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Honestjohn News Feed http://www.honestjohn.co.uk All news listed here! en-gb Tue, 16 Mar 2010 21:48:41 +0000 Copyright: (C) www.honestjohn.co.uk 15 Nissan launches diesel Murano 45606 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/nissan-launches-diesel-murano'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068591/60072nis.jpg' align="left" /></a> Nissan has announced it will add a new turbodiesel engine to the Murano range and the car will go on sale in the UK in September. The 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel has 187bhp and 332lb ft of mid-rev shove. Unlike the petrol Murano that uses a continuously variable transmission, the diesel uses a six-speed automatic gearbox that delivers power to all four wheels. Aside from the engine, the diesel Murano continues to offer the same generous standard specification as the petrol model. This includes leather upholstery, satellite navigation and climate control. Also included are side and rear parking cameras. The side cameras are mounted in the passenger door mirrors to show obstacles that would otherwise be in the driver's blind spot. Nissan has yet to announce prices for the Diesel Murano, but expect it to cost around £33,000 when it reaches showrooms in September in the UK. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/nissan-launches-diesel-murano <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/nissan-launches-diesel-murano'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068591/60072nis.jpg' /></a> BMW reveals new 5 Series Touring 45607 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/bmw-reveals-new-5-series-touring'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068607/60065bmw.jpg' align="left" /></a> Hot on the heels of the launch of BMW's new 5 Series saloon comes the unveiling of the next Touring model with these first pictures. The new estate model will go on sale in the UK in September. From launch, the fourth generation 5 Series Touring will be offered with 2.0- and 3.0-litre turbodiesel engines. These units offer 53.3- and 44.1mpg combined economy respectively. Petrol motors are taken care of by the same six-cylinder engines as used in the 523i and 535i. To make the Touring as practical as possible, BMW has introduced 40/20/40 split and fold rear seats that tip flat into the load floor. The load cover retracts and lowers automatically as the tailgate is opened and closed, while the tailgate has a separately opening rear window. With the rear seats in use, the 5 Series Touring has a load space of 560-litres, while with the rear seats folded it can provide up to 1670-litres of cargo capacity. An option for the new estate is the Extended Storage facility that allows the rear seats to be positioned at a more upright angle to add a further 30-litres of boot space when the rear seats are in use. Self-levelling rear suspension is standard for all Touring models to maintain an even ride when the car is heavily loaded. BMW also says it has retained the 50:50 front to rear weight distribution of the saloon to preserve the 5 Series' reputation for handling ability. The rest of the 5 Series Touring is much as the saloon. For the big-selling 520d model, 0-62mph comes up in 8.3 seconds for the manual version and top speed is 138mph. It also offers carbon dioxide emissions of 137g/km to be company car friendly. All new 5 Series Touring feature BMW EfficientDynamics to help reduce emissions and improve economy. The 520d model is the first 5 Series Touring to use Auto Stop-Start to switch the engine off when the car is stationary in traffic. Prices for the new 5 Series Touring start at £30,380 for the 520d, with the 530d coming in at £39,400. Petrol models cost from £33,585 for the 523i and the 535i begins from £39,650. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/bmw-reveals-new-5-series-touring <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/bmw-reveals-new-5-series-touring'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068607/60065bmw.jpg' /></a> Toyota recall on course 45610 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068687/60067toy-.jpg' align="left" /></a> More than 90,000 Toyotas have been through the company's recall programme to fix a potential problem with the accelerator pedal sticking. This is more than half of all the affected cars, and Toyota says it is even further ahead with its recall campaign for the possible braking problem with the Prius. Toyota is using more than 200 service centres around the UK to put the recall campaigns into effect. As well as working on cars that have already been sold, Toyota is remedying cars that are awaiting delivery. Miguel Fonseca, Toyota GB's Managing Director, said: 'Our thanks go to our customers who continue to be supportive and have confidence in the Toyota brand. The Toyota family, from head office to workshops, has worked together to maintain a high level of service quality as we address the recall programme.' The Toyota Prius enjoyed twice as many sales in February as in January, and Toyota says 96% of owners asked have said they are happy with the service they have received as part of the recall. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068687/60067toy-.jpg' /></a> Jaguar Heritage Auction, Sandown Park, 27th April 45603 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/auctions/2010-03/classic-jaguar-auction'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068320/barons e-type s3 ftm280l.jpg' align="left" /></a>   Barons’ Jaguar Heritage, Classic and Sports Car Sale at Sandown Park,  Surrey on April 27th celebrates the 75th anniversary of the legendary marque. The entry list already includes several very desirable examples, including a 1933 SS1 coupé, a stunning, rare 1958 XK150SE DHC auto and some glorious E-types, including an updated 1973 Series 3 roadster by Vicarage. The 1933 SS1 coupé is one of just 1099 produced. Finished in its original coffee and cream colours, it is fitted with its original - and very rare - R.A.G carburettor, all original running gear and the original wipers driven from the gearbox. The car has been repatriated after spending many years in Australia and is offered in good condition, having been restored some years ago.  Estimate: £70,000-90,000. The 1958 XK150SE DHC auto was originally delivered to John Bloom as a present from his business partner Mr Barry Humpman. The pair became household names in Britain in the 1950s and early '60s by marketing washing machines - gaining over 10% of the UK market share. The car was subsequently owned by Bentley specialist Stanley Mann. In recent years it has been completely rebuilt, including a bare metal respray, engine and transmission rebuild, a full re-trim in high quality Connolly red leather with black piping and a new mohair hood. The car has lived in Cyprus since 2008 and was shipped back to the UK in February this year. It has covered only 24,250 miles in its lifetime - and just 100 miles since 2008. Estimate: £60,000-£70,000. Early entries for the sale also include three excellent variants of the ever-popular Jaguar E-type. The primrose yellow 1973 S3 V12 Vicarage roadster is in mint condition, (estimate £78,000-£85,000).  Earlier E-types are represented by a sleek, black 1962 S1 3.8 fixed-head coupé, a left-hand-drive car which spent the first 36 years of its life in California. It has been meticulously restored and carries an estimate of £28,000-£34,000. And the sale also includes a later Series One E-type - a 1968 Series 11/2, to be precise - which has covered 38,800 miles from new.  It is offered complete with an extensive file of bills relating to the restoration and various upgrades incorporated during the rebuild, which includes tuning by TAG Racing team mechanic (estimate £26,000-£29,000). Another great British classic is the 1961 Jaguar MkII 3.4 Saloon, which is equipped with the desirable manual + overdrive transmission and has benefited from a £45,000 restoration. The car was originally supplied to the Australian market and reimported to the UK. It was acquired by the vendor in 2000 after some time in storage and a comprehensive restoration was undertaken with assistance from Cooper Craft. It has been comprehensively rebuilt, with new interior, Coombs-style rear arches and outstanding body and paintwork. The 3.4 litre, XK engine has recently been rebuilt and the car is said to drive like a modern version of a MKII. (£21,000-£25,000.) Barons’ Jaguar successes The directors of Barons are not just Jaguar fans, but are steeped in Jaguar history. Consequently the company has a great affinity with the marque, and has enjoyed great success with its Jaguar sales. A specialist dealer in classic Jaguars in the 1980s and ‘90s, Laurence Sayers-Gillan also used to own and run a Jaguar racing team, campaigning a 550bhp V12 S3 Saloon in the AMOC Inter Marque Championship and other national race series. In addition, he was a founder member of the Jaguar Car Club and served on the Jaguar Drivers’ Club competition committee. Another Barons’ director, Tony Cavell, was a well-known MKII racer and Jaguar racecar preparation specialist, with a string of successes behind him, both behind the wheel and as a race engineer. Barons attracts more Jaguars than other UK auction houses due to its background in the marque, and holds a Jaguar Heritage sale every year. It has also achieved some outstanding results in recent years. 2009 saw £70,000 for a S3 E-Type Roadster, £30,000 for a S2 E-Type FHC, £60,000 for a 1947 3.5 Saloon and £32,000 for a 3.8 MKII Saloon. Barons has also sold a number of Jaguars with fascinating histories, including the ex-Wilkie Wilkinson 1961 S1 E-Type FHC, registration WAG 7, which achieved £32,346 at Barons’ Sandown Park sale in December 2008. ‘WAG 7’ was sold on behalf of the estate of the world-famous bodybuilder Charles 'Wag' Bennett. Bennett is perhaps best-known for discovering Arnold Schwarzenegger who would, in later years, refer to him as his ‘British father’. To consign a Jaguar or other classic or sports car to the April 27th auction, or to be kept informed about entries as they are confirmed, visit www.barons-auctions.com , call 08454 306060 or email  info@barons-auctions.com     http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/auctions/2010-03/classic-jaguar-auction <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/auctions/2010-03/classic-jaguar-auction'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068320/barons e-type s3 ftm280l.jpg' /></a> Mercedes offers new service plan 45602 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/mercedes-offers-new-service-plan'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068304/081250100_1222252253.jpg' align="left" /></a> A new service plan from Mercedes offers official dealer servicing from £22.50 per month. Called Service Care, Mercedes says it's a way of spreading the cost of servicing either through a fixed monthly sum or a single one-off, up-front payment. The Service Care plan covers all manufacturer-recommended service items, such as spark plugs, filters and brake fluid. It can be used to spread the cost of maintenance over any period an owner wants and it's transferable with the car when the owner sells it. Angela Shepherd, Customer Services Director of Mercedes-Benz UK, said: 'The Service Care plan means customers can enjoy the reassurance that their car is being worked on by manufacturer-trained technicians using genuine parts and approved lubricants. A full Mercedes service history also demonstrates to a future buyer that the owner has taken the best care of their car, which may enhance its future value.' Mrs Shepherd added: 'The Service Care plan protects against inflation, so if the cost of parts or labour increases, the price of their servicing will remain the same.' The Service Care plan is offered on most Mercedes cars up to seven-years old, with AMG models not included. All work is carried out at official Mercedes-Benz workshops. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/mercedes-offers-new-service-plan <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/mercedes-offers-new-service-plan'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068304/081250100_1222252253.jpg' /></a> Limited Edition Fiat 500C Pink revealed 45604 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/limited-addition-fiat-500c-pink-revealed'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068352/60050fia.jpg' align="left" /></a> A limited edition 500C open-top has been launched by Fiat and it's painted pink. The 500C Pink is based on the 1.2-litre petrol-powered Pop version of the convertible Fiat. It comes with pink paintwork and door mirrors, 16in alloy wheels, chrome trim and unique carpet mats. There's also a special pink key fob and the limited edition model also includes split and fold rear seats and Fiat's Blue&Me infotainment pack in the price. Costing £1200 more than a standard 500C 1.2 Pop, the Pink comes in at £13,500, but Fiat points out that it includes £1870 worth of extras as part of the package. The fabric roof is finished in black cloth, but the limited edition model also comes with a pink-painted centre console. Like the hatchback version, only 500 of the 500C Pink drop-tops will be built and are available to order now. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/limited-addition-fiat-500c-pink-revealed <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/limited-addition-fiat-500c-pink-revealed'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068352/60050fia.jpg' /></a> Depressed UK economy benefits classic car sellers 45605 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/depressed-uk-economy-benefits-classic-car-sellers'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068559/150310pfpr.jpg' align="left" /></a> Anyone with a left-hand drive classic car in the UK could make a bigger profit by selling their car in continental Europe. Price guide bible Glass's Guide says classic car owners who bought such cars prior to 2008 stand to make substantial gains when they sell. Older Car Editor at Glass's, John Glynn, said: 'A car bought in Europe three years ago for 22,000 Euros and sold today at the same price would bring a profit of £5200 thanks to the changes in exchange rates due to the current weakness of Sterling against the Euro. 'With many classic car values having risen by around 6% year-on-year since 2007, profits might be even higher. The same car bought in 2007 for 22,000 Euros could now be worth around 26,000, which represents a £9000 return for canny buyers.' British-based classic car dealers report strong interest in left-hand drive cars from the UK. However, Glass's warns that the UK could witness the loss of many classic cars from its shores due to the exchange rate favouring European buyers at present. Glynn adds: 'Classic cars are a great investment tool if you know the market and enjoy the cars. The exchange rate effect means the UK may lose some lovely machinery, but it also means there will be a demand from successful dealers to acquire replacement models, which will help stimulate the UK market once again.' http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/depressed-uk-economy-benefits-classic-car-sellers <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/depressed-uk-economy-benefits-classic-car-sellers'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068559/150310pfpr.jpg' /></a> Millers Oils launches easy-to-use online oilfinder 45585 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/parts-and-accessories/2010-03/millers-oilfinder'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3067679/millers xf longlife oil 700.jpg' align="left" /></a> Millers Oils has launched easy-to-use online product finder   Millers Oils, the specialist oils and fuel treatments manufacturer, has launched its 'Which Oil?' online advice tool designed to make it easier for motorists to find the recommended and correct grade of engine oil, gearbox oil and coolant for both cars and vans.   In a market where there can often be an overwhelming choice of products to choose from, the 'Which Oil?' advisor is fast, simple and easy-to-use. It allows customers to find the products that are fully compatible with the specified vehicle and has been designed also to provide advanced performance and reliablity for their vehicle.   Customers visiting the Millers Oils site insert their vehicle¹s make and model information and a tailored range of Millers Oils products to suit requirements is provided within seconds.   Recent innovations from Millers Oils also includes the launch of five new Premium Engine Oils, formulated to meet and, in some cases exceed, the most stringent requirements of car manufacturers, including 'Extended Drain' capabilities. These new oils have been developed to provide state-of-the-art technology that meets the changing demands of the market and feature within the advisor.   Stephen Parker marketing manager at Millers Oils, comments: "For the average motorist, it can be very difficult to know which products are right products for your car, with a confusing amount of choice available. Millers Oils continues to develop new innovative solutions for total customer peace of mind. We think it¹s important for customers to know they not only have the correct products to look after their engine and gearbox, but high performance and reliable products that result in added customer benefits."   "The 'Which Oil?' System, aims to make it as easy as possible for motorists to find the right oil for their vehicles, and we expect it to be a popular addition to the website."   For 'Which Oil?' advice, stockist details and product information please visit the Millers Oils website at www.millersoils.co.uk   http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/parts-and-accessories/2010-03/millers-oilfinder <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/parts-and-accessories/2010-03/millers-oilfinder'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3067679/millers xf longlife oil 700.jpg' /></a> New Kia Magentis Unveiled 45592 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/new-kia-magentis'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068224/140310kia.jpg' align="left" /></a> The Magentis - one of the oldest models in the Kia line-up - is set to be replaced by this striking-looking model by early next year. The new car, designed by Peter Schreyer, the man behind the styling of the original TT, is set to more of a challenger to the Ford Mondeo than ever before. It will be unveiled at the New York Motor Show next month, though the name won't be confirmed until closer to the car's launch in 2011. Following the theme of recent model revisions, new Magentis is longer, lower and wider than before, the Kia's coupe-like profile is enhanced by the sweeping chrome arc that flows from A to C pillar, a distinctive design motif that visually lowers the car further still and enhances its cab-backwards proportions. It's said to be is spacious, with class-leading levels of safety and luxury equipment, with an 'intelligently configured and driver-oriented cabin'. "This new model embodies Kia's confident new design direction," says Schreyer. "It's a global car with individual appeal." What should you be looking out for if you're buying the current Magentis? Find out here . http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/new-kia-magentis <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/new-kia-magentis'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3068224/140310kia.jpg' /></a> Renault Trafic Phase III 9-seater 45554 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/trafic-phase-iii'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3066402/ren trafic bus f34 700.jpg' align="left" /></a> The Trafic is Renault’s familiar mid-size van, also badged Nissan Primastar and Vauxhall Vivaro and the best selling van of its size in Europe with more than 1.1 million on the roads.   It has been refreshed from June 2010 with Renault’s 2.0 chain cam 2.0 dCi diesel engine, improved suspension, new dashboard and new equipment including Renault’s excellent £450 optional built-in Carminat TomTom satnav.   Front-drive only, it comes in lengths of 4,782mm and 5,182mm and a width of 1,904mm, plus mirrors.   Heights are 1,969mm or 2,464mm. Capacities are from 5 cubic metres to 8.3 cubic metres.   The vans are available as single or double cab ‘kombi’ versions with 3.2 or 4.1 cubic metres of loadspace behind the back seats. Or as 8 or 9 seater buses with 1.2 or 2.2 cubic metres loadspace behind the third row of seats, depending on body length.   Engines are Renault’s 1,996cc chain cam diesel, EU4 only, with 90PS or 115PS and 240Nm or 290Nm torque, or the old 150PS 2.5 litre diesel. These com with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or, interestingly, a ‘robotised’ version of the transmission offering an automated clutch and two pedal control.   Standard figures for the 2.0dCi 90 are top speed 88mph,   0-60 18.5 seconds, 195g/km CO2 and 7.4 litres/100km combined. For the 2.0dCi 115 these translate to top speed 100mph, 0-60 14.5 seconds, 195g/km CO2 and 7.4 litres/100km combined. Performance is the same for the robotised manual, but CO2 comes down to 192g/km and economy goes up to 7.3 litres/100km.   Naturally, these figures are affected by going for a higher roof or longer body length, as they were in the long body 9-seater bus version with robotised gearbox I tried. In its case CO2 was up to 199g/km and fuel economy down to 7.5 litres/100km.   The robotised shift works well once you get used to it and is obviously a boon for town driving. The Trafic bus handles decently enough. The new dashboard brings the option of integrated Carminat TomTom satnav, Bluetooth connectivity and cruise control with speed limiter.   By March 2010, Renault had 14.8% of the total EU market for light commercial vehicles, compared with 11.8% for Citroen and 11.6% for FIAT, and sold a total of 206,000 LCVs in 2009.   It now offers 400 ‘one stop shop’ Renault Pro+ LCV dealerships throughout Europe.   Prices for the new range of Renault Trafics will be announced closer to the June 2010 on sale date.   All Renault vans carry a 3 year, 100,000 mile warranty in the UK.   More at www.renault.co.uk     http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/trafic-phase-iii <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/trafic-phase-iii'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3066402/ren trafic bus f34 700.jpg' /></a> Renault Master 2010 dCi 150 LWB 45560 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/renault-master-2010'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3066514/ren master 150 f34 700.jpg' align="left" /></a> ”Sorry, we don’t do vans,” I’ve been telling people.   Rather too frequently. So we thought we’d better start.   The new Master, available from May 2010, is Renault’s big white van. Or, in our case, big yellow van. It comes in lengths of 5,048mm, 5,548mm, 6,198mm with front wheel drive. And 6,198mm and 6,848mm with rear wheel drive. All are the same width of 2,070mm, or 2,470mm including the essential huge door mirrors.   Heights are from 2,303mm to 2,749mm with front wheel drive and 2,549mm to 2,815mm with rear wheel drive.   Capacities are from 8 cubic metres to 14.8 cubic metres front wheel drive and from 12.4 cubic metres to 17 cubic metres rear wheel drive.   Or as much as 22 cubic metres with a Luton style box body. So that last one is quite a big van.   Maximum payloads get complicated, though obviously if you need to carry really heavy loads you will need the rear wheel drive 3.5 tonne and 4.5 tonne chassis.   Engines are the same basic new 2,298cc 4 cylinder diesel with outputs of 100PS, 125PS or 150PS and torque of 285Nm, 310Nm and 350Nm. You can get the dCi 100 and dCi 125 as EU4, all as EU5 with a manual 6 speed transmissions and the 125 and 150 with robotised autoclutch 6 speed transmissions. Two different rear axle ratios are offered on the RWD chassis.   You can also decide whether you want twin sliding side doors, single sliding side door or no side doors aft of the cab. You can have a crew van version with rear seats. You can order bus versions. You can order chassis/cabs. You can have pick-ups and tippers.   Most Masters are built to order according to the spec the customer needs. And obviously fuel economy and performance will depend on the spec, the weights carried and the sort of work the vehicle is put to. Combined fuel economy is 33mpg at best, and CO2 187g/km upwards, but pointless including all the specs in a road test when you can access them at (Renault vans URL).   Renault approved coachbuilders offer a variety of vehicles based on the Master front wheel drive or rear wheel drive chassis, including horseboxes, ambulances, cherry picker vans, buses, vehicles adapted for carrying the disabled, refrigerated vans, you name it. Towing capacity is up to 3 tonnes.   In the UK all are covered by a 3 year 100,000 mile warranty.   We first drove a 6,848mm standard roof rear wheel drive 3.5 tonne version with a loadspace of 14.9 metres. The engine was the 150PS version of the 2.3 chain cam diesel with a 6 speed manual transmission. CO2 was certified at 249g/km and fuel economy at 9.4 litres per 100km.   Stepping inside the cab was quite a surprise. The centre passenger seatback folds down to become a table with cupholders and a swivel top for operating a laptop computer from the driver’s seat. A clipbard springs out neatly from the dash. There are dashtop storage compartments. Carminat TomTom remote control satnav with an overhead screen. Cruise control with a speed limiter. Options include a suspended driver’s seat capable of taking weights from 50kg to 130kg. Cornering lights are available. The option of a Renault Keycard is extremely helpful for drivers making deliveries not having to worry about locking and unlocking the van. You can even specify a reversing camera with screen in the back of the driver’s sunvisor.   For such a big vehicle it was surprisingly light and easy to handle. And very rugged. Part of the route was up an unmade road over a hill, which the twin rear wheels took in their stride.   Later we drove a 6,198mm 125PS front drive version of the van that seemed to have a bit more ‘bite’ at the front end but otherwise drove in a very similar manner.   Master prices start at £20,795 for a front wheel drive 100PS Freeway van with a load volume of 10.3 cubic metres and a payload of 1,415kg. They rise to £27,245 for the rear wheel drive 150PS MML35TW that features in our test and £29,945 for the crew van version. All prices plus VAT at 17.5%, of course.   By March 2010, Renault had 14.8% of the total EU market for light commercial vehicles, compared with 11.8% for Citroen and 11.6% for FIAT, and sold a total of 206,000 LCVs in 2009.   It now offers 400 ‘one stop shop’ Renault Pro+ LCV dealerships throughout Europe.   All Renault vans carry a 3 year, 100,000 mile warranty in the UK.    More at www.renault.co.uk     http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/renault-master-2010 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/renault-master-2010'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3066514/ren master 150 f34 700.jpg' /></a> Renault Kangoo Express Maxi 45546 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/renault-kangoo-maxi'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3066142/ren kan max com side 700.jpg' align="left" /></a> The Renault Kangoo Express now comes in three lengths, or will from June 2010.   These are ‘Compact’, at 3,928mm, normal, at 4,213mm, and now ‘Maxi’, at 4,597mm.   You might ask why?   The answer is that the ‘Compact’ is much more manoeuvrable in town and more easily parked by, for instance, a courier delivering small packages and files.   The standard length competes directly against the Citroen Berlingo and Peugeot Partner, offering one thing they currently don’t: a four speed, torque converter automatic. And, if specified with rear seats (either as a panel van for VAT purposes, or as a windowed MPV), these have a simple cantilever that enables them to be folded very quickly and easily. Another advantage over the Berlingo and Partner is that instead of adding the extra length behind the back wheels, Renault adds it to the wheelbase, which makes the Kangoo Maxi both better looking and more stable.   The main engine options for all three are Renault’s well used, belt cam 1.5dCi with outputs of 85PS or 105PS and torque of 200Nm at 1,900rpm or 240Nm at 2,000rpm. EU5 versions with diesel particulate filters and outputs of 90PS and 110PS will be available by the end of 2010.   The version I took out was a windowed Maxi ‘combi’ with 66/33 split folding rear seats. This would be special order in the UK, but you can get a VAT friendly van version with rear seats and a very clever moveable rear load guard that shifts to protect either all five passengers or just the driver and front passenger.   Maximum load length at floor level is 2,210mm to the backs of the two front seats, or 1,328mm to the backs of the rear seats. The two seater version can be ordered with an optional folding passenger seat enabling extremely long loads up to 2,886mm (9 feet) such as ladders and kayaks to be accommodated inside.   That makes it ideal for surfers, plumbers, cyclists, joiners, decorators or anyone who needs to carry long loads and may occasionally need to transport 3 or 4 people and a long load, or 5 people and a lot of kit.   The rear opening height is 1,190mm, width 1,219mm at floor level and 1,141mm at the top, with 1,149mm between the rear wheel arches. Access to the rear is by twin side hinged doors with stay releases to get them completely out of the way for forklift loading as palette into the back   The long wheelbase gives it surefooted handling. The 6 speed manual gearbox gives you about 28mph per 1,000rmp in 6 th . It can be specified with cruise control together with speed limiter. And the 105PS version I drove came in at 146g/km CO2 with a combined economy of 51.4mpg. Performance figures are 0-60 in a respectable 12.7 seconds and a top speed of 105mph.   Go for the 85PS version and the figures are 140g/km, 53.3mpg combined, 0-60 in 15.5 seconds and a top speed of 98. The extra length means a turning circle of 11.9 metres between kerbs.   A special version with drop down rear floor and swivel out, lifting passenger seat will also be available for the disabled.   Prices, exact UK spec and options will be announced closer to the UK sale date.   All Renault vans come with a 3-year, 100,000 warranty in the UK.   More at www.renault.co.uk http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/renault-kangoo-maxi <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/renault/renault-kangoo-maxi'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3066142/ren kan max com side 700.jpg' /></a> 2009 was worst years for used car sales 45440 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2009-was-worst-years-for-used-car-sales'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062465/001125200_1230030981.jpg' align="left" /></a> Used car sales fell by 5.7% in 2009 to record the worst year for the industry since 2000. Sales dropped to 6,713,269 in the UK, with the worst drop in the final quarter of 2009 compared to 2008. The figures from Experian show that the sector worst hit was small cars. This is partly due to the effect of the Scrappage Incentive Scheme removing a large number of this type of car from the roads. Other sectors badly hit include the family car class, small executives and sports cars, though specialist sports cars was the only sector to witness a small increase in sales of 5.7% in 2009 compared to 2008. The Ford Fiesta continued to be the most popular used car purchase, followed by the Vauxhall Corsa and then the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra in third and fourth places respectively. All of these cars suffered a drop in sale, while BMW was the only manufacturer to enjoy a rise in used car sales throughout 2009. Alternative fuel and hybrid-powered cars become more popular in 2009, helped by rising fuel prices. However, used cars aged between 0- and 3-years old also endured lower sales as the scrappage scheme encouraged more buyers to purchase a new car instead of a used one. Kirk Fletcher, Managing Director for Experian Business Information and Automotive, said: 'The recession and the scrappage scheme have had a big impact on the used car market. It has resulted in smaller new cars moving into a price range that had previously been occupied by used cars. 'The scrappage scheme has also affected the number of used cars available for sales, while the recession has resulted in people holding on to their cars for longer.' http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2009-was-worst-years-for-used-car-sales <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2009-was-worst-years-for-used-car-sales'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062465/001125200_1230030981.jpg' /></a> Alfa Mito MultiAir on sale 45507 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/alfa-mito-multiair-on-sale'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3064232/ar_1309.jpg' align="left" /></a> The Alfa Romeo Mito is now on sale in the UK with the Italian firm's new MultiAir range of petrol engines. Fitted to the Lusso, Veloce and Cloverleaf models, the 1.4-litre turbocharged engines provide 135- or 170bhp respectively. In the Lusso and Veloce, the 135bhp MultiAir engine provides 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds and a 129mph top speed. It also returns 50.4mpg combined economy and carbon dioxide emissions of 129g/km. For the new Cloverleaf model, the 1.4-litre engine boasts 10bhp for 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and economy of 47.1mpg. Both new MultiAir models have a six-speed manual gearbox and stop-start technology to save fuel and emissions, while the Cloverleaf's gear ever has be shortened by 2.5cm to give a more sporty shift action. Each of the new Mito MultiAir models comes with electric front windows, air conditioning and a CD stereo, while Alfa's DNA control for different steering and throttle settings is fitted to both. The Cloverleaf also comes with sports front seats and unique alloy wheels. Prices for the Mito MultiAir models starts at £15,163 for the Lusso, £16,135 for the Veloce and the Cloverleaf will set you back £17,895. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/alfa-mito-multiair-on-sale <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/alfa-mito-multiair-on-sale'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3064232/ar_1309.jpg' /></a> Pre-Reg '10' Plate Cars at up to £3,500 Discount 45434 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/deals/2010-03/mazda-mx-5'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062234/maz mx5 09 f34 700.jpg' align="left" /></a>   www.autofinders.co.uk has the following special offer cars IN STOCK NOW on the new “10 plate registration”. All cars supplied by Autofinders are UK franchised dealer supplied with full UK manufacturer’s warranty, breakdown cover, 12 months road tax, government 1st registration tax and all on the road charges included. Autofinders do not sell imports of any disguise. KIA Picanto 1.0 5 door…Only £6,295 — Beat the Kia April price increase Toyota Aygo blue special edition, 3 and 5 door available in stock now immediate delivery. High spec includes Air con, Alloy wheels, metallic paint etc…Save over £1,200 on the showroom recommended price. Mazda MX5---Choice of soft top and roadster models available from stock, SE, Sport-tech and power-shift models available…Save up to £3200 on list price—Brand new UK cars not pre registered.  Audi A3—choice of 3 and 5 door models---1.6 tdi and 2.0 tdi 3dr and Sportback models…huge savings on list price, choice of cars in stock now—brand new UK cars not pre registered. VW Golf…Choice of models available, 1.4 TSi and 2.0 Tdi 3 and 5 door models available..UK supplied with thousands off list price.   Other offers available include a new Nissan note for just £8295 and the new model Kia Sorrento with incredible savings of over £3500!!!!   All cars above subject to availability while stocks last…All UK supplied and include free delivery to your door. Autofinders operates one of the safest purchasing methods available- simply pay a small deposit by secure credit card and don’t pay the balance until you have received your new car. Its safe and simple. Part exchange always welcome. Autofinders are licensed credit brokers and can offer all types of finance facilities and independent advice including hire purchase, personal contract purchase and personal and business leasing schemes. Members of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (R.M.I.F) Autofinders invites any potential customer to visit its new high street premises in the historic market town of Chesterfield, Derbyshire, ideally located just 10 minutes off junction 29 of the M1 and on the main northern railway line linking London to Edinburgh. Opening hours are Monday-Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 10am-5pm…website  www.autofinders.co.uk  for many other offers on all makes and models       http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/deals/2010-03/mazda-mx-5 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/deals/2010-03/mazda-mx-5'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062234/maz mx5 09 f34 700.jpg' /></a> Three quarters would inform on an elderly relative driver 45438 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/legal--motoring-advice/three-quarters-would-inform-on-an-elderly-relative-driver-1'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062404/bmr-0703-1182.jpg' align="left" /></a> The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has revealed that 73% of people would report an elderly relative or friend to the police if they had concerns about their driving abilities. A poll by the IAM also found that 68% of drivers believe that there should be compulsory re-testing of all drivers over the age of 70-years old. They thought this would be a benefit to road safety. However, an even higher 77% think that young drivers are a greater danger on the roads. The IAM's Director of Policy, Neil Greig, said: 'It's good news that most drivers are aware that young drivers are the ones most in need of help, but worrying that mandatory re-testing has a fairly high level of support. 'We believe we need to reassure the public that older drivers do not represent a disproportionate risk. Eight percent of drivers on the UK's roads are over the age of 70 and they are involved in around 4% of injury crashes. However, 15% of drivers are in their teens and early 20s and they are involved on 34% of injury crashes - a far higher number.' The IAM says driver assessments should be offered so the public and authorities can report their concerns, and assessments would help older drivers counteract any deterioration in driving skills. Mr Greig added: 'Re-testing at 70 would be a mammoth administrative task with little road safety benefit.' http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/legal--motoring-advice/three-quarters-would-inform-on-an-elderly-relative-driver-1 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/legal--motoring-advice/three-quarters-would-inform-on-an-elderly-relative-driver-1'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062404/bmr-0703-1182.jpg' /></a> European car production lowest since 1996 45439 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/european-car-production-lowest-since-1996'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062420/025487600_1218635354.jpg' align="left" /></a> The number of new cars made in Europe has dropped to its lowest level since 1996 according to industry body, the ACEA. Its Economic Report concludes that passenger car sales across the European Union countries fell by 13% in 2009 compared to 2008. A total of 13.4 million cars were built within the EU in 2009. However, the report also points out that sales of cars emitting less than 120g/km of carbon rose to take a 25% share of the European car market in the same period. Car production did increase in the final quarter of 2009 compared to the same period of 2008, but the report points out this is largely due to the drop in production at the end of 2008. The figures for car production were not as bad as for commercial and truck sales, which increased the drop in overall vehicle production in the EU to 17% in 2009 compared to 2008. Germany is the largest vehicle producer in Europe, making 5.2 million in 2009, while Spain is the second largest (2.2 million) to beat France into third spot. The UK remains in fourth place in the production figures league, producing more than 1 million vehicles during 2009. The ACEA's Economic Report forecasts that passenger car production will drop again in 2010 due to weaker demand and commercial vehicle production will remain at 2009 levels. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/european-car-production-lowest-since-1996 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/european-car-production-lowest-since-1996'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062420/025487600_1218635354.jpg' /></a> Discounts, and Extended 0% Finance on Honda CR-V 45432 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/deals/2010-03/honda-cr-v'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062170/hon cr-v 2010 f34 700.jpg' align="left" /></a> www.ukcarbroker.co.uk is offering discounts of up to £3,997.50, together with 0% finance with repayments over 2 years with a down-payment of 35%. All CR-Vs are UK supplied by a UK Main dealer with free delivery, Full Manufacture warranty and all UK Car Broker prices include 1 years VED.       HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC SE-T 5dr £18,617.00 £3,273.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC SE 5dr £17,465.00 £3,145.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC SE 5dr Auto £18,662.00 £3,278.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC SE-T 5dr Auto £19,814.00 £3,406.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC ES 5dr £18,846.50 £3,298.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC ES 5dr Auto £20,043.50 £3,431.51        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC ES-T 5dr £19,998.50 £3,426.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC ES-T 5dr Auto £21,195.50 £3,559.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC EX 5dr £22,100.00 £3,660.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC EX 5dr Auto £23,297.00 £3,793.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC EX 5dr [Advanced Safety Pack] £23,940.50 £3,864.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.0 i-VTEC EX 5dr Auto [Advanced Safety Pack] £25,137.50 £3,997.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC SE 5dr £20,440.50 £2,174.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC SE 5dr Auto £21,677.50 £2,307.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC SE-T 5dr £21,592.50 £2,302.49        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC SE-T 5dr Auto £22,829.50 £2,435.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC ES 5dr £21,822.00 £2,328.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC ES 5dr Auto £23,059.00 £2,461.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC ES-T 5dr £22,974.00 £2,456.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC ES-T 5dr Auto £24,211.00 £2,589.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC EX 5dr £25,075.50 £2,689.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC EX 5dr Auto £26,312.50 £2,822.50        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC EX 5dr [Advanced Safety Pack] £26,916.00 £2,894.00        HONDA CR-V 4x4 2.2 i-DTEC EX 5dr Auto [Advanced Safety Pack] £28,153.00 £3,027.00  UK Car Broker will take Part exchanges.Simply complete the online part exchange section at  www.ukcarbroker.co.uk  for a firm valuation.       http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/deals/2010-03/honda-cr-v <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/deals/2010-03/honda-cr-v'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062170/hon cr-v 2010 f34 700.jpg' /></a> Fleet and nearly-new only values that improved in static February market 45436 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/auctions/2010-03/ford-fiesta'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062266/auctions bca 58 reg fiesta 700.jpg' align="left" /></a>   BCA’s Pulse report shows that average used car values rose marginally in February, increasing by under half a percent compared to January’s figure to £5,959. Average values rose in the fleet/lease and nearly-new sub-sectors, with values falling by just £10 in the part-exchange market. The o verall average value for cars sold in February was £5,959   – a month-on-month increase of £20 (0.3%) compared to January’s figure of £5,939.   CAP performance improved by one and half points to 98.87% in February. Values remain ahead year-on-year by £388 (a 6.9% increase), although this disparity is reducing sharply as values are now being compared to the recovering marketplace of 12 months ago.    To put that into context, year-on-year figures were ahead by over 15% in January and 29% in December.   Average values rose in two of the three main product sectors: Fleet & Lease values rose by £105 (1.4%) to £7,364 and N early-New values improved by £1,085 to £18,922 – a 6.0% rise to the second highest point on record. Part-Exchange values were virtually unchanged, falling by just £11 to £2,658 with budget models feeling the pressure.  Model-mix prevented the average monthly increase being much higher as volumes in the cheaper part-exchange sector rose by 16% (following a significant 45% increase last month).   Fleet & Lease and Nearly-New volumes were broadly in line with last month. BCA Communications Director Tony Gannon commented “Supply and demand remains well balanced in the used market, and February has been a much more typical month following the weather-affected start to the year.    Fleets are the winners this month as values continue to show consistent growth, thanks to limited supplies and strong demand.   It was a little surprising to see budget values stutter, but with supplies increasing substantially for the second month running, demand did well to keep up.” Fleet & Lease Sector – February   Average Fleet & Lease values rose for the second month running, with £105 (1.4%) added to the average value in February.   Values increased from £7,259 to £7,364, while performance against CAP Clean improved for the third month running, rising by two points to 98.6%.   Year-on-year values remain ahead by £1,078, compared to the £1,500+ increase recorded last month – BCA expect this figure to fall sharply in the months ahead.    Fleet & Lease – by sector   Looking at fleet and lease product by sector, the rise in value was across the board.   Budget fleet values recorded a nominal £5 rise, improving to £3,535.    Volume fleet product rose by £35 to £5,515 (0.6%) with premium fleet stock improving by £397 to £10,536 and recording the biggest percentage rise with a 3.7% increase. Part Exchange Sector – February Average Part-Exchange values fell by just £11 in February, to £2,658.   P/X sold volumes at auction increased from January (up 16.2%), which shows that demand broadly kept pace with the additional supply.   Performance against CAP also improved but by just half a point to 96.13%, after leaping by nearly five points in January Looking at P/X product in detail, premium P/X cars rose by £83 to £4,662 (up 1.8%), volume P/X values improved from £1,849 to £1,872 (up 1.2%), while budget P/X values fell by £118 to £1,355 (down a significant 8.7%).  Nearly-New Sector - February Nearly-New values at BCA in February improved by £1,085 to £18,922 – a 6.0% rise to the second highest point on record.   With lower numbers than the fleet and part-exchange sectors, model mix has a greater role to play and BCA recorded some significant results for nearly-new cars in both manufacturer closed sales and Top Car and Prestige sales during February.   Performance against CAP Clean was unmoved at just under 103%.  Published by BCA All material © BCA 2005-2010   Website: www.bca-europe.com         Meanwhile, Manheim reports that fleet values fall by 2.8% in February as average used car wholesale values stabilise   Manheim Remarketing’s latest Market Analysis for Cars reports that average wholesale values in the Fleet sector fell by 2.8% (£184) to £6,425 in February compared with the previous month, while overall values stabilised with an increase of just 0.3% (£21) to £7,208. Dealer part exchange values fell by 0.6% (£14) to £2,198 while Manufacturer stock increased by 4.0% (£502) to £12,940.   In February the only vehicle segment to show an overall increase in average values in all three sectors was Superminis with a rise of 3.9% (£143 to £3,770) in the Fleet sector, 4.4% (£59 to £1,408) in the Dealer sector and 6.8% (£319 to £5,034) in the Manufacturer sector. In contrast the Executive segment was the only one to suffer a decrease in values in all three sectors with falls of 5.7% (£669 to £11,020), 1.8% (£58 to £3,126) and 4.5% (£879 to 18,488) respectively.   Within the Fleet sector, examples of notable decreases in values include: ·        Medium Family down 1.7%   (£102) to £5,793 ·        Large Family down   3.7% (£191) to £5,016 ·        Compact Executive down 8.2% (£748) to £8,343 ·        4x4 down 7.6% (£1,036) to £12,607.       Notable increases in Dealer part-exchange values include: ·        Medium Family up 1.4% (£29) to£2,108 ·        Compact Executive up 2.0% (£65) to £3,266 Examples of decreases in values include: ·        Large Family down 4.3% (£79) to £1,751 ·        Mini-MPV down 1.2% (£29) to £2,317   In the Manufacturer sector notable increases include: ·        Medium Family up 4.3% (£421) to £10,271 ·        Large Family up 13.6% (£1,509) to £12,620 ·        4x4 up 12.6% (£2,300) to £20,503 Examples of decreases in values include: ·        Small Hatchbacks down 1.3% (£111) to £8,648 ·        Compact Executive down 1.2% (£196) to £16,466   Mike Pilkington, Managing Director, Manheim Remarketing said: “The message from the February market is clearly one of stability. Whilst there was a drop in values in the Fleet sector, this was influenced by a rise in the average mileage and an increase of three months in the average age of stock that came through our 20 remarketing centres. The inclement weather, although better than January, failed to deter buyers with both physical and online attendances remaining strong. The continued success of our new super-centre at Bruntingthorpe confirmed the appetite of motor trade buyers for quality Fleet stock and the rise in values by 4% within the Manufacturer sector indicates a healthy demand from franchised dealers”. More at  Manheim     http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/auctions/2010-03/ford-fiesta <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/auctions/2010-03/ford-fiesta'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062266/auctions bca 58 reg fiesta 700.jpg' /></a> Prius enjoys best ever sales 45422 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/prius-enjoys-best-ever-sales'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3061820/60021toy.jpg' align="left" /></a> Despite the widely publicised recall woes that Toyota has suffered, the Prius notched up its best ever sales month in the UK in February. The Toyota hybrid sold 538 cars in February 2010, easily beating its previous best of 237 in the same month in 2008. Toyota says this is affirmation that customers still have faith in Toyota's quality and the benefits of the petrol-electric hybrid power used in the Prius. More than 1.6 million Prius models have been sold since the car was launched in 1997 and it's been Japan's best selling car for the past nine months. The latest Prius has also been shortlisted for The World Car of the Year 2010. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/prius-enjoys-best-ever-sales <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/prius-enjoys-best-ever-sales'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3061820/60021toy.jpg' /></a> Get yourself a personal shopper 45431 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/get-yourself-a-personal-shopper'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062154/088525100_1247490457.jpg' align="left" /></a> Car Enquiry has been set up to offer car buyers a personal shopping service. The free service offers to find the car you want from dealers all around the UK and get the car at the best possible price. The service from www.carenquiry.co.uk works for both new and used cars, although only cars from franchised dealers are searched. Car Enquiry says this guarantees all cars it finds have verified histories. A buyer's details are also kept private from dealers until the user decides to buy a car and the service puts you in touch with the dealer. Paul Boddington, founder of Car Enquiry, said: 'With all the horror stories today of car cloning and rouge traders, we wanted to offer car buyers a safe and trusted buying environment, where we do the searching for you.' The service from Car Enquiry can also help you sell your existing car by finding dealers who are interested in buying it and sending you their offers so you can pick the best. http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/get-yourself-a-personal-shopper <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/get-yourself-a-personal-shopper'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062154/088525100_1247490457.jpg' /></a> Alfa MiTo MultiAir 45413 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/alfa-romeo/alfa-mito-multiair'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062737/alfa mito multi f34 2 700.jpg' align="left" /></a> We’ve done the MiTo before. Last January, actually. Then again in the summer because the weather was so bad first time round I couldn’t make a proper film. But since then the MiTo has acquired a pair of new engines that are vitally important for Alfa, for FIAT, and perhaps, without exaggeration, for the World. They are called MultiAir. And what this means is a new and completely different way of getting more air into an engine than was previously possible. More air means better combustion, which in turn means more power, better fuel economy and lower emissions. That’s actually 12% more power, 10% better fuel economy, 11% less CO2, with the beneficial side effects of 15% more torque (or ‘pulling power’) at low revs and 50% less ‘turbo lag’. As Massimo Fulfaro explained, electro hydraulic solenoids control the opening and closing of the intake vales, constantly keeping the throttle body open. Unlike mechanical variable valve timing, it’s completely failsafe because if it fails the valves close, so the pistons can’t hit them. And that’s just the engine. The 170PS MiTo Cloverleaf also gets active suspension. Four sensors monitor the suspension at the front strut tops and the hubs, while a firth sensor monitors the rear suspension, constantly assessing what type of road surface the car is being driven on and what demands the driver is making of the car. They then optimise the way the car responds by means of electronically controlled dampers. So this is a very sophisticated car. And, as with all Alfa Romeo MiTos you still get ‘DNA’ which enables you to tailor the car’s driving characteristics. You can choose ‘Dynamic’ for a more sporting drive, ‘Normal’ for suburban and town driving, and ‘All Weather’ for maximum safety, especially in low grip conditions. We had it in ‘All Weather’ mode, and to me it felt as if each tyre was made of glue. The levels of grip for a front wheel drive car were truly astonishing. But, more than that, it seemed to have acquired some communication skills that previous MiTos felt to me to have lacked. Even though grip levels were amazing, you could feel exactly the point they ran out and you needed to make a minor adjustment to stay on the road. Very fast, very safe, very confidence inspiring. On standard 215/45 R17 tyres it even rides well on broken surfaces. Truly great. Philippe Krief, the chassis engineer responsible, deserves the Italian equivalent of a knighthood. On top of that the 170PS MultiAir is a joyful engine. Responsive, yet   tractable. 0-60 in 7.3 seconds and a top end of 136mph is pretty good for a 1.4 watercooled turbo. And the price of £17,895,isn’t silly either for such a complete package. Blue & Me and the usual, now reliable, Alfa/FIAT sophistications are all there. Pair your phone to the car and it automatically turns the car into your phone whenever you start up. You don’t get standard satnav, though. In comparison, the £1,760 cheaper MiTo MultiAir 135 Veloce is relatively, though not totally, disappointing. You get the benefit of a MultiAir engine, very low 129g/km CO2 and an excellent 50.4mpg combined (the 170 Cloverleaf pumps out 139g/km and does 47.1mpg combined). It’s just as flexible as the 170. But you only get five gears instead of six. And no active suspension, so it rides and handles pretty much the same as the original MiTos of a year ago. Which isn’t bad. But isn’t sensational, like the Cloverleaf in ‘All Weather’ mode. Coming soon, there will be an option for the 135 called ‘TCT’, that stands for ‘Twin Clutch Transmission’ and the description reads as if it uses the same technology as VAG’s DSG / S-tronic and Ford/Getrag’s Powershift. FIAT’s Dualogic semi-automatic is already the best semi-auto,, so the TCT should be good too and brings with it the benefit of slightly better economy and lower CO2 than the 135’s standard 5-speed manual. But the car for me remains the 170 Cloverleaf. It’s not an Alfa like Alfas used to be (and I’ve owned a few Alfas). Instead, it offers exciting new technology that really works. And that’s my kind of car.     http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/alfa-romeo/alfa-mito-multiair <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/road-tests/alfa-romeo/alfa-mito-multiair'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3062737/alfa mito multi f34 2 700.jpg' /></a> New car emissions fall by record margin 45411 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/new-car-emissions-fall-by-record-margin'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3061557/60001fia.jpg' align="left" /></a> New car emissions fell by a receard-breaking 5.4% in 2009 due to the Scrappage Incentive Scheme and the effects of the recession, says the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Carbon dioxide emissions fell from an average of 157.5g/km in 2008 to 2009's 149.5g/km, and this latest figure is some 21.2% better than the base figure set in 1997. The biggest improvements came in the MPV and 4x4 classes where average carbon dioxide output dropped by 28.6- and 27.4% respectively compared to their 1997 levels. Biggest improvement over the 12 months of 2009 compared to the previous period in 2008 were minis and sports car, which fell by 6.7% and 6.3% respectively. This marks a 12 th consecutive years of falling CO2 figures for cars sold in the UK and cars sold under the Scrappage Incentive Scheme had average CO2 emissions of 133.3g/km. Paul Everitt, chief executive of the SMMT, said: 'Vehicle manufacturers have invested heavily in both improving technologies and bringing advanced systems to market that reduce the environmental impact of new vehicles.' http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/new-car-emissions-fall-by-record-margin <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/new-car-emissions-fall-by-record-margin'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3061557/60001fia.jpg' /></a> 330,000 cars registered under Scrappage Scheme 45410 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/330000-cars-registered-under-scrappage-scheme'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3061541/090310smt.jpg' align="left" /></a> More than 330,000 car and commercial customers took advantage of the Scrappage Incentive Scheme while it was active. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has announced that a total of 330,451 cars and commercial vehicles were sold through the scheme to the end of February 2010. A total of 324,991 cars were sold through the scheme, which the SMMT says had an average carbon dioxide output of 27% less than the vehicle that was scrapped. The average CO2 figure for cars bought under the scrappage scheme is 133g/km, which is 9.9% less than the average for the whole of the new car market in the UK. Most of the cars bought through the scheme were city cars and superminis, numbering 73% of all cars sold under the scheme between May 2009 and February 2010. This was against the same two classes making up 42% of overall new car sales in the same period. Small hatches and family class vehicles accounted for the majority of the remainder. However, there were also small but significant sales for 4x4s and multi-purpose vehicles. Petrol-engined cars were most popular for people buying with a scrappage incentive deal, with petrol making up 84% of sales against 58% for total UK cars sales during the period the Scrappage Incentive Scheme was running. The SMMT's chief executive Paul Everitt commented: 'The scrappage scheme has provided vital stimulus during a difficult period. The industry must now work to sustain this momentum and is urging the government to postpone the introduction of the first year rate of VED an avoid dampening demand while the economic recovery remains fragile.' http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/330000-cars-registered-under-scrappage-scheme <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/buying-and-selling/2010-03/330000-cars-registered-under-scrappage-scheme'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3061541/090310smt.jpg' /></a> Performance and economy upgrade for Impreza Diesel 45408 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/performance-and-economy-upgrade-for-impreza-diesel'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3061493/080310unic.jpg' align="left" /></a> Subaru's Impreza Diesel can have its engine power increased to 168bhp while enjoying improved fuel consumption thanks to a new engine chip. The Unichip U-Connect upgrade for the turbodiesel Impreza increases fuel economy by as much as 10% claims the company. Designed as a 'plug and play' chip, it can be fitted by the car's owner or by Unichip, and it can also be removed in minutes to return the car to its standard specification. There is also an improvement in engine torque to 292lb ft at 2500rpm to help with the Impreza's overtaking ability and low-speed performance. The Unichip U-Connect chip costs £465.30 for owners to install themselves and is available from wwwunichipeurope.co.uk.      http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/performance-and-economy-upgrade-for-impreza-diesel <a href='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-models/2010-03/performance-and-economy-upgrade-for-impreza-diesel'><img src='http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/width/110/media/3061493/080310unic.jpg' /></a>