Latest News from Houndmills Autoplaza
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Civic Type R MUGEN 200
Posted on 17 Feb 2010
The Limited Edition Civic Type R Championship White Edition is almost sold out, since it went on sale just over a year ago, 578 have been registered with 12 to go.
However, we are delighted and very excited to announce the limited edition Civic Type R MUGEN 200 featuring exclusive MUGEN equipment that will go on sale from 1 April 2010.
Inspired by MUGEN Euro’s high performance Civic Type R Mugen, the MUGEN 200 is fitted with unique body parts, wheels and badges to give it stand-out looks. As its name suggests, only 200 of the special Type R models will be made.
On top of the standard features of the Type R GT, the MUGEN 200 will boast the following;
• Exclusive MUGEN front and rear bumper skirts
• 19 inch alloy wheels
• Mugen rear badge
• Mugen Limited Edition number plaque
• Limited Slip Differential
• Championship White exterior paint
• Gloss black door mirrorsThe order bank will open early March, when prices will also be announced.
This limited edition Type R continues the association between Honda (UK) and MUGEN Euro –the Northampton based subsidiary of Honda’s long standing tuning partner MUGEN. Last year, MUGEN used its 36 years of experience and engineering expertise gained at the forefront of global motorsport , to further develop the Type R, and create the Civic Type R MUGEN of which just 20 will be made. For more information, visit www.typermugen.com
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CR-Z PRODUCTION CAR REVEALED
Posted on 09 Feb 2010
Sporty hybrid coupe promises exciting driving dynamics
The all-new Honda CR-Z made its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. With sporty looks and agile handling, the CR-Z is the most exciting hybrid yet, promising driving thrills and cleaner exhaust emissions.
The CR-Z’s compact 2+2* coupe body and striking design is coupled with a responsive chassis to give nimble handling and direct steering, and a 6-speed manual transmission enhances driving enjoyment.
Its clean, efficient petrol-electric hybrid powertrain not only offers good fuel economy and a low exhaust emissions package, but also adds to the nippy driving characteristics of the car and means the CR-Z is well suited for use in urban environments.
• World’s first 6-speed manual hybrid car
• Wide track, short wheelbase chassis for agile and responsive handling
• All-new, sporty, aerodynamic, 2+2 coupe form
• 1.5 litre i-VTEC engine coupled to Honda IMA hybrid system
• Emissions of 117 g/km** and fuel economy of 56.4mpg**
• Unique 3-Mode Drive System to tailor steering, throttle response and IMA assistance as the driver requires
• Flexible 2+2 seating arrangement in European models only* 2+2 configuration is only available in the EU and Japan.
** EU Combined cycle. All figures preliminary and are subject to homologation.To download the complete PDF click here.
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MITSUBISHI MOTORS' i-MiEV AWARD
Posted on 09 Feb 2010
MITSUBISHI MOTORS' i-MiEV AWARDED WITH THE "ENVIRONMENT SPECIAL GRAND PRIZE" AT THE 25TH INTERNATIONAL AUTOMOBILE FESTIVAL IN PARIS
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has announced that its new -generation electric vehicle i-MiEV has been awarded with the “Environment Special Grand Prize” during the 25th International Automobile Festival held in Paris, France on February 4, 2010.
The i-MiEV was selected amongst 4 nominees each representing "concrete projects for sustainable mobility in terms of environmental protection or security" by a panel of 18 design, fashion, automotive and media luminaries.
As commented by Kiyoshi Teshima, President of Mitsubishi Motors France who received the award on behalf of Mitsubishi Motors Corporation: "This Grand Prize is a great honour and is a further incentive for our engineers to continue pursuing Mitsubishi Motors’ pioneering work in promotion of popularisation of alternative powertrains.”
Japan, the i-MiEV has already been on the market since July 2009 whilst production of export left-hand drive versions will start in October 2010. With zero CO2 tailpipe emissions and minimal well-to-wheel generation of CO2, MMC’s i-MiEV makes a valuable contribution to climate protection.
The i-MiEV is planned for European launch in the end of 2010, and its charging system will be compatible with European 220/240V household outlets, providing for a zero-to-full charge within an estimated maximum seven hours.
Since it was established in 1986, the International Automobile Festival has wished to promote the talents of designers, artists, men and women who are at the forefront of developments in the automobile industry.
Genuine Ford Parts Proven to be Better
Posted on 05 Feb 2010
Ford genuine parts come with reliability and warranty assurances, as well as being environmentally and safety verified, research shows.
The independent Motor Industry Research Association (MIRA) tested genuine Ford replacement body panels against copies. Copy parts are rarely produced to the same specification and tolerances as Ford's genuine article, meaning they are unlikely to last as long, may not come with a warranty, and can even be unsafe and environmentally unsound.
MIRA found that genuine Ford replacement parts were more resistant to corrosion and fitted better as the result of installation in Ford dealerships. In the case of a bonnet, the chances of pedestrian injury were increased when an inferior panel was fitted.
Ford is also active in the fight against parts counterfeiters, helping to stamp out a racket which costs the industry £10 billion a year.
"It is very scary to think what could happen if, for example, your car’s braking system was fitted with counterfeit parts," says Paul Muers, Ford Customer Service Division marketing manager. "It's a risk if work isn't entrusted to a franchised dealer. Going to a Ford dealer or Rapid Fit centre means only genuine parts are used.
“Genuine Ford Parts are made to the same standards as our vehicles and offer guaranteed Ford quality and serviceability. They are designed specifically for the vehicle, so fit better, work more effectively, are safer and last longer.”
The warranty offered on Genuine Ford Parts is among the best available: any new or exchange Ford or Motorcraft part which becomes defective due to faulty manufacture or materials will be repaired or replaced free of charge by a Ford dealer. This warranty applies for 12 months for most parts and even longer for replacement items such as clutch assemblies (24 months), batteries and exhausts (36 months).
Fitting and installation are covered by Ford standards which dealers and authorised repairers must meet and adhere to. The RAC also carries out regular, unannounced compliance checks to monitor quality.
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More great reasons to Drive a Mitsubishi Lancer
Posted on 29 Jan 2010
If you’re looking for a car which offers adventure, style and sophistication coupled with exceptional value for money, then look no further.
Inspired by years of success in world-class rallying, Mitsubishi have utilised their engineering expertise and created a sporty Lancer which will transform your motoring experience. Taking the state-of-the-art technology and reliable build quality they’re renowned for, the Japanese marque offers a high specification car with comfortable, spacious interiors to meet the needs and aspirations of any modern day family.
As one of the most generously proportioned vehicles in its class, the Lancer is perfect for those weekends away or family adventures. As with other Mitsubishi models it’s designed with passenger comfort and safety in mind and offers a driving experience that delivers total control at your fingertips, allowing you to concentrate on the road ahead while your passengers enjoy the ride. Most Lancer models feature cruise control and audio controls on the steering wheel, giving you command of your surroundings without lifting a finger.
Because your family is the most precious cargo you’ll ever carry, the Lancer features front, side, curtain and knee airbags and boasts a 5* NCAP rating†. Of course, there’s a spacious and versatile Lancer model to meet the diverse demands of every family. It’s available in a four-door Saloon, five-door Hatchback, or 237bhp Hatchback Ralliart and with specification levels which include leather seats, music server, and satellite navigation.
If all that’s not enough then Mitsubishi are offering a countdown deal for the new year which really is one not to be missed.In addition, Mitsubishi are not passing on the 2.5% VAT increase to its customers and will be holding list prices at the pre-VAT increase rates until 31st March 2010 (excluding L200 and Shogun & Outlander commercial vehicles).
The Lancer range offers exceptional value for money. The four-door Saloon is priced from £12,849 (1.5 SE with Bluetooth handsfree system, for a limited period only), five-door Hatchback from £14,849, or 237bhp Hatchback Ralliart from £21,649. And, as with all Mitsubishi vehicles, there’s a finance plan to suit your budget, the Lancer Hatchback 1.5 GS2 for example is available at just £199 per month, plus deposit*.
COUNTDOWN TO A GREAT DEAL:
5 years servicing and breakdown cover
4 years 0% APR typical finance
3 years warranty
2 years road fund licence
1 great deal
*AVAILABLE ON ALL LANCER HATCHBACK MODELS -
City Motor Holdings Limited,
Posted on 20 Jan 2010
one of the largest family owned dealer groups in the South, is celebrating the launch of City Mitsubishi to the Group.
The opening of City Mitsubishi is another step in the company’s impressive expansion this year which has also seen City Skoda come to Houndmills Autoplaza in Basingstoke, joining the already established City Honda as well as the re-branding of the Peugeot and Citroen businesses as City Peugeot & City Citroen. Plus the opening of City Renault in Reading and Newbury, to add strength to an already successful brand, a brand that is synonymous with great value and excellent customer service. City Motor Holdings intend to continue to operate their Ford businesses under the historic ‘Gowrings’ name; Gowrings Ford of Basingstoke, Gowrings Ford of Newbury and Gowrings Ford of Reading, with all the other dealerships in the group operating under the ‘City’ name.
Since the first launch of City Mitsubishi, the response from customers has been overwhelming a company spokesperson said “We are delighted with the level of enquiries that we are getting, it has far surpassed our expectations and really does prove what an exciting range of vehicles Mitsubishi can offer, with something to suit everyone from family cars like the established Colt and Grandis to 4 wheel drives - the much loved Shogun and L200 pick up, to the ultimate high performance car, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. It is a really exciting time for us. We have just launched our new website www.citymitsubishi.co.uk making it even easier to view our group stock, book a test drive or a service, the whole team is raring to go”.
City Mitsubsihi has been appointed as a main dealer for new cars, Mitsubishi Approved used cars, Motability accredited, has a Fleet and Local Business Centre, Main Dealer Servicing and Parts distribution as well as a full accessories counter, think Mitsubishi - think City Mitsubishi at Houndmills Autoplaza in Basingstoke. The Service Department offer Mitsubishi Main Dealer Servicing from only £99 and half price MOT testing plus a FREE Winter check to prepare your vehicle for the coming colder months. You can even book online from www.citymitsubishi.co.uk by selecting the aftersales option from the menu.
There is a collection and delivery service from home or work making it even easier to bring your car in for servicing or repair and courtesy cars available to reserve - simply mention this when booking. City Mitsubishi is now open for business at Houndmills Autoplaza, Aldermaston Road South, Basingstoke RG21 6YL. Visit our new website www.citymitsubishi.co.uk email info@citymitsubishi.co.uk or telephone 01256 480360 to book your test drive or 01256 480350 to book a service today.
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A Century of Safety from Ford Dealers
Posted on 18 Dec 2009
Ford has been part of British life for over a century, and next year marks the 100th anniversary of Ford’s dealer network. Ever since the Model T, Ford has been incorporating safety technology into its vehicles. For National Road Safety Week, we take a look at this commitment to protect.
In 1908 the first Model T Ford went on sale in Britain, making the convenience of car ownership affordable to more motorists. This evergreen car stayed in British production until 1927, and in this year Ford took a major stride as the first manufacturer to fit non-shatter ‘safety glass’ to its windscreens and speedometers – 10 years before this was required by law.
For the next 30 years car development was focused on comfort, efficiency and reliability. By 1935 Ford was selling the Model Y – the only four-seater family car that any manufacturer has sold in Britain for £100. After World War 2 and the booming economy of the 1950s cars came within reach of the majority, and as roads became busier and accidents more common Ford began fitting seat belts as an option from 1955.
The fitting of front seat belts became law in 1967, but only in 1983 did it become mandatory for them to be worn, by which time inertia reel technology had made them universally more comfortable and effective.
Increasing the efficiency of seatbelts still further, in 1993 Ford introduced its ‘anti-submarine’ seat design across its vehicle range, helping to stop drivers and passengers get pulled beneath their belts and reducing injuries. Just a year later and Ford fitted airbags as standard across its model range.
Since 1997 the EuroNCAP crash test has rated vehicles' occupant and pedestrian protection in the event of an accident. In addition to increased protection, it has opened the way for new technologies such as Ford’s ESP system, which dramatically reduces the chance of skidding and debuted on the top-of-the-range Ford Focus when it launched in 1998 – and which became standard equipment on all Focus models in 2009.
Andrew Howard, Head of Road Safety at the AA, says: “The increasing emphasis on the safety of children and adults, both inside and outside the car, has arguably become the defining feature of their design. The industry standards are rising each year, but it is important to remember that nobody is invulnerable and ensuring that cars are well maintained will go a long way towards reducing preventable accidents.”
Andy Barratt, Ford of Britain customer service director, added: “As we approach the 100th anniversary of Ford’s dealer network, the contribution made by our vehicles to road safety through that time is huge. With the onset of winter, customers should drive according to the conditions in cars with clean service and maintenance records.”
Referring to Ford’s range of servicing options, Andy Barratt said: “We have a range of options for owners of any aged vehicles to enjoy cost effective and convenient servicing with their local Ford dealer. "Ford Protect Service Assure" is a new tailored monthly payment plan and the £99 Ford Value Service, for cars that are three years old and upwards, includes 12 months free AA European roadside assistance.”
GOWRINGS FORD TARGETS YOUNGER DRIVERS DURING NATIONAL ROAD SAFETY WEEK
Posted on 18 Dec 2009
Gowrings Ford is backing Ford’s commitment to road safety by highlighting how young drivers should maintain their cars.
Working with the AA, Ford's roadside assistance partner, Gowrings Ford has outlined key ways to address potential hazards. “Young drivers are more at risk of getting into precarious situations,” said Nic Warwick, Group Aftersales Manager . “Pressures on young people's finances can mean skimping on essential servicing, care and maintenance. This can be dangerous, especially as their vehicles are likely to be older.”
Gowrings Ford highlighted the need for owners of older vehicles to maintain services schedules as they would with a brand new car. “We are aware that people run their cars to a budget and in the current climate that budget may have been trimmed,” said Nic Warwick. Gowrings Ford offers free tyre inspections to our customers – and Ford has introduced its £99 Value Service for vehicles over three years old to help ensure that customers don't ‘slip the net’ and drive cars not fit for purpose.
“For just £99 cars receive a value service and inspection of all consumable items such as wiper blades, wiring, hoses and exhausts. It extends to the transmission, brakes and running gear and even includes details such as dashboard illumination. Included in Ford's £99 Value Service is up to one year of European Roadside Assistance cover. This is available until the end of 2009 and customers receive the roadside assistance cover for either 12 months or until their next service (whichever occurs first).”
For National Road Safety Week, the AA researched its principal area of concern - tyres. “The one component connected car to the road are its tyres and 45 per cent of UK motorists don’t know the minimum legal tread depth for tyres – which is a total of nearly 17 million people,” said Andrew Howard, the AA’s head of road safety. “To drive safely, you need the right tyres in good condition, as they affect the steering, braking and acceleration of your vehicle – particularly at this time of year. On a wet road, worn tyres could mean needing up to 70 per cent more braking distance.”
Latest figures show that 2 per cent of all fatal accidents were caused by illegal, defective or under-inflated tyres, which has brought about a crackdown on ensuring that tyres are compliant with the law.
“It is a legal requirement to ensure that the tread on your tyres has not worn below 1.6mm, that there is no mixing of radial or cross-ply tyres and that tyres are correctly inflated without any structural damage,” said Andrew Howard. “Any one of these faults not only endangers the driver, passengers and other road users, but can also incur substantial fines and points on your licence –all more reasons to check your tyres regularly.”
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City Honda gain 3rd award for customer satisfaction in 2009
Posted on 20 Jan 2010
Honda (UK) is very proud of their reputation for excellent customer service, which they have built up over many years.
Honda’s dedication to customer service has seen them achieve 2nd position in the 2009 JD Power Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Survey, and they continue to strive to improve.
Since 2005 Honda has invested in a team of dedicated staff to call a sample of customers who visit Honda dealerships either to buy cars or have their current cars serviced and ask them about the level of service received.
This is much more than a measurement programme; Honda and their dealers listen to individual customer comments and then act on them to ensure that Honda delivers a really great experience.
The results from this programme, called SpeakBack has shown that some dealers are really making great strides forward. City Honda has shown outstanding performance in their area and Honda is proud to give them one of only 26 Quarter 3 awards for customer excellence available across the country.
A City Honda spokesperson said: “This award means a lot to all of us, everyone has worked really hard to always deliver on the promises we make to our customers. I am very proud of all the team here at City Honda and we are looking to consolidate on this improvement and be even better in the future.
These awards are just part of a whole new initiative to further improve the service Honda and their dealers give to customers. Their target is to ensure that our customers receive the best customer experience in town. This is a big challenge with the Honda team benchmarking, and setting their sites on, the levels of customer service offered by companies such as John Lewis, Waitrose and Apple Computers.
Michael Doyle, Manager - Customer Understanding, Honda (UK) said: "We're very pleased to see {dealer name} pick up this award for outstanding achievement in customer satisfaction. What they have shown is that they work consistently to improve their customer’s experience, and go to great lengths to meet the needs of people in {area}. Long may their hard work, attitude and commitment to excellent customer experiences continue."
Images and Other Honda press material can be downloaded from the Honda (UK) media website at www.hondauk-media.co.uk
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Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announces all-new Compact Crossover - Game Changer
Posted on 2 Nov 2009
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announces today the forthcoming introduction of its all-new on-road Compact Crossover, to be retailed first in Japan from February 2010 onwards.
Click here for full story and pictures
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http://www.newspress.co.uk/LINKS/58977mit/index.html -
MITSUBISHI i MiEV WINS 'ELECTRIC VEHICLE OF THE YEAR 2009' AT THE GREENFLEET AWARDS
Posted on 6 Oct 2009
The all-electric Mitsubishi i MiEV city car scooped Electric Vehicle of the Year sponsored by EDF Energy at the GreenFleet awards ceremony, on 1st October at the Guildhall, London.
Click here for full story and pictures
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THE UK POLICE CHARGE AHEAD WITH MITSUBISHI MOTORS’ ALL-ELECTRIC i MiEV CITY CAR
Posted on 5 Oct 2009
The all-electric i MiEV city car is now helping Police Forces across the UK to crack down on crime whilst cracking down on CO2 emissions.
Click here for full story and pictures
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ALL-ELECTRIC i MiEV CITY CAR TO PLAY PROMINENT ROLE IN GOVERNMENT’S £25 MILLION ‘REAL WORLD’ TRIALS
Posted on 25 June 2009
• Twenty-five of the first fifty all-electric Mitsubishi i MiEV city cars will go onto the Government’s trial in November 2009
The all-electric Mitsubishi i MiEV city car is set to play a prominent role in one of the Government’s recently announced Ultra Low Carbon Vehicle Demonstrator projects being run by the Technology Strategy Board. The Mitsubishi will take part in the West Midlands’ CABLED (Coventry and Birmingham Low Emission Demonstrators) consortium, which includes industry, council, academic and power organisations, and is led by design and engineering consultant, Arup.1
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ECO-DESIGN CHAMPION OLIVER HEATH TEAMS UP WITH THE MITSUBISHI i MiEV
Posted on 05 June 2009
• TV presenter and eco-design champion, Oliver Heath, finds his perfect match for the Revolve Eco-Rally with the Mitsubishi i MiEV.
Revolve Eco-Rally 2009, Monday 8th June – departs Brighton’s Palace Pier, 10 AM, arrives London City Hall, 2.45 PM
Mitsubishi Motors has announced that Oliver Heath – TV presenter and eco-design champion – is to drive the design icon all-electric i MiEV at the Revolve Eco-Rally on Monday 8th June.
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POLITICIAN, ENVIRONMENTALIST AND MEDIA COMMENTATOR ZAC GOLDSMITH TEAMS UP WITH THE MITSUBISHI COLT CLEARTEC
Posted on 05 June 2009
• Revolve Eco-Rally 2009, Monday 8th June – departs Brighton’s Palace Pier, 10 AM, arrives London City Hall, 2.45 PM
Mitsubishi Motors has announced that Zac Goldsmith – Conservative Party politician, media commentator and environmentalist – is to drive the low CO2 Colt ClearTec at the Revolve Eco-Rally on Monday 8th June.
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L200 WINS ‘TOP TRUCK’ AWARD AT VAN FLEET WORLD HONOURS
Posted on 20 May 2009
Product innovation, specification, value, reliability and low running costs help secure another award for the Mitsubishi L200
Mitsubishi Motors UK today collected another prestigious Van Fleet World Award for its L200 pick-up truck, the fourth in a row proving that it’s still a very firm favourite with journalists and end users alike. For many years the L200 has led the way with its innovation, styling, specification and go-anywhere on- and off-road abilities.
John Kendall, Van Fleet World’s Editor remarked that, “The latest L200 was launched three years ago, introducing a new 2.5-litre 136PS common rail DI-D diesel, and a radical design departure. Mitsubishi Motors is the only manufacturer to have shifted significantly from the house brick school of pick-up design, adopting a more rounded and aerodynamic shape than its rivals.”
He went on to say that, “The interior keeps up the exterior design trend with a dashboard that would look quite at home in a car, while providing space for a digital tachograph, vital if used for towing. Mitsubishi’s in-house conversion facility means the company can fit the L200 with any equipment needed for the job too.”
Van Fleet World certainly put the Mitsubishi truck through its paces in a series of tough tests including multiple driving conditions, as well as gathering feedback across a spectrum of end-users.
Lance Bradley, Mitsubishi’s Managing Director, said that, “The L200 is of key importance to us. Whereas some manufacturers may spend five percent of their time thinking about their pick-up, we often employ over 25 percent of our time making sure every last detail is right: specification, value for money, running costs and residual values. This one model accounts for over 30 percent of our sales, so it’s well worth the investment of our time.”
Collecting the award for Mitsubishi Motors UK, Kate Woodward, Manager of Corporate Sales stated, “This vehicle is remarkable and goes from strength to strength for us. We are keeping an even keel with the L200 and it continues to sell in good numbers, even when others around us are determined to take short-term actions.”
Come and test drive the range at City Mitsubishi, Houndmills Autoplaza, Basingstoke 01256 480360 email:enquiries@citymitubishi.co.uk
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Press Release for Dealer Recognition Awards
Posted on 19 May 2009
City Honda wins Customer Service Award.
Honda (UK) is very proud of their reputation for excellent customer service, which they have built up over many years. Since 2005 Honda has invested in a team of dedicated staff to call almost all their customers who visit Honda dealerships either to buy cars or have their current cars serviced and ask them about the level of service received.
This is much more than a measurement programme; Honda and their dealers listen to individual customer comments and then act on them to ensure that Honda delivers a really great experience.
The results from this programme, called SpeakBack has shown that some dealers are really making great strides forward. City Honda has shown outstanding performance in their area and Honda is proud to give them one of only 22 awards for customer excellence available across the country.
Phil Bell, City Honda Sales Manager says: “This award means a lot to all of us, everyone has worked really hard to always deliver on the promises we make to our customers. I am very proud of all the team here at City Honda and we are looking to consolidate on this improvement and be even better in the future.
These awards are just part of a whole new initiative to further improve the service Honda and their dealers give to customers. Their target is to ensure that our customers receive the best customer experience in town. This is a big challenge with the Honda team benchmarking, and setting their sites on, the levels of customer service offered by companies such as John Lewis, Waitrose and Apple Computers.
Michael Doyle, Manager - Customer Understanding, Honda (UK) said: "We're very pleased to see City Honda pick up this award for outstanding achievement in customer satisfaction. What they have shown is that they work consistently to improve their customer’s experience, and go to great lengths to meet the needs of people in Basingstoke. Long may their hard work, attitude and commitment to excellent customer experiences continue."
Images and Other Honda press material can be downloaded from the Honda (UK) media website at www.hondauk-media.co.uk
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Aftersales Customer Service Challenge
Posted on 18 May 2009
First Quarter Winner.
"Michelle Good receiving a bottle of Champagne From Clive Lewis for being top of the aftersales customer service challenge for the first quarter 2009. Michelle works at Newbury Ford and attained a score of 96% in the period”.
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City Honda
Posted on 26 Feb 2009
This is the all-new Honda Insight, a more affordable hybrid family car concept that arrives at City Honda in March 2009 and take the fight directly to Toyota's Prius.
The new Insight is certain to be more successful than its predecessor. Honda officials have confirmed that it will be priced "significantly lower" than any other hybrid car on the market.
Prices start at around £15,000, meaning that the Insight should appeal to those who have been unwilling to pay the premium for the £18,000 Toyota Prius. As a result Honda believes it can attain massive global sales of 200,000 units per year with this model.
Takeo Fukui, president of Honda, said he believes the new Insight will "break new ground by providing an affordable hybrid to an expanded number of customers craving great fuel economy and great value".
Some of the styling touches are shared with the hydrogen fuel cell-powered FCX Clarity, but the Insight uses a new and improved version of Honda's IMA hybrid drive.
This is likely to mate a revised version of the 113bhp, 1.4-litre iVTEC engine with an ultra-efficient hybrid powertrain. We should expect CO2 emissions of around 80g/km and fuel economy in excess of 80mpg.
The new Insight won't use more modern lithium-ion batteries though, because Honda still has major doubts about their reliability and safety. But using more conventional nickel metal hydride units will help cut costs.
Up until now, Honda's hybrid strategy had been to fit hybrid systems to normal production models.
But the Insight is the first in a family of bespoke hybrids. It's based on a new platform, which the sportier CR-Z - previewed in concept form at the 2007 Tokyo motor show - is likely to share. Within the next three years, an incredibly efficient Jazz hybrid is also likely to be launched.
For more information on the Honda Insight register your interest
email: insight@city-honda.co.uk -
City Mitsubishi - Has arrived at Houndmills Autoplaza
Posted on 26 Feb 2009
Test drive the exciting Mitsubishi range at City Mitsubishi
The new Mitsubishi dealership in Basingstoke is now open!
City Mitsubishi is a welcome addition to Houndmills Autoplaza, complementing the existing main dealerships, offering more choice and more value and making it THE place to go for your next car; 500 cars - 5 main Dealers - 5 acre site
Mitsubishi is a very respected brand within the UK market with a range of vehicles to suit all needs and all pockets complete with the famous Japanese reliability. The number one selling Mitsubishi vehicle in the UK in recent years has been the L200 pick-up (79,608 units sold between 1998 and 2007). The new L200 drives forward the success of Mitsubishi's dominance of the pick-up segment in the UK, sustaining the retail share of the outgoing L200, at an impressive 35.6% in 2007.
In the last couple of years Mitsubishi has launched three new major vehicles; the new Outlander, revised Shogun and the "i" city car. 2008 saw the launch of the new Lancer, Lancer Sportback and the iconic Lancer Evolution X. If your preference is for a smaller car why not try the newly re-vamped Mitsubishi Colt or the low emissions Clear Tec.
General Manager Chris Baker comments 'I am really excited to be bringing Mitsubishi back to Basingstoke, it is a great brand and we are looking forward to meeting lots of new customers'.
City Mitsubishi can offer a full Sales, Service and Parts operation. The service department can undertake all servicing and warranty work and can service cars which are on the Mitsubishi Service Plan, using only Mitsubishi-trained technicians and guaranteed genuine Mitsubishi parts. Keep it local with City Mitsubishi.
Come and test drive the range at City Mitsubishi, Houndmills Autoplaza, Basingstoke 01256 480360 email:enquiries@citymitubishi.co.uk
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Focus RS - is on sale now for 4 months only!
Posted on 23 Feb 2009
The new Focus RS: you'll either love it .or really, really love it.
Based on the new Focus ST, beneath the athletic exterior lies a formidable power unit and advanced racing technology.
A wider track, turbocharged 305PS engine and advanced suspension mean it will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds, with its performance more than matching those stunning looks. Ford kinetic Design shapes its dynamic exterior, and the exclusive 'Ultimate' green coachwork, updates the classic 1970s Ford Le Mans Green - contrasting brilliantly with black detailing to produce an eye-catching, contemporary look.
With a staggering 300bhp, this is the fastest, most powerful front wheel drive, family car Ford has ever built. It's 2.5-litre five cylinder turbocharged engine produces an awe inspiring 440Nm of torque, and will rev to a impressive 7,050rpm. Capable of sprinting from 0-62mph in just 5.9seconds, the car is also capable of a staggering 165mph.
The newcomer is heavy though, tipping the scales at 1,467kg, yet this doesn't seem to have affected fuel economy, which is claimed to be 30.5mpg. CO2 emissions place the model in Band G - with the car emitting 225g/co2 per kilometer. The figures have all been released today, as Ford prepares to luanch its hotly anticipated model in March. The spiritual successor to the bewinged Escort Cosworth, the new Focus RS gets an individual new look. Up front, there's a gloss black grille, plus circular spotlights and bonnet air intakes, while the rear gets a spoiler inspired by Ford's world rally contender and a diffuser with twin exhaust pipes.
Completing the arrangement are 19-inch multispoke alloys wrapped in low-profile tyres. Inside, the RS is fitted with Recaro seats with body-coloured detailing, carbon fibre trim on the centre console and a brushed aluminium gearlever.
The New Focus RS is available from Gowrings at £25,995 and is available for only 4 months from the beginning of February 2009. This is a limited edition car with only 2,000 units being produced for the whole UK market so you will need to be fast to register your interest.
To view more information or to book a test drive click here
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New Ford KA arrives at Gowrings
Posted on 09 Jan 2009
Come to Gowrings to see for yourself the new style Ford KA
The original Ka caused quite a stir when it first appeared on roads - and new Ka is no exception. Our kinetic Design philosophy has already got glowing reviews from the motoring press. Funky, friendly and fantastic to drive, the new Ka sets a new standard for small cars.
Sweeping lines, chunky proportions and new colours perfectly capture the new Ka's personality outside.And it's just as eye-catching inside. A flowing upper instrument panel, two-tone seats and a striking centre console are finished in bold contrasts and expressive colours. It's deceptively spacious and easily carries four adults with plenty of clever and convenient stowage.And for the first time, the new Ka has a choice of engines: a 1.2 litre 69 PS Duratec petrol engine or a 1.3 litre 75 PS Duratorq TDCi turbodiesel.
To view more information or to book a test drive click here
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Winners announced from August 2008 'Engine' newsletter
Posted on 14 Oct 2008
Winners announced from the competition that was featured in August 2008 'Engine' newsletter.
Congratulations to all our winners. Look out for competitions in future editions of our 'Engine' newsletter.
Gowrings of Newbury - £100 Camp Hopson voucher goes to...
Mrs Jean Chamberlain from Newbury (pictured right receiving her voucher from Craig McGifford who is the Business manager at Gowrings of Newbury).
Gowrings of Reading - £100 Oracle Shopping voucher goes to...
Mrs S J Potten from Reading
Houndmills Autoplaza (Gowrings of Basingstoke) £100 Festival Place voucher goes to...
Kevan Paige from Basingstoke
This newsletter is sent to customers who are on our database, if you would like to receive a copy please email: info@gowringsford.co.uk
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New Ford Fiesta available for test drive now at Gowrings Ford
Posted on 18 Sep 2008
The all new Ford Fiesta is finally here at Gowrings come into the showroom to see for yourself the stunning make-over that one of the UK's best loved cars has had.
Every inch of the all new Fiesta has experienced a dramatic redesign. With sparkling accents and high quality details at its core, it's like stepping into the pages of a fashion magazine the moment you get behind the wheel.
From its sculpted, sleek new body to its bold, futuristic interior, the stunning all new Fiesta has been created with the discerning modern driver and their lifestyle in mind. A small car with big car technology - the latest technical innovations allow you to listen to your MP3 and even wirelessly connect to your phone, all without taking your hands off the wheel.
To view more information or to book a test drive click here