More tweaks on the DB9
The Aston Martin DB9 debuted to much acclaim in 2003, and now the supercar’s 5.9-litre petrol engine and bodywork have both been tweaked to improve appeal. The DB9 shares with the V8 Vantage the honour of being the most successful Aston Martin of all time, and prices of revamped DB9s will start from £122,445 for the Coupe, and £131,445 for the Volante.

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Delight as the Top Gear stars take Kia for a spin
Kia is cock-a-hoop over its cee’d 2 1.6-litre manual five-door model being chosen as BBC2 Top Gear’s reasonably priced car for the latest series of the TV motoring show.
And no wonder, as Kia’s press chief, Stephen Kitson, explains: “The last time Top Gear paid us any attention they tried to build one of our cars out of old washing machines! So this is quite a step forward in their understanding of just how Kia has changed over the last six years.”

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Landmark model for centenary
The new Alfa Giulietta, on sale in the UK from July 24, will cost from £16,995 for the 1.4-litre petrol Turismo, to £22,495 for the 2.0-litre diesel Veloce. The five-door compact Giulietta is a refreshing sporty alternative in the small family car sector, and a landmark model for Alfa Romeo in the Italian marque’s centenary year.

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How to hire without the hitches
Summer car hire can be hitch-free, especially if the vehicle is booked well in advance, says the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association. The organisation’s website has a downloadable guide to car rental, which includes lots of useful tips – visit bvrla.co.uk

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Mazda MPV has eye on fuel cost
The revamped Mazda5 people carrier will be in UK dealers’ showrooms this autumn, and it will include a more frugal petrol engine that gets stop-start technology. First launched in 2007, the Mazda5 has attracted 175,000 buyers in Europe and won 37 major automotive awards. More details on the MPV will come from Mazda closer to the on-sale date.

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