15 Million Boxer engines, 14 Million AWD cars, & going stronger than ever, it has to be SUBARU.

• Major milestone for Subaru’s iconic horizontally-opposed ‘Boxer’ engine
• 49 years since the introduction of the first Boxer engine in the Subaru 1000
• 14 million Symmetrical All Wheel Drive vehicles manufactured

Production of Subaru’s horizontally-opposed ‘Boxer’ engine has reached 15 million units since the engine was first developed 49 years ago. The Boxer engine has become synonymous with Subaru vehicles all over the world, and remains one the hallmarks of a Brand which continues to tread its own path when it comes to engineering.

The first Subaru model equipped with a Boxer engine was the Subaru 1000, introduced in 1966 with a horizontally-opposed, water-cooled, four-cylinder aluminium engine. Since then, the engine – famed for its ‘punch, counterpunch’ layout – has powered almost every single Subaru production car sold around the globe.

The latest Boxer engine can be found in the all-new Subaru Outback, which goes on sale in the UK from 1 April 2015 with a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine and a 2.0-litre turbo Boxer diesel.

Subaru’s Boxer engines are renowned for their smooth power delivery and the benefits that are derived from its compact dimensions. Pistons are laid out symmetrically to cancel out the inertia force of each other, resulting in less vibration, greater rotational balance and a smoother, free-revving power delivery than a traditional four-cylinder in-line engine.

The horizontally-opposed design allows the engine to be fitted lower in the engine bay, helping to lower the vehicle’s centre of gravity to improve driving stability and handling performance.

14 million All-Wheel Drive vehicles

Subaru has achieved another significant milestone with the production of its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, which has now been fitted to over 14 million cars since its introduction in 1972.

First fitted to the Subaru Leone Estate Van, Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system remains central to the appeal and capabilities of much of its model range, contributing to class-leading stability, predictable handling and driving pleasure.

Subaru’s venerable & versatile Forester SUV has again been named ‘Best Family 4x4 of the Year’

Subaru’s venerable and versatile Forester SUV has again been named ‘Best Family 4x4 of the Year’ by Motors North in its Highland Car of the Year Awards.

The Forester has previously fared well in these awards, claiming the same accolade in 2014. In 2013, off-roading specialist publication 4x4 Magazine also crowned the Forester as its ‘Mid-size SUV of the Year’, beating a number of key rivals to the prize.

The Forester went on sale in the UK in May 2013 and builds on the model’s reputation as a rugged, user friendly and go anywhere SUV. Compared to its predecessor, the new Forester offers more efficient performance, even better safety features and a more spacious and better appointed cabin.

Subaru’s most popular all-wheel drive model is also backed by a long and enviable reputation for reliability as well as a comprehensive five-year, 100,000-mile warranty and rock-solid safety credentials.

Of the Subaru, Motors North said: “A firm Highland favourite and previous winner in the category, the Forester is growing more refined and desirable as time passes and offers excellent value for money in a spacious, comfortable package.”

Updates for 2015

For 2015 the Forester also gets a mild makeover with further improvements to the appointments in the cabin and a new range of factory-fit sat nav and infotainment systems. The Forester will also be available for the first time with Subaru’s advanced CVT Lineartronic transmission coupled with the Boxer diesel engine.

Unusual in the segment but keeping true to its heritage, Subaru offers a petrol turbo Forester in the form of the XT Turbo and which has proved popular with Subaru buyers – equipped as it is with a 240ps 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection engine delivering super smooth pulling power both on and off-road. 

The Forester range is also available with Subaru’s hallmark 2.0-litre petrol and diesel Boxer engines, and all versions of the car feature Subaru’s advanced All-Wheel Drive system as standard.

JEEP® introduces the New 'Trail-Rated' Cherokee Trailhawk to the UK.

Jeep is enhancing the popular Cherokee range with the introduction to the UK of the first ‘Trail Rated’ version, the Trailhawk.

The most capable Jeep Cherokee model available, and the most accomplished mid-size SUV in the segment, the 2015 Cherokee Trailhawk comes with a 3.2-litre V6 petrol engine and a nine-speed automatic gearbox. Fully off-road capable, the Trailhawk is fitted with a low-range transmission including Jeep’s Selec-Terrain with Rock mode.

The 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk with the standard off-road package is Trail Rated. Its ‘Trail Rated’ badge indicates that the vehicle is designed to perform in a variety of challenging off-road conditions identified by five key consumer-oriented performance categories: traction, ground clearance, manoeuvrability, articulation and water fording.

Venturing off the beaten track is no problem for the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk. Its Active Drive Lock 4x4 system features a rear lock which keeps both wheels spinning at the same speed for enhanced traction on any surface, and is particularly useful when rock crawling. The car also features Selec-Speed control, which allows it to drive up or down demanding hills at controlled, steady speeds in complete confidence and safety.

Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk exemplifies all this 4x4 capability with a distinctive, no-nonsense look, backed up by Jeep Trail Rated equipment. It includes, as standard equipment, aggressive approach and departure angles with unique front and rear fascias, a one-inch factory lift, fuel tank, front suspension and transmission skid plates and signature red tow hooks. The car has an approach angle of 29.8 degrees, a departure angle of 32.1 degrees and break-over angle of 22.9 degrees. Running ground clearance is 22.1cm (8.7 in).

Other excellent features to make owning the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk a pleasure include deep tinted sunscreen glass, a unique black bonnet sticker (from March), coloured grille surrounds and roof rails, off-road wheel flares and 17-inch aluminium wheels.

Inside the standard equipment continues with Nappa Leather trim, red interior stitching accents, all-season floor mats, a cargo net, Uconnect™ media centre with 8.4-inch touch screen display and USB remote port.

Powered by a 3239cc, 24-valve V6 petrol engine delivering 268bhp and 315Nm of torque at 4300rpm, the 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk costs £34,245 (OTR) – available on Jeep’s special order programme. A host of options includes special paints, Uconnect™-Navigation, wireless charging pad for mobile phone, Park Assist and full sunroof (powered front, fixed rear).

“It’s the ultimate Jeep Cherokee in terms of off-road capability,” says Damien Dally, head of brand, Jeep UK. 

“And coupled with that powerful V6 engine, nine-speed auto box, a huge list of standard equipment and style touches, and all the versatility of a full-size family car, the 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk offers outstanding value for money – and a great drive too.”

Ssangyong enters the new year with some tempting new retail offers, I still wouldnt have one though.

• New Limited edition Korando LE
• Free automatic upgrade on Korando ELX4 saving £1,500
• PCP scheme with guaranteed values plus free servicing on Korando
• Free servicing offer on Rexton W

A new limited edition Korando model is launched this month bringing a range of special and distinctive features to this already comprehensively equipped and great value SUV.Korando LE

Finished in Grand White, this exclusive limited edition includes 18” diamond cut alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, a rear spoiler and rear parking sensors, and inside, heated front seats, climate control and an automatic dipping rear view mirror.  It comes with a retail price of just £16,495.

Korando ELX4 - free automatic offer

The four-wheel drive Korando ELX4 crossover is also offered with a free 6-speed automatic transmission upgrade.  Priced from £19,995 this represents a saving of £1,500.

Korando PCP - now with free servicing

SsangYong places great emphasis on the availability of PCPs (Personal Contract Purchase) and guarantees strong residual values for customers after three years. 

In addition to the scheme detailed below, 3 years free servicing is also now being offered on any Korando model purchased before 31^st March.

The programme, which is being administered by SsangYong’s finance provider GMAC, offers purchasers realistic deposits and highly competitive monthly payments.  PCPs are also available on the Rexton W 4x4 and seven-seat Turismo MPV.

Announcing the Korando offer, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK, Paul Williams said: “We already have a considerable price advantage over the competition with every car in our range, and now with PCPs, guaranteed final values and free servicing, we can offer customers supreme value.”

Example PCP rates for Korando, based on 36 months/10,000 miles per year

	Korando SE	Korando SE4	Korando ELX4	Korando ELX4 Auto
OTR	14,995.00	16,495.00	19,995.00	21,495.00
DEPOSIT	3,574.67	4,133.14	4,972.55	5,541.09
DEPOSIT %	24%	25%	25%	26%
PAYMENT	£189	£209	£269	£279
GFRV	6,625.00	7,000.00	7,925.00	8,675.00
GFRV%	44%	42%	40%	40%
APR	6.90%	6.90%	6.90%	6.90%

The guaranteed final values (GFV) are underwritten by SsangYong Motor UK with GMAC, and the PCP programme is available through participating dealers.  

Rexton W - free servicing offer

Every Rexton W including the new CSX Commercial sold up until the end of March will also come with a 3-year free servicing offer for even great value and customer reassurance.  Prices start from just £18,495 ex VAT for the Rexton CSX Commercial, and £21,995 for the five seat Rexton SX.

5 year limitless mileage warranty

All models in the SsangYong range are covered by a best-in-class 5 year limitless mileage warranty.  Designed to be totally transparent and give customers complete peace of mind, ‘limitless’ means just that: not a maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print.  

All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system.  Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.

Ssangyong Launches the Rexton W CSX, A commercial version of its off roader.

• Priced from just £18,495 ex VAT
• Extensively refreshed design
• 4-wheel drive with low range
• 3 tonne towing capability
• Best in class 5 year warranty without mileage restriction
• Powered by SsangYong’s proven 2.0 litre turbo charged 155PS e-XDi diesel engine
• Benefit in Kind (BIK) of £3,090 - 

SsangYong is gaining a solid reputation for producing strong, comprehensively equipped and extremely well priced vehicles, and its new Rexton W CSX brings a robust and purposeful contender to the light commercial vehicle sector.

Noted for being a highly competent off-roader, Rexton W is the third iteration of the Rexton, a car that has won customers and admiration around the world.  Building on this pedigree, the new car uses a body on frame construction for maximum strength, double wishbone and coil spring suspension to the front, and a five link rigid axle with coil springs at the rear.

Commented Paul Williams, CEO of SsangYong Motor UK:  “With prices starting from only £18,495 (ex VAT), the new Rexton W CSX has an almost unrivalled position in the LCV sector.

“Built on a ladder chassis, Rexton W is a serious off-roader yet with all the equipment and creature comforts you would expect to find in a SsangYong and at such an amazing price point.  Not only do you get a lot of vehicle for the money but also the reassurance of an industry-leading 5 year limitless mileage warranty for complete peace of mind.”

Powertrain

The Rexton W CSX is powered by SsangYong’s own 2.0 litre turbo charged e-XDi200 diesel engine offering a level of performance and NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) control that has already been tested, proven and praised in the marketplace.

This Euro 5 engine delivers maximum power of 155PS/4,000rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm/1,500-3,000rpm, and is designed to provide low end torque whatever the conditions.  The CSX has a 6-speed manual transmission, and when going off road, the driver can select low range which also splits the torque equally between front and rear axles to provide all round traction, and ensure optimum grip across the most challenging terrain.

With its 3 tonne towing capability, the new Rexton W CSX will also make light work of hauling a work trailer, full-size caravan, double horsebox or boat trailer.

Interior design

At the work end there’s a completely flat load area accessed via a high lifting tailgate and two side doors, and packing a useful 2.2cu metre load volume.  There’s a load deck length of 1,700cm, and 107cm between the wheel arches.  It also carries a very practical 615kg, and willingly pulls a 3 tonne trailer.

Meanwhile, the cabin has been given a refreshed new look.  Aluminium-effect and chrome finishes along with soft-touch materials result in a modern and comfortable environment, yet one that will prove extremely practical in everyday use.

The comprehensive level of standard equipment also includes cruise control, air conditioning, electrically operated & heated door mirrors, leather covered steering wheel and gear knob, and CD & RDS radio with iPod and Bluetooth connectivity.

Safety

The Rexton W CSX features a comprehensive package of active safety features including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Active Rollover Protection (ARP), ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Hill Descent Control (HDC), and there are dual front and side air bags. 

Designed to appeal as both a work day and weekend leisure vehicle, the new Rexton W blends the multi-role flexibility of a great off-road workhorse with a high level of comfort and standard equipment.

Rexton W CSX prices

The Rexton W CSX is priced from £18,495 ex VAT.

5 year limitless mileage warranty

As with all models in the SsangYong range, the new Rexton W CSX is covered by a best in class 5 year limitless mileage warranty.

Designed to be totally transparent and give customers complete peace of mind, ‘limitless’ means just that: not a maximum mileage condition that some brands impose in their small print.

All the major mechanical components are covered including wheel bearings, suspension joints and bushes, steering joints, shock absorbers and even the audio system.  Wearable components such as clutch discs and brake friction materials which could have their life reduced by poor driving are covered for one year or 12,000 miles, and the battery and paintwork for three years.