All-New Isuzu D-Max is Smarter, Stronger and Safer

by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog

• All-New Isuzu D-Max available in four new trim levels: Utility, DL20, DL40 & V-Cross.
• Smarter: Assertive exterior design, premium yet practical interior and smart new audio systems.
• Stronger: Stronger chassis, faster engaging shift-on-the-fly 4WD system and rear diff-lock is now standard on All-Purpose and Adventure models.
• Safer: Comprehensive Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) package standard on all variants
• True to its workhorse pedigree, the All-New Isuzu D-Max is still capable of towing up to 3.5t and carrying a payload of over a tonne.

The All-New Isuzu D-Max combines smart new styling and improved off-road performance with impressive safety technology. 

Not only does it deliver the capability and durability you’d expect from an Isuzu pick-up truck, this tough workhorse now adds superior levels of comfort and refinement.

The D-Max appeals to a wide variety of drivers, from fleet operators to families, and the model range is structured into three segments: Business, All-Purpose and Adventure.  A new line-up of trucks sit within each range to suit every customer’s requirements.

The Business range features the Utility trim and this base specification workhorse is offered in a choice of 4×2 or 4×4 and in three different cab types: single, extended and double cab. Developed with work in mind, the Utility features a wide range of practical and safety features to ensure drivers are as productive, safe and comfortable as possible.

The All-New Isuzu D-Max has an incredible amount of additional equipment on all variants so the Utility model is anything but basic. Comfort and convenience are assured in this versatile pick-up thanks to automatic headlights with high beam assist, automatic windscreen wipers, speed-sensitive power steering, DAB radio and a stop & start system.

Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) are now standard on all models. Autonomous Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent Speed Limiter and Lane Departure Warning & Prevention are fitted on every model and, for the first time in the pick-up segment, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitor and Emergency Lane Keeping are fitted on all double cabs.

Utility models are ideally suited to working environments with features like an easily-cleanable vinyl flooring and durable steel wheels, while the bumpers, door mirrors and door handles are made from a hard-wearing black plastic.

The All-Purpose range consists of the DL20 and DL40, with ‘DL’ signifying that the rear diff-lock becomes a standard feature and the ‘20’ and ‘40’ demonstrating the model hierarchy.  All-Purpose models are also available with an automatic transmission, which come with the additional ADAS functionality of Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist.

The DL20 features heated front seats, rear parking sensors, front fog lights and a front centre armrest for increased comfort and practicality, while body-coloured front and rear bumpers, silver door handles, a medium grey radiator grille and 18” alloy wheels provide a more premium appearance.

DL40 adds a variety of sophisticated enhancements like distinctive Bi-LED headlights, LED front fog lights, daytime running lights and rear lights, a chrome radiator grille, silver side steps and two-tone 18” alloy wheels. DL40 models also include front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.

Keyless entry, introduced from DL40, works on both the driver and passenger side and is accompanied by a push-button start system and welcome light. The interior benefits from leather upholstery, a leather steering wheel and an 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat. The 7” multifunction colour touchscreen is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and there’s also a dual-zone climate control system, which allows the driver and passenger to set different temperatures.

Topping off the new model line-up is V-Cross which sits within the Adventure range.  It features distinguishing ‘Gun Metal’ exterior styling on the radiator grille, side steps, door mirrors, door handles and 18” alloy wheels. The premium interior is practical and fuss-free: entertainment is provided by a 9” multifunction colour touchscreen with a CD player and eight speakers, there is an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and automatic headlight levelling, and the smart leather interior is complemented with V-Cross branded carpet mats.

There are up to eight colours to choose from on the All-New Isuzu D-Max. Utility models are available in four colours (Splash White, Mercury Silver, Obsidian Grey and Onyx Black), DL20 models also come with the option of Spinel Red, the vibrant new Valencia Orange is offered from DL40 and the stylish Pearl White is exclusive to V-Cross models.

Priced from £20,999 CVOTR, the Stronger, Smarter and Safer All-New Isuzu D-Max combines attractive new styling, impressive safety technology and superior levels of comfort. The new model has already won the coveted 2021 Pick-Up of the Year award from 4×4 Magazine and, thanks to its even stronger chassis and intelligent new ADAS safety systems, it has become the first pick-up to achieve the maximum 5-star rating in the latest Euro NCAP tests.

The All-New Isuzu D-Max offers the same workhorse practicalities that Isuzu customers have become accustomed to, with a one-tonne payload and up to 3.5 tonnes towing capacity. Backed by Isuzu’s 125,000 mile / 5 Year warranty, the new model arrives into UK showrooms in March 2021 and customers are encouraged to register their interest now.

Citroën expands its electric range with new ë-Berlingo

by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog

• Citroën has unveiled ë-Berlingo, the brand’s new 100% electric MPV capable of up to 174 miles (WLTP).
• New Citroën ë-Berlingo is available in two lengths – ‘Medium’ & ‘XL’ – and is capable of seating up to seven people, depending on the version.
• With hugely practical and versatile interior space, ë-Berlingo is ideal for both families and business users.
• New Citroën ë-Berlingo is the latest model from the brand as it works towards providing an electrified variants across each model in the range by 2025.
• New Citroën ë-Berlingo will be available from Q4 2021.

Citroën has unveiled ë-Berlingo, the latest version of its multi-award winning MPV that was first introduced in 1996.

New ë-Berlingo features a 100kw (136hp) electric motor with up to 260Nm of torque. Connected to a 50kWh battery, ë-Berlingo can achieve up to 174 miles of range from a single charge under WLTP testing. The new model comes with three drive modes: Normal, Eco and Power, accessible via a special ë-Toggle control that allows the driver to choose the power output that best suits their needs.

To optimise range, ë-Berlingo features a regenerative braking system that is designed to recover energy during braking and deceleration. To enhance energy recovery, the driver simply activates the ‘B’ button on the central console. The battery warranty is eight years or 100,000 miles (for 70% of battery capacity).

Laurence Hansen, Citroën’s Product and Strategy Director, commented: “The electrification of Berlingo responds to two issues, offering sufficient range and making no compromises on practicality, so that our customers can enjoy their activities in all their diversity. New ë-Berlingo brings them an extra dose of serenity in their everyday lives with a seamless and silent drive, the satisfaction of preserving air quality, and a controlled motoring budget.

“These are strong expectations of this type of customer and highly strategic in this segment, as high-volume body types are particularly limited in terms of CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption.  We are proud that Berlingo, the first leisure activity vehicle, ranks among the first to offer this alternative.”

DRIVE MODES

The new model comes with three drive modes: Normal, Eco and Power, accessible through the special ë-Toggle control that allows the driver to choose the power output to suit their needs.

• Normal– 80kW/210Nm: ensures the best compromise between operating range and dynamic performance.
• Eco– 60kW/180Nm: optimises energy consumption by reducing the output of the heating and air-conditioning without shutting them off completely and by limiting engine torque and power.
• Power– 100kW/260Nm: provides enhanced driveability and vehicle performance when carrying a maximum load.

CHARGING AND CONTROLLED COSTS

New ë-Berlingo comes as standard with a 7.4kW single-phase on-board charger and, as an option, an 11kW three-phase charger. Supporting a variety of charging methods, ë-Berlingo can be charged using anything from a     three-pin plug to 100kW rapid charging. A full charge from a 7kW Wallbox will take 7.5 hours, or 5 hours using a 22kW unit using three-phase power. Supporting up to 100kW DC fast charging, an 80% charge can be completed in just 30 minutes. New ë-Berlingo ranks among the best in its segment in terms of fast-charging times.

In addition, ë-Berlingo is equipped with functionality for deferred charging, for consuming electricity in off-peak hours, and for thermal pre-conditioning, enabling motorists to set the cabin temperature when the vehicle is plugged in and thus reducing battery consumption in the first few miles of their journey. These features can be accessed via the vehicle touchscreen (on selected versions) and via the MyCitroën app.

VERSATILE AND PRACTICAL

The new model is available in ‘Medium’ or ‘XL’ variants, with Medium models measuring 4.40m long and XL variants at 4.75m long. All variants are 1.90m tall and, thanks to a specially adapted power steering system, have an agile turning circle of just 10.8m.

New Citroën ë-Berlingo has been designed with segment-leading roominess and functionality, for an easy and pleasant drive experience.

Fully aligned with the Citroën Advanced Comfort^® programme, this new model places the emphasis on spaciousness, modularity, comfort, and a bright and airy cabin, providing an enhanced experience for five or seven occupants (depending on the version).

STORAGE COMPARTMENTS

New ë-Berlingo boasts optimum storage capacity with up to 167-litres of storage space and up to 26 storage compartments within the cabin. The ingeniously designed, optional, Modutop^® offers 92-litres of practical storage space on its own – which is easily accessible from the seats in row two and via the boot through the opening rear window.

DESIGN

New ë-Berlingo is distinguishable by the use of a subtle ‘ë’ monogram on the front grille and tailgate, as well as in touches of ‘Anodised Blue’ trim on the bumpers and side Airbumps^®.

Inside, the central console is home to the ë-Toggle switch, which allows the driver to control the gearbox via the Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive and Regenerative Brake functions, together with the three driving modes: Eco, Normal and Power.

New ë-Berlingo’s 8-inch touchscreen includes an ‘Energy’ section in the menu, which provides access to energy flow information, consumption statistics and the activation of deferred charging or pre-set cabin temperature. A 10-inch high-definition digital instrument panel is also available (depending on the version), for optimal display quality and useful driving and navigation information. Drivers can configure the digital instrument panel display to suit their needs, highlighting the navigation system, energy-flow information or the driver-assistance systems.

TECHNOLOGY FOR PEACE OF MIND

New ë-Berlingo boasts up to 18 driver assistance technologies (depending on the version), including:

• Keyless entry and start
• Colour head-up display, a first in the segment
• Hill-start assist
• Reversing camera with Top Rear Vision
• Intelligent beam headlights
• Electric parking brake
• Cruise control and speed limiter
• Park Assist

For greater safety, ë-Berlingo (depending on the version) also benefits from Active Safety Brake, an active lane departure warning system, driver attention alert, distance alert, Coffee Break Alert, Grip Control^® with Hill Descent Assist, extended traffic sign recognition and recommendation, and a blind spot monitoring system.              

CONNECTED TECHNOLOGY

New Citroën ë-Berlingo is available with three connected packages for enhanced safety and comfort. These packages are an integral part of the Citroën Advanced Comfort^® programme and were developed to simplify access to connected services.

Connect Assist

For the safety of the driver and passengers, Citroën ë-Berlingo comes with Assistance & SOS. The occupants can press the ‘Assistance’ button to be put in contact with a dedicated call centre. Alternatively, the system can activate automatically in the event of an incident.

Connect Assist can be used to obtain access to vehicle data such as state of charge, range, delayed charging, thermal pre-conditioning, parking location, mileage and next service. Connection and viewing of information are possible via the My Citroën app.

Connect Nav

Citroën Connect Nav includes a three-year subscription to Connected Navigation services with real-time traffic updates. The location and prices at service stations and car parks, weather information and local searches for points of interest are also available.

Connect Play

Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto let the driver safely connect a smartphone and duplicate its screen on the vehicle’s touchscreen. Multimedia content can be accessed and compatible applications can also be controlled directly, safely and easily from the vehicle’s touchscreen.

An outstanding, user-friendly vehicle for families and business users alike, ë-Berlingo is fully equipped to support and enhance active lifestyles. New Citroën ë-Berlingo will be arriving in UK showrooms in Q4 2021.

Ford Model T An Enthusiast’s Guide 1908 to 1927 (all models and variants)

by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog

by Chas Parker with Chris Barker and Neil Tuckett

Published by Porter Press International
Publication date: Out now!

● ISBN 978-1-913089-22-1 ● RRP £30 ● Jacketed hardback
● 270mm x 210mm ● 160 pages ● Over 220 images

‘A Timeless Legacy’

 ‘I will build a car for the great multitude’ stated Henry Ford, and so he did. The Ford Model T, or the ‘Tin Lizzie’ and the ‘Flivver’ as it was also known, transformed American society, bringing mobility through car ownership to millions of middle-class Americans at a time when the horse and the railroad were the only real viable means of transport.

Using moving assembly lines and the best possible materials, between 1 October 1908 and 26 May 1927, Ford built around 16.5 million examples of this extraordinary car. By 1918, half of all cars built in America were Model Ts and by 1925 around 8,000 a day were being produced, making Henry Ford one of the world’s best-known manufacturers of automobiles.

The selection of body styles varied from two- and four-seat open and closed models – tourers, town cars, runabouts, landaulettes and cabriolets – to vans and pick-up trucks, and customers could also have colours other than black!

This guide provides an insight into the design and construction of the Model T and many of its numerous variants, and the uses to which they were put, along with details of the background to Henry Ford himself and the car.

Highlights of the book include:

• The Ford Model T story – the background of Henry Ford and his Ford Motor Company and the development of the Model T
• Anatomy of a Ford Model T – detailed insight with photographs and diagrams
• The engineer’s view – an insight from two leading experts, Chris Barker and Neil Tuckett
• The driver’s view – description of the controls and driving technique for the Model T
• The owner’s view – first-hand accounts from five Model T owners about why the car appeals to them
• Competition history – including Indianapolis 500, Le Mans 24-hours and ‘Pig ‘n Ford’ races in America
• Endless varieties – including trucks, ambulances, fire engines, army patrol cars and even rail cars
• Restoration – Three UK-based specialists talk about their projects
• Adventures – a trip across the North Island of New Zealand and a drive to the top of Ben Nevis in Scotland

The author

Chas Parker is a long-time motor racing enthusiast who has written many books about motor sport and historic racing cars, including comprehensive histories of Brand Hatch and Silverstone and Haynes Owners’ Workshop Manuals for the D-type Jaguar, Bugatti Type 35 and Lola T70. He has also written a number of books for Porter Press International, including The Michael Turner Collection and was shortlisted, together with co-author Philip Porter, for the 2017 RAC Motoring Book of the Year Award for his work on the 1953 Le Mans-winning C-type Jaguar, XKC 051. He lives in East Sussex with his partner, Diane.

Maserati celebrates the A6G 2000

by gaukcars.com | Oct 2, 2024 | Blog

Starting from Maserati’s roots to plan its future: the values of exclusivity, unique design and 100% Italian DNA of cars of the past are renewed today in the models that mark the Brand’s New Era.

It is in this spirit that Maserati celebrates the 70th anniversary of the A6G 2000.

The first A6G 2000, a car representative of the A6 series, built by Maserati from 1947 to 1956 and named in homage to Alfieri Maserati (hence the letter A) with a 6 indicating the engine type (straight 6) was delivered exactly 70 years ago, in February 1951.

The new model was the replacement for the A6 1500 series sports car, and its name referenced the cast iron (or “ghisa”) of its crankcase (“G”) and its engine displacement of 2,000 cc.

The need to increase power output in response to the general trend in the Italian market of demanding higher-performing cars, partly as a result of the country’s improving economic conditions, led Maserati to convert the A6GCS two-litre engine to fully exploit the potential of the A6’s chassis.

The increase in displacement compared to the previous A6 model was achieved through precision engineering work on the bore and stroke of the straight 6. The upgraded engine, with displacement of 1,954.3 cc, achieved a power output of 90 to 100 horsepower depending on the final setup, enabling a top speed of 180 km/h, a clear manifesto of Maserati cars’ quality sports spirit.

The 1950 Turin Motor Show provided the backdrop for the impressive launch of the A6G 2000, which Maserati presented in two versions: a 4-seater, 2-door sedan by Pininfarina, and a convertible designed by Pietro Frua.

Sixteen of these cars were assembled in 1950 and 1951: nine with bodywork by Pininfarina, and five convertibles and a coupé by Pietro Frua. Alfredo Vignale produced just one car, a two-tone A6G 2000 coupé, with his signature sporty stylistic features.

Rear-wheel drive, a gearbox with four speeds plus reverse and a dry-mounted single disc clutch completed the characteristics of the new A6G 2000, together with the independent wheel front suspensions and rear suspensions comprising rigid axle with leaf springs. Hydraulically operated drum brakes on all four wheels and solid steel or spoked wheels completed the carefully chosen blend of craftsmanship and technological innovation, which made this car, built for the few, an icon on the motoring scene of the time.

Uniqueness, sportiness and Italian construction are all central to Maserati’s DNA and are still visible today in the new models that will characterise the coming years, with state-of-the-art technological solutions.

Innovative by nature, Maserati plans its future by keeping faith with its past.

Maserati S.p.A.
Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars with an amazing personality, immediately recognisable anywhere. With their style, technology and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a global automotive industry benchmark. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance and safety, currently available on more than seventy markets internationally. Ambassadors of this heritage are the Quattroporte flagship, the Ghibli sports sedan, now also available in hybrid version, the Trident Brand’s first electrified car, and the Levante, the first made by Maserati SUV, all models denoted by use of the choicest materials and technical solutions of superlative excellence. A complete range, including V6 and V8 petrol, 4 cylinder hybrid and V6 diesel powerplants, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive. The range’s prestige was recently even further enhanced by the introduction of the new Trofeo Collection, comprising Ghibli, Quattroporte and Levante, equipped with the powerful 580 hp V8 engine. The top-of-the-range is the new MC20 supercar, powered by the ground-breaking Nettuno V6 engine, incorporating F1-derived technologies now made available in the power unit of a standard production car for the first time. Today, the Maserati range is produced at three plants: Ghibli and Quattroporte are built at Grugliasco (Turin) at the Avvocato Giovanni Agnelli Plant (AGAP), and Levante at the Mirafiori Plant in Turin. The new MC20 supercar is produced in Modena, at the historic Viale Ciro Menotti plant.