★★★★
ECHO Motors The no.1 place to turn to for motors, in print and online – www.motors-merseyside.co.uk
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Tuesday, February 22, 2011
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Tuesday, February 22, 2011
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Tuesday, February 22, 2011
★★★★
Advertisement Feature
Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool to celebrate landmark anniversary with new model launch Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool will be marking the 125th anniversary of the co-founder of Mercedes-Benz creating the world’s first car with the launch of another trendsetting model – the new generation CLS.
1886 Saw the birth of the Motorwagen - The first ’Benz’
he Pall Mall retailer will officially unveil the striking four-door coupé at a special anniversary event, which will be held from Thursday 3rd – Sunday 6th March and pay homage to the breakthrough of Karl Benz in creating the first motor car and ‘Benz’ in 1886 – the threewheeled Motorwagen.
T
And as well as getting a first glimpse of the latest model to wear the three-pointed star, visitors will also be able to view some classic models from yesteryear owned by local brand enthusiasts, such as a Mercedes-Benz SL Pagoda. The new CLS will be the main attraction and will be available to order and drive during the celebratory weekend. Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool will be showcasing several models from the new range, which from launch will consist of the 265hp CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY diesel, 306hp CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol V6 and, for the first time ever, a four-cylinder version in the shape of the refined CLS 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY diesel. A phenomenal AMG version will follow later in the year along with the V8-powered CLS 500 BlueEFFICIENCY. Owners of the latest CLS will savour a sporty and refined drive that is complemented by the car’s efficient performance. The engines utilise energy-saving measures, such as the ECO start/ stop function and the V6s are as much as 25 per cent more economical than their predecessors with considerable increases in power too. For example, the twin-turbo CLS 250 CDI
BlueEFFICIENCY can accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 150mph yet emits as little as 135g/km CO2 and returns an impressive 54.3mpg (combined). Technological advancements are not only limited to the engines. The CLS is the first Mercedes-Benz model to have frameless, all-aluminium doors and its electromechanical power steering is a world first, the system only using energy when the CLS is actually being steered and providing an unprecedented level of feel between the driver, car and road. All models feature the enhanced 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission as standard, with the entry model also boasting 18” alloy wheels, a leather interior, satellite navigation, front and rear
Parktronic with Active Park Assist, Attention Assist and a DAB digital radio as part of its impressive specification. The range also welcomes the CLS Sport, which adds 19” AMG alloy wheels, AMG bodystyling and LED High Performance headlights, which are also being premiered on the CLS. Commenting on the arrival of the CLS, Jeremy Podesta, Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool’s General Sales Manager, said: “We’re proud to have a history that includes what is recognised as the very first motor car and we’re relishing the opportunity to show motorists that today’s Mercedes-Benz, especially the new CLS-Class, are just as exciting and pioneering as that very first three-wheeler was then.
For further information on the Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool’s CLS launch event, please contact the retailer on 0845 128 7093.
Celebrate a new era in motoring with Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool 2011 represents 125 years of Mercedes-Benz innovation. By setting the standard once again, our latest models continue to keep us there. Order a new-generation C-Class or CLS-Class before 31st March 2011 and receive a complimentary Driving Experience Day at Mercedes-Benz World∆. The new generation C-Class With a significantly rejuvenated exterior and interior design it will continue to be a best seller. This model sees the debut of a new telematics generation which will be introduced in other models in the range. Other enhancements include; − Lower fuel emissions from just 117g/km CO2 − 7G-Tronic Plus 7-speed automatic transmission − ECO Start/Stop function
− 10 new assistance systems − New telematics including Becker Map Pilot − Affordable Service Care plans from £26 per month*
The new generation CLS-Class Every bit as refined as you’d expect it to be, it pushes boundaries further still, incorporating and revolutionary new design philosophy and much more besides. − Electro-mechanical steering − Direct Control suspension − Affordable Service Care plans from £36 per month*
− 7G-Tronic Plus 7-speed automatic transmission − ECO Start/Stop function
Book your test drive today on 0845 128 7093
Inchcape Group
Mercedes-Benz of Liverpool 66 - 68 Pall Mall, Liverpool L3 7DB 0845 128 7093 www.mercedes-benz.inchcape.co.uk Part of the largest independent retailer group of Mercedes-Benz in the UK.
Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-Class Saloon range: urban 30.4(9.3)-50.4(5.6), extra urban 54.3(5.2)-76.3(3.7), combined 42.2(6.7)-64.2(4.4). CO2 emissions: 169-117 g/km. Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the CLS-Class range: urban 12.5(22.6)-26.6(10.6), extra urban 28.5(9.9)-47.9(5.9), combined 19.5(14.5)-37.2(7.6). CO2 emissions: 345-200 g/km. Models shown are a Mercedes-Benz C 180 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY at £30,000.00 on the road including optional metallic paint at £645 and panoramic sunroof at £1325. A Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport at £52,983 on the road. (on the road includes VAT, delivery, 12 months road fund licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). ∆Subject to availability, terms and conditions. No cash alternative. *Price is based on the range base model and is for available for 2 or 3 services, excludes AMG models.
★★★★
Motors
5
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
SEAT’s bright outlook A
ECO CHAMP: The SEAT Ibiza range includes the Ecomotive. Ibiza range prices start at £9,925. More details from Liverpool SEAT, Pall Mall, on 0151 243 2100
TRENDY image, racy styling and bright colours all contribute towards SEAT boasting it attracts the youngest average age of car buyers in Europe. And with production totalling more than four million since its arrival more than 25 years ago the Ibiza is comfortably the Volkswagen-owned Spanish company’s best selling model. One of the most stylish models in the all-important supermini sector and multiple award winner, the Ibiza is now also an eco champion. Ecomotive is the name SEAT gives to the most economical and lowest emissions cars in its line-up and the latest Ibiza
by MIKE TORPEY Ecomotives are among the lowest polluting new cars on sale here. With their ultra low emissions and markedly cheaper purchase price than hybrid petrol-electric cars, the Ibiza E versions have a CO2 figure of 92g/km – so there’s no need for a road fund licence as they all fit into the tax-exempt VED Band A – and regardless of body style they can still return up to a whopping 80.7 miles per gallon on the Combined cycle. Cars are available in SC hatchback, five-door and ST estate versions, all featuring a 1.2-litre common rail turbodiesel that has been re-worked to cut emissions and improve economy. All three versions have a five-speed manual gearbox, Stop/Start plus Brake Energy Recovery, low group three insurance and speed sensitive power steering.
6
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
★★★★
Motors
Small wonder – Citroen’s C1 is a real city slicker FUNKY, flexible and fun are the three words that best describe Citroen’s popular city car the C1. With list prices from £8,695 and current offers from participating dealers bringing the tab as low as £6,695, this is certainly a city slicker with bags of appeal. But as well as being one of the cheapest new cars around the C1 also boasts an average 62.8 miles per gallon, group 2 insurance and with CO2 exhaust emissions of 103g/km is in the lowest of tax bands for private and business users. Powered by a 1.0-litre three cylinder petrol engine developing 68bhp, the little Citroen is a really fun car to drive – able to zip through the smallest of gaps and fit in the parking
by MIKE TORPEY spots that others pass by. Its acceleration of 0-62 in 13.3 seconds isn’t exactly dynamite but a top speed of 98mph ensures the C1 can hold its own on the motorway. And while the car may be lacking in inches it feels anything but small when you hop behind the wheel. Thanks to a smart design which sees the wheels pushing into each corner this is a full four-seater with lots of headroom and also ample legroom for rear passengers. Its luggage capacity may be geared more towards shopping bags than suitcases but the rear seat backs do fold down to accommodate larger items.
The cabin is both simple and funky with a dozen stowage areas and half moon shape speedo. Elsewhere in the range, Citroen have the light and bright C3 supermini. A feelgood factor is all important when buyers have a top drawer range of cars to choose from – and Citroen got it right from day one the C3. Its star feature is an enormous panoramic windscreen fitted as standard on all but the entry level models. Cheapest in the line-up is the 1.1-litre VT model at £11,290 while cars with the tax busting 99g/km 1.6 diesel engine – capable of averaging 74.3mpg – cost from £15,090 for the Airdream+.
FUNKY AND FUN: Citroen’s C1 offers a great deal for the money. More details from Lookers Citroen, Sefton Street, on 0844 659 2992
Look Great in a
11 WITH FREE INSURANCE
Citroën C1 VTR
ZERO road fund licence • Power steering • Air con • Electric windows
Only £8250 Save £1045
Citroën C3 1.1 VT • £500 DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION
Customer Deposit NIL Citroen Deposit £750.00 Advance £7,500.00 Credit Charge £1,163.30 36 Payments £139.00 Total Amount Payable £9,413.30 1 Final Purchase Payment £3,666.00 9.9% APR Representative Low Monthly Repayments
available on C1 VTR+ and C3 Connexion models only
WAS £11290 NOW £8595
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Customer Deposit £495.00 Citroen Deposit £500.00 Advance £7,600.00 Credit Charge £1,274.92 36 Payments £149.00 Total Amount Payable £9,869.92 1 Final Purchase Payment £5,285.00 Annual Mileage 6000 Excess Milage Charge 2.64p per mile 9.9% APR Representative Low Monthly Repayments
CRÉATIVE TECHNOLOGIE Citroen C1 VTR Price includes delivery to dealer, number plates, 20% VAT, 12 months’ Government road fund licence and £55 first registration fee. Advance rental £139.00 followed by 36 monthly payments of £139.00 plus final payment £3666.00. Finance Facility Fee of £149 will be payable with the advance payment. Citroen C3 VT Price includes delivery to dealer, number plates, 20% VAT, 12 months’ Government road fund licence and £55 first registration fee. Advance rental £149.00 followed by 36 monthly payments of £149.00 plus final payment £5285.00. Finance Facility Fee of £149 will be payable with the advance payment.
LOOKERS CITROËN LIVERPOOL Tel:0844 659 2992 133 Sefton Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L8 4BX
www.lookers.co.uk
Motors by MIKE TORPEY
C
HEVROLET is confident it will offer the best value for money compact MPV in the business when the new Orlando hits the streets from £16,395 in March. The seven-seat people shifter, a serious rival to the likes of Ford’s latest C-MAX and the Volkswagen Touran, is billed as having a spectacular amount of standard equipment. The car comes in three trim levels and there will also be three engines, including a pair of diesels. Even the entry grade Orlando LS features air-con, electronic stability control, follow-me-home lights, electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking, six airbags, three 12v power sockets, tinted glass and an adjustable steering wheel. And a couple of clever innovations are also included in the shape of an extra rear view mirror allowing both driver and front passenger to see all the car’s occupants, and a cubby compartment for the likes of phones and iPods hidden behind the audio fascia. LS models are available with a 141bhp 1.8-litre engine or a new 130bhp 2.0-litre diesel unit, the latter coming with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Extra kit on the LT models comprises rear parking distance sensors, a USB port, 16-inch alloys, climate control, a chrome effect tailgate handle, driver’s armrest, leather covered steering wheel, front fog lights, electric rear windows and an upgraded sound
7
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
★★★★
Ready, Chevy, go! ORLANDO ZOOM: The new Chevrolet Orlando goes on sale next month and will offer serious competition to Ford and VW. More details from Lookers Chevrolet, Derby Road, on 0844 659 6419 system with steering wheel controls. This grade can be specified with the most powerful Orlando engine, a 163bhp 2.0-litre diesel with six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed auto as an option. The range-topping LTZ models, which are also offered with a choice of all three engine options, bring in
larger alloys, automatic cruise control, an electro-chromatic rear view mirror, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, blue ambient panel lighting, a gloss black centre console, power folding door mirrors, a rear cargo net and chrome effect body detailing. Buyers of diesel-engined LTZ models can also specify an optional
£2,000 Executive Pack which adds full leather upholstery, heated front seats, sat-nav and 18-inch alloys. Pound for pound the Orlando certainly punches above its weight and certainly has the pricing and kit to make it a big hit with families. Chevrolet is also hailing its latest high specification Captiva 4x4 as a
budget alternative to the likes of a Range Rover Sport or BMW X5. The range topping seven-seat Captiva LTZ is priced from £28,145 and includes satellite navigation, a parking camera and leather upholstery and is powered by a two-litre diesel developing 150bhp. At the other end of the range lies the Spark supermini, from £6,945.
7-SEATS. MORE MOTABILITY OPTIONS.
DISCOVER THE ALL-NEW CHEVROLET ORLANDO AT LOOKERS LIVERPOOL CHEVROLET.
VISIT OUR
MOTABILITY EVENT 25th - 27th February
CALL NOW TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE
Model shown is an Orlando 2.0 VCDi LTZ
Orlando 2.0 VCDi LS
£349 Advance Payment
The all-new seven seat Chevrolet Orlando takes design and flexibility to an all-new level. Seats up, the Orlando seats seven comfortably. Fold a few seats down, and it’ll also take the dog, five deck chairs, a couple of potted plants, and a week’s worth of shopping. The new Chevrolet Orlando with Motability. Whatever you want it to be. Call now and see how it fits perfectly into your lifestyle.
LOOKERS LIVERPOOL
82 Derby Road Bootle Liverpool Merseyside L20 8LR 0151 933 7575 www.chevrolet.co.uk
Vehicle shown is an Orlando 2.0 VCDi LTZ with metallic paint at an extra cost of £410, and an Executive Pack at an optional cost of £2,000. Under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme for new cars, a driver can get the use of an Orlando 2.0 VCDi LS for 3 years by paying the Fixed Weekly Rentals from the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, with an Advance Payment of £349. For applications approved by 31st March 2011. The facilities offered are for the hire (bailment) of goods. The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement which will be taken in lieu of the monthly rental. Full written details, including terms and conditions, are available on request. All figures correct at time of going to press. Calls may be recorded and monitored for training purposes.
Official Government Environment Data. Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). Orlando range: Urban - 29.1 (9.7) - 35.8 (7.9), Extra-urban - 47.9 (5.9) - 57.7 (4.9), Combined - 38.7 (7.3) - 47.1 (6.0). CO2 emissions 186 - 159g/km.
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Tuesday, February 22, 2011
★★★★
Motors
g n i r p s r o f t e s l l Corsa’s a VAUXHALL’S chic supermini the Corsa has just got a smart new look for springtime thanks to a redesigned nose, fresh headlamps and some vivid new colours. The facelifted models, following on from other top Vauxhall sellers like the Astra and larger Insignia, now feature a chrome signature bar under the bonnet housing the company’s new Griffin badge, and daytime running lights are fitted as standard. Prices for the revamped Corsa are from £9,995 for an Expression 1.0i ecoFLEX three-door model. Higher spec models will be fitted with a five-inch touchscreen display featuring both 2D and 3D maps for the sat-nav system, which is now sited below the central air vents. Outside, the Corsa has new 16-inch
by MIKE TORPEY alloy wheels on both SE and SXi models. Also likely to prove popular is the limited run Corsa Excite – available with three petrol and one diesel engine - which adds Bluetooth, air-con and alloy wheels to the Exclusiv model trim. An exciting addition to the range is the Corsa VXR Blue, a high spec limited edition model with bold styling details, extra kit and striking metallic Arden Blue paint. Dark tinted glass, bespoke interior air vents, 18-inch alloys and Recaro sports seats are all part of the deal. The Blue is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 190bhp and capable of completing 0-62 in just 6.8 seconds.
Lookers Liverpool
STYLE AND POWER: The Vauxhall Corsa VXR Blue. More details from Lookers Liverpool on 0844 659 3944 and Lookers Speke on 0844 659 4434
Lookers Speke
82 Derby Road Liverpool L20 8LR
Speke Hall Road Liverpool L24 9HD
0151 933 7575
0151 486 3668
www.lookers.co.uk/vauxhall
www.lookers.co.uk/vauxhall
Fuel consumption figures mpg (litres/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km). New Corsa Excite 1.0i 12v ecoFLEX. Urban: 44.8 (6.3), Extra-urban: 67.3 (4.2), Combined: 56.5 (5.0). CO2 emissions: 117g/km.
* Offer available to individuals for orders received between 01.02.11 and 31.03.11. Figures based on a non-maintenance contract hire package over 48 months and 6,000 miles per year (max). An advance rental of £567 is payable, then 47 monthly rentals of £189. Rentals and excess charges are based on the current VAT rate. An excess charge of up to 6.38 ppm will be applied for mileage in excess of 6,000 mile p.a. Excess charges also apply if the car is not serviced and maintained in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and returned to Vauxhall Leasing in a condition commensurate with the BVRLA Fair Wear & Tear guidelines for its age and mileage. Package includes R.F.L. and Vauxhall Assistance. Offer subject to availability and status. UK supplied vehicles only. For full specification, details, terms and conditions contact your local retailer. Guarantee and/or indemnity may be required. Applicants must be 18 or over. Details correct at time of publication and may vary, e.g. if list price changes. Personal contract hire by ALD Automotive Ltd., trading as Vauxhall Leasing, Oakwood Park, Lodge Causeway, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3JA.
Motors
by MIKE TORPEY
T
HE name conjures up visions of fashion, film stars and cool Italian chic. And when it comes to image and history there are few marques that can match the iconic badge of Alfa Romeo. One of the most evocative models in the company’s rich heritage is the car that brought Alfa motoring to the masses – the Giulietta, which made its debut back in 1954. To celebrate Alfa’s 100th anniversary the Italians brought Romeo and Giulietta back into each others arms in the shape of a sleek, sexy five-door hatchback. It is a compelling range of cars that has been boosted with the addition of a frugal yet high performing second generation MultiJet diesel engine. The new 2.0 JTDM-2 140bhp is an ideal powerplant for both company car drivers and private owners requiring low fuel consumption and low running costs combined with driving comfort for long trips. An extremely smooth operator, this new engine is equipped with the latest common rail diesel system already present on the 1.6 JTDM-2 (105bhp) and the 2.0-litre (170bhp) power units. This new Giulietta features reduced CO2 emissions and lower fuel consumption of 119g/km and 62.8mpg on average, a top speed of 127mph and acceleration from 0 to 62mph in 9 seconds. The engine is designed for drivers who appreciate excellent throttle response but are also concerned
9
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
★★★★
Style and passion ITALIAN CHIC: The Alfa Romeo Giulietta blends style and performance. More details from Corkills Alfa, Cheshire Oaks, on 08448 159 159
with fuel consumption and running costs. It’s also Euro5 compliant and equipped with Start&Stop as standard. Prices are from £20,750 for the Lusso model and £22,050 for the higher spec Veloce, while the Giulietta range kicks off with the 120bhp 1.4-litre Turismo petrol model at £17,450.
Alfa’s mission for the funky MiTo model was to make it the world’s sportiest compact car, and a distinctive design, sporty cabin and strong engine range make it one of the most desirable offerings on the market. All car makers want stronger performance, lower emissions and better fuel economy – and Alfa’s
owners Fiat have cracked it with a technology called Multiair in the shape of two turbocharged versions of the company’s 1.4-litre petrol engine. In simple terms, more precise control is taken of the quantity and characteristics of the air drawn into the cylinders during the combustion cycle.
The 135bhp version of the unit powers the Lusso-trimmed model at £15,465 and £990 more expensive Veloce version while the flagship £18,365 Cloverleaf – a return for the race-bred badge – boasts 170bhp. Start&Stop also makes its debut on these models and is allied to a gear shift indicator that suggests when to change up or down.
AlFA roMEo. rED 11 EVENT. 17–27 FEBrUArY rED AlErT. introducing red 11. eleven exclusive days featuring the award-winning alfa romeo line-up…and more. More exhilaration. More style. More technology. applies only to new car orders taken between 17–27 February 2011 (retail only), exclusions apply. Visit our website for full terms and conditions.
Corkills Cheshire Oaks, Cheshire Ch65 9LF 08448 159 159 www.corkillsalfaromeo.co.uk
10
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
★★★★
★★★★
Motors
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Another Jazz classic
JAZZ IT UP: The new-look Honda Jazz for 2011 boasts a range of new features. More details from Lightcliffe Honda, Sefton Street, on 0151 709 8261
H
ONDA is about to play some sweet music for small car fans in the shape of a new British-built Jazz
supermini. The award-winning city car will cost from £11,295 for a 1.2-litre petrol powered version and from £13,495 for the 1.4-litre model when it goes on sale in the next few weeks. For a relatively compact offering the Jazz is bursting with big car features like cruise control, a top notch sat-nav system with Bluetooth and automatic climate control. Loyal fans have long made the Jazz the Japanese company’s top seller in the UK and the latest versions are better than ever. Not only can the car comfortably seat four adults – five at a push – but there’s now also a reclining rear seat backrest for added comfort. And the innovative ‘slide, fold and recline’ magic seat arrangement that has proved such a compelling feature of past Jazz models is retained, meaning there’s luggage capacity of up to 1,320 litres. A wide opening tailgate aids
by MIKE TORPEY
access and folding the seats is a simple, quick exercise. Styling-wise, the new Jazz heralds cosmetic changes to the lights and bumpers while an upgrade to the suspension has resulted in improved handling and a more refined ride. Back in the Jazz line-up due to public demand is a model with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), a set-up that was dropped three years ago in favour of a semi-auto system. It costs an extra £1,000, is smoother than its predecessor the i-Shift and boasts lower CO2 emissions of 125g/km. The biggest news within the facelifted range though is the arrival of a Jazz Hybrid, that’s not only the cheapest car of its type in Britain but also undercuts its nearest rival by £3,000. With an average economy figure of 62.8 miles per gallon, the petrol-electric Jazz is also fitted with the seven-speed CVT system. Its emissions of 104g/km put the
hybrid into a low tax bracket, meaning £10 a year for private buyers after a tax-free first year and 10 per cent for business users. The hybrid is powered by the same 87bhp 1.3-litre petrol engine fitted to the Honda Insight plus a 14bhp electric motor. Top speed is 109mph and acceleration 0-62 in 12.1 seconds, and the gears can be changed manually via steering wheel-mounted paddles. There’s also a choice of eco or sport modes plus some clever instruments – in addition to power flow meters and gauges that show when the battery is recharging there’s also a speedo backlight that changes colour depending on driving technique. Proceed in an economical manner and the light glows green, but heavy revving turns it blue then a darker blue the more you floor the throttle. And another display shows a mini woodland in which the more trees that pop-up, the better your driving efficiency. Also proving popular with Honda fans is another hybrid in the shape of the sleek-looking CR-Z coupe, described by the Japanese manufacturer as ‘an urban street
racer with a conscience’. It’s certainly a model that stands out from the crowd and anyone who remembers the CRX from the 1980s with its shallow raked roofline and split level rear glass hatch will see the resemblance. And that’s absolutely intentional, because Honda planned the CR-Z as a 21st Century re-thinking of that car. CR-Z is basically a compact two plus two coupe with some serious low-slung elegance and comes in three trim grades – S, Sport and GT – with prices from £17,360. It is powered by Honda’s petrol-electric IMA system – a 1.5-litre engine boosted by an electric motor, the engine producing 114bhp and motor 14bhp. Both the power and torque come from way down the rev range – between 1,000 and 1,500rpm – so initial acceleration is stronger, ideal for stop/start driving in urban conditions and hence the street racer link. The upshot is a 0-62mph time of 9.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 124mph. More important for a car with sporty pretensions, the hybrid system and lightweight construction combine with stop-start technology to allow an
average fuel return of 56.4 miles per gallon and CO2 emissions of 117g/km. That keeps the Honda below the 120g/km level and into the £35 a year road tax band. A low driving position and short shift six-speed manual gearbox add to the on-road experience and a 3-Mode Drive System offers a choice of different settings – Normal, Sport and Econ. As its name suggests, Econ mode prioritises fuel economy while Normal provides a balance between performance, economy and emissions. Switch between the two and you hardly notice any change. Only when the Sport button is engaged do you really feel a difference as the steering weights up, the throttle response sharpens and the electric motor gives more assistance. The CR-Z really impresses in this mode and offers something different – great looks, eco awareness, an engaging drive and a the performance you don’t expect from a hybrid. Honda is also currently pushing to make new car ownership more affordable by adding three years free servicing plus a range finance options to selected new cars until the end of next month.
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ECHO Motors All the latest motoring news, road tests and first drives of new models in ECHO Motors, inside your Liverpool ECHO every Friday