Honda Pilot, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Honda Pilot, 2012

The Honda Pilot eight-passenger SUV receives a wide range of upgrades for 2012 with a sleeker front-end design, enhanced interior features and an EPA highway fuel economy rating of 25 mpg on two-wheel-drive models, an increase of 2 mpg compared to 2011 models.

The new styling for the front fascia, with its three-bar chrome-style grille, conveys a more sophisticated crossover SUV appearance. Interior styling changes focus on instrument panel refinement and a more intuitive button layout. For 2012, audio system upgrades on Honda Pilot EX and EX-L models include a 2 GB CD-Library (CD-L) and Bluetooth® Audio Streaming, along with the addition of Bluetooth HandsFreeLink® to those trim levels.

Feature upgrades on the Honda Pilot EX-L include the addition of a full-color 8-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) for audio and vehicle information. Models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System for 2012 receive subscription-free FM Traffic, 15 GB audio hard disk drive memory (HDD), and a higher-resolution display.

The fuel economy gains for 2012 result from combined improvements to the powertrain, chassis and vehicle aerodynamics. The 250 horsepower i-VTEC V-6 engine includes additional measures for friction reduction and improved efficiency. The 2012 Pilot becomes quieter with additional noise insulation and other enhancements throughout the vehicle.

Body
The 2012 Honda Pilot's new grille and front fascia replace the prior model's six-sided grille insert with a distinctive three-bar horizontal design. Reconfigured multi-reflector halogen headlights and turn signals contribute to the new look with a layout that relocates the turn signal from an outboard position to an inboard position within the headlight housing. A new front air dam and optimized strakes (the rectangular air deflector in front of the wheels) help reduce frontal area and unwanted air turbulence, both of which impact fuel economy. Rounding out the exterior design changes, Pilot EX and above models receive an all-new five-spoke, 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel design (plus 1-inch compared to the previous model). Honda Pilot Touring alloy wheels feature an exclusive six-spoke design with a high-contrast machined surface. Pilot LX models are equipped with 17-inch styled-steel wheels.

Exterior dimensions for 2012 are similar to 2011 with identical measurements for width (78.5 inches), height (71.0 inches for Pilot LX and 72.7 inches for Pilot EX, EX-L and Touring) wheelbase (109.2 inches) and track (front 67.7 / rear 67.5 inches). Overall length increases 0.5 inches to 191.4 inches as a result of the front styling changes. Ground clearance is basically the same at 7.97 inches, down slightly from 8.00 inches in the previous model.

Interior
Interior styling changes are designed to increase refinement throughout the cabin while also enhancing the intuitive nature of the controls. The instrument panel uses a more unified color theme with less contrast between panels. A glossy black center panel for audio controls replaces the high-contrast silver panel of the previous model. Speedometer and tachometer gauge faces incorporate a new look with distinct segments surrounding each meter's perimeter, along with white background illumination for nighttime driving instead of the previous model's aqua-blue background illumination. The redesigned center stack adds a subtle U-shaped character line and different textures to create a layered effect on the panel. Ideal for phones and audio players, a larger center storage pocket is 0.4-inches taller. A simplified layout for the climate controls replaces some of the buttons with dials for a more intuitive, easy-to-use overall design.

The top of the center stack on each Pilot model contains a unique display that varies by model. Honda Pilot LX and EX models contain a three-line display. Pilot EX-L models for 2012 (without navigation) receive the new i-MID, which provides a convenient platform for integration of vehicle information and compatible personal electronics through a color LCD screen and intuitive steering wheel controls. The Pilot EX-L rearview camera display appears in the i-MID and includes guidelines for judging parking distance. The i-MID also shows HandsFreeLink® operation, user-loaded wallpaper such as photos, a fuel-economy display and an audio interface.

Available on Honda Pilot EX-L and standard on Touring, the 2012 Pilot adopts the latest version of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™2. Now with 60 GB of total system memory (includes 15 GB allocated for user media) and voice recognition for three languages, this system uses multiple global positioning satellites covering all of the U.S. including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as Canada and Puerto Rico. Its new FM Traffic feature provides free, continuous updates on traffic and incidents, helping drivers avoid gridlock. The hard drive can store thousands of minutes of music, which is accessible by simple voice commands using the Song By Voice™ feature. Additionally, 2012 Pilot models with navigation feature a multi-view rear camera (wide view, normal view and top-down view), with the image displayed on the navigation screen for convenient parking help when in Reverse.

Adding to the comfort level of the 2012 Honda Pilot is a reduction in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). Enhanced body seam sealing around the unit-body connection points, and re-tuned rear suspension sub-frame mounts, result in lower noise levels in the passenger cabin. Other specific NVH countermeasures include body-seam sealants to reduce air leaks, enhanced pillar separators, revised insulation materials and acoustic windshield glass on all models.

The tailgate features a lift-up glass hatch for convenient access to the rearmost cargo area. The model's 18.0 cubic-feet of cargo space behind the third row matches or exceeds the trunk space of a typical large sedan and can accommodate items as large as a mid-size cooler or a folded stroller. For maximum cargo space, the second and third rows fold flat into the floor to create 87.0 cubic feet of storage capacity, while also providing sufficient width for 4-foot-wide items.

The cargo area has a hidden storage well that provides 2.8 cu-ft. of additional space and can combine with the above floor storage area by securing the hinged cover against the seatback. The Pilot Touring also provides a load-supporting cargo net (20 lbs. maximum weight) to further subdivide the rear cargo area.

Key interior dimensions are identical to the previous Pilot model, including front headroom (40.0 in. for Pilot LX and EX, 39.3 in. for moonroof-equipped Pilot EX-L and Touring), second-row headroom (39.8 in.) and rear headroom (38.2 in.), legroom (front 41.4 in., second-row 38.5 in., and third-row 32.1 in.). Passenger volumes are likewise identical (153.7 cu-ft. for Pilot LX and EX, 152.7 cu-ft. for Pilot EX-L and Touring), as are cargo volumes (87.0 cu-ft. total, 47.7 cu-ft. behind second-row seats, and 18.0 cu-ft. behind third-row seats).

Safety
Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure that helps reduce the amount of crash energy reaching the passenger compartment and can enhance frontal collision compatibility. Additional safety equipment includes three-row side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist. Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), commonly referred to as Electronic Stability Control, is standard on all models. The 2012 Honda Pilot also meets new federal regulations with taller rear head restraints.

Honda has targeted the new Pilot to achieve best-in-class safety ratings, including a NHTSA 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score, and a TOP SAFETY PICK designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reflecting the institute's new procedures for Front Offset, Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE), Roof Crush and Head Restraint tests.

Powertrain
Power comes from an advanced 24-valve, all-aluminum engine with "intelligent" Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) technology with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). The VCM system allows the V-6 engine to operate in six-cylinder mode for power and four- or three-cylinder modes for efficiency. Fuel economy improves for 2012 with an EPA-estimated city/highway/combined fuel economy of 17/24/20 mpg on 4-wheel-drive models and 18/25/21 mpg on 2-wheel-drive models. Representing a 1-mpg increase in City, a 2-mpg increase in Highway and a 2-mpg increase in Combined, this gives the 2012 Pilot 2WD the highest fuel economy of any 8-passenger SUV and the Honda Pilot 4WD the highest fuel economy for any mid-size 4WD SUV.

Fuel-efficiency enhancements include the application of engine friction-reduction technologies including a plateau-honed engine block, low-friction piston treatments, ion-plated oil rings and a load-variable alternator. The use of dual-electrode spark plugs, 0W-20 low-friction oil and low-friction automatic transmission fluid contribute to higher efficiency. The VCM operation range has also been expanded.

The 5-speed automatic transmission features Grade Logic Control to help maintain the most appropriate gear when going uphill or downhill, thereby avoiding gear "hunting." The available VTM-4 system on Pilot 4WD models adds fully automatic 4-wheel-drive capability. VTM-4 delivers seamless, "decision-free" application of 4-wheel-drive when needed, a key benefit compared to conventional systems. The system also provides a "lock mode" - available when in first or second gears up to 18 mph and activated by a button on the instrument panel - that can deliver the maximum-possible torque transfer to the rear wheels to aid in extraction from extremely low traction or stuck conditions.

Chassis
The suspension is a fully independent system with front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link with trailing arm designs that contribute to responsive driving characteristics for an SUV. The 109.2-inch wheelbase facilitates a smooth ride. A tight turning diameter of 37.9 feet aids maneuverability in tight parking situations.

Chassis improvements that directly improve fuel economy include a variable-displacement power steering pump, low-rolling-resistance tires, and low-drag front ventilated and rear disc brakes. Improved aerodynamics, the front strakes, splash shields and inner fenders, and reduced frontal area also contribute to improved fuel economy.

Models and Features
As with the prior model year, the 2012 Pilot is available in four model choices (Pilot LX, EX, EX-L and Touring), and each is offered in either 2-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive configuration.

Honda Pilot LX

Standard comfort and convenience features on the Pilot LX include a front and rear air conditioning system with air-filtration system, keyless entry with simplified operation, tilt and telescope steering column, cruise control, power windows with auto-up/down driver's and passenger's window, power door and tailgate locks, AM/FM/CD stereo system with seven speakers including a subwoofer and Radio Data System (RDS), trip computer, heat-rejecting tinted glass, integrated Class III towing receiver, and more. For 2012, the Pilot LX adds AAC audio file playback capability from data discs to the CD player.

Honda Pilot EX
The Pilot EX adds a tri-zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration, a power driver's seat with 10-way power adjustment with lumbar support, security system, XM Radio®, body-colored side mirrors and door handles, alloy wheels, roof rails, fog lights, exterior temperature indicator, HomeLink® Remote System, and more. For 2012, the Pilot EX now also features Bluetooth HandsFreeLink (previously exclusive to EX-L with Navi and above models), Bluetooth audio streaming and a new 2 GB CD Library (CD-L) replaces the previous 6-disc CD changer.

Honda Pilot EX-L
Additional Pilot EX-L features include leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, 4-way power front passenger's seat, one-touch power moonroof, an automatic-dimming rearview mirror and the availability of either the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ or the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System with a 9-inch screen. The addition of either the navigation or the entertainment system also adds a 115-volt power outlet. New for 2012 is the addition of a power tailgate to the Pilot EX-L, a USB Audio Interface, and an intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) with QVGA resolution. The i-MID includes a rearview camera display, iPod album artwork display and a user-loadable wallpaper function.

Honda Pilot EX-L with Navigation
The Pilot EX-L with Navigation adds an upgraded navigation system with higher VGA resolution replacing the previous QVGA display and an internal hard drive that replaces the previous model's DVD-based system. New features include FM Traffic, Song by Voice™, rearview camera with a 3-mode display and a Multi-Information Display in the center of the gauge cluster.

Honda Pilot Touring
The top-of-the-line Pilot Touring includes the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with rearview camera, a Premium Audio System with 10 speakers, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and Audio Streaming (with selected phones), the Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System, two-position memory seats, roof rails, corner and backup sensors, side-mirror integrated turn indicators and more.

Colors available for 2012 include Alabaster Silver Metallic, Bali Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Dark Cherry Pearl, Polished Metal Metallic, Taffeta White, White Diamond Pearl, new Dark Amber Metallic (replaces Mocha Metallic) and new Glacier White (Pilot Touring). Fabric and leather interior color choices, which are matched to selected exterior colors, include beige, black or gray.

Awards and Accolades
From building initial quality impressions to providing fun-to-drive character with lasting durability and reliability, the Pilot carries forward the essential DNA that defines all Honda vehicles. These traits have previously earned the Pilot multiple awards, including "Best Value of the Year" from IntelliChoice, Edmunds.com's "Most Wanted SUV," and it was named one of Kelley Blue Book's "Top 50 Most Popular Cars." The Honda brand has also won the Edmunds.com "Best Retained Value Award" for Non-Luxury Brands.

The Pilot is assembled from domestic and globally sourced parts at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama in Lincoln, Alabama. Honda R&D Americas designed and developed the Pilot in Raymond, Ohio, and Torrance, California. The 2012 model became available for sale on August 31, 2011.

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Nissan Tiida, 2012

 

 

 

• Nissan Tiida, 2012

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. premiered an all-new hatchback model at the 2011 Auto Shanghai. This new model will be the new generation Nissan Tiida in China.

The Nissan Tiida hatchback, introduced in China in 2005 from Dongfeng Nissan, is a pioneer in the compact hatchback market in China, selling 85,000 units in 2010. Sold globally in 165 countries, the Nissan Tiida is the best-selling model in the current Nissan product lineup.

The all-new Nissan Tiida is targeted toward young families who value quality life. With appeal points such as 'premium and agile styling', 'class leading comfort' and 'PURE DRIVE revolutionary powertrain', the new model will continue to be a leading model in the compact hatchback market in China. Nissan will also be the first Japanese automaker to introduce a turbo-charged engine in the Chinese market, with the introduction of the new Tiida's turbo series.

Based on a keyword 'Fluid & Brisk', the new Nissan Tiida delivers a new, premium feeling with a smooth, streamlined bodyside, well-balanced proportions and advanced-design exterior parts, such as grilles and lamps with refined details. To further enhance its spacious interior, which has been well received in the previous generation Tiida hatchback, the wheelbase length has been increased by 100mm to ensure best-in-class rear knee room. With increased length and breadth of the front window and optimally-shaped side mirrors for ease of use, visibility is significantly improved contributing to stress-free driving.

Interior design is developed using another keyword - 'Calm & Refined'. With a comfortable interior to embrace the driver and passengers, an elegant and precisely-crafted meter, a floating center cluster, and wide, super-soft armrests, the car provides premium space offering comfortable feeling in driving.

Driving comfort is also realized by soft, comfortable seats with low vibration which brings about less fatigue during driving.

Installed is a reliable, easy-to-handle, fuel-efficient Nissan HR16DE engine which has been employed in a number of Nissan vehicles. In addition, a range of PURE DRIVE low-emission technologies has also been added, such as latest dual injectors that provides far greater combustion efficiency by finely splashing fuel and Xtronic CVT with an auxiliary transmission. Select models of the all-new Nissan Tiida fully meet the stringent third phase fuel-efficiency requirements in China (draft data issued in Nov. 2009).

This new model, to be produced in the Dongfeng Nissan Huadu Plant in Guangzhou,  released in late May 2011. Followed by its introduction in China, it will be launched in approximately 130 countries around the world by 2014.

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Peugeot 107, 2013

 

 

 

•  Peugeot 107, 2013

The Peugeot 107 is renewed, more modern and even more urban, a spirited response to the thirst for autonomy, independence and freedom!
Its subtle and sophisticated style, inspired by the new look of the Peugeot marque, gives it a new power of attraction.

Great attention has been paid to its appeal without making any sacrifices in terms of its advantages when facing the constraints of city driving; it has become even more practical and fuel-efficient.

A market and customer base which is constantly changing
The Peugeot 107 evolves and is enriched with a regularly renewed range, special editions and new equipment, in order to keep up with customer expectations.

Its markets have developed too with 16 new countries making a total of 48 countries where it is now sold.
Like most vehicles in this category, the 107 is often the second or even the third vehicle of the household. On the other hand, it distinguishes itself from its segment with an even more predominantly female customer base and appeals to a higher proportion of single people.

The satisfaction that it offers, above all through its manoeuvrability, driving pleasure and economy is above the average for its segment.
After more than 665,000 vehicles produced by the end of 2011, the 107 is now writing a new chapter in its history.

Its aim: to develop its advantages in an increasingly competitive segment.

A new exterior style, subtle and sophisticated
With a completely redesigned front face and unchanged dimensions, the Peugeot 107 adopts the new style of the Peugeot marque, with a look that is both subtle and sophisticated, cut as closely as possible to the mechanics, while retaining its compactness.

The new, more curved bonnet incorporates the new identity of the marque, so the rib of the bonnet which frames the two-tone lion and the number plate repositioned in the centre of the lower front panel hint at its relationship with the 208.

While retaining their shape and their high position, the light units are more refined: at the front, they are extended and adopt a two-tone mask, echoing the colour of the marque emblem situated on the bonnet, whereas at the rear they are adorned with a dark mask thus framing the lamps with a deep ruby colour.

The new radiator grille, composed of honeycomb cells specific to the 107, forms a fine and distinguished mouth, suspended by the body colour that surrounds it.

"It is another interpretation of the floating grille, adapted to the size and architecture of the 107." Ivo Groen, 107 style manager

The new lower front panel has contact cappings - one on the front face and the other two at the side - both aesthetic and protective, particularly useful in urban driving conditions.

The Peugeot 107 adopts a new visual signature at the lower front panel by means of LED day running lamps that emphasise the side protectors, and - according to the model - foglamps animated by a chromed bead.

All of these style components, designed with the utmost care, associated with a sharp body sill line and new trims, give the 107 a new identity, modern and likeable, combining refinement and a strong and thoroughbred appeal.

Furthermore, the range of colours sees the addition of an exclusive new "Plum" colour, modern and attractive, which matches perfectly with its character.

Inside, new equipment and colour schemes
The new "Mistral" interior colour scheme, the new "Manhattan" seat upholstery and the twomaterial door and dashboard trims, which now sport a single black colour, improve the perceived quality of the passenger compartment and give it a touch of refinement.

New comfort equipment makes an appearance, such as:

•     The CD audio system has 2 additional speakers as standard or as an option according to the level of finish.
•     A new PC Bluetooth CD audio system available as an option, combined with 2 additional speakers, offers USB, MP3 and Bluetooth connections that are usually found on vehicles of higher segments.
•     A new steering wheel combined with a new gear lever knob, both leather trimmed, available as standard or as an option.

A simple range and improved features
The Peugeot 107 still has a simple range with 2 levels of finish, available in 3-door and 5-door versions and with 2 engines: 1.0i 5-speed manual and 1.0i 5-speed two-tronic manual.

Its features improve still further with its new audio system that contributes to a higher level of comfort.

The leather-trimmed steering wheel, standard with the two-tronic gearbox is also fitted with steering wheel paddles making the 107 even more manoeuvrable and agile.

It's LED day running lamps and the foglamps, now available as an option or as standard according to the model, contribute to the safety of its occupants, making it more visible in all conditions.

"Last but not least", already very well placed as regards environmental efficiency in its segment, the Peugeot 107 lowers its levels of CO2 emissions still further to 99 and 104 g/km respectively for the manual and two-tronic gearboxes.

It running costs are also improved with fuel consumption reduced to 4.3 and 4.5 l per 100km respectively for the manual and two-tronic gearboxes.

A truly feminine special edition!
A very feminine special edition christened "ENVY" will be available at the launch in March 2012. This fashionable and glamorous version, adorned with either the new "Plum" colour or "Caldera Black", bears special decorations with a cherry blossom branch motif, in particular stickers on the rear door, the bonnet and the tailgate, a "Plum" colour embroidered and braided mat and a rev counter central decoration.

Aluminium door sills and a badge give an additional touch of refinement.
A style line taking up the cherry blossom branch motif is also available. It has a clever handbag pocket, ideal for organising your belongings and changing handbag without forgetting anything, as well as a very practical handbag hook - retractable and therefore compact - which is extremely useful for keeping your handbag "to hand and in sight", without placing it on the floor.

A wide range of personalisation and comfort accessories
With accessories developed especially for it, the Peugeot 107 also fulfils the desire for distinction and adapts to different uses.

Alloy wheels, a brushed aluminium gear lever knob, chromed effect door sills or mats embroidered with "107" give a touch of elegance and a distinctive character.

On the practical side, a retractable navigation system which has a connection for an iPhone or iPod and which integrates perfectly into the dashboard and a central armrest with storage compartment improve comfort and driving pleasure still further.

As regards the side mouldings, these will protect the bodywork against urban impacts.
For leisure pursuits, the Peugeot 107 offers various roof boxes and roof bars for transporting bicycles, skis, etc. and numerous other accessories are also waiting to be discovered in the Peugeot network.

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Nissan Sylphy Concept, 2012

 

 

 

 

• Nissan Sylphy Concept, 2012

Nissan developed a one-class-above solution that exceeds customers' expectations - retaining the popular features of the current model while upgrading design, perceived quality, roominess and performance. In fact, Nissan has virtually re-imagined the category, delivering high quality styling outside and spacious, quiet comfort inside with the latest "smart" amenities, plus remarkable fuel efficiency.

Design with Excitement and Confidence
Just looking at the all-new global sedan inspires excitement and confidence. The lowered stance and well-proportioned aerodynamic body create a strong presence, while the elegantly upswept character line expresses dynamic yet refined performance. The front grille and LED-bordered headlamps contribute to the premium image and help create a modern look. LED taillights, a sharply angled trunk lid and eye-catching chrome trim add to the tastefully-styled one-class-above appearance.

Roomy, High Quality Interior
The modern design language of the exterior is carried over to the spacious interior with high quality materials and cabin details crafted to please the senses. Within the roomy cabin, passengers enjoy generous shoulder room and legroom one would expect in more expensive vehicles. The trunk's capacity is among the best in its class. Thorough noise isolation, vibration absorption, and an advanced suspension with optimized high-stiffness body assure a peacefully smooth ride. Amenities for comfort and convenience include dual-zone air conditioning, Intelligent Key and keyless pushbutton ignition.

Impressive Fuel Economy
With its new 1.8 liter engine and next-generation XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), the all-new global sedan delivers impressive fuel efficiency. A long piston stroke and Twin Continuously variable valve timing control (C-VTC) optimize combustion, while hydrogen-free Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coating on valve lifters halves friction of previous coatings and beehive valve springs reduce friction and inertial loss. The next-generation XTRONIC CVT is lighter and more compact than previous designs, yet achieves greater efficiency and a wider gear ratio range, thanks to an auxiliary transmission with sub planetary gears and smaller pulleys. This environmentally-friendly performance reflects Nissan's global PURE DRIVE commitment to reducing CO2 emissions through developing fuel efficient internal combustion engine (ICE) technologies and introducing them into the market.

The new model, to be produced at the Dongfeng Nissan Huadu Plant facilities in Guangzhou, will be released in mid 2012. Following its introduction in China, the car will be launched in most major markets worldwide during the course of 2012 and approximately 120 countries by 2014.

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Mini Clubvan, 2013

 

 

 

 

•  Mini Clubvan, 2013

The personality and hallmark driving fun of the MINI brand is coming to a whole new group of customers with the launch of the new MINI Clubvan.

Making its global premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the world's first premium compact delivery van has five doors, but only two seats. That means outstanding levels of practicality and storage, making it the perfect new member of the team for any business with an eye for style.

Key to the Clubvan's appeal is its spacious load bay. It extends from the wide-opening double doors at the back of the vehicle to a sturdy internal bulkhead immediately behind the driver and passenger seats. That's made from a solid aluminium lower section with a steel mesh upper, and stowed cargo can also be accessed through the two rear doors or via the Clubdoor on the driver's side.

The blocked-out rear side windows are body-coloured and feature interior polycarbonate reinforcement. Combined with tinted glass in the rear doors, it means the load compartment is both secure and concealed from prying eyes.

Inside, the cargo area stretches back 115 cm and, even at its narrowest point just behind the rear doors, is 102 cm wide. With the bulkhead to protect the driver and/or passenger, it can be loaded right to the roof which measures 84cm at its highest point. That means 860 litres of space and a maximum payload capacity of 500 kg.

The load floor is completely flat for ease-of-use, and both it and the side walls are trimmed in high-quality upholstery. Above, an anthracite roof liner runs the full length of the vehicle. Six heavy duty attachment loops are recessed into the floor at the sides to help prevent cargo from moving around in transit, while multiple 12-volt sockets can be used to power electrical equipment.

In common with all MINIs, the Clubvan will offer owners outstanding driving dynamics. Featuring powertrain and chassis technology from the Clubman, it comes with powerful and efficient four-cylinder engines. Three versions will be available; the 72 kW/98 hp MINI One Clubvan, the 90 kW/122 hp MINI Cooper Clubvan and the 82 kW/112 hp MINI Cooper D Clubvan. All come with MINI's familiar front-wheel-drive set-up, Electric Power Steering, MacPherson strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension and powerful brakes. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, but an optional six-speed automatic transmission is also available.

Also standard are MINIMALISM features including Auto Start/Stop, Shift Point Display, Brake Energy Regeneration and on-demand operation of ancillary units. These will help business users keep a tight rein on fuel consumption and offers exceptionally low running costs. For example, the MINI Cooper D Clubvan offers official combined fuel economy of 72.4 mpg, meanwhile CO2 emissions of just 103 g/km put the vehicle into an exceptionally low tax bracket.

Built in Britain at Plant Oxford, the Clubvan is true to the now-familiar MINI design language and features the same classic lines that have become the hallmark of the brand. Based on the Clubman platform, its exterior dimensions are identical to those of its sibling. It's 3,961 mm long, 1,683 mm wide and 1,426 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,547 mm. The Clubvan is the seventh unique member of the MINI family, selling alongside the Clubman, Hatch, Convertible, Countryman, Coupe and Roadster.

It is the first commercial vehicle to be offered since the MINI brand was relaunched under BMW's ownership in 2001. Because of that classification business users can claim back their VAT.

The newcomer's heritage can be traced back to 1960, when the original Mini - launched a year earlier - was joined in showrooms by the Morris Mini Van. With an extra 10cm in the wheelbase, closed-off load compartment and split rear door, it offered exactly the sort of workhorse capability that urban commercial users of the time required.

The new Clubvan is bringing that tradition of MINI practicality right up to date, while adding the brand's modern values of outstanding driving performance, high standard specification and exceptional style. The Clubvan comes with much higher specification than any comparable van in the segment with items such as DAB radio, air-conditioning, electric windows, anti-theft alarm and side and head airbags included as standard.

The MINI Clubvan is available in four exterior colours - Pepper White, Ice Blue, British Racing Green metallic and Midnight Black metallic. The roof, rear side window area, C-pillars and exterior mirror caps are body-coloured on all versions. The standard 15-inch Delta-spoke alloy wheels, which are exclusive to the MINI Clubvan, can be replaced by alternative 15, 16 or 17-inch alloy wheel designs.

The inside, black seats with Cosmos fabric upholstery, a black interior colour scheme and Fine White Silver trim strips are standard. The specification has been carefully considered to be in keeping with the functional and practical character of the vehicle. However, the interior can be customised to suit individual requirements. Options include black sports seats, which are available in Ray Cloth/Leather, Punch Leather or Lounge Leather.

Like every other MINI, the Clubvan can be personalised from the brand's extensive range of optional extras. These enhance comfort, convenience, driving enjoyment, safety and practicality. Expected to prove popular are xenon headlights, black headlight shells, adaptive headlights, automatic climate control, park distance control, automatically dimming interior and exterior mirrors and a trailer hitch. The optional MINI navigation system, as well as MINI Connected, with the Google send to car service will keep the Clubvan heading in the right direction on its delivery runs.

The MINI Clubvan brings a new blend of sophistication and style to the business sector. Its blend of practicality and premium features means commercial customers could include caterers, event planners, small retail businesses or photographers. However, it will also appeal to some drivers with outdoor-based adventure hobbies such as cycling or mountaineering, where high-value equipment needs to be kept secure.

Retail prices, excluding VAT:
    MINI One Clubvan: £11,175
    MINI Cooper Clubvan: £12,475
    MINI Cooper D Clubvan: £13,600

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