Our ultimate used car buying guide..
Step 1: Research
- Identify Your Needs: Consider what you need from a car. Think about size, fuel efficiency, and your budget.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend, including insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs.
- Research Models: Look for cars that fit your criteria and have a good reputation for reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Step 2: Where to Buy
- Dealerships: Offer certified pre-owned options with warranties but may be more expensive.
- Private Sellers: Can offer better deals but come with higher risks.
- Online Marketplaces: Provide a wide range of options; however, always verify the seller’s credibility.
Step 3: Initial Checks
- Vehicle History: Use services like checkamotor.co.uk to get a detailed report on the car’s history, including if it’s been in accidents, has outstanding finance, or has been reported stolen¹.
- MOT Status: Verify the car’s MOT status and history to ensure it’s roadworthy².
Step 4: Viewing the Car
- Exterior Inspection: Check for rust, damage, and the condition of tires.
- Interior Inspection: Look for signs of wear, functioning electronics, and a clean engine bay.
- Test Drive: Assess the car’s handling, brakes, and listen for any unusual noises.
Step 5: Professional Inspection
- If possible, have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic to uncover any potential issues.
Step 6: Negotiation
- Know the Market Value: Research the typical selling price for the car model and use this information to negotiate.
- Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal doesn’t meet your expectations.
Step 7: Finalizing the Deal
- Paperwork: Ensure all the necessary paperwork is in order, including the V5C registration document.
- Payment: Agree on a payment method that is secure for both parties.
Step 8: After Purchase
- Insurance: Arrange for car insurance before driving the car home.
- Road Tax: Make sure the car is taxed or tax the car in your name before driving.
Using Checkamotor.co.uk
- Free Check: Start with a free check to get basic information about the car.
- Comprehensive Check: Before finalizing the purchase, opt for a comprehensive check to get detailed information about the car’s history, including any outstanding finance or serious issues¹.
Remember, buying a used car requires careful consideration and thorough checks to ensure you’re making a wise investment. Good luck with your car hunting!
(1) Motor Check – Check a Motor. https://checkamotor.co.uk/.
(2) Check the MOT status of a vehicle – GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-status.
(3) Online Car Check: A Comprehensive Guide to buying Your Car – Safe and …. https://checkamotor.co.uk/online-car-check-a-comprehensive-guide-to-buying-your-car-safe-and-secure/.
(4) Car and Motorbike News – Check a Motor. https://checkamotor.co.uk/blog/.
(5) Buying a used car – the ultimate checklist | RAC Drive. https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/buying-and-selling-guides/buying-a-used-car/.
(6) 19 tips for buying a used car – MoneySavingExpert. https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/loans/buying-used-car/.
(7) The Ultimate Buying Checklist for Used Cars – GoodCar. https://goodcar.com/car-buying/used-car-buying-guide.
(8) Buying a Used Car in the UK: Avoid Scams and Find the Best Deals: The …. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Buying-Used-Car-UK-Ultimate/dp/B0BT7FZQFF.
(9) Buying a Used Car Checklist: The Ultimate Guide – Motors. https://news.motors.co.uk/buying-a-used-car-checklist-what-to-look-for/.
Cheap to insure family cars less than £7k..
Here are three cheap to insure family cars for less than £7k that we found on autotrader:
1. Kia Stonic:
The Kia Stonic is a compact crossover SUV that combines practicality with style. It’s a great choice for families who need a reliable and efficient vehicle.
The Stonic features a modern design with sleek lines and a distinctive front grille. It’s available in various vibrant colors.
Inside, you’ll find a comfortable cabin with ample space for passengers and luggage. The infotainment system is user-friendly.
Kia prioritises safety, and the Stonic comes equipped with features like lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, and multiple airbags.
The Stonic offers efficient petrol engines, including a 1.0-liter turbocharged unit.
Some versions fall into insurance groups 8 to 11, making it an affordable choice for insurance premiums.
2. Dacia Duster:
The Dacia Duster is known for its no-frills approach, offering practicality and value for money.
The Duster is one of the most budget-friendly family cars. It’s priced lower than many competitors.
It’s a spacious SUV with room for passengers and luggage. The rear seats can be folded down for extra cargo space.
Off-Road CapabilityThe Duster is available with 4×4 capability, making it suitable for light off-road adventures.
It comes with petrol and diesel engine choices.
Even the 4×4 model falls into insurance group 15, which is reasonable for an SUV.
3. Hyundai i30:
The Hyundai i30 is a practical and reliable family hatchback.
The i30 has a sleek and modern design, with LED headlights and a stylish front grille.
Inside, you’ll find comfortable seats, quality materials, and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Hyundai prioritizes safety, and the i30 includes features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The 1.0-liter T-GDI 120 version offers a good balance of performance and efficiency.
The i30’s group 10 insurance rating makes it an attractive option for cost-effective coverage.
Remember that insurance costs can vary based on individual factors such as driving history, location, and personal circumstances. It’s always a good idea to get insurance quotes specific to your situation.
The all new Tiguan 2024! Let’s find out more…
Let’s delve deeper into the differences between the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan and its predecessor:
1. Design and Styling:
– **Exterior Design**: The 2024 Tiguan maintains a similar exterior design to its predecessor, emphasizing a safe and recognizable appearance. While some may appreciate the continuity, others might have hoped for a more daring update.
– **Interior**: Inside, the cabin takes cues from the new Passat, featuring a **15-inch infotainment screen** (optional on Life models and above) and a standard 12.9-inch screen. These large displays enhance user experience and provide clear visuals.
– **Controls**: Volkswagen has reintroduced physical buttons on the steering wheel, which is a practical improvement over touch-sensitive controls.
2. Interior Quality:
– **Perceived Quality**: Addressing past criticisms, the 2024 Tiguan exhibits better perceived interior quality. The materials and execution contribute to an overall refined feel.
– **Comfort**: Passengers can expect a comfortable ride, with improved seating materials and attention to detail.
3. Efficiency and Powertrains:
– **Engine Options**: The Tiguan offers a range of engines, including **plug-in hybrid variants**. These options cater to different preferences, from fuel efficiency to performance.
– **Diesel Efficiency**: However, in diesel form, the 2024 Tiguan is not as efficient as its predecessor. Buyers seeking optimal fuel economy might need to explore other powertrain choices.
4. Driving Experience:
– **Refinement**: The new Tiguan prioritizes refinement and practicality over sporty handling. While it’s not the most engaging SUV to drive, it excels in comfort and family-friendliness.
– **Practicality**: Ample cargo space, comfortable seating, and a smooth ride make it an ideal choice for daily commuting and family trips.
5. Future Direction:
– **Electric Transition**: Volkswagen has announced that the Tiguan (alongside the Golf and GTI) will eventually transition into the electric car era. While the 2024 model doesn’t fully embrace this shift, it sets the stage for future electric versions.
In summary, the 2024 Tiguan builds upon its predecessor’s strengths, focusing on perceived quality, practicality, and a family-friendly experience. While it may not be ground-breaking in terms of design, it remains a reliable and versatile SUV for various lifestyles .
The Best Selling SUV’s of 2023 are..
The Ford Puma, Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage the best selling SUVs of 2023. Let’s find out a bit more about them…
That offer practicality, comfort and style and are all perfect family cars. But which one is the best for you? Here are some key points to consider:
Practicality
The Kia Sportage has the largest boot capacity, ranging from 526 to 591 litres depending on the powertrain. The Nissan Qashqai has a 504-litre boot, while the Ford Puma has the smallest boot at 414 litres. All three cars have decent rear legroom, but the Sportage and the Qashqai have more headroom than the Puma.
Driving
The Ford Puma is the most fun to drive, with agile handling and punchy engines. The Kia Sportage offers a smooth and refined ride, with a range of hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The Nissan Qashqai is also comfortable and efficient, with mild hybrid and full hybrid powertrains available.
Running Costs
The Ford Puma is the cheapest to buy, with a starting price of £21,240. The Kia Sportage starts from £23,445, while the Nissan Qashqai starts from £23,535. The Kia Sportage and the Nissan Qashqai have lower CO2 emissions and better fuel economy than the Ford Puma, thanks to their hybrid technology. The Kia Sportage also has the longest warranty, at seven years or 100,000 miles.
Technology
The Kia Sportage and the Nissan Qashqai have impressive interiors, with large touchscreens, digital instrument clusters and wireless charging. The Ford Puma has a more basic cabin, with a smaller infotainment system and fewer features. All three cars come with a good level of safety and driver assistance systems.
Porsche 911 Turbo S is a beast of a car. Here’s a bit about one we spotted today
The Porsche 911 Turbo S is a high-performance sports car that is designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. The car is powered by a six-cylinder horizontally opposed engine with VTG twin-turbo that produces 650 PS of power and 800 Nm of torque. The car is equipped with a new 8-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) gearbox and an optional sports exhaust system that provides a powerful engine sound. The car has a top speed of 205 mph and can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 2.7 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package.
The exterior of the 911 Turbo S is designed to be both aerodynamic and stylish. The car features a Light Strip and a Variable Front Spoiler that add to its sporty look. The interior of the car is a combination of classic design and modern technology. The car features a 10.9-inch touchscreen display and Porsche Connect that allows you to stay connected while on the go. The car also features Wet mode that helps to improve driving safety in wet conditions.
The 911 Turbo S is available in both coupe and cabriolet models. The coupe model has a fuel consumption of 23.0 – 23.5 mpg and CO2 emissions of 278 – 271 g/km. The cabriolet model has a fuel consumption of 22.6 – 23.3 mpg and CO2 emissions of 284 – 275 g/km.
In conclusion, the Porsche 911 Turbo S is a high-performance sports car that is designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. The car is equipped with a powerful engine, advanced technology, and stylish design features that make it stand out from other sports cars in its class. If you are looking for a car that combines performance, comfort, and style, then the 911 Turbo S is definitely worth considering.
It’s cold but the AA and RAC are working hard for their members
The AA and RAC are two of the most popular breakdown cover providers in the UK. Here are some key differences between the two:
The AA is generally more expensive than RAC, but it offers more comprehensive coverage options.
Customer satisfaction:
According to a recent survey, AA has a higher customer satisfaction rating than RAC.
Fleet size:
The AA has a larger fleet of patrols than RAC, which means they can respond to more breakdowns at once.
Membership benefits:
Both AA and RAC offer a range of membership benefits, such as discounts on hotels, restaurants, and other services. However, the specific benefits may vary depending on the type of membership you have.
In terms of breakdown cover, both AA and RAC offer similar services, such as roadside assistance, home start, and onward travel. However, the level of coverage and pricing may differ depending on the type of membership you choose. It’s important to compare the different options available and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
The AA offers a range of membership options, including vehicle cover and personal cover. Vehicle cover means that your vehicle is covered in the event of a breakdown, no matter who is driving. If you’ve lent your car to your gran so she can pick up some whiskey, she’s covered. This is ideal for couples or families sharing a car. On the other hand, personal cover gives you breakdown cover, no matter what vehicle you’re in. This is usually a more expensive option compared to vehicle cover. But if you drive multiple vehicles, it’s probably cheaper to take out a personal cover policy.
The AA also offers a range of additional services, such as European breakdown cover, which provides assistance if your vehicle breaks down while you’re driving in Europe. They also offer a mobile app that allows you to track the progress of your patrol and get real-time updates on their estimated arrival time.
RAC also offers a range of membership options, including vehicle cover and personal cover. They also offer a range of additional services, such as key replacement, which provides assistance if you lose your car keys. They also offer a mobile app that allows you to report a breakdown and track the progress of your patrol.
Both AA and RAC offer joint and family policies starting at exactly the same price. However, RAC offers a free MOT (worth up to £55) with their policies, which may be a deciding factor for some customers.
In terms of customer service, both AA and RAC have received awards for their customer satisfaction. However, according to a recent survey, AA has a higher customer satisfaction rating than RAC.
In summary, both AA and RAC offer similar breakdown cover services, but the level of coverage and pricing may differ depending on the type of membership you choose. The AA is generally more expensive than RAC, but it offers more comprehensive coverage options. The AA has a larger fleet of patrols than RAC, which means they can respond to more breakdowns at once. However, RAC offers a free MOT with their policies, which may be a deciding factor for some customers. It’s important to compare the different options available and choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Ultra rare Ferrari 250GT Spyder California..
Ok so… parked outside our office this week was a very rare £15m Ferrari with the window down of course and the owner was nowhere to be seen! Clearly they’re the king of cool! Let’s find out a bit more about it..
The Ferrari GT250 Spyder California SWB is a rare and prestigious sports car developed by the Italian car manufacturer Ferrari. It is presented by the brand as Ferrari 250 Gran Turismo Spyder California or simply Ferrari 250 California. The car was designed by Pininfarina and bodied by Carrozzeria Scaglietti. The Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder is not strictly speaking a spyder but a convertible version of the contemporary berlinetta. The car was produced from 1960 to 1964 with only 56 units produced. Here’s the spec:
Engine: 3.0 L (2953.21 cc) Colombo Tipo 128 and 168 V12 engine
Transmission: 4-speed manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2,400 mm (94.5 in)
Curb weight: 1,100 kg (2,425 lb) (dry)
Power: 240 ps (237 bhp / 177 kw) @ 7000 rpm
Torque: 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm
0-60 mph: 7.2 s
0-100 mph: 16.4 s
Top speed: 233 kph (145 mph)
The Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB was a stylish open-top grand tourer designed for export to North America. Most bodies were made from steel, but were lightened with with aluminum hoods, doors and trunk lids. Power came from a 237 hp version of the Ferrari Colombo V12 engine. The car was produced in 56 copies from 1960 to 1964. The car was a phenomenal success, especially on the West Coast. Two important American dealers – Jon von Neumann in California and Luigi Chinetti in New York – convinced Ferrari to produce a radically sporty convertible that would be exclusively destined for America. They assured Enzo Ferrari that there was a market for a hardtop version of a race car, a niche that the luxurious 250 GT Cabriolet Pinin Farina could not fill according to Neumann¹.
The Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB was featured in the 1963 movie “The Pink Panther” starring Peter Sellers. On August 19, 2017, a red Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB sold at the “Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance” auction, organized by Gooding & Company, for a record price of USD 17.99 million, becoming one of the most expensive retro/classic cars in history. A Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder SWB that belonged to French actor Alain Delon in the 1960s, was purchased on February 5, 2015 for around £15m, during an auction in Paris at Artcurial creating a world record for this model at auction.
In conclusion, the Ferrari GT250 Spyder California SWB is a rare and prestigious sports car that has been featured in movies and has set records at auctions. It is a car that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
What Car? Has released their used car of the year winners in 2023. Let’s find out more..
Used Hatchback of the Year
Winner: Honda Jazz (2020-present)
The Honda Jazz is a versatile and practical subcompact car that offers a lot to drivers. With its refreshed design and improved features, it’s an ideal choice for both city dwellers and those in need of a reliable and efficient vehicle.
One of the Jazz’s standout qualities is its clever interior design. The “Magic Seats” system allows for flexible seating arrangements, making it easy to adapt the cabin to your specific requirements, whether you’re carrying passengers or cargo. The amount of space this compact car offers is truly impressive.
Under the hood, you’ll find a fuel-efficient 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers ample power for everyday driving. The hybrid variant takes fuel efficiency to the next level, making it a more environmentally friendly option. The Jazz provides a comfortable ride and handles well, making it a great choice for city commutes.
This Honda model also comes with modern tech features, including a user-friendly infotainment system and advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Although it may not be the sportiest car in its class, the Honda Jazz excels in terms of practicality, comfort, and efficiency, making it a compelling choice for those in search of a dependable and well-rounded subcompact car.
Used Executive Car of the Year
Winner: BMW 3 Series (2019-present)
The BMW 3 Series exemplifies the essence of the “Ultimate Driving Machine” philosophy. This renowned luxury sedan has consistently set industry standards, and the model upholds this legacy with its latest improvements.
In terms of design, the 3 Series boasts a sleek and athletic appearance, featuring BMW’s iconic kidney grille and sharp lines. Inside, it radiates opulence with premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Performance is a highlight of the 3 Series. It offers a variety of robust engines, including turbocharged four-cylinder and six-cylinder options. The vehicle’s handling is precise, ensuring an exhilarating drive on both highways and winding roads.
When it comes to technology, the 3 Series is well-equipped with advanced features. The iDrive infotainment system seamlessly integrates with smartphone apps. Safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking provide an extra layer of protection.
Balancing performance and luxury with practicality, the BMW 3 Series offers a comfortable rear seat and a spacious trunk. The 3 Series continues to be an excellent choice in the luxury compact sedan category, emphasizing the ideal fusion of performance, sophistication, and everyday convenience.
Used Estate Car of the Year
Winner: Volkswagen Passat Estate (2015-present)
The Volkswagen Passat Estate is a well-rounded and family-friendly car that excels in multiple aspects. This midsize estate vehicle offers a harmonious blend of style, space, and practicality.
In terms of design, the Passat Estate presents a timeless and clean appearance. Its roomy interior is crafted from high-quality materials, emphasizing Volkswagen’s dedication to comfort and durability. The cabin is generously spacious, providing ample legroom and cargo capacity, catering to families or those with high storage needs.
The driving experience in the Passat Estate is characterized by a smooth and comfortable ride. It offers a selection of engines, including efficient diesel options and more powerful petrol variants. The vehicle’s handling is well-balanced, ensuring a composed and stable performance on various road conditions.
Notably, the Passat Estate boasts advanced safety technology, featuring systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These elements enhance both driver confidence and passenger safety.
In summary, the Volkswagen Passat Estate is a practical and versatile choice in the estate car category. It combines a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a strong focus on safety, making it an appealing option for those in search of a midsize estate vehicle suitable for family adventures and everyday driving.
Used SUV of the Year
Winner: Ford Puma (2019-present)
The Ford Puma is a game-changer in the subcompact SUV category, offering a unique combination of style, functionality, and performance. This addition to Ford’s lineup seamlessly blends the agility of a small car with the versatility of an SUV, making it an appealing choice for urban and suburban drivers.
From a design perspective, the Puma makes a striking impression with its contemporary and bold exterior, highlighted by distinct sculpted lines and Ford’s iconic grille. Inside, the cabin provides comfort and practicality, featuring an intuitive infotainment system. Notably, it introduces the innovative “MegaBox” in the rear, a spacious and adaptable storage area perfect for active lifestyles.
The Puma offers a variety of efficient and lively engines, including Ford’s EcoBoost technology, ensuring agile performance suitable for city driving and highway cruising.
In terms of safety and technology, the Puma is well-prepared, equipped with a suite of driver assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, elevating both safety and convenience.
The Ford Puma’s harmonious blend of style, functionality, and technology solidifies its position as a strong contender in the subcompact SUV segment. Its adaptability and engaging driving dynamics make it a compelling choice for those in search of a compact crossover with a touch of excitement.
Used Seven-Seater of the Year
Winner: Peugeot 5008 (2017-present)
The Peugeot 5008, a 7-seater SUV, stands as a noteworthy entry in the family car category, offering an enticing fusion of style, utility, and adaptability. It represents a substantial departure from its forerunner, transitioning from an MPV to a contemporary SUV design.
Visually, the 5008 catches the eye with its bold and sophisticated exterior, featuring a distinctive front grille, sleek LED headlights, and clean lines that introduce an air of refinement to its SUV silhouette. Inside, the cabin exudes a modern and high-quality ambiance, showcasing premium materials, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a spacious layout. With the capacity to comfortably accommodate seven passengers, it proves to be a practical choice for larger families or those requiring additional seating.
The 5008 offers a selection of efficient engines, encompassing both petrol and diesel options, striking a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The ride is comfortable, and the vehicle’s handling ensures a smooth and composed driving experience.
In terms of technology and safety, the 5008 comes well-prepared, incorporating features like a generous touchscreen display, navigation, adaptive cruise control, and various driver assistance systems that elevate both safety and convenience.
The Peugeot 5008 7-seater SUV is a compelling contender in the family car segment, harmonizing style, space, and contemporary technology, rendering it a versatile and comfortable choice for those in need of a family-friendly vehicle.
Used Electric Car of the Year
Winner: Tesla Model 3 (2019-present)
The Tesla Model 3 is a revolutionary electric vehicle that has transformed the automotive industry. With its blend of cutting-edge technology, impressive performance, and a more affordable price point compared to earlier Tesla models, the Model 3 has left a lasting impact on the market.
In terms of design, the Model 3 adheres to Tesla’s minimalist aesthetics with clean lines and a contemporary appearance. Inside, the cabin maintains simplicity and modernity, dominated by a large touchscreen display that controls nearly all vehicle functions, departing from the traditional array of buttons and switches.
What truly distinguishes the Model 3 is its electric powertrain, offering an impressive range, especially in the Long Range version. This makes it suitable for daily commutes and extended road trips. The Model 3 also delivers exhilarating acceleration, capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds in some configurations.
Equipped with Autopilot, Tesla’s advanced driver-assistance system, the Model 3 offers features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance, marking a significant step toward autonomous driving.
The Tesla Model 3 has redefined electric vehicles, blending futuristic technology, substantial range, and impressive performance. Its impact on the automotive industry has accelerated the adoption of electric cars and reshaped our understanding of what a car can achieve.
Used Hybrid Car of the Year
Winner: BMW 330e (2019-present)
The BMW 330e is an impressive plug-in hybrid sedan that combines the sporty DNA of the 3 Series with eco-friendly efficiency. This model seamlessly marries BMW’s classic performance with a more sustainable approach to driving.
In terms of design, the 330e retains the sleek and sophisticated appearance of the 3 Series, featuring BMW’s iconic kidney grille and striking LED headlights. Inside, the cabin offers a mix of luxury and technology, with high-quality materials, a user-friendly infotainment system, and ample space for both driver and passengers.
What truly sets the 330e apart is its hybrid powertrain, which pairs a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery. This combination provides robust acceleration and the flexibility to run solely on electric power for shorter distances, reducing emissions and fuel consumption.
In the performance department, the 330e upholds the sporty handling characteristics that the 3 Series is renowned for, ensuring an engaging and spirited driving experience. Its ability to seamlessly transition between electric and gasoline power results in a smooth and efficient ride.
Equipped with modern tech features, including driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, the BMW 330e offers enhanced safety and convenience.
The BMW 330e is a prime example of BMW’s dedication to innovation and sustainability, offering an eco-conscious driving option without compromising on the brand’s hallmark luxury and performance. It’s an appealing choice for environmentally conscious buyers who also seek a thrilling driving experience.
Used Sports Car of the Year
Winner: Audi TT (2014-present)
The Audi TT is an iconic sports car known for its captivating design and spirited performance. This compact two-seater coupe continues to impress with its distinctive Audi style and engaging driving experience.
Visually, the Audi TT boasts its characteristic design, featuring a sleek and low-slung profile, prominent wheel arches, and Audi’s iconic single-frame grille. This design has stood the test of time, remaining both timeless and appealing. Inside the cabin, the Audi TT showcases high-quality materials and the meticulous attention to detail that Audi is renowned for.
In terms of performance, the Audi TT offers a range of engines, including a lively turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers ample power for its size. Its handling is sharp, characterized by precise steering and a well-balanced chassis, ensuring an exciting driving experience, especially on winding roads.
Despite being a compact coupe, the Audi TT provides a surprisingly spacious cabin, making it more practical than some of its sports car counterparts. The interior layout is driver-focused, featuring an intuitive design and Audi’s user-friendly MMI infotainment system.
In the safety department, the Audi TT is equipped with standard features such as stability control, antilock brakes, and side airbags, ensuring a safe and secure driving experience.
The Audi TT remains an alluring choice for those in search of a stylish and sporty coupe, characterized by its enduring design, exhilarating performance, and the unmistakable appeal of the Audi brand.
Britain’s best used car has been named as the BMW 3 Series by consumer champion What Car and you can have one for £3k!!??
The BMW 3 Series claimed victory in two distinct categories, earning the prestigious titles of Best Used Executive Car and Best Used Hybrid Car. With its remarkable fuel efficiency of up to 62.8mpg, the 3 Series sedan stands out as a cost-effective choice amidst the current cost of living crisis. Additionally, the model caters to the desires of petrolheads, exemplified by the M3 variant, which boasts a robust 543bhp engine capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds.
So, why did the BMW 3 Series emerge as the winner? According to WhatCar?, the primary factor was its “immense driver appeal.” The availability of a diverse range of engines, combined with an upmarket interior and class-leading refinement, also received due recognition. Mark Person, WhatCar?’s Used Cars Editor, emphasized that the 3 Series is a “desirable choice” offering great value and setting itself apart from the competition. He described it as a vehicle that excels in multiple aspects, making it a pragmatic choice for prospective buyers. The 3 Series’ victory was further justified by the array of options it presents to used car buyers, spanning from high-performance petrol engines to frugal diesels and a compelling hybrid variant. Its immense appeal as an executive car, coupled with its affordability in the used car market, solidified its position as a double-category winner.
The selection process for this award involved assessing various criteria such as price, reliability, product quality, and running costs. As for the cost of a BMW 3 Series, a second-hand model with fewer than 30,000 miles on the odometer typically starts at around £20,000. However, those willing to consider models with more mileage, around 100,000 miles, can find options for as low as £3,000. For enthusiasts seeking restoration projects, even older, less well-maintained models can be acquired for a mere couple of hundred pounds.
Lamborghini Huracan in Nardo Grey
I think people use these to collect the shopping in Mayfair!
Here is a bit of information about the one we spotted in Mayfair (not taxed or MOT’d either we might add)..
The Lamborghini Huracan is a true masterpiece of Italian supercar engineering, showcasing the brand’s dedication to delivering unparalleled performance and breath taking aesthetics.
Beneath the bonnet of the Huracan, you’ll find a formidable 5.2-liter V10 engine that produces an impressive 602 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse is paired with a lightning-fast 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, propelling the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and achieving a top speed of 202 mph, highlighting its exceptional speed capabilities.
What sets the Huracan apart is its remarkable handling. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, providing confidence and stability even during high-speed cornering. The advanced suspension system offers various driving modes, allowing you to switch between a comfortable cruising experience and a track-ready performance.
The interior of the Huracan is a blend of luxury and performance, featuring high-quality materials, cutting-edge technology, and a driver-focused cockpit. The infotainment system includes a large touchscreen display, seamless smartphone integration, and a reliable navigation system, offering both convenience and entertainment.
Design-wise, the Huracan is a true work of art. Its low, aggressive stance, iconic Y-shaped LED headlights, and sharply defined body lines turn heads wherever it goes. The signature scissor doors open upwards, adding a touch of drama to every entrance and exit.
The Lamborghini Huracan remains a symbol of the brand’s commitment to delivering an exhilarating driving experience and a visual masterpiece, making it a dream car for enthusiasts and collectors alike.