The two model series ID.7 Tourer and Passat Variant complement each other because together they cover all drive types. The ID.7 Tourer now combines the emission benefits of e-mobility with WLTP ranges of up to 685 kilometers, plenty of travel comfort and generous space, making it also suitable as a company car. Europe-wide pre-sales are due to start in the first quarter of this year. Prices have not yet been set.

Larger trunk volume

The ID.7 Tourer is clearly differentiated from the hatchback saloon at the rear. Its design is characterized in particular by the long roofline and the elegant transition to the tailgate. Stylistically, the Tourer is a mixture of classic Estate and dynamic Shooting Brake. The extra height in the rear results in an increased trunk volume compared to the hatchback saloon. With five people on board, the ID.7 Tourer can hold up to 605 liters. Loaded up to the backrests of the front seats and roof-high, this figure rises to up to 1714 liters.

One of the new technical features of the Tourer is the standard augmented reality head-up display. It projects information relevant to driving into the driver's field of vision so that they do not have to take their eyes off the road. At the same time, the AR-HUD changes the cockpit architecture, as the classic instruments have become smaller.

Comfort with upper class level

This is made possible by details such as the air vents, which are automatically controlled by small actuators, and Active seats with a new pressure point massage and automatic climate control. Another innovation is the Smart Glass panoramic roof, whose glass layers can be electronically switched to opaque or clear. The Wellness In-Car app is also new. It can be used to adjust various vehicle functions via three preconfigured programs that help to increase well-being.

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After the new summer tire test, the TCS found that for the first time, unknown brands also made it to the top. In general, the conclusion on the tested dimension is positive. Of the 16 tire models, three are rated as highly recommended, twelve as recommended and one as conditionally recommended. Despite the pleasing overall picture, however, the differences in some test criteria are considerable. This becomes clear when comparing braking distances and residual speeds.

215/55 R17 98W tires are suitable for SUVs in the lower mid-size class as well as for mid-size vehicles such as the VW T-Roc, Audi Q2, Hyundai Kona, Renault Mégane or Scénic, Skoda Karoq or Ford C-Max. The test results were obtained with a VW T-Roc.

A South Korean pushes to the top

The test winners come from Continental, Michelin and Kumho. While the Continental Premium Contact 7, which was tested for the first time, sets the benchmark in terms of driving safety thanks to its clearly above-average performance, the Michelin Prmacy 4+ impresses in terms of environmental performance. The Continental is far ahead of the rest of the field, especially when it comes to wet braking. The South Korean Kumho Ecsta HS52, on the other hand, is on a par with the Michelin in terms of driving safety and on a par with the Continental in terms of environmental performance. It should be noted, however, that the Michelin is the only tire in the test field to score well in both disciplines and therefore falls into the category of particularly balanced.

... and these are further reviews

The tires from Debica, Dunlop, Bridgestone and Fulda are in the other places and just miss out on the overall rating of highly recommended. Bringing up the rear is the Vredestein Ultrac with a conditionally recommended rating. However, this tire is not downgraded because of its driving safety, but because of its low predicted mileage. Nevertheless, it can be a good alternative for infrequent drivers.

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The front section with full LED lighting gives the car a fresh light signature, typical of the brand in Dynamic Shield design. With a length of 4.05 meters and a turning circle diameter of just 10.4 meters, the Colt is ideal for city traffic. In terms of color, it draws attention to itself best in Sunrise Red.

New driver assistance systems

With the 7-inch instrument cluster and the 10-inch Digital Driver Display, the digital experience matches the modern approach to vehicle design. A range of accessories is available for all equipment variants, allowing the Colt to be optimized for all needs. Numerous new driver assistance systems ensure a high level of active safety. Apple Carplay and Android Auto bring the user's digital life into the interior.

Adaptive cruise control with stop & go, around view monitor, automatic high beam, blind spot warning, forward collision mitigation system and lane departure warning are some of the systems available in the new Colt. Comfort features such as the heated steering wheel and seats and the keyless entry system are also appreciated. The trunk can accommodate between 390 and 1070 liters of luggage.

Hybrid drive system with 145 hp

The entry-level model comes with a 1-liter three-cylinder engine and 65 hp. In Switzerland, however, the hybrid version with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and 36 kW electric motor is more likely to be chosen. The hybrid system achieves a maximum output of 145 hp and a torque of 205 Nm. This power is transmitted to the front wheels via the familiar multi-mode automatic transmission.

Up to 80 kilometers purely electric

Although only a small battery is installed, it is possible to cover up to 80 percent of the driving time in city traffic purely electrically. With the Multi-Sense system, the driver can use the driving modes to adjust the drivetrain and steering behavior as desired.

The infotainment system is supported by the ability to charge personal devices wirelessly, as well as two USB ports and the option of a premium sound system from Bose, which works with nine loudspeakers.

Prices for the hybrid models 1.6 HEV start at 27,199 francs in the Invite configuration, while the top model Instyle is available at a price of 31,299 francs.

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P.S. Mitsubishi guarantees battery capacity for eight years or 160,000 kilometers. The High-5 package consists of five years factory warranty, five years Free Service, five years MAP Mitsubishi Assistance, five years warranty on original accessories and five years paint warranty.

The Interstar is tailored to the diverse needs of companies of all types and sizes. The striking front grille and the design, which exudes truck character, give the Interstar a strong appearance. As standard, Nissan offers a warranty of five years or 160,000 kilometers and eight years or 160,000 kilometers on the high-voltage battery of the Interstar-e version. Nissan offers a wide range of factory conversions for the new model, including tipper, platform and panel vans.

E-range of more than 460 kilometers

The all-electric Interstar-e has an 87-kWh battery that provides a range of more than 460 kilometers. The battery can be recharged in 30 minutes using the DC fast-charging function, giving it a range of up to 252 kilometers. The aerodynamics of the Interstar have been further optimized, which reduces air resistance by 20 percent regardless of the type of drive, thus ensuring good energy efficiency.

In addition, the van now has a wider side door and a longer loading area. With payloads of up to 1.6 tons for the electric version and almost two tons for the diesel version, the van is particularly suitable for companies that frequently have to transport heavy loads. The 1.5 meter smaller turning circle also improves maneuverability. Both the diesel and electric versions have a maximum towing capacity of 2500 kilograms.

Revised interior and comfort

The interior of the new Interstar also differs significantly from its predecessor. Hard-wearing seat covers, heated seats and a heated windshield offer good comfort even on longer journeys. All variants are also equipped with numerous safety systems, including emergency brake assist, a drowsiness warning system, a tire pressure monitoring system and a trailer stabilization system.

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In addition to the California-based EV company's Gravity SUV (fittings gallery right), the Air Sapphire sports sedan (gallery left) and the Air Pure with rear-wheel drive (gallery center) can be seen at Palexpo. The Gravity offers a new combination of attributes in a single vehicle, including a special driving experience and a range of more than 700 kilometers. The basis is a new SUV platform and the specially developed electric drive. The spacious, luxurious interior has room for up to seven adults and their luggage.

Performance model

The Air Sapphire is an all-electric super sports saloon with three motors for optimum driving performance. The equipment also includes four driving modes, carbon-ceramic brakes, a special aerodynamics package, sports seats and a chassis that is also tuned for the racetrack. On the road, the Air Sapphire is designed to take electric performance to a new level.

Californian design

The Air Pure RWD is the entry-level model in the Air range and also the most efficient model with a WLTP energy consumption of 13.0 kWh per 100 kilometers. An electric motor specially developed and manufactured by Lucid ensures high performance and a range of up to 747 kilometers. The vehicle is equipped with a new battery pack for the Air Pure RWD - the brand's most compact to date. The model is also set to impress with its elegant interior and stylish overall design.

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The idea for the Audi RS 6 Avant GT is based on the RS 6 GTO Concept apprentice project from 2020. The apprentices were inspired by the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO racing car from 1989. The radiator grille and air intakes of the new Audi RS 6 Avant GT are finished entirely in high-gloss black. This makes the car appear lower and wider.

The carbon hood and mudguards are also brand new. Thanks to the air outlets behind the 22-inch wheels, the dynamic pressure in the wheel arch is reduced, thus ensuring better brake cooling. At the rear, the tailgate with visually lowered loading sill, the air-flow diffuser and the motorsport-inspired double wing are striking. For the first time in the history of the RS 6 Avant, however, the roof rails have been omitted.

On request exclusive foiled

The choice of exterior colors includes Arkona White, Nardo Grey, Chronos Grey Metallic, Madeira Brown Metallic and Mythos Black Metallic. Two exclusive foil finishes are available on request. The first combines the traditional colors of Audi Sport: black, grey and red. Alternatively, the black and gray foiling is available on a paint finish in Nardo Gray or Mythos Black. The black interior is enhanced by numerous color accents in red and copper. This applies to the steering wheel rim, the center armrest, the door armrests and the floor mats. New RS bucket seats in a leather and Dinamica combination and with RS 6 GT lettering are also installed.

To 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds

The 4-liter biturbo V8 delivers 630 hp and a maximum torque of 850 Nm. The top of the range sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and accelerates to 200 km/h in just 11.5 seconds. Its top speed is 305 km/h, with negative acceleration provided by a ceramic braking system.

The Dynamic driving mode emphasizes even more pronounced agility and rear accentuation. For the first time, the RS 6 Avant GT comes with a specially tuned coilover suspension as standard. It lowers the trim level by ten millimetres compared to the RS 6 Avant, is manually adjustable and offers an optimum spread between dynamics and comfort. Together with the revised sports differential on the rear axle, this further enhances the driving experience.

Delivery of the special model will begin in the fourth quarter, with prices starting at 235,330 Swiss francs.

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When it made its debut in 1924, the Bugatti Type 35 immediately set new standards. It introduced many technical innovations and raised the art of motorsport to a high level. Ettore Bugatti (gallery left) was born into a family that had been characterized by art, design and creativity for generations. His interests were therefore diverse and his expertise extensive.

Although he had many successful projects to his name before creating the Type 35, Bugatti was not a trained engineer. Had he been trained in traditional automotive engineering, he might not have pushed the boundaries so far with the Type 35. And he certainly would not have created the many beautiful design elements that go hand in hand with the car's technical innovations.

Air resistance of the body

While other cars rose high, the body of the Type 35 sat low to the ground, and while other cars were fitted with wire wheels, the Type 35 rode on cast wheels to reduce the unsprung masses. On other cars, the rear suspension was open, but on the Type 35 it was cleverly integrated into the elliptical aluminum body. Even though the understanding of aerodynamics was still in its infancy at the time, this pioneering approach helped to further reduce the aerodynamic drag of the body.

Aluminum crankshaft

The Type 35 debuted with a 2-liter in-line engine with eight cylinders and 24 valves, which was later enlarged to 2.3 liters and equipped with a supercharger. The use of an aluminum crankshaft supported by two roller bearings and three ball bearings enabled the engine to rev up to 6000 rpm and produce 90 hp. Bugatti was aware that superior performance could be achieved not only through additional horsepower, but also through weight reduction. His efforts to make every component as light as possible resulted in a vehicle weight of just 750 kilograms.

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Last season ended just 80 days ago and the start of the 2024 FIA Formula 1 World Championship is already just around the corner. Despite the lack of races, the AMG Petronas racing team's factories in Brackley and Brixworth have been a hive of activity. The new W15 E Performance racing car is now ready and is being used for test drives. Immediately after the disappointing 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix, Mercedes AMG Petronas initiated a phase of renewal. There was noticeable progress over the course of last season and second place in the constructors' championship.

Continuous development 

Toto Wolff, Team Principal and CEO of the Mercedes F1 team: "We know that we have a mountain to climb to fight at the top. There are no miracles in this sport, but our ambition and determination are strong. Since we embarked on this new course, we have made good progress. We have made progress and are looking forward to taking the next step with the W15."

Chassis and gearbox housing

The changes include a new chassis and a new gearbox housing. In terms of aerodynamics, the focus, as always, has been on efficiency: the search for more downforce with less drag and power transfer to the track in harmony with the suspension and tires. However, the main differentiators are on the underside of the car. In the current generation, much of the performance depends on how the ground interacts with the road and how well the ground can behave aerodynamically.

Commitment to tradition

Another visible difference in the W15 is the paintwork. The famous Mercedes silver returns and complements the black of recent seasons. According to Toto Wolff, the paintwork reflects the team identity. The front section is silver with the three-pointed star pattern on the engine cover. The Petronas green provides a dynamic flow on the car, while the Toto Rosso red from Ineos is mainly found on the rear wing and the roll bar.

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Lamborghini and Amalgam have been working together for 15 years. Now two exciting 1:8 scale models are coming onto the market: the Countach LP400 built from 1974 to 1978 with a 4-liter V12 engine (370 hp) and the new hybrid super sports car Revuelto (1011 hp), both limited to 199 units. The prices are 14,835 pounds (16,450 Swiss francs) for the Countach and 12,185 pounds (13,510 Swiss francs) for the Revuelto. A customized Revuelto, however, costs 17,425 pounds (19,320 Swiss francs). Each Amalgam model takes more than 400 hours of manual labor to produce.

Tailor-made on request

Together with the Miura, the Countach is one of the milestones in the Lamborghini heritage. Designed by Marcello Gandini at Bertone, the mid-engined two-seater was the first sports car with upward-opening doors. In just under five years, it was only produced 151 times.

The Revuelto, the first high-performance hybrid from Sant'Agata presented a year ago to mark the company's anniversary, set new standards in terms of power output and driving pleasure. The 1011 hp comes from a V12 petrol engine and three electric motors.

Revuelto owners can have their own car scaled down as a special edition - down to the smallest exterior and interior detail and in exactly the same color. The Amalgam Revuelto measures 56 centimetres in length.

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The coverage of breakdown service costs depends on the situation. In the event of a car breakdown in Switzerland, the following applies: For members, traffic clubs such as ACS or TCS normally cover the costs. And if your car insurance includes the additional Auto-Assistance cover, it will cover the costs. You then receive breakdown assistance without being a member of a traffic club. If it is a newer car with a warranty claim, for example engine damage, you should contact the manufacturer.

In the case of traffic accidents, the decisive factor is who caused the accident. In any case, you should keep the receipt for the roadside assistance. Injured parties can claim the costs back from the other party's insurance company. In the event of a self-inflicted accident, the liability insurance will cover the towing of the vehicle.

What does roadside assistance cost?

Whether it's a flat car battery, a blown tire or a key forgotten in the car: depending on the breakdown, it can be very expensive. The cost of roadside assistance can range from a few hundred to several thousand francs. Traffic clubs cover the costs for their members. Membership of a traffic club costs from around 85 francs a year. In most cases, there are special discounts for young drivers, families and new members.

Breakdown assistance is often included in car insurance. Providers usually call this cover Assistance or Mobility. Good to know: If a tire bursts due to normal wear and tear, assistance insurance does not cover all consequential costs. As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring that you are on the road with roadworthy tires.

Insurance through a club

Not only the insurance companies, but also three transportation clubs offer roadside assistance in Switzerland: the Touring Club Switzerland, the Swiss Transportation Club and the Automobile Club of Switzerland. For members of these clubs, roadside assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in an emergency. Good to know: Traffic clubs also offer breakdown assistance for third-party vehicles. The breakdown cover provided by car insurance companies, on the other hand, only applies to your own car.

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