Hard Shoulder

A round-up of motors stories in brief

A round-up of motors stories in brief

LISTEN UP!On our motors podcast this week, we discuss the motor industry proposals to change the current registration system, how getting your car serviced outside the franchise network can put your warranty at risk, and the outing of Top Gear's Stig. Listen live at irishtimes.com/motors/podcastAlso on our website you can access our road test archive, with over 450 different models tested in detail.

Revised look for Mazda2

MAZDA will reveal its revised look for the Mazda2 at next month’s Paris motor show.

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While the full details are yet to be confirmed, it’s expected the revised supermini will feature a host of changes to catch up with the popularity of Ford’s Fiesta and several upcoming new supermini rivals.

Aesthetically, there is a new nose to the car along with more intricate detailing on the body panels, similar to what has been done with the latest Mazda3 and Mazda5.

Mazda is also promising improved ride and handling. Alongside the revised Mazda2, the firm’s stand at a new 113bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine. The unit replaces the 2.0-litre diesel.

Peugot unveils production version of its diesel-hybrid crossover

PEUGEOT HAS just unveiled the production version of its 3008 hybrid crossover, the first diesel-electric hybrid to go on sale as a private car.

Called the 3008 HYbrid4, the Peugeot teams a 163bhp 2-litre diesel engine driving the front wheels, while a 37bhp electric motor powers the rear, totalling a combined output of 200bhp with a torque of 500Nm. It’s claimed to achieve a fuel economy of 3.8L/100km (77.4mpg) and emissions of 99g/km.

While the new powertrain is debuting in the 3008, it will be offered in the new 508 and Peugeot’s RCZ sports car as well.