Key considerations when you’re buying a Family Car
From finance options to fuel types, Geraldine Herbert outlines five things to think about before choosing your next family car 1 Hatchback, estate, saloon, people carrier or SUV? For small families, hatchbacks are ideal and there is a huge choice of both new and used models on the market. Estates and saloons are a good option if you need that extra boot and cabin space. Nothing beats the versatility of MPVs and while not as...
Beware of hidden charges before you sign on the dotted line
‘Delivery and related’ charges can come as a nasty shock to car buyers writes Suzanne Keane Buying a new car can be a minefield. Choosing the right manufacturer, model, engine and specification is one thing but negotiating the right price while keeping within your budget can be a real headache. To avoid further uncertainty before you sign on the dotted line be sure to check out any additional charges which could be added...
A new tougher test comes in this week for all new cars.
From September 1st, the new WLTP standards will come into force so what does it mean for new car prices and motor tax writes Geraldine Herbert What is changing? The current method of testing fuel economy and emissions for new cars is to be replaced. Condemned for its inability to reflect real-world mpg, the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) will be replaced across Europe, including Ireland on September 1, 2018 by the Worldwide...
10 cars worth waiting for
Summer’s about to get a whole lot hotter as the new arrivals hit the ramp, writes Geraldine Herbert 1) Audi E-Tron SUV Slotting between the Q5 and Q7 in terms of dimensions, Audi’s first all-electric vehicle, the sporty SUV e-tron is expected here in early 2019. With a promised range of around 400km, the new SUV will take on Jaguar’s I-Pace and Tesla’s Model X. 2) Dacia Duster Arguably the most anticipated model from the Romanian...
Stricter new CO2 test may cause slump in car sales
A new system to test emissions will bring more accurate measurements, but may also lead to higher taxes and car prices, warns Geraldine Herbert A new emissions test for cars that is providing more accurate carbon dioxide (CO2) ratings may cause car sales to fall. The test, which was introduced last year for new models only will apply to all new cars sold in the EU from September 1 and is designed to deliver more realistic figures for...
The best deals around on a 182 car
Car manufacturers are offering huge discounts to attract buyers, from zero percent interest rates to free servicing, writes Geraldine Herbert Now is a good time to buy an Alfa Romeo, the Italian car maker is offering Personal Contract Plan (PCP) finance or a Hire Purchase (HP) with an APR rate of 2.9%. Also available are scrappage incentives. The Giulia saloon and Stelvio SUV are available with up to €4,500 Scrappage while the Mito...