IRELAND’S FOREMOST FLEET & CORPORATE SECTOR GUIDE

Volume 13. No. 3. Winter 2014

New Ford Mondeo -New Ford Mondeo -Back on top of the World!Back on top of the World!

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• INTERVIEW: New Ford Ireland Management Team• AWARDS: APMP Car of the Year 2015• TECHNOLOGY: Texaco Techron • TEST: Citroën CactusPlus: News • Junction Box • Launch Pad • Fleeting Shots

4 News• Irish TISPOL President calls for Safer Dublin• EU reuses low emission plan• Renault-Nissan passes 200,000th EVs• Don’t drive when sick• New Emergency Services Driving Standard plus JUNCTION BOX

6 InterviewWith Ford Ireland’s new Senior Management Team

8 AwardsAPMP Car of the Year Award 2015

10 CoverAll-new Ford Mondeo

12 DesignAutostyle 2014 – Italy

13 TechnologyTexaco Techron works!

15 Fleeting Shots• Dakar 2015 • Diesel Consumption• 1,000 mile run

16 Launch Pad• Fresh Ford Focus • Crossover Fiat• Appealing Suzuki • Cheerful Jeep • Pulsating Nissan • Hyundai on a high! • Cheeky Twingo • 5-door Mini • Cool Corsa • Revised Audis

19 First DriveThe all new Volkswagen Passat

22 TestAward winning Citroën C4 Cactus

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www.fl eetcar.ie | 3 Contents Winter 2014

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4 | NEWS I

FLEETCAR | Winter 2014

EU revises its ultra-low emission vehicle strategy

Renault-Nissan Alliance Sells its 200,000th Electric Vehicle

European Union Member States must lay out plans for a network of electric vehicle charging points by the end of

2016, under a new Directive adopted by the European Parliament. Th e Directive sets out infrastructure targets for all 28 Member States covering electric, natural gas and hydrogen fuel cell models, to be in place by the end of 2025.

Th e new law means that the EU has dropped the 2020 targets it had set for the number of hydrogen fi lling stations and electric charging points Member Countries must install.

Instead, the Directive recommends a network of one charging point per ten electric vehicles registered in the country by 2020. It also stipulates that there should be common plug and standards for usage across the region. Th is is expected to be the Combined Charging System and Type 2 AC plug.

Cameras save lives

Safety cameras on Irish roads have saved 71 lives over the past three years, according to research by the Department of Transport. Economist Derek Raff erty said a signifi cant number of injuries had also been prevented during the same period, and the cameras yielded an overall net benefi t of some €70 million annually.

Mr. Raff erty, who was speaking at the 11th Irish Society of New Economists Conference in Galway, said the research was based upon a comprehensive controlled study. It compared deaths and injuries at sites where safety cameras were positioned against locations that did not have a camera present.

Car parking blunders cost motorists Car park prangs are second only to rear-end shunts as the most common kind of car accident. Most parking incidents take place at slow speeds but that does not stop motorists damaging doors, wheels, bumpers and other parts of the bodywork.

A possible contributing factor is that today’s larger vehicles are now squeezing into parking spaces of only 237.5cm in width – the average carpark space size – leaving drivers of the latest Golf for instance, at 203cm wide, with only 17.25cm either side. In comparison, the original Golf MK1 was just 171cm wide.

Liz Fisher of Accident Exchange said: “Th e fact is, though, that drivers are having to squeeze their larger cars into smaller spaces and there are many more car journeys made than just a decade ago. On top of that, visibility from inside the cabin of new cars is compromised compared to older vehicles, which used far more glass and had lower sills and narrower pillars. Th at could be part of the explanation for the recent increase.” Drivers 'Frustrated' By Passengers

Where two members of staff are travelling together in the same vehicle, a new survey has revealed that many drivers fi nd that passengers can be a disruptive and potentially dangerous infl uence. At least one-in-three drivers had fallen out with a passenger while travelling.

Th e poll highlights that in 15 percent of instances, tensions have reached such a point that the driver opted to throw the passenger out of the vehicle. Fleet managers should be aware of this and off er suitable training and advice to their employees.

Th e potential for distraction and dispute might partly explain why three-quarters of drivers admit to feeling more nervous when

New TISPOL President, Chief Superintendent Aidan Reid, launched a campaign to promote road safety in

his native city Dublin, with a particular focus on vulnerable road users. While road fatalities have reduced signifi cantly in the Dublin region in recent years, pedestrians still remain the single biggest group to die on the roads in our capital. Since 2008, nearly two out of every fi ve fatal road traffi c collisions involved a pedestrian losing their life and to date in 2014, seven of the eighteen road fatalities were pedestrians.

In order to address this signifi cant issue, and as part of a new road safety campaign entitled “Safer Roads for Dublin”, An Garda Síochána, is working with various partners to target pedestrians through social media, a poster campaign on public transport, the distribution of hi-viz merchandise, and specifi c safety awareness initiatives, with a view to increasing their own road safety awareness and thus reducing the number of fatal and serious injury collisions involving pedestrians.

Commenting on the campaign, CS Aidan Reid said: “Our pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are most at risk, which increases when coming

into contact with speeding vehicles. Our “Safer Roads for Dublin” aims to protect every road user, but in particular the most vulnerable. All the Local Authorities, Public Transport providers, National Roads Authority and the Road Safety Authority are playing their part in this campaign.”

"Most importantly though, the public have a big part to play, and together we can save lives, reduce the number of casualties and make 'Safer Roads for Dublin'. We appeal to every road user to help us make that happen."

“So far this year in Dublin there has been in excess of 35,000 speeding detections, over 1,000 drivers arrested for intoxicated driving, 1,800 plus detections for not wearing a safety belt and nearly 7,000 drivers detected holding a mobile phone whilst driving - this is not safe driving for you or anyone else around you, and this risk taking will be targeted as part of the enforcement activities for this campaign,” he concluded.

New TISPOL President launches safety campaign for Dublin

In early November, Renault-Nissan Alliance recorded the sale of its 200,000th Electric Vehicle (EV) and currently enjoys a leading

58% market share for zero-emission cars.

Together, Renault and Nissan EVs have driven approximately 4 billion zero-emission kilometres – enough to circle the earth 100,000 times. Renault-Nissan’s EVs represent 200 million litres of fuel saved – enough to fi ll about 80 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Alliance EVs also represent 450 million kg of CO2 that has not been emitt ed while driving.

Th e Alliance sold its 200,000th EV, about four years

aft er the launch of the Nissan Leaf, the world’s fi rst mass-market electric vehicle and which remains the best-selling electric vehicle in history. Th e French/Japanese partnership sells about t wo out of three electric vehicles worldwide, including Twizy, Renault’s two-seater urban commuter vehicle and the Nissan e-NV200 van on sale in Europe and Japan.

www.fl eetcar.ie

NEWS II | 5

The season for coughs and colds is now upon us and that means individuals up and down the country will be

soldiering on even when they feel like death warmed up, heading into work and going about their daily routines when all they really want is to curl up in bed.

Fleet managers and other road users should be aware that driving when unwell can be a recipe for disaster, so they should try to avoid it when possible if they are feeling under the weather.

Failure to heed the signs of illness can lead to some serious implications for motorists, as being ill can not only impact an individual's concentration, but it can also considerably increase their reaction times - both issues that drivers should wish to avoid at all costs.

It might be that many people choose to fi ght the symptoms of illness with medication in order to continue to go about their daily lives as normal, but in these cases drivers should also be wary, as while many over-the-counter treatments can reduce symptoms like a runny nose or sneezing, some can also cause drowsiness.

Therefore, anyone planning to take to the roads after consuming medication should always examine the side-eff ects of what they are taking fi rst.

Fleet managers advise that their drivers need to be aware of the dangers of sneezing and coughing at the wheel, as they will travel on average up to 50 ft with their eyes closed every time they sneeze.

“All of these issues combined mean that the autumn and winter can be a treacherous time for road users should they fall ill. “Adverse weather is also more likely at this time of year, which can lead to an increased risk of being involved in an accident. Fleet managers should seriously advise their drivers to avoid taking to the roads when they are struck by illness,” commented Dan Crosby, brand manager of Fleet Management specialists MileageCount.

Last month the Road Safety Authority (RSA) launched the Emergency Services Driving Standard (ESDS)

which aims to reduce the risks associated with driving emergency services vehicles. To ensure patients and passengers are safe and comfortable and to ensure road safety best practice is employed when driving emergency services vehicles. ESDS is the result of collaboration between the RSA and An Garda Síochána, Civil Defence, Defence Forces, Irish Coast Guard, Irish Prison Service, National Ambulance Service, the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council, National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, and the Chief Fire Offi cers Association.

Th e Road Safety Authority has overseen the development of this new Standard, which will be voluntarily implemented by the principal emergency service organisations in Ireland. Ms. Moyagh Murdock, CEO, Road Safety Authority (RSA) formally launched the new Standard at a special event at Farmleigh House. At the event, att endees were given an overview of

the new Emergency Services Driving Standard, its aims and objectives.

In att endance were Ms. Moyagh Murdock, Chief Executive Offi cer, Road Safety Authority; Mr. Dave Carroll, Chief Fire Offi cers' Association; Mr. Barry O’Sullivan, Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council; Governor Michael Cosgrove, Irish Prison Service and Mr. Gerard O’Flynn, Irish Coast Guard.

Avoid driving when ill

they have somebody in the car with them.

Nearly half of respondents said they prefer to be on their own, while just a quarter said they would rather have some company during a trip in the car.

Strong New Car Sales in EU

October saw strong growth in the European new car sales market, with sales up by 7.0% compared to the same period last year, according to the latest analysis from JATO Dynamics. Growth was again driven by higher demand in Europe’s big 5 markets with sales in Spain up 31.1% year-on-year, Great Britain had double-digit growth of 14.2% year-to-date and Italy up 9.6% year-to-date.

Four of the ‘Big 5’ European car markets registered growth in October, making a signifi cant contribution to the strong overall growth seen during the month. Th is was the highest rate of overall growth in the European market since March of this year. Germany’s sales grew 3.7%, slightly more than its year-to-date increase of 3.0%. Th e French market declined 3.8% in October, but remains ahead of 2013 year-to-date by 1.4%.

Sligo Motor Trader’s BEN Ball 2014

Pictured at the 43rd annual Sligo Motor Trader’s BEN Ball 2014 at the Sligo Park Hotel were Jarlath Sweeney, Fleet Transport; Con Dalton, SIMI and Joe Corcoran, President, Motorsport Ireland.

Over the years €80,000 has been raised by the Motor Traders in the North West on behalf of BEN, the Society of the Irish Motor Industry’s (SIMI) dedicated charity for automotive industry, which off ers practical and financial help, support, advice and friendship to those who work, or have worked in the automotive and related industries, and to their family dependants.

Road Safety Authority launches Emergency Services Driving Standard (ESDS)

FLEETCAR | Winter 2014

6 | INTERVIEW

JS. Ciaran, you will be focusing on the MD role now fr om here on in. Once you ‘get your legs under the table’, what’s your plan?

CMcM. I’ve a clear high level plan in my mind but the most immediate plan is what we’ve just launched to our dealer body, a strategic plan to gain back market leadership in 2015. Th at is the most important goal at this point to make sure the dealers are fully enthused and are fully aware of what’s on the table, be fully aware of our product range and be fully aware of the potential that’s there. So, our market leadership goal for next year is key to a successful 2015.

JS. But the marketplace has changed dramatically, since the previous generation Mondeo came out, as the Korean brands have come on very strong, and the German brands have sold extremely well – so is your task a litt le more diffi cult, even though the market is growing?

CMcM. Yes, I accept that the Koreans have come on a lot stronger, they’ve been challenging us, and have been growing their share fi nancially over the last 3, 4 or 5 years especially in the CD segment. So that’s one of the challenges, our Mondeo was delayed in coming to launch. We’re a couple of years behind the line – it was launched in the States as the Fusion but we believe now we have the right product. We’re very happy with the product. It’s come at the right time for Ireland, we can talk about the missing two years but that’s history, so let’s talk about the future. We believe the product is excellent, we’ve driven it, we love it, we think it is fantastic. So, we are confi dent we are going to double and maybe treble our sales next year versus 2014. Our aspiration is a minimum 3,000 units which will get us about 2.7% share of the national market.

JS. Michael, the timing of the Mondeo launch is right, with a good lead-in now, as the marketplace is in transition?

MR. I think the whole timing for us has been fantastic, we pushed the timing to be honest with Ford Europe, we pushed them to the limit because we are the fi rst in Europe to launch – we said we need the car or else we’ll miss Q1 – we miss next year, we’re history. We’ve pushed them and we’ve got a commitment. We’ll have 1,000 units on the ground by Christmas which is fantastic news,

the industry is on the up. We have market share aspirations next year so I think there is a lot of strands of positivity coming through at the same time, I won’t say it’s a perfect storm but there’s a lot of stuff happening, there is a rising tide and we are very positive that it’s going to make a good impact next year.

JS. One of the fortes within the Ford brand is you’re a strong dealer network, some are long traditional Ford dealers. Some were lost during the downturn but do you see any further changes within the dealership structure under your regime?

CMcM. Yes, it’s a growing issue, dealer representation, as a whole. Ford Ireland will put up their hands and say we have too many dealers, it’s a historical issue. We did lose quite a number of dealers, 7 or 8 back in the early days of the recession and that was the initial bang, but we haven’t lost anybody since. I believe there will be some more national att rition over the next couple of years but we don’t intend implementing a strategy of ‘slash and burn’ unlike some of our competitors have. We will take an approach of looking at the national att rition level and then see do we need to tweak it further.

JS. Have you gaps in between? I know the West for example, was badly hit. CMcM. As it stands at the moment, we don’t believe we have any representation gaps in the country. Geographical and physical gaps we have, we do not see them as representation points that would justify business for a Ford dealer. While there may be a certain number of kilometres between dealers I don’t think this business case would justify a dealership and with the road structure hugely improving over the last 10 years you can get to any Ford dealer probably maximum in 40 minutes so we don’t see that as an issue.

JS. John, on the marketing side – the pressure is on with lots of new products launched?

JM. In many ways I have the worse job, but also the best job – the worst job probably is translated in the long hours but the best job is when you can announce the product line up that’s coming

over the next 12 months which is nothing short of fantastic. Just to see the dealer body and our fl eet customers and indeed the press; the enthusiasm just makes the job worthwhile.

JS. With all this positive energy and the good will that is there, how are you going to translate that into more sales?

JM. Well, at the end of the day it’s all about numbers and us marketeers are the creative ones and sometimes accused of not being in reality. But I can assure you I’m very much in reality having come from a sales environment and the numbers count here. We have really planned for the arrival of the all-new Mondeo as carefully as we can and all-new Focus. We have announced a heavy weighted media campaign. Coming through in terms of next year, we will have a new C-MAX in Q2 a new S-MAX, Galaxy, Vignale, Mustang of course and a new Ford Edge in Q4. We have to ensure, because in my mind, we have without question the best line up we ever had. It’s now time that we let our customers know we have this fantastic product range. How are we going to communicate it? It’s an ongoing development and certainly you’ll see it. All I’ll say is watch this space come from January!

JS. Pardon the Pun but is there more focus on the Mondeo than on the revamped Focus?

JM. Well Mondeo is obviously an incredibly important car for us as Ciaran said earlier we’d have loved to have this 18 months ago but as I said to our dealers recently - that’s history, you move forward in this business and in truth it’s a car that has been worth waiting for. We are conscious of Focus which to be honest has been our bread and butt er, it’s been the food that fed our dealers and is the car that has been most liked by our customers in recent years. We’re very conscious of that and in that mindset (because normally when you have a budget it’s heavily weighted towards the all new car) we have made a strategic decision to invest equally in Focus so Focus basically will have its place and the customers and indeed the dealers will also see the investment that we are putt ing behind all new Focus as equal to Mondeo.

Read full interview on www.fl eetcar.ie

One-to-One:with Ford Ireland’s new Senior Management Team, Ciaran McMahon, incoming Managing Director; Michael Ring, Commercial Vehicle Manager and John Manning, Marketing Managerwith Jarlath Sweeney,Managing Editor, Fleet Car

Pictured are John Manning, Michael Ring & Ciaran McMahon

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FLEETCAR | Winter 2014 Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie

8 | AWARDS

T he latest Nissan Qashqai has added yet another prestigious title to its name having been recently voted ‘Car of the Year for 2015’ by the Association of Professional Motoring Press. Th e announcement was made at the Association’s

inaugural awards ceremony held at the Powerscourt Hotel & Resort, Enniskerry, County Wicklow on 6 October att ended by leading fi gures from the motor industry.

Commenting on the award, Chief Executive Offi cer Nissan Ireland, James McCarthy said; “We are delighted to receive the award for APMP Car of the Year 2015. Th e Qashqai has been phenomenally successful since its arrival in 2007. It pioneered the crossover segment of cars at the time and has consistently been one of Ireland’s top-selling cars ever since. Th e new 2015 Qashqai has been greatly received and sets new benchmarks for the segment again. We truly believe that the new Qashqai is the best, bett ered and this award along with the host of titles the new Nissan Qashqai has received since it was launched earlier this year is testament to that.”

Th e APMP Car of the Year award further solidifi es the new Nissan Qashqai’s reputation having earlier this year been awarded WhatCar? Magazine Car of the Year, Fleet Car’s Crossover Car of the Year 2014, as well as being named as the Sunday Times’ Best Car Buy for 2015.

Speaking about the inaugural awards, APMP Chairperson Michael Sheridan said; “APMP awards are adjudicated on by the most respected motoring writers in Ireland from national newspapers, magazines, Radio

and TV to the best internet commentators. With over 45 publications among the voter’s outlets, the awards are highly credible and desired by all car and van manufacturers.”

Members of the APMP awarded their votes based on a number of key criteria including design, safety features, fuel economy, comfort and technology.

Nissan Qashqai Voted APMP Car of the Year 2015

A total of 17 awards were awarded on the night including the overall APMP Car of the Year 2015 and APMP Van of the Year 2015.

APMP Car of the Year 2015 - Nissan QashqaiAPMP Van of the Year 2015 - Fiat Ducato/ PSA Peugeot Boxer/Citroën RelayAPMP City Car of the Year 2015 - Hyundai i10APMP Small Car of the Year 2015 - MINI HatchAPMP Family Car of the Year 2015 - Audi A3 SaloonAPMP Large Family Car of the Year 2015 - Mercedes-Benz C-ClassAPMP Performance Car of the Year 2015 - Alfa Romeo 4CAPMP Luxury Car of the Year 2015 - Audi A8APMP Coupé/Cabriolet of the Year 2015 - BMW 2 SeriesAPMP Small SUV of the Year 2015 - Citroën C4 CactusAPMP Mid size SUV of the Year 2015 - Nissan QashqaiAPMP Large SUV of the Year 2015 - Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

In the Van categories the winners were:

APMP City Van of the Year 2015 - Ford Transit CourierAPMP Small Van of the Year 2015 - Ford Transit ConnectAPMP Panel Van of the Year 2015 - Fiat Ducato/PSA Peugeot Boxer/Citroën Relay APMP Business SUV of the Year 2015 - Land Rover Discovery Business

Th e APMP Innovation Award 2015 - Mitsubishi PHEV technology

APMP Car of the Year 2015 - Nissan Qashqai Chairperson Michael Sheridan and Nissan CEO James McCarthy

APMP Award Winners

APMP Jury Members

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10 | COVER

FLEETCAR | Winter 2014 Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie

S afety is to the fore with the all-new Ford Mondeo just launched in Ireland. Innovative technologies premiered in the new fi ve-door and wagon variants include Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Infl atable Rear Seatbelt and new Air

Filtration System. But that’s not all, as timeless design, fuel-effi cient and low emission drivetrains together with a whole host of electronic wizardry will draw customers back to the ‘blue-oval’ D-segment car.

Ford Ireland is quite pleased with the responses to its new off ering; “We are delighted at the reaction to the all new Mondeo - it really is a beautiful-looking car that has the great driving dynamics that have become synonymous with Ford cars,” stated Eddie Murphy, Chairman & Managing Director.

Although two years in coming to market, the wait has been worthwhile. First introduced in North America as the Fusion, the same car has been modifi ed substantially for Europe. Built now in Valencia, generation four Mondeo is true to its model name and true to its brand heritage. Th e Spanish plant, which has benefi ted from substantial investment, following the closure of the Belgian factory that made it here-to-fore, will now use precision laser technology in the new Mondeo’s assembly process. From our test drives around Malaga and around County Wicklow, the Mondeo’s excellent driving characteristics are still there, even bett er in fact, and are allied to new powertrains, some of which will be introduced in a phased basis over the next year or so.

Two trim levels will be marketed initially: Zetec and Titanium. Th ere will be a Style entry-level model in due course. Th is version is likely to have Ford’s award winning 1.0 litre EcoBoost 125PS petrol along with the new 1.5 litre 160PS variant of same. For the mainstream market, the 115PS 1.6 litre TDCi, (with a starting price from €28,995) and 2.0 litre with 150PS will be sold for now, with the new 1.5 litre Euro 6 TDCi coming in 2015. Two other interesting additions are to follow also - a four-door Hybrid combining a 2.0 litre 187PS petrol with an electric motor and 1.4 kWh lithium-ion batt ery, delivering a mere 99g/km in CO2 emissions. Also to come is an all-wheel-drive version, powered by the 2.0 litre 150 PS TDCi. A Powershift automatic will be an option for the fi rst time.

Standard specifi cation on all-new Mondeo Zetec includes; 16” alloy wheels, front fog lamps, quickclear windscreen, day-time running lights, trip computer, MyKey, SYNC, cruise control, leather steering wheel/gear lever, power front and rear windows and Auto Start Stop. Mondeo Titanium features; 17” alloy wheels, chrome door-line, auto lights and wipers, power-fold mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, Lane Keeping Aid, Traffi c Sign Recognition, SYNC Gen 2, 8” touchscreen sport seats and auto dimming mirror.

Ciaran McMahon, Ford Ireland’s Sales Director and incoming Managing Director, is very confi dent that the new Mondeo will return to favour in the fl eet sector. “It’s an att ractive fl eet off ering for the user chooser and we expect that 50% of sales will come from the corporate segment, especially with the high specifi cation levels off ered with the Titanium,” he said. Ford Ireland is looking to sell 3,000 units in 2015, double the amount of the outgoing model from this year. With his fl eet team, Ciaran aims to hit the ground running with plenty of vehicles brought in from Spain in good time for the New Year sales campaign.

A noteworthy safety feature is pre-collision assist allied to pedestrian detection system. It can detect people in or near the road ahead, or who may cross the vehicle’s path

and automatically applies the brakes if the driver does not respond to warnings.

Another fi tt ing of note is Ford’s industry fi rst Infl atable Rear Seat Seatbelt technology, which put simply is an airbag wrapped around the seatbelt that helps save rear passengers from bruising to the upper body in the case of an incident.

Climate change and pollution contribute to increasing numbers of people suff ering from allergies, and sneezing at a speed of 100kp/h may result in “driving blind” for up to 20 metres. Ford is introducing a new air fi ltration system on the all-new Mondeo, that blocks up to 99 per cent of pollen, almost all nitrogen dioxide – a key trigger of asthma and hay fever – as well as gaseous pollutants and odours.

Hay fever suff erers alone – more than a quarter of Europeans – now cope with a pollen season that extends 10 months of the year, and are a third more likely to be in a collision.

We were impressed with the fi rst drive of the new 1.5 litre 160 PS petrol. Comfort levels were high with road holding and handling excellent on the twisty sections. Th e vast roominess that was there from the old model extends even more! Later that aft ernoon, the new Hybrid was given a go. Again the drivetrain was even smoother thanks to the petrol/electric drivetrain and automatic Powersplit CVT system. Th e next day was the turn of the 2.0 litre 180 PS diesel which was a joy.

From both the centre console with its large screen and SYNC infotainment technology to the main binnacle behind the steering there is an array of touch screen and push butt on information to be obtained.

On top of the World! - Fourth Generation Ford MondeoFourth Generation Ford Mondeo

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FLEETCAR | Winter 2014 Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie

12 | DESIGN

Autostyle 2014: Breeding ground for future talent

P alazzo Te, in the beautiful suburbs of Mantua, Italy - a prestigious venue to exhibit prestigious prize-winning car designs. Th e Renaissance ‘villa’ built by the painter and architect Giulio Romano (1499-1546) played host to the

11th edition of Autostyle Design Competition. Th e “Special Versions” created by twelve budding designers were foremost in the International contest promoted by Berman S.p.A. with the support of institutional and private partners.

Once again the world’s most important car designers and the young designers who will impose their style in the coming years were brought together for the annual competition. Within the Palace grounds the Esedra garden was the sett ing for the cars’ exhibition while the Frutt iere, a popular location for artistic events, became the House of Design. Visitors had the opportunity to see models, projects and images describing the Design Centres’ activities and a special show of the “Golden Book” which chronicled the most talented students who took part in Autostyle’s past editions, now working as designers in Design Centres all over the world. “Th e quality of the work presented indicates a clear demonstration that Autostyle is a breeding ground for talent of this nature,” according to Roberto Artiloi, Chief Executive Offi cer at Berman S.p.A.

Th e two-day event opened with workshops on how new car models are created in Design Centres. Aft er the opening ceremony, Jaguar designer César Pieri illustrated the birth of Jaguar Project 7. Representing Renault, Tibor Juhasz, the Design Director for concept cars along with Axel Breun explained about “Th e new design of Renault”. Th e prologue of the day was into the hands of two chief designers: Claudio Messale (Ford Europe), revealed “Th e 50 years edition Ford Mustang”, while Filippo Perini (Lamborghini), talked about “Th e Huracán Project”.

Marco Vendrame (Italdesign) opened his workshop, which was about the concept car Parcour. Flavio Manzoni (Ferrari) explained the birth of the new California model. At the end, Roberto Giolito (Fiat) focused on the presentation of the new Fiat 500X.

Th e 12 selected young designers were shortlisted for the grand fi nal. Th is year they were asked to elaborate “Special versions” based on the following models: Peugeot 108, Jeep Renegade, Jaguar F-Type Coupé, Maserati Alfi eri (concept car) and Volvo XC Coupé (concept car).Th e judging panel consisted of the President; Fulvio Cinti (Auto&Design magazine), Alessandro Maccolini (Alfa Romeo), Klemens Rossnagel (Audi), Flavio Manzoni (Ferrari), Roberto Giolito (Fiat), Claudio Messale (Ford), Wolfgang Egger (Italdesign), Filippo Perini (Lamborghini), Anna Costamagna (Peugeot-Citroën) and Robin Page (Volvo).

Erik Saetre from Norway (Norwegian University of Science & Technology) and Xavier Delvallée from France (Isd de Valenciennes) were elected as the main prize-winners. Erik’s version of Volvo XC Coupé was judged the best in the category Sports Cars (Amams Award), while Xavier’s version of the new Jeep Renegade in the category Urban cars/Crossover (Berman Award) stood out from the rest. Other successful candidates were Antonio Paglia, a 30 years old student at Politecnico di Milano, who won the Auto & Design’s Creativity Award with his version of Peugeot 108. Th e Audience prize went to Andrea Zuanni, (25) from IED (Istituto europeo di design di Torino).

The Car ExhibitionAll around the exquisite Esedra garden was an impressive exhibition of 20 cars that were chosen as ‘the most challenging models of 2014’. For example, the new Ferrari California, Huracán Lamborghini, Fiat 500X, Jeep Renegade and the new models designed by Renault, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, BMW, Bentley, Jaguar, Audi, Peugeot and Citroën.

Roberto Artiloi, Chief Executive Offi cer at Berman S.p.A.Autostyle Design Award Winners 2014

TECHNOLOGY | 13

Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fl eet.ie www.fl eetcar.ie

he idea of adding a litt le something to the fuel tank to enhance vehicle performance is not new. Unfortunately some companies promoted their products with claims based on some dubious science. This ultimately left

motorists disappointed, and tarnished the name of reputable additive producers. Now one manufacturer, Texaco Chevron is fi ghting back with the launch of its Techron fuel system cleaner.

Techron was fi rst introduced in the United States over thirty-fi ve years ago, and has since earned a respected reputation. Now Texaco is making Techron available to the Irish market for both petrol and diesel cars, and the product looks set to change people’s minds on additives.

In the endless quest to reduce fuel consumption, the modern fuel system has become an incredibly refi ned work of engineering. However with increasing refi nement comes an equal reduction in the system’s ability to tolerate contaminants. Over time these contaminants leave residues and deposits, which can dramatically aff ect vehicle performance. Brian Hayes, Channel Program Specialist at Chevron describes the deposits as being similar to a domestic oven, and just like the oven it is possible to clean the deposits and restore performance. Although he points out that if the oven is already clean then no benefi ts will be gained from using Techron.

Texaco stated that applying Techron will not just clean the fuel system and injectors, it will go further and help to clean valves, spark plugs and the combustion chamber. Th e company says it cleans by soft ening and oxidising the deposits, allowing them to disintegrate, and ultimately be burned and expelled with the exhaust gas.

While Texaco maybe aware of the motoring public’s perception of additives, it is also aware that we (the public) would like additives to work. To set Techron apart, Texaco engaged Emissions Analytics, an independent testing company to assess and verify the potential benefi ts of Techron. Director of Emissions Analytics, Nick Molden explained in detail the testing methodology and the parameters used to provide repeatable results. Emissions Analytics used the widely accepted Portable Emission Measuring System (PEMS) device to analyse exhaust gases and determine the outcomes.

Emissions Analytics bought a variety of second-hand roadworthy paired cars from auctions. For example they would buy two Opel Astras between three to fi ve years old, with between 50,000 to 80,000 kms on the clock. Before being treated with Techron the cars where checked to ensure there were no major defects that might compromise the fi ndings, and to confi rm the vehicles were otherwise standard road cars.

Th e fi ndings presented by Nick Molden showed a clear improvement in all the pairs tested, with the exception of one. For petrol engines the average improvement in peak power was 2.6%. Equally signifi cant fi gures were recorded for reductions in CO2, and fuel consumption, 7.4% g/km and 8.7% respectively.

Nick’s presentation certainly makes a good case for the benefi cial

qualities of Techron. Th e research methodology appears to account for all eventualities and so lends credibility to the fi ndings. Refl ecting on the fi ndings Nick says “it's simply the case that there is something about Techron that works.”

Techron will not be available in regular motor-factors and retail outlets. Th e sole distributor for Techron in Ireland is the Advanced Pitstop Group. Eddie Ryan, Marketing Director at Advance Pitstop is ready to advise customers on a complete effi ciency plan for their cars - which may include Techron. Th ough the plan will address many other issues as part of a fuel effi ciency programme. Eddie stated: “the cost of one treatment is €19.99, and depending on mileage, one 350 ml dose would be required every six to twelve months.”

For the typical motorist on the general mixed mileage of commuting and running around, it may be diffi cult to notice a major improvement. Nevertheless Texaco stands over its fi gures, and on that basis the company’s reputation stands alongside these claims. Th is should convince motorists there is something to be gained with Techron, and the case is strongly supported by the fi gures from Emissions Analytics.

Where the product may also help the motorist is to prevent or reduce the potential for damage caused by contaminated or poor quality fuel - whether the engine is clean or not.

WORKS

Average % Change In Petrol DieselPeak Power 2.6% 3.4%CO2 Emissions -7.4% -8.7%Kilometres per Litre 8.7% 7.6%

Pictured (l-r) Nick Molden (Emissions Analytics); Eddie Ryan (Advance Pitstop); Brian Hayes (Chevron) and James Welchman (Chevron).

Injector deposits – before Techron

Injector deposits – aft er Techron

ALL-NEW FORD MONDEOCOMING SOON

ford.ie

FLEETING SHOTS | 15

Text: Jarlath Sweeney - editor@fl eet.ie www.fl eetcar.ie

8 ALL4 Racing MINIs to compete in the 2015 Dakar

Ireland’s Turas Mile Mile

For the 2015 Dakar Rally (3-17 January) the X-raid team, supported by MINI, has revealed a strong line-up for the 37th edition of the world’s most famous long-distance Cross-

Country rally. A total of eight ALL4 Racing MINIs with driver crews from ten countries will take on the ultimate motorsport adventure that is the Dakar Rally. Defending Dakar champions Joan “Nani” Roma (ES) and co-driver Michel Périn (FR) will lead the Monster Energy Rally Raid Team while the experienced driver pairings Orlando Terranova/Bernardo “Ronnie” Graue (AR/AR) and Krzysztof Holowczyc/Xavier Panseri (PL/FR) complete the line-up. Th ere will also be fi ve customer driver pairings in MINI ALL4 Racing cars built by the German-based X-raid GmbH. For the MINI brand the 2015 Dakar Rally is the next chapter of a unique success story, which culminated in three consecutive Dakar victories as well as three titles in a row in the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies, both from 2012 to 2014. Th e 2015 Dakar promises to be the most demanding edition since the Dakar moved from Africa to South America in 2009. “With its extremely demanding route and highly challenging racing conditions the Dakar Rally is not only a thrilling off -road event to millions of motorsport fans, it is also the ultimate test for drivers, teams and cars alike,” says Jochen Goller, Senior Vice President MINI.

With several new and reinstated competitive stages the Dakar will be another adventurous trip for both drivers and teams. From merciless gravel sections to the breathtaking heights of the Andes, from the sweltering heat of the Atacama desert to the tricky soft dunes, the competitors are oft en making their way into the unknown, facing unforeseeable obstacles. Th is is what makes the Dakar Rally the ultimate motorsport challenge. Starting out in Buenos Aires (AR) and traveling in a great loop across the South American continent through Chile and Bolivia back to Argentina, more than 9,000 challenging kilometres is the task at hand for all competitors.

A holidaying company car driver at Toomey Leasing Group has achieved 990 miles on one tank of fuel from his Opel/Vauxhall Insignia 2.0 CDTi Sri.

Aft er using his company Insignia to drive his family of four on a round trip of 3,200 miles from the UK to Naples in Italy, Sales Manager, Dino Landico, was able to achieve an average of 59mpg – impressive for a fully-loaded car. “Even with all our luggage, driving the Insignia meant I was able to take my family on holiday without spending a fortune,” explained Dino.

Martin Wroe, Managing Director of Toomey Leasing Group explained: “Lowering carbon emissions is a key priority for the company which is one of the reasons behind why we have chosen the Vauxhall Insignia, which has CO2 emissions of just 98g/km, for our company’s fl eet. “As these cars are used by our employees outside of work as well, low fuel consumption is even more important, so it’s very encouraging that we have already received such positive feedback from those who have noticed a diff erence. Since our employees will be using these vehicles at home as well as at work we needed to choose a model that would be versatile enough for all kinds of situations.”

Last September, the Wolseley Car Club of Ireland organised a week long 2014 Turas Míle Míle rally around Ireland for the third time. Limited to 80 cars, it was open to all vehicles

manufactured before 31 December 1939. Th e Rally started and fi nished in Dublin, with overnight stops at Clonmel, Bantry, (two nights), Adare, Westport, and Cavan, before fi nishing at Powerscourt, County Wicklow, where a Gala Dinner and Prizegiving ceremony was held.

It was a competitive event, but suitable for novices, with driving tests undertaken inside private estates all around Ireland. Th e route took the vintage cars through some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland, visiting many interesting and historical places. According to vintage Lancia owner Leo Van Hoorick from Belgium, who was among the many overseas visitors, the emphasis was on having fun, enjoying driving on quiet roads, meeting new people, and renewing old friendships, plus of course, sampling the famous Irish hospitality.

Th e Wolseley Car Club of Ireland was founded in August 1995, as a result of the successful Wolseley Centenary, held in June 1995 at Mount Wolseley, Tullow, Co. Carlow, the ancestral home of Frederick York Wolseley. Initially, the Club catered mainly for Wolseley owners, with members att ending many shows as a Club, and running a weekend rally each year in diff erent parts of the country. As the years passed, the club has att racted other cars, many of a more sporting type.

1594 km across Europe on one tank of diesel!

The best selling Ford Focus has been signif icantly rejuvenated, and looks set to

maintain its status as one of Ireland’s most popular fl eet cars.

Visually there are updates externally and internally with a new smart looking front face and smaller rear lights giving the Focus a more Fiesta like appearance. Inside the Focus has a more premium feel than before while technology wise the main update is the introduction of the second generation of Ford’s connectivity system, SYNC 2, now displayed via a new eight inch colour touch screen. It will only be available as an optional extra on Irish cars though. Also optionally available is ‘perpendicular parking’ park assist, a new

hands-free parking technology.

Keen drivers have long loved the Focus for its responsive feel and agility and the good

news is that improvements to the suspension set up and electric power steering ensure it remains one of the most enjoyable cars to drive currently on the market.

New 1.5 litre petrol and diesel engines feature, though Ford will only be off ering the 1.5 litre Ecoboost as a special order. Th e 1.0 litre Ecoboost remains though, and from initial test drive is arguably a nicer engine than the bigger capacity unit. Th e 95PS and 115PS 1.6 litre diesels are carried over from the old model as is the 150PS 2.0 diesel.

Available in a choice of four trim levels, prices for the new Focus start from €20,295.

A fresh Focus for Ford’s family and fl eet favourite

Fiat’s new 500X, due to arrive in Quarter 2 2015, is set to be the brand’s most important model

in a generation. Competing in the burgeoning Crossover sector, it’s arguably the most mainstream model yet from the expanding 500 family. which now includes the 500MPW and 500L as well as the diminutive original. With sales in the segment continuing to grow, Fiat has high hopes the 500X will open the brand to a whole new range of customers.

A stylish and well proportioned car, the 500X retains the basic silhouett e of the 500 but in a bigger more rugged form. Size wise it will compete in the compact crossover segment against rivals like the Nissan Juke. Two versions will be off ered, one aimed at ‘urban’ users, while the Cross and Cross Plus trim levels include body cladding that give a

more off -road appearance. Th ere’s also some engineering substance behind the looks though as the 500X shares the same platform as the forthcoming Jeep Renegade, including a four wheel drive system and nine speed automatic gearbox.

Fiat has spent a deal of eff ort in making the cabin a pleasant environment in which to spend time and it shows., looking and feeling like a grown up 500. A comfortable and adjustable driving position, and decent room for passengers front and back means it shapes up well as a family car. It also drives quite well with good steering feedback, and a pleasing balance between ride and handling, while noise levels are pleasantly muted.

Engine options include 1.4 petrol and 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesels, with the 120hp diesel likely to account for most sales, and is a

refi ned and willing performer. Prices have yet to be fi nalised, but Fiat says the 500X will fi t somewhere between entry level and premium brand rivals.

Suzuk i has launched a new challenger in the City Car segment. The Celerio, a conventionally

styled small car that replaces the Alto, focuses on practicality, targeting best in class fi gures for internal space, fuel consumption and emissions.

While many rivals are sold with three doors, the Celerio offers f ive, plus seating in the back for three. Despite its diminutive size there’s decent head and legroom in the back behind average sized front seat passengers. Th e cabin itself is conservatively styled, but is solidly constructed with well laid out controls. and feels spacious for its size, thanks, Suzuki says, to using a keynote outward-facing form and making the top of the dashboard panel fl at. At the back, the boot off ers 254 litres, the biggest in the class says Suzuki.

Available immediately is the 1-litre K10B petrol engine carried over from the Alto, but March sees the arrival of the new K10C power plant. Also with a capacity of 1 litre, it features major advances in thermal effi ciency and off ers emissions as low as 84 g/km and up to 3.6l/100km (78mpg) fuel consumption.

Th ere’s a choice of a fi ve speed manual or a new automated manual transmission.

Two trim levels, GL and GLX are off ered, with air conditioning, Bluetooth and DAB radio standard across the range. Prices start from €11,995 for the GL, while the GLX, and GL with the new K10C engine can both be had for €12,995

A recent NCAP crash test only gave the Celerio three stars, though Suzuki Ireland has explained that whereas the entry model that was tested did not feature side

impact airbags leading to the poor score, all models coming into Ireland would be thus equipped.

X marks the spot as Fiat targets Crossover market with 500X

Suzuki’s new Celerio - a big small car

FLEETCAR | Winter 2014 Text: Cathal Doyle - cathal@fl eet.ie

16 | LAUNCH PAD I

Jeep, the iconic American brand is having a bit of a makeover at the present as it seeks to gain

a stronger foothold in Europe. Th e Cherokee has just been launched here, but by the end of the first quarter next year, the arrival of the Renegade, a competitor in the Crossover market, off ers Jeep its best chance yet of increasing sales in this part of the world.

A sister vehicle to Fiat’s 500X, the Renegade is the first vehicle of recently formed FCA - Fiat Chrysler Automobiles produced in cooperation between Italy and the United States. A compact SUV, rivals will include the likes of the Skoda Yeti and Nissan Juke. Like most crossovers, the majority of sales will be front wheel drive only,

though naturally being Jeep there’s a focus on the car’s 4WD and off -road capabilities. First drive impressions are of a well constructed car that can take plenty of wear and tear, and

is a rewarding car to drive. Engine wise expect most buyers to opt for the 120bhp 1.6 Multijet diesel engine. It’s well suited to the car with decent performance, and with CO2 emissions of 120g/km it won’t be excessive to tax.

For a more authentic Jeep ruggedness, the company off ers a Trailhawk version. Th is top of the range model comes with extra ground clearance and special off -road equipment. Together with the 500X it also comes with the fi rst nine-speed automatic transmission in its category.

Prices have yet to be announced but are expected to start around the mid-twenty thousands.

Cathal Doyle

The launch of Pulsar marks the return of Nissan to the ‘C’ segment,

and delivers the long awaited replacement for Almera. Th e fi ve-door hatchback has a pleasantly styled exterior that’s sure to have a wide appeal, and Pulsar comes with a high level of standard equipment that may cause the competition to review their off erings. Th is is a deliberate policy as the ‘C’ segment is the volume seller, and competition is fi erce.

However along with the high standard specifi cation some clever design features could mean that Pulsar will set new benchmarks in

the segment – especially regarding interior space. In addition, an increasingly important consideration for the public is occupant safety. Here Pulsar achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, scoring maximum points for child

occupant protection.

Other areas where Pulsar scores well are fuel fi gures, and CO2 emissions. Th e 1.5dCi diesel is rated at tax band A2 (€180 P/A) with 94g/km, and Nissan claim a combined fuel consumption of 3.6l/100 km. Pulsar is well suited to the Irish market off ering either a 1.2 litre petrol or a 1.5 diesel and 6-speed manual. An automated CVT transmission is available for the 1.2 petrol though that comes

with a premium of €2,000. Pulsar entry level prices start at €19,995 for the 1.2 DIG-T Petrol (Rated Tax Band A4 €200) and €21,595 for the 1.5 dCi Diesel (Rated Tax Band A2 €180).

Paul White

Jeep conforms to Crossover category with new Renegade

Nissan’s new Pulsating star

In 4 years Hyundai Cars Ireland has almost doubled its market share. With a

strong line-up of fresh models and a good dealer network, the Korean brand has jumped from 4.5% market share in 2011 to 8.65% in 2014 – that’s a gain of 185%.

New for Model Year 2015 is the all new i20 and a refreshed i40 range. Th e current i20 in the small hatch ‘C’ segment had slipped down the sales rakings as newer models from competitors had more appeal. Expect the i20 to jump up the sales table pronto as the more upmarket newcomer is more refi ned and off ers bett er functionality.

Slightly longer, wider, but lower, the new i20

has a longer wheelbase for bett er handling and of course, interior space. Boot room is bigger too. From its 1.25 litre petrol engine, it has a CO2 rating at 112g/km (Band A4) and comes

with a price tag starting at €15,995 for the Classic model. Th e price range progresses to €20,495 for the i20 Deluxe Auto 1.4 litre with 100bhp. A 1.1litre diesel option is available at €1,500 extra.

For the f leet sector, the i40 gets a revamp with a new look grille, more powerful 1.7litre CRDi (with 136bhp), start/stop technology, leather interior and other interesting and att ractive enhancements.

Hyundai Cars Ireland, currently in 4th place in the overall sales table is confi dent on making a

big push to a podium position by the end of 2015.

Jarlath Sweeney

Hyundai ups-the-ante with new i20 & revised i40

www.fl eetcar.ie

LAUNCH PAD II | 17

For the third generation of Twingo, Renault has developed a rear-wheel drive

fi ve-door that is neat, nimble and great fun to drive. It has brought a high level of trim and fi nish to the Twingo, with a multitude of options to personalise the car to individual tastes. Despite the rear mounted engine boot space is 188 litres with up to 980 litres space available with seats folded.

Twingo is available in four models Expression, Play, and Dynamique which are powered by the 1.0L SCe 70 hp engine. Th e fourth model is the Dynamique Energy which uses the TCe 90 hp. All Twingos have a 5-speed manual as the

standard transmission.

Particularly important in this target market is connectivity. Standard in Twingo is R & Go which uses a free to download app that provides navigation, telephone and multimedia functions. The surprisingly spacious cabin and a host of distinctive features will make this small city car not just a means of gett ing around – it can get around with style, fun, and fl air. Prices start at €13,990.

Paul White

Just a new Renault Twingo – or birth of an Icon?

We have seen many variants of the MINI family to date from hatch to coupe to

clubvan but surprisingly this is the fi rst time a mainstream 5-door has been produced.

Keeping with the family look of the latest 3-door hatch, with the two extra doors, additional space and practicality comes into play – 278 litres of boot space (+30%) and 72mm more rear legroom compared to the 3-door. Th ere is 15mm more headroom also. In real terms, it’s 161mm longer, 11mm taller with its wheelbase extended by 72mm.

MINI Ireland sees the Volkswagen Polo, Audi A1 and Ford Fiesta as the main opposition

in its segment for the 5-door, off ering some advantages such as headroom, size, drivetrain, etc. Its petrol engines are more powerful yet more frugal, expressing less emissions

while the diesel range has extended beyond the regular 1.6 litre with a new 2.0 litre 170hp joining the fray that meets Euro 6 exhaust emission standard. Both 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions are available with start/stop function. Models on sale include One, One D, Cooper, Cooper D, Cooper S, Cooper SD with improved trim levels as the price scales progress. Prices start at €20,610 to €28,790 for the Cooper SD range-topper. Some of the technology on-stream include LED Headlights, E-Call

System, Head-up Display, Park Assist, heated seats, rain sensors, etc.

Jarlath Sweeney

Among a host of new off erings in the small family car segment is the new Opel

Corsa. Th irty two years aft er the original was launched, the fi ft h generation features fresh styling, new engines, and bett er equipment levels.

Styling wise the new car is clearly evolved from the outgoing model. It takes cues like the chiselled headlights and low set front grille from the smaller Adam, but overall it bears distinct resemblance to the car it replaces. Th ree and fi ve door versions are off ered that will appeal to diff erent markets. With coupé like styling, the three door will att ract younger buyers while the fi ve door model off ers increased practicality. Size wise it’s litt le changed from the old car, but can comfortably accommodate four adults.

Th ere’s a more upmarket feel inside with

quality plastics giving a solid feel, while practicality wise there are lots of decent storage areas. A new seven inch touchscreen that can interact with mobile devices is the stand out feature.

Worth gett ing excited about is a new three-cylinder petrol engine which, on initial test drive brings signifi cant refi nement to the car. It’s available with 90bhp or 115bhp and CO2 emissions from from 106g/km. It’s matched to a new 6-speed gearbox that off ers slick gear shift s. However the cost of that technology means it’s likely most buyers will opt for the existing 1.2 and 1.4 litre petrols and 1.3 diesel carried over from the old car.

Prices for the new Corsa start from €14,895. Irish customers will be able to choose from four trim levels and a choice of three petrol and one diesel engines.

Cathal Doyle

New 5-door broadens appeal of MINI

New Opel Corsa brings excitement to B-Segment

FLEETCAR | Winter 2014

18 | LAUNCH PAD III

FIRST DRIVE | 19

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

It’s doubtful if way back in 1973 when Volkswagen launched a new family car, it had any idea that forty one years later it would be introducing the eighth generation of the same car - or that it would have clocked up almost 22 million sales in that time.

Th at’s enough to make it the Volkswagen Group’s number one seller with almost 1.1 million sales annually in recent years, but as the new Passat arrives in Ireland in time for the New Year sales, it faces into what’s probably its most challenging market ever. Th e D-segment has been under pressure for a number of years, suff ering from competition from the growing crossover segment and smaller premium models, while on the other hand the large family car market is hugely competitive, with excellent off erings from the likes of the Mazda6, Opel Insignia and Toyota’s evergreen Avensis, not to mention the new Ford Mondeo and latest Peugeot 508.

Th e good news for Volkswagen is that based on initial test drives on the island of Sardinia, the Passat is rather good indeed. No need for obituaries yet.

Visually you’ll get no prize for guessing it’s a Volkswagen. Th e German brand doesn’t do revolutionary car design, at least for its mainstream models, and the styling links to the outgoing model are obvious. Nonetheless it exudes an image of quality and premium-ness that just might convince buyers that may have been looking at the likes of BMW and Audi to reconsider.

Inside too is a decidedly pleasant environment. Even though the new car is actually 2mm shorter bumper to bumper, interior space is a generous 33mm longer than before. Th at translates into a spacious environment, particular in the back where passengers have notably more legroom than before. Th e boot in the saloon is 21 litres bigger than before at 586 litres,

while the estate is equally practical at 650 litres, up 47 litres from the old car. Back in the cabin the quality of materials is fi rst rate, and comparable to anything the premium manufacturers can off er, the seats are comfortable and supportive, and the driving position is one of the best I’ve been in. It won’t be any hardship to spend extended time in this car.

Under the skin some serious weight saving has taken place with the new Passat up to 85kg lighter than before. Naturally that’s an aid to reducing fuel consumption and emissions. All engines are new to the range, now Euro 6 standard, and are up to 20% more fuel effi cient than before. Most Irish buyers will opt for the 120PS 1.6 TDI which wasn’t available for us to drive in Sardinia, but the 150PS 2.0 litre version is well worth checking out. It has CO2 emissions of 108g/km, just 2 g/km more than the 1.6TDI, and has a pleasing mix of performance and refi nement. A Bluemotion TDI will follow later in the year promising even greener motoring, as will a Passat GTE plug-in hybrid with 218 PS. Petrol engines don’t feature highly in this segment, but the 125bhp 1.4 TSI is worth checking out if mileage is not the main priority, with performance that belies its small capacity.

Sardinian roads might not be too representative of what we get in Ireland but the new Passat off ers an engaging balance of ride and handling. It’s prett y engaging too as a driver’s car with both manual and DSG gearbox options off ering slick changes. Sound insulation from external noises is excellent, with neither engine nor tyres barely audible when on the move.

Th e three familiar trim levels of Trendline, Comfortline and Highline will be off ered with Highline models gett ing LED lights as standard. Th e new Passat also majors on safety and technological features. Available for the fi rst time is the City Emergency Braking function with Pedestrian Monitoring, Trailer Assist which allows you to set a reversing angle then let the car and trailer do the rest, Traffi c Assist and Emergency Assist. Th e latt er stops the vehicle in an emergency if it detects the driver is not responding. A new digital display is an appealing option but that won’t be available here until the middle of next year.

Prices start from €28,045 for the 1.4 TSI Trendline. What’s anticipated to be the most popular model, the 1.6 TDI Comfortline, retails at €31,565. Fleet buyers may be interested too in Volkswagen Bank’s PCP packages which off er progressively lower APR rates on higher specifi cation Passats.

Let’s wait till we drive it on Irish roads before coming to a defi nitive conclusion, but Volkswagen appears to have come up with a very strong performer indeed in the shape of the new Passat. Any challenger will have to be very good indeed.

Passat reaches new heights with Passat reaches new heights with eighth generationeighth generation

When it comes to high-volume and profitable c a r s , G e r m a n

manufacturers don’t rush into change. Which is why you might be forgiven for wondering what exactly has changed with Audi’s revised A6 – a mainstay of fl eet sales and foreign exports for the brand. It’s more than a facelift , the company argues, because what you don’t see is what makes the diff erence. Bett er technology; more connectivity; an improved automatic gearbox and, most importantly perhaps, a much greener profi le than the older model are part of the latest package being off ered to fl eet buyers from November onwards.

Th ere are minor styling changes but they are not going to unnerve Audi fans. A new grille arrangement; a new exhaust design; new headlights and tail lights may not turn heads but when one looks at the emissions levels and fuel consumption, one sees why fl eet buyers will be paying very close att ention indeed to the new A6. Th e 2.0 litre diesel will, as one would expect, be the workhorse of the range and the standard 150 PS version produces only 109 g/km of CO2 and has a claimed consumption of as low as 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres. Even the 190 PS emits only a gram more.

So, lower fuel costs and better emissions – with correspondingly low rates of road tax – are likely to play more keenly with fl eet buyers and managers than would have been the case previously. Of course, Audi still has a way to go in terms of catching up on BMW – the 5 Series currently

accounts for just under 50 percent of the segment, with the rest divided up between Audi; Mercedes-Benz; Lexus and Jaguar.

What distinguishes the 5 Series and the A6

is the relatively conservative profi le of the former and the edginess of the latt er. Th e 5 Series is commodious and slightly traditional, while the A6 has a much lower profi le and an altogether more technically advanced interior. Audi’s Head of Marketing, Richard Molloy, says the specifi cation on the car is now bett er than ever and will allow it to compete more keenly with the 5 Series. Th e on the road price for the standard 2.0 litre saloon with 150 PS is now €44,750.

Audi’s cleaner and greener “Ultra” designation will be its unique selling point, while the SE versions and above will also get Xenon headlights; MMI navigation; acoustic glass and anti-glare mirrors as standard. The much-improved seven-speed automatic gearbox costs an extra €2,300 but should make the A6 an att ractive proposition for high mileage customers.

Th e premium sector has seen a sales increase of 22 percent this year and the cost of extras will be a key part of the batt leground for the big names when January registrations come into play.

Th e new A7 has also arrived and comes onto the market with a price tag of €67,550. It gets three petrol and two diesel engine options, ranging in output from 218 PS to 333 PS, and neither price nor output will

be for the fainthearted. However, Audi still sees scope for customers trading up to get a car with the practicality of a saloon with the sporty styling of a coupe.

Donal Byrne.

Audi revises A6 and A7

An updated Audi Q3 is to go on sale. Th e compact crossover has been a signifi cant success

for the brand with over 400,000 units sold in the three years since it was launched.

Visual updates are relatively minor, with the front grille now extending into the headlights, redesigned bumpers and new wheel options. Zenon lights are now standard across the range, while optional LED headlights are off ered in combination with rather stylish rear turn indicators that swipe across the light in the direction indicated.

Inside there’s a new steering wheel, and different seats, while there are updated optional safety features including Audi Side Assist (mirror blind spot warning), Audi Active Lane Assist and Traffi c Sign

Recognition.

It’s under the bonnet that the most signifi cant revisions take place with more fuel effi cient Euro 6 engines that are more powerful but feature CO2 emissions down by as much as 17%. Two - the 1.4 TFSI COD (Cylinder

On Demand) petrol and the 2.0 TDI 150bhp quality for Audi’s ‘Ultra’ badge, denoting models that meet strict eco standards. Th e diesels feature SCR technology. For the fi rst time a 120bhp diesel will be off ered, while power for the existing 2.0 litre diesels has been upped from 140bhp to 150bhp, and from 177bhp to 184bhp. Manual or S-Tronic transmissions are available, and the choice of front wheel drive or quatt ro all wheel drive versions.

Th ere’s also an updated RS Q3 with power up to 340bhp from 310bhp.

It’s capable of going from 0-100km/h in just 4.8 seconds.

Prices for the new Q3 have yet to fi nalised as Fleet Car goes to press. It arrives in Ireland next March.

Cathal Doyle

Audi revises Q3 Crossover for 2015

FLEETCAR | Winter 2014

20 | LAUNCH PAD IV

CHANGES TO EXISTING OFFENCESAND FIXED CHARGE NOTICES AT 8 DECEMBER 2014

Penalty Penalty Amount Amount points on points on paid in paid in next payment conviction 28 days 28 days Fixed Charge € Fixed Charge €

Offences incurring Penalty Points and Fixed Charges

Using vehicle (car) without valid test certificate (NCT) 3 5 60 90

Parking a vehicle in a dangerous position 3 5 80 120

12 Penalty Points = six months disqualification

Where the person was first issued with a learner permit on or after 1 August 2014, during the period the person drives under a learner permit and during the first two years while the person drives under a first full driving licence, then 7 Penalty Points = six months disqualification.

To see a full list of offences incurring penalty points, visit rsa.ie.

From 8 December a number of new offences incurring penalty points and fixed charges will be introduced and there will be amendments to some existing offences.

Be informed and review the amendments detailed below:

NEW PENALTY POINT OFFENCES

IMPORTANT NOTICE

NEW OFFENCESAND FIXED CHARGE NOTICES AT 8 DECEMBER 2014

Penalty Penalty Amount Amount points on points on paid in paid in next payment conviction 28 days 28 days Fixed Charge € Fixed Charge €

Offences incurring Penalty Points and Fixed Charges

Using vehicle in a public place without an authorisation plate 3 5 60 90

Using vehicle in a public place that has been modified or altered such that authorisation 3 5 60 90 plate is inaccurate

Using vehicle not equipped with a speed limitation device or using a vehicle equipped 3 5 60 90 with a speed limitation device not complying with requirements specified in Regulations

Proceeding beyond maximum vehicle length sign where length exceeds maximum displayed 1 3 60 90

Proceeding beyond maximum vehicle width sign where width exceeds maximum displayed 1 3 60 90

Proceeding beyond maximum design gross vehicle weight (safety) sign where design gross 1 3 60 90 vehicle weight exceeds maximum displayed

Proceeding beyond maximum vehicle axle loading weight sign where vehicle axle loading 1 3 60 90 weight exceeds maximum specified

Learner permit holder driving unaccompanied by qualified person 2 4 80 120

Failure to display N-Plate or tabard 2 4 60 90

Failure to display L-Plate or tabard 2 4 60 90

Contravention of ban on U-turns 2 4 60 90

Contravention of rules for use of mini roundabouts 1 3 60 90

Proceeding beyond no entry to vehicles sign 1 3 60 90

Proceeding beyond a traffic lane control sign other than in accordance with such sign 1 3 60 90 or without yielding

22 | TEST

FLEETCAR | Winter 2014 Text & Photos: Paul White - paul@fl eet.ie

C itroën has brought us some of the most unconventional, controversial, and equally the most beautiful cars in automotive

history. Th e company has once again diverted from the contemporary straight and narrow, to meander down the less travelled avant-garde pathway with its new C4 Cactus.

Citroën’s Cactus immediately draws a reaction from passers by, and leaves them somewhat perplexed. It appears that the side panels or ‘Airbumps’ are to blame. Although if you imagine Cactus without the panels it appears similar to a normal family car. Th e panels can be colour coded to match (or not) your choice of vehicle colour. Th e Airbumps do have a practical purpose by protecting the body from the inevitable carpark damage we all have to endure.

Our test version was the Cactus ‘Flair’ which is top of the three trim levels available and included a number of extras - and the extras are important. Th e reason we feel this, is that as a concept, the Cactus crossover will appeal to a certain type of person. Th e colour coded Airbumps, panoramic sunroof, straps for door handles, and retro style hinged rear windows - all help to set this car apart. While none of these features have anything to do with driving - they are nonetheless useful. Although many of the customers the Cactus is aimed at do not drive long distances, they can spend a lot of time in their car, so interesting features and comforts are welcome. Th is includes the 7” touch screen to control a myriad of sett ings for audio, bluetooth, sat nav, climate, and trip data.

Cactus aims to be frugal on fuel, and by combining the performance of the 1.6 litre Blue HDi 100 with the lightweight bodywork it manages to achieve this aim. Citroën claim a return of 4.6 l/100kms (61mpg) which is impressive and we believe achievable. Th e car doesn’t have a rev counter which was a bit disconcerting at fi rst, though it does have a change up/down prompt. While performance is respectable, Cactus won’t set any 0-100 kph records - though it isn’t meant to. It is a family car that seats fi ve comfortably and transports them safely with a roof airbag, ABS with EBD, ESC and hill start assist. At speed on the motorway the suspension is a bit stiff . Th ough when pushed a litt le on twisty bends, some body roll is noticeable. Th at being said, for our week long test none of this was particularly relevant as in normal driving mode the Cactus is comfortable and well behaved.

Th e two small issues we had with Cactus w e r e r e a r w a r d visibility, and that the gear selection was a bit too long. However aft er a while we found the gear selection really didn’t matt er so much. We really liked our time with the Cactus, and in this ‘crossover’ category found it a serious contender offering good value for money with high spec levels and optional extras.

Th ere was one feature on our test Cactus which initially may not appeal to everyone and came at a price of €450. Th e City Pack with Park Assist Self-Parking will take control of the Cactus and parallel park the car. It does take some gett ing used to, allowing the car to take control. Th ough we would recommend to try it a couple of times before saying yes or no to Auto parking. Especially try it in the dark with poor street lighting and heavy rain. On these occasions Park Assist can see bett er than you can.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that the Association of Professional Motoring Press (APMP) awarded Citroën’s C4 Cactus the title of Small SUV of the Year 2015- and deservedly so. It is a good fun car that is light and easy to drive, and with 89g/km CO2, running costs are manageable.

Citroën C4 Cactus

Spec CheckMake CitroënModel C4 Cactus 5-DoorEngine/ Power Citroën Blue HDi 100 - 1.6 litre - 100 hp (75 kW)Transmission 5-Speed ManualBraking Front & Rear Discs - ABS, EBDSafety Driver & passenger front lateral and curtain airbag,

ESC, ISOFix, hill start assistTyres/Size Goodyear Effi cient Grip 205/50/R17Std EquipmentExtra Equipment

7”Touchscreen, Cruise Control, Speed Limiter, Park Assist Automated Self Parking

CO2 Emission 89 g/km (€180-)Range Starts €17,795Price as Tested €23,845

2 Wheel drive and 4 Wheel drive, all in one car.

So driving in Irish towns or in the country, you have the grip you needand all the space you want.

From €20,995 with superb trade-in and finance offers, you could say, it was made for it.

Irish Country Life.Made for it.

Fuel Consumption: Urban Cycle L/100Km 6.6 Extra Urban L/100Km 4.7 Combined L/100Km 5.3 CO2 emissions 139 Price excludes delivery and number plates

Explore The new S-Cross at suzuki.ie or at your Suzuki Dealer

The New Suzuki S-Cross.

SUZ005 NEW VERSION i dd 1 08/09/2014 10 20

Our stunning addition to the Volkswagen range, the new Passat, sets high standards in fleet driving.

Whether you’re new to managing your company fleet or have been successfully running it for some time, we’re here to support you. With our flexible finance options and a team of fleet experts offering exceptional customer service and unrivalled after sales care, we want to help you get on with the business of successfully running yours.

For full details of the sensational new Passat and to find out how you can upgrade your company fleet contact us at fleet@vwgi.ie

Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland is authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules.

www.volkswagen.ie

Introducing your new business partner.

New Passat with Volkswagen Fleet Solutions.As advanced as you are.