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Vauxhall launches new green version of the Astra

Vauxhall has announced the latest addition to its range of low-CO2 cars, the Astra Ecoflex. It has CO2 emissions of just 119g/km and returns 62.8mpg on the combined cycle. The new model will be available in three body styles - five-door hatchback, three-door Sport Hatch and estate and all will have the same levels of fuel economy and emissions.

At the heart of the new Ecoflex models is a 1.7-litre diesel engine that develops 108bhp and 192lb ft, enough to take the car to a maximum speed of 117mph. At the same time, Vauxhall has fitted a taller axle ratio, tweaked the engine management software and reduced the engine's idling speed. Also, 30 kg has been taken off the car's weight, and the aerodynamics have been improved by lowering the suspension, modifying the front air intakes and fitting a new lower engine compartment panel that reduces drag. Finally, the power steering pump has a lower idle speed, and the car is fitted with low rolling resistance tyres. The resulting emissions of 119g/km are not quite as low as those on the similar Econetic versions of the Ford Focus, but crucially they are below 120g/km.

Next year, Vauxhall will introduce two more Ecoflex models: a 109g/km Corsa 1.3 CDTi with combined mpg of nearly 69mpg, and a low-emissions version of the Insignia, the forthcoming replacement for the Vectra.

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Audi develops racing version of R8 for customers

For the first time, Audi is to develop a racing sports car specifically for customer use. The GT3 version of the R8, with at least 500bhp, will be available from autumn next year.

"The R8 is the first production Audi bearing the name and genes of a successful racing sportscar and is therefore an excellent base from which to build up our first big customer sport programme," said Wolfgang Ullrich, head of Audi Motorsport. "Ever since the R8 was unveiled, we've been inundated with enquiries about a race version. With the Audi R8 we will offer customers a racing sportscar equipped with high-calibre technology and the typical Audi qualities, but which is nevertheless easy to handle."

The Audi R8 conforms to the production-based GT3 regulations, allowing the car to compete in numerous national and international race series. However, because the GT3 regulations prohibit the use of four-wheel drive, the Audi R8 will have rear-wheel drive, with power transmitted via a newly developed six-speed sequential sports gearbox. The suspension uses almost exclusively components from the production line, while a modified front end and a large rear wing generate the required downforce.

The first test races in various European racing series are scheduled for the 2009 season.

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Seat Ibiza Cupra and Ecomotive to debut in Paris

Seat is expanding its new Ibiza range further with the launch of new Cupra and Ecomotive models. Both at different ends of the performance scale, the sports-orientated Ibiza Cupra will be powered by a 178bhp 1.4-litre turbo-charged and super-charged engine, mated with a seven-speed DSG gearbox with F1-style paddle shifts. It is based on the three-door SportsCoupe model and features 17-inch alloy wheels, a rear diffuser incorporating a centrally-placed trapezoid exhaust pipe, Cupra sports seats and aluminium pedals.

The next generation Ibiza Ecomotive, however, offers CO2 emissions of just 99g/km. It will be available in three- and five-door variants and powered by an 80bhp 1.4 TDI engine which will also benefit from fuel economy of around 74 mpg.

Both cars will make their debut at the Paris Motor Show in October.

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Kia to unveil Soul production car next month

Kia has released details of its new Soul urban crossover vehicle which is due to go on sale in Europe next February. It will be powered by a range of engines already featured in the Cee'd line-up, including a 125bhp diesel unit.

The Soul will make its world premiere on the Kia stand at the Paris International Motorshow in October.

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