Norton Way Corporate Magazine - January 2018

JAN.2018 ISSUE.40

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NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 40 • JAN 2018

HONDA CIVIC

TOPGEAR MAGAZINE CROWNS THE CIVIC TYPE R CAR OF THE YEAR  READ MORE HERE

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he all-new Civic Type R took the coveted TopGear awards by storm this year, stealing not one but three prestigious accolades, hot hatch of the year, international editors’ car of the year and then going on to claim the overall prize, car of the year.

The awards issue of the world’s largest and most popular monthly car magazine is an annual celebration of the best cars from around the world.

This year the search for the best cars in the world went global with the editors of all 22 international editions of the magazine voting for their favourite motors.

Similarly to the normal road going Civic, the Type R is built on home soil in Swindon. It also shares the fundamentals of the normal road car, but unlink its predecessor the FK2 which was designed as an afterthought to the road car, the all-new Type R was designed and built first, from the ground up. As a result, it puts on the most rewarding performance in the hot-hatch segment.

“The Civic Type R isn’t just the best Hot Hatch of the Year, it’s the best Car of the Year," said BBC TopGear magazine. “It’s addictive, rhythmic and devastatingly rapid; a true hero for the masses delivering accessibility and madness in one package. The thrill comes from the sheer single-mindedness of it.”

“This is absolutely outstanding to pick up three wins at the BBC TopGear magazine car of the year awards,” added Phil Webb, head of car at Honda UK. “And it is a truly global award with the international editors voting for the car as well. The kudos for picking up all three honours needs to go to the designers, the engineers and the associates at the factory that build the cars –without them none of this would have happened. This is a fantastic way to round off 2017!”.

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NISSAN BRITISH PRODUCTION OF THE NEW LEAF BEGINS

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t is official, production of the all-new second generation of the world’s bestselling electric vehicle is under way in Britain.

The first cars are beginning to roll of the production line at Nissan’s plant in Sunderland.

Customers can expect to receive their vehicles in February.

The new model has already won awards for its latest Intelligent Mobility vision and now offers a greater single charge range, dynamic design and more advanced driver assistance technologies and enhanced connectivity.

Kevin Fitzpatrick, Nissan Europe Divisional Vice President for Manufacturing, said: “Nissan led the way in introducing electric vehicles to Europe in 2011, and every year since then it’s been clear that more and more customers share our vision for the future of driving.

“We're excited to start production in Sunderland and to bring the new Nissan LEAF to Euronean markets from February.”

The new Nissan LEAF offers an improved range of 235 miles* on a single charge, allowing drivers to enjoy longer journeys, interconnected by the extended European CHAdeMO Quick Charging network.

• ProPILOT Park is the technology that parks the new LEAF with the touch of a button. This full auto-parking feature combines advanced image processing technology using four highresolution cameras and information from 12 ultrasonic sensors around the car to guide the vehicle into a space.

Cutting-edge technology in the new Nissan LEAF includes: • The new e-Pedal which allows drivers to start, accelerate, decelerate and stop the car by simply increasing or decreasing the pressure applied to the accelerator, providing more control and taking the stress out of driving.

E-pedal can hold the stop even downhill, and is made accessible as standard from entry grade.

• ProPILOT advanced driving assistance automatically controls the distance to the vehicle in front and steers the vehicle to help the driver keep LEAF centered in the lane.

These functions can significantly improve driving experience when driving on the highway in both heavy and flowing traffic.

• CES honoree for Tech for a Better World

The Nissan LEAF has been in production in the UK since 2013 for European markets, with more than 85,000 units sold in Europe since 2011, when the first deliveries began from Nissan’s Oppama plant in Japan. Following an initial investment of £420m, the introduction of the new Nissan LEAF has been supported by a further £36m investment in Nissan Sunderland Plant, supporting more than 2,000 jobs at Nissan and in the UK supply chain.

The start of production follows the new Nissan LEAF’s first major international awards last month, at the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) annual CES Unveiled ceremony in New York, presented by the Consumer Technology Association. LEAF was awarded: • CES Best of Innovation award winner for Vehicle Intelligence and Self-Driving Technology, and

In addition to the new LEAF, Nissan Sunderland Plant also manufactures the marketleading crossovers Qashqai and Juke and the Infiniti brand’s Q30 and QX30 models. Last year the plant celebrated its 30th anniversary, and this year total volume surpassed 9m vehicles, cementing its position as the biggest UK car plant of all time.

 CLICK HERE FOR THE WHOLE STORY

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SKODA

 READ MORE HERE

The race is on as UK order books open for the dynamic new Kodiaq SportLine

ŠKODA has announced pricing and specifications for the Kodiaq SportLine – the next exciting addition to the brand’s multi-awardwinning SUV range. Set to deliver a sporting edge to the line-up, the SportLine model will be offered with six different engine and transmission options to provide customers with the broadest possible choice.

First unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, the SportLine model has been created to appeal to drivers who like the dynamic look of ŠKODA’s performance models, but require the practicality of a full-size SUV with the ability to carry up to seven passengers.

Available to order from 5 December, the new SportLine models are priced from £32,685 and are positioned between the SE L and Edition models in the expanded line-up. In keeping with other SportLine models in the ŠKODA range, the Kodiaq version features a full design package that includes 20-inch Vega Anthracite alloy wheels, deeper front and rear sport bumpers. The exterior design package is completed with a number of additional black details, including the radiator grille, roof rails, door mirror housings and side window trims.

Inside, the Kodiaq SportLine gains a leather sports steering wheel, carbon effect dashboard and door inserts, along with Alcantara-trimmed sports bucket seats and door panels. An LED interior lighting pack, SportLine plaque and black trim complete the interior design package.

The Kodiaq SportLine is available with four engines; two petrol and two diesel, with power outputs ranging from 150PS to 190PS. All four are equipped with ŠKODA’s acclaimed four-wheel drive transmission as standard, with DSG gearbox fitted as standard on the 2.0 TSI 180PS and 2.0 TDI 190PS. Both the 1.4 TSI 150PS and 2.0 TDI 150PS engines are available with the choice of manual or DSG. In terms of equipment, the SportLine models build on the already generously appointed SE L specification, and feature seven seats, Columbus infotainment system with 9.2" touchscreen display and integrated Wi-Fi, electrically operated boot and Drive mode select. Among the many features exclusive to the SportLine are a colour multifunction trip computer, front parking sensors and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat.

The first deliveries of the new Kodiaq SportLine are expected in February 2018.

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KIA

A fantastic end to 2017 for Kia with numerous award wins

PHEV Manufacturer of the Year – Green Fleet Awards 2017 Kia Motors (UK) Ltd. has been awarded PHEV Manufacturer of the Year at this year’s GreenFleet Awards. Now in its thirteenth year, the annual awards celebrate the year’s achievements in improving the impact of fleet on the environment.

Steve Hicks, UK Sales Director at Kia Motors (UK) Ltd., commented on the win: “The Niro PHEV and Optima Sportswagon PHEV are great additions to both the Kia fleet and the UK alternative fuel market and we are delighted to have received this accolade from the GreenFleet Awards. Having this choice of PHEVs within the Kia range has already generated a lot of interest from fleet operators and leasing companies – it’s a very exciting time for Kia.” Kia was recognised by GreenFleet for both the all-new Optima Sportswagon PHEV and all-new Niro PHEV, introduced in September of this year.

The Optima Sportswagon PHEV has an all-electric range of up to 38 miles, whilst the Niro PHEV can travel for up to 36 miles on electric power alone.

Both models represent another big step towards Kia’s aim of reducing the average CO2 emissions of its entire range by 25 per cent by 2020.

 CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

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and the Niro Plug-In Hybrid is expected to quickly climb the electric vehicle sales charts.

For those wanting value-for-money motoring, practicality, and a plug-in powertrain, the Optima Sportswagon Plug-In Hybrid is one of the best options around. With a long electric range and load-lugging potential, Kia’s Optima estate opens up PHEV models to many buyers that need a large car but with low running costs.”

The wins this year follow on from a very successful Next Green Car Awards 2016, where the Optima PHEV was victorious in the Large Family Car segment. In this year’s shortlist, the Picanto has also been commended in the City Car category.

Steve Hicks, UK Sales Director at Kia, commented on the win: “We are thrilled to have received these awards from Next Green Car. The Niro PHEV and Optima Sportswagon PHEV are great additions to both the Kia fleet and the evergrowing UK alternative fuel market. Having this choice of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles within the Kia range has enabled us to better meet our customers’ changing needs – it’s a very exciting time for Kia.” The Next Green Car Awards recognises the very best green cars that are currently and soonto-be available. The judging is based on a number of factors, but is focused on the Next Green Car (NGC) rating, based upon real-world emissions data. This ultimately aids the judges in identifying the greenest models available.

Crossover Winner 2017 and Estate Winner 2017 – Next Green Car Awards 2017 Kia Motors (UK) Ltd. is delighted to announce two wins at the Next Green Car Awards 2017, with the all-new Niro Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) winning in the Crossover category and the all-new Optima Sportswagon PHEV winning in the Estate category.

Both launched this year, the Niro and Optima Sportswagon PHEVs are another big step towards Kia’s aim of reducing the average CO2 emissions of its entire range by 25 per cent, by 2020. The Niro PHEV can drive for up to 36 miles on electric power alone, whilst the Optima Sportswagon PHEV can travel for up to 38 miles in all-electric mode.

Next Green Car commented: “Kia is one of the market leaders in terms of PHEV electric range, and the Niro Plug-In Hybrid benefits from this focus. Throw in the fact that the PHEV technology is wrapped up in practical crossover packaging,

 CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

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NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 40 • JAN 2018

PEUGEOT ALL-NEW PEUGEOT 3008 SUV WINS BEST SUV AT CARBUYER 2018

The all-new Peugeot 3008 SUV has scooped the Best SUV award at the Carbuyer Best Car Awards 2018 for the second year in a row, as well as clinching first place in two other awards categories.

The award winning all-new 3008 SUV impressed the judging panel which praised the SUV for its excellent drive, premium design and impressive interior, particularly highlighting its state of the art PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®. The technology that makes up the i-Cockpit® offers a more intuitive and engaging driving experience, with a compact multi-function steering wheel, 12.3” head-up digital instrument display and 8.0” capacitive touchscreen with Mirror Screen®

functionality comprising of Android Auto, Apple CarPlay™ and Mirror Link®.

The goldrush continued at the Carbuyer Car Tech Awards 2018 where the all-new 3008 SUV’s satellite navigation system was awarded the highly commended prize in the Best Sat Nav category.

With the addition of these four prestigious accolades, the all-new 3008 SUV has now won 25 awards since its launch. Following the European start of sales in October 2017 it has sold over 278,000 vehicles globally and over 18,000 vehicles in the UK since January 2017. The most popular trim level is its Allure Stuart Milne, Editor at Carbuyer, said: “In a market crammed with great models, it takes 10

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something truly special to stand out in the SUV market, and that’s what the all-new Peugeot 3008 SUV does with style and grace.

“Its interior is a real highlight, with a genuine concept-car look and feel and a standard-fit i-Cockpit® digital instrument display. The all-new 3008 SUV is superbly practical, comfortable and safe, too. It also features a range of efficient engines that keep running costs down, while still remaining an excellent car to drive.”

David Peel, Managing Director at Peugeot UK, said: “For the all-new Peugeot 3008 SUV to be awarded the Best SUV for a second year in a row is an incredible achievement. In a sector that has fierce competition, the all-new 3008 SUV yet again

proved itself with a combination of practicality, refinement and high quality design.

“We’d like to thank Carbuyer for the Best 4x4 & SUVs award and the Most Economical SUV award which have both also been given to the allnew Peugeot 3008 SUV this year.”

The Carbuyer Awards recognise the best cars in the top 20 most popular car categories, as searched for by Carbuyer.co.uk users. The expert reviews team then narrow down the shortlist to arrive at a category winner where the all-new Peugeot 3008 SUV took four awards

 CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE 11

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MAZDA: ALL-NEW MAZDA MX-5 WINS BEST SPORTS CAR AT THE 2017 CARBUYER BEST CAR AWARDS The all-new retractable fastback version of the iconic MX-5, which now accounts for 62% of the UK’s MX-5 sales, has been named Best Sports Car by leading car review site carbuyer.co.uk.

The RF brings a new flavour to the MX-5 range and a new dimension of open top driving. These changes aren’t at the expense of the underlying principles that made the MX-5 such an iconic roadster over the years. Mazda are well aware that the MX-5 was and is the world’s bestselling two seater sports car for a reason, so the changes are done tastefully to give a stunning fast back silhouette with the roof up or down.

As with the Mazda MX-5 convertible, the RF is offered with both the 1.5-litre 131ps and 2.0-litre 160ps engine. All manual models powered by the 2.0-litre 160ps engine feature a limited slip differential and 17-inch wheels; while Sport Nav manual models feature Bilstein dampers and strut brace to further enhance their dynamic set up. Plus, with the introduction of the £27,295 Sport Nav Auto, the current generation of MX-5 is offered with an automatic gearbox for the first time in the UK. “With the introduction of the MX-5 RF, Mazda’s sports car has got even better. It retains all that’s great about the gorgeous, agile and entertaining MX-5 soft-top, but in Retractable Fastback guise, it’s quieter and more comfortable. Yet, despite being easier to live with day-to-day than the convertible, it’s lost none of that thrill-aminute charm that makes every journey an event”, commented Carbuyer Editor, Stuart Milne.

Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director of Mazda Motors UK said, “we’re delighted that Carbuyer has recognised the all-new Mazda MX-5 RF, this is a car that adds a unique and stylish model to our range, one that stands distinct from the MX-5 convertible, yet retains all the award-winning driver appeal our sports car is famed for.”

Adding, “with over 120,000 sales since its launch in 1990, the UK has played a huge part in the MX-5 success story. The last generation of retractable hardtop accounted for a large percentage of MX-5 sales and the all-new RF to continues this trend.”

 CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION 12

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