Honda Civic Type R GT Pack
R is for red hot – the much anticipated Honda Civic Type-R makes its return writes Geraldine Herbert What is it? The new Honda Civic Type R is powered by the most extreme and high-performing engine in the model’s history and it is also the fastest-accelerating front-wheel-drive car on the market. Who is it aimed at? Honda is a company synonymous with reliability, well-built quality and engineering, but every once in a...
Ford Mondeo Vignale 2.0 Duratec 180PS
Ford targets premium buyers with their luxury trim level, writes Suzanne Keane What is it? The eagerly awaited new Ford Mondeo arrived on our shores late in 2014 and the “Vignale” model is intended to attract drivers looking for a little more luxury and exclusivity – the Mondeo Vignale will only be available at specialist Ford Stores (4 in Ireland) and comes with lifetime collection and delivery for servicing requirements....
OPC versus ST …It’s battle of the pocket rockets
Both are packing a real punch but which has that knockout blow to be crowned champ of super minis? asks Geraldine Herbert In the interest of full disclosure, I’ll admit that I have always had a soft spot for the Opel Corsa OPC – it was the first car I drove around the Nurburgring ring. At over 20 kilometres long, 300 metres of altitude change and 170 corners this legendary racetrack is considered the toughest, most dangerous...
Volkswagen Golf Estate
Looking for a little more practicality than a hatchback, Suzanne Keane test drives the VW Golf Estate to see how much more it offers What is it? The Volkswagen Golf has always been a popular choice on Irish roads but in estate form it offers extra practicality. Who is it aimed at? The Golf estate will appeal to a hatchback driver who needs some extra space in a car that looks a little more grown up. Styling? Previous models of the VW...
Volvo XC60 D4 (190hp) AWD ES
Can the Volvo XC60 tempt buyers away from the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Range Rover Evoque asks Hannah Gordon What is it? Not another SUV entering the market I hear you say, the Volvo XC60 has improved massively in the last year or two and is now a contender in leading the mid-size SUV market. With sharp and attractive styling, comfort and irritability the Volvo XC60 definitely deserves its place amongst the German competition. Who is it...
Mazda MX-5 1.5 Roadster GT
Roadsters always conjure up visions of freedom and fresh air and the Mazda MX-5 is no exception, writes Geraldine Herbert What is it? Deemed the most popular two-seat sports car in the world, it’s hard to disagree. Who is it aimed at? It’s now more than 25 years since the original Mazda MX-5 went on sale and the appeal is simple -it has always been eye-catching, a blast to drive and comes in at an affordable cost. So can...