Steve Q

Steve sets to find out whether the Hyundai i10 makes a good used car purchase. The I10 is the smallest car on offer from Hyundai and one of the cheapest on the market, but don’t let that dissuade you from considering one. As its staggering how far Hyundai has come in build quality and refinement In the last 20 years. Exterior The design of the i10 for me is both smart and cute and thanks to its tall roof allows for plenty of head space for occupants. As well as having day time running lights and nicely designed vents/bumpers helps with the quirky styling ques. Visibility is excellent too thanks to thin pillars and large amount of glass from all angles which certainly helps when manoeuvring. Lower spec’d models such as the entry level S model like we have here has wheel trims and black plastic door handles and wing mirrors, so if you’re wanting some extra style then you’ll have to consider SE or premium trim which come with alloy wheels and more paint. The fit and finish is also excellent along with good quality paint in a variety of colours. Interior Moving into the interior it’s obvious that this is a cabin that’s been well put together with hard plastics which are tough yet simple, but slightly bland in just one shade of grey. In the entry level trim the I10 is “just a car” benefiting from manual wing mirrors, non self-cancelling indicators, no air con but does come with electric front windows, central locking and aux input, but let’s face it with less gizmos, there is less to go wrong. But my advice would be to avoid the entry level S trim where possible. Dependent on spec the i10 can be well equipped with climate air conditioning, heated steering wheel, cruise control and sunroofs on higher spec models. The dials are clear and well laid out and heating/radio controls are nicely positioned. On SE premium trim the i10 comes with a 7” touchscreen display with sat nav, apple carplay/android auto. I found the sound quality poor on this S spec car but it does only come with 2 speakers. I suspect the sound quality on other spec levels would be far better. The cabin is a comfortable place to sit with room for four adults, as well as plenty of leg room for both front and rear passengers as well as having good support in the seats. The cabin also benefits with plenty of storage bins and pockets as well as an array of cup holders in the doors and centre console. The boot is an excellent size too at 252 litres which makes it one of the largest boots in its class, but this reduces dramatically to 218 litres when a space saver spare wheel is fitted. On The Road The car I have on test is the 1.0 litre 65bhp turbo charged 3 cylinder with over 60MPG but there is also a 1.2 86bhp engine too both of which are mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox or an optional 4 speed automatic. These are the only two engines offered for the I10 but that’s more than adequate for a car of this size. For town, motorway or country driving I found the 1.0 litre punchy and had good acceleration, which gave you confidence when building up speed to join motorways and can sit at motorway speeds without fuss. On the whole the gearbox was smooth and easy to engage gears, except reverse where I have found I have had to fight to engage it. As you’d like to expect from a small city car the steering is very light which is ideal for parking and does affect the feel when on the open road a little, but nothing that would make you lack confidence. The suspension shapes up well too for such a light care, being able to absorb most bumps and allows the i10 to offer a comfortable ride. Brakes are sharp too and can stop the i10 on a dime. Wind noise is low but I did find when having the driver’s window down there was significant wind thumping noise which was irritating after a while. Road noise was also prevalent but this probably could be reduced by a different tyre brand. Hyundai haven’t skimped on safety either as all I10 models have a 4* Euro Ncap safety rating and did not achieve 5* due to a lack of driver aids but a driver assistance pack is available as an option at £275 and worth seeking out on used models and includes front collision detection and lane keep assist. Another key plus point for the I10 on the used car market is its 47% residual value after 3 years which is far better than most of its rivals as well as being in insurance band 1 for the 1.0 litres and the 1.2 is in band 4/5 will mean it’ll be cheap to insure making it ideal for young drivers. Also let’s not forget road tax cost is average at £140 a year. Overview With smart looks, composed driving characteristics, good build quality, low running costs and long warranty the i10 certainly makes a sensible city car or first car choice.

Steve takes a look at the Mk3 Focus to establish whether it makes a sensible used car purchase Exterior Despite the oldest MK3 Focus models now nearing 9 years old the design still looks fresh and modern. The Focus did receive a facelift in 2014 which sharpened the looks by giving it a larger front grill and different bumper profile which helped bring the Focus design in line with the rest of the Ford range. The appearance of the Focus can differ greatly depending on the spec level with Titanium/Titanium X models benefiting from more chrome on the grill and larger wheels, whereas ST Line trim benefits from having sideskirts, rear diffuser and boot spoiler. Top spec performance models benefit from a similar bodykit also. Interior Sliding into the bucket seats on this model it is clear that the Focus has a very nice driving position with a great level of support from the seats. Furthermore occupants won’t be disappointed with the volume of space both in headroom and legroom which allows the Focus to carry four adults comfortably and five at a push. The boot size is 316 litres which is only 17 litres more than the Ford Fiesta. So I’d advise if you need more boot space then a Focus estate is more what you’re after. The dash is nicely laid out too with all the controls in easy reach and the infotainment set in your eyeline makes it easy to use. The larger screen on facelifted models (post 2014) is far better than the predecessor as depending on model you’ll benefit from Ford’s Sync 2 infotainment system. Pre-faced models made do with an array of buttons on the dash, whereas the new touch screen as made the dash appear more tidy. I personally find Sync 2 one of the best infotainment systems on the market as the touch screen is very responsive and easy to use. It also benefits from a DAB radio. I would recommend trying to go for the sat nav extra on the sync 2 as is a superb sat nav, with clear instructions and good mapping. Facelifted models can also come with the self-parking function. Most Focus models come well spec’d even in the lower trim forms with electric front windows, electric heated mirrors, digital radio, Bluetooth and heated windscreen as standard. ST performance models range from ST through to ST3 which differ from engine options which is either a diesel or 2.0 litre petrol as well as bucket seats and leather trim on some models. On The Road The model I have on test is a 2016 ST Line fitted with the 1.5 Duratorq diesel engine and mated to a 6 speed manual gearbox. As you’d expect various engine options are available to cater for all tastes and budgets including a 1.6 petrol, 1.0 litre Ford Ecoboost petrol engine which is sprightly but unfortunately do not match their claimed MPG figures and 2012-2013 models had a tendency to experiemce engine failure. There was also either a 1.5 in 105 or 118bhp, 1.6 or 2.0 diesel which will average between 30-50mpg. All engines come with either a 6 speed manual or option Fords Powershift automatic. The latter is very smooth but can become problematic if not maintained correctly. Whichever Focus model you choose you’ll find a car that has great road manners with suspension with his compliant and is able to absorb bumps well. As you’d expect ST models have very firm lowered suspension making you feel more bumps in the road. Good suspension is complimented by direct steering which is light but provides a good feel as to where the wheels are pointing. The brakes are also more than capable at bringing the Focus to a stop quickly and without fuss, as you’d expect the brakes on performance models are beefier than other main stream models. Overview Now in its third generation the Mk3 Focus does make a sensible used car purchase and despite being slightly smaller than some of its rivals it certainly makes excellent all round family transport.

Steve takes a look at brake discs. Everybody knows that brake discs help stop your vehicle as and when required, but did you know there are different types of discs available offering varying degrees of stopping efficiency. Most brake discs are made of iron and sit within a rotating spindle and work by converting kinetic energy (speed) into friction (heat) when the brake pads are applied to the discs. Disc brakes where introduced to vehicles due to their improved stopping potential and ability to be cooled a lot more efficiently by being exposed compared to drum brakes which were more restrictive and were more likely to suffer from brake fade. Here's a run through of the different types: Solid Brake Disc These solid iron discs are flat/smooth and are often found on smaller/lighter economy vehicles or older cars due to being cheap to replace and adequacy for stopping power. However, under excessive use the heat build up can cause the discs to warp which can be felt as a judder through the brake pedal. Vented Brake Disc This type of disc is also smooth in appearance but are vented in the centre thus improving the cooling ability of the brake disc and helping provide improved and consistent stopping power. Vented discs are currently the most popular type found on most modern vehicles and generally very reliable. Drilled Brake Disc As the name suggests these discs are not only vented, but also drilled to improve cooling and often found on modified or performance vehicles. Even though braking performance is greatly improved, these discs can fail by cracking around the drill holes due to excessive heat or over a long duration of use due to the fact the disc can contain less amount of heat over the surface area due to there being less metal to absorb heat. They also have the added benefit of being lighter which can help shorten the vehicles stopping distance. Grooved Brake Disc Similar to drilled discs, grooved discs vent heat away from the discs via the grooves and are also found on modified or performance vehicles but are often noisier than other types of discs and have a habit of wearing brake pads more often. Drilled & Grooved combination Brake Disc As the name suggests this type of disc combines both benefits/disadvantages of both drilled discs and grooved discs and are found on modified, performance or race vehicles. Waved Edge Brake Disc Compared to all other types of brake discs which are cylindrical, this type of brake disc has a waved edge which saves weight whilst not hampering stopping potential and is the most modern of brake disc design. Allegedly, they also improve cooling of the disc and are found on performance cars. Dimpled Brake Disc This type of disc also does not have a flat surface and is designed to help reduce heat whilst not compromising the integrity of the disc. Looking very similar to drilled discs, except the drill hasn't gone through the whole disc. I hope you've found this guide useful. Please let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Steve reviews the worlds most iconic van on its 70th anniversary..... The Volkswagen Transporter. Just like the Volkswagen Beetle, the Transporter is just as famous worldwide and a true symbol of Volkswagen and recognised as a cult vehicle thanks to its involvement in the hippy movement and memories created over numerous generations for its use in holidays. Currently on is 6th version and 7th on the way, Steve takes a look at all generations of Transporter. T1 The first generation Transporter made its debut in 1950 and was a revolution being flat fronted and rear engined. Available in van, pickup, crewcab, minibus (microbus) and camper they all were fitted with aircooled 4 cylinder engines and 4 speed manual gearboxes. Affectionately known as the splitty due to the split windscreen, they were manufactured in Europe between 1950-1967 but lived on in South American/African markets into the 1970s. They are now a true motoring icon and prices are rising. T2 Released in 1968 as a direct replacement to the T1 the second generation built on the reputation of its predecessor and was to become known as the bay window, again thanks to its windscreen design. Just like the T1 the T2 was also fitted with aircooled engines and 4 speed gearboxes and were also available as van, pickup, crewcab, minibus (microbus) and camper. Despite production ending in 1979, the design lived on in South America up to 2015. T25 The T25 was the last rear ended Transporter but compared to the previous generations the windscreen was raked but was also available as a van, pickup, crewcab, minibus (microbus) and camper. Initially offered with a 1.6 or 2.0 litre aircooled engine, the world had moved on and the Transporter need to as well. As such the T25 was the first Transporter to be fitted with watercooled engines both in petrol and diesel form known as wasserboxers as they were watercooled flatfour configuration. Despite production ending in 1992, the design lived on in South Africa for another decade and ceasing production in 2002. T4 Released in 1990 the T4 was a revelation and a shock to Transporter fans, thanks to it being the first generation to be front engined. This helped boost space and flexibility for the Transporter which just like all previous versions came as a van, pickup, crewcab, minibus (microbus), camper and as a chassis cab. It was also the first Transporter to be available in two wheelbases, either short wheel base or long wheel base. The T4 was available with a multitude of petrol and diesel engines which became renowned for their reliability and built between 1990-2004. T5 The second front engined version, the T5 again grew in size over its predecessor and was available as a van, pickup, crewcab, minibus (microbus), camper and chassis cab which allowed it to be used as tipper, recovery truck of flatbed. It is also available as a short wheel base, long wheel base and short or high roof. The T4 was available with a multitude of petrol and diesel engines which ranged from 1.9 to 3.2 litres and built between 2003-2016. T6 This is the current generation, released in 2016 and follows on from its T5 predecessor in terms of appearance and chassis design but benefits from new engines and major interior improvements/redesign. Just like the T5 the current model is also available as a van, pickup, crewcab, minibus (microbus), camper and chassis cab which allowed it to be used as tipper, recovery truck of flatbed. It is also available as a short wheel base, long wheel base and short or high roof. T7 - The Future Volkswagen have announced the T7 Transporter, also known as the ID Buzz will hark back to its routes by being flat fronted and is achieved thanks to being the first Transporter to be powered only by electricity. It will be available as a van and minibus but I suspect other body variants will be offered. It will also come with the next generation autonomous driving technology. I hope you've enjoyed this article, please tell us your opinion by leaving a comment below.

Steve takes a look at another modern safety innovation the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). What is the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System? The TPMS includes 4 individual sensors mounted inside the wheel which constantly monitor the air pressure within each tyre of the vehicle. If there is a loss of air pressure in any of the wheels, the driver will be alerted by a warning on the dashboard that this loss of air pressure has been detected. Dependent on manufacture or age of vehicle some vehicles can tell you on the dash which tyre and PSI its on. This also depends on the type of system fitted to your vehicle and there are currently two types. Indirect monitoring This system works by having the sensors monitor the diameter of each wheel to determine if one of them is under inflated. If they recognise a change they will alert the driver who then will have to check each tyres pressures to determine which wheel is affected (unless obvious), then inflate the tyres and reset the system. Direct monitoring. On this system each wheel has a sensor on each tyre valve which monitors the tyre pressures in real time allowing the driver to check them even when driving. Once this system detects a tyre with a low pressure it will alert the drive to which tyre is affected and what pressure it is currently on. This allows the driver to only focus in reflating the affected tyre. Where is the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System located? One sensor is situated on the inside of each wheel. To determine the correct tyre pressures for your vehicle there will be a sticker similar to the one below on the B pillar, or on the inside of the fuel filler cap which will tell you what the pressures should be for your vehicle. It can also be found in your owners handbook. Does it go wrong? Yes, If there is a fault with the sensors a message will appear on the dash to alert the driver and they can go wrong in various ways: Through age/wear and tear The sensors batteries going flat which again can be due to age. Accidently getting broken during tyre changes. This is the symbol that will appear on the dash. Is it easy to replace? Thankfully the sensors are easy and often cheap to replace. Obviously the sensors don't replace the need to check your tyres pressures manually but act rather as a drive aid. I hope you've found this guide useful Please leave a comment to let us know your opinions.

Just for fun, Steve looks at a selection of kit cars you could use daily. Kit cars are a great symbol of personalisation within the motor industry and people choose them for multiple aspects such as the building process, driving or social aspect of clubs. But believe it or not there are a selection of kit cars that can be pressed into daily service if required and you might have more fun in doing so! Quantum saloon Based on the humble Mk2 Ford Fiesta mechanicals the Quantum Saloon is a fibreglass monocoque body/chassis which can carry 4 people and more sportier looking than the Fiesta counterpart. Being based on the Fiesta Mk2 has meant replacement parts are cheap and the Fiesta interior is carried over to the Saloon. Engine options range from 1.0 litre to 1.6 litre but more modern Zetec engines can be fitted which offer greater performance. Jago Geep/Sandero The Geep, later renamed the Sandero for copyright reasons with Jeep is a small light weight Willys Jeep replica. The body moulds were taken direct from a WW2 Jeep and as such it matches in size to its WW2 counterpart but has a ladder frame chassis. The Geep/Sandero was fitted with mainly Ford Anglia or Escort running gear. it also comes with either a soft top or hard top but be warned it wont keep out the weather like a regular production car. Ginetta G26/G28/G30/G31 Based on Ford Cortina mk3/Mk4 mechanicals these Ginetta models are in many ways similar to the Quantum saloon and is a fibreglass body and galvanised chassis which can carry 4 people, as well as benefiting from a more sportier look than the Cortina counterpart. Being based on the Cortina has meant replacement parts are cheap and the Cortina interior is carried over. Engine options range are the Cortina's 4 or 6 cylinder engines. However, not all the components came from the Cortina as the doors and rear windows came from the Fiesta. Quantum 2+2 Also based on Mk2 Ford Fiesta mechanicals the Quantum 2+2 is a fibreglass convertible monocoque body/chassis which can carry 2 adults and 2 children and more sportier looking than the Fiesta counterpart. Being based on the Fiesta Mk2 has meant replacement parts are cheap and the Fiesta interior is carried over to the 2+2. Engine options range from 1.0 litre to 1.6 litre but more modern Zetec engines can be fitted which offer greater performance. Sterling Nova The Nova kit car is the most futuristic looking car on this list thanks to its jaw dropping roof opening design. Despite the supercar looks, underneath you'll find a humble VW Beetle chassis or Ford Cortina running gear which helps keep running costs low. The Nova is coming back into production by Sterling Sports Cars but will have a custom chassis and various engine options including V8's. The Nova has also featured in films such as Cannonball Run 2 and Death Race. Quantum H4 Based on Mk3 Ford Fiesta mechanicals the Quantum H4 is a fibreglass monocoque convertible body/chassis which can carry 2 people and more sportier looking than the Fiesta counterpart. The H4 also benefits from a unique folding roof design which allows it to be a targa top or complete convertible which is known as a Surrey top. Being based on the Fiesta Mk3 has meant replacement parts are cheap and the Fiesta interior is carried over to the Saloon. Engine options range from 1.0 litre to 1.8 litre including RS turbo and RS1800 engines for ultimate performance. Nu Dimension 911 The Nu Dimension 911 is a very good replica of the current Porsche 911 992 variant and unlike other kit car replicas Nu Dimension have based this car on the Mk1 Porsche Boxter. That's right, this is a hard top Porsche Boxter and as such all the mechanical and interior components are left alone. Instead, new body panels are grafted onto the Boxter's shell giving the look of the current 911. This replica is so accurate, that even the headlights/taillights come from the 992 911. Toyota MR2 based replicas For simplicity I have grouped these styles of kit car together but in affect they are all body conversions whereby you remove various body parts and fit/graft new ones on to give an impression of a different car. In most cases these will often be seen as Ferrari replicas styled to look like the Ferrari 355, Dino or 360 and produced by companies such as DNA. as such all the MR2 mechanicals and interior are retained to aid cheaper running costs and reasonable performance/handling. GTM Libra The Libra was developed as modern incarnation of the Midias and is a fibreglass monocoque which then has Rover Metro subframes and running gear mounted to it. Don't be fooled though as the Libra was a fantastic bit of kit and was available with Rover K series engines and can be converted to run with Honda engines. A targa model was also offered to further the cars appeal and they have been proven to be successful on the track. BMW Z3 based replicas For simplicity I have grouped these styles of kit car together but in affect they are all body conversions whereby you remove various body parts and fit/graft new ones on to give an impression of a different car. In most cases these will often be seen as Ferrari replicas styled to look like the Ferrari 250, AC Cobra or the unique Bertini GT25 and produced by companies such as Tribute Automotive or Bertini. as such all the Z3 mechanicals and interior are retained to aid cheaper running costs and reasonable performance/handling. I hope you've enjoyed this selection of kit cars and let me know your thoughts in the comments section below.

Steve has a look at starter motors. What is a starter motor? As it sounds, the starter motors function is designed to assist in firing up the engine. when the key is turned this sends a message to the alternator and battery, which sends DC current electrical signal to the starter motor. The starter motor then activates a pinion with a mesh (cog), which engages with the flywheel thus turning the engine over which ultimately allows the car to start and run under its own power. Where is the starter motor located? The starter motor is located near to where the engine and gearbox meet, which is often quite low down in the car and can be recognised by being cylindrical in shape with another cylinder on top. VW Sharan starter motor in situ. Does it go wrong? I failing starter motor can manifest itself in various ways: Starter motor completely burnt out often caused by low voltage or persistent turning of the key when engine is either running or failing to start. Low voltage from the battery preventing it to engage properly. Corroded or broken terminals or wiring in the electrical system preventing the electrical connection passing to the starter motor efficiently. Sticking key switch Faulty neutral safety switch Is it easy to replace? In most cases it can be replaced fairly easily a competent DIYer and reqires you to: Disconnect the battery Locate the starter motor Unclip the wiring Unbolt it from the vehicle Refit in the reverse sequence. I hope you have found this guide useful, please let us know by leaving a comment below.

Steve takes a look at alternators What is an alternator? A car alternator converts mechanical energy into electricity, which is then used to charge the vehicles battery and help run vehicle electrical systems whilst the engine is running. Within the alternator is a rotating magnetic field where alternating current passes through a rectifier to be converted into direct current which allows a consistent voltage to be passed through the cars electrical system and battery terminals. To support the alternator is a volt regulator which monitors the electrical current passing around the vehicle and on modern vehicles can be found within the ECU. Where is an alternator located? The alternator is located in the engine bay connected to a belt driven by the engine. Does it go wrong? Yes, they do go wrong which can manifest itself in various ways You find your car has a dead battery which is caused by the alternator not charging the battery when driving The car struggling to start due to the battery being weak due to not being charged by the alternator whilst driving. Whilst driving a red battery light may appear on the dash to indicate an issue with the battery charging system. Whilst driving with lights on you will find them getting progressively dimmer. Electrical systems such as electric windows or locks may start to work intermittently or stop working completely. Funny engine noises. if the bearings within an alternator start to fail they can cause it to make unusual noises or become louder in its operation. Is it easy to replace? Before replacing the alternator the first thing you should do is have it tested to see whether it s producing enough electricity for it to power the vehicle. if it has failed then replacing it is your only option. Dependent on your skill level this is a job that can be done at home and will reguire you to: Disconnect the battery Locate the alternator and jack the vehicle up for access if required. Unclip the electrical connector attached to the alternator. Undo the bolts holding the alternator in place along with removing the belt. Refitting in the reverse order. Hope you found this guide useful. Let us know in the comments section.

In the final instalment Steve takes a look at another 10 British vehicles. Morgan 4/4 The 4/4 has been produced by the Morgan Motor Company since 1936 and the current styling was introduced on the Mk2 in 1955. All 4/4 models are fitted with a ford 4 cylinder engine and manual gearbox and is still in production. the 4/4, like other Morgan models is made with traditional methods of using a wooden frame made from ash and then covered in an aluminium skin. This means all Morgan's are hand made and no two cars are identical, and can be fully personalised by the first owner. They have proven very popular both here and abroad and currently the waiting list goes into years rather than months. JCB Founded in 1945 by Joseph Cyrill Bamford, JCB was been producing a variety of earth moving, agricultural, construction, waste moving and demolition machinery which is renowned across Europe and other parts of the world, and a most famous for their bright yellow/orange digger and tractor range. JCB also broke the land speed record in their Dieselmax land speed record vehicle which clocked a speed of 350.092mph. Land Rover Series models The series Land Rovers were the first mass produced civilian 4 wheel drive vehicle with doors fitted and started production in 1948 to be a competitor at the successful yet 2 wheel drive Willy's Jeep. There were 3 Series variants built between 1948-1985 and all were available is a short wheelbase, long wheelbase, pickup, convertible and modified variants for different uses such as in cherry pick or recovery vehicle form. The series Land rovers proved an instant success both with farmers and the British military and as such helped Land Rover to build a reputation of building "go anywhere" vehicles. MGA Launched in 1955 the MGA replaced the TF-Midget and became an instant success in America and other export markets selling over 101,000 units. Of those fewer than 6,000 cars were sold to UK buyers making it one of the least sold cars at the time on the UK market. Engines came either as a 1500cc or 1600cc and a twin cam model was available. The MGA also proved to be very competitive in motorsport where it has won multiple regional and National events in the USA and was entered into the 1955 Le Mans race where two cars finished 12th and 17th. AEC Matador/Marshall The Matador was a lorry built by Associated Equipment Company between 1938-1953 and was available as a 4x2 or 4x4 configuration and distinctive due to its flat front, radiator grill and cured roof. A 6 wheeled version was also produced known as the Marshall but its design was the same. In civilian use the Matador proved very successful as a tow truck, in forestry work, construction roles but the Matador is most famous due to its invaluable service during the Second World War where it was used for troop transport, tanker roles, supply transport as well as an artillery tractor. Range Rover Classic The Range Rover was the first executive vehicle from Land Rover and notably the first executive four wheel drive vehicle, which combined Land Rovers off-road capabilities but the luxuries of an executive saloon car. Built between 1969-1996 it became an instant hit in the UK and America and was available either as a 2 door or 4 door with a V8 or later a diesel engine. Jaguar XJS The XJS was designed to be the replacement for the very popular E-Type and available as a coupe or convertible, the latter came much later during production. Designed to be a grand tourer the XJS was built between 1975-1996 with engines ranging from V6 through to V12, the latter being the first true mass produced V12 engine in a production car. Despite not looking as pretty as the E-Type, it certainly is a design that looks better with age. The last role of the dice for the XJS was when Ford owned both Jaguar and Aston Martin, of which Ford used the XJS chassis and bulkhead on the Aston Martin DB7. Rover BRM LE Named after Rovers BRM race car the Rover BRM was based on the Rover 200 3 door family hatchback but featured a British Racing Green paint job, red quilted leather, alloy wheels, sports suspension, alloy gearknob and other alloy interior trim plus an orange grill surround and fitted with Rover's 1.8 K-series engine and reportedly faster, with better handling than the MG ZR which was also a sportier version on the 200 bodyshell. With only 1,145 examples ever built it is now a very rare and future classic. Land Rover Defender The Defender was the successor of the Series 3 Land Rover and was also known as the 90, 110 or 130 dependent on chassis length. Built between 1983-2016 the Defender was able to build on the reputation of the former Series models and proved popular with the British military, farmers and general members of the public who had recognised the Defender as a UK cult vehicle. It has also been described as a classless vehicle as it has the ability to blend in on any street and have been driven from all walks of life. Even the Queen owns one. It could be argued the last iconic Land Rover which has a loyal following. DeLorean DMC-12 The DMC-12 is the only British car to be built in Northern Ireland between 1980-1982 and was devised by John DeLorean who was a former General Motors designer. With a chassis designed by Lotus, a stainless steel body with gullwing doors and a 2.8 V6 petrol engine, on paper the DMC-12 had the makings of a supercar. Unfortunately it wasn't to be due to quality control issues, poor vehicle performance and a drugs scandal surrounding John DeLorean, it left the company in tatters after only 2 years of making cars. The cars biggest claim to fame was in Back to the future when Doc Brown builds a time machine out of a DeLorean. Does it count? This is one I want our readers to decide on and let us know in the comments whether you think the ZS can be considered quintessentially British. MG ZS The MG ZS was based on the Rover 45 which technically was a Honda design with Rover influences which was down to Rover/Hondas partnership in the later 80s/early 90s. The last of the line ZS models were aimed towards younger buyers thanks to its pearlescent paint finishes, large spoilers, side air vents and bodykits which fitted right in with the Maxpower era and ultimately did help boost sales. Along with engines which ranged from the 1.8 K-series engine through to the 2.5 V6 engine found in the bigger Rover 75/MG ZT. Overview I hope you've enjoyed reading this 3 part installment on quintessentially British vehicles as much as I have enjoyed compiling them.

Steve runs through another selection of vehicles which defines Britain. Triumph Dolomite Sprint Launched in 1972 until 1980 the Dolomite Sprint was a performance saloon car designed to be the BMW M3 of its day. Fitted with a 1.8 litre 4 cylinder 127bhp engine and 4 speed gearbox with optional over drive and double wishbone suspension it was a great little machine but fragile. As you'd expect it also had success in racing, winning the Touring Car drivers championship in 1975. It also takes the credit of being having the first multi valve mass produced engine and to the engine credit, a version of it was still being used by Saab up until it went into receivership. Green Goddess - Bedford RLHZ The Green Goddess is a fire engine built by Bedford on their RL platform for the Auxiliary Fire Service after the Second World War between 1953-1956 and were kept in reserve by the Home Office up until 2004. In 1977 and 2002 the Green Goddesses saw action under the command of the Army during the Fire Service strikes. The Green Goddess was finally retired in 2004 when the Fire and Rescue Service Act was passed forcing Fire Services to make their vehicles available for use even when staff are on strike. However, that was not the end of the story as a lot of the Green Goddesses were shipped to Africa for fire Service duties. Rover SD1 The SD1 was an executive car built between 1976-1986 to replace the Rover P6 that featured styling allegedly taken from the Ferrari Daytona and was the last true rover to be built at the Solihull plant. The styling was praised both by the press and public as well as having a good variety of engines in 4 cylinder, 6 cylinder or 3.5 V8 variety meant the SD1 proved popular with fleet customers and police Forces. On one occasion a SD1 carrying a liver from Stanstead airport to Cromwell Hospital in Kensington completed the 27 mile journey across London in 30 minutes. The SD1 was also used successfully in both British Touring Cars and British Rally Championships during the 1980s. Rover 75/MG ZT Another Rover, this time the last large MG/Rover car to be built in the UK The Rover 75 and sportier looking variant the MG ZT were designed by BMW for the executive car sector, and was available with a 4 cylinder, 6 cylinder or Ford Mustang 4.6 V8 and was built between 1999-2005 up to the point MG/Rover went into receivership. Three body styles were offered which included saloon, estate and long wheel base also known as the Vanden Plas which was 200mm longer in the rear passenger compartment. this model proved popular with the British Government and was used by the then Prime Minister Tony Blair. A MG ZT-T (estate) managed to break the land speed record for non production estate car reaching a top speed of 225.609mph. AEC Routemaster Just like the FX4 Taxi mentioned on our first quintessentially British vehicles list, another strong symbol of Britain is a red Routemaster double decker bus which were a pioneering design when launched, and a common sight in London from 1956 up to their withdrawal from public service in 2005. such is the Routemasters popularity with the British public is featured in a list of top ten of British design icons along side the Mini and Concorde. Austin Healey The Austin Healey is a sports car built by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) between 1959-1967 across 3 versions and ceasing production when BMC ceased trading. The Healey was available either a 2 seater or 2+2 with the most popular engine of a 3.0 litre. The Healey proved very popular in America with 91% of the Healey models being exported there. it also found success in circuit racing in the UK, Australia and America. Triumph Stag Yet another convertible graces our list but this one is both pioneering yet controversial. The Stag is a 4 seater convertible which was also fitted with a metal hard top giving the impression of a coupe. the car was pioneering for the T top roll over bar design which allegedly saved the convertible car market in the USA which at the time was under threat from being banded due to roll over safety concerns. The Stag was mainly available with a V8 engine to cater for the American market but this was to be the cars biggest drawback. The engines were notorious for overheating and having the cylinder head weld to the block due to excessive heat amongst other issues, but non the less it has developed a cult following in the UK due to its practicality and gorgeous design. Ford Escort Compared to the other vehicles on this list I have collectively included all Ford Escort variants within this list. The Escort was a economy family car built between 1968-2004 over 6 generations and was available as a hatchback, saloon, estate, van and disabled access vehicle. The Escort managed to claim the title of Britain's most popular car away from British Leyland's 1100. Not all models were based on economy car ethics though, as various sporty models were offered such as the RS1600, RS1800, Mexico, RS2000 and RS Cosworth to name but a few. The Escort also proved it self to be a very competitive rally car and the Mk1/Mk2 were the most successful. MGB GT The successor to the MGA the MGB was available as a coupe known as the MGB GT, roadster MGC and performance model known as the MGB V8 and were built between 1968-1980 but did make a comeback by Rover from 1992-1995 as a limited edition roadster V8 known as the RV8. The MGB was pioneering as it was one of the first cars to incorporate crumple safety zones into its design. The MGB was also successful in racing and notably one the 1000 miles guards race at Brand Hatch in 1965. Jensen Interceptor The Interceptor was a grand tourer built by Jenson in Birmingham between 1966-1976 in mk1, 2 and 3 which were available either as a hatchback, coupe or convertible. All Interceptor models were fitted with Chrysler V8 engines mated to a 4 speed manual or 3 speed automatic gearbox and were well equipped for their day, benefitting from electric windows, power steering, radio plus 2 speakers and a wood rimmed steering wheel all as standard with options of air conditioning or anti lock brakes. The latter, made the interceptor the first car in the world to have a form of anti lock braking system (ABS). The interceptor was the first production car to be fitted with a four wheel drive system and traction control. Overview I hope you enjoyed the second installment of our quintessential British vehicles series and don't be disappointed if your favorite didn't make the list as there will be a third and final installment.

Steve runs through a selection of vehicles which defines Britain Mini A true motoring icon, the Mini was designed to be an economy family car by Austin and Rover between 1959-2000. It was fitted with a transverse engine which allowed for 80% of the vehicle space to be used for people and luggage. But also had other innovative features such as rubber cones for the suspension which saved space along with being built as a monocoque which improved handling. The Min came about due to the threat of competition from other manufactures bringing small cars to Britain such as the Fiat 500 and the Bubble car. The Mini managed to win the nations heart, not only by being very successful in rallying, even winning the Monte Carlo Rally but it also appeared in the cult classic film the Italian Job. This cemented our love affair with the Mini. Jaguar E Type Enzo Ferrari described the E Type as the most beautiful care ever made and he wasn't wrong, the body was exquisite craftmanship. it wasn't just a fancy body on rubbish mechanicals either as the E Type was built as a unity construction, V12 petrol engine which could hit 150mph and was actually based on Jaguars successful D Type Le Mans racing cars which had run the race in 1955, 1956 and 1957. Not only did the E type look prettier and out perform its rivals but what sealed the deal for most buyers was that it was cheaper too. When the E type saloon was deputed, there was such a demand for the car Jaguar had a test driver take a convertible version over to Geneva, driving on through the night to make sure it got there the following morning. It naturaly had a very successful production run being built between 1961-1975. Reliant Regal/Robin/Rialto The Reliant brand made some of the worlds most popular 3 wheeled vehicles from the 1940s right through until the year 2000. The Reliant pioneered using fibreglass to make the bodies for their vehicles along with galvanising the chassis which helped provide longevity for their products. Reliant also made their own aluminium engines Their popularity and cult status is in part thanks to a yellow Regal Supervan which featured in the TV series Only Fools and Horses. The Reliant 3 wheelers have a loyal following and friendly/social clubs. Aston Martin DB5 No list of British cars would be complete without including the Aston Martin DB5 which despite selling in limited numbers, came to fame due to its role in the James Bond 007 franchise. Roger Moore could be seen tearing round in the films with a DB5 full of futuristic gadgets such as elector seats, machine guns, smoke sprayer and the ability to drop oil slicks. One of the Bond DB5 cars was later used in the Cannonball Run film with Roger Moore behind the wheel. Due to demand the DB5 is back in production but with a limited production run. Morris Minor The Morris Minor also known as the Moggy Minor was the successor to the Morris 8 and made its depute in 1948 and remained in production until 1972 on which point over 1.6 million had been sold. The Minor was available in 2 door or 4 door saloon as well as convertible, van and as an estate known as the Traveler. Designed to be a family car the Minor was fitted with rack and pinion steering and independent suspension which was modern technology in 1948 and engines were either 1000cc or 1.1cc. the Minor bowed out of production thanks to competition with other British Leyland products such as the Mini and Austin 1100 proving more popular. However the Minor has proved popular with British culture thanks to its popularity and god looks. Bedford Val coach The Bedford Val was a 6 wheeled chassis designed by Bedford and with 4 wheel steering which was quite a novelty at the time. various coach builders built bodies for the chassis including Plaxton, Major Vega, Harrington and Dupel to name a few and were aimed at being an executive coach. They were also sold abroad to some Asian countries as well as Australia and New Zealand. Some of the coaches were used as race transporters most notably the Brabham race team had a Plaxton bodied version. However, the Coaches main claims to fame are in part due to two other British Icons, the Beetles and the film classic the Italian Job. The Beetles used a Plaxton bodied Val on their Magical Mystery Tour and in the Italian job a Harrington Legionaire coach is used as the get away vehicle to transport the 3 Minis. Austin/Carbodies/LTI FX4/Fairway Taxi The FX4/Fairway was built between 1958 and 1997 by Austin, then Carbodies and finally London Taxi International and became a symbol of Britain due to their popularity as Hakney carriages and affectionally known as the black cab. Offered with a variety of diesel engines over its life time the FX4/Fairway was replaced in 1998 with the LTI TX1 which along with its successors has managed to gain as much affection as its FX4 predecessor. Rolls Royce Silver Shadow Is still the best selling Rolls Royce model made between 1965-1980 in two versions the Shadow 1 and shadow 2, on which most found owners of Royalty or celebrities such as Freddie Mercury, Elton John and Keith Moon who famously drove his Silver Shadow into a swimming pool. The Silver Shadow was the first Rolls Royce to use unitary chassis and body construction which offered increased space. the car was powered by a v8 engine, automatic gearbox and hydropneumatics suspension which allowed it to waft down the road. Austin 7 The Austin 7 is truly the first British peoples car built between 1923-1939 and was sold as an economy known and known as the baby Austin and available as a saloon or convertible known as a tourer. It proved very successful both here and abroad and both Japanese car manufacturing and BMW both owe credit to this humble Austin as it was the first BMW car made under licence as well as being made under licence in japan after the Second World War. Also the 7 was used as the basis by Bruce Mclaran and Lotus for their first specials in racing. Overview I hope you've enjoyed looking through this list as much as I did creating it, but don't be disappointed if your favourite classic isn't on it, as there will be a sequel.

Steve takes a look at the first new Corolla model to grace our shores in over a decade. The Toyota Corolla, the world's most popular car. But with over a ten year absence on the UK market can the current model live up to its reputation? Exterior The styling of the new Corolla fits in nicely with the rest of the Toyota lineup including the Prius and the outgoing Auris, with it low nose and raked windscreen and thin LED headghlights make the Corolla appear to have come from a sci-fi program. The rear is quite bulbous thanks to a large rear boot lip but complimented with a large rear spoiler and finished off with alloy wheels. Visibility is very good but much like most modern cars thick C pillars obstruct the drivers view but generally the cabin feels airy. Interior Sliding into the interior, you'll find the seats supportive, especially the drivers seat which has lumbar support as standard. In addition the Corolla has plenty of leg and head space for both front and rear passengers and the boot is a very good size 361 litres but is slightly smaller on the 2.0 litre. the main issue I found with boot was the large bumper lip which would make it more difficult to get bulky items such as pushchairs in the car. As you'd expect from a Toyota the fit and finish of the cabin is superb with soft touch plastics, chunky controls and overall good materials being used. Furthermore, the equipment level is excellent with climate air conditioning, parking sensors, rear camera, 7" infortainment screen with Apple carplay/Android Auto, digital radio which provides a quality sound from the speakers, as well as Bluetooth, satnav all as standard. the dials are also clear to read and nicely laid out. On the road Engaging drive on the CVT gearbox the Corolla pulls away in electric mode which is silent and effortless, when the 1.8 petrol engine kicks in it is very quiet and is supported by low wind noise but road noise is prevalent. The engine on this model is the entry level unit producing 120bhp and a 0-62 time of 10.9 seconds which isn't as powerful or quick as its Ford Focus 1.0 litre 125bhp ecoboost rival but more the suitable for most scenarios. if you do want something more spritely then there is also a 2.0 litre 177bhp hybrid version which will fit the bill. The steering on Corolla is both light and positive making it easy to control and supported by brakes which have a good feel. The suspension is quite soft ironing out most lumps and bumps. The handling is geared more for relaxed driving rather than for exuberant driving. Overview The Corolla offers the traditional Toyota quality and technology with nice styling, however performance and handling falls short of some of its rivals such as the Ford Focus. Where I feel the Corolla will excel is in the fleet sector as hire cars or company cars.

Steve sets out to prove you can enjoy camping with a motorhome on a budget. Motorhomes are an ideal tool to see the world whilst having all your creature comforts with you, but they tend to be expensive. If you are a handy DIYer then here are a selection of budget vans (sub £2000) ideal for motorhome conversions. LDV Convoy/Pilot The Pilot and larger version, the Convoy were the last of the infamous Sherpa vans and were made between 1996-2006. Available as a van, hightop, or minibus, they proved popular with Royal Mail, motorhome conversions and schools and the low roof 17 seat minibus proved helped LDV take 60% of the minibus market share. Most models were fitted with PSA petrol or diesel engines which were either naturally aspirated or turbo charged and all engines are known for their dependability but can be sluggish, later models were fitted with just as dependable Ford engines. What further helped their popularity is that they were made in the UK and have a 15,000 service interval plus parts are easily obtainable, but be warned LDV built these vans from the parts bins of other manufacturers so you might have to do some searching when new parts are required. The payload of the Convoy ranges from 1,085kg - 1702kg which is good going and they're cheap to buy and in hightop minibus form are popular for DIY motorhome conversions. Bedford Rascal/Suzuki Super Carry/Daihatsu Hijet/Piaggio Porter The Bedford Rascal is a micro van sold between 1986-1993 and was also sold as a Vauxhall Rascal and Suzuki Super Carry all in effect the same vehicle and available as a van or minibus. All were fitted with a mid mounted 1.0 litre engine. They proved very popular and are ideal for narrow city streets. The design is so successful it is available brand new as a piaggio Porter. The payload capacity between all models ranges from 560-1120kg. You're probably wondering why a micro van is ideal for a motorhome, well a van this size can go to places large motorhomes just simply cant fit into. This is particularly ideal for narrow roads, or streets as found with very hold historic settlements. LDV Maxus Yet another LDV graces this article and technically the Maxus was the predecessor for the Convoy mentioned previously and was launched in 2004 and built in Birmingham up until 2009 when LDV went into receivership due to lack of funds from its parent company GAZ. The Maxus was fitted with a 2.5 Italian diesel engine with a 5 speed gearbox or 6 speed automatic and proved to be a popular van with UK buyers and received high ratings. What makes the Maxus ideal for motorhome conversions is that it was available in 3 different roof heights and 2 wheelbases. As well as being offered in 3 GVW of 2.8, 3.2 and 3.5 tons. The Maxus is back in production by the Chinese SAIC manufacture as the V80 which means body panels will be readily available. Ford Transit Mk6 2000-2006 The Ford Transit, Britain's most popular van and as such the most plentiful. Available in short wheel base, long wheel base, high top van and minibus, there's certainly plenty of choice for the DIY motorhome conversion. Most common engines are the 2.0 and 2.4 Duratorq diesel engines. the 2.0 litre is front wheel drive, where as the 2.4 is rear wheel drive both of which have a 15,000 mile service interval and both mated to a 5 speed gearbox. Dependent on model they can easily cope with a ton or two of weight which is ideal for any conversion. Transits generally hold their value, but parts are cheap, plentiful and should be cheap to insure. Iveco Daily Mk3 2000-2006 Just like the Transit from the same era the Daily is available in short wheel base, long wheel base, high top van and minibus, but is a more heavy duty van with plenty of choice for the DIY motorhome conversion. Diesel engine options range from 2.3-3.0 litres and mated to either a 5 or 6 speed manual gearbox or semi automatic gearbox dependent on body style. The Daily can carry anywhere from 2.8-6.5 tons so it'll cope with all motorhome fixtures and fittings without a doubt. Mercedes Vito For the £2000 budget early Mk2 models are available predominately with the 2.1 or 2.2 CDI engine and either a manual or automatic gearbox. The Vito is available in short or long wheelbase (Vario) but the former is more common. The Vito could be spec'd with a hightop but this appears to be rare, but poptop roofs are available if you require the extra height. Mechanically the Vito is a durable van but is prone to rusting, but no much so than other vans on this list.

Steve takes a look at the risks from sun damage from a forgotten source.... Whilst driving. How do you get sun damage? everyone is aware the damage the sun can do to your skin and how to protect it when out and about by using suncream. But getting sunburn whilst driving is often an afterthought for most motorists and when considered, you would naturally assume that convertible car drivers are mainly at risk. As much as this would be a correct assumption other drivers at high risk from increased sun exposure include van drivers, lorry drivers or bus drivers due to the amount of driving their jobs entail up to 21 hours of driving in some cases, compared to the average motorists 14 hours. In a recent survey conducted by confused.com, they found that 44% of van drivers admitted to getting a tan whilst driving, and 42% admitted to getting sunburnt whilst driving. Most motorists believe that their vehicles offer adequate protection from the suns UVA & UVB rays but this isn't the case and you can get burnt with the side windows either up or down. The only glass to offer protection from these rays is the windscreen because it is laminated. Tempered glass, as found on side windows, rear windows and sunroofs offer little or no protection at all. This explains why motorists will end up with the right side of their face/arms (left if you live in left hand rive countries) tanned or burnt compared to the left side which is away from direct sunlight. Protecting yourself and your passengers As a driver or front passenger the only real protection is to apply suncream on a regular basis, as well as wearing a peaked cap to protect your face and eyes. Finally an unpopular option, you can always cover up your arms with long sleeve clothing and use your air conditioning to keep you cool. However for rear passengers there are more options. some motorists would consider protecting rear passengers more important if transporting their precious cargo... the kids. to protect them you can have window tinting film applied to your side and rear window which in some cases can protect passengers from up to 99% of the UV rays. Tinted rear windows are standard on some vehicles and is a worth while option when protecting your skin is concerned. oh, and in case your wondering tinted windows do not obstruct your visibility but they are illegal for front window applications. In addition rear side window sun shades are available for most models of vehicle and are applied via suction cups. they are also available in various patterns/styles and can be available with your child's favorite TV/film character. One last thing Don't forget to protect your eyes from sun light by wearing sunglasses whilst driving as well as using your sunvisors. The eye can be damaged by the suns UV rays being absorbed by the eye lenses which over time can cause the eye to develop cataracts. in the worse cases sun expositor to the eyes can cause you to go blind.

Steve takes a look at the development of car suspension and the most common types found on vehicles. Leaf Springs Also known as cart springs, leaf sprung suspension comprises of a layer of rectangular metal bars, bent and attached at both ends to provide a spring effect as per the diagram above. It is very rudimentary yet durable and most commonly seen on pick up trucks or vans. This is partly due to increase the carrying weight of the vehicle but predominantly to help the vehicle achieve a cheaper tax class in certain counties. The drawback of this suspension is that it does not offer the same ride comfort of that as springs and damper suspension. Furthermore, the leaf springs can split due to wear and tear caused by age or corrosion. McPherson front Struts McPherson Strut suspension Has been the common suspension choice for manufacturers since the late 1960s. Comprising of the spring around a damper and fitted together within a unit which is bolted directly to the car it offers both good ride characteristics as well as reduced repair costs as the unit can be removed from the vehicle very efficiently. When this suspension is used on the front of vehicles the rear often comprises of a spring and damper which are fitted separately to one another band attached to the rear wheels and axel. As the suspension wears out, the springs can crack or snap due to corrosion and the dampers can start to leak hydraulic fluid. You can tell if a spring has snapped as the car will be lower to the ground on the side with the broken spring. Leaking dampers can affect the handling of the vehicle. Air Suspension Commonly used on commercial vehicles, executive SUVs, modified cars, 4x4 or executive saloon/estate cars air suspension comprises of 4 individual rubber airbags as apposed to springs and dampers. Depending on the vehicle it may be supported by additional dampers, mainly on estate cars or those designed for towing or carrying extra load capacity. The beauty of air suspension is that the driver can adjust the ride height of the vehicle at a touch of button, either to lower or raise the vehicle height depending on road conditions. The system works by compressed air being pumped into the airbags to improve ride comfort or adjust ride height. However, air suspension can be very complex and less durable than other types of suspension. Thus meaning, repair bills are often greater and can run over thousands of pounds to repair. You can often tell if there's a problem with your air suspension as the car will sit low to the ground or may not adjust its ride height. If it fails you will normally get a warning message on the dash. Hydropneumatic /Hydrolastic Suspension This used to be commonly found on Citroen's, Rolls Royce's and the occasional British Leyland car such as the princess this suspension setup uses a special hydraulic fluid to control the ride comfort and height of the vehicle. The system would often give a very smooth ride, likened to being on a magic carpet but could also be adjusted to give superb cornering abilities as found on the Citroen Xantia Activa family car. It allowed the Xantia to out manoeuvre a Porsche 911 from the same era. The difference between the two is that hydropneumatic spheres use a hydraulic fluid where as hydrolastic suspension uses a gas in the spheres. Despite it's fantastic qualities of both systems, they are prone to failing by leaks developing in the system or the spheres failing and resulting in large repair bills.

Steve takes a look at Exhaust Gas Recirculation Coolers. Exhaust Gas Recirculation Coolers and valve or EGR for short has become a dreaded talking point for diesel car owners in recent years, so what are they, how do they go wrong, and how can you prevent your EGR from failing. What is an EGR Cooler? It's purpose is to cool the exhaust gasses by passing it through cool air similar to a radiator. After being cooled the exhaust gasses a recirculated to the engine to cool the cylinders this reducing stress on the head gasket and exhaust valves which ultimately reduces the nitrous oxide emissions on diesel engines. Where Can I find the EGR Cooler EGR coolers are located directly on the engine and connected to the exhaust system. Does it go wrong? The short answer is yes, and can do so in various ways. 1. The gaskets can fail causing exhaust leaks. 2. The EGR can become blocked with carbo depositsvwgich flow through it along nwith the gases thus preventing the gases to flow properly. This can then cause the engine to overheat. 3. Engine Management Light comes on detecting fault 1 or 2 or because the EGR has another issue which may have caused the engine into limp mode. 4. Poor fuel economy because the cooler can't work efficiently. 5. Poor throttle response, again because the EGR is blocked. 6. Loss of coolant. 7. White smoke from the exhaust. Can it be cleaned? Yes it can but be warned it's a tedious job, and no guarantee it will be 100% effective at resolving the issue. But could save you thousands of it does! Is it easy to replace? The replacement of a EGR is a time consuming job but can be done by an experienced DIYer. Alternatively a garage can replace your DPF but be warned, the bills can run well over £1000 dependent on manufacturer. There are EGR delete kits available but, be aware that removing the EGR completely is currently a grey area in law, and they could make this illegal similar to DPF removal due to potentially increased emissions. If it is found to affect your car emissions for the worse then this will void your insurance/MOT.

Steve takes a look at Diesel Particulate Filters. Diesel Particulate Filters or DPF for short has become a dreaded talking point for diesel car owners in recent years, so what are they, how do they go wrong, and how can you prevent your DPF from failing. What is a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)? The DPF can be found on vehicles made from 2009 onwards which come under Euro 5 emissions standards. Its purpose is to reduce soot deposits from entering the atmosphere from the cars exhaust system. The DPF collects the soot within the filter and when it is at least 45% full the car will automatically carry out what is known as a regeneration of the DPF. The regeneration uses the heat from the engine/exhaust system to burn the soot, thus preventing it from entering the atmosphere. You will know when a regeneration is taking place as you may experience a higher idling speed, vehicle fans running, lower MPG or a burning smell from the exhaust. Where can I find the DPF? The DPF is located underneath the car on the exhaust system and looks like a cannister as per the picture below. Does it go wrong? The DPF can become clogged with soot and eventually stops working. this is often caused by the car not being used for long journeys which allow the engine to get up to full operating temperature, such as only being used for town driving only or short commutes of 10 miles or less. It is therefore important that a diesel car gets a good motorway run at least once a week to allow the engine to get to operating temperature so it can carry out a DPF regeneration. if the DPF has become blocked your car may develop a loss of power or go into limp mode as well as an engine management light illuminating on the dash. Picture below shows what the DPF light on most vehicles looks like. Can it be cleaned? yes it can and can be done in four ways, firstly by giving your car a good motorway run at least once a week for 30 minutes making sure it reaches full operating temperature. This form of regeneration is known as a passive regeneration. However your vehicle may do an active regeneration which involves the car pumping fuel into the engine thus increasing the heat of the exhaust and ultimately burning off the soot. Secondly, running DPF cleaning additives in your fuel to help keep it clear. The third way is getting a mobile DPF cleaning specialist to come and do a forced regeneration and clean of the DPF. The forth way is more time consuming and requires the DPF to be dismantled and physically cleaned. Is it easy to replace? The replacement of a DPF is a time consuming job but can be done by an experienced DIYer. Alternatively a garage can replace your DPF but be warned, the bills can run well over £1000 dependent on manufacturer. Also be aware that removing the DPF completely is illegal and fines can be upto £1000, plus it will void your insurance/MOT.

Steve takes a look at the 4 towbar options available in the UK with the pros and cons of each, to help you choose the right one for you. Towbars, are a very useful commodity on cars, not only for towing a trailer, caravan or boat but they can also be used to mount cycle racks and add extra strength to a vehicle in the case of a rear end shunt. Here are the 4 most common towbar types available: Fixed Flange Towbar Pros: Often the cheapest towbar style. Can be used with a cycle carrier even when towing. Tow ball can be upgraded to be used with AL-KO stabiliser. Pin system can be installed for towing plant trailers or generators. Can be used with height adjustable couplings, spacers or drop plates to adjust the towing height or clearances. Can be fitted with a bumper protection plate. Can be fitted with a butterfly step on commercial vehicles. Cons: Can interfere with parking sensors Can look unsightly compared to other Towbar options Both tow ball and electrics can be seen at all times on the vehicle. Detachable Flange Towbar Pros: Can be used with a cycle carrier. Tow ball can be upgraded to be used with Al-Ko stabiliser. Pin system can be installed for towing plant trailers or generators. When detached the tow ball won't affect parking sensors Cons: Detachable towbars are more expensive than their fixed counterparts. If you loose the neck attachment they are often expensive to replace. Fixed Swan Neck Towbar Pros: Look more sleek than the flange type towbar. Can be used with towbar mounted cycle carriers. Becoming increasingly popular both here and in Europe. Compatible with stabilisers. Less likely to interfere with parking sensors. Cons: More expensive than a flange type towbar. Cannot use cycle carriers whilst towing. Cannot fit couplings, steps or height adjusters on all variants of swan neck towbars. Detachable Swan Neck Towbar Pros: Can be removed making the vehicle appear to not have a towbar. When removed it will not affect rear parking sensors. Look more sleek than the flange type towbar. Can be used with towbar mounted cycle carriers. Becoming increasingly popular both here and in Europe. Compatible with stabilisers. Lock into place to prevent it from being stolen. Cons: Usually the most expensive type of towbar. Height cannot be adjusted. Tow balls cannot be changed. If you loose the neck they are expensive to replace. Less common Towbar types: Automatic Vertical Detachable Towbar This type of towbar allows the neck to be inserted vertically but when removed makes the towbar invisible. When installed it locks into place to prevent theft. Compact Detachable Towbars Made by Westfalia this type of towbar neck fits horizontally and also locks into place. Electric Swivelling Towbar Also made by Westfalia this type of towbar is electronically adjusted from inside the car. Automatic Horizontal Detachable Towbar Just like the vertical detachable towbar this is also invisible when the neck is removed and as the name suggests it's inserted horizontally. Pin System and Nut System Towbars Both are similar to a normal detachable towbar except being locked into place with a pin or but as apposed to a key. Overview I'm sure you'll agree there's a wide selection of towbars available to cater for all uses and budgets and I hope I've made it clearer for you when choosing your next towbar.

Steve takes a look at a small, yet vital component that every modern car has abd is crucial to smooth running of your engine. What is a Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor? A Mass Air Flow Sensor measures the flow of air entering the engine so inorder for the engine ECU to provide the correct amount of fuel when both the air and fuel mix within the cylinders. The MAF Sensor takes into account the quantity, quality abd temperature of the air to help with the correct amount of fuel. Thus, allowing the engine to run as smoothly as possible. Where can I find the MAF Sensor? The MAF sensor is located on your air intake system, often not far from your airbox and before the throttle body. There are two different types of MAF sensor as per the pictures, but they do the same job. Does it go Wrong? The short answer is yes, but when a MAF sensor starts to fail it will cause the vehicle's engine to run rough or have an erratic idle because the ECU cannot correctly determine how much fuel the engine needs to make the vehicle run correctly. It can also cause the engine to cut out when driving. Can it be cleaned? Yes it can be cleaned, but I would only recommend using MAF sensor cleaner as other cleaning products could damage the sensor. Be careful when you handle the MAF sensor as it is a delicate piece of kit. Is it easy to replace? Usually very easy to replace as the MAF sensor is screwed into the air intake system. Depending on the type of MAF fitted to your vehicle you may need to dismantle the air intake system, such as removing the airbox for example. This is a part that can be changed by someone with very little or no mechanical experience with a selection of conventional tools such as a screwdriver.

Adrian Flux supporting motorists With the UK in Corona Virus lockdown many people are asking what help their insurance provider can provide in these trying times. Adrian Flux insurance answers some questions regarding insurance during the pandemic. Is Adrian Flux still open for business? We are still available to take your calls and respond to emails. Our opening hours remain the same and you can still use the website to request policy changes and access policy information. Can I still change my motor insurance policy? Yes, we are still here to help with your queries or you can use MyAdrianFlux to access and change your policy along with other Motor Insurance providers. I have been advised to self isolate. Can I pause my motor insurance? It is a legal requirement to have valid car insurance unless your car is registered as off the road. Therefore we aren't able to “pause” your policy; it must be active or cancelled. Cars can be damaged by accident or fire and they can be targeted by thieves even when unused and parked on private property so you may find it cost-effective to convert to laid up insurance cover. If you take laid-up cover while you fine tune your Audi for the show season it will remain protected but the policies are cheaper because there is no third party risk. Doctors have advised me to self isolate. Am I still covered to drive? You will still be covered to drive but we advise against driving during the lockdown unless absolutely essential, especially if you are showing symptoms which could impair your ability. If you have concerns about your motor insurance, contact us on the dedicated line on: 0800 587 6323 or visit the Adrian Flux website to see more: https://customers.adrianflux.co.uk/covid19-faqs/

Steve takes a look at 4 mass produced amphibious cars Usually when you imagine an amphibious car you think of James Bond or in military use. We often forget that there are a limited selection of mass produced amphibious cars which you can buy and use daily if you wished. Dutton Surf Tim Dutton is currently the world's leading manufacturer of amphibious cars and gas been building them for over 30 years. It's therefore no surprise two of his vehicles have made the list. The Surf has the sensible, utilitarian mechanicals of the Suzuki Jimny including it's 1.3 petrol engine, 4 wheel drive system and even the interior. The Surf can accommodate four passengers in SWB or 6 with the LWB. The top speed for the Surf is 6mph but that won't stop you having fun. On the road the Surf will drive similar to a Jimny and with 4 wheel drive it makes it easier to enter/exit the water. Gibbs Aquada Easily, the most expensive, yet most pretty car on this list the Gibbs Aquada certainly isn't cheap. But it is the only fast amphibious sports car which is powered by a 125bhp Rover engine that can go over 100mph on the road and 30mph in the water, fast enough to pull a water skier behind. Compared to the others on this list the Aquada has a high top speed in water thanks to it's deep V hull and employing water jet propulsion rather than a propeller. Amphicar No amphibious car list is complete without an Amphicar! The Amphicar is really the world's first mass produced amphibious car and still the most successful selling 4000 cars but a rare sight today thanks to it's tendency to rust. The top speed of the Amphicar in water was 6mph, definitely built more for cruising inland water ways than speeding along. They proved more popular in the USA than in Europe but they do have a loyal following. Despite having the same top speeds as the Reef and Surf on the water, the Amphicar unfortunately doesn't drive as well on the roads like it's modern counterparts. However it certainly looks prettier! Dutton Reef Unlike the Surf, the Reef is 2 wheel drive only and shares it's underpinnings from the humble mk7 Ford Fiesta, including the headlights and interior. The body is bonded fibreglass making it a monocoque design. Just like the Amphicar and the Surf the Reefs top speed is also 6mph, but you don't need speed to have fun on the water. On the road the Reef will drive very similar to a conventional Ford Fiesta and could be used on a daily basis.

Steve takes a look at a selection of retro inspired vans which are either still in production or have ceased production in the last few years It's obvious vans are designed to carry a variety and a lot of stuff efficiently, but a van also has another crucial yet often forgotten role. For business owners, vans are moving billboards for their businesses. It cannot be denied that most new vans look similar to one another making it hard to stand out. However, I've found a selection of vans that will certainly stand out from the crowd. Piaggio Porter The Piaggio Porter is a micro van which started out in life as the Bedford Rascal, Vauxhall Rascal and Suzuki Super Carry which are all in effect the same vehicle. All were fitted with a mid mounted 1.0 litre engine including the new Porter. The Porter has proved very popular in Italy and is ideal for narrow city streets and has proven to be a very successful design. The payload capacity between all models ranges from 560-1120kg, and it's available as a van, minibus, tipper, dropside or chassis cab. Piaggio have really catered for all. Brazilian Volkswagen T2 Transporter It may come as a surprise to know that the infamous T2 Transporter was in production in Brazil untill 2015. This meant the T2 outlived it's next two successors the T25 and T4. It also ceased production the same year the T5 did in Europe, but the T5 is still being produced in Mexico by Dodge, but this is a side point. Just like the 1970s Transporter the Brazilian version looks almost identical. The key differences include a radiator grill in the front to accommodate for the 1.4 water-cooled petrol engine in the rear. The same engine which was in the Polo and Fox, therefore parts are readily available and it'll be fuel efficient. Also the roof line is slightly boxier and different front bumper. Believe it or not the Brazilian T2 is more common then you'd think thanks to various companies importing them. The payload is 780kg and mpg from the 1.4 petrol you can expect 30mpg. Mercedes Vario Easily the largest van on this list, the Vario is the daddy of retro looking vans, weighing around 3500kg and Snap-On's van of choice and manufactured between 1996-2013. Those who know your Mercedes vans will know that the Vario looks very similar to a former Mercedes van, the TN Transporter, but one that's been on steroids. its actually the successor to the Mercedes T2 and has proven popular as minibuses for private and public use. It is also available in other body variants such as crewcab dropside, dropside, luton, tipper and van with cherry picker attachment to name but a few. Post 2000 models are fitted with a 4.2 litre turbo diesel engine which is available in various power outputs dependent on the body style and offered with a 5 speed manual or automatic gearbox with mpg figures of around 20mpg. as you'd expect with a van of this size the payload is impressive at 4.4 tons and a load volume of 17.4 cubic metres. Due to the vans versatility it has been popular with emergency services, postal services such as UPS Piaggio Ape The Ape is definitely the smallest van in this lineup and some would argue it's not a van at all. What cannot be denied is it's success in Italy where it is regularly seen traversing narrow city streets or winding it's way around remote villages. Fuel efficiency is guaranteed as the Ape is powered by a 50cc moped engine, but don't be fooled as it can cope with 675kg! The UK it has proven popular as mobile coffee outlets but its suitable for a variety of tasks. Citroen H Van Technically this is a conversion kit which an be installed on a Peugeot Boxer but totally transforms the appearance, for the better I say! Unlike other retro styled vans with this option you will have the benefit not the most up to date safety features, and the second largest retro inspired van after the Mercedes Vario on the market with a payload between 1,125kg to 1,570kg. The engines will up be bang up to date with emissions and fuel economy which is a further bonus. Overview I hope I've inspired you to consider a retro van for your business and to show a glimpse of the varied selection of retro vans that are out there.

Steve takes a look at a selection of classic vans which are still suitable for daily use It's obvious vans are designed to carry a variety and a lot of stuff efficiently, but a van also has another crucial yet forgot role. For business owners, vans are moving billboards for their businesses. It cannot be denied that new vans are getting more complex, and thus more expensive. But there is a way that businesses can still get the publicity from older vans which have cult status, retro status or cool factor whilst also benefitting from simplicity and thus easier maintenance you can do yourself. This list is designed to get you noticed and I have tried to cater for all aspects of vans for varying businesses. Ford Transit mk3-5 The Ford Transit, Britain's most popular van and as such the most plentiful. For argument sake and in the essence of fairness for this list I thought I'd highlight the Mk2 Transit which was manufactured between 1986-2003. The MK2 Transit is available in short wheel base, long wheel base, hightop and dropside/flatbed. Various engines are included 3 diesel engines of 95, 100 and 115ps abd 2.0 or even 2.9 litre petrol engines. Mpg can range from 25-35mpg depending on the engine and wheelbase. Mercedes TN Transporter No I haven't got this wrong, Mercedes did launch a model with the same name as Volkswagen, but they couldn't have been more different. The TN was built between 1977 - 1995 with model designations of 207, 208, 307, 308 and 410. Just like it's successor the Sprinter, the TN is available in short or long wheel basis along with a high top, minibus and flatbed/dropside. Engines arange from 2.0 to 3.0 litre in petrol or diesel forms with various outputs depending on the wheelbase chosen. Mpg usually ranges between 25-30mpg. Volkswagen T25 Transporter Launched in 1978 and ceased production in 1992 in Europe the T25 was the last rear engined Transporter. Just like the Mercedes, the T25 is available as a van, minibus or dropside. The last T25 rolled off the production line in South Africa in 2002. Being rear engined it means the T25 has light steering bwhich is ideal when driving or parking. Initially offered with a 1.6 or 2.0 litre air-cooled engine and then later with a 1.9-2.1 litre petrol or 1.6/1.7 diesel water cooled engines. Be prepared for poor mog though out of the petrol engines at 15-20mpg is the norm. Payloads for the van range from 885-995kg. Reliant Regal/Robin Don't laugh, here me out on this one. Seriously now stop laughing, the Regal/Robin vans do have their merits. For one they are fibreglass so the body won't rust, unlike a Mercedes sprinter/Vito and only having 3 wheels makes the Reliant very fuel efficient with up to 40mpg from.the 0.7 litre engine. Plus being very small makes it ideal for old city streets. As with it's inherent size, it naturally won't carry a lot of stuff but the cult status will get your business noticed far better than a large van. Fiat Ducato/Alfa AR6 The Ducato was launched in 1981 and ran untill 1993 and came in a variety of weight capacities ranging from 1 ton to 1.8 ton. The Ducato is available with two four cylinder engines, a 2.0 petrol or 1.9 diesel. For even more exclusivity the Italians got the Ducato style van with an Alfa Romeo badge. Known as the AR6 was only available in Italy, which ceased production in 1986 and was the last Alfa Romeo commercial vehicle. Payload is 1000kg-1300kg abd mpg figures range between 20-35mpg. Bedford Rascal/Suzuki Super Carry The Bedford Rascal is a micro van sold between 1986-1993 and was also sold as a Vauxhall Rascal and Suzuki Super Carry all in effect the same vehicle. All were fitted with a mid mounted 1.0 litre engine. They proved very popular and are ideal for narrow city streets. The design is so successful it is available brand new as a piaggio Porter. The payload capacity between all models ranges from 560-1120kg. Talbot Express The Talbot Express was the last Talbot badged vehicle and proved very popular here in the UK. Based on the Fiat Ducato which has been previously mentioned, the Express was built between 1982 - 1994. All models are fitted with Peugeot/Citroen (PSA) transverse engines ranging from 1.8-2.5 in petrol or diesel form. The payloads for the Express range from 1000-1300kg. The MPG figures are around 23mpg for a petrol engine and 38mpg on a long run on a diesel. Brazilian Volkswagen T2 Transporter It may come as a surprise to know that the infamous T2 Transporter was in production in Brazil untill 2015. This meant the T2 outlived it's next two successors the T25 and T4. It also ceased production the same year the T5 did in Europe, but the T5 is still being produced in Mexico by Dodge, but this is a side point. Just like the 1970s Transporter the Brazilian version looks almost identical. The key differences include a radiator grill in the front to accommodate for the 1.4 water-cooled petrol engine in the rear. The same engine which was in the Polo and Fox, therefore parts are readily available and it'll be fuel efficient. Also the roof line is slightly boxier and different front bumper. Believe it or not the Brazilian T2 is more common then you'd think thanks to various companies importing them. The payload is 780kg and mpg from the 1.4 petrol you can expect 30mpg. MG Express/Rover Commerce The MG Express/Rover Commerce is the first and only car derived van on our list. The MG Express was based on the MG ZR and as such benefitted from the MG lovely cosmetic styling but is very rare with only 317 examples made it certainly will get you noticed. The Rover Commerce was in affect just a Rover 25 and nearly just as rare. They were available with four 4 cylinder engines which include a 1.3 litre 103 or 1.8 litre 160ps k series petrol engines and 101/113ps L series diesel engines. Certainly the more stylish looking car derived vans in my opinion. LDV Convoy/Pilot The Pilot and larger version, the Convoy were the last of the infamous Sherpa vans and were made between 1996-2006. Available as a van, hightop, minibus or dropside, they proved popular with Royal Mail, motorhome conversions and schools and the low roof 17 seat minibus proved helped LDV take 60% of the minibus market share. Most models were fitted with PSA petrol or diesel engines which were either naturally aspirated or turbo charged and all engines are known for their dependability but can be sluggish. What further helped their popularity is that they were made in the UK and have a 15,000 service interval plus parts are easily obtainable, but be warned LDV built these vans from the parts bins of other manufacturers so you might have to do some searching when new parts are required. The payload of the Convoy ranges from 1,085kg - 1702kg which is good going and they're cheap to buy. Overview I hope I've inspired you to consider an old-school van for your business and to show a glimpse of the varied selection of retro vans that are out there.

Steve aims to find out whether the Ford Tourneo Connect is a good used MPV purchase by driving a 2017 1.5TDCI Zetec model. The Tourneo connect is technically the passenger carrying version of the second generation transit connect and deputed in the UK in 2014. The Tourneo connect shares its underpinnings with the Ford Focus and is aimed at competing against rivals such as the Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Rift and other similar sized vans. Exterior Compared to its predecessor and current rivals Ford have tried to make the Tourneo look less boxy by having long headlights, a large raked windscreen and a short bonnet which is set low which helps with the vehicles aerodynamics. The bumpers and side cladding on the Zetec trim is bare plastic which will help protect the Tourneo from inevitable bumps and scrapes. Furthermore, the Tourneo connect is fitted with sliding passenger doors on both sides which make climbing in a doddle. The second row seats fold and slide allowing access to the 3rd row of seating. Climbing in can be interesting, and even though a 6 foot adult can do it, it is reminiscent of climbing into the back of a three door car. The boot is a conventional hatchback type, and naturally large which will require space when opening. Interior Being based on a van, you can guarantee there is plenty of head and leg space both for front and 2nd row seat passengers, however 3rd row space is more limited and long legged passengers may find it not as comfortable. The boot is a reasonable size too when the 3rd row seats are in use and can take a weekly shop or pushchair - just. This limited space is no different to other MPVs such as the Citroen C4 grand Picasso and Renault Grand Scenic. With the 3rd row folded the boot size is carnivorous and can accommodate large cargo with ease as well as an array of storage compartments including under the floor, above the drivers head and in the side panels. The interior is mainly made of hard plastics, which will be hardwearing and ideal for family abuse and overall fit and finish is better than most of its rivals. Despite the Tourneo's versatility a key drawback I have found is the lack of support in the seat, especially for longer drives, the 2nd row bench seat can take 3 adults comfortably and the 3rd row seats are two separate items where again two adults can sit side by side. one thing to watch is the 2nd row seatbelts retracting, as they have been known to not retract properly and getting caught in the sliding door mechanisms. Over time this damages the seatbelt and looks similar to a dog chewing them. if you find the Tourneo Connect you are looking at then get this replaced by the seller as its a £500 job at Ford. The equipment level is decent too with Bluetooth, DAB radio, CD player, aux connection, electric front windows and electric mirrors as standard on the entry level Style model. Air conditioning is standard on Zetec models, Titanium models can also benefit from a panoramic sunroof. On the road The 1.5TDCI in this Tourneo is the more common engine choice but there is also a 1.0 litre ecoboost petrol if you prefer. This 1.5TDCI engine is very economical with an official figure of 61.4mpg and 120g/km CO2 and is mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox. as you can probably predict the Tourneo isn't designed to be quick but acceleration is acceptable. It will sit on the motorway at 70-80 comfortably but could benefit from a 6th gear to reduce the engine noise. on country roads there is some body roll which is inevitable with a tall vehicle such as this. Also on rough roads the Tourneo Connect has a tendency to fidget and over certain large bumps it crashes over them rather than absorbing the bumps. Despite its size the wind and road noise was less than I anticipated but not as reduced as some other MPVs. Thanks to large windows and mirrors the Tourneo Connect is easy to drive and park which is also helped by light steering. The brakes are very sharp which is great on a vehicle of this size when bringing it to a stop, but I found at low speeds the brakes could be a little snatchy. Overview Overall, I feel the Toureno Connect is an MPV which offers plenty of space, economy and versatility at reasonable price, however being van based it is less refined then other conventional MPVs but if you can overlook this then you will find it to be adequate for family transport, or taxi use. Selection of Ford Tourneo Connect for sale

Steve takes a look at a selection of vehicles that he feels are best suited for dogs. It cannot be denied we are a nation of dog lovers, and 26% of Britain's currently own at least one dog. As such I feel it important to highlight a selection of vehicles which have been designed with the transport of your canine companion in mind and I have tried to cater for most budgets. Nissan X Trail The current X Trail can be equipped with a pet pack Nissan call 4dogs. The pack transforms the boot into a comfortable compartment for your dog. Included in the pack is a wipe down interior, fold away ramp, shower, dog bowl, spill free water bowl, a boot camera with audio link so you can see and talk to your pooch on the journey, harness hook and a drying system that blows warm air into the boot. Land Rover Freelander Mk1 Despite the youngest mk1 Freelanders being 14 years old Land Rover were ahead of their time when designing the Freelander as it vehicle was graced with a boot window that could be lowered so that your dog could have fresh air either on the move or whilst left in the vehicle. Not bad for a vehicle that made us depute in 1997. Jaguar F Pace Much like Nissan's pet pack, Jaguars pet accessories also convert the 650L boot into a nice dog transportation system which just like the Nissan includes wipe down interior, fold away ramp, shower, dog bowl, spill free water bowl. Skoda Superb Estate Despite no pet packs being available for the Superb it has still made the list due to it's low boot entry and flat floor, combined with 660 Litres of boot space makes it ideal for your dog. Furthermore the superb is very ice handling car which will make the journey more pleasant for you and your dog. Aston Martin DBX The DBX is Aston Martins first attempt at an SUV and is available with a petpack which includes a bumper protector, partition to transport to dogs in comfort as well as a wipe down interior and portable shower. Dacia Logan MCV Dacia has really made a name for itself in recent years with economical motoring and the Logan MCV is no exception. The robust interior should stand up to punishment from even the most energetic of dogs and they'll have ample space as the boot as a respectable 573 litres. Land Rover Discovery Sport Yet another Land Rover has made it into this list and much like it's Freelander predecessor the Discovery Sport also caters for dogs. The Disco is available with a pet pack which includes a boot that can take 981 litres, a folding ramp which can cope with 85kg abd a 6.5 litre portable shower. I appreciate the picture depicts a Range Rover but the pet accessories are the same. Mercedes E Class W213 Just like the Skoda, the E Class has a carnivorous boot that will take 670 litres. Furthermore the E Class has great roadholding which is ideal when transporting the most travel sick of dogs. Peugeot Rifter I know some will argue that the rifter technically is more related to a van than a car, what cannot be denied is it's ability to transport a dog in comfort thanks to 771 litres of boot space and lower boot floor. There's even an array of storage compartments for your assortment of doggy accessories. Volvo V70 Mk2 Launched in 2007 and ended production in 2016 the V70 is a very capable hauler thanks to it's 575 litres of boot space and lower entry make it ideal for dogs. Chrysler Grand Voyager MK2 I'll appreciate this is an oddball but one you should consider if you need to transport 7 people plus a dog. The Grand Voyager offers van like space but with the luxuries of an executive car. The boot can hold 756 litres with all 7 seats in situ which is very impressive when you consider that you couldn't swing a cat in the boot of the Citroen C4 Grand Picasso, Renault Grand Scenic and even the Ford Galaxy when the 3rd row of seats are in use as they take up most of the boot space. Ford Focus mk4 Estate Despite not being ba large estate car the Focus is still capable of transporting your dog with reasonable comfort thanks to 608 litres of boot space and an adjustable boot floor. I hope this list has helped you when choosing your next dog friendly car. Thanks for reading.