Ignition December 2012

Ignition Issue 7 Dec 2012

Car views and news by FleetNews

FIRST DRIVE: TOYOTA AURIS HYBRID EXCEL

Toyota targets best-in-class costs Hybrid winning benefit-in-kind tax battle

GO ●

GO GO Hyundai and Kia ● Defleeted cars ● gain 10% in a year win top 10 places

Values remain strong despite seasonal dip in auction prices

Korean carmakers become big players in fleet

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F IR S T DRI V E

TAX CHANGES TO HELP DRIVE AURIS HYBRID SUCCESS Toyota expects the Budget statement changes to steer more fleets towards its hybrid

TOYOTA AURIS NEED TO KNOW

n Improved looks, upgraded comfort n Class-leading CO2 emissions n Better equipped, more economical n £615 cheaper than outgoing model

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HYBRID EXCEL

By Maurice Glover ritain’s best-selling compact hybrid car is poised to win greater showroom success in future – thanks to a little help from the taxman.

Executives at Toyota think the tighter company car tax regime announced in the last Budget statement will prompt higher demand for the next-generation petrol-electric Auris as fleets look for increasingly cost effective transport solutions.

“We are traditionally conservative when it comes to predicting sales, but cutting the first year capital allowance threshold from 110g/km of CO2 to 95g/km in April should have a big impact on take-up of the Auris Hybrid," Toyota GB vehicle marketing general manager Chris Hayes told Fleet News.

“The more stringent regime promises to play a significant role in increasing the popularity of this car and we’re expecting to sell around 3,300 to fleets next year, rising to around 5,600 in 2015.

“Even though our new line-up includes a vastly improved diesel version, the hybrid is the better proposition because it has reduced servicing and maintenance costs as well as steering drivers clear of the 3% diesel surcharge.”

Dramatically better looking and with a higher-grade finish, the new model gets improved aerodynamics from a 55mm reduction in height.

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Comfort has been improved in the Auris

Luggage capacity is no longer compromised And it's also kinder on the pocket at £615 cheaper than its predecessor.

Detail changes to the drive system control logic have improved driving performance, although the continuously variable transmission still sends the 1.8-litre engine spinning at a seemingly excessive rate when acceleration is needed on motorway inclines.

For the most part, however, the hybrid hatchback has a more subdued and refined demeanour in its latest guise, which features better detailing, improved comfort and thicker sound deadening material.

Relocating the hybrid battery pack from the boot to beneath the rear seat has removed a major criticism. Luggage capacity is no longer compromised and the 360-litre volume now matches that of conventional versions.

Along with suspension revisions, the change has also benefited handling by lowering the centre of gravity to improve stability at speed and reduce body roll during cornering, although the car still trails the class leaders in overall handling alacrity.

With the Auris, Toyota GB is launching a fresh grade structure – Active, Icon, Sport and Excel. The mid-range Icon trim is expected to be most popular with fleets and includes alloy wheels, six-speaker DAB audio, a multimedia control screen, rear parking camera, push-button start, fog lamps and power-operated windows all round.

Intelligent park assist gadgetry is included on the Excel, along with cruise control, dual-zone air conditioning, automatic wipers and headlights, heated front seats and power-fold door mirrors.

COSTS P11D price £21,690 BIK tax band 10% Annual BIK tax (20%) £433.80 Class 1A NIC £299 Annual VED £0 RV (4yr/80k) £5,425/25% Fuel cost (ppm) 8.4 Running cost (4yr/80k) 32.28

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,798 Bhp/rpm 98/5,200 (134bhp comb) CO2 91g/km Fuel economy 72.4mpg Max speed 112 0-62mph 10.0secs

To compare running costs, click here

T E S T ED T HIS MON T H

BMW Alpina D5

Simon Harris The diesel-engined D5 is based on the BMW 5 Series but is more rewarding and more potent.

Inside, bespoke Alpina instruments and other detailing give the D5 a more exclusive feel than a 5 Series, while the extra performance is instantly noticeable thanks to the eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Although there is only one UK distributor for Alpina in the UK – Sytner in Nottingham – Alpina provides technical information and replacement parts to the BMW network.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

VW Up Move 1.0 ASG 5dr

Debbie Wood The Up is a fun, quirky and stylish small car.

Choosing the ASG could improve efficiency and fuel consumption, but is it worth choosing in pursuit of lower emissions?

Small cars are often a little bland and utilitarian, but the Up is fun, the interior is cheerful and quirky with refined console controls and dials.

The ASG’s fuel economy is 1.4mpg better than the manual version at 64.2mpg while CO2 falls 3g/km to 103g/km. Over 10,000 miles, this equates to a fuel saving of just £22.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Vauxhall Adam Slam 1.4 Ecoflex

Maurice Glover Opel-Vauxhall is confident that the funky Adam city cars will open the door to growth across Europe.

The Adam takes pole position when it come to personalisation: coloured wheel clips, printed roofliners, backlit dash panels, 12 colours with three contrasting roof paints, 20 wheel designs, 15 seat trims and ambient lighting in eight shades.

Surprisingly, start-stop is a £295 option but the extra £275 for a new on-board infotainment system will be seen by many as a bargain.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

FIRST DRIVE

TESTED THIS MONTH

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OUR FLEET

Seat Leon 1.6TDi SE

DRIVER PENALTIES

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DEFLEETING

COMING SOON

Alisdair Suttie Looks-wise, the new Leon takes its lead from the recently-facelifted Ibiza. However, the Leon’s rear door handles are now on the door itself rather than hidden in the rear of the window frame.

Adding to the Leon’s fleet focus are a range of engines that offer sub-120g/km CO2 emissions, with the exception of the 177bhp 1.8-litre petrol engine.

In S and SE trims, the Leon comes with torsion beam rear suspension, which offers a comfortable ride and composed handling.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Mercedes-Benz ML250 BlueTec

Debbie Wood The third-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class has the six-cylinder diesel engine and highperformance petrol engine you’d expect, but when it launched in April the entry-level model came with a four-cylinder engine.

The M-Class has the subtle upmarket feel of most current Mercedes-Benz models.

The Sport comes with 19-inch AMG five-spoke alloy wheels standard along with stop/start, active park assist, heated door mirrors, privacy glass and roof rails.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Hyundai i30 Tourer 1.6 CRDi Active

Andrew Ryan The 1.6 CRDi Active Blue Drive is currently the most efficient i30 Tourer available, with CO2 of 110g/km and fuel consumption of 67.3mpg on the combined cycle.

It drives well, providing a smooth and comfortable ride, while refinement is generally good, although tyre noise can be intrusive on some surfaces.

At its widest point, the boot measures a useful 1.37m, while under the carpeted floor are six useful storage compartments of various shapes and sizes.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

F L EE T S A L E S F IGURE S

Sales continue to edge up

Dramatic increases for Hyundai and Kia lift Korean brands into the top 10

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By Jay Nagley, Redspy Automotive nce again the market showed a modest rise last month of 3.61% with the year-todate figure for 2012 up 0.69%.

Given the much publicised diversion of production from the troubled European market towards the UK, this seems like quite a small increase. However, car manufacturers seem to be getting more creative in how they “encourage” registrations. We have heard stories that some are working to increase sales to “friends and family” of employees – and those sales will not count as fleet registrations.

At a manufacturer level, Ford continued its steady, if modest, progress and Vauxhall continued its erratic pattern seen throughout 2012. Fleet registrations for the month were up 22.2%, while its YTD figure was down 13.0%. Despite Vauxhall insisting it is cutting down on discounts, research by Barclays Capital found that the biggest discounter in the UK was Vauxhall and the biggest discounter in Germany was Opel, which does suggest a pattern.

Chrysler's hopes that Ypsilon (top) and Delta would transform its UK fortunes were misplaced

The elevations of Michael Cole (left) and Paul Philpott in Kia's hierarchy helped it set the pace The most dramatic sales increases came from the Koreans, with both Hyundai and Kia now in the top 10. That is a massive result for the two companies. to make it even sweeter they have overtaken Toyota, which was the company that Hyundai modelled itself on for decades. The successive elevations of both Paul Philpott and Michael Cole to unprecedented levels of seniority within Kia Europe shows how the UK operation is now setting the pace.

However, not everyone in Korea will be celebrating.

Chevrolet’s fleet sales are up by a third, both for the month and YTD, but that means Chevrolet’s total fleet sales YTD are less than the increase in Hyundai’s sales so far this year. The question of why HyundaiKia, a Korean-owned company, understands the European market better than the Korean operation of GM, a western organisation with more than 80 years' experience in Europe, would make a good management case study.

Talking of Americans, it has been another terrible year for Chrysler and Jeep. Chrysler will no doubt say that fleet sales doubled, but doubling from a base of nothing is still not very much – and this was supposed to be the year when the Ypsilon and Delta transformed the company’s UK presence. Jeep has also relaunched, and does have better products, but its belief that it is the 4x4 brand seems ever more absurd in a UK market dominated by Land Rover.

FIRST DRIVE

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DEFLEETING

COMING SOON

Nov Nov YTD fleet YTD fleet Manufacturer fleet 2012 fleet 2011 % change 2012 2011 % change

Ford 13,120 12,451 5.37% 148,069 145,286 1.92% Vauxhall 11,429 9,350 22.24% 125,224 143,882 -12.97% VW 7,295 8,260 -11.68% 96,645 101,409 -4.70% BMW 5,346 5,282 1.21% 68,837 65,127 5.70% Audi 4,381 4,601 -4.78% 64,412 61,535 4.68% Peugeot 4,080 3,906 4.45% 55,866 51,916 7.61% Nissan 4,045 4,084 -0.95% 47,963 44,428 7.96% Hyundai 3,485 1,889 84.49% 36,298 24,978 45.32% Mercedes 3,314 3,649 -9.18% 43,780 41,867 4.57% Kia 2,998 1,745 71.81% 31,909 24,990 27.69% CitroĂŤn 2,698 2,265 19.12% 30,318 28,267 7.26% Toyota 2,475 2,938 -15.76% 31,379 28,211 11.23% Renault 1,877 2,211 -15.11% 15,413 33,301 -53.72% Skoda 1,754 1,580 11.01% 21,865 20,215 8.16% Volvo 1,444 1,495 -3.41% 17,692 18,327 -3.46% Seat 1,282 1,363 -5.94% 18,242 17,946 1.65% Land Rover 1,200 691 73.66% 13,136 10,372 26.65% Mini 1,165 2,371 -50.86% 17,894 18,998 -5.81% Honda 900 1,042 -13.63% 19,745 16,159 22.19% Fiat 666 573 16.23% 12,496 9,284 34.60% Jaguar 557 421 32.30% 6,678 6,137 8.82% Smart 335 98 241.84% 2,072 1,485 39.53% Chevrolet 274 409 -33.01% 7,402 5,435 36.19% Mazda 241 356 -32.30% 6,123 11,158 -45.12% Lexus 223 492 -54.67% 3,917 3,698 5.92% Suzuki 212 204 3.92% 4,915 2,702 81.90% Alfa Romeo 142 371 -61.73% 3,157 5,586 -43.48% Mitsubishi 64 127 -49.61% 1,248 2,601 -52.02% Porsche 63 65 -3.08% 801 751 6.66% Jeep 62 49 26.53% 856 623 37.40% Chrysler 47 106 -55.66% 1,284 589 118.00% Subaru 25 47 -46.81% 750 929 -19.27% Aston Martin 19 18 5.56% 322 328 -1.83% MG 3 1 200.00% 484 95 409.47% Other 110 127 -13.39% 1,325 3,350 -60.45% Total 77,331 74,637 3.61% 958,517 951,965 0.69%

OUR F L EE T

MITSUBISHI ASX

4 1.8 D I-D 4WD

4WD with three different modes is an added bonus as winter sets in NEED TO KNOW

n 4WD lock mode offers 1.5 times the torque of 4WD auto n Winter weather not a problem in ASX n Safety key part of ASX's design

COSTS P11D price £24,895 BIK tax band 21% Annual BIK tax (20%) £1,045 Class 1A NIC £721 Annual VED £120 RV (4yr/80k) £6,056/24% Fuel cost (ppm) 11.83 AFR (ppm) 15 Running cost (4yr/80k) 39.38ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,798 Power (bhp) 114 Torque lb-ft 221 CO2 (g/km) 136 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 54.3 Max speed (mph) 117 0-62mph (sec) 10.2 Test mpg 42 Current mileage 3,522 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous ASX tests

Facing the winter with confidence with the electonically-controlled 4WD

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By Debbie Wood

e definitely got the timing right when arranging for the ASX to become my new long termer. With the weather turning colder and ice a threat, having the option of 4WD is a definite bonus.

In our ASX 4 1.8 diesel 4X4, there is an electronically-controlled 4WD system that offers three different modes: 2WD, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock. The dial sits next to the handbrake and displays which mode you are driving on the dashboard.

The 4WD Auto option offers more grip with a 50/50 split of torque transferred between the front and back wheels. In 4WD Lock mode, about 1.5 times the torque of 4WD Auto mode is transferred to the rear wheels to improve traction further.

So despite the weathermen forecasting that one of the coldest winters is coming our way, I feel quietly confident the ASX will not leave me stranded.

Safety played an important part of the design process for the ASX, as other features include Mitsubishi’s RISE technology (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution), ABS, Brake Assist, whiplash reducing seats and seven airbags as standard, helping the ASX to a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating.

Our range-topping long termer is well equipped with leather interior and a Kenwood entertainment system with built in sat-nav and reversing camera.

I have found the Kenwood entertainment system to be slightly slow when responding to instruction especially when it starts up when you first get in the car which has led to a few jumpy moments when the music finally kicks in.

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AUDI A5 SPORTBACK

DEFLEETING

COMING SOON

2.0 TDI S LINE

Service is just a matter of routine for this desirable user-chooser car

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By Simon Harris

ervice due!” was how the Audi A5 Sportback signed off as I parked at the office the other week. It had reached 18,650 miles in almost a year, and with the driver information display showing a miles/days reminder the previous week suggesting 200 miles or 375 days, I expected it wouldn’t be too long before the car went in for its first visit to the dealer for routine maintenance.

Routine was an apt description as the only additional work carried out was a replacement pollen filter – an item, we were told is normally replaced at 20,000 miles so it seemed logical to replace it now rather than allow a potential fault to occur later.

Work was carried out by Peterborough Audi, which also offers an ‘Audi Cam’ option where if non-routine work is discovered during a service, the registered keeper of the vehicle can view a short video made by the technician showing what’s wrong and what work might be required.

The cost of the service was around £340 including VAT, and should allow the A5 Sportback another 18,000 trouble-free miles, although such is the nature of variable service intervals, how the car is driven can dictate how soon a service is required. For example, mostly urban driving could result in a much earlier prompt to visit the dealer than someone who covered most of their miles on the motorway.

However, this will not be Fleet News' concern, as the A5 Sportback goes back to Audi in the New Year after just over 12 months in our custodianship.

We won’t miss the ultra-firm ride, and those frameless doors that deposit water on the seat when opened on a wet day.

But the A5 Sportback is still proving to be a desirable user-chooser car, distinct from the A4 range, but more practical than the A5 coupé, while its smooth 177bhp diesel engine is as refined as any offered The A5's stay at Fleet News ends in January by its competitors.

NEED TO KNOW n Service due at 18,700 miles n A trouble-free year at Fleet News

COSTS P11D price £32,580 BIK tax band 18% Annual BIK tax (40%) £2,343 Class 1A NIC £808 Annual VED £0, then £30 RV (4yr/80k) £8,800/27% Fuel cost (ppm) 10.46 AFR (ppm) 18 Running cost (4yr/80k) 45.74ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,968 Power (bhp) 177 Torque lb-ft 280 CO2 (g/km) 120 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 61.4 Max speed (mph) 142 0-62mph (sec) 8.5 Test mpg 52.3 Current mileage 19,000 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous A5 Sportback tests

OUR F L EE T

VAUXHALL INSIGNIA

2.0 ECOFLEX TECH LINE

Solid fleet car has competitive fuel costs, but it's not without its faults

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By Stephen Briers lmost 3,500 miles in and a few niggles have started to emerge.

On balance, the Insignia has little to fault. Trim quality is good, ride and handling impress, space is excellent (for passengers and luggage) and fuel consumption is reasonably low. None are class-leading, but the combination results in a solid fleet car, particularly for job-need drivers, with competitive running costs.

However, it’s not faultless. The engine has poor pick up at low revs, particularly in third gear where it effectively dies much below 1,200rpm/20mph.

It’s unusual for a diesel and I’ve been caught out on a few occasions, necessitating a hasty change down.

It also takes a while for the electronic brake to de-activate once the button is pressed, especially from cold; the light on the dash takes even longer to turn off. It might only result in a few seconds’ delay, but it is irritating to feel the initial tug from the brakes before they release when you attempt to drive off in the morning.

What’s more impressive is the fact that the glow plugs require hardly any time to warm up before you can turn the ignition; and once the engine has fired up, any subsequent re-start for the next few hours is instantaneous – there’s no waiting for the dashboard light to dim.

The stop-start system is quick to re-ignite the engine, although it is hesitant to operate on repeated stop and start – surely the point of such a system.

So what of the fuel efficiency? We were averaging 53.3mpg in the first few weeks, way off the official figure of 62.8mpg.

Stop/start system is quick to reignite the engine

NEED TO KNOW n Solid fleet car, particularly for job-need drivers n Impressive cold weather performance

COSTS P11D price £21,100 BIK tax band 16% Annual BIK tax (20%) £675 Class 1A NIC £466 Annual VED £0 then £30 RV (4yr/80k) £4,650/22% Fuel cost (ppm) 9.78 AFR (ppm) 15 Running cost (4yr/80k) 33.96ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,956 Power (bhp) 160 Torque lb-ft 258 CO2 (g/km) 114 (homologated figure) Fuel efficiency (mpg) 65.7 Max speed (mph) 134 0-62mph (sec) 9.3 Test mpg 53.4 Current mileage 8,279 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous Insignia tests

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KIA OPTIMA

DEFLEETING

COMING SOON

1.7 CDRI 2 TECH

Service to put a smile on your face A positive experience at Boongate Kia

NEED TO KNOW

n Winter check proves valuable n Test fuel economy of 52mpg

COSTS

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By John Maslen gave our long-term Kia an early Christmas present and took it for a winter check recently so I could give the manufacturer’s aftersales service a road-test.

Initially, I enquired online at our local dealer, Boongate Kia, as I have heard that dealers have struggled in the past to get to grips with responding to emails quickly. Encouragingly, Boongate Kia responded straight away.

After a short confirmation call, our quick check was booked for around £20, with a while-you-wait service.

When I dropped the car off, the team was efficient and quick, giving me an estimate of half an hour to complete the checks and directing me to the seating area, where free drinks, wi-fi and magazines were on offer.

Luke, the customer service manager, then told me the car needed a top-up of engine oil and brake fluid and also that the tyre rotation service indicator was showing, so they would move the tyres as they checked the pressures. I was mentally adding up numbers thinking it was going to be a hefty bill when labour was thrown in, but when Luke presented the invoice, it was for the princely sum of £27.81, including VAT. And when they returned the car, it had been washed, given a quick valet and they had thrown in a ‘winter survival kit’ too, complete with torch, hat and gloves.

Overall it was a very positive experience.

P11D price £21,695 BIK tax band 19% Annual BIK tax (20%) £824 Class 1A NIC £567 Annual VED £0 then £100 RV (4yr/80k) £5,425 Fuel cost (ppm) 11.09ppm AFR (ppm) 18 Running cost (4yr/80k) 35.77ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,685 Power (bhp) 134 Torque lb-ft 239 CO2 (g/km) 128 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 57.6 Max speed (mph) 125 0-62mph (sec) 10.2 Test mpg 52.0 Current mileage 15,225 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous Optima tests

OUR F L EE T

SEAT EXEO ST

2.0 TDI SPORT TECH MULTITRONIC

Estate cleans up when it comes to clearing the garden rubbish

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By Luke Neal was fortunate enough to have a new garden fence installed this month by my next door neighbour. The downside of this good fortune was that the newness of the fence highlighted all the unnecessary old tat laying around in my garden. Cue a run to the tip in the Exeo and a good opportunity to assess its load lugging ability.

The removable boot floor is an excellent idea and prevents any unwanted mess on the carpet as well as giving access to the tie down points in the floor. The rear load cover being attached to the rear seats means there is no need to remove it when loading large or awkward objects but this does, however, have its drawbacks. You do have to completely remove it to make the most of the rear seats split fold function. The low boot lip allows for easy access and the Exeo easily swallowed the load of assorted old bits of fence, paint tins and even an old garden table easily.

On a different note, I have recently received complaints from my five-yearold daughter about the lack or legroom in the rear. With her booster seat installed, her feet touch the back of the front seat leaving me to either sit too close to the steering wheel or let her sit in the front passenger seat where she is able take charge of my MP3 player and put Jessie J on repeat.

NEED TO KNOW n Removable boot floor prevents unwanted mess n Low boot lip allows for easy loading

COSTS P11D price £26,260 BIK tax band 23% Annual BIK tax (20%) £1,208 Class 1A NIC £833 Annual VED £135 RV (4yr/80k) £5,558 Fuel cost (ppm) 12.5 AFR (ppm) 15 Running cost (4yr/80k) 42.48ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,968 Power (bhp) 143 Torque lb-ft 236 CO2 (g/km) 146 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 51.4 Max speed (mph) 125 0-62mph (sec) 9.6 Test mpg 42.1 Current mileage ?????? *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous Exeo tests

FIRST DRIVE

TESTED THIS MONTH

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OUR FLEET

HONDA JAZZ

DRIVER PENALTIES

CARMAKER NEWS

DEFLEETING

COMING SOON

1.3 I-VTEC IMA HS HYBRID CVT

Jazz strikes the right note in the battle of the hybrid superminis NEED TO KNOW

n More road noise than a Yaris hybrid n Yaris hybrid has a less bland interior n Test fuel economy of 51.4mpg

COSTS Jazz's high seating position makes parking easy

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By Sarah Tooze f you want a hybrid supermini you face a choice of the Honda Jazz or the Toyota Yaris. The Yaris hybrid recently joined our long-term test fleet giving me the chance to see how it compares to the Jazz hybrid, which I have been running for the past year.

The Yaris is a full hybrid – capable of running on electric only – while the Jazz is a mild hybrid where the battery is there to assist the engine.

On the road the Yaris is a lot quieter at higher speeds and a tad more responsive. Both have an eco mode for better fuel economy. But the Yaris doesn’t offer the visual feedback that the Jazz does.

I also favour the Jazz's higher seating position, particularly when parking and manoeuvring.

On the looks front it’s hard to choose between the two although the LED lights on the Yaris give it a more modern look. Its interior is also less bland.

Blue stitching around the steering wheel and seats, and a blue gear stick add a flash of colour. But, from a practical point of view I find moving the gear stick awkward in the Yaris as the gears are stepped.

Price-wise there’s a difference of around £1,000 between the two with the Yaris the more expensive. That’s because the Yaris is the top spec T Spirit, complete with sat-nav, while the Jazz is the mid-range HS without sat-nav.

The Yaris also comes with a reversing camera.

When comparing a similarly-priced Jazz and Yaris there is a clear advantage in choosing the Yaris from a tax point of view – as highlighted in a previous test (click here) However, this is surely something Honda will address when it brings out a new Jazz.

P11D price £16,100 BIK tax band 11% Annual BIK tax (20%) £369 Class 1A NIC £295 Annual VED £0 then £20 RV (4yr/80k) £5,425 Fuel cost (ppm) 11.09ppm AFR (ppm) 18 Running cost (4yr/80k) 35.77ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,339 Power (bhp) 100 Torque lb-ft 147 CO2 (g/km) 104 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 62.8 Max speed (mph) 109 0-62mph (sec) 12.1 Test mpg 51.4 Current mileage 12,120 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous Jazz tests

OUR F L EE T

NISSAN QASHQAI

1.6 DCI N-TEC+

Family taxi duties highlight the five-seater's limitation as a family car

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By Andrew Ryan he Qashqai's carrying ability – both for people and luggage – was put to the test this month, as a visit from my Irishbased brother and his family meant a run to the airport to pick them up.

As they were only over for a weekend, they were travelling relatively lightly, so accommodating their suitcases and child's buggy in the 410-litre boot was not a problem.

However, fitting my sister-in-law in between their two children – one in a bulky child seat and the other on a booster seat – on the rear seat proved to be a bit of a squeeze.

It's unfair to criticise the Qashqai over this though, because any car of its size – at 4,330mm long and 1,780mm wide, it's 28mm shorter and 78mm narrower than a Ford Focus – would struggle to cope comfortably with these demands. Of course, fleet drivers who want the Nissan's qualities with more practicality can opt for the seven-seat Qashqai+2 at a premium of around £2,500 over the five-door model.

Otherwise, the Qashqai performed up to its usual high standards. Its 130bhp 1.6 dCi engine easily took the extra load in its stride, while the car's ride and refinement dealt comfortably with the motorway miles.

Another huge plus point was that the children loved the Qashqai's panoramic glass roof – watching the stars and overhead planes in the night sky kept them quiet for much of the journey home – a real bonus!

NEED TO KNOW

n Boot capacity of 410 litres n Qashqai+2 offers seven seats n Ride and refinement impress on motorways

COSTS P11D price £22,090 BIK tax band 17% Annual BIK tax (20%) £785 Class 1A NIC £542 Annual VED £0, then £30 RV (4yr/80k) £6,100/26% Fuel cost (ppm) 10.46 AFR (ppm) 13 Running cost (4yr/80k) 35.32ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,598 Power (bhp) 130 Torque lb-ft 236 CO2 (g/km) 119 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 62.8 Max speed (mph) 118 0-62mph (sec) 10.3 Test mpg 51.4 Current mileage 14,033 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Qashqai's 130bhp engine is a strong performer

Click here for previous Qashqai tests

FIRST DRIVE

TESTED THIS MONTH

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OUR FLEET

DRIVER PENALTIES

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RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

DEFLEETING

COMING SOON

ED4 PURE

Spare tyre issue can leave you feeling utterly deflated NEED TO KNOW n No spare wheel option causes downtime n Boosts homologated CO2 figure

COSTS The Evoque does not come with a spare tyre

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By Gareth Roberts he build quality of cars today has resulted in greater reliability for fleets and their drivers, with warranties being extended to reflect the growing confidence of manufacturers. But, while mechanical problems have become much rarer, the risk of a flat tyre remains.

And it's not helped by a growing trend among carmakers to ditch the spare to cut the car’s weight and achieve a lower CO2 rating.

The Range Rover Evoque eD4 Pure 2.2-litre diesel doesn’t have a spare wheel.

What it has is can of foam, which is used to fill the flat tyre and is designed to get the vehicle home or to a garage.

I was recently faced with a flat tyre. I was only yards from home and, facing a busy day ahead, simply wanted to get back on the road as quickly as possible.

Now, some fleets prefer their drivers not to attempt changing a spare wheel.

But even if I had wanted to, with no spare wheel I was left with the option of a mobile tyre fitter or having my vehicle recovered to a garage.

It was first thing on a Friday morning and Kwik Fit told me that they didn’t have a tyre for the 19-inch wheel in stock so a spare could not be sourced until Monday.

Five hours later my vehicle was recovered to a local Land Rover dealer, which luckily had a spare in stock. The new tyre was fitted and I was finally back on the road nearly seven hours after first discovering the puncture.

My day was effectively wasted and, with Land Rover not offering a spare wheel as an option for the Evoque, fleets and their drivers need to weigh-up the pros and cons whatever vehicle they choose.

P11D price £29,020 BIK tax band 20% Annual BIK tax (40%) £2,322 Class 1A NIC £801 Annual VED £120 RV (4yr/80k) £11,025 Fuel cost (ppm) 11.37 AFR (ppm) 18 Running cost (4yr/80k) 39.79ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 2,179 Power (bhp) 150 Torque lb-ft 280 CO2 (g/km) 133 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 56.5 Max speed (mph) 112 0-62mph (sec) 11.2 Test mpg 13,726 Current mileage 39.7

DRI V ER P EN A LT IE S

Driver penalties and road safety Here is a summary of the most common offences with their DVLA offence codes, relevant statutory law and maximum prospective penalties if you are found guilty.

SPEEDING n Six penalty points n £1,000 fine (£2,500 if on motorway) n Eight-week ban Generally speaking, a ban is more likely where your speed exceeds 45% of the statutory limit, e.g. more than 85mph on a 60mph limit road.

RUNNING A RED LIGHT n Three penalty points n £1,000 fine

DANGEROUS DRIVING n £5,000 fine n Two years' imprisonment n Driving ban of at least 12 months In 2010, 175 motorists were conficted of causing death by dangerous driving

CARELESS DRIVING n £5,000 fine n Three to nine penalty points n Discretionary ban Examples of careless driving include lapses of concentration, loss of control, careless turning into traffic and poor overtaking manoeuvres – conviction will be based on all the relevant facts of the case.

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DRINK-DRIVING n Six months' imprisonment n Driving ban of 36 months n £5,000 fine If any points are added to your licence, they will remain on your record for 11 years.

REFUSING A BREATH TEST n Four or more penalty points n Driving ban of 36 months n £1,000 fine Police can only request a sample if they have a reasonable cause to suspect you have committed a motoring offence, have consumed alcohol or have been involved in an accident.

FAILING TO STOP OR REPORT AN ACCIDENT n 10 penalty points n Six months' imprisonment n £5,000 fine Penalties for failing to report an accident are as serious as those for failing to stop after an accident. Drivers are obliged to stop after any accident which causes personal injury or damage to other road users, animals or the land adjacent to the road.

DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENCE, INSURANCE OR MOT MOT £1,000 fine Licence £1,000 fine and six penalty points (added to future licence) Insurance £5,000, discretionary driving ban and eight penalty points Driving while banned £5000, six months imprisonment and further disqualification

COMING SOON

C A RM A K ER NE W S

New car registrations reveal upward trend UK new car registrations rose 11.3% to 149,191 units in November on the back of increased private demand.

Fleet and business registrations rose by more than 5% – up by 3,918 units to 83,864, compared to 79,766 in November 2011.

In terms of market share, fleet and business registrations equated to 56% of the overall market, down 4% on last year’s figures.

From year-to-date, fleet and business registrations now account for 54% of the market at 1,042,592 units compared to 57% in 2011 with 1,044,271 registrations.

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Everitt to leave SMMT The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has announced the departure of its chief executive Paul Everitt.

Everitt will be moving to a position outside the automotive sector at the end of January 2013.

The recruitment process for a new chief executive is underway. An appointments committee is made up of SMMT president Nigel Stein, Tim Abbott (president-elect), Joe Greenwell (deputy president) and Graham Smith (past president).

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Maserati planning for fleet sales An unlikely contender is set to make a bid for a slice of the upmarket sector of the fleet market.

Italian carmaker Maserati will launch its first two diesel models in the next two years – paving the way for potential fleet sales.

Currently the company sells just 6,000 models each year but intends to grow that to a hefty 50,000 in the next three years with the help of four new models following a E1.2 billion investment.

A significant part of that growth is expected to come from sales of diesel models in the UK and Europe.

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New Skoda Octavia unveiled Skoda has unveiled its third-generation Octavia, which is roomier than before, has improved quality and will offer CO2 emissions from 89g/km.

The car will go on sale in the UK in 2013 and is developed from Volkswagen Group's new MQB platform, which will underpin all forthcoming compact and medium cars throughout the group.

Interior dimensions are increased, while boot volume is now a minimum of 590 litres – larger than in most upper-medium and executive saloons.

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Honda to unveil a Nissan Juke rival in January

Dramatic new look revealed for E-Class

Honda will take the wraps off a compact crossover car at January’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The car will be based on the Jazz, and will be a rival to the Nissan Juke and Vauxhall Mokka.

Although most details will be kept secret until the car is unveiled at the motor show, Honda chief executive Takanobi Ito confirmed to Fleet News in November that it would be influenced by the latest CR-V in its styling and its practicality, and was optimistic about its prospects.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed a dramatic new look for the E-Class, which will get its public premiere at January’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The new model, due to arrive in the UK in March, is based on the current range, but is extensively revised and includes new features earmarked for the next-generation S-Class in 2014.

Like the recent changes to the C-Class range, the E-Class will now have the ‘sport’ grille as standard with a large central Mercedes-Benz badge, although the traditional grille will remain available as part of an option pack.

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Neil Broad takes over as Toyota fleet chief Neil Broad has been appointed the new general manager for Toyota/Lexus Fleet and Vehicle Remarketing Services, replacing Ewan Shepherd who has moved to the role of general manager sales operations.

Broad, 43, joined Toyota in 1998 spending four years as sales operations manager in a field-based role before moving to head office in 2002 as manager, sales and marketing programmes.

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BMW reveals 4 Series Coupé concept BMW will introduce a new four-seat coupé in 2013 to compete with the Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupé.

The BMW Concept 4 Series Coupé, revealed this week, suggests the production version of the 4 Series Coupé will attempt to stand out more from the 3 Series, with which it will share many of its components.

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F UEL P RICE S

5

9

6

6 EXETER Diesel 139.9 Unleaded 132.04 LPG N/A

2 BRIGHTON Diesel 140.63 Unleaded 131.57 LPG N/A

7 HEREFORD Diesel 144.9** Unleaded 137.57** LPG N/A

3 CAMBRIDGE Diesel 142.17 Unleaded 133.29 LPG 79.57**

8 LEEDS Diesel 137.61* Unleaded 130.69* LPG 69.9

4 DERBY Diesel 142.01 Unleaded 132.46 LPG 77.90

9 LIVERPOOL Diesel 138.9 Unleaded 130.74 LPG 73.9

5 EDINBURGH Diesel 138.68 Unleaded 131.05 LPG 73.9

10 LONDON Diesel 139.65 Unleaded 132.05 LPG 77.23 11 MANCHESTER Diesel 139.15 Unleaded 130.96 LPG 73.9

8 11 4

1 7

1 BIRMINGHAM Diesel 138.83 Unleaded 130.46 LPG 72.62

13

12 3 14 10 2

12 NORWICH Diesel 138.24 Unleaded 132.43 LPG 78.9 13 OXFORD Diesel 140.79 Unleaded 132.01 LPG N/A 14 WATFORD Diesel 138.43 Unleaded 130.87 LPG 55.9*

For full UK fuel price figures Click here * Cheapest ** Most expensive

DE-F L EE T ING

Market up 10% in 12 months No surprises as used car market reports seasonal fall for ex-fleet cars

T

also confirmed by the fact that during the year, prices

By Gareth Roberts he average price achieved on de-fleeted at auction have continued to rise, despite the age and cars at auction fell in November, according mileage of cars remaining stable.

At BCA, the picture was the same with fleet and lease to figures from Manheim.

However, despite dropping £478 (6.9%) cars averaging £8,123 in November, falling by £253 (3%) compared to October’s record, but still compared to October's wholesignificantly ahead of the values seen earlier sale prices, the average value is still £619 higher (10.7%) now than in November 2011. Average fleet and in the year.

The data also shows that the age and lease car prices CAP performance fell by two points to 94.4% compared to October, while performance mileage of fleet vehicles peaked at 53 at BCA in against original manufacturers retail price fell months and 61,826 miles.

November by a point to 40.48% across the fleet and Mike Pilkington, chief strategy officer at lease sector.

Manheim, said: “Prices have fallen in line Year-on-year, the fleet and lease sector with a seasonal peak in stock levels and a recorded a £735 (9.9%) uplift, which means fall in demand in the winter.

“CAP has confirmed this trend by dropping Average increase year-on-year comparisons have recorded its December book values for fleet stock over 12 months in near or more than double digit improvements Manheim prices for the past six months. by 1.8%.”

Meanwhile, the average age and mileage Manheim’s monthly barometer of the wholesale vehicle sector shows the market is broadly continue to fall, having peaked earlier in the year.

Looking at the performance of vehicle segments in in equilibrium, with used prices rising in the summer more detail at Manheim, the most notable falls in months and falling back in the winter.

The ongoing chronic shortage of quality used stock is values were recorded by superminis, which fell by £176

£8,123

£619

£6,413 £6,6 99

Nov

£6,981

£8,123

£8,376

Oct

£6,706

£8,339

Sept

£6,504

£8,154

Aug

£6,620

£8,053

July

£6,699

£8,042

Jun

£7,934 £6,634

May

£7,640 £6,712

Apr

£6,427

Mar

£6,270

Feb

£6,157

£7,435

£7,714

Manheim

Jan

£5,561

Dec

Nov

£5,794

£7,388

£7,658

BCA

£7,795

Average fleet and lease used values

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8.9%); large family cars, which were down by £198 offers suffered the consequences of lower prices later.

(8.7%) and MPVs, which fell £304 or (8.7%).

Roger Woodward, managing director, CD Auction BCA communications director Tony Gannon said: “It Group, said: “Professional buyers are only bidding was not unexpected to see values falling from the on what they can resell, so good ex-fleet cars with record levels achieved in October. the right spec are attracting strong bids “Demand faltered a little in November – a "Professional while the less desirable cars continue to get seasonal element to the annual buybuyers are left on the shelf. ing cycle.” only bidding “This has been the case throughout the Figures from the National Association of year, despite the lack of supply, and suggests for what Motor Auctions (NAMA) give fleets food for the mainstream retail market continues to they can thought. It reports that in September a car be tough. resell" sold at a second attempt would have “Looking ahead to 2013, we might expect received £400 less than at the first time of being offered. some easing of supply but our contract hire sources The monetary difference between the first and second say demand from fleets for new cars is still not very sales attempt increased in October to £535 and to £700 strong so they aren’t planning to de-fleet in huge in November. Even in a market with fairly stable prices numbers. That should keep wholesale values high, for fleet vendors disinclined to accept the first ‘realistic’ the right cars.”

Values fall but remain at near record levels Average values in the fleet and lease LCV sector fell by £88 (1.7%) to £5,113 in November, reports BCA. However, it was the joint second highest average monthly value on record (with May 2012) for corporate LCV stock.

Performance against CAP fell by nearly two points to 99.6%. Retained value against manufacturer recommended price fell slightly to 31.9%, with average age and mileage virtually static. November 2012 was £60 (1.2%) ahead of the same month last year, with average age and mileage increasing.

Duncan Ward, BCA general manager commercial vehicles, said: “The market place is entering a slower phase and demand faltered a little in November.”

However, when the market eases, buyers usually leave the poorest condition vehicles behind, but with the shortage of stock, volumes held up well in November and were on a par with October’s figures.

Ward added: “Generally ex-fleet and lease stock is being snapped up by buyers. That said, vendors with large volumes of vans of a similar make, model, specification and colour should review their remarketing activity as the year draws to a close to ensure vehicles are sensibly priced.”

He said: “Overall, prices remain strong when taking the longer view and average values have probably exceeded the expectations of most market watchers when placed in the context of the weak economy and low business confidence.”

Year-on-year fleet and lease vans from BCA Fleet/lease Nov 2011 Nov 2012

Avg age 44.41 44.78

Avg mileage 69,148 72,074

Avg value £5,047 £5,107

Sale vs CAP 100.75% 99.67%

C OMING S OON

COMING SOON...

The V40 Cross Country is Volvo’s model for those customers that want a small five-door hatchback but with a more off-road and rugged look. As standard, the Cross Country SE is offered with auto-folding door mirrors with ground lights and black mirror covers, 16-inch alloy wheels, rain sensor, textile/T-Tec upholstery, tread plates and silver roof rails.

VOLVO V40 CROSS COUNTRY On sale: January

VAU X H A L L ADAM On sale: January

Using upmarket materials, the Adam is a three-door, four-seater that was unveiled at this year’s Paris motor show, hoping to rival the Fiat 500 as part-car and part-fashion accessory. The Adam offers a high level of personalisation options. Available in three trims from launch – Jam (fashionable/ colourful), Glam (elegant/sophisticated) and Slam (racy/sporty), there are almost unlimited visual combinations, with a wide variety of exterior and interior colours, equipment and materials.

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The new models you need to know about for the next 3 months Customers are now able to order the seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf, with the first UK deliveries expected in January. The new model is longer, wider and lower than the current model to generate more interior space, but new production techniques contribute to it being 100kg lighter. Launch engines include a 1.6-litre diesel which returns 74.3mpg and 99g/km of CO2.

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF On sale: January

AUDI A3 SPORTBACK On sale: March

Carrying a premium of £620 over its three-door equivalent, the first phase of A3 Sportback models is now available to order from £19,825 for delivery in March 2013. Equipment levels mirror the threedoor A3 across the three SE, Sport and S line specification levels, but the Sportback also adds rear electric windows and rear door child locks. Audi will initially offer the new A3 Sportback with a choice of one TDI and two TFSI engines. Two diesel engines and one petrol unit will follow later.

FleetNews HEL P ING S A N TA RU N EFFEC T I V E A ND EFFICIEN T R EINDEER

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year From Steve, Simon, Gareth, Sarah, Debbie and the rest of the Fleet News team