CorkIndependent.com Motoring Feed http://www.corkindependent.com Fri, 04 Jul 2008 12:57:43 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.corkindependent.com/images/M_images/joomla_rss.png http://www.corkindependent.com CorkIndependent.com Motoring Feed http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2843&Itemid=96 Rust has always been a problem for Irish car owners, due to our maritime climate the problems it can present can often be more pronounced here than elsewhere. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 07:54:56 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2842&Itemid=96 Last week, transport ministers from Britain, Ireland and Northern Ireland met at Stormont to make a joint declaration on banned drivers. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 07:54:05 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2819&Itemid=96 Always install the seat tightly, using your body weight to tighten and fasten the seatbelt. There should be no more than one inch of movement in the seat from side to side or forward. Each time you place your child in the seat, give it a tug to make sure it is still secure. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:02:41 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2818&Itemid=96 Getting around in Ireland has never been too easy, a combination of geography, population density and poor economic performance have transpired to make travelling for generations of Irish people a one-way affair, principally out of the country. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:00:21 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2795&Itemid=96 If no leaks are apparent, the radiator cap should be pressure tested to make sure it is holding the specified pressure. If the spring inside the cap is weak the engine will lose coolant out the overflow tube every time it gets hot. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:42:40 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2794&Itemid=96 People need to be told the bleedin' obvious it seems. In these nanny-state times the people of the world's richest countries need to be instructed, cosseted and protected from their own stupidity. It may also be that in these politically beige times that governments don't have much else to do apart from helping the rich get richer and widening the level of inequality between the poorest and wealthiest among us. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:41:26 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2793&Itemid=96 Ask anyone in Cork to name twp or three car dealers and the likelihood is that Grandons of Glanmire will be one that springs to mind. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:39:46 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2792&Itemid=96 Model: Bentley Continental V-12 flying Spur Year: 2008 Price: €269,950 Where: Nyhan Motors, The By-Pass, Bandon Tel: 023 20000, web: www.nyhanmotors.ie (http://www.nyhanmotors.ie) Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:38:33 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2759&Itemid=96 Toyota is encouraging Avensis buyers to look at their 1.6 litre petrol engine value in advance of the VRT changes. Toyota claims that buyers can save up to €1,600 on Avensis and €730 on Auris Petrol models. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:56:08 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2758&Itemid=96 The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has produced a simple question and answer booklet on the implications of the changes in the VRT and Road Tax rates. This provides some additional information for car buyers in order that you can make an informed decision in good time. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:55:45 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2757&Itemid=96 At this stage and before the new tax rates are applied, the changes mean that it is important to examine a new car offer before the July 1st deadline. The car of your choice may go up or down in price following this date. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:54:28 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2756&Itemid=96 Your local car dealers will pay the VRT tax when you complete the deal for your new car and then you have to arrange your annual road tax with your local authority. The rate of road tax will also be changing from July 1st. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:44:15 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2755&Itemid=96 The VRT makes up a significant part of the price that you are quoted at your motor dealers. This VRT is a tax applied by the Revenue Commissioners based on what is called the Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) of the car. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:36:28 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2754&Itemid=96 From the start of next month the Government has introduced a new car taxation system which changes the way car tax is calculated when you buy a new car and changes the way your annual road tax rate is calculated on your new car from then on. The new system is based on the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions from the car engine. It has been introduced to encourage us to buy and drive cleaner cars. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:35:49 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2722&Itemid=96 Replacing of 10% of cars, vans and buses in Ireland with currently available models of hybrid and battery electric vehicles could reduce national CO2 emissions by 0.35 million tonnes annually - the equivalent of removing emissions from over 100,000 cars on Irish roads. Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:04:36 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2721&Itemid=96 If you were hoping that the government might lend a helping hand with the soaring cost of fuel you can think again. Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:03:10 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2720&Itemid=96 Nobody ever thinks the worst will happen to them, but what if it does? Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:01:17 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2694&Itemid=96 Long car journeys test even the most patient of drivers. Here are some tips on how to reduce stress and tiredness and cope with lengthy trips on the road. Thu, 29 May 2008 08:56:01 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2691&Itemid=96 I don’t want to be alarmist, but it seems to me that the end of the world may well be nigh. Thu, 29 May 2008 08:52:36 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2690&Itemid=96 Billy Kelleher is a Fianna Fáil TD for the Cork North Central constituency and is also the Minister of State with responsibility for Labour Affairs. Thu, 29 May 2008 08:50:41 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2654&Itemid=96 Preparing for a long journey Preparing the Car Packing the Car Thu, 22 May 2008 09:09:21 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2653&Itemid=96 The world of motoring was shaken to its foundations last week when a new study was published focusing on a particular aspect of road safety. Thu, 22 May 2008 09:06:49 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2652&Itemid=96 Simon Coveney is a Fine Gael TD for Cork South Central. He was first elected in a 1998 by-election following the death of his father Hugh Coveney. He was re-elected at the 2002 and 2007 general elections and also served as an MEP from 2004 to 2007. He is currently Fine Gael’s front bench spokesperson for communications, energy and natural resources. Thu, 22 May 2008 09:03:05 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2651&Itemid=96 Citroen’s new C5 which lands at dealerships this week is a new and competitive offering from the French car company. The new C5 comes with a high level specification package, modern styling and now the bonus of competitive pricing. Thu, 22 May 2008 09:01:19 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2644&Itemid=96 New figures from Thatcham, the UK Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre, show popular ‘City Cars’ as the least effective in saving the occupant from debilitating whiplash injury in the event of low speed rear end collisions. Thu, 15 May 2008 09:10:47 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2643&Itemid=96 Doing your own oil change is one of the more complicated things to attempt for the DIY mechanic but it’s not impossible. Thu, 15 May 2008 09:09:29 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2642&Itemid=96 Transport 21, the Government’s much hyped and little thought out super plan for delivering what in most developed countries would be considered an acceptable transport system is already dead. Thu, 15 May 2008 09:07:33 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2640&Itemid=96 Munster and Ireland Rugby Star, Tony Buckley was educated first in Boher Bui Comprehensive and then Newbridge College, where he played lock on the senior side for two cup campaigns reaching the Leinster Senior Cup semi final in 1999. Thu, 15 May 2008 09:04:20 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2607&Itemid=96 Sometimes your car just doesn't drive as well as you know it should. Maybe it sounds a little rough or isn't pulling the way it normally does. You've changed the oil, or it's had a recent service but it just isn't right. Thu, 08 May 2008 08:57:53 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2606&Itemid=96 Killarney was, as usual, thronged with tourists over the bank holiday weekend. The town has of course attracted visitors since the 19th century who come in the main to experience its outstanding natural beauty and hospitality. Thu, 08 May 2008 08:56:52 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2605&Itemid=96 Tom Kenny is an integral part of Cork's senior inter-county hurling team. He plays his club hurling with Grenagh where he grew up and still lives. He has made 22 senior appearances with Cork since his debut in 2003 and has won three Munster and two All-Ireland titles. He is a former pupil of St Finbarr's College, Farranferris, and also attended UCC where he studied commerce. He currently works for Ernst and Young. Thu, 08 May 2008 08:55:22 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2604&Itemid=96 A new name, a new car, a new ambition. With its groundbreaking design and sophisticated technology, the Insignia makes a quantum leap toward rejuvenating the brand and providing the perfect opportunity to discover Opel. Thu, 08 May 2008 08:53:51 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2584&Itemid=96 A variety of surveys have been carried out on the effectiveness of child safety seats, and they all point in the same direction: that most car seats are not fitted correctly. Thu, 01 May 2008 09:34:14 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2583&Itemid=96 In West Cork they call them spinners because they spend much of their time spinning round and round. You might know them better as boy-racers, but whatever you call them it looks like the tentacles of the ever-growing Nanny State are about to reach those hormonally imbalanced young men who have nothing better to do than drives cars too quickly. Thu, 01 May 2008 09:32:58 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2582&Itemid=96 Mitsubishi has developed a novel version of the L200 4x4 pick-up; a new commercial version. The new L200 Double Cab Commercial is based on the hugely successful passenger version of the L200 with the rear seats removed. Thu, 01 May 2008 09:31:31 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2581&Itemid=96 Joe Gavin is the Current Cork City Manager. He too up the post in 2000 and previously held the post of Galway City Manager between 1994 and 2000. He has also worked with various other local authorities in Ireland including Sligo, Mayo, Kildare county councils. Thu, 01 May 2008 09:28:47 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2555&Itemid=96 Making sure your engine has clean, good quality oil for lubrication is an essential but often overlooked aspect of car maintenance. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:26:31 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2554&Itemid=96 Abernethys has been a Ford dealer in East Cork Since 1928. For a really sound deal whether you are looking for a new Ford car or commercial look no further. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:25:42 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2553&Itemid=96 Ben O'Connor from Newtownshandrum is one of Cork's best-known inter-county hurlers. He currently works as a hurley maker and plays his club hurling with Newtownshandrum. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:24:28 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2552&Itemid=96 The new Kuga is Ford's first entry into the highly competitive crossover market. Ford claim that it promises a blend of rewarding on-road driving quality and surprising off-road capability. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:23:12 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2525&Itemid=96 There you are, driving along, not a care in the world. It's a lovely sunny spring day and you're enjoying your Sunday drive. Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:29:29 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2524&Itemid=96 It has been widely reported that the impending changes to the motor tax regime that is due to come into force on July 1 have had a dramatic impact on the sale of cars. Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:28:44 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2523&Itemid=96 Noel O'Flynn is a long serving Fianna Fáil TD for the Northside of Cork city. He has long been involved in the motor industry through his clutch and brake business. Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:25:29 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2502&Itemid=96 Goodbye C.C. Hello C02. That's the message for everyone buying a new car from July 1 who wants the best value-for-money, greenest car. On that day the old regime ends. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:20:48 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2501&Itemid=96 The BMW strategy, known as BMW EfficientDynamics, means that from July 2008 Irish customers buying a new BMW or MINI can expect to make significant savings when the new Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) system comes into effect. Of the standard/entry level transmissions on the 253 BMW models, BMw reports that 172 models will fall in price, or 68% of the range. Of the 13 MINI models 9 fall in price, or 69%. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:19:34 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2500&Itemid=96 The one millionth Peugeot 207 car has rolled off the production lines, less than two years after the model's commercial launch. Continuing the success and leadership of the legendary Peugeot 205 and 206, the 207 is now sold in over one hundred countries and exceeded worldwide sales objective by more than 20,000 units in 2007. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:18:27 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2499&Itemid=96 Ford was the leading vehicle brand for March 2008 sales, according to figures released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). However, the SIMI figures confirm the expected slowdown in sales in the Irish car market. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:17:49 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2498&Itemid=96 The new small and compact Hyundai i10 has been launched on the Irish market. The car comes with a 1.1 litre petrol engine, in 5-door form and a competitive pricing starting at €11,995 before delivery charges. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:15:53 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2497&Itemid=96 Mondello Park is currently preparing for one of the biggest events of its 40th anniversary season, with Round 1 of the inaugural 'Prodrift European series', the first pan-European drift series, scheduled for the weekend of April 19th 20th. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:15:10 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2496&Itemid=96 Seat has lifted the covers from the most important new model in Spanish car maker Seat's recent history. The new Ibiza's debut marks the start of a major product offensive from the ambitious Spanish brand which will, over the coming months, also see the debut of further Ibiza variants, as well as striking new saloon and estate contenders in the upper medium segment. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:14:36 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2495&Itemid=96 BMW has developed a new Canine Repellent Alloy Protection system, which is designed to stop dogs fouling against the sparkling alloys of new BMW cars. Called the innovative Canine Repellent Alloy Protection system (C.R.A.P.) is the latest offering in the BMW EfficientDynamics programme. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:13:50 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2494&Itemid=96 A quarter of company car drivers are driving their vehicles on illegal tyres and another 29% are waiting until they reach the minimum legal limit before getting tyres changed. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:13:13 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2493&Itemid=96 New research for the UK shows that children from poorer areas are far more likely to be hurt in traffic accidents, either as pedestrians or cyclists. The study was based on data of hospital admissions, shows that children from deprived areas are four times more likely to be seriously injured as pedestrians, and three times more likely when cycling. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:12:44 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2492&Itemid=96 Tata Motors has finally completed the deal to buy Jaguar and Land Rover from the Ford Motor Company in a $2.3 billion (£1.15bn) deal. The deal follows Ford's decision last August to explore options for the Jaguar and Land Rover businesses. Ford is concentrating its focus on its core Ford brand and 'One Ford' global transformation. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:12:11 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2491&Itemid=96 The Jeep name is associated with off-road driving. That market is now merged into various forms, but the Jeep tag still links with solid and rugged performance. The new Jeep Wrangler range continues that tradition as Michael Moroney found out during his recent test drive. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:11:30 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2463&Itemid=96 Uniroyal has launched its latest offering for high performance cars in Ireland: the Rainsport 2 tyre. The Rainsport 2 delivers outstanding performance and gives motorists greater safety in wet conditions when it is most needed. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:20:51 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2462&Itemid=96 Almost a fifth of all cars could be on the road with their drivers unaware of “potentially dangerous”, and costly, damage caused by potholes, according to Warranty Direct in the UK. With the average motorist suffering a mechanical failure once every three years, nearly 19% of the cars on the road - could have pothole-related damage that may not be immediately apparent to the driver, according to Warranty Direct. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:20:07 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2461&Itemid=96 The British Medical Association (BMA) has suggested that sleep detectors should be installed in all company cars to stop drivers nodding off. The call comes on the back of estimates that 20% of car crash deaths each year are caused by drivers falling asleep at the wheel. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:18:22 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2460&Itemid=96 The current world and local economic uncertainties, coupled with green taxes, are making car depreciation rates worse, according to motor industry analysts. Analysts EurotaxGlass’s say the value of used cars will fall by an additional 8% this year. Big family cars, which traditionally lose most value, and four-wheel drive vehicles are worst affected. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:17:49 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2459&Itemid=96 A revamp of the UK driving test will begin soon after Easter in an attempt to reduce the number of deaths and injuries among young and novice drivers. It is reported that the driving age will effectively rise to 18 as the test system becomes more difficult and pre-test training more complicated. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:16:49 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2458&Itemid=96 Euro NCAP has released results for its assessment of the modified Nissan Navara. The upgraded car has achieved three stars for adult occupant protection. After Euro NCAP’s earlier tests highlighted serious safety concerns, Nissan promptly modified all new production vehicles and initiated a Service Campaign to upgrade the airbag software of all Navaras produced since 2005. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:16:06 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2457&Itemid=96 The world’s leading commercial electric vehicle manufacturer has secured an order for 100 zero emission vans and trucks for the Republic of Ireland. Smith Electric Vehicles will deliver 100 of its Newton and Edison vehicles, in its largest fleet order to date. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:15:16 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2456&Itemid=96 Ford is recommitting its support to former rally driver Rosemary Smith’s Think Awareness road safety initiative, as the programme launches a new school’s pack. The specially devised training programme has given thousands of Irish teenagers their first taste of safe driving in a thoroughly safe environment. The initiative was set up ten years ago following the success of similar programmes in the US. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:06:46 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2454&Itemid=96 Some 34 years after the first Scirocco was unveiled, Volkswagen has launched what they term ‘a new Scirocco for a new era’. Scheduled to arrive into Ireland next September, the new two-door Scirocco is a completely re-engineered all-round sports car that they say is both sporty and innovative. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:06:01 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2453&Itemid=96 The challenge: to create a viable, highly-efficient family vehicle capable of emitting less than 90 g/km of CO2. Volkswagen engineers have combined an advanced diesel engine with an electric motor and the very latest generation of seven-speed DSG gearbox to achieve an incredible economy result. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:05:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2452&Itemid=96 Lexus has announced some improvements to the GS range. There are noticeable exterior and interior design changes across the range. The GS 300 equipment specification is now enhanced with Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS). The cars can be specified with a new Active Stabiliser system and run flat tyres. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:03:28 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2451&Itemid=96 Bridgestone has been elected “Tyre Manufacturer of the Year” in the inaugural 2008 Tire Technology International Awards for Innovation and Excellence. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:00:04 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2450&Itemid=96 For Subaru the Impreza range is the most popular car. The Impreza has been linked with the boy-racer fans due to its rallying pedigree giving Subaru as a niche player on the Irish market some status. Now Subaru has upgraded the Impreza and converted it to a more sedate looking hatchback. Is there a difference? Michael Moroney reports from his recent test drive. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:57:57 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2435&Itemid=96 It’s always vital that you take good care of your vehicles tyres, put perhaps even more so at this time of the year. Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:50:28 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2434&Itemid=96 St Patrick’s Day came and went last weekend and there was the usual sense of Déjà vu about proceedings. Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:43:29 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2433&Itemid=96 For generations Johnson Perrott have been an integral part of Cork’s motoring heritage. Incredibly this venerable company have been catering to the transport needs of the people of Cork in one form or another for nearly 200 years. Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:34:22 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2432&Itemid=96 Born in Fiji Islands, spent 8 years in Sydney Australia before moving to Cork as an 11 year old in 1988. Works for Ulster Bank as a Commercial Manager in Cork City. Current member of the Cork Senior Hurling Team and have represented Cork in both Hurling Gaelic Football in Minor, U-21 Senior Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:30:05 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2385&Itemid=96 Peugeot has unveiled its new turbo-charged 308 GT at this year's Geneva Motor Show. This new top of the range model will be powered by a 1.6 litre turbo-charged THP 175bhp petrol engine, matched to a new 6-speed manual gearbox. Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:01:10 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2384&Itemid=96 Opel claims to have taken vehicle flexibility to new height with the launch of the new Meriva Concept with its innovative FlexDoors system at this weeks Geneva Motor Show. This consists of rear-hinged rear doors that swing open toward the back of the car. Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:59:08 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2383&Itemid=96 The new 2009 Nissan Murano, which is on sale in the US and is coming to Europe late 2008 has earned a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). When testing nine mid-sized SUV models, IIHS found the Murano to be the best overall performer in front, side and rear crash test evaluations. Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:58:08 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2382&Itemid=96 Fiat’s new Bravo range has undoubted style. The car has been given a power boost with the arrival of the turbo-charged petrol engine, the T-Jet model. Michael Moroney took the T-Jet on test recently and reports on his power trip. Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:56:54 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2119&Itemid=96 The all-new Mazda6 will be priced from €28,395 when it goes on sale at The Mazda Centre showroom on 23rd November. Thu, 22 Nov 2007 10:52:47 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2118&Itemid=96 The new bigger and roomier MINI Clubman has gone on sale in Ireland. The car is based on a concept first shown at Frankfurt Motor Show in 2005, and is a modern interpretation of its famous Mini predecessors taking into account all the demands and technologies of the 21st century. Thu, 22 Nov 2007 10:46:43 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2035&Itemid=96 Mercedes Benz has added to its luxury image with a super design CLS Class range. This combines coupe styling with more space, accessibility and a decent boot. Michael Moroney joined the coupe class recently with a test drive of the CLS and here’s his report. Thu, 25 Oct 2007 11:34:08 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1986&Itemid=96 Most deaths on Britain’s roads are caused by driver error, according to the official Department for Transport analysis of 2006 road traffic accident casualties. Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:41:17 +0100