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The Malta Independent on Sunday. July 2017

NEW 2017 DISCOVERY... OR DISCOVERY SPORT?

WE HIGHLIGHT THE DIFFERENCES

also inside

Splendid Sardinia Coast to Coast

SARDINIA VINEYARD SPOTLIGHT SELLA & MOSCA

Riviera del Corallo

SPLENDID

SARDINIA Coast to Coast RUGGED COASTS, SMALL SEDUCTIVE BEACHES, ANCIENT FORESTS – SARDINIA’S UNTAMED LANDSCAPE, SPECTACULAR SCENERY AND LONG WINDING ROADS BEG FOR A ROAD TRIP. HERE IS A QUICK ‘COAST TO COAST’ ITINERARY, WHICH STARTING FROM CAGLIARI FOLLOWS THE WESTERN COAST.

COSTA VERDE

Sardinia Cagliari

Giants of Mont’e Prama

CAGLIARI

THE SINIS PENINSULA AND BOSA

Cagliari is the capital city of Sardinia and is known for the hilltop Castello, a medieval walled quarter situated high over the rest of the town which is built on seven hills which slope down towards the sea. Spend hours strolling through its narrow streets in the historic quarters, taking time to try delicious meals in the many small restaurants and eateries, and end up sunbathing at Poetto beach 7 kilometres of white sandy beach, the favourite destination for every native of Cagliari “Cagliaritani” all year around.

PULA AND CHIA Driving south-west for 30 km between the extensive wetlands known as “Stagno di Cagliari” and the coast of the “Golfo degli Angeli” brings you to Pula, a lively resort town with beautiful beaches and home to one of the most important archaeological sites on the island, the ancient city of Nora. Nearby Chia has a spectacular coastline with sand dunes and wetlands, and beautiful beaches including Campana, Cala Cipolla, Spiaggia del Morto and Su Giudeu.

Past Cape Spartivento, the southernmost point of the island, you can drive up the coast following the spectacular scenic road stopping at Tuerredda, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean and, further along, Porto Pino, famous for its extensive dunes. The Sulcis area is splendidly unspoilt, its gem being the Costa Verde which includes pristine nature, uncrowded beaches and breath-taking views. The Costa Verde, also known as Marina di Arbus extends for approximately 50 km from Capo Pecora and Portixeddu, in the south to Capo Frasca in the north.

THE COSTA SMERALDA, OGLIASTRA, COSTA REI AND VILLASIMIUS Driving east from Alghero brings you to Castelsardo and Santa Teresa di Gallura and then Costa Smeralda. The SS125 is a panoramic road

Costa Verde, Sardinia

leading through the Supramonte which will bring you to the Ogliastra area, a gem of fascinating traditions and natural beauty set between sea and mountains. Ogliastra boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, nature paradises to be reached by boat or long treks including Cala Goloritzè, Cala Mariolu,

Cala Biriola and Cala Luna. Leaving Ogliastra, slightly more than an hour’s drive towards the south along the Orientale Sarda will bring you to Costa Rei and further south to Villasimius, the pearl of southern Sardinia with some of the most spectacular stretches of coast on the island with the Marine Protected Area of Capo Carbonara.

Following the fine coastal road bordering the Costa Verde brings you to the Sinis Peninsula, a Marine Protected Area offering fine quartz sand beaches such as Maimoni and Is Arutas. This area is home to quaint villages which once served as film locations for Westerns, and also ancient Phoenician cities (Tharros) and archaeological giant stone statues (the Giants of Mont’e Prama). Within an hour you can also reach Bosa, set on the banks of the river Temo.

ALGHERO AND THE CORAL RIVIERA Driving north from Bosa winds along the coast you will reach Alghero in less than an hour, a fortified town with a charming old town. An enclave of Catalan language and culture, this “little Barcelona” is set against a typical Sardinian backdrop: the Riviera del Corallo is marked by sandy bays and rocky promontories with splendid beaches and caves. July 2017 | motoring 03

SARDINIA VINEYARD SPOTLIGHT

Sella & Mosca

Cannonau di Sardegna Riserva

IN ITALY AND ELSEWHERE IN EUROPE, WINE CONNOISSEURS AND INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS RATE SELLA & MOSCA AMONG ITALY'S MOST OUTSTANDING WINE ESTATES. SELLA & MOSCA’S I PIANI ESTATE IN SARDINIA CONSTITUTES THE SECOND LARGEST CONTIGUOUS VINEYARD IN ITALY AND COUNTS ITSELF AMONG THE COUNTRY'S MOST IMPRESSIVE WINERIES. SITUATED IN THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SARDINIA, JUST INLAND FROM THE PRETTY, HISTORIC PORT OF ALGHERO, THIS 1,600-ACRE PROPERTY WITH MORE THAN 1,200 ACRES OF VINES IS ONE OF THE LARGEST WINE ESTATES IN EUROPE.

ABOUT SELLA & MOSCA

1899

ella & Mosca was founded in 1899 by Messrs. Sella and Mosca, two Piedmontese businessmen respected to this day for their prominent roles in the Risorgimento (Italy's 19thcentury unification movement). As Sardinia's foremost wine producer, Sella & Mosca is renowned for premium wines made exclusively from estategrown grapes. In addition to native varieties such as Vermentino, Torbato and Cannonau, the winery has successfully pioneered the introduction of international grape varieties, notably Cabernet Sauvignon. Its brands include Torbato,Terre Bianche and Cannonau and, among premium wines, the red wines Marchese di Villamarina DOC and Tanca Farrà DOC, and the white wines Monteoro and Vermentino di Gallura DOCG.

ABOUT THE WINERY

Based in Sardinia

Surrounded by landscaped gardens and a profusion of flowering oleanders, the estate winery features multiple tasting rooms, an expertly designed enoteca and a fascinating exhibit showcasing replicas of archaeological finds unearthed on the estate and now housed in museums. Each year, especially during the summer months, the estate attracts visitors from all over Europe, who come to see this spectacular property for themselves. 04 motoring | July 2017

Estate Grown

International and native grape varieties used to make Sella & Mosca wines are exclusviely estate-grown. Cannonau di Sardegna Riserva. The grapes are harvested manually and mechanically in late autumn and undergo fermentation in stainless steel vats for fifteen days and then aged two years in large Slavonian oak barrels with an additional several months in bottle. COLOUR: Initially dark, ruby red, during maturation it loses intensity and takes on a warmer tone. NOSE: Mesmerizing scent,

RATED BY WINE CONNOISSEURS AND INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS AMONG ITALY’S MOST OUTSTANDING WINE ESTATES.

La Cala Vermentino

Marchese di Villamarina

redolent of violets. PALATE: Warm, dry, and harmonious with plumy fruit flavors and an aristocratic oak overtone. La Cala Vermentino. A favorite of the jet set at Sardinia's chic resorts, La Cala is the ultimate definition of the Vermentino grape. It is romantically named for a small, secluded cove fringed by violetcolored thistles on the edge of the Sella & Mosca estate. Few wines rival La Cala for its exceptional affinity with seafood, thanks to the very subtle presence of a natural marine salinity in the wine, credited to the Mediterranean location of Sella & Mosca's Vermentino vineyards. After harvest, selected grape bunches are exposed to the warm autumnal sunlight and undergo a brief, natural drying process. Following a gentle pressing, the juices are vinified under temperaturecontrolled conditions. COLOUR: Pale straw with tints of lemon- green. NOSE: Very intense with notes of citrus.

Delightful, floral. PALATE: Crisp and dry with youthful vitality and freshness. Marchese di Villamarina. At tastings and contests in Europe and beyond, this super-premium Cabernet Sauvignon from Sardinia has taken critics by storm. In 1994 it made a spectacular debut, when it won the hotly contested category of Italian Reds for the Future at the 10th Annual Wine Challenge hosted by Wine, a top U.K. wine publication; rivals included Tuscany's Sassicaia. Successive vintages have gone on to earn an extraordinary collection of no less than 13 Tre Bicchiere designations from Gambero Rosso, Italy's most influential wine magazine. The grapes are harvested manually and mechanically in late Autumn and fermented for two weeks in stainless steel vats. Aging: The

wine is matured 18 months in small French oak casks, followed by a further 12 months in large oak barrels. COLOUR: Rich, majestic red. NOSE: Intense and mellow with remarkable red fruit fragrances. PALATE: Classic flavors of Cabernet with accents of vanilla, black currant, soft wood tannins with a lingering finish. Plan a visit. Visit Sella & Mosca: Località I Piani, Alghero. Call +39 079 997719. Locally Sella & Mosca Wines are imported by Attard and Co and available from Sistina Wine & Co., The Strand Gzira. Opening hours: 10am till late. WEB: www.sistinawineco.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/ sistinawineco TEL: 2131 4161

S NEW PANAMERA PRODUCTION LAUNCH OF THE

SPORT TURISMO

eries production of the new Panamera Sport Turismo has started at the Porsche plant in Leipzig. The first customer vehicles successfully completed the production process in the body shop, paint shop and in assembly. This process has been specially adapted to the new model. “This launch confirms Leipzig’s leading role in the production of highly complex model and technology variants. As the winner of the J.D. Power Award, the plant is known for its outstanding production quality worldwide and its optimal mix of workshop manufacturing and series production”, says Gerd Rupp, Chair of the Executive Board at Porsche Leipzig GmbH. Porsche expanded the Leipzig site by putting a body shop for the new Panamera model range into operation last year as a completely new production

facility. The EUR 500 million investment also included a brand new quality centre that provides crucial support during the start of production for new models. It also safeguards the stringent quality requirements of Porsche and manages the transition from the development stage to series production. The Panamera Sport Turismo celebrated its world première at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2017. Based on the successful sports saloon, the new version once again makes a profound statement in the luxury segment with its unmistakeable design. At the same time, the Sport Turismo, with up to 404 kW/550 hp, is more versatile than any other model in its class. With a large tailgate, low loading edge, increased luggage compartment volume and a 4+1 seating concept, the new Panamera model offers the perfect combination of everyday usability and maximum flexibility.

July 2017 | motoring 05

NEW 2017 DISCOVERY ... OR DISCOVERY SPORT? WE HIGHLIGHT THE DIFFERENCES

REVIEW AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN PEEL

eing asked to test drive a Land Rover Discovery is a thrill in itself but this call was to test drive both the latest, larger 2017 Discovery, and its similar in shape yet smaller all round sibling the Discovery Sport, on the same day. They share nearly the same name and overall looks so the idea was to highlight the differences. To further enhance the tests we also invited a female colleague that drives a large SUV on a regular basis to hear and compare her experience. For a luxury SUV that handles adventure the 2017 Land Rover Discovery and Discovery Sport are two sides of the same coin. Choosing the best one is a matter of matching your needs, lifestyle, and pockets. Ready for action, the Discovery Sport can handle the trail almost as well as the regular Discovery. 06 motoring | July 2017

Capable of fording 23 inches of water, it also boasts excellent departure and approach angles for maximum flexibility. A ninespeed automatic transmission permits maximum low-speed torque for off-roading. The 2017 Land Rover Discovery has a gas-powered, supercharged V-6 and at its most capable, the Discovery can tow 3,700kg. An eight-speed automatic helps you get the most out of the engineâ€™s power outlay that at once feels significantly more powerful than the 2.0lt Sport's engine. Wading depth is 33.4 inches, and the approach angles are even tighter than the Discovery Sport. Ground clearance is 8.6 inches (front) and 8.9 inches (rear). No off-road, let alone wading depths were experienced during these tests for obvious reasons and solely focused on what's different. The Land Rover Discovery Sport replaced the popular Freelander 2 SUV in 2014, and

has gone on to become one of the companyâ€™s bestselling models. It is based on the more expensive Range Rover Evoque, only with a new design of rear suspension that creates more room in the back. In contrast the top of the range Discovery is based on a Range Rover platform, but is now considerably lighter than the model it replaces. Offered in SE, and HSE Luxury editions, the Discovery Sport allows you to personalize the look with special customizations. The Sport has a spacious cabin where five adults have more than ample space. The Discovery adds the option of seven seats as standard on three rows making it ideal for larger families apart from having massive legroom in the middle, 3 seat row. An array of luxury starts with the SE edition, including leather seats and an 8-inch touch screen. Climbing the trim ladder, grained leather or Windsor leather becomes standard. The Meridian

Sound system places 16 speakers around the cabin. Power-fold mirrors that nicely lower to kerb level every time reverse is selected, approach lights, and rain-sensing windshield wipers are among the many standard exterior features. Like the Sport, the Discovery has an aerodynamic build that look pretty similar from different angles yet is distinguished by its boxier rear end and larger dimensions all round. Both are built similarly yet everything looks grander in the larger Discovery, and while the Sport is by no means a small vehicle the Discovery is certainly more spacious. Both fall into the luxury SUV range but the HSE Discovery available to us also sported twin electric panoramic roofs that let in plenty of light making it feel even more spacious. After driving both models for the best part of a morning I tend to favour the smaller Discovery Sport. Its size is more suited to

some of our narrower roads, it is perfect for five adults yet also has the option of two extra rear seats. Inside it feels somewhat cosier and being narrower the gap between the driver and passenger is not as super wide as on the larger car. Once behind the wheel the similarities are once again noticed especially down the central console with the circular drive selector that rises once the engines are started. The main differences here are the Discovery's chunkier steering wheel and the massive 10.2 inch InControl Touch Pro infotainment screen on our HSE model (8 inch with S and SE trim). Access also seemed easier, as the Discovery has an extra external side step which unless used makes it awkward to step over. Looks wise it is definitely the sportier of the pair with its lower roofline and stylish rear end, on the other hand the Discovery not only gives the impression of grandeur but also looks imposing with its wider, longer, and higher build. It can be the perfect family car, the luxurious cruiser and with its different terrain settings the off-roading hero all in one day. My driving companion, a mother of a young family juggling with two car seats on a daily basis was more impressed with the cars’ interior dimensions. In her view both cars offered even more space than her own generously sized SUV. The neater seating design and elegant interior were her first positive impressions. With young children and a hectic lifestyle every inch of space is a bonus and she welcomed the fact that a passenger could easily fit between two cars seats on the back seat on the Discovery Sport, with the larger Discovery offering even more space.

As far as styles go she described the larger Discovery as looking more masculine than the Sport, and loved the very low set rear seat base, making them more ideal to get in and out of whilst struggling to buckle up the kids in their respective car seats. Loving larger cars in general the Discovery would have been her choice yet agrees that when rushing to and from everyday errands the Sport version is more ideal for parking issues. Both provided her with a reassuringly safe driving experience and provided the ultimate in comfort, budget aside the Discovery would be her choice as ‘definitely the more stylish and convenient ride for a big family’. Final overall thoughts: Choosing between the two is always going to involve budget as it is no secret that the Discovery is right up there with the most luxurious Range Rover models whilst the Sport settles in a bracket alongside the Range Rover Evoque and now superceded Freelander 2. The Sport version would suit most buyers with its different trim versions and competitive pricing due to its more user friendly size and stylish design. It also provides the option of having 7 seats should it be a consideration, yet will not match the Discovery's standard 7-seat layout inside a larger bodyshell. The larger Disco, with its distinctive rear end still looks arguably, a lovely SUV on the road, the interior is surely as luxurious as any expectations, it is comfortable and smart, as well as life-swallowingly practical and the driving experience is fit to deal with almost anything you can throw at it. It’s far from being a cheap car, but it’s also ready to be the only one you'll ever want or need. July 2017 | motoring 07

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT CONVERTIBLE

GALENE EDITION BY MULLINER: INSPIRED BY THE FINEST LUXURY YACHTS • NEW, LIMITED EDITION OF THE CONTINENTAL GT CONVERTIBLE BY MULLINER • INSPIRED BY LUXURY YACHTING • SOPHISTICATED MARITIME OPULENCE AND EXQUISITE MATERIAL DETAILING • MULLINER INTRODUCES PINSTRIPE WALNUT, A NEW BESPOKE WOOD FINISH • LIMITED EDITION NAMED AFTER THE GREEK GODDESS OF CALM SEAS, GALENE • JAUME VILARDELL HANDPAINTED ILLUSTRATION ADORNS FRONT FASCIA PANEL • LIMITED TO JUST 30 EXAMPLES WORLDWIDE

entley Motors just announced the new Bentley Continental GT Convertible Galene Edition by Mulliner, inspired by luxury yachts. Bentley’s bespoke commissioning division, Mulliner, has created the ultimate edition of the Continental GT Convertible in collaboration with British yacht experts, Princess Yachts, and takes inspiration from yacht design. Defined by brilliant Glacier White and Sequin Blue hues externally, and inspired by the clean, confident design lines and materials of yachts internally, the Galene Edition by Mulliner combines the best elements of an oceanic lifestyle with luxury

convertible motoring. It is powered by Bentley’s refined 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 powerplant, with 507 PS and 660 Nm and benefits from Bentley’s elegant, four-layered retractable hood which keeps occupants in the same unruffled environment that the hard-top Continental GT coupe provides.

The external design of the new Continental GT Convertible Galene Edition by Mulliner captures the iridescent sparkle of crystal clear waters. Painted in pristine Glacier White, with a matching bodywork kit, the Galene Edition is specified with lower brightware

in Sequin Blue, a timeless detail and elegant reminder of the life aquatic. A dark blue hood and striking 21” polished Propeller Wheels complete Mulliner’s external signature on the Galene Edition.

INSPIRED BY LUXURY YACHTS, CREATED BY MULLINER The interior of the Continental GT Convertible Galene Edition pays homage to the classic opulence, finest hand-crafted materials and exquisite details that are championed both by yachts and Bentley cars. The seats are in Linen and Portland hides with Camel hand cross stitching, the door panels are Linen, Portland and Brunel. Linen, Brunel and Camel accentuate the dashboard, centre console and armrests, whilst the steering wheel is Linen and Brunel with a Camel 12 o’clock stripe.The detailed

THE EXTERNAL DESIGN OF THE NEW CONTINENTAL GT CONVERTIBLE GALENE EDITION BY MULLINER CAPTURES THE IRIDESCENT SPARKLE OF CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS headrest embroidery is in Camel and the Glacier White stowage case is exquisitely lined in Brunel Alcantara. The Glacier White external paintwork is echoed inside, in the stowage case and fascia panels, which can be specified with a unique handpainted Jaume Vilardell illustration of a super

yacht alongside the Mulliner script in each car. It also coats the clock bezel in the Galene Edition, creating an interior space full of light and luxury.

PINSTRIPE WALNUT: COMMISSIONED FOR THE GALENE EDITION Inspired by the timeless appeal of sophisticated yacht design, Mulliner has created a new material finish – Pinstripe Walnut – for the Galene Edition. This distinctive surface is used in open-pore form, for a more authentic, natural finish, in the centre stack and console. A Pinstripe Walnut insert also adds a note of understated elegance to the bespoke illuminated treadplates in the Galene Edition, and lines the boot floor, creating a striking harmony with the rest of this graceful series, limited to just 30 examples worldwide, by Mulliner.

THE NEW HYUNDAI i40 IN MALTA

A BOLDER AND MORE MATURE MODEL yundai’s new i40 model is now in Malta and available for viewing and test drives at the Hyundai showroom in Psaila Street B’Kara. The Hyundai i40 is a car that confirms Hyundai as a mature brand that has what it takes to target the demographics it wants. The i40 sports a bold and stylish new look that is more than skin deep. Featuring new cutting-edge technology, upgrades in engine performance and efficiency, plenty of space and premium quality materials throughout, it’s a car that works for every part of your life. Plus Hyundai’s industry-leading 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty guarantees full peace of mind. On the inside, the environment is spacious and uncluttered. Every aspect has been carefully considered to provide you with a highly refined driving experience. From premium quality surfaces to fine seat fabric, you’ll see, feel and experience excellence throughout. In fact, whether it’s the feel of quality surfaces, the amount of space or clever features, the i40 offers a number of ways to make your driving environment as relaxed and tranquil as possible. Hyundai engineers have also used special sound absorption materials and precision aerodynamics to reduce engine and road noise. The result is a

08 motoring | July 2017

quiet, serene and uncluttered cabin every time you climb aboard. New i40 offers sleek good looks with a sporty, sophisticated air. Its fluidic sculpture styling blends a dynamic, streamlined profile with subtle curves, sharp creases and eye-catching exterior features. Every New i40 features intricately styled alloy wheels, from 16” to the top-of-the-range 18”, dependent on trim and transmission. For enhanced visibility during daylight hours and an extra touch of style, striking LED daytime running lights sit neatly above the headlights, while distinctive LED

front fog lights feature on GLS trim variants and above. When it comes to technology, the new i40 is packed with useful and clever tech, like voice-activated Bluetooth® helping the driver to keep in touch with colleagues, family and friends – while also streaming music from a compatible device. Satellite navigation (supporting Malta maps), parking camera and DAB digital radio are also available. As with all Hyundai’s models, safety remains of utmost importance, so a comprehensive array of safety features

have been included as standard across the range. For example, Access and Comfort trim levels offer front, front side, driver’s knee and full-length curtain airbags – 7 in total, while Premium and Luxury trim levels also featuring rear side airbags for extra protection. For further information visit the Hyundai showroom in Valley Road B’Kara call on 22692201 or 22692202, log on our /HundaiMalta FB page or send an email on hyundaisales@motorsinc.com.mt

Mercedes-Benz Onyx G6 GLE Coupe

Range Rover Evoque

Lamborghini Huracan

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE SCORES AS MOST POPULAR PREMIERSHIP FOOTBALLER’S CAR • EVOQUE COMES TOP OF A LEAGUE TABLE OF LUXURY CARS BOUGHT BY FOOTBALLERS, COMPILED BY PREMIUM VEHICLE FINANCE EXPERTS JBR CAPITAL • IN ADDITION TO THE EVOQUE, THE TOP 10 IS DOMINATED BY SUPERCARS AND HIGH-END MODELS, FEATURING TWO LAMBORGHINIS, THE MCLAREN 675LT, FERRARI F12 AND PORSCHE 911, AS WELL AS BESPOKE AND COACHBUILT SUVS SUCH AS THE MERCEDES-BENZ ONYX G6 GLE COUPE • FOOTBALLERS INCREASINGLY BUYING CARS ON FINANCE FOR REASONS OF FLEXIBILITY

hey may earn an average salary of £2.4m* a year but the most popular car for a premiership footballer is the Range Rover Evoque, a compact SUV which costs from around £30,000.Yet whatever the purchase, footballers are increasingly using finance to do it. That’s according to a new list compiled by premium vehicle finance provider JBR Capital, which can count a wide variety of high net worth individuals as its clients, including premiership players. It has put together a top 10 of the most popular cars purchased on finance by premiership players over the last two years. While the relatively affordable Evoque finishes in first place, the top 10 shows that players don’t hold back when it comes to filling their garages with dream machines, with the rest of the line-up chock full of supercars, luxury cars and even bespoke creations from aftermarket coachbuilders and tuning companies: 1.Range Rover Evoque 2.Lamborghini Aventador 3.Mercedes-Benz Onyx G6 GLE Coupe

4.Bentley Continental GT 5.Ferrari F12 Berlinetta 6.Lamborghini Huracan 7.Jeep Wrangler Kahn Sahara 8.Porsche 911 GTS 9.Bentley Bentayga 10. McLaren 675LT Spider With enormous means at their disposal, it won’t come as a surprise to learn that JBR Capital found that players each own several cars on the list – such as an Evoque and an Aventador – but what will raise eyebrows is that finance is an increasingly important way to fund purchases. Darren Selig, CEO and Co-Founder at JBR Capital, explained: “The highest-earning premiership players can bring in six-figure salaries each week and could buy many of the cars on this list easily without finance, but like regular motorists, it pays to be smart and they are increasingly savvy in their financial affairs. “Footballers want the monthly cost of the loan to be as low as possible, so they can remain flexible. They would rather spend large sums on investments such as property, and do not want to over-extend their budget with

outright purchases. They also generally run finance deals from 2 to 4 years, as these allow them the most flexibility.” Arranging finance involves paying an initial deposit and then making regular monthly payments, taking advantage of highly competitive rates. At the end of the term, the customer can then choose to pay the final balloon payment and own the car outright or refinance to buy another. According to JBR Capital’s research, it’s the latter that premiership footballers invariably choose. Footballers also need a fast turnaround. If they see a car, they want to buy it almost immediately – and a highly specialist finance provider such as JBR Capital offers them this facility, paying out very large sums of money quickly. Loaning large sums of money to sportspeople can often be more difficult than it looks, though. “Many finance companies don’t loan to footballers given the up and down nature of their business,” added Selig. “It’s a cutthroat world and your contract could be torn up at any moment. The flipside to that, of course, is that you could find yourself with a new contract with a club in Spain or Germany – so again you need the flexibility that finance provides. “We ensure loans are affordable and meet a player’s unique needs. We don’t use a ‘cookie cutter’ approach like some lenders, so can work with each client directly and tailor the finance package appropriately. But whether it’s a Range Rover Evoque, a Ferrari F12 or a Bentley Bentayga, for a premiership footballer, finance just works.” JBR Capital is the UK’s only independent finance provider dedicated to high end vehicle finance for supercars, classic, prestige, historic and racing cars. Finance options include hire purchase, lease purchase, equity release, refinance, auction finance and restoration finance.

July 2017 | motoring 09

GONE IN 44 SECONDS: NEW JAGUAR XJR575 HOSTS 186MPH INTERVIEW Jaguar designer Wayne Burgess answers questions at top speed to mark launch of new performance saloon

aguar has launched the new XJR575 with a high-speed interview starring designer Wayne Burgess being questioned by TV presenter and race driver Amanda Stretton as the performance saloon accelerates from 0-186mph. Lasting just 44 seconds – the time it takes Jaguar’s fastest-ever XJ saloon to reach its top speed – Burgess gave a quick-fire insight into the development of the potent new model. The high velocity interview was almost over before it began, but the unrelenting acceleration of the new XJ flagship did not stop Burgess, Production Studio Director and SVO Projects Director at Jaguar, from providing

• JAGUAR XJR575 HAS MORE POWER THAN ANY PREVIOUS XJ WITH A TOP SPEED OF 186 MPH • PERFORMANCE SALOON ACCELERATES FROM 0-62MPH (100KM/H) IN JUST 4.4 SECONDS – AND FROM 0-186MPH IN 44 SECONDS • 5.0-LITRE V8 SUPERCHARGED ENGINE PRODUCES 700NM OF TORQUE a unique take on the performance saloon. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/UFPIi-bNc4 “I have done plenty of short interviews in my time, but nothing quite like this! It might have been a bit of fun but doesn’t it just demonstrate perfectly the extreme performance of the new XJR575. I could barely finish answering those quick-fire questions before we hit 186mph and then it was all over! Can we go again?”

range with power up from 550PS to 575PS, delivering 0-62mph (100 km/h) in just 4.4 seconds. Jaguar Land Rover’s 5.0-litre V8 supercharged engine also provides 700Nm of torque, providing the new addition to the range with effortless acceleration and refinement. Customers will be able to choose between two bespoke exterior colour finishes created

by Special Vehicle Operations – Velocity Blue and Satin Corris Grey – while additional tailormade exterior details include a rear spoiler, side sills, front bumper and lower air intakes featuring gloss black surrounds. Updated exterior badging and twin bonnet louvres mark the vehicle out from the rest of the range, as do the red brake callipers that accompany the 20-

WAYNE BURGESS, PRODUCTION STUDIO DIRECTOR AND SVO PROJECTS, JAGUAR

inch Farallon gloss-black wheels. Bespoke embossed tread plates alongside intaglio and diamondquilted seating add a final flourish to the XJR575’s interior. “This is a performance vehicle, but that doesn’t mean we have had to cut any corners when it comes to comfort or design. Jaguar is the standard bearer for interior refinement and the XJR575 is no different. It can go very quickly, but it does so with the serene comfort customers expect from a Jaguar saloon. That makes this a very special car indeed.”

IAN CALLUM, DIRECTOR OF DESIGN, JAGUAR

The XJR575 is manufactured at Jaguar Land Rover's Castle Bromwich plant alongside the XE, XF, F-TYPE and XJ model lines.

The XJR575 is the new performance flagship for the XJ

MITSUBISHI MOTORS PARTNERS THE UK’S FIRST MULTI-BRAND EV SHOWROOM itsubishi Motors in the UK has been announced as one of the founding partners of the UK’s first multibrand EV showroom. Located in a 4,000 sq ft state-ofthe-art showroom at Milton Keynes’ centre:mk, the Electric Vehicle Experience Centre (EVEC) will open its doors to the public on Saturday 22 July. As a founding partner, Mitsubishi Motors will join five other manufacturers in showcasing a range of current electric and plugin hybrid vehicles. Visitors will be able to discuss all elements of owning and running an electric vehicle, as well as having the option to test a range of cars on local roads. Mitsubishi Motors will have the Outlander PHEV on show and available for test drive. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offers the best pure EV range of any of its direct competitors and has the lowest emissions of any

10 motoring | July 2017

all-wheel drive plug-in vehicle. It is also the only plug-in AWD vehicle to utilise electric power to drive both front and rear wheels for superior traction both on and off the road even in pure electric mode. It is also the only Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle to offer rapid charging (up to 80% in approximately 25 minutes) and five-mode adjustable regenerative braking, which is controlled via the steering wheel paddles to further enhance the driving experience. Managed by Chargemaster and funded by Milton Keynes’ Go Ultra Low City scheme, the EVEC has been established to increase the number of EVs sold in the area. Milton Keynes’ target is for 23 per cent of all new cars registered locally to be electric by 2021. David Martell, Chief Executive of Chargemaster said, “Opening the Electric Vehicle Experience Centre on 22 July will be a landmark day, not only for the electric vehicle sector, but also for Milton Keynes

New Dacia Sandero Laureate

residents. Becoming the UK’s first multi-brand EV showroom, it will provide a destination for visitors to make an informed decision about owning an EV, without the pressure of having to make an immediate purchase decision. We are delighted to receive the

support from six key electric vehicle manufacturers as founding partners of the EVEC.” Lance Bradley, Managing Director, Mitsubishi Motors in the UK, said: “We are delighted to support the Electric Vehicle Experience Centre in Milton

Keynes.This initiative will help raise the awareness of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles even further, and the information, advice and test drives offered through the centre will show local customers how easily an EV could fit into their lifestyle.”

WHERE KIDS ARE NUMBER ONE... TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN WRITES PAUL VELLA, RMF TECHNICAL DIRECTOR.

New Dacia Logan MCV Laureate

The summer holidays are here and many families will be packing for longer trips or weekends away as they set off to enjoy and travel. This week’s tips give advice on driving with children. • Be patient. Sometimes children can drive parents potty but it is important to remain calm and keep them entertained. Playing games whilst travelling and keeping them occupied is always a recipe for success

New Dacia Sandero Laureate

NEW SANDERO AND NEW LOGAN MCV UPDATES

BORED CHILDREN IN THE BACK SEATS CAN BE ONE OF THE BIGGEST DISTRACTIONS WHEN DRIVING. A LITTLE PLANNING AND PREPARATION CAN GO A LONG WAY. MAKE SURE YOUR CAR HAS PLENTY OF FUEL AND IS FIT FOR THE JOURNEY AS IT GIVES YOU ONE LESS THING TO WORRY ABOUT.

• Make sure all their tech is working before you set off. A flat battery on a phone can be major disaster for today’s connected kids • Pack for success. Make sure you have a food bag with goodies for the best behaved but avoid too much sugar. Fruit and water are best. Also carry wet wipes and spare clothes that are easy to access within the car • The right car seats will keep your children safe and comfortable. Make sure yours is also set up according to the latest legislation. • Know your journey. The worst thing is being lost with a grumpy child in the back. Know the correct stop-off points so you know when you can take breaks, so the children can get out and stretch their legs • Children need regular stops – never go more than two hours without a stop. For very young babies too long in a car seat can be stressful, so factor this in when you plan your journey • Set off early. Travelling long distances with little ones can be nightmare. If you set off early and take your time as opposed to rushing to your destination the journey will be miles smoother. But, remember driving when you would normally be asleep is a risk factor, so make sure you are fully awake by taking frequent breaks and sharing the driving Bored children in the back seats can be one of the biggest distractions when driving. A little planning and preparation can go a long way. Make sure your car has plenty of fuel and is fit for the journey as it gives you one less thing to worry about. If you prepare for the worst then safely arriving on time will give you that holiday boost from day one. Well planned breaks can make the journey more enjoyable and often tired children travel better.

• SCE 75 ENGINE BECOMES AVAILABLE FOR NEW SANDERO AND NEW LOGAN MCV LAURÉATE • HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT PACK BECOMES STANDARD ON AMBIANCE TRIM • THE NEW ENGINE AND TRIM COMBINATION FOR BOTH MODELS IS AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW acia is making a number of updates to the New Sandero and New Logan MCV ranges. The efficient SCe 75 engine is now offered with Lauréate trim for both cars. In response to customer demand, the Height Adjustment Pack becomes standard equipment for Ambiance trim. The New Sandero Ambiance remains the most affordable car on the UK market equipped with air conditioning. The frugal SCe 75 engine was previously available on the Access and Ambiance trims for New Sandero and New Logan MCV. Now customers looking for economy and low emissions can also enjoy the generous equipment of Lauréate, which includes satellite navigation and rear parking sensors. The new 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine produces the same power as the outgoing 1.2-litre 16V 75, but is up to 10 per cent more efficient. Equipped with the SCe 75 engine, the New Sandero returns 54.3mpg (NEDC combined cycle) and CO2 emissions of 117g/km. It allows the Sandero to accelerate from standstill to 62mph in 14.2 seconds on the way to a top speed of 98mph. The New Logan MCV SCe 75 achieves 52.3mpg (NEDC combined cycle) and 120g/km of CO2. It can accelerate from standstill to 62mph in 14.7 seconds and has a top speed of 98mph. The new engine and trim combination will be available from later in the year, but can be ordered now. Ambiance trim for both vehicles will have the previously optional Height Adjustment Pack fitted as standard. The pack consists of height adjustment for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and front seatbelts. The New Sandero Ambiance SCe 75 remains the most affordable new car on the UK market with air conditioning, priced at just over £1,500 lower than the nearest competitor.

July 2017 | motoring 11

THE MOST EXTREME MCLAREN ROAD CAR EVER: AUTOCAR’S EXCLUSIVE ON THE INCREDIBLE ‘P15’ HYPERCAR • NEW ROAD LEGAL HYPERCAR SET TO BE FASTER THAN ALL BUT THE P1 GTR ON TRACK • SECOND MODEL IN FIRM’S ULTIMATE SERIES AFTER THE P1, POWERED BY AN 800PS VERSION OF MCLAREN’S 3.8-LITRE TWIN-TURBO V8 • EXTREMELY LIGHT AT 1,300KG WITH RACE-INSPIRED PARED-BACK INTERIOR • AUTOCAR IMAGES POINT TO HOW THE NEW EXTREME MACHINE COULD LOOK, FEATURING FUNCTION-LED ALL CARBON BODYWORK

he most extreme road car in McLaren’s history is set to make its debut later this year – and Autocar has the full exclusive story. Codenamed ‘P15’ and said to feature an 800PS engine with a strippedout interior and overall weight of less than 1,300kg, the new model will be the second in McLaren’s Ultimate Series range after the hybrid P1. Designed to be the most extreme, track-ready but still road legal car in the line-up, McLaren’s engineers have reportedly been given the freedom to prioritise performance over everything else and the P15 is said to be faster on a racing circuit than any McLaren, bar the trackonly P1 GTR. At its heart is a tweaked version of McLaren’s 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 said to produce around 800PS (789bhp) – making it more powerful than the 727bhp produced by the road-going P1’s engine, but below the 903bhp peak achieved when the P1’s electric motor is also in operation.

12 motoring | July 2017

However, the car’s weight is said to have been slashed by the use of McLaren’s latest Monocage II one-piece carbonfibre tub (which now includes the roof structure), and when combined with a race-inspired two-seater interior and no P1-style electrical powertrain, that should mean the P15 tips the scales at less than 1,300kg. Against the 1,547kg P1, that would give the P15 an even better power-to-weight ratio, a crucial factor in achieving the goal of outstanding performance on the track. Straightline performance is expected to match, if not beat, the P1’s figures of 0-60mph in 2.7 secs and a quarter mile time of 10.2 seconds. The car’s brutal styling is said to be the ultimate distillation of form following function with carbon bodywork used only where it delivers a performance, rather than aesthetic, benefit. Active aerodynamics, with self-adjusting spoilers (knowledge gleaned from McLaren’s F1 experience), not to mention a huge diffuser are also expected to dominate. Autocar has produced a set of images to give a first glimpse at how the P15 could look. The official reveal will take place later this year, restricted to existing McLaren customers and potential buyers, followed by an official public debut at March 2018’s Geneva Motor Show. A price tag of around £700,000 plus tax (£840,000 in the UK) is mooted with production set

to be limited to just 500 cars. While other McLaren models such as the 675 have spawned Longtail (LT) and Spider open-top variants, the track focused natured of the P15 has ruled these out. However, as it will be a road car, there is the potential for a track-only GTR version as McLaren did with the P1 and P1 GTR. Autocar editor Mark Tisshaw said: “McLaren has always been relentless in the pursuit of performance – but with Aston Martin’s upcoming Valkyrie and the Mercedes-AMG Project One set to redefine the rules of the hypercar market, it has to keep ahead of the game. Hence the P15. “There’s no doubt that this will be an incredible machine, but what McLaren has learned of late is to create a car with a broad dynamic brief. With track performance as its goal, the P15 will obviously be outrageous on a racing circuit, but with that low weight, pared-back cabin and nonhybrid powerplant, it promises to be exceptional on the road too. If it does that, it will have created arguably an even better car than the P1 - some achievement. “These are certainly exciting times for the Woking-based firm as the P15 will also joined by a three-seat, F1-inspired hyper-GT – another story broken exclusively by Autocar. Codenamed BP23, the car will be revealed next year and arrive in 2019.”