Latest news with #DriveTime
Daily Record
a day ago
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We get behind the wheel of the Ford Mustang and discover the end has arrived for the Honda Civic Type R
Available in both coupe and convertible body styles, the seventh generation Mustang is still selling well. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John gets behind the wheel of the legend that is the Ford Mustang and discovers how the end has arrived for the famous Honda Civic Type R. The latest version of the legendary Ford Mustang muscle car comes with a redesigned digital interior and a revamped V8 engine to supply even more firepower. Available in both coupe and convertible body styles, the seventh generation Mustang is still selling well. Since the original Mustang first arrived six decades ago more than 10 million have been sold worldwide. With edgier styling, the latest model sits on the same platform as its predecessor but comes with upgraded hardware, software and tuning - plus a new Gen IV 5.0-litre V8 engine said to provide even greater response and performance. Not to be confused with its sibling, the all-electric Mustang Mach-E, this model looks like a real muscle car and has the power to match with a mighty 5.0-litre V8 engine growling under the huge bonnet. With prices ranging from £58,470 to £63,970, the 2025 Mustang is sold in Fastback or Convertible form and customers can select from either a six-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic unit. I have been sampling the GT Fastback with the automatic gearbox and enjoyed its huge performance. Now with an even more aggressive look the GT Fastback has a sculpted bonnet, black grille housing the galloping horse emblem, signature triple-LED headlamps and tail lights, 19-inch carbonised grey alloys with red brake calipers and was finished in Atlas Blue paint as an £800 extra. The cabin is deceptively spacious up front with ample room for a couple of tall adults and it has black leather sports seats which are powered, heated and ventilated. The flat-bottomed steering wheel can also be heated. Twin screens that merge behind a single glass pane dominate with a 12.4-inch digital driver display along with a 13.2-inch infotainment screen that offers access to all the on-board technology. As you would expect, the Mustang features Ford's latest and most intuitive SYNC 4 software with over-the-air updates. You also get an excellent 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, sat nav, a rearview camera, along with climate control settings. The GT Fastback has a wonderful soundtrack to match its stunning performance. The 5.0-litre V8 engine delivers 446PS and 540Nm of torque. That's enough to rocket from 0 to 62mph in just 4.9 seconds and has a top speed that's limited to 155mph. Don't expect economy as the best you will achieve is 28mpg on a long run if you take it easy and an average of 23mpg. If you really push things, consumption will plunge to as little as 13mpg. The 10-speed automatic box is smooth and perfect for the job but you can also operate it manually if you wish. The engine roars into life as soon as you press the start button and the V8 soundtrack is superb through the quad tailpipes. Acceleration is rapid and the GT has loads of grip and is at home on both motorways and country roads. Multiple drive modes enable you to alter the performance and enjoy the soundtrack. You can even tone the noise level down if you don't want to upset the neighbours late at night or early morning. Room up front is great but the rear seats are only suitable for youngsters. The boot is ample and provides 381 litres of space - enough for the shop or a couple of sets of golf clubs. A wireless charging pad is a bonus and there is also lots of storage space in the cabin. The Mustang makes driving fun and this Ford icon may not be subtle but it makes you feel great when you get behind the wheel. It may not be too long before we are not able to drive cars like this, so let's enjoy it while we still can. FAST FACTS: Price: £60,470. Mechanical: 5-litre, V8, 446ps, petrol hybrid engine driving two wheels via automatic gearbox. Max speed: 155mph. 0-62mph: 4.9 seconds. Combined mpg: 23.3. Insurance group: 41. CO2 emissions: 277g/km. Bik rating: 37 per cent. Warranty: Three years/60,000 miles. Overall rating (out of 5): 4.5. In further motoring news, Honda is saying goodbye to its iconic Civic Type R with a new Ultimate Edition that signals the end of sales for the model in Europe - with only 40 units available across the region, alongside the remaining standard models. Designed to embody 28-years of hot hatch performance, this special model comes in trademark Championship White with bespoke red decals across both the bonnet and down the side of the vehicle that match its iconic badge. There is also a painted black roof, plus carbon details throughout, including a wing spoiler and doorstep garnish. Inside, the carbon theme continues with a centre console panel, while additional lighting calls out select interior features, including the door lining, cup holder, centre console, footwell and under seat illumination. On opening the front doors, there is also a Type R logo projector that enhances the unique appeal. As a special token, owners will receive a unique matching gift box containing a numbered emblem - from one to 40 - and a carbon key ring, alongside custom-made floor mats, and a car cover. Hannah Swift, head of European strategy and product at Honda Motor Europe, said: "As we say farewell to a true icon of the Honda automobile line-up in Europe, we thought it was fitting to give the Civic Type R the ultimate send-off with this special edition model offering our customers a unique opportunity to celebrate its legacy. "The industry is changing, and our model range is having to evolve with it in accordance with European legislation. "However, Type R has always been Honda's ultimate expression of our passion for driving excitement, and we look forward to celebrating its heritage in the weeks and months ahead." The Civic Type R first came to prominence in Japan with the sixth generation of the Civic hatchback model in 1997. Since then, it has spanned a further five generations and many special editions besides, building a dedicated fan base around the world with its long tradition of high-performance inspired by the spirit of racing. Further demonstrating its dynamic credentials across almost three decades, the Civic Type R has set front wheel drive production benchmarks at several circuits around the world - most notably the Nurburgring Nordschleife in Germany on several occasions. This on-track success also extended to the World Touring Car Championship and World Touring Car Cup, in addition to other regional series, where the Civic Type R has been a popular choice and delivered both drivers' and team titles. And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Watch as Jordan North takes cheeky swipe at BBC Radio1 after moving to rival station
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) JORDAN North took a rather cheeky swipe at BBC Radio1 after moving to a rival station. At the Capital Summertime Ball on Saturday, June 15, Jordan spoke to The Sun about how he's been settling into his new gig over the last 12 months. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 4 Jordan North is at the helm of Capital's breakfast show Credit: Getty 4 He hosts the breakfast show with Sian Welby and Chris Stark Credit: Getty 4 The trio hosted today's Summertime Ball at Wembley Credit: Shutterstock Editorial Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Jordan revealed he's has the "best year" of his life while taking a veiled swipe at BBC Radio One. When asked about how it's been at Capital since making the move, he said: "Oh, honestly, they have been the best people to work for. "It was definitely the right decision," he said, trailing off. "It's been just over 12 months and it has been the best year of my life." Continuing to gush over the job change, he said: "It's been so good, we've interviewed absolute megastars. "And what's lovely now is friends and family and people that have come over to Capital have said, 'oh, you really suit the station. It's like you've been there for years'. "And that is the biggest compliment," he said. He added: "This Breakfast show has got a massive buzz about it at the moment, something which we never thought we'd be able to do after just 12 months. "It feels like everybody's tuning in and listening. "And everyone's copying us as well, which is always a good sign," he added, seemingly taking another jibe at his former workplace. Jessie J reveals she's taking break from music to 'beat breast cancer' after shock diagnosis Last year, after a decade at the BBC, it was announced he was leaving the Drive Time show with Vick Hope after four years. Speaking to The Sun last year amid his big move, Jordan opened up about getting the huge opportunity at Capital and being unable to turn it down. 'I wasn't looking to leave but then this opportunity came up and you don't turn Capital down,' Jordan admitted. 'I know that sounds corny but it's a massive breakfast show. 'I told three people, because I had to keep it quiet, and they all said, 'Go for it'.' At the time, Jordan also spoke about his pals at the BBC with fond words. 'I have loads of good friends there [at the BBC]. 'When I rang Vick she was great. 'They all texted me before the first show. "Greg James said good luck. 'They pit us as rivals but really we're all mates,' he affirmed at the time.
The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Watch as Jordan North takes cheeky swipe at BBC Radio1 after moving to rival station
JORDAN North took a rather cheeky swipe at BBC Radio1 after moving to a rival station. At the Capital Summertime Ball on Saturday, June 15, Jordan spoke to The Sun about how he's been settling into his new gig over the last 12 months. 4 Jordan North is at the helm of Capital's breakfast show Credit: Getty 4 He hosts the breakfast show with Sian Welby and Chris Stark Credit: Getty 4 The trio hosted today's Summertime Ball at Wembley Credit: Shutterstock Editorial Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Jordan revealed he's has the "best year" of his life while taking a veiled swipe at BBC Radio One. When asked about how it's been at Capital since making the move, he said: "Oh, honestly, they have been the best people to work for. "It was definitely the right decision," he said, trailing off. "It's been just over 12 months and it has been the best year of my life." Read More about Jordan North Continuing to gush over the job change, he said: "It's been so good, we've interviewed absolute megastars. "And what's lovely now is friends and family and people that have come over to Capital have said, 'oh, you really suit the station. It's like you've been there for years'. "And that is the biggest compliment," he said. He added: "This Breakfast show has got a massive buzz about it at the moment, something which we never thought we'd be able to do after just 12 months. Most read in Showbiz "It feels like everybody's tuning in and listening. "And everyone's copying us as well, which is always a good sign," he added, seemingly taking another jibe at his former workplace. Jessie J reveals she's taking break from music to 'beat breast cancer' after shock diagnosis Last year, after a decade at the BBC , it was announced he was leaving the Drive Time show with Vick Hope after four years. Speaking to The Sun last year amid his big move, Jordan opened up about getting the huge opportunity at Capital and being unable to turn it down. 'I wasn't looking to leave but then this opportunity came up and you don't turn Capital down,' Jordan admitted. 'I know that sounds corny but it's a massive breakfast show. 'I told three people, because I had to keep it quiet, and they all said, 'Go for it'.' At the time, Jordan also spoke about his pals at the BBC with fond words. 'I have loads of good friends there [at the BBC]. 'When I rang Vick she was great. 'They all texted me before the first show. " 'They pit us as rivals but really we're all mates,' he affirmed at the time. 4 Jordan joined Capital last year after moving from the BBC Credit: Getty
Daily Record
13-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We check out the Mazda CX-5 SUV and Kia's new Sportage model
A key player in Mazda's success story, the CX-5 SUV has been a global sales hit with production of over 4.5million units to date. In this instalment of Drive Time John Murdoch takes a look at two very successful SUVs. Mazda's ever-popular and stylish CX-5 has just notched over 100,000 sales in the UK and over 4.5 million globally since its launch back in 2012. Meanwhile Kia is getting ready for the arrival of its new Sportage this autumn. A key player in Mazda's success story, the CX-5 SUV has been a global sales hit with production of over 4.5million units to date. It's been just as popular here and this spring the 100,000th Mazda CX-5 was sold in the UK - helping to ensure that the ever-popular SUV remains Mazda's best-selling car in this country. Launched back in 2012, the original CX-5 was the first production car to feature both Mazda's Kodo Soul of Motion design philosophy and Skyactiv engine technology. It followed the Minagi concept car, which hinted at the SUV's award-winning styling, which was seen in production form for the first time at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show where the CX-5 was revealed. An instant sales success, which was praised by media and customers alike for its combination of driver appeal, practicality and style, the Mazda CX-5 is a landmark car in Mazda's history. After a substantial update in 2015, the second-generation CX-5 was launched in 2017, while another update was implemented in 2022. Today, the current Mazda CX-5 features 24v Mazda M Hybrid mild-hybrid technology across all petrol models and cylinder deactivation on 165ps petrol automatic models, while the 184ps Skyactiv-D diesel remains in the range. Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director, Mazda Motors UK, said: 'The Mazda CX-5 is an incredibly important car in Mazda's history. From the launch of the original first-generation car in 2012 it has been a hugely popular choice for UK SUV buyers, who have loved its style, quality and driver engagement. 'It's a car that has seen amazing customer loyalty and satisfaction, so it's great that sales have passed 100,000 in the UK. It's incredible to look back and consider just how much the UK market has changed since the CX-5's launch in 2012. 'The huge increase in the popularity of SUVs means that today the CX-5 sits alongside the 2025 Mazda CX-60, all-new Mazda CX-80 and the smaller Mazda CX-30 in our line-up, but it was the success of the award-winning CX-5 that established Mazda as a maker of genuinely sporty SUVs, which deliver class leading quality and high levels of standard equipment.' He added: 'Now part of an SUV line-up that offers customers a wide choice depending on their motoring needs. "The current Mazda CX-5 is an example of how Mazda's successive updates and refinements to every aspect of this ever-popular SUV have kept it competitive and I look forward to what the future holds for this fantastic SUV.' Meanwhile, a new Kia Sportage will arrive this autumn and full UK specifications and pricing will be revealed nearer the launch date. Like the current European model it will be produced at the company's Zilina plant in Slovakia and it is expected to cost not much more than the current range. With more than seven million units sold globally to-date, the new model features extensive enhancements in design, innovation, technology and convenience, and Kia says it sets new standards in the competitive compact SUV segment. As part of Kia's continued push towards responsible mobility, the new Sportage offers both petrol and hybrid powertrains from launch, giving customers the power to choose the car that best suits their needs. A shortened wheelbase has been developed to meet the preferences of European SUV customers without compromising on interior space. Kia's 'Opposites United' design philosophy gives the Sportage a striking new look. Smooth, soft surfaces are combined with rugged forms and a powerful stance, and with new front and rear bumpers create a strong silhouette, with LED Star Map lighting and Kia's distinctive tiger nose grille. A new wheel design is available as 17-inch, 18-inch, and 19-inch, with exclusive 18-inch and 19-inch versions for 'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' models. The interior offers ample room for everyone on board and the steering wheel features a new two-spoke design, while the updated crash pad and hidden air vents create a sleek, minimalist finish. New seat covers add further comfort, with 'GT-Line' and 'GT-Line S' variants offering a stylish black and white interior in artificial leather and suede. Together with Dinamica, Kia has integrated a responsible fabric in the interior of the Sportage. Dinamica's premium non-woven microfibre suede is featured in the door and seat insert in the 'GT-Line' as standard and in the door inserts and seat boosters as an option. The water-based production process and high percentages of recycled material underline Kia's commitment to sustainable products throughout its vehicles. Inside the new Sportage continues to offer more than one metre of rear legroom for passengers in the second row. Boot capacity goes to 587 litres, and up to 1,776 litres with the second-row seats folded, while the dual-level cargo floor available on the HEV provides flexible cargo carrying capabilities. The newcomer has dual 12.3-inch curved panoramic displays and a new 10-inch head-up display (HUD with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kia Connect and OTA updates can access specific features and services, check the vehicle lock status, plan routes and more. Through Kia In-Car Payment, drivers can pay for on-street parking directly from their car, while the available Wi-Fi Hotspot connects up to five devices to 4G LTE-based internet. The Sportage also features a range of technologies to assist drivers with a multi-mode audio/climate touchpad located beneath the multimedia screen. Switching between functions has been made more natural and intuitive, for changing the preferred temperature setting or adjusting the volume. In addition, 360-degree Surround View Monitor with 3D view provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings. Finally, a wireless charging pad is located inside the upper tray. The new Sportage offers a choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains from launch, giving customers a choice of hybrid powertrains that best suits their needs. Sportage offers more dynamic driving thanks to a powerful turbo hybrid powertrain, a new generation transmission, the vehicle's aerodynamic design and a low centre of gravity. As with all vehicles across the Kia product portfolio, the Sportage features a full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Auto Emergency Braking with pedestrian, cyclist, and car detection are designed to use sensors and a camera to scan the road ahead for potential hazards and to automatically apply the brakes when a potential collision is detected. Highway Driving Assist 2 employs a forward-facing camera, radar sensors and navigation data to assist with maintaining a predetermined speed and distance from the vehicle detected ahead of you in certain circumstances. The system can also assist with steering wheel control when changing lanes (activated by the turn signal) and evasive steering assistance. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
Daily Record
06-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We test out the Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck and preview Skoda's two new Enyaq models
With a large choice of body styles and trim levels, the pick-up truck is good value for money, with prices starting from £32,916. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John tests out the popular Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck and previews two new Enyaq models on the way from Skoda. The award-winning Isuzu D-Max pick-up is tough enough to get the job done in fields and construction sites and is now stylish enough to shine in the adventure and leisure market. With a large choice of body styles and trim levels it is also good value for money, with prices starting from £32,916. The 2025 version comes with fresh design enhancements, a revamped infotainment system as well as improved off-road performance and increased comfort and safety features. The Japanese company only makes commercial vehicles and its D-Max pick-up truck is the only model it sells in the UK. It has a strong following and has built its solid reputation on being a tough and reliable workhorse but in the last couple of years Isuzu has transformed the D-Max to make it a player in the lifestyle and adventure market. The V-Cross Double Cab model I have been sampling is the flagship of the range and with the recent updates it is now even more appealing to the private market. As well as the revised exterior styling, the V-Cross has leather upholstery, heated front seats, a nine-inch multifunction colour touchscreen, electrically adjustable driver's seat, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a reversing camera and front and rear parking sensors. Its 4x4 powertrain and rear differential lock means it is as good off-road as it is on it and the D-Max is a match for much more expensive competition. Many other technical and comfort features that you would expect to find in a family SUV are also standard. Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) are now fitted on all models, including autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning and prevention and rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitor and emergency lane keeping are fitted on all double cab versions. As a result, the pick-up even boasts a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Thanks to other modifications the wheelbase is longer and this means that the cabin is even more spacious than before with larger rear doors making access easier. Only one engine is available throughout the range, a tried and tested 1.9-litre turbodiesel unit which delivers 162bhp and 360Nm of torque. It completes the 0-62mph sprint in 13 seconds and can go onto a maximum of 112mph. It is noisy on start-up but it soon settles down and is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. You can opt for a manual version if you wish. Like most pick-ups it is not light on fuel with an average 30.7mpg claimed for this double cab auto and emissions run at 241g/km. It may be the lifestyle model of the strong range but the V-Cross still offers the usual workhorse features, with a one-tonne payload and up to 3.5 tonnes towing capacity. Sensors warn of towing sway and Hill Descent Control is standard on all variants. The D-Max has always been a great performer off-road and the addition of a rear diff-lock has made it even better. The speed -sensitive steering makes the D-Max surprisingly easy to manoeuvre in town and out of town it stiffens up nicely to give you more feel and control. It may not be the flashiest pick-up available but the Isuzu offers good value for money all through the large range of models and it is certainly worth a look. It also boasts an excellent five-year warranty. FAST FACTS: Price: £47,916. Mechanical: 1.9litre, 4 cyl, 162bhp diesel engine driving 4 wheels via automatic gearbox. Max speed: 112mph. 0-62mph: 13.0 seconds. Combined mpg: 31.4. Insurance group: 40. CO2 emissions: 235g/km. Bik rating: 37 per cent. Warranty: Five years/125,000 miles. Overall rating (out of 5): 4.2. Meanwhile, Czech manufacturer Skoda is expanding its new Enyaq range with the addition of a SportLine model that will sit alongside the recently introduced 85x 4WD model. Available in SUV and Coupe body styles, the new SportLine 85 shares its looks and sharp driving dynamics with the all-wheel-drive 85x. But, with a single-motor drivetrain, it delivers even greater efficiency and longer driving ranges. Available to order from this week, with prices starting at £47,260 and the Coupe from £49,160, both new Enyaq SportLine 85 models feature 82 kWh battery packs and are powered by a rear-mounted motor that generates 286ps. This allows the new models to sprint from 0–62 mph in 6.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 111 mph. In terms of efficiency, the SportLine 85 SUV returns up to 354 miles while the more aero-efficient Coupe offers up to 356 miles - both figures higher than those delivered by the all-wheel-drive 85x version. Rapid DC charging can be carried out at speeds of up to 135kW, while AC charging peaks at 11kW. When conditions allow, a 10–80 per cent charge on a suitable rapid DC charger can be achieved in around 28 minutes. Like the SportLine 85x, the single-motor SportLine 85 comes with 20-inch black alloy wheels, sports bumpers, and gloss black styling details as standard. Inside, SportLine drivers benefit from a head-up display, front sports seats, sports steering wheel, and a CANTON sound system. Both variants are equipped with progressive dynamic steering and sports suspension that lowers the ride height by 15mm at the front and 10mm at the rear. Both models also feature a variable boot floor and Area View camera as standard. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here. Article continues below
