Month: August 2023

Kia Xceed Hatchback 1.5T GDi ISG 2 5dr

nationwide-cars.co.uk are offer a Kia at the great price of £20,437 OTR a saving of £3,204. Below is the link..

Kia Xceed 1.5T GDi ISG 2 5dr (nationwide-cars.co.uk)

We love pistonheads.com

In the ever-evolving landscape of the internet, certain platforms rise above the rest, not just for their content, but for the unique experiences they offer to their communities. One such gem in the realm of automotive enthusiasm is PistonHeads.co.uk. With its rich history, unparalleled content, vibrant community, and seamless user experience, PistonHeads.co.uk stands as a beacon for automotive enthusiasts around the world.

A Legacy of Excellence: PistonHeads.co.uk boasts a legacy that spans over two decades, making it a trusted name in the automotive community. Since its inception, the platform has been committed to delivering accurate, engaging, and insightful content. From in-depth vehicle reviews to breaking industry news, PistonHeads.co.uk offers a diverse range of articles that cater to both casual readers and serious enthusiasts. This commitment to quality has solidified its reputation as a go-to source for automotive information.

Unrivaled Content Diversity: What truly sets PistonHeads.co.uk apart is its unparalleled content diversity. The platform doesn’t limit itself to a specific niche within the automotive world; instead, it covers a wide spectrum of topics. Whether you’re passionate about classic cars, high-performance vehicles, or the latest advancements in automotive technology, PistonHeads.co.uk has something for everyone. The depth and accuracy of its content make it a valuable resource, not only for reading pleasure but also for expanding one’s automotive knowledge.

Engaging User Experience: Navigating a website should be seamless, and PistonHeads.co.uk excels in this aspect. The user interface is intuitive and user-friendly, ensuring that visitors can quickly find the information they’re seeking. The well-organized categories and robust search functionality make exploring the platform a joy. Furthermore, the responsive design ensures that the experience remains consistent across devices, catering to users on both desktop and mobile platforms.

A Thriving Community: At the heart of PistonHeads.co.uk is its passionate community of automotive enthusiasts. The discussion forums are a testament to this, serving as a virtual hub where users from all walks of life can engage in meaningful conversations. Enthusiasts share their experiences, offer advice, and foster connections that extend beyond the digital realm. This sense of camaraderie enhances the overall experience, transforming PistonHeads.co.uk into more than just a website—it’s a thriving community united by a shared passion.

A Marketplace of Trust: PistonHeads.co.uk not only provides a platform for sharing knowledge but also facilitates practical interactions. The marketplace feature allows users to buy and sell vehicles, parts, and accessories in a trusted environment. This feature, built upon the foundation of the community’s credibility, adds real-world utility to the platform, making it a valuable tool for enthusiasts looking to make automotive-related transactions.

Continued Innovation: One hallmark of a successful platform is its ability to evolve with the times, and PistonHeads.co.uk has demonstrated this adaptability consistently. As the automotive industry advances, the platform remains at the forefront, keeping its audience informed about the latest trends, technologies, and developments. This commitment to staying current ensures that PistonHeads.co.uk remains relevant and invaluable to enthusiasts, regardless of how the automotive landscape changes.

Conclusion: In the world of online platforms, PistonHeads.co.uk shines brightly as a testament to automotive passion and excellence. With a legacy of quality, diverse content, engaging user experiences, and a thriving community, it continues to inspire and connect enthusiasts worldwide. As we celebrate PistonHeads.co.uk’s contributions to the automotive world, we also anticipate the continued growth and impact it will undoubtedly have on enthusiasts for years to come.

The best used fast estate cars for all budgets..

We’ve done some research and if you’ve got £3k for an estate car or £30k for an estate car there’s something for if you want a quick sporty one. Below are our favourites..

1. Ford Mondeo ST220 Estate:

• Performance: The Mondeo ST220 Estate is a performance-oriented version of the Ford Mondeo estate. It is equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing around 220 horsepower. While it offers respectable performance, it might not be as powerful as some of the other options on your list.
• Features: As a sportier version of the Mondeo estate, the ST220 likely features sport-tuned suspension, performance-oriented features, and a more aggressive design.

2. Audi RS4 Avant:

• Performance: The Audi RS4 Avant is known for its impressive performance, powered by a high-output V6 or V8 engine. The most recent versions are equipped with a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing over 400 horsepower, enabling quick acceleration and strong performance.
• Features: The RS4 Avant combines performance with luxury, offering advanced technology, a premium interior, and Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel drive system.

3. Mercedes E63 AMG Estate:

• Performance: The Mercedes E63 AMG Estate is a high-performance luxury estate car. It typically features a powerful V8 engine, such as the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, producing well over 500 horsepower in recent models. This results in exceptional acceleration and top-end performance.
• Features: The E63 AMG Estate combines luxury with extreme performance, offering a well-appointed interior, advanced technology, and AMG-specific enhancements for both aesthetics and performance.

4. BMW 535D Touring E61:

• Performance: The BMW 535D Touring E61 is part of BMW’s 5 Series estate lineup. It features a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine producing strong torque and good fuel efficiency. While it might not be as powerful as some other options on your list, it offers a balance between performance and economy.
• Features: BMW’s 5 Series estate typically includes a range of technology and luxury features, focusing on comfort, driving dynamics, and a premium driving experience.

5. Golf R Estate:

• Performance: The Golf R Estate is the performance-oriented version of the Volkswagen Golf estate. It is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing around 300 horsepower. This compact estate offers strong acceleration and nimble handling.
• Features: The Golf R Estate features Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, sport-tuned suspension, and various performance-oriented features, while maintaining the practicality of a compact estate car.

Comparison:

• Performance: The Audi RS4 Avant, Mercedes E63 AMG Estate, and Golf R Estate are likely to offer the highest performance levels among the options, with powerful engines and advanced drivetrains.
• Luxury: The Mercedes E63 AMG Estate stands out for its luxurious features and high-end interior.
• Practicality: Both the BMW 535D Touring E61 and Golf R Estate offer a good balance between performance and practicality, suitable for daily use and longer trips.
• Price: The price points for these estates can vary significantly, with the high-performance models typically being more expensive.
• Driving Dynamics: Each of these estates will offer different driving dynamics, with factors such as engine placement, drivetrain, and suspension tuning playing a role.

Ultimately, the choice will depend on your priorities, whether it’s raw performance, luxury features, practicality, or a balance of all these factors. It’s recommended to test drive these models and consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.

Ferrari…We love them..the sound,history, heritage

It seems hard to imagine that Ferrari hopes to produce an EV (electric vehicle) in 2025 and is going carbon neutral and hopes to attain its net-zero emission goals by 2030!

Around the streets of Mayfair in London Ferrari’s are on every corner and the sound between the buildings as they’re driving round is exquisite. Let’s compare a couple we spotted (ironically next to Ferrari Mayfair) yesterday…

Ferrari Roma V8:

1. Introduction: The Ferrari Roma is a luxury grand tourer introduced in 2020. It aims to combine elegant styling and high-performance capabilities, making it suitable for comfortable long-distance drives as well as spirited driving experiences.
2. Engine: The Roma is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine. In the version you mentioned (V8 620), it produces approximately 620 horsepower. This engine offers a balance between performance and refinement.
3. Performance: The Roma’s performance figures include a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) time of around 3.4 seconds and a top speed of over 200 mph (320 km/h). It’s designed to offer a more relaxed and comfortable driving experience compared to some of Ferrari’s more aggressive models.
4. Design: The Roma’s design is characterized by its sleek and modern exterior lines, resembling a classic grand tourer while incorporating modern aerodynamic elements. It has a front-engine layout and a more refined appearance compared to some other Ferrari models.

Ferrari 488 GTB V8:

1. Introduction: The Ferrari 488 GTB was a mid-engine supercar produced from 2015 to 2019. It succeeded the Ferrari 458 Italia and brought significant advancements in terms of performance and technology.
2. Engine: The 488 GTB was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.9-liter V8 engine. In the version you mentioned (V8 700), it produced around 700 horsepower. This engine was known for its incredible power output and responsiveness.
3. Performance: The 488 GTB’s performance was exceptional, with a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) time of approximately 2.8 seconds and a top speed of over 200 mph (320 km/h). Its mid-engine layout and advanced aerodynamics contributed to its remarkable handling and agility.
4. Design: The 488 GTB featured a more aggressive and aerodynamic design compared to the Roma. Its mid-engine layout allowed for a more compact and purposeful exterior design, optimized for high-speed performance.

Comparison:

• Performance: The Ferrari 488 GTB V8 700 has higher horsepower and quicker acceleration compared to the Ferrari Roma V8 620. This is due to the 488 GTB’s more aggressive focus on performance.
• Layout: The Roma has a front-engine layout, providing a more traditional grand touring experience, while the 488 GTB has a mid-engine layout, contributing to its exceptional handling dynamics.
• Design: The Roma’s design is elegant and evokes a sense of modern luxury, whereas the 488 GTB’s design is more focused on aerodynamics and aggressive styling.
• Intended Purpose: The Roma is positioned as a more comfortable and versatile grand tourer, suitable for both daily driving and longer journeys. The 488 GTB is a hardcore mid-engine supercar designed for intense track and performance driving.

Both the Ferrari Roma and the Ferrari 488 GTB offer unique experiences, and the choice between them would depend on your preferences for driving style, performance, and overall design. It’s recommended to visit a Ferrari dealership or official sources for the most up-to-date information and a firsthand experience of these models.

Lamborghini Urus V8 Auto 2019

We’re often out and about around Central London and see some amazing car so we thought we’d blog about the great cars we see. Our first car was spotted in Mayfair. Lets find out a bit more about it..

The Lamborghini Urus V8 Auto, introduced in 2019, is a high-performance luxury SUV that marks Lamborghini’s foray into the SUV market. Renowned for its exceptional power and speed, the Urus combines the aesthetics of a luxury SUV with the heart of a sports car. This report provides an overview and analysis of the performance of the 2019 Lamborghini Urus V8 Auto.

Key Performance Metrics:

1. Engine: The Urus is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that delivers an impressive 641 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
2. Acceleration: The Urus is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in just 3.6 seconds, making it one of the fastest SUVs on the market. Its top speed is around 190 mph (305 km/h), showcasing its remarkable performance capabilities.
3. Handling and Drive Modes: The Urus features advanced all-wheel drive (AWD) and a torque-vectoring system that enhances its handling capabilities. It offers multiple drive modes, including Strada (street), Sport, Corsa (track), Sabbia (sand), Terra (off-road), and Neve (snow), allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle’s behavior to various driving conditions.
4. Braking: Equipped with large carbon-ceramic brakes, the Urus demonstrates impressive stopping power. Its braking performance is crucial given its high-speed capabilities.
5. Suspension: The Urus features an adaptive air suspension system that provides both comfort and sportiness. The system adjusts the ride height and damping characteristics based on the selected driving mode and road conditions.

Performance Comparison: Comparing the Urus’s performance metrics with other luxury SUVs and sports cars, it becomes evident that the Urus excels in terms of sheer power and speed:

• The Urus’s 641 horsepower outperforms many high-performance SUVs, putting it in a league of its own in terms of power.
• The acceleration time of 3.6 seconds is remarkable for an SUV, rivaling some sports cars.
• The top speed of 190 mph is again a feat that few SUVs can match.
• The Urus’s sophisticated drive mode system and advanced AWD technology contribute to its outstanding handling capabilities, which are more commonly associated with sports cars.

The 2019 Lamborghini Urus V8 Auto is a groundbreaking vehicle that redefined the possibilities of a luxury SUV. Its exceptional performance metrics, including a powerful engine, impressive acceleration, and top-tier handling, showcase its true sports car DNA. The Urus’s impact on the automotive market, both in terms of performance capabilities and market segment expansion, is undeniable. It remains an embodiment of Lamborghini’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering and design.

Half a dozen reliable family cars around £5-£6k

If you’re looking to save money while acquiring a reliable family car, the second-hand market might just be your answer. Opting for a well-maintained used model with good fuel economy can lead to substantial savings in running costs compared to a brand-new car with similar capabilities. The lower purchase price adds to the allure of these affordable family-friendly vehicles.

Buying a car with your loved ones in mind involves considering the practical aspects of daily life. Managing expenses while ensuring comfort and safety becomes a top priority when you have mouths to feed and bills to pay. Luckily, the term “family car” encompasses various types, including MPVs, estates, saloons, SUVs, and large hatchbacks, providing ample choices across different budgets in the second-hand car market.

Let’s explore cheap family cars that we discovered across the second-hand market:

Renault Kadjar:

The Renault Kadjar stands out as an excellent used family car choice and we found one for around £6k, with a mix of petrol and diesel engines available. Its performance is robust both in urban settings and on the motorway, making it a reliable and versatile option. The spacious and comfortable interior, along with a generous 472-litre boot, makes it perfect for both everyday errands and long trips.

Vauxhall Insignia:

The Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport offers ample space and a high-quality interior, providing a comfortable and refined ride for families.  You can get a decent one for around £5.5k on autotrader.co.uk.  Its engine line-up includes strong petrol and diesel options, with the 2.0-litre TDI engine being a popular choice for its blend of performance and efficiency.

Kia Sportage:

The Kia Sportage stands as a stylish and desirable crossover, offering generous cabin space and a range of equipment. The 1.7-litre diesel engine strikes a balance between smoothness and efficiency, making it a practical choice for family journeys.  There is one on autotrader for £6100.

Vauxhall Astra:

The Vauxhall Astra has maintained its popularity among British buyers for its strong performance and reasonable pricing. It boasts a comfortable ride and spacious cabin, making it a reliable all-rounder for families.  We found a 2014 Astra for £5,500.

Ford Mondeo:

The Ford Mondeo offers a strong all-round performance, with a range of engines and comfortable seats that make long journeys enjoyable. Its spacious cabin and sizable boot add to its appeal as a practical family car.

Toyota Prius:

The Toyota Prius is synonymous with eco-driving, offering excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions. Besides its green credentials, it also serves as a capable and reliable family car with a spacious interior and a smooth, quiet drive.

Finding a cheap family car that meets your needs and budget is undoubtedly achievable in the second-hand market. The options mentioned above offer a mix of practicality, efficiency, and comfort, making them worthy contenders for families seeking an affordable and dependable ride. This is a nice one for sale at £6,000 (and a free bottle of water on the windscreen).

5 Luxury cars we found for sale between £2k & £3k

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Mercedes-Benz CLK:

While the four-door C-Class offers more practicality, the stylish CLK coupé is an attractive and reasonably straightforward option for getting around. Among the wide range of engines and gearboxes available, it’s recommended to focus on the petrol and diesel V6s. The petrol engine is known for its reliability, making it an excellent choice if you plan to keep the mileage low. Moreover, these larger engines come with automatic transmission, making them convenient for daily use and future resale.

We found: Mercedes 3.5 CLK350 Avantgarde Coupe 2dr Petrol £3,495

BMW 3 Series:

In the fifth-generation 3 Series, selecting the right engine is crucial. The 2.0-litre diesel, which received an update in 2008, has been known to have some issues, while the petrol engines have proven to be more reliable. BMW’s sophisticated Efficient Dynamics technology plays its part in saving fuel and improving efficiency.

We found: 3 Series BMW 2.0 320d ED Efficient Dynamics Saloon 4dr Diesel £3100

Jaguar S-Type:

An often overlooked executive car from the noughties, the Jaguar S-Type offers a comfortable driving experience. The diesel variant, introduced with a mild makeover in 2004, provides an impressive 40mpg fuel efficiency. However, potential buyers should be cautious of costly suspension parts and the possibility of rusting issues.

We found: Jaguar S-type 3.0 V6 4dr (1 owner) £2495!

Volkswagen Passat:

Choosing the saloon version of the Volkswagen Passat can save you some money while still providing ample space. This model has a proven track record and is capable of handling high mileage with ease. However, potential buyers should check for ECU failures.

We found: Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Tech Highline Euro Estate £2995

Mazda 6:

Not everyones cup of tea but the third iteration of the Mazda 6 combines comfort, practicality, and an enjoyable driving experience, all wrapped in a stylish package. Its reputation for reliability is a major selling point, backed by the renowned Japanese build quality.

We found: Mazda Mazda6 2.2 TD TS2 Hatchback 5dr Diesel Manual £2850

5 Cheap to insure cars to help out now interest rates are going through the roof…

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Hyundai i10 1.0 MPi SE 5dr – Priced at £15,015 (Group 3). Lowest insurance quote approximately £250.

Acknowledging its ample cabin space, assured driving experience, equipment, perceived quality, technical sophistication, and safety features, the i10 stands as the top A-segment hatchback.

Kia Picanto 1.0 2 5dr – Priced at £13,750 (Group 3). Lowest insurance quote around £260.

Though not a class leader, the Picanto impresses with its smart and spacious interior, providing a comfortable and undemanding city car with tidy handling and good practicality.

Seat Ibiza 1.0 SE MPi 80 5dr – Priced at £17,955 (Group 3). Lowest insurance around £270.

Built on a stiff, clever platform, the Ibiza is a modern compact car designed to ease the grueling boredom of everyday driving, although its handling slightly trails other rivals.

Skoda Fabia 1.0 MPI S 5dr – Priced at £18,600 (Group 4). Lowest insurance quote about £285.

Skoda’s supermini is easy to use, comfy, smart, and classy, offering considerable practicality, dynamic maturity, ease of use, and unquestionable value for money.

Kia Rio 1.2 DPi 5dr – Priced at £16,170 (Group 4). Lowest insurance quote around £300.

More practical, parsimonious, and mature than ever, the Rio impresses with its capacious cabin, but its driving experience lags behind some rivals in catering to comfort or enthusiasm.

We’ve picked 5 cheap to run cars…

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Toyota Aygo X 1.0 VVT-i Pure:

Toyota’s Aygo X is an intriguing micro-SUV, staying in the city car class. Distinctive looks and practicality make it a tempting choice. With strong residual values, it offers low total cost of ownership, around £11,102 or 37p per-mile over 36 months or 30,000 miles. Fuel economy is 56.4mpg, CO2 emissions at 110g/km, and insurance group 5.

Dacia Sandero 1.0 TCe Essential:

The Dacia Sandero in the B-segment supermini class costs less to own than many city cars. It has grown up with improved ride comfort, and the simple Access trim is no longer available. Decent interior quality, air-conditioning, cruise control, and Bluetooth on the Essential version. Cheap to drive at 49.3mpg, insurance group 14.

Kia Picanto 1.0 2 5dr:

Kia Picanto owners have strong used market values and low running costs with efficient versions emitting 110g/km CO2 and achieving 58.9mpg. The 1.0-liter engine produces 66bhp, and the ‘2’ trim includes features like USB ports and 14-inch alloys. Comfortable, spacious, and fun to drive, with a seven-year warranty.

Citroen C3 1.2 PureTech You:

Citroen C3 is cost-efficient, with an 82bhp 1.2-liter engine delivering up to 51.4mpg. CO2 emissions are 122g/km, and it falls under insurance group 14. While residual values are below par, the TCO is healthy due to the low initial price. Simple spec with electric front windows, air-con, cruise control, DAB radio, and Bluetooth.

Citroen Ami:

The Citroen Ami, a quadricycle, offers cost-saving with a running cost of 27.6p per-mile. It has seating for two, making it unique and more economical than the Citroen C3. The running cost over 10,000 miles is just over £2,760.