Author: Blackball Media

The future of the motoring world is electric – and nearly all manufacturers are working on some very exciting EVs.

Electrified vehicles won’t just save you money on fuel, but they can be quicker than even the most powerful cars on sale today.

Conventionally-powered cars are quickly losing favour throughout the world, with the reputation of diesel falling day by day. That’s not to mention consumers are clambering over one another to get in an electric vehicle.

As a result, there are more electric cars on the cards than ever before. We’ve taken a look at what’s coming up, and picked out 10 of the most interesting set to hit the streets.

Honda Urban EV

Infused with retro design cues, the Honda Urban EV concept certainly looks interesting enough to convert die-hard petrol fans into electric car lovers.

However, don’t think that this is just some show-ready concept which will never see the light of day – Honda has confirmed that a production version of the Urban EV will be available in Europe in 2019.

Nissan Leaf

The bread-and-butter of the electric car world, the Nissan Leaf is the world’s best-selling electric car. It’s a package of practicality and low running costs that has found favour with a lot of buyers – and now there’s a new one!

Capable of travelling 235 miles on a single charge, it even boasts a host of semi-autonomous assistance systems make it safer than ever. It goes on sale in the new year.

Tesla Model 3

Designed to be more affordable than any Tesla currently on sale, the Model 3 is an all-electric alternative to the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class. And it’s no slouch – Tesla claims that it’ll hit 60mph in around five seconds.

With an estimated range of 220 miles, it’s just as useable as any other Tesla on sale today – though an optional long-range battery can bump this up to 310 miles. Deliveries of the Model 3 are expected to commence in Europe next year, but the manufacturer has been plagued with production problems, so they’ll have to solve those first.

Jaguar I-Pace

This latest Jaguar SUV has been going through its final testing phases ahead of its full reveal next year. The I-Pace is all-electric, but has plenty of performance on its side – Jaguar claims it’ll hit 60mph in around four seconds.

The British manufacturer also says you’ll be able to recharge the I-Pace to 80 per cent in just 90 minutes with a high-power connection. Though only set to be revealed next year, it’s likely that the I-Pace will be on the streets shortly after.

Polestar 1

Polestar, once the performance arm of Volvo, has recently been revealed as a new standalone electric performance brand. Its first car is this – the Polestar 1.

A two-door, 2+2 seat grand tourer, it uses a hybrid powertrain for the best combination of low emissions and performance.

Unfortunately, it’s going to be a little while until we see this Polestar 1 hit the roads. The factory where it’s made in China isn’t even finished yet. However, it’s a staggeringly cool looking thing, so it’s definitely worth the wait.

Porsche Mission E

Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2015, the Mission E is the first all-electric four-seat sports car ever made by Porsche. It’s a real looker, bringing futuristic styling and next-level technology to the market.

Two electric motors combine to produce close to 600bhp, allowing it to crack 60mph in under 3.5 seconds. Porsche claims it’ll return 310 miles on a single charge. It’s expected to go on sale in 2019.

Tesla Roadster

It’s unsurprising that there’s two Teslas on this list – the company is at the forefront of electric car development, after all.

The Roadster, a progression of the very first car the manufacturer produced, has a claimed 0-60mph time of just 1.9 seconds – making it the first car to accelerate to that speed in under two seconds.

It’s also claimed to have a 620-mile range – close to double that of conventional electric vehicles. You’ve got a little while to wait before you see whether these claims can be verified – the Roadster isn’t set to arrive until 2020.

Honda Sports EV

Here’s another retro-styled electric car from Honda that took the Tokyo Motor Show by storm. It sits on the same platform as the Urban EV, making it a compact two-seater alternative.

One of the best features is its illuminated bonnet badge – something rarely used on cars. Whether or not this will carry through to the production version remains to be seen, though that’s not likely to happen until 2020.

Aston Martin RapideE

The RapideE will be the first all-electric car made by Aston Martin – a huge step forward for what is a very combustion-engine proud company.

Set to enter production in 2019, it’s going to be limited to just 155 cars, but shows an indication of the British manufacturer’s move towards electrification.

The four-door sports car’s conventional V12 engine will be replaced by an all-electric powertrain. Don’t fear it will lack performance, though. Given the crest on the front of the car, expect it to still offer a huge amount of thrills.

Mini Electric

The regular Mini has proved to be hugely popular, offering involving driving characteristics and character in spades.

Now an all-electric Mini, which uses a lithium battery for the best possible range, will be arriving in 2019. Built at the firm’s Oxford plant, the fact it looks like a conventional car could prove popular with buyers.

Iconic French sports car manufacturer Alpine is back after 22 years. Thanks to backing from Renault, the Alpine A110 features the very latest technology – helping it take on rivals such as the Porsche 718 Cayman and Alfa Romeo 4C.

Why should you be excited? Well, it’s a grand return for a historic marque, which is why we’ve picked out the key information you need to know about the new A110.

What’s powering the A110?

The Alpine uses a turbocharged 1.8-litre engine which develops 249bhp. Power is sent to the rear wheels only – in true Alpine tradition – though there’s no manual gearbox to be heard of, just a seven-speed automatic.

Alpine claims that the A110 can hit 60mph in just 4.3 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 156mph – that matches the acceleration figures for Alfa’s 4C.

For more performance, add lightness

The Alpine incorporates a huge amount of measures designed to make it as light as possible. For instance, the seats weigh just 13.1kg each, and the entire framework is made from aluminium.

In all, the A110 weighs under 1,110kg – the Porsche Cayman, in contrast, weighs in at 1,355kg unladen.

There’s a lot of tech in the cabin

Despite the weight saving, you still get satellite navigation, climate control and cruise control in the A110, so it’s not a completely bare place to be.

Those lightweight sports seats are leather-trimmed too, while the dash has been finished in carbon fibre – it’s still a special cabin to sit in.

A shade closer

Buyers have just three colours to choose from with the new A110 – Alpine Blue, Noir Profound or Blanc Solaire. Though limited in number, all available shades look excellent on the Alpine, as do the standard 18-inch forged aluminium wheels.

At the back, there’s a standard active sports exhaust which not only looks the part, but is sure to add a lot of character to the car’s sound.

A limited first run

The initial run of Alpines – called Premier Editions – is limited to just 1,955 examples, mirroring the brand’s beginnings in 1955. All of them sold out within five minutes of going on sale.

However, don’t despair if you want an A110 of your own – it goes on general sale next year, though prices are yet to be announced.

Lamborghini has taken the wraps off its controversial Urus 4×4 – but not everyone thinks it looks bellissimo.
While an off-roader from a traditional sports car manufacturer is always going to raise eyebrows, it seems the internet is aghast at everything from the door handles to the new Italian car’s name.

On the plus side, the Urus has a 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 under the bonnet packing 641bhp, allowing the SUV to reach a top speed of 186mph – that’s quicker than the Bentley Bentayga. It also gets all manner of off-road tech designed to make it capable in all conditions, not just on the road.
However, despite the incredible technology, a lot of people aren’t liking the way the Urus looks. So what exactly has got up people’s noses?

The rear door handles

Once you’ve spotted them, they’re hard to un-see. For some reason, Lamborghini placed the handles on the rear wheel arch and they look like ugly barnacles.

With many manufacturers working hard to integrate handles into creases and curves of bodywork so they don’t ruin lines, it appears Lamborghini’s designers forgot it needed them and stuck them on at the last minute.

The name

Roughly translated, the name Urus refers to extinct wild relations of domestic cattle. We get the association with bulls – there’s one on the Lamborghini crest, after all – but this one seems just a little tenuous.

The Urus moniker sounds clunky and it’s far from the sleek Lambo names of old – evocative names like Miura, Diablo and Countach. Even Gallardo has a more panache, than the new 4×4.

The interior

It’s hard to ignore the influence that Lamborghini parent Audi has had over the Urus’ interior. The large infotainment screen looks good, but unfortunately that’s where the design appeal stops.

Lower down, the switchgear, steering settings and drive mode controllers have all been lumped together. It all looks just a little clumsy – and not particularly user-friendly.

Front radar sensor

In order to top the latest safety tests, manufacturers have to incorporate the semi-autonomous technology in their cars. This relies on sensors at the front of the car.

Most car makers tuck them away neatly in the front of the grille, but Lamborghini seems to have chosen to make it a ‘feature’.
Unfortunately, it does stick out a fair bit and makes the front end of the car look less finished than it should – we’d have liked to have seen it fit flusher with the front bumper.

Rear styling

The back of the Urus hasn’t gone down well with some many internet commentators – most labelling it fussy and over-styled.
The quad exhaust pipes appear to be angled out, rather than pointing directly rearward – a strange styling touch that will also take some getting used to.

Side profile

You’d expect a Lamborghini-made SUV to incorporate a little sleekness in its design, but unfortunately that doesn’t seem to be the case with the Urus.

The windscreen is very upright, while the rear three quarters has a rather unfortunate hint of a Hyundai Veloster in it. Just don’t say that too loudly – it will upset the Italians.

The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a series of checks that has to be carried out once a year on all vehicles that are driven in public places.

Currently, it only applies to cars over three years of age, although the government is planning to extend this to four years. Cars that are more than 40-years-old will also be exempt under new rules.

These are the things you need to check if you want your car to pass its next MOT.

1. Body structure

Your car’s body must be free of serious damage or corrosion in order for it to be deemed safe – it’s not good if your car falls apart in the middle of the road! There mustn’t be any sharp edges either, as these could cause injury, especially in a collision.

2. Towbars

Towbars must be secure and in good condition, so that items being towed do not come loose and cause an accident. The towbar must not have been modified in any way. The 13-pin electrical socket must also be operational.

3. Fuel system

The mechanic carrying out your MOT will inspect your fuel system, ensuring that all pipes and hoses are secure and that there are no leaks – petrol or diesel pouring out of your vehicle can cause some very serious problems! Your car’s fuel cap will also be checked to see if it works as it should.

4. Emissions

Your car will have to meet a specific set of strict emissions rules. These vary from vehicle to vehicle, depending on factors such as age and fuel type. In some cases, MOT testers will refuse to test certain diesel vehicles if they believe the engine could be damaged in the process.

To prevent this from happening to you, you should make sure your diesel car is properly maintained, has the camshaft drive belt replaced regularly, the governor settings haven’t been tampered with and the engine is fully warmed up when it goes in for the MOT.

5. Exhaust system

The exhaust itself will be closely examined. The tester will make sure all components are present and working. They will especially make sure that the catalyst hasn’t been removed. The system must also meet limits on noise and leakage.

6. Safety equipment

In order to pass its MOT, your car will need to meet the law on safety equipment. All mandatory seatbelts must be fitted, in good condition and suitable for the vehicle. They must be operational and securely attached. The dashboard warning lights for safety equipment need to be operating correctly so you know when something’s wrong with your car. Three lights it is compulsory to have working are those for the air bags, seatbelt pre-tensioners and seatbelt load limiters.

7. Seats

It is mandatory for all seats to be securely fitted and the backs must be able to be fixed in an upright position. It is also compulsory for the driver’s seat to be fully adjustable.

8. Doors

When it comes to doors, the latch must be fitted securely. The front doors have to be able to open from both the inside and outside, while the back doors only have to open from the outside. All hinges and catches must be in good condition.

9. Mirrors

Your car will need to meet the minimum number of mirrors for its type. Usually, you are legally required to have one internal rear view mirror and one or two external wing mirrors.

10. Load security

So that your prized possessions don’t go flying out on to the road, your car’s boot needs to able to close properly and securely.

11. Brakes

Naturally, your car needs to be able to stop. The condition of the brakes will be checked, as well as whether they’ve had any poor repairs or modifications. An efficiency test will be carried out, followed by a test of the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability program (ESP). Warning lights for ABS, ESP, the handbrake and brake fluid will also be tested.

12. Wheels and tyres

The condition of both the wheels and tyres will be thoroughly checked. The mechanic will ensure the wheels are attached securely, as well as ensuring the tyres’ size and tread depth are appropriate. This test does not include spare wheels and tyres.

13. Number plates

Part of the MOT involves an inspection of your car’s number plate. The tester will look at the condition of the plate and its colour, as well as making sure it has been correctly attached and the characters are correctly formed and spaced.

14. Headlights

The condition of the headlights will be checked, including the operation of both dipped and main beams, their aim and whether the main beam warning light works. If high intensity discharge (HID) bulbs are fitted, the compulsory self-levelling system and headlamp washers will also need to work.

15. Bonnet

The bonnet doesn’t escape scrutiny either. The mechanic will make sure that it closes securely – if it flies open while you’re driving along, you’ll certainly have a visibility problem on your hands!

16. Wipers and washers

The wipers and washers on the car’s windscreen – and rear window if applicable – will be checked, as they need to work properly for the driver to have a clear view of the road, especially in rainy conditions.

17. Windscreen

The car’s windscreen needs to be in good condition, allowing the driver to see what’s going on ahead of them, for the vehicle to be deemed safe.

18. Horn

Your car needs to have a fully working horn to pass. In addition, the horn has to be suitable for the vehicle it’s fitted to – preferably audible, but not deafening.

19. Steering and suspension

The condition of car’s steering and suspension will undergo a very close check to make sure everything works as it should. The power steering fluid level will be examined, while the tester will ensure there have been no inappropriate repairs or modifications. The mechanic will also look for corrosion in the power steering pipes or hoses. Finally, the steering lock mechanism will be tested.

20. Vehicle identification number

Cars from after August 1, 1980 have to display a vehicle identification number (VIN). This does not apply to multistage build vehicles, such as converted vans and the like.

21. Electrical

The final point on the list is the electrical system. Any visible electrical wiring will be checked, as will the battery. These need to be working correctly, as well as safely.

1: It’s quick

The Tesla truck is capable of achieving 0-60mph in a mere five seconds – that’s faster than a regular hot hatch, so a production lorry accelerating in this manner is completely unheard of. What’s more, it’ll still complete the sprint to 60mph in 20 seconds when it’s towing a 36-tonne trailer.

2: It’s made from unusual materials… for a truck

Aiding the incredible acceleration figures are the lightweight materials that have been used to build the Tesla truck. The cab is constructed entirely from carbon fibre, which is both extremely light and highly durable. With weight being an obvious hindrance to the performance of any lorry, this will undoubtedly be a game-changer.

3: It can go the distance

One of the biggest barriers in the way of a general uptake of electric vehicles is range anxiety. Of course, if people driving ordinary cars on everyday journeys are worried about how far they can go before having to recharge, then that’s going to be a huge concern for lorry drivers. Fortunately, Tesla has thought of this, claiming that its new lorry can go 500 miles on a single charge.

4: It has an almost unique driving position

It’s not often that one can compare the qualities of the iconic McLaren F1 hypercar with that of a lorry, but in this case, we can. The Tesla truck features a central driving position, just like the 240mph British barnstormer from the 1990s. It will be interesting to see if this makes the lives of lorry drivers any easier with regards to visibility.

5: It’s filled with cutting-edge tech

As you would expect from a Tesla, the American manufacturer’s new lorry comes brimming with the latest technology. The most prominent is the autonomous driving capability, which prevents the truck from jack-knifing with its own trailer. There’s also a semi-autonomous braking feature, which will prove especially useful for lorry drivers who are becoming tired towards the end of a long drive.

6: There’s some unusual safety precautions

The Tesla truck’s windscreen is made from a special impact resistance glass. This will protect the driver in the event of a collision, as well as shielding them from any explosions should the worst happen when a flammable substance is being transported.

7: Recharging is faster than you might expect

According to Tesla, lorry drivers needn’t worry when their 500 miles range runs out. At one of the company’s super-fast charging points, 400 miles of range can be added on to the vehicle in just 30 minutes. It may not be as quick as a stop at the fuel pump, but chances are that after 500 miles of driving, the trucker will need a half hour rest break.

8: They’re being snapped up already

It looks as though this new lorry could be just the boost that Tesla needs, with companies already placing orders. According to a Bloomberg report, Meijer, a grocery store chain based in Michigan, USA, has put deposits down on four of the lorries, at a rate of $5,000 (approx. £3,770) each. This is because the company sees electricity as a cheaper means of fuelling its vehicles than diesel.

Manufacturers across the world have been busy revealing their electric and hybrid cars of the future.

Motor shows throughout 2017 have been dominated by alternatively fuelled vehicles and with the year coming to a close, we’ve picked 10 you need to know about.

BMW i3s

German manufacturer BMW has been onto a winner with its halo i8 sports car, and will be looking to capitalise on its success with a freshly tweaked i3. As well as revealing a new look for the standard model and range extender version, the manufacturer uncovered a tuned version, the i3s, which boasts 181bhp, new lower suspension and sportier looks.

The refined electric hatch will hit 60mph 6.7 seconds — just 0.4 seconds quicker than the standard model with a top speed improved by 6mph, now up to 99mph. Prices are up £1,000 across the range, starting from £34,070.

Mercedes EQA

The EQA Concept signals the start of Mercedes’ electric car onslaught and is one of ten electric cars the Stuttgart-based outfit plans to have on sale by 2022. The EQA is predicted to be the biggest seller in the Mercedes EQ electric line-up, with an expected price tag of less than £36,000 when it goes on sale in 2020.

The EQA will have a range of around 250 miles, will produce more than 268bhp and 500Nm of torque.

Honda CR-V Hybrid

With the exception of its NSX supercar, there has been a noticeable lack of hybrid models in the Honda range of late. That’s about to change, though, with the introduction of a hybrid CR-V, the first volume electrified model from the Japanese firm since the Jazz Hybrid in 2011.

Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the CR-V features a 2.0-litre iVTEC petrol engine and two electric motors – one powers the front wheels while the second can recharge the batteries.

The car works out itself how to use fuel and electric energy the most efficiently and switches between EV, hybrid and engine drive when needed. It is due to arrive in late 2018.

Smart Vision EQ

Since it was first introduced in 1998, Smart’s two-seater models have become a staple commuter choice in clogged up cities thanks to compact dimensions and a brilliant turning circle. Now, city-goers of the future will be able to look forward to a fully autonomous option with zero emissions — should Smart give its Vision EQ concept the green light.

The German manufacturer reckons most members of the public will share ownership of cars by 2030, rather than own them, and is heavily investing in its Car2Go programme to prepare itself for this future.

Mini Electric

Built in Britain and guaranteeing 4,500 jobs at the firm’s Oxford plant, the Mini Electric is BMW Group’s gamble on an emissions-free future. Few details of what lies underneath the iconic Mini body work have been revealed, but expect it to share much of the technology from the BMW i3. That car has around 180 miles of range.

While the details may be sketchy, the design you see here is likely to be very close to the production model slated to arrive in 2019.

Volkswagen ID Crozz

This is Volkswagen’s crossover (Crozz, get it?) electric car concept that’s set to spearhead the maker’s foray into EVs. The high-riding SUV-style car will be just one of 23 all-electric vehicles arriving from the VW Group by 2025 as it invests £5.4bn in alternatively fuelled cars.

This concept apparently produces 302bhp and is claimed to have a range of 311 miles. Scheduled to arrive in 2020, it can be charged to 80 per cent in 30 minutes using a fast charger.

Mercedes-AMG Project One

Worried the future of electrified cars will be boring? Think again!

This is the Mercedes-AMG Project One, which features the same drivetrain used in the firm’s Formula 1 championship-dominating cars. It produces 992bhp, has a top speed of 217mph and can hit 124mph in just six seconds.

Four electric motors give the plug-in hypercar four-wheel-drive and an electric range of 16 miles. However, much like the Porsche 918 and McLaren P1 that went before it, most of the electric power will be used to boost performance. All this comes at a price – £2m at current exchange rates. Before you rush for your cheque book, though, calm the excitement – they’re all sold out.

Nissan Leaf

It was the car that arguably took EVs mainstream – now, as the rest of the motoring industry unveils its EV future, Nissan is busy taking the wraps off its second-generation Leaf. Unveiled in Japan in October, the new Leaf will feature ProPilot autonomous tech which can drive the car in single-lane traffic and park for you.

Built at the Japanese firm’s UK factory in Sunderland, the new car features a fresh look and a range of 235 miles. That’s 111 miles more than the 24kW base version of the outgoing car and beats the current top-of-the-range 30kW model by 80 miles.

Jaguar E-Type Zero

Meet the most beautiful electric car yet to be made – the Jaguar E-Type Zero.

It’s based on an original chassis built in the 1960s, but rather than a straight-six engine and barebones technology, it features an electric motor, a smart infotainment system and LED headlights.

Sacrilege, you may cry. But do bear in mind it’s faster than the original too, with a 0-60mph time of just 5.3 seconds, all while boasting an impressive real-world range of 170 miles. Still too much? Well, Jaguar says the electric components have been built to fit exactly where the original internals did, meaning it can be reverted to its usual spec at any time.

The Coventry-based firm is said to be currently investigating ways to bring the model to market.

BMW i Vision Dynamics

BMW has released an electric saloon concept which previews a forthcoming i5 saloon – which would sit neatly between the i3 hatch and i8 sports car. The i Vision Dynamics is a four-door concept, with a body style similar to its Gran Coupe model.

BMW claims it has a range of 373 miles, a top speed of over 120mph and a 0-60mph time of 3.8 seconds.

By 2025, the German manufacturer will have electrified 25 models in its range, 12 of these being fully electric. The i5 is expected to reach showrooms by 2021.

If there’s one thing to say about the latest Honda Civic Type R, it’s that it is divisive. The styling of Honda’s performance hatchback range has always been on the wild side, but the latest iteration is the most bold and brash yet.
If you can see past the vast spoiler, bonnet scoop and seemingly random cuts and slashes in the bodywork, you’ll find an absolute cracker of a hot hatchback. In fact, you’ll find the most powerful front-wheel drive hot hatch currently on sale.
But power and crazy styling don’t necessarily make a class leader. Luckily, the Civic Type R has a few more tricks up its sleeve than that.

1. It’s fast

The Civic Type R posted a Nurburgring record just before it went on sale, lapping the famous race track in just 7:43.8. That was seven seconds quicker than the previous model, and a record for a front-wheel drive car around the Nurburgring.
Honda says the car was as close to stock as possible – it used road tyres, and the only weight stripped from the car was to allow for the roll cage. The company also claims the roll cage didn’t contribute any stiffness either.
The Civic Type R will go from 0-60 in just over five-and-a-half seconds and onto a top speed of 169mph.

2. It’s not absurdly powerful

Sure, 316bhp is plenty of grunt by most standards, but the Civic Type R is by no means the most powerful kid on the block. The Audi RS3 is indecently powerful, with 395bhp, while the Mercedes-AMG A 45 serves up 376bhp.
More tellingly, the Civic Type R’s 2.0-litre turbocharged engine is only 10bhp up on its predecessors.
Instead of chasing massive power, Honda has chosen wisely, and gone for a power output that can still be safely deployed on public roads – and enjoyed with a six-speed manual gearbox.

3. The mad looks aren’t just for show

First, start at the rear. You can’t miss the triple exhaust pipe system – with a small central pipe flanked by larger units. The central pipe is there to reduce boominess at motorway speeds.
Round the front, that bonnet scoop is essential for engine cooling, while underneath is a host of flat floor parts, which reduce lift.
The result of all the crazy bodywork is a car that generates genuine downforce at speed. The Civic Type R is the only car in its class to do this, says Honda, and it’s a boon for high-speed track work.

4. It’s usable every day

Previous Civic Type Rs have a reputation for being rather lairy. With uncompromisingly firm rides, twitchy steering and lots of tyre roar, even the most recent model was a trial on a long trip.
Not so with the new car, though. Fully independent and adjustable suspension means that, while you can tighten everything up for a firm, track-biased ride, it’s also remarkably comfortable on longer trips.
Combined with fabulous sports seats, space for five adults and a massive boot, the Civic Type R could really be a daily driver. It will even do 30mpg easily.

5. It’s British-built

That’s right – the new Civic Type R is built alongside other Honda models in the brand’s plant at Swindon. It’s produced alongside other massive volume-sellers like the CR-V and the standard Civic.
Honda’s had a plant in Swindon since 1992 and has already committed to remaining there post-Brexit, investing a massive £200m at the plant.
“We’ve gone through some tough times, during which we have consistently demonstrated our resilience. The workforce is hugely committed and we have shown great flexibility in adapting to situations,” said Jason Smith, Honda Swindon plant director.

6. It’s heading to the States

Our friends across the pond rejoiced when the news broke that Honda would offer the Type R in the USA. Until now, the North American market has been able to buy the Civic – but only in non-Type R saloon form.
The USA’s 25-year import law means it’s going to be a while before previous generations of Type R can be bought into the country, so the latest model really is a big deal. Consequently, it’s been massively popular, with some unscrupulous dealers selling cars for huge mark-ups.
Of course, US citizens only have to wait eight more years before they can begin importing the incredible EP3 generation Type R…

Checking your car’s engine oil level is absolutely essential – and the good news is anyone can do it quickly and easily.
However, if you neglect your duty, the engine can suffer major faults and you’ll be left wondering why you didn’t do something about it sooner while waiting to be rescued at the side of the road.
A spokeswoman for the AA said: ‘Modern cars use very little engine oil, but that’s not a reason for complacency. Oil loss can occur for a variety of reasons and not checking your car’s oil level can potentially be a disastrous and expensive mistake.’
So, to prevent disaster, here are the key steps for checking your car’s engine oil level.

1. Park on a level surface

In order to get an accurate oil level reading, you should park your car on a level surface. If the vehicle is parked on a slope, the oil will run to one side of the sump, which is unsuitable for measurement.

2. Make sure the engine is cool

When checking your car’s oil level, you need the engine to be cool. You should either carry out the check before starting the car or at least 10 minutes after switching the engine off. If the engine is warm, not all of the oil will have returned to the sump and you will get an inaccurate reading.

3. Open the bonnet

To check the oil level, you need to get under the bonnet. Look for a release latch inside the car’s cabin – usually in the driver’s footwell. Then go round to the front of the bonnet and put your hand into the open gap. There will be a lever, which you will need to push to one side. If it’s not obvious, check your car’s handbook. You will then be able to lift the bonnet and secure it in place with the bonnet support rod.

4. Locate the dipstick

Now that you’re looking at your car’s engine bay, you’ll need to find the oil dipstick. You’re looking for a ring-shaped piece of plastic on top of a thin vertical pipe. The ring-shaped part on top of the stick is usually a bright shade of yellow or orange.
If your car is front-wheel drive, the dipstick will be near the front of the engine. If your car is rear-wheel drive, the dipstick will be near the rear of the engine. If you cannot find the dipstick, look in your car’s handbook for its location.

5. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it

Once you have located the dipstick, put your index finger through the hole and grip it. Firmly pull the dipstick out of the pipe and hold it level. Take a clean rag (never paper towel) and wipe down the dipstick, cleaning the oil off in the process.

6. Put the dipstick back in the pipe

Having wiped down the dipstick, put it back into the pipe, making sure it goes in the same way round as before. This is because the pipe has a bend in it, and the dipstick is only designed to bend around it one way. If it gets stuck as it’s going in, turn it around and try again.

7. Pull out the dipstick again

As before, remove the dipstick from the pipe and hold it level. Look at the end of the dipstick and see where the oil film comes up to. There will be some form of markings to check the oil level against, such as L and H (low and high), Min and Max (minimum and maximum) or some crosshatching.

8. What to look for

The top of the oil streak should be between the two marks or within the crosshatching. If not, you will need to add oil. It’s also worth checking the colour of the oil, which should be black or brown. If it appears to be an unusually light colour, coolant may be leaking into the engine. The presence of metal particles would indicate engine damage. In either case, you should have the car towed to a mechanic’s workshop.

9. Topping up

If you do need to top the engine up with oil, check your handbook for the correct oil needed – they differ so make sure you do. Slowly pour it in the engine oil filler cap (this is different to the dipstick) and keep checking the oil level at regular intervals. Try 100ml at a time and leave time for it to sink to the sump.

10. Job done

If the level and colour are correct, and all appears to be in order, then you have no need to worry. Put the dipstick back in the pipe as before and close the bonnet – you’re good to go!

Since 1985, the BMW M5 has been the go-to super saloon. It was the first to really mix incredible performance with genuine everyday usability, and as time’s gone on each subsequent generation has been faster and more brutal than the last.
The latest car looks set to continue that trend.
With BMW’s experience in this sector, the new M5 should remain one of the front-runners for buyers who desire pace, grace, and space. Despite sharing quite a bit with the previous model, the new M5 is a marked step up in just about every way, thanks to some key changes and additions.

1. It’s insanely powerful

The latest BMW M5 uses a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine. It’s an updated version of the unit in the old car, and certainly doesn’t lack for performance – though some still lament the loss of the naturally aspirated engines in M5s of old.
The new car produces an incredible 592bhp. That’s 39bhp up on the old car, though it’s narrowly beaten by its main rival, the Mercedes-AMG E 63 S. Even so, the new M5 has enough power to trouble many supercars.
The Mercedes-AMG E 63 S produces 604bhp, and the Audi RS6 Avant 552bhp. Even the Audi R8 V10 Plus and McLaren 570S – outright supercars – ‘only’ push out 562bhp.

2. It’s four-wheel drive…

Traditionalists look away now – for the first time, BMW’s flagship super saloon will be driven by all four of its wheels. Ever since the first E28 model M5 was launched back in 1985, the saloon has been rear-drive only, but not any more.
The xDrive system is available on plenty of BMW models, but this is its first outing in a bonafide M car, giving BMW the chance to rival the Quattro and 4MATIC systems on its Audi RS6 Avant and Mercedes-AMG E63 S competitors.
The four-wheel drive system won’t be much help if you head off-road – but it aids traction in a launch start and can tighten up the car’s line in corners thanks to clever torque vectoring.

3. … but not all the time

That’s right, if you fancy some old-school tail-out action the M5 will oblige. A rear-drive only setting will be available, allowing you to go wild.
It’s similar to the Drift Mode available on cars like Ford’s Focus RS, though with so much more power the M5 should be correspondingly more spectacular.
Use with caution though, as this mode also disables the stability control and traction control, leaving you with no real safety net between your wheels and the savage engine.

4. The numbers are incredible

On paper, the new M5 is very, very fast indeed. 0-60mph should take around 3.2 seconds – around a second down on the old car – while top speed is limited to 155mph. Pay for the optional M Driver’s package and that goes up to 189mph.
That compares very well to supercars, with acceleration matching the McLaren 570S and Audi R8 V10 Plus. Top speed is a little down with both of those cars able to hit 200mph, but as you’d only be able to stretch that far on the Autobahn it doesn’t matter that much.
Other numbers worth mentioning are 750Nm of torque, and slightly less impressively, around 1,800kg in weight.

5. It’s totally adjustable

The new torque converter gearbox, adjustable dampers and engine tuning are all electronically controllable via BMW’s Drivelogic system. This will give drivers a vast array of choice when it comes to driving characteristics, and should allow for a true multi-purpose car – supple and comfortable in town, and pin-sharp and firm on track.
There are three settings each for the gearbox, engine, steering and chassis, and you can save your preferred setup under programmes accessible from the steering wheel.
However, we’d hope BMW would offer a few pre-set programs, so that you don’t have to be an expert in chassis dynamics to tune up your vehicle every time you pop to the shops.

6. It stops as well as it goes

Behind the two-colour 20-inch alloy wheels sit massive vented brake discs with new ‘compound’ brake pads. Said to be lighter and more effective than standard cast-iron ones, they’ll be recognisable by blue-painted calipers.
Clever air openings in the front bumper provide the brakes with plenty of cooling, even in what BMW calls ‘race track applications’.
Customers can also specify carbon ceramic brakes with stunning gold calipers. As well as being eye-catching, they’re lighter, weighing only 23kg. They also offer even better performance and won’t fade as quickly as conventional brakes.

7. It still flies under the radar

The new M5 will still attract attention from those who know what they’re looking for, but it’s not as brash and bold as the Audi RS6 Avant. Pick a dark colour and take it easy on the options list and you could almost call the new BMW M5 discreet.
BMW claims the M5 was designed with form after function, though it still looks sufficiently mean. It’s also been lightened – the bonnet is made of aluminium, while the roof is made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic.
Muscular wheelarches, aggressive front and rear splitters, big brakes and quad exhaust pipes mark it out from the standard 5 Series, though.

8. It’s expensive

Expect to pay just under £90,000 for a new M5 in its most basic form. However, trip into the options list with pricey extras like carbon-ceramic brakes and that price will easily shoot over £100,000.
That puts it on a par with the Mercedes-AMG E 63 S, which starts at £88,295, though it’s a way above the £79,545 Audi RS6 Avant. However, put it next to supercars with similar performance and the M5 begins to look like a bit of a bargain.
It’s £45,000 cheaper than the Audi R8 V10 Plus, for example, and £55,000 cheaper than the McLaren 570S. Plus, it offers far better long-distance comfort and genuine family practicality – albeit without the visual drama that a two-seat supercar provides.

When Mercedes-AMG dropped the insane SLS from its range, many fans shed a little tear. The SLS was enormous, expensive and about as discreet as a grenade launcher, but it was a truly special range-topper for the Mercedes range.
Then the new Mercedes-AMG GT came along – smaller, cheaper, and with less theatre thanks to conventionally opening doors, it nevertheless continued to fly the flag for front-engined supercars and in time has become a serious contender in a market flooded with Porsche 911s and Audi R8s.
And just like the 911, the AMG GT has spawned more focused, track-ready variants, and the peak of this is the hardcore AMG GT R.
Aimed squarely at the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Mercedes claims it’s as close to a race car for the road as it’s ever made. At least, until the Project One arrives…
Here are some essential facts you have to know about the Mercedes-AMG GT R…

1. It’s as fast as you’d expect

Adding power to a supercar has long been a good recipe to increase its speed, so it’s no surprise to find that Mercedes-AMG has fitted one of it’s more sophisticated powertrains to the GT R.
It packs a handcrafted 4.0-litre V8 engine, with two turbochargers placed in the ‘vee’ of the cylinders for better response. It makes an incredible 577bhp, good for a 0-60mph sprint of under 3.5 seconds.
Top speed is just shy of the magic 200mph mark but all the way there, you’ll be amazed at the brutality of that marvellous engine.

2. Comfort is very much an afterthought

Though the Mercedes-AMG GT R does have a ‘comfort’ mode, it’s still more hardcore than many other cars are on their most ferocious settings.
Unashamedly stiff, super sharp steering and a fantastic amount of noise from the engine mean this is definitely not a grand tourer in the same vein as the Aston Martin DB11 V8.
That’s not to say it’s totally unusable – the suspension does take the worst edge off bumps, and the race seats are fantastic.

3. It flies the flag for front-engined supercars

The GT R sits very much in its own little world when it comes to rivals. In terms of price and performance, it seems to rival cars like the McLaren 570S, Audi R8 and various iterations of the Porsche 911 – but none of them keep their engines in front of the driver.
In that sense, you could consider the Merc a rival to cars like the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Dodge Viper ACR (sadly discontinued) or Nissan GT-R Nismo.
Either that, or consider it a half-priced Ferrari 812 Superfast.

4. It’s a true AMG

AMG’s philosophies are alive and well in the GT R – particularly the ‘one man, one engine’ policy, which means each AMG engine is worked on by a single technician from start to finish.
Other AMG hallmarks include ‘form follows performance’ – easy to see on the GT R, where aerodynamic and performance additions are seemingly applied with a trowel.
AMG claims that even when stationary, its vehicles are ‘explicit about their true purpose’ – driving performance.

5. It’s been honed at the Nurburgring

More and more car manufacturers are choosing the Nurburgring to develop and fine-tune their cars, especially performance models. AMG is no exception, and the GT R is a Nurburgring veteran.
While there’s very little regulation of Nurburgring lap times, the GT R’s 7:10.9 is deeply impressive, and comes in almost four seconds faster than a Lexus LFA fitted with the Nurburgring package.
The GT R has had the Nurburgring in its sights from the beginning, and its incredible lap time proves that.

6. It’ll cost you a bundle… but it’s still cheaper than you might think

The AMG GT R starts from £140,545 – a pretty penny, and over £40,000 more expensive than its non-R sibling. But to look at the car’s price would be doing it a disservice.
Porsche’s 911 GT3 RS may have been cheaper to buy when new, starting from £131,296 – but it’s famously difficult to get hold of, and buyers often pay vastly inflated sums just to own one. Even now, used prices flit around the £200,000 mark.
Compare it to its mid-engined brethren and the GT R’s case gets even easier to justify. The McLaren 570S and Audi R8 V10 Plus skate just either side of the AMG – at £145k and £135k respectively. So expensive it may be, but the GT R is no more pricey to own than its main rivals.