Vans, Cars and Leasing

A new bull is charging in – and here are the pictures to prove it. This spectacular machine is Lamborghini’s ‘family’ supercar, the four-seater Estoque. It opens a new door for the Italian company – not least because it will be the first Lambo in history with a diesel engine!

Revealed at the Paris Motor Show, the four-door saloon will join the Porsche Panamera and Aston Martin Rapide to form a trio of brand new super saloons. The Estoque takes its name from a type of sword used by bullfighters – although, far from killing the bull, this car will more than double Lambo’s sales by entering the brand into a new niche. And in addition to a V10 engine, the company is planning oil-burning and hybrid powerplants, too.

A modern interpretation of the firm’s original four-seater, the Espada, the Estoque draws on the Gallardo and Murciélago supercars. Its aluminium composite body is full of sharp angles and menacing geometric shapes. Inside, inspiration comes from the Reventón – Lamborghini’s special-edition Murciélago – with a fighter jet-style dashboard. In the back are two seats offering plenty of legroom and a 450-litre boot.

Underneath the skin lies an all-new aluminium and composite chassis, while up front is a 5.2-litre V10 from the Gallardo LP 560-4, which is mounted as far behind the front wheels and as low as possible. A rear differential gives 55:45 weight distribution.

The engine drives all four wheels through a seven-speed double-clutch gearbox, but the motor hasn’t simply been transplanted unchanged from the Gallardo. Engineers have lengthened the intake manifold, and while peak power is down at around 500bhp, torque goes up to 560Nm.

Lamborghini hasn’t quoted any performance figures, yet a top speed of 200mph and a 0-60mph time of around five seconds is likely. In addition to the 5.2-litre V10, the firm is considering a wide variety of engines based on those within the VW Group, including a V8 petrol, a V8 TDI and a petrol-electric hybrid. “This car gives us the chance to explore new avenues,” Maurizio Reggiani, director of research and development, told Auto Express. “A diesel engine would not be right for the Gallardo or Murciélago, but the Estoque is the perfect platform.” The oil-burner is most likely to be a high-performance version of the 4.2-litre TDI used in the Audi A8. It would make the Estoque a unique proposition in its class, offering a combination of performance and economy unlike any previous Lambo. Likely to go on sale in 2012, the Estoque will carry a price tag in excess of £150,000.

The Vauxhall Insignia which is believed to become the UK’s best mid-size car just recently made its debut at the recent British International Motor Show sponsored by Zurich Connect running from July 23 to August 3, 2008. Set with stunning dynamic styles and clever designs, the Insignia is a sure magnet to the attention of the visitors and car enthusiasts visiting the show.

The initial price for the Exclusive Package of the Insignia as announced in the show is £15,935 for the Petrol 140 PS 1.8 liter ECOTEC and £16,935 for the 2.0-liter diesel engine. The exclusive model has the standard equipments that include automatic headlights, ESP, electrically controlled four-way lumbar support and driver’s seat adjuster, single zone climate control, cruise control, Isofix, and ABS. For safety the Insignia features a front, side, and curtain airbags. A Front Camera System that reads road signs and alerts the driver when driving out of the lane is another special feature of the Insignia along with the AFL lighting and a heated wash system for the windshields.

Taking the view from the outside, Insignia can be easily recognised because of its new-look Vauxhall Griffin badge and new chrome grille giving accent to its almost perfectly sculpted body. Its Inteligent Adaptive Forward Lighting technology and its destinctive and unique designs for the front and rear lights let the people to identify an Insignia even at night. The blade shaped bonnet has a waterfall design for a dynamic and more emotional feel. The aerodynamic design of the front gives a sporty look and a low drag coefficient of 0.27 that enhances fuel efficiency and better control performance even at optimum speed. The side shows a silhouette in sculpted roof that’s more of a coupe than being a saloon or hatchback. The wheel arch has a balance design that can fit both the 19” and 20” wheels.

The Insignia is launched with five engine choices that are all Euro 5 compliant. The first three options are the petrol engines ranging from 140 to 260PS and the two 2.0-liter turbo-diesels having either 130 or 160PS. All these have low CO2 emissions and fuel consumptions. The chassis holding the engines and the entire Insignia gives more comfort and better control. The steering and suspensions both in front and rear are well secured giving a smoother ride. For added comfort, the Insignia offers the new FlexRide system that lets the driver to choose a chassis setup according to his/her driving style. The driver can choose from Standard, Tour, and Sport settings. The Standard is the standard ride setting, while the Tour sets to a more relaxed setting and the Sport gives a firmer suspension for sport riding such as the 4-wheel drive. The turbo charged petrol engine of Insignia enables an all-wheel drive and uses the system called Adaptive 4X4.

The interiors of the Insignia gives and inviting, elegant, and sporty look aside from the comfort and safety that it offers. The infotainment system unit in front of the driver has new interfaces and useful navigation features. The FlexRide switch is located just below the Infotainment monitor and below it is the climate control panel that individually controls the air vents in front and rear passenger areas. The instrument cluster has a customizable lighting color that matches the FlexRide setting. The comfortable seats have both manual and electric adjustments for height and lumbar supports. The lines and curvatures inside the Insignia give an aerodynamic feel that makes the passengers feel like floating in the air.

Both the interior and exterior of the Insignia are aerodynamically designed. These designs are the product of years of development inside the wind tunnel before the Insignia was finalized. Owning this car gives you the feeling of highness and its aerodynamic design will let you fly if you can catch its high-flying price.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services Ltd
Vauxhall Leasing - Vauxhall Insignia Leasing

The Land Rover Freelander is a compact SUV from the subsidiary of Tata Motors, the British Land Rover. The company is now producing the second generation model named the Freelander 2 or LR2. The latest edition of the Freelander is hitting the Middle East and North American markets.

The Rover Group conceptualized the original design of the Freelander in late 1980s after doing market researches that suggested the creation of compact off-roaders. The Rover Group was about to develop the Freelander project in early 1990s when they had a limited budget for its product development. To battle it out the Rover looked for a partner for the development of the Freelander. Their formal partner, the Honda has declined to join the project but came out with the similar Honda CR-V in 1997. With their failure to find a partner the Rover Group decided to go alone with the development of the Freelander that they named CB40 with their limited available resources. They come up with a unique suspension, transmission, and body construction. The Freelander was launched in 1997 after several years of development from their limited parts bin. In 1994, the BMW took over the operation of the Rover Group but not with the development of the Freelander.

The cost cutting done in the old Freelanders was retorted when the early Freelanders were found to be suffering from several inconsistencies such as clutch failure, head gaskets problem, and electrical problems. The new Freelander has seen a change in design and improvements in the problem areas of the past and this has accounted for the vehicle remaining on top when it comes to sale value. The Freelander was the best-selling 4×4 in Europe.

One notable feature of the Freelander was the hill descent control system that was first used in this model of the Land Rover. This system uses the ABS to give an off road Traction Control system and to individually control the brakes while maintaining better driving control in off road terrains. The Freelander was out of the production line after its poor sales in 2006 in U.S. and Canada.

The second generation of Freelander or the Freelander 2 was developed not to save the original Freelander from shame. The Freelander 2 is another unique development but only carrying the original Freelander nameplate. This new generation model was first seen in 2006 British International Motor Show and initially marketed in Europe and eyeing the future sales in the markets of North America. Before the actual launching of the LR2, journalist had a preview of the Freelander 2 in a private presentation held at Kensington Roof Gardens that also featured Maria Sharapova, a celebrity tennis player.

The Freelander 2 used the Ford EUCD platform that is also used by the Ford Galaxy, Volvo S80, and Ford S-MAX. The Freelander 2 used power engines like the same transversely mounted engine used in Volvo SI6 series, the 3.2 V6 engine that was first used in Volvo S8. Other LR2 models also used the 2.2 DW12 engines, a common rail turbo diesel that was collaboratively developed by PSA and Ford. The latest Freelander had some improvements in its ground clearance and off-road capabilities matching other Land Rover models. The interiors also had some major enhancements and added with some standardized safety features. The Terrain Response system used in Discovery 3 and Range Rover was also used in Freelander 2 with some modifications to fit the new model.

The Freelander 2 reached the U.S. market in 2007. The latest 2008 version known as the LR2 HSE is another innovation on the Freelander 2 that uses 19” wheels and with additional side trims. All the Freelander 2 models use the six-speed automatic transmission and the all-wheel drive capacity. Latest innovations include the Technology Package, Lighting Package, and the Cold Climate Package.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services Ltd
Land Rover Contract Hire - Land Rover Freelander Leasing

The Jaguar XF is the latest sports sedan or mid-size luxury car from Jaguar Cars. First seen in 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Jaguar XF was formally launched in 2008 with its first unit delivered to their customer in March 2008. The new XF took over the place of its predecessor—the S-Type. The development of the XF is done in Coventry, UK and its production line is in Castle Bromwich, Birmingham, UK. The Jaguar XF was named the Car of the Year by the prestigious “What Car?” magazine in January 2008. Another award, the Car of the Year 2008 award was given to the Jaguar XF by the “What Diesel?” magazine. XF was also named The Best Executive Car 2008.

Before the actual launching of the Jaguar XF, Jaguar Cars has already come up with the Concept-XF or the Jaguar C-XF. This concept car was first exhibited in the North American International Auto Show held at Detroit, Michigan. The C-XF served as the preview of the now released Jaguar XF model. The C-XF design that was unveiled in January 3, 2007 had the newest design strategy that departed from the retro designs of the classic cars and other predecessors of the Jaguar C-XF. The design of the final Jaguar XF just had a little variation from the C-XF design that is notable in the nose and its front lights. The mesh grille carrying the Jaguar badge is still present serving as the distinctive feature of all the Jaguar cars. The exterior is somewhat amazing almost resembling the concept car. The XF wheels are also designed to fit the car’s visual exteriors. Several mags and wheel designs are available for future exterior modifications. The XF wheels are available in 18” and 19” alloy construction. The Supercharged car is the only car of this type that can be fitted with its standard 20” alloy wheels.

The interior of the XF gives a relaxing and luxurious mood to its riders. The driver-friendly 7” touch-screen control makes driving easier and more comfortable. The blue phospor halo illumination that emphasizes the XF instruments and meters make it more relaxing to the eyes at night. The XF has an automatic climate control system that includes the rotating vents that slowly and quietly roll and almost disappear when not in use. Taking the place of a manual or automatic transmission selector is the drive selector or rotary dial that pops out when pressing the engine start or stop button. This is the latest shift-by-wire technology that gives precise shifting and at the same time adding to the picturesque view of the interior. Most of the interiors are made with exquisite wooden materials with modern aluminum linings and leather seats showing the finest craftsmanship used by the XF. The interior lightings are activated and controlled by touching the lights’ plastic covers.

The Jaguar XF cars are available in different engines ranging from 2.7-liter and 3.0 V6 Diesel and Petrol to the 4.2-liter V8 Petrol Natural and Supercharged. The 4.2-liter V8’s compact and lightweight construction is the most used engine because of the big performance that it offers in its small all-aluminum construction. The V8 uses four valves per cylinder and four overhead camshafts in its variable camshaft phasing. The natural V8 can give 310 lb-ft torque and 300 bhp in an effortless performance. The supercharged can give 413 lb-ft torque and 420 bhp with its rotor-type supercharger. The XF’s transmission uses a six-speed automatic transmission system with superb character. The automated system responds to the way the car is driven and according to the road conditions in giving the smoothest gearshift. The drive selector in the driver’s panel is another latest innovation in transmission that is used by the XF.

If you want to combine luxury and comfort in your sports car then you better be ready with the leap of the Jaguar XF. Check your local dealers for their latest Jaguar XF.

Written on behlf of Total Fleet Services Ltd
Jaguar Leasing - Jaguar XF Contract Hire

The very latest edition of the 911 family is here! These are the first official pictures of the 911 Targa, and as you can see, it’s got a touch of glass.

The Targa sports a distinctive glass sliding roof, which gives occupants the open-air experience come rain or shine. The two-piece roof features specially-treated glass to cope with harsh UV rays, but when the sun’s not so glaring, the roof slides back in just seven seconds for the full wind-in-the-hair experience.

Under the skin it’s much the same as the new generation of 911s, with the new PDK double clutch drivetrain and direct fuel injection flat six engines in 345bhp 3.6 and 385bhp 3.8-litre guise.

The Targa 4 and Targa 4S will benefit from Porsche’s Traction Management (PTM) system which delivers power to all four wheels via a mechanical limited slip diff.

Expect to see the new Targa in UK showrooms from October 25, priced from £72,980.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services Ltd
Porsche Leasing - Porsche 911 Leasing

Meet the car that makes a Bugatti Veyron seem slow! It’s called the GT9 – and can claim to be one of the fastest roadgoing models ever made.

German tuner 9ff has been developing the Porsche-based machine for a number of years. But this is the first time pricing and details have been released.

The front end is borrowed from a 911 GT3, although the rest of the chassis is unique, and has been constructed using strong yet lightweight carbon and kevlar fibre. With its low roof, the car is only 1.18 metres tall, while an extreme bodykit practically scrapes the road surface. Both features are crucial to help achieve the 254mph top speed – 1mph higher than a Veyron!

Under the bonnet, the GT9’s engine is sourced from the 996-generation Porsche 911 Turbo. Reworked turbos, dry sump lubrication and a gold-finished induction plate boost power to 973bhp and torque to 964Nm. And as the car weighs only 1,326kg, it should cover 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds.

Potential buyers need to be just as quick to get their hands on a GT9, though – only 20 examples will be made, each with a price tag of £394,000.

The lid has been lifted on Honda’s green future! The Japanese firm wowed crowds at the British Motor Show with its stunning OSM (Open Study Model) concept.

Making its world debut here in London, the rakish two-seater points the way toward an eco-friendly successor to the company’s S2000 roadster.

Penned by staff at the manufacturer’s design studio in Frankfurt, Germany, the newcomer claims to offer class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions, thanks to slippery aerodynamics and a lightweight construction. Bosses at the company also hinted that the model could get a powerful hybrid powerplant.

Take a look at the OSM, and it’s clear that style is as important as its environmental credentials. The shark-like nose features a gaping grille and slim wraparound headlamps, while the gently rising waistline sweeps up to a high-set tail. Here you’ll find distinctive LED rear lights that run the full width of the car.

Climb aboard, and the sporty theme continues to the cabin. The two heavily bolstered seats are low set and trimmed in blue leather. In front of the driver is a cowled binnacle packed with dials that are illuminated with a cool blue light.

No official announcements have been made about what’s under the bonnet, although a hybrid powerplant is likely. This would be connected to a semi-auto gearbox operated via a normal lever or paddles behind the steering wheel.

Bosses at Honda claim that this concept won’t make production. But with the hybrid CR-Z coupe getting the green light and the hydrogen-powered FCX now on sale, a showroom ready OSM could appear within the next five years.

Take a look at the eagerly anticipated V10-powered replacement for Honda’s NSX.

The grand tourer – which wears the badge of the firm’s Acura luxury arm in our pictures – is due in 2010. It’s expected to cost £100,000, and will challenge the Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Maserati GranTurismo and Jaguar XKR.

Its 5.5-litre V10 generates upwards of 600bhp and around 600Nm of torque, which is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed twin-clutch gearbox. When cruising, five of the 10 cylinders are deactivated to save fuel and cut emissions. Our insider revealed Honda has taken ideas from its Formula One programme to generate maximum downforce and straight-line stability. That enabled the coupé to set a record time of seven minutes and 37 seconds for a lap of the Nürburgring track in Germany on its first attempt.

Honda achieved this by focusing on aerodynamics – and the biggest secret to the performance is hidden under the car. According to our spies, the rear section of the coupé resembles one big wing.

The newcomer will tip the scales at around 1,500kg – that’s over 250kg less than the recently launched Nissan GT-R.

There’ll be an all-new Mexican flavour at the British Motor Show! Sports car manufacturer Mastretta will be there with its 150mph MXT coupe, the first car ever to be designed and built in Mexico.

It makes its world debut in London on July 22, in ‘penultimate prototype’ form. RHD production is expected to start in January 2009, and is limited to 80 cars per year.

It’ll be worth getting your name down quick, though. As well as its impressive top speed, the MXT can hit 60mph in under five seconds and its 2.0-litre supercharged Duratec engine produces 240bhp. With the car weighing just 900kg, that means 267bhp per tonne – almost 50bhp more than a Porsche Cayman S manages.

The Mastretta also vastly undercuts the German coupe, with a price tag of £32,995. You can see it on Stand N10 at the ExCeL arena.

Honda has lifted the lid on its next S2000 roadster – and it will have you going green! The Honda OSM (Open Study Model) shown in this official sketch will be unveiled at next week’s British Motor Show as an eco-friendly concept car. But the sleek drop-top also gives us a tantalising early look at the forthcoming S2000.

Officially a ‘design study’ at this early stage, Honda will use the OSM to “gather feedback from customers at the show to guide any future developments”.

That means the Japanese firm is intent on making the next S2000 a seriously desirable sports car when it hits the showrooms in 2010. And judging by this concept, Honda looks like it could have another big success on its hands.

The new car will be as green as it is good looking, thanks to a number of mechanical and aerodynamic features designed to reduce consumption and emissions. Honda will reveal all at the expo, but an efficient, lightweight petrol engine – possibly boosted by a small electric unit – will sit inside a body featuring class-leading aerodynamics.

Shaped by up-and-coming young designers at Honda’s studios in Offenbach, Germany, the OSM will sit alongside the zero-emissions FCX Clarity fuel cell car and the CR-Z hybrid sportscar – both making UK debuts at the British Motor Show.