Ignition February 2014

com For pan flee y c ts a ar nd dri Issue 20 Feb 2014 ver s

Ignition Car views and news by FleetNews

F IR S T DRI V E: M A SER AT I GHIBL I

Maserati puts exotic into executive sector Italian saloon has German rivals in its sights

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F IR S T DRI V E M A SER AT I GHIBL I 3.0 D V6 AU TO

MASERATI'S EXOTIC EXECUTIVE Saloon combines allure of 100 years of heritage with competitive running costs

Ghibli lookes rather more special than a typical executive saloon

By Simon Harris he market for high-end saloons is dominated by the German premium brands.

Jaguar is seen as a suitable alternative, while Lexus is for those who like hybrids (and perhaps dislike diesel). Infiniti still struggles to appear on the radar for fleets.

So new entrants to the market can take a long time to build recognition, credibility and trust.

The fact that Maserati now wants a slice of the executive car market could raise a few eyebrows.

But unlike the newer premium Japanese brands, Maserati has 100 years of heritage to draw on.

Emotive and with a hard-earned Formula 1 world championship behind it (in 1957) as a constructor

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and an engine builder rather than paying to have its name on a car, it is well known for producing some of the most beautiful and exotic cars ever made.

Previously it has had no real presence in the fleet market, but the launch of its latest model, along with the company’s first diesel engine, means Maserati needs a presence as a company car option to meet its aspirations.

It means about 500 or so Ghiblis will end up with user-choosers this year, who perhaps had previously considered cars such as the Audi A7, Mercedes-Benz CLS and the BMW 6 Series Gran CoupĂŠ.

But Maserati has also benchmarked against the BMW 535d

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

when it comes to the diesel version of the Ghibli.

It certainly looks rather more special than a typical executive saloon, although from some angles it does have similarities with the latest range of Infinitis.

The interior has a clean look with most of the ancillary controls located in the large touch-screen display (called Maserati Touch Control).

It includes navigation, audio, ventilation and Bluetooth connectivity as well as controls for front seat heating and ventilation, steering wheel heating and the operation of the optional rear window shade. It also providesthe screen for the reversing camera.

Leather seats are standard,

To see how much this car will cost to run CLICK HERE ��

COSTS P11D price BIK tax band Annual BIK tax (40%) Annual VED RV (4yr/80k) Fuel Cost (ppm) AFR (ppm) Running cost (4yr/80k)

£48,600 26% £5,054 £175 £13,426/28% 13 17 68.64ppm

SPEC Power (hp)/ Torque (lb-ft) CO2 (g/km) Fuel efficiency (mpg) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec)

275/420 99 74.3 155 6.3

RIVAL

"Maserati has worked hard to ensure its running costs are competitive" while the dashboard is also upholstered and soft to the touch. The driver's seat has six-way electric adjustment.

The Ghibli diesel uses a 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 275hp. It’s designed and built by VM Motori – a diesel specialist in which Fiat has a 50% stake – and is related to the engines that power the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Chrysler 300C. To ensure it has the characteristic Maserati exhaust note there are sound actuators in the exhaust.

Performance is rapid enough – the power output is on a par with

S versions of the Jaguar XF and a little higher than the CLS 350 CDI. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission – the same ZF gearbox as used by BMW and Jaguar – which offers smooth changes and is responsive, although the self-centring gearstick feels a little odd at first.

The ride feels a little firm on roads that are less than perfect, although on smooth surfaces with fast sweeping bends the Ghibli is in its element with both car and driver feeling connected. It certainly vies for honours with BMW as the

Mercedes-Benz CLS350 3.0CDI AMG Sport P11D price £54,010 BIK tax band 27% Annual BIK tax (40%) £5,833 RV (4yr/80k) £13,191/24% Fuel cost (ppm) 13.45 AFR (ppm) 17 Running cost (4yr/80k) 73.43ppm *Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

driver’s choice in the sector.

Maserati has also worked hard to ensure its running costs are competitive so no fleet adding the car to its choice list would be sowing the seeds for a horror story later in the car’s life.

It offers a fixed-price servicing package for further peace of mind.

Overall the Ghibli is a surprisingly accomplished effort, and one that fleets can offer senior staff with confidence that, while it performs like an Italian exotic car should on the road, its costs compare well with best-performing rivals.

fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

F IR S T LOOK

FORD FOCUS

CLEANER, SMARTER, SAFER

The Focus has received a major update for 2014. It will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show promising lower CO2 and more technology, reports Simon Harris T ECHNOLOGY The new Focus is the first Ford to offer Perpendicular Parking which helps drivers reverse into spaces alongside other cars.

The current Focus introduced parallel parking aid Active Park Assist which uses ultrasonic sensors to locate parking spaces and steer the vehicle. The addition of two new sensors to the rear of the Focus enables Perpendicular Parking to operate in the same way.

This also features Cross Traffic Alert, which warns drivers reversing out of a parking space of vehicles that may soon be crossing behind them.

E X T ERIOR The Focus now reflects the One Ford global design language that carries through the new Mondeo (due at the end of this year) and the Fiesta.

It appears to have a lower, wider stance, with a new bonnet, front fascia and grille. Slimmer, more chiselled front headlamps and elongated fog-lamps enhance a more upmarket look.

S Y NC 2 The Focus will be the first vehicle in Europe to offer Sync 2. Ford’s in-car connectivity system features a high-resolution, eight-inch colour touchscreen and advanced voice control for easier access to audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones.

Sync 2’s navigation system also offers a split-screen display with detailed intersections. It enables drivers to issue simpler ‘one-shot’ navigation destinations, and to ask the system to ‘play’ a desired artist.

Pushing the voice control button and saying “I’m hungry” will bring up a list of local restaurants.

SAFET Y Ford has also improved its Active City Stop collision avoidance system. It has been enhanced to operate at speeds of up to 30mph, compared to 19mph with the current version. Ford also is introducing PreCollision Assist, which works with a much greater vehicle detection range to support the driver at higher speeds, for example on the motorway, by issuing warnings and, if necessary, applying braking.

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

To see how much this car will cost to run CLICK HERE �� CH A S SI S Engineers have increased the structural stiffness at the front of the car, revising the suspension geometry, increasing lateral stiffness of ‘steeringrelevant’ suspension bushes, retuning the shock absorbers and incorporating a new electronic stability programme to try to improve the feeling of engagement for the driver. The electric power steering has been retuned.

ENGINE S The new Focus offers improved fuel efficiency on many versions thanks to new powertrain options.

It will be the first vehicle in Europe to offer the new 1.5-litre Ecoboost (150hp and 180hp) petrol engine and also will be offered with the new 1.5-litre TDCi (95hp and 120hp) diesel engine.

Also available is the 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine (100hp and 125hp).

There will also be a new version of the 99g/km CO2 1.0-litre Ecoboost, the first non-hybrid petrol family car in Europe to offer sub-100g/km.

The 120hp 1.5-litre diesel Powershift automatic that will be introduced next year will offer a 19% improvement compared to the equivalentpowered current Focus. The new Focus equipped with the automatic transmission and 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine will offer a 17% improvement over the equivalent powered engine it will replace.

IN T ERIOR Ford listened to feedback and responded with a more intuitive layout, complemented by a steering wheel and central stack with fewer controls and switches. Black satin trim and chrome detailing contribute to a cleaner, more modern look.

The new centre storage console offers more space as well as a new sliding armrest.

Customers will also enjoy a quieter ride, achieved by thicker carpets, thicker side window glass, and improved engine bay insulation.

L IGH T S The adaptive front lighting system now adjusts the beams of the new bi-xenon headlamps to best suit the road layout. The system assesses the ambient light surrounding a vehicle, as well as objects in the road ahead and adjusts the headlight beam angle and intensity depending on speed, steering angle and distance to an object in front. fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

F IR S T DRI V E MER CEDE S -BENZ GL A CDI 2 2 0 4 M AT IC SE AU TO

AN A-CLASS WITH ATTITUDE Raised suspension and 4x4 technology give GLA go-anywhere capability

By Maurice Glover ercedes-Benz is banking on a fresh trend in fourwheel drive mobility to help it win a greater share of company car sales.

Officials believe the availability of go-anywhere capability in a family hatchback could prompt more businesses to include off-road models on their choice lists.

Its answer is the GLA, a compact SUV based on the popular A-Class.

“We are aware that some fleets don’t like vehicles in this category, but our hope is that this new trend will change their minds – we think our idea will be a hit because our

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new GLA simply doesn’t have the “We believe this car will prove to looks of an SUV,” said marketing be the best all-rounder in the boss Nicole Baldisweiler. compact class.”

“Instead of being Pitched to be the chunky, it has a premium alternasleek appearance tive to models Chunky looks, as well as from the BMW comfortable ride, diesel offers low running costs, providing space X1 and Audi petrol offers high performance for all the family, Q3 ranges, the good load versaGLA is the Few real advantages over regular A-Class tility and is very fourth vehicle to capable off the road be based on despite being easy to Mercedes-Benz's drive in the city. latest compact car “It should appeal to the growing platform. number of young professionals It looks much like the standard who want more from their cars as A-Class hatchback but is longer, a result of changing lifestyles. taller, has a 481-litre luggage

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

To see how much this car will cost to run CLICK HERE ��

COSTS P11D price BIK tax band Annual BIK tax (20%) Annual VED RV (4yr/80k) Fuel cost (ppm) AFR (ppm) Running cost (4yr/80k)

£29,850 21% £1,254 £125 £10,093/34% 11.24 17 41.62ppm

SPEC Power (hp)/ Torque (lb-ft) CO2 (g/km) Fuel efficiency (mpg) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec)

Interior has a premium feel

170/258 152 56.5 134 8.3

RIVAL Audi Q3 2.0 TDI 177 Quattro SE STronic P11D price £28,325 BIK tax band 25% Annual BIK tax (20%) £1,416 RV (4yr/80k) £11,331/40% Fuel cost (ppm) 12.79 AFR (ppm) 14 Running cost (4yr/80k) 34.42ppm

Big wheels and protective cladding give a striking appearance

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

"The GLA underlines its premium status with extensive safety features" compartment and a total load volume of 1,235 litres.

Standing on raised suspension, the A-Class with attitude has 40mm greater ground clearance, reinforced bodywork and automatic four-wheel drive with hilldescent control.

Big wheels and grey plastic protective cladding add to the striking appearance of a model

that displays tenacity over rough terrain, where the seven-speed twin clutch transmission apportions drive seamlessly to give confident progress with impressive grip.

On ordinary tarmac, the refinement continues with a smooth and unruffled ride, although engine noise can be obtrusive under harsh acceleration.

However, low drag and gearing that produces 75mph at only 2,000rpm in top makes for particularly relaxed motorway cruising.

A reversing camera, DAB radio and media interface, climate control, privacy glass, aluminium roof rails and ambient lighting are all included as standard.

Like other Mercedes-Benz models, the GLA underlines its premium status with extensive safety and collision prevention features, but the handy power tailgate feature on our test model was part of a £1,345 option pack.

fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

F IR S T DRI V E V OL K S WAGEN E-UP

To see how much this car will cost to run CLICK HERE ��

COSTS P11D price BIK tax band Annual BIK tax (20%) Annual VED RV (4yr/40k) Fuel cost (ppm) AFR (ppm) Running cost (4yr/40k)

£24,195 0% £0 £0 £5,804/24% 2.53 n/a 51.36ppm

SPEC

VOLKSWAGEN'S BRIGHT SPARK E-UP IS PROMISING SIGN OF CARS TO COME

By Christopher Smith t first glance, you probably wouldn’t notice the new Volkswagen E-Up. The manufacturer's electric debut is discreet, with only a few blue decals alluding to its powertrain.

That’s because, unlike groundup EVs, the bodyshell is based on the standard five-door car.

The conversion to electric has been kind, losing only one litre of boot space and 28 litres from total space with the rear seats down. There is a weight increase of 199kg, although an 82hp electric motor replaces the 60hp petrol engine.

A full charge using a three-pin plug takes nine hours, but faster charging options are available.

British Gas’s Government-

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Power (hp) CO2 (g/km) Range (miles) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec)

82 0 93 81 12.4

RIVAL Renault Zoe Interns P11D price £19,998 BIK tax band 0% Annual BIK tax (20%) £0 RV (4yr/80k) £6,032/30% Fuel cost (ppm) 1.92 AFR (ppm) n/a Running cost (4yr/40k) 39.82ppm plus

monthly battery lease

funded free domestic wall-box charger installation can charge the vehicle in six hours. A fastcharge facility sees it reach 80% *Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k) capacity in 30 minutes.

Several options increase range.

Eco and Eco+ modes reduce energy back into the battery. power output to 68hp and 54hp Volkswagen has modest UK respectively, while Eco+ targets for the E-Up’s also disables climate first year, expecting control. to sell around 250 The E-Up’s vehicles through Speedy, refined trump card is a network of 24 and easy to drive clever use of dedicated EV Limited range and regenerative retailers. steep asking price braking. Drive If the German modes D1, D2, giant’s first EV is and D3 introduce anything to go by, regenerative braking the other electric that applies the brake and hybrid vehicles due lights and turns the motor into a across the Volkswagen Group generator, pumping recovered will be very promising indeed.

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

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C OMING S OON NE W L AUNCHE S

MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS On sale: June Price: From £26,855 CO2: From 103g/km What’s new: It comes as no surprise to find the new C-Class has more than a passing resemblance to a scaled down S-Class in looks.

The fourth iteration of the C-Class also follows its big brother’s lead by shedding weight to improve economy and emissions, with the range set to include a sub-100g/km model for the first time.

This version will use a new 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine that will come with 115hp or 136hp, but Mercedes is yet to confirm exact economy and emission figures for this motor. There will also be a new 2.2-litre turbodiesel with power options spread between 115hp and 204hp, while the C220 Bluetec has 170hp, 70.6mpg and CO2 of 103g/km.

Every new C-Class will feature stop-start technology and there will also be a C300 Bluetec Hybrid model with a combined power output of 231hp that will return 72.4mpg. This will be followed by a plug-in hybrid model.

Prices and full specifications will be confirmed closer to the C-Class going on sale in June.

PORSCHE MACAN On sale: April Price: From £43,300 CO2: From 161g/km What’s new: For company drivers who thought a Porsche SUV was simply beyond their budget, the German manufacturer has come up with the Macan.

Smaller than the Cayenne, it is a rival for the top-end versions of the Range Rover Evoque.

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

It promises all of the driving excitement expected of a Porsche thanks to a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel producing 255bhp. However, this also provides CO2 of 161g/km and 46.3mpg. There are also twin-turbo 3.0- and 3.6-litre V6 petrol engines.

All Macans have a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox as standard, as well as stop-start technology and an off-road mode. The 3.0-litre petrol and diesel models both cost from £43,300.

For a full new car launch calendar CLICK HERE ��

JEEP CHEROKEE On sale: May Price: From £30,000 (estimated) CO2: n/a What’s new: An all-new Cherokee model is big news for a revitalised Jeep. Hot on the heels of the well-received Grand Cherokee comes a boldly-styled mid-sized SUV. Two petrol models using a 184hp 2.4-litre fourcylinder or 3.2-litre V6 with 271hp will be available from May. However, fleets will be keener to wait for the Fiat-sourced 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines that will be offered in 140hp and 170hp forms coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox.

While Jeep is keen for the new Cherokee to be more fun to drive on the road, it will also still deliver the goods off-road through a new fourwheel drive system. Front-wheel drive versions of the new Cherokee are also likely to help reduce

BMW 4 SERIES GRAN COUPÉ On sale: July Price: From £29,420 CO2: From 121g/km What’s new: BMW says this is a rival to the Audi A5 Sportback, rather than the 3 Series GT. The 4 Series Gran Coupé range will closely follow that of the 4 Series Coupé, so expect the 420d to be the most popular with company car drivers. There will be a choice of a six-speed manual or an eight-speed auto gearbox with lower emissions and better economy.

While the 4 Series Gran Coupé aims to offer more practicality than the two-door Coupé, don’t expect as much rear headroom or as big a boot as in the 3 GT.

emissions and boost economy to give it further appeal to the fleet market.

Inside, the Cherokee offers similar space to a Honda CR-V. The dash has a large touchscreen that uses the same technology found in Fiat and Alfa Romeo models and it uses Fiat’s Uconnect infotainment system.

PEUGEOT 308 SW On sale: June Price: From £15,500 (estimated) CO2: From 85g/km What’s new: The 308 SW will follow the lead of Peugeot’s new 308 hatch when it is unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.

It goes on sale in June and will have a large boot and the option of seven seats like the outgoing model. We’ll have to wait for prices to be confirmed closer to the SW’s launch, but expect a £1,000 premium on top of an equivalent 308 hatch.

We will also see the 308 SW with 110hp and 130hp three-cylinder petrol engines and Peugeot BlueHDi technology that will deliver sub-100g/km CO2 emissions. fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

A D V ICE

G O ULT R A LO W - K E Y FAC T S

Go Ultra Low campaign partners are: BMW, Nissan, Renault, Toyota and Vauxhall, the Office for Low Emissions, and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Sources: 1. Source London - 1,400 charge points. 2. Nissan Leaf 2011 and Chevy Volt/Vauxhall Ampera 2012 3. Committee on the Medical Effects of Air Polluution http://www.comeap.org.uk/images/Documents/Reports/comeap%20the%mortali miles) based on British Gas Clear & Simple Economy 7 unit rate for a customer paying by direct debit as at 11th November 2013, assuming 7 hours of charging at the night rate and one hour on daytime rates, 95%charging efficency. A daily standin attachment_data/file/225732/nts_2012_infographic1.pdf 8. Go Ultra Low advertising campaign: Project driving range is calculated using battery electric combined and fuel only cycles. The figure quoted is based on fuel consumption of 78.4mpg a and may not reflect your actual driving experience. Fuel consumption and project driving range will vary significantly depending on driving style, conditions, vehicle weight and speed. 9. https:// www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/a

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

Visit GoUltraLow.com for more information CLICK HERE ��

ity%20effects%20of%20long-term%20exposure%20to%20particulate%20air%20pollution%20in%20the%20uk%202010.pdf 4. Office for Low Emission Vehicles 5. Go Ultra Low advertising campaign: based on Nissan Leaf: 1.75p/mile (on a range of 124 ng charge of 26p also applied. 6. Driving the Future Today, 2013 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/239317/ultra-low-emission-vehicle-strategy.pdf 7. http://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/ and a 45 litre (9.9 gallon fuel tank) in a Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid. All figures for fuel consumption sourced from official EU-regulated test results and do not relate to a specific vehicle. These figures are provided only for the purpose of comparison Highways Agency Media Services MCR N130612 attachment_data/file/243957/nts2012-01.pdf

fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

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Thursday 18 September 2014 The International Centre, Telford

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Our Fleet

VOLVO V60

Tested by: Simon Harris "For the most part, the V60 averages 140mpg"

SUZUKI SX4

Tested by: Maurice Glover "SZ-T adds up to an attractive package"

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Tested by: Stephen Briers "It's on fuel where the Passat stands out"

MAZDA 6

The latest reviews of the team's long-term test cars...

Tested by: Luke Neal "It's a great-looking car from every angle"

KIA CEED

Tested by: John Maslen "All the key boxes are ticked, including ride"

VAUXHALL MOKKA

Tested by: Andrew Ryan "First impressions have been favourable"

LEXUS IS

Tested by: Sarah Tooze "Typing in an address is frustratingly fiddly"

HONDA CR-V

Testedby:GarethRoberts "The 1.6 i-DTEC engine continues to impress"

OUR F L EE T

LONG -T ERM T E S T S

COSTS

D 6 H Y BRID SE E LU X N AV

P11D price £49,220 BIK tax band 5% Annual BIK tax (20%) £984 Class 1A NIC £340 Annual VED £0 RV (4yr/80k) £9,000/18% Fuel cost (ppm) 4.11 AFR (ppm) 18 Running cost (4yr/80k) 61.67ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 2,400 Power (hp) 285 (engine/electric) Torque (lb-ft) 472 (engine/electric) CO2 (g/km) 48 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 148.7 Max speed (mph) 143 0-62mph (sec) 6.9 Test mpg 84.9 Current mileage 6,639

V60 is averaging 84.9mpg

VOLVO V60 Plug-in technology reduces meaning of official mpg figures

By Simon Harris fficial fuel consumption figures are meaningless.

At least almost.

The statement has more credence when you look at plug-in hybrid vehicles, where the combustion of petrol or diesel is deferred by the use of electric power taken from a mains charge.

So for the most part when the V60 Plug-in Hybrid is used for commuting, with charging at both work and home, it comfortably achieves 140mpg-plus.

However, this doesn’t take into account the cost of electricity

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For more V60 road tests CLICK HERE ��

used for charging, around half of which is provided by my employer.

The cost is unknown, but that really isn’t the point.

It means 140mpg in a plug-in hybrid vehicle isn’t the same as 140mpg in a vehicle with an internal combustion engine.

The benefit of many of those extra miles is delivered through the cost of electricity with payment displaced to another area, whether the employer (where it is currently free and not yet a taxable benefit for private miles), public charging points or domestic electricity bills.

Volvo pioneered plug-in diesel hybrid technology with the V60, and so far most of the plug-in hybrids now available or soon to launch will have petrol engines.

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

'For the most part, it comfortably achieves 140mpg' The V60 hybrid will evolve in future generations though.

A V60 using an ultra-efficient 181hp four-cylinder diesel along with electric technology would be more appealing during the times you need the engine, rather than the relatively thirsty 215hp D5 in our test car.

That isn’t to say the 2.4-litre diesel doesn’t have its benefits.

It accelerates faster than most Volvos and is particularly useful when you need a boost for overtaking.

COSTS

1.6 CRDI 3 EC ODY N A MIC S

P11D price £20,040 BIK tax band 15% Annual BIK tax (20%) £601 Class 1A NIC £415 Annual VED £0 RV (4yr/80k) £4,250/21% Fuel cost (ppm) 8.68 AFR (ppm) 12 Running cost (4yr/80k) 31.56ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) Power (hp) Torque (lb-ft) CO2 (g/km) Fuel efficiency (mpg) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec) Test mpg Current mileage

Ceed ticks all the key boxes

KIA CEED Hatchback ends its time with Fleet News on a high note

By John Maslen he Kia Ceed has enjoyed a fitting end to its stay on our fleet, with a sojourn to an awards ceremony where the brand picked up a number of gongs.

The AM Awards, organised by our sister magazine AM, are top awards for the motor retail industry, recognising dealer excellence in a number of areas.

Kia won best manufacturer digital initiative and digital initiative of the year for its decision to publish customer reviews from independent provider Reevoo on its website.

Our Ceed transported several members of the team to Birmingham to attend the awards, delivering its usual mix

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of comfortable cruising and city flexibility, especially thanks to the three power steering modes, covering Normal, Sport and Comfort.

Having the chance to change between steering assistance levels is an excellent feature. I tend to favour the Comfort mode, but colleagues have opted for the more weighty Sport option.

It’s been one of many positive aspects of the Ceed during its 12,000-mile stay with us.

I mentioned in a previous test that while Kia historically could have been considered as an alternative to traditional mainstream fleet brands, where financial savings were gained at the expense of quality or refinement, it is becoming clear that

1,582 126 191 100 74.3 122 11.5 46 11,700

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

massive investment in product is bringing it close to equal footing with traditional fleet rivals.

All the key boxes are ticked, such as build quality, ride and handling. There are minor issues, such as noise at motorway speeds, but overall impressions have been good.

As mentioned earlier, Kia owners have been able to review their cars through Revoo, and overall the Ceed is rated 9/10 by 843 customers.

Clearly, it’s a worthy winner of the AM Awards and it has also won the admiration of the road testers here at Fleet News.

For more Ceed road tests CLICK HERE ��

fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

OUR F L EE T

LONG -T ERM T E S T S

S - CR O S S S Z-T 1.6DDI A L LGRIP

COSTS P11D price £21,494 BIK tax band 17% Annual BIK tax (20%) £731 Class 1A NIC £504 Annual VED £0 then £30 RV (4yr/80k) £6,125/28% Fuel cost (ppm) 9.7 AFR (ppm) 12 Running cost (4yr/80k) 33.39ppm

SPEC Polished 17-inch alloy wheels are standard

SUZUKI SX4 Crossover is a viable alternative to established rivals

By Maurice Glover number of well-publicised rescue missions during the worst of recent winters have transformed the way most people view the role of 4x4 cars.

After years of being derided as Chelsea tractors, the biggest offroad models now enjoy hero status, even though some flout their go-anywhere credentials with macho styling complete with bullbars.

But take a step down in size and the combination of softer design lines and improved operating costs are the key reasons why C-segment crossover

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For more Suzuki road tests CLICK HERE ��

models are finding increasing favour with motorists.

Currently, around 20 examples are contesting the sales area pioneered seven years ago by the Nissan Qashqai and one of the most recent arrivals – Suzuki’s SX4 S Cross SZ-T – has just joined our long-term test fleet.

With its generous specification backed by keen pricing, the SZ-T is clearly intended to win ground in the user-chooser market.

Standing on polished, 17-inch alloy wheels, the car’s long list of equipment includes tyre pressure monitoring, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and folding door mirrors, black skid plates and wheel arch extensions.

With satellite navigation, DAB

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

Engine (cc) Power (hp) Torque (lb-ft) CO2 (g/km) Fuel efficiency (mpg) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec) Test mpg Current mileage

1,598 120 236 114 64.2 105 13 49 500

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

radio, a rear-parking camera, rear parking sensors and extra chrome styling touches included for good measure, the SZ-T adds up to an attractive standard package indeed.

Now sized closer to the most successful vehicles in the sector, the new S-Cross has a bigger interior more suited to allpurpose travel with adequate accommodation for five. Boot space is also good and among the best in class at 430 litres.

Under the bonnet is a 1.6-litre engine and after the relatively few miles it has been driven so far, impressions are that the car has a more accomplished feel than its predecessor with suspension that combines good ride quality and neat handling.

COSTS

1.7 CDT I T ECH L INE

P11D price £17,694 BIK tax band 19% Annual BIK tax (20%) £672 Class 1A NIC £464 Annual VED £0 then £30 RV (4yr/80k) £4,973/28% Fuel cost (ppm) 9.92 AFR (ppm) 14 Running cost (4yr/80k) 30ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) Power (hp) Torque (lb-ft) CO2 (g/km) Fuel efficiency (mpg) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec) Test mpg Current mileage

Silver paintwork complements the Mokka's chunky styling

VAUXHALL MOKKA

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Well-specced SUV makes a positive first impression

By Andrew Ryan t's easy to the see the appeal of a compact SUV when you're sitting in the driving seat of a Vauxhall Mokka.

Similar length and width to a small hatchback such as the Vauxhall Astra means they are easy to manouvre, while the extra height gives drivers a commanding view of the road.

It is little wonder that despite being a relatively new sector, the compact SUV market has quickly become quite crowded, with stalwarts such as the Nissan Juke and Skoda Yeti being joined in recent months by the Peugeot 2008 and Renault Captur.

Vauxhall's challenger is the Mokka, and we have recently taken delivery of 1.7 CDTi Tech

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1,686 130 221 120 62.8 116 10 54.6 1,488

Line for a long-term assessment.

Vauxhall says that 25% of compact SUV sales are to fleets and businesses, with the 1.7 CDTi engine the most popular option in its Mokka, accounting for 42% of overall registrations.

In our two-wheel drive model, this provides an official combined fuel economy of 62.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 120g/km, which puts it in the 19% benefit-in-kind tax bracket.

Vauxhall has tailored its Tech Line trim to appeal to company car drivers.

Based on the mid-range Exclusiv grade, Tech Line adds dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, power rear windows, power-fold door mirrors, USB connection,

Bluetooth, a centre front armrest, automatic lighting with high beam assist, automatic wipers, fog lights, alloy wheels, a leather steering wheel and colourscreen satellite navigation.

First impressions of the Mokka have been largely favourable.

The silver paintwork of our test car complements the design to give it an attractive chunky look, and the interior is equally welldesigned with plenty of soft-touch materials.

There's plenty of room for front seat occupants and the boot provides an ample 362 litres of space with the rear seats up.

For more Mokka road tests CLICK HERE ��

fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

OUR F L EE T

LONG -T ERM T E S T S

COSTS

2 .0 T DI HIGHL INE BLUEMOT ION T ECHNOLOGY

P11D price £23,175 BIK tax band 18% Annual BIK tax (20%) £834 Class 1A NIC £576 Annual VED £0 then £30 RV (4yr/80k) £5,825/25% Fuel cost (ppm) 10.26 AFR (ppm) 14 Running cost (4yr/80k) 35.49ppm

SPEC Residual values are up with the sector best

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT Zero SMR costs, high mpg: farewell to an ideal fleet car

By Stephen Briers he Passat has spent its final few days with us and is now on its way back to Volkswagen. It will be a tough act to follow, although we have swapped the car for an indisputable fleet favourite, the Volkswagen Golf.

We benchmark our long-term fleet cars against a matrix grid that takes into consideration all the key fleet criteria. So how did the Passat fare during its 12-month test?

Residual value forecasts from KeeResources put the Passat at 24% over four years/80,000

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For more Passat road tests CLICK HERE ��

miles, up with the sector best.

Over the past year, our SMR costs were zero. Nada. Zilch.

Perhaps we should expect that of a car in its first year and with less than 15,000 miles on the clock. However, around 15% of the cars we take on long-term test develop a problem which necessitates a visit to the dealer, so it’s by no means guaranteed.

So far, so good. But it’s on fuel that the Passat really stands out.

Its combined figure of 61.4mpg is well within reach – indeed the record achieved was just over 63mpg. Mid-50s was a regular occurrence on shorter journeys, much better than other cars offering similar figures on paper.

Despite a P11D rise of £500 since we took delivery of the car

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

Engine (cc) Power (hp) Torque (lb-ft) CO2 (g/km) Fuel efficiency (mpg) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec) Test mpg Current mileage

1,968 140 236 119 61.4 132 9.8 53.3 14,171

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

in March last year, running costs have stayed more or less the same, at 35.96ppm over four years/80,000 miles. Few better it.

Drivers will be hit with slightly higher BIK bills compared to a year ago when we took delivery of the car due to changes in the BIK threshold (18% in 2013/14 versus 17% a year earlier) and the P11D price rise. Basic rate taxpayers will now pay £843 over the course of a year, compared to £780 previously.

The Passat is an ideal fleet car, as recognised by the Fleet News Awards judges in 2012 when it took the upper-medium category. Although an all-new version is due at the start of 2015, this model still has plenty to appeal to fleets and drivers alike.

COSTS

2 .5 SE

P11D price BIK tax band Annual BIK tax (20%) Class 1A NIC Annual VED RV (4yr/80k) Fuel cost (ppm) AFR (ppm) Running cost (4yr/80k)

£32,035 11% £705 £486 £0 £8,050 9.04 24 42.98ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 2,495 Power (hp) 141/178 (electric/engine) Torque (lb-ft) 300/221(electric/engine) CO2 (g/km) 99 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 65.7 Max speed (mph) 125 0-62mph (sec) 8.3 Test mpg 46 Current mileage 5,737

LEXUS IS 300H Sat-nav strife takes some shine off the Lexus experience

By Sarah Tooze 'm still undecided about the eight-way joystick in the IS 300h, which is used to control the media system.

It can be moved around like a mouse, with a place to rest your hand, and I find it more comfortable than having to reach back to twist a wheel as I had to do in the Mercedes C-Class.

It also seems to be quicker to move through the functions.

But when it comes to typing an address in the sat-nav it’s frustratingly fiddly.

Which brings me on to my second niggle with the IS 300h: the sat-nav itself.

Although standard on the top-of-the-range Premier grade, on our entry-level SE model it’s

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a £1,995 optional extra, At that price I had high expectations, but it’s simply not as user-friendly as many other sat-navs.

There are two pages of options for setting your destination, for example. Selecting the ‘address’ option on the first page doesn’t include a postcode as you might expect. Instead, the postcode setting is a separate option, tucked away on the second page of the destination options.

There’s also no obvious mute button. Instead you have to go into the set-up options to turn the sat-nav voice off – something you’ll want to do because when driving round town centres the sat-nav alternates between two different voices.

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

'It's not as userfriendly as many other sat-navs' And it appears to be sensitive to queuing traffic, often warning of queues a few miles ahead that never materialise.

But I’m willing to forgive the IS 300h for its sat-nav foibles because there are so many other things I like about it, such as the comfy seats, the sharpness of the image of its reversing camera image and its refined drive.

For more IS 300h road tests CLICK HERE ��

fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

OUR F L EE T

LONG -T ERM T E S T S

COSTS

2 . 2D 15 0 SP OR T N AV

P11D price £25,540 BIK tax band 16% Annual BIK tax (20%) £817 Class 1A NIC £564 Annual VED £0 then £30 RV (4yr/80k) £6,075/24% Fuel cost (ppm) 9.47 AFR (ppm) 18 Running cost (4yr/80k) 39.8ppm

SPEC Mazda6 was universally liked by our testers

MAZDA6 Much-admired upper-medium saloon returns to Mazda

By Luke Neal s we say goodbye to our Mazda6 long-termer, here's a look at some of the comments it received during its year-long test:

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"Heated front seats, TomTom satellite navigation and reversing camera with steering guide as well as proximity sensors are all standard features."

Simon Harris "According to the Fleet News running cost tables, the addition of navigation results in a £150 uplift in value at four years/80,000

For more Mazda6 road tests CLICK HERE ��

miles, which is only a quarter of the cost of adding navigation."

Simon Harris “While the Mazda6 is packed with safety technology – rear vehicle monitoring and lane departure warning are also options on our test car – it is missing one much-loved piece of technology: digital radio.”

Simon Harris "The Mazda6's automatic brake holding function is activated when sensors detect an incline of 2˚ or greater. I have made a few concerted attempts at junctions where the car is facing uphill, and can verify that it does work."

Simon Harris

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk

Engine (cc) Power (hp) Torque (lb-ft) CO2 (g/km) Fuel efficiency (mpg) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec) Test mpg Current mileage

2,191 150 280 108 67.3 131 9.0 47.1 16,103

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

“Quality has discernibly improved (over the previous model), switches and buttons are more tactile; in short, everything above knee level is sleek and very impressive."

Stephen Briers “Regardless of my driving style, the Mazda6 struggles to hit the low 50mpgs; its natural level seems to be 47-48mpg, substantially below the official figure of 67.3mpg."

Stephen Briers "Mazda has done an outstanding job of bringing its Takeri concept into production. It is a greatlooking car from every angle and has real road presence."

Luke Neal

COSTS

1.61 I-DT EC SE-T

P11D price £25,770 BIK tax band 18% Annual BIK tax (20%) £928 Class 1A NIC £640 Annual VED £30 RV (4yr/80k) £7,353/28% Fuel cost (ppm) 9.92 AFR (ppm) 14 Running cost (4yr/80k) 36.56ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) Power (hp) Torque (lb-ft) CO2 (g/km) Fuel efficiency (mpg) Max speed (mph) 0-62mph (sec) Test mpg Current mileage

CR-V's diesel engine continues to impress

HONDA CR-V Low emissions give impressive SUV plenty of fleet appeal

By Gareth Roberts downward trend in CO2 emissions has put the growing SUV segment on the radar of company car drivers and the CR-V appears perfectly placed to cash-in.

Emissions of 119g/km mean the 1.6-litre i-DTEC SE-T is in the 18% benefit-in-kind tax bracket, with a 20% taxpayer paying less than £1,000 per year.

An official fuel economy figure of 62.8mpg is also impressive, as is a 0-62mph time of 11.2 seconds.

During its time on our fleet, the CR-V has struggled to get above 50mpg, partially due to the high level of urban motoring it does.

However, this return is acceptable when you remember you’re behind the wheel of a big car.

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ItnotonlyrivalsotherD-segment models for space, but could sway C-segment car drivers wanting something with a bit more room.

The CR-V features the same lightweight 1.6-litre i-DTEC engine as the Civic.

This sees an aluminium cylinder head joined to an open deck aluminium block.

It weighs 47kg less than Honda's 2.2-litre i-DTEC engine – the unit it replaces.

All the individual components have been redesigned to minimise their weight and size, and advanced production techniques have reduced weight even further.

Weight reduction is a strategy many car manufacturers have adopted, such as Mazda with its CX-5 SUV.

1,597 120 221 119 62.8 113 11.2 47.1 4,205

*Running cost data supplied by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

The CX-5 2.2d Skyactiv SE-L matches the CR-V's CO2 emissions of 119g/km, putting it in the same 18% BIK tax bracket.

The Mazda has an official fuel economy figure of 61.4mpg over the combined cycle – slightly lower than the Honda – and running costs of 35.41p per mile over four years/80,000 miles.

That’s marginally better the CR-V’s 36.56ppm, with the CX-5 having better SMR and depreciation costs.

However, the 1.6-litre i-DTEC engine in the CR-V continues to impress and as a package will have definite fleet appeal.

For more CR-V road tests CLICK HERE ��

fleetnews.co.uk February 2014 Ignition

A D V ICE

F UEL P RICE S

For full UK fuel price figures CLICK HERE ��

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8

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1 BIRMINGHAM Diesel 136.9 Unleaded 128.82 LPG 63.9*

6 EDINBURGH Diesel 135.65 Unleaded 127.84* LPG 74.57

2 BRIGHTON Diesel 135.54 Unleaded 130.33 LPG N/A

7 EXETER Diesel 138 Unleaded 131.79** LPG 72.9

3 CAMBRIDGE Diesel 138.57 Unleaded 131.29 LPG 75.1**

8 GLASGOW Diesel 136.6 Unleaded 128.95 LPG N/A

4 CARDIFF Diesel 134.57* Unleaded 128.04 LPG 73.9

9 LEEDS Diesel 135.9 Unleaded 130.65 LPG N/T

5 DERBY Diesel 139.5** Unleaded 129.4 LPG 71.3

10 LIVERPOOL Diesel 136.23 Unleaded 128.53 LPG N/A 11 LONDON Diesel 135.57 Unleaded 129 LPG N/A

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10 12

5 1 4 7

14 3 11 2

12 MANCHESTER Diesel 137.73 Unleaded 129.67 LPG 70.9 13 NEWCASTLE Diesel 135.35 Unleaded 129.45 LPG 69.9 14 NORWICH Diesel 135.57 Unleaded 128.91 LPG N/A * Cheapest ** Most expensive

Ignition February 2014 fleetnews.co.uk