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Renault Wind Review

Renault has breezed down a different road to its main competitor with the launch of its new baby convertible.

Peugeot has enjoyed reasonable success with its 207 CC, the drop-top version of its supermini, and before that with the pioneering 206 CC, but its French rival has taken a more bespoke route.

The Renault Wind is a sporty-styled two-seater complete with retractable hard-top that folds in 12 seconds and is packaged in a way that doesn’t eat into the 270 litres of boot space.

There are a choice of two engines, each accounting for around half of volume. The 1.2-litre 100hp unit driven here offers CO2 and economy of 145g/km and 44.8mpg, while the 1.6-litre 133hp alternative, costing £900 more than its less powerful sibling, returns 160g/km and 40.9mpg.

In the cabin, the Wind feels a little minimalist, which isn’t to say its cheap, but there are design elements such as the fabric door handles rather than the solid plastic ones you’d expect to find. There’s also little storage space, although the cabin is nicely laid out.

The way the door pillars swoop round to meet the roof leaves the driver feeling as if they are sat in a cocoon, and while it’s a pleasant feeling to be tucked away with the roof down, there is a hefty problem: that kicked-up door blocks the driver checking their blind spot over the shoulder on the motorway, which makes for unnerving driving. There’s also another problem: when you put the roof up or down, the windows drop too, but then stay open when the mechanism has finished, so the driver then has to manually raise each window. There’s a bit of rattle and shake caused by the loss of rigidity when you take the roof off as well, and the lack of a sixth gear means revs are high on the motorway.

However, the Wind is a strikingly cute and well-priced little two-seater with residual values sitting above average for Renault at 33.9%, according to KwikCarCost, which leads to a 42.7p per mile running cost for this example. As a perk car, it’s somewhere near the top of the Renault range in terms of appeal right now.

 

Renault Wind 1.2 TCe 100 Dynamique

P11D price                         £15,320

Model price range          £15,320-£18,200

Fuel consumption          44.8mpg

CO2 (tax)                             145g/km (18%)

BIK                                         20/40%

per month                          £46/£92

Service interval                                12,500 mls

Insurance (1-50)              group 16

Warranty                             3yrs/60,000 mls

Boot space                         270 litres

Engine size/power         1149cc/100hp

Top speed/0-62mph     118mph/10.5secs

On sale                                 July 2010

Score                                    7/10

Verdict Attractive car, but not  as polished as it could be

 

New BMW 520d Road Test

As part of its 520d Touring launch strategy, BMW offered BusinessCar the chance to drive an estate to London from its Munich headquarters.

The move was no doubt in part to illustrate how much better the new model is on long runs than its predecessor, which was the best driver’s car in its class by a mile, but lacked a little in ride quality as a result. After a 800-mile run across Europe, the report is an improved long-distance machine.

The experience dovetailed nicely into the arrival of my actual car – the saloon version. To save joining an already lengthening queue for the 520d, we took our SE spec model fresh from a spell as part of BMW’s demonstration fleet, which means it’s already run in with almost 2000 miles on the clock. Its origins also mean it’s more loaded with optional kit than is normal for our long-term test cars, with £5605 of stuff added to the standard spec.

The options fall into three categories: things we’d have wanted, things we could live without, and things it could be argued should be offered as standard, even if this is the cheapest model in the new 5-series range.

Firmly in the glad-we’ve-got-it section are the automatic aircon and heated front seats, given we’ll be running the car in the range of weather offered between now and next April, while the extremely expensive yet deeply impressive Business Advanced media pack includes navigation [1] , Bluetooth and BMW’s peerless ConnectedDrive system.

It’s surprising that 5-series drivers still have to pay for things like folding door mirrors or the USB audio interface, even in the entry model, while the very pricey yet at least semi-ineffectual Variable Damper Control system is joined in the box marked ‘would-have-been-happy-without’ by sun protection glass, the through-load system and various interior and exterior flourishes including admittedly comfortable £400 sports seats [2] that start to push the price way up, as well as an extra inch on the alloys – from 17 to 18 – for £665 [3].

The 520d will account for more than 70% of the range’s sales, and it’s a car that has already earned a 10/10 test report from this publication. I’m hoping prolonged exposure will enhance the appeal, and reveal more reason to love and respect what’s probably the king of the executive business cars.

 

The original article by Article by Paul Barker can be viewed at businesscar.co.uk All copyrights acknowledged

 

New Mondeo – Initial Review

The likes of BMW and Audi are increasingly encroaching into Ford’s sales heartland, but the Blue Oval is fighting back.

The Mondeo is already lauded as one of the most prestige-aping cars Ford has produced, but now the brand claims to have made a series of improvements to counter the German competition.

Ford’s executive design director Martin Smith said that the small alterations are designed to “improve the premium appeal and make it a car that can compete with the best Germany has to offer”. There are 1365 upgrades in total, including the new front grille and bonnet, new LED daytime running lights, side indicators incorporated into the mirrors, chrome detailing to the side, new rear bumper, LED rear lights, centre display, new fonts for the dashboard and an array of technology including lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, auto high beam and driver alert monitoring.

The revised looks aren’t a decisive change from the previous car, while the extra chrome trim gives the Mondeo an almost American look. Only the LED tail lamps are a massive clue to the new model’s identity.

Also on the list of new features is the 2.2-litre 200hp diesel engine. It joins the range a month after the facelifted car’s arrival in October, and is another example of Ford trying to compete with the prestige Germans by offering a high-power diesel. Costing £2750 more than the 163hp 2.0-litre and available only in the top Titanium Sport X trims the new unit is the most powerful diesel available in the sector from the volume players, and in manual form scrapes below the capital allowance writing-down boundary with CO2 emissions of 159g/km, which means a fuel economy figure of 47.0mpg.

Only available to sample on the launch event in estate form, the new engine is strong, especially in the higher gears, but doesn’t feel quite as quick as a 200hp diesel could, which is largely down to the Mondeo’s bulk – at 4784mm in length and 2092mm wide the estate is a hefty piece of kit.

Sensibly, Ford hasn’t meddled with the driving experience, which can only really be beaten by BMW and maybe Mercedes in this class.

The Mondeo’s big problem, now Ford has realigned prices to stop its cars being so expensive compared with its volume rivals, is the badge. It’s a noble aim to try and take on the likes of BMW and Audi, but the company car park prestige is never going to match them. That is a shame because on merit the Mondeo has a right to be battling the best-in-class. Realistically, however, badge-conscious drivers won’t abandon their 3-series or A4 for a Mondeo in serious numbers, no matter how good the car is. Instead, Ford will have to console itself with being up with the very best of the volume upper medium competitors.

For Contract Hire or Leasing Quotes on this vehicle please contact John on 07504 395787 or by email john@121vehicles.com

Ford Mondeo 2.2 TDCi 200hp Titanium Estate
P11D price	£28,245*
Model price range	£17,295-£28,245
Fuel consumption	47.0mpg
CO2 (tax)	159g/km (23%)
BIK 20/40% per month	£108/£217
Service interval	12,500 mls
Insurance (1-50)	group 28*
Warranty	3yrs/60,000 mls
Boot space (min/max)	549/1740 litres
Engine size/power	2179cc/200hp
Top speed/0-62mph	mph/8.3secs
On sale	October 2010
Score	8/10
Verdict	Well-managed minor refresh increases Mondeo’s already substantial appeal

Road Test by  Paul Barker, taken from businesscar.co.uk all copyrights acknowledged

Sinister Scam by Car Thieves, Please Read THIS

While driving on a rural end of the roadway on Thursday morning, I saw an infant carseat on the side of the road with a blanket draped over it.  For whatever reason, I did not stop, even though I had all kinds of thoughts running through my head.  But when I got to my destination, I called the Police and they were going to check it out. But, this is what the Police advised even before they went out there to check….

“There are several things to be aware of … gangs and thieves are now plotting different ways to get a person (mostly women) to stop their vehicle and get out of the car.

“There is a gang initiation reported by the local Police Department where gangs are placing a carseat by the road…with a fake baby in
it…waiting for a woman, of course, to stop and check on the abandoned baby.

“Note that the location of this carseat is usually beside a wooded or grassy (field) area and the person  — woman  — will be dragged into the woods, beaten and raped, and usually left for dead.  If it’s a man, they’re usually beaten and robbed and maybe left for dead, too.

DO NOT STOP FOR ANY REASON!!!

DIAL 9-9-9
AND REPORT WHAT YOU SAW, BUT DON’T EVEN SLOW DOWN.

“IF YOU  ARE DRIVING AT NIGHT AND EGGS ARE THROWN AT YOUR WINDSHIELD, DO NOT STOP TO CHECK THE CAR,  DO NOT OPERATE THE WIPER AND DO NOT SPRAY ANY WATER BECAUSE EGGS MIXED
WITH WATER BECOME MILKY AND BLOCK YOUR VISION UP TO 92.5%,  AND  YOU ARE THEN FORCED TO STOP BESIDE THE ROAD AND BECOME A VICTIM OF THESE CRIMINALS.

THIS IS A NEW TECHNIQUE USED BY GANGS, SO PLEASE INFORM YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES.

THESE ARE DESPERATE TIMES AND THESE ARE UNSAVORY INDIVIDUALS WHO WILL TAKE DESPERATE MEASURES TO GET WHAT THEY WANT.”

Please talk to your loved ones about this. This is a new tactic used.  Please be safe.

Get started NOW — SEND THIS MESSAGE TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES TO BE CAREFUL AND AWARE OF EVERYTHING AROUND THEM SO AS NOT TO BECOME A VICTIM.

You really can teach an “Old Dog” New tricks

This is a testimonial for Paul M Robson – “Softer Smarter Selling”

I am writing this recommendation for Paul Robson as a heartfelt thanks to the changes he has helped me make to my Business and therefore my personal life.

I sought the services of Paul after witnessing the transformation in a friend of mine who had also worked with Paul.

A few months ago I was at a significant crossroads in my life, and despite over 30 years of Sales & Management experience couldn’t see where I was going wrong, after only a few meetings with Paul, my business had taken an upturn, not only was I more focussed on the areas which needed improvement, I actually knew what they were.

After what is now a few months of working with Paul, Friends, Colleagues and Associates are seeing and commenting the difference Paul has made to me. Those that have known me for some years tell me I am the John they knew 15 years ago, focussed, driven, exciting and above all POSITIVE, and a pleasure to be around (although I am not sure how to take that comment!)

I can without reservation, recommend Paul Robson to you, if you listen to what he says to you and above all ACT on this advice, then you to will make the positive changes I have made.

If you are one of our competitors please disregard this advice!!!!”

You can contact me directly for Paul’s details

CV drivers must take responsibility for safety

Delivery drivers must take more personal responsibility to avoid attacks on themselves and their vehicles, according to solicitors Rothera Dowson.

The advice from transport lawyer Anton Balkitis at the Nottingham-based law firm comes after he noted increasing attacks on drivers and their vehicles, including thefts, freight robberies and personal attacks, experiences of which have led a number of drivers to seek medical and/or psychological attention.

Although some cases may attract Criminal Injuries Compensation, the amounts available under the tariff scheme are fixed and can be inadequate, with many cases resulting in no compensation being awarded.

Balkitis encouraged drivers to use secure truck parking areas and to make more use of protective devices including robust vehicle security technology.

Concerns over a rise in reported incidents is being addressed by the European Conference of Ministers and the International Road Transport Union, said Balkitis. In the meantime, he said: “Until there are more concrete measures in place on a practical level, drivers must take more personal responsibility. Drivers should also follow whatever guidance they are given by their employers and the various codes of practice available.”

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taken from businesscar.co.uk

Jaguar celebrate 75 years with new concept vehicle

The Jaguar XJ75.

The Jaguar XJ75 Platinum Concept is a one of a kind vehicle to demonstrate the potential of the striking new XJ luxury saloon and will go on display at the Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance Concept Car Lawn this weekend.

Its emphasis is firmly on styling with a striking white and black contrast theme to give a hint of platinum metal. It also includes a high performance 470hp 2011 Jaguar XJL supercharged equipped with front, rear and side sills as well as gloss pearlescent white air vents, veneers and diamond stitch suede inserts to the seats and headliner.

According to Jaguar XJ chief designer Giles Taylor, the aim is to produce striking proportions.

“From a pure design perspective, the XJ75 Platinum Concept is foremost about emphasising the striking proportion and presence of the new XJ, with a distilled black and white theme, which conjures up the sense of precious platinum,” he said. “At the same time, the pure sporting character of XJ is brought to the fore by keeping the car’s clean graphic approach and further lowering its stance.

“On the inside, we played up the XJ’s combination of high-end materials and British flair to really have some fun. The XJ75 Platinum Concept is a design exercise that shows our vision of customisation as an inspiration for those enthusiasts who have a taste for strong individuality and visual confidence in their luxury automobiles.”

Its performance statistics aren’t bad either – it comes with a 5.0litre supercharged direct injection V8 with 470hp and 424lb-ft of torque

Author: Paul Lucas, August 14, 2010

full article at contracthire&leasing.com

Nissan Leaf Road Test

Nissan’s Leaf will be the UK’s first practical-sized fully electric vehicle.

Due in spring next year, it will compete with the likes of the existing Toyota Prius hybrid along with Vauxhall’s range-extended Ampera and other emerging low-CO2 cars such as Toyota’s Auris Hybrid Synergy Drive.

Now that the coalition Government has confirmed the £5000 subsidy remains for electric vehicles (up to £43m until March 2012), the vehicle stays reasonably priced at around £24k.

The Leaf will take eight hours to charge fully overnight at your house, giving it a rang of 100 miles. However, alternative (and expensive) technology that is set to become more widely available at service stations will charge the car to 80% in 30 minutes for those on-the-go. Nissan acknowledges the car isn’t for everyone, for example, someone living in a top floor flat, but it believes it will suit 80% of people’s needs.

The Leaf, much like the Vauxhall Ampera (BusinessCar, 13 July), is near-silent at start-up while power is instantaneous despite the lack of any revs due to the electric engine.

It has plenty of power, too – apparently equivalent to a 1.6 110hp petrol car, although Nissan says torque matches a 2.5-litre V6. It’s not the most forgiving on B-roads but body control is good and steering responsive. The interior, which will have just one high-spec trim, will be available in a dark and light colour.

Along with satnav system, the touchscreen enables the driver to control when the car starts and finishes charging, and displays how much energy/miles are left. Charging points are highlighted on the map, and stations can be added if they don’t appear.

Below 12mph, the car, which is naturally extremely quiet, will make an audible sound to warn pedestrians in urban areas that it is passing.

The Leaf is a viable option for fleet drivers who don’t do countless long journeys. It’s a practical, affordable five-seater, five-door hatchback with zero-emissions – an excellent green message if ever there was one.

Reprinted from businesscar.com – all copyrights acknowledged

By Rachel Burgess

Fleet travel plummeting

13 August, 2010

Company cars mileage has fallen at a much faster rate than private vehicles, showing the dramatic impact the recession has had on businesses.

According to the latest annual DfT National Travel Survey, company-owned car mileage fell 8.1% between 2007, the start of the credit crunch, to 2009, from an average of 19,940 miles per vehicle to 18,380, while privately owned vehicle mileage only dropped 3.5% from 8260 to 7970 miles.

Business mileage, including grey fleet, is at its lowest for more than 15 years, with an average of 900 miles last year comparing with 1710 miles in 1995-1997, a drop of 47%. In contrast, private mileage over the 15 years hit rock bottom in 2006 at 4960 miles, and has since risen to 2009’s 5000 miles. This distinction between the business and private figures suggests mileage is less related to fuel increases, as this would impact private usage, and more to do with businesses curbing costs.

This conclusion is reinforced by figures which show personal mileage on company–owned cars has barely dropped: company-owned car business mileage fell from 8060 to 6590 miles between 2007 and 2009, accounting almost entirely for the overall dive in company-owned car mileage.

The proportion of fleet cars on the road has also declined steadily. From 1995-1997, 7% of cars were company-owned, while in 2007 5% were business cars. Last year, they accounted for 4% of drivers

Still, commuting and business trips represent 27% of all distance travelled and account for 18% of all trips made. However, commuting has fallen by 9% in the past two years. This could be attributed in part to working from home, which has risen from 3% of the workforce in 2007 to 5% in 2009.

While petrol cars are becoming greener, and therefore more economical for businesses, diesel vehicles still reign supreme, and travel on business 2070 miles on average, compared with 520 miles for petrol. This equates to a business utilisation factor of 18% and 7% for petrol.

Unsurprisingly, business drivers have the lowest occupancy rates, with 1.2 occupants per car for commuting and business compared with an average 1.6.

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Reprinted from BusinessCar – with acknowledgement to all copyrights