GalwayIndependent.com Motoring Feed http://www.galwayindependent.com Sat, 17 May 2008 07:05:09 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.galwayindependent.com/images/M_images/joomla_rss.png http://www.galwayindependent.com GalwayIndependent.com Motoring Feed http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5830&Itemid=96 It's extravagant, expensive and thirsty but you still can't help falling for the new BMW 1 Series Coupé. What a car! This new model changes your views on the 1 Series for good. Michael Moroney reports on how the 1 Series has been redeemed with new coupé styling. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5831&Itemid=96 New figures from Thatcham, the UK Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre, show popular 'City Cars' as the least effective in saving the occupant from debilitating whiplash injury in the event of low speed rear end collisions. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5832&Itemid=96 A shocking three quarters of the used cars inspected in the UK by the RAC have faults that would cause the car to fail an MOT (NCT) and a further one in three have potentially dangerous or illegal faults, according to the motoring organisation. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5833&Itemid=96 PSA Peugeot Citroen plans to develop a new family of 1.0 litre 3-cylinder petrol engines, with power ranging from 70bhp to 100bhp and emitting less than 100g/km CO2. The French based group believes that this engine will bring very significant reductions in consumption and CO2 emissions. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5834&Itemid=96 Ford Ireland Chief Eddie Murphy has called on legislators to make Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) mandatory on cars across Europe. The call came at a recent event at Mondello Park to demonstrate the effectiveness of the technology on the new Ford Focus. Ford is the first manufacturer to standardise ESP in the compact family class in Ireland. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5835&Itemid=96 Opel Ireland and ISM (Irish School of Motoring) recently launched a partnership to promote safe driving in the ultimate learner driver car - the Opel Corsa. As a result, all Irish School of Motoring instructors will now teach their students to drive in the new Opel Corsa. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5836&Itemid=96 Mazda will be honoured by Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan, for its analysis of the combustion mechanism of catalysts in diesel particulate filters. Mazda has been conducting research into combustion mechanisms to eliminate particulate matter, mainly soot, from diesel engine exhaust emissions. The company developed systems to aid development of highly-efficient diesel particulate filters (DPF) in the future. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5837&Itemid=96 Renault has announced the specification for its new 4x4 crossover Koleos. Koleos is Renault's first-ever entry into the growing crossover segment and it boasts MPV levels of comfort and interior space combined with robust exterior styling and genuine off-road ability. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5838&Itemid=96 Subaru's new Forester has won a top safety award in the United States, scoring the highest marks for side, rear and offset frontal impact-protection. The Forester has earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's '2008 Top Safety Pick', award. Wed, 14 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5694&Itemid=96 Toyota's big Land Cruiser VX had a high power and size reputation among 4x4 drivers. Now the company has lifted the expectations for the giant of 4x4s with a new more powerful engine for the Land Cruiser and some extra comforts. Michael Moroney reports from his recent test drive of the king of 4x4s. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5695&Itemid=96 PSA Peugeot Citroen has joined forces with a company called Intelligent Energy, to develop fuel cell power systems for cars and vans. Three years after the partnership was formed, PSA has released the first outcome, a new zero emissions Peugeot Partner H2Origin van that is powered by the latest generation Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5696&Itemid=96 It's just May and already Audi has launched its new A3 models for 2009. How fast can a year end, almost before it starts? The new Audi A3 and A3 Sportback will come with a raft of technical and visual improvements. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5697&Itemid=96 To coincide with last week's Earth Day, Ford has highlighted its specially developed Eco-Driving programme, which is run in Germany. To date, more than 10,000 drivers have benefited from the Ford Eco-Driving programme, which has been running since 2000. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5698&Itemid=96 A simple yawn can mean a few things: you're stuck in a boring meeting or it's time for an early night, for example. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5699&Itemid=96 Peugeot will be putting the 308 RC Z concept car into full production. The final production model will be unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, two years after the concept car was first presented to the public and will then go on sale in the spring of 2010. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5700&Itemid=96 The three Mini Coopers of international block-buster, 'The Italian Job' have been named the top movie cars of all time in a survey by Uniroyal tyres. In a poll of over 2,000 movie-goers in the UK and Ireland, the popular Mk1 Austin Mini Cooper S's beat off over 20 other nominees to take the number one spot. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5701&Itemid=96 Subaru claims that the new 2008 Tribeca, just recently introduced to the market, was developed with an input from consumers in the luxury SUV segment. This new model was developed around specific requested features, combined with a level of pricing and prestige. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5702&Itemid=96 A UK based What Car? survey has revealed that two-thirds of prospective new car purchasers will be looking to buy a greener vehicle in the next 12 months. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5703&Itemid=96 General Motors (GM) Europe's first quarter sales volume for this year was 572,137 units, which is the highest ever Q1 volume by the company. The Chevrolet brand sales rose by 30 per cent to a record market share of 2.2 per cent. Sales at GM Russia sales were up 78 per cent and the company's Cadillac's European sales rose by 13 per cent. Sales of the large Hummer vehicle, while still relatively small showed a 59 per cent increase over... Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5704&Itemid=96 In the award for the International Engine of the Year title, German car maker BMW has competition to face as new engine rival its designs after four years on top. Among the engines that are expected to fare well in this year's awards are three particularly strong challenges from Japan. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5705&Itemid=96 BMW is believed to be considering selling engines and other components to rival companies. The German company expects to make a decision before the end of the year on whether or not to sell engines to the likes of General Motors, Daimler and Fiat. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5706&Itemid=96 Did you know that Rescue Service attended to 160,000 breakdown call outs last year, a new record. The dreaded flat battery is the single biggest cause of breakdown, accounting for nearly 41,731 call outs or 31.1 per cent of the total. Wed, 07 May 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5558&Itemid=96 Alfa Romeo's 159 is a stylish machine. Now the company has added an extra touch with TI designation to give more style to an already powerful car. Michael Moroney has come back from a test drive of the top of the range 3.2 litre version where power and style are fused to give unforgettable performance. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5559&Itemid=96 Lexus has introduced a new high performance car based on the IS model. The new car, called the IS F model is claimed to deliver exceptional performance and handling. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5560&Itemid=96 The AA has introduced its latest addition to the AA Rescue Fleet, a team of new AA Patrol Honda Deauville NT700 motorbikes. The AA is deploying additional motorbikes in Cork and Dublin. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5561&Itemid=96 Ssangyong has launched the new Rexton II to the Irish market. With many exterior and interior changes the Rexton II has a renewed style, while maintaining the essential elements that Rexton is renowned for. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5562&Itemid=96 Mitsubishi has developed a novel version of the L200 4x4 pick-up; a new commercial version. The new L200 Double Cab Commercial is based on the hugely successful passenger version of the L200 with the rear seats removed. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5563&Itemid=96 Opel claims that the new Insignia brand is more than a new name; it is a new car with a new ambition for the company. Opel believes that the Insignia based on the Vectra, makes a quantum leap toward rejuvenating the brand and providing the perfect opportunity to discover Opel. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5564&Itemid=96 Fiat has led the motor industry challenge to produce cleaner, more environmentally friendly cars during 2007, according to JATO Dynamics, the world's leading provider of automotive data and intelligence. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5565&Itemid=96 Audi claims that its new Audi Q5 combines the poise of a sports saloon with highly variable interior and versatile options for leisure-time and family use. This latest Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) uses the Audi quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The car uses a new seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and Audi drive select control system to create what Audi calls a performance SUV for all seasons and all surfaces. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5566&Itemid=96 Toyota is the most valuable car brand in the world, according to the BrandZ Top 100 survey. The Japanese manufacturer came 12th in the poll. The list was headed by Google followed by General Electric and Microsoft. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5567&Itemid=96 Male motorists are more aggressive than females because they still behave like cavemen, according to a new UK report. The report by Professor Geoffrey Beattie, of Manchester University says that the way in which men and women drive is a legacy of their primitive past. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5568&Itemid=96 The link between increased food prices and more use of bio-fuel is incorrect according to General Motors president and chief executive Rick Wagoner. He has dismissed United Nations research that links biofuel production to rising food prices as 'shockingly misinformed'. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5569&Itemid=96 The rising price of platinum has resulted in a new 'industry' with thieves stealing catalytic converters from cars in large numbers across the UK. Wed, 30 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5553&Itemid=96 Toyota, Daihatsu and Fuji Heavy Industries have agreed to extend their co-operation in research, development and product supply. The deal will mean that Toyota and Fuji will jointly develop a compact sports car, which is set to hit the market by the end of 2011. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:40:22 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5552&Itemid=96 Renault has been granted permission by the European Commission to take up its 25 per cent share in Russian carmaker AvtoVaz. AvtoVaz is the owner of the Lada brand. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:39:45 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5551&Itemid=96 The German Government remains steadfast in its defence of a law to protect the Volkswagen car company from takeover. This is despite criticisms earlier this week from Charlie McCreevy, the European Union's internal market commissioner. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:39:09 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5550&Itemid=96 Toyota has launched its most powerful Hilux pick-up at the UK Commercial Vehicle Show. The new version uses the 3.0-litre D-4D engine, which has been boosted to deliver 194bhp. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:35:33 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5549&Itemid=96 Drivers tend to ignore all but the most basic of road signs. A red light will still (thankfully) get most drivers to stop, most of the time. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:34:32 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5548&Itemid=96 The new Kuga is Ford's first entry into the highly competitive crossover market. Ford claims that it promises a blend of rewarding on-road driving quality and surprising off-road capability. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:32:25 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5547&Itemid=96 Mazda Motor Ireland's performance has mirrored the company's record-setting growth across Europe. Despite a slowing car market (down 23%) in March 08, Mazda Motor Ireland posted strong growth of 560 units, culminating with 3002 units registered during the peak selling period of January to March 08; a 24 per cent year on year increase. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:30:18 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5546&Itemid=96 Citroen's new Berlingo made its Irish debut at the Light Commercial Vehicle Show 2008 held last week in Dublin. The new Berlingo will go on sale in Ireland in late June. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:23:20 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5545&Itemid=96 Jaguar's latest model, the XF, was named last week as What Diesel magazine 'Diesel Car of the Year 2008'. The luxury sport saloon claimed the top prize after clinching the award for top performing diesel in the 'Best Executive Car' category. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:21:31 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5544&Itemid=96 March has proved to be a more difficult month for the European car market, according to JATO Dynamics, the world's leading provider of automotive data and intelligence. New car registrations recorded a drop of 9.7 per cent (175,738 units) compared to the same month last year, posting a total sales volume of 1,631,810 units. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:20:02 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5543&Itemid=96 Chrysler LLC and Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. have announced two new agreements for the supply of products between both companies. In January, Nissan agreed to supply Chrysler with a new car based on the Nissan Versa sedan for limited distribution in South America on an Original Equipment Manufacture (OEM) basis in 2009. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:18:39 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5542&Itemid=96 Peugeot in Ireland has extended the 4007 range, the first SUV to be launched by the Peugeot Brand, with the launch of a new commercial range. The 4007 Commercial is available in three versions, ST 2.2 HDi 16" alloys, ST 2.2 HDi 18" alloys and SV 2.2 HDi 18" alloys. The new 4007 commercial range will retail in Ireland from €31,750 including VAT, plus delivery related charges, or from €26,248 excluding VAT. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:08:31 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5541&Itemid=96 Subaru's baby in the car line-up is the small Justy model, which fits into the supermini group when it comes to car choices. The Justy has space and style attributes, with economy and low emissions as signal points in its direction. Michael Moroney drove the latest Justy and gives a dipstick view of the car. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 12:05:55 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5270&Itemid=96 Volkswagen was the first car maker to take the retro step with the Beetle, Mini followed under BMW guidance. Now Fiat has looked back to its future with a new Fiat 500. This new car is different; it's small yet very distinctive, while retaining the original Fiat 500 style. Michael Moroney took the Fiat 500 to the roads and was he impressed! Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5271&Itemid=96 Nissan has expanded its Qashqai offer with a new seven-seat version. Called Qashqai+2, the newest Nissan builds on the success of the original Qashqai by adding space and versatility to create the first Family Crossover. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5272&Itemid=96 The Volkswagen Touareg 4x4 range is set to benefit from the introduction of a revised 3.0-litre V6 TDI common rail diesel engine. The new engine promises to deliver greater refinement and a useful boost in power, while returning higher fuel economy and emitting less CO2. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5273&Itemid=96 The risk of having an accident in a car could soon be drastically cut thanks to a new approach to wireless network systems similar to systems used in mobile phone technology. Researchers say that new embedded sensor network systems in the road systems could put up information on individual cars and act on this automatically, over-riding the driver control, to avoid accidents. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5274&Itemid=96 Almost 70 per cent of used car buyers believe they are more vulnerable to buying risks by purchasing a vehicle online, according to a UK survey by HPI, the independent vehicle information provider. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5275&Itemid=96 Thousands of cars on Irish roads are only cleaned out once a year or less, creating unhygienic and dangerous driving conditions. And now new research from the AA has drawn attention to the dangers of these 'clutter cans' and encourage motorists to get cleaning. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5276&Itemid=96 Renault will soon be offering a new Laguna GT version with the new Active Drive chassis with four-wheel steering. The system was developed jointly by Renault and Renault Sport Technologies and it is designed to give the ultimate in driving pleasure, handling, dynamic response and steering precision. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5277&Itemid=96 Permanent tsb Finance is offering a special €99 comprehensive insurance offer for cars from a range of brands bought before the end of June this year. The deal will see eligible drivers securing fully comprehensive insurance for a year for just €99, if they purchase one of a number of leading car brands. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5278&Itemid=96 The Formula One in Schools Challenge, powered in Ireland by Honda, is on track to produce the Irish F1 faces of the future. Twenty-seven teams representing 25 schools from 13 different counties are gearing up for the National Finals of Formula1 in Schools. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5279&Itemid=96 BMW has launched BMW Performance, a new range of driving-oriented aftermarket accessories. Designed to focus purely on the driving experience, the range of individual retrofit components includes upgrades to the engine, braking system, suspension and alloy wheels, as well as interior and exterior enhancements, all for BMW 1 and 3 Series cars. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5280&Itemid=96 Jaguar's XJ long wheelbase has been named 'Chauffeur Car of the Year 2008' in the under £50,000 category by The Chauffeur magazine. Wed, 16 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5114&Itemid=96 The Jeep name is associated with off-road driving. That market is now merged into various forms, but the Jeep tag still links with solid and rugged performance. The new Jeep Wrangler range continues that tradition as Michael Moroney found out during his recent test drive. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5115&Itemid=96 Tata Motors has finally completed the deal to buy Jaguar and Land Rover from the Ford Motor Company in a $2.3 billion (£1.15bn) deal. The deal follows Ford's decision last August to explore options for the Jaguar and Land Rover businesses. Ford is concentrating its focus on its core Ford brand and 'One Ford' global transformation. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5116&Itemid=96 New research for the UK shows that children from poorer areas are far more likely to be hurt in traffic accidents, either as pedestrians or cyclists. The study, which was based on data of hospital admissions, shows that children from deprived areas are four times more likely to be seriously injured as pedestrians and three times more likely when cycling. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5117&Itemid=96 A quarter of company car drivers are driving their vehicles on illegal tyres and another 29 per cent are waiting until they reach the minimum legal limit before getting tyres changed. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5118&Itemid=96 BMW has developed a new Canine Repellent Alloy Protection system, which is designed to stop dogs fouling against the sparkling alloys of new BMW cars. Called the innovative Canine Repellent Alloy Protection system (C.R.A.P.) is the latest offering in the BMW EfficientDynamics programme. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5119&Itemid=96 Seat has lifted the covers from the most important new model in the Spanish carmaker recent history. The new Ibiza's debut marks the start of a major product offensive from the ambitious Spanish brand, which will, over the coming months, also see the debut of further Ibiza variants, as well as striking new saloon and estate contenders in the upper medium segment. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5120&Itemid=96 Mondello Park is currently preparing for one of the biggest events of its 40th anniversary season, with Round 1 of the inaugural 'Prodrift European series', the first pan-European drift series, scheduled for the weekend of 19 and 20 April. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5121&Itemid=96 The new small and compact Hyundai i10 has been launched on the Irish market. The car comes with a 1.1-litre petrol engine, in five-door form and a competitive pricing starting at €11,995 before delivery charges. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5122&Itemid=96 Ford was the leading vehicle brand for March 2008 sales, according to figures released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). However, the SIMI figures confirm the expected slowdown in sales in the Irish car market. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5123&Itemid=96 The one millionth Peugeot 207 car has rolled off the production lines, less than two years after the model's commercial launch. Continuing the success and leadership of the legendary Peugeot 205 and 206, the 207 is now sold in over 100 countries and exceeded worldwide sales objective by more than 20,000 units in 2007. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5124&Itemid=96 The BMW strategy, known as BMW EfficientDynamics, means that from July 2008 Irish customers buying a new BMW or MINI can expect to make significant savings when the new Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) system comes into effect. Of the standard/entry level transmissions on the 253 BMW models, BMW reports that 172 models will fall in price, or 68 per cent of the range. Of the 13 MINI models nine fall in price, or 69 per cent. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5125&Itemid=96 Goodbye C.C. Hello C02. That's the message for everyone buying a new car from 1 July who wants the best value-for-money, greenest car. On that day the old regime ends. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4991&Itemid=96 Mazda has delivered a stylish new model in the latest Mazda6. This new car may have competition on its hands, while it has enough style to be the envy of the many other makes and models. Michael Moroney drove the new Mazda6 in diesel format, where engine performance meets economy to give low emission levels. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4992&Itemid=96 Jeep has updated its Grand Cherokee range for 2008, with a range of new features and a new interior to make this Jeep the most luxurious ever. And it's not just about looks; the new Grand Cherokee has more features. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4994&Itemid=96 Subaru will be offering its new Forester model in the coming weeks. The new estate car is claimed to offer more space, a smoother ride and greater ground clearance. This latest Forester model claims to deliver more agile handling, fully justifying Subaru's adherence to the low centre-of-gravity 'boxer' engine and all-wheel drive system, which has made the brand famous. The big news is that a diesel-powered version will also be offered later this year. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4995&Itemid=96 Foreign drivers will no longer be able to escape detection for motoring offences committed in Ireland under a new cross-border enforcement plan adopted by the European Commission. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4996&Itemid=96 New guidelines for satellite navigation systems are to be issued in the UK after a string of incidents in which motorists have been sent the wrong way. The UK Department for Transport is drawing up measures to make satellite navigation companies improve their maps after drivers have found themselves misdirected along narrow lanes. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4997&Itemid=96 A new warning on the use of biofuels has come from a leading scientist and UK Government adviser. Professor Robert Watson, the chief scientist at the UK Department of the Environment, has warned that the drive towards encouraging the use of biofuels to power vehicles could cause more harm to the environment than good. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4998&Itemid=96 The Mazda2 has been voted the 2008 World Car of the Year. From an initial entry list of 39 new vehicles from all over the world, the 2008 title was announced at the New York International Auto Show. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4999&Itemid=96 The automotive research group Ricardo and a consortium of automotive partners have announced the completion of an advanced prototype research programme based on a new 2/4SIGHT engine concept. This petrol engine concept uses new technology to enable automatic and seamless switching between two- and four-stroke operation. The aim of the new engine is to deliver significant performance and fuel economy improvements from a smaller engine. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5000&Itemid=96 More motorists are accepting safety cameras as part of life on the road, according to an IAM Motoring Trust Survey. Of 500 UK motorists questioned, 78 per cent approved of 'speed cameras' - up nine per cent from 2007 (but still down on the near 90% approval they received in 1999). Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5001&Itemid=96 The BMW 118d has been voted 'World Green Car of the Year' at the New York International Auto Show 2008. The car won the award for its outstandingly low consumption and emission ratings. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100