Vans, Cars and Leasing

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class only experiences of few minor changes. The SLK350 is now only available in an automatic transmission. Part of what is new is the Edition 10 package created to celebrate the SLK’s 10 years in production. The exterior is available in black or silver with red and black interior, unique 10-spoke wheels, and smoked taillight and headlight bezels.

The SLK has evolved into a second generation model which was designed to please almost all but the very most demanding of drivers. The 2008 SLK resembles the evolved predecessor with a powerful engine lineup, strong brakes, a stiff platform and an available sport tuned suspension. The SLK is competitive with its rivals (such as the BMW Z4, the Nissan 350Z and the Porshe Boxster) because of its unusual for its class, retractable hardtop, and stylish cabin.

The SLK is a roadster made for 2 passengers. The roadster comes with three available trim levels: the SLK280, the SLK350, and the SLK55 AMG. The SLK280 comes standard with 16” alloy wheels, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, dual zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and a great sounding 9 speaker CD audio system.

The SLK350 features 17” wheels, larger brakes and a larger V6 engine. The SLK55 AMG adds a V8 engine for ultimate performance, features 18”wheels, larger brakes, sport tuned suspension, high performance tires, heated and power seats with memory on the driver side, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, unique interior and exterior trim details and upgraded leather upholstery.

Other SLK options include, navigation system, bi-xenon headlamps, a 380 watt surround sound audio system, glovebox mounted CD changer, an Airscarf system which provides heat trhourgh vents in the head restraints, and satellite radio. Special “designo” color –themed packages are also available based on exterior paint color and interior trim. The SLK280 and 350 can also be additionally equipped with a unique sports package which includes steering wheel mounted automatic transmission shift buttons, a sport tuned suspension and exterior styling details.

The SLK280 is powered by a 3.9 liter V6 that produces 228 hp and 221 pound-feet of torque, and the 3.5 liter V6 which produces 268 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The SLK280 comes with either a 6 speed manual or a 7 speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. The SLK350 is automatic only. The SLK55 AMG comes with a 5.4-liter V8 that produces 355hp and 376 pound-feet of torque, teamed with a 7 speed automatic transmission. The AMG claims to go from 0-60 in 5.1 seconds. The SLK350 has been timed at 6.3 seconds resepectiveily.

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class comes standard with TeleAid emergency call systerm, antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, traction control, knee airbags and side airbags for all models. The SLK is an exception to the perception that Mercedes-Benz is not really known for making cars for demanding drivers. This is the car for those who want to be seen driving in luxury with the performance, safety, look and great features to go along with it.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services Contract Hire UK
Mercedes Leasing - Mercedes SLK Leasing

Drivers could face being subject to random breath-testing as part of a new national crackdown on drink-driving.

According to the Daily Telegraph, ministers are convinced tougher enforcement is the key to reducing the number of alcohol-related road deaths.

The newspaper claims plans for random breath testing will be contained in a Department for Transport consultation document due out “within weeks”.

A spokeswoman for the DfT admitted today the department was in the process of drawing up a consultation document on drink-driving, although she stressed that the exact measures it would contain had “not been finalised as yet”.

But the Telegraph claims the proposals will allow senior police officers to set up roadside checkpoints for up to 24 hours, anywhere where there was a “reasonable belief” that drink or drug-driving was likely.

At the moment, police can carry out a breath test only if a motorist has been driving erratically, or if they have been involved in an accident or have committed some other motoring offence such as speeding.

Random breath-testing is thought to be back on the agenda partly because of the success of the recent Christmas drink-drive blitz.

Nationally, while the number of breath tests carried out rose, the number of drivers who failed tests fell.

That has led ministers to believe that the threat of increased breath-tests acted as a deterrent.

In its first attempt in the diesel arena, Lexus looks to score with the IS220d. The IS looks like a Lexus GS on steroids. It’s got a lot going on in the looks department which is a major selling point on its own. The Lexus is a car loaded with features for those who want a richer car owning experience.

The key new feature of the Lexus is its diesel engine. Unfortunately, the IS220d falls short of its rivals. The branding image that Lexus has earned in the market is based upon ultra-refined luxury. This turbo diesel does a good job in get you there is style.

So the Lexus IS220d can almost be considered a leader in its class. This particular model has the ability to get up and go quickly. It’s low emission as well, making it appealing to the corporate type buyer, especially with all of the extra bells and whistles which make it seem like a bargain for leasing. Fuel consumption in combined driving is 44.8mpg, extra urban is 52.3mpg and urban comes in at 35.8mpg.

Besides the engine, the other features of the IS220d are varying in acclaim. The six-speed manual stick is a bit long and laborious, but the pedals are great. The brake pedal is especially good compared to other cars in this class. All of the pedals are nicely weighted. The car has very good visibility with large, easily seen mirrors on the doors. The mirrors do produce some noise at speeds above 80mph, but its worth overlooking because of the excellent visibility they provide.

The IS220d goes from 0-60 in 8.9 seconds, with maximum speed of 134mph. This car is solid on the road, with a comfortable, controlled feeling. This is due to the excellent suspension and the 17-inch alloy wheels which come standard. Standard safety features also include twin, front, side and curtain airbags, ABS and ESP. The VDIM control system for stability provides sharp, pointed steering capabilities. When it comes to sliding the VDIM system is all control, managing not just the brakes, but the throttle and steering and even counter steering.

The counter steering does not get in the way of the driver, even in the event of full torque; the throttle response elicits only a slight feeling to the wheel. Full power returns rapidly once the detection system senses that the car has been righted. The systems in the car are complex, but they are easily accessible and just as easy to operate. What the Lexus lacks in engine prowess, it makes up for and one-ups its rivals. The audio, ventilation and satellite navigation systems are easy to operate. The functions are easy to use, and are not complicated at all.

Another area in which the Lexus surpasses its rivals is in after sales service. Lexus continues its due to the preponderance of other excellent features contained within. The car is designed and built for today’s car buyer and driver. It is perhaps these other excellent features of which Lexus is famous for, that makes the car so unique.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services Van & Car Leasing
Lexus Contract Hire - Lexus IS220D Leasing

French van makers Citroën and Peugeot will be offering a unique fleet management system when the new Berlingo and Partner vans go on sale in the second half of this year.
 

For the first time ever in a commercial vehicle, buyers will be able to specify a device which fits under the dashboard and connects wirelessly to the vehicle’s multiplexed network to transmit to a server mileage, inspection dates, average fuel consumption and other useful data. 

Meanwhile, warnings about engine temperature, oil levels, brakepad wear and other critical functions are reported to the fleet manager in realtime.

The new van was unofficially unveiled in Spain last week at the factory where it will be built.

So far 3.2 million Berlingos and Partners have been built since the originals were launched in 1996.

The new van is 4.38 metres long and in standard format offers a load volume of 3.3 cubic metres (against the old model’s 3.0 cu m) and payloads of between 625kg and 850kg.

Later in the year an extended model will be launched with the same wheelbase that will increase load volume further to 3.7 cubic metres.
 

The load area is wide enough to contain a standard Europallet while six load-lashing eyes will help keep cargo in place.

In the cab, the new van features three seats for the first time, although on our first inspection of the vehicle in Vigo there didn’t appear to be much legroom for the middle passenger. 

Meanwhile, this middle seat folds down to reveal a handy desk, while the outer passenger seat also folds to reveal extra cargo space, which allows for loads of up to three metres long to be stored.

Under the bonnet there will be a choice of petrol and diesel engines.

The 1.6 HDi diesel offers 75bhp or 95bhp, while returning 48.7mpg on the combined cycle and emitting 153g/km of CO2. The 1.6-litre petrol offers 90bhp, 34.4mpg and 195g/km of CO2.

There will also be MPV car versions of the two vehicles and a chassis-cab, while the old versions of Berlingo and Partner will continue on sale, re-named First and Origin.
Prices and specification will be revealed nearer launch date.

Honda has now introduced the Civic Type-R. It is a huge step up from is noisy, rough-rider predecessor. The new hatch is much better suited to daily living and usage. Make no mistake, just because the Type-R is more suitable to daily is, doesn’t mean that it’s lost anything on performance.

The 2.0-litre, i-VTEC engine can still provide 198bhp. She goes 0-60 in 6.6 seconds and tops out at 146mph. Maximum torque has been improved to peak at 5,600 rpm and acceleration has improved to a much quicker feel.

This new Civic only has the 3 door design. Buyers can choose the standard or GT specs. The GT pack includes: side curtain airbags, dual zone climate control, front fog lights, cruise control, automatic headlights, lockable glove box, and power folding door mirrors. As always, Honda is known for quality, reliable cars. The improvements to the Civic Type-R were made based on customer surveys, and not on any serious complaints about the previous model.

The VTEC engine has proven to be strong and reliable according to Honda. The power steering system in the Civic Type-R is solid and has a grounded feel. The driver can enjoy a continual sense of control and touch between the front wheels and the road. The steering system is unique to this model and does not occur in other Civics. Power delivery is smooth and light, not too front end heavy as compared to similar systems in competitors.

The Type-R has a much lighter feel and it really has some zip compared to some of its competitors. The Type-R rides lower than most Civics; 15mm in fact, its rear track is 20mm wider than what can be found in the 5-door Civics. The Type-R has torsion-beam rear suspension, providing for better cornering stability more boot space. It has extra fortifications on the front suspension, steer box mountings, and underside.

The new Type-R with its variable-valve engine provides for a much smoother, exciting drive. The VTEC responds at much lower speeds than the earlier model Type-R. Formerly dull drives are a thing of the past with this new Civic. Power delivery to the wheels has been improved with the shorter throw gear lever in the 6 speed manual transmission, there’s a new electronic wire driven throttle and a lower sixth gear final drive ratio.

The Civic has received a four star rating from Euro NCAP for overall occupant safety. It received four stars for child protection and three stars for pedestrian protection. Side and front airbags come standard, but with the GT specification curtain airbags are included. The car includes four 3-point seatbelts, two in front, and two in back, and on the front seatbelts there are pre-tensioners and Isofix child seat mounting points.

The Civic Type-R comes with the standard ABS and brakeforce distribution. The VSA stability control has been tuned just for this model, allowing more control to the driver before the electronic controls kick-in. It can be turned off with a switch located on the dashboard.
The Civic Type-R is more comfortable and much quieter than earlier models making the long distance trip much more enjoyable. The Type-R features remote central locking, an immobilizer, a Thatcham, Category one alarm and the lockable glove box found only in the GT model.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services Van & Car Leasing
Honda Contract Hire - Honda Civic Leasing

Tips for the Drivers Who Love Their Cars and Care For the Planet Too

We no longer find the world as cool as we used to find it in our childhood!

The earth is older and warmer—several places in the world do not experience snow fall in winter as before, the summers in many places have become too hot to bear. Rains don’t drench the lands the same way they used to do decades ago.

The earth is fighting a fierce battle of survival against the modern monster called “Global Warming”

The Green House Effect and its off spring global warming together are the byproducts of indiscriminate expansion of human civilization; more speed, higher performance, bigger production—-a need for more has made man much too dependent on machines.

Among all the machines, the motor car has been touted as the biggest contributor to the creation of pollution.

But we can’t do away completely with the cars. Returning to the ages of bicycles may make for the killer plot of a romantic novel, but it is definitely not practical.

So what do we do?

We have to think up ways to drive our cars in a way that make the least damage to our environment.

Act in a socially responsible manner

You don’t have to start your car engine every time you need to rush to the supermarket just a block away! It wastes a lot of fuel and adds more green house gases to the environment. Instead ride on your bicycle or just walk. The Japanese can teach the world a lesson in this respect—you will encounter more cyclists on a Tokyo road than any other parts of the world.

Another thing to learn from the Japanese in this respect is their well developed public transportation system based on the under ground railway network. Cutting down on private car usage and using public transport wherever you can is a great way to prevent further damage to your environment.

Be a responsible driver

Being a little bit careful while you drive can save a lot of precious fuel and prevent a new set of pollutants entering the air

Good planning makes you a truly green driver—choose your route to avoid congested roads. Consider covering as many as tasks possible in a single trip. Also try to share the car with your family members as well as your friends wherever possible.
Don’t rev up your car like crazy—you are not competing in a car race! Slow down to reduce fuel consumption. But drive on higher gears, as soon as traffic conditions allow.
Be caring about such parts of your car as accelerator, brake or clutch. Don’t be harsh on them—they will offer you better fuel efficiency.
Also try to drive light and switch off the engine whenever you are waiting for more than five minutes.
Also make sure that your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure for the vehicle.
Cut down on luxury

Treat air conditioning as a luxury and not a necessity. Use it sparingly whenever it is absolutely essential to use it. Also make sure that onboard electrical devices don’t eat up the fuel unnecessary.

Consider the cars based on environment friendly technology

Driving a hybrid car or electric car is the best way to go green. In London, electric cars are exempt from road tax & congestion charging. Over all insurance premiums may also be lower for the hybrid cars.

You can also use bio fuel or LPG in place of petrol and diesel to lower the impact of green house gas emissions.

You love your car—but you feel sorry about your environment too. There is no need to suffer from a guilt complex just because you love driving. Keep the above mentioned tips in mind while driving and be a green driver.

At the heart of defensive driving is a driver’s ability to anticipate situations, including the mistakes of other drivers, especially during less-than-ideal driving conditions.

You may be an excellent driver and a master of road rules, but there’s nothing like a basic knowledge of defensive driving to minimize risks on the road.

Here are six of the most important defensive driving techniques:

1. Let other drivers know of your intentions early
Sudden stops, turns and lane changes often lead to accidents because they catch other drivers by surprise. Hence, one of the basic rules of defensive driving is to clearly communicate to other drivers exactly what you are about to do. For this reason, it is crucial that your brake lights, head lights, signal indicators and other driving lights are working. If they are not, have them checked right away. Otherwise, defensive driving is not an option.

2. Being predictable helps
Having all your indicators in good working order is great, but they won’t help much if you can’t be predictable. Defensive driving is synonymous with being predictable - you do what you’re expected to do. If you’re signaling a left turn, then make a left turn. Don’t signal that you’re going left then suddenly turn right. And, by no means, don’t keep signaling a left or right turn then just going straight ahead for miles and miles. In defensive driving, one never makes a move that confuses other drivers on the road. Surprises are great, but never when you’re driving.

3. Know where you want to go
The first rule of defensive driving is: know where you want to go. There’s nothing quite as dangerous as making a sudden turn or stop, which is something that drivers do when they are not sure about where they are headed. Ditto for driving slowly then suddenly zooming fast. If you’re confused about where you you want to go, you’re probably confusing other people on the road as well. If you’re lost, park your car and regain your bearings. Check a map or street directory or maybe even ask someone for directions. The worst thing you can do is drive around aimlessly. That’s like looking for trouble with a capital T.

4. Make signaling a habit
One of the best defensive driving techniques is to signal every time you turn or change lanes. That way, you never catch other drivers by surprise. Make signaling a habit. Even if the road appears to be deserted and there seem to be no other vehicles around, signaling your intent is always an excellent defensive driving practice.

5. Warn others as you stop or slow down
When making a full stop or slowing down for whatever reason, it’s a good defensive driving technique to let other drivers know of your intention. You can do this by tapping the brake pedal a couple of times so that your brake lights flash and clue in others behind you that you are slowing down or stopping. This is especially important if the driver behind you is driving fast and approaching quickly.

6. Try to anticipate the worst in others
It may sound cynical and ’s not a good rule to follow in life but, in defensive driving, it pays to anticipate the mistakes of other drivers on the road. For instance, many drivers routinely signal a turn but don’t turn at all. Meanwhile, others don’t signal at all and then suddenly turn. Many people disregard stop signals or try to run red traffic lights so keep a watchful eye out for these instances.

Serg Caro. So, don’t forget that a basic knowledge of Defensive Driving helps drivers substantially minimize risks on the road. Please feel free to ask questions concerning vehicle insurance at Car Insurance forum.

Peugeot and Citroën have announced that they will launch new small vans this year, both based on the same platform.

The Peugeot Partner and the Citroën Berlingo update both firms’ successful small van offerings, and will also be featured in MPV form for passengers.

Both vans promise versatility, value for money and a new best load capacity in the small panel van segment.

They have a load volume of 3,300 litres and a maximum payload of 850kg.

The load area length is extendable from 1.8 to 3m thanks to a modular cabin arrangement (called MultiFlex by Peugeot and Extenso by Citroën), which allows three people to sit in the front – a sector first.

Peugeot has said the Partner will be powered by the 308’s HDi diesel engines.

Citroën has not released engine details, but has said that ESP and hill start assist will be available.

Both vans will have MPV siblings.

The Peugeot Partner Tepee includes three individually folding rear seats and a “multi-purpose roof” designed to let more light into the passenger compartment.

Citroën’s Berlingo Multispace features an independently opening tailgate window and promises lots of storage inside. Both brands will launch the vehicles in the second half of this year.

The optional V6 engine in the 2008 Toyota RAV4 sends this crossover compact to the top of its class. The 269 hp, six cylinder engine accelerates excpetionally well and compares in fuel economy with others in its class. This third generation RAV is a beefy vehicle with 73 cubic feet of cargo space and room for five passengers to sit comfortably. The third row seat provides enough room for two children or two small adults. There are lots of cubbies, 10 cupholders, and other family friendly features like an available rear-seat DVD systerm.

The 2008 Toyota RAV4 is a crossover SUV that is sized between the compact and midsize categories. There are 3 trim levels, the base, the Sport, and the Limited. Standard seating is for five, but the third row is optional on the base and Limited levels which increases the capacity to seven people. Standard features for the base trim level are 16” steel wheels with optional 17” alloys, rear tinted windows, keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, tilt/telesxcoping steering wheel, auxiliary audio jack and a 6 speaker stereo with CD/MP3 player. The Sport trim level includes 18”alloy wheels, foglights, a sport tuned suspension, heated side mirrors and many exterior details.

The Limited trim packaged features, dual-zone automatic climate control, 17” wheels, an 8 way poer driver seat, leather wrapped steering wheel and an in dash 6 CD changer which comes optional in the to lower trims. Options for the Limited trim package include heated front seats, rear seat DVD system and leather upholstery. The Limited and Sport trims come optional with upgraded, 9 speaker stereo systerm with satellite radio cpability, sunroof, and Bluetooth.

A 3.5-liter V6 is optional on all trim levels coupled to a 5 speed automatic transmission. This V6 can produce 269hp and 246 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain gets almost the same fuel economy as the less poerful 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine which comes standard and delivers 166 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque. The V6 gets 19mpg in the city and 27mpg on the highway. Getting four wheel drive only results ina loss of 1mpg on the highway. The RAV4 V6 4WD has been tested at 0-60 in 7.2 seconds.

All RAV4s may be equipped with front wheel drive or four wheel drive. The front wheel drive models have a limited slip differential while the electronic 4WD system sends most of the power to the front wheels while it identifies potential slippage. The RAV4 offers a 4WD lock feature that fixes the front/rear power split at 50/50 for snow driving and off-road driving.

Antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front seat side airbags and full length side curtain airbags come standard with every 2008 Toyota RAV4. Vehicles which come with the V6 and/or the third row seat also come equipped with hill-start assist and downhill assist control. The RAV4 earned the top rating in many of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tests.

The interior of the RAV4 features reclining rear seats, and they can slide forward or rearward 6.5 inches for increased cargo or passenger space. The RAV4 can instantly get a flat load floor with the flip of a lever. With the flat load floor, there is a maximum of 73 cubic feet of cargo. The RAV4 does feature a side-hinged tailgate which can be a bit inconvenient in tight spaces.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services Van & Car Leasing
Toyota Contract Hire - Toyota Rav 4 Leasing

Subaru is planning to move into the contract hire and leasing market on the back of the introduction of its new diesel engine in the Legacy.

Lawrence Good, Subaru UK’s managing director, said the company had no intention of abandoning its niche supplier status, but wanted to establish new relationships with contract hire and leasing companies.

“They will be, in effect, another sales force for us,” he said.

“Over the past few years we’ve not had a great relationship with them, but I think over the next few years we can deliver good service, maintenance and repair costs and residual values.

“Subaru had class-leading RVs up to about 18 months ago and we’re looking to get back to that.

“We definitely expect the diesel cars to perform better when it comes to residuals.

“We’ve got to get back to the days when buying a Subaru was a sound investment.”

He added: “There’s already work going on and we’re looking at getting long-term demonstrators to contract hire and leasing companies.”

In 2009 Mr Good expects the diesel option to make up 85% of Legacy sales and 95% of Foresters.

The diesel Impreza is less likely to overtake the petrol version – predictions are that diesel will make up 45% of sales.

The Tribeca SUV will not feature a diesel engine as it is built in America, primarily for the diesel-shunning US market.

“We expect to sell 10,000 cars a year in total, of which 7,000 will be diesel,” added Mr Good.