Norton Way Corporate Magazine - November 2022

ALL-NEW CIVIC E:HEV AWARDED CAR OF THE YEAR

In the yearly Parkers New Car Awards, the all-new Honda Civic e:HEV was selected Best Medium Family Car and Car of the Year 2023. Parkers evaluates all of the newest vehicles available on the market and offers reviews and data to help the general public with their car-buying experience. Each year, the Parkers automotive specialists narrow down the best vehicles in a variety of categories and present their top picks with assistance from the CAR and Fleet News teams. The shortlist can be as long as you like, and the categories are extremely competitive. The following requirements must be met in order for a car to be eligible for nomination:

• Be driven by the Parkers team of car experts

• Be on sale in the UK

• Have agreed finance in place

Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile at Honda UK commented “We are delighted that the team at Parkers have recognised the merits of the all-new Civic e:HEV. The team at Honda have worked tirelessly to deliver a sleek and sporty design focused on driving dynamics and functionality. To win the overall Car of the Year 2023 award is a huge accolade and proves that this car, in its eleventh generation, after 50 years on sale, is just as popular as ever.”

Keith Adams, Editor at Parkers, commented “Taking the top honours in the Parkers New Car Awards 2023 is a remarkable achievement for a fuel-sipping family hatchback in an increasingly electrified world. It's a reflection of just how effective the Japanese firm's excellent hybrid drivetrain is, proving you don't need to plug in to get great efficiency and low running costs. In short, the Honda Civic is an outstanding Parkers Car of The Year – and we think you’ll agree, too.”

The Civic e:HEV was recognised as the "Best Medium Family Car" in addition to winning the title of "Car of the Year" in a very competitive category. The Civic e:HEV was picked as the champion in this category due to its ability to carry four people in comfort, good access, cutting-edge safety technology, low operating costs, and delightful driving experience. The winners are chosen based on their suitability for purpose.

Keith Adams, Editor at Parkers, commented “The brand-new Honda Civic is a revelation. It’s spacious inside, has a large, well-shaped boot, and you’ll find a very trick self-charging hybrid system that achieves excellent real-world fuel economy in combination with 184hp performance. Honda has clearly lavished an enormous amount of attention on the chassis and suspension, and it shows – what really impresses us is how thoroughly well engineered it feels to drive.”

To give you an introduction to the Mazda CX-60 and its design, technology and driving prowess, motoring journalist James Batchelor spent a day with the car.

First impressions count and, with the latest interpretation of Mazda’s unique Kodo design language, the all-new CX-60 doesn’t disappoint. Its bold Japanese aesthetics combine a long bonnet and compact rear for a very distinctive look - James describes it as “sat back on its haunches and is really powering forward.”

Numbers support the impression of the car's power; the petrol engine and electric motor combined produce 327ps and 500Nm of torque. This gives the Mazda CX-60 outstanding performance on the road; it accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.8 seconds.

You can choose from several drive modes to select how to maximise the performance of the CX-60: In order to provide the most efficient driving experience, Normal mode balances the battery, motor, and engine. In contrast, Sport mode maximises the combined output and eight-speed automatic gearbox for improved responsiveness and all-wheel drive (AWD) performance. Towing mode detects when you've

hitched up to a caravan or trailer, and Off-road mode optimises the AWD and Traction Control System to give you the maximum traction and grip.

“The beauty of having a plug-in hybrid powertrain,” explains James, “is that there is a choice of two different power sources.” This means that you can choose EV mode and drive for up to 39 miles on pure electric power, which will easily cover most people’s daily commute. And with the inclusion of rapid charging, it takes just 90 minutes to charge the 17.8 kWh high-capacity battery from 20 to 80 percent.

“Mazda hasn't forgotten that this is a Mazda at heart—it’s very fun to drive.”

On the road, you'll experience the distinctive Jinba Itai driving qualities of the Mazda CX-60. It might be Mazda's largest SUV, but Mazda hasn't lost sight of the fact that this is a Mazda at its core, making it a lot of fun to drive, according to James. The chassis is "energetic," according to James, and the steering is "light and accurate," all of which contribute to an engaging driving experience that gives you a sense of security.

Another one of James' highlights is the CX-60's interior. He says it is "exquisitely finely

constructed" and "brimming with gorgeous design touches." By carefully choosing premium materials and textures to highlight the excellence of the craftsmanship, Mazda's designers created the interior in accordance with the Japanese notion of Ma.

James was also impressed with the leading technology debuting on the CX-60. The Mazda Driver Personalisation System** can store settings for up to six different drivers, automatically adjusting key features such as the seat, steering wheel, climate control, and 10” x 3” windscreenprojected Active Driving Display. Using a facial recognition camera, the system can identify the driver and immediately return to their preferred settings each time they get in to drive.

So what was James’ conclusion about the all-new Mazda CX-60? Its exterior design “really does stand out from the crowd,” while the interior was a “real highlight” thanks to “lots of lovely little design touches” and the “clever technology on board.” On the road, James found the plug-in hybrid “both powerful and efficient to drive.” Overall, his verdict is that the all-new Mazda CX60 is “one desirable SUV.”

THE NEW NISSAN ARIYA WINS ‘BEST LARGE ELECTRIC CAR’ IN CARBUYER BEST CAR AWARDS

The New Nissan ARIYA continues to thrive and today has been awarded ‘Best Large Electric Car’ by Carbuyer in their Best Car Awards 2023.

Richard Ingram, Editor of Carbuyer commented: "Nissan set the EV benchmark when it launched the Leaf back in 2011, and it does the same in the large electric car segment a decade on.

“The Ariya feels futuristic, with a good range, spacious cabin and loads of clever tricks and features. It’s a brilliant all-rounder if you’re looking for a big car and want to make the switch."

The ARIYA represents Nissan's most thrilling advancement in its electrification process. The much awaited all-electric crossover, which debuted this year, provides a classy and comfortable driving experience. Nissan has combined its expertise in electric vehicles and crossovers to produce a vehicle that reimagines electric motoring and provides customers with an upgraded, lifestyle-focused electric drive.

Andrew Humberstone, Managing Director, Nissan Motor (GB) added: “I am delighted to see that the rest of the industry is as excited about ARIYA as we are. This ground-breaking new model has joined an incredibly competitive segment yet stands out for all the right reasons. ARIYA is smooth and comfortable to drive, whilst also being stylish, modern and intuitive. It is the perfect option for customers looking for a premium electric vehicle”.

The car features several striking design elements that honour Nissan's Japanese heritage. Aerodynamic efficiency is smartly increased by the exterior's clean lines, while the interior's kumiko-style pattern and clever permutations give it a lounge-like feel.

Nissan's commitment to safety is still emphasised by ARIYA. The most recent driverassistance technologies are installed in it, including ProPILOT with Navi link, Nissan Safety Shield 360, Intelligent Around View Monitor, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Emergency Lane Keeping, Intelligent Emergency Braking, and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking.

Peugeot at the Paris automotive show 2022

After four years the international motor show in Paris has returned. Not every brand attended, but for certain newcomers this was an opportunity to showcase their products in Porte de Versailles from the 17th23rd of October.

The French motor show exhibited the line-up of new products from the attending automotive brands. Peugeot, one of the “home” brands at the show, presented the new 408 plug-in hybrid fastback, the electric 208 and the PEUGEOT e-Streetzone electric scooter. The 408 fastback is the first of its kind in the automotive C-segment market and demonstrates Peugeot’s inventiveness when it comes to designing new cars. The electric 208 and e-Streetzone scooter provided further proof that Peugeot is serious about electrifying its mobility solutions and demonstrates the brand’s strategy to become a leader in the electric market with a 100% electrified line-up.

Peugeot designed a remarkable stand, located in Hall 4, with an area comprising 900m2 where, in a world premiere, they showcased three products under the brand’s banner “Everything is more beautiful with Allure".

When considering electrification, PEUGEOT is well ahead of lawmakers. In 2030, 100% of the brand's models sold in Europe will be fully electric, a projection that is five years ahead of the regulatory requirements. And from 2023, all PEUGEOT cars will be fitted with an electrified powertrain, driven by propulsion units that are either 100% electric, powered by a hydrogen fuel

cell, or plug-in hybrids / rechargeable hybrids. The Peugeot electric range will see the addition of the 3008 & 5008 with updated hybrid power trains to complete the line-up. Peugeot have continuously developed their battery technology allowing for performance improvements, such as range per kWh. This means, according to WLTP test procedures, that the new E208 can travel 100km using just 12 kWh of energy. That is a benchmark performance in the electric B segment.

The highlight at the show for many was “La Sphère”. An amazing transparent round structure 6 meters tall inside which the 408 fastback was choreographed to appear for visitors as a floating entity in the air. The “La Sphère” was first presented to the public back in July at the Louvres Lens.

On a dedicated stand in Hall 3, visitors were able to take a look at hydrogen fuel cell technology: the PEUGEOT E-EXPERT HYDROGEN was on display and also available for dynamic testing around the show. This new fuel technology is particularly well suited for heavy-duty commercial vehicles. The attractiveness of the hydrogen fuel cells is their capacity to recharge the battery powered vehicle in three minutes to a full charge. This is an advantage over normal battery powered electric vehicles that need longer periods for charging. A fact that business users will take into consideration for their fleet.

The hybrid hypercar 9x8 that will race at Le Mans in 2023 was another star of the show. The racing project is a technology laboratory for the current and future road cars.

Finally, PEUGEOT gave visitors to the show the opportunity to meet some of its most prestigious partners during the public days: drivers of the PEUGEOT 9X8 Hybrid Hypercar, players from the Stade Toulousain and Miss France 2022.

The ŠKODA FABIA has been named Best First Car in the annual Parkers New Car Awards. The compact yet feature-packed Czech supermini fought off tough competition to be named as the number one car to buy for new drivers.

Since the first model of the FABIA was introduced in the UK in 2000, new drivers have favoured it for its excellent road manners, striking styling, and smooth drivetrain. The newest, fourthgeneration model, which entered the UK last year, is now acknowledged as offering the finest overall value for drivers shopping for their first automobile.

Explaining why the FABIA hit the mark with the Parkers judging panel, Keith Adams, Editor of Parkers said: “The FABIA is an incredibly wellrounded small car that makes a sound choice for those just starting out. You’ll find plenty of room inside for your friends and family plus a generously proportioned boot for the class.”

The judging panel also praised the FABIA’s simple but refined driving experience, with Adams adding: “It’s easy and pleasant to drive, with a good balance between comfort, handling and decent performance. Specify some flashy alloy wheels and loud paint from the options and it looks the bees' knees.”

The new model continues to set the industry standard for spaciousness, value, and quality and is the first FABIA to be built on the Volkswagen Group's modular MQB-A0 platform. The new Fabia, like its predecessors, offers a wide range of new comfort amenities in addition to a profusion of modern safety and assistance systems. It is also the most roomy vehicle in its segment.

The lineup includes four highly detailed trim levels: SE Comfort, SE L Colour Edition, and Monte Carlo. Customers can select from four petrol engine options that produce outputs ranging from 80 PS to 110 PS. Each unit is made with an upgraded EVO generation engine from the Volkswagen Group, which offers more economy.

It's one 'L' of a car for new drivers: FABIA named Best First Car at Parkers New Car Awards 2023

Kia’s impressive 2022

Kia positive momentum continues in 2022 with more individual model awards while it launches a new service solution for the fleet dealer network. Kia UK has continued 2022 in record-breaking fashion, winning an unprecedented five awards at the News UK Motor Awards 2022. Among the award wins were the all-new Sportage and Niro, which both collected two awards respectively.

Paul Philpott, President and CEO at Kia UK Limited, commented: “To be named Manufacturer of the Year alone would have been an achievement in which we could all take great pride, but to make history as the first manufacturer to win five accolades at these prestigious awards is an incredible honour. The all-new Sportage and Niro have proven themselves hugely popular among UK buyers since their respective launches earlier this year, and are both among the top 10 best-sellers in the UK so far this year. Award wins like this further cement their positions as frontrunners in the market.”

The Kia dealer network will be able to offer its fleet and business customers the “Kia Business Service Promise” designed to keep fleet and business customers mobile as well as provide the best service and maintenance from across the Kia dealer network. This will help improve residual values by providing service, maintenance, and repair records, which is a mandatory requirement for fleets, and also ensure business vehicles are kept safe and roadworthy. To keep in line with Kia’s best practices, this service solution for the fleet car segment ensures vehicles are serviced using genuine parts and with work completed according to Kia’s official servicing schedules and standards.

The new Kia Business Service Promise is available across Kia’s 192 UK dealer partners, allowing any Kia qualifying fleet car to benefit from manufacturer servicing at a highly competitive national hourly business-labour rate of just £49 plus VAT[1]. Business customers also benefit from a 10 per cent discount on parts prices, with MOTs priced at £35, as well as cars receiving a free vehicle health check on every visit. Cars are

also kept up-to-date, with the latest software updates[2] installed free of charge.

This Kia fleet service solution is designed to be easy with an automated vehicle appraisal process and open to all qualifying Kia fleet customer and doesn’t require a subscription. Also, Kia promises worry free motoring to business users by offering to put a driver in similar vehicle in the eventuality that something goes wrong with their main vehicle, such as warranty issues or offer support with car hiring costs to ensure continuity of job-need vehicles. John Hargreaves, General Manager for Fleet and Remarketing at Kia UK Limited, said: “Fleets traditionally miss out on all the benefits associated with main dealer servicing, because there is a fear that they’re more expensive or that they’re mainly focused on retail customers – meaning fleets miss out on Kia-trained service technicians, genuine parts and maximum residual values. The Business Service Promise is multifaceted in its approach, offering businesses several reasons to maintain their vehicles at a Kia dealership. Firstly, the highly competitive labour rates ensure Kia dealerships don’t cost a premium over alternatives. Secondly, fleets can be reassured by fixed costs for typical repair work, as well as that their driver will be kept on the road with our no quibble policy for any warranty work. As a consequence of choosing our Business Service Promise, fleets will also benefit from a main dealer service and repair history, which helps with improved residual values.”

Kia is the number one brand in fleet in the UK, with a market share of 8.8 per cent and just short of 50,000 units sold (49,866) year-to-date, at end-September. The brand is the no.3 bestselling brand this year in the UK, thanks to strong demand for its award-winning product line-up and bolstered by the award-winning all-new Sportage and all-new Niro. Kia is fast progressing towards achieving one in every two cars sold being an electrified (plug-in hybrid, hybrid or electric) model. Every Kia sold in the UK comes with a sevenyear/100,000-mile warranty as standard, ensuring peace-of-mind.

MG retains its position as the UK’s fastest grow ing car brand

MG Motor UK has maintained its position as the fastest growing car brand in the UK, selling 38,312 cars in the first nine months of the year.

New figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show MG’s market share has increased by 82% year on year, with September 2022 sales marking a 61% increase over the previous September.

Award-winning models such as the MG ZS EV and MG5 EV continue to be hugely popular with customers, as part of MG’s broad range of sporty, exciting and affordable cars which reflect its Get More philosophy.

MG Motor UK’s Commercial Director, Guy Pigounakis, said: “The latest SMMT figures are extremely positive, reflecting the incredible growth we’ve achieved within the last 12 months. I have no doubt our new MG4 and MG5 models will be immensely popular with customers looking to make the switch to electric as we head towards 2023.”

named ‘Best Family

Carbuyer Awards

With the MG ZS EV being awarded the "best family electric car" for 2023 at the yearly Carbuyer Best Car Awards, MG Motor UK is celebrating yet another victory.

The ZS EV was highly recommended by Carbuyer's expert team of highly qualified writers and road testers because its "electric powertrain and a battery pack giving improved performance, much reduced running costs, and an overall nicer driving experience."

The ZS EV Long Range has a starting price of £29,495 and has a WLTP range of up to 273 miles. A 50kW public rapid charger can charge it to 80% in just over an hour, and it comes with a thorough seven-year warranty.

Last year, Carbuyer’s sister publication and leading electric vehicle title DrivingElectric recognised the ZS EV as winner of its ‘Car of the Year 2022’ category. The compact SUV has also enjoyed wins at several major new car award events throughout 2022.

Richard Ingram, Editor at Carbuyer & DrivingElectric, said: "If there's one thing missing in the new car market it's affordable, capable

EVs. But MG has nailed it with the ZS; a practical, efficient and well-equipped electric car with room for the whole family."

The ZS EV sits within MG’s range of electric cars, now joined by the recently launched MG4 EV – an all-new hatchback which promises to set a new benchmark for affordable electric motoring, as well as the new and improved MG5 EV estate expected in November 2022.

For a variety of reasons, the original 1998 CB600F Hornet became an incredibly popular motorcycle in Europe. Its small, unadorned appearance was ideal for cruising around town, and its powerful engine and agile handling allowed it to enthusiastically cut a series of curves. The Hornet saw various versions that steered it toward sports touring and, in the hands of Hornet Cup competitors, an outright race bike, while a 2007 upgrade brought additional top-end power taken from the RR and a far more aggressive style.

Every individual owner had a reason why their Hornet was so good, but two things remained constant throughout its life and development:

It was great fun to ride. And the fun came with an affordable price tag. Motorcycle culture has seen significant changes in the 25 years since the introduction of the first Hornet. Rider expectations have never been higher, and the naked bike market continues to expand in both size and complexity with a wide range of niches. A new Hornet would arrive at the ideal time, with a whole new generation of riders and a bike for the time being. It must compete against strong rivals and fill large tyre tracks. These facts weren't lost on Honda's development team.

It has been designed to draw younger riders eager to make a significant career advancement, with styling overseen by the newest generation of creative minds in Honda's Rome R&D division. A brand-new twin-cylinder engine with strong power and torque and a complete electronics package is featured. A brand-new, lightweight steel frame with top-of-the-line running gear and high-quality Showa suspension enable the rider to fully utilise the bike's potential. A slick, contemporary streetfighter style is defined by a minimalist

appearance and unwavering angles.

Honda have armed the CB750 Hornet with a class-leading power-to-weight ratio. And, to keep things simple, three words can be used to sum it up: Fast, agile, fun.

The Hornet’s brand-new engine packs a great deal of Honda’s engineering prowess into a small space. Headline numbers: 755cc parallel twincylinder, 67.5kW peak power and 75Nm torque. With wet weight of 190kg it has a class-leading power-to-weight ratio of 0.36kW per kg / 2.81kg per kW.

A brand-new Honda engine's introduction always marks a significant occasion. Its significance as a component of a brand-new Hornet is made clear by how it is presented. To give the Hornet its competitive advantage in terms of performance, Honda engineers created a brand-new parallel twin-cylinder engine that packs a powerful and fun punch. It is built to be fully utilised by every rider, offering thrilling peak power output in addition to approachable low to midrange usability, making it ideal for inexperienced riders and greatly enhancing the fun of regular town riding.

With reverence for earlier Hornets, Honda's R&D designers in Rome set to work on a new, modern manifestation of technological beauty with a small, exquisite proportion in the silhouette, lines, and shaping.

The fuel tank, which is the primary distinguishing feature of the Hornet, is designed to resemble a hornet's wing. There are signs of tension and ferocity wherever you look, underlining true sports intent, from the sharply slanted nose-fairing to the razor-sharp, minimum tail.