New Clio Spied

Latest Images of the new Renault Clio III surface ahead of the expected Geneva Motor Show debut...

We have got our hands on the clearest images yet of the eagerly anticipated Renault Clio III.

First shown on the website www.planeterenault.com, the images reveal the Geneva Motor Show car - set to be unveiled on March 4th - being prepared for transport

While the lights are barely changed, new front and rear bumpers will give the model a fresh look when the car hits dealers in June.

The Clio is only the start of the firm’s plans for Geneva. Sport Tourer and Renaultsport versions of the Mégane will be revealed, adding practicality and pace to the range.

The estate is due early in the autumn, with the hot model appearing at the end of the year. And as if that wasn’t enough, the new five-seater Scenic and seven-seater Grand Scenic MPVs will debut in Switzerland, ahead of their arrival here at the end of May.

To find out more about the Renault range please visit Lifestyle Renault

Source [Auto Express]

Lifestyle Renault in Tunbridge Wells and Eastbourne - Your preferred Renault Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Kent and Sussex

New Review - Renault Laguna Coupé

It's fair to say that the last Laguna has received a lukewarm reception. The stylish Coupé aims to revive the model's fortunes.

• On the road price: £21,887 - £27,417
• For : Elegant styling, agile handling, strong performance
• Against : Unimaginative cabin, unsettled ride

Styling/Image
When it comes to buying a coupe, then style sells. In this respect, the Renault should be a sales hit. The nose takes its cues from the humble hatch, but from the windscreen back the Laguna gets bespoke sheet metal. With its flowing lines, low roofline and Aston Martin inspired tail, the French car certainly turns heads. All versions get 18-inch alloy rims and xenon headlamps, while range-topping GT models add hi-tech 4Control four-wheel steering.

Interior/Practicality
Despite its rakish exterior, the Laguna’s cabin is actually very accommodating. Individual rear chairs mean the Renault is a strict four-seater, but all occupants get decent head and legroom. There’s also a 423-litre load bay and the rear bench has a 50/50 split and fold facility. Sadly, the interior lacks the bespoke feel of a true coupe, as the dashboard is lifted straight of the hatchback. There’s little wrong with the quality of the fixtures and fittings, but even with the GT’s standard leather trim the Coupe doesn’t feel special inside. All models get climate control, Bluetooth connection and xenon headlamps.

Engine/Performance
Buyers aren’t short of engine choice when it comes to the Coupe. Two petrol units are available – a 202bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre, and a 236bhp 3.5-litre V6, which sprints from zero to 60mph in 7.4 seconds. Diesel fans can pick 148 or 177bhp versions firm’s tried and tested 2.0-litre dCi powerplant, while range-topping cars get a 232bhp 3.5-litre V6. Mated to a standard six-speed automatic gearbox, this smooth and refined motor will complete the standstill to 60mph benchmark in 7.3 seconds and yet return 39mpg at the pumps.

Driving
Out on the road, the Renault manages to back up its great looks with a fine driving experience. The secret to the car’s ability is the firm’s hi-tech 4Control four-wheel steering system. At low speeds the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction as the fronts, dramatically reducing the car’s turning circle. Go faster and the back wheels point into the corner, increasing agility, grip and the Laguna’s speed through bends. However, the steering could do with more feedback and the low speed ride is a little too firm. Entry-level petrol and diesel models get a traditional two-wheel steering set-up.

Ownership costs
Unlike other models in Renault’s line-up, the Coupe doesn’t benefit from great value pricing. Fortunately, the French firm hasn’t skipped on kit and all versions come well equipped. Sadly, this doesn’t make up for poor residuals of between 35 and 40 percent. Cost conscious buyers will be best off with the 148bhp 2.0-litre oil-burner, which produces 155g/km of CO2 and returns 47.9mpg.

Safety/Environment
With a reputation for securing five star EuroNCAP awards, Renault will have made sure the Coupe is safe. All versions get six airbags, electronic stability control and xenon headlamps. For an extra £250, there’s the option of an electronic tyre pressure monitoring system. If you want to minimise any environmental impact, then steer clear of the V6-engined models. The petrol car is the least efficient, returning 28.2mpg and producing top VED tax band CO2 emissions of 238g/km.

Our Choice: Laguna Coupe GT 2.0 dCi 180

To find out more about the Renault ranve please visit Lifestyle Renault

Source [Auto Express]

Lifestyle Renault in Tunbridge Wells and Eastbourne - Your preferred Renault Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Kent and Sussex

First Drives - Renault Mégane Coupé

French three-door looks good, but how does it perform on the road?

Elegant models such as the Alfa Romeo Brera, VW Scirocco and Renault Laguna Coupé have proved that putting desirability before practicality is making a comeback. Now Renault’s Mégane is getting in on the act. The Coupé version is here – and we’ve driven it on UK roads.

In terms of styling, Renault has done a fantastic job. From every angle, the low-slung Coupé is a real head-turner. Aluminium-effect grille surrounds brighten up the nose, while the raked roofline, muscular rear haunches and redesigned tail-lamps give the Renault an athletic stance.

However, the Mégane still retains an element of practicality. There’s a useful 344-litre boot, while two adults can fit snugly in the rear seats.

Inside, there’s soft-touch leather on the dash and doors, and a chunky feel to the switchgear. However, the seats could offer more support during cornering, while the navigation and audio controls are counter-intuitive.

The Coupé sits 12mm lower than the five-door, and has a stiffer suspension set-up which sharpens up the dynamics. Unfortunately, the ride is fidgety on bumpy B-roads, and the electrically assisted steering, while weightier than on the hatch, offers no real feedback. The 2.0-litre TCe turbo engine is a different story, though, providing strong, smooth acceleration, thanks to a healthy 178bhp and 300Nm of torque. There’s also a less potent 1.6-litre petrol unit, or a choice of three dCi diesels.

If driving dynamics play second fiddle to style, then the Mégane could be the choice for you. However, with prices from £14,745 to £19,195 before fitting options, it’s expensive for a Renault. Performance fans might want to wait until the Renaultsport version, previewed by the Mégane Trophy Concept at last year’s Paris Motor Show, goes on sale next year.

To find out more about the Renault range please visit Lifestyle Renault

Source [Auto Express] Written by Jack Rix

Lifestyle Renault in Tunbridge Wells and Eastbourne - Your preferred Renault Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Kent and Sussex

First Drives - Mazda 3 1.6 MZ-CD

Is three the magic number for Mazda?

It’s impossible to overstate the importance of this car for the Japanese manufacturer – not only is it the firm’s best-selling model worldwide, but it’s entering the ring with UK favourites like the Ford Focus and classy MkVI Golf.

As with its predecessor, the 3 shares its underpinnings with the Focus – known for its sublime chassis. Mazda has also achieved what other manufacturers find so difficult. Just like the latest 2 and 6, this incarnation weighs less than the last – up to 15kg to be exact – while still offering more generous dimensions, better interior space and more standard kit for your money.

It looks good too. Most significant changes have occurred at the front of the car, where a new, more expressive face smiles back at you. RX-8 style lights, as well as the larger side air intakes with neatly integrated fog lamps, give the car a sportier look than its predecessor. Elsewhere the creased body panels resemble the Mazda6'sstyling, but distilled into a hatchback shape. Overall, it’s an eye-catching design, but considering the platform is little more than a tightened and stiffened version of the old car’s underpinnings, it could have been more adventurous to make it stand out from the crowd.

Mazda has never been shy about the fact that driving dynamics, or the ‘Zoom-Zoom’ philosophy, are high of its list of priorities. And it shines through the moment you get behind the wheel. The steering is crisp and loads up nicely under cornering - offering feedback from the front wheels – while it feels grippy and composed in the bends. Changing gear is notchy and precise, as we’ve come to expect from Mazda and every engine has been tuned to offer a sporty soundtrack, too.

But the real surprise is the level of refinement and comfort, despite the agile character of the car. Mazda claim a six to eleven per cent reduction in road noise, and it’s true. Wind flutter and road roar are virtually non-existent, while the suspension absorbs bumps like a sponge and offers decent body-control on the move.

It’s a shame that the interior can’t live up to the quality of the driving experience though. A lot of thought has gone into the cabin layout – positioning the tiny navigation and trip computer screen high on the dash Honda Civic-style, so your eyes don’t have to stray far from the road – but it’s a button-fest that feels old-fashioned already, and the quality of the new Golf’s interior puts it to shame.

There’s a new range of more powerful and economical direct-injection petrol and diesel engines to choose from. Our test car was fitted with 1.6-diesel producing 107bhp and 240Nm of torque, while emitting 119g/km of CO2 and returning 63mpg. And on the winding roads of our test-route it was no slouch, delivering its torque low down in the rev range for effortless progress.

The Mazda3 has always been somewhat anonymous in the UK, despite being a genuinely entertaining car to drive. Lets hope Mazda has done enough to ensure this talented all-rounder gets the recognition it deserves.

To find out more about the Mazda range please visit Lifestyle Mazda

Source [Auto Express] Written by Jack Rix

New Ford Ka raises the bar with improved residual values

The all-new Ford Ka is set to raise the bar by improving its predicted residual value rating when compared to the previous model.

The news means that it should prove a popular and in-demand used car when it enters the used Ford car market.

According to data provider Cap Monitor, all petrol models of the new Ka are now valued at 39 per cent after three years on the road and 60,000 miles on the clock.

Martin Ward of Cap said: "The new Ford Ka is a brilliant small car which is coming to the market at the right time when customers are looking for economical cars that are cheap to run, fun and have great styling - it’s a superb drive for such a small car."

An added attraction of the new model is the fact that the insurance rating on the Studio version of the new Ka starts at 1E - the lowest rating there is.

The European version of the Ka is produced in Valencia, Spain and the all-new range is available now with prices starting from £7,945.

To find out more about the Ford range please visit Lifestyle Ford

Source [VCARS] Written by Barry Oakey

Lifestyle Ford in Crawley, Horsham, Redhill, Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge - Your preferred Ford Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Kent, Sussex and Surrey

Ford Fiesta Econetic named UK greenest five-seater car

Independent analysts have named the Ford Fiesta Econetic as being the UK’s greenest five-seater car.

Publisher Jay Nagley of Cleangreencars.co.uk believes that the car sets a new industry benchmark.

Mr Nagley said: "Of the 3,600 production models ranked by CO2 on Cleangreencars.co.uk, the Ford Fiesta Econetic comes out top among five-seater cars."

Used Ford dealers will already be familiar with the Econetic package of extra fuel efficiency refinements which are already offered on Focus and Mondeo models.

Now the Ford Fiesta will benefit from the package, with over 500 Fiesta Econetics having been ordered already.

Drivers who buy one can take advantage of modifications including lowered suspension, aerodynamic body styling and a gear change alert.

Weight loss and aerodynamic adjustments are vital in helping the Econetic remain environmentally-friendly.

To find out more about the Ford range please visit Lifestyle Ford

Source [VCARS] Written by Bobby Minter

Lifestyle Ford in Crawley, Horsham, Redhill, Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge - Your preferred Ford Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Kent, Sussex and Surrey

Mazda6’s strong used car price ‘gives it the edge on rivals’

New data released by Cap Motor Research has suggested that the all-new Mazda6 2.2-litre diesel will have a stronger used car price than its rivals.

Cap used car valuation experts predict that three years into its lifespan and with 60,000 miles on the clock, the new model will retain an impressive 39 per cent of its original value.

The forecast means that a used Mazda6 will be quite expensive but the cost will be offset by the fact that its low CO2 emissions will mean that all saloon and hatchback versions will only attract band C vehicle excise duty rates.

The new car’s high residual value places it ahead of competitors such as the Toyota Avensis and the Vauxhall Insignia.

Jeff Knight, forecast manager for Cap, commented: "The Mazda6 has established itself as a solid and reliable model in the company car upper medium sector. The new 2.2 diesel model will consolidate the car’s position as a well-specified, stylish and reliable option for user choosers."

The Mazda6 has been in production since 2002.

To find out more about the Mazda range please visit Lifestyle Mazda

Source [VCARS] Written by Roxy Moran

Focus RS Unleashed

Focus RS specification revealed in full

Finally, Ford has confirmed the specification of the new Focus RS. And it's the most powerful front wheel drive car the firm has ever built...

With a staggering 300bhp, this is the fastest, most powerful front wheel drive, family car Ford has ever built.

It's 2.5-litre five cylinder turbocharged engine produces an awe inspiring 440Nm of torque, and will rev to a impressive 7,050rpm.

Capable of sprinting from 0-62mph in just 5.9seconds, the car is also capable of a staggering 165mph.

The newcomer is heavy though, tipping the scales at 1,467kg, yet this doesn't seem to have affected fuel economy, which is claimed to be 30.5mpg.

CO2 emissions place the model in Band G - with the car emitting 225g/co2 per kilometer.

The figures have all been released today, as Ford prepares to luanch its hotly anticipated model in March.

There's still no word on prices, however, which are estimated to kick off at around £25,000

The spiritual successor to the bewinged Escort Cosworth, the new Focus RS gets an individual new look. Up front, there’s a gloss black grille, plus circular spotlights and bonnet air intakes, while the rear gets a spoiler inspired by Ford’s world rally contender and a diffuser with twin exhaust pipes.

Completing the arrangement are 19-inch multispoke alloys wrapped in low-profile tyres.

Inside, the RS is fitted with Recaro seats with body-coloured detailing, carbon fibre trim on the centre console and a brushed aluminium gearlever.

To find out more about the Ford Range please visit Lifestyle Ford

Source [Auto Express]

Lifestyle Ford in Crawley, Horsham, Redhill, Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge - Your preferred Ford Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Kent, Sussex and Surrey

Ford Fiesta 1.4 Titanium 3dr- Save £847!

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The new Fiesta is a vivid expression of all that is inspirational in design today. If you’ve ever marvelled at ground-breaking architecture, been excited by haute couture, or been moved by art – this car will provoke a strong sense of déjà vu. Today’s design icons have influenced every line and detail, from the sculpted, dynamic exterior to its sophisticated interior. And the technology in the cabin is as innovative as the most advanced electronics around today.

Experience the power of seduction with the new Fiesta Titanium. This is sumptuous, contemporary luxury at its finest. With functionality to match its impressive form, the new Fiesta Titanium offers a superior level of technical innovation normally reserved for much bigger cars. New Fiesta Titanium features include:

• 16” 15-spoke alloy wheels
• Cruise control
• Power-operated folding door mirrors
• Automatic headlamps
• Privacy glass
• Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (EATC)
• Automatic wipers
• Two rear speakers
• Front Fog Lights
• Air Conditioning

Metallic paint extra cost unless otherwise stated. Subject to availability at Lifestyle Ford for new vehicles registered before 31/03/09. Finance subject to status. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. A purchase fee of £10 is payable with the GMFV if you wish to own the vehicle at the end of the agreement. Further charges may be made subject to mileage/condition if the Ford Fiesta 1.4 Titanium is returned at the end of the finance agreement. This supercedes all previously advertised manufacturer’s promotions. Details correct at time of going to print. Where savings are shown, advertised prices are deducted from the manufacturer’s recommended OTR price. Vehicle images are for illustration purpose only.

Lifestyle Ford are part of the Lifestyle Europe Group with locations covering the whole of Kent, Sussex and Surrey.

Lifestyle Ford Crawley, West Sussex. RH10 9PY | Tel - 01293 845000
Lifestyle Ford Horsham, West Sussex. RH12 1QJ | Tel - 01403 254331
Lifestyle Ford Redhill, Surrey. RH1 1SJ | Tel - 01737 768831
Lifestyle Ford Tunbridge Wells, Kent. TN4 8AG | Tel - 01892 515666
Lifestyle Ford Tonbridge, Kent. TN9 1TN | Tel - 01732 770000

Ford C-MAX 1.8 Style - Save £2,822!

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Ever noticed how some people thrive on family life, always on to a fresh challenge? You’ll see a lot of them behind the wheel of the C-MAX making full use of the versatile interior as they take family, friends and all their gear to the next new activity. Lean, elegant and agile, the C-Max designed to keep pace with the busiest of lives, leaving other cars trailing in its stylish wake.

With its vibrant and sporty style, the C-MAX Style is an irresistible activity vehicle. C-MAX Style key features include:

• 16" Design wheels
• CD/Radio
• Trip computer
• Rear back seat folding trays
• CFC-Free Air conditioning
• Electrically-operated and heated door mirrors
• Body colour exterior door and tailgate handles
• Sunblinds integrated into rear doors

Metallic paint extra cost unless otherwise stated. Subject to availability at Lifestyle Ford for new vehicles registered before 31/03/09. Finance subject to status. Guarantees/indemnities may be required. A purchase fee of £10 is payable with the GMFV if you wish to own the vehicle at the end of the agreement. Further charges may be made subject to mileage/condition if the car is returned at the end of the finance agreement. This supercedes all previously advertised manufacturer’s promotions. Details correct at time of going to print. Where savings are shown, advertised prices are deducted from the manufacturer’s recommended OTR price. Vehicle images are for illustration purpose only.

Lifestyle Ford are part of the Lifestyle Europe Group with locations covering the whole of Kent, Sussex and Surrey.

Lifestyle Ford Crawley, West Sussex. RH10 9PY | Tel - 01293 845000
Lifestyle Ford Horsham, West Sussex. RH12 1QJ | Tel - 01403 254331
Lifestyle Ford Redhill, Surrey. RH1 1SJ | Tel - 01737 768831
Lifestyle Ford Tunbridge Wells, Kent. TN4 8AG | Tel - 01892 515666
Lifestyle Ford Tonbridge, Kent. TN9 1TN | Tel - 01732 770000

First-generation Mazda3 ‘thriving’ in the year that new model launches

Mazda has reported that its first-generation Mazda3 is thriving in the year that an all-new Mazda3 model is about to be launched.

It seems that the old model is going out with a bang, having shown year-on-year sales increases in each of the four years that it has been available.

The news suggests that it will be a popular car to sell for used Mazda dealers; if further evidence were needed then consider the fact that it has won 90 car awards since its 2003 debut.

The all-new Mazda3, which is due to hit European showrooms in spring, looks set to pick up the baton passed down to it by its speedy predecessor.

Its maker is confident that drivers will share its view that the car has a "more powerful emotional design with a richer expression and more dynamic stance".

Designers have introduce "subtly-curving" lines along the sides which apparently makes the model "appear to be about to run".

The Mazda3 is known as the Mazda Axela in Japan.

To find out more about the Mazda range please visit Lifestyle Mazda

Source [VCARS] Written by Charlie King

The All-New Mazda3 at a glance

Exterior

• Design theme: "Remaining faithful to an inherited identity while evolving the design to make it more expressive."
• Powerful emotional design with a richer expression and more dynamic stance
• Two distinct body styles - hatchback and sedan
• A new purposeful face that integrates the front grille's lower section into the 5-point grille to further distinguish the unique character of the Mazda brand
• Aerodynamics improved with drag coefficient (Cd) of only 0.28 (sedan) and 0.30 (hatchback), among the best in the segment
• All design elements focus on and flow into the centre to express power and dynamism
• Subtly curving lines along the sides and a wedge-shaped character line extending from the prominent front fenders communicate dynamism that makes the model appear to be about to run and reflect a design theme shared with the Mazda2 and Mazda6
• The bold curve and low centre of gravity of the protruding rear shoulders on the 5-door hatchback inherit the distinctive 'Mazda3 look' established by the previous model
• Sedan has the refined flowing lines of a coupe silhouette
• Functional beauty is embodied in the design of the airflow management system
• Minimal gaps between body panels signify solid quality
• Sedan and hatchback are longer (SDN: 4,580 mm, +90 mm / 5HB: 4,460, +45 mm, and for the Sports high grade versions 4,490 mm, +55 mm) and taller at 1,470 mm, +5 mm
  

Interior

• 6-to-11% noise reduction vs. previous generation, thanks to aerodynamic work, increased suspension rigidity, optimal positioning of vibration dampening materials, increased bodyshell and panel rigidity
• Sporty and sophisticated interior design that combines a sense of roominess with a dashboard turned to the driver for a 'one-with-the-car' feeling
• Use of soft grained surface material on the upper section of the dashboard combines with minimal join lines to achieve a vastly improved look of interior quality
• Practical centre console with sliding armrest
• Gear shift lever placed closer to driver for easier shifting
• State of the art ergonomics and HMI with 'zone layout' for less distraction from the road
• New multi-information display (MID)
• New interactive lighting control and illumination entry system
• New sport seats with optional 3 memory function plus 2 integrated in the keyless entry and start system transmitter
• 10-speaker Bose® premium surround sound system, with Audiopilot2® noise compensation and Centerpoint® surround system
• Hands-free system for Bluetooth-equipped cell phones and mobile audio players

Powertrains

• New MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel with high and standard power versions both meeting Euro stage V emission standards. Mazda unique technology diesel particulate filter (DPF) offering reduced regeneration times
• High power version: 136 kW/185 PS at 3,500 rpm and 400 Nm of maximum torque at just 1,800-3,000 rpm and combined fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100 km (CO2: 149 g/km)
• Standard power version: 110 kW/150 PS at 3,500 rpm and 360 Nm of maximum torque at 1,800-2,600 rpm and combined fuel consumption of 5.4 l/100 km (CO2: 144 g/km)
• MZ-CD 1.6-litre turbo diesel with diesel particulate filter (DPF) produces 80 kW/109 PS at 4,000 rpm and 240 Nm of maximum torque at just 1,750 rpm, and uses 0.3 litres less than the previous generation with a combined fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100 km (CO2: 119 g/km)
• MZR 2.0-litre petrol produces 110kW/150 PS at 6,500 rpm and maximum torque of 187 Nm at 4,000 rpm, with five-speed Automatic transmission and manual-shift mode, it has a combined fuel consumption of 7.7 l/100 km (CO2: 183 g/km)
• MZR 1.6-litre petrol produces 77 kW/105 PS at 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 145 Nm at 4,000 rpm, and uses 0.6 litres less than the previous generation with a combined fuel consumption of 6.3 l/100 km (CO2: 149 g/km)
• New catalyst that uses single nanotechnology for 2.0-litre petrol engine

Chassis & Safety

• Despite larger dimensions and more equipment, all-new Mazda3 weights up to 15 kg less
• Major evolution of the C-platform for more balance between the sports/comfort ratio
• 17% increase in use of high and ultra-high strength steels vs. outgoing model
• Double-digit increases in flexural and torsional rigidity for improved handling and safety
• Newly evolved MacPherson strut front suspension
• Newly evolved multilink rear suspension
• Electro-hydraulic power assist steering introduced to all versions for a light, but stable steering feel and reduced fuel consumption
• ABS, EBD, brake assist, traction control system (TCS) DSC, front, side, and curtain airbags are standard on all models, in all markets
• High-intensity Bi-xenon headlamps, pivoting adaptive front lighting system, emergency stop signal (ESS), rear vehicle monitoring (RVM), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and parking sensor system (optional)

*Preliminary data, subject to final homologation

To fin out more about the Mazda range please visit Lifestyle Mazda

New Ford Fiesta crowned WhatCar? Car of the Year and Mondeo is best family and estate car 2009

The new Ford Fiesta has been declared as 'the perfect car for now' by leading car magazine What Car?, as it names the Fiesta 1.25i Zetec the What Car? Car of the Year 2009.

The What Car? judges praised the new Fiesta inside and out, stating that no other supermini got close to its 'look at me' factor. The delicate curves and sharp edges made it the epitome of the stylish modern supermini.' They also commended the "zingy 1.25-litre engine, nimble handling and strong grip to make it a 'brilliant winner'…….."

Steve Fowler, What Car? editor, commented: "The Fiesta is the most complete small car we’ve ever tested – it’s practical enough to be used as a family car, fun enough to be used as a sports car and stylish enough to make the right impression. It’s also affordable to buy, cheap to run and kind to the planet."

John Fleming, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe, said: "This is tremendous news for the whole Ford team – the great British public has already made new Fiesta the UK's best-selling car in the closing months of last year, and this ultimate endorsement by What Car? Will drive the new Fiesta to even greater success this year."

Adding to the success of Fiesta as winner of Best Supermini, the Ford Mondeo won Best Family Car and Best Estate for 2009.

The What Car? Car of the Year 2009 awards are covered in the magazine's February edition, available now.

To find out more about the Ford range please visit Lifestyle Ford

Lifestyle Ford in Crawley, Horsham, Redhill, Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge - Your preferred Ford Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Kent, Sussex and Surrey

It's A Rally Long Way To Kazakhstan

Driving holidays are great. The freedom, the adventure, the independence of the open road, they’re a complete break from the daily grind but you have to wonder whether Will Browne has gone a little bit too far in planning his trip. Will, who works as an aftersales technician at Lifestyle Tunbridge Wells, is off to Kazakhstan as a participant in the Tashkent Rally.

Not content with subjecting himself to a three-week, 5,000-mile road trip across Europe and Asia, Will has chosen to complete the journey in a Mazda 121 saloon that he purchased for a Pound. The rules of the Tashkent Rally require participating cars to have cost no more than £100 but in picking up his noble steed for a solitary quid, Will has managed to swell his food budget by £99. That should go a long way in a Ukrainian Little Chef.

Will admits that that the Mazda 121 will need “a bit of work” before the mammoth journey that will take him across Germany, the Czech Republic, the Ukraine and Russia before ending in Almaty, Kazakhstan. It’s also likely to need more tinkering during the event as the distance must be completed without technical back-up. It means Will’s mechanical skills will to be tested to the full.

At the end of the rally, all participating vehicles are auctioned off to raise money for a local orphanage and Will is also collecting sponsorship money to hand over to this extremely worthy cause. The rally starts on May 7^th and anyone wishing to support Will can e-mail him at billbrowne86@hotmail.com

For more information about Lifestyle Europe please visit the website

Lifestyle Eastbourne Gets The Thumbs Up From Customers

The team at Lifestyle Renault in Eastbourne have had around six months to get their feet under the table as the French manufacturer’s official representatives in the town and its surrounding areas. There’s a strong community of Renault owners in Eastbourne, Hailsham, Bexhill and all parts in between so the focus of Lifestyle Renault since it opened its doors has been very much on providing these loyal customers with the highest quality service possible. The indications are that this approach has been a big success.

Brian Sear is a Bexhill resident and long standing Renault customer having purchased 2 Renault cars in the past from Russells Renault in Bexhill. When Lifestyle Renault took over the franchise from Russells last year, they employed many of that dealership’s staff and adopted their commitment to customer service. Brian is one of many local people who have been impressed with the results.

“I’ve only had my Renault Scenic for about two months but I’m very happy with it. The young lady at Lifestyle Renault was extremely helpful and really made the whole process very simple. I was trading in two cars as part-exchange and transferring a personalised numberplate to my new car but she helped with all the paperwork and gave some very useful advice. I’ll be using Lifestyle in the future to keep the car properly serviced.”

Also impressed with the accommodating service at Lifestyle Renault is 88-year-old Norman Wright of Hailsham. Norman traded in his Renault Modus for a new Clio Campus supermini a few months ago. “I don’t do a lot of mileage these days so I went for a basic Campus model that looked good value for money. I was delighted by the way I was treated by the salesman, Bob, who gave me a good deal on my Modus because of the low mileage.”

By now, the Lifestyle Renault staff in the sales and aftersales service departments have had the chance to meet a large number of the area’s Renault owners but they’re always keen to welcome more people down to the Lottbridge Drove showroom - whether they currently own a Renault car or not.

The dealership prides itself on offering the full range of facilities from the very latest new Renault models, to the comprehensive collection of quality used cars and the fully-equipped service centre. Most of all however, the team work to create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere around the site, giving customers confidence that they’ll always be well looked after.

Why not call in to Lifestyle Renault on 18-22 Lottbridge Drove, Eastbourne, East Sussex (BN23 6NS) to check out the superb new Renault range. Call their friendly sales team on 01323 737233 to find out more or log on to the award-winning website

All-new Mazda 3 to take ‘driving pleasure to new heights’

The programme manager responsible for developing the all-new Mazda 3 has commented that the sport compact is "capable of advancing driving pleasure to new heights".

Yoshiyuki Maeda said: "Instead of altering the size and general makeup, we focused on implementing improvements throughout the body structure, power-train, and chassis that would be immediately apparent to the driver and appreciated by every Mazda 3 occupant."

The car, which was unveiled at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, has key safety and environmental upgrades and both higher standard and optional equipment available.

Used Mazda dealers will be familiar with the popularity of its predecessor. One out of every three Mazdas sold worldwide is a Mazda 3, with the car proving a particularly big hit with young drivers.

A new multi-information display screen positioned high on the instrumental panel could ensure that the Mazda success story continues. The screen displays navigation, audio and trip information, while a second screen, situated to the right, can be used to control the car’s climate.

To find out more about the Mazda range please visit Lifestyle Mazda

Source [VCARS] Written by Roxy Moran

Special Edition Mazda2 Tamura

To celebrate the New Year, Mazda is introducing three new 'Tamura' Special Edition models based on its popular Mazda2 and Mazda6 hatchback cars. The new Tamura models will appeal to a broad range of customers and especially the young-at-heart, with their sporty styling and highly competitive pricing.

"As well as offering customers a uniquely sporty appearance on each new Tamura, we are also maintaining extremely competitive pricing for these Special Edition models," enthused Mark Cameron, Sales Director Mazda Motors UK. "These new cars retain all the practicality, generous equipment and fun-to-drive dynamics for which Mazda vehicles are rightly famous, and bring an extra appeal with their distinctive looks and unique exterior colours."

Available with a choice of three-door or five-door hatchback body styles, the Mazda2 1.3 Tamura is based on the regular TS2 model and benefits from the addition of a Sports Styling Pack (including front and rear sports bumpers, 2-bar sports grille, side skirts and rear spoiler), new four cylinder headlamps, unique 16-inch dark grey alloy wheels, special 'Tamura' badging and free metallic/mica or pearlescent paint. For the exterior there is a choice of four colours - unique Aluminium Metallic or Radiant Ebony Mica, plus either Aurora Blue Mica (for the 5dr model) or Crystal White Pearlescent. Inside, branded Tamura floor mats are fitted.

Mazda2 Tamura models come with the generous TS2 standard equipment level that includes: body coloured electric folding door mirrors, manual air-conditioning, remote central locking with deadlocks and silver bezels on the steering wheel, electric front windows, driver seat height adjustment, CD radio with auxiliary input jack and four speakers, multi-function glovebox with magazine rack, 60/40 split rear seats, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, as well as a leather steering wheel and gear knob. Safety and security equipment includes ABS with Emergency Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution, driver and passenger front airbags, side and curtain airbags plus Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser.

Both Mazda2 Tamura models come with a 1.3-litre, 86ps petrol engine and a five-speed manual transmission which enables the car to achieve 54.3mpg on the combined cycle and emissions of just 125 g/km.

Representing excellent value, the Mazda2 1.3 3dr Tamura is priced at £10,275 and the 5dr at £10,775 - just £397 more than the equivalent TS2 models.

To find out more about the Mazda range please visit Lifestyle Mazda

Special Edition Mazda6 Tamura

For drivers in search of more space, more performance and equally keen pricing, the new Mazda6 2.0 Tamura delivers 147ps for lively 0-to-60 mph acceleration in just 10.2 seconds, while its CO2 rating is a modest 168g/km.

Based on the Mazda6 2.0 5dr TS model, the new Tamura has the addition of a Sports Styling Pack (including front and rear sports bumpers, side skirts and rear spoiler), plus privacy glass, clear rear light bezels, unique 18-inch alloy wheels and special 'Tamura' badging. Inside, this Tamura features alloy pedals and branded Tamura floor mats.

The Mazda6 Tamura is available in two unique mica colours - Sparkling Black and Velocity Red - plus Galaxy Grey mica and Sunlight Silver metallic, all free of charge.

Standard equipment on the Mazda6 Tamura includes: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS), six airbags, remote central locking, Karakuri 60/40 split folding rear seats, a radio/single CD audio system with 6 speakers and an auxiliary jack for MP3 players, electric and heated door mirrors, cruise control, trip computer with speed alarm, dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, leather steering wheel and gear knob, a rear seat centre armrest and CF-Net steering wheels controls, plus a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser.

Also representing excellent value, the Mazda6 2.0 5dr Tamura is priced at £16,695 - just £306 more than the equivalent TS model.

To find out more about the Mazda range please visit Lifestyle Mazda