Mercedes-Benz is currently working on a facelifted version of its own E-Class that is supposed to enter the market next year, and here are a few sneaky pics of its estate variant that our photographers managed to take a few days ago. We can see that the split headlights will actually turn into a single sleeker unit, implying that Mercedes is going to move away from the four-eyes look that was started on the W210 E-Class back in 1995. The LED Day driving lights will be integrated in the headlight unit while both front and rear bumpers will obviously get a restyling too. The rear lights will get new graphics but will still remain in the same shape.

View the Mercedes E-Class facelift spy shots gallery

Of all the ads or marketing campaigns, this is without doubt one of the most bizarre. Hyundai promotes the i30 as a “family car”, a car that should handle well even the cheekiest mistreatment. So what better way than leaving one car, with the doors open, for 10 hours at the mercy of 40 playful baboons? All this happened at the Knowsley Safari Park near Liverpool. The test proved to be very successful: “For a baboon, to have a car to play with for a whole day is manna from heaven!” said David Ross, Park Manager. “I’ve seen thousands of cars pass through this enclosure, get mobbed by monkeys, and none have lasted the distance as well as this Hyundai.”

We just received a new set of spy shots starring the upcoming Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake, a station wagon variant of the famous coupe from the house of the three-pointed star, and from what we can see the model is clearly into its final stage of testing. The very light camouflage worn by the pictured mule allows us to appreciate what we would expect to be the definitive design of the model, which retains the aggressive styling we had seen with the Shooting Brake Concept, a concept-car which anticipated this model and was firstly introfuced at the 2010 Beijing Motor Show.

The new model has been developed on the same platform that generated the Mercedes CLS, and will have the same engine range too: on the petrol side there will be a 3.5-litre V6 developing 306 hp, and a 4.7-litre twin-turbo V8 developing 408 hp, whereas on the diesel side we will have a 2.1-litre biturbo producing 204 hp with 500 Nm of peak torque as well as the recent 3.0-litre V6 delivering 265 hp and 620 Nm of torque. AMG and AMG Performance variants equipped with the well-known 5.5 litre twin turbo V8 engine are obviously also in the cards: the former will use a power configuration of 525 hp and 700 Nm, the latter will count on an output of 557 hp with 800 Nm of peak torque.

View the Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake spy shots gallery

Here is a new set of spy shots picturing a slightly disguised mule of the definitive version of the next Audi RS6 Avant, caught on camera while lapping the Nurburgring very early in the morning. The new RS6 Avant is expected to come with the same TFSI 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 engine already equipping the S6, S7 and S8 models as well as the Bentley Continental GT V8. At the moment the kind of power that this car will have at its disposal is not clear, but it is likely to be over the 500 hp mark. The aforementioned Bentley Continental GT, for instance, develops 507 hp with 660 Nm of peak torque, whereas the Audi S8 produces 520 hp and 650 Nm of torque.

As the tradition of this model dictates, the new RS6 will come once again with a wider track. The front bumper is still the one we had seen in the spy shots we published last January and, as anticipated, the car will use a pair of oval-shaped mufflers. It is also fair to assume that the model will come with some CFRP parts in order to keep its overall weight as low as possible, in the same fashion as the recent Audi RS3.

Subaru will be featuring at the 2012 New York Auto Show (6th-15th April) with the restyled Legacy and Outback models, subject to an aesthetic upgrade. The front section gets a styling update similar to the one proposed by the new Impreza and benefits of some interventions to the front bumper, a more generous grille and new headlights. Inside we find enriched finishes, a multi-function 3.5 inch display and a redesigned dashboard plus a more sophisticated sound system equipped with Bluetooth, iPod and USB connectivity. Subaru technicians have also enhanced steering and suspension setup to improve comfort.

Under the hood is placed a new 2.5 litres four-cylinder boxer engine coupled to a six-speed manual transmission or an automatic Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). It delivers 175 hp and 236 Nm of torque, 3 hp and 5 Nm more than the previous version. The engine range also includes a second boxer, a 3.6 litres with 260 hp. The technological equipment is also enhanced with a few safety systems: Eyesight Pre-Collision Braking, Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Active Cruise Control.

In the wake of the various spy shots of the Mercedes CLS Shooting Brake that have come up in recent months, today we have received something a little more juicy in the form of a new set of sneaky pics starring its most sporty variant, the CLS 63 enhanced by AMG.

The Mercedes CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake is undergoing the same sort of cosmetic surgey that has been used to create the AMG version of its coupe counterpart, thereby it gets newly designed front and rear bumpers, an aggressive-looking set of wheels and a new quadruple exhaust system, while the braking system will be upgraded as well.

However, the real star here is the powerful 5.5-litre twin turbo V8 engine with direct injection that will be made available in two power steps: 525 hp with 700 Nm of peak torque for the ‘regular’ version and 557 hp with 800 Nm for the AMG Performance variant. The model will also use the 7-speed automatic Speedshift MCT gearbox, a transmission that has been specifically developed for AMG models.

South Korean manufacturer Kia introduces at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show the new version of its own Cee’d and Cee’d Station Wagon. In the comparison with the old versions, this new range is a significant leap forward in terms of style, quality and mechanics, positioning itself at the same level of the most prestigious European models of the C-segment. The torsional stiffness of the chassis has been increased by 45 % thanks to the adoption of high-resistance steel which has been used for the 57% of the frame, while MacPherson-type suspension at the front and multilink at the back also play a part in making this car more stable than its predecessor.

The 5-door Cee’d measures 4.31 meters in length (+50 mm over the old one), 1.4 (-10 mm because of its reduced ride height) and 1.78 in width (-10 mm), whereas the wheelbase remains the same, 2,650 mm. The new Cee’d boasts a Cd of 0,30, which says a lot about the work done on the aerodynamics, while consumption went down by 4%. Its engine range will include two petrol (a 100hp 1.4-litre MPI and a 135 hp 1.6 GDI) and two diesel options (a 90 hp 1.4 WGT and a 1.6-litre WGT available in power steps of 110 and 128 hp).

Kia expects the new Cee’d to continue the successful history of the previous range, which, launched in 2007, now stands as the best selling car ever in Europe for the manufacturer. The new Cee’d range has been designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, has improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions and comes with good value for money: it has all it takes to be successful, but - as always - it will be the market to have the last say on the matter. To find out more about the new Kia Cee’d and Cee’d Station Wagon, check out the official press release after the jump.

View the full 2012 Kia range live at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show photo gallery

WORLD PREMIERE FOR ALL-NEW KIA CEE’D AT GENEVA

- Second-generation of Kia’s best-selling model in Europe
- Revealed at Geneva in five-door hatchback and SW bodystyles
- Range features new 135 ps GDI petrol and 128 ps CRDi diesel engines
- Improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from just 97 g/km
- Available with a new Kia-developed Dual-Clutch Transmission
- Designed, engineered and manufactured exclusively in Europe

Making its global premiere at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show is the all-new Kia cee’d. More sophisticated, more efficient, more refined and with a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor, new cee’d is expected to build on the success of the original model, further establishing Kia as one of the leading automotive brands in Europe.

Launched in 2007, the original cee’d was a landmark and game-changing model for Kia. Designed, developed and built in Europe, cee’d was the first model to establish Kia as a serious contender to the established brands. Winning praise from media and public alike for its all-round ownership proposition, cee’d claimed fourth place in the European Car of the Year Awards that year – the highest ever ranking for a Kia vehicle.

“The original cee’d was a paradigm shift for Kia, taking the company into the hotly contested C-segment with a truly competitive car for the first time,” comments Paul Philpott, Chief Operating Officer, Kia Motors Europe. “Just as the original cee’d represented a major step forward for Kia in 2007, this second-generation model represents a further leap for the brand – both in terms of the capability and sophistication of the vehicle, and what it will do to drive further momentum in our European sales.

“Since launch, the cee’d family has recorded over 430,000 sales in Western Europe, changing the public perception of our brand and laying the foundations for a series of new Kia models across a broad spread of market sectors.

“The remarkable success of our newest models, Picanto, Rio, Soul, Venga, Sportage and Sorento, owes much to the impact made by the original cee’d and the innovative seven year Kia warranty we introduced with that model,” Philpott concludes.

New cee’d five-door goes on sale across Europe from the second quarter of 2012, depending on market, and will play a significant role in driving Kia’s sales in Europe even higher. Further information about other models in the new cee’d family – including the SW version displayed at Geneva – will be made available later this year.

Longer, lower and more streamlined

New cee’d is both longer and lower than its predecessor, giving the five-door hatchback a more sporty profile. Overall length is increased by 50 mm (to 4,310 mm) and overall height has been reduced by 10 mm (to 1,470 mm) by lowering the ride height. Despite being based on a completely new platform, new cee’d carries over the 2,650 mm wheelbase, one of the longest in the C-segment, from its predecessor.

This more athletic appearance is further enhanced by a wider track. While the overall bodyshell is 10 mm narrower, the front and rear track have been increased (by 17 mm and 32 mm, respectively). The impact on the car’s aesthetics is heightened by the availability of 17- and 18-inch diameter alloy wheels, resulting in a minimal gap between tyres and bodywork.

The new model’s sleek silhouette was shaped by extensive testing in the state-of-the-art wind tunnel at Kia’s R&D centre at Namyang, Korea. A reduced windscreen angle, smooth covers beneath the engine bay and the central floor, a rear spoiler above the tailgate and carefully profiled rear lamp clusters all help new cee’d achieve a Cd figure of just 0.30, placing it among the best-in-class, and helping to reduce fuel consumption and cabin noise.

New cee’d will be manufactured exclusively at Kia’s Zilina facility in Slovakia in a range of 10 exterior colours – including five new – and will be among the first models to bear the new-look Kia badge on its bonnet. Simpler, sleeker and with a more modern appearance, the new badge design echoes the premium feel of new cee’d and incorporates the Kia script in a single raised section for greater legibility.

Powerful and efficient engines with six-speed transmissions

In developing new cee’d, Kia’s engineers had a strong focus on reducing fuel consumption and emissions without sacrificing engine response or power output. Updated engines and various small but impactful changes have resulted in an average fuel consumption improvement of four per cent across the model range.

Depending on individual market preferences, the new cee’d will be available with a wide choice of engines offering power outputs from 90 to 135 ps. Across most of Western Europe there will be two petrol engines – a 1.4 MPI and a 1.6 GDI producing 100 and 135 ps respectively – plus two diesels – a 1.4 WGT with an output of 90 ps and 1.6 VGT diesel offered in two states of tune (110 and 128 ps). Certain markets in Europe will also offer a 1.6 MPI petrol unit producing 130 ps.

Kia anticipates that its top of the range diesel – the highly-efficient 1.6-litre variable geometry turbo unit – will be the most popular choice in most markets. Generating 128 ps and 260 Nm, the engine will be offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions and will accelerate the new cee’d to 100 kph in less than 11 seconds. Fuel consumption will be just 4.1 l/100 km on the combined cycle (3.7 l/100 km in cars fitted with Kia’s EcoDynamics technologies), and CO2 emissions start at just 97 g/km.

The ‘Gamma’ petrol engines also offer an excellent balance between performance and economy. The most powerful, the 1.6-litre Gamma GDI engine introduced in the Kia Sportage, features direct injection to maximise power (135 ps) and torque (165 Nm) while minimising fuel consumption and emissions. With this engine, new cee’d will accelerate to 100 kph in 9.9 seconds while delivering fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km (5.2 l/100 km with EcoDynamics), and tailpipe CO2 emissions from 119 g/km.

All engines will be offered with a choice of manual or automatic six-speed transmissions. Depending on version, the 1.6 GDI will also be available with Kia’s all-new six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which improves fuel efficiency and delivers smooth automatic gear shifts for maximum comfort.

Developed by Kia’s in-house transmission development team in partnership with a German-based engineering firm, the DCT makes the Korean brand one of a very small number of car makers in the world to produce its own dual-clutch transmission.

The DCT combines two manual transmissions within a single housing, each with its own dry clutch. One transmission shaft is dedicated to 2nd, 4th, 6th and reverse gear, while the other operates with 1st, 3rd and 5th gears.

Working in parallel, one shaft prepares to engage the next ratio, while the other is still engaged with a gear. Electric motor-driven actuators controlled by the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) execute gear selection and clutch engagement, resulting in swift and precise gear changes and uninterrupted torque transfer to the driven wheels, with a minimum of the efficiency loss normally associated with conventional automatics (with a torque converter).

As with other Kia models in Europe, new cee’d will be available with fuel-saving technologies developed under the company’s EcoDynamics™ sub-brand to optimise efficiency and lower emissions. These technologies, which will be available on both diesel and petrol models with manual transmission, include ISG (Start/Stop), low-rolling resistance tyres and an alternator management system (AMS).

Smoother ride with improved handling, plus variable power steering

Ride and handling for new cee’d was benchmarked against class-leading competitor vehicles from near-premium brands.

Fully-independent, subframe-mounted suspension with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear exploit the newcomer’s wider track to deliver improved handling and road-holding.

The hugely increased torsional rigidity of the new cee’d bodyshell (45 per cent stiffer than the original model), has also enabled Kia’s engineers to introduce numerous small changes to components, springs and shock absorbers that influence ride quality, refinement and NVH.

Improvements to the front suspension include an increased castor angle (from 4.4 to 5.2 degrees) for greater straight-line stability, larger wheel bearings in a reinforced hub, and larger diameter bushes for the subframe attachments. At the rear, geometry changes ensure more accurate tracking, the trailing arms have larger bushes and friction has been reduced throughout the system.

The standard steering system employs electric power-assistance and requires 2.85 turns lock-to-lock for a 10.34-metre turning circle. New cee’d is also available, on certain models, with an all-new Flex Steer™ system for improved driving dynamics. This system introduces three operating modes – comfort, normal and sport – allowing the driver to vary the level of steering assistance and the weight of feedback, in order to best suit the current driving conditions and the driver’s personal preferences.

Less cabin noise, more cabin space

Kia’s engineering team was determined to achieve significant improvements over the previous model in terms of cabin refinement and NVH. Measures adopted include fitting 14 per cent thicker front door window glass, low-drag exterior mirror housings, new vibration-damping engine mounts, hollow drive shafts, stronger bodyshell joints between the sills and B-pillars, double-layer door seals, and increased foam-filling in the A-, B- and C-pillars. As a result of these measures, cabin noise levels have been cut to match class-best standards.

Although the 2,650 mm wheelbase is carried over for new cee’d, the increase in overall length contributes to more interior space for people and cargo. Front seat occupants have 12 mm more headroom and 21 mm more legroom, while rear passengers gain 5 mm of shoulder room. Cargo capacity is boosted by 12 per cent to 380 litres (up 40 litres) with the rear seats upright and the split-folding rear seats can be made fully flat for maximum versatility.

High-quality equipment and advanced technologies

Higher quality cabin materials and a broader range of high-tech equipment will ensure the interior of new cee’d matches the premium exterior appearance.

Primary and secondary controls are grouped in a driver-oriented layout for intuitive ease of use, while new standard equipment will include tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, iPod, Aux and USB support, six speaker audio system and a multi-mode trip computer.

A choice of bright chrome, piano black and anodized metal trim accents will be offered, while indirect LED lighting of the centre console and sweeping ‘vertical fin’ door handles establish an upmarket ambience for the cabin. The seat and cabin trim will be available in a choice of two colours as standard – black one-tone and stone beige two-tone – in cloth, with a full leather interior available on high specification versions.

Available features will include enhanced instrumentation – with a TFT ‘Supervision’ Cluster delivering high-definition resolution clarity of the instrument binnacle, dual-zone climate control, powered driver’s seat adjustment with memory and a full length (1,045 mm long) powered panoramic glass sunroof.

New cee’d will be available, depending on version, with LED daytime running lights, fixed cornering lamps (illuminated depending on steering angle), and advanced HID headlamps that turn the low beam to match curves in the road and enhance the driver’s night vision.

Parking can be made easier with the new Parallel Park Assist System (PPAS). This features front, side and rear sensors and automatic steering control by an on-board computer to safely perform parallel parking. The driver remains in control of the accelerator and brake.

Safety structure and features target maximum rating

Kia continues to make safety a top priority and the new cee’d features advanced active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants and other road users. Kia is determined to achieve the maximum rating when tested by EuroNCAP with this new model.

Available active safety features will include ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ABS (anti-lock braking system), BAS (emergency Brake Assist System), HAC (Hill Assist Control) to prevent roll-back, VSM (Vehicle Stability Management) and ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) which flashes the brake lights when the system detects that the driver is making an emergency stop.

In terms of passive safety, the bodyshell is constructed using a high percentage (57 per cent) of ultra high-tensile steel and features numerous improvements to enhance impact resistance. New transverse cross-members are fitted to link the front and rear suspension mounts, new pressings link the rear trunk floor to the tailgate opening and the rear roof rail is connected to the C-pillars and a new floor cross-member to create an extremely strong ’safety ring’.

Side impact protection is enhanced with 50 per cent thicker door beams, plus a stronger roof cross-member between the B-pillars and side sills made from ultra high-tensile steel.

Each new cee’d is fitted with six airbags as standard – front, front side and full length curtain. Pedestrian safety is improved with the adoption of collapsible headlamps, a stiffer lower bumper lip, and shock-absorbing structures in the hood and its hinges.

Jaguar introduces to the world its brand new XF Sportbrake at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, a station wagon version of the XF that measures 4.96 meters in length and is 70 kg heavier than its saloon counterpart. The model boasts a very elegant and streamlined design that uses a very stylish solution for the C-pillar, whose presence is hidden by a gloss matt finishing that makes it almost invisible. This solution also emphasizes the chrome outline of the glazing, while the rear end gets an extra touch of modernity thanks to the LED technology adopted for the tail lights.

The capacity of its trunk varies from 550 to 1,675 litres (with the rear bench folded). The model will make its debut on the market with an engine line-up made of diesel options only: a 2.2-litre delivering 190 hp and a 3.0 V6 available in two power steps: 240 and 275 hp (for the ‘S’ version). Later on another unit will join the fold in the form of a 5.0-litre V8 producing 510 hp (for the “R” version), that will sit at top of the range.

Making is European debut at the Swiss event is also the beautiful XKR-S Cabriolet, which comes with specifically developed aerodynamics, dedicated set-up, carbon fibre trim, electronically adjustable sports seats and 20″ alloy wheels fitted with 255/35 and 295/30 tyres. This model is powered by a 5.0-litre V8 with volumetric supercharger that produces an output of 550 hp, making it the fastest Convertible GT model ever produced by the British manufacturer. The XKR-S Cabriolet can go from standstill to 100 km/h (96 mph) in just 4.4 seconds, with a self-imposed toop speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The model uses a 6-speed automatic transmission with an electronically controlled limited slip differential and weighs only 1795 kg, thanks to the large use of aluminum for its chassis. Also on display at the Jaguar booth in Geneva is the XK Artisan SE, a new E-segment model that will be marketed in the U.K. only. Check the whole lot out in our exclusive photo gallery.

View the full 2012 Geneva Motor Show: Jaguar’s stand photo gallery

The colleagues from CarNews release a new video starring the recent Passat Alltrack, which was introduced last December at the Tokyo and Bologna Motor Shows. The model comes in an estate car configuration and - in VW’s plans - it is supposed to close the gap between the conventional Passat Estate and SUVs like the Tiguan.

The engine line-up for the model includes two turbocharged direct injection petrol units (TSI) delivering 160 and 210hp as well as two turbodiesels (TDI), also with direct injection, producing 140 and 170 hp. The two most powerful Alltrack variants (the 170 hp TDI and the 210 hp TSI) will also come with standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive system and a dual clutch transmission (DSG). As for its carbon footprint, Volkswagen claims that the 140 hp version has a low combined fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 150 g/km, while fuel consumption for the 170 hp version is rated at 5.8 l/100 km, with 152 g/km of CO2 emission. The car rolls on 17″ alloys (although an 18″ option is also available) using a special tyre pressure monitoring indicator.

The cabin of the new Passat Alltrack uses top notch trim, comfort seats with lateral supports in Alcantara, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift lever, accents in ‘Titan Silver’, aluminum pedals and automatic climate control. Obviously, all sorts of electronic trickery and connectivity options are also there, as well as a number of safety systems. If you want to know more about this model, check out the official Press Release right after the jump.

View the full Volkswagen Passat Alltrack photo gallery

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack

• Passat Alltrack unites passenger car and SUV worlds
• Passat Alltrack has higher ground clearance and new off-road design
• 4MOTION all-wheel drive is standard for 170 PS TDI and 210 PS TSI

Wolfsburg / Tokyo, 30 November 2011 - Over the past four decades, well over 15 million Passat cars have been built. Along with its favourable all-round qualities, the success of the bestseller – which is sold on all of the world’s continents – can be attributed to the Passat’s wide and diverse range of versions. Now, Volkswagen is extending the model series with another specialist: the Passat Alltrack. This new version is offered in an estate car configuration, and it closes the gap between the conventional Passat Estate and SUVs such as the Tiguan. The rationale here: many car drivers who use their car as a towing vehicle, or in light off-road situations, want a versatile, sporty and very roomy passenger car that has rugged qualities. Volkswagen developed the Passat Alltrack for this clientele. In comparison with the familiar Passat Estate, the new model is defined by new bumpers in SUV style – with wheel well and side sill flares. Its greater off-road ramp angle, approach angle, departure angle and higher ground clearance all make the Passat Alltrack an excellent SUV alternative for driving on unpaved track. The Alltrack will debut in a world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show (03 to 11 December); market launch for the new versatile Alltrack begins in early 2012.

Drive versions

Two turbocharged direct injection petrol engines (TSI) with 118 kW / 160 PS and 155 kW / 210 PS and two turbodiesels (TDI) – also with direct injection – with 103 kW / 140 PS and 125 kW / 170 PS are available in the Passat Alltrack. The two most powerful Alltrack versions, the 170 PS TDI and the 210 PS TSI, have standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive and a dual clutch transmission (DSG). For the Passat Alltrack with a 140 PS TDI, Volkswagen will offer all-wheel drive as an option. Just how efficiently the engines of the Passat Alltrack operate together with the intelligently controlled 4MOTION all-wheel drive system is illustrated by the two TDI engines: the 140 PS version has a low combined fuel consumption of 5.7* l/100 km (equivalent to 150* g/km CO2), while fuel consumption for the 170 PS version is 5.8* l/100 km (152* g/km CO2).

Visual modifications

Good styling always visually reflects a car’s conceptual parameters. In the case of the Passat Alltrack, these include the vehicle’s much more versatile performance parameters for driving on rough terrain than would be found on a conventional estate car. The declared goal of the designers was to reflect this competence with very functional styling. In the area of the side profile, for example, the mentioned classic wheel housings and side sill flares are used, which are functionally oriented and offer rugged protection. The elements do not simply have the appearance of being tacked onto one another, rather they are harmoniously integrated into the Passat’s overall design. The same applies to the new design of the bumpers. Firstly, they show greater volume and are very rugged in construction; secondly, they completely fit in with the styling of the Passat. In interplay with the higher ground clearance and the underbody protection panels in stainless steel look that are integrated front and rear, this projects an overall image that creates a link between the passenger car and SUV worlds.

Dimensions in detail

At a length of 4,771 mm, the Passat Alltrack is exactly as long as the Passat Estate. Despite the wheel housing flares, its width remained identical at 1,820 mm. A comparison of key data for off-road use is of interest: compared to the Passat Estate, ground clearance was increased by 135 to 165 mm. The front approach angle was increased from 13.5 to 16 degrees; in the rear, the departure angle was increased from 11.9 to 13.6 degrees. No less important in off-road use is the ramp breakaway angle which is important in crossing the crest of a hill; here, the value was improved from 9.5 to 12.8 degrees.

Off-road driving programme

Volkswagen SUV drivers are familiar with the ‘off-road driving programme’ on the Tiguan and Touareg. For the first time at Volkswagen, this clever, multifunctional system is being transferred to a passenger car in the Passat Alltrack (control range up to a maximum of 30 km/h). The driver activates this programme by pressing an Off-road button on the centre console. An LED symbol in the instrument cluster indicates when the system is ‘active’. Specifically, the settings for the safety and driver assistance systems and DSG control were modified as follows:

Safety systems: The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is now characterised by higher thresholds for control intervals; on loose road surfaces, such as gravel, a wedge of road substrate is formed in front of the tyres to decelerate the vehicle even more effectively. At the same time, the electronic differential locks (EDS) react quicker to prevent wheelspin at individual wheels. The engine’s torque control (ASR) is modified in parallel.

Driver assistance systems: Hill descent assist is automatically activated at a descent angle greater than 10 degrees; it brakes the Passat Alltrack. Meanwhile functions of the optional adaptive cruise control (ACC) and Front Assist are deactivated.

Dual clutch transmission: A flatter accelerator pedal characteristic makes it easier to meter engine power in off-road situations. At the same time, gear shift points are raised, automatically giving the driver a higher engine rpm and therefore more power to work with. If the DSG selection lever is switched to the manual shift gate, the transmission no longer upshifts automatically. The Stop/Start system and freewheeling are also deactivated.

4MOTION all-wheel drive

The two top engines (170 PS TDI and 210 PS TSI) are delivered with 4MOTION all-wheel drive as standard. For the Passat Alltrack with 140 PS TDI, the innovative all-wheel drive system is available as an option. Normally, the front axle is the primary drive axle in the Passat Alltrack 4MOTION; the rear axle only gets ten percent of the drive torque. This saves on fuel. The rear axle may be gradually engaged – step by step – depending on the specific driving and road situation. This is done via an electro-hydraulic all-wheel coupling. The advantage of the electronics: no engine speed differences are necessary between the front and rear axles to activate the all-wheel drive coupling, because pressure is built up via an electric pump.

Alltrack standard features

Passat Alltrack features: Along with the Off-road driving programme, modified chassis and body modifications, the Passat Alltrack is characterised by a whole series of specific feature details. These include the new ‘Valley’ type 17-inch alloy wheels (new ‘Canyon’ type 18-inch wheels are another option) and a tyre pressure monitoring indicator. Trimmed in ‘Matt chrome’ on the Passat Alltrack are the roof rails, window surrounds, door mirror housings and radiator grille. Standard features also include front and rear underbody protection in stainless steel look, fog lights, stainless steel door sill plates with ‘ALLTRACK’ signature, comfort seats (fabric covers) and lateral seat supports in Alcantara (colour: ‘Zabriskie black’), interior accents in ‘Titan Silver’ (with ALLTRACK signature on ashtray cover), pedals in aluminium look and automatic climate control. Other ‘ALLTRACK’ signatures are located at the front and rear of the vehicle. On the screen of the instrument cluster the new Passat also ‘greets’ its driver with the ‘ALLTRACK’ signature. Visible from exterior are the decorative chrome tailpipes.

Safety features: Of course, the Passat Alltrack has such features as six airbags, daytime running lights and the ESP electronic stabilisation programme. Additional standard features: fatigue detection and trailer stabilisation with countersteering support integrated in the ESP programme. Effective: automatic hazard light activation under severe braking. Ingenious: if the driver parks the Passat and unbuckles the seat belt before the engine is shut off, the electronic parking brake is automatically activated, which prevents unintentional rolling of the Volkswagen. Child-friendly: in parallel to the standard Isofix fittings for suitable child seats, the Passat Alltrack can also be ordered with two integrated child seats in the rear (for the outer seats).

Convenience features: In the interior, standard features include various storage compartments (such as in the centre console and roofliner console) and the analogue clock on the dashboard. Other standard convenience features: automatic climate control, electro-mechanical steering assist, electric windows front and rear, outside temperature indicator, electronic parking brake with auto-hold function and central locking (with wireless remote). There are also comfort seats in front with pockets on the backrests, manual lumbar supports and electric backrest adjustment (driver’s side). Multifunction leather-trimmed steering wheel, leather-trimmed shift lever grip and fabric floor mats are also part of the standard specification. The RCD 310 radio-CD system with dual digital tuners and MP3 replay function and 4 x 20 Watt audio output, the multimedia AUX-IN socket, automatic running light switching, automatically dipping rear-view mirror, Park Pilot for the front and rear, safety-optimised head restraints with additional longitudinal adjustment and a rain sensor complete the range of standard features.

Key technologies of the Passat Alltrack in detail

Fatigue detection: This system detects waning driver concentration and warns the driver with an acoustic signal lasting five seconds; a visual message also appears in the instrument cluster recommending that the driver take a break from driving. If the driver does not take a break within the next 15 minutes, the warning is repeated once. It works like this: at the beginning of each car trip, the system analyses the driver’s characteristic steering behaviour. Underway, the fatigue detection system then continually evaluates signals such as steering angle, use of the pedals and transverse acceleration. If monitored parameters indicate a deviation from the steering behaviour recorded at the beginning of the trip, then visual and acoustic warnings are produced. Independent of this monitoring, whenever the system is activated it recommends a driving break to the driver after four hours of continuous driving.

Park Assist, Generation II: In contrast to first generation systems, which only supported parking parallel to the carriageway, the latest parking assistant also assists in perpendicular parking – i.e. at right angles to the driving lane. The system is activated at speeds up to 40 km/h by pressing a button on the centre console. The driver indicates the side of the carriageway for parking by activating the indicator for that side. As soon as Park Assist detects a sufficiently large parking space – utilizing its ultrasonic sensors – assisted parking can begin: The driver engages reverse gear and then only needs to accelerate and brake. The Alltrack handles the steering. The driver is assisted by acoustic and visual cues on the multifunction display. While parking, Park Assist reduces vehicle speed to seven km/h. For the first time, this system can also actively brake the car if a collision is about to occur. Nonetheless, the driver remains responsible for braking, since the new braking function of Park Assist cannot guarantee that damage will be prevented in all cases.

Tyre pressure monitoring indicator: The tyre pressure monitoring system makes use of the wheel speed sensors of the ABS system for its operation. And this is how it works: when air pressure decreases in a tyre, this also reduces the rolling radius at that particular wheel; therefore, the wheel turns faster at the same vehicle speed, and the system detects this deviation. The Alltrack driver is warned via the tyre pressure monitoring indicator. Nonetheless, the system does not relieve the driver of the responsibility for independently verifying correct tyre pressure at regular intervals.

Swivelling towbar: An important optional detail for the Passat Alltrack is its swivelling towbar. It is electrically unlatched by pressing a button integrated in the side trim of the trunk. This causes the towbar to travel out from its rest position, and then it is easy to swing it into its operating position with a press of the foot. The towbar unit is designed for loads of up to 2.2 tonnes.

Variable cargo space of the Passat Alltrack

The cargo capacity of the Alltrack’s bootspace when loaded to the lower edge of the windows is 603 litres. When the space giant is fully utilised, including the 90 litre spare wheel well, cargo capacity is 1,731 litres – in this case, the Passat Alltrack is loaded up to the roofliner and to the backrests of the front seats. A cargo net barrier may be mounted behind the first seating row and/or behind the second seating row to prevent luggage from entering the passenger space when braking.

Moreover, the Passat Alltrack can accommodate a substantial payload: a maximum of 656 kg can be stowed (Passat Alltrack with 103 kW / 140 PS). Other key data on the Alltrack cargo space: 0.72 m tall cargo opening and 0.83 m interior height; 1.0 m width between the wheel wells. Largest width in the cargo space: 1.3 m. The loading surface of the Passat Alltrack when the rear bench seat is folded down is a minimum 1.94 m long.

Variable cargo floor: The optional movable cargo floor can be variably shifted forwards or backwards within the area of the loading surface. This makes it easy to stow heavy objects directly behind the backrest of the rear seats. The cargo floor may be loaded with up to 100 kg in weight; it is also easy to remove completely with a simple hand pull. In addition, Volkswagen will also be offering a cargo space divider pack for the Passat Alltrack. This space divider is a cargo floor that can be set upright to artificially divide the cargo space so that smaller luggage pieces do not slide through the bootspace. In front-wheel drive versions, the pack also includes storage bins in the spare wheel well for small items. In addition, a stainless steel load sill protection plate is part of the pack.

Remote unlatching of the rear bench backrest: No less practical is the remote unlatching of the rear bench backrest. Levers mounted in the trim on the right and left sides of the boot make it easy to unlatch the left and/or right section of the 1/3 to 2/3 split backrest so that it can fold forward in a controlled way.

Chevrolet has chosen the 2012 Geneva Motor Show to unveil the new Chevrolet Cruze Station Wagon. In addition to this long awaited model, the American firm will also present two concept cars and a range of technology solutions that will feature on future models. The main attraction remains the Station Wagon, the new variant of the Cruze range, which brings an aesthetical update to it: among the details are a new front bumper and lateral LED daytime lights. Despite its rather compact size (4.68m), the new model, available from summer 2012, retains the spaciousness typical of these cars.

At launch, in addition to the current range, the Chevrolet Cruze Station Wagon will be available in two new engines: 1.6 petrol and 2.0 diesel. Later, a new 1.4 petrol and 1.7 diesel will be added as well. All engines are Euro 5 compliant. The Cruze estate is equipped with keyless entry and starter, rear view camera and Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system. Externally, the front has been slightly renewed, especially in the lower part of the fascia.

The MyLink connectivity device is one of the new features offered by Chevrolet in Geneva. This piece of equipment allows the integration of smartphones, transforming the car into a docking station. It has a 7″ touch screen, USB, Aux-in and Bluetooth. It will be available on Chevrolet Cruze and Chevrolet Aveo. The General Motors manufacturer will also display two new concept cars: Code 130R and Tru 140S. These are two four-seat coupes: the first is a square shaped car with turbo engine and rear-wheel drive; the second has front-wheel drive and sporty lines.

Hyundai is once again relying on its signature fluidic sculpture style to design the body of the new i30 Wagon, which will be on display at the next 2012 Geneva Motor Show (8th – 18th March). The Korean estate is characterised by a pronouced swage line that runs along the sides of the body, hexagon-shape grille and signature headlights, while the rear lights have the same design of the five door hatchback’s.

Hyundai i30 Wagon will be replacing the current i30 CW and its wheelbase measures 4,480 mm, 185mm more than its predecessor. The trunk space expands from 528 l (150 l more than the five-door hatchback) to 1,672 l, which brings the new i30 at the top of its class.

The i30 Wagon was designed at Hyundai’s European R&D Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, and will be available from October 2012. It will offer a choice of three petrol engines - 1.4 l (100 hp) and 1.6 l (120 hp and 135 hp) - and three diesel engines - 1.4 l (90 hp) and 1.6 l (110 hp and 128 hp).

BMW is about to complete the testing of its new 3-Series Touring, which could be unveiled as soon as next March at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. Judging by these spy shots, the new estate model from the Bavarian manufacturer will be pretty similar to its predecessor, with a rear section (which is still mildly disguised in the pictured mule) that bears some resemblance with 5-series Touring, especially as far as hatch and C-pillar are concerned.

The new BMW 3-Series Touring will come with an engine range inclusive of a 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 184 hp (320i) and a 2.0-litre diesel engine delivering 116 hp (316d) and 143 hp (318d), which will become available in the second quarter of the current year. These units will join the current line-up made of petrol and diesel 4-cylinder engines available in power steps of 163, 184 and 245 hp and the turbocharged 6-cylinder gasoline unit delivering 306 hp.

View the full BMW 3 series Touring spy shots photo gallery