Test drivers are evaluating...
Test drivers are evaluating a final flagship for the hatchback range, badged the R36. Powered by the 3.6-litre V6 that debuted in the Passat, the car will offer between 280 and 300bhp. Due on sale early next year, it will hit the road 12 months ahead of the March 2008 debut of the new-look Golf. Prices are still being kept under wraps, although it"s expected the newcomer will cost at least ÷£1,500 more than the current R32, weighing in at ÷£26,000.
But now, the end of...
But now, the end of the road for the problem could be in sight after Navteq, the firm which supplies routing information to the majority of sat-nav devices, said it is going to make its UK database more extensive.
This means sat-nav systems will be able to alert drivers to weak or low bridges, warn of road widths and give other previously unavailable information. It should make the units safer and more accurate, and put a stop to trucks thundering through hamlets and driv÷ers ending up in rivers or on cliff edges.
Mapping for these new road characteristics has already been completed in France and Germany, and it"s set to be rolled out in the UK this year. First to benefit will be truck and fleet operators, but details are expected to filter down to consumer users, too - including caravanners and drivers who need to plan routes according to width and bridge heights. Bosses at Navteq hope the move will bring the company in line with possible new guidelines from the Department for Transport, which is currently carry÷ing out a study into the safety aspects of sat-nav. The results of this will be published in the next few months.