Company Car & Van December 2020

COMPANY

CAR AND VAN The motoring magazine for SME fleets

MINI in electric dreams

JAGUAR XE & E-PACE

SPRINTER

Improved engines include mild or plug-in hybrid

Mercedes-Benz quality and connectivity to the fore

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

MAXUS eDELIVER 3

Golf 8 doesn’t disappoint

December 2020

We put the Chinese-built electric van to the test

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Contents 16

30 32

New models coming thick and fast as sector keeps everything crossed for Q4 Christmas is coming and what a strange one it could be, with Covid-19 still dominating the agenda. The good news is that the motor trade got back to normal in September and had an excellent Q3. It’s too early, however, to know how things went in Q4, but hopefully, there’ll be more good news as we move into 2021.

In this issue, with more and more hybrid and electric vehicles entering the fray, we put several to the test, as well as driving a number of large diesel vans that are currently keeping Britain going.

In addition we take a look at a couple of new non-electric cars that have just been launched.

Our cover star is the MINI Electric, the brand’s first pure electric. As we found out, if you plug in regularly, it gets an awful lot of things right.

We’ve always loved the Jaguar XE and E-Pace, two of the best-looking cars out there.

Both now offer improved interiors, better connectivity and add mild or plug-in hybrid engines, as we find out.

The Golf 8 finally arrived at CC&V Towers and it didn’t disappoint, and neither did

CARS News 4 Rolec 5 Suzuki Vitara LEVC VN5

Toyota’s CH-R, where the addition of connected Apps to the ‘mini-Bat Mobile’ have made a good car even better.

Also reviewed are the Lexus UX, DS3 Crossback e-Tense, Skoda Superb iV and Mazda MX-30, and we also get a look at Hyundai’s all-new i20..

On the commercial front, we got out and about in the Mercrdes-Benz Sprinter and Vauxhall Movano, with both proving their worth and highlighting that diesel is very much not dead in that sector.

And, for those considering an electric van, we feature the Citroen ë-Dispatch and Volkswagen ABT eTransporter, as well as the Fiat Professional eDucato, which offers two different-sized battery options. And we drive the Chinese-built Maxus eDeliver 3, one of the cheapest ways to get into an electric van, as well as a new entry to the sector, the VN5 from London Electric Vehicle Company.

6 8

Trojan Energy

10

MINI Electric

12

Volkswagen Golf

16

Lexus UX

20

Hyundai i20

22

Mazda MX-30

24

DS3 25 Kia Sorento

26

Jaguar XE / E-Pace

30

Toyota CH-R

32

Skoda Superb iV

34

COMMERCIALS Nissan NV250

35

Citroen ë-Dispatch

36

Volkswagen ABT eTransporter

40

Fiat Professional eDucato

41

Vauxhall Movano

44

Maxus eDeliver 3

46

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

48

Andrew Walker, Editor and Publisher

44

48

46

Company Car & Van is wholly owned and published by: Walker Advertising & Marketing Ltd 12 Oakwood Lane, Bowdon, Cheshire WA14 3DL t: 0161 941 4296 / 07734 264735 e: andrewwalker@uwclub.net w: www.companycarandvan.co.uk Follow us at twitter.com/andrewmaxwalker and www.linkedin.com/in/companycarandvan Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material contained within this magazine, the publisher can accept no responsibility for omissions or inaccuracies in its editorial or advertising content. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The carriage of adverts in this publication should not necessarily be viewed as an endorsement of the products or services advertised. All articles within this publication are copyright of Walker Advertising & Marketing Ltd. Editorial consent must be obtained before any are reproduced, either in printed form or electronically. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 03

NEWS

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Goodbye Daimler Fleet Management, hello Athlon Daimler Fleet Management (DFM) UK Ltd is now Athlon UK, as of October 12. Athlon is the fleet and mobility management expert in the Daimler group, operated by Daimler Mobility AG. “As Athlon, we will continue to provide the most sustainable and tailor-made mobility solutions for our customers,” explains Patricia Wolfe, Managing Director Athlon UK. “Our multimarque fleet provision delivers unrivalled vehicle access and a wide range of funding options, ranging from short-term rental through to full contract hire with repair and maintenance packages to suit all needs, making Athlon the perfect fit for any fleet set-up or budget.”

She added: “With a fleet of more than 14,000 units, we have the expertise to support businesses

to navigate through changing regulations, for example by introducing electric vehicles into fleets.”

Athlon is one of the leading providers of vehicle leasing and fleet management in Europe, managing over 400,000 vehicles. It has developed innovative, sustainable and cost-efficient business mobility solutions for more than 100 years.

The company enables people to move hasslefree through integrated and sustainable fleet and mobility solutions. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is active in over 20 countries in Europe, as well as North America, directly, or via partners.

For more information, visit athlon.co.uk or call 03456 003 425.

Defender takes the ‘Arthur’ as champion of the north

The Land Rover Defender has been voted the Northern Car of the Year for 2020 in the annual poll carried out by the Northern Group of Motoring Writers.

The Defender received 16 votes in the ballot, six more than nearest challenges the Honda e and Ford Puma, which were in joint second. Company Car & Van Editor Andrew Walker chose the Renault Clio.

Because of the Covid-19 restrictions the Group’s traditional award, a miner’s lamp suitably inscribed, has not yet been presented to the winning press office; the ceremony has been delayed until safer times.

The miner’s lamp is a special symbol of the north and is nicknamed ‘the Arthur’ – after Arthur Scargill, probably still the best-known miner in the country.

Nissan has begun production of the MY20 LEAF range, which includes a new entry-grade 62kWh model and lower pricing for the range-topping Tekna e+.

Specification enhancements to both 40kWh and 62kWh versions include an Intelligent Rearview Mirror on Tekna models, shark fin antenna as standard from N-Connecta, Blindspot Intervention on all grades, and the addition of telescopic adjustment on the steering wheel.

The introduction of the e+ N-Connecta to the LEAF range also creates a new entry-grade for 62kWh battery capacity models. LEAF e+ N-Connecta versions start from £32,695 OTR, including £3,000 Government Grant.

04 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

New, more car-like Kangoo ready to go Renault has taken the wraps off its all-new Kangoo. The latest generation of the light commercial builds on the success of its award-winning predecessor with a bold, completely new exterior, brand new interior and significant advances in infotainment and driver assistance systems.

The range will offer business users a 100 per cent electric version in the shape of the Kangoo Z.E. – a highly usable, environmentally compatible van that meets the challenges of urban mobility.

The new look features a completely redesigned front end, sculpted sides and a more pronounced profile.

There are two lengths available – with volumes of 3.3m3 to 3.9m3 in the standard van and from 4.2 m3 to 4.9 m3 in the longer version.

Further details will be released early next year.

Hot Cupra breaks new ground SEAT has broken new ground with its Cupra Leon hot hatch with the addition of an e-HYBRID – the brand’s first plug-in hybrid.

The model signals the start of electrification for the premium performance brand.

The exciting model retains its sports performance, with e-HYBRID accelerating from 0-62 mph in 6.7 seconds, but its green credentials are highlighted by its economy: expect returns of up to 217.3mpg on the WLTP test cycle, and CO2 emissions of just 30g/km.

Prices start from £31,450 for 245PS model, rising to £34,495 RRP OTR for the e-HYBRID.

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

NEWS

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Why should you be smart charging at home?

More company car drivers are enjoying the savings that EVs offer – and enjoying the convenience of home charging If you are reading this, you have perhaps thought about opting for an electric vehicle as your next company car.

Why would you not? With the 0% BiK company car tax, combined with the cost savings in running the vehicle, choosing an EV is becoming a ‘no brainer’ for company car drivers.

Your workplace may already have the facilities available for you to recharge your vehicle during working hours, but have you considered smart charging your vehicle at home?

Firstly, smart charging at home is cheaper than you think, especially when charging during off-peak times; depending on the size of your

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

EV’s battery and chargepoint speed, you could be spending an average of £3 per charging session. Not to mention, there is also £350 OLEV (Office for Low Emission Vehicles) grant funding available towards the purchase and installation cost of your chargepoint, therefore generating you further cost savings.

The charging at home costs alone is a contributing factor towards why drivers are switching to electric vehicles because, quite frankly, they are significantly cheaper to run compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts.

Although your workplace may offer EV charging to employees, smart charging at home not only places you in control of your own charging behaviour, but it also offers convenient charging, allowing you to fully charge your vehicle in the evening, ready for the next day.

As ownership of electric vehicles increases, you may not be guaranteed a parking space at your workplace to recharge; that’s why installing a chargepoint at home is always a logical option to ensure you are able to drive without the worry of running on minimal power.

The mobile phone controlled WallPod:EV HomeSmart is the UK’s best-selling home chargepoint for many reasons. Not only does it offer ease of charging for both novice and experienced EV drivers, its smart features provide EV drivers with complete transparency of energy consumption, costs and charging behavior.

With the ability to automatically ‘green charge’ during off-peak hours, the driver will always pay as little as possible for their charging, in turn creating significant cost savings.

Features such as ‘stop/start’ charging and the ability to schedule your charging also allows drivers to control when charging takes place.

For more on Rolec’s OLEV grant-funded WallPod:EV HomeSmart, visit: www.rolecserv.com For more on our fleet EV charging and back office management solutions, get in touch: frankie@rolecserv.co.uk

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 05

ON TEST: SUZUKI VITARA

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Vitara offers affordable motoring that still packs a punch Andrew Walker grabs himself a bargain with a week in the Suzuki Vitara Suzuki may not be the first name that springs to mind when you’re considering your next company vehicle. However, if you look a little closer, you’ll find a brand that offers customers a wide choice of cars, great value for money, bullet-proof reliability and a fleet package that may also surprise you.

Take the updated Vitara for example. A series of updates have moved it from a fairly basic vehicle into one that can really compete in higher company. In 2018 there was just a choice of two petrol engines, a 1.0 litre and 1.4 litre petrol, but in 2020 Suzuki updated the engines again, this time opting for a 1.4 petrol Boosterjet hybrid-only version across all three model specs; SZ4, SZ-T and SZ5.

The exterior updates from the 2018 refresh remain; more importantly, the 2020 version add a host of new safety features, including Dual Sensor Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition and Adaptive Cruise Control.

We were testing the 1.4-litre Boosterjet Hybrid All Grip SZ5 4WD version, with an OTR price of £26,549. All versions come with 16” or 17” alloy wheels, as well as body-coloured bumpers and door mirrors. Seven airbags are fitted across the range, including a driver’s knee airbag and both Bluetooth and DAB radio are also standard. Other standard features on the SZ-T include stop/start, air-con, steering wheel mounted audio controls, USB, front fog lights, daytime LED projector headlamps, rear parking camera, three-spoke leather steering wheel, a tyre pressure monitoring system, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist function, ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and Hill hold control. And, bringing the range right up to date Apple CarPlay and Android Auto now feature right across the range.

Our test model SZ5 also featured a panoramic sun roof, keyless entry and start and with 17” polished alloys. This was the 4WD version, featuring ALLGRIP 4-mode 4WD system featuring snow and sport functions.

Price wise, the Vitara range starts from £21,999 for entry SZ5, mid-range SZ-T from £22,999 and range topping SZ5 from £24,999.

All are powered by the identical performing 1.4 petrol engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Maximum speed is 118mph, 0-62 mph takes 9.5 seconds and there’s 129bhp. on tap. CO2 emissions come in at 128g/km on all models, except the 140g/km on the ALLGRIP. WLTP combined fuel economy at 49.7mpg.

06 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

If you’ve driven any current Suzuki, the interior will be familiar to you. It’s all well made and looks and feels built to last. The plastic dash tops and dash front add some style and are good quality, though the plastic used lower down, on door pockets and the glove box front, aren’t quite as nice. Nevertheless, the cabin’s a pleasant place to be – and is far more spacious, with better storage, than its rivals.

Getting comfortable is easy; there’s a rake and reach steering wheel and you can make back, forth and height adjustments to the seat.

Dominating the dashboard is the infotainment touchscreen which can also be operated from the steering wheel controls. The system features a neat four-way split screen to access the main options. The four variants available through the touchscreen are Media, Phone, SatNav and finally Smartphone. All can be accessed relatively easily either by touching the screen, or via the steering wheel controls. I connected my iPhone to the Bluetooth quickly and easily and found that using this while moving was straightforward, as was the Apple CarPlay. The SatNav was intuitive and unlike many radios I could mention, the DAB system was spot on.

Behind the wheel you’ll find the six-speed manual gearbox smooth and the steering light, making the Vitara easy to drive. You simply point and go. The 1.4 petrol engine is nippy even when there’s more than one of you on board.

On a couple long motorway jaunts, where the adaptive cruise control was excellent, I found that the cabin can be a little noisy. I also took the Vitara out on some local B roads and winding country lanes and although these were bumpy, the suspension dealt with them easily and even feels supple, working well with the power steering to give a comfortable ride.

Furthermore, the squat Vitara offers little or no body roll and I had no complaints from my

passengers in the rear.

I mentioned the ALLGRIP 4WD system earlier. This would plainly be great in the winter, particularly if you live in a hilly area. To access this there’s a small dial located between the front seats which enables you to choose the default Auto mode, Snow or Sport depending on your needs. As it was October I drove only in Auto mode and found it perfect for my needs, returning an average of 44.3 mpg in the week.

Will the Vitara attract the gaze of small businesses? Business users have leased an awful lot of SUVs in recent years and the SME company car driver is a target for Suzuki with the Vitara. From a cost perspective, with the range starting from £21,999, it’s a steal.

Perhaps the only negative is that the new 1.4 Hybrid engines doesn’t offer a lower BIK; expect 30 and 33 per cent.

It’s a tough market for the Vitara; it’s up against Volkswagen T-Roc, Citroen C3 Aircross, Skoda Kamiq, SEAT Arona and Peugeot 2008. It may lack a bit of style, but it counters by being more spacious than these, is better equipped and packs a serious punch as a proper-sized family car. The addition of extra safety and connected Apps are also a plus.

And, as Auto Express will validate, Suzuki also offers impressive reliability.

With contact hire rates, as we write, for the mid-range SZ-T starting at only £179 a month + vat, it is in our opinion, a veritable bargain and well worth seeking out.

VERDICT Affordable doesn’t just mean cheap; the Vitara has plenty to offer, in addition to that low monthly cost.

A Home Bargain, as far as CC&V’s concerned CC&V RATING: NNNN www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: LEVC VN5

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Taxi for the competition: the VN5 van is here!

There’s a new name to consider when you’re looking for your next van – and it comes from a surprising source, says Andrew Walker Although the London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) has been around in one form or other since 1908, famous for its London taxis, it was only after Chinese company Geely bought it in 2013 that the current move to electrification began. The company changed its name to LEVC in 2017, with the clue to their future in the name.

In 2018 it launched the innovative electric taxi the TX and in 2020, its TX-based van, the VN5.

What makes the VN5 different is it’s eCity technology. It’s powered by a lithium-ion battery and features a petrol range-extender to maintain the battery charge state. The battery always powers the motor and drives the vehicle. The range-extender acts as a back-up generator and is only used to trickle-charge the battery to maintain its current state of charge. When the 31kWh battery is depleted (after about 58 miles in the VN5), the 1.3-litre range extender engine kicks in and charges it back up again, providing a total range of over 300 miles.

As a limited range is the number one problem for electric vans, for example the MercedesBenz eVito does only 81 miles on a single charge, LEVC believes that this clever technology is a game changer.

How does it work? The traction (high voltage) battery, which weighs in at 330kg, is located under the seats, while the generator is integrated with the range extender and is located under the bonnet. The 12V battery is over the right side wheel arch, with the drive motor located on the rear axle. This only drives the wheels and never the range-extender.

The VN5 may be electric, but it has to offer van customers what they want and tries hard to deliver on this. With up to 5.5m3 capacity, VN5 cargo capacity will take two Euro-sized pallets with a gross payload of 830kg. It has been built 08 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

with a large side-loading door, large enough for enabling a pallet to be side-loaded, with a 60/40 split door at the rear, making loading and unloading easier. The cabin features a fully adjustable driver’s seat, an open glove box, drinks holders, two door pockets and a couple of cubby holes located in the dash and central binnacle. The automatic gear stick, hand brake and starter button are between the front seats, which means there’s no three seat option.

Customers can choose from three models.

Entry level Business costs from £46,500 and features an 11kW OBC, DAB, a single sliding side door, bulkhead, floor trim and cargo cladding. Upgrade to the City trim costing from £48,000 and add a heated windscreen, front and rear parking sensors, under seat storage, curtain airbags and Lane Departure Warning.

There are a number of accessory packs but the VN5 comes well equipped. For example, the Business range includes two USB ports, dualzone climate control, a 9” touchscreen, keyless start, Bluetooth, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED cabin and cargo lights.

We tested the VN5 over a two-hour course near its manufacturing base in Ansty. There are three driving modes: Pure EV, Smart and Save.

Save is best on motorway or dual carriageways, Pure EV in slower town traffic and Smart for normal driving. Two stage regenerative braking, very useful in town, allows drivers to bank battery power when slowing down.

On the motorway we used the cruise control to set our speed at 70 mph and headed off towards Rugby. Unladen, the van was quite noisy but not so loud you couldn’t make a Bluetooth hands-free phone call. Connecting my iPhone to the USB was simple and for a change, the USB inputs are located further back in the centre binnacle between the front seats, so there’s no dangling wires when you’ve plugged in. The driver’s seat is comfortable and the seat adjustment excellent, though the head rest was too hard for my liking.

Handling is good and as with the TX, there’s a class-leading 10.1m turning circle, which allows for easier urban deliveries. The fuel tank isn’t

that large at 36 litres and neither is the 1.5 litre engine, but since these are designed to charge the generator and not power the engine, they’re more than up to the task. Official combined fuel economy is 313mpg (WLTP), with CO2 emission of just 21g/km.

I came away impressed. Price-wise it stacks up well against the larger Renault Master and Fiat Professional Ducato, which are pure EVs, although its cargo capacity is more in line with the smaller and similarly priced Mercedes-Benz eVito and Volkswagen ABT eTransporter and PSA triumvirate of Citroen e-Dispatch, Peugeot e-Expert and Vauxhall Vivaro-e.

Any negatives? We were disappointed that there isn’t a 3-seat version and it’s not cheap.

The rear and sliding side doors feel a bit flimsy.

While its low height of 1.99m makes it compatible with most car parks, the load space at 5.5m3 isn’t generous, especially when the smallest Transit Custom can carry 6m3. And with a maximum payload of 830kg, it’s way off the 1,500kg some diesel vans offer.

But the VN5 is a range-extender van, making it a unique proposition for city-based drivers.

Furthermore, where few EV cars currently come with more than a standard 3-pin and 7kW charging lead, the VN5 offers 50kW DC rapid charging and minimum 11kW AC fast charging capability from the off.

While it may not offer the payload or cubic capacity of diesel options, it is a perfect ‘delivery to door’ solution. It has a real-world range of 300 miles, thanks to the petrol range-extender, and that makes it more than just a ‘last mile’ van, as many pure EVs are. And remember, the hefty price tag isn’t as bad if you’re leasing.

VERDICT Offers something different from its operators and that real range is a bonus. British built and different CC&V RATING: NNNN www.companycarandvan.co.uk

NEW TECHNOLOGY

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

UK takes next STEP in kerbside electric vehicle charging World-first technology that could unlock electric vehicle charging at homes without drives or garages is being trialled in London. Sarah Clements, Senior Consultant at element-energy.co.uk reports Start-up company Trojan Energy is installing 200 of its electric vehicle chargers across the London boroughs of Brent and Camden in a bid to solve the problem of how to charge electric vehicles in for those homes which do not have a garage or drive.

Each charge point is slotted into the ground with a flat and flush connection. The technology has no permanent footprint or street clutter as the hardware is only visible when a vehicle is charging.

The Subsurface Technology for Electric Pathways (STEP) project has been awarded £3m in co-funding by Innovate UK. If successful it will enable entire streets to be filled with the charge points so that no matter where a driver parks, they will be able to charge their EV. The technology consists of two parts – a charge point slotted into the ground, and a ‘lance’ which is inserted into the charge point in order to charge. The charger can provide charge rates from 2kW to 22kW, and up to 18 chargers can run in parallel from one electricity network connection. This will in turn create opportunities for electric vehicle owners to use spare capacity in their batteries to provide

services to electricity network operators which could make the cost of owning and running EVs cheaper.

Brent and Camden are at the forefront of the EV transition in the UK. Both boroughs have rapidly growing EV usage, encouraged by council policy determined to drive down air pollution in their neighbourhoods.

Cllr Shama Tatler, Lead Member for Regeneration, Property and Planning at London Borough of Brent, said the council was “thrilled to be among the first to try these innovative new charging points. Electric vehicles will play an important part in improving our local air quality which we know can have a detrimental impact on people’s health.

“I hope these discrete kerbside chargers will make electric vehicles accessible for more people and get us one step closer to our aim of becoming a zero-carbon borough.”

The technology has been developed by Trojan Energy, a team of ex-oil industry engineers determined to use their subsea skills for good, and contribute towards solving the problem of high CO2 emissions.

Trojan Energy Managing Director, Ian Mackenzie said: “We are grateful for the support we have received from our consortium partners and Innovate UK. This backing will allow us to bring our discrete kerbside charging to cities where the need to transition to EVs is greatest. Our technology will allow us to electrify whole streets at a fraction of the cost of traditional charging infrastructure and without the need for kerbside clutter. We are really looking forward to bringing this

revolutionary solution to London and beyond”.

Element Energy, a strategic energy consultancy specialising in the analysis of low carbon energy, is leading the project, using its sectoral and project management expertise to achieve the best commercial and environmental return for investment.

Celine Cluzel, Element Energy Director, said “STEP is trialling a solution to what is often the Achilles’ heel of charging infrastructure: scalability. The project is also conducting research on consumer and wider street users’ preference – a typical gap in research so far.

These facts, combined with the excellent team brought together, make us confident that the trial will be a significant step forward for the uptake of electric vehicles.”

Other members of the consortium include UK Power Networks, Birmingham City Council and the University of Leeds. Award-winning renewable electricity supplier Octopus Energy will also be recruiting their customers for the trial and providing expertise in backend billing which will be invaluable to EV owners.

A key aspect of the trial involves collecting consumer feedback on the technology and gathering new information on the charging behaviour of EV drivers who park on-street.

This research will be led by the Institute for Transport Studies at the University of Leeds, which is a world-renowned research establishment, alongside input from Element Energy, which also has previous experience of conducting EV trials. Feedback from this research will crucially inform the development of commercialisation plans.

A CGI mock-up of how the STEP charging system will look

10 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: MINI ELECTRIC

She’s electric!

Andrew Walker rekindles his love affair with MINI – and finds the all-electric version is a suitable model to carry the famous brand into a new era of motoring

A

s a past owner of both a 1980’s MINI and the newer version circa 2004, I was really looking forward to driving the MINI electric. Thanks to lockdown, our original loan date in April was postponed and I finally got my hands on one in late September.

I’m unashamedly a MINI fan and as I found out, the electric version does an awful of MINI things well.

For a start it looks and feels, well, like a normal MINI. So factor in a plush, well thought out and funky cabin. With the 32.5 kWh battery 12 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

located beneath the back seats and underneath the centre of the car, forming a T shape, you also get excellent handling and the bonus of a 0-62mph time of just 7.3 seconds from the 181bhp electric motor. It’s as close to a very fast dodgem car that I’ve encountered yet and is great fun both in town and on the motorway.

So that customers and the public alike can tell that this is an electric MINI the range is offered with yellow trim panels and alloy wheels that replicate a three-pin plug socket. If you don’t want to shout your greenness to the world, don’t worry, because you can swap any

of the electric detailing for other designs, save the model’s yellow electric badge and filled-in grille.

For starters, there are three specs of electric MINI offered, which are simply called Level 1, 2 or 3. Including the £3,000 Government grant, the Level 1 can be bought for £24,900.

Each level adds slightly more kit but all models start with SatNav, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, climate and cruise control. Level 2 costs an additional £2,000 but for that cash you get a parking camera, an interior lights package, rear view camera, heated front seats www.companycarandvan.co.uk

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

TECH DATA MINI Electric 2 Price: £26,900 (after Government grant) Engine: Single electric motor, 32.5kWh battery Power/torque: 181bhp/270Nm Transmission: Single-speed automatic, front-wheel drive 0-62mph: 7.3 seconds Top speed: 93 mph Range: 145 miles CO2: 0g/km

and rear park distance control. Add another £4,000 for Level 3 and this brings a touch more luxury, with a Harman Kardon stereo, a panoramic glass sunroof, a larger central infotainment screen, full leather upholstery and parking assist.

Let’s tackle the ‘elephant in the room’ first though, and that’s the MINI electric range. MINI claims it is 229km, which equates to 145 miles.

When the MINI was delivered to Company Car and Van, the instrumentation said it was fully charged, with a range of 105 miles. So how then can it claim to be 145 miles? Well, the www.companycarandvan.co.uk

electric MINI comes with four drive modes; Sport, Mid, Green and Green+, which turns off the air con, and there’s a clever regeneration switch on the dashboard located alongside the starter button.The regeneration switch alters the amount of regen on the go and what’s really good about it is that you can set it to ‘high’ even when you’re driving on the motorway and it doesn’t spoil the ride.

So the secret is, you have to keep your wits about you regarding the range – but we reckon you’ll get used to it in time. For example, we drove to Liverpool for a weekend break, a

distance of 33 miles door to door, of which 27 miles were on the motorway. I left the MINI in Green+ as I expected the battery range would drop quickly. But it didn’t – indeed, quite the opposite in fact.

We set off with a battery range of 105 miles and having driven 33 miles, expected the range to now show around 60-65 miles. But it showed 85 miles; in other words, as you go forward, MINI Electric is working hard to claw back the range for you. Over the course of our week in the MINI, we found that by driving in Continued on page 14 Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 13

ON TEST: MINI ELECTRIC

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

‘Quiet, comfortable and fun to drive... great cornering and straight-line power’ Continued from page 13 Green or Green+ with the regen set at its highest, we were able to save around a third of the range on every journey we made. This accounts for the claimed 145-mile range that MINI say the electric version has. Clever, very clever – but it’s something you’d have to get used to as time went by.

Not having driven a three-door MINI for some time, I had forgotten that it’s not very big inside. We’ve also owned a MINI Countryman and that’s a proper family car, so the lack of space in the 3-door version is noticeable. To be fair, there’s decent enough room up front, but rear head and especially legroom are poor. The boot will take four large holdalls though, and there’s a shelf, underneath which you can hide the two power cables, a home three-pin and a 7kWh. Both fit neatly inside clever black bags.

Although I have a Rolec home charger (more about this at http://www.rolecserv.com/ home-charging) I took the opportunity to charge the MINI up at my local Tesco, where you can get two hours free when shopping if you’re plugged-in to their Podpoint chargers, and similarly at Cheshire Oaks Shopping Village, which offers a range of Chargemaster machines. A word of advice for fledgling electric car owners: always download the charging companies’ Apps so that you can take advantage of free charging where it’s offered.

As a driver’s car, the electric MINI is more fun to drive than most other cars. It’s easy to point into and out of a corner and comes with decent straight line power. It’s also very quiet and is comfortable in town.

And despite that small stature it’s also happy on the motorway and you can easily overtake

Plug-in and you’re on the charge: The MINI deserves plaudits for its clever regeneration options which keep the range high

slow moving traffic if required. All in all, it’s hard to fault.

For business customers there’s no BIK, or CO2 emissions, so if you can live with the more limited range that on some of its rivals – the Peugeot e-208 and Vauxhall Corsa-e will get you closer to a 200-mile range – then the only real competition as far as appeal goes comes from the decidedly retro Honda-e, but this has its challenges in that it has only a 100-mile range. Plainly, if you have a home charger and are lucky enough to have one at work too, range won’t be an issue. And if the range is still a problem, then it’s well to remember that the average daily commute by car in the UK is

somewhere around 30 miles. Mind you, we’d stress that this is not a car for a 400-mile round trip.

VERDICT Electric hasn’t dampened the fun.

Still a MINI at heart, with great fun to be had on the road – and a range that makes it ideal for average commutes and urban life CC&V RATING: NNNN

Electric motoring added to the MINI tradition MINI has launched its new focus on drivetrain technologies, vehicle segments and services of the future.

At the centre of this realignment is the expansion of electromobility, enhanced commitment in the crossover and premium compact segments and strengthening of the market position in China. “MINI was always the answer to very special challenges relating to individual mobility. And the willingness to reinvent the status quo continues to shape the brand to this day,” commented Bernd Körber, Head of MINI. “Alongside electromobility, harnessing new target groups and sales markets will be crucially important for the future of MINI.” 20 years have now passed since the premiere of the second MINI generation after the relaunch of the traditional British heritage

14 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

brand. Since then around four million vehicles of the brand have been produced at the MINI plant in Oxford and delivered to more than 100 countries all over the world.

Customer needs and wishes have defined the development of the MINI model range over

the past two decades – with the fun of driving combined with efficiency deeply rooted within the traditions of the British brand.

Now, emission-free mobility has been firmly established in the model range too, and in the MINI community.

With the MINI Countryman Plug-in Hybrid alone, (combined fuel consumption: 2.0 – 1.7 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption: 14.0 – 13.1 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 45 – 40 g/km), vehicles with electrified drive accounted for five percent of the brand’s total sales in 2019. Following the launch of the MINI Electric (combined fuel consumption: 0.0 l/100 km; combined electricity consumption: 16.8 – 14.8 kWh/ 100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 0 g/km), this rate has doubled to ten percent of all new registrations for the brand.

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

The only above-par round you’ll ever want at Golf Self-confessed VW fan Andrew Walker finds everything he’d ever want from the new Golf – and more besides

L

ockdown 1 meant that CC&V didn’t get a chance to drive Volkswagen’s eighth generation Golf until September. As a once proud owner of a Golf Mk2 GTI in Mars Red, and with my wife’s current VW T-Roc and the children’s VW Polo on our drive, it’s safe to say that we are generally a pro-Volkswagen family, and I was really looking forward to driving the latest Golf The new model is offered with three trim levels – Life, Style and R-Line – and with GTI, GTD and GTE versions. The line-up consists of a 1.0-litre 110PS three-cylinder petrol engine and two 1.5-litre TSI petrol engines with 130 and 150 PS, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Diesel options include 115 or 150 PS 2.0-litre units, the former with a 6-speed manual, the latter with a seven-speed DSG transmission, which is only offered in Style trim.

In addition, there’s an eTSI 48V mild-hybrid 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre petrol engines, fitted with the seven-speed DSG transmission.

All new Golfs feature cutting-edge Car2X technology. This facilitates wireless communication between the new Golf and other Car2X-equipped vehicles on the road, as well as ‘street furniture’, allowing the car to more effectively pre-empt hazards on the road such as stationary traffic ahead, approaching emergency vehicles and more. Given its likely sales, the Golf is arguably the most important mainstream car to have Car2X fitted as standard to date.

Life is predicted to be the most popular trim for the new Golf in the UK. Prices start from £23,300 for the 1.0 version. All Life models are generously equipped, coming as they do with 16” ‘Norfolk’ alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors with memory feature, and keyless start.

The Golf Life also features Volkswagen’s Innovision Cockpit, which incorporates a 10.25” Active Info Display in the car’s instrument binnacle, as well as a large and clear 10” Discover Navigation touchscreen infotainment system. For the 2020 model year all Golfs will be equipped with Discover Pro

16 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

Navigation. This comes complete with DAB and FM radio, as well as USB and Bluetooth connectivity with Wireless App-Connect. It also includes a three-year subscription to We Connect Plus, unlocking a wealth of information and services ranging from media streaming to parking space information, and an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot. Further convenience is added with a wireless charging function for compatible smartphones, while natural voice control allows the driver to activate many of the car’s features without raising a finger, all while using less formal language and delivery than in previous such systems.

The Golf Life is also packed with driver assistance systems. These include Adaptive Cruise Control, a Driver Alert System, Dynamic Road Sign Display, Lane and Front Assist, with extended pedestrian protection measures also installed on the model. An XDS electronic differential lock now features on the new Golf, providing improved traction and handling.

Customers opting for Style, which costs from £25,495, will see improved specification, with 17” ‘Belmont’ alloy wheels, LED ‘Plus’ headlights, sports comfort seats, ambient lighting, 3Zone climate control and ‘Luxury Brown Wood’ decorative inserts.

The R-Line trim starts at £26,165 and includes VW’s Innovision digital cockpit as standard, wireless smartphone charging, mirroring, front sport seats with ‘Sardegna’ cloth trim, rear LED lights and 30-colour ambient interior lighting.

Although VW rarely alters the Golf’s looks much from version to version, the new model does feature a lower nose, slim LED headlights, narrow rear tail-light clusters, with the redesigned VW badge above the Golf lettering. It is also 26mm longer than before, but 36mm lower, which gives it a sportier stance.

It’s inside where things have noticeably changed, with the addition of new technology and a premium feel. Volkswagen has decided to clean up the dashboard, so there’s very few physical buttons and almost everything is controlled from the central infotainment touchscreen display and a digital dial cluster.

The Active Info display, which sits in front of the driver, is standard across the range, which is a first for the family hatchback class. Connectivity includes Amazon Alexa voice assistance, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and online radio.

While VW is still offering fleet customers a diesel version of the Golf, we decided to test one of the petrol 1.5.

Our test car was a Golf Life 1.5 TSI 130 PS 6-speed manual, which comes with a BIK of 27 per cent. Climb aboard and the first thing you’ll notice is the up-market cabin. Having driven the latest SKODA Octavia just two weeks prior to the Golf, it was clear to see that the VW is finished to a higher quality than its company cousin. The dashboard feels solid in a mixture of soft touch black and silver plastic, with even the glove box and door pockets, two places where it’s traditional to cut corners, feeling top notch. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

TECH DATA Golf Life 1.5 TSI 130 PS 6-speed manual PRICE: from £23,670 CO2: 122g/km MPG: 50-61 BIK: 27%

The seats are comfortable and supportive and up front, passengers get decent head and legroom. There are two USBs in the front and two in the rear, but you’ll need adaptors as they are C-connection versions.

Much has been talked about the new controls and the infotainment within the car, but I found it relatively straightforward to use.

Perhaps a week spent in the Octavia had helped, because the lack of any buttons could be a little daunting.

To be fair to VW, there are some buttons. On the right of the steering wheel you’ll find the lights and in the centre dash, located between two air-vents, are short-cut buttons labelled ASSIST, CLIMA and MENU. This allows you to select CLIMA and access the climate control functions on the touchscreen while you are on the move, and they are easily adjusted.

Furthermore, there are slim temperature controls neatly located under the touchscreen, so you can bypass the screen altogether, a sensible inclusion.

The landscape screen is where you’ll learn to access most of the vehicle’s functions. Here you can get into the SatNav, DAB radio, Bluetooth and connected Apps. It doesn’t take long to get the hang of these either. Apple CarPlay connection was seamless and www.companycarandvan.co.uk

handsfree phone calls straightforward. On the steering wheel there are switches and buttons including the adaptive cruise control and those for accessing the 10.25” Active Info Display, where you can check on your mileage, speed, fuel economy and car functions.

Our week in the Golf included a 200-mile round trip to Coventry, where it performed admirably on the motorway, with the car returning an average of 61.1mpg at motorway speeds. It’s a quiet, comfortable cabin to be in, well insulated against road and wind noise.

Utilising the cruise control takes the hassle out of long journeys and the cabin features some good storage for drinks, keys, iPhone, sunglasses and the like. The 1.5 litre engine provides decent overtaking power, with 62mph reached in 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 133 mph.

For the remainder of the week we drove the Golf locally on urban roads and that happy feeling it gave off on the motorway continued.

The six-speed gearbox is smooth and the shortish change means that you can happily drive in fifth gear at 30mph. The engine StopStart was also very good.

Slower, town driving did affect our fuel economy, as we saw it drop to 50.7mpg.

Volkswagen claims a high MPG of 61.5 and a combined figure of 52.6, so it would seem that our figures pretty much matched the claimed, which is always good.

With CO2 emissions of 122g/km further adding to the appeal, I think I may, just as EVs take over, have finally been won over by a petrol Golf! Better late than never.

VERDICT A petrol Golf that adds premium touches in the cabin, has a classleading info package and delivers mpg in the 50-60 bracket: tell me honestly, what’s not to love? As close as you’ll get in this sector to perfection.

If it was a golf course, it’d be toss up between Augusta and St Andrews CC&V RATING: NNNNN

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 17

ON TEST: LEXUS UX

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Lexus UX: motoring sweet dreams are made of this Andrew Walker runs a rule over Lexus’ premium SUV The smallest Lexus crossover, the UX, landed in 2019 and went head-to-head with the likes of the BMW X1, Audi Q3, Volvo XC40, Mercedes GLA and BMW X2. It follows sister brands the Prius and C-HR on Toyota’s TNGA platform.

There’s just the one powertrain for UK customers, a 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid, although it is offered with both 2WD and 4WD Lexus has thus far steadfastly avoided the EV sector, preferring to continue with selfcharging hybrids, and the latest Lexus is no different. The good news is that it offers impressive fuel economy, which on the model we were testing, the UX 250 2WD, comes with a combined WLTP fuel economy of 49.5mpg: that’s impressive for a petrol driven car under the new regulations.

It also makes a fine fist of standing out. Up front, the familiar Lexus spindle grille features a new mesh pattern and there’s narrow LED headlights on the front corners, which are standard across the range. It also features large wheel arches and rear lights that span the full width of the hatch back, ending with a bulbous finish at either side.

The UX 250h comes very well equipped, with 18″alloys, auto folding heated door mirrors, an acoustic windscreen, rear privacy glass and chrome roof rails. Standard kit includes dual zone climate control, a push button start button, A reversing camera, a heated steering wheel and rain sensing wipers.

Our test car also included the Premium Plus Pack, featuring the Japanese Paper dash top, power backdoor, key less entry, and cornering lights, an additional £2,300 as well as the Tech and Safety Pack, with a heads up display, wireless charger, three-eye LED and AHS headlamps, an extra £1,400.

The interior oozes quality: the steering wheel and clock are straight out of the £50,000 LS saloon, the top of the dash is finished to the highest quality in Japanese Paper and all of the switchgear is top notch, too.

Even the seats are available in three finishes: fabric, leather, or a combination of the two.

There are also five colours to choose from on the standard UX, with our test car fitted with cream leather.

The Lexus 7” infotainment screen sits in the centre top of the dashboard and allows access to all of the cars main functions. The UX features a touchpad control system, which can prove a little fiddly, especially when you’re moving. Design details include two cylindrical buttons above the steering wheel which jut out like horns from the dash, one of which controls 20 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

the driving functions, Normal, Eco and Sport; the EV function is selected by pressing a button between the front seats.

The Lexus SatNav is pretty good and the option of Bluetooth and USB mean that accessing music or podcasts from your phone is easy – but even better is the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, allowing you to access Google Maps and making hands-free phone use easier.

Interior space up front is great, with the wraparound dashboard still leaving plenty of knee and legroom. You don’t actually sit as high up in the UX as many competitors and it doesn’t feel like you’re in an SUV. Rear passengers are a little compromised, especially if you’re sat behind a tall front passenger. The centre rear seat suffers the most, as it’s higher than the outer seats and is only large enough for a small teen or younger.

Cabin storage is also average. There’s a smallish glovebox, twin front door bins, a decent cubby under the central armrest which cleverly opens both ways and hides the USB connection plus a couple of cup holders. But the rear seats split 60:40 and there’s a useful removable flat boot floor enabling easy loading/ unloading. With this removed, the UX offers 320 litres of space which, when you look around, isn’t great; the similar-sized VW T-Roc offers 445 litres, for example.

The best thing about the UX is its handling.

The CVT gear box can be a little frustrating on other models but here works well. The UX, although a crossover/SUV, sits quite low to the ground and is a lot of fun to drive when you’re lucky enough to find some winding B roads. It hugs corners tightly and springs out of them

quickly, putting a smile on your face. In the confines of metropolitan driving it’s also a hit.

The cabin is well insulated from outside noise and in the city, especially at lower speeds or stuck in traffic, the EV function can be utilised.

At anything under 20mph progress is serene and the UX’s smallish size makes it easy to park as well.

For company car drivers looking at saving a few quid, the UX 250d comes with CO2 emissions of 95g/km and a BIK in year one of 22%, with a 23% rate in years two and three.

In comparison, an Audi Q2 with 150bhp is 29% in year one, rising to 30% in years two and three. That’s a big saving. Add in the combined fuel economy of 49.5mpg – we averaged 43.6mpg – which is at least 10-15mpg better in our experience than a non petrol-hybrid and for fleet customers, the news just gets better and better.

It’s also great to drive, is brilliantly put together and with connected apps now offered, ticks all the boxes. Our only minor criticism is that the boot is on the small side.

VERDICT Up against the Audi Q2, BMW X2, Mercedes GLA & Volvo XC40, the UX competes well, offering bulletproof reliability and top-notch build quality. The addition of the UX300e in 2021 will give Lexus its first all-electric car.

CC&V RATING: NNNN www.companycarandvan.co.uk

NEW CAR REVIEW : HYUNDAI I20

Hyundai Motor UK has announced the pricing and specification of the all-new i20, the latest electrified model to join the range and the first to showcase Hyundai’s new design language.

The i20 is the first car in the UK range to introduce Hyundai’s new ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design language, which is characterised by the combination of four fundamental elements: proportion, architecture, styling and technology. Its proportions have been made more dynamic, with its visual stance improved over the previous model with a roof lowered by 24mm, a 30mm wider body, an increase of 5mm in length and an increase in wheelbase of 10mm.

For the first time, the i20 will offer the 1.0 turbocharged GDi engine combined with a 48v hybrid powertrain, delivering 100PS and 172Nm torque and CO2 emissions from 115g/ km. This turbocharged engine, standard across the i20 range, is matched with the latest 6 speed automated manual transmission as standard, with an optional 7 speed dual clutch version also available.

The i20 is equipped with Hyundai’s SmartSense safety package, with many active and passive safety features not typically seen in the B-segment.

Following on from i10’s successful range realignment earlier this year, the i20 introduces a simplified range line up starting with the SE Connect, which provides customers with a desirable mix of specification, technology and powertrain efficiency. This enhanced specification across the new i20 range has ensured an increase in residual value of 4.6 percentage points over the previous i20 making it one of the highest future values in the Bsegment after 3 years and 30,000 miles.

The i20 SE Connect is priced at £18,595.

Offering a far higher level of specification than the previous entry level S Connect trim, the SE Connect offers 16” alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights and halogen projector headlamps with static cornering function. Interior equipment includes an 8” touchscreen display 22 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

New i20 adds a spot of ‘sensuous sportiness’ TECH DATA Hyundai i20 SE Connect 1.0 T-GDi 100 PS CO2: 115g/km VED: G VED Cost: £165 OTR: £18,595 P11D £18,375

audio with subscription free Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, 10.25” supervision instrument cluster with customisable functions, manual air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter function, leather wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, rear parking sensors with rear view camera and electrically adjustable and heated wing mirrors. Hyundai’s SmartSense safety package is also standard, offering E-Call, Forward Collision Alert (FCA), Driver Attention Alert (DAA), Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

The i20 Premium is available from £20,795 and builds on the SE Connect trim, with enhanced exterior trim including 17” alloy wheels, LED headlights, LED rear combination lamps, front fog lamps, power folding door mirrors, privacy glass and chrome beltline.

Additional specification includes automatic wipers, automatically dimming rear view mirror, automatic air conditioning with climate control, interior mood lighting, heated front seats,

heated steering wheel and front arm rest. The Premium trim level also includes a 10.25” touchscreen navigation with subscription free Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, as well as Hyundai’s Bluelink® telematics system which carries a free of charge 5 year subscription. Bluelink® is a smartphone app based connected car service that enables drivers to carry out a number of different functions whilst away from their vehicle, including remote central locking activation and vehicle parked location information. In addition to the driver convenience features, Bluelink® serves as a convenient diagnostic tool which will notify the driver of any vehicle maintenance issues that require attention. Lane Follow Assist (LFA) is added to the comprehensive SmartSense safety package carried over from the SE Connect trim.

All new i20 also introduces a new trim level for Hyundai, with the high specification Ultimate trim. The i20 Ultimate is available from £22,095 and adds to the Premium trim level with additional equipment including a two tone roof as standard and grey interior trim. Additional features include Smart Key with keyless entry and engine start/stop button, a wireless charging pad for compatible devices, Blindspot Collision Warning (BCW) and Forward Collision Assist (FCA) with cyclist detection.

In addition to the SE Connect, Premium and Ultimate, the i20 N and N Line will join the range in 2021.

All New i20 models come with Hyundai’s industry leading 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty, Roadside Assistance package, 5 Year Annual Health Check, and 12 Year Anti Corrosion Warranty. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: MAZDA MX-30

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Mazda MX-30 takes things to next level All-electric model engineered to deliver same driving pleasure

The MX-30 is Mazda’s first all-electric production vehicle and part of an electrification strategy that has already seen the Mazda M Hybrid powertrain fitted as standard to the Mazda3 and Mazda CX-30.

With its unique freestyle doors, ecological materials and right-sized battery giving a range of approximately 125miles, exceeding the 30-mile average daily drive of the European customer, the Mazda

MX-30 marks another positive step in Mazda’s multi-solution approach to reducing emissions following the recent arrival of the innovative Skyactiv-X engine.

A stylish and versatile crossover, the Mazda MX-30 features an AC synchronous electric motor and a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery that delivers a range of approximately 124miles and comes with AC charging up to 6.6Kw and DC

24 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

rapid charging designed to meet 125A Combo Charging standards.

Reflecting a unique expression of Kodo design, the MX-30’s styling emphasises the cars beauty as a solid mass, while the freestyle doors and framed glasshouse hint at the open spaciousness of the cabin. The front doors open forward to an angle of 82 degrees, while the rear doors open backwards to an angle of 80 degrees to reveal a stylish and driver focused interior. Inside, the sense of space is enhanced with a floating centre console that sits independently from the dashboard, while the use of environmentallyfriendly materials has been carefully matched to meticulous quality and finish.

The cabin has a sense of oneness, flowing from the top of A pillar to the rear end. The colour of the framed top roof makes this feeling even clearer. The freestyle doors give the Mazda MX-30 a distinctive and elegant cabin silhouette, as well as providing customers with easier access to both the front and rear seats. In the interior, the use of eco-friendly materials is prominent, and Mazda has even gone as far as replacing much of the real leather with a vegan alternative.

The lower console incorporates a 7-inch colour touch-screen air conditioning control panel, and in a nod to Mazda’s founding as the Toyo Kogyo Cork Company in 1920, the Mazda MX-30 features cork-lined centre console trays and inner side door handles. Harvested from the bark of trees without felling, the use of cork and door

trim materials that incorporate fibres from recycled plastic bottles, are perfectly suited to Mazda’s first pure electric production car.

Standard interior equipment also includes a windscreen projecting head-up display, 8-way electric adjustable drivers’ seat, a colour 7-inch TFT dial display, a leather wrapped steering wheel and chrome trim accents.

As you’d expect the MX-30 comes with Mazda Connect, navigation, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the technology tally also includes Mazda Radar Cruise control and a driver’s knee airbag.

Mazda MX-30 buyers will receive a free wall box home charger, while the car is equipped with both a Type 2 mode 2 charge cable for 3-pin plug charging and a Type 2 mode 3 charge cable for AC charging via home or public charge points. Additionally, the DC socket allows for rapid charging up to 50Kw. In this charge mode a charging time of 30 to 40 minutes can deliver up to 80 per cent battery charge.

Like every other Mazda, the Mazda MX-30 provides a very natural and responsive driving feel by accelerating, turning and braking exactly as you intend in everyday driving situations. This is achieved through the innovative engineering approaches in the e-Skyactiv package. This includes also the battery being rigidly integrated into the vehicle body structure which enhances the overall body stiffness and provides excellent response to the driver’s input. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE

Real-time fun in an electric mode The DS3 Crossback now comes with an electric drivetrain, called the E-Tense, which was launched last year. It’s an all-electric B-segment SUV that’s offered with the same electric set-up as our current Small EV Car of the Year, the Peugeot e-208.

The PSA Group is deadly serious about EVs and the electric drivetrain of DS 3 Crossback E-Tense is a 100kW (136hp) electric motor with 260Nm of torque, linked to a 50kWh Lithium-ion battery and a system for recovering energy during deceleration and braking. The potential range is 200 miles on the WLTP cycle.

E-Tense customers can choose from pretty much the same specs as offered on petrol and diesel versions. Performance Line, Prestige, Ultra Prestige and La Premiere are the four versions available from launch, with prices starting at £30,990, for Performance Line, rising to £36,490 for La Premiere, both including the government grant.

At first glance the E-Tense looks just like a standard DS3 Crossback, but if you look a little closer you’ll notice subtle differences. E-Tense features a Pearl Crystal paint finish, satinchrome finishes, E-Tense emblems and a special rear bumper, which is missing an exhaust pipe. Inside, the 10” landscape touchscreen is a highlight and the angular electric window switches set in the centre

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

binnacle are also refreshingly different.

The top and front of the dashboard are nicely finished in quality plastics but lower down, on the glovebox, centre storage arm rest and door pockets, the quality isn’t as high.

It is fully loaded, equipment wise, however, with an electronic parking brake, electrically adjustable and folding door mirrors, keyless start, Hill Start Assist, automatic air conditioning and a Head Up Display.

The E-Tense rides on the same underpinnings as petrol and diesel versions of the DS 3 Crossback. In the EV version the 50kWh battery is mounted under the floor, sending drive to the front axle. With 260Nm torque; 0-62mph takes nine seconds and the top speed is 93mph.

If you can find a suitable charging station, the

DS 3 Crossback E-Tense can be recharged at 100kW and will go from zero to 80% full in 30 minutes. If you have a 7.2kWh home charger, then this will take a little longer, around five hours. The single phase 7kW on-board charger will be the standard offering for the UK market.

Additionally, the car can be charged from a standard domestic socket, but it’s very, very slow and not recommended.

We took the E-Tense out for a couple of hours to see how it drives. Our route took in city centre driving, 36 miles of motorway and some country lanes and B roads. It does feel heavy compared to it’s fossil-fuel brethren. But, as with the e-208, the extra 300kg of battery weight is in the floor of the car, so it doesn’t feel unbalanced. Although it rides well on good and average surfaces, that extra weight means it tends to sink lower into ruts in the road and struggles over poor surfaces, which in turn send a few shudders into the cabin.

Despite this grumble, the E-Tense is fitted with what is currently one of the best electric powertrains out there. In our first hour we drove in Eco mode. It offers just 80bhp but even on the motorway, this was enough power for decent cruising. At an average of 70mph the range does go down faster than if you were driving in town, so do bear that in mind.

CC&V RATING: N N N N

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 25

ON TEST: KIA SORENTO

Sorento has all the answers Is the tide-turning against big SUVs? Not if they are as clever as Kia’s Sorento, says Andrew Walker Despite climate change and the congestion charge, the popularity of large SUVs shows no sign of abating. KIA has just launched an all-new Sorento, a large SUV, but has done so with an eye on the future by adding a mildhybrid petrol with a full plug-in version coming later. For those who travel long distances or need to tow up to 2,500kg, there’s still a diesel Sorento, as the petrol version can’t match the diesel’s towing prowess at only 1,650kg.

CC&V went along to the UK launch of the Sorento and grabbed the opportunity to drive both petrol and diesel engines.

The new Sorento is offered in three specs: ‘2’, ‘3’ and ‘4’, with a choice of a 2.2-litre CRDi ‘Smartstream’ diesel engine with 199bhp or a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with self-charging hybrid technology.

It’s an aggressive-looking car. The front features a much larger grille than the previous version, with new vertical tail lamps which wrap around the side of the body. The large D-pillars

26 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

are still there, but it’s at the rear where you’ll notice the biggest changes. The rear tailgate offers twin rear light clusters which look very ‘Bentayga’.

KIA has added plenty of on-trend tech, improved kit across the range. Entry level ‘2’ comes with 17” alloys, seven seats, dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, tinted glass, roof rails, five USB charge ports, a heated steering wheel and front seats, LED headlights, rear combination lights, daytime running lights, front and rear fog lights, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8” touchscreen with DAB and a reversing camera.

Opt for ‘3’ and this adds 19” wheels, ambient interior lighting, electric leather seats with lumbar support, keyless entry, a powered tailgate, a larger 10.3” touchscreen and wireless phone charging. This is the only trim available with the diesel engine.

Move up to the range topping ‘4’ and you’ll find window blinds for the second row, a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof and ventilated front seats, but with an asking price of £46,945, it’s an expensive way to get into a Sorento.

All models get top-notch active safety: Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Multi-Collision Brake Assist (MCBA), Intelligent Speed Limit

Assist (ISLA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Downhill Brake Control (DBC), Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Follow Assist (LFA)and Driver Attention Warning (DAW). Plus, you get the reassurance of Terrain Mode Select, choose from Mud, Snow or Sand, for on or off road driving.

We tried out the Kia Sorento ‘2’ 1.6 HEV T-GDi Auto AWD first, which costs £38,845 OTR. Unsurprisingly, the cabin is spacious and the dashboard cocoons the driver into a comfortable driving position. Nice design touches include four rhombus shaped air-vents, with smaller vents underneath and nice design detail above the glove box.

The centre arm rest, door pockets and glove box door are all solidly made and overall, the interior is finished to a very high quality. Storage comes in the form of large door pockets, space under the arm rest, two centre cup holders and a spot for your keys behind these.

The rear twin seats fold flat into the boot floor and in this configuration, the boot space offers customers 616 litres. Fold down all five rear seats and this increases to 2,011 litres, plenty big enough for most.

Our test car was powered by the 1.6-litre hybrid powertrain, which comprises a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, a

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

small 1.49kWh battery and an electric motor. It offers a combined fuel economy of 40.9 mpg, with CO2 emission of 158 g/km. There’s a useful 226bhp on offer with 350Nm of torque, a 0-60mph time of 8.7 seconds and a top speed of 119mph.

For a large car it actually feels easy to drive.

The steering is light and coupled with the 6-speed auto box, the petrol engine offers very quiet urban driving. The ride feels firm.

We also tried out the range-topping ‘4’ 1.6 HEV T-GDi Auto AWD, which costs £46,945 OTR. The ‘4’ comes with a lot more kit and because of this, offers slightly worse CO2 emissions of 169g/km and a combined

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

economy of 38.2mpg. Driving this version the Sorento’s firmer set-up is even more noticeable, as it tended to crash around over the UK’s badly maintained roads. It does, though, offer plenty of stability and on the motorway feels very accomplished.

Finally, we spent some time with the diesel Sorento ‘3’ 2.2 CRDi DCT8 AWD, which cost’s £41,245 OTR. As soon as you pull away in this you notice how much heavier the diesel feels to its petrol brethren. It’s not terrible, just a reminder that petrol hybrids are getting better; after a few minutes, you soon get used to the heavier feel.

The diesel is the version to go for if you tow

or drive big miles. It comes with a maximum torque of 440Nm, a 0-60mph time of 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 127mph.

Combined fuel economy is 42.2mpg with CO2 emissions of 176g/km.

We have to say that although the diesel offers the slightly better mpg figure – the self-charging hybrid is capable of 40.9mpg on the WLTP combined economy cycle, with the diesel managing 42.2mpg – we preferred the feel of the self-charging hybrid.

The combination of its petrol engine, 44.2kW drive motor and the 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, makes for a lighter, more enjoyable ride and the lower CO2 emissions will also help reduce your company BIK. Not for the first time we have been swayed by a petrol hybrid over a diesel and for company car drivers who need a large SUV, the petrol hybrid kitted out in ‘3’ spec is the one we’d recommend.

VERDICT Hard to fault. Drives lighter than its size suggests, and CO2/ BIK figures will impress company car drivers.

CC&V RATING: NNNN

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 27

NEW CAR REVIEW: JAGUAR XE

Jaguar’s on the prowl as updates renew executive appeal

T

he Jaguar XE now features a new electrified powertrain option and latest connected technologies. For the first time, the next-generation 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium diesel is available with the latest Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology for enhanced efficiency.

Inside, Jaguar’s state-of-the-art Pivi Pro dual-sim infotainment system ensures the XE is always connected. The intuitive new interface makes it easier for drivers to view information and perform frequently used functions on the move. Focused detailed changes to the interior add further luxurious touches, including an updated seat design, while the new split-rim steering wheel design with metal gear shift paddles deliver a more engaging look and feel.

Advanced, efficient engines The new XE is available with the next generation Ingenium 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged 204PS diesel engine, along with the latest 250PS and 300PS petrol engines.

All XE models are available with Jaguar’s eight-speed automatic transmission, the full powertrain range is: The 2.0-litre four-cylinder 204PS Ingenium diesel engine features Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology for the first time, working in tandem with a 48V lithium-ion battery located beneath the rear loadspace. It is able to redeploy stored energy to assist the

30 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

engine when accelerating away while also delivering a more refined and responsive stop/ start system.

The new engine powers the XE from 0-60mph in 6.9 seconds and is capable of up to 58.5mpg with CO2 emissions as low as 127g/km on the WLTP test cycle.

Petrol customers can choose between the 2.0-litre 250PS or a 300PS version of the Ingenium, producing 365Nm and 400Nm of torque respectively. The 250PS petrol engine delivers fuel economy of up to 35.6mpg, from CO2 emissions of 179g/km and 0-60mph in 6.4 seconds. The powerful 300PS engine – exclusively mated to Jaguar’s intelligent all-wheel drive system – is able to propel the XE from 0-60mph in 5.6 seconds.

The XE features Jaguar’s latest Pivi Pro infotainment system, accessed through the seamlessly integrated 10-inch central touchscreen, while the optional 5.5-inch lower touchscreen (standard with R-Dynamic HSE specification pack), also powered by the new Pivi technology, combines two multi-functional LED rotary controllers for intuitive operation of key vehicle functions.

To help drivers access vital information quickly, the 12.3-inch HD Interactive Driver Display gets enhanced graphics and a configurable layout which can show full screen navigation mapping with turn-by-turn instructions, digital dials, media, contact list or infotainment details. Working in conjunction

with the latest Head-up Display technology, XE gives drivers all the information they need without distraction.

World-class design XE’s luxurious interior retains soft-touch and authentic materials throughout. Everything from the instrument panel topper and console sides to the door armrest and lower cabin are wrapped in tactile materials for improved comfort. A new split-rim steering wheel design further emphasises the attention to detail within the cabin. Elsewhere throughout the cabin, details include an embossed Jaguar Leaper on the headrests and a new quilt design is available for the seating.

Enhanced Cabin Air Ionisation improves interior air quality through Nanoe™ technology, which removes allergens and unpleasant odours. The system now also features PM2.5 filtration, which captures ultra-fine particles – including PM2.5 particulates – to improve occupant health and wellbeing. The customer activates the system simply by pressing the ‘Purify’ button.

The exterior, extensively updated when the new XE was introduced last year, features the same wide grille and bumper design, delivering a planted appearance.

The grille features a lattice mesh design with a full, curved profile – a visual cue shared with the all-electric • Prices starts from £30,205.

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

E-PACE gains more efficient engines, new tech and enhanced interior

JAGUAR E-PACE

With a refreshed exterior, enhanced interior, the latest Pivi Pro infotainment, new vehicle architecture and a choice of powerful and efficient engines – including an advanced Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrain – the new Jaguar E-PACE is more assertive, connected, refined and efficient than ever.

The new P300e PHEV powertrain combines a 200PS 1.5-litre three-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine and a 109PS (80kW) Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) motor. It provides the ability to drive up to 34 miles in zero emissions EV mode, with combined CO2 emissions of 44g/km and fuel economy up to 141mpg (2.0 l/100km) (WLTP TEH combined).

Inside, customers benefit from the latest Pivi Pro infotainment, which provides intuitive control of the vehicle systems with simplified menus and enhanced connectivity, including Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) updates.

Enhanced exterior The exterior design enhancements give Jaguar’s compact performance SUV a more assertive stance and luxurious appearance. At the front the changes include a revised lower aperture incorporating a distinctive blade element. A new grille mesh design with diamond detailing is influenced by the Jaguar heritage logo and features a contemporary Noble Chrome finish, while new side fender vents feature the iconic Leaper emblem.

New all-LED headlights feature ‘Double J’ Daytime Running Light (DRL) signatures, which are available with optional Pixel LED technology, delivering increased resolution and brightness. Adaptive Driving Beam capability evaluates the road ahead and automatically adapts the high beam pattern by selecting different LED segments to mask oncoming traffic or traffic signs, to optimise visibility and www.companycarandvan.co.uk

reduce glare without distracting other drivers.

At the rear, the lower bumper features a new mesh insert which sits between the integrated tail pipes that are standard with four-cylinder petrol engines. All other engine derivatives gain new slim horizontal blade finishers. The all-LED rear lights are inspired by the all-electric I-PACE and feature Jaguar’s chicane graphic, showcasing the advanced technology and modernity of the overall design.

Beautifully crafted interior The interior of the new E-PACE features heightened luxury, enhanced connectivity and greater refinement. At its heart is the integrated 11.4-inch curved-glass HD touchscreen at the centre of the dashboard, which controls the new Pivi Pro infotainment system. Chemically strengthened, the glass screen features two coatings; one which is anti-glare and a second which resists fingerprints.

The driver focused interior also provides easier access to the larger stowage area in front of the new Drive Selector with space for an optional 15W wireless device charger.

Driver touchpoints around the cluster are now wrapped in soft touch materials whilst the knee side contact area has been sculpted to provide improved luxury and comfort.

The new Drive Selector – just one of the many beautiful details – is lower and wider and features an upper section finished with ‘cricket-ball’ stitching, the lower part being made of precision-engineered metal for enhanced tactility.

A new steering wheel, which is influenced by the design in the all-electric I-PACE performance SUV, features hidden-until-lit switches and metal gearshift paddles.

Heightened attention to detail is provided by an embossed Jaguar Leaper on the headrests while ‘Est.1935 Jaguar Coventry’ upholstery

tags reference the history and heritage of the brand. Additional beautiful details include Jaguar animal print pattern in the central cubby area and in front of the drive selector.

Plug-in power and performance New E-PACE utilises Jaguar’s Premium Transverse Architecture. This includes the new three-cylinder P300e PHEV powertrain as well as the next-generation four-cylinder diesel and latest petrol Ingenium engines, which feature Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology.

The new engine line-up comprises three diesel engines and four petrol. The new P300e PHEV powertrain combines the 200PS 1.5-litre three-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine and a 109PS (80kW) Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) motor. This ensures impressive performance and efficiency, with 0-60mph in 6.1seconds (0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds), CO2 emissions of 44g/km and fuel economy up to 141mpg (2.0 l/100km) (WLTP TEH combined).

The compact ERAD motor is powered by a 15kWh lithium-ion battery located under the boot floor. When fully charged it provides up to 34 miles of all-electric range, enabling the new E-PACE PHEV to complete the average UK daily commute, to and from work, of 18.8 miles in EV mode without requiring a recharge.

The 163PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel MHEV produces 380Nm, with CO2 emissions from 167g/km and fuel economy up to 44.3mpg (6.4 l/100km). The 204PS MHEV produces 430 Nm and is capable of covering 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 8.4 seconds) while returning up to 43.9mpg (6.4 l/100km) with CO2 emissions from 169g/km*.

Also available in six-speed manual transmission, FWD-only form is a 163PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel non-MHEV engine with CO2 emissions from 158g/km and fuel economy up to 46.9mpg (6.0 l/100km).

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 31

ON TEST: TOYOTA C-HR

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Futuristic C-HR brings the Mad Max look to suburbia Andrew Walker loves the ultra-modern look of the funky Toyota C-HR Toyota’s C-HR crossover has been updated for 2020 and now comes with an all-hybrid line-up, giving customers the choice of a newgeneration 1.8-litre hybrid system or a more powerful, all-new 2.0-litre powertrain.

The established 120bhp 1.8-litre hybrid system remains in the range, with its eco performance enhanced by size, weight and efficiency improvements in all its principal hybrid components, plus an upgrade to a lithium-ion high-voltage battery. CO2 emissions start from 109g/km WLTP, and the new 2.0-litre system produces 182bhp, with CO2 emissions from 119g/km WLTP. When we drove the C-HR in 2017 we noted the lack of connected Apps on both it and across the rest of the Toyota range. That’s changed: the new C-HR now features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing the most commonly used smartphones to synchronise and merge with the car’s media-system.

The new C-HR follows Toyota’s established grade structure. Entry point is the Icon, offered exclusively with the improved 1.8-litre selfcharging hybrid system, followed by Design, which can be specified with either the 1.8 or new 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain, and then Excel and Dynamic grades sharing top-of-the-range status.

Whichever model you choose you’ll find it well equipped, with Icon featuring 17” alloys, a reversing camera, dual zone automatic air-con and Toyota Safety Sense. Design grade builds on this specification, with 18” alloys, rear privacy glass, Intelligent Clearance Sonar with auto brake, front and rear parking sensors, SatNav and smart entry. Dynamic is further enhanced by the addition of Rear Cross Traffic Alert with auto braking, a blind spot monitor, adaptive LED lights front and rear, metallic paint and a black bi-tone roof. Excel includes rear LED lights, a heated steering wheel, leather seat upholstery, powered driver’s seat adjustment and an adaptive front lighting system.

The C-HR features a low roofline, which gives its five-door body a coupé-look. The rear door handles are hidden in the C-Pillars and are a style statement all on their own. The roof has a cool rear overhang on it, the rear lights look like the badges worn on Star Trek uniforms and the aggressive front is finished off 32 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

nicely by the two highly placed front headlights.

There doesn’t appear to be a right angle anywhere, which is refreshing to say the least !

Crucially, Toyota has worked hard to deliver a premium interior, and the latest C-HR is much closer to the inside of a Lexus than a Toyota has the right to be. High quality plastics and gloss black inserts featured on my test model.

The stand out is still the large central infotainment screen, located in the centre of the dashboard.

The C-HR offers both a comfortable ride and decent handling, with all four passengers benefitting from the supple suspension and lack of body roll that’s on offer. The relatively high driving position offers a good view of the road ahead, but you do need the reversing camera to get past those massive C-Pillars when reversing. rest assured it’s a great camera.

My 1.8 model, was a big improvement over the old 1.2 I drove back in 2017. The extra power makes a big difference on the motorway and in town you get the benefit of an auto box and zero noise in EV mode.

All versions come with a choice of Sport, Normal or Eco modes, which alter the weight of the steering, the throttle response and CVT gearbox strategies to suit your mood and the road conditions. I tried all three, choosing in the main to drive with Eco on the motorway in cruise control, Normal around town and Sport on the open road. In all honesty the difference between all three wasn’t that noticeable, though Normal Mode definitely felt the most comfortable to be in.

On the motorway the useful adaptive cruise

control made longer journeys just that bit easier and, of course, far more relaxing, especially on any Smart motorways I encountered.

The 1.8 engine offers only 120bhp and consequently, the C-HR takes 11 seconds to go from 0-60mph. CO2 emissions of 110g/km will appeal to fleet customers, as will the claimed combined fuel economy of 57.6mpg.

We drove the C-HR for 450 miles on a selection of urban, extra urban and motorway roads and managed to average 51.4mpg in our seven days in it. I would say that was a pretty good return and something self-charging hybrids are really good for.

Negatives? The adaptive cruise control made it hard to adjust the distance between you and the car in front, and the CVT auto box, though brilliant in town, isn’t as polished when accelerating on an incline, especially on the motorway. But that, as they say, is it.

VERDICT Updates make a big improvement, particularly the connected Apps. Fleet customers will be happy with the improved economy and lower emissions. Still looks ahead of its time, reminiscent of a vehicle from Mad Max, which has to be a good thing.

CC&V RATING: NNNN www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: SKODA SUPERB iV

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Superb way to dodge tax bullet Andrew Walker The Skoda Superb iV hybrid sits alongside conventional petrol and diesel models in the range and offers most appeal to company car drivers, with a 12% BIK from April 2020. Add in 148.7mpg fuel economy and emissions of 38g/km and anyone looking for a large family saloon or estate should really take note.

In comparison, the 2.0-litre 190hp diesel Superb, with similar performance, has a 20/21 BIK of 32%: the savings are a no-brainer.

The iV features a 1.4-litre petrol four-cylinder turbo engine paired to a 113bhp electric motor and 13kWh battery. As with all PHEVs, make the most of its range by plugging-in regularly.

We were testing the Superb SE L 1.4TSI 218PS fitted with the six-speed DSG gearbox.

It’s well equipped, with 18” Zenith alloys, full matrix LED headlights with AFS and LED daytime running lights, Adaptive Cruise Control, Bluetooth, Amundsen SatNav with 8” colour touchscreen and integrated WiFi, wireless SmartLink for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus front and rear USBs. The interior will be familiar both to owners of Skodas as well as others in the VAG family. It’s very logically laid out with great build quality, peppered with nice upmarket gadgets such as the touchscreen which operates the SatNav,

34 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

DAB, SmartLink and Bluetooth functions.

There’s also class-leading interior space, especially in the rear, plus 510 litres in the boot.

My test drive over 330 miles of motorways allowed me to check out the Superb as a motorway companion. It didn’t disappoint.

From start, the Superb defaults to E-mode and for my shortish drive to the motorway I utilised the battery. Once up and running, though, I switched to Hybrid mode and set cruise control. You can also select Sport mode which results in a firmer drive and a little bit more overtaking power.

On the motorway, the seemingly too small 1.4 TSI petrol engine does an excellent job, as

long as you don’t have to slow down, where it takes a while to get going again. This is not a problem in town where the battery and petrol engine work in harmony.

Charging the battery to full took around 90 minutes using a 7kW Rolec home charger. This will give you around 20 mile of pure electric driving. When the battery runs out the petrol engine steps seamlessly in.

Prices start from £33,250, with our SE L coming in at £36,035. The 187bhp 2.0 TSI DSG petrol SE L costs £32,305 which is £4,000 less, but company car tax rules make the iV the cheapest model to run.

CC&V RATING: N N N N N

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

CV NEWS: NISSAN NV 250

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

NV250 offers a Tardis conundrum Global facilities management company Atalian Servest is among the first to take delivery of a fleet of Nissan’s new NV250 compact vans – with 100 vehicles ready to be used across its business.

Atalian Servest offers fully outsourced, integrated solutions for companies and the new NV250 vans will play a key role. They will be used across its wide range of services include catering, cleaning, technical services, projects and security.

The deal is part of Atalian Servest’s fleet renewal programme and the NV250 was the obvious choice

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

because of its size, price and low running costs.

The NV250 is available with a payload of up to 800kg and comes in two body lengths. With up to 4.6m3 of cargo capacity or room for up to three adults, its interior is big while remaining small on the outside. Even the smaller body length offers 3.5m3 of cargo space, up to 650kg in weight.

Atalian Servest has opted for the longwheelbase panel van.

On board, it benefits from Nissan’s Intelligent

Mobility technologies, including Hill Start Assist and the manufacturer’s Extended Grip switchable traction control system.

Equipped with an advanced 1.5-litre diesel engine, the NV250 is proven to reduce overall running costs thanks to optimised fuel efficiency.

Power output ranges from 80, 95 and 115HP, offering 200, 230 and 260 Nm of torque respectively. CO2 emissions range from 116-125, 116-131 and 121-131 g/km.

Glen Napper, Head of Procurement for the UK & Ireland at Atalian Servest, said: “The Nissan LCV range is an excellent fit for Atalian Servest and these particular vehicles offer great versatility. They are a welcome addition to our fleet and complement a batch of fully electric Nissan e-NV200 vehicles delivered previously.”

Karen Reid, Nissan’s corporate sales manager for Scotland and the north of England, added: “This is a great indication of the popularity we can expect to see from NV250, and it’s no surprise with its great combination of space, technology and Nissan’s five-year warranty.

“It also performs exceptionally well against its competitors in terms of total cost of ownership – this is helped by its excellent residual values plus low service, maintenance and repair costs.”

To find out more about the NV250 or book a test drive, visit www.nissan.co.uk/ vehicles/new-vehicles/nv250

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 35

ON TEST: CITROEN ë-DISPATCH

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ë-Dispatch: The electric van with loads of appeal Citroën has unveiled a new 100% electric compact van, the ë-Dispatch – part of the manufacturer’s “electrification for all” offensive which will result in the launch of six further electrified models during 2020.

The new 100% electric version of Dispatch offers fleet and business users practical solutions to the challenges of mobility in urban environments – and in rural areas too thanks to the impressive operating range, which is sufficient for most journeys. ë-Dispatch makes it possible for all users to conduct their business in a new way, directly participating in energy transition.

With no compromise in terms of performance and features – which have made Dispatch such a success – ë-Dispatch brings a new dimension in terms of comfort and greater peace-of-mind to all tradespeople: The operating range suitable for most daily tasks, with 143 miles on the WLTP cycle with a 50 kWh battery and 205 miles on the WLTP cycle with a 75 kWh battery.

It is also more comfortable – with a freedom from vibration and noise, and remarkably smooth handling; and its is eminently drivable.

Crucially for many urban operators, it gives owners freedom to access restricted low emission CO2 zones.

All in all it builds a package that is less stress to own and drive – but without any compromise of load capacity, which remains unchanged on the combustion engine versions.

Citroën expects to position ë-Dispatch at the top of the BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) market, with an offering that is highly adapted to the needs of fleet and business LCV customers. Totally integrated into the Dispatch range, ë-Dispatch is only visually different on the outside due to the charging port positioned on the left-hand front wing. Plus a blank section in the grille at the front, and a new “ë” badge fitted to the right of the grille and again on the left-hand rear door.

Built on the Groupe PSA EMP2 multi-energy platform, this electric version of Dispatch is offered with two battery powertrains – giving two levels of vehicle range – allowing every operator to select the one that best suits their needs and budget: • 143 miles on the WLTP cycle (available with XS and M body styles) fitted with a 50 kWh battery, made up of 18 separate modules.

• 205 miles on the WLTP cycle (available with M and XL body styles) fitted with a 75 kWh battery, made up of 27 individual modules.

New ë-Dispatch offers all the advantages of the architecture from the existing internal combustion engine (ICE) versions. This means compact exterior dimensions, while offering 36 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

modularity, ergonomics, interior space, storage space and optimised loading capacity, making it an ideal work tool. ë-Dispatch is available in three lengths, including the XS model at 4.60m – designed for easier access to urban centres and for unfettered parking. This length, coupled with a volume of up to 5.1m3, makes for an extremely compact van. ë-Dispatch is just 1.90m tall, which means it can go where many competitors cannot, such as underground car parks and shopping centres, etc, but with payloads of up to 1,275kg it has the versatility you need.

On the charge The charging port is on the left-hand front wing on ë-Dispatch and charging operates

The operating range is suitable for most daily tasks, with 143 miles on the WLTP cycle from the 50kWh battery and 205 miles from the version with the 75kWh battery... when in Park mode. There are three charging modes available: Home charging, requiring a mode 2 cable (for charging at home, at a place of work or in a car park). Compatible with a standard domestic socket (cable available as an accessory).

Private or public accelerated charging, needing a ‘Wallbox’ at home and a mode 3 cable. 32A cable (supplied as standard with the vehicle). In this format it charges from 0 to 100% in less than 8 hours (7.4 kW Wallbox).

Super-fast charging at a mode 4 public charging point (cable incorporated into charger).Up to 100 kW. Can charge a 50 kWh battery to 80% in 30 minutes and a 75 kWh battery to 80% in 45 minutes.

The warranty period for the battery is eight

years or 100,000 miles (up to 70% battery capacity).

There are three options available: The lead-in X version, incorporating essential items such as an RD6 MP3 Bluetooth® Radio, electric and heated mirrors, and an electric parking brake.

The Enterprise version – the most flexible model at the heart of the range – includes all equipment from the X version, with the addition of rear parking sensors, air-conditioning, alarm, automatic lights and wipers, 7-inch colour touchscreen with Apple CarPlay™/Android Auto, and the brand’s Moduwork® dual passenger bench with fold-up outer seat.

The Driver version, made for mile-eaters, includes all equipment of the Enterprise version, plus additional front parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, a Visio Park 180° rear parking camera, 17-inch ‘Curve’ alloy wheels, Citroën Connect Navigation with voice recognition, and a Safety Pack (lane departure warning, speed limit recognition, intelligent speed adaptation, driver attention alert, smart beam headlights and Active Safety Brake).

There’s no compromise on driver amenities, such as storage facility within the cabin. This is cleverly positioned all around the cabin, so that everything is in its place and there is no need to worry.

A few examples: there is a net on the console with electric parking-brake (between the driver’s and passenger’s seats), the lower glovebox is fitted with a jack-plug and 12V sockets, there is a large storage bin under the passenger’s bench-seat and there are cup-holders on the dashboard. Overall, ë-Dispatch has nearly 100 litres of storage.

On the road comfort is a priority, with variable-stiffness springs and load-dependent variable shock absorbers to dampen bumps and potholes. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

CV NEWS: VOLKSWAGEN ABT eTRANSPORTER

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Model offers up to 82 miles range with no compromise on cargo area ABT eTransporter 6.1 offers zero-emissions Prices for Volkswagen ABT eTransporter 6.1 start from £42,060 (exc. VAT) The zero-emission ABT eTransporter 6.1 is Volkswagen’s first all-electric van and one that heralds the transformation of its CV offer to business fleets.

Developed in collaboration with Premium Partner ABT e-Line, the ABT eTransporter 6.1 starts fromfrom £42,060 (exc. VAT) and combines quiet and smooth driving, instant torque, fast charging and high load capacity for the ultimate zero-emissions urban logistics van. The model offers an all-electric range of up to 82 miles with a cargo space of 6.7m3.

Flexible charging options allow for 80 per cent charge in just 45 minutes.

Performance and efficiency The ABT eTransporter 6.1 delivers a maximum power output of 110PS (83kW), with a 0-62mph time of just 17.4 seconds. The technically-advanced and lightweight electric motor provides smooth and quiet driving, low maintenance requirements and instant maximum torque. This is connected to the battery via the power electronics that supply energy to both the on-board electronics and the electric motor.

The compact battery is fitted underneath the load area to avoid compromising the cargo area of 6.7m3 and payload of up to 1,001kg.

Total range is up to 82 miles.

The ABT eTransporter 6.1 is also fitted with regenerative braking, switching the drive motor to generator operation to recover energy lost when braking. The resulting current is fed back into the battery and stored for later use.

The driver is able to see the battery status from the instrument cluster, where the usual rev counter dial has been replaced with a power meter. When the needle is in the green, the battery is being charged by recuperating energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. The blue area denotes the optimum speeds and acceleration for the most economical driving, while the charge level indicator states the current charge in the battery.

The ABT eTransporter 6.1 features a modified dual clutch transmission DSG, combining the conventional system with the requirements of an electric drive to develop sufficient power in any driving situation. When Drive (‘D’) is selected, the motor will deliver 75% power to maximise range, with the kickdown function on the gear shift providing 100% power and torque, maximising performance.

40 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

Smooth drive, great torque as VW’s first all-electric Transporter heralds a new CV era Charging The Combined Charging System (CCS) socket on the new ABT eTransporter 6.1 provides a flexible charging solution, combining the ability to charge via both AC and DC. This means you can use any device that has either a CCS (DC charging) or Type 2 (AC charging) plug type. A Type 2 charging cable is included with the vehicle as standard.

Rapid charging using a DC charger is the fastest way to charge your electric van. The new ABT eTransporter 6.1 supports up to 50kW DC charging using a CCS connector, which means the vehicle’s lithium-ion battery can achieve a charging state of 80 per cent within approximately 45 minutes. This is ideal for vans working a busy shift pattern which need to be on the road and working.

The new eTransporter can support AC charging up to 7.2kW via a wallbox, which will charge the lithium-ion battery in approximately five and a half hours.

Technology The ABT eTransporter 6.1 is equipped as standard with a DAB+ radio system with 6.5-inch touchscreen and four loudspeakers, SD card slot, Bluetooth® handsfree and two USB interfaces (type-C) in the dashboard.

Volkswagen AppConnect, which allows you to bring smartphone apps onto your infotainment system’s touchscreen, is also a standard feature alongside a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including Front Assist with City Emergency Braking System, rear parking sensors and Crosswind Assist.

Pricing and running costs Pricing for the ABT eTransporter 6.1 Panel van starts from £42,060 (exc. VAT) with the Advance trim from £45,360 (exc. VAT). The kombi crew van and kombi crew van Advance are priced from £46,375 (exc. VAT) and £49,985 (exc. VAT), respectively.

Advance trim adds design, comfort and safety options, including 17” alloy wheels, electrically foldable door mirrors, automatic LED headlights, rain sensing windscreen wipers, heated windshield, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and front and rear parking sensors.

With its zero-emission status, all variants of the ABT eTransporter 6.1 are exempt from road tax (VED) and can access London ULEZ and Clean Air Zones. www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: eDUCATO

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Electric Ducato!

• New e-Ducato priced from £47,675 exc VAT (after Plug-in Van Grant) • Zero tailpipe emissions • Range of battery options to provide driving range of between 99-192 miles • Fully charge with fast charger in little over 2 hours Kickstarting the Fiat brand’s foray into 100% electric vehicles is the e-Ducato large LCV, which offers a battery range from 99-192 miles (WLTP City*), depending on the variant. It is Congestion Charge and ULEZ-exempt, making it the perfect tool for businesses in both urban and suburban environments.

There are two battery sizes available – 47kWh or 79kWh. The 47kWh battery, alongside a 90kW motor, provides a range of up to 120 miles (WLTP City*), a maximum power of 90kW (equivalent to 122hp) and maximum torque of 280Nm at 12,000rpm. e-Ducato receives a top speed of 62mph and takes under six seconds to go from 0-30mph. Its impressive charging time of zero to fully charged takes just 2 hours and 25 minutes, enabling businesses to recharge and get back on the road in the quickest time possible. The

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

47kWh battery is available with AC or DC charging capability.

The 79kWh battery is fused to the same 90kW motor and receives the same power and torque outputs as the 47kWh battery, however provides a longer range of up to 192 miles. e-Ducato with the 79kWh battery takes just four hours to charge from 0-100% and is also available with AC or DC charging capability.

These figures still do not impede on the versatility of e-Ducato: it receives a best-inclass payload of up to 1,950kg and maintains the same best-in-class volumes as ICE Ducato of between 10m3 and 17m3.

Range is maximised in e-Ducato through its regenerative braking system, with the van storing energy as it is driven downhill. This ensures range isn’t wasted and is stored for when needed most.

The e-Ducato also provides the driver with three driving mode options: • Normal which gives optimal balance between performance and economy; • Eco for an increase in the available range by managing acceleration response in order to reduce energy consumption and deactivation of air conditioning; and • Power mode for facing full-load missions.

A fourth, ‘Turtle mode’, is activated when battery power reaches near-to 0% level. The vehicle alerts the user and activates a specific driving mode with strongly reduced performance to extend the remaining range e-Ducato is available in two trim levels – standard and eTecnico – and three main configurations – goods van, chassis cab and passenger van.

Key to any van is its versatile loading arrangements, and here the e-Ducato offers a host of options in keeping with the range’s reputation for being a van for all reasons.

Continued on page 42

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 41

CV NEWS: e-DUCATO

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Electric Ducato!

Continued from page 41 There are two heights (2569mm, 2814mm), three lengths (5413mm, 5998mm, 6363mm) and three wheelbase sizes (3450mm, 4035mm, 4035XLmm).

The chassis cab is also offered with a choice of three lengths (5358mm, 5708mm, 5943mm) and four wheelbase sizes (3450mm, 3800mm, 4035mm, 4035XLmm), while the passenger can be ordered in one size specification seating between five and nine passengers. Every configuration is available with the choice of either the 47kWh or 79kWh battery.

Trim levels are excellent for an LCV. Standard trim provides a 5-inch touchscreen with DAB Radio and Bluetooth®, automatic climate control, tablet holder, USB charging port, fixed full width steel bulkhead, electric heated mirrors and convertors plug.

Therre is also LED lighting in the load area, twin leaf rear suspension, lane departure warning system, advanced emergency braking, Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), High Beam Recognition (HBR), Rain & Dusk Sensors (RDS), Electronic stability control (ESC) and driver’s air bag.

Exclusively for E-Ducato, there is also both 7kW (with 47kWh) and 11kW (with 79kWh) on-board chargers as well as a mode 3

42 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

charging cable. E-Ducato has been engineered to be capable of charging at both 22kW and 50kW DC. Over and above this specification, eTecnico receives seven-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and SatNav, rear parking camera with reverse parking sensors, blind spot and rear cross path detection, embroidered headrests, front fog lights, heated electrically folding door mirrors, LED daytime running lights, leather steering wheel and chrome air vent surrounds.

Every E-Ducato receives a 12 month subscription to Mopar Connect. This smartphone application provides help 24 hours a day via its crash assistance service.

Mopar Connect Theft Assistance is able to

“Its impressive charging time of zero to fully charged takes just 2 hours and 25 minutes, enabling businesses to recharge and get back on the road in the quickest time possible...”

detect unauthorised towing or tampering of the device and can receive assistance from a my:Assistant operator.

After having reported the theft, the operators will provide the GPS co-ordinates and will immobilise the engine when the vehicle stops to facilitate recovery. Roadside Assistance is also available via Mopar Connect.

Richard Chamberlain, head of Fiat Professional in the UK, said: “Ducato will be 40 years old next year but its success shows no signs of slowing down.

“Everyone at Fiat Professional is so proud of Ducato and what it continues to achieve, particularly at this challenging time when it’s playing such an active role with our emergency services, local authorities and logistics companies operating on the frontline.”

He added: “We are all incredibly excited about the arrival of the new E-Ducato in showrooms later this year, because we know what a brilliant vehicle it is.

“It’s no exaggeration to say E-Ducato is going to be a game changer for many thousands of our customers looking for an electric van that’s more than a match for real-world jobs whilst also making a positive step towards reducing their impact on the environment.”

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Contact your local HTC dealer today HTC Belvedere 020 8319 7812 078 7949 5347 vansales@htc-uk.com Crabtree Manorway, Belvedere, Kent, DA17 6BT

HTC Croydon 020 8683 6205 075 8499 3063 vansales@htc-uk.com 93 Beddington Lane, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 4TD

HTC Hemel Hempstead 0144 283 5682 0776 871 1028 vansales@htc-uk.com Boundary Way, Maylands Industrial Estate, Hertfordshire, HP2 7Y

HTC Reading Van Sales Specialist 0118 930 0932 0776 786 5263 vansales@htc-uk.com Station Road, Theale, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 4AG

Trafford Van Centre Mark Redmond 0161 8773 445 0786 7201 847 vansales@htc-uk.com Unit 5 Circle South, Wharfside Way, Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1NF

Trafford Van Centre Andy Thomas 0161 8773 445 0777 0922 6699 vansales@htc-uk.com Unit 5 Circle South, Wharfside Way, Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1NF

HTC Oxford 0186 584 4115 0776 786 5263 vansales@htc-uk.com 16 Chancerygate Business Centre, Langford Lane, Kidlington, OX5 1FQ

Fuel economy and CO2 results for the Fiat Professional E-Ducato. Mpg (l/100km): Not applicable. CO2 emissions: 0g/km. Electric range* 137 to 224 miles. These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The E-Ducato is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. There is a new test for fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures. The electric range shown was achieved using the new test procedure. Figures shown are for comparability purposes. Only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. *The values indicated for vehicle range are measured by the manufacturer on pre-approval tests, and may be subject to modification depending upon the definitive homologation. Values may not reflect real-life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

ON TEST: VAUXHALL MOVANO

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Movano capable of grabbing a piece of the CV action Upgrades have made the Movano a real contender in what is an ultra competitive sector, says Andrew Walker

The UK large van sector is incredibly competitive at the moment, and that situation has been made even more interesting with the introduction of an upgraded Movano, which I had the chance to test recently.

It comes in a wide number of variants, with four body lengths and three roof heights. The smallest of these is a panel van with the base powertrain specification and is priced at £27,745 (excl.VAT), with a long-wheelbase option with added height priced at £31,600 (excl. VAT). A number of models with Euro VId (Heavy Duty Cycle) engines are priced from £32,400 (excl. VAT), while the largest and most powerful of the panel van options is priced at £39,815 (excl. VAT). The new Movano is also available as a Double cab, priced from £33,250 (excl. VAT).

In panel van specification, the new Movano is available in L1H1 with every variation through to L4H3 sizing, while the Edition trim is consistent across the Movano range.

The new Movano has a modern front end with daytime running lamps incorporated into headlights, which flow into the new chrome cross bar added to the grille. Inside, the cockpit has also been updated, with a clutter-free dashboard and the touchscreen infotainment system now logically located in the centre of the dash. There’s also the option of a rear assist camera. And, with a total of 22 storage compartments and spaces, there’s plenty of room for everything and anything needed on a daily basis.

Vauxhall has revised the Movano’s powertrain line-up with all engine options Euro 6D Temp (Euro 6.2) or Heavy-duty Cycle Euro VId-specified. The 2.3-litre Turbo Diesel engine is consistent throughout the range, available with a number of power outputs.

The new engine portfolio consists exclusively of BiTurbo diesel power units. The 2.3-litre power units range from 131 PS to 180 PS and all comply with the strict Euro 6d-TEMP (light duty) or Euro V-Id (heavy duty) emissions standards. Compared with the previous generation, the engines boast five to 10 more PS and 20 to 40 Nm higher torque. The 44 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

top-of-the-line 180 PS BiTurbo develops maximum torque of 400 Nm. Load volumes range from 7.8m3 to 17m3 and gross weights of 2,800kg to 4,500kg. Vauxhall offers a second row of four seats in the double-cab models which are available on L2H2 and L3H2 bodies.

The driver can get comfortable with the six-way adjustable driver’s seat which includes an armrest. All models offer steering columnmounted audio controls, electric windows, aux in with USB interface. For those who use their van as a mobile office there is Bluetooth connectivity which I tried, connected easily and thanks to the steel bulkhead, I could actually hold a conversation while driving. The infotainment screen is easy to use, but it’s a little small in such a large van and a bit of a reach when your driving.

The model tested was the 2.3 CDTi (150PS) Turbo and it’s a great around town. Add in light steering, taut gear changes and a high driving

position and you are good to go in any urban environment.

The three-seat cab was comfortable and the switches, seat covers and plastics are well put together and look built to last. On the motorway the engine is fantastic, with loads of power for overtaking. Cruise control is helpful on the motorway, taking the pain put of a long trip. It’s easy to engage the cruise and it works well.

Despite its size, though, it’s an easy, large van to drive full stop and is surprisingly agile around town.

Claimed fuel economy is 47.8mpg on the combined cycle. We achieved 40.2mpg in a week in the Movano, driving alone and unladen, so you can make up your own mind about this.

We thought this was actually pretty good for a large van in this category and certainly no better or worse than the diesel competition.

CO2 emissions are 156g/km. List price for our test van was £32,710 + VAT. Finally, remember the aftersales: there are plenty of Vauxhall Heavy Van Centres to look after your after sales needs and servicing.

VERDICT Huge improvements everywhere: fuel economy, more tech and better safety features. Better range of engines and load capacities, and well priced, starting from £27, 745 ex VAT CC&V RATING: NNNN www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: eDELIVER 3

Maxus shows it can deliver Andrew Walker Thanks to Covid-19 you may have missed the news that LDV changed its name in April, to Maxus. Maxus is owned by the Chinese SAIC corporation and is distributed in Europe by the Harris Group in Ireland. While Maxus is still making diesel vans – it recently launched a new large panel van, the Deliver 9 – it is in the electric van sector that it’s ahead of the game.

First announced at the 2019 CV Show, the Maxus eDeliver 3 is the brand’s all-new mediumsized electric van. Where the Chinese came late to the combustion engine party, they were pretty much the first with electric powertrains, as the larger LDV EV80 can testify.

From launch customers can select either a SWB or LWB version, the latter also offered as a chassis cab, paired with the more powerful battery. There are two battery packs to choose from: a 35kWh battery, offering a city range of 141 miles and a combined range of 99 miles, and the larger 55kWh battery, which increases the city range to 213 miles and the combined to 151 miles. A rapid 45-minute DC charge with both batteries will top up your battery to 80 per cent of range, while the most common Type 2 AC charger with the 35kWh battery will take six

46 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

hours to the same level. On the 55kWh battery this increases to 8 hours.

Payload is competitive, ranging from 865kg right up to 1202kg, depending on the battery pack and wheelbase specified. The SWB van measures 4.55m, with a 4.8m cubed capacity, while the LWB version is 5.15 m in length, with a 6.3m cubed capacity. The maximum cargo space height is 1330mm, maximum width is

1665mm and it measures 1220mm between the wheel arches. The cargo length is 2180mm in the SWB van and 2770mm in the LWB. The access at the rear, comes courtesy of a 60:40 split doors, which are 1.25m high and 1.25m wide. The side door is 710mm wide due to bulkhead intrusion and 1230mm high.

Standard equipment includes arm rests, air-con, SatNav, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto,

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

twin USBs, Bluetooth, a driver’s airbag, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors and cruise control.

While the exterior of eDeliver 3 bears an uncanny resemblance to the Nissan e-NV200, inside it’s more modern than the Nissan, with the dash-located touchscreen the highlight. The cabin build quality is okay, with some decent plastic and finishes and on the steering wheel, but it’s not as good as the quality you’ll find in the larger Maxus diesel Deliver 9. In comparison, it feels more modern inside than the interiors of the Nissan e-NV200 or Renault Kangoo, which are both beginning to show their age.

In the cabin you’ll find two seats, a flatbottomed steering wheel and a drive mode selector dial which frees up cabin space; there’s also plenty of useful storage.

Courtesy of Chadderton Motor Company, our local Maxus dealer, we tried the SWB 35kWh version of the eDeliver 3. It is easy to drive and offered up decent speed when pushed, hitting 60mph in about eight seconds.

Top speed is 75 mph.

Utilising the regeneration and the ECO button, we made our way around Manchester driving approximately 30 miles, but only using 20 miles of range, which was good. ECO means you’re top speed is limited to around 65mph, but if you switch it off, swifter progress can be made. The regeneration switch can be set to low, medium or high, dependent on what

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

type of driving you are doing. Motorway would be low, urban medium and city high regeneration.

On the motorway at speed, the van did feel a little front heavy, especially when steering from lane to lane and when you’re in traffic. There’s also some battery noise when you slow down, which takes a bit of getting used to. The van panels are not the stiffest and the rear doors don’t close with as much of a thud as we’d like.

These are our only criticisms, however. Overall, the ride is good, it generally handles well and the cabin is quiet. The onboard tech is easy to use and works well and it’s very well equipped.

If you’re still not sure about electric vans for your business because of range, it’s worth noting that the eDeliver 3 with the larger battery offers the best range of any electric van. It’s also competitively priced, with an entry level

cost of £36,000 including vat, before the OLEV grant of £8000 is taken into account.

Competition comes from the smaller Nissan e-NV200, which offers a payload of 705kg and a range of 124 miles, or the larger PSA group’s Citroen e-Dispatch, Vauxhall Vivaro-e and Peugeot e-Expert, which have payloads from 1262kgs and a range of 143 miles on the WLTP cycle. Price-wise, the Nissan e-NV200 starts at £31,468 and the Citroen e-Dispatch at £38,099 inc vat and before the OLEV grant.

With a name change and two new electric vans – the larger eDeliver 9 arrives shortly – the future looks bright for Maxus as it aims high in Europe. With a decent spread of UK dealers, there’s also a van centre located near you. If you haven’t tried an electric van yet, there’s no excuse not to pop in and try one.

VERDICT This is the first electric Maxus you’ll be considering, with another, the larger eDeliver 9, hot on its heels CC&V RATING: NNNN

Company Car & Van | December 2020 | 47

ON TEST: MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

A few days behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter highlights just why it’s been at the top for so long, says Andrew Walker Mercedes Benz launched the third generation of its Sprinter in2018, with evolution the watchword rather than revolution.

It now contains the brand’s Pro Connect advanced technology, accessed from a new centrally located 10.25” touchscreen. The interior features a new touch-capable multifunction steering wheel, natural voice control, a clearly laid-out uncluttered instrument panel, wireless charging for smartphones and some features from the Mercedes-Benz car range, such as the air-vents. It all gives Sprinter the most car-like interior of any van to date.

The top of the dash features three closing storage cubby holes, the larger central one holding the USB connection. Further storage comes in the form of door pockets large enough to hold a couple of bottles, two storage spaces underneath the dashboard controls, shelving above both driver and passenger and two smaller spaces under the central air-vents.

There’s a quality finish to the dash and the neat and tidy matt black interior. The lack of switches on the dash is a little disconcerting.

The touchscreen and functions therein do take a little while to get used to, but it’s not as complicated as most modern cars. Once you’ve spent some time behind the wheel everything clicks into place, with the toggle heating controls, for example, becoming second nature to adjust. Everything you need is within easy reach from the driver’s seat as well.

From the outside it’s still unmistakably a Sprinter. Subtle updates include slender headlights, with LED bulbs on higher spec vans, a more upright windscreen, blistered wheel arches and a softer profile.

Both the inside and outside may be new but the engine range is the same as on the previous model. For the first time the Sprinter is offered with front wheel drive, powered by a 2.1-litre four-cylinder unit offered in three power outputs; 114hp, 143hp and 177hp, with the most powerful version exclusively reserved for the camper van.

Rear wheel drive also features on the 2.1 litre unit and offers power outputs of 114hp, 143hp or 163hp. And, if you need one, a 3.0-litre V6 diesel FWD version is now offered for the first time. As before, the Sprinter AWD is also available with four-wheel drive and a raised ride height to give it some extra off-road ability.

As standard, the Sprinter gets a six-speed manual gearbox, while the rear-drive model has the option of a 7Gtronic auto. The FWD mode also features a new nine-speed torque converter auto for improved efficiency and performance. If you’re a buyer looking to reduce emissions, especially for last-mile 48 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

The little extras keep latest Sprinter ahead of the competition deliveries in urban areas, the all-electric Mercedes eSprinter is also an option.

If you’re looking for your large panel van to be just right for you, the latest Sprinter offers 1,700 variants, be it panel van, Tourer, dropside, chassis, bus or tractor head.

Maximum load capacity is 17m3 and up to 5.5 tonnes. The addition of FWD increases payload by 50 kg and this model is also available with a 9-speed auto transmission. FWD also offers an 80 mm lower loading sill to make loading/ unloading and access/exit more convenient.

The panel van comes in a variety of sizes, with four wheelbases and six body styles. The FWD version comes in two wheelbases (3,259mm or 3,924mm) and is offered in panel van, chassis cab or tractor head guises, the latter being designed for camper van conversion.

Go for the Sprinter RWD and you have a choice of three wheelbases in either panel van, chassis cab, crew cab or passenger carrying Tourer bodies, while the RWD version also offers a double-wheel option for loads up to 5.5 tonnes.

The panel van has a load area that features a large, flat, plastic-trimmed floor, plus a plywood lining, which is now standard across the range.

The box wheel arches have been strengthened and are able to carry as much weight as the load floor itself, while standard and high-roof variants are also offered.

In terms of electronics, the Sprinter now comes with electric power steering, so it’s able to make use of Mercedes’s latest safety systems from its car range.

Continued on page 50 www.companycarandvan.co.uk

ON TEST: MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER

www.companycarandvan.co.uk

Gold medal for third Sprinter Continued from page 48 Distronic adaptive cruise control is also available. This brings the Sprinter to a complete stop before driving off again and it can cope with congested driving. Lane keep assist is on offer too, while the active system can automatically brake the vehicle if it senses the Sprinter is drifting across road lanes.

Depending on body type, wheelbase, roof height, drive configuration and engine variant, the fuel consumption figures vary between 41.5 and 29.1 mpg, with CO2 emissions ranging from 178 and 253 g/km. Nitrogen oxides after combustion falls by over 80 per cent and the AdBlue tank capacity has increased to 22 litres CC&V had the opportunity to drive a FWD manual MWB and RWD auto LWB, versions of the Sprinter.

The first thing that strikes you about the latest Sprinter is just how easy it is to drive.

Much like the latest Crafter and MAN TGE, it’s incredibly car-like in movement and feel. The speed sensitive electric power steering is light and well balanced and on the motorway it cruises nicely. In town, our 114hp test model lacked a bit of poke, just doing enough to keep up with traffic as we headed out on to the motorway, with two passengers and a load of bagged concrete onboard. In and around Manchester it coped well with rush-hour traffic and the light clutch was a real bonus.

From a connectivity point of view, Mercedes Pro Connect is a very useful tool for fleet managers and delivery drivers alike. It includes

the likes of Vehicle Supervision, Vehicle Operations, Fleet Communication, Maintenance Management, Accident Management and a Digital Driver’s Log. There’s also a high-speed internet connection in the Sprinter, which is available for the connectivity services of Mercedes Pro, but can also act as a hotspot for separate mobile devices. For the first three years, the Mercedes Pro service ‘Live Traffic’ is available for free with the navigation system.

The infotainment system offered includes an AM/FM radio, with my favourite DAB stations found using the built-in TuneIn internet radio App. Mercedes SatNav was straightforward to set up and worked well, although as with many counterparts, if you rely solely on it, you will need to keep your wits about you as it has a tendency, visually anyway, to be a little slow to point out the next turn, leaving you unsure as to which right hander you really should be going down.

The driver’s seat and its adjustment options were exemplary. Fore and aft, up and down are all on offer and it was easy to get comfortable behind the wheel. There’s space for three up front and the steel bulkhead keeps the cab quiet, a bonus if utilising hands-free Bluetooth.

The steering wheel also features buttons to access the infotainment system, the hands-free Bluetooth phone connectivity, the cruise control and vehicle information. Adjusting the air con to your liking is achieved by toggling the switches up and down. These are located to the left and right hand side of the central dash underneath the touchscreen. There’s also a push-button starter, standard across the range, with keyless entry and exit. The electronic

handbrake is just below the steering wheel. All in all, clutter-free and Scandi-like in design.

The following day we got behind the wheel of the RWD LWB auto version. This was equally as impressive to pilot as the smaller manual. Stop-start traffic proved no problem with the auto box, in which the seven gears were well spaced.

We spent much of our journey in the RWD Sprinter stuck in traffic, negotiating the type of driving roads that delivery drivers encounter daily. We looped around the M60 but also got slowed down there as well. In comparison with the previous model, from a driver’s perspective, this latest Sprinter does everything better than its predecessor and in most cases better than the competition, too.

The Sprinter is offered as a panel or crew cab, with four lengths, three heights and three trims: Pure, Progressive and Premium. Prices start from £26,284 for a Pure 214 L1 H1 FWD, moving on through entry level Progressive, a 314 L1 H1 FWD and up to entry level Premium, a 314 L1 H1 FWD. These prices make it competitive against the Volkswagen Crafter and the MAN TGE, it’s natural rivals.

VERDICT The Sprinter does everything you’d want a large panel van to do. There’s plenty of choices of engines, transmissions and trim levels, and it’s full of quality fittings. Not cheap but a real investment that’s top of the class.

CC&V RATING: NNNNN

50 | December 2020 | Company Car & Van

www.companycarandvan.co.uk