Indholdsfortegnelse for June 2016 i What Car?

‘The VW Tiguan is the first major launch by the firm since dieselgate’ The new Volkswagen Tiguan is the first major launch by the company since the dieselgate scandal, and the car is very good indeed. The question now is whether buyers will respond and be persuaded to buy, or hold off until they see how the enduring scandal is resolved. So far, VW’s UK sales have held reasonably firm, with anecdotal evidence suggesting existing VW owners are staying loyal to the brand, but potential new ones are being cautious – and who could blame them? Much rests on VW showing humility and efficiency in solving its past wrongdoings, proving it is a firm that can be trusted again. If it can, and the car launches continue to be as…

‘Tesla claims the Model 3 is the fastest selling car of all time’ First look Tesla’s most affordable model could be the car to take electric transport to the masses On sale Now Price from £30,000 (est) TESLA’S FIRST MASS-MARKET car, the Model S, has been a big hit. It has proved that electric models can be luxurious, reliable and mainstream. It’s now four years on from the introduction of the Model S, and Tesla has gone from strength to strength. Last year the company unveiled its new electric SUV, the Model X, and now there’s a more affordable saloon, the Model 3. If you’re wondering about the impact of the Model 3, then consider this. Within the first 72 hours of the car going on sale, 276,000 customers had…

First drive BMW’s smallest hot performance car arrives with turbocharged power Verdict Great fun to drive, if more expensive than some rivals BMW CARS PREFIXED with the letter ‘M’ are even more ultimate driving machines than regular BMWs. They include serious engineering modifications: not just hotter engines and tweaked handling, but often major bodywork changes too. This new M2 is the latest, and currently smallest, M car in the BMW range. It’s based on the 2 Series coupé, the quickest variant of which has hitherto been the M235i. The M2 sits somewhere between that car and the bigger, more comprehensively modified M4 coupé and its M3 saloon sibling. Unlike those bigger cars, however, the M2 doesn’t get adaptive dampers or any carbonfibre bodywork, while its 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine only has…

First drive VW’s popular saloon is modified with fuel economy and CO2 emissions in mind Verdict The most efficient Passat you can buy, but there are cheaper and more practical rivals THE PASSAT BLUEMOTION is the model that you’ll be considering if fuel economy and CO2 emissions are a top priority. It gets the same 1.6-litre diesel engine as the standard 1.6 TDI Passat, complete with 118bhp. The Bluemotion differs by the longer gearing of its six-speed manual gearbox, a 15mm lower ride height, unusual aerodynamic bumpers, styling tweaks, and low rolling resistance tyres. This all adds up to a CO2 figure of 95g/km, which means benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax of £149 per month for 40% taxpayers, although the Ford Mondeo 1.5 TDCi Econetic and Skoda Superb Greenline SE models do…

First drive Sports car loses a couple of cylinders but gains a turbocharger Verdict Not quite as characterful as before but still a mighty sports car THE RADICALLY UPDATED 718 Boxster is still mid-engined, rear-wheel drive and available with a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. However, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine now sits behind the driver, with more power and lower CO2 emissions than its six-cylinder predecessor. Crucially, this is a bespoke engine that’s unique to Porsche, with its cylinders lying flat, rather than upright, as they do in the vast majority of four-cylinder engines. The Boxster S we’re testing gets a 2.5-litre engine with 345bhp, and the standard car a 295bhp 2.0-litre unit. Almost the whole body has been changed, and new axles have been inherited from the…

First drive Luxury cruiser has BMW, Maserati, and even Bentley firmly in its sights Verdict Incredible refinement, brilliant performance and impressive handling – a superb all-rounder THE MERCEDES S-CLASS stands for the ultimate in limousine luxury and has led the way in technology and safety for years. Last year Mercedes launched a coupé version of its latest limo, and now it has lost its roof to become the Cabriolet. It’s available with three engines: a 4.7-litre turbocharged V8 in the S 500, a bi-turbo 5.5-litre V8 in the S 63 AMG and a 6.0-litre turbocharged V12 in the range-topping S 65 AMG. The S 500 is available in just one trim – AMG Line – and costs a whopping £110,000. That puts it in competition not only with rival luxury…

First look Hot version of the C-Class soft-top rivals the BMW M4 Convertible On sale October Price from £66,000 (est) SINCE LAUNCHING LAST year, the C-Class has become a credible competitor for rivals, such as the BMW 3 Series and the Audi A4. As you’d expect, it’s been followed by a number of spin-off models including the Coupé and Cabriolet. Now, Mercedes’ performance arm, AMG, has introduced the hot version of the drop-top model, the C 63 Cabriolet. The four-seater will go on sale in October, which will cost from around £66,000 – a considerable premium over its key rival, the BMW M4 Convertible, which is priced at £61,150. The C 63 Cabriolet’s styling is similar to the Coupé’s and includes a new front bumper, an aluminium bonnet which is…

New car, service, repair and warranty issues motorcodes.co.uk Citizens’ Advice Bureau citizensadvice.org.uk Check a car has a valid MoT test certificate motinfo.gov.uk Check if a car has outstanding finance whatcar.com/historycheck Trading standards tradingstandards.gov.uk Financial Conduct Authority fca.org.uk Check if a vehicle has been recalled gov.uk/ check-if-a-vehicle-has-been-recalled Check car crash safety ratings euroncap.com Your car loan questions answered whatcar.com/ car-news/carloanfaqs…

LESS THAN £10,000 Skoda Citigo Our pick 1.0 60 SE 5dr List price £9485 Target Price £9084 MPG 62.8 CO 2 105g/km For It’s economical, reasonably practical, solidly built and feels grown-up to drive. Against It’s not as classy as the Volkswagen Up and the 59bhp engine can struggle at speed. What Car? says Seat Mii Our pick 1.0 SE Technology 3dr List price £10,210 Target Price £9753 MPG 62.8 CO 2 105g/km For The Mii feels remarkably grown-up to drive, and is cheaper than the near-identical VW Up. Against It’s not as well finished inside as the Up and this version can feel slow on faster roads. What Car? says Suzuki Celerio Our pick 1.0 Dualjet SZ3 List price £8499 Target Price £8219 MPG 78.4…

LESS THAN £25,000 Skoda Superb Our pick 2.0 TDI 150 SE Business List price £22,555 Target Price £20,631 MPG 68.9 CO 2 108g/km For Masses of standard kit, a huge amount of rear leg room and boot space, and good to drive. Against Other executive cars are more fun to drive and have stronger resale values. What Car? says Volkswagen Passat Our pick 2.0 TDI 150 SE List price £24,585 Target Price £22,490 MPG 67.3 CO 2 106g/km For Drives very well, with a good ride and refined diesel engine. The interior is top notch. Against Some rivals are more practical, while the dashboard design is a bit dull. What Car? says Audi A3 Saloon Our pick 2.0 TDI 150 Sport List price £25,035 Target Price…

LESS THAN £18,000 Skoda Fabia Estate Our pick 1.2 TSI 90 SE List price £14,765 Target Price £13,629 MPG 60.1 CO 2 107g/km For It’s one of the roomiest small estate cars around and SE trim brings air-con and a touchscreen. Against The ride is unsettled over poorer surfaces and the dashboard looks a little dull. What Car? says Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Our pick 1.0i 105 Turbo Design List price £17,285 Target Price £16,128 MPG 65.7 CO 2 100g/km For There’s plenty of room, equipment is generous and the engine is a willing performer. Against The boot isn’t that flexible and some rivals are better to drive. What Car? says Kia Cee’d Sportswagon Our pick 1.4 CRDi 89 1 ISG List price £17,395 Target Price…

LESS THAN £25,000 Mazda CX-5 Our pick 2.2d 150 SE-L Nav 2WD List price £24,995 Target Price £23,249 MPG 61.4 CO 2 119g/km For Lots of space and kit for a good price, while CO2 emissions and economy are impressive. Against Firm low-speed ride, and wind and road noise can intrude at speed. What Car? says Nissan X-Trail Our pick 1.6 dCi Acenta 2WD List price £25,255 Target Price £23,113 MPG 57.6 CO 2 129g/km For It’s comfortable, has a spacious and classy interior, a large boot and lots of equipment. Against Body control is sloppy and the diesel engine is noisy. What Car? says Honda CR-V Our pick 1.6 i-DTEC 120 SE List price £26,060 Target Price £23,462 MPG 64.2 CO 2 115g/km…

LESS THAN £25,000 Seat Leon SC Our pick 1.4 EcoTSI 150 FR List price £20,225 Target Price £18,712 MPG 57.6 CO 2 114g/km For It’s quick, agile, economical and excellent value. There’s good space for people and bags. Against A few bits of cabin trim feel low-rent and there’s too much wind noise at speed. What Car? says BMW 2 Series Our pick 218d SE List price £25,100 Target Price £23,215 MPG 62.8 CO 2 119g/km For It rides and handles well, and the diesel engine is punchy and economical. Against The rear seats are cramped for adults and the engine is noisy. What Car? says Volkswagen Scirocco Our pick 2.0 TDI 150 GT List price £25,580 Target Price £23,459 MPG 67.3 CO 2…

A BROKER CAN SUPPLY ME WITH A NEW BMW X5 SOONER THAN MY LOCAL DEALER CAN. Is this possible? The broker might have pre-ordered one on the basis he’d be able to find a buyer, or he may have a cancelled order. Ask to see proof, though, and get the delivery date in writing, too. A BROKER IS CHARGING ME A FINDER’S FEE OF £1000. Is this right? Shop elsewhere. There is nothing to stop brokers charging finder’s fees, but, as a general rule, most reputable brokers earn their commission from the dealer, not the customer. IS IT SAFE TO PAY THE BROKER BEFORE I’VE TAKEN DELIVERY? The safest options are to pay the dealer directly, or into an ‘escrow’ holding account until the car is ready for delivery. Always…

First drive All-new Tiguan aims to take on upmarket rivals Verdict Larger, more spacious SUV looks and feels premium, but remains pricey compared with the opposition THERE WASN’T MUCH wrong with the old Volkswagen Tiguan. It was spacious, fun to drive and came with a flexible and practical cabin designed with families in mind. Based on the Golf hatchback, it was a more affordable alternative to the larger, more luxurious Touareg in the Volkswagen range. Next to today’s rivals, however, the old Tiguan was being left behind. The Nissan Qashqai stands head and shoulders above most cars in this segment, and new players, such as the Hyundai Tucson, refreshed Ford Kuga and Mazda CX-5, offer buyers more car for less money. Enter the all-new, second-generation Tiguan. It’s longer, wider and…

First drive Along with a new name, Mercedes roadster gets a refresh Verdict Although improved, the SLC can’t match best in class THE CHANGES TO Mercedes’ naming convention continue apace, with the latest model to receive the update being its two-seat open-top, no longer the SLK but instead now the SLC. The new ‘C’ replaces the ‘K’ because the SLC shares much of its technology with the C-Class saloon. The SLC is offered in two basic trims: Sport and AMG Line, with two turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engines of differing power outputs and a 2.1-litre diesel. At the top of the range sits the turbocharged 3.0 V6 petrol Mercedes-AMG 43 model. It’s the first of many V6 43 performance variants that will be introduced across Mercedes’ range. Here we focus on…

First drive Hot version of the DS 3 packs a turbocharged engine and sporty styling inside and out Verdict Not the leader of the hot supermini pack, but still has its merits THE OLD CITROEN DS 3 enjoyed sales success but never managed to achieve iconic hot hatch status. Now named DS 3 under the newly formed DS brand, this Performance model aims to change that. There has been a hot hatch version of this popular supermini before, but it was a low-volume model with a limited lifespan. Five years later, the DS 3 Performance resurrects the idea. It’s a 205bhp variant intended to rival the Mini Cooper S and Ford Fiesta ST. ‘The firmer suspension responds well to more exuberant driving’ Lively performer The standard DS 3 supermini has…

First drive Warmed-up supermini takes on rivals from Ford and Seat Verdict Plenty of appeal, although others are better to drive and cheaper to run UNTIL NOW, THE fourth-generation Corsa range was split between mild-mannered superminis and the scorchingly hot Corsa VXR. The Corsa Red Edition aims to bridge the performance chasm between the most powerful SRi model and the hardcore VXR. Accordingly, it gets a 148bhp version of Vauxhall’s 1.4 turbocharged petrol engine, sports suspension, an aggressive bodykit, contrasting black roof, and smart 17in alloys. ‘The 1.4-litre turbo engine pulls well from 2000rpm but is a little flat below that’ Turbocharged power This engine is a step up over the next most powerful model in the range, the 98bhp 1.4T. It pulls well from around 2000rpm, but is a…

First drive High-riding, jacked-up estate version of our current Car of the Year Verdict Likeable enough, but not the logical choice in the A4 range MILDLY ENHANCED OFF-ROAD ability and a slightly more rugged appearance proved attractive enough to buyers for the first generation of the Audi A4 Allroad to be considered a significant success. Its replacement, still halfway between Audi’s A4 Avant quattro model and the Q5 SUV, doesn’t attempt to alter the formula. However, it’s new from the ground up, including an updated engine line-up and the next generation of quattro all-wheel drive system, which is intended to make the set-up more economical. It does this by allowing the A4 Allroad to function as a front-wheel-drive car when circumstances permit. Initially, this part-time four-wheel drive system, dubbed ‘quattro…

‘Only the RF’s middle roof section and rear window are stowed, as opposed to the entire roof’ First look The Mazda MX-5 gets a retractable hard-top and an optional automatic gearbox On sale Early 2017 Price from £21,000 (est) IF YOU’RE A Mazda MX-5 fan, this is the version you’ll be buying. The previous folding hard-top MX-5, the Roadster Coupé, accounted for 80% of sales in the UK, and Mazda is expecting a similar split for the latest model, now known as the RF (for retractable fastback). Mazda has ensured that the roof mechanism intrudes no farther into the boot space than the standard, soft-topped MX-5, so capacity remains at a not hugely practical 130 litres. The car’s weight, however, is up by 40kg because of the heavier roof and…

LESS THAN £12,000 Dacia Sandero Our pick 1.2 Ambiance List price £6795 Target Price £6764 MPG 48.7 CO 2 130g/km For Lots of space for the money, plus a proven four-cylinder petrol engine from Renault. Against The interior and equipment list are basic, while the low-speed ride is lumpy. What Car? says Suzuki Swift Our pick 1.2 SZ3 3dr List price £10,599 Target Price £10,069 MPG 56.5 CO 2 116g/km For Lots of equipment as standard and a smart cabin. It’s also fun to drive. Against The engine is noisy and a little gutless at motorway speeds. What Car? says Seat Ibiza Our pick 1.0 EcoTSI 95 SE 5dr List price £13,975 Target Price £11,481 MPG 67.3 CO 2 98g/km For Rides and handles…

LESS THAN £16,000 Citroën C3 Picasso Our pick 1.2 Puretech Edition List price £16,050 Target Price £12,182 MPG 56.5 CO 2 115g/km For The interior is spacious and the boot is big. Ride comfort and refinement impress. Against Some rivals are cheaper and the engine feels a bit weedy on faster roads. What Car? says Ford B-Max Our pick 1.4 90 Zetec List price £14,995 Target Price £13,164 MPG 47.1 CO 2 139g/km For The engine is eager, Zetec trim brings plenty of kit and rear-seat access is easy. Against There are only five forward gears, so motorway driving can be tiresome. What Car? says Peugeot Partner Tepee Our pick 1.6 BlueHDi 100 Active 7 seats List price £17,280 Target Price £15,665 MPG 68.9 CO…

First drive Four-cylinder diesel version challenges Audi Q5 and BMW X3 Verdict Low running costs could make 2.0 diesel most popular UK model THE JAGUAR F-PACE SUV is a rival to everything from the Porsche Macan to the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo XC60, such is the breadth of its powertrain options and pricing structure, which range from a relatively frugal four-cylinder diesel through to a sporty V6 petrol, priced from £36,670 to £50,230 respectively. Here we’re testing the Jaguar F-Pace 2.0d AWD auto, priced towards the lower end of the range and powered by the engine that’s expected to be most popular with buyers, the 178bhp 2.0-litre diesel. ‘Perhaps the standout feature of the F-Pace is its ability to be both agile and comfortable’ Upmarket exterior…

THE AUDI A3 is one of the best family cars on sale today and was What Car? Car of the Year winner in 2013. In hatchback, Saloon, Cabriolet and five-door Sportback forms, it’s an outstanding car in almost every respect, and is consistently among the best-selling cars in the UK. However, to keep pace with rivals, such as the BMW 1 Series and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Audi has given the A3 a mild refresh. New engines The updated A3 gets the same range of engines as the current car, but also gets the option of two new motors. First is a turbocharged, three-cylinder 1.0-litre unit, similar to those fitted in the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra. In the A3 it produces 113bhp, and is expected to at least match the 57.6mpg…

‘Its claimed economy of 202mpg makes this the most fuel efficient plug-in hybrid on the market’ IF THE SUBJECT of green and eco-friendly cars has ever come up in your local pub, then chances are that the Toyota Prius will have been mentioned. It is the car that brought the concept of hybrid technology to the general public, and it’s been at the forefront of the market ever since. Now Toyota has added a new Prius to its range in the form of this plug-in hybrid version. The chief difference here is that while the regular hybrid is powered jointly by an electric motor and petrol engine, this plug-in hybrid features a bigger battery that can be charged via a mains cable, with the vast majority of power coming from…

First drive The long-awaited hot hatch returns with four-wheel drive and nearly 350bhp Verdict Not as easy to live with as a Golf R, but just as rewarding – perhaps more so – to drive IT’S A GREAT time to buy an exciting hot hatch. There are already several excellent models to choose from, but now the one that’s got enthusiasts salivating has arrived: the new Ford Focus RS. Ford has a pedigree of delivering when it comes to fast road cars, and having RS in the name means it’s even more special. On the technical side you get a 2.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine sourced from the latest Ford Mustang, coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox that will satisfy purists. As with the Volkswagen Golf R, the Focus RS’s drive…

First drive Entry-level soft-top uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine Verdict Low on character and not as accomplished as German rivals WE’VE ALREADY DRIVEN the new Ford Mustang V8 GT Fastback coupé, complete with a 5.0-litre V8 motor. Here we have a very different proposition. This is the convertible version, and although you can still order it with the V8, the one we’re driving has the smaller 2.3-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The Convertible’s closest rivals are the BMW 420i Convertible, which is similar in size but slower and more expensive, and the smaller Audi A31.8 TFSI Cabriolet, which is a better match on price. Muted engine The engine’s quiet, which is normally a plus. However, in a sports convertible, especially one that can be had with a burbling V8, the smooth…

First look Concept car gives us an early indication of what Skoda’s upcoming Kodiaq SUV will be like On sale March 2017 Price from £20,000 (est) SKODA’S KODIAQ SUV will be revealed in production form at the Paris motor show this September. It will fight it out with the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and Nissan X-Trail when it arrives here in March next year, priced from around £20,000. It’ll seat five people as standard, with the seven-seat version priced at around £23,000. Power is sent to the front wheels as standard, although you’ll be able to specify an optional four-wheel drive system. Prior to the Kodiaq’s arrival, Skoda unveiled the VisionS concept at the Geneva motor show in March. It says the VisionS is about 80% the same as…

Shami Kalra and his 19-year-old daughter, Freya, managed to reduce her insurance premium from £1400 to £958 per annum when they switched to a Tesco Black Box policy for her 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. As well as the big saving, Shami believes the black box has made Freya a safer driver. “The feedback that’s sent out to her is also available to me, so I can see how she is driving. The fact that I know what’s going on as well is influencing the way she drives,” says Shami. “The insurance policy is limited to 10,000 miles a year, but if Freya shows she is driving sensibly and responsibly, she can earn up to 100 bonus miles every month,” he added.…

‘The BMW and Mercedes are refined, with smooth engines at tickover and under acceleration’ ‘The Jaguar’s desirability and newness help to keep depreciation to a minimum’ THE CONTENDERS BMW 5 Series 520d SE auto List price £34,165 Target Price £29,744 The undefeated champ of the large executive car class. Can it continue to fend off newer rivals? Jaguar XF 2.0d 180 Prestige auto List price £34,550 Target Price £31,917 Sharp-driving Jaguar has already impressed in V6 diesel form. This 2.0 trades power for lower CO2 . Mercedes-Benz E-Class E 220 d SE List price £35,935 Target Price £34,701 Brand new Mercedes beats its rivals on CO2 emissions and comes lavishly equipped out of the box. THE MODERN CAR world moves at such a fast pace that it’s rare for any…

LESS THAN £16,000 Vauxhall Astra Our pick 1.0T 105 Design List price £15,995 Target Price £14,928 MPG 65.7 CO 2 99g/km For Good to drive and well equipped, with a comfortable, roomy cabin. Against The steering assistance is too light and lumbar adjustment costs extra. What Car? says Nissan Pulsar Our pick 1.2 DIG-T Visia List price £13,995 Target Price £12,915 MPG 56.5 CO 2 117g/km For There’s plenty of room for occupants and their luggage, and there’s lot of equipment. Against Several rivals have stronger resale values and lower running costs. What Car? says Seat Leon Our pick 1.2 TSI 110 SE List price £17,700 Target Price £15,997 MPG 57.6 CO 2 114g/km For The engine is refined, running costs are low and…

LESS THAN £15,000 Suzuki Vitara Our pick 1.6 SZ4 List price £13,999 Target Price £13,157 MPG 49.4 CO 2 123g/km For The Vitara is good to drive, has a practical interior and SZ4 trim brings lots of equipment. Against CO2 emissions are comparatively high and the steering weight is too light. What Car? says Renault Captur Our pick 0.9 TCe 90 Dynamique Media Nav List price £15,395 Target Price £13,957 MPG 56.5 CO 2 115g/km For It’s refined, well equipped and roomy for four adults. The sliding rear bench is practical. Against The interior plastics feel hard and cheap, while the engine is underpowered. What Car? says Kia Soul Our pick 1.6 CRDi 134 Connect List price £16,600 Target Price £14,763 MPG 58.8 CO 2…

LESS THAN £15,000 Suzuki Swift Our pick 1.6 Sport 3dr List price £13,999 Target Price £13,298 MPG 44.1 CO 2 147g/km For Loves to be thrashed, thanks to a rev-hungry engine and snappy gearchange. Against The cabin is plain, so there’s none of the ‘wow’ factor that hot hatch buyers crave. What Car? says Seat Ibiza SC FR Our pick 1.4 TSI 150 List price £16,245 Target Price £13,712 MPG 60.1 CO 2 109g/km For Gutsy engine, low running costs, plenty of equipment and a spacious interior. Against Some rivals are more fun to drive and the cabin plastics feel cheap. What Car? says Fiat 500 Abarth Our pick 595 List price £14,610 Target Price £14,610 MPG 47.1 CO 2 139g/km For Small hot…

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RUNNING A CAR ON CONTRACT HIRE AND LEASING? Contract hire is actually a form of leasing – effectively it is an operating lease. ‘Leasing’ is a general, catch-all term that includes finance lease and lease purchase, as well as contract hire. I’M SELF-EMPLOYED AND WANT A CAR FOR MOSTLY BUSINESS USE. Should I go for contract hire or investigate a PCP? Personal contract hire isn’t proving as popular as personal contract purchase (PCP) among private individuals and the self-employed. Monthly payments are often broadly similar, but at the end of the deal a PCP gives you the flexibility to own the car for an extra lump sum or, potentially, a bit of cash to put towards a deposit on another PCP deal. If you find you…