Jaguar XJ revealed

The waiting is finally over… Jaguar has finally pulled the wraps from its all-new XJ.

These first official pictures reveal the luxury saloon in all its detail –from its distinctive nose, to that incredible tail…

Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, Jaguar promises that the XJ brings a daring new spirit to its line up - with a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and advanced engineering.

Available to order now, prices for the all aluminium machine start at £52,500 - for the standard wheelbase 3.0-litre V6 diesel luxury.

Building on the success of the new XK and XF models, the introduction of the all-new XJ represents a key moment for the Coventry firm.

Positioned as the company's four-door flagship, it marks a mid-way point in the historic firm's reinvention – paving the way for new growth and new competition.

Representing a huge step forward over all that the XJ has offered before, detailing includes a panoramic glass roof as well as dramatic rear lights that arch up and over the boot lid.

Standard- and long-wheelbase models are available from launch, while inside the cabin promises to set new standards for elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provide an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully-crafted leather and veneer surfaces.

Three specification levels are to be offered, including Luxury, Premium Luxury and Portfolio – to allow the customer to tailor the car to suit their tastes.

Beyond this are the Supercharged and the top-of-the-range Supersport, the latter providing the ultimate expression of performance and luxury, with a specification that includes a leather roof-lining, leather seats and special veneers.

All of Jaguar's acclaimed new petrol and diesel engines will be available in the XJ.

Entry level cars will offer a 3.0-litre V6 diesel, and there are two petrol power plants to choose between, including a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 and 5.0-litre supercharged V8. Flagship models offer a 470 horsepower version of the supercharged engine.

Fuel economy and emissions are also outstanding, with the diesel-powered XJ returning combined economy figures of 40.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 184g/km.

Proven Jaguar dynamic technologies are taken to new levels in the all-new XJ. Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control and quick-ratio power steering deliver the blend of responsive, dynamic handling and refined, supple ride expected from a Jaguar.

Inside the car, advanced new technologies have allowed Jaguar's designers to create an environment more akin to a state-of-the-art living space than a simple car cabin. Stunning, 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual Instruments complement an innovative, Dual-View technology 8-inch Touch-screen that can project DVD movies or television programmes to the passenger while the driver views vehicle functions or follows satellite navigation.

Premium surround sound options include the top-of-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, which is comparable in audio quality to the best in-home entertainment. Advanced infotainment features also include hard drive-based audio and navigation systems, and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub.

Aston Martin Cygnet

From supercars to a supermini! These are the amazing pictures that will have car fans shaking their heads in disbelief. But it really is true...

Aston Martin is building a model that's even smaller than a Ford Fiesta!

Based on the Toyota iQ, the Cygnet is the result of a joint venture with the Japanese giant. Details are scarce at the moment, but the tiniest Aston Martin ever is expected to share the same three-cylinder petrol engine as the iQ, along with its innovative three- plus-one seating arrangement.

It will also boast a Euro NCAP five-star crash safety rating. And with a low-emission, highly economical engine, the Cygnet will help Aston to meet increasingly stringent environmental targets too.
As you can see, the firm has managed to distill all of the design cues from its supercar range into a package measuring only three metres long.

Inside, expect the same attention to detail as you'd get on the DBS, with a leather-clad cabin featuring the very best materials, along with an ECU (Emotion Control Unit) that plugs into the centre console, replacing a traditional key.

However, not just anyone will be able to buy a Cygnet. In order to snap up one of the must-have urban machines, you have to already own an Aston Martin, as the firm is only making them available to existing customers. The company has identified that around 30 per cent of owners have small cars such as the MINI or Smart ForTwo in their garages, using them for short journeys to and from city-based offices. Now Aston is giving them the chance to buy their very own 'luxury commuter'.

Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin chief executive, explained more about the Cygnet: "Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this bold step to embark on this special project – made possible with the support of an organisation of Toyota's stature and capability and the intelligent design and perfect city car package of the iQ.

Peugeot unwraps its Audi TT ‘teaser’

Here's proof that Audi's TT has some serious competition! Following our spy shots in Issue 972, these are the first official pictures of Peugeot's new coupé – the 308 RC Z. 

While the company has kept some details under wraps until the global unveiling at September's Frankfurt Motor Show, it's still clear from the teaser shots that the production car is virtually identical to the concept that debuted at the German expo two years ago. The twin roof bubbles, integrated into the rear window, and head-turning proportions remain intact. So does the aluminium-effect A-pillar, which runs over the doors and down to the rear deck. 

The striking waistline, which steps up at the edge of the doors, is carried over, too. At the back, the look is finished off with neatly detailed tail-lights. In fact, the only big changes are smaller wing mirrors and the addition of a pair of washer jets for the bold headlamps. 

Power for the flagship version will come from the MINI Cooper JCW's 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol unit. Producing 218bhp, it should propel the car from 0-60mph in less than seven seconds and hit a top speed of around 145mph. However, there will be plenty of other engine choices, including a 150bhp 1.6 petrol turbo and a new, powerful 163bhp 2.0-litre HDi, shared with the revised 407 Coupé. 

Inside, the two-seater cabin is set to be very similar to that of the 308 CC. However, there will be more leather and piano-black trim, plus chrome highlights and unique instruments.

The 308 RC Z is due to reach showrooms in spring 2010, with prices starting at less than £20,000

MINI Cooper MkI (2001)

Few brands, if any, command the loyalty and enthusiasm that the Mini generates in its followers, so relaunching the classic model was a massive undertaking. The job of coming up with a Mini for the 21st century wasn't taken
lightly, and new owner BMW considered a host of designs for its long-awaited comeback – from clever space-saving models in the spirit of the original to retro reworkings of the existing vehicle.

Take one look at the end product and it's clear which approach the firm preferred – and the resulting sales hit shows it got things right. With cute looks, a unique cabin, sharp dynamics and a premium price tag, the MINI was a car without a rival – and an instant success.

The savvy marketing campaign provided a huge list of cosmetic extras which were inspired by classic Mini features. This gave buyers the chance to make a real individual statement by choosing everything from Union Flag roof decals to bigger wheels and upgraded interior trim, just to give their car a personal touch. This approach has been copied by rival firms ever since, but the MINI got there first.

With its zippy engines, powerful Cooper and supercharged Cooper S models, as well as an economical diesel variant, there was a MINI for every occasion – but the newcomer wasn't without compromise. Not only did it look like its famous predecessor, it shared the cosy rear seats and tiny boot.

Innovative aftermarket add-ons such as a clever and affordable all-inclusive servicing package set the MINI apart from its peers and helped to establish the brand's now market-leading residual values.

That explains why even the cheapest, earliest examples will still set you back £3,500 today.

The rebirth wasn't universally popular with diehard Mini fans, but without the incredible showroom success of the 2001 car, models such as the later JCW, Clubman and Cabriolet wouldn't even exist. The Oxford-built hatchback was also responsible for introducing a whole new generation of buyers to the Mini legend, which explains why this machine is the highest-ranked modern car in our rundown.

The greatest ever MINI?

It's 50 not out for Mini! The famous British brand celebrates its golden anniversary this year, and what better way to commemorate the occasion than with a slice of Mini mayhem?

To mark the firm's big year, we've gathered a glittering collection of cars from the past and present. From the incredible rally cars of the Sixties to the latest Clubman and John Cooper Works World Championship 50, they're all here, but which of these golden wonders is our favourite?

Our countdown from 12 to one, reveals all…

 

Jaguar XJ revealed;

The waiting is finally over… Jaguar has finally pulled the wraps from its all-new XJ.

These first official pictures reveal the luxury saloon in all its detail –from its distinctive nose, to that incredible tail…

Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, Jaguar promises that the XJ brings a daring new spirit to its line up - with a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and advanced engineering.

Available to order now, prices for the all aluminium machine start at £52,500 - for the standard wheelbase 3.0-litre V6 diesel luxury.

Building on the success of the new XK and XF models, the introduction of the all-new XJ represents a key moment for the Coventry firm.

Positioned as the company's four-door flagship, it marks a mid-way point in the historic firm's reinvention – paving the way for new growth and new competition.

Representing a huge step forward over all that the XJ has offered before, detailing includes a panoramic glass roof as well as dramatic rear lights that arch up and over the boot lid.

Standard- and long-wheelbase models are available from launch, while inside the cabin promises to set new standards for elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provide an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully-crafted leather and veneer surfaces.

Three specification levels are to be offered, including Luxury, Premium Luxury and Portfolio – to allow the customer to tailor the car to suit their tastes.

Beyond this are the Supercharged and the top-of-the-range Supersport, the latter providing the ultimate expression of performance and luxury, with a specification that includes a leather roof-lining, leather seats and special veneers.

All of Jaguar's acclaimed new petrol and diesel engines will be available in the XJ.

Entry level cars will offer a 3.0-litre V6 diesel, and there are two petrol power plants to choose between, including a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 and 5.0-litre supercharged V8. Flagship models offer a 470 horsepower version of the supercharged engine.

Fuel economy and emissions are also outstanding, with the diesel-powered XJ returning combined economy figures of 40.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 184g/km.

Proven Jaguar dynamic technologies are taken to new levels in the all-new XJ. Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control and quick-ratio power steering deliver the blend of responsive, dynamic handling and refined, supple ride expected from a Jaguar.

Inside the car, advanced new technologies have allowed Jaguar's designers to create an environment more akin to a state-of-the-art living space than a simple car cabin. Stunning, 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual Instruments complement an innovative, Dual-View technology 8-inch Touch-screen that can project DVD movies or television programmes to the passenger while the driver views vehicle functions or follows satellite navigation.

Premium surround sound options include the top-of-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, which is comparable in audio quality to the best in-home entertainment. Advanced infotainment features also include hard drive-based audio and navigation systems, and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub.

Aston Martin One-77

The covers have finally been pulled away from the Aston Martin One-77! The £1.2m supercar made its world debut at the Concorso d'Eleganza on the shores of Lake Como, Italy, in final complete form, with a full interior and running gear.

Just like the prototype that appeared at the Geneva Motor Show, the final car evolves the classic Aston design themes of a long bonnet, short tail and trademark grille and adds dramatic slashes in the front bumper along with a racing-style diffuser at the rear.

Inside, the cabin also draws on the current range of models, but is curvier and features lots of leather mixed with exposed parts of the chassis – just check out the carbonfibre on the inside of the doors. Under the bonnet lies a 7.3-litre V12 engine, which produces 700hp and weighs 25 per cent less than the 6.0-litre unit. With the whole car weighing in at around 1,500kg, the One-77 is predicted to have a top speed in excess of 200mph, with a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds. All 77 models have already been sold. 

Incidentially, the stunning machine scooped the top prize at the Concorso d'Eleganza event, winning the Design Award for Concept Cars and Prototypes. Aston Martin chief executive, Dr Ulrich Bez said: "Embodying everything Aston Martin stands for; the One-77 has proven itself as the most desirable automotive art form at its premiere today. We have achieved a new level of design and craftsmanship which has been clearly recognised by the public here in the homeland of design at Villa d'Este."

Jaguar XKR Convertible

Styling/image
Sleek, gorgeous, unmistakable… the XKR is arguably the best-looking model in its class. And as a supercharged convertible, it's surely unbeatable as a summertime long-distance cruiser.

Interior/practicality
Fling your handbag or briefcase on the back seat, because you're unlikely to find a person that fits into the tiny space. That aside, the cabin is virtually faultless. The materials are superb, the seating position comfortable on long journeys and Jaguar reckons there's even room for two sets of golf clubs in the boot.

Engine/performance
With 503bhp of 5.0-litre supercharged V8 under the bonnet, you have to keep an eye on the speedo, as the XKR is deceptively quiet and devastatingly quick. It covers 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds and goes on to an electronically limited 155mph. Torque is a mighty 625Nm, while a six-speed electroinc auto transmission with Jaguar Sequential Shift and JaguarDrive gear selector are standard.

Driving experience
The engine sounds amazing whether the roof is up or down, due to all the work that has gone on under the skin to make sure occupants can enjoy the exhaust note in all weathers. The forgiving suspension is better than ever, and every drive is a pleasure. Acceleration can take you by surprise as responses are immediate, while the transmission shifts are instant and smooth.

Ownership costs
Well, you can't have everything. As with most supercars, fuel returns are pretty dismal at 23mpg on the combined cycle, falling to less than 15mpg in town.  The screen price is £78,400 – nearly £10k more than a 180mph Porsche 911 3.6 Cabrio. On the other hand, a Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss is £591,000…

Safety/environment
Pedestrian Contact Sensing automatically deploys the bonnet to minimise injury. There's also a rollover protection system, adaptive restraint technology, emergency brake assist, plus sensors and alarms all over the place. Dynamic stability control, electronic brakeforce distributon and active differential control are also included. With emissions of 202g/km, the XKR is eligible for band M, which is £405 a year.

Bentley Continental GT Speed

'Proles drive in Rolls,' goes the adage, 'and gents drive in Bents.' When you want the world to know you've made it, few cars say it more definitively than this. What's more, the 6.0-litre, 600bhp Continental GT Speed variant is the more powerful production model Bentley's ever made.
 
Interior/practicality
As one would expect from a vehicle carrying a £141,300 price tag,  the cabin is the automotive equivalent of a six-star hotel. It's the byword for luxury although there are a few jarring elements such as the air vents and clock. However, these are arguably traditional features which add to the character.  Massive, supremely comfortable front seats and a 370-litre boot capacity add to the appeal.
 
Engine/performance
It seems a pity that the massive potential of the W12 powerplant is unlikely to be exploited to its full potential in the UK. However as the name suggests this is a car bred for long-distance Continental touring, and the urge to let rip on the German autobahn, which has no upper speed limit, is irresistible.  Max speed is 202mph and 0-60mph for the 2,800kg GT takes an astonishing 4.3 seconds.
 
Ownership costs
Maintaining such a vehicle isn't going to come cheap, and depreciation for such luxurious cars is usually dire. However, the GT holds on to a healthy 58 per cent of its new value after three years, so the range-topping Speed is likely to follow suit.  There's no escaping the running costs, however – the best you can expect is 24.3mpg on the extra-urban cycle and only 11.2mpg in town. Just as well there's a 90-litre tank.
 
Safety/environment
The GT Speed has not been tested by Euro NCAP. There are, however, plenty of airbags on board as well as every driver aid you might think of. Emissions are 396g/km… welcome to Band M and a £405 VED bill. The Crewe firm is keen to improve its green record though and, at the Geneva show in March, it announced the biofuel W12-powered Continental Supersports, capable of 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds. It's due later this year.

Nissan's MX-5 beater starts to take shape

Watch out MX-5 – Nissan is getting ready to give the 370Z a baby brother! Auto Express has learned that the Japanese manufacturer is planning a new small sports car to rival the popular Mazda roadster.

The open-top, rear-wheel-drive two-seater would mix stunning looks with storming straight-line performance. It would also take the fight to other forthcoming compact sports cars, such as the Honda CR-Z hybrid and Toyota's next MR2 (which we revealed in Issue 1,055).

Styling cues are set to be taken from the 370Z and Nissan's Urge concept, which was seen at the Detroit Motor Show back in 2006. And there is certainly a gap in the range for the new model. The brand hasn't had a presence in this sector of the market since production of the legendary 200SX ceased in 1998.

The sports car would get a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine delivering in the region of 200bhp. That would propel it from 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 140mph, while promising low emissions and impressive fuel economy of around 35mpg.

According to our sources, the car has been held back because of the global financial slump. But as experts predict a recovery by the end of this year, the roadster could be in showrooms by 2011.

Alfa Romeo MiTo 1.6 JTDm

The Alfa MiTo is a hit with a petrol engine – so now it's time to see what the diesels can do. This week, we've driven the flagship 1.6-litre oil-burner.

It produces 120bhp and 320Nm, which is 10bhp and 80Nm more than the MINI Cooper D. Although the unit is noisy, it offers a satisfying burst of acceleration – even from low speeds. And there's good news at the pumps, too, with a claimed 58.9mpg.

Standard kit includes the firm's three-stage DNA system, which allows you to choose between Dynamic, Normal and All-weather modes. The last of these adjusts the traction control to deal with slippery surfaces – something we had the chancy to try out on our snowy test route – and it proved extremely effective.

Normal is for urban driving, while Dynamic mode gives the steering more weight, prevents the traction control from cutting in too early and sharpens

throttle response – making it feel much quicker than 0-60mph in 9.9 seconds would suggest. But it's the price that really sets it apart. The range starts at £10,745, undercutting the cheapest MINI by more than £1,500, and even base-spec Turismo models have alloys, air-con and an MP3 stereo.

Rival: BMW 1-Series
THE entry-level BMW offers rear-wheel-drive thrills, and EfficientDynamics maximises economy. But it's not as desirable and much more expensive.

Aston takes covers off new Rapide

 

Here it is – the supercoupé that's set to take on Bentley in the Battle of Britain! This first official picture shows Aston Martin's new four-door model, the Rapide.

With its familiar sleek Aston silhouette, strong shoulder lines and 'swan wing' doors that rise upwards and outwards, the Rapide will be one of the
most striking entrants into the emerging four-door supercoupé market, where it will take on Bentley's Flying Spur and Porsche's Panamera.

Our spy shots (here) revealed that a full-length glass roof will also be offered. And the car is set to have performance to match its looks. Powered by the 470bhp 6.0-litre V12 engine from the DB9, the Rapide will use a super-responsive Touchtronic gearbox to drive the rear wheels, helping it to complete the 0-60mph sprint in under five seconds.

Made in a new purpose-built Magna Steyr factory in Austria, the car will use an extended version of the DB9's chassis and promises to boast class-leading driving dynamics. We previously brought you spy shots of the car testing undisguised in December 2008 here.

The hotly anticipated four-seater is set to make its debut later this year, before deliveries begin in 2010, with list prices starting at more than £100,000.

Alfa Romeo MiTo

There's been a surge of models into this class recently, such as the BMW 1-Series, although the Fiat Grande Punto and Renault Clio are closer on price.  However, the Alfa is cool, offering curvy lines and a funky profile. The Italian brand's appeal remains strong, too – but as strong as the MINI's? We'll have to wait and see.
 
Interior/practicality
After shaping the outside like a condensed 8C Competizione, the designers haven't quite let rip in the cabin. It's a little sombre and the back is decidedly short on space. But buyers aren't looking for a practical car -  they want a sporty little head-turner, and that's what Alfa has delivered.
 
Engine/performance
Under the platform, shared with the Grande Punto, the MiTo has less bodyroll and an improved ride due to its sharper suspension. And with this car, Alfa has launched the DNA system which enables drivers to switch between modes – Dynamic, Normal and All weather – to suit conditions.  And with the 120bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine on board, the MiTo is slightly more powerful and torquey than its petrol counterpart, while returning 58.9mpg on the combined cycle. Most importantly, it's excellent fun.
 
Ownership costs
Residual values are not quite as strong as the MINI's. The MiTo can't compete with the British-built car's service fees, either. Yet in its favour, the oil-burner costs £14,995 which is keen compared with rivals, and those fuel returns beat its arch-rival's 52mpg combined figure. Insurance is in group six, and VED is Band D.
 
Safety/environment
A five-star adult protection Euro NCAP rating can't be sniffed at. Driver, passenger and front side airbags are all standard. Pushing out 126g/km of CO2, the MiTo doesn't do as well as the MINI's 104g/km on emissions, though.
 
Model variants and specifications
Alfa MiTo 1.6 JTDm Lusso £14,045
Alfa MiTo 1.6 JTDm Veloce £14,995

Aston Martin Cygnet

From supercars to a supermini! These are the amazing pictures that will have car fans shaking their heads in disbelief. But it really is true...

Aston Martin is building a model that's even smaller than a Ford Fiesta!

Based on the Toyota iQ, the Cygnet is the result of a joint venture with the Japanese giant. Details are scarce at the moment, but the tiniest Aston Martin ever is expected to share the same three-cylinder petrol engine as the iQ, along with its innovative three- plus-one seating arrangement.

It will also boast a Euro NCAP five-star crash safety rating. And with a low-emission, highly economical engine, the Cygnet will help Aston to meet increasingly stringent environmental targets too.
As you can see, the firm has managed to distill all of the design cues from its supercar range into a package measuring only three metres long.

Inside, expect the same attention to detail as you'd get on the DBS, with a leather-clad cabin featuring the very best materials, along with an ECU (Emotion Control Unit) that plugs into the centre console, replacing a traditional key.

However, not just anyone will be able to buy a Cygnet. In order to snap up one of the must-have urban machines, you have to already own an Aston Martin, as the firm is only making them available to existing customers. The company has identified that around 30 per cent of owners have small cars such as the MINI or Smart ForTwo in their garages, using them for short journeys to and from city-based offices. Now Aston is giving them the chance to buy their very own 'luxury commuter'.

Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin chief executive, explained more about the Cygnet: "Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this bold step to embark on this special project – made possible with the support of an organisation of Toyota's stature and capability and the intelligent design and perfect city car package of the iQ.

New Focus on horizon

Meet the most desirable family car ever! This striking machine is about to rewrite the hatchback rulebook, with a stunning combination of head-turning looks, driver appeal and up-to-the-minute technology. Say hello to Ford's next-generation Focus.

Set to go on sale in 2010, the third generation of the family car will take the company's brand values to the next level. It gets a dramatic new look that's backed up by a range of hi-tech small- capacity turbocharged engines.

Ford gave the strongest hint of how its upcoming models will look when it revealed the Iosis Max at the Geneva Motor Show last month (see Issue 1,053). And it's from this car that the new Focus takes much of its styling inspiration.

The hatch gets a sleek new front end, with a large lower grille and elongated headlights. Bold lines run from the edges of the grille to the A-pillars.

At the rear, there are further nods to the Iosis MAX, with a high tail, angular C-pillars and eye-catching lights. Chunky wheelarches and short
overhangs finish the look and give the newcomer a muscular stance. According to insiders, a panoramic glass roof will also be available. Inside, expect a toned-down version of the concept's striking cabin, with a new centre console boasting an improved version of Ford's Human Machine Interface control system. Options will include a reversing camera.

Under the skin is a fresh development of the current car's chassis, so it's unlikely the new model will grow much in size. Emphasis will be put on ride and refinement, without sacrificing the sharp steering and driver appeal for which the Focus has become famous.

New turbocharged EcoBoost engines dominate the line-up. Entry-level models will come with a 1.0-litre four-cylinder turbo unit offering 89bhp or 108bhp, but most variants will get a new 1.6-litre turbo, available with 148bhp or 178bhp outputs.

These units will combine storming pace with low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to give buyers the best of both worlds. There is also a new range of diesels in the shape of a 1.6 TDCi, delivering up to 128bhp, and a flagship 2.0-litre with 168bhp or 197bhp.

All engines are mated to manual boxes as standard, but Ford will also offer its Powershift twin-clutch transmission. Start-stop technology is set to be rolled out across the range, too.

We reported in Issue 1,054 that Ford bosses were debating when to launch the car. Sources have revealed that it looks as though the Focus and C-MAX compact MPV will be launched simultaneously in 2010.

The models have been developed alongside each other and could be global cars – ie sold in all Ford markets across the world. They would follow in the footsteps of the latest Fiesta, which goes on sale in China later this year, and in the US in 2010.

The Focus will be built at Ford's plant in Saarlouis, Germany, while the C-MAX, which is to appear as a seven-seater for the first time, will be assembled at Valencia in Spain.

Grande Punto 1.4 T-jet vs Swift 1.6 Sport

If you want to increase power fast, bolting on a turbo is a quick fix. So in theory it should be ideal to use in a small hot hatch. But can the 1.4 T-Jet powerplant fitted
to Fiat's Grand Punto Sporting match the thrills provided by the normally aspirated 1.6-litre unit in the Suzuki Swift Sport?

Look at the raw figures, and there's virtually nothing in it. With 123bhp at its disposal, the Japanese supermini has 3bhp more than its Italian rival. However, as with the other pairings here, the turbo model has a torque advantage, with the Grande Punto delivering 206Nm to the Suzuki's 148Nm. At the test track, the Suzuki sprinted from 0-60mph in only 8.5 seconds – that's three-tenths faster than its rival.

But this was turned on its head during our in-gear assessments, as the torquey Fiat showed the normally aspirated car a clean pair of heels in both tests. The flexible Grande Punto raced from 50-70mph in fifth gear in 7.6 seconds – an impressive 1.3 seconds faster than the Swift.

Sporty hatchbacks aren't all about pure speed, though, and the two cars deliver very different driving experiences. While the laid-back Fiat pulls strongly from low down, you need to use all of the available revs in the Suzuki. Its frenetic character is in stark contrast to the more refined Italian model.

The Grande Punto repays you with lower emissions and superior combined fuel consumption. It puts out 155g/km of CO2 to the Swift's 171g/km Swift, so sits in a lower tax band. Owners will pay £150 for an annual tax disc; Suzuki buyers shell out £175. The Japanese car is also more expensive for company drivers, although the gap isn't huge due to the Fiat's higher list price. It costs standard-rate business users £18 less each year than the more heavily polluting Swift.

The Fiat enjoys a similarly small advantage at the pumps, although we struggled to get near its combined economy figure of 42.8mpg. On our test it returned 32.4mpg, which was just enough to beat the 31.7mpg Swift Sport. However, the Suzuki comes up trumps on insurance. Its annual premium undercuts its rival's by a useful £78. The purchase price provides the biggest dent in the wallet, though, and this is where the Suzuki makes even more sense.

At £11,990, it's £765 cheaper than the Fiat. It doesn't skimp on kit, either, with climate control – instead of its rival's air-con – fitted as standard. Yet while you save on the Swift, it's not as spacious. The Suzuki is smaller than the Punto, with less rear legroom and a much tinier boot. A firm ride and busy engine also make it ill-suited to long trips; the softer and more refined Fiat is a capable motorway cruiser.

Crucially, though, the Swift is more engaging. Its steering provides greater weight and precision, while the stiff suspension serves up sharper responses and tighter body control than the Grande Punto.

The two engines highlight this difference in character. Nothing beats the thrill of driving a car with a highly tuned petrol engine, and the rev-hungry Suzuki can even make a trip to the shops exciting – a priceless quality in a small hot hatch.

The Fiat is a more talented all-rounder, with its relaxed and linear power delivery. Yet it's not as much fun, and is more expensive and thirstier than the claimed figures suggest.

If you want space and pace the Fiat wins, but for our money the Sukuki is the better junior hot hatch. The normally aspirated car wins this clash.

Ford Capri coming at last

The Capri is back – as a hatch! These are the best pictures yet of the compact family car that looks set to be the must-have model of 2010 – it's a new three- door version of the Ford Focus.

Just as Volkswagen has done with the stunning Scirocco, Ford is seeking to reinvent one of its most famous sports cars. And it's this dramatic evolution of the next Focus that will do it.

Boasting a stylish but practical body, it will target the Scirocco and the Renault Mégane Coupé, providing a glamorous sister car to the standard five-door hatch – revealed in Issue 1,057. Appealing to young, style-conscious buyers, the new Coupé should be a big hit.

As you can see from our exclusive pictures, it takes some inspiration from the Iosis Max concept, revealed at March's Geneva Motor Show.

That car debuted the new family 'face' of not only the new Focus, but the next-generation C-MAX, too. However, the three-door model evolves this with sleeker, sportier LED headlights and a deeper, more aggressive set of lower air intakes.

The key design cues, though, are the rakish windscreen, low roofline and high waistline, which meet to give a heavily chopped appearance at the back. It's reminiscent of the Scirocco, but is arguably more daring and head-turning. A neat diffuser-style lower bumper, roof spoiler and gorgeous LED tail-lights complete the rear. Add in short overhangs and large alloy wheels, and the model looks every inch the
chic compact sports car.

And because that roofline doesn't slope down too steeply, the Coupé will be practical, too, with plenty of headroom for rear passengers and a decent sized boot. Options such as a panoramic glass roof, to further increase the feeling of light and space inside, are anticipated.

In the front, a similar cabin to the five-door is expected, with a new centre console offering an improved version of Ford's Human Machine Interface system. The finish will have a premium feel, with options including a reversing camera.

To match its storming looks, the car will be fitted with a class-leading chassis. And this promises even more agility and grip than the five-door, without sacrificing ride comfort or refinement.

There'll be even more reason to smile when buyers see the engine range. New turbocharged EcoBoost powerplants will be available, with most cars getting a 1.6-litre petrol, producing 148bhp or 178bhp.

A new 1.6 TDCi diesel will also debut, giving up to 128bhp, alongside a flagship 2.0-litre with 168bhp or 197bhp. All these units will combine pace with superb fuel economy and low CO2 emissions. And helping the Focus Coupé to be even more efficient will be the option of a Powershift twin-clutch gearbox. This will be offered in addition to a standard-fit manual transmission. Stop-start technology is also expected to be rolled out across the line-up.

Of course, there will be a high-performance range-topper, but it's unlikely to be powered by the much-loved 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine from the Focus ST and RS. This is deemed too thirsty, and will be replaced by a 2.0-litre, 200bhp EcoBoost four-cylinder turbo.

The new Focus range debuts alongside the C-MAX MPV at a major motor show next year.

Jaguar’s new C-Type on the prowl

It's the sports car that every Jaguar fan has been desperate to see! This is the Big Cat's all-new rival for Porsche's Boxster – a compact two-seat roadster that promises performance and style at an affordable price.

Evoking memories of the legendary C-Type, it will lead a new wave of driver-focused machines, taking the firm into uncharted – but potentially very successful – territory. The compact sports market is huge and, as well as the Boxster, rivals include the Audi TT, BMW Z4 (tested on Page 50), Nissan 370Z and Mercedes SLK: Jaguar needs a slice of the action.

Drawing on the XK range's strong following, the newcomer will feature head-turning styling and a thrilling rear-drive chassis. With a sub-£40,000 price tag, it's a real recipe for success.

Ratan Tata, boss of Indian giant Tata Motors, which owns Jaguar-Land Rover, has made no secret of his desire for Jaguar to expand its sports car line-up – and this could be vital to securing the firm's future. Thanks to insider information, we can give you the best view yet of how the machine could look.

It's clear that the new model evolves cues from the XF such as the bold mesh grille, sharpened LED headlights and bonnet power bulge, making them more aggressive and sporty. Short overhangs, a steeply raked windscreen and muscular rear haunches are further highlights. The look is completed by a pert rear with slim tail-lights, an XF-style chrome strip and integrated chrome exhausts. In short, the vehicle takes the traditional British roadster shape and makes it completely modern.

As with the XK, the new sports car would use an aluminium monocoque with extruded body panels to maximise weight-saving and structural stiffness. A strict two-seater, it would feature an electrically operated folding canvas roof, to be stowed behind the occupants' heads.

Under the bonnet there will be a wide range of engines all taken from the XF, with an entry-level 235bhp 3.0-litre V6 version and a 380bhp 5.0 V8 flagship. There's also scope to offer the XF's latest 3.0-litre twin-turbo diesel, which boasts 272bhp and the prospect of 40mpg. All models will feature Jaguar's excellent six-speed automatic gearbox, complete with steering wheel-mounted paddles.

With such a lightweight chassis, even the entry-level 3.0-litre V6 will be enormously fast, boasting a 0-60mph time of around seven seconds. The 5.0-litre V8 version could slash two seconds off that sprint and accelerate on to 155mph.

As the XF has shown, Jag's talented engineers can produce a saloon that corners like a sportster but offers a cosseting ride. So making a purer driver-pleasing roadster should be a task they will relish. But while the car will be agile, responsive and sporty to drive, it also promises to be extremely comfortable.

Of course, the firm is not without its problems: together with Tata, it is currently trying to secure financial assistance from the UK Government. And that means the new XJ saloon plus a forthcoming XF estate, as well as a convertible version of that car, are its priorities for now.

This Boxster rival, along with a replacement for the legendary E-Type and an Audi R8-style supercar, are on the drawing board, though, and would arrive in 2012 at the earliest.

Aston Martin Cygnet

From supercars to a supermini! These are the amazing pictures that will have car fans shaking their heads in disbelief. But it really is true...

Aston Martin is building a model that's even smaller than a Ford Fiesta!

Based on the Toyota iQ, the Cygnet is the result of a joint venture with the Japanese giant. Details are scarce at the moment, but the tiniest Aston Martin ever is expected to share the same three-cylinder petrol engine as the iQ, along with its innovative three- plus-one seating arrangement.

It will also boast a Euro NCAP five-star crash safety rating. And with a low-emission, highly economical engine, the Cygnet will help Aston to meet increasingly stringent environmental targets too.
As you can see, the firm has managed to distill all of the design cues from its supercar range into a package measuring only three metres long.

Inside, expect the same attention to detail as you'd get on the DBS, with a leather-clad cabin featuring the very best materials, along with an ECU (Emotion Control Unit) that plugs into the centre console, replacing a traditional key.

However, not just anyone will be able to buy a Cygnet. In order to snap up one of the must-have urban machines, you have to already own an Aston Martin, as the firm is only making them available to existing customers. The company has identified that around 30 per cent of owners have small cars such as the MINI or Smart ForTwo in their garages, using them for short journeys to and from city-based offices. Now Aston is giving them the chance to buy their very own 'luxury commuter'.

Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin chief executive, explained more about the Cygnet: "Now is the right time for Aston Martin to take this bold step to embark on this special project – made possible with the support of an organisation of Toyota's stature and capability and the intelligent design and perfect city car package of the iQ.

Official: Citroen C3

The all-new Citroen C3 is shaping up to be a glass act! These are the first official images of Citroen's brand-new contender in the supermini class, and as with all Citroens nowadays style is at the top of the agenda.

Taking pride of place on the outside is an optional 'Zenith' windscreen, which stretches dramatically over the driver's head, offering a panoramic field of vision and creating an airy and light ambience in the cabin. A progressive tint on this huge slab of glass, provides occupants with optimum UV protection, too.

Expensive-feeling materials and a dashboard shared with the more upmarket DS3 Concept take the interior to a new level in terms of perceived quality. Improved sound insulation and an integrated air freshener mean the new C3 is just as suited to tackling longer jounrneys as it is around town.

From launch an entry-level HDi 90 version will be available emitting just 99g/km of CO2 - Citroen's first sub-100g/km and therefore tax exempt road car. And from 2011 Citroen is going even further. Stop & Start technology will see a diesel version of the C3 emitting around 90g/km, while a next-generation three-cylinder petrol unit will be offered with less than 100g/km.

Pricing is yet to be announced, but the newcomer is sheduled to arrive in the UK in early 2010 when it will go head to head with the talented Ford Fiesta.