The ŠKODA KODIAQ aims to impress: the wide, three-dimensional radiator grille gives the KODIAQ a striking presence. In combination with the narrow, raked headlights, which are available with full-LED technology for the first time, the brand’s first large SUV will be instantly recognisable on the road. The side and rear views are also sharp: the doors are athletically shaped and the tailgate is expressively sculptured. The rear lights, with LED technology as standard, shine in the typical ŠKODA C-shape.

The KODIAQ offers an exceptional amount of space, with a capacity of 720 to 2,065 litres (with the rear seats folded down), offering the largest boot within its class.

For first time ever, ŠKODA will offer a seven seat option. Using the position of the seats and angle adjustment, KODIAQ can be adapted to offer a wide range of seating and loading solutions. With the front passenger seat down, the car can transport items up to 2.9 metres long.

The latest driver assistance systems ensure improved safety and comfort. Area View, using surround-view cameras with wide-angle lenses at the front and the rear as well as in the wing mirrors, displays various views of the car’s immediate surroundings on the in-car monitor. These include a virtual top-down view and 180-degree pictures from the areas to the front and rear. Tow Assist is also new to the range: When towing, the system takes over steering when reversing slowly. Additionally, while reversing, the new Manoeuvre Assist will brake as soon as an obstacle is detected behind the vehicle.

The ŠKODA Connect mobile online services are another innovation. They are divided into two categories: the Infotainment Online services ensure more information and navigation in real time, and the Care Connect services provide remote access as well as assistance.

The centrepiece of the Care Connect services is the emergency call following an accident: if an airbag is activated, a so-called Emergency Call (e-Call) automatically connects to an emergency call centre.

The ŠKODA KODIAQ will celebrate its world premiere on 1st September 2016, in Berlin.

Jeep UK and Factory Media, are unveiling a series of videos in which the popular Jeep Renegade helps explore the past, present and future ‘renegades’ of its surf and mountain biking sports ambassadors.

The series, called ‘Ultimate Renegades’, will reveal the adventures of Jeep ambassadors, mountain bikers Dan, Rachel and Gee Atherton – all part of cycling team Trek Factory Racing – and, to be released later in the summer, big wave surfer, Andrew Cotton. All are renegades who have helped shape the face of their sports.

The Renegade, will be at the helm of the story helping extreme sports presenters Tim Warwood and Adam Gendle go off-road to meet the Athertons.

Warwood and Gendle will give an insight into the sporting personalities as well as showing exclusive behind-the-scenes content and teaser footage.

Damien Dally, head of brand, Jeep UK, said: “It’s great the likes of the Athertons are able to travel to off-road remote locations in their Renegades and test themselves to the extreme. The Renegade is literally enabling them to go anywhere and do anything.”

The Ultimate Renegades series is live on social media, which can be found on Jeep’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/JeepUK, Twitter: @Jeep_UK and Instagram: @jeep_uk

For 2017, Range Rover receives a suite of advanced semi-autonomous driving technologies and the introduction of the new Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic.

The new SVAutobiography Dynamic model is the most powerful, most dynamic production Range Rover to date. The SVAutobiography Dynamic marries attention to detail with elegant and luxurious materials including diamond quilted leather seats, contrast stitching and a knurled finish rotary shift controller and pedals.

Powered by a 550HP V8 supercharged engine, the SVAutobiography Dynamic, through specially configured suspension, delivers the ultimate combination of performance and handling without compromising Range Rover’s peerless comfort and refinement delivering a 0-60 time of 5.1 seconds.

The new Ignis, Suzuki’s new compact crossover offering stylishness and utility, will make its European premiere next month at the 2016 Paris Mondial de l’Automobile.

Suzuki’s styling design heritage nurtured in a long history of compact car manufacturing has been passed down and some attributes are brought to life in the Ignis. The minimal exterior design looks fresh but undoubtedly Suzuki which makes the model purely iconic. The new Ignis will go on sale in the UK and Europe in January 2017.

Latest environmental technology from Suzuki includes a rigid, lightweight new-generation platform as well as the option of a compact and lightweight SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) which allows extra assistance through the electric motor and provides efficient battery recharge, these elements help achieve fuel efficiency without sacrificing good performance.

Also on display as a main exhibit is the SX4 S-Cross face-lift, with revamped front exterior design and further refined interior quality for a stronger yet more sophisticated character of an SUV. The facelifted model now features 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre Boosterjet direct-injection turbo engines that replace the existing 1.6 petrol unit. The 1.6 DDiS engine continues to be available and the new S-Cross model range will be launched in the UK in mid-October.

The new Audi Q2 is now available to order in the UK. Featuring a host of customisation options designed to make every model stand out from the crowd, the Q2  incorporates a suite of Vorsprung durch Technik innovations from the full-size class with a focus on connectivity and infotainment.

Prices start from £22,380 OTR, with more engines and an even lower pricing point to follow shortly, including an entry level three-cylinder 1.0 TFSI and a 2.0 TDI with 190PS, the latter introducing the option of quattro all-wheel drive. From next month, Audi is also introducing an entirely new and individual specification to the line-up – the Q2 Edition #1.

Three specification levels will be available from launch – SE, Sport and S line. Both SE and Sport models are equipped with contrasting lower bumpers, side skirts and wheel arch trims in matching Manhattan grey, while the signature S line full body colour finish further enhances its distinctive visual appeal.

The full body colour paint finish can also be separately selected as a no-cost option on Sport models, if preferred. Vibrant colour choices include the newly available Coral orange as well as Vegas yellow and Ara blue, all of which accentuate the lines of the polygon design, concave door flanks andcoupé-like roof.

Entry-level SE versions benefit from many features as standard. Among them is the Audi smartphone interface, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto displayed via the MMI screen once a phone is plugged in via USB. A Bluetooth interface is also standard, as is the MMI radio plus with MMI controller and heated, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors. Inlays can be chosen in white or orange as standard and in matt brushed aluminium or illuminated design (part of the LED Interior Pack Advanced) as an option. Progressive steering is also standard in the Audi Q2. Its steering rack is designed so that the steering ratio becomes increasingly direct when turning. The electro-mechanically driven and thus highly efficient steering adapts its assistance to speed and works together with the optional Audi active lane assist and park assist.

Sport models gain 17-inch alloy wheels (up from 16 inches on SE), Audi drive select with five operational modes, cruise control, light and rain sensors and sport seats upholstered in cloth.

Stand-out features on S line models include the hallmark front, side and rear styling enhancements, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps with LED rear lights and dynamic sweeping rear indicators, LED interior lighting and front sport seats upholstered in cloth/leather upholstery with S embossing on the backrests.

A multi-function perforated leather steering wheel is also standard, featuring grey contrasting stitching and S line badging. Inlays are finished in brushed aluminium.

The Endurance Rally Association (ERA) has revealed the first of its exciting events for 2018 – an all-new Trans-America Challenge that will combine great American roads with five-star luxury. Crews will rally from Charleston, South Carolina, starting on 27^th May and finishing in Seattle, Washington some 21-days later on 17^th June 2018.

The route has been put together by ERA Rally Director and former World Rally Championship co-driver Fred Gallagher with the support of American historic rally guru Steve McKelvie.

“The first Trans-Am in 2012 was very much following the famous tourist route, while the 2015 event took the northern route encompassing some well-known landmarks. Having competed in six professional USA rallies in the 1970s and 80s, I know there is a great wealth of terrain and stunning locations that have yet been untapped by historic rallying.

“Bringing in Steve will add a whole new dimension to the event. Our combined experience and knowledge will create a desirable route that not only takes in the best of the beautiful south but also features a fantastic range of gravel trails and forest regularities as we head towards the west. This will be the best Trans-Am yet!”

Starting in Charleston, the oldest city in the USA, on Sunday 27^th May, the competitors will head to Charlotte, home of the NASCAR Hall of Fame. From there, it’s on to Nashville and Memphis, Tennessee, before heading into the deep south of Jackson, Mississippi, and a rest day in the amazing city of New Orleans.

Then it’s into Texas with Galveston, Austin, Wichita Falls and Amarillo on the route before entering Santa Fe, New Mexico. After experiencing ‘cowboy country’, its time to head north to Colorado Springs and a luxurious rest day in the famous ski resort of Aspen before heading to the stunning desert plains of Moab and Sundance, Utah, Boise, Idaho and Newberg, Oregon.

The competitors will arrive in Seattle three weeks later on Sunday 17^th June having journeyed through twelve states and rallied 8,000 kilometres.

To find out more about the ERA’s events, visit www.endurorally.com.

Homeowners could add up to 10 percent to the value of their property and generate an additional income of £1,500 a year by adding a parking space to their home according to online parking marketplace, YourParkingSpace.co.uk.

With record house prices and current Brexit effect uncertainty surrounding the UK housing market, the news from YourParkingSpace.co.uk could provide a welcome solution to families who are finding it difficult to move up the property ladder.

“It’s never been a more difficult time for those on the housing ladder and many families are finding that they need to find new ways to raise money and bridge the funding gap to their next home”, said Harrison Woods, managing director at YourParkingSpace.co.uk. “Having a parking space close to your home is highly valued by potential property buyers and it’s one of the most profitable home improvements that you can make. You can also start earning money straight away. By renting out your parking space you can generate extra income meaning that if you do decide to move up the property ladder you’ll have even more money to help you out.”

Virgin Money estimates that creating a driveway could add up to around £19,000 to the value of a property, based on the price of an average home, compared with updating a kitchen or adding another bathroom which could add around £11,500 or adding a conservatory which could add just £9,600.

As house values continue to rise, the gap between the second and third rungs of the property ladder are likely to get wider making it difficult for many homeowners to make the step up.  Wage inflation is also unlikely to solve the situation with a recent report from the Resolution Foundation stating that millennials are at risk of becoming the first ever generation to record lower lifetime earnings than the previous generation.

According to forecasts from The Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) last week, house prices are set to climb over the next five years and are expected to increase by £40,000 despite “tremors” caused by the Brexit vote.

Beaulieu has notched up another record turn-out for its latest Simply event as nearly 1,000 visitors enjoyed the impressive display at Simply Land Rover.

As many as 935 visitors attended the weekend’s event, 246 up on last year’s rally, making their way across perfect New Forest terrain to the gathering in the grounds of the National Motor Museum.

Beaulieu’s Simply Japanese, Simply Porsche and Simply Ford rallies have all attracted record turn-outs already this summer.

Now in its fourth year, Simply Land Rover continues to grow in popularity with its impressive display which includes the classic Series I, II and III, iconic Range Rover, capable Discovery and rugged County and Defender. All Land Rover models and derivatives were on show, from battle-scarred workhorses to pristine show winners.

Celebrating Britain’s favourite 4×4, this favourite event for off-road fans also offered the chance to practice driving skills at Beaulieu’s own Forest Drive. Held in partnership with Land Rover Experience West Country, this separately charged feature allowed Land Rover owners to both try out the capabilities of their own vehicles as well as test their driving skills on the off-road course. Those without a Land Rover were able to drive or ride in a Land Rover Experience vehicle.

Event-goers voted for their favourite Land Rover in the People’s Choice Award. Lecturer Ben Shotter was the winner with his green Defender 110, which he bought from a friend of his grandparents two years ago. Ben has used his Defender to go bird spotting across the country and brought nine people in the back for Beaulieu’s event. He was presented with a commemorative Beaulieu trophy and an Autoglym prize by Beaulieu MD Russell Bowman, before leading a cavalcade through the attraction grounds.

Runners-up included Ian Marshall from Newbury, who had carried out a full restoration on his  green Series I Land Rover, and Miles Glenn, who bought his Series IIa from his father 39 years ago before restoring it to use as his wedding car. The colour of Miles’ Land Rover is Southern TV Blue because it was bought from Barry Westwood, a Southern Television presenter.

Rally-goers were also able to visit all the features of the Beaulieu attraction with their event admission, including entry to the National Motor Museum, the World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, 13^th century Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House, which has been home to the Montagu family since 1538.

Simply Land Rover is just one event in Beaulieu’s 2016 Simply rally line-up. The final rally of the year is Simply Smart on November 13^th. For the full list of Beaulieu events, see www.beaulieu.co.uk/events or follow @Beaulieu_Hants on Twitter.

Dacia is inviting owners from across the United Kingdom to the fourth annual Dacia Day, taking place on 13^th August at Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome, Leicestershire. The free event, exclusively for Dacia owners will offer opportunities to meet with other passionate Dacia owners and a fun day out for the whole family.

Organised in conjunction with the Dacia Forum, an independent website for Dacia owners in the UK, attendees can enjoy an active family day out by trying their skills at archery and falconry, experience Rugby League up close with an opportunity to take a look around the new Duster Rugby League special editions, test drive each Dacia model – including the Duster on a dedicated 4×4 off-road course, and tickle their taste buds at a cake emporium for those with a sweet tooth. There will also be a bouncy castle area for the younger members of the family. The fun day out for all of the family also includes a tour around the Aerodrome’s amazing selection of historic aircraft.

Louise O’Sullivan, Head of Dacia UK, said: “Dacia Day promises to be a fun-filled free event with something for everyone. We love to see all of our customers enjoying themselves and many look forward to sharing experiences with other Dacia owners. A strong sense of community is one of the reasons why owners rate Dacia so highly so we’re really pleased to be involved with this fourth annual Dacia Day.  We encourage everyone to bring a picnic with them and to make the most of the day!”

Dacia owners can register to attend by visiting www.info.dacia.co.uk/daciaday

Hyundai Motor UK has revealed pricing and specification details for its new i20 Turbo Edition. The i20 Turbo Edition will be priced from £12,975 when it enters showrooms this month.

Meeting the growing trend for small capacity turbo petrol engines, the special edition i20 Turbo features Hyundai’s  100PS 1.0-litre turbocharged 3 cylinder petrol engine with CO₂ emissions just 104 g/km.

Fitted with distinctive 16” alloy wheels, the special edition model will be available in a choice of six exterior colours: Polar White, Aqua Sparkling, Sleek Silver, Stardust Grey, Phantom Black and Red Passion, all with a sophisticated Black/Grey interior.

Based on the well-specified i20 SE, the sporty new i20 Turbo Edition offers Bluetooth^®, DAB digital radio, cruise control with speed limiter, and a leather wrapped steering wheel with audio and phone controls as standard. The special edition builds on the SE model’s specification, adding a rear view camera, automatic lights with dusk sensor, and satellite navigation via a seven-inch integrated touch screen.

With the satellite navigation upgrade, Turbo Edition owners receive a free seven-year TomTom Live Services subscription, which provides the most up to date traffic information, speed camera alerts, weather updates, and live Point Of Interest notifications.

To coincide with the launch of the Turbo Edition, Hyundai Motor UK will be launching a new TV advertisement for the i20 which will run from August 5 – September 19.