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This article sets out to discuss the main differences between the MINI Paceman and the MINI Countryman, highlighting key features such as style, inside and drive.
What makes the BMW X1 Diesel Estate right for your business?
Business car users have a wide and wonderful choice when it comes to their new cars; from the frugal to the fast, and everything in between. Leasing a car means you get to change it probably much more regularly than you would as a private owner; taking that new choice sometimes even more regularly than once a year. Here are four exciting new car choices for business drivers.
All the necessary checks and servicing you need to do to get the car ready for warmer weather
As well as being a favourite possession, cars are also a large expense. Fuel, insurance, servicing – it all adds up, especially when things go wrong. In this guide, we'll be looking at ways for you to keep your motor running smoothly for less.
One of the very first things that potential auction buyers of used and nearly new cars do is to check that prospective vehicle’s service history. So it is crucial that if you are considering selling your car through an auction – which can help it attract an even better price – that you offer as much of its history as possible.
Yamaha are one of the most well known and highly regarded motorcycle manufacturers in the world. The Japanese brand has been building road and racing machines for many years now and can count road going performance icons and hundreds of race wins amongst their great many achievements. Here are three of their current great bikes.
Are there any purchases in life that are more exciting than buying a new car? Picturing yourself behind the wheel of different vehicles is something we all do when searching for our next motor – and it can be great fun checking out the latest models.
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is a new addition to the 3 Series range of cars that’s been in dealers for a few months now, and it’s like no other 3 Series we’ve seen before. Proof that, even after all these years, there is more and more to come from the evergreen 3 Series; all it needs is a flick of the designer’s pen here and there and a whole new stylish model is born. The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is the bigger 3 Series, with touring on the mind.
BMW, the famous German car manufacturer, offer a wide and comprehensive range of diesel models to choose from, as well as some of the very latest and most efficient turbo-diesel engine technology of any mainstream manufacturer out there. It’s no mean feat, but through years of design and engineering experience, BMW has managed to make their diesel-powered cars both high performance and fun to drive, and more miserly than most when it comes to pricy diesel fuel. That’s a win, win combination alright.
The little C1 has been a big sales success for Citroen since its launch several years ago. Its combination of nippy small size, cheeky styling and frugal fuel consumption has made it a hit with buyers all over the world, and a great deal in the UK. And here’s why.
Scotland is a great place to go driving, with plenty of room to stretch your motoring legs, some simply stunning roads and some blissful scenery in which to unwind once you’ve had your driving fun. Few places can claim such empty and enticing roads and if you’ve got the urge to really go for a drive, there are few places that can beat Scotland. Here are two inspirational routes.
The Audi A6 executive saloon can quite easily be overlooked by many people as a potential used car purchase, as considering its high price when new, many average buyers would expect it to be likely too expensive to be within their price range. But, you might just be surprised as to how much Audi you can get for your money.
The Nissan Qashqai singlehandedly redefined how we perceive the family car when it was launched and has gone on to sell very well indeed. Look around the streets near you and you will see many a family enjoying many a Nissan Qashqai. There are plenty of reasons for this wide ranging sales success and here are just a few of them.
How much is riding on your tyres?
It’s a tough life here at TotallyMotor with this poor old editor expected to travel around and test drive cars all the time. Motorways are my friend – or enemy, depending on the traffic – and motorway service station sandwiches are my stodgy sustenance. Still, hopefully at the end of all these mindless motorways and mundane munching is something hot, sexy and metal.
Fleet managers are spoilt for choice right now, with a great range of the latest energy efficient cars constantly refreshing, on the market. Not only great efficiency from diesel cars – which we’ve come to expect – but a new wave of super-efficient petrol-powered cars that are nearly catching up with their frugal diesel cousins. Here are some highlights.
Motorcycling is enjoying growing popularity at the moment, driven by the rocketing price of petrol and cost of car insurance. The man and woman in the street are looking for practical and reliable frugality to get them to work, plus a bit of fun at the weekend. This cheeky new Honda MSX125 could fit that bill.
Here we focus on the best-selling Honda CBF125; a bike that anyone can ride in and out of town easily on a daily commute and with far less fuel costs than in a car. And, of course, the small and nippy little CBF can be parked almost anywhere in our busy city streets, and is very simple and cheap to maintain.
The new 208 GTI is the first proper hot hatch that we’ve seen from the brand for sometime. It’s true that in the depths of the economic crisis, most mainstream automotive manufacturers did ere on the side of caution with their new car designs, but, to be frank, the Peugeots of late have been downright boring. Well, the 200bhp 208 GTI that arrives on driveways this May looks to set this yawn-worthy record straight.
Kawasaki motorcycles has a long and rich racing history, both on and off-road, and have taken probably more than their fair share of race victories over the years considering their relatively small company size, especially when compared to the mighty Honda. Here’s our pick of three current Kawasaki sports stars.
First things first; we must give the Ford Focus its due credit. Last year, it became the world’s top-selling car of the year, outstripping the long time number one: the Toyota Corolla. With nearly 750,000 sales around the world – 83,000 of which took place in the UK – in 2012, the Ford Focus must be doing something right.
The newer the car, the more likely it is that it will have been designed to be more eco-friendly than the older cars out there, and many new car buyers want something greener. A personal contract purchase allows you to change your new car much more regularly, so you can keep up with the latest green developments, and save money on fuel.
The BMW automotive brand has long been associated with the luxurious end of the market, and since the launch of their smallest model – 1 Series – you don’t even need to drive the biggest of the BMWs to enjoy that legendary luxury. Big or small, if you pay the premium, any BMW model can be deluxe. Here are some of the finest.
BMW’s purchase and relaunch of the MINI brand is probably the greatest success of the modern automotive era. The clever marketers at BMW took a neat, fresh and funky product and aimed it perfectly at a market they knew was there, and the best-selling new MINI was born. Here’s our guide to the quirkiest of them all, the Clubman.
Celebrities – whether they are a footballer, actor, singer or model – are typically able to access the finer things in life. This is definitely the case when it comes to cars, and here's a look at some of the high-end models that the stars have recently been spotted driving.
Those that are new to motorcycling might well want to consider going naked. Now, we’re not suggesting you take to the streets wearing nothing but a helmet and a smile, but we are suggesting you take a look at an all-round exciting naked motorcycle that’s fast, frugal and fun. Kawasaki’s ER-6n is a perfect example of a tasty naked.
There’s no doubt that new drivers pay a high premium – and we don’t just mean car insurance – to enjoy the UK’s roads. Some of us desperately need our cars to get to work or look after relatives, and especially as the snow falls, we can all see the value of owning our own cars. Sure, it’s not cheap, but here are some tips to trim the cost.
Whether you ride your motorbike every day on your commute to and from the office or just enjoying taking leisurely road trips at the weekend, it's important to keep on top of maintaining your vehicle. Failing to ensure your bike stays in top shape will not just compromise its performance, but it could also increase the chances of you having an accident.
Whether you're planning on getting a supersport bike for the first time or have ridden them for several years and fancy buying a new model, Honda is one brand of motorcycle you should consider purchasing. For years, the Japanese company has been at the forefront of the motorcycle sector and has produced a wide range of fantastic supersport models.
For most families, it's impractical to have separate cars for work and family life, so what you need is a vehicle that can cater to both. One motor that does this well is the BMW 5 Series Diesel Touring Model, as it's practical and boasts innovative features.
Although 2013 is still in its infancy, it certainly looks set to be a great year for sports car enthusiasts. With many of the world's leading prestigious automobile brands set to release several exciting models over the next 12 months, there will be plenty of options for you to choose from if you are looking to treat yourself to a new set of wheels.
Even for experienced motorists, driving in the winter can be a difficult and sometimes stressful task. Different conditions pose different hazards, so it is important to be well prepared before setting off; read our guide for useful tips on winter driving.
Buying a used car can be an excellent way to get a set of wheels for less money than a new vehicle costs, but there are some things you need to be aware of when you start shopping in the second-hand market. Here are some tips to help you with your search.
Everyone knows a MINI when they see one – but just how has the compact car become one of the icons of the British motoring industry, selling by the truckload all over the world? We explore the history of this much-loved brand and why the car is so covetable.
With the winter months meaning it stays darker for longer and there is a substantial risk of the roads being covered with ice and snow, it's imperative that motorists are extra-careful and ensure they stay safe. While this is something that obviously applies to all car owners, it is perhaps even more pressing for those who have luxury vehicles.
Citroen has been at the forefront of the global automotive industry for almost a century and in that time it has produced thousands of cars that have met the needs of drivers spanning a range of interests and budgets. While you can be confident of finding a Citroen car right for you, no matter what your current requirements may be, it's important to spend a little time researching what options are available to you.
There are several ways to sell your car, and the one you choose will depend on how much effort you want to put into the sale yourself, as well as the extent of your desire to get the best price possible. Read on if you need some help deciding on a particular channel for selling your motor.
There are many reasons why businesses need to pay attention to how green their fleet of vehicles is. If you want to improve the eco-friendly credentials of your company cars, but aren't sure where to begin, read our tips on how to green a fleet.
Whether you provide your employees with a company car thorough a contract hire deal or your workers use their own vehicles to travel for their jobs, it's worth looking into ways you can make them better drivers and reduce their fuel usage at the same time.
Professional footballers not only get to play the sport they love as their full-time jobs, but also tend to be paid very handsomely for doing so. It's not uncommon for the average player in the top flight to earn £20,000 a week (although some make five times this amount and even more), so it should be no surprise these athletes often use their sizeable salaries to buy high-end cars.
Owning a luxury car – whether it's a Bugatti Veyron, a Porsche 911 or something else – is something virtually every motorist dreams of. If you're looking to turn these dreams into reality, however, it's important that you pay a fair price for a high-end vehicle.
Although many motorcyclists will choose to store their bikes in their garages during the winter, it is still possible to enjoy fantastic riding in the UK throughout the colder months. If you are planning on riding your bike at this time of year, however, you'll need to give additional thought into making sure you stay safe while on the road.
With the forthcoming winter meaning conditions set to become challenging for drivers, it's important to make sure the car you drive can tackle whatever the weather throws at you. If you're worried your present model won't cope in the snow and will struggle if it goes off-road, now is a good time to look at getting a new vehicle. You might find 4x4s prove to be a particularly good choice.
If you are looking for a new car for business use and you primarily drive your vehicle in a city, there are few better options than a MINI. These quirky, compact cars may have been on the market for a long time, but they're still up there with the best.
When you're coming to the end of your current leasing deal for your company car, you'll need to start looking around to find your next model well before you have to make the switch. One option that is worthy of consideration is the BMW 3 Series.
Taking your bike on an overseas motorcycle holiday is a great way to experience different countries and cultures. However, just like with any other break that you take, it's important you plan a biking trip properly so you do not only have an amazing adventure, but you also stay safe.
Choosing a new car can be tricky whatever type you're looking for, but there's even more to consider when it comes to buying a luxury 4×4. Read our guide to get the lowdown on what to think about when selecting one of these vehicles.
A lot of people are attracted to motorcycling because the traditional image of the leather-clad biker is pretty cool. However, most riders choose their gear with safety rather than style in mind, particularly when it comes to motorbike boots.
If you are searching for a car that combines looks with performance, you ought to consider the models Volkswagen has on offer. While the German manufacturer has produced a wide range of automobile over the years and provides something suitable for drivers across all needs and budgets, the Passat is a particularly good choice.
Searching for your next company car can be a bit of an arduous process, especially as there is so much choice on the market nowadays. If you're looking for a comfortable car that's ideal for city driving, consider the MINI Clubman.
If you drive frequently for work and want to make a good impression at any business meeting you turn up at, you'll need to have the right executive car to drive. There is an increasing number of high-end autos on the market, so here are just four of the best.
Motorcycles are great fun, but they can also be a sensible choice for your everyday transport needs. For the price of an impractically small city car, you can buy a machine that is both suitable for commuting and weekend pleasure rides.
If you are have children you are sure to appreciate the importance of saving money on essentials. One of the best ways to do it is to buy a used car rather than a new one next time you come to change your vehicle.
It does not matter whether your machine of choice is a moped or a supersport bike, you should never ride on the road unless you are wearing a good pair of motorcycling gloves. They may not be mandatory, but they are one of the most important pieces of safety gear for bikers.
Affording a used car may be easier than you think, as there is a wide range of finance products available. However, it can be difficult to work out which of them is most suitable for you, as the industry uses so much jargon.
If you are looking to reduce the amount you spend on your daily commute, it is well worth considering the benefits of owning a scooter. Not only is it more convenient than public transport, you may even find it costs less.
Nothing compares to the thrill of roaring down the open road, but if you are in the process of learning how to ride a motorbike, you also need to understand that safety is paramount. During your lessons, you will consistently build on your knowledge, but to familiarise yourself with the essentials, read our guide.
Regardless of what kind of car you plan to lease for long-term use, there are numerous factors you should consider before choosing a model and a contract. If you're looking at one of the BMW 5 Series range, here are a few things to bear in mind.
Owning a motorcycle can be about more than having a low-cost form of transport, as riding is also a social activity. There are events across the UK throughout the year that see bikers get together to talk about their machines, admire classics and view the latest equipment.
Opting to buy a used car instead of a new one is a great way to save money, but you may be deterred after hearing some of the many horror stories about second hand car dealers. However, there are some simple steps you can take to ensure you get a reliable vehicle for a bargain price.
When it comes to buying a motorcycle, almost all riders would love to be in a position to splash out on a brand new model. However, there are a number of reasons why a used bike may be a better purchase for you.
There are so many things to think about when buying a car, that it is not something you ought to rush into. One of the most fundamental decisions you'll need to make, however, is figuring out whether you want a vehicle that runs on petrol or diesel. Both these forms of fuel have their own advantages, so it is an area you'll need to give careful consideration to.
Getting started as a motorcyclist is guaranteed to be an exciting experience, as long as you can ensure it is also a safe one. Looking for a first bike to learn on can be great fun, but you will also need to buy all the correct clothing for riding.
Selecting a new car can be something of a minefield whether you're planning to buy the vehicle in question or are intending to lease it. One brand you can trust, however, is BMW – and here are just some of the reasons why it's such a good option.
Although driving a car, by its very nature, produces harmful emissions, there are many ways motorists can reduce the impact they have on the environment. To discover more about how you can become an eco-friendly driver and lower your carbon footprint, read on.
If everyone in your household has their own car – or cars – it is worth giving careful consideration to how these vehicles are covered. Although you may already have individual policies in place for each of the cars, it is often better to get a more inclusive policy.
Learning to ride a motorcycle will give you access to a low-cost form of transport and the prospect of a lifetime of enjoyable motoring. The process for gaining a licence can seem complicated because it involves a number of stages, but a little planning will help you through.
Owning your first motorcycle is an experience you will never forget, so it is important you buy the right one. It may come as a disappointment that you can't begin life on the roads on a powerful bike, but you should still be able to find a machine you enjoy riding.
Whether you've managed to secure a competitive deal on a second-hand motorhome or splashed out thousands on buying the latest model, it's important to protect your vehicle. Regardless of how much you paid for your motorhome, you shouldn't skimp when it comes to securing it.
If you want a really luxurious holiday, you're sure to be looking for a motorhome that is equally chic. Although sourcing suitable vehicles shouldn't be too hard – there are a range of companies making fantastic models – you may struggle deciding on which particular one you would like to drive the most.
Buying a used car can be a good way to pick up a bargain and to avoid the depreciation associated with new vehicles. However, you are sure to have heard horror stories from people who opted for a second hand motor, and the same could happen to you, unless you do your research.
Ever since its launch some 20 years ago, the Ford Mondeo has long been a popular option among British drivers. With the vehicle not only providing plenty of performance but also a comfortable ride, it is perhaps of little surprise that it has been much coveted among all kinds of motorists and won a string of awards.
Some bikers see their motorcycles as nothing more than a cheap and easy way of commuting, while others love the romance of riding on the open road. There is also a third group who are fascinated by technology and engines, and enjoy nothing more than tinkering with their machines.
Whether it's a vintage Aston Martin or a top-of-the-range Lamborghini, if you own a luxury car it's important to get a comprehensive level of insurance for it. Of course, all drivers are legally obliged to have cover, but the fact you have a prestige motor means you'll need to seek specialist protection for it.
Safety should be of paramount concern to all motorcyclists and that means you must do a little preparation before you take to the roads. Choosing the right clothing could mean you avoid serious injury if you are involved in an accident, so it is well worth taking some time to get it right.
Road trips may be the classic American holiday, but you don't have to go to the US to enjoy one. There are plenty of highways in Europe that wind their way through spectacular scenery and call at fascinating towns, making them perfect for driving getaways.
Reliability, practicality and safety are the key things to look out for when it comes to choosing a new family car. One brand that has all of this in spades is BMW. Check out our guide to see which three models are particularly ideal for families.
If you have bought into the romance and heritage of motorcycling, it is almost certain you will rate style as more important than speed when you come to buy a new machine. Fortunately, there are a host of retro motorbikes on the market that match your taste.
Whether you are after a nippy car for the morning commute or want something capable of driving off-road, when it comes to Ford cars, you'll be buying into a well-respected brand. The company has been one of the world's leading motor manufacturers for decades, producing an array of vehicles synonymous with style, reliability and performance.
Owning a prestige car is something that many motoring enthusiasts can only dream of, but if you're lucky enough to have a high net worth it's something that you can actually turn into a reality. Unsurprisingly, it takes a bit more effort to get a good deal on a Rolls-Royce or Bentley than it does for more mainstream vehicles like Peugeots, in terms of both time and money.
Attending a car auction is a great way to get your hands on a top-quality car for a competitive price. If you're lucky, you could end up purchasing a model for significantly less than it would cost if you were buying the same vehicle from a traditional dealership. However, it's important to act with caution when buying cars at auction.
Whether your chosen motorbike is a top of the range Ducati or something smaller designed for getting around town, you will want to ensure you get the maximum performance out of it. There are lots of ways to help do this and not all of them involve in-depth mechanical knowledge.
So, you've got a sports car, it's your pride and joy and now you want to insure it – but where do you start? Firstly, don't make the mistake of thinking a standard policy is the best way to go, there are a host of benefits to choosing specialist cover.
A driving holiday is a great way to make the most of your time off work, as it will give you the opportunity to visit a variety of places and take in some tranquil rural views along the way. You are sure to have designed a route for your break, but that is not the only preparation you need to do.
Buying a new car is a big financial commitment. In the current climate, when many people are managing their finances especially tightly every month, saving up to buy a new car could be tricky.
Buying an American motorhome – or RV, as they're also known – allows you to recreate the fun and excitement of US roadtripping right here in the UK and wherever else takes your fancy! More Brits have been buying RVs over the years and, as they are usually larger than their UK and European cousins – after all, the US is famous for liking things big, whether it's the size of their vehicles or their burgers – they offer more space to enjoy relaxing camping holidays.
Buying a used vehicle and restoring it to its former glory is one of the most satisfying things a car lover can do. Not only could it save you money, it will also improve your skills as a mechanic and encourage you to learn all sorts of useful things about engines.
You've found your dream car, it's exactly what you've always hoped it would be and now you need to take care of it. Aside from regular maintenance work, one of the most important things to consider is insurance, so what are the options for luxury car owners?
Taking a motorhome trip overseas is a great way to spend your holiday, but before you begin planning your route, there are several things you need to consider first. Here are some top tips on how to prepare for an international campervan getaway.
Spring sees the arrival of a new number plate – and the launch of a wide variety of cars. Are you looking for a shiny new motor to wear that ‘12’ plate? Here is a rundown of the newcomers.
If you are looking for a stylish new bike, Ducati motorcycles are sure to be among the options you are considering. The name is one of the best known in the industry, synonymous with quality, speed and flamboyance.
If you're a passionate rider, you'll know that there are plenty of great motorcycle makes out there – but which are the best choice for experienced bikers? Read our guide to find out more about some of the top manufacturers.
Courier insurance, goods-in-transit insurance and breakdown cover are all designed to protect couriers as they go about their daily business. It is important you explore the various products available to you and purchase those you deem necessary.
It's a debate that splits opinion amongst motorists: is it more cost-effective to buy a new car or a second-hand one? Owning a brand-new vehicle is a great experience, but is it really worth the money?
Frivolous personal injury claims have plagued the car insurance industry for years and are often blamed for rising quote prices. Fraud is rife within this sector as criminals look to exploit loopholes in policies. Even more harrowingly, the fraudsters are now launching attacks from a very different angle and it is the innocent roadsters, once again, who will be caught up in the crossfire.
If you have recently purchased a motorcycle, you will be keen to ensure it stays in great condition it is in now for the foreseeable future. One of the most important elements in good motorbike maintenance is getting it serviced – but how often should this be done?
Cars are complex machines and keeping them in good condition can seem an equally intricate affair. However, by following our top five tips, you can make sure that your vehicle stays as smooth-running as possible.
It seems as though motorists have been running away from an avalanche of rising insurance prices for the last few years. January 2012 is looking to add even more snow to the financial crush but for businesses operating multiple company vehicles – there could be chance of rescue in the form of cheaper fleet insurance.
The new year is a time when showrooms across the country put on motorbike sales in order to make space for the latest models. However, if you're new to biking, how can you choose which vehicle is best for your needs? Read our guide for help deciding.
