Ignition September 2012

Ignition Issue 4 Sept 2012

Car views and news by FleetNews

FIRST DRIVE: SEAT TOLEDO

Big is best for spacious Toledo GO Class-leading room, plus cuts in CO2 ●

Defleeted car age GO hits record high ●

Extended rental terms signal changes in long-term sales mix

All the latest GO cars tested ●

Reports include VW Passat Alltrack and Suzuki Swift

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F IR S T DRI V E

BACK TO THE FUTURE

New Toledo returns to big-booted saloon shape to recapture early success

SEAT TOLEDO NEED TO KNOW n Estate car practicality and saloon looks in a hatchback body n Class-leading load capacity n Priced from £12,500

1.6 TDI SE ECOMOTIVE

By Maurice Glover Seat is delving into its past when its most successful recipe for no-frills motoring returns to the showrooms this winter.

Two decades after making an impact with a big-booted saloon-style based on the platform of the Golf, Volkswagen’s Spanish division is reviving the formula with an attractive model offering even more space for occupants and their luggage.

Sharing its underpinnings with the latest Volkswagen Polo and built in the Czech Republic alongside the Skoda Rapid, the Toledo will be pitched as an ideal compromise for business and family motorists who want high-value spacious transport.

Just as with the original car, saloon styling neatly masks a rear hatchback door that swings up to reveal a huge boot with a 550-litre capacity. And the volume potential can be stretched to an estate-car like 1,490 litres when the split-fold rear seat backrests are laid flat.

Positioned between the Ibiza and Leon, the Toledo is expected to carry an entry price of £12,500 when it goes on sale at the end of the year with a 75bhp, threecylinder, 1.2-litre petrol engine.

Three other 1.2-litre and 1.4-litre TSI petrol units developing up to 122bhp will also be available, but more than half the predicted 2,000 sales in 2013 will be driven by the Volkswagen Group’s ubiquitous 1.6-litre, 105bhp diesel motor.

WHAT'S NEW

SALES FIGURES

TESTED THIS MONTH

OUR FLEET

TYRE CHECKING

DEFLEETING

The dashboard is nicely laid out

CARMAKER NEWS

COMING SOON

Toledo's boot offers 550 litres of space

Cabin uses good quality materials Even though the diesel is mated with only a five-speed transmission, the lusty motor is capable of more than 70mpg thanks to the inclusion of stop-start and energy recovery technology. In this form, the car provides the refined, easy-going demeanour that promises relaxing travel over long distances.

The new Toledo uses a longer wheelbase to promote added legroom in bodywork so roomy that it’s hard to believe it is based on the platform of a supermini, even allowing for the fact that today’s Polo is as big as the original Golf.

As a result, accommodation is generous throughout and the remarkable amount of legroom for rear seat occupants approaches limousine levels. Significantly, the car claimed to boast D-segment space at supermini prices makes use of good grade trim materials and has a dashboard that is neatly laid out.

Though it may lack the wow factor for some observers, the Toledo has the understated appearance of a quality product and one of its strongest attributes is that this is reinforced by a solid performance and feel.

The top-range version we tried was well packaged, standing on 16-inch alloy wheels and featuring an equipment spread that included climate control, a cooled glove box, cruise control, all electric windows, fog lamps, Bluetooth connectivity, remote audio controls and leather trim for the steering wheel and gear lever knob.

Specification on S versions is also generous with air conditioning, remote audio controls, Bluetooth, a split-fold rear seat, power front windows and electronic stability control.

A 90bhp version of the diesel motor will widen the range next year to further increase the fleet appeal of a model that offers high practicality at value pricing.

COSTS P11D price £17,785 (est) BIK tax band 15% Annual BIK tax (20%) £533 Class 1A NIC £368 Annual VED £0, then £20 RV (4yr/80k) n/a Fuel cost (ppm) n/a AFR (ppm) 12 Running cost (4yr/80k) n/a

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,598 Bhp/rpm 105/4,400 Torque/rpm 250/1,500 CO2 106g/kg Mpg 70.6 Max speed 118 0-62mph 10.6 secs

To compare running costs, click here

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

Hyundai success continues Korean manufacturer sees fleet registrations rise 130.5% year-on-year

G

By Jay Nagley, Redspy Automotive iven the diminutive size of the August market (there are individual days in September where as many cars are registered), it would be wrong to extrapolate monthly trends.

For example, Land Rover was up 88.6% last month, but that was only 62 units so it hardly counts as a significant development.

The only manufacturer whose rise in registrations was significant last month was Hyundai, whose sales increased by 556 units.

Only 12 brands actually sold more than 556 units in total last month, so Hyundai’s growth of 130.5% did actually count for something.

The only manufacturer whose sales went down

Ford's new B-Max starts deliveries in October

Hyundai sales figures rose by 556 units

significantly was Ford, which dropped 19.9%, or 1,106 units, although that could easily be made up in September. It is possible that Ford will lose out for a couple of months until the new B-Max starts deliveries in October, and then the facelifted Fiesta goes on sale shortly afterwards.

Incidentally, as we speculated last month, it is now clear that the 1.0 Ecoboost is going to be the main petrol engine in virtually every Ford, regardless of size.

The Fiesta, B-Max and even Mondeo will join the Focus in using the engine over the next year or so.

Clearly the ease of selling it in the Focus has encouraged Ford to believe it can go into the Mondeo.

Logically, they are right, so long as the buyers can be persuaded to approach it with an open mind, despite the fact that the physical size of the engine is half that of the smallest petrol engine in the old Granada.

All eyes are now on September, especially for those manufacturers which had a torrid first half of the year.

None fit into this category better than Fiat’s three sister brands: Alfa Romeo, Chrysler and Jeep.

Alfa Romeo, which was supposed to be a recovering brand, is down 43.4% YTD, while the combined sales of Chrysler and Jeep are less than 1,500 units YTD. That is an increase on 2011, but Chrysler is effectively a new brand, with its Fiat-based Ypsilon and Delta, while Jeep was supposed to ride the SUV wave – the one its original Cherokee helped to create.

YTD registrations are also less than one-third what Chrysler Jeep managed in 2006.

For the overall market in September, the figures will be more slippery than a politician’s promises.

How much will be genuine demand, how much will be general oversupply, and how much will be individual manufacturers point-scoring against each other, is going to be hard to separate.

WHAT''S NEW

SALES FIGURES

TESTED THIS MONTH

OUR FLEET

TYRE CHECKING

DEFLEETING

CARMAKER NEWS

COMING SOON

August August YTD fleet YTD fleet Manufacturer fleet 2012 fleet 2011 % change 2012 2011 % change

Ford 4,856 6,062 -19.89% 101,292 100,247 1.04% Vauxhall 4,009 4,354 -7.92% 83,880 104,472 -19.71% Volkswagen 3,455 4,214 -18.01% 66,487 68,828 -3.40% Audi 2,321 2,318 0.13% 43,899 42,324 3.72% BMW 2,082 2,338 -10.95% 43,623 44,135 -1.16% Peugeot 1,953 1,815 7.60% 37,248 35,234 5.72% Nissan 2,006 1,870 7.27% 32,527 29,444 10.47% Mercedes-Benz 1,091 1,114 -2.06% 29,211 26,921 8.51% Hyundai 982 426 130.52% 21,699 14,787 46.74% Toyota 653 814 -19.78% 21,217 17,659 20.15% Kia 876 814 7.62% 20,912 16,045 30.33% CitroĂŤn 1,631 1,592 2.45% 19,956 19,688 1.36% Skoda 542 762 -28.87% 14,984 13,318 12.51% Honda 435 383 13.58% 13,156 11,381 15.60% Mini 508 703 -27.74% 12,391 10,986 12.79% Volvo 306 360 -15.00% 12,138 12,445 -2.47% Seat 504 598 -15.72% 12,098 11,396 6.16% Renault 567 987 -42.55% 9,352 23,070 -59.46% Fiat 312 277 12.64% 8,475 6,118 38.53% Land Rover 132 70 88.57% 8,063 6,945 16.10% Chevrolet 198 283 -30.04% 6,445 4,092 57.50% Mazda 218 220 -0.91% 4,323 8,119 -46.75% Jaguar 56 35 60.00% 4,144 3,759 10.24% Suzuki 163 51 219.61% 2,928 1,039 181.81% Lexus 64 59 8.47% 2,740 2,082 31.60% Alfa Romeo 87 153 -43.14% 2,308 4,077 -43.39% Chrysler Jeep 42 60 -30.00% 1,417 624 127.08% Smart 18 50 -64.00% 1,169 1,018 14.83% Mitsubishi 36 82 -56.10% 990 2,106 -52.99% Subaru 4 0 0.00% 591 499 18.44% Porsche 20 32 -37.50% 567 475 19.37% MG 0 12 -100.00% 423 72 487.50% Other 12 45 -73.33% 312 2,390 -89.01% Bentley 5 7 -28.57% 267 250 6.80% SsangYong 7 1 600.00% 193 2 9,550.00% Aston Martin 5 14 -64.29% 183 247 -25.91% Total (fleet) 30,156 32,975 -8.55% 641,608 646,294 -0.73%

T E S T ED T HIS MON T H

Volkswagen Passat Alltrack

Simon Harris “One of the surprising things about the Passat Alltrack is that it feels little different from driving a Passat estate from behind the wheel.

“The six-speed DSG gearbox is smooth and doesn’t have a negative impact on fuel consumption or CO2 emissions.

“The Volkswagen has much appeal, and should satisfy most requirements for a vehicle needed for rough terrain or towing with little of the cost and tax penalty associated with SUVs.” CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Suzuki Swift Attitude

Simon Harris “While the Swift lacks some of the upmarket materials found in the Volkswagen Polo and Ford Fiesta, it’s neatly designed and quality is more than adequate for a car of this price.

“It’s nimble around town and the 96bhp 1.2-litre engine provides enough responsiveness and comfort to make it an acceptable occasional motorway car.

“The diesel – with no additional fuel-saving technology – looks like it isn’t working hard enough.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0 CRD

Simon Harris “The fourth-generation Cherokee is all new and comes with a new V6 diesel that’s a little more efficient, if not threatening to beat European SUVs on CO2 emissions.

“The interior is also much improved, with a proper premium car feel.

“Being a Jeep, it’s capable of some tough tests off road, too, and comes with Jeep’s own version of Land Rover’s innovative Terrain Response for when work requires the Grand Cherokee to travel on tracks or on routes without any hint of a road.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

WHAT'S NEW

SALES FIGURES

TESTED THIS MONTH

OUR FLEET

Mercedes-Benz C350 CDI AMG

TYRE CHECKING

DEFLEETING

CARMAKER NEWS

COMING SOON

Simon Harris “The C-Class now has to face down a revised Audi A4 and a new BMW 3 Series.

“One key weapon for Mercedes-Benz at the top end of the C-Class range is the 265bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine in the C350 CDI. It outguns the new BMW 330d by 7bhp and the Audi A4 3.0 TDI Quattro by 20bhp.

“Our running cost figures show the C-Class gets close in pence-per-mile terms for depreciation against the 330d, and has a comfortable margin over the A4 3.0 TDI Quattro.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

SsangYong Korando Sports 2.0

Simon Harris “The Korando will be offered with a 155bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, and standard equipment includes air conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels and a load liner.

“Off-road, the Korando Sports was up to the task of wading across knee-deep water, up and down steep mounds as well as maintaining traction through muddy ruts.

“On road the vehicle was even more surprising, with a level of engine refinement and noise suppression absent from most trucks.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

Chevrolet Aveo 1.3 VCDI ECO LT

Simon Harris “The Aveo's central LED speedometer display alongside an oversize analogue rev counter is quirky, but still easy to understand, while many of the switches feel sophisticated and robust.

“The Eco model (£450 more than the standard version of the engine) comes with idling stop-start technology. This results in CO2 of 95g/km. This puts it in the same ball park as other small cars with air conditioning as standard.”

“The Aveo has a roomy interior, and is able to seat five adults.”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

OUR F L EE T

FORD GRAND C-MAX

2.0 TDCI TITANIUM

Versatility and driving experience make MPV a Fleet News favourite NEED TO KNOW

Grand C-Max offers a good compromise for drivers who occasionally need more than five seats

n Double Fleet News Award winner in 2011 n Test mpg falls 14% short of official figure n Easy Fuel system prevents misfuelling

COSTS P11D price £24,275 BIK tax band 24% Annual BIK tax (20%) £1,165 Class 1A NIC £804 Annual VED £170 RV (4yr/80k) £5,625/23% Fuel cost (ppm) 12.96 AFR (ppm) 15 Running cost (4yr/80k) 39.45ppm

SPEC Engine (cc) 1,997 Power (bhp) 140 Torque lb-ft 236 CO2 (g/km) 154 Fuel efficiency (mpg) 48.7 Max speed (mph) 123 0-62mph (sec) 10.5 Test mpg 42 Current mileage 3,758 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous C-Max tests

F

By Stephen Briers leet News’s three months with the Ford Grand C-Max are now up but they coincided perfectly with the summer period. Cue frequent day trips with extended family making use of all seven seats and every square inch of luggage space.

Admittedly, once seven seats are in use there is very little luggage space left, but as a family-orientated fleet car for employees who have the occasional need for more than five seats, the Grand C-Max offers a good compromise.

The impact on fuel efficiency of a fully laden car is surprisingly low; the 42mpg we averaged during the testing period dropped only slightly to 41mpg. That said, we never got close to achieving the official combined figure of 48.7mpg, falling short by around 14%.

Driving experiences have been good. The Grand C-Max effortlessly covers long distances but is rigid enough to reward more enthusiastic driving on winding rounds. For a large car, anyway.

Of our original quibbles, most have been resolved. Switching the key fobs solved the problem of an intermittent refusal to unlock the doors.

Likes include the Easy Fuel system which prevents misfuelling, although the 10-second delay before removing the pump nozzle can be a little tedious.

The Grand C-Max now joins our sister magazine AM but this Fleet News Award-winning car has consolidated its position as one of our favourites.

WHAT'S NEW

SALES FIGURES

TESTED THIS MONTH

SEAT EXEO ST

OUR FLEET

TYRE CHECKING

DEFLEETING

CARMAKER NEWS

COMING SOON

2.0 TDI SPORT TECH MULTITRONIC

Impressive design and build quality create initial positive impression

I

By Luke Neal ’m now two weeks into custodianship of our Exeo and already I can foresee an enjoyable future together. The excellent build quality is testament to its Audi A4 underpinnings and the Seat has not yet failed to impress any of its passengers.

The Exeo's 18-inch wheels give the car an aggressive and wellproportioned stance which is also helped by the white bodywork, a great colour choice for the ST and very ‘on trend’.

But it’s the interior that really impresses. The materials used look and feel top quality. The Exeo's black leather and silver Alcantara seats, highgloss black inlays on the dash and doors add a high-end feel. Even the door shut has an expensive sounding clunk.

On top of that, the built-in sat-nav, Bose sound system and paddle shift gear change are sure to keep any image-conscious young executive happy although in reality the Multitronic gearbox is so good there really is no point in a manual gear change at all.

Rear legroom is ample but not generous, and the retractable load cover, which also has a built-in vertical blind is both big and heavy. It is mounted to the back of smaller part of the rear seat which limits the split fold operation of the seats without its complete removal.

The only real downsides so far are that the Exeo has only one cup holder, the power steering is overly noisy at low speeds and so far the economy is disappointing. My 12-mile trip to work has seen 41mpg at best for a trip that usually sees 50mpg in my wife's Volkswagen Touran.

NEED TO KNOW n Interior provides a high-end feel n Fuel economy so far disappointing n Multitronic gearbox impresses

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 41.0 Current mileage 5,877 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Black leather and silver Alcantara seats, add a high-end feel

Click here for previous Exeo tests

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WHAT'S NEW

SALES FIGURES

TESTED THIS MONTH

OUR FLEET

TYRE CHECKING

DEFLEETING

RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

CARMAKER NEWS

COMING SOON

ED4 2.2-LITRE DIESEL

Two-wheel drive should add to stylish SUV's fleet appeal

T

By Gareth Roberts he Range Rover Evoque has already made its mark in the retail market, but now the manufacturer is hoping for corporate success with the eD4 2.2-litre two-wheel drive diesel variant. Land Rover hopes the Evoque ED4 will make its way on to user-chooser lists with companies that might have fourwheel drive restrictions in place.

The 2.2-litre diesel engine is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, giving a maximum speed of 112mph and 0-62mph in 11.2 seconds.

Fuel consumption figures from Land Rover suggest 47.1mpg in an urban environment, 62.8mpg in extra urban and 56.5mpg on the combined cycle. We will see how that measures up in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, a 75kg weight reduction drops CO2 emissions down from 144g/km on the four-wheel drive version to 133g/km on the five-door.

That equates to a 20% benefit-in-kind tax band for 2012/13.

Diesel Evoque models are available in 190bhp (SD4), 150bhp (TD4) and our high-economy 150bhp eD4 derivative, with a P11D price of £28,520.

In the interior, at the heart of the control system is an eight-inch, highdefinition touch-screen display with crisp graphics and simple, intuitive menu. The display is available with dual-view technology, so that driver and passenger can view completely independent content.

The package also includes Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone use and audio streaming, plus a range of USB and auxiliary inputs for iPods and other portable devices.

Evoque has already made its mark in the retail market

NEED TO KNOW n Two-wheel drive Evoque produces 133g/km of CO2 n Official combined fuel economy of 56.5mpg

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 43.2 Current mileage 10,677

*Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

OUR F L EE T

KIA OPTIMA

1.7 CDRI 2 TECH

Sums add up for Korean saloon's standard fuel-saving technology NEED TO KNOW n Stop-start system fitted n Potential fuel cost saving of £90 a year

COSTS

O

By John Maslen ur Kia long-termer is among a growing army of cars fitted with stop-start technology, which is intended to reduce fuel use and emissions.

The idea is simple. When the car comes to a halt and it is in neutral, the engine switches off. When you depress the clutch, it comes back to life before you have time to get into gear again. This system has worked faultlessly on our Kia Optima for more than 10,000 miles, although I have been surprised that it is active only for around 90 seconds at a time – presumably to stop the battery from becoming drained.

I began to question its value in saving money. After all, how much fuel does a car use in 90 seconds? A few minutes tapping data into a spreadsheet has provided the answer and it’s more encouraging than I thought.

To answer the first question, the Optima sips roughly 0.3 gallons of diesel per hour when idling, or 1.37 litres. That equates to 0.023 litres a minute. From that point onwards, how much you save depends on your driving profile. I estimate that I have the equivalent of five 90-second stops a day, which adds up to 0.17 litres or around 24p.

It seems barely worth the effort, but over a year that becomes £90 and over a three-year cycle £240, although that does assume you tick off these savings for every one of the calendar’s 365 days.

The real savings come when you start commuting and using the system to its fullest extent.

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 55.0 Current mileage 10,700 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous Optima tests

WHAT'S NEW

SALES FIGURES

TESTED THIS MONTH

OUR FLEET

TYRE CHECKING

DEFLEETING

NISSAN QASHQAI

CARMAKER NEWS

COMING SOON

1.6 DCI N-TEC+

Standard 360° camera makes parking in tight spots a breeze

T

By Debbie Wood he Nissan Qashqai is one of the biggest success stories of 2012 and, as well as winning a number of key awards including Best Crossover at this year’s Fleet News Awards, it is also one of the best selling cars in the UK. After five months with our long-termer, I have found myself attached to it and will miss it when I hand the keys back next month.

Our range-topping N-Tec+ comes with a long list of standard features.

Touchscreen satellite navigation, a 360° camera system, automatic lights and wipers and stop-start technology are just some of the highlights.

The stop-start technology displays on the dashboard how much CO2 you are saving when it is active, which I think is an insightful feature.

Informing the driver of the environmental benefits and giving them a tangible total is useful and I was pleased to have saved 2g/km on a recent trip to Birmingham.

The 360° camera allows you to select different views of the surrounding area of the car and comes up automatically when reversing. The camera is easy to use and particularly valuable when trying to reverse into a tight spot. The system is just missing an audible sensor alert to make the whole parking experience a complete breeze.

I have never felt disappointed or deprived with the equipment level on the Qashqai, but an instance with East Coast Trains a few weeks ago left 360° camera helps with reverse parking

me frustrated with myself.

After disembarking a train from Newcastle at Peterborough, I found I had left the keys to the Qashqai on the train.

As I wasn't allowed back on, I ended up waiting for East Coast Trains to take the keys to London before they were transferred to another train to come back to Peterborough. It wasn’t the Qashqai’s fault (it was mine), but had this car come with keyless entry, I wouldn’t have needed to take the keys out of my bag and risk leaving them on the train.

NEED TO KNOW n Worthy multiple award winner n Stop-start displays CO2 saved n Specification includes 360° cameras

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 60.7 Current mileage 7,570 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Click here for previous Qashqai tests

One efficient day to help reduce costs

Best practice seminars: • • • •

Speakers include:

Dennis Turner former chief economist, HSBC

David Rawlings director, BCF Wessex Consultants

Funding Wholelife costs Accident management Telematics / Journey management

John Wood

• • • • •

fleet operations manager, London Olympic Games Fleet Team

Grey fleet management Duty of care Fleet software Accident prevention Service, Maintenance & Repair

John Fryer

fleet services manager, London Olympic Games Fleet Team

Tuesday 16th October Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon. Cost £199+vat Headline sponsor

Session sponsors

For all general event enquires contact Nicola Baxter on 01733 468289 or Nicola.baxter@bauermedia.co.uk

To view the programme and to BOOK YOUR PLACE please go to www.fleetnewscongress.co.uk Delegate tickets available to fleet operators only

OUR F L EE T

HONDA JAZZ

1.3 I-VTEC IMA HS HYBRID CVT

Compact size gives hybrid supermini the upper hand on narrow roads

D

By Sarah Tooze riving a small hybrid car means you’re almost never envied by those in bigger executive models. I say ‘almost’ for a reason.

Last week was one of those very rare occasions when I had the upper hand by being in the Honda Jazz.

On the way to an event at a hotel deep in the English countryside, the road was not much wider than a footpath. Passing places were at a premium, too.

While I drove along unconcerned about the lack of space, a driver on his way to the same event was breaking into a sweat. He was in a Bentley.

Although he made it to the event unscathed, I couldn’t help feeling smug that I’d had the stress-free journey.

And it’s not only on English country lanes where it pays to be in a supermini. In urban areas I’m also grateful for the Jazz.

With no off-road parking at my flat there are plenty of occasions when I need to squeeze into a spot on my street. There have also been times when I’ve feared being blocked in, but the Jazz’s manoeuvrability has saved me.

It pays to be sat in a Jazz when coasting towards traffic lights too. Being a ‘mild’ hybrid, that is the time when the Jazz’s petrol engine will temporarily shut down and you benefit from the electric motor.

However, there is one environment where I’m envious of larger, more powerful models. And that’s out on the motorway when the Jazz could do with a tad more horsepower.

NEED TO KNOW n Impressive manoeuvrability n Lacks horsepower for motorway driving n Test fuel economy increases to 51.2mpg

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 51.2 Current mileage 9,567 *Running cost data supplied

by KeeResources (4yr/80k)

Jazz's manoeuvrability makes it ideal for urban environments

Click here for previous Jazz tests

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F UEL P RICE S

WHAT'S NEW

SALES FIGURES

TESTED THIS MONTH

TYRE CHECKING

OUR FLEET

5

DEFLEETING

6 EXETER Diesel 143.71 Unleaded 138.97 LPG 76.43**

2 BRIGHTON Diesel 144.25 Unleaded 139.97 LPG N/A

7 HEREFORD Diesel 144.47** Unleaded 140.68** LPG N/A

3 CAMBRIDGE Diesel 144.30 Unleaded 139.98 LPG 74.23

8 LEEDS Diesel 142.32 Unleaded 138.30 LPG 68.95

4 DERBY Diesel 142.78 Unleaded 138.89 LPG 68.40

9 LINCOLN Diesel 143.15 Unleaded 138.89 LPG 66.90

5 EDINBURGH Diesel 143.43 Unleaded 138.93 LPG 67.9

10 LONDON Diesel 143.09 Unleaded 139.04 LPG 72.9 11 MANCHESTER Diesel 142.28 Unleaded 138.43 LPG 69.9

9 4

1 7

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COMING SOON

1 BIRMINGHAM Diesel 142.92 Unleaded 138.55 LPG 74.90

8 11

CARMAKER NEWS

12 3 14 10 2

12 NORWICH Diesel 142.08* Unleaded 138.55 LPG N/A 13 OXFORD Diesel 144.36 Unleaded 139.47 LPG N/A 14 WATFORD Diesel 142.65 Unleaded 137.06* LPG 73.90

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

T Y RE CHECK ING

Tyre checking Tyres are a crucial part of car and driver safety and need to be closely monitored. This guide will provide you with some best practice tips on how to maintain and check tyres to ensure you and your drivers stay both legal and safe.

The maximum fine a court can impose for driving on a defective tyre is £2,500 for a passenger car and £5,000 for a goods vehicle plus three penalty points per tyre.

TREAD DEPTH

Excessive wear means a loss of grip which increases stopping distance.

The legal limit for tyre tread depth is 1.6mm – tyre tread should be measured using a depth gauge, however, there is also a quick test with a 20p coin if you do not have one. Place the coin in the groove of the tyre. If you can see the outer edge of the coin, it means your tread depth is less than 3mm and you should consider replacing that tyre.

TYRE PRESSURES

Incorrectly inflated tyres wear out quicker, unbalance the car and use more fuel than correctly inflated ones.

There are three key areas to consider: over-inflation, under-inflation and differing pressure for front and rear tyres. Tyre pressures should be checked at least once a month or before long journeys. The correct pressure will be specified in the vehicle manual. If you do not have a pressure monitoring gauge, they are available at most petrol stations.

CHECKING TYRES

Regularly inspect the condition of the tyres and make sure there are no cracks or bulges. Make sure there are no cuts or tears in excess of 25mm or 10% of the sectional width of the tyre, and remove any objects embedded in the tread.

Remember – when checking the tread, pressures and condition, don't forget the spare

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Tyre labelling scheme Click here Winter tyres pros and cons Click here Tyre test results Click here

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DE-F L EE T ING

Age of company cars being de Extended rental terms signal changes in long-term sales mix

T

the average age of company cars for sale at auction

By Gareth Roberts he average age of ex-company cars sold has risen consistently over the past three months.

“To our minds, this has to be linked to the trend for at auction hit a record high of 52 months in August, according to Manheim’s fleets to encourage customers to extend their rental terms back in 2008/09.” monthly market report.

The likelihood of fewer cars coming off fleet, This is the first time defleeted coupled with the slowdown in consumer vehicles under the hammer have reached demand for new vehicles, has had an impact this age since Manheim began compiling Average age on the supply of quality used cars at auction, industry data in 2007. (months) of The data supports industry commenta- ex-company cars which has in turn supported strong used values, despite the increasing age and tors’ view that extended terms – typically at Manheim mileage of cars. increasing from 36 to 42 months – are Manheim’s August market report confirms beginning to have a tangible influence on that average ex-fleet car mileages have the used car market in the UK. increased by just over 700 miles year on year The National Association of Motor Auctions (NAMA) reports there has been Average ex-fleet (to 61,883), while values have increased by car mileages 9.4% (to £6,504) over the past 12 months. a dramatic change to the sales mix of cars The average number of days defleeted cars aged between 2.6 and 3.5 years – typically ex-fleet vehicles. In August 2011 this age of vehicle have remained in stock at auction has also seen a made up 19.5% of all vehicles sold at auction. However significant fall in the past three months, according to in August this year vehicles of this age made up only the Manheim report.

Currently at 15 days, this stock turn figure has 15% of sales.

Mike Pilkington, head of strategy at Manheim reduced from 19 days in May and June, reflecting the Remarketing, said: “Our monthly report shows that continuing strong demand for good quality, well

52

61,883

£6,504 £6,6 99

£8,154

Aug

£6,620

£8,053

July

£6,699

£8,042

Jun

£7,934 £6,634

May

£7,640 £6,712

Apr

£6,427

Mar

£7,714 £6,270

Feb

£6,157

£7,435

Jan

£5,561

£7,658

Manheim

Dec

£7,388 £5,794

Nov

£5,939

£7,287

Oct

£6,154

Sept

Aug

£5,945

£7,222

£7,557

BCA

£7,795

Average fleet and lease used values

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defleeted hits a record high maintained and low mileage fleet cars.

Fleet and lease cars averaged £8,154 in August, up by £101 month-on-month and establishing yet another record average monthly value, according to figures from BCA. CAP performance at 97.59% improved compared to July, while average age and mileage remained relatively static.

Performance against original MRP (manufacturer retail price) improved marginally to 40.81% across the fleet and lease sector.

Year-on-year, the fleet and lease sector recorded a significant 12.9% uplift, which means year-on-year comparisons have recorded double digit improvements for three months consecutively.

Looking at the year-on-year selling price of vehicle segments at Manheim, it shows that while coupés, superminis and executive models have all appreciated in value, mini MPVs and 4x4s have depreciated.

Pilkington concluded: “Clearly, environmental legislation, fuel economy and market desirability all

Fleet and lease cars averaged £8,154 in August play a key role in the art of setting residual values.

“The relative values achieved at auction for specific car segments and variants needs to be carefully considered from the outset of a rental agreement.

“Our rolling monthly survey shows the winners and losers in the used market which should help fleet management companies to define their future strategies.”

Seasonal factors see used LCV values stutter in August Average used LCV values fell by £154 (3.6%) to £4,075 in August compared to July, although year-on-year figures remained ahead, reports BCA. Average age increased by a month to more than 58 months while average mileage fell to 78,000.

Values increased in the dealer part-exchange sector, but fell for fleet and lease and nearly-new vehicles.

Monthly values in the fleet and lease LCV sector fell back to £4,844 in August from £5,029 in July.

It is the lowest value recorded for a year, highlighting that seasonal pressures still have a part to play and performance against CAP dropped by a point to 98.6%.

Retained value against manufacturer recommended price was static at 30.58%, although average age rose slightly.

August 2012 was £193 (4.1%) ahead of the same month last year – despite the average van being both older and higher mileage this year.

Duncan Ward, BCA’s general manager commercial vehicles, said: “Buyer confidence remains fairly fragile and trade buyers are looking for a quick turnaround and often buying to order, rather than speculating on vehicles.

“This results in the very best retail vehicles often making exceptional money, while vans in poor condition may struggle for attention.”

C A RM A K ER NE W S

Mondeo unveiled with 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine

Engine management software lowers 3008 Hybrid4 emissions The Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 diesel-electric hybrid crossover is now available with lower CO2 emissions of 91g/km.

New management software for the engines, including a number of improvements, has been developed. These changes, which optimise the phases of energy recovery and the management of the batteries, allow new savings to be made in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption.

Ford has earmarked the all-new Mondeo as the next model to be fitted with its award-winning 1.0-litre Ecoboost petrol engine, following the Focus, B-Max, Fiesta and C-Max. It will become the smallest-ever engine to be specified in such a large family car, enabling industry-leading efficiency for petrol models, including best-in-class fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

In the new Mondeo, Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost will produce 125bhp and up to 148lb-ft of torque.

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Special edition Mazda models available to leasing companies

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Honda makes two appointments following Hummel's departure Honda (UK) has announced two new appointments to its corporate sales team in the wake of Ed Hummel’s departure to Glass’s as its sales director.

Lee Wheeler has been appointed manager of corporate operations for the interim period to head the team and Jon Jacks has been promoted to national leasing and SMR manager. Both positions are effective immediately.

These new additions strengthen the team as it prepares to introduce the new low CO2, highpowered 1.6 i-DTEC engine in the new Civic.

Standard contract hire support terms are available to leasing companies for the first time on special edition Mazdas. These include the new Venture Edition models, available across the Mazda2, Mazda3 and Mazda5 ranges, and two special edition Mazda MX-5 ‘Kuro' models.

Mazda head of fleet Steve Tomlinson said the new Venture Editions and Kuro models will appeal to fleet decision-makers and company car drivers and will further increase fleet demand.

All Venture models come equipped with a 5.8-inch Sanyo TomTom satellite navigation system with integrated Bluetooth, gunmetal alloy wheels and front fog lights.

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First look at the new Volkswagen Golf

The seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf has been unveiled in Berlin, 36 years after the original model made its debut.

At 4,255mm long, the new Golf is 56mm longer than its predecessor, while its 2,637mm wheelbase is 59mm longer. The front wheels are 43mm further forward, helping to generate more interior space. These changes have helped the new Golf improve its drag co-efficient by 10% to 0.27 Cd. Powering the Golf will be a new range of petrol and diesel engines, all of which incorporate stopstart and battery regeneration systems.

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Welsh police choose Vauxhall

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BMW to launch entry-level 1 Series diesel at end of year BMW will add a lower-priced version of the 1 Series diesel to price lists soon with production starting in November. The 114d has a maximum output of 95bhp with a peak torque of 174lb-ft.

It is fitted as standard with a suite of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies, including brake energy regeneration, gear-shift indicator, stop/start, electric power steering, active aerodynamics and reduced rolling resistance tyres.

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Audi A6 Hybrid available to order A hybrid version of the Audi A6 is now available to order, offering user-choosers a lower tax alternative to V6 diesel variants.

With prices from £43,480, the A6 hybrid is keenly priced against rivals such as the Infiniti M35h (£42,020), Lexus GS450h (£44,995) and the BMW ActiveHybrid5 (£46,865).

The A6 emits 145g/km of CO2 and has an official combined fuel economy of 44.1mpg.

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Vauxhall has strengthened its position as the largest vehicle supplier to the UK's police forces with a successful tender submission to the Welsh Police.

The deal provides the Welsh Police Authorities with vehicles until 2014, with the option to extend the contract to 2015.

The contract win now means that 41 (80%) of the 52 UK Police Authorities are using low and intermediate performance vehicles from Vauxhall.

As the largest supplier to the police authorities, Vauxhall will supply around 9,000 new vehicles over the next four years.

Reveal true picture of pre-registrations, says CAP

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Pre-registrations are a lifeline for hard-pressed dealers as well as a benefit for consumers and it is time to bring them out from the cold, says Philip Nothard, of used car pricing experts CAP. His call for transparency over pre-registrations follows an investigation at CAP that suggests up to one in every three recently reported new car sales has been registered by dealers themselves.

C OMING S OON

COMING SOON...

FORD B-MAX

Ford’s stylish B-Max small MPV provides tall accommodation for five. Sliding rear doors and, uniquely, no B-pillar, mean a gaping side opening for easy cabin access. The range kicks off with a new three-cylinder 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine.

On sale: September

JAGUAR XF SPORTBRAKE On sale: November

Jaguar has been remiss in neglecting to build an estate version of the hugely well-received XF executive saloon.

That’s due to be rectified this year with the XF Sportbrake. It will come with Jaguar’s new 2.2-litre diesel engine in 163bhp and 200bhp versions with CO2 from 135g/km.

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The new models you need to know about for the next 3 months Customers will be able to order the seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf in October, 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 VOLKSWAGEN contribute to it being 100kg lighter. Launch engines include a GOLF 1.6-litre diesel which returns 74.3mpg and 99g/km of CO2.

On sale: January

HONDA CR-V On sale: October

Honda says the new CR-V is significantly more efficient than the current model, thanks in part to a new Eco Assist function, but also because, unlike today's car, a two-wheel drive model will be available. A 2.2-litre 148bhp i-DTEC diesel will offer just under 60mpg – a big improvement over today's 43.5mpg, 171g/km diesel.