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The reason car companies produced concept cars is twofold. Firstly an eye-catching machine will likely end up on the covers of magazines and in doing so bag some publicity for the company. However, the key reason for the majority of concept cars existence is to see how well the public receive the design of an up and coming model. Lexus are glad they did that last year as the LF-NX concept caused a lot of controversy. Thankfully the Lexus NF production car took onboard the criticisms.
Still retaining an edgy look, the Lexus NX is much more pleasing to the eye than its concept car. Looking to take on Range Rover’s Evoque in the booming compact SUV market, this car has strong competition. Bold design features and the new Lexus “hour glass” grill set the tone. Its cascading features set it apart from other rivals clearly proving that this product is a statement of intent. The interior should feel familiar to anyone who had been inside a modern Lexus, but the bold centre console sets it apart. The NX is also being offered in F-Sport trim. Engines consist of a NX300 hybrid, a 2.0 litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol and a naturally aspirated 2.0 litre petrol. Front or all wheel drive can be chosen.
There are many reasons why the crossover segment is booming. Aesthetically people like the robust looks of a big car as it promotes a sense of security. The high driving position enables a good view over traffic and down onto “lesser” road users. It is also the current fashion to own such a car and those making a large investment do not want to be seen driving something that is “so last generation, darling.” Of course a lot of peoples excuse for buying a an SUV is the odd day when it snows in the UK and that means you will need one with all wheel drive.
This is the revised 2014 Mazda CX-5 2.2 175ps AWD Sport Nav Diesel and if the above sounds close to what you are after, a 4X4 model with a good torque will not send you far wrong. The CX-5 back in 2012 introduced Mazda’s new design language, Kodo. Its fluid body lines and sculpted shape certainly separate it from a class that has become very populated over the years. Being the first of Mazda’s “6th generation” cars the brand has emphasised their desire to offer a premium product in the appearance of the CX-5. This car also introduced a new offering of efficient engines named Skyactiv of which now can be found across the range. For 2014 a refreshed CX-5 brings with it revised suspension, more refinement and some new technology.
Inside the Sport Nav model you will find a cabin upholstered in some rather nice leather and a console that provides excellent ergonomics, even if a little uninspired in its looks. The car seats five in plenty of comfort which the rear quarters supply good head and leg room to passengers not quick enough to call “shotgun.” Its boot is also of a good size. Up front everything you interact with has a nice robust feel to it which is great for a car that will likely become the family workhorse. The infotainment system in this car provides a touchscreen interface for things such as radio, Bluetooth and a built-in TomTom satellite navigation system. The instruments are functional and easy to read with things such as the gear leaver and climate control fall easily to hand. In terms of the driving position, the CX-5 hits the proverbial nail on the head with an arrangement that feels a little bit, dare I say it, sporty.
This sporty flare continues as you hit the road. Despite having a big 2.2 litre diesel engine and a weighty all wheel drive system, this cars agility is astonishing. Obviously the 2WD variant emphasises this further, but even this car feels swift. The immediacy of its change in direction is very commendable not just for an SUV, but in general. Its steering is well weighted allowing for accurate placement of the car on the road. This paired with a nice 6 speed manual gearbox makes for an involving drive. 420Nm of excellent torque is on offer for a 0-62MPH time of 8.8 seconds. This torque plays a huge part in the CX-5’s fun factor, surging the car onwards out of corner exits. Body roll is much less than you would expect from a car of this size enabling you to carry more momentum through sharp bends. The suspension is a tad softer than the 2013 specification but only marginally. However, what you trade for a little bit of ride comfort you gain in handling. On faster road the 2.2 litre Skyactiv diesel goes to work and is more than happy to pound at motorways all day long. Its 170BHP is more than enough for you to make courageous overtaking manoeuvres when faced with a Sunday driver ahead. Engine noise is reduced in the cabin over last year’s car allowing for a bit more refinement, yet under acceleration the diesel engine can be heard quite predominantly. Settle the car back down and order is restored. If you are unlucky enough to stall the car this 2014 CX-5 will restart the engine as soon as the clutch is pressed. Mazda claim that the 2014 Mazda CX-5 2.2 175ps AWD Sport Nav Diesel will achieve 54.3MPG on the combined cycle, an impressive figure for its class.
At £28,395 our test car had all of the bells and whistles including DAB radio, keyless entry, leather and the list goes on… An entry level CX-5 petrol can be had from as little as £21,595. All-in-all the 2014 Mazda CX-5 hasn’t changed dramatically from its inception, but then did it need to? Mazda got the recipe right the first time offering a machine that is very enjoyable to drive.
We had not yet had a good poke around Mercedes-Benz latest offering until the other day. Whist the crossover market is forever growing in popularity, it made sense for the Germans to take advantage of the platform that underpins the A-Class and create a baby SUV. The Mercedes-Benz GLA slots into the range as a high riding hatchback that is available with a range of engines and optional all wheel drive. We got the opportunity to prod around a preproduction model at Mercedes-Benz World Brooklands.
A shiny new Mercedes-Benz GLA 220 4Matic is currently parked in the lobby of the huge Mercedes structure. Locked to the general public, we were given the keys to open the car up and take a good look around the new baby Benz.
Proportionally the car looks great with its long bonnet and curved rear. The GLA isn’t as tall as what the pictures would have you believe, that is down to some of its bold design features. Its large grill, strong body lines and angular headlights give it an air of aggression that maybe some of its competitors lack. In AMG-line trim this GLA appeared very smart and ever the premium product just like its little brother, the A-Class.
The interior is a masterclass in high quality surfaces. Leather wraps itself around large bolstered seats whilst aluminium details the sculpted shape that makes up the console. A chunky steering wheel is presented to the driver along with a familiar Mercedes-Benz instrument cluster. In the back what would a be a rather dark space is brightened with a two section glass roof. Head room is good and whilst leg room is far from tight, its isn’t the most spacious in the class. The boot is adequate, but again rivals do offer more storage.
Mercedes-Benz have done a good job with the GLA presenting a well built and pleasant interior. I don’t think the exterior can be faulted as it looks great, especially in black.
For a more in-depth opinion to be formed on the GLA we shall just have to wait until we drive it.
The Nissan Juke and Renualt Capture have see success in the ever growing crossover or “compact SUV” marketplace. The funky designs are eye-catching whilst their high ride hight allows owners to acquire that much desired aloft driving position. For a few years now manufacturers have been trying to beat Nissan at their own game. VW is next to take aim. Volkswagen T-Roc Concept hits Geneva.
Based upon Volkswagen’s MQV platform, the T-Roc Concept is a high riding hatchback that possesses some serious attitude. Deep body lines and swollen wheel arches gives the car a very rugged architecture that is unique. A future model will take design characteristics from this concept car and share its platform with the Audi Q1. VW plan to expand their SUV range over the next few years with the introduction of a larger vehicle as well as something along the lines of this little T-Roc. The Volkswagen T-Roc Concept is powered by turbocharged 2.0 litre four cylinder diesel engine with 181BHP and 280lb ft of torque. 0-62MPH is completed in 6.9 seconds and according to the Germans the crossover will achieve a top speed of 131MPH.
According to BMW, they have sold 5 per cent more mid-sized SUV models in 2013 in comparison to 2012. 2013’s figures weigh in at 157,298 cars clearly demonstrating the growing popularity of the segment. The desirable BMW badge on the bonnet of your premium SUV adds to the allure of the X3. For 2014 the car gets a nip and tuck as well as revised engines. 2014 BMW X3 gets a Facelift ready for Geneva.
To make its debut at the Geneva motor show in March, the new 2014 BMW X3 receives some subtle exterior changes. Those famous kidney grills get a bit more “bling” with the addition of a chrome surround, the front skid plate is more prominent, front and rear bumpers are now a more sculpted shape, and the headlights have been design to mimic those on the new X5. The engine updates utilise the companies latest diesel units with the X3 sDrive18d being the most efficient at 56.5MPG. The most powerful option is the xDrive35d with 309BHP and 465lb-ft of torque. 0-62MPH is done and dusted in just 5.3 seconds all whilst returning 47MPG.
The 2014 BMW X3 goes on sale in June.
The India market is of keen interest to almost every car manufacturer due to its rapid expansion. More people in that part of the world are buying cars and so every brand wants to claim their slice of the pie. Ford and Renault are already a prominent force in the region, but VW have plans to bring more of their German engineering to the people of India. Unveiled, Volkswagen Taigun Concept Delhi Auto Expo.
The first time we saw the Volkswagen Taigun was at the 2012 Sao Paulo show in Brazil. This supermini sized crossover is effectively a raised VW up! with some more aggressive styling. Since its first appearance the car has been adapted for the Indian market and now looks very close to being production ready. Much like its key competitor, the Ford EcoSport, the spare tyre is now mounted on the rear tailgate to allow for easier access to it. The roads in India aren’t always as smooth as we are used to in Europe, and so the ease of removing the spare without unloading what is in the boot would be most welcome when stranded at the side of the road.
It is as yet unknown if the Taigun will make it to Europe.
The crossover SUV sector is the only segment of the market that appeared undeterred by the economic upheaval we have experienced over the past few years. Those still buying new cars craved the high driving position and sense of security that a bigger vehicle gives. Mazda who were keen to introduce a new model to their range decided that this market was a relatively safe bet and so the CX-5 was conceived. Offering Japanese reliability in its engineering, a range of new efficient Skyactiv engines and Kodo design langue, this SUV takes on tough competition.
Kodo means “soul of motion” and it is this stylistic statement that you shall see attached to many future Mazdas. For those who don’t speak car designer, soul of motion translates into a sculpted shape that is garnished by swooping body lines. Our test car in this gorgeous red paint turned many heads and left the neighbours cooing over it whilst parked in my street. The designers have done a fine job giving the CX-5 a purposeful stance and handsome looks.
The interior doesn’t convey the overt external design, but instead provides occupants with a clean and ergonomic cabin. Controls and buttons are logically located with each of them possessing a nice durable feel. Air conditioning dials adjust the dual zone climate control with little clicks just the like the tumbler on a safe, buttons have a reassuring motion, and the plastics feel hardwearing. It may not be the prettiest interior of its class, but it is the most hassle-free as everything falls to hand and you can tell a lot of time has been put into mastering how the driver interacts with the car. The touchscreen display gives access to the cars infotainment system and also a built-in TomTom sat-nav of which I must say is rather good at its job. Seating five in leather trimmed comfort, this CX-5 Sport Nav is a nice place to be, and with creature comforts such as heated seats, long journeys needn’t be arduous. As for space, rear passenger head and leg room is ample along with the boot being large enough for just about any shopping trip you can throw at it.
Starting the Mazda CX-5’s 148BHP 2.2 litre diesel engine takes just the push of a button. The Skyactiv engine idles quietly and proved to be a very smooth power unit. This specific Mazda CX-5 is the 2WD model as opposed to the heavier, but more powerful, 173BHP four wheel drive model. In motion it became apparent that this car seems to hark back to an old slogan of the Japanese company… “Soul of a sports car.” Now I’m not saying that it drives like a Mazda MX-5, but for a car of this size it feels very nimble. The steering is responsive and possesses good levels of feedback, there is a lack of body roll and the manual gear change is very slick. It just feels light on its toes and defiantly gives it a more sporting edge over its competitors. With the diesel engine providing a positive dose of torque and linear power delivery, the CX-5 is enjoyable to drive in a spirited manor. The trade-off, however, is that the cars ride can be a bit firm at times. When it comes time for you to drop the kids off to school, the Mazda is refined in urban environments and the engine is quiet whilst in use. Pottering around with the start/stop system active not only highlighted its green credentials, but also its ease to drive. On the motorways there is a bit of road noise that protrudes into the cabin, but I think that is mainly due to the larger alloy wheels on this model. Otherwise on the flat tarmac of the M27, it performs well maintaining speed effortlessly and utilises its power for strong overtaking manoeuvres. Set the cruise control letting the car take the strain and you will arrive at your destination in no time.
The Mazda CX-5 2.2 2WD 150ps Sport Nav Diesel has the best engine in the range fulfilling its promise of unique styling and good levels of practicality, but adding some very pleasing economy figures into the mix. Driven gently Mazda says you can get up to 61MPG out of the CX-5. Whilst we were testing the car in multiple environments and in different driving styles, we managed a still respectable 47MPG in the real world. Our test car came to a little over £27,000 and although had plenty of extras, could be seen as a bit costly. We would recommend this brilliant power train and engine combination but with the still adequately equipped SE-L trim that can be had from a well priced £23,825.
Overall the CX-5 is certainly the most engaging car to drive in its class and a machine that should make everybody’s shortlist who is shopping for an SUV.
The Volvo XC90 when new won sparkling reviews from journalists and with good reason. This 7 seat SUV offered practicality, that much craved high driving position and some of the very best safety tech the industry had to offer. However, the XC90 is getting on a bit and competitors are taking full advantage of this. Volvo are very soon to reveal their next-generation SUV but before then the Concept XC Coupe gives us a few clues as to how this future car will look.
Debuting at the 2014 Detroit motor show, the Volvo Concept XC Coupe may well be a two door, four seater car, but its design language and overall shape is what the XC90 will take for inspiration. This sleek crossover teams a long bonnet with shot overhangs to produce quite a majestic stance. The new XC90 will be the first Volvo to make use of the companies SPA platform that will eventually underpin the majority of their models.
In terms of the environment, cars do tend to get a bad press. With the growing number of vehicles in the world and the polar ice cubes reportedly shrinking, the motor car does look a tad guilty. Though the correlation between the two is up for debate, it would be wise if we did our bit to help preserve Fred the polar bears living room. Within Europe strict CO2 emissions laws are coming into force with manufacturers having to look at ways to reduce their output of greenhouse gasses. The current trend is one of downsizing engines but finding methods to maintain performance. Honda did a great job with the new 1.6 litre diesel engine they put in the Civic, but the question is can the same unit impress in the much larger CR-V? Previously the only diesel option for the Japanese SUV was a 2.2 litre, a good engine but in a world where we are all trying to save the environment this 1.6 litre i-DTEC has now found a new home.
Our test car is in SR specification and is front wheel drive as opposed to other CR-V models where a 4X4 option is available. Visually the car is identical to the rest of the lineup portraying a modern design architecture that has a functional nature to it. In Passion Red with these smart looking 18 inch alloy wheels the CR-V looks very grown up and premium. The roof rails and aluminium trim detail the cars silhouette nicely supporting the good proportions this model has.
Now, over the past year we have driven every CR-V engine and trim level and whilst the top spec EX car has a very comfortable cabin sporting every toy under the sun, I think that this SR option is the sweet spot. The half leather half alcantara seats are extremely comfortable and give the interior a plush feel. This car also receives a DAB radio with premium audio system, UBS and MP3 compatibility, privacy glass and heated seats for those cold winter mornings. Whilst I did miss the panoramic glass roof of the EX, the CR-V’s windows are plenty big enough to let generous amounts of natural light in. Passengers should find the seats supportive and for those in the rear head and leg room is not at a premium. Its console has a nice logical layout to it that makes its operation quick and easy. The boot is vast and looks as if it could swallow the Isle of White! Lining the floor of this area is a removable flexible plastic tray that can catch dog hair, mud, sand as well as any other unwanted mess. This CR-Vs vast storage can be extended with one pull of a leaver that flattens the rear bench revealing a loading area that might just carry Belgium give or take a few boxes of chocolate.
Starting the CR-V on a cold day it does sound a bit grumbly, as do most diesels, but once up to temperature and underway the 1.6 is quiet and refined. Whilst there is no getting away from the fact that the CR-V is a big car, driving it in an urban environment is a piece of cake. Thanks to large mirrors and big windows visibility is always good. Parking sensors and a reversing camera means you can park this car in some rather challenging spots without too much of a problem. Whilst the steering doesn’t provide bags of feedback, it is well weighted and in tandem with a good 6 speed manual gearbox this car never feels like a chore to drive. Through faster bends, as you would expect from a car of this nature, there is a noticeable amount of body roll. The new 1.6 litre i-DTEC engine offers plenty of pulling power with torque accessible from low revs whilst it happily copes with the extra weight of this CR-V over the Civic. Proceeding to join a motorway, this engine also proves to be a good all rounder with the ability to not only cruise for long distances, but also get a wiggle on when an overtaking manoeuvre is necessary. The pedal box, much like the steering could do with a bit more feel but the throttle is responsive and the brakes perfectly employable for the job of stopping the car. In terms of suspension, the CR-V is good at soaking up the often aggressive bumps and potholes found on UK roads. Fuel economy sat at an average of 48MPG after the car had been put through its paces in an array of situations.
All-in-all this new engine for the Honda CR-V builds on top of an already competent package. Great levels of comfort and practicality mean that the CR-V is an ideal family companion. Don’t forget that this is a Honda and very unlikely to let you down. At just over £27,000 our test car is a bit on the expensive side, yet in terms of equipment and trim along with the 1.6 litre diesel engine, it is the pick of the bunch.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA is based upon the A-Class and serves as a baby SUV in the German manufacturers product portfolio. It is a rather good looking luxury product but those slightly crazed engineers at AMG have decided that the GLA needs a bit more lunacy in its life. A new concept car making its debut at the LA Motor Show previews a future model.
This Mercedes-Benz GLA45 AMG Concept is a more hardcore performance derivative of the model it is based upon. Seen here for the first time wearing some questionable stickers, this car now has the same 2.0 litre turbocharged engine that the A45 AMG and CLA45 AMG posses. That means 335BHP and 332lb ft of torque. Mercedes say that the car will sprint from 0-62MPH in under 5 seconds. Garish spoiler and stickers aside, the GLA45 AMG sound like a rather interesting cocktail.
