Friday, April 29, 2005
Volkswagen Fox
BEFORE we start, let’s clear up this name issue. Volkswagen’s new city car is called the Fox, which replaces the Lupo and sits below the Polo but isn’t the same car as the former Polo Fox. Is that clear? Good.
The reason I mention this is because, having driven the Fox, the differences between the new entry-level Volkswagen and its established Polo supermini aren’t immediately clear. Car rental uk
Of course, the two cars look different (and from June the Polo will look even more so when it adopts the company’s new front-end lights from the Passat) but, in terms of size, space and performance, there doesn’t seem to be that much between them – except price.
By opting to have the car built in Brazil Volkswagen is able to offer the Fox at a very low price.
When it goes on sale in the UK next February, it is expected to cost less than the German-built Lupo it replaces. So prices could well be around the £7,000 mark for the entry-level 1.2 version (Polo prices currently begin at £9,125). Car rental uk
This engine, a three-cylinder unit with 55bhp, is expected to be the big seller and there will also be the choice of a 1.4-litre 75bhp engine in either petrol or 70bhp Euro IV-complaint diesel guise. The existing Lupo GTi, popular with younger drivers and not too pricey on insurance, will remain in the range for the time being.
But it’s in terms of size where the two models really overlap. The new Polo is 3.9m long while the Fox is just 88mm shorter, but in terms of width and height the Fox is larger. What this means is that the Fox has more interior space. Car rental uk
I’m somewhere between Peter Kay and Johnny Vegas in build, but during my test drive there was bags of space inside for me and my six-foot-plus co-driver. Our shoulders never touched and our heads were well away from brushing the headlining which, incidentally, is made from recycled fibres from a pineapple plant.
There’s also a neat sliding rear bench seat which can either give maximum rear passenger leg room or can be slid forwards to create a much bigger boot space. Set at its furthest position back, the Fox can accommodate a six-foot passenger in the rear behind a six-foot driver.
The amount of interior space on the Fox really is very impressive, which is the result of the car being designed as a five-door family car for South America and then being adapted as a three-door city car for Europe.
And since it went on sale in Brazil early last year, the Fox has been a huge success, selling around 300,000 units.
Volkswagen hasn’t set sales expectations for the Fox yet, primarily due to the fact that the domestic launch is so far away and specification and pricing isn’t certain either. Car rental uk
The wait is due to limited production of right-hand drive cars at the South American factory.
But what is certain is that the Fox will sell in much bigger numbers, both to fleet and retail customers, than the car it replaces. Last year, Volkswagen sold 2,549 Lupos in the UK and around 40,000 Polos. While the Fox won’t reach the levels of the Polo, expect to see many more Foxes on the road than Lupos.
In fleet terms, there are clear areas where it will do well. Volkswagen is already eyeing bodyshop courtesy car fleets and daily rental firms as key outlets, while companies wanting an affordable pool car for urban driving should all be interested.
Behind the wheelAS you’d expect from a car designed for use in the city, the Fox is an absolute doddle to drive – nicely light steering and gearchange, great visibility all round and short overhangs to make parking a cinch.
But the Fox is also pretty competent on the open road. I drove the entry-level 1.2-litre model, which is expected to take the lion’s share of sales, and found it comfortable and refined at motorway speeds. At 70mph the engine is turning over at about 4,000rpm but there’s no irritating buzz from under the bonnet and wind noise is well suppressed.
Around town the steering is nicely weighted and it offers a tight turning cycle – perfect for city work. And the gearbox works so well that you’d have to be the worst type of ham-fisted numbskull to miss a gear.
Inside, it’s all familiar Volkswagen fare, which means nice tactile plastics on the steering wheel and indicator stalks. The quality feel continues to the centre console.
The only disappointment is the quality of the plastics just below eye level, such as on the glovebox lid and door panels, which stand out in the cabin against the other trim.
But this car is built to a price, and it’s a price which will be below the Lupo it replaces. As an affordable city runabout, the Fox will take some beating.
The reason I mention this is because, having driven the Fox, the differences between the new entry-level Volkswagen and its established Polo supermini aren’t immediately clear. Car rental uk
Of course, the two cars look different (and from June the Polo will look even more so when it adopts the company’s new front-end lights from the Passat) but, in terms of size, space and performance, there doesn’t seem to be that much between them – except price.
By opting to have the car built in Brazil Volkswagen is able to offer the Fox at a very low price.
When it goes on sale in the UK next February, it is expected to cost less than the German-built Lupo it replaces. So prices could well be around the £7,000 mark for the entry-level 1.2 version (Polo prices currently begin at £9,125). Car rental uk
This engine, a three-cylinder unit with 55bhp, is expected to be the big seller and there will also be the choice of a 1.4-litre 75bhp engine in either petrol or 70bhp Euro IV-complaint diesel guise. The existing Lupo GTi, popular with younger drivers and not too pricey on insurance, will remain in the range for the time being.
But it’s in terms of size where the two models really overlap. The new Polo is 3.9m long while the Fox is just 88mm shorter, but in terms of width and height the Fox is larger. What this means is that the Fox has more interior space. Car rental uk
I’m somewhere between Peter Kay and Johnny Vegas in build, but during my test drive there was bags of space inside for me and my six-foot-plus co-driver. Our shoulders never touched and our heads were well away from brushing the headlining which, incidentally, is made from recycled fibres from a pineapple plant.
There’s also a neat sliding rear bench seat which can either give maximum rear passenger leg room or can be slid forwards to create a much bigger boot space. Set at its furthest position back, the Fox can accommodate a six-foot passenger in the rear behind a six-foot driver.
The amount of interior space on the Fox really is very impressive, which is the result of the car being designed as a five-door family car for South America and then being adapted as a three-door city car for Europe.
And since it went on sale in Brazil early last year, the Fox has been a huge success, selling around 300,000 units.
Volkswagen hasn’t set sales expectations for the Fox yet, primarily due to the fact that the domestic launch is so far away and specification and pricing isn’t certain either. Car rental uk
The wait is due to limited production of right-hand drive cars at the South American factory.
But what is certain is that the Fox will sell in much bigger numbers, both to fleet and retail customers, than the car it replaces. Last year, Volkswagen sold 2,549 Lupos in the UK and around 40,000 Polos. While the Fox won’t reach the levels of the Polo, expect to see many more Foxes on the road than Lupos.
In fleet terms, there are clear areas where it will do well. Volkswagen is already eyeing bodyshop courtesy car fleets and daily rental firms as key outlets, while companies wanting an affordable pool car for urban driving should all be interested.
Behind the wheelAS you’d expect from a car designed for use in the city, the Fox is an absolute doddle to drive – nicely light steering and gearchange, great visibility all round and short overhangs to make parking a cinch.
But the Fox is also pretty competent on the open road. I drove the entry-level 1.2-litre model, which is expected to take the lion’s share of sales, and found it comfortable and refined at motorway speeds. At 70mph the engine is turning over at about 4,000rpm but there’s no irritating buzz from under the bonnet and wind noise is well suppressed.
Around town the steering is nicely weighted and it offers a tight turning cycle – perfect for city work. And the gearbox works so well that you’d have to be the worst type of ham-fisted numbskull to miss a gear.
Inside, it’s all familiar Volkswagen fare, which means nice tactile plastics on the steering wheel and indicator stalks. The quality feel continues to the centre console.
The only disappointment is the quality of the plastics just below eye level, such as on the glovebox lid and door panels, which stand out in the cabin against the other trim.
But this car is built to a price, and it’s a price which will be below the Lupo it replaces. As an affordable city runabout, the Fox will take some beating.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Vauxhall Vectra Estate SRi 1.9 CDTi
FINALLY, we can bring you a road test on our long-term Vectra 1.9 CDTi without the ongoing saga of the ‘widget’.
The ‘widget’ – or, in technical terms, ‘lug holder’ – has finally been fully restored after more than four months of waiting. Car rental uk.
Back in November, the car had the plastic casing on the rear seatback locking mechanism repaired but the lug holder, which secures the rear seatback in place, was put on order. The part finally turned up in March and is now firmly in place after a quick visit to our local dealer. Although a missing lug holder doesn’t affect the performance of the car, four months is quite a wait for a relatively insignificant part. Car rental uk.
The Vectra has been a firm favourite among the team – its practical load-bearing capabilities mean it is often borrowed to ship bulky items such as bikes, furniture and plants across the country.
Although it is one of the largest estates in its class, our model doesn’t come with standard parking sensors. I class myself as quite competent at parking, even when backing into tight spots, but sometimes the Vectra’s sheer rear-end bulk has me beaten. Car rental uk.
Even after two months of driving it, I occasionally have to get out of the car when reversing to see how close the wall/hedge/car is behind me. Just £400 will add this option and it’s well worth the money.
We have, however, got the optional £850 adaptive front headlights, and they’re great.
When the car turns a corner, the headlights swivel round too. I’ve found this useful when turning into my drive at night – and it gives next door’s cat a chance to escape. Car rental uk.
The electronic opening tailgate is another plus point and one I think should be standard on all vehicles. Approaching the car with bags of shopping or some of the numerous bulky items the Vectra can carry, a quick push on the key fob opens the boot lid gracefully before you’ve even reached it.
Another thing I love about the Vectra is its massive fuel tank. It holds 61 litres and means I only have to fill up once a fortnight. Even though I’m not reaching Vauxhall’s claimed combined economy figure of 46.3mpg, I’m averaging a decent 41.1mpg.
The ‘widget’ – or, in technical terms, ‘lug holder’ – has finally been fully restored after more than four months of waiting. Car rental uk.
Back in November, the car had the plastic casing on the rear seatback locking mechanism repaired but the lug holder, which secures the rear seatback in place, was put on order. The part finally turned up in March and is now firmly in place after a quick visit to our local dealer. Although a missing lug holder doesn’t affect the performance of the car, four months is quite a wait for a relatively insignificant part. Car rental uk.
The Vectra has been a firm favourite among the team – its practical load-bearing capabilities mean it is often borrowed to ship bulky items such as bikes, furniture and plants across the country.
Although it is one of the largest estates in its class, our model doesn’t come with standard parking sensors. I class myself as quite competent at parking, even when backing into tight spots, but sometimes the Vectra’s sheer rear-end bulk has me beaten. Car rental uk.
Even after two months of driving it, I occasionally have to get out of the car when reversing to see how close the wall/hedge/car is behind me. Just £400 will add this option and it’s well worth the money.
We have, however, got the optional £850 adaptive front headlights, and they’re great.
When the car turns a corner, the headlights swivel round too. I’ve found this useful when turning into my drive at night – and it gives next door’s cat a chance to escape. Car rental uk.
The electronic opening tailgate is another plus point and one I think should be standard on all vehicles. Approaching the car with bags of shopping or some of the numerous bulky items the Vectra can carry, a quick push on the key fob opens the boot lid gracefully before you’ve even reached it.
Another thing I love about the Vectra is its massive fuel tank. It holds 61 litres and means I only have to fill up once a fortnight. Even though I’m not reaching Vauxhall’s claimed combined economy figure of 46.3mpg, I’m averaging a decent 41.1mpg.
Monday, April 18, 2005
Mercedes-Benz M Class
A NEW month, a new Mercedes. Seems you can’t move for new Mercedes-Benz models in 2005. This time, it’s the new ML off-roader, battle-ready to take on the new Land Rover Discovery, the versatile Volvo XC90 and the ageing but still sharp BMW X5. Which means there’s going to be quite a school-run showdown come September when the ML range arrives.
The M-class’s biggest change is the switch from a ladder frame to a monocoque chassis – a move prompted by drivers less concerned with off-road prowess and more with on-road comfort and dynamics.
The chassis sits on a new, more road-friendly suspension layout, with double wishbones at the front and a complex four-link set-up out back.
Buyers will have a choice of three engines. The entry-level petrol, the 272bhp 3.5-litre V6, is topped by the flagship 306bhp 5.0-litre V8. The 224bhp 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel will be followed in 2006 by a detuned 190bhp version of the same engine. Car rental uk.
Naturally, all powerplants are Euro IV compliant, with particulate filters an option on the diesels. The ML line-up is fitted with Mercedes-Benz advanced 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission, which permanently splits torque equally between front and rear axle. UK drivers will also have the choice of standard steel or optional air-sprung suspension.
Despite growing in all directions – 150mm longer (now 4,780mm) 71mm wider (now 1,911mm) and 5mm lower (now 1,815mm with roof rails) – the big Mercedes-Benz looks far more aggressive and athletic. This is helped by its long 2,915mm wheelbase, a massive 95mm increase, and its rakish windscreen angle. Car rental uk.
And yet model for model, the new ML is 50kg lighter than the outgoing range, because of the switch to car-like monocoque construction.
For a striking and confident-looking off-roader, the new M-class certainly looks the part. Its toothy grille, liberal touches of chrome and substantial cladding may not appeal to everyone’s taste, but there’s no denying its powerful and confident presence.
And it has a very American look to it – no surprise given it will be built by Americans at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama – and America will be its biggest market. Car rental uk.
After a long hiatus, it appears that Mercedes-Benz build quality is back. The ML’s button-laden cabin feels bank-vault solid, and there’s an air of substance to all the driver touch-points. Only a few minor controls on the centre console that are made of hard shiny plastic and the overly enthusiastic sprinkling of chrome spoil the internal ambience. It’s spacious too.
Moving the gear lever from the central tunnel to the steering column has freed up more space. Carrying a pair of six-footers in the back is a cinch, but the third rear passenger won’t be as comfortable, perched over the transmission tunnel. The flat-floored boot is huge and can be further extended by flipping the rear seats forward.
The biggest shortcoming for Mercedes-Benz is that, unlike the new Discovery, there is no seven-seat option on offer, something likely to put off a number of family-oriented user choosers. Car rental uk.
But Stuttgart is hoping its new crossover six-seater R-class that arrives later this year will offer greater versatility, and a long-wheelbase ML is also expected.
The M-class will come filled to the brim with active and passive safety features. Expect at least 10 airbags, the usual sophisticated electronic parking, skid and stability controls, as well as the option of the Pre-Safe system first seen in the S-class. This uses ABS and ESP sensors to determine if the car is going to crash and pulls the seatbelts taut, the sunroof is closed and the electric seats are optimally positioned to benefit from the airbag protection. Active Neck-Pro head restraints are also an optional extra.
The new M-class is also going to be expensive. Despite its enhanced luxury and safety levels, prices are expected to climb by at least 10%, which means access to the ML club will cost at least £35,000. Steep. And that’s before you start ticking the long list of optional extras.
The M-class’s biggest change is the switch from a ladder frame to a monocoque chassis – a move prompted by drivers less concerned with off-road prowess and more with on-road comfort and dynamics.
The chassis sits on a new, more road-friendly suspension layout, with double wishbones at the front and a complex four-link set-up out back.
Buyers will have a choice of three engines. The entry-level petrol, the 272bhp 3.5-litre V6, is topped by the flagship 306bhp 5.0-litre V8. The 224bhp 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel will be followed in 2006 by a detuned 190bhp version of the same engine. Car rental uk.
Naturally, all powerplants are Euro IV compliant, with particulate filters an option on the diesels. The ML line-up is fitted with Mercedes-Benz advanced 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission, which permanently splits torque equally between front and rear axle. UK drivers will also have the choice of standard steel or optional air-sprung suspension.
Despite growing in all directions – 150mm longer (now 4,780mm) 71mm wider (now 1,911mm) and 5mm lower (now 1,815mm with roof rails) – the big Mercedes-Benz looks far more aggressive and athletic. This is helped by its long 2,915mm wheelbase, a massive 95mm increase, and its rakish windscreen angle. Car rental uk.
And yet model for model, the new ML is 50kg lighter than the outgoing range, because of the switch to car-like monocoque construction.
For a striking and confident-looking off-roader, the new M-class certainly looks the part. Its toothy grille, liberal touches of chrome and substantial cladding may not appeal to everyone’s taste, but there’s no denying its powerful and confident presence.
And it has a very American look to it – no surprise given it will be built by Americans at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama – and America will be its biggest market. Car rental uk.
After a long hiatus, it appears that Mercedes-Benz build quality is back. The ML’s button-laden cabin feels bank-vault solid, and there’s an air of substance to all the driver touch-points. Only a few minor controls on the centre console that are made of hard shiny plastic and the overly enthusiastic sprinkling of chrome spoil the internal ambience. It’s spacious too.
Moving the gear lever from the central tunnel to the steering column has freed up more space. Carrying a pair of six-footers in the back is a cinch, but the third rear passenger won’t be as comfortable, perched over the transmission tunnel. The flat-floored boot is huge and can be further extended by flipping the rear seats forward.
The biggest shortcoming for Mercedes-Benz is that, unlike the new Discovery, there is no seven-seat option on offer, something likely to put off a number of family-oriented user choosers. Car rental uk.
But Stuttgart is hoping its new crossover six-seater R-class that arrives later this year will offer greater versatility, and a long-wheelbase ML is also expected.
The M-class will come filled to the brim with active and passive safety features. Expect at least 10 airbags, the usual sophisticated electronic parking, skid and stability controls, as well as the option of the Pre-Safe system first seen in the S-class. This uses ABS and ESP sensors to determine if the car is going to crash and pulls the seatbelts taut, the sunroof is closed and the electric seats are optimally positioned to benefit from the airbag protection. Active Neck-Pro head restraints are also an optional extra.
The new M-class is also going to be expensive. Despite its enhanced luxury and safety levels, prices are expected to climb by at least 10%, which means access to the ML club will cost at least £35,000. Steep. And that’s before you start ticking the long list of optional extras.
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Vauxhall Astra Estate 1.9 CDTi 150
THERE’S never a good time to be a sales rep, what with roadworks, congestion charging and pressure to make appointments. In fact, it’s probably one of the most thankless jobs around – spending the majority of your working life in a car ploughing up and down the nation’s road network.
Which is why the latest crop of lower-medium estate cars – the real bread and butter workhorses of any fleet – will be so welcome to your high- mileage drivers. Car rental uk.
Why? Because they’re so good and so much better than the models they replace.
Take Vauxhall’s latest Astra estate. It’s got great styling, a well-designed interior and it’s very good to drive. It’s a quantum leap from its predecessor, which is why the new model was recently named lower-medium car of the year at the Fleet News Awards. Car rental uk.
And as well as looking and driving so much better than before, the Astra feels different too. Vauxhall has invested a lot of time and money in improving quality and it is evident from the moment you grip the chunky door handle, to the thud of the door when it closes. Then there’s the steering wheel and dashboard, again both reassuringly chunky in feel. There are also nicely bolstered seats and a clear dash with aluminium- effect centre console.
There has been a similar level of improvement in the driving experience.
The Design model rides and handles better than any of the sporty models from the previous Astra generation. The front end is well planted to the road and the steering is very direct – just because cars like this are designed for motorways doesn’t mean they can’t be fun on the twisty roads. Car rental uk.
Our test car was fitted with the most powerful CDTi common rail diesel engine offered – a 1.9-litre unit with 148bhp. It has stacks of mid-range power which makes motorway driving incredibly easy.
If you want to accelerate into the fast lane, there’s no need to change down a gear or two – just plant your foot, give the turbo a moment to spool up and you’ll soon be up with the fast lane pace. And after having driven the Astra back-to-back with the Ford Focus, the Vauxhall is a better drive – it’s got a better gearbox and there’s less engine noise intruding into the cabin. It’s effortless, relaxed and comfortable – what more could you want? Car rental uk.
Well, as this car is designed to be a workhorse, how about a huge boot to carry samples? The Astra’s luggage compartment has been designed with a very low loading sill, making getting heavy items in less of a chore. It’s also slightly longer and has more carrying capacity than the Focus.
In fact, this new Astra does everything very well, so it’s disappointing to see it not perform as well in our running costs analysis (see panel right). The problem is that the CDTi 150 engine is only available in top-spec Design and SRi trim levels, meaning a high front-end price. Lower-spec, and cheaper, versions are available with the 128bhp engine, but they would be a better bet for fleets.
Which is why the latest crop of lower-medium estate cars – the real bread and butter workhorses of any fleet – will be so welcome to your high- mileage drivers. Car rental uk.
Why? Because they’re so good and so much better than the models they replace.
Take Vauxhall’s latest Astra estate. It’s got great styling, a well-designed interior and it’s very good to drive. It’s a quantum leap from its predecessor, which is why the new model was recently named lower-medium car of the year at the Fleet News Awards. Car rental uk.
And as well as looking and driving so much better than before, the Astra feels different too. Vauxhall has invested a lot of time and money in improving quality and it is evident from the moment you grip the chunky door handle, to the thud of the door when it closes. Then there’s the steering wheel and dashboard, again both reassuringly chunky in feel. There are also nicely bolstered seats and a clear dash with aluminium- effect centre console.
There has been a similar level of improvement in the driving experience.
The Design model rides and handles better than any of the sporty models from the previous Astra generation. The front end is well planted to the road and the steering is very direct – just because cars like this are designed for motorways doesn’t mean they can’t be fun on the twisty roads. Car rental uk.
Our test car was fitted with the most powerful CDTi common rail diesel engine offered – a 1.9-litre unit with 148bhp. It has stacks of mid-range power which makes motorway driving incredibly easy.
If you want to accelerate into the fast lane, there’s no need to change down a gear or two – just plant your foot, give the turbo a moment to spool up and you’ll soon be up with the fast lane pace. And after having driven the Astra back-to-back with the Ford Focus, the Vauxhall is a better drive – it’s got a better gearbox and there’s less engine noise intruding into the cabin. It’s effortless, relaxed and comfortable – what more could you want? Car rental uk.
Well, as this car is designed to be a workhorse, how about a huge boot to carry samples? The Astra’s luggage compartment has been designed with a very low loading sill, making getting heavy items in less of a chore. It’s also slightly longer and has more carrying capacity than the Focus.
In fact, this new Astra does everything very well, so it’s disappointing to see it not perform as well in our running costs analysis (see panel right). The problem is that the CDTi 150 engine is only available in top-spec Design and SRi trim levels, meaning a high front-end price. Lower-spec, and cheaper, versions are available with the 128bhp engine, but they would be a better bet for fleets.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Volkswagen Passat
VOLKSWAGEN is planning to put a sub-£15,000 price sticker on the new Passat range it will launch in summer.
In entry-level trim, the German company’s D-sector contender will be pitched to cost just 1.3% more than models from volume manufacturers, Fleet NewsNet can reveal.
Finishing touches are now being put on the marketing strategy that will allow British customers to pay substantially less for the lead-in 1.6-litre petrol S version than the £15,600 being asked for the car in domestic market showrooms. Car rental uk.
And executives at Volkswagen UK are aiming to step up the pressure on Ford, Vauxhall and Peugeot by pricing the version of the Passat they expect to be most popular – the 2.0-litre TDI SE 140 – only 1% higher than competitor models when specification levels are taken into account.
Volkswagen UK director Paul Willis said: ‘We are still working on the details, but I can tell you that our SE cars will include six-speed transmission, electronic handbrake, cruise control and 16-inch alloy wheels. This is specification packaging that puts us way ahead of our volume competitors.’
Speaking in Barcelona at the company’s second media launch of its next-generation model, Willis claimed that early indications from UK contract hire and leasing companies suggested residual values were set to be as much as 10 points higher than the previous Passat. Car rental uk.
He said: ‘This is good news. It puts us within spitting distance of Audi and BMW and I’m very pleased with the way things are shaping up.
‘To be honest, I was worried about the prospects for this car because the previous version had such a huge impact on the image of the brand. That resulted in very high demand and a dramatic improvement in our residuals.
‘I wondered if it would be possible to follow that level of achievement, but it looks like Volkswagen has moved the game on again. It’s most satisfying.’
Willis claims the new car’s pricing structure and strong residuals are paramount to his plans for the development of Volkswagen UK over the longer term. Car rental uk.
He said: ‘Believe me, we understand the supply and demand equilibrium.
‘While we don’t have ambitions for any large growth in volume, we do aim to retain our leadership of the saloon sub-sector in the UK. That is not the case in the rest of Europe, but the factory shares our goals. And while we are both working to increase our share of the UK market, we are dedicated to raising the quality of our business.
‘You only have to look at what goes on with competitor brands to see that anyone can sell cars at a discount, but achieving the right balance between volume and quality of share is more difficult. Our strategy is to undersell our share in the rental and other sub-sectors of the fleet market that can adversely affect residuals.
‘This is a declining sector, of course, and some of our rivals are pricing their products at less than the Golf, which is in the segment below the Passat. Clearly, that is a ridiculous situation – they’re trying to buy business and it’s small wonder you read about them being unprofitable.
‘We are working hard to position ourselves away from all that. The brands that achieve D-sector growth in future will be those that have value rather than forced discounts. The new Passat will be a strong user-chooser car – it has a beautifully sculptured appearance that excites me. I think it looks like a real winner.’ Car rental uk.
As already reported by Fleet NewsNet, standard safety equipment in the Passat will include electronic stability control, driver, front passenger, front side and curtain airbags, fast-response rear LED lights, active front headrests and Isofix child seat mountings. Keyless entry and an electronic parking brake are also standard-fit and a Bluetooth telephone unit, a 600 watt hi-fi system and dual-zone Climatronic air conditioning are among optional items, along with a 230-volt mains outlet in the rear compartment to power laptop or computer games equipment.
Behind the wheel
WITH longer, wider and taller bodywork to haul around, it comes as no surprise to find that the lowest-rung Passat engine needs to be worked fairly hard to keep up a brisk pace on fast cross-country routes.
How it will cope with lugging four or five occupants – and with its bigger boot crammed full of luggage – remains to be seen, but to be fair, the new 1.6-litre FSI motor performed with gusto on our short test drive near Barcelona.
Now mounted transversely to free up additional body space, the 113bhp unit becomes vociferous at high revs but does settle to a more relaxed gait in sixth gear on the open road.
Irrespective of speed or territory, progress in the 2.0-litre FSI version proves to be noticeably easier, however. In 147bhp guise, the Passat comes closer to achieving Volkswagen’s ambition of cutting the cost of motoring with the ambience to go with an upmarket brand.
When linked to the group’s own torque converter automatic transmission in particular, the stronger petrol motor has the laid-back demeanour of premium transport and combines lively output with a level of refinement that should concern Audi, let alone Ford and Vauxhall.
Curiously, the interior treatment of the entry-level version may well have stronger appeal to British tastes. Designed to be sporty as well as practical, its brushed aluminium fascia strip is neater and more visually appealing than some of the walnut-grain wood inserts used in the German-specification Highline versions we tried.
In entry-level trim, the German company’s D-sector contender will be pitched to cost just 1.3% more than models from volume manufacturers, Fleet NewsNet can reveal.
Finishing touches are now being put on the marketing strategy that will allow British customers to pay substantially less for the lead-in 1.6-litre petrol S version than the £15,600 being asked for the car in domestic market showrooms. Car rental uk.
And executives at Volkswagen UK are aiming to step up the pressure on Ford, Vauxhall and Peugeot by pricing the version of the Passat they expect to be most popular – the 2.0-litre TDI SE 140 – only 1% higher than competitor models when specification levels are taken into account.
Volkswagen UK director Paul Willis said: ‘We are still working on the details, but I can tell you that our SE cars will include six-speed transmission, electronic handbrake, cruise control and 16-inch alloy wheels. This is specification packaging that puts us way ahead of our volume competitors.’
Speaking in Barcelona at the company’s second media launch of its next-generation model, Willis claimed that early indications from UK contract hire and leasing companies suggested residual values were set to be as much as 10 points higher than the previous Passat. Car rental uk.
He said: ‘This is good news. It puts us within spitting distance of Audi and BMW and I’m very pleased with the way things are shaping up.
‘To be honest, I was worried about the prospects for this car because the previous version had such a huge impact on the image of the brand. That resulted in very high demand and a dramatic improvement in our residuals.
‘I wondered if it would be possible to follow that level of achievement, but it looks like Volkswagen has moved the game on again. It’s most satisfying.’
Willis claims the new car’s pricing structure and strong residuals are paramount to his plans for the development of Volkswagen UK over the longer term. Car rental uk.
He said: ‘Believe me, we understand the supply and demand equilibrium.
‘While we don’t have ambitions for any large growth in volume, we do aim to retain our leadership of the saloon sub-sector in the UK. That is not the case in the rest of Europe, but the factory shares our goals. And while we are both working to increase our share of the UK market, we are dedicated to raising the quality of our business.
‘You only have to look at what goes on with competitor brands to see that anyone can sell cars at a discount, but achieving the right balance between volume and quality of share is more difficult. Our strategy is to undersell our share in the rental and other sub-sectors of the fleet market that can adversely affect residuals.
‘This is a declining sector, of course, and some of our rivals are pricing their products at less than the Golf, which is in the segment below the Passat. Clearly, that is a ridiculous situation – they’re trying to buy business and it’s small wonder you read about them being unprofitable.
‘We are working hard to position ourselves away from all that. The brands that achieve D-sector growth in future will be those that have value rather than forced discounts. The new Passat will be a strong user-chooser car – it has a beautifully sculptured appearance that excites me. I think it looks like a real winner.’ Car rental uk.
As already reported by Fleet NewsNet, standard safety equipment in the Passat will include electronic stability control, driver, front passenger, front side and curtain airbags, fast-response rear LED lights, active front headrests and Isofix child seat mountings. Keyless entry and an electronic parking brake are also standard-fit and a Bluetooth telephone unit, a 600 watt hi-fi system and dual-zone Climatronic air conditioning are among optional items, along with a 230-volt mains outlet in the rear compartment to power laptop or computer games equipment.
Behind the wheel
WITH longer, wider and taller bodywork to haul around, it comes as no surprise to find that the lowest-rung Passat engine needs to be worked fairly hard to keep up a brisk pace on fast cross-country routes.
How it will cope with lugging four or five occupants – and with its bigger boot crammed full of luggage – remains to be seen, but to be fair, the new 1.6-litre FSI motor performed with gusto on our short test drive near Barcelona.
Now mounted transversely to free up additional body space, the 113bhp unit becomes vociferous at high revs but does settle to a more relaxed gait in sixth gear on the open road.
Irrespective of speed or territory, progress in the 2.0-litre FSI version proves to be noticeably easier, however. In 147bhp guise, the Passat comes closer to achieving Volkswagen’s ambition of cutting the cost of motoring with the ambience to go with an upmarket brand.
When linked to the group’s own torque converter automatic transmission in particular, the stronger petrol motor has the laid-back demeanour of premium transport and combines lively output with a level of refinement that should concern Audi, let alone Ford and Vauxhall.
Curiously, the interior treatment of the entry-level version may well have stronger appeal to British tastes. Designed to be sporty as well as practical, its brushed aluminium fascia strip is neater and more visually appealing than some of the walnut-grain wood inserts used in the German-specification Highline versions we tried.
Sunday, April 10, 2005
Mercedes ML off -roader
This time, it’s the new ML off-roader, battle-ready to take on the new Land Rover Discovery, the versatile Volvo XC90 and the ageing but still sharp BMW X5. Which means there’s going to be quite a school-run showdown come September when the ML range arrives. Car rental uk.
The M-class’s biggest change is the switch from a ladder frame to a monocoque chassis – a move prompted by drivers less concerned with off-road prowess and more with on-road comfort and dynamics.
The chassis sits on a new, more road-friendly suspension layout, with double wishbones at the front and a complex four-link set-up out back.
Buyers will have a choice of three engines. The entry-level petrol, the 272bhp 3.5-litre V6, is topped by the flagship 306bhp 5.0-litre V8. The 224bhp 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel will be followed in 2006 by a detuned 190bhp version of the same engine. car rental uk.
Naturally, all powerplants are Euro IV compliant, with particulate filters an option on the diesels. The ML line-up is fitted with Mercedes-Benz advanced 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission, which permanently splits torque equally between front and rear axle. UK drivers will also have the choice of standard steel or optional air-sprung suspension. car rental uk.
Despite growing in all directions – 150mm longer (now 4,780mm) 71mm wider (now 1,911mm) and 5mm lower (now 1,815mm with roof rails) – the big Mercedes-Benz looks far more aggressive and athletic. This is helped by its long 2,915mm wheelbase, a massive 95mm increase, and its rakish windscreen angle.
And yet model for model, the new ML is 50kg lighter than the outgoing range, because of the switch to car-like monocoque construction.
For a striking and confident-looking off-roader, the new M-class certainly looks the part. Its toothy grille, liberal touches of chrome and substantial cladding may not appeal to everyone’s taste, but there’s no denying its powerful and confident presence. car rental uk.
And it has a very American look to it – no surprise given it will be built by Americans at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama – and America will be its biggest market.
The M-class’s biggest change is the switch from a ladder frame to a monocoque chassis – a move prompted by drivers less concerned with off-road prowess and more with on-road comfort and dynamics.
The chassis sits on a new, more road-friendly suspension layout, with double wishbones at the front and a complex four-link set-up out back.
Buyers will have a choice of three engines. The entry-level petrol, the 272bhp 3.5-litre V6, is topped by the flagship 306bhp 5.0-litre V8. The 224bhp 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel will be followed in 2006 by a detuned 190bhp version of the same engine. car rental uk.
Naturally, all powerplants are Euro IV compliant, with particulate filters an option on the diesels. The ML line-up is fitted with Mercedes-Benz advanced 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission, which permanently splits torque equally between front and rear axle. UK drivers will also have the choice of standard steel or optional air-sprung suspension. car rental uk.
Despite growing in all directions – 150mm longer (now 4,780mm) 71mm wider (now 1,911mm) and 5mm lower (now 1,815mm with roof rails) – the big Mercedes-Benz looks far more aggressive and athletic. This is helped by its long 2,915mm wheelbase, a massive 95mm increase, and its rakish windscreen angle.
And yet model for model, the new ML is 50kg lighter than the outgoing range, because of the switch to car-like monocoque construction.
For a striking and confident-looking off-roader, the new M-class certainly looks the part. Its toothy grille, liberal touches of chrome and substantial cladding may not appeal to everyone’s taste, but there’s no denying its powerful and confident presence. car rental uk.
And it has a very American look to it – no surprise given it will be built by Americans at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama – and America will be its biggest market.
Thursday, April 07, 2005
Nisan Primera 2.2 dCi SVE6
OVER the past few days, I have developed a callus on my forefinger, having spent endless hours jabbing away at the pad of a calculator, testing and retesting my findings on the fuel economy of our long-term Nissan Primera. Car rental uk..
Since my last road test, I have completed a couple of long journeys up to the north of England. While it showed that the satellite nagivation, once mastered, is a wonderful piece of equipment, the fuel gauge seemed to move too quickly from brimming to empty. Car rental uk.
I was sure I was just being picky and expecting it to be super-frugal as I had just been testing a supermini, so I decided to get out my abacus and do some checking.
According to my real-life test figures, the Primera is averaging 33.7mpg, some way short of the combined official test figure of 46.3mpg.
The previous tester, Sandie Hurford, was achieving about 31mpg and my highest economy on a long run is 38mpg. It doesn’t make a lot of sense as the Nissan X-trail we had on test recently, which has exactly the same engine, was returning a combined figure of 38mpg. Car rental uk.
So this is where the calculator comes in. My digital fumblings reveal that the difference between the actual cost of fuel used and the predicted cost, according to the economy figures, is about £2,000 over 60,000 miles.
Compare this with other real-world figures from previous test cars, such as the Honda Accord 2.2 CDTi Sport, which delivered 48.1mpg, and the Vauxhall Vectra estate SRi 1.9 CDTi 150, which returned 42.6mpg.
For a fleet manager trying to control costs, this level of discrepancy can be a nasty surprise. Something tells me all is not well in the engine bay and I will be booking the car for a thorough going-over at the local dealership.
We will keep you posted but if you are a driver of a Nissan Primera and have a better or worse mpg than us, please email the details to kate.batchelor@emap.com so we can compare results
Since my last road test, I have completed a couple of long journeys up to the north of England. While it showed that the satellite nagivation, once mastered, is a wonderful piece of equipment, the fuel gauge seemed to move too quickly from brimming to empty. Car rental uk.
I was sure I was just being picky and expecting it to be super-frugal as I had just been testing a supermini, so I decided to get out my abacus and do some checking.
According to my real-life test figures, the Primera is averaging 33.7mpg, some way short of the combined official test figure of 46.3mpg.
The previous tester, Sandie Hurford, was achieving about 31mpg and my highest economy on a long run is 38mpg. It doesn’t make a lot of sense as the Nissan X-trail we had on test recently, which has exactly the same engine, was returning a combined figure of 38mpg. Car rental uk.
So this is where the calculator comes in. My digital fumblings reveal that the difference between the actual cost of fuel used and the predicted cost, according to the economy figures, is about £2,000 over 60,000 miles.
Compare this with other real-world figures from previous test cars, such as the Honda Accord 2.2 CDTi Sport, which delivered 48.1mpg, and the Vauxhall Vectra estate SRi 1.9 CDTi 150, which returned 42.6mpg.
For a fleet manager trying to control costs, this level of discrepancy can be a nasty surprise. Something tells me all is not well in the engine bay and I will be booking the car for a thorough going-over at the local dealership.
We will keep you posted but if you are a driver of a Nissan Primera and have a better or worse mpg than us, please email the details to kate.batchelor@emap.com so we can compare results
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
Peugeot 407 SW SE 2.2
IT’S easy to understand the appeal of a big V8 or V12, but why my excitement over our long-term 407 SW’s far more modest 2.2-litre engine?
Visually, the engine is no Titian – and in place of the more usual six cylinders for an engine of this capacity, the SW makes do with four. But this is its appeal – it feels different, more visceral. It’s pure seduction. Car rental uk.
Four-cylinder engines are inherently unbalanced lumps, but Peugeot has countered this generic shortcoming by equipping the SW’s engine with twin balancer shafts to smooth matters out. And in daily use the engine has always remained unruffled all the way to its conservative 6,000rpm limit. But the 2.2-litre petrol unit is one for the enthusiast and not exactly hardcore fleet material. For that, Peugeot’s 407 range has some HDi-engined models that offer much improved economy with no loss in real day-to-day performance. Car rental uk.
I’ve abandoned all hope of bettering 30.1mpg. One week of unrealistic restraint did return 32mpg but the effort required defeats the 2.2’s raison d’être – driver enjoyment.
The SW’s avant-garde lines belie what a useful load carrier it is. Although overall ‘seats-down’ boot capacity is about 150 litres short of Renault’s Laguna Sport Tourer, the SW has resorted to some unorthodox solutions to maximise what it has. Its boot is wide and uncluttered by suspension turrets – springs and dampers are mounted horizontally beneath the boot floor. Car rental uk.
If you’re going to spend long hours out on the road, the 407 SW makes for a passable surrogate office. Push a lever under the front passenger seat, pull the backrest forward on to the seat base and, hey presto, a desktop big enough for a laptop PC.
Visually, the engine is no Titian – and in place of the more usual six cylinders for an engine of this capacity, the SW makes do with four. But this is its appeal – it feels different, more visceral. It’s pure seduction. Car rental uk.
Four-cylinder engines are inherently unbalanced lumps, but Peugeot has countered this generic shortcoming by equipping the SW’s engine with twin balancer shafts to smooth matters out. And in daily use the engine has always remained unruffled all the way to its conservative 6,000rpm limit. But the 2.2-litre petrol unit is one for the enthusiast and not exactly hardcore fleet material. For that, Peugeot’s 407 range has some HDi-engined models that offer much improved economy with no loss in real day-to-day performance. Car rental uk.
I’ve abandoned all hope of bettering 30.1mpg. One week of unrealistic restraint did return 32mpg but the effort required defeats the 2.2’s raison d’être – driver enjoyment.
The SW’s avant-garde lines belie what a useful load carrier it is. Although overall ‘seats-down’ boot capacity is about 150 litres short of Renault’s Laguna Sport Tourer, the SW has resorted to some unorthodox solutions to maximise what it has. Its boot is wide and uncluttered by suspension turrets – springs and dampers are mounted horizontally beneath the boot floor. Car rental uk.
If you’re going to spend long hours out on the road, the 407 SW makes for a passable surrogate office. Push a lever under the front passenger seat, pull the backrest forward on to the seat base and, hey presto, a desktop big enough for a laptop PC.
