Tag Archives: car

Celebrities, Royalty and Olympians Gather at Exclusive Launch of New Range Rover

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Iconic British car-maker Land Rover reveals their new model to the world via a dramatic event in London.

A star-studded guest list of rock stars, royalty, celebrities & Olympians gathered in West London to celebrate the global debut of the All-New Range Rover – the fourth generation of the iconic Range Rover line.

Rock legend Mark Knopfler entertained an audience of almost 500 VIP guests – including Olympians Zara Phillips and Greg Rutherford, as well as Sir Ranulph Fiennes, model David Gandy, and comedian Jimmy Carr – at the exclusive launch event held at The Royal Ballet School in Richmond, London.

The world’s first SUV with a lightweight all-aluminium body structure, the All-New Range Rover is the ultimate luxury SUV, following the innovative spirit of the original design from over 40 years ago.

With order books now officially open and sales scheduled to start in late 2012, the all-new Range Rover will be introduced in 170 markets worldwide.

Designed and engineered at Land Rover’s development centres in the UK, the new Range Rover will be produced in a state-of-the-art new low-energy manufacturing facility at Solihull, UK. Over £370million has been invested in the Solihull plant to create the world’s largest aluminium body shop.

Buying a Car?

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1 in 4 used cars* are revealed to have finance owing against them, making it the biggest risk to used car buyers today. Now shoppers can avoid the danger with the help of a new vehicle history check service which includes finance data – carstatuscheck.co.uk.

Following on from the successful launch of the Car Status Check app on iTunes and Google Play, vehicle information experts HPI have now launched the service online, which provides three levels of protection, allowing used car buyers to choose the level of protection they need, at a price to suit them.

To get an instant picture of a vehicle’s past; users simply tap in the vehicle registration number (VRM) at carstatuscheck.co.uk to immediately get basic details, such as vehicle make, model and year of manufacture for free. The user then decides how much information they want to buy on their next used vehicle.

Buyers can purchase the ultimate peace of mind with the Platinum Car Status Check for just £9.99, which provides a full history of the vehicle, including if it has been stolen, declared a write-off by an insurer or has outstanding finance registered against it. In addition to this data, the Platinum check is supported with a Guarantee of £10,000 should any data be inaccurate or incomplete.

For those who want the full picture of a vehicle’s history without the Guarantee, the Gold level check is offered for £7.99, which provides a full history check and includes a finance check as part of the service. “We recognise that more cars than ever are bought on credit. If shoppers buy a car that they later find out is on outstanding finance, they stand to lose both the vehicle and the money they have paid for it,” comments a spokesperson from Car Status Check. “This is because the finance company may be the legal owner and have the right to reclaim it.”

Finally, for used car buyers who need to count every penny, but still want an idea of a vehicle’s history the Silver level Car Status Check is offered for £4.99, which provides vital information, including if a car is currently recorded by the police as being stolen, has been written-off by an insurer or it is at risk of being sold illegally.

All Car Status Check customers receive a report for them to download and keep for reference. This confirms if the car is ‘clear’ or not, and includes a CO2 Certificate giving emission ratings, fuel and Vehicle Excise Duty costs.

The spokesperson concludes, “The Car Status Check provides history check information for people on the move. Consumers are offered a choice on the level of vehicle data they need, with price points to match. Knowing the full history of a vehicle is crucial when buying a car, and with all the information available in just 90 seconds – used car buyers are a just a click away from potentially saving themselves from an expensive mistake.”

Scavenger Hunting in LA? Yes, Please.

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This post brought to you by Kia Rio. All opinions are 100% mine.

Here at Frost Magazine we love having fun and doing things that are a bit different. Which is why when we came across the Kia Rio Scavenger Hunt we thought it just might be the coolest thing EVER. The Reason: LA, celebrity and a scavenger hunt. What could be more fun or original than that? It's a good question. The prize was meeting a celebrity and you even got to bring your best friend and meet singer Christina Milian.

Personally I would love to do the Kio Rio Scavenger Hunt, it seems like a blast. I reckon going to Rodeo Drive and counting the palm trees would be the most difficult task. The challenge is done in a 2012 Kia Rio 5-door car. It not only looks good but it has a bluetooth system and an USB jack. It also has rear camera display and navigation. Navigation is really something I would need! Though it's not just a car, it's a stunning piece of technology. it has UVO Technology by Microsoft infotainment system.  There is also air conditioning and four speakers. Heaven for motoring fans.

During the scavenger hunt the contestants went to LA's most famous landmarks including: The Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, Amoeba Records, Rodeo Drive, Pink’s Hot Dogs and The Roosevelt Hotel. A fun slice of Hollywood.

Watch the video below and give us your thoughts.

<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4MtnMAMEviY?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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When is a bargain not a bargain?

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The AA has revealed the results of a survey warning buyers to beware of vehicles with something to hide

A new survey from AA Car Data Check reveals that nearly 50%* of those asked would be drawn in by a car for sale if was advertised at a considerably lower price than its market value. The AA is warning that buyers should never be tempted by vehicles advertised for less than 70% of their market price, as a suspicious bargain could turn out to be a clone or worse, leaving the buyer severely out of pocket. Always conduct a vehicle history check to avoid the risk of buying a banger and wasting potentially thousands of pounds.

Worryingly, the survey of buyers of an AA Car Data Check found that more than 1 in 10 of them would be interested in a car priced a lot less than its market value. A further 34% would be interested in, but cautious of, a car priced at half the market value. However, a car with a low price could be hiding a dodgy past, as no genuine seller would want to lose out on a good profit from selling their vehicle. The AA urges buyers to always do their research and find out the car’s market value as a benchmark before parting with any cash.

“It’s easy to be tempted by a vehicle with a rock bottom price, but buyers need to think about it from the seller’s perspective – would they sell a car for a third of its value?” says Amanda Moore of the AA. “Most cars masquerading as a bargain have something to hide. We urge buyers to conduct a vehicle history check to protect themselves from the risk of buying a vehicle that could be stolen, cloned, on outstanding finance or an insurance write-off.”

Stolen or cloned?

Many people are unaware that if they unwittingly buy a vehicle that is later revealed as stolen, they stand to lose the car and the money they paid for it when it is returned to the actual owner. A cloned vehicle is one that has been stolen and given a new identity.

The AA advises buyers to: always do a history check and view the vehicle at the registered keeper’s address, as shown on the V5C. Buyers should also check that the VIN/chassis numbers match each other.

Outstanding finance

Buying a vehicle that’s still on outstanding finance could see the unsuspecting buyer lose the vehicle and their cash. In this case, the vehicle actually belongs to the finance company, who could reclaim it at any time.

An AA Car Data Check can confirm whether a vehicle is on outstanding finance. Don’t take the risk; get it checked before you buy.

Insurance Write-off

When a vehicle is in an accident it can be declared an insurance ‘write-off’ or total loss. While some damaged cars can be safely repaired and returned to the road, others will only be fit for scrap.

Using data from the Motor Insurance Anti Fraud and Theft Register (MIAFTR), the AA Car Data Check can help buyers spot the difference between a bargain and a potential death trap on wheels. Advice from the AA is not to be taken in by shiny paintwork – just because they can’t see damage it doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Get an AA Car Data Check before purchase to be sure.

“If a bargain looks too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t take the risk, instead get an AA Car Data Check and walk away if it turns out to have something to hide,” concludes Moore “The AA Car Data Check offers an easy and quick way for customers to discover the facts before they buy. And the AA’s top tips provide used car buyers with the basics to look out for, to help them avoid buying a stolen vehicle and giving their hard-earned cash to car fraudsters.”

75% of Brits don’t check car’s engine oil

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· Three-quarters of UK motorists don’t know how to check their car’s oil – a vital element in basic vehicle maintenance

· Half of drivers don’t even know why oil is used; majority unaware of damage caused by lack of lubrication

· Improved fuel economy and reduced engine wear proven from using quality synthetic motor oil

· Save Fuel With Mobil 1 offer sees Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 five-litre packs offered at selected Esso service stations with £10 discount

A staggering three out of four Brits don’t know how to check the oil in their car, according to new research from Mobil 1. More worryingly still, almost half of the drivers questioned were oblivious as to why oil is even used in their vehicle’s engines.

The research also found 94% of motorists were unaware that using the correct oil can significantly prolong the life of their engine, as well as potentially improve fuel economy. All of which means that at a time when British car owners are feeling the pinch like never before, they could be driving blindly towards expensive engine problems in the future.

Mobil 1 commissioned the survey in order to gain insight into motorists’ habits, specifically in the areas of engine maintenance and servicing. The study discovered that although as a nation Britons are typically on the lookout for ways to save money, they are significantly less savvy when it comes to understanding how to cut their motoring costs.

“It’s clear from this research that drivers are largely unaware of the benefits of using synthetic motor oil – and in some cases people don’t even have a basic understanding of the fundamental role played by engine lubrication,” said Dan McGoldrick, Field Marketing Advisor UK, Nordic and Benelux for ExxonMobil Lubricants & Specialities, makers of Mobil 1. “Using the right oil for your engine can potentially improve fuel economy, reduce engine wear and save lots of expense in the long run. Our aim is to help make drivers aware that checking oil is essential for keeping cars running smoothly and efficiently.”

Expertly developed to help prolong engine life and optimise efficiency, Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 is designed to help provide exceptional cleaning power, wear protection and overall performance. The oil has the potential to improve fuel economy and save you money.

Mobil 1 is currently helping consumers to stay on top of engine maintenance by offering a Save Fuel With Mobil 1 £10-off price when purchasing five-litre packs of Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 in selected Esso service stations. By taking advantage of this offer, drivers can save at the point of purchase, and further down the line thanks to potential enhanced fuel economy. The offer price means packs can be purchased for £44.99 (down from £54.99). Further details on how to Save Fuel With Mobil 1 can be found on www.mobil1.co.uk where Mobil’s online product selector, ‘Which oil’, makes it easy for consumers to identify the correct engine oil to optimise their vehicle performance by simply inserting the registration number of their car.

All About the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK Facelift

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There is no longer any delineation between diverse kinds of bumpers with particular off-road and on-road packages. Below the recently designed headlamps, the entire models give LED driving lights at daytime in a chrome clasp as standard. The radiator grille with central star and two slats goes after the design idiom of all existing passenger automobile models. The slats are decorated silver, along with chrome inserts as an alternative. In addition part of the model facelift, the design makers have developed latest wheels in size 17-inch (43.2 cm), 19-inch (48.3 cm) and 20-inch (50.8 cm) that are accessible in a variety of paint finishes or by means of a high-sheen finish. An aerodynamically optimized 17-inch (43.2 cm) wheel is accessible probably with auto loan for the first time.

The GLK SUV received a total internal renovation: the dashboard for instance provides a broad trim in aluminum or alternatively in wood spans the whole width of the dashboard. The additional trim elements in silver shadow and new round vents also grasp the eye. A high-end color display is alternatively accessible for the appliance cluster. A new upholstery colors, three-spoke sports steering wheel, and indirect ambient lighting plus seat designs featuring LED fibre-optic technology that is obtainable on the GLK for the first time, additionally improve the feel-good environment inside the automobile.

The GLK provides wonderful driving dynamics, admirable driving security and excellent ride comfort. Besides the versions of rear-wheel drive, the 4MATIC models together with an everlasting all-wheel drive reveal an intrepid courage even in the most unfavorable situations both off-road and on-road. Similar to all-terrain and all SUV motor vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, the GLK is a pure-bred, without hesitation off-road operator. In the meantime, the forefather of all contemporary Mercedes-Benz SUVs that provided its name to the GLK is at this time in its model year of 33rd and is also experiencing a comprehensive facelift.

The external lends the GLK additional poise. The body unites classic elements of all geographic condition motor vehicles with the design saying of the existing Mercedes-Benz saloons. Expansive surfaces and the smooth-surfaced, stringent lines, volume-emphasizing rear and front regions synchronize with the trademark GLK body features that are characteristic of functional all geographic condition vehicles. These comprise slender roof pillars, a steep windscreen, short overhangs, the taut roof line and the upright front end. The design of the body is not a fashionable end in itself. Otherwise, it applies the benefits typical off all geographic condition motor vehicles to the compact SUV class. Proficient ATV-specific characteristics for example departure and approach angle and ground clearance allow off-road schemes at any time. The good all-round visibility and the carefully designed body together with the seat position augment appropriateness for everyday use and give for comfortable driving.

The headlamps symbolize an innovative version of the signature of the design of Mercedes lamp. On the fundamental model together with headlamps of reflection-type, a chrome torch characteristic spans the two reflectors. On models showing the ILS (Intelligent Light System), the headlamp includes a reflector, the torch and the projection unit with LED cables made from fiber-optic for the position light. Moreover, the turn signal indicators comprises individual LEDs are situated. The roof rails in an entirely new design are specifically striking in the side view.

Kathleen Hubert is a blogger who writes on a variety of different sites. Check out more of her work at autoloan.org.

Patrick Dempsey to Race Lola in the American Le Mans Series 2012

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Dr Dreamy, Grey’s Anatomy’ star Patrick Dempsey is to race a Lola LMP2 car in the American Le Mans Series 2012. The multi-talented actor is branching out.

Dempsey Racing has confirmed plans to race in the American Le Mans Series 2012 with a Lola B12/80 LMP2 coupe chassis. Team Principal Patrick Dempsey – star of ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and a number of Hollywood titles, will race the Huntingdon designed and built LMP2 coupe.

The team is gearing up for a possible debut at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in May before competing in more races in this year’s American Le Mans Series. Dempsey and his team partners Joe Foster (team principal/driver) and Henri Richard (Silicon Tech Racing) have stated it is also their intention to race at the 2013 Le Mans 24 Hours. The Lola B12/80 LMP2 coupe will be powered by Judd.

Dempsey, who established the Dempsey Racing team in 2003 has a real passion for the sport and has participated in many racing series, including ALMS and Grand-Am. The partnership between Dempsey Racing and Lola is an exciting time for the British company, who have achieved a number of accolades in recent years including taking the 2011 ALMS manufacturers title and finishing as the highest placed petrol powered car at Le Mans last year.

On the partnership with Lola, Patrick Dempsey said, “It is no secret that I really enjoyed my experience at Le Mans in 2009. Lola is a famous name throughout the world of racing. I kind of knew what they did at Indy and in sports cars from when I was a kid. I am relishing driving this brand new LMP2 design”.

Lola Executive Chairman, Martin Birrane said, “We welcome Dempsey Racing in to the Lola LMP family. Patrick, Joe and the team have shown in recent years that they are a professional and ambitious team but also one that recognises they need expertise and cutting edge technology and so have chosen to partner with Lola who will provide the very latest LMP2 design and engineering know-how for their programme. It has been a pleasure to work with the Dempsey team to make this announcement possible and we appreciate and recognise their methodical approach to racing”.

Bring Down The Cost of Motoring

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Saving money on fuel is a priority according to research by Mobil 1

  • Cash strapped Brits look to save money on motoring but actually lose out where it matters most: in the engine
  • Research marks launch of Mobil 1 ESP 0W-30, a fully synthetic car engine oil approved for use by BMW and Mercedes-Benz
  • Drivers understand engine oil helps their vehicle but do not know it can help them save money on driving costs
  • New Mobil 1 ESP 0W-30 is designed specifically with potential fuel savings and efficiency in mind

 

LONDON,  2012 – Checking oil ranked highest in the activities we’re willing to do on our own, over and above a number of everyday activities. New research commissioned by Mobil 1 has found that more Brits are confident checking the oil in their car than making beans on toast.

 

This research comes as Mobil 1 launch its latest synthetic car engine oil, Mobil 1 ESP 0W-30, with BMW and Mercedes-Benz approval. The research also shows that Brits are increasingly looking to cut motoring costs as the economic climate gets tougher, with over a fifth of drivers cutting their mileage by as much as 2,500 miles each in 2011.

 

However, it also seems that drivers are missing out on other easy cost-cutting measures, unaware that basic actions such as keeping engine oil topped up can reduce overall motoring costs, as only 6% of respondents recognised that using the correct engine oil prolongs the life of an engine.

 

“It is great to see that as a nation we are confident with checking car oil and we are surprised to see it beat so many everyday activities in terms of consumer confidence” said Dan McGoldrick, Field Marketing Advisor UK, Nordic and Benelux for ExxonMobil Lubricants & Specialities, makers of Mobil 1. “Checking oil, especially in winter months, is essential to keep cars running smoothly, avoiding wear-and-tear and making sure your car runs as efficiently as possible – potentially saving you money on fuel and ensuring your motor is as confident on the road as you are in looking after it.”

Developed using the latest synthetic lubricant technology, Mobil 1 ESP 0W-30 has the potential to improve fuel economy whilst optimising engine protection. Expertly engineered to help prolong the life and maintain the efficiency of emission systems in both diesel and petrol powered vehicles, it has gained approval from Mercedes-Benz1 and BMW2 for a range of models.

 

 

Mobil 1 top tips for saving money and keeping your motor in peak condition:

 

  • Choose the right oil for your car.
    • Using the correct engine oil can potentially improve fuel efficiency, provide valuable engine protection, and reduce wear and tear.
    • Mobil 1’s online “Which Oil” product selector – found at www.mobil.co.uk – helps drivers find the correct engine oil to optimise their vehicle’s performance.
    • Simply insert the vehicle registration number and ‘Which Oil’ identifies the most appropriate engine oil.

 

  • Talk to your service representative about the “health” of your engine and the motor oil they use during maintenance checks.
    • Service representatives are your vehicle’s “doctor”, so don’t be afraid to ask questions about the benefits of different oils and how to keep an engine running smoothly.

 

  • Keep a 1 litre container of engine oil in the boot
    • Maintaining the proper level of engine oil and lubricant is essential to the protection and efficiency of a vehicle.
    • A one litre container of oil is a cost effective way of maintaining an engine between regular maintenance checks.