Fleet Car Volume 11 No. 3

IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

Volume 11. No. 3. Winter 2013

SANTÉ CITROËN C4 PICASSO! INTERVIEW: • Yann Chabert, Fiat Auto Group Ireland FEATURE: Autostyle 2013 CONTENDERS: Continental Irish Car of the Year 2014 Categories LAUNCH PAD: Opel, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, Suzuki, Nissan, Alfa, Mazda, Audi

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1 Boroscope images 2 DISI Engine Test

from petrol vehicle testing with European engines and European fuels, 2012

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Contents Winter 2013 Fleet Car Magazine D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 Email: enquiries@fleet.ie ISSN: 1649-9433 www.fleetcar.ie

www.fleetcar.ie | 3

4 News • Citroën C4 Picasso wins Continental Irish Car of the Year 2014 • Skoda generates charity funding on economy run • Leasing business declines • First Drive of BMW i3 in London plus Junction Box

18 Launch Pad III • Alfa Mito & Giulietta • Mazda 3 • Audi A8

6 Interview with Yann Chabert, Country Director, Fiat Auto Group Ireland

26 Test BMW 518d

20 Contenders Shortlisted cars in each category Continental Irish Car of the Year 2014

for

8 Feature Autostyle Design Competition 2013, Italy

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie Deputy Editor: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

10 Launch Pad I • Opel Insignia • Honda CR-V • MercedesBenz S-Class

Contributors: Gerry Murphy, Howard Knott Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Paul Sherwood, Newspress, Inpho, Autostyle

P8

12 Report Automotive Technology Safety or Distraction

Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey, Paula Mullarkey

14 Direction Road Safety Newsletter

Advertising: Mary Morrissey Design: Eamon Wynne

16 Launch Pad II • Ford Tourneo Connect • Suzuki SX4 S-Cross • Nissan Note & Qashqai Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ Fleet Maritime are published by JJDS Publications Ltd. Registered Office: D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Co. Reg. 368767 Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Disclaimer: Fleet Car Magazine management can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributed articles or statements appearing in this magazine and any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Fleet Transport management, save where otherwise indicated. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this

P10 publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, Editors or publishers.

The Editor reserves the right to make publishing decisions on any advertisements or editorial article submitted to the magazine and to refuse publication or to edit any editorial material as seems appropriate to him. Professional legal advice should always be sought in relation to any specific matter.

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4 | NEWS I

Citroën C4 Picasso crowned Continental Irish Car of the Year 2014

T

o unanimous applause the new Citroën C4 Picasso was announced Continental Irish Car of the Year for 2014 by the Irish Motoring Writers Association (IMWA).

The winner of the overall title was revealed at an awards ceremony in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dublin on the 21st November compered by RTE TV personality and Sunday Independent Columnist Brendan O’Connor.

Interestingly, the new Citroën C4 Picasso received 337 votes in total, putting it just ahead of the VW Golf (364 votes) which competed in the same Compact Family Car Class, with the Mazda 6 on 327 votes in third place – the Family Car winner.

It is the third time that Citroën has taken the overall Continental Irish Car of the Year title, after the Citroën Xsara (1998) and the Citroën C5 (2009).

credit to everyone connected with Citroën.”

In addition to the overall award, five other category winners were also announced:

Continental Irish Small Car of the Year Peugeot 2008 Irish Compact Family Car of the Year Citroën C4 Picasso Irish Family Car of the Year Mazda6 Irish Executive/Luxury Car of the Year Range Rover Irish Performance Car of the Year Volkswagen Golf GTI

Goodyear Dunlop UK & Ireland appoints new Director of Consumer Tyres Nick Harley, previously Sales Director at BP Castrol Lubricants, has joined Goodyear Dunlop UK & Ireland as Director, Consumer Tyres. On joining Goodyear Dunlop Harley said: “This role gives me the perfect platform to apply my key client, business development and management skills in a fast-paced, competitive environment. I’m excited to join a fantastic team, renowned for its strengths in customer service, and backed by a market-leading, award winning product portfolio.”

Members of the IMWA awarded their votes after appraising all 51 original contenders on the basis of key criteria including safety, equipment level, fuel economy, comfort, practicality, ride and road-holding.

The coveted trophy was presented to Frederic Soulier, Managing Director of Citroën Ireland,

by Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland, who commented: “The Citroën C4 Picasso is an outstanding car and a worthy winner of our main award. It combines excellent driving qualities with a range of truly impressive technologies, and is a

Citroën C4 Picasso voted Continental Irish Car of the Year 2014 – pictured (l to r): Tom Dennigan, Continental Tyres Ireland; Frederic Soulier, Managing Director, Citroën Motors Ireland; Gerry Murphy, Chairman, IMWA and model Adrienne Murphy.

Škoda’s Petrol Economy Power!

P

etrol power is back according to a group of motoring journalists who went headto-head in a fuel economy challenge organised by Škoda Ireland. As well as proving that petrol engines can be just as economical to run as diesel for certain conditions, four designated charities benefited from the ‘fun run’ to the tune of €2,500.

Four t eams set off from The Gibson Hotel in Dublin before travelling towards Kells, Lakeside Manor outside Virginia, on to Longford and back to Dublin on a mixture of primary, secondary and motorway routes comprising 333km, which tested the cars’ fuel-sipping ability. The winning team consisted of Stephen Watson from Torque.ie, Cathal Doyle from Fleet Car & The Irish Sun, TV3's The Driving Seat presenter Aidan Timmons and Sean Creedon (Dublin People & Cork News). On average, across four Škoda cars (Fabia 1.2 HTP, Octavia 1.2 TSI, Citigo 1.0 MPI and Rapid Spaceback 1.2 TSI) and four legs they averaged 4.33 l/100km (63.2mpg), just ahead of their nearest competitors.

As a result the Irish Cancer Society, received €1,000 on

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

behalf of Škoda Ireland. Runners up donations of €750 were also made to The Irish Motor Neuron Disease Association, €500 to Irish Autism Action and €250 to Dog’s Trust.

Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing at Škoda Ireland explained the thinking behind the challenge, “The modern petrol engine is more economical and more frugal than ever before and with prices for some of our petrol engine models costing in some cases, thousands less than their diesel equivalents, it is worth noting that it can take up to 10-years of ownership to claw back the difference in price. We wanted to show that petrol engine cars are now very economical so we set the motoring journalists a challenge.”

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Question: Mazda is the title sponsor of Connacht Rugby? True or False?

NEWS II | 5

Demand for leasing down to date this year but upturn predicted New Car Sales down 4% across EU Although demand for new cars in September 2013 across the European Union was up 5.4%, the number of new registrations declined by 3.9% compared to the fi rst 9 months of 2012. Total September 1,159m units. Total Q3 2013 – 9m units.

Down to Earth for Enterprise Cork’s Down2Earth Materials that supplies compostable products and packaging to the Irish Food and Catering industries has teamed up with Enterprise Rent-A-Car to help it with its transport needs. Renting cars from Enterprise supports the company’s environmental principles due to the fact that the newer cars that it rents are more energy efficient. It also saves Down2Earth Materials in terms of time and costs that are involved in operating and maintaining an aging car fleet.

Pictured are John Lynch (Sales Manager and Recycling Consultant in Down2Earth Materials) and Patrick Reynolds (National Sales Manager in Enterprise Rent-a-Car)

Fiat Completes VM Motori Acquisition Fiat Auto Group, the majority shareholder of Chrysler announced last month that it has completed the purchase of the remaining 50% of Italian diesel manufacturer VM Motori S.p.A. from General Motors for an estimated €34.1 million. Fiat originally acquired the fi rst 50% of VM over 3 years ago from the Penske Corporation.

Based in Cento, Italy, VM, which now comes under Fiat Powertrain Technology, manufactures engines used by many car and commercial vehicle brands all over the world. Annual production is approximately 90,000 engines.

L

easeurope’s half year report from its member organisations reveals that leasing volumes across Europe were down slightly (0.9%) compared to the same period a year ago. The trade association representing the European leasing and automotive rental industries stated that although vehicle leasing grew by 3.7% over that period, equipment leasing volumes fell by 7.1%. There was also some divergence in terms of regional performance, as most national markets experienced a downturn in equipment leasing volumes. Among the notable exceptions were the UK and some Scandinavian and Eastern European countries.

Short term car rental numbers are not included in this review. According to Mike Cobb at Leasing Life, some of the major European markets have reported a decline in new deals with France down almost 7%. Leaseurope’s number 1 member Germany was overtaken by the UK for the second time in the fi rst six months of 2013 - €22bn compared to €19.8bn.

Th is ‘win’ by the UK was down to the 15.5% increase in deals while Germany’s market in this sector was down 2.2%.

Interestingly, Norway recorded the most consistent growth with an increase of almost 10% in equipment finance with contracts secured up to €1.1bn while Spain, Italy and Portugal suffered double digit drops to extend their collective fall out from the Eurozone crisis.

“2013 will be a year of healthier growth,” predicts Leaseurope’s Jurgita Bucyte, Adviser in Statistics and Economic Affairs, “as fi rms will no longer postpone asset replacements. Together with an increase in business confidence, this bodes well for the European leasing industry.”

First Drive: BMW i3

B

MW hasn’t just dipped its toe into the tepid pool of the electric car, it has jumped in with two feet. London was the venue for the official launch of BMW’s fi rst all-electric car, the BMW i3 BEV and its range extended version, the i3 REX. As one of the world’s mega cities, London proved to be the ideal place for this car to be instantly economical and a practical car over shorter distances. With congestion charges for petrol and diesel being waived for electric vehicles and other incentives for buyers, Lond on and other cities of similar size are the natural home of the i3 electric car.

BMW’s range extended version, the i3 REX is fitted with a 650 cc two-cylinder engine that comes into play as a charger of the batteries; it doesn’t actually drive the wheels but maintains the battery charge for a further 300 km. Without the range extender the electric only car will travel between 160 and 180 km on a full charge.

a Net price of €34,010 for the BEV and €41,040 for the REX. In Ireland there is only one dedicated BMW dealer to sell and service the new i3. Joe Duff y Motors in Dublin is that retailer for now. Others may be added later if the demand warrants it.

BMW expects that most buyers will opt to buy the i3 through BMW’s monthly finance package.

Customers entering into an agreement for an all-electrically powered BMW i3 can embark on a world of electric motoring by signing up to a 36 month Personal Contract Hire, paying an initial €5,999 deposit (which includes up to €10,000 contribution from VRT rebate and SEAI grant) followed by monthly payments of €495 and contract mileage of 36,000 kms.

Gerry Murphy

The new i3 in Ireland is priced at €44,010 for the electric (BEV) model and €48,540 for the range extender (REX) model. These are gross prices as electric cars get a VRT refund of €5,000 for the all electric and €2,500 for the range extender.

There is also another €5,000 grant from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) for both models giving www.fleetcar.ie

6 | INTERVIEW

One-to-One with Yann Chabert, Fiat Ireland Country Manager with Cathal Doyle cathal@fleet.ie

I

t has been a difficult period for Fiat in Ireland but things are looking up as the brand rolls out its new range of family-sized cars, the 500L, 500L Trekking and 500L MPW. Earlier this summer the company appointed Frenchman Yann Chabert as Country Manager for Ireland. Fleet Car’s Cathal Doyle caught up with him recently to fi nd out his plans for the brand.

CD: Firstly, you’re very welcome to Ireland in your new role as Country Manager for Fiat Chrysler. What are your thoughts on where Fiat is currently positioned in Ireland, and what are your immediate objectives for the brand?

YC: The plan for Fiat as of now is to introduce the 500L family. We launched the 500L in June, we introduced the 500L Trekking in September, and in the beginning of October we introduced the 7 seat 500L MPW. So defi nitely the 500 and 500L markets are the key targets for Fiat to develop in terms of sales.

CD: You would appear to be looking to attract a new type of customer with the broader 500L family. What target market are you looking at?

YC: The target market is prett y simple when you see the size of the car. It is defi nitely the family. We are talking here about a real family car with a lot of capability while keeping the coolness of the 500.

CD: It has been a difficult time for Fiat in Ireland in recent years. What are you hoping to achieve as regards market share in the coming years?

YC: It is true that we have been losing market share, but if we look at the performance of the last quarter our figures were up. There’s big commitment for the future, for sure Fiat is here in Ireland to play for success, and we want to play for success with our network. Th is is the target we have in the short-term.

CD: Talking about your dealer network, there are currently gaps in your coverage throughout the country. What steps are you taking to address that?

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

YC: Today we have prett y wide coverage in Dublin and in the Cork area, which are the two main areas in Ireland. We still have no appointment in Galway so for sure we are looking mid-term to cover this, but this will be as a second step. Today what is important is to work with our [existing] network to develop sales.

CD: With the new 500L family, do you see these cars appealing to the fleet market? Any plans to target this sector?

YC: Yes, for sure, because previously we didn’t have perhaps the right line-up to be in the fleet market. With the 500L family I think now we have some potential, and we are going to investigate that potential with the fleet market.

CD: You are also responsible for Alfa Romeo and Chrysler-Jeep in Ireland. What plans do you have for these brands?

YC: Since I arrived in July I have been focusing mainly on Fiat, but for Alfa Romeo we are going to be introducing in Q1 2014 the new Giuliett a and new Mito. For Chrysler-Jeep, there is a clear plan for Jeep - we introduced the all-new Grand Cherokee this year and in Spring next year we will introduce the new Cherokee, and for sure there is more to come very soon.

CD: What sort of promotional plans do you have for the brands here?

YC: We organized with the dealer network a sales event from November 8th to 18th with special conditions for deals made for delivery in Q1 2014. We have some fi nance packages including 0% fi nance but we have also a 5.9% Hire Purchase over 60 months. Also we have been developing some specific offers for loyal customers who have owned Fiats. They can avail of some special conditions to move to a new Fiat.

8 | FEATURE

‘When Design is Art’

Autostyle Design Competition 2013

I

t’s Autumn so it’s time for the annual Autostyle Design Competition held at the classic setting of the nineteenth century Villa di Bagno, Porto Mantovano, Mantua, Italy. The 2013 running of the international contest that brings together the best of young design talent marks its tenth edition.

On this occasion, Roberto Artioli, from Berman S.p.A. and founder of the Autostyle welcomed twelve young designer fi nalists who were asked to submit and elaborate “Special Versions” based on Citroën, Suzuki, Audi, Land Rover and Maserati models.

The two day event was opened by the now

Best Urban Car/SUV: Winner:

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

traditional workshop sessions on how new models are created in Design Centres of today starting with that of Giovanni Ribotta illustrating the re-birth of the Maserati Ghibli after the Quatt roporte. Representing Volvo, Robin Page and Jonathan Disley, Head of Interior & Exterior Design respectively, jointly revealed the turning point of Scandinavian car design through the style of the Coupé Concept.

Alfa Romeo’s latest creation the 4C, assembled at the Maserati plant in Modena was explained in detail by Alessandro Maccolini while his counterpart at Ferrari, Flavio Manzoni presented La Ferrari, the new limited edition

Special Version Suzuki SX4 Stefano Airoldi (Italy, 21), Issam, Modena, Italy

Best Sports Car: Winner:

of the Prancing Horse with its hand-laminated carbon fibre chassis.

At the Live Design Show, the young designers put forward virtual proposals for the Fiat 500L and Peugeot 2008 with their sketches directly projected on the models exhibited in the garden of the Villa.

The Evaluation Committee made up of Fulvio Cinti (Auto & Design), Alessandro Maccolini, Klemens Rossnagel (Audi), Flavio Manzoni (Ferrari), Claudio Messale (Ford), Roberto Giolito (Fiat), Anna Costamagna (PSA), Robin Page and Massimo Grandi (Firenze University) assigned the following awards:-

Special Version Land Rover Defender DC100 Kevin Bouvier (France, 23), Strate College, France

FEATURE | 9

Virtual Versions: Winner:

(Fiat 500L and Peugeot 2008) Jennifer Andriamamonjy (France, 22), Creapole Esdi, France

The beautiful surroundings were enhanced even further with an exhibition of the 20 most significant new models of 2013 such as the Alfa 4C, Audi Crosslane, Bentley Flying Spur, LaFerrari, Jaguar F-Type, Maserati Ghibli, Mercedes-Benz CLA and Volvo Concept CoupĂŠ.

Creativity Award (1):

Special Version Land Rover Defender DC100 Mario Giuseppe, Antonioli, (Italy, 24) (middle)

Creativity Award (2): Special Version Suzuki SX4 Politecnico di Milano, Italy Winner: Francesco Binaggia (Italy, 23), RCA Royal College of Art, London

Winner:

Stefano Airoldi receiving his award from Flavio Manzoni, Ferrari

Speakers, Committ ee and Finalists Autostyle 2013

Halls Villa

www.fleetcar.ie

10 | LAUNCH PAD I

Latest Insignia keeps Opel to the fore

O

pel has launched a sig n i f ica nt ly rev ised Insignia, with a host of updates to keep the D-segment fleet favourite at the top of the pile.

New engines spearhead the changes, notably a benchmark-sett ing 140PS 2-litre diesel which is expected to become the volume seller here.

Replacing the 130PS powerplant, it returns fuel consumption figures of up to 3.7 l/100km (76 mpg) and CO 2 emissions of 99 g/km. Initial impressions were of a quiet and refined unit, offering plenty of power across the rev range. There’s also a more powerful 163PS 2-litre diesel, up 3PS from before.

Petrol hasn’t been forgotten – there’s a new impressive 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine offering with 170PS. A genuine alternative

help the car to achieve a Cd rating of 0.25 (for the hatchback), a class leading aerodynamic figure.

to the diesel offerings with a blend of fuel economy and performance, it joins the existing 1.4 Turbo 140PS petrol unit.

Inside the big change is to the dash, with less buttons than before, and an intuitive IntelliLink infotainment system. This incorporates a touchpad system located near the gearstick that uses multi-finger swipe controls.

Five trim levels are offered for the Irish market. Prices start at €24,995 for the four door 1.4 Turbo in S trim, with the similarly specified 140PS diesel costing €26,995. Five door versions cost an extra €600 and Sports Tourer models an extra €1,800 over the saloon prices.

Cathal Doyle

Revisions to exterior bodywork and lights not only keep the Insignia fresh looking but also

Honda CR-V – Big Car Experience: Small Car Economy

F

ollowing the success of the new 1.6 litre i-DTEC diesel engine fitted to the Civic, Universal Honda (Ireland) has now added this class-leading fuel efficient ‘Earth Dreams Technology’ to its CR-V Sports Utility. “We have something special here,” stated Frank Kennedy, Sales & Marketing Director. “We are very pleased to be introducing this engine to the CR-V. The result is a large family SUV with the fuel economy of a Supermini, it is also our fi rst two-wheel-drive CR-V in Ireland.”

With this lower output engine, apart from the reduced fuel consumption the cost of purchase

still achieved a 5-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests (under new more stringent rules). Available in three trim levels SE/ES and ES Sport, the latter costing €37,495, the CR-V is a well equipped full sized Sports Utility (SUV) and now competes strongly against the Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota RAV4, Ford Kuga, etc.

has been lowered by €7,000 compared to the 2.2 i-DTEC AWD and is now priced at €31,995. In addition, the 1.6 i-DEC CR-V is now rated in Road Tax Band A4 (€200 vs €390 per annum). It is lighter all round, but

“In the past decade, the share of SUV sales has tripled from 6% to 18%,” said Frank. “Today, the CR-V is cheaper, bigger, safer and more highly equipped, significantly more fuel efficient and much cheaper to run and tax,” he added.

Jarlath Sweeney

New Mercedes-Benz S-Class raises the bar

I

n taking all the limelight at the recent Frankfurt Motor Show, with four versions of the new MercedesBenz S-Class launched, the Daimler fl agship range is once again sett ing the benchmark for the automotive industry.

With its array of technical advancements, the new S-Class which has gone on sale here, is seen by Mercedes-Benz as another step forward towards the development of a car capable of being driven without human intervention.

One feature that demonstrates this better perhaps than any other is Distronic Plus with Stop & Go Pilot – a personal steering and tailback assistant that operates at speeds up to 60km/h to deliver the three-fold benefit of reducing rear-end collisions, lowering fuel consumption and keeping a driver’s blood pressure under control. It works by FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

starting price of €98,255 for the S350 BlueTec diesel (Euro 6) is - 4% or €4,000 less than the previous entry level model.

automatically ensuring that the car follows the vehicle in front – braking, accelerating, even steering autonomously so the driver can relax in traffic jams and other slow-moving conditions. More sleeker in appearance and more roomy and plush inside, the new S-Class comes at a lower price than here-to-fore. Its

There will also be two hybrid versions – one petrol, one diesel and at the upper level a plug-in Hybrid. Interestingly, to meet the said Euro 6 diesel engine emission legislation, AdBlue, the liquid urea required for the fi lterisation system is used (as per trucks/buses since Euro 4), so dealers will have to educate owners of its usage. In addition, the new S-Class features a uniquely plastic double moulded fuel tank produced by American company, T1 Automotive.

Jarlath Sweeney

12 | REPORT

Is Automotive Technology a driver to safety or to distraction?

T

he Irish Motoring Writers Association’s (IMWA) Seminar posed the above question at its 2013 Automotive Forum held at the RDS in Dublin recently. The event was attended not only by journalists working in the automotive sector but also by road safety experts. Following the two keynote presentations there was lively debate which sought to tease out the limits on the use of technology to deliver even more safety for drivers and other road users. The event sponsored by Continental Tyres and its representative, Tom Dennigan, described the event as “a valuable meeeting that helps to spread knowledge and promote discussion in relating to motoring and its wider implications for our society.”

In his introduction of the two principle speakers, Pim van der Jagt, who is Managing Director of Ford of Europe’s Aachen based Research Centre, and Natasha Merat, Associate Professor at the University of Leeds based Institute for Transport Studies, IMWA Chairman, Gerry Murphy suggested that, to answer the question that was our point of departure for the Forum, “I think that the driver is ultimately responsible for ensuring he or she manages and limits the distraction potential of technology and any other external influences that would divert their attention from the important task at hand”.

However, it became clear as both presentations went along that fi nding this balance between providing information and other technology that is intended to reduce the risk of accident and bring down driver stress, and, literally, taking the driver’s eye off the road is no easy matter. In an aside to his formal text Pim van der Jagt raised another issue, that the speed of development of GPS, Cloud and other technology that is being delivered by the IT and mobile phone industries is hugely quicker than the development of new vehicles. New generation phones can appear at six monthly intervals, a new car development could take seven years. Thus, the technology platform of the car is always going to be lagging behind the IT equipment available. He commented on how blasé we have become about automotive technology and, in particular, the fact that now even some of the smallest cars have technologies that up to a couple of years ago could only be enjoyed by a small number of drivers as they were the preserve of the more expensive luxury brands. He gave an example of the Ford Focus which, thanks to Active Park Assist technology, can park itself into a tight parking spot with minimal input from the driver.

He went on to say; “In terms of new technologies that motorists will see in the near term, we will roll out a range of services based on two-way vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication systems that will enable cars to communicate with each other about driving and traffic conditions. Using a dedicated short-range communications network the system will also be able to communicate with similarly equipped vehicles that are out of the driver’s line of sight. For example, if a car suddenly performs an emergency stop around a corner, cars coming behind could be advised in good time so that they can adapt their speed before they arrive at the scene.”

Van der Jagt went on to talk about the impending arrival of vehicle-toinfrastructure (VTI) technology. This will enable cars to communicate with the road infrastructures and traffic management systems so as to make journeys as smooth as possible, and reducing emissions and fuel consumption.

Pim van der Jagt; Managing Director of Ford of Europe’s Aachen based Research Centre

Natasha Merat; Associate Professor at the University of Leeds based Institute for Transport Studies

decades, but we need to be careful that we don’t undo some of that progress by providing a dangerous level of information overload through the addition of a broad range of ‘attention grabbing’ technologies inside the car” She went on, “We know that younger, inexperienced drivers are particularly prone to distractions while driving, whether they come from in-car distractions or external influences.” The distraction level can increase significantly once other impairments come into play. Of these, activity involving use of mobile phone scores very highly.

In the discussion which concluded the event, great concern was expressed about the concept that technology can lull the driver into a false sense of security and seriously reduce their ability to react to danger.

Pictured (l-r) Pim van der Jagt, Managing Director, Ford of Europe’s Aachen based Research Centre; Natasha Merat, Associate Professor at the University of Leeds based Institute for Transport Studies, Gerry Murphy, IMWA Chairman and Tom Dennigan, Continental Tyres.

Following studies done at the Institute for Transport Studies, Dr. Natasha Merat said: “without a doubt technology has contributed hugely to strides in improving road safety over the last number of FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

Text: Howard Knott - howard@fleet.ie

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14 | DIRECTION

Road Safety Newsletter

Drug Alert the Simple DIY Test

A

s fleet operators in the UK prepare for new laws for drug-driving, Drug Alert, a simple DIY urine/saliva Drug Test that is easy to use as a home-testing kit has now become available from Australian company - http:// drugalert.com.au These kits test for drug use across marijuana, street drugs and prescription drugs. Tests are 99% accurate and use the same technology as that found in professional screen laboratories without the need to send them away to obtain results.

The innovative technology is non-invasive, can detect up to 12 illicit and prescription drugs, is easy to use and is CE approved.

“The new law on drug testing can’t come in soon enough, but for many, it’s already too late,” stated ITV’s Tonight programme on 11 November last, which highlighted the stark differences between the UK’s outdated approach in comparison with Germany, where roadside tests lead to 30,000 drug-driving prosecutions a year.

However, new laws are being introduced in the UK that start the process of bringing drug-driving legislation more in line with drink-driving.

Martin Geissler, ITV News Correspondent said in the Tonight programme, aired on 14 November, “We’re told a new law will come into effect within a year which will bring drug driving into line with drink driving. In the coming weeks Police Forces in the UK will be given roadside testing kits to try out.” Mr Taylor urges fleet operators that “Now is the time to prepare your drivers for the changes to the law – help make them riskaware and implement a policy that includes drug testing before it is tragically ‘too late’. A well considered, legally correct and properly implemented policy protects not only an employer but also their employees, and provides reassurance that the testing is being carried out legitimately."

The Tonight programme ended with a powerful message, meeting Janice, the mother of a young woman who died after a head-on collision with a driver high on drugs: “The new law can’t come soon enough, but for Janice, and many others like her, it’s already far too late.”

Drug Alert is being promoted for use in companies, trade and service industries who wish to crack down on the use of illicit drugs around the work place or ensure safety if staff have perhaps used drugs out of office hours.

Drug Alert tests have also been used by people who work in fields where it is dangerous to have drugs in your system, and although we are not encouraging people in the use of drugs - it is especially important that they are aware of what is in their system if working/ operating heavy machinery and/ or putting themselves and others lives at risk.

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

Volume 4, No. 2 Winter 2013

Night Vision

D

riving is statistically the most dangerous activity undertaken at work and driving during hours of darkness carries its own specific risks. With the clocks changing recently, Specsavers Corporate Eyecare is providing employers and their employees with guidance on driving at night.

The Health & Safety Authority makes it clear that the employer has a responsibility towards any employee who drives in the course of their work.

It is advisable, therefore, for employers to establish a Safe Driving policy and to ensure this includes specific information on driving at night.

“Basic considerations, like planning a journey and checking the route beforehand, can improve a driver’s safety. Simply trying to time meetings for earlier in the day to avoid driving after dark, will have a positive influence.

Adequate eyesight and regular eyecare are of course prerequisites for all drivers but it is amazing how often this aspect is neglected,’’ explained Abby Pringle, Corporate Sales & Account Adviser for Specsavers Corporate Eyecare in the Republic of Ireland.

Night-driving include:

considerations

See and be seen - Headlights not only enable the driver to see to drive at night, but also allow other road users to see you. If in doubt, put your lights on. Do not wait for it to get dark, or for the streetlights to come on. If the light levels fall at any time, be it dusk or due to dark rain clouds, turn on your headlights.

Reflections - Turn off interior lights and, if possible, dim the dashboard lights. Th is will help to reduce any reflections that can draw the eye and cause a distraction.

Glare - Individual light sources are more intense at night. Try not to stare at oncoming lights. If you are having difficulty seeing, pull over and stop. If the glare from headlights is a significant or increasing problem, visit your optician for a thorough eye

examination, as this is sometimes an indication of cataracts or other medical conditions.

Glasses – Lenses with an anti-reflective coating are the best option at night for anyone who requires glasses to drive. This helps to reduce glare by minimising the reflections within the lenses.

Eyecare – Ensuring you have adequate eyesight, or the right prescription lenses to correct poor eyesight, is essential for driving. Regular eyecare and vision tests are vital as eyesight can deteriorate gradually, which may mean the individual is unaware that their vision is impaired. It is recommended that eye tests should be carried out every two years for most people and annually for anyone over 60.

Rural roads - Drive at a speed that would enable you to stop within the distance of your headlights. As a very rough estimate, the average set of headlights will enable approximately 30 metres of visibility on the dipped setting. The stopping distance for a car travelling at 64km/h is 36 metres, making a speed of 64km/h too fast, using dipped beams, on most rural roads.

Urban roads – Use dipped headlights in built-up areas where street lighting is provided. Do not be afraid to travel well below the speed limit for the road if the area is busy or badly lit.

Full beam - To avoid dazzling, headlights should be dipped when another road user is approaching.

Maintenance - Basic car maintenance can help with vision at night. Clean your headlights and windscreen regularly, keep windscreen washer topped up and keep a set of spare light bulbs in your car.

Tiredness The biggest danger when driving at night is tiredness. Do not ignore the signs. Stop as soon as possible and take a break. Ultimately, if you feel tired, find somewhere safe to stop overnight.

DIRECTION | 15

Confidence and Car Control with BMW Winter Driver Training Programme •

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If you have answered no to any of these questions, you will benefit from the BMW Winter Driver Training Programme, which is delivered by Rally School Ireland. The programme combines practical advice with

invaluable driving experience on our Winter Driver Training circuit. The circuit replicate surban and winding rural roads in wet, icy and snowy conditions.

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Autonomous Emergency Braking Systems

E

uro NCAP has released the first results of rear-end crash avoidance systems tested against the upcoming 2014 rating protocol. Eight vehicles have been compared with respect to their performance on the test track.

Real world claims data suggests that Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) systems can reduce rear-end crashes by one quarter or more and lead to a significant reduction of injuries. As from January 2014, Euro NCAP will in its rating scheme give credit to vehicle manufacturers that equip their models with robust forward collision warning and/or automatic braking technology.

The technologies available on the market today can be divided into groups based on the type of crash they are designed to mitigate. ‘AEB City’ works at low driving speeds and targets reduction in rear end shunts often associated with whiplash neck injuries. ‘Inter-Urban AEB’ works at higher speeds and targets fatal and serious injury crashes that may be caused by driver inattentiveness or distraction. Euro NCAP tests both types of systems and scores them between 0-3 points, which translates to Good, Adequate or Marginal.

Cars tend to travel at closer distance in slow traffic which minimizes the driver’s ability to avoid a crash at the last minute. As a result Euro NCAP focuses on the automatic braking function in its AEB City tests up to 50 km/h.

Euro NCAP tested low speed AEB City system performance on 6 vehicles: Mercedes-Benz E-Class - PRE-SAFE Brake Good. Volvo V40 - City Safety & Collision Warning with Full Auto-Brake - Good.

Mitsubishi Outlander - Forward Collision Mitigation - Good. Volvo XC60 - City Safety Adequate. Fiat 500L - City Brake Control -

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Adequate. Ford Focus - Active City Stop Adequate.

points) and on the Honda Civic as Marginal (0.44 points).

In this test, top marks were earned by PRESAFE Brake (3 points) on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class; City Safety & Collision Warning with Full Auto-Brake (2.9 points) on the Volvo V40, and Forward Collision Mitigation on the Mitsubishi Outlander (2.1 points); whereas the systems on the Volvo XC60 (1.9 points), Fiat 500L (1.8 points) and Ford Focus (1.7 points) were rated as Adequate.

In addition to the AEB tests, Euro NCAP has repeated the AEB Fitment survey of 2012 to see how AEB fitment has evolved in Europe.

Manufacturers who had a system available last year continue to do so in 2013 and the rates of fitment have, in general, shown a modest increase over the last year. Unfortunately, most car makers still do not offer crash avoidance systems on any of their models.

At higher driving speeds, there is often sufficient time for the driver to take action to avoid the crash. Therefore AEB Inter-Urban systems often provide a Forward Collision Warning function with enhanced braking performance, which can be complemented with an automatic brake function in case the driver does not respond to the warning. Euro NCAP assesses the system performance both where the driver brakes and where there is no reaction to the warning for their ability to avoid and mitigate crashes up to speeds of 80 km/h. The 5 vehicles tested for AEB Interurban were:

“With the limited number of systems available and tested, we can already see real differences in their performance and expected real world benefit. However we compliment the manufacturers of the systems in today’s launch, whether the system scored good, adequate or marginal, for already offering this technology onto their cars and hope that our results will help them to further develop their systems”, stated Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class - PRE-SAFE Brake - Good. Volvo V40 - City Safety & Collision Warning with Full Auto-Brake Good. Volkswagen Golf VII - Front Assist Good. Mitsubishi Outlander - Forward Collision Mitigation - Adequate. Honda Civic - Collision Mitigation Brake System Adequate.

The results in this test showed bigger differences between systems. The three best-scoring systems were: PRE-SAFE Brake (2.7 points) on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, City Safety & Collision Warning with Full Auto-Brake (2.6 points) on the Volvo V40 and Front Assist (2.2 points) on the VW Golf. The systems on the Mitsubishi Outlander rated as Adequate (1.9

Euro NCAP’s decision to include AEB in the rating reflects a growing awareness of the potential of these active safety systems and car makers are now clearly challenged to raise the availability and performance of AEB on new car models. The introduction of AEB along with Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist technology will define Euro NCAP’s ‘Year of Active Safety’ in 2014.

AEB technology is a support system that should not be overly relied upon by the driver. In more challenging situations, AEB activation may not be sufficient or not timely enough to avoid a crash completely, although the resulting impact speed may be significantly reduced. According to Euro NCAP, good occupant protection remains vital to avoid serious consequences.

www.fleetcar.ie

16 | LAUNCH PAD II

Ford’s Tourneo Connect a genuine MPV alternative

F

ord’s new Tourneo Connect becomes the latest van-derived Multi-Purpose-Vehicle to offer an alternative to purpose-built compact MPVs.

not necessarily by enough to make cost the deciding purchasing factor.

One big selling point is the sliding rear doors, great for access to the second and third rows of seats, especially in tight car parks. Boot space is at a premium in the seven-seater version, but the third row of seats does slide fore/aft to increase passenger leg room or luggage space.

Van derived passenger cars may have traditionally received short thrift from the buying public, but in its favour, the new Tourneo Connect is based on the highly regarded Transit Connect, a van that is very car-like to drive. Visually it’s smart looking – by van standards – but it still retains the slab-sided appearance that may put some potential customers off .

The passenger derivative comes in two sizes, a five-seater Tourneo Connect, and a seven-

seater dubbed Grand Tourneo Connect. At prices that start from €23,850 for the five seater and €25,100 for the bigger car, they undercut most MPVs on the market today, but

Engines are the 1-litre EcoBoost petrol offering (five-seater only) or a 1.6 diesel with 75, 95 or 115PS. The 95PS is likely to be the most popular here and from initial driving impressions it should offer plenty of poke to satisfy most customer needs Cathal Doyle

Suzuki SX4 S-Cross and think bigger!

I

n response to customer expectations with regard to Crossover Sports Utilities in Europe, Suzuki has entered the C-Segment with its new and larger SX4 S-Cross. Two years ago the Japanese brand gave indications of what the new SUV would look like in showcasing the S-Cross concept in Paris.

g/km is rated in Road Tax Band A3.

Suzuki builds the new SX4 at the Magnor plant in Hungary and this facility will play a significant role as Suzuki’s European Production Centre as expansion plans progress across the Continent.

Some of the new features of the new SX4 include more space for people and luggage, next generation 4WD system and

boasting among the lowest in CO2 emission in its category. The 1.6 DDIS diesel with 110

Prices start from €19,995 for the 1.6 2WD petrol to €30,345 for the 1.6 GLX 4WD diesel (DDIS) All-Grip.

Jarlath Sweeney

Nissan’s triple-pronged B-segment assault

I

t’s a busy time for Nissan with a host of new models on the way.

The next generation Qashqai has just been unveiled, and together with the new X-Trail will arrive in Ireland in the first part of next year. There will also be an all-new C-Segment hatchback in the second half of 2014. Meanwhile the company is in a strong position in the compact car segment, with the arrival of a new Note and a facelifted Micra joining the Juke.

The Micra gets a significant visual update, with over 50% new body panels including front grille, bumpers and lights. Inside, Nissan has addressed criticisms of the current car by improving interior trim quality. Prices range from €14,995 to €18,495. There are two specification levels and a 1.2 litre petrol engine with a choice of manual or CVT transmissions.

Nissan Note

Nissan Qashqai

Although recognizably a successor to the outgoing model, styling revisions give the new Nissan Note a fresh up-to-date appearance.

Available in three grades, XE, SV and SVE, prices range from €15,995 up to €22,145. A brace of three cylinder 1.2 litre petrol engines with 80bhp or 95bhp are complemented by a 90bhp 1.5 diesel. The Note comes with the FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

option of a number of premium features not often available in small family cars, including Nissan Safety Shield which links three safety systems - Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Moving Object Detection.

There’s also an advanced rear view camera that gives a 360-degree view when reversing.

All New Qashqai: Original Crossover re-invented (in brief) •Nissan reveals the all-new crossover icon •Bold Design – combined with segment leading technolog y to build on unprecedented success of the crossover pioneer •Premium quality interior design, materials and specification •3 Engines from launch – 1.2 petrol, 1.5 diesel and 1.6 diesel •2WD and 4WD variants •M a nu a l a nd C V T (Xt ron ic) transmissions •Suite of technologies bring maximum convenience comfort and driver engagement to the crossover segment •Outstanding efficiency with CO 2 emissions from only 99g/km and combined fuel consumption starting at only 3.8l/100km On sale from January 2014, Pricing starts from €24,495 Cathal Doyle

www.renault.ie

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Model shown Clio R-Link with 17" alloy wheel option 1.2 RRP from €18,090 Mégane Dynamique 1.5dCi RRP €21,990 and Fluence Dynamique 1.5dCi RRP €22,490. Price excludes dealer related charges, recommended dealer delivery charge €700. Finance example Clio Expression 1.2 RRP €14,990. Deposit €5,422 36 monthly payments of €141. Total cost of credit €1609, including doc & completion fee of €75 each. APR 6.9%.

Excess mileage plus excess wear and tear charges may apply upon return of vehicle. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms & Conditions apply, see www.renault.ie Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made.

18 | LAUNCH PAD III

Alfa Romeo Rekindles ‘La Passione’ with Giulietta & MiTo

P

assion for its Italian style, passion for its p e r f or m a nc e a nd engineering and passion for its maximum driving satisfaction encapsulates what is Alfa Romeo. All around the world Alfa Romeo Clubs (over 350) have long histories while in recent times over one million ‘followers’ of the famed brand bearing the red cross of the City of Turino have registered on its Facebook site. Google Alfa or Alfa Romeo and over 64 million images come up.

With the arrival of new models Giuliett a

drivetrains to make them even more attractive and fuelefficient.

Drivers will also appreciate the new Uconnect system with colour touchscreen.

and MiTo, a new audience was att racted to Alfa and the time has come around for a ‘moderate refresh’. Both gain from slight changes to the frontal design and upgrades to

Giuliett a gets a new 150 hp 2.0 litre Multijet II diesel while the MiTo range benefits from 0.9 litre turbo TwinAir 105 hp petrol. New colours have been added to the catalogue too. These new models will be available in Ireland in time for the 141 plate and help restore faith in the marque among existing and conquest customers.

Jarlath Sweeney

New Mazda 3 looks sharp

F

ollowing its premiere at the recent Frankfurt Motor Show the allnew Mazda 3 due to go on sale for the 141 registration is set to make an instant impression just like the Mazda 6 did this year. Along with the CX-5, the new Mazda 3 is the third member of Mazda’s multi award winning KUDOSoul of Motion design and SKYACTIV technology.

A car that could be described as a smaller Mazda 6, the new ‘3’ features extra safety features such as Smart City Brake Support and Hill Hold Assist. Four specification levels are

diesel. Both 4-door saloon and 5-door hatchback are the body styles available.

provided with prices starting from €21,595 for the SKYACTIV -G- petrol 100 PS and from €25,295 for the SKYACTIV G 150 PS

“From a de sig n a nd performance perspective, the new generation Mazda 3 truly embodies the spirit of Mazda, defying conventional expectations of the C-segment.

The new generation Mazda 3 offers not only a more powerful and fun drive but more importantly, a more economical and safer one,” comments Tony Howarth, Managing Director, Mazda Motor Ireland.

Jarlath Sweeney

New Audi A8 – Unadulterated Luxury

C

hristian Gussen, Managing Director, Audi Ireland commented on the arrival of the new Audi A8 into Ireland, “The A8 is our flagship model and epitomises our ‘Vorspr ung Durch Technik’ claim. We are proud to have been number one with the A8 in the luxury segment each year since 2010 and with even more efficient TDI and TFSI engines offering more power, the A8 is stronger than it has ever been.”

The latest range topper from Audi combines revisions to its weight optimised, predominantly aluminum body with a raft of technological advances including new Matrix Beam LED headlights and an upgraded line-up of Euro 6 compliant

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

and TDI diesels, the latter requiring AdBlue through the SCR Selective Catalytic Regeneration technology used to meet Euro 6 standards.

It's ready to order now from €94,080 for the 260 bhp 3.0 TDI. Th is means 10 bhp more but 14g less in the emission count at 155 g/km which is now rated Band C or €390 annual road tax. 8-speed tiptronic auto transmission transmits power to all four wheels via permanent all-wheel-drive system engine versions.

engines.

Coming in at the same size as before, the new A8 will have a selection of five petrol

As expected all modern mobile communications technology is to hand for both drivers and back seat passengers.

Jarlath Sweeney

Combined consumption (l/100 km): from 3.6 to 5.8. CO2 emissions (g/km): from 93 to 134.

The new Peugeot 308 is a compact hatchback with a pure and a charismatic design.

It offers a new driving experience, intuitive and intense, with its Peugeot i-Cockpit: a compact steering wheel, head-up instruments, a large touchscreen and the high centre console.

NEW PEUGEOT 308

20 | CONTENDERS

16 Finalists in the 2014 Continental Irish Car of the Year Awards

F

rom the field of 51 new cars launched during 2013, 16 were shortlisted by members of the Irish Motoring Writers’ Association for the Continental Irish Car of the Year Awards. That fi nal 16 were selected from 5 categories with each class winner going forward to be in contention for the overall title Continental Irish Car of the Year 2014. All winners were revealed at the Awards Luncheon held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry on Thursday 21 November. RTE Celebrity and Sunday Independent Columnist Brendan O’Connor was Master of Ceremonies on this occasion. See News section for the list of winners.

Over the next few pages Fleet Car features the contenders from each category in this year’s competition.

Continental Irish Small Car of the Year 2014 Dacia Sandero 1500 units sold in its fi rst year on the Irish market indicates that Dacia is a value for money purchase for these tough economic times. It was no surprise, therefore, that Ireland’s most affordable car; its Sandero Supermini was selected as a Finalist in the Irish Small Car category.

Offering enough space for five adults and 320 litres of boot space, the 5-door hatch, now in its second generation since it was fi rst launched in 2004 comes with two specification levels.

Available in 1.2 litre petrol (75 bhp and 90 bhp) and 1.5 litre diesel (90 bhp) forms, both drivetrains are within Tax Bands A & B. The Sandero is already an award winner in scooping ‘Most Affordable New Car’ in the Scott ish Car of the Year Awards.

Peugeot 2008 No sooner had Peugeot announced that its new 2008 crossover had scored a maximum 5-star safety rating than the French brand reported that with over 54,000 orders across Europe, demand has far exceeded supply. As a result the Mulhouse production plant has doubled daily output, creating 200 new jobs. Packed with safety items, the Compact Crossover SUV comes with a choice of efficient petrol and diesel engines with the 1.2 VTi (82 bhp) petrol Access version (priced from €18,595) and the 1.4 HDi (70 bhp) diesel Access (€19,515) coming in as the entry level versions for Irish customers. Interestingly, the two highest trims Allure and Feline are the most popular across Europe.

Renault Clio The new Renault Clio range has helped the Renault Group move into pole position in Europe in terms of CO2 emissions, with an average of 115.9g of CO2/km per vehicle based on its passenger car sales over the fi rst half of 2013. In the small five-seater diesel car sector the new Clio Energy DCi 90 eco2 is the class leader with 83 g/km. Overall, the new Clio range emits 18.5 of CO 2/km less than the model’s previous third generation.

Combined with att ractive pricing, new technologies, a wide variety of options and low emission engines, new Clio is among the most appealing 5-door car in the Supermini class. Since fi rst launched in 1990, over 12 million Clios have been sold.

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

Who do car makers trust?

about the manufacturers’ choice askconti.ie Continental Tyre Group Ireland, Clyde Lodge, 15 Clyde Road, Dublin 4 Tel. (01) 660 7633

22 | CONTENDERS

Continental Irish Compact Family Car of the Year 2014

Citroën C4 Picasso

Toyota Auris

Lighter, roomier, more fuel efficient and technically advanced, the new C4 Picasso MPV is the most driver and passenger friendly Citroën yet. Always renowned for its smooth driving style and high comfort levels, these traits from the French brand continues with this new family car creation.

New Auris with its more confident design represents the new face of Toyota. Since its launch last November a Hybrid Car Derived Van and Touring (Estate) versions have been added to the range, together with its sister saloon model, the Corolla. The all-new Auris 5-door hatchback maintains Toyota’s high standards in active and passive safety and became the fi rst C-segment model to obtain a 5-star rating, according to the new 2013 Euro NCAP testing programme.

Coming in at 140 kg less than its predecessor, the new C4 Picasso now weighs the same as its smaller C3 Picasso sister. It also offers class-topping boot space of 537 litres and 2.5m load length with front passenger seat folded forward. Among its many att ractive elements is the innovated driver interface with its tablet style 7” touchpad and 12” panoramic HD screen.

Made in England, new Auris’ interior design is distinguished by more cabin and boot space and ‘smart’ packaging. ‘Smart’ being the optimum word with multimedia facilities available at fi ngertips from the 6.1” touch screen which includes a rear view camera.

Toyota Corolla

Volkswagen Golf

It's a measure of the popularity of the Toyota Corolla, that in its 47 year history, over 40 million versions have been sold worldwide – 200,000 of which were in Ireland.

What more can be said of the Volkswagen Golf? Numerous awards have been bestowed on the latest hatchback, which follows on from the strong following all versions before it was achieved. Top accolade is of course the European Car of the Year in which the seventh generation chalked up over double the points of its nearest challenger.

At 4620 mm long, 1775 mm wide and 1465 mm high, the new Corolla is 80 mm longer, 15 mm wider - yet 5 mm lower than the popular outgoing model. Therefore, roominess and comfort levels have been improved without compromising on fuel economy, driving dynamics and safety.

Like its sister hatchback Auris, the Corolla comes with a choice of 1.4 litre D-4D turbo diesels and 1.33 litre dual VVT-i petrol engines.

Th ree grade levels are offered from Terra, Aura and Luna.

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

Launched as a 3 or 5-door hatch, its engine range stretches from 300 hp at the top for the R version to 184 hp for the GTD to the frugal 1.4 TSI petrol with its Stop & Start system for better fuel economy. The selection begins with the 1.2 litre 85 bhp 3 door Trendline while the 1.6 litre TDI 105 bhp has emission levels of just 99 g/km, noted by the fleet sector.

The luxurious new 5 seat Pajero Executive comes with a host of standard equipment including: Full leather upholstery . Automatic transmission . Selective 4 wheel drive with 3,500kg towing capacity . Satellite Navigation . Rear view camera with parking sensors . Electric sunroof . Rockford Fosgate audio system with 12 speakers . Electric, heated front seats . Xenon headlights . Side steps & roof rails…and much more!

To experience the new Pajero Executive for yourself, simply contact you local main Mitsubishi Motors Dealer or visit www.mitsubishi-motors.ie.

24 | CONTENDERS

Continental Irish Family Car of the Year 2014 Kia Carens If in the marketplace for a 5 or 7 seater MPV then the new Kia Carens will meet these needs. It’s very safe too as the multi purpose Carens has secured the maximum 5-safety rating by Euro NCAP scoring high points across all elements of the tests.

As the photograph with Kia Motors Ireland Ambassador, Sean O’Brien (Leinster RFC Ireland & Lions) and Wicklow RFC Minis demonstrates, there is plenty of room for big and small players. Other key strengths of the Carens include its 1.7 litre CRDi diesel engine, 7 year warranty and road tax of €270 per year. New Carens has already been acknowledged by the Scott ish Motoring Writers naming it ‘Best MPV of the Year’.

Mazda 6 Since its arrival in Ireland earlier this year, the new Mazda 6 has attracted much attention and in the fleet sector in particular. No surprise then that it won its D-segment category in the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013 last April. Other business related honours have followed since from markets around Europe.

All of the judging panels remarked on the new 6s stunning looks, excellent driving qualities and superb equipment levels not to mention its high safety enhancements, good residual values and low running costs. Powered by Mazda’s SKYACTIV 2.0 litre petrol and 2.2 litre diesel engines, prices start at €28,745. The Mazda 6 is available in saloon and estate Tourer.

Skoda Octavia In the past 15 years, the Skoda brand has earned a strong reputation among private and business car users. Over that time over 41,000 owners have been proudly driving around in the family sized 5-door hatchback with the compact family car price. The latest version is 90 mm larger, 45 mm wider than the older model with the wheelbase 108 mm longer. Th is leads to even more knee and headroom. Boot space is up 5 litres to 590. Still the Volkswagen Group owned brand design team has managed to cut its weight on the scales by 102 kg.

A choice of three petrol and two diesels power the broad range which includes the Combi estate and RS performance version. The petrols are the 85 bhp and 105 bhp 1.2 TSI and 105 bhp 1.4 TSI. Volume seller is however the 105 bhp 1.6 TDI with the 150 bhp 2.0 TDI also offered.

Continental Irish Performance Car of the Year 2014 Ford Fiesta ST Remember the Ford Fiesta XR2 and XR2i from the 80’s and 90’s?

Zoom into the 21st Century and the new Fiesta ST continues from where these 3-door hot hatches gained instant appeal and popularity.

The last time the ST badge was on a Fiesta was back in 2005. Today’s model has 182 bhp on tap from the 1.6 litre EcoBoost petrol and when compared to the 96 bhp and 105 bhp from the XR2 and XR2i respectively shows how advanced Ford’s engineering development has come in defence to the standard version. The new ST has a broad trapezoidal grille, rear diff user, unique 17-inch alloys, body kit and twin pipe exhaust. Recaro sports seats, ST steering wheel and alloy pedals enhance the interior.

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

CONTENDERS | 25

Easytrip donates to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind

Nissan Juke Nismo Nismo is Nissan’s performance road car line-up and the Japanese brand has great plans to fi rmly establish this division following the success achieved in Japan and the USA. First model to adorn this label in Europe is the Juke Crossover which boasts 200 bhp from the 1.6 litre direct-injection turbo petrol engine. It comes in either 2WD and All Mode 4WD and costs from less than €30,000.

In essence, Nismo transforms the rather tame Juke into a Special Sports performer. It befits Juke’s radical design, with its unique combination of Sports Coupé lines and SUV styling with a few bits added. The Nismo design treatment continues inside.

Peugeot 208 GTi Driving enthusiasts all over were pleased to hear of the return of the GTi badge to the Peugeot Supermini class. The 208 GTi offers the perfect blend of sporty looks, performance and style and with performance figures of 0-100 kp/h in less than seven seconds and with a top speed of 230 kp/h, GTi fans will nod in approval. For the record, CO 2 emissions are low at 139 g/km, not that any new owners will be worried in this direction.

Standard spec on the new 208 GTi include 17-inch alloys, red painted brake calipers, twin-chrome exhaust and body coloured rear spoiler, sports seats with black half leather, rear parking aid and armrest. The GTi is priced from around €28,000.

Volkswagen Golf GTI What is particularly noteworthy about the new seventh generation Volkswagen GTI is that the 2.0 litre petrol powered engine has dropped a number of tax bands. With emission levels of just 139 g/km (with the 6 speed manual gearbox) it sits in Band B2 which requires an annual road tax of €280.

For diesel lovers there’s the high performance GTD which produces 184 bhp and 380 Nm of torque and emission levels of just 109 g/km.

That means with the manual gearbox, it is rated Tax Band A3 with the road fee at €190. Both the GTI and GTD modes also come with DSG dual-clutch automatic transmissions. Prices start at €33,820 and €35,740 respectively.

Continental Executive/Luxury Car of the Year 2014

BMW 4 Series Coupé One of the more recent launches this year, the new BMW 4 Series Coupé which has a starting price of €47,130 (for the 420d SE) was also one of the most eagerly awaited. Effectively the 4 Series Coupé replaces the 3 Series Coupé, a most successful Sport Coupé in its own right and lifetime.

Six engines are on the spec sheet with xDrive all-wheel-drive system or three versions and impressively CO2 emissions start at only 121 g/km thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics. Compared to the outgoing 3 Series Coupé, the new 4 Coupé has a 50mm longer wheelbase that facilitates the body to stretch 26 mm. It is 43 mm wider too. As the roofl ine is 16 mm lower, and the fact the suspension is lower, it has the lowest centre of gravity of any current BMW. Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie

Range Rover Described as the world’s most refi ned and capable luxury SUV 4x4, the new Range Rover is lighter yet stronger, more powerful, yet frugal and is designed/engineered and built in the UK. Following the innovative spirit of the original design from over 40 years ago, the new Range Rover has indeed come a long way. From the three models available, new owners will not be disappointed as what they will get is a car at the pinnacle of the refi nement and engineering.

Prices start at €119,355 for the TDV6 HSE which has a CO 2 rating of 196 g/km and an annual road tax of €1,200. The range tops at €179,175 for the 5.0 V8 Supercharged Autobiography model. www.fleetcar.ie

26 | TEST

BMW 518d appeals but 520d remains King

O

ld habits, it seems, die hard. Despite it now coming up to six years since car taxation moved to an emissions based standard rather than the previous engine capacity system, we still tend to opt for the smallest engine possible in a car.

Understandable if the less powerful engines offer better fuel economy or qualify for a lower tax band, but typically these days bigger capacity engines are just as economical and as cheap to tax as their smaller brethren, while at the same time being a whole lot nicer to drive.

Compared though to the 520d, you do have to work the 518d that little bit harder than you might expect in an Executive saloon. It’s hardly lethargic - a 0-100 km/h of 9.7 seconds attests to that - but it doesn’t have quite the same seamless performance that has made the 520d such a favourite with fleet buyers in recent times. Notably when executing overtaking manoeuvres, more often than not I found myself nudging the Driving Experience Control switch into Sport mode to get a sharper response from the accelerator.

BMW has recently launched a new entry-level diesel for its 5-Series, and based on consumer buying history we can expect it to quickly become the most popular model in the range in Ireland. The 518d comes with a respectable 143 bhp, returns over 60mpg, and - depending on what trim you opt for - falls into tax bands A4 or B1.

If the 520d didn’t exist you would happily live with the 518d as an entry-level diesel. Equally, if the less powerful engine offered better fuel consumption or emissions, the case for it would be strong. However, given the choice we’d stump up the extra money and opt for the 520d.

Before rushing out to place an order though consider this. BMW already offers a rather excellent engine in its 520d model. It has the same 1995cc cubic capacity, same CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, but comes with 41bhp more horsepower and 20Nm more torque than the 518d.

There is, granted, a financial consideration with the 518d costing around €2,500 less than the equivalent 520d model. Not an insignificant amount, but in relative terms for an Executive level car that starts off at over €43,000, it’s unlikely to have the same impact on buying decisions as for cars costing half the price.

The 5-Series has become a familiar sight on Irish roads, and after a week spent with the 518d it’s easy to see its ongoing appeal. This is an excellent all-round mid-sized Executive saloon. Opt for the Luxury specification as in my test car and it is certainly not lacking for equipment levels. The 5-Series may already be three years on sale in its current sixth-generation guise, but having recently received a minor mid-life facelift, its blend of excellent driving dynamics, comfort and a build quality second to none will certainly keep it to the fore for fleet and private buyers alike for the foreseeable future.

But what of the engine in the 518d? In many respects it is a fine performer, as refined as you’d expect from the brand. It’s smooth and quiet, prett y frugal - I averaged 5.7l/100km (49.5mpg) in over 1,100km - and pulls cleanly from around 1500 rpm.

FLEETCAR | Winter 2013

BMW 518d Luxury Saloon Spec Check Price as tested Engine Power Torque 0-100 km/h Quoted Fuel Economy CO 2 Emissions / Tax Band

€53,553.09 1995cc 4-cylinder Diesel 143bhp 360 Nm 9.7 seconds 4.7l/100km (60.1mpg) 124 g/km / B1

Text & Photos: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie

IT’D BE RUDE NOT TO STARE FROM ONLY ¤239 PER MONTH

THE STRIKINGLY DESIGNED NEW SEAT LEON SPORTS TOURER. THE MOST SPACIOUS CAR IN ITS CLASS. Not only is the new SEAT Leon Sports Tourer gorgeous to look at, it also boasts an incredibly practical side. Its strikingly designed exterior - including unique bumpers, roof rails and rear lamps - gives it an impressive air of sportiness and dynamism.

3 years warranty / 3 years roadside assistance

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SEAT IRELAND Fleet & Remarketing Manager John Granby Block C, Liffey Valley Office Campus, Liffey Valley, Dublin 22 T: 01 8989801 E: fleet@seat.ie W: www.seat.ie Typical Finance example: LEON ST 1.2TSI 86hp S OTRP ¤20,785. Deposit / Part Exchange ¤6,026.68. 36 monthly payments of ¤239. Optional Final Payment ¤7,670.30. Total hire purchase price ¤22,450.98 including acceptance fee (¤75) and completion fee (¤75). Minimum deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. SEAT Finance is a trading style of Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland, authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Model shown for illustrative purposes. Average combined fuel consumption 5.2l/100km and C02 emissions 119g/km.

Stunning, Swedish and dressed in leather.

With our new Personal Contract Plans you can get all the incredible safety features and stylish, Swedish design of the Volvo S60 from just €399* per month. Sign up today and receive complimentary leather interior as well. To find out more contact your local Volvo dealer or visit volvocars.ie

The Volvo S60 with free leather from €399* per month

volvocars.IE Model

S60 D2 SE with Leather

On the Road Price†

Customer Deposit/Part Exchange

Finance Amount

36 Monthly payments of

Term

GMFV (Optional Final Payment) ††

Total Cost of Credit

APR %*

€35,095

€10,528.50

€24,566.50

€399

37

€14,153.50

€4,014.49

6.9% Fixed

Terms & Conditions: †Includes delivery & related charges. Model is shown for illustrative purposes only. ††The Guaranteed Minimum Future Value (GMFV) is payable if you renew or retain the vehicle at the end of the agreement. Further charges may be applied by your Volvo Dealer subject to kilometre limits/condition of the vehicle. *Lending criteria and terms and conditions apply. Finance is provided by way of a hire purchase agreement. Finance example is based on a fixed rate APR of 6.9% and is inclusive of a once off documentation fee of €63.49. To qualify for this finance offer a minimum deposit of 10% of the ‘On the Road Price’ and a maximum term of 37 months applies. Rate quoted is correct as at 1st October 2013 and is subject to change. This offer is available on all selected Volvo passenger models registered from 1st October 2013 to 31st March 2014, at participating Volvo dealers only. The credit provider is Bank of Ireland Finance which is a registered trading name of Bank of Ireland. Fuel consumption for the Volvo Range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 26.9 (10.5) – 68.9 (4.1), Extra Urban 41.5 (6.8) – 83.8 (3.4). Combined 34.4 (8.2) – 76.3 (3.7).

Co2 Emissions 215 – 96 g/km. All new Volvo cars come with a 3 year warranty and 2 years’ roadside assistance.