SUBARU & ISUZU REVIEWS COMING SOON

RobMcSorleyonCARS.com is pleased to announce that we will soon be reviewing Subaru and Isuzu cars with the cooperation of Subaru/Isuzu Press UK

Check back soon to read our in-depth reviews.

2012 Suzuki Kizashi FULL ROAD TEST

Suzuki Kizashi 2.4 Sport CVT 4dr

Suzuki is world famous for its hatchbacks and four-wheel-drive models, not forgetting their motorbikes. When it was revealed that a large saloon was on the cards there was a lot of doubt over what the outcome would be. The Kizashi arrived in early 2012 and was designed with the American market in mind, we get behind the wheel to find out if this curious creation can live up to the origins of its name which in English translates to "a sign of great things to come"

2012 Peugeot 508 Saloon FULL ROAD TEST (Josh Ross)

Peugeot 508 GT 2.2 HDI 4 dr

Background and First Impressions

Available in either saloon or estate guises and with petrol, diesel or hybrid power, Peugeot’s 508 replaces both the 407 and 607 models. The nomenclature also breaks with the 4 series badging that Peugeot employed for its mid-sized cars. This line began with the 1934 401 and included the 405 and 406 – two class leaders that helped underwrite and maintain Peugeot’s reputation as the choice for enthusiasts. Instantly recognisable for its imposing, bold flanks and nose the 508 was launched in 2011 and is a befitting replacement for the 407.

The strongest design element is the two creases that run from either side of the grille to the A pillars. Beneath these another indentation travels from the headlight to the rear lamp cluster – this complex arrangement gives a ‘layer’ effect to the metalwork. It’s a joy to behold and gives the car a striking appearance; pronounced further in the Pearl White metallic paint of the model that I had on test.

Featuring Peugeot’s recently introduced design language the 508 drew positive, intrigued glances from many motorists and pedestrians. Features like the floating grille, swept back headlights, subtly rippled bonnet and newly stylised brand emblem are present across the range, while the strongest visual links are with Peugeot’s 208 and recently revised 308 and 107 models.

2012 Mitsubishi Shogun FULL ROAD TEST

 

 Mitsubishi Shogun Black Edition Auto

Menacing isn't it? This is the Shogun Black Edition, Mitsubishi's latest addition to the rugged Shogun family which is based on the top spec SG4.  It comes drenched in standard equipment including a Rockford entertainment unit that has three DVD players, Dolby Surround sound and a music server. The fourth generation Shogun has been around for a rather long time now but is there still life in the old dog yet? We find out

If you’re a fan of swanky looking four-by-fours to wow your affluent friends look away now, this is a car for people who need a rugged car with genuine ability when the terrain turns ugly. Despite this the Shogun is still visually appealing for very different reasons.

It’s a design that has been slowly updated over the years in all of the key areas so despite the dated looking glass area and relatively short wheelbase the rest of the design is bang up-to-date. At the front there is more than a hint of Range Rover and a short overhang results in a good entry/departure angles when off-road. The side profile still looks fresh enough thanks to the absolutely massive 20” alloy wheels and swollen arches. At the back the spare wheel is traditionally mounted on the door-like tailgate and the clear rear lights look good.

The Black Edition we are testing here cranks up the look further with satin black everywhere including the front grill, mirrors, roof, door handles and those wheels. For those who find it all a little too dark can specify other colours including white, metallic silver, red and brown.

The interior is a really rather nice place to spend time, we especially liked the commanding driving position making it easy to peer over everything else on the road. The design itself is as you would expect; durable, well designed and good to look at. Everything is nicely laid out and operates with precision. It’s also pleasing that a lot of the materials are soft touch and the dials wouldn't look out of place in any other Mitsubishi and are dead easy to read. The only let-down is the brittle feeling multi-function computer on the centre console with its large pixel display and flimsy trim around the ancient-looking heated seat switches.

Cabin space is generous all-round with acres of rear leg, head and shoulder room. In the cavernous boot there are an additional pair of seats that pivot from under the floor, these also benefit from decent space for younger passengers. Those in the back will however find the pair of headrest-mounted multimedia screens an unexpected luxury. Passengers can watch DVDs, plug in USB devices, play games or even listen to different radio stations. They also come with wireless headphones to avoid annoying mum and dad in the front or coupled with the dash-mounted head-unit all passengers can watch the same movie in Dolby 5.1 Surround sound which incorporates a boot mounted Sub-woofer.

As soon as you turn the key you know you are sitting behind a pretty beastly engine. The Shogun is fitted with Mitsubishi’s 3.2 Litre 197bhp DI-DC turbo diesel mated to a 5-speed automatic gearbox. At idle there is no hiding its more agricultural roots which make for a gruff engine note. On the move refinement improves as speeds increase and when cruising on motorways when the unit is warm everything settles down. Performance isn’t blistering but at 11.1 seconds to 62mph it also isn’t bad especially considering its 2.2 tonne kerb weight. The gearbox itself is very good keeping stray revs under control with the option of swapping cogs manually with a nudge of the gear shifter.

For a car of such epic proportions the Shogun actually drives very well. Considering the massive wheels it rides well enough over most surfaces only really getting caught out around town where it can become a little choppy. The steering is also communicative enough although it can feel a little heavy. Taking corners with excess speed would be a silly idea as the Shogun serves up plenty of body roll but it always feels safe, under control and cossets passengers with minimal wind and road noise.

It will come as no surprise that Shogun excels off-road. Although its difficult to assess the cars outright ability off the beaten track we did however give it a go on a very slippery, muddy farm track. It coped very well once the locking differential was activated for optimum traction. Despite our cars standard road tyres it was impossible to get stuck which will really appeal to those who live in more rural areas.

Words and Photos by Rob McSorley

Price as tested: £41,999

Engine: 3.2 litre 16v 197bhp - 0-62mph: 11.1secs - Maximum Speed: 111mph -

Economy: 28mpg (urban) –37.7mpg (extra-urban), 33.2mpg (combined) - Emissions: 224g/km (Band K) - VED (12 months): £600

Dimensions: Length: 1430mm - Width: 1395mm - Height: 1110mm - Wheelbase: 2780mm

*data from Mitsubishi UK

The Verdict

At just under £42,000 you could be fooled into thinking that the Black Edition is expensive but when you consider the standard fit goodies on-board such as Sat nav, Reversing camera, iPod connection, Cruise control, Electric windows, Heated leather seats, and Auto lights and wipers it begins to make a better case for itself. Spec a Land Rover Discovery to the same level and you will be looking at an astonishing £55,000. Owners will however need deep pockets to run the Shogun as even when driven carefully we only managed to return 24mpg but the big fuel tank prevented too many fill-ups. Emissions are class leading putting the big Mitsubishi into Band K resulting in £600 for the first year and £260 thereafter. If you are looking for a no-nonsense, rugged off-roader unstoppable in any weather condition then the Shogun is definitely worth a look. Whilst with us we found it comfortable, refined on motorways and perfect for carrying heavy loads including the whole family. Mitsubishi are also  renowned for their bomb-proof reliability and the Shogun is perhaps the best example of this.

You will like;

-Off-road ability

-Bulletproof reliability

-Cabin space

-Rugged looks

-Standard fit equipment

You won’t like;

-Gruff engine

-Dated in places

All photographs and text are the exclusive property of Rob McSorley (except where stated otherwise). They are made available for your personal viewing enjoyment only. No images are within the Public Domain. The photographs may not be copied, reproduced, redistributed, manipulated, projected, used or altered in any way without the prior permission of Rob Mcsorley (info@robmcsorleyoncars.com).

2013 RANGE ROVER REVEALED

The new fourth generation Range Rover will be the last word in 4x4 luxury as well as performance, aiming at a burgeoning £100,000 plus market.

These might be straightened economic times for many people but there is plenty of demand for high-end luxury in many parts of the world.

Talking at the unveil for the new Range Rover last night, global product marketing manager Finbar McFall said: "We will certainly be targeting those buyers but we will not forsake our heartland."

That means there will be plenty of sub-£100,000 models. In fact there will be a staggering 18,000 options from which to choose taking in the myriad interior and exterior choices, including lavish leathers and wonderful woods.

At the very top end you can even specify a 29-speaker Meridian audio system with sub woofer which the Range Rover people claim is the best sound you will find in any car.

McFall said: "Following on from the launch of the Evoque last year this brand has momentum and ambition. Demand for the Evoque remains strong around the world and we have added a third shift and round-the-clock, 24-hour assembly at our Halewood plant.

"With the fourth generation Range Rover we have listened to our customers who told us not to change the Range Rover, just make it better."

In terms of making it better, engineers and designers set themselves a staggering 175,000 targets for the new model and the result is a lighter, more refined, more efficient and more durable model.

It is 27mm longer and has a slightly lower roof line giving the big Range Rover a more dynamic look and manages to achieve more head, leg and elbow room.

The engineers have saved some 420kg in weight, which means they have been able to offer a smaller diesel engine, the 3-litre TDV6, for the first time. This provides 258hp and a 7.4 second 0-60 sprint.

There is also a re-worked version of the current 4.4-litre TDV8 diesel along with the 510hp supercharged petrol engine.

Also coming will be a hybrid which chief programme engineer Alex Heslop said has "all the capabilities on and off road of any Range Rover. It will be the most capable hybrid 4x4 ever."

The hybrid will use a 50kw lithium ion battery working with the 3-litre TDV6.

The new Range Rover also adds the panoramic sunroof first seen on the Evoque which has seen a 70 per cent take up of this option.

The latest model will make its show debut in Paris at the end of this month and is due to go on sale from January.

2012 SEAT Ibiza FULL ROAD TEST

Seat Ibiza FR 1.4 TSI DSG 3dr

Since parent company Volkswagen took the reigns at SEAT in 1990 it has strived to carve the Spanish brand a neat section of the market with products that are more daring and sporty than Skodas or Volkswagens. SEAT could be described then as the wild child of the family, perhaps the unruly teenager that likes to have far too much fun.

The Ibiza has been SEAT’s best-selling model for a very long time, few realise that its been about for nearly 30 years and is now in its fourth generation. Earlier this year the Polo-based hatch received a thorough reworking to keep it fresh in the face of increased opposition. Until the new Cupra (Cup Racing) comes along the sportiest model is the FR (Formula Racing) which as of 2012 is available in a number of body styles and power outputs. We test the most potent petrol model to find out if it’s any good.

READ MORE

Peugeot 2008 CONCEPT

Forging ahead with a competitive position in the B segment, Peugeot has extended its traditional position with a new, broader, all-encompassing approach. So, the 208 was designed in accordance with an ambitious specification to re-generate the small hatchback. It went on sale in Europe at the end of March 2012, and in the UK at the end of June, prior to an industrial and commercial launch in Latin America in 2013.

In Beijing earlier this year, Peugeot revealed the ‘Urban Crossover Concept' to the Chinese public, a contemplation of the motor vehicle in an increasingly urban world.

Now, at the Paris Motor Show, the Marque is presenting the 2008 Concept. This concept car gives further thrust to its international conquest strategy, for which all its talents have been mobilised. The engineers and stylists have worked together in Europe, China and Latin America to create this seductive future vehicle of the range.

The city and Peugeot evolve together

From Sao Paulo to Shanghai, from London to Kuala Lumpur, from the Cape to Moscow, the city lives, evolves and grows. The human race is becoming increasingly urban, at a rate not seen before. A new generation of city dwellers is coming alive. Connected, curious, they share numerous aspirations, regarding the way in which they keep themselves informed of news occurring across the Planet.

Peugeot has included several continents in the development of a new concept car with a view to marketing to an international clientele. So, for them, with them, the Peugeot Style teams in Paris, Shanghai and Sao Paulo have all created the 2008 Concept. It will go into production, as close as possible to its customers, first in France (Mulhouse) then in China (Wuhan) and later in Brazil (Porto Real).

The Marque mobilises its experience

With more than 15 million ‘2' series vehicles, Peugeot benefits from a credible history in the domain of compact cars. This is further reinforced by the new 208, which has re-generated the codes of the segment. Recently, the marque has acquired legitimacy in the domain of the Crossover, with the commercial success of the 3008 and the inspiration drawn from the SXC Concept Car shown at the Shanghai Motor Show in 2011.

Wishing to merge these two fields of excellence into a new vehicle, Peugeot has developed the 2008 Concept, a small vehicle combining agility, compactness, versatility and a striking style for young-minded city dwellers who love the city, while also loving to escape from it.

Its unique identity originates from the marriage of the elegance and refinement of the hatchback, the impertinence and mischievousness of the SUV combined with remarkable versatility and occupant space for this segment. Capitalising on the process of re-generation unveiled by the 208, the urban nature of the 2008 Concept is established by compact dimensions: 4.14m long and 1.74m wide.

A unique style, combining elegance and strength

The 2008 Concept naturally bears the stylistic codes of the Marque. With its athletic and sleek lines it imposes its bold posture which overturns and reinvents the standards of the larger vehicles in the small-vehicles segment.

It is painted fluorescent yellow with Velvet matt varnish, a very luminous colour which is full of energy. The body is punctuated with Dark Chrome details, accentuating the modernity and elegance of this concept car.

From a coherent overall volume the 2008 Concept succeeds in combining a variety of impressions. The front face is refined and full of presence, where bonnet and wings give a reassuring impression of protection and strength. This perception is identical at the rear where the shape combines solidity with dynamism.  The profile unites the two faces by means of the slender link which begins with the inclined windscreen and continues with the continuous roof line to the spoiler. And so a profiled and very aerodynamic silhouette is outlined. The side lines, traced in the direction of the road, give the impression of a lively, sleek and dynamic vehicle.

The 2008 Concept pays particular attention to detail. The ‘floating grille' has a design cut into the metal, combined with a sophisticated dual-aspect treatment following the example of the new marque emblem. The headlamps, of a precise and unique design, bear the Peugeot identity. Their contours follow the technical functions as closely as possible and so form the sharp pupil of a cat. Chiselled in form, they are aligned with the front face, giving it an even more expressive and individual character.

The 2008 Concept also has very sensuous and sophisticated sculpted wings and sides, indicating natural athletic qualities. The large wheels, the design of their wheel arches and the ground clearance symbolise an active life without restraint; agile, versatile and lightweight.

In profile, the curve of the roof accentuates the upper decoration of the rear doors. Exclusive, cut into the metal, it appears crimped into the bodywork. This refinement also marks the precise design of the aluminium spoiler and roof bars which give the appearance of a vehicle designed for speed and leisure.

A 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine

Under its sleek bonnet the 2008 Concept is equipped with a development of the new generation 3-cylinder petrol engines. In harmony with the dynamism and power exuded by this concept car, the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine has a turbo and direct injection.  Developing its energy while remaining lightweight, it contributes to the versatility of the 2008 Concept with a power of 110bhp. This is combined with low fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

Components of the Group's down-sizing strategy, these 3-cylinder engines permit a breakthrough in terms of consumption and CO₂ while offering real driving pleasure.

2012 Peugeot RCZ FULL ROAD TEST

Peugeot RCZ GT THP 200 & GT HDi 163 

“Isn't she lovely, Isn't she wonderful”, poignant lyrics from the 1976 hit from the legend that is Stevie Wonder. Also words that fitted Peugeot’s reputation at the time as a maker of beautifully styled cars such as the 504 coupe with its superb rear wheel drive chassis.

Sadly since the demise of the equally brilliant 306 Peugeot seem to have lost their way a little with a wash of questionable looking models with average on road manners missing out on the sparkle that everyone used to love so much.

There was however a glimmer of hope for the french firm in the form of the 308 RC Z Concept Car that was revealed at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. Opinions were unanimous - it had to be built. Fast forward to 2010 and our prayers were answered, the RCZ had made it to the market and surprisingly unscathed during the transition from concept car to production ready coupe.

Tasked with bringing back the spirit missing from previous Peugeots the RCZ has a lot to live up to.We get behind the wheel of both the range topping THP 200 and HDi 163 to find out whether the lion has got its claws back...

Considering the RCZs humble beginnings - based heavily on the 308 hatch- Peugeot have done  an amazing job in creating a design that turns heads. Its sleek body hunkers down on the generous 19” alloy wheels with its proud wheel arches drawing attention to the significantly widened tracks and broad rear haunches.

The front fascia is typically Peugeot with its massive gaping mouth grill and feline headlights but for the first time it seems to fit the car perfectly, almost as if it was intended for the RCZ all along.

The rear is even better with its flat deck, neatly concealed rising rear spoiler and slicked-back lights. Not to mention the oh-so-sexy double-bubble roof that wouldn't look out of place on a car costing ten times as much. Its an incredibly daring design but it manages to look sleek, sporty, sophisticated and expensive.

Inside the 308 roots are evident as the dashboard and switchgear are exactly the same which isn’t as bad as it sounds. In GT trim the whole interior is clad in quality leather, there are also racy looking dials and a plush-looking clock in place of the centre air-vent.

Everything feels well built and perfectly befitting of a premium coupe. The rest of the cabin is unique to the RCZ including the figure-hugging seats, thick carpets and so-so ergonomics. For example the handbrake is on the wrong side of the centre console which is very annoying.

The seating position is much lower in the RCZ bringing the drivers bottom nearer to the ground but there is still bags of adjustment in the driving position although visibility is restricted.

If you were thinking those rear seat will come in handy, think again - they are almost useless as the front seats don’t slide forward and even if you do manage to get into the back there is no leg or headroom. You can, however, fold the rear seats flat increasing the already generous 309 litre boot for genuine practicality.

We were lucky enough to sample the RCZ in both diesel and petrol forms and were surprised by the similarities in the two. The petrol comes in the form of a 1.6 litre THP (Turbo High Pressure) engine generating a healthy 200 bhp (with 206lb ft @1770 rpm) designed in conjunction with BMW(MINI).

The diesel powerplant is the familiar 2.0 HDi with 163bhp (with 240lb ft @2000 rpm), both are mated to the same slick-shifting 6 speed manual gearbox - although the THP 200 has a shorter shift action for quicker changes. Both engines feel similar in their responses thanks to their delivery of torque, the diesel is perfectly swift with linear power delivery and a 0-60mph time of 8.7 seconds but still managing to achieve 53.2mpg combined.

On the other hand the THP 200 sees 60 mph in just 7.6 seconds and thanks to a clever dash-membrane provides a lovely roarty soundtrack when pushed. Despite the additional power on offer 42.1mpg is achievable if driven carefully - deeply impressive for a petrol engine.

On the road you would have no idea that underneath the svelte body work lies the unimpressive 308 chassis. With its simple torsion beam suspended rear and utterly conventional macpherson strut arrangement up front you may think that the little Peugeot would struggle to raise pulses. You would be wrong!

The RCZ has much wider tracks, lowered hardened suspension and much wider tyres - not forgetting beefier brakes all round. It also has a much lower centre of gravity. The result is, well, genious.

As soon as you set of the RCZ feels poised, alert, grippy and above all - fun. Body control is superb with minimal roll in corners and bags of grip, the gearbox and steering feel perfectly weighted - the latter much heavier than you would find in a 308.

Take the RCZ through a series of challenging corners and it devours them with real vigour. We just wish the steering had a little more feedback and mid-corner ridges did not upset your driving line -  everything else is spot on. What strikes you most is how much fun can be had at sensible speeds.

The differences between the HDi diesel and THP 200 petrol depend largely on your priorities. The petrol RCZ has harder, tighter suspension than the already taught HDi resulting in marginally better body control and a crisper turn-in but a less resolved ride. The short-shift gearbox and more rev-happy  nature of the THP 200 also makes for a more enjoyable drive if a little more tiring. The HDi on the other hand perhaps strikes a more likeable balance with the addition of improved fuel economy and better refinement.

With a starting price of £21,210 for the base petrol THP 156 in Sport trim buyers get a lot of talent for very little cash. Compared to its closest rival the VW Scirocco there is a saving of around £200 to be had but considering the styling of the RCZ we think its well worth it. Top spec (special edition) Asphalt THP 200 spec will set you back just under £30,000 which although cheaper than the VW (Scirocco R) offers much less in terms of performance.

Words and Photos by Rob McSorley

Technical Data

GT THP 200

Price as tested: £25,945

Engine: 1.6 16v 200bhp - 0-62mph:7.6 secs - Maximum Speed: 146mph -

Economy: 32.1mpg (urban) –50.4mpg (extra-urban), 42.1mpg (combined) - Emissions: 146g/km (Band G) - VED (12 months): £160

Dimensions: Length: 4290mm - Width: 1845mm - Height: 1352mm - Wheelbase: 2612mm

GT HDi 163

Price as tested: £25,395

Engine: 2.0 16v 163bhp - 0-62mph: 8.7secs - Maximum Speed: 137mph -

Economy: 41.5mpg (urban) –62.7mpg (extra-urban), 53.2mpg (combined) - Emissions: 139g/km (Band E) - VED (12 months): £110

Dimensions: Length: 4290mm - Width: 1845mm - Height: 1352mm - Wheelbase: 2612mm

*data from Peugeot UK

The Verdict

The RCZ represents a real turnaround for Peugeot. Not only is it a stonkingly good car to look at and be seen in it also offers genuine driving thrills. No matter which engine or trim level you choose you will end up with a well equipped, high quality car that is sure to turn heads wherever it goes. Above all the RCZ is a rare car that does exactly what it has been designed to do but wrapped up in an affordable package with impressively low running costs. Those who cannot see past the Peugeot badge are missing out on something really special. Those who do try an RCZ are likely to fall in love with it as we did and will revel in the knowledge that Peugeot do still have the ability to build drivers cars.

You will like;

-Beautiful looks

-Thrilling drive

-Big boot

-Low running costs

You won’t like;

-Pointless rear seats
-High price in top trim level

All photographs and text are the exclusive property of Rob McSorley (except where stated otherwise). They are made available for your personal viewing enjoyment only. No images are within the Public Domain. The photographs may not be copied, reproduced, redistributed, manipulated, projected, used or altered in any way without the prior permission of Rob Mcsorley (mrrobertmcsorley@gmail.com).

2013 Ford Mondeo REVEALED

Ford today debuted the stylish all-new global Mondeo at its "Go Further" brand event, to reveal a sleek design and new levels of premium-level interior craftsmanship.

Built on Ford's global CD-segment platform, the refined new version of the Ford flagship will be available as a five-door and wagon - uniquely developed for Europe - as well as a four-door that will also be offered as segment-first petrol Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV).

It will be the first car in its segment equipped with a 1.0-litre powertrain, the 2012 "International Engine of the Year" 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, to deliver expected best-in-class fuel economy.

"This is the most premium Mondeo we've ever built and the most premium vehicle Ford's loyal European customers have ever been offered," said Barb Samardzich, Vice President, Product Development, Ford of Europe. "It raises the bar in its segment in terms of style, technology and quality."

Ford's new global design language informs the all-new Mondeo's refined, elegant, sporty and highly expressive exterior. The low roofline enhances the sports coupe profile while retaining a spacious and practical interior, and incorporates a retractable panoramic glass roof for the wagon bodystyle.

The lean side-profile is sculpted to convey "visual lightness", while the sophisticated and technical front end design features Ford's new, more prominent trapezoidal grille, a power-dome bonnet and segment-first adaptive, full LED headlamps.

Mondeo is the first Ford to feature headlamps with LED high-beam, low-beam and signal lighting. Quicker to illuminate, more durable and more energy-efficient than traditional filament bulb headlamps, the all-new Mondeo's LED headlamps turn with the steering and adapt beam projection to vehicle speed - providing a greater depth of illumination at high speeds and a wider field of vision at slower speeds.

The interior delivers unprecedented levels of ergonomics and comfort, with superior craftsmanship throughout the driver-focused cockpit. Soft-touch materials, premium finishes and equipment contribute to the most premium Mondeo experience ever.

The all-new four-door Mondeo HEV is Ford's first hybrid passenger car for Europe, and combines a specially-developed 2.0-litre petrol engine with a 35kW lithium-ion battery to provide  high fuel economy and low CO₂ emissions. For the first time on Mondeo, a diesel all-wheel drive variant will be offered, delivering superior traction, performance and handling.

Mondeo will also offer segment-first SYNC with MyFord Touch a voice-activated in-car connectivity system that delivers an eight-inch colour touchscreen and the ability to act as a WiFi hotspot for up to five devices.

SYNC with MyFord Touch will enable drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while controlling phone and media player functions from connected devices, as well as the vehicle's climate control, radio and CD-player, and navigation system, using voice commands.

 All new Mondeo also delivers the European debut of Ford's rear inflatable seatbelts. These are designed to reduce head, neck and chest injuries for rear-seat passengers. In the event of an accident the belt rapidly expands to disperse crash forces across a body area five times greater than that achieved by a conventional seatbelt.

2013 all-new Global Ford Transit & Transit Connect REVEALED

Ford today revealed a new generation of world-class Transit commercial vehicles at its "Go Further" event.

Developed under its "One Ford" global product strategy in Europe, the Ford Transit and Ford Transit Connect models will be sold in Europe, North America and other worldwide markets, with product ranges tailored to the needs of customers in each region.

"These new products will carry more, work harder, last longer, and cost our customers less to operate - just as Ford Transits have done for 47 years," said Barb Samardzich, vice president Product Development, Ford of Europe. "The unprecedented launch of two all-new Transit models will extend Ford's leadership in serving commercial vehicle customers around the world."

The introduction of the new generation Transit and Transit Connect models is a major step in Ford's commitment to completely redesign its entire commercial vehicle line-up for Europe by the end of 2013.

Using the latest global platforms, the two models highlight Ford's new approach to delivering the next generation of class-leading commercial vehicles to meet the needs of customers in all worldwide markets.

The new range builds on almost 50 years of experience in creating market-leading commercial vans and was engineered at Ford's Centre of Excellence for commercial vehicles in Europe;  applying global product development resources.

The all-new Ford Transit replaces the heavier two-tonne Transit derivatives in Europe and other worldwide markets, and will eventually replace the popular Ford E-Series range in North America. Tough, functional and professional, new Transit brings new levels of capability and versatility to the medium commercial van market.

Offering a comprehensive range of body styles and derivatives, with multiple wheelbases, roof heights and new chassis cowl versions, all-new and more capable Transit is tailored to the needs of key worldwide markets.

For Europe, a full range of Transit bodystyles and derivatives, offering front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, will be powered by the latest 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel.

In North America, customers can choose from several engines, including the proven 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 or a powerful diesel option; each features rear-wheel drive and at least 25 percent better fuel economy than a comparable E-Series. Multiple roof heights and wheelbases will be available. North American Transit vans will be manufactured in Kansas City, alongside the Ford F-150.

The stylish all-new Ford Transit Connect will deliver new standards for the sub-one-tonne segment for load-carrying ability, cost of ownership and dependability.

Available in a choice of short and long wheelbase versions, the new Transit Connect will offer European and North American customers the most flexible and functional loadbox in the segment, with a host of innovative features to enhance everyday productivity.

Transit Connect features the latest low-CO₂ powertrain technologies to deliver best-in-class fuel economy in all of its target markets. In Europe, the engine line-up will include highly-efficient downsized diesel and petrol engines, while the U.S. market will benefit from a tailored range of gasoline powertrains.

The new model has a stylish cockpit with car-like design and craftsmanship, and offers the latest Ford interior technologies and driver assistance features.

The Ford Transit brand has established a legendary reputation for toughness and dependability, and the new global Transit products have been engineered to extend that tradition. Both the all-new Transit and all-new Transit Connect have been subjected to Ford's ultra-stringent commercial vehicle testing and durability standards, covering millions of miles of arduous testing in laboratories, at proving grounds and on customer fleets.

"Our new global Ford Transit products will be totally fit for purpose," said Samardzich. "These are the strongest, most capable and most efficient commercial vans we have ever built - this is the start of a new chapter in the Transit success story."

In Europe, deliveries of the all-new Transit and Transit Connect are due to start by the end of 2013.

In North America, the all-new Transit and Transit Connect are scheduled to go on sale by the fourth quarter of 2013.

The two new global models join the Transit Custom in Ford's renewed commercial vehicle line-up for Europe. Targeting the one-tonne market, the all-new Transit Custom is now on sale across European markets. It will not be introduced in North America but will be launched in other selected other global markets later.