Norton Way Corporate Magazine - April 2023

HONDA RANKING WELL WITH AUTO EXPRESS.

Honda has proven a hit with Auto Express with multiple cars making various Top 10 lists across Auto Express, from Top 10 best hybrid cars to buy in 2023, Top 10 best hatch backs to buy 2023, to Top 10 best track day cars 2023, and much more where a few will be highlighted below. Here is what Auto Express has to say:

The Honda Civic E:HEV ranked 2nd on the Top 10 best hybrid cars to buy 2023:

In contrast to its colourful predecessor, the most recent Honda Civic is understated and inconspicuous, yet it conceals a fascinating, wellengineered feel below. Honda has only offered one engine option for the Civic's Volkswagen Golf rival's 11th generation, and the 2.0-liter fourcylinder hybrid configuration is a little unusual.

The gasoline engine can power the wheels directly at higher speeds or acts as a generator to power a battery that drives an electric motor. As a result, the combustion engine rarely experiences stress, resulting in a quiet, relaxing power delivery that yet manages to give respectable performance and a claimed 60.1 mpg. The Civic has never been better thanks to its roomy, high-quality interior and responsive characteristics.

The Civic also ranked 3rd for top 10 hatchbacks to buy 2023:

The Honda Civic has been with us for more than fifty years, and the eleventh-generation model is definitely one of the best cars to carry this established family hatchback name.

Take one look at the ‘FL5’ Civic and you will notice that it’s a bit more understated than its predecessor. It’s more stylish, though, and a generous amount of kit comes as standard.

Underneath the sleek styling, the latest Civic is powered by a 2.0-litre e:HEV full-hybrid setup. This system differs from most rivals as the petrol engine acts primarily as a generator to charge the battery. This means that it will run in EV mode as much as possible, resulting in lower emissions and fuel consumption.

The Honda Jazz ranked 5th Top 10 cheapest hybrid to buy 2023:

The latest Honda Jazz is only available to UK buyers in hybrid form. The Jazz also features a self-charging hybrid system made up of a 1.5-litre petrol engine and two electric motors.

Where the Jazz could have the edge over its biggest rival, though, is when it comes to practicality. As with its predecessors, the latest model has been cleverly designed and is fitted with Honda’s ‘Magic Seat’ setup, with seat bases that can flip up to create a large space behind the front occupants. Four adult passengers can easily sit in comfort while there should still be a reasonable amount of room in the back for their luggage, thanks to a decent 304-litre boot.

Those looking for a bit more fun will be pleased to know Auto expressed ranked the Honda Civic Type R 6th in the Top 10 best track day cars 2023. This is especially impressive with the list including sport and super cars.

Auto Express describes the Honda Civic Type R as making a mockery of genuine sports cars costing twice as much.

The Type R hints at its magic before you’ve even set off, the thin-rimmed Alcantara steering wheel and teardrop gear knob falling perfectly to hand. Its track day credentials quickly show themselves on the move, too, with a definite edge to the ride and a tightly-wound feel to the engine.

The most recent generation of four-wheel drive hot hatchbacks may accelerate more quickly, but none of them possess the same driving passion as the 324 horsepower Type R. It scrambles for traction and hunts for grip while cornering with remarkable speed, maintaining within its own boundaries and communicating clearly with the driver. It has a Super Touring car-like feel rather than a hot hatch, which is advantageous on a track.

MAZDA MX-30 E-SKYACTIV R-EV RATED FIVE STARS BY EURO NCAP

The Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV series plug-in hybrid has received a maximum five-star rating by Euro NCAP as the excellent results of the battery-electric MX-30 e-Skyactiv EV tested in 2020 now officially apply to its new plug-in hybrid derivative, Both MX-30 derivatives score impressively in all four Euro NCAP test categories: Adult Occupant – 91%, Child Occupant – 87%, Vulnerable Road User (pedestrian safety) – 68% and Safety Assist – 73%.

Also, they received full scores for frontal and lateral impact crash test performance based on 6- and 10-year-old children, as well as maximum points in lateral impact tests. With the stricter 2020 Euro NCAP crashworthiness standards, which place a larger focus on occupant protection, post-crash protection, and cuttingedge driver assistance technologies, the MX-30 was the first Mazda to receive an overall five-star rating. Three important elements contributed to this remarkable performance: The most recent Skyactiv Vehicle Architecture has a bodyshell that is highly robust, impact-absorbing, yet lightweight. Drivers can recognise potential risks and lessen the possibility of harm or injury with the aid of a variety of cutting-edge iActivsense safety technologies. Good pedestrian safety standards lessen the effects of collisions involving vulnerable road users.

The Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV, which was unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show in January, will reach the UK this summer. With its 17.8KWh battery, the R-EV has a 53-mile pure electric range. Using Mazda's unique rotary engine technology, the all-new 830cc single-rotor petrol engine acts as a generator to enable longer distance drives without range or charging anxiety. The R-EV is a series plug-in hybrid that offers the same customer values as the pure electric Mazda MX-30.

The rotary unit only serves as a generator, ensuring that the MX-30 R-EV always drives via the electric motor to give a seamless EV driving experience. There is no mechanical connection between the engine and the wheels. Mazda chose the rotary motor for this application due to its exceptional capacity to deliver the required output from a tiny, light, and readily packaged unit. Mazda has more than 50 years of experience in the development of rotary engines. In the engine bay, the generator and high-output motor are neatly positioned next to the rotary engine. The unique series plug-in hybrid has a flexible total range of over 373 miles and a WLTP CO2 output of just 21g/km thanks to the 17.8kw battery and 50-liter gasoline tank.

Available to order now, for UK arrival in the summer, the Mazda e-Skyactiv R-EV is offered in the same highly specified grades as the all-electric e-Skyactiv MX-30: Prime-Lime, Exclusive-Line and Makoto – while bespoke to the R-EV, the range is topped by the Edition R. Revealed on the Brussels Motor Show stand, this limited edition launch model has stand out features inside and out, and is offered exclusively in the unique colour combination of Jet Black with Maroon Rouge side pillars and a black roof.

A rotor badge on the front wings and an e-Skyactiv R-EV badge on the tailboard are present on every Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV model. The R-EV has distinctive wheels that set them apart: the Exclusive-Line, Makoto, and Edition R have a black diamond cut finish while the Prime-Line has a dark grey finish. The Prime-Line and Exclusive-Line R-EV models in the MX-30 range, which has a starting price of £31,250, are equally priced to the BEV variant, allowing buyers more options at the same price. At the top of the MX-30 range, the R-EV only Edition R, priced at £37,950 and available in only 400 units in the UK, commands a slight £450 price premium over the pure electric version.

NISSAN UNVEILS NEW APPROACH TO ELECTRIFIED POWERTRAIN DEVELOPMENT

Nissan unveiled its new approach to electrified powertrain development, which it calls “X-in-1”. Under the approach, core EV and e-POWER powertrain components will be shared and modularized, resulting in a 30% reduction, compared to 2019, in development and manufacturing costs by 2026.

Through the X-in-1 approach, Nissan aims to further increase the competitiveness of its EV and e-POWER vehicles. Nissan has developed a 3-in-1 powertrain prototype, which modularizes the motor, inverter and reducer, which is planned for use in EVs. A 5-in-1 prototype, which additionally modularizes the generator and increaser, is planned for use in e-POWER vehicles. The X-in-1 approach, which covers 3-in-1, 5-in1, and other possible variants, has been developed to enable EV and e-POWER core components to be produced on the same line.

With the Nissan LEAF, Nissan was the first carmaker to mass-market an EV in 2010. Nissan has been attentively listening to its EV consumers throughout the world to improve its electrification technologies. Nissan introduced its distinctive e-POWER electrified powertrain in 2016 using its EV technology. Because it is entirely motor-driven, it offers the same driving enjoyment as an EV.

The X-in-1 approach to electrified powertrain development provides the following benefits:

• Sharing and modularizing core components improves production efficiencies and reduces powertrain costs by approximately 30% compared to 2019. Nissan aims to achieve e-POWER price parity with ICE vehicles by around 2026.

• Size and weight reduction of the unit improves vehicle driving performance and minimizes noise and vibration.

• Adopt newly developed motor that reduces the use of heavy rare earth elements to 1% or less by weight.

• The sharing of core components and control technology provides the enjoyable driving experience unique to Nissan EVs.

Future-proof your business with the all-new electric Nissan Townstar Van

Commercial vehicle customers looking to futureproof their business operations and transition to zero emission motoring now have an exciting new option, following the launch of the electric Nissan Townstar van.

The all-new Townstar, the newest member of Nissan's electrified lineup, has a starting price of £28,400 (CV OTR after PiVG*) and a class-leading range of 183 miles WLTP Combined (or up to 269 miles on the City Cycle). It offers customers an effective mobility solution to help them adjust to changing emissions regulations, increased urbanisation, and the rise of e-commerce. seller, which was designed with business owners’ needs in mind.

It features an efficient, aerodynamic design and a powertrain optimised with intelligent energy management and battery thermal cooling. Delivering 122 PS and 245Nm of torque, the Townstar EV’s 45kWh battery offers both AC charging (11 kW or 22 kW) or DC CCS quickcharging, the latter of which enables users to charge the battery from 15% to 80% in as little

as 37 minutes. Battery thermal cooling combined with the 22kW AC and 80kW DC CCS charging is standard from Acenta grade onward.

Depending on the specifications, other highlights include a payload of between 600 and 800kg and towing capacity of up to 1,500kg. The Townstar EV offers between 3.3 to 4.3 cubic metres of cargo carrying capacity - enough to carry two Euro pallets starting from the short wheelbase version.

The 100% electric Townstar will also be the first LCV to offer Nissan's ProPILOT Assist cuttingedge driver assistance system. This technology gives drivers more help, combined with Nissan's distinctive Intelligent Around View Monitor (AVM). Furthermore, heated steering wheels and automated climate control are available for increased passenger comfort. While a heat pump transfers heat from the battery into the cabin to increase economy and comfort in colder climates.

NEW PEUGEOT 508 RANGE –THE NEW FACE OF ATTRACTION

Peugeot introduces a new look for its topof-the-line executive cars with the new 508, which is available in Fastback, SW, and high-performance PEUGEOT SPORT ENGINEERED versions. The brand's new logo is central to the redesigned front end, which adds more vitality to the overall design.

These models share a new front end with the new 3008 and 5008, which fully integrates the distinctive grille lower into the bumper. They also have the signature lighting setup with three claws up front. All of these claws' variations share a distinctive design that incorporates them into the incredibly slender Matrix LED headlights.

At the rear, the new LED lights incorporate the signature 3-claw design with scrolling indicators. Inside the new 508 and 508 SW, a new emphasis is placed on the quality and modernity of the materials. This includes a new premium upholstery and a new gearbox control unit for improved ergonomics.

Emotion

The new PEUGEOT i-Connect® Advanced infotainment system is available inside every new 508 vehicle. A 10-inch central highdefinition screen, connected navigation, natural language voice recognition, wireless smartphone networking, and over-the-air (OTA) updates are all included in this system.

The new 508 range represents the best of PEUGEOT in terms of driving pleasure and comfort, complemented by an extensive suite of driving assistance systems. These include:

• Night Vision, using infrared camera technology to alert the driver of any hazards ahead before they are visible under high beam lighting.

• Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assistance, consisting of Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go and Lane Keeping Assist.

• Parking assistance with HD camera technology.

• Adaptive suspension with 3 settings (Normal, Comfort and Sport).

Excellence

The range of powertrains available for PEUGEOT 508 and 508 SW includes two PLUG-IN HYBRID versions, a new 180hp and a 225hp version. Also available are a 130hp PureTech petrol version and a 130hp BlueHDi diesel version. All engines are combined with the EAT8 8-speed automatic transmission. The thrilling 508 PEUGEOT SPORT ENGINEERED features a 360hp PLUG-IN HYBRID drivetrain and all-wheel drive.

ALLURE: A Dynamic & Modern Silhouette

The new 508's design has been updated to reflect the most recent PEUGEOT design philosophy. The front bumper's full integration of the grille motif results in a more contemporary appearance, and the seamless patterns give the vehicle a confident new look. The new PEUGEOT shield, located in the centre of the grille, is perched proudly on this new face.

Similar to this, the new 508's front, side, and rear badges are more contemporary with fresh typography and a fresh Basalt Grey colour. A dark Basalt Grey "PEUGEOT" insignia that spans the breadth of the centre black strip at the back has taken the place of the emblem. This helps to modernise and visually enlarge the back end.

EMOTION Behind The Wheel: The PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®

With each new generation for the past ten years, the distinctive PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® has undergone modernization. With a new infotainment system, the PEUGEOT i-Connect® Advanced, the new 508 range makes a mark in terms of ergonomics, quality, usability, and technology.

The PEUGEOT i-Cockpitsmall ®'s steering wheel is its distinguishing feature and enhances driving enjoyment by providing unusual agility and precision of movement. The controls for the multimedia system (audio sources, telephone), volume, and natural voice control are located on the steering wheel, which also features the new PEUGEOT shield in the centre.

koda UK research has revealed more than a quarter (27%) of British motorists have had their car damaged by potholes, on the day the Asphalt Industry Alliance’s Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance report reveals the extent of pothole problems in England and Wales.

According to Skoda study, repairing a pothole-related vehicle often costs more than £200. Skoda's Local Hazard Information Service is available to help drivers avoid damaged roads and possible damage to their vehicles. The sophisticated system, which is an element of Skoda Connect internet services, alerts drivers to dangerous driving conditions and may help them avoid expensive repairs.

Of the UK drivers who have experienced damage from a pothole, the most common issues were punctures (47%), followed by tracking misalignment (26%) and a cracked spring (22%). The regions encountering the most damage were the North East and South West of England, while the region in which the fewest vehicle repairs needed to be carried out was the East Midlands. The top issues drivers face by potholes are:

1. Tyre puncture

2. Tracking misalignment

3. Cracked spring / broken shock absorber

4. Buckled / bent wheel

5. Damaged alloy wheel = Damaged exhaust / catalytic converter

6. Tyre sidewall bulge

7. Broken power steering

8. Lost hubcap

Škoda technology can help drivers avoid costly repairs by providing alerts when they are approaching or within an area with bad road surfaces via the Local Hazard Information Service. A feature of Škoda Connect, it can provide drivers with hazard warnings along their journey and is available in all current Škoda models.

Ciao, Ħello, Hej! New Škoda Adventure Index names Italy, Malta and Denmark as Europe's best

road trip destinations

Airport-weary British drivers are gearing up for a mile-munching summer of European road trips. To help drivers select their perfect destination Škoda divided its finding into three categories: Camping and Environment, Adventure and Road Safety.

Environment

Heading the Environment category is Italy, which scored highly for world heritage sites and low CO2 emissions. Italy tops the charts when it comes to historical landmarks with no fewer than 58 UNESCO sites located around the country. Germany and France complete the top three, with the former offering a number of must-visit sites including the gothic cathedral in Cologne. For drivers wanting to travel to a country with the least environmental impact, Denmark, which sits in fifth place in the Index, is considered to be one of the most environmentally-friendly countries in Europe. In 2020, the country committed to a 2030 target of a 70% reduction in CO2 levels compared to 1990 levels.

Adventure

Topping the Adventure category is Malta, a destination that offers everything from stunning scenery to ancient heritage sites and a plethora of water sports. Cyprus and Portugal complete the top three in the Adventure index.

Taking data and review scores from TripAdvisor, Škoda found that Malta offers visitors a huge variety of adventure-based activities. And, thanks to its relatively small size, visitors don’t need to travel far to discover a new activity. Malta also scored highest for extreme sports, with 28 activities per 620 miles - the highest ratio in the Index.

Škoda system warns of potential potholes as research finds more than a quarter of UK drivers have damaged their car on an undetected pothole

Road Safety and Camping

Škoda’s researchers focused on EU countries that have the safest roads and most campsites available to travellers. The data takes into consideration the number of campsites per 62,000 miles, driving incidents per 100k people, and driving fatalities per million for each country. Denmark tops the charts with the safest driving routes and an ample choice of campsites. The Netherlands and Ireland round out the top three with the former offering some of the best camping opportunities in Europe. The socalled camping capital of Europe, The Netherlands has an average of 75 sites per 62,000 square miles, including the top-rated Rijinsburg site at Vakantiepark Konigshof.

To help drivers make the most of their European road trips, Škoda offers a range of accessories including a Travel Pack that consists of roof bars and a 380-litre roof box. Available for every model in the Škoda range, prices start from £625 including VAT.

THE KIA EV9 REVEALED: GROUNDBREAKING EV

FUSING PROGRESSIVE, BOLD DESIGN WITH AUTHENTIC SUV CHARACTER

The bold and confident visual presence of the EV9 is inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which harnesses the creative tension generated by the divergent values of nature and modernity to deliver a harmonious whole. Kia’s designers have fused a unique combination of sleek, sculptural shapes and assured, assertive geometry to deliver a strikingly contemporary yet gracefully serene SUV.

Exterior design: paving new paths for future electric SUV design

The designers at Kia are inspired by the company's "Opposites Unified" design ethos as they work to produce cars with unmatched aesthetic appeal. The 'Bold for Nature' ideology pillar, which encourages the fusion of elements from the natural and material worlds, in particular, has been essential in shaping the external design of the EV9. The end result is an automobile that deftly mixes the tranquil calmness of a sophisticated EV with the undeniable aura of tough competence for all situations, opening up new design possibilities for future electric SUVs.

The EV9's front is distinguished by straightforward, unambiguous body surfaces and lines that exude assurance, clarity, and calmness in equal measure. The EV9's distinctive "Digital Tiger Face" exudes a visionary and future look and feel and is accentuated by the "Digital Pattern Lighting Grille" and eye-catching vertical headlights. The bodywork of the Digital Tiger Face has two groups of tiny cube lamps next to each headlamp. The EV9's ground-breaking "Star

Map LED daytime running lights (DRL)" produce a sophisticated animated lighting pattern that will serve as a visual cue for Kia's Digital Tiger Face on the company's upcoming EV cars.

Interior: new forms of space, comfort, and experience for all occupants

The Kia ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy ‘Technology for Life’ pillar ensures that only technology and innovation that promote positive, intuitive interactions between humans and machines are created – realising new possibilities for mobility. These values have played a pivotal role in the creation of the interior of the EV9. They have enabled Kia’s designers to prioritise space, comfort and technology for all passengers, reimagining what a family SUV can offer.

The EV9's long wheelbase, low beltline, and completely flat electric vehicle architecture, which were all made possible by Kia's Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), have allowed for the creation of generous space for all occupants to connect and relax in lounge-style comfort in all three rows of seats. In order to ensure that the EV9 provides equal space, comfort, and experience for all occupants without putting all of its focus on the driver, Kia solicited feedback from families for its six- and sevenseat models.

Occupants sitting in the first and second-row seats can simultaneously recline their seats to relax and rest when the EV9 is charging. The seats in the second row can be effortlessly swivelled 180 degrees so that occupants can interact with those sitting in the third row. The third-row seats also offer cup holders and charging points for mobile devices.

MG4 EV named ‘EV Breakthrough of the Year’ with three more award wins

MG Motor UK has continued a hugely successful awards run so far in 2023, recognised by two major independent awards within the fleet sector.

At the prestigious Fleet News Awards at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, BBC News anchor and 2023 awards host Huw Edwards revealed the MG4 EV as ‘EV Breakthrough of the Year’.

Fleet News lauded MG’s new all-electric hatchback as a true driver’s car, praising its winning combination of excellent range and affordable price point.

The panel of judges commented, “MG is changing the game in the electric vehicle sector by bringing down the entry level price point with usable real-world range. Yet the MG4 is anything but entry level: drivers love it and evangelise about their experiences, making the car a viable alternative to true premium rivals.”

The MG4 EV had a successful evening after receiving high praise from Fleet News in the category of "Best Lower Medium Car." The MG4 EV, which has a starting price of just £26,995, has already proven popular with customers as a vehicle that provides quality electric motoring at an accessible price.

The MG4 EV is crowned ‘UK Car of the Year 2023’

The MG4 EV has been named as UK Car of the Year 2023, with a panel of experts selecting the all-electric hatchback as the best new car on sale in the UK today.

An expert panel of 27 automotive journalists praised the MG4 EV’s design, quality and outstanding value for money - recognising that the new fully electric hatchback puts zero emissions

motoring within reach for more people than ever.

The MG4 EV has been crowned as the overall winner from a final list of seven popular new cars, ranking ahead of models from Dacia, Land Rover, Lotus, Kia and Toyota.

The MG4 EV has won fifteen major awards in the last six months, including four overall Car of the Year titles and most recently, the title of "Best Family Car," which it won at the UKCOTY semi-final last month. The model was honoured by Euro NCAP as well, earning the highest possible five-star safety rating after a stringent testing procedure.

Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director of MG Motor UK, was presented with the award at MG Piccadilly, the company’s flagship showroom in the heart of London.

“We couldn’t be prouder of what the MG4 has achieved in such a short time,” said Guy. “Winning UK Car of the Year demonstrates the immense capabilities of our new all-electric hatchback and there’s much more to come in 2023. I would like to personally thank each expert who took part in the judging process.”

UKCOTY head judge and founder John Challen said, “The MG4 proves that electric cars can be affordable, practical and appeal to all areas of the automotive market. Fully charged, it offers more than enough miles for the vast majority of journeys, while the design and driving dynamics tick two other important boxes for consumers. A deserved winner for the electric future.”

MG Motor UK remains the fastest growing car brand in the UK, with the MG4 EV spearheading its hugely successful start to 2023.