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New car lines
publication date: Jan 21, 2010
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author/source: Robin Roberts
MINI is adding a five-door model to the family.
As a genuine Crossover, the MINI Countryman bridges the gap between the
classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle. The Countryman name was used in the original Mini estate of the 1970s. Boasting enhanced opportunities in urban mobility and beyond, the MINI
Countryman offers that unique driving pleasure so typical of MINI to
new target groups requiring extra space and flexibility. |  |
As the first
model in the MINI range with four doors and a wide-opening rear lid,
the MINI Countryman provides even greater freedom of space for truly
versatile use, a slightly elevated seating position, and optimized
driving comfort.
Full integration of the passengers within the vehicle creates that
driving experience so typical of MINI. And at the same time the MINI
Countryman maintains that go-kart feeling likewise so characteristic of
MINI, optional MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive offering an additional
highlight for the genuine connoisseur.
As an option the MINI Cooper S Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman are available with permanent MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive.
| | The MINI Countryman comes as standard with four seats, while a three-seat bench is available as a no-cost option. The interior offers superior comfort also on long distances, with
generous legroom, headroom and shoulder freedom. The rear seats move
fore-and-aft either individually or in a 60 : 40 (three-seat bench)
split, the backrests may be tilted for angle either individually or in
a 40 : 20 : 40 (three-seat bench) arrangement, increasing capacity in
the luggage compartment from 350 to 1,170 litres (12.2–41.0 cu ft). |  |
| The world premiere of the all-new Mazda5 on 2 March will be a highlight of this year's Geneva Motor Show.
The all-new Mazda5 has been designed and developed to be especially
good at meeting the needs of European families with active lifestyles.
The all-new model further evolves Mazda5's acclaimed
functionality - with rear sliding doors and up to 7-seat Karakuri
flexibility in the spacious cabin - and creates an eye-catching
exterior that is unique to the segment. |  |
The all-new Mazda5 is fitted with a newly-developed
2.0-litre DISI1 petrol engine equipped with i-stop, and a six-speed
manual transmission with gear ratios specific to this version. This new
direct-injection petrol engine offers linear and smooth performance
characteristics which ensure that it is fun to drive in the best Mazda
tradition.
The all-new Mazda5 is also one of the most frugal and
clean C-MAVs on the market, achieving approximately 15 percent
reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the 2.0-litre petrol model it
replaces. The petrol line-up also features a 1.8-litre engine with a
six-speed manual transmission.
The all-new Mazda5 will go on sale across Europe later this year. | | | | With its fourth-generation Haldex clutch four-wheel
drive, the new Škoda Superb Estate 4x4 offers award winning comfort and
safety, whatever the weather.
Available with 1.8 TSI 160bhp and
3.6 V6 260bhp petrol engines as well as the 2.0 TDI CR 170bhp diesel,
the Superb Estate 4x4 can tackle the sort of slippery conditions that
would leave its two-wheel drive competitors stranded. The system transfers torque to whichever wheels have the
most traction by taking signals from the ABS sensors, greatly
increasing driving safety in the type of snowy and icy conditions that
have gripped the UK this winter. |  |
But the Superb Estate 4x4's
capabilities aren't limited to wintery conditions. In the summer months
the 4x4 technology will ensure that pulling trailers and caravans is
easier, safer and more enjoyable than ever. And because drive to the
rear wheels is disengaged when not needed, there's little adverse
effect on fuel consumption.
Prices start at £22,420 for the Superb Estate 1.8 TSI 160bhp 4x4 SE. | | | |
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