Aston Martin Limited edition Aston Martin has just confirmed production of a strictly limited number of the new V12 Zagato, priced at £330,000. Orders are being taken now, but delivery will not be until summer 2012. Based on the V12 Vantage and sporting a beautifully handcrafted aluminium and carbon fibre body, the V12 Zagato offers 510 hp from its 6-litre engine. Top speed is 190 mph and the 0-60 mph time is 4.2 seconds. Of the V12 Zagato, Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Dr. Ulrich Bez, said: “Such style, exclusivity and fastidious craftsmanship ensures
it will be one of the most highly coveted models in Aston Martin’s 98-year history. A fabulous celebration of the iconic DB4GT Zagato, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, the V12 Zagato is the perfect inspiration for the next 50 years of Aston Martin.” And Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Director of Design adds: "The V12 Zagato is an elegant yet brutal design which reflects the great balance between race performance and pure Aston Martin style.“The original DB4GT Zagato was a true icon, powerful and graceful; the new design is a true representation of the spirit of DB4GT Zagato. The muscular organic forms define the thoroughbred nature of the car’s racing credentials."
VALUE-PACKED POLO Volkswagen’s Polo range now offers customers greater value for money, thanks to the addition of a new Match model which replaces the existing SE and Moda trim levels and provides £650 worth of equipment – but with a pricetag that means it costs £215 less than those models. Prices for the Polo Match start at £11,300 for the 1.2-litre 60 hp manual version. The Polo Match combines the most popular features of the existing SE and Moda trims that it replaces, while adding extra specification. Exterior highlights include stylish 15-inch ‘Castille’ alloy wheels, front fog lights and heat-insulating tinted rear windows. Comfort and convenience are the main focus inside the cabin with manual air conditioning, an RCD 310 radio / CD player, multifunction
computer and MDI (Multi Device Interface) with iPod connectivity all standard. The model is also fitted with electric windows and a comfort pack, incorporating remote central locking and electrically adjustable exterior mirrors. Standard specification includes four airbags, ABS and ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Programme). The Match is offered in three- and five-door guise, and is available with a choice of three engines. The two petrol units – a 1.2-litre threecylinder producing 60 hp and a 1.4-litre 85 hp – plus one diesel – a 1.2-litre 75 hp – are fitted with a five-speed manual transmission as standard. A seven-speed DSG option is also available with the 1.4-litre petrol engine.
Road test ALFA ROMEO GIULIETTA The UK debut last summer of the Alfa Romeo five-door Giulietta hatchback was an instant success, boosting the Italian brand’s sales overnight. Stunning head-turning styling, and a neat blend of performance, economy and practicality prompted many drivers to view this Alfa as an alternative to the likes of Focus, Astra and Golf. The Giulietta costs from £17,455, with the flagship Cloverleaf model at £25,010. There are two 1.4 petrol engine options offering 120 and 170 hp and also a 1.7 litre petrol version delivering 235 hp. Turbodiesel choices are 1.6 (105bhp) and 2.0-litre (140 and 170 hp). Specification levels are Turismo, Lusso and Veloce and Cloverleaf. First impression of the Giulietta is its charismatic styling. Although a five-door hatchback, its ‘hidden’ rear door handles give a sporty coupe appearance. And the big distinctive heart-shaped grille lets everyone know you are driving an Alfa. Inside, the cabin is attractive and classy, with a racy-looking three-spoke steering wheel and good placement of dials and switchgear. Seating is comfortable and supportive, and there are a number of useful storage compartments for small items. The bootspace offers 350 litres, fairly typical in this class. All models include electric windows and door mirrors, remote locking, anti-lock brakes, and air conditioning. The Veloce also adds sports suspension, and some extra detail features. My test model was the range-topping Cloverleaf which has lowered suspension, dark-tinted windows, eye-catching red brake callipers, and dark titanium-finish 18-inch alloy wheels among its attractions. The 1.7 litre petrol engine is smooth and responsive, delivering a top speed of 150 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 6.8 seconds. Official combined fuel consumption is 37 mpg but such is the delightful verve of this model that most drivers will probably get around 32 mpg. You just want to use that performance! Even so, this Alfa is docile in city traffic, and very quiet even at speed thanks to improved sound-deadening. On the open road, the car is supremely assured, with fluent handling and excellent balance. The lowered suspension on the Cloverleaf version can be hard of rough surfaces, but otherwise provides acceptable comfort.
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