Ireland's Foremost Fleet & Corporate Sector Guide

IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

Volume 13. No. 2. Summer 2014 Made by Sweden. Designed for your world. The Volvo S60 now from only €29,995*

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VOLVOCARS.IE *Delivery and related charges not included. Terms and conditions apply. Model shown is the Volvo S60 D4 SE Manual priced at €37,195. Fuel consumption for the Volvo Range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 26.9 (10.5) – 68.9 (4.1), Extra Urban 41.5 (6.8) – 83.8 (3.4), Combined 34.4 (8.2) – 76.3 (3.7). CO2 Emissions 215 – 96 g/km. All new Volvo cars come with a 3 year warranty and 2 years’ roadside assistance. Contents Summer 2014 www.ﬂ eetcar.ie | 3 4 News • Peugeot 308 SW • Tips to reduce ﬂ eet’s TCOs • Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV • Enterprise extends offerings • Volkswagen Passat • Fleet managers urged to seek out 5 star Fleet Car Magazine, Euro NCAP ratings 18 Fleet Tests D’Alton Street, Claremorris, Test drives at Millbrook Proving Ground, U.K. Co. Mayo, Ireland. Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826 8 Interview Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571 With Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie 20 Test I Email: enquiries@fl eet.ie Ford EcoSport and Courier Tourneo ISSN: 1649-9433 8 Awards www.fl eetcar.ie Winners all in the third annual Fleet Car 22 Test II Awards with Motorcheck.ie Peugeot 308 Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie Deputy Editor: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fl eet.ie 14 Launch Pad wwww.flww.fl eetcar.ieeetcar.ie Contributors: • Kia Soul FFleetleet CCarar MMagazine’sagazine’s wwebsiteebsite Paul White • Mercedes-Benz C-Class • Skoda Octavia Sport NNOWOW OONN TTWITTERWITTER TOO!TOO! Photography: Jarlath Sweeney, Cathal Doyle, Paul White, Paul P9 Sherwood

Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey, Paula Mullarkey

Advertising: Mary Morrissey

Design: Eamon Wynne

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Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet Disclaimer: Fleet Car Magazine management publication can be accepted by the Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet can accept no responsibility for the accuracy authors, contributors, Editors or publishers. of contributed articles or statements The Editor reserves the right to make Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/ appearing in this magazine and any views publishing decisions on any advertisements Fleet Maritime are published by JJDS or opinions expressed are not necessarily or editorial article submitted to the magazine Publications Ltd. Registered Offi ce: D’Alton those of Fleet Transport management, and to refuse publication or to edit any Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. save where otherwise indicated. No editorial material as seems appropriate to responsibility for loss or distress occasioned him. Professional legal advice should always Co. Reg. 368767 to any person acting or refraining from be sought in relation to any specifi c matter. Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh. acting as a result of the material in this

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www.fl eetcar.ie 4 | NEWS I Tips for fl eets on reducing their expenditure Stay connected with AVIS ost reduction is the buzz word among 3. Fuel Costs fleet managers, but decreasing Avis Rent-a-Car is to bring portable Wi-fi C operating costs isn’t about simply Th is is the big one for all fl eets, and rightly so. connectivity to its fl eet to enable customers fi nding the cheapest supplier. Indeed, that However, fuel bills can be tackled with a variety to enjoy broadband wireless internet approach can oft en lead to false economies. of tactics. First and foremost is ensuring the connectivity at all times and places during Instead, the real way to achieve actual vehicles themselves are properly maintained their travel from airports, to meetings, to long lasting savings is to look at improving with regular servicing and tyre pressure checks hotels and everything in between. efficiencies at the same time as reducing – which alone can add 5% to 10% to a fuel bill unnecessary expenditure in key areas. Leading if not correct. Utilising telematics can help in Only available in the UK and Europe as independent leasing and fl eet management achieving lower fuel costs by educating drivers yet, up to 5 devices can be used at one specialist, Venson Automotive Solutions to take the shortest route possible, avoiding time. Prices average €10 per day in UK to believes this can be achieved via a number congestion, and not making excessive journeys. €7 per day in Europe. of avenues, and as such is off ering tips for Many telematics providers suggest 10% savings fl eets on how to maintain or improve that can be guaranteed. all-important bott om line. 4. Driver Training 1. Challenge Your Fleet Supplier Most drivers will feel that they don’t require There’s no need to fear challenging the training but 22% of crashes are caused by driver established order, in fact shaking things up inatt ention or distraction, and a driver who can be mutually benefi cial for both parties. The performs a secondary task while at the wheel is sign of a genuinely eff ective fl eet supplier is one up to 3 times more likely to crash*. Implementing that works with a fl eet manager to ensure their a driver risk assessment program coupled with fl eet policy is the most appropriate for their either classroom or in vehicle training will not needs. In addition, fl eet managers must ensure only see incident rates fall but with it associated Wireless charging on EVs in they know about the ‘hidden’ costs from their accident costs. Additionally insurers tend to UK supplier, such as administration, maintenance, look more kindly on a fl eet that has an active tyres and windscreen recharges. driver training program in place. Th e Highways Agency (HA) in the UK is to establish a wireless inductive charging 2. Review Company Vehicle Policy Alan McCleave, Business Development Director system for electric vehicles on one of its for Venson Automotive Services, comments, motorways as a pilot project. Th is will mean Vehicle whole life costs are one of the least- “Th ese tips are just a fl avour of what can be that the range distance of electric powered considered but most important factors when it achieved if a company works hand in hand with a vehicles will be further extended and may comes to selecting vehicles for a fl eet policy. It fl eet provider to look at their needs and respond allow for manufacturers to produce smaller may seem simple but having a fl eet supplier that with the appropriate off ering. It is our core belief batt eries. Dynamic charging of this type provides information that takes into account that it is not just about off ering a one size fi ts all has been used in city bus transport across all aspects of running a vehicle, including tax, solution, but rather working with a fl eet manager Europe in recent years. Various criteria are maintenance, fuel and insurance – amongst a to help them achieve their fi nancial objectives under consideration with the HA project number of other factors – means that a fl eet whilst still running a high-performing fl eet. Our such as the vehicle’s ability to receive the manager can take a look at two models with an key advice is know what you are gett ing from batt ery charge while travelling at high identical list price but be able to choose the one your fl eet management company. On the surface speed, while the system needs to be cost that is most cost eff ective for their fl eet over the some providers can look to be delivering the eff ective and weather resistant. vehicle’s life. cheaper option, but then too far down the line companies realise the “paper savings” are not More lives can be saved on our translating into tangible or real savings.” roads – ETSC Despite improvements in vehicle safety, drink driving and inappropriate speed Enterprise teams-up with Travel are still contributing to many deaths on European roads according to the European Management Operators Transport Safety Council (ETSC). Th e orporate travel buyers in Europe safety campaigners estimate that 5,600 can now more easily select deaths, half of them in cars, could be Enterprise Rent-A-Car for their prevented annually by eliminating drink C driving and a further 1,300 lives could be car hire needs in all major European saved, if the average speed on all roads was markets aft er it formed new agreements withh a countries fromfTkh Turkey in the east through hh to cut by just 1 km/h. ETSC is calling on the number of the world’s top travel management Ireland in the west. EU to mandate the use of alcohol interlocks operators including American Express Travel for repeat drink driving off enders and for and BCD Travel. Enterprise already has established relationships bett er enforcement of speed limits across with American Express Travel and BCD Travel all EU Member States. Th is growth into the travel management industry in the US in order to meet the needs of business follows Enterprise’s major pan-European travellers in North America. However, these expansion programme both through acquisition new partnerships in Europe will enable inbound and the appointment of franchisee partners. business travellers from all parts of the world to wwww.flww.fl eetcar.ieeetcar.ie FFleetleet CCarar MMagazine’sagazine’s wwebsiteebsite Enterprise has now grown into one of the largest access a car hire network that is renowned for European car hire networks, which covers 29 its customer care. FLEETCAR | Summer 2014 NEWS II | 5 New Global NCAP guidelines urge Fleet Managers to opt for ‘5 Star’ ratings Hair Toxicology technology to detect drug use lobal NCA P has published company, and the Governments new guidelines for of Australia and Sweden have Environmental testing, inspection and G organisations operating already adopted this policy. compliance provider, Environmental vehicle fleets, recommending Scientifi cs Group (ESG), has developed a fl eet purchasers to select vehicles This approach is consistent new drug and alcohol detection technology that have been rated by New Car with the recommendations of to help companies protect the safety of Assessment Programmes (NCAPs) the UN Decade of Action for their employees. with the much coveted ‘fi ve star’ Road Safety launched in 2011, safety rating. Global NCAP also which encourages “managers of In addition to its accredited drugs of recommends that fl eet managers government and private sector abuse in urine sample testing, ESG now confi rm that the cars they purchase fl eets to purchase, operate and offers hair toxicology analysis using meet the most important minimum maintain vehicles that offer the Shimadzu system - putt ing it at the United Nations vehicle safety advanced safety technologies forefront of technological advances in standards. and high levels of occupant the industry. protection”. Global NCAP’s Global NCAP Secretary General guidelines will also help Accurate drug abuse analysis is essential David Ward explained: “Any organisations wishing to adopt for companies employing safety-critical organization can improve safety by carefully the new road traffi c safety standard ISO 39001, workers, such as those in the transport selecting the vehicles it uses. Global NCAP which identifi es vehicle safety as a signifi cant industry. When used alongside traditional encourages all fl eet managers both public and factor for fl eet operators seeking to reduce death methods such as urine testing, hair private to make ‘fi ve star’ safety their goal in the and injury in road crashes. toxicology can enhance the accuracy of UN Decade of Action.” substance detection and identifi cation. As well as calling for ‘fi ve star’ cars wherever For companies with global operations and fl eets, possible, the guidelines propose that fl eets ask ESG is already in talks with a number of the lack of regulation by Governments in emerging manufacturers to confi rm that the vehicle passes leading contractors about providing hair markets and the absence of independent crash tests the minimum United Nations safety regulations toxicology testing services this year. has become a real concern. Of the record level of concerning seat belts, and front and side crash 65 million new passenger cars built last year, as tests. Vehicles that meet regulations for electronic 100 million Bosch ESP many as a third would fail to pass the UN’s front stability control and pedestrian protection are also systems and side crash tests, and do not have air bags, anti- rated as “strongly preferred” and the new crash lock brake systems (ABS) or electronic stability avoidance technology autonomous emergency Bosch has produced 100 million ESP control (ESC). “By following Global NCAP’s braking (AEB) is “highly recommended”. systems since the start of series production new guidelines,” said David, “it will be easier for in 1995. In the process, the company has organisations to ensure that the safety of their Max Mosley, Chairman of Global NCAP, said: “If made a signifi cant contribution to making vehicle fl eet provides acceptable levels of protection a company provides a car for their staff to use, it driving safer. Especially on slippery roads, to their employees.” should be as safe as reasonably possible. A fi ve-star but also in instances where vehicles drive or Top Pick safety rating is the best indication of into bends too quickly, the electronic Motivated by a combination of duty of care for this. It’s prudent also to check whether cars also stability program helps keep vehicles on employees, corporate social responsibility and meet the UN’s minimum safety regulations. course and prevent skidding accidents, eff ective cost controls, a growing number of With so many global brands neglecting to apply which oft en have serious consequences. organisations are introducing fl eet safety policies these regulations, fl eet managers and company and selecting only fi ve-star cars for their employees. car drivers should not assume basic safety comes Aft er the seatbelt, ESP is the car’s most BHP Billiton, the world’s largest resource extraction as standard.” important safety system. According to studies, it can prevent up to 80% of skidding accidents. In November, ESP will become Kia MD James Brooks new mandatory on cars and light commercial vehicles sold in the EU. President of the SIMI aving served as James said that his presidency Treasurer and commences at a time of H Deputy President in improved outlook for the the past, James Brooks is the Industry: “I hope that we new President of the Society are now turning a corner and of the Irish Motor Industry. that during the course of my James, M.D., of Kia Motors year in offi ce we will see our Ireland succeeds Paul Linders as Industry head towards sales President of the representative of 100,000 units.” body for Vehicle manufacturers/ distributors, Franchise An accountant by profession, Dealerships, Independent Dublin born James Brooks garages and many other joined Kia as general manager associated businesses in the in 2005 and was appointed NNOWOW OONN TTWITTERWITTER Motor Industry in Ireland. Managing Director in 2007 TTOO!OO! aft er previously working for Speaking at the Society’s AGM Opel for 10 years. in Killashee House Hotel, Naas, www.fl eetcar.ie 6 | INTERVIEW if you stand still you’re dead. We need to get more scientifi c about analysing residual values One-to-One: and more sophisticated about remarketing ex-fl eet vehicles. Having said that, it’s a real Michael Rochford, challenge in a market of this size. In terms of immediate opportunities there are a large M.D. Motorcheck.ie, number of potential ex-fl eet customers who are now on cash allowance. Th ese are completely with Jarlath Sweeney, ignored by the sector. Looking a lot further Managing Editor, into the future, telematics and electric vehicles are set to make an impact on the industry in Fleet Car future. JS Motorcheck.ie specialises in producing JS Can you see the new low displacement vehicle data and intelligence for both the private petrol engines making an impact in the fl eet and commercial owner but can you outline what sector? data/resources you provide specifi cally for the fl eet/corporate sector? MR Yes, they are bound to. Th ese types of innovations are always greeted with a large MR In addition to its vehicles history dollop of scepticism by most user-chooser check service which is used widely by the types. But in a sector where economy is all fl eet sector, Motorcheck.ie also provides some sounded as 2014 seems to be the bounce back important the ultra-low CO2 emissions, fuel specifi c service in relation to the fl eet/corporate year for new car sales, so supply will probably economy and ultimate pricing of these vehicles sector, namely New Car Reg Stats, Residual come back into line with demand by 2016 and will ensure they force their way on to fl eet Value Analysis and of course our Annual Fleet beyond. lists. Th e fact that they will also produce Study which is Ireland’s most detailed annual more torque and pulling power than their market research report into the corporate fl eet JS Th e advice you off er on the Motorcheck larger counterparts should eventually mean sector. Th e deliverables are not just published blog is interesting especially the Used Car Guide that they will win the hearts and minds of the as a report but, also are an actionable database – gett ing a good reaction? sector. Aft er all if you think back a few years of fl eet contacts and statistics. most fl eet drivers wouldn’t have countenanced MR Yes the Motorcheck.ie blog is very driving a 1.6TDi over a 1.9TDi and look what JS The company car sector plays popular and we receive a lot of website traffi c happened there! a signifi cant role in new car sales and the because of it. Th e Used Car Guides are always aft ermarket. Do you think that manufacturers interesting to Petrol Heads or those of us who JS Are you pleased with the progress of and distributors are suffi ciently focused on, may be considering the purchase of a used car. the Fleet Car Awards? and address the specifi c requirements of the Since the consumer site deals with used car fl e e t s e c t o r ? history and fi nance checks it’s quite appropriate MR Yes indeed. Th e Fleet Car Awards for us to generate this type of content for our has been a great event to be involved with for MR The fleet sector is a hugely visitors. Th ere is so much choice in the used the past three years. It has come on in leaps and signifi cant part of the new car market. On car market nowadays that there is no end to bounds over such a short space of time and now average approximately 40% of all new vehicles the guides in sight. it is fi rmly established on the motoring calendar. registered annually are registered in a company Th is year was without doubt the best Awards name. Granted, this fi gure includes hire drives JS How do you see your company event yet. Th e addition of some new categories, and pre-registrations, but even allowing for progressing into the future? such as the Crossover/SUV category, really this the sector is hugely important. When the made sense and added to the awards. Th ere was recession hit in 2008 the fl eet market dried MR Our plan is to continue growing in a really diverse mix of vehicles up for honours up and it was not top of the agenda for most the Irish market. Th e automotive data business and a really diverse, but well deserved, group manufacturers for obvious reasons. But in in Ireland is still in its infancy so there is still of winners. I don’t envy the judges though as I recent years manufacturers are switching plenty of room for growth. We want to be at the would fi nd it very diffi cult to make up my mind back on to fl eet and some really savvy ones forefront of this industry for many years to come in some of the categories! like Hyundai and Volvo are keenly aware of so that means continuing to innovate, and to the importance of the sector. examine new ways in which to use the huge JS Your recent report on the used car data repositories at market shows an increase in residual values. our disposal. We have What impact is that having on the fleet also begun to look at sector? overseas markets this year for new business MR It’s not so much an increase in opportunities and residuals, as used cars will always depreciate inspiration on new in value. It’s more of a fl att ening out of the rate products that can of depreciation across nearly every sector and be introduced back age profi le which means that the average person home. on the street is paying a lot more today for a 3-5 year old car than they paid for the same age of JS Does vehicle back in 2010. Th is is largely due to the the fl eet segment in slump in new car sales from 2008 onwards, Ireland need to evolve? which has led to a lack of supply of good 2-5 How? year old stock. Th e knock on eff ect of this for the fl eet sector right now is strong residual MR In short, values. But a slight note of caution should be yes, as with all markets FLEETCAR | Summer 2014 APOLOGIES...APOLOGIES...

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AWARDS | 9 assessed not just the Best B2B Awards! driving experience Cathal Doyle, Deputy Editor, Fleet Car magazine welcomed guests of each car, but to the 2014 Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards. focussed on the brand’s fl eet policies his is the third and strategies, and running of the 2014 their commitment T Motorcheck.ie Fleet to meeting the needs Car Awards, and it seems of fl eet buyers, while like only yesterday since the other criteria such inaugural event in 2012, it’s as residuals and BIK fantastic to see it grow year were also taken into on year, with 2014 our biggest account. awards to date. Thanks to Why have Fleet Car awards? Motorcheck.ie for When we started in 2012, our their continued aim was to highlight what is support of the Fleet a hugely important part of Car Awards, and for the new car market - one which accounts for nearly half of all new being such proactive Cathal Doyle, Deputy Editor, Fleet Car magazine cars registered, and to acknowledge the eff orts of manufacturers in partners in running achieving success in this sector. the programme. As you may already know, Motorcheck.ie is the leading resource for car Secondly, unlike other awards that focus on models launched in the and vehicle data in Ireland. (See interview with Motorcheck.ie M.D. past year, the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards are open to all cars Michael Rochford on page 6). currently on sale within the designated sectors. Just because a car has been around for a litt le while doesn’t mean that it isn’t the best in Our appreciation is also extended to our other sponsors, Enprova, Avis a sector, something the Fleet Car Awards acknowledge. Fleet Services, efl ow, Applegreen Low Fuelcard, the Health & Safety Authority and Advancedrive Diagnostics all of which have made it Th irdly, the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards are the only business to possible to run today’s event. A big thank you also to our judges who put business awards for the fl eet sector in Ireland, and an event like this is in a busy two days last month test driving the shortlisted contenders, an excellent opportunity to meet relevant people within the industry, for their commitment and thoroughness in deciding on the category with motor manufacturers and distributors, the fl eet and leasing sector, winners. Special thanks to the Automotive Team in helping out with and other related businesses all represented. the logistics.

So what’s new for the 2014 Awards? As mentioned already, this year’s At the Drive to Fitness Safety Forum, Professor Desmond O'Neill and event is the biggest to date, with no fewer than 38 cars shortlisted. Mark Dodd provided some very interesting and thought provoking Two new categories have been added for 2014 to bett er refl ect the information relating to the topic 'Drive to Fitness for the Professional changing face of the fl eet sector. Firstly there is an award for C-Segment Driver'. We tend to associate the term professional with truck and bus Premium cars catering for the growing range of new compact executive drivers but the issues and concerns associated with such drivers are saloons and hatchbacks, while also new is a Crossover category. Many equally applicable to fl eet car drivers who spend many hours behind user choosers are now opting for cars in this segment instead of more the wheel each day. We thank them for their valuable contributions. traditional C or D segment cars. Finally, I’d like to wish all of this years contenders and Award winners In determining what cars were successful in today’s awards, judges continued success. Winners one and all at the 2014 Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards

erman, Japanese, Swedish and Korean brands excelled at and implementation of a national framework for standards in traffi c the 2014 Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards announced at medicine in Ireland. “While many factors contribute to road safety, a Carton House, Maynooth. Th e winners were presented driver’s health is an important consideration,” said the Professor. Called with their trophies at the third running of the only Irish Gawards programme dedicated to the corporate car sector. Organised by Fleet Car magazine, the Presentation Luncheon also featured a Drive to Fitness Safety Forum highlighting issues that can improve the wellbeing of the professional car driver. All of the contenders gained further exposure with TV cameras from Frame Productions broadcasting the event.

Representatives from Ireland’s automotive brands were present at the event together with delegates from the fl eet/corporate car sector. They were informed of the new on-line self-analysis programme developed for professional drivers presented by Mark Dodd, M.D. Advancedrive, while Professor Desmond O’Neill gave a unique insight into the science behind Traffi c Medicine for the Professional Driver. As Programme Director, Professor O’Neill is responsible for leading the development www.ﬂ eetcar.ie 10 | AWARDS

Mark Richardson Professor O’Neill

Sláinte agus Tiomáint, the new fi tness to drive guidelines which contain UK of late, so this award was no surprise, particularly with the development medical standards to guide the health assessment of drivers for licensing of its new diesel drivetrain. purposes. Another new class catered for was the increasingly popular Crossover Automotive industry consultant, Mark Richardson, M.C. for the event segment in which the new Nissan Qashqai took the honours while the presented some interesting fi gures relating to the sector, including that Hyundai i40 Tourer and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate were successful 53% of all new cars purchased are supplied through a fl eet management in the two Estate categories. Th e popularity of the Qashqai in the fl eet company. “While the main average fl eet size is 1 to 5 cars taking up 64% sector is becoming more evident with its high score awarded by the judging of the marketplace, 22% have 6 to 15 passenger vehicles in their fl eet,” panel. Fleet buyers will take note of the good performance from the Mazda said Mark. He went on to outline the leading brands purchased by these CX-5 in this competition. Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz were also among companies with Volkswagen and Ford leading the combined car and the fi rst time winners in the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards with the i40 van marketplace, and Audi and BMW the main brands in the Premium Tourer selling well in the fl eet arena and the new E-Class Estate, especially category, with 12% and 11% of the marketplace respectively. On the with the diesel hybrid an interesting option in the Executive sector. regional spread, the Dublin area dominates as expected with 33% of the fl eet car market with the rest of Leinster on 27%. “Interestingly, Munster Th e awards were sponsored by car history and automotive data experts commands 25%,” stated Mark. Motorcheck.ie. “We are delighted to be involved as title sponsor of the Fleet Car Awards again this year. Th e fl eet sector is such an important A hat-trick of wins were recorded by two car brands with the Volkswagen part of the Irish motor trade and these awards are a fi tt ing recognition of Golf and BMW 5 Series retaining their respective titles in the C-Segment this fact,” said Michael Rochford, Managing Director of Motorcheck.ie. and Executive categories for the third year in a row. “If there was a prize for Michael mentioned during his presentation that approximately 40% of all the overall winner, the Volkswagen Golf would take this title with 2,333 new car registrations are in a company name. He also gave a brief insight points,” stated Cathal Doyle, Deputy Editor, Fleet Car magazine, “With into how his company evolved from a fl eet supplier to developing into a the Mazda 6 coming in second on 2259 points with the BMW 5 Series data services provider that covers Registration Statistics, Residual Value taking third place.” Noteworthy in the Executive class was the high scoring Analysis and its Annual Fleet Study. Additional sponsors supporting the Lexus GS which means that there is a role for petrol/electric hybrids in the day’s event included Health & Safety Authority, Advancedrive Diagnostics, corporate car segment especially for drivers based in urban centres. Enprova, efl ow, Avis Fleet Services and Applegreen.

Newcomers in the C-Segment, the Mazda 3 and Honda Civic impressed Cathal Doyle, Deputy Editor, Fleet Car magazine; commented post the judging panel by fi lling the remaining steps of the podium in that ceremony that each category was a close run thing and that the newcomers category. In the newly established C-Segment Premium class the Audi have made a signifi cant contribution in maintaining the high standards A3 Saloon was run close by the new Mercedes-Benz CLA, with the Volvo set since the awards were established three years ago. “Th e Motorcheck. V40 not too far behind. ie Fleet Car Awards are like no other in that so many aspects of the car in contention is under consideration such as Static Review, Driving Th e Mazda 6 also retained its crown in the highly competitive D-Segment Impressions, Drivetrain Effi ciency, Driver Comfort, Interactive & Safety with the latest Volvo S60 stamping its authority in the Premium D-Segment, Technology, Residual Values and Aft ermarket Service,” explained Cathal. winning its fi rst award. One of the surprise packages of this year’s awards He also thanked the adjudication panel consisting of user choosers in was the latest Peugeot 508 making a big impact in the D-Segment. Volvo’s the fl eet car industry for their invaluable input throughout the selection success in the D-Segment follows on from similar awards presented in the process.

Michael Rochford, Motorcheck.ie Mark Dodd, Advancedrive Diagnostics

FLEETCAR | Summer 2014 AWARDS | 11 C-Segment: C-Segment Premium: Volkswagen Golf Audi A3 Saloon

Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie; Paddy Comyn, Volkswagen Group Ireland; Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie; David Bannon, Audi Ireland; Cathal Cathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car magazine. Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car magazine. What the Judges said: What the Judges said: • Driver Comfort and ergonomics were highly praised. • Stylish newcomer has desire appeal. • Driver info displayed and presented in a simple manner. • Very smooth and comfortable to drive. Economical too. • High demand in second life generates good residuals. • Continues the Premium brand’s strong presence in the fl eet sector. D-Segment: D-Segment Premium: Mazda 6 Volvo S60

Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie; Tony Howarth, Mazda Motor Ireland; Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie; Patricia Greene, Volvo Car Ireland Limited; Cathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car magazine. Cathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car magazine. What the Judges said: What the Judges said: • Second win in a row for this Japanese model. • New eco-effi cient drivetrain impressed most. • Excellent driveability and good passenger room. • New S60 already acknowledged by the fl eet sector in UK. • Availability of a dedicated fl eet spec is another plus. • Swedish marque features strongly with safety equipment. Crossover: Estate: Nissan Qashqai Hyundai i40 Tourer

Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie; Declan Hickey, Nissan Ireland; Cathal Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie; Darragh Brennan, Hyundai Cars Ireland; Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car magazine. Cathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car magazine. What the Judges said: What the Judges said: • Th e new Sports Utility that everyone wants. • Att ractive styling and design is an eye-catcher. • Used models att ract high residuals. • Korean brand’s fi rst true entry into fl eet sector. • New model is bigger, bett er and more economical. • Good back-up provided at national level through broad network.

www.ﬂ eetcar.ie 12 | AWARDS Estate Premium: Executive: Mercedes-Benz E-Class BMW 5-Series

Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie; Ciaran Allen, Mercedes-Benz; Cathal Michael Rochford, M.D. Motorcheck.ie; Austin Behan, BMW Group Ireland; Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car magazine. Cathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car magazine. What the Judges said: What the Judges said: • First award for the German Premium brand in this programme. • Hat-trick of wins in this category for BMW. • Hybrid version appraised impressed most. • In demand by top management in the corporate car arena. • Spacious, strong, reliable and functional estate. • Introduction of the 518d model has generated additional interest.

Each Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2014 Results C-Segment C-Segment - Premium Contender well 1 Volkswagen Golf 2,333 1 Audi A3 Saloon 2,193 2 Mazda 3 2,154 2 Mercedes-Benz CLA 2,150 scrutinised 3 Honda Civic 2,103 3 Volvo V40 2,015 Sixteen car brands contested for eight 4 Hyundai i30 2,016 category prizes in the third running of the 5 Kia cee’d 2,010 2014 Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards. From the long list of over 100 nominated D-Segment D-Segment - Premium cars that have entered the marketplace in the past two years, the expert judging 1 Mazda 6 2,259 1 Volvo S60 2,150 panel, consisting of 9 members from 2 Hyundai i40 2,162 2 Audi A4 2,144 the corporate car leasing industry and representatives from the fl eet and fi nancial 3 Peugeot 508 2,085 3 BMW 3 Series 2,131 sectors fi nalised a 38 car shortlist. All of the 4 Opel Insignia 2,037 4 Volkswagen CC 2,108 fi nalists were then individually assessed 5 Ford Mondeo 2,031 during a two-day appraisal programme. 6 Toyota Avensis 1,957 Each car was thoroughly scrutinised relating to driving performance, plus their Crossover Estate fi nancial and practicality aspects. “Marks 1 Nissan Qashqai 2,254 1 Hyundai i40 Tourer 2,240 were also given to the brand’s fl eet strategy 2 Mazda CX-5 2,215 2 Skoda Octavia Combi 2,219 parallel to the car’s styling, quality build, equipment levels that include safety items 3 Ford Kuga 2,082 3 SEAT Leon 2,154 and their residual values,” explained Cathal 4 Hyundai ix35 2,055 4 Mazda 6 Tourer 2,094 Doyle, Deputy Editor, Fleet Car. 5 Kia Sportage 2,002 5 Opel Insignia Sports 1,990 Tourer “Th e comprehensive Assessment Form fi lled out by each member of the judging 6 Opel Mokka 1,857 panel had two main sectors,” added Cathal. “Section 1 the Static Review had to be Estate Premium Executive completed before the car was driven, as 1 Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2,210 1 BMW 5 Series 2,287 it covered the car’s overall design both Estate from exterior and interior view points, 2 BMW 5 Series Touring 2,196 2 Lexus GS 2,237 while Section 2 consisted mainly of the 3 Volvo V60 2,105 3 Audi A6 2,234 driving impressions with the fi nal point allocated to the car’s reputation in the 4 BMW 3 Series Touring 2,039 4 Mercedes-Benz 2,224 highly competitive fl eet sector.” E-Class 5 Volvo S80 2,179 Points allocated out of a total of 3,000 marks

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* Compared to the average performance of three leading competitors. Braking distance on wet surface from 80km/h to 20km/h. Tested by TÜV SÜD Automotive in Sep–Oct 2011 by order of Goodyear Dunlop. TYre size: 215/65R16 98H; Test car: VW Tiguan 2.0 TDI; Test locations: Mireval (FR) and Garching (D); Report nr. 76247158 14 | LAUNCH PAD I Kia’s more reﬁ ned Soul n all-new version of the 128bhp that returns a combined Kia Soul has gone on sale. fuel consumption of 5.0 l/100 km Available in two trim levels (56.5 mpg) and has CO emissions A 2 it’s priced from €24,495. of 132 g/km.

Th e new 2014 Soul is built on an all- Standard specifi cation on the entry new platform it shares with the cee’d. level EX includes 17” Alloy Wheels, It’s 29% more torsionally rigid than Bluetooth, Cruise Control/Speed the old car thanks to use of ultra-high Limiter, climate control automatic strength or high strength steel on 66% air con, digital radio and rear view of the body shell. camera .

Longer by 20 mm and with a Th e Platinum models cost €4,000 wheelbase extended by 20mm, the more (€28,495) and adds 18” Alloys, new Soul is also 15mm wider and 10mm lower shoulder room. Refi nement levels are up too sat nav, leather upholstery with heated front than before. It retains the distinctive familiar with higher quality materials throughout, seats, electrically adjustable drivers seat, silhouett e of the outgoing car, nonetheless and greater sound proofi ng compared to the panoramic sunroof and an Infi nity sounds all the exterior body panels are new. Th e outgoing Soul. system. increased dimensions provide for a more spacious cabin with bett er head, leg and Just one engine is off ered, a 1.6 litre diesel with New Mercedes-Benz C-Class to shake up mid- range executive fl eet car sector he executive fl eet car market 7G automatic while permanent all- is set to get a welcome boost wheel drive is also available. A new T with the arrival of the new suspension system can be adjusted Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which has electronically, with air suspension just gone on sale in Ireland. on front and rear axles available as an option. Th ree design and equipment lines are off ered – an Avantgarde version with Th e new C-Class has an 80mm grille-inset star aimed at younger longer wheelbase, 95mm longer buyers; an Exclusive version with a body and 40mm wider frame, and distinctive bonnet-mounted standing is notably 100kg lighter than the star aimed at the more conventional old car. buyer; and an AMG line aimed at the sporty buyer. powered options, a C180 1.6 litre with 156bhp Technolog y features include priced at €37,750, and a C200 2.0-litre, 184bhp infotainment display, interactive touchpad A C220CDI diesel-powered 2.2-litre with version at €39,500. and apps that give the driver online access to 170bhp is available from launch priced from all forms of route planning, guidance, weather €43,300. Th e fl eet-friendly diesel emits 103g/ The full range will include BlueTEC and traffi c information. A new ‘head-up’ km of CO2, and returns fuel consumption of diesels as well as a C300 Diesel Hybrid. display system can project data directly on 4-litres/100km. It is joined by two petrol- Transmission options are a 6-speed manual or to the windscreen. Skoda highlights benefi ts of 4WD head of the launch of just snowy or icy conditions where the new Octavia Scout 4WD is of benefi t. At a recent A in September, Skoda event in Austria, Fleet Car was has taken the opportunity to shown fi rst hand the advantages highlight the benefi ts of 4WD, that all-wheel drive cars can have available across a range of its on wet summer roads, while the models. ability of the Yeti 4x4 to climb and descend impossibly steep gravel Th e harsh winters of 2010 and tracks was equally impressive. 2011 saw sales of 4WD cars soar as drivers struggled to complete The company highlights the journeys on icy and snowy roads. benefits of the Haldex clutch That all seems to have been that features on its 4WD models. forgott en though on the back of An electronically-controlled consecutive mild winters. Skoda With a range that includes 4WD versions of the multi-plate clutch, it enables reports that sales of its 4WD cars halved in Yeti, Octavia and Superb, Skoda is well placed proportional distribution of drive between 2013 compared to 2012, with a similar fall to meet the needs of any motorist that needs front and rear axles, with the all-wheel-drive being forecast for this year. the added assurance and grip of all-wheel system constantly assessing the ideal driving traction. Th e company points out that it isn’t torque for the rear axle. FLEETCAR | Summer 2014 Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fl eet.ie FROM €24,995

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opel.ie )XHOHFRQRP\ONPXUEDQ±H[WUD±XUEDQ±FRPELQHGùJXUH±&2HPLVVLRQVJNP±JNP 16 | LAUNCH PAD I Outlander PHEV redeﬁ nes electric vehicle ﬂ exibility he new Mitsubishi Outlander the electric motors still provide the PHEV which has just been power to the wheels, but the petrol T launched in Ireland is engine acts as a generator to charge possibly one of the most signifi cant the electric motors. Th e third mode model launches of the year. A plug-in is Parallel Hybrid Drive where the electric hybrid crossover SUV, it uses petrol engine provides most of the a mixture of a pair of 60kW electric power to the wheels, aided by the motors to power the front and rear electric motors. Further charge is axles together with a 121 PS 2.0 litre provided to the batt eries by the use petrol engine to provide permanent of regenerative braking. Using rapid 4WD and a total combined range of charging stations, the Outlander 824km. PHEV can be charged to 80% in 30 minutes. Crucially the Outlander PHEV is competitively priced, starting at By conventional engine standards, €41,950, just €2,000 more than the fuel consumption and emissions regular Outlander diesel. Two trim levels, engine allows the Outlander PHEV to be are very impressive, the Outlander PHEV

Intense+ and Instyle are off ered. powered in a number of ways. EV Drive is the emitt ing just 44 g/km of CO2, and using completely electric mode off ering a range of 1.9l/100km of fuel. Combining the electric motors and petrol approximately 52km. In Series Hybrid mode Estate adds to Peugeot 308 appeal eugeot has broadened the (88mpg). appeal of its new 308 with P the arrival of a stylish estate There’s also a rather impressive version, the 308 SW and impressive new 3-cylinder petrol unit. Despite new petrol and diesel engines. a capacity of only 1.2 litres, the e-THP power plant from Peugeot’s By extending the wheelbase by 11cm PureTech 3-cylinder range performs compared to the hatchback Peugeot like a much bigger unit thanks to a has created one of the most capacious high revving turbo that off ers the boots of any estate, off ering 590 litres kind of mid-range grunt that you of fl at fl oor space, while a further normally associate with a diesel. 70 litres is available below the fl oor Two versions with 110bhp and boot. Th e rear seats fold completely 130bhp are available. fl at giving an overall maximum load Available in three trim levels, new Euro 6 volume of 1775 litres. Rear seat passengers 1.6 litre diesel engines with 100 and 120bhp Off ered with three trim levels, prices have yet are bett er catered for too, with an extra 29mm have been introduced, while a 150bhp 2.0 to be announced ahead of the 308 SW going of legroom to stretch out in compared to the litre version will also be off ered. The 120bhp on sale this July. hatchback. version is particularly parsimonious with a combined cycle figure of 3.2l/100 km Volkswagen unveils all-new Passat he wraps have come off Fuel consumption fi gures and

the all-new Volkswagen CO2 emissions are lowered by T Passat. The 8th up to 20 percent, with all models generation of the popular family equipped with a stop-start system and fl eet car will go on sale in and a regenerative braking mode. Ireland in January 2015 in saloon Weight saving features strongly, and estate versions. with the new car weighing up to 85kg less than the outgoing model, Having accounted for sales of while for the fi rst time the Passat nearly 22 million units since will be available with a plug-in the fi rst generation Passat was hybrid drive that develops power launched in 1973, the model series of 211PS. has been the Volkswagen Group‘s number one seller with up to New technologies available in the 1.1 million Passat cars sold Passat include City Emergency annually. Braking with Pedestrian with a power output of 240PS will be the Monitoring, Trailer Assist, Traffi c Among the headline features of the new Passat most powerful diesel in the line-up while Assist and Emergency Assist, while it becomes are a range of 10 direct injection turbocharged returning fuel consumption of 5.3 l/100 km the fi rst Volkswagen with an Active Info petrol and diesel engines meeting Euro 6 (53.3mpg). Display and Head-Up Display. LED headlights emissions standards and covering a power will be standard on Highline models. range from 120PS to 280PS. A new TDI FLEETCAR | Summer 2014 Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@ﬂ eet.ie www.renault.ie THE RENAULT RANGE – DESIGNED FOR PEACE OF MIND

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Models shown Clio R-Link with 17" alloy wheel option 1.2 RRP from €18,890, Mégane Dynamique 1.5dCi RRP €21,990 and Fluence R-Link dci95 RRP €23,990. Prices exclude metallic paint, delivery and dealer-related charges; maximum recommended dealer delivery charge €600. Finance example: Clio Expression 1.2 RRP €14,990. Deposit €5,160. 36 monthly payments of €149. Optional Final Payment €5,951. Total cost of credit €1,635, including doc & completion fee of €75 each. APR 6.9%. Excess mileage plus excess wear-and-tear charges may apply upon return of vehicle. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms & Conditions apply, see www.renault.ie. Warning: You will not own these goods until the ﬁnal payment is made. 18 | FLEET TESTS MMotoringotoring NirvanaNirvana aatt MMillbrook’sillbrook’s SSMMTMMT DDayay

Maserati Gibhli & Jaguar

hort of gett ing the chance to tackle Organised by the Society of Motor potent. Th e Maserati Gibhli S followed by a rally stage, few of us get the Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the the Bentley Continental GT Speed provided opportunity to drive a normal annual open day for the motoring press a suitable mix of glamour and performance. road secure in the knowledge that presents a truly mouth-watering selection of Th ey’re both big heavy cars though, and on Swe won’t meet traffi c coming the other way. cars to be tried out. Th e 2014 event saw 39 the twisting Millbrook hill course needed to Which was why the opportunity to test manufacturers and over 150 diff erent vehicles be treated with respect. By comparison, the drive a huge selection of cars ranging from represented, with everything from a one litre Audi S8, the performance version of Audi’s electric vehicles to super cars, and including Ford Fiesta to the Rolls Royce Phantom fl agship A8 showed just how competent and some classics along the way was one not to and McLaren 650S on off er. Diff erent test fast a big saloon can be, with an awe-inspiring be turned down. tracks were available depending on the car mix of acceleration, grip and handling. - a Land Rover Defender’s natural terrain is Th e location was Millbrook Proving Ground somewhat diff erent to Porsche 911 Turbo’s Next up, a trip to times past courtesy of a in Bedfordshire, situated some 65 kilometres for instance. selection of historic and near-historic vehicles. north of London. Comprising over 700 acres A 1995 Toyota Rav4, the original of the species of extensive tracks and laboratories, the Deciding what to drive with such an enticing was only a mild warm-up, and, rather dated facility works with companies from a range line-up was the challenge. While it would be all dash besides, didn’t feel anything like its near of sectors including automotive, transport, too easy to spend the day driving exotica, it was 20 years age. In comparison a 1974 Mitsubishi energy and defence to deliver engineering, important to get a feel for a cross-selection of Lancer was a defi nite reminder of how times testing and development solutions. Founded in the latest products and technologies. I decided have moved on. Although surprisingly easy to the sixties by Vauxhall and Bedford, over the to start at the green end of the spectrum with drive, equipment levels were spartan to say the years it has been continually developed and the BMW i3 REX and Mitsubishi Outlander least, and the way the 1.2 litre engine died on today forms an essential part of the Research PHEV. Th ese hybrid electric vehicles off er even the slightest incline is something we’ve & Development processes for many vehicle diff ering solutions to addressing the big issue forgott en, with even the most humble engine manufacturers. Th e extensive network of roads of range anxiety. I also tried the Volkswagen today off ering way more power and torque. represents everything from twisty country e-Up!, a pure electric car that makes a lot roads to surfaces designed to test suspensions of sense if your driving is limited to city Perhaps one of the disappointments of the to destruction to a high speed bowl, where, if journeys. day was a run in a 1970’s Chevrolet Corvett e your car is set up right you can lap the circuit Stingray C3. Th is archetypical American at 100mph without putt ing your hands on the Right, having done my bit for the environment muscle car looked and sounded great, but steering wheel. it was time to try something a litt le more proved to be incredibly poor handling and actually rather slow in spite of its 5-litre V8 engine. In comparison, a 1971 Jaguar E-Type, long a favourite of mine, proved every bit as good as I had hoped. Sitt ing behind that gorgeous long nose, cruising at 100mph on the high speed bowl, it felt every bit as stable as any of the modern cars. A true classic in every sense of the word.

Of the modern performance cars the Mercedes- Benz SL 63 AMG looked and sounded great, but it was the McLaren 650S Coupe that redefi ned my interpretation of fast - even if a thunderstorm when driving it meant a heft y degree of caution.

But top of the list of all the vehicles driven that day? A Mercedes-Benz Actros tractor unit and trailer. Yes, it’s hard to beat those big trucks to truly make you feel King of the Road.

FLEETCAR | Summer 2014 FLEET TESTS | 19

Jaguar E-Type Bentley Continental GTC

Rolls Royce Phantom Volkswagen Golf

Land Rover Defender 90 Maserati Gibhli

McLaren 650S GT3 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@ﬂ eet.ie www.ﬂ eetcar.ie 20 | TEST I Ford strikes forward with EcoSport and Courier Ford's new Courier Tourneo & EcoSport ord is about to introduce the second member of its As we headed towards the most westerly point in Mainland Europe, expanding SUV family with the launch of the EcoSport EcoSport moved comfortably but as the 90PS 1.5 litre lacked enough compact crossover. Slott ing into the market under the power to drag it around the hilly sections without numerous gear Kuga, EcoSport is another example of the One Ford changes, the ‘Sport’ element to its name was a bit ambitious. Th ere are Fglobal strategy. Th is 5-door Sports Utility made in India is already plans to give this unit more power next year when new EU legislation a success in South America and Asia. Its target market is centred comes in. Other than that, the seating position and visibility was towards senior drivers, many of which were Fusion model owners good. However, there is a question mark about same for occupants of that require a higher vehicle for convenient ingress and egress. the back seat as the body curve on the rear doors raise sharply in line Another customer profi le that the marketing team will focus on is with the body styling. Pricing for the EcoSport has changed of late young and upwardly mobile couples looking for something diff erent with the political unrest in India and the devaluation of its currency. before moving on to more family oriented cars. Th is means a bett er price point for att racting new customers. While the EcoSport will serve at the lower end of the SUV market, the new For the European market, some modifi cations have been made to Edge, its larger American cousin will top the range when it lands over make the EcoSport more European following the press reviews by here soon. journalists. Changes to the clutch provide a more car like feel while the specifi cation of a new tyre manufacturer (other than Indian) has Although less time was spent on board the new Courier Tourneo, helped to improve grip, ride and handling. this compact people carrier based on the Transit Courier impressed most. Sadly, this passenger version is not coming to Ireland, there is Just two engines from Ford’s vast portfolio will adequately cover a 5-seat Kombi commercial, which is closely related to the Tourneo. customer requirements, the 1.0 litre 125PS EcoBoost petrol and the Everything fi ts in nicely around the driver, and for those familiar 1.5 litre TDCi 90PS diesel. Featuring Ford’s latest styling traits, i.e., with driving Fords, the Courier meets all expectations. It drives and grille design and interior seen elsewhere in other models, one stand handles beautifully and the 1.6 litre TDCi with 95PS and 5-speed box out feature is the storage of the space wheel on the rear door. Th is was bett er balanced than the EcoSport. Again the Titanium trim level helps to provide more boot space. was specifi ed here and contained a long list of driver and passenger comfort and safety enhancements such as Auto Start/Stop, TPMS, Leading up to the UEFA Champions League Final in Lisbon, the last of Ford SYNC and SatNav with USB connectivity, auto lighting system, Ford’s 22 year involvement with the annual tournament, we were given heated windscreen, rear view camera and rear parking aid. Don’t expect the chance to drive the EcoSport along Portugal’s scenic coastline. Spec that the Kombi will have all these but the basic car with 5 seats will on this vehicle was high as the Titanium trim level featured a host of do the business in an economical and effi cient way. For Ireland the extras such as auto headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, auto dimming rear Kombi will have the 90PS 1.5 litre TDCi power unit. While the B-Max view mirror, cruise control, rear parking sensors, sunroof, 16” alloys and C-Max caters for Ford’s people carrier clientele, the Kombi will and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and of course, Ford generate interest from the business user that needs to move stuff , etc SYNC infotainment multi connectively programme. Th e drivetrain and gain the benefi ts of VAT rebate and on fuel used also. on the 1.5 litre TDCi included a 5-speed manual transmission.

EcoSport interior

FLEETCAR | Summer 2014 Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@ﬂ eet.ie Leaders in real world fuel economy.

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* Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC. CO2 94g/km. Fuel consumption 3.6l/100km (78.5mpg). Honda CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC. CO2 119-124g/km. Fuel consumption 4.5-4.7l/100km (60.1-62.8mpg).

Honda Civic. Highest real world fuel economy of any car tested in 2013. Honda CR-V. Highest real world fuel economy of any large SUV tested. 22 | TEST II Peugeot 308 Allure 1.6 HDi

eugeot is back in the limelight once more on both passenger with these comfort elements for the occupants, the owner/driver will car and commercial fronts. Th is Spring the French brand appreciate Peugeot’s fi ve-year peace of mind warranty. secured the coveted European Car of the Year 2014 title with the new 308 while the new Boxer van is in the running Th e new 308 has a lot going for it. Compared to the previous model, Pfor International Van of the Year 2015. In looking at the Peugeot the new 308 (note how the model number has not moved up to 309 range today, all of its cars are strikingly fresh from the 108, 208, for the next generation) is higher, has shorter overhangs, a lower 2008, 3008 and 5008, 508 and its latest arrival, the RCZ. centre of gravity and electric power steering, together with a new design suspension collectively providing improved handling and road Th e new 308 is the fourth Peugeot model to win the European Car holding. On the week’s running around all these att ributes came to award. It was described as ‘the epitome of style, elegance, effi ciency the fore. New 308 is tighter, bett er built and has a higher quality feel and innovation’. Fleet Car recently had the opportunity to drive it for all round. a week and was impressed. Since launch, demand for the new 308 has been phenomenal with Priced from €18,990 to €25,890 the new 308 certainly is an eye-catcher over 55,000 unit orders recorded. Th e range has expanded with the with its sleek look from nose to tail. Att ention is also paid to the 5-door SW station wagon which will appeal to the fl eet buyer and family hatch’s interior design with the touch control iCockpit screen. Version car customer. Both the Hatch and SW will have the new Peugeot driven was the range topping 1.6 eHDi 115bhp Allure with Stop/Start PureTech 3-cylinder 1.2 eTHP 130 turbo petrol engine which has a technology. While the entry-level access model has a good level of new fuel economy record travelling 1810 kilometres with one tank equipment fi tted as standard, such as cruise control, speed limiter, of fuel. Th at equates to 99.1 mpg/2.83 L/100 km. Our time in the bluetooth, air-con, ESP and LED daytime running lights, the Allure 1.6 HDi diesel brought 5.7 L/100 km. With future security in hand, as expected has lots more toys and gizmos. thanks to Chinese investment, Peugeot bosses are pleased with the progress of the company and its model ranges. For a start it has sports style front seats, electric folding door mirrors, auto electronic parking brake, electro-chrome rear view mirror, auto On receiving the 2014 European Car of the Year award Maxime Picat, headlamps and wipers, front fogs, rear parking sensors, hill assist, LED Peugeot Brand CEO declared; “With the new 308, we were convinced headlamps, 9.7” multifunction colour touch screen and 17” alloys. that we had achieved a leap in concept, technology and quality, and the Phew! Quite a line up there! In addition, new 308 sports the biggest award we received is in the name of all these that contributed towards boot in the segment at 470 litres. Passenger room is bett er also. Together the development of this model.”

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