ON THE ROAD WITH THE DELIVERY MAGAZINE

Renault Master

2010-09-06T14:11:00.001Z

The new Renault Master brings a breath of fresh air to the light commercial vehicle market in the UK, combining innovative technologies with strong functionality and economy.

The three key alterations with the new Master range from the outset are the cheaper pricing for front-wheel drive versions, the availability of a complete rear-wheel drive range up to 4.5 tonne and prominent, assertive front-end styling, which will be carried over to other Renault van models. With a style that is clearly businesslike, rugged and high in quality, New Master establishes a new set of standards for the Renault range of vans. The bold front-end design features a broad, painted grille and large, expressive headlights.

The muscular wheel arches and blunt bonnet convey a feeling of power, while the distinctive form of the asymmetric rear windows is one of New Master's visual hallmarks. The model's unmistakable rear lighting signature is founded on three triangular brake lights. The ruggedness of New Master is clearly evident in its proportions, prominent protective bumper, and broad side protection mouldings. The rear lights are wider than those of the previous model and give the vehicle a more grounded stance, while the larger door handles ensure a secure grip and improved strength in daily use.

Under the bonnet, the new generation 2.3-litre dCi engine has been engineered to meet the specific requirements of commercial vehicle users. The range includes three power outputs: 100, 125 and 150hp, and is identical for both the front-wheel drive (transversally mounted) and rear-wheel drive versions (longitudinal).

New Master shows just how much progress Renault has made when it comes to reducing the fuel consumption of its light commercial vehicles. Compared with the previous-generation Master, consumption has been cut by an average of 1 litre per 100 km in the case of front-wheel drive versions, and by up to 2.7 litres per 100 km on rear-wheel drive versions. Master’s advanced chassis has been tuned to be agile but also comfortable, both when loaded and empty. Active and passive safety equipment includes ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) as standard on all models while electronic stability program (ESP) is also standard on rear-wheel drive and optional for front-wheel drive versions.

The new Master can be specified in three wheelbases from 3.18 to 4.33 meters, four exterior lengths from 5.05 to 6.85 meters that allow for cargo load lengths on floor from 2.58 to 4.38 meters. There are also three interior roof heights from 1.7 to 2.14 meters, while load volume ranges from 8 to 17 cubic meters. Gross vehicle weight ranges from 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes, with maximum payload to 3.0 tonnes, depending on body. Loading the new Master couldn’t be simpler all models offer side sliding and rear access doors with large apertures making access for large loads and Euro pallets easy.

The cab interior has been completely re-evaluated. The additional 5.7cm in length has been used to enhance travelling comfort, especially for taller occupants. The design of the interior reflects the results of research into driving position ergonomics and practical stowage solutions.

The two-tone theme of the sturdy, high-quality dashboard is echoed on the interior door trim. All the stowage bins and controls fall readily to hand, even while on the move. Special attention has also been paid to the quality of the materials and the sub-assemblies, with materials and fabrics carefully selected to cope with the high standards of durability required for heavy-duty business use.

As you would expect, there is plenty of storage bins and compartments, which include a large, 7.6 litre glove box, practical storage compartments, trays and fixtures located in the doors, instrument panel, ceiling area and under the seats. The ride is comfortable for a big vehicle designed to cope with big loads and there's decent refinement along with a tight turning circle.

Clio RenaultSport 200 Cup

2010-09-06T14:08:00.001Z

The face lifted Clio provides an excellent base for this sporty model, which adds a racy gloss black stripe to the car’s nose. A diffuser mounted between the twin exhausts continues the sporting look but it isn’t just for show.

It reduces lift, pressing the tyres into the ground to generate grip. But you need to be doing 80mph for it to produce an effective load of 40kg, so it’s something that’s only really going to be of use on the racetrack. Our test car came in the pearlescent Alien Green shade exclusive to this car. It proved quite a head-turner, but those looking for a less adventurous paint job will be glad to know it’s also available in White, Storm Grey plus metallic shades. The Cup is designed for those who value driver appeal above all else and loses key standard equipment to save weight. None of this, apart from the lack of air con, matters and that can be added for around £565.

With its wider front track and bulging wheel arches, the Clio RenaultSport is one of the most attractive and purposeful hot hatchbacks around. The 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, tuned to produce its maximum power at high revs, at which point a deep chested roar fills the cabin.

So addictive is the noise that Renault has included an alarm that beeps as you race toward the engine's redline, reminding you that another gear is needed a useful tool when trying to match the car's impressive 6.9-second 0-62mph time. Changing gear itself is an action to be enjoyed, the six-speed manual possessing a short and precise throw. Brakes developed by Italian specialist Brembo (complete with vivid red callipers) are reassuringly strong, even after repeated hard stops.

The Clio's strongest point though is its handling. With lightening fast steering, high levels of traction and grip, and a chassis that can be made to alter its attitude mid-bend with a mere twitch of the accelerator pedal, this is a hot hatch of the highest order. The super direct steering, wrist-flick gear change and ever-willing engine all work with you rather than against you and I'm regularly choosing the long way home over the Motorway. The body control is sublime too and although very stiff remains utterly tied down, even over high-speed camber changes on roundabouts and suchlike.

On twisty roads, the Cup is a thoroughbred hot hatch. There’s a hard-edged, race-inspired accuracy to it. Body roll is virtually eliminated and there’s masses of grip, which makes it very reassuring to drive. Its phenomenal handling does come at the expense of ride comfort. Motorway driving is not much fun in the Clio Renaultsport, as the firm suspension gives a harsh ride. However, the racy nature is exciting, as is the howling, buzzing engine note all the way to the redline. The Clio’s appetite for tarmac is insatiable it claws at corners regardless of how quickly you tackle them.

On public roads, you’ll never begin to reach the limits of its abilities it truly shines on the track Its phenomenal handling does come at the expense of ride comfort. In order to keep the weight down and maximise its driving performance, the ‘Cup’ models avoid needless fripperies like electric mirrors and air-con. You do get a pair of comfortable, figure-hugging Recaro seats, 17 inch alloy wheels, leather steering wheel and a Thatcham category 2 alarm.

If you need your gadgets, opt for the non-Cup version. This adds climate control, cruise control, front fog lamps, electrically operated door mirrors, automatic headlights and those one-touch windows. The Clio Renaultsport 200 Cup is one of the best low-cost pure drivers’ cars you can buy. You might miss a few creature comforts, but it’ll put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

Renault Megane Sport Tourer

2010-09-06T14:06:00.001Z

The main strength of the new Renault Megane Sport Tourer is that it manages to achieve great looks without compromising practicality in any way whatsoever.

The Mégane Sport Tourer features identical frontal styling to that of the hatchback version, including the characteristic lines that swoop down from the windscreen pillars to converge on the logo at the centre of the bonnet. The slope of the roofline, the steeply raked rear screen and the elongated, rearward-sweeping side windows give this car an elegant, racy profile, and the longitudinal roof bars set off these fluid lines.

The extensive range of engines available illustrates the ongoing work Renault continues to put in to ensure that its customers profit from the market’s best trade-off between performance and fuel consumption, as well as lower running and maintenance costs and longer servicing intervals. The Mégane Sport Tourer is available with a wide choice of power plants, including three diesel engines that boast CO2 emissions of less than or equal to 120g/km and five petrol engines, which all figure among the best in their class.

In the cabin, the accent has been on the durability and quality of the materials, soft touch plastics line all of the upper cabin and the door trims and steering wheel, helping to make driving a relaxed affair. Thanks to its generous dimensions and elegant, dynamic styling, the car exudes sporting appeal without detracting in any way from its user-friendliness or carrying capacity, which can be adapted to suit a broad variety of uses. Providing a boot volume of 524 litres (up to parcel shelf) ranks it among the best in its segment. Total carrying capacity can be extended up to 1,595 litres with the rear seats fully folded, while access to the boot is facilitated by its low sill height: 561mm, the lowest in its class.

The driver, meanwhile, will appreciate the comfortable, practical driving environment. Front elbowroom figures among the segment’s best at 1,476mm, and the height-adjustable driver’s seat travels through a segment-topping 70mm.

The Mégane Sport Tourer range features a choice of two GPS navigation systems and a long list of high-tech equipment. The first, Carminat TomTom®, is a fully integrated navigation system and is ready to run as soon as the car starts.

It delivers all the functions expected of a top navigation system, including: precise, detailed maps, a large 5.8-inch screen, bird view display and reliable guidance complete with traffic information, alternative routes, speed restrictions, speed camera location alerts and a wide range of customisable parameters.

With a raft of equipment, most of which is more commonly associated with the next segment up: Renault Hands Free Card with automatic central locking when the driver walks away from the car, automatic handbrake, dual-zone automatic climate control with three temperature adjustment modes (Soft-Auto-Fast), directional bi-Xenon headlamps, innovative combined digital/analogue instrument display.

New colour-coded interface for the cruise control with speed limiter, customisation of the activation and adjustment of certain functions (daytime running lights, volume of audible parking proximity sensor warning), 3D Sound by Arkamys® audio system, connectivity: standard RCA socket and optional TunePoint system (USB and jack connections).

Drive along a challenging road and the Sport Tourer might not be a sports car, but it does acquit itself well. The steering is linear and precise and there is a good compromise between dynamics and comfort. Despite being supple, with good ride quality, the Megane Sport Tourer remains almost flat through bends and has plenty of grip. The fact the Sport Tourer also has an appealing design, decent handling and a wide range of engines helps its make a strong case against the opposition.

Renault Grand Scenic

2010-09-06T14:03:00.001Z

In the world of MPV’s the Renault Grand Scenic is one of the most popular people carriers on sale thanks to its blend of sharp looks, comfort and a spacious interior.

Not only is it available with seven seats, it offers great interior space along with an abundance of storage compartments and some genuinely useful family-friendly features such as Sleep Safe headrests to support the necks of snoozing youngsters. There is a wide range of engines available with a choice of three petrol and four diesel engines, including two newcomers a 1.4-litre, 130bhp petrol turbo and a 2.0-litre, 160bhp turbo diesel.

The more powerful petrol and diesel engines come with a six-speed gearbox while a semi-automatic transmission is optional. The engine range deliver strong torque and power from low engine speeds across a broad rev band in all driving conditions. Every day running costs are between 20 and 30 % lower than for comparable powertrains in the previous generation model.

With a high ride height and adjustable seats including headrests, everything is at hand to make your drive be it driver or passenger as comfortable as possible. Finding a good driving position is easy thanks to a steering wheel that adjusts for reach and height. The front screen is now huge, pushing the front pillar back and out to give a wrap around affect that’s good for the view out and brings plenty of light inside. Driving is smooth and easy thanks to light, well-weighted gears and pedals. There is a refreshing ease of use to all the various controls, the interior is roomy to say the least particularly in driver and passenger seat where you can fully stretch your legs and your arms. Seating is comfortable and the whole interior is well designed. The centrally mounted LED instruments are clear and easy to read while the controls are all logically laid out and easy to use, as is the electronic handbrake. As you would want from a carmaker leading on safety, this Renault’s up to the mark, packing six airbags and a full set of other safety and driver aids.

Even though the new Renault Grand Scenic is longer, wider, taller and sits on a longer wheelbase, it manages to seem more car-like, which is precisely what the designers were aiming at. On the open road, the Grand Scenic handles safely and predictably, with decent body control and a cushioned ride that irons out road imperfections well. It's great at eating up motorway miles and quite happy bustling along country lanes too. Thanks to low noise levels and a smooth ride, the Scenic is great for passengers. It doesn't roll round corners either so those in the back won't end up feeling ill after a journey down country lanes. There's plenty of room in the second row of seats for adult passengers, with generous legroom while the seats slide back to increase room further.

The third row is best for children but it still offers good headroom. Even with the third row of seats in place on seven seat models, (they fold into the floor when not needed); there is still enough boot space for a weekly food shop for a family of four. In five-seat configuration, the boot is massive and the middle row slides for extra boot or leg space - in addition, Renault has made the most of storage space wherever possible.

This includes under floor storage bins in each of the front and second-row footwells, and on some models, a large sliding storage box between the front seats and foldout picnic trays in the back. Five seat models get extra underfloor storage space in the boot. The new Grand Scenic does everything you’d expect of it with the usual flair, combining proper MPV flexibility and practicality with high comfort levels and respectable driving dynamics.

Peugeot Boxer U-Tail

2010-09-06T14:00:00.001Z

One vehicle many uses

This year at the CV Operators Show the centrepiece of the Peugeot stand was an innovative concept which demonstrates how a flexible modular transport and storage system can be added to a Boxer chassis cab. With many modern van fleet operators running a variety of different vehicles to enable them to undertake the many different roles expected of them.

Now Roadload have created an innovative conversion based on the Peugeot Boxer which enables a single base vehicle to undertake a range of roles. A converted vehicle can now be either a standard box van or a tipper, simply by changing the rear load module. The Roadload U-tail is based on a standard 3.5 tonne Peugeot Boxer van which is modified to enable it to accommodate a special removable rear load module.

This innovative design of the vehicle also eliminates the need for a rear tail lift or ramps for loading, making it easier and safer. The rear load module lowers within the footprint of the vehicle, reducing the space needed for loading and unloading. The use of a standard 3.5 tonne Boxer van also means that any driver can drive the vehicle and that there is no need for a tachograph or an operator’s license.

The standard box option, at 3.6 x 1.7 x 2.1m, provides over 11 m3 of carrying space with vertical sides and an unobstructed rectangular floor for a payload of up to 1.1 tonnes. The box can be lowered to ground level or raised to the driving position in about five seconds and does not need to be moved during loading, so the box can be loaded or unloaded as easily as walking in and out of a room.

The Roadload U-tail is fitted with hydraulically operated lifting arms which enable empty detachable boxes to be dropped off for loading while pre-loaded boxes are picked up for delivery. Cameras provide the driver with accurate alignment assistance for box pick-up. A universal multi-use vehicle, the Roadload U-tail carries its load between two side frames with no rear axle providing a flexible space with almost 1.5 tonnes of carrying capacity.

This can be used for the standard box or can just as easily carry a deck, a specially configured emergency unit, a mobile workshop and many other loads. A tipper unit is also being developed to allow full functionality for ground care and other applications. The use of the vehicle can be changed with the seasons or in response to changing requirements. For examples boxes can be prepared for different emergencies while the vehicle is used for daily operations. In the event of an emergency the correct response unit can be picked up within minutes and taken to where it is needed.

The load sits lower than on conventional 3.5 tonne vans, providing a smoother ride, less air resistance and reduces the overall height of the vehicle. The semi-air suspension on the rear wheels further smoothes the ride for excellent handling and protection for delicate loads. The 3.5 tonne GVW chassis can do many of the jobs currently requiring 7.5 tonne GVW trucks, allowing access where space is limited, providing better economy and tachograph free driving. A 4 tonne GVW option is also possible where tachograph is not an issue.

Its unique modular design, and the removable load, provide easy access to all components for maintenance and support cost effective repair or replacement of the modules in the event of accidents. The Roadload U-tail is an innovative approach relevant to all organisations needing fast, safe, loading and provides a level of flexibility for vehicle deployment unseen in other vehicle conversions which was unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC, on the Peugeot Stand.

The new Qashqai gives you more

2010-09-06T13:57:00.001Z

The strength of Qashqai’s appeal is reflected in its outstanding reception in the marketplace since launch in March 2007, it has turned into the fastest selling model in the history of Nissan Europe and over 500,000 Qashqais and Qashqai+2s had been delivered by the end of 2009.

Now the 2010 Qashqai is here, and its mix of hatchback size and small SUV height shows no sign of losing its appeal. The biggest visible exterior changes are to the nose, which features a sharp new bumper design, gloss black grille, updated headlamps and heavily sculpted bonnet. It’s sleeker than before, and the car looks like it weighs less. At the rear, new LED taillights bring the styling into the 21st Century and its boomerang shape takes its design queue from the 370Z sports car. Borrowing its name from a desert-dwelling nomadic tribe living near the Zagros mountains in South Western Iran, Qashqai is described by Stephane Schwarz, Design Director at Nissan Design Europe as an ‘Urban Nomad’. “It’s tough and compact for the city but sleek and agile for journeys away from the town,” he says. “That’s been achieved by fusing a light, elegant and sporty upper body to a tough, planted lower body.”

The dynamic exterior is matched by an asymmetric interior, providing a focused cockpit environment complete with deeply recessed instruments for the driver and a relaxing, airy space for the occupants. High seating positions provide the sense of security normally found in an SUV, yet Qashqai is a more dynamic performer with the accelerative and handling capabilities of a hatchback. The interior has taken a step upmarket with some subtle changes, which have a significant impact. Ambient lighting and a white on black TFT display between the dials add a feeling of quality. All major and minor controls have been wrapped around the driver, who is separated from the front seat passenger by an unusually high centre console. Incorporating a cutaway section on the driver’s side for the handbrake, the centre console also houses twin cup holders and a storage box with integrated sliding armrest. Cabin storage has been improved, and it’s now possible to fit a remarkable 15 cans of pop in the cooled glovebox. The seats themselves are sculpted in both front and rear which adds to the purposeful feel of the interior. In keeping with Qashqai’s sporting potential, the front seats have side bolsters with a high foam density to provide extra support when cornering. The rear seats, which fold on a 60/40 split, offer optimum comfort for two, but Qashqai is a full five seater with three-point safety belts for all occupants. Folding the rear seats to increase load space is simplicity itself. The base of the seat is fixed and all that’s required is a single-handled operation to fold each backrest section. When folded, the load floor is virtually flat from the tailgate to the back of the front seats. There is no need to remove the head restraints before folding the backrests. Thanks to Qashqai’s overall height and its substantial ground clearance, driver and passengers sit higher than they would in a conventional vehicle.

Boot space remains the same, with 410 litres up to the parcel shelf, 860 litres up to the roofline and 1,513 litres if you fold down the rear seats. The current line-up of Visia, Acenta, N-tec and Tekna trim levels will be continued, with highlights being the inclusion of Bluetooth telephone connectivity throughout the range, parking sensors and dual-zone climate control on Acenta, Nissan Connect navigation and media player from N-tec up and a Bose stereo and leather upholstery on Tekna models.

There are two petrol engines and two diesels, the first of the four being a 1.6-litre petrol with 113bhp, front-wheel drive and a five-speed manual gearbox. It can return 42.8mpg and accelerate you from 0-62mph in a reasonable 11.8 seconds. There is also a 2-litre petrol with 138bhp, which can return 36.2mpg and hits 62mph in just over ten seconds. It is available with front- or four-wheel drive and a six-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. The entry-level diesel is the 1.5-litre dCi, with 105bhp, acceleration to 62mph in 12.2 seconds and 55.3mpg average fuel consumption. Top of the range is a 2-litre dCi with 148bhp and precise ‘five squirt’ fuel injection technology, resulting in a quieter and cleaner engine. It’s the quickest Qashqai, with 0-62mph taking 9.5 seconds, and it beats both petrol engines for economy managing 44.1mpg in front-wheel drive, six-speed manual guise. Four-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission are also available.

Buyers after an eco Qashqai will want to wait a short while, as a 129g/km Pure Drive model is on its way, with economy of 57.6mpg. There’s invariably a wide gap in braking performance between an SUV and a conventional car with the 4x4’s higher centre of gravity translating into less controllability in an emergency as well as longer stopping distances. However, despite sitting higher than a rival hatchback, Qashqai’s braking performance is competitive with a traditional hatchback thanks to the most advanced braking and traction control systems currently available. Discs brakes all round with standard anti-lock (ABS) are boosted by Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). Brake Assist maintains maximum deceleration during an emergency stop while EBD constantly alters the front rear balance to achieve optimum brake performance, automatically compensating for differing load conditions.

From certain angles, it has the agility of a passenger car, from others the tough stance of an SUV. One thing is sure Qashqai is one of a kind, there’s nothing else quite like it on the road. Qashqai is an alternative to the norm. A fusion of different themes and concepts, it blurs boundaries and twists expectations. Its clear combination of sporting attitude with the space and ability offered by a typical compact SUV makes it stands out in its segment of the market place.

Renault's van range: More efficient, comfortable and economical

2010-09-06T13:49:00.001Z

The commercial vehicle market in Western Europe has been lead by Renault for the past twelve years.

Despite an overall drop of 28% in the market sector, the French brand still managed to pull 14.81% of the market share last year. Not content to rest on its laurels for this year they have just launched three new models, albeit that all are upgrades of existing well established and recognised ranges.

The biggest in every which way is the brand new Master which has undergone a major revamp on the styling front, as well as getting a totally new interior to offer impressive storage facilities and comfort for the business user. The new bold front end styling with large grille and new headlights emphasises a bold muscular approach to load carrying. New headlights go with this, as does a new larger rear light set-up with three triangular stoplights and better bumper protection. However, it is internally in the cab that the biggest change has taken place with a move to provide car style passenger comfort as found on smaller vans. Storage will no longer be a problem for those who require the cabin to be an office as well, with every inch of space being utilised with neat storage solutions. There is useful rotating laptop table in the middle of the seats, with concealed storage for said item in the top of the dash, which now incorporates a clever A4 clipboard. As a result, the Sat Nav, which is now a standard feature as opposed to an option, moves to the centre of the windscreen just above eye level.

Power comes from a new 2.3 dCi engine, which comes with a choice of three power outputs (100,125 an 150hp) all with six –speed gearboxes. Perhaps the biggest news here though is the option of a rear wheel drive version, which has allowed Renault to offer a fourth length to their long list of options. As well as increasing load capacity, the firm see it as offering more scope for those who wish to convert the van for other uses such a motor homes. You can now choose between four lengths, three heights and there are twelve carrying capacities, definitely something for everyone whatever the business! From a driving perspective, the vehicle is now very comfortable with good all-round visibility, although the high mounting of the Sat Nav did mean you had to avert your eyes from the road ahead, which was not always prudent on the tighter going of the test route! On the twisty country roads around Nice, there was little to split the front and wheel drive versions when talking about handling and the engine was just spot on in terms of power delivery and smoothness. However, the gearbox on the front wheel drive was noticeably smoother in operation.

Joining New Master in 2010 is the face lifted third-phase Trafic, which has been principally engineered to be more comfortable and driver-friendly. The dashboard has been redesigned to incorporate practical stowage spaces, while new equipment features normally associated with cars make life at the wheel even more comfortable. The 2.0 litre dCi version of Trafic Phase 3 also offers an appreciable reduction in fuel consumption. The revised Trafic delivers even more precise handling and enhanced ride comfort similar to that of MPVs thanks to the use of suspension technology derived from the latter type of vehicle. The combination of load sensitive hydraulic dampers and the variable rate suspension ensures a constant ride height and handling performance regardless of how much weight the vehicle is carrying. On the road it is as good as it always was, but it has certainly benefitted from the extra comfort levels.

Last up in the new line-up to test was the Kangoo Van Maxi, aimed principally at business users seeking maximum carrying capacity and flexibility within a compact footprint. The Kangoo Van Maxi has an extended wheelbase of 40cm, which, believe it or not, really does increase its versatility and load carrying ability. It is offered with two or five seats and is in a crew van option. It has very clever grille that automatically appears to protect the driver when the seats are folded flat for large loads. The 1.5 dCi engine has 85 or 105 hp options available depending on your load lugging needs. A morning pushing the long wheelbase around some roads better suited to a sports car showed that handling has not been compromised by the longer wheelbase and it is an excellent package for anybody looking for a smaller van with lots of carrying capacity. This latest addition means that Renault is the only brand in Europe to market a compact van that is available in a choice of three wheelbases, ensuring there is a version to match every type of business use.

At the same time, Renault is enhancing its business customer strategy with the launch of the new Renault Pro + network for the business user. Essentially a one-stop shop contained within a normal dealer with extended opening hours, dedicated business servicing facilities and a member of staff available purely for the business user to avoid queuing and time off the road. Each Pro+ dealer will have to stock a number of models and conversions for test. As a footnote, although all the new models mentioned are as green as you can get, if you want electric, Renault showed us a Kangoo Van with an operational range of 100 miles, which will be on sale next year! This zero-emission van will be particularly suited to business users looking for an optimised carrying capacity of three cubic metres and will primarily be intended for use in and around built-up areas.

Perfected for professionals the new Fiat Doblo Cargo

2010-09-06T13:47:00.001Z

Has anyone ever recommended something to you, whether it is a movie, restaurant or holiday destination?

I’m sure the answer is yes and no doubt when the time comes you would do the same, because when you like something and you are satisfied that it does tick the boxes, you want to share it don’t you. There always comes a time with clients that you are asked for recommendations and guidance on various subjects. Although we have what we call “Strategic Alliances” with many experts from all disciplines within the Fleet Industry that we use and recommend to benefit our clients, giving Fleet Management Solutions a full portfolio of services available to choose from. We do like to stay impartial when it comes to specific brands such as manufacturers etc as this makes us unique as an independent company as we have no allegiances to anyone. However, I was fortunate to attend the launch of a new LCV van, which will become available early March. Now the perception of me being an expert and knowing everything about vans and what one is better than the other is debatable. My strengths lie in the health and safety compliance and management of fleets for clients and if you read the article last month, you will know that this is an area that is more often neglected and even more so during this economical downturn.

There are certain areas that you need to look at when choosing a new vehicle especially a van, things like payload, economy, ergonomics, practicality and more. One of the areas that you may never have considered before was the safety aspect and what is available. Now there has been a great leap forward by all manufactures in this area in recent times with many features such as airbags and ABS being fitted to vehicles as standard. Now many of you will have at some point suffered by posture and comfort issues when travelling during your daily runs. Although I have driven many vans for various reasons over the years, I was never in the vehicles long enough and was glad of that aspect as I could see why many of our clients have issues with drivers and back problems. Therefore, I was surprised at the comfort and the attention to detail that the manufacturer had taken on the driver. The seat was very comfortable and easily adjusted and there was plenty room in the cab. Storage in the cab is great and very easy to access especially for all your delivery notes etc. There is also a lockable glove box, which is big enough to accommodate a 14-inch laptop. There are even two coat hooks on the bulkhead, which is great for hanging your Hi Visibility jacket. The interior has an attractive hard wearing and practical finish that wouldn’t look out of place in a family car. So the ergonomics were well thought out and the driver will have a great experience using the vehicle on a daily basis.

To cater for a wider range of commercial vehicle users than ever before, the Doblo Cargo will be available in six different body styles, short wheelbase with regular or high top bodies, a long wheelbase Maxi Cargo, the regular and Maxi five-seater Combi model, and the Maxi platform cab. To broaden its appeal there are two trim levels across the range base and SX. The high level of standard equipment includes power steering, height adjustable steering wheel, electric front windows, adjustable headlights, passenger seat undertray, side rubbing strips and central locking. Four engines are available, starting with a punchy 1.4-litre 95bhp petrol unit. However, with 95 per cent of sales expected to be diesel there are three all-new state-of-the-art and class-leading MultiJet engines in the range. These include a 1.3-litre 90bhp, 1.6-litre 105bhp and 2.0-litre 135bhp. All can be ordered with Start&Stop (standard on 2.0-litre versions), a first in this sector. Perhaps most importantly for the everyday user, Doblo Cargo’s innovative design means the load compartment is now roomy and square. All are 171cm wide inside and 130cm high while the high top is 155cm tall. Even the low threshold that makes loading simple is class topping. These dimensions mean two Euro pallets can be easily accommodated inside the Doblo Cargo. Payload too is segment leading at 750kg, with the option to boost it to 1000kg.

Now from my perspective I was interested in how the vehicle would stack up from a safety point of view. Yet again I was surprised that no stone had been left unturned in producing a vehicle that had the driver’s airbag and ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) as standard also with passenger and side airbags and ESP available as an option. The crumple zones are designed to shield the passengers from the worst-case scenario making the cab a safe place to be in. Whilst driving the vehicle the large windscreen made for excellent all round visibility. There are many options available that would make the driving experience better, parking sensors, air con, climate and cruise control. However by far the best introduction is the Blue&Me hands free system option, although this is a must for me. It can include TomTom and the whole system works as a control centre for mobile communications and navigation. The driver can access the voice activating system easily and safely via the steering wheel. This interface is fantastic and allows the driver to stay compliant with the law and the company compliant with the legislation.

Another thing, how many times have you tried to open the doors of the van fully laden or with gloves on and the grief that this can cause, well they have made them easier to open even the rear doors can be opened with one finger. The loading area has six hooks on the floor to allow for securing the load easily and they even have as an option a handy detachable torch to allow for extra lighting if required. The threshold of the rear compartment is one of the lowest in its class and will help with the manual handling issues normally associated when loading the vehicle. There is so much I could go on about regarding other areas such as the economy, value for money, but I won’t, as the main point I am trying to get across is the active and passive systems used to ensure that not only the driver and passenger are protected but the load too. In summary then if you are looking at changing your van in the near future have a look at the Fiat DOBLO, as I am sure that this will be a winner and tick all the boxes that you require. It is a vehicle that will lead where others will follow. When looking at it from a health & safety compliance view this vehicle ticks the boxes for me and it can for your business and employee too.

Citroën C3 Picasso

2010-07-06T13:43:00.001Z

The spirited Citroën C3 Picasso takes an exciting new direction in body design, blending the roomy, versatile shapes of an MPV with the quality, agility and comfort of a family hatchback.

From the outside, the C3 Picasso’s cube-like body shape, with its short overhang at the front and rear, instantly communicates the important design focus placed upon maximising internal space, whilst the smooth, rounded curves that soften the contours of the body form an expression of fluidity and purpose, and make it easy to park.

The C3 Picasso is available with a choice of four 5-speed manual engines from launch – two new petrol engines, which have been co-developed with BMW and two well established HDi diesel units – allowing drivers to select their ideal blend of agile city performance and long-distance fuel economy. The two petrol units – VTi 95 and VTi 120 – combine efficient economy with responsive performance and lowered CO2 emissions. Both diesel engines – the HDi 90 and HDi 110 DPFS – are from Citroën’s impressive HDi line up boasting near 60mpg fuel economy and low combined-cycle CO2 emissions. The HDi 110 also features an ‘overboost’ function that increases turbo pressure when an extra burst of power is needed. Citroën’s HDi diesel range can also be run on up to 30% bio-diesel, without modification.

Offering value for money at a competitive price, the entry-level VT model features generous levels of standard equipment such as an MP3-compatible CD player with steering wheel mounted controls, electrically adjustable door mirrors, front electric windows and a trip computer. At the heart of the range, the VTR+ trim gains smart 16” alloy wheels, air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter as well as additional airbags, a child surveillance mirror and three retractable rear head restraints. The range-topping Exclusive model offers premium levels of design and comfort with additional equipment such as dual-zone automatic air conditioning, rear parking sensors, automatic rain-sensitive windscreen wipers, a completely flat folding front passenger seat, ski flap, dark tinted windows and smart leather and chrome touches throughout the interior.

Citroën MPVs are renowned for their light and airy cabin environments and this new model is no exception. The expansive use of glass, which is almost continuously wrapped around the car – as well as over it with the optional 1.2m panoramic roof – hints at the bright and spacious environment of the car’s cabin, as well as the excellent all-round visibility. Stepping inside, occupants are greeted by a light and airy interior with an immediate perception of quality and comfort, courtesy of the soft dashboard surface materials, thoughtfully considered decors and layout of the graining. The slim design of the front seats not only increases cabin room but the pronounced and inviting contours also offer excellent support and comfort.

Thanks to the car’s vertical rear the C3 Picasso’s huge boot is the biggest in its segment with a record-breaking 500-litre VDA aperture with all five seats in place and 1506-litres with the rear bench folded completely flat. Magnetic flaps, fitted in the backs of the rear seats, fold out to extend the flat surface between the bench and the boot floor – a simple but intelligent design feature.

Providing reassuring support in difficult driving situations, the C3 Picasso boasts high-level active safety with exceptionally surefooted road manners and a high-performance braking system. All models feature ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Braking Assistance (EBA) and there is also an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) available with an ASR traction control system, ensuring surer stability around corners and improved control in reduced-grip conditions. Appealing to young families and older, active individuals, the C3 Picasso is an attractive package, combining stylish and bold good looks, a pleasurable driving experience, unrivalled space, adaptable storage options and value for money.

ALL NEW VAUXHALL MOVANO

2010-05-06T13:41:00.000Z

The second incarnation of the Vauxhall Movano brings a breath of fresh air to the light commercial vehicle market in the UK, combining innovative technologies with strong functionality and economy.

The launch of the new Movano also heralds the start of an ambitious drive by Vauxhall to strengthen its commercial vehicle offering. The company is escalating its activities in an area where it has an impressive tradition and proven expertise, with plans to double annual sales volume of Movano in the

. Customers for Vauxhall’s second generation Movano will be spoilt for choice when the new van goes on sale in May, with no less than 29 different body styles to choose from once all variants have come to market.

Commenting on the launch of the new Movano Duncan Aldred Managing Director at Vauxhall Motors said, “The commercial vehicle market is of great strategic importance to us,” “The rejuvenation of our product offer in this important commercial vehicle segment clearly reflects our ambitions to grow in this area and to strengthen our market position. This also includes focused improvement and reinforcement of our sales and dealer network. “The new Movano plays a key role in our sales plans for 2010. We believe that with its combination of a wide selection of variants and low operating and maintenance costs, the new Movano has what it takes to establish itself at the top of the light commercial vehicle segment.” “Movano drivers can also expect to be among the happiest and most comfortable when they get behind the wheel with special attention having been paid to cabin comfort and ergonomics, as well as to the cargo space areas.” “A new range of fuel-sipping common rail diesel engines ensure operators will be just as content.”

The Movano’s balanced proportions in profile highlight the vehicle’s solidity and quality in terms of function, look and feel, with sculpted wheel arches, distinctive protective side moulding and bold ergonomic door handles. Bumpers and rear lights, too, are wrapped around the side of the body, adding to the harmonious look while also offering additional protection to the body. Under the bonnet, a new generation of 2.3 CDTi four-cylinder common-rail diesel engines combine strong performance with low operating costs. Three power outputs are available: 100PS/285 Nm, 125 PS/310 Nm and 150PS/350 Nm. All engines come with a six-speed gearbox as standard and are Euro 4 or Euro 5 (with DPF) compliant. The 125PS and 150PS versions can be coupled with the semi-auto Techshift transmission. Fuel consumption is of course a critical part of any van’s overall running costs; new Movano’s consumption starts at 35.3mpg for the 3.5t L2H2 100PS version with 211 g/km CO2. Increased fuel efficiency isn’t the only way new Movano owners will save money. The new engines are now designed with a 250,000-mile lifespan while extended mileage service intervals and reduced maintenance costs are an added bonus.

The modular platform, developed jointly with Renault, comes with front or rear-wheel drive depending on payload category. Rear-wheel drive variants can be ordered with twin wheels at the rear. The new Movano will offer a wider selection of variants than most of the competition, as well as a tailor-made model for nearly every potential customer profile. The full range includes panel van, doublecab and Combi versions, chassis cabs with standard or crew cab, platform cab, three wheelbases, four vehicle lengths and three roof heights. New Movano is also an excellent base for conversions and will be available ex-works as a tipper, dropside and box van. The new Movano can be specified in three wheelbases from 3.18 to 4.33 meters, four exterior lengths from 5.05 to 6.85 meters that allow for cargo load lengths on floor from 2.58 to 4.38 meters. There are also three interior roof heights from 1.7 to 2.14 meters, while load volume ranges from 8.0 to 17 cubic meters. Gross vehicle weight ranges from 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes, with maximum payload to 3.0 tonnes, depending on body. The new Movano is also an excellent vehicle for towing. Depending on the variant, towed weight can reach up to 2.5 t (FWD and RWD versions with single rear wheels) or 3.0 t (RWD with dual rear wheels).Loading the new Movano couldn’t be simpler. Front-wheel drive variants feature low sill heights while all models offer side sliding and rear access doors. Large door apertures make access for large loads and Euro palettes easy.

Cab comfort and safety has been enhanced in a number of areas such as driver visibility, multi-adjustable seats (in various configurations) and an adjustable steering column that allows for relaxed driving on the longest journeys. Meanwhile the options list for the new Movano has really moved the game on with items such as static cornering lights, a centre seat back that folds into a work surface and a rotating laptop table. As you would expect, there is plenty of storage bins and compartments, which include a large, 7.6 litre glove box, practical storage compartments, trays and fixtures located in the doors, instrument panel, ceiling area and under the seats. Together, they provide easy reach storage of typical work items such as A4-sized folders, lunchboxes; drink bottles (up to 2 litres) thermos flasks, CDs, mobile phones and work boots.

Movano’s advanced chassis has been tuned to be agile but also comfortable, both when loaded and empty. Active and passive safety equipment includes ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD) as standard on all models while electronic stability program (ESP) is also standard on rear-wheel drive and optional for front-wheel drive versions. Passive safety features include front airbags, side airbags integrated in the seats (optional) and seat-belt pretensioners.

To celebrate the new van’s launch, Vauxhall is giving away £1,400 worth of options, to include air conditioning, a multi-function trip computer, vehicle alarm and Bluetooth connectivity. Known as the Launch Pack, it will be offered on new Movano’s until July 31 this year.

The Delivery Magazine Reviews The Nissan NV200 Van

2009-10-06T15:00:00.000Z

Europe’s small van market is extremely competitive. To succeed, a van needs to be compact on the outside but roomy inside with a design that’s both stylish and practical. It needs to be affordable to buy and have low operating costs. It must to be easy to drive and it needs to be flexible. NV200 is all those things, well rounded and versatile, can tackle long journeys with ease but also excels when it comes to city driving. It is refined and comfortable while the light steering and tight turning circle make it perfect for tackling more built up areas and getting out of a tight squeeze. Power comes from an 86bhp 1.5-litre diesel engine, which performs well with a good amount of low down power and a smooth nature. Light steering and a precise five-speed gearbox make the NV200 ideal for driving in built up areas and narrow streets, while it also performs well on windy roads with neat and controlled cornering. It's extremely quiet on the road with very little wind and engine noise, even at higher speeds.

New from the ground up, the NV200 reinvents Nissan’s approach to this sector of the LCV market by setting new standards for interior cargo space, but packaged in extremely compact exterior dimensions. Those compact exterior dimensions – 4.4m long, 1.86m, tall and 1.69m wide. Built on a modified version of Nissan’s flexible B-platform, NV200 is designed to be agile around town, with a commanding driving position and good visibility. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, intelligent packaging delivers a cargo load bay more than 2m in length, sufficient to carry two standard Euro pallets at the same time. Thanks to a low floor, the load cube offers a cargo volume of 4.2m3, around 25 percent greater than its key rivals, which equates to around 1m3. Practical touches include the availability of twin sliding side doors and, a pair of side-hinged ‘French’ rear doors.

The inside of the NV200 has a feel of quality with many parts of the cabin shared across other Nissan car models. To create more cockpit space the gearlever extends from the two-tone wrap around centre consol. A high and upright seating position makes visibility very good while the seats offer plenty of support making it comfortable for long journeys. There is plenty of storage space too. Both the driver and passenger get a cup holder on the dash as well as in the central console, while there is a good-sized dashtop cubby - ideal for keeping paperwork handy - plus extra hidden stowage between the two seats. There is also enough space to hide a camera, mobile phone or other valuables within the upper portion of the glove box and there is also a drawer under the driver's seat to keep more important things hidden away. Other car like features include Nissan’s Intelligent Key, power windows, ESP, anti- lock brakes with brake assist (BA), driver and passenger airbags and EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution), as standard.

The NV200 has been designed so that if it is damaged, it will be quick and easy to repair - cutting down on costs. Service intervals are every 12,000 miles and can be carried out at one of the Nissan commercial vehicle specialist dealerships or at one of the six centres run in partnership with Volvo Truck that offer 24 hours service. The NV200 feels well built, is unlikely to let you down with the interior being rugged enough to withstand daily knocks, and scrapes. Customers will appreciate the NV200 as a tool, which supports them in their business.

The Delivery Magazine Reviews The Renault Mégane Hatch

2009-09-01T15:11:00.000Z

With its eye-catching design, the new Renault Mégane Hatch delivers a real promise of both dynamism and reliability. Renault has a knack when it comes to design the company is very good at emphasising width through clever curves and smoothly integrated bumpers, while retaining the essence of Renault. The front view of the new Mégane Hatch is a case in point. Swooping, steeply raked headlights enhance the seemingly upturned grin of the large grille and forceful lines, with the new Mégane Hatch, the mix of seduction and spottiness is clear to see. The new Mégane Hatch features a range of powertrains that respond to the demands of today’s motorist. The dCi diesel and TCe petrol units have been significantly revised to combine fuel efficiency and driving pleasure and are tuned to deliver torque and power across a wide rev band in all driving conditions. Once on the open road, the dynamics, agility and performance of the car reveal themselves offering plenty low-down torque and loads of power for overtaking at motorway speeds.
At the front of the Renault Mégane's cabin, the dashboard has been designed to give the impression that it is floating. The no-nonsense layout of the controls on the centre console, provide a focal point to the bowed fascia that bulges out to meet the tunnel console and gearshift. A glossy trim section forms a border on the passenger side, marking the point between the deep fascia top and the top of the glove box. Where a satellite-navigation system is fitted, the 7-inch colour-screen occupies a central position atop the dashboard, in line of sight and next to the heavily cowled instrument panel. The main feature of this area is a large central dial with a white face and chrome bezel, in which are displayed a digital speedometer, oil temperature, fuel gauge and door-open diagram, in a fine graphic format. It is quite unusual and very easy to read. The front seats are well bolstered and sporty, providing plenty of support during enthusiastic driving and comfort for more subdued journeys. Behind, there is adequate legroom for adults to sit in comfort and the two outer seats have ISOFIX child-seat mounting points. Generally, the Mégane's interior ambience is one of controlled enthusiasm. The well-finished cabin is fairly light and airy. Although the new Renault Mégane Hatch is, a little less radical in its styling than the previous model it still has all the drivability characteristics, which is a good thing.

The Delivery Magazine Reviews The Vauxhall Insignia

2009-07-01T15:04:00.001Z

The Insignia represents a transformation from Vauxhall's previous large family car, the Vectra. It is a far more stylish looking car in all its guises, but the estate version, called Sports Tourer, is perhaps the most handsome. Quality levels match the best available and the Insignia feels more upmarket than the car it replaced. Most Insignias will use one of the diesel engines offered - a 2.0 CDTi available in either 130bhp or 160bhp outputs. The performance is competitive and the 130bhp version will sprint from 0-60mph in less than 11 seconds, while the 160bhp engine takes 9.3 seconds. Standard transmissions for these engines are six-speed manuals, but they are also available with a six-speed automatic. The entry-level engine is a 1.8-litre petrol engine boasting 140bhp and it's quite a lively engine with almost as much power as many other 2.0-litre engines. New to the Insignia, range with the Sports Tourer is a 180bhp 1.6-litre turbo. It offers extra performance over the standard 1.8-litre engine. Above it in the range sits, a 2.0-litre turbo with 220bhp and at the top is a 260bhp 2.8-litre V6. The top of the Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer range is the Elite, which comes with the choice of charcoal or beige leather-clad seats, which are an option on the SRi, and very comfortable. The hide adds a touch of class to an already superior feeling cockpit. The nicely curved fascia seems to wrap around the front occupants and at this level, the wood-effect trim shows off the soft-touch materials and the chrome highlights to best effect. The centre console tapers out from the central tunnel where the rotary control panel is situated alongside the gearshift and broadens to accommodate the main control panel, which features an array of large, businesslike buttons. Above this is the navigation and information screen flanked by the central air vents. The steering column is adjustable for rake and reach and just behind it, the instrument dials are shrouded by chrome binnacles, adding to the smart appearance. The driver's seat is electronically adjustable and the parking brake was electronic, too. The Elite level also includes dual-zone climate control, Intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting, front fog lights, powered folding door mirrors, front, and rear parking sensors. When it comes to drivability, the Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer is one of the best in its class and that, together with the interior ambience and space, is what makes it a winner with discerning drivers.

Vauxhall Combo

2009-05-29T12:11:00.002Z

This Vauxhall Combo 1.3CDTi is fitted with an Easytronic gearbox – for seamless shifts. This minivan comes equipped with common rail diesel technology and these power plants are more frugal now than ever before. Today a 1.3-litre can offer as much power and torque as a 2.0-litre or even a 2.5-litre of the mid 1980s. With more owner operators than ever before, a van not only has to do the job, but also has to make the driving environment a decent one. Therefore, when it comes to selecting a light van, Vauxhalls Combo would figure on many operators’ shortlists. Attractive upfront pricing and reliable mechanicals make it a trusty little workhorse.

The Combo comes with plenty of power for a small van - 70bhp on tap at 4,000rpm - more than enough to get you around the urban jungle does. Under the bonnet, you have a 1,248cc Ecotec-4 four-cylinder 16-valve double overhead cam engine generating 125 lb/ft of torque. The engine is mated to the Easytronic gearbox, which sets this van apart from rivals. The ‘box is an optional extra on the Combo range – but it will make your driving experience so much easier. It’s a five-speed manual gearbox with a fully auto mode. In manual, you simply push the lever forward or back to shift gear up or down. The facia display shows you what gear you’re in – 1-5 N for Neutral or A for Auto. Switch to fully automatic mode and it has many of the features of a regular automatic including a kick-down function. The ride and handling of the Combo performs well in both the urban environment and outer urban as the Combo is fitted with an independent front suspension, this includes Macpherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar.

The Combo is ideal for those who appreciate a roomy van with a dynamic and economical performance. The seats are comfortable enough and the driver’s is set fairly high so that those doing multiple drops can slide in and out easily without risking back pains. The cab and the cargo area are smoothly integrated into one aerodynamic shape, the higher windscreen giving an airier feel to the cabin. For those of us used to the Corsa car, the cab interior is no surprise, except for the higher roofline, which has allowed the provision of a full-length shelf overhead, to hold folders, clipboards or other books. Combo’s payloads vary from 743kgs to 803kgs depending on the model chosen and the load floor is low and flat, meaning that items can be slid in and out with ease. The critical measurements are a 1.79-metre long load length in an area 1.38 metre wide. Maximum load height is 1.19 metres, while the distance between the wheel arches is 1.13 metres, which will allow a Euro Pallet. There’s a neat gizmo available as an option in the partition grid, which allows the passenger side section to be hinged over the folded passenger seatback, giving a load length for part of the vehicle to 2.7 metres. They call this FlexCargo, and the hinged section acts as a protection from side load to the driver. Even without this system, the hard backed passenger seat when folded makes a very useful tabletop for an operator to do paperwork or even use a laptop.

Inside and out the Combo has been well built, service intervals are in principle set at 30,000 miles/two years, but you’ll be pleased to know you won’t have to write this down as there is a built-in monitoring device to warn you if your van needs to visit the service department. Vauxhall provides a three-year/60,000 mile warranty with no mileage limit in the first year.The deep plastic front skirt and rear wraparound bumpers should absorb a lot of the knocks and nudges, which are part and parcel of the workday.

Citroen C5 Tourer

2009-05-29T11:47:00.001Z

Citroen has succeeded in giving the all-new C5 Tourer a prestige image with a more sculptured and muscular styling lines for the long, sleek body. All it has to do is convert the new image into sales. Sharing the front-end styling of the saloon version the Tourer is characterised by a sculpted rear that unites style with load space. At 4.83m long and 1.86m wide, the Tourer maintains the elegant front appearance of the Saloon, but with added room and functionality at the rear.

The C5 looks a classy vehicle and the plush and well-equipped interior is a considerable move up-market. It feels a true five-seater, bordering on ‘premium’ class and there is a huge load area in the Tourer. For the driver the new C5 introduces the second-generation fixed-centre controls steering wheel introduced first with the C4 models. Standard equipment includes stability control, seven airbags, a collapsible pedal assembly to reduce foot injuries in an accident, cruise control with speed limited and air conditioning. Citroen say particular attention has been paid to soundproofing, so the ride is as quiet as it traditionally comfortable with big Citroen passenger cars. Next to the very acceptable styling changes the quietness within the C5 from engine and road noise are the most praiseworthy features and the laminated acoustic glass significantly cuts down on wind noise.

The C5 range is offered in a choice of three trim levels- SX, VTR+ and exclusive and just like the saloon; the Tourer is extremely well specified. There is a wide choice of engines in keeping with the varied requirements of fleet, business and retail customers. Petrol engines are the 127bhp 1.8i and 143bhp 2.0i-litre units and there are four turbodiesel units with 110, 138, 173bhp outputs and a V6 208bhp unit. Automatic transmission options are also available for some models, depending on equipment specification, with 2.0-litre petrol, 2.0-litre and 2.7-litre V6 diesel engines. The diesel units, shared with Peugeot under the PSA banner plus Ford, Jaguar and Land Rover, are the pick of the bunch. Most customers will opt for the 2.0-litre 138bhp turbodiesel unit, which in the C5 Tourer gives a top speed of 124mph, 0-62mph takes 12.1 seconds with 46.3mpg being the official average fuel economy. To maximise on obtaining the best possible fuel consumption and the lowest possible CO2 emissions Citroen has applied high ratios for fifth and sixth gears in the manual gearbox. This means that on the open road and motorways the 2.2HDI Tourer is really at its best. It coasts along quietly and effortlessly at 70mph just using 2,000rpm. However once on busier A and B roads the high gearing means considerable use of the gear change and on many occasions driving in fourth gear in slower traffic is required.

There is little to choose between the conventional coil spring suspension layout and the ‘magic carpet’ ride offered by the optional Hydractive 3 Plus system but many current C5 owners changing to the new models will want the traditional Citroen big-car comfort feel. The steering is light at low speeds making parking easier, firming up at higher speeds providing good feedback to the driver. Citroen UK say they expect around 70 per cent of customers to opt for the dampers and coil spring suspension. The Tourer’s boot offers 505 litres of load capacity making it one of the most spacious in the segment. When the rear seats are folded, the capacity increases to a total volume of 1,462 litres. Whilst the design certainly looks elegant due to its sleek, wide and low stance, the relatively small side windows combined with the wide pillars reduces visibility out of the car. The new Citroen C5 is a marked improvement over the outgoing model. It is a significant step up in design, quality, comfort and overall refinement.

Renault Kangoo

2009-04-23T12:00:00.001Z

The new Renault Kangoo is very much a vehicle for the 21st century and boasts modern, expressive styling, this being highlighted by a short ‘cobby’ front end. It comes in two versions, both sharing the same overall styling, with the ‘Compact’ version being considerably smaller. That said however, inside both this and the larger ‘Express’ have a capacious bright cockpit that is more in line with a car or MPV than a working vehicle. Modern, expressive styling seem to have been the design key words as there is space to securely fit an A4 clip board on the dash, store two lap-top computers in the glove box, as well as an overhead shelf to swallow up whatever else you want to carry close to hand and out of sight.

Multimedia connectivity with Bluetooth capabilities helps make the driving and passenger area as good as any modern Health and Safety conscious office. Add in things like fully adjustable seats, adjustable steering wheel, cruise control, air con, parking sensors, automatic headlamp and wiper activation and driving is not going to get too stressful. Safety is high on the list with pretensioner belts and airbags all round if required. The cockpit forms a rigid non-deformable survival cell to protect its occupants in the event of a crash and you have a choice of bulkheads or safety bars behind you. ABS, brake assist ASR traction control and ESC under-steer control, along with a load limiter make the specifications sound more like a top of the range family motor, rather than a working vehicle. For those times you need to increase the load capacity, providing you have no passenger, the front seat will collapse level with the rear floor to give extra length, if you do not opt for the fixed bulkhead.

The rear of the Express can now take loads between 3 and 3.60 cubic metres. The width between the rear wheel arches is 1.21 metres, which means that euro pallet will just slide in. The smaller ‘Compact’ shares the width, but length is just 3.83 m long as opposed to 4.21m for the larger Express. The load capability is just 2.3 to 2.9 cubic metres, but the turning circle and ease of manoeuvrability is well worth opting for it if you do not have large loads to carry. Both have asymmetrical rear doors that have been beefed up and designed for constant use. A sliding side door (depending on specification) adds to usability and access. Powering these new versions are three diesel engines, 70, 80 and 85bhp versions of the 1.5dCi unit. There are also two petrol engines, a 1.6 8V and 1.6V 105hp available. The list of options and extras also reads like those on a car brochure!

Built on the ‘Scenic’ chassis, it gives a level of handling not normally associated with a van of the genre. With a track 12cm wider at the front and back and a 10cm longer wheelbase compared to the existing version, the vehicle is very stable with little roll and pitch being noticeable even when loaded. Even some steep climbs out in the Scottish countryside were accomplished without the need to use the lowest gears and on the tight backstreets that formed part of my test route the turning circle was superb. The new Kangoo is better in every way and Renault has managed to achieve a replacement that is still as recognisable as its predecessor. Quiet an achievement!

Skoda Superb

2009-04-15T12:36:00.000Z

The Superb has now won nearly 30 top awards across Europe since its official premiere at the Geneva Motor Show last year. Most recently it has been named Car of the Year 2009 in the Czech Republic. Škoda has sold over 20,000 new Superbs across Europe since launch. The all-new Superb – the third model to wear the famous badge – confirms Škoda as one of the world’s most innovative and exciting car manufacturers. Recalling an evocative name from Škoda’s past, the new Superb is not only the most luxurious car Škoda has ever built; it is one that will set new standards for quality, practicality, design and value. The new Superb is a car that will change perceptions. Sitting at the top of the Škoda product range, it demonstrates that through bold design and engineering innovation, Škoda has created one of the most desirable cars in the sector. It also alters the perception of value for money. As with its predecessor, the new Superb dispels the old motoring myth of ‘you get what you pay for.’

The styling looks upmarket and has a polished luxury image. Let’s hope the badge snobs don’t cut off their noses to spite their face as the saying goes, they will be missing out on a great opportunity to buy a great car. The range of engines for the new Škoda Superb fulfils the needs of every customer and presents a wide-ranging variety. There are three petrol and three diesel engines available on Superb; including the GreenLine delivering low CO2 emissions (136 g/km) and even greater fuel efficiency (55.4 mpg combined). All of the engines operate with direct fuel injection and excel as a result of their low fuel consumption and emission values. Customers have the choice of four trim levels; entry level S, mid range SE, GreenLine and top of the range Elegance.

The specification is high though and even includes the limousine function of having an umbrella stowed in the rear door. Front-seat comfort is great, with the driver able to adjust steering wheel and seat. But the rear-seat passengers have the best experience. Only the S-class Mercedes-Benz offers as much space in the back. If you've ever owned a VW, then a lot of the controls will look and feel familiar. They also click reassuringly into place, which adds to the impression of quality. The goodies list seems endless so the new owners will get lots of car for their money. I will just pick out the main items as a matter of record. There are 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, subtle chrome trim, electrically operated door mirrors with integrated indicators, front fog lights and Halogen headlights. Inside there are heads rests for all five seats, an eight speaker sound system, air conditioning which includes the glovebox, front, side and curtain airbags, electrically operated front and rear side windows, electronic stability programme, executive style armrests, trip computer, remote central locking, leather trimmed steering wheel and gear knob/gaiter and split folding rear seats to make the best use of the rear tailgate and huge load space.

Given its imposing size, the Skoda is surprisingly agile on the move. Well-weighted steering and good body control make it extremely capable on twisting back roads. Buyers wanting even more grip can specify the optional four-wheel drive transmission, which is standard on the range-topping 3.6-litre V6 car. Even more impressive is the car’s comfort and refinement. The supple suspension manages to smooth out the worst road surfaces, while wind and engine noise are kept to a minimum. The Superb comes with a two-year unlimited mileage factory warranty, plus a third year valid until the car has completed 60,000 miles. Additionally, the coverage includes a 12-year warranty against corrosion and a 3-year paint warranty. Like its predecessor, the Superb delivers a first-class ownership experience

Fabia Sport 1.9TDi

2009-03-29T11:43:00.000Z

The Fabia Sport has a powerful and dynamic look that continues Skoda’s bold new design direction. Although instantly recognisable as a Skoda, the Fabia has a strong contemporary feel thanks to its smooth lines and striking external details. Pronounced wheel arches, combined with a dynamic profile, a deeper front spoiler, 16-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler and diffuser and a dirty great chrome exhaust, while the black A and B pillars make the roof appear to float above car.

Thanks to the willing nature of the1.9TDi 105bhp diesel engine tested, the Fabia Estate delivers an engaging drive that can honestly be described as athletic. The set up of the suspension and chassis means that it handles in a sure-footed and tidy manner, confident and capable on cross-country roads as well as motorways. The engine line-up means there will be a powerplant to suit most motorists, but for versatility and economy, the diesels are best. Its performance figures suggest it's a bit of a slow coach off the line, but it certainly doesn't feel like it when sat behind the wheel. Like all diesels, the accelerative benefits really kick in when on the move.

The Fabia Sport has a slightly firmer suspension than its hatchback equivalent, which delivers good, body control and composure through tight corners or on the motorways, whether carrying passengers or fully loaded. The firm ride means poor road surfaces equate to a slightly jarring ride, however refinement is good and noise levels entering the cabin remain low and unobtrusive. The same can't be said of the engine however, whose tone penetrates the calm of the cabin when worked hard. Skoda has fitted an electro-hydraulic steering system, as opposed to a fully electric one, with the intention of giving high levels of feel and to save fuel when the car is travelling straight. Consequently, there are decent levels of feedback and the light nature of the steering makes for a car that's easy to manoeuvre when parking.

Inside, the solidly constructed and neatly styled cabin features soft-touch plastics and a raft of luxury kit. For instance, there’s climate and cruise control, plus a CD player with MP3 and auxiliary inputs. Meanwhile, front, side and curtain airbags boost safety, but stability control is an optional extra. Buyers can also rely on excellent visibility and a comfortable driving position. However, look behind the leather-wrapped steering wheel, and the speedo and rev counter are confusingly similar in appearance. Further, back, the rear seats are spacious, and there’s a roomy 300-litre boot, too.

Getting comfortable in the driver's seat poses no problem, with the height adjustable seat and reach and rake adjustable steering wheel helping matters. The seats are supportive and comfortable although the firm ride means occupants will be aware of the road surface below them. Both legroom and headroom have been increased throughout the cabin over the old model, with rear passengers benefiting from an extra 42mm of space above their heads.

All models come with four airbags as standard, twin front and side airbags, but only the top-trim car adds rear curtain airbags. The hatch has performed well in crash tests and there's no reason to assume the estate won't follow. Skoda has improved the Fabia's energy absorbing properties and deformation zones to give occupants greater protection in the event of an impact while pedestrian safety has also been addressed. Skoda is a manufacturer that has managed to get the mix between practicality and price just right. Powered by the torquey 1.9 diesel, the Skoda Fabia Estate is a hugely capable workhorse delivering a pleasant and predictable drive. Its size is big by class standards but not so much that it detracts from its versatility as a city car; as such, it should suit a wide variety of buyers and their respective needs.

Lancer Sportback

2009-02-28T11:53:00.000Z

While the Evo models tend to grab the headlines, Mitsubishi is also keen to attract buyers who are looking for practicality and value for money, rather than outright performance. The result is the Lancer Sportback - a five-door hatchback based on the saloon. Sharp is a word that is used a great deal in the information pack; sharper handling, sharp dynamics, sharp styling are just a few examples. All of which are true and the new car is quite different to most other C-segment vehicles although there is a hint of Audi about it. Starting with the chiselled features of the front end; gone is the so-called, ‘Mount Fuji’ grille; in its place is a new ‘Jet Fighter’ grille with a wide trapezoidal mouth, which is said to resemble the air intakes of a jet fighter.

There are two petrol engines available a 1.5-litre and a 1.8-litre both can cover the 0-62mph in less than 12 seconds. A five-speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard with an optional CVT automatic. The far better choice is the 2.0-litre diesel. It's badged DI-D but it is actually a TDI engine borrowed from Volkswagen. Although slightly noisy, the 140bhp unit it does at least offer decent in-gear pace plus a slick six-speed gearbox returning an average 45mpg. On the plus side it is comfortable to drive, has good passenger space and a decent boot - standard equipment is generous too with all models getting air conditioning, cruise control and electric windows. The Lancer Sportback feels quite sporty on the road thanks to firm suspension and only a moderate amount of body roll in corners. Fortunately the ride quality isn't adversely affected and it smoothes out bumps and rough surfaces well. On twisting routes the Mitsubishi is enjoyable to drive and surefooted. The steering is responsive too but overly light and lacks feel.

There are three trim levels - GS2, GS3 and GS4. The base-level car comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, manual air conditioning, steering wheel mounted stereo controls, cruise control, electrically adjustable and folding door mirrors, electric windows front and back, leather steering wheel and gear lever, auxiliary input for MP3 players, power steering, remote central locking and a CD stereo. The GS3 adds 18-inch alloy wheels, climate control, front fog lights, stability and traction control and privacy glass while the GS4 has a touch screen sat-nav system, a 30GB music hard drive and heated leather seats.

While the design of the cabin is neat with well laid out controls and an easy to use stereo, the build quality is good and the interior certainly feels solid. The front sports seats are comfortable and supportive without the sense of brutal expectation you get from the more focused Recaro. The rear seats are much the same, especially the outer ones, they have the usual 60:40 split with just the centre of the backrests that fold, leaving the large side and shoulder bolsters in place. This of course increases the capacity of the huge boot the exact size of which is undisclosed but you can get at least three sets of golf clubs in this cavernous area. Despite the boot size, and, as a result of the larger, ‘one size fits all’ platform, there is plenty of leg and shoulder room for the rear passengers, who can travel in comfort thanks to the beefed up body structure and sports-tuned, but easy-riding suspension. The Lancer Sportback is a new breed of Mitsubishi.

Hyundai launch new iLoad

2009-01-03T09:15:00.000Z

This month sees Hyundai launch the new iLoad, a rear-wheel drive medium panel van, which offers good specification, as well as one of the best payloads and cargo areas in its class. Unlike many vans, Hyundai claim that the iLoad has car like driving dynamics and equipment levels which will mean no unpleasant compromises for the driver. The standard equipment list includese with air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, central locking, a CD stereo with aux-in connectivity, height adjustable steering column, driver and passenger airbags, height-adjustable driver’s seat and seatbelts, twin side loading doors, a full-sized glazed steel bulkhead and masses of cabin storage.

Although the iLoad is packed with equipment, there is still plenty of room for cargo. Its overall payload is 1062kg, while a load length of 2375mm, width of 1620mm and height of 1350mm allow enough space to comfortably accommodate two standard pallets. The overall load volume is 4.3 cubic metres.It has plenty of power to move those loads too – an advanced 2.5-litre turbodiesel produces 116PS (114bhp) and a massive 343Nm (253lb ft) of torque. This pulling power, around 50Nm more than most rivals’, is available from just 1,750rpm, meaning drivers can keep the engine speeds lower and help fuel consumption.

The engine’s power is fed through the rear wheels, giving great benefits in traction and manoeuvrability compared to front-wheel drive rivals. As well as the standard panel van, a six-seat double cab model is offered as a special-order option, while both models can be ordered with ESP if required. What’s more, the iLoad comes with a five-year warranty, which also covers the vehicle against mechanical defects for up to 100,000 miles – taking yet another load off the user’s mind.

Peugeot 308

2008-11-27T12:20:00.001Z

Revealed for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the innovative and versatile SW is the latest addition to the new Peugeot 308 range. The 308 SW may look like an ordinary family estate, but it has a trick up its sleeve that makes it one of a kind - an extra row of seats in the back. While there are plenty of people carriers able to transport seven passengers no rival offers so many seats in a vehicle this size. The letters SW are synonymous with practicality and ingenious interior packaging, and the 308 SW offers accommodation for up to seven occupants.

The SW is longer and taller than the 308 hatchback it's based on but handles just as well. It's fairly agile with decent body control and even in tight bends feels safe and reassuring. Both front and rear tracks are wider than on the Hatch for sure-footed dynamics. At the front, the SW shares the same styling as the 308 three and five-door Hatch models, while from the side the steeply raked windscreen and integrated shape of the rear quarter lights creates a dynamism that is rare in its class. The wrap-around single piece rear window can be opened independently of the tailgate on Sport and SE models for easier loading in tight situations.

Under the bonnet, the SW’s engine range mirrors that of the Hatch, with eight units - five petrol and three HDi diesel - including automatic transmission versions of the 1.6Vti and THP 140 petrol engines, as well as the HDi 136. Four trim levels provide two distinct ambiences in the new SW: both S and SR models have a steel roof panel and split-folding rear bench seat, together with a ‘classic’ front grille design. One of the SW Sport and SE’s key features is the panoramic Cielo glass roof which stretches almost the whole length of the car and creates a bright interior ambience and an unprecedented feel of space and visibility. Aluminium-effect roof bars add the finishing touch to its stylish appeal.

Peugeot has really focussed huge attention on improving the interior quality of the 308. It has a far more upmarket feel than the 307, with a soft touch dash, neat dials and its silver-coloured rims to the air vents, instruments, door handles and the surround of the gearlever knob. Cabin access is made easier by the wide door openings, while the tall body means generous headroom for all and a higher seating position gives rear passengers better visibility. Legroom is good, but adequate only for smaller occupants in the rearmost seats when the car is in seven-seat mode. The third row seats are quite firm and only suitable for kids, but the rest are comfortable. The interior is very clever, for maximum versatility each of SW Sport’s three middle-row seats can be individually removed with ease. The 308 SW claims one of the biggest interiors in its class, with five on board standard luggage capacity is a generous 600 litres, but with only the two front seats in place, potential carrying volume reaches a remarkable 2,149 litres. Thanks to a folding mechanism on the front passenger seat, items up to 3.10 metres long can also be carried.

The 308 has also been designed to maximise interior space as well as retain many of the ‘fun-to-drive’ characteristics of Peugeots in the past. Body control is pretty good on twisty roads the car has a general reassuring feel when pressing on, as well as a firm but compliant ride in the tradition of some of Peugeot's larger cars. Engine noise and wind noise are kept well under control. The new Peugeot 308 has everything you need for a safe, comfortable journey.

Citroen Berlingo Multispace

2008-11-27T12:17:00.001Z

Launched in 1998, the Citroen Berlingo Multispace has become one of Citroen's most popular vehicles, selling 53,000 in the UK alone, and more than one million in total. Many badge snobs look past the Berlingo Multispace and its kind when looking for an MPV; unable to get past the cars' van-derived heritage, but the new Berlingo Multispace is a different beast entirely this isn't just a van with windows. It boasts the same construction architecture and running gear as the award winning C4 Picasso MPV it not only performs and handles like a modern passenger car, rather than a commercial vehicle, it looks smarter and it is larger, but still not too large to be classed as a ‘compact’ people carrier.

In a world where low running costs and practicality are prime considerations for buying a sensible vehicle for active families, or a car that doubles as a workhorse, the Multispace fits the bill. It may not be totally stylish with Citroen’s usual passenger car flair, but it has a certain practical charm and will appeal to people who buy a car with their head not their heart. The Multispace is offered with three trim levels, and five engine options - two petrol 1.6i 16v (90bhp or 110bhp) and three diesel. All diesel engines are 1.6 HDi units, the principal difference being their power outputs, 75, 90 and 110 bhp, and consequent performance. All come with five-speed manual transmission.

Everything about the Multispace is practical. Its longer wheelbase but compact overall 4.3-metre length, combined with easy-to-use rear side sliding doors, makes it user friendly and very spacious. Add to that the huge load area and the option to fold or take out the rear seats and the load space is at worst large and at best huge, up to 3,000-litres. There are lots of internal storage areas, including the roof section, so the practicality of the vehicle seems endless.

The only complaint I have is there was limited room for my left foot there just wasn’t enough space to get my foot on the rest which is too close to the clutch. I guess this is down to the left hand drive initial design which for the driving position doesn’t convert so easily to right hand drive. I have to admit I’m over six feet tall so it won’t apply to all buyers. Thankfully there was plenty of headroom. Over all Citroen has done more than enough to keep its value MPV at the top of its class

Renault Koleos

2008-11-27T12:15:00.001Z

The very pure and crisp Renault Koleos design is elegant, simple and strikingly beautiful. It rates as one of the nicest looking SUVs on the market. Renault is one of the latest car marques to bring a crossover SUV into this hotly contested and growing market sector. The appetite for crossover cars is most certainly on the increase, so it is timely for Renault to provide something a little special into the mix. The Renault Koleos is both distinctive and impressive and finally enters Renault into the 4x4 segment with a dedicated model, which is based on the Nissan X-Trail. The new Koleos, however, is different it’s a crossover vehicle that offers MPV levels of comfort and genuine off-road ability. The Koleos is a five-seater that comes in either front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive versions. The Koleos is one of the better cars in its class to drive offering exceptional comfort and refinement.

There's a straight choice between 150bhp and 175bhp dCi 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines, though the more powerful unit is only available in the top spec Koleos. The six speed manual gearbox had a light clutch and neat precise action through the sectors while the brakes always felt reassuring and well balanced. There's also an automatic gearbox option, but it's only available with all-wheel drive models and not the 175bhp engine. The electric parking brake was very effective and is a simply pull and go action.

The driver's seat adjusts for height and the steering wheel moves for reach and height, so the driving position is easily tailored to individual drivers. All-round vision is good and the main dials are easy to read. The centre console's heating and stereo controls are simple to understand and operate, and there are remote stereo controls on the steering wheel of most models. The raised driving position gives a clear all-round view and the front seats are supportive with plenty of adjustment. The steering is light to make parking and town driving easy, and it has a decently tight turning circle for a 4x4.
Long journeys are made all the more pleasurable thanks to the Koleos smooth, absorbent ride that makes short work of bumpy roads or even off-road tracks. The acceleration is respectable if not rapid but its quietness is probably the most outstanding feature, even when pressing on. There's plenty of grip in corners and the four-wheel drive system can be switched to automatic mode, where power is sent to the rear wheels if the front tyres begin to relinquish their hold on the road.

Renault's vast experience with people carriers shows in the Koleos the rear seats are split 60:40 and fold flat into the load floor at the tug of a lever. A split tailgate, with a glass upper and fold-down lower section adds to the Renault's versatility. The boot is a generous size and there are plenty of storage cubbies throughout the cabin. The entry level Dynamique comes with air conditioning and chilled glovebox, cruise control with speed limiter function, and CD stereo with MP3 compatibility. It also has an electric parking brake, roof bars and alloy wheels. The Dynamique S has climate control, keyless ignition and parking sensors. There are also cupholders, Hill Start and Hill Descent Control, and the Super-fold system for tipping the rear seats. The top spec Privilege models have leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, upgraded stereo, satellite navigation and bi-xenon headlights.

Here’s something you might not have suspected – the very French Koleos is being built in Korea, what’s more it’s being sold by another partner in the Renault-Nissan alliance, Samsung! To think that the Korean giant only sold mobile phones and other home electronic devices.

Citroen C6

2008-11-27T12:12:00.001Z

The Citroen C6 is the leading executive car of the Citroen vehicle series. Famous due to former French president Jacques Chirac owning an original model, the Citroen C6 is highly respected as a refined luxury car. It offers drivers a wide range of technologically-advanced options including a heads-up display, a lane departure warning system, directional xenon headlights and a rear spoiler which can adjust itself depending on the speed at which the car travels. Two V6 engines are available, both of them offered with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 3.0-litre petrol engine offers 212bhp. It sprints from 0-62mph in a moderately brisk 9.4 seconds and reaches 143mph flat out. The 2.7-litre turbodiesel offers 205bhp and beats the petrol model to 62mph by half a second. It also has a top speed of 143mph.

Set for comfort the C6 has a complex active suspension system designed to prevent vibrations from the road reaching the occupants from the tyres through the suspension, right up to the seats. Instead of conventional metal springs it uses an electronically controlled hydraulic suspension system, with two stiffness level and 16 damper settings. While the system is set up for comfort, it automatically firms up when the driver uses harsher acceleration and braking. It can also detect and distinguish between different types of road and adjusts its settings for maximum comfort. The steering is generally light and easy to use, but it does gain weight and feel as speed increases and is reasonably direct at less than three turns between the locks.

The C6 will carry four or five people very comfortably, while the suspension absorbs pretty much any bump or obstacle thrown at it, the airy interior of the C6 is a thoroughly pleasant place to spend time. The automatic climate control has 'soft diffusion' which ensures a less aggressive airflow to eliminate draughts and laminated, double glazed side windows do a great job of helping deliver a virtually silent interior environment on the move. Engine noise is equally subdued whether choosing petrol or diesel. Choosing the Lounge Pack option changes the rear to a two-seat bench with electrically adjustable seating positions and to maximise rear leg room there is a button in the rear armrest to motor the front passenger seat forward when unoccupied.

Three trim levels are available featuring nine airbags (driver, passenger, four lateral, two curtain and a steering column 'bag), electrically-operated front seats, an MP3-compatible audio system with colour screen, speed sensitive rear spoiler, alloy wheels and automatic operation of the headlamps and wipers, as well as automatic climate control and an electronic parking brake. The higher specification C6 Lignage has a head-up display, front and rear parking sensors and directional xenon headlamps, which make for better night-time visibility around corners. The range-topping C6 Exclusive adds heated front and rear leather seats, wood and chrome trim, satellite navigation, lane departure warning and a premium audio system with a six-CD autochanger.

The C6 interior is very upmarket with grey wood trim on the dashboard and superbly designed door bins help create the luxury car ambience along with the dark dashboard top and controls in the centre. Visibility is good with slim window pillars towards the rear of the car, while the concave rear window doesn't seem to cause much distortion. It seems appropriate that most of the main instruments have LED readings and it is possible to choose a C6 with a head-up display which projects speed, the main warning lights and the next sat-nav direction on to the windscreen. Citroen’s history of producing remarkably beautiful and comfortable large cars delivers something unique and exclusive to the executive world of motoring.

Avia Truck D75

2008-08-25T13:34:00.001Z

Founded in 1919, the Czech company Avia began by manufacturing aircraft and engines. Involvement in truck production began in 1946. This was followed by an important license agreement with Renault in 1967, which resulted in the production of the famous 'A' range. In 1995 the South Korea-based Daewoo Motors purchased a 50.2% majority stake of the company. This resulted in the company being known as 'Daewoo Avia' and a significant investment in both product development and facilities was undertaken. In 2006, Avia was purchased by Ashkok Leyland, a member of the Hinduja Group, who created Avia Leyland, launching a new era for the Avia brand. Market leader in its home country, the Czech Republic, Avia is gradually spreading its influence across the rest of mainland Europe. Following its acquisition by Ashok Leyland, the UK arm of the company is now consolidating its position and is in the process of expanding its dealer network.

Designed to meet the requirements of todays’ businesses the Avia D75 is purpose designed for the highly competitive UK 7.5 tonne market. With a high degree of UK content, including a Cummins engine built in Darlington and engineering by UK specialists Hawtal Whiting and design styling by I.D.E.A, this truck is really "at home" on the UK streets. D75 is sturdy yet light weight - unladen weights start at 2920 kg including side guards and rear under-run. This can translate to a payload of up to 4500kg when the chassis is fitted with a lightweight box, curtainside or dropside body. The heavy duty front axle also gives a high degree of axle tolerance permitting un-loading from the rear of the body with reduced risk of overloading the front axle. Avia Trucks UK engineers can calculate the likely axle loadings under variable and diminishing load conditions using their sophisticated Dae-Care Tec™ Program, helping you stay the right side of the law.

With 160bhp, this truck is equally at home night-trunking between urban centres or running door to door deliveries around conurbations. The cruise control ensures steady economical progress on main roads and motorways and the powerful programmable exhaust brake ensures a high degree of retardation both on hills and in stop-start traffic. Road tests have repeatedly praised this truck's firm handling and efficient brakes which show consistently high retardation under repeated application. From a short 3.6m (12 ft) tipper to a long 7.3m (24ft) curtainsider, D75 takes a wide range of bodies. Using Avia Trucks UK Truck Partners program, you can buy a fully bodied vehicle for a highly competitive price with the assurance that Avia engineers have approved the body mounting and superstructure. Optional air suspension is available for those operators transporting delicate loads or for those drivers wishing an ultra low loading height, where the chassis can be lowered a full 100mm from it's normal ride height within a couple of seconds.

Standard fitment of a 160 BHP Cummins ISBe Euro 4 engine, gives ample power for all applications. ZF transmission is also standard on all models. The full specification of “extra items” at no extra cost is impressive. Cruise control, drivers’ air seat, rear differential lock, exhaust brakes, CD player, heated mirrors, electric windows, central door locking and 3 years unlimited mileage manufactures warranty. Avia Truck Finance offers a full spectrum of funding options. From low deposit hire purchase agreements to a fully inclusive contract hire package. Avia Trucks Finance has the ability to provide a suitable funding option for your business, so whether you’re a new start owner operator or a blue chip multi national Avia Trucks offers a one stop shop.

Kia Carens

2008-08-25T13:32:00.001Z

Kia’s ability to develop innovative new cars that look beyond the obvious is given free rein in the Carens with a hint of SUV attitude, but exhibiting all the versatility and practicality of the most modern compact MPVs, it appeals to private and fleet users alike. One of the first things that struck me with the Kia Carens is the wonderful layout of the controls. Everything is ‘presented’ to you in an easy to reach, easy to see, easy to feel way. The centre console slopes gracefully down, as opposed to dropping vertically into the proverbial void. The ergonomics are excellent. Nothing seems to be in a position where it has to be ‘reached-for’.

Two engines are on offer a 2.0-litre 142bhp petrol and a 138bhp turbodiesel. The diesel is powerful enough, and its superior fuel economy makes it a worthy buy. Both engines come with a manual gearbox (five-speed in the petrol and six in the diesel) and either can be specified with a four-speed automatic.

The Carens exhibits versatility and practicality, a foot-operated parking brake allows for more storage space around the driver and front passenger. There is a large compartment beneath the centre armrest; cup holders in the front and rear of the centre console; a sunglasses holder in the headlining; large door pockets with bottle holder storage; and a generous glove box. Standard items across the range include front and rear electric windows with an auto-down facility, electrically-adjustable door mirrors, an under floor storage box and under seat tray on the front passenger's side. The Carens is available as both a five- and seven-seater, for the added space in the seven seater the cushions of the centre-row seats tip forwards, enabling the backrests to fold down to create a flat floor, free of interruptions while the rear row folds into the base leaving a totally flat surface.

In conclusion, the new Kia Carens is an impressive seven-seater family car; it is packed with intelligent features, all of which make the driving and travelling experience a pleasure for both driver and passengers. It looks good, with elegant lines and gracefully rounded corners and is about as versatile in terms of the interior as you could ever hope for. It drives well, with a smooth and quiet air to the whole experience and did not let me down in any single respect. Kia Carens come with a five year bumper-to-bumper unlimited mileage warranty.

Kia Magentis

2008-08-25T13:29:00.001Z

Kia has proved recently that it can build cars that compete on equal terms with mainstream European and Japanese cars. Kia’s designers have worked hard to bring the manufacturer into the 21st Century with a completely new design; the overhauled Magentis is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor and looks much more modern. Certainly it has a far more European appearance than its predecessor and that, together with sensible pricing, is going to impress a lot of potential buyers. The latest Magentis could well change your view of Korean cars.

The Magentis is a decent car to drive it offers good steering feel and turns in neatly and precisely, while remaining resistant to body roll when required to turn hard. The Magentis has plenty of grip and copes well with sudden changes of direction. Both four-cylinder engines (the 2.0-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel) are competitive on performance: the six-speed manual diesel will sprint from 0-62mph in just over ten seconds, while the five-speed manual petrol engine is a couple of tenths quicker. Both four-speed autos are about a second or so slower over the same benchmark. The 2.7 V6 engine comes with a five-speed auto and takes just over nine seconds to reach 62mph from rest. The diesel pulls strongly with a maximum 225lb-ft of torque available from 1800rpm to 2500rpm and shifts through the gears quite smoothly. Noise levels are low, with engine noise in the diesel model particularly well suppressed.

In keeping with Kia’s value-for-money brief, even the base GS models comes with air conditioning, an MP3-compatible radio/CD player, driver's seat height adjustment and a tilt-adjust steering column, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, powered and heated door mirrors, four electric windows and remote central locking. LS models add automatic lights, a trip computer, telescopic steering wheel adjustment, full climate control with an air quality monitoring system, eight-way powered driver’s seat and heated front seats and stability and traction control with emergency brake assist. Behind the wheel the driver’s seat-height can be adjusted and the steering wheel adjusts for height. The major controls and switches are logically arranged and easy to use There’s masses of head and knee space for all. Despite the lack of five-door versatility, the Magentis has a split-fold rear seat to extend the already-large cargo hold. With the seats in place, the boot will easily cope with a family’s holiday gear. If you’re looking for a sensible priced car then look no further

Volkswagen Tiguan

2008-08-25T13:26:00.002Z

Taking its design from its Touareg big brother, the new Tiguan is a handsome model, with sharp, muscular lines and good on-road presence. Combine those with VW’s proven 4Motion all wheel drive system, which in normal mode drives the front wheels but as and when needed transfers power to the rear axle as well, and the Tiguan looks a creditable SUV. It is no longer than a popular sized five-door hatchback and its conservative exterior styling doesn’t shout ‘4x4 off-roader’ at you either.

The Tiguan scores well where it matters and one of those areas is on-road driveability. It is certainly the most capable of its type on tarmac and it handles more or less the same as a large family hatchback or MPV. The road holding is first class and the vehicle proved to be pretty agile, both on and off road. The 4Motion system gives enough grip to cope with muddy off-road driving and the Escape variants have added underbody protection and a shorter front overhang to assist with such conditions. All the driver has to do is push the off-road button and the computer takes over the traction distribution to all four wheels, adjusts the throttle settings, applies hill-descent and climb control when needed and adjusts the anti-lock braking.
Under the bonnet, power comes from VW’s new common-rail 140psp or 170ps 2.0-litre TDI engine, or a 150ps 1.4-litre TSI turbocharged and supercharged petrol, both units are available with VW’s six-speed manual or DSG twin-clutch semi-automatic transmission. For those that want even more power there is the 2.0-litre petrol turbo engine, developing 170ps and 200ps.

As you would expect from Volkswagen, the interior is nicely styled and well equipped with all the controls logically placed and easy to use. The rear row of seats have a 60/40 fold-down split and slide backwards into the load space to increase rear legroom. They are also mounted slightly higher in the vehicle than the front ones so visibility for rear passengers is good. The base model S, includes air-conditioning, driver’s seat height adjustment, rake- and reach-adjustable steering column, electric windows front and rear, electrically heated and operated door mirrors and an electronic parking brake with auto-hold. The centre console houses a radio/CD with MP3 capability and an AUX socket for external media. The Tiguan is certainly user-friendly and well up to coping with every day life and wear and tear.

Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Life

2008-07-25T13:19:00.000Z

It might be based on a humble van, but the Caddy Maxi Life has all the credentials it needs to win recognition as a car, according to Volkswagen. Forging a link between the larger Transporter model the new Caddy Maxi Life, despite its modest dimensions, is capable of carrying up to seven people in comfort plus their luggage. The tightly-packaged Caddy Maxi Life is designed to be a rugged and versatile family car. Visual changes include body colour bumpers, alloy wheels and subtle tints to the rear window glass.

The Caddy Maxi Life range has been kept simple with one trim offering a high standard specification and a choice of two turbo-diesel engines. With a 1.9-litre TDI engine under the bonnet, the Maxi Life is a willing performer delivering 104bhp. Driving the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox, it reaches 62mph in 14.3 seconds. Mated to a six-ratio DSG the company's acclaimed automated double clutch transmission with handy paddle controls on the steering wheel for instant changes, the same unit achieves the benchmark rate in 13.5 seconds and manages 103mph all out. A slick six-speed manual-shift gearbox is fitted to the 140bhp flagship 2.0-litre version, which accelerates to 62mph in 11.1 seconds. Geared to be a leisurely long distance cruiser, it feels relaxed at all speeds and reaches a maximum of 116mph.
When compared to the standard Caddy the Maxi Life sits on a wheelbase extended by 320mm while the overall length grows by 470 mm to 4880 mm. This allows for the fitment of three rows of seats accessed through a pair of practical sliding doors. Even with the third row of seats in place the load volume remains an impressive 380 litres. To aid practicality the third row of seats can be removed completely while the second row folds down and forward. The result is a maximum load volume of 1,350 litres.

Standard spec includes ‘Climatic’ semi-automatic air conditioning, electric front windows, carpet and full trim, sliding windows and child locks on both sliding side doors, Isofix fittings for two rear seats, a generous overhead storage shelf above the driver, four luggage nets in the roof lining, a 12v socket in the luggage area, plus remote central locking, radio and CD with six speakers and front fog lights. Interior ambience is softened by dual-colour trim and deep front door pockets are shaped to ensure one-litre-size bottles remain upright. The Caddy Maxi Life should prove a firm favourite with Taxi, Private Hire and Business Chauffeur operators due to the mix of passenger carrying capacity and load volume.

New Caddy Maxi

2008-07-25T13:16:00.000Z

The all-new Caddy Maxi creates a new class of compact van for Volkswagen between the Caddy and Transporter ranges as its name suggests, the new Caddy Maxi is 47 cm longer than the award-winning Caddy. Three engines are available for the Caddy Maxi a 1.6 litre (102hp) petrol engine. Entry into the diesel world is provided, as before, with the proven 1.9 litre TDI (105 HP), which accelerates the Caddy Maxi to 62mph in 13.3 seconds. The most powerful engine for the Caddy Maxi is the 2.0 litre (140 HP) TDI and is recommended as a superior power source even at full payload capacity the sprint from 0 to 62mph is completed in just 10.5 seconds with a maximum speed of 115mph where the law permits. The 1.9-litre TDI is available with a five-speed manual gearbox or with Volkswagen’s advanced six-speed DSG gearbox with DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter); and new 2.0-litre engine with DPF and six-speed manual gearbox.

Inside, the Caddy Maxi takes cabin comfort to the maximum. The driver's seat can be adjusted in height for an optimal view over the instruments and for safe handling the steering wheel can also be adjusted for height and rake. There is a generous overhead storage area, two in-dash storage trays, a centre console with four drinks holders and more storage space. The Caddy Maxi handles well on A roads and B roads and does not wallow or pitch around corners, it's easy to manoeuvre, predictable in its responses and feels stable and secure on the road and offers a lively performance even without a load in the back.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has recognised the sign of the times in terms of load compartment and payload offering 4.2 cubic meters of the cargo area. The Caddy Maxi panel van is well suited to the express delivery industry with its large carrying capacity, sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle. Behind the drivers seat is a partition available either as a full partition from top to bottom or with a window in the upper area of view. The load length is 2.25m and the width between the wheel arches is 1.17m with a load height of 1.25m offering enough space for a Euro pallet to slide in. At 730kg, the payload of the new Caddy panel van is the peak in its class, irrespective of the engine type. As an option, there is also an upgrade available to 800kg.

New Peugeot Partner

2008-07-25T13:10:00.000Z

Peugeot’s Partner is a versatile and capable city van promising versatility, value for money and a new best load capacity in the small panel van segment. It’s built alongside the Citroen Berlingo and the two siblings rival each other at the top of the class. The trusty companion ticks all the right boxes, with some clever tricks, a hugely versatile model line-up and competitive list prices. As a result, Partner is one of the most tempting small vans on sale in the UK. Under the bonnet there is a choice of petrol and diesel engines. The 1.6 HDi diesel offers 75bhpP or 90bhp, while returning over 45mpg on the combined cycle, the 1.6-litre petrol offers 90bhp, returning 34mpg on the combined cycle. Both the diesel and petrol engines are mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox.

The new van is 4.38m long and in standard format offers a load volume of 3.3 cubic metres (against the old model’s 3.0 cu m) and payloads of between 625kg and 850kg. Later in the year an extended model will be launched with the same wheelbase that will increase load volume further to 3.7 cubic metres. Access to the cargo area is excellent, with the rear doors opening up 180 degrees to give owners a wide load space. The load area is wide enough to contain a standard Europallet while six load-lashing eyes will help keep cargo in place. Partner can also be specified with one or two sliding side doors for quick access. The innovative Multi-Flex dual passenger seat offers unrivalled modularity and enables the vehicle to carry two passengers. The middle seat can be folded down which reveals a handy desk, while the outer passenger seat also folds to reveal extra cargo space, which allows for loads of up to 3m long to be carried.
As a vehicle designed with the understanding that its users may need to spend many hours in it, the door openings are wide and the controls ergonomically designed. With a height adjustable driver’s seat and a height and depth adjustable steering wheel it is very easy to find a comfortable driving position. Inside the passenger compartment there are many different storage areas: around the fascia panel, above the driver’s head, in the doors and under the seats. Comfort features include self-regulating air-conditioning, automatic headlight activation and rain sensors, while safety features include ABS and front airbags as standard equipment and head curtain airbags, ESP and cruise control as options. All new Partners are covered by a two-year, unlimited mileage warranty, plus one year breakdown cover.

New Peugeot Bipper

2008-07-25T12:30:00.000Z

The Peugeot Bipper is a new compact light commercial vehicle aimed at strengthening Peugeot’s rejuvenated range of commercial vehicles. The Bipper is designed for professionals looking for a vehicle which is easy to drive and can be parked easily. It is available with a choice of two engines a 1.4 litre 75 bhp petrol or a 1.4 litre HDi diesel engine developing 68 bhp and emitting only 119 g of CO2 per km. The HDi diesel engine is also available with an optional electronically controlled manual gearbox and offers greater convenience to drivers using the vehicle in busy urban areas especially couriers who spend many hours in their van, this gearbox will be a huge benefit to them in terms of reduced driving fatigue and reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
Thanks to the asymmetric hinged rear doors and sliding side doors, the Bipper is also very easy to load and unload, even in the narrowest of spaces. Inside, the cube-like load area has been designed to offer a generous usable space. The effective floor load length is 1.52 m, with a maximum interior height of 1.18 m. The width between the wheel arches is 1.05 m, giving a total usable volume of 2.5m3. With all this available space, the Bipper can transport a payload of up to 610 kg. Inside, comfort and convenience take pride of place. Modern, bright and functional, the interior has been designed to be easy to use. It is robust and comprehensive with a four dial instrument panel, a multifunction display, warning lights and a centre console. The latter also houses the ventilation or air conditioning controls, the radio and the hands-free phone kit, depending on which options are chosen. The layout has been ergonomically designed to ensure that each control is within hand’s reach and each instrument is in the driver’s line of sight. This is also the case with the steering wheel, which is height and depth adjustable. The gear lever, which is located on the fascia panel, as on all of Peugeot’s new commercial vehicles, increases the available space inside the passenger compartment.

An important factor when choosing a commercial vehicle is the running costs. The Bipper has been designed to keep these costs to a minimum. It has extended service intervals requiring a service only every 20,000 miles or 2 years, regardless of engine type. The timing belt is replaced every 140,000 miles or 10 years on the diesel engine, and 90,000 miles or 10 years on the petrol version.

New Citroen Berlingo

2008-06-25T11:59:00.000Z

This new generation Berlingo builds upon the outstanding success of the current model, Citroen has sold over 800,000 Berlingo vans worldwide making it the most successful commercial vehicle in Citroen’s history. The new Berlingo is available in two trim options, with a choice of three engines – a new 90bhp 1.6i petrol engine and two 1.6HDi diesels in 75bhp and 90bhp format, all of which are mated to five-speed gear boxes. An optional Extenso modular cabin facility provides the ability to transport load length of 3 metres or more dependent on model. The Berlingo goes one step further in making van drivers’ working life that much easier, with the introduction of the Trafficmaster Smartnav and Trackstar navigation and tracking devices as standard on all specs but the base 1.6-litre petrol engine.

Maximum Berlingo payloads rise to 850kg and the larger of the two new Berlingo models has a load compartment volume of 3.7m3, or 4.1m3 with Extenso option. Two versions (L1 and L2) of the new Berlingo will be available in the UK, with a 2728mm wheelbase. Citroën offer the new Berlingo with a wide range of load compartment door options including single or twin sliding side load doors. As standard, new Berlingo has unglazed twin hinged rear doors with glazed rear doors as an option. The twin rear doors are split 60/40 and open out to 177 degrees, to enable the new Berlingo to back right up to a loading bay. A hinged roof flap is also an option.
The Extenso cabin option provides the ability to seat a driver and two passengers, thanks to a middle seat for occasional use. With the Extenso® cabin option the outer passenger seat can be folded away to enable loads of 3.0m or more. In two seater format the passenger seat can be folded down to give a flat writing surface, complete with two cup holders. In addition the Extenso centre seat houses a 7.6-litre secure storage bin to conceal valuables from passers-by. A combination of a passenger side glove box, a glove box behind the steering wheel, over-windscreen storage, large door pockets, a central console and additional driver’s seat storage provide a total in-cab storage space of up to 61 litres.

Low cabin noise levels are achieved with effective acoustic encapsulation of the engine and the under-floor body pan is specially coated to reduce road noise and protect the vehicle body structure from stone chipping. In addition, the new Berlingo interior also boasts a wide range of noise-absorbent acoustic materials applied to dash, roof and other interior surfaces. Standard equipment on all Berlingos’ includes a trip computer, central locking, electric front windows and internally adjustable door mirrors. The already high level of standard trim is further augmented in new Berlingo LX models with remote central locking, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors and an external temperature sensor. Standard audio equipment includes a stereo radio/CD player on all models. The Berlingo model will be sold alongside the similar Peugeot Partner Light van.

Nemo earns its designation as the smallest, biggest van as it has internal load compartment dimensions and a payload capacity equal to or better than many larger high-cube vans. The new Nemo is just 3.86m long and has a tight turning circle of just 9.95m a 2.5cu m load compartment and a 610kg payload. Folding and sliding passenger seats and nearside sliding side door boost practicality and interior space. The Nemo comes in the four variations that together draw on Citroen’s two light commercial-primed engines – 75bhp 1.4-litre petrol injection and the 70bhp 1.4-litre HDI diesel - while two trim levels are available – X and XL. On top of this, the versatile 1.4-litre oil-burning unit can be run on 30% biodiesel without the need for any engine modifications. On the subject of power plants, both petrol and diesel variants can clock up 20,000 miles, or two years, between manufacturer services. To heighten the Nemo’s driving experience, SensoDrive, Citroën’s clutchless automated manual transmission is also available with the 1.4HDi engine.

CAP applauds new Nemo and Berlingo
As a fillip for those still in the light commercial van decision-making process, CAP believe that both the Nemo and Berlingo will be fast-established as residual frontrunners in their respective classes. CAP cites both vans optimum levels of crew comfort, safety, versatility, functionality and projected low cost operating as key performance indicators. With a suggested residual value exceeding 32% after a typical three years/60,000 mile lifespan, the Nemo outstrips its closest envisaged rivals, a feat matched by its Berlingo stable mate which after the same period should retain some 33% of its original outlay.

Renault Twingo

2008-06-25T11:55:00.000Z

With a neat, modern profile and sporty styling details, Twingo looks every bit the chic city car. Easy to handle and fun to drive, Twingo revels in its compact dimensions. Gently flared wheel arches, chunky bumpers and silver surrounds to the fog lights add to the modern aspect. The wheel-in-every-corner, layout means a surprising amount of interior space and improved stability.

There are two versions of the new Twingo; the Dynamique and the GT the difference between the two is mainly cosmetic; Standard Dynamique equipment includes brushed aluminium instrument surrounds, a pod style rev-counter on the steering column, a smart carbon injected dashboard, front fog lights, Sports body styling kit, alloy wheels, CD and radio system, electric front windows, remote central locking, four airbags and anti-lock braking. The GT model has additional items such as leather steering wheel and gear knob, manual air conditioning, automatic wipers and headlights, which are of the ‘see-me-home’ variety, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, GT-branded door sills and sports suspension. There are several additional extra cost option packs so the Twingo can be tailored to fit the customer’s required specification.

The Twingo also offers good interior space it is not too cramped unlike so many other small cars. The two clever independent rear seats have a sliding arrangement that allows them to be pushed back into part of the load area to give more legroom for rear seat passengers. With the rear seats pushed forward to increase the load area size and folded down load capacity increases to 959 litres.

It is generally a relaxed environment in which to travel with limited engine and road noise. The power steering makes for easy parking and there’s plenty of feedback on the move. The four-cylinder, 1.2-litre petrol engine with its turbocharger is quite a gem and one of the best reasons to buy a Twingo in GT form. It is strong with lots of low-down pull. It is quick as well with an impressive top speed of 117mph and 0-62mph takes just 9.8 seconds. Matched to a five-speed close ratio manual gearbox it will drive happily at 30mph in fifth gear in town traffic without any problem and it picks up readily to overtake slower traffic. Overall I’d say the Twingo GT is an accomplished car to drive rather than an out-and-out fun car. For those owners wanting to get from A to B without any fuss in a smart looking car and at a competitive price the Twingo will fit the bill.

Renault Laguna

2008-06-25T11:53:00.000Z

The Laguna estate is well equipped for business life. Its elegant cabin is supplemented by tough interior materials and a massive boot with clever features. Renault aims for the Laguna to be placed in the top three in its class for build quality and with its roominess and practicality the Laguna certainly makes a good proposition. The Laguna is a relaxed drive even when cruise control is not fitted or activated the motorway miles disappear, smoothly under the tyres, the steering is precise and gives good grip during cornering. Both the body and the suspension have been stiffened considerably and the anti-roll bar has been thickened but the ride is by no means harsh, but a bit more focused.

Once applied, the automatic handbrake (standard on all but base-spec models) senses when the vehicle is pulling forwards and automatically releases. This is great for smooth queuing on slopes and prevents unintentional rolling. Hasty manoeuvres or tight car parks can be difficult, due to Laguna’s long body and large turning circle. Although this is no different from many similar-sized estates, the optional parking sensors can help avoid a costly prang. GT models - from spring this year- get four-wheel-steering for greater grip and a more enjoyable driving experience. Renault calls this system "Active Drive" - the rear wheels move up to three degrees when the car is being driven on twisty roads. Another benefit of the system is that it reduces the size of the turning circle - around town the Laguna GT can turn is the same space as a Clio.

The cabin is roomy and comfortable. Front seats are supportive, with driver’s lumbar support standard across the range. The driver’s seat and steering wheel both offer plenty of adjustment, so a good driving position can be found quickly. The light-coloured wooden strip which spans the dashboard on Initiale models gives the cabin an upmarket look. The integrated audio (and optional sat-nav) system is controlled via a small dial on the centre-console. All models are equipped with either air conditioning or climate control. There’s a choice of four trim levels: Expression, Dynamique, Dynamique S and Initiale. As standard, Laguna comes with ABS with EBD, air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD/radio, electric door mirrors, electric front and rear anti-pinch windows, a leather steering wheel, ESP with traction control, and privacy glass. If you value stunning looks, relaxed cruising, a comfortable ride and fine handling and sheer driving enjoyment then the Renault Laguna is for you.

Renault Kangoo Express

2008-06-25T11:39:00.000Z

It is hard not to be impressed when a member of Renault’s staff informs you that, since its launch in November 1997, the Kangoo has sold 2.3 million units worldwide, with over half of these being LCV versions. Add in the fact that in LCV form, it has topped the European small van charts for ten years! Not a bad record by anyone’s standards. But, still time for a change, especially considering the competition has caught up and is now pushing for there own slice of the action, even more so in the commercial sector. So, bearing this in mind, it is no surprise that the new Kangoo vans have come out before the car version, which will not appear until 2009.

The new Renault Kangoo is very much a vehicle for the 21st century and it boasts modern, expressive styling, this being highlighted by a short ‘cobby’ front end. It comes in two versions, both sharing the same overall styling, but ‘Compact’ version being considerably smaller, which we will come onto in a minute. However, inside both this and the larger ‘Express’ have a capacious bright cockpit that is more in line with a car or MPV than a working vehicle. modern, expressive styling seem to have been the design key words as there is space to securely fit an A4 clip board on the dash, store two lap-top computers in the glove box, as well as an overhead shelf to swallow up whatever else you want to carry close to hand and out of sight.

Multimedia connectivity with Bluetooth capabilities helps make the driving and passenger area as good as any modern Health and Safety conscious office. Add in things like fully adjustable seats, adjustable steering wheel, cruise control, air con, parking sensors, automatic headlamp and wiper activation and driving is not going to get too stressful. Safety is high on the list with pretensioner belts and airbags all round if required. The cockpit forms a rigid non deformable survival cell to protect its occupants in the event of a crash and you have a choice of bulkheads or safety bars behind you. ABS, brake assist ASR traction control and ESC under-steer control, along with a load limiter make the specifications sound more like a top of the range family motor, rather than a working vehicle. For those times you need to increase the load capacity, providing you have no passenger, the front seat will collapse level with the rear floor to give extra length, if you do not opt for the fixed bulkhead.

The rear of the Express can now take loads between 3 and 3.60 cubic metres. The width between the rear wheel arches is 1.21 metres, which means that euro pallet will just slide in.
The smaller ‘Compact’ shares the width, but length is just 3.83 m long as opposed to 4.21m for the larger Express. The load capability is just 2.3 to 2.9 cubic metres, but the turning circle and ease of manoeuvrability is well worth opting for it if you do not have large loads to carry. Both have asymmetrical rear doors that have been beefed up and designed for constant use. A sliding side door (depending on specification) adds to usability and access. In other areas wings have been made of noryl, a supple composite material which absorb minor impacts without a trace. If it goes above that, the whole front end can be easily removed to cut down on labour costs!
Powering these new versions are three diesel engines, 70, 80 and 85bhp versions of the 1.5dCi unit. There are also two petrol engines, a 1.6 8V and 1.6V 105hp available. All are claimed to give low running costs. The list of options and extras also reads like those on a car brochure!

So what is it like to drive? Well the French launch had versions of both the Express and Compact with a route to ensure all aspects of the vehicle could be tested to the full. As result both were fully loaded to test the engines pulling capabilities in rural hilly areas as well as around town. The first thing that hits you is the interior space and general comfort, the dash mounted gear lever adding to this by keeping the floor area clear. There is also a reassuring clunk on the doors which gives a quality feel to things.

Built on the ‘Scenic’ chassis, it gives a level of handling not normally associated with a van of the genre. With a track 12cm wider at the front and back and a 10cm longer wheelbase compared to the existing version, the vehicle is very stable with little roll and pitch being noticeable even when loaded. (Obviously the Compact is shorter overall, although the track remains the same!). The electrically assisted power steering is also very useable and predictable at all speeds. On the Compact, its turning circle is superb and on the tight backstreets that formed part of our route, it put its sibling to shame, accomplishing several turns in one go that the larger model had to have a shunt on. As a city vehicle for light work, the Compact is a real city slicker without doubt!

Both test versions used the 85bhp motor and it showed itself to be more than up to the task. Even some steep climbs out in the French countryside were accomplished without the need to use the lowest gears. Wound up it had a fair turn of speed and will have no problem in the traffic light GP so beloved of cities the world over. At other times it cruised happily in an unstressed fashion and allowed normal conversation to take place without recourse to raised voices.
Gears seem well spaced and my only slight complaint is that the gear change is slightly notchy going through the five speed box, although you soon get used to it. Braking was fine thanks to the ventilated discs front and rear. Even fully loaded failed to give any heart stopping moments, despite some spirited driving at times. Really there is little to comment on, the new Kangoo is better in every way and Renault has managed to achieve a replacement that is still as recognisable as its predecessor.

Sure it is more modern. Certainly it is a spacious, roomy place of work that you can be sure is safe, as well as practical. However, it still maintains the main features that have made it number one for the last ten years. Renault once again seem to have set the standard and with the introduction of the ‘Compact’ to go with, upped the bar another notch. Quiet an achievement!

Nissan X-TRAIL

2008-05-30T10:17:00.002Z

New from the ground up the latest X-TRAIL boasts a new chassis and new body, an expanded range of more powerful engines providing better performance and economy. There’s more interior space, a much larger trunk area and greatly enhanced interior quality. The most obvious change inside the cabin, is the repositioning of the instrument cluster, which has been moved from the central stack to back behind the multi-function steering wheel. By returning the dials to a position directly ahead of the driver, Nissan have been able to place the navigation/reversing camera screen and the audio system higher up in the centre stack where the information they give are more easily seen. By improving the X-TRAIL on a number of levels but at the same time retaining its core appeal.

The X-TRAIL is fitted with a new diesel engine in 150bhp and 173bhp versions, the former with the option of automatic transmission. Each is impressively flexible, although the 173bhp diesel version benefits from more low-down pulling power than the 150bhp engine. There are also the 141bhp 2.0-litre and 169bhp 2.5-litre petrol engines to choose from. Both petrol-engined versions of X-TRAIL come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, but are also available with a refined continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with manual over-ride.

On Tarmac, the X-TRAIL strikes a fine balance between passenger comfort and driving pleasure, with suspension that provides a comfortable ride over any surface, yet also gives decent control through corners. Nissan’s latest electronically controlled ‘intelligent’ ALL MODE-i 4x4 system, which now works in parallel with hill start and descent control systems as well as reinforcing the X-TRAIL’s off-road capability, ALL MODE-i ensures that the dynamic performance on-road is stable, secure and predictable. By sending power to the wheels that have grip, understeer and oversteer is neutralised, which in turn leads to a more enjoyable, positive driving experience.

It is in the luggage area where the new X-TRAIL shows its versatility with a larger trunk than before and an innovative drawer unit that slides away under a false floor where valuables can be kept out of sight at all times. When the rear seats are folded, the new X-TRAIL provides a luggage area of 1649 litres and with the false floor removed, the load capacity is incresed to 1773 litres. X-TRAIL has sold in large numbers to European customers who appreciate its mix of practicality, ability and all-round performance and there is no reason to suggest that position will be any different for the new X‑TRAIL

The new Peugeot Partner van

2008-05-30T10:15:00.001Z

June sees the launch of the all-new Peugeot Partner light commercial van range. The new model will introduce a number of innovative features not seen before in this market segment. Originally launched in 1996, the Peugeot Partner has been extremely successful with over 60,000 sold in the UK, since its launch. Due to this success the original vehicle will still remain on sale alongside the new model, and will be renamed the Partner Origin.

The new Partner van is available with either panelled or glazed hinged rear doors, two sliding side doors and a rear tailgate with an opening rear tailgate glass. The problem of transporting long objects inside a small van has been made much easier in the new Partner van, with the availability of an ingenious interior “roof rack”. This special rack runs the entire length of the roof and is ideal for carrying items such as PVC tubing. The new van is 4.38m long and in standard format offers a load volume of 3.3 cubic metres (against the old model’s 3.0 cu m) and payloads of between 625kg and 850kg. The load area is wide enough to contain a standard Europallet while six load-lashing eyes will help keep cargo in place. Later in the year an extended model will be launched with the same wheelbase that will increase load volume further to 3.7 cubic metres.

Inside the cabin there are many different storage areas: around the fascia panel, above the driver’s head, in the doors and under the seats. The innovative Multi-Flex dual passenger seat offers unrivalled modularity and enables the vehicle to carry two passengers. The middle seat can be folded down which reveals a handy desk, while the outer passenger seat also folds to reveal extra cargo space, which allows for loads of up to 3m long to be carried.

Under the bonnet there is a choice of petrol and diesel engines. The 1.6 HDi diesel offers 75bhp or 90bhp, while returning over 45mpg on the combined cycle, the 1.6-litre petrol offers 90bhp, returning 34mpg on the combined cycle. Both the diesel and petrol engines are mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox. The new Partner van is equipped with four disc brakes and ABS with electronic brake force distribution (EBFD), emergency brake assist (EBA) and automatic illumination of the hazard warning lights during emergency braking. Vehicle running costs are an important factor to businesses and self employed people. To help lower running costs, the new Partner van benefits from extended service intervals of 12,500 miles or 2 years for diesel engines and 20,000 miles or 2 years for petrol engines. The new Partner van updates the firms’ successful small van offerings, promising versatility, value for money and a new best load capacity in the small panel van segment.

Volkswagens’ BlueMotion range

2008-05-30T10:13:00.001Z

With ‘green’ issues high on the agenda for car manufacturers and the buying public - both with increasing road tax charges based on CO2 emission levels and the increasing price of fuel - Volkswagen UK made a tour of the UK for the motoring media to sample the growing range of their BlueMotion models. BlueMotion which is essentially a brand name denotes the most fuel and CO2 efficient model in each of Volkswagen’s car ranges. In each vehicle a combination of revised aerodynamics, optimised gear ratios, a new turbocharger and hard compound tyres is applied. The effect is a reduction in loading on the engine resulting in a rise in efficiency and lower emissions.

Various aerodynamic changes have also been made to the BlueMotion car range, which include changes to the front spoiler below the front bumper, smaller intakes for the engine cooling system, a modified rear spoiler and different exterior mirror design. Lowered suspension is also employed on some versions. Further alterations include the use of low rolling resistance tyres. Although the BlueMotion models have undergone substantial modifications to increase efficiency, they still retain all the features of the standard cars on which they are based so not only are they conventional to service and repair, customers also do not have to compromise on safety, practicality or comfort.

All BlueMotion models have diesel engines, already renowned for their efficiency, which use Volkswagen’s ‘Pumpe Düse’ or unit injector technology. The Polo BlueMotion has a three-cylinder 1.4-litre TDI unit producing 80 PS, while all other models use as their base the 1.9-litre TDI 105 PS engine. Elsewhere on the drivetrain, the cars’ standard five-speed manual gearboxes are modified to lengthen the gearing in 3rd, 4th and 5th gears; this decreases engine speed and also improves economy. In the Golf this means a combined economy figure of 62.8 mpg and CO2 emissions of just 119 g/km, while the Golf BlueMotion’s 55-litre fuel tank allows for a theoretical range in excess of 750 miles.

These increases in efficiency don’t come at the expense of comfort or safety. All Golf BlueMotion models are fitted with climatic air conditioning as standard as well as a multifunction display advising on the optimum moment to change gear. The comprehensive roster of standard safety equipment includes ABS with Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), a total of six airbags, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and ASR traction control. The Match model adds alloy wheels, sports suspension, cruise control and leather trim for the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake grip. Its worth pointing out that from October 27th onwards the Polo BlueMotion and the new Golf BlueMotion, placed in Vehicle Excise Duty bands A and B respectively, will both be exempt from the London Congestion Charge. Volkswagen takes the environmental impact of its vehicles from production to end-of-life very seriously and is developing a number of processes to minimise any harmful effects on the environment. BlueMotion models use existing technology that has been refined to increase efficiency and reduce impact.

In future, Volkswagen plans to offer a wide range of more environmentally friendly technologies and mobility solutions. At the recent Geneva Motor Show, the company unveiled the Golf TDI Hybrid concept which uses for the first time a diesel engine in combination with an electric motor and the very latest seven-speed DSG gearbox. The car is capable of achieving 83 mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 89 g/km of CO2; around town the vehicle reverts to purely electric mode to be emission-free.

Skoda Fabia Estate

2008-05-30T10:09:00.001Z

The new Fabia Estate delivers increased practicality, greater refinement and even better value for money, based on the award winning Fabia Hatch, which was launched in May 2007. Customers choose from a simple range structure, with models badged 1, 2 and 3, Sport and GreenLine. All models are fitted with power steering, twin front, and side airbags and central locking. A reach and rake adjustable steering column is fitted as standard on all models, along with a height-adjustable driver’s seat and electric front windows with air conditioning and alloy wheels are fitted on level 2 and 3 models.

The Fabia is available with eight engines: four petrol and four diesel. Clean, efficient and great to use, with outputs from 60bhp to 105bhp. All engines in the Fabia range are linked to either a manual five-speed gearbox or a new six-speed automatic transmission. This is available for the 1.6-litre petrol version and is fitted with a Tiptronic function, which means all six ratios can be selected manually. All engines comply with EU-IV emissions levels. In terms of performance, the Fabia satisfies the most demanding of drivers. Top speeds range between 96 and 118mph, depending on engine choice, while the 0- 62mph sprint can be completed in as little as 10.1 seconds (1.6-litre 16v). All models are fitted with a large, 45-litre fuel tank.

Inside the cabin has a modern, upmarket feel with every element designed to make life on board even easier, with major new features such as the entertainment system being mounted higher up on the centre console. In addition to being at a more natural height, it also means drivers spend less time with their eyes away from the road. An auxiliary input socket is also included on all models for easy connection to a portable mp3 player. The dashboard assembly has a premium quality feel, while high-grade plastics and switchgear further enhance the high-end cabin ambience.

The Fabia balances the needs of its passengers with the demands of its driver it’s a flexible performer that’s easy to drive around town, with precise, light controls, good visibility and punchy engines. It’s just as good out of town, and can be driven confidently thanks to safe handling and assured road holding. The new Fabia Estate is an affordable option for companies or individuals looking to squeeze the most out of their budget.

Mazda2 1.5 Sport

2008-05-30T10:08:00.001Z

Streamlining is one of the areas that Mazda takes very seriously, with good aerodynamics comes better fuel consumption figures and reduced CO2 emissions. The front view is one of clean, tidy lines with a gently curved bonnet and integrated front bumper. Currently the Mazda2 is available as a five-door hatchback with two 1.3-litre (75PS and 86PS) and 1.5-litre (103PS) petrol engines plus a 1.4-litre 68PS diesel unit. There are three levels of specification, TS, TS2 and Sport. My test car was the 1.5 Sport which was flexible enough for in-town driving yet coped well with fast motorway journeys without too much stress. The suspension was on the firm side and this provided for plenty of front wheel drive grip on the open road with little body roll.

The new Mazda2 has brought some changes to the inside, too. The wheel-in-every-corner layout allows for a relatively spacious cabin. Despite being some 55mm shorter than the previous model, you now sit lower so there is plenty of headroom. While the rear legroom is moderate, it is adequate for adults and, as it is a 5-door hatch, the rear seats are easily accessed. The rear seats have the usual 60:40 split and fold function, except on the TS, which has a one-piece folding bench. The minimum boot space is a modest 250-litres but this can be increased to a maximum 787-litres with the rear seats folded and the five-door hatchback loaded to the roof.

Like the outside the interior is modern and bright, well laid out with good visibility thanks to its low waistline. The slim rear quarter pillars allow for good rear side vision. The main interior changes are in the front of the cabin where the 5-speed, manual shift has been moved and is now stack-mounted which makes for easier hand movement back to the steering wheel after a gear change. The driver’s seat height adjustment range has been increased and the rake-adjustable steering column has 50mm of travel, so it is easy to find a comfortable driving position. The dashboard is formed of two levels with the smoother top half containing the air vents and small instrument nacelle, which houses sporty, white dials, across the range. All Mazda2 models have electric front windows, only the Sport has rear electric windows. All models have stereo radio/CD and MP3 player, electric power steering, driver and front passenger airbags, remote locking and alarm and immobiliser. The new styling and range of colours will appeal to the younger generation without alienating the more traditional or existing Mazda2 customers

Mazda CX-7

2008-05-30T10:06:00.002Z

Mazda Motors is certain that the new Mazda CX-7 sports crossover vehicle will create a niche within a niche, bringing its ‘Zoom-Zoom’ sports car attitude to the traditional SUV sector. The Mazda CX-7 defines its own market as it is more oriented towards a sports car in its styling and driving dynamics, while retaining the commanding driving position, presence and stature of an off road vehicle. The exterior features a bold front end and bulging wheel arches to good effect. Manufactured in Japan, the CX-7 is already hugely popular in the USA, but for the European and UK markets changes have been made to best suit the demands of local consumers. The suspension set-up has also been retuned for European roads and delivers handling agility that is unmatched in its class. Part of the crossover concept combines sporty design with sports utility comfort and practicality, and the Mazda CX-7 has plenty of both. There is ample space for five occupants to travel in comfort, combining sports utility-style rear seat functionality and boot space makes it an ideal vehicle for multi-activity lifestyles. Each Mazda CX-7 is mechanically identical, with a 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, a six-speed manual transmission and Mazda’s unique Active Torque-Split 4WD system. The CX-7 has a top speed of 130mph and 0-62mph takes 8.0 seconds.
The boot is large, flexible and rugged with a 455-litre cargo bay with all seats upright and more than 1m long, large enough to carry three golf bags with ease. The split rear seats can be folded 60:40 using Mazda’s unique Karakuri system with a one-touch rear seat back release located in the boot trim. With the back seats folded, load space is increased to 774 litres. The boot floor has a reversible water-proof trunk board made of robust plastic so soiled items can be transported without staining the carpet.

The highly-specified Mazda CX-7 comes with a generous level of equipment as standard. Every vehicle has features such as; cruise control, electric windows front and rear, climate control air-conditioning, powered driver’s seat with six-way adjustment and manual lumbar support, heated front seats and a bespoke BOSE® premium audio system with 6-CD autochanger and nine speakers. Customers can choose from a range of options such as front and rear parking sensors, satellite navigation, a roof carrier and detachable tow-bar. For the sporty-minded the Mazda CX-7 has exhilarating dynamics and genuine everyday practicality and remarkable refinement it is the ultimate expression of ‘Zoom-Zoom’ driving excitement in a sophisticated four-wheel drive crossover vehicle.

Nissan Pathfinder

2008-04-30T11:40:00.001Z

At first glance the Nissan Pathfinder is quite imposing to look at, step inside however you will find a space as civilised and comfortable as an executive estate. The Pathfinder comes in three versions; the Trek, which is a 5-seater and the Sport and Aventura, which have seven seats. All models use the Nissan 2.5-litre 171HP dCi engine. Top speed is just under 110mph, 0-62mph takes just 11.8 seconds and the average fuel consumption with a manual transmission is 28.8 mpg. All models have a six-speed manual transmission as standard with the option to have an automatic, except on the Trek.

At the front of the Aventura’s cabin, the driver gets an 8-way, power-adjustable seat, which can be set, along with the mirror positions, in one of the two memory buttons. The front passenger has 4-way power-adjustment to their seat and both are heated. Controls are well located and mostly self-explanatory in their operation. All Pathfinders have dual-zone climate control but the Aventura gains an extra control for the rear heating and air-conditioning. Other top-of-the-range goodies include Xenon headlamps, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and an electric tilt and slide sunroof. In terms of specification the Aventura comprises of; DVD Satellite-Navigation, a colour rear-view reversing camera, Premium Audio system with MP3 compatibility, Bluetooth telephone connectivity, voice-activation for both navigation and phone, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, auto headlights and the Intelligent Key system.

Around town, it feels more compact than it actually is with decent visibility and light, accurate steering. It's a similar story on A and B roads, where good grip and limited bodyroll gives it a feeling more akin to a large estate rather than a 4x4.
All models have two or four-wheel drive, high or low ratio gear selection with electronic stability control and traction control as standard. The Nissan Pathfinder really does offer the best of both worlds.

Peugeot 207 Van

2008-04-30T11:39:00.002Z

Based on the 207 three door hatchback model, the 207 Van shares the same overall length of 4.03 m, width of 1.92 m, wheel base of 2.54 m and overall height of 1.47 m. This provides a maximum load area of 1.1 m3 and a payload of 450 kg. With its’ sporty lines and its obvious attention to detail make the exterior very eye catching, but when you step inside its clear that this is a small van that’s big on luxury.Our van on test was a 90bhp 1.6HDi diesel engine fitted with a manual five speed gearbox reaching 0-62mph in 11.2 seconds. Get behind the wheel and you’ll know it means business. On the road gear changing is smooth with excellent traction offering all the performance you or your drivers could need, means it not only delivers the goods on longer journeys, but it’s also exceptionally manoeuvrable around town. With its car like comfort and equipment levels it provides an ideal vehicle for city centre deliveries and companies who need to transport small loads such as mail or documents etc…

The 207 Van benefits from all the structural safety features of the hatchback, standard equipment includes: power steering, driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbags, remote control central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows – “one touch” for driver, steering column adjustable for reach and rake, radio / single CD player, passenger seat height adjustment, driver seat height adjustment, body-coloured door mirrors, ABS with EBFD and EBA.
The 207 Van is a highly efficient worker. Low fuel consumption, reasonable insurance premiums and sensible service bills will help keep your running costs down while the intelligent application of design means that any unexpected repairs may also cost less than you might think. The 207 Van respects the environment as much as it does your bottom line.

Citroen C2

2008-04-30T11:36:00.001Z

The eye catching C2 1.6HDi VTS has distinctive and contemporary styling, conveying an individualistic and adventurous little character. This little beauty offers an unbeatable combination of punchy performance, low emissions and money-saving fuel economy of well over 60mpg. With its refined 110hp 1.6HDi engine, and 5-speed manual gearbox, this new C2 boasts a 0-62mph time of 9.4 seconds and a top speed of 120mph. It also delivers 80% more torque than its petrol stablemate.

The sports styling emphasises the performance qualifications of this model, which is the first diesel supermini to sport the VTS insignia. Importantly, the C2 1.6HDi VTS also has excellent green credentials offering a frugal 64mpg on the combined cycle and with CO2 emissions of just 119g/km, the new VTS model presents an environmentally conscious alternative in the hot hatch market. This means that the model falls into one of the Government’s lowest bands for Vehicle Excise Duty - Band B.

Complementing its sporty image, environmental credentials and fun-to-drive handling the HDi VTS comes with all the trimmings too - smart 16” ‘Cheetah’ alloy wheels, a chrome-effect exhaust tailpipe, spoiler, body-coloured side rubbing strips and bumpers, aluminium-effect door handles, alloy pedals, front fog lights, tinted windows, rev counter, racy red-accented upholstery - plus a comprehensive specification including side airbags, stability control, alarm, air conditioning and a CD player.

The stiffened suspension with additional rear anti-roll bar and wider wheels of the C2 VTS translate to a responsive driving experience - just how you expect a hot hatch to be. The VTS is responsive and controllable: it corners confidently and it grips like glue to the road. Ride quality isn't especially harsh either so it will cope easily with those drive-thru speed humps. The C2 VTS looks good, it’s tightly priced, affordable to insure and is fun to drive.

Peugeot 207 SW

2008-04-30T11:35:00.001Z

Sporty looks combine with true practicality on the Peugeot 207 SW. Its appearance is distinctive with an opening rear tailgate window, integrated roof rails and a Cielo glass roof. Meanwhile, the interior manages to be both compact and spacious with flexibility to accommodate bulky cargo.
The SW has a smaller engine line-up than the more common hatchback. A 1.4-litre petrol engine with 90bhp kicks off the range. Next up is the 1.6-litre with 120bhp which is well suited to motorway conditions. One 1.6-litre diesel engine is offered, available with either 90 or 110bhp. There’s no shortage of safety options either with ABS technology, emergency brake assist and dynamic stability control.

All 207 SW models have a full length panoramic glass sunroof which gives the interior a light and airy feel, with electrically operated sunblind, tailgate with a separate opening rear window section, roof bars, fold flat split rear seats, a clever three piece load area cover, air conditioning, electrically operated heated door mirrors, electric windows, trip computer, front, side and curtain airbags, stereo radio and CD player.

The 207 SW may be a compact estate, but there's plenty of room in the back. The load area with the seats in place is 428 litres this increases to a useful 1,433 litres with the rear seats folded. A good feature is that the rear seats easily fold down to provide a completely flat load area. The load area length is 1,694mm and the maximum interior width is 1,414mm. The maximum towing capacity is 1,110kgs.
The 207 SW is easy and comfortable to drive. Around town the steering is light and the gear change is precise. Its also easy to park, manoeuvre and nip-in-and-out of traffic. The Peugeot 207 SW aims to restore your passion for driving with carefully crafted suspension, high-performance and electric power steering making it excellent in all driving conditions.

Peugeot 607

2008-04-30T11:33:00.001Z

The 607 has an eye-catching exterior with sleek curves and a dynamic appearance. The stylish looks of the 607 have always been one of its key qualities, alongside modern engineering and technology. In November 2004, the 607 was restyled and further improvements to the standard equipment levels were introduced, making the choice of exterior colour the only option. The 607 2.2 litre HDi 170bhp is fitted with Peugeot’s 6-speed ML6C manual gearbox and is available in only one trim level – Executive – So you can tear up the option list as every possible option is fitted as standard.

The interior is trimmed in Astrakan black leather with aluminium detailing on the centre console. The electrically adjustable front seats make finding the ideal driving position very easy, especially as the driver’s seat adjustment can be memorised, as can the position of the rear-view door mirrors. A simple touch of the “boot” button on the remote control key fob causes the boot to open automatically, the motorised control can also be activated by pressing the “0” of the “607” badge at the base of the boot panel. Automatic closing of the boot is activated by pressing a dedicated button located on the edge of the lower boot panel.

Large and comfortable front seats along with steering adjustable for reach and height ensure most people will find their ideal driving position quite easily. On the open road the car feels very responsive and resists body roll in corners well, with precise steering and plenty of grip, while power levels are never so high as to provoke much wheel spin at the front. The 607 offers a very refined drive with muted engine noise and low levels of tyre and wind noise. The Peugeot 607 is built for safety with a high-performance braking system and a reinforced body structure for added security.

Peugeot 308

2008-04-30T11:32:00.002Z

One of the latest additions to the Peugeot range, the 308 has a stunning design that comes as standard throughout the range. The key to the Peugeot 308 however, is choice. The Peugeot 308 Urban is the entry-level design but even it includes an HDi 90 bhp engine which can boast best-in-class CO2 emissions. At the top end of the scale comes the Peugeot 308 GT with its sporty front grille and bumper that instantly grabs attention, as well as extras including half-leather interiors and 18” alloys.
Six engines are offered in the Peugeot 308: three diesels and three petrols. The petrol units have been co-developed by Peugeot and BMW, and are available as a 1.4 and two 1.6s, offering 95, 120 and 150bhp respectively. The diesels come in two 1.6 variants, producing 90 or 110bhp and a 136bhp 2.0 litre all producing a great balance of accessible performance and exceptional fuel economy.

Peugeot has put a huge effort into the refinement of the 308. The spacious and airy interior should accommodate five adults without too much complaint, and a glass roof is also fitted on some models. The rear seats fold flat and the rear arm rest area can double as a through-load facility for long items. There are several storage spaces in the cabin, including drawers under the front seats on top models. The rear parcel shelf also includes a small covered storage area.

The 308 has also been designed to maximise interior space as well as retain many of the ‘fun-to-drive’ characteristics of Peugeots in the past. Body control is pretty good on twisty roads the car has a general reassuring feel when pressing on, as well as a firm but compliant ride in the tradition of some of Peugeot's larger cars. Engine noise and wind noise are kept well under control. The new Peugeot 308 has everything you need for a safe, comfortable journey.

Citroen C-Crosser

2008-03-31T08:43:00.001Z

Citroen has never sold an off-roader before, but that hasn't stopped the C-Crosser being a cracker. It's stylish, comfortable inside and good to drive. C-Crosser is a big, roomy; car and can comfortably seat five with lots of head and legroom. The two seats in the third row are designed for children only - Citroen describes the C-Crosser as a 5+2 rather than a fully-blown seven-seater. When in five-seat mode, there's a decent amount of luggage space. The second row of seats folds quickly and easily to create a car with impressive load carrying ability (they also slide forward for extra room). The second row of seats are split 60:40 and the tailgate opening is split, allowing a flat loading area with the lower portion open.

The PSA 2.2 litre diesel engine which is lean and green with low CO2 emissions and a Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS) offers a good combination of performance, economy and environmental protection. The 2.2-litre156 bhp HDi diesel engine features direct common-rail injection and is capable of using a 30% mixture of biodiesel without any modifications. Delivering a driving experience that is both dynamic and pleasurable, the engine boasts impressive fuel economy and emissions performance, among the best in the SUV sector. Top speed is 124mph and 0-62mpg is covered in just 9.9 seconds. The engine is combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox to make the best use of the high-torque characteristics of the 2.2-litre HDi diesel engine.The C-Crosser is surprisingly agile for its size and capable of covering ground on back roads quickly. It feels stable at all times with surprisingly little body roll for a large 4x4. Grip is also good, making it possible to corner quickly. The steering is responsive and not too heavy at parking speeds.

The C-Crosser on-demand 4WD system enables the driver to select three modes of drive, while on the move. First is Permanent 2WD, intended for normal tarmac use, with all power directed to the front wheels. In Automatic 4WD, engine torque is delivered automatically to wheels that require the most traction at any time. Should you find yourself in a sticky situation however, you might need to select Permanent 4WD. This set-up splits torque 50:50 between front and rear wheels. The idea of all this technology is to give the Citroen C-Crosser the best of both worlds, enabling it to tackle reasonably rough terrain, yet still provide acceptable on-road dynamic behaviour and competitive fuel economy. The C-Crosser continues Citroens’ reputation for producing engaging cars with dynamic and safe road characteristics.

Space and Versatility

2008-03-31T08:41:00.001Z

The new Golf Estate which launched in August last year is the third incarnation of Volkswagen’s popular load-carrier. The Golf Estate was designed to be stylish and incorporates many elements of Volkswagen’s new ‘face’, similar to that on the Eos and Jetta. With a large-capacity rear-end and a modestly powered engine line-up, the Estate version drives pleasantly enough in a safe, totally predictable manner. Light steering and gear change help make it easy to pilot and there's a feeling of security and solidity about its behaviour on the road.

The 1.6-litre 102PS petrol engine is adequate for running about in, but heavy loads or long distance use will be better served by one of the diesel options. There's a 1.9-litre with 105PS, which should suit most needs, or a 2.0-litre with 140PS which has the performance to hold it's own in most situations. The 1.6 and 1.9 have a five-speed gearbox and the 2.0-litre has a six-speed, while a DSG automatic gearbox is available as an alternative on both the diesels.

The cabin provides plenty of room for those in the front, and there's easily room enough for two adults or three kids in the back. Drivers of all shapes and sizes should have no difficulty getting a good driving position thanks to fully adjustable driver's seat that includes height adjustment, and a height and reach adjustable steering wheel. The interior design is attractive with a quality that is on a par with the best rivals. The controls are all easy to find and use and the blue back-lit dials used by VW look great when the lights are on. The ride is reasonably smooth and wind and tyre noise levels are acceptable at normal speeds

This latest generation of Golf Estate brings additional versatility and load-carrying ability to the Golf range just lift the rear hatch and you'll find the largest boot. Load space is 505 litres with the seats in place, rising to 1,550 litres when the rear seats are folded flat into the boot floor. The Estate has further practical touches in the form of a bag hook in the luggage area, storage sections under the boot floor and in the side of the boot and roof rails. SE versions also have a load-through hatch in the centre arm rest. Although aimed squarely at the fleet market the Golf Estate will be a good alternative for growing families, offering plenty of space and all the usual reasons for buying a Volkswagen Golf.

Sizing Up

2008-03-31T08:38:00.001Z

The Expert Tepee comes in two formats – a standard and long wheelbase body length – and is particularly aimed at professional drivers especially those who specialise in passenger and baggage transportation. It could be an economical choice for your business too, you can choose between two impressive HDi Euro IV turbo diesel engines, a 1.6-litre 90bhp unit with a five speed manual transmission and a 2.0-litre 120bhp unit with a six speed manual gearbox.
Behind the wheel the driver’s seat provides a good comfortable driving position and offers superb visibility thanks to its generous glazed surface area. Leisure specification models come with velour-covered seats, and contrasting colours on the dashboard make the Tepee a pleasant environment in which to travel. In performance terms the road holding, overall handling, steering control and braking are similar to any large MPV, body-roll is limited so passengers receive a flat and comfortable ride. No problems keeping pace with motorway traffic, nor with getting away quickly from the traffic lights.

The vehicle is able to carry from two to nine people, and features individual seats for all passengers ensuring the maximum level of comfort. Access to the seats is made even easier using the sliding side door and the "easy entry" system, which lets you tilt the outer seat to get to your favourite place. The Tepee range is available with two seating configurations for both standard and long wheelbase models with either 5/6 or 8/9 layouts using either two or three rows of seats. The driver’s compartment can have either two individual seats or an individual driver’s seat and a bench seat for two passengers. Every one of the seats is a proper adult-sized affair and can be folded down or removed completely, so it’s possible to undo Peugeots best efforts and turn the Tepee back into an Expert van again.

There are two levels of specification Comfort and Leisure. Standard specification includes ABS braking with electronic brakeforce distribution, a driver’s airbag, deadlocks, remote central locking, rear door child locks, height and reach adjustable steering column, power assisted steering, electric front windows, heated rear window with a wiper and a radio and CD player. There are lots of storage compartments and well placed overhead bins in the driver’s cabin.
An esteemed history in vehicular production, Peugeot remains a master of all trades and no matter what type of car you’re looking for the Peugeot range is sure to fulfil your needs

Suzuki GSX 650F

2008-03-31T08:34:00.002Z

New for 2008 in the Suzuki line-up is the latest incarnation of the GSX-F, this time in a 650 version, a bike that could easily be of real interest to the dispatch rider for a variety of reasons not least price and specification and low maintenance costs. It is also a bike that has style with an all-round practicality, at an affordable price, or as Suzuki put it ‘it is an all day sports bike’. Hence you get the style and colour scheme of the phenomenal GSX-R sport-bike range.

The riding position though is relatively upright and comfortable, with good handlebar to seat to pegs relationships and the one-piece seat is well padded and comfortable. It has a relatively low seat height at just 770mm, which will help shorter people. The frame is a double cradle tubular steel affair with a conventional swing-arm at the rear and 41mm conventional telescopic forks at the front. These have pre-load adjustment, while at the rear the single KYB shock gets the addition of rebound damping to go with pre-load.

The wheelbase is a sensible 1470 mm and the there is just 26 degrees of rake to help give the bike a very neutral, stable feeling at all times. Bridgestone tyres in the shape of a 120/70 section front and 160/60 section rear are mounted on 17-inch cast alloy wheels and give credibility as well as handling. Sitting right in the middle of all of this, is the now well established liquid cooled, four-cylinder, across the frame, four-stroke motor with Suzuki’s Dual Throttle Valves (SDTV) digital fuel injection fuelling things. All of this is then enveloped in a fairing that very definitely has its DNA in their sport bike range. Stacked headlights and the gear indicator and the programmable shift light imbedded in the console reinforce this.

You sit in the GSX650F, it feels comfortable, the motor is smooth and willing and the bike feels right from the moment you turn on the ignition. The bike is well balanced at walking speeds and there is plenty of lock, ideal for heavy traffic. On the open road, the bike can be thrown around with consummate ease. If you are prepared to work it, you can have an awful lot of fun. Power delivery is very linear throughout and it is very hard to detect any power-band as such, but top speed is around an adequate 125mph. The fairing works well, keeping the worst of the blast at bay and gives good protection.

Fun and Flexible

2008-03-31T08:32:00.001Z

It’s a dilemma faced by thousands of car buyers they want the style and practicality of a 4x4, but feel unable to justify the compromised dynamics, economy and performance of a big off-roader. Now Vauxhall can offer a car which fulfils all their needs the stylish Antara, both inside and out are matched by a quality feel which will mean that owners of larger 4x4s will be able to downsize to an Antara without feeling short changed. The Antara is a five-seat compact 4x4 it's comfortable, easy to drive around town, cruises’ well on motorways and is generously well equipped.

There are two engines available - a 2.4 litre 140PS petrol engine and a 2.0-litre 150PS CDTi diesel, Vauxhall expects the turbo-diesel to be the top seller, taking more than 90 percent of sales. With 150bhp, the 2.0-litre CDTi has a useful amount of power; it gets from 0-60mph in 11.1 seconds and onto a top speed of 111mph. There's a choice of a five-speed manual and automatic gearboxes on the diesel. Antara has an 'on demand' four-wheel drive system, which means that there's no need to worry about low ratios and engaging a separate gearbox when the going gets rough - Antara does all the thinking and provides power to the wheels that aren't slipping. There's even a hill descent control system that aids the driver when going downhill off-road.

The driver’s environment is very businesslike with chunky, no-nonsense, steering-wheel with chrome highlights, in front of easily-read instruments. The gunmetal-effect, centre console is topped by a small, recessed information screen but is dominated by three, large central, air vents, there’s plenty of space for five adults to enjoy their journey in comfortable seats. There’s plenty of storage, too, in the various nooks and crannies, under the front passenger seat and the useful bins in the cargo area. With all of the seats in place there are 370-litres of luggage space, if you take advantage of the 60:40 split and fold the seats, this increases to 865-litres. A neat option is a pull-out bike rack from the rear bumper, which means that there's no need to fit a cumbersome aftermarket bike rack to the rear. Vauxhall’s re-entry into the 4x4, SUV market is bound to be a crowd-pleaser and not just with those loyal to the company. Even with so many newcomers to the segment, the Antara might just have the edge in looks alone, but then, it depends on your needs and wish-list.

"Get more in" "Get more done"

2008-02-28T16:10:00.001Z

The all-new Caddy Maxi creates a new class of compact van for Volkswagen between the Caddy and Transporter ranges as its name suggests, the new Caddy Maxi is 47 cm longer than the award-winning Caddy. With the Caddy, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is building an urban delivery vehicle to its own plan for the first time. Production is carried out at the Poznan plant in Poland. The Caddy has given Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles the chance to profit from the scale effects of high volume VW production for the first time. By the use of modules from the Golf V and also the Touran, a higher use of common parts can be achieved. The front end is basically the same as that of the Touran thought it has been adapted to the specific requirements of a commercial vehicle.

Three engines are available for the Caddy Maxi a 1.6 litre (102hp) petrol engine. Entry into the diesel world is provided, as before, with the proven 1.9 litre TDI (105 HP), which accelerates the Caddy Maxi to 62mph in 13.3 seconds. The most powerful engine for the Caddy Maxi is the 2.0 litre (140 HP) TDI and is recommended as a superior power source even at full payload capacity the sprint from 0 to 62mph is completed in just 10.5 seconds with a maximum speed of 115mph where the law permits. The 1.9-litre TDI is available with a five-speed manual gearbox or with Volkswagen’s advanced six-speed DSG gearbox with DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter); and new 2.0-litre engine with DPF and six-speed manual gearbox. Depending on the engine, the Caddy Maxi can also tow trailers of up to 1500 kilograms in weight.

The Caddy Maxi handles well on A roads and B roads and does not wallow or pitch around corners, it's easy to manoeuvre, predictable in its responses and feels stable and secure on the road and offers a lively performance even without a load in the back. The steering is positive and the ride comfortable. You could be forgiven for thinking you are not actually in a commercial vehicle, so quiet is the ride and engine noise.

Inside, the Caddy Maxi takes cabin comfort to the maximum. The driver's seat can be adjusted in height for an optimal view over the instruments and for safe handling the steering wheel can also be adjusted for height and rake. German cars and vans all feature seats which at first feel a little hard and upright and the Caddy Maxi is no exception. It’s only after a couple of hundred miles behind the wheel without a back twinge that you come to realise that these seats are very good indeed and that maybe you were wrong to pre-judge them. There is a generous overhead storage area, two in-dash storage trays, a centre console with four drinks holders and more storage space. In the front doors it is even possible to store 1.5 litre bottles without them tipping over. The list of options available for all models includes alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, a leather trimmed, multi-function steering wheel, cruise control and heated front seats. Separate options for the panel and window vans include air conditioning, an ‘electric pack’ with electric windows and heated, adjustable door mirrors, or an ‘appearance pack’ with body-coloured bumpers and wing mirrors.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has recognised the sign of the times in terms of load compartment and payload and has set the right benchmarks in this category of urban delivery vehicles with 4.2 cubic meters of the cargo area. The Caddy Maxi panel van is well suited to the express delivery and sameday courier industry with its large carrying capacity, sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle the Caddy Maxi is one of the biggest and best models among the compact small transporters. Behind the driver and co-driver's seat is a solid partition. This is available either as a full partition from top to bottom or with a window in the upper area of view. The load length is 2.25m and the width between the wheel arches is 1.17m with a load height of 1.25m offering enough space for a Euro pallet to slide in. At 730kg, the payload of the new Caddy panel van is the peak in its class, irrespective of the engine type. As an option, there is also an upgrade available to 800kg. The conventional Caddy will continue to be offered in addition to the new Maxi model. The Caddy has proved itself to be a firm favourite with UK van buyers through its mix of versatility, tight packaging and comprehensive standard equipment and load carrying ability. Ahead of this year CV Show at the NEC in Birmingham Ralf Schueler Head of Marketing for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles said “The CV show is an important and prestigious event and this year we are proud to showcase the new Volkswagen Caddy Maxi as well as the Caddy BlueMotion environmental concept. After another record year of sales in 2007 and maintaining our position as number one van importer, the CV show will be a great opportunity to meet our existing customers plus even more new ones”

The perfect compact van

2008-02-28T16:07:00.001Z

Inside, comfort and convenience take pride of place. Modern, bright and functional, the interior has been designed to be easy to use. It is robust and comprehensive with a four dial instrument panel, a multifunction display, warning lights and a centre console. The latter also houses the ventilation or air conditioning controls, the radio and the hands-free phone kit, depending on which options are chosen.

An important factor when choosing a commercial vehicle is the running costs. The Bipper has been designed to keep these costs to a minimum. It has extended service intervals requiring a service only every 20,000 miles or 2 years, regardless of engine type. The timing belt is replaced every 140,000 miles or 10 years on the diesel engine, and 90,000 miles or 10 years on the petrol version.

A perfect match

2008-02-28T16:05:00.001Z

PSA Peugeot Citroën recently unveiled its new Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner vans at its Vigo plant in Spain, where the two vehicles are produced. The vehicles represent a total investment of €660 million, of which €334 million has been for research and development, the new models are completely revised versions of the original vans, they build on earlier strengths, with more comfort, space and equipment levels to match the latest mid-range family cars. With the new Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner small vans, PSA Peugeot Citroën boasts the youngest and the most extensive line up of light commercial vehicles offered by a European automotive manufacturer. The two vehicle ranges have been entirely renewed and expanded in less than two years. Each marque will offer five van families this year, ranging from the small Citroën Nemo and Peugeot Bipper city-use vans, to the Citroën Jumpy and Peugeot Expert compact vans.Thanks to this broad range of vans covering a wide array of load volumes and payloads, PSA Peugeot Citroën offers solutions capable of satisfying the most diverse business user requirements.

The Peugeot Partner and the Citroën Berlingo update both firms’ successful small van offerings promising versatility, value for money and a new best load capacity in the small panel van segment. The new van is 4.38m long and in standard format offers a load volume of 3.3 cubic metres (against the old model’s 3.0 cu m) and payloads of between 625kg and 850kg. Later in the year an extended model will be launched with the same wheelbase that will increase load volume further to 3.7 cubic metres. The load area is wide enough to contain a standard Europallet while six load-lashing eyes will help keep cargo in place.

As a vehicle designed with the understanding that its users may need to spend many hours in it, the door openings are wide and the controls ergonomically designed. With a height adjustable driver’s seat and a height and depth adjustable steering wheel it is very easy for the driver to find a comfortable driving position. Inside the passenger compartment there are many different storage areas: around the fascia panel, above the driver’s head, in the doors and under the seats. The innovative Multi-Flex dual passenger seat offers unrivalled modularity and enables the vehicle to carry two passengers. The middle seat can be folded down which reveals a handy desk, while the outer passenger seat also folds to reveal extra cargo space, which allows for loads of up to 3m long to be carried. Comfort features include self-regulating air-conditioning, automatic headlight activation and rain sensors, while safety features include ABS and front airbags as standard equipment and head curtain airbags, ESP and cruise control as options. Under the bonnet there is a choice of petrol and diesel engines. The 1.6 HDi diesel offers 75bhpP or 90bhp, while returning over 45mpg on the combined cycle, the 1.6-litre petrol offers 90bhp, returning 34mpg on the combined cycle. Both the diesel and petrol engines are mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox.

Another innovation is that the Berlingo and Partner will be the Group’s first vehicles to offer a remote fleet management system. Thanks to an aftermarket service based on a telematics device installed on the vehicle, fleet managers will be able to check mileage, service dates, brake pad wear and oil levels via email messages that arrive directly in their inbox. By providing invaluable vehicle data, this solution simplifies fleet tracking and maintenance and enables managers to optimise their spending. Beginning in May 2008, these new vehicles will complete the line-up and the previous generation will remain in the catalogue as a redefined range of Berlingo First and Partner Origin.

Kia Sorento

2008-02-28T16:03:00.000Z

What do you do with a car that's just three years old, that's won a string of awards and that's consistently been a top-six seller in its sector? Well, if your name's Kia and the model in question is the Sorento, you give it a complete overhaul to keep it at the forefront of the SUV sector. The Sorento was Kia's first foray into the high-end SUV market. Designed with European input and with European buyers in mind, it has been a huge success. Kia's big 4x4 is big on looks, big on value and big on ability.

The revised model uses the same body panels as the original car. But new front and rear bumpers, projection-style headlamps, tail lights and body mouldings give it a more elegant and modern appearance. The engine line-up kicks off with Kia's acclaimed 2.5-litre 168bhp, four-cylinder, 16-valve common-rail engine, there’s a new 3.3-litre V6 petrol engine which has replaced the former 3.5-litre unit and has an extra 48bhp, trimming its 0-62mph time to 8.9 seconds. The diesel is available with five-speed manual or automatic gearboxes, while the V6 will be sold only as an automatic. Higher top gear ratios in both gearboxes reduce cruising noise levels, and the automatic also features Kia's Sports Mode, allowing manual override of gear changes.

On the road the Sorento is just as good as any comparable vehicle and off-road it is surprisingly capable, making it perfectly possible to climb aboard and head for anywhere between the Cairngorms and the New Forest with complete confidence. It has a user-friendly 4x4 system, which means you don't have to be an off-road expert to get the best from it. In fact, keep the system in auto and it senses when the wheels are slipping and diverts power to those that aren't. Lock it into '4x4' and power is distributed to all four wheels.

It's easy and comfortable to drive, even over longer distances. The seat is multi-adjustable and steering wheel adjusts for height (but not reach). The interior is tastefully designed and looks modern and attractive. There's a generously sized boot that's accessed via a tailgate, the seats split 60:40 and fold totally flat for a very useful load area. The rear screen is hinged, too, so you can drop bags in without opening the main tailgate. It's pretty practical inside, too, with a large centre storage box, a decent-sized glovebox and various cubbies. Legislation may be starting to target 4x4s but the public shows little sign of ending its love affair with the SUV.

Kia Magentis

2008-02-28T16:01:00.001Z

Bosses at Kia are not letting the grass grow under their feet. The latest is the new generation Magentis, which is the last model in the Kia line-up to be updated. Updated, however, is probably the wrong word to use, for the car is totally new from the tyres up. In the words of managing director Paul Williams: "The only thing that's the same on this car is the name."

Diesel power, modern and dynamic styling, European-standard ride and handling, top-level safety…the latest, all-new version of Kia’s Magentis saloon is more capable than ever of meeting the expectations of both private and fleet users. The option of a turbodiesel engine for the first time makes the new Magentis able to compete in the fleet market on level terms with the top-selling Ford Mondeo, Vauxhall Vectra and Volkswagen Passat. It will also appeal to cost-conscious private buyers who enjoy the excellent driveability, superb economy and greater range between fill-ups that comes with diesels. A modified version of the 138bhp 2.0-litre common-rail unit also fitted to the Kia Sportage, gives the new Magentis a combined fuel figure of 47.1 mpg, while low carbon dioxide emissions of 162g/km put the car in the 22% band for company car taxation purposes. Two petrol engines are available in the new Magentis - the all-new 2.0-litre Theta unit developing 142bhp, and a revised version of the smooth 185bhp 2.7-litre V6 that comes with a new five-speed automatic transmission as standard. Four-cylinder engines are available with manual or automatic gearboxes. Delivering a driving experience that is both dynamic and pleasurable, the steering feels positive and turns in neatly and precisely, while remaining resistant to body roll when required to turn hard. The Magentis has plenty of grip and copes well with sudden changes of direction.

Inside the cabin is roomy and easy to get in and out of, there is plenty of leg, shoulder and head room in the smart cabin. All versions are well-equipped. GS models have air conditioning, front, side and curtain airbags, an MP3-compatible radio/CD player, driver's seat height adjustment and a tilt-adjust steering column, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, powered and heated door mirrors, four electric windows and remote central locking. LS models have in addition automatic lights, a trip computer, telescopic steering wheel adjustment, full climate control with an air quality monitoring system, powered driver's seat and heated front seats and stability and traction control with emergency brake assist. The new Magentis offers very relaxed motoring for both driver and passengers alike.

From a cee’d Kia grows

2008-02-28T16:00:00.002Z

Hot on the heels of the cee’d hatchback, comes the cee’d SW. It is Kia’s first ever estate car and one, which the company hopes, will build on the success of the 5-door. The Kia cee’d SW packs a big value punch. It's attractive, filled with little luxuries and comes with an unrivalled seven-year warranty as standard. More than 80 per cent of C-segment car sales are to fleet buyers but Kia believes that the cee’d SW will provide a good alternative to private customers, who are looking towards SUV’s. The engine line up is pretty good, it comes with a 120bhp 1.6 petrol engine and a 1.6 diesel (89bhp or 113bhp), and two trim levels, GS and LS. Kia tells us that a 2.0-litre diesel could be added to the line-up should there be enough demand. In the meantime, these three, 1.6 engines, come with the standard 5 speed manual gearbox but the petrol and higher output diesel units are also available with an optional, 4-speed automatic transmission.

The interior looks smart, feels modern and is user-friendly. The driver’s seat adjusts for height and the steering wheel adjusts for reach and height, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. All-round visibility is pretty good, though the view out of the back can often be slightly restricted. cee’d SW offers a comfortable and relaxing drive. There's plenty of grip and it corners well and feels comfortable when driven quickly on B-roads and country lanes. All cars have power steering, which makes it a breeze to drive around town, carry out three-point turns and parking.

Plenty of room all round with ample room in the back for two adults or two children. Leg and headroom is good for all on board and it’s pretty quiet on the move. The interior is bright and pleasant to be in. All cars have MP3 compatibility through an Ipod and USB connection and the CD player can play MP3 CDs. The cee’d SW is significantly roomy offering 534 litres of load space, including 55-litres under the load platform. Taking full advantage of the 60:40-split, rear seats increases the load-lugging to a maximum of 1664-litre. With the tailgate hinges being further forward, the load aperture gapes larger than normal making it easy to load bulky items. The Kia cee’d SW is a good solid car for people on the move, whether it be a company car or simply for transporting family and friends. It has a certain amount of elegance along with the inherent flexibility of an estate car.

The ultimate drivers’ van

2008-02-28T15:58:00.001Z

Astravan Sportive SE, brings new levels of stylish design and driver appeal to the commercial vehicle market. With high-performance, fuel-efficient diesel engines and sports-themed styling features, the Astravan Sportive SE joined the line-up by popular demand, after first being exhibited at the Commercial Vehicle Show, NEC Birmingham. The newcomer is the latest in a long-line of load-loving, road-loving vans – a niche which Vauxhall successfully carved out for itself in 2001 with the introduction of the original Astravan Sportive. The flagship Astravan Sportive SE comes with 17-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, a full body styling pack, front fog lamps and a rear roof spoiler, making it the ideal choice for small business users who want a van that projects a powerful image of their company, as well as those who love driving. Powered by a 1.9-litre 120PS common-rail diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, the Sportive SE enjoys performance to match that of Vauxhall’s more sporting car models, while the cabin is designed to offer the best in long-distance driver comfort, with sculpted, ergonomically designed sports seats. To complete the performance theme, the Sportive SE rides on lowered sports suspension, designed to deliver optimum stability in all conditions as well as enhance the van’s appearance.

Astravan uses the same basic design as the Astra Estate, but the rear axle has been redesigned to allow the fuel tank to be moved. This allows for extra load space and a completely flat floor without harming the driving dynamics, while the rear torsion beam has been adapted to cater for carrying heavier loads up to a maximum of 650kg. The load area is 1.82m long by 0.9m high. It’s worth remembering this is a van for people that don't really want to drive a van, so you can't really expect more space.

With security in mind, Astravan's hatch-type door can be specified with an optional opaque thick fibreglass panel rather than glazing. Another neat idea is the two concealed under floor compartments designed to accommodate valuable loads. These are at the cab end of the load area and covered by hatches. Vauxhall has also decided to make available a versatile bulkhead with a flap in it just behind the passenger seat. Fold the seat flat and you can push an 8ft long load through the flap. What ever your load, Vauxhall Commercial Vehicles are designed to help you deliver a top quality job you can also rely on Vauxhalls’ Premier Service Centres which are open 70 hours a week.

Octavia vRS Hatch

2008-01-31T12:54:00.000Z

When did you last have that feeling? You know, the buzz you get when you’ve put yourself to the test. When it’s just you, the elements and the challenge ahead. It’s tough to say the least and you’re not sure whether you can do it. But you hang in there, the adrenaline starts to flow and suddenly everything seems to come into focus. Then it occurs to you that moments like this are what living is really all about. These kind of adrenaline trips are behind you, right? After all, now you have responsibilities. You have to take the sensible, pragmatic options in life and the price you pay is to forgo those moments of exhilaration, enjoyment and total freedom. It’s just that you can’t help wishing you could find a way to get the best of both worlds. A way to savour the thrills while knowing that the practicalities have been covered. Well the good news is when it comes to your new car; it really is possible to have it all. Because with the vRs range of cars from Skoda you won’t have to sacrifice performance for practicality and the even better news is you won’t have to re-mortgage your house either.

The Octavia vRS builds on the design strengths of the standard Octavia yet has an unmistakable look thanks to its deep bumpers, distinctive crease lines that rise from the centre of the grille to the base of the windscreen creating a trade mark “v” in the bonnet, painted brake callipers and stunning 17 inch Zenith alloy wheels, the Octavia vRS conveys a real air of sportiness. At the heart of any great sporting car range are great engines, and the Octavia vRS is no exception. The Octavia vRS hatch is powered by a state-of –the-art 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that produces 170bhp. Driving the front wheels via a six-speed gearbox, the vRS sprints to 62mph in just 8.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 140mph.

On the road the power this engine produces is more than sufficient, accelerating from traffic lights; motorway merging and passing slower cars on two-lane roads do not present a problem. The driver has good all-round visibility and the car’s performance inspires confidence thanks to good grip, power that is easy to control, responsive steering and a slick gear change. The vRS model is well equipped with a number of electronically controlled stability features as standard such as EDL (electronic differential lock) and ASR (anti-spin regulation). All-round disc brakes with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), are standard on the vRS model ensuring that it brakes reassuringly well. The vRS is a very compelling buy especially as it is great value for money, but don’t just take our word for it go test drive one today.

Octavia Estate

2008-01-31T12:53:00.000Z

In 1938 Czechoslovakia switched from driving on the right to driving on the left. It was just another bizarre episode in Czechoslovakia's automotive history; a history that saw many noble companies go from riches to rags in the political upheaval that followed the demise of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. The second-world war didn't help; in the space of a decade, Skoda went from building luxury Hispano-Suiza cars under licence and cars of its own design, to becoming an unwilling cog in the Nazi war machine and was re-named Reichwerke-Hermann-Goring. The manufacturing factory at Mlada Boleslav suffered the retribution of allied bombers, and by 1945 was hardly more than a pile of rubble, made worse by the actions of the retreating Germans who destroyed what little remained.

Undaunted, the Czechs set about rebuilding the factory and within months the company could boast of a working production line, off which rolled a range of rugged, no-nonsense cars that eventually included the Octavia and later the Estelle. The rear engine range became the butt of ill-informed humour and was fated never to escape its lowly image. But in1989 in the new free market environment, Skoda Auto, started looking for a strong foreign partner in order to survive in the extremely competitive global market and in December 1990, the German Volkswagen group decided to take over Skoda Auto. The rest is history, and the latest Octavia, which is a long way removed from the basic, 40 bhp model of the 1950's, is a firm tribute to VW's perseverance.

The Octavia Estate 1.8 TSi represents great value for money, offers excellent performance with a 0-62mph time of just 8.2 seconds and generous levels of standard equipment. Plus, the FSI Direct Fuel Injection petrol engine proves that pace need not come at the expense of efficiency. On top of all that, there’s a superb driving experience, plenty of cabin space and impressive build quality. On the move, the car pulls strongly from low revs, and provides ample overtaking punch. With a long sixth gear, refinement and motorway cruising are great. Unlike the sporty vRS, the 1.8 TSi doesn’t get stiff suspension settings, so while it’s still a capable performer; its ride is comfortable and relaxing. The steering remains impressively accurate, and there’s plenty of grip on offer. As ever with the Octavia, passengers get loads of space, and with a boot that measures 560 litres with the seats in place and 1,350 once they’re folded, luggage is equally well catered for. It looks as if Skoda has another guaranteed customer-pleaser on its hands.

Peugeot 4007

2008-01-31T12:51:00.000Z

Peugeot entered into the 4x4 SUV market during the second half of 2007. The name - 4007 - has a double zero identity to show that it represents another new concept in Peugeot’s ever developing model range. The ´4´ represents its size within the Peugeot range and the ´7´ is its generation. The vehicle is the result of collaboration between PSA Peugeot Citroën and the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. With this new offer, Peugeot is following its strategy of extending its commercial range in response to the more diversified requests of its customers. The 4007 brings together strongly all the attributes of the marquee within a growing segment of the market. Stylish yet distinctive, the Peugeot 4007 has been designed at Peugeot’s design centre in Velizy, France. With tapered headlights and open front grille, the recognisable ´feline´ look of the new Peugeot range is still evident here. The chrome structure lends an elegant and authoritative edge. The aerodynamic design of the roof gives an elegant profile which is complimented by a contemporary rear. The 4007’s interior has also benefited from Peugeot’s specialised designers. It is dynamic and functional and offers lots of storage.

Environmentally aware Peugeot has equipped the 4007 with its latest 2.2 litre diesel engine which features its advanced Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS) for the best combination of performance, economy and environmental protection. The 2.2-litre HDi diesel engine features direct common-rail injection and is the result of the partnership with the Ford Motor Group. It develops 156 bhp and is capable of using a 30% mixture of biodiesel without any modifications. Delivering a driving experience that is both dynamic and pleasurable, the engine boasts impressive fuel economy and emissions performance, among the best in the SUV sector. The engine is combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox to make the best use of the high-torque characteristics of the 2.2-litre HDi diesel engine.

The 4007s on-demand 4WD system enables the driver to select three modes of drive, while on the move. First is Permanent 2WD, intended for normal tarmac use, with all power directed to the front wheels. In Automatic 4WD, engine torque is delivered automatically to wheels that require the most traction at any time. Should you find yourself in a sticky situation however, you might need to select Permanent 4WD. This set-up splits torque 50:50 between front and rear wheels. The idea of all this technology is to give the 4007 what Peugeot call the best of both worlds, enabling it to tackle reasonably rough terrain, yet still provide acceptable on-road dynamic behaviour and competitive fuel economy. The 4007 continues Peugeot's reputation for producing engaging cars with dynamic and safe road characteristics

Kia Sportage

2008-01-31T12:46:00.000Z

The Sportage has been an SUV favourite for some time but the latest model adds to the driving fun. With production moved from Korea to Europe, to reduce shipping times and delivery levels of CO2, the Sportage has been given a Euro ‘make-over’ to improve driving dynamics. With the new range expanded to 10 models, with the addition of two wheel drive versions, Kia expects to sell around 6,000 units a year in the UK. The introduction of the front wheel drive only versions is Kia’s answer to customers buying patterns and tastes. The front-wheel-drive model has better fuel economy and CO2 emissions figures than its comparable four-wheel-drive counterpart. A diesel automatic transmission is also being offered for the first time as standard on two-wheel-drive diesel versions of the Sportage.

Kia is not afraid to make change where it is merited. For the 2008 model year, the Sportage gains body-colour bumpers as standard, larger door mirrors to comply with new EU regulations, a revised front grille, black-bezel headlamps and new designs of 16-inch alloy wheels (XE and XS versions). In isolation they may appear to be small changes, but they add an extra veneer of class to a car that continues to appeal because of its genuine 4x4 styling. With a choice of three engines – a 2.7 litre V6, a 2 litre petrol and a 138bhp 2 litre diesel, it’s the last of these that’s likely to be the default choice. The front-wheel-drive-only diesel Sportage is only available with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Ergonomically, the Sportage pays great attention to detail. Major and minor controls are placed exactly where the driver needs them, with the digital clock, CD audio system with MP3 player and air conditioning controls stacked neatly in the centre fascia. The steering column has tilt adjustment and the driver's seat is multi-adjustable, allowing owners of different build to find a perfect driving position. Five adults can travel in reasonable comfort, and Kia also claims to have reduced noise levels with better sunroof seals and clever sculpting of the wing mirrors. The 60/40 folding rear seats are rather cunning. When they’re lowered, the seat squabs slide forward and down into the footwall so the seatbacks can fold flush with the floor. Another nice touch is the separately opening rear window, which allows you to chuck small items into the boot without having to open the tailgate. The current Sportage has regularly been one of the UK's seven best-selling SUVs. With the addition of two-wheel-drive models and the introduction of diesel automatics, Kia is confident of increasing annual sales from an average of 4400 to 6000-plus in 2008.

Made for the road the Renault Magnum

2007-12-19T12:20:00.000Z

The Renault Magnum is a flagship for long distance transport its sturdiness and distinctive design are the exterior indications of its interior quality it is one of the best soundproofed and most comfortable cabs you could sit in. It also offers the driver excellent all-round visibility - large glazed areas; wide rear view mirrors; a commanding position of the road ahead and at night halogen headlamps with complex lenses ensure a high level of lighting.

In the Cab
The Magnum cab remains one of the largest and most spacious in the market. Perhaps that’s what adds to the challenge of entry and exit! Once you are in though, it’s certainly worth the climb. The internal height of 1.87m (over 6ft) and a completely flat floor means you can move around freely standing up and once you park yourself in your air suspended seat, the joys of the new Magnum become apparent. The heated seat, which is adjustable for height, weight and reach, gives you a perfect driving position. The 4-spoke padded steering wheel is fully adjustable for height and rake as well. The control layouts in the new Magnum’s are also simple and easy to use as well. The dashboard display panel conveys comprehensive driving information, fault analysis and maintenance details. If you are off the messy disposition like yours truly, there’s also an endless amount of storage for your bits and bobs. There are two cab variations on offer Privilege and Excellence.

The Power to Deliver
The DXi13 engine in the Magnum optimizes your travelling time even on the most demanding routes and provides new power levels at 460 and 500 hp and offers up to 5% reduction on fuel consumption. We tested the beefier 500 hp, which notches up an impressive 2250Nm of torque between 1050 and 1400 rpm. Models that are fitted with Renaults’ Optidriver+ automatic gearbox, which ours was, also gain from an extra 22Nm of torque on hills at 1050 – 1000 rpm. Optidriver+ also comes with Optibrake, which gives you an additional three levels of retardation. It is engaged by leveraging a three-pronged stalk, positioned conveniently at the side of the steering wheel. If this still isn’t turing you on, and you don’t want to fork out for the Optidriver, you’ll be grappling with ZF’s 16-speed manual box. An important thought to consider though is that the manual transmission is 60kg heavier than the Optidriver+ so you’ll be losing some payload. The Magnum uses all-round disc brakes with Electronic Braking System (EBS) management. The new generation EBS offers drivers a whole new range of features, including engine-brake management, brake defects warning, brake temperature warning and hill-start assistance.

On the road
Taking in our traditional route of motorway and country roads we left the services on the M74 and headed south, the gorgeous weather made perfect driving conditions with the added bonus of light traffic throughout the route made it a perfect journey. The Optidriver+ gets a big thumbs-up for both practicality and performance. To engage it, you simply nudge the gear lever down and then left. To drive in manual, you simply nudge left again. As you do though, we left the heavy work and thinking to the technology. Gear-shifts, at all times were precise and well-timed. As for the engine, the 500hp on offer matched all challenges head on. Torques the buzz word these days and the DXi 13 gives you plenty of lift when you need it. The Magnum’s road handling is also impressive and there’s virtually no cab roll to speak off. The new suspension has also given the Magnum a much-improved ride and a day behind the wheel certainly isn’t tiresome. Wind noise and engine noise is barely noticeable, so we doubt you’ll find much to complain about in the cab.

The Verdict
Renault Trucks seems to have made changes in all the right places. There’s plenty of torque in the engine and fully laden at 40 tonnes you’ll rarely notice it on your journey. We also think you’ll love the much improved road handling and suspension. We think the Magnum is as good as anything on the market and most importantly you’ll have happy drivers.

Skoda Roomster

2007-12-19T12:18:00.000Z

The Skoda Roomster is a modern expansion of the model range offered by Skoda. In the recent past, the brand has become known for cars of a more classical design, which, in addition to the high level of technology, exceptional reliability and quality, also exhibit excellent value for money. The Roomster follows the lines of a compact MPV but differs from its competitors in this segment thanks to its unconventional design.
The engine line up starts with a 1.2-litre 70 bhp petrol engine. Further up the performance range sits a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 85 bhp. The most powerful petrol engine available is a 1.6 litre petrol unit with 105 bhp
There is a choice of 70bhp or 80bhp three-cylinder 1.4 TDI engines or a 105bhp 1.9 TDI. All engines comes with a five-speed manual transmission as standard, while a six-speed Tiptronic automatic - available on the 1.6-litre - is a smooth choice for buyers looking for an auto. Compact dimensions combined with wheels pushed out to the corners of the car help the Roomster feel nimble. It's easy to drive and copes well on motorways and A roads, benefiting from predictable handling and a compliant ride. Even in those busy congested city centres. The Roomster is a breeze to manoeuvre, thanks to light steering and tight turning circle.

To maximise the available interior space, the design team at Skoda created two different areas within the cabin. The front zone is designed to cater for the needs of the driver - a "driving room" with a clear cockpit design. The dashboard is clearly laid-out, with ergonomically designed instruments and operating controls as well as comfortable seats, which can be adjusted exactly to suit the driver. The rear of the Roomster is designed as a comfortable and flexible "living room". Large side windows, seating, which is 46 millimetres higher than those in the front, and the innovative ‘VarioFlex’ seating system combine to make it possible to configure the rear at will. The raised position of the rear seats offers passengers the best possible view to the front and to the traffic. The flexibility of the Roomster’s interior is hard to find elsewhere. Boot capacity ranges from 450 to 1780 litres and a payload of up to 515 kilograms. There is countless storage options which will keep every passenger happy. As with the rest of the Skoda range the Roomster offers great value for money.

Nissan Qashqai

2007-12-19T12:17:00.000Z

The QASHQAI (pronounced Cash Kai), is named after a desert dwelling tribe who live near the Zagros Mountains in South Western Iran. It’s a curious thing, but unless you’ve seen a QASHQAI on the road, it is very difficult to gauge its size from photographs. That can only mean that the designers have fulfilled their brief, which was to create a crossover vehicle that has all the benefits of an SUV, such as a high driving position, and the looks, comfort and feel of a hatchback, while not taking up too much road space. In fact the QASHQAI has a similar footprint as the Ford Focus which is a fair indication of its size.
Engine entry level starts with a 1.6 115PS model which gives you 2-wheel drive and a 5-speed manual transmission. The 2.0 140PS engine offers a 6-speed gearbox or easy-going CVT, in both 2- or 4-wheel drive. There are also highly efficient diesel engines starting with a 1.5 dCi 106PS engine offering 2-wheel drive with a 6-speed gearbox, along with low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Feeling more adventurous? The state of the art 2.0 dCi 150 PS model is also available in 4-wheel drive, with auto or manual transmission.

The driver gets a height-adjustable seat and a steering wheel that adjusts for height and reach, giving fine levels of comfort. The seats give excellent support, too. The controls are logically placed and the high seating position offers a commanding view. Air conditioning is standard across the Qashqai range (Acenta and Tekna models come with dual-zone electronic climate control), and all have electric windows and electrically adjustable door mirrors. The cabin is airy and roomy, and a panoramic glass roof is optional on Acenta models and standard on Tekna. The boot is big for the class, and it's well shaped, too.

Nissan has spent a great deal of effort in ensuring the Qashqai drives like a conventional car. Although it has been designed in the mould of a 4x4, it has exceptional body control and easily copes with a series of tight bends, retaining its composure when changing direction and providing good feedback from the steering. While the steering is light at parking speeds, there is much more weight and feel as the car speeds up. The suspension soaks up the vast majority of bumps on the road from low-speed traffic-calming humps to sudden pot holes on A-roads. The Qashqai is excellent value for money taking account of the equipment fitted as standard.

Peugeot 1007

2007-12-19T12:16:00.001Z

The Peugeot 1007 has attracted plenty of attention. The car offers some unique and attractive features. The 1007 will definitely be able to compete within its sector. One of the most intriguing features is its sliding electric side doors. You can even drive with them open, which might be illegal, but was the way newspapers used to get delivered to news stands. But that’s not the point of the 1007. It’s to offer something new that people will see in action and smile at, and then want one. Despite the fact that the 1007 is only a four-seater the car offers many MPV-style benefits.

Currently the Peugeot 1007 is available with a choice of three petrol engines and one diesel. The petrol line up comprises of a 1.4 litre 8v, 1.4 litre 16v and a 1.6 litre 16v, the diesel is a 1.4 HDi. The 1.6 petrol is only available with a 2-Tronic electronically controlled manual gearbox, with has both manual and automatic driving modes. The 1.4 litre 8v can also be specified with the 2-Tronic gearbox otherwise it is a 5-speed manual.

The cars interior is customizable to suit individual tastes, and the car enjoys a generous standard level of specification. The 1007 has a higher initial purchase price than most of its competitors, but also comes with a higher level of standard specification than most of its rivals. All round visibility is pretty good, the steering wheel can be adjusted for rake and reach and the driver’s seat is height adjustable which makes it easy to get into a comfortable driving position. The controls and dials aren’t fancy or complicated, but they are functional and they all do what you would expect them to. The displays are large and easy to read, and the car comes with the ability to customize cabin colours for a touch of fun.

You are not going to fit a lot in the boot; but there is a hard load cover to protect your luggage from prying eyes. The two rear seats will fold forward to provide a useful load area of 628 litres to the parcel shelf height, a gain of just over 300 litres from keeping the seats/parcel shelf in place. The passenger seat can be folded flat to act as table, perfect for your laptop or lunch. There are also a number of useful storage cubby holes throughout the car. The Peugeot 1007 is a very easy car to live with and to drive. If you have any reservations then take one for a test drive we think you will be impressed

Peugeot 207 Van

2007-12-19T12:10:00.000Z

With over 60,000 207s already on UK roads and the 207 being the best selling car in Europe, the 207 Van now joins this success story. The Peugeot 207 van replaced Peugeot’s successful 206 van and builds further on the stylish looks and great driving dynamics of its predecessor. Based on the 207 three door hatchback model, the 207 Van shares the same overall length of 4.03 m, width of 1.92 m, wheel base of 2.54 m and overall height of 1.47 m. This provides a maximum load area of 1.1 m3 and a payload of 450 kg. With its’ sporty lines and its obvious attention to detail make the exterior very eye catching, but when you step inside its clear that this is a small van that’s big on luxury.

Available with two HDi diesels: a 1.4-litre 70bhp and 1.6-litre 90bhp; and a 1.4-litre 75bhp petrol engine. All the engines are fitted with a manual five speed gearbox with ratio selected to match the individual engine characteristics. The 207 Van benefits from all the structural safety features of the hatchback, standard equipment includes: power steering, driver airbag, passenger airbag, side airbags, remote control central locking with deadlocks, electric front windows – “one touch” for driver, steering column adjustable for reach and rake, radio / single CD player, passenger seat height adjustment, driver seat height adjustment, body-coloured door mirrors, ABS with EBFD and EBA. Also fitted are Ultrasonic sensors located in the lower rear panels which let you know the instant you’re in danger of bumping into an obstacle, even if you can’t see it. The audio alarm gives off a series of acoustic beeps – the frequency increases as you get nearer to the obstacle.

Get behind the wheel and you’ll know it means business. On the road gear changing is smooth with excellent traction offering all the performance you or your drivers could need, means it not only delivers the goods on longer journeys, but it’s also exceptionally manoeuvrable around town. With its car like comfort and equipment levels it provides an ideal vehicle for city centre deliveries and companies who need to transport small loads such as mail or documents etc…
The 207 Van is a highly efficient worker. Low fuel consumption, reasonable insurance premiums and sensible service bills will help keep your running costs down while the intelligent application of design means that any unexpected repairs may also cost less than you might think. The 207 Van respects the environment as much as it does your bottom line.

Saab 9-5 Bio Power Estate

2007-11-15T11:51:00.000Z

Alternative fuels and green technology are big news these days – barely a week passes without the introduction of yet another new eco-friendly solution that’s promising to save the world, bioethanol is just one of the latest options.
Saab’s 9-5 was among one of the first cars to use it. Reassuringly, the clever Bio-Power range allows the model’s 2.0-litre engine to also run on unleaded, which means if you can’t find a garage selling the alternative fuel, you can simply fill up with petrol and continue your journey. The nifty engine management will sort out the rest, optimising performance from the resulting mixture, sounds good so far, but there is a slight problem. Only a small number of outlets currently sell bioethanol in the UK – and the few that do are usually found in major cities or near by suburbs.

As its name suggests, the Saab 9-5 Bio-Power not only offers purer power, but more of it. Because Saab's turbocharging technology and engine management systems make it possible to take advantage of bioethanol's higher octane rating, an impressive 20 per cent gain in brake horse power (bhp) and 16 per cent growth in torque can be enjoyed when the car runs on E85 compared to when running on regular petrol. As a result, when running on E85, the Saab 9-5 2.0t Bio-Power engine delivers 180 bhp and 280 Nm of torque, compared to 150 bhp and 240 Nm when using regular petrol, which gives significant increase in power and performance.

The cabin of the Saab 9-5 is very driver-oriented. The centre console curves around the driver putting all the controls within easy reach, the layout is simple but logical. Seat comfort and support are excellent, with well shaped chairs that move to suit all shapes and sizes. There’s plenty of room in the back for three adults. Boot space is excellent and for carrying those longer loads back from the DIY store the rear seats also split and fold flat. Standard features for all variants include; dual-zone air conditioning, electrically-operated and heated door mirrors, the Saab information display in the instrument binnacle, heat absorbent glass and a rake- and reach-adjustable steering wheel. Standard safety systems are listed as ESP, ABS with EBD, TCS- traction control, four airbags for the front occupants who also benefit from Saab Active Head Restraints or SAHR and all the seats have an anti-submarining function. In buying the Saab 9-5 BioPower Estate, you get the flexibility of fuel choice and doing your bit for the environment.

Kia Sedona

2007-11-15T11:49:00.001Z

Kia’s latest Sedona is completely new and offers increased sophistication and comfort while giving buyers strong value for money. Already well respected in the MPV sector, Kia is pushing to broaden its market even further with this Sedona. The Sedona has been vastly improved in all areas and modernized so that it can compete with rival brands. The Sedona seats seven people comfortably. The exterior style has been improved and boasts sharper lines and has an overall more attractive exterior design. The car’s twin sliding doors have been well designed to compliment the shape of the vehicle.

The Kia Sedona offers several improved engines choices, there is a 2.9-litre 182bhp diesel engine now with second-generation common-rail injection and a variable geometry turbocharger which enhances performance while preserving the 36.2mpg combined economy of its predecessor. The 2.7-litre 186bhp V6 petrol engine has gained 40bhp over the previous 2.5-litre engine. Its combined fuel consumption is 26.4mpg compared with 25.7 previously, despite considerably improved performance. The first thing that you will notice when driving the Sedona is its high driving position which gives you a commanding view of the road ahead. The ride is very relaxed and copes well on all road surfaces; the 2.9-litre diesel engine delivers impressive acceleration and comfortable cruising. The Sedona has truly been enhanced from the inside out.

The Sedona has been designed for passenger comfort, inside the cabin it’s very spacious and provides adequate passenger space for seven. Access to the Sedona is excellent for all passengers’ front, rear, or for passengers accessing the very back seats. Front seat occupants can slide easily in through the vehicle’s front doors, while those in the second row step in through the wide opening sliding doors. Rear seat occupants must first fold the second row seat to gain access, but this is simple and not problematic. Head and legroom are very good and each seat has the ability to slide forward or back and the ability to recline maximizing individual comfort even more. The five rear seats can be folded down or removed in order to increase cargo carrying capacity. Air conditioning controls in the rear ensure good all around comfort. The Kia Sedona has a good image based on the company’s dedication to providing car buyers excellent value for money, with quality and style becoming much more apparent.

Her name is RIO

2007-11-15T11:47:00.000Z

Value-hunting motorists need look no further than the stylish Kia Rio that blends an economical super-mini with pace, space and up-to-the minute design and technology. The Kia Rio is much better than its predecessors and is now worthy of some serious thought. It is an accomplished five-door hatchback capable of competing with both small and medium-sized models. Everything about this car has been redesigned. The styling, for example, should go down well, featuring as it does a bolder nose and a more dynamic profile. The enhancements are not limited to the cars outside design the inside has been redesigned as well.

The all-new 96bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine which made its debut with Rio, generating 17.5% more power than the class average, while the modern Euro IV compliant 109bhp 1.5-litre CRDi turbo diesel delivers 36% more power than most diesels in this segment. Yet despite the improved performance, fuel economy is also better. In manual-gearbox form, the 1.4-litre Rio covers 44.8 miles per gallon on the official combined cycle (39.2mpg for the automatic) and the 1.5 CRDi covers 60.1mpg which means that with a 45-litre fuel tank it has a potential range of just under a whopping 600 miles. Both engines come with a five-speed manual transmission as standard but a four-speed automatic specifically developed and tuned for the Rio is offered with the petrol engine.

The Kia Rio is among one of the largest vehicles in its class. Accessibility to the cars front and rear seats is good. The door apertures are not huge, but they are more than adequate and accessibility to the car’s cabin is straightforward. Front and rear passengers should have adequate head and legroom. The trim is neutral, though owners can opt for several different upgrades. The steering adjusts for rake but not reach. The cars fascia is logically arranged and neatly organized and the controls and dials are fairly simple and easy to use.

The Rio is not a sporty car but it delivers a smooth ride with low levels of noise and vibration, and with its excellent power steering is simple to park. Even though the Rio wasn’t built for speed it does deliver a decent ride with adequate power at an affordable price. By the end of my drive I was quite taken by this little car. The engine is superb and certainly up there with the class leading diesels in its sector. Kia now has a good range of cars that can compete on equal terms with the established players.

New Transit SportVan

2007-11-15T11:37:00.000Z

In the new Transit SportVan, Ford adds a dash of style and 'sportiness' to the van segment. The Ford Transit SportVan is available as front-wheel-drive and short wheelbase body style and is powered by the 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine delivering the enhanced 140 PS power and 350 Nm of torque. The new six-speed transmission is paired with this engine.

The large body of the Ford Transit provides ideal scope for bold design statements and styling features. Immediately obvious is the supplier-branded styling kit, 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 tyres, a body coloured front lower spoiler with a bright centre section, body coloured side skirts with bright inserts and rear lower skirts all make for a dynamic and unique appearance. The Transit SportVan is available in Performance Blue metallic paint and two further metallic colours. The front bumper and grille is body coloured and the twin exhaust tailpipe and optional Ford GT-style white bonnet stripes clearly show that the Transit SportVan means business.

"Customers increasingly want to personalise their vehicles and drive a van that's different and stylish," said Phil Collareno. "As well as being used in a professional capacity, many owner-operators also use their vans for private purposes. With the Transit SportVan we offer a vehicle that really stands out from the crowd."

Inside, the Transit SportVan takes cabin comfort to the maximum. Standard cabin equipment for optimum driver and passenger comfort includes air-conditioning, Ford's 6006 audio system operated via stalk control with front loading in-dash six CD player, power windows and electrically adjustable, heated door mirrors. Further driver assistance and passenger safety features include a high series cluster with trip computer, cruise control and passenger airbag. Interior styling has added finesse by the use of leather steering wheel with alloy spokes and leather gear shifter knob. A high specification visibility pack incorporates auto headlights, auto wipers, Ford's unique 'Quickclear' heated front screen, tinted glass and integrated front fog lamps to ensure that the driver has the best visibility in all weather conditions. Transit SportVan is available with a host of regular attractive Transit options for further personalisation. These include satellite navigation, Bluetooth® connectivity, Thatcham CAT 1 alarm system and fully trimmed leather seats.

"With the addition of the 140 PS six-speed transmission and the Transit SportVan to an already comprehensive range there are now more versions of the Transit available than any other commercial vehicle in the segment. Ford of Europe's commercial vehicle sector is on track for a record year with Transit experiencing a 14 per cent sales increase year-to-date compared to last year." said Henrik Nenzen.

Ford extend their successful Transit range

2007-11-15T11:26:00.000Z

Ford Transit retains its leading status within the commercial vehicle sector with its modern exterior design and interior features. A raft of new developments in the Ford Transit range has been created to help operators manage the changing needs of transportation in Britain. Steve Kimber, director, commercial vehicles, Ford of Britain, said: "The commercial vehicle market continues to evolve, and it's important we continue to develop our product range to meet customers' changing needs.

All-new engine for the Transit
For customers seeking extra power, increased payload and driving comfort, Ford Transit is now available with an all-new five-cylinder in-line Duratorq TDCi common rail diesel engine. This 3.2-litre power plant develops a maximum of 200 PS. Consistent with other engines in the Transit portfolio it meets European Stage IV Emissions standards. Exclusively developed for rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Transits and available for the wheelbase and payload derivatives it will benefit most – the 350+ series mid wheelbase (MWB), long wheelbase (LWB) and extended wheelbase. Scheduled service intervals of 30,000m or two years, whichever comes first, make Transit an attractive proposition to fleet managers and owner operators.

"Many of our customers told us they needed a more powerful engine for their long-haul deliveries, and our new 200 PS Duratorq TDCi engine is bound to impress both in terms of performance and fuel efficiency," said Henrik Nenzen, Director Commercial Vehicles, Marketing Sales & Service, Ford of Europe. The 200 PS engine, with its excellent torque of 470Nm gives great performance, irrespective of the load or road gradients. It contributes to less 'driver fatigue' by reducing the frequency of gear changes as it can be driven in a higher gear for longer. The new engine has been mated with an upgraded Durashift 6-speed manual transmission. Featuring a new dual mass flywheel and clutch assembly for the higher torque of the new engine, the durability requirements of the new gearbox have been engineered specifically to meet the needs of the commercial vehicle segment. To enable the longest possible range between refuelling, Ford is introducing the option of a fuel tank with increased capacity of 103 litres on Transit.

Higher payload for Transit
Ford is further expanding its already comprehensive Transit range by adding 460 (4.6 tonne) GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) and 350HD (3.5 tonne) GVM (Heavy Duty) model derivatives to the line-up, enhancing its tough, dependable image. Both the 460 GVM and 350HD models bring greater towing capacity to the Transit and are available across a range of wheelbases in van and chassis cab body styles with dual rear wheels. The upgraded standard front and rear axles on the 460 and 350HD models provide customers with more flexibility for weight distribution when loading the vehicle. To control the extra payload, these new Transit versions come with larger rear brake callipers, a heavy-duty handbrake, up rated rear springs and revised front and rear damper settings and a new front damper for the chassis cab.

Driver assistance technology
ESP is now standard on all derivatives, except all-wheel-drive and petrol models. The ESP system detects when the vehicle is deviating from the driver's chosen course and automatically applies the correct amount of braking pressure and engine power to bring the vehicle back into line. Vehicles equipped with ESP will now also have Ford's new Hill Launch Assist (HLA) feature. This technology uses the braking system to hold the vehicle on a gradient and prevent it from rolling. HLA maintains pressure to the braking system and provides a two and a half second delay when the driver moves their foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal. The HLA feature avoids the need to go through an awkward sequence of events involving the handbrake to hold the vehicle momentarily whilst on a hill. Once sufficient engine torque is reached, the HLA automatically releases the brake system in a controlled manner.

Axor Powershift

2007-10-15T12:44:00.000Z

The Mercedes Benz Axor proved something of a revelation when it landed in 2001 as a standard manual fleet solution for volume-truck operators. Its secret was its simplicity. Powerful torque based 12-litre driveline with an eight-speed slap-over transmission that any agency driver could cope with. Since then fleet operators and its transport managers have raised standards and seen semi-automation as the way forward. It reduces driver interference even further, they argue. That Powershift is already available in Actros is an anomaly. Manufacturer always introduce automated systems into long distance trucks that spend hours doing the same national speed without changing gears while fleet trucks, that are more active with transmissions, get the leftovers. For those who have driven the Actros with Powershift and Telligent transmission should recognise the controller. It is a fore-and-aft joystick mounted on the arm rest. You press the safety button, nudge forward and you’re away from second gear. From here it chooses the next gear depending on how much oomph you give the accelerator. If you want more action, or feel you don’t want to be replaced by a machine, you can mess around with the Auto/Manual button and do the work yourself. A toggle gives you split gears [single ratios] for any fine tuning the on-board computer ignores. It is worth noting that nudging the stick in Auto overrides the computer to change down enhancing engine braking with greater revs.

After all that pressing the accelerator pedal restores Auto mode. Other transmission tricks include a manoeuvring mode where engine speed is reduced to 1,000rpm, it allows direct first to reverse movement without using the handbrake and a hill hold for seven seconds. At the moment the system is only designed for 4x2 configurations, 6x2 gets it next year, and it costs £1,500. To employ the system and make it pay you have to look at the cost of a traditional transmission and clutch set with its shelf life before moving to Powershift. Its life span on your operation is always more relevant than any manufacturers suggestion. If your driver makes a lot of spot/start trips Powershift is worth considering as it will take the pain out of driving in heavy-traffic and urban areas with its network of roundabouts, traffic lights and pedestrian crossings. The practical side of Powershift shows how it might benefit a fleet with many drivers swapping around. It allows your driver to concentrate on unfamiliar terrains and even less unfamiliar driving standards without missing a cog. Those two achievements should prolong clutch life if nothing else.

Axor doesn’t get the performance mode fitted to the Actros, a pedal kick-down that gives you an extra 200rpm, so hill climbing in less powerful trucks will take that extra second or two, and the adjustable downhill cruise control Ecoroll is also missing. Those two thing aside it delivers a calming effect on driving when it comes to dealing with fellow road users. There is a slight delay in changing gears but that doesn’t hamper the experience. Perhaps half way up Shap it might lead to choosing a gear too late but you can go manual to compensate. On A-roads at 40mph manual will keep you in top on flat sections but undulating sections might warrant Auto to make sure momentum is maintained. And its that final phrase which stands out. Maintaining momentum these days is what all the manufacturers promise. In Actros Powershift is an important tool in matching flagship motors with its direct competitors. In the volume truck market Powershift is there is make life easier for the overlooked driver working for own-account business operators looking to minimise risk. Powershift is a welcome addition to the ranks.

Renault Premium 450.25

2007-10-15T12:42:00.000Z

After what has seemed to be a continuous stream of engine changes, Renault Trucks look to have finally reached the ‘promised land’ with their latest batch of Premiums. Brian Regan reveals all on the monster that is the 450.25 6x2. The Renault Premium has retained a strong following through trucking circles. As such, it’s probably no surprise to you that we jumped at the chance to see exactly why, especially when the model we’d be seeing was the ‘jewel in crown’, the 6x2 450.25.

Engine
The 6-cylinder, 24-value DXi11 engine has already created quite a reputation for itself. Not least due to the max power output of 450 hp at 1900 rpm on offer. Maximum torque, at 2140 Nm at 1100 to 1300 rpm, is similarly impressive. The engine also comes fully equipped with electronic idling control, antifreeze protection: - 25 degrees, excellent sound insulation and electronically controlled air braking system. The engine is married to the latest generation Optidrive+ robotized gearbox.

In the Cab
The Premium has for long carried an enviable reputation for in-cab quality and comfort and we’re happy to report that the latest version is no different. The 2.2m Privilege trim sleeper cab that we sampled is pure luxury. With its raised roof, cab soundproofing, air suspended seat, lumbar adjustment, heated cushion, cushion depth adjustment and incorporated headrest it’s a challenge not to get comfortable behind the wheel.
With driver fatigue becoming an increasingly topical subject, Renault’s use of anti-fatigue lighting for night driving and directional sport lamps, deserves much credit.

In terms of the buck, it’s also difficult to find much to complain about. At 2022 x 780 it’s more than adequate for a decent nights sleep and we’re sure you’ll enjoy the infrared remote that controls the CD player. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s also an independent cab heater, air-con, CD/Radio fingertip control on the steering column and curtains to separate the driving position from the rest position. For storing all your odds and ends, there’s plenty of room for even the most cluttered, with bins in the door and under the bunk being especially handy.

The Premium has turned many a head in the trucking fraternity and judging by our drive, the latest will be equally as attractive. The all-steel cab with an iron-zinc coated and cataphoretic paint treatment is impressive, as is the honeycomb radiator grille and front lighting. We’re also pleased to report that visibility is good, both in front and below the cab. Deep mirrors also give a sound view stretching along the cab too.

Instrument Panel
Renault has done a fine job in matching everything you need with simplicity. The wrap-round dash has a wide storage space in the central console and the digital display with speedo, radio information display, clock, outside temperature display, driving information display, driver warning messages and contains & displays everything you need. With economic operating zone, fuel, air pressure, engine water temperature gauges, the central rev counter is also mine of information.

Drive
With leaf springs at the front, and air-suspension at the rear, the drive is smooth and precise. The telescopic shock absorbers also reduce the curse of the modern drive; choppiness. Even after a day in the cab, we felt pretty fresh and energized jumping out at the end of the day.

Fuel Tank
The main aluminum tank serves up a capacity of 520 litre (437 kg of diesel). There is also a 60 litre plastic AdBlue tank.

Conclusions
Like many other judges, the Premium has passed our test with flying colours. Its engine is superb and a match for anything on the market. Throw in its market leading cab comfort and drivability and it’s hard to look past it for a flagship truck.

Peugeot 607

2007-10-15T12:41:00.001Z

If you need a car to keep you in comfort whilst you eat up the motorway miles you could do a lot worse than taking a look at the Peugeot 607. Since launch, the Peugeot 607 has offered owners one of the most comprehensive standard specifications available on an executive vehicle, value for money has always been a strength of the 607. With its sophisticated appearance the 607 sports body coloured bumper strips as well as side cappings with a chrome plated edge trim. At the front of the car there's a profiled air intake residing under the bumper and chrome finished fog lights are integrated into the front spoiler.

The 607 comes with a choice of three engine options a 2.0 litre HDi (136bhp) and a 2.2 litre HDi (170bhp) diesel with a six speed manual transmission or a 3.0 litre V6 petrol unit that is transmitted through a six speed automatic box, one trim level the “Executive” is applied across all engine options. The 607 has been designed to give you confidence from the second you
pull away. Start to put it through its paces, take it through a few twisting bends, and you’ll really start to appreciate its exemplary road-holding. The 607 offers a refined drive with muted engine noise and low levels of tyre and wind noise.

The interior can be rated highly for design and the comprehensive levels of specification. Large and comfortable front seats along with steering adjustable for reach and height ensure most people will find their ideal driving position quite easily.
At first glance the consol looks very complicated and busy with loads of buttons and controls to operate the climate control, sound system, navigation system and so on. However live with the car for just a few hours and it soon becomes familiar.

Standard specification on all 607 models is very good with metallic paint, leather upholstery front and rear heated seats, electrically adjustable front seats and folding rear seats, laminated side glass, JBL Hi Fi system including CD auto-changer, colour satellite navigation, in-built "hands free" GSM telephone, front and rear parking sensors, electronic stability control (ESP) + traction control (ASR) + cornering stability control (CSC), cruise control, 8 airbags, bi-zone climate control, xenon headlamps, automatic windscreen wipers and headlamps, motorised boot actuation, tyre pressure sensors, athermic windscreen and an ultrasonic alarm with deadlocking and remote central locking all fitted without you having to pay any extra.
The Peugeot 607 was made to be driven.

Peugeot 307 SW

2007-08-29T08:37:00.000Z

Launched in 2001 the Peugeot 307 had the difficult task of replacing the best selling Peugeot of all time the 306. More than 2.7 million Peugeot 306’s were produced and 420,000 of them were sold here in the UK. We tested the 307 SW to find out if it really is 'the drive of your life'. The 307 SW is Peugeot's answer to the mid sized MPV market and is available in a choice of either five or seven seat variants. With its curvaceous exterior lines, wrap around headlights, large swooping windscreen and high roofline the designers of the Peugeot 307 have created a bold and stylish car.

The 307 is available with the choice of two trim levels S or SE and a choice of powerplants to suit all tastes, a 1.6 litre (110bhp) petrol engine connected to a 5 speed manual gearbox or a 4 speed automatic, and three ultra-clean HDi diesel units, two 1.6 litre engines offering (90bhp) or (110bhp) connected to a 5 speed box and a powerful 2.0 litre (136bhp) engine connected to a six speed box, enabling the 307 SE HDi 136 to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 10.8 seconds and continue to a top speed of 122 mph where the law permits.

The 307 is excellent to drive around town and it is equally at home on the motorway and dual carriageway .For a car of its size, it has a surprisingly low centre of gravity giving you exceptional road holding, parking is easy and visibility is excellent all round with large windows offering superb forward and side vision as well as a large panoramic glass roof making the inside of the car feel very spacious and light. There is plenty of space and good headroom for the driver, because of the MPV-like proportion. Driving position is highly adjustable and comfortable. The seats are firm, supportive and good for long-distance trips. The dashboard is ergonomically laid out, simple and uncluttered. All the controls are tactile and stylish with everything to hand.

The Peugeot 307's wide tailgate opening has a low sill facilitating easy loading of bulky items. The boot is large and almost square offering 341 litres of load space with five passengers onboard. The rear seats fold with a 60:40 rear split and when folded the boot can accommodate 790 litres. A rigid load cover is standard as is a boot net with 6 load securing rings. So does the Peugeot 307 offer the “drive of your life” well we think but the final decision is yours.

Skoda Octavia vRS

2007-08-29T08:35:00.000Z

The Octavia vRS range continues a sporting tradition that dates back over 100 years. Skoda has a rich motoring history and has been competing successfully with its production cars since the mid 1930s. At the heart of any great sporting car range are great engines, and the Octavia vRS is no exception. The vRS is the fastest Skoda ever built. It is powered by a state-of –the-art 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that produces 197bhp. Driving the front wheels via a six-speed gearbox, the vRS sprints to 62mph in just 7.3sec and on to a top speed of 149mph. On the road the power this engine produces is more than sufficient, accelerating from traffic lights; motorway merging and passing slower cars on two-lane roads do not present a problem.

The Octavia vRS builds on the design strengths of the standard Octavia yet has an unmistakable visual link to the previous generation model and the Fabia vRS. Thanks to deeper bumpers, distinctive crease lines that rise from the centre of the grille to the base of the windscreen creating a trade mark “v” in the bonnet, painted brake callipers and stunning 17 inch Zenith alloy wheels, the Octavia vRS conveys a real air of sportiness.

The Octavia’s interior design is focussed on driver involvement and enjoyment. The driver has good all-round visibility and the car’s performance inspires confidence thanks to good grip, power that is easy to control, responsive steering and a slick gear change. Masses of adjustment in the steering wheel and driver’s seat allows for a superb driving position for all shapes and sizes. The dash is logically laid out and exudes quality. Both the hatch and the estate versions are smartly trimmed with a three-spoke leather steering wheel and supportive two-tone black and silver sports seats. Both the estate and saloon come with remote central locking, electric front windows, electric mirrors, climate control, six-disc auto-changer, 17-inch alloy wheels, tyre-pressure monitor and driver and passenger front and side airbags fitted as standard.

Where the Octavia vRS really stands out from the crowd is in terms of interior practicality. Both the hatchback and estate have enormous boots, plus an abundance of minor storage areas. The rear seats split and fold to increase carrying capacity offering up to 1,620 litres when the rear seats are folded down flat. In summary the vRS is a very compelling buy especially as it is great value for money but don’t just take our word for it go test drive one today.

Ford Focus

2007-08-29T08:32:00.000Z

Although the Ford Focus had been with us since October 1998 and has established itself as a recurring fixture at the top of the UK sales charts, the Ford Focus has never rested on its laurels. Focus continues to grow in size and inside it almost feels like it's a size up. There is easily room enough for five adults with good head and leg room even in the rear. It is generally a refined environment in which to travel with limited engine and road noise. The driving position offers plenty of adjustment. Variable assistance power steering makes for easy parking and plenty of feedback on the move.

The Focus pioneers Ford’s 115 PS, 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT engine with twin independent variable camshaft technology as part of a comprehensive powertrain line-up. The broad petrol engine range also includes 16-valve engines in displacements of 1.4 litres (80 PS), 1.6 litres (100 PS) and 2.0 litres (145 PS). Focus also offers advanced, Duratorq TDCi high-pressure common-rail diesel engines, the range features 1.6-litre (109 PS) and 2.0-litre (136 PS). These lightweight, low-friction engines offer an optimal balance between strong torque at low engine speeds for smooth responsive driving fun and low fuel consumption – the 2.0-litre unit benefiting from Ford’s six-speed manual transmission.
The solid and reassuring nature of its driving environment clearly signals the driving quality of the Focus. It invites drivers to make themselves at home, from the high quality instrument panel to the centre console, which is very much the hub of the interior design. The interior creates a ‘cockpit feel’, the sense that the car is wrapped around its occupants and that everything they want is where they would want to find it. In the cabin there is numerous little storage areas front and rear including a front armrest with storage compartment. Rear seats offer the usual 60:40 split folding capability. Trim levels starting from the most basic are Studio, LX, Zetec, Ghia and Titanium. All models get front electric windows and mirrors. The options list is extensive and features satellite navigation, rear-mounted DVD player, electrically-adjustable front seats, rear sun-blinds and leather upholstery.

One of the Focus's greatest strengths is its handling. Even models with modest powerplants offer an enjoyable driving experience thanks to responsive steering and nimble yet surefooted behaviour through bends. Ride quality also benefits from the sophisticated suspension and occupants will be quite happy as long as the driver isn't enjoying the handling benefits too much.

Mitsubishi Outlander

2007-08-29T08:31:00.000Z

The new Mitsubishi Outlander is very sleek and has an elegant look and feel to it and has attracted quite a bit of attention during the my test week, from people wanting to give it the ‘once-over’. Friends and neighbours have come over had a look round the outside were impressed by the size, space and quality of the car, and went away in search of a Mitsubishi dealership. It looks big, hefty and capable of dealing with everyday life and the great outdoors, but actually casts a footprint smaller than most family-sized 5-seat cars.

The Outlander’s dynamic qualities are reinforced by its sleek profile and clean styling cues - the front end features a rounded, curved bonnet swooping down to a large bumper with integrated grille and protective panel. Moving around the rest of the vehicle you notice the distinctively slash-back rear quarter window, the boldly flared wheel arches and the technical LED wrap-around tail lights further adding to the Outlander’s overall distinctive appearance.
Outlander is powered by a Volkswagen-sourced 1968cc intercooled turbo diesel four-cylinder engine. Featuring an advanced pump-jet injection system and a variable geometry turbo charger, it produces 138bhp at 4000rpm and enough power to accelerate the Outlander to 62mph in 10.8seconds and onto a maximum speed of 116mph. Mounted prominently on the centre console is the rally-derived AWC, or All Wheel Control. By turning the rotary switch, the driver can select from three settings; 2WD where only the front wheels are driven for normal road use, 4WD Auto, which activates when the going gets tough and finally, 4WD Lock (50:50 torque split) for when the tough get going.

In the front, the seats are heavily contoured and therefore, supportive, there’s height-adjustment for the driver but not the front passenger and in the top of the range Elegance, the seats are leather-clad, heated and powered. All Outlander models are fitted as standard with fully automatic climate control complete with an effective filter to remove pollen, dust and other impurities. From a driver’s point of view, it is all very easy to use and the rake- and reach-adjustable, means that it is also easy to find a comfortable driving position. The Outlander feels taut and I liked the positive feel of the steering, the six speed box offers a slick and easy gear change. On motorways the ride is comfortable and smooth, even on twisty, minor roads, the Outlander is very stable and well balanced.

Renault Maxity

2007-08-29T08:26:00.000Z

Renault Trucks enjoys a unique market position in the delivery and self-employed sectors. Its know-how is a result of its long experience and an ability to listen carefully to the needs of the professionals from the road transport sector. Maxity is a proper truck whose exterior design features the expressive profile characteristic of the Renault Trucks family. Its styling is modern and resolutely European. Benefiting from Renault Trucks' extensive HGV experience, Renault Maxity relies on a cab-over-engine concept to provide an innovative and efficient solution to the demand for an LCV combining maximum compactness with maximum body length. Superb comfort and functionality in the cab combined with an excellent driving position and good all round visibility. Manoeuvrability, compactness and optimised payload are the winning features of this new vehicle offering its owners great operational cost savings.

The Maxity is available as a 3.5-tonner in Renault’s UK line-up and comes in a wide range of body lengths ranging from 2.65m to 4.96m and has a 1,820kg body + payload carrying capacity. The new Maxity is powered by a choice of 2.5 or 3.0-litre diesel engine, with power offerings of 110, 130 and 150hp. Two gearboxes are available for the Maxity, providing five or six speeds according to engine and applications. The six speed gearbox offers enhanced driving comfort with its unique short first gear, maintaining mobility even when travelling slowly as well as high torque at low engine speeds and lower fuel consumption. All-disc braking features ABS and EBD (electronic brake distribution) as standard. Also fitted as standard is EHS (easy hill start). This system allows the vehicle to be started on gradients without rolling backwards or using the parking brake. It also eliminates the need to constantly apply pressure to the brake pedal while waiting at traffic lights or in traffic jams.

Maxity’s surprisingly roomy cab offers a functional driving area boasting comfort close to that of a passenger car. The driving position gives full visibility to the easily-accessed controls and indicators. There are plenty of storage areas provided, including a refrigerated compartment, storage space under the roof, document holders, lockable glove box, and more. Both the driver and passenger seats are adjustable, offering superior comfort and flexibility in use. The modern upholstery design and colour adds a further touch of quality and durability. On-board comfort is further enhanced by the individual lighting and ventilation, including four air ducts on the dashboard. The steering column is reach and rake adjustable. The Maxity excels in urban environments with an extremely tight turning circle of 4.8m, this is a very compact and easily manoeuvrable truck, and copes well with narrow lanes and busy urban streets and allows you to easily access the most congested areas, to serve customers beyond the reach of larger vehicles. This is an impressive little truck together with its versatility and ease of operation, will appeal to a wide range of operators in the express delivery and sameday courier industry.

Ford S-Max

2007-07-27T10:50:00.000Z

S-MAX is the people carrier with a sporty edge. It's designed to stand out from the crowd with sharp styling, tight handling and powerful engines. It shares many new conveniences, dynamic and safety features with its sister car, the new Ford Galaxy. However, its seven seating, distinctive styling, and the availability of the 220PS Duratec 5-cylinder turbo engine from the Focus ST, signals its sporty character. It also indicates the potential for even more diversity in the heart of the Ford family car range, taking Ford into a new segment of the market.

Claudio Messale, Chief Designer for both the new S-MAX and Galaxy explained: “The new S-MAX and Galaxy are the first Ford production models to feature elements of or new ‘kinetic design’ form language. ‘Kinetic design’ expresses energy in motion, and was explored back in 2005. With S-MAX, Messale and his team wanted to design a distinctly different vehicle - one that was more of a crossover, combining elements of sports car and multi-activity vehicle, and using 'kinetic design' cues to stress its sporty personality. The athletic side profile of the new Ford S-MAX makes this easy to see. The fast roof line arching into the bonnet, the pronounced wheel arches with trailing-edge vents and the distinctive kick-up to the rear of the window glass area all help to indicate that this is a dynamic vehicle.
Step inside and you instantly get that feel-good factor about the cabin that's attractive and user friendly. In S-MAX, the driver enjoys a 'cockpit' driving position rather than the higher "command bridge" feel of the new Galaxy. It offers good feedback from the precise steering and gives good grip during cornering. With only one or two passengers on-board, or all the family and luggage the suspension performs very well, not too hard, not too soft. The S-Max is an MPV for people who enjoy driving. The front seats are immensely comfortable, and built for long distances; and all the control surfaces, steering wheel, pedals, gear lever – are evenly weighted. The seats in the middle row are similarly comfortable, and roomy, too, and even the rear-most seats are fine for short journeys, although clearly designed more for kids than grown-ups. An optional Panorama Roof gives all occupants a view to the sky, and allows additional daylight into the vehicle interior.

The full S-MAX engine line-up starts with a 2.0-litre petrol engine with 145bhp this is followed by 1.8 and 2.0-litre diesel engine with 125 and 140bhp respectively. The ultimate S-MAX gets a 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, which is also used in the Focus ST hot hatch with a six-speed manual gearbox. With 220bhp, it is a strong performer getting to 60mph in less than eight seconds. The petrol engine has a five-speed gearbox, the 2.0-litre diesel a six-speed gearbox and the 1.8 diesel is offered with either a five or a six-speed gearbox.

The all important load space ranges from 285-litres with three rows of seats in place, 854- litres of space with the rear seats folded and five seats still useable, up to 2,000-litres with the second and third rows folded down. Just as important is the fact that the load length with just the front two seats being used is two metres, long enough to sleep in if you so wish. In addition to the Ford FoldFlatSystem (FFS), several tie-down points are located across the floor and up the sides of the vehicle, helping secure items placed in the rear compartment. Michael Eisler, Manager Ford Customer Service Division said “Our intention with this new vehicle was to raise the industry bar for vehicle flexibility, as well as looking at the configuration flexibility and the load carrying capacity we believe that we have achieved that goal.”

Ford Galaxy

2007-07-27T10:48:00.000Z

Viewed from any angle, the Ford Galaxy is an elegant yet dynamic full–size people mover. The front end of the Galaxy is characterised by its distinctively angled nose and dynamic headlamps, which give it a purposeful appearance. Inside, the Galaxy is even more impressive where the interior continues the steps forward in quality and finish, the new dash is attractive and well laid out with particular attention to driver ergonomics. There are controls on the steering wheel for the stereo, navigation system, cruise control and mobile phone. The wheel itself has a pleasant feel, looks good and adjusts for reach and height. There are three basic trim levels, LX, Zetec and Ghia. LX has electric windows and mirrors, climate control and a CD player. Zetec adds a mid-length overhead storage console and a dual zone climate control. The Ghia model has extra chrome detailing to the exterior, cruise control, automatic wipers and headlights (which activate when it starts raining) and puddle lights (these are lights in the doors that illuminate the floor below). A Ghia X pack can ultimately be specified which adds a full-length roof storage unit and full leather interior. Heated and ventilated front seats can be specified as an option.

All on board get plenty of space with the two rows of rear seats benefiting from improved space in all directions over the previous Galaxy model. What's more, each chair, including the two in the rearmost row, adjusts for length, while their backrests also recline. The front seats also feature foldaway trays built into the backs for rear passenger use.
If you want to turn the Galaxy into a van you don’t have to break your back lifting seats out and then wondering where to store them, both the second and third rows disappear into the floor at the tug of a handle ooffering a flat load space of 2,325 litres. The cabin is full of neat storage solutions, including two big compartments under the middle row of seats, and one in the boot.

On the road, the Galaxy continues to impress, the steering is responsive and sporty in its feel and there's plenty of grip in corners. An optional adaptive suspension system allows the driver to select from three shock absorber settings (sport, normal and comfort) and continuously adjusts its levels of damping to suit road conditions and driver actions. Offered across LX, Zetec and Ghia trims, Galaxy buyers can choose from 145PS 2.0i 16-valve petrol, two 1.8 TDCI diesels (100 and 125PS) and a 2.0 TDCI diesel producing 130PS in automatic guise or 140PS with the six-speed manual gearbox.

Tough, practical, good to drive and comprehensively specified Ford’s flagship MPV benefits from an array of advanced active and passive safety features. There are seven airbags including window airbags that extend to the very rear protecting even those in the third row of seats. Other safety measures include pedals and a steering wheel designed to cause as little damage to the driver as possible in an accident. A passenger airbag deactivation switch (for use when carrying a child seat) is optional as are ISOFIX anchors for child seats that improve child protection in the event of an accident. There is no doubt Ford certainly have a winner here.

Iveco Stralis

2007-07-27T10:46:00.000Z

The revamped Iveco Stralis now comes with a top-of-the-range cab to offer that little extra to road transport operators. It’s hard to imagine that in 2002 the EuroStar was still Iveco’s flagship heavyweight product such is the progression made by the Italians.
And Iveco certainly have reason to be positive even though its product is overshadowed by sponsorship of New Zealand’s All Blacks rugby team – a top five recognised product around the world. Other than the external revamp of headlights, grille and livery space the main talking point is the Active Space Super Cube cabin. It has 20% more internal space than the previous ‘big cab’ available from the Italians in the form of Active Space, and 15% more storage.
Both issues are key as it’s what drivers want; more space, comfort and luxury, but more importantly for Iveco it has a genuine flagship tractor. That means more top end business from operators who like to reward drivers and owner-drivers looking for something different. Plus it will carry stronger residuals giving Iveco a better starting point for the rest of the product range with less engaging specification.

What’s more Euro-5 is the only option and with on-board-diagnostics [OBD] it will qualify for the £500 annual rebate from government. Combined with oil change intervals at 150,000km, the longest claim Iveco for any Euro-5 driveline on the market, helps keep the truck profitable and on the road longer. Iveco addressed extra AdBlue usage with Euro-5 selective catalytic reduction drivelines pinning use between 4-6% of diesel fuel consumed. From Euro-3 production in 2002 when the automated Stralis cut a drift from its manual competitors, it has become the most successful tractor in its history.

The Stralis driving experience polarises industry between those who have driven it and those who haven’t. If you have then the experience is positive because the old issues surrounding poor build quality, handling and ergonomics synonymous with EuroStar evaporate.
If you haven’t driven it we suggest you do. No clutch, automated as standard, the biggest issue is getting comfortable for the oncoming journey. The range is intriguing too; from its flagship Super Cube it runs right down into construction and distribution mode. It’s an all encompassing product from 18 to 44 tonnes; a direct singular cross-application spec and range other manufacturers tend to avoid. The tractor range has four cabs and three engines while the rigids have the choice of five cabs, plus construction gets manual gearboxes as well as automated as choice rather than having standard or optional extras.For Iveco to make inroads into a competitive UK market beyond its 9% over 18 tonnes these three areas need to succeed; bigger cab, Euro-5 as standard ahead of next years deadline for rebate, and getting bodies behind the wheel to experience it. Market perception is always an issue for Iveco so if you contact your local dealer for a test drive they should bend over backwards. It’s ticked all the right boxes, now the hard work begins; convincing the industry it’s a winner.

Volkswagen Transporter

2007-07-27T10:41:00.000Z

The Volkswagen Transporter can trace its lineage right back to the old ‘VeeDub Splitty’ of the late 1950s and early 1960s and has earned itself a tremendous reputation over the years for build quality and longevity you just have to look at the huge number of T4’s on the roads today. The Transporter slots in between the smaller Caddy and the larger LT and is VW's offering in the large panel van section. The T4 first hit our streets in 1990 and its successor the T5 has seen more improvements. Looks wise there is no difference from the outside although one of the key objectives was to make the Transporter bigger. Available in three roof heights and two wheelbases producing a range of four gross vehicle weights, with payloads from approximately 800kg to 1,400kg. These are further complemented by load compartment volumes ranging from 5.8m3 to 9.3m3. Inside the load area, you’ll find six or eight load lashing rings, according to wheelbase, to secure your load. When further capacity is needed, another useful feature is that the dual passenger seat back folds forward to help create extra space when carrying a longer load except when an optional bulkhead is fitted. Body options include a second sliding door, to add flexibility when loading or unloading, and a rear tailgate instead of the standard unglazed twin rear doors, which optionally open to an angle of 250° on long wheel base models.
Volkswagen has stuck with the existing direct injection configuration and the result is the TDI Pump Duse. Two engines are available the 1.9-litre engine in 84PS or 102PS form while the 2.5-litre TDI is available with a 130PS output or a 174PS. Two gear boxes are available either a six-speed manual gearbox or a smooth Tiptronic-style semi-automatic. The Transporter models are named according to their engine and gross vehicle weight, so once you've understood the basic mechanics it's easier to track down that van.

German cars and vans all feature seats which at first feel a little hard and upright and the Transporter is no exception. It’s only after a couple of hundred miles behind the wheel without a back twinge that you come to realise that these seats are very good indeed and that maybe you were wrong to pre-judge them. As with most other Volkswagens, the Transporter has excellent ride and handling characteristics and offers a lively performance even without a load the steering is positive and the ride comfortable. You could be forgiven for thinking you are not actually in a commercial vehicle so quiet is the ride and engine noise. The fascia looks smart with many switches and buttons carried over from VW's passenger cars, which are well placed and easy to operate. The instruments are clear and easy to read and get soothing blue backlighting; the gearstick is in the centre of the dash, rather than fixed to the floor and is easy to operate. Storage options are plenty for all manner of bits and bobs and a lockable glove box is handy for security. Following the latest trend the gear stick is in the centre console and easy to reach. You could easily be in a people carrier such is the refinement and simplicity of the cabin. Every model has as standard remote central locking, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, a height, and adjustable driver's seat, drivers' airbag and ABS brakes. The Transporter is one of the most reliable vans on the road, so hopefully those expensive VW parts won’t be required very often.

Daddy’s got a brand new car

2007-06-29T14:34:00.000Z

There is nothing quite like the Zafira VXR on the market a car that offers performance and driving dynamics combined with the family friendly flexibility of a seven seat MPV. It uses the same 240bhp turbocharged engine as the Astra VXR, and corners flat - or at least flatter than any MPV deserves to and will sprint from 0-60mph in just 7.2 seconds with a top speed of 144mph the Zafira VXR is the fastest MPV on sale in the UK.

There are quite a few styling tweaks to differentiate the VXR from its humbler brethren. Big brakes with distinctive blue callipers help reign in the cars power. As well as the VXR honeycomb grille, there’s a bigger front bumper with central air intake and integrated fog lights. Side sills and a modified rear bumper assembly are also fitted and twin exhaust pipes will give the overtaken a clue that this isn’t the usual people carrier. There’s a tailgate spoiler and big 18-inch alloy wheels. Nineteen-inch rims are also offered if you want to make the rest of the school runners jealous.

The interior has been boosted to the tune of Recaro sports front seats while the fabric on the instrument and door panels is coordinated with the seating. VXR logos adorn the gear lever and sports steering wheel while options include electronic climate control, front and rear parking sensors and a Bluetooth-compatible mobile kit.

Apart from the cosmetic VXR changes the driving position is pretty much standard Zafira, which means an excellent car-like driving position, reach and height adjustable steering wheel, gearstick sited conveniently on the dashboard and good overall visibility. The ratios of the six-speed manual gearbox are quite well judged, which means you get meaningful response just about anywhere in the speed range. Overtaking is laughably easy. The only problem is that other road users are sometimes taken by surprise at the Zafira's ridiculous fast pace. All Zafira VXRs come with electronic controls that look after damper settings, electronic stability programmes and braking systems in a way that allows fast, stable progress.

This sporty environment might not be what you’d expect from an MPV, but it doesn’t mean Zafira VXR loses any of its versatility. The current model is six inches longer, 1.5 inches wider and a shade taller than the outgoing model, and retains the seven-seat configuration. Now go take one for a test drive you wont be disappointed.

Volkswagen Sharan

2007-06-29T14:33:00.000Z

The most striking feature of the Sharan is its frontal styling; the bonnet features two prominent creases that lead down to a bold, chrome grille. At the back of the Sharan there is a distinctive design, with chrome-ringed light clusters. As you climb aboard the Sharan, you’ll immediately notice three things space, comfort and quality. This includes lovely touches like silver-ringed instruments, backlit at light with the familiar Volkswagen blue glow. There's also a smart centre console with space for the optional satellite navigation system and a chunky four-spoke steering wheel. More practical touches include retractable cup holders, extra map pockets in the doors and a pair of useful lidded cubby-holes on top of the dash.
These days, all models feature a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. If that doesn't suit, there's the option of a 5-speed automatic with Tiptronic override that allows you flip manually between the cogs. The entry-level is an 115bhp 2.0-litre petrol, or the base 115bhp 1. 9-litre turbo diesel, even better is the 140bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel option, with an advanced injection system, smoother performance and greater refinement it will get to 62mph from a standing start in 12.2s and average over 41mpg. There’s also a powerful 150bhp 1. 8-litre 20v petrol turbo engine for those seeking extra performance.

Seven seats are standard on all models, the two front seats can be swivelled round completely to face the rear which is great for picnics and business meetings if you're stationary and there's only four in the car. The Sharan's road handling has always been at the forefront of its class and a series of suspension tweaks for the second generation models improved things still further. The German engineers concentrated particularly on improving the ride over poor surfaces - the kind of thing you notice around town - and they've largely succeeded without compromising the higher speed handling that makes this car the surprisingly rewarding drive it is.

Despite the most recent improvement in standard specifications prices remain competitive across three trim levels S, SE and Sport. As for items of equipment, even the entry-level model gets curtain airbags, 16" alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, air-conditioning, security remote central locking, roof rails, an alarm, a trip computer, four airbags, ABS, an electronic engine immobiliser, electric front windows, power steering and a good quality radio/CD player. As before the reassurance of a three-year warranty is standard across the range.

Nissan X-TRAIL

2007-06-29T14:32:00.000Z

How do you replace a car when your customers tell you they like it just the way it is? Following a hugely successful car like the original X-TRAIL is not an easy task, especially when customers tell you to leave things as they are. But the all-new X-TRAIL is the perfect example of evolutionary change. Keeping the first-generation model in production wasn't practical, so the latest X-TRAIL is all-new, though as close in concept to its predecessor as possible. We were lucky enough to be one of the first to drive the new X-TRAIL out in Greece, so read on to find out how the new car shapes up.

The 2007 X-TRAIL boasts a new chassis and new body, an expanded range of more powerful engines providing better performance and economy. There’s more interior space, a much larger trunk area and greatly enhanced interior quality. It still retains the classic, tall SUV proportions of the original, a model that was such a success that the company more than doubled anticipated sales. The most obvious change inside the cabin, is the repositioning of the instrument cluster, which has been moved from the central stack to back behind the multi-function steering wheel. By returning the dials to a position directly ahead of the driver, Nissan have been able to place the navigation/reversing camera screen and the audio system higher up in the centre stack where the information they give are more easily seen. By improving the X-TRAIL on a number of levels but at the same time retaining its core appeal, Nissan are confident that as well as attracting new buyers they will increase customer loyalty.

The new X-TRAIL is fitted with a new diesel engine in 150bhp and 173bhp versions, the former with the option of automatic transmission. Each is impressively flexible, although the 173bhp diesel version benefits from more low-down pulling power than the 150bhp engine. There are also the 141bhp 2.0-litre and 169bhp 2.5-litre petrol engines to choose from. Both petrol-engined versions of X-TRAIL come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, but are also available with a refined continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with manual over-ride.

It retains all the qualities of the original although slightly larger than the original, it remains a compact SUV, one that’s comfortable and easy to drive on-road and off the beaten track. On Tarmac, the X-TRAIL strikes a fine balance between passenger comfort and driving pleasure, with suspension that provides a comfortable ride over any surface, yet also gives decent control through corners. Nissan’s latest electronically controlled ‘intelligent’ ALL MODE-i 4x4 system, which now works in parallel with hill start and descent control systems as well as reinforcing the X-TRAIL’s off-road capability, ALL MODE-i ensures that the dynamic performance on-road is stable, secure and predictable. By sending power to the wheels that have grip, understeer and oversteer is neutralised, which in turn leads to a more enjoyable, positive driving experience.

Despite the increase in overall dimensions, there is a generous 200mm ground clearance and short overhangs front and rear. At the front, the bonnet line stretches out almost horizontally from the base of the windscreen while the rear of the car is square, almost box-like with a more vertical and deeper tailgate to ensure the lowest possible loading sill. This is matched by the static side windows and the gently flared shoulders which run in parallel to the roof which is ribbed for extra strength and incorporates roof rails. Optionally available are deep Hyper roof rails which have in-built driving lamps at the front. It is in the luggage are where the new X-TRAIL shows its versatility with a larger trunk than before and an innovative drawer unit that slides away under a false floor where valuables can be kept out of sight at all times. When the rear seats are folded, the new X-TRAIL provides a luggage area of 1649 litres and with the false floor removed, the load capacity is incresed to 1773 litres.

X-TRAIL has sold in large numbers to European customers who appreciate its mix of practicality, ability and all-round performance and there is no reason to suggest that position will be any different for the new X‑TRAIL

Despatch the Dispatch

2007-06-29T14:31:00.000Z

The new Citroen Dispatch is designed to appeal to a wider range of UK operators and showcases a variety of technological innovations to raise comfort and safety standards and increase operational efficiency. The range includes short and long wheelbase vans, as well as standard and high roof models. Fitted as standard to all new Citroen vans is Trafficmaster Smartnav and Trackstar stolen vehicle tracking system. It is estimated that standard fitment of Trafficmaster Smartnav provides major time, fuel and efficiency gains, which are worth some £2,000 per vehicle per year.

The new Dispatch not only looks good, but its clean, bold aerodynamic lines are also practical. To protect it when it’s out on the streets, the new Dispatch has all round wide protective side mouldings and big, multi-piece bumpers. The product of a £300 million investment at the Sevel factory in northern France, the range comes with a choice of 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesel engines with a total of three outputs: 90, 120 and 136PS, six-speed transmission is standard with the 2.0-litre versions. All three new power units offers the benefits of impressive levels of performance and driveability, coupled with extended service intervals of up to 20, 000 miles, excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions.

Inside the cab large windows create a bright interior with a wide field of vision for the driver. The driving position is comfortable and ergonomic with the controls and indicators falling naturally to hand, thus helping the driver to concentrate on the road. For a compact van, there’s plenty of space to store the many items now needed by a regular driver. Especially useful is the split overhead shelf, which is high enough not to be a nuisance and has a door on each section for extra safety. In addition, all models have a 12 volt socket on the dashboard and another in the rear load compartment. There is a wide range of options available including air conditioning, cruise control and a speed limiter, automatic wipers and headlights, reversing radar, alloy wheels and a 5-CD stacker.

For maximum loading efficiency, new Dispatch has twin, side load doors. At the rear it has big, side-hinged doors, while a tailgate is optionally available on both panel van and Combi versions. With a choice of short and long wheelbase models and standard and high roof configurations the new Dispatch offers considerably greater load compartment volumes than the current model’s 4.0cu.m. The short wheelbase standard roof Dispatch has a load compartment volume of 5.0cu.m and the long wheelbase standard roof van has 6.0cu.m, which increases to 7.0cu.m with the high roof version. Similarly, payloads have risen from the current model’s 900kg maximum to 1,000 -1,200kg dependent on model.

In addition to a wider range of specialist bodies/conversions, the new Ready to Run programme offered by Citroen
now includes the new Dispatch and offers a one-stop shop. Not only is the latest Citroen Ready to Run programme the most comprehensive of its type, it is also unique in a number of other important aspects. All of the products are exceptionally well priced and ensure uncompromised conversion standards - any Ready to Run product is of the highest specification and supplied by the leading converter in its field. All body conversions and add-on packages are covered by each converter with two year unlimited mileage/three year 100,000 mile warranties, to match the cover provided with the standard Citroen vehicle. Also, all Citroen vehicles with Euro IV diesel engines can run, without modification, on up to 30 per cent bio-diesel. Citroen have certainly invested a lot of time and money in their commercial vehicles and without a doubt it certainly shows.

Citroen Berlingo

2007-06-29T14:30:00.000Z

Citroen’s 2007 Berlingo range is now offered with a choice of even more advanced, fuel efficient engines. The new 1.6HDi diesels now fitted to the Berlingo range provide the operational benefits of improved economy, greater power and up to 40 per cent more torque compared with the powerplants they replace, as well as lower engine operating speeds and the environmental benefits of Euro IV emission standards. Replacing the Euro III 1.9D and 2.0HDi diesels are 75hp and 90hp versions of Citroen’s Euro IV 1.6HDi engine. These diesel units are complemented by a 75hp Euro IV 1.4i petrol engine, already available in the Berlingo for conversion to run on both LPG and petrol.

The Berlingo’s cab provides the driver with a safe, comfortable and convenient working environment. The high driving position and large doors make getting in and out far easier for the driver an important consideration in multi-drop operations. The folding passenger seat in LX and Enterprise models folds down to provide a working area with elastic strap to hold paperwork and the inside includes cup holders with two by the gear stick and one by the handbrake. All models apart from base 600D X, have electric windows and mirrors, remote central looking, radio/cassette, and intelligent locks that automatically lock you in at 6mph. The variety and diversity of the different Berlingo models on offer puts much of the competition in the shade. For the ultimate Berlingo look no further than the Enterprise model here CV buyers get ABS brakes, EBD and a CD player as well as all the standard stuff.

The load space is well shaped and there is enough room between the wheel arches to take a standard pallet plus additional room front and rear for additional items. The doors open to 180 degrees to allow easy access with a forklift. The load length is 1.7m which is extendible to 2.1m in the LX and Enterprise models by folding the muti-function passenger seat and is 1.6m maximum width. Load compartment equipment includes load securing eyes, interior load area lighting and a ladder frame bulkhead behind the driver.

The new Berlingo range will strengthen Citroen’s position in the light van sector combined with the key benefits of improved fuel efficiency, driveability and performance, coupled with lower emissions. Price-wise the Berlingo remains on a par with or slightly cheaper than the rest of the top contenders in the light van sector.

Citroën C4 Picasso 'Alive with technology'

2007-06-29T14:27:00.000Z

When Citroën launched the Xsara Picasso in 2000 the Compact MPV sector was in its infancy, now MPVs’ represent a remarkable one in ten of all cars sold in the UK. However, the massive recent growth in this market has principally been down to the rise of the Compact MPV, with sales exploding from zero to well over 200,000 in the space of a decade. There are two versions of the C4 Picasso a five-seat version and a larger seven-seat version both versatile and well suited to family life. Here we review the C4 1.6HDi 110hp EGS VTR+ this is the seven-seat version.

With its sleek exterior lines, huge glazed area and uncluttered interior the new C4 Picasso sees Citroën stretching the boundaries of design once again. Looking at the C4 Picasso, the eyes are immediately drawn to the abundance of glass wrapped around the vehicle. This is most noticeable at the front, where the windscreen stretches back over the driver’s head, but equally extends to the large side windows. The result is that the cabin is extraordinarily light – especially welcome on overcast days – when it helps brighten the interior. Visibility is excellent and there are extra large sunblinds that pull down for extra shade.

The designers have worked hard to create an uncluttered look and feel in the front of the car. Take, for example, the steering wheel, only the rim moves, the boss remains stationary. That means all the function buttons it contains are in a fixed position, which is handy, as there are up to four discrete clusters: audio controls, cruise control and speed limiter and multi-function display controls. In common with a few other cars, the digital speedo is contained within a centrally mounted translucent display, which also includes a fuel gauge, water temperature gauge, odometer, speed-limiter settings, and so on. Nothing new there, except there is: the translucent display is light-sensitive, which means that it is always sharply legible, regardless of light conditions.

The new C4 Picasso is available with a choice of four proven engines - two petrol and two diesel and two transmissions, depending on model a 5-speed manual gearbox or a hi-tech 6-speed electronic gearbox system.
The C4 offers a driving experience to match any of its mainstream rivals. Safe, sure-footed and responsive, it carries the Citroen name forward with distinction.

A fresh new look at Vauxhalls Vivaro

2007-05-11T14:29:00.000Z

Vauxhalls Vivaro van has carved a very useful niche for itself in the medium-sized UK van sector. A combination of smart styling, tight pricing, low running costs and a wide variance of bodystyles have all added to its favour. The already striking looks of the Vivaro, with its distinctive ‘bubble’ roof, have recently had a nip and tuck to make it appear even more modern and dynamic. The redesigned teardrop-shaped front headlamps give the nose a smoother appearance, while the indicator lamps have been moved from the bumper to be housed inside the light units. The fresh nose is set off by a wider, more prominent V-grille to bring it in line with the rest of the Vauxhall model range. At the rear, the tail lights extend high up towards the roof from the rear bumper for better traffic visibility. These new features highlight the Vivaro’s appeal to customers who focus not only on practicality, but also on style.

Vivaro is modern-looking inside, comfortable and very practical. This is without doubt one of the most comfortable driving environments in light commercial vehicles. There's room enough in the cab for three without feeling cramped. The dash-mounted gearstick is easy to use and frees up floor space, allowing the driver to leave the van via the passenger door if needed. The dashboard is hooded, so that any items placed in the fascia cubbies do not cause irritating reflections in the windscreen. The driving position is adaptable, with a height-adjustable driver's and a height and reach-adjustable steering wheel. Fresh upholstery and fabrics give the interior a smart, clean appearance, while top models get alloy-effect detailing on the gear lever and door trims, as well as smart chrome rims around the dials. Big door bins take care of odds and ends and are large enough for large bottles. There are a number of shelves for paperwork and odds and ends. Vivaro buyers will also benefit from GM’s latest technology, with standard ABS, optional ESP and alloy wheels.

The revised engine range includes two all-new 2.0-litre CDTi units, which are fully Euro IV compliant. The engines develop either 90PS or 115PS compared to the 82PS and 100PS of the old 1.9-litre units. A revised 2.5-litre CDTi powerplant completes the line up, with 145PS. All Vivaros get a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while 2. 5-litre models are offered with optional Tecshift semi-automatic transmission. You can also now get this innovative gearbox on 2.0-litre 115PS versions for the first time. They offer higher performance with practically the same fuel consumption, but have up to 26 per cent more pulling power than their predecessors.
The latest Vivaro has one of the most versatile line-ups in its class, available in several versions up to 2. 9 tonnes in gross vehicle weight and offered with two wheelbase options (3098mm and 3498mm) and two roof heights giving a maximum load volume of over 8m3. The short-wheelbase low roof panel van has a length of 4.78m, a width of 1.90m and a height of 1. 96m inside, the load area is 2.41m long and 1.32m high. To save you doing the sums, that means a loading capacity of around five cubic metres. Opt for the long version and that rises to nearly six cubic metres, thanks to a length of 5.18m and a load area length of 2.81m, in other words, enough for three Euro-pallets. To help access all this space, a one metre-wide sliding door is fitted as standard on the passenger side. A second sliding door is available as an optional extra, as is a hinged rear door opening to an angle of 270 degrees for the long wheelbase version.

On the road, Vivaro is an excellent performer. It's easy to drive, with good steering and sharp brakes. Handling is excellent and it copes as well with twisty roads as it does with the outside lane of motorways.

Citroen Relay

2007-05-11T14:26:00.000Z

The new Citroen Relay represents a major advance for both the company and its customers. To succeed in one of the most hotly contested sectors of the light commercial vehicle market, new Relay makes full use of the benefits of innovative, premium quality design and engineering. Modern, distinctive styling sets new Relay apart and introduces a range of practical benefits.

At the front end, the substantial bumper assembly provides effective frontal impact protection and incorporates two inset steps to enable the driver to reach up and clean the large windscreen. Another practical feature of the front bumper is its three-part construction which minimises accident repair costs. Significantly the latest Relay brings the operational and cost saving benefits of improved productivity, greater model choice, attractive pricing and premium residual values. In addition, it takes Citroen into the 4.0 tonne gvw sector for the very first time.Citroen has paid particular attention to ensuring that driver and passengers have a safer, more comfortable and practical working environment. An industry-first is the fitting, as standard, to all new Relay panel vans; of Trafficmaster Smartnav GPS Satellite Navigation and Trackstar stolen vehicle tracking systems. Trafficmaster Smartnav GPS Satellite Navigation makes the driver’s job easier, while the operator benefits from the reduction in wasted mileage and shorter journey times. All models have a dual passenger seat, which incorporates a drop down desk unit. In addition, electric windows and heated electrically operated mirrors are standard together with an RDS stereo radio and CD player. There is a multitude of in-cab storage areas to provide a generous amount of space for paperwork, sunglasses, drinks and other day-to-day necessities.

All panel vans are fitted with a large, single nearside sliding door, which is full height on both low and medium roof height models and is wide enough to load a standard ISO pallet. Full height twin rear doors, which are available in glazed or unglazed formats open out to 180 degrees as standard and can be optionally specified to open a full 270 degrees to fold back against the body sides. There are four available gross weights designated as 30 (3.0 tonne gvw), 33 (3.3 tonne gvw), 35 (3.5 tonne gvw) and 40 (4.05 tonne gvw). The four available lengths are designated as L1 (short), L2 (medium), L3 (long) and L4 (extra long) and the three roof heights are H1 (standard), H2 (high) and H3 (extra high).

As well as being closer to the ground for easier loading, all new Relay panel vans offer larger internal body dimensions than the models they replace. The smallest new Relay, the L1H1 panel van can be specified in 3.0, 3.3 and 3.5 tonne gross weights - this panel van body configuration is expected to be the best seller in the range. As such Citroen has ensured that this Relay model offers more than its competitors, with a high payload and a load space volume of 8.0cu.m, which is significantly greater than the majority of its rivals.

Fitted to all new Relays is an advanced fuel efficient, common rail, high pressure injection Euro IV HDi diesel engine. The 2.2HDi engine is available in both 100hp (74kW) and 120hp (88kW) versions. The largest engine is a 3.0HDi 160hp (115kW) unit. These new HDi engines, like all other modern Citroen diesels, can run on up to 30 per cent bio-diesel, without modification. The 100hp engine is matched with a 5-speed gearbox, while the two higher power units are fitted with six-speed, all synchromesh gearboxes.The new Relay options range covers safety, comfort and practicality and includes air conditioning, a choice of bulkheads, electric foldable mirrors, extended mirrors, upgraded audio equipment and a choice of communication packages.

Cruise control, a speed limiter, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera are also available. All models are covered by Citroen’s unique, flexible two year unlimited mileage/three year 100,000 mile warranty package, which underlines the range’s premium quality credentials.

The new Peugeot Expert

2007-05-11T14:04:00.000Z

Peugeot has been making both cars and commercial vehicles for more than a century. The latter have always occupied an important position in the range. In total, more than 5 million units have been produced since Peugeot was founded.
The “Expert” range of commercial vehicles made its appearance in the autumn of 1995 as one of the pioneers of the compact van market segment. In 11 years, two generations of the Peugeot Expert have been launched and more than 300,000 Experts have been produced. Today, this third generation Expert, again developed by PSA Peugeot Citroën in partnership with Fiat, marks a turning point for Peugeot, thanks to the improvement in standard equipment levels, performance and the greater versatility offered by the new vehicle ranges.

The new Expert has been designed around all the strengths of the current model, namely, handling, ride comfort and driving position and introduces equipment levels similar to those found in a modern car.The new Peugeot Expert van, is now available in more versions (two wheelbases and two roof heights creating a total of three versions) and with increased load capacities in terms of volume and weight while still maintaining low running costs.A new long wheelbase and high roof version is offered making it possible to carry a volume of up to 7 m3 and a payload of 1200 kg. A new and real innovation to be found on the new Expert is the pneumatic rear suspension. It makes it possible to lower the overall height of the van, enabling it to enter underground car parks. It also improves loading and gives the vehicle a constant ride height whatever the load. A manual control can be used to adjust the load height when stationary. Because of its square shape, large load area and clever internal storage, it can easily accommodate a “Euro- pallet.

The body structure has also been strengthened and now includes deformable areas designed to reduce impact damage in the event of a collision and thereby lower repair costs. The driving qualities of the vehicle and the excellent road holding of the new Expert are strengthened by a new range of engines. There are three HDi diesel engines a 1.6 litre HDi 90 bhp , 2.0 litre HDi 120 bhp and a 2.0 litre HDi 136 bhp and one petrol engine 2.0 litre 16V 140 bhp. The power trains now only require servicing at 20,000 miles instead of 10,000 miles. These engines also help to protect the environment as they comply with the Euro 4 emission standard.
Particular care has been taken with regards to the security of both the occupants and the load area. The driver can lock or unlock the rear load area independently of the passenger cab, either remotely by using the three button remote control key or from the driving position. Great attention has been paid to the comfort of the occupants. The architecture of the new Peugeot Expert allows a driving position closer to that of a modern car than of a commercial vehicle, but also benefits from a generous amount of light and a strong feeling of space created by the forward position of the windscreen. Finally, the interior is both functional and robust and available in several different trim levels.

In days gone by, designing a van was a simple exercise in playing to the cost-cutting instincts of the office bound accountant who held the company purse strings. These were people who would never know, and didn’t much care, whether there was somewhere to store a thermos flask on board or if a good CD stereo was included on the spec list. In fact, if it meant cutting a few quid off the list price, they’d prefer that there wasn’t. Increasingly today, the people who buy vans are the people who will actually be driving them be they small business operators or workers choosing a van on their firm to avoid exorbitant company car tax.

The Ford Transit equipped with Bosh active safety systems

2007-05-11T14:02:00.000Z

The expectation for today’s modern van is that they drive and handle more like cars than commercial vehicles. Because drivers spend so much time behind the wheel of a typical van, and in many cases they have dual work/social use, comfort and convenience is becoming increasingly important and safety is an equally important ingredient. As well as installing disc brakes all round to the new Transit, Ford engineers have also utilised the Bosch Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) as a standard feature. The EBD function is particularly valuable in a light commercial vehicle application, as it allows for a greater variation in brake balance between front and rear axles dependent on the wider load variations experienced with this type of vehicle.

As an additional safety feature, and also following the trend in passenger cars, Ford is fitting Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with rollover mitigation and Load Adaptive Control (LAC) as standard fitment. This technology takes account of load and weight in the vehicles and adapts the vehicle dynamics control to suit.

Many independent studies in Germany, Sweden and the USA, have shown the value of ESP as an additional element in potentially reducing the number and severity of accidents caused by vehicle skidding. This is particularly important in the case of vans, since their design and their use leave them with tighter safety margins. Depending on load, the centre of gravity shifts, and consequently the risk of rollover may increase. Bosch believes this evidence should encourage all purchasers of light commercial vehicles to specify their vehicle with these active safety features.

Bosch developed the electronic stability program, and has manufactured more than 20 million systems since series production began in 1995. ESP® controls vehicle dynamics by selectively braking individual wheels and reducing engine torque. Within the limits set by physical laws, this markedly increases driving safety. The proportion of vehicles fitted with ESP® has risen significantly over recent years. There is still, however, a need to catch up. About one in every four light commercial vehicles manufactured in Europe is currently fitted with this safety system – a proportion that is significantly lower than that for cars. Small vans, with designs based on cars, are even further behind. Only about two percent of these are fitted with an ESP® system. Almost every European manufacturer is opting for this Bosch load-adaptive ESP®. It can be found, for instance, in the Citroën Relay, Fiat Ducato, Ford Transit, Iveco Daily, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Peugeot Boxer and the Volkswagen Crafter.