GalwayIndependent.com Motoring Feed http://www.galwayindependent.com Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:54:18 +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=9914&Itemid=96 A service advisor from Galway has become the first female to take one of the top prizes in Toyota's Pan-European Skills Grand Prix.European Skills Grand Prix awards the company's top service advisors in Europe. As part of the competition, each participant must perform four tasks, including an online knowledge test and service delivery role-play.Nicola Mannion from Tom Hogan Motors, who was representing Toyota Ireland, beat 23 of Europe's best service advisors to claim third place in the prestigious event. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9964&Itemid=96 The new Citroen C5 has been voted Ireland's top car for 2009 by the 28 members of the Irish Motoring Writers Association (IMWA) in the association's annual new car awards event. The Citroen C5 was named the Semperit Irish Car of the Year 2009 at a ceremony in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, Dublin, on Friday last. The awards ceremony for the IMWA Irish Car and Van of the Year Award, which celebrates 30 years this year, is now rated... Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9968&Itemid=96 The Opel Insignia has been named Car of the Year 2009 (COTY) by a panel of car journalists from 23 countries, recognising the mid-sized car as revolutionary for the brand. The Car of the Year is a designation given by 59 senior motoring correspondents from 23 European countries. They chose the Insignia from a tough field of 37 contenders in this year’s competition. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9969&Itemid=96 Alfa Romeo Ireland has recently announced the pricing of its new sporty compact, the new Alfa MiTo. The MiTo sees the return of Alfa Romeo to a segment it has not competed in for some years. The Alfa MiTo is available to order in Ireland from November at prices from €18,995 before delivery charges, for deliveries in January. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9970&Itemid=96 Ford has dropped the entry prices for the new Ford Ka, which is due to go on sale in advance of Christmas. The new entry price is &euro11,535 (plus delivery charges), which Ford claims is some &euro800 below that of the outgoing model. The price saving for the new Ka comes despite a high level of specification, in tune with the Ka's promise of fun, fashionable motoring. Ford's new baby is available in two series, Style and Titanium. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9972&Itemid=96 Toyota Ireland launched a partnership with the Irish School of Excellence supporting the Secondary Schools Driver Education Programme. The programme teaches transition year students the rudimentary requirements of safe driving. With the support of Toyota Ireland, including the provision of a Toyota Yaris, the Irish School of Excellence programme has expanded from its origins in Munster and is now available nationwide. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9974&Itemid=96 Ford is selling its 20 per cent share in Mazda as part of its effort to raise cash. The Ford Motor Company expects to raise around $540 million by selling its large slice of Mazda. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9975&Itemid=96 General Motors (GM) has announced that it is selling its three per cent stake in the Japanese carmaker Suzuki for $230 million to raise cash. Suzuki said it would buy back the stake. Suzuki, which specialises in small cars, said the two companies would continue to cooperate in a number of joint projects, including developing new technologies. Their partnership started in 1981. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9976&Itemid=96 Mothers are better drivers than fathers and children feel happier when women are behind the wheel, according to a survey by Hyundai. Youngsters said their fathers were aggressive, drove too fast and lost their tempers quickly when in the driving seat, but mothers managed to appear happy all journey. Of 1,000 youngsters questioned, 80 per cent said they preferred their mothers behind the wheel. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9978&Itemid=96 As well as offering added safety in the snow, cold weather tyres provide a safer option when driving on cold and wet roads. Tyre specialists advise motorists to consider fitting cold weather tyres in order to improve road safety and reduce the number of accidents on the road. Despite the change in road conditions at the onset of winter, many drivers continue to drive on standard tyres. Slippery roads accounted for 55 per cent of road traffic accidents in which... Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9979&Itemid=96 An online survey by the Autotrader magazine in the UK has revealed many drivers have traded in their large vehicles for smaller, more fuel efficient cars with more drivers expected to follow their lead. The motoring website also discovered that nearly 60 per cent had changed the way they drive to work to save fuel due to the perceived cost of owning and running a car. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9769&Itemid=96 Maybe it was the hot magenta colour, but Ford's new supermini took a while to grow on me. Ford had made the efforts; they came with a bigger Fiesta, one that was claimed to be more fuel efficient and safer than in the past. So why was I so slow to recognise their efforts? Believe it or not, car engines carry a lot of sway with me. After all, it's the one part of the car that gets you moving. Engine... Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9770&Itemid=96 The AA has released shocking findings that show that 18.5 per cent of second hand cars imported into Ireland from the UK have had their mileage doctored. AA believes that the practise, called clocking, has got much worse in recent years. The analysis is based on a survey of 3,000 registration numbers and vehicle records for cars imported from the UK in 2008. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9771&Itemid=96 Second generation biofuels based on sugar cane present a sustainable solution to the world's energy needs, a leading expert claimed at a recent seminar in Dublin. Speaking at the Green Power Forum, Anders Fredriksson of leading Swedish biofuel company Sekab, warned delegates that dwindling oil reserves would allow for only one litre of fuel per week per adult by 2050. The Forum was hosted by the Irish Motoring Writers Association and sponsored by Continental Tyres. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9772&Itemid=96 Volvo Cars and toy manufacturer Viking Toys have launched a playful collaboration - Volvo cars for the youngest members of the family. The XC90, Volvo XC70 and Volvo C30 will be produced in soft, safe and durable plastic in the classic colours yellow, red, green and blue. Nowadays, it is standard procedure that each time Volvo Cars introduces a new model, model cars in various sizes are also produced. However, they are collectors' items, not toys. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9773&Itemid=96 Surprise legislative changes across several key European markets have prompted Renault to put plans for its next Espace multi-purpose vehicle range on hold. The car was due to reach showrooms next year, but the launch of the new version of the trendsetting MPV has been postponed after fresh research findings forced Renault to put the case of the new model into 'borderline' territory. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9774&Itemid=96 The European Commission has joined forces with car manufacturers to set up a task force to promote 'green' cars. The 'green' cars task force aims to get together all relevant stakeholders to explore technical, regulatory and economic hurdles and suggest ways forward for such vehicles. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9775&Itemid=96 Honda's new eight generation Accord has been launched on the Irish market.The new car is expected to provide a strong challenge to the traditional premium manufacturers in the D-sector. All engines in the line up will be Euro 5 emissions compliant, and the model will feature a sector-leading package of safety systems. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9776&Itemid=96 Lexus has announced details of the new IS range for 2009. The new models have small styling changes, with new colour choices and a fresh range of alloy wheel designs. The most notable upgrade is the provision of Lexus's advanced handling and safety system Vehicle Integrated Dynamics Management (VDIM) as standard on all models. VDIM co-ordinates the operation of the car's ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with the Electric Power Steering (EPS), providing... Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9777&Itemid=96 The European Commission has imposed fines totalling €1.3 billion on car glass manufacturers Asahi, UK-based Pilkington, Saint-Gobain and Soliver for illegal market sharing and exchange of commercially sensitive information Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9778&Itemid=96 General Motors (GM), which owns Opel, has reported a net loss of $2.5 billion worldwide in the third quarter as sales revenue tumbled to $37.9bn, down from $43.7bn in the year-ago quarter. The reduction in sales reflected, what GM called 'dramatic sales declines across the industry driven by unstable market conditions, instability in the credit markets and dramatic retraction in consumer demand, especially in North America and Europe'. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9744&Itemid=96 Audi's TT sports coupe is an iconic car within the Audi range. And the company's diesel engines are also very much part of the modern Audi tradition. Mix the two and you get a sports coupe with modern stylish looks and impressive thrift. The question is: does this combination work in terms of coupe performance? Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9745&Itemid=96 Mazda has introduced a new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, which will be fitted in the first instance in the new Mazda6 car. This new engine is claimed to deliver extra power with low emissions and low consumption. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9746&Itemid=96 A shortlist of two models in each of the five categories of the Semperit Irish Car of the Year 2009 has been announced by the Irish Motoring Writers Association. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9747&Itemid=96 Ford has announced full details on the spec and prices for the new Fiesta model, which has just been launched on the Irish market. The new Ford Fiesta will be based on three main series, Style, Zetec-S and Titanium. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9748&Itemid=96 As Euro NCAP, the European safety organisation, moves closer to its vision ‘for safer cars’, it has released details about the scoring behind the organisation’s new car safety rating. With the implementation of the new rating scheduled for 2009, vehicles tested by Euro NCAP from this date will undergo a much tougher and more comprehensive assessment. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9749&Itemid=96 Changes in working patterns have reduced death and serious injury on the roads at peak times on Fridays, according to analysis by AA road safety experts in the UK. In the past, Fridays were known as 'Fatal Fridays', due to the higher rate of road users killed and seriously injured in the peak rush hours. However, this trend appears to be changing, according to the AA. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9750&Itemid=96 As BMW has reported a drop in profits, the German-based car company said it can no longer give a forecast for 2008 because of the word economic downturn. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9751&Itemid=96 The Irish motor industry may be bracing itself for poorer new car sales figures from October but things are not as bad as in the US, according to recent reports. US car sales are reported to have dropped to their lowest October level for 30 years. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9752&Itemid=96 One of the world's largest car surveys has named BMW as most reliable brand, with the 3 Series named the most reliable car in a historic win over Japanese brands. The German marque topped the charts in the 2008 Fleet News' 'FN50' publication's vehicle reliability survey, which lists the cars considered most dependable among Britain’s 50 largest leasing companies. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9753&Itemid=96 Citroen have announced first details of changes to the C1 that will give the chic, ultra-economical city-car new exterior styling for 2009. The upgrade car comes with an even better fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions rating together with a number of other improvements, including an upgraded interior. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9754&Itemid=96 Volkswagen claims that the new Passat BlueMotion model is the most efficient, economical and environmentally friendly Passat yet produced. Building on the gains in efficiency made by the existing Passat BlueMotion, the new BlueMotion 2 features an automatic stop/start system linked to a new 2.0-litre TDI 110 PS common rail diesel engine. This engine will replace the outgoing 1.9-litre TDI 105 PS unit injector engine. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9755&Itemid=96 Hyundai has launched what it believes will be two world beating diesel engines. The engines, in either 2.0 or 2.2-litre format, are Euro-5 compliant and develop 184bhp and 200bhp respectively. Hyundai believes that the bigger of these two engines rivals the performance of some V6 diesels. Called the R engines, they claim to benefits from the third generation common rail system with piezo-electric injectors to deliver fuel at 1800-bar for a new degree of accuracy and control. It also features an... Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9756&Itemid=96 Citroen has launched a new SensoDrive version of the compact, high cube Citroen Nemo van. The SensoDrive system gives a clutchless automated manual transmission, which provides a conventional automatic transmission’s two-pedal driving convenience with the fuel economy and low CO2 emissions of a manual gearbox. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9561&Itemid=96 Galway people are being invited to get down to Windsor Galway on the Monivea Road on Thursday, 6 November for an exclusive preview of the 2009 Nissan range. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:33:02 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9560&Itemid=96 Volvo Cars has engaged the Swedish glassworks Orrefors in the work with the company's next concept car, which will be a first taste of the next-generation Volvo S60. The joint creation is a floating centre stack of hand-made Orrefors crystal. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:31:39 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9559&Itemid=96 Almost 90 per cent of cyclists fail to stop at zebra crossings, according to a UK report by the TRL (Transport Research Laboratory). In doing so they could have been prosecuted for dangerous cycling. However, very few cyclists are ever prosecuted, despite the danger they can pose to pedestrians and at other times to other road users. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:29:41 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9558&Itemid=96 Porsche said it plans to raise its stake in Volkswagen to 75 per cent next year, as it company aims to be Europe's largest carmaker. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:29:15 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9557&Itemid=96 PSA Peugeot Citroen has said it will cut its 2008 profitability outlook and start 'massive' production cuts, as the global car sales downturn bites hard. The report came as figures showed third-quarter sales declined 5.2 per cent, underlining slowing demand. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:28:43 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9556&Itemid=96 Ford is reported to be close to selling its 33.4 per cent stake in Mazda as part of its need to raise cash, as the American motor industry continues into a deepening crisis. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:27:56 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9555&Itemid=96 The Italian Fiat Group, which reported a small trading profit gain for Q3 has issued a warning of deteriorating demand conditions that could impact the company's financial outlook. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:27:17 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9554&Itemid=96 Renault's New Kangoo Van range has added a further key selling point to its attractiveness, as it prepares to do battle in the hotly contested compact van sector, with confirmation of a three year warranty (first two years unlimited mileage) across the entire range. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:26:43 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9553&Itemid=96 Drivers are reminded to check their tyre tread depth to stay safe on the roads this winter, after one of the wettest summers on record. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:25:33 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9552&Itemid=96 Nissan has given us the first look at the upcoming 2009 370Z Coupe, which makes its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on Wednesday 19 November. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:24:09 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9551&Itemid=96 Reducing fuel consumption and significantly increasing tread life only make sense if the gains are made without compromising the tyre's safety performance. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:23:34 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9550&Itemid=96 To ensure maximum performance and reliability, as well as safe and secure driving during the winter months, BMW Ireland is offering a free winter check on all BMWs to ensure maximum performance and reliability, as well as safe and secure driving during the winter months. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:22:42 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9549&Itemid=96 With an 8.4 per cent year-on-year growth, Mazda now claims to be the largest growing volume manufacturer in the Ireland, with an extra 337 Mazda models on the roads since last year. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:21:51 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9548&Itemid=96 BMW Group claims that it will be the world's first manufacturer of premium automobiles to deploy a fleet of some 500 all-electric vehicles for private use in daily traffic. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:19:49 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9547&Itemid=96 Ford Transits were the first and second placed vans in a recent fuel economy test, with best-in-class fuel consumption and lowest cost per kilometre. The 2.2-litre Ford Transit TDCi short and medium wheelbase vans were the most payload-efficient commercial vehicles in the competition, topping their class by returning best mpg and lowest cost per tonne mile. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:16:27 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9546&Itemid=96 We had our first hint of frost last week, indicating the arrival of winter time, which can be bad news for motorists. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:14:55 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9545&Itemid=96 Galway girl Aislinn Connolly was part of the Opel Ireland team in Scotland for the launch of the new Insignia model. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:10:52 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9544&Itemid=96 Scotland was the venue last week of the test drive for the first pre-production editions of the new Opel Insignia, Opel's replacement car for the Vectra. The new model is an absolute change from the older one in terms of style and driving performance. Michael Moroney sent this report. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:09:35 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9430&Itemid=96 Values of used alternative fuelled or hybrid cars are continuing to outperform the market, according to a UK used car report. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:25:06 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9429&Itemid=96 Honda has become the latest car company to cut production at its UK factory as demand continues to fall amid the economic crisis. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:24:17 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9427&Itemid=96 Seat has revealed more details of the Exeo model due in the Irish market during the early part of 2009. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:22:50 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9426&Itemid=96 Ireland is almost completely dependent on fossil fuels. How vulnerable does that make our transport system and economy as a whole? Are bio-fuels really the way to ensure a sustainable transport system? Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:20:43 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9425&Itemid=96 The latest version of Ireland’s best-selling small van, the Ford Fiesta Van, has just been launched. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:17:38 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9422&Itemid=96 Driving efficiently could save up to €295 or 30 per cent per annum off fuel bill Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:15:07 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9421&Itemid=96 The Road Safety Authority claims that that driver fatigue could be a factor in up to 20 per cent of fatal road accidents. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:10:33 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9420&Itemid=96 Renault’s new Koleos crossover vehicle launched across Europe in July is now available in Ireland. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:08:41 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9419&Itemid=96 Fiat in Ireland has wheeled out a new finance offer from 1 November on Panda, Grande Punto, Bravo, Doblò, Sedici and the new Qubo models. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:06:27 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9418&Itemid=96 Most women would put an in-built satellite navigation device at the top of their wish list when it comes to selecting options for their next car, a recent UK survey conducted amongst female drivers on behalf of GM Fleet has revealed. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:04:05 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9417&Itemid=96 Pressure from lenders appears to be forcing merger talks between General Motors and Chrysler. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:02:41 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9416&Itemid=96 The Irish Motoring Writers Association has announced the list of candidates for the 2009 Semperit Irish Car of the Year awards. The winners will be revealed at a ceremony in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry, Dublin, on Friday 21 November. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:00:54 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9415&Itemid=96 Volkswagen has developed a new Passat with coupe styling plus four seat accommodation while retaining the Passat image. Passat CC combine coupe features with more practical levels of space. Michael Moroney drove the diesel powered Passat CC and was impressed. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:56:41 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9169&Itemid=96 Mazda has high ambitions for the newly upgraded BT-50 pick-up, which shares some features and styling with the Ford Ranger. The new model, which was introduced at a European launch last week, will be available in March of next year. Michael Moroney reports on his test drive. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9170&Itemid=96 Last week's Budget announcements left motorists in further pain as petrol prices rose, there were increases in annual motor tax and an increase in VAT rates that will increase the price of new cars. The Budget announced an eight cent a litre increase in petrol prices, which pushes petrol once again ahead of diesel in terms of cost at the pumps. This will further push motorists in the direction of diesel engines, along with the CO2 benefits. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9171&Itemid=96 Mazda has confirmed that the saloon car version of the new Mazda3, fully redesigned for the first time in five years, will be unveiled at next month's Los Angeles Auto Show. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9172&Itemid=96 The new Lexus IS 250C unveiled at the Paris Motor Show will go on sale in the Irish market next summer. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9173&Itemid=96 Ford in the US is introducing a new piece of technology, called MyKey, which is designed to help parents encourage their teenagers to drive safer and more fuel efficiently, and increase safety-belt usage. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9174&Itemid=96 A new report from the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) has revealed that the number of people killed in Dublin city dropped by 70 per cent between 1997 and 2007. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9175&Itemid=96 Skoda has taken the wraps off the new Octavia model, which is due here in Ireland in 2009. The new model, which is Skoda's most successful car, has some subtle design changes. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9176&Itemid=96 Michelin has positioned itself as the preferred partner to all car manufacturers, in particular those that have developed their own environmentally friendly models. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9177&Itemid=96 Shares in General Motors and Ford have taken a lift after reports that they were involved in merger talks with each other and with Chrysler. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9178&Itemid=96 Tata, the Indian car maker, which owns Jaguar and Land Rover, has bought a controlling stake in Norwegian electric vehicle company Miljo Grenland/Innovasjon. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9005&Itemid=96 The arrival of the new Seat Ibiza is important for the Seat brand here in Ireland. The Ibiza has been the leading seller for Seat and so the new Ibiza is important in the range. Ibiza competes in the supermini sector where there's lots of competition. Michael Moroney drove the entry model 1.2 litre Seat Ibiza and here's his report. Wed, 15 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9006&Itemid=96 The new Freelander 2 TD4_e is claimed to be Land Rover's most fuel-efficient vehicle. This latest model, introduced at the recent Paris Motor Show, features a new intelligent Stop/Start system. It is the first Land Rover production vehicle to incorporate technologies from the company's sustainable engineering initiatives, collectively named 'e_TERRAIN TECHNOLOGIES'. Wed, 15 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9007&Itemid=96 Toyota has developed the world's first SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) rear window curtain shield airbag to protect rear passengers' heads in the event of a rear-end collision. Wed, 15 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9008&Itemid=96 Toyota's new Urban Cruiser, unveiled at the recent Paris Motor Show, is claimed to be designed to meet a growing demand for vehicles that are cut out for life on urban roads, yet are equally at home off the beaten track. This new model is compact for easy town driving and parking. Wed, 15 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=9009&Itemid=96 From early next year in Europe and Japan, Nissan will introduce the Pure Drive badge to its range of cars that produce the lowest emissions, or those featuring technology that reduces fuel consumption significantly. Wed, 15 Oct 2008 08:00:00 +0100