Car and Van News

Skoda will launch a refreshed version of its Superb large hatch and estate on 17th July, at prices starting from £18,555.

The new version includes revised visuals, an upgraded interior and significantly improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

What is it: Latest version of Ford’s pocket rocket

Key features: New Ecoboost engine, clever chassis, budget price

Volkswagen has opened order books for its latest Golf BlueMotion, promising the best emissions and economy yet seen in the car.

The new BlueMotion offers official combined cycle fuel consumption of 88.3 mpg and CO2 emissions of 85g/km.

Mercedes-Benz claims its all-new Sprinter van will knock all rivals aside in terms of safety, emissions and economy.

The van, for which order books open in June, comes with five new safety systems and best-in-class fuel consumption, and is also the first LCV to meet the Euro VI emissions standard.

The third generation of Kia’s Carens compact MPV will arrive in showrooms next week with a £17,895 price tag.

The seven-seater car will be on offer with three engines and three trim levels.

Ford has announced a £24 million investment in its engine plant in Bridgend, south Wales.

The money, £12 million of which is being supplied by the Welsh Assembly government, will enable the building of new 1.5-litre EcoBoost engines at the plant.

The first of 13 new engines to be fitted to Vauxhall Opel cars are now being rolled out.

All of the units will be in vehicles by 2016 as the brands try to address criticism of their current powerplants.