SMMT News

New car variety on show to mark September plate-change

14 August 2012 #SMMT News

Three new cars available in the UK from September are the latest exhibits to be showcased in SMMT’s exhibition space. Ford’s mini MPV, the B-MAX is joined by Volvo’s premium five-door hatchback, the V40 and Maserati’s latest coupe, the GranTurismo Sport.

The exhibit showcases new ’62-plate’ vehicles that will arrive in dealerships during the next few weeks as the automotive sector prepares for the second biggest month for dealers, accounting for almost a fifth of the year’s trade.

SMMT expects around 330,000 new cars to be registered during September, with motorists spending in the region of £4.95 billion on the latest new vehicles. The cars on show represent just a few of more than 300 fuel-efficient, technology-packed models currently on the market, or available in September, representing one of the biggest ever choices for UK motorists.

Ford B-MAX

Ford’s new mini MPV features innovative design and use of technology, including twin sliding rear doors to give an extra-wide, 1.5m side opening. There are no central structural pillars to hinder access as these have been built into the doors.

The B-MAX is available with a variety of engines, including Ford’s three cylinder 1.0-litre EcoBoost, developed by UK powertrain engineers at Dunton and Dagenham. The B-MAX can also be specified with engines manufactured at the Ford Dagenham Diesel Centre, which returned to running on 100% renewable energy last year.

Maserati GranTurismo Sport

Maserati’s new coupe is positioned between the 4.2-litre GranTurismo and the range-topping MC Stradale. The GranTurismo Sport features the 4.7-litre V8 of the latter, delivering 454bhp to the rear wheels via either a fully automatic ZF or a six-speed sequential gearbox.

The Maserati Stability Program works with traction control and brake assistance systems to keep the car safe on the road, in the context of performance figures that boast a 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 186mph.

Volvo V40

Volvo’s latest model represents the company’s five-door hatchback entry into the small family car ‘C segment’. From the choice of powertrains available, the D2 diesel engine cuts emissions to just 94g/km CO2 with a combined fuel consumption figure of 78.5mpg.

The V40 also features newly developed Pedestrian Airbag Technology as standard. A world first; the system registers contact between car and pedestrian, releasing the rear end of the bonnet and simultaneously deploying an external airbag to help reduce the severity of pedestrian injuries.

Click through the slideshow below to see all the photos from SMMT’s exhibition space.

Filter News

Update Newsletter