The Ultimate Driver’s Manual

In the Ultimate Driver’s Manual we’ve got all the practical info you need to know before starting your hunt for a car: Exclusive top tips from industry experts including Honest John, Car Throttle, Next Green Car, Click

Mechanic and many more! Tips and advice on everything from basic car maintenance to the different types of car insurance Car buying guides from family cars to sporty roadsters with what to look out for and factors to consider

before you make a purchase

Chapter 1: The Know-How

1.1 The Road Tax Breakdown

1.2 Motor Money: Car Finance & Insurance Explained

1.3 Car Maintenance 101: Practical Skills

1.4 Buying Your First Car

1.5 Test Drive Etiquette for Beginners

1.6 Auto-Tech: Essential In-Car Gadgets

1.7 The Rules of Upgrading: How to Sell Your Old Car

Chapter 2: The Buyer’s Guide

2.1 The Car About Town: City Hatchbacks

2.2 Homes On Wheels: First-Class Family Cars

2.3 Eco-Friendly Cars for the Green Revolution

2.4 Off-Road Adventures: The World’s Finest 4x4s

2.5 Performance and Luxury Cars: Going Grand on a Budget

2.6 Pre-Loved Perks: Why It Pays to Buy Used Cars

2.7 Accessible Driving: Motors for Mobility

1.1 The Road Tax Breakdown

What is road tax? Technically road tax doesn’t exist, the correct term is ‘car tax’ often referred to as ‘vehicle tax’ or its old name - Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). Car tax is calculated by taking into account the size of your car’s engine or its official CO2 emissions rating - depending on the date on which your car was first registered. Tax rates change every year, so keep an eye on the rates following the announcement of the annual financial budget. Cars registered before 1st March 2001 Due to lack of emissions data, tax on cars registered before the 1st of March 2001 is calculated based on engine size, with two different tax prices:

Engine Size 2014/15 Tax Rate (12 Months)

Equal or less than 1549 cc £145

Over 1549 cc £230

Cars registered on or after 1st March 2001 Cars registered on, or after the 1st of March 2001 are taxed based on their official CO2 emissions ratings. Each level of emissions are assigned a tax band which identifies its annual cost.

Tax Band CO2 emissions (g/km) 2014/15 Tax Rate (12 Months)

A Up to 100 £0

B 101-110 £20

C 111-120 £30

D 121-130 £110

E 131-140 £130

F 141-150 £145

G 151-165 £180

H 166-175 £205

I 176-185 £225

J 186-200 £265

K 201-225 £285

L 226-255 £485

M Over 255 £500

What do I need to know? Any UK registered vehicle which is parked or driven on public roads must be taxed by law. In order to discourage reckless drivers from driving uninsured vehicles, you cannot tax a vehicle without proof of valid car insurance. As of October 2014, traditional paper tax discs will become obsolete - meaning you no longer have to display one in your car. Tax checks will be carried out by a computerised system which cross references your vehicle’s registration with tax records. What if I’m not using my car? If your car is currently off the road or you plan on taking it off the road for storage, you’ll need to declare it - so as to avoid any tax penalties. In order to declare this, the vehicle’s registered keeper must apply for a SORN (or Statutory Off Road Notification). When applying for a SORN, your vehicle must be kept off public roads or land - meaning you’ll need to keep your car on your driveway or in a garage.

1.2 Motor Money: Car Finance & Insurance Explained

Car finance explained Financing is a great option for those in need of a new or used vehicle, but lacking the upfront cash. In basic terms, it works in similar ways to any other loan, money is borrowed from the lender and repaid over a set period of time - with interest.

Image source: William Warby

The different types of financing available There are numerous different types of car financing available - each with their own set of benefits and drawbacks, with some more suited to different types of buyers. The majority of car financing is either hire purchase or PCP, however there are other options available. Hire Purchase: This is the most straightforward type of financing. In most cases, buyers are required to commit to monthly payments until they have paid off the rest of the cost of the car - plus interest. Once all of the money has been paid back, the car is in your full ownership. However, until all repayments have been made, you cannot sell or make alterations to your car. PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) Finance: Buyers pay a small initial deposit, then pay an agreed monthly amount towards paying off the rest of the car’s cost. However, part of the car’s value is withheld - this amounts to the expected value of the car once the contract has ended, taking into account its depreciation of the car’s value. Once the contract is finished, the owner can either pay the lump sum to keep the car, hand it back to the dealership or sell it to fund the final payment. 0% Interest Finance: This is the only interest free financing option available, meaning you don’t pay any extra for your car. However, a large deposit (usually around 40%) is required, meaning this is only really a viable option for those with enough cash for a car. The repayment period is generally shorter than other forms of financing, meaning your monthly payments will be higher. Interest free financing is an attractive option if you’ve already got the cash but want to spread out spending it. 0% financing is generally only available from dealerships looking to push sales on particular models.

Car insurance explained Insurance is a must, not only for legal reasons, but for peace of mind - providing you with financial cover against damage, theft, bumps and more serious accidents. Although it can be expensive for some, it’s an essential part of car ownership that can’t and shouldn’t be avoided. Applying for insurance When looking for insurance, just like when looking for your next car, it’s important to shop around. Quotes and prices vary significantly between different insurance providers and comparison sites are a useful tool

for sifting out the cheapest options. When providing you with an insurance quote, insurers look at a number of factors which determine how much risk your car is exposed to. Factors such as age and driving experience are key to determining price, with younger drivers being more likely to have an accident than more experienced ones - meaning they pay a premium on their car insurance. When completing an insurance application form, you will be asked for other information such as your address, occupation, what you will use your car for and where it will be parked. All of this information along with the value, make and model of your car is used to calculate your insurance quote. It’s vital when completing an application that the information you submit is one hundred percent accurate - as false information could invalidate your insurance! The three types of car insurance Fully comprehensive: As suggested by the name, this is the most comprehensive insurance cover, providing you with full coverage, for any eventuality. Naturally, this is the most popular type of car insurance, meaning drivers can take to the roads in full knowledge that they are covered for just about anything. Third party: This is often the cheapest insurance option, giving you the legal minimum amount of cover needed to drive. It essentially means that if you damage someone else's vehicle or property while driving, your insurance will pay for any claims they may make. However, you will not receive any compensation or cover to repair or replace your own vehicle. Some drivers are often tempted by cheaper third party insurance, which have the disadvantage of being landed with hefty repair bills in the event of an accident. Third party plus fire and theft: Essentially the same as third party insurance, these policies also protect you against fire damage or theft of your vehicle, giving you additional peace of mind.

Image source: Alan Cleaver

Things to look out for when selecting your insurance Not all insurance policies are equal, don’t be tempted by something that seems too good to be true, as more often than not - it probably will be! Every time you make a claim on your car insurance, you will be charged an excess fee - this is to deter people from claiming for very small repairs etc. You will also notice that if you make a claim, you insurance premium will increase dramatically the following year. Look out for insurers who reward loyal customers and offer a no-claims bonus for safe drivers - allowing you to build up a discount on the cost of your annual insurance.

1.3 Car Maintenance 101: Practical Skills

Whether you’re new to car ownership or you’ve managed to leave your maintenance to the professionals throughout your driving life, there are a couple of essential tips worth knowing to keep your vehicle in tip top shape. Our handy “how to” guides make it easy to perform essential maintenance, without having to fork out the money for a mechanic. It’s time to roll your sleeves up and get stuck in - your bank balance will thank us later!

Featured Expert: Maintenance expert, Chris Longhurst from CarBibles.com has shared his words of wisdom when it comes to performing essential checks on your car. “The low-hanging fruit is very low-hanging. Change your oil and check your tyre pressures. Most new cars will prompt you when an oil change is due. If not, do it twice a year - about April and October - after the summer and winter driving times are over. Check your tyres once a week with a decent tyre gauge (i.e. not one on the petrol station air-line). Again, most new cars will tell you if the pressure is low and if it is, top them up but don't over-fill them. Top tip: Don't be surprised to see the tyre pressure warning light come on the first cold morning in autumn or winter. If your tyres were a bit low, the colder overnight temperatures could drop the pressure just enough to trip the warning light. Go and top them up.”

How to: Inflate your tyres Tyre pressure should be checked and corrected regularly, as tyres naturally lose pressure over time. When your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure, your car will not only handle better, properly inflated tyres will also improve fuel economy and safety on the road. Over or under inflated tyres can present a hazard on the road, impacting the level of grip your car has on the road or potentially even bursting at high speed. Attention: If your tyre pressure is constantly decreasing, it could be a sign of a slow puncture - you should take your car to a garage immediately and get the tyre in question repaired or replaced.

1. Always make sure your tyres are cold when you are checking their pressure or inflating them. This means no long journeys directly beforehand, as the heat caused by the friction of driving can give you a false tyre pressure reading.

2. Refer to your car’s manufacturer manual to identify the correct tyre pressure. Many modern cars also have this information repeated on the door sill or back of the fuel cap cover.

3. Remove the small dust caps by unscrewing them from your wheels, setting them aside in a safe place.

4. Use a pressure gauge (these are widely available from garages or DIY shops) to take a reading of your car’s tyre pressure by pressing and holding the nozzle against the inflation point on the tyre. Some garages also have air pumps which will tell you the pressure of your tyres, however these can give inaccurate readings. Your tyres should be at the pressure specified in your car’s manual for that particular model.

5. If any or all of your tyres are under inflated, you will need to correct this by inflating them to the correct pressure. You can do this by using the air pump at your local garage or by purchasing a foot pump specifically for inflating car tyres.

6. Holding the nozzle against the air inlet and inflate the tyres until the correct pressure is reached. Once this is done, double check it using your pressure gauge to ensure an accurate reading.

7. Replace the dust caps on your wheels and you’re done! How to: Check, top-up and change your oil We recommend checking the oil level in your engine regularly. Your car requires plenty of oil to keep things running smoothly and if you let it run low, it could lead to some very costly repairs! Luckily for you, checking and topping up your oil couldn't be easier.

1. Park your car on a flat and level surface, ensure your engine has been switched off at least 5-10 minutes prior to checking your oil - giving it time to settle down into the reservoir.

2. Open your bonnet and locate the oil dipstick, this should be easy to find in the engine bay. If you have difficulty finding it, check your car’s manual for a location diagram.

3. Pull the dipstick out of its hole - it will resemble a long thin piece of metal. Use a cloth or paper towel to wipe off all of the oil coating it.

4. Look closely at the dipstick, near the end of it you will see two markings indicating the minimum and maximum amount of oil for your engine.

5. Gently push the clean dipstick fully back into its hole, then remove it again. Look closely at where the oil level reaches up to, the oil level will be visible as a dark liquid on the end of the dipstick.

6. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum markings - if it’s towards the lower end of the scale, you should top up your oil.

Topping up your oil level is easy. Refer to your car’s manufacturer manual to identify the correct type of oil for your car. Once you have purchased the correct oil, simply remove the oil filler cap under the bonnet and use a funnel to add a small amount of oil to the engine. Do not overfill your car with oil as this could lead to leaks and damage. Instead, add a small amount at a time, then repeat the steps above to re-check the oil level - ensuring you allow 5 minutes for fresh oil to settle into the reservoir. Depending on how long it’s been since your last oil change, you may need to drain and completely replace your car’s oil. Different manufacturers recommend an oil change at varying intervals, depending on your annual mileage and the type of car you drive - check your car’s manual for further information. Although changing your oil is a slightly more complex process, it’s still well within the boundaries of money-saving home maintenance for most - check out this handy step-by-step guide to give it a go!

Image source: Chris F

What if I can’t fix the problem myself? Some repairs are beyond the help of “how to” guides, however that doesn't mean you should take your car to the first garage you come across. Unfortunately, some garages have developed poor reputations, taking advantage of people’s lack of car knowledge and charging over the odds for repairs. Our featured expert below shares some useful advice for finding the best mechanic.

Featured Expert: Ian Griffiths of WhoCanFixMyCar.com has shared some sound advice when it comes to hiring a professional. “Unfortunately, as a car ages, repairs are inevitable - be it replacing tyres, removing minor dents and scrapes or bigger jobs such as clutch or gearbox replacements. It’s tough enough to know where to get the car serviced, never mind bigger issues such as replacing the clutch. The same questions always arise: How do I know I’m not getting ripped off? Will the work be of a high quality? Will the garage use good quality parts? That’s where a service such as WhoCanFixMyCar.com proves invaluable. Simply post a job online and let the garages come back to you, comparing prices, convenience and importantly reviews from real customers. You wouldn’t buy your car insurance without comparing quotes so make sure you compare your maintenance quotes!”

1.4 Buying Your First Car

As a new driver, buying your first car can be an exciting time - and so it should be! However, there are lots of factors and paperwork which can seem alien to first time drivers. If you’ve never gone through the process of buying and owning a vehicle before, we’ve got some top tips so you can avoid any potential pitfalls and get yourself on the road as quickly as possible.

Featured Expert: Top auto journalist, John Slavin of HonestJohn.co.uk, shares his top tips for new drivers looking for their first car. "An important tip to remember is that cheapest isn't always best. Buying a £500 banger will probably cost you more in the long run in repairs and maintenance - so visit a dealer and spend a bit more. If things go wrong then you have some comeback with a dealer to get things mended - that isn't the case with a private sale. And as a young driver your most important consideration is insurance - get a quote from a comparison site for every car on your shortlist - there can be wild variation in quotes between very similar cars. And be honest when filling in the forms - if you tell a fib then your insurance probably won't be valid!"

The majority of first time buyers will be looking for a car on a budget and those of you who are lucky enough to have a big budget should probably still stick to sensible options. Insurance companies put a premium on new drivers and until you’ve held your license for a while and built up a no-claims discount, you could be facing a hefty insurance bill. In order to get around this - as a general rule; the cheaper the car, the cheaper the insurance.

Image source: Digo Souza

First car: What to look for? Cars come with lots of additional costs and once you factor in the insurance, tax, maintenance and fuel, it can soon add up to a considerable amount. Therefore it’s essential you identify your priorities. If you’re lacking the funds for running costs, then look for an economical car. Many of today’s small city cars fall below the 100g/km emissions tax band, meaning you won’t have to pay any car tax. As an added bonus, these vehicles are nearly always super fuel efficient - meaning more time between trips to the petrol pump. You’re unlikely to see these economy figures on older vehicles and as suggested by Honest John, you may be saving yourself money in the long run by purchasing a newer, more expensive car upfront. For a higher initial cost, you will benefit from low running expenses and repair bills.

Featured Expert: Young driver expert Ray from 2pass.co.uk shares some valuable advice for first time

drivers in the market to buy.

It’s your first car so don’t go crazy. The bigger the engine the more you’ll pay and the more modifications you have the greater the cost of your insurance premium. Once you have built up a couple of years of No Claims Bonus, then you can upgrade your car to something a little flashier with lower insurance costs. Decide how much you can afford to pay. Include the cost of insurance, MOT, road tax, petrol, repairs and servicing. Don't rush into a decision. Shop around. Look through price guides to see how much you should expect to pay for the car you want. Buying from a dealer is the safest way of buying as you get the maximum protection of the law. But there are dodgy dealers, so look for an established firm with a good reputation. Ask friends if they can recommend anyone.

1.5 Test Drive Etiquette for Beginners

When looking for a new or used car, it’s essential that you take it out for a spin before you make your mind up. Every car has its own unique handling and you’ll soon become accustomed to what you like and what you don’t. With this in mind, we’ve gathered up our top tips when it comes to taking a car out for a test spin. Test drive tips

Check you’re insured for the test drive, dealerships will insure their cars specially, but check you have third party cover if it’s a private sale

Ask the owner or dealership for a thorough test drive, at least 20 minutes in length Once you’re in the vehicle, make sure you can adjust the seating, mirrors and steering wheel to a

comfortable position Before setting off, familiarise yourself with all of the driver’s controls, ensuring you can comfortably

reach and operate them as required Test the vehicle on a variety of roads from slow residential streets to motorways - this should give

you a feel for how the vehicle handles and performs in a variety of situations Ensure that the vehicle has sufficient power to accelerate and overtake at motorway speeds

Image source: Land Rover MENA

Featured Expert: David Motton, road test editor for Good Motoring Magazine at MotoringAssist.com shares some top tips when it comes to arranging your test drive. "You need to make sure the test drive is long enough for you to decide if the car is right for you. A quick spin around the block isn't far enough. Ask for a test drive which takes in a variety of different roads, including the type of road you spend most time on. For example, if you regularly travel on the motorway, make sure you try the car on a dual-carriageway so you can assess its performance, noise levels and comfort at 70mph."

Test driving a used car When it comes to buying a used car, especially from a private dealer, there are further considerations you should take into account during your test drive. Used cars generally lack the guarantee of performance and unfortunately, some unscrupulous sellers may set out to deceive buyers by attempting to hide issues with the vehicle. Here’s some additional points to keep in mind when looking at a used vehicle:

Listen for any unusual rattling, vibrations or squeals coming from the engine or chassis during idling and whilst driving

During your test drive, ensure you take the car through all of the gears - the transition should be smooth and silent

When you start the car, the engine should start promptly - watch out for any smoke coming from the exhaust as this could be an indication of serious engine problems

Try accelerating whilst loosely gripping the steering wheel - some cars with braking issues will pull to one direction

If possible and only when it is safe to do so, try performing an emergency brake to check that the brakes are in full working order

Seek out areas with speed bumps during your test drive and listen for any unusual sounds coming from the suspension when you pass over them

Finally, before agreeing to a purchase - thoroughly inspect and test every part of the vehicle, including seat belts, doors, door handles, bonnet, boot, locks, mirrors, windows and any other moving part to ensure they are in working order

Hopefully, your test drive will make you feel right at home, helping you identify the right car for you. However, if you do have any concerns during your test drive, ensure you ask the dealer or seller for more information. If you’re not convinced by their answer then walk away - there are plenty more cars on the market.

1.6 Auto-Tech: Essential In-Car Gadgets

Once you’ve bought your car, you may wish to purchase additional gadgets and gizmos to enhance your driving experience. This is especially true if you’re buying an older car which lacks modern day technology or perhaps you’re saving on expensive options by kitting out the car yourself. Either way, there’s plenty of gadgets which can transform even the most basic of interiors into modern day technological marvels.

Featured Expert: Alex Kersten, editor of CarThrottle.com shares some gadget favourites when it comes to getting your car kitted out. 1. If you've got an older car (pre USB integration) I'd strongly recommend spending a few pounds on a 12V USB converter, which means you can plug your phone in to keep it charged - this simple device not only keeps your mobile charged, it also eliminates the need for a bulky and expensive sat-nav system (Google Maps is a free app, after all). 2. Again, one for older cars, would be a cassette player adapter, which allows you to play music (Phil Collins for true petrolheads) via your iPod/iPhone through the car's speakers. 3. Apps - for all types of owner, there is an app to suit his or her needs. If you want to fix your own car, for example, there is 'Car Mechanic' (Android), which gives you step-by-step instructions plus a list of required tools. 4. Dashcam - whether you're using it to track your progress on a race circuit or simply as a safety net when you're out and about (especially on the weekends when drivers lose the ability to function), a dash cam is a must.

In-car audio If you can’t live without your driving music, then in-car audio is a big selling point. Most new cars on the market today come with multiple connectivity options, allowing you to play music from your mp3 player, stream it wirelessly from your phone or even play it from a USB memory stick. Check the specification level of new cars by asking the dealer or by looking in the brochure - features like auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth connectivity and USB sockets will either come as standard or as an additional add-on at extra cost. If you play music from your smartphone, Bluetooth connectivity offers the ultimate in-car audio solution. It allows you to wirelessly connect your phone to play your music through the cars speaker system, with most models automatically syncing up, allowing you to make hands-free calls and even receive text messages straight to your dashboard display. However, if your budget doesn’t stretch far enough to accommodate such features, fear not - there are plenty of aftermarket gadgets which can be the answer to your audio needs. FM transmitters are a cheap workaround to play music through your car’s radio. Simply plug the transmitter into your mp3 player or phone’s headphone jack and you can broadcast your own mini-radio station. Find the transmitter by tuning the frequency on your radio and voila - you’ll have access to all of your music on-the-go. Top tip: If your car has a USB socket, don’t waste your money on buying a separate 12v car charger for your phone, use the USB lead which came with your phone to plug it into your dashboard - charging it as you drive.

Image source: Dru Kelly

Sat-Nav Sat-Nav systems remain one of the most popular aftermarket gadgets for drivers. They’re especially useful if you regularly travel to new destinations or you're just beginning to drive and are unfamiliar with local roads. Although Sat-Nav has been around for a long time, integrated systems are still somewhat rare, unless you are purchasing a luxury or top of the range vehicle. Fortunately, aftermarket external Sat-Navs are relatively cheap, work seamlessly and have their own advantages. Sat-Navs which are built into cars may outdate within their lifetime and render themselves obsolete, whereas their external counterparts can be replaced and upgraded. Many of the latest Sat-Nav systems include useful features such as lane information, speed camera warnings and local services listings. If you don’t want to fork out the cash for a standalone Sat-Nav system, many of today’s smartphones are capable of performing the same tasks. For simple navigation on-the-go, try using a free mapping service such as Google Maps or if you want the full experience with spoken directions - download a Sat-Nav application such as the TomTom mobile app for iOS. Simply select your destination and then secure your phone in place using a dashboard or windscreen mounted phone cradle.

1.7 The Rules of Upgrading: How to Sell Your Old Car

Just as you would expect when buying a car, you want a fair deal when you come to sell your old one. With so many part-exchange offers about, it’s hard to know whether selling or trading in your car is going to get you the best deal. Part-exchange deals Many dealerships will offer to take your old vehicle off your hands, essentially part-exchanging it for a newer car. This offers some key benefits in that you don’t have to organise getting your old car scrapped as they will complete all the necessary paperwork for you. It’s as simple as driving in with your old car and driving away with your new one. It also means that the value of your old car will be taken off the value of the new one, lowering the purchase costs. Don’t be put off if your dealership initially offers you very little for your old car, for the most part - this exchange is subject to bartering and you can usually get them to offer more if you refuse their first offer.

Featured Expert: Car detailing expert Richard Cooper from PolishedBliss.co.uk shares his top advice with us when it comes to preparing your car for resale. The bodywork should be clean and smooth to the touch. To achieve this, wash the car first and then use a tar remover followed by an iron dissolving gel to quickly and easily remove all forms of bonded contaminants. Once the bodywork is clean and smooth, use an all in one (i.e. one-step) polish and protectant to lightly cut the paint back and lay down a temporary coat of protection. This will make the paint look richer and glossier. Make sure the windows are crystal clear inside and out. The secret to achieving a smear-free finish is to use two lint-free towels; one to apply the cleaner and do the cleaning, and a second to gently buff the glass dry.

Selling privately Due to the ease of part-exchange deals, selling privately has lost its appeal to many drivers looking to upgrade. However it’s not without its benefits, the vast majority of private sales generate a higher return than part-exchange deals - meaning you’ll get more money for your old car. Just like selling a house, there’s plenty of things you can do to ensure you get the most money back for your old car, ensuring a quick and profitable sale. Most private buyers will want to see a full MOT and Service history, including any additional paperwork with the vehicle and proof of any recent repairs. Boost your car's resale value by ensuring you keep all of this information safe and up-to-date.

Image source: Mike K

Cleaning is top of the priority list if you want to impress prospective buyers. Investing a small amount of money on repairing any cosmetic damage and thoroughly cleaning your car inside and out can lead to much higher sales prices. Check out the advice from our featured bodywork repair experts below.

Featured Expert: ChipsAway.co.uk is the UK’s leading minor car body repair specialist, and they’re sharing their top tips on how to get the best possible price when selling your old car. When it comes to selling your car, you clearly want to achieve the best price you can for it. A spotless appearance will help with this and so we’ve put together a few simple ways to help you secure the highest return. The interior of the car is a great place to start; make sure the carpets and mats are vacuumed thoroughly to eliminate all traces of dirt and pet hair, clean all surfaces including the air vents to remove any dust which may have built up over time and polish the windows inside and out - making sure to leave them smear-free! An air-freshener also helps to create that appealing ‘new-car’ smell. Externally, obviously it is important to make sure the paintwork is ‘up to scratch’ and if you can, have any minor damage such as paintwork scratches and bumper scuffs, repaired. ChipsAway offer a convenient, mobile paintwork repair service at a very reasonable cost, which could therefore help you to achieve a far higher price for relatively little outlay. Washing, waxing and polishing your car will also help you achieve the best price, but make sure you use products specifically designed for this purpose. Alloy wheels are a particularly important area to focus on, as brake dust and grime can quickly build up and take the shine off your vehicle. Better still, it might be worth employing a professional valet/detailer who will have all the necessary equipment and skills to ensure a spotless and sparkling all-over finish!

2.1 The Car About Town: City Hatchbacks

Whether you need a car to tackle the morning traffic, or to nip to the shops – city living definitely requires a

specific type of vehicle. The general consensus is that smaller is better. With narrow streets, squeezing into

tight parking spots and bumper-to-bumper traffic part of the everyday city charm, your priorities when

buying a city car need to keep these factors in mind.

With that said, the small car market is perhaps the biggest in the UK, with super-minis like the popular Ford

Fiesta breaking sales records up and down the country. And down-sizing on your car doesn’t mean

sacrificing the fun. In fact, many of today’s super-minis are some of the best drives around - offering stylish

design, great handling and strong economy figures in one compact package.

Featured Expert: Andrew Jervis, co-founder of ClickMechanic.com, shares his recommendations when it comes to choosing a car for city life. With city populations growing and available space shrinking, choosing the right car to get around town can keep money in your pocket and help the environment. Therefore, for me, it has to be a small car every time – and if you’re looking for a sweet little runner and value for money, you'll be hard pushed to match what the Kia Picanto can offer. With being cheaper than most other major city cars but offering some sleek looks, great fuel economy and a 7 year warranty, I’m sure you won't be disappointed.

Easy parking

With parking at a premium in the city, it may be wise to opt for parking sensors as part of your vehicle’s

spec. The vast majority of new cars today offer reverse parking sensors as an additional option – if they’re

not already included on the standard model. The vast majority of systems use small radar detectors built

into the bumpers of your car which alert the driver through an audible “ping”, increasing in frequency as you

get too close to an object – be that another car, curb, bollard or wall.

High-spec vehicles may even be available with a reverse parking camera system. This uses a small

camera at the rear of the car which feeds directly to a screen on the car’s dashboard when the car is in

reverse. The camera is angled in such a way that the driver gets a wide angle view of their car’s rear

bumper, allowing them to avoid any bumps or scrapes when manoeuvring in tight spaces.

Image source: Michael Gil

Made for traffic

Most popular super-minis today come with super-efficient engine options – with the likes of the Ford Fiesta

and Vauxhall Corsa coming with a line-up of economical three-cylinder engines. If you spend a lot of your

time in slow moving traffic, avoid diesel engines as these need to run at high speeds regularly in order to

maintain efficiency. Petrol, hybrid and electric vehicles are far more efficient at low speeds and on short

journeys than their diesel counterparts, saving you money on your daily city commute.

If you’re buying new, look for a car with a start-stop system. These systems automatically cut-out the

engine when you come to stop and put your car in neutral as soon - as you put your foot on the clutch to

get back into gear, the engine will automatically re-start. Surely all that stopping and starting can’t be good

for your engine? Modern start-stop systems are specifically designed to efficiently stop and start the engine

whenever you come to a stand-still, without draining your cars battery or inflicting any additional wear to the

engines components. A start-stop system will save you serious Pounds at the petrol pump in the long-run,

especially if you spend most of your time in traffic jams or waiting at the lights.

Congestion charges

For London based commuters who need a car to get around, paying the Congestion Charge on a daily

basis can soon add up. There are, however, numerous workarounds for avoiding paying the toll on your

daily journey through Central London. Transport for London offer exemptions or discounts known as ULED

(Ultra Low Emissions Discount) for certain vehicle types. If you’re investing in a car in the Big Smoke, it

may be worthwhile exploring vehicles which are either exempt or offer a discount on the Congestion

Charge. For full details on escaping the expensive charge, check out the TFL website.

2.2 Homes on Wheels: First-Class Family Cars

Starting your own family can mean a big lifestyle change, in more ways than one! It can also mean it’s time

to trade in your favourite two-seater for something a little more practical.

Family considerations

Obviously your requirements will depend on the size of your family and the age of your children. However,

other factors to consider include usage habits, budget, boot space and any extra capacity you might need

for infrequent extra passengers. Five-door vehicles win hands down when it comes to kids - regardless of

whether or not your children are young enough to require a car seat, rear doors are a godsend when it

comes to getting in and out of the car with ease.

There’s a broad range of options when it comes to selecting a family car, with numerous types of vehicles

being marketed towards the family market. Hatchbacks, MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles), crossovers and

estates all have their own set of benefits. The choice comes down to your requirements and personal

preferences.

Image source: Toyota Motor Europe

Size matters

Mid-size hatchbacks like the VW Golf and Ford Focus offer an ideal compromise between space and

economy. They’re small enough to drive easily and they’re economical, but they also offer plenty of space

for a family of 4 to travel in comfort - with plenty of room for luggage in the boot.

If you’ve got a family of 5 or more, a larger MPV, crossover or estate car may be more suitable for your

needs. Many of the MPVs and crossovers on the market today offer up to 7 seats, including the funky

Citroen Grand Picasso and elegant Ford Grand C-Max offer plenty of interior space without sacrificing style

- keeping both the driver and the kids happy.

Featured Expert: Becky Goddard-Hill of Family-Budgeting.co.uk shares her expert insights when it comes to finding a practical family car on a budget. When investing in a car, it is important to emphasise practicality, particularly if you are on a budget. Substance over style is important, so it needs to be worth every penny. You also need to think about what is most important to you. Do you really need built in DVD players and a massive boot if you only have one child who already has a portable tablet? Don't be swayed by extras and don't get too fixed on colour or models...keep an open mind - that’s how you get the best bargain.

Keeping costs down

Family life can get expensive and, with that in mind, it’s important that your choice of car keeps within

budget when it comes to running costs. Diesel engines generally offer better economy figures, especially

on longer journeys. It may also be worth researching which of your top choices are the most reliable and

have the lowest maintenance costs. Check out Cap.co.uk to calculate the expected running costs for your

next vehicle. Make sure you budget for your car finance payments, fuel, tax, insurance and leave room to

spare for any other unexpected bills.

2.3 Eco-Friendly Cars for the Green Revolution

If you’re looking for a new car but want to be sure that it’s eco-friendly, that’s no problem. By going green,

you can find the car that’s right for you without sacrificing your environmental concerns.

Cost-effectiveness

Eco-friendly vehicles are an excellent investment. While electric cars in particular may be more expensive

to buy up-front, they are infinitely cheaper to run – meaning the long-term economic benefits are great

indeed.

Lower emissions

In addition to saving you money on running costs, electric and hybrid cars also help you do your part to

save the environment. CO2 emissions are much lower for eco-friendly vehicles, with the sweet spot falling

below 100g/km of CO2 – meaning you’ll even be exempt from road tax. Super-efficient vehicles which emit

75g/km of CO2 or less are also free of London’s expensive daily Congestion Charge.

Image source: The Rabbit

Featured Expert: Paul Clarke, editor of GreenCarGuide.co.uk shares his top tips for environmentally conscious buyers looking for a green-machine. If you’re looking for a more economical car, there’s never been a better time, as there are lots of choices. However, it can also be confusing: do you choose petrol, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, range-extender, or pure electric vehicle? The answer to the common question of ‘which is the best green car?’ depends on your driving:

If you only do short journeys and want a cheap car, then a petrol car with, for instance, a small three-cylinder engine is likely to be cost effective overall.

If you spend most of your time driving high motorway mileages, then an efficient diesel will probably give you the best economy.

If your driving is split in and out of urban areas, then a hybrid may be ideal.

If your regular commute is within the electric range of a plug-in hybrid or an extended-range electric vehicle (possibly 15-80 miles between recharges depending on the model) and you also want to drive further at weekends, then these technologies would be perfect.

If most of your driving is within the range of a pure electric vehicle, i.e. 80-100 miles in most cases, then such a choice could really slash your running costs – and would result in zero tailpipe emissions.

For more information, check out The Green Car Guide’s handy online videos.

If you’re still not sure which eco-friendly machine is the car for you, here’s some more information that

might help to tip the scales.

Going electric

No exhaust or noxious fumes

Much quieter than cars with internal combustion engines

Regenerative braking means the car is charged when you brake

Cheap to charge with charging stations widely accessible in urban areas

Many electric cars have superior acceleration performance to conventional vehicles

Going hybrid

Some hybrids use an internal combustion engine to generate electricity and recharge

Consumes less fuel than conventional vehicles and causes less air pollution

Hybrid engines are much smaller, lighter and more efficient than in conventional vehicles

Featured Expert: Peter Thomas, Content Manager of NextGreenCar.com shares a handy online resource when it comes to finding the greenest car on the market. "Take a look at Next Green Car's ‘Green Car Rating’ on our site to assess your vehicle's environmental impact. Each car is given a score ranging from 0 for the greenest cars, to 100+ for the most polluting. The Green Car Rating not only assesses a vehicle's environmental impact over its whole life cycle – including vehicle use, fuel production and vehicle manufacture - but also incorporates all the different vehicle emissions, not just tail-pipe CO2. This means that consumers can make a realistic comparison between different vehicle types from traditional diesel and petrol cars to the more recent technologies such as hybrid and electric vehicles. Next Green Car also has many easy to use tools which can be used to search for and compare vehicles by MPG, Car Tax, Emissions and more."

2.4 Off-Road Adventures: The World’s Finest 4x4s

There are two types of 4x4 owners – those who genuinely require the off-road capabilities and those who

just prefer them for their looks, space and driving characteristics. 4x4s are generally considered an

expensive investment, and running costs are rarely cheap – so it’s important to nail down your needs

before making a decision.

Carefully assess your off-road requirements

If you do a lot of driving off-road or regularly tow caravans, horseboxes or trailers, then a full-blown 4x4 is a

justifiable expense. However, if you’re buying a 4x4 for its look and feel over any actual need to drive off-

road, you’re likely to end up incurring unnecessary expenses. We’ve broken things down into two sections,

depending on what kind of driving you do and the reasoning behind your 4x4 needs.

The true 4x4 off roader

Image source: Land Rover Our Planet

If you’re after true off-road capabilities, there are a number of specific factors to consider when making a

decision on which make or model to go with:

Many of the best off-roaders come with a low-range gear box, allowing you to slow down the wheels

when tackling tricky off-road situations.

The vast majority of true 4x4s are fitted with diesel engines for UK markets. This is primarily due to

the high cost of fuel and strict emissions ratings in the UK. However, there are also additional

benefits to diesels when it comes to off-roading. Their higher torque output makes them ideal for

towing and powering up steep inclines. 4x4s are generally much larger and heavier than their road-

going counterparts and therefore much less fuel efficient. An economical diesel engine will also

reduce running costs on longer or rural journeys.

Ensure you budget for the increased running costs of a 4x4. With off-road capabilities comes

complex transmissions, gearing and suspension systems. Servicing and repairs can be a great deal

more expensive than that of a regular car. Check out Cap.co.uk to get an estimate of your next

4x4’s running costs before you commit to a purchase.

Unsurprisingly, Land Rover have perfected the off-road formula, with the indestructible Land Rover

Defender and comfortable yet capable Land Rover Discovery taking the title as two of the best true off-

roaders money can buy. And if luxury is top of your list, you can’t beat the Range Rover – both the original,

Sport and Evoque editions offer unparalleled comfort and quality, while maintaining competency both on

and off-road.

The suburban SUV

Image source: gpeuropa.net

Featured Expert: The car scrapping, recycling and all around motoring experts at MotorWise.com share the benefits of the crossover. The rise of the 'soft roader' such as the Audi Q3 has increased the accessibility of off-road adventure cars by combining the everyday features of normal road driving with the capabilities of a four wheel drive.

Manufacturers have cottoned on to the fact that many people are drawn in by the appeal of a 4x4, but don’t

actually need the off-road capabilities of a true 4-wheel-drive. 4x4s today are no longer the utilitarian bare-

bones vehicles they used to be. Today, the vast majority of 4x4s on the market are both stylish and

comfortable and it’s this which is responsible for the increase in demand. In recent years, there have been

a number of SUVs and crossover vehicles like the Nissan Juke (pictured) which offer the looks and space

of a 4x4, but without the expensive running costs.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that an SUV or crossover is just a sheep in wolf’s clothing – these vehicles

genuinely do have some off-road capabilities. Many SUVs and crossovers are available with a standard 4-

wheel-drive system, which is plenty to keep you out of trouble on rougher surfaces or in wintery conditions

– however, they don’t have all the unnecessary add-ons only required in extreme off-road situations.

2.5 Performance and Luxury Cars: Going Grand on a Budget

If you’re lucky enough to be in the market for a luxury or performance car, whether it’s an executive saloon

or a sporty coupe, there are certain considerations which apply specifically to buying this type of vehicle.

The UK and much of Europe’s executive car market is dominated by ‘the big three’, consisting of legendary

German automakers Mercedes, BMW and Audi. It’s not without reason that these three industry giants

dominate the market, with the German auto market renowned for its quality engineering, elegant design

and cutting edge innovations. However, there are also major players in the game, with Range Rover and

Jaguars refreshed line-up offering bags of style and a little more personality than their German badged

rivals.

Compact executives

There has been a recent increase in demand for compact executive cars, offering the same levels of luxury,

refinement and performance as their larger counterparts – but in a smaller, often two-door package. This

compromise offers drivers a more practical car that’s easier to drive, park and manoeuvre. Compact

executives are also cheaper and more efficient in general – making them an ideal choice if you’re already

at the top end of your budget.

Here’s our pick of the top 3 compact execs on the market today:

Mercedes C-Class Saloon – With prices starting well below £30k, the C-Class offers some of the

best value for money on the market when it comes to luxury per pound. Highlights include its

unparalleled plush interior and a range of super-frugal diesel engines, sure to keep running costs to

a minimum.

Jaguar XF Saloon – If style is high on your priority list, the Jaguar is the exec to go for. Its stunning

design combined with sporty handling make the XF ideal for those who want the looks and

performance of a sports car in a more practical package.

BMW 3 Series Saloon – The legendary three series is one of the strongest all-rounders in its

category. With a huge range of trim levels, specifications and engines, there really is something for

everyone with a wide range of price points. Basic entry level models are sub £25k - making the 3

series one of the most popular compact execs on the market.

With high quality cars come high quality parts, meaning that servicing and repairs are generally much more

expensive. Make sure you factor additional running costs into your overall budget before committing to

what could potentially be a major financial drain.

Image source: Ben

Featured Expert: We asked the motoring experts at CarThrottle.com what their top picks would be on a sub £50k budget. Car Throttle editor, Alex Kersten, shares his favourite performance and luxury cars on a budget. Performance cars up to £50k There are two cars that stand out. First is the Nissan GT-R, a vehicle that's widely regarded as the best value-for-money supercar currently on sale. Prices for a new 2014 GT-R start from around £78,000 and for that you get 542bhp, 0-62mph in 3.0sec (quicker than a £200,000 Ferrari 458) and a top speed of 196mph. Buy used (2009) and you can pick up a second-hand GT-R for around £37,000. It's slightly down on power (478bhp vs 542bhp), but still astonishingly fast - 0-62mph takes 3.5sec and it's good for 193mph. Thanks to AWD, the GT-R handles impeccably and flatters any driver into looking like a professional racer. The second performance car which represents great value is the Porsche Cayman. It's arguably the best model in the entire Porsche range thanks to its 911-rivalling dynamics, mid-engined layout and responsive engines. The best of the bunch is the new GTS model which, while costing £55k, is the closest you'll get to driving perfection. Thanks to a 3.4-litre naturally-aspirated six-cylinder engine with 336bhp, you'll see 177mph after launching to 62mph in just 4.6 seconds. With a budget of £12-14k, you bag yourself a 2005 Cayman 3.4 S with 295bhp and a top speed of 171mph; there aren't many other cars in this price range that offer the same levels of performance, comfort and kudos. Luxury cars up to £50k Mercedes-Benz is, and probably always will be a pioneer in the luxury car market. The S-class is a car that's synonymous with cutting-edge technology and incredible refinement, a slice of which can be purchased on the used car market for as little as £3000. A 2003 S350, for example, offers a smooth and relaxing ride, plus creature comforts such as heated seats, Bluetooth, sat-nav and cruise control. A 2002-2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is another way to cruise in comfort and can be bought for around £3000 also. For the last word in class and comfort, Jaguar's latest XJ is worth mentioning. Prices for a 2011 3.0D V6 start from £25k, which represents favourable depreciation from for savvy buyers. Expect the finest leather, the latest gadgets and reasonable running costs, not to mention the ability to waft like A-list celebrities.

High performance cars

Whether you’re looking for a second car to use at the weekends, or your lifestyle allows you to use a two-

seater as your primary mode of transport, no one can deny the exhilaration that being behind the wheel of a

performance car can bring.

If you’re in the market for a sports or even super-car, practicality should be fairly low down on your list.

There are plenty of great hot hatches and powerful saloons which can offer up a great compromise if you

can’t quite fit your life into the passenger seat of a Porsche.

If you’re one of the lucky few to have the funds and lifestyle suited to driving in its rawest form, we’ve got

some top tips to consider when starting your sports car search.

Although the appeal of a convertible may be strong, beware that convertibles are often fraught with

mechanical issues surrounding their mechanism – which can be expensive to repair. Convertibles

also suffer from reduced boot space which the roof occupies when down, further reducing already

premium storage space. Convertibles also suffer from increased road noise, lowering refinement

levels in the cabin.

Although there are a few exceptions to the rule, for the most part, performance cars are

uneconomical and expensive to run – MPG and tax rates could vastly impact your decision when

comparing vehicles.

High performance cars are only suitable for competent drivers. Their precision steering, stronger

acceleration and braking power can take some getting used to and can be dangerous in

inexperienced hands. If you’re adamant about going for a powerful model, it may be worth brushing

up on your driving skills beforehand.

The majority of low to mid-price range sports cars follow a front engine, rear-wheel-drive format as

opposed to the most common front-wheel-drive setup seen on the majority of cars in the UK. This

gives sports cars entirely different handling characteristics – and although not always the case, it

often reduces the practicality of the car. With so little weight over the powered rear wheels, cars with

this set-up can be very difficult to drive in icy or snowy conditions – making them a summertime only

affair.

2.6 Pre-Loved Perks: Why It Pays to Buy Used Cars

If your budget’s tight – a used car is the way to go. With cars suffering from rapid depreciation, there are

major savings to be had on used cars of all ages. However, buying a used car comes with its own

difficulties. Our fool proof guide will keep you out of trouble and ensure you find not only a good deal but

also a reliable set of used wheels.

Featured Expert: Used car expert, Vlad Samarin of Samarins.com shares some wisdom with us when it comes to looking for a reliable used car. Do some research on reliability and fuel economy of the car model you want to buy. It takes 20-30 minutes to Google gas mileage, reliability ratings and common problems, but you can save thousands. Your best bet is a 3-5 year-old used car with all the regular maintenance records and good reliability reputation. In the long-term, it's worth paying a little more for a well-maintained vehicle in good mechanical condition. Test drive more cars to compare. If you want a used Toyota Corolla, test drive three of them and you will immediately know which one’s better. Have the car you picked inspected by a car-savvy friend or a mechanic. For more useful advice when hunting for a second-hand vehicle, check out Samarins.com.

Taking advantage of depreciation

The moment a car drives off the showroom forecourt, or is even registered for the first time, it can suffer

from an instant decline in value. In the automotive industry, a premium is put on ‘newness’, meaning you

can stand to make big savings when buying used – even if the car only has a few thousand miles on the

clock.

If you still want something with that new-car smell, pre-registered cars offer a great solution to price

problems. Dealerships will often pre-register cars in order to clear stock quickly. Technically speaking, this

means that the car in question is no longer new – despite having been driven rarely, if ever. Often, this will

result in a discount of £1000 or more off the list price.

Depreciation rates vary wildly between manufacturers and models, with some cars holding their value

better than others. On average, a three year old car in the UK will lose between 50 and 75% of its original

price, despite still being relatively new – with many cars remaining fully operation beyond 10 years of age.

As a general rule, the stronger the demand for a car, the more value it’s going to retain with age. Therefore,

the best bargains are often found on surplus used vehicles, where supply of that particular model exceeds

the level of demand.

Another tact is to look for less popular brands – many of these manufacturers get snubbed because of their

lack of curb appeal, but still produce excellent cars. There’s a steady stream of used cars out there, making

the second-hand game a buyers’ market – this means you’ve got plenty of buyer power to shop around for

the best price.

Image source: Brian Marks

Shop safe

One major disadvantage when it comes to buying second-hand, especially in a private sale, is the lack of

reassurance offered from a reputable dealership. Second-hand cars rarely come with a warranty or any

protection against getting a bad deal. Therefore it’s important you brush up on your knowledge and ask the

right questions when looking at a used car. We’ve made a handy list of top tips to consider when buying

second-hand.

Once you’ve identified the model of car you’re after, search online for any common faults or

problems unique to that make or model. This information is readily available and a quick search will

highlight any areas to pay special attention to when you arrange your viewing and test drive.

If you’re thinking about buying a vehicle you’ve seen, it’s worth paying for a vehicle check

beforehand. Simply enter the vehicle’s registration into one of the many online vehicle background

checking services to find out if the seller is being truthful about the vehicle’s history. This data will

confirm that the make, model and colour matches the current registration. It will also tell you if the

car has been reported stolen, written off or has an outstanding loan on it.

Businesses like the RAC offer a service whereby one of their trained mechanics will come along and

inspect the vehicle with you – giving you full reassurance that the car you’re buying is mechanically

sound and safe to drive. Although this service isn’t cheap, it could potentially save you thousands if

you purchase a problematic car with warranty protection.

For further guidance and a list of other essential checks to make before buying a used car, check out the

official Government guidelines.

2.7 Accessible Driving: Motors for Mobility

For many people, a car is a vital necessity for getting around. An accessible vehicle is the ideal solution to

maintaining your independence if you suffer from an injury, ailment or disability which affects your mobility.

With a wide range of vehicles fully adapted or customised to suit specific needs, there’s a lot of choice of

options when it comes to buying an accessible car. Most accessible vehicles, both new and used, are also

available on finance, increasing their affordability.

Image source: Stephen Jones

WAVs

Wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) are cars that have been specifically adapted to provide easy and

accessible transportation for drivers or passengers with extra mobility requirements. Although there are a

wide range of adaptations available, the majority of WAVs are based on multi-purpose vehicles due to their

lower flooring and high roof line – allowing drivers and passengers in wheelchairs to travel in comfort.

If you’re buying an accessible vehicle to drive, there are many forms of adaptation which can make driving

easier. These include hand controls, height adjustable seats and driving aids. Alternatively, if you’re buying

a vehicle to transport a passenger with restricted mobility, numerous vehicles are available with lowered

floors, access ramps and even hydraulic lifts – making transferring into the vehicle easier.

Vehicle adaptations aren’t just limited to those with a disability – elderly drivers or those with minor mobility

issues can also benefit from their features.

The Fiat Doblo and Renault Kangoo are two of the most popular adapted vehicles on the market, due to

their massive interior space despite having a relatively small footprint. Their high roof and large rear doors

make them ideal for kitting out with a ramp or hydraulic lift, allowing passengers in wheelchairs to sit

comfortably with plenty of headroom. Their chassis, however, is based on that of a smaller car, giving them

driving and handling characteristics most drivers are familiar with – so you won’t feel like you’re driving or

parking a van.

Featured Expert: David Motton of StillSafeToDrive.org.uk shares his words of wisdom when it comes to finding a car to suit your needs. Make sure any car you buy suits your needs as well as your physical abilities and limitations. Can you get in and out easily? Is the driving position comfortable? Does the car have good all-round visibility? Light steering can make parking easier if you're not as strong as you used to be, and some cars now come with parking aids which actually turn the wheel for you - all the driver has to do is control the accelerator and brake.

Key considerations

There are some key factors, specific to accessible cars, to keep in mind when starting your search:

Practicality should be your primary concern – you have to live with the vehicle on a day to day

basis, so thoroughly assess your needs and look for a vehicle that ticks all the boxes

Vehicles with ramp access often come with the option of a ramp at the rear or side of the car. Keep

in mind that there may not be enough room for a side access ramp when parking, even in disabled

parking spots. It may be worth investing in a sticker for your car, informing other motorists to leave

enough space for access.

If you suffer from mobility issues and are buying a car to drive, it may be worth investigating

automatic vehicles with hand controls. These vehicles use paddles behind the steering wheel to

replace the accelerator and brake pedals.

It’s a legal requirement that WAVs have sufficient safety equipment to secure a wheelchair within

the vehicle. This normally includes straps or hooks to keep the wheelchair in place, and a specially

adapted seatbelt to secure the passenger in the wheelchair. When viewing a vehicle, ensure that

these safety straps fit your wheelchair and that the seatbelts are both comfortable and secure.

If you are able to transfer from your wheelchair, or are still able to get into a normal passenger seat,

there are many cars on the market with height adjustable seats. 2 door cars also have larger doors,

leaving you with more room to get in and out of the front seat.

We hope you’ve found The Ultimate Driver’s Manual useful. Don’t forget to check out our blog for more car reviews, news and

drivers tips. | The Car Loan Warehouse ©