MotorSearch Nov 18th - Dec 15th 2022 Issue 135

Welcome to the latest edition of MotorSearch

Putting car dealers in front of car buyers NATIONALLY

New car sales increased by 26.4% last month compared to October 2021, according to fi gures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Hybrids recorded a particularly big jump in sales, but the market is still far below what it was pre-pandem ic.

The latest fi gures from the SMMT show car sales increased for the third consecutive month in October, with total sales of 134,344 compared to 106,265 in October 2021. Despite the increase, 2022 looks set to be the weakest for new car sales since 1982, with the market continuing to struggle with supply chain issues, resulting in l ong lead times for orders and infl exible pricing.

Looking at sales fi gures across this year so far, EV and hybrid cars (plug-in and full hybrids) make up nearly a third of all car sales (32.6%), compared to just over a quarter (25.7%) over the same period last year.

Crucially, data shows that sales are healthy in age cohorts where the stock is available, with sales of fi ve-year old cars up 18% on 2019, put simply; where there’s stock, there’s sales.

There’s no doubt that the cost-of-living crisis and rising interest rates are a potential headwind for the automotive market, and we do expect to see consumer demand ease , particularly during the traditionally quieter festive period. However, current engagement levels within the marketplace remain comfortably ahead of pre-pandemic levels, so there is every reason to be po sitive.

Commenting on the most recent industry fi gures, Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “A strong October was hugely welcome, albeit in comparison with a weak 20 21, but it is still not enough to offset the damage done by the pandemic.” Commenting on the most recen t industry fi gures, he added “Next year’s outlook shows recovery is possible and EV growth looks set to continue but to achieve our shared net zero goals, that growth must accelerate and consumers given every reason to invest.”

So, whilst the world around us is uncertain, the automotive mar ket remains in a robust position to weather the potentially turbulent months ahead.

We hope you enjoy this edition of MotorSearch – now national and fully interactive.

Best wishes

Claire Fullick

Sue Fuller-Anderson

Donna Goodall

Yousuf Ashraf

Automatic driving doubles as learners shift away from manuals

Published by Motorsearch

Cardiff CF24 2SA

Company Reg No: 09631163

email: sales@motorsearch.net Tel: 029 2089 4830

Mstandard-fit automatic gearboxes.

Britain’s drivers are increasingly giving up on learning to drive manual cars

ore than one million avoid taking a manual test amid rise of EVs and and opting for automatic-only licences, according to new figures.

Data from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) for the last 10 years shows that the number of people who hold an automatic-only licence has doubled to more than one million. The shift comes amid a rise in the number of electric vehicles and as automatic gearboxes are fitted to more petrol and diesel cars.

According to the figures, the number of automatic-only licences in Britain has risen from 550,000 in 2012 to 1.1 million in 2022. Automatic licence holders now represent around 2.7% of the country’s total 41million drivers, compared to just 1.5% of the 37 million licence holders a decade ago.

The biggest annual increase came last year, when there was an 11.1% rise and comes at the same time as a massive surge in the number of drivers buying electric vehicles, which operate without a traditional gearbox. EV sales were up 76% in 2021 and have grown another 49% so far this year They now represent 14% of all new car registrations. Driving schools are also shifting towards EVs, with Red Driving School planning to switch to an all-electric learner fleet by 2025 and the AA introducing a range of EVs to its line-up. This means that students learning and sitting their test in an EV will only be able to qualify for an automatic licence.

In 2020, automatic petrol and diesel cars also outsold manual models for the first time ever as more and more car makers fit automatic transmissions as standard in search of better fuel effi ciency. While automatics were historically known to be less economical than manual versions, the latest models often provide better economy and performance than a manual.

Jessica Potts, head of marketing at BookMyGarage.com, which obtained the data, commented: “The rise in automatic-only driving licences over the past decade is no surprise when you consider the general shift towards EVs and hybrids, as well as the shift towards petrol and diesel cars equipped with automatic gearboxes.

“Some people may see the demise of the manual gearbox as a bit of a shame, but technology has moved on dramatically and now most automatics deliver improved fuel efficiency and driver convenience.”

She added that from an ownership point of view automatic transmissions had some benefits and some drawbacks compared with manuals: “When it comes to comparing maintenance costs between automatic and manual cars, it really depends on the specific car and the way it’s driven. For example, cars with manual transmissions are more vulnerable to poor driving habits especially the clutch which can be prone to wearing out and, according to our data, costs on average over £530 to replace. Automatic vehicles are more robust in this sense, but it’s worth remembering that some automatic gearboxes have set service intervals and that if something goes wrong with one, their added complexity means repairs will typically cost more than a manual gearbox repair.”

Director Donna Goodall

Tel: 07482 312435 Email: donna@motorsearch.net

Director Sue Fuller-Anderson Tel: 07983 277372 Email: sue@motorsearch.net

Online Operations & Designer Claire Fullick Tel: 07786 872057 Email: claire@motorsearch.net

Feature Writer

Yousuf Ashraf

YouTube: Ashraf on Cars Email: yousuf22tkm@gmail.com

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Opinions expressed are not necessarily of those of the publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the contents, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions. Some images may be used for illustration purposes only, please contact the advertiser for exact specifications. No infringement of copyright is intended.

5dr in red, only 11,646 miles from new

£12695 17 KIA SPORTAGE 1 1.6 petrol in black, 31,763 miles, comes with private plate £12695 68 VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.6 TURBO SRI NAV 5dr in red, 25,000 miles, fsh £11,995 19 CITROEN C3 FLAIR 1.5 HDI 5dr orange with black roof, 28,000 miles, high spec £11995 18 KIA PICANTO 3 1.2 AUTOMATIC in pop orange, 43,000 miles, sat nav, DAB etc £11495

18 RENAULT CAPTUR 1.5 DCi DYNAMIQUE S NAV in black with silver roof, 34,000 miles .................................. £11495

18 VOLVO V40 CROSS-COUNTRY 2.0D D2 in met sand, low running costs £11495

67 SEAT LEON 1.4 TSi FR TECHNOLOGY in charming purple, 47,000 miles £10995

68 PEUGEOT 208 TECH EDITION 1.2 5dr in black, 20,000 miles, 1 owner Reduced by £1000 now £10995

19 NISSAN MICRA 900 ACENTA LIMITED EDITION in met grey, 48,000 miles, high spec £10995

67 MG ZS 1.5 EXCITE in silver, 44,000 miles, apple car play, touchscreen, fsh £10995

68 VW UP BY BEATS 5 dr in black, 11,000 miles, one owner, low insurance £10995

16 AUDI A1 SPORT 1.6 TDI 3dr in white, 48,000 miles, free road tax £10495

65 BMW 116D SPORT 5dr in Met grey, 67,000 miles, £20 road tax £9995

13 BMW 320D M-SPORT CONVERTIBLE in black with black leather, 58,000 miles £9995

67 VAUXHALL CROSSLAND X ELITE 1.2 ECOTEC in white with black roof, 65,000 miles Reduced by £2000 now £9995

15 PEUGEOT PARTNER TEPEE 1.6 E-HDI HORIZON SE AUTOMATIC in met blue, 42,000 miles, fully wheelchair adapted £9995

68 RENAULT CLIO TCE ICONIC 5dr in tripple

66 HYUNDAI I30 SE BLUE DRIVE 1.4 5dr in met grey, 39,000 miles, 2 owners £9695

19 FIAT 500 1.2 LOUNGE in grey, 22,000 miles, 1 owner, glass roof and sat nav

£9495

65 NISSAN JUKE 1.6 ACENTA AUTOMATIC in black, 33,000 miles, privacy glass etc £9395

67 PEUGEOT 208 ACTIVE 1.2 5dr in met blue, 25,000 miles, low insurance £8995

13 BMW X1 2.0D M-SPORT X-DRIVE AUTO in whote with black leather and wheels, 94,000 miles £8995

14 VW TIGUAN 2.0 TDI MATCH AUTO in black with cream leather, 97,000 miles, pan-roof .................................£8995

66 PEUGEOT 208 ALLURE PREMIUM 1.2 5dr in silver, 33,000 miles, £20 road tax, pan roof £8995

68 CITROEN C1 ELLE 5dr cream with black roof, 20,000 miles 1 owner £8995

19 FIAT 500 1.2 LOUNGE in met grey, 56,000 miles, 1 owner, excellent value £8695

15 MITSUBISHI ASX 1.8 DID 4X4 in met grey with heated leather seats, 41,000 miles, sat nav etc £8695

13 MAZDA 6 SPORT NAV 2.0 petrol, 4dr in met blue with cream leather, 77,000 miles, high spec £8695

67 FORD FIESTA 1.0T ZETEC 5dr in black, 50,000 miles, low running costs £8495

66 MAZDA 2 SPORT NAV 1.5 5dr in black, 75,00 miles, 1 owner, £20 road tax £7995

16 FIAT 500 LOUNGE TWIN AIR in met red, 37,000 miles, free road tax, low insurance £7995

64 FORD B-MAX 1.0 T TITANIUM in white, 42,000 miles, 1 owner, £30 road tax £7695

14 RENAULT SCENIC 1.5 DCi X-MOD DYNAMIQUE in grenat red, 61,000 miles, sat nav etc £5995

67 MG3 STYLE VTi TECH in white, 42,000 miles, fantastic value at .....................................................................£5995

63 PEUGEOT 208 1.4 HDi ACTIVE 5dr in met blue, low mile and running costs £4995

04 MAZDA RX8 (231 PS) in velocity red with black leather, 34,000 miles, 1 local owner £4995

13 VW UP BLACK EDITION 3dr in black, 77,000 miles, £20 road tax £4995

13 FORD FIESTA 1.2 STYLE 5dr in silver, 89,000 miles, £30 road tax

08 DODGE NITRO 2.7 CRD AUTOMATIC SXTI in electric blue, 114,000 miles. 2 owners, 4x4 £4495

FINANCE

THREE REASONS TO SWITCH TO AN ELECTRIC CAR

If you’re thinking of making the switch to an electric motor, then you’ve got more choice than ever before! Plus, battery powered EVs drive faster than previously too. With the government’s focus moving from diesel and petrol vehicles to the point where sales are likely to be banned by 2030, now couldn’t be a better time to shop electric. Increasingly popular, EV manufacturers are consistently releasing new models to keep up with demand.

requires less maintenance which means no more oil changes or expensive mechanic bills when your timing belt needs replacing.

Quick Charging Time

Naturally, one of the most important considerations about purchasing an electric car is having to charge it. At the beginning of EV manufacturing, charging a vehicle used to take a long time but now it’s a di erent story. Almost all models have fast charging capabilities and, with public charging points being more accessible, you could only be waiting 20 minutes for a full tank. You also have the option of installing a home charger and although these may take longer, it’s only a matter of time before technology will speed this up.

Receive Financial Incentives

Motoring companies such as Kia, Volkswagen and Jaguar are now o ering a broad selection of electric cars to suit a range of budgets. So whether you choose a plug in city car or a more up market luxurious model, the chances are you’ll nd an option to suit your style, and wallet. If a brand new model isn’t within your reach, then consider a second hand one from around £5000 upwards. Either way, the advantages of buying an electric vehicle are many so read on to nd out more.

Cheap to Run

Despite the initial he y price tag when buying a new electric vehicle, car experts argue that buyers will save money in the car’s lifetime as refueling costs are minimal. In fact, electric cars can be up to 80% less costly than a petrol version of the same car. On average, an electric vehicle will drive between 80-90 miles per charge, making them extremely e cient. Additionally, an EV has less components and therefore

Everyone likes to save money and purchasing an electric car will help you do just that! All zero-emission electric cars qualify from a government grant worth up to £3,500 plus an additional grant towards a home charger. ere are also grants available from e O ce for Low Emission Vehicles to reduce costs further. Usually, you will receive more bene ts from insurance companies too which can include battery cover. If that’s not enough to persuade you, then consider the lower road taxes too.

Goodbye to the Guzzlers

In the next ten years, electric cars will be the most mainstream option for a more ecofriendly driving experience. Furthermore, as the advantages of owning an EV broaden, the price tag will become more a ordable so it might be time to say goodbye to your fuel guzzlers and say hello to the future of driving.

2023 Mazda MX-5 | new names – unchanged winning formula

• 2023 Mazda MX-5 features new model grade naming and the introduction of Zircon sand colour.

• The 10-model range now features Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura trim level naming.

• The 184ps 2.0-litre Homura now features red Brembo front brake callipers

Available to order now for delivery in March, the 2023 Mazda MX-5 continues the winning formula that has seen more than 24,000 fourth-generation MX-5s sold in the UK since its launch in 2015. The 10-model line-up features a new naming structure with Convertible models taking the Roadster name used elsewhere around the globe, while the line-up now features the newly named Prime-Line, Exclusive-Line and Homura trim levels.

With an unchanged engine line-up, both the Roadster and Retractable Fastback RF models come with a choice of 1.5-litre 132ps and 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G petrol engines. For the 2023 model year the 1.5-litre Roadster is available in Prime-Line and Exclusive-Line grade, replacing the SE-L and Sport models previously offered. The 184ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G Roadster is matched to Exclusive-Line and range-topping Homura grades – replacing the Sport Tech and GT Sport Tech model names.

As with the Roadster, the Prime-Line RF is powered by the 1.5-litre engine, while Exclusive-Line models can be specified with either the 1.5 or 2.0-litre engine and the range-topping Homura is exclusively matched to the 184ps 2.0-litre engine. In addition, 2.0-litre RFs in both trim levels come with the option to choose an automatic gearbox.

Updates for the 2023 Mazda MX-5 include the addition of the Zircon Sand paint colour to the MX-5 for the first time, while Homura manual models will feature red Brembo front brake callipers. With continued strong retail demand for the Mazda MX-5, the 2023 model year car is ready to order with full price and specification guides live at Mazda.co.uk.

As you’d expect for a car so famed for its dynamic abilities, the 2023 Mazda MX-5 retains the same awardwinning mechanical set up as before. Introduced in September 2018, the updated 184ps version of the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine features lighter pistons and con-rod, plus upgraded camshafts, exhaust valves, fuel injectors, throttle valve and air intake, all of which increase performance over the 160ps version that featured in the fourth-generation MX-5 at launch in 2015. As a result, the engine has a redline of 7,500rpm. In addition with higher fuel pressure and more efficient combustion than the 160ps version, there’s an increase in torque across the rev range, while peak torque rises by 5Nm.

Mazda CX-60 diesel | UK specification and pricing announced

• The Mazda CX-60 e-Skyactiv D powered by an all-new 3.3-litre in-line 6cyl diesel engine.

• Choice of 200ps or 254ps – up to 550Nm, emissions as low as 129g/km.

• 3.3-litre e-Skyactiv D engine features all-new DCPCI clean burn combustion technology.

Arriving in the UK early next year the all-new Mazda CX-60 e-Skyactiv D MHEV is available to order now. Powered by a powerful, clean and efficient all-new e-Skyactiv D diesel engine, the new model will be offered in the same Exclusive-Line, Homura and Takumi grades as the recently launched PHEV version.

The new diesel powertrain that will make its debut in the CX-60 is a Mazda first – a 3.3-litre in-line sixcylinder e-Skyactiv D diesel engine that features Distribution-Controlled Partially Premixed Compression Ignition (DCPCI) Technology. This highly innovative advanced combustion technology makes the new e-Skyactiv D unit one of the cleanest diesel engines in the world, achieving a thermal efficiency of over 40%.

Developed using the ‘right sizing’ concept which optimises displacement to improve both fuel and power efficiency, the all-new 3,283cc longitudinally installed common rail electric direct injection six-cylinder e-Skyactiv D unit will be offered with a choice of two power outputs: 200ps and 450Nm with rear-wheel drive and 254ps and 550Nm with Mazda i-Activ AWD (all-wheel drive). Featuring a new 48v Mazda M Hybrid Boost system, the all-new diesel engine combines high output with excellent fuel economy. The new DCPCI technology improves engine efficiency, emissions and fuel economy. The combination of DCPCI and Mazda M Hybrid technologies contribute significantly to the CX-60’s outstanding driving range, performance, frugal fuel consumption and low emissions.

With an entry price of £42,990, the 200ps output engine is singularly offered in Exclusive-Line trim where it is matched to rear-wheel drive, additionally Exclusive-Line can also be specified with the higher-output 254ps version of the new engine for £45,630 and here features all-wheel drive.

All Exclusive-Line CX-60s can be specified with the £1,400 Comfort Pack and £1,900 Convenience and Driver Assistance Pack ensuring there’s plenty of opportunity to tailor your CX-60. The £48,380 Homura is offered exclusively with the 254ps AWD drivetrain, as is the range-topping £50,730 Takumi grade – these cars can be specified with the optional Convenience and Driver Assistance Pack, while a Panoramic Roof is optional on Homura and standard on Takumi.

As you’d expect from a Mazda, the new e-Skyactiv D powered CX-60 delivers an impressive blend of performance and efficiency, alongside the driver focused handling, impressive comfort and high-quality found across the CX-60 range.

17 17 CITREON RELAY 2.0 HDI BLUEHDI 35 HEAVY L4H3 ENTERPRISE fsh, well done camper van conversion, 19k £39,995 13 63 BMW ALPINA F25 X3 BI TURBO XDRIVE 35D, truly a one of a kind, fastest production SUV on the market 107k £27,995 11 11 LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER 4.4 TDV8 VOGUE SE , top spec, iconic Range Rover, total luxury, 97k .................................................. £18,995

17 17 MERCEDES 200 GLA AMG LINE 7 speed 1.6 auto, petrol, good service history, alloys, sat nav, 97k £16,995 13 13 AUDI Q5 SQ5 3.0 TDI QUATTRO beautifully crafted, automatic, quality, reliability & luxury 99k £16,795 16 16 AUDI Q3 2.0 TDI QUATTRO S LINE PLUS, 1 owner, S/H, black, great family bus, really worth a look, 61k........... ..........................................£16,795 18 18 VW TIGUAN 2.0 TDI SE NAV BMT SA automatic, alloys, DAB radio, good service history, 83k £15,795 1998 (R) FORD ESCORT 1,8 GTI TURBO , ££££ spent on it and well looked after, amazing!! Only 58k £14,995 19 19 SEAT LEON 2.0 TSI SPORT TOURER suto, full heated leather, alloys, privacy glass,2 keys, 73k............................................................... £14,795 18 18 BMW X1 XDRIVE S.0D SPORT auto, full service history, 1 owner, 92k £14,695 16 16 FORD S-MAX 2.0 TDCI TITANIUM powershift, auto, 7

DISCOVERY 3.0 TDV6 HSE fmdsh, 7seats, in black, auto, perfect family car, 125k .............................................................£11,995

09 59 BMW 335D M SPORT HIGHLINE, full service history, 2 owners, £5k of extras, ultimate drivers car, 101k..........................................£10,995

12 12 VW SHARAN 2.0 TDI SE DSG auto, fsh 7 seats, just 64k, great family car ............... £10,995

10 60 LAND ROVER FREELANDER 2.2 SD4 HSE auto, black leather, belts replaced, 118k ... £9,995 15 15 CITROEN DS5 2.0 BLUEHDI DSPORT pearl white, 2 keys, automatic, rear spec, must see, 70k ................................................................ £9,795 15 15 SUZUKI VITARA 1.6 SZ5 URBAN DDIS ALLGRIP, FSH, 2 keys, DAB radio, great little car, 91k.................................................................. £9295 14 63 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN 2.0 TDI MATCH BLUEMOTION TECH 4MOTION DSG auto, in silver, 4x4, must see this great little winter car, 96k £8,995 19 68 VAUXHALL MOKKA X 1.4i TURBO ELITE NAV ECOTECH s/s, 6 speed, good history, alloys, sat nav, 90k ................................................... £8995 13 63 VW GOLF 1.6 TDI SE BLUEMOTION TECHNOLOGY 7 speed auto, one owner, FSH, £20 raod tax, 82k........................................... £8095 15 65 MINI COOPER 1.5 D SPEC blue, £0 tax, ideal 1st car or second car, new mot & service 69k £7,995 16 16 FIAT 500 ABARTH 595 1.4 T-Jet TURISMO red, cambelt changed, lovely drive, 103k .. £7,995 05 05 AUDI S4 4.2 V8 QUATTRO 4dr auto saloon, full service history,, heated red leather, mint condition 137k £7,595 15 15 FORD FIESTA 1.5 TDCI TITANIUM fsh, 2 keys, black, £0 tax, perfect 1st car, 71k ..... £7,295 16 16 FORD FIESTA 1.5 TDCI ZETEC 5 speed, manual perfect family car, fsh, £0 tax, 69k £7,295

3.0 TDI V6 ALTITUDE, AUTO, fsh, black, 4x4, perfect family car, must see 101k........................................ £6,295 08 08 AUDI A3 1.8 TFSI SPORT CONVERTIBLE Great for the summer, 88k, service history..£5,995 13 63 NISSAN JUKE 1.6 N-TEC fsh, alloys, low miles, lovely drive, perfect little car 80k ... £5,995 12 12 FORD FIESTA 1.6 S1600 in blue, special edition, fsh, 2 keys, lovely little pocket rocket 78k................................................................. £5,995 14 64 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 SE 5dr, manual, perfect 1st car, low miles just 54k.............. £5,495 10 60 FIAT 500 1.2 SPORT 3dr, alloys, low miles, perfect 1st car, only £30 tax per year 57k £5,295 13 13 SKODA FABIA 1.2 TSI MONTE CARLO TSI petrol, special edition, 1 owner, fsh 105k £5,295 15

10 60 FORD FIESTA 1.4 ZETEC 5dr, in silver, alloys, perfect 1st car, fsh, must see 75k ...£4,295 09 59 VW GOLF 2.0 TDI GT 140BHP in red, s/h, great spec car, must see, 122k ................... £4,295

10 60 FORD FOCUS 1.8 ZETEC S low mileage, fsh, a fantastic family car, 5 speed, manual, petrol, 82k......................................................£4,295

04 63 HONDA HR-V 1.6 V-TEC silver, massive spec, lovely family car 69k............................£3,995

12 62 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA 1.6I EXCLUSIVE only 2 former keepers, 7 seater family car 97k .......£3,995

06 56 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT 1.8 TDI T230

LWB P/V converted into a day van, white, worth a look for sure 116k £3,995

10 60 SEAT EXEO 2.0 TDI CR SE service history, in silver, great family car with great mpg, lovely drive must see 70k £3,995

11 60 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA 1.6 DESIGN petrol, manual, perfect family car 99k £3,995

14 63 HYUNDAI i20 1.2 CLASSIC in red, great first car, low tax, service history, 106k .............. £3,595 11 11 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 SE service history, 2 keys, great first car, drives lovely, 90k £3,495 10 10 VAUXHALL INSIGNIA 2.0 CDTI SE SPORTS TOURER SPEC, great size family car, s/h, must see, silver 136k £3,595 11 11 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 SRI Petrol, new clutch fitted recently, great first car, 77k £3,495 10 10 FORD FIESTA 1.2 ZETEC 5dr, 5 speed, manual, petrol, great little car 144k ..............£3,295 04 04 PEUGEOT 206 1.6 GTI HDI 3dr hatch, great economy, perfect 1st car, just 45k.................£2,995 08 58 VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.8 16V DESIGN E4 SPEC silver, drives very well, 71k £2,795 10 10 RENAULT CLIO 1.2 DYNAMIQUE TCE 5 speed, manual, petrol, great size family estate, cam belt done, 96k ........................................£2,695

TOP CARS FOR NEW DRIVERS

U sing industry demographics and current models, what are the options for your son or daughter’s first set of wheels.

Predicting who will buy which type of car has always been difficult for vehicle manufacturers, but nevertheless they do not make cars without knowing the target market and matching each model to specific demographic groups. There are naturally exceptions, but generally demographics play a huge part in how new models of cars are marketed. Large saloon and estate cars are usually aimed at families and are often driven by Dads. Mums tend to be less concerned with visual appeal and performance so are likely to choose MPVs or SUVs for the security that a bigger car offers. As people get older they are more inclined to drive a car that is reliable with cheaper running costs and perhaps some extra space for trips out with the grandchildren.

Stereotypes Work in the Car Industry

The young male driver is likely to go for a car which is both sporty and cool but this will depend on how much money they or their parents have available and their restrictions on what they will permit their sons to drive given safety concerns. Daughters often choose cars that are smaller and easier to drive, with phone devices and music being a priority. Naturally these are broad generalisations and stereotyping people in terms of which cars they are likely to purchase by sex or age could easily attract criticism, yet this seems to work for the

car manufacturing industry. Using these demographics and looking at vehicles currently on the market we have come up with some suggestions for parents who are thinking about purchasing a car for their sons or daughters, some of which are cheap and others less so.

Citroen DS3

The Citroen DS3 came onto the market in 2010 and since then has won many prestigious awards for its style and performance in the supermini range. French manufactured, this car was the primary model of the premium DS line. Citroen have long been renowned for their outstanding diesel and THP petrol engines both in terms of performance and running costs. The DS3 can be customised with a whole range of technology including an MP3/CD player, cruise control and LED running lights. However, the style options that are available with this car really make it a popular choice. There is a wide and diverse range of exteriors to choose from together with purchasers being able to select contrasting roof and wing mirror colours. Also available are alloy wheels and wheel caps. The DS3 sits in the more expensive end of the market but is hard to beat for style and performance.

Suzuki Swift

An absolutely fantastic supermini, the Suzuki manufactured Swift will match perfectly with the image that most young male drivers want to create. Despite

being relatively compact it does have a magnificent sporty look and the latest models have more gadgetry than the previous range. Technology includes a USB port, Bluetooth and a CD player and the style is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning of peers. With very economic running costs and a variety of engine sizes to choose from, the Swift has great performance and has attained the Euro NCAP maximum 5 stars for safety due to its ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) which is standard across the range, anti-whiplash front seats and additional safety kit.

Ford Ka

The Ford Ka has been in the marketplace for several years and is particularly popular with female drivers. Wide rear haunches defined the previous model of the Ka, but the latest model is much more dynamic and stylish, synonymous with the appearance of all recent models in the Ford range. Featuring straight lines and angles, the Ka has been redesigned with a range of options to customise the interior. With a range of engine sizes available the Ka is efficient, reliable and economic on running costs.

TIPO MULTIJET LOUNGE

in red, great condition 53k...............£7995 2009 LAND ROVER DISCOVERY XS 2.7 ESTATE in green, 156k...................... £7995 2017 FORD FIESTA ZETEC TDCI 1.5 in black with 52k, looks and drives well....£7995 2015 FORD FOCUS ZETEC S TDCI 1.5 in blue, very economical 85k................£7995 2014 RENAULT CAPTUR EXPRESSIONPLUS CONVENIENCE ENERGY TCE 1.5 44k..£7995 2015 FORD FOCUS ZETEC S TDCI 1.5 in blue, fantastic example, 85k............£7995

2016 SEAT IBIZA SE TECHNOLOGY 1.0 in blue, sat nav, £30 tax, 47k.............£7995

2016 NISSAN JUKE VISIA DCI 1.5 in black, 63k £20 tax.................................... £7995

2016 PEUGEOT 2008 ACCESS A/C 1.2 in black, only 53k, FSH.........................£7995

2019 VAUXHALL CORSA GRIFFIN 1.4 In white with 71k...................................£7995

2016 VAUXHALL ASTRA DESIGN 1.4 in blue/silver, 53k...................................£7995

2015 FORD MONDEO TITANIUM ECONETIC TDCI 2.0 in met silver 95k...........£7995

2015 FIAT 500 MULTIJET POP STAR 1.6 5dr, only 27k......................................£7695

2010 JAGUAR XF V6 S LUXURY AUTO 3.0, in blue, 62k, stunning example......£7495

2008 VAUXHALL VIVARO 2700 CDTI SWB SHR P/V 2.0 camper, 99k................£7495

2016 HYUNDAI 110 PREMIUM 1.2 in white, great spec, only 38k.......................£7495

2016 RENAULT CLIO PLAY 16V 1.2 in black, 49k...............................................£7495

2015 FORD FOCUS ZETEC TDCI 1.6 in black, DAB, alloys, £20 per year tax,. £6995

2016 DACIA DUSTER AMBIANCE DCI 1.5, in black, one owner, £30 82k............£6995

2015 VAUXHALL ADAM JAM 1.2, in red, 57k, great condition, great value...... £6995

2017 SKODA FABIA SE 1.4 in grey, superb estate, 69k, impeccable, FSH..........£6995

2011 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA 2.4 lovely example, only 27k great value...........£6995

2015 SMART FORFOUR EDITION1 1.0 5dr in met grey, park sensors, 56k.....£6995

2014 FORD FIESTA ZETEC 1.2 in met silver, great condition, 59k....................£6995

2016 CITROEN C3 BLUEHDI EDITION PICASSO 1.6 in met red, £20 tax 65k....£6995

2011 FIAT SCUDO COMBI SWB MULTIJET 1.6, private plate included, 75k........£6995

2016 DACIA DUSTER AMBIANCE DCI 1.5 5dr in met black, one owner, 82k....£6995

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Is it the end of the road for the iconic Ford Fiesta?

Britain’s most popular car is set to be ‘axed’ after 46 years and 4.8million sales, with no electric model in the works ahead of 2030 ban on new diesel and petrol vehicles sales

* Ford Fiesta, the most common car on Britain’s roads, is expected to be scrapped after 46 years of production

* Since it was launched in 1976 there have been 4.8million UK sales and it has featured in James Bond flm

* Ford has no plans for an electric version of its existing £19k Fiesta, which could see it axed as early as 2023

* The Fiesta had been the nation’s most-bought new car for 12 consecutive years from 2009 to 2020

Britain’s most popular car, the Ford Fiesta, is expected to be scrapped by the company after 46 years of production and 4.8million sales, according to an insider.

Ford is instead opting for more electric models, as the UK government’s ban on new petrol and diesel car sales is set to be introduced in 2030. The manufacturer has no plans for an electric version of its £19,000 hybrid 2022 Fiesta, meaning the latest model could mark the end of the road for the iconic supermini, the Sun reports.

This means the fve door hatchback is likely to be withdrawn from sale in the coming years, with the three-door vehicle already scrapped in the spring.

An insider described the move as a ‘strategic decision’ by

the company to move its style more towards crossovers as it embarks on its electric future.

A briefng is expected to be held this week among select parties to discuss the demise of the Fiesta with an offcial announcement said to be imminent.

The brand’s electrifcation of its model line-up could see the car removed from showrooms as early as the middle of next year, according to some reports.

In October 2020, Ford confrmed it had culled all diesel-engined versions of the Fiesta from its line-up for good as demand for oil burners continued to decline following the dieselgate scandal in 2015. Fiestas are widely considered Britain’s favourite model and had 12 consecutive years as the number one

bestseller from 2009 to 2020. It was knocked off the top spot last year by the Vauxhall Corsa, with Ford opting to prioritise its commercial vehicle production on the back of higher demand during parts supply shortages resulting from the Covid pandemic.

DVLA records for last year showed that of the 39.2million licensed vehicles of all types on the road in Great Britain, 1.54million were Fiestas. The larger Focus was second with 1.3million on UK roads in 2021. There have been seven generations of the popular car since it was launched in the summer of 1976. The same year, a Fiesta appeared alongside Roger Moore in James Bond flm The Spy Who Loved Me.

Other celebs associated with it include two-time Academy award-winner Renee Zellweger, who is said to drive one, and Idris Elba, who worked on the Fiesta plant for two years before he found fame. The car was built at a plant in Dagenham until 2002, before production moved to Germany. But SUV-style cars are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, with the British-manufactured Nissan Qashqai rising up car sales to a close second behind supermini Vauxhall Corsa.

Ford appears to be increasingly seeing larger models as the way forward commercially, as sales of SUVs reached a record high of 45 per cent of global car sales last year.

A surge in electric car sales has also taken place, with a record 28 per cent of car sales battery-powered last year.

Ford is certainly going green, with four new batterypowered cars and fve vans set to come in by 2024.

The Mustang Mach-e is already on sale while a Puma EV and two mid-size crossovers are expected to follow - though electric Fiestas have reportedly been ruled out. New electric models will be produced as part of Ford’s recent partnership with German powerhouse Volkswagen, which will see the two automotive giants work on joint projects for electric cars and vans. The frst of the two new crossovers It will be built at Ford’s new electric-only state-of-the-art manufacturing centre in Cologne, Germany, and should be in production and on sale from next year.

Ford promises it will have a

full-charge battery range of 500km (311 miles) and its name will be revealed later in 2022.

VW’s ID.4, with the 77kWh Pro Performance battery, has a claimed range of 320 miles. The second EV model - also produced in Cologne - will follow in 2024, which is being described as a ‘sports crossover’ - likely a coupe version of the SUV arriving a year before.

The Ford Puma EV - a fully-electric version of the existing compact SUV - will arrive in 2024 and be built at the brand’s manufacturing plant in Craiova, Romania

There is already an electric version of Ford’s iconic Transit vans, with a smaller E-Transit Custom coming soon and another two batteryonly commercial vehicles to arrive in the next two years.

The company axed its Mondeo model earlier this year and production will cease on the popular Ford Focus family hatchback in 2025.

A spokesman said: ‘Ford is changing and we are looking at all possibilities for our future portfolio of all-electric vehicles.’

Ford has faced major supply chain issues in recent months and was even forced to temporarily stop Fiesta orders in June due to supply chain issues. A shortage of semi-conductors hit the car manufacturing industry this year, with widespread supply chain diffculties also exasperated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Neither the Fiesta nor the Ford Focus have appeared in the list of best-selling cars in the UK this year. However, the Puma SUV - which shares a platform with the Fiesta but is higher off

the ground - is the nation’s third most-popular new passenger car with 27,680 registrations by the end of September, which is around 1,500 fewer than the Corsa in the number one spot. Meanwhile, Ford’s Transit Custom remains by far Britain’s best-selling vehicle, with more new versions hitting the road in 2022 than even the Corsa. Some 33,564 Transit Customs have been bought this year compared to just 29,342 examples of the Vauxhall supermini. A further 25,178 units of the larger one-tonne Transit have been registered this year. A ban on new diesel and petrol car sales from 2030 was announced by Boris Johnson’s government as part of its wider plan for a ‘green industrial revolution’ in November 2020. The measure is a major part of ministers’ efforts to meet the target of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Earlier this month, Transport Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan doubled down on the ban, saying it will go ahead. The decision comes despite concerns that a global shortage of computer chips since the start of the pandemic - as well as problems producing enough batteries - could impact the growth of the electric vehicle market. Earlier this year, the Department for Transport set out a proposed timeline for a Zero Emission Vehicle mandate (ZEV), which scheduled for 22 per cent of manufacturers’ new car sales to be zero emissions by 2024, rising to 33 per cent in 2026, 52 per cent in 2028 and 80 per cent in 2030. There are similar targets for the sales of zero emission vans.

MOBILE USE WHILE DRIVING RISKS LIVES

Mobile phones are now such a part of our lives that for most of us they’re the last thing we see at night and the frst thing we look at in the morning.

Our addictive relationship with the gadget has grown in proportion to the apps we rely on to direct our daily lives - not all of which are to our beneft. The dangers of using a mobile while driving are well documented and do attract very heavy fnes and penalties as well as higher insurance premiums for those convicted. Yet research shows that despite the practice being illegal since 2003, three quarters of British drivers see others using mobile phones on some or most journeys, while a quarter regularly spot drivers using their mobiles. And it’s not just talking that’s the problem - some drivers are texting, emailing, Tweeting, updating their social networks or taking photographs on the move.

Digital Rubber Necking

The AA/Populus poll of nearly 21,000 drivers found 42 per cent say they used a hand-held phone in the car even though nearly two thirds admitted it distracted them from driving. Some 20 per cent confessed to texting behind the steering wheel, four per cent admit to checking emails and two per cent have sent emails or read Twitter or Facebook updates on the move. Another worrying and morbid development is the advent of ‘digital rubber neckers’ - drivers who feel the need to use their phones to flm or photograph serious crashes on the motorway, said the motoring organisation. In one incident on the M1 in Northamptonshire, police recorded 80 drivers using their phones or cameras to photograph emergency services carry out a four-and-a-half-hour rescue of a woman trapped in her crashed truck. The seriously injured driver was eventually fown by air ambulance to hospital and survived the crash. The police have contacted most of the drivers to warn them about their illegal and irresponsible behaviour but have not brought any prosecutions.

Drivers

need to concentrate on driving rather than be distracted by their digital technology. Our research shows that some drivers are now using their smart phones for more than talking on the move. It is really not smart to talk, text or tweet on the move. Digital rubber neckers who photograph crashes really are morbid voyeurs who should be concentrating on the road not the victims of crashes. It beggars belief that these macabre motorists should put their lives and others at risk through their lust for twisted metal. We would like to see the police target more mobile phone abusers so that the message gets out that it is not worth hanging on the telephone while driving.

AASpokesperson

Put Your Phone Away

Road safety charity Brake’s campaign urging drivers to put their phones out of sight and out of mind while driving warns that using a phone behind the wheel can lengthen reaction times to a similar extent to drink driving, signifcantly increasing the risk of crashing. The charity says unlike other types of deadly risk-taking, men and women - young and old - are almost equally guilty of using their phone behind the wheel, showing widespread misunderstanding of the dangers.

Use a phone while driving and you are taking a horrendous risk with your own life and the lives of others. Many drivers who wouldn’t dream of drink-driving are using phones while driving, oblivious that the effect on your reaction times can be similar. We’re urging people to drive smart, recognising that phone use at the wheel can and does destroy lives, and no call or text is ever that important. If you need to use your phone urgently, pull over somewhere safe frst: it’s as simple as that.

Spokesperson for Brake

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