Nice New Vauxhalls

Vauxhall has done it again! As a leader in exceptional styling, performance and efficiency, the Vauxhall Astra has another unique, even luxurious design: the Twin Top. This convertible sedan offers that sporty look not just because of the sleek design in its exterior trim and shape, but because it’s a convertible. Its roof is unique in that it’s actually three pieces of steel that separate and fold into the boot. That gives it the look of a full roof style car as well as the versatility of becoming a convertible. There are other design and engineering marvels that make this car a veritable prize to its owner.

The Vauxhall Astra Twin Top comes in 12 colors. Some of those color choices even have that pearlesque finish that makes it look even more expensive than it really is. There is an attention to detail in the look and feel of this car that conveys to a buyer that whoever built this car not only knows their business, but loves it. For a sedan, it has great fuel efficiency and roominess and for a sports car, it’s engine performance and the way it hugs the road speaks volumes for its impressive aerodynamics.

The real thrill would be to purchase this car right out of the “Build Your Own” program offered by Vauxhall. Then a buyer can really give it the customization that suits the new owner. Even if a buyer settles for the standard features of the Vauxhall Astra Twin Top, that’s an incredible package. It comes with the usual assortment of air bags in front and on the side, air conditioning is standard, as well as electrically operated windows. Down underneath it has an ABS braking system and electronic stability programme that’s standard with every Vauxhall Astra.

There will be those days when a driver just feels like taking a slow turn around the town and wants to exude the look of luxury and attract the looks of others in a comfortable sedan. That’s the sedate side of the Vauxhall Astra [http://www.drivevauxhall.co.uk/] Twin Top. There will also be days when a freer spirit takes the wheel, and let’s have a little show and speed. The top folds down, the stuffy suit coat comes off and the wind blows through the hair as the sporty convertible takes charge. Talk about living a double life! Not many cars can stand that test, but the Astra Twin Top has it mastered.

Pete J Ridgard

Vauxhall has long been a leader in innovative style as well as technology and the All New Vauxhall Astra lives up to the manufacturer’s commitment to that unparalleled blend of style and technology. Meeting and surpassing all ecoFLEX standards, this latest Astra even beats out the older Astra models in fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. One needs only to look at the sleek design to realize that this is going to be another of Vauxhall’s winning body styles and thoroughly modern for today’s market. Vauxhall has gone one better for the purchasing public in allowing the buyer to build his own Astra.

The buyer, in the “Build Your Own” program, practically customises the car to his or her own personal tastes. Although the All New Vauxhall Astra is essentially considered a 5 door hatchback model, there are many choices possible to customize this car. The first consideration or choice would be for the stylish trim. There are 6 possible choices on the “Build Your Own” web pages. This trim choice affects what the interior accessories will be together with the customized interior style. For the exterior, there are 11 color choices. Surely one of these colors and styles will suit any buyer.

The next choice available will be for the engine size. There are four engine sizes to choose from for the Vauxhall Astra. Depending on which engine size is chosen will determine the transmission choices that are available whether automatic, 5 speed or 6 speed. A person can choose a more lively performance vehicle or go for fuel efficiency. Either way that it is chosen, the All New Astra will probably be both a performance master as well as fuel efficient. Another aspect that’s not compromised by choice is that this vehicle is aerodynamically sound. That’s just standard with every Astra.

The next choice will involve the wheel style. The 17 inch, 10 spoke wheels have two styles to choose from. Then there are options for anything from tow packs to sound systems or even tyre pressure monitoring. With all of the Vauxhall innovations, the option for building your own Vauxhall Astra [http://www.drivevauxhall.co.uk/] is one more innovative option for the buyer to actually take part in the customising of the car with all of the features and accessories that make it feel like their own. The All New Astra is an exceptional car, but building it yourself lends a whole new meaning to ownership.

Pete J Ridgard

The car market may be slow to get back on its feet, but the job market seems to be seeing ‘green shoots of recovery.’ This should mean that soon the car market should be thriving again and the man with a van will become a more common sight.

Regarding choosing the right van if you’re a decision-maker, here is a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best vehicle for your purposes.

What will you use it for?

- City driving
- Long haul (mostly motorways)
- Large loads
- Off-road
- Transporting colleagues

For each of these uses, you would require a different type of van depending on the nature of your business.

City Driving
The Corsavan is perfect for city driving. It’s as small as a normal corsa therefore easy to park in towns where space is somewhat limited. Interestingly enough, it is rather spacious inside so it will comfortably fit two fully grown men in the seats. Exceptionally taller drivers (6ft 4″ tall +) may disagree with this statement.

Fuel efficiency is often a problem for city vehicles as constant gear changes and stopping and starting is not great for fuel consumption. If this is an issue, it is helpful to know that car-derived vans such as the Corsavan are well suited to such driving. The clutch and gearbox are likely to wear quickly from lots of gear changes that is unfortunately necessary with city driving. It is advisable that drivers be alert to changes in these parts that may signal that they may soon require replacing. Corsavans are not suitable for delivering bulky or heavy items but they’re perfect for moving small loads or for tradesmen working on smaller jobs and typically attracts favourable reviews.

Alternatives include the Daihatsu Hijet or the Piaggo Porter although they are poor alternatives as they are more like small trucks rather than vehicles designed for running around town. Radio stations have chosen Corsavans for their out and about vehicles as they are small, nippy and surprisingly spacious. If you need more space, the Astravan is a larger alternative but not an equivalent due to the vehicle not being small enough to be described as a city car.

Long Haul
In fact, the Astravan is more suitable for long haul journeys than it is going around the city due to the length of the vehicle making it harder to park in crowded city centres but owners of these vans will happily admit that they would choose an Astravan again and again. Not only is it complimented for having a comfortable cab that is on par with the typical domestic vehicle, it handles well and is cost-efficient. The 2009 Astra which the Astravan is based on has fantastic NCAP safety results for an adult which is a big bonus although the pre-2009 models received very respectable ratings. Still, if you are transporting smaller goods across the country, the Astravan is the sensible choice for fuel economy but realistically, a bigger van may be needed for the job. In which case, the next step up is the Vauxhall Vivaro.

Unfortunately, the Vivaro has attracted less glowing reviews compared to the smaller Astravan. Main faults appear to be a weak gearbox and various other complaints relating to bearings on older models. Yet, the Vivaro has won the top award for ‘Best Medium Van’ seven times since 2001 in the Van Fleet World Awards which is an impressive feat which could indicate that only a vocal minority have experienced real problems. Often hailed as roomy and comfortable, the Vivaro does appear to be a great contender for long drives when you require space. Reviewers report that the engine can be rather noisy but quietens down once fifth gear is selected which suggests that the vehicle was intended for motorway use.

However, if you are planning on hiring a vehicle like the Vauxhall Vivaro, please check your driving licence. Drivers who passed their test before January 1997 are entitled to drive this vehicle but drivers who have passed their test since January 1997 need to pass an extra test to add the C1 classification to their licence. The Vivaro and its bigger brother, the Movano both are capable of carrying large loads but very large loads should be left to specialist fleets e.g. HGVs.

Off Road
If you are intending to do a lot of agricultural work or mostly operate in the country, the Vauxhall Frontera is a good choice. For those who do not have deep enough pockets to cover the purchase of a Jeep or Land Rover, the Vauxhall Frontera is a sensible and logical choice. Vauxhall have not made the Frontera since 2004, but second hand models are available for good 4X4 entry level vehicle. The cab is set lower than traditional 4X4s which gives it reasonable side protection. Unfortunately, the 2002 model that was tested by Euro NCAP described pedestrian safety as “dire” and that child occupant safety was questionable. Adults fared better but driver safety was impaired with front passenger results being marginally better. 2003 models are often recommended. Similar vehicles for similar money would be up to five years older for the same money but alternatives include the Mitsubishi Shogun and the Ford Maverick.

Transporting Colleagues
If you work with one other colleague, any of the aforementioned vans are suitable for two people, possibly with the exception of the Corsavan for two exceptionally taller occupants. The Vauxhall Movano seats 3 passengers and similar vehicles include the Ford Transit and the Mercedes Sprinter.

Other questions you need to consider:

- How much can you afford? Businesses have been known to collapse due to unwise vehicle choices which also include road tax, servicing and insurance.
- How long do you expect to keep it? If you only need a van for a short term, it may be best to consider rental as you will not have to cover the cost of depreciation or servicing etc.
- Will the van be used for towing? In which case the Frontera or the Vivaro/Movano are the better choices but may require extra classifications being added to your driving licence.
- How much time will be spent in the vehicle? If you are intending to drive the vehicle for many hours then comfort should be a big consideration.
- If something goes wrong, do you know where you can take your vehicle for genuine Vauxhall van parts?