Motoring July 2014 by The Malta Independent

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The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 July 2014

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Refinement and more technology on board the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2014 ore refined looks and an enhanced technological onboard experience make the much awaited new version of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2014 even more worth experiencing. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta always delivered on its promise to offer any driver a rewarding and satisfying experience. The model managed to garner plenty of success in fact since the official debut in 2010 of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, more than 212,000 units have been ordered worldwide. Now Malta welcomes the Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2014 with its improved exterior looks, renewed styling and more technological

content on board.

on the backrest.

Exterior

Comfort

When it comes to looks, the Giulietta 2014 features three new liveries namely Moonlight Pearl, Anodizzato Blue and Bronze that enhance the dynamic lines of a model that is a blend of sportiness and elegance. The new look of the front grille and the chrome-plated frame of the fog lights renew its front. This is the starting point for the design of the entire car, which combines an energetic personality with a distinctly elegant form. One in fact also finds three new alloy wheels (16'', 17'' and 18'') that clearly highlight the profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014.

The longitudinal and vertical filtering capacity of the suspension ensures high driving comfort while important technical refinements such as specific interventions on bumpers, wheel arch, pedal unit and luggage compartment - make the Giulietta MY 2014 even quieter and more enjoyable to drive. The quality of the materials used for the dashboard and the ergonomics of the interior space in general contribute to a great on-board experience. The luggage compartment, with a width of 1023 mm and a maximum capacity of 350 litres is in line with that of its main rivals. The Giulietta's exceptional efficiency is confirmed by the excellent performance to consumption ratio, a value that is further increased by the latestgeneration Alfa TCT twin dry clutch automatic transmission. The transmission works in either allautomatic or sequential mode and ensures greater efficiency and driving comfort and a sportier feeling than the automatic transmissions with torque converter.

Interiors The interiors feature detail and high quality materials chosen to represent the ultimate expression of Italian style. New door panels and handles and a brand new insert on the central console and dashboard stand out. The seats

and steering wheel are new, too, and further highlight the perceived quality and on-board comfort. In particular, soon to make their début on the Quadrifoglio Verde version are the new sports seats upholstered in black leather/Alcantara with contrasting stitching with electro-welded logo

Multimedia Designed to enrich the driving experience and perfectly integrated in the design of the car, the innovative Uconnect multimedia device is available with a 5" or 6.5" touch-screen with satellite navigation system and voice commands for easy control of several multimedia sources and outputs. The system also includes an advanced Bluetooth interface to access extra functions, such as phone call management or reading received SMS text messages via text-to-speech technology, innovative Audio Streaming system that reproduces music files and web radio stations directly from a smartphone in streaming via Bluetooth on the UConnect device.

Safety The Giulietta 2014 remains one of the safest cars in its category. In addition to the undisputed dynamic features of the model, all versions fit plenty of standard equipment, such as six airbags, ESP, three-point seat belts with double pretensioner, anti-whiplash system and third load line for excellent passenger compartment protection. These are followed - again as standard - by certain systems which are unique in this category, such as Alfa DNA with electronic Q2 differential that prevents understeer at the front, DST, which prompts drivers to correct their driving in the event of an emergency through impulses at the wheel and the Pre-fill system that guarantees maximum promptness during emergency braking. All these features translate into an extremely high active and passive safety level. The Giulietta earned five stars in crash tests according to the stricter parameters introduced by Euro NCAP from its launch, scoring 97% for adult passenger protection, one of the highest scores in the category.

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 July 2014

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300,000th DS 3 produced in France he DS 3 was the first DS model to be launched. It shook up conventional automotive cues with the general public and at the same time revolutionised the manufacturing process. The DS 3 is available with a broad range of customisable features, in a two-tone version and in a personalised version with a choice of colours and interior design components. This production challenge was successfully met from the start by including personalisation in the heart of the manufacturing process. That success is underscored today by the production at the Poissy site of the 300,000th DS 3 hatchback carrying the “Origine France Garantie” label. The Poissy site has now produced some 300,000 DS 3 hatchbacks. That number, 300,000, is a measure of the success of this model. Applauded for its attractive styling – rendered exclusive through an extensive set of personalisation possibilities – and for its refinement, technologies and dynamic yet comfortable road behaviour, the DS 3 makes driving fun for its owners on a day-to-day basis. The Poissy site in France today produced its 300,00th DS 3. The model in question is an all-new limited edition “So Irresistible” cloaked in Perla Nera black body paint and featuring the new Xenon Full LED light signature unveiled a few weeks ago. This 300,000th DS

3 reflects the success of the funloving car that appeals with its unique styling and multiple customisation possibilities, and with its impressive technological content and driving performance. The DS 3 is moving onwards and upwards with new product features. The 300,000th model stands out with the new light signature revealed last month. In a

world first, the new signature consists of new lamps combining LED and Xenon technologies with new sequential indicators. The innovation safeguards the styling of the DS 3 while bringing it a unique and high-tech gaze. The 300,000th DS 3 is a limited edition “So Irresistible” model. Together with the new light signature, the DS 3 “So Irresistible”,

based on the third trim level, “So Chic”, boasts a new customisable interior design scheme called “Irresistible Paris” featuring screenprinted monuments of the city on the rear side windows and laserengraved on the dashboard insert, it also features 17-inch Aphrodite diamond-cut alloy wheels. The 300,000th DS 3 is also equipped with a reversing camera

and the new Active City Brake automatic braking system. It is powered by a BlueHDi 120 diesel engine mated to a 6-speed gearbox and already compliant with the Euro6 standard, for combined-cycle fuel consumption of 3.6 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 94 g/km. This 300,000th DS 3 will be coming soon to a street near you!

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 July 2014

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Are you switched on to the electric revolution? R Z.E. = Zero Emissions

enault unveiled four electric concept cars at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show with a promise to make them widely available to motorists… Since then, Renault has publicised each milestone in this ambitious and unique project, securing the backing of governments, signing partnership agreements and testing battery safety. Renault has focused on training its network, sales staff, technicians and repairers with the aim of offering customers seamless service. Electric vehicles were first tested in The Sims virtual community before being put through real-world trials involving more than 400 EVs and a panel of users. To date, Renault has delivered more than 37,000 electric cars worlwide. Renault is demonstrating its drive for innovation, clearly

investing in a future with mankind at its core. Electric cars are no longer a dream out of reach for many, but a reality accessible to all.

tude of jobs and has all the comfort of a car combined with the versatility of a van. Spacious 650kg loading area ensures Kangoo is prepared for most things! Fluence ZE Elegant, innovative, intelligent. The best selling Fluence has been adapted as a ZE vehicle. All the safety, comfort, space and security of the Fluence plus the sound of silence and no CO2 emissions. Suffice to say that Renault registered a total of 60 Patents for the Zoe. For 114 years, Renault has been committed to offer sustainable mobility for all. With the Z.E. vehicles Renault is at the forefront of this exciting new era, determined to drive this historic change. The future is here. The entire ZE range is due to be launched in Malta in summer 2014. Soon you will be able to join us make history.

Why electric vehicles?

The automobile industry contributes to the problem of climate change. It generates 12 per cent of the CO2 emissions that result from human activity and accounts for 25 per cent of the world’s oil consumption. At Renault, therefore, we have decided to be part of the solution. The stakes relating to the introduction of widely affordable electric vehicles call for far-reaching changes to our industry so that the automobile is once more perceived as a means of progress, both for mankind and for the planet. The aim is to integrate the automobile more fully in its environment and make our towns and villages greener, quieter and more pleasant to live in.

Renault Fluence Z.E.

Renault ZOE Z.E.

Renault Twizy Z.E.

After 18 years of research, lithium-ion battery technology has come of age and provides a satisfactory response in terms of both range – which has doubled compared with the technology developed in the 1980s – and safety. Although Renault engines stand out as examples as far as their CO2 emissions are concerned, using oil as a source of energy will always result in the emission of CO2. Electric vehicles are consequently the only real cleanbreak solution, since they do not emit any CO2 during their use on the road. However, the environmental impact of electricity generation must also be addressed. That said, as things stand, electric vehicles are much cleaner than their internal combustion-engined counterparts in terms of their ‘well-to-wheel’ energy balance, even when the generation of the electricity they use is taken into account. And if electricity is one day produced entirely by the sun, wind or water, or by nuclear power, they will become emission-free. With an all-electric car and clean energy, the lifecycle of our vehicles – from manufacturing through to recycling – will be that much more attractive. Electric vehicles are the flagships of Renault’s eco² drive, a position

which is centred squarely on the availability of a range of more ecologically-aware and readily affordable products and services.In its ‘Renault 2016 – Drive the Change’ plan, the Renault group committed to reducing its global carbon footprint by 20 percent. It is achieving this by introducing new technologies for internal combustion engines and transmissions, and making an unprecedented commitment to all-electric vehicles. Renault estimates that electric vehicles will account for 10 percent of the world market by 2020 and aims to be a key player in this new form of mobility with more than 1 million Renault electric vehicles on the roads by 2016. The Zero Emission program has had an investment of €46 Billion, and 1000 Renault workforce

The Renault Z.E. range Renault is the first volume automobile manufacturer to offer a comprehensive range of all-electric vehicles in 2012: Fluence ZE, Kangoo ZE, Twizy and ZOE – the last two models designed as EVs from the ground up. Twizy, an unprecedented urban mobility solution, its nimble handling prompts parallels with the world of scooters and motorbikes, yet the standard of safety and comfort it delivers is close to that of a four-wheeled vehicle. Twizy stands out as a symbol of the ‘Renault 2016 – Drive the Change’ plan. ZOE, the compact saloon that ensures everyday wellbeing for all is an all-electric compact saloon. A true mass-market vehicle, it is poised to become the flagship of Renault’s “innovation for all” drive and concern for the environment, as well as being an ambassador for the brand’s new design strategy. Kangoo ZE, suitable for a multi-

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 July 2014

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The New Toyota Aygo – Go Fun Yourself he new Aygo, is an outstanding example of Toyota’s commitment to build ever-better cars that catch the eye and are genuinely fun to drive. A distinctive and characterful design – dubbed J-Playful in

reference to Japan’s hip youth culture – and a wealth of customisation options show how Toyota has made fun a key element in crafting its new city car. The new Toyota Aygo is a small car that offers customers a huge

choice when it comes to making their car distinctively their own. Never before has a Toyota offered so many opportunities for personalisation, with a wealth of features inside and out that can be specified in different colours and finishes.

From the new X-shape front end element that defines Aygo’s hip new look, to the alloy wheels, instrument panel and seats, owners can give their car its very own style. Customisation is just one aspect of the fresh, vibrant approach

Toyota has taken with its new city car, with higher equipment specifications that include plenty of “big car” features, such as the new x-touch multimedia system with MirrorLink function for smart connection of mobile phones. New Aygo is also the first in its class to offer a rear-view camera and it can be specified with Smart Entry and push button start. This new model is designed above all to be fun – to own and to drive – while maintaining its established high value price tag and running costs. New Aygo hits the roads in Malta from the 21st of July with a great starting price of Euro 9.695. Building on Aygo’s established character and market success, the second generation model will open up a wealth of new possibilities for customers to personalise their car, thanks to an extensive range of affordable and stylish customisation options both the exterior and the cabin. More than 10 vehicle elements can easily be replaced with alternative colours and executions, even after several years of ownership. New Aygo will be launched in three and five-door bodystyles and in x-play, x-pression, x-cite and x-clusiv grades, offering customers exceptional choice. The colours ramp up new Aygo’s fun factor, with five options: White Flash, Silver Splash, Electro Grey, Deep Blue Buzz and Red Pop. In addition, the x-cite will be offered only in Orange Twist and the x-clusiv in Bold Black. New Aygo is powered by an improved version of Toyota’s award-winning three-cylinder 1.0litre VVT-i petrol engine, offered with a choice of manual or new x-shift automated manual transmissions. Top line combined cycle performance figures are 74.3mpg and 88g/km CO2 emissions. For more information on the new Toyota Aygo and the Toyota line-up visit the Toyota showroom situated in Mdina Road Zebbug log on the Toyota Malta Facebook page or call on 2269 4000.

The Malta Independent on Sunday • 27 July 2014

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The New Peugeot 108 now in Malta! New Citroën Grand C4 Picasso named ‘Best MPV’ in Auto Express awards 2014 he New Citroën Grand C4 Picasso has been named ‘Best MPV’ in the prestigious Auto Express Awards, with the judging panel specifically recommending the BlueHDi 150 Exclusive version to its readers. Steve Fowler, Editor-in-chief at Auto Express, commented; “The Grand C4 Picasso is a brilliantly conceived MPV – Citroën really has put the family first in producing a car that’s easy, enjoyable and cost effective to own. It not only does the practical things superbly, but impresses with its overall comfort and refinement, plus its quality and advanced technology.” Available from just £19,205 OTR, the New Grand C4 Picasso strikes a new balance between benchmark space, engaging styling and record efficiency.

On top of this prestigious award for Grand C4 Picasso, the 5-seat C4 Picasso was commended in the same MPV category and DS 3 was commended in ‘Best Premium Small Car’ category. Launching in the UK in October, the New Citroën C4 Cactus was also commended in the ‘Best Crossover’ category. James Parfett, Citroën UK’s Communications Director, said; “Another important award from a much-respected title once again affirms the Grand C4 Picasso as a leading choice in the family car market. Citroën’s continued focus is providing drivers with more style, more comfort, useful innovative technology and a reduced cost of ownership – the ongoing success of the Grand C4 Picasso is proving these efforts have been worthwhile.”

he multifaceted city car, an ultra modern city car with a distinct personality, the new Peugeot 108 leaves no one indifferent. Equipped with convenient features like a giant tactile screen that mirrors your smartphone and a back-up camera that helps you park in a flash, the most recent addition to the Peugeot fleet is no less impressive than any of its fabulous predecessors! Its elegant design, sleek look and 7 exclusive customizing options create quite a sensation. Pick the style that fits you to a tee and assert your unique personality! At the wheel of this multifaceted, modern and dynamic city car, the urban landscape will become your favorite playground. Now on display at Michael Attard Ltd, National Road, Blata l-Bajda. Call 79406607 to test drive the New Peugeot 108 today.