2013 Land Rover DefenderHas a revised color palette and upgraded interior
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Selasa, 04 September 2012
2013 Land Rover Defender gets minor updates 2013 Land Rover Defender gets minor updates
2013 Land Rover DefenderHas a revised color palette and upgraded interior
On the styling front, the model gains two new exterior colors (Barolo Black and Havana) and a variety of contrasting roofs (Fuji White, Santorini Black, Indus Silver, Orkney Grey and Firenze Red).
Inside, there's new fabric / leather front seats, Bluetooth connectivity and an optional Alpine audio system with a subwoofer.
Since the model received powertrain updates for 2012, engine options carryover.
The 2013 Land Rover Defender goes on sale later this month and U.K. pricing starts at £22,350.
Source: Land Rover
Tesla considering an electric supercar - report
Tesla Roadster
Could come as early as 2016
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has revealed that the company is considering an electric supercar.
Details are limited, but the model would reportedly compete with
vehicles from Lamborghini and Ferrari. It would also have to battle
other electric supercars like the Audi R8 e-tron and Mercedes SLS AMG E-Cell.
According to Musk, "We will do an electric supercar at some point. It was going to happen right after the Model X, but it is more important to the world that we do a more affordable
electric car [first]." He added, "Hopefully, we will get to an electric
supercar in four to five yea
G-Power M3 SK III (E92) with 720 HP - photo appreciation
BMW M3 by G-Power
The next generation of the BMW M3 is scheduled to debut next year at the Geneva Motor Show but until then you can feast your eyes once again on this custom M3 tuned by G-Power. It’s not your ordinary tuning program because the engineers managed to
increase the original 4.0 displacement of the V8 engine to 4.6 liters by
installing a new crankshaft and pistons from Mahle.
Same as the previously announced M3 Tornado RS, G-Power
also fitted the M3 with a SK III ASA T1-723 supercharger and made some
modifications to the exhaust and the air intake. Thanks to these
significant modifications, the V8 4.6-liter engine of this BMW M3 is
capable of producing no less than 720 HP (537 kW), enough for a 0-62 mph
sprint in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 205.5 mph (330 km/h).
This tuning program is not all about increasing the
HP figure as G-Power has also fitted the M3 with a Clubsport adjustable
suspension and installed 20-inch Silverstone Diamond wheels wrapped
around in Michelin tires. Carbon fiber was used for the boot lid and the hood, while a front bumper lip spoiler was added as a final touch.
Source: G-Power
2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and Wrangler Moab announced
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk concept
Designed to tackle the toughest terrain
Jeep has announced plans to offer two new special editions.
First up, the Wrangler Moab is named after the popular off-roading destination in Utah. It is based
on the Sahara and features a power dome hood, heavy-duty bumpers and
special badging. There's also a Trak-Lok rear differential and 17-inch
alloy wheels with Goodyear Silent Armor tires.
Despite the model's rugged nature, the interior has leather seats, Iron Gray trim and a "Moab" embossed grab handle.
On the other hand, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is the production version of the concept that was introduced at the 2012 Easter Jeep Safari. It features grey
accents, a black hood decal and 18-inch aluminum wheels. The model is
also equipped with a Quadra-Lift air suspension, Selec-Terrain traction
control and an electronically limited rear differential (on V8 models
only).
Interior changes are limited, but include leather / suede seats and Mopar floor mats.
www.worldcarfans.com
Rabu, 25 Juli 2012
Skoda Fabia vRS car review
If you’ve owned a Fabia vRS before, this new one will
come as a surprise. Not only is it petrol powered where the previous car
had a diesel motor. It also has a DSG gearbox – which can be left to
pick its own gears but also gives the option for you to choose them by
nudging paddles fitted just behind the wheel rim.
Its engine is an amazing thing, pushing out 180bhp from just 1.4-litres. A supercharged spins up to boost its low-revs urge but then a turbocharger takes over as engine speeds build.
So what’s it like to drive? Cracking. It’s agile and quick off the mark, feeling every bit as quick as its acceleration figures suggest. It’s noisy once that little motor gets going but that suits the nature of the car.
It’s an interesting piece of kit, the motor, made as it is to keep emissions output low and fuel economy good. It’ll also be fitted to an upcoming version of Audi’s new small car, the A1 and can also be found in Seat’s Ibiza Bocanegra. In that car it was disappointing – not raw enough and held back by its lack of a manual gearchange.
But here it’s just right, fizzing along at a fair crack and making the best of the Fabia’s considerable talents as a responsive driver-slanted car. And having the DSG gives the vRS two personalities: quick and feisty when you pick the shift points via the paddles, but laidback and friendly whenever you’re content to let the gearbox do the work.
It’s
a good mix, especially when the car’s so comfortable and well set up.
The ride’s an accomplished blend of firmness and smoothness that’s quite
something when you consider this car’s low-pro tyres.
And the car itself looks sharp: wearing all the right racey add-ons but classy and understated inside. The slabby dash is workaday in the way you’d expect of a Skoda but the car’s well equipped. There are six airbags and a full suite of driver aids that even includes a hill holder to keep steady on inclines, a tyre pressure monitor, air conditioning and LED daytime running lights.
All this comes in a cabin that’s on the roomy side, while the Fabia’s boot is a good size and is practically shaped, too.
But if there’s not enough room here, Skoda also sells an estate version of the vRS.
It’s also strong value. While at the price Skoda isn’t quite giving them away, they’re cheaper than equivalents from other Volkswagen-owned brands but, to our minds, always as good and at times better.
Should you buy one? For some, the idea of a performance hatchback without a manual gearbox will raise an objection too far. But if that’s not you, the vRS has everything going for it.
Its engine is an amazing thing, pushing out 180bhp from just 1.4-litres. A supercharged spins up to boost its low-revs urge but then a turbocharger takes over as engine speeds build.
So what’s it like to drive? Cracking. It’s agile and quick off the mark, feeling every bit as quick as its acceleration figures suggest. It’s noisy once that little motor gets going but that suits the nature of the car.
It’s an interesting piece of kit, the motor, made as it is to keep emissions output low and fuel economy good. It’ll also be fitted to an upcoming version of Audi’s new small car, the A1 and can also be found in Seat’s Ibiza Bocanegra. In that car it was disappointing – not raw enough and held back by its lack of a manual gearchange.
But here it’s just right, fizzing along at a fair crack and making the best of the Fabia’s considerable talents as a responsive driver-slanted car. And having the DSG gives the vRS two personalities: quick and feisty when you pick the shift points via the paddles, but laidback and friendly whenever you’re content to let the gearbox do the work.
It’s
a good mix, especially when the car’s so comfortable and well set up.
The ride’s an accomplished blend of firmness and smoothness that’s quite
something when you consider this car’s low-pro tyres.And the car itself looks sharp: wearing all the right racey add-ons but classy and understated inside. The slabby dash is workaday in the way you’d expect of a Skoda but the car’s well equipped. There are six airbags and a full suite of driver aids that even includes a hill holder to keep steady on inclines, a tyre pressure monitor, air conditioning and LED daytime running lights.
All this comes in a cabin that’s on the roomy side, while the Fabia’s boot is a good size and is practically shaped, too.But if there’s not enough room here, Skoda also sells an estate version of the vRS.
It’s also strong value. While at the price Skoda isn’t quite giving them away, they’re cheaper than equivalents from other Volkswagen-owned brands but, to our minds, always as good and at times better.
Should you buy one? For some, the idea of a performance hatchback without a manual gearbox will raise an objection too far. But if that’s not you, the vRS has everything going for it.
- Engines1.4 petrol 4cyl, supercharged and turbocharged
- Power!80bhp
- 0-60 mph7.3secs
- Economy45.6mpg
- CO2g/km148
- Insurance groups
- EuroNCAP
- Airbags6
- Seats5
Source : Motors.co.uk
Selasa, 24 Juli 2012
Nissan 370Z Roadster car review
Nissan’s 370Z is a car you’ll either get completely or
not at all. Here we’ve got the Roadster version so it’s a soft top, two
seats, brawny V6 motor upfront pushing power to the rear wheels.
It’s a quick car in the classic vein. But while most 370Zs sold have steel roofs, the cloth-capped version is no afterthought. While it has the same chassis, it’s full styled and engineered to hold an identity all its own. It’s sleek, muscular and beautifully proportioned. We’d hesitate to call it beautiful but we can see why you might want to. The car’s looks and power hark back to the 240Z, its 1970s ancestor that now has a cult following. Updates of iconic cars often lose something along the way but the 370Z’s the exception – it really does take everything that was good about its forebear and reworks it for 2011, sympathetically and well.
More directly, the 370Z replaces the 350Z in Nissan’s line-up. The resemblance is strong, but it’s shorter, has a bigger engine and is more aggressive.
It’s
a car that’s all about driving, the more so if you go for the Roadster
as we have here. This drops its cloth roof quickly at the press of a
switch and it folds away tidily. Because of the space needed for the
roof when stowed the cabin is even cosier and strictly a two-seater. If
you’re fat or very tall, it could be a squeeze. And the boot’s tiny,
marred by a high lip over which you’ll need to drag your bags. On the
lid there’s a quaint set of instructions explaining how to fit a golf
bag into the space available.
You sit low with a conventional hood instrument cluster ahead and a trio of smaller gauges ranged across the dash top. The 350Z’s cabin drew some criticism for poor quality so the 370Z’s is better. Not class-leading, but now upmarket enough. And at last there's a glove box - something the 350Z hasn't.
Spark
it up and it feels meaty to drive – steering, brakes and throttle have a
satisfying weight. Here, we’re sampling the auto version, which picks
between its seven ratios by itself or lets you do it using paddle shifts
behind the wheel – just as a racing pro might use. It’s a good system
that sits well in the car. Diehards will favour the car’s six speed
manual gearshift, fitted with a clever electronic aid that blips the
throttle for perfect downshifts. At town speeds those big alloys and
skinny-sided tyres crash across potholes but at least the deeply padded
seats filter the worst of the shocks.
Putting the car’s 326bhp through its rear tyres is a challenge for Nissan and one that the 370Z meets ably. Unless you let rip and then, despite all the electronic checks and controls present, you can spin the wheels and see the back slide out. Incidentally, for those same reasons, we can say that it’s a terrible car to drive in snow and ice. By contrast, top down on a sunny car it delivers a life-gladdening drive.
Should you buy one? For what you get, it’s a bargain. As Nissan points up on its web site, in bhp per £ it’s way cheaper than the Audi TT or Porsche Boxster you might otherwise buy. It’ll even retain a fair whack of its value over time, although not quite so much as the Porsche will. But if you want one, it’ll be a simply fantastic thing to own.
It’s a quick car in the classic vein. But while most 370Zs sold have steel roofs, the cloth-capped version is no afterthought. While it has the same chassis, it’s full styled and engineered to hold an identity all its own. It’s sleek, muscular and beautifully proportioned. We’d hesitate to call it beautiful but we can see why you might want to. The car’s looks and power hark back to the 240Z, its 1970s ancestor that now has a cult following. Updates of iconic cars often lose something along the way but the 370Z’s the exception – it really does take everything that was good about its forebear and reworks it for 2011, sympathetically and well.
More directly, the 370Z replaces the 350Z in Nissan’s line-up. The resemblance is strong, but it’s shorter, has a bigger engine and is more aggressive.
It’s
a car that’s all about driving, the more so if you go for the Roadster
as we have here. This drops its cloth roof quickly at the press of a
switch and it folds away tidily. Because of the space needed for the
roof when stowed the cabin is even cosier and strictly a two-seater. If
you’re fat or very tall, it could be a squeeze. And the boot’s tiny,
marred by a high lip over which you’ll need to drag your bags. On the
lid there’s a quaint set of instructions explaining how to fit a golf
bag into the space available.You sit low with a conventional hood instrument cluster ahead and a trio of smaller gauges ranged across the dash top. The 350Z’s cabin drew some criticism for poor quality so the 370Z’s is better. Not class-leading, but now upmarket enough. And at last there's a glove box - something the 350Z hasn't.
Spark
it up and it feels meaty to drive – steering, brakes and throttle have a
satisfying weight. Here, we’re sampling the auto version, which picks
between its seven ratios by itself or lets you do it using paddle shifts
behind the wheel – just as a racing pro might use. It’s a good system
that sits well in the car. Diehards will favour the car’s six speed
manual gearshift, fitted with a clever electronic aid that blips the
throttle for perfect downshifts. At town speeds those big alloys and
skinny-sided tyres crash across potholes but at least the deeply padded
seats filter the worst of the shocks.Putting the car’s 326bhp through its rear tyres is a challenge for Nissan and one that the 370Z meets ably. Unless you let rip and then, despite all the electronic checks and controls present, you can spin the wheels and see the back slide out. Incidentally, for those same reasons, we can say that it’s a terrible car to drive in snow and ice. By contrast, top down on a sunny car it delivers a life-gladdening drive.
Should you buy one? For what you get, it’s a bargain. As Nissan points up on its web site, in bhp per £ it’s way cheaper than the Audi TT or Porsche Boxster you might otherwise buy. It’ll even retain a fair whack of its value over time, although not quite so much as the Porsche will. But if you want one, it’ll be a simply fantastic thing to own.
Engines3.7-litre V6 petrol
- Power326bhp
- 0-60 mph5.8secs
- Economy25.9mpg
- CO2g/km254
- Insurance groups48
- EuroNCAP
- Airbags4
- Seats2
Source : Motors.co.uk
Minggu, 22 Juli 2012
Mazda Takeri concept European debut in Geneva - new images released
Mazda Takeri Mazda6 concept 13.02.2012
First revealed in Tokyo a few months ago, Mazda will give the Takeri concept its European debut at the Geneva Auto Show in March. With this
announcement Mazda has released a new batch of photos showing the
mid-sized sedan in broad daylight giving a greater sense of the
vehicle's presence.
The Takeri concept, which is a preview of the next-generation Mazda6, will be joined in Geneva by the new Mazda CX-5 compact crossover SUV and the MX-5 Spring 2012 Special Edition which is reserved for the European market only.
One of the new technologies being showcased in the Takeri concept is i-ELOOP (Intelligent Energy Loop) regenerative braking system. Combined with Mazda's 2.2-liter SKYACTIV diesel engine connected to a six-speed automatic transmission and start/stop system, the Takeri concept can travel approximately 1,500 km (932 miles) between fill ups.
The next-generation Mazda6 will reportedly be offered in four body styles: sedan, hatchback, wagon and coupe. The first three variants are expected in 2013, while the coupe will likely debut a year later.
The Takeri concept debuts on March 6th in Geneva.
The Takeri concept, which is a preview of the next-generation Mazda6, will be joined in Geneva by the new Mazda CX-5 compact crossover SUV and the MX-5 Spring 2012 Special Edition which is reserved for the European market only.
One of the new technologies being showcased in the Takeri concept is i-ELOOP (Intelligent Energy Loop) regenerative braking system. Combined with Mazda's 2.2-liter SKYACTIV diesel engine connected to a six-speed automatic transmission and start/stop system, the Takeri concept can travel approximately 1,500 km (932 miles) between fill ups.
The next-generation Mazda6 will reportedly be offered in four body styles: sedan, hatchback, wagon and coupe. The first three variants are expected in 2013, while the coupe will likely debut a year later.
The Takeri concept debuts on March 6th in Geneva.
Sabtu, 21 Juli 2012
BMW X1 car review
Newest BMW isn't an off- roader - but it is a stylish hatchback that sits you just that bit higher. We're big fans
The X1 is BMW’s first go at making a small-ish off-roader-styled car.
But it isn’t an off-roader – even if that’s what it looks like. While
some X1s send power to all four wheels – ours (the one that BMW hopes to
sell most of), channels it only to the rears.
There are a couple of inches of extra clearance between ground and
car, so you’ll cross a field as long as it isn’t boggy. But it isn’t
meant to do much more. What it does give is a hiked driving position and
a greater sureness that comes with driving something chunkier than a
regular saloon.
And, except for the greater distance separating the occupants’
behinds and the road, it feels uncannily like a 3-series saloon to
drive. Against what you might think, it’s closer to a 3-series and,
despite its X1 name, it doesn’t stand as an extension to the 1-series
range. The distance between its front and rear wheels is pretty much
exactly the same as a 3-series Touring’s, though the X1 is shorter,
narrower and taller overall. This means that, unlike the 1-series,
there’s adequate leg room in the rear and the boot is sensibly sized,
too. The rear seat is too narrow to squeeze in three grown-ups
comfortably, though.
There’s
a family look that comes across from its big brother, the latest X5,
but from some angles it resembles a 1-series, albeit one that’s scoffed
plenty of pies.
It rides well, sponging smooth all but the roughest roads although it
will pitch and bobble on really rough surfaces. The steering is weighty
and will come as a shock to anyone who’s only ever previously driven a
small, light car. But, persist with it and it delivers a rare accuracy
and confidence, allowing you to sweep across a string of bends quickly,
precisely adjusting the car’s line as you go. Once you’re used to it,
it'll help your confidence. The 2.0 diesel has 174bhp and it feels quick
enough, not speedy, while its six-speed manual gearbox is precise but
needs a firm hand.
Once you have that motor revving it is surprisingly noisy, more than
you’d get from the same unit when sat in a 3-series saloon. It’s most
noticeable at town speeds but once up to 60-70mph it settles to a thrum.
Pity, because otherwise the X1 is otherwise a composed and quiet
motorway traveller.
The
car has stop-start – come to a halt in traffic, apply the handbrake and
set the gears to neutral and it’ll still the engine, saving fuel and
cutting emissions. BMW was early to adopt the system (which has now
spread so that most makes have it) and their know-how shows: it’s the
most reliable we’ve tested. Once you need to move, dip the clutch and
the engine’s running before you’ve finished selecting gear – though here
it does so reliably, but with a slight cough ‘n’ splutter. For the car
that it is, exhaust emissions are low and a test economy on 43.4mpg sits
well with the ‘official’ 55.3mpg. There are smaller aqnd bigger diesels
in the range but, as yet, no petrol-engined models.
Should you buy one? Like a shot. Pitched between the 3-series saloon
and 1-series hatchback, prices are fairly pitched and it’s a handy car
that promises much. It mayn’t be an off-roader but we like it – a lot.
- Engines2.0 diesel
- Power174bhp
- 0-60 mph8.1secs
- Economy53.3mpg
- CO2g/km139
- Insurance groups10
- EuroNCAP
- Airbags6
- Seats5
Source : Motors.co.uk
Kamis, 19 Juli 2012
Why new car buyers should invest in a Golf. We reveal the ten hatchbacks that hold their value best
By
Lee Boyce
When you buy a new car, values can
fall very quickly - an element that is essential for motorists to factor
in when making a purchase, as driving the vehicle off the forecourt can
lose you thousands.
But some cars do not lose anywhere neat as much value as others, as they remain desirable in years to come.
The lower medium, or hatchback, sector is one of the most popular in Britain and where families go car hunting.
Family favourite: The VW Golf's appeal has endured through more than three decades - buy one and it will depreciate slowly
And with every penny counting nowadays, making the right car choice is wise.
Bringing up a family in a tough economic backdrop means that keeping a grip on finances is as important as ever. Soaring
car insurance costs and fuel prices increasingly mean that families
reliant on their vehicles will want to get good value for money – you
don’t want to end up snapping a car that plummets in value in just three
years.
Last week, This is Money took a look at the ten most reliable used family cars – and the bottom ones were named and shamed. [read full story]
Carrying
on the family car theme, alongside car specialist Glass’s, we now take a
look at the top ten family cars that keep their value best.
The
residual values below represent the typical trade price at three years
of age with an average mileage of 36,000 - so which cars make it onto
the list?
More...
- Ten of the best convertible cars
- The ten hatchbacks that hold their value best
- Top ten most reliable used family cars revealed
- Top ten cheapest cars to insure
In reverse order....
10. Mazda 3 (2.2D 148bhp Sport (Nav) 5d H/b) – 50 per cent
According to Glass's, the Mazda 3 offers motorists Japanese dependency and a relatively low cost new price.
WhatCar?
say that the vehicle is good to drive, with sharp steering, agile
handling and plenty of grip. It's a classy, stylish motor for families.
The car also came fourth on the top ten list of reliable family cars which we published last week.
Price: Brand new - £18,955. Price now - £9,525.
9. Kia Soul (1.6 124bhp 1 H/B 5d) – 51 per cent
The box-shaped design may not be to everyone’s liking but this Kia has proved something of a quirky hit, according to Glass's.
WhatCar?
says the motor has lots of cabin space and a pretty generous list of
standard equipment – although compared with other small hatchbacks, it’s
not particularly cheap to run – a downfall for cash-conscious families.
Price: Brand new - £10,295. Price now - £5,300.
8. Toyota Auris (1.4 D4-D 90bhp TR H/b 5d auto) – 53 per cent
Rather
bland styling has not damaged the strong following for this car that
benefits from a loyal customer base appreciative of good reliability,
Glass's say.
It's a
sensible family choice - it was one of three Toyotas to make it on the
top ten reliable family cars table last week, taking fifth position.
WhatCar?
says that the car benefits from a roomy cabin, ideal for families, and
the five-year warranty is a boon. However, it also adds it looks 'dull'
and it's 'pretty dull to drive'.
Price: Brand new - £14,845. Price now - £7,925.
7. Subaru Impreza (2.5 TURBO 325bhp WRX STI 330S 5d H/b) – 54 per cent
A car that defined a generation of petrol-heads, few cars match the sporting pedigree of the Impreza.
The rally association means the Impreza will always ride high in the desirability stakes and command a good re-sale price.
The price above is for a full-on sporty version, more refined and cheaper models are also available.
The
Impreza, which one-day may look like the new concept version
illustrated below, may not seem like an ideal choice for a family motor,
but a standard four-wheel drive and decent handling means that it makes
it onto the list.
Price: Brand new - £29,890. Price now - £16,075.
6. Seat Leon (2.0T FSI 237bhp Cupra K1 H/b 5d) – 55 per cent
High
performance and a strong identity allows this model to stand head and
shoulders above the more mainstream offerings, say Glass's.
Savvy
buyers know that this has VW underpinnings – making it reliable as
well. WhatCar? says that the motor benefits from a spacious cabin -
ideal for families.
Price: Brand new - £20,085. Price now - £11,000.
5. Suzuki SX4 (1.6 107bhp GLX 4GRIP H/b 5d) – 56 per cent
A
pocket-sized and affordable compact vehicle with appealing looks - the
combination of this good value and style makes it a winner, according to
Glass's.
WhatCar? say the
Suzuki SX4 is good to drive, well equipped and attractively priced. The
car gives you 4x4 looks without the high running costs.
Price: Brand new - £12,577. Price now - £7,000.
4. Honda Civic (2.2i-CTDi 138bhp SE+ Ltd Ed H/b 5d) – 56 per cent
This
was the first generation of Civic that offered style and image in
abundance combined with Honda’s legendary reliability - it came second
in the This is Money reliable family car report last week.
It's a great looking small family car that is well built and according to WhatCar? it has one of the biggest boots in its class.
Price: Brand new - £15,985. Price now - £8,975.
3. Volkswagen Golf Plus (1.9TDI PD 105PS) Dune H/b 5d) – 59 per cent
Always
the poor relation to the more conventionally-styled hatchback, the
larger and more bulbous appearance of the Golf Plus limits it appeal.
Nevertheless,
limited new sales have ensured that few are available as used cars and
this has kept prices high, according to Glass's.
Price: Brand new - £18,530. Price now - £10,875.
2. Ford Focus 2.5 (301bhp) RS H/b 3d – 65 per cent
If
buyers are gravitating to cars which offer high levels of efficiency,
then what’s this 300bhp rally-derived monster doing here?
The ‘RS’ badge offers a clue. Like the iconic Escort Cosworth, RS Fords are sure-fire icons of the future, according to Glass's.
The
car is distinctive enough from the mainstream Focus’s and the limited
supply ensures the Focus RS keeps a very strong resale value. Although,
this strictly isn't a family motor with such a high engine
specification, it may be one for the older boy and girl racer mums and
dads who want a handy hatchback and sports car peformance.
Price: Brand new - £24,730. Price now - £15,975.
1. Volkswagen Golf (2.0TDI 170PS GTD H/b 3d) – 72 per cent of original value retained
Now to the winner, the Volkswagen Golf.
Glass's
say the Golf is an almost classless car and therefore an acceptable
compromise if stepping down from a BMW, Audi or Mercedes but not that
much of a stretch if you fancy something with more prestige than a
Focus.
This wide appeal keeps demand one step ahead of supply in spite of the fact that the Golf is a very common sight on our roads.
The
1.4 litre model won the WhatCar? small family motor of the year last
year - Glass's lists the hugely popular 2.0 diesel. Nearly 40 years
after it first arrived, a Golf is still one of the most popular family
cars currently available.
Price: Brand new - £21,675. Price now - £15,500.
Selasa, 17 Juli 2012
How well is your second hand car protected?
As
the weather starts to heat up and we take more day trips in our car, so
the risk of theft and break-ins can increase. Although the lighter
evenings mean a smaller likelihood of thieves breaking into your car
during the evening, it’s still important to be vigilant. Why not answer
some of the questions below and see how well your car is protected?
What alarm system do you have in place?
Despite very old cars not having as good security
systems as modern, new cars, most used cars and second hand vehicles
will have an alarm system in place. If your used car doesn’t come with
an alarm system fitted, you must ensure that you take it to reputable
dealer or manufacturer who will be able to fit a make and model specific
alarm system. And once you’ve got that, always make sure you put it on
when you leave the car!
Where have you put your valuables?
Often, car break-ins occur as the thieves are
opportunists looking to steal items of value from within the car. If you
have a MP3 player, iPad, laptop or digital camera that you’ve taken
with you on your journey, under no circumstances leave it in the car in
plain sight. Even handbags can be appealing to an opportunistic thief,
and we all know how easy it is to leave a bag in the car when you’re
just nipping in for some petrol. Lock valuables away in the boot and
carry any handheld valuables with you, just in case.
Where have you parked?
Although summer means shorter nights and therefore
less likelihood of break-ins when it’s dark, you should still ensure you
park in a well-lit, public area, or a car park that has security.
Second hand cars sometimes appear easier to break into that new, shiny,
state-of-the-art vehicles, so parking somewhere sensible will help avoid
this.
When you’re driving, have you locked your doors?
It’s not something we think about very often unless
we believe we’re driving through a dodgy area, but keeping your car
doors locked when driving – especially in city centres or in crowded
traffic – is an important part of keeping your car, your belongings, and
you safe. Roll up your windows where you can – although if it’s really
hot this will be less appealing!
When you’re out of your car, where are your keys?
The number of simple, preventable thefts that occur
due to a lack of common sense is huge. If you’re sitting down in a café
or pub, or waiting in line for something, don’t make it really obvious
where your car keys are. Just as you wouldn’t have your wallet or phone
on display all the time, make sure your keys are in your pocket or
attached to a keychain – not on the table for anyone to see or take.
Keeping you and your car safe in summer is simple
enough with just a bit of forethought. Prepare your used car properly
and make sure that you always use common sense when it comes to looking
after yourself.
Best used cars for in-car entertainment
Remember
the days when in-car entertainment meant listening to your dad’s old
Neil Diamond tapes endlessly until they overheated? Or playing number
plate games and never-ending rounds of I Spy? Luckily those days are
over thanks to the huge range of in-car entertainment systems that come
as an added option in lots of luxury models. And if you haven’t got a
luxury make or model of car, then you can still enjoy your journey with a
selection of portable DVD and MP3 players. Here’s our guide to the best
used cars for in-car entertainment.
BMW X5
This iconic, luxury car manufacturer doesn’t
disappoint with their 2012 model, which features a fantastic built in
audio system with subwoofers under the front seats – if you choose the
optional Professional hifi system – and optimised speakers across the
entire interior for evenly distributed sound. Another option is the rear
seat entertainment system, featuring a colour monitor, DVD player and
headphone sockets – meaning the kids can stay entertained while you
concentrate on driving.
Volvo XC90
The classic Volvo got an update in 2003 with a new
entertainment system, and is available in a number of second hand
models. The system features soft-touch screens fitted into the back of
the front head rests, a DVD player with 10 disc multi-DVD changer, and
an AV input for games consoles or camcorders. The screens can be
operated independently and can also play CDs different to those being
played on the in-car system.
Range Rover
Many of the Range Rover makes and models have the
added option of installing a rear seat entertainment system, so finding a
second hand model with this included isn’t that difficult. The rear
seat entertainment system, like that in the Volvo XC90, features screens
in the back of the front head rests, 2 pairs of headphones and is
compatible with a range of audio visual equipment.
If you’re more interested in a portable DVD player,
choose one with a long battery life in order to last the full length of
long journeys. And make sure you’ve got headphones available for the
kids – otherwise you’ll end up being more distracted than they will!
Senin, 16 Juli 2012
Top ten: Cars that held their value best in 2011 and are star buys for 2012
When you buy a new car, it loses value as soon as you drive it off the forecourt - it's a fact of purchasing a motor.
On average, a new model costs just over £20,329 – that’s equates to just a small 5.6 per cent drop and makes it the car that has lost the least value over the last year, making it the best new car investment.
It appears many motorists agree - according to statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) it was the second biggest selling vehicle of last year, just behind the Ford Fiesta.
With a tiny 6 per cent drop in value in just one year, a new model bought at £11,919 last year is now worth £11,207.
The supermini benefits from great fuel efficiency - the twin air model does 68.9 miles per gallon - and rated the best fuel efficient car of the year by us at the start of last year.
A model bought brand new at £9,815 is fetching £9,137 second hand. That’s just a 7 per cent drop, making both a 2011 and 2010 version well worth a look.
German class comes out top in the form of gentleman’s favourite the BMW 5-series.
A year ago, one of these beauties would have set you back £35,590 on average.
The value of the same car now has only fallen by 11 per cent and is worth around £31,758, making the classic BMW easy on both your eye, and on your wallet.
The family car is a desirable, high-quality car with strong resale values.
For this reason, a new model of this vehicle costing £20,994 is now on the market for £18,437 with just a year on the clock.
It makes the top 10, as a £9,475 model has dropped just 13 per cent to £8,206 in a year.
This car remains a great option for young drivers wanting a reliable first car, with a great resale value.
A model which set its owner back around £8,866 last year would now fetch an impressive £7,659.
Worth £18,379 if bought new last year, it is now fetching £15,876.
That’s just a drop of 14 per cent, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a car with a good resale value.
Just behind the rest of the German cars with an encouraging 14.2 per cent value loss, a model worth around £26,468 just 12 months ago is now worth around £22,703.
If you have your heart set on a Mercedes, now could be the perfect time to make the plunge.
A classic motor, the Fiesta has been a staple of the car market on these shores since its launch back in 1976.
It still stands the test of time it appears. A car worth £11,133 bought new last year, is now fetching £9,469.
That’s just a drop of 15 per cent, making a Fiesta a sound investment.
Six of the seven top places are occupied by Off-Road 4x4s and Lifestyle 4x4s.
Short bouts of severe wintry weather in each of the last two years have ensured that the popularity of these sectors continues.
This year’s overall winner is the Toyota Landcruiser. Glass’s says that this model has never been the victim of distress marketing by the manufacturer and this has ensured that used examples have been in limited supply.
Glass’s also says that it enjoys the credentials of being a durable and reliable workhorse – an image that has endured for many years, and helped by exposure on the Top Gear television series in recent years.
But
some cars keep their value far better than others – so with a bit of
savvy buying, your vehicle might not lose as much value as you think.
This is Money, alongside Motors.co.uk, reveals the cars that held their value the most last year – making them theoretically the best cars to buy this year.
And according to the Motors.co.uk research, it seems that smaller cars are top of the car value charts…
1. BMW 1-Series
An ever popular car among businessmen and families alike, the 1-series will set you back around £19,197 for a 2010 model, and has the added bonus of an amazingly low depreciation value.On average, a new model costs just over £20,329 – that’s equates to just a small 5.6 per cent drop and makes it the car that has lost the least value over the last year, making it the best new car investment.
2. Ford Focus
If you’re thinking of purchasing a Focus for you and your family, you’d be well advised to snap up this great car.It appears many motorists agree - according to statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) it was the second biggest selling vehicle of last year, just behind the Ford Fiesta.
With a tiny 6 per cent drop in value in just one year, a new model bought at £11,919 last year is now worth £11,207.
3. Fiat 500
An immensely popular first car, if you’re looking for a smaller size vehicle you should look at the Fiat 500.The supermini benefits from great fuel efficiency - the twin air model does 68.9 miles per gallon - and rated the best fuel efficient car of the year by us at the start of last year.
A model bought brand new at £9,815 is fetching £9,137 second hand. That’s just a 7 per cent drop, making both a 2011 and 2010 version well worth a look.
4. BMW 5-Series
The advantage of nearly-new
More than half of our top ten
still lost more than 10 per cent of their value in a year - meaning a
nearly new car might be the better money-saving option.
A year ago, one of these beauties would have set you back £35,590 on average.
The value of the same car now has only fallen by 11 per cent and is worth around £31,758, making the classic BMW easy on both your eye, and on your wallet.
5. Audi A3
Renowned as the Golf’s slightly higher end competitor, the Audi A3 slots in to fifth with a 12 per cent depreciation.The family car is a desirable, high-quality car with strong resale values.
For this reason, a new model of this vehicle costing £20,994 is now on the market for £18,437 with just a year on the clock.
6. Vauxhall Corsa
The Corsa is one of the UK’s most popular and biggest selling cars, selling the third most units last year according to the SMMT figures.-It makes the top 10, as a £9,475 model has dropped just 13 per cent to £8,206 in a year.
This car remains a great option for young drivers wanting a reliable first car, with a great resale value.
7. Ford Ka
Another Ford comes in on the list, with the Ford Ka seeing just a 13 per cent drop in price in a year.A model which set its owner back around £8,866 last year would now fetch an impressive £7,659.
8. Mazda 6
An extremely versatile car, ideal for stylish businessmen and families alike, you can bet it will hold its value.Worth £18,379 if bought new last year, it is now fetching £15,876.
That’s just a drop of 14 per cent, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a car with a good resale value.
9. Mercedes C Class
A favourite in the UK, a Mercedes more than holds its weight in terms of resale value.Just behind the rest of the German cars with an encouraging 14.2 per cent value loss, a model worth around £26,468 just 12 months ago is now worth around £22,703.
If you have your heart set on a Mercedes, now could be the perfect time to make the plunge.
10. Ford Fiesta
Another small car comes in on our top 10 list - and it happens to be the biggest selling car in of 2011, according to the SMMT.A classic motor, the Fiesta has been a staple of the car market on these shores since its launch back in 1976.
It still stands the test of time it appears. A car worth £11,133 bought new last year, is now fetching £9,469.
That’s just a drop of 15 per cent, making a Fiesta a sound investment.
And what about cars that are three years old?...
In
separate research, car valuation specialists Glass’s Guide, looked at
cars that were bought new three years ago – 58 plates – to see which
motors have fallen in value the least.Six of the seven top places are occupied by Off-Road 4x4s and Lifestyle 4x4s.
Short bouts of severe wintry weather in each of the last two years have ensured that the popularity of these sectors continues.
This year’s overall winner is the Toyota Landcruiser. Glass’s says that this model has never been the victim of distress marketing by the manufacturer and this has ensured that used examples have been in limited supply.
Glass’s also says that it enjoys the credentials of being a durable and reliable workhorse – an image that has endured for many years, and helped by exposure on the Top Gear television series in recent years.
GLASS'S TOP TEN THREE-YEAR OLD CARS THAT HAVE LOST THE LEAST VALUE
| Rank | Car | % residual value (58 plate, 37k miles) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toyota Landcruiser 3.0D-4D (137bhp) Invincible auto | 72.2% |
| 2 | Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi (136ps) 2WD Titanium | 71.6% |
| 3 | Audi Q5 2.0TDI (168bhp) Quattro S Line | 71.2% |
| 4 | Porsche Cayenne 3.0 TDI V6 (237bhp) Tiptronic S | 70.4% |
| 5 | Volvo XC60 2.4 D5 AWD (185ps) | 68.1% |
| 6 | Fiat 500 1.2 (69bhp) Pop 3dr Dualogic | 67.6% |
| 7 | Suzuki Jimny 1.3 (83bhp) JLX 3dr | 66.3% |
| 8 | Volkswagen Scirocco 2.0 TDI (138bhp) GT Coupe | 66.1% |
| 9 | Alfa Romeo MITO 1.4 (95bhp) Turismo 3dr | 66.0% |
| 10 | Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI (140ps) GT 3dr | 66.0% |
More...
The ten cars that lose most value in three years - making them ‘like new’ bargains (and some wear premium badges)
By
Lee Boyce
Some new cars lose their value quicker than others – it’s a simple fact that can mean a new motor loses over half its value in just three years.
However, this leaves an opportunity for second hand car buyers to snap up a 'like-new' bargain.
In January, we ran an article that revealed the cars that had held their values best last year. [read more]
In the comment section, Julie from Zurich, Switzerland said: ‘May I turn this on its head? I wish to buy my daughter a car for her 30th birthday this year, looking at cars that have not held their value what would be a good buy? Two to three years old preferably.’
In research for This is Money by used car website Motors.co.uk, we reveal that some three-year used models can be bought for up to £20,000 cheaper than their original price.
These are the new cars have depreciated in value the quickest, but are a savvy buy for any 'like new' car bargain hunters out there.
Voted by What Car? Magazine as its family car of the year for 2012, buying a model three years old could save you big money a new model costs £17,716 - but one just three years old will cost you as little £8,337.
That’s a 53 per cent drop in price over three years.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £9,379
A new car will cost you £28,225 but buying a model three years old will save you 53 per cent, at £13,227.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £14,998
That’s a drop of 53 per cent drop in price over three years.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £6,625
The Auris sees a massive 54 per cent drop in price in over three years.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £9,102
A new car costing £13,608 has dropped 54 per cent in price to £6,279 in three years.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £7,329
The positioning is surprising given it was fourth in the cars that held their value best last year list - however, that was based over one year, this list is based over three.
A new car will cost you £35,590 but a model with three years on the clock is now on the market for £16,234.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £19,356
The value of the same car has fallen by 55 per cent in three years and is now worth £8,650, making buying used a worthwhile consideration if you’re thinking of changing car.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £10,524
A new model bought would set you back £14,338 but a 2008 model could be picked up for as little as £6,319.
That’s a 59 per cent drop in price over three years, making a 2008 model a nearly new bargain British families should definitely consider.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £8,019
With a massive 57 per cent drop in price from to 2008, a new model would set you back £15,915 but a 2008 model is priced at around £6,902
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £9,013
That equals a 58 per cent drop in price from now to a 2008 model, meaning there are clear financial advantages to buying a second hand car if you’re looking at a Volvo S40 - and it tops our list of 'like new' car bargains.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £10,930
Badge smart: Even a premium car such as a BMW can be picked up as a nearly-new bargain
However, this leaves an opportunity for second hand car buyers to snap up a 'like-new' bargain.
In January, we ran an article that revealed the cars that had held their values best last year. [read more]
In the comment section, Julie from Zurich, Switzerland said: ‘May I turn this on its head? I wish to buy my daughter a car for her 30th birthday this year, looking at cars that have not held their value what would be a good buy? Two to three years old preferably.’
In research for This is Money by used car website Motors.co.uk, we reveal that some three-year used models can be bought for up to £20,000 cheaper than their original price.
These are the new cars have depreciated in value the quickest, but are a savvy buy for any 'like new' car bargain hunters out there.
Comparing prices: How Motors crunched the numbers
The information supplied here from Motors.co.uk uses the price of a new 2011/12 car and the price of a three-year-old available 2008 car, with the model and engine listed.
Different trim levels, optional extras, mileage and service history will all affect the actual price a buyer can find a car at, and remember it is always worth trying to negotiate.
Different trim levels, optional extras, mileage and service history will all affect the actual price a buyer can find a car at, and remember it is always worth trying to negotiate.
10. FORD MONDEO 2.0 TDVi Edge
A favourite with British families since the early 1990s, the reliable Ford Mondeo sneaks into our top ten list.Voted by What Car? Magazine as its family car of the year for 2012, buying a model three years old could save you big money a new model costs £17,716 - but one just three years old will cost you as little £8,337.
That’s a 53 per cent drop in price over three years.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £9,379
9. LEXUS IS 2.5 SE
A favourite for businessmen across Britain, a second hand Lexus could be a great option if you’re looking for a swanky second hand car.A new car will cost you £28,225 but buying a model three years old will save you 53 per cent, at £13,227.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £14,998
8. VAUXHALL MERIVA 1.4 EXCITE/LIFE
Looking for nearly new family car? Take a look at the Meriva - worth £12,443 on a new plate, but a 2008 model will cost only £5,818.That’s a drop of 53 per cent drop in price over three years.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £6,625
7. TOYOTA AURIS 1.6 VVT-i
A brand new model would set you back £16,939, but going back to a 2008 model means you could spend as little as £7,837.The Auris sees a massive 54 per cent drop in price in over three years.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £9,102
6. RENAULT MEGANE 1.6 DYNAMIQUE
One of the UK’s most popular and reliable cars, the Megane comes in sixth in our top ten.A new car costing £13,608 has dropped 54 per cent in price to £6,279 in three years.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £7,329
5. BMW 5 SERIES 520d SE
The BMW 5 Series slots in with a 54 per cent depreciation over three years.The positioning is surprising given it was fourth in the cars that held their value best last year list - however, that was based over one year, this list is based over three.
A new car will cost you £35,590 but a model with three years on the clock is now on the market for £16,234.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £19,356
4. TOYOTA AVENSIS 2.0 D-4D TR
A new version of one of the most popular cars on Britain’s roads will set you back £19,174.The value of the same car has fallen by 55 per cent in three years and is now worth £8,650, making buying used a worthwhile consideration if you’re thinking of changing car.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £10,524
3. RENAULT SCENIC 1.6 DYNAMIQUE
An immensely popular family car, if you’re looking for a good family size vehicle you should take a look at the Renault Scenic.A new model bought would set you back £14,338 but a 2008 model could be picked up for as little as £6,319.
That’s a 59 per cent drop in price over three years, making a 2008 model a nearly new bargain British families should definitely consider.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £8,019
2. RENAULT GRAND SCENIC 1.6 DYNAMIQUE
If you’re thinking of purchasing a Renault Grand Scenic, you’d be well advised to look back at a three year old model.With a massive 57 per cent drop in price from to 2008, a new model would set you back £15,915 but a 2008 model is priced at around £6,902
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £9,013
1. VOLVO S40 1.6S
An ever popular car among businessmen and families alike, the S40 series will set you back around £18,929 for a new car, but a 2008 version can be snapped up for £7,999.That equals a 58 per cent drop in price from now to a 2008 model, meaning there are clear financial advantages to buying a second hand car if you’re looking at a Volvo S40 - and it tops our list of 'like new' car bargains.
SAVING BY BUYING A MODEL THREE YEARS OLD: £10,930
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