Romeo is building on this popularity by boosting its appeal with a new limited edition model - the Giulietta Collezione. First appearing on the Alfa Romeo 147, the Collezione badge aims to enhance the stylish features of the Giulietta. The Italian manufacturer is priding itself on the fact that its new Giulietta Collezione is the only model in its segment to feature a contrasting two-tone roof design as standard. The Collezione model comes available in three different paint jobs - Solid Black, Alfa Red and Ghiaccio White - each offering a contrasting roof colour. The Collezione model also features darkened headlight surrounds, 17-inch Titanium alloy wheels, chrome door handles and titanium effect wing mirrors. The contrasting colour scheme continues to the interior, as there is a new black and red competizione cloth upholstery in contrast stitching. There are also, titanium finish inserts on the centre console and dashboard. There are four engines on offer in the Collezione model range, including two petrols and two diesels. The highlight in the petrol range is the 170bhp 1.4-litre MultiAir, whereas the diesel highlight is a frugal 1.6-litre unit, emitting just 114g/km and returning up to 64.2mpg. Prices for the new limited edition Alfa Romeo Giulietta Collezione range start from £18,265. http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/alfa-romeo-launches-limited-edition-giulietta-collezione-22324.aspx Richard Bush Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Mercedes-Benz has revealed pricing and specification of the new E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. Prices for the Coupe will start from £35,095 while drop-top driving in the form of the Cabriolet starts from £38,465. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet are up to 21 per cent more efficient and feature advanced technology including the introduction of the new Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera, which features two 'eyes' to produce a 3D view of up to 50-metres in front to aid many of the new or upgraded safety systems. The new E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet are available in two model lines - the SE is only available on the E 220 CDI engine while the AMG Sport is offered on three diesel engines (E 220 CDI, E 250 CDI and E 350 BlueTEC) and one petrol derivative - the E 200. Both the Coupé and Cabriolet offer a high level of equipment including COMAND Online with Media Interface, DAB digital radio, a new speed-sensitive electric power Direct Steering system that improves CO2 and fuel consumption, new partial LED headlights, Active Park Assist, Attention Assist and Collision Prevention Assist. In addition, the SE benefits from 17-inch five twin-spoke alloy wheels, a new front apron with single lamella Sport grille, leather upholstery with heated front seats and dark aluminium trim. The AMG Sport models are enhanced with 18-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, upgraded front brakes featuring branded calipers and perforated discs, new AMG bodystyling, visible twin-pipe exhaust, leather upholstery with multi-contour heated front seats, an AMG steering wheel in nappa leather with flattened bottom section and AMG floor mats. On the Cabriolet, the Aircap wind deflector automatically pops-up at speeds above 25 mph and automatically closes at speeds below 10 mph while the roof can be opened or closed in 20 seconds passwordat speeds of up to 25 mph. For new AMG Sport models, there is the option of upgrading to the AMG Sport Plus package (available from October 2013, priced at £1,795), consisting of 19-inch AMG bi-colour alloy wheels, an AMG boot spoiler in body colour, red seat belts, AMG Sports seats in Artico/Dinamica with red stitching, AMG steering wheel with red stitching, AMG floor mats with red edging and red stitching on the door panels, centre console and armrest. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé is priced from £35,095 and the Cabriolet from £38,465 and is on sale now. http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/mercedes-benz-announces-e-class-pricing-22322.aspx Simon McBride Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT Drivers beware: harsher penalties are in store for those motorists that continue to break the law - with motoring offences getting stricter. If you use your phone while driving and are caught, you will now pay more. Plus, if you are caught speeding, you're in for a special day at court. Traffic courts to be introduced It is reported that the British government wants to set-up dedicated traffic courts in order to prosecute minor motoring offenses. This will be introduced following a recent pilot scheme in nine areas. The move is part of a drive towards cutting delays in the criminal justice system, as well as freeing up magistrates' courts so that they can deal with more serious cases - as each year, around 500,000 minor motoring offences have to go through the courts. The pilot scheme for the traffic courts have been implemented in Essex, Hampshire, Kent, Lincolnshire, Metropolitan Police, Nottinghamshire, Norfolk, Suffolk and West Yorkshire, with local police saying that they had successfully 'simplified' the legal process. Planning to open a traffic court in every police area by April 2014, the Government want to implement the use of specialist prosecutors to deal with up to 160 cases per day. Cases could include speeding and traffic light offenses, as well as any problems relating to car insurance and driving licenses. Harsher penalties for phone-using drivers The transport secretary, Patrick McLoughlin, has recently revealed that fines for a variety of motoring offences, including texting or making calls on a mobile phone while driving, will increase from £60 to £90. McLoughlin indicated that the fines, which will rise by 50 per cent, are part of a move to crack down on dangerous driving. The number of penalty points that drivers can receive, however, will remain at three. The increased fines will cover fixed-penalty notices for offences including using a handheld device while driving, as well as speeding or going through a red light. In addition, the newly-priced fine will hit people who cause other careless driving offences such as cutting-up other drivers, eating or smoking behind the wheel, driving at inappropriate or reckless speeds and needlessly staying in the middle lane on a motorway. Motorists still on the road with 12-point licences After a Freedom of Information request from the Institute of Advanced Motorists was sent to the DVLA, figures revealed that over 8,000 motorists are still driving on Britain's roads despite amassing enough points on their licences to warrant a driving ban. It was revealed that courts have allowed over two-thirds of drivers, who have reached the undesirable milestone of 12 points on their licence, to carry on driving around our roads. Normally, drivers with that many points on their licence, within three years, face an automatic ban, but the DVLA records show that this is not always the case in Britain. The records also show that a total of 14 drivers in the UK have managed to amass 25 points or more on their licence. More shocking, however, is the one unnamed male, from Warrington, Cheshire, who has managed to dodge a driving ban despite have an incredible 36 points on his licence - the highest in the UK. What are your views? Do you agree with the government introducing traffic courts and higher penalties for driving offences? How shocked are you about the 8,000 drivers that have somehow managed to avoid a ban and stay on the road? Like our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter to air your views and join the discussion. Written by Glenn Doyle. http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/motorists-beware-changes-ahead-22321.aspx Glenn Doyle Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT A motorist has been told to hand herself in after she admitted knocking a cyclist over on her Twitter feed. Road rage is a common occurrence on UK roads - whether it is induced by slow changing traffic lights or someone who cuts you up when changing lanes. In the case of Emma Way however, it seems that the trigger for her road rage was cyclist Toby Hockley - who she allegedly knocked off his bike, resulting in him landing in a hedge. After the incident, Emma Way posted this on her Twitter feed - "Definitely knocked a cyclist off his bike earlier - I have right of way he doesn't even pay road tax #bloodycyclists" - she was contacted by Norwich police and told to hand herself in after they saw the message. Emma Way's tweet received hundreds of retweets and outraged responses - forcing her to delete her Twitter account. Mr Hockley responded to Ms Way's tweet with "Oh hi! That was me you hit and FYI, you didn't knock me off, I'm too hard to be hurt by a p**** micra or whatever it was you were driving." Unfortunately we see incidents like this happen every day on our roads. Hopefully motorists and cyclists will learn to ride and drive in harmony. Join the debate on our Facebook page. Do you think cyclists should pay road tax? Will motorists and cyclists ever see eye to eye? http://www.motortorque.com/car-news/motorists-tweet-has-cyclists-in-a-spin-22319.aspx Richard Bush Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT