Schedule for Bavaria City Racing Dublin Track

With just three days to go until Bavaria City Racing Dublin takes over the streets of Dublin and transforms the city into a haven of Formula 1 and motorsport, here are the details on what the public can expect to see on Sunday next.

The event gets underway at 12 noon with five full hours of on-track entertainment. Dublin's city centre will be closed for the day to accommodate the city track which starts at the Convention Centre Dublin, continues along Customs House Quay before crossing Butt Bridge chicanes at D'Olier Street, zips past College Green and the Central Bank on Dame Street before reaching the chequered flag on O'Connell Bridge.

Former F1 World Champion Jenson Button will do three circuits of the track, one in the McLaren MP4 Supercar at 12:20 and two in his Vodafone McLaren F1 Car (13:20 and 14:35).

Giedo van der Garde, driver for the Caterham F1 team, will complete three circuits of the city track in his F1 car (14:00, 15:25 & 16:30). Also not to be missed is the Monster Street Mania (12:40 & 15:45) a spectacular series of choreographed stunts featuring legendary stunt drivers Terry Grant, Buttsy and Mattie Griffin.

The on-track schedule also features Irish Superbike star Eugene Laverty and his Aprilia team (13:40 & 16:20) and Irish AIGP world champion Adam Carroll in the 24hr Le Mans Spyker (12:30 & 15:05).

James wins Seat student design award

James Delaney, a third year student studying Visual Communications at the IADT Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, was the winner of the inaugural Seat Student Design Award.

James' winning project was entitled 'Seat Lab Experiment'. His designs will be brought to life by Seat and used in an upcoming social media campaign. James delivered a campaign concept that exceeded expectations of the organisers.

He was presented with a cheque by Adam Chamberlain, Brand Director ofSeat Ireland which will cover his college fees for 2013 and has been offered a three-month summer internship with Owen's DDB in Dublin.

Over sixty students participated in the competition.

Happy children, happy parents - Irish Ferries

When children are happy, their parents are happy. And the key to keeping children happy, according to ferry operator Irish Ferries, is to give them plenty to do to keep their minds occupied.

With this in mind, the company has expanded the range of fun things for children to do on board their services to the UK and France.

On Summer sailings to France from 2 June, new is a children's treasure hunt, magic show, kiddies disco and entertainers, as well as games and play areas. Children's menus are available in food outlets and on sailings from France, drawing and colouring sessions are held each morning. On services to the UK, free Wi-Fi, games and play zone are amongst the entertainments to keep children engaged.

"Our aim is to keep children entertained. We believe that when children are enjoying themselves, parents will enjoy themselves even more, creating stress-free travel all year round," said Head of Passenger Sales, Declan Mescall.

Toyota adds Grandon's of Glanmire to dealer network

Toyota has added Grandon's of Glanmire, Co Cork, to its dealer network.

Established in 1975 by Martin and Maria Grandon, Grandon's is still a family run business, with son Ken now serving as Dealer Principal.

Grandon's has expanded its sales and after sales areas over the years and now offers the comfort and service of one of the largest and most modern dealerships in the country. As well as new and used car sales, the dealership also provides services such as finance, insurance cover, body repairs, spray painting and valeting.

David Shannon, Managing Director of Toyota Ireland said: "Grandon's of Glanmire is exactly the type of dealership we were looking to add to the Toyota Dealer network, given its fantastic local reputation and strong emphasis on delivering stellar customer service."

Pictured above from left - Steve Tormey, Deputy Managing Director Toyota Ireland; Adrienne Sievewright, Financial Controller, Grandon's; Martin Grandon, Founder, Grandon's. Front - Ken Grandon, Dealer Principal, Grandon's; David Shannon, Managing Director Toyota Ireland.

Road Test: Peugeot 3008 HYbrid4

Peugeot's 3008HYbrid4 crossover may look like an ordinary car, writes Trish Whelan. It's not. This is a very special car as it is the world's first diesel hybrid, and so a new type of vehicle.

Unlike previous hybrid vehicles which have used a less fuel efficient petrol engine, this environmentally friendly car allows a combination of diesel and electric power.

Toyota to keep Auris name

Toyota has scotched speculation that it was about to drop the Auris model name in Europe, writes Brian Byrne.

The company developed the nameplate in 2007 when it unlinked the hatchback and sedan versions of its famed Corolla name.

There was strong criticism of the move at the time, but the company says it has achieved 'satisfactory' model awareness with Auris.

In markets outside Europe, the hatchback is still called a Corolla, a name in Europe only used for the sedan.

The model is the company's second-best seller in Europe, but lags far behind Ford's Focus, VW's Golf and Opel's Astra.

A new generation Auris is due to go on sale after next year's Geneva motor show.

It will be the first Toyota to be fitted with a BMW diesel engine, under a supply agreement signed recently between the two companies. In return, BMW will get access to Toyota's hybrid technology.

Ford introduces range of service initiatives

Ford has announced an upgrading and standardisation of its service offering as part of its new Ford Service initiative, writes Trish Whelan.

Under the new initiatives Ford customers can receive *free Ford Econo Check driver analysis software to help reduce fuel costs; *free 12 months Roadside Assistance; *and free vehicle health check and service price match guarantee.

Ford say the initiative is a response to the changing market as customers look for value for money, and the best service and most dependable parts available.

Under the Ford Service Promise, available from participating Ford Dealers, customers who have their Ford car serviced can avail of the lowest price servicing with a price match guarantee.

Dave Pimlott, Ford Ireland Customer Service Director says: "The new Ford Service Promise makes our service offering more transparent and competitive with any other offers on the market." He said most Ford dealers now have Master Technicians on their staff who know the Ford range inside out and will automatically check if a customer's car needs to be submitted for any service actions or software upgrades.

Volkswagen Crafter gives Pedal to Poland a lift

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are getting behind Pedal to Poland, an initiative by a team of nine amateur cyclists to cycle from Dublin to Gdansk in time for Ireland's first round match against Spain in the European Football Championships.

The cyclists will travel through five countries ad cover 1,500 km in two weeks while raising money for charity.

Declan Arthur, one of the organisers, said they are delighted that Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is helping them out with the loan of the Crafter as a support vehicle on the event.

The team are setting off today on their epic journey and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles wish them the best of luck. "We are in full support of this initiative which certainly isn't the easiest way to get to the Euros," comments Niall Phillips, Sales and Marketing Manager for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (pictured above in centre). "The Crafter is certainly big enough to swallow their bikes and gear pretty easily so it is great that they will be in the Continental Irish Van of the Year 2012 for their mammoth trip."

Ireland's Japanese racer home for Bavaria City Racing

Gary Thompson is the latest big name from the world of motorsport to be confirmed for the Bavaria City Racing Dublin which takes place this coming Sunday 3 June.

The 19-year-old from Donabate has been racing in Asia for the past four years, making a name for himself in the Japanese Formula 3 Series. He also became the first driver to drive a Formula 1 car in Taiwan when he drove the KCMG two-seater F1 car at the Penbay International Circuity in 2011, a car which he regularly tests and demonstrates at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.

This year, Thompson is fighting for the Japanese Formula 3 title with KCMG, and is also the reserve driver for the KCMG Formula Nippon team. Bavaria City Racing will be the first time since his karting days that Gary gets behind the wheel of a racing car on home soil.

Thompson joins some of the biggest names in world motorsport at the Bavaria City Racing Dublin event including Jenson Button (pictured above) and his Vodafone McLaren F1 team, Eugene Laverty and the Aprilia SuperBike team as well as a host of others.

The city track starts at the Convention Centre in Dublin, continues along Customs House Quay before crossing Butt Bridge, chicane's at D'Olier Street, zips past College Green and the Central Bank on Dame Street before reaching the chequered flag on O'Connell Street.

Survey: people value gadgets more than health

Results of a survey conducted by Irish company 'Behaviour and Attitudes' on behalf of Gadgetinsurance.ie has shown that people value their gadgets more than their health.

When asked what insurance policies they would like to hold if available at an acceptable price, some 33 percent of people said gadget insurance, whereas only 31 percent said they would hold a health insurance policy.

Gadgets people said they would insure, at the right price include mobile phones or smart phones, laptops, camcorders and hair straighteners.

Surprisingly, only 9 percent of people said they would insure an iPad or similar tablet.

Currently, mobile phone providers charge from €9.99 per month (Vodafone and E Mobile) up to €13.75 (Carphone Warehouse) for iPhone cover. This works out as approx €120 per year.

See gadgetinsurance.ie for more details, or call 0818 286456; or log on to www.blueinsurance.ie

Chrysler to sponsor Inaugural Donadea Trophy

Chrysler Ireland is to sponsor the inaugural Donadea Trophy, the only Open Seniors Mixed Scotch Foursome golf tournament in Ireland, writes Trish Whelan.

The event will take place on 26 June at the Knockanally Golf Club in Donadea, Co Kildare, and will coincide with the opening of the new, all-brand dealership located adjacent to the Fiat Group headquarters on the Naas Road.

This unique tournament is limited to 18 teams of eight golfers from the Leinster region this year but will grow to accommodate 30 teams from all over Ireland in 2013. Chrysler Ireland will have its full range of luxury vehicles on display at the event - Ypsilon, Delta Grand Voyager and 300C.

Knockanally is an 18-hole parkland course, situated on a 120-acre estate just minutes from the M4/N4 between Kilcock and Enfield.

Pictured above are Eddie Kenny representing the new all-brand FGAI dealership; Pat McCormack, Knockanally Golf Club Lady Captain 2012; and Pat Kenny, Knockanally Golf Club Captain 2012.

Vestas increases its Mercedes-Benz fleet

Vestas Celtic Wind Technologies has increased its Mercedes-Benz Sprinter fleet to 19 units with the purchase of three new 313/36 medium wheel base high roof models.

These latest editions have been supplied by MUTEC Dublin on a five-year contract hire, inclusive of maintenance, tyres and road tax.

To be based on the West coast fromDonegal to Kerry, these vans - each fitted with a workshop designed to store specialized parts - will offer backup assistance to the installation crews of the wind turbines farms located around the countryside.

First View: Toyota GT86

Does the world need another sports car? Or two?

Yeah, it does, writes Brian Byrne. Or at least Toyota does. To bring a youthful magic back into its showrooms. Even if the new GT86 is aimed at maturity rather than the young turks.

Which is all OK in my book. A proper sports car is for somebody experienced enough to appreciate it. And without being ageist, putting your typical boy racer behind the wheel of this one is a bit of a waste.

Toyota has a pedigree in sports cars going back half a century. And it's a dozen years since they dropped out of this particular part of the automotive game.

But they haven't been doing nothing about it for all that time. Seven years ago they started talking with Subaru about a joint venture. A year later both sides got serious. Since then they have been finely crafting their project.

It has been a close partnership. Platforms, bodywork and powertrains are the same from both brands. But their respective engineers have fine-tuned their own cars to drive differently from each other.

I may go further into that when I get to drive the Subaru. But this is about Toyota's version.

It's a cool style. Traditional 2+2 coupe with a nice splash of now and tomorrow. Could become a classic in its own right.





I'm not going to describe the sheetmetal. The pictures tell that better than words. But do note the character line linking the front and rear along the side panels. Sheer sculpting poetry. And check out those tailpipes. This is what Bond should be piloting in his next spy fantasy flick. They could double as rear protection rocket launchers.

Spinning up the hills behind Barcelona on the recent international launch, I couldn't help enjoying myself. And I didn't have to break any rules doing it (although an East European journo the previous day had got too enthusiastic and ended up overnight in the city clink).



The cabin behind the Subaru-based boxer engine is perfection for this kind of car. A steering wheel almost vertical, and for steering only. A nice mix of classic and digital in the instrumentation. What used to be called 'aircraft-style' switchgear (Toyota resurrects the description in the blurb). Aluminium detailing and metal pedals. A short-throw shifter. Seats that mould to the body. Visibility in every direction.

A combination of very low centre of gravity—thanks to where the opposed-cylinders 2.0 four sits—and a careful selection of slight weight bias to the front in the rear-drive car, produces handling that's as stick-to-the-road as probably any race-car. Yet there's no sacrifice in comfort.

(And get this, the tyres are bog-standard, the exact same ones that are used in the Prius hybrid. So the GT86 doesn't depend on high-end sports tyres to give the exceptionally competent performance it does. Means they got all the other stuff right.)

Some technical bits. The power output is a nice round 200hp. In the interests of weight-saving and reduced complexity, there's no turbocharger. So the high output/litre of engine capacity was achieved by adding Toyota's dual-injector technology to the Subaru motor.

Don't look for miserly fuel consumption, but the CO2 emissions of 181g/km are very acceptable for the 7.4 seconds acceleration capability. The manual and autobox versions, both 6-speed, are selling in Ireland for the same price of just a few fuel tank fulls short of €40,000. The auto uses less fuel, but you mightn't want it for this car.

Even if the target market is as described by Toyota as 'Dads who Dream'. And the enjoyment factor is 'Smiles per Hour'. Those two descriptions could have diminished the ethos of the car. Except that it's so much better than them.

More when I get into it in Ireland. Here from June.

Land Rover renews partnership with Jamie Heaslip

Jamie Heaslip will continue in his role as Land Rover Brand Ambassador.

The Leinster and Ireland International rugby player has agreed a new deal with the car brand that will continue the relationship into 2013.

Jamie has been a Land Rover ambassador for the past year. In that time he has driven the Discovery 4, as well as the all-new Range Rover Evoque.

New Seat Ibiza at €13,800

Seat Ireland has launched its new Seat Ibiza to the Irish market priced from €13,800.

The new car has been comprehensively refreshed both inside and out.

Seat are rewarding motorists who test drive the new car from now until the end of June with 50 free music downloads from the Universal Music catalogue. Motorists who redeem their free music downloads can also enter into a competition for a VIP Music prize at the end of June which includes two tickets to Snow Patrol & Florence and The Machine in the Phoenix Park on 8th July with hotel accommodation and merchandise included.

Seat say Ibiza will appeal to young Irish motorists who value style and substance at an affordable price. Design changes include a new honeycomb grille, new bonnet and bumpers, new fog lights with cornering function, new tail lights with LED technology, and the option of head lights with LED technology.

It also has a new dashboard layout, new steering wheel design and new upholstery. There's also a new design on the climate control panel, and has a new and roomier glove box.

Ibiza is offered in 3-door SC, 5-door (the volume seller), and the ST version. All can be had with a choice of 1.2 70hp petrol, or 1.2 75hp diesel engines. This engine line-up will grow to include the 1.2 TSI petrol 105hp and 1.6 105hp TDI at a later stage.

Prices are up to €17,415 for the 1.2 76hp TDI Special Edition version.

Driving around Bends

Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive's motoring tip this week is about driving as smoothly as possible through bends.

Preparation is key and cornering safely is no exception. Changing gear or reducing speed once in the bend unbalances the car, which at worst is dangerous. They suggest you use this sequence.

* Information. What's going on around you? Check your mirrors to work out the movements of other road users and signal before changing course. If there is a lot of traffic or someone is following close behind, do this as early as possible.

* Position. After confirming it's safe, take the best position for dealing with the bend. On a left-hand bend move closer to the centre line and on a right-hand bend, closer to the kerb or verge, but stick to your lane. This will improve your view around the corner.

* Speed. Adjust your speed to prepare for the corner.

* Gears. Once you're at the right speed, select the right gear. Adjust your speed early so that you have time to separate changing speed from changing gear.

* Accelerate. Once you can see through the bend, accelerate smoothly if it is safe, bearing in mind the road conditions. Gently accelerating through a corner balances the car.

Ford extend Focus range

Ireland's top-selling car, the Ford Focus, has seen its range extended with the announcement of a new Focus Limited Edition Series. Badged as Focus Zetec S and Titanium X, the new models extend the sporty and premium feel of the range.

The new Focus Zetec S with Ford's 1.6 TDCi diesel engine comes with the option of 95PS or 115PS outputs (5-door model only). In addition, there are more 'standard' discounted features including body styling kit, 17-inch Premium 5x2 spoke wheels with red brake calipers; rear privacy glass; Bluetooth Voice Control and USB connectivity; and velour floor mats.

The new Focus Titanium X, available in 4- and 5-door models, has the same 1.6 diesel engine as the Zetec S and has a 95PS output. The spec includes 17-inch Titanium alloys, Deflation Detection System; Active Park Assist (Ford's automatic parking system for getting the car into tight parallel parking spots); visibility pack; Bluetooth Voice Control and USB; and full size spare wheel.

Prices are from €24,927-€25,200 (excluding delivery and related charges)

Alan Lyons is new President of SIMI

Alan Lyons was elected President of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) at the organisation's 44th AGM, held at Croke Park earlier this week. He succeeds Gerry Caffrey in the post, writes Trish Whelan.

The new President spoke about the difficulties in the aftermarket sector, "There is a double blow when new car sales fall; not only does car sales' activity reduce, but there are fewer cars to service and repair. Allied to this is a flourishing black market, which always occurs when incomes fall and the Motor Industry is a prime example of that."

He said the sale of dubious car parts and, in particular 'part worn tyres', has escalated as consumers make false short-term savings that will come back to haunt them in the longer run."

Mr Lyons highlighted the need for members to get back to basics saying "SIMI members have the highest qualified technicians in the Industry and undoubtedly we provide the highest quality of service."

Mr Lyons is a Director of Auto Diesel Electric in Dublin. After qualifying as a chartered accountant and working in the agri food business, he joined the family business in 1983. Auto Diesel Electric have been trading for 47 years.

GT86 in Irish showrooms soon

The new Toyota 2+2 sports car, the GT86, arrives in Ireland next month at a price just short of €40,000 and is set to offer dealers here a halo car the like of which they haven't seen in 12 years, writes Brian Byrne.

That's how long since Toyota dropped the Celica and got out of the sports car arena, one in which they previously had a highly respected heritage.

The GT86 (top car in the collage above) is powered by a 2.0 direct injection petrol engine in boxer opposed-cylinders format. It outputs 200hp and offers a 0-100km/h sprint performance of 7.4 seconds. It is available in manual and automatic forms, with one grade, at the same price.

The car is the spiritual successor to the Sports 800 of 1962 (above left), a diminutive car which also had a 'boxer' engine, though with just two cylinders instead of the four of the GT86.

It also reflects on the gorgeous 2000GT from 1965 (above right), which established Toyota as a world-class sports car maker even though only 337 units were built.

The GT86 has been in development since a joint venture agreement with Subaru was signed in 2005.

We have been driving the new car today in the hills behind Barcelona, and will offer a first view soon.

'Safe and Sober' seminar held in Dublin yesterday

A device which prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver's breath was demonstrated at a Safe and Sober seminar held in Dublin yesterday, jointly hosted by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC), the Road Safety Authority (RSA) Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and An Garda Siochana.

It was part of the ETSC's campaign on drink driving, with a particular focus on employers. The seminars, which are supported by Volvo Trucks and Alcohol Countermeasures Systems, are organised by the ETSC in selected European countries.

The aim is to bring together road safety stakeholders, experts and organisations to raise awareness among employers of drink driving in the workplace, particularly in the commercial transport industry, and 'to explore measures to address this high risk behaviour'.

Escorted Tour with Joe Walsh Tours

Joe Walsh Tours currently have four escorted tours on offer which will allow you to explore the culture and history of Italy or the beauty and heritage of Portugal.

Rome & Tuscany: Departing from Cork on 1 June 2012 for 7 nights, b&b and half-board basis from €975 inc.

Rome & Sorento, departing Dublin on 9 June, 7 nights, b&b & half-board basis, from €849 inc.

Lisbon Coast: departing Dublin on 21 June, 7 nights, half board basis, from €774 inc.

Lake Garda, Venice, Verona & Padua: Depart Dublin on 23 August, 7 nights, half-board basis, from €889 inc.

Tours include: return flights and airport transfers, hotel accommodation, tours and excursions as listed, luxury coach for all transfers and tours, airport taxes and charges, and the assistance of a Joe Walsh Tours representative.

For further information or to book, visit www.joewalshtours.ie, or call 01-2410800 or email info@joewalshtours.ie

Mazda CX-5 gets five stars

Mazda's all-new CX-5 has been awarded five stars from Euro NCAP, the highest possible safety rating.

The CX-5, a compact crossover SUV launched in Europe this year, achieved top marks in all four safety categories. Its grades for adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, and safety assist systems were well above the 80 percent, 75 percent and 60 percent thresholds in these categories required to collect five stars overall.

The CX-5 attained the top rating despite being subject to higher standards introduced by Euro NCAP in 2012 for pedestrian protection where vehicles now need a score of at least 60 percent.

Five safety stars for New Peugeot 208

The new Peugeot 208, due for launch in Ireland on 30 June, has been awarded five stars by Euro NCAP.

The car is the first in its segment to obtain five stars, the highest rating possible.

The 208 will have as standard, ABS, ESP, six airbags, rear Isofix fixings, speed limiter, front seat belt warning and a collapsible steering column. It is made of aluminium absorption beams and ultra strength steel to ensure occupant protection.

The unique driving position also makes for more secure driving. Raising the instrument panel to eye level minimises the time that the driver's eyes leave the road to check information and so reduces the chances of a collision. And the small steering wheel gives better road control.

Smaller on the outside, but bigger on the inside than its predecessor 207, the car is also 110kg lighter, meaning lower C02 results, very good fuel consumption and lower running costs.

Prices and standard equipment for the new 208 will be announced closer to the launch.

Volvo's pedestrian airbag: how it works

Volvo is first manufacturer to offer a pedestrian airbag. The system was a world breakthrough when the all-new Volvo V40 was launched in Geneva earlier this year.

It works by seven sensors embedded in the front of the car which transmit signals to a control unit. When the car comes into contact with an object, the signals change. The control unit evaluates the signals and if it registers what it interprets as a human leg, the pedestrian airbag is deployed.

The airbag raises the bonnet to create distance, and cushions the impact around the hard parts of the area near the windscreen. In its inflated position, the airbag covers the entire windscreen wiper recess, about one-third of the windscreen and the lower part of the A-pillars. The entire sequence from activation of the system to full inflation, takes a few hundredths of a second.

The system is active at speeds between 20 and 50 km/h. The majority of accidents involving pedestrians happen at up to 40 km/h. In Europe, 14 percent of traffic fatalities are pedestrians. The most serious head injuries involving pedestrians and cars are caused by the hard structure under the bonnet panel, the windscreen's lower edge and the A-Pillars.

The technology was developed using computer simulations and human-like leg and head forms.

Tom McQueirns is Country Director for Chevrolet Ireland

Chevrolet have appointed Tom McQueirns as Country Director, Chevrolet Ireland, writes Trish Whelan.

Tom has extensive motor industry experience and a past association with the brand having previously worked for the company that brought Chevrolet and Ssangyong vehicles into the country, along with a short tenure at Nissan.

A qualified chartered accountant, McQueirns also has a BSc in Management acquired at Trinity College, Dublin. He will be responsible for overseeing development of the Chevrolet brand and dealer network across Ireland as well as managing sales and aftersales functions throughout the country, and will liaise directly with the Chevrolet team in the UK.

Mr McQueirns is looking forward to taking up his new position on 25 June, and will be based in Dublin.

Commenting on the appointment, Chevrolet UK and Ireland Managing Director, Mark Terry said: "It's a real pleasure to welcome Tom back into the Chevrolet family. He has a proven track record and a great in-depth knowledge of the Irish motor industry which makes him the ideal person to drive our brand forward as we relaunch in Ireland."

Tom McQueirns is pictured above (left) with Mark Terry at the announcement of the Ireland model range at Druid's Glen, Co Wicklow, on Monday.

Mazda CX-5 gets five stars from Euro NCAP

Mazda's all-new CX-5 is officially one of the safest cars in the world after receiving five stars from Euro NCAP, the highest possible safety rating.

The CX-5, a compact crossover SUV launched in Europe this year, achieved top marks in all four safety categories.

The CX-5 attained the top rating despite being subject to higher standards introduced by Euro NCAP in 2012 for pedestrian protection where vehicles now need a score of at least 60 percent.

Fiat, Mazda to cooperate on roadster

Fiat and Mazda are to cooperate on the development of new roadsters based on the Japanese company's next-generation MX-5 architecture, writes Brian Byrne.

The Italian maker's version of the rear-drive 2-seater will be built under the Alfa Romeo brand.

Production is planned for 2015.

1-2-3 win for the Cruzes in Austria

Chevrolet comfortably claimed a 1-2-3 win in Race 1 of the WTCC Round 6 at Salzburgring on Sunday, writes Trish Whelan.

But a tyre nightmare in the last corners in Race 2 put paid to any hopes of a double and saw Stefano D-Aste claim his first win after a dramatic last lap.

Rob Huff, Yvan Muller and Alain Meno dominated Race 1 but at the same time treated the Austrian fans to a good show, engaging each other in close fights nearly at every corner.

The second race was set to end in another 1-2-3 for Chevrolet, as Muller, Huff and Menu were able to recover and take command despite starting ninth, tenth and eight respectively. However, tyre problems plagued all the three Cruze cars - and also the Leon cars of Monteiro, Tarquini and Dudakalo - and this resulted in a last-corner sprint that propelled D-Aste towards an unexpected victory from Huff and Tom Coronel.

In terms of the title fight, Huff emerged as the overall winner of the weekend. The Englishman overtook Menu for second place and also reduced his gap from Yvan Muller to only eight points, which promises exciting battles for the second half of the season.

The championship resumes at Portimao, Portugal, on 3 June for rounds 13 and 14.

Travel to Tokyo for less

If you are looking for a unique, cosmopolitan destination for your next trip, then how about Tokyo?

Japan's capital city is a fusion of ancient and modern culture which offers something for everyone.

Scandinavian Airlines, Europe's Most Punctual Airline, have just announced discounts on fares to Tokyo, if booked by 30 November 2012. Prices are from €694pp return.

Tokyo flights from Dublin are also one of the best connections that SAS offer, via Copenhagen.

SAS fares include taxes and all other charges.

So if you fancy sampling Sashimi at the world's largest fish market, riding the Bullet Train past Mt. Juji, or visiting a Geisha in Gion, then visit www.flysas.ie to book your Tokyo trip.

Travel dates are from 13 November 2012 - 28 February 2013. Always with SAS you get free 23kg baggage, free online check-in, Eurobonus points, 25% child discount, free newspapers, coffee and tea in Economy Class.

Hyundai teams up with Brent Pope

Hyundai have teamed up with rugby commentator Brent Pope who will drive the all-new Hyundai Veloster Coupe.

Hyundai said it is part of their current marketing strategy to gain further awareness for the Hyundai brand in Ireland.

Brent was welcomed on board as brand ambassador for the new Veloster Coupe by Sarah Hayes, Marketing Manager, Hyundai Cars Ireland.

Hyundai is Ireland's fastest growing car brand.

Chevrolet names Irish dealer network

The first 10 dealers to sell the newly relaunched Chevrolet brand across Ireland have been named, following the decision to distribute the vehicles directly through Chevrolet UK and Ireland, writes Trish Whelan.

The dealers approved to sell Chevrolet cars at the time of the brand's launch yesterday are:

Clonee Motor Centre, Clonee; Ennis Road Motors, Limerick; FM Autocentre, Carlow; Hinchy's Garage, Knocklong; Randles Brothers, Tralee; Waterford Motor Village, Waterford; Windsor Airside, Airside, Swords: Windsor Deansgrange, South Dublin; Windsor Bray, Bray; and Windsor Galway in Galway.

All are existing Chevrolet dealers who have transitioned from the private importer that previously brought Chevrolet cars into Ireland.

The new Chevrolet product range for this country was unveiled to the media at an event in Druid's Glen, Co Wicklow yesterday. The Spark small car has an on-the-road price of €11,995; other cars also now on sale are Aveo, Cruze, Orlando and Captiva.

Motor technician register scheme

A scheme to promote professional servicing of cars has been launched by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry.

The Autosure Professional Register (APR) will be similar to the RECI scheme used by electrical contractors, with only SIMI qualified technicians being allowed to sign off on a service job.

A sticker noting this APR service will be fixed to the window.

According to a recent survey two-thirds of motorists are putting off servicing their cars because they can't afford it. SIMI says there's a big increase in 'untrained and illegal' operators offering to service cars.

SIMI president Gerry Caffrey says the work carried out by such operators can be to a poor standard, which could leave a car in dangerous condition and the owner out of pocket when something goes wrong with their car.

BMW pushes Toyota off top brand league

BMW is now considered the world's top automotive brand, according to market research company Millward Brown.

In its annual survey, the German prestige brand overtook Toyota, which was in top spot from 2006 through 2009, and also 2011.

BMW was also top brand in 2010. Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Audi improved their brand value, according to the BrandZ Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands study.

80th anniversary of Earhart crossing

This last weekend was the 80th anniversary of the first solo crossing of the Atlantic by a woman, when Amelia Earhart landed in a cow pasture in Ballyarnott, in Derry, writes Brian Byrne.

The famous aeronaut, who subsequently disappeared in mysterious circumstances on a flight over the Pacific, was described as being more hungry than excited when members of the family who owned the landing site, the Gallaghers, went to see who was in the plane.

There's a good account of the episode here.

Chevrolet relaunches in Ireland

Chevrolet has launched five cars in Ireland, ranging in price from €11,995-€45,995, writes Brian Byrne.

The models are Spark (above), Aveo, Cruze, Orlando and Captiva, which will spearhead the return of the highly respected US brand to the Irish market.

The Volt extended range electric car will be launched here in early 2013.

Chevrolet will have an Irish Country Director based in Dublin, and the supply of cars and spare parts is being managed by the UK-based Chevrolet UK & Ireland. Ten dealers from the old Chevrolet network have been reappointed, and discussions are in progress with three more.

Cork crew conquer home event

Owen Murphy and James O’ Brien won a thrilling Jim Walsh Cork Forest Rally last Saturday, writes Austin Shinnors, PRO Valvoline National Forest Championship.

Murphy and O'Brien are pictured above as they raced to victory in Cork. (Pic: Ger Leahy).

The Cork rally was round four of the 2012 Valvoline Forest Rally Championship and for the second rally in succession, the margins were minimal with Murphy winning by a mere 6.3 seconds ahead of Colin Britton. Pat O’Connell was third, just  0.9 seconds behind Britton. For Murphy, it was twenty one valuable championship points and also his first win on his local rally. Shane Mc Girr was best 2WD and Dean Raftery won the junior category.

The six stage rally was  hosted by Cork Motor Club with its base in Mallow. A compact route included three stages (repeated) at Bweeng, Mount Hilary and Peter’s Hill.

RIAC Pioneer Run 2012

The ninth 'Pioneer Run' of cars over a hundred years old will be run by the Royal Irish Automobile Club on Sunday 27 May through parts of Kildare and Meath, from an event HQ at Barberstown Castle in Straffan, writes Trish Whelan.

The event celebrates the heritage of Ireland's pioneering automobilists, who were never sure at the start of their journeys where they might end up. The cars will be flagged away by John Boyd Dunlop, great-gandson of the inventor of the pneumatic tyre.

The route will take the cars and motorcycles through Maynooth, Kilcock, Enfield, Johnstownbridge, Kilshanroe, Carbury, Allenwood, Prosperous and Clane.

The Run will be preceded on the Saturday by a 'shakedown' afternoon drive to Dunboyne, where the cars will be displayed for a time on the village green. This will be part of the launch of the Dunboyne Motor Club's 'Spirit of Dunboyne' event which takes place on September 23.

Pictured above at a reception in the RIAC in Dublin to promote the event is former rally champion Rosemary Smith in an Alfa Romeo that was part of a display in front of The Mansion House, with Tom Farrell, president of the Irish Veteran & Vintage Car Club, Myles O'Reilly of sponsors AXA Insurance, Cecil Sparks, chairman of the RIAC, and Tom Healy of Irish Vintage Scene Magazine; and (below) Tom Farrell with John Hayes, automotive management consultant.

Enjoy a slice of 'Merrie England'

Once a ‘privately built fantasy holiday village’ created in 1912 by Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie, Thorpeness in Suffolk has always been surrounded by mystique. Ogilvie’s idea was to create the ideal holiday village for people who want to experience life as it was when England was Merrie England so created an idyllic holiday dwelling of mock Tudor buildings set amongst the purple heather and golden gorse on the stunning un-spoilt beach.

Thorpeness is as unique today as it was 100 years ago and as the village approaches its official centenary, an exhibition of its unique history is opening to the public throwing the spotlight on this quirky village and questioning how it has retained the character and charm that made it one of the UK’s best kept secrets throughout the wartime era, as well as a must-visit destination in Suffolk today.

Michelin launches online tyre labelling guide

Michelin is helping truck, bus and coach fleets get to grips with the new EC/1222/2009 regulation on tyre labelling which will come into force from 1 November 2012.

The company has launched a dedicated tyre labelling information module which explains everything fleet operators need to know about the legislation, including why it is being introduced, what tyres it covers, an overview of the different rating criteria and what benefits it offers fleets.

Sharn Samra, Michelin's Head of Truck & Bus Marketing in the UK and Ireland says: "The introduction of tyre labelling is a big step for the industry and will act as an important decision-making tool for fleets."

Skoda is new sponsor of Newstalk's GAA coverage

Newstalk 106-108fm today launched its coverage of the 2012 GAA All-Ireland Senior Championships and announced Skoda as the station's new GAA broadcast sponsor. Newstalk sport-veterans, Ger Gilroy and Dave McIntyre, revealed an all-star panel that will join the Newstalk sports team in delivering the best GAA coverage and analysis available on national radio - for the second year running.

The Newstalk sports team - Newstalk Sport Saturday / Sunday and Off the Ball - will be assisted throughout the season by a host of GAA sporting legends. Among those giving their expert analysis of the GAA All-Ireland Football Championship will be Darragh O Se, Colm parkinson, Enda McNulty, Liam McHale, Conor Deegan, Kevin Cassidy, David Brady, Eugene McGee and Oisin McConville. The Newstalk sports team will also bring their views on the hurling action over the summer, joined by Jamesie O'Connor, Daithi Regan, Ollie Canning and Derek Lyng.

Speaking at today's launch, Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing Skoda Ireland said: "Today's announcement is another significant milestone for the Skoda brand in Ireland and we are looking forward to working with Newstalk on an exciting programme of events this Championship."

At the launch were, from left, Newstalk's Dave McIntyre; Tyrone's Sean Cavanagh; Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing, Skoda Ireland; Kildare's Dermot Earley, and Newstalk's Ger Gilroy.

Ford's Easy Fuel system is deterrent to fuel thieves

Ford's Easy Fuel system which prevents the expensive mistake of misfuelling is also proving a deterrent to petrol and diesel thieves.

The escalating value of fuel has led to thefts from vehicles increasing in the past year.

While Ford Easy Fuel - fitted as standard to top-selling models including Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus and Ford Mondeo - was designed to make refuelling simple and error-free, but it also makes syphoning extremely difficult.

The technology behind Easy Fuel adds extra layers of security behind the external fuel filler opening, which is anyway secured as part of the vehicle's central locking, to inhibit forced entry and syphoning.

Easy Fuel's spring-loaded flap is held closed by two latches that can only be released by a standard-size fuel nozzle. When the proper nozzle is inserted into the filler neck of the system, the latches release and the nozzle pushes the spring-loaded flap to the open position. When the nozzle is removed, the flap is automatically and firmly closed by the spring.

Easy Fuel also has a patented inhibitor designed to prevent improper fuelling and syphoning. If a nozzle or foreign tube of a different size - a diesel nozzle or plastic hose - is placed in the filler neck of a petrol-powered vehicle, the latches won't release. For a diesel-powered vehicle, the inhibitor will keep out the smaller nozzles.

New dealers for Toyota and Lexus in Cork

Toyota Ireland has announced two new additions to its Dealer network in Cork, Macroom Motors (Cork City) and Grandon Car Sales (Glanmire).

These strategic appointments for Toyota in Cork follow Toyota Ireland's decision inJune 2010 not to renew their current dealer agreements with the Keary Motor Group for both the Toyota and Lexus franchises.

Cogans of Carrigaline and O'Callaghan Motor Works of Kanturk will continue to be key pillars within the new network.

Simultaneously, Macroom Motors has also been awarded the Lexus franchise for the Cork region, taking over from the Keary Motor Group.

Macroom Motors have been a Toyota dealer since the franchise came to Ireland in the early 1970s and will be opening a state of the art premises for both the Toyota and Lexus franchises inCork City while maintaining their dealership in Macroom.

Grandon Car Sales, who are in the motor business since 1975, will be bringing Toyota to their premises in Glanmire.

Volkswagen bring 'The Iron' to Ireland this summer

Volkswagen Ireland has confirmed that Scunthorpe United will be holding their 2012-13 Pre-Season Tour in this country as part of a sponsorship agreement.

The tour takes place from July 16-20 and will see the team staying at Carton House Hotel, Maynooth, where Real madrid and Wolves previously trained.

'The Iron' will be playing two Pre-Season friendly matches. On Tuesday 17 July they will face Airtricity Premier League side Bray Wanderers at the Carlisle Ground. On Thursday 19 July, they face Leinster Senior League side Wayside Celtic at the Golden Ball in Kilternan.

Simon Elliott, Group CEO of Volkswagen Ireland and former Director of Scunthorpe United, said "It is great to be able to further support the club and its supporters. It's a very short flight or ferry crossing, so I hope to see as many Scunny fans as possible here in Dublin".

Scunthorpe United play in League Division One in the English Football League. Famous players who have played for the club include Kevin Keegan, Ray Clemence, Peter Beagrie and more recently Gary Hooper who today is a regular goal scorer with Celtic. There are four Irish players on the Scunthorpe United first team squad, with Irish Internationals Jimmy Ryan, Michael Collins, Niall Canavan and Robbie Gibbons all set to feature in the pre-season tour.

Pictured are Scunthorpe United's French Midfielder Damien Mozika; Manager Alan Knill, and Ireland's Niall Canavan.

Support Ireland as they take on Spain

June 14 will see the boys in green take on current champions, Spain, in Gdansk, Poland. This crucial game, during which Ireland go up against current European and World champions, Spain, looks set to be a nail-biting 90 minutes.

If you want to be at the centre of the action, supporting the Irish team, but don't want to have to take a huge amount of time off work or personal commitments, then a Joe Walsh Tours Euro 2012 Day Trip could suit you.

You can be part of the green army for this game from €499pp + tax. You will also return the same day.

Joe Walsh Tours till have seats available for Ireland's games against Croatia (10 June €419pp + tax), and Italy (18 June, €419pp + tax), for those who wish to travel to these games. These are also day trips.

Prices include direct return flights from Dublin to Poznan or Gdansk, return airport to stadium transfers in Poland, one small piece of hand luggage per person, and the assistance of a Joe Walsh Tours rep throughout the duration of the trip.

Please note: A non-refundable deposit of €200 is required for booking, price does not include taxes and charges totalling €75 per person, match tickets are not included, travel insurance is optional.

www.joewalshtours.ie or call 01 2410800 or email gill.osullivan@joewalshtours.ie