New Hyundai Velostar now on UK roads and Jaguar XF range expands

On the same day that the XF is announced as 'Executive Car of the Year' by BusinessCar, Jaguar has launched two new models that are set to join the award-winning line-up in the form of the SE Business and Sport editions. Paired with the recently announced 2.2-litre Diesel 163 PS output engine, the SE Business model adds satellite navigation complete with a seven inch touchscreen and HDD mapping. This is in addition to the standard
specification which includes intelligent start stop, a 400W sound system with DAB digital radio, leather and suedecloth seats and bi-Xenon headlights. The Sport model is based on the 2.2 Diesel 190 PS engine and adds the full aerodynamic pack debuted on the Diesel S. This includes a revised front bumper, a black grille element, side sill extensions, a subtle rear boot lid spoiler and a black rear valance to create an elegant yet imposing look. Inside, the Sport features half leather suedecloth seats, bond grain trim and dove contrast stitch as well as electric driver and passenger adjustment. Piano black trim with 'Sport' decals on the centre console are joined by stainless steel foot pedals. Practical additions include a heated front windscreen and front seats, a front parking aid plus a reversing camera and 60/40 folding rear seats. Both the SE Business and Sport can be ordered now with prices starting at £31,500 and £34,950 respectively.

The all-new Hyundai Veloster brings innovation to the compact coupe market with a unique 1+2 door configuration for easy rear seat access, while also delivering style, functionality and economy with a high level of standard specification. It represents a new concept in automotive design - a car that combines the style of a coupe with the practicality of a hatchback. A similar design concept was used in the Mini Clubman. Hyundai believe that Veloster will drive incremental
sales for the brand and anticipates that it will attract 20,000 customers annually across Europe, including up to 5,000 in the UK alone. Veloster is powered by a highly efficient 1.6-litre four-cylinder GDi petrol engine, generating 140 PS, driving the front wheels via the standard six-speed manual gearbox or Hyundai's first dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which is available as an option. Applying Hyundai's Blue Drive^TM technologies - incorporating Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) technology and low rolling-resistance tyres - ensures competitive CO₂ emissions from 137 g/km and combined fuel economy from 47.9mpg. On sale in the UK from the 5th January 2012, prices for the 4.22-metre long Veloster coupe start from £17,995 on the road. It is available in two derivatives - Veloster and Veloster Sport - with the option of an additional Media Pack or red leather interior, available on Veloster Sport. There are five models up to £21,745. Standard features of the Veloster include 17-inch alloy wheels, a 7-inch TFT touch screen media centre (with capability of playing games through consoles and films from smartphones), Bluetooth® connectivity with voice recognition, climate control air-conditioning, reversing sensors, front and rear fog lights and striking LED daytime running lights. The Veloster also features a stereo RDS radio/CD player with MP3/WMA compatibility and an iPod connection, with the ability to operate all functions using controls on the leather steering wheel for added convenience. The Veloster Sport benefits from 18-inch alloy wheels with colour inserts, black leather upholstery with heated front seats, a panoramic glass sunroof with tilt and slide function, cruise control, keyless entry with engine start/stop button and sporty alloy pedals. As an option on the Sport derivative, the Media Pack combines touch screen satellite navigation with a rear view parking camera, premium audio with seven speakers (including a subwoofer), and an uprated amplifier. This pack is priced at £1,100, while for an additional £300 red leather seat upholstery and front door trim panels can be specified.