New Audi Q7 here later this year

The new Audi Q7 will be launched here later in the year with seven seats and a striking new visual design with clear SUV characteristics, and top of the line connectivity, writes Trish Whelan.

Two engines will be offered at launch followed shortly afterwards by a plug-in hybrid model. All are matched to an eight-speed tiptronic transmission and permanent all-wheel-drive.

The car has now grown to 5,063 millimetres long; luggage capacity varies between 865L and 2,050L, depending on if used as a five-seater or with all seats in use.

The premium SUV features the new design of the Q family. Key features are its excellent comfort and spaciousness, Mild Hybrid Technology, the digital operating concept, and the optional HD Matrix LED headlights including laser light. The MMI navigation system delivers top-of-the-range connectivity with a Wi-Fi hotspot, natural voice control and the extensive Audi connect portfolio which ranges from traffic information online, navigation with Google Earth and hybrid radio. Audi's digital virtual cockpit, and the optional head-up display, are features.

An electric tailgate is standard; foot-activated gesture control is an option.

In addition to the optimised all-wheel steering that allows the rear wheels to turn as much as five degrees in the opposite direction, there's the option of electromechanical active roll stabilisation. Adjustable stabilisers reduce the body movements on uneven roads when driving in a straight line.

Audi say the Q7 is manoeuvrable, precise and agile in urban traffic and on hairpin bends and behaves as a highly comfortable, poised touring SUV with excellent ride comfort on motorways, particularly in conjunction with the adaptive air suspension. It also provides variable ground clearance and prepares the car with its standard quattro drive for terrain off the beaten track. The offroad mode can be selected via the standard Audi drive select dynamic handling system with its seven profiles. Air suspension is standard on all Q7 models.

Audi say the car is particularly striking in S line guise which includes the slightly firmer adaptive air suspension sport which lowers the ride height by 15mm compared with the regular air suspension system.

Prices to be announced closer to launch.

Kia reveals XCeed urban crossover

The Kia XCeed is a new urban crossover utility vehicle (CUV) from Kia Motors which combines compact SUV practicality with the sporty packaging and the sporty handling of a hatchback, writes Trish Whelan.

It will go on sale in Ireland towards the end of September with a Plug-in Hybrid variant following in early 2020.

Competing in the C-segment, it is the latest addition to the Kia portfolio and takes the Ceed model family in a new direction, designed to achieve the cabin and storage space of an SUV in a sportier body with a more compact footprint.

It offers comparable levels of space for occupants and luggage (from 426 litres to 1,378L with rear seats folded down). This newcomer also provides a more commanding view of the road ahead than a conventional hatchback.

The XCeed's suite of advanced safety, connectivity and infotainment features make it one of the most high-tech cars in the CUV class.

It is also one of the most efficient powered by a range of fast-revving, turbocharged engines.

Three turbocharged petrol engines are on offer: a 1.0 T-GDi 120hp and a four-cylinder 1.4 T-GDi with 140hp and 242Nm torque. The high-power 1.6 T-GDi (found in the Ceed GT and ProCeed GT) with 204hp and 265Nm torque is also available. Two clean diesel engines are also offered, a 1.6 Smartstream with either 115hp or 136hp.

The car will be built at the brand's European production facility in Zilina, Slovakia alongside the Ceed five-door hatchback, Ceed Sportswagon, and ProCeed five-door shooting brake.

Kia says by merging the strengths of both hatchback and SUV, the new XCeed offers something refreshing and different for European customers and that the expanded Ceed range now offers buyers more choice in this class than any other manufacturer.

XCeed will be sold as standard with Kia's industry-leading 7-Year, 150,000 kilometre warranty.

Ford's Puma Crossover comes with seductive styling

Ford has today unveiled the new Ford Puma - an SUV-inspired compact crossover that fuses 'stunning exterior design, best-in-class load space, and sophisticated mild-hybrid powertrain technology', writes Trish Whelan.

It introduces a new chapter in Ford's design identity with styling cues such as the wing-top mounted headlamps and athletic, aerodynamic lines. It comes with a raised ride-height and a luggage capacity of 456 litres.

Puma uses Ford's EcoBoost Hybrid 48-volt technology together with a three-cylinder 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine to deliver up to 155hp. There's also a 125hp unit with 131g/km C02 emissions and a claimed 5.8 L/100km fuel efficiency. A diesel powertrain option and seven-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission will join the line-up after launch.

Advanced driver assistance technologies include Adaptive Cruise Control and New Local Hazard information which can inform the driver of hazardous situations in the road ahead before they become visible to the driver or vehicle sensors.

Puma is also the first vehicle in its segment to offer hands-free tailgate and Lumbar Massage seat comfort and convenience technologies.

The new Puma crossover comes with distinctive personalities including the sporty Puma ST-Line and stylish Puma Titanium, reflecting individual customers' preferences.

The Ford Performance-inspired Puma ST-Line is offered with 18-inch standard or 19-inch optional alloy wheels and a sports suspension with specially tuned springs and shock absorbers.

Puma will go on sale at the end of the year and will be produced with 'exceptional craftsmanship and quality' at Ford's Craiova Assembly Plant in Romania, following nearly €1.5 billion investment since 2008.

Motor Industry 'at a cliff edge' - SIMI

"Our Industry is very concerned and angry at the possibility of sleepwalking into another potential 2009," states Brian Cooke, Director General of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry.

SIMI warns that the Motor Industry and the motorist are facing the greatest change in taxation since 2009 which undermined both new and used car sales by being too ambitious and seeking to implement change too quickly.

Overnight car values plummeted, new car sales declined and the Industry fell of a cliff. That, together with a recession, resulted in the closure of 150 family businesses, 14,700 jobs lost and over €1 billion in lost revenue for the Exchequer.

The looming Budget 2020 brings a very concerning feeling of Deja vu.

Brian Cooke.

SIMI continues to highlight the need for extreme caution in dealing with motor related taxation in the upcoming Budget, doubly so now that the Budget almost coincides with the Brexit date.

The Economic Statement issued by the Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe yesterday outlined that budgetary policy is not a one size fits all, and highlighted the huge difficulty in framing a Budget for next year.

Brian Cooke of SIMI outlines the major concerns facing the Industry.

“In this already fragile business environment for car retailers, it is vital that Budget 2020 recognises the importance of new cars; to the economy in terms of local employment and in terms of tax revenues; and to the environment as the renewal of the Irish car fleet with new vehicles is the only way to make a material and sustainable move to reducing emissions from the private car. Our Industry is very concerned and angry at the possibility of sleepwalking into another potential 2009.

"The State must stop overburdening new cleaner cars with tax, while at the same time ignoring the problem of replacing older cars, which is where the real emissions problems lie. In fact, it’s even worse, the VRT system discriminates against new cars when compared to older used imports. It would appear from various publications that the new car is being lined up as the easy target as if new cars are the main issue. Newer cars have the most up-to-date emission technologies and are less environmentally damaging than older used cars. Uncertainty in the market leads to consumers holding onto their older car or importing an older car that is perceived to be good value.

"With the full move to WLTP emissions testing on the horizon, Budget 2020 must make allowance for the difference between the new and old emission testing systems. Most other EU countries have followed the EU Commission view that consumers should not be faced with increased taxation due to the new emissions testing regime. Ireland should be no different.  We should be selling 150,000 new cars each year, but with threats of Brexit this number has already fallen to 112,000. If a VRT increase is thrown into the mix for 2020, we will see a further fall; history, in particular 2009, tells us what can happen.

"Last week the Government’s Climate Action Plan proposed a transition to zero emission transport, which the Industry fully supports and is proactively engaged in rolling out cleaner technologies. However, it is important to note that this transition is not deliverable in the short-term, as it will take a number of years to achieve, longer than is proposed in the Plan. We require the right measures that focus on gradual change and include sensible policies aimed at encouraging motorists to make the right choices that can lead to clean, affordable and convenient mobility solutions. This can only be achieved by allowing the new car market to flourish in 2020, which has clear environmental and economic benefits".

Mr Cooke concludes by saying: "So let’s not make the mistakes of the past. Progressive changes to VRT should be focused at replacing older cars with new ones. This is the only way to start the transition to a low and ultimately zero-emission free fleet. In that way we will all win, the consumer, the Industry, the Environment, protecting the 47,000 jobs and businesses in our communities.”

Review: Kia ProCeed by Trish Whelan

Kia’s mid-sized ProCeed widens the appeal of the Ceed model range and is expected to play a big role in the Korean car maker's ongoing growth in Europe, writes Trish Whelan.

Like its siblings, this car was designed, developed and engineered by Kia’s European teams in Frankfurt and is manufactured at the brand’s factory in Slovakia.

It now has five doors, a nod to Europe’s shrinking market for three-door hatches. It is beautifully proportioned, curvy, low, lean and lithe, a little longer and lower than the Sportswagon and Ceed five-door hatch. The suspension is 10mm lower than its companions, and tall people should mind their heads when getting in and out, or even when reaching in to collect belongings.

Irish Van of the Year 2019 Category Winners

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Business and Mercedes Benz X-Class have been named Category Winners of the Irish Van of the Year 2019 in association with Continental Tyres.

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Business took the Irish Commercial SUV of the Year award while the Mercedes-Benz X-Class won the Irish Pick Up of the Year award.

The Irish Van of the Year awards are voted upon by a jury of Ireland’s most experienced light commercial vehicle journalists.

In deciding on these category winners, the Irish Van of the Year committee members took into account such attributes as load capacity, reliability, overall versatility, cost of ownership and driving comfort.

Presenting the awards to Jason Byrne of Mitsubishi Ireland, and Fergus Conheady, Mercedes Benz Ireland; Tom Dennigan of awards sponsor Continental Tyres Ireland commented: “In today’s tough commercial vehicle market, these two vehicles have been singled out by the Irish Van of the Year experts. I am sure that these awards will be a huge bonus to the winning vehicles as we enter the 192 registration market.”

Anthony Conlon, Irish Van of the Year committee member, said: “In assessing candidates for the Irish Van of the Year category awards, our jurors pay close attention to how the vehicles meet the particular requirements of the Irish market – that is why these recommendations are so useful to Irish van / commercial drivers and fleet managers”.

Jarlath Sweeney, Irish Van of the Year committee member, added: “For both of these category awards, there was an extremely strong field of contenders and it is interesting to see the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Business come out on top – plug in hybrid vehicles and, indeed, full electric commercial vehicles are becoming more and more popular as they help companies and public bodies meet their commitments in relation to reducing emissions from their business fleets”.

The Commercial SUV and Pick Up of the Year titles are category awards under the umbrella of the annual Irish Van of the Year awards, in association with Continental Tyres.  The overall Irish Van of the Year award for 2019 was won by the Mercedes Benz Sprinter.

Pictured above at the presentation of the category awards were: Jason Byrne of Mitsubishi Ireland; Anthony Conlon, Irish Van of the Year Committee; Tom Dennigan, Continental Tyres Ireland; Jarlath Sweeney, Irish Van of the Year Committee; and Fergus Conheady, Mercedes Benz Ireland.

Volkswagen Group supports plan to e-Mobility

Carla Wentzel, Group Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Ireland addresses journalists

Volkswagen Group Ireland, which is responsible for more than 26 per cent of new passenger cars sales in Ireland through brands Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, Skoda and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, has welcomed the Government's proposed direction of the Climate Action Plan to reduce C02 emissions, writes Trish Whelan.

Volkswagen Group is committed to the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement which envisions a climate-neutral society by 2050. The VW Group is convinced that e-mobility is the best and most efficient path to a clean, climate neutral mobility.

Audi e-tron

Over the next five years, Volkswagen Group is investing around €30 billion in electric mobility. This includes the introduction of electric vehicles, C02 neutral production, up to providing its customers with a green energy contract to ensure 'actual' zero emissions during the usage phase of the vehicle. The Group is planning to launch almost 70 new electric models in the next ten years.

At this stage, year to date (May) 2019, 2,700 EVs and PHEVs have been registered in Ireland, a potential of up to 4,500 by the end of the year. With the arrival of the latest generation of electric vehicles, like the Audi e-tron and the future Volkswagen ID.3, SEAT el-born and Skoda Vision iV, Volkswagen Group Ireland believes that the electric mobility market has a strong potential going forward, with a forecast of 21 per cent of total new car registrations by 2021.

However, the growth needs to be supported by public charging infrastructure and incentives from the Government to replace older combustion engine cars, by new cleaner electric, plug-in hybrids and also latest-generation EU6 petrol and diesel engines as they will still be an important contribution to achieving the EU emissions targets of 95g/km by 2021 and beyond.

The Volkswagen Group intends to be at the forefront of the movement to electro-mobility.

New Skoda Octavia Soleil arrives in Ireland

Skoda's latest addition to the Octavia range called 'Soleil' is available as a hatchback or as a Combi estate body style, writes Trish Whelan.

The name 'Soleil' means sun and is derived from the brand's association with the internationally celebrated Cirque du Soleil circus.

Octavia has been a consistent best seller with 18,000 vehicles delivered to customers in the last five years and holds the position of the fourth best-selling car in Ireland over the same period.

The Czech brand are confident the new Soleil model will deliver a strong finish to the end of the year as the brand enters the top-five best-selling brands in Ireland for the first time.

Key features are the car's 590 litres of boot capacity and what Skoda say is 'unrivalled interior cabin spaciousness'.

Low fuel consumption is assured with a turbo charged line up of TSI petrol engines including the 1.0 TSI 115bhp; and the frugal 1.6 TDI 115bhp available with both manual and DSG automatic transmissions.

Prices start from €24,700 for the 1.0 115bhp and Skoda expect the Soleil model to account for up to 90 per cent of its Octavia sales to the end of the year.

The Octavia Soleil is now available to test drive at Skoda dealerships with vehicles available for 192 July delivery. Skoda dealers will be providing 9 per cent finance on all Soleil models up to the end of July. The Soleil is a limited edition Octavia with limited stock so potential customers are advised to hold early discussions with their local Skoda dealer.

Quest teams up with Volvo Car Ireland

Quest Adventure Series has welcomed Volvo Car Ireland as their official event vehicle partner across Quest events for 2019, writes Trish Whelan.

Quest adventure races involve running, cycling and kayaking across various distances in remote, beautiful and challenging locations.

Volvo will sponsor two event vehicles for Quest over the next six months and be on hand at Quest 12/24, Quest Lough Derg and Quest Killarney so adventure racers can get to grips with the vehicles themselves.

Adventure racing has become a popular past-time in Ireland in recent years with over 10,000 participants taking part in Quest events across the year. An alternative to triathlon and the popular mass participation half-marathons and other runs on offer, adventure racing extends beyond the physical and fosters a great sense of camaraderie and fun as part of the races.

The new partnership is founded on core values shared between Volvo and Quest including respect and care for the environment, sustainability and a sense of adventure. Both also share a focus on people, helping them to enjoy active lifestyles and explore new opportunities.

Volvo's model range is well suited to the world of adventure with its award-winning new SUVs and estate cars that are safe, spacious and engineered for rugged performance.

Volvo also offers a range of accessories specifically designed for people who enjoy sports and adventure, from bespoke and secure cycle carriers, spacious roof boxes, and hard-wearing load compartment and cabin mats for carrying wet or dirty clothing and equipment. A range of towing gear is also available.

Oliver Kirwan, Quest founder and Race Director welcomed Volvo to Quest Adventure Series and looks forward to a positive and productive partnership while Emma O'Carroll, Marketing and PR Manager, Volvo Car Ireland said there is a sense of adventure at the heart of Volvo that makes its partnership with Quest 'a perfect fit'.

Quest 12/24 is a long-distance adventure race that takes place on Saturday 31 August, followed by Quest Lough Derg on Saturday 14 September and Quest Killarney on Saturday 12 October.

Volvo will also be present at Run Killarney on Saturday 20 July at the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney.

Register for Skoda Tour de Boyne Valley

Registration for the Tour de Boyne Valley, the final event of Skoda Celtic Cycle Series' is now open, writes Trish Whelan.

Kicking off in Drogheda on Saturday 31 August 2019, Tour de Boyne Valley promises to be a fantastic challenge for cycling enthusiasts of all levels. Cyclists will have two routes to choose from - the Boyne Valley 95km and the Boyne Valley 145km.

Hosted by Drogheda Wheelers CC, the event starts from St Mary's GFC, Donore, and both routes will take cyclists along some of the best cycling roads in Louth and Meath heading out on the coast road north of Drogheda before passing through Termonfeckin and Clogherhead, then finally, moving inland. The event will also take you through the famous Boyne Valley and past some historic monuments including Newgrange.

Registered cyclists will receive *top quality feed stations along with refueling and energy stops on the route, *a safe cycling route thanks to an experienced team of safety marshals, *bike mechanics to provide technical support for your bike, *post event masseuses to help cure the aches and pains, and *a finishers' medal.

Additionally, the first 750 cyclists to register will receive a free bespoke cycling jersey.

Prior to the event, Western Motors Skoda dealership in Drogheda will be hosting a free Pasta Party event and registration on Friday 30 August. During this time, participants can register for the event, collect their goody bag and enjoy a pre-race meal. Skoda Ireland will have top quality, high performance cycling kit available to purchase at all events throughout the summer as well as all year round via Skoda dealerships nationwide.

The Skoda Celtic Cycle Series will see over 6,000 cyclists take part in three different cycling events in 2019. The series began this year with the sellout Tour de Connemara in May, followed by Ring of Clare on 27 July. Participants can register for Tour de Boyne Valley at https://welovecycling.com/ie/events/

There is a maximum number of places available for the event so early registration is advised.

New Renault ZOE EV further extends range

The third generation of Renault’s ZOE all-electric car is on the way but pricing and specs for Ireland are yet to be announce, writes Trish Whelan.

This flagship vehicle of Renault’s 100pc electric range now comes with more power and range and an array of high-tech equipment for both driving comfort and on-board experience.

Seven years after the introduction of what has become Europe’s best-selling urban electric car, New ZOE evolves in versatility, quality and technology offering superior features, from the entry level.

Two motors are offered: the 80kW (R110) of the previous generation, and a new 100 kW (R135) which brings more power, more torque and better revving. The R135, with 245Nm torque, can achieve 0-100km/h in under 10 seconds. 

ZOE has no gearbox or clutch because of its electric motor but still retains a gear lever to switch between different driving modes or to reverse. 

There’s also a new driving ‘B’ mode which almost does away with the use of the brake pedal as when activated, the car decelerates significantly faster as soon as the driver releases the accelerator pedal, making driving easier especially when in slow city traffic. 

The new ZE 50 battery (the previous model had a 40 battery) takes its range up to 390km (WLTP and an increase of 20pc) and now also offers fast direct current charging, an addition to the alternating current charging options already available at home or on the street.

Renault claim ‘New ZOE is the only affordable electric vehicle on the market to offer AC charging up to 22 kW and DC up to 50 kW’ allowing around 150 kilometres in 30 minutes. 

All versions include 22kW AC charging as standard, ideal for the Irish public charging infrastructure as ESB eCars offer 1,000 ESB public 22kW AC charging points in Ireland and EasyGo plan to add several hundred more. City and town centre chargers in Ireland are almost always 22kW so owners are never far from a quick top-up adding up to 82kms in 30 minutes.

The car can charge from 0-100pc in 9 hours and 25 minutes using a 7 kW Wallbox allowing a complete recharge overnight; and recovers around 300 kms of range in eight hours when charged at home. 

The first ZOE in 2012 had a 22kWh battery which offered around 150 kilometres of real range; the second ZOE in 2016 with a ZE 40 battery saw the car’s real range double to 300 kilometres.

Inside, the dashboard has been completely redesigned with a new, soft and supple high-quality material.

Features include a 10-inch driver’s display on every model containing the main driving aids and all settings specific to electric driving. A 9.3-inch touch screen multimedia display that extends across the centre console giving access to all the navigation and entertainment services is standard on top specced cars. 

The brand’s Easy Link system has been improved with specific electric vehicle functions like the availability of charging stations in real-time. It also allows users can connect their smartphone and show applications via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

ZOE sales have been growing steadily since its launch and there have been nearly 150,000 registrations by the end of May 2019.

New Peugeot 2008 SUV breaks cover

Peugeot has released the first images of the new 2008 SUV due in Ireland in spring 2020, writes Trish Whelan.

The new-look 2008 offers a choice of 100pc electric, petrol or diesel powertrains. 

With three petrol and two diesel engines on offer, the new e-2008 SUV is also available with a 100kW (136bhp) electric motor and 50kWh battery. The electric SUV will achieve a 310km range. Charing time depends on the power available: 16 hours for a full charge from a domestic plug; between 5 and 15 minutes and 8 hours for a complete charge with a Wallbox (3 phase 11kW or single phase 7.4kW); 30 minutes to recover 80pc of the battery with 100kW fast-chargers. 

With the MyPeugeot app, owners will be able to pre-set the charging times, heating and air conditioning on the e-2008 SUV as well as check its current charge level remotely. 

It adopts the latest equipment and driving aids, together with the Lion Brand’s latest-generation 3D i-Cockpit.

The model exterior and interior remains the same no matter the powertrain. 

Peugeot says ‘this 2008 SUV is another step forward in our commitment of having an electrified version across our entire Peugeot range by 2023’.

Available in Active, Allure, GT Line and GT trim levels, the 2008 SUV is longer and wider with more rear room than its predecessor with boot gaining 10 litres to 434 litres, even with an electric battery in place. The 50kWh battery is under the floor so there’s no compromise to boot or interior space whichever powertrain is selected. 

The centre console comes with a 10-inch colour touchscreen (depending on trim), with 3D Navigation. Every 2008 SUV comes standard with MirrorScreen enabling MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Prices and equipment levels for the new 2008 and e-2008 range will be announced closer to launch.

Order a new SEAT and get an eXC KickScooter

SEAT has announced the arrival of the new eXC Kickscooter powered by Segway to the Irish market which will be available to order for participating SEAT retailers across the country, writes Trish Whelan.

This partnership between SEAT and Segway is in response to the growing demand for electric urban transport among commuters.

As part of its overall 192 sales campaign, SEAT here in Ireland will run a special Open Week this week to 22 June which will boast considerable savings across the SEAT range as well as a free electric scooter for those who place an order on a SEAT model during this Open Week.

Offers available include 0pc PCP finance from Volkswagen Financial Services on selected SEAT models including its SUV range of Arona, Ateca and Tarraco. Three-year service plans are also available across the SEAT range from €12.99 per month and up to a €2,000 trade-in bonus on selected models.

The eXS Kickscooter has a travel range of 25kms on the one charge and its maximum recharging time three and a half hours. The electric scooter’s top speed is 25 km/hr and it weights 12.5 kilos. Its 8-inch diameter solid rubber wheels help prevent punctures and its front and rear suspensions give it a smooth handling.

It is also equipped with a password protected app that allows the user to control the front and rear LED lights, customise ambient light, an LCD screen, cruise control setting and an anti-theft deterrent. 

The eXS KickScooter is available at SEAT retailers nationwide now with an RRP of €599.

New Subaru XV Crossover and Forrester hybrid on way

Subaru Ireland’s new e-Boxer hybrid models are set to arrive in Ireland this November, writes Trish Whelan.

The XV Crossover and all new Forester are the first two models to feature the e-Boxer, Subaru’s new-generation power unit system which combines electric motor assist with a Boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel drive.

The e-Boxer comes with a customised lineartronic transmission that integrates an electric motor, DC/DC converter and electric motor inverter.

This e-Boxer announcement follows news that Toyota and Subaru will jointly develop a BEV-dedicated platform as early as next year marking the next stage of the Subaru electrification strategy. The two companies will apply Subaru’s AWD and Toyota’s vehicle electrification technologies to jointly develop a C-segment SUV.

The Subaru e-Boxer system adjusts the power-split ratio between the dedicated 2.0 direct-injection engine and the electric motor to match the driving condition offering three driving modes; Engine driving, EV driving, and Motor Assist driving. From standstill, or at low speed, the electric motor alone powers the vehicle for a quiet and zero-emission driving. 

Depending on the driver’s driving style, fuel consumption can be reduced by up to 11pc compared to the outgoing 2.0 petrol version.

The new Forester is the most technological advanced Subaru yet, equipped with a host of new Advanced Safety technologies. It is available as standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and adds the Driver Monitoring System, a new facial recognition technology that alerts the driver of fatigue or distraction while on the road. The new model also has Reverse Automatic Braking to help avoid collisions when reversing and reduces the damage in case of collision.

The new Forester’s width is increased by 20mm over the previous model providing more front seat comfort; the wheelbase was stretched 30mm allowing for more interior space. With 220mm of ground clearance, along with the widest possible approach and departure angles, the new Forester is well suited for off-road adventures. The X-Mode is now available with dual functions suited for a variety of weather and road conditions. Forester’s towing capacity is 1870kg.

The XV Crossover was the most sold Subaru in Europe last year. It is built on the new Subaru Global Platform to achieve ‘world-class’ collision safety and superior hazard avoidance as well as increased advances in driver-responsive handling and ride comfort. Like the Forester, it is powered by a 2.0 horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine and paired with an electric motor within the customised lineartronic transmission. It also gets the EyeSight driver assist and Rear Vehicle Detection. Ground clearance is 220mm, underpinned by Subaru’s original Symmetrical AWD System, Active Torque Vectoring and an improved X-Mode system for true SUV capabilities.

The new Forester is priced at €44,495 for the SE model and comes generously equipped. Towing capacity is up to 1,800kg as standard. The SE Premium edition comes in at €48,195.

The XV Crossover is priced at €38,495 for the SE model while the SE Premium version is priced at €41,495. 

Order books are now open for both models.

Kia launches new e-Niro and e-Soul

James Brooks of Kia Motors with the new e-Niro and e-Soul 

Kia has launched two new electric vehicles to its line-up, the e-Niro and e-Soul, writes Trish Whelan.

This five-door, five-seat car completes the eco-friendly Niro crossover range alongside Niro Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid versions of which over 250,000 units have sold globally since the Niro's introduction in 2016. To date, Europe has accounted for over 100,000 sales of the hybrid crossover.

New e-Niro 

The new e-Niro was the first fully electric crossover utility vehicle produced by the Korean car maker. It went on sale in some European countries at the end of last year. It is equipped with a high-capacity 64 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides a driving range of up to 455 kms on a single charge (282 miles) on the WLTP combined cycle.

Plugged into a 100 kW fast charger, it takes just 42 minutes to recharge from 20pc to 80pc.

e-Niro interior.

Features include a range of dedicated EV in-car technologies, new safety features, and a stylish exterior and interior design.

Kia say it offers buyers a convincing alternative to compact crossovers powered by traditional petrol or diesel internal combustion engines and gives owners the opportunity to complete both long distance drives and daily commutes with zero emissions and very low running costs.

The physical transmission has been replaced with a new 'shift-by-wire' rotator dial drive selector which extends out from the base of the central arm rest. The pair of paddles behind the steering wheel let drivers choose between five levels of energy regeneration and the driver can chose from Eco, Normal and Dynamic modes.

An 8-inch touchscreen enables owners source nearby charging points and monitor the level of remaining charge and range.

At 4,375 mm in length, it offers more cargo space at 451 litres than many other plug-in and electric vehicles. This can extend to 1,405 litres with rear seats folded.

The Medium Range option is from €33,495, has a range of up to 289 on a full charge, VRT relief and grants up to €10,000, a grant up to €600 for a home charger, and no BIK for company car drivers. The Long Range version, priced from €37,495, has a range of up to 455 on a full charge and the same grants as with the Medium Range and no BIK for company car drivers.

The new e-Niro is produced at Kia's Hwasung manufacturing facility in Korea. It is covered by Kia's 7-year, 150,000km warranty as standard. The warranty also covers the battery pack and electric motor.

New e-Soul.

The funky new Kia e-Soul brings long-range, zero-emissions power to the urban crossover class.

The Kia Soul is back on sale in Ireland but this time as a high spec, high tech EV with a long range of 452kms (280 miles WLTP) on a single charge as standard.

Kia claims it is up to 30pc more energy efficient than Europe's current best-selling electric car.

Two trims are offered and just the long range (64kw/452km) powerplant. Both trim levels are generous and feature 10.25-inch touchscreen AV/Nav display and 7-inch supervision cluster and safety features including Lane Keep Assist, Smart Cruise Control and Front Collision Avoidance.

Additional features on the K2 include full leather trim, Harmon Kardon Sound System, Heads Up Display and Blind Spot Detection. The K2 comes on the market at €35,995 and the K3 at €37,495 - prices include VRT relief and government grants.

The long-range 64 kWh battery pack is paired with a 150 kW (204hp) electric motor making it 84pc more powerful than the outgoing Soul EV.

Electrified models accounted for one in eight Kia cars sold in Europe last year, up from one in 10 the previous year. This new car is expected to add significantly to that tally.

Every exterior panel is new yet the car stays true to its boxy origins. At 4,194mm long, it is 55mm longer than the car it replaces.

With maximum torque of 395Nm available from a standstill, the long range e-Soul can do 0-100km/h in 7.9 seconds.

e-Soul interior.

E-Soul K2 Long Range prices are from €35,995 (VRT band A0 annual road tax: €120), the K3 L/R is from €37,995. Both battery packs can be recharged from 20pc up to 80pc capacity in 42 minutes from a 100 kW DC fast-charger.

On the WLTP urban cycle, energy consumption for the long-range version is 109Wh/km.

A Combined Charging System (CCS) DC fast charger is fitted as standard to both models enabling shorter stops for charging.

Kia Motors Ireland say there is built up demand in the country for a wider range of EV vehicles to choose from and that public reaction for these new cars 'has been tremendous'.

"Already demand for 192 cars has exceeded demand and we are now seeking interest for 2020," commented Kia Motors Ireland Managing Director James Brooks. "We are also happy to offer customers the choice of a Plug In Hybrid variant of Niro and this choice will widened early next year with the arrival of the new xCeed PHEV."

Peugeot reveal new 508 SW pricing and spec

The new Peugeot 508 SW will retail here from €34,110 plus delivery related charges for the Active 1.5 BlueHDI diesel 130bhp 6-speed manual version, writes Trish Whelan.

Order books are now open and deliveries to first customers here in Ireland will begin from 1 July onwards.

The new 508 SW which competes in the D-segment estate sector, has the same sharp front design as the 508 fastback and adds a low-slung, svelte estate bodyline. The brand say it forms the perfect balance between sport elegance and practicality, providing plenty of passenger space and a large, easy to access boot, offering a total load space from 530 litres with the luggage cover closed and up to 1,780 litres thanks to Magic Flat rear seats.

Trims are Active, Allure, GT Line and GT. Two new petrol options and four diesel options, based on the 1.6 PureTech 1.5 BlueHDi and 2.0 BlueHDI engines, are offered.

A 225bhp plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version providing power to the front wheels using a 1.6 PureTech petrol 180bhp engine and a 110bhp electric motor, is due in Ireland at the end of this year. With a ZEV range of 50km (WLTP), the batteries will be located under the Row 2 seats to preserve the roomy boot.

It follows the launch here of the 508 fastback model at the start of this year.

Features include the latest generation of the brand’s i-Cockpit with a configurable 12.3-inch head-up digital instrument panel, either a 10-inch or 8-inch touchscreen dependent on trim, and a compact multi-function steering wheel as standard.

Safety features also come as standard including Emergency Brake Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assistance with edge detection. MirrorLink with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also included as standard in every model.

Active trim gets 167-inch alloys as standard, automatic dual zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors with 1800 colour reversing camera, AGR driver and passenger seats, auto headlights + wipers and electrochrome rear view mirror. 

Allure trim adds Active Blind Spot Detection, Advanced Driver Attention Alert, Peugeot Smartbeam Assist, 3D Navigation with Voice Recognition, twin chrome exhaust, 17-inch alloys and dark tinted rear glass. RRSP prices for the level three Allure trim start from €36,640.

Starting from €39,880, the level four GT Line trim adds Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Positioning Assist, a smartphone charging plate, 18-inch alloys, and Peugeot’s signature 3D rear light cluster. It also comes with the i-Cockpit Amplify which allows customer to change the interior lighting balance as well as the engine note through active speaker technology.

The top of the range level five GT model, from €50,820, features an Active Suspension system, a foot operated smart electric tailgate, electrically adjustable and heated driver and passenger seats with driver seat memory function, driver and passenger seat multi-point massage function and full grain leather upholstery.

Prices shown exclude delivery related charges.

Climate Action Plan: Motor Industry Key Stakeholder

Brian Cooke

Commenting on the Government’s Climate Action plan, SIMI Director General Brian Cooke said the Motor Industry continues to be supportive of the drive towards zero emissions transport.

“The Climate Action Plan is hugely ambitious and it is important that we get greater clarity on the detail of any proposals, both short term and long term,” he said.

“The Industry is a key stakeholder as the provider of vehicles to this project and welcomes the State’s commitment to supporting the implementation of an extensive nationwide charging infrastructure that will support the roll-out of these vehicles.”

He said the plan underlines the big growth in zero-emitting vehicles will happen from 2024 onward, and in that context, it’s important that the State and the Industry start talking now to consider policies that will support change both pre and post 2024.

“Lessons have to be learnt from the past, when dramatic changes to the taxation systems contributed to extensive job losses in the Industry, and any short-term changes must support the new car market and not undermine used car values.”

He added that in the short term, any changes should be gradual, as implementing measures too quickly can undermine used car values which will only make it more difficult for motorists to change to a new lower emitting car, which would ultimately hinder the drive towards zero-emissions.

So far this year 1,949 new electric vehicles have been registered which is a 58.1pc increase on total registrations in 2018 (1,233). 

The SIMI Director General said the incentives are working well as registrations continue to grow. He called on the Government to extend the current incentives that are in place, including the VRT relief, the grant scheme and the BIK benefit, out beyond the current expiry date of 2021. 

“Change can happen with the right measures, but cannot happen overnight, and sensible policies aimed at encouraging motorists to make the right choices can lead to clean affordable and convenient mobility solutions.”

Volkswagen's 192 offers

Volkswagen Ireland’s 192 campaign includes Technology Upgrades across the range, 0pc APR PCP Finance on many models, Purchase Contributions of up to €2,500 and discounts on R-Line equipment packs, writes Trish Whelan.

The addition recently of the new T-Cross means there is now a choice of five SUVs in the range, from the T-Cross to the T-Roc, Tiguan, Tiguan Allspace and the Touareg. 

Highlights of the Technology Upgrades include, on the Golf Highline model, Discover Media Sat Nav, High Beam Light Assist, and a rear-view camera (with a value of €1,308) are available now for €699. The Golf Highline is also offered with PCP finance from 0pc APR allowing a monthly repayment of €299 per month. An R-Line Exterior Pack is available from €309 per month with 0pc APR PCP finance. This includes a 3-year Service Plan. There’s also a €1,500 Purchase Contribution on TDI models, with €1,000 on petrol models. 

The Polo Trendline model comes with the option of a Technology Upgrade which includes 15-inch alloys, front fog lamps, multi-function steering wheel and floor mats which would cost €1,140 if priced individually but with the 192 offer, cost €599. 

Other offers are on T-Roc, Tiguan Highline, Tiguan Allspace, available with seven seats; and the Passat Highline. There are similar offers for the up!, Arteon, Touran, Sharan and Touareg models with savings of up to €4,530 with these Technology Upgrades as well as the Purchase Contributions of up to €2,500 and 0pc PCP Finance on many models. 

Peugeot 192 Drivetime now on nationwide

Peugeot’s 192 Drivetime event is now underway at all the brand’s dealerships nationwide, writes Trish Whelan.

The 192 offers are available for a limited time only this summer.

Customers who register their new 192 Peugeot passenger car or light commercial vehicle before 31 July can avail of finance from 3.9pc plus either scrappage up to €4,000 or a deposit contribution of up to €750 on younger trade ins. A five-year extended warranty is offered across the Peugeot car range.

Des Cannon, Managing Director at Gowan Distributors Limited who import Peugeot cars to Ireland, commented that their car range recorded the biggest volume increase in the market in 2018 and has outperformed the car and van market June year to date. “Consumer demand for the multi award-winning Peugeot SUV range continues, with the 2008, 3008 and 5008 SUVs dominating our sales table year to date and our dealers are recording strong forward orders for 192 for these star sellers, alongside our new Rifter and 508 fastback models.”

He added that the Peugeot van range performance remains consistently strong in the Irish market taking fourth place in the overall sales league, with a 7.8pc market share year to date in June, with firm interest in the Partner (International Van of the Year 2019), the Expert, a former Irish Van of the Year winners, and the load-lugging Boxer line-up.

“Our 192 offers are designed to drive down the cost of motoring thanks to our low-cost finance, deposit contributions or scrappage offers.”

Motorsport Ireland Weekend Roundup

The cars driven by two Irish drivers contesting the world’s most famous motor race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, each completed more than 4500 kilometres between the start on Saturday afternoon and yesterday’s finish, writes Richard Burke.

Corkman Matt Griffin finished eighth in class at the wheel of the Clearwater Racing Ferrari 488 GTE, while current Motorsport Ireland Young Racing Driver of the Year Charlie Eastwood from Belfast shared the TF Sport Aston Martin Vantage to twelfth place.

At home, Anthony Culleton from Laois was the outright winner of the Midland Autocross at Scramogue, Co Roscommon, the third round of the Five Star Catering National Championship, with Matt Shinnors and Christopher Snow Jnr winning the main saloon classes.

Audi 192 Sales Event

Audi e-tron

The Audi 192 Sales Event is currently taking place across 11 authorised Audi dealerships nationwide with offers available on vehicles registered before 31 August, writes Trish Whelan.

The event offers APR rates from 2.9pc.

These exclusive offers also include special edition Audi service plans making it more affordable than ever to drive an Audi with plans available from €15.99 per month as well as a complementary €250 Audi genuine accessories offer.

Audi Q5 - With an APR of 2.9pc, the Audi Q5 model is available in four powerful, efficient TDI variants. This sporty SUV has a sculpturally flared singleframe grille with a solid frame which dominates its aerodynamically flat front end. Space is not compromised by design. Features include Audi’s virtual cockpit included in the Technology Pack. The fully digital instrument cluster, with various display options, projects information directly in front of the driver via a large high-resolution monitor with richly detailed graphics.

Audi A6 - As part of the Audi 192 sales event, the A6 has an APR rate of 3.9pc. It boasts many of the refinements and innovations in the latest Audi A8, the brand’s luxury flagship model. The A6 contains upgrades from advanced mild hybrid drivetrains. The model also contains a new all-digital MMI touch response interface.

As part of its 192 sales event, Audi is offering a host of service packages to suit individual customer needs. Monthly plans start from €15.99 per month and cover all services and schedule maintenance which includes pollen filters, air filter and brake fluid replacement with complementary €250 Audi genuine accessories vouchers on offer. (Plans range from 3 years 45,000km to 5 years 120,000km).

Throughout the Audi 192 sales event, motorists are invited into Audi dealerships to experience the brand’s first all-electric SUV - the Audi e-tron. Audi dealerships will be showcasing the e-tron, providing information on how drivers can invest in an electric vehicle, and also holding demonstrations to bring drivers up to speed with all things e-tron including charging options. 

Thorsten Godulla, Managing Director, Audi Ireland says there has never been such a wide choice of Audi cars available and these offers ‘bring a new level of affordability to ensure drivers can get the Audi they deserve’. He added that the e-tron ‘has received great feedback as it offers real-world efficient driving solutions together with technology and design features that define Audi as a leading automotive brand’.

MyClinic.ie: Ireland's first online travel vaccination service

An innovative new travel health service has been launched by MyClinic.ie, meaning you can now have your travel vaccinations given at participating pharmacies nationwide, writes Trish Whelan.

After completing MyClinic’s online travel health consultation, priced at €30, a GP will advise you of any vaccinations or anti-malaria tablets you should consider and issues your prescription.

As well as advice from the GP, you also receive a personalised travel health pack by email, containing the most up-to-date information to help you stay healthy on your trip.

Once you complete the consultation you can book an appointment online at your nearest participating pharmacy to pay for your vaccinations and have them given by a specially trained pharmacist. 

The service is designed to be most convenient and cost-effective way for travellers to access travel health consultations. Commenting on the launch, Dr Daniel Clear, founder of MyClinic, said: “We are very excited to be providing the first travel health service of its kind in Ireland.  

“With Irish people travelling more than ever, and infectious diseases on the rise, we want to remove the barriers to accessing appropriate advice and protection so that people can stay healthy when abroad.”

MyClinic launched in 2017 as the first platform in Europe to bring together the range of primary healthcare services online.

Registration to MyClinic is free and provides users with a personal health record and interactive dashboard where they can access video consultations with healthcare professionals, order repeat prescriptions, and avail of the latest in smart home blood testing and STI screening. 

Repeat prescriptions offered cover a range of common conditions,  including acne, cystitis, thrush, male sexual health problems and various forms of contraception.  Prescriptions are sent by post within 24 hours, or directly to a pharmacy for same-day collection,  if needed urgently.  

MyClinic  operates  a  seven-day  service, with a repeat prescription costing €20 and a video consultation with a GP costing €25, a significant saving on the  €60 typically faced in a GP surgery.

Review: Honda CR-V by Trish Whelan

Honda's CR-V has become the world’s best-selling SUV since it was first introduced in 1995, writes Trish Whelan. With the third generation Honda has focused on petrol engines and there is no diesel alternative. There are 2WD and 4WD versions, and the new car is offered for the first time with a hybrid petrol electric powertrain.

The new CR-V is higher and wider while keeping the same length. An increased wheelbase allows a larger and more comfortable cabin and the option of seven seats.

A new grille echoes that in the Civic. A-pillars have been moved forward and reduced. The bonnet length has also been shortened and overall there's better front quarter visibility especially when approaching a roundabout. Full marks to Honda for this.

New BMW X1 here in July

With bold new styling, the new BMW X1 which will arrive in Ireland next month (July), falls in line with the latest X family design philosophy, writes Trish Whelan.

The current range of three and four-cylinder Twin-Power Turbo engines will shortly be joined by a new low emission plug-in hybrid X1.

Two petrol and two diesel engines feature. The petrol range starts with the e140hp 1.5 sDrive 18i with peak torque of 220Nm. It will do from zero to 100km/h in 9.7 secs. It comes with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual clutch auto; C02 emissions are 125g/km and combined fuel consumption 37.7 (56.5mpg).

The more powerful 2.0 X1 sDrive 20i with 192hp and 280Nm of torque can be specified with a seven-speed Sport dual-clutch automatic (0-100km/h in 7.7 secs; 129g/km C02 emissions and combined fuel consumption of 47.9 (52.3mpg) 0-100km/h in 7.4 seconds and C02 is 143g/km; 38.7 (51.4mpg).

The diesel range utilises a 2.0-litre power-plant and both the sDrive and the all-wheel drive xDrive18d models deliver 150hp and a peak torque of 350Nm. The benchmark zero to 62mph sprint is achieved in 9.3-9.4s while emitting 113-1145g/km of CO2. The X1 sDrive18d is offered with a six-speed manual or an optional eight-speed Sport automatic transmission. Combined fuel consumption is 36.7-53.3 mpg for the sDrive and 36.7-55.4mpg for the xDrive. 

The 190hp all-wheel-drive xDrive 20d is at the top of the X1 range delivering a maximum torque of 400Nm while emitting just 123g/km of CO2 with a combined fuel consumption of 39.8-55.4mpg. Like the 18dxDrive it uses the eight-speed Sport automatic transmission that enables it to accelerate from zero to 100kph in 7.8s and go on to a top speed of 219kph 

With OTR prices of from €38,975-€47,395, Irish customers can now place orders for the new X1 featuring increased levels of standard equipment and a simplified option structure.

The X1 has proved to be a huge success for the German car maker who say this latest version builds on that with bold styling, exceptional handling and the introduction of an all-new plug-in hybrid model.

In 2018, not only the highest-selling BMW X model worldwide, it also led the way in its segment as a whole over the same time period.

Features include BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive, extensive infotainment options and an updated range of BMW ConnectedDrive Services.

Four model variants are: SE, Sport, xLine and M Sport, each with its own unique looks and equipment to match. Newly available for the X1 are the exterior colour shades Jucaro Metallic. Exclusively for xLine and M Sport models are the new Misano Blue metallic and BMW Individual Storm Bay metallic.

Next year, the petrol and diesel models will be joined for the first time by the xDrive25e plug-in hybrid model.

BMW X1 

Jackie Tyrrell is new Renault Brand Ambassador

Jackie Tyrrell and Liz O'Gorman, Marketing Manager, Renault Ireland.

Kilkenny hurling legend Jackie Tyrrell has been announced as Renault Ireland’s newest brand ambassador, writes Trish Whelan.

Over a 14-year career with his county, Jackie won no fewer than nine All Irelands, four All Stars, 11 Leinster titles, and six National League titles.

The James Stephens man also boasts three Senior County Championships, two Leinster Club Championships and a Club All Ireland title over 19 years playing with the club.

When not working in Glanbia, Jackie is a pundit on RTE’s The Sunday Game and a sports columnist for The Irish Times.

He will join Renault’s strong line-up of sporting ambassadors including Alan Brogan, Dessie Dolan, Marc O Se, Mick Galwey, Anthony Daly and Jason Sherlock.

Jackie is now on the road in a sleek and brand-new Renault KADJAR.

Patrick Magee, Country Operations Director, Renault Ireland said: “We are thrilled to have Jackie on board as our newest Renault Brand Ambassador. We wish him safe and happy driving in his new Renault KADJAR.”

Make Dun Laoghaire your Port of Call in July

Ireland’s biggest sailing event returns this Summer, with the 2019 Volvo Dun Laoghaire Regatta. 

The biennial four-day series will take place from Thursday 11 to Sunday 14 July 2019. A festival of fun, sun and sailing awaits those in attendance at the waterfront and Dun Laoghaire town, as the four local waterfront yacht clubs will come together for this sailing extravaganza; Dun Laoghaire Motor Yacht Club, National Yacht Club, Royal Irish Yacht Club and Royal St. George Yacht Club.

Some 2,500 sailors and 500 boats across 34 classes will compete in the eight instalment of the four day series on seven race courses will be specially laid out on Dublin Bay. The standard of sailing on show is bound to entertain and excite the crowds, due to its international flavour. The event attracts Olympic, international and national talent, many of whom are champions, with yachts competing from Hong Kong, England, Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man, and all four provinces of Ireland.

On land, there will also be plenty of entertainment around the waterfront to ensure those in attendance stay afloat! This year, face painting and a ‘selfie wall’ will ensure you capture your perfect picture from the day. Volvo and Spirit Motor Group will also be displaying their latest range of cars at The People’s Park, the East Pier and the Harbour Plaza.

There will be market food to sample from the People’s Park Market on Sunday 14 July. 

So, whether you’re looking for a family day out or to simply savour the festival atmosphere, Dun Laoghaire will be the perfect location for you.