The new Tesla Model 3 is now available to order at a reduced price..

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It’s finally available to order from £39,990 onwards Design Your Model 3 | Tesla. Will there be less long faces in the services while waiting for a charging station while I splash and dash at the pumps?? Time will tell……

The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric mid-size executive saloon car that was first launched in July 2017. The 2024 model year of the Model 3 has recently received a facelift, which includes a refreshed design, new features, and increased range. The new model is considered to be the best electric mid-size car globally.

The Model 3 is designed with safety as the most important aspect. It has earned a Euro NCAP 5-star safety rating overall and in every category. It also earned the highest score awarded for the Safety Assist category through its suite of advanced active safety features. The car is fully electric with an estimated range of 374 miles (we estimate 300 miles real world), so you never need to visit a gas station again. You can charge at home anytime, or plug in on the road with access to over 50,000 Superchargers worldwide.

The new facelifted version of the Model 3 has a minimal interior aesthetic with all controls accessible on the central 15-inch touchscreen and the steering wheel. The forward-designed instrument panel provides even more legroom in the front, for a spacious passenger cabin. The premium centre console is modern and efficient, with plenty of covered storage and charging for two smartphones. The back seat is very comfortable—with maximum legroom and beautiful views through the all-glass roof.

The entry-level RWD 2024 Model 3 Highland addresses complaints and signals good things to come from Tesla. It has an estimated range of 263 miles and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in as little as 5.3 seconds. Tesla might be working on a new version of Model 3, which could be very quick .

In summary, the new facelifted version of Tesla Model 3 is an electric car that offers advanced safety features, a spacious passenger cabin, and an estimated range of up to 374 miles (real world 300 miles). It has received positive reviews globally and is considered one of the best electric mid-size cars available today..

A Ferrari F40 just sat outside The Connaught!

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While out car spotting in Mayfair we came across this beauty! I don’t know who left this F40 on a London street but I bet he/she doesn’t iron their own shirts!

The Ferrari F40 is a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive sports car that was produced by Ferrari from 1987 to 1992¹. It was designed to celebrate Ferrari’s 40th anniversary and was the last Ferrari automobile personally approved by Enzo Ferrari¹². The “F” in the name stands for Ferrari, while “40” represents the 40th anniversary of the company¹². The F40 was built as a race car for the road, with a tubular steel space-frame chassis and bonded kevlar panels³. It was also Ferrari’s fastest, most powerful, and most expensive car for sale at the time¹.

The F40 is a rare and highly sought-after vehicle. According to PistonHeads, there are currently only three Ferrari F40s available for purchase in the UK from trade and private sellers ¹. The prices of these cars range from £2,200,000 to an unknown amount ¹. AutoTrader UK has two used Ferrari F40s available for purchase ².

The F40 is a classic supercar that has been featured in numerous films and video games. It has a top speed of 201 mph (324 km/h) and can accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in just 3.8 seconds³. The car’s full-width wing was considered “the ultimate 80s power statement” and only 1,311 were made ⁴.

In April 2023, a Ferrari F40 worth over £1 million was seized by police in Lowestoft, Suffolk because it was being driven without insurance ⁵. The driver of the car was reported for having no insurance and had to pay a £150 recovery fee and daily storage costs until they collected it ⁵.

In conclusion, the Ferrari F40 is an iconic supercar that has become synonymous with speed, power, and luxury. It is a rare vehicle that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Although it is no longer in production, it remains one of the most recognizable cars in the world.

Need your first car for around £3k?  Here’s our three recommended cars for first time buyers…

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Ford Fiesta – 2008-2017 models

Prices start from £2,500

The Fiesta is still very much a popular car even after all these years, and the good news is that if you’re looking for a Fiesta, there are always lots of them available for sale at competitive prices, so you won’t find it hard to source one! In terms of the model itself, the driving position should suit all builds of people, and the boot provides a decent amount of space for a compact supermini. And unlike many smaller cars, the Fiesta also comes in a range of engine sizes if the standard 1.0-litre engine is a little too restrictive. Remember, though, that smaller engines are generally cheaper to insure if you’re looking to keep insurance costs down.

In terms of downsides, they’re tough to locate for the Fiesta, but if we had to find one, the model is a little on the small side with restricted legroom in the rear. The rear seats also don’t fold fully flat, which may put some off if you’re looking for extra space in the boot. If you are searching for something a little roomier, alternatives such as the Vauxhall Corsa and Skoda Fabia offer more space and may prove a better option. Otherwise, as you expect with Ford, the Fiesta drives exceptionally well and is economical to run, which is always good for the wallet.

Vauxhall Corsa – 2014-2019 models

Prices start from £3,500

The Vauxhall Corsa is another excellent little runaround that needs serious consideration. It comes standard with solid equipment for most versions and, overall, is reliable and cheap to run, making it ideal for the budget-conscious motorist. In addition, the Corsa is an innovative, compact car usually grouped in the lower insurance tiers, making most variants cheaper to insure than many other vehicles. It’s also ULEZ compliant, meaning you won’t need to pay any charges if the ULEZ zone becomes part of your journey.

On the flip side, we have to say the Ford Fiesta wins on the drive experience, despite the Corsa being a close rival. However, the Corsa doesn’t lack the space, offering more headroom than the Fiesta and the Volkswagen Polo, making it a good option if you need to house child seats in the back.

Otherwise, confusion over standard features may prevail with the availability of numerous model variants. Still, typically, the Life and Active variants are basic Corsa models, whilst the Sting, Excite, SRi and SE variants come with extras.

VW Polo – 2009-2017 models

Prices start from £3,000

The Volkswagen Polo is a solid, reliable, compact car with low running costs and lower insurance premiums than many other vehicles. In addition, it has a roomier interior than many of its supermini counterparts, providing a premium feel compared to, say, a Renault Clio or Fiesta. However, this Volkswagen quality is reflected in the Polo’s price, so it won’t necessarily be the cheapest option. And, if it’s the build quality and refinement you’re looking for, and you have the extra in your budget, then the Polo delivers. Add to that Volkswagen’s long history of delivering reliability and reassurance; the Polo is undoubtedly hard to beat. Indeed, it received top marks in Euro NCAP’s crash tests, a testament to the quality that Volkswagen consistently delivers. However, when it comes to the drive, we have to hand it to the Fiesta, which brings just a little more excitement.

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Best used car 2022

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There were more than 7 million used car sales in 2022 while there were around 1.5 million of new car sales. Buying a used car is a great way to save money over a new one. Typically a car will lose 20% of value in its first year. In simple terms that’s £2,000 loss for every £10,000 of value.

Best used city car 2022                               Skoda Citigo

Best used supermini 2022                         Ford Fiesta

Best used compact family hatch 2022     Volkswagen Golf

Best used family car 2022                          Vauxhall Insignia

Best used estate car 2022                          Skoda Octavia Estate

Best used small SUV 2022                          Citroen C3 Aircross

Best used mid-size SUV 2022                    Skoda Karoq

Best used large SUV 2022                          Volvo XC90

Best used compact executive 2022          Audi A4

Best used executive car 2022                    Volvo S90

Best used luxury car 2022                          Range Rover

Best used MPV 2022                                 Citroen Grand C4 Picasso

Best used coupe 2022                                Audi A5 Coupe

Best used convertible 2022                       Mazda MX-5

Best used hot hatch 2022                         Ford Fiesta ST

Best used sports car 2022                         Porsche 911

Best used hybrid car 2022                         Mercedes C 350 e

Best used electric car 2022                        Hyundai Ioniq Electric

Best used van 2022                                    Ford Transit Custom

Used Car of the Year 2022                         Skoda Karoq

The New Tesla Model 3

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Exterior Changes

The car has a redesigned, slightly lower front end and narrower headlights, which not only gives it a slightly sportier look, but also improves the aerodynamics. This helps bring the range up to 629 km (391 miles) on the Long Range, all-wheel drive variant, and 513 km (319 miles) on the regular, rear-wheel drive variant. Prior to the refresh, these numbers were 602 km (374 miles) and 491 km (305 miles), so we’re looking at a roughly 5 percent improvement.

The rear end has also been changed, with a TESLA sign replacing the “T” logo, and new, pincer-like tail lights also giving the Model 3 a slightly more aggressive look. From the side, not much has changed, though the wheel choice is now between the 18-inch Photon wheels with new black hubcaps, and the 19-inch, silver-coloured, aluminium Nova wheels.

Interior Changes

The center touchscreen now has smaller bezels and more usable screen space; more precisely, the display’s diagonal has grown from 15 to 15.4 inches. On the photos, it looks similar to the display in the new Model S and Model X, but that one is still bigger at 17 inches. Tesla says the new screen is brighter with higher contrast, and more responsive.

Then there’s the entirely new, 8-inch rear display, allowing passengers in the back to control the air conditioning and watch the car’s entertainment. The sound has also been improved, with the number of speakers growing from 14 to 17. The Long Range model fares slightly better here, as it has two subwoofers and two amps, compared to the single amp on the Rear-Wheel Drive model.

The front seats are now comfier, Tesla says, and ventilated, while the rear seats are also comfier and perforated but not ventilated. And yes, the car now has customizable, ambient LED lighting.

The Best ULEZ-Compliant Cars on a budget

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Are you on the hunt for a reliable used car that won’t incur those pesky ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charges? Many cities around the world are increasingly tightening their restrictions on vehicle emissions, ushering in the era of ‘low emission zones’ or ‘clean air zones.’ Among these, the ‘Class D’ clean air zones are the ones that impact privately-owned cars the most. These zones dictate specific emissions criteria, and any vehicle failing to meet these standards faces the prospect of incurring charges when venturing into the designated areas.

While clean air schemes of various types have been in operation in cities like Bristol and Birmingham, London’s ULEZ (Ultra Low Emissions Zone) scheme shines as one of the most noteworthy. What began as an initiative focused on the most congested and central parts of London expanded significantly in October 2021, stretching its boundaries to encompass the areas between the north and south circular roads. However, the ULEZ expansion continued, and on August 29, 2023, it broadened its reach to encompass all of the London boroughs, making almost all areas within the M25 part of the ULEZ.

So, what’s the key to avoiding those ULEZ charges? For petrol cars, it all comes down to meeting the Euro 4 emissions standards, which became mandatory for all new vehicles as early as 2005. Diesel cars face more stringent rules, as they need to adhere to Euro 6 emissions standards, which only became mandatory in September 2015, though many diesel cars before this date already met these requirements. If your beloved vehicle falls short of these standards, you’ll find yourself shelling out a daily £12.50 charge every time you enter the ULEZ.

Now, let’s delve into the best ULEZ-compliant cars that can help you navigate these stringent emissions regulations without breaking the bank:

Citroen C1 – Affordable and Eco-Friendly: The Citroen C1 proves that you don’t need to break the bank to own a ULEZ-compliant car. This compact city car, introduced in 2005, boasts Euro 4 emissions compliance, ensuring you can navigate London’s streets without incurring the £12.50 daily charge. While it might not be the roomiest option, its petite dimensions make it a breeze to maneuver through city traffic. Furthermore, its small petrol engines translate to cost-effective fuel consumption and insurance premiums. You’ll be pleased to know that used Citroen C1s can be found starting at a wallet-friendly £1,500.

Toyota Prius – Affordable Hybrid Excellence: As the first widely successful mass-market hybrid, the Toyota Prius has long been a symbol of eco-friendly driving. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly hybrid options on the market, with high-mileage examples available for as little as £3,500. For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, we recommend the third-generation Prius, introduced in 2009. All versions of this generation are ULEZ-compliant and offer a spacious interior, making it an excellent choice for city dwellers. It’s frugal on fuel and has earned a reputation for impeccable reliability, with many examples racking up over 250,000 miles. You can snag a well-maintained third-generation Prius with fewer than 100,000 miles on the odometer for around £7,500.

Mazda 6 – Affordable ULEZ-Compliant Diesel: Owners of older diesel cars face the toughest challenge when it comes to avoiding ULEZ charges. Euro 6 emissions regulations, the gold standard for diesel vehicles, weren’t introduced until a full decade after Euro 4 became mandatory for petrol cars. Fortunately, several diesel models met these requirements well before the September 2015 cutoff, including the third-generation Mazda6, launched in 2013. All diesel models of this generation are ULEZ-compliant. The Mazda6 is available as both a saloon and an estate, boasting a stylish design, a practical interior, and a strong reputation for reliability. Prices for used models start at a tantalizing £3,000.

Fiat 500 – Style and Urban Charm: The Fiat 500 has achieved icon status in urban areas since its revival by the Italian automaker in 2007. Its diminutive dimensions and nimble driving dynamics make it a joy to navigate through city streets. Despite being on the road for over 15 years, its fun and youthful styling has aged remarkably well. A variety of special editions, including the ‘Colour Therapy’ and ‘byGucci,’ have added extra flair to this chic Fiat. While most Fiat 500s are equipped with petrol engines, exempting them from ULEZ charges, a handful were sold with diesel powertrains. It’s essential to steer clear of these diesel variants if you aim to avoid ULEZ fees. Used Fiat 500s typically start at around £2,000.

BMW 3 Series Touring – Pet-Friendly Practicality: If you’re in the market for a practical estate car that doesn’t sacrifice driving pleasure, the BMW 3 Series Touring should be on your shortlist. With a capacious boot and ample rear seat space, it’s tailor-made for families. Additionally, it’s roomy enough to accommodate a larger canine companion comfortably in the rear cargo area. We recommend the sixth-generation BMW 3 Series Touring, available between 2012 and 2018. Earlier diesel variants from this era may not meet ULEZ standards, so if you aren’t planning extended motorway journeys, the smooth 320i is a fantastic choice. Prices for a well-maintained example typically start at £9,000.

Ford Fiesta – Widely Available and Affordable: The Ford Fiesta enjoys universal appeal, making it an excellent choice for new drivers or anyone seeking an affordable runabout. Our recommendation falls on the sixth-generation petrol models, available from 2009 to 2017. Throughout these years, the Fiesta consistently topped the charts as the best-selling car, resulting in a vast pool of used models to choose from. Opting for a petrol model from this era guarantees ULEZ compliance, as they are at least Euro 4 vehicles. This generation of the Fiesta boasts modern styling, enjoyable driving dynamics, and commendable fuel efficiency. However, it’s prudent to steer clear of diesel variants, as their ULEZ status is uncertain. You can typically find a used Fiesta from this era for approximately £1,500.

We love pistonheads.com

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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.