Ignition November 2012

Ignition Issue 6 Nov 2012

Car views and news by FleetNews

FIRST DRIVE: HONDA CIVIC 1.6 i-DTEC

Civic reignites fleet challenge GO New diesel offers 120bhp with 94g/km of CO2 ●

GO GO Latest models ● Stay safe on the ● tested and rated roads this winter

How to minimise risk when conditions become hazardous

Mazda6, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mercedes Shooting Brake

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F IR S T DRI V E

HONDA CIVIC

1.6 i-DTEC

RAISING THE STANDARD

New 1.6-litre diesel engine offers class-leading power to CO2 emissions ratio NEED TO KNOW

■ 94g/km of CO2 and 120bhp ■ Deliveries of 120bhp engine begin in January 2013 ■ 78.5mpg on the combined cycle

H

By Simon Harris onda launched its first home-grown diesel engine in 2004 and, impressive though it was at the time, you’d be forgiven for thinking the manufacturer hadn’t really taken the strong appetite for diesel among European customers seriously.

Although the original 2.2-litre diesel was replaced in 2008 with a new engine, that’s all there was until now.

The latest version of the Honda Civic, having survived a tentative first year in fleet with only a 150bhp 2.2-litre engine serving diesel-only fleets, is ready to hit UK roads with an impressive new 1.6-litre diesel.

Taking a look at the headline figures of this engine, the advantages are clear.

CO2 emissions are 94g/km while its power output is 120bhp. Its torque output is an even more impressive maximum of 221lb-ft, with more than 200lb-ft available over an expansive low- to mid-rev range.

To give this some context, the 94g/km Volvo V40 achieves its ultra-low emissions level with a 115bhp engine, while the same engine in the standard 1.6-litre diesel Ford Focus achieves 109g/km. The new Volkswagen Golf, which Honda has used as a class benchmark, manages 99g/km in standard 105bhp 1.6 TDI form.

So an on-paper advantage to the Honda there, and given that from April 2013 the threshold for 100% first-year writing down allowance shifts from 110g/km to 95g/km, there could be cost efficiencies for outright purchase fleets in choosing the new 1.6-litre engine. The new model will also be significantly more frugal than the 2.2-litre, with an official fuel consumption figure of 78.5mpg on the combined cycle as opposed to 68.9mpg.

While this might all sound rather dry and earnest, it should not be

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ignored that Honda is also trying to inject more fun into its products while improving efficiency.

The Civic is 54kg lighter than the current 2.2 i-DTEC, and this significant weight saving should help make the 1.6-litre feel much more nimble on twisty roads.

We tried the car for a brief drive a month before the main media launch and early indications are promising. Our pre-production model was perhaps a little noisier inside the cabin than expected (although to be fair outside the car it seemed very quiet), but acceleration and overall refinement are excellent.

The gearchange is slick and engaging, and the car feels keener to gain speed when you put your foot down than its 1.6-litre rivals, thanks to its abundance of torque – noticeably more than rivals from Ford and Volkswagen.

In the latest Civic you get one of the roomiest cars in its class with a far more upmarket feel inside than its predecessor.

It has some very strong opposition in the sector, with this engine launching around the same time as the new Volkswagen Golf.

The 1.6-litre engine is also likely to end up in the CR-V in a year’s time and should the next Accord come to Europe, it would be another prime candidate given the appetite for downsizing engines.

Times might have changed while Honda has been getting this engine ready for market, but the company seems to be on target for the car’s performance, efficiency and running costs.

This has to be good news for any fleet that has been waiting for Honda to introduce this engine.

CARMAKER NEWS

DEFLEETING

COSTS P11D price £19,400 BIK tax band 13% Annual BIK tax (20%) £504 Class 1A NIC £348 Annual VED £0 RV (4yr/80k) n/a Fuel cost (ppm) n/a Running cost (4yr/80k) n/a

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,597 Bhp 120 CO2 94g/km Fuel economy 78.5mpg

To compare running costs, click here

F IR S T DRI V E

XF ENTERS SPACE RACE

Jaguar makes a stylish and practical return to executive estate market

JAGUAR XF SPORTBRAKE NEED TO KNOW n XF Sportbrake offers maximum luggage capacity of 1,675 litres n 30% of sales in executive sector go to estates n Fuel economy of 55.4mpg from 197bhp 2.2-litre diesel

J

2.2 DIESEL LUXURY

By Alisdair Suttie aguar has been absent from the estate car sector since the demise of the X-type estate. The XF Sportbrake addresses this gap in Jaguar’s range and also takes the XF further into battle with its key rivals, the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series.

These are the two cars Jaguar mentions when referring to the XF Sportbrake’s competitors, with the voluminous Mercedes E-Class Estate conspicuous by its omission from the conversation. However, this doesn’t mean the XF Sportbrake is merely a token effort at building a wagon.

Its boot offers a maximum capacity of 1,675 litres, which sits between the 5 Series Touring’s 1,670 litres and the A6 Avant’s 1,680 litres. With the 60/40 split and fold rear seats in place, the Jag offers 550 litres of luggage space, which is a shade behind the Audi’s 565 litres and the BMW’s 560 litres.

Further evidence of Jaguar genning up on its rivals is clear in the one-touch handles for folding the rear seats flat. With the rear seats down, there’s a long, flat load bed that extends to just 30mm shy of a full 2.0 metres.

Jaguar has also designed the Sportbrake with a load sill that sits flush with the boot floor. There are also floor rails that allow a variety of nets and retaining bars to be fitted to keep luggage from rolling loose around the boot. A hidden storage area underneath the boot offers some secure storage.

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The Sportbrake's re-profiled roof line offers more rear passenger space that XF saloon

A wide range of options for the XF Sportbrake include a tow bar, roof box and bicycle carrier to give the car that essential touch of lifestyle appeal.

Such accessories are needed for the new customers the XF Sportbrake will bring to Jaguar. With 30% of sales in the executive sector going to estates, there is innate sense in Jaguar offering an estate version of the XF. It also makes a strong case for itself as the better car over its saloon sister.

There is noticeably more passenger headroom in the back seat thanks to its re-profiled roof line.

The Sportbrake also uses the revised 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, which persists in 160bhp form but also now offers 197bhp, a useful 10bhp increase over the previous unit. Jaguar has also lowered the CO2 emissions of this engine so it now emits 135g/km and also records an improved 55.4mpg in both power outputs.

We tried the 197bhp 2.2 XF Sportbrake and it feels brisk, covering 0-62mph in 8.8 seconds compared to the 160bhp model’s 10.8 second time. The eight-speed automatic gearbox that’s standard in all XF Sportbrakes is as smooth as ever and combines with the 2.2-litre engine to offer plenty of low-down pulling power.

The rest of the driving experience is very much as the saloon, though the Sportbrake arguably has an even plusher ride quality thanks to its standard self-levelling rear air suspension.

For most versions of the Sportbrake, there’s a £2,500 premium over the saloon version, which is a little steeper than Audi or BMW asks to go from saloon to equivalent estate. Even so, the XF Sportbrake is priced head-on with these two direct rivals and the Jaguar matches them for space and practicality, and the Brit is also supremely comfortable and quiet to travel in.

COSTS P11D price £36,365 BIK tax band 21% Annual BIK tax (40%) £3,054 Class 1A NIC £1,053 Annual VED £120 RV (4yr/80k) n/a Fuel cost (ppm) n/a Running cost (4yr/80k) n/a

SPEC Engine (cc) 2,179 Power (bhp) 197 CO2 135g/km Fuel economy 55.4mpg

To compare running costs, click here

T E S T ED T HIS MON T H

Mazda6 2.2D Sport

Simon Harris “The Mazda6 not only has the looks of a concept car, it also has attention-grabbing low CO2.”

“Mazda says that from April 2013 production, the CO2 emissions for that model will be reduced to 104g/km, giving it a benefit-in-kind tax band advantage over its less powerful rivals.”

“The Mazda6 has changed very little in its basic design from the Takeri concept car shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2012.”

“There will be a choice of SE, SE-L and Sport equipment grades.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi 2WD

Debbie Wood “The Santa Fe is the latest model to receive the added dose of style and ability Hyundai has been giving its latest products.”

“Sharper lines and 18-inch wheels have helped improve the SUV’s road presence, giving it a sportier and more contemporary look.”

“For the first time, the Santa Fe will also be available in a two-wheel drive version which means lower CO2 and fuel consumption.”

“It has additional safety features such as electronic stability control and brake assist.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake 250 CDI Tim Bowdler “Style, practicality, performance and low running costs are all in the mix as it seeks to be the ultimate mode of transport for the more discerning executive.”

“It deals with corners effortlessly and the steering is well weighted with plenty of feel.”

“Predictably, the interior quality is top-notch.

Swathes of leather can be combined with either wood or carbon-fibre and aluminium detailing.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

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Renault Clio 1.5 dCi 90 D'mique

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Simon Harris “The new Clio has grown slightly, unusual at a time where car manufacturers seek to reduce weight and use space more efficiently.”

“It is available only as a five-door hatch. No doubt there are economies of scale in producing one type of body, and Renault claims its profile almost gives the car the appearance of a three-door.”

“The Clio feels nimble enough threading its way around tight corners and hairpins, so we can only assume it will be just as adept in the cut and thrust of urban traffic.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Kia Sorento KX-2

Maurice Glover “Riding on a new platform and boasting major changes to suspension, steering and brakes, the range-topping SUV is Kia’s latest model to be groomed for a significant move upmarket.”

“Unchanged in overall size but 10mm lower, the car that has been revised after only two years on the market provides passengers with more legroom in upgraded surroundings.”

“In addition, the fleet-favourite KX-2 now comes with rain-sensing wipers, extra leather trim and a colour LCD touch-screen.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Vauxhall Mokka Tech Line 1.7 CDTi

Maurice Glover “Tech Line trim level is set to play a key role in marketing plans for the Mokka.”

“Standard equipment across the range includes air conditioning, rake and reach adjustable steering, roof rails, steering wheel audio controls, digital radio, a trip computer and cruise control.”

“With 18 storage spaces and a maximim load space of 1,372 litres, versatility is good.” ka“Supportive seats and smooth-riding suspension provide car-like comfort and neat handling characteristics.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

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

Hyundai fires warning shot Is Korean manufacturer's strong fleet performance a statement of intent?

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By Jay Nagley, Redspy Autmotive he monthly fleet sales figures (this month showing a respectable increase) always have to put in the context of the wider economy – but understanding the wider economy is particularly hard at present.

Back in July, we said that the reported GDP figure of a 0.7% drop in the second quarter was not credible – the economy simply did not feel like it was shrinking at nearly 3% a year.

The figures for the third quarter are almost as questionable, but in the opposite direction. A reported GDP growth of 1% in a quarter would represent a very strong recovery.

In fact, we think the two figures average out to somewhere near the truth: a very slight recovery over the past six months, but nothing to get excited about.

Of course, the UK car market figures are being flattered by the desperate need of some European manufacturers to find homes for the cars rolling off their production lines.

With a relatively strong currency and an economy that is at least stable, UK buyers (both corporate and fleet) can be persuaded to buy a car if the discount is big enough. In parts of southern Europe, cars would literally have to be given away to increase overall sales volumes.

Insignia helped Vauxhall take market leadership

Hyundai registered 775 i40 models – hatchback and tourer – during October

At a manufacturer level, Vauxhall took leadership for the month of October. However, as we have remarked before, its market share has been so volatile all year that nothing can be read into one month’s figures.

Ford’s figures tend to be much more consistent, and a small increase of 1.1% in October is as much as the company could expect pending the arrival of the facelifted Fiesta in January.

The largest rises came from Hyundai (up 35.6%), with increases for nearly all models.

However, the most striking growth came from the upper-medium i40, which registered 775 units during the month. That made it the fourth best-selling upper medium car in the UK, behind models from Vauxhall, Ford and Volkswagen.

Only a few years ago the Hyundai Sonata was selling in tiny numbers and was barely noticed by either the market or the manufacturers.

Last month, Hyundai easily overtook the likes of the Toyota Avensis and Peugeot 508.

The competition will be watching carefully to see if October was a flash in the pan, or a statement of intent by the Korean manufacturer.

One of the Koreans’ European victims, Citroën, also had a good month, helped by the DS3. The one genuinely competitive car in Citroën’s range, it is selling a very respectable 8,000 units a year in the fleet market.

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October October YTD fleet YTD fleet Manufacturer fleet 2012 fleet 2011 % change 2012 2011 % change

Vauxhall 11,926 9,954 19.81% 113,791 134,532 -15.42% Ford 11,102 10,978 1.13% 134,949 132,835 1.59% Volkswagen 6,861 7,278 -5.73% 89,350 93,149 -4.08% BMW 6,366 5,778 10.18% 63,491 59,845 6.09% Audi 4,838 4,545 6.45% 60,031 56,934 5.44% Hyundai 4,189 3,090 35.57% 32,813 23,089 42.12% Peugeot 3,979 3,800 4.71% 51,786 48,010 7.87% Nissan 3,907 4,330 -9.77% 43,918 40,344 8.86% Mercedes-Benz 3,268 3,426 -4.61% 40,466 38,218 5.88% Citroen 2,997 2,283 31.27% 27,620 26,002 6.22% Kia 2,486 2,426 2.47% 28,911 23,245 24.38% Toyota 2,130 1,954 9.01% 28,904 25,273 14.37% Skoda 1,716 1,779 -3.54% 20,111 18,635 7.92% Volvo 1,701 1,141 49.08% 16,248 16,832 -3.47% Renault 1,531 3,432 -55.39% 13,536 31,090 -56.46% Seat 1,443 1,357 6.34% 16,960 16,583 2.27% Honda 1,288 1,077 19.59% 18,845 15,117 24.66% Fiat 1,224 769 59.17% 12,006 8,910 34.75% Land Rover 1,183 523 126.20% 11,936 9,681 23.29% Mini 1,172 1,837 -36.20% 16,729 16,627 0.61% Jaguar 460 321 43.30% 6,121 5,716 7.09% Chevrolet 287 381 -24.67% 7,128 5,026 41.82% Lexus 246 278 -11.51% 3,694 3,206 15.22% Smart 228 120 90.00% 1,737 1,387 25.23% Mazda 217 480 -54.79% 5,882 10,802 -45.55% Alfa Romeo 213 423 -49.65% 3,015 5,215 -42.19% Suzuki 200 126 58.73% 4,703 2,498 88.27% Mitsubishi 136 113 20.35% 1,184 2,474 -52.14% Jeep 109 30 263.33% 794 574 38.33% Porsche 68 85 -20.00% 738 686 7.58% Chrysler 62 16 287.50% 1,237 483 156.11% Aston Martin 56 18 211.11% 303 310 -2.26% Other 45 94 -52.13% 406 2,653 -89.01% Bentley 38 24 58.33% 347 313 10.86% SsangYong 29 35 -17.14% 286 58 393.10% Subaru 22 91 -75.82% 725 882 -17.80% MG 18 8 125.00% 481 94 411.70% Total 77,741 74,400 4.49% 881,182 877,328 0.44%

OUR F L EE T

RENAULT MEGANE

SPORT TOURER 1.5DCI DYNAMIQUE

Optional parking camera and Visio headlight system show their worth NEED TO KNOW

n Dynamique trim offers generous level of equipment n Parking camera and sensors are a £350 option n Test fuel economy of 62mpg

COSTS P11D price £20,545 BIK tax band 13% Annual BIK tax (20%) £534 Class 1A NIC £368 Annual VED £0 RV (4yr/80k) £4,125/20% Fuel cost (ppm) 12.96 AFR (ppm) 12 Running cost (4yr/80k) 31.96ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,461 Power (bhp) 110 Torque lb-ft 177 CO2 (g/km) 90 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 80.7 Max speed (mph) 118 0-62mph (sec) 12.4 Test mpg 62.0 Current mileage 2,000 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous Megane tests

Megane has a generous package of standard equipment

F

By Maurice Glover eatures like keyless entry, push button start, anti-pinch power windows and cruise control contribute to a generous package of equipment fitted as standard to our Renault Megane, but two options are proving to be invaluable aids to driving comfort.

The first involves rear parking sensors and a camera that shows the immediate surroundings on the sat-nav screen. It’s a boon in helping plot your reversing line with a full load and well worth £350 – only £40 more than for parking sensors alone – compared with the cost of repairing dents.

Even more useful is Visio, an electronic system to provide lane departure warning and automatic switching from main to dipped lights for £250.

I’ve never liked the former and initially regarded auto-switching as unnecessary, but now I’m a big fan.

This set-and-forget gadget allows the driver to keep hands on the wheel and automatically switches to main beam at speeds of more than 28mph. A windscreen camera scans the road ahead and switches to dipped beam if it detects light from sources such as street lights or approaching vehicles.

Research has shown that with the Visio system, main beam can be in use up to five times longer even on our busy roads without dazzling oncoming traffic.

Optimum vision is crucial to safe progress, and as the headlamps on the Megane provide a 100-metre spread of high-beam illumination compared with 30 metres on dipped beam, this is clearly a significant gadget.

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2.0 TDI S

AUDI A5 SPORTBACK

Manufacturer's approach to MP3 players isolates latest iPhone users

I

By Simon Harris was the happy recipient of a mobile phone upgrade last month, which was good news in a way, but caused a little problem in the Audi A5.

Unlike many cars that come with a standard USB socket into which you connect your MP3 player or similar device, the Audi comes with a socket in the glove compartment with a connector lead supplied for your own music player.

The one it came to us with is compatible with an Apple iPod or iPhone 3 or iPhone 4. However, Apple has decided that the iPhone 5 should have a different type of connector. A smaller one, rendering any car that has a connector provided for the earlier generation phone, or at least the cable, obsolete.

Audi isn’t to blame for my vanity in wanting to upgrade my phone, but it does seem a little strange that the integrated USB favoured by other manufacturers should be ignored, and Audi is one of a few manufacturers to provide MP3 player cables rather than a standard USB socket.

I’m sure if this were to be my company car for the next few years there would be no problem in a dealer sourcing a correct cable, and given the current mileage on the car it’s probably only a few weeks away from a visit to a dealer for its first service.

But at present the only way I can listen to my preferred music is through the Bluetooth system.

And as I hadn’t bothered to pair my phone to the car previously, it wasn’t necessarily a straightforward process as the car and my phone had a frosty introduction with neither prepared to acknowledge the presence of the other for several hours.

Fleet operators whose policy it is to ban all mobile phone calls while driving might be well served to think twice before deciding it isn’t worth selecting integrated Bluetooth on cars Bluetooth connection was where it’s available not straightforward in the A5 as an option.

NEED TO KNOW n MP3 player cable doesn't fit iPhone 5 n Problems connecting phone to Bluetooth system

COSTS P11D price £31,145 BIK tax band 18% Annual BIK tax (40%) £2,242 Class 1A NIC £773 Annual VED £0, then £30 RV (4yr/80k) £8,598 Fuel cost (ppm) 12.10 AFR (ppm) 18 Running cost (4yr/80k) 50.33ppm

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 52.5 Current mileage 17,000 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous A5 Sportback tests

OUR F L EE T

MITSUBISHI ASX

4 1.8 DIESEL 4WD

Positive first impressions from manufacturer's best-selling model NEED TO KNOW

ASX has ample power

n Official fuel economy of 54.3mpg n Engine is impressively quiet n Firm but smooth ride

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 Fuel cost (ppm) 11.99 AFR (ppm) 15 Running cost (4yr/80k) 39.54ppm

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 49.0 Current mileage 2,100 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

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By Debbie Wood

ith more than 250,000 units sold around the world since its launch in 2010, the ASX has proved a key model in Mitsubishi's line-up and is its best seller in the UK. Our long-termer, the 4 1.8 diesel 4WD, will be with us for three months and I have been pleased with its overall performance.

Although CO2 emissions at 150g/km and a combined fuel consumption figure of 54.3mpg are not class-leading, they make the ASX competitive in its sector.

I have achieved just over 55mpg on a couple of longer journeys. On shorter journeys around town, the figures drop to 35-40mpg, but I would expect the colder weather at this time of year to have a negative impact.

However, it is the overall driving experience in the ASX which has left a lasting impression. I have found the engine quieter than in other cars I have driven from this sector and the ASX provides a firm but smooth ride.

It hugs the road well and its 114bhp provides more than enough power for daily requirements.

Leather interior and heated seats add to the overall comfort. Other features that have impressed me include the reverse parking camera and the sat-nav.

Our long-termer also has a two-wheel/four-wheel drive option, which will be useful when the winter gets into full swing.

I have one grumble. I cannot believe how difficult it is to find the time – it doesn’t appear in the dashboard or on the centre console screen when the sat nav is on.

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NISSAN QASHQAI

A simple sum showed all is not as it seems with crossover's economy

O

By Andrew Ryan ur otherwise impeccable Nissan Qashqai lost a little bit of its sheen in the past month, as I discovered its exceptional fuel economy wasn’t all it was cracked up to be.

In the hands of its previous custodian, the crossover would, according to its trip computer, sometimes return more than 70mpg on journeys – far in excess of its official economy of 62.8mpg.

I was feeling pretty proud of myself, too, when I rolled up to the pumps for the first time with the trip computer telling me that I had averaged 64.7mpg over the 712.5 miles I'd travelled on a single tankful.

However, this didn't seem to correlate with the 13.14 gallons I put in, and a quick calculation later showed me that I'd actually achieved 52.4mpg – 19% less than the reported figure. To get the reported economy, I would have needed to have travelled another 140 miles.

The next fill-up told a similar tale – a reported 60.7mpg turned out to be 50.1mpg, leaving me feeling slightly deflated.

It would be harsh to be too critical of the Qashqai over this because 50mpgplus is undoubtedly still a good return, but knowing that all is not as it seems just detracts slightly from the car's feelgood factor.

And a feelgood factor is something it has in abundance – from its elevated driving position, its interior design and quality, and its road manners, the Qashqai is a very easy car to like.

NEED TO KNOW n Trip computer economy calculation is 19% out n Average fuel economy of 51.1mpg

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 51.1 Current mileage 12,824 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Qashqai's trip computer economy reading may well have been ripped up

Click here for previous Nissan Qashqai tests

OUR F L EE T

HONDA JAZZ

1.3 I-VTEC IMA HS HYBRID CVT

Hybrid technology impresses, but real-world economy disappoints

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By Sarah Tooze

hen I took delivery of the Jazz a year ago I had never driven a hybrid, but in the past year I’ve added the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4, Infiniti M35h and Vauxhall Ampera (although Vauxhall describes the Ampera as a ‘range extender’ rather than a hybrid) to the list.

I’ve been pretty impressed by the technology and, particularly in the M35h’s case, the power on offer.

There are also obvious financial reasons to consider hybrids – they typically fall into the lower company car tax bands due to low CO2 emissions.

And in a toss-up between a full electric and a hybrid I’d opt for the hybrid every time. I live in a flat which makes charging a full EV impractical.

But I’m still not sure whether my experience with the Jazz is enough to make me favour a hybrid over a conventional diesel engine – largely down to the fuel economy I’m seeing.

My average economy is currently 51.6mpg. That’s 3mpg more than I was achieving after my first month in it and I haven’t re-set the computer in the time that I’ve had it. But when I ran a diesel Seat Leon it comfortably averaged in the high 50s and would do 60-plus on a long journey.

In fairness to the Jazz, it will also do more than 60mpg on a long-journey, particularly a cross country one rather than a motorway or dual carriageway journey. And perhaps that’s where the problem lies – too many of my journeys are on the A1 where I am perhaps not light-footed as I need to be.

NEED TO KNOW

n Hybrid technology offers low CO2 n Test fuel economy increases to 51.6mpg

COSTS 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 51.6 Current mileage 11,705 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Jazz will do more than 60mpg on a long journey

Click here for previous Jazz tests

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SAVING FUEL

KIA OPTIMA

CARMAKER NEWS

DEFLEETING

1.7 CDRI 2 TECH

Saloon helps manufacturer to record UK annual sales performance Optima offers impressive comfort on long journeys

NEED TO KNOW

n Kia's sales up 12.4% year-on-year n Solid build quality

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I

By John Maslen f you search on Google under ‘Kia record sales’ there are 15.7 million results to choose from, evidence of how the brand is becoming synonymous with success.

In the UK, it has just set a new record, achieving its best ever annual sales performance with more than two months of the year to go.

Sales in October were 12.4% up on the same month last year while year-to-date sales are up 21.5% to 57,736 units, a staggering figure considering the current economic climate, but only just over halfway to its long-term ambition of 100,000 sales a year.

Over the past 14,000 miles, I have been hugely impressed with our long-term Kia Optima, particularly its solid build, comfort on long journeys and impressive features, such as intelligent Bluetooth that reads out your text messages if you verbally confirm it’s safe to do so.

It looks like a lot of other people have been impressed by the car too, judging by the comments on www.kiaownersclub.co.uk.

The biggest niggles seem to be with a small proportion of dealers who are finding it difficult to match soaring sales with high levels of service standards, particularly in relation to warranty issues or parts availability.

There are very few mentions of difficulties, but it is something that is worth monitoring considering the speed with which the Kia car parc has grown over the past few years, as demand for Kia dealer support is likely

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 13,900 *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

A brief change of cars highlights how good the Multitronic gearbox is

L

By Luke Neal ast week I traded the Exeo with our sister title AM for their long-term Ford Grand C-Max for a trip to Scotland as I needed the extra space a seven-seater can offer.

The change of car gave me the chance to compare the Exeo's Multitronic gearbox to the automatic fitted to the C-Max. The Exeo's gearbox wins hands down.

It’s not that the C-Max’s auto box is bad; in fact, it is very good and behaves just as you would expect a modern automatic to.

The Exeo’s, however, is just a step above. In all but the hardest acceleration, there is no obvious shift between gears. Instead, the power is delivered in a constant wave with only a light change felt if you really have your foot planted. This got me wondering about how it does it.

A quick visit to Wikipedia told me that Multitronic offers a stepless automatic transmission in which the ratio between the input shaft and output shaft can be varied continuously within a given range, providing virtually an infinite number of possible ratios. This means that the engine should always be operating at its most efficient level. Clever stuff.

However, one advantage that the C-Max has over the Exeo (and it's something that I've really missed since being back in the Seat) is keyless start.

It wasn’t that long ago when having a remote fob with flip-out key was enough, but having used the C-Max for a week and got used to just being able to get in and press a button to go, it now feels such a chore to flip out the Exeo's key, put it in the ignition and turn it. How quickly things move on.

NEED TO KNOW n Multitronic gearshifts usually imperceptible n Test fuel economy running at 42.1mpg

COSTS P11D price £26,010 BIK tax band 23% Annual BIK tax (20%) £1,196 Class 1A NIC £826 Annual VED £135 RV (4yr/80k) £5,558 Fuel cost (ppm) 12.43 AFR (ppm) 15 Running cost (4yr/80k) 42.24ppm

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 8,279 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Exeo's gear shifts are usually very difficult to detect

Click here for previous Exeo tests

WHAT'S NEW

TESTED THIS MONTH

SALES FIGURES

OUR FLEET

ELECTRIC FLEET

WINTER DRIVING

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

CARMAKER NEWS

DEFLEETING

ED4 PURE

Two-wheel drive model makes SUV a contender for user-chooser lists NEED TO KNOW n Two-wheel drive Evoque produces 133g/km of CO2 n Fuel consumption still well below official figures

Pure trim level offers an impressive amount of equipment

O

By Gareth Roberts nly a short while ago, the suggestion of a sub-140g/km Range Rover would have seemed laughable. But Land Rover has managed to reduce what was already an impressive 144g/km on the four-wheel drive version to 133g/km on the five-door eD4.

A 75kg weight reduction helps reduce CO2 emissions and the twowheel drive system makes it a contender for user-chooser lists with companies that might have four-wheel drive restrictions in place.

There’s also a £750 price difference between the five-door, four-wheel drive model and its two-wheel drive equivalent, so customers could potentially save money, get improved fuel economy and benefit from lower taxation.

At 133g/km, it means it’s in the 20% benefit-in-kind tax band for the current tax year and with a P11D value of £28,520, a 40% taxpayer will be looking at a bill of £190.17 per month, while a 20% taxpayer would expect to pay £95.08 a month.

Pure specification is the base level trim, but the standard kit list is pretty impressive and includes climate control, cruise control, electric adjustment for the driver’s seat, audio controls on the steering wheel, electrically adjustable and heated wing mirrors, heated front seats, leather trim, parking sensors, sat-nav and Bluetooth connectivity. Our version includes the rear view camera at a cost of £300 and the fixed panoramic roof which is well worth the additional £790.

As far as fuel economy is concerned, it’s still struggling to hit the quoted figures.

Around town the Evoque has fallen to a new low of 30mpg, while on the motorway the 2.2-litre engine continue to performs much better, but at 55mpg it is still shy of Land Rover’s quoted 62.8mpg.

COSTS P11D price £28,520 BIK tax band 20% Annual BIK tax (40%) £2,282 Class 1A NIC £787 Annual VED £120 RV (4yr/80k) £10,474 Fuel cost (ppm) 11.17 AFR (ppm) 18 Running cost (4yr/80k) 39.65ppm

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 13,112 Current mileage 38.9

Advertisement Feature

MORE CAR, LESS TAX. THAT’S TECH LINE. Wouldn’t it be great to enjoy more of the features you want from a company car without escalating your tax bill*? That’s the thinking behind Vauxhall’s high value Tech Line range.

Tech Line models give you more of those nice-to-have features – without the expense of dipping into the options list.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT INCLUDES

BIG SAVINGS OVER 4 YEARS (80,000 MILES)

• Satellite navigation** • Bluetooth®

With highly efficient ecoFLEX engines fitted to many models, Tech Line drivers benefit from reduced Benefitin-Kind tax* and fleet operators enjoy reduced VED costs, improved fuel economy and lower Class 1A National Insurance contributions. As a result, Whole Life Costs compare more than favourably with rival models:

• DMB digital radio† • Alloy wheels

The current Tech Line range comprises New Astra hatchback and Sports Tourer models, alongside Insignia hatchback and Sports Tourer, Zafira Tourer, Meriva and our exciting new Mokka compact SUV.

Vauxhall

New Astra hatchback 1.7CDTi 16v (130PS) ecoFLEX Start/Stop (99g/km)

Insignia hatchback Tech Line 2.0CDTi 16v (160PS) ecoFLEX Start/Stop

Mokka Tech Line 1.7CDTi 16v (130PS) ecoFLEX FWD Start/Stop

Equivalent

Ford Focus hatchback Zetec 2.0 TDCi (140PS)

Ford Mondeo hatchback Zetec Business Edition 2.0 TDCi (163PS)

Nissan Qashqai Acenta 1.5 dCi (110PS) Sat Nav

Whole Life Cost – Vauxhall saving up to

£3,453

SHOW ME

£3,057

SHOW ME

£6,233

SHOW ME

Total fuel cost – Vauxhall saving

£2,405

SHOW ME

£1,105

SHOW ME

£1,305

SHOW ME

BiK taxation – Vauxhall saving

£1,546

SHOW ME

£1,425

SHOW ME

£1,901

SHOW ME

For more information go to www.vauxhall.co.uk/fleet Images shown are for illustrative purposes only. All models shown feature metallic paint and may include optional equipment at extra cost. Information source: www.vauxhallfleet.co.uk/toolbox (November 2012). * = General Motors publication (November 2012). ** = Sat Nav available as a no-cost option on Meriva Tech Line, in lieu of heated front seats/steering wheel and front and rear parking sensors. † = Excludes Meriva (available as an extra-cost option from ecoFLEX and 1.7CDTi 16v (110PS and 130PS) ecoFLEX Start/Stop.

Advertisement Feature

��

NEW ASTRA The best-looking Astra we’ve ever built also offers the best value-for-money. Most diesel New Astra Tech Line models qualify for 100% first year Writing Down Allowance‡ with CO2 figures starting at just 99g/km:

P11D from

£16,485

CO2 from

99g/km

BiK from

13%

MPG

(Combined)

up to

76.3mpg

INSIGNIA With its bold design matched with innovative technology and superb dynamics, Insignia takes the Vauxhall driving experience to the next level. Diesel Insignia Tech Line models also score well on emissions, with CO2 figures starting at just 114g/km:

P11D from

£18,945

CO2 from

114g/km

BiK from

16%

MPG

(Combined)

up to

65.7mpg

MOKKA Mokka offers all the style of a big, rugged SUV made street-size and streetwise. Mokka Tech Line’s P11D values are agreeably low, too:

P11D from

£15,770

CO2 from

120g/km

BiK from

17%

MPG

(Combined)

up to

62.8mpg

Book a FREE 3 Day Test Drive UK Limited does not offer tax advice and recommends that all Company Car Drivers consult their own accountant with regards to their particular tax position. Benefit-in-Kind rates based on 2012/2013 tax year. Prices correct at time of Model Year 2013.5). ‡ = Applies to New Astra hatchback and Sports Tourer 1.3CDTi 16v (95PS) ecoFLEX Start/Stop and 1.7CDTi 16v (110PS and 130PS) ecoFLEX Start/Stop 99g/km models plus New Astra hatchback 1.3CDTi 16v (95PS)

EL EC T RIC F L EE T SUP P L EMEN T

H Y BR ID V EH ICL E S

LOOK OUT FOR THE DECEMBER 6 ISSUE OF

Fleet News

Pure electric, hybrid, range-extender, plug-in hybrid – all are electric-based technologies that are offering fleets alternatives to the conventional petrol or diesel engine.

With mainstream manufacturers investing millions of pounds bringing alternatively-fuelled cars and vans to market, the Electric Fleet supplement – published with the December 6 issue of Fleet News – considers the arguments for and against the various options, and a few less conventional ones as well.

Key features include: n The obstacles that fleets need to overcome with electric vehicles and how to do it. n Lithium-air batteries: are they the key to a 500-mile range? n The challenges of creating an effective charging infrastructure. n Do hybrids offer the best of both worlds? n The cars and vans coming to market this year n How electric vehicles work in alternative transport

F REE W I T H T HE

FleetNews

DECEMBER 6 I S SUE

EL EC T RI C S C OO T ER S

BR I T I SH GA S C A SE S T UD Y

ISS C A SE S T UD Y

T HE K E Y TO A 5 0 0 -M IL E R A NG E?

FA CIN G OB S TA CL E S

35% MORE AFFORDABLE THAN A DIESEL*.

TIME TO SWITCH.

With diesel prices at an all-time high, isn’t it time you switched? The 100% electric Renault Kangoo Van Z.E. is now eligible for the new Plug-in-Van government grant, meaning prices start from just £12,912 excluding VAT and On The Road charges. And with lower running costs, zero road tax and exemption from the Congestion Charge, it’s up to 35% more affordable to own than an equivalent diesel van (10% if you operate outside London). Oh, did we mention it’s also International Van of the Year and What Van? Van of the Year 2012?

To find out more, visit renault.co.uk/kangooze or visit your local dealer.

DRIVE THE CHANGE Business users only *Saving is based on 4 years and 10,000 miles per year. For full details of saving calculation please refer to renault.co.uk/kangooze Battery hire cost for 4 years and 10,000 miles per annum at £67 per month (excluding VAT). Official range of 106 miles according to the NEDC combined cycle. From price, after 20% Plug in Van grant deduction, starts from £12,912.40 plus VAT, delivery (£595) and first registration fee (£55).

Terms and exclusions apply. Warranty up to 4 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Service 48,000 miles. See Renault.co.uk/4+ for details. For Finance, guarantees and indemnities may be required. Finance, subject to age and status, provided by RCI Financial Services Limited, PO Box 149, Watford WD17 1FJ.

F UEL P RICE S

5

9

6

6 EXETER Diesel 142.02 Unleaded 134.86 LPG 80.90**

2 BRIGHTON Diesel 141.67 Unleaded 134.75 LPG 76.90

7 HEREFORD Diesel 143.52 Unleaded 139.12** LPG N/A

3 CAMBRIDGE Diesel 144.40** Unleaded 136.62 LPG 77.90

8 LEEDS Diesel 138.87* Unleaded 134.94 LPG N/A

4 DERBY Diesel 139.76 Unleaded 133.62 LPG 76.90

9 LIVERPOOL Diesel 140.89 Unleaded 135.83 LPG 66.45*

5 EDINBURGH Diesel 139.80 Unleaded 133.47 LPG 72.57

10 LONDON Diesel 142.72 Unleaded 135.04 LPG 76.90 11 MANCHESTER Diesel 142.48 Unleaded 138.90 LPG 71.90

8 11 4

1 7

1 BIRMINGHAM Diesel 141.14 Unleaded 134.76 LPG 69.30

13

12 3 14 10 2

12 NORWICH Diesel 139.13 Unleaded 133.42* LPG 76.9 13 OXFORD Diesel 143.34 Unleaded 135.44 LPG N/A 14 WATFORD Diesel 141.43 Unleaded 134.46 LPG N/A

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

IGNI T ION ON...

WINTER DRIVING

Driving in the winter brings vastly different – and sometimes dangerous – challenges compared to motoring at other times of the year.

Adverse weather and longer periods of darkness mean we need to adapt the way we drive.

Here are our top tips to reduce risk this winter.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE n If you don’t have to drive, don’t – especially in snow/icy conditions n Plan your journey in advance and check for road closures or diversions n Check tyre pressures, tread depths, oil and screenwash regularly – especially before long journeys n Don't use hot water to de-ice your windscreen – it could crack it n It is illegal to drive with poor visibility, so ensure you demist and de-ice the windows properly before you drive off n Check all lights are working before setting off and make sure they are clean

DRIVING n Stay in higher gears to minimise the possibility of wheelspin n Stopping distances are greatly increased in icy conditions, so leave more distance between your car and the vehicle in front than usual n Watch your speed – slippery roads require a more cautious driving style as the chance of skidding is much greater n Avoid harsh braking. Slow down in plenty of time before corners and junctions n Keep your vehicle well-ventilated. Making the cabin too hot can quickly make you drowsy

WHAT'S NEW

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SALES FIGURES

IN CASE OF A BREAKDOWN Keep these items in your vehicle: n A fully-charged mobile phone n Blankets n Torch n Food and drink n A hazard warning triangle n Sensible footwear

OUR FLEET

ELECTRIC FLEET

WINTER DRIVING

CARMAKER NEWS

DEFLEETING

C A RM A K ER NE W S

Kevin Griffin to head Ford's European CV division

Renault wins RAC Future Car Challenge

Kevin Griffin (pictured) has been promoted to lead Ford’s commercial vehicles division in Europe, while his UK fleet role will be taken by Phil Hollins. Griffin had been director of fleet operations, Ford of Britain, since 2003.

Both appointments are effective January 1, 2013.

Phil Hollins joined Ford as a graduate trainee in 1985. He held a variety of sales and marketing roles in Ford of Britain before moving to the US in 1994 and then to Ford of Canada as cross vehicle line marketing manager in 1996.

A wide range of low-emission vehicles – some of which had not been seen on UK roads before – completed the third annual Brighton to London RAC Future Car Challenge.

The event, sponsored by RAC Motoring Services, was first introduced in 2010 to showcase low energy use vehicles.

It features competitors driving electric, hybrid, hydrogen and low-emission conventional petrol and diesel cars on a 63-mile route from Brighton to London, using the least amount of energy as possible. The event is a real-world test of current and future vehicle technology.

Those taking part ranged from enthusiasts and independents driving their own vehicles to car manufacturers including Renault, Mercedes-Benz, Vauxhall, BMW and Jaguar Land Rover.

Many of the vehicles, such as the Vauxhall HydroGen4, Jaguar XJ_e PHEV and Renault ZOE will not be on sale for two or more years.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

BMW makes the most reliable company cars, says FN50

New car market growth continues in October

BMW produces the most reliable company cars in the UK, according to a survey of the 50 largest contract hire and leasing companies.

Companies in the FN50 are asked to name their most reliable cars and vans based on the number of breakdowns and warranty claims.

BMW repeated its double victory in the 2011 FN50 survey coming top as most reliable car manufacturer as well as having three cars in the top 10 with the top spot taken by the 3 Series.

UK new car registrations rose 12.1% to 151,252 units in October, bucking current demand trends in Europe.

The new car market has increased 5.0% over the year-to-date, growing in all but one month, totalling 1,771,861 units representing an increase of 83,823 units on a year ago.

Petrol, diesel and alternatively-fuelled vehicle markets posted strong growth in the month and over the year-to-date, with most vehicle segments growing as well, notably small car and dual purpose segments.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

WHAT'S NEW

TESTED THIS MONTH

SALES FIGURES

OUR FLEET

ELECTRIC FLEET

WINTER DRIVING

CARMAKER NEWS

DEFLEETING

Audi confirms James Douglas as new fleet chief

Skyactiv technology gives all-new Mazda6 an RV boost

Audi UK has confirmed that James Douglas will be the manufacturer’s new head of fleet sales after Fleet News revealed back in October that he was joining the company.

Meanwhile, the head of aftersales and service role, which until now has been central to the brand’s quest to continually evolve and improve the ownership experience, has been replaced by two new positions – head of service and parts operations and head of customer quality and network development.

John Bower, previously head of aftersales at Skoda UK, becomes head of service and parts operations and Jason Cranswick, formerly Seat UK’s national franchise manager, takes the role of head of customer quality and network development.

Residual value forecasts from CAP for the all-new Mazda6, which goes on sale in the UK in January 2013, are 7.5% higher than the outgoing model. Major fuel economy and CO2 emission improvements across the range due to Skyactiv technology have contributed to the residual value enhancements.

Residual value predictions (on a three-year/60,000mile cycle) for the Mazda6 petrol-engined saloon range average 31.8%, 33% for the petrol-engined Tourer, 31.6% for the diesel-engined saloon and 32.7% for the diesel-engined Tourer.

Versus the current Mazda6, those figures represent an average uplift of 7.5% (petrol-engined Tourer), 7% (petrol-engined hatch as no saloon available), 2.6% (diesel-engined Tourer) and 2.4% (diesel-engined hatch as no saloon available).

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Toyota appoints BCA as remarketing partner from 2013 BCA has been awarded the contract to deliver vehicle de-fleet and remarketing services to Toyota (GB) from January 1, 2013. This will include all Toyota and Lexus used vehicles from Toyota (GB), Toyota Financial Services, Toyota Motor Manufacturing and Toyota Logistics Services. It is the first time BCA has worked directly with Toyota in the UK and follows a competitive tender process.

BCA will deliver an end-to-end service, including inspection and collection, de-fleet, storage, refurbishment, inventory management, a range of sales systems and outsourced remarketing services.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Honda appoints new corporate operations manager Honda has confirmed the temporary appointment of Lee Wheeler as manager, corporate operations, has been made permanent. He has been with the company for more than seven years, initially in Honda Finance and then as manager, national leasing and SMR. He has also been manager, sales support and logistics. More recently he worked in commercial and business planning.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

DE-F L EE T ING

Record prices for ex-fleet cars Continuing problems over shortage of stock help to inflate values

T

that the average age of ex-fleet cars fell from 51 to 49

By Gareth Roberts he value of ex-company cars at auction months, while average mileages reduced from 61,119 has hit a new high, according to data from to 58,752. Such reductions in the age and mileage of the country’s two biggest remarketing ex-lease vehicles may have had an impact on prices achieved in the wholesale market. companies.

However, latest industry data highlights the Manheim has reported that long-term shortage of good quality, low the average value of de-fleeted vehicles in October peaked at £6,981. Rising by an Average selling mileage vehicles at auction, which continue to average of £185 compared to wholesale price of ex-fleet be sought out by dealers looking to fill their forecourts with attractive marques. prices achieved in September, the value of vehicles at When compared to the original new price of ex-lease and contract hire cars has now Manheim vehicles, October saw the average ex-fleet car reached its highest level since the Manheim achieve a 35% return, compared to 32% a market analysis began in 2007. year ago, according to Manheim. This strong At BCA, average fleet and lease car values price performance is another indication of a improved by just £37 (0.4%) compared to Year-on-year market that is still relatively weak on the supply September, but this was enough to create another new record monthly value of £8,376 increase in values side of the equation. at BCA BCA reports that CAP performance fell by – the sixth consecutive month that a record two points to 96.33% in October compared to value has been established.

Year-on-year, BCA says the fleet and lease sector September, with average age also falling and mileage again posted double-digit improvements, the fifth rising. Performance against original manufacturer retail price fell by half a point to 41.44% across the fleet month in a row this has happened.

During October, the figures from Manheim also show and lease sector.

£6,981

14.9%

£6,6 99 £6,981

£8,376

Oct

£6,706

£8,339

Sept

£8,154 £6,504

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

£5,794

Nov

Oct

£5,939

£7,287

£7,388

£7,658

BCA

£7,795

Average fleet and lease used values

WHAT'S NEW

TESTED THIS MONTH

SALES FIGURES

OUR FLEET

ELECTRIC FLEET

WINTER DRIVING

CARMAKER NEWS

DEFLEETING

Year-on-year, BCA says that the fleet and lease sector segments in more detail at Manheim, October saw recorded a significant 14.9% uplift, which means year- small hatchbacks and medium/large family cars – on-year comparisons have recorded double-digit which account for 65% of its stock at auction – increase improvements for five months consecutively. markedly.

Mike Pilkington, chief strategy officer at While small hatchbacks increased in value Manheim, said: “We’re clearly seeing the "The market by £91 in October, medium family cars economic theory of ‘supply and demand’ in is still tight so increased by £224 and large family cars by practice here as ex-fleet vehicle prices condition and an impressive £276. Superminis, coupes continue to rise and rise. specification and4x4sallcontinuetorealisegoodresidual “While the headline figure of £6,891 has values, achieving over 40% of their original remain no doubt been bolstered by a reduction in retail price respectively. critical" age and mileage of cars coming to auction, “The market is still tight so condition and the big picture is still the same; we are simply still not specification remain critical,” concluded Roger Woodyet seeing enough good quality, defleeted cars in the ward, managing director of online remarketer CD wholesale market to meet demand.

Auction Group.

“Predicting future market trends is always difficult, but “We know some fleet operators are tempted to extend you have to ask how long can the market sustain such contracts and that is adding to the supply issues. They strong values?” actually might be better off letting the cars go now and Looking at the performance of the key vehicle taking demand of the strong demand and firm values.”

Strong competition for good quality LCV stock Monthly values in the fleet and lease LCV sector improved by £199 (3.2%) to £5,201 in October, the highest average monthly value ever recorded for corporate LCV stock.

Performance against CAP increased by one and half points to 101.5% and retained value against manufacturer recommended price also improved by a point to 32.6%, with average age and mileage increasing slightly. October 2012 was £90 (1.7%) ahead of the same month last year – with average age and mileage rising.

Duncan Ward, BCA’s general manager commercial vehicles, said: “Any vehicle in clean condition will attract the buyers’ attention,

including older, higher mileage vehicles if they are well presented.

“As a direct consequence, values continue to rise for dealer part-exchange stock, where average CAP performance is actually higher than the corporate sector.

“As in previous months, any late year, low mileage LCVs will create a wave of interest.

“Buyers will compete strongly for any vehicle with an unusual specification or modification such as crew cab vans, cherry pickers, tippers and dropsides and we are now seeing the upswing in demand for LWB panel vans, Lutons and fridge vans ahead of the Christmas period.”

BCA year-on-year fleet and lease vans Fleet/lease Oct 2011 Oct 2012

Avg age 44.27 45.24

Avg mileage 71,021 72,352

Avg value £5,111 £5,201

Sale vs CAP 103.62% 101.52%

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 colours, interior colours, equipment and materials.

WHAT'S NEW

TESTED THIS MONTH

SALES FIGURES

OUR FLEET

ELECTRIC FLEET

WINTER DRIVING

CARMAKER NEWS

DEFLEETING

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 2013. 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 OTR for delivery in March 2013. Equipment levels mirror the three-door 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.

Exclusive networking opportunity – one night to meet the fleet industry under one roof Book early and secure a premium table position for the Fleet News Awards 2013 20 March 2013 Grosvenor House Park Lane, London

For tickets and tables contact Nicola Baxter on 01733 468289 or email nicola.baxter@bauermedia.co.uk Sponsored by

www.fleetnewsawards.com