Archive for April, 2009
Thursday, April 30th, 2009
Renault is offering 0 per cent APR typical finance over 3 years across the much of the range including the Twingo (excluding Freeway & Extreme versions), Clio (excluding Extreme & Renaultsport versions), Modus and Grand Modus, Kangoo, New Mégane Hatch, New Mégane Coupe, Mégane, Scénic and Grand Scénic, Laguna Hatch and Sport Tourer, New Laguna Coupé, Koleos and Espace and Grand Espace.
With NIL deposit, these great finance deals are available now.
To find great offers on Renault cars, visit SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk.
To search for great leasing deals on Renault vehicles search ContractHireAndLeasing.com
Read reviews of Renault cars on RoadTestReports.co.uk
Contact your dealer about this offer.
Free Payment Protection Cover is also available.
Posted in Renault | No Comments »
Thursday, April 30th, 2009
Industry experts who are wondering what effect scrappage will have on car sales might want to use Hyundai as a barometer. In the first week after the announcement, enquiries at the company’s dealerships are up 400 percent, with buyers clamouring to make sure they can secure cars before stocks – or the government money – run out.
Read Hyundai reviews on RoadTestReports.co.uk
Although dealers aren’t yet allowed to take orders under the scheme officially, they are noting ‘expressions of interest’ which will allow customers to reserve cars from existing stock.
Hyundai dealers have also been supplied with a provisional scrappage price list, allowing customers to see what a new Hyundai can be expected to cost including the government and manufacturer allowances.
As expected, it is the i10 and i20 models which are attracting the most attention from buyers. An entry level i10, complete with air conditioning and the new 77bhp 1.2-litre engine, is predicted to cost just £4,995 with the scrappage allowance (£1,000 from the government, £1,100 from Hyundai). Alternatively, an i20 three-door could well be had for £5,995 (£1,000 from the government and £1,200 from Hyundai).
Tony Whitehorn, Hyundai UK’s managing director said: “It seems that a few big-name manufacturers are still prevaricating about scrappage. While they have been scratching their heads and confusing customers, we’ve been only too happy to show hundreds of potential buyers how a new Hyundai is within their reach.”
The Korean company has drawn on its experiences in the German market, where a scrappage scheme has been in place since January and Hyundai sales have leapt up by 140 percent.
Mr Whitehorn continued: “We’ve just had a delivery of 800 i10s and i20s and we will get them out to dealers in time for mid-May when the scheme is expected to go live. We expect these, and our existing stocks, to sell quickly though and so are negotiating with the factory to secure more production and keep up with the expected demand. This is a great opportunity for car buyers to move up to a cleaner, safer and more reliable new car and we don’t want to disappoint a single customer.”
Search Hyundai deals on SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk
Search Hyundai leasing deals on ContractHireAndLeasing.com
Posted in Hyundai | No Comments »
Thursday, April 30th, 2009
With only a few days remaining in its first month of sales, the Honda Insight is outselling its competitors in the hybrid market.
Since the affordable hybrid car went on sale on 4 April, 229 Insights have been sold in the UK, ahead of its nearest rival the Toyota Prius (198 units). Together with Civic Hybrid (79 units), Honda (UK) has sold 308 hybrid family cars this month, despite April being known as one of the quietest months in the sales calendar.
To find out just what the Insight is really like, our road tester, Craig Thomas took it for a spin, read his review on RoadTestReports.co.uk to find out what he made of it.
“The Insight is proving a hit with cost-savvy consumers looking for a cleaner car that’s more affordable,” said John Kingston, Honda (UK)’s Environment and Government Affairs Manager. “More and more people want a car that makes sound financial sense, especially in the current economic climate, and the Insight offers numerous running cost savings such as reduced road tax of £15 per year and great fuel economy.”
Insight customers will also benefit from high residual values of 44 per cent and exemption from the London Congestion Charge. Company car drivers and businesses can take advantage of the same benefits plus low benefit-in-kind tax, reduced national insurance payments and increased write down allowance.
Honda expects to sell around 7,000 Insights in the UK this year. The annual global sales target is approximately 200,000 units. The Insight 1.3-litre IMA SE costs £15,490 on-the-road.
Honda Insight to lease on ContractHireAndLeasing.com
Honda Insight to buy on SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk
Posted in Honda | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009
Following two months of record price rises in the used car market values are now stabilising according to CAP Black Book, the benchmark trade guide to used car pricing.
It marks the apparent end of a year of extreme volatility, beginning after Easter 2008 with the sharpest sustained downturn in memory and switching to an unprecedented upturn from January to April this year.
It means used car trade prices have clawed back some of the value lost during the downturn, taking them back to November 2008 levels.
One of the main drivers for stronger used values this year has been a shortage of used car stock, caused by a combination of few part-exchanges due to the slump in new car sales, lower production leading to fewer late plate cars and the extension of some leasing contracts keeping fleet cars out of the market. More volume is, however, expected to enter the market during the next few weeks as confidence among disposers continues to grow.
Many dealerships and dealer groups were reporting stock levels typically in the region of 30 to 50 per cent lower than they would prefer during April. As well as the frequently reported general shortage of cars in the open marketplace dealer stockturn has also seen considerable improvements, typically reducing from 90 to 45 days. It is now noticeable that those franchise dealers who are not constrained by manufacturer standards rules are routinely displaying multiple brands on the forecourt, where normally their own badge would be almost exclusively represented.
The end of the first quarter’s clamour for stock, however, is signalled by leasing company average conversion rates reducing from their highest ever level of 95.4 per cent a few weeks ago to 86.6 per cent this month – although this is 14 per cent higher than at this point last year.
The relative performance of different car sectors has been maintained, with 4x4s enjoying the strongest rises in value and superminis and city cars seeing the smallest change. This is still believed to represent a typical ‘bounce’ following a sharp slump, with those vehicles which lost the most value seeing the strongest recovery.
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009
The next generation Toyota Prius will have class-leading CO2 emissions, at just 89g/km of CO2 and 72.4mpg official combined cycle. This places it in second place as the cleanest conventionally-fuelled vehicles just behind the smart fortwo CDi which achieves 88g/km of CO2 but offers a fraction of the space of the Pruis.
The new Prius offers a system power improvement of 22 per cent to 134bhp, fuel economy improved of 10 per cent and CO2 emissions reduced by 14 per cent compared to the current model. As the world’s first mass produced hybrid, the new Prius comes with a whole host of improvements on the old model including a next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive system. The new system features comprehensive improvements with 90 per cent of the hybrid drive components redesigned to create a lighter, more compact system that delivers more power, uses less fuel in real-world conditions and which operates better in cold weather.
“The new-generation Prius is the most advanced mainstream car on the market. Prius builds on more than 10 years of history and will remain the undisputed reference point for hybrid technology. Beyond confirming its environmental leadership, the new-generation Prius sets new standards in terms of status, innovation, design and driving pleasure. New Prius will further enhance the appeal of the Toyota brand by creating affinity with an even broader audience.” Andrea Formica, Senior Vice President, Toyota Motor Europe said.
Unlike parallel or ‘mild’ hybrids, which use additional electric motor power purely to boost petrol engine performance, or ‘series’ hybrids, which rely on electric power alone to drive the wheels, new Prius is a full hybrid capable of running in petrol and electric modes alone, as well as a combination of both.
That means it delivers the energy-saving benefits of a series hybrid combined with the performance benefits of a parallel hybrid. It gives new Prius seamless acceleration and remarkably quiet operation, while also returning class-leading fuel efficiency and ultra-low emissions.
Prius’s characteristic, sweeping monobox profile is maintained on the new model, with attention paid to minimising panel gaps, giving the door and glazing seals a smooth profile and sculpting aerodynamically efficient door mirrors. Even the lamp clusters and front air intakes have been painstakingly detailed to optimise air flow and minimise wind turbulence.
The result is an exceptionally aerodynamic vehicle, with the coefficient of drag improving from Cd 0.26 (for the second generation Prius) to Cd 0.25.
In spite of increased competition, Prius sales have accelerated in recent years, with more than 41,000 sold in Europe in 2008 alone. The new model goes on sale in the UK this summer.
For more information on the Toyota Prius, visit TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk.
Toyota Prius deals on SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk.
Toyota Pruis leasing deals on ContractHireAndLeasing.com
Posted in Toyota | No Comments »
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009
More than half of Britain’s motorists would struggle to pay if their car broke down, according to research from leading insurance specialist, Warranty Direct.
As the credit crunch continues to ravage the economy, 53 percent of drivers admit that the tightening of belts means they can ill afford the average repair bill of £273. According to Warranty Direct data, one in three will suffer a mechanical failure annually.
Although nearly three quarters (72 per cent) of the 3,000 owners surveyed claim that they would be lost without their cars, more than 5 million said budgets were so tight that they wouldn’t be able to stump up anything at all to keep their car on the road.
“This is worrying – some motorists are just burying their heads in the sand,” said Warranty Direct’s Duncan McClure Fisher. “In the short term you might save a bit of cash by not servicing your car, but eventually it is going to need work doing on it and you’re only increasing the likelihood that it’s going to be a very expensive repair job on a ‘mobility-fatal’ part.”
The research also found that a third of owners are now considering extending their service interval this year to save money.
Ironically, drivers in rural Northern Ireland and the North West, who say they are most dependant on their cars (84 per cent and 80 per cent respectively), are also the least able to pay in the event of a breakdown, with 59 pre cent of motorists in both areas unable to meet the average repair cost.
Car owners in more affluent areas like London, the South East and East Anglia, are the most likely to be able to pay for ‘mobility-fatal’ failures, with drivers in the capital the most comfortable with the loss of their cars, at 2 in 5.
Posted in Latest news | No Comments »
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009
Situated in a superb location next to the famous Kingsholm Stadium, home of the Gloucester Rugby Team, this latest addition to Hyundai’s nationwide dealer network will provide the Gloucestershire area.
Hyundai has confirmed the appointment of a new dealership in Gloucester. For the last 25 years the business has solely held a Saab franchise but as customer requirements change the showroom will now hold five Hyundai models and three Saabs.
Sales Director of Gloucester Hyundai Neil Marfell said: “We knew we had to make a change for our own business and our customers. People want more for their money in this current time and Hyundai offers just that without scrimping on the extras. I have been very impressed with the quality of the vehicles.”
Developments to accommodate Hyundai at the Kingsholm site include a new showroom featuring Hyundai’s latest corporate identity, plus an extensive parts department, which will service both trade and retail customers. The premises also include a modern workshop featuring the latest in high-tech equipment.
The new look creates an environment that reflects the Hyundai brand values of True Quality Matters. It gives the perfect environment to present the vehicles, cater for customers’ needs and gives staff a motivating place of work.
Neil added: “We have stayed true to our central values of excellent customer service, outstanding quality of goods and integrity. The Hyundai franchise will allow us to bring these values to a bigger audience.”
The appointment of Hyundai Gloucester brings the number of Hyundai dealers in Britain up to 133.
Car leasing deals on Hyundai cars on ContractHireAndLeasing.com
Cheap new and nearly new Hyundai cars on SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk.
Posted in Hyundai | No Comments »
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009
The New Car Code of Practice, which has delivered improved standards of customer care to new car buyers since its launch in 2004, is to be brought into the Motor Codes family in a move to give consumers a one-stop shop for self-regulated codes of practice in the motor trade.
The Code, which became the first in any industry to gain ‘full approval’ from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) after it laid down a set of tough new criteria to tighten up consumer protection and offer peace of mind to consumers dealing with a code subscriber, is a success story of self-regulation in action. All vehicle manufacturers selling in the UK demonstrated their commitment to the UK and in 2008, 98.9 per cent of all new cars registered in the UK were covered by this assurance.
The Motor Industry Code of Practice for New Cars confirms promises made by vehicle makers in the provision of new cars and the cover provided by the manufacturer’s warranty. The consumer code sets out standards that subscribers will comply with the following areas:
• Advertising
• New car sales
• Car manufacturer’s warranties
• Availability of replacement parts
• Complaints handling
“The New Car Code is a shining example of how vehicle manufacturers have worked with the OFT and consumer lobby to improve business methods to the benefit of consumers,” said Motor Codes director Chris Mason. “It was the first consumer code of practice to receive OFT approval under its Consumer Codes Approval Scheme and we believe that its proven success will help reinforce the aims of the Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair1 and future consumer protection schemes under the Motor Codes brand.”
In transferring to the Motor Codes Ltd group, the New Car Code joins the Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair which was launched to consumers last summer, regulating the level of service motorists receive from franchised and independent garages. Both codes have received the backing of trade bodies and consumer groups.
Gareth Thomas, minister for consumer affairs said: “The New Car Code has been an industry success story with nearly 99 per cent of cars sold in 2008 covered by the standards. Consumers and businesses have benefited from it for the last five years. I also encourage garages, especially independents, to sign up to the Code of Practice for Service and Repair, which was launched last year and has already seen much support across the industry.”
What is the Motor Industry Code of Practice for New Cars?
• A confirmation of the promises made by vehicle manufacturers in the provision of new cars and the cover provided by the manufacturer’s warranty.
• An industry-wide, self-regulating Code of Practice to provide a self-regulatory regime by which vehicle manufacturers can demonstrate their intention to operate as responsible businesses, and have in place a cost-effective and speedy dispute resolution service that consumers can readily access in the event of a disagreement.
• Guidance on how to approach car makers to gain customer satisfaction.
Advice to consumers
• If the response does not meet the expectation of the consumer, they should contact Motor Codes on local rate number 0870 751 8270.
• Copies of the Code and a brief guide to it are available to download from http://newcars.motorindustrycodes.co.uk where consumers can also submit enquiries using online enquiry forms.
Posted in Latest news | No Comments »
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009
Toyota’s rapidly expanding UK model line-up gains another new member this week with the sales launch of new Verso, bringing more style, space, safety and advanced equipment features to the compact MPV segment.
The third generation of the seven-seat Verso goes on sale on May 1, priced from £16,750 on the road. With a new look inside and out which translates to larger external and wheelbase dimensions providing added comfort for those on board. This particularly handy for rear seat passengers who have significantly more head and legroom. There is also substantially more load space, even with all three rows of seats in place.
Shifting the balance between seat and storage space is easier than ever before, thanks to an improved version of Toyota’s Easy Flat-7 system, making flat-folding of each rear seat a simple one-touch operation.
In common with all new Toyota models, new Verso benefits from Toyota Optimal Drive powertrains across the entire range, giving stronger performance but lower emissions and improved economy compared to the previous model. The new 1.8-Valvematic petrol engine, available with a new six-speed manual gearbox or Multimode S CVT system, musters an additional 18bhp compared to the 1.8 VVT-i unit it replaces, while bringing CO2 emissions down by 19g/km to 165g/km (manual) and gaining an extra 3.7 miles from a gallon of fuel with an official 40.4mpg in combined cycle driving.
The 125bhp (126 DIN hp) 2.0-litre D-4D engine has been revised with new piezo-electric injectors and higher injection pressure, helping achieve higher torque performance and lower emissions. A 2.2-litre D-CAT 150 engine with Toyota’s four-way DPNR clean diesel catalyst system will join the range later this year, offered with a new six-speed automatic transmission.
New Verso is available in a three-grade model range: T2, TR and T Spirit. T2 models come equipped with five airbags (including curtain airbags protecting all three rows of seats), air conditioning, four-speaker audio with steering wheel-mounted controls, Easy Flat-7 folding rear seats, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, electric front windows and body coloured bumpers and doorhandles.
TR grade, which will account for around 73 per cent of sales, includes Bluetooth, an Aux-in socket for connecting personal music players, additional driver and front passenger side airbags, leather steering wheel and gear knob trim, electric rear windows, front foglights and 16-inch alloy wheels.
T Spirit models gain premium features such as climate control, automatic windscreen wipers and headlights, Smart Entry and Start, cruise control and 17-inch alloys. The auto-dimming rear view mirror includes an integrated display which shows real-time images relayed from the car’s rear parking camera.
Key options include a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery and two satellite navigation systems. TR models can be specified with a DVD-based system with Bluetooth, while T Spirit versions can be equipped with hard disk drive (HDD) system with a seven-inch colour touch-screen display. The HDD also provides a music storage function, so owners can create their personal on-board juke box.
Be the first to review the new Verso on RoadTestReports.co.uk.
Search SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk for the best deals on the new Toyota Verso
Search ContractHireAndLeasing.com for the best car leasing deals on the Toyota Verso.
Posted in Toyota | No Comments »
Monday, April 27th, 2009
Market-leading new car website, SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk saw a 30 per cent increase in traffic last week folllowing the announcement of the scrappage incentive last week as part of the Chancellor’s Budget report.
The scrappage incentive which will give motorists £2,000 towards the cost of a new car when they scrap their ten-year or older car has already helped to rekindle interest in the new car market.
New car registrations were down 30.5 per cent last month. The incentive is expected to boost new car sales and give the industry and wider economy a much needed bost.
SaveMoneyOnCars.co.uk is independently verified as one of the top five busiest sites for new and nearly new car offers in the UK, offering the most competitive deals from a range of sources including some of the UK’s largest car supermarkets, independent brokers and main dealers.
Posted in Latest news | No Comments »
