Review: Volvo XC60

A caveat. This review is of a car that's on runout, and will be superseded at the end of the year by a new version, writes Brian Byrne. But that doesn't mean it isn't worth investing in.

The Volvo XC60 has been a workhorse for the Swedish brand since it was first launched in 2008 as part of the S60 range of cars which had revitalised Volvo. It rapidly became Volvo's best selling car globally.

Because this was a time when Volvo and Land Rover were both owned by Ford, the technology used by the car is similar to that of the original Freelander. And there was never anything wrong with that.

The review car is based on a refresh that took place in 2014, and which got a new engine in 2016.

Mazda's 50 years since its first rotary car

It’s 50 years today since Mazda launched its first rotary-engined car, the Cosmo Sport, writes Brian Byrne.

Powered by a twin-rotor version of the Wankel engine, licensed by Mazda from German company NSU, it was also Mazda’s first sports car, supplying the DNA that has gone into models like the Mazda RX-7 and Mazda MX-5.

Only 1,176 Cosmo Sports were built, but the model marked the company’s transformation from a maker of predominantly trucks and small cars to a unique brand characterised by its convention-defying approach to engineering as well as design.

Mazda’s engineers surmounted numerous hurdles to making the rotary engine commercially viable, and although dozens of companies including most major carmakers signed licensing agreements with NSU to develop the technology, only Mazda was successful. The company would go on to build almost 2m rotary-powered vehicles, and also achieved considerable racing success.

The RX-7, for example, dominated its class at International Motor Sport Association events throughout the 1980s. Mazda’s biggest single triumph on the track came in 1991, when a Mazda 787B powered by a 2.6-litre 4-rotor motor producing 710hp won the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The same attitude resulted in the MX-5 conventional-engined sports car, and in Skyactiv technology in powertrains, platforms, car bodies and other elements of the modern car.

Renault Group’s 172 offers

Renault has announce its 172 offers on new models available to order now, writes Trish Whelan.

Available now across all 28 dealerships, the 172 offer through Renault Bank includes 3pc APR finance, 3 years’ servicing included and 3pc cashback. Cashback is a new addition for 712 which is based on the RRP of the car. The 3pc APR offer applies on PCP and HP across the Renault car range.

The 172 offer, exclusive to Renault Bank, applies to all orders taken from now until 31 July 2017 and registered on or before 31 July 2017.

The offer is also available for 171 registrations in May and June across the Renault range including Clio, the new Megane range which includes Megane Grand Coupe and Megane Sport Tourer; the new Scenic and Grand Scenic, and crossovers Kadjar and Captur which leads the B-SUV segment in Ireland.

On Renault’s LCV range, which includes Master, Trafic and Kangoo, customers can avail of 3pc APR HP Finance 3 years’ servicing included, and 3pc cashback for 172.

Renault also has a number of new models arriving in its dealerships including the ZOE ZE 40 fully electric car (pictured above), now available to order. ZOE ZE 40 has an NEDC range of 400km which Renault estimates as 300km of range in real-world driving. This battery is standard on the Dynamique Nav and top Signature Nav versions, at €27,490 and €29,990, with an offer of 9pc APR HP. ZOE, with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, is available from €23,490 with a 22kW/h battery. These prices include SEAI grant (€5,000) and VRT relief. All ZOE pricing now includes the battery. The new Renault Koleos, expected here in July, is pictured below.

Dacia celebrates five years in Ireland this year and offers zero deposit and 4.9pc APR PCP with Dacia Bank for 172 across the range including Duster, Sandero, Stepway and Logan. The offer is also available for 171 registrations this month and in June.

Boyles dominate Cavan Rally

Niall Murray.

Double National Rally champions Declan and Brian Boyle dominated the Cavan Kilmore Hotel Stages Rally yesterday, writes Richard Burke, with their Fiesta WRC finishing the eight stages more than half a minute clear of the Impreza of Garry Jennings and Rory Kennedy. 

The Donegal cousins held second place for the two opening stages, behind the Fabia of Marty McCormack and David Moynihan, but went ahead on the third stage and pulled away from there to the end. McCormack dropped to third after a duel with Jennings for the rest of the day, with just two seconds eventually covering the two rivals. 

Local man Gary Kiernan, from Bailieborough, came out best of the two wheel drive cars in his Escort, taking a strong fifth place overall, ahead of thesimilar cars of Adrian Hetherington, Ryan Loughran and Mickey Conlon.  

At Kirkistown, in Co Down, Kildare's Kevin O'Hara and Dubliner Niall Murray (pictured above), both former Young Racing Drivers of the Year, took a victory each in the two Formula Ford 1600 races.

BMW shows 8 Series concept

This is the BMW 8 Series Coupe concept which previews the first model in a new range of cars planned by the Munich car-maker to debut in 2018, writes Brian Byrne.

The concept was revealed in Italy last week, and the eventual range of what will be BMW’s new flagship is expected to include a convertible and a 4-door Gran Coupe.

The 7 Series saloon is currently the brand’s top model.

Ford launches Omnicraft spare parts brand

Ford Ireland has launched its ‘Omnicraft’ range of spare parts for all non-Ford vehicles, allowing its dealerships to offer full repair service for all such cars, writes Brian Byrne.

Omnicraft is the first new brand offered by Ford in more than 40 years and has initially focused on developing the most commonly requested parts, including oil filters, brake pads and discs, starter motors and alternators.

In the coming months, Ford will introduce engine and cabin air filters, brake master cylinders and wheel hub assemblies, amongst many other parts.

At launch, Omnicraft parts will be available at more than 56 Ford dealerships across Ireland.

Ford also offers its Ford Motorcraft complete line of replacement parts for older Ford vehicles.

Tyre offences enforcement criticised

A criticism of the enforcement of tyre-related offences has been made by Continental Tyres Ireland, writes Brian Byrne.

Following an analysis of the penalty points applied for such offences since they came into force last May, Continental’s Tom Dennigan said the company was ‘very disappointed’ at the ‘extremely low level of enforcement’.

The analysis showed that there were just 853 fixed penalty notices issued for tyre condition offences, compared to 27,755 notices issued in 2016 for mobile phone offences.

“Our own analysis of replacement tyres at tyre depots around the country has shown that vehicles running on dangerous or illegal tyres are extremely common,” Mr Dennigan said. “We would therefore have expected the number of tyre-related penalty point notices to be much higher than the recorded figure.”

That investigation showed that badly worn and damaged tyres uncovered in the analysis included a full range of faults including tread depth worn to below the legal limit of 1.6mm and in some cases, worn right down so that the wire carcass of the tyre can be seen.

Lumps, bulges and holes in tyres again showing the wire ‘carcass’ of the tyre were also found, and uneven wear with one side of the tyre worn down to dangerous levels due to incorrect balancing and tyre tracking.

Pictured is a tyre from a BMW 5 Series in Carlow, showing a dangerously degraded tyre with the wire showing. The driver of this car would be liable for penalty points under the tyre safety penalty points regime.

Ford's 100 New Century Sales Event

As the company celebrates 100 years in Ireland this year, Ford has launched its Ford 100 New Century Sales Event in time for the new 172 registration plate with reductions across the range, writes Trish Whelan.

Running until 30 June, the promotion also provides 3-years free motor tax and extended 7-year warranty on selected models.

Customers buying a new car also have the chance to follow in Henry Ford’s footsteps and sail in luxury across the Atlantic on a Cunard cruise-liner. This is the winning prize in a test-drive draw open to anyone who takes a test drive in one of the selected 172 models before the end of the promotion.

The sales event offers include substantial discounts on a range of new Ford models including Fiesta, Focus, EcoSport, Mondeo and Kuga. Discounts range from €2,300 off Fiesta models to €4,300 off the Focus ST Line which is offered from the special price of €22,645 (price excludes delivery and related charges). Other reductions include up to €3,300 off EcoSport; €4,000 off Mondeo; and €5,00 off Kuga.

Ford is also offering a choice of two or three year cycle deals on Ford Options with a 9pc APR on selected models.

Volkswagen Commercials celebrates 70 years

Volkswagen Commercial vehicles has announced a new range of service offers to celebrate 70 years of its commercial vehicles, writes Trish Whelan. 

The offers will cover all routine service operations, including a minor service starting at €129 and a major service costing €259. Also, if you avail of the major service offer, you will receive a €50 credit towards your next service or repair.

The company has also introduced the ‘7 for 70 difference’ - Volkswagen will provide 7 benefits that it says other service providers don’t offer. This includes a free wash and vacuum, free courtesy van, price promise, express servicing and extended opening hours to suit the customer’s needs.

Offers are available at participating Volkswagen Commercial vehicle Service Centres. They apply to VW Commercial Vehicles 2013 or older. All prices are exclusive of VAT.

The new Volkswagen Crafter van is pictured above. 

New engine variant for Audi A5 Sportback

One of Audi Ireland’s most popular engine variants, the 2.0TDI 150hp, is now available to order in Ireland retailing from €46,500 RRP, writes Trish Whelan.

This model offers sports car performance with low consumption thanks to new engine technology with C02 from 111g/km and fuel consumption from 4.3 L/100kms.

The five-door A5 Sportback has more interior space and provides 480 litres of luggage capacity.

The Audi smartphone interface integrates iOS and Android mobile phones in an environment specially developed for them in the MMI.

The new A5 Sportback 2.0 150hp is available to order now at your local authorised Audi dealership.

Toyota to hold 'Discover Hybrid' event in June

Toyota Ireland will hold a Discover Hybrid event during the month of June in conjunction with its range of consumer offers for 17, writes Trish Whelan.

This year Toyota has seen a 100pc increase in its hybrid sales and hybrid now accounts for 28pc of total sales.

The Japanese carmaker is expecting interest in its hybrid vehicles to continue to build due to its 40pc better fuel economy and the ability to drive in EV mode up to 40pc of the time without needing to ever plug it in. 

The brand’s Hybrid Guarantee is an industry first which gives customers new to hybrid peace of mind by allowing them to swap their hybrid for an equivalent petrol or diesel model during the next registration period should they wish to do so.

June will also see the launch of the company’s first plug in hybrid electric vehicle in time for the new registration period. The Prius PHV will now be available with a plug-in option alongside the standard non-plug in version. June will also see the launch of the new 2017 Yaris with a new design and bi-tone interior. The new Auris Luna sport grade is also available with a black roof, alloys, privacy glass and alcantara trim.

Offers across the Toyota range on all conventional and hybrid vehicles will see customers being able to choose either €3,500 scrappage on vehicles which are older than 2007 or 3 years’ free servicing. PCP rates start from 2.9pc for conventional models and 4.9pc for hybrid. The Toyota Proace is available with up to €4,000 scrappage or APR from 1.9pc.

Five 'hidden gem' driving routes

Going for a drive in the car has long been one of the staples of Irish family life. Even with our unpredictable Irish weather, a scenic Sunday afternoon drive is very often the best way of getting out and about with the family.

In this regard, we are lucky to have some of the most picturesque driving routes in Europe right on our doorstep. From stunning coastal trails like the Wild Atlantic Way to lesser-known inland gems like Brú na Bóinne and the Sally Gap, Irish motorists have an incredible array of routes to choose from.

Someone who knows a thing or two about the roads of Ireland is George O’Connor, Managing Director of Enterprise Rent-A-Car Ireland, a company that specialises in providing mobility solutions for people looking to get around Ireland by car.
 
O’Connor says tourist routes are there for local people to enjoy as well as visitors, and this June bank holiday weekend is a great opportunity to get out and enjoy a relaxing drive in beautiful surroundings.

“Whether you choose an old favourite or try a new route, the important thing is to give yourself plenty of time, take it at a leisurely pace and don’t be afraid to get out of the car and explore on foot if the chance presents itself. Here are five marvellous drives to consider for the long weekend,” O’Connor says.

Galway to Westport (approx 90 mins)
Starting with a classic, this route takes you deep into the heartland of Connemara and up into the hills, with an incredible view over Clifden Bay and out towards the islands of Inishturk and Turbot. Stop for lunch in Clifden before heading on towards Westport, where you’ll pass the gorgeous Doolough Valley with its Famine Memorial.

Dungarvan to Tramore (approx 45 mins)
Otherwise known as the ‘Copper Coast’ drive, this route has a bit of everything: hidden sandy beaches and tranquil seascapes, cliffs and coves as well as a succession of picturesque villages including Bunmahon, Dunhill and Fenor. This region is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets as you’ll discover when you see the jaw-dropping cliffs at Ballydowane Bay.

Dollymount Strand to Howth Head (approx 40 mins)
When you live in the Dublin ‘bubble’, the temptation is to go west in search of quiet country roads but the coastal route from Dollymount Strand to Howth Head is as picturesque as any part of Ireland. Once past Bull Island, you begin to climb the oasis of green that is Howth until you reach the headland with its gorgeous views down over the Poolbeg towers.

Newgrange to Skerries (approx 40 mins)
Brú na Bóinne hardly qualifies as a hidden gem, given the worldwide fame and popularity of the prehistoric monument at Newgrange, but it is a captivating drive nonetheless and well worth the spin. Once you’ve paid your respects at the megalithic tomb, head east to Bettystown and then cut south through Balbriggan and on to Skerries by the sea for a delicious bowl of seafood chowder.

Letterkenny to Donegal (approx 1hr 20 mins)
If you have time for a proper road movie, this section of the Wild Atlantic Way is perhaps the most visually spectacular route in the country. There’s so much to take in on this breath-taking drive, but must-see highlights include Glenveagh National Park, Sheephaven Bay, the Glengesh Pass, Silver Strand Beach, the view from the Sliabh Liag Cliffs and the tranquil atmosphere all the way to Donegal town.

“These are five great drives but the possibilities are endless,” says O’Connor. “We are blessed with scenery that is the envy of the world; no wonder Irish tourism is set for another record-breaking year.”

Frank Keane VW wins commercial dealer award

Frank Keane Volkswagen was awarded Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Dealer of the Year 2016 at the recent Volkswagen Gold Pin Awards, writes Trish Whelan.

The award recognises the retailer’s contribution in a number of areas including sales performance, local market share and overall customer experience and is the highest honour that a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle retailer can achieve.

The award was presented to Donal Geoghegan (Dealer Principal) and Ger Colwell (Commercial Vehicle Manager) of Frank Keane Volkswagen by Alan Bateson, Managing Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland, at a recent gala awards ceremony held in Carton House, Maynooth, Co Kildare.

Since opening in January 2012 with a team of 14 staff members, Frank Keane Volkswagen has grown significantly resulting in two new dealership locations in five years: Liffey Valley Motor Mall and Deansgrange, Co Dublin. Frank Keane Volkswagen now has a workforce of over 120 people.

In 2016, Frank Keane Volkswagen acquired MSL Motor Group Volkswagen in Deansgrange, Ballsbridge, and Pottery Road. They also merged with the MSL Volkswagen Showroom in Deansgrange and opened up a new state of the art service centre. With this extensive expansion, the Commercial Vehicles department, managed by Ger Colwell, has developed into one of Ireland’s leading Van Centres.

Congratulating the team, Alan Bateson said “Our vans are proving more popular than ever, not just because of their unmatched quality and comfort, but also because of our leading residuals that are guaranteed, the only commercial vehicle brand in Ireland to do this.” He added that there is a Customer-first service support provided from their dedicated van centre network in Ireland.

He said with the recent launch of the new Crafter, International Van of the Year 2017, ‘we are focused on continued growth in the Irish market’.

Alan Bateson, Managing Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland and Ger Colwell, Commercial Vehicle Manager of Frank Keane Volkswagen, are pictured above.

Review: Toyota C-HR

Chalk and cheese. The Urban Cruiser and the C-HR, both from Toyota. You'd not think one replaced the other, writes Brian Byrne. The UC was square in shape, uncool, a small MPV in classification. But it drove quite well.

The C-HR, on the other hand, is styled to draw eyes. And customers. Especially other brands' customers. In particular, customers who buy the likes of the Nissan Juke, the first of the funky small crossovers and doing quite nicely for Renault's Japanese partner.

The C-HR is bigger than the Juke, so it's really competing up against the Qashqai, Mazda's CX-3, Suzuki's S-Cross and Kia's Niro amongst others in a very crowded segment. A very competitive space too, with a lot of good motors around. A place where a newcomer has to stand out. The C-HR does.

A high-speed, hurdling launch for Irish in World University Games

Thomas Barr met Irish Sportswoman of the Year Nicole Drought for some high speed action at Mondello Park recently, to launch Team Ireland's involvement in the 2017 World University Games.

Whilst at Mondello Park, Barr enjoyed some high speed laps alongside Nicole in her 300bhp Ginetta G50. The Olympian then took the wheel himself, in one of the Trackdays.ie race prepared Honda Civics and impressed his instructor with his immediate pace.

In August of this year, 60 Irish students will travel to Tapei as the Student Sport Ireland team for the World University Games.

The Games act as a significant learning and training opportunity for both athletes and officials in a high performance and global multi-sport environment, which places both athletes and officials at an advantage for the Olympic Games.

Student Sport Ireland is the sole sanctioning body responsible for identifying, selecting and coordinating the Irish delegation to the 2017 Games.

Nicole Drought, 22, is a native of Roscrea in Tipperary. A former All Ireland winning Camogie Captain, she made her motor racing debut in 2015, driving a 250bhp Honda Integra in the Irish Touring Car Championship.

In 2016, she became the first Irish Ambassador for the Sean Edwards Foundation and accepted their invitation to travel to Le Castellet in France to test a GT3 Porsche 911. Also in 2016, she became a member of the Murphy Prototypes Young Driver programme and attended an ELMS race in France with the Irish based European sportscar team.

In December 2016, Nicole was voted sportswomen.ie Irish Sportswoman of The Year, taking a massive 20pc of the public vote- the first for a racing driver against far higher profile sports.

Thomas Barr is 400M Hurdler from Dunmore East in County Waterford. A six time Irish Champion, Thomas won Gold at the 2015 World University Games and finished fourth in the Olympic Games 2016 in Rio.

In 2011 he made University of Limerick his high performance home. Since then he has climbed the ranks and broken the national U23 and senior records in the process, and represented Ireland numerous times on the European and world stages.

All the way through, completing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and after four years was awarded a first class honours degree.  In 2016 he graduated from UL with a Masters in Sports Performance.

Think the Irish weather is bad?

This is what happened to a motorist — and probably more than him — when he drove into a hailstorm in Colorado.

Captur is revised

Renault has revised its best-selling Captur small crossover, giving it a more distinctive look, writes Brian Byrne.
 
Closer in style to the Kadjar and upcoming Koleos, the Captur now comes also with a higher quality interior as well as a new Signature S Nav range-topper grade.
 
The car retains the two-tone paintwork theme of the original and continues with the extensive personalisation possibilities.
 
More chrome details and skid plates front and rear emphasise the lines of the car, which was the best selling B-segment crossover in Europe last year.
 
Further connectivity is available, with the Captur now compatible with Android Auto.
 
Three petrol and two diesel powertrains are available to choose from.

Mullingar Autos join Fiat dealer network

Mullingar Autos have been added to the Fiat Professional Ireland dealer network as its newest sales and aftersales partner, writes Trish Whelan.

The family-run business will represent Fiat Professional across the midland counties and will stock a range of the company’s vehicles including the Fiorino, Doblo, Talento and Ducato vans as well as the recently launched Fiat Fullback pick-up.

Mullingar Autos was set up in the 1970s and has grown to include a fully equipped car service and accident repair department as well as VTN light commercial testing and 24-hour recovery. 

Pictured above are Shane Dunne, Jim Bourke (Dealer Principal), Mullingar Autos; Paul Hunt (MD of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) and Tim Cronin (also FCA Ireland).

The Mullingar Autos' Fiat Professional Team are pictured below. 

Elegance to the fore at Louise Kennedy event

Elegance and style were to the fore when an influential audience of Mercedes-Benz lady owners were guests at an exclusive presentation in Luttrellstown Castle recently at which Irish fashion designer, Louise Kennedy, presented garments from her 2017 Spring/Summer collection, writes Trish Whelan.

There to catch their eye as guests made their way towards the red carpet was a display of the very latest new model introductions from Mercedes-Benz - a range that includes the elegant E-Class Coupe and the top-of-the-range S-Class Cabriolet.

Pictured standing with Louise alongside the new S-Class Cabriolet are Mercedes-Benz chief executive Stephen Byrne; marketing executive Fiona Fennell, and sales manager Ciaran Allen.

Doireann becomes a Renault Brand Ambassador

Best known for her impressions of Ireland’s top bloggers and personalities, Doireann Garrihy has been announced as a Renault Ireland Brand Ambassador, writes Trish Whelan.

As the Entertainment Reporter for radio stations Spin 1038 and Spin South West, Doireann most recently took home the prize for Most Stylish Online Influencer at this year’s VIP Style Awards. 

She will be hitting the road in the New Renault Clio in an eye-catching exterior colour of Mars Red.

Doireann comes from a family of entertainers; her actor sister Aoibhin appeared on the Renault-sponsored Dancing with the Stars on RTE earlier this year, while her sister Ailbhe runs speech and drama classes and is also involved in marketing the family’s business.

Liz O’Gorman, Marketing Manager Renault Ireland wished Doireann safe and happy driving from all at Renault Ireland. Both are pictured above with the new Renault Clio.

Skoda offering €4k scrappage or 0% finance

This July, for the 172 registration period, Skoda customers will be able to transform their old car into €4,000 when they buy a new Skoda at their local authorised Skoda dealer, writes Trish Whelan.

The offer will be launched as part of their Open Event which runs from Saturday 17 May to Saturday 10 June, when 0pc finance will also be offered across a range of Skoda models including the Fabia, Octavia and Superb.

SIMI want to attract top talent to Motor Industry

Attracting top talent for the motor industry is a priority for Gavin Hydes, the newly elected President of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, writes Trish Whelan.

Mr Hydes was elected to the top post yesterday at the organisation’s AGM held in Naas, Co Kildare.

The Motor Industry contributes over €1.5 billion to the Exchequer in taxation and provides over 41,000 jobs nationally.

The new President feels it is critical for the Motor Industry to communicate ‘the exciting and dynamic career opportunities that are available in so many diverse sectors’. “It is important that we are able to attract the very top talent that our businesses will require going forward. It is a cutting edge, fast paced and ever changing industry that has a lot to offer its future employees and this should appeal to those seeking a rewarding career.”

Gavin Hydes said he was extremely privileged, and pleased, to assume the duties of President of SIMI and believes that as an Industry ‘we are in a stronger more sustainable position and have a more robust business model across all sectors as a result of the challenges faced by the Motor Industry over the last couple of years.”

Having worked in all areas of the business, Gavin takes on his new role having gained in-depth knowledge, understanding and expertise in virtually all areas of the Motor Industry in Ireland. He commented “With all the fast pace of technological advances and the range of energy options (Hybrid, Electric, Petrol, Diesel), it is an exciting time to be part of Ireland’s Motor Industry.”

SEAT's new Ibiza here in late June

SEAT's new generation Ibiza will be delivered to first customers in Ireland in latr June, at a starting price of €14,995, writes Brian Byrne.

It will come in four trip options, and with 1.0 and 1.5 petrol engines with outputs of 75hp, 95hp, 115hp,  and with 1.6 diesel engines of 80hp and 95hp. A 150hp 1.5 will power the flagship FR version.

Sharply styled, the new car is wider than the predecessor and has a longer wheelbase, offering the opportunity of more room in the back.

It is an all new car, the first in the Volkswagen Group to use the MBQ AO platform.

SEAT has announced a special 3-2-1 offer which provides customers with a three years free service plan, 2pc PCP and one year's free road tax. The offer ends on July 31st.

The car can be pre-ordered now at SEAT Ireland dealerships.

Vito proves reliable asset for charity

Mercedes-Benz in Ireland is supporting the Jack & Jill Foundation’s fundraising drive for home nursing care and respite support for sick children nationwide via its donation of a Vito van to the children’s charity, writes Trish Whelan.

The Foundation’s branded ‘No care like home care’ van is used to transport goods between Jack & Jill’s charity boutiques across counties Wicklow and Kildare.

Operating from headquarters in Johnstown, the Vito has journeyed a distance of more than 100,000kms requiring nothing more than scheduled maintenance, helping the charity with its fundraising drive across the charity shops, revenue from which funds essential home nursing care hours.

Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles sales manager in Ireland, Fergus Conheady, acknowledged the great use to which the Vito is being put, noting that it is only through use of this kind that businesses can know that ‘its support for charitable ventures is fully valued’.

Hugo Jellett, CEO of the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation acknowledged the ongoing support of Mercedes-Benz saying, “The success of our charity shop network just wouldn’t be what it is today without the support of our very reliable and well-travelled Vito.

“On behalf of the 300 sick children and their families under our wing today, I want to say a huge thank you to Mercedes-Benz and we hope to continue and expand this partnership into the future.”

Pictured alongside the Vito, decorated in Jack & Jill imagery, are Fergus Conheady, Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles sales manager and chief executive Stephen Byrne. Jack & Jill Foundation founder, Jonathan Irwin, is pictured in the driver’s seat. 

New Mazda CX-5 in June

The Mazda CX-5 has been a pretty key car for the brand in many markets since it was first launched, and in Ireland it is consistently the third biggest seller and responsible for a fifth of all Mazda registrations, writes Brian Byrne.

Which is why dealers are getting ready to have the new generation of the car on sale from 1 June, at a starting price of €28,995 on the road for the Executive 2.0 petrol. Available with 2.0 petrol of 165hp and 2.2 diesels of 150/175hp, it will also offer full automatic transmissions and an AWD version.

A 9-model lineup will offer three grades. There have been significant changes. The style is less bullnose, with a shift to a more defined version of the grille, sleeker lights, and a generally smoother look.

The interior materials are a step up from before, and the overall dashboard design is moved on from the style which pertained in the outgoing car, first launched in 2012.

There are changes under the skin. The platform has been refined and strengthened. The noise, vibration and harshness elements have been further toned down, especially the noise part.

Safety features include a standard automatic emergency braking system — smart city brake support — that fully stops the vehicle when the car's sensors note an imminent crash.

There's an active cruise control, and also new LED lights which fully adapt to prevailing light and driving conditions. A head-up display is also available at upper levels.

New seats include an option of heated rear seats, and there's also an offer of a powered tailgate, which can be operated by a 'kick' across the space underneath the rear.

Mazda Ireland is expecting to sell some 700 units in the first full year of the new model. There are about 2,500 owners of the current car in Ireland.

Munster Autocross Round 3 preview

The Clare Motor Club are running their second loose autocross of the year in Ballycumber, CoOffaly on Sunday next May 21st, writes Austin Shinnors. 

The Clare Autocross is the third round of the Munster Autocross Championship and the opening round of the National Autocross Championship (Loose).

Entries for Sunday's autocross are available from  Triona McGrath, 1A Moyglas, Crusheen, Clare. 0879822092 trimcgrath@hotmail.com by  Thursday 18 May 17. No entries will be accepted accepted on the day. Neither will Telephone entries  be accepted. The entry fee is  €100, while the Junior entry fee is €50.

In the Munster Championship there is a dead heat at the top of the leaderboard. Clareman Brian Hassett has 36 points and shares top spot with Corkman Paul O' Driscoll. Two other drivers from the rebel county are third and fourth: Fachtna O' Driscoll third has 26 points while Brian O' Mahoney has a total of 21. Tipperary driver and winner of the last round James Lahart trails O' Mahoney by a single point. In the saloon category Johnny Kenneally leads the way in his Subaru Impreza ahead of William Meade (Nova) and Ger O Connell (Celica).

Brian Hassett, pictured above, claimed victory on Round One. He will be looking forward to extending his championship on his home race next Sunday. Photo: Pablo Photography.

The 2017 Munster Autocross is supported by O’Shea Bus Hire, Barrett International Transport, Daly Motor Services and Pablo Photography.

Review: Peugeot Traveller

When you base an MPV on a van, especially a medium van, it will inevitably look and feel like … well, a van, writes Brian Byrne.

It’s partly a size thing, partly the shape, which if it is any useful of a van at all, it has to have the shape that will accommodate packages and pallets in the most efficient way.

Of course, when it comes to the Peugeot Expert van on which the Peugeot Traveller people carrier is based, well the platform is the same one that underpins other MPVs in the PSA Group …. such as the Citroen C4 Picasso, and just recently the new 3008 crossover.

So, the Traveller is an MPV based on a van based on an MPV … which is why all variants are so comfortable.

Audi launches Inspiration 172 event

Ahead of the July 172 registration period, Audi Ireland is offering Irish motorists special finance offers on Personal Contract Plan (PCP) with APR rates from 2.9pc per month, as well as a number of exclusive upgrade packages across a range of its 172 models, writes Trish Whelan.

The Audi Inspiration 172 Sales Event takes place across 11 authorised Audi dealerships nationwide from this week to 31 July.

The A4 (pictured above) continues to be class leader and was the best-selling saloon in its premium segment for Q1 this year. The A4 is available from €349 per month PCP, and comes with the option of an Audi A4 Limited Edition 50 Pack which includes Metallic paint with a choice of four colours, front sport seats, an ambient interior lighting pack, and 18-inch alloys. This package retails at €1,500 which represents a saving of over €1,300 to the customer.

Audi’s Q2 crossover is available from €309 per month PCP. With an APR of 2.9pc, the A6 (pictured below) is available with Audi MMI navigation plus with touch pad and an interior lighting pack with prices from €389 per month PCP.

Prices for revised Skoda Octavia Scout

Skoda Ireland has released prices for the revised Octavia Scout 4x4 variant, starting at €35,495, writes Brian Byrne.

Two versions will be available, with 150hp and 184hp 2.0 diesel engines, the latter with an automated gearbox.

With improved connectivity, the vehicle will come as standard with infotainment online, allowing the driver to access news, weather and parking data.

New French President chooses DS for inauguration

If you were wondering what that vehicle was in which France’s new President rode during his inauguration at the weekend, it was the first public viewing of the new DS 7 Crossback, writes Brian Byrne.

The specially-personalised vehicle has an opening roof so President Emmanuel Macron could greet the French crowd on the Champs-Elysées.

The vehicle was revealed just two months ago by the luxury car division of PSA group.

The ‘Presidential’ car featured French Republic signature badging and a Tricolour flag holder. It is now on display at DS World at 33 François 1e street in Paris.

Motorsport Roundup

The Derry-Cork pairing of Marty McCormack and David Moynihan were the runaway winners of the Donegal Abbey Hotel Forest Rally, the third round of the Valvoline National Forestry Championship, writes Richard Burke. 

Driving their Skoda Fabia, they led from start to finish, setting best times on seven of the eight stages to beat nearest rivals Patrick and Stephen O'Brien by more than a minute.

The Escort of David Crossen from Comber was best of the two wheel drive cars, taking third place overall, with Mickey Conlon fifth in another Escort.

Gary Turkington won the Senior and Masters Final at Athboy Karting Centre in Co Meath, half a second ahead of Ross Hayes, while Ian O'Connell took top place in the Naas Driving Academy Autocross run by GSMC at Naul in north Co Dublin.

Motorsport Ireland Young Racing Driver of the Year Cian Carey (pictured) scored a fourth and two sixth places in the British Formula 3 Cup series at Snetterton, in Norfolk, despite problems when he made a wrong tyre choice in very changeable weather conditions. He was up to second place in the opening race until the track dried out and other drivers who had selected slick tyres were able to forge through the field in the closing laps.

Supercars stand at IVVCC Festival of Transport

Ferrari F40.

Over €200m worth of supercars will be on display at the Chubb Insurance stand at the Festival of Transport in Punchestown next Sunday, writes Brian Byrne.

They include a 250 Short Wheelbase Ferrari, Blower Bentley, 275 Four Cam Ferrari, an original C Type Jaguar, a DB3 “S” Aston Martin and a Ferrari F40.

The Festival is being organised by the Irish Vintage & Veteran Car Club, who expect there will be over 1,000 vehicles there.

Jaguar C Type.

It is the first time the IVVCC have organised their own show. It is open from 10am-5pm and admission is €10 for adults with children getting in free.

In addition to the cars, motorcycles and steam engines on display, there will be over 40 trade & autojumble stands, along with face painting, ballooning and rides for the children.

A great family day out. (Apologies for the earlier typo which suggested €100 entry fee!!)

ZOE EV says ‘bye bye’ to range anxiety

Concern over range anxiety has prevented many motorists, especially those who live outside urban areas, from buying an electric car, either as the sole family car, or as a second car, writes Trish Whelan. 

While Renault’s little electric city car, ZOE, is easy to charge, has zero emissions, lots of technology features, and some new colours, it’s what is under the car’s skin that has now changed so dramatically from the previous model. Fitted with the new Z.E. 40 battery, ZOE now offers double the driving range compared to when the model first went on sale in 2013. 

The new ZE 40 battery now provides the longest range of any mainstream electric vehicle of up to 400km (NEDC) which the Irish company estimates to be 300km of range in real-world driving. Renault says this removes the final psychological barrier that stands in the way of buying an electric car, which is the so-called ‘range anxiety’.

At yesterday’s press launch of the ZOE with the 40 battery, Jeremy Warnock, Product Manager, Renault Group Ireland, said what people really want to know is if the range will fit their everyday driving be they from urban or rural areas. 

He said: “This extended range means users no longer need to worry about charging their car as often and can put it to a wider variety of uses. Using mostly motorways, you are looking at a range of about 200kms.” Degenerative braking helps recharge the battery every time you brake, so ZOE is ideal for city driving in this regard. 

Versions are Expression Nav, Dynamique Nav and Signature Nav.

The car is now available from €23,490. This price includes SEAI grant (€5,000) and VRT relief is for the entry Expression Nav version, with a 22kW/h battery. Key specs include Climate Control, R-Link Navigation and the Chameleon Charger. The mid spec adds hands free card, 16-inch alloys and rear parking sensors. The new Signature version is mostly for customers looking for exclusive features and places the focus firmly on style and elegance. It can be specified in an exclusive Ytrium Grey finish and has 16-inch diamond-effect Shadow Black wheels, R-Link multimedia navigation, premium leather upholstery BOSE audio, heated front seats and lumbar support for the driver’s seat.

The ZE 40 battery is standard on the Dynamique Nav and Signature Nav versions, at €27,490 and €29,990. All prices now include the battery so there’s no additional expense of a battery lease.

ZOE can be charged quickly with the Renault-patented Chameleon smart charger which adapts to the different power levels available at charging points and takes 30 minutes to charge an extra 80km when the car is plugged into one of the many public charging points available across Ireland and Europe. Most owners will charge their car at home for the full 300km range. There are 1,200 public charging points currently located around Ireland, all controlled by the ESB, and 80 fast charging points positioned mostly on motorways. 

At yesterday’s press launch, we got to drive the car from The Radisson Hotel on the Stillorgan Road in Dublin, over an extended route taking in all sorts of roads including city suburbs, driving out the N7 as far as Rathcoole (where a group of schoolchildren excitedly pointed to the car recognising it as an electric car when they couldn’t hear the sound of the engine), then along some hilly routes above that village, before taking the road to Blessington and enjoying a lake drive from Lacken to Valleymount before moving to County Kildare and a part of the 448 towards Castledermot, exiting for the Athy Road at Ballitore and our destination, Burtown House for a press conference and lunch. A fair distance in all. I then drove the exact same car back to The Radisson when the trip computer showed 83kms of power left with 183.9kms done since the last full charge. So no, I experienced no range anxiety whatsoever. 

On the road, the R90 electric motor instantly delivers maximum torque of 225Nm producing brisk acceleration and pickup from low speeds. The car can accelerate from standstill to 50km/h, the normal speed limit on city roads, in just four seconds. 

There was little or no engine sound, and if you press a certain button on the dash, it becomes even quieter still. I found the car so easy to handle, it’s also extremely agile and can park in a pretty tiny space. I certainly enjoyed the drive and the whole ambience of the car’s interior which is a very comfy place to be in. There’s a good boot, but no spare. One thing to watch out for in all electric cars is to make sure the engine is turned off before you exit, as it’s easy to leave the car with the engine still on as there’s absolutely no sound.

There are more than 100,000 Renault electric vehicles currently in Europe, with more than one in four EVs a Renault, ZOE is Europe’s best-selling electric vehicle and has won won customer satisfaction awards. 

Patrick Magee, Country Operations Manager, Renault Group Ireland yesterday said it’s important to get people into the car to see it for themselves and ‘the ZE 40’s long range battery gives people real confidence, and makes the electric car a real option for more people than ever’. 

He said: “Renault is offering potential customers a 24-hour test drive programme which gives them the chance to experience this confidence for themselves. Ireland is ready for EVs thanks partly to the size of the country, but also the extensive public charging network - and new ZOE is the perfect car to make the most of this.”

Mr Magee is pictured below with the New ZOE.

New Peugeot 308 here this autumn

Peugeot has unveiled its new-generation 308 model ahead of its arrival in dealer showrooms in Ireland this autumn, and in good time for the 181-registration period, writes Trish Whelan.

The 308, historically the company’s best-selling model, will be offered in both hatchback and station-wagon body styles, with both petrol and diesel engines, and six trims levels. It will also debut the latest-generation Peugeot powertrains and a new 8-speed automatic gearbox.

New exterior styling features include a redesigned, sleek bonnet and an assertive vertical grille with the Lion badge and latest LED light signature. 

Inside, the Peugeot i-Cockpit’s touchscreen offers new graphics and rapid access to the car’s functions, including advanced driver assistance systems and 3D sat nav.

Trims are Access, Active, Allure, GT Line GT and GTi. Depending on trim, features include Active Safety Brake, Active Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Visiopark with 180deg rear camera and Park Assist function which measures the parking space available and actually steers the car in.

Efficient petrol and diesel engines offer a compromise between high performance and low fuel consumption.

The PureTech petrol engine has had a major upgrade with at-exhaust emission control for low real-life fuel consumption and the company says that a new six-speed manual gearbox ‘reaps the maximum benefit of this high-performance 130hp engine’. 

The new 308 is the first PSA group model to get the new BlueHDi 130 S&S four-cylinder diesel engine. The BlueHDi 180 diesel, exclusive to the 308 GT, is matched to a new-generation EAT8 automatic transmission, a powerful and highly efficient powertrain which Peugeot say provides 'a sensational driving experience'.

The new 308 (pictured above) and 308 SW (pictured below) are made at the company’s Sochaux plant in France. Further details, and prices, will be revealed closer to launch.