Norton Way Corporate Magazine - August 2022 by Norton Way

AUG 2022

ISSUE 91

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

HONDA

HONDA UNVEILS ALL-NEW CIVIC TYPE R

onda has unveiled the all-new Civic Type R as it celebrates 25 years of the brand’s iconic high-performance hatchback – and 50 years of Civic. The new Type R has been engineered to deliver the most exhilarating Civic Type R experience to date, building on a long tradition of performance cars inspired by the spirit of racing. Available in Europe from early 2023, the Civic Type R is already setting new benchmarks, recently breaking the front-wheel drive lap record at Suzuka Circuit in Japan. As part of its development, Honda engineers refined every aspect of the new model, including design enhancements that improve aerodynamic performance. Lightweight components and powertrain revisions have created the most responsive and powerful Type R ever.

sits lower than before, with greater visibility over the lower bonnet, blind spots minimised, and reflective elements reduced. The lightweight front sports seats with suede-effect upholstery offer exceptional support for the driver’s postural structure to provide comfort and manoeuvrability on the track and during long drives. Drivers can seamlessly switch between performance settings, with pre-set modes for the engine, steering, suspension and engine sound. In addition to Comfort, Sport and +R modes, a new ‘Individual Mode’ has been introduced to enable customisation of the driving experience.

Performance-focused engineering enhancements

The Civic Type R is renowned for its powerful, highly responsive and high revving engines. The new model builds on the award-winning basis of its predecessor by evolving the 17YM Type-R’s famed engine even further to deliver the fastest, most addictive yet secure and rewarding drive in the model’s history. Changes are incremental with the revised turbocharger now featuring a compact housing to improve the overall unit efficiency. The turbine itself has had both its blade count and shape optimized to boost power and improve airflow through the turbo. This has resulted in the strongest VTEC turbocharged engine in the Type R’s engine. A revised, high-efficiency exhaust system works in conjunction with the above to improve the power-to-weight ratio, torque and top speed of the previous generation Type R and make the 2023 Civic Type R one of the most powerful per litre cars in its class. Helping drivers feel connected to their car is an optimised version of the six-speed manual transmission that helped the previous generation enamour fans around the world. A revised revmatch system with auto blip ensures perfectly paired rev-matching when shifting down through the gears, helping balance the car on corner entry. The high-strength gearbox has gained a highrigidity lever and optimized shift gate pattern for a reassured and hyper-precise gear change. The all-new Honda Civic Type R will go on sale on next year, with first deliveries to customers beginning in Europe from early 2023.

Powerful aerodynamic design

Developed under the model concept of creating the “Ultimate Sports 2.0,” the new Type R builds on sleek and sporty silhouette of the recently revealed Honda Civic e:HEV. To enhance the sportier look and elevate driving performance, the Type R is noticeably lower and wider in stance. The squat form is enhanced through wheel arches that flare out over lightweight 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, shod with bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. During development, Honda engineers worked to the concept of creating the “Ultimate Sports Design”: The ultimate expression of a high-performance, front-engine, front-wheel-drive car. The exterior design now conveys a sense of unity, with uncluttered details on the front and rear bumpers as well as beautifully integrated design features such as the rear doors and arches, which have all been exclusively developed for the Type R and bring improved aerodynamic benefits. Paint finish choices include the historic Championship White revered by Honda Type R enthusiasts, in addition to a solid Rallye Red, as well as Racing Blue, Crystal Black and Sonic Grey Pearls.

Immersive cockpit experience

The immersive cockpit is designed to support intense driving experiences: the driver 2

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

MAZDA

MAZDA ANNOUNCES LOW EMISSION IN-LINE SIX-CYLINDER DIESEL ENGINE FOR MAZDA CX-60

technology makes the new e-Skyactiv D unit one of the cleanest diesel engines in the world, achieving a thermal efficiency of over 40%. Developed using the ‘right sizing’ concept which optimises displacement to improve both fuel and power efficiency, the all-new 3,283cc longitudinally installed common rail electric direct injection six-cylinder e-Skyactiv D unit will be offered with a choice of two power outputs: 200ps with rear-wheel drive and 254ps with Mazda i-Activ AWD (all-wheel drive). Featuring a new 48v Mazda M Hybrid Boost system, the all-new diesel engine combines high output with excellent fuel economy. The new DCPCI technology is a highly innovative, advanced combustion system that improves engine efficiency, emissions and fuel economy. The 254ps e-Skyactiv D delivers impressive performance of 0-60mph in only 7.4 seconds and returns a WLTP average fuel consumption of 53.3mpg with CO2 emissions of 137g/km. The 200ps variant returns a WLTP average fuel consumption of 57.6mpg with CO2 emissions of only 127g/km. The in-line six-cylinder configuration produces

azda has revealed that a powerful, clean and efficient allnew e-Skyactiv D diesel engine will be added to the Mazda CX-60- line-up in 2023, joining the PHEV CX-60, which is available to order now. Another demonstration of Mazda’s ‘Multi-Solution Approach’, the new diesel is designed to meet the needs of customers who want an efficient, long distance driving car with great towing capacity. The company’s multi-solution strategy offers different products and technologies – including more efficient internal combustion engines and a wide range of electrified powertrains, that best suit the local market and society’s demand for sustainability. The new diesel powertrain that will make its debut in the CX-60 is a Mazda first – a 3.3-litre in-line six-cylinder e-Skyactiv D diesel engine that features Distribution-Controlled Partially Premixed Compression Ignition (DCPCI) Technology. This highly innovative advanced combustion 4 4

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

less vibration due to its characteristic ‘perfect balance’, for a smooth and quiet engine tone, whilst delivering a clean and engaging sound. The engine’s high torque delivery gives the CX-60 a 2,500kg trailer weight towing capacity, while as a result of its lightweight construction. An in-line straight-six 3.0-litre e-Skyactiv petrol engine will join the e-Skyactiv D and e-Skyactiv PHEV to complete the Mazda CX-60 powerplant line-up at a later date, offering customers the wide choice of technologically advanced, highly efficient powertrains appropriate to the outstanding levels of craftsmanship and on-board technology offered by the CX-60 model range. With the launch of the CX-60, Mazda takes another important step in its fleet’s emission reduction on its way to become entirely carbon neutral by 2050. In all, Mazda is launching five new electrified products in the next three years that feature its multi-solution platform architecture. In 2023, the company will launch a new model, the Mazda CX-80, which is larger than the Mazda CX-60 and features three rows of seating. With the all-new Mazda CX-60 PHEV available to order now for September delivery, the all-new Mazda CX-60 diesel will arrive in the UK in the first quarter of 2023.

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

NISSAN

NISSAN ARIYA NAMED AUTO EXPRESS 2022 CAR OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER

he new Nissan Ariya has been named a double winner at this year's Auto Express Awards, securing both the 'Best Mid-Sized Company Car' trophy and the coveted overall 'Car of the Year' title. Now available for customers to order, with a fully electric range of up to 329 miles, the Ariya features Japanese-inspired design, a luxurious and spacious cabin and advanced technologies. Andrew Humberstone, managing director at Nissan GB, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to receive this recognition for our incredible new 100% electric crossover and would like to thank the judges for this fantastic award. The Ariya perfectly encapsulates the design, tech and performance of our next generation EVs and will continue Nissan's pioneering journey in electrification and support our route to carbon neutrality." Auto Express' judges were keen to highlight the Ariya's all-round talents and praised the car's compelling blend of head-turning looks, premium appeal and composed driving dynamics, plus a range of well over 300 miles. For business users too, it was judged that "the newcomer goes straight to the top of the class". Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief of Auto Express, added: "The Ariya is the most premium-feeling Nissan we've seen yet, but it backs this up with impressive technology, punchy performance and clever storage. It mixes style and substance seamlessly, and is an advanced EV right for the modern era, as many motorists seriously consider - with many making the switch - to all-electric motoring. It's our Car of the Year 2022." Drawing on Nissan's leadership in electrification and segment-defining crossover capabilities, the Nissan Ariya seamlessly delivers advanced driving capabilities and a premium EV experience.

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

PEUGEOT

Road Test: Peugeot 308 PHEV Peugeot’s family car has grown up, but will PHEV know-how attract fleet drivers? John Challen reckons so. Peugeot is currently undergoing something in the way of a re-invention of itself in the UK. For starters, there’s a new company logo, an updated website and also a revamped corporate identity. And then there’s the cars. This includes a commitment to offer an electrified version of every model by 2024; a move that will hopefully help further improve Peugeot’s low-emission vehicle mix. Figures over the past few months indicate that the percentage within the French manufacturer’s portfolio was 19.4% by the end of 2021, while the YTD figure for 2022 was hovering around 21%. The new 308 is the latest product to help Peugeot meet its goals. The family car has been launched with its estate (308 SW) stablemate at the same time, but we’ll stick to the hatch for now. It has undergone a makeover inside and out and is now offered in petrol, diesel and hybrid form – with PHEV options available for the first time in 308. In addition, Peugeot says that an all-electric version is coming in 2023. Inside the cabin, the major highlights are the latest-generation i-Cockpit and i-Connect, for improved driver interaction and connectivity. There is also more room inside for driver and passengers – adding to the comfort levels and helped by an overall increase in length of 11cm. Safety-wise, there’s plenty of new technology onboard as standard including long-range (75m) blind spot monitoring and a 180° reversing camera

and 360° park assist. Depending on the trim level, there are plenty of other systems available, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automatic high beam and traffic sign recognition. Five trim levels are on offer. The base Active Premium model is well equipped, with 16-inch alloys, LED lights and a 10-inch infotainment screen. For an extra £1,850 and the Allure model drivers benefit from bigger alloys, ambient lighting and a connected 3D nav system, along with i-Connect voice assistant. Allure Premium adds Drive Assist 2.0 into the mix as well as wireless smartphone connectivity. The GT models see upgrades to wheels and some driver comfort features such as heated steering wheel and lumber support. Fleet drivers will be particularly interested in the two plug-in hybrid models, especially the 180 e-EAT8, with its 8% BiK rate. That model combines a 150hp PureTech engine with a 110hp electric engine motor. CO2 emissions are from 25g/km and there’s an electric-only range of up to 37 miles (WLTP). For a bit more power, there’s the 225 e-EAT-8 (BiK: 12%), powered by a 180hp engine and the same 110hp motor. There’s a slight increase in CO2 (26g/km) and drop in EV driving range (36 miles WLTP). Both versions feature a 12.4kWh lithium-ion battery and eight-speed manual gearbox. Petrol and diesel options are limited to one model each: the 1.2-litre PureTech 130 S&S EAT8 and 1.5-litre BlueHDi 130 S&S EAT8 respectively.

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

ŠKODA

First interior sketch revealed of ŠKODA's newest Concept Car: the VISION 7S

KODA AUTO presents a further preview of the brand’s forthcoming change in design language. The first interior sketch of the VISION 7S concept study reveals a spacious car for up to seven people that features an all-new, versatile interior architecture. Sustainable materials are used to create the minimalist interior. The new design language focuses on the inclusion of intuitive controls and digital technologies. The fully-electric VISION 7S is ŠKODA’s first concept car to feature the manufacturer’s new design language. The first sketch showcases the inside of the car. In addition to sustainable materials, the minimalist interior is characterised by generous space for up to seven people in three rows of seats and incorporates ŠKODA’s signature Simply Clever features. Head of ŠKODA Design, Oliver Stefani, explains: “The new design language is minimalist, functional and authentic. In the future, we will continue to focus on ŠKODA’s traditional strengths, such as generous space, easy usability and a high degree of functionality. With our new design language, we are taking the next step and placing even greater emphasis on the customer experience. The creativity of our designers and engineers is demonstrated through movable interior elements and newly developed Simply Clever features such as an integrated child seat. The deliberately minimalist lines also extend the clear exterior design into the interior.”

An optimally positioned hand rest makes interacting with the touch screen and haptic buttons easy and convenient. Haptic controls are integrated into the redesigned steering wheel. Ambient lighting highlights various areas of the interior, including charging status, and provides appropriate lighting when getting in and out of the car. The door panels also feature interactive haptic and visual elements. The integrated child seat is located in the centre console – the safest place in a vehicle. The backrests of the front seats are fitted with holders for multimedia devices for passengers in the second and third rows. These also have backpacks integrated into them.

Innovative sliding controls for different modes The spacious interior offers two distinct configurations to provide a new spatial experience for different situations – driving and relaxing. In driving mode, all the controls are set in their ideal positions and the central touchscreen is vertically aligned to display all the relevant information while driving. Relax mode can be activated when charging or stopping for a rest; the steering wheel and instrument cluster slide forward and the first and second row seats move back for an even more relaxed seating position. This option offers passengers maximum space and comfort. ŠKODA AUTO announced its new design language at its annual press conference in March earlier this year. The new design language is based on traditional brand values such as robustness, functionality and authenticity. The upcoming design language is characterised by spaciousness, durable and sustainable materials and an aerodynamic, efficient shape.

Innovative detail solutions

The interior of the new VISION 7S concept car features a symmetrical wrap-around design. A wide, horizontal dashboard that extends to the doors, enhances the sense of space.

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

GWR KIA

KIA RELEASES SKETCHES OF NEW XCEED AHEAD OF UPCOMING REVEAL Kia has revealed the first official sketches of the new XCeed compact crossover ahead of its reveal next week. The updated model will receive a sharp new exterior, an enhanced interior, an all-new sporty GT-line trim level, and a range of efficient and electrified powertrain options. As the best-selling member of the European-designed, -engineered, -built and -sold Ceed model family, the XCeed has been acclaimed by customers for its commanding driving position, dynamic handling and everyday practicality. A comprehensive range of enhancements will make it an even more enticing proposition in the popular C-Crossover segment. Joining a series of stylish exterior and interior improvements will come the option of a dynamic GT-line trim for the first time. This new variant will fuse the adventurous design cues of a crossover with the sporty vibe of a focused European hatchback. The arrival of the new XCeed will support Kia’s transition into a sustainable mobility solutions provider by being available with a range of highly efficient electrified powertrains, including mild-hybrid (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options. The latest advanced safety, connectivity and infotainment technologies will enhance everyday usability and enjoyment behind the wheel.

ALL-NEW KIA NIRO WINS ITS FIRST AWARD AT THE 2022 AUTO EXPRESS NEW CAR AWARDS

The all-new Kia Niro has been named ‘Small SUV of the Year’ at the annual Auto Express New Car Awards, earning its first award before customer deliveries start later this month. First introduced in 2016, Kia’s Niro crossover has been completely redesigned from the ground up to meet the complex and diverse needs of today’s environmentally conscious car buyers. The latest car features the same trio of state-of-the-art electrified powertrains – hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric – and features an interior made from a higher proportion of sustainable and recycled materials. There’s a powertrain to suit every customer need, with the all-new Niro Hybrid offering up to 64.2mpg and just 100g/km CO2. The all-new Niro PHEV is available with just eight per cent Benefit-in-Kind tax, which should appeal to company car drivers. And the all-new Niro EV offers up to 285-miles range (WLTP-combined). The Niro has become Kia’s second best-selling model in the UK, while the fully electric e-Niro – introduced in 2018 – accounts for 55 per cent of all Niro sales in the UK. During 2021 the e-Niro was also the second best-selling pure electric vehicle in the entire UK market. Kia’s bold plans for vehicle electrification pushed the brand to its bestever electrified sales in 2021 and 2022 year-to-date, with electrified vehicles accounting for more than one in three vehicles sold. The brand also now offers 10 electrified (hybrid, plug-in-hybrid and electric) models – one of the most comprehensive electrified line-ups in the UK today. The all-new Niro EV sits alongside the EV6 and Soul EV in Kia’s fully electric line-up. Globally, Kia plans to introduce 14 fully-electric models by 2027. 12

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

All-new MG4 EV confirmed for September debut on new MSP platformt

G Motor UK has revealed the first official UK images of its allnew MG4 EV, ahead of the launch in September. The key new model will utilise MG’s innovative Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) - state of the art battery architecture that will underpin the next generation of MG models. Designed for a wide range of vehicles, the MSP can be used flexibly in models across different vehicle segments, from hatchbacks to SUVs and sports cars – suitable for wheelbases ranging from 2,650 to 3,100 mm. The manufacturer has also revealed its new integrated battery structure has a height of just 110mm, enhancing roadholding and driver engagement even further. The MG4 EV marks a bold new direction for MG Motor UK, with the company underlining an enhanced driving experience derived from a new rear-wheel drive platform which allows 50:50 weight distribution. The new MSP has been designed to maximise battery efficiency, with concerted efforts to further reduce weight and allow scalable range and performance for a wide variety of customer requirements, offering enhanced interior space

and luggage capacity. Initially available with battery capacities from 51kWh to 64kWh, the MG4 EV will be capable of between 218-281 miles range on the WLTP cycle. MG has adopted a progressive strategy when designing its new platform; the architecture allows integration with future technologies including battery swap systems, while the Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) will enable vehicles to receive Over-The-Air (OTA) updates throughout their lifecycle. David Allison, Head of Product & Planning at MG Motor UK, said: “The MG4 EV is a key part of the next phase of growth for MG. Our new MSP architecture will enable us to offer multiple options for the rapidly expanding UK electric car market, with all choices reinforcing our reputation for outstanding design, market-leading technology, and excellent value for money.” The announcement marks a pivotal moment for MG, following the sales success of its existing range of pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, with the brand growing by 83% in the first five months of 2022 in market which has contracted by 8.7%* during the same period. Further details on the new MG4 EV will be released soon, including announcements on UK pricing, full specifications and official first UK viewings. 14 4 1

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

EXPLORE THE MG RANGE TODAY 

NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

BIKES

CHISWICK HONDA'S SUMMER BIKE MEET FEATURING JOHN MCGUINNESS Sunday 7th August Ride down, hang out, and have some food on us whilst celebrating the British MotoGP

e are proud to host a summer meetup event and we would love for you to attend. John McGuiness will be joining us for the day! Come and meet him for photos, conversation and all things bikes. We will be providing lunch for anyone who attends along with complementary professional bike pictures, there is also the chance to win a £500 voucher for the best-looking bike, chosen by John McGuinness! Which can be spent at our onsite Infinity Motorcycle shop or within our dealership towards a new bike, part, accessory or service cost.

Highlights MEET JOHN MCGUINNESS

Don't miss out on the opportunity to meet the legend that is John McGuinness. His impressive list of Isle of Mann TT accolades now includes 100 starts, the current lap record holder, 23 wins, and 44 podiums.

100TH TT RACE START FIREBLADE

To celebrate John's 100th Isle of Man TT race start. Honda racing and associated sponsors came together to create a unique livery for the race on the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. This bike will be at Chiswick Honda for the day

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NORTON WAY CORPORATE • ISSUE 91 • AUGUST 2022

100TH TT RACE START FIREBLADE

COMPLIMENTARY PROFESSIONAL BIKE PICTURES Our photographer will be at Chiswick Honda for the day and will be available to take pictures. It's the perfect opportunity for you to get some professional pictures with your bike. We will share the pictures via a link after the event!some tasty gourmet burgers.

WIN A £500 VOUCHER

Bring your bike along and you could win a £500 voucher to spend at our on-site Infinity Motorcycle shop or within our dealership towards a new bike, part, accessory or service cost. John McGuinness will be picking the winner by deciding who has the best-looking bike.

DON'T MISS OUT! BOOK YOUR PLACE TODAY AND WE WILL SEE YOU AT THE EVENT. 

HAVE LUNCH WITH US

We will be serving lunch to anyone that attends our meet for the day. We will make sure to provide some tasty gourmet burgers. 17

Norton Way Corporate Department Unit 1 Arlesey Business Park, Mill Lane, Arlesey, Beds SG15 6RF Tel: 01462 754 700 www.nortonway.com

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