Fleet Car Winter 2012

IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

incorporating Volume 10. No. 4. Winter 2012

FEATURES:

Continental Irish Car of the Year 2013

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013 INTERVIEW: Andrew Doyle, Managing Director, Audi Ireland LAUNCH PAD: • Ford • Honda • Hyundai • KIA • Opel • Skoda COMPARISION: Ford Mondeos TEST DRIVE: Volvo S80

contents Winter 2012 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 Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fleet.ie Deputy Editor: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fleet.ie Contributors: Gerry Murphy, Paul White, Rob Van Dieten, James Dockery, Sixt Leasing, Merrion Fleet Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle, Rob Van Dieten, Paul White Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey

4 News • Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013 • GoCar is Go … again! • Continental Irish Car Award winners announced • BMW most reliable PLUS Junction Box 6 Interview With Andrew Doyle, Managing Director, Audi Ireland

www.fleetcar.ie

32 Test Volvo S80 34 Latest News • New products from Mercedes-Benz • Hyundai announcement

8 Review National Ploughing Championships 2012, New Ross, County Wexford 11 Fleet Car Buyers Guide 2013 Five categories of cars listed in detail

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27 Long Term Test Comparison between two Ford Mondeo diesels 28 Launch Pad New models destined for ‘131’ plates

Advertising: Mary Morrissey

30 Direction/adi Road Safety Newsletter

Design: Eamon Wynne

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www.fleetcar.ie Fleet Car Magazine’s website

NOW ON T W ITTER TOO!

SIMI disappointed with tax increases but welcomes new registration plate Alan Nolan, Director General, SIMI:

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

"While increases in VRT and Road Tax were strongly signalled, we warned Government that now is not the time and it is certainly not the time to increase both. The motorist is already paying enough tax to be on the road and new car sales are down 10,000 on last year. We have always said that more tax would be generated from increasing the sale of cars rather than increasing taxation. The Budget VRT increases should deliver about €50 million but this amount could be generated from the sale of just 6,000 extra cars and this would also support 800 extra jobs which would save the Government almost €20 million.

On the plus side, for those buying a new car next year with a trade-in, the increase in VRT will have a knock-on effect on the value of the second hand, so the cost to change should not be significantly different. We are also satisfied that this major restructuring of VRT and Road Tax Bands was based on consultation with the Industry and has produced a structure that will give us stability into the future."

FC09.12

Disclaimer: Fleet Transport 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 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.

Alan Lyons, President of SIMI says, "The introduction of the new registration period is really good news for the Industry. For several years, we have been highlighting the problem of seasonality in our industry, where 80% of new cars are sold in the fi rst half of the year, forcing garages to reduce staff because of lack of business later on in the year. While we may not see a significant change in buying patterns in its fi rst year of introduction, the new plate will have a hugely positive impact on the industry in the long term."

The retention of the VRT relief for electric cars, plug-in hybrids and flexi-fuel vehicles is also welcomed, as too is the reduction in Road Tax for Electric cars.

FLEETCAR | Winter 2012 3

NEWS 1

Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013

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ollowing the success of the inaugural Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards, the 2013 installment will be held earlier next Spring and will continue with the successful format with just one addition to the award classification line-up.

with the Awards presentation luncheon at a venue to be confi rmed. More details soon on www.fleetcar.ie or www.motorcheck.ie

Due to the large number of estate cars now available from the various manufacturers (33 and counting!), the judging panel has decided to include an Estate-Premium category alongside the standard Estate Class, C-Segment, D-Segment (+ Premium) and Executive classes on the programme.

Since last time, a number of new cars have joined the list of candidates together with a few models that have received a mid-life makeover. The expert adjudication panel, all of who are involved in this specialist area of the motor industry will have to assess almost 100 cars from the Long List between now and late Spring and select the top ten models in each category. Th at Shortlist will then provide the opportunity for further analysis and examination from a practical and fi nancial viewpoint.

The most fuel-efficient car in its class, new Mégane has undergone a number of styling changes, refreshing the range for 2013. New styling gives a more modern feel, while LED daytime running lights provide a distinctive new lighting signature while the bumper features a gloss black finish with chrome highlights.

GoCar is go in Dublin and now Cork … again!

S

GoCar CEO Colm Brady commented to Fleet Car on Ireland’s car sharing initiative returning to its roots,” GoCar was born and raised in Cork and it is no surprise that the car sharing concept has really taken off in the city. We are delighted to be opening the new base in CIT, Cork and 4 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

With a bolder, more confident design the all-new Auris reinforces the new face of Toyota. The smart packaging and highquality materials deliver a spacious and appealing interior along with a focus on weight management, chassis design and aerodynamics to improve the dynamic performance while reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Renault Megane Revised

As per the fi rst edition, the event will culminate

ince the team behind Europcar took over the reins of the GoCar business they have focused on putt ing in place the orgainisation structure to enable the car sharing scheme to fulfill its potential. Namely, improving the infrastructure by increasing the number of places to access a vehicle and the number and choice of vehicles available.

Currently there are 22 GoCars, 17 in Dublin and 5 in Cork with additional centres coming on stream every week. The reestablishment of locations in Cork is interesting as the concept originated in the ‘Rebel City’.

New Toyota Auris

expanding the fleet in the city centre.”

The GoCar initiative works on a pay-per-trip basis which allows the user the freedom to access a vehicle as when and they need it. “With a new reduced pricing structure GoCa r now runs an easy to understand peak and off peak pricing platform for all users. The rate for our GoCity car is only €4.99 per hour at peak times from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and €2.49 per hour off-peak (8 p.m. – 8 a.m.) with 45 cent per kilometer. Th is price is fully inclusive of all taxes, insurance and fuel,” added Colm Brady.

“In our new head office in Santry, we have a dedicated team providing customer support, managing sign-ups and producing a more informed and user friendly website,” he concluded.

New Mégane is the first Renault model to be available with the two new Stop & Start engines, which combine both motoring enjoyment and fuel efficiency. Prices start at €18,990

Double Euro win for Reynolds!

Congratulations to Joe Reynolds, Chairman Reynolds Logistics on winning the 2012 FIA Trophy for Historic Regularity Rallies in the final round held in Greece. For the majority of the 9 rounds he campaigned in a 1967 BMW 1600-2 Alpina. After arriving home the next day, his company went on to win the overall European Transport Company of the Year Award 2012 presented at the Fleet Transport Expo 12 at Citywest, Dublin.

NEWS 11

Semperit Award for Tyre & Service Superstore (Square Fit) Tyre & Service Superstore (Square Fit) with outlets in Tallaght, Ballymount and Finglas, was recently named the winner of the Semperit Tyre Retailer of the Year competition 2012. From a field of some 25 tyre retailers nationwide, Tyre & Service Superstore was selected as the best performing across a number of criteria.

Kevin Farrell, MD of Tyre and Service Superstore, receives the Semperit Tyre Retailer of the Year award for 2012 from Paddy Murphy of Semperit Ireland.

BMW wins Continental Irish Car of the Year 2013 for the first time

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or the fi rst occasion in many years members of the Irish Motoring Writers Association selected a premium class model as the Continental Irish Car of the Year.

For the 2013 award, the BMW 3 Series topped the polls with 240 points with the Volvo V40 taking 220 points followed by the Peugeot 208 on 202 points. All three were category winners announced at an awards ceremony in the Convention Centre, Dublin. The Toyota GT86 was another category winner as was the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe.

The Irish Motoring Writers' Association judges awarded points on the basis of criteria ranging from innovation and safety to space, comfort, build quality, driving quality and value for money.

Presenting the award to Michael Nugent, Director of Sales and Marketing, BMW Group Ireland, Paddy Murphy of sponsor, Continental Tyres Ireland, commented: "The BMW 3 Series is a fitt ing winner of this prestigious award given its renowned efficiency and technological strengths.

For some time this series has been a favourite among the business and broader driving public, and the recognition of excellence from the Irish Motoring Writers today will only enhance this standing."

Th is award marks the fi rst time that BMW has taken the Irish Car of the Year title and signs off a very successful year for the German brand, having scored two category wins in the inaugural Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2012 with the BMW 5 Series and 5 Series Touring winning the Executive and Estate classes respectively.

Category winners:

Paddy Murphy; Continental Ireland, Michael Nugent; BMW Ireland, Daniella Moyles and Gerry Murphy; Chairman IMWA.

Opel returns to Motorsport Opel is returning to motor racing in the form of an internationally oriented rally program with the new Opel ADAM and a circuit series for the new Astra OPC that focuses on Germany. “These new motorsports activities play an important role in the strategic realignment of the company; they are a fundamental element of our brand profile,” says Dr. Thomas Sedran, Opel’s Deputy CEO. Especially in grassroot motorsport, the Ruesselsheim carmaker can look back on a long and successful tradition.

Peugeot 208 Continental Irish Small Car 2013 Volvo V40 Continental Irish Compact Family Car 2013 BMW 3 Series Continental Irish Family Car 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe Continental Irish Executive / Luxury Car 2013 Toyota GT86 Continental Irish Performance Car 2013

BMW Produces Most Reliable Company Cars

B

MW produces the most reliable company cars in the UK, according to a survey of the 50 largest contract hire and leasing companies, while Ford builds the most reliable vans. Companies are surveyed each year and ranked according to fleet size, and in the survey they are asked to name their most reliable cars and vans. The list is complied by Sewells Research & Insight.

BMW has repeated its double victory in the 2011 survey coming top as most reliable car manufacturer as well as having three cars in the top 10 with the top spot taken by the 3 Series. The Volkswagen Golf has moved up one place from last year, while the third-placed Audi A4 is five positions higher than in 2011.

The Honda Civic (predominantly the 2006-2011 model) takes fourth place after a brief absence from the top 10, while Honda demonstrates its consistence in producing reliable cars with the Accord in fi fth position, retaining a long record in the top five of the survey. The lower half of the top 10 contains three cars absent from the rankings in 2011, the first being the Mercedes-Benz C-Class in sixth place, one position ahead of the Audi A3.

Top 10 most reliable cars; (2011 position in brackets) 1 BMW 3 series (1) 2 Volkswagen Golf (3) 3 Audi A4 (8) 4 Honda Civic (-) 5 Honda Accord (2) 6 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (-) 7 Audi A3 (4) 8= BMW 1 Series (-) 8= Ford Focus (-) 10 BMW 5 Series (10) Top 10 most reliable car manufacturers; (2011 position in brackets) 1 BMW (1) 2 Audi (2) 3 Honda (3) 4 Volkswagen (4) 5 Toyota (5) 6 Ford (8) 7 Skoda (10) 8 Mercedes-Benz (7) 9 Nissan (6) 10 Volvo (-).

Meanwhile, the Opel/Vauxhall Ampera extended range electric vehicle has been honoured as Green Vehicle of the Year by fleet decision-makers at the prestigious 2012 Association of Car Fleet Operators (ACFO) Awards. The awards, which are voted for online exclusively by the ACFO membership, are highly-prized because unlike many other awards they reflect the day-to-day operational experience and expertise of fleet decision-makers.

This prize is the latest in a long line of over 40 top gongs for the ground-breaking Ampera, which include the current European Car of the Year. www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012 5

INTERVIEW

One-to-One

Andrew Doyle, Managing Director, Audi Ireland with Jarlath Sweeney, editor@fleet.ie

J.S. From its origins with NSU to the success in the glory days of World Rallying to domination in Le Mans, Audi has made great progress in the past few decades. Discuss!

A.D. Innovation and progressiveness is at the heart of the company ethos and motorsport racing is a perfect opportunity for Audi to pioneer any technological developments. That is why the Audi brand is steeped in motorsport heritage.

Audi has made great progress in the past few decades. The historic victory at Le Mans this year was of particular importance, as it is the oldest and one of the most competitive sports car races in the world. It was such an outstanding achievement for the team to win with a hybrid vehicle, as it had never before been done.

J.S. In the ongoing difficult times for the Irish motor industry, Audi must be confident of the future with significant investment in new Dealerships and services?

A.D. Audi Ireland is investing heavily in the Irish market at present as we see strong potential for long-term growth. We are however, investing in sustainable businesses with long term business partners – our Audi Ireland Dealer Network – in strategically positioned market area locations. Despite the obvious and well publicised external economic difficulties, we are backing our ambition with significant investment – just as we are with the Audi Brand on a world-wide basis.

2012 has been a very successful year for Audi, both on a global scale and here in Ireland and we are on track to be Ireland’s number one premium car marque for the fourth consecutive year.

Continued investment in our dealer network forms part of a global strategy which has been put in place to create larger, more efficient businesses that can provide our customers with an unrivalled customer experience.

J.S. From a product perspective, Audi has a strong line-up in all segments, is there more to come?

A.D. It is fair to say that we have fantastic product – which is little wonder, as AUDI AG is investing more than €2 billion per annum into product development. We are particularly excited about our next product launch – the Audi A3 Sportback. It has been a success 6 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

story since its Irish launch back in 1996, and with the sleeker, sportier, more fuel efficient model due to arrive in early 2013, we are confident it will defend its leading position within the premium A segment and strengthen its role in this segment in 2013.

J.S. Audi’s gradual increase in market share here in Ireland is noteworthy, where did the conquest customers come from? Did the ‘Celtic Tiger’ help?

A.D. I think the ‘Celtic Tiger’ helped the every manufacturer in Ireland, including Audi.

However, I do not think our acquisition of new customers and increase in market share can be attributed to this.

On the one hand, finance was readily available and that certainly enticed a large number of motorists to purchase premium market vehicles for the first time and people did upgrade.

In saying that, Audi Ireland is continuing to enjoy outstanding success today, long after the ‘Celtic Tiger’. In 2012 we experienced a growth of around 10%, faster than any of our nearest competitors and have experienced record market share levels of 4.6% YTD. For the fourth consecutive year, we have enjoyed premium market leadership with a solid gap over our nearest competitor.

I firmly believe that our brand is seen as stylish and sophisticated but not ostentatious. Audi has this unique premium positioning but it is not “showy” and this suits certain post Celtic Tiger motorists.

Our success this year follows on from 2011 when we maintained our position as premium market leader delivering a total of 3,400 units to Irish customers. This figure represented a significant year-on-year increase of 23% on 2010 underlining the sustained growth pattern.

It is also important to note that Audi’s success is not isolated to any one region as globally Audi is growing from strength to strength and in the first ten months of the year, the company handed over more than 1,220,000 cars to customers worldwide, 13% more than in the same period of 2011 – this too is faster than any of our main competitors globally.

J.S. The appreciation of the brand continues how is this achieved? Is it through good Dealer back-up or just good reliability?

A.D. It is both actually.

We have the best people throughout the country and they are the face of the brand. Our dealers do

a fantastic job and the standard is consistently excellent. They are trained, motivated, and passionate about the Audi Brand – their ultimate desire is to delight our customers.

Globally and in Ireland, Audi is 100% committed to providing customers with an unrivalled motoring experience and this is reflected in our continued dealer network investment in Ireland and around the world. We aim to continue to excite our Audi customers once they are in the ‘family’.

Our model range is also really strong and we also offer excellent, flexible (according to people’s situation), value driven finance packages to Irish motorists – we have loaned €30 million to Irish motorists in 2012 alone, and our Bank’s acceptance rate is almost 9 out of every 10 applications..

J.S. How significant is the availability of finance through the Volkswagen Bank to the Audi brand?

A.D. It has been very significant.

Audi Finance penetration of total sales has increased more than 40% in just twelve months to more than 20%, with more than €30 million provided in vehicle finance packages to Irish Audi customers this year alone.

Year-to-date, more than 20% of Audi customers have availed of a personalised financial payment plan which guarantees the future value of your car.

J.S. Satisfied with your presence in the fleet sector and happy with the category win with the A4 in the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2012?

A.D. We were delighted with the category win at the recent Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards.

The Audi A4 was shortlisted from a list of nearly 100 vehicles aimed at the business customer so it was great to see the A4 recognised for its styling, residual value, performance and fuel economy.

It certainly is a great car for the fleet sector!

Read the interview in full on www.fleetcar.ie

REVIEW

National Ploughing Championships 2012

Bolands of Wexford

Dacia

Bolands of Wexford were showcasing the new BMW 320d SE Touring estate car. It is claimed to have a combined consumption figure of 58.9mpg and is fitted with a 2.0 diesel engine as well as a longer rear axle transmission ratio. These features together with a lowered suspension and the use of specially designed aerodynamic alloy wheels combine ‘family car’ and ‘sportiness’. www.bolandswexford.ie

In mid-July Dacia announced its arrival in Ireland with its Duster, the fi rst of its range to go on sale at just €14,990. The company says the response from Irish consumers to the new budget priced SUV has been phenomenal and pointed out that there are already 2 million of the Renault Group Romanian based brand on the road worldwide. Both 2WD and 4WD versions were on display. www.dacia.ie

Land Rover

Mazda

The fourth generation Range Rover was displayed with a revolutionary lightweight all-aluminium monocoque body structure which is 39 percent lighter than the steel body in the outgoing model enabling total vehicle weight savings of up to 420kg. The lightweight aluminium platform has delivered significant enhancements in performance with a transformation in fuel economy and CO2 emissions. In addition an all-new aluminium chassis has been completely re-engineered to include four-corner air suspension and is said to deliver flatter, more confident cornering. www.landrover.ie

The CX-5 SUV got huge attention on the Mazda stand. The 2.0 litre engine with fuel consumption of 4.6l/100km was perhaps one of its key att ractions. A lightweight reinforced steel body shell probably contributes to this performance. The ‘Smart City Brake Support System’ comes as standard from Sport grade which is designed to prevent or reduce frontal collisions by using a sensor to monitor traffic in front and then pre-loading the brakes in anticipation of sudden braking. www.mazda.ie

Mini Among the many quirky looking cars on the Mini stand was ‘Countryman’. The elevated ground clearance and optional all-wheel drive make the Countryman a real diversification for the brand. With four doors and four individual seats it is claimed to offer real comfort on long journeys and on rough terrain. With 1,170 litres of boot space and moving or folding down rear seats, extra luggage is also well catered. www.mini.ie

8 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

REVIEW

New Ross, County Wexford

Mondello Park/Prodrift The Prodrift Academy has teamed up with Mondello Park racing circuit to promote the Prodrift Academy experience. Drivers aged 13 and over are taught how to drift in specially prepared cars under professional supervision, by experienced competitors. At a cost of €99 it is expected to be a popular Christmas present for young and not so young enthusiasts. www.prodrift series.com / www.mondellopark.ie

Peugeot

Skoda

Top Gear

In addition to a wide range of vehicles and a demonstration track, Skoda wase promoting its ‘My ŠKODA’ Loyalty Programme which is designed to give customers more value from their ŠKODA including extra cash thanks to discounts on servicing or weekend shopping and dining. By signing up for the card a ŠKODA driver you can visit their local authorised retailer to avail of these rewards. www.myskoda.ie Pictured is Niamh Fairley, Aftersales Marketing Specialist.

The ever popular Top Gear simulator was drawing a lot of attention.

Utilising the technology of simulation, enthusiasts were put in some of the most up to date supercars including the 1,184bhp 253mph Bugatt i Veyron and the nimble R7500 Caterham driven by the Stig at the Top Gear test track. Using original BBC footage and presented in full HD you feel the full force of acceleration, slick gear changes and phenomenal breaking. www.topgearexperience.com

Peugeot importers Gowan Motors gave pride of place on its stand to the Peugeot 508 RXH Hybrid4, which is the world’s fi rst diesel-electric hybrid passenger car. Marketing Manager Emma Toner pointed out that apart from its obvious environmental benefits the car produces 200bhp and is available in 4WD. www.peugeot.ie

Toyota Marketing executive Sinead Mac Curtain was keen to highlight the features of Toyota’s new GT86 sports car. Fitted with a 2.0 litre, 200bhp engine and rear wheel drive, the sports coupe will undoubtedly appeal to previous Celica, Supra and MR2 owners. 17” alloy wheels and a rear spoiler should also add to the att raction. www.toyota.ie

Text & Photos: Joe O'Brien - joe@fleet.ie

www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012 9

Buyers' Guide 2013

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C Segment

elcome to the Fleet Car Buyers’ Guide 2013. Unlike the standard type of new car listings available at this time of year, the focus is on price thresholds, emission levels and residual values. As you will see, we concentrate on five categories which generate the most sales in the company/corporate car sector – C-Segment,

D-Segment (plus Premium), Estate (plus Premium), Executive and Luxury. Listed are over 100 new cars ranging from existing models, newcomers and those that have benefited from a mid-life facelift .

values listed which is a combined average rating for each car.

Please note that the prices and tax bands mentioned were compiled pre-Budget due to publication and printer deadlines.

Special thanks to Sixt Leasing, Merrion Fleet and another major leasing company for providing the forcast figures for the residual

Compiled by Gerry Murphy and Cathal Doyle.

MAKE/MODEL: Alfa Romeo Giuliett a ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4 / 1.6-2.0 JTD POWER RA NGE: 120-170bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A-C 114-149g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.4-7.6L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €20,495-3€1,845 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A3 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4TSI / 1.6-2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 105-180bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/S-Tronic ECO-BAND: A-C 99-135g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.8-5.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €26,660-€32,800 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 36% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: BMW 1-Series ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-2.0 / 2.0d POWER RA NGE: 102-184bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-D 99-134g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-5.7L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €23,880-€39,800 MOTOR TAX: €160-€667 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 14

MAKE/MODEL: Chrysler Delta ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4-1.6 / 1.6-2.0MJTD POWER RA NGE: 120-165bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B 130-135g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.6-5.7L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €22,395-€30,995 MOTOR TAX: €225 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 7

MAKE/MODEL: Citroen C4 ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6 Diesel: HDi/e-HDi POWER RA NGE: 90-115bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/EGS ECO-BAND: A (A2-A4) 98-119g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.8-4.7L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €19,995-€26,945 MOTOR TAX: €180-€200 RESIDUAL: 28% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 25

MAKE/MODEL: Citroen DS4 ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6-2.0 Petrol/Diesel: THP/HDi/e-HDi POWER RA NGE: 115-200bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/EGS ECO-BAND: A4-C 114-149g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.4-6.4L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €25,045-€31,345 MOTOR TAX: €200-€390 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 25 www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012 11

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Ford Focus Hatch/Saloon ENGINE RA NGE: 1.0 EcoBoost - 1.6/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6TDCi-2.0TDCi POWER RA NGE: 85-115PS TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 109-139g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-7.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €19,465-€30,595 (Hch) €19,865-€29,882 (Sal) MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 41

MAKE/MODEL: Honda Civic ENGINE RA NGE: 1.4 - 1.8i-VTEC/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-2.2i-DTEC POWER RA NGE: 100-150PS TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-D 94-148g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.3-6.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €21,395-€29,160 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 20

MAKE/MODEL: Honda CR-Z ENGINE RA NGE: 1.5 Petrol i-VTEC with IMA EV POWER RA NGE: 124PS TRA NSMISSION: CVT ECO-BAND: A 117 g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €25,400-€28,150 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 20

MAKE/MODEL: Hyundai i30 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4 / 1.4-1.6D POWER RA NGE: 90-110bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 109-145g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.1-6.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €18,995-€26-995 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 28% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 32

MAKE/MODEL: Kia cee’d ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4 / 1.4-1.6D POWER RA NGE: 89-126bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 114-145g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-6.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €18,995-€28,895 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 7 Years DEALERS: 15

MAKE/MODEL: Lexus CT200 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol: Hybrid POWER RA NGE: 99bhp TRA NSMISSION: Hybrid Auto ECO-BAND: A 84-94g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.8-4.1L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €29,575-€34,435 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 5

MAKE/MODEL: Mazda Mazda3 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 / 1.6D POWER RA NGE: 105-115bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A-C 115-147g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-6.3 L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €19,795-€23,645 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 26

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz A Class ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-2.0/1.5-2.2CDI POWER RA NGE: 90-155bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 98-148g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.1-6.4 L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €26,435-€41,230 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: TBC WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23

MAKE/MODEL: Mitsubishi Lancer ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.8DiD POWER RA NGE: 150bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: B 130g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.3 L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €21,850 MOTOR TAX: €225 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 22

12 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Nissan Leaf ENGINE RA NGE: Electric Petrol/Diesel: N/A POWER RA NGE: 80kW/107hp TRA NSMISSION: CVT ECO-BAND: A Zero CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 175km PRICE RA NGE: €30,595 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 29% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 45

MAKE/MODEL: Opel Astra ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4-1.6 / 1.3-2.0CDTi POWER RA NGE: 95-160bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-D 109-167g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.9-7.4L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €18,995-€29,295 MOTOR TAX: €160-€481 RESIDUAL: 32% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 31

MAKE/MODEL: Opel Astra Saloon ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4 - 1.6/1.3-2.0CDTi POWER RA NGE: 95-140bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-D From 99g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: From 3.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €19,495-€27,995 MOTOR TAX: €160-€481 RESIDUAL: 32% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 31

MAKE/MODEL: Peugeot 308 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6HDi POWER RA NGE: 92-112bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Ecomatique ECO-BAND: A 110g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.0-4.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €21,010-€24,580 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 32

MAKE/MODEL: Renault Fluence ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.5dCi POWER RA NGE: 90-110bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A 115-120g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €20,590-€23,890 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 29% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 19

MAKE/MODEL: Renault Fluence Z.E. ENGINE RA NGE: Electric Petrol/Diesel: N/A POWER RA NGE: 94bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: A Zero CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 185km PRICE RA NGE: €21,610-€22,710 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 29% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 19

MAKE/MODEL: Renault Megane ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.5dCi POWER RA NGE: 90bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A 104g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €19,990-€23,890 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 28% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 19

MAKE/MODEL: SEAT Leon ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.2TSi / 1.6TDI POWER RA NGE: 105bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A-B 109-132g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2-5.7L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €19,505-€22,995 MOTOR TAX: €106-€225 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22 www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012 13

BMW 5 Series

www.bmw.ie

The Ultimate Driving Machine

JOY EXCELS AT EXCELLENCE. THE BMW 5 SERIES. WINNER OF BEST EXECUTIVE CAR AT THE 2012 FLEET CAR AWARDS. We’re delighted to announce that the BMW 5 Series has won the prestigious award of Best Executive Car at the 2012 Fleet Car Awards. The BMW 5 Series provides a CFBVUJGVM TIPXDBTF GPS &G趑 DJFOU %ZOBNJDT PVS XBZ PG EFMJWFSJOH NPSF QFSGPSNBODF GPS GFXFS FNJTTJPOT 'FBUVSFT TVDI BT #SBLF &OFSHZ 3FHFOFSBUJPO FJHIU TQFFE BVUPNBUJD USBOTNJTTJPO BOE FG趑 DJFOU FOHJOFT NFBO JODSFBTFE ESJWJOH QMFBTVSF BOE MFTT GVFM DPOTVNQUJPO -JLF UIF KVEHFT ZPVѳMM 趑 OE UIF #.8 4FSJFT QFSGFDU JOTJEF BOE PVU Visit bmw.ie GPS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO

Awards

2012

WINNER

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: SEAT Toledo ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.2TSI/1.6TDI POWER RA NGE: 85-105bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A 104-119g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-6.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €16,890-€22,890 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: TBC WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22

MAKE/MODEL: Skoda Octavia ENGINE RA NGE: 1.2 - 1.4TSI Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 -2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 105-140bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A-C 109-158g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.8-5.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €17,995-€28,800 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22

MAKE/MODEL: Toyota Auris ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.33 / 1.4D4-D POWER RA NGE: 90-99bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A-B 118-13g/km6 CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.8-5.8L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €18,995-€24,915 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 34% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 51

MAKE/MODEL: Toyota Corolla ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.33 / 1.4D4-D POWER RA NGE: 90-99bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A-B 125-133g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.8-5.8L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €20,380-€25,995 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 51

MAKE/MODEL: Volkswagen Jett a ENGINE RA NGE: 1.2-1.4TSI/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 105-140bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A-C 119-144g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-6.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €21,860-€31,155 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 37

MAKE/MODEL: Volvo V40 ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6 T3/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6D2-2.0D3 POWER RA NGE: 115-150bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/G-Tronic ECO-BAND: A-C 94-136g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.6-5.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €26,995-€35,995 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 32% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 18

MAKE/MODEL: Skoda Rapid ENGINE RA NGE: 1.2 - 1.4TSI Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 TDI POWER RA NGE: 75-122bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DS6 ECO-BAND: A-B 119-134g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.4-6.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €15,995-€20,745 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22

MAKE/MODEL: Volkswagen Golf ENGINE RA NGE: 1.2TSI Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 -2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 85-140bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A-B 99-138g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.8-5.8L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €19,430-€30,810 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 37% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 37

www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012 15

D Segment

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Chevrolet Cruze ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.7D POWER RA NGE: 130bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A 117g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.6-7.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €21,495-€24,420 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: Not Available WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 7

MAKE/MODEL: Citroen C5 Saloon ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6-2.2 Petrol/Diesel: HDi/e-HDi POWER RA NGE: 115-200bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto/EGS ECO-BAND: A4-D 117-163g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-6.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €26,995-€42,345 MOTOR TAX: €160-€481 RESIDUAL: 29% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 25

MAKE/MODEL: Ford Mondeo ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 - 2.0TDCi POWER RA NGE: 115-160PS TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 114-149g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-5.6L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €26,295-€40,851 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 41

MAKE/MODEL: Honda Accord ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.2i-DTEC POWER RA NGE: 150-180bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: C-D 141-162g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.3-6.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €31,465-€43,056 MOTOR TAX: €330-€481 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 20

MAKE/MODEL: Honda Insight ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4 i-VTEC Hybrid POWER RA NGE: 65kW/88PS TRA NSMISSION: CVT ECO-BAND: A 0-96g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.1-4.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €23,200-€24,300 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 20

MAKE/MODEL: Hyundai i40 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.7D POWER RA NGE: 115-136bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 113-144g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-5.5L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €24,995-€31,994 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 32

MAKE/MODEL: Kia Optima ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.7D POWER RA NGE: 134bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B-C CO2 COUNT: 133-155g/km FUEL ECON: 5.1L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €26,996-€32,695 MOTOR TAX: €225-€330 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 7 Years DEALERS: 15

MAKE/MODEL: Mazda 6 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0 / 2.2MZR-CD POWER RA NGE: 129-166bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B-E 138-176g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.2-7.6L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €25,495-€32,525 MOTOR TAX: From €225 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 26

MAKE/MODEL: Opel Ampera ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol: Electric Petrol Hybrid POWER RA NGE: 150PS TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: A 27g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 1.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €46,995-€50,000 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: TBA WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 31

16 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

Leap into the new CRvVe with intelligent acti y 4x4 technolog The thrill of the ‘new’ is that you never know where it’s going to take you. The beauty of the new CR-V is that you’ll enjoy every second getting there.

The new CR-V helps you seize the day, and now comes with

Distinctive new design sparks your spirit of adventure New intelligent 4WD that senses the road conditions Tax band C with annual road tax of ¤330 New efficient engine that delivers over 50mpg

on cars registered by 31st Jan 2013

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Combined fuel consumption of 5.6–6.8 l/100km. CO2 emissions of 149-180g/km. \HDUV IUHH VHUYLFLQJ RU NP ZKLFKHYHU FRPHV ÀUVW DW SDUWLFLSDWLQJ GHDOHUV WHUPV DQG FRQGLWLRQV DSSO\ VHH +RQGD LH IRU PRUH GHWDLOV

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Opel Insignia ENGINE RA NGE: 1.4 Turbo Petrol/Diesel: 1.3-2.0CDTi POWER RA NGE: 130-160bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 116-149g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-5.7L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €25,499-€35,280 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 31

MAKE/MODEL: Peugeot 508 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 - 2.0HDi POWER RA NGE: 112-200bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 119-154g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2-5.7L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €25,025-€44,510 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 32

MAKE/MODEL: SEAT Exeo ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 120bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: B 129g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €25,750 MOTOR TAX: €225 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22

MAKE/MODEL: Skoda Superb ENGINE RA NGE: 1.4-1.8TSI/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 105-170bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A-D 104-168g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: From 4.4/100km PRICE RA NGE: €24,695-€38,345 MOTOR TAX: €160-€481 RESIDUAL: 34% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22

MAKE/MODEL: Subaru Legacy ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0TD POWER RA NGE: 150bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: C 153g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €34,495 MOTOR TAX: €330 RESIDUAL: 28% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 13

MAKE/MODEL: Toyota Avensis ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6-1.8/ Petrol/Diesel: 2.0-2.2D4-D POWER RA NGE: 126-150bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-D 120-165g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2-6.6L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €24,995-€38,165 MOTOR TAX: €160-€481 RESIDUAL: 34% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 51

MAKE/MODEL: Toyota Prius ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol: 1.8 Hybrid POWER RA NGE: 136bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: A 89-92g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.0K/100km PRICE RA NGE: €29,525-€30,795 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 51

MAKE/MODEL: Volkswagen Passat ENGINE RA NGE: 1.4 TSI/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 122-170bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A-B 114-138g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2-6.5L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €25,495-€38,895 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 37

18 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

D Segment Premium

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A4 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.8TSI/2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 120-177bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/M-Tronic ECO-BAND: A-C 117-151g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-5.3L/00km PRICE RA NGE: €33,100-€42,540 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 36% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: BMW 3-Series ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0-3.0/2.0d POWER RA NGE: 116-306bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-F 109-186g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-6.1L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €34,750-€60,260 MOTOR TAX: €160-€1,129 RESIDUAL: 36% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 14

MAKE/MODEL: Citroen DS5 ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6-2.0 Petrol/Diesel: HDi/e-HDi/Hybrid 4 POWER RA NGE: 110-160bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto/EGS ECO-BAND: A2-D 91-158g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.5-6.1L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €33,195-€48,195 MOTOR TAX: €180-€570 RESIDUAL: TBC WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 25

MAKE/MODEL: Lexus IS220d ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.2d POWER RA NGE: 150bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B 91-158g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.1L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €33,195-€8,195 MOTOR TAX: €225 RESIDUAL: 34% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 5

MAKE/MODEL: Volkswagen CC ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 140-170bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: B-C 125-144g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.6-5.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €35,255-€42,800 MOTOR TAX: € 225-€330 RESIDUAL: 39% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 37

MAKE/MODEL: Volvo S60 ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6T3/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 D2-2.0D4 POWER RA NGE: 115-215bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/G Tronic ECO-BAND: A-D 114-164g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.1-5.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €36,295-€47,395 MOTOR TAX: €160-€481 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 18

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz C-Class ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-1.8/1.8-2.2CDI POWER RA NGE: 109-204bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B-D 129g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.4-7.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €35,895-€54,685 MOTOR TAX: €225-€481 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23

www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012 19

Estate

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Chevrolet Cruze SW ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.7VCDi POWER RA NGE: 130PS TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A 119g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5L/100km PRICE RA NGE: TBA MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: TBC WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 7

MAKE/MODEL: Citroen C5 Tourer ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6-2.2 Petrol/Diesel: HDi/e-HDi POWER RA NGE: 115-200bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto/EGS ECO-BAND: A4-D 117-163g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.0K/100km PRICE RA NGE: €31,145-€45,045 MOTOR TAX: €200-€570 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 25

MAKE/MODEL: Ford Focus Estate ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.0 EcoBoost - 1.6/ 1.6 POWER RA NGE: 95-115PS TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 109-139g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2-7.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €22,585-€30,595 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 41

MAKE/MODEL: Ford Mondeo Estate ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 - 2.0TDCi POWER RA NGE: 115-160PS TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 114-149g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.9-5.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €26,295-40,851 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 41

MAKE/MODEL: Hyundai i30 Tourer ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4-1.6D POWER RA NGE: 90-11bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A 113-117g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.1-6.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €21,245-€23,545 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 28% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 32

MAKE/MODEL: Hyundai i40 Tourer ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.7D POWER RA NGE: 115-136bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A-C 115-144g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-5.5L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €24,994-€30,995 MOTOR TAX: €160-330 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 32

MAKE/MODEL: Kia cee’d SW ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.4 -1.6D POWER RA NGE: 90-128bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A 117g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.9-4.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €21,795-€24,095 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 7 Years DEALERS: 15

MAKE/MODEL: Mazda6 Estate ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.2MZR-CD POWER RA NGE: 129bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: B 139g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.2-7.6L/200km PRICE RA NGE: €28,995-€31,415 MOTOR TAX: €225 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 26

MAKE/MODEL: Opel Insignia Sports Tourer ENGINE RA NGE: 1.4 Turbo/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.3-2.0CDTi POWER RA NGE: 130-154bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-C 118-154g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-5.7L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €27,095-€36,480 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 31

20 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Opel Astra Sports Tourer ENGINE RA NGE: 1.4/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.3-2.0CDTi POWER RA NGE: 95-160bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-D 109-156g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.9-7.4L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €20,695-€30,195 MOTOR TAX: €160-€481 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 31

MAKE/MODEL: Peugeot 508 SW ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 - 2.0HDi/ Hybrid POWER RA NGE: 112-163bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A-C 107-150g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2-5.7L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €28,665-€47,850 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 5 Years DEALERS: 32

MAKE/MODEL: Renault Megane Grand Tourer ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.5dCi POWER RA NGE: 90-110bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A 104-114g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €20,890-€26,990 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: TBA WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 19

MAKE/MODEL: Seat Exeo ST ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 105bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: B 129-132g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.9-5.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €25,750-€27,350 MOTOR TAX: €225 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22

MAKE/MODEL: Skoda Octavia Combi ENGINE RA NGE: 1.2-2.0TSI/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.4-2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 105-200bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A-E 109-180g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.8-5.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €19,095-€34,795 MOTOR TAX: €160-€1,129 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22

MAKE/MODEL: Skoda Superb Combi ENGINE RA NGE: 1.4-3.6TSI/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 105-170bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A-G 110-237g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 3.8-5.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €26,695-€45,495 MOTOR TAX: €160-€2,258 RESIDUAL: 34% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 22

MAKE/MODEL: Subaru Legacy Tourer ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0TD POWER RA NGE: 150bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: C-D 149-168g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.7-6.4L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €37,495-€42,495 MOTOR TAX: €330-€481 RESIDUAL: 28% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 11

MAKE/MODEL: Toyota Avensis Tourer ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0 D4-D POWER RA NGE: 126bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual ECO-BAND: A 120g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2-6.6L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €27,595-€31,850 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: 34% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 51

MAKE/MODEL: Volkswagen Passat Estate ENGINE RA NGE: 1.4TSI/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.6-2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 105-170bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/DSG ECO-BAND: A-C 116-142g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2-6.5L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €28,730-€41,215 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 37

22 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

Estate Premium

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A4 Avant ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.8TSI/2.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 120-177bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/M-Tronic ECO-BAND: A-C 116-154g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-5.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €35,500-€44,790 MOTOR TAX: €160-€330 RESIDUAL: 36% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A4 Allroad ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0-3.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 143-245bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/S-Tronic ECO-BAND: A-C 152-161g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-5.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €46,690-€60,700 MOTOR TAX: €481 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A6 Avant ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 3.0/3.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 177-204bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/S-Tronic ECO-BAND: B 132-139g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.9-5.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €46,350-€57,230 MOTOR TAX: €225 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A6 Allroad ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 3.0TSI/3.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 245-313bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/S-Tronic ECO-BAND: F 159-206g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.9-5.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €63,80-€75,700 MOTOR TAX: €481-€1,129 RESIDUAL: 38% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: BMW 3 Series Touring ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0-3.0/2.0d POWER RA NGE: 116-258bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-D 119-159g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-6.1L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €36,620-€52,120 MOTOR TAX: €160-€481 RESIDUAL: 36% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 14

MAKE/MODEL: BMW 5 Series Touring ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0-3.0/2.0d-3.0d POWER RA NGE: 184-194bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B-E 133-183g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-10.4L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €51,790-€77,670 MOTOR TAX: €225-€677 RESIDUAL: 37% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 14

MAKE/MODEL: Jaguar XF Sportbrake ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 3.0/2.2-3.0D POWER RA NGE: 163-275bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: B-G 135-224g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.1-9.4L/200km PRICE RA NGE: TBA MOTOR TAX: €225-€481 RESIDUAL: TBC WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 7

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz C Class Estate ENGINE RA NGE: 1.6-1.8/ Petrol/Diesel: 1.8-2.2CDI POWER RA NGE: 136-306bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B-D 124-160g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.4-7.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €38,430-€66,620 MOTOR TAX: €225-€481 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 5.4/2.1CDI-3.0CDI POWER RA NGE: 204-557bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: B-G 139-235g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.3-10L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €70,590-€76,590 MOTOR TAX: €225-€2,258 RESIDUAL: TBC WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23 www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012 23

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From €25,995 avensis.ie

ON ALL TOYOTA CARS REGISTERED BEFORE JANUARY 31ST

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FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Volvo V70 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6D2-2.4D5 POWER RA NGE: 115-215bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-D 119-164g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.1-5.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €38,595-€57,695 MOTOR TAX: € 225-€481 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 18

MAKE/MODEL: Volvo XC70 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0D4-2.4D5 POWER RA NGE: 163-215bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: C-F 149-225g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.1-5.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €44,695-€65,595 MOTOR TAX: €330-€1,129 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 18

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A5 Sportsback ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0-3.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 117-129bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/M-Tronic ECO-BAND: A-B 136-159g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.8-7.0L/100 km PRICE RA NGE: €40,200-€54,380 MOTOR TAX: €160-€225 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A6 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 2.0-3.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 177-204bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/M-Tronic ECO-BAND: B-C 129-139g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.9-5.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €43,200-€57,230 MOTOR TAX: €225-€330 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: BMW 5 Series ENGINE RA NGE: 2.0-3.0/ Petrol/Diesel: 2.0d-3.0d POWER RA NGE: 184-306bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: A-E 119-183g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.5-10.4L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €42,880-66,545 MOTOR TAX: €160-€677 RESIDUAL: 37% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 14

MAKE/MODEL: BMW 6 Gran Coupe ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 3.0/3.0d POWER RA NGE: 320-450bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B-F 144-206g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.6-7.8L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €94,420-€123,500 MOTOR TAX: € 225-€1,129 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 14

MAKE/MODEL: Jaguar XF ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 3.0/2.2-3.0D POWER RA NGE: 163-275bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: B-G 135-224g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.1-9.4L/200km PRICE RA NGE: €44,820-108,250 MOTOR TAX: €225-€2,258 RESIDUAL: 34% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 7

MAKE/MODEL: Lexus GS ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol: 3.5 Hybrid POWER RA NGE: 345bhp TRA NSMISSION: CVT ECO-BAND: B-C 139-141g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 6.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €59,950-€76,250 MOTOR TAX: €225-€330 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 5

Executive

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz E Class Estate ENGINE RA NGE: 1.8-3.5/ Petrol/Diesel: 2.2-3.0CDI POWER RA NGE: 170-265bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B-F 136-216g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.2-8.8L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €48,520-84,785 MOTOR TAX: €225-€1,129 RESIDUAL: 31% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23

www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012 25

FLEET CAR BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Hybrid ENGINE RA NGE: Diesel: Hybrid POWER RA NGE: 204bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: A 109g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.2L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €51,020 MOTOR TAX: €160 RESIDUAL: TBC WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23

MAKE/MODEL: Volvo S80 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 1.6 D2-2.4 D5 POWER RA NGE: 115-215bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/G Tronic ECO-BAND: A-D 119-159g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 4.3-6.1L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €35,595-€65,995 MOTOR TAX: €160-˙€481 RESIDUAL: 33% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 18

MAKE/MODEL: Audi A8 ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 3.0/3.0TDI POWER RA NGE: 250-290bhp TRA NSMISSION: Tiptronic ECO-BAND: D-F 169-205g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.6-6.6L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €93,150-€98,850 MOTOR TAX: €481-€1,129 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 10

MAKE/MODEL: BMW 7-Series ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 3.0-4.4V8/3.0d POWER RA NGE: 313-544bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: C-G 148-314g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.6-7.6L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €88,200-€192,260 MOTOR TAX: €330-€2,258 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 14

MAKE/MODEL: Jaguar XJ ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol/Diesel: 5.0V8/3.0V6D POWER RA NGE: 275-510bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: E-G 184-289g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 6.0-11.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €90,835-€164,425 MOTOR TAX: €677-€2,258 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 7

MAKE/MODEL: Lexus LS 600h ENGINE RA NGE: Petrol: 5.0 Hybrid POWER RA NGE: 445bhp TRA NSMISSION: CVT ECO-BAND: F 219g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 9.3L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €154,700-€190,820 MOTOR TAX: €1,129 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 3 Years DEALERS: 5

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz S-Class ENGINE RA NGE: 3.5V6-4.7V8/ Petrol/Diesel: 3.0V8 POWER RA NGE: 306-435bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: D-F 164-219g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.8-9.9L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €98,35-€170,515 MOTOR TAX: €481-€1,129 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz CLS ENGINE RA NGE: 3.5V6-4.7V8/ Petrol/Diesel: 2.2-3.0V6 POWER RA NGE: 204-306bhp TRA NSMISSION: Auto ECO-BAND: B-G 134-408g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.1-9.0L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €67,570-€115,985 MOTOR TAX: € 225-€2,258 RESIDUAL: 30% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23

Luxury

MAKE/MODEL: Mercedes-Benz E-Class ENGINE RA NGE: 1.8-3.5/ Petrol/Diesel: 2.2-3.0CDI POWER RA NGE: 184-292bhp TRA NSMISSION: Manual/Auto ECO-BAND: B-D 129-165 g/km CO2 COUNT: FUEL ECON: 5.2-8.8L/100km PRICE RA NGE: €42,830-€64,745 MOTOR TAX: €225-€481 RESIDUAL: 35% WARRA NTY: 2 Years DEALERS: 23

26 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

LONG TERM TEST

Ford Mondeo Titanium 1.6 TDCi vs 2.0 TDCi

O

ld habits die hard, and although VRT and motor taxation are no longer directly related to engine capacity, Irish car sales figures continue to be dominated by smaller capacity powerplants over larger engined versions of the same model.

Take the Ford Mondeo as an example. By any standards this is a prett y big car, yet in the first half of this year 71% of Mondeo sales were of the relatively puny 1.6 litre TDCi diesel engine, with the 2.0 litre TDCi accounting for the remainder.

Granted, the 115 PS 1.6 TDCi Mondeo is a tax band A vehicle, with emissions of 114 g/km, whereas the 140 PS PS 2.0 TDCi falls into band B, outputting 129 g/km (there’s also a 160PS version with the same emissions). But with fairly negligible differences in fuel consumption, does saving a few Euros on purchase price and annual taxation outweigh the benefits a more powerful engine offers?

Fleet Car undertook a back-to-back comparison of two five-door hatchback Mondeos in identical top-of-the-range Titanium specifications, one with the 1.6 TDCi engine with Econetic stop/ start technology, and the other, our long-term test car with the 2.0 TDCi powerplant. As tested the smaller engined car retailed for €32,311, which included an optional Driver Assist Pack at €816. The 2.0 litre car cost €33,632.50, this price including a detachable tow bar for €637.50.

Extras aside therefore, the 2.0 litre car costs €1,500 more to buy new over its 1.6 litre sibling, while road tax will presently be €65 more per annum. While we don’t think that the later should be a real factor in making a rational decision regarding what car to buy, the purchase differential, while relatively small in terms of the overall price of the car, might be enough to put buyers off the more powerful engine.

So are there any benefits in forking out the extra money for the bigger engine? Well lets cut to the chase here and say that having driven both cars back-to-back extensively, we think that spending the premium on the 2.0 litre TDCi is

well worthwhile, particularly for a driver doing any amount of longer distances on our national non-motorway road network.

In fact we’d go so far as to say that the 2.0 TDCi Mondeo is a very complete car indeed.

Not that the 1.6 TDCi is a complete letdown – far from it. If you only ever drove the Mondeo with this engine you would think it a perfectly adequate performer. Indeed if you’re mainly doing stop-start urban driving, or, on the other extreme, spend most of your journeys cruising on motorways, you’re unlikely to miss the extra torque afforded by the bigger capacity unit.

Ultimately though, it’s that extra torque that makes the 2.0 TDCi Mondeo a much more enjoyable car to drive than the 1.6 version.

While the bigger engine does boast 25 PS more, it also has 320 Nm of torque compared to 270 Nm in the 1.6 TDCi. Not a huge difference you might think, but on the road, the 2.0 Mondeo is much more relaxed, with far fewer gear changes needed, and always having a surge of power when you need it. This is most noticeable below 1,500 rpm; where the smaller engined car feels very lacklustre, the 2.0 will readily pull away without needing a gearshift. It is noticeable also when overtaking, the 2.0 providing instant grunt, whereas you need a long clear road ahead of you before attempting an overtaking maneuver in fi fth or sixth gear in the 1.6 litre.

We’ve been busy using the 2.0 litre car pulling caravans around the country this summer for our sister publication Caravan Cruise Ireland, and have found it an excellent performer in this regard, notably its ability to accelerate at low revs, and cruise quite happily at 80 km/h in top gear. Sadly the lack of a towbar meant we couldn’t do a direct towing comparison with the 1.6 litre, though we suspect that car’s lack of performance at low revs would be magnified under towing conditions.

combined cycle figures for the 1.6 TDCi of 4.3l/100 km (65.7 mpg), while the 2.0 TDCi gets 4.9 l/100 km (57.6 mpg). Inevitably real life returns aren’t as impressive, but the larger capacity engine returned much closer figures in our admittedly limited test where we drove the two cars on an identical route with the same driver keeping to the same speeds as closely as possible. Over a combination of urban and rural roads, we returned 5.7 l/100 km (49.5 mpg) with the 1.6 TDCi, while the 2.0 litre was only marginally worse at 5.8 l/100 km (48.7 mpg).

This stacks up with what we have been managing to get out of the 2.0 TDCi over a number of months, averaging between 5.6 and 5.9 l/100 km depending on conditions (and driver it should be noted….). Certainly these figures would negate the argument of buying one engine over the other on fuel consumption terms alone.

Of the Mondeo itself, it remains one of our favourite cars to drive even though it is now getting on a bit design wise (a new model has been unveiled, although is not likely to arrive here much before 2014). Indeed anytime we sit back into it after driving other products, its ride, handling, beautifully weighted pin-point steering, and overall poise on the road make it stand out as a real driver’s car. It is extremely comfortable over long distances, while few cars offer as much interior and loadspace. In Titanium trim its not particularly cheap, but against that does come very well equipped. It might not be the most fashionable, nor stand out particularly from the crowd, but anyone wanting a hugely competent all-round car that won’t cost the earth to buy or run could do an awful lot worse than the Mondeo Titanium 2.0 TDCi.

What about fuel economy? Ford officially quotes

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

www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012

27

LAUNCH PAD 1

Latest Sante Fe a worthy addition to Hyundai range

T

he new Sante Fe which has just arrived in Ireland supercedes t he ver y successful second generation model, a defi ning vehicle in establishing the Korean manufacturer as a mainstream manufacturer. The outgoing car was particularly popular with families thanks to its seven seat offering, one of the few SUVs in its class with this capability.

Indeed Ireland accounted for the Sante Fe’s highest market share in Europe, with sales of over 8,000 units since its launch in 2006.

Longer and wider, though 45mm lower than the outgoing model, the new third generation Sante Fe is more spacious with 10% more boot space. Available in two or

Premium – are offered, while CO2 emissions for both 2WD (from 147g/km) and 4WD (149 g/km) versions start in tax band C. First on-the-road impressions are of a very soidly built, well equipped car, more upmarket than before, and offering a notably better driving experience than the previous model.

four wheel drive, Hyundai expects over 50% of sales will be for the all wheel drive models.

Th ree trim models – Comfort, Executive and

Prices start from €36,995 for the 2WD Comfort model to €49,995 for the 4WD Premium Auto version. 4WD models are available from €40,995.

Cathal Doyle

Latest Ford Fiesta - most technologically advanced yet

F

ord’s facelifted Fiesta arrives in Ireland bringing new levels of technology to the small family car sector, including the introduction of the acclaimed 1.0 litre EcoBoost petrol engine.

The Fiesta becomes the first European Ford to feature MyKey technology.

This safety feature enables the car owner to programme a key to restrict certain functions for inexperienced drivers, for example limiting top speed, and audio volumes and preventing deactivation of safety technology such as ESP and Active City Stop.

SYNC, Ford’s in-car connectivity system brings new levels of connectivity for voice-activated phone calls and music selection, and includes

rear and interior as well including a new range of colours.

Emergency Assistance which directly connects to the local emergency services in the event of an accident. Further safety equipment includes Active City Stop designed to avoid low speed collisions.

A more prominent grille and lights gives the Fiesta a fresh new face with detail changes to the

A normally aspirated version of the 1.0 litre Ecoboost petrol engine with 65 PS will be available initially, with 100 and 125 PS turbo versions available to order.

Two versions of the existing 1.25 litre petrol engine are also offered, as well as a 1.5 TDCI diesel and 1.6 TDCI diesel automatic . There will be three trim levels – Fiesta, Fiesta Zetec, and Fiesta Titanium.

The new Fiesta will retail from €15,550. Full prices will be unveiled when the Fiesta goes on sale in mid-December.

Cathal Doyle

New Skoda Rapid to appeal to cash-conscious buyers Although an addition to the Skoda range rather than a direct replacement of another model, the new Rapid is effectively supplanting the Octavia in the C-Segment category, allowing the replacement for that car, due here by the middle of next year, to compete more directly in the large family car market.

A saloon like hatchback, the Rapid doesn’t try to redefi ne the motoring landscape, but looks well set to appeal to drivers looking for a spacious, value-for-money family car. With prices starting from €15,995 up to €24,345, it is only slightly smaller than the current Octavia. Th ree familiar trim levels – Active, Ambition and Elegance are offered, although with the focus on value, customers will need 28 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

to opt for the Elegance spec to get ‘must have luxuries’ such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, electric rear windows and cruise control as standard.

While a 105 bhp 1.6 TDI diesel engine is likely to prove most popular with Irish buyers, the pick of the engine line-up in our opinion is the 1.2 TSI petrol unit. Available with 86 or 105 bhp, even the lower powered version offers plenty of poke while squeezing into the (pre-budget) lowest tax band with emissions of 119 g/km. At €3,450 cheaper than the equivalent diesel offering, Skoda has calculated that at current pump prices it would take fourteen years to recoup the savings on fuel alone. Food for thought.

Cathal Doyle

LAUNCH PAD 11

New saloon joins facelifted Opel Astra range

T

he Opel Astra has received a mid-life facelift including the launch of the new Astra saloon.

The new four-door is expected to be popular with Irish buyers as well as appealing to f leet buyers in the very competitive C-segment.

The smart looking new saloon completes the Astra family, joining the five-door hatchback, Sports Tourer estate and GTC coupe models, as well as launching the high performance OPC version.

There is also a new 2.0 litre BiTurbo CDTI diesel engine although there are no immediate

Facel i f t cha nges i nclude modifications to the front upper and lower grilles, new wheels designs and the availability of LED daytime running lights, while inside there are new fabrics, colours and décor mouldings.

Engines in the range include 1.4, 1.4 Turbo and 1.6 ecoFLEX as well as 1.6 Turbo petrol models, as well as 1.3 ecoFLEX, 1.7 ecoFLEX and 2.0 diesels.

plans to launch it in the Irish market. Prices start from €19,495.

The new Astra range is expected to go on sale early in the New Year with prices and full specifications to be announced near the launch.

Cathal Doyle

New Sportwagon joins all-new Kia cee’d line-up

L

ike the second generation 5-door hatchback, the new Kia cee’d Sportwagon is more sophisticated, more efficient, more refined and delivers a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor.

The new look takes in a new roof, side panels, rear doors and tailgate restyle. Overall its 4505mm length, 1485mm height and 2650mm wheelbase makes the cee’d Sportwagon stand out in the C-segment. When open, the new tailgate rises to 1888mm to allow easy, unimpeded access to the cargo bay area.

The model line comprises of two trim levels

under Band A. As per the 5-door cee’d, which was accredited a 5 star Euro NCAP crash test rating, safety is a priority. As standard ESP, ABS, Brake Assist, Hill Hold and Vehicle Stability Management systems are fitted.

TX and EX and available with either 1.4 litre (89bhp) or 1.6 litre (126 bhp). Both units come

“With a walk of just €800 from the hatchback we think that many consumers will be tempted to avail of the added space available that comes at no sacrifice to style and driving dynamics,” said Kia Motors Ireland M.D. James Brooks at the cee’d SW’s launch in Galway.

Jarlath Sweeney

Honda unveils the all-new 4th generation CRV

H

aving achieved sales of nearly 7000 units since its launch in Ireland in 1996, the CR-V sports utility vehicle has been an on-going success story for Honda. The latest fourth generation CR-V has just gone on sale in Ireland featuring a new four wheel drive system, and bringing significantly improved CO2 emission levels.

Although lower than the previous model by 30mm, interior passenger space has not been compromised, while the introduction of an easy fold-down rear seat system activated by the pull of a handle has increased the versatility of the CR-V. Featuring the 2.2 litre iDTEC diesel engine from the outgoing model, developments of

same. All engines feature Idle Stop technology and ECO Assist, designed to maximize driving efficiency. A 1.6 diesel and a 2WD offering will be launched towards the end of 2013.

An electronically activated ‘All Wheel Drive’ system weighs 17% less than the previous ‘dual-pump’ system and gives a faster response when there is a loss of traction.

There’s also a new electric power steering system giving better feedback at higher speeds. the powerplant have reduced CO 2 emissions from 171 g/km to 149 g/km for the manual version, and from 195 g/km to 174 g/km for auto versions, while keeping power and torque outputs of 150 PS and 350 Nm the

Available in SE, ES and ES Sport specifications including auto versions, prices for the CR-V start €37,795.

Cathal Doyle

www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012

29

NEWSLETTER

Road Safety Newsletter

Volume 3, No. 3 Winter 2012

Be Prepared: Drivers heading for the slopes

W

inter sports holiday makers are reminded to book their car hire in advance in order to make sure they get all the extras they need and benefit from the best possible rates.

“As the ski season in Europe gets into full swing, many will be looking for car hire to get around on a winter holiday.” says Ken McCall, Europcar Group. “However it’s important to remember that these countries present some quite different driving conditions to those normally experienced by motorists. So drivers need to be prepared before they arrive at their destination. In fact, in some countries drivers are required by law to equip their vehicle appropriately for winter, so it is vital for hirers to be aware of any requirements before they set out.”

Europcar has provided a quick snapshot of driving requirements in key European winter holiday destinations to help winter sports fans plan.

Italy According to regional legislation, those setting off for skiing in Northern and some parts of Central Italy between November and the end of April must ensure they drive a car fitted with winter tyres or have snow chains on board when driving on certain signposted roads. It is therefore advisable to have snow chains in the vehicle or ensure winter tyres are fitted when driving anywhere during this period.

Due to high demand in this area, Europcar recommends customers who require a car with winter tyres to book in advance to ensure availability. In addition Europcar Italy offers snow chains and ski racks as add-ons for winter car hire. Currently there is also a special offer available which offers 50% off ski racks and Sat Nav for cars booked with winter tyres.

Drivers should also be aware that if they rent a vehicle from another country and drive into Germany it will be their responsibility to have winter tyres fitted to the vehicle.

Europcar Germany also offers snow chains, as well as ski racks and ski bags as add-ons to a hire, however these should be booked at least 48 hours in advance and are more readily available at winter sport destinations in the south of the country.

Spain Better known for its sandy beaches and Mediterranean climate, Spain also has some great winter sports facilities, with 35 ski resorts across the country.

France A hugely popular destination for skiing during winter is France, and Europcar France offers additional winter equipment for its customers to meet this demand. Indeed certain vehicles on the Europcar France fleet - including some prestige models - come already equipped with snow tyres, and for other vehicles Europcar offers rental of snow tyres for an additional fee. In addition ski racks and snow chains are available as add-ons from certain locations, plus customers can purchase snow socks for use on their vehicle.

Germany In Germany, it is a legal requirement to have winter tyres fitted during icy conditions. Failure to comply with this can lead to a fine and, if you cause an accident, this fine can then be increased.

Between 15th November 2012 and 15th March 2013, all Europcar Germany’s vehicles are fitted with winter tyres as standard, however in the period running up to November or after March next year winter tyres will need to be booked in advance.

"We're The Sweeney, Son”

F

ollowing its movie debut in the crime thriller The Sweeney, the all-new Ford Focus ST has taken on its next starring role – this time as an official Police patrol vehicle.

While the five-door hot hatch used by Flying Squad detectives Regan and Carter was unmarked, this estate version gets the full law enforcement livery.

30 Direction | Winter 2012

With the Spanish sun still shining even during the winter months, snow chains are not always necessary, however Europcar Spain customers are advised to carry these in their vehicle. In incidents of bad weather controls can be put in place to stop vehicles without the necessary chains. These are available as an add-on to a vehicle hire from most Europcar Spain winter resort locations.

“Europcar’s rental agents will of course ensure they inform customers of any requirements for driving when they collect a vehicle” added Ken McCall. “But it’s always a good idea for customers to be prepared before they arrive to collect their vehicle, to avoid any last minute delays.

“The key to any winter holiday is preparation.

And that includes car hire from the airport to the resort. Booking early is the best way for winter holidaymakers to get the best deals and ensure availability of any extras they may need.”

The one-off demonstrator with 2.0-litre 250PS EcoBoost engine has been developed and engineered at Ford Special Vehicle Preparations (SVP) in Earls Colne, Essex. It can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 154 mph. Equipped as a compact traffic car, it meets the latest National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA) standards for fast response vehicles inside and out. The light bar on the roof is all-LED, and the dashboard is fitted with a mobile data terminal (MDT) and screen to illustrate the Focus ST’s versatility for multi-role police use.

NEWSLETTER

New law to test all road users for drugs will be introduced *Seminars in Dublin & Athlone to discuss implications

“M

anaging the Performance, Safety and Health Risks of Employee Drug and Alcohol Use” is the title of a series of Seminars taking place in the Ashling Hotel, Dublin on Thursday 31 January 2013 and in the Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone on Thursday 23 May 2013, to discuss the implications for business on a proposed new law to test all road users for drug driving, which was recently announced by the Minister for Transport, Leo Varadker T.D. A new Road Traffic Bill will be introduced which would include roadside impairment testing for drugs and the new law will have implications for those who drive in the course of their work.

Currently professional drivers who register a reading of greater than 20mg/100ml of alcohol are deemed not fit to drive and the proposed new drug testing will pose an additional threat to employee livelihood.

Research by the Medical Bureau on Road Safety (MBRS) indicates that driving under the influence of drugs is increasing with cannabis, tranquilizers, cocaine, ecstasy, opiates and amphetamines the most common drugs that show up in tests. Since 2007 some 5835 positive tests were detected but only 2912 were taken to court.

Section 13(1) b of the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 requires that an employee should ensure that he or she is not under the influence of an intoxicant to the extent that he or she is in such a state as to endanger his or her own safety health or welfare at work or that of any other person.

Section 19(1) requires that employers should assess the risks presented by those hazards and include them in a written assessment.

A further requirement under Section 20(1) of the Act is that the control measures for intoxicants should be included in the safety statement. Registration details at http://www. eapinstitute.com/drugalcohol.asp Announcing the Seminars in the Convention Centre, Dublin were, left to right, Paul Hoover, EAP and Aviation Behavioural Consultant, USA, Maurice Quinlan, Director, EAP Institute, Waterford and Gary McCutcheon, Operations Manager, Randox Testing Services, U.K.

Business mileage vision risk

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esearch conducted into the driver eyecare policies of businesses and organisations across the Republic of Ireland has highlighted a need for employers to take action. The recent survey untertaken by Specsavers Corporate Eyecare, revealed that 81% of companies in Ireland have employees who are required to undertake some level of business mileage. Yet, just 12% have a policy to test the eyesight of drivers. Even more alarming is that 7% of employers openly admitted to worrying about the eyesight of their employees who drive. With the likelihood of many employers not admitt ing to this concern and, more still, simple unaware of the quality of vision of their employees, the figures are disturbing.

across Ireland, this means that approximately 9,000 incidents would have involved employees driving in the course of their work. The ‘at work’ figures do not include collisions which occur during the commute to and from work and, as such, they represent a significant commercial and financial burden on businesses.

While driving law states that the individual must ensure they are fit to drive, there is dispute over where the responsibility really lies for someone who is driving in the course of their work. Onethird of incidents, injuries and deaths on the road are thought to involve people travelling for work.

In 2012 there were 27,000 collisions reported

“With low-cost eyecare vouchers readily available, responsible employers already have policies in place to ensure that their employees’ eyesight is good enough for driving. Reducing the number of accidents will result in significant business gains and financial savings. The human benefit is, of course, immeasurable,” commented Dona McLafferty, Corporate Account Manager for Specsavers Corporate Eyecare in the Republic of Ireland.

Telsis to make roads safer using lifesaving technology • Innovation aims to cut Text and Drive, Talk and Drive road crashes

Telsis says DriveSafe not only gives mobile networks a way of exercising social responsibility, but enables companies with vehicle fleets to enforce phone use policy and negotiate discounts with Insurance companies.

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ritish innovator Telsis has launched a simple new system that could cut the number of deaths and injuries caused by people texting and talking on the phone while driving. Texting and talking while driving claimed 23 lives and caused 74 serious injuries in the UK in 2011 and Telsis is urging mobile operators to make it easier for phone users to avoid the temptation.

Telsis DriveSafe automatically lets callers and texters know someone is driving and will respond later when they can do so legally and safely.

Text: Rob Van Dieten - rob@fleet.ie

Crucially, it works for all mobile phones, no matter what make, type or age, even if they are out of coverage or turned off . The system is already in use in New Zealand in an earlier text-only version where it has been praised by the Government and by the leading motoring organisations.

Texting has been found to make drivers 23 times more likely to cause a crash, potentially killing or maiming innocent road users. Yet this message clearly isn’t gett ing through to drivers - research conducted by Brake and Direct Line earlier this year revealed that nearly three in 10 drivers (28%) texts at the wheel and one in 13 (8%) do this at least once a week.

More details on www.fleetcar.ie/direction www.fleetcar.ie | Winter 2012

31

TEST

Volvo S80 D2 SE (Automatic) What does surprise is the performance of the 115 hp diesel in a car of this size. With ‘Sport’ mode selected the S80 is very lively and quick to respond, more in keeping with a 2.0 litre. Standard ‘DRIVe’ mode activates the stop/start cycle and optimises gear selection to reduce fuel consumption. The six-speed Powershift transmission works well, though when pushed performance could be a litt le more refi ned.

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olvo’s S80 is a handsome car and its distinctive styling sets it apart from many others in the segment, and well deserves a place in the executive section of the car park. Relying on the ethos of Scandinavian design, where everything works but we don’t shout about it - typifies the S80.

Volvo is also quietly saying that a large saloon, does not need a large engine. The ‘DRIVe’ version of Volvo’s S80 comes with a very tidy 1.6 litre diesel, and emission ratings of 119g/km, and slots it nicely into the current ‘A’ tax band.

The instantly recognisable body-lines and the powerful stance of the S80 is att ractive and helps to set the car apart. Clearly raising it out of the mass market sector and placing it up a few floors to mingle with the executives in the corner offices.

Arguably, we are becoming more safety conscious, and certainly more fuel conscious. The S80 DRIVe can meet both these requirements, the Volvo brand has become a byword for safe vehicles, and the D2 powered S80 DRIVe provides good fuel consumption from a large comfortable saloon.

On our motorway fuel test the Volvo returned 4.4l/100 kms at a steady 100 kph and 5.2l/100 on a general urban cycle. So the S80 would appear to tick all the boxes.

An exceptionally high level of standard equipment comes with the S80. In keeping with tradition many of the features are safety related, further enhancing the company’s image for safe motoring. Build quality is excellent, and comfort levels are fi rst rate in the well-appointed and quiet cabin. The S80’s ride quality is quite stiff and can be a litt le twitchy over poorly fi nished roads, although on good surfaces and motorway sections the car has a smooth assured feel one expects from the marque.

It may be reasonable to expect a car of this size to come with a standard 2.0 litre engine, believing anything smaller would leave it sluggish and ungainly. So the insertion of a 1.6 litre may disappoint those who desire a particular badge to embellish the rear boot lid. However the S80 SE model has a surprise under the bonnet.

It is also different, and this difference will appeal to many drivers. The S80 can stand far enough apart from the usual suspects without being outrageous, and without the owner having to constantly justify their choice of vehicle. Th rough its styling, and the attributes associated with the Volvo name - the car speaks for itself. These att ributes are then reflected back portraying the owner in a glow of assured self confidence.

The S80 SE may at fi rst appear expensive when compared to other executive saloons in the segment. However when compared like for like, the S80’s impressive list of standard features and reasonably priced optional extras - not forgetting the ‘A’ emission rating makes it a serious contender in the executive segment and difficult to dismiss in favour of the usual and more commonplace German brands.

Some Standard Features of Volvo S80 • City Safety • Home safe and approach lighting • ABS, EBD, Fading Brake Support • Inflatable curtains • Electronic climate control • ISOFIX att achment rear seats • Dual stage airbags • Side impact protection • Whiplash protection system (front) • Heated electric mirrors • Leather steering wheel and gear knob • Dynamic stability and traction control 32 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fleet.ie

LATEST NEWS

Exciting times for Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz Combining a 120 volt Lithium-ion battery with a four cylinder diesel engine, the battery is located in the engine compartment, meaning there is no compromise on load space. Indeed a determined effort has been made to make the E-Class Hybrid as similar as possible to its non-hybrid sibling, the 7” internal display the only difference to the regular car.

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ercedes-Benz has been busy in recent times updating and adding to its model range, and that trend continues with the launch of three interesting new models into Ireland.

and offers fuel savings of up to 26% over the equivalent outgoing car. At the other extreme, an AMG version, the A45 AMG will be available from Quarter 1 next year and promises four wheel drive, and the highest horsepower output for a four cylinder engine in its segment.

New A-Class targets compact premium market Leading the charge is the new A-Class, which goes on sale here this month. If the name is familiar, and the A-Class continues to be the entry model into the Mercedes-Benz brand, the latest generation car is very different to its upright, MPV-styled predecessor. Pitched directly at customers of BMW’s 1-Series and the Audi A3, it is a smart looking conventionally styled front wheel drive hatchback, 18 cm lover than before and with a sleek profi le that is recognizably Mercedes-Benz thanks to the large upright front radiator, and stretched back headlights. The German premium automaker hopes that it will att ract a new younger generation of motorists to the brand, and is the fi rst of five new models to come off the A-Class platform.

With a younger target audience in mind, there is a strong focus on interactive multimedia technology, and from early next year a Drivekit Plus for iPhone package will be available, allowing many functions and Apps from the phone to be played through the car’s infotainment system.

Competitively priced from €26,435 for the A180 petrol model, the A-Class will be offered in three trim levels, Style, Urban and Sports Pack. Urban and Sports Pack models retail respectively at premiums of €700 and €2,700 over the standard Style model.

Engine options range from 1.6 to 2.0 litre petrol versions, and 1.5 to 2.2 litre diesels. The majority of Irish sales are expected to be taken by the A180 petrol and, in particular, the A180 CDI diesel. Th is model, which retails from €28,500, has CO2 emissions of just 98 g/km

The results are a significant lowering of emissions and fuel consumption. CO2 is down from 130g/km to 109 g/km, while fuel consumption improves from an average combined figure of 5.8 l/100 km to 4.2 l/100 km. The best news of all is the price – the E-Class Hybrid will be available from €51,020 (pre-Budget and taking into account current rebates for hybrids), representing a price increase of just 1.3% over the regular car.

CLS range extended with new Shooting Brake

E-Class goes gr een with new Hybrid

If the new A-Class is a markedly different car to its forebearers, Mercedes-Benz spotters will have more difficulty in identifying the second of new models being launched by the brand. In fact a Hybrid badge is the only external identifier to mark the new E300 Bluetec Hybrid apart from the familiar regular E-Class, but in fact, this is a hugely significant model for the German brand. Available in both saloon and estate forms, Mercedes-Benz says it is the world’s first luxury diesel hybrid, with rival hybrids only available paired with petrol engines.

If the idea of trying to make an estate based on a sporty coupe might seem far-fetched, you only need to look at the new CLS Sporting Brake to see that such a concept can work. The Sporting Brake is a stylish luxury car derived from the CLS Coupe introduced in 2011, and with a useful load space of 590 litres (1550 with rear sears down) bringing practicality to the coupe styling. It will be available from €70,590 for the 250 CDI and €76,590 for the 350 CDI. Exciting times indeed for the three pointed star, and with further models such as the CLA Coupe, as well as an all new S-Class and small SUV GLA due for launch in 2013, the brand can look forward with confidence to continued market growth in the years ahead.

Cathal Doyle

Hyundai Cars Ireland appoint National Fleet Manager

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yundai Cars Ireland has appointed Darragh Brennan as National Fleet Manager. Darragh joins the company from the Fiat Auto Group where his position was National Fleet Development Executive and has over 22 years’ experience working in the Irish Motor Industry having worked at all levels for volume brands.

34 FLEETCAR | Winter 2012

Hyundai Cars Ireland is confident that with Darragh’s appointment, the Korean brand will become a serious player in the fleet sector.

The product line now includes the widely acclaimed i140 – the all new generation Santa Fe , the all new Hyundai i30 and i20 as well as an array of Commercial Vehicles, with more to come.

You’re an original. Shouldn’t your car be too? The All-New Volvo V40 redefines the premium 5-door hatchback. It inspires you with an interactive dashboard and driver settings that change according to your mood. It indulges you with a Panoramic Sunroof and luxurious features for driver and passengers alike. It supports you with Park Assist and all the innovative safety features you’d expect from a Volvo. It’s a car that’s never ordinary, always elegant and fabulously fun. Find out for yourself at your local Volvo dealer.

THE ALL-NEW volvo V40

INSPIRED BY YOU

Volvocars.IE The All-New Volvo V40 from €26,995. Model shown is the All-New Volvo V40 SE priced at €28,995. Terms and conditions apply. Delivery and related charges not included.

Fuel consumption for the Volvo Range in l/100km (mpg): Urban 4.6 (61.4) – 10.7 (25.7), Extra Urban 3.4 (83.1) – 6.8 (41.5), Combined 3.8 (74.34) – 8.3(34.0), CO2 Emissions 94 g/100km – 219 g/100km. All new Volvo cars come with a 3 year manufacturer warranty and 2 years’ roadside assistance.

THE NEW SEAT TOLEDO. ALL YOU NEED. FOR JUST ¤16,890*.

An exhilarating blend of Spanish flair and Volkswagen engineering, the new 4-door saloon SEAT Toledo boasts dynamic design lines, a spacious interior and cavernous boot - as well as Bluetooth as standard. With all of this, it now represents even more remarkable value for money.

TSI AND TDI ENGINES AT AFFORDABLE PRICES. Our range of TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines are among the most sophisticated available, which is why you will always enjoy superb fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions with all our models.

/QUALITY ENGINEERING /MEMBER OF THE VOLKSWAGEN GROUP

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SEAT.IE

*SEAT Toledo 1.2 TSI Reference OTRP ¤17,490 (¤16,890 + ¤600 dealer & delivery related charges). Model shown is for illustrative purposes only. Average combined fuel consumption for the SEAT Toledo is 3.9-5.4l/100km and CO2 emissions are 104-125g/km.

SEAT IRELAND Fleet Department Manager Mark Brady Block C, Liffey Valley Office Campus, Liffey Valley, Dublin 22 Tel: 01 8989850 Mobile: 087 6878943 Email: mark.brady@seat.ie www.seat.ie