Sep03

Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50: 10 Things to Know

Posted by Geraldine Herbert on Sep 3, 2026

Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50: 10 Things to Know

Volkswagen is celebrating 50 years of its most famous hot hatch with the Golf GTI Edition 50. Here are 10 things worth knowing. It marks 50 years of GTI. This is more than a badge-and-wheel special: Volkswagen has added serious power and chassis upgrades. It is the most powerful production GTI yet. Its 2.0-litre turbo produces 325 PS and 420 Nm, sent to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG gearbox. It is fast. It reaches 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and tops out at 270 km/h—matching a Golf R fitted with the R-Performance package. It remains front-wheel drive. An electronically controlled differential helps turn all that power into traction rather than tyre smoke. The serious chassis kit is standard. Adaptive DCC suspension, progressive steering and the locking differential make this a sharper GTI, not simply a faster one. There is a Nürburgring mode. The “Special” profile adjusts the engine, steering and dampers for the Nordschleife and, more usefully, demanding real-world roads. The Performance Package loses around 25 kg. It adds forged 19-inch wheels, a titanium-tailpipe exhaust, semi-slick tyres and another 5 mm drop in ride height. It looks special but subtle. GTI 50 badges, black tailpipes, Clubsport-style bumpers and distinctive 19-inch wheels provide the clues. It’s got tartan Special Clark GTI 50 upholstery, red seat belts and anniversary logos brighten the cabin. It remains a usable five-door Golf, with a 374-litre boot expanding to 1,230 litres. The price is anything but discreet. The Edition 50 starts at €74,792 in Ireland, the Golf GTE starts at €56,960, the 333hp four-wheel-drive Golf R at €78,825 and the R Black Edition at €83,390. And be warned: options quickly inflate the...

National Slow Down Day: 5 Reasons to Reduce Your Speed

Aug30

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National Slow Down Day: 5 Reasons to Reduce Your Speed

Posted by Geraldine Herbert on Aug 30, 2026

National Slow Down Day: 5 Reasons to Reduce Your Speed

We have 5 reasons why slowing down is a good idea writes Geraldine Herbert National Slow Down Day takes place on Monday 31st of August. The nationwide road-safety initiative encourages motorists to reduce their speed and make safer choices behind the wheel. Here are five important reasons to slow down while driving. We have 5 reasons why slowing down is a good idea Save lives –The impact of speed on pedestrian safety is striking. At 60km/h, half of those hit by a car will not survive. At 50km/h, the odds improve, but still, three out of ten won’t make it. However, at 30km/h, nine out of ten pedestrians will survive. Save Fuel –Higher speeds not only burn rubber but also fuel. Driving at 110km/h consumes up to 9% more fuel than cruising at 96km/h, and a whopping 15% more than maintaining a steady 80km/h pace. Save on Maintenance – Slower speeds aren’t just safer for vulnerable road users; they’re also kinder to your vehicle. By easing off the accelerator, you can reduce wear and tear on your car, potentially saving on maintenance costs in the long run. Save Stress – You can reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being by slowing down. Save Money – Staying within the speed limit isn’t just about obeying the law; it’s also about safeguarding your wallet. By avoiding speeding tickets, you can steer clear of unnecessary fines and keep your hard-earned money where it belongs – in your pocket. Geraldine Herbert ...

Buying an Older Car: 17 Things You Need to Know

Aug13

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Buying an Older Car: 17 Things You Need to Know

Posted by Geraldine Herbert on Aug 13, 2026

Buying an Older Car: 17 Things You Need to Know

Buying an older car can be an affordable way to get behind the wheel, but here are the key things you need to know. Check the mileage: Mileage can be a better indicator of future maintenance costs than the car’s age alone. Get a complete service history: Look for evidence of regular servicing, repairs and replacement parts. A well-maintained older car can be more dependable than a neglected newer one. Run a history check:...

Petrol and Diesel Prices in Ireland Rise Sharply as Further Increases Loom

Aug12

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Petrol and Diesel Prices in Ireland Rise Sharply as Further Increases Loom

Posted by Geraldine Herbert on Aug 12, 2026

Petrol and Diesel Prices in Ireland Rise Sharply as Further Increases Loom

Petrol and diesel prices increased significantly in August, according to the latest fuel price analysis from AA Ireland. Diesel recorded the steepest rise, increasing by 19 cents per litre in just one month. The increases were driven by movements in wholesale markets rather than changes to excise duty, which remained unchanged throughout August. However, motorists face additional pressure at the pumps as the phased restoration of excise duty begins on 1 September. How Much...