Money-saving motorists told to look out for used Renault Clio Sport Tourer

Used Renault Clio owners looking for an updated vehicle offering low running costs may wish to consider upgrading to the Renault Clio Sport Tourer.

A review of the vehicle by Channel Four reveals that the vehicle’s low running costs are one of its superior features.

The review states that "Renault parts and servicing costs are competitive with the mainstream", while buyers should also benefit from relatively cheap car insurance.

Furthermore, drivers will be given lots of bang for their bucks in terms of fuel consumption with the 1.5-litre dCi 86 providing motorists with 64.2 miles to the gallon.

And owners of the dCi 106 will not be missing out by much as they will have the capabilities of achieving 61.4 miles per gallon.

However, somewhat surprisingly, the review concludes that those motorists who only rack up a small number of annual miles may benefit from a petrol model - the 1.2-litre 16v - because of the current cost of diesel.

When reviewing the same vehicle, What Car? argued that the vehicle is a "great small estate" that is "fun to drive and comfortable".

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

Source [VCARS]

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

Lifestyle Europe Achieve Again At The AM Awards!

The AM Awards continues to recognise the best companies and highlight their achievements. The awards held last night were a glittering success with 21 winners collecting awards for their specialist categories.

Well done Lifestyle Europe - We managed to scoop 2 fantastic awards:

Retailer Awards

Best Retail Group (up to 10 sites)
Sponsored by: Auto Trader
Winner: Lifestyle Europe

Headline Awards

Personality of the Year
Sponsored by: Northridge Finance
Winner: Marc Matthew

There will be more to follow on this in the coming days - With all the latest photos!

Ford Ka: Why dealers are so pleased it’s here

‘It’s ‘car’ now, not ‘kay-aye’ or ‘ka’,’ said one dealer to us, as he took delivery of his very first new baby Ford. ‘However it’s pronounced, though, I’m delighted to see it. This couldn’t have been better timed.’

Such is the excitement in the Ford dealer network over the brand-new, second-generation Ka. The old one lasted 12 years – too long, said our dealer friend, even though it still shifted incredibly well right up until the end. ‘It’s the style that it sold on.’

This model aims to replicate that, but bring the recipe bang up-to-date. It’s got lots of airbags, advanced electric gadgets, a brand-new petrol engine and, for the first time, a turbo diesel. ‘The premium here is only £700, too’, said our man. ‘On the Fiat 500, it’s £1,500! A real, real opportunity for us.’

Why does he reference the Fiat? Because it’s actually Fiat that builds the new Ka for Ford, on a platform also used by the 500 and Panda. Fear not, no external panels are shared, and it remains unmistakably ‘Ka’. Sure, fans of the old one may already be aghast at the slightly generalised looks – this is more modern Ford than second gen Ka – but it’s sharp, sophisticated, and decidedly premium in appearance. It is the exact same 3.62m length as the old Ka, but it’s 10cm taller.

Inside, the links with the Fiat are clearer. Basic dash architecture and layout is very similar. However, the Ford has totally bespoke switchgear and, for enhanced showroom appeal, far better quality of materials than before.

The gearlever is high-set and the driving position, atop lofty seats, commanding. It feels like a much more mature, grown up car, rather than a miniaturised city runabout. It’s also spacious – four adults should fit relatively contently, for short periods at least. At 224 litres, the boot is 20 per cent bigger – and, for the first time, it even has a proper glovebox!

There are four trim levels: Studio, Style, Style+ (which adds air con and Quickclear front windscreen), and Zetec. Standard kit is youth orientated – six-speaker stereo, USB port – and fair rather than generous. But the quality of materials and the switchgear is so much better than before.

Dealers will also have three ‘Individual’ branded styling packages to up-sell – Grand Prix, Digital Art, and Tattoo – with coloured grill surrounds, mirror caps, decals, and matching interior features. All are rather unique.

Under the bonnet, there’s either a 68bhp 1.2-litre petrol, or a 74bhp 1.3-litre turbo diesel. These are both superb units, each returning sub-120g/km CO2 and notable economy.

The diesel is especially stunning from a planet-saving perspective. But unless customers’ daily commute contains a lot of heavy uphill gradients, where its extra torque comes in handy, we’d take the petrol. It’s much zingier-sounding and enthusiastic. While the diesel has welcome extra shove, it is also rather noisy.

On the road, Ford has done a fantastic job of redressing the Fiat 500’s chassis shortcomings. The Ka has much better bump absorption, particularly at speed, and fitting a rear anti-roll bar has enabled Ford’s engineers to soften the springs by 30 per cent and retune the dampers accordingly. Comfort levels, grip, and sheer involvement all benefit.

Changes to the steering geometry also give the Ka more linear responses than the 500. It isn’t as communicative as its own predecessor, but for a city car it’s brilliantly entertaining.

Shame the safety kit isn’t better. Only two airbags are fitted as standard, which looks incredibly poor next to the Fiat 500. That car includes seven – somewhat negating the Ka’s slim price advantage.

But it’s very economical – just the thing our dealer man wanted. An ECOnetic version is coming, but in the meantime the diesel returns 67.3mpg and emits just 112g/km CO2, the petrol 55.4mpg and 119g/km – completely thrashing the old Ka.

Right car, right time? You bet. No, it’s not cheap – at £8,995 without air con, the Ka has been moved upmarket – but the package delivers on the road and further enhances Ford’s green car portfolio. So a winner, then? The answer is, it simply has to be. Whichever way you say the name.

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

Source [Car Dealer Magazine] Written by Richard Aucock

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

Mazda Models Declared Best Choice for Cost-Conscious Motorists

Motorists in Crawley and Horsham should head to Lifestyle Mazda after a leading consumer magazine hailed two Mazda models as the ideal cars for cost-conscious drivers. Which? Car magazine names the Mazda6 and Mazda MX-5 sportscar as the financially astute downsizing option that could save fleets thousands of pounds.

“Downsizing continues to be a growing trend within the corporate sector as public and private sector fleets and company car drivers seek out lower emission, value-for-money models that deliver class-leading costs and wallet-friendly business and personal tax bills,” commented Mark Spowage, dealer principal at Lifestyle Mazda.

“Both the Mazda6 and MX-5 have established reputations for delivering low-cost motoring, high performance and excellent reliability. Now, Which? Car magazine highlights both models as winners for motorists considering downsizing, particularly from gas-guzzling models such as 4x4s.”

For high-mileage drivers, the publication recommends the recently launched Mazda6 2.2D TS2, priced at just £18,639 on‑the‑road, in preference to the BMW 3-series 320d SE four-door saloon costing £26,680.

Commenting on the Mazda’s credentials, the publication says: “It’s much cheaper to run and is packed with gadgets that are optional on the pricey BMW.”

It’s a view shared by vehicle valuation experts at CAP Motor Research, who calculate the Mazda model is likely to retain 38 per cent of its original price over a three year and 60,000 mile period, depreciating by just £11,539. This contrasts with the BMW, which is predicted to retain just 37 per cent of its value, losing a whopping £16,605 over the same period.

The publication also identifies the Mazda6 Estate as another alternative to a 4x4, stating it is “better to drive and cheaper to run”. The £19,324 Mazda6 Estate 2.2D TS2 triumphs over the £39,061 Land Rover Discovery 3 2.7TD V6 SE as it will retain 38 per cent of its value after three-years and 60,000 miles compared with 25 per cent for the 4x4.

In addition, the magazine names the Mazda MX-5 sportscar, which recorded a remarkable 97 per cent owner satisfaction score in the latest Which? Car survey, as the value for money alternative to the BMW Z4.

The publication declares the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0i Sport, priced at £20,657 on-the-road, as the money-saving alternative to the BMW Z4 sDrive 30i two-door convertible, which carries a hefty £32,660 price tag. CAP also points out that the Mazda MX-5 depreciates by just £14,592 over three years/60,000 miles, while the BMW plummets by £18,695.

Mark Spowage added: “Downsizing maybe the trend among both fleets and private buyers as the focus on cost management increases, but company car drivers that opt for a Mazda model will not be forgoing quality or specification.”

To find out more about the Mazda range or to arrange a test-drive, please visit Lifestyle Mazda

Lifestyle Mazda in Crawley and Horsham - Your preferred Mazda Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Servicing in Sussex

The Subaru Justy Twin Cam Special Edition

Subaru has the perfect answer for belt-tightening motorists wishing to downsize but not down-spec.

Diminutive delight, the Subaru Justy 1.0R is now available as a much sportier little number: the Subaru Justy 1.0 Twin Cam Special Edition.

Restricted to just 100 vehicles (50 in Black Mica, 50 in Shining Red), the extra equipment comprises rear roof spoiler; twin exhaust system; over roof 'viper stripes' and side decals; leather and alloy gear knob and rear privacy glass - creating the perfect blend of inexpensive, economical motoring in a desirable, sporty package.

Priced from £9,995, the Special Edition Twin Cam offers fantastic value for money at only £690 more than the standard model, even with a combined total of over £1,100 worth of extra kit.

This superb supermini, which returns 64.2 mpg on the Extra Urban Cycle and qualifies for the £35 annual Road Fund Licence, looks set to prove that even in these financially testing times, it is possible to get a great value for money, sporty vehicle with rock-solid reliability, frugal fuel economy, low CO2 emissions and low road fund licence all in one desirable package.

The standard Subaru Justy 1.0 R is already extremely well equipped with air conditioning; ABS with EBD; driver, passenger, front side and curtain airbags; radio/CD player with AUX input; four electric windows and remote central-locking, and is priced at a remarkable £9,305. A further enhancement available on both the Subaru Justy 1.0 R and Justy 1.0 Twin Cam is a stylish alloy wheel package comprising 15" Monza R wheels with Toyo 185/55R15 tyres: just £600 (inc. VAT) for a set of four (plus fitting).

The new Subaru Justy 1.0 Twin Cam now offers even more, and offers a racy alternative for the younger, and the young-at-heart, motorist.

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

Source [Car Pages]

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

First Drives - Ford Focus RS

Hold on tight as we ride in the fastest Ford Focus ever built!

Stand by for action! This is the most desirable hot hatch of 2009, and the fastest mainstream model in Ford’s history. Auto Express has been given exclusive access to the Focus RS, with a scarily fast passenger ride in the car that’s the star of the free magazine in the centre pages of this issue.

The man allocated the task of giving us a drive to remember is rising motorsport star Matthew Wilson – son of legendary rally driver and Ford WRC team boss, Malcolm Wilson. He’s the perfect pilot to get the best out of the RS, a model inspired by the world rally Focus and the ultimate roadgoing Ford flier.

And we certainly found the ideal location, in the shape of an empty airfield where Matthew was able to push the newcomer to its limits. The result is pure entertainment. Our driver demonstrated a blur of hand and foot co-ordination and enjoyed complete mastery of the car, even when sliding sideways at considerable speeds.

High speed is what the Focus RS is all about. Fans of fast Fords have been eagerly anticipating a new RS since 2002 – and we’re pleased to report the wait has been more than worth it. This is one mean machine which transforms the Focus from family-friendly motor to a true macho beast.

Brutal power comes from a modified version of the 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine found in the Focus ST, but with 301bhp, performance is brutal – the benchmark sprint from 0-62mph takes only 5.9 seconds. And if you are lucky enough to have your own runway, you will see that it is quite capable of hitting its 163mph top speed.

Under the bonnet, a host of hi-tech gadgets means it grips the Tarmac like a second skin.

And the jewel in the crown is something called RevoKnuckle, a very clever suspension system that dramatically reduces the torque steer which was the Achilles’ heel of the last Focus RS.

Owners will quickly fall in love with the new model, because as well being a track stormer, it can also serve as daily transport. Thanks to a Jekyll-and-Hyde personality, it cruises serenely at high speed, the engine settling to a gentle hum. But as soon as the driver floors the accelerator, it once again becomes a true powerhouse, the characteristic off-beat warble of the five-cylinder engine entering the cabin.

And whatever mode you are in, two figure-hugging Recaro sports seats ensure a fabulously comfortable ride. These are part of a racy finished interior, which features carbon fibre trim and underlines the fact that the RS is no ordinary Focus. This impression is echoed by the exterior, which boasts an aggressive front end with a low splitter and deep air intakes, plus a huge boot spoiler and rally-inspired diffuser.

Jost Capito, head of the Ford RS performance division, believes this is the best RS ever – and that’s a major claim when you consider some of the great Fords that have carried the legendary badge since 1970. We’ll deliver our definitive verdict when we get behind the wheel next week. But on the basis of this exciting passenger ride, the 1,800 customers who have already splashed out £24,995 are getting a model which is worth every penny.

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

Renaultsport Mégane - Arriving at Lifestyle Renault in Sussex - Late 2009

Ghostly image confirms spirit of new Renaultsport Megane.

Renault has revealed the first official image of its hotly anticipated Renaultsport Megane, due for launch at the Geneva Motor Show on March 3rd.

The picture was first released through a special website, which is currently counting down to the official unveil.

This is the first official confirmation that Renault plans an answer to the awesome Ford Focus RS – and from these early images, it’s clear that the firm is taking the challenge very seriously.

This X-Ray like image proves the latest generation Renaultsport Mégane promises to pack plenty of style thanks to a bodykit influenced by the Trophy racer unveiled at the Paris show last year.

The front bumper is complimented by flared wheelarches, a distinctive rear wing and a centre-exit exhaust.

Lightweight 18-inch alloys will feature too, with Brembo brakes hiding behind them.

Under the bonnet, the Mégane will use the same engine as in the outgoing Mégane R26.R. Power will remain around 230hp, but torque will be boosted from 309Nm. To around 320Nm This will be connected to the front wheels via a six-speed ’box and limited slip diff.

The Renaultsport Mégane is also likely to be offered with diesel power once again, using the new dCi 180 engine as seen in the Laguna GT.

Prices will be confirmed when the car goes on sale, later this year.

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

Hammond eyes up ‘Renault Clio with a facelift’

Top Gear presenter and Mirror Motoring columnist Richard Hammond has run his critical eye over the new Renault Clio, commenting on the car’s new styling compared to its used Renault Clio predecessor.

Writing in the Mirror newspaper, Hammond said the car looked like it had been given a "facelift", with its front and rear re-styled to bring it in line with the appearances of the new-look Megane and Laguna models.

He also notes that the new Renault Clio will have built-in satnav for the first time.

The new Clio GT, which is also being unveiled at the Geneva motor show, is also put under the spotlight, and Hammond believes it will be ideal for those looking for something in between the regular Clio and the Clio Renaultsport. While there has yet to be an announcement on prices, it is thought the GT will be available for around £14,000.

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

Source [VCARS]

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

Experience the Best Used Supermini with Lifestyle Renault

Renault’s ever-popular supermini, Clio, is proving to be just as desirable as ever, winning a string of awards down the years, including being hailed as ‘Car of the Year’ 2006 and ‘Best Supermini’ at both the What Car? and recent Auto Express Awards.

Beating off all its major competitors in the Auto Express Awards, including the Honda Jazz and Fiat Grande Punto, Clio continues to impress both motorists and the judges with its wide range of engine choices, low running costs, stylish, appealing good looks and fuel economy.

One of the panel members at the recent What Car? Awards, former used car dealer turned TV presenter, Mike Brewer, was particularly enthusiastic about Clio, commenting that: “The Renault is fine looking with a great image and fun-handling. While the Jazz is a good all-rounder, the Clio is more desirable – particularly with younger drivers.”

In awarding Clio as its ‘Best Supermini’, Auto Express also said; “If you want style and a great driving experience without compromising on economy or safety, then the Clio is for you.”

Right now, it’s economy where Clio makes its mark. Still as competitively priced as ever, the Clio range has been made even more accessible, with the addition of some impressive standard equipment across the range.

Take the Clio Extreme, the entry-level point for Clio three-door, which gains front fog lights, electric front windows, CD with fingertip controls and extra-tinted windows as standard.

Extreme is available with a choice of two engines, the 1.2 16V 75 and dCi 86, priced at £7,495 and £11,145 respectively.

Motorists wanting to inject a little va-va-voom into their lives should check out the great deals on new and used Clio at Lifestyle Renault in Tunbridge Wells and Kent.

To find out more please visit Lifestyle Renault or call us on:

Tunbridge Wells: 01892 515 666

Eastbourne: 01323 737 233

Five Star Euro NCAP Rating for Mazda6

It’s official! The Mazda6 is one of Europe’s safest cars after being among the first models to achieve the five-star accolade in radically revised crash tests undertaken by the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP), the organisation that assesses the safety of new cars.

The upper medium sector model is Mazda’s best-selling fleet and user-chooser model and gaining the top safety seal of approval from Euro NCAP in the tough revised tests further underlines the car’s corporate credentials.

The Mazda6 was one of four models to achieve the top overall five-star rating covering adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, pedestrian protection and the new area of assessment, safety assist. The tests also take into account rear impact (whiplash) tests and the availability of electronic stability control (ESC). The new testing scheme requires all safety equipment, including ESC, to be standard on 85% of volume sales and at least optionally available on every variant.

ESC, which has been hailed by road safety campaigners as the most significant safety advance since the introduction of the seat belt, is standard on the new Mazda6 line-up as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS).

The news about the five-star rating for the Mazda6 coincides with the Government’s bid to drive down the number of crashes on Britain’s roads involving at-work drivers. New legislation, including the Health and Safety (Offences) Act, has been introduced to target rogue companies.

Mark Spowage, dealer principal at Lifestyle Mazda in Horsham and Gatwick, said: “Safety-focused fleet decision-makers should look for the new five-star Euro NCAP symbol which plays to the strength of the Mazda6. Fleet investment in safety starts with employees driving ‘safe’ cars. A priority for all businesses and their fleet decision-makers is ensuring that company car choice lists promote vehicles that are equipped with the very latest safety features – and that means the Mazda6.”

Accelerating Mazda to the safety forefront is the manufacturer’s lane‑change ‘Rear Vehicle Monitoring System’, which is standard on 15 Mazda6 models, from the TS2 upwards. Mazda is among one of the first carmakers to introduce such a system. Mark Spowage explained: “Our new lane-change radar system, as standard on many versions, will make Mazda6 even more attractive to fleet managers concerned to fulfil their duty of care.”

Mark Spowage concluded: “Staff are businesses most valuable asset. Therefore, ensuring employees take to the road in vehicles that are as safe as possible and equipped with the very latest safety features should be a priority. It makes financial, legal and moral sense.”

Other safety features standard on the Mazda6 include traction control with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Emergency Brake Assist; and airbags (front, side and full‑length).

The new Mazda6 line-up entered UK showrooms last month with prices starting at £14,891 on-the-road (1.8 5dr S). Fleets have a choice of three petrol engines, three diesel engines and five equipment levels. Adding further appeal is the all‑new Mazda6 2.2-litre diesel, boasting CO2 emissions below 160g/km across the range, making this engine variant an all-round wise choice to fleet managers and user-choosers alike.

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

Lifestyle Mazda in Crawley and Horsham - Your preferred Mazda Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Sussex

A Focus On Style

With its athletic stance and dynamic performance, the Focus Style is a car that can't help attracting attention.

The Focus Style is the star of the Focus range and with its gorgeous good looks this class-leading model has always been revered for its great driving dynamics, and the new Focus is no exception.

From its swept-back headlights to the 'Ford Power' engine start/stop button, all parts of the new Focus work together harmoniously. So inspirational is the Focus Style it was the focus of the extraordinary advert where an entire orchestra was crafted from parts of the beautifully arranged new Focus.

Ford’s kinetic Design direction is bold and modern. After the introduction of the S-MAX and highly successful launch of the new Mondeo, the designers at Ford were eager to apply their kinetic Design philosophy to the Focus – a car that’s known for its great driving dynamics. Every body panel on the new Focus, except for the roof, has been restyled. This dramatic makeover embraces the kinetic Design principles of energy in motion, giving the car an athletic, dynamic feel to match its agile drive.

The interior of the new Focus has been enhanced to offer greater versatility and luxurious comfort. Special attention has been devoted to the quality of the interior, with the inclusion of a number of premium finishes.

The new Focus is not shy on new features and optional extras.

Ford Easy Fuel capless refuelling stops you from putting the wrong fuel in your car

The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) can give advanced warning of tyre problems

The 230-volt power socket can be used to power electrical appliances

The new Sony entertainment system has a DAB radio* and MP3 player connectivity

ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) is now standard across all new Focus models

The new Focus ECOnetic will be the first in a new range of low CO2 vehicles

Prices for the Ford Focus Style start from £11,995. visit Lifestyle Ford now for more information

Home Straight for Lifestyle Ford Move

Plans for Redhill’s Lifestyle Ford dealership to move to upgraded premises look set to become a reality, with proposals for a new supermarket at its current Brighton Road location on show for the public later this month.

Despite some uncertainty in the global motor industry, Lifestyle Europe has been going from strength to strength and this will be welcome news to both the loyal staff at Lifestyle Ford and its valued customers, as Lifestyle Europe Limited Chairman, Marc Matthew explains:

“This is a really positive step for Lifestyle, with relocation enabling us to make a significant investment in a showroom fully equipped to provide the best customer service. It will also give us the opportunity to add multi franchised service facilities and a larger parts storage warehouse. The move has been on the cards for a number of years now and we’re really pleased to be able to demonstrate our commitment to business in Redhill at this time.”

As part of the overall regeneration of the town, Lifestyle’s Brighton Road showroom was identified as a prime retail location and Tesco is likely to submit a planning application later in the year. Its initial plans will be on display at a public exhibition scheduled for 19-21 February.

The location of the new Lifestyle Ford showroom is yet to be announced and will be dependant on a successful planning application but, as Marc adds, it’s very much business as usual, as the process will take several months to conclude:

“We are looking forward to announcing our new location but motorists can be safe in the knowledge that there will still be a Lifestyle Ford main dealer service on offer in Redhill throughout this process and the new dealership will deliver the full car and commercial sales, service and MOT facilities that our very loyal local customers are used to.”

An announcement on the new Lifestyle Ford location is expected in the coming weeks.

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

No allergies with latest used Ford Fiesta

Motorists concerned that the vehicle they drive could increase their chances of becoming ill may want to ensure they buy a used Ford Fiesta.

Ford is the only manufacturer to have its vehicles independently checked by the British Allergy Foundation, meaning that in excess of 100 materials used on each model go under the microscope.

In all, seven model ranges have been certified as being allergy tested, meaning that Ford Fiesta and Ford Focus drivers among others can be sure that their interior is allergy free.

Andy Taylor, Ford’s European sustainability director, said: “Common materials like latex, chrome and nickel can provoke allergic reactions in some people.

"Our engineers take special care to minimise or eliminate such materials, something that is confirmed in these exhaustive independent tests."

Used car drivers will not be faced with any additional costs as a result of the testing procedure.

Meanwhile, the Fiesta is set to unveil its ECOnetic offering in the coming weeks, which allow drivers to complete 76.3 miles per gallon of fuel and generate CO2 emissions of 98g/km.

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

Source [VCARS]

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

Used Ford Fiesta is a January sales leader

Motorists looking for a car that is proving popular with others should look no further than a used Ford Fiesta, according to the latest sales figures.

During January, the Ford Fiesta topped the UK sales charts for the third month in a row, while also being crowned the What Car? Car of the Year for 2009.

Sales of the Ford Fiesta increased by 28.3 per cent last month, despite the current troubled market conditions, helping Ford to sell almost one in every five vehicles during January.

The latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders also show that as well as the Fiesta, the Ford Ka and Ford Focus were sales leaders in their market segments.

Nigel Sharp, Ford of Britain managing director, said: "Our aim of prioritising retail growth is paying off, buoyed by the new Ford small car range."

He added that a used Ford Fiesta would offer a motorist "style, value and economy".

BBC television programme Top Gear believes that the Ford Fiesta is "the sort of car people buy for their daughter but then steal back when she’s out".

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

Source [VCARS]

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

Used Ford Focus drivers to see a power surge

Used Ford Focus drivers believing their current vehicle is a little short on power may want to consider upgrading to the newest model in the range.

The new Ford Focus RS, which will hit the market in the coming weeks, is said to be the fastest Ford Focus model ever, while also being the most powerful front-wheel drive vehicle ever made by the manufacturer in Europe.

Ford’s John Wheeler said: "Historically, RS models have been very different in their approaches.

"Our strategy was to define and create a new RS, with all the characteristics we wanted to see in it, rather than develop a car to compete with anything else already in the market."

The performance car is also fitted with a turbocharged Duratec RS 2.5-litre engine, specially modified by engineers.

To give the Ford Focus RS its own aggressive character, the changes made included a revised cylinder head gasket, revised pistons and larger small end bearings.

In terms of performance, used car drivers may want to know the vehicle can accelerate to 62 miles per hour from standstill in under six seconds, while reaching a maximum speed of 160 miles per hour.

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

Source [VCARS]

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

Used Ford Fiesta fans may fancy the UK’s greenest car

Many used Ford Fiesta fans may want to take a trip to their local showroom in the coming weeks as the latest vehicle from the range is due to hit the market.

Independent analysts have stated that the Ford Fiesta was the best selling car during December, with the new model set to benefit from an ECOnetic package.

This package, which provides the vehicles with greater fuel efficiency, may have already been witnessed by used Ford Focus and used Ford Mondeo drivers.

Some 500 Ford Fiesta ECOnetics have already been ordered by customers, with the vehicle allowing drivers to complete 76.3 miles to the gallon, while generating CO2 emissions of only 98g/km.

Nigel Sharp, Ford of Britain managing director, said: "The increasing number of our customers shifting into greener cars translates into meaningful reductions in automotive CO2 output."

Meanwhile, Cleangreencars.co.uk recently confirmed that the Ford Fiesta ECOnetic is the most eco-friendly family car in the UK, coming out on top among all five-seater vehicles.

To find out more about the Ford range visit Lifestyle Ford

Source [VCARS]

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

New Subaru Legacy on show

Subaru will take its Legacy concept car to the Geneva motor show next month.

The car, which was originally unveiled at the Detroit motor show in January, shows how the next Subaru Legacy saloon will look when it goes on sale next year.

Flared wheelarches and an imposing front end demonstrate more aggressive styling than on the current model.

The concept car has a 3.6-litre engine and four-wheel-drive, but European markets are expected to have a choice of 2.0- and 2.5-litre petrol engines, plus a 2.0-litre diesel.

Estates and higher-riding Outback models will join the saloon at a later date.

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

Source [WHATCAR?]

First Drives - 2009 Mazda MX-5

Japanese brand gives its drop-top favourite a makeover to celebrate its 20th birthday.

It’s hard to believe the MX-5 is 20 years old in 2009. Although Mazda isn’t officially marking the occasion, this updated version of the world’s best-selling sports car is a great way to celebrate.

It’s been given more power and the suspension settings have been revised to produce an even sportier drive.

However, the first thing you’ll notice is the MX-5’s stylish new appearance. At the front is a ‘smiling’ grille along with spotlight surrounds that borrow hints from Mazda’s ‘flowing’ themed Nagare concept cars.

Integrated side sills have been added, the tail-lights now boast a protruding design and the boot gets a lip spoiler, while 17-inch BBS rims can be specified.

Apart from the addition of an iPod socket, softer leather-like trim surfaces and a dashboard economy gauge, the car is almost unchanged inside. Recaro sports seats are optional.

However, considerable developments have taken place beneath the skin. In come stiffer new Bilstein dampers and some suspension geometry modifications that have helped lower the front end’s roll centre.

The improvements are marked. Cornering feels more precise, progressive, flatter and faster. The only downside is that the stiffer settings generate a harsher ride on bumpy surfaces.

Uprated pistons and a forged crankshaft mean the 2.0-litre engine can now rev to 7,500rpm – up from 7,000rpm – which creates an extra 8bhp and takes peak power to 170bhp. That means the 0-62mph figure drops from 7.9 seconds to 7.4 seconds, and the unit feels more responsive, especially at the top end, than before.

Engineers have also tweaked the intake manifold so the exhaust sound is more sporty, and applied a carbon coating to the gearbox to give the six-speed manual transmission an even smoother and precise shift. It all adds up to the best evolution yet and a fitting birthday present from the brand.

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

Source [Auto Express] Written by Peter Lyon

Lifestyle Mazda in Crawley and Horsham - Your preferred Mazda Dealer for New Cars, Used Cars and Car Servicing in Sussex

Focus coupé’s licence to thrill

Sensational three-door model to give new Ford range an added dose of style as it takes on Volkswagen’s Scirocco.

Here are the pictures that prove the Focus is on style at Ford like never before! It’s a new three-door Coupé version of the blue oval’s family hatchback – and it has VW’s Scirocco and Renault’s Mégane Coupe in its sights.

As we revealed in Issue 1,037, Ford has ambitious plans for the next-generation Focus range, with the first variant, the C-MAX MPV, due in 2010. According to our sources at sister magazine Auto Bild, the firm is working on a bold new look – and this Coupé will be the flagship.

As Renault has shown with the Mégane, it’s possible to offer two very different hatchbacks in the same model range with a more conservatively styled five-door that appeals to core family buyers – and a sleeker coupé-style machine for younger customers. And that’s just what this Focus aims to do.

These world exclusive pictures give the best view yet as to how the newcomer could look. It takes inspiration from the successful shape of the latest Fiesta with its lower grille, which is accompanied by bold headlights and LED spotlights.

Chunkier wheelarches and huge alloys add visual muscle, but the most head-turning features are the steeply rising waistline and angular C-pillars. At the rear is a sloping tail with neat lights, a diffuser-style lower bumper and a smart roof spoiler.

The look may be rakish, but the Focus Coupé is practical, too, with plenty of room in the rear for tall passengers.

Up front will be a new dashboard that boasts even higher quality materials than the current Focus, but the big change is a control system similar to BMW’s iDrive and Mercedes’ COMAND set-ups, which will help reduce clutter. Under the skin lies Ford’s new compact family car platform, which engineers at the company are currently developing.

Driving dynamics are key to the appeal of the Focus, and the new model will be no different with direct steering and fine body control.

The three-door will have slightly stiffer suspension settings than the five-door for more agility and driver appeal.

Power will come from Ford’s new direct-injection, turbo EcoBoost range with base models getting a 1.0-litre unit with either 89bhp or 108bhp. But most sales will come from a new 1.6-litre turbo in 148bhp or 178bhp guise.

Two new oil-burners are also on the way: a 1.6-litre TDCi with 89bhp, 108bhp or 128bhp, and a 2.0-litre with 168bhp or 197bhp. Manual gearboxes will be standard, but there will also be the option of Ford’s PowerShift twin-clutch transmission.

The Focus Coupé will arrive in late 2010, with an estate and a CC due around a year later.

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

Source [Auto Express] Written Sam Harris

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

Sharpened up Clio arrives with an all-new look and a hot GT model

Take a look at Renault's new family favourite. This is the facelifted Clio, which has been revealed here for the first time in sporty new GT guise.

The refreshed supermini lands in May with a face to match that of the new Megane and Laguna, lowering the main radiator grille below the bumper to give it the same sleek look as its bigger brethren.

The Clio outsells the next most popular Renault by two to one in the UK, but last year sales fell by over a third compared to 2007. The new GT will help stem the losses by creating a bridge between the rampant Renaultsport hot hatches and the more sensible models below.

No engines have been announced, but we’re expecting to see the 138bhp two-litre petrol and the highest power 1.5-litre diesel under the bonnet.

The GT’s suspension will be stiffer and lower compared to the regular Clio and you’ll spot plenty of visual clues to its sporting pretensions, including extensions to the sills and lower grille, and twin exhaust pipes. Inside, the seats loudly proclaim the GT status and there’s also drilled aluminium pedal covers.

Meanwhile the whole range comes with the option of cut-price in-built sat nav. Thanks to a tie-up with TomTom, the usually steep bill has been slashed to “hopefully well below £500”, according to a Renault spokesman.

The fixed system can be updated on-line via a removeable SD card and it comes with traffic warnings, speed camera locations and speed limit information. Engines are expected to follow the current line-up, dominated by the 1.2 petrol and 1.5-litre diesels. Only the lower powered diesels fall into the £35 band-B tax bracket at the moment, but that could change with the launch of the new model.

New interior trims will be offered, but any owners of the current car looking to swap will be hoping Renault has cured the misting problem highlighted by several Clio III drivers.

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

Source [Auto Express] Written by Nick Gibbs

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

Triple treat for the blue oval

Ford is celebrating as three of its models – the Focus RS, Fiesta ECOnetic and Ka – set new standards in their classes.

1. Focus RS

It’s a triple triumph for the blue oval! First up, the eagerly anticipated Focus RS has been confirmed as the UK’s most powerful front-wheel-drive production car. On sale now priced at £24,995, the RS follows in the tyre tracks of the MkI which stopped production six years ago.

Power comes from a 301bhp 2.5-litre turbo petrol engine. But this car isn’t just a chipped version of the Focus ST; there’s a catalogue of changes under the bonnet. Peak power arrives at 6,500rpm and maximum torque rises to 440Nm – a 38 per cent increase over the ST. A short-shift six-speed gearbox means the RS can hit 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of 163mph.

Other changes include a wider track, limited slip diff and advanced suspension technology that’s designed to avoid torque steer. The Focus RS is only available in green, blue or white.

2. Eco Fiesta

Britain’s cleanest new car is the Ford Fiesta ECOnetic. Green credentials including 76.3mpg fuel economy and 98g/km CO2 emissions helped it earn its title in a recent survey.

The website cleangreencars.co.uk ranked 3,600 production models by CO2 output, and the ECOnetic came top in the five-seat family car sector. The model is based on the 1.6-litre 90bhp diesel, but has a number of modifications including revised aerodynamics, new suspension and low rolling resistance tyres. The engine has also been recalibrated and there’s a gearchange indicator on the dash.

More than 500 orders have already been taken for the car, which is priced £12,445 and £12,945 for the three and five-door respectively.

3. Ka

The lowest-possible insurance group ratings have been awarded to the new Ka. The entry-level Studio model is ranked as 1E, while every other variant, including the diesel in top-spec Zetec trim, is 2E.

The firm says the rating reflects the range of safety features available on the Ka, including reinforced door beams and shielded locks.

Industry data provider CAP, one of the agencies which advises on new car residual values, had more good news for cash-strapped buyers. It said petrol models will retain 39 per cent of their value, while the diesel will keep 41 per cent. On average, that’s 14 per cent better than if you bought a MkI model now.

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

First Drives - Ford Fiesta ECOnetic

Think being green means you have to make compromises? Well, the latest Ford Fiesta aims to change your mind. This is the ECOnetic version of the brilliant new supermini – and it’s been designed to prove that small cars can be fun as well as frugal.

Packing an 89bhp 1.6-litre TDCi diesel, the ECOnetic has a tweaked ECU, low-viscosity engine oil, taller gear ratios and a dash light that tells the driver the best point to change up.

Sleeker wheel trims, low rolling resistance tyres and shorter, stiffer springs that drop the suspension by 20mm help the ECOnetic slip through the air more effectively, meaning the engine doesn’t work so hard. The results? Well, average fuel economy is a claimed 76.3mpg – and that will rise to nearly 90mpg if you stick to motorways. Then there are CO2 emissions of only 98g/km, meaning road tax is free.

On the move, the gearchange light blinks at around 2,000rpm just as the gutsy diesel delivers its peak torque of 203Nm, so you can still make swift progress by changing up early. The engine sounds a bit more rattly at low revs than the standard 1.6 TDCi, but performance is strong and refinement good on motorways, where those longer ratios keep the engined subdued.

What’s more, the stiffer springs don’t ruin the ride or upset the handling – body roll is kept in check, agility is first class and the steering is sharp and full of feel. It’s a lot of fun.

As ever, the dashboard is impressive, with neatly styled buttons and dials, while the build quality is robust. Factor in a spacious boot, good looks plus a price tag that’s nearly £650 cheaper than a Zetec-trimmed 1.6 TDCi, and you’ve got a car that’s clean, green and compromise-free.

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

Source [Auto Express] Written by Jack Carfrae

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

Renault Scenic - New MPV spied testing ahead of Geneva Show debut

Spy shots don't come much clearer than this! We've already seen leaked images from the European patent office, but now the Renault Scenic MPV has been spied without camouflage for the first time, ahead of its debut in Geneva next month.

You can clearly see the similarities with the new Megane hatch - the car on which it's based - especially at the front end with its brushed aluminium inserts and elongated headlights stretching up the bonnet. At the rear there's a conventional upright light cluster on this five-seat version - the seven-seat Grand Scenic also debuting in Geneva, will sport a wackier set of boomerang lights.

Engine-wise the emphasis is on the 1.5-litre diesels delivering up to 110bhp, and the larger 130bhp 1.9 and 150bhp/180bhp 2.0 dCi units. At least one model will emit less than 130g/km of CO2, and so cost only £90 a year in road tax from 2009.

With Renault sparkling reputation in the MPV sector expect class-leading packaging in the cabin, with hideaway rear seats in the Grand Scenic and loads of innovative storage areas. Prices are likely to start from £14,500 for the five-seater shown here and from £16,000 for the Grand.

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

Mazda 3 MPS - Fastest ever Mazda 3 targets new Focus RS

THE red-hot new Mazda 3 has finally broken cover. These are the first official images of the flagship MPS, ahead of its debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.

It uses the same 256bhp 2.3-litre turbocharged engine as the existing model – and offers a 0-60mph sprint of 6 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. Only the imminent 301bhp Focus RS has more power in the front-wheel-drive hot hatch class.

The fresh shape of the latest 3 has been beefed up with a Subaru Impreza-style bonnet scoop, deeper front and rear bumpers, a prominent boot lip spoiler and twin exhausts.

Even though it provides near-identical performance to the outgoing car, the new flagship will deliver improved economy, as well as emissions that meet Euro V regulations. This is due to subtle engine tweaks and a marginally lighter kerbweight.

Also at Geneva will be an i-stop version of the 3. It has a 148bhp 2.0-litre DISI petrol engine with a stop-start system, cutting emissions by 12 per cent to 161g/km. The green set-up is due to be fitted across the range in the coming months.

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

Source [Auto Express]

Ford’s 21% used boost!

FORD’S all-new Ka has just hit the new car market, to claims of dramatically improved retained values.

The blue oval says insurance is cheaper, cost of ownership has been minimised – and, in some cases, retained values have improved by 21 per cent!

After 1 year, A Studio model is worth 21 per cent more than it used to be. This represents a cash improvement of up to £1850.

The data, from CAP, reveals an average 1-year retained value improvement of 16 per cent. Furthermore, the 3-year improvement is 14 per cent.

The latter equates to a price boost of £1350 for Ka petrol models. They retain 39 per cent after 3 years, with the diesel holding on to 41 per cent.

CAP’s Martin Ward 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.’

Insurance groups of 1E for the Studio model will be a further boost. What’s more, every other Ka version – including the new diesel version, a variant not previously available – have a group 2E rating.

This will further trim running costs for prospective new car owners, who can buy a Ka from £7945.

Has Ford yet another new car hit that’s perfectly timed with the state of the market on its hands?

For more information about the Ford range please visit Lifestyle Ford

Source [Car Dealer Magazine]

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

15 Years of Subaru Impreza

Do you remember what you were doing in 1994? Subaru does. It was just launching the first Impreza turbo - the iconic Turbo 2000.

To celebrate 15 years of turbo Subaru Imprezas they're rolling back the years to introduce one of its strongest sales incentives ever.

At £17,998 the Subaru Impreza WRX is set to become a recession-busting time machine, as prices for the punchy 2.5-litre WRX Turbo are astonishingly rolled back to exactly the same price as the first car in 1994. That's a massive £2,100 saving on the list price.

This great offer is the last chance for UK customers to buy into the legendary turbocharged WRX brand - with its flexible, 230 PS, 236 lb ft (320 Nm) torque 'EJ25' flat-four 'Boxer' engine, married to Subaru's trusty Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive - as no more WRX Turbos will be built for sale in the UK.

In 1994, the Subaru Impreza was launched in the UK: "Providing exhilarating performance, four-wheel drive and superb handling, yet demonstrating total flexibility and practicality for everyday use." And, on the surface of things, nothing much has changed - these are still core Subaru brand values.

But, in a decade and a half of brand development by Subaru, the current Impreza WRX Turbo is a radically evolved beast from its early 'classic' predecessor - while still retaining its classic Subaru Impreza hallmarks: stunning performance from the (now 2.5-litre, not two-litre as per original) turbocharged engine, unrivalled grip from its symmetrical, low centre of gravity AWD system and ever-increasing comfort, refinement, build quality and practicality throughout.

Over the 15 years of Subaru Impreza WRX Turbos, while the car remains essentially the same in exciting feel and quirky character, there has been a successful, natural period of evolution, heralding many big changes: first and foremost, the Subaru Impreza is now a hatchback, with a shell considerably stiffer than originally designed in 1994, using the latest chassis technology. The wheel base is longer and track is far wider, providing even greater levels of 4x4 grip - working in harmony with the 17-inch wheels (16-inch upon launch), uprated, re-designed MacPherson strut front and highly sophisticated multi-link double wishbone rear suspension (new for 2008), with a heavily re-worked symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system (now with Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control).

Meanwhile, under the bonnet, power has risen from 208 bhp to just under 230 bhp, with substantially more torque on offer lower down the rev range and throughout the muscular mid-range, and with greater peak figures (210 lb ft in 1994 vs 236 lb ft in 2009), and performance increases to match.

And still offering great piece of mind and security, is Subaru's dealer-backed three-year, 60,000-mile warranty - as it was in 1994. Only now it is even better; with a 12-year anti-corrosion cover and three-year paintwork warranty as standard.

And like this incredible £17,998 price tag, unchanged since 1994, the Subaru Impreza WRX Turbo still remains a 100% focused, 100% practical, 100% addictive "drivers' car" attracting a loyal cult following of dedicated enthusiasts.

Lawrence Good, Managing Director, Subaru (UK) Ltd said: "This is the last opportunity for Subaru WRX fans to buy into the latest, best Impreza WRX Turbo model - at a price they were 15 years ago! It is one of our best dealer offers in our history - ideal in these lean times. The Impreza has evolved a great deal over the years, yet has always offered a brilliant blend of practicality and performance - unrivalled by any of its competitors - while retaining its essential character as a fun, motorsport-honed, interesting, exciting daily driver with many unique charms. We shall miss the WRX Turbo when it is gone."

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

Source [Car Pages]