Alfa Romeo 147 Q2 Sport
Alfa Romeo is releasing a limited number of stunning special edition Alfa 147 Sport and Sport Q2 models in the UK.
The new Alfa 147 Sport features a number of unique enhancements to the Alfa’s exterior styling. New 17-inch 5 spoke wheels add poise, while satin effect wing mirrors, a roof spoiler and chrome exhaust hint at the sporting prowess. The sport theme continues inside, with some subtle touches starting with exclusive Q2-type cloth used for the seats, aluminium pedals, sports dials, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and darkened roof lining.
Search New and Used Alfa Romeo 147 Q2 Sport Cars
Alfa Romeo thinks there’s no harm in emphasising the sporting credentials of its 147 prestige hatch. Will buyers agree? (Motoring.co.uk)
Adding the Q2 differential has revitalised the 147. It rivals the best hot hatches for driving enjoyment and provides extra stability, particularly in the wet. The diesel engine is smooth, willing and frugal, while the body has lovely Latin looks. On the downside, the interior is cramped, while the quality and reliability remain questionable. Until these issues are addressed, the Alfa will remain charismatic and fun – but ultimately flawed. (Auto Express)
Audi’s crazy convertible 4×4 concept
Audi has unveiled a 150mph off-roading convertible which it claims is the world’s cleanest diesel car.
The Audi Cross Cabriolet Quattro concept, which is on display at the LA Auto Show, is powered by a turbocharged 3-litre V6 diesel producing 235bhp and 368lb/ft of pulling power.
This accelerates the Audi Cross Cabriolet Quattro from 0-62mph (100kph) in 7.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 149mph, while averaging 38.6mpg.
Audi has used a non toxic solution called AdBlue in the engine, which destroys pollutants and reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 90 per cent.
Rolling on 21-inch alloys, the Audi– which is based on the same platform as the A4 and A5 – features Quattro four-wheel drive which channels 60 per cent of the pulling power to the rear wheels through an EIGHT-speed automatic gearbox.
And in areas with poor traction the power distribution can be diverted so the front wheels can take up to 65 per cent with the rear wheels capable of taking 85 per cent of the pull.
Inside, the Audi Cross Cabriolet Quattro is fitted with Google Earth-powered sat-nav, where the driver can click on an image in the Google interface and be directed to that destination.
Initially a concept, it’s unlikely the Audi will have 21-inch wheels and it may eventually lose the cabriolet feature and be the future Q5, a more compact version of the Q7.
Ten things to see at the British Motor Show
THE British Motor Show is only days away – the biggest automotive event of the year kicks off at London’s ExCeL on 20th July.The show will be packed with events and mind-blowing motors. To make sure you get the most out of the experience, Alex Eckford has rounded up ten things you can’t afford to miss…
1. BMW’s M6 Convertible
The M6 Convertible will be making its world premiere at the motor show. You’ll be able to check out the M6 (and the full M-series range – roadsters and coupés) at the BMW Group Plaza – an 11,000 square metre stand outside the main hall.
2. The Aston Martin Rapide
UK punters get their first chance to see the sexiest car on the planet – the five metre long Rapide. As if that wasn’t enough, Aston will also be bringing along a Vanquish S, a DB9 Coupé, and the V8 Vantage.
3. Jaguar XKR
Another global debut. With its supercharged V8 engine and jaw-dropping looks, the XKR will be one of the top draws at the show. Arrive early if you want to get anywhere near this beast. No pushing.
4. The Dream Drive Paddock
Want to see Ferraris? A Mercedes McLaren SLR? A Porsche Carrera GT? Need we go on? DO NOT, under any circumstances, leave the show without visiting this supercar-filled area.
5. Adventure Land – 4×4
A specially built off-road course based on a theme of ‘urban regeneration’. Try out the course for yourself – with cars from Daihatsu, Kia, Land Rover, Nissan, Toyota and Volvo.
6. Dock Rock Concerts
It’s not just cars at the Motor Show – there’s also the ‘Dock Rock’ evening performances by The Sugababes, Roxy Music and Van Morrison to name but three – all organised by Live 8′s Harvey Goldsmith.
7. Dock Side Story
The ‘Dock Side Story’ show will take place in the 3,500-seater waterside stadium, with Vauxhall’s VXR range as the stars. Customised lowriders will also be putting in an appearance, driven by top racers and stunt drivers.
8. Taster Test Track
A dedicated 2.2 kilometre track where you can try out a range of cars from Citroen, SEAT, Mitsubishi, Toyota and Vauxhall.
9. The Saab 9-3 Convertible BioPower
Saab will use the Motor Show to present the world’s first fossil fuel free hybrid, the Saab 9-3 Convertible BioPower – the world’s first hybrid soft-top.
And not forgetting the best thing of all…
10. The Auto Trader stand
Your favourite magazine and website will have its own stand at the show. Get advice on buying or selling your car, and check out the winners of our ‘Curves and Chrome’ modded motor competition. Visit
http://www.autotradermotorshow.co.uk/
for more details.
How to haggle for a used car
Earlier this week we reported how buyers spend too much because they don
’t haggle, so how can you push down the price of a used car?
Dominic Sacco spoke with TV’s haggling master and Strictly Come Dancing star, Dominic Littlewood, and used car expert Jason Dawe, to help save you money.
Millions of pounds worth of classic cars will be auctioned tonight.
Millions of pounds worth of classic cars will be auctioned tonight.
A Mercedes Benz from the collection of Formula 1 mogul Bernie Ecclestone is expected to fetch up to £4 million as the historic cars change hands for a total of up to £20 million.
Basic Car Checks |
Many general checks can be carried out by the driver/owner but there may be safety and driving implications. For guidance, a skilled technician should be referred to for help in accordance to the manufacturer’s service schedule and the Owner’s manual or whenever you are unsure about what to do.
Maintenance you may need help with:
- Engine Oil
- Engine coolant level
- Radiator
- Brakes
- Air filter
- Battery – if this becomes flat you will need jump leads. To start your car off somebody else’s by attaching the positive terminals of each car together and the negative terminals of each car together then starting the engine.
- Exhaust
- Belts
- Shock absorbers
- Steering fluid -Transmission, brakes, clutch and power
Maintenance to consider in winter:
- Engine anti-freeze
- Special battery care
- Ignition and starting
Maintenance to consider in summer:
- Cooling system
- Suspension
Simple maintenance you can do:
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