tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81088722024-03-18T03:03:04.846+00:00Irish Car+Travel MagazineUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger9535125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-81294600632270960852024-03-15T13:00:00.000+00:002024-03-15T13:00:37.604+00:00Volvo XC40 Recharge Review: Trish Whelan, Irish Car<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hyphenhyphen-zWOTUzWLBOXrCVg6jGBa18WWGw9mNsxPILwqIlUzJZNWyAmWsUVIawf-LuutBjEhPRBENpCd_lvPBp6GMg4N3M8d_4-UQHIpULFcgJhmy-xb-vBVDlPGi4AvbfePyE1ohsSJAk0IDc9LRcCUdIcj4U6cqnPbdQdQEQfakNtx7poWVEl074g/s4032/XC40-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hyphenhyphen-zWOTUzWLBOXrCVg6jGBa18WWGw9mNsxPILwqIlUzJZNWyAmWsUVIawf-LuutBjEhPRBENpCd_lvPBp6GMg4N3M8d_4-UQHIpULFcgJhmy-xb-vBVDlPGi4AvbfePyE1ohsSJAk0IDc9LRcCUdIcj4U6cqnPbdQdQEQfakNtx7poWVEl074g/w640-h480/XC40-front.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Volvo XC40 is a well designed, family-friendly 5-seater SUV that is a really useful and comfortable car to transport a family for their everyday use. <div><br /></div><div>My latest Volvo test drive was the XC40 Recharge Single Motor electric extended range variant, with a rated WLTP range of 556kms. Volvo cars expanded their all-electric XC40 Recharge compact SUV line-up in 2021 by adding the single motor version. It joined the dual-motor XC40 Recharge Twin that comes with all-wheel drive.
The car looks almost the exact same as its ICE and PHEV siblings, except for the blanked-off body colour front, as a grille is not needed in an electric car. I really like the 'Thor’s Hammer' headlights design, a distinctive feature on many Volvo models down the years, inspired by the Norse god Thor in a T-shaped LED. My car also had posh 20-inch diamond cut/black alloy wheels which looked the part and in-built roof rails. Front fog lights had a cornering function which I always appreciate.
Getting in and out for my tall 6.2-inch hubby was a lot easier than with many cars. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyNw2swdoy5he9my5HhRoFY-EIS1J6mvgSXDFfZ48mllz4liCfh_oGsD211r3VyFJwZD90hiu66-HUdFz4hEbf48sFuJW7swnu2_HyUS77SycJCkGmU5Ui3wmgscb7ejexrbGsItuzcp4l07W0Ev1Z4fnSRCnAr3TDDcZ0lwt7hQe8PhgfoBegA/s4032/XC40-interior.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHyNw2swdoy5he9my5HhRoFY-EIS1J6mvgSXDFfZ48mllz4liCfh_oGsD211r3VyFJwZD90hiu66-HUdFz4hEbf48sFuJW7swnu2_HyUS77SycJCkGmU5Ui3wmgscb7ejexrbGsItuzcp4l07W0Ev1Z4fnSRCnAr3TDDcZ0lwt7hQe8PhgfoBegA/w640-h480/XC40-interior.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The interior is far bigger than you’d expect from the outside and everything is nice and simple and of high quality. The tilt and slide panoramic power sunroof in my Ultimate spec XC40 extended the length of the cabin and provided lots of light. No leather is used in the interior, just beautiful sustainable materials for upholstery and trims. However, the interior was a bit on the dark side for my taste and needed a bit more silver or other light accents to brighten it up. At night, though, a panel on both front doors lit up to provide light relief. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDAXVCQ3Bvem5DBDgY1Dd3aLyCUa9CK5LTasCozDTElY-qciN8SMrXGPWgx9x2ufy9erMa5xImXhOMjvP0ye4BunI86W6x-f3C7LztAtWeNFp4BmaK-nf1Zq8bD03QokMxFf-vteP73lwkredaW6IOimCNq2PpYYKy9OvZQXG2rSZ5yPkHJPRBA/s4032/XC40-rear%20seats.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDAXVCQ3Bvem5DBDgY1Dd3aLyCUa9CK5LTasCozDTElY-qciN8SMrXGPWgx9x2ufy9erMa5xImXhOMjvP0ye4BunI86W6x-f3C7LztAtWeNFp4BmaK-nf1Zq8bD03QokMxFf-vteP73lwkredaW6IOimCNq2PpYYKy9OvZQXG2rSZ5yPkHJPRBA/w640-h480/XC40-rear%20seats.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Seats are hugely comfy, including lumbar support. Front ones had power adjustments, the driver’s had two memory seat and mirror settings. Front seats can be heated — ditto the steering wheel. People in the rear enjoy very good head- and leg-room, but, even though this is the all-electric version, there's a high transmission tunnel for the person in the middle seat to have to contend with. The two outer rear seats can be heated.
Boot capacity is 419 litres, expandable to 1,295 litres with rear seats folded to give a flat floor and no lip, making it easy to lift items over. The floor was covered with a removable rubber mat and had a small space below. My car had a power tailgate. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIXEgqeAHZvg99cpkzS6iUWkmuuv60B__97K8vmhaJv7gnol_0wEPUtnLtS-Vp9K0Ivo-jdjayXtfqw_Pv0vlwbafNtq8KI5axYEQCZ6fs1SAsaj5ri8wmoGCfk9JIqh4jzlqSLZHNVBterz8jl72_CebrZNmTRcaFcXue3L6RokXShs0LbUUMGA/s4032/XC40-boot.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIXEgqeAHZvg99cpkzS6iUWkmuuv60B__97K8vmhaJv7gnol_0wEPUtnLtS-Vp9K0Ivo-jdjayXtfqw_Pv0vlwbafNtq8KI5axYEQCZ6fs1SAsaj5ri8wmoGCfk9JIqh4jzlqSLZHNVBterz8jl72_CebrZNmTRcaFcXue3L6RokXShs0LbUUMGA/w640-h480/XC40-boot.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Centre dash has a 9-inch portrait style touchscreen, not as large as in many other SUVs but big enough for most users to feel comfortable with. Just tap and swipe to select the feature you require. The standard Google-based navigation system is one of the best around. Thankfully, there are some physical buttons including a huge volume control knob below the central screen. The large instrumentation cluster shows speed, power-charge indicator and you can choose to have the navigation shown here, as I did. There’s no Start button, as the car goes to 'Ready' as you sit in. Just select Drive or Reverse and drive away. When the journey ends, press the P for Park button and leave. </div><div><br /></div><div>The 252hp available provides decent acceleration, useful when joining a motorway or clearing busy junctions. But remember, driving the motorways at 120km/h will eat into range (as it does with any fuel) so it’s more economical to keep things at around 100-110km/h. Lower speed will pay off in the long run. </div><div><br /></div><div>When it comes to charging, a 150 kWh fast charger allows a 30pc-95pc 'fill' in around 35 minutes. Charging my car to 61pc gave me an indicated range of 240kms.
Parking is helped by big side mirrors, reversing camera and a 360deg visualisation. You can also select on the front, side or rear of the car icon to show which viewpoint you require. However, I felt the rear camera view to be quite limited vertically. </div><div><br /></div><div>My Ultimate grade added the keyless drive/start, Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving, and Adaptive Cruise Control, rear Park Assist Camera, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, excellent Blind Spot warming, Premium Sound by Harman Kardon, and 20-inch alloys as well as a wireless charging pad. The car receives automatic over the air updates, so features are always up to date. </div><div><br /></div><div>Start price is €58,210 (not incl SEAI grant).; my car €65,910.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NUym2g3iHfBHXbR3KJwg8jeGbX1KDduEKgd3WUbKOS0jwdlCxwekGoaQxlQ0R4WZxJl3O_p1oDFvUOI3KZEkHzknHr7nM5heKV3mKCksomJYZ4APPBhwtzPF5GG6Xk_5jQjC1dQ9CM4n8ZIK7gbsLG7nunu5TIKk9u4vcNlNBkV70UaMxD9dYA/s4032/XC40_rear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8NUym2g3iHfBHXbR3KJwg8jeGbX1KDduEKgd3WUbKOS0jwdlCxwekGoaQxlQ0R4WZxJl3O_p1oDFvUOI3KZEkHzknHr7nM5heKV3mKCksomJYZ4APPBhwtzPF5GG6Xk_5jQjC1dQ9CM4n8ZIK7gbsLG7nunu5TIKk9u4vcNlNBkV70UaMxD9dYA/w640-h480/XC40_rear.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p> </p></div>Trishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17313574609293725300noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-63275606769828878922024-03-13T09:27:00.002+00:002024-03-13T09:27:12.838+00:00Rare Merc sells for $12m<p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixtmaXlLZR4-C5_a-cuzHJwFH1oiu7cqzYrg3UuWvYHUQwzoa2HzJnl64yjlzf5zUew7zV7HPGSwYB-s7yFcdE1H1_4_A2Bwah3-TStRchHzbw4wHC-rp54lWLXleCDNx-vSMNrykRwwmWquiYBbWhPEHe70J324S3AP097Ii2UQuenw_7rVs/s1024/Mercedessimplex1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1024" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgixtmaXlLZR4-C5_a-cuzHJwFH1oiu7cqzYrg3UuWvYHUQwzoa2HzJnl64yjlzf5zUew7zV7HPGSwYB-s7yFcdE1H1_4_A2Bwah3-TStRchHzbw4wHC-rp54lWLXleCDNx-vSMNrykRwwmWquiYBbWhPEHe70J324S3AP097Ii2UQuenw_7rVs/w640-h516/Mercedessimplex1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo of similar car by Benutzer:Softeis at <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5866659" target="_blank">de.wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0</a>.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />A 1904 Mercedes-Simplex 60HP car that recently sold for over $12 million is one of just five remaining examples of a model that helped build the world's foremost luxury brand, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.</p><p>British press baron Alfred Harmsworth bought the car, of which just 102 were built, in 1903. The recent sale of the car also meant the car leaving the family which had owned it through successive generations for 121 years. With a 9.3-litre engine, in its time it was considered the fastest production car in the world, able to reach 80mph. Since the 1960s, the car was on display at the Beaulieu Motor Museum in Hampshire, UK.</p><p>Big and powerful for its day, the car was popular with wealthy families. The model was built by Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft on behalf of Emil Jellinek, who was selling Daimler cars in France, using his daughter’s name Mercedes as the brand. The Mercedes-Benz name came about in 1926, when Daimler merged with Karl Benz's car company.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-80521035165712456502024-03-13T09:00:00.000+00:002024-03-13T09:00:05.482+00:00Details of new Skoda Superb Combi<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZH3W9Mhr3juoh0C90zGWISFn7NV-kY_A8E_UXgzQ_Ra97aMlkzpEBXao2E7mbsU2dmhdPHbvCFezAIba7SUr0FOyivRHc5GoIZOM4IVpqeOMEULp5ODeiYStgYggz4nnzUh06b3qTBE80CCo9Y7-5k-ilL5F8WYJoT4GjdAfjwAbk7XAeihE/s1564/skodasuperbcombi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1564" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZH3W9Mhr3juoh0C90zGWISFn7NV-kY_A8E_UXgzQ_Ra97aMlkzpEBXao2E7mbsU2dmhdPHbvCFezAIba7SUr0FOyivRHc5GoIZOM4IVpqeOMEULp5ODeiYStgYggz4nnzUh06b3qTBE80CCo9Y7-5k-ilL5F8WYJoT4GjdAfjwAbk7XAeihE/w640-h360/skodasuperbcombi.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Skoda have released full details of their latest flagship Superb Combi, a very sought-after large car in markets where estates are popular, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>The car is larger in all key dimensions than its predecessor, including interior space. There's also a wider powertrain range including for the first time a 1.5 petrol turbo with mild-hybrid technology, along with a plug-in hybrid that offers an EV range of more than 100km. The 6-engine range provides output choices from 150hp-265hp.</p><p>A completely redesigned interior features comprehensive digital displays along with rotary knob management of climate and entertainment volume.</p><p>It's the third generation of Superb Combi cars since the first in 2009. Irish prices and arrival details later.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhrRkho2dPCDV4lHMIFfOg8EYueuS7lgHirOxbnHAFvMPqI5kE1CY-f8lblEExCcfU5Q7s6bKtdSTTM47HL_X0-EEs64g12Q-h8tlYC7eG9YANlt42nl1j9DqEQ3-0lxgYLs1NHajQFHGjKiSsh0IUCzB5hNYudj5a2u46XKkuLrjS7wiz9fH/s1564/skodasuperbcombiinside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="880" data-original-width="1564" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhrRkho2dPCDV4lHMIFfOg8EYueuS7lgHirOxbnHAFvMPqI5kE1CY-f8lblEExCcfU5Q7s6bKtdSTTM47HL_X0-EEs64g12Q-h8tlYC7eG9YANlt42nl1j9DqEQ3-0lxgYLs1NHajQFHGjKiSsh0IUCzB5hNYudj5a2u46XKkuLrjS7wiz9fH/w640-h360/skodasuperbcombiinside.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-12055201202040730612024-03-12T17:49:00.000+00:002024-03-12T17:49:27.417+00:00Toyota Prius Review: Trish Whelan, Irish Car<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA-OI1j7VPbfPCrbv8r96-cvzdmNZYczk6H3y2fLKRHeb6rgJAsjlBwGqdOPa8x6olvHkGgrPHqS1v1Qin_q5-qk5zy6TMlNY9-MeNbg8PKYwVIxu5H-3dyQnk92WIS_wKN5otnwBDd5x_ngphG-GIuknQXpeQgKoENOTOns5x_bwZohAvIb5AQ/s4032/Prius%20PHEV-frontside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA-OI1j7VPbfPCrbv8r96-cvzdmNZYczk6H3y2fLKRHeb6rgJAsjlBwGqdOPa8x6olvHkGgrPHqS1v1Qin_q5-qk5zy6TMlNY9-MeNbg8PKYwVIxu5H-3dyQnk92WIS_wKN5otnwBDd5x_ngphG-GIuknQXpeQgKoENOTOns5x_bwZohAvIb5AQ/w640-h480/Prius%20PHEV-frontside.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The first time I saw the Toyota Prius, I thought it one of the least attractive looking cars on our roads but this pioneering hybrid went on to become a world wide hit. <div><br /></div><div>Fast forward from 1997 to the present day and this fifth generation of the model, exclusively available as a Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), is a world away from that original dull looking car. It is now one of the sleekest, most dynamic lookers on sale here and I believe will attract buyers for its looks alone. It is simply stunning from every angle. The aerodynamically streamlined body style cuts drag and improves efficiency. The car sits 50mm lower than previously and is also significantly wider and shorter. A caveat: we found that the low roofline impacts getting in and out of the car for tall people and also limits rear head and legroom. <div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWDdtseoqS_d28r_1y7b30YrGBMrF1vjmClrl8JtlEfwDX25-FLQzTDrAgVq05NNi5OLMAaFYjiKFNFlFUDH_fleOG7z69toYshvgNsY0rpAnZzuLMMmzTLw38udSZjy7gayczIFTFXtuBq0ltVbU7k3FXCGQpnrpy15xmuaRfk1prXBDSWT63Q/s4032/Prius%20PHEV-interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWDdtseoqS_d28r_1y7b30YrGBMrF1vjmClrl8JtlEfwDX25-FLQzTDrAgVq05NNi5OLMAaFYjiKFNFlFUDH_fleOG7z69toYshvgNsY0rpAnZzuLMMmzTLw38udSZjy7gayczIFTFXtuBq0ltVbU7k3FXCGQpnrpy15xmuaRfk1prXBDSWT63Q/w640-h480/Prius%20PHEV-interior.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />My car, in a vivid Tokyo Gold exterior colour was certainly eye-catching but there are six other more ordinary colours to choose from.
The cabin is inviting with a simple, uncluttered dash and clean look. The raked windscreen seems very far forward and I found the size of the rear view mirror mounting and surround - that includes cameras and sensors - takes up so much space on the windscreen that it obstructed my visibility when approaching, and stopped at, traffic lights. Though A-pillar windows and Toyota’s thin A-pillars do aid driver visibility somewhat. </div><div><br /></div><div>The dark interior was softened by the mid grey roof lining, and some nice embellished silver trim. Seats in synthetic leather upholstery looked well and proved comfy; the driver’s has lumbar support and two memory seat settings. The main feature is a 12.3-inch multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, navigation, MyT Connected Services, and smart voice assist. The screen has a dark background which shows off the coloured graphics to perfection. Below are a row of buttons for the air con, dual zone climate control, and controls for the front seat heaters/ventilation.
A 7-inch driver information display screen is set high and far ahead on the dash almost in the driver’s line of sight. It shows your digital speed and where the power is coming from as well as how many kms are available in the battery. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfBBNuX8MJ7zKNiLPU4v64w3tOcxzMJ7ihyl60__ds8zJLOnNdTbIfiuOFE99bgWXEyyd75d5f70ICRbOn6WslAB_0tCjZwRqGx7y7nhoOIo7phzAGgDO5LMue-XwYfgT1aQngDrSrGVDY3uFVedLeXgdYmbx2ypqqCWQkIr1oukTVN6HDWuSpA/s4032/Prius%20PHEV-boot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfBBNuX8MJ7zKNiLPU4v64w3tOcxzMJ7ihyl60__ds8zJLOnNdTbIfiuOFE99bgWXEyyd75d5f70ICRbOn6WslAB_0tCjZwRqGx7y7nhoOIo7phzAGgDO5LMue-XwYfgT1aQngDrSrGVDY3uFVedLeXgdYmbx2ypqqCWQkIr1oukTVN6HDWuSpA/w640-h480/Prius%20PHEV-boot.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The gear drive selector is on the flat of the central console and I found it works well. There are six USB small Type C ports throughout the cabin.
Boot space is akin to that of a normal hatchback and there's a tyre repair kit below the floor. </div><div><br /></div><div>Power is from a 2.0 petrol engine outputting 223hp, an electric motor and 13.6kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The PHEV has a WLTP rated 71kms in electric drive on a single charge which allows many owners to drive in EV mode to and from their workplace. For longer trips, the powertrain switches seamlessly to the petrol-electric hybrid system so you never have to worry about range anxiety. Three drive modes are Eco, Sport and Normal. You can also select EV mode to drive in all-electric mode.
Toyota claim a possible fuel consumption figure of 0.7 L/100km (that’s 336mpg!), but in real use my car showed 4.6 L/100km (61mpg) when I returned it to Toyota. </div><div><br /></div><div>Safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 3, with a Pre-Collision system with pedestrian and daytime cyclist and motorbike detection, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, front cross traffic alert, a Blind Spot monitor, and rear view camera. </div><div><br /></div><div>On the road, this latest Prius is a pleasure to drive. Nice and quiet and super comfy. While it’s not exactly sporty, it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.8 secs. It also offers a smooth ride and seemed to glide over poor road surfaces. Steering is quite direct.
Charging the EV battery takes time as the maximum rate of charge for the battery is just 3.3kW so it’s best to charge at home or at your workplace as you won’t be welcomed at a fast DC public charging station, taking up valuable time for someone waiting to charge their fully electric car. Charging from a domestic socket takes around 6hrs, or 4hrs from a home wallbox. </div><div><br /></div><div>Toyota offers a manufacturer’s warranty of 3yrs/100,000km; a hybrid warranty of 5yrs/100,000km for all hybrid components including the hybrid battery; and up to 15yrs/unlimited mileage hybrid battery warranty once the car is serviced with a Toyota Dealer.
The Toyota Prius is priced from €46,530. Annual road tax is €140.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-PUuqE8o_eSi8TqUJQTAiH8C-4lqmAfyV62dPxI-oSK78jXS-mV7YueHUXH8ck053LGSX5RU19PpGLp50cgN5LDgDIa-30sF8rt6Ol6wp0fZj5vWq1jLAqRkOwBUAcYORs6cKx6nTcoMlD5ij-U7yxkOSIzI6W8ByDFLimntvGnKUmsE94WleBA/s4032/Prius%20PHEV-rearview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-PUuqE8o_eSi8TqUJQTAiH8C-4lqmAfyV62dPxI-oSK78jXS-mV7YueHUXH8ck053LGSX5RU19PpGLp50cgN5LDgDIa-30sF8rt6Ol6wp0fZj5vWq1jLAqRkOwBUAcYORs6cKx6nTcoMlD5ij-U7yxkOSIzI6W8ByDFLimntvGnKUmsE94WleBA/w640-h480/Prius%20PHEV-rearview.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p> </p></div></div>Trishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17313574609293725300noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-71920489100208419272024-03-12T08:35:00.001+00:002024-03-13T08:37:41.399+00:00Volvo EX90 here in the autumn<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekNTAZ1UztppRaO9V89pGsk7CBW2uHsVpSkh2OJSGVgzO1GOYLvY6__ulB4pSajq9HQKmzdQpmhX1wkwy7_3krWZDupZs-1-JVC7jfS_OmSzyVATyj2C3kQjjHnuFp0bwrbaVREvO2g1aF1SG9oZ4hJWhAwG4L5g6JFiJQUTdrBS0XxF94U5L/s2217/volvoex90.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1248" data-original-width="2217" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekNTAZ1UztppRaO9V89pGsk7CBW2uHsVpSkh2OJSGVgzO1GOYLvY6__ulB4pSajq9HQKmzdQpmhX1wkwy7_3krWZDupZs-1-JVC7jfS_OmSzyVATyj2C3kQjjHnuFp0bwrbaVREvO2g1aF1SG9oZ4hJWhAwG4L5g6JFiJQUTdrBS0XxF94U5L/w640-h360/volvoex90.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Volvo in Ireland have given a static preview of the EX90 flagship electric car, coming to Ireland in Q3, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>The 7-seat car will bring the fully electric range from the company to four models, joining the EX30, EX40 and EC40, those last two recently renamed from their previous nameplates.</p><p>Volvo's ambition is be fully electric by 2030, and the percentage of its models sold in Ireland last year that were EVs was 27pc.</p><p>Pricing for the EX90 will begin at €117,910. It will be initially launched in a twin-motor format with up to 517hp output, powered by a 111kWh battery. The preliminary WLTP range quoted is up to 600km according to the company. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzRUIlbZ-PZStsM__EwVSUZo1H4rIsByUszrShG4oBs54kxSCFO7yJM8pVS55o-JCxyGGlcoy3Uy9faCCTZyKo9-OJ2V6Fq4V3-IWBAAzF_K9YEm3Sl37V2U2WlGPRPja04jpsNUN_DQjpe3QW3fRqljUoslifp7KuZLxMqPeluOZ3061wyuIc/s4533/volvoex90int.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3400" data-original-width="4533" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzRUIlbZ-PZStsM__EwVSUZo1H4rIsByUszrShG4oBs54kxSCFO7yJM8pVS55o-JCxyGGlcoy3Uy9faCCTZyKo9-OJ2V6Fq4V3-IWBAAzF_K9YEm3Sl37V2U2WlGPRPja04jpsNUN_DQjpe3QW3fRqljUoslifp7KuZLxMqPeluOZ3061wyuIc/w640-h480/volvoex90int.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-21750936566437330302024-03-08T14:46:00.003+00:002024-03-13T08:38:31.451+00:00Fiat E-Doblo review: Trish Whelan, Irish Car<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy9JEWprngTqCeBG5bI-ciAOSDSTlln_qsrc719ehX9exJcLKfN5GT4AJnwQQa7vpLff7mydLyDIf_kIEFnM7xV8udiMq1Z_QnFMrprpp6yD_80PoW5FDs7QCpoW75iXMnN5-VQEEaGiCM8m9b1BPGxPMml85t0kC6LP_LlHVcc4yTUhy6DbSo_A/s2617/Fiat%20Doblo%20front.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1963" data-original-width="2617" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy9JEWprngTqCeBG5bI-ciAOSDSTlln_qsrc719ehX9exJcLKfN5GT4AJnwQQa7vpLff7mydLyDIf_kIEFnM7xV8udiMq1Z_QnFMrprpp6yD_80PoW5FDs7QCpoW75iXMnN5-VQEEaGiCM8m9b1BPGxPMml85t0kC6LP_LlHVcc4yTUhy6DbSo_A/w640-h480/Fiat%20Doblo%20front.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The small Fiat Doblo panel van has been produced by the Italian automaker since 2000, <b>writes <i>Trish Whelan</i></b>. A second-generation arrived in 2010 while the third iteration of the model, a rebadged version of the Citroen Berlingo and Peugeot Partner vans, was unveiled last year with a battery electric version (BEV) offered as the e-Doblo. All are part of the huge Stellantis group and are imported and distributed in Ireland by Gowan Auto. <div><br /></div><div>Doblo is a certainly a handsome van that will look good pulling up outside a client’s premises. It is offered in both SWB and LWB versions.
Exterior features on our LWB short time review version were 16-inch steel wheels with enhanced suspensions, black front and rear bumpers, side rubbing strips, Daytime Running Lights integrated in the headlights, heated/power adjustable side mirrors, twin near side sliding side doors, twin rear doors opening to 180deg. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEuMzMlyTHNNZPd9juuIVRWqb8UzpUWt_4TUvBBGt3_y4qFbbQd9wl6ZCFBdjfWn0qxUQh4f_rjndqKxULGCIavI9r6AV7AZZeoyVLEZCt4Bio2wr_SuSQd-RteSowTo1pkr_93Nx7UNCMiOSq1f3ePc5ZL8HuGkDlu98U_auMM5MdVKgLHftFQ/s4032/Fiat%20Doblo%20interior.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDEuMzMlyTHNNZPd9juuIVRWqb8UzpUWt_4TUvBBGt3_y4qFbbQd9wl6ZCFBdjfWn0qxUQh4f_rjndqKxULGCIavI9r6AV7AZZeoyVLEZCt4Bio2wr_SuSQd-RteSowTo1pkr_93Nx7UNCMiOSq1f3ePc5ZL8HuGkDlu98U_auMM5MdVKgLHftFQ/w640-h480/Fiat%20Doblo%20interior.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The interior is tailored to suit the needs of the driver with comfort, technology to help with their everyday operations as well as different space configurations.
The flexible three-seat configuration (a separate driver’s seat and a 2-seater bench) allows you use the cabin as additional cargo space in the passenger compartment, providing more stability for bulky or fragile packages, while still maintaining two seats. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsn6Ha4srCXjVrQtxCr-suH_E9Q_u6OAUBxc0ETWqEu9o1EzB-tsIHsnSn7BUkoaCPVOtGkvjTb-mZuCd4xBXuDcNTjA5I7hCml0PmevbIfNWF8W0g7l1NJCKdcPoHRmg74CMV8Wy-G3fr6HAcu8mjUSlRbUSeyFX6qTk4Lx5SgnTZCOC2WerwA/s4032/Doblo%20seat%20table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsn6Ha4srCXjVrQtxCr-suH_E9Q_u6OAUBxc0ETWqEu9o1EzB-tsIHsnSn7BUkoaCPVOtGkvjTb-mZuCd4xBXuDcNTjA5I7hCml0PmevbIfNWF8W0g7l1NJCKdcPoHRmg74CMV8Wy-G3fr6HAcu8mjUSlRbUSeyFX6qTk4Lx5SgnTZCOC2WerwA/w640-h480/Doblo%20seat%20table.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />It can also become a mobile office for the driver during breaks from driving. You pull down the middle seatback to avail of a table for an iPad or computer or to simply fill in delivery dockets on a hard surface or to eat a packed lunch. The driver’s seat is height adjustable with lumbar support, the latter so important to help avoid back pain for drivers whose work includes long journeys.
Visibility is aided, especially coming up to roundabouts, by big A-Pillar windows and thin A-Pillars. </div><div><br /></div><div>The main focus is the 8-inch central infotainment touchscreen display to which you can connect your smartphone with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and use Google Maps. There’s a knob for volume control. The driver’s digital instrumentation is clear and informative with speed shown large.
An out-jut on the dash incorporates a cupholder, some storage areas and transmission selector and your drive mode selection. There’s a 12V power socket way down below, close to the floor.
Storage areas include a big overhead shelf that runs the width of the cabin, an area on the top of the dash, a closed cooled glove box as well as an open shelf, and big door bins. </div><div><br />Standard are driver and passenger airbags, good quality cloth seat upholstery, a full size spare wheel, Hill Assist, remote central locking on all doors with deadlocking, manual air conditioning, an electric parking brake in this three-seat version, one-touch opening power windows, voice control, and remote audio controls on the steering wheel column. The steering wheel is height and reach adjustable. There’s also a range of active and passive Advanced Driving Assistance systems. The vehicle offers a really comfy driving position and car-like drive.
A full steel bulkhead, with two coat hooks, protects occupants from moving cargo in the case of a sudden stop or a rear impact and there are six universal tie bracket points on the lower loading area to help keep cargo secure. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-DU6u5Zjl8H-68NEbwG6tI4HXPlYNOLKFiCJ7oOSbyCGDheNxdmWtMyKkJZOy6eIpYnRk6ok6KcvSQsVOCTH02XqQvLbvCf53HLQfeJMu7XqHfOv7gAY178J7Fr7xhFCDzaCrgikLvFfw9Uxnc_cNaTCERkfNOAA61-Z93a2LjL7ar-Ji4bKAw/s4032/Fiat%20Doblo%20rear.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-DU6u5Zjl8H-68NEbwG6tI4HXPlYNOLKFiCJ7oOSbyCGDheNxdmWtMyKkJZOy6eIpYnRk6ok6KcvSQsVOCTH02XqQvLbvCf53HLQfeJMu7XqHfOv7gAY178J7Fr7xhFCDzaCrgikLvFfw9Uxnc_cNaTCERkfNOAA61-Z93a2LjL7ar-Ji4bKAw/w640-h480/Fiat%20Doblo%20rear.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />My press van was the E-Doblo L2 Long Wheel Base 50kW, 800kg payload version. Twin sliding side doors on the LWB version help with access to the cargo area which is 1820mm long, 1714mm wide and 1305mm high. Rear doors open to 180 degrees for ease of loading or unloading. Cargo volume is up to 4.4 m3 and payload 800kg though E-Doblo can provide up to a 1,000kg payload.
If more load length is needed, the ‘Magic Cargo’ feature increases the versatility of the van’s interior allows for a longer working length up to 3.44 meters. This option is not available in two-seater vans. A hard plastic floor that covers the cargo area is an optional extra as is a reversing camera, electric/heated/foldable side mirrors and fog lamp. </div><div><br /></div><div>E-Doblo is powered by a 136hp motor combined with a 50kWh battery pack. With a claimed range of circa 280kms, small electric vans are most suitable for urban delivery work. The range will drop considerably on longer journeys and carrying full loads.
You can have a quick DC 100kW charge to 80pc in 30 mins with the 50kWh battery. The battery charging system includes a standard cable or, on request, wall boxes for fast charging. The Wall Box (AC) 11kW charger takes 5hrs to reach 100pc with the 50 kWh battery while the 7.4 kW (AC) Wall Box takes 7h 40mins. Both are best used for overnight charging. </div><div><br /></div><div>This battery electric vehicle (BEV) qualifies for a VRT rebate and SEAI grant support of €3,800.
E-Doblo standard van €36,850 SWB; LWB €37,850.00.
VAT is €7,601.22-€7,788.21; ex VAT prices are €33,048.78/€33,861.79: VRT €200.00.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr0vgelkCUEj59_Q2QcGhAsanhKfqdstFt6M5UUAi9MlVgoAfIL2s6pWcLBkEt8rhXCgQfnXie5sMq5I4xUR48mKafxt5Nrboregc3HIAE62ax99yHWgznqZMp_n9kYICRNRyBZHlLodmkbHH0fXzwQhtP0mRD3dAR6FZuhU8FLPKi2f86OphS4A/s4032/E-Doblo%20rear%20doors%20open.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr0vgelkCUEj59_Q2QcGhAsanhKfqdstFt6M5UUAi9MlVgoAfIL2s6pWcLBkEt8rhXCgQfnXie5sMq5I4xUR48mKafxt5Nrboregc3HIAE62ax99yHWgznqZMp_n9kYICRNRyBZHlLodmkbHH0fXzwQhtP0mRD3dAR6FZuhU8FLPKi2f86OphS4A/w640-h480/E-Doblo%20rear%20doors%20open.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><p> </p></div>Trishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17313574609293725300noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-80244776361537381262024-03-06T10:01:00.002+00:002024-03-06T10:01:52.379+00:00Volvo to introduce 'Accident Ahead' warning system in some markets<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidW7H0LV-CiXZCBvYbPRorm2mPf79b-QDloGv-X5B-2ED5iOlUNQbLQzxYzIA1mwzTYK1phflyyT-WE_aPKVJtWHiGn5LEOH0TUm_758SxZLPPpteqADM88wzdu0VA28TzRFjgOkogSqA721etMVGona600EigtsTtVjnYl3LNkUKyckZQy-eu/s1302/volvoaccidentahead.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="1302" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidW7H0LV-CiXZCBvYbPRorm2mPf79b-QDloGv-X5B-2ED5iOlUNQbLQzxYzIA1mwzTYK1phflyyT-WE_aPKVJtWHiGn5LEOH0TUm_758SxZLPPpteqADM88wzdu0VA28TzRFjgOkogSqA721etMVGona600EigtsTtVjnYl3LNkUKyckZQy-eu/w640-h360/volvoaccidentahead.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br />A new safety feature is being rolled out by Volvo which can warn of a crash or a breakdown ahead, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>. It will initially be available in Denmark before being extended to other European markets.<p></p><p>Called Accident Ahead Alert, the system anonymously shares real-time data gathered by local traffic management centres, using cloud technology for connectivity.</p><p>Where it works, drivers will get a warning about a stopped vehicle ahead. In compatible models and markets, Volvo cars can already warn each other of slippery road conditions and other hazards, as experienced by traffic ahead.</p><p>Mercedes-Benz has similar technology in some models and markets, able to issue warnings about a range of hazards and incidents, and other carmakers are also working on their own systems.</p><p>The technology may become mandatory for all new cars in the future. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-64201043446925203222024-03-05T10:34:00.000+00:002024-03-05T10:34:05.057+00:00HVO fuel promotion for Skoda diesel buyers<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkMxBZVO0UB8GbqB3geBO4kUvIKHNOL-NTXWO0Ioe9fv364wckiLhWVlD6G_TAUlCZI5lmi7uiBq1cAW_K6zUHnrdBKb4LtdcMRtSEBU3dg_hkWTBjq16ZgqcbJQ4ueORT5MTZkSX3N_nrZRnQAaKb8msLW6AZzZUUgA_PE3VacLhW4JRbJVN/s5230/2%20-%20Skoda%20and%20Certa%20HVO%20biofuel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2942" data-original-width="5230" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkMxBZVO0UB8GbqB3geBO4kUvIKHNOL-NTXWO0Ioe9fv364wckiLhWVlD6G_TAUlCZI5lmi7uiBq1cAW_K6zUHnrdBKb4LtdcMRtSEBU3dg_hkWTBjq16ZgqcbJQ4ueORT5MTZkSX3N_nrZRnQAaKb8msLW6AZzZUUgA_PE3VacLhW4JRbJVN/w640-h360/2%20-%20Skoda%20and%20Certa%20HVO%20biofuel.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Buyers of Skoda diesel cars during March will receive vouchers up to a value of €500 for alternative fuel HVO, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>. The promotion is with fuel supplier Certa, who are currently upgrading their 41 forecourt outlets to provide HVO.<p></p><p>Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil is a low-carbon biofuel which can replace or be mixed with regular diesel fuel without needing any modifications to engines. It is made in a process involving waste plant-matter oils and a hydrogen catalyst. Proponents claim it cuts greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90pc.</p><p>The Skoda promotion provides vouchers of €250 or €500 to customers, depending on the diesel model bought. The company, a part of the Volkswagen Group, says all diesel cars produced by Skoda since 2021 are HVO-compatible. For current owners of diesel cars, <a href="https://www.skoda.ie/discover-skoda/hvo" target="_blank">an online check here</a> will inform them if their car is compatible.</p><p>Certa operate unmanned 24/7 pay at the pump forecourts, with HVO currently available at their outlets in Liffey Valley in Dublin, Lee Tunnel in Cork and Trim in Meath. Certa are planning to have seven more forecourts HVO-ready by the end of this year, in Dundrum, Tallaght and Finglas in Dublin, Maynooth in Kildare, Letterkenny in Donegal and Athlone and Mullingar in Westmeath. HVO pumps are recognisable by pink nozzles.</p><p><i>Pictured are John Donegan, Brand Director at Škoda Ireland, Ciara Breen, Marketing Manager at Škoda Ireland, Andrew Graham, Managing Director at Certa and Laura Byrne Head of Sustainable Fuels at Certa. </i></p><p> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-1342636624542856552024-02-29T12:59:00.000+00:002024-02-29T12:59:37.027+00:00Peugeot sponsors Pop-Up race series for 2024<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqWPMlNvlSYAQ8A9su9IxuDHWCZ3N8Oy0uHDe8Gpj10KFJkUfboWHAp32huhNJHZPYs9xsdpf2V8P1MGE27iQkVIAXUggsz3lKXmSC3YMRulLQyITfSDr4roWWZFmxoE7A9Lu7z9zSYUbu-g5l4XwXTCEGpGCjjftJp6nOjihrvSAZEKmljUu3A/s5944/Pop-up-Races-Peugeot-Race-Series.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3782" data-original-width="5944" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqWPMlNvlSYAQ8A9su9IxuDHWCZ3N8Oy0uHDe8Gpj10KFJkUfboWHAp32huhNJHZPYs9xsdpf2V8P1MGE27iQkVIAXUggsz3lKXmSC3YMRulLQyITfSDr4roWWZFmxoE7A9Lu7z9zSYUbu-g5l4XwXTCEGpGCjjftJp6nOjihrvSAZEKmljUu3A/w640-h408/Pop-up-Races-Peugeot-Race-Series.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Peugeot Ireland is continuing its partnership with Pop-Up Races for the 2024 racing season, <i>writes <b>Trish Whelan</b>.</i> <div><br /></div><div>The sponsorship agreement will see the car company renew its role as the official vehicle partner for the race series which will include various events across Ireland.
The aim is to encourage people to embrace an active lifestyle and take part in community activities. There’s a guaranteed prize pot of €18,000, with an additional prize fund of €6,000 for the individual competition and €9,000 available for new course record bonuses, making this year’s Series prize pot €33,000 in total. </div><div><br /></div><div>The 2024 Peugeot Race Series will kick off with the Streets of Portlaoise 5k on 17 March. The full race calendar includes a range of distances from 5k to Half Marathon, with events taking place in various towns and cities across Ireland. </div><div><br /></div><div>The Series 2024 includes:
17 March Streets of Portlaoise 5k, 28 March Streets of Kilkenny 5k, 14 May Bob Heffernan / Mary Hanley 5km (Enfield), 19 May Aisling Murphy Memorial 4 Miles (Tullamore), 22 June Dunshaughlin 10k, 29 June Roscommon 10 Miles, 21 July Edenderry 10 Miles, 18 August Cork City 10 Miles, 15 September Charleville International Half Marathon.</div><div><br /></div><div>For registration details and event dates, visit www.popupraces.ie </div><div><br /></div><div>Pictured above: At the finish line of the Ashling Murphy 4 Miler 2023 in Tullamore. The race winner was Eoin Everard of Kilkenny City Harriers A.C. <p> </p></div>Trishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17313574609293725300noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-58080303125060337052024-02-28T13:54:00.006+00:002024-02-28T14:15:35.565+00:00Smart #1 reaches the Irish market<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8dEJEVYAQYZAGFy1rfviyU00x0Re9w_l5FXwOyJFc71aNn9veewJpLGNBMp0o0nqId5h_UDBMCEfZdqSsO-qEFw0ekQzAi0H57FPR88UiRpW47pHpRv_HHs1sPYb-ARpOhBf5DlqoCsq5S_XrCuqyu3lnkHLJj6GSXRAbxaIgSDpNy9iy6af6/s4845/smartIMG_8172.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2726" data-original-width="4845" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8dEJEVYAQYZAGFy1rfviyU00x0Re9w_l5FXwOyJFc71aNn9veewJpLGNBMp0o0nqId5h_UDBMCEfZdqSsO-qEFw0ekQzAi0H57FPR88UiRpW47pHpRv_HHs1sPYb-ARpOhBf5DlqoCsq5S_XrCuqyu3lnkHLJj6GSXRAbxaIgSDpNy9iy6af6/w640-h360/smartIMG_8172.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The latest electric car brand to land in Ireland is the smart, a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Chinese automotive giant Geely, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>The smart #1 is the first of several models using the hashtag prefix that will be rolled out over the next 12 months, and is pitched against the likes of Hyundai's Kona Electric and the VW ID.3.</p><p>The rear-drive car has chirpy looks and an interior that features quirky graphics, including a 'madra rua', an animated fox that sits on a bottom corner of the infotainment screen.</p><p>A 272hp electric motor with a 66kWh battery provides a rated range of up to 440km, </p><p>The smart #1 range will be marketed through a number of dealer outlets within the Mercedes-Benz passenger car network. There's a choice from four versions, with an entry prize of €37,479.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0bjRreSe7FISoHgInCU3XuIaNQt33gDxIdVVwMh01hwgamiGwxRr8w59lO1oB7GNtSdN4bH5536zy6HPqx5umX8gO3eQUuriZf1cHkq7rvUCnoHOpNKPVNXJ_RVra9aYT6LQaWslhFUWF6809cfcvqkXglEikMnzjFcVrE9a9UQAbwktBVxd/s4223/smartIMG_8173.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2376" data-original-width="4223" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0bjRreSe7FISoHgInCU3XuIaNQt33gDxIdVVwMh01hwgamiGwxRr8w59lO1oB7GNtSdN4bH5536zy6HPqx5umX8gO3eQUuriZf1cHkq7rvUCnoHOpNKPVNXJ_RVra9aYT6LQaWslhFUWF6809cfcvqkXglEikMnzjFcVrE9a9UQAbwktBVxd/w640-h360/smartIMG_8173.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMx0qJ5t5jSZNDBABguc87Qr0EwWms37l9KLn4VYxHkEoGW5hUp8ImgdecEHCzOaYywzewh5AxKXjGy395tC6VU29vCbMMumu0saE4tImeeaylfu06y9L3qhB3q6OPjS3OYXxNy95Joz3eY12VWxebJQmeUpkic6oWlMp0TtVwBkxfGphxOnE/s1512/smartIMG_2427madrarua.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1512" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkMx0qJ5t5jSZNDBABguc87Qr0EwWms37l9KLn4VYxHkEoGW5hUp8ImgdecEHCzOaYywzewh5AxKXjGy395tC6VU29vCbMMumu0saE4tImeeaylfu06y9L3qhB3q6OPjS3OYXxNy95Joz3eY12VWxebJQmeUpkic6oWlMp0TtVwBkxfGphxOnE/w640-h360/smartIMG_2427madrarua.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFj0GTv68rwCkOKb9QWpvqboWRlVl0c3maQGC0r6goQUHQ16a2ZaPlEFFeImqxrzf2HRNGI0aghgqpTTNXgCdNG0e2lZ4gwAraN7LRLYuT8k26_MyviKE17L4RI15qUyP5Qg5giwoVsizDr5GOKnmviTDeWrR8fMXnZ-PeQqS1mpyHc6HHxI0A/s1894/smartIMG_2422.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1894" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFj0GTv68rwCkOKb9QWpvqboWRlVl0c3maQGC0r6goQUHQ16a2ZaPlEFFeImqxrzf2HRNGI0aghgqpTTNXgCdNG0e2lZ4gwAraN7LRLYuT8k26_MyviKE17L4RI15qUyP5Qg5giwoVsizDr5GOKnmviTDeWrR8fMXnZ-PeQqS1mpyHc6HHxI0A/w640-h360/smartIMG_2422.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-52358602456112913462024-02-26T13:07:00.003+00:002024-02-28T21:01:47.365+00:00Renault reveals new small electric car<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO6zDs_jXOizSpd74gV1oDZyulF7UqD2Q0f2YzVSknLsEmX_fQeTXDHuV3td9i_BsodjFxn6iMajYPHJ7Wq3kKjHZJXcOjtPhvAZeVFGn-TgTyH1m8nx3i-a28bAvSlWhE5ohdqHt7RvH7e6Bu4_1JwsjjCIOgb2yS0xFjlfwZWXgyOAna1aXk/s1021/Renault5.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="574" data-original-width="1021" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO6zDs_jXOizSpd74gV1oDZyulF7UqD2Q0f2YzVSknLsEmX_fQeTXDHuV3td9i_BsodjFxn6iMajYPHJ7Wq3kKjHZJXcOjtPhvAZeVFGn-TgTyH1m8nx3i-a28bAvSlWhE5ohdqHt7RvH7e6Bu4_1JwsjjCIOgb2yS0xFjlfwZWXgyOAna1aXk/w640-h360/Renault5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric has been revealed at the former Geneva International Motor Show, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>The name revives memories of the original 5 launched in 1972 and becoming a iconic small car during its lifetime.</p><p>The latest iteration is built on a new special platform dedicated to B segment electric vehicles.</p><p>The car will be available with battery choices up to 52kWh and a rated range of up to 400km. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUcAF7YHKthFEWzojWw3NjtRJZu9vlVrd6cd60iWd240D7zXwidTqBAFsft5soyYSYw8PwfnPVXIsgTlwEEnkp1i9duiXYajGaXTzAaIdxsVFOKHZbDjN8o3WdIdWOaqKbZm_bJHL-h-wFnROyP0wqi5D4Bj5YRw2blYQ6vTzbP221o2xR8na/s916/renault5interior.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="916" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZUcAF7YHKthFEWzojWw3NjtRJZu9vlVrd6cd60iWd240D7zXwidTqBAFsft5soyYSYw8PwfnPVXIsgTlwEEnkp1i9duiXYajGaXTzAaIdxsVFOKHZbDjN8o3WdIdWOaqKbZm_bJHL-h-wFnROyP0wqi5D4Bj5YRw2blYQ6vTzbP221o2xR8na/w640-h360/renault5interior.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgJIUO6MCymWz_jJl_ftTCaAXjDf9w_EtHJ_orHfZrYH1YtP_2YlqavkEwHSE7YHFkOaimilah8GuO8wjAqbYK0OTG4DTlCw-EZwafwEG2nYy2_VIhBoBJXeUpxjbw3n-NjUFIF3zNktWpEk7J_OPBmnfWuw4LvnWh8CNlu_9TxziRRHKNMUv/s916/renault52.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="916" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgJIUO6MCymWz_jJl_ftTCaAXjDf9w_EtHJ_orHfZrYH1YtP_2YlqavkEwHSE7YHFkOaimilah8GuO8wjAqbYK0OTG4DTlCw-EZwafwEG2nYy2_VIhBoBJXeUpxjbw3n-NjUFIF3zNktWpEk7J_OPBmnfWuw4LvnWh8CNlu_9TxziRRHKNMUv/w640-h360/renault52.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-10110487879539622332024-02-26T12:55:00.001+00:002024-02-27T12:57:09.916+00:00Renault takes 7th European COTY award<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQyvdRHNQjQNGLbFUF16E8nMob3KcxHX5K4azfECxqqmCGcPHLlfSBlLuUmZzQl2Ick0XFc-EHJbkQpLhNqriuNApuhFxoleZUD0CRe506GDpRJ9NvHr5I3cCYi0GXnTSOekt-C_y5QdKuoGZhWI6y94nJpnGpEpa2nY07haw4vyNT_TaBEJSk/s1962/Screenshot%202024-02-27%20at%2012.53.35.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="1962" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQyvdRHNQjQNGLbFUF16E8nMob3KcxHX5K4azfECxqqmCGcPHLlfSBlLuUmZzQl2Ick0XFc-EHJbkQpLhNqriuNApuhFxoleZUD0CRe506GDpRJ9NvHr5I3cCYi0GXnTSOekt-C_y5QdKuoGZhWI6y94nJpnGpEpa2nY07haw4vyNT_TaBEJSk/w640-h358/Screenshot%202024-02-27%20at%2012.53.35.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric has been voted European Car of the Year 2024, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>. It is the 7th Renault vehicle to win the award.<p></p><p>The car was in the final choice from a short-list of BMW 5-series, BYD Seal, Kia EV9, Peugeot E-3008/3008, Renault Scenic, Toyota C-HR, and Volvo EX30, after the first round of voting by a jury of 59 motoring journalists from 22 countries.</p><p>Orders are already open, and the first vehicles are expected in the Renault network very soon. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-28717398340615497562024-02-23T14:26:00.000+00:002024-02-23T14:26:13.865+00:00SIMI announces winners of Motor Industry Awards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcnecH7SbCDy4kVbDsyi51FEnROnzuORGy-BA2odD4e8_2MGnLqvifCZlcML_PiL8zC1GS469VvB94efg5FRsbIRDNA3PkpcfGsGxe_whvUyntzD0TQVjg722E6jB-Px9iHfen2NzS2BZqAJoXyfmU1OpiEjA_BUykJY5hOwLcxoDbgCjUADG0Q/s5497/clGkAeR6%2041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3416" data-original-width="5497" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcnecH7SbCDy4kVbDsyi51FEnROnzuORGy-BA2odD4e8_2MGnLqvifCZlcML_PiL8zC1GS469VvB94efg5FRsbIRDNA3PkpcfGsGxe_whvUyntzD0TQVjg722E6jB-Px9iHfen2NzS2BZqAJoXyfmU1OpiEjA_BUykJY5hOwLcxoDbgCjUADG0Q/w640-h398/clGkAeR6%2041.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Society of the Irish Motor Industry, in partnership with sponsor Bank of Ireland, took place yesterday at the Clayton Hotel in Dublin with Simon Delaney, Master of Ceremonies announcing the accolades in front of over 700 senior motor industry figures, <i>writes <b>Trish Whelan</b></i>. <div><br /></div><div>The award winners, adjudicated by an independent panel, operate across all sectors of the Irish Motor Industry. Companies selected demonstrated an award-winning level of excellence and best practice over the last 12 months. </div><div><br /></div><div>Category award winners were:
Bodyshop of the Year: Denning’s Cars Ltd., Dublin
Vehicle Recovery Operator of the Year: Hamill Rental Ltd., Co Westmeath
Independent Retailer Operation of the Year: Autopoint Motor Group, Co Kerry
Franchised Aftersales Operation of the Year: Toyota Naas, Co Kildare
Franchise Sales Operation of the Year: Western Motors Drogheda, Co Lough. </div><div><br /></div><div>Before their announcement, SIMI President Paddy Magee commented the resilience and adaptability of the Motor Industry to trade during these challenging times and acknowledged the industry’s continued commitment to the climate change targets.
The Motor Industry plays a significant role in the Irish economy, collecting over 1 billion euro for the Exchequer from car sales last year. When other motoring taxes, and the annual tax take from motorists are included, it is close to 6 billion euro. </div><div><br /></div><div>Mr Magee remarked: “Manufacturers and retailers have worked diligently to grow the EV market, with over 70 different new electric vehicles models now available, demonstrating the dedication to consumers and the investment by the industry in the electric vehicle transition. While we accept that incentives cannot continue indefinitely, it is still too premature to start phasing out supports. The Government has been generous in its supports of EVs to date; it is simply imperative that this Government commitment is maintained as we move to the next cohort of potential EV buyers.” </div><div><br /></div><div>Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI) announced the winners of the ZEVI EV Dealership of the Year regional awards which are:
Fitzpatrick’s Garage Kildare Ltd in Kildare for Leinster, Fermoy Nissan in Cork for Munster, Western Motors Ltd in Galway for Connaught, Connolly’s Volkswagen Letterkenny for Ulster. </div><div><br /></div><div>John Feeney of Finance Bank of Ireland said the bank are delighted to partner with SIMI for the Irish Motor Industry Awards and the event is ‘a small representation of our strong and steady backing for the motor finance business’. He said the bank is proud of their partnership with 23 motor brands and are committed to supporting the transition to electric vehicles. </div><div><br /></div><div>SIMI President Paddy Magee (pictured below) praised all the companies who were shortlisted for each of the SIMI Motor Industry Award categories. </div><div><br /></div><div>Pictured above at yesterday’s ceremony were (L-R): Paddy Magee, President of SIMI; John Feeney, Bank of Ireland with Liam Gillespie and Robbie Matthews of Western Motors Drogheda, winners of the Award for Franchised Sales Operation of the Year 2024; Brian Cooke, Director General of SIMI.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWfqkbPo7Cx5tfeRuOq0xZzjH3_FZ7SxS93Q-8HLNF7BNyptOBFEHZjXetkhbTDR91BxTbRK0FjSlj5BolUSGiwj_RZBmBmbfgoOGpbnZuCg5n2CLXjHSnuQbZiQ4oMDcxvThNeEbYQ6rrM1LwaGtcuIBHk5bGLzkjn5asEcEcxislpFyH8_0pw/s5135/36.SIMI%20President%20Paddy%20Magee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3550" data-original-width="5135" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWfqkbPo7Cx5tfeRuOq0xZzjH3_FZ7SxS93Q-8HLNF7BNyptOBFEHZjXetkhbTDR91BxTbRK0FjSlj5BolUSGiwj_RZBmBmbfgoOGpbnZuCg5n2CLXjHSnuQbZiQ4oMDcxvThNeEbYQ6rrM1LwaGtcuIBHk5bGLzkjn5asEcEcxislpFyH8_0pw/w640-h442/36.SIMI%20President%20Paddy%20Magee.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /> <p> </p></div>Trishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17313574609293725300noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-88085182223227266772024-02-23T13:19:00.001+00:002024-02-27T13:21:08.990+00:00New Ineos vehicle revealed<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisRII8LsXF_LZcfGVrLf6ViS5nrywZjIh8LE0zAXA6eOlYhbDS9gpceMij6Htm2S7w6mND_CO93xxpQkBO-npUcHI0i-uf1lZKPI2JEP9_zPtm9oMPErOlayWaYbiQX2p9-AbnlNhw8heEzJ8rT9lQuPW1jBRTEAiZ5CtfFgPrEWqO73cmxG5M/s4758/INEOS%20Fusilier_New%20Colour%202%20(Solid).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2676" data-original-width="4758" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisRII8LsXF_LZcfGVrLf6ViS5nrywZjIh8LE0zAXA6eOlYhbDS9gpceMij6Htm2S7w6mND_CO93xxpQkBO-npUcHI0i-uf1lZKPI2JEP9_zPtm9oMPErOlayWaYbiQX2p9-AbnlNhw8heEzJ8rT9lQuPW1jBRTEAiZ5CtfFgPrEWqO73cmxG5M/w640-h360/INEOS%20Fusilier_New%20Colour%202%20(Solid).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The independent specialist carmaker Ineos has revealed a new 4x4 vehicle, the Fusilier, which will be offered with both all-electric and range-extender powertrains, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>Smaller than the existing Grenadier 4x4, the Fusilier was unveiled in London by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, founder of Ineos, a subsidiary of his major petrochemicals and oil products company.</p><p>No launch detail for the Fusilier has yet been provided, though further information is expected by the autumn.</p><p>Ineos vehicles have been developed in conjunction with Austrian specialist manufacturer Magna. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-44735485616320619662024-02-22T13:29:00.002+00:002024-02-27T13:31:48.458+00:00PHEV option available in new Tiguan<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLFgSceok86NUgsI0_OQS-hjsnHaEM0eAkJOcgMguAl-BjFB4Rh-pX1ZYBMuM48_Av0dH-YsrwW3aNPHHAbYZnmTHJRxgrXgXHN1F3MgiYJ-G-KKaPB0f7UmDGbG_EE9GMm7bhwY_L4fyMQDNQLYi-YSygUfX0lr4jQcTa22goaXcyUv955Kak/s3174/DB2024AU00040_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1785" data-original-width="3174" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLFgSceok86NUgsI0_OQS-hjsnHaEM0eAkJOcgMguAl-BjFB4Rh-pX1ZYBMuM48_Av0dH-YsrwW3aNPHHAbYZnmTHJRxgrXgXHN1F3MgiYJ-G-KKaPB0f7UmDGbG_EE9GMm7bhwY_L4fyMQDNQLYi-YSygUfX0lr4jQcTa22goaXcyUv955Kak/w640-h360/DB2024AU00040_large.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />A new plug-in hybrid drivetrain has been announced for the latest generation of the VW Tiguan, which has just begun market launch across Europe, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>The claimed range of the EV element of the system is 120km, giving the car an estimated combined petrol-electric range of 900km on a full tank. It will be available in two outputs, 204hp and 272hp.</p><p>The new Tiguan is the third generation of what is currently the brand's most successful vehicle. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLd3U3Hl9ILFTXXQQJH1ldtTrDdl5eTGWv5F-oAB4BP232SK9q34IFrRvUqAPubLu9X8X_LOtG4aPVSD0qiI1QOLJW4-_WZTmGUVL9w8D2woUtNqv6bBo1GAQva7gJbXCA1tTI4buvufo3IwkTXkcMRtoLGdUROLUCMaUkIUYZ3BFB-EI1Nrx/s3174/DB2024AU00039_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1785" data-original-width="3174" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLd3U3Hl9ILFTXXQQJH1ldtTrDdl5eTGWv5F-oAB4BP232SK9q34IFrRvUqAPubLu9X8X_LOtG4aPVSD0qiI1QOLJW4-_WZTmGUVL9w8D2woUtNqv6bBo1GAQva7gJbXCA1tTI4buvufo3IwkTXkcMRtoLGdUROLUCMaUkIUYZ3BFB-EI1Nrx/w640-h360/DB2024AU00039_large.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCIrfH_E8vtpU0CYIYbf3EaU3RG00NoB2mzJe_hvziR3TZ4VBZeTv8OqEjUSlSj9ooVkhQIUwiIGHnnFgHbnwJoTenS3RvxShNUlolZz8dCgO2Rh2zHF8523chXJvnycPBMFSIZ2OGcgzmhPakmnWBLU9PpBuprBCh0zFqqm2tfysDDWMk2A3u/s3174/DB2024AU00060_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1785" data-original-width="3174" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCIrfH_E8vtpU0CYIYbf3EaU3RG00NoB2mzJe_hvziR3TZ4VBZeTv8OqEjUSlSj9ooVkhQIUwiIGHnnFgHbnwJoTenS3RvxShNUlolZz8dCgO2Rh2zHF8523chXJvnycPBMFSIZ2OGcgzmhPakmnWBLU9PpBuprBCh0zFqqm2tfysDDWMk2A3u/w640-h360/DB2024AU00060_large.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-64903925524727050932024-02-21T09:34:00.006+00:002024-02-21T09:34:26.516+00:00VW adds ID.7 Tourer detail<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nWcmXXvLZfweVfb2vv479lbsrgC5r_QNB24J9Xy1dZ4Jmj1Zwrb6VftP1x78mn4dWQdqdQttbVLVpsASNSVog_uVxWZycTAKsQq5XWZeQeYJ_DhNkaoWmP4-ySeole9BSmJUbvkJC67fQ4C-Bkz8KUASYEEtD1bW2zwdlH1QiguuaSMaN8_3/s1730/VWid7TourerSide.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="973" data-original-width="1730" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nWcmXXvLZfweVfb2vv479lbsrgC5r_QNB24J9Xy1dZ4Jmj1Zwrb6VftP1x78mn4dWQdqdQttbVLVpsASNSVog_uVxWZycTAKsQq5XWZeQeYJ_DhNkaoWmP4-ySeole9BSmJUbvkJC67fQ4C-Bkz8KUASYEEtD1bW2zwdlH1QiguuaSMaN8_3/w640-h360/VWid7TourerSide.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Volkswagen have revealed further details of their upcoming ID.7 Tourer, the company's first all-electric estate car, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>In the same size space as the combustion-engined Passat Variant, the flagship Volkswagen EV will be available with two battery options, offering a rated range of up to 685km.</p><p>With five people on board the ID.7 Tourer will have a capacity of 605L for their baggage.</p><p>Standard features will include an augmented head-up display, while options of massage seat and a panoramic roof with 'smart' glass that automatically darkens in sunlight will also be available. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk-PNWmzjbZxCge0lZjwbhenRW3YYiq7_TGidjctQsAuhQrKcD6GWvi2T14lgMWcpnv3_OZSlPek0ZhLFwxlqtXvwH_rxEen0BlKfiYPolFf3TbQrYF6ojP1dY8LyS-3Z36ICFHzQ_a_kAR_BWLDQjMc_TYXLeL8-tqFfVaQ1nhE0Bc7lxJYe/s1890/VWid7TourerDash.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1890" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk-PNWmzjbZxCge0lZjwbhenRW3YYiq7_TGidjctQsAuhQrKcD6GWvi2T14lgMWcpnv3_OZSlPek0ZhLFwxlqtXvwH_rxEen0BlKfiYPolFf3TbQrYF6ojP1dY8LyS-3Z36ICFHzQ_a_kAR_BWLDQjMc_TYXLeL8-tqFfVaQ1nhE0Bc7lxJYe/w640-h360/VWid7TourerDash.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXyVN5SUhziw7D8Jw0u0fJkDNV8ue75BFVz3X0CvxpIMtecehgiCbi3DqR2vLQJ0zXA4fi8yzxJTTyYqEApQlMwLLy3gwFsEhpKU-Uorpr4ZyfwlhBj7ITrzeYXP-R7ze10_SbC0KyOQGIIUkPGmqF3-TgaAh6jHX45eU-DERhUSbTDNXFA04/s1890/VWid7TourerRear.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1890" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXyVN5SUhziw7D8Jw0u0fJkDNV8ue75BFVz3X0CvxpIMtecehgiCbi3DqR2vLQJ0zXA4fi8yzxJTTyYqEApQlMwLLy3gwFsEhpKU-Uorpr4ZyfwlhBj7ITrzeYXP-R7ze10_SbC0KyOQGIIUkPGmqF3-TgaAh6jHX45eU-DERhUSbTDNXFA04/w640-h360/VWid7TourerRear.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-89876244084252096082024-02-21T09:18:00.007+00:002024-02-21T09:18:37.802+00:00Dacia Spring here in summer<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2GvfxW32tNeuj5Q4edJrJ_4QdFHd9rvOyhYrob5tSQ4gDtb_6Q9cR-GIgqfkhyTMwjHwjK8wVagJzz9cJerrsxeUxS71jDQYEK34ob9DIYtspXyAO1HVAXWsyHEf1SsN500fczHSygtX44kAclgvxRqsgrvdtxnkyNDkddWuDwGm7KAyD55iE/s1088/DaciaSpring02-21%20at%2009.12.57.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="1088" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2GvfxW32tNeuj5Q4edJrJ_4QdFHd9rvOyhYrob5tSQ4gDtb_6Q9cR-GIgqfkhyTMwjHwjK8wVagJzz9cJerrsxeUxS71jDQYEK34ob9DIYtspXyAO1HVAXWsyHEf1SsN500fczHSygtX44kAclgvxRqsgrvdtxnkyNDkddWuDwGm7KAyD55iE/w640-h360/DaciaSpring02-21%20at%2009.12.57.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Dacia Spring electric car will be opening for orders in Ireland in the spring, with a planned market launch this summer, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>. Sold in European markets since 2021, the Spring will come in RHD form with updated styling, interior and powertrain.<p></p><p>The Spring is aimed at owners who do mainly urban and local driving, with the option of 45hp and 65hp motors, a rated range of some 220km, and energy consumption of 14.6kWh/100km or lower. Regenerative braking has also been added to the specification. Charging from 20pc-100pc is 11 hours on a domestic outlet, 4 hours from a 7kW home wallbox. A fast-charge capability is an optional extra.</p><p>There will be three grades, the topmost one including a central infotainment screen. Pricing not yet released for the Irish market. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrrC0PKzHtAtjD0Jeemnl6vszTM0B6TJRsO0o8GWG0svTZH3go3ZFC6rssID3n0ePoSRT6tiQiGzT9sDbbrh_ahjhWEaQXBT8_-zFoN4kxEvX3ezXaQPGQI77RAqC387Ef5UfDwTRWkCG5Ie6djhAo5s8PTLEtIi59II7QOXWt3ci9mOjpm8Db/s1118/DaciaSpring02-21%20at%2009.12.31.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="629" data-original-width="1118" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrrC0PKzHtAtjD0Jeemnl6vszTM0B6TJRsO0o8GWG0svTZH3go3ZFC6rssID3n0ePoSRT6tiQiGzT9sDbbrh_ahjhWEaQXBT8_-zFoN4kxEvX3ezXaQPGQI77RAqC387Ef5UfDwTRWkCG5Ie6djhAo5s8PTLEtIi59II7QOXWt3ci9mOjpm8Db/w640-h360/DaciaSpring02-21%20at%2009.12.31.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Qz6nci6kGQ6C-WGxDSqZD1-DzefuXBww4rfGT9WMLpTT_4tJxVET3Ti3ZTpws7bjzLjvICqsTdIarpQZUvCQYAXQFAIK1pRE25L9QA2eWTzMLlqBAQd4KxAP9N4bkA27FVOOLN5RdOeYGuGoezlJIEt_IWM5ZZVKo2UAYD_PTLsEDM_OPBkS/s1908/DaciaSpring02-21%20at%2009.12.43.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1073" data-original-width="1908" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Qz6nci6kGQ6C-WGxDSqZD1-DzefuXBww4rfGT9WMLpTT_4tJxVET3Ti3ZTpws7bjzLjvICqsTdIarpQZUvCQYAXQFAIK1pRE25L9QA2eWTzMLlqBAQd4KxAP9N4bkA27FVOOLN5RdOeYGuGoezlJIEt_IWM5ZZVKo2UAYD_PTLsEDM_OPBkS/w640-h360/DaciaSpring02-21%20at%2009.12.43.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzz4jCljozE7HhDcDJI1C4k190wDfrn9AONubPraazRb3Ze9fWRlPwYK9teAFqxQYzPbL6nhB5qALwRVeFScaKQrnaAC5CYlzUwImlu9gJtNCSlwMiWxF09IkJu3bRcFysciZMGlIEon-MrOWSgoevG7bcGOKpkZuy30Wy_G1Nkko8yIqXCrJJ/s1088/DaciaSpring02-21%20at%2009.13.03.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="1088" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzz4jCljozE7HhDcDJI1C4k190wDfrn9AONubPraazRb3Ze9fWRlPwYK9teAFqxQYzPbL6nhB5qALwRVeFScaKQrnaAC5CYlzUwImlu9gJtNCSlwMiWxF09IkJu3bRcFysciZMGlIEon-MrOWSgoevG7bcGOKpkZuy30Wy_G1Nkko8yIqXCrJJ/w640-h360/DaciaSpring02-21%20at%2009.13.03.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-11165157707731382982024-02-20T13:53:00.002+00:002024-02-20T13:53:58.266+00:00Kia EV9, Driven in Two Minutes<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/18kYTDVVv-g?si=CunrLQcSp9zmV5kE" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe><div>The <b>Kia EV9</b> is perhaps the biggest EV statement in Ireland to date, both in style and size. A large beast by any measure, it leaves behind in the ICE age even the Range Rover Sport and the BMW X5. <b>Brian Byrne</b> gives his two-minute take on it. <i>A <b>Rough & Ready Production</b> for <b>Irish Car</b>.</i></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-20193483748882025332024-02-17T14:17:00.000+00:002024-02-17T14:17:08.562+00:00Toyota Aygo Review: Trish Whelan, Irish Car<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeyrRZ_wWIJy5BRaJavXe_vGUyB9Qlcj5wv2EHW7un4hZnPH5LM6uwR5KuvTYv-FjqgsMjWIE400PbrX3-LNaQz_4fu3yJHiKFFPBJTosJb5B3eBaORhV5AowPYc8fONiTBUrDzmCBnVYXHIB8U7OxFjPuX7kDx9VbI5gBc0ajd4Gj2ofxSGr-w/s4032/Aygo%20X-frontview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeyrRZ_wWIJy5BRaJavXe_vGUyB9Qlcj5wv2EHW7un4hZnPH5LM6uwR5KuvTYv-FjqgsMjWIE400PbrX3-LNaQz_4fu3yJHiKFFPBJTosJb5B3eBaORhV5AowPYc8fONiTBUrDzmCBnVYXHIB8U7OxFjPuX7kDx9VbI5gBc0ajd4Gj2ofxSGr-w/w640-h480/Aygo%20X-frontview.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Toyota Aygo X, introduced in March 2022, is the Japanese carmaker’s smallest car on sale in Europe replacing the previous Aygo city car. It could be claimed the ‘X’ (pronounced Cross) is actually a new model in itself as there are many differences between both cars. <div><br /></div><div>Agyo X differs from the previous model as it is built on the platform first introduced with the brand’s new Yaris and more recently with the Yaris Cross hybrid SUV. The car is styled as a mini crossover for city streets but with the design cues of an off-roader with its rugged looks. But an SUV it is not! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwcnz8wAyXaD9OJquUZkxADC8GG7gZzITmCaiW2gFnLI4-AX3J74GjVdYI9GiQHvsWQ43Rir_tnk0rcPVmXoRzEUd0wEPwXdWyj_mkoOZJEQWxhmjGXjdaeUwhUnq5MvSuDzFqIYHRvjpvojQSivaTHNQT_gqhwtR9ZOjJOVvgxyooDpO1GAEBg/s4032/Aygo%20X-frontsideview.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwcnz8wAyXaD9OJquUZkxADC8GG7gZzITmCaiW2gFnLI4-AX3J74GjVdYI9GiQHvsWQ43Rir_tnk0rcPVmXoRzEUd0wEPwXdWyj_mkoOZJEQWxhmjGXjdaeUwhUnq5MvSuDzFqIYHRvjpvojQSivaTHNQT_gqhwtR9ZOjJOVvgxyooDpO1GAEBg/w640-h480/Aygo%20X-frontsideview.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The exterior look of my top spec Limited version was enhanced by special edition colours of green-black with lots of contrasting bright orange accents both inside and out that added a bit of extra spice to the overall look. You can choose your spice from the sharp kick of Chill Red to Tarragon Green, or Ginger Beige. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3iyYEdFmVGSJgJ3Li2HAuAydtzs0jz91i1qSHVceYT0CJu1V-1SO_Bq4Sk2kWToU0SzQ1i1cKy7apbvX1m5GFWeTOxcOiIijKeXLal27Xhcwc-TqbSAbVsTb50pCHOuhVvD0snOMRpZ0MKnlqibKQkq7D_01zRrlfUFTv4VgOu7SaDjPbjoSJw/s4032/Aygo%20X-interior.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT3iyYEdFmVGSJgJ3Li2HAuAydtzs0jz91i1qSHVceYT0CJu1V-1SO_Bq4Sk2kWToU0SzQ1i1cKy7apbvX1m5GFWeTOxcOiIijKeXLal27Xhcwc-TqbSAbVsTb50pCHOuhVvD0snOMRpZ0MKnlqibKQkq7D_01zRrlfUFTv4VgOu7SaDjPbjoSJw/w640-h480/Aygo%20X-interior.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />At 3.7 metres long, this is a brilliant little motor for navigating city streets, with its tight turning circle, and easily fits into tight urban spaces. Customers can make a personal statement with their car as there are quite a few customising options to choose from. On top of all that, Aygo X is also a fun car to enjoy, putting a smile on my face every morning. I just wanted to get in and drive it. </div><div><br /></div><div>The car is longer, wider and taller than the previous iterations of the nameplate. The car's slightly raised driving position makes it easy to get in and out of and also provides decent visibility, helped by the narrow front windscreen pillars. Thickish B-pillars block your side view, though.
The interior is cheerful and colourful with strong curves on the dash and door trims. Orange accents appear throughout, even on the piping of the sporty seats which were nice and comfy and offered good support. The driver’s seat gets manual seat adjustments but the front passenger’s seat has no height adjustment setting, not great for tall people. Front seats can be heated. There's fair elbow room up front but there's very little leg room in the rear for an adult seated behind a tall person. Children, though, will have no such bother. Small rear side windows are hinged to open outwards, making the rear a bit claustrophobic for some. </div><div><br /></div><div>The boot capacity is 231 litres — which makes it a useful space for more than a few shopping bags, as was the case in the previous Aygo. That suggests the designers opted for more boot space over rear legroom. </div><div><br /></div><div>The dash is dominated by the stylish central infotainment screen which starts at 7-inches on the entry-level models but which can be upgraded to 9-inches. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard which allows you to mirror your phone onto the screen for entertainment, navigation and communications. The instrument cluster provides all the information you require. There are physical climate control knobs and buttons.
Cubbies include a bucket-type glovebox, two cupholders and good front door bins. There is no front armrest. You’ll find a USB port and a 12-volt power socket in the front — there are none in the rear, just a 12-volt socket. </div><div><br /></div><div>On the technology front, Toyota’s Smart Connect seamlessly keeps your phone and car in sync. This feature is only available on the near top Envy grade as is a wireless phone charger. I found the rear view camera worked fine on dull days but the view fades somewhat when reversing in bright sunshine. </div><div><br /></div><div>The entry level Pulse trim gets 17-inch alloy wheels, a tyre repair kit, rear view camera; the mid Design spec adds a contrast roof colour, rear privacy glass, a CVT automatic transmission option, and bigger touchscreen, while the Envy adds 18-inch bi-tone alloys, climate control, blue ambient lighting. </div><div><br /></div><div>Besides its special exterior paintwork and contrasting black roof, my Limited trim car had orange inserts on its black alloy and front and rear parking sensors.
Toyota Safety Sense includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. </div><div><br /></div><div>Power is from a 1.0, three-cylinder petrol engine outputting 72hp and 93Nm torque, and mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. Toyota claim a combined fuel consumption of 4.8 L/100kms which compares favourably with the 4.5 L/100kms (63mpg) achieved for my week with the car.
The little engine takes around 15 seconds to go from 0-100km/h, but it is actually a fun car to drive when you rev up the engine. Besides its city driving credentials, I found the car also works fairly well for long distances. </div><div><br /></div><div>Aygo X is produced in Toyota’s manufacturing plant in the Czech Republic and was awarded a four-star safety rating by Euro NCAP in 2022.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJtJ7gbQRKpjiE_Y6EigLJ304PwS_pwN2uVEZ0PHxfG4A7muIzeh2dxv1AbbzA3qr5BY_ID7emDeypuWBJ1L0UvakhmeQA-gWA7OR-wMd5soLjWh5FoCdbCv5nUUHHrDazJJGhtXxQ7mIwxJSenaHncHeOU0uSEqOMIMFYizNjOkJs-fOXlfpLg/s4032/Aygo%20X-rearview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJtJ7gbQRKpjiE_Y6EigLJ304PwS_pwN2uVEZ0PHxfG4A7muIzeh2dxv1AbbzA3qr5BY_ID7emDeypuWBJ1L0UvakhmeQA-gWA7OR-wMd5soLjWh5FoCdbCv5nUUHHrDazJJGhtXxQ7mIwxJSenaHncHeOU0uSEqOMIMFYizNjOkJs-fOXlfpLg/w640-h480/Aygo%20X-rearview.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p> </p></div>Trishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17313574609293725300noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-30384650836834732292024-02-14T09:22:00.010+00:002024-02-14T09:22:59.473+00:00Skoda tweaks Octavia for 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pMy70zud-08N2nW7TUwTWm88MJD-mDG5U_-tSge8TGpJNbPunn2DnpFhqFpM5hO98fr9ZDHHVgUBeuQRMnp6mHJODjxX11n_ylNXiSv6sLjyvS-fxMRN5jxVew6TVjcirFzILTJtJ2UVRbS5MfiALKaZ_7NsD3wOUfclt4iLLWGvvU94gkxK/s1531/15_skoda_octavia_2f655d7d-1920x1080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="861" data-original-width="1531" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pMy70zud-08N2nW7TUwTWm88MJD-mDG5U_-tSge8TGpJNbPunn2DnpFhqFpM5hO98fr9ZDHHVgUBeuQRMnp6mHJODjxX11n_ylNXiSv6sLjyvS-fxMRN5jxVew6TVjcirFzILTJtJ2UVRbS5MfiALKaZ_7NsD3wOUfclt4iLLWGvvU94gkxK/w640-h360/15_skoda_octavia_2f655d7d-1920x1080.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Skoda are refreshing their best-seller Octavia model for 2024, with exterior and interior tweaks of their fourth-generation version, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>The main outside upgrades include redesigned front a rear aprons and an updated Skoda grille, with more advanced LED Matrix headlights.</p><p>The inside gets a 10-inch digital display, an optional 13-inch centre screen, and recycled fabrics and an option of sustainably treated leather.</p><p>An AI-based chatbot will be integrated at a later date to the Laura voice assistant. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qrj2Jq6LME8Xayjg3xO5q_TgHyOiEuS1xbbd3c-mxzX8QXC18YevbpetfZyuadrzYD758eNq1H3cF8o7onzyWTA5B651_GxPIvyZ-Yh-OfCW4u1Ek6pZmuuZg0prSyB3IVBAS_2OcTKF2wJPAy-tNir_e_szmXiov9avXd0x1HW3J0cbA1tN/s1531/12_skoda_octavia_combi_4c0ee766-1920x1281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="861" data-original-width="1531" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1qrj2Jq6LME8Xayjg3xO5q_TgHyOiEuS1xbbd3c-mxzX8QXC18YevbpetfZyuadrzYD758eNq1H3cF8o7onzyWTA5B651_GxPIvyZ-Yh-OfCW4u1Ek6pZmuuZg0prSyB3IVBAS_2OcTKF2wJPAy-tNir_e_szmXiov9avXd0x1HW3J0cbA1tN/w640-h360/12_skoda_octavia_combi_4c0ee766-1920x1281.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCw6TgEWhv8nGf8S_6fyOanBt-5YT-IMTkLfIiTLATsX8ykPxjSBy5yOIzlduDuAL7ETq2IXDgn6Y1pni18RRocNUgcppmeqRmpGAuyWEqTjQP4UgDNUZB63dH0nZRPneNwd2TnDJ3KKQnuYC-gCavy9s3fmXafkyms4kWRF2o9qDm18CJ4EAF/s1531/23_skoda_octavia_3618d64c-1920x1281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="861" data-original-width="1531" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCw6TgEWhv8nGf8S_6fyOanBt-5YT-IMTkLfIiTLATsX8ykPxjSBy5yOIzlduDuAL7ETq2IXDgn6Y1pni18RRocNUgcppmeqRmpGAuyWEqTjQP4UgDNUZB63dH0nZRPneNwd2TnDJ3KKQnuYC-gCavy9s3fmXafkyms4kWRF2o9qDm18CJ4EAF/w640-h360/23_skoda_octavia_3618d64c-1920x1281.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijANGvSLceNcpNWfLeWorpMBnd4kmfjqmCDPAodqpgl-mF67b2CpvfPwq2PcADp1S_Xkyyrprg-1CShCuy3V3it1YhXZQhUU6XNsw4VhuIkpLluwC7hFRWsceS07Mh5OAMSoFccOgch-lgacyTZPRVIUe6852JT0otgFYj_OkTDdDrhPS9a31O/s1531/24_skoda_octavia_3eaab1e4-1920x1281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="861" data-original-width="1531" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijANGvSLceNcpNWfLeWorpMBnd4kmfjqmCDPAodqpgl-mF67b2CpvfPwq2PcADp1S_Xkyyrprg-1CShCuy3V3it1YhXZQhUU6XNsw4VhuIkpLluwC7hFRWsceS07Mh5OAMSoFccOgch-lgacyTZPRVIUe6852JT0otgFYj_OkTDdDrhPS9a31O/w640-h360/24_skoda_octavia_3eaab1e4-1920x1281.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-18251756428642263912024-02-13T14:37:00.003+00:002024-02-13T14:37:37.228+00:00Opel and Peugeot EVs debut at Nevo EV Show<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0U665ONxjAmRo1rJvCHK1X6vjETwnC38FBAE-nLwWr06HaopuzkyrWI6VkEVoWH2BTkcqHkypWbzFYB45Iv2D7MDDS98sFfLB_d95hlcQIXtejYBBbFNr2Zq765SRFTpT302FSLzkaX_waXr5M8PODUhVfmoJVLfARTzv16AzWrR7t5o5rovU/s2229/Astra1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1254" data-original-width="2229" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0U665ONxjAmRo1rJvCHK1X6vjETwnC38FBAE-nLwWr06HaopuzkyrWI6VkEVoWH2BTkcqHkypWbzFYB45Iv2D7MDDS98sFfLB_d95hlcQIXtejYBBbFNr2Zq765SRFTpT302FSLzkaX_waXr5M8PODUhVfmoJVLfARTzv16AzWrR7t5o5rovU/w640-h360/Astra1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />A number of new and revised electric cars will get their Irish debut at the Nevo Electric Vehicle Show this coming Saturday, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>. They will include the electric version of Opel's Astra, an electric Peugeot 308 and a refreshed Peugeot E-208.<p></p><p>More than 20 brands will be showing their electric models, at Dublin's RDS. Entry is free, but those going must register for tickets at Nevo.ie.</p><p>The new Astra Electric, offering a rated range of up to 418km on a full charge, is available in three trims and will retail from €39,598 including applicable grants. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvhfomuO3ZrFENIUeO6mUxxffHulnSxQ0I6ksR72UcBBbZt-PPtV1Qy6vB4HbUfH98iyXrLHu7k0oIsnJnyVVJrVmQ8SjsW4BhiGIJsLkdL3x5v4Aru8aB3k4NDFQ3apn9iM88J5q3AKtzHpCQP2D1uRVKU4yvtWDJnce3NKmQz26R6uAvQDu/s1835/PEUGEOT_e308_FE_2022_006_FR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="1835" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjvhfomuO3ZrFENIUeO6mUxxffHulnSxQ0I6ksR72UcBBbZt-PPtV1Qy6vB4HbUfH98iyXrLHu7k0oIsnJnyVVJrVmQ8SjsW4BhiGIJsLkdL3x5v4Aru8aB3k4NDFQ3apn9iM88J5q3AKtzHpCQP2D1uRVKU4yvtWDJnce3NKmQz26R6uAvQDu/w640-h360/PEUGEOT_e308_FE_2022_006_FR.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The E-308 will be available in hatchback and wagon formats, with a rated range of 413km. Prices will be revealed at the Nevo show. The revised E-208 gets an extended range to a rated 400km, and also detail exterior changes. Inside there's a new design for the digital instrument cluster. Prices start at €31,035 including incentives. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwkJ5HJpuHRVj1ZdMkaizfuOp-xZkSOnTb3eOyUa66kQxxcONcvUWZahS145iw_2HXiVZFpQPXQccyMf1UPuFYVHubHLpE2YMi0gnsb8q4cwX8Paq9R4hBIFC1qGz870O3rnVEJ39y4phwQLW9tvKUnQSZVcLd5Sei_xiOY7X1odRAT5NZTKu/s1835/PEUGEOT_E_208_2023_208_FR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="1835" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwkJ5HJpuHRVj1ZdMkaizfuOp-xZkSOnTb3eOyUa66kQxxcONcvUWZahS145iw_2HXiVZFpQPXQccyMf1UPuFYVHubHLpE2YMi0gnsb8q4cwX8Paq9R4hBIFC1qGz870O3rnVEJ39y4phwQLW9tvKUnQSZVcLd5Sei_xiOY7X1odRAT5NZTKu/w640-h360/PEUGEOT_E_208_2023_208_FR.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-38923127478728768202024-02-12T09:50:00.001+00:002024-02-21T09:53:01.226+00:00Touring version of BMW 5 Series now available<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcklrNiVmpBeOu91Ezo7MhgiJyqsRLOZc_ghs0194_sCABp4fN2w93gJja_fblqN0tt38bwgk4tMF4yttKKc6hXZ1PuGY7Kd-mLSCE9tLjO6BTZa5PBzcP2PvLJ5BLpDFURzd072kdXdMKzG-NChNuosuHKNETztdpgBdsi3M6rMUfw3_yoRO/s3549/BMW5seriesTour7255_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-edriv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1996" data-original-width="3549" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcklrNiVmpBeOu91Ezo7MhgiJyqsRLOZc_ghs0194_sCABp4fN2w93gJja_fblqN0tt38bwgk4tMF4yttKKc6hXZ1PuGY7Kd-mLSCE9tLjO6BTZa5PBzcP2PvLJ5BLpDFURzd072kdXdMKzG-NChNuosuHKNETztdpgBdsi3M6rMUfw3_yoRO/w640-h360/BMW5seriesTour7255_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-edriv.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />A new Touring estate version of the latest BMW 5 Series is available to order at a starting price of €92,880, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>. The car comes in both battery-electric and combustion engine formats.<p></p><p>The vehicle will be available in four distinct trim levels in Ireland, Sport Edition, M Sport, M Sport Pro and the range-topping i5 M60 models.</p><p>Ireland will be one of the first markets to launch the all-electric model in May 2024, with the plug-in hybrid offering coming later in the year.</p><p>The i5 Touring will come with 340hp and 601hp (M60) power outputs, while the 530e PHEV will have 299hp. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcFzrpNHU5udNGfWtEmt9TQoNMeDPG36AAVX86L-kdec3jfWiQ9KdQkHmar8NtJNgC2CphJRKPzqoopeM3bOfrT7FfU0obRtlfqQ2Thc9JkmHq5ti2CCC9M8g95S7Qz2nbKbWMug7gXO_S2z6Jbif_qtv76j1kp-ScvYkd37DQ3iNN6ri9tJjL/s5668/BMW5seriesTour6875_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-edriv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3188" data-original-width="5668" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcFzrpNHU5udNGfWtEmt9TQoNMeDPG36AAVX86L-kdec3jfWiQ9KdQkHmar8NtJNgC2CphJRKPzqoopeM3bOfrT7FfU0obRtlfqQ2Thc9JkmHq5ti2CCC9M8g95S7Qz2nbKbWMug7gXO_S2z6Jbif_qtv76j1kp-ScvYkd37DQ3iNN6ri9tJjL/w640-h360/BMW5seriesTour6875_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-edriv.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJiFFliCBM23i8y_G78tavIp5D_rjIf092sdkeUCyV48559cR6xpsXUgXUzwxMNmIIvKBJuyUBVvkPPuUuaUhDm0AFHSKUNyHLu-fDOc2pwkWm7BKtSR8vsEkoKwJd7km7Lxj2KLETQmxNrXkPe5mdsIa-saqEHMFIIfojAdVWMiOPK3IzuUS/s3549/BMW5seriesTour7262_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-edriv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1996" data-original-width="3549" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLJiFFliCBM23i8y_G78tavIp5D_rjIf092sdkeUCyV48559cR6xpsXUgXUzwxMNmIIvKBJuyUBVvkPPuUuaUhDm0AFHSKUNyHLu-fDOc2pwkWm7BKtSR8vsEkoKwJd7km7Lxj2KLETQmxNrXkPe5mdsIa-saqEHMFIIfojAdVWMiOPK3IzuUS/w640-h360/BMW5seriesTour7262_highRes_the-new-bmw-i5-edriv.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-20758840475001523172024-02-09T16:44:00.000+00:002024-02-09T16:44:21.681+00:00Skoda Octavia Sportline review: Trish Whelan, Irish Car<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwtOWimWMPo-LkBSDKJp72cfv0SyQur8XscS9inZd8Ap2E7kLo6uv4y-lqnlxkPPojtXd4XCvnoFApkoutS8EATZS4pReQhwdHCTahaUH7vIMfjTju2M51mNmRhLwmA-NxiWEutuIJSoUnzskMtPwytE-ngi7EOKpth2HiWGmKJpntDlv7cUZCg/s4032/Skoda-Octavia-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwtOWimWMPo-LkBSDKJp72cfv0SyQur8XscS9inZd8Ap2E7kLo6uv4y-lqnlxkPPojtXd4XCvnoFApkoutS8EATZS4pReQhwdHCTahaUH7vIMfjTju2M51mNmRhLwmA-NxiWEutuIJSoUnzskMtPwytE-ngi7EOKpth2HiWGmKJpntDlv7cUZCg/w640-h480/Skoda-Octavia-front.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Skoda’s Octavia model, introduced here in 1998, has been particularly successful in rural Ireland with its competitive price, efficient diesel engines, build quality and durability.
The current Skoda Octavia family consists of the Octavia Sportline and the Combi estate. The Octavia RS TDI diesel (€47,845) will cease production in early 2024. <div><br /></div><div>My latest Skoda test drive was in the special Octavia Sportline hatchback.
From the outside, this fourth generation Octavia is a sleek family car that is longer and wider than the previous model. It almost resembles a coupe for styling with beautifully balanced proportions and is one of the most aerodynamic cars in its segment with an impressive 0.24 drag coefficient.
The suspension has been lowered by 15mm which improves handling. In addition to from some special features, the Sportline logo adorns both front wings. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW_MXUCPWnUHcvbIsulvVtU_PNYwc8sP56hwXeBnRBm8eNk0z3dbDpHg6WZOWdt6Lu7PMw0QvrzuSRPm-pHXhhHcLMb59q4qNtedqf5Gd804HPBxEq3oVbF1y5oTF3MleDLr8zIjKcg2o0u3pEc3ur0CDV5X9H6SDhYgXj2ZOiWWmura9buBN51A/s4032/Skoda-Octavia_Sportline-interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW_MXUCPWnUHcvbIsulvVtU_PNYwc8sP56hwXeBnRBm8eNk0z3dbDpHg6WZOWdt6Lu7PMw0QvrzuSRPm-pHXhhHcLMb59q4qNtedqf5Gd804HPBxEq3oVbF1y5oTF3MleDLr8zIjKcg2o0u3pEc3ur0CDV5X9H6SDhYgXj2ZOiWWmura9buBN51A/w640-h480/Skoda-Octavia_Sportline-interior.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />The spacious interior allows five adults to travel in comfort. Sports seats with integrated headrests are upholstered in nice dark fabric but I really expected a bit more sporty flair to the interior. Seats are comfy and front ones can be heated. That said, there was a good bit of piano black trim and nice tweed-like material across the dash but really nothing exceptional. Still, all very practical materials that should wear well for a family car, which is absolutely fine.
There’s huge room in the rear where the middle seat is of a good size. However, as this is an ICE powered car, there is a transmission tunnel for the person seated in that middle seat to have to contend with. You’ll find pockets on the backs of the front seats and a special little pocket for your mobile phone and some small USB C ports. </div><div><br /></div><div>Centre dash are two large 10.25-inch digital screen displays that are easy to use. Both with lovely graphics. A lot of features are controlled through the big infotainment screen including ventilation (there are no physical buttons for the climate control) but you always see the dual zone temperature readings on the screen so can fairly easily adjust the settings while on the move. There are also short cut buttons below this screen. As there is no volume control knob, you swipe across a touch slider instead. I really prefer knobs for volume. Features include gesture and voice control.
A phone box with wireless charging, 2 USB-C ports, a 230 V socket and a small USB C in the rear-view mirror for if you use a dash cam, help keep you connected. </div><div><br /></div><div>Cubbies are a jumbo sized box in the adjustable armrest between the front seats, a decent glovebox and good sized door bins that come carpeted.
Other features are a good reversing camera and parking sensors, but alas, no blind spot cover. I turned off the loud lane departure warning alerts that often came on even when I was driving in the centre of my lane.
Boot space is a generous 600 litres which is just 40 litres less than the Octavia Combi estate version. With rear seats folded this extends to a huge 1555 litres. You can lower the back seats using levers on the sides of the car. A handy double-sided boot liner has a washable surface on one side and carpeting on the other. The spec included an electric tailgate and spare wheel. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPOuE-LCHfQCLvK3rW7mFpzKkcsQQ7P5pa0TFpQ3kgFSsvhoEq6CYL3KaHYdVbZeoT9rVe8_tIMBi0PsuIJdAzE9PipXOu6LSEQ3d_TCxntz5QsLkFWOl2_TtiCbuK9OWf_tTyhopyb5pPZ-qaApZogJcmy5lMWL20GLdBaIMrvNKSujNc_IBNug/s4032/Skoda-Octavia-sideview.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPOuE-LCHfQCLvK3rW7mFpzKkcsQQ7P5pa0TFpQ3kgFSsvhoEq6CYL3KaHYdVbZeoT9rVe8_tIMBi0PsuIJdAzE9PipXOu6LSEQ3d_TCxntz5QsLkFWOl2_TtiCbuK9OWf_tTyhopyb5pPZ-qaApZogJcmy5lMWL20GLdBaIMrvNKSujNc_IBNug/w640-h480/Skoda-Octavia-sideview.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Transmissions are 6-speed manuals and 7-speed DSG automatics. My car was the 1.5 TSi turbo petrol version with 150hp mated to a lovely 6-speed manual gearbox and returning an official fuel return of 5.6/100kms. Torque is 250Nm and road tax €200. During my lengthy time with the car, I achieved 5.8 L/100kms which is plenty frugal for a car this size. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_1uJSnmx6OEUQFDMjnDPGwdBeryIiMaYn1Iq91f_w1cGWCKAxR8AGmyFsOJJi36kw8iD6f4we9zOem1mA3JTMmD8ZMmpRbUZ2dhfNjc6xcpUhzj7y1fZyeMOo8wbEKyyteYMnZNLBcPqPMWPj88CFtleWAVHfmpmwgs1pqyNDfcuaiJYRe4SAA/s4032/Skoda-Octavia-tailgate.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_1uJSnmx6OEUQFDMjnDPGwdBeryIiMaYn1Iq91f_w1cGWCKAxR8AGmyFsOJJi36kw8iD6f4we9zOem1mA3JTMmD8ZMmpRbUZ2dhfNjc6xcpUhzj7y1fZyeMOo8wbEKyyteYMnZNLBcPqPMWPj88CFtleWAVHfmpmwgs1pqyNDfcuaiJYRe4SAA/w640-h480/Skoda-Octavia-tailgate.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />On the road, I found the steering a bit on the light side but soon became used to it and appreciated the car’s great drivability and handling. I noticed the petrol gauge hardly moved until after a few days of driving.
In 2022, Octavia was awarded the maximum 5-star safety rating in Euro NCAP crash tests. </div><div><br /></div><div>Priced from: €30,245. My test car €40,700 + Metallic paint</div><div><p> </p></div>Trishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17313574609293725300noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-88919162014286960122024-02-09T15:01:00.002+00:002024-02-14T11:44:37.889+00:00Two new petrol Mini Coopers<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5BFxLwL5KYIaUJAymw1qBvmjSj7rWRrv6TEl5uts-2QBGoawaE-xntclpeaMqNbHShMmztieGqUvhT8jrH8RUcKoz48mpBS-BDrhuegeSqX-A6M0DqOYa178m6iMk5_lRBOLMHIe8N5JzPHdTty4I2PwSmdTb4GfONPhcVypzgNYICD_aaQ_/s2900/The%20all-new%20MINI%20Cooper%203.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1631" data-original-width="2900" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5BFxLwL5KYIaUJAymw1qBvmjSj7rWRrv6TEl5uts-2QBGoawaE-xntclpeaMqNbHShMmztieGqUvhT8jrH8RUcKoz48mpBS-BDrhuegeSqX-A6M0DqOYa178m6iMk5_lRBOLMHIe8N5JzPHdTty4I2PwSmdTb4GfONPhcVypzgNYICD_aaQ_/w640-h360/The%20all-new%20MINI%20Cooper%203.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Following the recent reveal of the Mini Cooper Electric, there are now new 3-door Mini Coopers coming available with petrol engines, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>.<p></p><p>Priced from €31,280, the Mini Cooper C and performance-enhanced S models will be delivered to first customers in the spring of this year. They are heavily revised third generation cars, as the new fourth generation model will be available in electric only.</p><p>The Mini Cooper C will have a 156hp 3-cylinder engine with a 7.7s sprint capability to 100km/h, while the new Cooper S version now with 205hp can do it in 6.6s. The Cooper S price is €37,740.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbHKj-5u9UjrIwXHrryWp0ABxUNwXpbsSkhlNyD8sBAsRS6W9f2Etdu1VvQGcu2gKGlPxrQu8BZQwlk_PjOi7GiZzpCrAsWjdsCMkUlyGL5C6R8rdt9iIotxJsx7yJuhNUho1gwncJrKj1aHUK2-n727E5t5mU8hiQBK9ubI7jfQEgguCymMb/s2900/The%20all-new%20MINI%20Cooper%202.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1631" data-original-width="2900" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrbHKj-5u9UjrIwXHrryWp0ABxUNwXpbsSkhlNyD8sBAsRS6W9f2Etdu1VvQGcu2gKGlPxrQu8BZQwlk_PjOi7GiZzpCrAsWjdsCMkUlyGL5C6R8rdt9iIotxJsx7yJuhNUho1gwncJrKj1aHUK2-n727E5t5mU8hiQBK9ubI7jfQEgguCymMb/w640-h360/The%20all-new%20MINI%20Cooper%202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDsHjzp3MNyUzCnHM_iv6X-5Z2yoUQWPsCSHsCKjPu9nhmmxm7W49QQBovfhZkrZMJclhutle3-NgOf2DJQH_K_HhpRfCHRZoiFtkCVqb77yjVkgAQ0qqkQ6RalZCoZDcl_FmEs8BhPhNOElfx4TQT_LH15Kpx2246MKNuqT19BGoYBy_RXWM/s3794/The%20all-new%20MINI%20Cooper.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2135" data-original-width="3794" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDsHjzp3MNyUzCnHM_iv6X-5Z2yoUQWPsCSHsCKjPu9nhmmxm7W49QQBovfhZkrZMJclhutle3-NgOf2DJQH_K_HhpRfCHRZoiFtkCVqb77yjVkgAQ0qqkQ6RalZCoZDcl_FmEs8BhPhNOElfx4TQT_LH15Kpx2246MKNuqT19BGoYBy_RXWM/w640-h360/The%20all-new%20MINI%20Cooper.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8108872.post-79883276027472194492024-02-08T11:24:00.002+00:002024-02-08T11:30:23.300+00:00Tesla Model Y review: Brian Byrne, Irish Car<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDH30UymIFpG_NXlOp6TjRADHZCv9l9vCPtqcXBm9ymlknOUBmPnZkCpgTvIhUmZar0P15p0Cz8IHZmxsK676NQ_Xg4spoDB-Qav2uFfQE2ukXqGpNPr1ixlq2tViOClv5K528zbX8gKWsHW8bl88pXXcohNLm8WzIFSrnFdCyIL_6KLEAUqde/s2000/TeslaYIMG_8049.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDH30UymIFpG_NXlOp6TjRADHZCv9l9vCPtqcXBm9ymlknOUBmPnZkCpgTvIhUmZar0P15p0Cz8IHZmxsK676NQ_Xg4spoDB-Qav2uFfQE2ukXqGpNPr1ixlq2tViOClv5K528zbX8gKWsHW8bl88pXXcohNLm8WzIFSrnFdCyIL_6KLEAUqde/w640-h360/TeslaYIMG_8049.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It's six years since I drove a Tesla seriously, <i>writes <b>Brian Byrne</b></i>, which seems an awful long time to not have reviewed something from a brand that last year was globally the 11th biggest car company by revenue and is acknowledged as the company leading the change to electric cars. A few short spins in a number of Tesla models in between didn't really count for review purposes.<p></p><p>The car I drove in 2018 was a Model S, at a time when the company only had two nameplates. It was a decent drive, when with colleague Trish Whelan we took an S <a href="https://irishcarman.blogspot.com/2018/02/an-electric-road-trip-with-tesla.html" target="_blank">from the snowy valley of Alpbach</a> in Austria to the February damp of Dublin, via the EuroTunnel and the UK and across from Holyhead in Wales. The idea was to show that an electric car, particularly a Tesla, could be used for a long road trip. The total journey was over 1,900km, of which 1,750km was actual driving. Thanks to the Tesla network of Superchargers across Europe even then, it was an easy and range anxiety-free trip. The journey's point was well proved.</p><p>My most recent experience was in the Model Y, which I coincidentally had out in the week that it was provisionally accorded the title of best-selling car in the world for 2023. So, interesting to see where the Tesla cars are with so many other EVs on the market now accelerating their own electric market ambition.</p><p>Visually, Teslas have a sameness. Smooth and streamlined curvy, it can be difficult to separate one moving model from the other on a quick glance. On the other hand, the brand as a whole is very easy to recognise. The style of my Model Y review car was nicely proportioned, looking like a very smart coupe saloon. A look that was deceptive, because in dimensions and interior measurements, it gets classed as a mid-size SUV at the larger end of the space. Though it doesn't appear so, it is for instance significantly larger than Ford's Mustang Mach-E and Volvo's XC60 and is wider than the Mercedes-Benz EQC. Mild side-panel sculpting and a long rear window sloping to an integrated spoiler on the hatch all help to make it seem a more compact car. </p><p>In technical terms, the Y is the SUV variant of the Model 3, currently the bread and butter of Tesla's not insignificant profits, and built on that car's basic platform. There are structural differences, though, with the Y inaugurating a new manufacturing technique of a single casting for the whole rear body of the car. This is saving in manufacturing costs, though there are fears that for consumers it could result in higher repair costs.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeABK6S_gKVR9-tURfBk5jJmT5RWbO2jImHTVQwV4yuYXC_IvVJqU0RWKXssyinnho3GNAMmCxCkTm3aRBVblL72v0-tcLm-WIiJa4GNXW5YBCwHAcnEH614hwD6S9xGQBKYYYomYQigLpa_7EV3iQIOFwWvtp8cabGWfqRFjWF_hGRjlP5TxN/s2000/TeslaYIMG_8772.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeABK6S_gKVR9-tURfBk5jJmT5RWbO2jImHTVQwV4yuYXC_IvVJqU0RWKXssyinnho3GNAMmCxCkTm3aRBVblL72v0-tcLm-WIiJa4GNXW5YBCwHAcnEH614hwD6S9xGQBKYYYomYQigLpa_7EV3iQIOFwWvtp8cabGWfqRFjWF_hGRjlP5TxN/w640-h360/TeslaYIMG_8772.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The exterior of the Tesla Y is a very clean shape, and that sense is brought through also to the interior. It's minimalist to a degree that is almost spartan. The only instrumentation is the large centre infotainment screen, and the only physical buttons are two on the steering wheel, which do multiple duties depending on what kind of adjustment you select on the screen. The same screen is divided, the side closest to the driver showing speed, location and whether or not there's other traffic nearby. The farther half is for managing everything else. Regular readers will know well my feelings on the distraction of having to manage running changes by screen, and the Tesla thinking does not change these. The positive is that the inbuilt navigation system is by Google.<p></p><p>The car is comfortable, and roomy for all five potential occupants — a 7-seat version is available only in the US. All materials used inside are said to be vegan-friendly, and the touch-test to any surfaces gave a positive result. Opening the door from inside is by electric button, but there's also a manual release in the event of power failure.</p><p>The powertrain is dual motors, giving all wheel drive and a very sporty 3.7 seconds sprint to 100km/h. I have long since become blasé about the capabilities of electric cars offering performances previously only possible from exotic supercars. Using that capability will munch through the battery range, though, rated at 514km but in real life probably around 460km on my experience. The handling of the Y while I had it was an impressive surprise. It is a sweet car to drive, and a really spot-on driving position and forward visibility helped no end to enjoy it.</p><p>The usual driver assistance tech is on board. The controversy over Tesla's idea of autonomous driving I avoided by simply not using it — whatever the car, I still like to drive it myself.</p><p>The best selling car in the world? Yes, I can see reasons why.</p><p><b><i>LOOK & LISTEN — <a href="https://youtu.be/pmrup4JL6Mo" target="_blank">Tesla Model Y: Driven in Two Minutes</a></i></b> </p><p><b><i></i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilj6Gis2fjq0NcbyzvGWuk3KgWazVEk7ZkvIk5-YEp9ko4Ok2aaRvYxE3xxF60kjVjo3aSMS0XTfoCh7aMSmKybFYmxeBQBaIJDtwCU5MYpp9FP040vQRmXPbySkpSZQGb30lyOjrplVsYxMsG7azFnu2GLJ5p6Yuv481YHy3qfnL_8JxUDThD/s2000/TeslaYIMG_8047.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="2000" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilj6Gis2fjq0NcbyzvGWuk3KgWazVEk7ZkvIk5-YEp9ko4Ok2aaRvYxE3xxF60kjVjo3aSMS0XTfoCh7aMSmKybFYmxeBQBaIJDtwCU5MYpp9FP040vQRmXPbySkpSZQGb30lyOjrplVsYxMsG7azFnu2GLJ5p6Yuv481YHy3qfnL_8JxUDThD/w640-h360/TeslaYIMG_8047.JPG" width="640" /></a></i></b></div><b><i><br />PRICE: From €42,990. WHAT I LIKED: The smooth and surprising experience. </i></b><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com