new car uk

Ford Dumps Mercury Brand

2010-06-02T21:40:00.000-07:00

Like GM, Ford Motor Company is continuing to shrink its brand portfolio. Following the recent sale of Volvo Cars to China's Geely, with which it completed the dismantling of the premium group that once included Aston Martin, Jaguar and Land Rover, the Deaborn automaker made it official today that it will terminate the Mercury division in the fourth quarter of this year.

Given Mercury's declining sales over the years (the brand holds a pitiful 0.8 percent market share in the U.S. - overall Ford has 16%) and the fact that its entire lineup comprises of re-grilled / re-badged Ford models, the announcement was no surprise.

Some had suggested in the past that Mercury should do what GM is doing with Buick - enhance its U.S. lineup with Ford's European models, but apparently that role is partially going to Ford with the new Euro-style Fiesta and Focus cars.

Ford admitted that the majority of current Mercury sales are to fleet buyers and customers purchasing through employee, retiree and friends and family discounts, which the company anticipates can be satisfied by Ford brand vehicles.

The company added that it will work closely with Mercury dealers and customers during the transition, providing providing existing owners with access to parts and service support at Ford and Lincoln dealers and by honoring current warranties.

"We are 100 percent committed to supporting Mercury owners through Ford and Lincoln dealerships and working hard to keep them as valued customers in the future," said Ford President, Mark Fields.

"At the same time, we will work closely with our dealers to phase out Mercury franchises and continue to build a healthy, growing Lincoln with strong new products and a profitable dealer network that delivers a world-class customer experience."

Mercury was introduced into the market 71 years ago by Edsel Ford as a Buick-like, mid-priced alternative to mainstream Ford and luxury Lincoln models.

The brand's sales peaked at 579,498 units in 1978, but have since plunged to just 92,299 vehicles in 2009. In the first quarter of 2010, Mercury's sales accounted for a mere 1.9% of FoMoCo's global sales.

BMW Concept Gran Coupé

2010-04-24T10:07:00.000-07:00

BMW Concept Gran Coupé – Click above for high-res image gallery

Four-door coupes are nothing new these days, what with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Volkswagen CC proving that these stylish sedans do, in fact, have a place in the automotive world. What's more, Audi's swoopy A7 is nearing its final stages of development, and higher-end coupe-sedans like the Aston Martin Rapide and Porsche Panamera have indeed caught our attention in recent months. BMW is now jumping on that train, and the automaker has officially debuted its Concept Gran Coupé at this year's Beijing Motor Show.

Strip away the rear doors, and the design of the Gran Coupé is awfully close to what we'll see on the next-generation 6 Series. The sporty, flat design of the concept is really stunning, and BMW points out that the Gran Coupé is actually 100 millimeters (four inches) flatter than both the 5 and 7 Series sedans. Combine that with frameless doors and LED lighting all around and what we have here is a rather stunning design.

BMW is one of the only luxury automakers not currently participating in the four-door coupe niche market, and we won't be surprised if a production version of the Gran Coupé hits the streets within the next couple of years. Even so, we're interested to see how this new design language influences the rest of the automaker's portfolio, even beyond the 6 Series. Hit the jump to read BMW's official press release and click through the gallery below to see high-res images of the stylish new concept.

Beijing 2010: BMW Concept Gran Coupe

Ready For A-Z

2010-03-18T23:32:00.000-07:00

Car Jargon busters funding is important to understand what the fund companies to speak - so you maximize your money.

We are working with experts of the money to this essential guide to finance jargon.

Now compare loans.

AER
Equivalent per year - the best way to savings and checking accounts to compare. AER is how they calculate the interest paid to you. It shows the interest you earn your money, if paid once a year and built each year.

April
Annual Percentage Rate - an annual debt interest costs and fees that often. Lenders are legally required to disclose the April The rate is calculated in a standard, while the average interest rate was constructed over the entire duration of the loan, borrowers can compare loans. For example, in mortgages, the interest on a mortgage when taking into account interest, mortgage insurance and closing costs, including payments of a number of points at the closing ceremony.

Overdraft
This is the agreed limit where a person can not exceed the balance of the account.

Credit
To borrow money and promised an unspecified later date, usually with a form of premium (interest) on the original amount.

Creditors
The person or organization that you owe money.

Credit Cards
There are several credit cards in the UK than people, so you probably, I had one! See credit. Paying for things on a credit card, borrow money and promised to repay it with interest. The sooner you pay the interest, unless you initiate. Credit cards come with a mandatory interest-free period of approximately 50 days.

Credit Sales
This means that you have to finance the transaction with a loan repayable over a longer period have acquired. In most cases it is a form of seller financing. Washing machines and televisions are often sold. The retailer will provide you with a financial partner. They have the goods immediately, which means they can not remove from you if you will be too late.

Credit scoring
The rating system used by lenders to work when you are at high risk to borrow money. Normally you will consider your credit rating you pay your bills in time, the number and type of account you have, the judgments of the courts and any outstanding debts.

Conditional sales
Another name for a lease-purchase agreement.

Debtor
- If you have a credit card, loan or mortgage. In short, this means that you owe someone money.

Default
If your "default" for a loan or debt, you can pay your repayments as agreed. This can often lead to cash penalties.

Depreciation
The dictionary would tell you that the decline in value of an asset "capital". In reality, the cost of ownership and use something - for example, reduces the value of a car, the longer you own and use.

Debits
A periodic payment (usually an invoice or payment) from a bank or building society, an organization - but only with permission of the account holder.

Fixed rates
A contract which you agreed a pay rate for a limited time. The most commonly used with a mortgage, homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that their repayments to be independent, that the Bank of England base rate. Remember, when the contract expires, you are often at a higher variable rate.

GER
Guaranteed value determination - as a "balloon payment" - this is the last lump payment to pay you for your car based on the expected depreciation, as you know is buying a RPP.

HP
Hire purchase - a new way to buy a car, often used to buy white goods like refrigerators and freezers. You agree to pay in installments, but for yourself what you buy the last installment is paid. Until then, technically, the company that you bought her property.

Lease
A record of recruiting practices. According to the law on consumer loans of all leases must be addressed in writing - and they have specific information in specific ways. Do not settle for anything less than a formal lease, if you rent a car.

In Store Finance
These offers can help pay for expensive purchases such as furniture or major appliances over a period of time. The sellers often offer zero percent interest for a certain period and in some cases, you can delay the start of the money back to pay for one years.

Interest
There are two broad phrase "interests" of the finances:
1. A tax on the repayment of borrowed money (credit, loans, etc.), often as a percentage of the total amount you can borrow expressed.
2. A return on the investment - for example, banks pay you interest on your savings.

Ready
Borrow money, usually in advance with the terms of repayment, for a limited time.

Usurers
Too avoid. Sharks loans to borrow money at your home, but an exorbitant interest rates. They are totally unregulated and there are ways things go wrong, unless you pay your debts.

MGFV
Final Price Guaranteed Minimum Values - The MGFV is what your car at a PCP contract ends, as long as you are not exceeded mileage limits of the party. If all goes well, the amount you pay to buy the car at the end of the contract.

PCH
Personal Contract Hire - a way to get a car for a long time to rent on a fixed price. The bit personal "means that only individuals can register as a company. You agree with a monthly rent by various conditions, such as total miles traveled, vehicle maintenance and repair.

CFP
Personal contract purchase - the process whereby a vehicle is rented for a specified period at a fixed monthly cost, then at the end of the contract you the option to purchase or send it with nothing to pay.

PPI
Payment Protection Insurance - insurance, if you can no payments for loans, mortgages and credit cards to make, because you can not work, for example if you lose your job through no fault of the hand or sick pay. Can be expensive, and there is some criticism.

Secured Loan
Borrow money and to ensure that all to pay with interest by offering an asset (usually home) against the loan. If you can not repay the money, would you have taken possession of your home. You can usually more loans with a secured loan than an unsecured loan.

Standing Order
Another way to perform periodic payments. You organize your bank to send a certain amount from your bank account to another electronically. Often used to pay the rent or the repayment of a loan.

Ranger Card
A type of credit only to particular stores. Save often come with a discount or incentive for customers to use. But beware - they often come with a very high rate.

Subprime rate
That are outside the normal category for a lender to calculate the cost of a loan, often called "subprime". They can unemployed, or a self-rating after the bills or not pay the debt to be repaid in the past low.

Illegal overdraft
A negative balance, without authorization from your bank. For more than balanced by too much you will pay a fee.

Unsecured Loans
Borrowing money - but without any guarantee against the return. Typically, the amount you can borrow is the loan is then secured.

Variable rate
The interest to be up or down based on the Bank of England. You decide whether we should pay more or less to borrow money from lenders and a corresponding increase or decrease. If you have a mortgage, a variable mortgage, the Bank of England base rate and keeping your repayments or fall in tandem.

Now compare loans.

New Tata Sumo Grande MK II

2010-03-08T19:48:00.000-08:00

New Tata Sumo Grande MK II

Quick Take
* Fuel Economy	14 / 10 km/l (city/highway),2.2L I-4 Diesel
Available Engines	2.2L DICOR Inline-4, Diesel
Available Transmissions	5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

* Estimated values may differ under various conditions.

Highlights

Pros

Cons

DICOR Engine
Lavish interior.
Exterior Styling.

Impressive mileage.
Spacious Cabin.
Wide Wheelbase.

Dashboard design.

Overview

When Tata Motors thought about improving the popular Sumo, it must have thought about a toy. This SUV is indeed a toy but for the big boys. The metamorphosis of the Sumo into the Sumo Grande is witnessed in virtually every section of the vehicle. And it should be as Tata has spent more than Rs. 300 Crore to make it look ‘Grande’.

The design of the Sumo Grande is eye-catching and so are all the attractive colours it is available in. The vehicle gets the look of a sophisticated personal car. It is also a perfect car for weekend outings by large families.

Now the Sumo Grande has become grander with cosmetic surgery and has been renamed the Grande Mk II. On the outset, the SUV's grille has been accentuated by a new chrome lined grill. The wheel arches still remain more prominent and the bumpers look muscular. And to top it off, side rub rails now come with chrome inserts and indicators are installed on the ORVMs to accentuate the look of the new Sumo Grande Mk II.

The Sumo Grande MK II is available in three variants - LX, EX, and GX. The car is truly value for money.

Powertrain & Performance

Under the lid it still looks like the Sumo Grande MK II, but its more refined power shows the difference. The Sumo Grande's engine has been borrowed from the Tata Safari. It comes with the same 2.2 litre VTT DICOR engine that churns out a healthy 120 bhp at 4000 rpm and a torque of 250 Nm at 3000rpm.

There is an option for torque with a wider RPMs band which can improve maneuverability in narrow city lanes and while cruising on highways. The engine is paired with a variable geometry turbocharger. The SUV comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox across all variants. For those who used Tata's vehicles will be surprised to find out that the gears move smoothly in harmony at the driver's will. The Sumo Grande MK II feels adequately empowered.

Build & Styling

The changed drive ratio in the Grande MK II gives a boost to low speed performance in city driving conditions. While a modified suspension ensures a comfortable ride, particularly for second and third row occupants, optimised anti-roll bars reduce body roll to a minimum during cornering. The existing low NVH levels have been further refined.

The Sumo Grande Mk II's styling is very contemporary. For once, designers at Tata Motors have worked very hard to get the vehicle's looks right. All the sharp edges of the Sumo have been tweaked into curves. The smooth flowing lines on the exterior give it an aura of sophistication. The front fascia still has the butch stance. The larger headlamps and a bulging bonnet paired with an oversized grille with the chrome Tata badge add an urban character to the vehicle. The front bumpers get a large air dam and two circular fog lamps placed on either corner. The oversized wheel arches house the 16-inch wheels. The square window glass and flat roof have been carried over from Sumo.

The Grande MK IIcomes with three row seating and even the third row seating has enough space for adults. There is more legroom and thigh space and the back gets a comfortable support to enjoy long drives without pain. The third row can be folded to make space for additional cargo. The interiors have been refreshed to give the vehicle a completely new, contemporary look with a two tone theme complemented by a new faux wood centre console and new fabric upholstery. The car comes upgraded with a modern HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and AC) with roof integrated louvers, motorised ORVMs, height adjustable driver's seat and a state of the art CD/MP3 music system. Some convenience features are power windows, rear seat arm rests, electrically adjustable rear view mirrors and remote keyless entry. The lighting has been improved by the provision of puddle lamps on the front door, follow-me-home lights, and the interiors get theatre style lighting. The rear window comes with a fog/rain water wiper to improve rear visibility. Moreover, there are several ergonomic improvements in the Grande MK II such as a smaller steering wheel with floating horns, a grab handle on the ‘C’ pillar to aid egress of third row passengers, and new inner door handles.

The Alpine music system with six speakers with a fake wood paneling comes standard on the top-end variant GX. The plastic moulded tilt power steering wheel, though lightweight, gives a strong grip. The GX gets leather wrapped steering.

Compared to the older Sumo, the Sumo Grande's extra height of 20 mm and longer wheelbase makes it more stable on highways. The leaf spring suspension in the rear enables a smooth ride. Independent double wishbone suspension and coil springs are placed to the front. This is useful for easy driving.

Safety features include central locking, side impact beams, door open warning, driver's seat belt unfastened warning, tiltable/collapsible steering column, tubeless tyres, child safety door locks, antiglare internal rearview mirror, high mount stop lamp, low fuel indicator warning, rear fog lamps, and motorized headlamp adjustment system.

The higher end EX and GX variants get central locking and an intelligent rotary lock mechanism that avoids locking of doors when the key is still in the ignition. Engine immobilizer and clear lens front fog lamps are exclusive to the GX variant. The seat fabric on all variants has been treated for resisting stains. The upholstery on the GX is fire resistant.

New cars from Ford

2010-03-08T18:40:00.000-08:00

Let us find you the best new car prices for new Ford models including:

Ford Focus

The new Ford Focus is available in a range of bodystyles including a three-door and five-door hatchback, four-door saloon and five-door estate. There is a selection of engine sizes to choose from including three diesel engines and one flexi-fuel engine.

Ford Fiesta

The new Ford Fiesta is available as a three-door or five-door hatchback with a selection of engine sizes including a choice of two diesel engines.

Ford Ka

The Ford Ka is available as a three-door hatchback (Design, Style, Collection, Luxury and SportKa series) and has a choice of two petrol engines – the 1.3 and 1.6 litre Duratec.

Ford StreetKa

The Ford StreetKa is a convertible roadster with a 1.6 litre Duratec engine.

Ford Mondeo

The Ford Mondeo is available in a range of bodystyles including the four-door saloon, five-door hatchback and five-door estate. It comes with a range of engine sizes including the choice of two diesel engines.

Ford Galaxy

The Ford Galaxy MPV is available as the Silver, LX, Zetec or Ghia series and has a choice of two petrol engines and the 1.9 litre Pumpe Duese Turbo Diesel engine.

Ford Ranger

The Ford Ranger is available as a Regular Cab, Double Cab and Super Cab and has a 2.5 litre Duratorq diesel engine.

Ford Fusion

The Ford Fusion is available as the 1, 2, 3 or + series and has a choice of two petrol engines and two diesel engines.

Ford S-Max

The Ford S-Max comes as a choice of three models – the LX, Zetec and Titanium.

BUYING GUIDE to New Mid-Size Cars

2010-02-25T23:00:00.000-08:00

Overview

The mid-size car has been the foundation of the American family for years and is commonly referred to as the "family sedan". In general, a mid-size car can seat four adults comfortably and carry their belongings in a comfortable manner, with some models having the ability to also carry cargo with the addition of fold-down rear seats.

Mid-size cars have always been the staple of the auto industry. As the most competitive car class for manufacturers, there are a wide variety of excellent mid-size cars for you to choose from.

Price Range: $14,743 - $36,775

Models

Standard Mid-size

The 2010 Honda Accord and 2010 Toyota Camry continue to be industry benchmarks in the mid-size car class. For 2010, the Honda Accord receives minor updates from last year's model with a starting price of $20,360 for the popular LX model. Its eye-catching appearance looks to stand the test of time. And measuring two inches longer, one inch taller, and featuring a wheelbase that’s been stretched an additional three inches, the EPA has now grouped the Accord into the "large" class. But it still drives like a Honda Accord. For 2010, the Camry, which was redesigned back in 2007, features only small trim updates and starts off at $18,950.

Also for 2010, Nissan's 2-door Altima Coupe continues to earn accolades for its sporty looks and competetive pricing. Nissan has managed to capture more of the performance oriented mid-size consumers by offering more horsepower than the majority of the competition. A hybrid version of the 2010 Nissan Altima is also available, and starts off at $25,070.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Galant gets a much anticipated new performance trim level, the Ralliart. As Mitsubishi's performance department, Ralliart has reworked the Galant to make the 3.8L engine produce 258hp and has tuned the suspension to allow for peak performance. At $26,999 the Mitsubishi Galant Ralliart is ready to thrill.

Other notable, fairly new mid-size cars are the 2010 Kia Optima, 2010 Hyundai Sonata, and the 2009 Motor Trend Car of the Year, the 2010 Ford Fusion. All are priced between $16,355 and $17,295 making them affordable to those on a budget. In 2008, the G6 stays mostly unchanged and the Optima receives minor interior improvements with a slightly better tuned engine.

Performance Mid-Size

Performance packed mid-size cars sport more aggressive youthful styling and cutting edge performance to add a little more attitude to the "family sedan" image. Cars like the Mazdaspeed Mazda6, with its 274hp turbocharged 2.3L V6 engine, supply just what the doctor ordered. Edmunds.com calls the Mazda6 a "stunningly capable blend of under-the-top styling and world-class performance in a surprisingly affordable package." The Dodge Charger RT satisfies even the heaviest of lead feet with 350 horsepower coming from a V8 Hemi engine and performance suspension to improve handling. When talking about the Charger’s performance USA Today said, "The Hemi's response to vigorous throttle application is sudden, sensual and satisfying. The Charger shoots into clean air and clear road in little more than a blink."

Hybrid Mid-Size

With oil prices hitting record highs, companies are scrambling to release mid-size hybrid vehicles. The 2010 Toyota Camry Hybrid (33/34 city/hwy), 2010 Nissan Altima Hybrid (35/33 city/hwy) and Saturn Aura Hybrid (24/32 city/hwy) are all currently available at prices ranging from $22,140 to $25,200. Interestingly, the popular Honda Accord Hybrid has been dropped for 2008. According to Honda (no pun intended), they have come to the conclusion that their hybrid system is more suited for smaller vehicles.

Mid-Size Wagons

If you are in the market for a mid-size car, you may also want to consider similar vehicles with more cargo capacity. Namely, mid-size wagons. This class of vehicle allows for the everyday utility of a mid-size car, but also has the capabilities to carry more cargo behind the 2nd row of seats.

Notable examples in the segment are the 2010 Mazda6 Wagon, 2010 Subaru Legacy Wagon, and the 2010 Subaru Outback Wagon. For those who seek a slightly more luxurious appointments, check out the 2010 Volkswagen Passat Wagon, and the 2010 Volvo V70 Wagon.

Mid-Size Car Safety Guide

Recent developments in automotive technology have made safety features as commonplace as the seatbelt. Such features include antilock brakes (ABS), side airbags, side curtain airbags and active head restraints. In some cases, advanced safety technology may only be available as costly options, if at all, so it's important to do your research if safety is important to you.

new car uk

Ford Dumps Mercury Brand

BMW Concept Gran Coupé

Beijing 2010: BMW Concept Gran Coupe

Ready For A-Z

New Tata Sumo Grande MK II

New Tata Sumo Grande MK II

Quick Take

Highlights

Pros

Cons

Overview

Powertrain & Performance

Build & Styling

New cars from Ford

Ford Focus

Ford Fiesta

Ford Ka

Ford StreetKa

Ford Mondeo

Ford Galaxy

Ford Ranger

Ford Fusion

Ford S-Max

BUYING GUIDE to New Mid-Size Cars