A – Z of what’s coming soon … Alfa to Fiat
The drive toward sustainability has begun in earnest as new electric and hybrid models making up the lion’s share of the new arrivals for 212, writes Geraldine Herbert ALFA ROMEO Alfa’s electrification roll-out has begun with the Tonale, a plug-in hybrid compact SUV that will launch later this year. Combining a turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, it will rival Volvo’s XC40 and the Range Rover...
Alpine A110 Legende
Alpine’s A110 is a joy to drive writes Geraldine Herbert Why you will like it? One of the great automotive secrets, the Alpine A110 is a two-seater sports car with a heritage that goes back to the Sixties. Alpine, a name synonymous with rally victories, was bought by Renault in 1973, and in 2017 a new modern interpretation debuted at the Geneva motor show. While it is not currently available to buy in Ireland we hope it’s only a...
Car-buying tips to put you in the driving seat
There are a few things you need to consider when shopping for a new car, writes Geraldine Herbert 1 THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO GO ELECTRIC One in three car buyers walking into dealerships are no longer opting for a petrol or diesel car. Electric cars, plug-in hybrids and regular hybrids now make up more than 30pc of new car sales. Car makers are responding to demand with a host of options, but how they differ and which is...
Cashing in on the best 212 offers
Looking for a good deal on a new car? Geraldine Herbert rounds up the current offers available to tempt buyers, from discounts to fuel vouchers Now is a good time to buy a BMW, with low finance rates of 1.9%across the range. Cupra customers can avail of 2.9% PCP finance across the range, an online discount voucher worth €1,000 available for all models, plus a complimentary Cupra Care Pack – which includes three services –...
Factors shaping Motoring in Ireland
Many issues are influencing the production and supply of cars, writes Geraldine Herbert CHANGES TO VRT Changes announced in Budget 2021 to the Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) system, including the creation of nine new rate bands, came into effect on January 1. Designed to incentivise motorists to move away from higher polluting vehicles, CO2 bands now go from 7% to 37%. Cleaner vehicles like plug-in hybrids and electric cars that emit...