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IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE SUV BUYERS' GUIDE 2013 • EVENT: Ford's new models • LAUNCH PAD ECONOMY RUN: Honda Civic 1.6 Diesel • TYRES: Goodyear Dunlop celebrates Volume 11. No. 2. Summer 2013

Fleet Car Summer 2013

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Page 1: Fleet Car Summer 2013

IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

SUV BUYERS' GUIDE 2013 • EVENT: Ford's new models • LAUNCH PAD

ECONOMY RUN: Honda Civic 1.6 Diesel • TYRES: Goodyear Dunlop celebrates

Volume 11. No. 2. Summer 2013

Page 2: Fleet Car Summer 2013

Introducing the all new Mazda 6. Designed to combine style, efficiency, and performance to create

an unparalleled driving experience. And it’s not just us that thinks so given that the Mazda 6 was the D segment winner

at this year’s Fleet Car awards. The Mazda 6 delivers incredibly low CO

2 emissions of 108g/km along with exceptional driving style and

performance. And with Mazda’s new I-ELOOP system which stores energy under braking, you can save up to 10% on your fuel costs.

To speak with a Mazda fleet representative please email: [email protected]

ALL-New M{zd{ 6. A story that defies convention.

www.mazda.ie

The Award Winning Mazda 6

Page 3: Fleet Car Summer 2013

4 AwardsReport & Pictures from the second annual Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013

6 Launch PadFeaturing new Audi A3 Saloon, 3 new Mercs & the Peugeot 2008

8 News• ACEA welcomes e-Call • Enterprise Rentals expands • SEAT Appointments • Hyundai gets serious on fl eets • Ford Kuga fl eet launches Promo + Junction Box

10 EventFord moves up the EU Premier League

12 Economy RunGetting the best fuel return from the Honda Civic Diesel

14 Buyers’ GuideFleet Car SUV Buyers’ Guide 2013

20 LubricantsTechron Works

22 AwardsPart two of the Report & Photos from the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013

27 TyresGoodyear Dunlop celebrates 125 years

28 Fleeting Shots• Reading Matters: Review of The DeLorean Story • Easytrip & The Guide Dogs plus Peugeot presents to LIT

30 TestDrive Report: Kia Sorento

www.fl eetcar.ie

www.fl eetcar.ie | 3 Contents Summer 2013

Fleet Transport/ Fleet Car/ Green Fleet

Management/ Fleet Van & Utility/ Fleet

Bus & Coach/ Fleet Trailer & Body Builder/

Fleet Maritime are published by JJDS

Publications Ltd. Registered Offi ce: D’Alton

Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.

Co. Reg. 368767

Directors: Jarlath Sweeney, Sean Murtagh.

Disclaimer: Fleet Car Magazine management

can accept no responsibility for the accuracy

of contributed articles or statements

appearing in this magazine and any views

or opinions expressed are not necessarily

those of Fleet Transport management,

save where otherwise indicated. No

responsibility for loss or distress occasioned

to any person acting or refraining from

acting as a result of the material in this

publication can be accepted by the

authors, contributors, Editors or publishers.

The Editor reserves the right to make

publishing decisions on any advertisements

or editorial article submitted to the magazine

and to refuse publication or to edit any

editorial material as seems appropriate to

him. Professional legal advice should always

be sought in relation to any specifi c matter.

Fleet Car Magazine

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Co. Mayo, Ireland.

Tel: +353 (0)94 9372819/ 9372826

Fax: +353 (0)94 9373571

Email: enquiries@fl eet.ie

ISSN: 1649-9433

www.fl eetcar.ie

Editor: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie

Deputy Editor: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fl eet.ie

Contributors: Gerry Murphy

Photography:

Jarlath Sweeney, Gerry Murphy, Cathal Doyle,

Paul Sherwood, Headline Auto, Newspress

Administration: Orla Sweeney, Denise Vahey,

Paula Mullarkey

Advertising: Mary Morrissey

Design: Eamon Wynne

P8P8

P10

FLEET SAFETY SERVICES

Call us today for more information:Dublin 01-8955755 | Cork 021-4626129 | Galway 091-507517

www.nifast.ie

Nifast Fleet Safety Services can advise and assist employers in the many practical

methods of managing the risks posed to their employees during the course of their work.

Some of the services Nifast Fleet Safety Services provide are:

Decision Driver Training

Pre-Employment Assessments

Vehicle Type Familiarisation

Post-Incident Support Training

Off-Road All Terrain 4 x 4

Shunter Operator Training

Banksman/Signallers Course

Staff Safety Briefings

Fleet Risk Management Briefing

Vehicle Risk Assessments

Driver CPC

Page 4: Fleet Car Summer 2013

4 | AWARDS

T he signifi cance of the fl eet sector in the Irish motor industry and the car brand’s fl eet strategy were in focus at the presentation of the second annual Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013, held at Johnstown House Hotel,

Enfi eld, County Meath. Over two days, the 27 shortlisted cars from 7 categories were assessed by the expert adjudication panel with the winners revealed at the Fleet Networking Luncheon. Volkswagen, BMW, Skoda and Audi were successful again with Mazda joining them on the victor’s podium for the fi rst time.

Prize ceremony compere Mark Richardson presented some interesting statistics relating to the importance of the fl eet car sector to the overall annual new car registrations. “Of the 2.4 million vehicles in ownership in Ireland almost 200,000 of these are dedicated company cars. On average 48% of all new cars sold here are from the fl eet sector, which signifi es that this business element of the motor industry is very important.” Relating to potential company car replacements, Mark stated from the Motorcheck.ie data that almost 6,200 2009/2010 one owner cars are still registered to companies and that these are expected to be due for renewal this year.

Before introducing the contenders on the shortlist for this year’s Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car programme, Mark outlined some details on the criteria involved. Car brands were asked to submit their fl eet policy, outline what safety enhancements were fi tt ed on their company cars as standard and whether they provide driver training. Marks were awarded to the car’s styling, quality, engine and driving performance, equipment levels, safety, residuals and running costs.

Cathal Doyle, Deputy Editor, Fleet Car Magazine was impressed with the list of winners in the 2013 Awards. “From the shortlist it was good to see some diff erent brands as serious contenders as they had new cars launched during this year. In the C-Segment, for example, 4 out of 5 shortlisted were new generation models and to indicate just how close the contest was just 14 points separated the second placed car from the fi ft h.” “Each category was almost as close,” he added.

Shane Teskey, Managing Director, Motorcheck.ie was pleased with the success of the second running of the event. “Congratulations to all of the winners and shortlisted candidates. Compliments also to the adjudication panel for their intense work over the past six weeks. And thanks to our associate sponsors Bridgestone, Fast Fit and Nifast for their support. Special thanks also to the Automotive Team for their invaluable assistance. Our focus this year was on the emphasis the car brands pay to the safety of the professional driver and from equipment levels specifi ed, they are heading in the right direction.”

Fleet Strategy & Safety highlighted at 2013 Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards*Accolades for fi ve brands in seven categories

Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013 Category Winners and Adjudicators Comments:C - Segment: Volkswagen Golf“Best in class, excellent and magnifi cent,” were just some of the comments by the judges. Another said that the driver ergonomics were superb.

D - Segment: Mazda 6“Stunning looks, lovely drive and smooth ride. Ample boot space.”

D - Segment Premium: BMW 3 Series“Driver ergonomics very good. Excellent handling. Build quality top notch. Best 3 Series ever.”

Estate: Skoda Superb Combi“Sound drive and performance. Still remains the class leader for space and load carrying capabilities.”

Estate Premium: BMW 5 Series Touring“Beautiful looking car and wonderful to drive.” Another reviewer said, “A perfect all-round car.”

Executive: BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe“Ultimate combination of performance and style. Could well be considered a BMW fl agship.”

Luxury: Audi A8“Chauff eurs choice. Proved its worth over the two-day test. Th e car to desire. Excellent combination of build quality and driving pleasure.”

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

Page 5: Fleet Car Summer 2013

www.fl eetcar.ie

AWARDS | 5

FINAL RESULTS (AFTER APRIL APPRA ISAL) Position C-Segment Pts D-Segment Pts D-Segment

PremiumPts Estate Pts Estate

PremiumPts Executive Pts Luxury Pts

1 Volkswagen Golf

1821 Mazda 6 1740 BMW 3 Series

1830 Skoda Superb Combi

1766 BMW 5 Series Touring

1879 BMW 6 Gran Coupe

1974 Audi A8

1816

2 Volvo V40 1642 Skoda Superb

1736 Audi A4 1779 Mazda 6 Tourer

1731 Audi A6 Avant

1775 Audi A6 1824 BMW 7 Series

1815

3 Skoda Octavia

1640 Hyundai i40

1698 Citroen DS5

1457 Hyundai i40 Tourer

1707 Jaguar XF Sportbrake

1541 BMW 5 Series

1807 Jaguar XJ

1584

4 Ford Focus 1639 Volkswagen Passat

1686 Volkswagen Passat Estate

1695

5 Seat Leon 1628 Honda Accord

1550 Opel Insignia Sport Tourer

1656

MOTORCHECK.IE FLEET CAR AWARDS 2013 - SHORTLIST AND FINAL RESULTS

C-Segment D-Segment Premium

D-Segment Premium

Estate Estate Premium Executive Luxury

Ford Focus Honda Accord Audi A4 Hyundai i40 Tourer Audi A6 Avant Audi A6 Audi A8Seat Leon Hyundai i40 BMW 3 Series Mazda 6 Tourer BMW 5 Series

TouringBMW 5 Series BMW 7 Series

Skoda Octavia Mazda 6 Citroen DS5 Opel Insignia Sport Tourer

Jaguar XF Sportbrake BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe

Jaguar XJ

Volkswagen Golf

Skoda Superb Volkswagen CC

Skoda Superb Combi Audi A4 all road Audi A5 Sportsback

Porsche Panamera

Volvo V40 Volkswagen Passat

Volvo S60 Volkswages Passat Estate Volvo XC70 Jaguar XF Lexus LS 600h

Hyundai i30 Opel Insignia Ford Mondeo Estate Honda Civic Suburu Legacy Suburu Legacy Estate BMW 3 Series Ford Mondeo Toyota Avensis TourerVolkswagen Jett a

Peugeot 508 Peugeot 508 SW Estate

Citroen DS4 Toyota Avensis Kia Ceed SW

AUDIChristian Gussen, Managing Director of Audi Ireland, commented: “We are delighted to have won the prestigious luxury category at this year’s awards. Th is accolade is testament to the outstanding quality, innovation and premium design of the Audi A8 and we are delighted to see this model being recognised for its excellence in luxury fl eet travel.”

BMW IRELAND“We’re delighted that the BMW 3 Series, the BMW 5 Series, and the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé have won awards at the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013.

We’re particularly proud, as these awards are based not only on the quality of our cars, but also on the service and support provided to corporate customers by BMW. Plus, this latest success comes hot on the heels of being voted the most reputable and trusted organisation in Ireland. Seems like if it’s worth winning, we’ve won it!”

MAZDA MOTOR IRELAND“Th e all-new Mazda6 was announced as the winner of D Segment category at the 2013 Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards, fi ghting off tough competition from Honda, Hyundai, Skoda and Volkswagen.

Accepting the award, Richard Molloy, Marketing & PR Director, Mazda

Ireland, said: “We are delighted the all-new Mazda6 has been chosen as the large saloon car of choice within the fl eet sector. Beneath the stunning design package, it’s Mazda’s SkyActiv Technology that deliver real world savings for fl eet drivers. Th e Mazda6 delivers a best in class package of 108g/km CO2, 67mpg and 150ps from the clean diesel engine.”

SKODA IRELANDAccepting the award, Robert Guy, Head of Sales, ŠKODA said, “We are delighted that the ŠKODA Superb has been recognised this year, as the estate car of choice within the fl eet sector. Th e Superb Combi is one of the roomiest cars in this segment combining class-leading rear seat leg room with 633-litres of luggage space, expanding to 1,865-litres with the seats folded”.

Robert added, “Th e Superb range, available in both two-and four-wheel drive, is competitively priced. ŠKODA aims to sell 5,000 cars in 2013 with the Superb model range expected to account for 19% of this.

VOLKSWAGEN“We are delighted that the Golf has received even more recognition following the World and European Car of the Year titles. Th e Fleet business is increasingly important to us here in Volkswagen and we are delighted to win such a prestigious title,” said Paddy Comyn, Head of PR for Volkswagen Group Ireland.

What the victorious brands said at the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013

Page 6: Fleet Car Summer 2013

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

6 | LAUNCH PAD

The popular Irish saloon market is to welcome a newcomer in the shape of

the Audi A3 sedan this autumn. It will off er more boot capacity than the Sportback but with the same level of cabin space. Th e fi rst ever booted A3 begins the Vorsprung durch Technik brand’s foray into the world’s largest market segment – the compact saloon class. 28% of Irish cars sold in 2012 were saloons, and it remains the largest segment in Irish motoring

Th e four-door car has a 2.64 metre long wheelbase and an overall length of 4.46

metres. Th e boot’s carrying capacity amounts to 425 litres with the seats up – 45 litres more than the A3 Sportback. Th is capacity can be increased by folding down the split rear seat

backs. Two TFSI petrol engines and one TDI will power the A3 Saloon range initially – 1.4 TFSI 125hp, 1.4TFSI 140hp Cylinder on Demand (CoD) and 2.0 TDI 150HP. Depending on the engine chosen, the standard transmission is either a manual six-speed or the S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox.

Following the launch of the new saloon model series, Audi will introduce the top model – the S3 2.0 TFSI Saloon, which produces

300hp and 380 Nm of torque. Jarlath Sweeney

Audi to take Irish Saloon motoring to a new level

Mercedes-Benz’ comprehensive model overhaul shows no sign of abating, with the arrival of three

further new models on to the Irish market, the CLA, E-Class Coupé, and the E-Class Cabriolet.

All-New CLAOf the three, the CLA will be instrumental in att racting new customers to the Mercedes-Benz brand, particularly in the fl eet sector. A good-looking and stylish four-door saloon, it is one of ten new models being launched by

the company over the next four years without predecessors. Derived from the new A-Class, the CLA’s coupé-like looks take distinct design cues from the brand’s bigger CLS model. Prices start from a competitive €29,900 for the 1.6-litre CLA 180 BE petrol model. Also available now is a 2.2-litre CLA 220 CDI diesel automatic priced at €39,000, while arriving later in the summer will be a CLA 200 CDI diesel priced at €34,900 followed next year by the CLA 180CDI at €32,250.

E-Class family expandsFollowing on from the launch of the revised E-Class Saloon and Estate are two further additions to the family, the Coupé and Cabriolet models. Both cars feature the redesigned front end, new all-LED headlamps, new front bumpers with large air

intake vents, chrome body detailing and sports grille, as well as updated instrument cluster and restyled centre console on the inside.

A choice of six petrol and three diesel engines will be available with the 220CDI expected to be the volume seller in Ireland. Prices start from €47,360 for the E-Coupé, with the E-Cabriolet 220CDI available from €55,940.

Cathal Doyle

Peugeot is about to enter the highly competitive and growing Compact Crossover segment

with the new 2008. Based on the award winning 208, at just 4.16 metres long, the 2008 combines the driving characteristics of a hatchback with the strengths of an SUV to allow space, modularity and comfort. Equally at ease in town as on the open road, the 2008 will suit a diverse spectrum of customers.

Th e 2.54m wheelbase means generous room for every occupant of the 2008, while the boot is exceptionally spacious considering the car’s compact dimensions. Th e fl oor comes with fi ve recessed rails, which run from the sill to the front seat backs. Six chromed hooks allow items to be secured safely. Th ere is a storage area on each side, with

a retaining strap and net. Folding the 60:40 split rear seats boosts storage volume from 360 to 1,194 litres, (22 litres under the fl oor). One press of the butt on at the top of the rear seat back is all it takes to fold the seat, as the base

cushion retracts automatically.

A new Grip Control system, patented by the PSA Group and first seen on the 3008, is available, to set a new standard in the segment. Grip Control optimises traction in low-grip conditions, adapting to the terrain by acting on the front wheels and using the electronic components already present on the vehicle. Th e driver can decide at any time to move from Standard mode using the dial located on the centre console, choosing instead Snow, Off -Road, Sand or ESP Off .

Th e engine line-up for Ireland includes as follows: 1.2 VTi 82bhp petrol, and a choice of diesels from the 1.4 HDi 68bhp to the 1.6 eHDi Stop Start 115bhp.

Jarlath Sweeney

Three new Mercedes-Benz models hit Irish roads

Peugeot enters compact SUV Crossover segment

Page 7: Fleet Car Summer 2013

Ford Mondeo, now at lower prices.

From€23,950Model shown for illustration purposes only. Model shown is the Ford Mondeo Titanium

which starts at €30,070 and may contain optional extras. The Ford Mondeo Graphite

4 Door 1.6TDCi is the model which costs €23,950. Price is ex-works and excludes

delivery and related charges.

Page 8: Fleet Car Summer 2013

8 | NEWS 1

Enterprise rent-a-car enhance services with more 7-day openings

To provide greater f lexibility and choice to businesses, tourists and the replacement car market, Enterprise

Rent-A-Car has opened three of its 22 branch network in Ireland for seven days a week. Th is will allow customers, to acquire vehicles on a Sunday to bett er fi t their requirements and schedules. It follows a successful trial in 2012 at 14 locations throughout the UK, which saw a hugely positive response from both corporate and private customers. Th is demand has prompted Enterprise to expand seven-day opening to a much wider section of its branch network and to include Irish branches. Th e three locations in Cork Enterprise Rent-A-Car Cork, Galway Enterprise Rent-A-Car Galway and Th e Long Mile Road, Dublin Enterprise Rent-a Car Long Mile Road Dublin, have been specifi cally selected by Enterprise due to their proximity to highly populated business areas and commuter belts. Th is initiative is in addition to Enterprise’s Dublin Airport branch, which

already operates a seven-day week. George O’Connor, Managing Director for Enterprise Rent-a-Car Ireland (pictured), commented, “It’s not just airport branches that need to service customers seven days a week. Th e ability to return vehicles on a Sunday rather than waiting until Monday will naturally help businesses to further control their travel costs, while customers who need rental vehicles urgently for Monday will be able to acquire them immediately. It off ers an even more fl exible approach to car and van hire.”

Volvo revamps line-up“Th e new features in the new Volvo S80, V70 and XC70 are based on our human-centric approach, which has been a Volvo hallmark for more than 85 years. Th ey take the elegant sophistication of our largest models to a new level,” says Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President, Product Strategy & Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Car Group. He continues: “We pave the way for our future model line-up by bringing the three models visually closer to each other. Th e renewal is one of the most extensive in our history, with the main focus on improved quality and att ention to detail.”

He continued: “Th e S60 and XC60 are our best-selling models in several important markets, and the innovative V60 Plug-in Hybrid has got off to a fl ying start. We have been listening very carefully to our customers in order to make improvements that ensure that we make these successful cars more att ractive.”

New SIMI PresidentPaul Linders, Dealer Principal of Toyota dealership, Linders of Chapelizod, Dublin 20 has been appointed as the new President for SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry) at their 60th AGM in Croke Park. Mr. Linders succeeds Alan Lyons.

Th e family business, celebrating 75 years in business this year, is expanding with the opening of a new Renault and Dacia dealership in Finglas, North Dublin. Paul’s Grandfather, Sonny Linders started a repair garage in Smithfield in 1938. In 1973 Linders became the fi rst Toyota dealer in Ireland and in 2002 the dealership moved to Chapelizod.

New Volvo Car Ireland MDVolvo Car Corporation has announced Adrian Yeates as the new Managing Director of Volvo Car Ireland, where he worked as Acting MD since last year.

Having started with Volvo Car Ireland in 1997 as Field Sales and Marketing Manager, he has held senior positions in Product, Sales and Marketing Communications before his move to Head of Sales in 2010. Adrian holds an honours degree in International Marketing & Languages from Dublin City University and is a member of the Marketing Institute of Ireland.

As the automobile industry is committ ed to drastically reducing the number of deaths involving motor vehicles,

the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) welcomes the legislative proposal on eCall published by the European Commission, and calls on all stakeholders to work together to deliver safe, aff ordable motoring on Europe’s roads.

“eCall has the potential to save lives by shortening reaction time, enabling emergency services to respond as rapidly as possible within the ‘golden hour’ aft er an accident,” stated ACEA Secretary General, Ivan Hodac.

Any public eCall service must be pan-European and available to all customers before the system becomes obligatory. To work properly therefore, EU infrastructure must be ready and able to receive eCalls. “Th roughout the development process ACEA has consistently outlined the importance of parallel contributions from all stakeholders,” added Mr Hodac. “Everyone and everything has to be in place for it to work.”

Accordingly, other stakeholders must uphold their commitments to the technology, Public

Service Answering Points (PSAPs) must be ready in all EU Member States, and Mobile Network Operators need to be prepared before in-vehicle systems are enforced.

Th e current proposal does not specify the eCall system’s precise technical requirements, which would be expected in a subsequent Delegated Act in 2014. “Th e automobile industry is very concerned that the proposed October 2015 entry into force does not respect the 36 month lead-time that the industry will need to implement the technical adaptations, as recommended in CARS 2020,” stated Mr Hodac. “Also, considering the Member States’ requirement for working infrastructure to be in place, the time needed for legislative procedure and the need to assess the technical and legal challenges, this target date is highly ambitious.”

Industry welcomes life-saving eCall proposal

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

New Fleet Manager at SEAT IrelandSEAT Ireland has just appointed John Granby as its new Fleet Manager for the Volkswagen Group owned company based at Liff ey Valley, Dublin. Former Fleet Manager, Mark Brady has now become Business Development Manager at SEAT Ireland with Neil Dalton moving from Audi Ireland to Head of Marketing & Product for the Spanish brand.

Page 9: Fleet Car Summer 2013

NEWS 11 | 9

As a direct result of exceeding its customers’ expectations, Hyundai Ireland as Ireland’s fastest growing

car brand, is working on establishing the Korean brand as a key player in the Irish fl eet and corporate business sector. Th e company has produced a dedicated Fleet Guide outlining its off ering in this area. According to Darragh Brennan, National Fleet Manager, “Hyundai Ireland’s fl eet policy will provide fantastic TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), but also the very best aft ersales care.”

“As part of our comprehensive fl eet programme, we are able to off er all our customers a fi nance solution tailored to suit individual needs,” he added.

Hyundai Ireland’s industry leading 5 year triple care package (and aft ermarket packages) is available to the fl eet sector, include a 5 years unlimited mileage warranty that is manufacturer backed, 5 years AA cover and 5 years vehicle health check.

Th e commercial vehicle range comes with 3 years triple care – 3 years 100,000km warranty, 3 years AA cover and 3 years vehicle health check.

Hyundai has developed a network of dedicated Fleet Business Centres across Ireland located in Hyundai dealerships. Each Fleet Business Centre serves local business needs with specially-trained staff that are able to handle fl eet sales and aft ersales requirements. Fleet Business Centres are geared up to save fl eet customers time and money by looking aft er their servicing needs with

centralised invoicing, extended opening hours and the provision of courtesy cars.

On the fl eet proposition, Darragh further explained; "Th e expansion of Hyundai’s model range has seen a widening of its fl eet appeal with the brand now off ering an outstanding selection of cars suitable for all career levels – from junior staff through to senior managers. Senior Managers from the i10 to the Sante Fe, fi nd out why we can now off er you aff ordable driving without compromise."

One of North America’s favourite and most established beers, Molson Canadian will be promoted this

summer around Ireland courtesy of a fl eet of specially branded new Ford Kuga SUVs. Equipped with Ford’s fuel effi cient 2.0 litre TDCi engine, the six Kuga models are in eye-catching Frozen White and sporting the distinctive maple leaf logo of Molson Canadian. In addition to the hands-free tailgate, the six Kugas are also equipped with SYNC, Ford ’s ad v a nc e d communications and entertainment system. SYNC provides full mu sic s t rea m i ng from a smartphone or mp3 device, while also incorporating Bluetooth voice control and text message read-out. Th e system includes emergency assist, which wil l automatically call the

emergency services in the event of the car being involved in an accident. Should the driver be incapacitated, the Emergency Assistance system will also inform the emergency services as to the location of the car, all the time using the local language of the country where the accident has occurred.

Hyundai Ireland publishes Fleet Guide

Opel revises Insignia At the Frankfurt Motor Show in September Opel will unveil its new Insignia that is due to be launched in Ireland later this year. Opel’s fl agship fl eet model will shine with even more att ractive interior and exterior styling, taking the award-winning design philosophy “sculptural artistry meets German precision” to the next level.

New powerful and ultra-effi cient direct injection engines such as the 2.0CDT1 99g/km Turbo diesel and the new-generation Turbo petrol unit expand the wide portfolio. A host of chassis enhancements ensures higher comfort. A completely new infotainment system generation will integrate many smartphone functions into the car and can be operated intuitively and simply via a touchpad in the centre console.

All-new Toyota CorollaFrom 31 July, the eleventh generation version of the world’s best-selling car, the Toyota Corolla, will be available in Ireland. Th e Corolla’s exterior design embodies the evolution of Toyota’s new design language, while on the inside, the new Corolla has an enhanced rear passenger comfort including increased rear legroom, thanks to a wheelbase which has been extended by 100mm. Th e new Corolla also features a myriad of in-car technology.

Skoda 'marques' 20 years!Launched in 1993 with a two car range, the Czech maufacturer sold just 76 vehicles through a network of only four dealers in its fi rst year. 20 years on the brand has become a household name with over 60,600 vehicles delivered to customers over the period. Represented by 22 established dealers, the range of vehicles off ered by ŠKODA has grown to 10 model variants. Renowned for the quality, aff ordability and reliability of its vehicles, the period since 2008 has been ŠKODA’s most signifi cant growth period as Irish motorists rediscovered the value of the ŠKODA range. During this time, ŠKODA Ireland’s market share has doubled from 3.0% in 2008 to 6.9% year to date, placing the car maker 6th on the sales leader board.

Molson Canadian taps Ford Kuga!

Donella Casey, Fleet, Supply & Distribution Manager, Ford Ireland; and Lauren O’Flaherty of Molson Canadian Ireland and some of the Ford Kuga fl eet

www.fl eetcar.ie

Hyundai Ireland’s Fleet Line-UpSanta Fe i40 ix35 SUV & Commercial i30 Hatchback & i30 Tourer i30 iPro VanVeloster ix20 i20 i10

Page 10: Fleet Car Summer 2013

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013 Text & Photos: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie

10 | EVENT

Ford’s Primary Move to Ford’s Primary Move to

‘Extra’ - Ordinary‘Extra’ - Ordinary

2 013 marks signifi cant milestones for Ford Motor Company as the ‘blue-oval’ brand celebrates the 150th anniversary of the birth of

company founder Henry Ford, and records 21 years as sponsor to the UEFA European Champions League. From the product side, Ford of Europe is busy expanding its line-up but more importantly moving the brand’s image to a more primary position in the market place. Th e objective is to move Ford’s pedigree to a higher level of acceptance from the public and customers alike according to Mark Truby, V.P. Communications and Public Aff airs, Ford of Europe, “Starting with the launch of a new brand campaign during the 2013 UEFA Champions League Final highlighting a host of remarkable technologies available across Ford’s line-up,” he explained.

The entertaining brand-wide campaign featured Ford ’s innovative technologies such as SYNC with Emergency Assistance, its award winning 1.0 litre EcoBoost, petrol engine and new Rear View Camera. Ford brought to life its ‘Go Further’ package to the 90,000 strong audience at London’s Wembley Stadium and the estimated 150 million TV viewers from across Europe. Th rough the 15, 20 and 30 second advert slots during the half-time break of the Final between FC Bayern Munich and BV Borussia Dortmund, the focus was on directing traffi c to a special new website at www.ford.com.

Mark briefed the press at Warner Brothers Studio Tour near London (dedicated to the Harry Pott er movie series) and surprised many in stating that the UEFA Champions League Final has a bigger TV audience than the Super Bowl, “It provides us with the perfect opportunity to present Ford to millions of European customers as a brand that off ers great cars with remarkable technologies that make life a litt le easier, safer and more fun.”

In essence Ford of Europe wants to break away from the conventional cut-throat aspect of car

marketing where discounted prices are the norm. By highlighting the range of clever, safe and green technologies on board new Ford cars of today, the brand is transforming itself from an ‘ordinary’ middle ground brand to ‘extra-ordinary, with emphasis on the word ‘extra’ which is down to the high-tech options fi tt ed, which will be appreciated by existing and new customers alike. Ford had its largest ever presence at the 4-day

Champions League Final Festival, with the new Kuga and Fiesta ST the star att ractions. Special guest was the all-new EcoSport Compact SUV, which will be entering EU markets before the year-end.

“Just as the UEFA Champions League Final showcases the best of European football, the Champions Festival showcased some of the best technologies from our talented line-up of Ford vehicles,” stated Roelant de Waard, VP, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe.

“New Kuga off ers segment fi rst hands-free tailgate opening and Ford’s SYNC with Emergency Assistance; delivers enhanced driving dynamics through an intelligent all-wheel drive system and class-leading fuel economy. New Fiesta ST, launched this year, features a 182PS 1.6 litre EcoBoost engine making it the fastest production Fiesta ever, with enhanced Torque Vectoring Control and 3-mode Electronic Stability Control also makes it the most dynamic.”

Ford enters the compact SUV market with

the EcoSport built on the B-platform as per the Fiesta, Transit Courier and B-Max. “It is designed to meet the demand for small SUV’s around the world,” said Nick Fitzgerald, Ford of Europe’s Engineer Head on the project. “EcoSport gives customers accustomed to compact cars such as Fiesta an aff ordable, aspirational alternative that delivers driving fun and freedom, adventure and agility and a commanding driving position.”

Nick, (who has Irish blood!) had to oversee the Europeanisation of the concept derived in South America and explained that its origins stem back to the re-development of the Fusion car in Brazil which was most successful with over 700,000 units sold. Under the ‘One Ford’ programme, the newly created FWD only fi ve door launched in South America last year makes its way to Europe soon. It will be powered by either a 1.0 litre EcoBoost petrol or 1.5 litre Duratec/Duratorq diesels. Th e B-segment has serious growth potential accounting for more

than 2 million units [over the next two years] available with one specifi cation level, it will be produced in China, Brazil, Russia and Th ailand with India supplying European markets. With that in mind, the front-end has been changed to meet Euro NCAP crash test regulations while some interior mods include new steering wheel, hand brake and interior lighting. Th e tailgate, designed for LHD which opens to the opposite side will not be changed for UK and Irish markets due to the additional and substantial investment involved.

Ford EcoSpor t & Nick Fitzgerald, Ford of Europe’s Engineer Head on the project

Page 11: Fleet Car Summer 2013

Civic 1.6i-DTEC

Golf 1.6 TDI

Focus 1.6 TDCI

A3 1.6 TDI

Auris 1.4 D4D

i30 1.6 CRDI

Mazda 3 1.6D

Octavia 1.6 TDI 105

Power PS 120 105 95 105 90 110 115 105

Torque Nm 300 250 230 250 205 260 270 250

CO2 g/km 94 99 109 99 99 109 115 99

Consumption l/100km

3.6 3.8 4.2 3.8 3.8 3.7 4.3 3.8

Consumption mpg 78.5 74.3 67.3 74.3 74.3 76.3 65.7 74.3

Page 12: Fleet Car Summer 2013

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

12 | ECONOMY RUN

A ft er covering almost 900 kilometres of ‘normal’ driving on motorway and urban routes in one day,

the Honda Civic 1.6 litre i-DTEC diesel recorded an average of 70.25 mpg. Th e drive undertaken by Fleet Car magazine had two ES versions of the popular 5-door hatch bridging the gap between the two Titanic Centres in Belfast and Cobh, County Cork.

Th e test drive duo Jarlath Sweeney and Cathal Doyle accompanied by Universal Honda personnel Emmet Kavanagh and Ciaran Cullen set off at 10 a.m. on Monday morning 17 June to each replicate a day’s experience by the company car driver. At the end of the North-South coast-to-coast journey the two cars had chalked up 422 and 465 kilometres respectively. Remarkably, the average speed for both drivers was almost 90kp/h and both recorded identical fuel consumption of 4.0L/100km (see chart).

En route various stops were made at the Applegreen and Topaz Ser v ices at Castlebellingham, County Louth and Cashel, County Tipperary to stream ongoing progress of the run on social media (Twitt er and Facebook). Both cars then fi nally met up at the Junction 14 (Mayfi eld) Services at Monasterevin, County Kildare to go through the facts and fi gures to determine the averages.

Frank Kennedy, Sales and Marketing Director at Universal Honda was very pleased with the result saying: “ We were confi dent based on our own testing that the Fleet Car Challenge would

deliver a very positive outcome and the end result vindicated our expectations. In a new car market dominated by sticker prices we believe that the importance of ownership costs over the lifetime of the car is now too understated which prompted us to take the brave decision and go public with this challenge. Th e benefi t of increased fuel effi ciency can amount to a signifi cant saving in running costs over the life of a car and is worthy of serious consideration in the new car buying process”.

“The clever bit with the new Civic 1.6

diesel is that for a car that delivers such outstanding fuel efficiencies performance is not compromised,” he added.

Likewise, Jarlath Sweeney, Editor Fleet Car magazine was impressed with the smoothness and high comfort levels of the new Honda Civic diesel, “the new 1.6 I-DTEC diesel is a great addition and att raction to the new Honda Civic range. Even though it is the lightest engine of its type in the world, it produces 120bhp for eff ortless power and yet has only 94

g/km of CO2, one of the lowest on the market,” he said.

“Both Cathal and I enjoyed our time in the car and even aft er the long drive, we were still left refreshed. Th anks to Universal Honda for the opportunity to undertake this unique test and also to the Titanic Visitor Centres in Belfast and Cobh for their warm welcome to us and hospitality,” he added.

“Th e new Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC is truly a welcome member of the fl eet car and corporate car sector,” commented Cathal Doyle.

Honda Civic Diesel tops 70 mpg in Coast-to-Coast Challenge

*Fleet Car undertakes North/South drive between Titanic Centres.

Distance Covered

Average Fuel Consumption

Average Speed

Time Driven

MPG

Honda Civic 1.6i-DTEC ES Silver(North Run)

421.3km 4.0 L/100km 89.4kp/h 4.4 hrs 69.9mpg

Honda Civic 1.6i-DTEC ES Black(South Run)

465.5km 4.0 L/100km

90.6kp/h 5.10 hrs 70.6mpg

Page 13: Fleet Car Summer 2013

ECONOMY RUN | 13

Text: Jarlath Sweeney Photos: Jarlath Sweeney & Cathal Doyle www.fl eetcar.ie

Dublin - Belfast From Universal Honda’s headquarters at City west, the planned route out of Dublin to the Titanic Quarter in Belfast was primarily motorway. Apart from sections where speed restrictions were in place, the maximum limit of 120 kp/h was reached and maintained. Heavy rain coming in from the Irish Sea reduced the momentum and once across the Border the 60 mp/h limit was adhered to. While at traffi c lights, the Civic’s Stop/Start System was used to great eff ect. Th e ‘idle’ stop system works by turning off the engine when you come to a standstill. It restarts automatically upon pressing the clutch.

Another benefi cial element to further reduce fuel consumption is Honda’s Eco Assist System that works as an in-car coach or driver assistance programme which changes the colour of the speedometer to show how fuel efficiently you are driving. By braking and accelerating sharply, the surrounds of the speedometer glows blue and turns green. It is a simple technology which can have a major impact on the way you drive.

Upon arriving at the landmark Titanic Quarter in the heart of Belfast’s Docklands, we were met by Alex McGreevy, Media Relations Executive who allowed us to take photos outside the city’s new tourist att raction that had just over 4,000 visitors that weekend. He invited us to take a look at the ‘Game of Th rones’ Exhibition

from the highly successful TV series, fi lmed locally.

Emmet Kavanagh, Marketing Manager who navigated, stated along the journey the merits of the new 1.6 litre diesel from Honda, “it is the fi rst of our Earth Dreams range of eco-friendly engines,” he said, “and it will also be making it’s way into the new CR-SUV later this year and also the Civic Tourer (Estate) that is due here next year,” he added.

While it may have taken the Honda engineering team four years to develop, creating a car that was smooth and quiet on the road was the main priority and it shows through its refi ned drive. Inside, the Civic’s cabin has been designed around the driver from the i-MID colour display screen which is at eye level to the busy steering controls, all switch gear and information to hand. Honda’s ‘Magic Seats’ thankfully are retained in this ninth generation model which by one simple motion the seats lift , or fold down, locking easily into place. Th ey also split 60:40.

Dublin - CobhCathal Doyle accompanied by Ciaran Cullen, Field Aft ersales Representative at Universal Honda headed south on the M7 to stop off at the Junction 14 Services at Mayfi eld to stream details on Twitt er. Aft er almost 47km, the reading of the trip metre was an impressive

3.9L/100km despite having the automatic climate control set at 22oC! Surprisingly by the time they had reached Exit 6 – Horse and Jockey in Tipperary, that fi gure had jumped to 4.1 L/100km (at 134 kms). Stopping at Topaz Cashel it had come back by a litre per 100 kilometres and a further tenth of a litre by the time they had reached their destination at the Titanic Experience, Cobh. Th ere to meet and greet was Jennifer Buckley, Senior Tour Guide who also gave them a quick tour of the tourist venue, which once housed the ticket offi ce for the White Star Line Shipping Agency.

On the return leg, another stop-off was made at Litt le Island, Cork before making tracks to the Mayfi eld Services at Monasterevin to meet up with the silver Civic diesel that travelled to Belfast.

In summary, a pleasant day’s experience on board the new Honda Civic i-DTEC diesel and to paraphrase the words of Soichiro Honda, “A car that is not fun to drive is not a car at all,” epitomises all that is good about the ninth generation Civic. Truly a car for the private and business driver alike to like!

Spec CheckMake/Model: Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC ESEngine: 1597cc 4 cylinder 16 valve common-rail dieselPower: 120 PS @ 4000 rpmTorque: 300 Nm @ 2000 rpmTransmission: 6 speed manualPerformance: 0-100 km/h 10.5 secondsMaximum Speed: 207 km/h Boot Space: 1210 litres (Seats down)Fuel Tank: 50 litresTurning Circle: 11.26 metresVRT Tax Band: A2Annual Road Tax: €180 p.a.Price: from €23,975CO2 Rating: 94 g/kmStandard Equipment: Alloy wheels, Climate Control Air Conditioning, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Reversing Cameras (from ES), iPod USB connectivity.

Ciaran Cullen, Honda Ireland and Jennifer Buckley, Titanic Experience Cobh Th e Honda Civic 1.6 i-DTEC outside Belfast Titanic Quarter

Page 14: Fleet Car Summer 2013

Buyers' Guide 2013

N o other segment of the Irish car market is performing as well the SUV segment, especially sales of Crossovers or compact

SUV’s, which are increasing in popularity all the time. Hence, many manufacturers have

entered the market for the fi rst time in recent years and the buying public are choosing them as a replacement for traditional family cars.

Consequentially the business sector is also adding them to their fl eets and with changes in structure for company cars and mileage allowances, more are looking at functional SUV’s as the vehicle of choice for staff and for hire.

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

MAKE/MODEL ENGINE RA NGE POWER RA NGE

TRA NSMISSION TORQUE CO2 COUNT

Audi Q3 2.0 TDI/2.0 TFSi 140-211 bhp 6 Speed Manual/ 7 Speed S-tronic 320-350 Nm 137/172g/km

Audi Q5 2.0-3.0TDI/2.0 TFSi 150-313/225 bhp 6 Speed Manual/8 Speed Tip-Tronic 320-350 Nm 139-179/225g/km

Audi Q7 3.0-6-0 TDI 204-500 bhp 8 Speed Tip-Tronic 450-1,000 Nm 189-298 g/km

BMW X1 2.0 D/2.0 Petrol 116-218 bhp 6 Speed Manual/8-Speed Auto 320-450 Nm 128-154/163-179 g/km

BMW X3 2.0-3.0 D 143-313 bhp 6 Speed Manual/8 Speed Auto 360-630 Nm 135-162 g/km

BMW X5 3.0 D 245-381 bhp 6 Speed Manual/8 Speed Auto 540-600 Nm 195-199 g/km

Dacia Duster 1.5 dCi 110 hp 6 Speed Manual 240 Nm 130-137 g/km

Ford Kuga 2.0 TDCi 140-163 PS 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Powershift 320-340 Nm 139-162 g/km

Honda CR-V 2.2 i-DTEC 150 PS 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Auto 350 Nm 149-180 g/km

Hyundai ix35 1.7 CDRi/2.0 CRDi 116-184 PS 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Auto 260-392 Nm 139-187 g/km

Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 VGT 197 PS 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Auto 421-436 Nm 147-175 g/km

Jeep Compass 2.2 CRD 136-163 bhp 6 Speed Manual 190-320 Nm 161-172 g/km

Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0 V6 CRD 241 bhp 5 Speed Auto 550 Nm 218 g/km

Jeep Wrangler 2.8 CRD SWB/LWB 200 bhp 6 Speed Manual/5 Speed Auto 410-460 Nm 187-213/194-217 g/km

Audi Q3 Audi Q5 Audi Q7

14

'132' SPORTS UTILITY VEHICLES – SUVs

Page 15: Fleet Car Summer 2013

BUYERS' GUIDE 2013 | 15

FUEL ECONOMY ROAD TAX TAX BAND

FUEL TANK

WHEELS DRIVEN

SEATS MAX-BRA KED TRA ILER WEIGHT

PRICE

5.2/7.3L/100km €280/750 B2 - E 64/63 Lts 2WD/quatt ro 5 1,800 - 2,000kg €36,060-€41,860

5.3-7.9/184L/100km €280-750/750 B2- E/F 75 Lts 2WD/quatt ro 5 1,700 - 2,400kg €41,250-€74,050/€56,770-€60,155

7.2-11.3L/100km €750-2,350 E-G 100 Lts quatt ro 7 3,000 - 3,500kg €77,580-€196,050

4.9-5.9 L/100km €200-330/570 A4-C/D 61 Lts 2WD/xDrive AWD 5 1,800-2,000kg €34,820-€51,260/€40,780-€49,790

5.1-6.1 L/100km €280-€570 B2-D 67 Lts 2WD/xDrive AWD 5 2,400 kg €47,203-€70,250

7.4-7.5 L/100km €1,200 F 85 Lts xDrive AWD 5 3,500 kg €80,690-€153,660

5.0-5.3 L/100km €270-€280 B1-B2 2WD/4WD 5 1,200-1,500kg €15,990-€19,990

5.3-6.2 L/100km €280-€750 B2-E 60Lts FWD/AWD 5 1,500kg €33,450-€45,640

5.6-6.8 L/100km €390-€750 C-E 58 Lts AWD 5 1,500-2,000kg €39,295-€51,565

5.1-7.3 L/100km €270-€750 B1-E 58 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,200-2,000kg €26,495-€34,995

5.9-6.8 L/100km €390-€750 C-E 64 Lts 2WD/4WD 7 2,500kg €37,995-€49,995

6.1-6.6 L/100km €570-€750 D-E 51 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,200-2,000kg €30,595-€35,595

8.3 L/100km €1,200 F 93.5 Lts 4WD 5 3,500kg €63,295-€79,050

7.1-8.1/7.4-8.3 L/100km

€1,200-€2,350 F-G/F-G 66.6/85 Lts 4WD 5 1,000/1,000-2,200kg €36,795-€45,750

BMW X1 BMW X3 BMW X5

Dacia Duster Ford Kuga Honda CR-V

Hyundai ix35 Hyundai Santa Fe Jeep Compass

www.fl eetcar.ie

Page 16: Fleet Car Summer 2013

MAKE/MODEL ENGINE RA NGE POWER RA NGE

TRA NSMISSION TORQUE CO2 COUNT

Kia Sportage 1.7 CRD/2.0 CRD 115/134 PS 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Auto 255/320 Nm 139/149-179 g/km

Kia Sorento 2.2 CRD 197 PS 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Auto 421/436 Nm 155 g/km

Land Rover Freelander 2.2 TD4 150 hp 6 Speed Manual/Auto 420 Nm 158-185 g/km

Land Rover Discovery 4 3.0 TDV6 210 hp 6 Speed Manual/Auto 520 Nm 224 g/km

Range Rover Evoque/Evoque Coupe

2.2 eD4/TD4 150 hp 6 Speed Manual/Auto 380-400 Nm 133-149 g/km

Range Rover Sport 3.0 TDV6 210 hp 8 Speed Automatic 600 Nm 230 g/km

Range Rover 3.0 TDV6/SDV8/5.0 V8 Supercharged

255-510 hp 8 Speed Automatic 600-625 Nm 230-348 g/km

Lexus RX 3.5 V6 + Electric Motor 249 bhp CVT Automatic 317 Nm 145 g/km

Mercedes-Benz M-Class 2.2 CDI/3.5 V5 204-306 bhp 7 G-Tronic 370-500 Nm 158-206 g/km

Mitsubishi ASX 1.6 Petrol/1.8 DI-D 117/116 PS 5 Speed/6 Speed Manual 154/300 Nm 137/134 g/km

Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 DI-D 150 PS 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Auto 360-380 Nm 126-153 g/km

Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 DI-D 200 PS 5 Speed Auto 441 Nm 224 g/km

Nissan Juke 1.6 Petrol/1.5 dCi 94-200/110 PS 5 Speed Manual-XTRONIC CVT/6 Speed Manual

140-200/240 Nm

138-169/124 g/km

Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Petrol/1.5 dCi-2.0 dCi

117/110-150 PS 5 Speed Manual/6 Speed Manual/Auto/CVT

158/240-320Nm

139/119-184 g/km

Nissan Qashqai + 2 1.6 Petrol/1.5-1.6 dCi 117/110-130 PS 5 Speed Manual/6 Speed Manual 158/240-320 Nm

149/132-139 g/km

Nissan X-Trail 2.0 Diesel 150-173 PS 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Auto 320-360 Nm 159-188 g/km

Opel Mokka 1.4 Turbo/1.6/1.7 CDTi

140/115/130 bhp 6 Speed/5 Speed/6 Speed Manual 200/155/300 Nm

149/153/120 g/km

Peugeot 2008 1.2 e-Vti-1.6 e-Vti/1.4 HDi-1.6 e-HDi

82-120/68-115 bhp 5 Speed Manual/Auto/5 & 6 Speed Manual/Auto

118-160/230-270 Nm

99-135/98-105 g/km

Peugeot 3008 1.6 HDi/2.0eHDi 115/163+37 (Electric Motor) bhp

6 Speed/6 Speed Auto 270 Nm 117-130/99-104 g/km

Renault Captur TCe 90 Petrol/dCi 90 90 bhp 6 Speed Manual/5 SpeedManual 190-220 Nm 95-113 g/km

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

Kia Sportage

Jeep Wrangler

Land Rover Discovery 4 HSE

Kia Sorento

Land Rover Freelander 2 TD4

Jeep Grand Cherokee S-Limited

16 | BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

Page 17: Fleet Car Summer 2013

BUYERS GUIDE 2013 | 17

FUEL ECONOMY ROAD TAX TAX BAND

FUEL TANK

WHEELS DRIVEN

SEATS MAX-BRA KED TRA ILER WEIGHT

PRICE

5.3/5.7-6.9 L/100km €280/€390-€570

B2/C-D 58 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,200/1,600-2,000kg €26,590-€36,490

5.9-6.7 L/100km €390 C 58 Lts 4WD 7 2,500kg €37,990-€41,790

6.0-7.0 L/100km €570-€750 D-E 68 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 2,000 kg €35,320-€56,225

8.5 L/100km €1,200 F 82 Lts 4WD 5 3,500 kg €67,500-€79,310

5.7-7.0 L/100km €280-€390 B2-C 58 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,500-1,800 kg €41,935-€63,200

8.8 L/100km €1,200 F 77 Lts 4WD 5 3,000 kg €77,200-€93,350

8.1-10.7 L/100km €2,350 G 85 Lts 4WD 5 3,500 kg €119,355-€179,175

6.1 L/100km €170 N/A 65 Lts FWD/AWD 5 2,700 kg €62,450-€84,450

6.0-8.5 L/100km €570-€1,200 D-F 70-78 Lts 4Matic 5 2,950-3,500 kg €74,680-€82,025

6.0/5.1 L/100km €280 B2 63 Lts 2WD 5 1,200/1,400 kg €23,950/€26,950

4.8-5.8 L/100km €270-€390 B1-C 63 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 & 7 2,000 kg €34,950-€39,950

8.5 L/100km €1,200 F 69 Lts 4WD 7 3,500 kg €65,950

5.0-6.0/4.8 L/100km €280-€570/€270

B2-D/B1 46 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,150-1,200/1,250 kg €19,095-€33,375/€20,845

6.4-4.5 L/100km €280/€200-€750

B2/A4-E 65 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,200/700-2,400 kg €23,745-€26,745/€25,645-€39,645

6.4/5.0-5.3 L/100km €390/€280 C/B2 65 Lts 2WD/4WD 7 1,200-1,200-,1400 kg €26,145/€27,645-€29,345

6.0-7.1 L/100km €570-€750 D-E 65 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,350-2,000 kg €32,145-€43,945

6.3/6.5/4.5 L/100km €200-€390 C/C/A4 52 Lts 2WD 5 1,200kg €19,995-€29,995

4.9-5.9/3.8-4 L/100km

€180-€280/ A2-B2 50 Lts 2WD 5 1,100-1,270 kg TBA

4.7-5.3 L/100km €200-€270-€180-190

A4-B1/A2-A3

60 Lts 2WD 5 1,090-1,300kg €24,555-€40,795

3.2-5.5 L/100km €180-€200 A2-A4 45 Lts 2WD 5 900 kg €19,390-€22,490

www.fl eetcar.ie

Lexus RX 450h Mercedes M-Class Mitsubishi ASX

Range Rover Evoque Range Rover Sport Range Rover

Page 18: Fleet Car Summer 2013

MAKE/MODEL ENGINE RA NGE POWER RA NGE

TRA NSMISSION TORQUE CO2 COUNT

Skoda Yeti 1.2 TSI/1.6-2.0 TDI 105/105-170 bhp 6 Speed Manual/DSG/Auto 175/250-350 Nm

119-189 g/km

SsangYong Korando 2.0 Diesel 149 PS 6 Speed Manual 360 Nm 147 g/km

Subaru Forester 2.0 Boxer 147 PS 6 Speed Manual 350 Nm 155-170 g/km

Suzuki SX4 1.5 VVT/2.0-DDiS 82/99 bhp 5 Speed Manual/6 Speed Manual 145/320 Nm 139/139 g/km

Suzuki Gran Vitara 1.9 DDiS 129 PS 5 Speed Manual 300 Nm 179 g/km

Toyota RA V4 2.0 D4-D/2.2 D-CAT/2.0-Valvematic

124/150/151 bhp 6 Speed Manual/6 Speed Auto/6 Speed Manual & 7 Speed MultiDrive

310/340/195 Nm

127-143/173/167 g/km

Toyota Land Cruiser SWB/LWB

3.0 D4-D 190 bhp 6 Speed Manual/Auto 420 Nm 209-214 g/km

Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TDI 110-140 bhp 6 Speed Manual/DSG 7 Speed 280-320 Nm 139-158 g/km

Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI V6 204 bhp 8 Speed Auto 450 Nm 184 g/km

Volvo XC60 2.0-2.4 D4/2.4 D5 163-215 PS 6 Speed Manual & Auto 400-429/420-440 Nm

139-179/149-179 g/km

Volvo XC90 2.4 D4/D5 163-200 PS 6 Speed Automatic 340-420 Nm 212-215 g/km

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

Toyota RA V4

Opel Mokka Peugeot 2008 Peugeot 3008

Suzuki SX4

Nissan Qashqai Nissan Qashqai+2Nissan Pathfi nder

'132' SUVBUYERS' GUIDE

Mitsubishi Outlander Nissan Juke

18 | BUYERS' GUIDE 2013

Page 19: Fleet Car Summer 2013

BUYERS' GUIDE 2013 | 19

FUEL ECONOMY ROAD TAX TAX BAND

FUEL TANK

WHEELS DRIVEN

SEATS MAX-BRA KED TRA ILER WEIGHT

PRICE

6.1-6.3/5.1-6.5 L/100km

€390/€200-€570

C/A4-D 60 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,150-2,000kg €24,530-€30,005/€25,320-€36,075

5.8 L/100km €390 C 57 Lts 2WD 5 2,000 kg €25,995

6.0 L/100km €390-€570 C-D 60 Lts AWD 5 2,000 kg €34,995-€38,295

6.1/5.3 L/100km €280 B2 50 Lts FWD/AWD 5 1,200 kg €17,995-€22,215

6.8 L/100km €750 E 66 Lts 4x4 5 2,000kg €36,695

4.9-5.6/6.6/7.2 L/100km

€270-€390/€750/€570

B1-C/E/D 60 Lts 2WD/AWD 5 1,600-2,000 kg €27,995-€37,495/€39,995/€32,830-€40,770

7.9-8.2 L/100km €1,200 F 87 Lts 4WD SWB 5 LWB 7

3,000 kg €67,645-€70,800/€78,164-€90,445

6.0 L/100km €280-€570 B2-D 64 Lts 2WD/4WD 5 1,800-2,300 kg €30,745-€42,980

7.0 L/100km €750 E 85 Lts 4WD 5 3,500 kg €74,460

5.7-6.8 L/100km €280-€750 B2-E 70 Lts FWD/AWD 5 1,600-2,000 kg €38,995-€60,295

8.1 L/100km €1,200 F 68 Lts FWD/AWD 7 1,800-2,250 kg €55,995-€72,95

Renault Captur ŠKODA Yeti

Volvo XC60

Volkswagen Tiguan

Suzuki Grand Vitara

SsangYong Korando

Volvo XC90

Volkswagen TouaregToyota Land Cruiser

Subaru Forester

Compiled by Gerry Murphy - gerrym@fl eet.ie www.fl eetcar.ie

'132' SUVBUYERS' GUIDE

Page 20: Fleet Car Summer 2013

20 | LUBRICANTS

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013 Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fl eet.ie

T he relentless drive towards cleaner engines, lower emissions and bett er fuel consumption is something we have all become

familiar with over the last decade. Much of the advancement has been driven by regulatory requirements and standards that have had a dramatic eff ect on emissions levels. For example, sulphur levels have fallen from 8,000 ppm in 1970 to 10 ppm today for both diesel and petrol. In fact we’re now almost at zero with regards to cleaning up emissions such as nitrous oxide, sulphur oxide and particulates, and the focus from a legislative point of view is now more directed towards climatic change, fuel economy and less carbon dioxide, as well as securing security of supply.

While we as end-users, and the planet as a whole, are the benefi ciaries of the advancements made particularly in the past decade, it has put considerable pressures on vehicle and engine manufacturers and lubricant suppliers, with modern engines operating at higher pressures and temperatures, and at ever fi ner tolerance levels. At the same time end users demand longer service intervals and greater reliability than ever before. Quite a challenge for the venerable internal cumbustion engine.

While modern lubricants do a fantastic job keeping the running parts of an engine operating smoothly, another challenge is right at the heart of the engine. On even the most effi cient and well maintained engines, build up of deposits caused by the combustion process can occur over time. While modern petrol and diesel contain eff ective deposit control additives that do an excellent job in removing as many of these as possible, invariably deposits such as sulphur and hydrocarbons can build up aft er prolonged use on injector tips and on valves, as well as on the combustion chamber itself, Diesel engines can also suff er from internal diesel injector deposits. Such deposits lead over time to reductions in fuel economy, less power and higher CO2 emissions, and can, if left untreated, do more serious damage to engines.

What can be done to remove build-up of deposits when they occur? Two of methods available are both time consuming, expensive, and not necessarily effective, namely to mechanically clean the components, or, where injectors are aff ected, to replace them. A third – optimal – option is the use of fuel additives to remove the deposit build-up in the combustion chamber.

Fuel additives work by att acking the build-up of deposits allowing them to be oxidized and

dissolved into the fuel, and burnt. Th e trouble is there are additives and there are additives, and if they have a somewhat mixed reputation regarding their eff ectiveness, it’s because at least some products quite simply don’t do what they say. Consisting mainly of detergents, some for instance only contain active solvent but don’t properly oxidize the deposits, which can lead to separate problems such as sludge build-up.

One company that is aiming to clean up the image of fuel additives is Techron. A relatively new name to the European market, but with a strong pedigree behind it, parent company, the American oil giant Chevron has over 35 years of work developing Techron Concentrate Plus for petrol engines. While that product has been available in Europe for some time, the company is now launching Techron D Concentrate for diesel engines. Both products have been specifi cally tested for use in European engines, and to meet European legislative requirements.

To prove the eff ectiveness of its additives, Techron undertook an extensive real-world test with an independent emissions testing service,

Emissions Analytics. Th is comprehensive test involved sourcing a total of 22 used petrol and diesel cars from the market of between 3 to 5 years of age, and mileage between 30,000 and 50,000 miles. Techron was added to a tank of fuel, with the cars being measured before and aft er treatment. Average results for petrol cars showed an 8.7% improvement in fuel economy and a gain of 2.6% in peak power, while CO2 emissions were 7.4% less. For diesel engines, the corresponding improvements were 7.6% bett er fuel consumption, 3.4% more peak power, and emissions down 6.5%.

Nick Molden, managing direction of Emissions Analytics was impressed with the results, noting that overall Techron came out very strongly compared to other products his company has tested, noting especially the consistency achieved across the board.

TECHRON Drives Towards Cleaner Engines

Injector deposits - before Techron

Injector deposits - aft er Techron

Page 21: Fleet Car Summer 2013

Easytrip donates to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind

GAUGE FOR YOURSELF

Techron® is a Chevron company product and is distributed in the UK exclusively by Texaco Lubricants.

©2013 Chevron Products UK Limited. All rights reserved. All trademarks are the property of Chevron Intellectual Property LLC,except CC Lubricants logo which is property of its respective owner.1Boroscope images f rom petro l veh ic le tes t ing wi th European engines and European fue ls , 20 122DISI Engine Tes t

Techron® Concentrate Plus and Techron D Concentrate Fuel System Cleaners are tested and proven to help restore lost fuel economy in your customer’s vehicles.To find out more about Techron® technology and how the Techron Fuel System Cleaning Program can help your customers and your business, visit us at www.techronworks.com

Techron products are designed for professional use only and are available from our Authorised Texaco Lubricants Distributors:

TECHRONWORKS.COM

For Ireland contact:

CC LubricantsUnit 8,Portarlington Business Park,

Portarlington, Co. LaoisT: 057 8684500 F: 057 8684508

[email protected] www.cclubricants.ie

For Northern Ireland contact:

WR Kennedy & Co.27A Pennybridge Industrial Estate,

Ballymena, Co. AntrimT: 028 25656616 F: 028 25630282

[email protected] www.wrkennedy.com

Page 22: Fleet Car Summer 2013

22 | AWARDS

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

Considering that the Volkswagen Golf Mark 6 won its category in the inaugural Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards in 2012 in what was its run-out year, its successor, the seventh

generation of the iconic German hatchback was always likely to be a serious contender to repeat the accolade in 2013. And so it proved, the latest Golf proving an immediate favourite with the judging panel despite strong opposition in the ultra-competitive family hatchback segment. Build quality and strong residuals were among the points highlighted, with judges noting that the latest Golf is the most upmarket and refi ned yet, while the car’s renowned quality and image remain as strong as ever.

A slightly longer chassis than the previous model has lead to improved interior space, with judges commenting on excellent rear leg room, while drivers of all sizes will have no problems gett ing comfortable behind the steering wheel. Dynamically, the Golf won praise for its ride and handling, while the range of 1.2 and 1.4 litre petrol and 1.6 and 2.0 diesel engines were considered a strong suit, with the 105 hp 1.6 TDI in particular a good choice for fl eet buyers in this segment. Finally judges noted the range of technological options now available on the Golf, including the clever Active Cylinder Technology on the new 1.4 TSI, which allows the car to run on two cylinders when full power is not required.

C-Segment: Winner - Volkswagen Golf

222222222222222 ||||||| | || AAAAAAA A A WAAWAWAWAWAWAWAWAWWARDRDRDRDRDRDRDRDRDRDRDSSSSSSSSS

Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013

Category Winners

C Segment: Volkswagen GolfCathal Doyle, Fleet Car Magazine; Paul Burke, Volkswagen and Shane Teskey, Motorcheck.ie

Page 23: Fleet Car Summer 2013

AWARDS | 23

www.fl eetcar.ie

Test Drive Report:

D-Segment: Winner -Mazda 6

“The best 3-series ever” was the considered opinion of the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards judges in assessing BMW’s latest iteration of its popular family saloon.

Superb build quality, the driving experience and interior layout were among the reasons given in voting for the 3-Series as this year’s D-Segment Premium winner.

User choosers in the D-Segment Premium category can be said to be among the most demanding of fl eet drivers, and the qualities that have long made the BMW 3-Series a fl eet favourite have certainly not been neglected in the latest F30 model launched in 2012. Th e BMW garnered high praise from the judges for its handling and driving characteristics, with comments such as “it combines communicative steering with a ride quality that veers on the fi rm side but is perfectly in-tune with Irish roads”. Th e frugality of its diesel engines also came in for praise, with the Effi cientDynamics version of the 320d singled out for returning compelling fuel consumption and emissions fi gures without compromising on drivability. Th e driver ergonomics of the latest car were also noted to have improved over the previous model, while the 3-Series’ rock-solid residuals were also highlighted in choosing the car as category winner.

D-Segment Premium: Winner -BMW 3 Series

The new Mazda 6 certainly caught the att ention of the judging panel, with the majority describing its looks as stunning. “Mazda has brought style to the fl eet market” said one.

Th e appeal of the 6 is more than skin deep though, as the winner of the traditionally fl eet-important D-segment scored highly on a number of fronts, from its driving appeal, to strong engines and a capacious interior.

Available with a 2.0 litre petrol engine, or a 2.2 diesel, the diesel off ering is likely to have most appeal for the fl eet market. Judges noted its drivability, refi nement and strong fuel consumption fi gures, while the Mazda also won praise for its i-ELOOP brake energy regeneration system. Ride quality was also highlighted with a new stiff er but lighter chassis and a sharper electric steering system making the 6 more dynamic to drive. Th e interior was praised for excellent driver ergonomics and comfortable seats, while passengers were also considered to be well catered for, with excellent interior leg-room. Boot capacity was also mentioned as a strong point.

Th e Mazda6 2.2 Diesel Sport model features generous levels of standard equipment include: i-Eloop regenerative braking, i-Stop, integrated Bluetooth®, Cruise Control and 17” Alloys.

D Segment: Mazda 6Cathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car Magazine; Richard Molloy, Mazda and Shane Teskey, Motorcheck.ie

D Segment Premium: BMW 3 SeriesCathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car Magazine; Austin Behan, BMW and Shane Teskey, Motorcheck.ie

Pictured at the presentation are Richard Molloy, Marketing & PR Director, Mazda Ireland and Paul Adgey, Mazda Ireland.

Austin Behan, Conor Prendergast and Niall Bishop, BMW

Page 24: Fleet Car Summer 2013

www.volkswagen.ie

How to increase your Fleet’s resale value.Contact [email protected] www.volkswagen.ie

Follow us onFacebook and Twitter

Page 25: Fleet Car Summer 2013

Test Drive Report:

Estate: Winner - Skoda Superb Combi

The Skoda Superb Combi retained the title it won last year as the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards Estate for 2013. Despite being due a facelift imminently, the Superb

Combi’s almost legendary load carrying capabilities, smart looks and strong equipment levels were enough to see off the challenges of its rivals.

Th ese days estates are as much about style as substance, but the Superb Combi manages to carry off both criteria with aplomb. “It still remains the class leader for space and load carrying capabilities,” commented one panel member, while another noted the executive car levels of legroom aff orded rear passengers.

Th e Skoda was also praised for representing good value for money, with high levels of standard equipment even on more basic specifi cations. Th e long wheelbase helps to ensure a comfortable ride, with high levels of sound proofi ng keeping external noise levels to a minimum. Fuel consumption on the 1.6 and 2.0 litre diesel engines was also noted as being very good for such a large car.

Estate: Skoda Superb CombiCathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car Magazine; Robert Guy, Skoda and Shane Teskey, Motorcheck.ie

AWARDS | 25

www.fl eetcar.ie

Estate Premium: Winner - BMW 5 Series Touring

In taking this new award for best Premium Estate, the BMW 5 Series Touring was described as “a perfect all-round car”. Increasingly executive buyers are seeing premium estates as

more stylish alternatives to their saloon counterparts, with the BMW winning praise for its styling, its short overhangs and a long roofl ine giving the Touring a sporty appearance. “Beautiful looking car and wonderful to drive” and “Th e 5-Series Touring combines looks and practicality in what is an unbeatable combination” were two of the comments from the judging panel.

Despite powering such a large car, the 2.0 litre diesel engine found in the 520d Touring was considered by the judges to off er an ideal balance of performance and fuel economy. On-road driving performance was another area to win praise, with judges commenting that dynamically the BMW was poised, well balanced and ‘a car in which it is a pleasure to while away long journeys”. Th e interior layout was also highlighted for its ergonomic and intuitive layout, while from a fl eet perspective, the 5-Series Touring was considered to have one of the best residual values in the category.

Estate Premium: BMW 5 Series TouringCathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car Magazine; Austin Behan, BMW and Shane Teskey, Motorcheck.ie

Page 26: Fleet Car Summer 2013

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

26 | AWARDS

Executive: Winner - BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe

In winning its third award at the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013, one of the cars the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe beat to the accolade was its sibling, the 5-Series. Th e 6 Series

may compete at the upper end of the Executive Car market, but its classic coupe styling combined with the practicality of a four door body capable of seating four adults means it off ers high fl ying executives an alternative to the more regular saloons that make up this segment of the market.

One of the highlights of the 6 Series Gran Coupe is undoubtedly the very impressive 3-litre, 6 cylinder engine found in the only diesel variant, the 640d. As well as off ering very strong performance combined with a most un-diesel like pleasant rumble, judges noted its fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 148 g/km were bett er than those found in cars with much smaller engine capacities. Th ese aff ordable running costs combined with excellent driving dynamics and high build quality were highlighted by judges in choosing the 640d as Executive Car winner. “It has an appeal that none of its rivals can match” and “the ultimate combination of performance and style. Could well be considered a BMW fl agship” were among the comments.

Executive: BMW 6 Series Gran CoupeCathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car Magazine; Austin Behan, BMW and Shane Teskey, Motorcheck.ie

In the rarifi ed world of the Luxury Fleet Car market, the criteria for success are not always the same as for their lesser brethren. Comfort and convenience are paramount, with Company

Directors and their ilk needing to be able to relax between busy meetings or be able to use the car as a mobile offi ce while on the move. Hence rear interior space is as important as driving dynamics, while cars in this class need to exhibit the ultimate in refi nement.

In this new category, the Audi A8 won praise from judges for sett ing the standards for refi nement and quality while still off ering an impressive driving experience. “Th e A8 is a car that cocoons you from the outside world. Luxury at its best,” wrote one judge. “Th e chauff eur’s choice. Proved its worth over the two-day test. Th e car to desire. Excellent combination of build quality and driving pleasure,” were other comments. Judges were also impressed with the performance and fuel consumption from the 3.0 TDI engine, noting the use of an aluminium spaceframe chassis, which saves up to 200 kg over a conventional steel chassis.

Luxury: Winner - Audi A8

Luxury: Audi A8Cathal Doyle and Denise Owens, Fleet Car Magazine; Alan Cowley, Audi and Shane Teskey, Motorcheck.ie

Page 27: Fleet Car Summer 2013

Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fl eet.ie www.fl eetcar.ie

TYRES | 27

Goodyear Dunlop celebrates Goodyear Dunlop celebrates 125 years of pneumatic tyre125 years of pneumatic tyre

I t’s exceedingly unlikely that John Boyd Dunlop, a vetinary surgeon from Scotland living in Belfast, could have had any comprehension of the signifi cance of his invention when, back in 1888, he came up with the idea of infl ating a rubber tube

to create the fi rst pneumatic tyre for his son’s tricycle. Th at simple idea revolutionized transport across the world, spearheading major advancements in driving comfort and safety just as the motoring age was taking its fi rst tentative steps.

Moreover, if the good Mr. Dunlop were alive today, it is likely that he would be equally incredulous to see just how far tyre technology has advanced, and the levels of grip, performance and durability that are available for motorists currently. To the uninitiated, tyres many be just ‘round black things’ but look beneath the tread patt erns, and the technology involved is as advanced and as complex as that found anywhere else in the car. Something that every motorist should refl ect on every now and again.

To celebrate the occasion of the 125th anniversary of John Boyd Dunlop’s invention, Goodyear Dunlop invited guests to Mondello Park, where the legacy of the company’s founder was demonstrated in the best possible way – via a series of on-track tests and demonstrations.

Also highlighted (and driven) were some of the latest generation Goodyear and Dunlop products. Dunlop launched its new BluResponse range on the Irish market, while the Goodyear focus was on its Effi cientGrip Performance range.

Th e new BluResponse range of summer tyres from Dunlop has been developed to reduce carbon emissions and provide lower rolling resistance. Fitt ing in between the company’s StreetResponse and Sports Maxx RT ranges it off ers excellent wet grip performance thanks to an active compound that adapts to road surfaces. Bett er braking in wet and dry conditions is aided by edge of tyre blocks that give more uniform braking performance. Rolling resistance has been enhanced by reduced weight and the use of more rigid molecules that don’t move around as much, thereby reducing the amount of heat generated. Dunlop estimates that the new BluResponse tyre off ers 30% bett er rolling resistance than standard tyres, equating to a saving of €100 per year.

Wet grip performance and rolling resistance are also key elements of Goodyear’s latest Effi cientGrip Performance tyre, thanks to a dual compound called Wear Control Technology. Th e fi rst element of the compound reduces rolling resistance, while the second side is wet performance for bett er braking. Under the new tyre labeling measurement standards for fuel effi ciency and wet grip, an impressive 82% of the Effi cientGrip range qualify for the top two A or B ratings.

Back to the tyre tests, and if a lot of it was good fun, not least gett ing to blast around part of the County Kildare circuit in Audi TT RS high performance cars, there was also a serious element, which was to highlight the capabilities of premium tyres versus cheaper budget options, specifi cally when it comes to critical tests such as emergency braking, cornering grip and swerving.

Taken in isolation, the budget tyres seemed to perform reasonably adequately, but measured against Goodyear and Dunlop rivals the diff erences in performance were stark. Whether medium or high speed braking tests in wet and dry conditions, slalom tests to simulate emergency swerving, or measuring ultimate cornering grip, the budget tyres performed demonstrably worse than their premium rivals. Translate those simulated tests into real-life situations, and it is easy to see how fi tt ing the right tyres can literally be the diff erence between having an accident or not.

Certainly there was a consensus amongst all in att endance that having seen the results fi rst hand they would never consider fi tt ing budget tyres to their own vehicles in future. As one visitor noted “We expect our cars to come fully equipped with all the latest safety and collision prevention equipment yet are happy to then compromise that by fi tt ing inferior tyres. Where’s the logic in that?” Sentiments that John Boyd Dunlop would doubtless agree with.

High speed cornering test

Tackling the slalom course in a Mazda 3 equipped with Goodyear Effi cientGrip Performance

Page 28: Fleet Car Summer 2013

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013

28 | FLEETING SHOTS

Easytrip, provider of electronic tolling and parking payment services, has presented a

€3,000 cheque to the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. Th e funds were raised as part of a joint initiative where Easytrip donated €5 for every new Easytrip account opened over a three month period.

Promoting mobility and independence is a theme common to both organizations’ and Easytrip identifi ed Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind as its preferred charity with the aim of highlighting this worthy cause.

Pict ured at the presentat ion were: Kirby, the working guide dog; From left: Marion Lennon, Customer Service Agent, Easytrip Services Ireland; Sinead O’Keeff e, Commercial Manager, Irish Guides for the Blind and Jacinta Holmwood, Customer Service Agent, Easytrip Services Ireland.

Easytrip donates to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind

Peugeot Coupe for Limerick Institute of Technology

The DeLorean Story by Nick Sutton

Gowan Distributors Ltd, the main importers and distributors of Peugeot in Ireland recently

presented an unregisteredPeugeot 407 2.2 Coupe to Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT). Peugeot and Gowans also provided the Automotive Engineering Lecturers at LIT with technical training and diagnostic tools to keep them abreast with ever changing technology in the automotive sector.

Eddie Nolan, Head of Motor Apprenticeship who received the new 407 Coupe on behalf of LIT, thanked the Gowan Group for its ongoing support of their educational programmes. Over the years Eddie has worked to build

relationships with the Motor Industry said that the presentation of a car with such a high level of equipment will enhance the training of the apprentices and full time students who come to LIT. He also commented on the fact that it is a

common goal of LIT, FAS and through Irish Motor Industry companies like Gowans to provide this country with highly qualifi ed and skilled technicians that are sought and employed not only here but through the world.

Ken Leonard of Leonard Peugeot, Limerick, who through his business has provided employment for past pupils of LIT and hopes that this trend will continue into the future, was also on hand at the handover.

Pictured fr om left to right; Eddie Nolan, LIT; Martin Dunne, Gowan Peugeot and Ken Leonard, Leonard Peugeot Limerick.

In the end all it took was £80,000 to put the fi nal nail in the coffi n of the DeLorean era in West Belfast. Th e late Margaret Th atcher,

the then British Prime Minister, refused to give approval for another resurrection att empt of the car company that was best known for its association with the Spielberg ‘Back to the Future’ fi lms. Just one element of the intriguing tale that is told so well by Nick Sutt on, a former senior member of the staff at the Dunmurry facility, in this new hardback subtitled Th e Car, Th e People, Th e Scandal.

Such were the massive levels of deception that from 1978 to 1983 almost £77.5 million was pumped into the project by the UK taxpayer, which was primarily established to readdress the unemployment balance that emerged between the Catholic dominated West Belfast and the other side of the city that had Harland & Wolff as its big employer. Although the DMC-12 sports car with its gull-wing doors and stainless steel body would feature in the movies and in car shows and museums all over the world, the story of its production, trials and tribulations merits a feature fi lm of its own.

Nearly 9000 cars were produced at the plant developed over a 72 acre site in a muddy fi eld on the Lisburn Road. All that is left now is the rusting high wire fence that once surrounded the test track, a sad memorial to a once vibrant facility that employed 2,500 locals and brought much yearned-for prosperity to the region. Right from the start, the project had many hiccups, told in detail by Nick who was one of the fi rst employees there, and one of the last to leave the company following receivership. What followed over the short life of DeLorean in Belfast were issues that aff ected the progress of the company from embezzlement, sectarian violence and the FBI drugs sting that would fi nally bring company founder John DeLorean down.

Following its demise, much play was made here on the fact that Irish Industry & Commerce Minister,

Des O’Malley TD turned down the project for Limerick. Another West of Ireland link was that the sheet metal pressings used on the DMC-12 (made in Carlow) are still used as anchors at a salmon farm in Connemara.

An additional point of interest is that the whole DeLorean debacle did not feature in the fi lm ‘Iron Lady’ based on the life of the recently deceased Maggie Th atcher, as other bigger issues such as the industrial strife in England and the Falklands War in Argentina took up most of her time.

All those years later, the Lotus designed DMC-12 has reached iconic status. Had it continued, we would have seen a four-door version and even an off -road variant.

A truly remarkable and interesting story, well told and full of intrigue. Jarlath Sweeney

Published by Haynes ISBN: 9780857333148 RRP: £17.99

Page 29: Fleet Car Summer 2013

SEAT Leon 1.2 TSI Reference OTRP ¤18,995. Model shown is for illustrative purposes only. Offi cial combined fuel consumption fi gures for the SEAT Leon range are 3.8-6.0l/100km and C0

2 emissions are 99-139g/km.

SEAT.IEFOLLOW US ON:

/QUALITY ENGINEERING/MEMBER OF THE VOLKSWAGEN GROUP

Let your eyes linger on the New SEAT Leon – the car that has taken design, technology, comfort and safety to a spectacular new level.

From stunning exterior design to quality interior fi nishes, the New SEAT Leon not only looks good, it feels good too. Boasting generous cabin space, it comes with Air Conditioning & Bluetooth as standard and features a new media system with 5” colour touchscreen for all your travel and entertainment needs. Available with a range of fuel effi cient and low emissions petrol and diesel engines, the new SEAT Leon is a remarkably affordable car, available from as little as ¤18,995. THE NEW SEAT LEON. TECHNOLOGY TO ENJOY.

3 years warranty / 3 years roadside assistance

WHY NOT CALL OUR FLEET DEPARTMENT TODAY?

THE NEW SEAT LEONFrom only ¤18,995

SEAT IRELANDFleet Department ManagerMark BradyBlock C, Liffey Valley Offi ce Campus, Liffey Valley, Dublin 22T: 01 8989850 M: 087 6878943 E: [email protected]: www.seat.ie

Page 30: Fleet Car Summer 2013

FLEETCAR | Summer 2013 Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fl eet.ie

TEST | 30

I f the appeal of Sports Utility Vehicles remains as strong as ever, it is a market that has seen some signifi cant changes in recent years. Out of favour

are larger and expensive-to-run fully fl edged off -road 4WD machines, while sales of smaller Crossover types that are more fuel effi cient cars and typically come with 2WD and limited off -road capabilities continue to boom. Take Kia’s Sorento as an example; in 2007, the last full year before the economic crisis took eff ect, a healthy 580 units were sold in Ireland. Last year though, only 54 buyers were persuaded to part their hard earned cash for a Sorento. In comparison the Korean manufacturer’s smaller SUV, the Sportage, recorded 1,263 sales in 2012 - over twice the 611 units sold in 2007.

Th e latest generation Sorento - a signifi cant facelift over the model launched in 2009 -therefore faces into a challenging market environment. Up against the Sportage and its ilk on one hand, on the other it lacks the low ratio gearbox and ultimate towing capabilities to make it a serious competitor to rivals such as the Toyota Land Cruiser and Land Rover Discovery.

Th at said, the Sorento does hold some cards up its sleeve. For starters, it’s one of a select few SUVs in the aff ordable category that comes with seven seats, making it instantly an att ractive proposition for families who don’t want to opt for an MPV style vehicle. It also features 4WD as standard on all models, a feature that costs extra on direct 7-seater rivals such as the Hyundai Santa Fe and Mitsubishi Outlander.

But there’s a bit more to the large Kia than just 4WD and lots of seats. Notably the latest Sorento is signifi cantly cleaner and more economical. Th e diesel engine, which mated to either six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes off ers lively performance, is ostensibly still the same 2.2 litre unit, outputt ing 197 PS and 436 Nm of torque as before. However CO2

emissions are down to 155 g/km from 171 g/km, putt ing the Sorento into tax band C, while quoted fuel economy has improved from 6.5 l/100 km (43.4 mpg) to 5.9 l/100 km (47.8 mpg). Of course real world fuel consumption is never as good as manufacturers state, but nonetheless we returned a quite respectable average of 6.9 l/100 km (40.9 mpg) during our week’s test drive. Th is fi gure is achievable to a certain extent by the 4WD system, which is an on-demand set-up, with 100% power going to the front wheels unless there is a loss of traction, but which can be locked into 50:50 4WD when required.

From a driving perspective the Sorento performs more than adequately. If the adoption of a modern monocoque shell over the earlier ladder frame chassis defi ned the outgoing model, further improvements to ride and handling have been made with the launch of the latest version thanks to a re-engineered body shell, revised suspension set-up, and a lower – by 10mm – bodyshell. Noticeable also is an improvement to the steering, which is more direct and bett er weighted than before.

Styling wise the new Sorento is an evolution of the previous generation model, with revised front and rear bumpers, front grille, tailgate and LED daytime running lights giving the large SUV an up-to-date appearance in line with the current Kia family look. Inside, it is prett y much as before, which is not a criticism, as the Sorento retains a fresh and functional appearance, with plenty of useful storage compartments essential when transporting large families. Th e third row of seats though, as with nearly all of these seven-seater SUVs, are only suitable for small people or very short journeys.

Two specifi cations – EX and Platinum – are off ered priced at €37,990 and €41,790 respectively. Th e EX features 17” Alloys. roof rack, parking sensors, climate control front / manual air con rear, and Bluetooth. Th e Platinum model adds a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery with heated front seats, a driver’s seat with 6-way power adjustment, rain sensors, rear privacy glass, a reversing camera and HID (High Intensity Discharge) lighting.

If visually the latest Sorento seems more of a relatively minor facelift than a new model, under the skin it brings signifi cant advances in fuel consumption, running costs and driving performance to make this a worthy upgrade of what was already a very competent vehicle. As a large family-friendly Crossover, it’s certainly worthy of serious consideration.

KIAKIA Sorento SorentoTe

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SPEC CHECKMake / Model Kia Sorento EX 2.2D ManualPrice as tested €37,990Engine 2199 cc DieselPower / Torque 197 PS / 436 NmMaximum Speed 190 km/hAcceleration 0-100 km/h: 9.7 secondsTransmission 4WD Torque on DemandQuoted fuel economy 5.9 l/100 km (combined cycle)CO2 Emissions 155 g/kmTowing Capacity 2,500 kg (braked)

Page 31: Fleet Car Summer 2013

Class leading

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Six speed manual transmission Steering wheel audio controls Bluetooth® hands free

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Page 32: Fleet Car Summer 2013

The UltimateDriving Machine

BMW Ireland

bmw.ie

IT’S A WIN-WIN-WIN SITUATION.BMW, WINNER OF 3 AWARDS AT MOTORCHECK.IEFLEET CAR AWARDS 2013.We’re delighted to announce that the BMW 3 Series, the BMW 5 Series, and the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé have won awards at the Motorcheck.ie Fleet Car Awards 2013. We’re particularly proud, as these awards are based not only on the quality of our cars, but also on the service and support provided to corporate customers by BMW. Plus, this latest success comes hot on the heels ofbeing voted the most reputable and trusted organisation in Ireland.* Seems like if it’s worth winning, we’ve won it. If you’d like to share the spoils, contact your local authorised BMW dealer for a test drive.

* Source: Ireland RepTrak™ 2013 study, based on 14,000 consumer ratings from members of the general public in Ireland.