Low Cost Vans

As the guys at work know, I’ll take any opportunity to jump in one of our vans. I feel a lot more confident in the high driving position and of course it can be quite fun to peep into people’s gardens. And it seems that I’m not the only one that enjoys the birds eye view - SUVs now account for 24.4% of the total European market. But is the UK ready for this increase in popularity? Possibly not. Recent research by Accident Exchange links a 35% rise in minor prangs to SUVs. This is interesting when one of the reasons that they’re popular is due to a feeling of increased security… So is it because drivers are too busy being nosy in their high driving position? No, it’s because of parking bays! When those little square boxes were drawn up, cars were on average much smaller. The average UK parking bay is 4.8m long and 2.4m wide, but SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class are more than 5m long and nearly 2m wide. This causes all sorts of complications; their bottoms stick out onto the road ...

Although my number one passion is vans, I also love all things motor related too, especially SUVs. I just read the latest press release for one of the most anticipated car launches to date – Volvo’s all-new XC90 – begins today. When the original XC90 was launched in 2002, it was said to have revolutionised the SUV segment with its combination of space, versatility and safety. I really considered getting myself one of these seven-seater 4x4 SUVs quite a few years ago and thought they were a decently priced model. Of course, reason ruled over heart, as I had no need for seven seats (unmarried, no kids) or the off road features, so I went for a more practical option. But, when I saw news of a newly revised XC90, my interest was instantly piqued (I do have a few dogs now). So what do Volvo reveal about the new Swedish designed luxury SUV?  Volvo’s launch programme starts with teasing consumers by only providing us with a first glimpse of the luxurious car interior and will gradually conti...

Hyundai Motors has unveiled its new concept car, Intrado , for the first time at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. So what exactly is an Intrado? Hyundai says the new concept vehicle “ is a daring concept that shows Hyundai’s vision for future mobility ”. Hmm, that statement doesn’t quite give enough away, but upon further reading of Hyundai’s latest press release, the Intrado is a two-door Korean SUV that will meet our future mobility needs by way of advanced vehicle technologies and intelligent design working in harmony to better engage with not only the driver, but with passengers as well. Nope, still not sure what the vehicle is all about yet. Ok, perhaps Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Hyundai Motor Europe can shed more light. He says: “ Hyundai Motor’s vision is ‘lifetime partner in automobiles’, and Intrado truly embodies this thinking. We have looked to the future and the roles cars will play in our daily lives. Intrado is also a demonstration ...

Have you heard about Honda UK’s new special Black edition and White edition CR-V’s yet? Dubbed, ‘ The new head-turner from Honda’ , these have been enhanced with the addition of bold 19-inch Orion alloy wheels, exhaust finisher and privacy glass. Plus a new patterned front grille and a tailgate spoiler that extends the lines of the roof over the rear window, while front and rear skid plates add to the upgrades while protecting the underside of the car. Of course these special editions will come packed with the latest technology Honda has to offer such as; dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth HFT, front and rear parking sensors and power-folding door mirrors, plus metallic paint and satellite navigation. The pictures of these sleek new CR-V’s, provided in Honda’s latest press release, show just how smart and stylish they are. But, with a 5-Star Euro NCAP Overall Safety Rating and extensive safety options like the Advanced Driver Assist System, these vehicles offer more than a shiny new...

Japanese manufacturer, Mazda , has just announced that consumers will now have a choice of 20 upgraded Mazda CX-5 models. The Mazda CX-5 is an award-winning SUV, scooping the WhatCar? ‘Best Buy’ Large SUV under £25,000 accolade for a second year. The upgraded options include two new exterior colours, Blue Reflex Mica and Deep Crystal Blue Mica. A revised suspension is also offered on every model which features re-tuned dampers, bushes and stabilisers which improve driving dynamics, thus increasing ride comfort and reduced noise, vibration and harshness. Plus, Mazda are proud of their SKYACTIV technology which will be incorporated into these new models. SKYACTIV technology increases fuel efficiency and engine output. Mazda say, “ SKYACTIV means redefining everything, every major part of a car, from the engine to chassis and from the body to transmissions ”. Upgraded Mazda CX-5 models for 2014 will be priced from £21,595 to £29,595 (OTR). You can choose from 165ps petrol or 150/175ps die...

After another hugely successful Los Angeles Auto Show, one of the most anticipated vehicles comes courtesy of Ford . Ford unveiled its plan to bring the new large SUV Ford Edge Concept to Europe. The original is already a hit in the States, but Ford is gearing up to offer the European market a newer higher spec model, plus a comprehensive line-up of redesigned SUVs alongside the Edge which will include the new Kuga medium SUV and new EcoSport small SUV. So, what can those of us in Europe expect from this smarter yet driver friendly new vehicle? Ford describes the Ford Edge Concept as having a sleek and sporty appearance, an SUV with capability, fuel efficiency and technology that assist the driver. All of which will include advanced automated driving technologies such as; self-parking and obstacle avoidance systems and previews semi- and fully autonomous driving options. Externally, the Edge will have an athletic “muscular” appearance and feature a pretty cool new high-tech applicati...

SsangYong (meaning double dragons), the longest established Korean vehicle manufacturer, has just announced that it is adding a new low priced crossover model to its Korando range - the Korando SE. The SE features a higher level of equipment that would normally be found in more expensive cars, including Electronic stability programme (ESP) with Hill Start Assist, Active Rollover Protection (ARP) and ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). It also comes equipped with luxury touches including roof rails, tinted glass and rear parking sensors, while inside there are electric windows front and rear, a leather covered steering wheel and gear shift, air conditioning, cruise control and a Kenwood MP3 CD & RDS radio with iPod & Bluetooth, remote audio controls and six speakers.  “With a new and extremely affordable purchase price, a highly competitive PCP scheme on all models and a market leading 5 year limitless mileage warranty, there has never been a better time to purcha...

Exciting news from Land Rover has just been announced. The all-new Range Rover Sport will make its global premiere in a ground breaking live drive through Manhattan, New York on March 26th, the eve of the 2013 New York Auto Show's press preview day. The show opens to the public from March 29th to April 7th, 2013. This year marks the shows 113th anniversary and will have impressive sneak peeks, more brand new '13 & '14 production models and debut more concept vehicles than ever before. Land Rover says that the all-new Range Rover Sport, which happens to be the third Range Rover model to be launched in two years, is the fastest, most responsive and agile vehicle to date. Did you also know that more Sports are sold in New York than any other metropolitan area in the world and the model is North America’s best-selling Land Rover product? John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director, said: “The all-new Range Rover Sport takes the model to another level. It is Land Rover’s ...

Only a couple of weeks to go before the start of one of the most anticipated annual motor shows. March 7th is the official public opening of the 83rd Geneva International Motor Show. There promises to be many exciting exhibitions, world debuts, and concept unveilings galore from a host of major manufacturers. Audi has just announced that the world debut for the new 310PS Audi RS Q3 – the first ever Audi RS SUV is to take place at the 2013 Geneva Show. Audi's press release says, " the new Audi RS Q3 is the first ever Audi SUV to be handed over to the specialists at Audi high performance subsidiary quattro GmbH for the full, no-holds-barred RS transformation. One of the Audi stand stars at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show, the new 310PS, 155mph Q3 flagship is due to open for UK ordering in the summer ahead of first deliveries in late 2013 . At the heart of this RS pioneer is the characterful 2.5-litre TFSI engine familiar from the TT RS and RS 3 Sportback, linked exclusively to...

Things are heating up in the world of motors as more Geneva Motor Show concept debuts and official unveilings are announced. This week Subaru is promoting the unveiling of the VIZIV concept vehicle taking place at the 83 rd Geneva International Motor Show (5 – 6 March), representing Subaru’s future design direction and vision for technological innovation. VIZIV is described by Subaru as, "a future-generation crossover concept designed to embody the Subaru brand’s values of ‘Enjoyment and Peace of Mind". So what's with the unusual name? VIZIV is certainly a unique one and Subaru says the name VIZIV is inspired by the phrase ‘Vision for Innovation’ and expresses Subaru’s commitment to innovation across its range of All-Wheel Drive models. What do you think? It doesn't quite roll off the tongue easily, more like bounces off your upper two front teeth. I wonder if the name will resonate with buyers and streamline its way from concept to production. Subaru are also promot...

Renault just released details introducing their first urban crossover, Captur, based on the same platform as the New Clio. Most crossovers are described as vehicles that have the body of an SUV (or minivan), but are based on a car chassis thus making them lighter and smoother to drive. Although they may look similar to an SUV, they are not necessarily meant to tread heavily off road (if at all) due the much lighter platform. The crossover will likely become even more popular as more people who drive larger vehicles require not only more passenger space, but better fuel economy and these vehicles can offer that and more. Renault say that the Captur will stand out from the crowd by delivering the best of three different worlds; it will have the expressive styling and driving position of an SUV, the cabin space and modular interior of an MPV, and the agility and driving enjoyment of a compact hatchback .  Its original concept was debuted at last year’s Geneva Motor Show. I’m glad the actu...

The Dacia Duster has impressed not one, but two judging panels from two of the UK’s best-known magazines FHM and Top Gear, with FHM awarding it ‘Best for when you’re short on cash’. In their recent press release, Dacia describes the gruelling tests that the Duster had to perform in order to wow and win over the judges. Testing its talents to the limit as part of its ‘Bargain of the Year 2012’ award feature, the intrepid Top Gear team took a 4x4 version to one of the most dangerous roads in the world, the Cañón del Pato (Duck Canyon), in a Peruvian stretch of the Andes. Their simple conclusion? “No car in the world offers more freedom for your quid than the Dacia Duster.” We couldn't have put it better ourselves. After a dizzying trip ascending the narrow, dimly lit Peruvian roads, the plaudits continued with, “I’m pretty sure it nails the ride-handling balance better than cars at many times its price”. Or, simply, “we have subjected this simple, brilliant little car to punishment b...

Get ready for the all-new Subaru Forester, coming to the UK in summer 2013, with competitive pricing and improved fuel economy. This will be the fourth generation model with Subaru’s unique Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system remains at the heart of the vehicle, while a low centre of gravity and improved body rigidity contribute to improved refinement and a typically engaging drive on the road. Confirming the UK launch of the Forester, Subaru has also announced outline details of the engine line-up, which will include 150ps 2.0-litre Boxer diesel and petrol units, as well as a new 2.0-litre direct injection turbocharged petrol engine, producing 280ps. Both of the naturally-aspirated engines will feature a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) transmission is available on both petrol engines.  The Lineartronic transmission has been modified to manage the increased power while also providing improved fuel efficiency, and ensures that both CVT-equippe...

As winter nears, do you wish you had a 4x4 to tackle whatever weather Mother Nature throws at our roads? Getting your hands on one may cost a bit more this winter if you haven't already bought one. According to the latest figures from the vehicle auction company, British Car Auctions (BCA), new data from their press release this week showed that 4x4 values rose sharply in October, climbing by 16% as the first signs of winter appeared. And with long range forecasters suggesting the UK is in for a colder than average winter, 4x4 prices may continue to rise. The BCA had this to say in their release: Average 4x4 values rose to over £13,000 last month, a rise of £1,838 compared to September and well ahead of values recorded throughout the spring and summer months. Tim Naylor from BCA suggests now would be a good time to buy for anyone in the market for a 4x4, as prices may well rise further if the more severe conditions indicated by the Met Office take hold.* Naylor commented “There is ...

Just a quick post to inform you about the arrival of the all new RAV4. Toyota announced that they will unveil the new RAV4 at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show, prior to the launch of the car in the UK in early 2013. I am excited about this, as I am quite fond of RAV4's myself. Take note that a press conference will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 28, at 5.00pm GMT (9.00am PST) at the Toyota stand in the South Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Centre. To keep us well informed and to include a wider audience, Toyota's unveiling will be broadcast live via Livestream at: http://new.livestream.com/toyota . In addition to the press conference, a live interview with Toyota Division Group Vice President and General Manager Bill Fay will be broadcast live on Livestream from 7.30pm-8.00pm GMT (11:30 am to 12 pm PST) on Wednesday, Nov. 28. For further information on the all new RAV4, please visit Toyota's website here .

Subaru UK has announced in their latest press release that its compact crossover, the Subaru XV, has been named ‘SUV of the Year’ by 4x4 Magazine . Here are the details published on November 16, 2012 below: Putting the XV through its paces, both on- and off-road, 4x4 Magazine crowned the XV its class winner in one of the hardest-fought categories in a special ‘4x4 of the Year’ issue.  The SUV market has expanded rapidly in recent years with the proliferation of compact crossovers, and 4x4 Magazine placed Subaru’s latest All-Wheel Drive model ahead of key rivals from Audi, Kia, Mazda, Nissan and Volkswagen. The judging panel, comprised of members of the magazine’s editorial team, praised the XV’s ‘enjoyable’ and ‘involving’ drive, fuel economy and off-road ability.  Subaru’s industry-leading customer service package, Everything Taken Care of (ETCo), also helped tip the balance in the Subaru’s favour. Commenting on the XV’s victory, Nigel Fryatt, Editor, 4x4 Magazine, said: “The SUV clas...

  If you were asked to name which vehicle you consider to be the most reliable in the SUV/4x 4 categories, would a ŠKODA Yeti come to mind? I'm not sure I would say that either, but in a Which ? survey completed by owners of 47,000 vehicles, the petrol-powered model ranked number one in the SUV/4x4 classes with a 98% reliability score. And with the Yeti petrol receiving the highest total of any class winner, it was declared the overall champion with ŠKODA's diesel Yeti taking the 6th spot. “All the owners who gave feedback in our survey said they hadn’t suffered a single breakdown in the previous 12 months, and annual repair bills averaged just £6 a year,” the Which? magazine stated. Alasdair Stewart, Brand Director for ŠKODA UK, commented: “Reliability is at the heart of the ownership experience because what drivers value most is a vehicle that starts every morning like clockwork. ŠKODA has worked hard to make sure its cars are the best they can be and recognition from Whic...

Another exciting high class model is making their debut at the Moscow International Motor Show on Wednesday August 29, 2012. Land Rover has just announced that it has upgraded the Freelander 2 with new premium features, making it an even better all-terrain, multi-purpose vehicle. As with all models in the Freelander range, you will still get an economical range of diesel engines such as the 2.2-litre 150PS TD4 and 190PS SD4 with four-wheel drive. For extra economy, the 2.2-litre 150PS engine is also available in eD4 two-wheel drive form. Equipped with six-speed manual transmission and Stop/Start, the eD4 achieves an impressive 47.1mpg (6.0 L/100km) and CO 2 emissions of 158g/km. Jeremy Hicks, Land Rover UK Managing Director said: “In bringing the Freelander 2 right up-to-date, customers are now afforded more choice than ever before combined with new levels of luxury and technology. Fresh styling, generous amounts of standard equipment combined with Land Rover’s leading off-road capabi...

I have just read Honda's press release revealing details and pictures of their new British CR-V, built in their Swindon factory. The optional two or four wheel drive 2.0 i-VTEC petrol models and the 2.2 i-DTEC diesel CR-V are going to be available in October of this year. Honda says they considered the balance between car and SUV when designing aspects of the new styling. Exterior Designer Manabu Konaka explains: “The CR-V has always been a car for every occasion. It can be both casual and formal, but the appearance must always convey solidity and reliability.” They reduced the height and length, however, from the details they have released and from the pictures supplied, it still has plenty of room for luggage and can even fit your bicycles with ease. What makes the British SUV different from previous productions? Honda says: "The CR-V has been designed as a global car, but the European model features a number of exterior refinements developed specifically for this market. A ...