GalwayIndependent.com Motoring Feed http://www.galwayindependent.com Wed, 17 Mar 2010 01:12:24 +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=18680&Itemid=96 Renault lays claim to being the originator of the people carrier or MPV concept. For years the Espace was uniquely Renault and then it was joined by the Scenic. Since then, every car company has jumped in on the act. I've had the new 2010 edition Renault Grand Scenic on the road in recent weeks. It's a slightly stretched version of the Scenic, with more seating and space. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18681&Itemid=96 The new car market seems to be on the rebound, according to reports from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), which showed a 38 per cent increase in new cars for February compared with February 2009. A total of 12,325 new cars were registered in February compared with 8,950 in February 2009. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18682&Itemid=96 Awkward but necessary, driving while pregnant can be an uncomfortable experience. The IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) advises mothers-to-be to drive safely and comfortably. The law requires you to wear a seatbelt, even if you're pregnant, and wearing a seatbelt while pregnant will not harm your baby - in fact the risk of injury could be reduced by up to 70 per cent if you are involved in a crash. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18683&Itemid=96 Ford took the wraps of the new generation Ford Focus estate at the Geneva Motor Show last week. The estate version of the Focus accounts for a small but significant portion of Focus sales across Europe. The new Ford Focus range will feature a mix of low carbon diesel engines and frugal petrol engines. For the Irish market, where over 50 per cent of sales are now diesel, the diesel powered models will be the most popular. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18684&Itemid=96 After all the gritting and salting to roads to keep traffic moving during this winter's unprecedented bad weather, the wheel arches and undersides of many cars are now caked in corrosive debris. Whilst every effort should be made to clean it off, motorists may be causing unseen but terminal damage to their car's tyres by using pressure washers incorrectly. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18685&Itemid=96 Mazda6 got a styling facelift for the Geneva Motor Show. All three body styles - saloon, hatchback and estate - get a new front end design that is aerodynamic and sporty, while the interior receives chrome and piano black elements for a higher quality ambience. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18686&Itemid=96 Nissan unveiled the new Micra, the fourth generation of the iconic city car, at last week's Geneva Motor Show. Boasting breakthrough packaging and small-car engineering, the new, fourth generation Nissan Micra is on course to create a whole new set of industry standards. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18687&Itemid=96 With a new bodyshell, new engines and fresh, bold styling that introduces a new kind of dynamic aesthetics, Kia claims that the latest Kia Sportage is an urban-friendly compact SUV for today's families, consuming less fuel and emitting less CO2. This new Sportage is longer, wider and lower than the previous model. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18688&Itemid=96 The new Volkswagen Sharan made its debut at last week's Geneva Motor Show. The new model is reported to be based on an advanced new platform. It features twin sliding doors, a seven seat configuration and a range of frugal yet powerful petrol and diesel engines. Volkswagen claims that the new Sharan will set new standards of efficiency, practicality and refinement in its class. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18689&Itemid=96 Almost 30 per cent of travellers report that they have had their luggage lost or stolen while travelling abroad, according to a recent AA poll. Almost 50 per cent of these occurred while travelling to Europe. A further 20 per cent occurred while travelling to the US and the remainder while travelling to destinations as far as Australia, South Africa and Canada. The AA surveyed 11,000 members through its AA Motorists Panel. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18690&Itemid=96 The Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) has signed the EU Road Safety Charter in the presence of Noel Brett, Chief Executive of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to highlight the association's commitment to improving road safety in relation to tyres. The EU Road Safety Charter has undertaken to reduce road deaths by half by the end of 2010. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18691&Itemid=96 The latest figures on new car registrations for Galway show that 539 new cars were registered for the month of February. The figures on www.motorcheck.ie show that the Toyota Avensis was the top selling car in Galway in February, followed closely by the Volkswagen Golf. This was followed into third place by the Toyota Yaris, with the Toyota Corolla and Volkswagen Polo in fourth and fifth place respectively. Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18548&Itemid=96 Volkswagen proudly boasts that the fifth generation Polo is Europe's Car of the Year 2010. This latest version is undeniably a Volkswagen and its 34-year Polo heritage shines through in what is now a bigger and better car. There is instantly a bigger car feel with this new Polo, in the same way as the new Ford Fiesta. Small cars are growing in size and are creeping up in terms of what they can deliver and how they respond to drivers'... Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18549&Itemid=96 Citroen has announced details of a striking new concept design, which was released this week at the Geneva Motor Show. The new DS High Rider is the second concept associated with Citroen's new and distinctive DS line. Unlike traditional four-seater coupes with their long, low design, the DS High Rider is more compact. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18550&Itemid=96 Ireland is now ranked as the tenth safest country out of 27 OECD countries worldwide. The news comes from a report published by the OECD, which looks at the road safety performance of 27 countries around the world. It also examines the longer-term trends in each country. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18551&Itemid=96 The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued the results of its Free Speed Survey for 2008. The survey, conducted in 2008, monitored the free speed of cars, articulated vehicles, rigid vehicles and buses to determine the level of compliance with speed limits among road-users. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18552&Itemid=96 The countdown has begun in preparation for the 2010 World Car Awards. The winners will be announced at the New York International Auto Show on April 1 2010. The following top-ten finalist cars have been selected by secret ballot from a jury of 59 journalists from around the world. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18553&Itemid=96 Europe's best selling pick-up Nissan's Navara and its SUV sibling, the Pathfinder, have been given a mid-term boost with a number of significant changes. The big news for both models is that a new and technically advanced 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine is now available. The new models were launched at the Geneva Motor Show this week. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18554&Itemid=96 A new survey has shown that half of drivers have had a crash or a near-miss whilst swerving to avoid a pothole! Yet despite the high number of drivers affected by potholes, almost 70 per cent of those surveyed had never reported a pothole in their area to the local council. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18555&Itemid=96 Hundreds of unauthorised scrap yards in the UK are cashing in at the expense of reputable car recycling plants and this situation could see unsafe vehicles coming on Irish roads, according to Bluecycle, the leading online auction house for automotive salvage. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18556&Itemid=96 Despite high profile media pressure following a US government enquiry, the UK company Warranty Direct claims that the reliability of Toyota is not in question, despite the firm's recent recall of up to 1.8 million vehicles across Europe because of accelerator and brake issues. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18557&Itemid=96 Subaru has showcased a new hybrid tourer concept car at this week's Geneva Motor Show. The striking new show car comes with a spacious cabin, accessed through elongated gull-wing style doors and an eye-catching, sculpted body. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18558&Itemid=96 Over a quarter (27 per cent) of all accidental death claims paid out by Irish Life in 2009 were as a result of road traffic accidents, according to new statistics published by the company. A total of €5 million was paid out to families or dependants as a result of road traffic accidents. The majority (83 per cent) of all road traffic accident deaths were male. Alcohol was a factor in one in six accidental or sudden deaths claims, the... Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18559&Itemid=96 Nissan have just increased their scrappage discounts by a further €1,000 on their qualifying range of new cars. Nissan dealers are now offering €4,000 scrappage allowance on Micra, Note, Tiida and the new 2010 Nissan Qashqai. Ireland's lowest priced new car, the Nissan Pixo, has just got even more affordable. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18560&Itemid=96 The big news in Geneva this week is that Spyker Cars N.V. has confirmed that it has finalised the deal with General Motors Company to purchase Saab. The transfer of ownership took place on February 23. Going forward, Saab Automobile and Spyker Cars will operate as sister companies under the umbrella of the Amsterdam Euronext-listed parent company Spyker Cars N.V. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18561&Itemid=96 Honda has unveiled its 3R-C concept three-wheel vehicle at Geneva Motor Show this week. The revolutionary three-wheeled battery electric vehicle concept shows what a future minimal urban transport vehicle for one person might look like. The battery electric drive is mounted low in the three-wheeled chassis, therefore keeping the centre of gravity low and thus improving stability. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18562&Itemid=96 Thirty years after the original Audi Quattro captivated the Geneva Motor Show, the new Audi RS 5 Coupe was unveiled in Geneva this week with a combination of high-revving V8 power, super fast S-tronic twin-clutch gear shifting and a new evolution of the all-wheel-drive system. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18563&Itemid=96 Fiat has unveiled a new two-cylinder petrol engine family entitled Twin-Air at the Geneva Motor Show. Using new technology, this new engine combines the multi-air system with special fluid dynamics optimised for the best fuel efficiency. By taking the concept of downsizing to the extreme and tuning the basic mechanics, the new Fiat engine family delivers from 65 to 105bhp, while emitting 30 per cent less CO2 than an engine of equal performance. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18564&Itemid=96 Skoda unveiled the new look Fabia and Roomster at this year's Geneva Motor Show. The cars get an exterior redesign, plus a fresh range of engines, packed with new technology. The new look is most evident in the redesigned radiator grille and 3D-shaped headlamps, which have been widened, highlighting the stronger horizontal line of the cars' faces. Skoda claims that this gives both Fabia and Roomster a more dynamic look. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18565&Itemid=96 New car sales for the month of February were up 39 per cent compared with the same period in 2009. This is a very significant increase in sales and has been widely welcomed in the motor market. The figures are also up for the year to date by 17.5 per cent, an overall increase that dealerships have attributed to the Government Scrappage Scheme, in addition to bonus scrappage incentives and dealers offers. Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18404&Itemid=96 You'll easily spot the RS badge on the front of the new Octavia, if you opt for a bit more style to your choice. And the badge is on the rear too, to impress other drivers that you have an edge as you leave them at the lights. And you do, as this new generation Octavia, with the RS styling, power and features treatment, is something worth boasting about. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18405&Itemid=96 Audi has launched its first dedicated Audi Centre in Ireland, stating the company's intent to develop Audi further in the Irish Market. The flagship centre in Ballsbridge, Dublin is part of a five-year investment plan by Audi in Ireland, which highlights the company's drive to become the number one prestige car brand in Ireland by 2015. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18406&Itemid=96 Peugeot's new 5008 MPV has arrived on the Irish market. And, despite original predictions, the Irish distributor, the Gowan Group, has increased its orders for the car, following a strong market reaction. The new Peugeot 5008 will be available in Ireland in three trim levels. The new 5008 carries a retail price of €26,870 plus delivery charges for the entry SE Model. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18407&Itemid=96 New car buyers are failing to haggle and check out both financing and insurance costs before driving off the forecourt, which could leave them considerably out of pocket. That's the message following a new British survey of car buyers. The research reveals that, despite having only just come out of a recession, nearly a third (33%) of motorists polled would not consider haggling on their next car purchase, even though hefty savings could be made. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18408&Itemid=96 1. Shop around for insurance before signing on the dotted line. Drivers looking to buy a car should shop around for insurance quotes before putting a deposit down to see by how much their current premium will be affected and to check that it's affordable. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18409&Itemid=96 Volkswagen has unveiled the new Touareg 4x4, which it claims is up to 200kg lighter and up to 20 per cent more fuel efficient than the model it replaces. The new design is sharper and a hybrid version will be available, which Volkswagen claims will out-accelerate many hot hatches, while returning 8.3 litres/100km (34mpg) on the combined cycle. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18410&Itemid=96 A delay in the taxation of new cars has skewed CSO figures on new car sales, industry experts have said in the wake of a Central Statistics Office (CSO) report that seems to indicate new car registrations were lower in January 2010 than in 2009. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18411&Itemid=96 Reports from the US indicate that bruised Japanese carmaker Toyota is considering a recall for the Corolla, the world's best-selling car. However, the company said no decision had been made, as it was still looking into complaints over the Corolla's power-steering. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18412&Itemid=96 Michelin has launched the new Pilot Sport 3 tyre to replace part of its Pilot Exalto and Pilot Sport 2 ranges. It is the only tyre to combine on-road performance with environmental features, which it claims are unrivalled in its category. Michelin claims that the new Pilot Sport 3 delivers high levels of grip. On wet surfaces, it holds the road better when cornering and stops three metres shorter than its predecessor. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18413&Itemid=96 The Hertz car rental company has completed a deal with Nissan to bring zero-emission mobility to car rental in the US and Europe by early 2011. Hertz plans to offer the Nissan Leaf electric car at select rental sites. The Nissan Leaf is claimed to be the world's first affordable, zero-emission car. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18414&Itemid=96 Latest figures for the European car market from JATO Dynamics show that government-funded scrappage deals continued to tempt European car buyers to showrooms in January. This has pushed the market 14.9 per cent higher than in January 2009. There were more than one million new cars sold in Europe in January. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18415&Itemid=96 Tyre damage levels are at a new high, as more drivers are hitting potholes on Irish roads as a result of the snow and freezing conditions. There are reports tyre and rim damage and, in some cases, suspension components have also suffered damage and wheels are also knocked out of alignment, all caused by hitting potholes. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18416&Itemid=96 Jaguar has been revealed as the car manufacturer most likely to suffer brake problems, according to British car warranty specialist, Warranty Direct. The performance of brake systems have been in the spotlight, since Toyota announced it is planning to recall several hundred thousand of its popular petrol-electric hybrid, the Prius, with braking issues. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18417&Itemid=96 Windscreen damage caused by Ireland's frost damaged roads is likely to increase this year, impacting on NCT test pass rates. Already nearly 50 per cent of vehicles fail their initial NCT test in the Ireland each year, with some of the failures due to windscreen damage. Motorists should check their windscreen before their vehicle's NCT and avoid the potential cost of a re-test and the vehicle being off the road. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18418&Itemid=96 Just as car sales are starting to come out of the doldrums Bank of Scotland Ireland has decided to exit the car finance market. This has to be bad news for consumers as a lack of competition in this area will mean higher interest rates with less favourable loan terms and a return to the 'cherry picking' attitude from the car finance providers. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18419&Itemid=96 Mums are most stressed at 8.25am, according to a study of 2,000 mums across the UK and Ireland commissioned by Uniroyal Tyres. The research shows mums consider 8.25am, when on the school run, to be the worst part of their day as they struggle with getting the kids to school on time. Four in ten mums claim the school run is enough to make the most patient of people lose their cool. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18420&Itemid=96 In order to offer their customers even better value, Windsor Motors has increased their scrappage offer. Windsor is now offering a guaranteed €4,000 scrappage on 2010 Nissan Qashqais, Notes, Tiida and Micras and a guaranteed €2,500 on the Nissan Pixo - the lowest priced car in Ireland. The Pixo is among the best value eco-cars in the small city car category, offering low emissions and consumption at an extremely accessible price. Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18276&Itemid=96 I didn't need to go to the Artic Circle to test drive the new Toyota Hilux as the weather provided snowy and frosty road conditions right here at home when I had the Toyota Hilux on test. We rarely get the opportunity to use the full 4x4 system when driving on Irish roads but I had the good luck to have the system on tap when I needed it. And I did, as road conditions were poor and dangerous in... Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18277&Itemid=96 The new Peugeot RCZ has been voted Most Beautiful Car of the Year 2009 at the 25th International Automobile Festival. As part of the Festival, an online competition was created to select the most beautiful car of 2009. The Peugeot RCZ was selected from votes cast by over 100,000 Internet users in 62 different countries around the world. It is the fourth time Peugeot has won this prestigious award. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18278&Itemid=96 Renault in Ireland is extending its scrappage scheme until the end of March 2010. Renault was the first car company to introduce a scrappage scheme in Ireland back in September 2009 and offered an extended scheme to cars of eight years and older, initially until the end of January 2010. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18279&Itemid=96 Toyota has recalled all of the 58 Prius cars sold in Ireland for a brake software modification. The recall is being taken in response to reports of inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady braking on bumpy or slick road surfaces when the ABS is actuated. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18280&Itemid=96 Kia Motors has unveiled its Ray Plug-in Hybrid concept at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. The car follows the Kia Borrego Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV), the Forte LPI Hybrid, the petrol Kia cee'd Hybrid and the twin-turbo diesel Kia Sorento Hybrid. The Ray is seen as a new collaboration between design and engineering and a futuristic four-seat compact sedan. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18281&Itemid=96 Suzuki will be showing its new bigger car, the Kizashi saloon, for the first time in Europe at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show. The Kizashi is the new flagship vehicle in the Suzuki range and will be on sale in the Swiss market only this year. The Kizashi recently went on sale in Japan and North America and will also be launched in Australia in May. Wed, 17 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18142&Itemid=96 Nissan's timing for the arrival of new Pixo could hardly be better. This is a new entry-level car that fits the bill to maximize the opportunity from the Governments Scrappage scheme. With a price of €9,885 before the scrappage grant, this is possibly the cheapest car on the market, an ideal starter car and a car for downsizing. Does price mean everything and is the Pixo value for money in every sense? Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18143&Itemid=96 Ford Ireland has announced the line up for the new S-MAX and Galaxy models, which go on sale here in April. The new models, which were launched to the European motoring press in Spain last week, have had a range of interior and exterior design changes. For 2010, the new S-Max and Galaxy models also feature the new, high efficiency 2.0 litre EcoBoost petrol engine. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18144&Itemid=96 Volkswagen launched the upgraded version of the T5 Transporter van in Ireland last week. The new van comes with a more powerful turbo-diesel engine that is now a 2.0-litre unit compared with the older 2.5-litre engine. The entry engine power rises to 84bhp and the top engine performance reaches 180bhp. The vans are more economical than in the past and come with payloads from 2.6 to 3.2 tonnes. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18145&Itemid=96 Honda is recalling 3,000 Jazz models in Ireland as part of a global recall to fix a switch defect that could cause a fire. Honda said three cases of fires due to the defect have so far been reported - two in the United States and one in South Africa. In a statement, Honda said a defective master switch could cause water to enter the power window switch and could, in some cases, cause a fire. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18146&Itemid=96 Renault claims to have doubled its market share in Ireland since this time last year, following the release of January's new car registration figures. Renault reports that it now commands 9.3 per cent of the total passenger car market in Ireland. The Renault Megane shot to number four on the overall list of the top ten selling models in January and is also the second top selling diesel car. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18147&Itemid=96 Volvo customers can now buy a diesel-powered Volvo V70 or S80 with CO2 emissions as low as 119 g/km, corresponding to fuel consumption of just 4.5 l/100 km and Band A for VRT & Road Tax. This means that over the past year or so, Volvo Cars has delivered five models with emissions below 120 g/km. Volvo claims that its DRIVe badge is found on cars with the best environmental performance in their respective size class. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18148&Itemid=96 The Government scrappage scheme contributed to a rise in new car sales of 5.04 per cent in January compared to the same period in 2009, according to the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). A total of 16,650 cars were registered last month, up from 15,929 in January 2009. Ford, with a 15.9 per cent share, was market leader, ahead of Toyota and VW. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18149&Itemid=96 Chevrolet has announced details of new comprehensive pricing for the 2010 range of cars. This includes substantial price reductions across much of the Chevrolet range, the introduction of a €3,000 Scrappage Allowance for the Aveo range and the launch of 5.9 per cent APR finance offer, which will be available on all new Chevrolet models Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18150&Itemid=96 Over 70 per cent of Ford's new car sales for January 2010 are in the Band A and B tax segments of the market, according to Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director of Ford Ireland, who was speaking at the launch of the new S-Max and Galaxy cars. Overall, he said that the January new car market delivered a positive message, but the first two weeks were slow in terms of sales. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18151&Itemid=96 Citroen has announced the creation of Citroen Motors Ireland, following the withdrawal of the Citroen car and van franchise from Gallic Distributors. The new company is a subsidiary of Citroen France and is based in Citywest outside Dublin. Citroen Motors Ireland is headed up by Frenchman, managing director, Thierry Calewaert. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18152&Itemid=96 Skoda Ireland has announced that it has reduced service and maintenance part prices by 19 per cent at its dealers across the country, with immediate effect. The company said in a report that Skoda genuine collision body parts are now on average 12 per cent lower than 2009 and there is a 15 per cent retail price reduction across the entire Skoda accessories range. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18153&Itemid=96 Toyota Ireland is recalling up to 18,130 cars in Ireland, following an accelerator problem. Toyota Ireland has been able to reduce the initial all-in estimate of a possible 26,000 cars down to 18,130 Toyota cars that will be recalled to have an adjustment fitted to the accelerator pedal. Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17977&Itemid=96 BMW has launched a new entry model to the X range of SUVs. The aim seems to be to combine the X series design style into a more affordable and economical package. And for the first time you can get a BMW X Series in two-wheel drive format to confirm its affordability and economy. The new X1 has definite SUV looks and appeal, with all of the basic credentials of an X machine. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17978&Itemid=96 The recent cold and icy weather has reminded us of the benefits of having four wheel drive or all wheel drive. But it is not just the extremes of the last few weeks that make the All Wheel Drive Volvo XC90 the right vehicle for you and your family. Volvo has trimmed the price for the XC90 4x4 estate car to make it more competitive within the new market. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17979&Itemid=96 Mini leads the way in efficiency and now it's official. The Mini range produced the lowest CO2 in Ireland during 2009 (Source: SIMI Database FY2009). The brand once again sets the pace by bringing efficient dynamics into the small car arena through its Minimalism concept. Covering all the technological measures in the current Mini line-up, Minimalism helps to take the balance of driving fun and CO2 emissions to another new level. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17980&Itemid=96 Toyota has launched its new Auris 2010, with a sharper appearance inside and out. Toyota claims that it is using higher quality materials throughout the cabin and a suspension system tweaked for extra ride comfort and stability. Expect to see the car on the Irish market reasonably soon. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17981&Itemid=96 Honda has introduced its newest hybrid car, the Insight to the Irish market. The car uses a combination of a 1.3 litre petrol engine with the support of an electric motor system to improve fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions. The Insight is a five-door hatchback car that's aimed at the mid-range family car market. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17982&Itemid=96 Mazda has launched a new facelifted version of the Mazda6 in advance of this year's Geneva Motor Show in March. The new, upgraded version enhances the strengths of its predecessor, with good driving appeal and fuel efficiency, while improving refinement, cabin ambience, environmental compatibility and safety performance. The car has the new Mazda family face. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17983&Itemid=96 The use of common painkillers has been linked to an increased risk of fatal car crashes. Canadian research has shown that motorists killed in accidents were more likely to have been driving dangerously after taking codeine, a morphine-like medicine used in well-known brands such as Solpadeine and Nurofen Plus. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17984&Itemid=96 Ford has struck a deal with the AA Driving School to provide 8,000 cars over three years. Ford, which has supplied the AA Driving School for the last 12 years, will provide more than 2,700 cars a year under the new deal. The contract will see 1.4-litre Fiestas introduced alongside the 1.6-litre Ford Focus, which is currently the mainstay of the AA Driving School fleet. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17985&Itemid=96 Elderly women are considered more dangerous behind the wheel than young men, according to insurance figures. Female drivers face paying more than double for car insurance after retirement, according to AA Insurance in Britain. They also pay more than men aged just 25 - traditionally considered one of the highest risk groups. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17986&Itemid=96 General Motors (GM) and the Dutch specialist carmaker, Spyker Cars NV confirmed that they have reached a binding agreement for the purchase of Saab. The deal is conditional on Spyker getting a €400 million loan from the European Investment Bank. Spyker intends to form a new company, Saab Spyker Automobiles, which will carry the Saab brand forward. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17987&Itemid=96 Honda Ireland is planning on a new car market for 2010 of 65,000 units, according to Frank Kennedy, sales and marketing director at the company. Speaking at the launch of the Honda Insight hybrid car last week, Mr Kennedy said Honda expects to sell 1,400 new cars in 2010, up slightly from 1,124 sold in 2009, which was one of their worst years ever. The company exported excess stock to the Maltese market in 2009 as car sales plummeted here... Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17988&Itemid=96 Tony Burke Motors has congratulated Ms Angela McMahon from Galway City, who was the first customer to collect her new 2010 Toyota Urban Cruiser from the newly opened Toyota & Lexus Dealership. Mr Burke said the dealership wished Angela many years of safe and happy motoring. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17989&Itemid=96 Bradley Motorworks last week launched the new Honda Hybrid car, the Insight. The launch of the Honda Insight defines a new stage in the evolution of hybrid technology by utilising a more cost-efficient version of Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid technology. Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17882&Itemid=96 Colour does amazing things to one's perception of a car. Fiat gave me a bright green Qubo to test drive and test my ability to live in the green zone for some time. Once I was over the colour shock, I could begin to look more seriously at what the car had to offer. This small MPV is based on Fiat's small Fiorino van, so for starters you know where it's coming from. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.galwayindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17883&Itemid=96 Mitsubishi Motors will showcase its new compact crossover called the ASX at this year's Geneva Motor Show in March. The ASX is the European-spec version of the Japanese RVR, which is planned to hit the Japanese market from next month. Mitsubishi's new compact crossover will seat five and will be introduced in European countries from late spring 2010. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100